Archive For The “Uncategorized” Category

Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

By |

1 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

One reason for wanting to age in place is the connection to the home and memories as well as a strong connection to the community and neighbors. Aging in place can be a blessing in senior years but a home can present many dangers. Cost effective measures can be taken to make the home safer and more secure. Here are a few steps that you can take.

Medical alert monitor

Picture1 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

Special monitors can be worn around the neck or wrist to call for medical assistance in an emergency. There are also sensors for turning on and off lights to aid maneuvering down a dark hall or staircase late at night. Motion detectors can be installed around the home and connected to an App on a caregiver’s phone. These devices can provide security and peace of mind for families who have seniors living alone.

Security Alarms

1 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

Security alarms can be installed inside and outside the home to provide peace of mind against intruders. Security systems have changed a lot over the years and now offer many options for your personal needs. Cameras can be added to your home for increased security.

Modify the bathroom

Picture2 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

Water on the floor can cause a dangerous fall. Grab bars will have to be installed around the bathroom to assist with standing, sitting, and showering. A grab bar installed horizontally around a bathtub helps prevent falls when trying to sit or stand in the bathtub.

A shower/bath chair and a handheld shower nozzle will also make bathing easier. Purchase a bath brush with an extended handle to aid in hard-to-reach places when bathing so you are not bending and stooping in the tub.

Clutter

Picture3 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

Decluttering the home is extremely important as storage boxes, magazines and large furniture can limit necessary movement about a room with a walker or wheelchair.

It may be difficult to part with collectibles and furnishings but remember these items can be passed along to family members, donated to community organizations. You can also pay to place these things in storage.

Making a few simple modifications to a residence can provide peace of mind for seniors living in place and the people who care about them.


Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later in life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 Home safety Tips for Seniors Aging in Place

Read more »

13 Reasons Why You Should Not Wait Too Long to Downsize Your Home

By |

sad senior 13 Reasons Why You Should Not Wait Too Long to Downsize Your Home

Downsizing your home and thus rightsizing your life has many benefits and advantages. Here are 13 reasons why you shouldn’t wait too long to make the change.

1. Financial Savings:

Downsizing to a smaller home, condo, or apartment can result in significant cost savings. A smaller mortgage payment or rent, reduced property taxes, and lower utility bills can free up funds for other expenses or savings, allowing you to achieve greater financial stability.

2. Reduced Maintenance:

One of the benefits of downsizing is having a smaller property that requires less time, effort, and money for maintenance and repairs. You can enjoy a simplified lifestyle with fewer chores and responsibilities, giving you more time to focus on things you enjoy such as traveling, hobbies, volunteer work, or family.

3. Increased Cash Flow:

If you have equity in your current home, downsizing can provide you with a cash infusion or be invested to provide a monthly income to help fund your retirement. By selling your larger house and purchasing a smaller one or renting an apartment, you can unlock the equity and use the extra funds for investments, travel, or other financial goals.

4. Declutter and Organize:

Downsizing forces you to evaluate and declutter your belongings. Moving to an apartment or condo means you’ll have to make choices about what to keep and what to let go of. This process can be liberating and lead to a more organized and clutter-free living space.

5. Improved Accessibility:

Moving to a smaller, more accessible space can make it easier to navigate, especially as you age. Features like fewer stairs, wider hallways, and accessible bathrooms can enhance mobility and independence, ensuring that your living environment remains suitable for your needs in the long term.

6. Right-sizing:

Downsizing allows you to align your living space with your current needs. Your home may have been the perfect size while the kids were at home, the reality is everyone’s housing needs change over time. If you find that your current home is too large for your lifestyle or requires more upkeep than you can manage, downsizing can help create a more efficient and functional home that better suits your needs.

7. Freedom to Travel:

A smaller house requires less time and effort to maintain. With fewer maintenance responsibilities, you’ll have more freedom and flexibility to travel without worrying about home upkeep. You can embark on vacations or extended trips with peace of mind, knowing that your smaller home is easier to manage during your absence.

8. Health and Safety:

Moving to a smaller home can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries associated with navigating a larger property, particularly if you have mobility challenges. A more compact living space can minimize the need to climb stairs or traverse long hallways, creating a safer and more secure environment.

9. Energy Efficiency:

Smaller homes generally have lower energy consumption. By downsizing, you can reduce your environmental impact and potentially save on utility costs. A smaller footprint means less energy required for heating, cooling, and powering your home, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

10. Location Flexibility:

Downsizing can provide an opportunity to relocate to a neighborhood that better suits your preferences or is closer to family, amenities, services, and hospitals. Whether you desire a vibrant urban area, a quieter suburban neighborhood, or a home in close proximity to parks, shops, and healthcare facilities, downsizing allows you the flexibility to choose a location that enhances your quality of life.

11. Emotional Well-being:

A smaller, more manageable living space can contribute to a sense of calm, comfort, and peace of mind. Downsizing allows you to simplify your surroundings and create a cozy and intimate environment that promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.

12. Social Connections:

Downsizing can allow you to live in a community with like-minded individuals or be closer to family and friends. Moving to a smaller home or a retirement community can provide opportunities for social interactions, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

13. Fresh Start:

Moving to a new home offers a fresh start and the opportunity to create new memories and experiences. Downsizing can be an exciting chapter in your life, enabling you to reimagine your living space and embrace a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.

These are just some of the reasons why downsizing your Halifax house can be a beneficial decision. Remember to carefully evaluate your personal circumstances, consider your financial goals, and consult with professionals, to make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and aspirations.


homebeat ad 13 Reasons Why You Should Not Wait Too Long to Downsize Your Home

Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later-in-life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 13 Reasons Why You Should Not Wait Too Long to Downsize Your Home
Roy Thomas

Read more »

11 Ways to Eliminate Paper as You Downsize Your Halifax Home

By |

1 2 11 Ways to Eliminate Paper as You Downsize Your Halifax Home

In a world that is increasingly becoming digital, it is important to reduce the amount of paper clutter in our lives. Not only is it better for the environment, but it also helps us stay organized and efficient. There are many ways to downsize and eliminate paper using online storage and other digital tools.

There are multiple benefits of going paperless.

The first is searchability. Instead of knowing a document you want is in one of 11 different boxes stored in the basement and you having to manually go thru them until you find it. If it is stored online you can use the search feature to type in the document name or keywords to quickly locate the document.

Secondly is storage, no longer will you need to box, files or binders of old papers. All your documents can be stored online, and you can throw out all the papers.

Thirdly is sharing. Most online storage tools allow you to share all or some of the documents and files with other people. You can share some folders with your spouse, others with you children. You can share as much or as little as you want.

And in addition, for accessibility. You can access your files at home, at the cottage, at your Winter home in Florida or while travelling. All you need is computer access.

Personally, I have been running my real estate practice completely paperless since about 2015.

Here are 11 strategies to help you eliminate paper as you downsize

1. Switch to online billing and statements

One of the easiest ways to reduce paper clutter is to switch to online billing and statements. Most banks, credit card companies, and utility providers offer electronic options for managing your accounts. This means that you can receive bills and statements via email, which you can store and organize electronically. By doing this, you can reduce your reliance on paper and save time and money on postage.

2. Use cloud storage for documents

Cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive provide an easy way to store and access your documents from anywhere with an internet connection. With cloud storage, you can upload and store all kinds of documents, including financial records, personal documents, and photos.

Additionally, cloud storage services offer robust security features, so you can rest assured that your files are safe and protected. If you have a Gmail email address, you already have a free Google Drive account. If you are unfamiliar with these products I have included some links to videos about how to use each of these.

Google Drive  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTuL9A-Xqbw

MS OneDrive  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QM4eXdETKOY

Dropbox   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVeujljVKWc

3. Digitize important documents

If you have important documents that you don’t want to lose, consider digitizing them. You can use a scanner or a smartphone app to capture high-quality digital copies of your documents. Once you have the digital copies, you can store them in a cloud storage service or on your computer. This not only reduces paper clutter, but it also helps protect your documents from damage or loss.

I’ve been using Genius Scan on my phone for years. It works great and has a free version. You can learn more here. https://thegrizzlylabs.com/genius-scan/  And here’s a video on how to use it:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8z6PHHd2Exc

4. Use e-books instead of paper books

If you’re an avid reader, consider switching to e-books. With an e-reader like the Kindle, you can store thousands of books in one compact device. This means that you can declutter your bookshelves and eliminate the need for physical books. Additionally, e-books are often cheaper than physical books, so you can save money in the long run.

5. Use online services for tasks like banking and shopping

Many tasks that used to require paper can now be completed online. For example, you can use online banking services to transfer money, pay bills, and manage your accounts. You can also use online shopping services to order products and have them delivered directly to your door. By using these services, you can reduce your reliance on paper and simplify your life.

6. Use digital calendars and to-do lists

If you’re still using paper calendars and to-do lists, consider switching to digital tools. There are numerous apps available that allow you to create and manage digital calendars and to-do lists, such as Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar and Todoist. By using digital tools, you can access your schedules and tasks from anywhere and eliminate the need for paper.

I’ve been using Google Calendar and Todoist for years, both are great. Todoist will interface with a Gmail account so it’s available in your inbox. If you have a Gmail email you already have Calendar included and the same with Outlook. You can get a Todoist account at www.Todoist.com And of course, here are the videos:

Google Calendar https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5yyQDbAxaU   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcrQA1VnVyk

And if you want the calendar on your phone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyfbNtpxc9Y

MS Outlook Calendar https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BU_ELSsDLc

Todoist  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nbf4WHrsKRI

7. Use online forms for applications and registrations

Many applications and registrations can now be completed online using digital forms. For example, you can apply for a passport or register for a class online. By using online forms, you can eliminate the need for paper applications and registrations, which can help reduce paper clutter.

8. Use digital receipts

Many retailers now offer digital receipts that can be emailed to you instead of printed. When you make a purchase, simply ask if a digital receipt is available. This not only helps reduce paper clutter, but it also makes it easier to keep track of your expenses. You can also save the receipt to online storage so you can easily find it in the future.

9. Use digital note-taking app

If you’re someone who likes to take notes, consider using digital note-taking apps like Evernote or OneNote. These apps allow you to take notes, organize them, and access them from anywhere. By using digital note-taking apps, you can eliminate the need for physical notebooks and reduce paper clutter. Google Keep is a more basic note taking app and as you probably guessed it comes free with your Gmail account.

I’ve been using Evernote for years and love it. I can save notes, documents, pictures, videos and they have a cool feature that allows you to save a copy of a webpage. It has a free version. I even keep my grocery list in Evernote.

Evernote: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0X2338G-N60 or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27jSOSy_TfY

OneNote: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjnQ937cg8g

Google Keep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6R8sh4HJig

10. Store your photos online

No doubt you have many old photos which have value unfortunately over time they can fade or get destroyed or lost. One way to prevent this is to scan them and save online in Google Photos or Apple iCloud. To scan photos you will need a photo scanner like this Digital Film & Photo Scanner Multi-Function Combo Scanner with HD from Amazon

1 1 11 Ways to Eliminate Paper as You Downsize Your Halifax Home

Storing them online also will allow you to share those photos with family or friends as well as sort them by type, year taken, by people etc. Here’s some videos to show you more.

Google Photos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXe68IxpqWo

iCloud Photos : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sNvh_Kp18k

Another cool option is a digital picture frame. It will store multiple pics and continually run thru them in rotation. Here’s an example of a digital picture frame: https://www.amazon.ca/Digital-1280×800-Auto-Rotate-Instantly-Anywhere/dp/B09PY8Y39N/ref=sr_1_4?

11. Throw away your Rolodex or address book.

You can store the names, phone numbers, email addresses and home address of everyone you know online. Two popular options are Google Contacts & Outlook Contacts which come with a Gmail or Outlook email account. And they will sync between your computer and mobile phone. They have unlimited ability to store as many contacts as you need and they are always at your finger tips.

Google Contacts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQ0JOhGg1vE

Outlook Contacts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeRYRnL9i-w

I’ve mentioned all the free products included with a Google Account (Gmail email) so to give you an introduction to all the features of a Gmail account here’s one last video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zQGKcNIx_o

In conclusion, there are many ways to downsize and eliminate paper using online storage and other digital tools. By adopting these strategies, you can reduce paper clutter in your life and become more organized and efficient. Additionally, you can help reduce your environmental impact and save time and money in the long run. So, start taking steps towards a paperless lifestyle today!


homebeat ad 11 Ways to Eliminate Paper as You Downsize Your Halifax Home

Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later in life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 11 Ways to Eliminate Paper as You Downsize Your Halifax Home
Roy Thomas

Read more »

The 15 Biggest Mistakes Seniors Make When Downsizing Their Halifax Home

By |

1 The 15 Biggest Mistakes Seniors Make When Downsizing Their Halifax Home

Downsizing your family home in Halifax can be a daunting task, especially for seniors who have lived in the same home for many years. There are many emotional and practical considerations to take into account, and it’s easy to make mistakes along the way.

To help you avoid common downsizing pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 biggest downsizing mistakes seniors make when preparing to sell their family home in Halifax.

1. Not starting early enough

One of the most common downsizing mistakes seniors make is waiting too long to start the downsizing process. Downsizing takes time, especially if you’ve lived in your home for many years and have accumulated a lot of possessions. Starting early can help you avoid feeling rushed and overwhelmed when it’s time to sell your home.

2. Not having a plan

Another common mistake is not having a plan in place for how you will downsize. Without a plan, you may find yourself unsure of what to do with your possessions or feeling like you’re spinning your wheels. Create a checklist of items to keep, donate, or sell, and involve family members or friends to help you stay organized.

3. Not considering the new living space

When downsizing, it’s important to keep in mind the size and layout of your new living space. You may need to get rid of some furniture or other possessions to make everything fit comfortably. Be sure to take measurements of your new home and plan accordingly.

4. Not being realistic about the selling price

If you’re selling your family home in Halifax, it’s important to be realistic about the selling price. Overpricing your home can make it sit on the market for longer than necessary, and you may end up with less money than if you had priced it appropriately from the start. Research the local housing market and consult with a real estate agent to determine a fair asking price.

5. Not addressing necessary repairs or updates

If your home needs repairs or updates, it’s important to address them before you put your home on the market. Buyers may be turned off by a home that needs a lot of work, and you may end up getting less money than you would have if you had made the necessary repairs or updates.

6. Not properly staging the home

Properly staging your home can help it sell faster and for a better price. This means removing personal items, decluttering, and rearranging furniture to make your home look its best. Consider hiring a professional stager to help you make your home as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

7. Not prioritizing important items

It’s important to prioritize important items that have sentimental value or that you use on a daily basis. These items should be easily accessible during the downsizing process so you don’t accidentally get rid of something you need or want to keep.

8. Not properly disposing of unwanted item

It’s important to dispose of unwanted items responsibly. This can mean donating them to charity, recycling them, or throwing them away. Consider the environmental impact of your disposal methods and choose the most responsible option for each item.

9. Not considering the timing of the move

The timing of your move is an important consideration. You’ll need to allow enough time for your home to sell and for you to find a new place to live. You should also consider the time of year and how it might impact the housing market and moving costs.

10. Not involving family members

Involving family members in the downsizing process can be a great way to get emotional and practical support. They can help you sort through your possessions and make decisions about what to keep, donate, or sell. They can also provide emotional support as you prepare to leave your family home.

11. Not seeking professional help

There are many professionals who can help you through the downsizing process, including real estate agents, movers, professional organizers, and estate sale companies. It’s important to seek out and utilize the services of these professionals to make the downsizing process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

12. Not downsizing enough

One of the biggest downsizing mistakes seniors make is not downsizing enough. It can be difficult to let go of possessions that have sentimental value or that you’ve had for a long time, but it’s important to be realistic about what you can bring with you to your new home. Downsizing too little can make the move more difficult and costly.

13. Not considering the emotional impact

Downsizing can be an emotional process, especially if you’ve lived in your family home for many years. It’s important to take the time to acknowledge and address the emotions that come with downsizing, whether it’s sadness, anxiety, or excitement about the future.

14. Not considering the financial impact

Downsizing can also have a financial impact, both in terms of the cost of moving and the potential impact on your retirement savings. It’s important to consider the financial implications of downsizing and to plan for how you will manage your finances in your new living situation.

15.Not taking care of yourself

Finally, one of the biggest downsizing mistakes seniors make is not taking care of themselves during the downsizing process. Downsizing can be physically and emotionally taxing, and it’s important to prioritize self-care during this time. This can mean taking breaks when you need them, seeking out support from loved ones or professionals, and making time for activities that bring you joy.

In conclusion, downsizing your family home in Halifax can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding process. By avoiding common downsizing mistakes and seeking out the support and resources you need, you can make the transition to your new living situation with greater ease and confidence.


homebeat ad The 15 Biggest Mistakes Seniors Make When Downsizing Their Halifax Home

Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later in life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 The 15 Biggest Mistakes Seniors Make When Downsizing Their Halifax Home
Roy Thomas

Read more »

5 Remodeling Projects to Boost Resale Value

By |

reno bathroom 1075x672 5 Remodeling Projects to Boost Resale Value

House hunters will likely wonder about the age and upkeep of certain big-ticket features in a home like the roof and HVAC system. But they will also likely be interested in just how move-in ready the home is. Sellers can take on some prep work to get their house move-in ready to appeal to the largest buyer pool.

HomeLight, a real estate referral company, recently interviewed real estate agents to list some of the top remodeling projects before selling a home. Some of the projects that topped their list and the prices referenced below have increased since the interview:

1. Painting

Average project cost: $954 to $2,893 (depending on location, paint type, and labor)

Stick with neutral colors throughout, like whites, beiges, or soft grays. “It’s fine when there’s an accent wall or whatever; that’s different,” MaryBeth Harrison, a real estate professional in Dallas, told HomeLight. “But when every room’s a different color …  that’s cheap to fix with paint.” More than half of real estate professionals surveyed by HomeLight said they advise sellers to paint their interiors before listing. Some of the most popular colors: Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray and Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter.

2. Keep flooring consistent

To install carpet: $789 to $2,794

To install hardwood floors: $2,493 to $6,754

To install vinyl floors: $800 to $2,900

Real estate pros may be more likely to recommend this house project if the home has several different kinds of flooring throughout. A more uniform flooring look—one or two types—can be more appealing to buyers. Real estate pros say that many buyers may expect hardwood floors or premium vinyl. But not all carpeting has to go. However, many real estate pros do suggest removing any dated carpet, like those in bright colors, as well as any stained or worn carpet.

3. Brighten the kitchen

Average project cost: $382 to $1,064 (depending on equipment and labor); $2 to $20 per piece of hardware. White-colored kitchens remain the most popular. They can brighten the look of the space. “What the buyers are looking for today is white and clean—they just want clean,” Harrison told HomeLight. “It doesn’t have to be stark white. But they just want a clean palette.”

Dated kitchen cabinets can be painted by a pro for a quick fix. If the kitchen has other colors throughout, real estate pros recommend painting the walls white to try to brighten the space. Also, kitchen cabinets can get an upgrade with new hardware, such as hand pulls.

4. Replace dated countertops and appliances

Average project cost: $40 to $100 per square foot for new countertops (depending on material); $1,360 to $19,050 for appliances

Dated appliances and countertops can turn off buyers. If replacing the countertop, Harrison suggests a bright, monochromatic look, such as a gray or white countertop made of granite, marble, or quartz. Butcher block countertops could be a more cost-effective option. Harrison advises against brown or multicolored granite, which she says can date a home. She also recommends not replacing a countertop if the rest of the kitchen has not been upgraded and is dated. New countertops will look out of place.

5. Hire a professional cleaner for your bathroom

Average project cost: $70 to $85 per hour for a professional

A thorough cleaning of the bathroom can make a big difference, and often a professional cleaner can do the most thorough job. Pay attention to tile grout lines and any signs of mildew.


homebeat ad 5 Remodeling Projects to Boost Resale Value

Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later in life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 5 Remodeling Projects to Boost Resale Value
Roy Thomas

Read more »

4 Reasons a Smaller Home May Just Be The Right Size

By |

1 3 4 Reasons a Smaller Home May Just Be The Right Size

Moving into a smaller home can mean letting go of excess possession but it can also mean less burdens and more convenience. Deciding to downsize to a smaller home may increase your quality of life. Below are some reasons why a smaller home may be the right size for you.

Smaller homes cost less money
A smaller home means less taxes, insurance, and cheaper utility costs. It also cost less to maintain and furnish a smaller home. The thought of extra money in your bank account must make you happy. Extra income means different things to different people, it might free up enough money to do that traveling you’ve always dreamt about.

More FREE time
A smaller house is easier to maintain and keep in good repair. With a larger house you may have a schedule in place to clean different levels of your home on different days. Larger homes have more areas that are susceptible to gathering clutter. A small home takes less time to clean. A smaller yard takes less time to mow in the summer. What will you do with all this free time?

Smaller homes are generally built in more walkable areas and have access to public transportation. This means less need for a car. In addition, small houses use less energy. Think about all the rooms that are heated in a large home that rarely get used. Updating and maintenance will require fewer building materials.

Smaller homes are more intimate
No need to yell to be heard in a small home. Some homes are so large seeking out others can feel like two ships passing in the night. Family is more likely to hangout in the same room in a smaller home.

Smaller homes and smaller yards mean closer neighbors. It can provide a stronger sense of belonging and community when you see your neighbours often. A quick conversation and a morning wave just might put a smile on your face.


homebeat ad 4 Reasons a Smaller Home May Just Be The Right Size

Roy Thomas SRES® (Senior’s Real Estate Specialist) is a REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty. Since 1991, Roy specializes in helping retirees with their later in life real estate transactions. Call Roy at 902-497-3031 or contact Roy here

roy e1577059263540 4 Reasons a Smaller Home May Just Be The Right Size
Roy Thomas

Read more »