My dad, Elmer Helm!  I feel incredibly lucky to be his daughter. His strength, integrity, and steady presence have shaped so much of who I am. He has always led by example through quiet kindness, sense of humour, and a deep commitment to family and his community. The older I get, the more I appreciate the foundation he gave me and the values he continues to live by. There is something special about reflecting on all the ways a father’s influence shows up in your life long after childhood.
I'm grateful for my husband, whose love and dedication to our family are felt every day. Today I'm thinking of all fathers, grandfathers, great grandfathers, stepfathers, and father figures who show up in ways both big and small, often quietly, always meaningfully, and leave a lasting imprint on the hearts and lives of the people they love. And a special thought for those fathers no longer with us, carried in memories and missed especially today. Happy Father’s Day.

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

For many older adults, staying in their current home is the preferred choice. Home is familiar. It holds memories, connections to neighbours, and a sense of independence that can be difficult to let go of.

The good news is that staying in your current home is possible for many people. However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. What works well for one person may not work for another, and the key is making informed decisions before a crisis forces the conversation.

A home that suited your needs twenty years ago may not necessarily suit your needs today or in the years ahead. It is worth taking an honest look at how your living space functions in day-to-day life. Stairs that once felt effortless can become more challenging. Laundry on a lower level or upper floor can become a daily obstacle. Bathrooms may need updates to remain safe and accessible. Even routine tasks like yard work, snow removal, or general maintenance can slowly become more difficult to manage over time. These are often gradual changes, which is why they can be easy to overlook until they become pressing.

Many people are able to remain safely in their homes with some thoughtful adjustments. Simple changes such as improved lighting, grab bars in bathrooms, non-slip flooring, or lever-style door handles can make a significant difference. In other cases, more involved modifications like walk-in showers, ramps, stair lifts, or wider doorways may be considered. Some of these improvements are relatively low cost, while others require a larger investment, which is why planning ahead can reduce both stress and financial pressure later on.

Another important piece that is often overlooked is the network of support around you. Staying in your current home does not necessarily mean doing everything independently. It may include family members who can assist, friends or neighbours who check in regularly, or professional home support services that help with daily tasks. Transportation also becomes an important consideration if driving is no longer an option.

Daily living supports are another area worth thinking about early, rather than waiting until they are urgently needed. Medication management, for example, can become more complex over time, and services such as blister packaging, pharmacy delivery, or reminder systems can make things much easier. Grocery delivery, prepared meal services, and transportation or delivery options for prescriptions and essentials are becoming more common and accessible. Support with housekeeping, yard care, snow removal, and small household repairs can also take pressure off day-to-day living. There are even general support services or “jack of all trades” helpers who can assist with errands or small tasks that tend to accumulate. These services exist in both public and private sectors, but availability can vary, and waitlists are common, which is why timing matters.

One of the most common challenges is not the availability of help, but the delay in asking for it. Many people feel they are still managing well enough. They are still driving, still independent, still capable, and there can be a natural hesitation to ask for support. Sometimes there is embarrassment, or a belief that needing help means losing independence. The reality is that waiting too long can create more difficulty later. A sudden fall, a hospital visit, or a health change can shift everything quickly, and families and or friends are then left trying to piece together support in a moment of urgency rather than preparation.

This is why it can be so valuable to put support in place earlier, even in small ways. Neighbours can be part of this network, whether it is taking in garbage bins, offering occasional check-ins, or simply knowing who to call if something seems off. In some communities, informal systems or street captains help keep an eye on residents. People are often more willing to help than we assume, but they need to be asked and given clarity about how they can support.

It can also be helpful to try out services before they are urgently required. A trial period with a house cleaner, seasonal help in the garden, or occasional grocery delivery can make future transitions much smoother. Getting quotes for home support or care management services ahead of time can also provide clarity. Even small steps, like setting up pharmacy delivery or medication packaging early, can reduce stress later and create familiarity with systems you may rely on in the future.

Safety is another area where proactive changes make a difference. Installing grab bars before they are urgently needed, improving lighting in hallways and stairways, and removing simple trip hazards like loose rugs are small adjustments that can help prevent larger issues. Staying one step ahead often makes it easier to maintain independence for longer.

Cost is also an important consideration. Many people assume staying in their home is always the least expensive option, but that is not always the case. Home maintenance, property taxes, utilities, housekeeping, transportation, home care services, and future accessibility renovations can all add up over time. Looking at these costs realistically can help with long-term planning and reduce surprises.

Social connection is another factor that is often underestimated. A home can be physically suitable, but if it becomes isolating, it can have a significant impact on well-being. It is worth considering how often you interact with others, whether community activities are easily accessible, and whether you have opportunities to stay engaged and connected in your daily life.

For many people, staying in their current home is the right choice. With planning, support, and the right resources, it can be a safe and fulfilling option for years to come. For others, however, changing health needs, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, or increasing care requirements may eventually make staying in their current home unrealistic or unsafe. This is a deeply personal and significant decision, and there is no single right answer. That is exactly why planning ahead matters so much. When decisions are made early, there is more time to think clearly, explore options, and put the right supports in place without pressure or crisis driving the outcome.

The best decisions come from thoughtful conversations, honest reflection, and a willingness to adjust as needs change over time.

The goal is not simply to remain in a home for as long as possible. The goal is to live safely, comfortably, and with dignity in an environment that continues to meet your needs throughout life’s changes.

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

Hot weather can arrive quickly and often without much time to adjust, and many people are not fully acclimatized to sudden heat waves in BC. That rapid change is what often catches people off guard.

The good news is that heat-related health impacts are largely preventable with a bit of planning, awareness, and community support. Heat doesn’t affect everyone the same way, and some people may become unwell more quickly even in temperatures that seem manageable. As we age, the body may not regulate temperature as efficiently, and certain medications, health conditions, and mobility challenges can increase risk.

Local resources such as Fraser Health Authority and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority provide printable posters, practical heat safety tips, and up-to-date information on local cooling spaces and cooling centre locations that can be shared with neighbours, in lobbies, church halls, and community spaces.

One of the most effective and often overlooked ways to stay safe is a simple neighbourhood buddy system, where neighbours check in on each other, notice small changes like unopened blinds or uncollected mail, or make quick phone calls to those living alone. These small check-ins can make a significant difference because not everyone will ask for help even when they need it. Older adults living on their own, people with limited mobility, no access to air conditioning, or medications that affect hydration are especially at risk and may need extra support.

Preparation before heat arrives is key. Setting up a cool room with closed blinds and fans, stocking extra water and easy-to-prepare foods, ensuring cooling devices are working, and making a plan for check-ins can all help reduce stress when temperatures rise quickly. It is also helpful to know in advance where nearby cooling centres, libraries, shopping centres, and other air-conditioned public spaces are located so you can move to cooler environments if needed during extreme heat.

If you know an older adult who prefers receiving information in print rather than online, consider printing and sharing the letter-size information sheets provided by the health authorities so they have easy access to the guidance when they need it. Heat related illness is mostly preventable, and the simplest actions including staying cool, staying hydrated, and checking in on one another are often the most powerful.

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

One of the most common things I hear from clients and families is, "We don't know where to start."

Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or helping a loved one navigate a change, exploring retirement living options can feel overwhelming. There are many choices, unfamiliar terminology, and often a lot of emotions tied to decisions about home, independence, health, and the future.

This overview is intended to be a starting point for learning and conversation. It is not an exhaustive guide, and every person's situation is unique and very personal. This is simply a place to start, so that you and your family can begin exploring possibilities, asking questions, and planning with greater confidence.

For many of my clients, remaining in their current home is a very realistic option. With the right planning and support, services such as housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, home maintenance, and personal care can often be brought into the home.

For others, a move may be desired or necessary to better support their lifestyle, health, social connections, or future care needs. There is no right or wrong choice. The key is understanding the available options before a decision becomes urgent or as I call it, a crisis move. Being informed early allows you and your family to explore possibilities, ask questions, compare choices, and make decisions with greater confidence and less stress.

Whether the goal is to age in your current home or explore retirement living options, understanding the choices available is a good first step toward creating a plan that reflects your individual needs, preferences, and goals.

In BC, it is helpful to understand the difference between private pay and publicly funded options. Private retirement residences are typically paid directly by the resident and offer lifestyle amenities. Publicly subsidized assisted living and long term care homes are accessed through a regional health authority assessment and are generally income based, with residents contributing a portion of their after tax income toward their care. For an in depth look and explanation of each, the link to government of BC website shares more. This is simply a snapshot. 

Within independent living, options can also include age restricted 55+ rental housing, including some non-profit or subsidized rental buildings, as well as ownership options such as condominiums, townhomes, and strata communities. These are generally focused on independent living with limited or no services beyond building maintenance and shared amenities. 

Independent Living

Ideal for older adults who can live on their own yet want to give up the hassles of home maintenance and yard work. This option focuses on lifestyle, social connection, and community amenities while supporting an independent way of living. These communities often appeal to people who may need a little assistance to remain independent, as well as those who simply want to spend less time managing household chores and more time enjoying their lifestyle.

Assisted Living

In British Columbia, assisted living provides additional support with activities of daily living when needed. This may include medication management, assistance with bathing and dressing, or other personal care services. Support may be provided by staff within the residence or through outside agencies or health authority that visit on a scheduled basis. Many communities offer different levels of care that are adjusted based on changing needs over time.

Residential Care or Long Term Care

Often referred to as nursing care, complex care, or extended care, these licensed residences provide professional nursing and medical care for individuals with more complex physical or cognitive health needs. Care is available around the clock and is designed to support residents who require ongoing assistance and supervision.

Memory Care

Specialized, secure environments for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These programs provide structured cognitive activities, and 24-hour supervision to ensure safety and wellbeing.

Understanding these distinctions is an important first step, yet finding the right residence goes beyond simply choosing a category. There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to retirement living. The best choice is the one that aligns with an individual's current needs, future goals, lifestyle preferences, and financial situation. The earlier you begin exploring options, the more choices you will have and the more confident you can feel in your decision.  It reminds me of a couple I worked with after being referred to me by friends I had previously worked with. The couple had decided it was time to right size and move to an independent living community and were absolutely certain they knew where they wanted to go.  When I asked what they liked most about the residence and what stood out during their tour, they surprised me by saying they had never actually visited. Several friends lived there, had positive things to say, and that was enough for them to feel confident in their choice.

I encouraged them to take a tour before making any decisions. They did, and while they liked many aspects of the community, they also realized there were things they hadn’t considered. A couple of weeks later, they toured a second residence. Armed with questions from our conversations and follow up discussions with their family, they looked at each community through a more informed lens. In the end, they chose the second residence. It wasn’t because one community was better than the other. It simply felt like a better fit for their lifestyle, preferred amenities, and location. Most importantly, it was a decision they made based on their own experience rather than someone else’s recommendation.

If they had waited and were faced with a crisis move brought on by a change in health or circumstances, they likely would have moved into the first community because that is what everyone thought they wanted. Instead, by taking the time to tour and explore their options proactively, they were able to make an informed decision on their own terms.This is why I encourage older adults and their families to tour communities long before a move is needed. A tour is about more than seeing a suite or reviewing amenities. It is about experiencing the atmosphere, meeting people, asking questions, and noticing how a place feels.

When a crisis move happens, decisions often need to be made quickly and options can feel limited. Touring ahead of time creates space for clarity. It allows older adults to compare communities thoughtfully, reduce pressure, and stay at the centre of the decision. Most importantly, it ensures the choice is guided by personal experience, not assumptions, not urgency, and not someone else’s preference, but by what truly feels like home.

If you or someone you care about is beginning to explore retirement living options, HELM can help guide the process with education, resources, trusted connections, and compassionate support every step of the way. Whether you are just starting your research, comparing communities, or ready to tour residences, you do not have to navigate the journey alone. Call me directly at 604-730-2600. 

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

As July 2 approaches, property taxes come due, and the Home Owner Grant (HOG) must be claimed if eligible. These small yet important steps are often missed when families are focused on more immediate responsibilities, especially when preparing a home for sale or managing affairs. When helping a parent with their affairs or preparing a home for sale, most people focus on the obvious tasks such as legal paperwork, decluttering, and arranging the sale. However, there are several practical items that are frequently overlooked and can have financial implications if missed.

One of the first is the Home Owners Grant. (HOG) and the additional Additional Senior Grant! Depending on the circumstances, the grant may still be available and is worth confirming has been claimed. For many seniors in British Columbia, the additional senior grant can provide meaningful savings on annual property taxes.

Property taxes themselves require careful attention. Many older adults choose to defer their property taxes through the provincial deferment program. Note it is not a grant, it is a loan program. Recent substantial changes have been made to the program, so it now requires a much closer look before continuing or applying. While this can be a valuable tool, it is important to understand that deferred taxes are not written off. It is also important to understand that what once made sense may not always be the best choice today. Changes in interest rates, financial circumstances, and estate planning goals can all affect whether tax deferment remains appropriate. Before continuing or applying for a deferment, it is wise to review the decision with a financial advisor to ensure it still aligns with the broader financial picture.

If the home becomes vacant, utilities should generally remain active. Electricity, heating, and water services are often necessary to protect the property and meet insurance requirements. Most standard homeowner policies contain restrictions once a property becomes vacant. If no one is living in the home, contact the insurance company to discuss vacancy coverage requirements. In many cases, the insurer will require a vacant home policy and may request that the water be turned off while the property is unoccupied and frequent visits.

Families are often concerned about paying a full year's property taxes when they expect to sell the home. If the annual property taxes have already been paid and the property sells partway through the year, the buyer reimburses the seller for the portion covering the period after completion. This adjustment is handled by the lawyer or notary during conveyancing and forms part of the normal closing process.

Remembering these practical considerations early can help prevent unexpected expenses and reduce stress during an already busy time.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, my clients are making more proactive moves sooner rather than later. Their new home choices are less about square footage and more about ease, connection, and day-to-day living. It’s about a lifestyle change that better fits how they want to live now.
Ambleside is one of those unique neighbourhoods where you can walk to the beach, grab a coffee, meet friends for dinner, and still feel tucked into a community, a great example of easy lifestyle living. This Sunday June 7, from 2-4 you’re invited to an open house at 112 1363 Clyde Avenue, a lovely example of that lifestyle! This updated 3 bed, 2 bath townhome offers 970 sq ft of bright, functional living. A private patio and garden give you space to enjoy a quiet morning coffee or relax at the end of the day. Main level includes an open concept kitchen, dining, and living space, plus a bedroom and powder room. Upstairs you’ll find a spacious primary bedroom, full bath, in suite laundry, and a sun filled south facing third bedroom. Pet friendly. 1 parking plus storage included. Feel free to call me for more details. 604 730 2600 or email me janet@janethelm.com

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

There should be no surprises at any stage of a transaction! Part of HELM's 55 AND BETTER™ approach is simple: stay one step ahead and communicate what is going to happen next to our clients. One of the resources we share with clients is a simple information sheet called “When You Meet with Your Lawyer or Notary - What to Expect.”
When clients and families understand what will appear on their Statement of Adjustments ahead of time, the final appointment becomes simpler, calmer, and more predictable.
It also helps family members supporting a parent or loved one feel informed and confident going into the process. With the right preparation, it becomes a straightforward next step in a well managed transition.
Detailed Typically includes:
1. Sale Price
2. Property Taxes
Prorated to completion date, including credits or deductions depending on payment status and any Property Tax Deferment Program balance.
This is especially important when a completion occurs before the July 2 tax deadline
3. Home Owner Grant / Senior Grant
applied where eligible
4. Strata Fees (if applicable)
5. Real Estate Commission

6. Legal / Notary Fees
Professional fees, registration costs, and disbursements.
7. Other Adjustments
Utilities, tenant adjustments (if applicable) deposits held in trust.
Net proceeds of sale.
If you’d ever like a walkthrough of what your specific Statement of Adjustments will look like before you sign, it can always be reviewed in advance so everything feels clear ahead of time. With the right preparation, meeting with a lawyer or notary becomes a straightforward next step rather than an overwhelming one.