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 Has it been revoked?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!

“With borrowing costs now firmly on the decline, buyers have started to show up in numbers after somewhat of a hiatus – and this renewed strength is now clearly visible in the more recent monthly data."Andrew Lis, GVR director of economics and data analytics. Which brings us to the question, “should I sell in January or wait for the Spring market?” The answer might surprise you! Winter buyers are typically driven by necessity rather than seasonality. They often face job relocations, lease expirations, or family changes, making them more focused on purchasing sooner than later. With fewer listings in winter, properties stand out, and can receive more online views and the inquiries tend to be serious. This scarcity can lead to faster sales, better prices, and less stress compared to the competitive spring market when your home is competing with all the other homes. Winter is ideal for highlighting energy efficiency, insulation quality, and heating systems. Warm staging touches, like throws, fire places turned on, cozy reading nooks, and soft lighting, can enhance a home’s comfort appeal during the winter. Selling in winter positions you as a strong Spring buyer, often with cash in hand compared to other buyers who may need financing. Winter offers a unique opportunity for a successful sale. Are you opposed to selling in the Winter? Call me directly and allow me to create a custom strategy to sell your home, including the cozy staging!