Toronto Star

Home Ownership After Retirement Can Be Affordable and Stress-Free

- Melissa Vekil

Many Canadians at, or nearing retirement age can feel anxious about their retirement savings. For some, that means looking at affordable alternativ­es to traditiona­l home ownership after age 65. One growing trend among seniors is land leasing; a form of home ownership that reduces the capital costs of buying a home. In the land lease model, residents purchase individual housing units within retirement communitie­s, but they only lease the land. Parkbridge, a Canadian company, has been developing and operating land lease communitie­s across Canada since 1998. With more than 70 neighborho­ods across British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Ontario, Parkbridge offers its residents an affordable retirement lifestyle.

Mediaplane­t What are some of the benefits of a land lease?

Parkbridge Affordabil­ity and the pride of home ownership that comes with purchasing a home in retirement is a key factor for many residents. Another major benefit is the strong sense of communityt­hat we strive to foster through social activities and amenities.

Mediaplane­t What makes Parkbridge communitie­s a more affordable option for independen­t living?

Parkbridge The key to the affordabil­ity is the fact that individual­s purchase their homes and lease the land. Parkbridge homes are, on average, 30 percent less capital cost than freehold homes and have lower taxes in comparison.

Mediaplane­t Whyisyour community a great retirement living option?

Parkbridge Our walkable neighborho­ods foster a true sense of community and there is a great variety of social activities where homeowners can meet other like-minded individual­s. Some communitie­s offer facilities such as outdoor pools, fitness centres, and private outdoor spaces for gardening, entertaini­ng, and recreation. There are also groups, clubs, and classes for homeowners to stay active together, making it easy to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Mediaplane­t What makes Parkbridge living different from other settling in other communitie­s?

Parkbridge Unlike renting an apartment or entering the world of condo living, homeowners in our neighborho­ods have a decidedly more relaxed lifestyle. We’re a partner in the ongoing interest of the community and the protection of our homeowners’ investment, so they can enjoy security, safety, and peace of mind while continuing to live independen­tly.

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