Deciding when to move to a retirement community is a deeply personal decision, and it’s important to consider several factors before making that change. For many, one of the first signs it might be time is when health or mobility becomes more of a challenge. Tasks that were once routine, like cooking, cleaning, yard work, and even grocery shopping, may start to feel overwhelming. These everyday responsibilities can add stress, making the idea of a retirement community more appealing, where assistance is readily available for daily tasks.

As we age, we often find ourselves with more space than we actually need. Extra rooms that were once full of activity may become unused, adding to the cost and effort of maintaining a larger home. If you’re finding that the upkeep of a big house, including property taxes, insurance, utilities, and repairs, is becoming more costly than it’s worth, it might be time to start considering other options.

It’s also helpful to think about your long-term needs. Being proactive and making decisions on your terms.  If you’ve been curious about retirement communities, their amenities, and the services they offer, it is worth taking a tour to see what’s available in your area. Some communities offer a variety of options, from independent living to more supportive care, allowing you to choose a lifestyle that suits your needs now and into the future. A key consideration for many is wanting to avoid the hassle of multiple moves.

For others, the idea of moving to strata living can be a deterrent. If you’re not interested in the responsibilities and potential conflicts that come with living in a strata-managed building, this might be another reason to consider a retirement community. Many communities offer a level of independence without the worries of shared management or maintenance responsibilities.

Maintenance, both big and small, is something that often becomes a constant concern for homeowners as they age. From needing regular repairs to keeping up with the lawn, home maintenance can start to feel like an ongoing burden. Leaving maintenance issues can reduce home’s value when selling. If you’re in a home that’s not adaptable for aging in place, or if you simply know that making it work long term will be difficult, it may be time to start thinking about a move.

Finally, it’s worth considering the experiences of friends or family who have waited too long to make a decision. You’ve probably heard of last-minute moves, or worse, others end up having to step in and make decisions for them. These situations can be stressful and emotional, and from my experience it is better to act sooner rather than wait until a crisis move becomes mandatory.

Making the move is never an easy decision, yet asking yourself some questions early on, you can ensure that when the time comes, the move will be a positive one. Planning and preparation now can go a long way in ensuring your comfort and peace of mind for the years ahead. 

The Importance of Planning for a Safe and Happy Future

Many prefer the comfort and familiarity of their own home over the thought of moving into a retirement community or apartment. While aging in place may sound like the ideal solution, it requires careful planning and thoughtful consideration to ensure it is both a safe and fulfilling option.

Aging in place is more than just staying in the same house—it’s about continuing to live safely, and comfortably in an environment you know well and love. Yet the reality is that aging successfully in place is not always easy. It involves navigating health changes, making your home more accessible, and finding the right support system. There’s a lot more to consider if you want to make this work in the long term.

Take, for example, my dad. At 99, he is aging successfully in place, with the support of live-in help and community healthcare resources. It’s not always easy, and it requires constant monitoring, adjustments, and a solid plan in place. He’s fortunate to still be in great physical and mental health—he goes to the gym daily and plays golf when the weather permits. His experience shows that aging in place doesn’t necessarily mean giving up activities or independence—it just requires thoughtful management and a strong support system. That being said, even in his case, aging in place comes with a significant amount of work, and it requires a plan to ensure safety, health, and happiness.

What Does It Take to Age in Place? Aging in place isn’t something you can simply set up and forget. It requires careful planning and flexibility in several areas, all of which need to be addressed to make aging in place work successfully. Aging successfully in place may require home modifications, in-home healthcare services, or even hiring extra help for daily chores, meals, bathing, dressing, medicine management and home maintenance. For example, installing ramps, grab bars, and wider doorways, along with modifying bathrooms and laundry areas to be more accessible, will add an expense. It’s important to factor in these costs when deciding whether aging in place is a sustainable option in the long term. 

Another important question to ask is: can your home be adapted to meet your changing needs as you age? The good news is that many homes can be modified with a bit of creativity. I helped a couple who initially thought they would have to move out of their family home due to mobility issues. After meeting with them and learning about their family support system nearby, we came up with a plan to make it work. Working with a professional contractor, they transformed a large den into a primary suite on the main floor, moved the washer and dryer upstairs for easier access, and replaced the bathtub with a walk-in shower to prevent falls. They also had grab bars installed throughout the home to help with mobility and reduce fall risks. They can now live on one level, live in the home they love and enjoy their greenbelt private view. 

With family living just across the street, they found that trips to the grocery store, doctor’s appointments, and other errands became much easier to manage. While they knew they would need to hire professionals, like gardeners or handymen, for odd jobs in the future, these modifications allowed them to extend their plan to stay in their home for several more years. Their story is a good example of how aging in place can work if you have the right support system, modifications, and plan in place. If your home can be adapted to meet your needs, aging in place may be entirely possible. It’s also a good example of being proactive and asking for help before the help is needed. Proactive decisions are always better than reactive decisions. 

It’s also worth considering whether your home is within walking distance of amenities like grocery stores, doctors’ offices, or libraries. Many of my clients move to be closer to such conveniences, reducing the need for a car. This can be a significant factor when deciding if aging in place is practical.

One of the most important aspects of aging in place is having a strong support system. Whether it’s help with transportation, household tasks, medication management, or simply emotional support, having people you can rely on is essential. This is where family support becomes invaluable. Knowing that family members live nearby or are willing to help makes a world of difference in managing the challenges of aging in place. 

In addition to family, or if family lives out of town or not able to help, professional support can be a game-changer. There are many in-home care companies that will make personalized care plans to fit your specific needs. These care services might include help with daily activities like meal preparation, cleaning, companionship or personal care. The cost will depend on the level of care.  Think about the person’s safety, well-being, need for companionship, and overall quality of life. These factors contribute far more to a fulfilling aging experience than the price of care alone.Every individual’s situation is different, and aging in place is not the right decision for everyone. For those with more advanced health conditions, or those who cannot afford the necessary home modifications or care services, other options like assisted living might be a better fit. 

Having a plan B is also important. My dad has let us kids know his wishes if /when his ageing at home is no longer the best place and where he’d like to move. Ensuring The key to aging in place is planning ahead. It may involve modifying your home, arranging the necessary support systems, and ensuring that everything is in place to keep you safe and comfortable and happy!

The Canada Government Age in Place Check List and Guide is a good place to start to ensure you are ageing well in place and decide if it is right for you. 

A common misconception is that retirement communities are only for people who are too frail to care for themselves. Many people hesitate to make a move because of worries about the process, or because of outdated misconceptions about retirement residences and downsizing in general. Many have bad memories of visiting their parents or grandparents in “old folks homes.” The truth is, you probably have more options than you realize, and having the right guidance can help you navigate the next chapter. There are a variety of retirement residence options to choose from.

Moving to a new home when we’re younger often feels exciting. Yet when it comes to moving when older emotions can be more complicated. Leaving behind a home you’ve known for years, along with cherished belongings, can create a sense of loss. On top of that, the idea of perhaps needing help and adjusting to a new environment can feel overwhelming. These feelings are completely normal, and it’s important to acknowledge them as part of the process. However, by focusing on the benefits of the move, gathering the right information, and finding support, you can approach this move with greater confidence. 

If retirement community living is a consideration it doesn’t mean giving up your independence—it can be the opposite! Many people find that moving into a retirement community actually frees them from the burdens of home maintenance, leaving more time for relaxation and enjoyment and peace of mind.  With less space to keep tidy, no yard work to worry about, with everything taken care of,  one can enjoy your home without the daily upkeep and worry.

In a retirement community, you get to choose how you spend your time. You can stay as busy as you like, making new friends and participating in activities, or you can enjoy your private lifestyle, it’s your choice. And your friends and family are always welcome to visit, most communities have spacious dining areas where you can host gatherings without worrying about cooking or cleaning up afterward!

If you’re in good health and need little or no assistance with daily activities, an independent living community might be the right fit for you. These communities offer a safe, secure environment with ample amenities and social activities. Many independent living communities are located walking distance to shops and services, and your own secured parking spot. You have the freedom to live your life as you choose, with the added peace of mind that support is there when your needs change over time.

For those who need occasional assistance, independent supportive living or assisted living may be more appropriate. These communities provide extra help with daily activities like meals, medication, and personal care. There is also long-term care and memory care communities designed for individuals who require very specific care.

Is it ridiculous to think it’s too early to start planning? No! Let me share a story with you. I was referred (most of my clients are word of mouth and referral) to a couple in their early 80s who had lived in their home for over 40 years. They knew they needed to make some decisions—decluttering, dealing with an oil tank in the yard, and exploring their next steps. They had their eye on a lovely retirement community down the hill where many of their friends had moved. But since aging in place was still working for them, they always figured they’d “get around to going on a tour.” They did joke: “Janet, they’re going to take us out of here in a pine box.” Sound familiar? We’ve all heard it before. But let’s be real. That “pine box” is, most likely going to be an ambulance. According to Statistics Canada 85% of senior hospitalizations are due to a fall!  And a third of those individuals never return home. Instead, they might move in with family, transition to senior living, or face even tougher outcomes. And that’s just the reported falls!  I stayed in touch with this couple over a couple of years, providing information and resources—help for the oil tank, retirement community details, and check-ins. But nothing changed.

Then, one day, I got a call—from their son. His mother had fallen a month prior, and his father’s health was rapidly declining. Suddenly, they couldn’t live alone. The son, trying to do what was best, had arranged for them to move into a retirement community—two hours away, near him and his family.

When we all met at the family home, I saw exactly what you’d expect. Their son looked exhausted, juggling his parents’ situation, his own family, and his job. The parents? Overwhelmed. Angry. Decisions were being made for them, not by them. And to add to the stress, when the oil tank was finally removed, contamination was found, delaying the home sale for months. Their son had to handle it all, hoping he was making choices his parents would have wanted. Is it ridiculous to think this could have been avoided?  No! It’s not a matter of if something happens—it’s when. Planning ahead isn’t about losing independence. It’s about reducing stress, maintaining control, and ensuring that when the time comes, your wishes are honoured.  No one wants to make these decisions in the middle of a crisis. And no one wants to leave their family scrambling. A proactive plan is a gift—to yourself and to those who love you. So let’s not wait for a fall, a health scare, or an emergency to start the conversation.

Start now. Because having a Plan B isn’t about giving up. It’s about taking charge of your future.  I’m here to help. I am here to be your guide, trusted advisor through every step of the process. if you, a spouse or your parents are wondering if retirement living is for them, let’s talk! 

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, my Move Management System is designed to guide you through every step of this transition. You will receive a cost analysis to help you understand the financial aspects of selling your home, so you can choose the right retirement community within your budget. We can also look at the costs of maintaining your home if you decide to age in place versus the costs of moving, including the monthly expenses of a retirement community. Being clear about these numbers will help you make informed decisions about your future.

I am happy to introduce you to estate planners and lawyers who specialize in working with older adults and their families, ensuring you have trusted professionals by your side every step of the way.

From preparing your home for sale and managing the sale process to coordinating your move and settling into your new space, I am here to support you.

Looking for a specific community or type of care in Greater Vancouver?  Not sure where to start?  Call me! Part of my move management service is sharing the types of care and how to choose the right one for you and connecting you directly with key contacts when you arrange your tour and even accompanying you on tours if you prefer. Ask for HELM’s GUIDE TO RETIREMENT HOME CHECKLIST, questions to ask during the tour and questions to consider after the tour.  With a personalized plan, I promise I’ll be with you every step of the way to make the move easier and more manageable. 

Let’s work together to create a plan that fits your needs so you can embrace this next chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

Fraud is now the leading crime committed against seniors in Canada.
Think fraud won’t happen to you or your parents or older adults in your life? It may have already happened and they didn’t say anything because they are embarrassed or don’t want you to think they are not capable. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre estimates that only 5 to 10% of people report fraud. Remember anyone at any age can fall victim to a scam, they are so professional. Fraud targeting older adults is on the rise. And that’s a concern. Seniors are increasingly targeted by fraudsters because they often have substantial savings, are perceived as more trusting, answer the phone and door and may be less tech-savvy, making them vulnerable to scams like phishing emails, phone calls, and fake investment schemes, and or door to door canvassing, pretending to be service companies. The impact on victims, particularly older adults can be devastating emotionally and financially, wiping out savings in a blink of an eye! Even when Canadians realize they’ve been a victim of fraud, the scam may not be over. Fraudsters are now contacting their victims days after being confronted. They impersonate law enforcement, a lawyer or a government agency and offer to help get their money back for a fee. Fortunately, there are many simple steps you can take to help you and the older adults in your life safe. 

1. Be aware that fraudsters may pose as government or bank staff, family members, law enforcement or other trusted people. The phone number on the call display may even say the bank’s name!  Never give out money or sensitive information to a caller, by text or by email. If you’re not sure about something, call a family member, your financial advisor or your bank. Don’t panic. Simply hang up. Consider having call control added to your line. Let your phone go to voice mail. You can always call your friends and family back.

2. Never click on a link or download an attachment from an unknown source. Even if it looks to be legitimate, verify the sender before taking any action.

3. Never give personal information over the phone or at the door. 

4. Keep your information secure by using strong, unique passwords. 

5. When online, don’t enter login information or credit card details unless you are sure the site is legitimate. Red flags include poor grammar or spelling errors, a URL that doesn’t match the company’s main site or a lack of a security lock symbol in the address bar.

6. Social media provides fraudsters with a large pool of potential victims. Be mindful of the personal information you post online and take advantage of privacy settings.

7. Monitor financial activity: A financial institution will never send a courier to your door to collect an alleged fraudulent card. If you get a phone call like this, hang up, and follow up with your bank if you are still feeling unsure. Keep track of bank statements and credit reports for suspicious activity. 
   Stay connected to your finances and set up alerts for suspicious activity on your bank account and credit cards.

8. If you will be selling your property, soon, now’s a good time to get ready, and to make a plan for what to do with the money. Don’t leave large amount of money easily accessible. 

9. Never give a deposit for work that hasn’t started yet- unless you are absolutely sure they are a legitimate company. 

10. Don’t buy into anyone’s sense of urgency, “limited time offer” “in your neighbourhood only this week” are common trick sayings. 

11. If it sounds too good to be true (online deals including sporting event tickets, handy person jobs around the house, items for sale) it probably is! Trust your instincts, ask questions, do your research and be extra cautious.

12. Fraudsters are now contacting their victims days after being confronted. They impersonate law enforcement, a lawyer or a government agency and offer to help get their money back for a fee.

    All fraud and scams should be reported, even if you are embarrassed or feel the amount of money is too small to worry about. While you might not be able to get your money back, you can help stop the con artist from scamming other people. Regularly discuss potential scams and how to identify them with older family members. Adult children of parents, if your parents share they’ve been scammed, keep in mind, everyone makes mistakes. The scams are so professional these days. Stay calm and focus on fixing the damage.  Report all fraud and scams to your local police.  Share the fraud scams you hear about with friends when out in social gatherings. Talking about it will help bring awareness to the growing concern.

Common scams targeting seniors:

• Fraudsters have been calling victims from a phone number that appears to be a legitimate financial institution and claiming there has been irregular activity on their bank accounts. 

• Grandparent scams: Scammers posing as a grandchild in distress, requesting money urgently. 

• Medical fraud: Fake calls or letters claiming to be from medical companies, requesting personal information or payments. 

• Investment scams: High-pressure sales tactics promising large returns on dubious investments. 

• Romance scams: Online profiles used to build relationships with seniors, then asking for money. 

• Tech support scams: Scammers posing as tech support, offering to fix computer issues for a fee.

• Door to door canvasing or handy fix it companies. 

• Services offering senior discounts 

A list of scams can be found on the Canada government’s anti fraud web page  https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm The RCMP website shares new scams to be aware of. 

Please note, if you or your parents or older adults in your family need resources, reliable people including estate planners, lawyers, to roofers, furnace, appliance, to electrical and gardeners fence fixes, please ask me- I’m happy to share my likeminded professional resources. 

Taking a moment to thank you, my clients and often your families for placing your trust in me. It’s an honour to be recognized with the MLS Medallion Club award, and it’s a wonderful reminder of how much I truly love what I do. This recognition, from the Medallion Club report, highlights the Top 10 and Top 1% out of nearly 15,000 Realtors® in the Greater Vancouver area. Thank you to you my clients and your families. While the recognition is based on the number of transactions, I believe it’s not about how much business I do, yet how I do it. It is a huge responsibility to be your trusted advisor and guide and I'm grateful for your trust.

Thank you again for allowing me to be part of your real estate and rightsizing  journey.

February is Heart Month!, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health, and it’s the ideal opportunity to reflect on how we can take better care of our hearts. The heart is at the core of everything we do—it impacts both our physical and mental well-being. Alongside eating a balanced diet and making healthy lifestyle choices, staying active is one of the most important ways to keep your heart strong. Regular physical activity not only reduces stress but also helps fight depression, manage high blood pressure, and combat obesity—all of which benefit your heart in the long run.

Luckily, there are plenty of enjoyable and safe activities that can get your blood pumping, and many of them are social, too! A great way to start is by joining a walking or exercise group. Many communities offer accessible parks, gardens, and walking trails that are wheelchair-friendly, providing a chance to enjoy some fresh air while staying active. If you're looking for extra motivation, joining a group can be an excellent way to stay committed. Additionally, there are seated exercise programs designed for people of all abilities, so you don’t have to worry about whether you can keep up with a more intense routine.

If you're an animal lover, getting a pet can also be a great way to stay mobile. For instance, adopting a dog will naturally get you moving as you take it on walks, while playing with a cat or taking care of its needs like cleaning the litter box can help keep you active, moving and bending too. Beyond the physical benefits, pets offer a special kind of companionship, providing both emotional support and a reason to move throughout the day.

Incorporating playful activities into your routine can also make staying active more fun. Games like billiards or dancing, curling, golfing can help you get moving while socializing with others. Many senior centres offer these kinds of recreational programs, so check out local listings or your community directory to see what’s available. Ask me for a specific group or activity and I’m happy to connect you and or find the information for you.Staying engaged in social activities is key to both mental and physical health.

Getting fresh air, strolls on the seawall, park trails or around your block is easy, and free! Gardening is another natural and enjoyable way to get some exercise outside. It engages muscles and promotes strength while reducing stress and letting you connect with nature. Plus, there’s something very rewarding about watching the fruits of your labour grow, whether it’s flowers, vegetables, or herbs.

Remember, it’s the small steps that add up when it comes to heart health. Making movement (nicer word than exercise) a part of your daily life doesn’t have to mean intense workouts; it can simply be about finding ways to stay active in ways that feel good and fit your lifestyle. And, of course, regular visits to your doctor are important for keeping an eye on your heart health as you go.

The benefits of moving are easier than you might think—and February is a great time to start building those habits for a healthier heart!

Make sure to ask your doctor before starting any new program! 

First off, I’m not a lawyer, so this information is simply a guide and not intended to be used as legal advice. 

I understand that many people delay setting up a power of attorney due to worries about potential misuse or simply thinking they'll handle it later, but having one in place is a powerful way to protect your wishes and give you peace of mind.

A POA is a legal document that lets you give authority to another person to make financial and legal decisions for you. Your POA can be:

1. General: your POA is able to make financial and legal decisions for you.

2. Specific or Limited: your POA can only make the financial and legal decisions you set out in the POA, such as taking money out of your chequing account to pay your bills. You can also limit the length of time the POA is valid. Note: A General, Specific or Limited POA ends when you become mentally incapable unless the POA contains an enduring clause.

3. Enduring: is a POA that specifically permits the attorney to continue to act for you if you later become incapable of managing your own affairs.

If your POA covers real estate it must be prepared according to the rules outlined in the Land Title Act of British Columbia. Given the complexity of real estate transactions and the legal implications of selling property under POA, it is highly recommended to consult with a lawyer experienced in British Columbia real estate law. Legal counsel will guide you through the process, help draft any necessary documents, and ensure that all legal requirements are met.  Realtors must be aware of the challenges that exist when representing someone who claims to have the legal right to act on behalf of a property owner on the basis of a POA. Is the POA valid? Was it properly executed? Does it empower the attorney to deal with real estate property? Has it expired? Has it been revoked? Has it been terminated through the death of the grantor? These are all questions that need to be answered before listing a home for sale! 

How to choose a POA? Most people select their spouse, a relative, or a close friend.
Select someone you trust to represent your best interests, not just the closest person to you. Your POA should be nearby for emergencies, calm under pressure, and ideally have some understanding of medical processes. Ensure they agree to take on this responsibility willingly.

Below are two links you may find of value and provide some peace of mind. National Initiative for Care of the Elderly information on Power of Attorney and the  Government of Canada site, what every older adult should know about Power of Attorneys.

Having a POA is part of your long term planning, “having your ducks in a row” as my mom used to say!  If you have any questions regarding this topic or getting your ducks in a row to provide peace of mind, just ask! I’m always just a phone call away. Janet 

Today was my mom’s birthday, and as always, I find myself reflecting on her wisdom, her quiet yet fierce strength, and the way she showed up—unwavering—for her husband, her children, and her friends. On this special day, something happened that felt like a sign—while arriving to host my, “rightsizing for seniors” seminar at the West Vancouver Senior Centre, I found a dime. It was such a timely reminder of my mom’s influence. Her quiet presence with advice were always spot on, even if I didn't realize it until later. "Go get 'em, and have fun a long the way, and don’t forget, get a good haircut, tweeze your eyebrows, wear good shoes, and quality clothing!"
That advice always made me smile, yet today, it felt like a gentle nudge from her spirit, reminding me to stay true to myself just like she did.
The seminar was a success, seeing people get their questions answered, and learning they have so many options was rewarding to be a part of. Today’s true reward was the quiet, powerful presence of my mom’s spirit. Thank you, Mom, for everything you taught me. Happy Birthday in Heaven Mama xo your daughter

Happy 99th Birthday, Dad! On Monday, his gym pals kicked off the birthday celebrations with well-wishes during their workouts. The party didn’t stop there—at McDonald’s, their regular after gym hangout, a reserved table decked out with balloons and cupcakes awaited him, thanks to a few thoughtful friends many of them who play and played tennis, pickleball, golf and even some who have cast their lines off the riverbanks together! Today, we visited his heart specialist for a check-up, and the nurse practitioner exclaimed, “his lungs sound like that of a 40-year-old!"
Dad, you’re the ultimate inspiration—proof that staying active, positive, and grateful can keep us young at heart, and aging successfully!

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) guiding older adults navigate the often overwhelming process of downsizing or as I prefer to say, “ rightsizing,” is far more than just a transaction. It’s deeply personal, emotional, and sometimes, a bit scary.  I have the privilege of walking alongside many wonderful people through this process, and one recent journey stands out—N and P.

I first met N and P at one of my open houses. We briefly discussed downsizing and how major a life change it can be, and that the decision to move, or not, is a huge decision to make and for some a significant hurdle to tackle. After some light-hearted conversations and a few chuckles, we arranged a time to meet at their home to continue the conversation. 

At our scheduled meeting, I could sense they were grappling with the idea of leaving a house they had lived in for decades, filled with memories and comfort. Yet they knew making a proactive decision to move to a more user friendly home without stairs, easy access and walkability was being proactive instead of possibly down the road, a mandatory or what I call a crisis move, which is a completely different experience when one has to move instead of wants to move! True to my approach, I didn’t rush in with suggestions. Instead, I listened. I simply gave them space to share their thoughts, any concerns and answer their questions. I wanted to better understand their needs then provide them with information and options, and also to offer reassurance that I was there to help in whatever way they needed. I invited them to one of my free seminars on rightsizing- as felt the topics I share, would shed some light, which they attended and I believe did shed some light. 

Over the year, I worked closely with N and P, guiding them at their pace. We began by tackling the daunting task of decluttering and paring down their belongings, which is often one of the most difficult steps for anyone, and especially for those who’ve lived in their homes for many years.  Regarding selling their home we discussed options, weighed the pros and cons of selling first versus buying first, and I explained the potential impacts of each decision. Ultimately, they chose to buy first, then sell—an option that was right for them. Together we found their new home after viewing several homes. Their choice- a home in the same neighbourhood, walking distance to their favourite coffee shop, the library, and the familiar mountain views.  It is a home they can grow into in this next chapter of their lives, one that offers more accessibility and comfort. Next was to prepare their existing home to sell for top dollar. A young family now gets to call the home, theirs and will create their own lovely memories. 

I received a lovely Google Review from N and P. Reading their words of appreciation was a heartfelt reminder of why I do what I do. Their kind review spoke of how grateful they were for my support, my patience, and my dedication to making their rightsizing journey as smooth as possible. It was an emotional reminder of how deeply rewarding it is to be a trusted guide for others during such a significant transition.

Rightsizing is a journey and isn’t just about finding a new home—it’s about helping people navigate change in a way that honours their needs, their emotions, and their future. It’s about understanding that this process is not just transactional,  yet for some can be very personal. 

For N and P, the journey was one that ultimately led them to a new chapter in their lives, in a home that fits their needs and gives them peace of mind. It wasn’t always easy, but together, we made it easier, with a few laughs along the way. They made decisions on their terms and timeline not anyone else’s.

If you or someone you know is considering rightsizing, please reach out. I’d be honoured to help guide them, just as I did with N and P—one step at a time, with care, and expertise. 

1. What is a presale?
   A presale is purchased before construction is completed, allowing buyers to invest in property development early and sometimes customize interior finishes.
   

2. How does the deposit structure work?
   Deposits typically range from 5-20% of the purchase price and are paid in instalments. These funds are held in trust until the property is completed.
   

3. What are the benefits of buying a presale?
   Buyers gain access to modern, brand-new homes with potential for value appreciation before completion and flexibility to save while construction is ongoing. Allows you time to organize your move, pare down belongings slowly and on a specific timeline. 

4. Full 2-5-10 warranty coverage.
   

5. What are the risks of buying a presale?
   Changes to the market conditions - the market drops.

6. Changes to the interest rate conditions, rate ends up being higher than expected.

7. You’re not buying something that is built yet, so your expectation of what it looks like might be different than the reality once you view it. Also there are unknowns as you may think you have a view, or green space in front of your home, yet only to find out a hydro box or post box or new construction of homes which now blocks your view.
   

8. What protections exist for buyers?
   Under local laws, buyers benefit from protections like a 7-day rescission period to review contracts, secure deposits, and ensure transparency through mandatory developer disclosures.
   

9. How is financing arranged for presale condos?
   Buyers pay deposits upfront and typically secure a mortgage closer to the completion date.
   

10. What should I review in a presale contract?
    Key items include deposit schedules, completion timelines, warranty details, assignment terms, and clauses regarding design changes. Contracts are written by the developers’ lawyers. Having a realtor represent you in the purchase and review your documents with a lawyer is highly recommended.
    Assignments are often allowed but depend on the developer’s terms. Review your contract to understand specific assignment conditions and fees.
    

11. How do GST and taxes apply?
    In addition to the property transfer tax, 5 % GST is charged on all new properties, including presales. Buyers may qualify for rebates based on the purchase price. Property taxes apply once ownership transfers. 
    

12. What happens if the project isn't completed?
    Deposits are secured in trust, and developers must adhere to regulations that protect buyers’ investments. If a project fails, funds are returned.
    

    Presale condos offer unique opportunities for homeowners and investors alike. If you’re considering a presale property, ask me for the unique opportunities coming up and available in your community. 

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) I hear this quite often, “Janet we want to sell, yet have a few updates to do first.” Part of HELM’s move management process is being here to guide you through the process of getting the best return on your investment. Before "you spend a dime" (as my mom used to say) on any updates, please call me first! Your neighbourhood, your home, the location, and your house are unique and the updates recommended for one home, might not be for another. We’ve all heard the disappointment when a seller invests in new appliances, only to hear they were replaced by the new owners! Most of the time, any updates don’t have to be big or costly—something as simple as switching out brass light switches for white ones like we did for a client can make a noticeable difference without the risk of over-investing. Ask HELM! Together, leverage our design experience combined with market expertise, and we’ll identify the updates (if any) that matter most saving you time and money ensuring your home still stands out from other homes. If updates are recommended we can share resources and like minded professionals, who will do the job on time and on budget. Ready to meet me and my crew and experience, “more than just a move?”  Call today!