Selling a home is an emotional decision at the best of times. Of course, the obvious financial implications are added into the mix. Imagine if you're a senior who has lived in a home for 40 years or is facing a move to a seniors' home. The complexity of the situation goes up a hundred fold.
Major Decision
Factor in falling house prices and selling a home can be a huge dilemma for seniors. Yet they do not have to face this situation on their own. There is help out there for seniors who are contemplating this life-changing decision.
Getting Help
Firstly, seniors need to access trusted sources to help with selling property. Of course, the need for professional advice in this area is a 'given' and it applies to anyone in any age group who is planning to sell a home.
Real Estate Specialist
Seniors can take advantage of the expertise of various Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES) across the country. Everyone may not be aware that there are realtors who specialize in seniors' services. Actually, there are more than 7,000 agents
in 50 US states who hold this designation.
Having this category in the industry makes perfect sense. When selling their homes, seniors have some of the same concerns as any other age group but they also have a separate set of issues. It pays for seniors to enlist the help of a Seniors Real Estate Specialist.
Falling House Prices
Today's seniors have to face the reality of falling house prices. They must confront a common issue - to sell now or wait and sell at a better time. With seniors, however, the issue becomes way more complicated because health issues or having a spouse pass away can increase the urgency of the situation.
Not All Gloom and Doom
Of course, there is always a bright spot in every market. Sometimes a senior who bought their house decades ago for a low price is surprised to see how it has risen in value over 40 years. The home's worth might have decreased in recent years but seniors are often shocked by the market evaluation. Even if seniors are pleased with the price, they still deserve to get the best advantage in today's market. An experienced realtor can guide them through the real estate process.
Their lifestyle will play a huge role in the final decision. Are they able to maintain this home in their present state of health? Are they living in a safe and comfortable environment for their age and condition? Is this the right neighborhood for them anymore? Maybe they no longer drive and need to be near public transportation. Is this the best area to live in at this stage of their lives?
Moving Forward
Seniors need the answers to a thousand and one questions. Industry experts can provide the answers. Health professionals can also advise them about the type of accommodations that would work best for them – whether a smaller home or a seniors' home. After all, selling a house is not just about leaving a home. Seniors also have to consider the cost and implications of moving to another home.
What Challenges Do You Perceive For Seniors Selling Their Homes?
Image courtesy of seniorsrealestateservice.com.au