Buying or selling a home is challenging at any stage of life, but it can be especially difficult for seniors. Emotional attachments, changing physical needs and financial limitations all play a role in the decision-making process. Fortunately, Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES) like David Zuercher, 68, are trained in guiding seniors through life’s transitions.

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS TO SENIORS' CHALLENGES

Acting as the executor of his parents’ estate of 50 years gave him firsthand insight into the complexities of senior relocation. But it was his rapport with seniors in Colorado Springs that inspired him to earn his SRES designation.

“Helping seniors reach their goals and achieve better results than they expected” is the most rewarding aspect of his work, he said. It also requires him to get creative.

Many seniors worry about affording a move, often due to mounting medical bills. Zuercher helps them explore refinancing options they didn’t know existed and educates them on programs where hospitals and medical providers negotiate lower payments. 

“I try to construct a win-win for everyone,” he said.

That problem-solving mindset extends to unexpected situations. When a family he was working with faced a tight deadline to move out of state, they realized—mid-move—that the walls behind their china cabinet and refrigerator needed painting. They had the paint but no time to do it. Without hesitation, Zuercher grabbed a roller and took care of it himself. 

“They didn’t ask me to do it. I just thought, ‘We need to get this done, and they’re out of town,’” he said. “So, I was able to take care of it and had a lot of fun helping them.”

In another case, an 80-something woman was relocating from Texas to be closer to her daughter and new grandchild. After an extensive search, they found the perfect home—within walking distance of her daughter’s. But just before closing, they learned the house was less than a mile from a raging wildfire.

Zuercher stayed in regular contact with her throughout the buying process, reassuring her that her future home was safe. He met with the homeowner’s association to ensure there were no surprises. 

Zuercher helps his clients understand the nuances of their new communities. For those moving to Monument, for example, he explains that its water and electric companies bill separately, unlike Colorado Springs Utilities. 

He also prepares clients relocating to Monument or Pueblo for a slower pace of life.

FROM MUSIC TO REAL ESTATE

While Zuercher’s expertise in real estate and regulations is vital, it’s his upbeat personality that makes the process less stressful. Many clients appreciate his sense of humor and jovial attitude.

“I like to have fun, but fun is a byproduct of being successful,” he explained. “I’m very targeted and laser-focused, but I also want to make seniors feel at ease and in control.” 

Zuercher’s career path wasn’t always in real estate. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, he moved to Colorado Springs in 1979 to pursue a career as a professional trumpeter with the Philharmonic.  After about 15 years, he experienced lip difficulties that made trumpeting a challenge. He decided to pivot to real estate. 

“I’d always been interested in real estate, and I thought, ‘If I’m going to have trouble playing, then I need another source of income,’” said Zuercher. 

He earned his real estate broker license in 1994 and eventually launched his own company, naming it Purple Elephant Realty. 

“You would remember a purple elephant if you saw one, wouldn’t you?” he said. “If you want to sell your house, you need the messages about your house to be noticed.”

The name was no accident. Elephants are known for their loyalty and memory, and of course, they trumpet—a nod to his musical past. 

PUTTING CLIENTS FIRST

Zuercher’s commitment to prioritizing people over profit has earned him a strong reputation in the real estate field. His passion, patience and professionalism in working with seniors is a bonus. 

“Sometimes I’ll have a handful of clients. Other times, it’s kind of slow. But I would rather be able to wait and give people my full attention,” Zuercher said. 

And when you’re buying or selling a home, that kind of personalized attention makes all the difference.

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Contact Zuercher at 719-661-3702 or visit PurpleElephantRealty.com.