Seniors Surprise When It Comes To Real Estate (NAPSA)—According to a recent survey, seniors are more tech savvy and independent than often portrayed—and many use that technology when shoppingfor real estate. That’s just one of the key findings in a recent survey that also revealed: * most seniors are looking to purchase single-family homes by a wide margin over homesin retirement communities and * most seniors are not looking to relocate to faraway, so-called “retirement meccas.” The survey of more than 1,300 people, age 55 and over, conducted for ERA Real Estate, revealed that the Internet is an essential tool in researching potential properties during their home-buying process. It was selected by the survey’s respondents as the second-most-popular home-buying research method, just behind physically “touring potential neighborhoods.” The survey also indicates that adults 55 and older continue to be an economic force in the real estate industry, especially in the second-home market. ERA Real Estate has long recognized the importance of understanding the needs of the senior market. For years, the company hasoffered extensive and in-depth training to its sales associates on how they can play a vital role in serving mature customers. In addition to this training, the company meets the needs of senior consumers by offering a variety of products and services designed to ease potential stress and anxiety i tei ‘ A growing number of mature adults are said to be using the Internet to begin their search for their next residence. often present during the homebuying andselling process. Its Sellers Security Plan offers sellers a guaranteed sale price and closing date. Through ERA Mortgage, the company offers a variety of highly flexible home financing options— many designed to meet the specific needs and lifestyles of senior consumers. And to ease concerns about additional costs after purchase, the ERA Home Protection Plan protects consumers against potential expensive repair or replacementcosts. According to Brenda W. Casserly, president and COO, ERA Franchise Systems, Inc., the survey offered evidence for the belief that seniors represent a unique market segment with particular needs. Often, she believes, these needs are best met by qualified, experienced real estate professionals who have been properly trained to service the senior market. To learn more, visit the Web site at www.era.com.
