How to Choose a Residence?

In order to lead a happy, carefree life, it is important to choose a place to live that respects your needs, expectations, lifestyle and budget. Picking a residence involves making important decisions that can be emotional or even stressful.

To help you make an informed decision, the ENHARMONIE network offers a guide containing all the necessary steps to follow when choosing a new home.

For each of these eight main steps, we focus on key questions you should ask yourself. We also include links to outside resources that you may find helpful.

Furthermore, we offer a checklist of criteria to print out. This checklist serves as a guide and reminder to simplify your visits and to help you make your final choice. (See checklist.)

1. CHOOSING A TYPE OF HOUSING
2. OPTING FOR AN APARTMENT IN A RESIDENCE
3. DETERMINING YOUR BUDGET, NEEDS AND PREFERENCES
4. MAKING AN INITIAL CHOICE
5. VISITING THE RESIDENCE
6. MAKING YOUR FINAL CHOICE
7. SIGNING YOUR LEASE
8. MAKING A NEW START

 

1. CHOOSING A TYPE OF HOUSING

People are living longer, healthier lives, yet new needs may arise over the years that might lead to changes in their lifestyles. That’s why it is important for you to choose a type of housing that respects your new lifestyle and, of course, your pocketbook.

Though some people decide to stay in their family home as long as possible or buy a smaller home or condo, others opt for a room or an apartment in an assisted living residence. This last option offers the advantage of reducing housing costs and upkeep and providing services that let you look to the years to come with peace of mind.

 

2. OPTING FOR AN APARTMENT IN A RESIDENCE

When the time comes to plan your future years, choosing an apartment with affordable services may prove a wise decision, especially when several residences offer apartments that include a vast range of services.

Choosing to live in an assisted living residence ensures your independence and freedom. Whether you rent a studio or a one-bedroom or two-bedroom unit, an assisted living residence usually provides you with a variety of services, security, and a chance to make new friends in an enriching environment.

The market for residences for seniors is vast and designed to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Since services offered and prices vary enormously, it’s crucial for you to first set your budget and clearly identify your needs.

 

3. DETERMINING YOUR BUDGET, NEEDS AND PREFERENCES

 

First set your budget.

  • Calculate your monthly income (pension, benefits, income from retirement savings etc.).
  • From this amount, subtract your monthly expenses (food, clothing, medication, transportation, insurance, leisure etc.), excluding your fixed rent.
  • This balance is the absolute maximum you can spend on housing each month, but you’ll probably want to put some money aside to cover unexpected expenses.

 

Ask yourself the right financial questions.

  • How much are you willing to spend on rent given your income and the importance you place on your living space?
  • What are the extra costs involved in moving to a residence (for example, moving expenses and new furniture)?
  • Do you qualify for government housing assistance (the 30% tax credit for home-support services for seniors or a housing allowance)?

 

Clearly identify your needs and preferences.

Your choice may depend on specific needs: security and accessibility of the premises, services offered (meals, housekeeping), medical care available on site, layout of the residence or its environment.

 

A checklist can simplify your visits and choice.

We developed a checklist that lets you collect and compare specific information on four residences at a time.

Start by checking off all items in the left-hand column that you consider essential or very important. This will help you better identify not only your housing needs, but also key questions to ask when you speak to staff on site or on the phone.

During your visits, check off the items you find at the residences and jot down other relevant impressions. Once the form is completed, you can easily see which residence best suits your needs.

 

4. MAKING AN INITIAL CHOICE

  • Keeping in mind your budget and the neighbourhood you want to live in, make an initial choice of residences by consulting the register of seniors’ residences of the Ministère de la SantĂ© et des Services sociaux du QuĂ©bec. 
  • Call the owners of the residences.
  • Ask your initial questions.
  • Make an appointment to visit.
  • Ask about open houses or special events.

 

5. VISITING THE RESIDENCE

  • Trust your first impression.
  • Consider all details and check how modern, clean and well-maintained the premises are.
  • Ask the key questions you jotted down when determining your needs.
  • Ask about the services included in the rent and any extra costs.
  • Fill out your checklist.
  • Ask for an information guide on the residence. This document should contain rental terms, procedures, code of ethics and operating rules of the residence.
  • Feel free to talk to tenants since they’re a great source of information.

 

6. MAKING YOUR FINAL CHOICE

To make an informed decision and prepare yourself psychologically for a major change in your life, talk to your family and friends and ask for their advice.

When making a choice, bear in mind:

  • Your real needs
  • Your preferences
  • Your level of independence
  • Your finances

 

7. SIGNING YOUR LEASE

  • Never sign a lease hastily.
  • Never make a verbal agreement.
  • Take all the time you need to read the lease. Ask for a few days if necessary.
  • Check the duration of the lease and ask what happens if tenants move out or pass away before the lease ends.
  • Contact the rental board (RĂ©gie du logement) for any further questions about your lease and rights as a tenant.

 

8. MAKING A NEW START

Now that you’re ready to make a new start, it’s time to sort through your belongings. Give away things you don’t need and keep only what’s important so that your new home isn’t cluttered. After this purge, you’re sure to feel a whole lot lighter.

Send your change of address to companies you do business with and to your friends and family.

In order to facilitate your integration into your new environment, be sure to maintain your relationships with your friends and family. Keep active and take part in activities you enjoy. You can expect a deep feeling of satisfaction because you and your new lifestyle will be in complete harmony.