seniors real estate specialist

How many people reach their mid-twenties with 4 grandparents?  I am blessed to have had that experience. Not only did they watch me start my career; they were a part of it.  I had the experience of renovating, renting, buying, and selling residential and commercial real estate with all of my grandparents.  This led me to more senior clients, and to the realization that I loved working with seniors.  

"Seniors Real Estate Specialist" is a designation from the National Association of REALTORS® that requires extended coursework regarding working with clients over the age of 50 and their unique situations.  Now, before you get offended that Realtors® refer to your 50-year-old self as a "senior," please know that I have sat down with countless people over the age of 50 and we have agreed that they are not "seniors" by our standards!  Not only does the SRES® designation train real estate professionals in the needs of elderly people; it also addresses the needs of those folks downsizing when the kids move out, those looking for less house to take care of, those looking to cash in that hard-earned money on a vacation home, and those in multi-generational households (folks living with their growing children and their aging parents all under one roof. (God bless.)). Working with my grandparents and other seniors has given me first-hand experience with some of the unique needs of seniors that require knowledge and expertise from a real estate professional.  Handicap accessibility is often vague in listings, and previews by an agent alone can be hugely helpful to avoid wasting clients' time and energy.  I have found that many times seniors are leery of navigating the fast-paced and ever-changing world of technology to complete the sale of one of their biggest assets, and I can't blame them.  This process should never feel pushed or rushed.  Some seniors are more comfortable doing business over the phone instead of by text or email, and prefer paper contracts to signing online, and I am more than happy to accommodate. (Oftentimes, I prefer it, as more conversations tend to lead to more clarity for all parties and a smoother transaction, overall!)

"Clients 50 and over" encompasses a huge range of possible life situations and accommodations necessary, which is why I believe conversation is of the utmost importance in these transactions. I want to understand exactly what kind of change my clients are looking for, who their most important decision-makers and influencers are, what their goals are, and how emotional the process is for them.  This is an important time to make plans for unique needs of the present, anticipate needs of the future, and to figure out what makes the most sense and leads to the most comfort physically, emotionally, and financially.  And in order to do that, I like to get to know my clients!

Preparing a longtime residence for sale can be a slow and emotional process, and oftentimes an overwhelming one.  Transitions take time, and often decisions do too.  If you are considering selling a longtime residence, it's never too early to contact me to discuss the sale process.  I can give you an idea on price, help you determine what should be done to the house to prepare it for its next owners, and give you some options to increase the value if you choose to have any renovations done.  As always, this is a pressure-free consultation where we can share ideas and help you make a plan to achieve your real estate goals in your own timeframe. 

I hope to have the chance to discuss your real estate needs with you in the future and show you the excellent service provided by an SRES®.