Bruce Nemovitz

Last month's article dealt with the greatest fears about the future. The overwhelming answer was health issues. Staying connected, seeking professional help to answer fears and concerns can get you moving in the right direction. This month we'll discuss the question, 'what do you find most confusing about current senior housing options?' The comments were compiled from over 700 seniors who attended my senior housing seminars.

Cost or pricing issues, in relation to senior housing options, dominated the answers. There are more and more options for housing as companies compete for the senior market. Options include apartments, independent care, assisted care, life care, and other viable options. When looking for housing, it is important to assess your needs and match them to the type of housing that meets physical and lifestyle demands. Location is important, as many of my senior clients prefer to locate in the same neighborhood that they currently live in.

Here are some of the most often mentioned concerns as to the cost and pricing issues:

Security deposits, monthly payments, rate changes or increases, terms of lease agreement, rules and regulations (rights of residents), future cost increases, amenities (such as pool, exercise room, club house), utilities, refundable fees vs. non-refundable fees.

I suggest calling any senior housing facility, and ask for the marketing director. Most marketing directors are well versed in costs and pricing issues. You'll find that the majority of directors will be extremely knowledgeable, as well as ready to give you the direction you'll need. There are also senior placement services, that specialize in assessing individual needs (physical and financial), who will guide you to the best options to meet the demands of your individual situation.

Certified Senior Advisors, as well as Senior Financial Consultants, can explain the various housing options available, and which options best meet your financial and physical demands.

There is an abundance of senior housing options available. Just ask for help! The help is out there ready to assist you in finding the best housing options available. As senior housing is becoming more and more available, it is important to do the research right now! It is amazing as to how many wonderful options are available.

When information becomes so readily available, it can overload the senses! Therefore, take baby steps. Start by looking at your finances. Statistics tell us that for most seniors; at least 40% of their retirement funds come from the sale of their home. That's right, over 40%! Call a Senior Real Estate Specialist to find out what the net amount will be after the sale of your home. A senior specialist will take time to look at the condition and make suggestions as to how to best prepare the home for market, as well as, determine the value of your home in today's market.

Next, call a Certified Senior Advisor or a Senior Financial Planner, to discuss the best use of your retirement funds. They will advise you as to the affordability of the many options out there. You may be surprised as to what you can afford and the many choices available to you.

Once you've determined funds available and how best to utilize them, it's time to talk to a Marketing Director at a senior housing community. You will have the information necessary to discuss your options intelligently. There are many wonderful communities out there which will share their knowledge with you at no cost!

Take advantage of the many professionals who are ready willing and able to help you find your freedom to enjoy your retirement, and prepare you for the coming years. Do this while you are healthy, so that you make this critical decision without the added stress of health issues. What do I hear most often from my clients who have made the move to senior housing? 'I wish I had done it sooner!!'

Next month's article will deal with the question, 'what are the most positive changes you see in the future?'

By Bruce Nemovitz, Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist, Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce and his team can be reached at 262-242-6177 or email at: Bruce@BrucesTeam.com