Ask Our Agent-Sandra Maschi

AskourAgent

Sandra Maschi is our real estate expert. In this issue we ask her about downsizing!

Q: What is the most sought after amenity for people downsizing?

A: The MOST sought after amenity for downsizing clients is first floor master bedroom and bath.

Q: What are other amenities that people are looking for when downsizing? How important are elevators…really?

A: Elevators are not in high demand, or necessary, when downsizing but a few buyers still request them, regardless of the cost. Other amenities buyers are looking for when downsizing is less property, lower taxes, and sometimes an extra main level bedroom for an elderly parent that may be moving in or already living with their baby boomer adult children.

Q: What are your thoughts on reverse mortgages?

A: A reverse mortgage is only really necessary and recommended if your fixed income is not enough for everyday living and expenses.

Q: What would you suggest about finance options when considering downsizing?

A: I recommend, if your children have all moved out, consider refinancing to a 15 year mortgage so you can pay it before getting ready to retire.

Q:What major trends are you seeing? What major trends have you seen go away? Which one was your favorite to disappear? ie: thank goodness shag carpets are no longer a thing!

A:What is trendy now is hardwood floors throughout the main and upper level, including bedrooms.

Neutral wall colors throughout is what I recommend, because it never goes out of style, and you can add color to accent pieces, such as bedspreads, pillows, couches, and wall decor

I was very happy to see the giant hood fan start to disappear. Once the focal point in open-concept kitchens, the overstated hood fan is now very yesterday, with designers now seamlessly integrating it into the cabinetry.

Q:What would you tell people the most important update would be for best return?

A: I recommend updating kitchens and baths to maximize the best return on their money when they are ready to sell.

Q: How important is staging a home before selling it? Decluttering?

A: Staging is not as important as, neat clean and bright with no cluttered areas, as well as making sure the home does not have an odor from pets or smoke. Buyers usually WILL NOT buy a home with an odor.

Q:How do you handle people being very sentimental about their family home and “treasures” they have collected over the years?

A: If clients have too many sentimental items, I suggest getting a small storage unit near the area where they plan to move. When they are in their new home they can take their time to go through those items at a later date.

Q:Where do you see most empty nesters moving to? Over 55 communities? Townhomes? Into the city out of the suburbs? Out to the suburbs from the city?

A: Most 55+ buyers are either buying in adult communities with clubhouse, pools and other amenities. Some want to buy small ranch homes close to or in town to be near shopping, restaurants and local doctors.

Sandra Maschi Long and Foster Real Estate 215-534-4877 cell 215-348-0000 office 215-489-8023 direct Email: Sandra.maschi@lnf.com Website: Sandramaschi.lnf.com

OH, BY THE WAY... I AM NEVER TOO BUSY FOR YOUR REFERRALS