Sales continued to ease in May with the largest declines occurring in the detached sector. This, along with an increase of new listings, has pushed up inventory levels considerably from a year ago. Detached sales and inventories have risen across all price ranges; however, the greatest amount of excess supply is in homes priced above $500,000.

In May, Calgary-wide sales totaled 1,726 units, with sales activity in the detached sector declining to levels not seen in over a decade. The market supply didn't adjust to this month's sales activities, resulting in elevated supply relative to demand. This, along with the recent changes to lending rules and rates has prevented any further price recovery in the market.

Quick Stats:

*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.

Quick Kitchen Makeovers

Kitchen renovations tend to be the biggest, most complicated home makeover projects, mainly because the kitchen is the most frequented and most multifunctional room in modern homes. But sometimes a kitchen makeover can be achieved with some simple cosmetic changes, rather than a complete redesign of the actual floor plan.

Beyond a basic colour scheme change, the next makeover level involves replacing cabinet hardware. Remove a set of hinges, knobs and/or pulls to identify the type of screw/bolt settings that will be needed. Then, choose from the many options available at home building centres or specialty knob stores. Similarly, consider a new faucet and sink, upgraded countertop or a fresh tile backsplash. Each will contribute to a dramatic change. You may want to consider replacing or refinishing the drawer and cupboard facings as well, although that would likely require professional help.

Improved lighting is another important way to change a kitchen’s look and functionality. However, general overhead lighting, strategic task lighting and ambient mood lighting could involve rewiring. Finally, replacing the flooring will result in a significant change to any kitchen. Choices range from recycled cork to indestructible granite. Remember to consider not only appearance but also practicality.

What Does a Property Surveyor do?

Property Surveyors, sometimes referred to as Land Surveyors, play a vital role in the real estate world. They are the professionals who determine or confirm the exact boundaries of a property.

Will you need to deal with a Property Surveyor when you sell your home? You might.

Sometimes the mortgage lender will ask for a land survey, especially if your property is older and hasn’t changed hands in many years. You might also be asked for one by the buyer if there is any confusion about the size and boundaries of your property - or if significant changes have been made to it in recent years.

This is nothing to be concerned about. A qualified Property Surveyor will do the appropriate inspections and measurements on your property and issue you the survey. (It looks a little like a blueprint.)

Property Surveyors are highly trained and licensed. Professional Surveyors Canada (PSC) represents the profession nationally, and most provinces have their own professional associations.

Before spending the money on a new land survey, make sure you don’t already have one. Hopefully, you’ve stored the paperwork that relates to the purchase of your home. Look through it. A valid land survey might be right there.

Sales activity remained well below long term averages in April. In spite of the decreased sales volume and rising inventory, prices have remained stable in both the attached and detached segments of the market. With the recent inventory gains, buyers will have more to choose from entering the busy spring market. The slower pace of sales to begin 2018 shouldn't come as a huge surprise, as the economy has yet to improve enough to offset the impact of recent changes to lending rules and regulations.

Elevated supply along with the slow pace of sales continues to weigh on the apartment sector with benchmark prices nearly 3% lower than last year and 14% lower than highs recorded in 2014.

Quick Stats:

*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.

3 Reasons Why a House Isn’t Selling

Have you ever driven by a For Sale sign and wondered, “That house has been on the market for a long time, I wonder why it isn’t selling”? You might have asked that question because you were worried the same thing would happen when you put your own house on the market!

Often a home doesn’t sell for one of three reasons:

1. The price is too high.
Sometimes a homeowner will set the listing price exceptionally high in the hopes of getting lucky. What happens instead, however, is potential buyers stay away. In today’s real estate market, a house usually sells at a price that is close to its market value. Fortunately, the current market value of your house - and, hence, its approximate selling price - may be higher than you realize. It’s worth getting a free market assessment.

2. The house doesn’t show well. 
Sometimes a house is strategically priced for the market but doesn’t show well. It’s difficult for buyers to look past issues, such as clutter, and see the potential. In those cases, prospective buyers who view the property, don’t like what they see, and move on. If you put your house on the market, make sure it looks its best for prospective buyers.

3. The listing is poorly promoted.
Clearly, buyers won’t become interested in a property if they don’t know about it. The listing must be promoted effectively, and that involves more than a For Sale sign.

Judgements Buyers Make in the First 30 Seconds

You’ve probably heard the expression, “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” When it comes to selling your home, that is definitely true. In fact, a buyer will come to several conclusions about your property within the first few minutes of seeing it. That’s why it’s so important to make a good first impression.

How do you do that?

One of the best techniques is to pretend you’re a buyer. Drive up to your home. Open the door. Step into the foyer. Take a quick look around. Then ask yourself, “What impressions am I getting from this property so far? What stands out? What impresses me? What concerns me?”

Of course, you want to get a sense that the home is attractive, spacious, and clean. You want to emphasize the enticing features, while minimizing the less desirable qualities. There are many great tricks that can help.

For example, if your foyer is small, eliminate furniture and other items in that area in order to make it look a bit more spacious.

If you have a fantastic kitchen, show it off to the buyer. Make sure the appliances sparkle. Set the table with your best dishware. Make it look like a showcase in a kitchen store. You want the buyer to see it and say, “Wow.”

Buyers make judgements about your home very quickly. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a buyer to make a comment about your property, like - “I love the high ceilings” - within the first few seconds of coming in the door. Don’t underestimate the importance of that first impression.

Of course, serious buyers will scrutinize your property more closely, especially if they have an initial interest. What you want to do is to make sure to peak that initial interest.

Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. 
©IXACT Contact Solutions Inc.

The slow pace of sales continued across all product types in March. In the first quarter of 2018, total sales were 24% below long term averages. Although the economy continues to improve, it hasn't been enough to offset the affect of higher lending rates and more stringent conditions on the market.

In spite of the declining sales numbers, prices continue to remain stable for attached and detached homes. It's clear that many buyers/sellers are taking the "wait and see" approach to the real estate market.

As has been the case for the better part of the last three years, the apartment market continues to struggle with over-supply issues with the benchmark price down nearly 3% from last year.

Quick Stats:  

*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.

5 Tips for Selling Your Home Quickly

There are several reasons why you may need to sell your home quickly. For example, a job change may require a speedy relocation to another city, or you may have purchased another property and don’t want to be stuck too long with two mortgages.

Here are some tips that can help get the sold sign on your front lawn sooner:

• Be realistic with price. If you set the listing price higher than the current market value of your home, then you’re not going to get many, if any, viewers. You want the list price to be attractive, which means listing at the current market value.
• Get things fixed. You probably don’t have time for a major renovation. So just make sure everything in your home is in good working order. Deal with any obvious maintenance issues, such as a leaking faucet or a gate hanging precariously on one hinge.
• Ensure your home shows well, inside and outside. Eliminate clutter. Trim hedges. Make sure every room has adequate lighting. Imagine that a special guest is visiting your home, and clean up and prepare accordingly.
• Be flexible with viewing times. You want as many potential buyers as possible to see your home. So, don’t restrict viewing times to just Saturdays. Make sure your home is as “available” as possible for showings. This may cause you and your family some inconvenience, but the reward will be selling your property sooner.
• Work with a real estate agent like me who understands the area and the local market well. I will be able to recommend a variety of strategies that will help sell your home faster, and for a good price.

Of course, there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll sell your home within the time frame you want. But these tips will certainly increase the chances that you will.

How to Be a Savvy Home Viewer

You will want to make the right purchasing decision for you and your family. So, it’s wise to be savvy when viewing properties for sale. Here are some ideas on how to do that:

• Bring a notepad. Take notes, not only of the home’s characteristics, but also of how you feel. For example, can you imagine yourself happily cooking up a storm in the kitchen? Do you see yourself entertaining family on the back deck?
• Bring a measuring tape. Will the furniture you plan to bring fit? Your dining room suite? Your home fitness equipment?
• Ask about maintenance. Is the property in a good state of repair? Will anything need to be replaced soon, such as the windows?
• Check out the area. Do other homeowners take good care of their properties? This shows pride of ownership. How is the noise level? Is there a playground, or another area feature nearby?
• Make a list of compromises. For example, are there only two bathrooms instead of three and, if so, can you live with that?
• Make a list of bonuses. What features does the home have that are not a necessity, but would be nice to have? For example, an entertainment bar in the recreation room.
• Remember your budget. Is the price within your range? Can you afford to buy this home? 

The savvier you are when viewing properties on the market, the more likely you will be to find your next dream home.

The arrival of March traditionally brings new real estate activity to markets all across the country. This is the time of year when families are most likely to purchase a new property so they can ensure an easier relocation during the summer. As a result, almost every community will see an influx of buyers looking for new homes. If you are wondering about taking advantage of this market or you happen to know someone who is, give me a call. I can help navigate this year’s spring market, and ensure any purchase and/or sale goes smoothly.

Market Update:

Sales eased across all product types in February. While year-over-year price growth remained relatively stable in both the detached and attached markets, apartment prices remained three per cent below last year’s levels.  The housing market continues to adjust to a number of factors including the labour market, rising lending rates and changes in lending requirements.

Quick Stats:

*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.

Remove Emotion When Selling

Most real estate experts agree that being too emotionally attached to your home can lead to poor decision making, such as over-pricing the listing and making hasty choices based on feelings rather than facts.

Of course, removing emotion from the home selling equation is easier said than done. After all, it is your home. It’s only natural to be emotionally connected to it. So, how do you ensure that emotions don’t get in the way of selling your house quickly and for the best price? Here are some strategies:

• Think of selling your property as a business transaction only. Focus your emotions on the new home you’ll be moving into soon.
• Stow as many personal items as possible, such as trophies and family pictures. Turn your home into an attractive product.
• If a buyer makes a negative comment about your property - “I hate the deck colour.” - don’t take it personally.
• Avoid judging offers to buy your house based on whether or not you like the buyer.

Finally, whenever you make a decision during the home selling process, ask yourself: “Am I making this decision based on fact or emotion?” If the answer is “fact” then, chances are, you’re on solid footing.

Make Your House "Picture Perfect" For Buyers

When you walk into a nice hotel room, what do you usually notice first? It may be the large, often beautiful picture hanging above the bed. You’ll probably find a smaller, equally attractive picture hanging in the bathroom. Often there will be at least two more adorning other walls.

That’s no accident. Hotels know that pictures are the simplest, surest way to make a good-looking room look great.

The same thing holds true when preparing your house for sale. According to home staging experts, hanging a few quality pictures can transform the look of just about any room - even a washroom!

Chances are, you already have pictures hanging in your home. Do you need more? That depends. If you have a room that seems dull, and there is open and empty wall space, try adding a picture. You don’t have to buy one or hang one - just have someone hold up an existing picture. If the look of the room improves, consider adding a picture in that spot.

Pictures don’t have to be expensive; they just need to be of good quality. Many retailers sell good-looking, nicely-framed pictures at affordable prices.

Moving to a new home can be a stressful experience. There are a myriad of details to worry about: selling your current property, finding a new home, getting financing, checking out local schools, hiring a moving company - the list goes on.

So, when you’re thinking of moving, it’s natural for you to want help. That’s where I come in. I’ll answer any questions you may have, and provide you with advice and suggestions to make the home selling/buying process easy and trouble-free.

Remember, I’m here to help!

​

Market Update:

Benchmark prices for the attached and detached sectors remained relatively unchanged from the same time last year. However, a rising number of new listings in both sectors has pushed inventory levels higher than last year. It's yet to be seen what effect the new mortgage requirements, which were introduced on Jan. 1, will have on the market. It's worth noting that the Calgary Real Estate Board has predicted that benchmark prices for detached and attached homes will remain relatively unchanged in 2018.

The apartment sector continues to face oversupply issues, however both inventory and months of supply are comparable to last year. The apartment sector will likely continue to struggle until it's able to clear some of the inventory it's been burdened with over the past three years.

​

​Quick Stats:

*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.

Take a Walk on the Boardwalk (or Sidewalk)

That’s good advice when shopping for a new home. When you see a property you like and you’re thinking of making an offer, spend some time walking around the neighbourhood. This will give you a better sense of what it’s going to be like to live there.

After all, the last thing you want is to buy a dream home only to find out later that there are issues with the neighbourhood that make living there miserable. 

If you have kids, see how far a walk it is to local parks, playgrounds, schools and community centres. 

If you commute, you might also check out the route from the neighbourhood to your place of work. Is there a left turn that is likely to get backed up in the mornings?

Also check out how well the neighbours take care of their properties. Homeowners tend to keep their homes looking good if they enjoy the neighbourhood.

As you walk, listen. Are there noises from nearby high schools, industrial areas, or highways that are going to be unpleasant for you? Find out if the neighbourhood is near an airport flight path, or if there is a railway in the area. 

If you get a chance, talk to some of the neighbours. Ask them what they like most about living in the area. You’re likely to get some candid - and useful - answers.

Finally, spend some time visualizing living in the area. Can you see yourself enjoying what the neighbourhood has to offer?

If so, then buying a home in that area will likely be a good choice for you.

The Importance of Showing Your Home Often

Imagine coming across a “Home for Sale” listing on the internet. It’s in a neighbourhood you’re seriously considering. You and your family are excited. You can hardly wait to view the property and see if it could be your next dream home.

Then, there’s a problem. 

When you contact the agent, she says the homeowners are busy people and won’t be able to show the house until next week. Even then, the only time available is at noon on Wednesday, when you’ll be miles away at work. How about viewing the property on Saturday? Forget it. The homeowners are having company over that day.

Chances are, you’ll lose interest long before you ever get a chance to see that property! 

This may sound a little extreme, but it does illustrate an important point. 

If you don’t make your home readily available for buyers to view, many simply won’t view it, and your property may not sell.

That doesn’t mean you have to be inconvenienced each day by a steady stream of buyers stomping through your property. However, you do need to be flexible.

When buyers become interested in your home - by seeing the listing online, for example, they want to view it as soon as possible. The longer they have to wait, the more likely it is that another property will capture their interest.

They may even make an offer on another home before they get a chance to see yours! 

That’s why as your REALTOR®, I’ll work with you to arrange the dates and times that your home can be shown - a schedule that’s convenient for you as well as for potential buyers.

Deciding Whether to Stay Or Sell

If you’re struggling to make that decision, here are some tips that can help:

• Find out the current market value of your home. This will give you a clear idea of how much your property is likely to sell for in today’s market.
• Find out how much you can afford to invest in a new home. This is calculated, in part, by how much of a mortgage you qualify to receive.
• Determine whether your current home still suits your needs. Do you need to move up to a larger place? Downsize to a smaller property?
• Figure out whether this is the right time to move to a neighbourhood that you’ve always dreamed of living in.
• Assess whether your neighbourhood has changed in a way that you don’t like.
• Decide whether you are still happy where you live. Is it time for a change?

As your REALTOR® I can help you answer these questions and provide the information you need to make the right decision.

The calendar is a wonderful thing! When December ends and the new year begins, it feels like a fresh start. You have a whole year ahead of you to accomplish whatever goals you’ve set. What are your dreams and plans for the coming year? A step up in your career? A home renovation? A move? An exciting vacation?

Whatever you hope to accomplish in 2018 I wish you all the best in achieving it!

MARKET UPDATE:

Sales activity for all product types improved in December and pushed monthly sales to long-term averages for the second month in a row. However, new listings also rose, keeping inventory elevated compared to typical levels for December. With more supply remaining compared to sales, benchmark prices edged down for the fifth consecutive month.

The gap between detached supply to demand closed in the first half of 2017 and supported early price growth. As prices improved, this was perceived as a signal for many who delayed selling their home and caused a late rise in inventory which limited price growth. Overall, the detached benchmark price in 2017 averaged $504,867, 0.63 per cent above last year’s levels.

In the attached sector, the first half of the year saw an improvement in sales relative to inventory levels. This supported stronger price gains in the second and third quarter. However, a late rise in inventory levels took some of the momentum away from price growth in the fourth quarter.

Challenges continue to face the apartment sector, with elevated supply in the resale market. Competition from the new home and rental markets also weighed on this sector. The excess supply caused average annual benchmark prices to decline by four per cent this year. This is a total annual adjustment of nearly 12 per cent since the start of the recession. 

QUICK STATS:

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.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR, ROOM BY ROOM

When viewing a home for sale, many buyers look at the property from a “macro” perspective. They ask themselves questions like: “Is it large enough?”; “Are there enough bedrooms?”; “Is it in a nice neighbourhood?” While those questions are important, it also pays to consider a potential new home from a “micro” perspective.

Here are some things to consider:

Living room and family room. Are they large enough to fit all the furniture? Are the rooms conducive to family get-togethers and entertaining? Do you need a separate living room and family room?

Kitchen. Is it important to have enough space to eat comfortably in the kitchen as well as the dining room? Does the kitchen have all the cupboard and other storage space you need? Will your fridge fit?

Bathroom. Is the main floor bathroom uncomfortably small? Does the ensuite bathroom have all the features you desire, such as a large tub and/or separate shower? Do you need double sinks?

Bedrooms. Is the master bedroom large enough to fit the bed and other furniture? Does it have the closet space you need? Are the other bedrooms large enough for your needs? (It’s a good idea to get the measurements of these rooms as it can be difficult to judge measurements during a viewing.)

Storage space. This is particularly important if you’re shopping for a condo. Does the storage space or locker have the space you need?

Closets. Are there enough closets for your needs? Is there a linen closet?

Garage. Homeowners use the garage for more than just cars. If you plan to use this space for storage or hobbies, check that the garage will be suitable for those purposes.

DON'T FORGET HOME INSURANCE

Once your property has sold, you’ll need to contact your insurance company to let them know the date that ownership of your property will be transferred (the “closing date”). They’ll arrange to cancel your insurance once you’re no longer the owner of that property.

If you’ll be taking possession of your new home, and leaving your current property vacant for a period of time, you’ll need to make sure both properties are insured. This may also apply to a condominium even if the unit is completely empty. (Contact your insurance company to ask about continuing liability coverage while discontinuing the insurance on contents.)

When you purchase a new home, don’t leave the insurance to the last minute. Contact your insurance company right away. Make sure they are aware of all the features of the new home that may reduce your premiums, such as alarms, and wired-in smoke detectors.

THINGS TO CHECK DURING THE WEEKS AFTER MOVING DAY

When you purchase a new home, the most exciting day is closing day. That’s the day you take possession of the property and, in most cases, move in. But the process isn’t necessarily over. There are still some important details to take care of in the weeks and months after the move.

For example, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re getting all your mail. Ideally, you will have made arrangements with the post office prior to your move to have your mail redirected to your new address. However, that service will eventually expire. Here’s a tip: Introduce yourself to the new owners of your old property. Ask them if they wouldn’t mind holding any of your mail that has been inadvertently delivered to them and you’ll make arrangements to stop by periodically to pick it up. Chances are, they won’t mind.

Also in the weeks after the move, you should take care of any repairs or other maintenance issues that were identified before you purchased the home. In the busy days leading up to moving day and in the excitement of settling in, these issues are easy to forget. You don’t want them to become bigger issues later on.

The year is almost over and soon 2018 will officially arrive. Although you may be very busy this month, you’re probably spending some time thinking about what you’d like to do and accomplish in the coming year. Perhaps you’d like to get some repairs done around your home, do some redecorating, or take the plunge into a new renovation project.

Alternatively, your plans may be more personal, and include taking a course or planning an exotic vacation overseas. Whatever your goals and dreams are for 2018, I wish you all the best in achieving them. If any of those aspirations have to do with your home, give me a call. I may be able to help.

Warmest wishes to you and your family. I look forward to staying in touch in the new year.

MARKET UPDATE:

Sales picked up in November, likely due to increased consumer confidence as well as pending mortgage rule changes. Most of this activity occurred in the attached and detached segments, particularly in the sub $500k price point. Total sales in November closely resembled long-term averages for the month; the last time this happened was in October of 2016. The benchmark price edged down on a month-to-month basis for attached and detached homes, but they remain slightly higher than at the same time last year. The condo market continues to face significant headwinds, particularly in the city centre, north, and south east districts.

QUICK STATS:

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.

HOW MUCH WOULD YOUR HOME SELL FOR TODAY?

As your REALTOR®, I will look at a variety of characteristics to determine the current market value of your home. These will include the number of bedrooms/bathrooms, the condition of the kitchen and other rooms, the type/style of the home, the location and neighbourhood. These characteristics will then be used to identify similar homes in the area and determine how much they have sold for recently.

Interested in finding out how much your home would sell for in today’s market? Call me today.

GOAL SETTING TIPS FROM THE MOTIVATIONAL MASTERS

Tony Robbins recommends that you, “Decide what you’re absolutely committed to achieving, take massive action, and notice what’s working or not. Then, keep changing your approach until you’ve achieved what you want.”

Jack Canfield, co-author of the Chicken Soup For The Soul series, says, “Write your goals down in detail and read that list every day. Then ask yourself, what can I do today to move closer to achieving one of my goals?”

When you’re feeling discouraged, motivational guru Zig Ziglar provides this simple truth: “You do everything better when you’re thinking positively than when you’re thinking negatively.”

And, although most are not superstar authors, social scientists who study goal achievement recommend that you focus on no more than five goals at a time, and mix performance goals such as “Lose 10 pounds” with learning goals such as “Learn how to cook five new nutritious meals.”

So, set a goal and achieve it. This is your year!

I hope you had a wonderful Halloween! As is often the case, it seems like winter has hit Calgary like a ton of bricks. Here's a fun (and depressing) fact, the difference in high temperature from last Saturday to this Saturday was a whopping 36 degrees...

Hopefully you didn't leave it to the last minute to change over your winter tires like I did.

MARKET UPDATE:

Calgary's housing market continued its recent trend of easing sales, rising inventories and downward price pressure. Several months of elevated supply in comparison to demand has weighed on pricing over the past few months. In addition, I believe the recent lending rate hikes as well as changes to lending policy have also contributed to the weaker market conditions.

That being said, benchmark prices for the detached and attached segments remain above last year's levels. The apartment sector continues to face oversupply issues, particularly in the downtown core.

QUICK STATS:

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.

STAGING THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT ROOMS

When your home is shown to potential buyers, every room is important. However, there are three types of rooms that buyers tend to pay particular attention to: kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

How do you make these rooms look great? Use these staging tips from professionals.

In the kitchen, make sure the stove, sink and countertops are spotless. In addition, the countertops should be clear of anything that isn’t absolutely necessary. You want to create the impression that there is a lot of counter space!

In the cupboards, refrigerator and pantry, make sure all food items are facing forward.

In the bathrooms, make sure everything is clean and uncluttered, especially around the toilet and in the cabinet under the sink. Remove personal items from the countertop. If there is a shower curtain, keep it open. Make sure that the towels match and are neatly hung on the rack.

As a rule of thumb, the more you can make the bathrooms look like those in a nice hotel, the better!

In the bedrooms, make sure the bed is neatly made, preferably with matching covers and pillow cases. Make sure that items that are stored under the bed are not sticking out enough to be seen. 

Closets should be tidy with nothing on the floor except shoes (neatly arranged). It’s okay to have a lot of clothes, as long as they are all hanging neatly. If there are non-clothing items in the closet - such as loose files and papers - store them somewhere else.

Don’t leave any clothes lying on the bed, chair or dresser, even if they are nicely folded. Don’t have anything in the laundry hamper.

THE PRACTICALLY PERFECT OPEN HOUSE

If you plan to have an open house to help sell your property, you will obviously want to make the best impression possible on potential buyers.

It is very important that all minor repairs be completed before the open house. Even a squeaking door can be a distraction to buyers.

Obviously, you’re going to make sure everything is clean and uncluttered. Also consider the lighting. Check that every room is well lit and that there are no burnt-out bulbs. This is especially important in darker spaces.

If you have pets, consider taking them to a “pet day camp” or kennel, or just take them for a long walk in the park. Pets and open houses are rarely a good mix. You don’t want buyers with allergies feeling uncomfortable.

If possible, remove personal items such as family pictures and trophies. Remember that buyers want to visualize themselves living in the home, and your personal items become a distraction. 

Finally, avoid being home during your open house. Let me, as your REALTOR® be the host!

Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. 
©IXACT Contact Solutions Inc.

Inventory levels rose across all sectors in September. This increase is preventing further price recovery, as sales activity has moderated over recent months. Although benchmark prices remain above last year's levels for detached and attached homes, the recovery will likely continue to be a slow process until more substantial economic improvements take hold. The apartment sector continues to struggle with price declines resulting from oversupply, which is currently in excess of 8 months.

QUICK STATS

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.

CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORT

Of course, having something negative on your credit report is nothing to laugh about. When shopping for a home, it can even get in the way of securing a good mortgage.

If you don't know what your credit report says, it's relatively easy to find out. Just visit websites like Equifax or Trans Union. You can order a copy of your credit report from either of these companies for a reasonable fee. If there is any incorrect information about you – which isn't uncommon on credit reports – you can request an immediate correction. If there is derogatory information that isn't a mistake – such as a few late payments – you're entitled to have your side of the story included in your credit report. For example, if you were unemployed for a few months, and that's the reason you were behind on a few bills, then it may be helpful to let lenders know.

PLAN YOUR MOVE WELL IN ADVANCE

One of the most common mistakes made by home buyers and sellers is not arranging for moving day well in advance. Even if you've just put your property on the market, or are only in the beginning stages of shopping for a new home, you should start planning for moving day now. If you don't, you might find yourself scrambling to make arrangements, which can be – to put it mildly – stressful.

Start now by researching moving companies and making a short list. You should also find economical sources of boxes, bubble wrap and other packaging materials you may need. If you plan to do some or all of the move yourself, don't assume that uncle Ned is going to help you. Get rock solid commitments from any family or friends who have volunteered to be there on moving day.

LITTLE TOUCH UPS THAT MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

You are probably already aware of the major things you need to do around your home to get it ready for sale. These include getting rid of clutter, doing minor repairs, and making everything clean and tidy so every room is as much of a showcase as possible. But there are a myriad of little touch ups you can do that you may not have thought about before… touch ups that can make a big difference in how attractive your home looks to potential buyers.

Here are just a few:

• Paint or replace the mailbox.
• Add a couple of flowering plants to key areas, such as the dining room, living room, and just outside the front door.
• Patch up any minor cracks in the driveway and walkways. (If there is a major crack, consider getting it repaired by a professional.)
• Put out the welcome mat. Literally! If it's not clean and completely free of stains, replace it.
• Clean your stainless steel kitchen sink using a special stainless steel cleaner and brightener. The effect will be dramatic; the sink will look like new.
• Use a special spot cleaner to lift any stains from carpeted areas.
• Replace plain or out-of-style light fixtures in the main areas of your home, such as the hallway and living room. Without spending a fortune, you can make a big difference in how these areas look.
• Consider replacing the hardware on the doors and drawers of old kitchen cabinetry. That, along with some touch-up paint or varnish on worn areas, can make your older kitchen look young again.

These simple ideas can have a big impact on first impressions, yet they don't cost much to implement, and you can probably do most of them in less than a day.

MARKET UPDATE

Detached sales increased slightly from a year ago, however total inventory is up as well. This is the seventh consecutive month where inventory levels have increased. Overall the detached benchmark price pulled back very slightly from July but still sits 1.5% higher than a year ago.

The attached market remained stable with the benchmark price exactly the same as July. Sales slightly outpaced new listings which led to a small drop in supply from last month. Overall the attached and detached markets are performing relatively similar to each other.

Apartment prices continued to decline last month. The August benchmark price of $263,300 was 1% lower than July and down over 3% from a year ago. High inventory numbers continue to weigh heavily on the segment.

QUICK STATS

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.

WHAT A BUYER'S THINKING WHEN VIEWING YOUR HOME

That’s good advice for you to consider when you’re putting your home up for sale. You need to imagine what a buyer might be thinking while viewing your property, so you can prepare your home more effectively for that sale.

Here are some things buyers may be wondering:

• Is this the type of home we’re looking for? Does it have the ideal number of bedrooms, etc.?
• Are the rooms spacious enough for our needs?
• Are there any repairs or other maintenance issues that need to be addressed?
• How old is the property? Is there anything major, such as a furnace, that will need to be replaced soon?
• What is the neighbourhood like? Will we be happy living in this area? Is it safe?
• Is this home going to fit our lifestyle? Is there an area for the kids to play? Is there ample room for entertaining? Is the dining room large enough for dinner with family and relatives?

Of course, these are only a few of the many questions a buyer may have while viewing your home. 

The more you can anticipate these questions and prepare your home accordingly, the better the chances that you’ll sell it quickly and for a good price. 

For example, remember that clutter will make a room appear smaller. So, make sure to de-clutter your home – especially the smaller spaces and cupboards. 

If your house is in a desirable neighbourhood, create a list of area features (i.e. local parks, access to public transit, walking paths, etc.) to help buyers appreciate the value of living there. 

Basically, when you’re preparing your home for sale, think like a prospective buyer!

SMART PACKING TIPS FOR MOVING DAY

The last thing you need after a long moving day is to discover that a valuable item was damaged. That’s certain to dampen your spirits when you’re just getting settled into your new home. Here are some packing tips to help ensure that doesn’t happen:

• Avoid worn-out or damaged boxes as they are more likely to tear open during a move.
• Pack glass and similar items in bubble wrap or foam chips – but not too tightly. Include just enough to ensure there’s no rattling.
• Use small boxes for heavier items. A big box of books is difficult to lift. (Experts say a box shouldn’t weigh more than 50 lbs.)
• Use anti-static packing materials for sensitive electronics, such as computers, cameras, and flash-drives.
• Purchase specialty packaging for items such as dishes, musical instruments, and valuable clothing. It’s worth the investment.
• Don’t pack a box so full that there’s a bulge.
• Wind and tie electrical cords.

Finally, if possible, personally carry irreplaceable items (such as family photographs) with you to your new home.

WHEN TO CONSIDER A LESS THAN IDEAL HOME

Obviously, when you’re searching for a new home, you want to find one that is ideal. It should be your next dream home. However, sometimes it pays to consider at least some properties that don’t meet all your criteria. After all, you never know whether one of them is actually your next dream home - in disguise!

ay you’re looking for a home with a beautiful kitchen - the kind you envy on TV cooking shows. Then, you view a property that has everything you need - except that big kitchen. 

Ask yourself these questions: 

1. Can you fix it? 
Perhaps some redecorating or a renovation can turn that so-so kitchen into one you’ve always wanted. Take some time to imagine the possibilities. 

2. Can you live with it? 
The kitchen might not have everything you want. It may be smaller than you’d hoped. But, can you make it work? Can you compromise a little given that the home has so many of the other features you want? Perhaps you can live with a smaller kitchen - that still looks great.

Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. 
©IXACT Contact Solutions Inc.

During the year, you probably come across a lot of people - friends, neighbours, relatives - who are thinking about buying or selling a home. The biggest question on their mind is likely, “How much would my current property sell for today?” As a REALTOR® it’s my job to know what’s happening in the real estate market. So, I can give them a good idea of how much their property would likely sell for, given today’s market conditions. Feel free to give them my name. I’d be happy to help them in any way I can.

MARKET UPDATE:

The detached market continues to improve in Calgary with the benchmark price up nearly 2% from last year. A rise in inventory and fewer total sales compared to last year has pushed the months of supply above three for the first time since January. This will provide buyers with more choice than in previous months.

Like the detached market, attached homes also trended upwards last month. Both markets are moving in a similar direction with modest price gains and increased inventory and months of supply. This increase to inventory levels along with the recent lending rate hike could slow the pace of recovery in the housing market.

The apartment sector continues to face oversupply issues in both the new and resale market. Benchmark prices are down a little more than 3% from a year ago and overall are down close to 12% from their peak. As always, prices and market strength vary widely across different locations and price points. 

QUICK STATS:

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.

BE A SAVVY HOME VIEWER

Here are some tips on how to do just that:

• Take the time to carefully view each room, including closets and storage areas.
• Make sure you have measurements of all the rooms.
• Imagine yourself living in the home. Where will you have dinner? How will your furniture look? What is it going to be like to travel to work and school each day? Where will your kids play?
• Get a professional home inspection. Then, make sure you read and understand the report.
• Understand and get estimates for any maintenance and repair issues, such as required bathroom upgrades or roof shingles that need replacement.
• Walk the neighbourhood and get a clear sense of what it’s going to be like to live there.
• Carefully consider any negative issues before telling yourself, “I can live with this.”