55+ Lifestyles
55+ Lifestyle communities are 55+ age restricted communities that offer resort style amenities and social activities. These may be ownership, rental or land lease communities.

Independent Living
Independent Living Communities are designed to enable independent seniors to enjoy a lifestyle filled with recreational, educational and social activities amongst other seniors.

Assisted Living
Assisted Living provides a special combination of residential housing, personalized supportive services and care.

Nursing Care
Nursing Care, or Skilled Nursing Facilities, are designed for seniors who are in need of 24-hour nursing care.

Continuing Care
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) are residential campuses that provide a continuum of care — from assisted living to skilled nursing care, all in one location.

Home Care
Home Care is a general term to describe services delivered at home to recovering, disabled, or terminally ill persons in need of medical, nursing, social, or therapeutic treatment.

Adult Day Care
Daily structured programs in a community setting with activities and health-related and rehabilitation services to elderly who are physically or emotionally disabled and need a protective environment.

Alzheimer’s Care
Alzheimer’s Care provides specialized care and housing tailored to the special needs of individuals with this disease.

Low Income-Affordable
55+ Lifestyle, Independent Living and Assisted Living communities offering one of several different government assistance programs designed for low income seniors. Income restrictions generally apply and individuals must meet certain criteria to qualify for the assistance. The two most common programs are the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program.

Respite Care-Short Term Stay
Temporary relief from duties for caregivers, ranging from several hours to days. May be provided in-home or in a residential care setting such as an assisted living facility or nursing home.

Thank you for viewing this Article…
For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Senior Citizen Relocation Expert”

Accreditation: A seal of approval given by a governing body to a housing and/or service provider. To become accredited, the community or provider must meet specific requirements set by the accreditation entity and is then generally required to undergo a thorough review process by a team of evaluators to ensure certain standards of quality. The accrediting organizations are not government agencies or regulatory bodies. Examples of some accreditation bodies for the senior housing and care industry include CCAC (Continuing Care Accreditation Commission), CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) and JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations).

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Everyday activities such as bathing, grooming, eating, toileting, and dressing.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): Law passed by Congress in 1980, establishing a clear and comprehensive prohibition of discrimination on the basis of disability.

Administrator: Generally, a licensed professional who manages the day-to-day operation of a care facility such as a nursing home or assisted living facility.

Adult Day Care: Daily structured programs in a community setting with activities and health-related and rehabilitation services to elderly who are physically or emotionally disabled and need a protective environment. This care is provided for during the day, the individual returning home for the evening.

Aging in Place: Concept which advocates allowing a resident to choose to remain in his/her living environment despite the physical and or mental decline that may occur with the aging process of aging.

Alzheimer’s: Degenerative age-related disease that impairs an individual’s cognitive ability. Symptoms may include forgetfulness, wandering, and inability to recognize others. The disease is caused by neuron dysfunction and death in specific brain regions responsible for cognitive functions. Both genetic and environmental factors likely play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Click here to learn more.

Ambulatory: Describes ability to ambulate, walk around, not bedridden or hospitalized.

Assisted Living: In general, state-licensed program offered at a residential community with services that include meals, laundry, housekeeping, medication reminders, and assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). The exact definition will vary from state to state, and a few states do not license assisted living facilities. Generally regarded as one to two steps below skilled nursing in level of care. Approximately 90 percent of the country’s assisted living services are paid for with private funds, although some states have adopted Medicaid waiver programs. Might also be referred to as Personal Care, Board and Care, Residential Care, Boarding Home, etc., although some states differentiate between their definition of “Assisted Living” and these other terms (e.g., Washington state recognizes and licenses “Assisted Living” facilities as well as “Boarding Homes”; Although licensed by the State of Washington, a Boarding Home does not meet the higher physical plant and service requirements necessary to be considered an Assisted Living facility) .

Charge Nurse: An RN or LPN who is responsible for the supervision of a unit within a nursing facility. The charge nurse schedules and supervises nursing staff and provides care to facility residents.

Congregate Housing: See Independent Living (may be also referred to as Supportive Housing).

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC): Housing planned and operated to provide a continuum of accommodations and services for seniors including, but not limited to, independent living, congregate housing, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. A CCRC resident contract often involves either an entry fee or buy-in fee in addition to the monthly service charges, which may change according to the medical services required. Entry fees may be partially or fully refundable. The fee is used primarily as a method of privately financing the development of the project and for payment for future healthcare. CCRCs are typically licensed by the state. See also Life Care Community.

Continuum of Care: Full spectrum of care available at Continuing Care Retirement Communities which may include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Nursing Care, Home Health, Home Care, and Home and Community Based Services.

Convalescent Home: See Nursing Home.

Dementia: Progressive neurological, cognitive, or medical disorder that affects memory, judgment, and cognitive powers.

Developmental Disability (DD): Affliction characterized by chronic physical and mental disabilities, which may include: cerebral palsy, retardation, thyroid problems, seizures, quadriplegia.

Director of Nursing (DON): A DON oversees all nursing staff in a nursing home, and is responsible for formulating nursing policies and monitoring the quality of care delivered, as well as the facility’s compliance with federal and state regulations pertaining to nursing care.

HMO: A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is an organized system for providing comprehensive health care in a specific geographic area to a voluntarily enrolled group of members.

Home Health Care: Provision of medical and nursing services in the individual’s home by a licensed provider.

Hospice Care: Care and comfort measures provided to those with a terminal illness and their families- it can include medical, counseling, and social services. Most hospice care is furnished in-home, while specialized hospices or hospitals also provide this service.

Independent Living: Multi-unit senior housing development that may provide supportive services such as meals, housekeeping, social activities, and transportation (Congregate Housing, Supportive Housing, Retirement Community). Independent Living typically encourages socialization by provision of meals in a central dining area and scheduled social programs. May also be used to describe housing with few or no services (Senior Apartment).

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs): Day-to-day tasks such as preparing meals, shopping, managing money, taking medication, and housekeeping.

Kitchenette: Each facility may have its own definition of a kitchenette, but generally one includes a sink, cabinet space, and a mini-refrigerator, maybe a microwave. In contrast, a full kitchen would usually have a burner unit, sink, cabinets, full-size refrigerator, and possibly a microwave or stove.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): LPNs are trained to administer technical nursing procedures as well as provide a range of health care services, such as administration of medication and changing of dressings. One year of post high school education and passage of a state licensing exam is required.

Life Care Community: A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) which offers an insurance type contract and provides all levels of care. It often includes payment for acute care and physician’s visits. Little or no change is made in the monthly fee, regardless of the level of medical care required by the resident, except for cost of living increases.

Long-Term Care: Provision of services to persons of any age who are afflicted with chronic health impairments.

Long-term Care Insurance: Privately issued insurance policy which covers the cost of nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care. Premiums are based on age, health, length of deductible period, amount paid, and duration of benefits. Currently pays only two percent of national nursing home costs.

Managed Care: There is currently no standard definition of managed care, but it can best be described as a combination of insurance and a health care delivery system. The basic goal of managed care is to coordinate all health care services received to maximize benefits and minimize costs. Managed care plans use their own network of health care providers and a system of prior approval from a primary care doctor in order to achieve this goal. Providers include: specialists, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, therapists, and home health care agencies.

Medicaid: A jointly funded medical financial Federal-State health insurance assistance program, offering benefits to individuals with limited financial resources, the disabled, and the elderly. There are income eligibility criteria which must be met to qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid accounts for about 52 percent of the nation’s care costs, and is the source of payment for almost 70 percent of residents in nursing homes. The person must have exhausted nearly all assets and be in a nursing facility that participates in this program. Medicaid can reimburse Nursing Facilities for the long-term care of qualifying seniors, and in some states, Medicaid pays for Assisted Living care through Medicaid waivers.

Medicare: Nationwide medical insurance program administered by the Social Security Administration for individuals 65 and over and certain disabled people, regardless of income. Provides for hospital and nursing facility care (Part A) and physician services, therapies, and home health care (Part B).

Medical Director: A staff medical director assumes overall responsibility for the formulation and implementation of all policies related to medical care. The medical director also coordinates with an individual’s personal physician to ensure that the facility delivers the care that is prescribed. In some instances, the medical director may be a resident’s primary physician.

Medications Management / Medication Administration: Formalized procedure with a written set of rules for the management of self-administered medicine, as in an assisted living setting. A program may include management of the timing and dosage for residents, and could include coordination with a resident’s personal physician. The resident must take the medication him or herself. For instance, the facility can remind the resident that she needs to give herself the medicine injection, but the facility cannot perform the actual injection itself.

Medigap Insurance: Private health insurance policies that supplement Medicare coverage, covering health care costs above those covered by Medicare Part A or Part B. Does not provide benefits for long term care, covering primarily hospital and doctor bills.

Non-Ambulatory: Inability to ambulate, walk around, and usually bedridden or hospitalized.

Not-for-Profit: Status of ownership and/or operation characterized by government by community-based boards of trustees who are all volunteers. Board members donate their time and talents to ensure that a not-for-profit organization’s approach to caring for older people responds to local needs. Not-for-profit homes and services turn any surplus income back into improving or expanding services for their clients or residents. Many not-for-profit organizations are often associated with religious denominations and fraternal groups. Not-for-profits may also interact with Congress and federal agencies to further causes that serve the elderly.

Nurse Assistant: A Nurse Assistant provides the most personal care to residents, including bathing, dressing, and toileting. Must be trained, tested, and certified to provide care in nursing facilities that participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Nurse assistants work under the supervision of an Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse.

Nursing Home: Facility licensed by the state that provides 24-hour nursing care, room and board, and activities for convalescent residents and those with chronic and/or long-term care illnesses. One step below hospital acute care. Regular medical supervision and rehabilitation therapy are mandated to be available, and nursing homes are eligible to participate in the Medicaid program. May be referred to as Nursing Facility or Convalescent Home. See also Skilled Nursing Facility. Click here to learn more.

Occupational Therapy: Process to help individuals relearn activities of daily living, generally administered by a licensed therapist.

Physical Therapy: Process that includes individualized programs of exercise to improve physical mobility, often administered following a stroke, fall, or accident. Physical therapists plan and administer prescribed physical therapy treatment programs for residents to help restore their function and strength.

Registered Nurse (RN): Graduate trained nurse who has both passed a state board examination and is licensed by a state agency to practice nursing. The RN plans for resident care by assessing resident needs, developing and monitoring care plans in conjunction with physicians, as well as executing highly technical, skilled nursing treatments. A minimum of two years of college is required in addition to passage of the state exams.

Rehabilitation: Therapeutic care for persons requiring intensive physical, occupational, or speech therapy.

Residential Care: See Assisted Living.

Respite Care: Temporary relief from duties for caregivers, ranging from several hours to days. May be provided in-home or in a residential care setting such as an assisted living facility or nursing home.

Senior Apartment: Age-restricted multiunit housing with self-contained living units for older adults who are able to care for themselves. Usually no additional services such as meals or transportation are provided.

The good news is that properties are still selling in Houston, TX. One quick look at the tax records or Houston area MLS and you will see thousands of recent sales. To successfully sell your property you need to figure out what was wrong. There are typically 6 reasons why a home does not sell.

1. Absence of a pro-active marketing plan
Make sure the Realtor you hire has a proven marketing plan. Most buyers work with a Realtor so it is imperative that your agent is actively marketing your home to other agents as well as buyers. A good agent should provide you with periodic marketing reports to demonstrate what marketing activities they are using. They should also provide you with feedback from other agents and potential buyers to help improve the salability of your home.

2. Representation lacking skill and experience
Choosing the right Realtor to represent you can make all the difference in the world. Hiring an agent just because they are a friend or relative, or because they tell you they can get you more money for your home, could actually end up costing you thousands of dollars in the long run. In the industry we call this “buying the listing”. An agent will tell the seller a high sales price to get the listing.  After the seller has listed the property the Realtor will periodically chip away at the seller trying to get them to lower the price to a realistic level over the coming weeks. This is not a good way to conduct business. Sellers have the most leverage when it is initially placed on the market. This is the best time to sell the property.

It’s important to make sure that you hire a professional who will be open and honest with you about the sale of your home. They should provide you with a detailed market analysis and help you select appropriate pricing.They should also be willing to point out potential sale killers and provide you with tips and advice on how to overcome them.

3. Difficult access to property
You need to make sure that your home is easily accessible to Realtors and buyers. If there are plenty of homes like yours on the market and they are easy to access Realtors will skip showing your home if it is too much trouble. Using a lockbox will allow agents to show your home while you are away. Typically a Realtor who wants to show your home will call the listing agents office to schedule an appointment. This way a record is kept of who entered the property. Also, the electronic lock boxes keep a record of who accessed your home so your agent can contact them for feedback. It is likely that your home will be skipped if you make it difficult to show.

4. Strengths of property location not emphasized
Real estate is all about location, and some locations are clearly better than others. Obviously, if your location is outstanding it is easier to sell your home.  The real challenge in selling a home is when your location is not good. For example, if your home is on a busy street you can use hedging or a wall around the property to block unwanted views and reduce noise. If you have a nice view make sure it is unobstructed and add a sitting area to capitalize on the views.

5. Overlooking inexpensive cosmetic improvements
You only have one opportunity to make a good first impression. The condition of your home directly affects its marketability. Little things like a dirty walls or walls in need of paint, soiled carpeting, dirty floors, leaky faucets, unusual paint colors or pet odors can be more than enough to scare buyers away. It’s important to make sure that your home is in tip-top condition inside and out before putting it on the market.
Have you ever walked into a home builders model? The home is clean, walls are painted nicely, not too much furniture, no clutter and very bright with natural light. Try to get your property to look like a model home.

6. Pricing
This is the easiest problem to fix but the hardest for sellers to accept. If offers are coming in way lower than your asking price, or just not coming in at all, it may be time to re-examine your pricing. There may have been a time, not too long ago, when homes could be overpriced and buyers would be in a bidding war over them, but that time has past. Get those days out of your head. We are in a different market now. The market has changed, there are more homes on the market, and buyers have more choices.

If possible, find the most recent sales in your area. The value of your home is somewhat determined by your location and the value of the homes around you.  If there have been 3 similar homes that have sold recently in your neighborhood it is fairly easy to figure out the value of your home. If 3 similar homes have recently sold for $400,000, $425,000 and $418,000 there is pretty good chance your homes value is somewhere around this price. Forget the fact that a home sold last year for $480,000. That was last year not this year.

The problems with overpricing:

• Your house will not appraise properly for a successful sale.
• Buyers are typically educated about the real estate market and will usually find out what has recently sold in your area
• No one will even look at your property if is it too over priced.
• You will lose the excitement that a new listing generates. Realtors are working with buyers who have seen what is currently on the market and are waiting for something new to be listed. Therefore, the most activity will take place in the first 30 days of a listing. Your home will probably receive its highest and best offers during this time. After that initial period, the only people to look at your home will be new buyers entering the marketplace or bottom feeders.
• You will lose the most qualified prospects. Buyers won’t be able to make an offer because they probably won’t see your property. They will view the properties that are priced within their purchase power range, knowing that they cannot afford anything above their price range.
• Overpricing helps sell your competition. If you overprice your home you are only making your competition look better.
• Your home may become stale. Buyers may wonder why it has been on the market so long or if something is wrong with the property, even after you lower the price. You may even have to settle for less than market value. A house takes on a reputation surprisingly fast, so don’t wear out your welcome on the market.
• You lose a strong negotiation position when your house is on the market a long time: Prospects will not rush to make an offer on an overpriced property, and you may feel compelled to accept less when they finally do.

I hope you found this information useful…
For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Real Estate Expert”

Our exclusive Moving Made Easy Senior Relocation System will take the trauma out of moving and you can start to enjoy your Golden Years. We are committed to insuring that your relocation is as stress free as possible.

Moving to a new home and making new friends is a Major Event in anyone’s life. For the senior citizen population it can be traumatic. Bruce Lessey’s expertise makes the process simpler and more supportive, than trying to handle it alone.

Being a golden-ager can be an exciting and challenging time in one’s life. Every public opinion survey of older adults indicates that the vast majority desire to remain in their own home as long as possible, but there is still a time when many homeowners choose to change residences.

Among their reasons are:

• Lifestyle changes
• Different climate
• To be near grandchildren
• New limitations in mobility created by a physical or health related condition

In all cases the Relocation Professionals at Golden Years Relocation are ready to help. We are especially sensitive to the needs and expectations of senior citizens. Golden Years Relocation is dedicated to servicing the needs of the senior citizen populations we always put you first. Our recommendation for independent or assisted housing is based on your unique needs. We never take a fee from the communities we recommend.

We all want our elderly family members to live healthy and independent lives as long as possible but there comes a time when this is no longer possible for a variety of reasons. At some point they find it increasingly difficult to manage a house, their yard and other day-to-day responsibilities of home ownership. Golden Years Relocation service is the first national relocation service dedicated to the needs of the senior citizen population and their loved ones.

Golden Years Relocation service provides simple supportive start-to-finish assistance for those seniors looking to downsize and relocate. We also provide full house closures as well as help with a variety of other services. We are committed to insuring that the relocation of your loved one is as stress free as possible. We are not just involved we are COMMITTED.

The Relocation Professionals at Golden Years Relocation are ready to help you. We have worked with seniors who are changing their residences whether they are moving from or to Houston or anywhere in the United States. We are especially sensitive to the needs and expectations of senior citizens. Our professionals are patient and understanding of your individual needs. Please contact one of our Senior Specialists Today.

Our 3 Part System,
Can help even the busiest of people because it is designed to be simple, supportive, start-to-finish assistance for the senior population and their loved ones who assist them…

Part 1 – Moving and Packing.
We will pack and move one item or a thousand items, across the city or around the world.

Part 2 – Selling Unused Items.
We will help in selling the unused items that you have decided not to take with you to your new home.

Part 3 – Selling your residence.
We will be marketing your home so that it sells at the highest price possible and you get the proceeds quickly. Our Auction Method is quick and simple. You do not have to worry about people tramping through your home or making costly repairs.

Our Services Can Help You Accomplish Your Goals,
Golden Years Relocation service provides simple, supportive, start-to-finish assistance for the senior population and their loved ones.

We Provide . . .

Moving and Packing Services -
Whether you are moving across the city, the nation or around the world, our moving consultant can assist you in finding the most cost effective moving and packing services.

Estate Auctions -
We can assist you in selling the contents of your home. We will provide you with a complete inventory of everything sold. We can hold the sale at your place or ours.

Assistance in Selling Your Home -
With the strength and global power of Coldwell Banker, we will list your home and sell it either by traditional listing methods or the ultra simple and fast Auction Method. We will review the pros and cons of each method with you in the privacy of your home.

Services when and where you need them -
You may choose any part of our services, whichever one fits your unique needs.

visit the Golden Years Relocation website

For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Senior Citizen Relocation Expert”

1. HIRING THE WRONG VENDORS
Hiring unqualified contractors can cost both time and money…important to generating wealth from real estate. Many contractors don’t understand investment real estate. Work with those that do.

2. SEARCHING FOR DEALS BY YOURSELF
Novice investors burn up hours of time and gallons of gasoline looking for deals. The best deals find their way to wholesalers and real estate agents that specialize in investment properties. Build a team of agents that know you and what you’re looking for.

3. HIRING PROPERTY MANAGERS
The cost of outside property management can improve cash flow and lets you do what you do best.

4. OVEREMPHASIZING CASH FLOW
Make money by acquiring equity, asset appreciation and cash flow. Don’t miss out on large equity and appreciation gains by looking only at cash flow. The secret to real estate wealth is acquiring appreciating assets.

5. MINIMAL CASH RESERVES
Keeping less than a 3 month cash reserve for each property owned creates a problem for investors who can’t weather a vacancy or a delay in section 8 payments. Keep a little more cash on hand for emergencies.

6. WAITING TO TRANSFER UTILITIES
This is a simple mistake that gets investors every time! They wait until closing to transfer the utilities into their name. They find extra reconnection fees and days of delays when they need contractors in their house!

7. RUSHING TOO FAST
Don’t fall for the quick buck schemes. Wealth comes from a solid plan and property appreciation over time. Don’t count on finding a “steal”, taking advantage of vulnerable sellers at closing or any of the other schemes you read about.

8. ACQUISITION WITHOUT DILIGENCE
Make money when you buy the right property. Buying the wrong house can cost an investor dearly. Take the time to do your homework on each property. Make sure you’re buying the right type of property in the right area for the right price. A little extra diligence up front can save you thousands of dollars and help you reach your goals faster.

9. SPENDING TOO MUCH CASH UP FRONT
The key to building wealth is acquiring multiple properties. The less cash you put up front, the more properties you can purchase. We have access to special financing to minimize their cash out of pocket and allow them to buy more houses and increase their profits.

10. PROCRASTINATION
Too many good investors drag their feet too long and allow their fears to keep them from making money. In real estate, there is only one thing for sure. If you don’t buy a property, you won’t make any money. Take the first step.

Thank you for viewing this Article…
For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Associate Broker”

The sale and purchase of a home is one of the most significant events that an individual will experience in their lifetime. It is more than the simple purchase of housing, for it directly impacts the hopes, dreams, aspirations, and economic destiny of those involved. It is for this reason that the Fair Housing Act and other federal and state laws were enacted to guarantee a right to a national housing market free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, and national origin.

THE LAW

Civil Rights Act of 1866

The Civil Rights Act of 1866 prohibits all racial discrimination in the sale or rental of property.

Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act declares a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States. The law makes illegal any discrimination in the sale, lease or rental of housing, or making housing otherwise unavailable, because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in places of public accommodations and commercial facilities.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act

The Equal Credit Opportunity Act makes discrimination unlawful with respect to any aspect of a credit application on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age or because all or part of the applicant’s income derives from any public assistance program.

State and Local Laws

State and local laws often provide broader coverage and prohibit discrimination based on additional classes not covered by federal law.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

The home seller, the home seeker, and the real estate professional all have rights and responsibilities under the law.

For the Home Seller

As a home seller or landlord you have a responsibility and a requirement under the law not to discriminate in the sale, rental and financing of property on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. You cannot instruct the licensed broker or salesperson acting as your agent to convey for you any limitations in the sale or rental because the real estate professional is also bound by law not to discriminate. Under the law, a home seller or landlord cannot establish discriminatory terms or conditions in the purchase or rental; deny that housing is available, or advertise that the property is available only to persons of a certain race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

For the Home Seeker

You have the right to expect that housing will be available to you without discrimination or other limitations based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

This includes the right to expect:

• Housing in your price range made available to you without discrimination;
• Equal professional service;
• The opportunity to consider a broad range of housing choices;
• No discriminatory limitations on communities or locations of housing;
• No discrimination in the financing, appraising, or insuring of housing;
• Reasonable accommodations in rules, practices and procedures for persons with disabilities;
• Non-discriminatory terms and conditions for the sale, rental, financing, or insuring of a dwelling; and
• To be free from harassment or intimidation for exercising your fair housing rights

For the Real Estate Professional

Agents in a real estate transaction are prohibited by law from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. A request from the home seller or landlord to act in a discriminatory manner in the sale, lease or rental cannot legally be fulfilled by the real estate professional.

THE REALTOR® FAIR HOUSING PROGRAM

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® has developed a Fair Housing Program to provide resources and guidance to REALTORS® in ensuring equal professional services for all people. The term REALTOR® identifies a licensed professional in real estate who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Not all licensed real estate brokers and salespersons are members of the National Association, and only those who are may identify themselves as REALTORS®. They conduct their business and activities in accordance with a strict Code of Ethics.

The Code of Ethics

Article 10 of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® Code of Ethics provides that “REALTORS® shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. REALTORS® shall not be a party to any plan or agreement to discriminate against a person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

A REALTOR® pledges to conduct business in keeping with the spirit and letter of the Code of Ethics. Article 10 imposes obligations upon REALTORS® and is also a firm statement of support for equal opportunity in housing.

IF YOU SUSPECT DISCRIMINATION

Call the Local Board of REALTORS®

Local Boards of REALTORS® will accept complaints alleging violations of the Code of Ethics filed by a home seeker who alleges discriminatory treatment in the availability, purchase or rental of housing. Local Boards of REALTORS® have a responsibility to enforce the Code of Ethics through professional standards procedures and corrective action in cases where a violation of the Code of Ethics is proven to have occurred.

Call the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Local Boards of REALTORS® will accept complaints alleging violations of the Code of Ethics filed by a home seeker who alleges discriminatory treatment in the availability, purchase or rental of housing. Local Boards of REALTORS® have a responsibility to enforce the Code of Ethics through professional standards procedures and corrective action in cases where a violation of the Code of Ethics is proven to have occurred.

Call the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Complaints alleging discrimination in housing may be filed with the nearest office of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), or by calling HUD’s toll free numbers, 1-800-669-9777 (voice), or 1-800-543-8294 (TDD).

Contact HUD on the internet at http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/index.cfm

Purchasing a rental property may be for you – especially in today’s real estate market – if you are looking for a way to increase your personal wealth.  Of course, we can’t expect sky-high appreciation rates all the time and one thing about real estate, particularly land, they’re not making it any more! With the continued increase in population and area growth demand, values will continue to increase. And how many times have you heard someone say, I wish I had bought property back when prices were low?  Today we must look at a residential market in which a well-chosen, well-managed rental property of one to four units can be the “shining star” in any investor’s portfolio.  The key to success is doing your homework and making sure that the numbers work in your favor.  If you bought your own home, you already have realized the financial advantages of real estate ownership.  Here is a brief overview of the many ways you can profit from owning rental real estate today.

1. Investment properties can lower your taxes.

Investors tax incentives can be substantial.  Some investors can use deductions from rental property assets to offset some of their wage income.  Other investors, while not eligible for the offset, can avoid owing taxes on their rental income by showing adequate expenses and deductions.  Even if rental payments do not cover the investor’s expenses, tax breaks may actually make up the difference or more.  As an investor, you can claim deductions for actual costs you incur for financing, managing, and operating the rental property.  That means mortgage interest payments, real estate taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs, property management fees, travel, advertising, and utilities if not paid for by the tenant, can all be deductions.  All can be subtracted from your adjusted gross income when figuring your personal income taxes up to  the amount of real  estate  income you receive.   Also, don’t forget about depreciation.  The tax code assumes buildings and improvements wear out over time.  These losses are deductible from income, regardless of the property’s actual market value.

2. Have a positive cash flow.

Positive cash flow results when the rent you receive exceeds the total you pay for the mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other costs.  That’s not at all as hard as it sounds.  First, decide whether you need a positive cash flow before or after taxes.  A pre-tax positive cash flow translates into current income, a goal of many retired investors and others with current expenses.  Properties yielding a pre-tax positive cash flow are harder, but certainly not impossible, to find.  Be aware that not all properties will yield rental income which is high enough to cover your expenses.  Make sure you know how much rent to expect by researching rents for similar units nearby, the property’s current rental fee, and that of the last increase.

A positive after-tax cash flow can come from a negative pre-tax cash flow.  Generally, the depreciation deduction makes up the difference.  If you meet the eligibility test, you’ll be able to use the depreciation to shelter some of your taxable income and reduce your tax bill.  Second, you’ll want to ensure your tenants make timely rent payments and take care of the property.  Of course, a positive cash flow is impossible without income.  A thorough credit, employment and landlord check of any potential tenants is a must and will help you track down the best renters.

3. Use leverage.

As an investor, you magnify the returns on your investment by borrowing a large part of the purchase price using the bank’s money! That is, by limiting the amount of cash you invest, you make your cash go farther.  Leverage means using borrowed money to increase equity.  And equity – the difference between what the property is worth and the balance owed on the mortgage – is what’s important when figuring out whether your dollars are wisely invested.

4. Benefit from growing equity.

Even at a modest rate of appreciation, real estate will yield a higher return on the cash investment than most other financial investments, such as bonds or long-term CD’s.  Each mortgage principal payment you make is a payment to yourself.  You build equity as your mortgage principal is paid down, even if your investment property doesn’t increase in value.  Although homes in different parts of town may appreciate at entirely different rates, the key is to have a knowledgeable professional carefully guiding you through the steps.  Know how much equity you have and learn to use it to leverage into other properties; then watch your real estate portfolio and your personal wealth grow!

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must.  Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her.  Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold.  Does your agent work with a good lender that has the reputation of excellent service and low rates to assist you in obtaining financing?  Does your agent ask questions of you in order to have a full understanding of what you are looking for and to help you to find the best property for you?

For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Associate Broker”

This world-class city offers excellent housing choices in every price range, in both urban neighborhoods and outlying communities.

Relocating to Houston could be the best move you’ve ever made. Moving to a new city is exciting, but nerve-racking at the same time. Houston’s plentiful neighborhoods, superior medical care and quality educational opportunities make adjusting to new surroundings painless.

As real estate moguls developed SpaceCity, the number of appealing neighborhoods became expansive. Houston’s broad selection of builders makes for a competitive market, with some of the country’s largest builders based here. Houston boasts one of the most diverse populations among major U.S. cities.

Master-Planned Communities

Anyone shopping for a home in or around Houston will often hear the phrase “master-planned community.” Developers launched this concept in the late 1960s and it has been extremely successful. Homes in these communities have strict regulations and deed restrictions. They feature amenities such as plentiful trees and greenbelts, community centers, educational facilities and recreation areas such as pools, ballparks and golf courses. These communities are found in the areas surrounding Houston and include Conroe, Copperfield, Fort Bend County, Friendswood, Jersey Village, Katy, Kingwood, League City, Pearland and The Woodlands, among others. Masterplanned communities offer a mix of lush scenery and modern conveniences, with locations near wooded acreage and bodies of water enhanced by abundant schools, shopping centers and restaurants.

Wooded Neighborhoods

Houston is an astonishingly green city. As Houston’s population and physical size grew, the city itself took in regions that were established as rural areas and suburbs.The result is a vast city of business districts mingled with friendly neighborhoods. The City of Houston includes incorporated communities such as West University Place, named because of its proximity to Rice University.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in residential development inside Loop 610, the freeway that encircles central Houston. Other close-in areas include Meyerland, Houston Heights, South Main, MacGregor-Riverside, Third Ward, Acres Homes, Denver Harbor and Idylwood. These areas feature historical homes and neighborhoods brimming with character.

No description of Houston’s neighborhoods would be complete without mentioning River Oaks. This upscale area is home to big names, big oaks and big homes. New construction is less available, but the high quality of existing homes makes renovation worthwhile.

Urban Living

The Downtown Houston area offers a vibrant neighborhood for city dwellers. In addition to being the city’s central business district, downtown is home to exciting performances in the Theater District, Major League Baseball at Minute Maid Park and both NBA and WNBA, plus professional hockey and major concerts at the Toyota Center. Downtown restaurants abound, many with award-winning cuisine. The social scene boasts everything from sports bars and beer emporiums to chic dance clubs and music venues.

Downtown Houston and nearby Midtown offer a multitude of residential options. New high-rise apartment buildings offer amenities such as a loft floor and intown convenience. Similarly, many historical buildings have been converted into lofts with plenty of history and character, along with modern conveniences.

Just south of Downtown Houston, Midtown is an up-and-coming neighborhood. Numerous mid-rise (two to three story) apartment developments as well as high-rise lofts provide convenient and stylish living options. Some lofts feature restaurants and retail shops on the ground floor with apartments above. Also in this area, townhomes offer a more private residential option, similar to stand-alone, single-family homes.

The METRORail light rail service provides transportation throughout both Downtown and Midtown. The rail line’s service spans from the University of Houston-Downtown, on the northern border of downtown, all the way to Reliant Park, home of Reliant Stadium and the Houston Texans. The rail line includes stops in the Museum District, Texas Medical Center and Rice University.

Schools and Higher Education

The quality of educational programs plays a major role in your relocation decision. Houston I.S.D. is the largest independent school system in Texas and the seventh-largest in the nation. However, Houston I.S.D. is just one of the 31 independent school districts in Harris County and its surrounding areas. Many of these school districts have received awards of excellence from the State of Texas. Approximately 400 private and parochial schools also serve the area.

To carry Houston’s youth into the professional world, the area has 25 institutions of higher learning. Junior colleges, universities, law schools, medical schools and a wealth of professional and technical training schools provide endless educational opportunities for adults.

The highest compliment I can receive is a referral of your friends, family and business associates. Thank you for viewing this Article…

For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide
the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Relocation Expert”

For owners that live out of the area

If you need any maintenance to the property for preparation to sell, I can arrange services such as painting, cleaning, steam cleaning carpets and lawn service. Should your property need services such as hauling, fence repair, roofing, appliance replacement, carpet replacement I work closely with vendors who can provide any services your property may require in preparation for sale.

Perhaps you want to buy a rental property

The letter that I frequently send to you, I mail to hundreds of absentee owners. Most will own one or two properties and some will own 10 to 20 or even more. These are investors who are increasing their inventory or selling or exchanging other investment property such as luxury duplexes or small apartments. Another great service I provide in marketing your house to sell is VIRTUAL HOME TOUR.

This is a series of video pictures of the interior of your house. The great advantage to you is prospective buyers for your house have a chance to see not only the exterior but the interior as well eliminating the casual looker with less disturbance to your tenant. Many agents ask the sellers to pay for the “Virtual Home Tour”, but I feel it is such a tremendous marketing tool, particularly for tenant occupied properties, that I pay for this myself.

Choosing your Agent wisely. Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon

A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written step-by-step 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must.  Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her.  Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold.  Does your agent work with a good lender that can assist your new buyer to obtain financing?  A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

I have the knowledge and the resources to sell your property for top dollar!

Thank you for viewing this Article…
For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Associate Broker”

Any agent can get your house sold the first time it appears for sale if these factors are in place. Let’s now review these five factors.

Factor # 1 LOCATION

The location of your house is what is and cannot be changed. In the buyer’s mind a house on a busy street, near power lines, next to or backing up to a commercial business or perhaps too close to a school is less desirable.

Homes located in a quiet cul-de-sac, backing up to a greenbelt, or offering an exceptional view are more desirable.

Factor # 2 PRICE

Every home owner wants to sell their house for as much money as possible, but many times if the asking price is too high your house will help sell other houses in your area. Over-pricing property usually has the following effects:

A. Increases market time, which causes homes to sell for less than market value.
B. Buyers who should be looking at your house will not see it because it is out of their price range.
C. Buyers who do look at it purchase larger homes that are priced the same.
D. You receive low offers or no offers at all. Remember, a higher asking price does not automatically equal a higher sales price. The more you overprice a property, the more likely you will sell it at a price lower than it is worth.
You want to price your house to attract buyers for your neighborhood. The more buyers you have the more they will compete for your house, which will drive your price up. Then you can receive offers over and above your asking price.

Factor # 3 CONDITION

Buyers are wanting to get the most home for their money and many times are looking at new homes as well as resale homes.  Buyers will pay top dollar for homes that are in pristine condition. Your agent should be knowledgeable in this area and can make suggestions of minor things you can do to help your home show its very best.

Factor # 4 The MARKET

The real estate market is always in one of three types of markets.

A. A hot seller’s market where there are low inventory and more buyers which, in turn, drive selling prices up.
B. A normal stable market where there is an equal number of buyers in proportion to the number of homes for sale. The result is home prices remain stable.
C. A buyer’s market where there are more homes for sale than buyers who want to buy. This, in turn, will cause home prices to decline.

Factor # 5 The AGENT you choose

Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale. Unfortunately, many agents still cling to ineffective marketing ideas that do little to sell your home, which means that you miss out on the best buyers. Choose your agent based upon

A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a step-by-step 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price, within a time frame that best works for you.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Does your agent work with a good lender that can assist your new buyer to obtain financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for viewing this Article…
For prompt, courteous, professional service, call Bruce Lessey:
Office: 1-(713)-623-8899
Direct: 1-(832) 654-5670

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you. ™

Sincerely,
Bruce Lessey
“Your Houston Associate Broker”