This photo is of my dad, taken last summer. 95, healthy, and prefers to age in place, he can. One of my sisters and her husband live with him in our original family home in North Vancouver which he built in1953. With the support of our entire family with visits and meal drop-offs and check-ins, it works great and we are all grateful it is working so well. Deciding to move or age in place is a life-changing decision. Aging in place is a viable option for many, who are healthy mentally and physically.  As a Realtor, I see too many times seniors having to make rushed, reactive decisions regarding moving as they waited too long to either outfit their home or get help with daily tasks like gardening they once did happily and with ease. I’ve created HELM, a  guide with a few questions, and insights. I know there are many health factors involved, and there aren't always easy solutions. There are answers and resources to help. Please ask me.  HELM is a start, a few easy questions to consider to help guide you in the direction, that is right for you and your family, to make proactive decisions versus reactive ones. My goal is to provide facts so you and your family can take action happily and with confidence. Whether you decide to age in place and simply need trusted resources from gardeners to handy persons, or do want to move, whatever is right for you, I’m happy to be your guide. I look forward to hearing from you.  Janet 604 730 2600

HELM, 

H Home. Do you still love your home? How easy is it for you to accomplish daily activities in your home? You have considered moving yet feel you need to declutter and that is holding you back somewhat? What do I do with our antiques and fine dishes, as no family member wants them?

E Expense Have you looked at the costs to move or stay? Sometimes the cost to hire a gardener or hand person equals the cost of what one would pay in monthly strata fees. Property taxes and the cost of heating, cooling, and maintaining a single-family home can be weighed against the costs of moving to a new home. Can your home be outfitted so you can age in place, for example, move the washer and dryer upstairs? Renovate a bathroom to have a walk-in shower instead of a tub? Renovate to have the main bedroom on the ground level floor?

L Location is staying in the exact location important or necessary to you? Have you considered the benefits of moving closer to your children and grandchildren important to you? 

M  Move Where would we go? What are the options? Condo? Townhome? Assisted living? With our children? There are many options, which is right for you?

To move or not to move! Once you know what you want your future to look like, to age in place or find a new home to ensure you achieve your goals becomes crystal clear.

Have more questions, just ask! I’m happy to answer them. 

604 730 2600