Three steps to help downsize in a hurry
Ideally, you’d spend months or even years carefully purging excess belongings — but life may have other plans. Maybe you or someone you love has a health crisis and needs to move into assisted living. Or perhaps someone has died, and their home has to be cleared before next month’s rent is due. Maybe you’re just moving soon and want to significantly lighten your load. If you... READ MORE
Some pros and cons of retiring abroad
Retirement is one of the most exciting phases in a person’s life, and for good reason: Suddenly, for the first time in decades — or maybe even ever — all your time is yours. It’s an opportunity to try different things, embark on new adventures, or simply relax for once. But where should you spend your time embracing the luxury of retirement? While plenty of people opt to stay... READ MORE
Has time come to buy your dream house?
I don’t know about you, but over the last few years, the conversation at just about every barbecue or dinner party inevitably turns to how high real estate prices have become. And just as quickly, the blame is laid at the feet of Airbnb — the online short-term rental company that enables homeowners to rent out spare rooms or entire homes, giving travelers alternatives to traditional... READ MORE
Five facts to know about assisted living
If you or a loved one can no longer live safely at home, assisted living may be the answer. Residents typically live in their own rooms or apartments and get housekeeping services, meals and help with personal care. But facilities can vary enormously, and people’s expectations about assisted living often clash with reality, experts say. Here are some important things to know. 1.... READ MORE
Villages can help neighbors age in place — DC Edition
A few decades ago, it was easy to live out your golden years at home. Neighbors might knock on the door with a casserole in hand, check in to see if you need anything, even give you a ride to the doctor. Nowadays, older adults might find living at home a bit lonely. That’s where a “village” can help. What exactly is a village? “Villages are a community of people who care about ... READ MORE
DC Housing News — January 2024
Plans for new affordable apartments in Silver Spring, Md. When Falkland Chase opened in 1937 in Silver Spring, Maryland, Eleanor Roosevelt cut the ribbon at what was then the D.C. area’s largest garden-style apartment complex. Now Falkland Chase has a new owner and a new purpose. Last fall, developer Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH), based in Arlington, Virginia, ... READ MORE
Villages can help neighbors age in place — Baltimore Edition
For those aging in their longtime home, tasks that used to be routine may over time become daunting. Driving at night and getting to medical appointments might become challenging, too. And for those who live alone, life can become, well, lonely. If you happen to live in northwest Baltimore, however, a volunteer group can be of help. Founded in 2012, Northwest Neighbors Connecting (NNC)... READ MORE
Advances in smart homes and devices
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is the latest technology to make headlines. Its ability to create human-like conversation and interaction is what sets it apart from existing computer systems. Our homes are becoming more intelligent with AI-powered devices controlling our lights, thermostats and more. Such residences (often dubbed “smart homes”) are characterized by the ability to... READ MORE
Save money and energy with a home audit
One of the best ways to save money on energy costs is by scheduling a home audit from your local energy company. Below is information about free or low-cost audits, which may also provide you with devices to reduce energy use and cut costs this winter. In Maryland Pepco offers a discounted home energy assessment for customers in Maryland with an active account through the Home Performance ... READ MORE
Preventing falls at home, room by room
Many falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. Here are some changes you can make to your home, wherever you live, that will help prevent falls and better ensure your safety: Floors, stairways and hallways Ensure there are handrails on both sides of any stairs, and make sure they are secure. Hold the handrails when... READ MORE
