Monday, January 30, 2017

First Hand - Living in Isolation


This is a scenario I know first hand.  Last spring we lost dad and mom was now alone in their home of 66 years.  With the exception of grocery shopping, she never left the house.  Her friends had passed away, her church had closed, family members had passed away,  or moved, and television became her best friend.

After a bit of time passed, she began talking of the loneliness she was experiencing.  This type of social isolation has been linked to several health issues, both mental and physical.  Depression, cognitive decline, high blood pressure and other medical problems started to become prevalent.

So, what can we do???  The first thing, be willing to recognize the problem. It’s important to address the issue sooner rather than later in order to prevent a downward spiral of problems.

Some of the things we discussed were: becoming active in a social group,  getting her up to speed with technology, hiring an assistant for helping with laundry and shopping and driving. Another option was to move out of the house to a community style senior residence.  Upon discussing what was the safest lifestyle and what she wanted, she became open to trying a senior residence where she can enjoy as much (or as little) social interaction as she chooses. To help pay for the cost of her stay, we recognized her major asset was the home.

She did not like the new lifestyle at first.  But in a recent conversation, she mentioned that she likes not having to cook for herself and has FUN at bingo.  Good choice mom!! 


If you have a family member or friend experiencing this type of scenario and want someone to help with selling their real estate and maximizing the value of  their largest asset, call me, Tim Brodowski, Coldwell Banker Real Estate.  858-354-2354.  I promise the same patience and understanding that I give my mom.  Thanks for allowing me to share my personal story.  BRE #01224576



Friday, January 20, 2017

5 Things to Look for in Your San Diego Neighborhood



Since relocating is such a major undertaking, it’s vital to thoroughly research your options. Here are five things to assess in a prospective neighborhood to ensure you’ll feel at home.

1.      Transportation
One consideration is how you’ll navigate your new surroundings. Find out whether you’ll have access to public transportation or need a car. If you can use public transit, what are the service hours and stops? If you require airport proximity, determine how you’ll get there. The amount of time it will take to get to all your destinations.

2.      Businesses
Before visiting a neighborhood, think about businesses you’ll be frequenting, such as a bank, medical services, grocery store, pharmacy and retail shops. Make sure they’re a comfortable distance from your prospective home.

3.      Schools
If you have children, another must-have is access to quality education. Concerning school reputation, consider and attend a PTA meeting at a given school. By speaking with other parents, you’ll get firsthand information on the school’s quality.

4.      Amenities
Do you like to frequent the gym, the park, restaurants, pubs, music venue or the theatre? Research the proximity to your favorite venues and activities.

5.      Economy
Drive through the streets of a potential neighborhood and look for clues. Are businesses opening up, clean streets, and a prevalence of people moving in the area? Look for indications that people care about their property and each other. Do houses and landscapes look maintained? Are neighbors interacting? Talk to them and ask about their experience of living there.

Get detailed information from reliable sources. Invite conversation, and record your observations. Then make your smart move. You’ll be able to settle down for as long as needed in a wonderful neighborhood with the help of Tim Brodowskicall Tim at 858-354-2354BRE #01224576



Thursday, January 19, 2017

Retiring and Thinking of Downsizing?


Or thinking about buying or selling your home?

Your Personal Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, 
TIM BRODOWSKI CAN HELP!

A Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, or SRES®, is a REALTOR® who has received extensive training in helping 50+ home buyers and sellers. Tim understands that the decision to move can be difficult and he can help you navigate your choices. Tim will help make the transaction less stressful and help you maximize value of your current property.

You can reach Tim at 858-354-2354. BRE #01224576

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

A Seniors Real Estate Specialist Can Help!


Tim Brodowski, REALTOR
Earns Seniors Real Estate Specialist Designation

San Diego — Tim Brodowski with Coldwell Banker Real Estate has earned the nationally recognized Seniors Real Estate Specialist® designation from the Seniors Real Estate Specialist Council of the National Association of Realtors®.

Working with seniors to meet their changing housing needs requires an expert understanding of their lifestyle and financial needs.  Tim’s 20 years of real estate experience combined with his SRES training provides his clients with an agent who understands their particular wants, needs, and goals.  His clients understand that he will look out for them every step of the real estate process.

SRES® Council, founded in 2007, is the world's largest association of real estate professionals focusing specifically on representing senior clients in real estate transactions.

“You can count on Tim to guide you and your loved ones through the process of selling a home, making the transaction less stressful for everyone involved.”  - Mary J.


To set up a free consultation with Tim regarding your specific goals, call Tim today 
858-354-2354. BRE #01224576