Here's some good news: People are staying healthier longer and enjoying their senior years more than ever. That reality has affected the real estate marketplace, too. Active adult (55 and older) communities are a popular choice for people looking to get the most out of their retirement years.
But with these new opportunities comes responsibility. As a senior seller you want to get the most money possible for your property. The money you earn via the sale may ultimately impact what you can buy and perhaps your lifestyle moving forward.
The real estate market in Mesa County has picked up substantially in the last few weeks. This is happening while many markets around the country have softened. There are simply more homes available nationally for purchase than consumer demand requires.
First, meet with a qualified real estate professional to discuss your property. Talk about things that can be done to boost its appeal. For instance, he or she might suggest pulling up the dated wall-to-wall carpet and refinishing the hardwood floors underneath. Landscaping maybe called for or fresh paint inside and out might be on the agenda. These things take money and time. A proactive approach will allow you to space out the projects and the related costs.
Next, work with your real estate professional to develop a sales strategy. If your agent knows your goals, he or she can advise you when would be the best time to put the home up for sale. A good agent is always monitoring home sales in her area, mortgage rates and market conditions.
Third, use this time to research your next step. Think about where you want to live next and in what type of environment. Do you want to live in an established community or a new development? Use this “down time” before your house is on the market to find the place that is right for you.
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Rick Thurtle is a broker associate with Century 21 Homestead Realty. He utilizes the resources of 21online.com in preparing this column. Contact Rick at 254-3922, rthurtle@gmail.com, or at www.RickThurtle.com.
But with these new opportunities comes responsibility. As a senior seller you want to get the most money possible for your property. The money you earn via the sale may ultimately impact what you can buy and perhaps your lifestyle moving forward.
The real estate market in Mesa County has picked up substantially in the last few weeks. This is happening while many markets around the country have softened. There are simply more homes available nationally for purchase than consumer demand requires.
First, meet with a qualified real estate professional to discuss your property. Talk about things that can be done to boost its appeal. For instance, he or she might suggest pulling up the dated wall-to-wall carpet and refinishing the hardwood floors underneath. Landscaping maybe called for or fresh paint inside and out might be on the agenda. These things take money and time. A proactive approach will allow you to space out the projects and the related costs.
Next, work with your real estate professional to develop a sales strategy. If your agent knows your goals, he or she can advise you when would be the best time to put the home up for sale. A good agent is always monitoring home sales in her area, mortgage rates and market conditions.
Third, use this time to research your next step. Think about where you want to live next and in what type of environment. Do you want to live in an established community or a new development? Use this “down time” before your house is on the market to find the place that is right for you.
------------------------------------------------
Rick Thurtle is a broker associate with Century 21 Homestead Realty. He utilizes the resources of 21online.com in preparing this column. Contact Rick at 254-3922, rthurtle@gmail.com, or at www.RickThurtle.com.


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