As the Senior Outreach Partner for Polygon Gallery’s annual “Meet Me at the Gallery” Holiday Tea, I’m happy to invite you to this wonderful community event at the gallery. Join me, visitors, and other supporters for a festive time of connection, conversation, and inspiration including a curator-led tour of the new exhibition, Lee Miller: A Photographer at Work (1932–1945). Celebrate the season, share time with friends, and enjoy our vibrant arts community. Hope to see you there! The date is: December 3rd 10am -12pm. There is a convenient car drop off and pick up area, street parking, underground parking, and a bus stop just a few steps away.

Meet Me at The Gallery is a daytime art program dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors and friends in our community with monthly get-togethers inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions. Visitors are invited to drop-in on the first Wednesday of every month at 10:00 am to make new connections with art, and each other! A different activity will greet visitors every month, with social time to follow. Read about Meet Me At The Gallery in The North Shore News!  Advance registration is helpful, but walk-ins are always welcome. Plan your visit information. 

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

JUST SOLD! Celebrating another successful RIGHTSIZE with HELM - right time, right plan, right move! Spring often gets all the attention in real estate, yet Fall and Winter can actually be an ideal time to sell. With fewer homes on the market, your property stands out. Buyers looking during these seasons tend to be serious and ready to act, not just browsing.

There is something special about homes in Fall and Winter. Seasonal staging such as cozy throws on patio chairs, a fire crackling inside, and twinkle lights makes every room feel warm and welcoming. This is also a great time to showcase any recent updates you’ve made, such as a new furnace or windows, which can reassure buyers and add value. Neighbourhoods with shovelled driveways, skis or sleds outside send a sense of community and life that helps buyers picture themselves settling in.

Winter also coincides with one of the biggest months for corporate relocation. Many companies set their budgets in January, leading to job changes and relocations in the early part of the year. This can be a significant advantage for you as a seller. People moving for work are often on a tight deadline. They must find a place, settle in, and start their new job. This urgency can work in your favour and can lead to quicker decisions, less negotiation  and more straightforward transactions. 

Every season has its advantages, yet knowing when is best for you to sell is what matters most. With HELM as your guide, you’ll find the timing that fits your needs and your family’s plans. My 55 AND BETTER System is designed to guide Rightsizers through every step of the process with clarity and confidence.

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

A Home with HELM e-newsletter subscriber and longtime community advocate recently made me smile when she shared that her 82-year-old sister calls hiring help around the home “staffing up.”

I meet many people who want to age in place and doing so successfully almost always means having some level of support. That usually begins with asking for help, something that can feel bigger than it sounds. No one wants to admit they need help. For some, it may feel like admitting they are not capable. There can be a fear of how neighbours, family or friends might perceive it. The common refrain is “I’m fine” or “I’ll ask when I need it.” Unfortunately, by the time help is finally requested, it is often during a crisis.

So how do you hire help wisely, safely and with confidence?

1. Start early

Don’t wait for an emergency. Bringing in support while things are going smoothly helps you build trust and find the right fit before it becomes a necessity.

2. Do your homework

Referrals are valuable, yet it’s important to vet them yourself. Ask questions like: What did they do particularly well? Were there any challenges along the way?

3. Ask for written estimates

Always get quotes in writing. Compare not only the price but also what is included. Does the service provider have insurance, training and references?

4. Be cautious with “too good to be true” offers

You often get what you pay for. If a company pressures you to “today only price,” that is a red flag. Quality help is worth the time and proper vetting.

5. Do not hire on impulse

Take some time to think about it. Ask for clarification on anything that feels unclear. Feeling comfortable and confident matters more than moving quickly. 

6. If the help is not working out, speak up right away

Let the person know immediately and explain why. Clear communication saves time, money and frustration for everyone involved. It is far better to adjust early than continue with a situation that is not a good fit.

Aging in place successfully takes planning, trust and teamwork. Whether you call it “staffing up” or simply building your support network, having the right people in your corner makes all the difference. If there is a type of service you are considering, let me know, I’m happy to share my resources with you. 

As the Senior Outreach Partner for Polygon Gallery’s annual “Meet Me at the Gallery” Holiday Tea, I’m happy to invite you to this wonderful community event at the gallery. Join me, visitors, and other supporters for a festive time of connection, conversation, and inspiration including a curator-led tour of the new exhibition, Lee Miller: A Photographer at Work (1932–1945). Celebrate the season, share time with friends, and enjoy our vibrant arts community. Hope to see you there! The date is: December 3rd 10am -12pm. There is a convenient car drop off and pick up area, street parking, underground parking, and a bus stop just a few steps away.

Meet Me at The Gallery is a daytime art program dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors and friends in our community with monthly get-togethers inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions. Visitors are invited to drop-in on the first Wednesday of every month at 10:00 am to make new connections with art, and each other! A different activity will greet visitors every month, with social time to follow. Read about Meet Me At The Gallery in The North Shore News!  Advance registration is helpful, but walk-ins are always welcome. Plan your visit information. 

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

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 

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

During my seminars, Smart Moves: Empowering Choices for Older Adults and Their Families, I share a truth that catches people off guard: the majority of falls happen at home. Not out in the world, not while travelling but in the very place we should feel safest.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), I work closely with older adults and their families to ensure the homes we live in support both our safety and our independence. While home modifications can sound complicated or expensive, the reality is that many fall-prevention strategies are simple, affordable, and immediately effective.

Below are practical changes that can help reduce your risk of falling, most of which can be done in a weekend.

Safer Stairs and Walkways

• Keep stairs, walkways, and outdoor steps in good repair and free from clutter.

• Install sturdy handrails on both sides of all staircases and outdoor steps.

• Ensure stairways are well-lit, with switches at the top and bottom.

• Add nightlights to outlets in hallways and bathrooms to keep areas bright during the evening.

• Apply a non-skid surface to outdoor steps to prevent slipping, especially in wet or icy conditions.

• Have snow removal company lined up now, don’t wait until it snows!

• Have  neighbour or family member “salt” your driveway and walkway during cold weather season. 

Smarter Bathroom Design

• Use a bath seat to shower or bathe while seated.

• Install a raised toilet seat for easier transitions.

• Have grab bars professionally installed near the toilet, bathtub, and inside the shower.

• Wipe up any spills immediately to avoid slippery surfaces.

• Replace loose or bunched rugs with non-slip mats in the bathroom and hallway.

A More Accessible Layout

• Keep daily-use items within easy reach to reduce the need for climbing or stretching.

• Store heavier items in lower cupboards to prevent injury.

• Remove any rugs that shift or slide - even decorative ones and replace them with non-slip options.

• Don’t use ladders or step stools- ask for help instead. People want to help. 

These changes don’t require a full renovation or major investment. Yet together, they help create a safer home, one that supports confidence, and continued independence. That matters not just to older adults, but to their loved ones too.

If you're considering how to age in place successfully or want to explore housing options that better suit your changing needs, contact me. These are conversations worth having before a crisis forces the issue. When we plan ahead, we open the door to more choice and more peace of mind. 

Want more tips like these?
Sign up for my monthly e newsletter HOME with HELM or reach out directly. Whether you're planning a move, helping a parent, or exploring ways to stay safely in your current home, I’m here to help. 

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

I first met Sarah at her neighbour’s open house. She had been living in her home for decades and, like many, was quietly considering a move. Her husband had passed away several years earlier, and she felt it was time to start making some proactive decisions about her future. I was there supporting the neighbour’s family—specifically their daughter, who was acting as a power of attorney and feeling overwhelmed by the logistics of helping her parents move. Things eventually worked out well for them, yet Sarah took notice. She shared with me that she didn’t want to wait for an emergency and be forced to sell, instead of choosing to sell on her own terms. That kind of situation—what I call a crisis move—often means decisions are rushed or made by others. In the end, you’re left second-guessing choices that may not be the best fit after all.

A few weeks later, I met Sarah at her home. She shared what she was looking for and had decided that an independent retirement residence was the right fit. She wanted a place where she could stay social, have space to paint, and travel without worrying about gardens, house maintenance, or security. Being able to walk to nearby shops and enjoy meals without cooking were also high on her must-have list. I answered her questions and introduced her to several retirement residences that suited her lifestyle and future needs. I also accompanied her on the tours—serving as a second set of ears and a sounding board along the way.

Sarah selected a residence close to her brother and his family. Her name was added to the waitlist. A few months later, a suite became available. Excited, we went to see it. But as soon as she stepped inside, she cried. “This is not the home for me,” she said. The suite felt dark, surrounded by too many trees for her liking. The layout didn’t feel right. This was going to be her last home—and she knew it had to feel just right.I reassured her- another suite would come available. And it did. A couple months later, we toured a different suite in the same residence. The moment Sarah walked in, she smiled. She walked to the window and exclaimed, “This is where I’ll put my easel!” The space was filled with natural light—ideal for painting. There was ample room to display her art. It felt like a home to her.

One of HELM’s trusted mover helped set everything up—her bed made, TV connected, phone working. When I visited Sarah shortly after her move, her easel was right where she imagined it. She was settled, happy, and most importantly—she had made the decision on her terms and her timeline. Was everything perfect? No. Adjustments, meeting new people, getting settled in a new home and community had challenges for sure. And what if she had waited to make the move? She might have found herself in a home that simply wasn’t right for her. Touring retirement residences isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about discovering how a place feels—seeing yourself in the space, and understanding what truly fits before a decision becomes urgent.

For some of you, you probably have memories of your parents in dingy, sad “old folks’ homes.” You also may be thinking, “It’s too soon for that,” or “Those places are for old people.” And for many, a retirement residence may not be the right next step. Yet the real difference comes from knowing—because you’ve toured and explored your options, rather than just assuming—what truly feels right for you.

Take a couple I recently helped rightsize to a 55+ condo. We toured a retirement residence together, and afterward, they realized it was simply wasn’t right for them. Instead, they chose a condo close to a senior centre, within walking distance of shops, and nearer to their adult children. The day they selected their new home, they were smiling, excited to make design updates and truly make it their own. It was the right move, because they had explored their options.

Another couple I worked with was sure they wanted to move to a specific retirement residence. When I asked if they had toured it, they admitted they hadn’t. I encouraged them to visit—not just that one, yet others too. A few weeks later, I followed up. "Well, thank heavens we did," they said. "Because the one we thought we’d like... we didn’t. And we ended up choosing a completely different one!" Imagine if they waited until a crisis—they might have ended up choosing the wrong home!

Touring is more than a task. It’s a step toward peace of mind. Whether you're considering a move now or simply starting to gather information, giving yourself the opportunity to see, feel, and experience different environments allows you to make choices that reflect your values, needs, and timeline.

Part of HELM’s 55 and BETTER system, includes accompanying our clients on tours if they prefer. We also provide a list of questions to ask during the tour and a separate list to reflect on afterward. Would you like me to share these lists? Or perhaps you’d like to have the key contacts at a variety of residences to call to arrange a tour? Just ask! 

Sneak Peek: One Level Living with Peaceful View.

Coming to the market October 27 this lovingly cared-for rancher, is nestled on a large 8,590 square foot cul-de-sac lot and backing onto ALR land. The serene setting offers privacy, peace, and a beautiful view of lush greenery — an ideal backdrop for comfortable living. This home’s layout is ideal for multigenerational living, whether for students, in-laws, or extended family. With almost 2,000 square feet of living space, it features three bedrooms and three bathrooms, including two full en suites. Two cozy gas fireplaces, a bright kitchen with island, and a family room off the kitchen with a private view make it a space where everyone can feel at home. Click here for video. 

Additional highlights include:

• Extra-large garage, a crawl space for storage.

• Fully fenced yard and garden shed, perfect for outdoor living.

• Central location, close to shopping, schools, and amenities.

This rancher is not just a house — it’s a place to make lasting memories with family, all while enjoying comfort, functionality, and privacy. For more information and to schedule a tour, visit call me 604 730 2600 or contact me via my website janethelm.com

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s a reminder that winter is just around the corner. For many people, preparing the home for the colder months is not just about comfort—it’s about safety, health, and peace of mind. This is especially true for older adults, who may spend more time indoors during winter and rely heavily on their home as a comfortable place. Here are some important steps to consider when getting your home winter-ready:

1. Check your heating system
Have your furnace inspected and serviced before the cold weather sets in. Clean filters and proper maintenance help ensure your home stays warm and that your system runs efficiently. 

2. Seal drafts and insulate
Windows and doors are common culprits for heat loss. Adding weather stripping, or calking can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home warmer and lowering energy costs. Don’t forget to check attics and basements—extra insulation in these spaces can improve comfort throughout the home. Keep the animals out! It’s that time of year when critters are looking for dry comfy homes! Attics and crawlspaces should be checked! Seal, if signs of rodents, and you may need to hire a service to handle. 

3. Safety first: smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
With heating systems working overtime, winter is a critical time to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries and confirm devices are in good working order.

4. Prevent slips and falls
Indoors, use non-slip mats at entrances where wet boots may track in water. Good lighting around entryways and staircases also helps reduce fall risks. Call your snow removal person now to ensure they will still be just a phone call away this year! 

5. Prepare for power outages
Winter storms can bring power interruptions. Having a few essentials on hand—flashlights, extra blankets, and non-perishable food—can make a stressful situation more manageable. If mobility or health needs make power outages especially challenging, speak with family or neighbours about a back-up plan.

6. Keep emergency contacts handy
Make a list of important phone numbers, such as family, neighbours, plumber, snow removal company, plumber, that can provide help immediately if needed. Having them visible by the phone or in your mobile contacts gives peace of mind. Don’t wait to call. 

7. Think ahead about comfort and connection
Winter can sometimes feel isolating, so it helps to prepare for both comfort and connection. Stock up on cozy favourites like blankets, warm slippers, and your go-to teas. Just as importantly, plan ways to stay connected—arrange regular phone calls, drop by your local seniors’ centre for activities, or schedule visits with friends and family.

Preparing your home for winter doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. A few proactive steps can help you stay safe, warm, and comfortable all season long. And if you find the list daunting, don’t hesitate to ask for support—family, neighbours, or local services are often glad to lend a hand.Winter can be beautiful, and with a well-prepared home, you’ll be ready to enjoy it with peace of mind. Looking for a trusted resource to help you? Ask HELM- we are happy to share our vetted resources with you. 

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

My 99-year-old dad has taken thoughtful, proactive steps to age in place in the family home I grew up in. Unfortunately, I meet many older adults who share the same desire, but aren’t asking for help or making the changes needed to do it timely or safely. Often, their homes are no longer suited to their needs, and without support — whether it's yard work, home maintenance, medication management, or access to healthy meals — they’re not truly aging in place successfully. Aging in place isn’t the right fit for everyone, and it requires planning, flexibility, and ongoing support. Based on my experience with my dad and the many clients I’ve worked with, I’m sharing a few practical tips and guiding principles that can help make aging in place successfully! 

• Start early. Don’t wait until a crisis forces difficult decisions.

• Plan proactively. Use a checklist like the Canada one as your roadmap. Click here for checklist

• Be realistic about support. Even the safest home needs people.

• Stay flexible. As needs change, so will your strategies. Have a Plan B. What are other options?

• Involve trusted people. Family, neighbours, professionals — you don’t have to go it alone.

Before deciding, it helps to think through some key areas:

1. Safety & Home Modifications

To live safely at home, certain modifications can make all the difference. Consider:

• Having grab bars professionally installed near the toilet, shower, or bathtub.

• Ensuring lighting is ample, especially in stairwells, hallways, and entrances. Add nightlights in hallways and other rooms. 

• Removing area rugs or loose carpets that could cause trips.

• Add banisters on both sides of staircases.

• Widening doorways, if mobility devices (walkers, wheelchairs) become necessary.

• Having non-slip flooring, clear paths to and from your entrances and minimizing clutter.

• Avoid stepping on stools, and or ladders - reaching for items. That lightbulb can be changed by a neighbour.

2. Supports for Daily Life

Aging successfully in place is easier when you have support around you. Do you have people ready to help, are just a phone call away? Building a support network or pay for services, aging in place becomes easier for you. Plan ahead. Don’t wait until help is needed! Ask for help sooner.

• Yard work & property maintenance: Ensuring your home is well maintained is important. Do you have regular support for roof and gutter cleaning, snow removal, lawn and garden care, other maintenance around the home?

• Transportation: Is your home accessable to alternate transportation (public transit, ride services, volunteer drivers)

• Deliveries and errands: Does your home fall within an area where grocery or prescription or meal delivery services are available?

• Home services: Will you have regular help set up, for house cleaning, or in-home personal care when needed?

• Will you rely on private or public funded services. Do you know who to call to get quotes and find out the process?

• What it costs. Have you crunched the numbers for in home care, plus the extra supports you may need?

• Staying socially connected is important. Is your home in a location where you can still easily visit friends, have them come over, and stay involved in your community—attending a senior centre for workshops and activities? 

Your Personal Checklist

The Government of Canada offers a 9‑part checklist to help people determine their readiness in areas like health, home, transportation, safety, supports, community, finance, and relationships. Go through each section, respond “yes/no” to statements, and see where your strengths and gaps are. If you end up marking “no” or “needs improvement” in certain areas, those become places to focus — whether you make changes now, plan for the future, or explore alternatives.

Seeing my dad continue to live in the home he loves, surrounded by supports and love, is a gift. But it’s not magic — it’s planning, adjustments, and a community around him.

Looking for Guidance?

If you’re thinking about aging in place, wondering whether to stay or move, or simply not sure where to start, ask HELM! I’m happy to steer you in the right direction and share trusted resources to help you or a loved one thrive at home — safely, confidently, and comfortably. With a plan in place, you’ll have options, clarity, and peace of mind.

As my dad often says, “Janet, we have so much to be grateful for.”
A gentle reminder—many seniors don’t have family or friends close by, so take a moment to reach out and share your thanks with someone who might need a little recognition- it will be appreciated more than you know!
The latest HOME with HELM e-newsletter is on the way! This month, I’m sharing aging-in-place strategies, tips for preparing your home to sell this winter, and why touring retirement residences early matters—plus more resources to help you plan ahead with confidence. If you’d like to receive it in your inbox, visit the contact page at janethelm.com 
Happy Thanksgiving!
With gratitude,
Janet

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

Helping clients find a home isn’t just about matching square footage and price—it’s about understanding the lifestyle they’re hoping to create. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with a young couple looking to downsize, yet still keep all the elements that make life feel vibrant and connected.

Together, we explored options and discovered a truly unique property with everything they were hoping for—and more. From the charming courtyard views to the sense of community, this home offered a balance of comfort, convenience, and connection. They were drawn to the amenities that make daily living feel a little extra special: a grand residents’ lounge with a massive kitchen, cozy fireplace, billiards table, and two large-screen TVs; a fitness centre and steam room; and a library and community garden that invite neighbours to gather and share.

Location mattered too. Centrally situated, with easy access to Semiahmoo Shopping Centre, parks, and schools, it gave them the flexibility to enjoy their neighbourhood without sacrificing convenience.

What’s always rewarding in this process is guiding clients to see beyond the walls of a home—to imagine their life unfolding there, the routines, the celebrations, and the quiet moments. It’s not just about finding a house; it’s about finding a place that feels like the next chapter they’ve been hoping to write.

If you’re considering a move, sometimes the best step isn’t a checklist of features—it’s a conversation, a tour, and a little guidance to discover what truly matters to you.