Simple Tips to Prevent Water Damage In Your Home

Simple Tips to Prevent Water Damage In Your Home

Water damage is one of a homeowner's greatest worries since it can result in mold and expensive repairs. The following tips can help you prevent potential sources of seepage in your home.

Don't plant next to your house. A flower or shrub border is lovely but watering those plants could damage your foundation. It's wiser to keep your flower beds a few feet away from the house or make sure they slope away from it.

Use gutters and downspouts to divert rain runoff away from your foundation. If you notice water pooling after a rain, that area needs gutters. Also, make sure you have sufficient gutters for your entire roof. Extend downspouts away from the house and, if possible, discharge underground with PVC pipe to drain into the street.                                                               

Check your roof regularly for loose shingles – especially after high wind or rainstorms.           Inspect metal flashing for damage and make sure skylights are properly sealed. Check your attic for wet spots or any signs of mold, condensation, damage to insulation, or a rodent or insect infestation that could lead to weak areas and subsequent leaks.

Simple tips like these can create a happier, healthier and more valuable home. Thank you for thinking of me for all of your real estate needs, and be sure to share my contact information with anyone you know of looking to buy, sell or invest in a home.  

Toby Parks, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage  

www.TobyParksRealEstate.com

#TobyParksRealEstate #TucsonToby

Disaster Preparedness ~ What Would It Take?

This summer brought a number of disasters from the Burro Fire in the Santa Catalina Mountains east of Tucson to the Tonto National Forest wildfires, and most recently the devastating hurricanes in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico and earthquakes in Mexico. It’s made us take a step back and ask ourselves, “What would you take with you in case of disaster?” Many times evacuations take place in what feels like a moment’s notice – days, hours, or even minutes depending on how a fire or storm moves toward the neighborhood – and you’re forced to decide what is most important. Preparation before evacuation is key to getting you to safety and preserving what matters most to you.

Family, Friends, and Pets

When I think of what I would take from my home at a moment’s notice, it’s always my family, friends, and pets. The kids have backpacks from school or summer trips that are filled with a bottle of water, snacks, electronic devices, and maybe even a change of clothes. The dog sleeps in a kennel and his food and water are easy to reach and pack in the car. For the adults, we would grab each other, kids, pets, purses, wallets, and medication, and make our way to safety.

Bug Out Bag

With a bit more lead time you can pack what is called a Bug Out or Go Bag filled with essentials including dust mask, batteries, flashlights, drinking water, filtration system, snacks, pet kennel and food, shoes, socks, clothing, phone and device chargers, laptop, and sleeping bag.

• Plan one gallon of water per person and/or pet.
• Three days of easy to prepare foods like canned goods, granola and dried fruit, and protein bars.
• First aid kit and medication.
• Hygiene products including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toilet paper.
• Duct tape – it can solve a whole myriad of problems.

For families with children, you can also have a lanyard prepared for each member of the family with a picture of the family, contact information of the parents, and the name and phone number of an out of state relative.  If family members get separated it is a way for others to help get them back together.

Based on what we’ve heard about evacuations, we know our pets may not be able to stay with us but if they can, they likely need to be in a kennel and/or on a leash. Everyone is scared so if you can grab the kennel, it will be a familiar space for your nervous furry friend.

If Disaster Strikes

Many victims of these disasters have lost everything. Homes, cars, clothing, and paperwork can be replaced, but you and your family cannot. Get your family to safety first. If you have the presence of mind as you’re leaving your home, grab the big red binder and USB card of trust and estate documents from Kinghorn Heritage as well as your Docubank card so doctors can access healthcare documents if needed. If you can’t bring the whole binder with you, at least pull out the important documents (e.g., birth and marriage certificates, passports, social security cards) behind the Location Lists tab. While it’s not everything you would need to rebuild, it is a good start.

It’s tough to say what we would take in case of disaster, which is why we recommend planning and preparing for the worst. It’s better to take too much and head for safety than be paralyzed by fear when you need to evacuate.

Sponsor of the Tucson SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options Guide.  

Connect with us today to learn more and say
"I saw you in SPOTLIGHT!" 

https://heritagelawaz.com/
(520) 529-4000

Make Yourself At Home In Tucson Arizona with Long Realty Services

Su Swanne, Realtor - GRI, CSHP, SRES

Graduate, Realtor Institute

Certified Senior Housing Professional

Senior Real Estate Specialist

520-248-6297

Make Yourself at Home in Tucson

The Season of Light is approaching with rapid pace. It seems it was only a fews days ago we were anticipating a long weekend with family and friends for a feast. During this season I like to focus on the Winter Solstice which begins the Yuletide, as it was known to the Anglo-Saxons of Britain - it must be because of my heritage as 91% Irish, Scottish, and English! The Winter Solstice is the first day of Yuletide, with 12th Night being Wassail night, and what we’ve come to celebrate as New Year’s Eve. Based on, and borrowed from Yuletide we have Christmastide, with Christmas Day as the first day, and Epiphany on January 6 as the 12th day of Christmas. Many of our traditions of this holiday season combine elements from both celebrations. Other celebrations this time of year also focus on the theme of Light. Light makes things visible and makes things clear so we can see our way. I wish everyone the Joy of Light as we move into a new year, and maybe a new way of seeing things.

“May your heart embrace the return of the Light!”

A Word About Real Estate in Tucson

• Do you hang holiday lights on your house and shrubs, fences and trees? Did you know there are businesses that can do that for you? Check out We Hang Christmas Lights for some ideas. And if you are a true Do-It-Yourselfer, there are many websites that offer instructions on how to put lights on your house and in your yard. Just Google “hanging Christmas lights”! And if you ARE doing it yourself, try to avoid damaging anything that might need repairs later, when you get ready to sell.

• Most everyone is busy between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, and most people don’t think about buying or selling a house during this time. BUT sometimes it is necessary. Do you know of someone I should speak to who could use my help? If so, Message Me at 520-248-6297.
• Curious about this month’s Housing Report? Want to know where your house might be valued? Check it out on my website. Just enter your address and see from three perspectives what your house could be worth.
• BRAND NEW LISTING! - Six acres with large outbuildings, $95,000, near Sahuarita. Are you an artist who is looking for a studio, or a sculptor/metal worker looking for a place to create your masterpieces? Do you have a landscaping business that needs a lot of storage for tools of the trade? This property is rural, and also has income potential. Go to the Public MLS Website and enter MLS#21831907. Then Call Me!!!

A Word About Seniors

• The holidays can be a source of sadness and depression for Seniors. Visiting Angels, a home care organization, has put together a list of classic Christmas movies, TV shows, and radio shows that might brighten a Senior’s day.
• You can Be A Santa to a Senior here in Tucson. Click the link to find gift tree locations. Deadline is December 17, 2018.
• Music turns on the part of the brain responsible for memory, motor control, timing, language, and emotions. The songs of the season that are familiar to Seniors can lift their spirits. A family sing-a-long could be just the thing to bring Joy to a loved one.
• Stay tuned for an announcement about the Senior Seminars I am planning for 2019. The first phase has been initiated; details to come!

A Word About Me - Su Swanne, GRI!

As of December 13 I have completed my year-long journey to receive my Graduate, Realtor Institute - GRI designation. This is a national designation (National Association of Realtors) that demonstrates a  commitment to the highest ethical standards in serving clients and customers, and a higher level of professional service through training and education. I am proud to have the opportunity to serve my clients with the increased knowledge and skill this education has afforded me.

A Word About Events in Tucson

• A complete list of Holiday Light displays this season can be found at Holiday Lights in Tucson 2018 - Tohono Chul Park, Tucson Botanical Gardens, Winterhaven, Lights of the World, and more !
• December 16, 2018 - Parade of Lights and Festival, Downtown
• Through January 16, visit the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures to see the miniature displays of Christmas Around the World and Throughout Time.
• For some “live” entertainment, how about the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Revue at Gaslight Music Hall! Visit TucsonTopia for times and tickets.
• If you’re a hockey fan, the Tucson Roadrunners will be back in town on December 28 for their home schedule.

“The Light Shines in the Darkness and the Darkness Has Not Overcome It.” John 1:5

What Is The Cost Of Dying?

You’ve worked hard your whole life and are enjoying your retirement. Your financial planner and Tucson estate planning attorney have worked together to ensure you have living expenses covered by pensions and retirement investments, and when the time comes, you’re able to afford the cost of dying to pay medical and funeral expenses.

Cost of Dying and Cost of Living

Not surprising, the cost of dying in each state is in direct correlation to the cost of living. For example, Mississippi is the least expensive state in which to die at an average funeral cost of $5,166 versus the national median of $6,078. It should come as no surprise that Mississippi also has the lowest cost of living. [Source]

In Arizona, the cost of living is just about 2% less than the national average, while healthcare is about 1% more and housing is 2.8% under the average. [Source]  The average out-of-pocket, end-of-life medical expenses are $11,618, while the average funeral expenses are $6,078. [Source] Without proper planning, these expenses can leave your family in debt, which makes it important to have an estate plan in place.

This is in contrast to the most expensive place to live and die – Hawaii. While it’s a beautiful state to visit, the cost of dying is the highest in the nation, nearly double our home state. Funeral costs are an average of $11,408 and the end-of-life care average is $21,807.

Whether you’re in Arizona, Hawaii, or another state, it’s important to plan ahead so your family isn’t left paying the debt with proceeds from the sale of your assets.

Impact on Financial and Estate Planning

There is currently a federal estate tax that applies to a relatively small amount of the population—those whose estate is valued over $5.49 million. When it comes to Arizona estate planning, there is no state estate tax or inheritance tax, which can potentially save your heirs thousands of dollars. We encourage you to speak to Kinghorn Heritage Law Group to understand how your assets can be protected and end‑of‑life expenses can be covered. In our meeting we will discuss:

• Your current estate plan. Often we meet with people who think they need to have millions of dollars in assets to establish a Trust, so they only have a Will. While a Will is better than no plan at all, a Trust will provide tools for estate preservation and asset protection as well as provisions for disabilities, an important need that often gets overlooked. In addition to a Trust, powers of attorney and living wills are essential parts of an estate plan.
• Your family. We want to create a plan that protects what is most important to you.
• Your wishes. It saves families stress when they understand their loved one’s wishes. If you want your grandson to have your antique golf clubs, then let’s make that part of your plan.

Whether it’s passing down family heirlooms or making sure you can afford the cost of dying, the Kinghorn Heritage team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Sponsor of the SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options Resource Guide 

Visit us online today or call and say "I saw you in SPOTLIGHT!" 
https://heritagelawaz.com/

Make Yourself at Home In Tucson Arizona

Su Swanne, Realtor - GRI, CSHP, SRES

Graduate, Realtor Institute

Certified Senior Housing Professional

Senior Real Estate Specialist

520-248-6297

Make Yourself at Home in Tucson

In this month of November we celebrate and give thanks for the many gifts we have in our lives - our families, loved ones who have passed, our Veterans, our health, our free elections, and those who serve us in many ways that we often overlook and fail to acknowledge. This month I am grateful to have a new roof on my house, and my truck in good repair, and for those who made all that happen; I’m grateful to have my partner and my elder friends, and the many opportunities to serve others.

A Word About Real Estate in Tucson

Housing inventory remains low while the prices continue to rise. The median price of homes in Tucson stands at $211,845, a 7% increase over the same month last year. If you have been thinking about selling your home, consider that the value of your home has also increased and it is still a seller’s market up to $350,000-$400,000. To see a complete report for the Tucson housing market, visit my website. For any questions you might have about the value of your home, invite me for a no-obligation consultation.

A Word About Seniors

• The Walk for Alzheimer’s took place on November 10, and raised nearly $258,000 toward their goal of $290,000. If you have someone in your family, or you know of someone who is challenged by the disease of Alzheimer’s, contact the Pima County Office on Aging (PCOA) - (520) 322-6601 - for information about support groups.

• If you or someone you know is a Senior thinking about downsizing to a smaller home or into a senior retirement community, I invite you to contact me (520-248-6297) for a no-obligation consultation.

• In the future I will be offering workshops and seminars about the issues facing Seniors and how Seniors can plan for their transition to a different way of life. Be on the lookout for announcements of these events!

A Word About Me

Last month I attended the 4th annual Legacy Conference of the Senior Real Estate Institute in Oklahoma City. The theme of the conference was Thinking Outside the Box. As Realtors serving the Senior population we accept the challenge to create DIFFERENT services and value for our customers and clients. Working with Seniors in a sales transaction involves much more than the typical real estate services provided by Realtors. Training as a Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) involves not only knowledge of real estate practice, but also of the psychological and life-phase issues of Seniors in their later years.

A Word About Events in Tucson

• Visit the Holiday Art Marketplace in Tucson Mall, next to Macy’s on the second floor during November and December. If you are looking for Mosaic artwork, visit Piecing It Together, mosaic pieces created by one of my Senior friends. And you better hurry, as she will only be there through the end of November!

• Tucson Food Tour - November 16, 2018 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sample food from at least six restaurants, $55, in advance.

• November 19, 2018 - The Fourth Annual Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner  - Armory Park, 11-3. Donations for food and volunteers to cook and serve are needed. If you would like to participate in this event for the Tucson community, go to Tucson.com for more information.

• November 22, 2018 - Thanksgiving Day - Several Tucson restaurants will be offering Thanksgiving meals. If you don’t want to cook you may want to dine out at one of these fine restaurants! Go to this link for more information.

"Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life

is the foundation for all abundance."  Eckhart Tolle

Sponsor of the SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options Tucson Guide

Visit us today and say "I Saw You In SPOTLIGHT!"

LIVE TO BE 100 ~ Plan On It!

Toby Parks

Senior Real Estate Specialist, SRES

(520) 310-0122

tparksaz@gmail.com 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Toby Parks, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Toby Parks

Senior Real Estate Specialist, SRES

(520) 310-0122

tparksaz@gmail.com 

As a second generation, Arizona native and University of Arizona grad (GO CATS!) living in Tucson, my family and I have served this community for many years. I bring a wealth of insight and expertise about buying and selling real estate in Southern Arizona. Whether it's guiding a family while they consider options for their aging parents or helping a Senior age in place, I can help. If you're looking for a special pocket area on a golf course or want to live near the Loop, I can help. 

My knowledge about schools, local things to do, restaurants, shopping, etc. will guide you to the perfect neighborhood.
Hiking Sabino Canyon and digging in the dirt planting my spring and fall vegetable garden are two of my very favorite things to do. 

It may be hard to believe, but not all real estate agents are familiar with their local market. I live, work, invest and play in our community. I've built a reputation I'm proud of. Let me help you with your real estate needs. 

Your real estate referrals will be professionally handled and greatly appreciated!

Sponsor of the SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options Guide.  Visit us online today and say "I saw you in SPOTLIGHT!"

www.tobysellstucsonhomes.com 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Southern Arizona Eldercare

We are pleased to announce our newest advertiser in the Tucson SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options Resource Guide

Established in January 2016, Southern Arizona Eldercare has a solid reputation and is a respected agency in the world of in-home care.  

We started the company with the intent of providing ethical and superior services, and is exactly what we do. As a licensed in-home care provider, Southern Arizona Eldercare truly understands the value of human interaction and communication. 

With a complete staff of professional and trained caregivers, we are here to provide support for you and your family, whatever the situation.

Visit us today online and say "I saw you in SPOTLIGHT"

https://southernarizonaeldercare.com/

Make Yourself at Home In Tucson!

Su Swanne, Realtor - GRI, CSHP, SRES

Graduate, Realtor Institute

Certified Senior Housing Professional

Senior Real Estate Specialist

520-248-6297

Pictured here are French Marigolds - Marigolds are the Birth Flower for October. I remember my mother planting some of these in her garden when I was a kid. They have a most interesting scent; I could almost smell them as I was loading them onto the page! Marigolds of all varieties are great plants to brighten your Fall garden. If you are preparing your home for sale, consider using them to give a bright “punch” to your landscape. And CALL ME to arrange a listing appointment!

A Word About Real Estate in Tucson

The Housing Report on my webpage can give you some insight about the current value of your home. If you are thinking about moving up or moving away, you can get a close idea of how much money you could get for your home. If you like to see the numbers and graphs of the current statistics, just go to my website and enter your information. You might be surprised! Many of the homes that were under water a couple of years ago are now back to the place where they were before the downward housing spiral. Did You Know that you can subscribe to the monthly housing report and receive it in your email inbox automatically?

The Snowbirds are heading back this way as temperatures drop in the northern and northeastern states. The population in Tucson increases every year, and so does the desire to find a place to stay, or even buy a second home. If you know of someone who visits each year, and who has in mind a purchase, I would appreciate a referral to help them find exactly the right place.

Lookin’ For A Home?

A Word About Downsizing

Did I mention that I have downsized from a fifth-floor condo to a 25-foot travel trailer? That was 760 square feet to 200 square feet. I lived in that trailer for seven years. If you have any questions about downsizing, I have some answers! Sometimes folks want to downsize because they no longer want to manage a large home (and they might want to travel in an RV, or not!) Some folks find themselves in a situation where they must accommodate changes in their health and lifestyle. Whatever the reason, I can help in making the transition. Call me for a confidential, no-obligation consultation about selling your current home, and moving into a new situation.

A Word About Seniors

I just learned about a transportation service that assists Seniors to get around without needing a smartphone. The service is called GoGoGrandparent and it connects Seniors with drivers for Lyft and Uber without the confusion of looking for an app and becoming proficient with it. You can get the rides you need for doctor visits, shopping, hair salons, etc. by calling the number and creating an account. Although it’s been around for a couple of years, I just discovered it, so I wanted to draw your attention it. Now, there’s no reason for Seniors to not be able to keep moving!

Sign Up Now… for the Alzheimer’s Walk on November 10, 2018 at Reid’s Park  in Tucson. Contact Nadine Hanson at 520-322-6601 - nahanson@alz.org to register or volunteer. The truth is...

• 1 in 3 Seniors die with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
• Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States.
• 5.7 Million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and this figure is estimated to increase to 14 Million by 2050.
• Nearly ⅔ of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.

A Word About Me

This month I am heading to Oklahoma City, OK to attend the 4th Annual Conference for Certified Senior Housing Professionals (CSHP), sponsored by the Senior Real Estate Institute. As I only received my designation of CSHP back in June,I look forward to meeting other Real Estate Professionals who assist Seniors through some of their more challenging phases of life. I’m excited about learning new ways of providing excellent services to my clients. I will report back in my next update.