In this powerful conversation, John Kitchens sits down with real estate professional Renee Velasquez to discuss one of the most challenging — and overlooked — aspects of the industry: guiding families through the sale of a home during major life transitions, especially when caring for aging loved ones.

Drawing from her own deeply personal experience and years of client work, Renee breaks down the emotional, legal, and logistical hurdles that families face, from probate pitfalls to the delicate “right-sizing” conversation. You’ll learn how to prepare clients before crisis hits, build a trusted network of attorneys and service providers, and serve with empathy while still leading decisively.

Whether you’re an agent looking to better serve this growing market or a family member navigating these waters yourself, this episode is a must-listen.

The Emotional Landscape of Families in Transition

• How emotions override logic in real estate decisions during difficult times

• Understanding the “brokenhearted, disgruntled, and disinterested” client types
  
  

Legal & Financial Essentials

• Why wills alone aren’t enough to avoid probate — and the one document that can save months of stress

• The critical role of estate, trust, and probate attorneys — and how to build a referral network

• Common mistakes families make when transferring property
  
  

Right-Sizing & Housing Options

• Why Renee avoids the term “downsizing” and what “right-sizing” really means

• Exploring ranch homes, condos, multi-generational housing, assisted living, and memory care facilities

• How reverse mortgages can be a viable solution for funding care needs
  
  

Practical Solutions for Overwhelmed Families

• Handling a home full of possessions: storage, donation, selling, or “as-is” sales

• The benefits of packaging a home sale for buyers willing to purchase with contents included

• How to lead group decision-making when multiple heirs are involved
  
  

Agent Leadership & Empathy

• The balance between compassion and strong leadership in emotional transactions

• When to refer the listing to another agent (and how to co-list)

• Building lifetime relationships by guiding clients through one of the hardest seasons of their lives

• Connect with Renee Velasquez: Facebook, Instagram, Email: renee@thersvpgroup.com, Call/Text: (330) 321-3339

• HoneyBadgerNation.com – Events, merch, training, and resources for top agents

• StoryBrand by Donald Miller – Framework for positioning as a guide, not the hero

• CHSA/CHBA Systems – Increase perceived value and authority in every deal

"Comparison is the thief of joy, and I stopped comparing my business to everyone else’s." – Renee Velasquez

• Instagram: @johnkitchenscoach
• LinkedIn: @johnkitchenscoach
• Facebook: @johnkitchenscoach

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies from the top minds. See you next time! 🔥