A Free Community Panel
Your home, your future - what's next?
Honest answers about aging in place, care options, downsizing, and what your home equity can do for you - from four local experts who do this every day.
Date
Wed, July 22, 2026
Time
10 AM - 12 PM
Location
La Mesa Police Dept. Community Room
8085 University Ave.
La Mesa, CA 91942
A Note from Mary
After 24 years in East County real estate, I've seen how much easier this season of life goes with the right information - and how hard it gets without it. Join us for honest, no-pressure answers from people who do this work every day.
What We'll Cover
Four big questions, four people who answer them every day.
Downsizing & selling
When it makes sense, what your home may be worth, and how to move on your timeline.
Care options
Understanding senior care choices and finding the right fit for a loved one.
Home equity
What reverse mortgages can - and can't - do for your finances.
Aging in place
Practical ways to make staying in your home safer and easier.
Meet the Panel
Four local experts, one honest conversation.
Mary de Waal
Moderator & Realtor® · De Waal Realty, SRES®
A San Diego native and second-generation Realtor with 24 years in East County. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Mary helps homeowners navigate later-life moves - and she's moderating this seminar.
Michael Ortman
Senior Care PLacement
A Senior Placement Advisor since 2012, Michael has helped more than 1,000 San Diego families find the right senior care home. A licensed RCFE administrator for over a decade, he knows the region's care facilities - and the people who run them - inside and out.
Ryan Kleis
Reverse Mortgage · Home Equity
Ryan is the founder of Reverse Mortgage Educators and has spent over 20 years in the field. On the panel, he'll explain what a reverse mortgage can - and can't - do, and how to tell whether tapping home equity makes sense for your plans.
Matt Gfell
Aging in Place · Lifeway Mobility
Matt is Regional General Manager at Lifeway Mobility, where his team helps people stay safe and independent at home. On the panel, he'll cover the practical side of aging in place - the stair lifts, ramps, and modifications that can make staying put a real option.
Reserve Your Spot
Seating is limited - and it's free.
- Wednesday, July 22, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- La Mesa Police Dept Community Room