A COVID Vaccine is Here!

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Presbyterian SeniorCare Network

Posted on

Feb 24, 2021

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For long-term care providers who have been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 fight, its gratifying to be recognized among Americas highest priority for the vaccine.

Long-term care employees have made it their personal responsibility, both at work and at home, to take the necessary precautions in order to safely care for Americas most vulnerable population and the many members of our Greatest Generation.
The COVID-19 vaccine will be a welcome new tool in the fight against COVID-19 in long-term care communities. Based on whats known about vaccines for other diseases, experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep individuals from getting seriously ill even if they do get COVID-19. This virus can have serious, life-threatening complications, and there is no way to know how it will affect each person. Whats more concerning is how people who are experiencing no symptoms could be silent carriers, spreading the disease to friends, family, and others unknowingly.
Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce ones chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. The COVID-19 vaccine will work to help an individuals immune system be ready to fight the virus if the person is exposed. For example, both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines work similarly. Each requires two-doses given approximately 28 days apart. Both vaccines appear to be incredibly safe and effective with a 95% efficacy after taking the 2nd dose. These COVID-19 mRNA vaccines give instructions for a persons cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the spike protein. The spike protein is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19. Keep in mind, these mRNA vaccines will not give someone COVID-19 since they do not use the live virus that causes COVID-19.
According to the CDC, getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you. For more vaccine information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html. Learn more about the multi-pronged efforts to protect against the virus in long-term care communities at www.SrCare.org/coronavirus-update.

Editors Note: This article was submitted by Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. Contact us at 877-851-1440. See ad on page 153.

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The specific MLS reporting period should be confirmed before publication.Keeping Current Matters: Homes Are Still Selling Even in a Slower Market, original industry commentary and inspiration. https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/Realtor.com: Mortgage Rate Lock-In Still Dominates, October 22, 2026. https://mediaroom.realtor.com/2026-10-22-Mortgage-Rate-Lock-In-Still-Dominates*Market statistics reflect the reporting periods indicated and may change. Real estate conditions vary by location, property type, and price range.

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Depersonalize Family Photos and CollectionsYour home is filled with memories, and those personal touches make it special to you.However, when selling, the goal is to help prospective buyers imagine creating their own memories in the space.Temporarily pack away large family photo displays, highly personalized decorations, and extensive collections.You don't need to eliminate all personality. A few tasteful accessories can make a home feel warm and welcoming.This step can be particularly emotional for longtime homeowners who have raised families and celebrated milestones in their homes.Think of depersonalizing as preparing for your next chapternot erasing the memories of the past.7. Stage the Primary Bedroom as a Peaceful RetreatThe primary bedroom is an important space for many homebuyers.Ideally, it should feel comfortable, restful, and spacious.Start with freshly laundered bedding, coordinating pillows, and uncluttered nightstands.Remove unnecessary furniture and organize closets to showcase available storage.Soft colors and simple accessories can create the atmosphere of a peaceful retreat.If your bedroom currently serves multiple purposes, such as a home office, exercise room, or storage area, consider simplifying the layout during the selling process.Help buyers see the room's full potential.8. Rearrange Furniture to Improve Flow and FunctionalityFurniture placement can dramatically affect how large or small a room feels.Oversized furniture, crowded seating arrangements, and blocked walkways can make buyers question whether a home has enough space.Try removing extra chairs, tables, or decorative pieces.Position furniture to highlight architectural features such as fireplaces, large windows, or attractive views.Make sure buyers can move comfortably between rooms.You don't need to purchase new furniture. Often, simply rearranging what you already own can create a more open and functional appearance.Effective home staging helps buyers appreciate the space rather than focus on what's filling it.9. 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Complete Small Repairs Before Listing Your HomeA dripping faucet, loose cabinet handle, squeaky door, or chipped paint may seem insignificant.To a prospective buyer, however, multiple small maintenance issues can raise questions about what larger problems might exist.Before listing, walk through your home as though you're seeing it for the first time.Make a list of minor repairs and address what you reasonably can.Pay particular attention to leaky faucets, loose hardware, cracked caulking, damaged grout, burned-out light bulbs, and scuffed walls.A well-maintained appearance can help reduce buyer concerns and prevent avoidable distractions during showings.Selling Your Longtime Family Home? Preparation Matters Even MoreFor many older adults throughout Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, Peters Township, Canonsburg, and surrounding Greater Pittsburgh communities, selling a home represents more than a real estate transaction.It may mean downsizing after retirement, moving closer to family, transitioning to a maintenance-free home, or exploring senior living options.If you've lived in your home for 20, 30, or even 40 years, preparing to sell can feel like an enormous undertaking.That's why I encourage homeowners to begin planning early.Not every improvement is worth the investment. Working with an experienced local real estate agent can help you prioritize updates, understand buyer expectations, and develop a selling strategy that makes sense for your home and circumstances.Downsizing doesn't mean giving up what matters most. It means making room for what comes next.Ready to Sell Your Home in Allegheny or Washington County?There's an old saying: "You only get one chance to make a first impression."That couldn't be more true when selling real estate.Today's buyers often discover homes through online listings, photographs, and neighborhood drive-bys before deciding whether to schedule a showing.If your home doesn't capture their attention during those initial encounters, you may miss an opportunity to bring qualified buyers through the door.My philosophy is simple: Take the time to prepare your home, showcase its best features, and position one of your most valuable assets for a successful sale.Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or simply exploring your options, I'd welcome the opportunity to help you prepare for your next chapter.Contact Denise Marasco with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, Mt. Lebanon Office, to schedule a personalized home-selling consultation.Together, we can identify the improvements that matter most and create a plan to help your home make an outstanding first impression.About Denise MarascoDenise Marasco is a real estate agent with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services' Mt. Lebanon office, serving homeowners throughout Allegheny and Washington counties in the Greater Pittsburgh area.Denise understands that selling a home is more than a financial decisionespecially for longtime homeowners preparing to downsize, relocate, or begin a new chapter. She believes in taking the time to prepare each property thoughtfully, helping sellers understand which improvements can make the greatest impact while navigating the real estate process with confidence.Whether you're selling a longtime family home or exploring your next move, Denise offers personalized guidance and a practical approach to preparing your property for the market.

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