Working with Atlanta-area seniors and their families, it’s one of the most common discussions I have. Even if you feel you don’t have a large estate, planning for what will happen in the coming years is essential.
It may not be the most fun you’ll have, but estate planning can save your family members years of trouble and heartache. A recent Kiplinger article cites example after example of entertainers who died with their estate wishes unknown, undocumented, or unclear. The list includes Prince, Aretha Franklin, James Brown and Ric Ocasek — all who left unclear estate plans that resulted in months or years of legal work to settle. Perhaps worst of all is the fact that their true wishes may have been delayed or not come to fruition at all.
The article suggests we all learn from their mistakes and take action today to give you peace of mind and make things easier for your heirs. It outlines some suggestions to prevent estate issues for your own family which includes:
Prepare for death
Be clear about who should benefit
Charity before death pays benefits
Update your estate & complete your will
Get help picking trustees
Know how divorce affects your estate
Protect your legacy
Consider selling property while alive
Name your beneficiaries.
If you’re looking for resources or have estate planning questions, especially regarding property and real estate, we’re here to help. Contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate today.
As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, I not only help people purchase and sell homes but also advise families as they search for the perfect senior living arrangement. That may be aging in place, moving to 55+ communities or senior living facilities. These days, I recommend families not be afraid to think creatively.
We’re hearing about adult children building “Granny Pods” or tiny houses for their aging parents so they can be nearby. And increasingly, seniors are looking at shared living arrangements. Yes, roommates. Not only does it help alleviate the financial burden, but it also provides companionship and a support network.
One option is co-housing, where a group of individuals of similar age and interests come together to share a home or a community. Each person or couple has their own private living space, but there are also shared areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and gardens. Co-housing offers the best of both worlds: privacy when you need it and a supportive community right at your doorstep.
Another alternative is home-sharing, where two or more seniors with compatible lifestyles and preferences share a larger house. This arrangement allows you to split expenses, maintain your independence, and enjoy companionship with like-minded individuals. It’s a fantastic way to build lasting friendships while saving on living costs.
Moreover, many retirement communities and senior living facilities have recognized the growing interest in roommate options and have started to incorporate shared living arrangements into their offerings. These communities often provide a range of amenities and services, including social activities, housekeeping, and dining options, making it even more enticing for seniors looking to share their living space.
Kiplinger recently published an article about creative ways to save early in retirement which includes looking at roommates. Read the full article here and explore some of the ways they suggest retirees save or make a little extra money.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to ask. I’m here to assist you every step of the way! Contact Hilary Walker.
A “gray divorce” refers to the phenomenon of older adults, typically those over the age of 50 or 60, getting divorced after a long-term marriage. It’s common that realtors sell homes for couples dissolving a marriage but, with a gray divorce, there are some unique issues to be considered and addressed.
First, why the increase in gray divorces?
People are living longer so seniors may reevaluate their lives and relationships, seeking personal fulfillment and happiness in their remaining years.
Societal attitudes toward divorce have evolved over time, reducing the stigma associated with ending a long-term marriage. This cultural shift has made it more socially acceptable for older couples to consider divorce as a viable option, even after spending decades together.
Changing gender roles and economic factors have influenced gray divorces. Women have gained more financial independence and equality, allowing them to consider divorce without relying solely on their spouses for support. Additionally, economic stability has improved for older individuals, making it more feasible for them to consider divorce without concerns about financial security.
Gray divorces can present unique challenges compared to divorces among younger couples. For instance, older adults may have accumulated significant assets, such as retirement savings or properties, which need to be divided fairly. Moreover, issues related to spousal support, healthcare, and retirement plans become critical considerations during the divorce process.
For women facing a gray divorce, Kiplinger has a guide to preparing for the financial impact.
By far, the most popular blog we’ve had recently is about Universal Design – the process of making your home accessible for people of all ages and abilities. It creates an easier and safer environment for everyone and has the added benefit of allowing individuals to remain in their homes longer as they age.
I recommend everyone, regardless of age, consider incorporating Universal Design into your home. It’s helpful for your entire family and is a unique and highly desirable selling feature if/when you decide to sell your home. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, it’s also something I look for when searching for homes for my clients to consider.
A recent AARP article recommends nine changes everyone should consider for the kitchen including:
August 21st is designated World Senior Citizen Day which was created by a UN resolution in 1982. The resolution proclaimed the “International Year of Older Persons” and aimed to raise awareness about issues affecting older adults and promote their rights and well-being.
Building upon this initiative, on December 14, 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 21st as World Senior Citizen Day. The day was officially recognized to emphasize the importance of older adults and their contributions to society. It also aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by seniors and promote policies that support their rights and welfare.
Since its establishment, World Senior Citizen Day has gained recognition and observance across the globe. Governments, non-governmental organizations, community groups, and individuals have embraced the day as an opportunity to honor and appreciate the elderly population and promote their well-being.
Real estate agents sell houses and help people find houses but, on occasion, I’ve advised clients that their best move may be no move at all. If you love a home and are able to age in place, that may be your best option. I’ll be here to facilitate a sale or purchase when the time comes, but I am committed to always doing what’s best for my clients.
Fortunately for all of us, there are a lot of wonderful organizations who are experts in helping families right-size and make adjustments needed so that seniors can safely age in place.
Senior relocation company Caring Transitions created a brief guide to “Bringing Rightsizing and Age in Place Modifications Together.”
(Posted with permission from Caring Transitions of Northeast Atlanta) As we age, it’s important to consider how our living space can support our changing needs. Aging in place home modifications can help seniors maintain their independence and stay in their homes for as long as possible. Combining these modifications with rightsizing, or downsizing to a more manageable living space, can create a safe and comfortable environment for seniors.
Assess Your Home for Safety and Accessibility. Before making any modifications to your home, it’s important to assess your current living space for safety and accessibility. This includes identifying potential hazards such as loose rugs, uneven flooring, and narrow doorways. You should also consider the accessibility of your home, including the placement of light switches, electrical outlets, and other fixtures. By identifying potential safety and accessibility issues, you can create a plan for making the necessary modifications to your home to ensure a safe and comfortable living space for seniors.
Prioritize Modifications Based on Needs and Budget. When it comes to combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to prioritize modifications based on both needs and budget. Start by identifying the most critical modifications that need to be made to ensure safety and accessibility in the home. This may include installing grab bars in the bathroom, widening doorways, or adding a stairlift. Once these critical modifications have been made, you can then focus on making additional modifications that will enhance comfort and convenience. Remember to consider your budget when making modifications and look for cost-effective solutions that will still meet your needs.
Consider Universal Design Principles. When combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to consider universal design principles. Universal design is the concept of designing products and spaces that are accessible and usable by people of all ages and abilities. This means incorporating features like zero-step entrances, lever door handles, and adjustable height countertops. By incorporating universal design principles into your home modifications, you can create a space that is not only safe and comfortable for seniors, but also for visitors and family members of all ages and abilities.
Work with a Professional to Ensure Quality and Safety. When it comes to combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to work with a professional to ensure that the modifications are done safely and effectively. A professional can help you assess your home and determine which modifications are necessary to create a safe and comfortable living space for seniors. They can also ensure that the modifications are done in compliance with local building codes and regulations. Additionally, a professional can help you select the right products and materials to ensure that the modifications are of high quality and will last for years to come.
As seniors age in place, it’s important to make modifications to their homes to ensure safety and comfort. Design for aging in place includes home modifications such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and wider doorways. These modifications can help seniors maintain their independence and reduce the risk of falls.
In addition to home modifications, age in place home care can provide assistance with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and transportation. Rightsizing and aging in place together can also be beneficial, as it allows seniors to declutter and downsize their living space while still maintaining their independence. Caring Transitions offers professional guidance and support for these transitions, as well as assistance with estate planning and other services. By incorporating these strategies and seeking professional help when needed, seniors can age in place with peace of mind and improved quality of life.
If you are interested in Caring Transitions for relocation or estate liquidation services, contact Mike DeLeon.
When I help a family with a relocation, inevitably there are questions about incorporating technology into the new residence. This is especially common for seniors who may not know about or really even need the latest tech.
The technologies they do need are security systems, internet service for computers, and the device they use every day — the television. These days, it means adapting to the Smart TV.
First, what is a Smart TV?
It is a television with built-in internet connectivity and a user interface allowing you to access online content and applications.
Streaming: Unlike regular TVs, which primarily receive broadcast signals through antennas or cable connections, Smart TVs allow you to stream content from popular services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, browse the web, and even run applications directly on the TV screen. Think of a Smart TV as a television and computer combined into a single device.
Bluetooth: Smart TVs often feature wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (you can even connect hearing aids) allowing you to connect them to various devices in your home network.
Casting and Mirroring: You can cast photos, videos, and music from your smartphone or tablet to your Smart TV wirelessly. Additionally, many Smart TVs support screen mirroring, enabling you to mirror your smartphone or tablet screen directly onto the TV for a larger viewing experience.
Want to know more? Check out Senior Planet from AARP which has a Techspert with articles about technology and educational webinars each month. One of the most recent articles is “3 Cool Things to Know About Smart TVs” is a great place to start and provides step by step instructions on how to connect the Bluetooth.
As a real estate agent dedicated to assisting senior citizens with relocation and often finding their ideal retirement havens, I understand the importance of finding a place that not only meets your unique needs but also fulfills your dreams of a fulfilling and vibrant retirement.
Many of our Atlanta Seniors Real Estate clients are looking south to Florida which has long been revered as a premier retirement destination, and for excellent reasons. With its year-round pleasant weather, stunning natural landscapes, and an array of recreational opportunities, Florida offers an unparalleled retirement experience. Whether you envision yourself basking in the sun on a pristine beach, exploring cultural treasures, or indulging in an active and social lifestyle, Florida has it all.
Wondering where some of the best Florida retirement communities are? Check out the Florida for Boomers webpage which highlights some of the state’s 55+ communities which may not be on your radar quite yet. The website is a great resource for people looking to relocate to senior communities in the sunshine state.
The webpage has specs on communities in Ocala, Naples, Venice, Port St. Lucie, Boynton Beach, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Ft. Myers, among others. It also has details on two of the states most well-known 55+ communities — The Villages and Margaritaville.
If you plan to make that move in the coming days, weeks or months, just reach out to us at your convenience with any questions you may have.
Today, seniors have more choices than ever before when it comes to retirement communities and senior living. Being a real estate agent, we’re often asked about different types of communities, what they’re like, which are most popular, what they cost and the questions continue.
A recent Kiplinger article quoted a lecturer at Georgetown University who sees niche senior communities as the “segment to watch.” It’s certainly growing fast.
There is literally something for everyone and even Disney has plans to get into the 55+ niche community game which already includes:
Latitude: In November 2017, when Buffett announced his first Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, Fla., an active-living property for people “55 and better,” more than 150 fans and other lovers of the flip-flop life camped out overnight at the sales-office for first dibs on 300 properties. Today, Latitude Daytona Beach is a planned community of 7,000 people and there is a waiting list for homes under construction. There is another Latitude in the Florida panhandle, one in North Carolina, and two or three planned for Texas.
Enso Village: In 2016, when the Delaware-based Kendal Corp. announced Enso Village, a life-plan community devoted to Zen tradition in Northern California’s wine country, 1,194 people put down $1,000 for a priority reservation; when the 275 units went on the market in 2020, they sold out in four months; Kendal is now developing a second Enso Village in Southern California.
Nalanda Estates: Near Sarasota, Fla., Nalanda describes itself as an Active Indian Retirement community of 83 homes, and states on its website that it is sold out.
The Villages: Florida’s The Villages–renown as a hotbed of conservative politics and libertine social lives–has sold some 70,000 houses.
If you’re interested in a niche community, Kiplinger suggests you:
Do a self inventory
Consider prices
Create a budget
Go on tours
Learn about its management
Georgia’s list of 55+ communities is growing fast and some niche communities that are open to everyone are even offering amenities designed for active adults. Contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate to learn more about what’s available for you. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
You spend years planning for retirement looking forward to days of a simpler life with years of savings spent on travel and leisure activities. But the reality is that some of the biggest expenses retirees shell out money for often surprise them and have nothing to do with leisure activities.
AARP did some digging and, after speaking with financial advisors, created a list of the top ten expenses that have retirees cutting into their savings and investments.
Stress can be particularly dangerous for older adults — it can even speed up the aging process and exacerbate existing health issues. For this reason, it’s important that caregivers recognize stress, the effect it’s having on the individual, and know of resources and other ways to address/reduce stress.
The National Council on Aging published a recent article that referenced research from the American Institute of Stress which includes a look at the connection between stress and inflammation.
According to the article, “… more stress equals more inflammation, and more inflammation when we’re stressed equals more (or worse) health problems. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, dementia, and cancer, to name a few. The same report notes that chronic stress also can reduce the effectiveness of certain vaccines in older adults, including for the flu and pneumonia. And stress actually accelerates the aging process itself.”
As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), many of my consultations with older adults who are thinking about downsizing and relocating, (a good 10-15% of them) will lead to a discussion about aging in place.
Aging in place can also be about helping clients find a forever home to move to in a new location, which is conducive to the needs of the person and may even help them stretch their finances, depending on how they chose to finance the next place. In some cases though, I consult about staying put… Many wonder why I would do that instead of finding them another home to move to.
Well, the answer is simple… because sometimes the home is already their forever home, IF, and only if, they consider a few changes to ensure the home is better suited to their current needs. My goal is never to move someone who doesn’t need (or want) to move.
Here’s a case study as an example: I visited a lady who had a 2-story home with a guest bedroom and small bathroom on the main floor, and 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms upstairs, which included the owner’s suite. The space was open and spacious on the main level. She had recently become a widow and had paid off the mortgage as instructed by her late husband’s final wish. She loved the community she has lived in for 20+ years but thought it would be best to move to a smaller house. As we talked and did the research, we concluded that the equity in her house would not quite cover the purchase of a forever home and she was not willing to go back to having a mortgage payment of any amount.
The plan of action I suggested was to:
Get quotes to remodel the guest bathroom on the main floor allowing that to become a true main level owner’s suite, accessible for her to live in as opposed to having to go up and down stairs every day.
Get quotes to update the entrances to the home adding accessible features including universal design touch-ups that would allow her to age in place in the current home and not have to experience moving from a place and location she loved and could afford to keep.
Revisit after getting quotes to discuss the options again and consider if she would need additional information to fund the renovations or if moving would be back on the table as an option and how to do that without costing her too much in monthly expenses.
My role as an SRES Realtor was simply to advise and refer contractors or remodeling companies that would incorporate the ADA/universal design features, as well as staying in touch to provide additional information until the homeowner had made their decisions.
We sometimes provide services without financial gain.
We always say real estate is more than property, it’s about the people!
We are available to answer questions you or someone you know has about aging in place or finding your next home. Contact us any time.
Today’s retirees are on the move. Crime, traffic and more and sending many of them away from the cities they’ve lived in for decades but how do they decide where to move next?
A great article called “Politics and Pickleball” looks at some active seniors who searched for their next home but looked at much more than the real estate. The article says that while they consider proximity to family, recreational opportunities, cultural events, and climate, the surprising factor increasingly cited by retirees is — politics.
Some want a state with politics more in line with their own perspectives while others were interested in the opportunities created by being in a place where their own politics may not be the majority.
This time of year in the south, homeowners brace for spring storms and tornadoes. It’s time to prepare and ensure you know what to do if your home or property sustains damage. Know the process and your rights ahead of time — be prepared.
If the process gets bogged down and you’re not getting the results you want, you need to know what to do next.
Kiplinger is out with a brief Q&A to help you navigate dealing with insurance claims for storm damage including:
It has long been feared as one of the deadliest forms of cancer largely because it often goes undetected until it’s too late. Good news is that new treatments are being developed and the survival rate is lengthening. It’s still helpful to know some of the signs of Pancreatic Cancer.
AARP is out with a list of warning signs as well as information about medications being used in the fight against pancreatic cancer. As with most cancers, early detection is key.
Warning signs:
Abdominal discomfort in the mid to upper abdomen that often radiates to the back
New onset diabetes or worsening blood sugar levels, especially with weight loss
Darkening of urine and lightening of stool
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
We tend to think of physical therapy as something prescribed for recovery from an injury but, many feel PT can also be an important tool in preventative care by optimizing movement and promoting health, wellness and fitness.
A recent National Council on Aging article points out that “a physical therapist can make a meaningful impact in your life by helping you to stay independent so you can do the things that matter the most.”
The Council on Aging article answers questions including:
It’s time for a move — perhaps it’s downsizing or moving into housing that offers a level of care that you or a loved one needs. There have never been more options for senior living than now, but with so many choices can come quite a bit of confusion.
The list includes:
RETIREMENT LIVING
Retirement/Active Adult Communities
Senior Apartments
Senior Cohousing
LONG TERM CARE
Assisted Living
In-Home Senior Care
Active Senior Housing
Independent Living
Continuing Care Communities
Congregational Retirement Communities
Nursing Homes
Specialized Care
Hospice
How do you know which type is right for you? Do you know the questions to ask? SeniorLiving.org is out with an update to its Senior Living Guide. They do a great job of explaining the differences between different options. Then, when it’s time to sell your home and relocate, contact a Senior Real Estate Specialists like Atlanta Senior Real Estate to help you with options in your own community.
You may have heard of VITA or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance coalition which offers seniors and others tax preparation assistance. Volunteers offer free basic online tax preparation help to qualified individuals. There is also a program called TCE or Tax Counseling for the Elderly.
VITA and TCE sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country. To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887.
Spring is right around the corner so it’s time to look at spring cleaning. If you’ve been wanting to declutter, this is a perfect time to start.
Senior relocation company Caring Transitions (best known for estate sales, packing/unpacking and more services for senior moves) is out with a list of 6 things to incorporate into your spring cleaning routine.
Rearrange closets Take everything out, put away the winter clothes, and rearrange shelves and hangers to give yourself some extra storage space and make room for lighter pieces.
Clean out your pantry Go through your pantry, fridge, freezers, cabinets, drawers etc., clearing anything that’s expired or unnecessary.
Check for pests Be sure that there aren’t any cracks in windows or doors where creepy crawlies could creep in; check window seals for fungus/mold buildup; replace door mats regularly; thoroughly sweep behind furniture at least once a week.
Wash walls You should always give walls a good scrub before welcoming warmer air indoors – especially after spending months with thicker clothing on stands indoors gathering dust.
Spring clean appliances Be sure all appliances are wiped down with damp cloths or sponges daily and cleaned properly on both inside and outside surfaces every month or two.
Refresh fabrics Fabric such as curtains or bedding absorbs smells from cooking throughout winter months same goes with rugs which need vacuumed & freshened regularly too.
You have taken the time to make an estate plan but often they are fraught with issues that can cause problems for your loved ones down the road if you are incapacitated or pass away. AARP is out with a list of 8 common estate planning mistakes below — important points to check against the estate plan you do have.
If you don’t have a plan, this is the time to make one. And if you do have a plan, it’s suggested that you continue to update it as things change in your life.
Here are AARPs 8 common estate planning mistakes.
Is it complete? Has it been executed or updated?
Do you completely understand your plan? Will it be used as intended?
If there are investments you plan to leave to someone, ensure you own them.
Ensure your plan complies with current laws.
Are you beneficiary designations consistent in all documents?
Will gifts you leave to loved ones cause issues?
Understand tax consequences of your estate plan.
Make sure your loved ones are informed about your plans. AARP suggests a digital accounts access guide.
Seniors toying with the idea of selling a home, downsizing or simply looking to move closer to family found themselves a bit confused with the crazy real estate activity of 2022. While it may have been a great time to sell a home, it was challenging to find another one — especially in the Atlanta area which has been named one of the hottest real estate markets in the country.
So, is 2023 going to be a better year to sell and move into another home? While buyers are returning to the market looking for more reasonable home prices without competing against a dozen other buyers, it really depends on interest rates and, most importantly, homes being priced appropriately.
A recent NBC News article said, “prices will have to be attractive for homebuyers to take on interest rates that remain elevated. Home sellers have already resorted to mortgage buydowns — a type of deal allowing buyers to secure lower rates, at least in the first few years of homeownership — or concessions like new appliances to persuade buyers to sign on the dotted line.”
To navigate this challenging time in real estate, contact a Senior Real Estate Specialist who has the resources available to guide you to a successful and less-stressful transaction. Contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate to learn more.
(From AARP) AARP’s annual Movies for Grownups Awards are back, live from Los Angeles — and you’re invited! Alan Cumming hosts the star-studded special, which will be broadcast by Great Performances on PBS on Friday, Feb. 17, at 9 p.m. ET (check local listings), on pbs.org/moviesforgrownups and the PBS Video app.
Brian Tyree Henry will present the Movies for Grownups Career Achievement Award to Jamie Lee Curtis, whose work is bigger and better than ever at age 64.
The many people who scrutinize the Movies for Grownups Awards for clues to who might also get Oscar nominations — historically, not a bad bet — will notice the most-nominated films: The Fabelmans (6 noms), Everything Everywhere All at Once and The Woman King (5 each), and Tár and She Said (4 each).
But every honored title is significant. We spotlight films and shows that feature crucial issues, thoughtful story lines and the most talented grownup filmmakers and actors who speak directly to the 50-plus audience, the crucial demographic supporting the best work in film and TV. Without grownup audiences, art house films, indies and TV that qualifies as art would not survive — and when audiences flocked back to theaters this year, it was grownups who led the charge. Thanks to AARP and its viewers, there’s more to Hollywood than young stars in superhero spandex.
Real estate transactions for seniors are unique. There are factors to consider that don’t affect younger buyers and you may not have thought about.
Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES) are trained to evaluate and help you understand implications for seniors including the points below (from RetirementLiving.com):
How using pensions and other retirement accounts in real estate transactions work.
The positive sides and the potential downsides of using reverse mortgages.
SRES agents are trained to spot mortgage and other loan schemes that are designed to trick and scam seniors out of their finances or even their homes.
SRES agents will help you understand estate planning and how Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security affect your property and finances as you age.
There are unknown pitfalls of Medicaid, such as their right to recover costs spent on your care even after you die in some situations. An SRES can walk you through scenarios that include your rights and what can happen should you have liens or unpaid medical expenses, most notably through Medicaid Estate Recovery.”
RetirementLiving’s 3 primary benefits of using an SRES:
An SRES understands senior housing options and what they have to offer including Universal Design and other accommodations.
An SRES prepares you for the financial consequences of senior real estate transactions such as how pensions and retirement works in real estate transactions.
An SRES has a wealth of resources to assist you with your relocation including senior relocation companies, senior housing advisors, financial and legal organizations specializing in working with seniors etc.
It’s a concern that affects all of us – how can we keep our brains healthy as we grow older? We want to stay sharp and ward off memory loss when possible. Brain health has a profound effect our ability to enjoy life and keep ourselves healthy and safe.
While you can’t prevent certain medical conditions, there are some simple things you can do to help keep you brain healthy. SeniorLiving.com offers some great tips:
Exercise – get your blood flowing.
Get enough sleep – it helps your brain repair/regenerate.
Eat a healthy diet – health food supports brain health.
Participate in mentally stimulating activities – challenge your brain with puzzles and reading.
Stay social – social connections are key to brain health.
Manage stress – try meditation or yoga.
Avoid risky behavior – avoid smoking and excessive drinking.
Read up on brain health. Many physicians note small things that can make a huge difference such as laughter and ensuring you have a sense of purpose. Senior centers are returning to their pre-Covid schedules and are a great place to get started.
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