This is the first edition of RealClues in 30 years that lacks Byron’s name on the byline below. Yesterday was my first day back at work and it was also the first day since his death that had a sense of normality and flow.

All of us are impacted by loss, whether it is a friend or loved one, a divorce, illness, business failure—the list goes on and on. What I have appreciated most are my neighbors, my industry friends, and our RealClues readers who were praying daily for Byron’s recovery and sent their love and support in texts, phone messages, and cards.

My next-door neighbor Pat has been amazing in this respect. The morning after Byron was admitted to ICU, she offered to drive me to the hospital and just sit with me and read. It turned out he died only a short 90 minutes later after we got there, but I was incredibly thankful I didn’t have to face it alone. Her presence met more to me than words can say.

Since then, she’s been there to help me in any way she can. She and her husband take in my trash bins, Pat has called to check to see if she needs to just come over to give me a hug, asked if she can get any groceries for me, join them for dinner, or simply to sit with me and if I just need to have someone here with me. These are simple things you can do for others, especially if it’s family or close personal friends.

Professionally, if the person you’re helping owns their own home, they will need an evaluation of the value based upon the date of death. I suggest that you not only do your usual CMA but also include values from realtor.com and a Zestimate to support your CMA numbers.

The good news taxwise is that they get a “stepped-up” basis on the value of their home, which means the IRS now considers their “basis” in their home at the date of death, rather than when they acquired it. This is extremely important since it can greatly reduce their exposure to income taxes.

Also, encourage them to talk to their CPA or tax professional before making ANY financial decisions. Many people have regretted rushing things. This is especially important if they’re considering selling their home or liquidating stock. They need to know the tax consequences before they act.

If they enjoy massages, get them a gift certificate. If their yard isn’t being taking care of, send a crew over (with their permission) to mow and clean up the yard. If they don’t have a housekeeper, hire a housekeeping team to clean their house when they’re ready. There’s no limit to what you can do.

Wishing you and yours the best year ever in 2026!