What is an SRES®?
A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) is a REALTOR® who is uniquely qualified to assist seniors in housing sales and purchases. The SRES® designation is awarded only to REALTORS® who have additional education on how to help seniors and their families with later-in-life real estate transactions.
They also draw upon the expertise of a network of senior specialists, such as estate planners, CPAs, and eldercare lawyers, and are familiar with local community resources and services. Their mission is to help seniors and their families navigate the maze of financial, legal and emotional issues that accompany the sale of the home.
What qualities make an SRES® different?
- Has knowledge, experience and compassion in dealing with senior issues.
- Can suggest housing alternatives, including ones that may allow an aging parent to remain in the home instead of selling it.
- Takes a no-nonsense approach to the transaction and has a strong service orientation.
- Will take the time needed to make a client feel comfortable with the complex selling process.
- Understands the emotional demands a sale can make on a senior, and tries to minimize them.
- Tailors the marketing of a home to the needs of an older client.
- Can interact easily with all generations, including seniors, adult children and caretakers.
- Is knowledgeable about local senior housing options and elder support services.
- Has a wide network of other senior focused professionals who can assist in tax counseling, financial and estate planning, and other aspects of the sale and move.
- Has ties throughout the local senior community.
An SRES® also maintains a professional network that includes individuals who can help with the various steps of the sale and move, offering assistance on the following:
- The decision to sell: reverse mortgage counselors can look at ways to use the home's equity to allow a senior to remain in their home, if that's preferred.
- Prior to listing: tax specialists and financial planners to examine ways to protect assets.
- Preparing the home for showing: handymen, landscapers and clutter reduction specialists.
- Legal considerations: real estate attorneys to help with estate planning or closing.
- Moving: downsizing experts, senior moving specialists, estate sale planners. and storage facilities.