Sustainability and Seniors
Exploring the core principles of sustainability and its impact on the well-being of senior clients.The effects of climate change are becoming clearer, and many companies and individuals are invested in reducing their harm to our environment for a more sustainable future. When facing a new purchase or a remodel, many consumers are drawn to eco-friendly, sustainable homes to both lower their impact on the environment and reduce monthly bills. What is sustainability?In the words of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, directly or indirectly, on our natural environment.” Every element essential to our daily lives, from wood and metals to plastics and fabrics, comes from nature. The materials used to build our homes, the energy that powers them, and the items we fill them with are all products of the natural world. So what defines sustainability? Put simply, a resource is sustainable if it is renewable and can be replenished at a rate equal to or surpassing its consumption. On a broader scale, sustainability also demands that we use natural resources responsibly so that future generations can enjoy a similar or even more bountiful way of living. Efforts to improve sustainability exist on national and global scales and span a variety of industries. However, developing sustainable life solutions can begin at the place we spend most of our time living: at home. What is sustainable housing?Sustainable housing is a holistic approach to addressing the challenges of contemporary living. It involves a careful examination of housing and community plans, all aiming to foster efficiency, reduce waste, conserve water, improve affordability, and create healthier environments. At the core of sustainability is the wise use of resources, broken down into two dimensions: Features such as xeriscape yards, greywater systems, solar panels, double-paned windows, and Energy Star appliances contribute to creating more environmentally conscious living spaces. Additionally, small changes like using LED lightbulbs, timed sprinklers, and proper insulation improve sustainability and save homeowners money. Sustainable housing goes beyond environmental considerations: It extends to the affordability and availability of homes in diverse markets. A sustainable home, based on the income levels of the local population, should be accessible to residents and provide them with housing that meets their basic needs. Also, the proximity of these homes to essential locations, like employment centers, stores, gas stations, and community hubs, is a crucial aspect of sustainability. The Impact of SustainabilityGoing green goes beyond being environmentally conscious. It also often translates to saving money.For many in the 55+ community, this will likely seem counterintuitive as, for many years, environmentalconsciousness almost always came with a huge price tag.Now, many eco-friendly trends are more affordable to adopt, and some will even save your clients money.The rationale is simple: Using fewer resources means paying for fewer resources. Many sustainability-focused updates require upfront costs, but they often yield longterm savings. Whether your clients in the 55+ community are actively seeking to reduce their carbon footprint or are simply interested in saving money, understanding the benefits of making eco-friendly changes is vital. Living a more sustainable lifestyle, including adopting eco-friendly housing options, is also proven to improve individual health and well-being. The research is clear:There is a direct connection between sustainability and improved health because of greater activity, cleaner water, lower exposure to toxins, and healthier foods, among other benefits. Older clients want to safeguard their health, so letting them know how eco-friendly housing options can improve their well-being is important.As your SRES® designee I will explore how making sustainability a priority benefits your older clients, from minimizing utility expenses and enhancing the resale value of homes to finding a comfortable living space and improving individual health. The EPA focuses on two main areas to promote sustainability: The EPA’s five sustainability indicators—air, water, land, ecological condition, and human
Financing Strategies for the Golden Years
According to AARP, 48% of households headed by individuals ages 55 and older need to do more to prepare for retirement. Additionally, 29% of people in the US who are retired or nearing 65 years old have no retirement savings or pension. These statistics underscore a significant issue: Many individuals are not financially prepared for their futures. While some of your clients might be on track for retirement with the help of a financial planner or wealth advisor, others might need additional support. David Kerber, a financial planner and wealth manager at Mercer Advisors, offers valuable insights on how to better serve your clients with financial planning. What Your Clients’ Financial Advisors Want You to Know
Green Residences
TRENDS THAT MAKE HOUSING MORE ECO-FRIENDLY As more people strive to build a sustainable future, the housing industry sees more innovative changes that shift toward environmental consciousness. These trends will likely continue as the rising generations are increasingly concerned with climate change and other “green” causes.Eco-friendly housing not only cuts down environmental impact but creates healthier, more efficient living spaces—and health is a priority for many in the senior population. Making a shift toward sustainability can save senior clients money and improve the resale value of their properties. Here are five of the main trends shaping the landscape of eco-friendly housing. Passive Design and Net-Zero Homes:Passive design optimizes natural resources such as wind and sunlight to create living spaces that don’t rely as heavily on artificial heating and cooling systems. Skylights, windows, and ventilation are planned strategically to keep dwellings cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The location and orientation of the home also make a difference in passive design.Net-zero homes aim to produce as much energy as they consume. This often means that net zero homes boast superefficient floor plans, but sustainability-seekers can use a variety of methods to reach net-zero. They can incorporate features like solar panels to produce energy while also using energy-efficient appliances, advanced insulation, and xeriscape yards to conserve resources. The blend of producing and reducing resources is key to building a net-zero home. Smart Home Technology for Energy Efficiency:Smart home systems are designed to simplify residents’ lives by saving them time, effort, and money. This means that many smart homes include systems that focus on energy efficiency. Smart homes often come with controls that allow homeowners to monitor and control energy consumption in real time, even when away. Energy-efficient appliances, automated lighting, and smart thermostats reduce energy use. These features not only enhance the comfort and convenience of living in a smart home but also make them more eco-friendly.As an added benefit, using smart home and energy-efficient appliances can often save clients money. In our current economy, inflated pricing puts pressure on bills related to our use of fossil fuel resources, including home heating and cooling, water bills, and electrical bills. Cutting down clients’ environmental impact could also mean cutting down on their monthly expenses. Recycled and Sustainable Building Materials:According to the EPA’s Advancing Sustainable Materials Management 2018 Fact Sheet, in 2018, theUS added 144 million tons of construction-related waste to its landfills. Luckily, the amount of housing-related refuse can decrease as more consumers use recycled and sustainable building materials in their homes.Homebuyers are more inclined to choose green resources than before, including reclaimed wood, bamboo, recycled steel, and eco-friendly insulation. Using sustainable building materials helps reduce the environmental impact of construction and promotes a more circular economy.Homeowners are also conserving more resources by purchasing secondhand materials when building or remodeling, and they are donating extra items instead of throwing them out. Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and Habitat for Humanity ReStores are all effective platforms for recycling buildingmaterials and cutting down waste. Water Conservation and Management:Water shortages and competition for water sources make conserving this resource a priority for many.The EPA notes that using less water provides consumers with many benefits. When we collectively use less water, not only is the resource conserved, but water quality, costs, and public health all improve. Lowflowfixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and drought-resistant landscaping are all eco-friendly housing trends that conserve water.Greywater systems recycle water from sinks and showers for nonpotable uses. Xeriscape yards require little or no watering and rely on smart designs and naturally occurring rainfall to stay beautiful.These home improvements are some of the many trends that contribute to water conservation. Prefab and Modular Construction:The preference for prefabricated and modular construction is a trend in the building construction industry that is here to stay. Modular construction techniques reduce waste, energy consumption, and project time. These methods often involve manufacturing building components off-site and then transporting them to the building lot where they are put together. This approach to building often yields more precise construction, reduced transportation-related emissions, and increased overall efficiency. Not only are these practices better for the environment, but they can be extremely cost-effective. This trend will likely safeguard the earth’s resources as well as your clients’. ConclusionEco-friendly housing trends are evolving rapidly. Innovative designs, advanced technology, and conscious construction aim to use resources efficiently and show how the future of housing is moving in a green direction. Moving toward sustainable housing can help your clients save money, improve health, increase resale values, and create more resilient communities. Staying informed about these sustainability trends positions you to guide your clients as they makehousing decisions that align with both their present needs and future aspirations.
Aging in Place: The Choice for Many Seniors
You don’t have to look far to appreciate that the U.S. population of older adults, those at least 65 years old, is increasing at historic rates. In the last decade, the population of older Americans increased by over 15 million, with many baby boomers now entering their 80s. The majority of those seniors live in their own homes. And while some older adults may prefer the assistance offered by senior living, the vast majority prefer to continue living in their homes for as long as possible—according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, nearly 90 percent of adults over 65 want to remain in their current homes as they grow older.Labeled simply “aging in place,” this phenomenon will have a significant impact on the real estate marketand how you might work with clients, friends and even family. Meeting the Challenges of Aging in Place For seniors, aging in place is not as simple as just deciding that they’ll stay in their own home. For many, that home was well-suited for their more active, more mobile years. As they age, that home may present increasing challenges for them, caregivers and family. In fact, one-third of the participants in a 2021 AARP survey said modifications would be necessary in their current residence so they or a loved one could continue to live there should physical limitations occur.Needed changes can come from decreased mobility—an upstairs bedroom that once offered privacy and quiet may be increasingly difficult to get to. If the senior is using a walker, getting to a second-floor bathroom may be a near impossibility. For others, diminished cognitive skills and memory challenges may suggest the need for protection from a stove left on, scalding water, tripping hazards and more.There may come a time when a senior must move to a facility that provides greater assistance. Until then, there is a lot that can be done to make aging in place a more viable option. You can help your clients and their families think about whether aging in place is the right choice and how to best do it. THESE SIMPLE CHANGES MAKE AGING IN PLACE EASIERMany beneficial aging in place modifications are simple and relatively inexpensive. Aging in Place Remodels That Can Help, or Harm, Home Value All home modifications are not created equal when it comes to a home’s sales price. Some enhance its value. Others reduce it. According to Bankrate, these modifications can improve home value for seniors: Some aging in place modifications can decrease the value of a home.If resale value is a consideration, think carefully about these installs: PAYING FOR AGING IN PLACE REMODELINGAging in place remodels can get expensive, a concern for those on or near to fixed retirement incomes. Fortunately, there are a number of ways for seniors to pay for aging in place remodels, from borrowing against the equity they’ve built up in the property to other financing. Home equity line of credit (HELOC)—If a good portion of the home is owned outright (most of the mortgage is paid off), seniors can use that equity to obtain a home equity line of credit. Since the home is collateral for the loan, interest rates tend to be lower, and funds can be withdrawn as needed for the remodel. According to the IRS, homeowners can deduct the interest on up to $750,000 of the loan if the funds are used to “substantially improve” the home. Home equity loan—A home equity loan is similar to a home equity line of credit except that funds are released in a lump sum which is repaid in installments. Like HELOCs, home equity loans tend to have relatively lower interest rates. And the same tax benefits as a HELOC apply. Home improvement loan—If the homeowner has good credit, this type of personal loan from a bank, credit union or online or peer-to-peer lender frequently doesn’t require a lien to be placed on the home. Reverse mortgage—Seniors aged 62 or older who own their home outright (i.e., the mortgage is paid off)may be eligible for a reverse mortgage, which converts a portion of the home’s equity to cash while allowing them to continue living in the home. Instead of monthly repayments of the funds, the debt is due only when the property is sold or permanently vacated. State housing finance agency loans—State agencies and nonprofit organizations such as Rebuilding Together often offer financial assistance for seniors. There are also funds that may be available through the Older Americans Act, distributed by Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). Keep in mind that there are income-limit requirements, so seniors need to check for a HousingFinance Agency in their area to understand options.
Meet Nick Lymberis
As an experienced real estate Broker, Mr. Lymberis is known for his dedication to client service. Born and raised in Willow Glen, he has watched first-hand as the valley orchards gave way to housing and high tech—and has experienced its effects on the Silicon Valley housing market. He leverages his years of expertise, knowledge, and a wide network of resources to advise his clients on issues related to remodeling or repairs, return on investment topics, as well as how to avoid potential problems in the buying or selling process. Prior to joining Coldwell Banker, Mr. Lymberis launched his own brokerage company, Perfect Harmony Properties, where he was a Broker/Owner. Previous to that, he was a Broker Associate at Alain Pinel Realtors. Mr. Lymberis is well-versed in investigating and analyzing the facts to present both the pros and cons of any situation. Having started his early career as a Deputy District Attorney, he prosecuted all categories of crimes—from murder to misdemeanors. After a little more than a decade of service, he transitioned to a privately practicing attorney and Managing Associate at Lymberis, Tollner, Stebbins & Bahrick, where he represented clients in criminal and civil litigation cases including real estate matters. An inactive, but still eligible, member of the California State Bar, Mr. Lymberis continues to exemplify the rules of professional conduct—taking on the unequivocal duty to always protect and advance the interests of his clients. Recognized for his high standards of professionalism and ethics, Mr. Lymberis also has a strong commitment to ongoing education and active participation in the industry. He has served in a number of leadership positions with the California Association of Realtors (CAR) and the Santa Clara Country Association of REALTORS® (SCCAOR), and has earned a number of top-producing awards and designations including CRS, SRES, e-PRO, CLHMS and ASP. An active member in the local business and professional communities for many years, he has served as Issues Chair for Property Rights for the Land Use/Environmental Committee, and Director of CAR. Since 2010 he has served as member of the Professional Standards Committee for SCCAOR. He has also served as a Chairperson of Professional Standards Committees for both organizations, as well as on the Grievance Committee for SCCAOR. Appointments Santa Clara County Association of REALTORS®Chairperson, Professional Standards Committee (2012)Member, Professional Standards Committee (2010 · Present)Member of Grievance Committee (2006 · 2010)California Association of REALTORS® · Director (2007 · Present)Issues Chair, Property Rights (2014)Issues Chair, Community interest Development, Housing Committee (2013)Issues Chair, Environmental issues, Land Use Committee (2012)Chairperson, Professional Standards Committee (2011)Vice–Chair Professional Standards Committee (2009) Education University of California at Berkeley · Bachelor of Science degree in Business, University of San Francisco · Juris Doctor, Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), e-PRO Certification Course, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) Personal When Mr. Lymberis isn’t working or volunteering, he enjoys watching television mini-series, movies and documentaries. He also likes to read, travel, and spend time with friends and his twin grand-nephews. Both he and his wife Barbara are vocalists and met while they were both singing leading roles with Opera San Jose. He enjoys attending plays, concerts, musical theater, and participating in local arts group activities.
Meet Barbara Lymberis
Ms. Lymberis has established a formidable reputation in the Silicon Valley real estate community. As past President (2012), Realtor of the Year (2015), and Board member for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors (SCCAOR), a state Director at the California Association of Realtors and committee member on the State Housing, Local Government Forum and Legislative Committees, among others, she is committed to high standards of excellence for herself, her business and the real estate community at large. Due to her participation at local and state levels, Barbara has keen insight into tax laws, legislation, and the rights of property and owners that is extremely relevant and valuable to her clients – buyers, sellers and investors. Formerly a senior-level marketing manager, Barbara’s expertise in marketing, public relations and negotiations strongly enhance her strengths as a real estate professional in the Silicon Valley. As an account and senior manager for business consulting firms in California and New York, Barbara also developed leading-edge marketing and PR strategies for high-tech start-up and incubator companies, as well as putting all of her experience to work as a conference producer for The Economist magazine. Barbara was featured in Bay Area Women’s Magazine. Following her return to California Ms. Lymberis launched her real estate career where she quickly excelled as a top-ranked agent and went on to launch Perfect Harmony Properties a boutique brokerage with her husband, Nick, an attorney and former Deputy District Attorney. Appointments RCS-D™, CRS®, SRES , CLHMS, PMN, ASP , REALTOR Member, Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Million Dollar Club SANTA CLARA COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® : 2015 REALTOR® of the Year, Santa Clara County Association of REALTORS® 2012 President, Santa Clara County Assoc. of REALTORS® 2011 President Elect, Santa Clara County Assoc. of REALTORS® 2010 Vice President, SCCAOR and Chair of SCCR Foundation 2006 – 2015 Board of Directors, Santa Clara County Assoc. of REALTORS® Committees: Executive, Finance, Membership (Chair), Foundation (Chair and VC ), Housing (Chair), LGR (Chair), LCRC, Leadership Development (Chair) 2016 Committees: Foundation (VC), Leadership Development, RAF Task Force, LCRC 2017 Committees: RAF Task Force CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®: 2017 Member of IMPAC, RAF, and Membership Committees 2015 Vice Chair, Communications Advisory Committee, Calif. Assoc. of REALTORS® 2014 Regional Chair, Region 19 2012 – 2016 Member of Communications Advisory Committee, Calif. Assoc. of REALTORS® 2007-2017 C.A.R. Director, Santa Clara County (Region 19) Committees: IMPAC, Communications Advisory, Legislative, Local Government, Housing, Housing Affordability Fund, Risk Management, Land Use and Environmental Issues NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®: 2017 – Member of Membership Communications Committee 2013 – Member of Communications and Land Use/Environment/Property Rights Committees 2008 and 2009 – Member of Land Use/Environment/Property Rights Committee WOMEN’S COUNCIL OF REALTORS®: 2011 Chair, By Laws and Standing Rules, CA State Chapter, Women’s Council of REALTORS® 2007 and 2008 CA State Chapter Governor, Women’s Council of REALTORS® 2008 and 2009 Instructor, National WCR Leadership Academy 2008 National Budget and Finance Committee 2005 President, Women’s Council of REALTORS® – Santa Clara Valley Chapter CA BRE 01342934 (2002) NRDS 198010177 Education San Jose State University · Master of Arts in Music, Boston Conservatory of Music · Bachelor of Arts in Music CLHMS designation course (2006), CRS 4-course curriculum for CRS designation (2005), WCR 3-course curriculum for PMN designation (2004 · 2005), SRES designation course (2004) Personal Ms. Lymberis is an active member and volunteer in the community and the arts. She sang with the Opera San Jose company for 10 years and continues to perform throughout the Bay Area. She has spent years working in development and fund-raising for many Bay Area arts organizations and continues her commitment to this work today. She is a former board member of the Steinway Society and the Mission City Community Fund. Barbara currently serves on the Board for the San Jose Chamber Orchestra.