How I See It

By: Frank Jones, originally published in Comfort Life 2008-2009

After visiting dozens of retirement residences through the years, my advice is this:

Take charge! Don't wait for your daughter or son to have to make the decision for you. Visit retirement residences in your area, especially those close to your family long before you need one. If possible, do a trial stay in a residence quest suite for a night or even a week. 

Talk to everyone you can and find out about the food and activities. It's not any equipment that counts - it's how much it's used.

Are these your kind of people? There's bingo everywhere, but if it's books or a game of bridge you're interested in, are you likely to find someone who shares your interest here? Look for a lively residence with lots of interaction among the residents.

Maintain your usual outdoor activities. Whether service club luncheons, mall-walking, whatever - and, if practical, continue to drive your car.

And, a purely personal observation. If you are on your own, rent or buy the smallest unit in the very best facility you can afford. If the residence is good, you won't be spending much time in your apartment anyway.  If you're a couple, think about a two-room unit - there can be too much proximity. Especially if one partner snores!

Mississauga Senior Real Estate: Working With a Lifestyle 55+ Affiliate

Have questions or need advice on how to make decisions based on choice and not circumstance? As a Lifestyle 55+ Affiliate, I believe that every senior deserves personalized service, deep local market knowledge and a commitment to putting their needs first. That's why I offer a range of services that are designed to meet the unique needs of seniors in Mississauga, including:

• A free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your real estate goals and needs
• Specialized expertise in helping seniors navigate the downsizing process
• Access to a network of trusted professionals, including movers, estate planners and home stagers
• A commitment to transparency, honesty and integrity in all of our dealings

If you have any questions about real estate in Mississauga or the downsizing process, don't hesitate to contact me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative and Lifestyle55+ Affiliate with Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage. I am here to help you every step of the way, and we look forward to working with you soon.