Kim Gazo and Andrew Smith are photographed in front of one of the Aspen Lake Townhomes under construction. Photo courtesy of Cheri Marion Photography.
(WEARCI; RetireHere.ca) believes Windsor Essex is the perfect place to retire. “WEARCI is a not-for-profit cooperative marketing partnership, and our mission is to attract investment, create new jobs and revitalize the real estate market throughout Windsor Essex by building on the region’s growing development of active retirement luxury properties and services, and by promoting the unique location, diverse lifestyle and quality amenities of its nine communities,” explains Del Gatto. She states that Windsor is recognized as a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) and our real estate prices range 30 to 60 percent less than comparable markets, making it affordable for seniors. Del Gatto lists some of our assets; “There is lots to do, see and enjoy with 20 conservation areas, three islands, award-winning wineries, Caesars Windsor casino, fairs and festivals throughout all nine communities, botanical gardens, bird sanctuaries, and for the sports enthusiast, we are a border city to four major sports teams: Detroit Pistons, Tigers, Lions and Red Wings.” She and her team target expensive market areas such as the GTA and Vancouver areas to come and enjoy our mild Canadian climate in Windsor Essex, access great amenities and communities, and our proximity to the U.S. border. Del Gatto recommends seniors check out the Windsor-Essex 100 Mile Peninsula Club, designed for newly relocated retirees 50 and older, to develop sustainable programs
A professional rendering of one of the quad townhome designs. Photo courtesy of Chris Fox from Reflective Renderings, New York.
encouraging active lifestyles, social inclusion and ongoing attraction of new active residents. Kim Gazo, Salesperson for Deerbrook Realty Inc. Brokerage, represents a major luxury real estate project by Imperial Homes that is appealing to many seniors in the area. Andrew J. Smith, Broker of Record Deerbrook - Andrew J. Smith Real Estate Inc., also represents the project, which is “a freehold top-quality luxury townhome development boasting modern/ classic design with innovative stone and stucco exteriors that is going to stand out above all others built in the area,” according to Gazo. Called Aspen Lake Townhomes, they are currently being constructed on Cypress Drive in East Riverside, just a street away from “prestigious Aspen Shore, which backs onto serene Aspen Lake — a breathtaking man-made lake surrounded by lush walking trails and teeming with wild life,” describes Smith. Smith and Gazo believe these townhomes are perfect for an ideal retirement. “One of the main benefits of our townhomes is the fact everything you need is on the main floor, from your laundry room to your pantry to all your living space,” says Smith. See more at: ImperialHomes.Build. This one-floor design is especially convenient for seniors, and people with mobility issues can have their townhome built with ramps, wider doors, wheelchair accessible sinks and other considerations. Smith continues, “It has many amenities nearby including a well received senior centre at the WFCU Centre, and many other like-minded people in the area to make friends with.” The townhomes start at $249,900 and go up to $359,900, with maintenance fees of $75/month for grass, snow and roof. The lock and leave lifestyle appeals to retirees, or those close to retiring, as they can lock the door and go to Florida or any other destination for the winter, worry-free. Both say retirees and seniors should jump on this opportunity while it lasts, and promise you won’t be disappointed! Gazo informs us that so far 14 have been sold under contract, with 37 slated to be built this year and 48 more from late 2016 or early 2017.
JUNE 25 & 26 10-5 each day
It’s Your Move
Whether you’re a senior who’s planning to move to a new home or a retirement home, moving has its challenges. But, there is no need to worry as there are several local businesses there to help, including Batemans Make Your Move, which was the 2010 Biz X Award Winner for “Gold Star Senior Care.” Owners Jan and Danny Bateman offer assistance in relocating for their customers, including: helping to decide what they can take with them; packing; completing change of address notifications; booking movers; providing a floor plan and unpacking at their new residence. They also assist in disposal B IZ X M A G A Z IN E • J U N E 2 0 1 6
Windsor & Essex County’s Largest 50+ Consumer Show
WFCU Centre
8787 McHugh St. $2 at the door
75+ Exhibitors
• FREE PARKING • • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • • DOOR PRIZES • CONTESTS • • FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS •
www.Windsor50PlusExpo.com 19