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Mortgage relief during COVID-19: Here’s what you need to know

2020-04-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – In these unprecedented times, when many families are facing physical, emotional and financial hardships, a common question is, “How do I keep up with my mortgage when I’m not working?”

A home is a family’s most important asset. But now it’s more than that: It’s where they are hunkering down and staying safe. That’s why there is a plan for customers to delay monthly payments if they need help.

There are a lot of mortgage terms and provisions on TV and in newspapers related to the impact of COVID-19, and in some cases, there is conflicting information. Here are some common questions and answers from Mark O’Donovan, CEO, Chase Home Lending, to help guide you.

What’s payment assistance or forbearance?

That means you won’t be expected to make a payment for a period of time. For example, you can start with three months and you won’t be charged a late fee, once you tell us you need help and sign up. We’ll contact you during the three-month period to make sure you’re doing OK, and we won’t report the missed payments that come due during the forbearance period to the credit agencies. Before the period ends, we’ll be in touch to discuss when you expect you’ll be able to start paying again and how to handle the missed payments. If you can’t make up the missed payments at the point that you resume making your regular payments, we can likely defer them to the end of the mortgage term.

How do I raise my hand?

At Chase, you can request help without waiting to speak to an agent. Simply start here: www.chase.com/mortgageassistance. You’ll be able to log into your account, fill out a short form and enroll in the payment assistance program. You’ll avoid waiting on hold — a process that is lengthier right now given the thousands of customers calling with questions. We will email or send you a letter to confirm that you’re in the program. Don’t worry if you don’t get it immediately. It may take a few days, but the payment delays start right away.

Can I just stop paying without telling the bank?

That’s not a good idea. By signing up, you’ll get full access to all the program benefits — including delayed payments, no late fees and no negative reporting to the credit bureaus for payments due during the forbearance period.

What if I can still pay?

Then you should. Keep making your mortgage payments on time if you can. And know that the program is for customers who are suffering financial hardship resulting from COVID-19, so help is still available if your circumstances change as a result of COVID-19. There are also programs to help customers who suffer financial hardships for other reasons, including natural disasters.

What happens after the payment assistance period ends?

The national payment assistance program was created to provide immediate help to customers navigating this very uncertain time. If you’re still not able to afford your mortgage at the end of the initial three months, you can request delaying payments for additional months at the end of the forbearance period. Many customers who can resume making their full payment after the assistance period can defer missed payments to the end of the mortgage. We’ll check in with you near the end of the assistance period to help you understand your options.

While there is so much uncertainty right now, we want to be here for you to help. Stay safe and healthy.


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How one woman’s surprise heart failure diagnosis changed her life

2020-04-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – “I was scared. As a single mom with a 13-year-old son, I had no idea what was in store or how it would change my life,” said Kim Lewis, now 53.

To Lewis, working hard and taking care of her family was second nature. Yet nothing could prepare her for the challenges she began facing in her early 30s. She never considered that her increasing exhaustion was a sign that she had a serious health condition, and she certainly never imagined that it meant she had a problem with her heart.

Lewis vividly recalls the experience—after weeks of difficulty breathing with a debilitating, persistent cough, she knew something was not right. Her primary care physician initially diagnosed her with pneumonia, and then bronchitis, but the treatment prescribed didn’t help. It wasn’t until Lewis was referred to a lung specialist who rushed her off to the ER that she learned of her shocking diagnosis: she was suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), a chronic condition in which the heart is too weak to pump blood around the body efficiently. The condition can also change the structure of the heart so it may not work as well.

Over the next several years, Lewis was repeatedly readmitted to the hospital—at one point she was there for more than 6 weeks. This physical and emotional toll of repeated hospitalizations also impacted her young son, who always stayed by her side.

Eventually, Lewis was prescribed ENTRESTO® (sacubitril/valsartan) tablets, a first-choice therapy for HFrEF that can be started in or out of the hospital. While treatment impacts everyone differently, Lewis’s ongoing cycle of hospitalizations has stopped. Since starting ENTRESTO almost two years ago, she hasn’t been back to the hospital for the condition. This treatment helps to improve the heart’s ability to pump blood to the body and is the only medicine proven better at helping people stay alive and out of the hospital longer compared to a commonly used heart failure medicine.

Reducing patients’ chances of needing to go to the hospital is a key goal of heart failure treatment, as hospitalization is a sign that the condition is progressing—as well as an enormous burden on patients and healthcare systems. Hospitalizations for heart failure occur about two times every minute annually in the United States, which amounts to about 900,000 hospitalizations each year. About half of the people with heart failure have HFrEF.

It’s important to know that symptoms of the condition can mistakenly be attributed to getting older. These symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue and swelling in ankles and legs.

Lewis was determined to not let her condition keep her down for long. In partnership with her healthcare provider, she is following a plan of eating a low-salt diet, getting regular physical activity and taking ENTRESTO as part of her medication regimen.

Today, Lewis makes the most of her days by volunteering at a local community group, teaching water aerobics at her local health club and cherishing moments with her son and other loved ones. She strives to live by her personal motto: you only live once.

As one of the more than 6 million people living with heart failure in the U.S., Lewis encourages everyone, especially women, to pay attention to any symptoms they are experiencing and advocate for themselves. She also urges those living with the condition to partner with their healthcare provider to develop an overall treatment plan that is right for them. To learn more about ENTRESTO for heart failure patients, go to ENTRESTO.com.

About ENTRESTO

ENTRESTO (sacubitril/valsartan) is a prescription medicine used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization in adults with long-lasting (chronic) heart failure (HFrEF). It is also used to treat heart failure in children 1 to less than 18 years old.1 ENTRESTO is usually used with other heart failure therapies, in place of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or other angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) therapy.1 Heart failure occurs when the heart is weak and cannot pump enough blood to your lungs and the rest of your body. It is not known if ENTRESTO is safe and effective in children less than 1 year old.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ENTRESTO can harm or cause death to an unborn baby. Patients should talk to their doctor about other ways to treat heart failure if they plan to become pregnant. If a patient gets pregnant while taking ENTRESTO, she should tell her doctor right away.

Patients are not to take ENTRESTO if they are allergic to sacubitril or valsartan or any of the ingredients in ENTRESTO; have had an allergic reaction including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat or trouble breathing while taking a type of medicine called an ACE inhibitor or ARB; or take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients are not to take ENTRESTO for at least 36 hours before or after they take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients should talk with their doctor or pharmacist before taking ENTRESTO if they are not sure if they take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients are not to take ENTRESTO if they have diabetes and take a medicine that contains aliskiren.

Before they take ENTRESTO, patients should tell their doctor about all of their medical conditions, including if they have kidney or liver problems; or a history of hereditary angioedema; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Patients should either take ENTRESTO or breastfeed. They should not do both.

Patients should tell their doctor about all the medicines they take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. They should especially tell their doctor if they take potassium supplements or a salt substitute; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); lithium; or other medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems such as an ACE inhibitor, ARB, or aliskiren.

ENTRESTO may cause serious side effects including serious allergic reactions causing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat (angioedema) that may cause trouble breathing and death. Patients are to get emergency medical help right away if they have symptoms of angioedema or trouble breathing. Patients are not to take ENTRESTO again if they have had angioedema while taking ENTRESTO. People who are black or who have had angioedema may have a higher risk of having angioedema if they take ENTRESTO. ENTRESTO may cause low blood pressure (hypotension). Patients are to call their doctor if they become dizzy or lightheaded, or they develop extreme fatigue. ENTRESTO may cause kidney problems or an increased amount of potassium in the blood.

The most common side effects in adults were low blood pressure, high potassium, cough, dizziness, and kidney problems.

The side effects in pediatric patients were consistent with those observed in adults.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING available at http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/product/pi/pdf/entresto.pdf

Patients are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Novartis is committed to providing patients with affordable access and resources through Entresto Central. For more information, please call 1-888-ENTRESTO or visit www.ENTRESTO.com.


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25 years of migraine: How one sufferer won the battle

2020-04-28T13:01:00

(BPT) –

Migraine has been an unwelcome part of Jennifer (Jennie) Latson’s life for more than 25 years. On average, she has 10-12 migraine attacks per month. They can cause her horrible pain, severe nausea and vomiting, and often keep her bedridden for several days at a time. Her attacks started when she was 12 years old.

Despite her challenges with migraine, Jennie was an overachieving teenager who was optimistic of a future filled with unlimited opportunities.

“As a teen, I believed there was nothing I couldn’t accomplish in my life,” says Jennie. “I didn’t know what was causing my pain. My parents thought I was unusually susceptible to the flu. They hoped it was a condition I would eventually outgrow. I shared the same hope.”

A physical and emotional toll

Jennie’s hope was short-lived. The condition she assumed she would outgrow followed her to college. It was during her freshman year at Yale that she finally got an official diagnosis of her condition: Jennie was suffering from migraine. The news was devastating emotionally.

“When I received the diagnosis of migraine, I knew it was a condition I couldn’t outgrow,” says Jennie. “I realized then that the effects of migraine would limit my career choices and take away many of the opportunities I was hoping to have in my life.”

Resilient fight to gain relief

As she has done throughout her battle with migraine, Jennie powered through the pain and ultimately began a career as a journalist. In her brave efforts to limit migraine’s disruption to her life and career, she has learned many valuable coping skills.

“I’ve learned how to push through pain when I have to and make adjustments,” says Jennie. “When I was working as a newspaper reporter, I got my work done well ahead of deadlines, so I wasn’t derailed by a migraine at the last minute. I also learned to be kinder to myself and ask for help.”

Her fight has also included a tireless quest to find a treatment that will relieve her agonizing migraine pain. She tried more than a dozen existing medications for preventive and acute treatment of migraine and participated in several clinical trials for new treatments.

“Life changing” clinical trial

Jennie’s battle with migraine took a positive turn in August 2018. A regular follower of the National Institutes of Health’s listing of clinical trials, she learned about a new trial evaluating rimegepant, the investigational, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist for the acute treatment of migraine, developed by Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. Treatment with a CGRP receptor antagonist is believed to relieve migraine by blocking neurogenic inflammation, decreasing artery dilation, and inhibiting pain transmission.

Having been disappointed by her earlier clinical trial experiences, Jennie enrolled in the rimegepant study with low expectations. Soon, however, her understandable skepticism would turn into renewed hope for an improved quality of life.

“My experience with rimegepant was different,” says Jennie. “For the first time, a drug seemed to provide the relief that would improve my everyday life.”

Watershed FDA approval in migraine treatment

In February 2020, rimegepant was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the brand name of NURTEC™ ODT for the acute treatment of migraine in adults. Delivered in a single quick-dissolving tablet, NURTEC ODT disperses almost instantly in a person’s mouth without the need for water, offering people with migraine a convenient, discreet way to take their medication anytime and anywhere they need it. Available by prescription, NURTEC ODT may provide long-sought relief to millions of migraine sufferers like Jennie.

“While I know everyone doesn’t get the same result, rimegepant has enabled me to regain control of my life,” says Jennie, now 39, and the editor of Rice Business magazine, Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business’s alumni publication and a freelance writer for Psychology Today. “I no longer have to worry about burning through sick days or worrying about losing my job. I can go on vacations without the fear of ending up sick in bed from a migraine.”

“I hope my story inspires other people with migraine to never give up hope in finding the treatment that improves their lives,” adds Jennie.

What is NURTECTM ODT (rimegepant)?

NURTEC ODT orally disintegrating tablets is a prescription medicine for the acute treatment of migraine for attacks with or without aura in adults. NURTEC ODT is not used as a preventive treatment of migraine. It is not known if NURTEC ODT is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take Nurtec ODT if you are allergic to Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) or any of its ingredients.

Before you take Nurtec ODT, tell your healthcare provider (HCP) about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have liver problems,
  • have kidney problems,
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant,
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Tell your HCP about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Nurtec ODT may cause serious side effects including allergic reactions, including trouble breathing and rash. This can happen days after you take Nurtec ODT. Call your HCP or get emergency help right away if you have swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat or trouble breathing. This occurred in less than 1% of patients treated with Nurtec ODT.

The most common side effect of Nurtec ODT was nausea (2% of patients). This is not the only possible side effect of Nurtec ODT. Tell your HCP if you have any side effects. NURTEC is a trademark of Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company Ltd.

You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088 or report side effects to Biohaven at 1-833-4Nurtec.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information and Patient Information located at www.nurtec.com.

US-RIMODT-2000282 4/20


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How communities are connecting during the COVID-19 crisis

2020-04-28T12:01:00

(BPT) – During the uncertainty of the COVID-19 crisis, people are searching for ways to connect with experts, co-workers, friends, neighbors and their community. They are accomplishing this by using technology including virtual meetings, webinars and conference call services.

Everyone is making sacrifices during this time and adjusting their regular routines and habits. TownSq, an all-in-one communication app used in the community management industry, has analyzed the platform’s trends during the crisis.

Residents take guidelines seriously

The app’s analysis found that access-controlled communities’ guest invitations dropped more than 50% in the first week alone. Residents are forgoing seeing friends and family and canceling events to ensure they are doing their part to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.

Another interesting statistic is the drastic increase in package deliveries to communities. As COVID-19 concerns began growing in late February and early March, deliveries to communities started to increase to levels generally seen around the holiday season. Homeowners are social distancing while maintaining necessary supplies and avoiding crowded grocery stores and markets.

Neighbors help neighbors

The World Health Organization has reported that certain groups have an elevated risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19, including people over 65 years of age and those with underlying medical conditions.

As a result, solidarity is growing organically in communities. Younger residents are offering to help with things like picking up groceries or other essentials for residents that are in the high-risk group. That shows an altruistic desire for people to naturally want to help those that need it most during these times.

Technology assists in effective communication

As more strict guidelines get put into place, and more people are operating from home, individuals and companies are looking for new tools to help improve communication during the crisis. In communities and HOAs, this essential need is equally present; effective communication is the key to making sure every resident is informed properly and up to date on important community news. The app has seen an increased trend of board members and managers publishing 92% more critical announcements and documents during this time.

“Announcement growth is directly tied to managers and boards making relevant information available to all residents in real-time. The need for urgent news has increased, so we are seeing the results of the platform accommodating that need,” said Luis Lafer-Sousa of TownSq.

Virtual tools facilitate connections

From the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the app has tracked a dramatic increase in platform engagement. Residents have taken social distancing seriously with a 45% decrease in visitor requests and an uptick in package deliveries, neighbors helping neighbors, and vital communications from boards of directors to residents.

“We see this exponential growth as a strong sign of effective communication among our customers. It shows that people are looking for new ways to connect and help each other during this time,” said Lafer-Sousa. “Communication between residents is surging with an outpouring of support for those most at-risk in communities. For homeowners, they understand the importance of community connection and recognize the value of virtual tools to facilitate those connections.”

It is crucial to stay connected during times of crisis. That is why the app is offering features like real-time updates, a resident forum, targeted communications and more free for 90 days. To learn more, visit https://learn.townsq.io/90-day-free-trial.


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How to make the most of online learning

2020-04-28T12:01:00

(BPT) – The flexibility to learn and earn a degree online allows students nationwide — from full-time employees to single parents and more — to achieve goals while managing family and life. Millions of students study online today, and those numbers are only increasing.

While online education provides students with a range of opportunities, it also can present challenges of learning in a new environment. Arizona State University staff and students who teach and study online offer their tips to help ensure your success.

Set yourself up for success

Before starting a degree program online, plan ahead. Give yourself space and time to study, as well as technology tools to do your best.

Give yourself space

“A quiet workplace without any interruption from roommates or family is necessary for success in an online course,” advises the university’s director of student services, Joseph Chapman.

If your space isn’t completely quiet, noise-canceling headphones can help you focus. For shared spaces, let roommates or family know when you’re in study mode.

Check your tech

Lauren Permoda, program coordinator for ASU Online, recommends using a desktop or laptop for all your studies, as a tablet or phone may not be the best tools for most tasks.

Familiarize yourself with your school’s learning platform and keep information about tech support handy. Ensure that you have multiple browsers (such as Chrome or Firefox) available, as one might work better for some programs than others.

Organize your time

Time management is key to learning online, as you must take the initiative and be accountable for your own work, without instructors or parents looking over your shoulder.

Master of Healthcare Innovation alumni Alicia Gillum said her first task at the beginning of each semester is to review every class syllabus and put due dates for papers, assignments and exams in her calendar — plus reminders a few days ahead of each due date.

“My advice is to start your assignments ahead of time,” says Gillum. “It’ll be so much less stressful than waiting until the last minute to do it.”

Miranda Gaona, who’s graduating with her Master’s in Digital Audience Strategy this month, says she treats every online class like an in-person class, scheduling it in her calendar as an important appointment. Gaona also sets reminders and alarms for study time — building in breaks for snacks and resting.

Communicate

Stay connected to your instructors, classmates and school community. Take advantage of opportunities to collaborate, share insights and ask questions. Goana says she joins social media groups and participates in class discussions as much as possible.

Add your instructors’ virtual office hours in your calendar, so you know when they’ll be available. Email instructors or use class discussion boards to ask questions or offer comments. Instructors like seeing student engagement and participating will improve your overall experience.

Master of Art in Sociology student Drew McDowell also recommends communicating regularly with your “offline” support network — your friends, family and/or coworkers who may need to be patient as you devote more time to completing your coursework.

Find the right program for you

If you haven’t begun your studies, or you’re looking to transfer, find a program that meets your needs. Research universities that offer the degree or certification program you’re looking for online, and that are specifically designed and have dedicated resources to work with online learners.

Find an accredited degree program associated with a reputable university that offers the same curriculum and instructors as ground schools. U.S. News and World Report provides helpful rankings of universities and degree programs.

Look for a program offering a support system. For example, ASU’s 360 Life Services program is one of the first university programs to provide a comprehensive support system for online students. It offers clinical and personal care, as well as legal and financial assistance — plus success coaches who work with students to help them meet their academic goals.

Be persistent

When things get challenging, remember the reasons why you’re pursuing your education. Post verbal or visual reminders near your workspace to keep your goals top of mind.

To learn about ASU Online’s more than 200 degree programs, visit ASUOnline.asu.edu.


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5 tips for celebrating Mother’s Day from afar

2020-04-27T23:01:00

(BPT) – This Mother’s Day, you may not be able to be with your mom in person due to social distancing. The time apart may be difficult for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t honor your beloved mom in other thoughtful ways that don’t require person-to-person contact.

The point is to remember her on her special day — which is coming up May 10 — to make her feel loved and let her know how much she means to you.

“At its core, gift-giving is the practice of turning feelings like love, warmth, appreciation and pride into physical keepsakes,” writes Mara Leighton on BusinessInsider.com. “It’s one of the too few opportunities to convey to loved ones just how much we really love them.”

Here are five ways you can show Mom how much you care without the need to leave your home.

An exclusive virtual experience

Sign up for your mom to learn flower arranging from the pros by having farm-fresh flowers and a vase delivered to her doorstep, along with an invitation to create her own arrangement through a live-streamed social workshop. The collaboration between 1-800-Flowers.com and floral-workshop platform Alice’s Table provides Mom two wonderful gifts: A memorable hands-on experience and an arrangement she can be proud to display for days afterward. Find Alice’s Table events at alicestable.com/events.

Mood-brightening flowers

Alternatively, you may wish to send Mom’s favorite blooms all ready to display and enjoy. Use the language of flowers to remind her in the best possible way that warmer days are coming and the earth is about to spring forth with more sun, more greenery and a wealth of colorful new blooms. You can quickly and easily order her favorite Mother’s Day flowers now — and ensure no-contact delivery — with 1-800-FLOWERS. Spend a moment composing a warm and meaningful note to include with your specially selected bouquet to show Mom just how much you care.

An e-card with your personalized message

Take a moment to express your feelings by emailing a free, specially designed virtual greeting card and customizing it with your own expressions of caring.

Long-lasting greenery

You may prefer to gift Mom with something even longer-lasting — a lush, healthy plant she can tend, grow and enjoy year after year. Plants add oxygen to any environment, and studies indicate having greenery around may even reduce stress.

A donation honoring mom

This Mother’s Day, we recognize that moms matter more than ever. It’s important to share with your mom your reasons to be thankful: Is she watching over her grandkids, working overtime to keep her family fed or helping on the front lines of the health crisis? Or does she simply give you a hug and tell you everything will be OK? This Mother’s Day, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. will donate $1 (up to $50,000) to the nonprofit No Kid Hungry for everyone who shares a Mother’s Day note of thanks and a photo. No Kid Hungry is ensuring kids nationwide get the meals they need during school closures — and beyond. Share your #ThankfulforMom story today.

It’s true that kissing and hugging your mom in person may be impossible this Mother’s Day. But there are plenty of other safe and meaningful ways to honor her and the role she’s played in your life. Plan ahead for a virtual Mother’s Day celebration May 10.


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Buying or selling a home during a pandemic? Here’s what you need to know

2020-04-27T12:01:00

(BPT) – While the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed real estate transactions across the country, some still need to buy or sell their homes. It’s critical to understand the pandemic’s impacts on real estate, from simply touring a home to the ability to close transactions.

“Realtors® across the country have implemented a range of innovative and secure solutions to comply with social distancing directives while still enabling people to buy and sell homes,” said NAR President Vince Malta, broker at Malta & Co., Inc., in San Francisco, Calif. “In these difficult times, Realtors® are also more than just service providers. They are engaged community members, committed to building and enhancing the neighborhoods they serve, from checking in on neighbors and friends to offering guidance to their clients.”

As home buyers and sellers adjust to these extraordinary circumstances, the National Association of Realtors® offers advice on how to navigate this new temporary real estate reality.

What buyers need to know

Home tours will look a little different

Where in-person showings are still offered, potential buyers can expect quicker tours and may be asked to take extra precautions such as removing shoes, using hand sanitizer and avoiding touching anything in the home.

Many sellers have offered virtual tours of their homes through pre-recorded videos or live video streams. In fact, according to a recent NAR survey on the pandemic’s impact on real estate, three in five Realtors® said they are guiding buyers through virtual home tours. Buyers that decide to go on a virtual tour should ask their Realtor® questions about things that are more difficult to experience and understand through video, such as size (e.g., height of the ceilings or dimensions of rooms) or materials, including the flooring or countertops.

Interest rates are low

Interest rates are at historic lows; however, that could change given the fluidity and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. As more people file for unemployment, mortgage lenders may tighten lending standards, subsequently driving rates up. Or delayed demand could push rates further down. Potential buyers can prepare for home ownership by understanding their budget, building a good credit history, and getting prequalified for a mortgage. Some lenders even allow borrowers to lock in interest rates for limited periods of time — with now being a great time because of the low interest rates.

Don’t expect a discount

Nationally, home prices are holding steady, with the majority of home prices the same or higher from one year ago, according to NAR. At the same time, new home listings are down as sellers delay listing their homes. Serious buyers should submit competitive offers, and their Realtors® will advise them on exactly what that looks like for their respective markets.

Expect delays

The entire industry — from lenders to Realtors® to home inspectors to title companies — is adapting to the sudden and unforeseen transition of operating in a nearly contact-free environment. Those terminating a lease should leave some wiggle room, even an extra month or two, between moving out of a rental and into a new home in case of an unexpected delay. Hiring moving crews may prove challenging, so buyers should give them as much notice ahead of their move as possible.

What sellers need to know

Sellers face potential challenges, too. Keep an eye out for any expected delays either in the transaction process, such as the ability to get paperwork signed or having appraisers or inspectors onsite due to social distancing rules.

Use tech tools to help market and show your home

At a time when in-person showings may be inadvisable, and even prohibited, there are many digital tools available to continue marketing and showing your home. A Realtor® can help coordinate three-dimensional interactive property scans, virtual tours (either pre-recorded or live), on-demand open houses and virtual staging to showcase your property. If sellers do receive an offer on their home, their Realtor® has the ability to present it to them virtually as well.

Take steps to protect yourself

Buyers have purchased properties “sight unseen” for a variety of reasons long before this pandemic. However, most buyers do not have experience purchasing a property without physically visiting it. Therefore, sellers may want to include language in the purchase agreement that ensures the buyer acknowledges that they are responsible for personal verification, walkthroughs and professional inspections to confirm that the property meets their needs.

Buyers are still searching

Just because fewer buyers are touring homes in person doesn’t mean they’ve stopped searching for homes. Many are stuck at home, so you can bet they’re browsing online more now than ever. Sellers should think twice before they drop their price as nearly three in four Realtors® say sellers have not lowered prices to attract buyers during the pandemic. As potential buyers increasingly browse homes online, having attractive and accurate photos and videos is even more important. Sellers may want to consider using this extra time at home to make updates around their home and take fresh pictures for those starting their search online.

More advice for buyers and sellers

As the situation continues to evolve, NAR encourages buyers and sellers to follow CDC guidelines to protect their health and safety. NAR also developed the infographic below with additional advice on how to get the most value out of working with a Realtor®. For more information and resources on buying or selling a home visit www.houselogic.com, and to find a local Realtor® visit www.realtor.com.


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New Treatment Is Welcomed Innovation for People Living with Migraine

2020-04-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sarah Sitarski has endured life with migraine for about 27 years. During these years, she was misdiagnosed and prescribed different medications that didn’t work. As a mother of an active 10-year-old daughter and a manager in a busy work environment, Sarah needed a treatment option that allowed her to manage her unpredictable migraine attacks by giving her the timely relief she needed.

If you’ve ever experienced a migraine, you’re not likely to forget it. While the exact causes are unknown, a migraine attack may last for days, and the impact may be felt physically, emotionally, personally and professionally for much longer. Symptoms such as headache pain, sensitivity to sound and light, and nausea can be incapacitating.1

During these uncertain times, the need for migraine treatment hasn’t changed. Migraine attacks can strike anytime, anywhere — so it’s important to have a treatment option with a side-effect profile that allows individuals to take medication when and where they need it.

UBRELVY™ (ubrogepant) is a new oral treatment option that has been FDA-approved for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. It is not indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine. It treats migraine attacks once they start. UBRELVY was proven to quickly treat migraine within 2 hours in many patients. It’s important to note that people taking medications that strongly inhibit the enzyme called CYP3A4 should not take UBRELVY. Some of the most well-known examples include select drugs that treat bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions observed were nausea at 4% and sleepiness at 3%. UBRELVY is a promising new medication that may address unmet needs of millions of people living with migraine.

“As someone living with migraine since childhood, I clearly remember the ups and downs and the endless research to find the best treatment to relieve my migraine pain,” said Sarah, who was recently prescribed the new medication. “Now that UBRELVY is available, I’m so happy I have an effective treatment option that works for me and others living with the debilitating effects of migraine attacks. It relieves my pain quickly, and I look forward to spending more uninterrupted time with my daughter.”

Migraine impacts three times more women than men and leads to more than $12 billion in lost worker productivity annually.2,3 As the third most common disease and second leading cause of disability worldwide, migraine is more common than you may think, affecting 31 million Americans.4-6 And during a time when many people are feeling an increased level of stress and anxiety, known triggers of migraine among other factors, individuals living with migraine may be experiencing more migraine symptoms than usual.

Healthcare providers and people living with migraine have a toolbox of medications to treat a migraine attack when it occurs, which includes over-the-counter (OTC) medications, triptans, barbiturates, opioids, and NSAIDs, among others. According to market research polling 300 respondents with migraine, individuals on average take 19 pills per month for migraine (combination of OTC medications and prescriptions).7

According to one study of people living with migraine, 67% report delaying or avoiding taking their prescription medication when a migraine attack occurs because of the debilitating adverse events they experience from the treatment.8 This is one key reason there continues to be a need for new medications for those living with migraine.

A New Way to Treat Migraine Attacks

Based on years of clinical trials proving safety, efficacy and tolerability, the FDA’s approval of UBRELVY has been highly anticipated by the migraine community, including patients like Sarah.

UBRELVY was proven in two clinical studies with over 2,000 participants. These studies evaluated several outcomes at two hours after taking one dose of the medication. These outcomes included pain freedom (zero pain), absence of their most bothersome migraine symptom (light/sound sensitivity or nausea) and pain relief. Over 60% of people got pain relief within two hours, and 2 out of 5 had absence of their most bothersome symptom within two hours. For some patients, the medication also provided lasting relief up to 24 hours. In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions observed were nausea at 4% and sleepiness at 3%.

UBRELVY has been approved in two dose strengths, 50 mg and 100 mg, and is specifically designed so healthcare providers can provide a personalized treatment approach for appropriate patients.

People living with migraine should speak to their healthcare provider to learn more about their symptoms and determine if UBRELVY may be right for them. You can learn more about the medication and resources, including the full Patient Information and options for telehealth support, at www.UBRELVY.com.

INDICATION

UBRELVY™ (ubrogepant) is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. UBRELVY is not indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Contraindication: Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg, ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin).

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions were nausea (4% vs 2% placebo) and somnolence (3% vs 1% placebo).

Drug Interactions:

  • Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Should be avoided as concomitant use will result in reduction of ubrogepant exposure.
  • Dose modifications are recommended when using the following:
    • Moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers
    • BCRP and/or P-gp only inhibitors

Please see full Prescribing Information.

[1] Pietrobon D, Moskowitz MA. Pathophysiology of migraine. Ann Rev Physiol. 2013; 75:365-91.

[2] Agosti R. Migraine burden of disease: from the patient’s experience to a socio-economic view. Headache. 2018;58(Suppl. 1):17–32.

[3] Hawkins K, Wang S, Rupnow MFT. Indirect Cost Burden of Migraine in the United States. J Occup Environ Med. 2007;49(4):368-374. doi:10.1097/jom.0b013e31803b9510

[4] Headache Classification Subcommittee of the International Headache Society. The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. Cephalalgia. 2018;38(1)1-211.

[5] Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. Seattle, WA: IHME, 2018.

[6] Buse D, et al. Chronic migraine prevalence, disability, and sociodemographic factors: results from the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study. Headache. 2012; 52(10):1456–1470

[7] Data on file. Allergan, Inc.

[8] Gallagher RM, Kunkel R. Headache 2003;43:36-43.

UBRELVY™ and its design are trademarks of Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited.

UBR132900 04/20


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How to Properly Alarm Your Home [Infographic]

2020-04-27T15:15:00

(BPT) – Ensuring properly functioning alarms are placed throughout the home is the first line of defense for fire prevention. But even if you have smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home, you and your family may not be sufficiently protected if you don’t have enough devices to properly outfit your entire house. Take action now to make sure your family and home are ready for anything!


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3 value-boosting improvements new homeowners make to enhance spaces

2020-04-27T12:01:00

(BPT) – Buying a home is an exciting time. Once you purchase a property, you want to make it your own. Whether it’s a 100-year-old beauty or a fresh new build, there are improvements you can make that not only personalize the space, but add instant value to your real estate investment.

Project 1: Update the garage door

Garage doors take up a lot of visual real estate on the exterior of a home, meaning they dramatically impact curb appeal. Because you never get a second chance to make a first impression, bland designs, old styles and damaged doors detract from a home’s appearance and overall value.

Updating a garage door has a midrange cost but an impressive ROI. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value report, the average national job cost of a garage door replacement is $3,695, with an impressive 94.5% cost recouped at resale.

When choosing a garage door, select one you like that matches the home’s design. For example, carriage-house garage doors have a rustic look that work well with American Craftsman style homes. Contemporary garage doors with clean lines work well with mid-century modern homes. Raised panel garage doors are popular and work with many types of homes.

Project 2: Add a bathroom

Wish there was a bathroom where no conventional plumbing exists in your home? Basements, attics, garages and unfinished spaces are tricky, but there is one way to add a bathroom without busting through concrete or sacrificing the structural integrity of a home: above-floor plumbing such as macerating toilets and drain pumps from Saniflo.

This was the case for David Pirain of NextHome PPM Realty, who wanted to add a half bath to a home he was flipping in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The primary challenge: Sewage access was above grade and 40 feet away from the basement, which is situated about six feet below the sewer line. Installing conventional plumbing was impossible without installing a large sewage ejector system that would require breaking concrete to dig a pit to hold the system, which he estimated would cost $9,000.
He decided above-floor plumbing options would be an effective alternative at a much lower cost. He spent $1,100 for the Sanibest Pro grinder system, whose one-horsepower pump can discharge up to 25 vertical feet and up to 150 horizontal feet to a soil stack or septic tank. Pirain now estimates that adding a basement bathroom increased the value of the home by $20,000. Learn more about adding a bathroom anywhere you want without the traditional cost at go.saniflo.com.

Project 3: Revitalize ceilings

Dingy, cracked ceilings are eyesores that date a property and can make it look older than it is. By updating your ceiling, you not only improve the appearance, but you also increase the home’s overall value. If there are chips and cracks, it’s important to repair these issues before applying any paint. Once repaired, vacuum cobwebs and remove dust to ensure that fresh coat of ceiling paint adheres properly.

Don’t like the style of ceiling you have? Many homeowners are opting to replace popcorn texture ceilings with flat or knock-down styles. While a ceiling is a personal preference, updating it to a more modern option may command a higher price at resale. If the ceiling has never been painted, you may be able to remove the popcorn texture yourself; otherwise, hiring a professional should get the job done quickly. Keep in mind, popcorn textures and other ceilings applied before 1979 may have asbestos, so you’ll want to get it tested before removal.

Enhance the value and enjoy the results

As you look at different properties, you imagine yourself in each house, enjoying the space and making memories. Even when you find “the one,” there are things you want to update. By making these improvements, you will personalize the space, instantly enhance the value and have a property you enjoy.

above-floor plumbing features such as a macerating toilet and drain pumps from Saniflo.