Getting Your Edge: How to Downsize Your Home.

Navigating the emotional and logistical maze of downsizing is a daunting process. Discover the secrets to a seamless transition as we chat with Jeff Marks from Seattle Magpies. Jeff walks us through the entire process, from figuring out what to keep and what to sell, to managing the emotional toll of parting with cherished possessions. You'll hear touching stories, like Neil's journey to a retirement home, offering a heartfelt look into the challenges and rewards of downsizing.
Facing a hoarder house situation? Jeff shares invaluable insights on setting realistic expectations and the immense effort required to tackle such homes. With a compelling case study of Bruce, we delve into the tough decisions and strict guidelines necessary to bring order to chaos. Learn practical advice for those who must live through the liquidation process and why it's often best for homeowners to step back during their own estate sales.
Curious about the ins and outs of estate sales? Jeff breaks down how to identify valuable items that can turn a profit and the various alternative options when a full estate sale isn't feasible. From pop-up and private sales to wholesale buyouts, you'll get a comprehensive look at how to manage unsellable items and why donations are often the preferred route. We also touch on the compensation structure for such services and underscore the importance of choosing the right estate sale company to ensure a smooth, efficient process.

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In this insightful podcast episode, hosts Judy and Dennis engage in a meaningful conversation with their guest, Scot Cruz from On the Go, Moving, focusing on the intricacies of moving from one home to another. The episode is dedicated to helping individuals who are planning to sell their homes and downsize into smaller, more manageable living spaces.
The hosts and their guest delve into a wide array of topics related to the moving process, offering valuable insights and practical advice. Here's a brief summary of the key points discussed:
1. **Effective Planning for a Smooth Move:** Judy highlights the importance of giving advance notice when planning a move, emphasizing that it allows for proper preparation and accurate cost estimation. The conversation touches on the various services provided by On the Go, Moving, such as full and partial packing, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and meticulous unpacking.
2. **The Art of Packing and Protecting Valuables:** Judy, Dennis, and Scot share their expertise on packing, including common mistakes people make when handling their own materials and the significance of properly packing fragile items. They also discuss the use of protective materials like newsprint paper and bubble wrap.
3. **Mitigating Damages During the Move:** The episode provides valuable information on the different valuation options available for mitigating damages during the moving process, including the basic option that covers items at 60 cents per pound. Additionally, downsizing tips are shared, such as creating a "maybe" pile and utilizing donation or dump removal services.
4. **Navigating Different Types of Moves:** The hosts and their guest explore a variety of moving scenarios, including downsizing to assisted living or nursing homes and handling out-of-state moves. They emphasize the importance of thoroughly vetting moving companies to avoid potential risks and scams and offer recommendations for reputable movers and storage options.
5. **Vetting Service Providers for Peace of Mind:** Scot and Judy discuss the significance of vetting service providers by checking multiple platforms for reviews and looking for approval from the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Scot also offers to connect clients with other services, such as estate sales and interior designers, to aid in the downsizing process.
6. **Rules and Restrictions for Long-Distance Moves:** The episode delves into the rules and restrictions associated with long-distance moves, including items that are prohibited from being shipped, storage options, the inventory system used, and an engaging story about moving a 26-foot-long couch.
7. **Handling Specialty Items and Disposing of Unwanted Belongings:** The conversation touches on the additional costs associated with moving heavy and specialty items like pool tables and pianos. The hosts and guest explore various options for disposing of unwanted items, including consignment stores, donation centers, schools, and gyms.
8. **Comprehensive Services by On the Go, Moving:** Scot introduces the array of services his company, On the Go, Moving, provides, including junk removal, hauling, and storage solutions.
9. **Recommendation for a Trusted Mover:** The episode concludes with Dennis and Judy expressing their satisfaction with Scot's sincerity and knowledge, making plans to recommend On the Go, Moving, as their preferred mover.
10. **Future Endeavors and Business Insights:** Judy and Dennis also discuss their future plans, including reaching out to the mover for lunch and considering the benefits of selling homes during the winter. They contemplate a Thanksgiving-themed podcast episode for their next project. Additionally, they touch on various business-re

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Aging in place refers to the ability of older adults to remain living in their own homes or communities independently and comfortably, as they age and their needs change. It involves making modifications to the physical environment and accessing support services to ensure that seniors can continue to live safely and securely in their familiar surroundings. Aging in place is often seen as an alternative to institutional care or moving to a new location, allowing older adults to maintain their autonomy, social connections, and quality of life.
In episode 14, we speak with local Aging in Place expert Tom Minty to inform you about what is aging in place is, and how it might work for you. Tom is an established John L. Scott realtor based in Issaquah. But he is also heavily involved in educating real estate agents about Aging In Place (AIG), and establishing norms on the MLS, for listing homes that may serve those with disabilities. Tom Minty is also on several non profit boards dedicated to making housing more accessible to the elderly and the disabled. Judy Gratton and Dennis Day welcome Tom Minty.
Tom Minty
John L. Scott Issaquah
1700 NW Gilman Blvd #300,
Issaquah, WA 98027
(206) 617-3935Email: [email protected]
Northwest Universal Design Council
https://www.environmentsforall.org/home-checklist/

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Welcome to a comprehensive exploration of life insurance in this enlightening podcast episode of the Getting Your Edge: How to Right-Size Your Home and Life Podcast. Join co-hosts Dennis Day and Judy Gratton, as they interview Libby Carr and delve deep into the world of financial planning for individuals aged 50 and above. In this extended discussion, we aim to provide you with invaluable insights into securing your family's future and achieving peace of mind through life insurance.
**Part 1: The Foundations of Life Insurance**
Libby opens the discussion by introducing the concept of holistic financial planning, emphasizing the significance of both tangible and intangible assets in one's financial portfolio. The trio discusses the broader perspective of financial planning, where life insurance plays a pivotal role. Libby highlights the importance of life insurance for those aged 50 and above, especially for those considering downsizing their homes.
**Part 2: Unpacking the Types of Life Insurance Policies**
In this segment, we dissect the nuances of various life insurance policies. Dennis, Judy, and Libby delve into the differences between cash value and term insurance policies, shedding light on the advantages and disadvantages of each. You'll discover the intricacies of policy selection, tailored to your unique financial goals and family needs. Additionally, the hosts touch upon the inclusion of additional benefits in some policies, such as long-term care or critical illness coverage, allowing policyholders to access funds for specific healthcare needs.
**Part 3: Navigating the Complexities of Life Insurance**
As the discussion continues, Dennis, Libby, and Judy explore various critical aspects of life insurance policies. They address common questions about age limits for obtaining coverage, the possibility of borrowing against policies, and how to determine the right coverage amount based on your specific circumstances. Moreover, they distinguish between life insurance and annuities, highlighting the suitability of each for different financial objectives.
**Part 4: The Role of Annuities in Financial Security**
Annuities take center stage in this segment as the hosts discuss their role as a flexible savings vehicle. Learn how annuities provide guaranteed income and financial protection for your loved ones. The importance of diversification in your investment portfolio is also emphasized, and you'll gain insights into how independent insurance agents can help you find the best insurance policies, especially when dealing with unique health conditions.
**Part 5: The Value of Independent Insurance Agents**
Discover the value of working with independent insurance agents. Dennis, Libby, and Judy elaborate on why you should inquire whether an agent is independent. They shed light on how agents are compensated through commissions from insurance carriers and share factors that influence insurance premiums, such as age, health status, and underwriting considerations. By the end of this segment, you'll have a clear understanding of how to navigate the complex world of insurance, armed with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.
**Part 6: Demystifying the Insurance Process**
The hosts conclude their discussion by breaking down the process of obtaining a life insurance policy. They discuss customization options through riders and explain the roles of policy stakeholders, including the owner, insured, and beneficiary. Furthermore, the episode touches upon the inclusion of mortgage insurance within a life insurance policy and mentions Libby's Christmas book, which offers further financial wisdom.
Libby Carr
Carr Financial Advocates
Phone: 425-223-8556
Email: libbyca

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We are on vacation this week to chill and relax. But, we'll be back with a new episode filled with valuable and useful information to help you right-size your life soon. Thanks for being a listener. We really appreciate your support.
Dennis and Judy

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