Many active downsizers are looking for the same thing – a home all on one level – a rancher with its own yard & garage – could be attached or detached, in a gated community or not – just not a condo. Almost entirely non existent in our TriCities – and we always talk about supply and demand – the demand is here, but no supply. Why?
Shortage of land is one answer and making the highest and best use of the land is another. There is also the commitment to higher density made by our local councils. The unintended consequences of the last promise is that our retirees, downsizers and seniors have been sidelined and sacrificed on the alter of density. Many find alternative, smaller more welcoming communities with the desired housing and we lose an entire sector of active, willing, able volunteers. It is almost as frustrating as the fact that Port Moody has no seniors centre or assisted living facility. Again our seniors have to leave their friends and go elsewhere.
As realtors, we understand the value of land and the necessity to be land efficient, but realise that the popularly bandied headline ‘Housing Choices’ does not apply to everyone. Those loyal taxpayers who have contributed to our communities for a lifetime deserve better consideration at the hub of zoning – City Halls. Politicians have learned that they can negotiate with developers – so why not, on behalf of the older crowd? Let’s encourage some outside the box ingenuity. There are lots of great condos, but they are not for every retiree – specially the gardeners, hobbyists and handymen.
So where do our seniors go to exercise their choices? 50% of the population of Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island is over 65 years old, Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast with 50% lower prices than the Lower Mainland has seniors making up 34% of the population and similar make up on Comox on the Island and Okanagan’s Summerland.
We have the generations covered and enjoy many discussions both with first time buyers, young families looking for more space and those retirees looking for less space. Even if you are just starting to think about a move, consult with us about how to make the most of the investment in your home. And, if you are just starting out, it is always about making the wise, as well as happy, choice.
We are here for the long haul, not the short run and as always, focused on keeping you covered, especially in uncertain times.
Generations Real Estate Partners:-
Michelle Hawthorne, Scott Johnson, Sheila Francis, Ray Harris and Shane Goutsis.