Fund a dream retirement with your home
Selling a mortgage-free house can put money in your pocket and give you the opportunity to dream, explore or start a new life in a different area. Consider Suzanne and Paul, who had paid off their mortgage and were willing to take on some risk. First, they sold their suburban New York home and left for Israel, where they rented an apartment for 10 months. “By moving to a less... READ MORE
D.C. Housing News — October 2021
Game table entertains, engages This summer, residents of The Virginian, a senior living community in Fairfax, Virginia, noticed an unusual new table in their common room. Called Obie for Seniors, the table-like device projects colorful games onto its surface. One to four players can participate, slapping the table and dragging their fingers across the illuminated screen. “The... READ MORE
Wise remodeling increases home value
Some remodeling choices may add value to homes, and others can actually subtract value — and some choices, such as a built-in aquarium, may make a property challenging to sell. Most remodeling projects cost more than the amount your home’s value will increase, so you shouldn’t assume that you’ll recoup every cent you spend on a home-improvement project. However, some types of... READ MORE
Two ways to utilize a reverse mortgage
Reverse mortgages have gone through many transformations and improvements in recent years. No longer considered “loans of last resort,” they are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners age 60 and up who have equity in their homes and want to bolster their nest egg. In short, reverse mortgages can pay off and replace a traditional mortgage loan, reducing the burden of a... READ MORE
Benefits from a multigenerational home
The pandemic has undoubtedly changed our lives in many ways. One outcome is that an increasing number of families share their homes with multiple generations. While this living arrangement might not work for everyone, it does have its own set of unique benefits. A multigenerational home consists of at least two generations of family living together. Whether it’s an older adult child... READ MORE
Donate to declutter: Where, when and how
While isolated at home this past 18 months, some of us opened closets that had not seen the light of day for years. Faced with time at home and a tsunami of clutter, we cleaned our way through the pandemic. Now, what to do with all the suits no longer suitable, forgotten housewares or books stacked up to the ceiling? Give them away, of course! Starting in the summer of 2020,... READ MORE
Baltimore Housing News — October 2021
Highly rated rehab St. Elizabeth Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Southwest Baltimore received high praise this year from the 2020 Maryland Home Family Experience of Care Survey. In fact, 93% of residents’ families said that they would recommend St. Elizabeth Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, operated by Catholic Charities of Baltimore. Ratings for satisfaction with staff and... READ MORE
Considering an RV? Mistakes to avoid
Recreational vehicle sales are soaring, and the RV industry expects 2021 to be a record-breaking year. Dealerships say much of the demand is coming from first-time buyers and others anxious to find a safer way to vacation during the pandemic. As any RV owner will tell you, though, buying a motorhome, camper or trailer is a complex process that requires a ton of decisions. The more... READ MORE
D.C. Housing News — July 2021
Modena Reserve to open in fall 2021 This fall, Solera Senior Living will open its newest senior living community, Modena Reserve at Kensington in Maryland. The facility blends contemporary design with historic architecture, transforming the former Mizell Gas Station and Mizell Hardware and Lumber Store into unique community spaces. Located next to the Kensington train depot and several... READ MORE
Should you rent or buy your next home?
The housing market is hot, and it’s a great time to sell your home. But if you’re thinking about renting your next one, consider the tradeoffs. Renting temporarily is fine if you want to try a new location or if you anticipate moving frequently early in retirement. However, the longer you rent in retirement, the riskier it becomes. Buying a home usually makes more sense if you... READ MORE
