Showing posts with label realtor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label realtor. Show all posts

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Smartphone, iPad, and Tablet Tips and Advice for Orlando Seniors

by Michele Moon

Regardless of where you live - be it an assisted living community, your own house in Oviedo, a Winter Park apartment, or with adult children in Orlando - technology has a way of making the world smaller, helping you to communicate with friends and family, and even manage your schedule and life.

It can be especially helpful in the effort to help older seniors age-in-place (remain living in their own homes independently) as innovations like smartphones and tablets make it far easier for older adults to embrace technology and remain in touch with family caregivers. The many applications (apps) available for both phones and tablets can really be a boost for adult children/family caregivers - even for those who are trying to help Mom or Dad on a long-distance basis.

I thought I'd post a couple of videos and other resources that help explain some of the ways in which smartphones, tablets, and apps can play a role in serving seniors and caregiver families in Orlando and all of Central Florida.


















I've also come across a website for seniors run by a 74-year-old woman named Sheila Finkelstein. Check it out to get free answers to technology questions.


Considering selling a house in Orlando, Oviedo, Winter Park, Winter Springs, Casselberry, or anywhere across Central Florida? 



Monday, July 7, 2014

Sharing Info on Senior Housing at the National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando

by Michele Moon

It goes without saying that Orlando-area seniors who suffer from vision loss face an extra difficulty when it comes time to leave a family home and move to a retirement community, mother-in-law cottage, or smaller apartment.

That's a big reason that my colleague Lisa D'Aloise and I were thrilled last week to both speak and share our knowledge on simplifying senior moves at the annual National Federation of the Blind convention in Orlando.



Lisa sat and shared her information on the panel entitled "Empowerment: Options for Senior Living" with Jennifer Cochran of Visiting Angels, Rachel Alvarez of the Alvarez Law Firm, and Patty Antony of Elder Advocates to discuss whether seniors should "Age in Place" and find assistive care as needed, or move into senior housing in Oviedo, Winter Springs, Winter Park, or anywhere in Central Florida.



Later, I addressed a meeting of leaders of the National Federation of the Blind and provided an overview of the challenges faced by seniors during a late in life move and educated them on the process, allowing those leaders to better share the information with their membership and local chapters of the NFB.


I'd like to offer a special thanks to Ruth Sager, President of the Seniors division of the National Federation of the Blind for being so nice as to invite Lisa and I to speak at the convention.

She shared a gift bag with each of us and presented me with a Braille bracelet with the word "Joy" written on it in braille - a very sweet nod to the fact that I always sign off my emails with the word "joyfully."

Michelle Moon (L) Ruth Sager (R)


Lisa and I are blessed to meet so many great people and to be able to offer what we've learned to seniors and their caregiver families who need assistance with downsizing or a late-in-life move to a new home, be it senior housing in Oviedo, an Orlando retirement community, or the home of a family member.

If we - the Estate Conversions Team and Orlando Senior Housing - may offer you any advice, please contact us anytime for a chat.



LOOKING FOR SPACE? Hurry in to see this spacious two-story home on a quiet CUL DE SAC! A stunning foyer, with curved staircase welcomes you home! This flexible floor plan features a formal living room, which could be a great office or play room, a large formal dining room with crown molding and a kitchen overlooking the family room. The kitchen has GRANITE counter tops, STAINLESS STEEL appliances, and CENTER ISLAND. The sliding glass doors open onto a long, screened porch overlooking a huge pie shaped back yard. Upstairs is a BONUS ROOM, which could easily be made the fourth bedroom. The master can accommodate king sized furniture and features two closets, a garden tub and a granite counter top. The exterior was just painted and the A/C was replaced in 2008. Residents of Andover Lakes enjoy close proximity to expressways, UCF, downtown Orlando and Waterford Lakes Towne Center shopping and dining.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Press Release: Michele Moon and Lisa D'Aloise to Speak at National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando

For Immediate Release:
June 20, 2014

Orlando Senior Housing Experts to Speak at National Federation of the Blind Convention


Orlando, FL: Central Florida senior housing experts Lisa D'Aloise and Michele Moon of Orlando Senior Housing and the Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty will be among the panelists and speakers at the National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando July 1 to July 6, 2014.

D'Aloise will be among the experts on the panel entitled "Empowerment: Options for Senior Living". That discussion will take place between 1-4 pm on Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at Salon 20 on Level 2 of the Rosen Centre Hotel and Orange County Convention Center. Conversation will focus on whether seniors should "Age in Place" and find assistive care as needed, or move into senior housing. Other panelists include Jennifer Cochran of Visiting Angels, Rachel Alvarez of the Alvarez Law Firm, and Patty Antony of Elder Advocates. Attendees will discover what to learn before moving and what questions to ask.

Meanwhile, Moon has been invited to speak to leaders of the National Federationof the Blind at 2:30 on Thursday, July 3 during the session "Knowledge is Empowerment: Seniors Division." She will provide an overview of the challenges faced by seniors during a late in life move and educate them on the process, allowing those leaders to better share the information with their membership and local chapters of the NFB. Her address will also take place in Salon 20 on Level 2 of the hotel and convention center.

"Lisa and I are honored that the National Federation of the Blind has asked us to help educate so many people during such a large, national convention," said Moon. "It's a natural part of our philosophy of being of the utmost service to - and working as advocates for - seniors who need to transition to a new phase of housing. Obviously, seniors who also suffer from vision loss face an even more distinct challenge, so we're excited to do what we can to help them prepare for the process."

D'Aloise and Moon specialize in real estate services for adults 55+ in the Orlando area. Michele is a Senior Real Estate Specialist of the National Association of Realtors and both she and Lisa are Certified Senior Housing Professionals of the Seniors Real Estate Institute. Michele also serves as a trainer with the Institute, traveling the country and educating other Realtors in how best to super-serve their senior clientele. They also publish the local, senior resource OrlandoSeniorHousing.com

Press Inquiries:

Michele Moon
Orlando Senior Housing
(321) 689-8339



Thursday, June 12, 2014

Angels' Story: How We Help Seniors and Their Families Arrange a Move and Sell a House

by Michele Moon

Angela called us the other day. She was worried about her 77-year-old mother, Lois, who resides in Oviedo and had been showing signs of quickly slowing down and perhaps being unable to remain living on her own in the two-bedroom ranch she's owned for the past two decades.

Lois had been spry and energetic until a couple of years ago when Angela – who lives far away in Maryland – had visited Mom for the holidays and noticed signs that she wasn't eating properly and was unable to maintain basic, household chores like cleaning, laundry and the usual, mundane tasks.


Concerned, Angela had arranged for visits and help from an Orlando home health care company and that seemed to help. But recently the company alerted Angela that her mother seemed to be deteriorating and suggested that she begin investigating other options: specifically moving her mother to an Orlando assisted living facility.

She quickly jumped to the phone and Internet, began researching and calling Central Florida retirement communities and immediately came face-to-face with what was quickly growing to an overwhelming task.

How could she – hundreds of miles away in Baltimore – properly handle everything that needed arranged and investigated before transitioning her mom to an assisted living community? On top of the geographic constraints, she groaned at the things that needed accomplished.


To help with financing the care at the senior community, Lois' house needed to be sold. And there were a wide variety of other financial issues that also needed addressed. Angela discovered she needed to work with her mom's financial adviser, hire an elder law attorney, handle Social Security and pension issues, hire a good real estate agent, manage an estate auction, hire a trash hauling company, arrange for storage, work with a handyman to fix the house in preparation for a sale, and countless other issues.


Then there were all the emotional and family problems: How could she convince her mother to make the move, especially when Lois broke down, cried, and adamantly refused. Angela's brother – who lives in Texas – was also against the idea and he and Angela had exchanged heated words about the entire problem. She needed help in explaining the entire, broad picture to her family. But where could she start?

That's when Angela called us. She came across our information online and chose to reach out to my partner – Lisa D'Aloise – and I at the Estate Conversions Team of KellerWilliams Realty.

She noted that not only were we experienced Orlando and Oviedo real estate agents, but we were Certified Senior Housing Professionals and highly-trained and experienced in working with seniors and their adult children when the time came to sell the house of an older adult.

Beginning preparations to sell the house was Angela's first priority, but she wanted to know what kind of help we could offer with all of the problems mentioned above.

Our answer? All of it.

That's what we do. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals of The Seniors Real Estate Institute, selling homes for seniors is our specialty. But we go far beyond that. Our training and experience has shown us how to help caregiver families work their way through a process that can be so overwhelming during a late-in-life move for their Mom, Dad, or other loved one.

That includes sharing ways to bring the family to consensus, what to look for when choosing an Orlando retirement community, checklists for the entire move process, help and recommendations in what assisted living communities may be right for you, guidance in finding the right professionals (like attorneys, guardians, probate specialists) and other necessary vendors like estate auctions, movers, and plenty more.


Most importantly, we are trained to do far more than just refer you to these other providers. Instead, we serve as the hub of your entire move, managing everyone involved from start to finish.

Our primary goal is to be your advocate and partner and help a senior through this late-in-life move with dignity and the least amount of hassle possible.


For information and a chat concerning your unique situation, contact us for more information.



Thursday, June 5, 2014

Orlando Senior Community Review: The Bridge at Orlando

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals who specialize in helping seniors sell a family home and "downsize" to a more manageable living environment, we regularly tour and inspect senior communities in Central Florida. It's all part of our job to ensure that we - The Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty - can provide the best recommendations and senior housing options for a late-in-life transition.  


The Bridge at Orlando is an assisted living and independent living community that features five apartment floor plans to choose from. Situated amid a park-like campus complete with gazebo and picnic areas, their retirement services include:

Monthly lease with no buy-in
Variety of apartments
Restaurant-style fine dining
Scheduled transportation
Fitness center
Housekeeping services

The activity schedule features trips, socials, hobby groups, educational seminars and live entertainment, while the restaurant-quality dining may be enjoyed in the community dining room or, if you wish a larger gathering for guests, in the private dining room.


Of course, everyone loves saying goodbye to vacuuming, cleaning, dusting, preparing meals, and washing linenes. These household and apartment maintenance chores are taken care of by the staff at the Bridge at Orlando.

Health and Wellness plans are customized for each resident, and fitness classes ranging from yoga to walking groups are provided for individuals and focused on each residents' experience and fitness level, in addition to their level of independence.


In addition to the exercise room, other popular areas on the grounds include:

Cozy lounge with fireplace
Comfortable lounge areas
Hair salon
Craft room
Ice cream parlor
Billiards room
Library
Laundry facility

If you are a senior or the family caregiver of an older adult and need advice or information on selling a long-held family home and potentially moving to an Orlando-area retirement community, please feel free to contact us. We - Lisa D'Aloise and Michele Moon - are specifically trained and experienced in helping seniors and their families navigate the complexities of a late-in-live move.


There is plenty to love in this fabulous 4 bed, 3 bath, office, plus BONUS room home! This is an Engle Monterey floor plan with an added large, downstairs bonus room, extended master bedroom and screened porch with extended patio. The chef's kitchen features a built in double oven, center island, desk space, travertine flooring and overlooks the family room. The home also features bamboo wood flooring, large formal areas, plantation shutters and a side entry, three car garage.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Orlando Senior Living Review: Atria at Lake Forest

by Michele Moon

A coupe of weeks ago my partner Lisa D'Aloise and I had the opportunity to spend some time at and get to know the residents and staff at Atria at Lake Forest in Sanford, Florida, a beautiful assisted living facility in Central Florida near Orlando.

We were on hand to take part in a benefit event for the Alzheimer's and Dementia Resource Center and also walked about and surveyed the surroundings and how residents and staff spent their time together.



With more than 200 monthly events, residents have many opportunities to stay active, both on the eight-acre campus that's surrounded by oak trees, and by taking part in off-campus activities and trips throughout the local area.


The many apartments at Atria at Lake Forest come in a variety of floor plans and include studio, one, or two-bedroom designs and meet the needs of most all seniors - whether they are engaged in an active, retirement lifestyle with an independent living flair or need more support in the form of assisted living options.

What's especially ideal in the assisted living environment is that such care is provided very discreetly, enabling the senior to maintain a sense of dignity and independence.


This Orlando senior housing community also offers more hands-on, memory care assistance in a neighborhood established specifically for Alzheimer's and dementia care residents.

The amenities provided by Atria at Lake Forest are, of course, numerous and designed to engage the interest level of a wide variety of residents. The walking paths across the community are nicely designed, and residents can enjoy everything from a fitness and wellness center to a computer center, or opt to enjoy video games, community gardens, a library, theater, cocktail hour, and other social activities like taking part in the well-known "Red Hat Society."



Other benefits of life at Atria at Lake Forest include:

A full-time events director
All utilities provided, except phone
An emergency call system in every apartment
Assistance with activities of daily living
Concierge
Delicious meals served restaurant-style daily
Emergency call pendants/wristbands
Housekeeping and linen services
Individually controlled heating and air
Laundry services
Medication assistance
On-site physical therapy provider
Scheduled local transportation



As Certified Senior Housing Professionals (Orlando and Oviedo real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors throughout a move process) Lisa D'Aloise and I - Michele Moon - of the Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty are well-prepared and ready to help a senior or their family caregivers navigate the complexities of a late-in-life move or the sale of a long-held family home.

Whether you are residents of the Orlando area already or contemplating a move to Central Florida, we hope you'll contact us and allow us to share some of the many things we've learned in how to make a late-in-life move much easier and hassle-free.



HURRY IN TO SEE THIS GREAT HOUSE IN POPULAR ALAFAYA WOODS! The floor plan features a formal dining rm, eat in kitchen, and a large living rm with cathedral ceilings. The back yard is fully fenced and the home has a new A/C 2014 and newer roof. The home is located close to the neighborhood park which has a full basketball court, tennis court and a large playground.




Sunday, May 11, 2014

Wine Pull & Cocktail Party to Benefit the Central Florida Alzheimer's and Dementia Resource Center

by Lisa D'Aloise

A great time and great wine for a great cause. We at the Estate Conversions Team invite you to join us in the mingle at the Atria at Lake Forest in Sanford to benefit the Alzheimer's and Dementia Resource Center.

If Alzheimer's has touched someone you care about or simply if you'd love to enjoy some vino for a fantastic cause, come join us!

This Wednesday, May 14 







5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms: Come see this custom built home with all the "I Wants" in this exclusive Arrowhead neighborhood in Tuscawilla. The main living areas offer lovely views of the golf course from its vantage point on the 9th tee of the Tuscawilla golf course. This energy efficient home offers foam insulation in the blocks, and a 14 seer a/c system.



Monday, March 24, 2014

Baby Boomer and Senior Citizen Discounts (55+) in Orlando, Florida

by Michele Moon

From haircuts, to restaurants, to retail stores, to travel and groceries, baby boomers and seniors in the Orlando area and across central Florida can take advantage of a wide variety of discounts available to those 55+.

Of course, eligible ages vary from store to store, and while some request that you be 60+ or more, many are happy to share some love with the 55+ set.


But remember, you always have to ask for the discount, so don't be shy! In fact, it may be a good policy for Orlando seniors, boomers, or caregiver families to ask about discounts anywhere and everywhere you spend money.

Below is a list of NATIONAL businesses that share discounts for seniors. These may have changed over time or - in some instances - no longer be valid, but I hope it'll serve as a starting place to help you save some dollars here and there.



While these are national chains and businesses, I'd love to compile a list of independent, local, mom and pop businesses in the Orlando area that provide similar savings.

If your business does, or if you are aware of such a business with senior discounts in Central Florida, please email me the information here. And thank you!


RESTAURANTS:

Applebee’s: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
Arby’s: 10% off (55+)
Ben & Jerry’s: 10% off (60+)
Bennigan’s: discount varies by location (60+)
Bob’s Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
Burger King: 10% off (60+)
Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
Chili’s: 10% off (55+)
CiCi’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Denny’s: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+)
Dunkin’ Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
Einstein’s Bagels: 10% off baker’s dozen of bagels (60+)
Fuddrucker’s: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
Gatti’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
Hardee’s: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
IHOP: 10% off (55+)
Jack in the Box: up to 20% off (55+)
KFC: free small drink with any meal (55+)
Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+)
Long John Silver’s: various discounts at locations (55+)
McDonald’s: discounts on coffee everyday (55+)
Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
Shoney’s: 10% off Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
Steak ‘n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
Subway: 10% off (60+)
Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)
Taco Bell: 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
TCBY: 10% off (55+)
Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
Wendy’s: 10% off (55+)
White Castle: 10% off (62+)


RETAIL & APPAREL:

Banana Republic: 10% off (50+)
Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month (50+)
Belk’s: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
Big Lots: 10% off
Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days (55+)
C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
Clarks: 10% off (62+)
Dress Barn: 10% off (55+)
Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kmart: 20% off (50+)
Kohl’s: 15% off (60+)
Modell’s Sporting Goods: 10% off
Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month (55+)

By Maurice07 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons


GROCERY:

Albertson’s: 10% off first Wednesday of each month (55+)
American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday (50+)
Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
Food Lion: 6% off every Monday (60+)
Fry’s Supermarket: free Fry’s VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday (55+)
Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday (50+)
Publix: 5% off every Wednesday (55+)
Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
Uncle Guiseppe’s Marketplace: 5% off (62+)

TRAVEL:

Alaska Airlines: 10% off (65+)
American Airlines: various discounts for 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations
Southwest Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Amtrak: 15% off (62+)
Greyhound: 5% off (62+)
Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50+
Car Rental:Alamo Car Rental: up to 25% off for AARP members
Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members Best Western: 10% off (55+)
Budget Rental Cars: 10% off; up to 20% off for AARP members (50+)
Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off (50+)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members
Hertz: up to 25% off for AARP members
National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Clarion Motels: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Econo Lodge: 20%-30% off (60+)
Hampton Inns & Suites: 10% off when booked 72 hours in advance
Holiday Inn: 10%-30% off depending on location (62+)
Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)
Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler’s Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
Marriott Hotels: 15% off (62+)
Motel 6: 10% off (60+)
Myrtle Beach Resort: 10% off (55+)
Quality Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Sleep Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)



ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT:

AMC Theaters: up to 30% off (55+)
Bally Total Fitness: up to $100 off memberships (62+)
Busch Gardens Tampa, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)
Regal Cinemas: 30% off Ripley’s Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket (55+)
SeaWorld Orlando, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)

CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS:

AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $29.99/month (65+)
Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service (50+)
Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+)

MISCELLANEOUS:

Great Clips: $3 off hair cuts (60+)
Super Cuts: $2 off haircuts (60+)




Hurry in to see this immaculate home in desirable Twin Rivers. This home has been lovingly maintained by the original owner. Downstairs you'll find a large family room that opens onto the screened pool and a nice kitchen with silestone counter tops, walk-in pantry and eating area. The formal dining room and living room are also nice sized and the master is located downstairs as well. The upstairs features a loft area that is perfect for a desk, three good size bedrooms and a full bath. Recent updates include the exterior painted in 2012, pool screen in 2013, both A/C units in 2009 and some interior painted in 2014. The property is beautiful and is just over a quarter acre. 

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Interview: What is a Professional Guardian?

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals in Orlando, the Estate Conversions Team - Lisa D'Aloise and I - have been trained and educated to provide a new level of expertise, service, and compassion to our senior and boomer clients.

That includes building a resource team of other professionals who provide specific services to seniors and family caregivers - businesses and people that we have vetted and feel confident in referring our clients to. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals, it's our job to help you with real estate transactions, including the sale or purchase of a home, and also know the right people to refer you to when a need outside of our scope of business appears.


One of those needs that may develop when one embarks on a late-in-life move is that of a Professional Guardian. Here's an overview of what a professional guardian in Orlando, Orange County, and all across Central Florida does.

H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian.



Michelle: Lennie, I have worked with several Professional Guardians, so I have some idea of what you do, but I’m not sure I understand the whole story. Why is guardianship necessary in the first place?

Lennie: Sometimes an individual won’t be able to make decisions for him or herself. This could be as a result of Alzheimer’s or other dementia, a stroke, injury or some other mental deficiency. In that tragic circumstance, someone else will have to make important decisions for them. So, the Circuit Court can be asked to appoint a guardian to take over that responsibility so that their health is protected and their property is not wasted or stolen.

Michelle: Shouldn’t this be the role of a family member?

Lennie: Generally, yes. The law specifies a preference for a family member to act in this critical role. Sometimes there is no family member available, willing or qualified. In that case the Court might have to seek the assistance of a Professional Guardian.

Michelle: So, you’re only appointed when there is no family member to be appointed?

Lennie: There are other situations. One is a dispute within a family. In that case, a judge may appoint a Professional Guardian because they are neutral. I’ve been appointed in this situation several times.


Michelle: So, let’s say you are appointed. What kinds of decisions are you empowered to make?

Lennie: The powers can be divided into two categories – guardian of the person and guardian of the property. Guardian of the person might include medical decision making, determining social environment and residential placement. Guardian of the property might include managing funds, receiving benefits, protecting personal and real property and paying bills.

Michelle: You said “might”. Can you explain that word choice?

Lennie: When the judge determines that an individual is incapacitated, the judge will remove certain rights from that person based on that individual’s capacity. The judge will also determine specifically which rights and duties will be assigned to the guardian.

Michelle: Are Professional Guardians licensed?

Lennie: No, not exactly. We are technically not “licensed”. We are required to be registered with the Department of Elder Affairs. In order to be registered, we have to complete a training course, pass a competency exam, obtain a bond, and pass both criminal background and credit checks. We also have to obtain regular continuing education and renew our registration every year. So, it’s very similar to licensing.

Reach H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian at 321-251-8133

Michelle: Is there any review of the actions of a Professional Guardian and are there any professional standards?

Lennie: The guardian serves at the discretion of the Court and all actions are subject to Court review. A guardian of the person must submit an annual plan to the Court. That plan documents care during the previous year and forecasts what care will be provided during the coming year. A guardian of the property must submit an annual accounting of all assets and transactions for audit by the Court.

The State of Florida does not impose an ethical standard or standards of practice on guardians. Some Professional Guardians enjoy national certification (by the Center for Guardianship Certification) which obligates them to follow an ethical standard subject to discipline. Both the National Guardianship Association and the Florida State Guardianship Association have published standards of practice which are advisory.

Michelle: Do you have any final comments?

Lennie: Guardianship is not something anybody wants. It should be regarded as a last resort. It can be expensive and intrusive. I liken it to a heart bypass operation. Nobody looks forward to having their heart cut open. Sometimes it is necessary for the patient. Guardianship is similar in that it may be the necessary step to protect someone from danger. Lastly, guardianship doesn’t have to be forever. We are required to review on an annual basis whether rights could be restored and the person under guardianship always has the power to petition for restoration of their rights.

Michelle: You mentioned a moment ago disputes within families and we have talked about that before. Can we talk in the future about your efforts to help families in conflict?

Lennie: Absolutely. I look forward to that.

Indeed, Lennie also provides mediation, a service that - in some cases - may allow guardianship to be avoided.






Thursday, February 13, 2014

Video Review: Premier Senior Consultants: Helping Orlando Seniors Find the Right Retirement Communities

by Michele Moon

As Orlando real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors downsize, sell a house, and prepare to move into more manageable housing, we at Estate Conversions regularly come across other people who are providing some unique and first-class services for Orlando seniors or their caregiver families.


I recently had the pleasure of spending time with Holly Jennings who - along with her business partner Carrie Vick - are the driving force behind Premier Senior Consultants, an Orlando company that provides a free service that many people probably don't even know is available to them.

If you're an older adult or the family caregiver of a senior citizen and need to learn more about the process of moving into a Central Florida independent living or assisted living community (often commonly referred to as retirement communities) Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants can be of extraordinary assistance.

And, as mentioned above, their service is free to you: the senior or family member. Holly and Carrie both hold extensive experience as administrators and executives within the senior housing industry. Now, they've started their own business to utilize that knowledge and provide a concierge/consultant service to seniors or their families.

Watch My Video Interview with Holly



Visit the Premier Senior Consultants Website

Here's how Holly and Carrie explain their assistance:

The Premier Process begins with a personal interview to gather information with family member(s) and the future resident. This is to ensure each potential community meets the expectations and requirements we have identified.

Next, we will tour each Senior Living Community by your side, supporting the process from start to finish. Our goal is to ensure each future resident will be welcomed, cared for and safe in their new home.

Our service is at NO COST to you and the fee is paid by the community after the resident has successfully transitioned to their new home.

Many thanks to Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants for being a part of the effort to make finding the right senior housing in Orlando an easier and more intuitive process for all involved!

Our Featured Orlando House for Sale


Come see...Come sigh! Hurry in to see this lovely home in highly desirable Waterford Lakes! Inside you'll find soaring ceilings, spacious formal living room and dining room and a large family room. The master bedroom is located on the first floor and has a jetted tub, large walk in closet and access to the pool/patio. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms, two with walk in closets and a loft. The pool has solar panels, pop up cleaners, a gas heated spa and an indoor control system. The exterior was just painted in November and the A/C was replaced in '04. Residents of Waterford Lakes enjoy a community pool, playground, tennis, walking paths and top rated schools. The location is ideal with close proximity to the 408 expressway, Waterford Lakes Towne Center, shopping and restaurants.



Sunday, January 26, 2014

Resources for Seniors and Family Caregivers in Orlando

by Michele Moon
The Estate Conversions Team

Family caregivers in Orlando - those who take care of an older adult - do exceptional work! As Certified Senior Housing Professionals - Realtors who help family caregivers and seniors in the sale of a family home and move to a new phase of life - we at Estate Conversions regularly come across people who are at the forefront of this demanding time in life.


It's part of our job to know as much as possible about opportunities that can make life a bit better and easier for both those caregivers and their loved ones. I wanted to use this blog post to provide information on some of the community resources available to family caregivers across central Florida.



If you're the family caregiver of a veteran in Orlando, from Oviedo to Lake Mary to Live Oak to Winter Springs to Altamonte, the Veterans Administration provides a wide variety of resources to help not only the veteran, but also YOU - the family caregiver of a veteran. These include respite programs, the free, online workshop "Building Better Caregivers," and plenty of other assistance.


The Orlando VA Family Caregiver Support Coordinators are:

Elinor Splitter, MA, MSW, LCSW: 321-397-6465
James Conte, MSW : 407-646-4055
Jane Hoke Otto, RN: 407-271-2311
Richard Kennedy, RN: 407-646-4100



A fantastic local resource for Orlando family caregivers of those with these illnesses.





Based on income with sliding scale fees


Central Florida's Area Agency on Aging serving seniors, caregivers and aging services providers in Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties.



As Certified Senior Housing Professionals, we at the Estate Conversions Team - Lisa D'Aloise and Michele Moon - consider it an honor to help boomers, seniors, and family caregivers with any and all questions they may have about the caregiving or downsizing/moving process. Reach us anytime here or fill out the contact form on the right sidebar.








Friday, January 17, 2014

Orlando Counsel for Caregivers Spring 2014 Seminar Series

by Michele Moon
The Estate Conversions Team

The Orange County/Orlando Counsel for Caregivers is an extraordinary community resource for the family caregivers of senior citizens across Central Florida. To be honest, there are very few communities fortunate enough to have a group dedicated specifically to caregivers. It's one of the many things that make our area a fantastic place to live.


One of the highlights of the Orlando Counsel for Caregivers is the Spring 2014 Seminar Series, a magnificent collection of educational events held at three libraries across the area.

I'm happy to note that I - Michele Moon - will be representing the Estate Conversions Team on April 17, 2014 and May 14, 2014 as I provide an educational seminar on the topic of "Choosing the Right Home for Life's Next Chapter." 


I'd love to see you join me at The Orlando Public Library on April 17th and the South Creek Library on May 14.




At the rate of three seminars each month, the counsel offers a marvelous opportunity for those who take care of older loved ones - be they spouses, parents, or grandparents - to learn how to better handle, navigate, and thrive in the stressful (yet blessed) role of being a family caregiver.

RSVP by Email or call 407-836-7446

Other upcoming topics in February, March, April, May, and June of 2014 include:

Understanding the Many Decisions of End-of-Life Planning
Health Issues No One Wants to Talk About 
Creating Purpose & FUN – and Preventing Depression 
Strengthening Your Bones 
A Physical Therapist’s Tips & Tricks to Staying Healthy 
Women’s Issues and Aging 
Elder Law 101 
Helpful Community Services for Seniors and Family Caregivers 
Solutions for the Aging Spine
Choosing the Right Home for Life's Next Chapter



Thursday, January 9, 2014

2014 Orlando Family Caregiver Conference

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals - real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors downsize, sell their home, and move to a new phase in their lives - we at Estate Conversions Team of Orlando realize the pressures and amazing work that family caregivers offer those they love.


Whether you care for a senior spouse, parent, or other loved one, it's our goal with this blog to ensure that family caregivers, boomers, and seniors of all ages are aware of and have access to the many resources in Central Florida available to enhance their lives.

One of those resources is the Fearless Caregiver Conference which makes it's way to Orlando this month on January 30, 2014.



It will run from 8:30am - 2:30pm at the Holy Trinity Reception & Conference Center, 1217 Trinity Woods Lane, Maitland, FL 32751.


You'll get advice on how to balance family, work, and caregiving while learning to win support from family members. It's also an opportunity to pick the brains of a wide variety of experts and get your caregiving questions answered, while figuring out the particulars of how to obtain financial and community resources for caregivers in Orlando, Oviedo, Orange County and throughout the area.


In addition to exhibitors with a wealth of information, a round-table question and answer session will cover topics such as respites options, financial and legal issues, getting a parent to stop driving, Alzheimer’s care, grandparent caregiving, depression, stress management, and adult day services.

If you need advice on real estate services for seniors and their caregiver families, including everything you need to know about making a late-in-life move, please feel free to contact Lisa or Michele of the Estate Conversions Team of Orlando.



Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Orlando Senior Real Estate Specialists and Certified Senior Housing Professionals

Here's a question for you: Are you aware of the fact that there are a select group of real estate agents who are specifically trained and educated in how to eloquently serve seniors and older adults 55+?

Do you think there's any difference between a regular real estate agent and one who specializes in working with senior citizens or their caregiver families?


The short answer is that yes, there is. And we at The Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty in Orlando are part of a national movement to help seniors drive through the wide variety of emotional, financial, and family issues that younger home sellers simply do not face.

We both - Michele Moon & Lisa D'Aloise - are Certified Senior Housing Professionals (CSHP) of The Seniors Real Estate Institute, a global organization that exists to educate and equip senior housing and real estate professionals across the world to effectively navigate the complexities of late in life moves for senior adult clients.

Our Approach is to Serve as a Friend, Adviser, and Business Partner

It's about being more than a "normal" realtor. Our focus is on serving as a trusted adviser that helps seniors or their caregiver children understand their options when considering the sale of a family home and move to another.

We zero in on being caring advocates, skilled real estate agents, and master collaborators, in addition to brilliant guides and consultants!

We've also put together an extensive network of other professionals who serve seniors in the move process, making it easier for us to refer you to others like accountants, tax professionals, moving services, home health providers, and adult living communities. Best of all, we serve as the HUB for all of these professionals and work to make sure that all of them are meeting your needs and obligations to you.

Please feel free to contact us here at anytime for a no-obligation chat and details on how we may be of service with your home sale and move.