What Does It Mean if a REALTOR®
Has an SRES Designation

Oct. 10-10-24

For every population of homebuyers and sellers, there are different needs. For example, a first-time homebuyer needs much more instruction along the way because everything is new to them, and a client relocating will need to know about the area they are moving to and proximity to work if they don’t work from home as well as the requirements of the relocation company. As I have mentioned in previous blogs, I will continue to work with all types of buyers and sellers. However, I decided to get my Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation, so I can better serve the 50+ population. This means that I had to take a special course through the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) to be able to earn this designation.

The main reason for getting my SRES was because of my personal experience helping my eighty-four-year-old mom sell her home of 58 years. I realized through the process that she really needed a real estate agent who could explain things in detail, who took time for her questions, who had patience, who would let her sign on paper instead of the computer if needed, and who would be there with her every step of the way and go the extra mile. Of course, not everyone who is fifty or older needs all of the things my mom did, but the older we get the more likely we will need more of the additional services a SRES can provide.

At TK Homes, most of the things mentioned above (minus signing on paper, which we do as-needed), we provide on a regular basis. We pride ourselves in providing a five-star experience. That said, you may be wondering what a SRES does beyond what I already mentioned. What sets us apart? An SRES understands and has studied generational differences and life stages in order to better serve the 50+ population. We know where there can be potential pitfalls along the way, including the potential physical and emotional ramifications of moving to a new place and selling a home. We also understand that adult children and family members will want to help along the way and that there could be family conflict as well. As in any transaction, we respect the fact that it is the owner’s property. We have also been trained to be on the lookout for warning signs regarding the sale of a home, if someone potentially may not have the senior’s best interest in mind. We can discuss the general next steps, meaning what type of place the senior may want to move to based on their needs, for example, senior apartments, a 55+ community, or a co-housing situation, to name a few. Most importantly, we can help with the resources needed to gets seniors where they are going. We have names of good contractors, some who work specifically with the 50+ population. We have organizers to help with sorting and repurposing items, probate attorneys, and much more. I am currently in the process of working to build this network even more with reputable vendors.

At TK Homes, we always work hard to give our clients the best experience possible, no matter the age or circumstance, and now we can provide better service to the 50+ population. We have the extra tools we need to give outstanding service and cater to the specific needs that those in the 50+ category have. If you are a senior or know of a senior that is thinking of making a change with their home, give us a call at TK Homes today. We have the tools, training, and experience to make the move as effortless as possible. We will discuss next steps and the best way to help you or the senior you know achieve their real estate goals!

~ Written by TK Homes REALTOR® Mary Smith