COVID 19 NJ Real Estate Update

COVID 19 has made an impact on NJ in a big way.  And in South Jersey we have not as many cases

of COVID 19 however we’ve experienced a severe economic impact with many businesses forced to close.  Our team has continued to work from home and remotely to keep our clients safe practicing social distancing and using personal protection equipment.  Governor Murphy has allowed us to show properties on a 1 on 1 basis.  Open houses are not allowed at this time.

All these changes have forced us to get creative.  Our home seller clients can now sell their home without ever having anyone enter it.  Our eLISTING Virtual Home Selling System makes this possible.   For buyer we are working as remotely as possible through our eBUYER Virtual Home Buyer System.  This allows us to tour homes live with our clients while they stay in the safety and comfort of their home.  For open houses we’ve moved them online.  eOPEN is our Online Open House System that allows for personal face to face video interaction.  These open houses are also broadcast live to social media.

We are changing the was we do business to continue to help our real estate clients safely during this challenging time.  I’m available for a free phone or video conference to talk about your needs.  Call or text me at 609-338-3773.  Best wishes, Matt

5 Warning Signs That Your Parents May Need Your Help

One unfortunate aspect of aging is that living independently can become more difficult. What are some of the warning signs that your mom and/or dad may need assistance?

1. BRUISING

Older skin bruises more easily and they may not be telling you that they are experiencing falls, bumping into things, or have become increasingly unsteady. A medical checkup and a cane or walker may be in order.

2. FOOD CRISIS

An unexplained weight loss that isn’t the result of a health issue may be an issue with food accessibility. Check the refrigerator and cabinets. Unkempt food storage areas with ruined food, or a noticeable lack of food, may flag trouble in self care. Parents may be unable to clean or shop like they once did. Getting help with household chores, shopping, or meal preparation may be in order to be sure that healthy, fresh food is available while extending their ability to safely age at home.

3. UNPAID BILLS

Your parents may not be able to tend to paperwork and bills as they once did. You may discover piles of unpaid bills, cutoff notices, or even cancelled services. Ensuring that vital services are uninterrupted is essential since even a short loss of utilities can have an immediate and life-threatening result for older individuals. Helping them set up automatic bill payments, assisting them with bill paying once a month or hiring a bill paying service will eliminate this concern.

4. ODOR

If the house has an unpleasant odor, it could be the result of rotting food, the inability to clean and dispose of trash, a difficulty with hygiene or health issues that have gone undiagnosed (like a urinary tract infection). Track down the cause of the odor to determine what steps need to be taken to keep things safe at home.

5. HOME IN DISARRAY

Everyone’s house is messy from time to time.

However, as it becomes more difficult to move around and do regular household chores, these messes may become bigger. They should never progress to the point of creating health or safety issues. Consider hiring a cleaning service or an organization expert before things become too overwhelming. Let your parents know that you don’t want to intrude, but you are genuinely concerned for their health and safety and want to help them find solutions that help them stay in their home longer and remain safe.