Warren Shouldice

Cell: 403-461-8103 |

It's hard to believe another year is coming to a close. Personally, 2018 was a wonderful year; my wife and I welcomed our second child and I continued to build my business. I'd like to thank you for your business and for choosing me for all your real estate needs! Warmest wishes to you and your family this holiday season. I look forward to staying in touch in the new year.


Market Update:


The slow pace of sales continued last month with annual sales down nearly 20 per cent from the long term average. Additionally, current inventory as of November 30 sits at 6501 units, which is 32 per cent higher than the long term average for the month. The higher inventories and weaker sales are resulting in a buyer’s market with price declines. The citywide benchmark price was $422,600 in November, nearly one per cent lower than last month and over three per cent below last year’s levels.


Quick Stats:

 

Nov. 2017

Nov. 2018

Y/Y% change

Detached

     

Total sales

874

679

-22.31%

Inventory

2,765

3,491

26.26%

Months of supply*

3.16

5.14

62.52%

Average DOM

48

60

24.36%

Benchmark price**

$505,500

$486,000

-3.44%

       

Attached

     

Total sales

312

252

-19.23%

Inventory

1,423

1,693

18.97%

Months of supply*

4.56

6.72

47.30%

Average DOM

54

69

27.43%

Benchmark price**

$333,100

321,800

-3.39%

       

Apartment

     

Total sales

224

240

7.14%

Inventory

1,495

1,317

-11.91%

Months of supply*

6.67

5.49

-17.78%

Average DOM

66

65

-0.56%

Benchmark price**

$258,400

$252,800

-2.17%

*Months of supply: The ratio between inventory and sales which represents the current pace of sales and how long it would take to clear existing inventory.

**Benchmark price: The monthly price of the typical home based on its attributes, providing the best measure of price trends.


Affordable Staging Ideas

Remember the last time you walked through a furniture showroom? You probably noticed that the sofa, chairs, tables and other furnishings were arranged - or staged - to make them look more appealing. You might have seen an attractive lamp on a sofa end table, or an appetizing bowl of fruit on a dining room buffet.


When preparing your home for sale, you should do much the same thing. Stage each room to make it look its best. Studies prove this will help sell your home faster and for a better price.

In fact, there are professional stagers who provide consulting and installation for home staging. As your real estate agent, I can also provide you with practical ideas to get your home prepared for sale.

Here are some simple, affordable staging tips:

  • Make each room look as spacious as possible. This may mean putting some items, and even some furniture, into storage.
  • Remove unnecessary items from countertops, tables and shelves.
  • Keep decorative objects on shelves, tables and even sofas, in odd number groupings. According to Barb Schwartz, the originator of staging, this combination works best. So, put three pillows on a sofa, not two or four.
  • Make an older-looking piece of furniture look quaint and stylish by adding a throw cover.
  • Add life and good looks to just about any living space by adding flowers or a flowering plant.
  • Have the table set with your best china. It makes the buyer want to move in and sit down for dinner!
  • Consider replacing the sink, faucets and toilet to make an older bathroom look much better. It’s relatively quick and inexpensive.

Professional stagers look at your home through the eyes of the buyer. Do the same and you’ll be able to see what changes need to be made.



Cyber Safety for Computer Users of All Ages

No matter your age, if you use a computer - and especially the internet - you need to be savvy about security. Yet many users have no idea how vulnerable they might be to malicious thieves who can “hack” and “phish” into personal computers.


To prevent theft of information that can rob you and your family of your financial assets - and your dignity - be mindful of the following:

  • Educate young video gamers on the importance of protecting personal information, and instruct them to inform you of unusual requests for private facts, photos or activities.
  • While on social networks, be wary of unknown links to unusual blogs, tweets and other services that invite interaction.
  • When using unsecured Wi-Fi networks, increase your computer’s security levels, and ensure your computer has automated anti-virus upgrades.
  • During financial transactions, check that you use only trusted websites that start with “https” (the “s” stands for “secure”).


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Data is supplied by Pillar 9™ MLS® System. Pillar 9™ is the owner of the copyright in its MLS®System. Data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by Pillar 9™.
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.