A Letter We Had To Share

KerryAnn Rainey • April 6, 2023

We wanted to share a letter that KerryAnn recently wrote to a colleague about working with families, real estate, and her own personal experiences.

Over the years I’ve unintentionally niched myself in a 55 and up community near me, and I’ve had the honor of working with many families that have lost a loved one. After losing my own mother, I went through that myself while assisting my father in navigating the process of final arrangements, the unnecessarily complex probate process, deciding what to do with clothes and things that are no longer needed (while also understanding that someone may not be ready to part with certain items right away and that in itself is a process).


I understand all too well that while grieving, making the smallest decision feels like moving a mountain. It's overwhelming. To then go through that all over again when my mother-in-law passed away a few years after that.


I know what it’s like to walk into a room where all the items are still left as they were when someone left the house that day for the last time not realizing they wouldn’t make it home that evening. Toothbrush left next to the sink, laundry left in the dryer, dirty dishes in the sink, unopened mail on the table… I always make the time to soak it all in and send prayers to the person that has passed and to their families as they navigate this difficult time. It’s a reminder that every day is truly a gift.


I know what it’s like to walk into a home that was obviously loved and filled with many family photos over the years. The children are grown and out of the house, and now one spouse has passed away leaving the remaining spouse the monumental task of now going through their lifelong accumulation of things filled with memories; photo’s (one of the most challenging of items to go through!), collectibles, furniture, kitchenware, etc. all while grieving.


Our parents and loved ones may also facing the transition of moving to a smaller home and/or room at an assisted living community or room with one of their children. This is also not something to be taken lightly as each loss of independence can take its toll on a person. I make the time to take in the photos, imagine the space with kids running around the house, family dinners at the dining room table, etc. and send prayers to the family for comfort and peace as they move through this time and on to a different stage in life, while thanking the home for providing a safe place for that family with anticipation for a new family to make many great memories there.


Often adult children don’t live nearby to assist with this process. They’re not familiar with local organizations that will gladly accept donations of food, furniture, towels, etc. Often they’ve never gone through the probate process and are not sure where to start, what to do, or who to call. On numerous occasions I’ve been able to walk through this process with them.


Listened to stories about their loved one, grieved with them, allowed them their space and time to get their bearings, allowed time to decide what they wanted to keep and what they wanted to donate or sell. Once they have made that decision I will coordinate the donations of items for them, I will have the home cleaned for them, coordinate any necessary repairs for them, so they don’t have the additional stress of taking that on.


I’m proud of the service that I provide and being able to walk through some very trying times and emotionally draining times with them. I truly care about the people I am blessed to serve every day.

KerryAnn's Current Real Estate Discussions

By KerryAnn Rainey June 2, 2025
Life at Timber Pines: A Premier 55+ Golf Community in Spring Hill, Florida  Located along Florida’s picturesque Nature Coast, Timber Pines is one of the most sought-after active adult communities in the state. Known for its scenic setting, robust amenities, and strong sense of community, Timber Pines offers residents an exceptional quality of life. This gated, member-owned, debt-free community spans over 1,400 acres and caters exclusively to adults aged 55 and older. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing lifestyle, an active social calendar, or world-class golf facilities, Timber Pines offers all of this and more in a beautifully maintained setting. Resort-Style Living for Active Adults At the heart of Timber Pines is its outstanding array of recreational and social amenities. Residents enjoy access to four distinct golf courses comprising a total of 63 holes—an extraordinary offering for any golf enthusiast. The Grand Pines championship course offers a traditional 18-hole layout, while The Hills and The Lakes provide two additional 18-hole executive courses. The Highlands, a 9-hole par-3 pitch and putt course, is ideal for beginners or those looking to sharpen their short game. In addition to golf, Timber Pines features eight lighted tennis courts, bocce and shuffleboard courts, horseshoe pits, and two resort-style outdoor pools. A well-equipped fitness and wellness center, walking and biking paths, a woodworking shop, and numerous hobby and special interest clubs provide residents with endless opportunities to stay active and engaged. Cultural and social life is also vibrant within the community. The Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, plays, and lectures, while the Lodge and Resident Activities Center offer daily events, classes, and clubs. Country club dining and social gatherings further enrich the communal atmosphere that Timber Pines is known for. Featured Property: 8041 Green Pines Terrace One of the community’s standout properties is currently available for sale at 8041 Green Pines Terrace , a charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa offering over 1,800 square feet of well-designed living space. Built in 1994 and situated on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this home features vaulted ceilings, an open floor plan, and durable tile and laminate flooring throughout. It is designed for comfort, low maintenance, and easy entertaining. The property’s mature landscaping is maintained by the homeowners’ association, ensuring the surroundings remain pristine year-round. With spacious interiors, thoughtful design elements, and close proximity to Timber Pines’ extensive amenities, this home is ideally suited for buyers looking to enjoy an active and carefree lifestyle. To learn more or schedule a private showing, please visit the property listing here. Learn More About Timber Pines Timber Pines is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a vibrant, well-established community built for those ready to embrace the best years of their life. With its strong financial foundation, exceptional amenities, and tranquil natural setting, Timber Pines remains one of Florida’s most desirable 55+ communities. To explore homes currently available or to schedule a private tour of 8041 Green Pines Terrace, contact Fuller House Real Estate today. We’re here to help you find the perfect home and lifestyle that fit your next chapter. For more details about the community, visit the official Timber Pines website .
By KerryAnn Rainey November 20, 2023
Selling your home is a significant undertaking, and while the prospect of a new chapter is exciting, it comes with its fair share of questions. Whether you're a seasoned seller or a first-timer, having the right information is crucial for a successful home-selling journey. Let's delve into the 10 key questions that home sellers often ask when preparing to sell their cherished abode. 1. What is My Home Worth? Unlocking the mystery of your home's value is the first step in the selling process. Reach out to a real estate agent for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to get a clear picture of your home's market value. This will guide you in setting a competitive and realistic listing price. 2. How Can I Boost Curb Appeal? First impressions matter, especially in real estate. Ask about ways to enhance your home's curb appeal. Simple landscaping, exterior repairs, and a fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference in attracting potential buyers. 3. To Renovate or Not to Renovate? The renovation dilemma is real. Consult with professionals to determine which repairs or renovations are worth the investment. Strategic improvements can add value and make your home more appealing to prospective buyers. 4. What Documents Do I Need? Paperwork is a necessary evil. Compile essential documents, such as property records, warranties, and utility bills, to streamline the selling process. Being organized from the start sets the stage for a smoother transaction. 5. How Can I Stage My Home Effectively? Staging transforms a house into a home. Seek advice on presenting your home in the best light. Decluttering, rearranging furniture, and creating a warm atmosphere can make a lasting impression on potential buyers. 6. When is the Best Time to Sell? Timing is everything in real estate. Understand the market trends, seasonal fluctuations, and local factors that can influence the timing of your listing. Knowing when to make your move can significantly impact your selling success. 7. How Do I Navigate Negotiations and Offers? Negotiating is an art. Arm yourself with knowledge on how to handle negotiations and evaluate offers. A seasoned real estate professional can guide you through the process, ensuring you make informed decisions. 8. What Costs Should I Expect? Selling comes with a price. Inquire about the various costs associated with selling your home, from agent commissions to closing costs and potential repairs. Knowing the financial landscape prepares you for a seamless transaction. 9. How Can I Market My Home Effectively? Marketing is the key to visibility. Explore the best strategies for marketing your property, including online listings, open houses, and social media promotion. A well-thought-out marketing plan can attract the right buyers to your doorstep. 10. What Happens During the Closing Process? Closing is the finish line. Understand the ins and outs of the closing process, from the necessary paperwork to what to expect on the final day. Having a clear roadmap to the closing table ensures a smooth transition from seller to the next proud homeowner. Selling your home involves careful consideration and strategic planning. By asking the 10 key questions outlined in this blog post, you empower yourself to make informed decisions, setting the stage for a successful home-selling experience. Whether you're bidding farewell to your first home or parting ways with an investment property, the right knowledge is your best ally in this exciting endeavor.  Ready to embark on your home-selling adventure? At Fuller House Real Estate, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced team is dedicated to making your selling journey seamless and successful. Contact us today to schedule a personalized consultation. Let's turn your home-selling dreams into a reality! Thank you for trusting Fuller House Real Estate with your home-selling journey. We look forward to assisting you in achieving your real estate goals. To contact Fuller House Real Estate, please call 727-470-9373 , or visit the website at FullerHouseRE.com .
More Posts