Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

Sometimes you have no choice on when you need to sell your home a job transfer, you saw another home you really want to buy, or you have an unexpected life change.  Selling in the off season such as summer isnt ideal but it can be done, and its imperative its done the right way to get the best results.And, believe it or not, not everyone is on vacation in the summer!  In fact, some buyers have more flexible schedules. There are also plenty of buyers that are just getting their search started and those who didnt find the right house or got outbid during the busy Spring selling season.  Summer really can be a good time to sell your home to one of these off-season buyers who dont want to wait until the Fall or next Spring. Here are our must-do tips for that summertime sale:Target the Right Buyers for Your NeighborhoodAs we mentioned above, there are certain buyers who keep looking over the summer. But there are also buyers who are relocating to Bradenton/Sarasota and have to move pronto. You need to target these different types of buyers, tapping into their needs and wants for a home.If youre in an urban Bradenton neighborhood, with more young and hip buyers, then your focus is on first-time buyers who have more flexibility and may not have a deadline. But, keep in mind, that the buyers still looking into summertime are serious buyers and are ready to find a home and put in an offer.Youll need to price your home right from the get-go, be generous with your terms (offer to pay for closing costs) and make your home a summer retreat for them.Also be flexible with the hours you show your home. With daylight lasting well past dinnertime, be open to later showings. Younger, first-time buyers will find this time more convenient during their work week. Make sure you take advantage of these daylight hours!For Lakewood Ranch or a suburban Sarasota home, your buyers may be tied to the school calendar and want to settle on a home quickly. You still want to price your home correctly to bring in the foot traffic, make it as move-in ready as possible (theyre looking for convenience and dont want to deal with projects), and showcase your home so it looks like a great place for their familys summer staycation.And again, be flexible with your showing hours. Daylight savings means families are on the go later into the evening, but they usually find a lull after dinnertime perfect time for them to see your home.Showcase Your Homes Summer BestNow is the time to make your home shine on the inside and the outside. Make your home bright and welcoming a summertime oasis!Curb appeal and backyard staging will draw buyers in. You want buyers to want to see your home and then envision themselves relaxing and living there. Outdoor living space can be a big selling point, even in the summer in Florida.Plan to spend a little bit on some outdoor dcor, whether its a bistro table and chairs on your deck; patio furniture with colorful throw pillows; or a lovely wooden bench and flowerpots near your walkway. This may be a great time to work with a stager so you dont have to buy many items yourself.Dont skimp on or blast the air conditioning. Dont make your home hot and stuffy so that buyers rush through your home. Or dont make it too cold, that buyers sprint through the rooms. Set your thermostat at a comfortable and cool temperature. If youve already moved, make sure you time it so that your home stays cool during possible showings. Buyers will love to get out of the heat!Brighten up your home. Consider switching out dark colored pillows, throw rugs, curtains, and other dcor to lighter colors.  Clean the windows, open the blinds, and keep the lights on. Even though it doesnt get dark until much later in the summer, you still want to light up the inside of your home.Maintain your yard and water, water, water. Mow your lawn, trim your bushes and trees. Sweep your deck or patio regularly.  The summer heat can make your lawn turn brown water that and all of your flowers in beds and pots.Be prepared for getting your family out of the house. If you have children, selling in the summer can be difficult because they arent in school and are at home, possibly all day long. Hopefully you can keep your home in order as much as possible and develop a good exit strategy for those times you need to show it. Preplan so you know if you need to have a sitter, set up a play date, sign up for a camp, or head out for a long dinner.Putting It All TogetherAs you can see, selling in the summertime doesnt have to be a negative. Youll have more daylight hours to showcase your home, youll see more serious buyers or those on a deadline themselves, and many homes can look their best inside and outside in the summer. All positive!But do keep in mind that summer is slower and there will be less traffic to your home than if you listed in the height of the springtime selling season. That can be a chaotic and rushed time, so the lazy days of summer is definitely a different market. You must keep it all in perspective.Every seller has their own personal specifics and deadline when it comes to selling, especially if you need to list your home in the summer. You MUST know your market and neighborhood so that you price your home right and also have an idea of what you should or shouldnt be doing when negotiating terms.Im here to help you with a summertime sale. I have a sales plan to get your home sold as quickly as possible for the most amount of money possible. Id love to tell you all about it.  Simply email me and we can set up a time to talk and see if selling in the summer is the right move for you.

Losing a loved one can be a difficult and painful time for family and friends. There are many things to consider after someone passes away, including what happens to their bank. If someone dies without a will in Florida, their bank account and other assets will be subject to the states intestacy laws.Dying IntestateIntestacy laws dictate how a persons assets will be distributed if they die without a will. In Florida, if someone dies without a will, their assets will be distributed according to these laws. This means that the deceaseds bank account will be distributed to their heirs according to the states laws. It is important to note that if the deceased person had outstanding debts or liabilities, they must be paid before any assets, including funds in a bank account, can be distributed to heirs. If there are insufficient funds in the bank account to pay off the debts, the heirs may not receive any inheritance from the account.Bank Accounts with Named BeneficiariesIf the decedents bank account has named beneficiaries, it will pass directly to those individuals upon the decedents death. This setup allows control of the bank account and its assets to pass directly to the named beneficiaries without waiting for the exhausting probate process to be completed. The named beneficiaries must show a valid ID and the decedents death certificate to the bank. Bank Accounts with No Named BeneficiariesBank accounts with no named beneficiaries must pass through the probate process. Probate is timely and expensive, and when no will is present, the court will appoint an estate administrator to carry out its orders under state law. This often triggers family disputes and other problems because the law seldom distributes assets like bank accounts according to the familys wishes. Jointly Owned AccountsJointly-owned bank accounts in Florida typically pass to the sole ownership of the surviving joint account owner. This is called rights of survivorship. No probate process should be required.Probate AdministrationTo access the funds in a deceased persons bank account, the appointed executor must provide documentation to the bank to prove that the court has appointed them as the estate executor. This documentation may include a death certificate, letters testamentary, and other legal documents. Avoid Burdening Your Loved Ones Create an Estate Plan TodayIf someone dies without a will in Florida, their bank account will be subject to the states intestacy laws. The funds in the account will be distributed to the heirs according to the states laws. This seldom happens according to the decedents or the familys wishes. Complicated family structures and relationships can prolong the probate process while some may contest the courts distributions.  A Tampa Probate Attorney from Mortellaro Law is an invaluable resource when faced with controversial beneficiary distributions by the court-appointed administrator of an intestate loved ones estate. We are happy to consult with you and advise you on your rights and possible courses of action.  Of course, preventing this scenario and its burden on your loved ones is crucial. Mortellaro Law can help you create a sound estate plan to fulfill your wishes after your death. Asset distribution, including bank accounts, is just one benefit of establishing an estate plan now. Contact us today for a free consultation about estate planning in Florida. 

The Link Between Social Connection And Physical HealthNumerous studies have highlighted the strong correlation between social interaction and physical health. Older adults who maintain active social lives tend to have lower blood pressure, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, and stronger immune systems. This is partly because social activities often encourage physical activities, whether its a brisk walk with friends, a dance class, or a game of tennis. Moreover, having a robust social network can improve adherence to medical advice and encourage proactive health behaviors, such as regular check-ups and adherence to medication schedules. Mental And Cognitive BenefitsStaying socially connected is equally crucial for mental health. Social interaction can stimulate cognitive functions, keeping the brain active and engaged. Older adults who participate in social activities often exhibit better memory retention and slower cognitive decline. Engaging in conversations, playing strategic games like chess or bridge, and even participating in group discussions can enhance cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimers disease. Furthermore, social interaction provides emotional support, which is vital for mental health. Loneliness and isolation are significant risk factors for depression and anxiety in older adults. Regular contact with friends and family can provide a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing feelings of loneliness and boosting overall mood. Emotional Well-Being And Quality Of LifeHuman beings are inherently social creatures. We thrive on connections and interactions. For older adults, maintaining these connections can vastly improve emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Being part of a community or social group can provide a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity, which are crucial for emotional stability. Sharing experiences, laughter, and even challenges with others can foster a sense of companionship and support, which is essential for emotional health.Practical Steps To Stay Socially Connected Join Clubs and Groups: Whether its a book club, gardening group, or exercise class, these activities provide regular opportunities for social interaction. Volunteer: Volunteering not only benefits the community but also provides a sense of purpose and an opportunity to meet new people. Many organizations welcome volunteers for their experience and wisdom. Use Technology: For those with mobility issues or who live far from family, technology can be a lifesaver. Video calls, social media, and online forums can help older adults stay connected with loved ones and make new friends. Attend Community Events: Many communities offer events specifically geared toward older adults, such as dances, luncheons, and cultural activities. Participating in these events can be a fun way to meet new people and stay active. Maintain Family Connections: Regular visits, phone calls, and family gatherings can strengthen bonds and ensure that older adults feel connected and valued. Stay Connected For Better HealthThey key to healthy aging is not just about maintaining physical health; its about nurturing the mind and soul as well. Social connections play a pivotal role in ensuring that older adults not only live longer but also enjoy a higher quality of life. By fostering relationships and staying engaged with the community, seniors can enhance their physical health, stimulate their minds, and maintain emotional well-being. As society evolves, it is essential to recognize and support the social needs of our aging population.

Eight Ways to Honor Alzheimers & Brain Awareness MonthAlzheimers & Brain Awareness MonthThe Alzheimers Association has declared June Alzheimers & Brain Awareness Month, a time for everyone to show support and raise awareness about the disease. Wearing purple and featuring the hashtag #ENDALZ on social media is a good start. Read on to learn the many ways you can join in the fight against this deadly disease. As stated by the Alzheimers Association:More than 6 million Americans of all ages have AlzheimersSeventy-two percent are age 75 or olderOne in nine people aged 65 and older (11.3%) has Alzheimers dementia.Everyone who has a brain is at risk of developing Alzheimers. This disease is the only leading cause of death that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.The History of Alzheimers Awareness MonthIn 1983, Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimers Disease Awareness Month to recognize this little-known disease. At that time, there were fewer than 2 million people in America who had Alzheimers disease. As the disease has increased, so has awareness. In 2021, President Joe Biden proclaimed the support of the White House to accelerate research to fight for a cure, recognizing again, November as National Alzheimers Disease Awareness Month.June has been dubbed Alzheimers & Brain Awareness Month to further the cause and put a spotlight on brain health. The Alzheimers Association made a significant connection with Junes summer solstice, proclaiming The Longest Day as an opportunity for supporters to come together to raise awareness by doing an activity of their choice to fight the darkness of Alzheimer's.To further the cause around the world, Alzheimers Disease International (ADI) designated September 21 as World Alzheimers Day in 1994, on the tenth anniversary of the organizations origin. In 2012, the decision was made to extend awareness during the entire month so that Alzheimer and dementia associations around the world would have the opportunity to broaden their awareness programs beyond just World Alzheimers Day.Alzheimers Disease vs. DementiaAlzheimers disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimers disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimers, symptoms first appear later in life. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that more than 6 million Americans, most of them age 65 or older, may have dementia caused by Alzheimers.Dementia is not a specific disease. Its an overall term that describes a group of symptoms. The National Institute on Aging. explains dementia as the loss of cognitive functioningthinking, remembering and reasoningto such an extent that it interferes with a persons daily life and activities. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person's functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for basic activities of living.The Longest DayOn June 21the summer solsticepeople across the world will participate in fundraising activities associated with the Alzheimers Associations, The Longest Day. It is the hope of the association that on this day, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimers.There are many other ways to participate throughout the month of June. American House will hold various fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for the cause. Contact your local American House for more details on what your local community is doing to fight Alzheimers.Here are eight ways to honor the fight:1. Caregiver support.Caring for a person with this disease can be overwhelming. Show your support to the caregiver in your life by recognizing their care needs or by simply engaging in a kind gesture.2. Share your story.So many of us have a story to tell surrounding the disease. Sharing your own Alzheimers story can provide hope and support, as well as inspire people to join the fight.3. Go purple.Purple is the official color of the Alzheimers movement. Wear purple during the month of June to bring awareness to the disease.4. 65 seconds of silence.Every 65 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimers. Take a moment to recognize, in just over a minutes time, a persons life will change forever.5. Fundraise on The Longest Day.Whether its participating in a walk, game or event, join others across the world in raising funds and awareness on The Longest Day. Start/join a fundraiser here.6. Get social.Spread the word about Alzheimers & Brain Awareness Month by using the hashtags #ENDALZ and #TheLongestDay on Instagram and Twitter. Change your Facebook profile picture to the Alzheimers Association frame to shine light on the disease.7. Become an advocate.Visit the Alzheimers Association advocacy page and sign up to join to be an advocate. By joining the network of advocates, the Alzheimers Association will send you alerts to take simple actions that will help influence national policy and create widespread awareness of this devastating disease.8. Love your brain.As of today, there is no way to prevent this disease. However, research suggests there are steps to be followed to encourage a healthy, aging brain. Check out 10 ways to love your brain.Life at American HouseOur personalized Memory Care program is designed to help residents live and be cared for with compassion throughout the stages of dementia. With focused attention on each resident, we join them where they are on their journey and assist in making it the best it can be. Our dedicated Memory Care neighborhood offers full-service amenities and wellness programming, individually designed to ensure our residents unique wants and needs are met.At American House, we offer maintenance-free living at its finest. Our charming communities feature spacious apartments with a variety of amenities and services. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, weekly housekeeping, salon and barber shop services, fitness centers and so much more. With locations in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, New Hampshire, Tennessee and Florida, youre sure to find the proper level of care and services to fit your needs.We offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care*, Respite Care and Hospice Care*.Contact us to find out which American House community is right for you.*Care provided by an independent, third-party health care provider at select communities.