Allison James

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.

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.

Photo Credit: KSI Photography

Isn’t it great to have a holiday at this time of the year? Even though Family Day has been around for a few years now, it still sneaks up on us as a pleasant surprise halfway through February. Looking for something fun to motivate you to get out of the house? Here are some of Calgary’s best events:

Eau Claire Market Free Family Fun Day – This winter carnival is perfect to keep your kids entertained. Organizers are anticipating a huge turnout this year. You can expect to find an ice carving demonstration, live music and games for kids of all ages. The festivities will take place on February 16th from 11am until 3pm.

Dinosaurs in Motion – This larger-than-life exhibit makes its Canadian debut at Telus Spark from now until summertime. The display includes 14 life-size sculptures created from recycled materials. Youngsters are encouraged to be creative by drawing the dinosaurs. Also, they are urged to learn more about these great creatures from the past through the interactive demonstrations.

Penguin Walks at Calgary Zoo – The penguins are on the loose! Every day at 10am, seven of the King Penguins are let out of their enclosure and escorted by their keepers for a little stroll around the zoo. This adorable routine has become one of the zoo’s best winter attractions. King Penguins, by nature, tend to be more sedentary, but this activity has proven to improve their health and given them something special to look forward to outside the confines of their home.

Free Family Day Swimming – Why not go for a dip? Six of Calgary’s public aquatic centres are open on Family Day from 1 – 2:30 and 3 – 4:30 in the afternoon. Participating locations include Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre, Canyon Meadows Aquatic Centre, Glenmore Aquatic Centre, Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre, Shouldice Aquatic Centre, and Thornhill Aquatic & Rec Centre.

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.

The holidays are finally here. Hopefully you and your family are enjoying the season and taking some time to sit back and relax. It’s a wonderful time of year to unwind and cozy up by the fire with a great book. With another busy year behind us, there is no better reward than a few weeks of carefree relaxation to give us some time to reflect. Once we turn the page on the New Year, we will be recharged and ready to move forward with a renewed enthusiasm.

What do you think of when you look back on 2014? What are your happiest memories and proudest accomplishments? Did you achieve a goal, or surprise yourself with your own strength when you overcame a personal challenge? What are you most thankful for, and what are you looking forward to in the New Year?

New Year’s resolutions have become synonymous with failure, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth trying. Setting goals at any time of year is important for your own personal growth. Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t quite turn out the way you want them to. Falling off the wagon is better than never establishing a resolution in the first place.

None of us know what the New Year will bring, but that’s just half the fun. Who knows what kind of surprises the next twelve months have in store for us? As you close the books on 2014, and ring in the New Year on December 31^st, may you experience the joy of friends and family around you. I wish you nothing but the best in the New Year. I look forward to connecting with you all in 2015.

Happy holidays!

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.

If you are considering purchasing a condo in Calgary, you are part of a growing trend. Perhaps you are in the market for your very first home, or you are considering downsizing and curious how living in a condo might affect your lifestyle. Condo living isn’t for everyone, but it offers some unique conveniences that many home owners value. Here are four questions to ask yourself if you are considering purchasing a condo:

1. Are you looking for an affordable home in a great neighbourhood? Condos are an incredibly popular option for buyers in the Calgary market because of their affordability. Particularly in convenient downtown locations, condo dwellers are able to live nearby, even within walking distance, work and amenities that mean the most to them.

2. Do you like to come and go without worrying about the security of your home? Young professionals and downsizers love condo living because it offers them a housing option that doesn’t interfere with their lifestyle. If you enjoy locking the door, and heading to Banff for the weekend, or heading to a warmer climate for a number of months, living in a condo might be a great option for you.

3. Do you enjoy the financial security of fixed payments? Condo fees cover different things depending on the building. However, in most cases, they pay for all of the building’s exterior maintenance. This can include repairs to the balconies, cleaning the hallways, maintaining the landscaping, etc. Although condo fees will cost you a few hundred dollars per month, you should never be on the hook for replacing a roof, or buying a new furnace, like you would in a typical home.

4. Would you like to spend more time enjoying the things you love, and less time keeping up with your home? For busy professionals and retirees, maintaining a home is something they can do without. Condo living is ideal for people who want to free up their schedules for other things, like maintaining an active lifestyle and traveling.

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.