FAQ

Frequently asked questions about life at The Hearthstone.

We are here to answer questions. Call (206) 517-2216 or fill out the contact fields at the bottom of this page to learn more.

What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)?

A CCRC, such as The Hearthstone, is a community that offers independent living, plus higher levels of care such as assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and medical rehabilitation.

What is the non-profit advantage?

As a non-profit community, The Hearthstone uses entrance fees and monthly service fees to support the operation and invest in programs, amenities and improvements that enrich the lives of our residents. No individuals or entities benefit from our successful operation. The residents and future residents are the sole beneficiaries of this self-sustainable community. Decisions are made in the best interests of our residents, rather than shareholders, as is the case with for-profit organizations.

What fees do I pay at The Hearthstone?

As with many nonprofit Continuing Care Retirement Communities, residents of The Hearthstone pay a one-time entrance fee and an on-going monthly service fee. Both vary by size and location of apartment and number of occupants.

What does the entrance fee cover?

An entrance fee is a one-time fee for independent living residents based on the apartment size, location and the type of contract that best meets their financial goals. While the entrance fee and monthly service fee do not signify ownership, they do afford access to all the Hearthstone’s common areas, programs and amenities. The entrance fee also affords priority access to healthcare services at a discounted market rate and up to sixty complimentary days in the skilled nursing and rehabilitation center. Entrance fees contribute to capital improvements to the building and grounds, avoiding special assessments and ensuring a well-maintained community for years to come. If two people live in a residence, a second person entrance fee of five percent applies.

Is the entrance fee refundable?

The Hearthstone offers both non-refundable and refundable contract options. The non-refundable option amortizes over the first four years of residency. Our sales team will be happy to describe each option in detail.

What does the monthly service fee cover?

The monthly service fee covers all utilities, cable TV, Wi-Fi, land line phone service, twice-monthly housekeeping, chef-prepared meals, flexible meal plan, maintenance services, full access to community amenities and programs, scheduled local transportation and monitored emergency response.

Is the monthly service fee fixed or subject to change?

Based on costs for services, staffing and other operating expenses, the monthly service fee is subject to annual increase.

What happens if short-term care needs should arise?

Each member of the care continuum receives up to 60 complimentary days in our skilled nursing unit. These days can be used as needed for skilled nursing stays not covered by Medicare.

Can I decorate or make additional changes to my apartment?

You are welcome to put your personal touches on your new home. Any changes or renovations must first be approved by management and are the financial responsibility of the resident. Custom renovations will remain the property of The Hearthstone.

How do I know which living option at The Hearthstone is right for my situation?

In addition to independent living, the front offices, community services, higher levels of care, dining and the majority of activities are in our flagship Lakeside building. Cove East and Cove West are smaller, adjacent complexes that offer quieter, condo-like living.

What is the process for moving to The Hearthstone?

If you are considering a move, our sales department will be happy to show you our currently available apartment(s). When you are ready to take the next step, simply fill out a residency application. If your application is approved, a deposit in the minimum amount of twenty-five (25) percent of the entrance fee is required to reserve the apartment and schedule a move-in date. Deposit percentages may escalate based on the complexity of the transaction and/or the renovation process, if applicable.

As a long-time Green Lake resident, when I began to explore retirement living communities, The Hearthstone quickly became the perfect choice. I have met so many wonderful and interesting people here. I enjoy having a bistro in my building and access to so many excellent fitness classes, movies, educational classes and other activities offered. I made the best decision for me, and it is a gift to my children as well. They are grateful that I reside is such a safe, caring and supporting community and so am I.

~Terri, Cove East
Our decision to move to Cove West at the Hearthstone took several years. We were specifically looking for a non-profit CCRC in order to meet any future healthcare needs. The Hearthstone’s well-established reputation stood out as did the Green Lake location, which in our opinion is unmatched in the Seattle area. All of the community's amenities and the newly-built (at the time) Cove West sealed the deal. Last but not least, we have found true community with our neighbors.

~Dave and Judy, Cove West
We lived separately and happily at the Hearthstone for several years, and we still consider our individual moves here to be very good decisions. We met at dinner one evening and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company. As a result, the second, totally unexpected decision we made to move in together was another very good decision. Together, we have found something we thought was lost forever. Not everyone finds love at eighty-one. We wouldn’t have either had one of us not moved to The Hearthstone.

~Keith and Therese, The Lakeside
I love living at The Hearthstone and in the wonderful Green Lake neighborhood. My fellow residents and I make up a close-knit community in which there are countless opportunities to improve our physical, mental and spiritual well-being. And the food is good too!

~Don, The Lakeside
We love calling the Hearthstone our home, as does our dog Dosey, who is SO happy living just one block from Green Lake park. Exercise classes and the well-equipped gym keep us physically active. Music trivia and local excursions are fun. The staff supports our daily living with maintenance, cleaning, rides, trips, humor and kindness. We feel lucky to live here.

~Ann and Mary, The Lakeside
It is all about community at The Hearthstone and not just the Green Lake neighborhood community. While we love living in such a vibrant neighborhood, it is the true sense of community with other residents and staff members that makes The Hearthstone so special.

~Frank and Jean, The Lakeside