Belmont opens doors in Stayner
The Belmont Independent Living facility in Stayner will be ready to welcome its first residents by the end of the month.
Manager Karen Brady says the initial phase will include accommodations for 10 residents on the ground floor of the building at 7232 Highway 26 in Stayner. Phases 2 and 3, expected to be completed by late summer, will increase total capacity to 30 rooms.
Brady describes the Belmont as a boutique environment with rooms ranging from cozy studios to deluxe suites with wet-bar type kitchenettes. There is a communal dining room, a lounge area, library, theatre room and landscaped grounds with deck and gazebo.
The building formerly housed the Huronia Guest Home which Brady says targeted low-income seniors, many of whom relied on housing subsidies from the County of Simcoe. That facility closed in January 2023 following reports of squalid conditions and bed bugs. Brady says the vibe at the Belmont is definitely upscale.
The new owners have completely renovated the building to restore its Victorian charm. Common areas feature gleaming wood floors, beautiful trim and chandeliers. Brady says rooms will range in price from $2,900 per month for a studio, to $6,800 for a one-bedroom plus den with kitchenette and ensuite washroom.
“This is a unique, all-inclusive approach, she said. “We intend to be very transparent with our pricing. After 29 years in the health care field I know that some larger facilities quote one price then start layering on extras like a $10 portering charge if you require help to get to the dining room.”
At the Belmont, the monthly fee includes three meals a day plus laundry, housekeeping and a range of wellness, social and recreational activities. The diverse range of services is designed to keep residents active and involved, and the location just steps away from downtown Stayner shops and cafes encourages interaction with the community. Residents requiring home care assistance such as help with bathing or medications will be able to contract for those service privately.
Brady says most of the rental inquiries she’s had have come from local residents, and the response has been very positive.
“People are so glad someone has bought the building who is restoring it,” she said.
