By Leon Merian, SRES
Realtor, Compass
As I am a Realtor, you might expect me to begin with a pitch to sell your home. But in many cases, I intentionally leave my Realtor hat at the door. That might sound surprising, but when it comes to working with older adults and their families, there’s something much more important that comes first: making sure you – or your loved one – are fully supported, safe, and prepared for whatever comes next.
Over the years, I’ve learned that real estate is just one part of a much larger transition. Whether someone is thinking of downsizing, moving into assisted living, or simply preparing for the future “just in case,” there are often several other steps to take before a home even hits the market. This is where the idea of a “senior support circle” comes in – a team of trusted professionals who help you make the right decisions in the right order, with care and compassion.
The Realtor who doesn’t rush
People are sometimes taken aback when I say, “You might not be ready to sell – and that’s perfectly OK.” My job, first and foremost, is to help you figure out the big picture.
Is it safe and affordable to stay in your home? Do you need home modifications? Are you overwhelmed by the idea of clearing out decades of belongings? Have you spoken to your family, your attorney, or your doctor?
The real estate part will come when the time is right. But until then, I’m committed to connecting you with the right people who can help you lay the foundation for a smooth and thoughtful transition.
Who belongs in your senior support circle?
- Geriatric care manager
A geriatric care manager is like a project manager for your aging journey. They assess your needs, help create a care plan, and coordinate services, from medical appointments to in-home help. They’re especially helpful for adult children who may not live nearby or who are navigating this for the first time. - Elder law attorney
Having the right legal documents in place is essential before any major decisions are made. An elder law attorney helps with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and more, ensuring that your assets are protected and your wishes are clearly stated. - Financial advisor or CPA
Whether it’s planning for long-term care or understanding the tax implications of selling a home, a financial expert can help you see the full financial picture. They’ll help you avoid costly mistakes and make sure the numbers support your goals. - Aging-in-place specialist or contractor
Many people I meet aren’t looking to move; they just want to feel safer and more comfortable at home. Contractors who specialize in aging-in-place design can install grab bars, widen doorways, or reconfigure bathrooms to meet your current or future needs. - Senior move manager or organizer
The thought of going through a lifetime of belongings can stop people in their tracks. A senior move manager helps with sorting, packing, donating, and even coordinating the move if and when the time comes. - Real estate professional (That’s me – but not just yet.)
When everything else is in place, I step in to handle the sale of the home with dignity and sensitivity. My role is to guide you through the process, minimize stress, and make sure your goals – and your timeline – are honored every step of the way.
Why this approach matters
Selling a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions many older adults will ever face. It’s not just about square footage or market trends. It’s about memories, independence, legacy, and security.
That’s why I believe it’s so important to take a holistic approach. When you surround yourself with the right team, you don’t just make good real estate decisions, you make good life decisions.
I’ve seen first-hand how this support circle can reduce stress, prevent costly missteps, and even bring families closer together. I’ve also seen what happens when people try to tackle this process alone: rushed decisions, missed opportunities, and unnecessary heartache.
Starting the conversation
If you or a loved one are starting to think about the future, now is a great time to start building your senior support circle. You don’t have to wait for a crisis or a last-minute decision. The earlier you start the conversation, the more choices and control you have.
If you’re not sure where to begin, I’m happy to help – not as a Realtor with a listing agreement, but as someone who cares about your next chapter. Let’s talk over coffee. No pressure, no timeline, just an honest conversation about what you need, what you want, and how to take the next right step.
Because when the time is right to sell, I’ll be ready – and so will you.
