Are you thinking of selling your home and are not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Selling a home can often be a stressful and overwhelming experience for many. Here are some questions to consider. First, is time a factor? Zillow suggests that the average time to sell a home in the US is between 55-70 days. Does that timeline fit your needs? Next, what kind of condition is your home in? Is the property in good enough shape where a family could move right in without the need of significant repairs or remodeling? Are you comfortable doing or have access to contractors that can execute any agreed upon repairs requested on a buyer’s inspection list? Finally, are you fine moving out on the date of sale? Would you possibly need time to stay in the property for a period after you sell your property?
If there’s no time crunch, your home is in good shape, and you can leave the home on the closing date, then most likely the best first step is to call a trusted agent and have a conversation about listing it.
However, there are other options to consider. Selling your home to a family member, a neighbor, or a friend is often a great way to sell a property. Another option is to call a professional homebuyer. In addition to closing quickly if needed, professional homebuyers can purchase your property in its “as is” condition, requiring no repairs or inspection lists for you to worry about. Also, a professional homebuyer can often be flexible on your move out date, potentially saving you money on temporary housing or storage. Naturally, you will most likely NOT get the same purchase price as you would if you fixed up the property (if needed) and sold it using a real estate agent. However, while professional homebuyers buy houses at a discount, they also offer a significant amount of ease and convenience. Ultimately, it is your and your family’s decision as to the best route to go when selling your home. Editor’s
Note: This article was submitted by your local Denver area Homevestors® Team who may be reached at 303-747-5989
As we age, our housing needs change. Whether it's downsizing, relocating closer to family, or finding a home that supports aging in place, the decisions can feel overwhelming. Thats where a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) comes inand why this designation matters more than ever.What Is an SRES?An SRES is a Realtor who has completed specialized training to serve the unique needs of clients aged 50 and older. This designation, awarded by the National Association of Realtors, equips agents with the knowledge and sensitivity to guide seniors through major life transitions with confidence and care.As an SRES, I dont just sell homesI help clients navigateCustomized home transition plansHome evaluation analysisEstate planning partnersMoving and estate sale guidanceFamily support and communicationWorking with an SRES means:Empathy and patience: I understand the emotional weight of selling a family home.Local expertise: Knowing which communities offer senior-friendly amenities, healthcare access, and social engagement.Trusted referrals: Being involved in Senior care networks, I have all the resources needed from elder law attorneys to downsizing specialists, I connect clients with professionals who care.Advocacy: Staying in the know with community resources that empower independence.Real Stories, Real ImpactRecently, I helped a couple transition from their longtime condo lifestyle to moving with their family up North. Their priorities had shiftedfrom independently living, to healthcare access. Together, we got them packed up and relocated closer to their family. Their condo was listed and under contract to sell in the weeks after. They will soon have peace of mind and no more carrying costs or HOA fees.These are the moments that matter. And theyre why I chose to become an SRES.Final ThoughtsReal estate isnt just about square footage and curb appealits about people, purpose, and planning. If you or a loved one are considering a move, lets talk. Im here to listen, educate, and guide you every step of the way.Amy Admire, Licensed Florida Realtor | Senior Real Estate Specialist Because Customer Service Still Matters
Why the Appraisal Is the Anchor of Your Homes ValueIts the Lenders Lens: Even if a buyer loves your home, their lender relies on the appraisal to approve the loan. If the appraised value comes in lower than the contract price, the deal could stall or fall apart.Understanding is key: Appraisers use recent comparable sales, condition, location, and upgrades to determine value. Overpricing beyond what the market supports can lead to price reductions and missed opportunities. How Sellers Can Prepare for a Strong AppraisalDocument Upgrades Provide a list of improvements, dates, and costs. From hurricane protection to a new roof or kitchen remodel, these details help appraisers justify value. Lot size and views give value too!Stage & Maintain Clean, well-maintained homes show better and signal pride of ownership. Appraisers grade homes on condition, curb appeal, and functionality.Be Strategic with Pricing Pricing just above recent sales without justification can backfire. Instead, aim for a number that reflects both market demand and appraisal logic.Prepare for the Visit Treat the appraisal like a showing. Make sure the home is accessible, lights are on, and key features are easy to see. A smooth visit helps the appraiser focus on valuenot distractions. Market Comparables (Comps)Recent Sales: Appraisers compare your home to similar properties sold nearby within the last 612 months.Pending Sales & Listings: These help gauge current market momentum and buyer demand.Adjustments: Appraisers make dollar-value adjustments for differences in features, condition, or location. How Appraisers Choose Comparable Homes1. Proximity to the Subject PropertyIdeally within 1 mile of the home being appraised though appraisers will go further out if there arent enough comparables homes in the 1 mile radius.Must be in a similar neighborhood or subdivision, especially if the area has unique features like gated access, amenities, golf or gulf access.2. Recency of SalePreferably sold within the last 30 to 90 days.Older sales may be used if adjusted for market trends, but fresh comps are more reliable.3. Similarity in Property FeaturesAppraisers look for homes that closely match the subject in:Square footageLot sizeNumber of bedrooms and bathroomsAgeDesign and appealespecially important in custom or luxury homes.When appraisers compare your home to others, they make dollar-value adjustments for differenceslike a pool, newer roof, or upgraded kitchen. But heres the catch: Appraisers have rules they must follow. There are limits to how much they can adjust before a comp becomes unreliable.Final ThoughtsIn Southwest Floridas real estate market, hitting the value isnt just a pricing tacticits a strategic move that starts with understanding how appraisers think. From choosing the right comps to staying within adjustment limits, every detail matters when it comes to aligning your homes price with its appraised value.As a seller, your best asset is preparation:Know your market.Document your upgrades.Stage with intention.Price with precision.And most importantlywork with a Realtor who understands how to position your home not just for buyer appeal, but for appraisal success. For more seller or buyer tips, visit https://hello-swfl.com/blog/my-blog
For many older adults in Colorado Springs, El Paso County, and Teller County, the idea of moving can feel overwhelming. A home is often filled with memories, belongings collected over decades, and the comfort of familiarity. Yet life has a way of nudging us toward new chapterswhether that means downsizing, relocating closer to family, or preparing for a transition into assisted living.Thats where Shari Hall comes in. Known as a concierge realtor with the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation, Shari has built her career around helping seniors navigate not just the logistics of buying and selling real estate, but the emotional and practical aspects of moving as well. Her motto is simple but powerful: Experience makes a difference, and heart makes a way.A Realtor Who Understands SeniorsWhat sets Shari apart isnt just her years in the real estate market, but her background in senior living. That experience has given her insight into the challenges older adults face when considering a move. She understands that decisions about downsizing, relocation, estate clean-outs, or home selling arent just financialtheyre deeply personal.With her SRES designation, Shari is uniquely qualified to guide seniors and their families through every step of the process. From preparing a property for the MLS listing with staging and repair programs to arranging mobile closings for convenience, she provides a full-service approach designed to make transitions easier.Concierge Services Beyond Real EstateSharis role goes far beyond that of a traditional realtor. She offers concierge-level services that address the broader needs of seniors during major life changes. This may include connecting clients with move management experts, professional organizers, or trusted partners for estate sales and estate clean-outs.Her clients often benefit from additional resources like: Repair and staging programs to maximize home value Move management services to ease the stress of relocating Organizing services to help simplify the downsizing process Concierge services that coordinate everything from contractors to cleaning crews By offering more than real estate expertise, Shari ensures her clients feel supported in both the big decisions and the small details.Serving Colorado Springs, El Paso County, and Teller CountySharis knowledge of the Colorado Springs area gives her clients an advantage when exploring housing options. Whether the goal is to find a low-maintenance condo, purchase a single-family home, invest in a multi-family property, or explore land acquisitions, she tailors her approach to meet each clients needs.Her services also extend to families managing a parents estate, younger buyers seeking their first home, or those exploring lease-to-own opportunities. While seniors remain her specialty, her deep understanding of the market allows her to serve all generations with confidence.Real Estate with HeartAt the core of Sharis work is compassion. She knows that leaving a home is rarely just about financesits about memories, routines, and comfort. Thats why she approaches each client with patience and empathy, walking them through the process at their pace.Clients often remark that her ability to combine professionalism with a personal touch makes the difference. She listens, provides guidance, and helps remove the stress from what can be a difficult time.Helping Seniors Transition SmoothlyRelocating later in life doesnt have to be overwhelming. With Sharis guidance, seniors can move into their next chapter with peace of mind. Whether the transition involves downsizing to a smaller home, moving into assisted living, or exploring housing alternatives, she provides clarity and reassurance every step of the way.Her ultimate goal is simple: to make sure seniors and their families feel supported, informed, and confident in their real estate decisions.Experience and Heart in ActionFrom MLS listings and mobile closings to distressed properties, real estate acquisitions, and even estate clean-outs, Sharis concierge services touch every corner of the process. She is more than just a realtorshes a trusted partner during one of lifes most important transitions.For seniors in Colorado Springs, El Paso County, and Teller County, that kind of support can make all the difference.Moving Forward with ConfidenceIf you or a loved one are considering a move, downsizing, or exploring senior housing alternatives, Shari Hall is ready to help. With her combination of professional expertise and compassionate service, she ensures that every transition is handled with care.Because when it comes to real estate, experience makes a differenceand heart makes a way. Call Shari today to discuss your specific situation and discover how a concierge realtor for seniors can make your move smoother, simpler, and more successful.