Maximizing Impact: Shriners Children’s and Real Estate Donations

The Beginning of a Real Estate Donation

The donation began when a long-time supporter approached Shriners Children’s Northern California (Shriners Children's) with the donation of her property in Reno, NV. Initially purchased for personal use and convenient access to a frequently visited golf course, the donor no longer saw a need for the property and wanted to remove it from her portfolio.

The donor's decision to give her property was rooted in her support for Shriners Children’s and the practicality of an appraisal well worth over $1 million. As someone financially well-off, the tax benefits associated with the donation – determined by the property's appraised value – made donating an even more appealing choice.

Acknowledging the significant impact of this contribution, Shriners Children’s, in partnership with Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS), opted to tailor the donation process. Alan Anderson, Sr. Director of Philanthropy at Shriners Children’s Northern California, managed donor communication and expectations, and CARS supported Anderson by providing contracts and guiding him through the necessary steps to proceed with the property donation. Understanding the crucial nature of cultivating a relationship with a major donor, CARS's adjustment to the donation process allowed the Major Gifts Department at Shriners Children’s to continue nurturing and developing their longstanding relationship with their valued donor.

Streamlining the Donation Process and Meeting Donor Requests

Navigating the intricacies of the donation process involved a series of thoughtful decisions to ensure a smooth experience for the donor. Eager to conclude her involvement with the property, the donor signed a contract agreeing to directly transfer ownership to CARS – a departure from the double close process CARS utilizes with most donations. This strategic shift relieved the donor of any present or future responsibilities and liabilities while empowering CARS to make necessary decisions and improvements to the property. Once ownership was transferred, CARS took control of all utilities and issued a new title for the property,signifying the successful transfer and setting the stage for the subsequent phases.

Recognizing the potential financial impact on the broker who had initially sold her the property and with whom she had a longstanding relationship, the donor included a stipulation in the contractual agreement with CARS. She expressed the desire to include the original broker, who played a crucial role in preparing the property for sale in the resale process. To honor this, CARS enlisted the broker to handle the sale of the donated property, ensuring that she received a portion of the commission she would have earned had the donor opted not to proceed with the donation. Taking additional steps to ensure the donor was content with the terms of the donation further solidified the relationship between the donor and Shriners.

Selling a Unique Property

The sale of the property posed a considerable challenge due to its distinctive features. With an unconventional floorplan and its location on a golf course, the property targeted a niche market,limiting its appeal and ultimately prolonging its listing period. Adjustments to the listing price were necessary, reflecting the challenges posed by the property. Despite these hurdles, the right buyer emerged. The property sold and closed within a 30-day period, ultimately resulting in Shriners Children’s receiving over $1 million to advance their mission.

The Impact of Real Estate Donations

Real estate donations contribute significantly to the transformative impact of Shriners Children’s, supporting their mission of providing specialized, comprehensive care to all children, regardless of the families’ ability to pay or insurance status. “CARS is the perfect solution for accepting real estate donations,” said Jennifer Hughes, who is Shriners Children's executive director of philanthropy services. “It ensures a seamless and worry-free process for our donors and team as their expert sta handle all the details.”

Funds raised through real estate donations enable Shriners Children’s to advance their three-part mission effectively. This includes delivering crucial care to their young patients, conducting essential research to enhance medical knowledge and develop innovative treatments, and fostering educational opportunities for physicians and healthcare professionals. By contributing to these vital aspects, the proceeds raised from real estate donations support Shriners Children’s commitment to providing accessible and exceptional pediatric specialty care.