mmm

Hi Maplegirl,
If I were you, I would

a. Not take offer of $500. I would rather spend the same money myself, and gain experience in the bargain, doing all the things myself. It is easily do-able.
b. I would finalise my stay arrangements on internet for about one week max. and then go about searching for accomodation myself. There is lot of difference when you see the place for yourself.
c. hchheda has raised a pertinent point, you need to provide an address (at the immigration desk when you land) where you would like to receive your PR card in mail. (However that can be done later also!)
You may like to see this link:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pr-card/prc-process.html