Imagine an elderly woman leaving her long time home that she loves and transitioning to a life of the unknown.

I stood in front of my family home, tears streaming down my face. This house held so many memories, but it was time to say goodbye. My kids were grown, and the thought of maintaining such a big place was overwhelming. I was torn between wanting to keep the memories alive and wanting to start a new chapter in my life.

I was stuck, caught in the grip of an invisible monster that whispered doubts in my ear. "Who will buy this house? What if it doesn't sell? What if I can't afford to move?" These fears threatened to consume me, but I knew I had to face them head-on.

I felt lost and alone, until a glimmer of hope appeared. A Realtor came into my life, and she was the key to unlocking the door to my future. She was knowledgeable, confident, and reassuring. She listened to my worries and helped me turn them into actionable steps.

Together, we tackled the monster and defeated it. She walked me through the process of selling my home, and I was amazed at the smoothness of the journey. This Realtor took care of everything, from pricing and marketing to negotiations and closing. She took the weight of the world off my shoulders, and I was able to relax and enjoy the ride.

In the end, my family home was sold, and I was able to move on to the next chapter of my life with ease. This realtor became my ally, my friend, and my savior. I will never forget the gift she gave me: peace of mind and a brighter future.

Although this story is fabricated, it represents how many of our elderly seniors feel about making a transition from a home they have loved for decades to a life of many unknowns. Perhaps more preparation is needed, following are:

10 Ways How Seniors Can Overcome Fears About Selling Their Long Time Home 

1. Work with a real estate agent who specializes in senior transitions (I am an SRES*)

2. Seek professional advice from a financial planner or an elder law attorneyhttp;//ContactAgiNow.com

3. Make a list of their priorities and goals for the next chapter of life

4. Research options for new housing, such as 55+ communities or downsizing

5. Visit potential new homes and communities to get a feel for the new living situation

6. Create a timeline and a plan for the move to ensure a smooth transition

7. Connect with support networks, such as friends, family, or local groups

8. Organize belongings and declutter before the move

9. Consider selling unwanted items through an estate sale or online auction 

10. Consider getting a home equity conversion mortgage to supplement retirement income.

If you or a family member need assistance with helping a senior sell a home and locate a new place to live, my team and I are on standby ready to help. 

Call / Text me at

ContactAgiNow.com

I am happy to answer questions and provide guidance. I have been a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) for more than a decade.

Homeowners insurance is a necessary evil that every homeowner dreads discussing. I get that! But homeowners insurance is evolving. I realized buyers and homeowners need to be informed about changes taking place with Florida homeowners insurance.

In my last episode of #AgiTV I met with Monica Santiago online (our second session), from Assured Partners Insurance to review, Is Your Home Under Insured? Watch the video and learn why it's so important to be properly insured. Just below the video, Monica provides 10 Ways to Reduce Your Insurance Premium

Also be sure to check out the Homeowners Insurance Playlist. 

10 ways to reduce the cost of insurance: 

1. Shop your insurance rates before your renewal.
2. Review your coverages to make sure you do not have “Too Much” insurance or coverages you do not need.
3. Make your home more disaster resistant (hurricane windows, shutters, garage doors etc.)
4. Improve your home security with a centrally monitored alarm system.
5. Maintain a good credit record (yes insurance may take into account your credit eligibility when pricing your policy).
6. Look at bundling your home and auto insurance with the same company for a “Bundle” discount.
7. Newer homes may receive a discount depending on who the builder of their home is.
8. Update your insurance company if you get a new roof on your home.
9. Wind mitigation inspections are great to see if you qualify for an additional insurance discount. This would be eligible for homes over a certain age.
10. Avoid small claims

Have questions about your insurance? Contact Monica:

The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) and the Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) announced Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation a global leader in the aerospace industry, has selected Florida’s Space Coast for its new major maintenance facility. This new state-of-the-art factory will spur a capital investment of $115 million and the creation of 400 new jobs. Continued ...

Moving after retirement can be very exciting. It’s the chapter of your life that you have probably been dreaming about for some time. You no longer have to live near your place of employment, and you’re free to go make a new home wherever you wish.

For many people, that’s Florida. With warm winters and lots of outdoor activities available, it’s no wonder it’s been the top destination for retirees for decades. While the entire state has lots to offer everyone, you might find the hidden gem you’ve been searching for on Florida’s Space Coast. Besides its gorgeous beaches, you’ll be able to experience a rocket launch up close, embark on a cruise from beautiful Port Canaveral, or just simply walk the beautiful Brevard beaches that stretch for miles on end.

Contact the Brevard FL Realtors with Coastal Life Properties and let them introduce you to the beautiful properties available there, as well as all the things that make the area unique and perfect for retirees. You can also check homes for sale in 55+ communities at 55PlusHomesBrevard.com. Another useful resource is Brevard Florida Living which has events, places to eat and more on the Brevard Florida Space Coast.

Before the Move

The first step is to start with the home you already have. If you have lived in your current house for a long time, chances are that you know where everything is and you’ve got things pretty well organized. This will help you avoid unnecessary stress when it comes to the moving process. Start early and pack things up gradually, making sure to mark each box clearly and keep a corresponding ledger with that box’s number and contents. Before hiring a mover, go online and get unbiased reviews to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable business.

Move all the items that will make your new place feel like home, but don’t try to recreate what you’re leaving either. Your new home should reflect your new lifestyle and community. If it doesn’t have a lot of sentimental value, you can probably sell or donate it rather than move it.

Bring things with you in your car or carry-on bags that are too important to chance being lost. Those might be birth and marriage certificates, health records and prescription drugs, your will, and all other vital records and immediate necessities.

Your New Home

Once you’ve moved your furnishings in, check to be sure that the homeowner’s insurance you’ve purchased is adequate for your home and belongings. Home insurance rates are influenced by factors such as your location: Is your area prone to natural disasters-are you close to a shoreline? The cost of replacing your home is another factor. Any insurance company you contact will look at your credit and claims history, too. Before choosing a provider, take into account coverage, costs, and benefits. Different insurance companies might suit your needs better if they provide coverage for things that are important to you, like electronics coverage or identity theft. Some insurers will let you bundle your homeowners’ insurance with your automobile policy, offering a discounted rate when you do. There are resources to help you in finding the best rates for home insurance.

You might want to look into purchasing a home warranty for the things that your homeowner’s insurance will not cover, as well, like replacing HVAC systems or major appliances. Again, options for home warranty companies are plenty, so make sure to do your research, comparing various providers’ coverage options and rates and weighing them with your needs.

If you’ll be working from home, start off right by making it as stress-free as possible with lots of cabinets to store things and keep them from becoming clutter. And choose a room with a great view so you can enjoy your new surroundings even when you’re working.

You’ll also want to revitalize spaces that you will be spending lots of time in, like your kitchen. Updated appliances will make cooking food for your family more pleasurable, as well as convenient. An under-the-cabinet range hood, for instance, will vent grease and smoke as you cook, keeping your kitchen an open and inviting space.

Of course, your home’s needs do not end here. If you need new appliances and other home implements, make sure to research and read consumer reviews to make your investments worthwhile.

Get to Know Your New Home Town

Take some time to visit your new city as a tourist would. There are plenty of free things to do on the Brevard FL Space Cast. You could take a walking tour. Look for museums and galleries that are free of charge or at least offer a discounted rate for seniors. Check the local newspapers for upcoming events like fairs and festivals.

Find people with similar interests by looking online at sites like Meetup.com or on Facebook Neighborhood pages.

Then work on becoming a local. Find a favorite grocery store, pharmacy, and movie theater. Make appointments with doctors, dentists and optometrists. Visit the local library and get a library card. See what volunteer opportunities interest you and get involved. There are plenty of ways to make new friends, just look for opportunities and seize them.

Getting a good start by beginning early with your move, finding the perfect home for you, and protecting that new home and its assets will make your move a lot more hassle-free. Then once you’re there, get out and get involved. It won’t be long before your new city feels like home sweet home. 

Guest Post by, Mike Longsdon with Elder Freedom

Homeowners insurance change is impacting exiting homeowners, as well as homebuyers wanting to obtain homeowners insurance in Florida. I reached out to Monica Santiago, Marketing Manager for Assured Partners Insurance to help clarify what homeowners need to know about renewing homeowners insurance policies and what home buyers are required to provide to obtain homeowners insurance.

In the video Monica shares what homeowners need to know about renewing a homeowners insurance policy and what buyers are required to provide to obtain homeowners insurance.

To receive all the questions I asked Monica, along with the answers that were provided. Email me at ContactAgiNow.com

Join me and Monica for a LIVE session, along with Elizabeth Dodson, CEO of HomeZada,

Is Your Home Under Insured?
October 27, 2022
1:30 PM EST

I have 90 spaces available, a zoom link is required to attend. Please let me know if you would like to join us and I will send you a link.

What does living a “coastal lifestyle” really mean? Here on the Brevard FL Space Coast, living coastal means time moving just a little bit slower, activities being done at a leisurely pace and strangers smiling and striking up a friendly conversation. Between the calming smell of the sea, the weather and the endless activities – the pins on my Pinterest board portray why you’ll fall in love with coastal living and enjoy a relaxing life living on the Space Coast

Coastal living on the Brevard FL Space Coast is all about loving water, fun, sand and sun. Boating, fishing, surfing, bicycling, and walking along the ocean are just some of the favored activities residents enjoy living by the waterways along the 72 mile stretch in Brevard County, Fl.

With all that water, it’s no wonder why boating in Brevard is living a coastal way of life. If you don’t have your boat at a private dock,  there are lots of places to launch your boat throughout Brevard County. Many restaurants provide docking up spaces to enjoy grabbing a bite to eat on the water, very much a part of our coastal lifestyle on the Space Coast.

If your searching for a home on the water, I have a page dedicated to waterfront homes. You can also search by subdivision all throughout the Brevard FL Space Coast.

A new coastal life home often inspires new home furnishings and accessories that  exemplifies a coastal lifestyle. Be sure to see the affiliate top name merchants on the Home & Lifestyle page.

Guest post by, Michael Longsdon 

Brevard County is the kind of area real estate investors dream of buying into. With miles of oceanfront views and activities and millions of visitors year-round, a Brevard County rental property is a good investment. And as property prices continue to remain relatively stable, investing in a home here may be a safe bet. However, Agi Anderson explains that new investors have two major obstacles to overcome before they reap the rewards of Brevard County’s strong real estate market.

The Price

High home prices make it challenging for first-time investors to buy into the Brevard County market, especially in exclusive areas like Diana Shores where a single-family home will cost at least $700,000, but investors who know where to look could find a steal. A fantastic resource is an experienced realtor who’s intimately familiar with the area, like Agi Anderson.

While remaining close to the oceanfront lets vacation rental owners charge a premium, homes in the surrounding area can be a good choice for an investment property as well. Palm Bay attracts visitors while offering more moderately priced homes than you’ll find within Melbourne city limits, making it a sound choice for investors.

What investors shouldn’t do is wander too far from the action in search of an affordable price point. Most travelers want to be within 15 to 20 minutes of all that Melbourne has to offer, whether that’s water sports, golfing, or corporate conventions. That means remaining within a short drive of the Space Coast Convention Center, and less if catering primarily to beach enthusiasts.

The Law

Like many popular tourist destinations, Brevard County has had to grapple with the ways that short-term rentals have changed the local housing market, as CNBC points out. While short-term rentals aren’t at risk of being banned in Brevard County, investors do need to comply with local regulations to avoid incurring fines. As there are risks in any business, many rental investors operate as a limited liability company (LLC) to protect their personal assets. If you’re unfamiliar with starting a business, use this guide on how to start a company to help you get started.

Due to the abundance of distinct communities within Brevard County, it is difficult to offer specific guidance about establishing a short-term rental property. However, most short-term rentals are classified as “vacation rentals” under Florida law. Local regulations affecting short-term rentals may change, so consult the local government office for the most current information.

Within town and city limits, buyers should refer to city code. In addition to city and county regulations, short-term rentals may be limited by a homeowner’s association. 

While these factors can make Brevard County an intimidating market for first-time real estate investors, it’s no reason to shy away from buying in this world-class vacation town. Just as Brevard County tourism shows no signs of slowing, nor does its robust real estate market. Investors who get in on the action will enjoy high demand for their vacation rental while knowing they own a little slice of paradise that will only grow in value over the years.

I am Agi Anderson, Your Brevard FL REALTOR® on standby ready to assist with your real estate needs on the Brevard FL Space Coast. I am confident you will enjoy navigating my website which features the best real estate information to buy, sell and invest on the Florida Space Coast. Happy to answer questions you may have. You can call / text me at ContactAgiNow.com 

A big thanks to Michael Longsdon with elderfreedom.net I always welcome his contributions!

I am starting an early bird preview list to take a look at this fabulous, Merritt Island lakefront home in May, before it goes into the MLS. ContactAgiNow.com

• 5 bedrooms
• 2.5 baths
• 3 car garage
• split plan
• quartz countertops
• open floor plan

A post from the Hartford by Johnna Kaplan and Alaina Tweddale 

The least effective time to categorize your belongings is right after you lose them.

Property damage claims are surprisingly common. Every year, about five in every hundred homeowners file a claim. These claims usually follow a burglary, hailstorm, house fire or other disaster. But what happens if you call your insurance company to file your claim and you can’t remember what items you had in the house?

There is NO COST to get started and inventory your home with

When it comes down to it, it’s important to know which model TV you own, the manufacturer of your sofa-loveseat combo and the year your riding mower was produced. Those seemingly unimportant details about your personal property are the exact elements your insurance company needs to speed up the claims process—so you can recoup your financial losses faster Continue to post

Guest Post by, Mike Longsdon with Elder Freedom

Simplify and Downsize in Your Retirement Years, it's something to contemplate. Whether you're approaching retirement or downsizing after the kids have left home, you may find moving is harder than when you were younger. In addition to facing more physical strain, there are many emotions that come with leaving behind a home where you've made so many memories. During this emotional time, it's possible that you'll overlook or forget important tasks. One solution is to hire senior move managers who help you relocate smoothly, working with you from the day you get Agi Anderson, Your Brevard FL Realtor to put the house on the market for sale to the day you finally settle into your new home.

Hire a Senior Move Manager

It's important to find a senior move manager who is reliable, trustworthy, and affordable. Use the following steps for choosing a move manager:

• Ask friends, family, and co-workers if they've worked with these professionals. Real estate agents or members of the community where you're moving may also be valuable resources.

• Research senior move managers in your area and make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities, as explained by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

• Reach out to the Better Business Bureau for customer references to contact.

• Always ask service providers to verify proper licensing and insurance coverage.

Compare the Services and Cost Breakdown

Before you finalize your decision, carefully compare the services provided by each move manager. The details of each service provider may vary, but some services are fairly standard:

• Choosing a realtor to sell the family home

• Decluttering and presenting the home

• Helping you downsize

• Organizing an estate sale

• Packing furnishings and possessions

• Loading moving trucks

• Unpacking at the new home

• Setting up furniture and arranging other belongings

Find out whether you'll be charged per service or whether all services come as a package deal. It's helpful to determine your budget ahead of time, so you don't find yourself paying more than you expected. Follow these budgeting tips according to experienced movers.

Compare Moving Costs

In addition to comparing services, you should consider how you'll be charged. Look for a senior move manager who provides a binding not-to-exceed estimate. Your final bill may be lower than the estimate, but you won't be charged more. A binding estimate means that you'll pay a fixed amount even if you believe the mover overestimated the weight of your belongings. With a non-binding estimate, you may pay more or less than the original quoted estimate.

Settle Into Your New Home

One important step you need to take before your move is complete is having the locks re-keyed. Use the same steps to find a reputable locksmith that you used to choose your move manager, including asking people you know for recommendations, reviewing customer testimonials, and making sure that licensing, bonding, and insurance are in order. Some local locksmiths may offer a warranty. When it comes to comparing costs, keep in mind that an average door re-key runs between $50 to $150 per lock, but costs may vary from one location to another.

When the stress of downsizing your belongings and leaving your home and neighbors behind is over, you still need to settle into your new home. Fortunately, experienced senior move managers help you get comfortable and make sure that you're safe in your new home.

Share the Load

After a lifetime of looking after and caring for others, you deserve the chance to simplify tasks during your retirement years. When you hire a senior move manager, you can still be involved in the important decisions, but you won't have to carry the burden of those decisions alone, while a realtor like Agi will ensure that your property’s value is preserved so you get the best possible ROI. Get in touch with Agi Anderson, Your Brevard FL Realtor with Space Coast Realty & Investments, LLC today! 321-698-0021