Common Questions Regarding Senior Home Transitions

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senior citizen; senior home transitioning; senior living transition; real estate for seniors

Recently we’ve spoken to a number of clients who have concerns about their home as they age. You (or someone close to you) may be facing similar questions.

As we all age, our thoughts inevitably turn to the question of the quality of our lives in the future. Where we live is an important part of that equation. We’ve thought about it, and we’ve definitely worked with people who have dealt with the uncertainty.

How will I know when maintaining my home becomes too much? How can I remain comfortable, safe, and independent in my own home? If my home becomes too big for me, how do I find one that meets my needs? Who will protect my interests when it comes time to sell my home?

If you find yourself wondering about these issues, or worrying about them on behalf of an aging parent or friend, we are glad to offer our assistance. As real estate agents with a special interest in senior clients, we’ve had the privilege of helping seniors and their families navigate this phase of life.

Please reach out to us if you’d like to chat. We’re happy to help, even if you don’t necessarily need the answers to these questions for some time yet. Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS 904-422-7626 http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com

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10 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away

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protecting your home; home protection while on vacation; vacation safety; home security

We hope you all have a safe and relaxing time during your vacation this summer. It’s crucial that we all have time to recharge and recognize what’s important in life. We only go around once, so it’s important to savor what we have.

Before you leave town, we thought you might be interested in a few precautionary safety tips to keep your home and your possessions safe whilst you are gone. Often in the run-up to a vacation, people neglect to take simple steps to protect themselves from becoming a victim of theft or vandalism.

You’ve probably covered your bases, but just in case, here are 10 basic precautions you can take:

1. Have someone collect your mail and newspaper daily.
2. Leave shades and blinds in normal positions.
3. Put at least two lights and a radio on automatic timers.
4. Have someone leave trash at your curb on garbage collection day.
5. Have someone park a car in your driveway occasionally. If you leave your car outside, arrange to have it moved every so often.
6. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor in case of an emergency. Let the neighbor know where you are going and when you are expect to return, also leave them a way to get in contact with you in case of an emergency.
7. Lock all windows and doors before you go. Do not forget to double-check basement and garage doors.
8. On extended trips have someone to maintain your landscaping, (grass mowed, leaves raked, etc.)
9. Consider turning off your home’s water main to prevent damage from a burst pipe.
10. Be careful how much you check-in on social media while on vacation. If your privacy settings are incorrect you might reveal to strangers your home is vacant!

Be safe and have a blast…

Tips for Maximizing Small Living Spaces

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bookcases, cabinets, closet organizers, entertainment systems, organization, small spaces, storage, upgrade your home

Clutter driving you nuts? Did you move in with someone only to find you have duplicates of everything from headboards to can openers? Here are 7 tips to help you make the most out of small spaces:

1. Weed out the extras. A yard sale will alleviate some clutter and a trip to the local Goodwill even more. A good rule of thumb: Anything you haven’t needed in a year can go.

2. Bookcases are for more than books! Your walls are your vertical friends for storage, and good book shelving can include plants, valuables, artwork and more.

3. Wall-mount entertainment systems. Television / cable / DVD cabinets are so pre-2000! Free up floor space by going with sleek bolt-in mounts. (Just make sure they’re anchored properly!)

4. Don’t pile it, hang it! This is especially true in kitchens where you can use pot racks, hanging baskets, and even wall-mounted shelving units.

5. Maximize cabinets and closets with organizers. Poor use of cabinet space can easily waste more than 30% of usable “hidden” space. There’s great hardware out there to tune up the interior of your cabinets and closets.

6. Go below. A raised bed is a great way to free up storage space equal to the square footage of your bed. Using baskets and drawers can ensure the below-the-bed storage remains tidy as well.

7. Paint light. Dark walls make small rooms feel smaller. For those rooms that feel a little too close for comfort, dial up the brightness with a fresh coat of a light colored paint.

Remember: Organization and smart storage can turn a tiny home into a cozy abode.

Of course, if you’re ready to upgrade your home rather than squeeze the last few inches out of your existing space, get in touch! We’d be happy to help you search for a new home today: Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS 904-422-7626 http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com