GOOD SUPPORT NETWORK HELPS MOVE TO AGED CARE

This is a good news story about a delightful elderly couple making the transition into aged care.

Fifty years ago, Antonio* came to Australia and purchased a bush block in the Yarra Valley. After clearing a site, he then hand-built a two-bedroom weatherboard house. Once it was completed, Angela* migrated and they soon got married. They have lived there ever since.

Unfortunately, Antonio's health recently deteriorated to the point where Angela was no longer able to care for him in their home. He needed to move into the local aged care residence. Rather than remain alone in the house, Angela decided to accompany him.

Given their failing health and no family in Australia, they found the idea of clearing their home of contents and selling it a daunting prospect. Like many in these situations they needed to sell their home to pay for the aged care home's Refundable Accommodation Deposit.

Over the years they had got to know Kate*, the local Primary Health Care Nurse. Kate saw their predicament and went 'above and beyond' to help them with their move.

Kate recommended they engage a Vendor Advocate to manage the sale of the house.

That was how we became involved. In light of Antonio's health issues, we worked with Kate to put everything in place for a successful sale of the home and complete their move. This included:

• ensuring Angela collected personal belongings needed in the aged care home,

• arranging a local conveyancer to visit Antionio and Angela to prepare the contract of sale, and

• arranging to sell Antonio's car, furniture and household goods.

We recommended the appointment of a prominent local estate agent and negotiated a reduction in the agent's commission. The agent put the property on the market for private sale and soon attracted offers. We then worked with the agent to negotiate higher offers, and achieved an additional $32,600 for the property when it was sold.

Finally, the property needed to be cleared of remaining goods for settlement. An initial quote of $5,500 was received, which we thought was excessive. As there was little or no value in the remaining goods, we asked the agent to see if the purchaser wanted any items. It turned out that he was happy to retain all tools, equipment and materials in the sheds on the property, but wanted the house cleared. We then engaged a local contractor to clear the house, resulting in a saving of over $4,000.

This was a really satisfying example of establishing a network of support for an elderly couple in need however the response from Antonio and Angela to Kate when told of the sale price achieved for their home is what really resonated with us:

Thinking about selling your property? Contact us today for an obligation free consultation.

Phil Hoopmann 0402 890 830 | Robert Allanadale 0418 517 643 | info@towerpa.com.au

Level 3, 277 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell VIC 3124 | www.towerpa.com.au