Older Americans can recall a time when gas stations provided full service, with window washers and gas attendants to pump your fuel.
They recall a time of service with a smile—and you don’t find much of that in today’s mobile-dominated environment, where text messages pass for conversation and e-signatures have replaced the ballpoint pen.
That’s why service providers who understand the needs of the older generation are important to these consumers.
Seniors Real Estate Specialists are REALTORS® who have additional training to work with older clients. If we compare a real estate license to a bachelor’s degree, the SRES® designation is the agent’s major.
SRES® candidates must successfully complete additional coursework to understand such topics as reverse mortgages and the federal Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA) as well as how Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security impact real estate decisions.
They also are educated to create a customized approach to each situation: older homeowners planning life after retirement, transitioning from retirement with a companion to life alone or contemplating selling the family home.
They are the center of a network of specialists like estate planners, elder-care attorneys and CPAs who can offer invaluable guidance to seniors deciding how best to manage this stage in their life.
An SRES® is not just a REALTOR®; an SRES® is a trusted adviser to older Americans.
Those age 50 and older will represent 45% of the U.S. population next year, according to AARP. That demographic shift means the real estate industry must adapt to the needs of those who intend to remain in their homes as they age and those who want other options.
This demographic shift will impact the economy overall and housing in particular.
During this phase of life, real estate should be handled with a holistic approach. Senior clients often come with other generations of family members to consider. SRES® designees are trained to navigate the delicate dynamics of adult children caring for older parents, for instance, while also allowing the elder parent to maintain their dignity.
If you are over age 50 and considering a new home purchase, selling your family residence, or transitioning into a care-based facility, here are five ways an SRES® can help:
When it comes to caring for seniors, REALTORS® who have earned the SRES® designation are the real estate industry’s answer to the question, “Where do we start?”
Start with an SRES®.
Original article: https://www.realtor.com/advice/benefits-working-seniors-real-estate-specialist/