Time to Reflect

Holidays can bring cheer, generosity, and fellowship, but it can also stir up emotions that have lingered beneath the surface. My articles are bent toward real estate and how we can make better decisions when the situation calls for action. The same is true for what feelings lie beneath the surface as we begin to ponder our lives and well-being.

Real estate is a term. It can be a thing. It can be a place. In other words, real estate is where we live and spend our days and so critical to our general happiness, security, and financial stability. The new year also brings thoughts about those we love and care for. Are they flourishing in their homes or is it becoming obvious that a change may be needed in terms of their security, safety, and stability?

I truly believe that all of us want to remain independent for as long as possible. That is foremost when making decisions as to where we live. As we age, our health is on our minds as we do what is necessary to maintain a quality life. Health and independence are inexorably tied together. Since we cannot predict the future health regarding our bodies and minds, we can only make decisions based on current data. However, we must look to the future with honesty and courage when making crucial decisions such as where we will spend our retirement years.

I know that change is difficult. I also know that accepting our realities when challenged can be overwhelming. Navigating stairs, difficulty in maintaining of our homes or changing health needs can all be here at our doorstep or coming in our future. It is imperative that we be honest with ourselves, partners, and family so that we don’t react with crisis management. By that, I mean waiting for a sign as to when you will make your change. That sign can come as a health emergency, or lack of maintenance of your home.

So, take the next few weeks to truly assess your needs. Does your home match who you are today? Do you have a plan to retrofit your home as your health needs change? Do you feel as secure as you once did in your home? Are you tired of finding reliable contractors to help with lawn care, snow removal and general maintenance? Your answer may be that staying in your home is the best decision. Whether staying or moving in the future, be honest with that one person that truly must provide a positive environment for years to come. That person of course is you!

Happy Holidays to you and your family. I want to wish you the best of health and happiness always and of course, thank you for taking the time to read my articles!

Bruce Nemovitz is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, a Certified Residential Specialist, as well as Certified Senior Advisor. He has started a company to help agents across the country understand the unique perspectives of seniors and their families as they transition from their long-time homes. Bruce sells   residential homes in the four county Milwaukee-Metro area and has done so for over 35 years. He has published a book called “Moving in the Right Direction”, A Senior’s Guide to Moving and Downsizing. Bruce has written a second book for the children of seniors, “Guiding Our Parents in the Right Direction”, Practical Advice about Seniors Moving from the Home They Love. These books are now available at  https://www.brucesteam.com/bruces-books/. Past articles about moving and downsizing and other important information can be found at www.BrucesTeam.com. His website information centers on the challenge of moving from a long-time home into a senior apartment or community. Bruce received the 2010 “Realtor of the Year” from the board of the GMAR (Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors with almost 4,000 members).   He has been listed in Milwaukee Magazine’s 5-Star Agents list for the last seven years in a row. As such, he’s one of only a handful of Realtors who are continually included in the top 7% in client satisfaction in the Milwaukee Metro area. He’s rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, and was a finalist for Concordia College’s Ethical Business Leadership Award.  He is actively working selling senior’s homes with his wife Jeanne.