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Letter: Rising rent costs influencing seniors to downsize — 'but it takes time'

A Port Moody couple now living in Burnaby sought help from the Senior Services Society in New Westminster to find a place, and the experience was bittersweet.
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The Edmonds, Royal Oak and Cascade Heights neighbourhoods in Burnaby are walkable. | Jennifer Gauthier, Burnaby NOW

The Editor:

My husband and I were privately renting in Port Moody for the last 12 years.

In April, we were informed by the owner that the property was going on the market; however, he wanted to sell it with sitting tenants.

As we pondered what had just happened, we allowed the realtor to take photos for the sale and encountered a few viewings. During this time, though, we felt uncomfortable and had to remove all our personal belongings from sight.

As we are seniors, we started looking around and realized we couldn't afford the going rents; also, many buildings were under construction and not available immediately.

After a few weeks had past, we sought help with Senior Services Society in New Westminster and offered a one-bedroom apartment in Burnaby that was affordable and protected.

We have finally settled but have downsized. The plus side is we are within walking distance to all amenities and SkyTrain, so not dependent on driving.

It's been very stressful mentally and physically and we are seniors but no physical handicaps.

All the administration changes are very consuming and we are able to do it online with the majority — but it takes time. 

It would have been good if we could have found a place in Port Moody.

I understand some are in the process, but nearly not enough and it will be a few years before places become available.

- Linda and Manfred Zumm, Burnaby