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Senior Real Estate Specialist Des Moines | SRES® Realtor | Smart Move Des Moines
⭐ SRES® Certified Specialist

Senior Real Estate Services in Des Moines

Compassionate, experienced guidance for life's next chapter. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or helping aging parents—I'm here to help.

Why Choose an SRES® Specialist?

The SRES® designation (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) means I've completed specialized training to understand the unique needs of homebuyers and sellers aged 50+.

This isn't just a certification—it's a commitment to serving seniors with the patience, understanding, and expertise this important life transition deserves.

Understanding of Emotional Aspects

Selling a family home involves memories and emotions. I get it.

Knowledge of Senior Housing Options

From 55+ communities to assisted living—I know the landscape.

Patience-First Communication

We move at YOUR pace. No pressure, no rushing.

Financial Considerations Expertise

Understanding of Medicare, pensions, and how home sales impact finances.

SRES® Certified

Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation from the National Association of Realtors®

Senior Services I Offer

Comprehensive support for every aspect of your real estate journey.

📦

Downsizing & Decluttering Support

Guidance on what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Connections to estate sale companies and organizers.

🏠

Home Sale for Seniors

Strategic pricing, minimal-stress showings, and expert negotiation to maximize your home's value.

🏘️

Senior Living Transitions

Help finding the right 55+ community, independent living, or assisted living arrangement.

📋

Estate Sales Guidance

Coordination with trusted estate sale professionals to handle belongings with care.

🚚

Relocation Assistance

Whether moving across town or across the country, I'll coordinate every detail.

👨‍👩‍👧

Adult Children Support

Helping families navigate the process of assisting aging parents with their move.

The Senior Selling Process

A thoughtful approach that respects your timeline and emotional needs.

1

Compassionate Consultation

We meet, listen, and understand your unique situation

2

Home Evaluation

Assess your home's value and create a plan

3

Prepare & Declutter

Organize, stage, and get move-ready

4

Market & Sell

Strategic marketing and smooth showings

5

Transition Support

Help you settle into your new chapter

"We move at YOUR pace. There's never pressure to rush."

Trusted Partner: Golden Concierge

For families exploring assisted living and memory care options, I've partnered with Golden Concierge—Des Moines' trusted senior living placement specialists. They provide free, personalized guidance to find the right care community for your loved one.

Learn More About Golden Concierge →

What Families Say

Stories from seniors and families I've had the honor to help.

★★★★★

"After 42 years in our family home, the thought of selling was overwhelming. Sarah understood the emotional weight and never rushed us. She helped us find a wonderful 55+ community where we're now thriving."

MJ

Margaret & Jim

Downsized after 42 years

★★★★★

"I live in California but needed to help my mom sell her Des Moines home. Sarah was my eyes and ears on the ground—sending videos, coordinating repairs, and keeping me informed every step of the way."

DL

David L.

Adult child, out-of-state

★★★★★

"Sarah's SRES training really showed. She knew exactly what questions to ask, connected us with an estate sale company, and made the whole process so much less stressful than we expected."

SB

The Berger Family

Estate sale & transition

★★★★★

"We weren't sure if we were ready to sell, but Sarah encouraged us to just have a conversation. No pressure—just information. When we were ready six months later, we knew exactly who to call."

RH

Robert & Helen

Clive to West Des Moines

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from seniors and their families.

What is an SRES® certified realtor?

An SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) is a realtor who has completed specialized training to understand the unique needs of homebuyers and sellers aged 50+. This includes knowledge of senior housing options, financial considerations, and the emotional aspects of life transitions.

How long does senior downsizing take?

Every situation is different, but most senior downsizing projects take 2-4 months from start to finish. We work at YOUR pace—there's never pressure to rush. Some families need more time for emotional decisions, and that's perfectly okay.

Can you help if my parents live out of state?

Absolutely! I regularly work with adult children who live outside Iowa but need to help their parents sell a home or transition to senior living. I provide detailed video updates, coordinate with local vendors, and make the process as seamless as possible from a distance.

Do you work with estate sales?

Yes, I have strong relationships with reputable estate sale companies in Des Moines. Whether you're downsizing and need to sell belongings, or handling a property after a family member's passing, I can coordinate these services as part of the overall plan.

What if the home needs repairs before selling?

I'll assess what repairs are worth doing and which aren't. My background in property insurance (10+ years) means I spot issues other agents miss. I have trusted contractors who work with seniors and can coordinate everything for you.

Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?

Let's have a conversation—no obligation, no pressure. Just honest guidance to help you make the right decision for your situation.

Or call Sarah directly: (563) 513-8771

"No pressure. No obligation. Just honest guidance."