Addressing The Real Estate Needs Of Senior Citizens

By Nancy K. Crevier

“What is a seniors real estate specialist and what are the advantages for you?” was the topic of the program presented by Marilynn Klepfer, seniors real estate specialist (SRES) with Prudential Connecticut Realty and co-chair of the Brookfield Commission on Aging, Thursday, September 7, at the Newtown Senior Center on Riverside Road in Sandy Hook.

An SRES, explained Ms Klepfer, is a member of the National Association of Realtors who, through additional hours of training on seniors’ issues relating to real estate, is better qualified to help senior citizens involved in real estate transactions make the best decision for their particular circumstance. Just as specialists in legal matters, finances, and banking are available to senior citizens, the SRES can be part of a team of experts skilled in aiding the elderly.

“My goal,” said Ms Klepfer, “is to help you have peace of mind.”

While any real estate agent is capable of handling real estate matters for seniors, she explained, an SRES works as a sort of “counselor” through the whole process. Senior citizens are at a different stage in their lives than a younger client, and have different needs that have to be addressed. An SRES is trained to help with not only the financial situations of the older client, but also physical, psychological, and family needs. “Making change takes time and consideration,” Ms Klepfer said. “The SRES realtor can act as a sounding board and offer guidance.”

An SRES can offer guidance on senior housing options, assisted living choices, downsizing, and even refer nationwide to other SRES agents if a long-range move is in order.

One of approximately two dozen SRES trained realtors in the area, Ms Klepfer provides consultation and referrals for seniors involved in real estate transactions. She makes a point of networking with organizations and other people who work with senior citizens to familiarize herself with local resources. An SRES, she stressed, offers guidance and advice, and does not take the place of a lawyer or trained financial expert.

What an SRES can do is create a customized plan of approach to senior citizens considering real estate changes. “A real estate strategy is important,” she told the attentive group. “It is probably going to fund the remaining years of your life. A real estate plan is like having a living will. In case of an emergency, having a plan in place and someone who knows your plan could save you money.” Having a real estate plan in place also empowers seniors, she said, and reduces the stress of change.

Director of the Newtown Senior Center Marilyn Place commented that Ms Klepfer is just one of many specialists the center has had speak there in order to make members aware of the many resources available to them. As the director, she is frequently asked by members for guidance on many issues. “When I know about someone like Marilynn [Klepfer],” she said, “it makes my job easier and Ann’s [Piccini, Newtown social services director] easier, too. The more resources we know about, the better job we can do when people come to us with questions.”

Ms Klepfer provided worksheets, newsletters, and handouts related to her specialty and the area of senior real estate for attendees to peruse at their leisure, followed by a drawing. Senior Center member Jessie Suppan won the $20 Big Y Supermarket gift certificate.