Referrals by Debbi DiMaggio

Seniors

Working with Seniors: What Families Should Know

May 31, 2025

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I've had the privilege of helping many families navigate one of the most emotionally complex real estate decisions there is: helping an aging parent downsize, relocate, or transition out of the family home.

It requires patience that goes beyond the transaction. It requires understanding that for many seniors, a home isn't just a property — it's decades of memory, identity, and belonging. The process of letting go deserves to be handled with care.

What families should look for in an advisor:

  • Experience specifically with senior clients and the unique emotional dynamics involved
  • Knowledge of senior-specific programs, financial considerations, and community resources
  • The ability to communicate clearly with both the senior and the adult children — who often have different priorities and concerns
  • Patience. Lots of patience.

The agents in my network who specialize in downsizing and senior transitions are people I trust with these conversations. If your family is facing this moment, reach out. I'll connect you with someone who understands.