Allison James

Now that the holiday season is behind us, it is time to settle in for the long winter – Calgary style – and that means heading outdoors for winter fun.  While the winter wonderlands in Banff and Canmore are just over an hour away, there are plenty of outdoor winter activities to enjoy right here in Calgary.

Calgary’s Walking Trails and Pathways

Calgary is home to the largest network of pathways and walking trails in North America.  Nearly 350 km of the 800 km system of trails and pathways are cleared of snow by the City every year, making it easy to enjoy the natural landscape from easily accessible walking paths. The Bow River pathway system includes several Priority 1 pathways that are cleared of snow within 24 hours.  If the cold is too much for you, take advantage of the City’s renowned +15 System, the elaborate network of 63 enclosed sky bridges connecting over 100 buildings in downtown Calgary. Named for the fact that the bridges were constructed 15 feet off the ground at second story building height, a stroll through a portion of the 20 km system permits you to enjoy the sunshine with protection from harsh weather elements.

Canada Olympic Park

Calgary’s Canada Olympic Park (COP), located off the TransCanada Parkway, is the convenient solution to the quandary of how to squeeze fun and exercise into a busy schedule.  Open seven days a week, COP offers hills and half pipes for beginners to experts in skiing, snowboarding and snow skating, which is roughly akin to skateboarding or snowboarding without bindings.  Come on out and enjoy a few downhill runs or a bobsled run at this world-class facility.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is a great spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  The scenery is magnificent and use of the ungroomed natural trails is free of charge.  Snowshoeing is a suitable activity for the entire family and a great way to commune with nature, clear your head and educate children on the wonders of wildlife and the natural world.

Whether you are into action-oriented sports like snowboarding and downhill skiing or the slower pace of a stroll through a grove of fir trees in the park, there is fun to be had all winter long in Calgary.  Grab your skis, snowshoes, skates, sled or hiking boots and head outdoors.  Warm clothes, a cup of hot chocolate or sunshine and a warm chinook wind will help you weather the cold. Welcome to winter in Calgary!

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.

You have probably heard talk that the holiday season is not a good time to launch a house hunt. That is not necessarily true. Any time of year is a good time to start searching for the home of your dreams. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind during this time of year to make sure your holiday enthusiasm and year-end considerations do not push you into making a rash decision.

Be prepared for low inventory levels.

For many reasons, homeowners are often not enthusiastic about listing their home for sale during the holidays. As a result, inventory is traditionally low this time of year. That does not mean, however, that your dream home is not out there waiting for you, so don’t be shy about looking and remember that there are bargains to be had with sellers who need to close by the end of the year. You won’t know until you sit down with your Realtor and take a look at what’s available. The house that someone else needs to get rid of in a hurry may end up being your best Christmas present ever.

Beware of what lies beneath.

A foot of snow and some well-placed holiday wreaths can hide serious problems if you fail to take a close look. There is no need to waive your right to a home inspection simply because it is disruptive. By all means, politely ask the seller to remove any trimmings that may be hiding drafty windows or holes in the wall. It is your right as a buyer to know exactly what you are paying for. You might also request some recent photos of the home taken during the spring or summer, as well as a seller’s home warranty that protects you against any defects that show up once the decorations are boxed and the snow has melted away.

Don’t allow tidings of comfort and joy to cloud your judgment.

This is sound advice any time of the year, but it is particularly important to keep in mind during the Christmas holiday. Let your Realtor take the lead so you don’t end up overspending while on a Christmas buying frenzy. Remember, that is one of the many good reasons you hired her in the first place. While it is a great time of year to gauge traffic levels and community spirit in a neighbourhood, bear in mind that contagious Christmas spirit and cheerful decorations can make everything look a little better and shine a little brighter. Take a step back and try to envision the property and neighbourhood without all the trimmings and holiday bustle.

Do not hesitate to ask Santa for a new house this year if that is what you need and desire. Remember that the best gifts often arrive in unlikely packages. Maintain an open mind and keep my holiday home shopping tips in mind in searching for the next home for you and your family.

Merry Christmas!

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.

It turns out that everything your parents and teachers taught you when you were very young is true. Among other things, lying is bad and you need to speak up and ask if you want something. It was true in kindergarten and it still holds true today. Whether you are buying or selling a home, open and honest communication with your Realtor and between the parties is a key ingredient to ensuring a smooth transaction.

If you are a buyer, from the first discussion with your Realtor, be sure to communicate exactly what your wants and needs are. Don’t assume that he or she understands what you mean or is thinking the same way as you. Everyone has their own unique set of circumstances and expectations and your Realtor can best serve your needs if properly armed with information. Try to paint a detailed picture of the home and lifestyle you are seeking. Your Realtor’s job is to help turn that vision into reality.   Good communication must, of course, work both ways. A good Realtor must have the ability and willingness to speak frankly and advise you if your dreams are out of touch with your budget.

If you are preparing to list a property for sale, start by assembling all the information you have on the property, including ownership and mortgage documents, as well as maintenance and repair records. If there are repair or maintenance items that you do not intend to deal with before listing the property, have a discussion with your agent on the history of the problem. When it comes to buying and selling property, nobody likes surprises. It is much better to tackle and disclose issues up front and avoid further price negotiating down the road. Today’s homebuyers are very sophisticated and knowledgeable and the vast majority will arrange for a home inspection.

If you are selling a condominium, make sure everyone involved is aware of any pending assessments, monthly fee increases or legal issues impacting the homeowner’s association. Once an offer is accepted and a contract is signed, the buyer’s attorney will dig into these issues and unearth the facts. Again, it is far better to disclose everything up front and negotiate from a non-defensive position.

Honest and open communication among everyone involved in a real estate transaction will help ensure a positive outcome for all. Remember what your parents taught you – if you want something, ask for it, and always tell the truth!

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.

We all love Thanksgiving, spending time with family and loved ones, eating till our bellies are full and simply creating great new memories. But as much as we love the holiday, it can be stressful especially if it’s your turn to host. From making a list to preparing for picky-eaters to making sure you leave enough time to defrost the turkey…here are some stress-free holiday tips that will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the day.

Plan Ahead

A few days before the big day, make sure you have everything you need from ingredients to utensils and all the other often missed necessities like paper goods, beverages and ice so you don’t have to make a mad dash to the grocery store.

Start Defrosting That Bird- NOW!

Don’t stress about that turkey. If it’s frozen, you may need to let it defrost for a couple of days so it’s ready to go. The earlier you leave that bird out the better, so even consider leaving it in the fridge to slowly defrost the week prior.

Have Guests Help Themselves

Serving buffet style is a great way to not have to deal with picky eaters or those with allergies. Setting up a buffet and drink station will free you up to mingle with guests and allow you to enjoy yourself too, at least until it’s time to clear.

Deal With Picky Eaters

These days, everyone seems to have some sort of dietary restriction, but don’t stress out about leaving anyone out. Ask your invited guests well in advance if they have any requests so you can make sure there is something for everyone on the menu.

Prepare For Little Ones

It’s great to have the whole family together, but having little ones at the “adult” table can sometimes be stressful. Be prepared with kid-friendly activities like a paper placemat and crayons to keep them entertained and have toys and games available throughout the evening to entertain them.

Overall, Thanksgiving Day is a time to enjoy and spend with family. So don’t stress if the turkey is a bit dry or your pumpkin pie too moist. Live in the moment and enjoy it.

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.

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.

This is the time of year when many people start to think about moving. It’s a time for new beginnings, fresh starts, and setting out to accomplish your next big goal. Do you picture yourself in a new home in 2015? Here are three great reasons why next year might be the right time for you to make a move.

Is your current home meeting your needs?

Sometimes a place is perfect for a little while, but than your needs and lifestyle change. Maybe you’ve transferred to a new job a little farther away. Perhaps the kids are moving on to a new school and you aren’t sure about the one in your area. Maybe it’s something as simple as wanting a larger kitchen or more room to entertain. There are certain things you just can’t change about a home, which means it’s a good time to look for a new one.

Will making a move offer additional benefits?

Sometimes selling your home and choosing a new place to live allows you to accomplish other goals or enhances your life in different ways. Is it time to downsize and capitalize on the equity you have built over the years? What about purchasing a property that has room for an income suite so you can become mortgage-free faster? If you feel like your current home is holding you back in one way or another, it’s a great idea to explore your options.

Is it time for that next step?
Buying a new home is usually just one part of a larger plan. If you ask most people what they envision for themselves in the next five years, many of them will describe their perfect home among their other personal, financial and professional goals. Accomplishing your goals starts with a plan, and there is no better time than the present to set that plan in motion.

Here’s to all the best for you and your family in 2015 – wherever you may find yourself 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.

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia.org & Purpletwinkie

It will soon be Valentine’s Day, and I want to send all of you all the love in the world! These are exciting days for Calgary real estate. Calgary is a place full of culture, beautiful scenery, and exciting nightlife. I have been a Calgary real estate agent for 15 years because I fell in love with the area many years ago.

If you are considering buying a home in the Calgary area, I’d love for you to know about some of my favorite restaurants in the area that will surely be filled with couples on Valentine’s Day.

I prefer to support local restaurants as I find the food is usually exceptional and the service excellent versus the major chains, and am happy to recommend the following:

The Himalayan

The Himalayan over on 17th Avenue SW has excellent Nepalese food and is a favorite of the locals in the area. If you enjoy Indian or Asian dishes, check out the Himalayan on your next visit to the area.

Spiros

If you are not a fan of Nepalese food, you can head over to Spiros, an authentic Greek restaurant where you can order pulled lamb pizza, among many other traditional dishes. Not interested in trying pulled lamb? Spiros has plenty of basic dishes for the less adventurous eater.

La Chaumiere Restaurant

Ranked #46 of 2,824 restaurants in Calgary, La Chaumiere is a great place for fine French cuisine.

If you are looking into Calgary real estate, I can give you the inside scoop on this fun neighborhood full of diverse places to eat and interesting nightlife. I enjoy this area because there is always something to do here, places to see and nature to enjoy. I know that if you come and check out Calgary real estate, you will fall in love with it just like I did 15 years ago.

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.