Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

As a seller, your to-do list is already pretty sizable by the time the home inspection comes around. As you can guess, the home inspection can be quite the point of contention for many real estate deals. If the inspection comes up with some problems, what fixes are mandatory after a home inspection? And, who is responsible for them?What is the Seller Responsible for Fixing?In reality, there is no such thing as a mandatory fix. Fixes can vary depending on where you live, the state of the market, the buyers lender and the contract negotiated between you and the buyer.Inspections can turn up a list of issues. Some repairs may be deemed necessary to make a home habitable, while others may fall under purely cosmetic issues. An important factor in whats mandatory comes from the buyers lender requirements. Buyers using FHA, VA or USDA loans each have particular requirements. Typically, the lender-required repairs will include anything that might affect living conditions.Some of the most popular categories for fixes that are deemed necessary before move-in are any of the following that constitute as human health hazards or major structural risks:Mold or Water DamagePest or Wildlife InfestationFire or Electrical HazardsToxic or Chemical HazardsStructural IssuesOld or Damaged RoofingWho Should Be Paying for Fixes?Now, the question that is usually the root of problems after a home inspection is: Who has to pay for mandatory fixes?As we mentioned before, it really comes down to a couple different factors like your negotiated contract and the state you live in. For example, as-is contracts in Florida result in the buyer accepting the property in its current condition, meaning they accept all financial responsibility for those fixes.In most cases, as a seller, you would pay for repairs involving any major issues with the structure. At least learn more about what these repairs involve so you can discuss them with a buyer. There are a few ways to appease a buyer without taking on the responsibility for all the requested repairs.Offer some appliances that you planned on parting with as compensation for particular repairs (ex. Washer and dryer, refrigerator)If there are five recommended repairs, offer to complete two of the requests or give credit for the threeIn the same event, you could offer to complete two of the requests and give credit for the threeThe bottom line is: all repairs are negotiable. As a seller, its important to disclose all known issues in good faith and work with the buyer during the inspection process. Make sure you work closely with your real estate agent and attorney to figure out the best option when the time comes.If youre looking for a real estate agent to help you sell your home, HomeSmart has the nearly 20,000 local experts to choose from. Our agents will look out for your best interest and make sure you get the best offer for your home with a speedy and streamlined closing process. Our team is equipped with the proper tools and resources to get your home sold! Find your agent today!

If you're considering moving into a senior living facility, you're looking for a more structured and protected environment where you can continue to live the way you want. Security is an important part of that.The residents of a senior living facility can be more vulnerable in several ways, and the number of people at most senior living facilities can present challenges. A robust set of security features and protocols ensures that the facility you choose will keep you and your fellow residents safe and secure over the years.Key Security Features to Look ForThe following are some of the most crucial security features for a senior living facility. Keep in mind that this is a general list intended for the average resident, so if there's something about your personal circumstances that might require special care, you might have other features to add to the list.A Perimeter Access Control SystemYou don't want unknown and unauthorized people entering the facility, which is why a perimeter access control system is a must. These systems usually take the form of key cards or biometric access to various parts of the facility.This protects not only the well-being and property of the residents but also their privacy. Even if a visitor is authorized to be at the facility, a good access control system will keep them out of areas they shouldn't be in.A Remote Surveillance SystemStaff and supervisors can't be everywhere all the time. This is why a video camera system is of vital importance. Video surveillance allows for remote monitoring, and can allow staff to quickly intervene to assist or protect the residents.However, there's a trade-off between security and privacy. A senior living facility should at least have video surveillance in public areas. Whether you'd want a facility where rooms are monitored is a personal choice. Room monitoring allows for staff to quickly help a resident in distress, but may be too intrusive for some residents.An Emergency Response SystemIn the event that a resident experiencing a medical event needing immediate response, it's crucial that there be a way for that resident or others nearby to quickly alert staff. Frequently, this will be a button or object that each person wears or carries, a device or pendant.Technological advances have led to automated emergency response systems as well. For example, some senior living facilities have automated fall detection software that can alert staff to a resident who has fallen and may be unable to communicate at the time.Strong Emergency Preparedness and Response ProtocolSenior residents often time have mobility issues, which means that emergencies that require evacuation are extra challenging. In addition, some residents may have cognitive issues that can further complicate those situations. It's important that a facility have strong plans in place for these circumstances.A senior living facility should have a robust plan in place for dealing with any emergencies that require evacuation or quarantine. Residents should have gone through drills to help them understand in advance how to act, and the facility should have extensive lists highlighting all residents who may need extra assistance for any reason.Proper Background Checks and Training For StaffThis can sometimes be overlooked compared with more visible forms of security like video cameras or door access controls. But making sure that the staff of a senior living facility is vetted and trained is absolutely vital.The majority of senior living facility staff are attentive, conscientious workers. But some bad apples do exist. Senior residents are a vulnerable population in many ways, and an unscrupulous staff member can steal from or abuse residents if not weeded out.Training is also important, as even well-meaning staff can fail to properly help and support residents if not given proper training. A number of certifications and accreditations exist that demonstrate a facility and staff are properly trained.Other Important Features to Look for in a Senior Living FacilitySecurity is of utmost importance when choosing a facility. But there are other considerations that may weigh just as heavily in your decision-making. Some other key factors might include:Independence LevelsFacilities run the spectrum from those that allow a great deal of freedom to residents to those that emphasize protection and supervision. Knowing the type of experience you're looking for will lead to a happier time there.Programs and ActivitiesSome facilities have a wide range of activities and programs for their residents, creating opportunities for friendships with other residents to form and for residents to find constructive and pleasant ways to fill their days. If that type of engagement is important to you, make sure to pick out a facility that emphasizes this aspect.Expert Medical CareIf you have a particular medical condition that might necessitate special care, be sure to look into the medical care these facilities offer. Some facilities have specialized equipment and licensed staff on hand to treat certain conditions, which might be critical for you.Amenities and Quality of FacilitiesSome facilities can be luxurious and heavy on amenities, including technology, leisure activities and fitness options. Others are more reserved and offer less in the way of bonus features. Depending on how important such things are to you, this could be a key factor in your decision. Frequently, amenities and high quality go hand in hand with price, which is the next consideration.PricingThe reality is that everyone has a budget, and senior living facilities span a wide range of prices. You'll need to weigh your financial means and calculate how long you'd be able to afford to stay in a given facility with your current assets. Most senior residents aren't going to be able to increase their earning power or assets in a significant way, so determining whether a facility fits your budget is crucial.Choosing a senior living facility is a life-changing decision, and it's important to know what to look for before investigating your options. Security is one of the foremost elements of a good facility, and understanding how to evaluate a facility's security level and features will put you in a position to make the best choice possible when choosing your next home.

We are the experts in Senior Care in Sarasota, FLWhy is a "Comfort Keeper" Better Than Just A Caregiver?There are plenty of people who can become a caregiver; only a select few can achieve the status of becoming a Comfort Keeper.We believe you and your loved ones deserve nothing less than the most compassionate, capable, and educated of care providers for your homecare needs. A Comfort Keeper is more than just a caregiver. In fact, only 1 in 30 caregivers who call us for employment actually become a Comfort Keeper.Rather than the state requirements most at home healthcare agencies use we go much further with extensive background research which includes credit checks, nationwide and local criminal checks, driving checks, comprehensive employment checks, and drug testing. Our rigorous screening process is only the beginning. Each individual selected to be part of our team receives both CPR and Alzheimers training. In addition, they are required to undergo thorough caregiver training that is second to none. After we have covered their foundation training our Comfort Keepers are then trained in Interactive Caregiving.Comfort Keepers has formalized and developed this program and we consider this knowledge to be a critical aspect of care. An interactive caregiver understands the importance of interacting with seniors in physical, mental and social activities thereby cultivating mental vitality and emotional well-being.To ensure that our unsurpassed quality of care is maintained over the span of a Comfort Keepers employment, Comfort Keepers conducts annual caregiving skill evaluations as well as annual background checks and random drug testing. Our ongoing training and education program is headed up by Co-Owner, Charlotte Jones, RN, MS, BSN, CDP, CADDCT, a Certified Dementia Practitioner who works tirelessly to ensure each individual Comfort Keeper receives the most comprehensive training available. Her contribution is one of the many reasons Comfort Keepers Sarasota can give it's clients the highest level of in-home care available in Sarasota.As critical as it is to know how to do the job, knowing the job just isnt quite enough. Our Comfort Keepers are exceptional because each one must pass not only our psychological behavioral survey, but also what we call the lovability test. We hold our employees to the highest possible competency standards, but if we dont sense a warm, teddy-bear heart, theyre not employed by Comfort Keepers. We only accept the most caring, compassionate people to work for our organization. This makes us unique and a better choice for you or your loved one. There are plenty of people who can become a caregiver; only a select few can achieve the status of becoming a Comfort Keeper.We only hire our caregivers as employees and never as independent contractors. This important, and somewhat unique, approach offers the ultimate peace of mind and protection for you and your loved ones. People don't realize the potentially huge liabilities and costs they take on with people in their homes that are not direct employees of the company. (20 Questions to Ask Potential Caregivers) Comfort Keepers supervises bonds, insures, and provides Workmans Compensation for our employees. We take care of the payroll taxes so you will not become the accidental employer. Comfort Keepers eliminates the worries of possible unforeseen tax penalties and legal fees that can arise if you select an independent contractor to provide homecare.Consistency of Care is our goal. It can be frustrating having a revolving door of caregivers. We understand having the same caregivers is key to having a good relationship. Our Comfort Keepers are long-term. Comfort Keepers has been here for 15 years and so have many of our employees. We are proud that we have secured individuals who have made a career out of caring for you and your loved ones as a Comfort Keeper. (Hear from some of our Comfort Keepers)Our comprehensive approach to hiring and employing the very best our community has to offer is quite simply head and shoulders above other home healthcare agencies in the Sarasota, FL area.We Set the Standard for At Home Healthcare Agencies in SarasotaComfort Keepers knows that every client is a unique individual with unique care needs and situations. Quality home care assessments by Care Managers are the key. We design a plan of care tailored to each individual clients needs and situation that can change as their needs change. Our Case Manager's regular visits ensure we keep up with our clients' changing needs. We take the time to get to know the individuals personality and interests so we can match our Comfort Keepers accordingly. Furthermore, we develop each clients program to help them to be mentally and physically challenged at a level just right for them.Comfort Keepers adjusts to your schedule. We know that flexibility is best for our clients, so whether it is a few hours a week, 24/7 care, or anything in between Comfort Keepers can meet your needs. Our Administration receives constant feedback from our Comfort Keepers and we keep all parties informed of any possible concerns of any mental or physical changes.Our homecare professionals are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Every time you contact us, even after regular business hours, you will always reach a live person. This insures that you will always receive quality information no matter when you call.Comfort Keepers ensures you or your loved one have consistency of the absolute highest level of care by providing on-going reassessment of each client. Care tailored to your specific needs and personality is the best care because it is designed specifically for you!

For more information on the author, DeSoto Palms, CLICK HERE!When it comes time to select an assisted living facility for your family members, the choice can be tough. However, there are five questions that you should always ask to ensure that you find the best possible place for your loved one.1. What Types Of Apartments Do You Have Available?Many assisted living facilities offer different kinds of apartments, and some can have longer waitlists than others. Private apartments tend to have the longest waits, for instance, while others may have only a limited number available for Medicaid residents. Consider if you are able to wait for an apartment to become available or if your loved one is willing to potentially share a buddy suite with another resident, which may shorten the wait.2. What Services Are Included?Another question you should ask is about the services included in the cost. For instance, utilities, internet, and cable may be covered, but additional services may require extra money. For example, housekeeping may not be covered under rent, and meal plans may need to be purchased in some assisted living facilities if the resident isn't going to be preparing their own meals. You should consider if your loved one has any impairments that make housekeeping or cooking more difficult. According to US News, 20% of residents in assisted living facilities have no impairment and more than one-third have only mild cognitive impairments that can make some things more difficult. Finding out about these specific services can help you avoid any surprises in the future.3. Do You Offer Transportation or Activities?You should also ask if the assisted living facility offers transportation services. Some will offer transport to stores, bands, or certain doctors offices, while others may use transportation vouchers when your loved one needs to go somewhere not on the usual route. If your loved one still drives, you should make sure there is a safe place for them to park.As for activities, you want to make sure that bingo isn't the only thing being offered. Boredom is a serious problem and it can lead to many seniors feeling unfulfilled or lonely. Be sure that there is a variety of activities offered, and that your loved one will have a wide range of things to keep them social and active.4. Which Hospital Do You Use For Emergency?If you have multiple hospitals in your area, you'll want to check and see which one the assisted living facility uses. This will give you an idea of whether or not their proffered doctor has access there and it can also let you know where to go if an emergency does happen.5. When Can I Visit?The best assisted living facility will never object to you coming in to visit your loved one, and there should always be full transparency every step of the way. You should be able to visit at any time within reason so that you can get a feel for the atmosphere, the other residents, and the comfort level that is provided.These five questions should always be asked when looking for the right assisted living facility for your loved one. While there are many others, these five are some of the most important and can help ensure that your loved one is satisfied, cared for, and comfortable.