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What Happens When Your Preferred Residence Becomes Available at Emerald Heights?

Sandra Cook on April 27, 2026

One of the most common questions we receive at Emerald Heights is what happens when a residence you are interested in becomes available. We want to make sure you feel informed, prepared, and confident when that opportunity arises.

When an apartment or cottage matching your preferences becomes available, our team will reach out to households who have expressed interest. We maintain an interest list and establish priority based on the date deposits were received.

If you are selected, here is what to expect next.

The First Week: Important Next Steps

Within the first week, you will be asked to complete several important steps:

  • Submit a 10% deposit of the entrance fee
  • Complete an updated Confidential Data Application, including documentation of assets, income, and savings
  • Complete a health information form and schedule an assessment with our team

Once these steps are completed and approved, you will receive a formal approval letter.

At that time, you may also be invited to make selections for your new residence. In some cases, standard finishes may already be in place, depending on the timing and readiness of the home.

Your financial possession date will typically be scheduled for approximately 60 days following approval, whether you choose standard finishes or decide to personalize your residence. This timing may be adjusted if our contractor experiences delays for a standard refurbishment. We suggest you do not sell your home until a completion date has been provided to you by our team, unless you plan on a lease-back option from the buyers of your home.

Sample of a Courtyard apartment and some of the finishes.

The Selections Process

Before a residence is offered, our team conducts a walkthrough to identify items that should be refreshed or replaced based on age, condition, or functionality. That list will be shared with you if you are the awarded future resident of the apartment or cottage.

Standard selections are typically made within 7 to 10 days after a home becomes vacant.

In some situations, if we believe a residence may be reserved quickly, we may delay the final finish selections to allow future residents to choose items such as carpet or paint colors. After you have submitted your deposit and completed the required steps outlined above, you may be invited to make selections for your new residence if the refurbishment process has not yet started.

Personalizing Your New Home

Because this will be your home for many years, you may wish to personalize it beyond our standard selections. Any requested changes beyond our standard refurbishment are considered upgrades, and the costs would be the responsibility of the incoming resident.

Examples of upgrades may include:

  • Alternate carpet selections
  • Expanded luxury vinyl flooring throughout the residence
  • Countertop or cabinet upgrades
  • Kitchen layout modifications
  • Additional custom improvements

All customization requests must be approved by our Facilities Director, and contractors must also be approved by our team.

While customization timelines can vary, the 60-day financial possession timeline generally remains in place, as standard refurbishments are typically completed within that timeframe.

A Milestone Worth Celebrating

We know this is an exciting milestone, and our team will guide you through every step to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Rightsizing for Seniors: Creating a Home That Fits Your Next Chapter

Sandra Cook on November 18, 2025

As many older adults begin planning for the future, the idea of rightsizing has become increasingly important. Rightsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space, it’s about finding a home and lifestyle that better align with your needs, priorities, and goals for the years ahead.
Whether you hope to simplify daily responsibilities, create a safer environment, or free up time for the things you enjoy most, rightsizing can be a meaningful step toward a more comfortable and intentional future.

What Rightsizing Really Means

Rightsizing is the process of adjusting your living situation to fit your current stage of life. For many seniors, this includes:

  • Choosing a home that’s easier to manage
  • Reducing clutter and belongings
  • Increasing safety and accessibility
  • Prioritizing comfort, community, and independence

It’s a chance to thoughtfully shape the lifestyle you want moving forward.

The Power of Intergenerational Connection at Emerald Heights

Sandra Cook on October 28, 2025

Written by Sandra Cook, VP of Marketing at Emerald Communities

At Emerald Heights, community is more than just proximity — it’s about meaningful connection across generations. Our campus has long welcomed outstanding high school and college students through part-time jobs, volunteer roles, and cultural partnerships. What emerges is far more than employment or experience — it’s a powerful, human exchange that enriches both our residents and the next generation.

Just recently, my own high schooler joined the culinary team at Emerald Heights. As an introvert, she has always preferred being quietly in the background. But working alongside our residents has changed her in the most unexpected and meaningful ways. The wisdom and warmth of the older adults she serves have become the gentle push she needed — helping her grow her confidence, expand her aspirations, and come out of her shell. She now looks forward to hearing their stories, asking thoughtful questions, and building real connections that go far beyond a job.

For students like her, Emerald Heights becomes a classroom of life. They learn conversation beyond a screen. They hear real stories of resilience, career adventures, world travel, civic engagement, and family legacy. Many say their confidence, empathy, and communication skills improve dramatically within just a few months of working here.

For our residents, the energy is contagious. They light up when they hear about college acceptances, robotics competitions, orchestra performances, and entrepreneurship projects. Residents often become mentors, cheerleaders — even unofficial grandparents. And in return, they feel a renewed sense of purpose — sharing knowledge, encouraging big dreams, and staying active not just physically, but socially and intellectually.

At Emerald Heights, we believe the best communities don’t separate generations — they bring them together. And every day on our campus, we see proof that when wisdom meets curiosity, everyone thrives.

The Sandwich Generation: Planning Ahead for Aging Parents and Adult Children

Sandra Cook on September 21, 2025

Many people in their 50s and 60s—what we often call young older adults—find themselves part of the Sandwich Generation. They’re balancing work, caring for aging parents, and still supporting adult children, all while trying to plan for their own retirement.

Close up of a grandfather helping out his granddaughter with schoolwork

At Emerald Heights in Redmond, WA, we meet families every day who are navigating these challenges. Understanding the pressures of this stage of life can help you take steps now to prepare for the future.

What It Means to Be in the Sandwich Generation

The Sandwich Generation faces unique responsibilities:

  • Raising children while supporting parents – Some still have teenagers at home, while also helping their parents transition into senior living or providing day-to-day care.
  • Supporting adult children in transition – Even when children are grown, parents may still be called upon to help after job losses, divorce, or other life changes.
  • Living in multigenerational households – Rising housing costs and caregiving needs mean more families are building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or choosing to live under one roof.
  • Planning for long-term care – Parents may be healthy now, but people are living longer, and not always healthier. Proactive planning for future care ensures peace of mind.

Why Preparation Matters

Without planning, these overlapping responsibilities can become overwhelming. Many baby boomers are re-evaluating their retirement plans, financial strategies, and housing choices—not just for themselves, but for their extended families.

Choosing a Life Plan Community like Emerald Heights gives families predictability, with access to multiple levels of care on one campus and financial stability through our Type A Life Care contract. That foresight protects not only your own future but also provides reassurance to your children.

Tips for the Sandwich Generation: How to Prepare Now

Here are a few practical steps to lighten the load and prepare for the years ahead:

  1. Start the Conversation Early
    Talk with your parents and adult children about expectations, finances, and care preferences. Clear communication prevents stressful surprises.
  2. Explore Housing Options
    Consider whether your family may benefit from an ADU, multigenerational living, or a senior living community like Emerald Heights. Touring communities before a health crisis makes decision-making easier.
  3. Understand Your Benefits and Resources
    Review healthcare coverage, long-term care insurance, and retirement benefits. Meet with a financial advisor who specializes in senior living planning.
  4. Build a Support Network
    You don’t have to do it all yourself. Lean on siblings, trusted friends, or professionals to share caregiving and decision-making responsibilities.
  5. Plan for Your Own Future
    While supporting others, don’t neglect your own needs. Take time to prioritize your retirement goals and explore communities that offer financial predictability and long-term care solutions.

Why Emerald Heights is a Trusted Choice

Since 1992, Emerald Heights has helped families in Redmond and across the Pacific Northwest plan for a confident future. Our predictable Life Care model, vibrant lifestyle, and supportive resident community make us a sanctuary for those looking to age well—without burdening the next generation.

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