Searching for your new home should be a positive experience. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you won’t have a lot of questions.

According to Ralph McKenny, our Sales Advisor, having a lot of questions is not only normal, but recommended. That’s why we developed a free tour checklist to help you as you go.

“Prior to doing any tours, I would suggest that people create a list of what is most important to them and prepare a list of questions in advance,” Ralph said. Knowing what is most important to you can help tailor your questions. “If it is quality of food, then ask if you can bring a friend and have a meal. Ask if you can meet and ask questions of the chef. If it’s activities, ask for a calendar of activities and ask if you can choose something and either participate or observe — ask to meet the activities director. If quality of care is most important, ask to meet the director of wellness.”

He also suggests speaking to other residents and asking about their experience. Getting a feel for the culture of a residence will let you know if it’s a good fit for you.

“A question rarely asked is about staff turnover. I personally would ask that question because if the number seems high, I would want to understand why that is,” Ralph said.

He suggests doing online research and calling the locations to narrow yourself down to three or four homes you want to tour. Each will have a unique feel and culture.

He also recommends bringing someone with you on your tour for support.

“It is a good idea to bring family or loved ones whose opinions you trust and respect,” he said. “They may think of questions that you don't, or perhaps they are more comfortable asking questions that you are hesitant to ask. It can also be difficult to remember all of the answers, so they can help you recall answers.”

He also revealed the one thing he wished people knew before they toured.

“The one thing I want people to know is that I will take as much time with them as they need. They should feel no pressure,” Ralph said. “Some families ask many questions while touring and some will ask after the tour — by phone or email. Regardless, I want them to trust that I will do whatever I can to help them make an informed decision.

“A tour is not a commitment; it’s part of the research process.”

Touring residences before you feel you really need to is one of the best things to do. It gives you a chance to really get to know a place and to make a calm decision without feeling pressured. There’s nothing worse than making decisions in a moment of urgency. If you allow yourself the time to research when you don’t have a clear need, you will put yourself in the best possible situation, knowing you will choose after truly considering all options. Planning in advance and touring residences in the area you want to live in will always work to your advantage.

Not sure of which questions you should ask? We’ve developed a tour checklist to help you. Using this free tool, you can compare three residences side-by-side and ensure you’re asking the right questions. Download your free copy here!

Download our Tour Checklist and get started today!