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4 Reasons to Work with an Exclusive Seniors Real Estate Specialist®

You’ve probably heard the saying, “all real estate is local.” It’s a truism that refers to the unique qualities of neighborhoods and properties—and the importance of working with a real estate professional who intimately understands a local market.

The same claim can be made for real estate CLIENTS. Everyone who buys or sells property has unique needs. This is especially true for later-in-life real estate transactions, which may include distinct challenges (floor plans that accommodate aging in place, estate planning considerations, special financing requirements, etc.). If you’re a buyer or seller over the age of 50—or are assisting someone who is—there are several reasons to choose a real estate specialist who focuses exclusively seniors: 1. THEY MADE THE CHOICE An agent who has earned the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) designation, and only works with seniors, made this choice because they enjoy working with mature adults and helping people “of a certain age” navigate life’s transitions. Many of them have either made similar transitions themselves, or have helped parents and relatives. There’s a reason they chose this focus for their business, and it’s all about helping people. 2. THEY’LL OFFER OPTIONS Newly retired? Empty nester? Widow/widower? Any of these transitions can precipitate a huge change in lifestyle, with many adjustments and decisions—only one of which is where to live. A senior specialist will listen to your concerns and share potential solutions and resources to help make your decisions. By focusing only on seniors, they already understand which properties come closest to meeting your needs—and where to find many other valuable resources. 3. THEY ARE EMPATHETIC An exclusive senior specialist understands that major life changes are never easy, but they don’t shy away from the difficult topics or the difficult emotions that often accompany these decisions. They know your priorities change when your life changes. They’ll help you find solutions to make a smoother transition. 4. THEY ARE ENGAGED These agents don’t just talk about senior issues, they get involved, whether it’s volunteering or developing relationships with seniorcentric agencies and individuals. They’re able to help seniors throughout their community—not just their clients. (And they’ll remain a resource long after your business relationship is over.) Helping people is their passion!

You can count on an SRES® to guide you through the process of buying or selling your home, making the transaction less stressful and more successful.

Mary Boccardo is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® who is with Keller Williams SouthPark. More information can be found at www.mavenlifehomes.com.

A New Year’s Resolution kept in 15 minutes?

Instead of flooding your mind, body, and schedule with resolutions this year, give yourself something that is FREE and can help you on one of these areas at a time. Give yourself the gift of 15 minutes each day and see what new practice you can begin that fits comfortably (key word) into your day. For example:

Mind: Feeling Stressed? Try sitting quietly and breathing deeply from your belly to achieve a feeling of calm. Simply stare out the window or at a picture you love, and breathe. Try memorizing 3 affirmations to recite daily to set a positive mental tone for your day.

Body: Give yourself some positive daily attention with simple exercises. Marching in place for 15 minutes is a great way to get the heart rate up! Instead of letting Rover out in the back yard, bundle up and take him for a 15 minute walk.

Organization: After the holiday excitement subsides, give yourself 15 minutes to do simple chores. Make your bed, so some laundry, sort and toss junk mail. Choose one drawer each day to organize. Go through your closer with a plastic garbage bag and put items you don’t like to wear anymore in it to donate. Tip: Keeping a plastic bag in your closet helps to make this process ongoing and easier.

This will be the most convenient New Year’s Resolution you’ve ever made!

Cindy Greer, Owner and Senior Move Manager® O: 704-945-7108 | TransitionWithCare.net

To Delay or not to Delay- Social Security

As we start 2022, some of you may be investigating for the first time whether to begin your social security benefit. This is a very important decision as it may impact your retirement income stream as well as your spouse’s if you are married.

The concern that social security will run out of money tends to push some people to throw strategy to the wind and file at age 62, the earliest age possible, even though the benefit is significantly reduced. On the other hand, there are those that decide to wait for the maximum stepped-up benefit paid at age 70. With full retirement age adjusting based on date of birth (latest age currently 67), it is important to know what your Full Retirement Age (FRA) benefits are and to build your retirement cash flow plan with multiple options. • Consideration of potential spousal impact and potential benefits in the future after one of you passes away add to the importance of planning. • Considering benefit reducers such as taxes and yearly income benefit caps should also be part of your planning. Up to 85% of your social security benefit may be taxable, depending on your income. In addition, if you earn more than a certain amount ($19,560 in 2022) from work before full retirement age, your benefit will be reduced. The good news is that at FRA, there is no reduction of benefits, no matter how much you earn AND previous reductions will be calculated back into your benefits, going forward. • Consider the importance of your social security income to your lifestyle now. • And finally, consider whether your health supports the benefit delay. Maximize your ability to take your social security benefits later by doing your part on ensuring your longevity through activities you can control like your diet, exercise programs, and stress balance.

Potential income benefits can be estimated by using the tools provided at www.ssa.gov. Use the My Social Security button to be sure your earnings records are correct and to gather estimates that can be used in your financial plan.

The bottom line for you is to make it a calculated decision and not a reactionary one.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC

Jeffrey Karp, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL® founder of Karp Financial Strategies and is a registered representative of LPL Financial. More information and his blog, Permission GrantedSM can be found at www.karpfinancial.com.

Ready for a Change?

January is Open Enrollment for Medicare

Sheryl Gulan partnered with Bridlewood Insurance has been helping hundreds of individuals who are turning 65 or new to Medicare. She can also help those who have been in Medicare for years. At no cost to you for services, Sheryl takes the time to find out what your specific needs are, then goes over options with you so that you can make an informed decision. As an independent agent Sheryl offers unbiased assistance and support in helping people compare and select what best fits their needs and budget! Sheryl’s business is one of caring ~ where plans are based on yours!

Sheryl Gulan

Huntersville, NC 704.577.7560 bridlewoodinsurance.com/ agent/sheryl-gulan/

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