Mike & Bernadine Nielsen : Blog : Latest Blog Posts

What do you get when you put a home and a barn together? Find out here

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 18:13:04 GMT

Embracing Wide Open Spaces With ‘Barndos’ In the home design world, the term “open concept” has taken on a new meaning. If you like spacious layouts, the idea of industrial-meets-rustic style, and are looking for an economical home, you may want to consider a “barndo,” aka “barndominium.” These homes have become popular recently, particularly in rural areas, since being featured on a popular TV home show. Essentially, barndos are metal structures that have the same high ceilings as a barn with an open-concept design, often with exposed beams. They are typically built on large lots, which is why they are more popular in rural areas. So, what are some reasons for their increasing popularity? • They are cheaper than a traditional home, and more energy efficient, helping to cut energy costs. The metal frame is a good base for insulation, which helps regulate temperatures. • Their metal construction is good for longevity and durability. Metal is resistant to mold, mildew, rot, termites, and fire, and better able to withstand extreme weather, compared to traditional wood-framed homes. • They are faster to build than traditional homes, taking approximately 3 to 6 months to construct, depending on the level of customization. • Due to their open-concept design, the rooms tend to have better airflow, which helps reduce heating and cooling costs. If you are dreaming of a barndo for your next home, keep in mind that while increasing in popularity, they still aren’t part of the mass housing market. This makes financing more difficult (but not impossible) and may make it more difficult to resell the property. Also, check if there are any related zoning restrictions in the area you are exploring.

When is it worth compromising on your “must-have” list when buying a new home

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 23:16:22 GMT

When to Compromise on your “Must-Have” List When you’re shopping for a new home, you’ll likely have a list of "must-haves" that are essential to your ideal living space. However, there are circumstances in which it may be worth compromising on your list of non-negotiables. Location While having four bedrooms or a large backyard may be high on your priority list, a desirable location with easy access to schools, work, and amenities could outweigh those specific features. Keep an open mind and consider adjusting your must-haves if it means securing a home in an ideal neighbourhood. Budget Sometimes, your dream home may exceed your price range. In such cases, it can be beneficial to explore properties that may lack a few desired features but offer the potential for customization or renovation in the future. This way, you can gradually transform the house into your dream home while staying within your financial means. Feeling What if you walk into a home and it just feels right, even though it’s lacking a feature on your must-have list? It might be worth going with that feeling. Keep in mind that what a property is lacking today may be remedied over time with improvements and renovations.

Looking for your next home? Here are five ways to make it more affordable

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 16:13:42 GMT

5 Ways to Make your Next Home more Affordable Are you thinking about finding your next home? It can be tricky balancing what you want with what you can practically afford. Here are some tips that can make buying your dream home more doable: 1. Save for a larger down payment. A larger down payment can lower your monthly mortgage costs and possibly help you get a better interest rate. 2. Look at neighbourhoods that are less “in demand.” Some areas have the reputation of being desirable or exclusive and – as a result – expensive. But, there may be neighbourhoods that are not as indemand and yet ideal (and more affordable) for you. Explore that possibility. 3. Consider a fixer-upper. A home that needs some work may be more affordable, and you can save money by doing some of the renovations yourself. 4. Think about buying a smaller home. A smaller property can be more affordable and easier to maintain, especially if you’re downsizing. 5. Research mortgage options. Shop around for the best mortgage rates and consider different types of mortgages. A better mortgage rate and terms may make an out-of-reach home affordable for you. Any of these tips will help increase the probability that you’ll be able to buy your dream home at a price that works for you.

Staging the outside of your home when listing can improve curb appeal. Here are some simple techniques for doing just that

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:50:46 GMT

Low-Cost Staging Ideas for the Outside of your Home When it comes to selling your home, preparing the exterior can be just as important as preparing the interior. The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, and it can greatly impact their first impression of your property. Luckily, there are several low-cost outdoor improvements that will make your home more appealing to buyers. First, consider adding some potted plants or flowers to your front porch or entryway. This can help add some colour and life to your home's exterior, and create a welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers. Even in winter, small potted evergreens can have an impact. Next, consider cleaning up your landscaping. This can include trimming overgrown bushes and trees, mowing the lawn, and removing any dead plants or debris. By doing so, you can make your home look well-maintained and attractive to potential buyers. You may also want to consider adding some outdoor lighting to your property. This can include adding some solar-powered lights along your driveway or walkway, or even adding some outdoor string lights to your patio or deck. Outdoor lighting can create an inviting atmosphere, and make your home look more attractive to potential buyers. Finally, consider giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. Your front door is a focal point of your home's exterior, and painting it will make a big difference. If you’re changing the colour, be sure to pick one that complements the façade. These outdoor improvements don’t cost much, but will increase your home's curb appeal, which is proven to help sell your property faster and for a better price. Need more advice on how to create the “wow” factor in your home when you sell? Call today!

Does it make sense to buy a home that needs work? Perhaps. But, check out these tips first

Tue, 02 May 2023 19:14:19 GMT

Advantages of Buying a House that Needs Work There’s no doubt about it. Buying a home that is “move in ready” is a real convenience. All you need to do is get your belongings in place, and you’re ready to enjoy living in your new home. You don’t even need to paint. That’s why move-in-ready homes tend to attract more buyers. However, there are advantages to buying a property that needs work. And, if you’re currently shopping for a new home, a listing that requires some repairs, upgrades, or renovations might be worth considering. Why? Properties that need work tend to be priced lower than comparable movein-ready listings. Depending on market demand, the price savings can range from modest (just a few thousand dollars) to substantial. Also, homes that need work tend to attract fewer buyers and offers, so there’s less competition. Another advantage is the opportunity to get into a desirable area you otherwise might not have afforded. It might be worth the extra work you’d need to put into the home to live in your dream neighbourhood. But, while there are advantages, there are also important caveats. The first caveat is you must know the scope of work that is required before making any decision to purchase. How will you get the work done? How much will you need to budget for the improvements? Are you prepared for the realities of living in a property during renovations? The second caveat is you must anticipate any issues that can’t be seen during a typical viewing. The last thing you want is to pay for a major repair you weren’t expecting. That’s why getting a professional home inspection as a condition of your offer is often a good idea. There’s a lot to think about when you’re buying a “needs work” property. But, I can help you make an informed decision. Call today.

Is there an area you’ve targeted that’s become unaffordable? It might be worth taking a second look. Here’s why

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 21:56:52 GMT

Revisiting Previously Unaffordable Neighbourhoods Imagine you’d been keeping your eye on a desirable neighbourhood over the years. You had hoped that one day you could buy a home there. But, then you saw prices creeping up — to a point where they became unaffordable. “Oh well,” you’d thought. “I guess we won’t be moving there!” That scenario is familiar to many homeowners. In fact, you too may have been keeping your eye on a neighbourhood you’d love to get into but have decided it’s become too expensive. If that’s so, it might be worth taking a second look. The real estate market changes. One year an area might be a red-hot seller’s market with prices soaring. The next year, things may have cooled, and prices stabilized. That means the desirable neighbourhood you’ve been coveting might, today, be more affordable than you think. Prices might have become more reasonable. There might be more inventory (more homes for sale), giving you, the buyer, a competitive edge. And, don’t forget that your own property may have gone up in value, perhaps considerably. That means the money you make from selling your home may make buying in the desirable neighbourhood doable. It’s something to think about! So, if you’re dreaming of getting into a particular neighbourhood, don’t make assumptions about affordability. At least, not yet. Find out the current state of the market. You might be delighted to learn that the “un” has been dropped from the previously unaffordable for that area! Want to learn more? Call today.

Do you follow the national housing market news? If so, here’s an even more important market to follow

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 22:33:40 GMT

Know the Local Market when You Sell Are you thinking of selling your home this year? If so, you might be paying extra attention to housing market news covered by the regional and national media. While that news can be helpful information, it can sometimes say little about what’s happening in your particular neighbourhood. In fact, it’s possible for there to be a balanced market nationally or regionally, while at the same time your street may be experiencing a hot seller’s market! That’s why it’s important to understand what’s happening in your local “micro” housing market when you’re selling your home. What do you need to know about your local real estate scene? Here are a few questions to ask yourself: • Is our neighbourhood a seller’s, buyer’s, or balanced market right now? • If we list our home this month, will there be any competing listings in our area? If so, how many? • How long is the average listing in our area taking to sell? A week? A month? • How much are properties like ours in the neighbourhood selling for? • How desirable is our neighbourhood? How many buyers are actively looking to move here? Are there currently buyers eager to purchase a home like ours? • What are the demographics of buyers looking to buy in our neighbourhood? • How important is it to fix up and stage my home if I decide to sell? Getting these local insights will be far more helpful than the national news when you put your property on the market. So, find out what’s happening right here, in your neighbourhood. How do you do that? Call me today

Should you hire professional movers or save money doing the move on your own? Here’s what to consider

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:41:18 GMT

Moving Yourself vs. Hiring Professionals When you buy a new home and moving day is looming, it can be tempting to consider doing the move yourself. After all, by not hiring a moving company, you’re saving money. It is true, the DIY approach can lower your moving costs, which is money you can put towards needed fixes and upgrades to your new property. But, you’re also adding a lot of work! You’ll need to think about boxes, packing, truck rental, gas, lifting and lugging, friends who offer to help but bail last minute, and more. So, if you’re going to move yourself, plan carefully. Ensure you have all the boxes and packing supplies (tape, bubble wrap, etc.) you need. Most importantly, put together a reliable crew who can stick with you the entire day. In addition to family and friends, it might make sense to hire a worker for the day. If that all seems like too much work and hassle, then using a moving company is a time-saving option. Yes, you’ll pay more. But you’ll get professional movers, with a truck, who can do much of the lifting and lugging for you. That will take a lot of the stress out of moving day. And, keep in mind, you don’t need to get the moving company to do it all. You can cut costs by having them handle the heavier items, such as appliances and furniture, while you DIY-move other things, such as easier-tohandle boxes. Regardless of which option you choose, make your plans well in advance. When it comes to moving day, you’ll be glad you did! Want more tips on making buying and selling easier? Call today

Want to find out if you can afford the home of your dreams? Here’s how

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 19:55:13 GMT

Can You Afford the Home of your Dreams? Daydreaming about owning something you can’t afford can be fun. Whether it’s a diamond-encrusted watch from Tiffany & Co., or the latest Lamborghini, even the thought of trying one on or going for a test drive can be exciting. The problem with daydreaming, however, is that it’s all-too-easy to dismiss it as just that – a dream. But, what if you daydream about owning a beautiful home in a desirable neighbourhood? Before you dismiss that as just fanciful thinking, it’s worth finding out if that dream could actually be achievable. You might discover that you do qualify to get into the home of your dreams. It’s relatively easy to figure it out. First, you need to learn what homes are currently selling for in the neighbourhood you’re targeting. If you’ve been through that exercise already, keep in mind that the market might have changed substantially in the past few months. The next thing you need to determine is approximately how much you can expect to get for your current property. That’s a fairly easy calculation and is based on what “comparable” homes in your neighbourhood have sold for recently. Finally, you need to find out how much of a mortgage you may need and what your payments will likely be. Once you have those numbers, you’ll know if you can afford the home of your dreams in the neighbourhood you’d love to get into. Then you can stop daydreaming and make it happen!

Want to ensure your yard or garage sale attracts a crowd of eager shoppers? Check out these tips

Tue, 24 May 2022 23:51:52 GMT

Your Spring Yard Sale Checklist Thinking of having a yard or garage sale? It’s a great way to dispose of unwanted items and other clutter, especially if you’re thinking of moving. In addition, yard sales have a charm that selling items on the internet can’t match. That’s why they’re still so popular. If you’re planning a yard or garage sale, here are some helpful tips: • Two-thirds of garage sale shoppers will find you via signage. So, be sure to place plenty of signs around the neighbourhood that clearly point buyers to your location. • Place in-demand items closer to the street so shoppers can see them from a distance. (For example, computers, electronic games, bicycles, exercise equipment, furniture.) • Buyers don’t want to pay a “fair” price at a garage sale. They want a bargain basement deal! So, price items accordingly. • Open early in the day. You’ll find that the biggest shoppers (the deal hunters) will stop by before 9 a.m. Some will be there before you open! • Be sure to have some cash on hand to make change. Of course, you should also be as safe as possible and comply with all applicable public health guidelines. If some items don’t sell, consider donating them to a community thrift shop or dropping them off at a recycling centre. Good luck with your sale!

What you need to know about competing listings in your neighbourhood when you sell

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 22:23:53 GMT

Should You Worry about Competing Listings? Imagine you've been waiting for the right moment to sell your home and you're finally ready to pull the trigger and list it. But, just as you're about to put up the sign, you notice that a few other FOR SALE signs have unexpectedly popped up in the neighbourhood. Oh no! Now there are competing listings. Does that mean you should put your plan to sell your property on hold? Not necessarily. Just because comparable homes are for sale in the area doesn't mean it's not a good time to make your move. In fact, even if there is a sharp increase in local listings, active buyers might still outnumber properties available. In that scenario, you'd likely get several interested buyers. And, even in the case of a buyer's market, now might still be the ideal time to sell. Don't forget, your home might have desirable features that some buyers are eagerly looking for, giving your home the advantage over others on the market. In addition, a large part of a successful sale is in how a property is marketed and promoted. With effective marketing, your home is more likely to be noticed by the right type of buyers... buyers who are actively looking for a property like yours. So, waiting for the perfect moment to sell your home rarely makes sense. In most cases, the best time to list is now. That being said, it is helpful to find out exactly what to expect should you list your property in today's market. To find that out, call today.

Spring cleaning tips that will save you time

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 19:33:51 GMT

Get your Spring Cleaning Done in Half the Time Spring cleaning can seem like a great idea until you actually get started. Then it often turns out to be more work than expected! The good news is, there are proven techniques to make the job easier so you can get it done faster. • Before you begin the project, make sure you have everything you need: hammer, boxes, tape, garbage bags, etc. Think of the supplies you’ll need on hand and the tools that will make tasks easier. You don’t want to have to waste time on frequent trips to the store. • Consider renting a small moving trolley (AKA hand truck.) That will make it much easier to move heavy objects, such as furniture, as you’re cleaning. Most local home improvement centres rent these. • Plan how you’re going to dispose of waste and unwanted stuff. Find out where you can donate clothes, toys, furniture, and other items. Note the location of your local garbage disposal site and its hours of operation. • Divide tasks into “Heavy work” and “Light work” and then do the heavy work first, such as moving furniture, reorganizing rooms, etc. Only after completing the heavy work should you dive into the “light work”, such as packing boxes and sweeping. • Consider getting help. There are many services available that will assist with cleaning, painting, junk removal, repairs, and more. You can even hire a student to assist you for a weekend. Spring cleaning can be a big project, but these tips can help make it a lot easier. And, keep in mind that if you’re thinking of selling this year, getting the spring cleaning done will be a big plus

Selling this spring or summer? Four reasons to get started now

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 17:45:49 GMT

Selling Later in the Year? Start the Process Now Imagine you want to take the “trip of a lifetime” this fall. Would you leave it until the summer to start planning, booking dates, and generally getting ready? Probably not. A trip like that is a big deal. You’d want to start making arrangements now, so by the time you’re ready to go to the airport, everything will be set for you and your family to have a great time. The same is true when selling your home. If you intend on listing your property in the spring or summer, now is the time to start making plans. Starting the process early in the year gives you four significant advantages: 1. Ample time to prepare your home. Starting now gives you time to declutter your property, get needed repairs done, and otherwise make your home ready to be seen by buyers. 2. Less stress. Unless you enjoy scrambling to get things done within a tight timeline, you want to give yourself as much time as possible to prepare for your home sale without the stress of a tight timeline. Starting early gives you that. 3. Listing date flexibility. Starting now means you’ll likely get your property prepared for the sale early in the year. Sure, your plan might be to list in the summer. But, if the market changes or some other opportunity presents itself, you’ll be able to list sooner. Your home will be ready. 4. More time to find your next home. If you’ll also be looking for a new home, starting the process now will give you more time to explore neighbourhoods, get financing arranged, and determine the ideal type of home for you. As you can see, it pays to start the process now, even if you won’t be selling until spring or summer.

When you want the “inside scoop” on a property listing, here’s how to get it

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 20:53:46 GMT

Getting the “Inside Scoop” on a Listing Throughout the history of journalism, reporters would pride themselves on getting the “inside scoop” on a story. In fact, that’s where that expression came from. So imagine you’re shopping for a new home and click on a listing online. Up comes all the property information. But, chances are, there is more to the story of that property than is presented in that listing. For example, you might want to know more about: • The empty field behind the home. • The addition that was added to the house. (Was it professionally done?) • What the neighbourhood is really like. • The age of the roof shingles. (Will they need to be replaced soon?) • Noise levels on weekends. • Upcoming new development that might change the character of the area. Most property information listed on MLS and elsewhere is incomplete. There’s almost always more to the story of a listing than you can find online. And, even after viewing a listed property, you may still have lingering questions or concerns. So, you’ll want to get the “inside scoop” and find out more. But how? To get the inside scoop on a listing, call me. I can get the additional information you need on a property so that you can make a more informed decision.

Here are examples of documents and other records to pull together when selling your home

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 21:25:08 GMT

Pulling Together the Records you Need when Selling Imagine you’re viewing a home for sale. You venture to the basement, check out the furnace room, and notice the water heater. Is it owned or rented? As a potential buyer, you’d want to know. Now imagine a property you’re viewing has a brand-new gas fireplace. Nice! Is it under warranty? Is that warranty transferrable to you if you buy the home? Again, you’d want to know. So, when you’re selling, it’s important to pull together all the necessary records you will need in order to answer these types of buyer questions. After all, if a particular warranty transfers to the new owner, that’s a selling point. Take the time to find receipts, warranty certificates, and other documents related to: • Renovations (such as a bathroom makeover) • Major repairs or replacements (such as a new air conditioner) • Service prepayments (such as a lawncare service paid annually) • Purchases of major appliances and other items Keep in mind that you may have purchased extended warranties or maintenance agreements at the time of purchase. Those may transfer to the new owner. Also note that some guarantees or service agreements transfer automatically while others require the new owner to initiate that transfer. These documents could potentially add a few more benefits to buying your home. So, it’s worth the time it takes to dig them out!

Worried you’ll find the home you want, but there will be competition? Here’s what to do!

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 04:10:00 GMT

Buying the Home Everybody Wants When you’re shopping for a home, you may become interested in a property for sale that someone else is also considering. In fact, there may be several other buyers entertaining the idea of making an offer. In such a competitive situation, what should you do if you really love that home? Obviously, you’ll need to move quickly and make some fast decisions. Start by making certain the property fits within your price range. The last thing you want is to have an offer accepted and find out it is beyond your budget. That’s why it’s a good idea to arrange for financing before you go home shopping. Next, you want to make an offer that is so enticing to the sellers that they’ll put your offer at the top of the pile, if not close to it. So, what makes an offer enticing? Obviously, price is a big factor. You want to go in at a price that’s attractive to the sellers, without overpaying. Imagine finding out later that the nearest offer to yours was $15,000 less. Ouch! Chances are your offer price will need to be at or slightly above asking. Find out what similar homes in the area recently sold for — what real estate agents call “comparables” — and use those as a guide. It’s also important that your offer contains few, if any, issues that may be concerning to the sellers. The ideal offer will feature: • No conditions. • A closing date that’s convenient for the seller. • A deposit amount that shows you’re a serious buyer. • Acceptance of any of the buyer’s “exclusions”. (For example, they want to take the fridge and stove with them.) • Evidence you can get financing. (Many lenders offer a “Mortgage Preapproval Certificate”.) Although a “no conditions” offer is the most attractive, including a condition on passing a professional home inspection is usually not a problem, so long as the inspection is done quickly. Avoid adding other conditions, such as “subject to financing approval” or “subject to the sale of buyer’s existing property”. If you want to increase the likelihood that you’ll find — and, more importantly, get — your next dream home, call today.

Here are 5 ways to make the selling process less stressful and much more fun

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 01:09:00 GMT

5 Ways to Add Fun to the Selling Process When you think about selling your property, do you dwell on the possible work and stress involved? You're not alone. Many homeowners share the same concerns. But it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, there are plenty of ways to add some fun, anticipation, and even a sense of adventure to the selling process. Here are just a few ideas: 1. Plan fun things to do when your home is being shown. That can include walks, sports activities, or trying something you and your family have never done before. 2. Declutter for your own benefit. Instead of thinking about decluttering as a chore required for the sale, focus instead on how much more comfortable your home will be after decluttering. Studies consistently show that less clutter reduces stress and increases a sense of wellbeing. 3. Get everyone in your home anticipating the move in a positive way. Put pictures of your next home, including neighbourhood shots, on the fridge door. Sit together on the computer and explore your new neighbourhood's features and amenities. 4. Celebrate milestones in the selling process. For example, when you're finished preparing your property for sale, go out to celebrate. Make a checklist of milestones and how you'll celebrate each one. 5. Get the help you need. A big part of the stress of selling is the anticipated work involved. Remember, you don't have to do it all yourself. Much of what needs to be done can be handled by contractors and other professionals. There are many other ways to make selling your home a positive and turbulentfree experience. Give me a call if you'd like more ideas and suggestions.

Simple walkway fixes that will make your listed home look more appealing

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 23:08:41 GMT

Front Walkway Improvements that Boost Curb Appeal Your front walkway is one of the first sections of real estate a buyer will set foot on when coming to see your home. So, it makes sense to make that pathway to your front door as appealing as possible. The obvious way is to make it as clean and clear as you can. Ensure there are no obstacles in the way, such as overhanging branches, kid's toys, or potted plants. What you want is a clear, unobstructed and pleasant walk to your main entranceway. If your walkway needs deeper cleaning, consider a powerwash. There are special detergents available that are designed specifically for stone, asphalt or cement walkways and other outdoor surfaces. A deep cleaning isn't a major project. In most cases, the job can be done within an hour. Yet, the result can be stunning. If you're selling in the spring or summer, another way to make your walkway look better is to add flowers or other plants along the sides. Don't overdo it. You only need a few flowers or a couple of shrubs to make a big difference. The great thing about adding a few flowers or shrubs is the impact they can have on your entire frontage making it more attractive, and adding to your home's overall curb appeal. Making your walkway look better may seem minor, but keep in mind that when buyers make their way to your front door, they're forming their first and often most important impression of your property. The walkway plays a small but important role in making it a good one. Want more ideas for making your home show better, so it sells quicker and for a higher price? Call me.

Selling in the spring? Here’s what you can do this month to get ahead of the game

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 16:32:11 GMT

Start the Home Selling Process this Month If you’re thinking about selling in the spring, don’t wait until the new year to start planning. In fact, you’ll save yourself a lot of work and get ahead of the game if you start planning now. What’s that old saying? The early bird gets the worm! In this case, by starting the process this month, you’ll be in excellent shape when you’re ready to list in the spring. Here are just a few examples of what you can do in December to get the process started: • Walk your property and note any maintenance issues that need attention. • Decide which items to stow or sell to declutter your home. • Determine what improvements you’ll need to make in order for your home to look great to buyers (i.e. painting.) • Find out approximately how much your property will likely sell for in the spring market. • Clarify the kind of new home you’d like to move into, including ideal neighbourhoods. • Look into your financing options, so you’ll know the price range you’ll be shopping within. • Connect with any professionals you may need, such as contractors, a mover, and a real estate lawyer. • Take advantage of any December shopping deals for products you may need, such as home improvement project materials, packing supplies, etc. As you can see, the more prepared you are this month, the more stress-free and successful the home selling process will be for you in the spring. And one more tip: contact me to get the conversation started about selling your home in the new year. It’s coming fast!

A little outside cleaning goes a long way to helping sell your home faster. Check out these tips

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 23:30:47 GMT

Cleaning Tips for Instantly Improving Curb Appeal As you may know, curb appeal refers to how your property looks from the street, where potential buyers first see it. Your home’s curb appeal can have a big impact on the sale of your property. In fact, it's not uncommon for a buyer to drive by a listing, rather than stop, because they don't like what they see. So, how can you improve your home's curb appeal quickly? One way is to do some outside cleaning. Start with the main entryway. Wash down the front door and sweep (or power wash) the front steps. It only takes a few minutes but you'd be surprised by the impact it can have. Sweep or power wash your walkway too and you’ll improve the overall look of your home — sometimes dramatically. Clean your front windows to brighten the look of your home’s facade. It doesn't have to be an arduous chore. In fact, there are washing products available that attach to your garden hose. You don't even need a ladder! Ask your local home improvement retailer for recommendations. If you have hedges and scrubs, give them a trim. To keep your trimming level, use a wide board, or even a piece of cardboard, then cut to the desired height. Pull off any dead leaves or branches. Of course, also mow the lawn! Finally, inspect your property from the street. Can you see anything else you can do to quickly improve the look? Do you notice anything that is unsightly or distracting, such as garbage bins that could be relocated? One final tip: When a viewing is scheduled, remove your vehicles from the driveway. Buyers like to see an empty driveway because it helps them imagine themselves living there. It also gives them a convenient place to park!

Want to get a head-start on seeing homes as soon as they come on the market? Here's how

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:14:09 GMT

How to Get Front-of-the-Line Access to Desirable Homes for Sale As you've probably noticed, credit card companies regularly offer bonuses to get you to apply for their cards. For example, one such card company offers opportunities to buy tickets to concerts and other events ahead of everyone else. It's their "front of the line" service. When you’re searching for a new home, wouldn't it be great if you could get to the front of the line on desirable properties – before other buyers get the chance? Well, in a way, you can. The first thing you need to do is create a profile for the specific type of home you're looking to buy. That profile will need to include the basics, such as type of home (e.g. detached), size and rooms (e.g. 2000-2,500 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths), and your target neighbourhoods. You'll also want to add any additional features you're looking for, such as a finished basement or in-ground pool. Next, you want to work with a real estate agent like me who understands the local market and can arrange for you to receive immediate alerts for newly listed homes that meet your criteria. It's not uncommon for homes to become available for sale before the listing information gets published on the MLS. In fact, in some circumstances, it could take a couple of days before such listings become available online. So, if you get an alert soon after a listing comes on the market, you get a head-start on seeing that home and making an offer. And, you don't need to apply for a special credit card to make that happen! Just give me a call. I can help you find the right home for you.

Great ideas for reducing the time, cost and stress of preparing your home before selling

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 03:22:00 GMT

Cutting Down the Time it Takes to Prepare your Home For Sale If you're thinking of listing your property, one thing that might be holding you back is concern about preparing your home for sale. You may be wondering how much work there will be. Is it going to take a couple of months? A couple of weeks? A few days? That, of course, depends on the state of your property. However, regardless of how close your home is to “show time” ready, there is plenty you can do to reduce how long that preparation takes. Consider these ideas: • Sell stuff online. The less cluttered your home seems to buyers, the better it will show. So, make a list of items you want to sell, and then list them on one of the many local online market websites. Price items fairly and, chances are, you'll get rid of everything in a day or two. • Have a repair day. Go through your home and make a list of everything that needs to be fixed. Then, schedule repair people to all come on the same day. Voila! In one day, all needed repairs (or, at least, most of them) are done. • Get staging advice. Instead of guessing at what changes you need to make around your home to make it look its best, get expert staging advice. You’ll find out exactly what the experts suggest you do, and you'll save a lot of time and money. (By the way, I can provide you with that advice too.) • Ask before making big improvements. Are you planning to convert a wood burning fireplace into a gas unit to help sell your home? Before doing any big improvements or renovations like that, talk to me. You don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on an unnecessary project. • Hire help. You don't have to do everything on your own. Get the help you need. For example, hire a painter, a cleaner, and/or a junk removal service. Those will significantly shorten the time it takes to prepare your home for sale and save you a lot of work. Also, the costs of those professionals may be off-set by the increase in the sale price of your home. Bottomline: Preparing your home doesn't need to be overwhelming and timeconsuming. Contact me for more ideas to help get your home ready for sale,quickly.

Will Rogers once advised, "Don't let yesterday take up too much of today."

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 00:28:00 GMT

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Your bathroom can have a surprising impact on a buyer's impression of your home. Here's how to stage this room effectively

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:06:34 GMT

Bathroom Staging Tips from Professional Home Stagers There's a reason why there are "kitchen and bath" stores, and even design magazines devoted to these rooms. A well-staged kitchen and bathroom can make the entire home look better. So, it's no surprise that professional home stagers pay particular attention to these spaces. What do these pros have to say about bathrooms? Professional stagers advise that you start by taking a picture of the room. Looking at that picture will give you a better sense of how others see your bathroom and reveal what needs to be changed. Then, de-personalize it. When you’re showing your home to buyers, you want the bathroom to resemble a guest bathroom. So, no shaving kits, toothbrushes, sticky notes to self on the mirror, etc. Stagers also recommend that anything worn be replaced. This will likely include the shower curtain and mats, which tend to wear and stain quickly. Hang fresh new towels on the rack. (If you’re buying new towels for this purpose, choose white.) Put an unused bar of soap or hand cleaner next to the sink. Make it look like a freshly stocked hotel bathroom. If required, paint the walls. Off-white colours, including beiges and light greys, work well. As you can see, it doesn't take much to stage your bathroom and make it look its best for buyers. Looking for more staging tips? Call today

Can you delay re-shingling your roof for another year or two? Find out here

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 23:30:20 GMT

Is it Time to Re-Shingle Your Roof? No matter what you think of snakes, you must agree that they have a unique way of dealing with worn-out skin. When the time comes, they simply shed it — like an old jacket — revealing a fresh new skin underneath. Your home's roof doesn't have that advantage! So, when the shingles wear out or become damaged, you need to have them replaced. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to determine whether your shingles need replacement right away, or whether you can hold off for another year. Assuming your home has the most common type of shingles — asphalt — here's what to look for: • Corners upturned on some shingles. • Missing shingles. • Shingles lifting during high winds and not settling back into place (flat) within a day or two. • Heavy accumulation of shingle debris (particles) in the gutters. • Shingle bits and pieces found on the ground around your home. • Spots on your roof that still look wet a day or two after a rainfall. (This could be a sign of water infiltration into the felt or even the roof deck.) If you have any of these signs, be sure to have a roofing contractor take a closer look. Before investing in a new roof, be sure to check with the retailer or contractor who supplied the original materials. Your shingles might still be under warranty. Bottomline: Don't delay. You don't want to wait until you hear drip drip drip before taking action!

Dealing With Stress When Selling Your Home

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 19:36:13 GMT

Dealing with Stress when Selling Your Home Let's face it. Planning events, even exciting ones like an overseas vacation, can be stressful. So, it's not surprising that some homeowners — even those thrilled about moving — can slip into "worry mode" when putting their property up for sale. Unfortunately, this anxiety can make the process of selling an unpleasant experience. Who wants that? So here are some things you can do to reduce selling stress and enjoy the adventure. • Understand the selling process. The more you know about the steps involved in selling your home, the less mysterious — and, therefore, less stressful — it will be. • Give yourself the time you need. Feeling rushed and stressed comes from trying to do too much in too little time. Even if you're selling quickly, it's important to block off sufficient time in your calendar for the things you need to do. • Take care of yourself. As television psychologist Dr. Phil often points out, you can't give what you don't have. When it comes to selling your home, that means you need to eat well and stay healthy, so you have the energy you need throughout the process. • Make your home attractive to buyers. That not only means tidying up and doing a little home staging, it also means setting the right listing price. Nothing eliminates the stress of selling more than having flocks of qualified buyers interested in your home. • Get the help you need. You don't have to do everything on your own. That's why working with me is so advantageous. I take care of the many details for my clients so that they can enjoy the journey. Sure, there are going to be a few stressful moments. However, the process of listing and selling your property, while looking for your next dream home, can be an exciting experience. Let me help you. Call today.

7 lighting ideas for illuminating your outdoor living space

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 01:35:00 GMT

The Latest Options in Outdoor Lighting Outdoor lighting has come a long way from the days of patio lanterns and strings of lightbulbs. These days, there's an exhaustive array of options available to illuminate your outdoor space, and make it more appealing and comfortable, particularly in the evenings. Here are just a few ideas: • Solar garden lights. These lights are on stakes that can be easily inserted throughout the garden. Powered by the sun, they generate enough energy to cast a soft, pleasant glow along walkways or in flower beds in the evenings. • Deck post lights. These are easy to install because they're designed to sit on top of a standard 4x4 wood deck post. Most are solar powered. • Street-style lamps. As the name implies, these look similar to oldfashioned street lamps. Installation is a little more complex, but still DIY-friendly. They're eye-catching and have a dramatic impact on the look of your outdoor space. • Portable lantern lights. These are outdoor lights that are portable and often made to look like a decorative fixture for a coffee table or side table. They can be placed anywhere. • LED walkway lights. These are small lights that fit neatly and almost invisibly under stairs and around walkways. Walkway lights not only look good but also improve safety. Most are battery powered. • Planter lights. This is one of the most interesting options. Each one is both a flower pot and a light in one! The pot itself is translucent which allows the light inside to shine through. Design experts say you should treat your outdoor space as you would any room in your home. Lighting it up for evening comfort and enjoyment is a good place to start.

If you have buyers coming to see your home, here are some ways to quickly improve your home's curb appeal in just about an hour

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 01:43:00 GMT

One Hour Ideas for Boosting Curb Appeal You've heard of the term "curb appeal". It refers to the initial impression buyers get when they first see your property from the street. If the impression is a good one, it sets the right tone for the rest of the home viewing. How do you boost curb appeal? Here are some proven ideas that you can get done in an hour or so: • Wash both the inside and outside of the front windows. You'll be amazed at the difference that can make. • Sweep the walkway leading up to the front entrance. Add a new welcome mat. Also, wash down the front door. • If possible, remove cars from the driveway. Let buyers imagine their own cars parked there! • Mow the lawn. Lightly trim the hedges. Weed flower beds. • Remove anything from inside window sills that may look unsightly from the outside. Try putting a couple of flowering plants there instead. • Place any trash bins out-of-sight. For example, put them in the garage or neatly at the side of the house. • If the entrance door hardware is old and worn, change it. New hardware can make a bigger difference than you might think. • Make sure the outdoor lights are working, especially if you're showing your home in the evening. • Add some flowering plants to flower beds, or buy a couple of portable potted plants and place them strategically. • Clean your mailbox. If it’s rusted, replace it. • If you have a power washer, give the walkway and driveway a quick blast. Just be sure it will be dry before the buyers arrive. These one-hour improvements may seem minor, but anything that helps buyers form a more positive first impression of your home is worth the effort.

Want to find out how to set the ideal list price for your home? This article walks you through the process

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 19:25:09 GMT

Setting Your List Price Requires Calculation and Savvy When you're having a garage sale, one of the toughest tasks is pricing your items. If you put a price tag on your old golf clubs that’s too high, no one will buy them. If you make the price too low, they might sell quickly, but you’ll spend the rest of the day wondering if you could have gotten more! It's similar to selling your home — except with your home, the stakes are much higher. You want to price your property to sell, but you don’t want to leave any money on the table. How do you accomplish that? Setting the right list price for your home requires a combination of skilled calculation and industry savvy. Let's start with the "calculation" part... When you work with me, I'll review recently sold properties that are similar to yours in type, size, features and location. Then, using that data, we’ll calculate a range that represents your property's "current market value." For example, consider a spacious 15-year-old bungalow in a nice neighbourhood. If similar homes in the area have sold for $475,000- $550,000 in the last six months, then it's obvious that your home should sell in that range too. A list price above or below that range would be in the danger zone. But skilled calculation is only half the task. Setting your list price also requires expertise in the local market, combined with good old-fashioned gut instinct. That instinct comes from being on the front lines of many property transactions. That's why working with a good real estate salesperson is so important, when you’re deciding on the list price for your home. Want to discuss selling your home? Call me.

Are you aware that your BBQ needs annual maintenance? Here's what you need to do

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 20:51:35 GMT

BBQ Maintenance that Will Save Your Life According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than 160 people are injured each year in BBQ mishaps. That doesn't sound like a lot considering the thousands of people who flip burgers on their backyard grills each year. But, you certainly don't want to be one of those injured! The best way to prevent fire and injury is maintenance. Remarkably, few people are even aware that BBQ maintenance is necessary. But, it is. Every spring, experts say you should clean out the venturi tubes. Those are the little metal pipes that carry propane or natural gas. Pipe cleaners work well, although hardware stores also carry specialized tools for this purpose. The goal is to clean out any builtup dirt and debris. Don't be surprised if you find spider webs inside a venturi tube! Your BBQ grills should also be cleaned with soap and water each year. Just scraping them before barbequing isn’t enough. Fat and oils from cooking can build up on grills and harden. If you're getting a lot of flare-ups, this may be the cause. Finally, make sure nuts and bolts are tightened regularly, and replace any rusty hardware. Regular use, heat and weather can loosen or weaken bolts, particularly on the frame. Several fires each year are caused by BBQs tipping over or collapsing.

Easy ways to take the stress out of listing and selling

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 19:28:08 GMT

5 Ways to Make the Selling Process Stress-Free For some homeowners, the process of listing, showing and selling their home can be stressful. Fortunately, there is plenty you can do to make it much less nerve-racking—and even exciting and enjoyable. Here are some ideas: 1. Make a plan. Decide when you’re going to show your property, search for a new home, view listings, etc. Block out these times in an agenda book or calendar. That way, you and your family can see what’s coming up. 2. Be flexible. Few things go exactly as planned! So, it’s important to build in flexibility. For example, you may plan to see homes for sale on Saturdays, but if an opportunity comes up on a weeknight, give yourself room in your schedule to jump on it. 3. Eat well. There are numerous studies that connect poor nutrition with increased stress. When people are selling and moving, there’s a tendency to rely on quick fixes, such as hot dogs and pizza! Try to plan more nutritious meals that will keep everyone healthy and energized. 4. Get stuff done early. Doing things last minute, such as finding a real estate lawyer or getting rid of clutter, can quickly lead to stress and frustration. Whenever possible, get tasks done early. That way, you won’t have to worry about them. 5. Hire the right professionals. By far, the surest way to a stress-free move is to get the right professionals working for you: everyone from contractors to mortgage brokers to movers. By the way, a big part of what I do for clients is help make every aspect of buying, selling and moving go smoothly. Contact me to learn how I can help you.

Buying furniture for your home? If you’re thinking of financing through the retailer, read this first

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 01:40:01 GMT

What You Need to Know about “Interest Free” Deals Next to your home and car, home furnishings represent the most expensive product purchases homeowners make. A mid-quality livingroom set, with sofa and two side chairs, can cost thousands of dollars. That’s why most furniture retailers offer “interest free” and “pay much later” deals to soften the blow. These are basically financing options. Say, for example, you want to purchase furniture for the rec room. The cost is $7,200. The furniture retailer may offer you a deal where you “don’t pay a cent” for six months. As long as you pay the balance within that time, no interest is charged. That sounds like a sweet deal. And it is. But, personal finance experts will advise you to tread carefully. If you pay off the balance within the “no interest” timeframe, you’ll benefit from the sweet deal, by having deferred the payment. However, if you fall behind on payments, you’ll be hit with a high interest charge. It’s often 20% or more. That can add hundreds of dollars to what you would have originally paid for the purchase. And, even if you paid down most of the balance within the no interest period, you can still get hit hard. Some “no interest” deals charge interest on the original financed amount — not just the remaining balance. The best advice, according to personal finance experts, is to read the fine print carefully and pay off the balance as promptly as you can.

Thinking of checking out an Open House? Don’t forget to ask these important questions

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 22:13:16 GMT

Open House Questions Some Buyers Forget to Ask An Open House is an event. And, like many events, it’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement and energy. In fact, when you visit an Open House, you might even end up rubbing elbows with other buyers who are there at the same time. It can feel like a party! In an environment like that, it’s not unusual to forget to ask important questions about the property. Here are some of the most common: • How old is the roof? • How old is the furnace, air conditioner and other HVAC equipment? • How does the price compare to similar properties in the neighbourhood? (You don’t want to make an offer that’s too high.) • What are the characteristics of the neighbourhood? (Amenities, safety, traffic, access to public transit, property turnover, etc.) • What doesn’t come with the home? (Ask specifically about kitchen appliances, gas-connected BBQs, chandeliers, window coverings.) • Are there any potential impediments to the sale? (Tenants, outstanding liens, etc.) • Are there any outstanding maintenance issues, or repairs that need to be done? (For example, cracked ceramics on the foyer floor.) • Are there any issues that impact the full use of the property? (Ask specifically about shared driveways or walkways, public “right of way” through the property, water drainage rights from neighbouring homes, etc.) Yes, an Open House can feel like a frenzy, and if it’s a home you love, you might feel pressured to make an offer. But, it’s important to take the time to ask the right questions and consider your decision carefully. You don’t want to find out, too late, that there were questions you should have asked. Want more tips on finding the home of your dreams? Call today.

The reasons you may want to sell your home aren’t always obvious. Do you relate to any of the following?

Sat, 10 Feb 2018 17:23:09 GMT

Subtle Signs it May Be Time to Sell Sometimes the reason for putting your home on the market is crystal clear. For example, you might have a job relocation and need to move. Or, you might have decided to downsize because the kids have left the nest. However, there are many other motivations to list your home that are not as obvious, and yet are still good reasons to make a move. Here are just a few examples... • You’re bored with your home and are looking for a change. • There’s something you’ve always wanted in a home that your current property doesn’t have, such as a wooded backyard. • You want to be closer to work, or to activities you enjoy, such as golf. • You want to be closer to family. • The neighbourhood is changing in a way that no longer fits the lifestyle you want. • There’s another neighbourhood you’ve always dreamed of living in. • Your tastes have changed and you want to live in a different type of home. None of these reasons makes it an absolute necessity to list your property and find a new home. Yet, they’re all worth considering, especially if moving will make you and your family happier, and provide you with a more desirable lifestyle. Want to talk about the possibilities? Call today.

How to use data about your neighbourhood to help sell your home

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 00:18:00 GMT

Using Neighbourhood Data to Help Sell Your Home Your neighbourhood has a lot of features that can help sell your home faster. Unfortunately, buyers don’t usually notice those features just by driving around. So, you need to make sure they get all the information they need about your neighbourhood. For example, say homes don’t go on the market often in your area. That’s an indication that the quality of life in the neighbourhood is so good that no one wants to leave! In real estate we measure the area’s “turnover rate”, and it’s handy data to have when listing your home. Another bit of data that buyers can’t simply see is the local crime rate. But, most police departments keep those statistics. If your neighbourhood has a low crime rate, that’s an obvious plus to sellers. Demographic data can also be helpful when selling your property. If your neighbourhood has a lot of families, for example, that’s going to be appealing to buyers with kids. Even local development plans can play a role in making your home more attractive to buyers. If a new ramp to a major highway is in the works nearby, getting to work is going to be easier. That’s a big benefit to commuters. Other types of data that can help sell your home include: • Planned local construction. • Proposals for neighbourhood improvements. (For example, a new playground.) • Rates at which local property values are increasing. Any information that shows the advantages of living in your area is going to be useful when selling. By the way, this is the kind of information I put together to provide to prospective buyers when selling your home. Contact me today.

Considering renting out part of your home? Read this first:

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 04:43:47 GMT

Should You Rent Out Part of Your Home? Have you ever considered renting out a room to a student or renovating your basement into a self-contained rental apartment? It’s a big decision. There are many pros and cons to consider. On the pro side, renting can provide you with additional income. An extra few hundred dollars a month can go a long way towards paying down your mortgage or splurging on an exotic summer vacation. Creating rentable living space in your home — for example, an “in-law suite” featuring a kitchenette and bathroom — may also increase your property’s market value. On the con side, you’ll have more costs and responsibilities as a landlord. For example, you might need to purchase extra insurance because basic home insurance policies typically do not cover rental units, even if you’re just renting out a room. You’ll also be responsible for dealing with repairs sometimes in the middle of the night. Also, if you’re not careful about the renter you choose, you might end up with a “problem tenant”. For example, you could have a tenant who is consistently late on rent payments or simply stops paying. That can be stressful. If you’re deciding whether or not to rent, be sure to check local laws and regulations. Many jurisdictions have very strict rules regarding renting out space in a residential property, and those rules change frequently. Make sure you get the latest information.

How to wow a buyer during a viewing. Great tips here

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 04:41:09 GMT

Checklist for WOW-ing a Buyer during a Viewing Imagine you were selling your car, and a prospective buyer was on the way over to see it. What would you do? You would probably make your vehicle look as clean and shiny as possible, inside and out. The same holds true if you’re selling your home and there’s a potential buyer on the way. You want the buyer to be wow’d by your property. Here’s a handy checklist to follow: • Clean every room. Make your entire house look as “guest ready” as possible. • As much as is feasible given the time, reduce clutter. Consider packing some items into boxes and storing them in the basement or garage. • Get pets out of the house. You can take them for a walk, have a neighbour watch them, or take them to a good kennel. • Turn on the lights, even during the day. You want each room to look bright. • If there are any maintenance issues, such as a dripping faucet, let your Realtor know. Often, it’s best for buyers to be told rather than discover such issues themselves. • Open the curtains, except in those rooms where the sun will be uncomfortably strong during the viewing. • Move your vehicles from the driveway so the buyer can park there. (That can help them imagine living there, which is what you want!) • Make sure your foyer is especially clean and uncluttered. It’s the first “room” the buyer visits. • Avoid cooking just before a viewing. Even if the meal is wonderful, the aroma may linger. (Some people don’t like the smell of certain dishes, such as fish.) • Freshen up the outdoor space. Mow the lawn. Sweep the walkway. This viewing checklist will help you prepare your home quickly, so when the buyer comes in your front door, there’s a much better chance he or she will be impressed.

Fire safety experts say you need to be careful with these common household items

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 20:50:39 GMT

Common Household Items that Can Cause a Fire You never want to smell smoke in your home and realize there’s a fire. That’s why it is important to be diligent about fire safety. Experts recommend that homeowners be especially careful with the following common household items: • Portable heaters. Never leave one in a room unattended. Make sure paper and other combustible materials are well away from these units. • Electronics chargers. We all want our computers, tablets and smartphones to charge quickly. The price we pay for that convenience is chargers that pull in a lot of power, making them very hot. Keep them away from combustible material, as well as other wiring. • Smoking materials. Be careful with cigarettes, pipes, cigars and other such items. Bedding and upholstery, which burn slowly and dangerously, are the source of 75% of smoking-related fires. • Candles. Never leave candles unattended for any reason. If you must leave the room, extinguish them. • Flammable liquids. These can include paints, thinners and some brands of cleaning products. Read labels carefully and follow the safety instructions. To paraphrase a famous expression: An ounce of prevention is worth not having to deal with a house fire.

The world’s most famous motivational speaker, Tony Robbins, says,

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 20:57:06 GMT

The world’s most famous motivational speaker, Tony Robbins, says, “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.”

Common Household Items that Can Cause a Fire

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 00:42:00 GMT

Thinking about purchasing a home automation product? Check this out first

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 22:23:56 GMT

Should You Buy the Latest Home Automation Gadgets? You’re at work when the thought hits you, “Did I lock the door when I left this morning?” You check your smartphone, see that you didn’t, and click the “LOCK” button. Now your house is secure. That’s home automation for you! But, is home automation a good idea? That depends on a number of factors. On the pro side, home automation can improve your quality of life. There are automation products that will adjust heating/cooling depending on whether or not you’re home, make your morning coffee when you get out of bed, and the list goes on and on. These conveniences save you time. Home automation can also give you peace-of-mind. It’s comforting to be able to remotely see the inside of your home and check that everything’s okay. Home automation can also make your property more appealing to buyers. Traditionally, buyers like homes with security systems, and will appreciate other automation gizmos, too. The only downside is the cost. Like most new technology, home automation products can be pricey and may become out-of-date within just a few years. Thinking about it? Experts advise you to do your research first. Check out product reviews online. Then, if you determine that a particular product is going to benefit you, go for it!

10 good reasons to list your home for sale this month

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

10 Reasons to List Your Home This Month Is selling your property the furthest thing from your mind? Well, here are some reasons for listing your property that you might not have considered. 1. Your property may be worth more than you think. (It’s difficult to determine market value on your own. I can calculate it for you. Give me a call.) 2. You might qualify for a better home than you anticipate. 3. Perhaps you are tired of your current property and want a change. 4. There may be homes on the market in a neighbourhood in which you’ve always wanted to live. 5. Your current property may no longer meet your needs. 6. Your neighbourhood may have changed in ways you don’t like. 7. You might be ready to downsize or upsize and you no longer want to put that off. 8. You may want to sell in the fall, so you can have a fresh start in a new home in the new year. 9. Depending on the type of home you’re considering, you could end up with lower mortgage payments or no mortgage at all. 10.You might want to move to a home that’s more conveniently located near work, family and hobbies. Of course, you may have your own reasons for listing this month. Why not discuss them with a real estate expert? Me. I can answer your questions and explain the options available to you.

203 1429 MERKLIN STREET, South Surrey White Rock, BC

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

I just sold this Condo at 203 1429 MERKLIN STREET, South Surrey White Rock, BC White Rock.

View this recently sold Condo or see all my home sales

The last thing you want is a BBQ mishap. Here are top safety tips you should know

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

BBQ Safety Tips You Should Know According to a recent study, the average homeowner pays more attention to kitchen stove safety than they do BBQ safety. But, the fact is, a BBQ mishap can be just as devastating. So, it pays to know the latest safety tips. • Keep BBQs at least 8 feet away from your house. • Check for venture tube blockages regularly. (Spiders are notorious for spinning webs in there.) • Clean the grill frequently to prevent flare ups. A grease fire on the grill can continue burning even after you’ve turned the BBQ off. • Don’t position your BBQ close to foliage, such as under a tree or next to shrubs. • Never BBQ in an enclosed area, such as a garage, even if the space is well ventilated. • Avoid leaving the grill unattended, especially when cooking greasy foods such as sausages, beef burgers or steaks. • Do not let children BBQ. Finally, make sure your BBQ is turned completely off after use. It’s a good idea to double-check this when making the rounds and locking up your home for the night. Experts say you should treat a BBQ as you would a camp fire — with care.

Three reasons to talk to me today, even if you’re not yet ready to sell

Sat, 09 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

3 Reasons to Talk to a Realtor Today You might naturally assume that it is most important to talk to a Realtor when you’re selling or buying a home. But there are many other circumstances in which it makes sense to give me a call. Here are a few examples. 1. When you’re at the “thinking about it” stage If you’re just thinking about selling your home, and haven’t made a firm decision yet, you might feel uncomfortable calling a Realtor. Don’t be. In fact, I welcome your call. We can discuss what your current property will likely sell for on today’s market, and determine the type of home you qualify to buy. That way, you’ll have some clarity and be able to make a more informed decision. 2. If you’re nervous about the selling process If you haven’t sold a home before, you might be concerned about what’s involved in the process. You might even worry that putting your home on the market is going to be a lot of work and create a lot of turbulence for you and your family. Fortunately, selling your home doesn’t need to be scary. In fact, a big part of my job as a Realtor is to make the process as smooth and trouble-free as possible. So if you have concerns about selling your home, you should give me a call. 3. If you have questions You likely have questions about the local real estate scene from time to time. You might have questions like: “How much did that home around the corner sell for?”; “Is now a good time to make a move, or should I wait until the market changes?”; and, “How much is my current home worth?” When you have questions like those, you don’t need to dig for answers on your own. You can give me a call. As an expert in the local market, I can give you the answers you need.

Are you aware of all the outstanding warranties for the home you’re purchasing? You should be. Here’s why

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

This Simple Question Can Save You a Lot of Money Imagine this scenario... You purchase a new home and move in. A few weeks later, you hear a strange rumbling sound. It’s the furnace. It’s only a year old, yet it’s sputtering like it’s twenty. You realize you’ll have to call in an HVAC contractor to get it fixed. You’re thinking, “Ouch! This is going to be expensive.” Well, maybe not. You see, since that furnace is relatively new, it might be covered by its original warranty — even for you, the new owner. But a warranty is useless if you don’t know it exists. Recent studies suggest that upwards of 50% of people pay to get items fixed that were actually covered by a warranty. So, when purchasing a new home, be sure to ask this simple question: “What warranties do you have for items, materials or workmanship in this house?” Warranties are common on new stoves, fridges, washers, dryers and other big ticket appliances. Some such warranties are transferrable, which means they are still in force when the items pass from one owner to another. Even less expensive items, such as electronic thermostats and automatic garage door openers, may be covered by a transferrable manufacturer’s warranty. If the home you’re purchasing is relatively new (say, less than 10 years old), the builder’s warranty may also still be in force. That can be handy if a structural problem arises. Even recent renovations, may have come with a labour and/or installation warranty of some kind. As you can see, warranties are everywhere! The more you’re aware of them, the more you’ll save when something needs repair or replacement.

Are you curious about what an interior designer does? It may surprise you. Learn more here

Sat, 05 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

What Do Interior Designers Do? If you want to transform a room into something that’s functional, beautiful and perfectly matched to your taste, then you might want to hire an interior designer. It’s an interior designer’s job to come up with imaginative ideas that will wow you. It’s a myth that interior designers just deal with paint colours, décor and furnishings. In fact, according to the Interior Designers Institute, these professionals have the training needed to handle all aspects of a renovation or remodeling project, including selecting and managing contractors. They can direct a project from beginning to end. If you want to renovate your basement into a stunning home theatre and gathering place, an interior designer can: • Draw out several concepts for you to choose from, • Purchase the best building materials, • Hire the contractors, and • Manage the project. He or she can even pick out classic movie pictures for the walls! There are many professional associations that have “Find an Interior Designer” links on their websites. In the U.S. check out the Professional Association for Interior Designers (www.asid.org). In Canada, it’s the Interior Designers of Canada www.idcanada.org

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Thu, 27 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

"Failure doesn't mean you're a failure, it just means you haven't succeeded yet," says Robert Schuller who popularized “Possibility Thinking”.

No homes for sale in the area you’d like to live in someday? Here’s what you should be doing

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

No Homes for Sale in the Area You Like? Here’s What to Do... Imagine there’s a neighbourhood you’d love to live in someday, but, every time you drive through, you rarely, if ever, see a For Sale sign. It’s as if homes get gobbled up by buyers the moment they get listed. It’s true, properties do tend to sell quickly in desirable, in-demand neighbourhoods. Does that mean you’re destined to either hope for a lucky break or miss out on ever living there? Fortunately, no. There are practical things you can do to increase your chances of getting into that neighbourhood. Your first step is to find out the kind of new home you can afford. You want to get your financial ducks in a row so when a listing does come up in the area, you’re able to respond quickly. Find out the average price range of homes in the neighbourhood. Then, if necessary, talk to your lender or mortgage broker. The second step is to get your current property ready for sale. You don’t necessary need to list it now, but you want to be in a position to do so quickly, if necessary. You may need to clean up and declutter, get repairs done, and spruce up your home in other ways. The third step is to talk to me. You see, listings in popular neighbourhoods often move fast. By the time you see them advertised on the internet, they may be gone. I can closely monitor listings in that area for you, so the moment one comes up that meets your criteria, you can be alerted. This greatly increases your chances of getting that home. So if there is a dream neighbourhood you’d love to get into, give me a call.

60 15588 32 AVENUE, South Surrey White Rock, BC

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

I just sold this Townhouse at 60 15588 32 AVENUE, South Surrey White Rock, BC Grandview Surrey.

View this recently sold Townhouse or see all my home sales