Preferred Vendors Can Help Plan Your Move to Charlestown

Harold and Norma Kanarek knew that a vibrant, carefree retirement was on the horizon when they decided to move to Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md.

However, after living in their four-bedroom house in Hunting Ridge, a historic district in Baltimore City, for 38 years, they were unsure of what the selling and moving process would entail.

Luckily, as Priority List members, they had exclusive access to professionals, services, and resources, simplifying their move from start to finish.

Getting started

When Harold and Norma decided on Charlestown, they worked closely with Meagan Deal, the community's planning and moving consultant, who recommended a list of preferred real estate agents to get the ball rolling.

"Our preferred real estate agents are experts in the emotional and logistical aspects of selling a longtime home," explains Deal.

"They understand the unique coordination involved in moving to Charlestown. They are carefully vetted for professionalism, responsiveness, and trustworthiness. They also excel in pricing, marketing, and efficiently selling homes, all while minimizing stress for incoming residents."

The Kanareks chose preferred real estate agent Robert Skudrna of The Bridge Team at Long & Foster in Reisterstown, Md. Skudrna, who holds a Seniors' Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation, has helped more than 300 retirees move to Charlestown over the past 18 years.

"I offer guidance every step of the way! I start with a home visit where we tour your property, discuss the next steps, and answer any questions you may have," he explains. "I then provide a current market analysis of your neighborhood and factor in all of the unique features of your house to give you an educated estimate of its value."

Skudrna continues, "If you decide we are a good fit, we will set up a follow-up visit to review and sign the listing agreement. And if any services are needed, like painters or contractors for repairs, we can recommend some wonderful vendors."

These preferred vendors are part of the Erickson Realty and Moving Services program, also exclusive to Priority List members.

Powerful partnership

According to Skudrna, the number one mistake sellers make is listing their home before it's ready.

"You only get one chance to make a good first impression," says Skudrna. "In this market, major renovations aren't always necessary. However, it is important to address minor cosmetic issues and significant defects before going on the market."

Skudrna and his team are experts at guiding future residents on which improvements are worthwhile.

"With years of experience navigating fluctuating market conditions, our preferred real estate agents know how to price and present a home to maximize its value in any market," says Deal.

Harold and Norma followed Skudrna's advice, which included refinishing their hardwood floors, adding fresh coats of paint indoors, and power washing the exterior of their house.

"Everything was very well coordinated, allowing us to get the house on the market quickly. Using contractors they recommended really took the pressure off of us," recalls Harold.

The result? The Kanareks' house sold in less than two days!

In good hands

In addition to Skudrna, Harold and Norma worked with a preferred mover that Deal recommended.

"The day of the move, they loaded up the moving truck while we stayed in a guest room at Charlestown. The next day, they moved everything into our apartment," recalls Harold. "The moving company had a person who coordinated everything and consulted with us. Everything went smoothly."

He adds, "We also hired a company who cleaned out the house after we moved. That was a big help and really made it a lot easier."

"We were very lucky that Charlestown recommended so many resources," says Norma. "They pamper you and take care of you. We just followed the steps they told us to take, and everything worked out."

Worry-free living

Since moving to Charlestown last summer, the Kanareks have been making the most of their worry-free lifestyle.

"There are so many activities here! We've met a lot of people and gone to a lot of events. There are lectures and continuing education classes, and I use the swimming pool," says Harold.

"We feel really great about our move!" adds Norma.

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Danielle Rexrode