As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist with a decade of experience, I understand the importance of a smooth transition for older adults during their relocations because I have witnessed the challenges faced by older adults during downsizing, resizing, or relocating.
In my work, I’ve partnered with local movers, which has been helpful for my clients to keep the stress down when they don’t know who to trust. Remember, protecting your move starts with informed choices and prioritizing safety and peace of mind – trust your gut, if something feels off, it probably is.
Clients often come to me with questions about home insurance and how to best protect themselves in their new home. Questions have intensified over the past couple of years with increasing reports of wildfires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and a myriad of other risks that can damage property.
Understanding what’s covered and what’s not can save you from unexpected financial burdens. A recent Kiplinger article provides a good guide on the topic.
What’s generally covered:
1. Dwelling: Damage to your house and attached structures like porches or garages. 2. Other Structures: Damage to standalone structures on your property. 3. Personal Property: Reimbursement for damaged or lost possessions. 4. Loss of Use: Coverage for temporary living expenses during repairs. 5. Personal Liability: Protection against lawsuits for injuries or damages on your property.
Common Inclusions:
Natural Disasters: Most policies cover damage from events like hurricanes, fires, and snowstorms, including detached structures.
Contents: Home insurance typically covers the contents of your home, but evidence may be required for claims.
Temporary Living Expenses: Expenses like hotel bills during repairs are often included, though with limitations.
Liability Protection: Coverage extends to legal fees and medical bills for injuries on your property.
What’s NOT covered:
1. Floods: Standard policies don’t cover flood damage; separate flood insurance is necessary, especially in flood-prone areas. 2. Earthquakes, Landslides, and Sinkholes: Damage from these events requires additional coverage, especially in high-risk regions. 3. Water Leaks: Sudden leaks are covered, but damage from neglect or poor maintenance isn’t. 4. Mold: Unless caused by a covered peril, mold damage typically isn’t covered. 5. Valuables: Items like jewelry and collectibles may require additional coverage beyond standard plans. 6. Home Office Equipment: Business equipment may have limited coverage; additional endorsements may be needed.
Understanding your home insurance policy is essential to ensure you’re adequately protected against potential risks. If you’re unsure about your coverage, make a list of questions/concerns and contact your provider who can tailor your coverage for your needs.
It’s the question we get all the time — “When is the best time of year to sell our house?”
According to a recent report from Realtor.com, sellers eyeing a 2024 sale won’t want to miss out on the upcoming sweet spot in the market — this spring is it. Why?
Less Competition Expect 40% less inventory compared to pre-pandemic levels, giving sellers a competitive edge.
More Interested Buyers With 22.8% more buyer views per listing, sellers can anticipate heightened interest in their properties.
Quick Sales Homes are projected to sell 17% faster during this week, thanks to favorable market conditions.
Higher Prices Listing prices are $34,000 higher than at the start of 2024, providing sellers with potentially higher returns.
Fewer Price Reductions With 24.6% fewer homes featuring price reductions, sellers can maintain their asking prices more effectively.
For sellers looking to capitalize on this opportune moment, preparation is key. Start by considering these essential steps:
Curb Appeal – spruce up the property’s exterior
Professional Guidance – begin discussions with your real estate agent
Price Strategy – your realtor will help you right price your home to sell
It’s true that many people don’t want to sell because they are worried about higher mortgage rates but this is a great opportunity for seniors who are often looking at downsizing and have flexibility in where they live. They’re not tied to a local school or being close to the office. And many of our clients, are very open to renting.
If you or a retired family member is considering selling, contact us to learn how real estate transactions involving seniors are unique and there are different factors to take into consideration. Schedule a consultation with us today.
Older adults looking to downsize and relocate to be closer to their adult children are finding places like Silver Summit Condominiums in Conyers, GA very appealing. Having worked within this active adult community since 2017 as the Seniors Real Estate Specialist for retirees, I have a good take on why it’s an excellent housing option.
Purpose-Designed Homes Silver Summit homes are thoughtfully designed for aging in place. Everything on one level, spacious and open for varying types of mobility, minimum of 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, lots of storage space and a two-car garage for the convenience of getting out of your car and entering your kitchen which most retirees love. The added bonus for most of the units in Silver Summit is the beautiful bright sunroom. Most units have modern features while some could use an upgrade from when most of them were built in 2006/7. There are 8 units that were built in 2018 that feature more update finishings, such as smart-tech for the HVAC controls, alarm system, and appliances. The accessible level counters, roll-in shower and stepless entrances are some of obvious universal design features.
Well maintained Amenities Silver Summit offers a range of amenities that cater to an active lifestyle. A welcoming clubhouse space for homeowner meetings, socializing and community events. The pool is perfect for relaxation and staying fit or enjoying with the grandkids on their rare visits. There is also an exercise room kitted out with ellipticals, treadmill, weights and mats, ideal for maintaining physical health without having to leave the community. The community is designed around one street in and out, which has become the ideal walking track for some residents.
Low Maintenance Living No more weekend chores unless you are tending to your patio plants! The exterior maintenance of homes in Silver Summit is handled by the HOA. No more mowing, painting, or roof repairs. Designed with older adults in mind, these single-story homes prioritize convenience and comfort, all you have to be concerned with is the interior of the home. The HOA fee will cover all exterior features and amenities as well as water, sewer, trash, termite and fire sprinkler maintenance.
Lower Property Taxes Property taxes in active adult communities tend to be significantly lower than those in traditional neighborhoods but also due to the homestead exemption that is given to residents who qualify with age and other status that each county offers.
Convenient Location The convenience of being able to walk to Shopping & Dining within 5-10 minutes attracts many who live at Silver Summit. A short drive allows for visits to the new Salem Gate shopping complex, or Ga 20 toward Publix and Target or just across the street for Kroger. Everything including clinics, hospital, gas stations and hotels are within easy reach.
Safety and Security Active adult communities prioritize safety. Residents can feel secure in a well-maintained environment that has a camera monitor for the entrance of the community and sometimes sees our local police showing their presence. The sense of community fosters watchfulness and support among neighbors.
Vibrant Social Life Silver Summit residents come together to encouraged socialization through organized trips, classes, and special interest groups. Regular newsletter updates invite all residents to engage and make friends with fellow residents who share similar life stages and interests.
Health and Well-Being While there is not specific health care service affiliated to the community, the community’s amenities promote physical activity and engagement, and residents share information with each other about services that can benefit their well-being needs.
Silver Summit Condominiums offer a blend of comfort, community, and convenience. Whether you’re a retiree seeking an active lifestyle or an adult child researching options for your parents, Silver Summit is a place to call home.
Don’t Wait Until Retirement!
If retirement is on the horizon, consider the benefits of active adult living now. I can’t tell you how many people wished they had made the move earlier. The stories from our clients are endless when it comes to how their lifestyle was enhanced by moving to an active adult community.
For more information, visit the official website or contact Hilary Walker at 678.609.8019 or email hilary@atlantaseniorsrealestate.com. You can also use the button below to search for homes. Select Master on Main to narrow the search for active adult and senior living properties. You can contact us to discussion options and receive a unique link for your active adult home search in any area.
With years under my belt as a real estate agent, one thing that I know for certain is that moving is exhausting. Clients often feel overwhelmed just thinking about it.
One of the best tools to help manage those feelings is a checklist. It helps you stay focused and organized.
Smooth Mooove Senior Relocation Services shared a list with me recently that I’ll paste below. If you need assistance with moving, they’re a great resource and they offer a free estimate.
The Moooving Checklist
☐ First assignment: Decide what to keep, sell, or giveaway.
☐ Sort through your belongings: Give heirlooms to children and relatives who have room for them. Create donation bins.
☐ Decide whether to move yourself or hire professionals. Make reservations with a moving company or truck rental company.
☐ If hiring a mover, call three companies for estimates, ensuring they are licensed, bonded, insured, and DOT registered. Inquire about their employment status (W-2 employees, 1099 contractors, or day labor).
☐ Make travel arrangements if moving a long distance: Airline, hotel, and rental car agency.
☐ Save all moving receipts for potential tax deductions. Check the current tax code for requirements.
☐ Place legal, medical, financial, and insurance records in a safe and accessible place. Scan documents so you always have a backup.
☐ Purchase replacement coverage for valuables to be moved.
☐ Have antiques, art pieces, and other valuables appraised for insurance purposes.
☐ Begin decluttering: Start with the basement, attic, garage, and other non-used areas.
☐ Use up foods and cleaning supplies that cannot be moved.
☐ Change your address on USPS.com.
This checklist is just a start. Companies like Smooth Mooove also provide moving supplies and other resources o just ask about things you’ll need to ensure yours is a smooth one.
Studies show that 90 percent of adults over 65 prefer to age in place rather than relocate to a senior living community. The good news is that new technologies are making it easier to support independent living for seniors.
One effective approach to enhancing livability is by incorporating universal design. It’s creating spaces that are accessible and functional for people of all ages and abilities. By adding features such as grab bars, widened doorways, and non-slip flooring, homes can be made safer and more accommodating for aging residents.
Technology plays a crucial role in facilitating aging in place. There are four main categories of technology that can help seniors remain in their homes longer:
Communication and Engagement: Tools like video calling platforms and social media can help older adults stay connected with friends and family, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Health and Wellness: From wearable fitness trackers to remote monitoring devices, technology can support seniors in managing their health and maintaining independence. Medication reminders and telehealth services are also valuable resources.
Learning and Contribution: Online learning platforms and digital volunteering opportunities empower older adults to continue learning and making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Safety and Security: Smart home devices, such as motion-sensor lights and smart locks, enhance home security and provide peace of mind for seniors and caregivers. And devices can contact emergency services when needed.
For caregivers supporting older adults, technology can streamline caregiving tasks and improve efficiency. From mobile apps for medication management to online resources for caregiver support, there are a variety of tools available to assist caregivers.
Explore technology that can help with a senior aging at home and, importantly, remain open to the signs that you or a loved one may need to relocate for health and safety reasons. There could be a need for additional care and attention or a living space that is more manageable and designed specifically for aging residents.
10 Things to do before you put the “for sale” sign in your yard.
One of the first questions I get from clients is how to prepare their home to go on the market? It’s a topic that can overwhelm a homeowner who is making a real life change.
Here are ten quick tips I give clients to give them the best chance of getting top dollar for their home.
Declutter and Depersonalize: Declutter and depersonalize the house. Remove personal items (yes, all the family photos), excessive furniture, and unnecessary belongings. A clean and clutter-free space helps the buyer see themselves in the home.
Deep Clean: A clean home is a marketable home. It shows the homeowner cares about home maintenance. Clean vents, fans, baseboards, windows and carpets. If you can’t do it yourself, it’s worth bringing someone in for a cleaning before we start showing the home to buyers.
Make Necessary Repairs: Address issues that might deter potential buyers such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and holes in the wall.
Refresh Paint and Finishes: A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revitalizing your home’s appearance. Stick to neutral colors to appeal to a broader range of buyers and touch up areas that may have chipped paint.
Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Spruce up your home’s exterior by landscaping, mowing the lawn, and adding potted plants or flowers. Ensure that the front door and exterior are in top-notch condition to create a welcoming entryway.
Stage Your Home: Arrange furniture to showcase the flow of each space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. I often recommend a stager if that is what is needed to sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.
Set the Right Price: I’ll research comparable home sales in the area to determine a competitive and realistic asking price. Overpricing your home can discourage potential buyers, while underpricing might leave money on the table.
Create an Online Presence: I will also ensure my client’s home is advertised online and that there are photos to draw in prospective buyers.
Gather Necessary Documents: Streamline the closing process by gathering important documents in advance. This includes property records, warranty information, and any relevant paperwork on recent improvements or repairs.
Be Flexible and Open to Feedback: It’s also important that sellers be flexible with showings and listen to buyer feedback. Being adaptable can speed up the sale process.
I remind sellers it’s important to detach from the home they’re selling and focus on what’s next for them. It’s tough especially for families who have lived in a home for decades, but it helps the process go more smoothly.
Have questions about selling your home and looking for your next one? Reach out to us at Atlanta Seniors Real Estate – we’re here to help.
When seniors and their families come to me, it’s often because they’re ready to sell a home and downsize. They want easier living and prefer to spend less and money time maintaining their home. For some, that means looking at senior apartments.
The benefits? There are many. Here’s our Top 7.
Frees up time. You don’t have to deal with homeowner responsibilities like repairs and maintaining the yard. You will have more time to spend on hobbies or with family and friends.
Amenities. Many senior apartment communities these days come with a pool, hot tub, clubhouse, a gym, game room, and some even have on-site theaters or bowling alleys.
Designed for seniors. Senior apartment designers usually have included features for seniors like grab bars in the bathroom, non-slip flooring, easy to reach cabinets, and other accessibility features.
Social life. Senior apartment residents say that they appreciate living near others at the same phase of life. They enjoy social activities and gatherings together in the community.
Transportation. You may find that the community provides transportation services to shopping centers, medical appointments and often day trips and excursions for residents.
Security. Increasingly senior apartments have security in place to provide residents with peace of mind. The community may be gated or the buildings may have security. Most have cameras and lighting to provide a more secure environment.
Progressive living. In our area, many senior apartments are located in communities that also offer other services as needed such as assisted living.
When my clients are considering selling their home and we want to get top dollar, I really encourage them to take a look from a purchaser perspective. Being aware of what things turn off a buyer is essential.
Opendoor did some research and found the top turnoffs for buyers. If you’re thinking about making any improvements this year and know you’ll be selling at some point in the future, this can be quite helpful.
54%: Outdated bathrooms Think outdated tile, cabinets and countertops. Consider new light fixtures and fresh paint to make the bathroom look bright and clean.
49%: Old carpet Old carpet can be overwhelming and distract from other features in the home. If you can’t afford to replace it, ensure it is clean and stains are treated.
41%: Outdated kitchen features (countertops, cabinets etc.) It’s generally the most used room in the house so it needs to function well. Cabinets can be painted but explore replacing outdated countertops and backsplash.
32%: Textured ceilings It can be costly to have them scraped and painted but some homeowners can do it themselves. Either way, that clean, flat ceiling can make a big impact on a room.
30%: Outdated appliances Old appliances need to go but if you can’t replace them, ensure they’re clean and working. Some sellers are able to turn a quirky, vintage appliance into a selling feature perhaps in a midcentury modern home but it’s rare.
Also, pay attention to curb appeal. The appearance of your home’s exterior sets the tone for what the buyer will find inside. They’ll start calculating at the curb what they’ll need to spend to make the home livable for them.
When families come to Atlanta Seniors Real Estate to discuss selling a home, buying a new home, or searching for a senior living or retirement community, one of the first discussions we have is about finances. That conversation will help guide decisions and illuminate the choices they have.
2024 has brought with it financial changes that retirees will want to be aware of — changes in Medicare, Social Security, taxes, retirement plan contributions and more.
AARP looks at some of the changes in a recent article which looks at the points below.
Social Security – The cost-of-living adjustment will raise monthly payments by 3.2% and the average retirement benefit will climb nearly $60 a month. (read more about Social Security changes here)
Medicare – Standard premiums for Medicare Part B are seeing a 6% increase to $174.70 a month and the annual deductible climbs to $240. (read more about Medicare changes here)
Retirement Plans – The contribution limit went up $500 so seniors can now put up to $8,000 into an IRA for 2024 including a $1,000 catch-up contribution.
Required Minimum Distributions – It used to be that Roth IRAs were not subject to the required yearly withdrawals while the owner is alive but now that exception will also apply to Roth 401(k) and 403(b) accounts. The age for RMDs went up to 73 last year.
Standard Tax Deductions – If you or your spouse is 65 or older, he deduction for a single filer or head of household is up $1,000 from 2022 and up $200 for couples filing jointly.
Full Retirement Age – The Social Security full retirement age has been gradually increasing and will reach 66 and 8 months later this year.
>>Click here to read the article in its entirety on AARP.org.
Once a home sale is imminent, I’m always asked — “How soon will the money be in my bank account?” It sounds like an easy enough question, but there’s not always an easy answer.
The answer depends on several factors — not too surprising as a real estate transaction can be a complex process. A recent article on Realtor.com looked at the money from offer to closing and when a home seller can expect those transfers into their bank account.
Earnest Money – Generally between 1-5% of the purchase price paid within 3 days of signing the purchase contract to demonstrate that the buyer is serious about the property. Some refer to it as a “good faith deposit.” If the buyer backs out and breaks the contract (and the seller is not at fault) the seller gets to keep the earnest money.
Down Payment – A down payment shows the bank or lender that the buyer has the money to pay back the loan they’re getting and is made after the deal is approved by the bank.
Wait – The lender will likely have a list of obligations to be met at this point — things like an appraisal, inspection, repairs, disclosures, contingencies and more. The contract will outline when these will take place. On average, the closing process takes 50 days.
Closing Day – This is when the buyer gets the money. After the real estate transaction is closed and all fees/commissions are paid, escrow pays the seller. These days, that’s a wire transfer and happens quickly.
If you’re interested in making energy-efficient home improvements, you might want to check out the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) which was passed last year. It encourages homeowners and renters to move toward clean energy by providing incentives including tax credits and rebates.
One of the changes that has been in the news recently is moving away from gas stoves and toward alternatives like induction heat. Other home improvements include replacing gas water heaters, new windows and doors, insulation, and adding solar panels.
A recent SRES blog says some of the available IRA tax credits for homeowners include:
Home energy audits – A 30% tax credit (up to $150).
Heat pumps – A 30% tax credit for the costs of buying and installing a heat pump.
Windows and skylights – A30% tax credit (up to $600 annually) on exterior windows and skylights.
Electric vehicles – Up to $7,500 toward the purchase of a new electric vehicle (EV) and up to $4,000 toward the purchase of a used EV.
Here are some great resources SRES.org offers for more details:
Internal Revenue Service (https://www.irs.gov/inflation-reduction-act-of-2022). Stay current on IRS updates on IRA and find the appropriate tax form (Form 5695) to calculate and take residential energy credits.
When I meet with many families considering selling a home, they’re often wondering how best to spruce the place up to make it as appealing as possible to buyers. Many have been scrolling through social media looking for ideas and styles. They’re tracking trends on Instagram, looking at ideas on Houzz, or checking Pinterest Boards.
So, what styles really are the most appealing to buyers? Is it industrial, modern farmhouse, midcentury modern or, two of the newest trends, grandmillennial and coastal grandmillennial?
A recent article for the National Association of Realtors looks at the most popular trends on Instagram which are a great guide and provide inspiration when staging a home for sale. When listing homes representing some of the highly sought after styles, we can use hashtags of those designs in online listings to draw in prospective buyers who may have otherwise skipped over looking at a property.
Whether you are planning to sell your home or you want to age in place and enjoy your home for years to come, flowers can alter the perception of a home. Vibrant blooms will enhance your curb appeal and draw prospective buyers to your house, or the blooms can simply create lasting joy for the homeowner.
Consider landscaping with plants that will bloom year-round — it just requires a little planning but delivers a big return.
A recent AARP article provides practical tips on how to make the most of your outdoor space including:
Contact your local extension service to get a soil test.
Make needed adjustments to the soil and evaluate the planting area.
Choose plants that will work best in your environment.
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.
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.
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.
If you’re planning to buy or sell real estate, it’s a good idea to consider working with a senior real estate specialist or SRES like Atlanta Seniors Real Estate.
Here are a few reasons why an SRES will be beneficial:
Experience: A senior real estate specialist has extensive experience working with clients who are 50 years of age or older. This means they understand the unique needs and concerns of seniors when it comes to real estate transactions.
Knowledge: SRES designees have received specialized training in senior real estate, including topics like reverse mortgages, age-restricted communities, and estate planning. They are equipped to provide expert advice and guidance on these topics.
Connections: Senior real estate specialists often have strong connections with other professionals who work with seniors, such as estate planning attorneys, financial planners, and senior living communities. They can help you build a network of resources to assist you in making informed decisions.
Advocacy: A senior real estate specialist can serve as your advocate throughout the real estate transaction, ensuring that your interests are protected and your needs are met.
Overall, working with a senior real estate specialist can help ensure a smoother and more successful real estate transaction, especially if you or a loved one is a senior.
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.
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.
A CNBC report recently looked at the country’s hottest real estate markets for 2023 and found their top ten all had one thing in common – they’re in the south. Atlanta leads the list which looked at such things as affordability, housing availability, and job growth.
The report shows that Atlanta, with its median home price of $371K, allows more than the national average of renters to afford a home. Plus, the city’s real estate ranking is boosted by numerous tech companies relocating to the area.
This is good news for seniors wanting to make a change whether downsizing, moving closer to their children or exploring senior living options. For many, the time is right to list your home or at least start making preparations to take advantage of buyers wanting to move to the country’s hottest real estate market.
What do real estate professionals think is in the housing forecast for this year?
Insider talked to real estate and real estate technology professionals about what they anticipate for 2023 when it comes to both commercial and residential real estate transactions and development. Among comments – big growth expected in the southeast, more emphasis on housing affordability, and watching to see how inflation impacts buyers and sellers.
It’s good information and interesting perspective about what lies ahead for all of us whether we are in the real estate business or you’re a home buyer or owner.
Realtor.com is out with its real estate predictions for 2023 and one Georgia city makes its top ten list of housing markets positioned for growth. Augusta, GA ranks sixth on the list. The article recognizes that remote work is allowing families to seek out affordable housing in cities with strong economies as alternatives to larger and more expensive locations.
(Excerpt from Realtor.com)
The move toward affordability will continue in 2023, as high prices and mortgage rates drive buyers to find lower-priced homes. The top markets expected to perform well next year offer a solid mix of local economic conditions, proximity to larger employment centers, and critically, more affordable housing. Even in an environment where families are finding that their dollars no longer stretch as far as they did just a few months ago, cities like Hartford, El Paso, Louisville, or Chattanooga offer a larger share of affordable homes for a median income.
In the Top 10 metros for 2023, about 23% of housing inventory is affordable at the median income level, a noticeable improvement from all the other markets. When considering all other markets and excluding the Top 10, only 17% of available homes for sale are affordable to a household earning the median income. And that affordability picture worsens considerably in the 10 metros where sales and price growth is expected to be weakest in 2023. In these areas less than 4% of inventory is financially attainable to a family earning the local median income.
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