Page 61 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2026 - Online Magazine

SENIOR RESOURCES

The Questions We Don’t Always Think To Ask

Before the Next Chapter

Beyond the House: What to Consider Before Life Makes the Decision for You
by Sheila Jordan, REALTOR®, Sheila Jordan Realty Group

n the previous articles of this series, we explored
whether it makes sense to stay or move, how to
Irightsize without becoming overwhelmed, and
how to choose a property that supports the life you
actually want to live.

This is the first of two articles regarding the
important questions we should ask when we are
facing a new chapter.

Most people know they should probably speak with
a financial advisor, an attorney, possibly family and
friends, and a trusted real estate professional before
making a major transition. Those conversations
are important. But even with good professional
and personal guidance, some practical questions
frequently go unasked.

Some of the most important issues are not obvious
until they become urgent. Thinking about them now
can prevent confusion, unnecessary expense, and property matters. Different family members may
rushed decisions later. have different strengths, availability, and comfort
levels.
Are your legal documents connected to a
workable plan? The ownership of the property should also be
reviewed. Life changes over time. A spouse may
Many people have a will, power of attorney, trust, pass away, a trust may be created, or an old deed
medical directive, or other important documents may no longer reflect the owner’s current wishes.
safely stored away. That is a wise first step, but a Questions involving title, liens, trusts, deceased
signed document and a workable plan are not
always the same thing.
Does the person you have chosen know where
the documents are located? Do they understand
your wishes regarding the home? Could they
find the deed, mortgage information, insurance
policy, property-tax records, utility accounts,
alarm codes, and important passwords?
It is also worth considering whether the person
best suited to make medical decisions is the
same person who should manage financial or

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