IntroducingtheSeniorServicesTeam
The Service You Deserve The Knowledge You Need The Results You Desire
Introducing: Fazendin Realtors
Founded in 1965, Fazendin Realtors is proud to be Minnesota’s premier independent family-owned residential real estate company.
Our goal is not to be the biggest; our goal is to be the best.
We are approximately 50 people strong; 40 agents and 10 support staff. Big enough to have all the necessary resources, yet small enough to provide our clients with personal and customized service. We are proud to have served the Twin Cities Metro area for over 60 years. We know how to represent buyers and sellers, at all price levels, in all markets.
Our Promise to You
Fazendin Realtors is an agent-centric brokerage emphasizing integrity, knowledge, and professionalism. We deliver superior results and service because our agents and staff are fiercely committed to the benefit of our clients.
The Service You Deserve
Fazendin Realtors is a community of Realtors ® and staff personally committed to the highest level of service through customization. We recognize that every client and every property is unique.
The Knowledge You Need
We are committed to continually increasing our industry knowledge. The information and expertise we possess are always available to our clients in a timely manner.
The Results You Desire
Our unwavering dedication to service and expert knowledge consistently provides our clients with superior results.
We’re Local.
While our office is located in Wayzata, Fazendin Realtors proudly services the entire Twin Cities metro area. Our agents are well versed in each neighborhood’s market and are a valued resource and tour guide to all things Minnesota.
Over the past decade, we have been involved in thousands of transactions. Here are just some of the metro areas in which we’ve had the pleasure of assisting clients with their home sales and home purchases:
• Albertville
• Andover
• Annandale
• Anoka
• Apple Valley
• Arden Hills
• Bayport
• Belle Plaine
• Big Lake
• Blaine
• Bloomington
• Bradford Township
• Brooklyn Center
• Brooklyn Park
• Buffalo
• Burns Township
• Burnsville
• Cannon Falls
• Carver
• Centerville
• Champlin
• Chanhassen
• Chaska
• Circle Pines
• Cokato
• Columbia Heights
• Corcoran
• Corinna Township
• Coon Rapids
• Cottage Grove
• Crystal
• Delano
• Deephaven
• Duluth
• Eagan
• Eden Prairie
• Edina
• Elgin
• Elko / New Market
• Elk River
• Excelsior
• Farmington
• Faribault
• Foley
• Forest Lake
• Fridley
• Golden Valley
• Greenfield
• Greenwood
• Hamburg
• Hamel
• Ham Lake
• Hanover
• Helen Township
• Hopkins
• Howard Lake
• Hutchinson
• Independence
• Inver Grove Heights
• Jordan
• Lakeland
• Lakeville
• Lilydale
• Lino Lakes
• Little Canada
• Long Lake
• Mayer
• Mahtomedi
• Maple Grove
• Maple Plain
• Maplewood
• May Township
• McGregor
• Medicine Lake
• Medina
• Mendota Heights
• Minneapolis
• Minnetonka
• Minnetonka Beach
• Minnetrista
• Monticello
• Moose Lake
• Mound
• Mounds View
• New Brighton
• New Hope
• New Prague
• North Branch
• North St. Paul
• Norwood
• Nowthen
• Oakdale
• Orono
• Orrock
• Osseo
• Otsego
• Oxford Township
• Pengilly
• Pine City
• Plato
• Plymouth
• Princeton
• Prior Lake
• Ramsey
• Red Wing
• Richfield
• Robbinsdale
• Rockford
• Rogers
• Rosemount
• Roseville
• Saint Anthony
• Saint Bonifacius
• Saint Louis Park
• Saint Michael
• St. Paul
• Savage
• Scandia
• Shakopee
• Shoreview
• Shorewood
• South St. Paul
• Spring Park
• Stillwater
• Sunfish Lake
• Tonka Bay
• Vadnais Heights
• Victoria
• Waconia
• Watertown
• Waverly
• Wayzata
• West St. Paul
• White Bear Lake
• Whited Township
• Winsted
• Woodbury
• Woodland
• Young America
• Zimmerman
Fazendin Realtors’ Senior Services
Fazendin Realtors offers genuine and compassionate personalized assistance for those in their later years navigating life’s transitions. Through our Senior Services Team, individuals and families in the 55+ community will receive the support, professionalism, and guidance needed to successfully navigate the home sale process as they transition to life’s next home.
Through our Senior Services offerings, you’ll have a Real Estate Professional there for you from start to finish and beyond. Your agent will be your single point of contact throughout the transition - offering advice, advocating for your needs, providing valuable referrals to other needed industry professionals, assisting in coordinating all of the moving pieces in the home sale, and more.
Benefits of Fazendin Realtors’
Senior Services:
• Professional Real Estate Representation from a Real Estate Professional specifically trained to assist those in life’s later stages
• Pre-Home Sale Recommendations & Referrals
- Suggestions for Repairs and Improvements
- Painting, Landscaping, Home Repair, and Other Professional Services Vendor Recommendations
- De-Cluttering and Organizational Tips
- Referrals for Estate and Yard Sale Assistance
• Home Staging Consultation
• Professional and Comprehensive Home Marketing
• Household Goods Moving Service Referral
• Frequent Communications to All Involved, Ensuring the Utmost Transparency Throughout the Entire Process
Meet the Senior Services Team
Our Relocation Director has hand-selected a group of our top-producing real estate professionals and overseen their Seniors-specific training. The Senior Services Team has been gathered together to best serve the needs of our elderly clients. This group’s mission is to truly raise the bar on the industry’s standard level of service provided to transitioning senior citizens.
Their approach to every client interaction involves a positive attitude, patience, a detail-oriented system that ensures no box is overlooked, and transparency throughout the home-buying and home-selling process. Every member of the Senior Services team has completed a training curriculum enabling them to meet the unique needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties. These agents are prepared to approach mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.
Natalie Williams Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Pam Sheehan Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Jill Amundson Realtor®
Sandra Russen Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Emily Wells Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Tim McIntosh Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Jan Anderson Realtor® Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Sarah Showalter Realtor®
Introducing Senior Services Team Member:
Pam Sheehan
Opening the Door to Your Next Move
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Accredited Buyers’ Representative (ABR) 952-221-8333 | psheehan@fazhomes.com
Step into your next real estate journey with Pam Sheehan, where every interaction begins with her signature warm smile and unwavering attention.n.
As a seasoned Realtor® at Fazendin, Pam brings a wealth of experience to help her clients achieve their real estate goals. She’s committed to understanding each client’s unique needs and guides them through the buying or selling process providing knowledge and enthusiasm. Pam knows the stress that can come with real estate transactions, which is why she focuses on clear communication and diligent follow-up to ensure a smooth, surprise-free experience.
Pam has consistently earned many rewards and has also been recognized as a “Super Agent” for nine consecutive years by *Mpls. St. Paul* and *Twin Cities Business* magazines. Her unmatched dedication to superior service, expertise, persistence, and a results-driven approach ensure that her clients achieve the results they desire.
Outside of her real estate endeavors, Pam finds joy in her Deephaven home, where she lives with her husband Kelly. Her personal interests range from health and wellness to music, travel, fur babies, and cherished moments with family.
Pam is truly honored to stand by your side, fully committed to helping you navigate every step of your real estate journey and achieve your goals.
Let Pam Sheehan Open the Door to Your Next Move and Become Your Real Estate Agent for Life.
Awards Pam Sheehan has earned:
Her Story:
Minnesota is home.
Before entering the real estate industry, Natalie worked in Development for Higher Education. She cherished the relationships she built with donors and found great satisfaction in working in a vibrant community of scholarship and learning. Natalie has an undergraduate degree from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California.
To truly understand her client’s needs, Natalie believes it is critical to listen more than she speaks. She knows the importance of educating her clients about the market while sharing her joy for real estate and love for the Twin Cities.
Currently, Natalie lives in Orono with her husband, Ross, and three children. She is an active Orono resident, both in the local schools and as a former appointed Orono Park Commissioner. When not providing excellent service to her clients, Natalie can be found out running after her kids, chasing down their dog Trudy or on the local trails training for her next race. Together with her family, she gardens, bikes, hikes, boats, camps, fishes and on the coldest winter days reminds herself to slow-down her life and enjoy a good book by the fire.
Make
Awards Natalie Willliams has earned:
Here’s her story:
Introducing Senior Services Team Member: Sarah Showalter
Helping You Start the Next Chapter of Your Story
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) 952-237-3169 | sarah@fazhomes.com
Everyone has a story. It’s fluid and evolving but sometimes you can see the plot right from the beginning. And so it was with me building a career in real estate. Growing up reading the housing section of the paper I started my “study” of the real estate market at a young age. Intrigued by the benefits of owning real estate, I purchased my first home when I was 23 and leveraged myself by taking on a roommate. I still say buying that house was best purchase I ever made as I was nearly able to pay off law school when I later sold the home.
I’m happy now to be in a position to be able to use my experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to help others make their own smart move in the real estate market – whether it is the purchase of that first home, relocating, gaining space for a growing family, selling the empty nest to buy a cozy condo or the strategic pursuit of investment properties.
As a lawyer I developed a keen attention to detail while maintaining the 30,000 foot view so not to lose sight of the forest through the trees. What this means in my real estate practice is that I’ve got my eye on the details so you get the result you are looking for without the worry. With 13 years of legal experience, including 7 years of managing complex civil litigation and endless hours of negotiations, I am accustomed to striving for and meeting high expectations. I am committed to professionalism, quality, high ethical standards and excellent service. This is why I joined Fazendin Realtors® and this is why I believe I am the Realtor® you’ll want in your corner going the extra mile to ensure the best possible result in your real estate transaction, whether as a seller or a buyer.
As a wife, mother of three busy children, and active Wayzata resident, I am truly enjoying the current chapter in my story. Besides enjoying time with my family I like to cook, read, travel and exercise in my free time.
Contact me to discuss how I can put my experience, commitment and enthusiasm to work for you. I am eager to help you find where the next chapter of your story begins.
Awards Sarah Showalter has earned:
Big League Service
Introducing Senior Services Team Member:
Tim McIntosh
Big League Service
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Accredited Buyers’ Representative (ABR) 813-323-1822 | tim@fazhomes.com
Tim was born and raised in the Twin Cities. He attended Hopkins High School and the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities, where he was a member of the Gopher Baseball team. After college, Tim signed a professional baseball contract with the Milwaukee Brewers. He played professionally for 12 years, finishing his big-league playing career with the 1996 World Series Champion, the New York Yankees.
California was home for 25 years. There, Tim raised 2 daughters, who now both reside in San Diego. After his baseball playing days were over, he took a swing at Commercial Real Estate and winemaking before returning to the game as a Professional Scout for the Los Angeles Angels.
Tim returned to his roots in the Twin Cities in 2013, continuing in his work for Major League Baseball. Despite his passion and love for the game, over the next few years, the constant travel and time away from family made it clear it was time for a change.
His discipline and passion for evaluating and connecting with players, coaches, and parents have allowed Tim to transition and quickly excel in his residential real estate career. Tim’s ability to simplify what can be an overwhelming process allows Tim to guide his clients toward making great choices and drive results time and time again. His customer-focused approach puts his clients at ease, knowing they have the best person on their team when making a big move.
Tim’s strong foundation of hard work, perseverance, and a winning attitude served him well as a professional baseball player. This same skill set now allows him to outperform others in his real estate “field of play.” His get-after-it personality and ability to embrace technology to connect with clients and collaborate with other real estate professionals are huge assets to both buyers and sellers alike.
Tim currently lives in Golden Valley with his significant other Tracey, whom he reconnected with at his high school reunion, and their dog Frank. In his off time, Tim is an amateur chef and a “want to be” sommelier. Still in love with the game of baseball, Tim continues to dawn the uniform as a member of the Elko Rail Cats townball baseball team.
Tim is proud to work with Fazendin Realtors, a winning team! His level of efficiency, professionalism, knowledge, trust, and confidence are unmatched. Tim would be honored to play a crucial part in your homebuying or selling story!
Whether buying or selling a home, let Tim’s Big-League service deliver the championship results you deserve!
Awards Tim McIntosh has earned:
Emily Wells
Her Story:
Making Your Family’s Move Effortless and Enjoyable
Emily Wells has lived in the vibrant Twin Cities for 17 years. She currently resides in Golden Valley and has a deep appreciation for her local community and its many offerings— from the beautiful lakes and trails to the welcoming neighborhoods.
Emily’s journey into real estate was inspired by her passion for helping others. She is dedicated to guiding clients in finding a place they can truly call home.
Having purchased several homes, Emily understands the challenges and joys that come with buying and selling property. She specializes in assisting a diverse range of clients:
• Helping first-time homebuyers navigate their initial purchase
• Supporting families looking to downsize
• Aiding individuals in finding that perfect second home or investment property
With a master’s degree in education from the University of Minnesota, Emily has strong communication skills and a keen ability to listen to clients’ needs. Her philosophy is simple: listen, support, and make the process enjoyable. She believes that real estate should be a positive experience and strives to ensure that clients feel supported every step of the way.
In addition to her real estate career, Emily actively volunteers with Little League, soccer teams, and church. She’s passionate about fitness, travel, and food, and loves spending time with her three kids and meeting new people.
Emily Wells is excited about the opportunity to help you navigate the real estate market.
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, she’ll do everything she can to make your real estate dreams a reality!
Jill Amundson
Her Story:
Jill Amundson was born and raised in Golden Valley, MN. She attended Robbinsdale Armstrong High School and later attended Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Jill’s passion for real estate began after college. She actively purchased and renovated homes while working in sales and marketing positions within various health care settings. She was always drawn to homes that were “fixer uppers!” Always envisioning what they could become and creating that outcome. From St. Louis Park, Maple Grove, to Minneapolis - townhomes, single family homes, and duplexes were lived in, renovated, and then sold. Jill and her husband, John, have owned duplexes in these Minneapolis neighborhoodsUptown, Kingfield, and Seward. They enjoy owning and managing their investment properties.
The Amundson family, Jill, husband - John, and their two daughters, currently live in Southwest Minneapolis in the Lynnhurst neighborhood. They enjoy living near Lake Harriet, the great walkability to fantastic restaurants, and the numerous bike trails to explore the city. As often as they can, they spend time at their cabin in Alexandria, Minnesota.
Jill is excited to assist you with one of your biggest investments –your home! Whether buying a home or selling your current home, let her experience and passion for real estate work for you!
Awards Jill Amundson has earned:
Jan Anderson
Bringing You Home
Her Story:
Having lived in Colorado, California, Oregon, Kansas, Florida, and now Minnesota since 1988, Jan Anderson learned first-hand how to be well versed in residential real estate. She knows how to meet the specific wants and needs of her clients because she’s been through it! This knowledge allows her to successfully guide her clients in finding the homes to fit their individual needs and lifestyles. Whether searching for a home for your primary or secondary residence, Jan’s unmatched experience in real estate will be a benefit for you as Jan has been involved in real estate transactions all over the world!
Prior to moving to Minnesota, Jan relocated throughout the country while acting as Director of Sales and Marketing for various large corporate employers, so she knows the difficulties of relocation. She knows the importance of having someone negotiate on your behalf and thrives on providing excellent customer service and follow-through. Jan is one of only approximately 1% of agents worldwide to earn her Certification as a Negotiation Expert. So, you know she will have your back!
A licensed Realtor since 2005, Jan is fully engaged in the real estate industry every single day. She is a multiple Diamond Award-Winning agent within Fazendin Realtors, awarded the prestigious Ann Brockhouse Award, listed as a SuperAgent by Minnesota Monthly Magazine, and chosen as the Ninja Agent of the Year for superior client relations, and multiple Agent of the Month awards. She has also been elected to the company’s Realtor Advisory Committee which focuses on constantly improving the client experience at Fazendin Realtors.
“My goal is to think outside of the box to always find creative ways to assist my clients. Whether listing or looking for a home, I enjoy helping both buyers and sellers!”
Jan grew up in Brush, Colorado, attended Colorado State University, and earned a B.S. in Business Administration and Marketing. She is an avid skier, loves animals, grew up riding horses on the family farm and ranch, and spends time attending U of M Gopher Baseball games and sporting events. She and her husband John have a daughter who is a graduate of Wayzata High School and the University of Minnesota. Her husband John works in the U of M Athletic Department. Though not a ‘native’ Gopher, Jan’s heart truly lies with the Maroon and Gold.
Awards Jan Anderson has earned:
Her Story:
Introducing Fazendin Realtors’ Senior Services Team Member:
Sandra Russen
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) 320-226-3217 | russen@fazhomes.com
A seasoned Agent/Broker providing full Real Estate services in the Minneapolis West Metro Communities and West Central Minnesota since 1997.
Throughout her years in the real estate business, Sandra Russen has a robust array of experiences and skill sets with Residential and small Commercial Property sales, Hobby farm and Agricultural Land sales, REO, Distressed Properties and Foreclosures, Estate Sales, and Relocation Services.
Sandra has offered start-to-finish, full time real estate services in the West Central, MN communities of Montevideo and Granite Falls. Her career experiences include: Past Owner/Broker of two RE/MAX Franchises (2004-2014), Broker Associate with RE/MAX Preferred out of Willmar (2014-2017) MN, Hughes Real Estate and Auction (2017-2018), and most recently Owner/Broker of Russen Realty, LLC 2019-2023.
Effective March 1st, 2023, Sandra joined Fazendin Realtors of Wayzata as she transitions her business to the Delano, MN area. Sandra’s primary market areas are Wright County, Carver County, and the western metro of Hennepin County (Delano, Watertown, Maple Plain, Orono, Independence, and surrounding cities). Having established deep ties to her networks in West Central, MN, Sandra continues to provide real estate services with a focus on listings and relocation. Referrals are always appreciated.
Sandra is committed to providing relevant, informative insight to her clients. She stays active and connected in the Real Estate industry through various volunteer service and continued education.
Awards Sandra Russen has earned:
Meet Our Agent’s Support Team
At Fazendin, experience has proven that support for our agents provides you with the highest level of representation possible. Our ownership and management are personally involved in the many problem-solving processes that occur when buying and selling homes. Our team is invested in our client’s success and obtaining the best possible outcome.
R. ANDY FAZENDIN Owner & Broker
TODD URBANSKI Director of Agent Development
DANI BLOEDORN Vice President
MARILYN RICHTER Assistant Sales Manager & Compliance Specialist
LYNN GROLL Relocation Director
SARAH PFEFFER Manager of Finance
ELLEN KOSS Administrative Support Coordinator
IRENE OLEA Marketing Coordinator
BEN TESKE Marketing Manager
Testimonials from Fazendin Realtors’
Senior Clients
“Though we live in Madison, WI we needed to sell our parents’ house in Baxter, MN—6 hours and 400 miles apart. We were referred to Fazendin Realtors through a friend in Madison, and will always be grateful for that referral! Our Fazendin Realtor was the best—always available, always clear and informative with their communication, and always willing to go the extra mile to help us navigate this difficult journey. Even though our agent lives nearly 2 hours away from the property, they never hesitated to make the drive up to meet with us, working around our schedule and the difficulties associated with our Father’s passing. From our first meeting, our agent’s experience and compassion came shining through. Their advice and recommendations were 100% spot on, and they helped us prepare for what was ahead, and told us precisely what needed to be done to prepare the property for sale. They even repeatedly offered to help find local companies to help clean the house and repair minor damage, since we weren’t familiar with those companies in the area. Upon discovering that the newly-installed lock on the front door didn’t function properly, our agent took it upon themself to go find a replacement, install it, and take possession of the keys—which gave us tremendous peace of mind! If that wasn’t an example of someone going “above and beyond,” we don’t know what is— simply amazing! When it came time to close, there were several last-minute glitches that our Fazendin agent helped us navigate, offering sage advice and suggestions. Our agent was simply remarkable throughout the entire process, and we commend their personable, thoughtful, and compassionate approach to his profession! Our agent and Fazendin Realtors have earned our highest recommendation—there aren’t enough stars available for this professional! Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts!”
- Recent Client
We had a couple of referrals for Realtors® and chose our Fazendin Realtor as soon as we met with them. They were not only very easy to work with, but professional and sold my Mom’s house at a price significantly higher than the other Realtors ® discussed. Their advice and narrative on my Mom’s house (which was nice, but needed care) was so charming. My fiance and I are planning on selling both our current homes next year and buying another - and hope our Fazendin agent will be there for us. Thank you for making a difficult journey for my brother and I so much easier and with a better result than we expected.
- Recent Client
As we reflect on the past year, we are reminding of a milestone---selling our home of 39 years. This stressful time became a positive experience for us--thanks to our Realtor and other members of Fazendin Realtors. Not only is our agent experienced, professional, and knowledgeable in th real estate “world”, but also has a great understanding of people. Their delightful sense of humor lightened some difficult moments during the process of finding the right buyer for our home. Our agent was quick to notice the positive qualities of our home and gracious with suggestions for touch ups. They were very diligent with all paperwork. We credit them with a closing that went smoothly. We would definitely recommend our Fazendin Realtor for anybody who is interested in the process of buying or selling a home.
- Recent Client
Loved our Fazendin agent, they did everything to make sure the purchase of a home for my dad went smooth. They went above and beyond to make the process great from start to finish. Thank you.
- Recent Client
Additional Testimonials from Fazendin Realtors’ Senior Clients
After our dad passed away, our Fazendin agent was recommended to us by one of our dad’s neighbors. They made selling the property a breeze during a challenging time. With our agent, the property was marketed in a way that helped us not only get multiple offers, but a great offer. I plan to work with Fazendin again when I buy property this next year. Highly recommend!
- Recent Client
We purchased a townhouse in November with the assistance of Fazendin Realtors. We had been looking for a one level home in the West metro area for two years. Working with another company, nothing had been a right fit. When we selected our Fazendin Realtor ® to represent us it was a positive experience in every way. They exemplify the professional yet personal agent. We found them to be diligent about finding properties to show us, and sensitive to our specific parameters. Our agent was clearly well qualified for the task at hand, and we knew we could trust them to have our best interests in mind. They quickly found a home we felt was “the one” and we submitted a successful bid right away. We especially appreciated the way our agent led us through all the complexities of purchase, as it had been 50 years since we’d bought a house. We are extremely pleased with our new home, and feel we have our agent to thank for it. We can’t imagine anyone could have been a better fit for us!
- Recent Client
My Fazendin Realtor ® helped me sell my family home of 22 years, and find and purchase a smaller place. I knew little of the process of buying and selling homes, but with their knowledge, calm manner, and huge, warm heart, they supported me through the process with relative ease. This agent is a great realtor who takes the time to listen to your wants, needs and concerns. What, to me, is most amazing about this professional, is their added intuitive gift. They had the insight and vision for the right home for me, even before I fully recognized it. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t internally say thanks that I now live in the perfect place for me!
- Recent Client
Our Fazendin agent was excellent at shepherding us through the sale of our house after 36 years of ownership. They were clear about how to present our home at its best and calm through the the showings, offer and inspection process. We loved working with our agent!
- Recent Client
My entire family has worked with Fazendin Realtors for years. Our agent has helped me with three properties so far and I can’t say enough good things about them. Our agent is prompt, responsive, thorough and doesn’t rush you into a decision. They truly want what is best for their clients. I would highly recommend our Fazendin Realtor ® to anyone from first time buyers to those searching for their forever home. They check all of the boxes!
- Recent Client
Additional Testimonials from Fazendin Realtors’ Senior Clients
Our Fazendin agent was a professional and knowledgeable real estate person to work with. Our housing needs began when we decided to sell a home of 30 years and move to another one that was more suitable for our needs as seniors. Our Realtor ® immediately connected us with properties that met our requirements. With each home we looked at, they were always available to meet us and always on time and prepared with the appropriate information on each property. Their response to us, whether it be an e-mail, phone call or other was always immediate. They provided us with other important information for selling and moving in general. It had been 30+ years since we bought or sold a home, so we needed several referrals for professions involved in the sale of our home. Our agent provided a list of inspectors, photographers, stagers, etc. They all proved to be excellent. Our agent’s service never ended at the sale of our home. We required to call them on several items after we moved. Once again, responses came in a timely manner. Our agent is not only a competent real estate person, but easy to work with and is a trustworthy individual. We would have no hesitation to recommend our Fazendin Realtor ® for any real estate needs someone may have or if the need arose again to need a real estate person ourselves, we would immediately call them.
- Recent Client
Thank you so much for the nice drawing of our beloved home of 25 years, and the quick easy sale of our home from the staging to the 2 week sale and closing in 3 weeks. A painful experience was easy with you and the Faz closing team.
- Recent Client
Our Fazendin agent was a pleasure to work with, communicated promptly with any questions and kept us informed with house information/showings almost on a daily basis. Also gave us a beautiful framed sketch of the house at closing that is just a wonderful keepsake being it was my childhood home growing up and my parents’ house for 42 years.
- Recent Client
Our agent was amazing through every step of the process. They made moving after 27 years, something that could have been very stressful into a fun activity. Fazendin is an amazing company as well. Really care about their customers! Could not be more thankful for our experience.
- Recent Client
Advice from an Expert: Joy Loverde Moving Your Parents
What does the move mean?
When parents start talking about moving, it can mean that something is going on. Are they experiencing problems they may not be telling you about? Is the house beginning to be too much? Are they having memory problems? Can they no longer drive and won’t tell you? When a parent brings up moving, you might ask, “What’s the reason behind the move? Is there something you want to tell me?”
It’s a process.
You should anticipate that moving a parent may be a stop-and-start process. Your parent may say, “Okay, I’m moving.” And then they start to get overwhelmed, and they stop. Just because parents mention they’re going to move, it’s often not a nice, straight line; it could take longer than you think and get delayed at any time.
Let your parents feel in charge.
For a parent, moving is also experiencing losses. They’re saying goodbye to routines, friends, neighbors. They’re going into the unknown. It’s scary. And it takes time to be happy with their new home. So, keep them in the driver’s seat by allowing them to make as many decisions as possible. If you move a parent to some place they don’t like, it’s just going to be trouble.
It’s more than just a house move.
Moving your parents doesn’t end when they move homes. They may need new doctors, want to know what the new neighborhood is like, or how they’ll get around - all kinds of questions will need answers.
Joy Loverde, best selling author of The Complete Eldercare Planner, offers thoughts on parents and moving.
Make sure of the legal paperwork.
A parent may say they have all the paperwork to sell their house, but they actually may not. Put eyes on the paperwork needed. If they say everything is in a box, open the box. Then, you’ll know where things are if anything is required.
There will be stress.
You may feel overwhelmed at times. That’s normal and expected. But it’s best not to show that stress by telling everybody, “This is how it’s going to be.” It may seem like a way to handle the stress, but with all the emotions and potential conflict, it can easily backfire.
Find a trusted resource.
Dealing with parents during a move can be complicated. It’s wise to have resources you can trust to help you through it. When I moved my mother, my real estate agent was an invaluable partner. She made everything easier.
Ask other household residents:
• Would you resent this living arrangement?
• How do you think this will change our lives together?
A Sample from the Book The Multi-Generational Questionnaire
Ask an elder law attorney and financial planner:
• Are there tax credits or deductions for this arrangement?
• What adjustments would you have to make to your lifestyle?
• Will you pitch in and help?
• Are you willing to treat this person as a family member, not to be ignored or isolated?
• Discuss with siblings:
• Will you help with the care?
• Will you pitch in when it’s time for me to take a break or if I get sick?
• Are you prepared to contribute financially to this arrangement?
• Ask your elder:
• Do you want to move in and share a household with my family?
• Are there relationship conflicts that need to be resolved before you move in?
• Do you have a pet that will be living with us, too? Can you care for it?
• What are your needs for privacy and alone time?
• Are you prepared to help with any costs?
• Are you comfortable switching doctors if you have to?
• How long are you prepared to live here?
• What additional expenses can be expected to provide care?
• Who should pay for what?
• Should I charge rent or ask for help with groceries?
• If my work situation changes, what are my options to cover the bills?
• Does this living arrangement affect their eligibility for Medicaid?
• Assess the living space:
• Where will my elders sleep? Will someone have to give up their bedroom?
• Will we be able to convert a room into a bedroom? Is there a bathroom nearby?
• Are stairs a problem?
Would it be better to build an addition to the house?
• What assistive devices will be needed (grab bars, raised toilet seats, ramps, etc.)?
• Am I willing to let them decorate parts of the house with their photos and memorabilia?
• Can the home accommodate their furniture?
Ask yourself:
• How is my health? Will I be able to take care of myself as well as my elders?
• How is my relationship with my elders? Is it healthy, or is it problematic?
• Do my elders smoke or drink—and will that be a problem for us?
• Will my significant other and children get the attention they need?
• What are my needs for privacy and alone time?
• Is there a plan to preserve privacy and autonomy for everyone?
• How will this decision affect my personal and professional goals?
• Will my elders need care during the day? If so, how will it be provided?
• Am I good at delegating responsibilities?
• Will my elders have access to a full range of activities outside the home?
• Will we create ways for my elders to contribute to the family and feel needed?
• Am I being realistic about the hours of attention and care this arrangement will entail?
• How comfortable am I helping them with bathing, toileting, or changing an adult brief?
• What are the limits of my ability to care for them in my home?
• Is my family financially and emotionally stable enough to take this on?
10 Ways to Make Downsizing A Bit Easier
If you’re considering moving, downsizing and decluttering can offer a simpler, more secure, lower-stress lifestyle. Downsizing can also present you with a lot to think about. Here are some tips that might make the process a bit less daunting:
1. Start Early
Successful downsizing takes more time than you may realize; starting the process at least two to three months in advance can be a real benefit.
2. Make a Plan
Planning out the steps (with as much detail as possible) will make the process more manageable and help lessen anxiety.
3. Set a Timeline
The plan should include a timeline to ensure tasks are completed in order as the move approaches. The distance of the move may affect the timeframe.
4. Use the New Floor Plan
A floor plan of your new home - even if rough - can help determine what might go where and which pieces fit, and which don’t.
5. Start with “Less”
For a simple guide to think about which might not go to your future home, think “less” - less used, less valuable, less emotional.
6. Discard Duplicates
We all accumulate things. When downsizing, ask whether duplicates can be discarded. Do you need five different types of cooking whisks?
7. Use a “One-Year” Rule
If something hasn’t been used or viewed within the past year, it may be a candidate for being left out of the move.
8. Create “Yes” and “No” Groups
Using sticky notes to label items as “yes” or “no” will help you remember which items you need to take with you.
9. Donate or Discard
Once items have been divided into “yes” or “no” groups, think about which would be wellappreciated donations and which need to be disposed of in other ways.
10. Get help from your friends or family
Friends or family can offer both helping hands and a helpful voice when it comes to downsizing. Involving them early on can make the process easier.
Simple Changes to Make Aging in Place Easier
Many seniors want to age in place, but home modifications can be costly, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, simple, affordable changes can help accommodate their needs.
Bathroom:
• Use a shower chair or bench for easier bathing
• Switch to a handheld showerhead for easy rinsing while seated
• Replace glass enclosures with shatterproof materials for safety
• Install slip-resistant strips on the shower floor instead of mats
• Lever-style faucets are easier for older hands to turn
Bedroom:
• An adjustable bed can add comfort and ease of access
• Motion-sensor night lights can benefit nocturnal risers
• Rearrange major appliances for easier access
• Choose refrigerators with wheelchair-accessible handles
• Use slide-out drawers for easier cabinet access Kitchen:
Furniture:
• Chairs with armrests make it easier to stand and sit
• A lift chair with an electronic control can make sitting and standing safer
• Organize electrical cords to prevent tripping hazards
Lighting:
• Install easy-access light switches
• Use lighting to create safe navigation in all areas
• Voice-activated smart lighting can be perfect for seniors
Floorings/Rugs:
• Use non-shag carpeting over hard floors to reduce fall risk
• Wheelchairs or walkers are easier to use with short-pile carpet
• Slip-resistant backing can keep rugs in place and reduce tripping hazards
Frequently Asked Questions
Relocation Management Companies put their reputation on the line whenever they assign a brokerage to a corporate client. To ensure success, they need to have a general understanding of the level of service that can be provided and establish trust with their preferred brokerage. Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions that will help you know that all of your client’s needs can and will be met with Fazendin Realtors.
Here are the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions:
What services do you offer to incoming seniors?
• One-on-one counseling with a residential relocation expert
• A Fully Transparent Home Purchase process
• Moving Vendor Recommendation
• Mortgage Assistance
• Rental Search
• Title and Closing Services
• Neighborhood tours (group and/or individual)
• Comprehensive newcomer package and area information
• Maps and Local Information
• Recreational Activity Information
• Utility Set-up
What services do Fazendin Realtors offer to outgoing seniors?
• Understanding your needs as a relocating home seller and communicating the best way to address them
• Matching you with an area-specific residential relocation agent best suited to assist in your unique situation
• Providing an in-depth broker market analysis
• Creating a tailored marketing plan specific to the goal of selling your unique home
• Continuing communication with you even after the sale has closed to ensure all relocation selling needs have been adequately met
Have all Fazendin Agents received relocation-specific training?
• YES!
Please do not hesitate to reach to our Relocation Director via phone or email with any questions or concerns you may have. Your concerns, are our concerns.
Lynn Groll
relocation director, realtor®
cell : 612 202 2665
office : 952 473 7000
lynngroll @ fazhomes com
