Can anyone help this woman?

[DON10E]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.

[Papa Muzzy]

Where are her neighbors ?

[retiredguy123]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?

[Bogie Shooter]

Family?

[kathyspear]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?

I think Zillow is way off (too high) with that estimate. We sold our previous home in Calumet Grove last March and Zillow says it is worth $90k more than we sold it for. It is not.

Zillow says they paid $381,500 in 2004. (That seems high to me but I could be wrong.) In any case, I would guess her home might be worth in the mid- to high-400's, depending on condition. If it hasn't been updated at all (which is likely, if her husband passed away 8 years ago) it could be worth less. She might have some equity in the house but not what it might seem like if you go by Zillow.

I agree that she should probably sell it and buy something much smaller. One person doesn't need 2200+ sq. ft. She may not have anyone nearby (adult kids or grandkids) to help her with packing up/moving out of a home where she has lived for 16 years and listing it for sale. Or she may be reluctant to leave the home where she and her husband lived together.

It would be great if a neighbor or two would try and help her. I don't know what we, as strangers, can do but I would be willing to contribute to a GoFundMe if one were set up.

kathy

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’m a very soft touch for charities but this lady has a very nice pension coming in and who knows how much is in the house . I give to some go find me people but they usually have nothing because of some disaster or medical, even if there’s not much in the house she can find many inexpensive nice places to live on that pension and one poster is right where are her neighbors

[DON10E]

I’m a very soft touch for charities but this lady has a very nice pension coming in and who knows how much is in the house . I give to some go find me people but they usually have nothing because of some disaster or medical, even if there’s not much in the house she can find many inexpensive nice places to live on that pension and one poster is right where are her neighbors

You may be right, but her husband’s pension may have ended at his death. Not enough info.

[Bilyclub]

The birdcage for sure is pretty disgusting.

[retiredguy123]

I think Zillow is way off (too high) with that estimate. We sold our previous home in Calumet Grove last March and Zillow says it is worth $90k more than we sold it for. It is not.

Zillow says they paid $381,500 in 2004. (That seems high to me but I could be wrong.) In any case, I would guess her home might be worth in the mid- to high-400's, depending on condition. If it hasn't been updated at all (which is likely, if her husband passed away 8 years ago) it could be worth less. She might have some equity in the house but not what it might seem like if you go by Zillow.

I agree that she should probably sell it and buy something much smaller. One person doesn't need 2200+ sq. ft. She may not have anyone nearby (adult kids or grandkids) to help her with packing up/moving out of a home where she has lived for 16 years and listing it for sale. Or she may be reluctant to leave the home where she and her husband lived together.

It would be great if a neighbor or two would try and help her. I don't know what we, as strangers, can do but I would be willing to contribute to a GoFundMe if one were set up.

kathy
To clarify, the house is on a cul de sac, with a nice golf course view, and a large swimming pool. It is valued at $100K to $250K above every other house on the street. I don't think it would be difficult to sell even if it is not upgraded.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

There's no reason why she should even still be living in that house, other than sentimental stubbornness. She could sell it for $350,000, far below whatever Zillow claims it's worth, "as is," buy a smaller home in the Spanish Springs area for around $200,000. With the profits she can afford to hire a professional mover, pay the amenity fees, and hire a lawn and pesticide guy for the next 5 years. She'd have plenty left over for taxes and to supplement whatever her Social Security income is.

[manaboutown]

She needs to sell and move to something she can afford to maintain.

[EdFNJ]

Zillow says they paid $381,500 in 2004. (That seems high to me but I could be wrong.)
kathy


According to Marion County Tax Assessor $381,500 is correct. After 16 years it should easily be worth $450-$500K. Taxes are $5700 which in itself must be tough for her. It's sad to see someone in that state of mind due to finances but family if any or downsize or senior living unit would be her best bets. It's described as a VILLAGES GOLF DESIGNER HOME 2230 Sq feet.

[graciegirl]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?

I looked it up too. She paid $283,000 in 2003. I agree with you. I would clean up what I could and sell it and get out from under the amenity fees and live smaller and cheaper somewhere close. I for one would do that far before I would allow a go fund me.

[JimJohnson]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.

Husband died in 2012. If in fact it took 8 years to identify an upcoming problem with finances, then there is something else going on here. I am sympathetic to anyone falling on hard times, but I am more concerned about taking advantage of the gullibility of giving people.
With the information provided, something smells.

[Eg_cruz]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.
Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

[Eg_cruz]

You may be right, but her husband’s pension may have ended at his death. Not enough info.
That would be rare most retired military passes to spouse

[b0bd0herty]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?

If there is enough equity in the house, it sounds like a reverse mortgage would be a very good option.

[mrrmauu]

Interesting that the first thought is to throw money at the problem (via GoFundMe). Reminds me of our government. A little research indicates that throwing money is NOT the answer. The answer is a tough love discussion about viable options. There are some great responses here.

[1couple]

thisim story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas? I’m not a contractor but I am able to do some things and would be happy to help from free



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.[/QUOTE]

[merrymini]

It does not take eight years to figure out you cannot afford a house and sell it to move into a smaller place. Everybody's heart is in the right place but she will be right back here if a change is not made. Very sad.

[mydavid]

A lot of advice, but no real help, welcome to Florida's friendliest hometown.

[Debfrommaine]

[QUOTE=Eg_cruz@comcast.net;1873146]Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

I think I read about this and now can't access "the other newspaper" via my google account. Anyhow, I think she has a reverse mortgage on it. It was yesterday or the day before that I saw an article.

[4557Spahr]

I’m sure there’s more to the story. I volunteer at an organization that helps people but vets them first. We review the income and expenses and give recommendations and, if needed, send someone to help with repairs and budgeting. You can’t really jump to conclusions without all the facts. Once you know the facts you can move on from there. I’d be more than happy to visit this person and see what can be done. Many times people aren’t willing to accept help.

[retiredguy123]

If there is enough equity in the house, it sounds like a reverse mortgage would be a very good option.
I don't think a reverse mortgage would be a good financial decision. This house is on a prime golf course lot with a swimming pool. If it went on the market, it would probably sell very quickly at a good price. As others have noted, the woman could buy a smaller house in the same area and be financially better off.

[retiredguy123]

[QUOTE=Eg_cruz@comcast.net;1873146]Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

I think I read about this and now can't access "the other newspaper" via my google account. Anyhow, I think she has a reverse mortgage on it. It was yesterday or the day before that I saw an article.
There was a story 2 days ago, but it did not mention a reverse mortgage.

[Pbthrockm@msn.com]

Shame on you if you suggested she sell her house. This is not merely her house but her home. Being military it probably is the only one she has known. Did you notice her name. She maybe from Europe and married military man. And military pensions are not automatic the military person has to signup for it at time if retirement for their spouse and there is a monthly premium to be paid that is not cheap.
The residents of the villages many have a great deal of money and it would be the right thing to do to set up a fund to help her Having her move will add to her already difficult situation. Emotional and financial as moves are not cheap.

[matandch]

A lot of advice, but no real help, welcome to Florida's friendliest hometown.

That’s what I was thinking.

[retiredguy123]

That would be rare most retired military passes to spouse
It would be rare, but it happens. The retired miltary person can opt out of the surviving spouse pension. But, they do need to get their spouse's signature approval. However, I have a relative who was a military spouse who signed the approval without even knowing what they signed. The retired military person gets a higher pension if they opt out of the surviving spouse pension.

[wamley]

Not to sound uncaring, but your remedies of a GoFund me, neighbors helping to fix up etc is a temporary fix for a log time problem, house & property maintenace. The issue is on going and her real solution lies in downgrading. I beleive with all the Covid issues and generally the aging population, more & more northerners are heading to the villages. Housing prices have been going up significantly.

[kimaquintana@aol.com]

Is anyone in touch with this woman? I would be happy to meet with her and potentially purchase the house and let her stay there and pay monthly rent. OR I would be willing to see what she is in need of and help her get workers scheduled and put up funds to get the work done. How do I get in touch with her? Kim Quintana 978-476-1342

[mrrmauu]

A lot of advice, but no real help, welcome to Florida's friendliest hometown.

Help doesn’t necessarily mean throwing money at a problem. Sometimes the best help is advice. This may be the case here. If you take the time to read each post it becomes clear what the answer is.

[RFB41]

She gets 55% of his military retirement - a minimum of $43,000 ($23,600)
Plus Social Security- $35,000.
She needs someone to assist with ensuring she receives her entitlements.

[ruralgoddess]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.
It's time for people to step up and help her.... it's what true neighbors are for, right?

[Joanne D]

What is the name of this organization?

[Joanne D]

I’m sure there’s more to the story. I volunteer at an organization that helps people but vets them first. We review the income and expenses and give recommendations and, if needed, send someone to help with repairs and budgeting. You can’t really jump to conclusions without all the facts. Once you know the facts you can move on from there. I’d be more than happy to visit this person and see what can be done. Many times people aren’t willing to accept help.

What is the name of this organization?

[ruralgoddess]

Is anyone in touch with this woman? I would be happy to meet with her and potentially purchase the house and let her stay there and pay monthly rent. OR I would be willing to see what she is in need of and help her get workers scheduled and put up funds to get the work done. How do I get in touch with her? Kim Quintana 978-476-1342
God bless you, Kim

[richs631]

Husband died in 2012. If in fact it took 8 years to identify an upcoming problem with finances, then there is something else going on here. I am sympathetic to anyone falling on hard times, but I am more concerned about taking advantage of the gullibility of giving people.
With the information provided, something smells.

There’s always more to the story. I know someone who has plenty of money but they lack the mentality capacity to spend and make repairs. Family has tried for many years to help buy she doesn’t want any. She has the capacity to tell a judge she’s fine so legally theirs nothing wrong with her.

[Debfrommaine]

[QUOTE=Eg_cruz@comcast.net;1873146]Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

I think I read about this and now can't access "the other newspaper" via my google account. Anyhow, I think she has a reverse mortgage on it. It was yesterday or the day before that I saw an article. Was able to get to see article, she does not have a reverse mortgage apparently. Very sad situation.

[retiredguy123]

She gets 55% of his military retirement - a minimum of $43,000 ($23,600)
Plus Social Security- $35,000.
She needs someone to assist with ensuring she receives her entitlements.
She gets her spouse's Social Security income, but she may not get a military pension. Her spouse could have opted out of the surviving spouse pension with her signature approval. Some spouses will sign this without even knowing what they are signing.

[rlcooper70]

I fear this is a common situation ...... the obvious solution is for her to sell the house and move to a place she can afford. Even fixing this one up will leave her in the exact situation in short order.

[ruralgoddess]

I’m a very soft touch for charities but this lady has a very nice pension coming in and who knows how much is in the house . I give to some go find me people but they usually have nothing because of some disaster or medical, even if there’s not much in the house she can find many inexpensive nice places to live on that pension and one poster is right where are her neighbors
how can you pass judgement when you don't know get?

[zuidemab]

Home equity is the key, particularly at 73. She may qualify for second mortgage or a reverse mortgage. Some one she trusts and knows this stuff should accompany her.

[Heyitsrick]

A lot of advice, but no real help, welcome to Florida's friendliest hometown.

Did we all miss the help you're providing?

As has been mentioned, just throwing money at an issue isn't necessarily going to be a long-term fix. What would need to be ascertained (and that's if she's willing to assist) is to find out what's going on with her finances, debts, spending, etc. That's a professional endeavor that a counselor should be engaged in.

Once that information is obtained, it should be clear what her options are. And yes, holding onto a property one cannot afford is not a smart choice. How is this not going to repeat itself when whatever help is offered is spent?

To those here asking "where are her neighbors", etc., what, specifically, do you want her neighbors to do? Are you talking about money? Are you talking about repair and cleanup? How would the neighbors help to fix her finances going forward?

The poster "Kim" above seems to have the most generous offer of buying the property and renting it back - but again, who knows if this person wants to sell?

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

Selling and getting something smaller and more manageable would have been my first choice
I know that's not what prople want to hear. So everyone helps this time what happens after that

[Girlcopper]

Husband died in 2012. If in fact it took 8 years to identify an upcoming problem with finances, then there is something else going on here. I am sympathetic to anyone falling on hard times, but I am more concerned about taking advantage of the gullibility of giving people.
With the information provided, something smells.
Theres more to this story obviously. We dont know her mental state. She may have problems and not really understand or be able to make a decision. Shes lived there long enough for neighbors to step in who know her and help her out. Not necessarily financially but help to make a decision and ket her understand her options

[Kenswing]

None of us know the true circumstances behind her troubles. For all we know her financial troubles could come from being taken advantage of by family members or other shysters. This is where a visit from a social worker would be appropriate.

It's truly a sad situation.

[Dot Rheinhardt]

I am in the same situation. Lost my husband's Social Security because of GPO (married 66 years) over $24,000 a year, but bills keep on. Reverse mortgage could help, but if she owes more than $100,000 on her house, I think she has to come up with whatever she owes over that amount to get the reverse mortgage (not sure of this ). I expect she lost all or most of her husband's pension when he died. I could sell my house, but may not, and get a smaller house, but I have animals and other considerations, so probably won't. We don't know the whole situation her (other bills, car loans, etc.). I do feel sorry for her, and she may not have all the mental abilities to conduct whatever needs to be done. If she has family, they should step in and advise her.

[GATORBILL66]

I think it would a be a good idea for oine of her neighbors or a friend to set up a meeting at a nearby rec center to help her out. The meeting could be folks who want to donate money to help get the home fixed up for sale or even folks who could volenteer to work on the home. But she would have to sell the home. This would be a one time fix for her so shee can find a place she could afford.

If any such meeting is evr set up.... COUNT ME IN! Gator Bill

[kimaquintana@aol.com]

Well I am very serious, I am very experienced in these types of situations and I am more than happy to help out a woman in distress. If someone has her contact information, please give her my phone number 978-476-1342. If not, I suppose I can knock on her door and if that is the way it goes, I will keep you all posted on the outcome! Have a safe and happy Holiday season.

[Dana1963]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.
Life is full of mistakes and hardships we can't save everyone. Currently according to Zillow, there are 16 foreclosures in The Villages area who do you want to save next.

[Jennifer2020]

She should sell her home and move to a more affordable home.

[brfree1411@aol.com]

retired military pension stops at their death. Social security is probably minimal. She needs to fix her house in order to sell it. This might be too much for her to do alone. Maybe she has children or family members she can ask for help.

[Gulfcoast]

There are a lot of missing details but it does seem pretty clear that the house has gotten to be too much for this lady to maintain. The longer she defers maintenance, the longer she lets things go, the more expensive the repairs will be and the more that will need to be done. She should sell that house and downsize. Maybe she should look at some of the available Independent Living apartments where she wouldn't have to worry about doing any repairs or yard work. She was only in her late 60's when her husband died 8 years ago. Maybe staying in the house made good sense at the time but it doesn't seem to be a great choice for her now. But, again, there are a lot of missing details, this is just based on what we do know about her situation.

[RanTrac713]

If they opted out of the Survivor Benefit Plan, they get zero military retirement.

[Gulfcoast]

If they opted out of the Survivor Benefit Plan, they get zero military retirement.

If that was the case then her income would have dramatically changed 8 years ago when her husband died.

[Marathon Man]

Shame on you if you suggested she sell her house. This is not merely her house but her home. Being military it probably is the only one she has known. Did you notice her name. She maybe from Europe and married military man. And military pensions are not automatic the military person has to signup for it at time if retirement for their spouse and there is a monthly premium to be paid that is not cheap.
The residents of the villages many have a great deal of money and it would be the right thing to do to set up a fund to help her Having her move will add to her already difficult situation. Emotional and financial as moves are not cheap.

OH PLEASE. It is the correct advice. Large house with a pool in a prime location, and she can not afford to pay someone to mow the grass. This is a no brainer.

Any sympathy should be directed to the neighbors who have to live next to this woman's choices.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

A lot of advice, but no real help, welcome to Florida's friendliest hometown.

The real help is the advice given: sell the house and downsize. Her problem: she can't afford to live in her current home, and it requires updates and upgrades and repairs she can't pay for and will not be able to pay for in the forseeable future, or ever.

You don't put outside money on that kind of situation. You reduce the expense in that kind of situation. And the #1 way to reduce her expenses is for her to sell her house and downsize.

Her current home can fetch close to $400,000 on the current market. She needs someone to help her sell her home, and that won't happen until she reaches out to a licensed realtor.

The only thing we, on this forum can do, is make that suggestion. Especially since she isn't even the one posting asking for advice, and the person who did ask, doesn't even know this person.

[ken.yotz]

First of all, when they bought in '03 they had to qualify for their mortgage, if any. If they paid it through his death in '12, they have considerable equity. She needs a social worker who can recommend a financial advisor and any other assist she may need. It is likely this will do little good since the government intervention thus far has not motivated her. I sure would not like to live next door to what is depicted in the photo. In other cases that I have seen like this, physical or mental issues were involved and a social worker may help, if she is even willing to accept their assistance.

[EviesGP]

As has been stated, she would only receive about half of what his pension was, if he opted for the Survivor Benefit Plan. And, she would have had to sign that IF they were married when he filed that and/or retired? I'm wondering if that wasn't the case, and this is a second marriage? I signed mine(prior to second marriage), and it cost me about 10% of retirement(for both military and federal civil service). And I just had my house appraised(for refi), and it increased significantly since I purchased it 2yrs ago, so I'm sure that home is worth a bunch!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Well I am very serious, I am very experienced in these types of situations and I am more than happy to help out a woman in distress. If someone has her contact information, please give her my phone number 978-476-1342. If not, I suppose I can knock on her door and if that is the way it goes, I will keep you all posted on the outcome! Have a safe and happy Holiday season.

As long as you're considering being financially responsible until she dies, it sounds like a marvelous idea. But if you're not prepared to go that far, you could just be harming her.

She has no money to pay for FUTURE expenses. She can't pay the current ones, she can't pay the ones in the future.

So if you help her out today, you'll be fixing today's problems. Who is going to bail her out for the next set? Who will buy her hot water heater when it needs replacing? Who is going to clean her house when she's physically unable to do all that bending and mopping herself? She can't afford to pay $50 a month for someone to mow her lawn. Do you really think she can afford to pay someone to clean her house every week? With what money, if her income is depleted?

The #1 best possible thing she can do right now is downsize. She can still live in the Villages. Just not in that house. In her situation, at this moment, that house is a money sink. It will ultimately lead her to bankruptcy. A $400k house - will put her in the poorhouse, so to speak. She can make enough profit from it through downsizing to afford everything she needs. The additional money can be used, if she's prudent, to supplement her social security payments, in covering bills for years to come.

She can still live in a lovely house in the Villages, and enjoy whatever amenities she's able to enjoy. But the house has to be worth less, so that she can net that cushion of profit in the sale of her own.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Shame on you if you suggested she sell her house. This is not merely her house but her home. Being military it probably is the only one she has known. Did you notice her name. She maybe from Europe and married military man. And military pensions are not automatic the military person has to signup for it at time if retirement for their spouse and there is a monthly premium to be paid that is not cheap.
The residents of the villages many have a great deal of money and it would be the right thing to do to set up a fund to help her Having her move will add to her already difficult situation. Emotional and financial as moves are not cheap. she must be foreign born and homeless before she met her American husband REALLY?? We all would like things we don’t have , that doesn’t mean we get them or get to keep them I think a read somewhere in Army Times that there were safeguards for spouses when it came to pensions .I also find it insulting to all villagers who are generous to people and charities, to be called out that we have a lot of money and should be helping her live in her pool house . I’m 82 I downsized not because I couldn’t afford but because I didn’t need the bigger home , let her do it to

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

retired military pension stops at their death. Social security is probably minimal. She needs to fix her house in order to sell it. This might be too much for her to do alone. Maybe she has children or family members she can ask for help. so very very wrong

[Number 10 GI]

I’m a very soft touch for charities but this lady has a very nice pension coming in and who knows how much is in the house . I give to some go find me people but they usually have nothing because of some disaster or medical, even if there’s not much in the house she can find many inexpensive nice places to live on that pension and one poster is right where are her neighbors

The OP says her husband was a retired Colonel drawing a pension, but when a retired service member dies his pension ends. The wife receives nothing unless he enrolled in the Survivor Benefit Plan which is voluntary not mandatory. The way the plan works is that a military retiree pays a premium each month from his pension. The amount of the benefit paid to the spouse each month is based on how much the retiree pays into the fund each month. This premium can be quite expensive depending on how much of a benefit they determine the wife will need to live. Most military personnel don't enroll in this plan as the premiums are too expensive for the benefit received. Even at max participation the benefit is far less than the retired pay received by the service member.

[Kensan1]

I would help with fixing up the house myself if there are cosmetic thing I can do.

[Kensan1]

Also why not a reverse mortgage some of my friends took it out to help financially and it was a really big help for them

[Bogie Shooter]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.

All the responses that you have receive are good...but they are just good suggestions and will just be a list.
If you really want to help ( from your post don't know if you do or are looking for someone else to do it for you) she needs to be advised of available opportunities in our area to provide her guidance.
Elder care lawyers ( probably a big list in that phone book everybody threw away)
Here is a list from AARP in our area:
AARP Local Assistance Directory (https://local.aarpfoundation.org/search_results/32162)

[Number 10 GI]

That would be rare most retired military passes to spouse

I'm sorry but that is totally incorrect. When the military member dies the pension ends.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Well I am very serious, I am very experienced in these types of situations and I am more than happy to help out a woman in distress. If someone has her contact information, please give her my phone number 978-476-1342. If not, I suppose I can knock on her door and if that is the way it goes, I will keep you all posted on the outcome! Have a safe and happy Holiday season. be very careful about people who will approach her offerings to buy the house and let her live in it , I’m sure with all the publicity she’s being approached by many people who want to save her

[Dana1963]

The OP says her husband was a retired Colonel drawing a pension, but when a retired service member dies his pension ends. The wife receives nothing unless he enrolled in the Survivor Benefit Plan which is voluntary not mandatory. The way the plan works is that a military retiree pays a premium each month from his pension. The amount of the benefit paid to the spouse each month is based on how much the retiree pays into the fund each month. This premium can be quite expensive depending on how much of a benefit they determine the wife will need to live. Most military personnel don't enroll in this plan as the premiums are too expensive for the benefit received. Even at max participation the benefit is far less than the retired pay received by the service member.
As with any Survivors Benefit Plan to opt-out you must have spousal consent

[J1ceasar]

The Lady was NOT asking for help - She was giving a reason, that's her excuse. Who knows the real reason she has, maybe just lazyness or being the Woman of the house has no idea how to hire someone.

But otherwise agree - could sell and live nicely in a 1 or 2 bedroom apt. for $ 900 a month .. and cash out a lot.

[rmd2]

She gets her spouse's Social Security income, but she may not get a military pension. Her spouse could have opted out of the surviving spouse pension with her signature approval. Some spouses will sign this without even knowing what they are signing.

I believe the federal govt requires married couples to come in to personnel to have a consultation session before allowing them to sign off on no spousal support.

[brick010207]

These people are all talking to each other. I m signing up to go see her this afternoon.

[EdFNJ]

I looked it up too. She paid $283,000 in 2003. I agree with you. I would clean up what I could and sell it and get out from under the amenity fees and live smaller and cheaper somewhere close. I for one would do that far before I would allow a go fund me. You are wrong. You are not looking at the correct entry. The property wasn't even built/completed until March 1 2004. The initial building permit was issued on 12/1/2003 and completed on March 1, 2004 and purchased on 3/14/2004. You are probably looking at the property value before improvement (the home):

https://nvweb.marioncountyclerk.org/wb_or1/details.asp?doc_id=1670499&file_num=2004036267&doc_status=V

MCPA Property Record Card (http://www.pa.marion.fl.us/PRC.aspx?key=3248422&YR=2020&mName=False&mSitus=False)

This is the purchase document


https://i.ibb.co/nrrB4Z2/1.png (https://imgbb.com/)



https://i.ibb.co/KXLFnrV/2.png (https://ibb.co/qdWk6rm)

[Marathon Man]

Is anyone in touch with this woman? I would be happy to meet with her and potentially purchase the house and let her stay there and pay monthly rent. OR I would be willing to see what she is in need of and help her get workers scheduled and put up funds to get the work done. How do I get in touch with her? Kim Quintana 978-476-1342

If I knew her, no way would I recommend talking to someone offering this. Red flags all over the place.

[Stu from NYC]

She needs to see a financial counselor of some sort to review her financial situation and determine why she is in this situation.

Before this is done giving her money right now is just a temporary bandaid and kicking the can down the road.

She obviously has a lot more house than she can afford or take care of and will probably need to downsize but not enough info to determine this.

[shut the front door]

It's time for people to step up and help her.... it's what true neighbors are for, right?

So for how long are her neighbors expected to carry her load? She got in this predicament because she supposedly can't afford maintenance of her property. Sure, gather the neighbors to go fix it for her. Then they can continue to take care of her property until she dies?
Great solution.

[Carla B]

She gets 55% of his military retirement - a minimum of $43,000 ($23,600)
Plus Social Security- $35,000.
She needs someone to assist with ensuring she receives her entitlements.

Do you know this or is this a guess? She really needs a certified financial planner, but these are scarce around here, if any exist at all. Most are investment advisers or annuity salesmen, not planners. As mentioned in another post, an elder care attorney may be of help.

[Sherrilee]

If she is alone - without family assist or neighbors willing to help now is the time to look into independent or assisted living. She has new friends and activities

[Spalumbos62]

Life is full of mistakes and hardships we can't save everyone. Currently according to Zillow, there are 16 foreclosures in The Villages area who do you want to save next.

Wow......Santa...I know what you and that cold heart are getting for Xmas!
There is no doubt she needs assistance... not sure some strange knocking on a 70something's door to offer to buy the house to then rent back is the answer....seems like someone taking advantage of a bad situation.
if there were enough people really interested in helping they should organize a team to assess the whole situation. First and most importantly, talking to her.... what does she want, what opinions does she have, does she even want to stay here. Just blindly looking most likely is sell the house, take the proceeds and get a place on historic side with no bond.
With all this said....yes covid us probably the biggest obstacle here, but maybe just a friendly knock to start.
And yes, I would do it if I could, but because of covid I can't comfortably get down to my place and we'll ride out this pending Nor -easter while my home in warm Fl calls my name.
Fingers crossed.

[KRM0614]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.
There are other methods of contributing ! Gofundme takes a big chunk for themselves

[KRM0614]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?
Zillow is inaccurate

[HIgolfers]

That would be rare most retired military passes to spouse

Agreed. In fact, if you choose not to, the non-military spouse has to sign a form agreeing to that. But the pension amount to the surviving spouse is less so that may account for some financial difficulty.

[JimJohnson]

I highly recommend she sell and downsize to something she can afford before she loses any remaining equity and finds herself in 8A housing. I would gladly help her move and help her sell this house voluntarily and free of any charge, but I would not give a penny for someone to keep a home with a pool and a golf course view that they cannot afford.

[Villageswimmer]

I think this whole situation is sad. Posters offering unsolicited advice, speculating on her financial situation, virtue signaling.

This all amounts to a gross violation of her privacy. Her name and other personal information should never have been made public. I hope she doesn’t read this board.

[Stu from NYC]

I think this whole situation is sad. Posters offering unsolicited advice, speculating on her financial situation, virtue signaling.

This all amounts to a gross violation of her privacy. Her name and other personal information should never have been made public. I hope she doesn’t read this board.

At least she is getting some advise but agreed her name should not have been made public.

[jaj523]

She may or MAY NOT have a pension coming in. Military members opt for survivor benefits or NOT while they are active duty. If they opt for survivor benefits, they get less take-home pay. Some choose for the higher paycheck and forego the survivor benefits.

[DAVES]

I read this story and it’s been bothering me all day. Her husband was military till he died and she needs help to bring her house up to standards. She seems like a great candidate for a Go Fund me page but I have no experience with that. Do you? Any ideas? There but for the Grace of God...Merry Christmas?



A Villager is claiming her loss of supplemental income is making upkeep at her home too expensive for her to afford.

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

A complaint about missing lanai screens and weeds was lodged against her property Oct. 13 with Community Standards. The violation was verified the following day.

Rickard’s husband, a retired Air Force colonel, died in 2012. They moved to The Villages in 2003. The house in Calumet Grove was built in 2004 and they were its first and only occupants.

In the years since her husband’s death, Rickard has fallen on hard times.

She said her supplemental income from retirement has been depleted

“I have no other way of making any money,” the 76-year-old told the CDD 4 board.

She had to trim back on her landscaping budget to save money and friends from her church have been helping her pull weeds.

On Tuesday, she signed an agreement with a contractor who can replace the screens in her lanai. But the contractor is “backed up” and can’t get to her job for 12 to 14 weeks.

Rickard said she understood she could be fined if the work isn’t performed in a timely manner.

“I had to borrow money to have the screens replaced. I cannot afford a daily fine,” she said.

Supervisor Don Deakin urged Rickard to get other competitive bids and potentially use them to spur her chosen contractor to move up the job on his priority list.

CDD 4 Board Chairman Jim Murphy reminded Rickard that she has a responsibility to “keep up the property.”

By a unanimous vote of the board, she was given 45 days to bring the property into compliance. If she fails to do so, she will face an initial $150 fine followed by $50 daily fines.

I am thankful that I do not need to make such decisions. The reason why I would not accept any position where I would need to make such decisions,

I expect there are missing details. Borrow money to have the screens done? Doesn't sound like she can possibly pay it back. Contractor can't do her screens for 12-14 weeks. Sounds like it is more than just replacing the screens. I would think as far as management they are not out to get people. I would hope that if she can show that she has an agreement to have the screens they would grant her an extension. I also expect the management did not look to catch her neighbors have complained.

I am not a financial advisor. She might explore one of those home equity deals. They are expensive but she could raise the money she needs and keep living in her home.
Perhaps, a relative would agree to a similar deal where she could stay in the home?

It is a sad situation-truly sad.

[pcacace]

What about a reverse mortgage? There is probably a lot of equity in the home.

[JGVillages]

Since members of her church are helping her pull weeds, as the original story stated, it is curious the church membership isn’t more involved in helping find a reasonable solution.

[larbud]

Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

The seller of same is who it helps..

[graciegirl]

Zillow is inaccurate

I think if you read all of the estimates by realtor.com, Zillow etc. they come pretty close to what the house will sell for.

I wonder if the woman is impaired if she is living in such an expensive way and there is a relatively easy way out. I am not trying to be insensitive. It looks like a bad situation only getting worse when she could list it and sell it and live cheaper somewhere else. Maybe she is unable to make decisions. I don't know what happens when there is no family to guide one. Is this a matter for social workers?

[rphil11ort]

Depending on the equity in the house she may consider taking a reverse mortgage to help her get through it. If she wants to discuss it I although do not do reverse mortgage s can discuss it with her. Over 37 years in the mortgage business. And I bought my home using a reverse

[nick demis]

Sounds like a prime candidate for a reverse mortgage.

[NavyVet]

This situation is very sad and we all sympathize. I'm sure nobody expects to lose a spouse so soon into retirement. None of us can know who will live outlive who or for how long. That's why it is so critical for good financial/retirement planning, both for worst case scenario and different contingencies.
When my spouse retired after 20+ years service, we decided together to turn down the SBP. We found it quite pricey for the benefits received, especially since it banked on the spouse outliving the retiree by a lot of years to make it worth the cost. What we did was take that same premium amount and bought really good life insurance policies on both of us and invested the rest on our own. My spouse made sure that whenever the time comes that something happens to him, I'd be taken care of, something he learned from his father. Either one of us left behind will 'downsize' when that time comes. It's being practical versus an overly sentimental attachment to a house.
That said, we know very little facts, just a lot of guessing. However, the situation is just not sustainable as it is. The homeowner apparently cannot afford to keep and maintain this large home with a pool on the golf course by herself. Is the pool ever even used? Let's say hypothetically she puts the house up for sale. If there is no money for repairs, then the house would have to sell as is, which means she will not get top dollar and have to settle for a lower price. However, there are many adorable patio villas and cottages for less than half that which would leave her some money leftover to live on for a while, a fresh start so to speak, or even moving outside TV that would be even cheaper. There are many of us who can't afford a pool home on a golf course. I agree with posters that said throwing money at the immediate issues is just a short term fix and doesn't help in the long run. There are too many unknowns; are there any family/relatives? How much can the church or neighbors help out and for how long? Maybe there are cognitive issues, not uncommon at that age. Perhaps there are physical limitations to prevent taking care of so much home. What we do know is this did not happen yesterday or overnight. The spouse passed 8 years ago. People bite off more than they can chew all the time with a big house and then are cash poor. Then one partner loses a job, or gets sick, or dies, losing the income needed to pay the bills - it's just not sustainable.
It makes me think of another possibility; my parents had a thing for many years known as "decision paralysis." Any time there was anything that needed a decision, a choice, or a course of action, they were incapable of making the decision, big or small. Instead of choosing, they would do nothing; they'd stick their heads in the sand and ignore it, hoping it would go away. Not committing to a course of action is in itself a 'choice.' They would always wait until the choice was taken out of their hands. It was so frustrating. It is difficult to help anyone who does not want to accept help, even when providing solutions to a problem. Just saying there might not be much people can do other than to try and point a person in the right direction for financial counseling/budgeting, APS, social worker, elder law, etc.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

There are other methods of contributing ! Gofundme takes a big chunk for themselves and there was another 2.9% for another agent not a bad bang for your buck when you look at most charities, but they just announced that they will stop taking the 5% they do good work , they got hit with bad press after that homeless vet scam went public blew up all over the news but what was much less publicized was that go fund me payed back every donor they have helped many people lots of success stories

[graciegirl]

I am with you two. Parading someone else’s personal information, identity, and financial vulnerability on the internet is just plain wrong.

This thread needs to go beyond closing. This thread needs to completely disappear. It is growing arms and legs and could do more harm than good.

I am equally as appalled by people asking for help or financial aid for their causes and presenting a story for a "Go Fund Me.".

I think that many Go fund me's are private money makers for the person reporting a sad situation about another. There is nothing wrong for people checking information when folks are asking for money. If this person is in dire straits and allowing her nice home to fall into serious failure, it is not a simple, give her money or organize a committee. I am tired of hearing of those kinds of solutions and tired of others thinking that people want pity or a handout. That is why I said that she must have something amiss that is not allowing her to see the reality of her situation. I imagine her neighbors know and well may have tried to help.

I agree that it can't be solved here but as many others have said it appears her home is worth enough to sell and to find a less expensive place to live. To me that is a simple solution, that most people would choose to do.

There is nothing creepy about doing a few clicks to see just what is going on.

[EdFNJ]

Doxxing is a hobby among some folks on this forum, and others.

Despicable, disgusting, inappropriate, and creepy as it may be. Actually this really isn't what "doxing" is. This is someone asking to give money to someone and without finding the details it could also be "scamming." Doxing is generally done with malicious intent and obtained via hacking to expose someone one doesn't like in which case it is likely illegal. The info posted in the first post is public record and wasn't obtained by hacking or illegal means. However in this specific case someone is asking for financial help for someone allegedly in need and for the most part this case it is actually doing one's due diligence.

It seems like the OP posted this based on knowledge of this person who needs help. The OP should clear up whether he posted this with or without the persons permissions. SEEMS LIKE it was prearranged between OP and the lady in question. If not the thread should be removed.

[TCLaD]

She gets 55% of his military retirement - a minimum of $43,000 ($23,600)
Plus Social Security- $35,000.
She needs someone to assist with ensuring she receives her entitlements.

You do not know this.

[NavyVet]

Actually this really isn't what "doxing" is. This is someone asking to give money to someone and without finding the details it could also be "scamming." Doxing is generally done with malicious intent and obtained via hacking to expose someone one doesn't like in which case it is likely illegal. The info posted in the first post is public record and wasn't obtained by hacking or illegal means. However in this specific case someone is asking for financial help for someone allegedly in need and for the most part this case it is actually doing one's due diligence.

It seems like the OP posted this based on knowledge of this person who needs help. The OP should clear up whether he posted this with or without the persons permissions. SEEMS LIKE it was prearranged between OP and the lady in question. If not the thread should be removed.

Thank you for providing the correct definition of 'doxing.'

[TCLaD]

Finally, someone that knows the system facts

[big guy]

I looked it up too. She paid $283,000 in 2003. I agree with you. I would clean up what I could and sell it and get out from under the amenity fees and live smaller and cheaper somewhere close. I for one would do that far before I would allow a go fund me.
It appears she needs a financial advisor more than anything.

[big guy]

That is in line with what my mother got when my father died and he was a government employee.

[Eg_cruz]

Is anyone in touch with this woman? I would be happy to meet with her and potentially purchase the house and let her stay there and pay monthly rent. OR I would be willing to see what she is in need of and help her get workers scheduled and put up funds to get the work done. How do I get in touch with her? Kim Quintana 978-476-1342
She has no mortgage and low income. How would she be able to rent from you. She needs to sell out right and down size or do a reverse mortgage if she just can seem to sell

[mysunshine1948]

Just so you all know, Go Fund Me takes a considerable amount in fees.

[msilagy]

House should have been sold when commitments weren't met - why should people have to bail someone out for not making good decisions?

[ruralgoddess]

Where are her neighbors ?
Where are the rest of us?????????

Have you ever paid off someone's debts? I have.

[ruralgoddess]

House should have been sold when commitments weren't met - why should people have to bail someone out for not making good decisions?
such compassion is overwhelming.

[graciegirl]

such compassion is overwhelming.

That isn't fair. Or kind. Money is a powerful helping tool if we use it carefully and wisely. It is not a lack of compassion to question these matters. Wasting money is not helpful to anyone.

[Ghancock]

Can I get her phone no. To tell her I am trying to line up someone now who did ours and was reasonable. Or tell her Antonio Mendez says he can stop by tomorrow and give an estimate. And he would do the work on the weekend. This is Gayle Hancock 352-801-3832

[pcacace]

Selling and getting a patio villa makes the best sense. Less space to take care of and lots of cash in the bank.

[Paporter]

There are too many unanswered questions. Go Fund Me is not the solution.
1. Is this woman mentally competent, does she need a guardian ordered by a Judge?
2. Does she have family, who would protect her interests, in refinancing, helping to bring her home up to code and with financial matters? A trusted friend or advisor?
3. The Vietnam Veterans Club could help navigate or give direction to the investigation of discontinued benefits. And determine if additional benefits may be available.
4. She maybe entitled to County and/or State benefits based on her annual income.
What Agencies are available in the Tri-County area that could assist?
5. There are many senior programs via the State of Florida. See Florida Resource Directory - Aging.com.

Blessings to all.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Just so you all know, Go Fund Me takes a considerable amount in fees. they take 2.9% much better then charities

[kimaquintana@aol.com]

If no one has personally spoken with her to find out what the facts are regarding her finances and lack of maintaining the property than everything posted on this thread is assumption. I have been helping distressed people with their properties for almost 3 decades and I am a licensed Realtor in 2 states which is "law based". My comments are based on "willing to help" and not knowing what the end result answers are until I am able to have a conversation with the home owner. I also "tithe" weekly/monthly/yearly as my way of giving back or paying it forward in appreciation for my financially blessed life. My comments are offered with a pure intent and trying to think outside of the ordinary to help someone who appears to need help. Maybe she does not want help, I do not know. No one can come up with the answer for her until they speak with her.

[kimaquintana@aol.com]

It's not about "saving" her, this post was originally written by someone with a compassion for someone who seems to be in distress and I also, a person of compassion have offered to help with either fixing the house for her at my expense or purchasing the house and letting her live out the remaining time of her life without pressure. Simple and sincere. Not everyone is shady just an FYI.

[kimaquintana@aol.com]

So you would not recommend someone offering to pay for her lanai to be fixed without asking the woman to pay it back? There are still good people in the world who have a sincere motivation to help someone in distress. It's clear that I will keep my opinion to myself and will continue to help people whenever I can and however I can. It was an offer to help.

[perrjojo]

I understand everyone’s desire to help but if she can not afford to maintain the property now, she will not be able to maintain it after it has been brought into compliance. Fixing her property is only a temporary solution to what seems a long term problem.

[Rosie1950]

She gets 55% of his military retirement - a minimum of $43,000 ($23,600)
Plus Social Security- $35,000.
She needs someone to assist with ensuring she receives her entitlements.
I could be wrong, but I do not believe that to be true.
First- the woman said “he was IN the military until he passed”. That would indicate HE was NOT retired.
Second- I do believe pension benefits STOP upon death. According to these posts he was active, so pension is a moot point.
HE needed to sign up for SBP ( survivor benefit plan) which is an insurance plan geared towards the spouse not being left high and dry. They can insure their spouse OR their children for up to 55% of their earnings. It depends on how much u want to spend on this insurance. If he had , had multiple spouses he had to choose one or the other.
Third- how did u come up with his SS benefits, last I heard that was not public info

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Actually this really isn't what "doxing" is. This is someone asking to give money to someone and without finding the details it could also be "scamming." Doxing is generally done with malicious intent and obtained via hacking to expose someone one doesn't like in which case it is likely illegal. The info posted in the first post is public record and wasn't obtained by hacking or illegal means. However in this specific case someone is asking for financial help for someone allegedly in need and for the most part this case it is actually doing one's due diligence.

It seems like the OP posted this based on knowledge of this person who needs help. The OP should clear up whether he posted this with or without the persons permissions. SEEMS LIKE it was prearranged between OP and the lady in question. If not the thread should be removed.

Doxxing: search for and publish private or identifying information about (a particular individual) on the internet, typically with malicious intent.

The original letter, which was published on another website, was someone publishing someone else's identifying information (their name, address, marital status, the fact that they can't afford their home). The original post on THIS website (talk of the villages) took that personally identifying information that had been published somewhere else, and made absolutely SURE that it continued to be published, by spreading the information.

That, by definition, is doxxing. The "malicious intent" is "typically" not "always." Definitions are pretty precise. When a definition includes "typically" it's because whatever follows the word is not universally true.

And yes Gracie - clicking a few clicks IS absolutely positively doxxing, when you post (thereby publishing) the results of those clicks. You're one of the people who do it on a regular basis, so of course you won't recognize it for what it is.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

If no one has personally spoken with her to find out what the facts are regarding her finances and lack of maintaining the property than everything posted on this thread is assumption. I have been helping distressed people with their properties for almost 3 decades and I am a licensed Realtor in 2 states which is "law based". My comments are based on "willing to help" and not knowing what the end result answers are until I am able to have a conversation with the home owner. I also "tithe" weekly/monthly/yearly as my way of giving back or paying it forward in appreciation for my financially blessed life. My comments are offered with a pure intent and trying to think outside of the ordinary to help someone who appears to need help. Maybe she does not want help, I do not know. No one can come up with the answer for her until they speak with her. at that address in Nigeria??

[wmcgowan]

According to Zillow, the house is worth $554K. The obvious possible solutions are to either get a mortgage on the house and use the cash to pay bills, or to sell the house and buy a less expensive house or get a rental. The missing information is what is her equity in the house?

that is a huge house - time to sell and move to an affordable unit

[Gulfcoast]

I am not familiar with the senior Independent Living and AL apartments in TV but there are senior living communities that offer assistance with moves. Buffalo Crossing mentions Senior Move Managers (SMMs) on their website. Again, I am not familiar with the senior living facilities in TV, I have no idea how much move assistance would cost but it might be something worth looking into.

[EdFNJ]

Doxxing:

The original letter, which was published on another website, was someone publishing someone else's identifying information (their name, address, marital status, the fact that they can't afford their home). The original post on THIS website (talk of the villages) took that personally identifying information that had been published somewhere else, and made absolutely SURE that it continued to be published, by spreading the information.

That, by definition, is doxxing. The "malicious intent" is "typically" not "always." Definitions are pretty precise. When a definition includes "typically" it's because whatever follows the word is not universally true.

And yes Gracie - clicking a few clicks IS absolutely positively doxxing, when you post (thereby publishing) the results of those clicks. You're one of the people who do it on a regular basis, so of course you won't recognize it for what it is.

Usually I agree with your posts but on this I guess we'll have to agree to disagree. :D That being said, "DOXING" on 99.9% of internet forums IS MEANT to be malicious. This thread was not. The "URBAN DICTIONARY" pretty much has it right: Urban Dictionary: doxxing (https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=doxxing) as it started on the internet or Wikipedia Doxing - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxing) Yea, there are exceptions of course but (IMO) this thread isn't close to being doxing.

[Chitown]

I would be willing to donate a fairly large sum of money to help this woman but I would first need to be guaranteed that I can visit the home and see for myself and talk to the woman before I would give her money.

[tvbound]

We had a neighbor who lost her husband of 50+ years and come to find out, he had taken care of all of their financial and day-to-day issues. She asked my wife to help her and come to find out, the husband did most of the bill paying and banking online, but hadn't even provided his computer challenged wife with any of the passwords. It was a complete mess. My wife spent days helping her understand how to do everything from paying utility bills (reverted to snail mail), to how to write a check correctly, as she had always just used a credit card and had no clue as to what happened after that. Although it's hard to know in this case, it could be possible that the lady in the OP might be in a similar situation (although probably not after rereading the first post, given that her husband passed away quite a while ago) and just doesn't know how, or what, she needed to do to keep out of this tough situation. While I certainly have empathy for this lady, surely there has to be a trusted relative or local group that could sit down with her to try and figure out all of her options and let her choose the one(s) that she wants to take? Not to try and sound cold or uncaring, but I never donate to these types of go-fund-me causes unless I know the person and their situation very well. Especially since I've seen the children and grandchildren of friends, setting up these fund me causes so that they could go on a vacation.

[Gulfcoast]

We had a neighbor who lost her husband of 50+ years and come to find out, he had taken care of all of their financial and day-to-day issues. She asked my wife to help her and come to find out, the husband did most of the bill paying and banking online, but hadn't even provided his computer challenged wife with any of the passwords. It was a complete mess. My wife spent days helping her understand how to do everything from paying utility bills (reverted to snail mail), to how to write a check correctly, as she had always just used a credit card and had no clue as to what happened after that. Although it's hard to know in this case, it could be possible that the lady in the OP might be in a similar situation (although probably not after rereading the first post, given that her husband passed away quite a while ago) and just doesn't know how, or what, she needed to do to keep out of this tough situation. While I certainly have empathy for this lady, surely there has to be a trusted relative or local group that could sit down with her to try and figure out all of her options and let her choose the one(s) that she wants to take? Not to try and sound cold or uncaring, but I never donate to these types of go-fund-me causes unless I know the person and their situation very well. Especially since I've seen the children and grandchildren of friends, setting up these fund me causes so that they could go on a vacation.

These are really good points. But, like you said, if this had been going on for 8 months that would be one thing but 8 YEARS - yikes. This situation didn't happen all of a sudden. She has somehow managed to keep all of the balls in the air enough to stay in the house so she must have some sense of what she can/can not afford to do.

It really does sound as though she's simply become overwhelmed by the maintenance of the home. When she and her husband moved into the house it was brand new, the plants in the yard were small and easy to manage and her husband was there to help with it all. Now, her husband has been gone for 8 years, there are more maintenance/repair issues to deal with and she likely has been living on a smaller income since his death. On the bright side, her home has appreciated nicely which should, hopefully, give her some options going forward.

[Villageswimmer]

Doxxing:

The original letter, which was published on another website, was someone publishing someone else's identifying information (their name, address, marital status, the fact that they can't afford their home). The original post on THIS website (talk of the villages) took that personally identifying information that had been published somewhere else, and made absolutely SURE that it continued to be published, by spreading the information.

That, by definition, is doxxing. The "malicious intent" is "typically" not "always." Definitions are pretty precise. When a definition includes "typically" it's because whatever follows the word is not universally true.

And yes Gracie - clicking a few clicks IS absolutely positively doxxing, when you post (thereby publishing) the results of those clicks. You're one of the people who do it on a regular basis, so of course you won't recognize it for what it is.


Just my opinion, but the egregious invasion of privacy, completely unfounded speculation about her personal/financial situation, and gossip generated by post after post IS malicious.

[DON10E]

Is anyone in touch with this woman? I would be happy to meet with her and potentially purchase the house and let her stay there and pay monthly rent. OR I would be willing to see what she is in need of and help her get workers scheduled and put up funds to get the work done. How do I get in touch with her? Kim Quintana 978-476-1342

That would be great!

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

That was from a news story in one of the outlets. Thank you!

Please keep me posted on your progress/outcome!

[DON10E]

Life is full of mistakes and hardships we can't save everyone. Currently according to Zillow, there are 16 foreclosures in The Villages area who do you want to save next.

Not being able to save all is not a reason to save none.

[Steve&Nancy]

She may qualify for a "reverse mortgage" up to 50% of the equity she has in the property. This money is tax free, and is repaid from her estate when she's gone. There may not be anything to leave the kids, but she could be comfortable while she can.

[Velvet]

Not being able to save all is not a reason to save none.

You are right, it is appreciated that this incident is brought to our notice. My personal response is that I like to evaluate which charities I help. And it is good to know who needs help directly. Thank you.

[Spalumbos62]

I am equally as appalled by people asking for help or financial aid for their causes and presenting a story for a "Go Fund Me.".

I think that many Go fund me's are private money makers for the person reporting a sad situation about another. There is nothing wrong for people checking information when folks are asking for money. If this person is in dire straits and allowing her nice home to fall into serious failure, it is not a simple, give her money or organize a committee. I am tired of hearing of those kinds of solutions and tired of others thinking that people want pity or a handout. That is why I said that she must have something amiss that is not allowing her to see the reality of her situation. I imagine her neighbors know and well may have tried to help.

I agree that it can't be solved here but as many others have said it appears her home is worth enough to sell and to find a less expensive place to live. To me that is a simple solution, that most people would choose to do.

There is nothing creepy about doing a few clicks to see just what is going on.

GRACIE..I agree with most if what you just said...I do think "go fund me" is someone taking advantage....BUT doing a few clicks to see what is go I need on....that is straight up nosiness.....Gladys Kravitz.
Please don't tell me you gave binoculars by your front window too. Js

[DON10E]

Can I get her phone no. To tell her I am trying to line up someone now who did ours and was reasonable. Or tell her Antonio Mendez says he can stop by tomorrow and give an estimate. And he would do the work on the weekend. This is Gayle Hancock 352-801-3832

All I have is the article in the News. I don't know her personally. I'd give you the link to the article but I guess that's blocked here.

[DON10E]

Thank you all for some really good ideas. The comments here made it clear to me that Go Fund Me is probably not the right answer. Sometimes the right answer starts with the wrong answer. I think some of the folks here have volunteered to contact her and offer advice/help. I hope they'll keep us posted on their progress.

BTW, I don't know the woman personally and this isn't a scam. I was just bothered by the situation I read about and wanted to help. I'm grateful for the obvious compassion shown by so many. I'm proud to live in a community with so much to offer each other.

Merry Christmas!

[retiredguy123]

That would be great!

The home of Ingrid Rickard at 16558 SE 77th Northridge Court in the Village of Calumet Grove was the subject of a public hearing Friday before the Community Development District 4 Board of Supervisors.

That was from a news story in one of the outlets. Thank you!

Please keep me posted on your progress/outcome!
You may think it is great to have someone come to the person's house to negotiate a sales price and lease agreement, but I think it is a bad idea. If she wants to sell the house, the way to do it is to get a market analysis, hire a real estate agent, and list it for sale to the public.

[Spalumbos62]

So you would not recommend someone offering to pay for her lanai to be fixed without asking the woman to pay it back? There are still good people in the world who have a sincere motivation to help someone in distress. It's clear that I will keep my opinion to myself and will continue to help people whenever I can and however I can. It was an offer to help.

Well...you did come on a little strong saying you could buy her out and then rent back.
Honestly, if this was my grandmother and she was getting this offer from you, I would tell her to run for the hills .
But, truth be told, the thread should not have ever even started....... the only way this became anyone's business is because of the town posting the situation and now people are deciding what she should be getting monthly from the army.... planning on buying her house and making her a tennant, fixing her birdcage....back off folks...let her decide.
I bet its been no stop door traffic since this post....the poor thing.

[retiredguy123]

Well...you did come on a little strong saying you could buy her out and then rent back.
Honestly, if this was my grandmother and she was getting this offer from you, I would tell her to run for the hills .
But, truth be told, the thread should not have ever even started....... the only way this became anyone's business is because of the town posting the situation and now people are deciding what she should be getting monthly from the army.... planning on buying her house and making her a tennant, fixing her birdcage....back off folks...let her decide.
I bet its been no stop door traffic since this post....the poor thing.
I agree. Any investor would buy the house and lease it back for the right price. But, who is going to negotiate on her behalf?

[Alaska Butch]

She gets at most 1/2 her husbands retirement plus whatever social security. Probably over $5000 a month total I am guessing. The couple should have planned better. This story played out with my Mom. Over spending to the tune of $3000 a month. Reality check. You will run out of money in five years Mom. Got her to back off on her gratiitous spending and live within her means. Her principle is not touched now. i suggest this lady needs to sit down with a financial counselor.

[vintageogauge]

The woman does have a daughter, don't know how close they are but that should be the first person to help her get straightened out. Maybe she doesn't visit her here and doesn't know the situation.

[Topspinmo]

You may be right, but her husband’s pension may have ended at his death. Not enough info.

Depends if he had surviver benefits setup Nd of course when he retired? I would think full bird colonel would planned for that? People not going keep her in life style she’s use to, she has to down size it she can’t afford to live there. After 8 years she probably exhausted all good neighbor labor?

[macawlaw]

First, has anyone contacted the local counsel on aging? I don't know what is available near TV, but I have dealt with several in Ohio. They should have a representative who can come in, assess the situation, and hook the troubled lady up with the appropriate services. I have always found the counsel on aging to be very helpful. Around here they have services to help clean and repair homes that are provided on a sliding scale. Something like this could be of considerable help to her. Even if they don't come to the house, they should have a list of trusted, reasonable professionals for her to use.

Second, is there any evidence of any type of elder abuse by relatives, etc? If so, the county department of human services can step in and help out.

Since we are not yet retired, we are in and out. We will be there Dec 19-Jan 2. I'll volunteer my two kids (young, flexible, and strong) and come myself if there's a work day at her home to help out while we are at TV.

[vintageogauge]

Why not just have someone contact her daughter and see what she has to say, she can be hiding things from her and it's quite possible that she doesn't know what is happening with her mother. That should be the first step in resolving the problems.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’m amazed that there are so many people praising this Kim person who may be who she says she is , but maybe she is not , this is the same group of people who see scams everywhere and talk about bolting there doors band arming themselves. I’m sure with all the publicity she has many sharks swimming around her home what she doesn’t need is people knocking on her door. What she might need is a good lawyer or good realtor , or just maybe be left alone

[Gulfcoast]

I’m amazed that there are so many people praising this Kim person who may be who she says she is , but maybe she is not , this is the same group of people who see scams everywhere and talk about bolting there doors band arming themselves. I’m sure with all the publicity she has many sharks swimming around her home what she doesn’t need is people knocking on her door. What she might need is a good lawyer or good realtor , or just maybe be left alone

I agree, it sounds as though she is quite capable of representing herself in court. Her only obligation is to keep her home up to community standards. The rest is all speculation.

[Dgizzi]

Where are her neighbors ?
Why should her neighbors be obligated to help her? And maybe they can’t. You can’t “expect” or assume your neighbors can or will help you. We did that the first 55 and older place we lived at and got taken advantage of!

[Topspinmo]

She gets at most 1/2 her husbands retirement plus whatever social security. Probably over $5000 a month total I am guessing. The couple should have planned better. This story played out with my Mom. Over spending to the tune of $3000 a month. Reality check. You will run out of money in five years Mom. Got her to back off on her gratiitous spending and live within her means. Her principle is not touched now. i suggest this lady needs to sit down with a financial counselor.


I don’t know how officer retirement works, I sure they get more benefits than enlisted, the few always get more especially when federal government involved. I can tell how enlisted works. You have donate some of you retirement check for survivors benefits and it’s quit chuck for 1/2 survivors benefits for the spouse, or spouse don’t get any of the retirement when other dies. The half million house comes with extreme expenses especially in Marion country. I don’t think it fair cause the spouse gives up career with moving every 3 to 7 years.

[Pairadocs]

Family?

Family, unfortunately, is not always the answer for many. Of course it works for some, but I also know of many situations where it's not possible. It seems the legal/governmental answer, when people have very little money, no job, no prospects for a job, and in "our" collective wisdom, we fine them MORE. Have seen this done to the homeless, the indigent, RAISE the fines, that will solve it, charge them MORE. Of course it's a problem here, we don't want our property diminished by the neglect of others either, but in a community of people this age, there could be some mental "slippage", may be no adult children to run in and be the heroes, my be adult children who are unemployed in these times, may be drug or alcohol addicts, who knows. But compassion, understanding, and maybe even "someone" willing to sit down and talk, just be a friend, help with the decisions (and yes, a less expensive piece of property is one possible answer, but just RAISE the fine as our politicians almost always come up with, in reality, does not solve the problem. This woman needs guidance, some support, and NO, I am not just some "bleeding heart", sometimes people just need an understanding person to help guide them to solutions, not MORE FINES. It could happen to ANY of us... people tend to forget that !

[Pairadocs]

There's no reason why she should even still be living in that house, other than sentimental stubbornness. She could sell it for $350,000, far below whatever Zillow claims it's worth, "as is," buy a smaller home in the Spanish Springs area for around $200,000. With the profits she can afford to hire a professional mover, pay the amenity fees, and hire a lawn and pesticide guy for the next 5 years. She'd have plenty left over for taxes and to supplement whatever her Social Security income is.

Yep, it's all so simple ! But, maybe, just maybe, it sometimes seems (mentally) just insurmountable. Maybe, just maybe, she needs a GENUINE, caring, friend, not to solve it all for her, but to support her through this. I heard from a relative about a group where she lives in Arizona who does just that. They are a group in her retirement area that are committed to just being a friend in this kind of circumstance, not bail the person out financially, but some widowers and windows have no children, some have children who are not employed, ill, drug addicted, etc. and can not help, so the organization is just dedicated to being a friend when you are in need of someone to listen, understand, and help you make a plan to do what needs to be done (such as selling, buying a smaller place, finding an affordable senior residence sometimes, just not being alone in making decisions that confuse and overwhelm). People DO get mental fatigue and need support.

[Pairadocs]

I would be willing to donate a fairly large sum of money to help this woman but I would first need to be guaranteed that I can visit the home and see for myself and talk to the woman before I would give her money.

Someone mentioned she needed a financial advisor, I think she may just need one or two GOOD friends, not a paid advisor. Sometimes things can seem just insurmountable, but with some good friendship and support, one CAN push ahead. Remember, just listing, showings, packing, moving, etc. can be excruciating if one is not in top mental condition. I wonder if the VA has any services that would just be as simple as a little informal counseling and just being with here to talk to various real estate agents, make a plan, etc. Even a church that has free counseling services that are more "friendship" oriented than "professional" maybe ?

[Pairadocs]

Selling and getting a patio villa makes the best sense. Less space to take care of and lots of cash in the bank.

Agree, but, she may need someone, a "REAL" friend who cares, to guide her through that. As for cash in the bank ? She might not have a great deal of equity, if she also goes through an agent, could come out with nothing ! Don't know of course. Good friends could sure help a lot just to be there for her.

[Pairadocs]

This situation is very sad and we all sympathize. I'm sure nobody expects to lose a spouse so soon into retirement. None of us can know who will live outlive who or for how long. That's why it is so critical for good financial/retirement planning, both for worst case scenario and different contingencies.
When my spouse retired after 20+ years service, we decided together to turn down the SBP. We found it quite pricey for the benefits received, especially since it banked on the spouse outliving the retiree by a lot of years to make it worth the cost. What we did was take that same premium amount and bought really good life insurance policies on both of us and invested the rest on our own. My spouse made sure that whenever the time comes that something happens to him, I'd be taken care of, something he learned from his father. Either one of us left behind will 'downsize' when that time comes. It's being practical versus an overly sentimental attachment to a house.
That said, we know very little facts, just a lot of guessing. However, the situation is just not sustainable as it is. The homeowner apparently cannot afford to keep and maintain this large home with a pool on the golf course by herself. Is the pool ever even used? Let's say hypothetically she puts the house up for sale. If there is no money for repairs, then the house would have to sell as is, which means she will not get top dollar and have to settle for a lower price. However, there are many adorable patio villas and cottages for less than half that which would leave her some money leftover to live on for a while, a fresh start so to speak, or even moving outside TV that would be even cheaper. There are many of us who can't afford a pool home on a golf course. I agree with posters that said throwing money at the immediate issues is just a short term fix and doesn't help in the long run. There are too many unknowns; are there any family/relatives? How much can the church or neighbors help out and for how long? Maybe there are cognitive issues, not uncommon at that age. Perhaps there are physical limitations to prevent taking care of so much home. What we do know is this did not happen yesterday or overnight. The spouse passed 8 years ago. People bite off more than they can chew all the time with a big house and then are cash poor. Then one partner loses a job, or gets sick, or dies, losing the income needed to pay the bills - it's just not sustainable.
It makes me think of another possibility; my parents had a thing for many years known as "decision paralysis." Any time there was anything that needed a decision, a choice, or a course of action, they were incapable of making the decision, big or small. Instead of choosing, they would do nothing; they'd stick their heads in the sand and ignore it, hoping it would go away. Not committing to a course of action is in itself a 'choice.' They would always wait until the choice was taken out of their hands. It was so frustrating. It is difficult to help anyone who does not want to accept help, even when providing solutions to a problem. Just saying there might not be much people can do other than to try and point a person in the right direction for financial counseling/budgeting, APS, social worker, elder law, etc.

So well said ! Many can't think past their own circumstances and experiences.... RAISE her fines, that will do it, CALL HER KIDS, that will do it, TELL her to MOVE, that will do it....... thank you for demonstrating there are thinking people on this site who understand beyond their own door step. God bless you

[Pairadocs]

Home equity is the key, particularly at 73. She may qualify for second mortgage or a reverse mortgage. Some one she trusts and knows this stuff should accompany her.

yes, she needs a real friend to help and support her through this for sure !

[Pettys1]

I think Zillow is way off (too high) with that estimate. We sold our previous home in Calumet Grove last March and Zillow says it is worth $90k more than we sold it for. It is not.

Zillow says they paid $381,500 in 2004. (That seems high to me but I could be wrong.) In any case, I would guess her home might be worth in the mid- to high-400's, depending on condition. If it hasn't been updated at all (which is likely, if her husband passed away 8 years ago) it could be worth less. She might have some equity in the house but not what it might seem like if you go by Zillow.

I agree that she should probably sell it and buy something much smaller. One person doesn't need 2200+ sq. ft. She may not have anyone nearby (adult kids or grandkids) to help her with packing up/moving out of a home where she has lived for 16 years and listing it for sale. Or she may be reluctant to leave the home where she and her husband lived together.

It would be great if a neighbor or two would try and help her. I don't know what we, as strangers, can do but I would be willing to contribute to a GoFundMe if one were set up.

kathy






That's the problem with living in an HOA community.. An your so called neighbors turn on you like a snake.

[Pairadocs]

Wow......Santa...I know what you and that cold heart are getting for Xmas!
There is no doubt she needs assistance... not sure some strange knocking on a 70something's door to offer to buy the house to then rent back is the answer....seems like someone taking advantage of a bad situation.
if there were enough people really interested in helping they should organize a team to assess the whole situation. First and most importantly, talking to her.... what does she want, what opinions does she have, does she even want to stay here. Just blindly looking most likely is sell the house, take the proceeds and get a place on historic side with no bond.
With all this said....yes covid us probably the biggest obstacle here, but maybe just a friendly knock to start.
And yes, I would do it if I could, but because of covid I can't comfortably get down to my place and we'll ride out this pending Nor -easter while my home in warm Fl calls my name.
Fingers crossed.

Exactly ! NOT, "Oh here, let me help you out, I don't know you but I'll just buy your house and you can pay me rent..... yada, yada..... yep, it's Florida, everyone's got an angle. Hope some can form a real support group for her, maybe she is relatively "fine" mentally, but just depressed and overwhelmed, maybe with some REAL friends, she could come right out of this !

[Pairadocs]

Since members of her church are helping her pull weeds, as the original story stated, it is curious the church membership isn’t more involved in helping find a reasonable solution.

That is VERY suspicious, but, of course it could be true. You'd think someone would recognize she needs help, if only with a state of "indecision" ? I do know of a case of a distant relative who "seemed" mentally functional, however, in his mind he had NO money.... I know that seems odd, but this is true. Lived in Colorado and was cold and hungry because he "thought" he had no money, yet, his behavior was not otherwise odd or out of line. Taught me that people can get bazaar thoughts, and yet, can be considered competent and to others appear perfectly normal, and in most ways ARE ! In this case, he was NOT legally incompetent, was found to have a DEEP SEATED FEAR of poverty, of running out of money, so it took awhile to figure our why he let small things go in his nice home; not have the a plumbing problem fixed in a bathroom he did not need or use himself, failed to have the AC fixed in his car as it was "outrageously expensive and don't need it that much in Colorado", etc. etc. You just never know what people can get into their minds. This relative actually had a "decent" income; the thinking got skewered but was otherwise in tact. No one at his church or in his card group, caught on ! ?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Taught me that people can get bazaar thoughts, and yet, can be considered competent and to others appear perfectly normal, and in most ways ARE ! In this case, he was NOT legally incompetent, was found to have a DEEP SEATED FEAR of poverty, of running out of money, so it took awhile to figure our why he let small things go in his nice home; not have the a plumbing problem fixed in a bathroom he did not need or use himself, failed to have the AC fixed in his car as it was "outrageously expensive and don't need it that much in Colorado", etc. etc. You just never know what people can get into their minds.

Most people don't have any education or knowledge of how mental illness or disorders present. I had to read about 30 books to figure out how some issues present. . . and not being professional, i certainly missed many very obvious signs with my mom's dementia. Most will use logic to excuse the behavior.

The scenario as I read it does not have enough information, but getting into this situation means that the woman needs some help, and does not understand her options, or can't deal with her options, such as downsizing, etc. Most likely she is overwhelmed being alone, has diminished mental capacities, and wasn't prepared for her outcome. . . Not the first person who i have met who didn't plan and just assumed life as they know it would continue indefinitely.

Unless you are equipped and experienced dealing with elderly and their issues, and can prevent yourself from begin accused of manipulation, the best suggestion is county social services.

[Gulfcoast]

Most people don't have any education or knowledge of how mental illness or disorders present. I had to read about 30 books to figure out how some issues present. . . and not being professional, i certainly missed many very obvious signs with my mom's dementia. Most will use logic to excuse the behavior.

The scenario as I read it does not have enough information, but getting into this situation means that the woman needs some help, and does not understand her options, or can't deal with her options, such as downsizing, etc. Most likely she is overwhelmed being alone, has diminished mental capacities, and wasn't prepared for her outcome. . . Not the first person who i have met who didn't plan and just assumed life as they know it would continue indefinitely.

Unless you are equipped and experienced dealing with elderly and their issues, and can prevent yourself from begin accused of manipulation, the best suggestion is county social services.

Good points. Wouldn't being brought into court for failure to maintain the property bring an elderly homeowner under the radar of not just the courts but of social services, too?

[Gulfcoast]

Exactly ! NOT, "Oh here, let me help you out, I don't know you but I'll just buy your house and you can pay me rent..... yada, yada..... yep, it's Florida, everyone's got an angle. Hope some can form a real support group for her, maybe she is relatively "fine" mentally, but just depressed and overwhelmed, maybe with some REAL friends, she could come right out of this !

The social isolation that people have been under for the past 9 months has contributed to mental declines in otherwise functioning people. It could very well be that a little friendship and laughter could be the best medicine. Simply feeling all alone can, in and of itself, be overwhelming. Hopefully with the clubs and activities reopening, people are getting out for some much needed support and companionship again.

[Bruce Hancock]

Sound like a reverse mortgage is what would really help her. She would be able to have funds in a line of credit where she could draw monthly income.
This is exactly why reverse mortgages help some.

You are exactly right. I can help her. I work for Mutual of Omaha and do reverses in the Villages. She would probably net about $300,000, which sits in a line of credit, growing every year. She can take lump sums, monthly payments, anything she wants. She ALWAYS owns the home. When she sells or passes, she pays back whatever she used to live better, fix up the home etc. No payments are ever required.

[Bruce Hancock]

I am in the same situation. Lost my husband's Social Security because of GPO (married 66 years) over $24,000 a year, but bills keep on. Reverse mortgage could help, but if she owes more than $100,000 on her house, I think she has to come up with whatever she owes over that amount to get the reverse mortgage (not sure of this ). I expect she lost all or most of her husband's pension when he died. I could sell my house, but may not, and get a smaller house, but I have animals and other considerations, so probably won't. We don't know the whole situation her (other bills, car loans, etc.). I do feel sorry for her, and she may not have all the mental abilities to conduct whatever needs to be done. If she has family, they should step in and advise her.

I can help her. I work for Mutual of Omaha and do reverses in the Villages. She has no mortgage apparently, but if she did we pay it off so she no longer has a mortgage payment, which is HUGH for some people. She would probably net about $300,000, which sits in a line of credit, growing every year. She can take lump sums, monthly payments, anything she wants. She ALWAYS owns the home. When she sells or passes, she pays back whatever she used to live better, fix up the home etc. No payments are ever required.

[Topspinmo]

She may or MAY NOT have a pension coming in. Military members opt for survivor benefits or NOT while they are active duty. If they opt for survivor benefits, they get less take-home pay. Some choose for the higher paycheck and forego the survivor benefits.


It’s only option upon retirement. O wait I retired 26 years ago, they might of changes the rules?

[brfree1411@aol.com]

The survivor benefit plans are extremely expensive. My husband's was $350 per month. We only took it for one minor child at the time of retirement, 1994