Canada's population is aging, and there is no doubt as to the impact that segment of our society is having and will continue to have on our real estate market in years to come. When it comes to assisting senior clients with their move, there are a number of important questions that must be asked:

Do you WANT to move, or do you feel you HAVE to move?
There are only two broad reasons why seniors move. They might want to move to be closer to family, shopping, or healthcare services, or to downsize. The other broad reason is because they feel they have to move due to health, financial or other crucial reasons. Discovering the broad reason for your move allows your ASA Realtor® to help you the best they can.

Have you researched all your options?
Most people are surprised at the range of options they have open to them when it’s time to make a move. Homeowners and realtors who do not focus on these options are often faced with an overwhelming situation which, in turn, brings undue stress to an already emotional time. ASA realtors are trained and up-to-date on what the options are locally, and have a network of similarly trained professionals who can help you across the country if you are moving out of the area.

Is your will up to date?
ASA realtors are aware of the many options available to you. Between their own knowledge and that of their network of exceptional specialists (whether it is financial assistance to help you stay where you are, or moving to any number of options, including assisted-living), ASA realtors have the expertise to make it as easy as possible for you.

If you could stay in your home, would you?
There are many programs to help seniors stay in their homes as long as possible. It is part of an ASA realtor's training to know about, and understand, the programs available locally. These programs range from financial assistance for renovations to adapt your home to your changing needs, to healthcare, meal delivery, and much more. As the availability of these programs is constantly changing, you need someone on your side to help you every step of the way.

Who is advising you about your living situation?
Family, friends and neighbours all mean well, and they typically have differing opinions as to what is best for you, often leaving you feeling overwhelmed and confused. ASA realtors understand how you feel, and have met many others who have felt the same way. What they found was that having a caring and knowledgeable counselor, such as an ASA agent, on their side went a long way towards relieving that stress and confusion.

Do you have professional advisors - a lawyer, an accountant, or a financial planner?
While everyone’s need for these types of professionals is different, most people will require the services of one or all of them. If you do have advisers, we would love to know who they are and collaborate with them in helping you make the right decisions; if you do NOT have them, our network of exceptional specialists is made up of people we would trust our parents to, and we would be happy to refer them to you.

When was the last time you sold real estate?
Things have changed significantly over the years, and continue to do so. Your ASA realtor will take the time to make sure you are comfortable and informed, so you can make the best decisions for you - even if that means you decide to stay where you are for now. YOU only know what is best for YOU.

What questions do you have?
When a question pops into your head, jot it down. When you get together with your ASA agent, you can make sure you have all the information you need to make all the right decisions for you.


Moving on to the next chapter in your life could prove to be the most exciting time ever. Planning it in an informed and organized way is easy when you seek the right partner and advisor. An Accredited Seniors Agent is always the right choice.


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Hélène Leduc is MAC Real Estate's Accredited Seniors Agent.
For more information, or to book a complimentary consultation
with Hélène, please call us at 416-222-0025.