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Top 5 Homebuyer Turnoffs

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.

  1. 54%: Outdated bathrooms
    Think outdated tile, cabinets and countertops. Consider new light fixtures and fresh paint to make the bathroom look bright and clean.
  2. 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.
  3. 41%: Outdated kitchen features (countertops, cabinets etc.)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 Cabinets can be painted but explore replacing outdated countertops and backsplash.
  4. 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.
  5. 30%: Outdated appliances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.

>>Read the full article from Opendoor here and if you’re interested in discussing a home sale or purchase, we’d love to speak with you. Click here to contact us.

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2024 Changes Affecting Senior’s Finances

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.

  1. 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)
  2. 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)
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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When do I get paid for the sale of my house?

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

My best advice is to be patient and take it step by step. If you have any questions, reach out to Atlanta Seniors Real Estate. We’re happy to help.

>>Click here to read the full article on Realtor.com.

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Tips for Preparing Your Home for Storm Season

Preparing your home for storm season in Georgia is essential to protect your property and keep your family safe. We’re prone to weather-related hazards such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flash flooding.

Here’s a helpful guide on how to prepare your home for storm season:

1. Your Family Emergency Plan
Create an emergency plan that includes a designated meeting place, contact information for family members, and an evacuation plan if necessary.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, and important documents. Keep the kit in an easy to access location.

3. Secure Outdoor Items
Store or secure outdoor furniture, grills, table umbrellas and other loose items that strong winds could turn into projectiles. Trim trees and branches to minimize the risk of falling limbs during storms.

4. Check Your Roof and Gutters
Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and repair them. Clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.

5. Weatherproof Doors and Windows
Refresh weatherproofing to ensure it will keep the cold out.

6. Ensure Proper Drainage
Check your property’s drainage systems, including storm drains and sump pumps, and clear any blockages. Install gutter extensions to direct rainwater away from your foundation.

7. Waterproof Your Basement
If you have a basement, consider waterproofing it to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. Some homeowners use a battery-operated sump pump as a backup.

8. Install a Generator
Consider installing a backup generator to ensure you have power during extended outages. Test the generator regularly and keep an adequate supply of fuel.

9. Secure Important Documents
Safeguard important documents like insurance policies, identification, and property deeds in waterproof containers or digitally store them in the cloud. Create digital copies of vital documents and store them securely.

10. Reinforce Garage Doors
Strengthen your garage doors to prevent them from buckling during strong winds. You can look into a garage door bracing system.

11. Stock Up on Supplies
Maintain a supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and other essentials to sustain your family for several days. Keep a battery-operated or hand-crank weather radio for updates.

12. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Have a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, utility companies, and neighbors, readily accessible.

13. Invest in Flood Insurance
Depending on your location, consider purchasing flood insurance to protect against water damage, as standard homeowner’s insurance often doesn’t cover floods.

14. Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings from trusted sources such as the National Weather Service. Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities or media outlets.

15. Evacuation Plan
If you live in a flood-prone area or a designated evacuation zone, have a plan for evacuation, including knowing the nearest shelters and routes to safety.

Preparing your home for storm season in Georgia requires foresight and planning. Preparation helps protect you and your property. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and be ready to respond effectively to whatever Mother Nature sends your way.

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Preparing Your Home for the New Year

As the year draws to a close, it’s time to take stock of your home and ensure that everything is in order for the coming year. Here’s a homeowner’s checklist to help you wrap up the year on a high note and start the new year with peace of mind.

  1. Review Mortgage and Insurance Policies
    Check your mortgage statement for any discrepancies or changes in interest rates. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure it adequately covers your property and possessions.
  2. Evaluate Energy Efficiency
    Consider scheduling an energy audit to identify areas where you can improve energy efficiency. Replace furnace filters and clean out air ducts to ensure your heating system runs efficiently during the winter.
  3. Perform a Safety Check
    Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries as needed. Check fire extinguishers to ensure they are in good working condition. Inspect your home for potential fire hazards, such as faulty wiring or overloaded electrical outlets.
  4. Winterize Your Home
    Insulate doors and windows with weatherstripping to keep warm air in and cold air out. Drain and disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior faucets to prevent freezing. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected if you have a fireplace.
  5. Check for Water Leaks
    Inspect faucets, toilets, and pipes for any leaks. Address them promptly to prevent water damage. Consider insulating exposed pipes to prevent freezing in colder climates.
  6. Clean and Declutter
    Go through each room and declutter by donating or disposing of items you no longer need. Deep clean carpets, upholstery, and drapes. Vacuum refrigerator coils to improve energy efficiency.
  7. Update Home Security
    Test your home security system, including doorbell cameras and motion sensors. Update or change door locks and security codes if necessary.
  8. Prepare for Tax Season
    Organize and file any home-related documents, such as receipts for home improvements or property tax statements. Consult with a tax professional about potential deductions related to homeownership.
  9. Review Home Maintenance Records
    Go through your home maintenance records to ensure you’re up to date on routine tasks like HVAC servicing, roof inspections, and gutter cleaning.
  10. Plan for 2024
    Set home improvement goals and create a budget for projects you’d like to tackle in the coming year. Consider scheduling a professional home inspection to identify any potential issues before they become costly problems.
  11. Save for Future Repairs
    Start or contribute to an emergency fund specifically for home repairs and maintenance.
  12. Reflect on Homeownership Goals
    Reflect on your homeownership goals and consider consulting with a real estate agent to discuss your long-term real estate plans.

By completing this end-of-year checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome the new year with a well-maintained and efficient home. It’s a great way to ensure that your investment continues to provide comfort and security for you and your family. Here’s to a happy and prosperous new year in your beloved home!

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How do you know when it’s time to downsize and relocate?

Part of being a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) is taking the time to truly understand a family’s needs before putting a plan in place. It’s so much more than just buying or selling a home – it’s considering whether the time is right to downsize and relocate to a smaller space. This process involves considering various factors related to a senior’s physical, emotional, and financial well-being.

Here are 12 signs and considerations to help determine if it’s time to downsize that I often share with my clients:

  1. Physical Ability: If daily tasks become challenging due to mobility issues, health concerns, or the size of their current home, downsizing to a more manageable space might be beneficial.
  2. Maintenance and Upkeep: If the current home requires a lot of maintenance and upkeep that is becoming burdensome, downsizing to a smaller place with lower maintenance demands can be a wise choice.
  3. Financial Considerations: Evaluate if the cost of maintaining the current home (property taxes, utilities, repairs) is straining finances. Downsizing can help reduce monthly expenses.
  4. Emotional Well-being: If the senior is feeling isolated or overwhelmed in a large house, moving to a smaller, more social environment (such as a retirement community) could improve their emotional well-being.
  5. Safety Concerns: If the current home poses safety hazards (stairs, slippery floors, difficult-to-navigate spaces), moving to a safer, more accessible living situation might be necessary.
  6. Proximity to Family and Medical Care: Consider the proximity to family members, medical facilities, and services. Moving closer to these resources can provide peace of mind.
  7. Unused Space: If a significant portion of the current home is unused or underutilized, downsizing can help avoid wasting space.
  8. Future Planning: Think about the long-term needs of the senior loved one. A downsized home might be easier to manage as they age, and it could also be more suitable if they require assistance or care.
  9. Desire for a Lifestyle Change: Some seniors want to downsize to simplify their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy retirement without the responsibilities of a larger home.
  10. Sentimental Attachment: While emotional attachment to a home is valid, it’s important to consider whether sentimental value outweighs the practical benefits of downsizing.
  11. Decluttering: Downsizing often requires decluttering and letting go of possessions. If the senior citizen is open to this process, it can lead to a lighter, more organized lifestyle.
  12. Legal and Financial Considerations: Consult legal and financial experts to understand the implications of downsizing, such as selling a home, dealing with property taxes, and managing any inheritance or estate matters.

Ultimately, the decision to downsize should be based on a combination of these factors, the individual’s preferences, and their unique circumstances. Involve the senior in the decision-making process and seek input from family members, friends, and professionals who can provide valuable insights and support.

If you have questions or would like to discuss the process of exploring whether it’s time to downsize and relocate and how to get started, contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate any time.

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Finding the design style that will help sell your house.

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.

>>Click here for the full article and a look at what styles are the most posted on Instagram.

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The easy way to enhance your curb appeal

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.
  • Consult the U.S. Department of Agriculture’ ‘s plant hardiness zone map.
  • Consider native plants that are essential to pollinators.

Click here to read the full article with more tips for planting and maintaining your flower garden.

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Lessons learned from estate planning failures.

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.

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Is it time to live like the Golden Girls?

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.

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Planning for a Gray Divorce

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?

  1. People are living longer so seniors may reevaluate their lives and relationships, seeking personal fulfillment and happiness in their remaining years.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

>>Read the full article here.

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Factors seniors consider when relocating.

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.

Read the full article on NextAvenue.org.

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Handing storm damage insurance claim issues

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:

  • Do I need an attorney?
  • When do you file a complaint against an insurer?
  • Do you need a public adjuster?
  • What if my claim involves an RV?

>>Click here to read the article in its entirety from Kiplinger.

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Moving? Use a Senior Real Estate Specialist.

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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Movie Mogul Helps Out Atlanta Seniors

Tyler Perry has announced that he’s donating $750,000 toward helping older Atlantans on fixed incomes cover rising property taxes. The actor and filmmaker said he wants to ensure the seniors are able to remain in their homes.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens applauded the donation in a statement saying, “Atlanta’s growth and prosperity should not come at the expense of our legacy residents—many of whom have been priced out of their homes in previous years. Tyler Perry has been engaged in our ongoing conversations around legacy resident retention, and he told me he wanted to do something to support these efforts. Thanks to his generosity, more Atlantans will be able to remain in the communities they built.”

The $750,000 donation will go toward:

  • Paying off all back property taxes for every low-income senior in Atlanta. More than 300 low-income seniors currently owe back-taxes. The assistance will cover not only City taxes, but back County and school taxes.
  • Freezing property taxes for 100 low-income seniors by using funds to pay the difference between present day property taxes and property tax increases through a pilot program.

The funds will be administered by Invest Atlanta Partnership, the nonprofit wing of the City’s economic development authority.

>>Read More

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3 Reasons to use a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)

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:

  1. An SRES understands senior housing options and what they have to offer including Universal Design and other accommodations.
  2. An SRES prepares you for the financial consequences of senior real estate transactions such as how pensions and retirement works in real estate transactions.
  3. 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.

>>Read more.

>>Contact SRES Atlanta Seniors Real Estate for a complimentary consultation.

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The 2023 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.

>>Click here to read the full article from Insider.

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During the holidays, beware of scams targeting seniors.

Elder Phone Scam And Fraud Using Credit Card

It’s the holidays and you’re filled with goodwill, warmth, love and a desire to help others. The most wonderful characteristics but unfortunately, they make you a target for scammers. Although The Press & Dakotan (from Yankton, SD) isn’t exactly close to us here in Georgia, the newspaper offers some fantastic information about scammers and how seniors can avoid being scammed.

They also highlight some of the most popular scams that you need to be aware of so check it out and share it with your friends and family. Knowledge is the best protection.

(From The Press & Dakotan) For most of us, the holidays are full of giving, getting and goodwill. But some bad actors use the holidays to take advantage of people’s generous spirits and frequently target older members of our communities more vulnerable to scammers and con artists. Billions of dollars are estimated to be lost by senior adults each year to scammers, according to the National Council on Aging.

Federal, state and local officials across the country have alerted consumers, particularly older people, to be aware of several holiday fraud schemes. If purchasing gifts over a phone or laptop, make sure it’s on a secure network, use a credit card and keep receipts. If purchasing gift cards at a store, take one directly from the counter, not off the rack.

When expecting a lot of packages over the holidays, shippers will often provide updates on the status of an order. Knowing this, scammers send phishing emails pretending to be from companies like FedEx and UPS to lure a person to phony webpages in order to share personal information. Look closely at delivery notifications and email updates before clicking on links or input information. UPS and FedEx won’t ask for personal information via email.

Packages that stack up outside on the porch are also tempting. Consider tracking packages so you’ll know when they’ve arrived. Setting up a different delivery address with a neighbor who is home during the day or your workplace to ensure packages are delivered safely should be considered. If traveling for the holidays, have any mail held at the post office.

Senior citizens have trust in many federal government agencies and scammers know this. Various fraud watch networks are inundated with calls this time of year about scams involving someone impersonating an IRS agent, Medicare official, Social Security Administration officer, or other government worker.  

>>Read the rest of this article.

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4 Assets Your Kids May Not Want to Inherit

Leaving assets to your children has long been considered a thoughtful gift but it can become a burden for recipients. AARP recently published an informative article that may have you rethinking your estate plans especially when it comes to the four assets they highlight.

(From AARP) Leaving your children an inheritance is a blessing, but it can also be a curse, particularly if the items you’re handing down require work, time, money or space.  Consider complicated assets like an antique car or a digital wallet full of cryptocurrency. Sure, your kids will appreciate these assets, but if the possession you’re giving away is too complicated to comprehend or hard to value, it could cause stress. 

“When it’s an asset people don’t understand, it’s very difficult,” says Jean-Luc Bourdon, founder and wealth adviser at Lucent Wealth Planning. He once had a client who inherited a unique car but didn’t know what to sell it for or whom to trust. Instead of unlocking the value, she held on to the vehicle.  ​

Even IRAs and 401(k)s can be problematic, since they aren’t easy to transfer to the next generation or your children hold on to them for sentimental value. The same goes for expensive furniture, ceramics and collectibles that take up space or are hard to get rid of.

“The most common assets [kids don’t want] have some type of obligation attached to them to maintain value,” says Joseph McNair, a certified financial planner at WA Asset Management. “The closer to cash the assets are, the less cumbersome they are.”

>>Read the full article here.

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10 Tips for Safely Organizing Your Parents Home

(From Caring Transitions of Northeast Atlanta)
As our parents reach a certain age, many prefer to stay in their home, rather than move to a senior community or living facility. The unfortunate truth is many times our parents live in homes that weren’t built with the safety and health of a senior adult in mind. But there are avenues we can take as the adult child, or caretaker, to help create a safer environment so our parents in age-in-place with peace of mind.

  1. Store at Waist Height
    As we age, our joints, strength and balance deteriorate. This means that bending down and reaching above our heads is difficult for most seniors. Make sure to check that all the items your parents need is stored at waist level, or in easy to reach places that won’t cause them discomfort to find.
  2. No Clutter by the Steps
    Ideally, seniors should avoid the stairs as much as possible. We even recommend arranging their home so your parents can stay on the first floor of their home. But if they insist on taking the stairs, check that it is clear of all clutter and there is a sturdy hand railing for balance support installed.
  3. Light The Way
    Our eyesight grows worse as we age so having good lighting throughout your parents’ home is essential to avoid health crises like a fall. Make sure all the bulbs are fresh in the hallways, basement, attic and anywhere you know your parents spend the most amount of their time.
  4. A Basket by the Stairs
    Find a basket to attach on the wall by the stairs. This is a great device for seniors carrying items back and forth, as well as reminding them what they need to bring with them, up or down.
  5. Rolling Carts for the Kitchen
    Rolling carts are great for the kitchen or rooms without carpet. Your senior parent can use it to move items like groceries, pots, pans, etc. without much effort.
  6. Important Documents All In 1 Place
    We highly recommend keeping all essential documents in one place, such as a wellness folder with all important medical information. This makes it easier to grab in case there’s an emergency, or if your parents need to find their passport, social security card or any other document they may need.
  7. Medication List on the Fridge
    Most seniors take a laundry list of medication as they get older. And for many, keeping track gets harder and harder as their memory starts to falter. Put a list on the fridge, with the day and amount to take. This is a great place as it’s in a prominent area that your parents will visit often and see daily.
  8. Remove Those Rugs
    A change in elevation can be a sudden shock for a senior adult whose reflexes are low and eyesight is bad. Check that all unnecessary rugs have been removed from walking spaces to prevent accidents.
  9. Safety Bar in the Bathroom
    With balance and possible nerve damage from diseases like diabetes, a senior may have trouble lifting themselves out of a seated position. Installing grab bars in the shower and by the toilet are essential support items to have in your parent’s home.
  10. Who Does What List
    As they say, it takes a village, right? Taking care of a home can be overwhelming, especially with caretaking for aging parents added to that. Splitting the tasks between your family members, caretakers and a friendly neighbor will be important so no one person carries the entire load alone. Create a list of who will do which task, and when, so you can have peace of mind that Mom and Dad will be well taken care of moving forward

Read more at: 10 Tips To Safely Organize The Home For Mom & Dad > Caring Transitions and visit Caring Transitions of Northeast Atlanta – Caring Transitions to learn more about Caring Transitions senior relocation services including liquidations, relocations and more.

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Thank you, Norcross First United Methodist Church!

I was so happy to make a presentation today to the senior group at the Norcross First United Methodist Church. We talked about the challenges seniors face when it comes to downsizing, selling a home and relocating. We discussed universal design — what it is and why it’s important to look for as we age. This group had wonderful questions and it was such a pleasure to meet everyone. Their hospitality was only exceeded by the delicious lunch.

If your organization is interested in a speaker to discuss real estate and, in particular, the unique real estate needs of active adults and seniors, please let me know. Contact me by clicking here.

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13 Tax Breaks for Homeowners & Buyers

A quick and informative read from Kiplinger

Uncle Sam has a few tax tricks up his sleeve to help you buy a home, save on home-related costs and sell your home tax-free. Some of them are complicated, limited or come with hoops you have to jump through, but they can be well worth the trouble if you qualify. And if your budget is already stretched thin, you need all the help you can get. So, without further ado, here are 13 tax breaks that can help you buy a home and prosper as a homeowner.

  1. Using retirement funds for down payment
  2. Mortgage points deduction
  3. Mortgage interest deduction
  4. Mortgage interest credit
  5. Home office expense deduction
  6. Credits for energy saving improvements
  7. Credit for electric vehicle charging equipment
  8. Deduction for medically necessary home improvements
  9. Deduction of rental expenses
  10. Property tax deduction
  11. Foreclosure or short sale debt forgiveness
  12. Capital gain exclusion when selling home
  13. Increased basics when selling your home

Read more about each of these: 13 Tax Breaks for Homeowners and Home Buyers | Kiplinger

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New Trends in Retirement Living

What are the latest trends in retirement living? There’s a definite move toward accommodating retirees focusing on health, wellness and nature. Here’s a great article from Next Avenue about the latest trends.

In 2008, Janice Barton was vacationing at Serenbe, a biophilic, or nature-centered, community in the Chattahoochee Hills about 30 miles outside of Atlanta. She fell in love with the village’s English-style cottages, outdoor artist studio, nature trails, local shops and café all within walking distance, and decided to buy her forever home there.

“In a typical suburb, you drive into your garage, shut the door and that is it,” explained Barton, who at 73 is a solo ager. “Maybe you know your neighbors on either side or across the street but you don’t have anything in common so you don’t want to invest the time and energy. At Serenbe, I feel younger because I am engaged and I’m living a more vibrant life.”

Serenbe and other new amenities-laden retirement communities illustrate how the senior living industry is going through a transformation that has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre-pandemic Americans age 65+ expressed the desire to stay living in their homes as long as possible; the social isolation imposed by the pandemic has solo agers — the 12% of the population who, according to AARP, are widowed, divorced or without adult children to care for them — rethinking the desire to age alone at home.

>>Read the full article from Next Avenue.

***What is Next Avenue? A very cool concept – click here to learn more about this resource for older Americans.

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How a move manager can help you downsize

A recent Washington Post article looks at “how a move manager can help you trim down on your belongings.”  There are several of these companies in the Atlanta area including franchises Caring Transitions and Smooth Moves. They are extremely helpful for homeowners or their adult children who need to clean out, liquidate items or pack in advance of a move or to simply ensure the space is clutter-free, clear and safe.

Like a senior real estate specialist (SRES), these organizations specialize in helping older adults downsize and relocate. Check out this article from the Washington Post and here are links to a couple of the senior move managers in Atlanta.

They will provide you with a quote for the services you need.