Senior real estate specialist Rachel Mohlere talks about the issues facing seniors. With a background in social activism, Rachel has always been aware of communities that are underserved. She has a deep interest in transition as well - which fits well with the senior housing sector.

For Rachel, working in real estate is more about home than it is about selling houses. There is a national certification for real estate agents to work with older adults. As the market evolved, she saw how it related to other industries.

She works with her clients holistically to see the impact of their entire lives. She’s developed a program to benefit people making the transition from a home owner into senior housing.

She noticed that people are starting to think and plan about their housing options much earlier than previously. She created what she called the Village Movement as people sold their houses and created supportive communities. Villages are based on the model when people lived in villages that were connected and watched out for each other.

It’s a membership program that covers a specific geographic area that includes a social group, a group of trained volunteers who help with transportation and things that seniors need done, and they have a vetted vender list who discount their prices. Additionally, there’s a partnership with care providers, agencies and other services.