Some people are beginning to feel a little overwhelmed by all the snow.  After all, it has become a challenge trying to decide what to do with all the stuff. Still, there are precautions everyone can take to make the winter season a little easier.  Here are a few. Remove roof snow.  Snow piled on the [...]

Now that we have briefly examined some spring cleaning tips, let’s look at a common but potentially dangerous problem that can affect homes, schools, apartment buildings, and the like: mold.  Mold is ubiquitous, so it is extremely unlikely to avoid all contact with these pesky fungi.  Various mold types live indoors and out and can enter [...]

Home staging is the process of aesthetically preparing a home to be sold. More often than not, some work is needed before a house is market ready.  Maybe the shrubs are in need of cutting, or the kitchen is outdated.  Maybe the caulking around the bathroom tub is cracked, or the dining room wallpaper is [...]

Real estate prices continue to weaken. Unfortunately, as of this writing, there is no end in sight.  People are losing their jobs, foreclosures are high, and loans are not as generously available as before.  In short: many people feel uncertain about the future.  In such tough economic times, should you sell your home? Of course, every home-owner [...]

Continuing Care Retirement Communities are increasing in popularity, and there are several options available to meet the needs of varying lifestyles.  Medical exams and insurance requirements might be necessary in determining eligibility in a CCRC.  The primary feature which distinguishes CCRCs is the requirement of a contractual agreement. This agreement allows residents to stay within [...]

Board and Care homes are another option in elderly housing.  In some instances, they may be placed under the umbrella of Assisted Living or Congregate Housing.  Still, there are nuances in each category which make it unique, so let’s examine the guidelines in this particular area. Board and Care homes cater to seniors or individuals [...]

Assisted living is a popular alternative in senior housing.  This option is appropriate for individuals who wish to live independently but may require some help with everyday living; seniors who need 24-hour medical care are usually not suitable for this type of residence. Assisted living often offer features similar to those in an independent retirement community.  [...]

Accessory Dwelling Units (also known as accessory apartments, granny flats, secondary units) are separate living accommodations that are either attached to (apartment), or on the grounds of (separate building), a primary residence.  If attached, the apartment might encompass a portion of the original home, or an addition may be added to the primary residence.  ADUs [...]

Today we will briefly examine another option in elderly housing: congregate housing.  Residents in congregate facilities tend to be self-sufficient but may need access to some services.  Individuals requiring substantial medical assistance are typically not suitable for this type of dwelling. Congregate housing can vary widely in apartment size, location, and amenities.  Some facilities are obtainable [...]

Last week we touched upon a few options in elderly housing for the ambulatory senior.  This week will examine the “Senior Apartment” a little more closely. Seniors who relocate to elderly apartments come from a broad spectrum of backgrounds.  Some had been apartment dwellers in their younger years.  Some made the decision they now want [...]