EMAIA'S STORY--

Emaia recently earned her Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) certification, a distinction that demonstrates her dedication to helping seniors navigate the complexities of real estate. But what drove her to pursue this certification, and why is it so important especially in todays housing climate?

The Purpose Behind the SRES Certification

As an AARP member, Emaia was invited to join the AARP 2023 meeting where she learned firsthand about the challenges seniors face in today's real estate market. After spending time in an overflow class, she became fully involved in the group, recognizing the pressing issues seniors are encountering, such as housing, transportation, and healthcare. One of the largest concerns? The skyrocketing price of housing.

Seniors, many of whom are living solely on Social Security, are facing an unbearable situation. Rent continues to climb, but Social Security payments are locked. One heart-wrenching story shared at the meeting was a retired California woman living on her social security who became homeless for a year due to these exact circumstances of rent continuing to climb while her SS could not keep up. She lived on couches until she could secure a spot in subsidized housing, where her Social Security could cover the rent. Stories like these made it clear that there needs to be a shift in how society views affordable housing. Many people mistakenly believe affordable housing means Section 8 housing, when in reality, it’s often for everyday working people. This misunderstanding is a barrier to addressing the housing crisis.

How Emaia Was Inspired

Hearing stories like this prompted Emaia to think deeply about how real estate can better serve the senior population. With 38% of property in the U.S. owned by baby boomers, many of whom will pass it down to millennials, Emaia saw an opportunity to bridge the generational gap. She began asking herself: How can we create housing that serves all ages and needs? What can I do to help seniors navigate this changing landscape?

The reality is that in the next decade, we will face what’s called the “Silver Tsunami” — a time when the senior population will peak, and more families will be dealing with the challenges of aging relatives. Baby boomers are living longer, and it's essential to prepare for the growing need of senior housing options.

The SRES Certification: What It Entails

The Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) certification is important because it equips real estate professionals with specialized knowledge to assist clients aged 50 and above. This designation helps agents understand key topics like reverse mortgages, senior housing laws, and government programs such as Medicare and Social Security. SRES-certified agents are trained to navigate the unique challenges seniors face in real estate, ensuring they can offer tailored advice and guide them through important decisions, from downsizing to preparing for retirement. This certification demonstrates a commitment to providing expert service and support to the senior community.

The training is thorough, and it dives deep into the unique needs and challenges of different generations. Emaia learned the language and tools needed to understand the family dynamics of senior clients and how to be patient and compassionate in these important conversations.

Why the SRES Certification Matters

Emaia earned this certification not just for her professional growth, but because she is deeply committed to helping seniors and their families prepare for the future. With only a small percentage of certified specialists in the country compared to number of seniors, she is among a select group of professionals who are equipped to guide families through the complexities of senior real estate. She’s ready to be a part of the solution and to serve those in need.

With the combination of her personal dedication and the specialized training, Emaia is prepared to make a significant impact in the senior real estate space, ensuring that every senior and their family has the support they need when making these life-changing decisions.

If you, a parent, or someone you know is facing decisions about senior housing, reach out to Emaia — she’s here to start a conversation and help guide you through every step with care.