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Chances are, you have seen the ups and downs in the financial markets, which can really cause seniors a lot of anxiety when looking at those portfolio statements. Add to that the ripple effects of the Canada-U.S. trade war, and it’s more essential than ever to have a Plan B.
The Trade War Is Personal The Canada-U.S. trade tensions may appear to be a political issue, but their repercussions are directly impacting kitchen tables across the country. Inflation is increasing the cost of everyday essentials, while investments—on which many retirees depend for income—are suffering. For those who cannot easily re-enter the workforce, this situation is more than just inconvenient. It’s stressful.
Withdrawing investments during a market dip can permanently reduce your savings. Meanwhile, rising prices on everything from apples to arthritis medication stretch fixed incomes thinner than ever. This isn’t just about budgeting anymore —it's about building a wise financial safety net.
Plan B Matters More in Retirement You’ve worked hard to reach this point. Retirement should be about freedom, not fear. However, having a backup plan is essential since there are limited ways to generate new income. Think of Plan B as your financial airbag — something you hope you never need, but you're grateful it's there when life encounters a bump. And let’s be honest: even the most well-padded retirement can use a little backup when the economy’s doing somersaults.
The Simple Economics of Cashflow Managing your finances boils down to a straightforward equation: money in versus money out. Think of it as balancing a seesaw—on one side, you have your income (cash in), and on the other, your expenses (cash out). For seniors, especially those on a fixed income, keeping this balance is crucial.
Boosting Your Income Even in retirement, there are ways to add a little extra to your “money in” side. This could be through part-time work, turning a hobby into a small business, or renting out unused space in your home. Every additional dollar earned can provide more breathing room in your budget.
Another option for many Canadians, is right under their feet—their homes. Home equity can be a powerful tool, giving them access to funds without selling or downsizing.
Here are some practical options you may want to consider:
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): If you qualify, a HELOC offers flexible access to funds and charges interest only on the amount you use. It’s perfect for short-term needs or emergency access. Remember, you’ll need to make monthly payments and provide proof of income to qualify.
Manulife One is a creative and customizable solution that combines your mortgage, income, and savings into a single account. It allows you to borrow against your home with greater flexibility. Payments are required but can be made within the available limit. Qualifying is similar to a HELOC.
Reverse Mortgage: For homeowners aged 55 and older, a reverse mortgage allows you to access your home equity without the need for monthly payments. The loan is repaid when you sell or move, providing you with freedom and cash flow while remaining in your home.
These tools can help ensure you're not forced to withdraw from investments during market downturns, letting your money recover while you stay comfortable.
Trimming Your Expenses On the flip side, reducing your “money out” can be equally, if not more, effective. Perhaps you have subscriptions you no longer use for streaming services or mobile phone plans. Or you find you are purchasing too many items at the store because you aren’t preparing a list. Or you are dining out multiple times a week. Remember, every dollar you don’t spend is a dollar saved. Let’s unpack this a bit more, looking at this from a tax perspective
Understanding the After-Tax Advantage of Cost Reduction For seniors supplementing their income with part-time work, it’s crucial to recognize that reducing expenses can be more impactful than earning additional income, primarily due to the effects of taxation.
For example, let’s consider part-time income at a marginal tax rate of 30%.
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• To have an extra $100 in your pocket after taxes, you’d need to earn approximately $142.86 before taxes. This is because 30% of $142.86 is $42.86, leaving you with $100 after tax.
• Conversely, if you reduce your expenses by $100, you effectively save the full amount. There’s no tax on money you don’t spend.
Why This Matters: Every dollar saved is equivalent to more than a dollar earned when considering taxes. This means that focusing on cost-saving measures can be a more efficient strategy for improving your financial situation than seeking additional taxable income.
3 Major Strategies to Help You Cut Costs Budgeting: Prioritize identifying and eliminating unnecessary expenses. Regularly review subscriptions, dining habits, and utility plans to find areas where you can cut back.
Smart Shopping: Utilize discounts, loyalty programs, and bulk purchasing options to reduce spending on essentials.
Tax Planning: Be aware of how additional income might affect your tax bracket and eligibility for income-tested benefits. Sometimes, earning more can inadvertently reduce certain government benefits.
Saving Smart – Some Tips to Get Started Your Plan B doesn’t have to focus solely on earning more income or borrowing. Sometimes, the best backup plan begins with cutting the extras. Think of it as being retro cool — just like you were before it became trendy.
Tip #1: Rethink Dining Out - A Once-A-Week Treat, Not a Routine I love to dine out. It’s great to leave the cooking to someone else, especially after a busy day. But this is also one of the fastest ways to drain your budget. In Toronto, the average cost of a casual dinner for two with wine is around $90–$120. Opt for a more upscale spot? You’re likely looking at $150+ after tax and tip.
Savings Tips • Cutting out one dinner per week could save approximately $400–$500/month or $5,000–$6,000/year.
• Think about hosting a monthly dinner with friends at home where everyone brings a dish. You’ll still enjoy social time—but for a fraction of the cost. Or maybe try organizing a game night. Perhaps it’s euchre or cribbage, or maybe charades they all have something in common (they don’t require a monthly fee). Organize a potluck to bring people together. Twister might be off the table (unless your chiropractor is on standby), but laughter and connection are always in season.
• Also think about how you can share resources. From ride-shares to splitting bulk grocery purchases with a neighbor, the old-school approach of sharing is making a comeback. It’s like carpooling, but with avocados and streaming passwords.
Tip #2 Review Your Subscriptions - What are you Really Using? Have you already binge-watched all the episodes of your favourite shows, but you are still paying for streaming services you haven’t used in months? Then it’s time to cancel some subscriptions. According to the Convergence Consulting Group The average Canadian household now spends $70–$90/month on streaming and digital services (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify, etc.).
Many people are paying too much for mobile. According to the CRTC, the average Canadian pays $64/month for mobile service. Seniors who negotiate can often reduce this to $35–$45/month—a 30–40% savings.
Savings Tips: • Audit Your Subscriptions: Write down every monthly and yearly subscription you have. Even cutting or optimizing 2 or 3 could save $30–$50/month.
• Cancel subscriptions you don’t use often. You can always resubscribe later. Instead of paying for four platforms and using a few, consider rotating through them one at a time. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can catch up on your favorites. Many streaming platforms also offer free trials or cheaper, ad-supported versions.
• Call Your Mobile Phone & Internet Carrier Once a Year. Most people don’t realize how much loyalty can cost them. New customers often get much better deals than long-standing ones. When you call, here are some questions to ask:
“Am I on the best plan for my usage?”
“Are there any promotions I qualify for?”
“Can I get a loyalty discount?”
“Do you offer special discounts for seniors?”
Keep in mind there are also senior-specific mobile plans from carriers like Zoomer Wireless, Public Mobile, or SpeakOut.
• Don’t be shy about taking your business elsewhere. Carriers don’t want to lose subscribers and have special offers designed to make you want to stay. You’d be surprised how quickly they "find" a discount.
Savings Tip #3: Don’t Throw Out Those Flyers and Coupons With inflation pushing up grocery prices, shopping smart matters more than ever. According to Statistics Canada, the average Canadian household now spends $1,065/month on groceries. So, it may be time to pay attention to those grocery store flyers you used to throw out. While Canadian data on potential savings is limited, US studies show that flyers and couponing can reduce costs by 10–25% for groceries and other household items if used consistently.
Savings Tips: • Use apps like Flipp or visit sites like Smart Canuks to find online flyers you may have missed.
• Sign up for loyalty cards to access extra discounts. One of the most popular savings programs, PC Optimum, offers frequent discounts and helps you collect points at Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaws. Also, remember to swipe loyalty cards at the pump; many gas retailers offer discounts that can add up.
• Consider shopping at stores like Walmart, which have pricing-matching policies for identical items you find advertised elsewhere.
Saving Tip #4: Cut the “Daily Habits” That Add Up Remember, it’s not just the big expenses—it’s the daily ones that sneak up on you. Let’s look at a few “seemingly small” indulgences as examples:
• 3 Starbucks Grande Lattes ($6.45 + tax) x 3 days/week = $1,137/year
• Take-Out Lunch (for $12 + Tax) x 3 days/week = $2,115/year
That’s over $3,000/year in “small” daily purchases!
Savings Tips: • Prepare Meals in Advance: Cooking larger portions and planning for leftovers can minimize the temptation of ordering takeout. Planning meals and shopping with a list can prevent impulse purchases and reduce food waste.
• Embrace the Home Café Trend: Investing in a quality coffee maker and brewing your own coffee can add joy to your day but also reduce your costs.
• Set a Food Budget: Establishing a clear budget for dining out and groceries helps you track expenses and make more mindful spending decisions. Try allocating specific amounts to avoid overspending.
Saving Tip #5: Leverage Senior Discounts if you are 60+ From transit to museums to groceries and drugstores, there are dozens of businesses that offer 10–20% off for seniors—but they don’t always advertise it. Many stores also have a set day of the week for seniors' discounts. Consider this: A $50 weekly purchase with 20% off saves $10—over $500/year.
Savings Tips: • Shoppers Drug Mart has a 20% Seniors Day on Thursdays (for those 65+)
• Rexall offers a 20% discount on Tuesdays
• Many major retailers (e.g., Canadian Tire, Sobeys) offer senior discounts that vary by location—ask at checkout. Cineplex has special pricing for seniors plus seasonal promos like $5 Tuesdays if you want to take the grandkids with you.
Saving Tip #6: Mind Your Utilities and Insurance Reviewing these bills once a year can result in hundreds of dollars saved. Consider switching to time-of-use electricity plans, which are offered in most areas. Check to see when cheaper rates are offered during off-peak hours, and look at using appliances such as your clothes dryer on off-peak hours. You can also lower your insurance premiums by looking at options such as raising your deductible (if you’re comfortable with the risk). Also, look at rates offered by providers for “pay as you drive” insurance, especially if you aren’t using your car a lot. Also, if you are not bundling your home and auto insurance, you may be missing out on some savings.
Saving Tip #7: Buy & Sell Online Many items we need can be found for a fraction of the cost used on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji. And remember, buying a used item also saves on tax. Many retirees have extra furniture, tools, collectibles, or tech they don’t need. It's now easier than ever to declutter and turn these unused items into extra cash.
It’s All About Small Changes and Big Rewards Recessions are hard on everyone, but especially on those living on fixed incomes. The good news is that there are plenty of smart, manageable ways to reduce expenses without giving up all the good things in life. By becoming a more conscious consumer and checking in on your spending habits once or twice a year, you can save thousands of dollars annually—money that can be redirected toward travel, gifts for grandkids, or, if nothing else, it just may calm your nerves.
Another Tip: Don’t Wait — Timing Matters If this trade war continues, housing values may dip, which means the equity you can access could shrink. Getting your Plan B in place now ensures you lock in flexibility and peace of mind before things tighten up. Remember, it’s easier to get approved for a HELOC or reverse mortgage when you don’t urgently need it. It's better to set it up and keep it on standby than to wait until it’s too late.
Talk It Out Stress develops in silence. Speak to family and friends about your concerns. They may not have all the answers, but they’ll provide emotional support — and possibly assist with paperwork or technical hurdles.
If you have senior loved ones, check in and ask how they’re feeling about rising costs and uncertainty. These conversations go a long way and might even lead to better solutions.
This trade war isn’t solely about economics. It involves peace of mind, dignity, and stability in retirement. While it may not be the type of Plan B that preoccupies the younger generation, it is equally important — perhaps even more so.
So, take a breath. Make a plan. Get creative with your budget, and look at ways to save. Tap into your home equity if necessary, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. With the right Plan B, you can face the future with confidence — and perhaps even enjoy a little fun along the way.
Here's a handy checklist to help you get started.
Quick Wins Checklist ❏ Cancel one unused subscription
❏ Call your mobile carrier for a better deal
❏ Bring lunch instead of dining out 1x/week
❏ Use a coupon or flyer on your next grocery trip
❏ Look for a senior discount before you pay
❏ Brew your coffee at home 3 days this week
❏ Research potential discounts on your car insurance (bundling or pay-as-you-drive options)
❏ Use your clothes dryer or other appliances during off-peak hours to save on electricity
Don’t Retire … Re-Wire!
Sue
In a recent case that left many “All Shook Up," a Missouri woman attempted to defraud the Presley family by claiming ownership of the iconic Graceland estate. Most stories involving “The King” make for good reading, and they also hold an important lesson for homeowners. This bold scheme is a stark reminder that fraud knows no boundaries—whether you live in a mansion or a modest home, fraudsters can and will target anyone.
The Graceland Fraud Attempt Lisa Jeanine Findley, a 53-year-old from Missouri, orchestrated a plan to defraud Elvis Presley’s family of millions by attempting to claim ownership of Graceland. She falsely alleged that Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for a $3.8 million loan that remained unpaid at the time of her death in 2023. To support her claims, Findley fabricated loan documents and filed fraudulent foreclosure notices, threatening to auction the estate if the supposed debt wasn’t settled.
Riley Keough, Lisa Marie’s daughter and heir to Graceland, challenged these claims in court, asserting that no such loan existed and labeling the foreclosure attempt as fraudulent. The court sided with Keough, blocking the sale and prompting Findley to withdraw her claims. Subsequently, Findley was arrested and charged with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. She pleaded guilty in February 2025 and faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for June 18, 2025.
Lawrence v. Maple Trust - A Canadian Fraud Attempt Closer to home, in 2006, Toronto homeowner Susan Lawrence fell victim to a similar scheme. Fraudsters transferred the title of her fully paid-off home into their names and registered a fraudulent mortgage with Maple Trust. Lawrence only discovered the fraud when she attempted to access her home equity.
After an initial ruling forced her to bear the mortgage debt, she appealed. The Ontario Court of Appeal reversed the decision, ruling that the lender should bear the loss, not the innocent homeowner. The case took nearly two years to resolve and cost Lawrence an estimated $50,000 to $100,000 in legal fees—not to mention the emotional and financial stress.
Lessons for Homeowners about Fraud This case highlights several critical lessons for homeowners:
1. Be Vigilant Against Fraudulent Claims: If fraudsters can attempt to steal Graceland, they can target your home too. Monitor your property records for unauthorized changes.
2. Don't Divulge Sensitive Information: Fraudsters can use social engineering tactics to piece together important information you share and use it to forge or alter property ownership records etc. Be careful with what you share, especially with strangers.
3. Regularly Monitor Property Records: Periodically checking public records for any unauthorized liens or claims against your property can help detect and address fraud early.
Online credit reporting services such as Credit Karma offer free apps and email alerts that can help you spot potential fraud.
4. Beware of Contracts: Watch out for deceptive practices employed by certain rental companies, leading to unexpected financial obligations and complications. Using deceptive, high-pressure sales tactics, these companies can leave homeowners burdened with property liens after signing contracts for appliances like furnaces, air conditioners, and water heaters. If you are faced with this, don't rush the process. Do some additional research and/or take the next step below.
5. Consult Legal Professionals: If you are pressured to sign a contract, receive dubious claims, or receive foreclosure notices, seek advice from qualified legal professionals to navigate the situation effectively.
4. Secure Title Insurance: Title insurance protects homeowners against potential defects in the title, including fraudulent claims. It’s a crucial safeguard that can prevent significant financial loss.
Let’s unpack this last point about Title Insurance.
What is Title Insurance: Your Best Defence Title insurance is a safeguard for homeowners, protecting them against potential issues related to the ownership of their property. This insurance ensures that the homeowner is shielded from financial loss if any unforeseen problems with the property’s title arise. Title insurance is a policy that protects property owners and lenders against financial loss resulting from defects in a property’s title. These defects can include unknown liens, encroachments, zoning violations, or even fraud that may have occurred before the homeowner acquired the property. Unlike other insurance types that cover future events, title insurance addresses past events that could affect property ownership. Why is Title Insurance Necessary? Purchasing a property is often the most significant investment individuals make. Title insurance provides peace of mind by ensuring the property’s title is clear and free from unforeseen issues. Without this protection, homeowners could face legal disputes or financial losses if a problem with the title emerges after the purchase. For instance, if a previous owner’s unpaid taxes or undisclosed heirs come forward claiming ownership, title insurance would cover the legal fees and potential losses associated with resolving these issues.
The Cost of Title Insurance in Canada In Canada, the cost of title insurance varies depending on factors such as the property’s value and location. Typically, premiums for residential properties range from $250 to $500. However, the cost can increase for higher-valued properties. This premium is a one-time payment made during the closing process and remains valid for as long as the homeowner owns the property.
Providers of Title Insurance in Canada Several reputable companies in Canada offer title insurance. Some of the prominent providers include:
FCT (First Canadian Title) Stewart Title Please note: None of the providers above are sponsored links.
How to Check if You Have Title Insurance If you’re uncertain whether you have title insurance, consider the following steps:
1. Review Your Closing Documents: Examine the paperwork you received during the property’s purchase. Look for any mention of title insurance policies.
2. Contact your real estate lawyer: The legal professional who helped with your property purchase should have records showing whether title insurance was obtained.
3. Contact Title Insurance Providers: Most Title Insurance companies maintain issued policy records. Contacting them directly can help confirm whether a policy exists for your property.
Homeowners Without a Mortgage: A Higher Risk Group If you’re a homeowner who owns their property outright, you can be at a higher risk concerning title-related issues. Why? Fewer parties (such as lenders) monitor the property’s status when no mortgage is in place. By contrast, when a mortgage is involved, most lenders today, as a rule, require title insurance to protect their investment, indirectly safeguarding the homeowner as well. However, some homeowners might overlook obtaining title insurance without a lender's mandate. This leaves you more vulnerable to potential title defects or fraudulent claims against your property.
Real estate fraud is not a problem reserved for the wealthy—any homeowner can become a target. Securing title insurance and staying vigilant is the best way to protect your property and your financial future. It's such an important topic, I'll be sharing more tips on title insurance in future posts. After all, as Elvis might say, “What I say is true; if it could happen to the King, it could happen to you.”
Don’t Retire … Re-Wire!
Sue
The early 1990s were tough for many Canadians, including my partner and me. The recession of 1990-1991 hit us hard, leaving both of us without jobs and staring at an unemployment rate that had climbed to a record 10.23%. With bills piling up and options dwindling, we had to get creative—and fast. That’s when we found an unexpected lifeline in an unlikely place: my partner’s grandmother’s house.
Grandma, a 90-year-old fireball from Newfoundland, was sharp as a tack and fiercely independent. However, her home was starting to feel too large for her to manage on her own. Meanwhile, we needed a place to live that wouldn’t drain our limited savings. Over cups of tea at her cozy kitchen table, a plan started to take shape: we would build a basement apartment in her house, move in, and exchange affordable rent for assistance around the house. It was a perfect win-win.
I didn't know it, but I was an ADU pioneer Today, this living arrangement may be recognized as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), a secondary housing unit on a single-family property. However, in 1991, this concept was far from mainstream. For us, it was simply a matter of survival—a practical solution born from necessity.
We rolled up our sleeves and got to work. With a few friends and determination, we transformed Grandma’s basement into a modest but functional living space. It was basic, even a bit wonky—you had to walk through the bedroom to get to the living room-kitchen combo—but it was ours. We managed most of the construction ourselves, and hired an electrician for the wiring and a plumber to handle the pipes. The rest was pure sweat equity.
Living in that basement was an adjustment, to say the least. Space was tight, and our DIY craftsmanship wasn’t exactly HGTV-worthy. However, it provided us with a fresh start. But as ADU pioneers, we got much more than we could have imagined. A much closer connection to family. Grandma’s wit and energy were the heart of the house, and we grew closer to her than we ever imagined. Her stories about growing up in Newfoundland in the late 1800s mesmerized me. I would sit there, wide-eyed, as she recounted winters so cold that tea froze before it hit the cup and evenings illuminated by whale oil lamps. We laughed constantly, and she quickly became the grandmother I never had since my grandparents had passed before I was born.
Grandma and I stayed close even after my relationship with my partner ended. I couldn’t imagine life without our Friday lunches, which became a cherished tradition. Every week, I’d visit, and she’d share more stories or critique my cooking attempts with her quick wit and that unmistakable Newfoundland twang. She continued to be a beacon of joy and wisdom in my life.
Grandma thrived on independence, which she held onto with great determination. At 90 years old, she re-tarred her driveway by herself, much to the neighbours' surprise and my immense admiration. The tar application was as wrinkled as her skin, and she couldn't care less. She beamed with pride while I took her picture!
She loved having visitors, and the parish clergy were frequent guests. She always welcomed them with a twinkle in her eye and a sharp sense of humour. Once, when the parish priest asked her if she ever thought about "the hereafter," she shot back, “Oh, I think about it every day when I go into the basement and ask myself, ‘What am I here after?’” That was Grandma: quick-witted, strong, and full of life.
Our basement apartment was more than just a place to live; it was a lifeline. The benefits extended beyond us. Grandma stayed in the home she loved until she passed away peacefully at 96 years old, sitting at her kitchen table on my birthday. It was a poignant moment that reminded me how much she had shaped my life.
The modest basement apartment not only sheltered us but also added value to her home. We inadvertently enhanced the property’s functionality and appeal by converting unused space into livable quarters.
This represents a key advantage of ADUs in today’s economy. Given the housing shortages and rising costs, ADUs provide a practical solution by offering affordable rental options, increasing property values, and creating opportunities for intergenerational living.
In recent years, governments have acknowledged the importance of ADUs, making it easier and more affordable for families to construct them. Changes to mortgage lending policies have been introduced to promote ADU construction. For instance, insured loans now cover up to $1.5 million, and the amortization period has been extended to 30 years, enhancing financing accessibility. Furthermore, the federal government has announced new refinancing options to allow up to 90% of the property’s value. At the same time, low-interest loans for ADU construction have doubled to $80,000, with repayment terms of 15 years. These welcome changes will lower financial barriers and assist homeowners in creating secondary housing units, addressing both affordability and housing shortages.
This intergenerational arrangement we set up over three decades ago was a win-win in every way. It provided mutual support, strengthened family bonds, and created a housing solution that benefited both generations. Seniors can age in place with dignity and companionship while younger generations gain access to affordable housing and the chance to learn from their elders. The laughter, shared meals, and stories crafted memories that will last a lifetime. Moreover, ADUs can help ease housing shortages and increase the availability of affordable rentals. They represent a practical, cost-effective method to utilize existing properties better. For families, they offer flexibility—a space for aging parents, adult children, or even potential rental income. For communities, they supply essential housing stock without necessitating large-scale development. For a deeper dive into ADUs, here's a link to a post we shared last year https://expertfile.com/spotlight/10346/additional-dwelling-units--adus- What's Old is New Again It's often said that many things come back in style if you wait long enough. This may hold for ADUs, simply an old concept whose time has come again. Nonetheless, ADUs empower our younger generation to afford housing and achieve homeownership. They also provide vital support for our older generations, enabling them to age in place while generating much-needed income for a dignified retirement.
Reflecting on the past, I often ponder who saved whom. Grandma’s indomitable spirit and sharp humour made every bump in the road worthwhile. She would tease me about the crooked shelves we installed and joke that our kitchen was so small we could stir the soup without getting off the couch. In truth, she gave me more than I ever gave her. Her strength, love, and unwavering sense of humour helped me navigate one of the most challenging times in my life.
The quirky basement we built in 1991 may not have been perfect, but it served its purpose. Today, as ADUs gain popularity, they represent more than just housing; they embody connection, resilience, and finding creative solutions to life’s challenges. Whether it’s a basement apartment, a backyard cottage, or a garage conversion, ADUs can foster connection and help families thrive—just as we did all those years ago.
And as for Grandma? She demonstrated that a touch of humour, plenty of love, and the occasional jab at a priest could keep anyone young at heart. Every time I think of her now, I can’t help but smile and wonder if, somewhere, she’s still re-tarring driveways and asking herself, ‘What am I here after?’
Don’t Retire … Re-Wire!
Sue
