Archive for the ‘First Time Buyer’ Category
Sunday, May 17th, 2015
The Calgary real estate market has witnessed a major boom in condominium development and sales in the past few years. It is fueled by the influx of people wanting to move to condos – a part of an overall urbanization trend. More and more home buyers, many of which are young, single professionals, dual-career couples or empty nesters looking to downsize, are becoming attracted to the condo lifestyle.
Although condo living represents the perfect blend of affordability and simplicity for numerous home buyers, it doesn’t always follow that it’s what everybody wants. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when deciding if a condo would be suitable for you:
Pros
In many instances, a condo purchase is simply the more affordable option than a single-family home. Reduced square footage and property means reduced expenses, which is particularly beneficial when it comes to saving for a down payment. Condos require less maintenance – a LOT less maintenance. The fact that they require little work means that many on the market are truly in move-in condition. A good number of today’s consumers are no longer attracted to the classic suburban tract home with large yards. Young and older buyers alike are looking for a more carefree lifestyle that provides plenty of time for leisure activity.
Some condo buildings and associations provide round-the-clock security for residents. This greatly contributes to a heightened sense of security for the occupants. If downtown living is what you seek, then the condo life is probably the right choice for you.
Cons
Generally, condos are more susceptible to downward fluctuations in value. In weak real estate cycles, they tend to depreciate faster and appreciate at a much slower pace than single-family homes. This is a distinct disadvantage if you are not intending to stay for more than 5 years.
Definitely, the lawn mowing, snow removal and exterior upkeep will be taken care of. However, someone still has to pay for such services. Membership in a condominium association comes with a price, and it is in the form of monthly homeowner association fees. This is actually your share in the maintenance and repairs of the building. You would need to add this to the principal and interest dues under their mortgage loan when calculating the affordability of a condo unit.
If you have children or just like to relax in a backyard, realize that in a condo, your activity will be limited to the community’s common areas. Although it is free for use, it is important to know that condo association membership comes complete with a long list of rules and regulations governing everything from pets to outdoor grills to window treatments. Some people find this reassuring and necessary, while others take offense at the very notion of being told what to do. If you are a non-conformist at heart with little patience for rules and regulations, condo living may not be for you.
Condo living is a lifestyle choice. Take a minute to carefully deliberate on all the pros and cons before deciding if it’s the perfect fit for you.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Condo for Sale, Calgary Homes for Sale, Calgary Real Estate, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Sunday, May 3rd, 2015
When taking stock of a home’s best features, updated bathrooms, custom-built kitchen cabinets and expensive landscaping are usually the focus. Savvy real estate pros and homeowners, who have been through the cycle of buying and selling several times, very well know that location has a far greater impact than expensive amenities. Keen buyers seek to find a home in a very short list of neighbourhoods, and, understandably, will wait until the right property comes on the market.
The atmosphere, lifestyle and overall look and feel of a community make it attractive to certain groups of people. While it is largely a matter of personal preference, in any city, there are a number of coveted areas ranging from the unique architecture, to access to quality schools and water views that stand out from the rest. The concept of a nice neighbourhood and a good school district tends to go hand in hand. It should be no surprise that homes here benefit greatly. In addition, access to transportation, shopping centres and restaurants are some other factors that weigh heavily today. The continuous high demand for houses in such locations ensures a steady uptick in value for homeowners and low turnover rate for landlords.
While buyers can always dream of modernizing a dated kitchen or finishing a basement space, there is not really a lot they can do on their own to change the character of a neighbourhood. In Calgary, we are fortunate to have a multitude of thriving, sought-after and diverse localities that continue to attract consumers. There is truly something for everyone here.
On the other hand, if you are a seller in a sought-after neighbourhood, consider yourself fortunate. You made an excellent choice when you purchased your home as predilection for your particular street address will almost certainly ensure a quick and profitable sale.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Homes for Sale, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Sunday, April 19th, 2015
The dictionary defines transition as “a passage from one form, state, style or place to another.” If you think about it, you will realize that every day of our lives involves some sort of transition – whether it is physical, emotional or spiritual. Even though we are in that continuous state, most of us still fear change because it tends to jolt us out of our comfort zones. The best way to handle it is to merely stop resisting and just embrace the opportunities and challenges that come with it.
Many baby boomers today deal with housing progressions on several different levels. Simultaneously, as they wave goodbye to their children leaving the nest, many also attend to the housing essentials of elderly parents requiring nursing care or assisted living. Many active boomers and retirees are equally interested in splitting their time and spending the winter months in a warmer climate. If not properly managed, it can be very stressful. Not surprisingly, many of my clients are eager to shift to a more simple, carefree way of life.
The decision to sell the family home is a big one. Any move will merit careful consideration and planning. There are so many choices available to empty nesters – everything from apartments, smaller homes, condominiums, to age-restricted communities or assisted living for those in need of help in managing daily living. The key to making a smooth transition at each stage of your housing life cycle is to explore all options and make an informed decision as to what lifestyle works best for you. Then, instead of allowing thoughts of adjustment to overwhelm you, choose to celebrate change with a home that fits!
If your children are out on their own and you find yourself dreading weekend chores and taking care of a big house, then maybe you should already consider downsizing. Imagine yourself with reduced expenses and more spare time to experience all those things on your bucket list. Let someone else take care of the snow removal and yard maintenance. You’ve got places to go! In Calgary, there are endless downsizing alternatives available to empty nesters and others looking to simplify their lives. If you decide to downsize, pay careful attention to the neighbourhood and its amenities since you will likely be able to enjoy both.
You can spend years trying to time the real estate market and maximize profits, but that is really the job of real estate investors. When you are talking about your own home, you resolve to move when your current home no longer meets your needs and you are ready to go forward toward the next phase of your life. Whether you are upsizing, downsizing or making a lateral move, work closely with a professional Realtor who can guide you through the process and help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Real Estate, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Sunday, April 5th, 2015
Are you thinking about selling your home and going the FSBO route (For Sale By Owner) in order to save the cost of a commission? Before making that decision, take the time to consider a few of the many reasons why it makes sense to work with a professional Realtor when selling your home.
Realtors are Trained Professionals
Would you ever consider rewiring the electricity in your home without consulting a trained and licensed electrician? Of course not – unless you are an electrician yourself. So why would you consider handling the sale of a valuable real estate asset without the help of a licensed professional? Real estate transactions are complex matters subject to all kinds of rules and regulations and fraught with potential pitfalls at every turn. As I write this blog, the median sale price for a home in Calgary is $420,000. That’s a lot of money to put into the hands of an inexperienced amateur.
Today’s real estate agents are more highly educated, trained and subject to rigid ethical guidelines. In addition to pricing and marketing your property for sale, they must know how to coordinate and work closely with mortgage bankers, home inspectors, appraisers, environmental consultants and government agencies. Even if you feel you are qualified, do you really have what it takes to pull everything together? Remember that in real estate transactions, time lost equates to money pulled from your pocket.
Realtors Have Full Access to the MLS
While most non-professionals can get on the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), it is not the full access granted to licensed subscribers. You will only see a fraction of the information available to professionals. The full spectrum of reliable information and up-to-date data available in the MLS is of utmost importance in determining home value and monitoring market trends.
Buyers are Working with Realtors
We are living in a world that relies on instant access to information and demands immediate gratification. The best way to ensure a quick property sale at your asking price is to list the property in the MLS. Buyers’ agents everywhere will receive a notice of a new listing right away. Your buyer is out there somewhere and the best platform to reach them is through the MLS.
Realtors are Objective
Property owners are notoriously sentimental when it comes to their own homes. There is simply no way to remain objective when talking about something you’ve poured your heart and soul into. An experienced Realtor removes emotion from the equation and shields his or her client from the stress inherent in the daily twists and turns of real estate transactions.
Those who go the FSBO route almost always find they haven’t saved any money at all when it’s time to close the deal. Do yourself a favor, save yourself time, money and aggravation – work with a pro.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Condo for Sale, Calgary Homes for Sale, Calgary Real Estate, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Wednesday, March 25th, 2015
There is no surefire way to burglarproof your home, but there are a number of actions you can take to make your home less attractive to thieves. Unfortunately, many people refuse to even think about protecting their homes from burglary until an incident occurs. At that point, they feel frightened, confused and violated and do not always make rational decisions. Why not allot a few minutes of your time and have a closer look at your home? If you have not yet done so, do these simple steps to discourage any uninvited guests.
Find a better hiding spot for your spare key – Hiding a spare key under the doormat or flower pot, or in the mailbox is not the way to go. Sure it’s comforting to know that if you lose your keys or lock yourself out, there’s always an extra set you can rely on. This, however, also makes it very convenient for burglars. Those are the first places they will look into, if they even have to, because they have already seen you or a family member keep it there. It is better to not have a hidden key at all, but if you must, find a not-so-obvious hiding spot and move it to another location every so often.
Proper lighting is essential – The importance of a well-placed lighting cannot be stressed enough. There are inexpensive timers for indoor lights which can be set to come on at dusk, whether you are home or not. Similarly, consider investing in outdoor solar lighting or motion lights that are triggered by sensors when somebody approaches your home. Other than discouraging burglars, such lights are great for conserving energy, and help to prevent slips and falls, too.
Never let strangers know that no one is home – Take the time to stage your home to make it look like someone is always there. This involves everything – from making sure the newspaper and mail are collected daily, to arranging for yard maintenance and snow shovelling should you be gone for more than just a few days. Nothing says “come rob me” like an unshovelled walkway leading to a dark house with no cars in the driveway. Also, offer to take care of your neighbor’s home when they are away and they will most likely return the favor.
Lock all doors and gates – This may seem obvious, but it needs to be said since we all tend to forget at times. Make it a habit to lock all doors whenever you come or go, and you will eventually remember to do it every time. Since many burglars enter a home through the backyard, outfit any gates leading to the rear of your home with a good quality lock.
Invest in a Home Security System – Home security systems come in all shapes, sizes and price ranges these days. Alarm companies will install a basic system throughout your house for a very small cost. Just start simple since you can always enhance it later on. As an added bonus, most include fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. On top of that, you will also be rewarded with a significant discount on your homeowner’s insurance premium. If money is no object, think about investing in a state-of-the-art “smart” system which you can control through your mobile phone or tablet from anywhere in the world.
Upscale communities are the usual targets of professional thieves. Fact is, no neighbourhood is exempt. Home burglaries can and do happen everywhere. So, do what you can to keep your home from becoming a statistic.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Advice, Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Calgary, Calgary Realtor, Realtor, Securing Your Home, Security
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Sunday, February 15th, 2015
Looking at homes is a fun experience for most buyers, but spending excessive time looking at the wrong homes can become frustrating. Most people want to see enough properties so they can make a purchase with confidence. However, seeing too many homes can become overwhelming and make it even more difficult to make a decision.
Here are four tips to narrow down your search and find a home that works for you:
Determine your ideal neighbourhood. Are you looking for an older home in a mature neighbourhood, or do you have your sights set on something fairly new with modern finishes? In addition, think about other important factors, such as the schools within proximity, access to amenities and your travel time to work. Establishing your preferences will help you decide on the right area for you.
Consider the right type of home. How much space do you need? Buying a smaller place such as a townhome or condo might be the right decision for a limited budget, but don’t forget to think about your long-term needs. The longer a home suits your needs, the more equity you can build up over time.
Establish your budget. Speaking to a mortgage professional should be one of the first things you do as a home buyer. Find out how much money you will need to put down and determine your maximum approval range. Based on these figures, consider how much you are actually comfortable spending. Don’t just look at the purchase price, think about your monthly budget.
Consider your priorities. Make a list of your must-haves and the things you are willing to compromise. Communicate your needs with your Realtor to help you avoid homes that simply aren’t contenders in your search. Acquire knowledge on the types of homes that are available within your desired price range and keep an open mind to avoid missing out on great opportunities.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Real Estate, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Monday, January 12th, 2015
Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holidays and found plenty of time for rest and relaxation. 2014 was busy and eventful, and it always feels refreshing to turn the page on a brand new year. It’s time for a fresh start and the anticipation to accomplish goals for another twelve months. I like to reflect on what I have achieved last year and what I’d like to improve on this year. It is another opportunity to push ourselves to a new level of success.
Surround yourself with people who inspire you. As the saying goes, “It’s hard to soar with the eagles if you’re surrounded with turkeys.” Whether your goals are personal or professional, positive people can inspire you to aim high and challenge you to grow. Look for qualities that you admire in your peers and find ways to incorporate those good habits into your routine. Better yet, find a mentor to keep you on track and hold you accountable to stick to your plan.
Attitude is everything. You’ve heard it a thousand times, but being reminded to keep your attitude in check is invaluable advice. Being positive will help you appreciate your successes, combat your personal challenges, and see the potential in the opportunities before you. Take some time every day to give yourself credit for your hard work and be thankful for all the blessings that surround you. Keeping a Gratitude journal can be a great help and inspiration.
Never stop learning. Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of personal growth. Many people leave school and education behind once they begin their careers, but don’t make that mistake. Be sure to allot time in your schedule to keep learning. There are so many ways to expand your mind and enrich your life. Read a great book, sign up for a cooking class, or plan a vacation to a country you’ve always wanted to explore. I love to read and travel – both have been great learning experiences for me.
Welcome to 2015! I look forward to connecting with you this year.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Calgary, Calgary Real Estate, Condominiums, First Time Buyer, Personal, Real Estate, Realtor Allison James
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Sunday, November 9th, 2014
Last year, the Calgary Real Estate Board made the decision to uphold a rule that is somewhat unique in Canadian real estate. Section 18.02 of the Calgary Real Estate Board’s Rules and Regulations states this: “All conditional sales will be reported at the time of acceptance of a conditional offer sale except where the Seller has given written instruction not to report the conditional sale until conditions are waived in writing.”
So what does this mean for buyers? In the past, when a buying agent looked up a property of interest, they would be able to see if there was currently an offer on the property. In most cases, buyers wouldn’t want to waste their time viewing a home that was “nearly sold”. With this rule in place, there is a certain level of uncertainty in the buying process. As a buyer, if you happen to put an offer on a home that already has one pending, the other buyers may feel pressured to waive their conditions if they know another offer is waiting in the wings.
This rule also emphasises the importance of doing your homework before you buy so that you can offer the shortest possible condition period. Speak to your mortgage professional and have a pre-approval in place, so the underwriting process can move along quickly and you can seal the deal as soon as possible.
What does this mean for sellers? As a seller, this gives you a choice. If you choose to allow your REALTOR® to report a conditional sale once you have one in place, you won’t be bothered with any additional showings. However, if the offer falls through, you may have missed out on potential buyers during the condition period. Keeping your listing showing as active on the public site while showing it as “under contract” on the Realtor site is one way to handle this – that way, anyone who is truly interested in viewing your house will be able to view it and put in a backup offer. There is no “right way” to handle this decision. It all comes down to the marketability of your property, the quality of the offer that you have in hand, and your overall real estate strategy. Your REALTOR® is qualified to explain your options and represent your best interest in the transaction.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Calgary, NDC, Non-Disclosure of Conditional Rules, Real Estate Conditional Rules
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Sunday, September 28th, 2014
As the price of homes continue to increase in Calgary, more buyers are directing their home search towards the condo market. There are dozens of new developments in the planning stages around the city, and investors from all over the country are setting their sights on Calgary. If you have never lived in a condo before, but are considering this affordable and low-maintenance living option, you will be pleasantly surprised at all of the advantages.
First-time condo owners always have some apprehension about paying condo fees. The key is to find out what that fee includes. Each building is different, and the fees vary depending on the amenities that are included. Keep in mind the fees often include some of your utilities, building maintenance, insurance, and security systems.
Many of the upscale buildings also offer swimming pools, BBQ areas and party rooms. This is the perfect solution for homeowners who are hesitating to downsize because they enjoy entertaining. The amenities are available for the residents to use whenever they need them, sometimes on a rental basis for exclusive use. The shared common areas also foster a sense of community within the building – ideal for active seniors or young professionals looking to make new friends in the city.
One of the best features of many of Calgary’s condo buildings is the location. If you are thinking of going car-free, condo living is the way to go. Is there a downtown neighbourhood that you have always wanted to live in? Condo living allows you to live where you want, on your budget.
What does your ideal neighbourhood look like – dozens of shops and restaurants within walking distance? Condo living promotes an active lifestyle. Many buyers are choosing classy, modern condos that put them right at the heart of the action. Condo living isn’t about compromise. It’s about getting everything you want in a location, at a fraction of the price.
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Calgary, Calgary Condo for Sale, Calgary Homes for Sale, Calgary Real Estate, Condominiums, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
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Monday, September 15th, 2014
Although it took a few extra weeks for the summer to get here, it was an exciting season in the Calgary real estate market. Year to date, sales were up 11% compared to 2013, and home values increased by nearly 7% across the board.
Many sellers were cautious about making a move earlier this year. There simply weren’t enough listings to choose from and as a result, they were hesitant to put their own home on the market. Inventory was low, competition was fierce, and many buyers were feeling discouraged that they may not find the right home in their price range. Fortunately, Calgary has now entered a much more balanced market. There are more active listings, and the ratio of buyers to sellers is at a comfortable level.
One segment of the market that is on the verge of some significant growth is the condo sector. As home prices continue to increase, first-time buyers and downsizers are looking for a more affordable alternative. There are dozens of new developments being planned around the city, many of which offer trendy downtown locations. The local condo market has captured the attention of investors and developers all across Canada who are scoping out available land for their next exciting project. If you have been considering purchasing an investment property, stay tuned for some fabulous new opportunities in Calgary.
Another by-product of a rapidly growing economy can be found in Calgary’s luxury home market. According to CREB, the number of sales that exceeded the $1 million price point has increased by 20% compared to last year, and there is a growing pool of buyers who are entering the luxury home market. Calgary continues to be one of the most affordable major cities in Canada, and consumers are recognizing the value of investing in a rapidly growing market.
If you are thinking of making a move this year, the timing couldn’t be better. Homes are selling faster than ever, and there are still plenty of great deals to be found around the city. Fall may be in the air, but there is still plenty of time to find your new home before the snow flies!
Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!
About Allison James
Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.
Tags: Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Real Estate, Condominiums, First Time Buyer, Real Estate
Posted in Allison James, Allison James Calgary, Allison James Realtor, Buyer, Calgary, Calgary Real Estate, Condominiums, First Time Buyer, Real Estate | Comments Off on Calgary Fall Real Estate Market Update
