Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

Understanding the facts can reduce stress, open up options, and help you make confident decisions. Here are a few common myths and the truths you need to know. 

Myth: Completing the BC speculation and vacancy tax form is optional.

False! Completing the BC speculation and vacancy tax form is mandatory. You can: Fill it out online: https://www.etax.gov.bc.ca/SVT/_/  Call for assistance: 1-833-554-2323 (toll-free, 8 am to 8 pm)

NOTE: Tax Season will be here soon enough! Know key dates for filing  If you are filing a tax return on behalf of a family member or friend. You must add a representative account to your existing CRA account to manage and have access to someone else's online tax information.Once registered, you will get a RepID that you can share with a family member or friend, so they can authorize you as their representative. Representative authorization is available to anyone who does taxes for others (not just accountants) and it helps ensure security, accountability.  More tax information here.

Myth: You must always pay your property taxes annually.

False!  Many older adults in British Columbia qualify to defer property taxes. The Office of the Seniors Advocate B.C. encourages eligible homeowners (55+) to explore the Property Tax Deferment Program and take advantage of this option to help cover essentials. There are new updates in 2026 to be aware of. Check out the key details about the program on the BC Senior Advocate website. The program can provide meaningful financial relief,  freeing up over money for essential expenses. Under the program, the province pays your property taxes, with repayment typically occurring when the home is sold. The link below to the government website that shares more.  Contact the government with your questions about deferring your property taxes. Toll Free 1-888-355-2700

Myth: Reverse mortgages are always a bad idea.

False!  Reverse mortgages once had a poor reputation because early versions carried high fees and often included confusing terms. They sometimes used compounding interest, which could quickly reduce the home equity available to the homeowner, and were less regulated, leaving homeowners vulnerable if they didn’t fully understand the product. Today, reverse mortgages are safer, more transparent, regulated and for some homeowners, a practical way to access home equity while staying comfortably at home. Modern products typically use simple interest, have clearer terms, and provide more control. As with any financial decision, the key is understanding whether it fits your situation.

Having accurate information reduces stress, facts create options, and understanding your choices makes planning easier. As part of HELM’s 55 AND BETTER process, we connect our clients with likeminded professionals who can assist, including mortgage brokers, lawyers, accountants, and senior outreach people who can provide expert guidance. Video link here 

Exciting things are happening at HELM Seniors Real Estate Services! We welcomed photographer Jonnie Graham on site to capture every detail of a lovely executive townhouse coming to market! 

This 3 bedroom 3 bath duplex style townhome features the primary bedroom, ensuite and laundry on the main floor! There is a double garage, and the open concept kitchen leads to the lovely backyard with a large patio, just enough grass and garden and private access to riverfront trails!  Stay tuned for the full listing and more photos or contact me directly. 

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

Downsizing is one of those topics that is easy to avoid. Yet avoiding it often removes choice. The topic of downsizing rarely starts with a big moment. Yet when a big moment happens, that’s often when the conversation finally comes up and rushed decisions get made.

This is exactly why I created HELM’s 55 AND BETTER process. It supports individuals and families at whatever stage they are in, with a customized plan that brings clarity and calm. Not easy. I never promise easy. But absolutely easier, clearer, and more respectful. These are never just one conversation. Ongoing discussions allow you to better understand the wishes of your parents, your loved ones, and yourself. The more time you take to plan, the more options you will have.

Sometimes the decision is to age in place, and the question becomes how to do that successfully. When it’s too late to plan, choices become limited. So what’s the plan?

Planning also means having important documents in place, whether you have heirs or not. In British Columbia, that often includes a Power of Attorney for financial decisions, naming an Executor for your estate, and preparing Advance Care Planning documents or a Representation Agreement that outlines your health care wishes. These conversations can feel uncomfortable, yet they are one of the greatest gifts you can leave to the people who may need to step in, or to the professionals who may be asked to help if family is not nearby.

You don’t always say it out loud. Partly because it feels early. Partly because it’s hard to explain or you’re not sure where to start. And sometimes there’s hope that it will all just work itself out.

You may be asking yourself if it’s time for your mom and dad to move from their detached home to a condo or retirement living. Or, as an older adult yourself, you may be asking that same question.

And underneath it all is the most important question: whose decision is it? Ideally, it belongs to the person living in the home and living the life. Thoughtful planning helps ensure their wishes guide the process. Without a plan, however, decisions often fall to adult children or others during stressful moments, which can create uncertainty, conflict, and choices that may not reflect what was truly wanted.

Planning also means having important documents in place, whether you have heirs or not. Resources like Advance Care Planning Canada and Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre offer guidance on advance care planning, representation agreements, and documenting your wishes. These conversations can feel uncomfortable, yet they are one of the greatest gifts you can leave to the people who may need to step in. When clients are ready, I can also connect them with trusted legal professionals who can help formalize these plans.Planning is not about rushing change. It is about preserving choice, dignity, and peace of mind. Whether the path forward is staying put, rightsizing, or simply preparing for what may come, having conversations early allows decisions to unfold with clarity rather than urgency. That, more than anything, is what helps people move forward with confidence and respect.

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

I recently attended a Purple Angels Memory Cafe gathering led by Myrna Norman, and I left feeling inspired by the warmth, connection, and genuine sense of community in the room.

For those unfamiliar, Purple Angels Memory Cafe offers community support for individuals living with dementia and for the people who care about them. It is a relaxed, welcoming environment with free refreshments, engaging activities, and meaningful conversation. Care partners can take a breath, connect with others who understand, and access support in a safe and confidential setting.

The Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows location is guided by Myrna, whom I am fortunate to know through the seniors network and I’m excited to now be a brand new board member. Diagnosed with dementia in 2011, Myrna continues to be a powerful advocate, educator, and community builder. Her leadership, grounded in lived experience, creates a space where people can come together to play games, share stories, learn, and simply enjoy being together.

I’m excited to be involved with the upcoming Game On: Play, Think, Connect event on March 30 at the Maple Ridge Public Library from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This free, activity-filled afternoon will include brain games and interactive activities focused on mind health. Light lunch and snacks will be provided. I’ll be there! Please come say hello and have some fun! Everyone is welcome!