Allison James

As the summer of 2015 comes to a close, the Calgary real estate market reflects the uncertainty of the area’s economy, but the energy industry’s problems have yet to make a significant impact on property values in and around Calgary.  The latest statistics show that while prices are no longer climbing in many neighbourhoods, they are not dropping either.  Overall, the Calgary market remains fairly well-balanced with neither buyers nor sellers wielding a clear advantage.

At the start of the year, some experts were predicting major real estate value drops in Calgary in response to plunging gas and oil prices and energy industry layoffs, but that has not happened to date.  The latest statistics released by the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) on September 1, 2015 indicate that August’s benchmark price for all residential (detached, attached and apartment) properties in Calgary was $456,300 – nearly identical to the benchmark price of $456,700 posted in August of 2014.  These stable overall market numbers do not extend to the apartment benchmark – $294,100. Calgary’s apartment sector has experienced a slight 1.44% decline in benchmark value during the same 12 month time period.

Any examination of the state of the Calgary real estate market should make note of the fact that market conditions vary considerably throughout Calgary’s diverse collection of neighbourhoods. While the overall trend is toward stability in pricing, some areas of the city have seen diminution in value while others are still seeing multiple offers on highly desirable properties in the right location.  The recreational property market centered in the mountain and lake regions immediately surrounding the city remains strong. American buyers, buoyed by a strengthening U.S. economy, are once again looking to purchase second homes in Alberta and Calgarians are looking to vacation closer to home in view of the current U.S. exchange rates.

The Calgary real estate market will undoubtedly continue to respond to the general uncertainty in the current economy.  Continued or increased unemployment is bound to impact supply and demand for housing.  On the upside, however, consumer optimism remains strong.  In its Mid-year Update to its 2015 Economic Outlook & Regional Housing Forecast, CREB remarks that “Positive long-term prospects and reduced concerns about the bottom falling out in the near term could minimize the pullback in demand, keeping market conditions in relatively balanced territory and preventing further aggregate price declines.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

One of the main reasons I love living in Calgary is the fresh mountain air. It invigorates me! I feel that we have the best of all worlds in our urban settling nestled at the foot of the Rockies. My favorite pastime is to go for a long hike in the mountain air that ends with a great cup of coffee and conversation with friends. Give me these few things and I’m in heaven!

Although I love to travel and get away, I find that there is so much to do and so many great events right here in our own backyard. There is always something going on and you don’t need to leave the city in order to escape. All you need to do is get outside and join in the fun. Here are a few of my favorite springtime getaways in Calgary.

Lilac Festival

This annual festival is held at the end of May in the Beltline and Mission neighborhoods of Calgary along 4th Street. There is delicious food, music and local arts & crafts. Get there early as the festival grows every year and is now attracting over 100,000 people. If you’re lucky, the fragrant lilacs will be in full bloom.

Angel’s Cappuccino & Ice Cream Bar

This charming little gem may be my favorite getaway spot. It’s located in Edworthy Park, a wonderful urban oasis along the banks of the Bow River. The park itself is gorgeous with well-tended hiking trails and gardens. Enjoy a healthy meal at Angel’s or simply linger over a steaming cup of cappuccino while enjoying the river views. When the weather warms up, Angel’s hosts open microphone nights with comfortable and covered outdoor seating. If you’re talented, or brave enough, sign up for a slot and sing. Otherwise just sing along under the fir trees and let your troubles melt away, but not the ice cream. It’s too delicious!

Southern Alberta Music Festival

Here’s another great music festival to look forward to in late August. This one is held at Aspen Crossing in Mossleigh, less than an hour outside the city. Aspen Crossing is a unique train-themed campground featuring caboose cabins, shopping and dining. The music festival, now in its second year, features local musicians from Southern Alberta. It’s a wonderful full day of music in the sun.

After a hard day or week at work, we all need time to ourselves and a place to relax and let go of stress. In Calgary, there are hundreds of places to just breathe and enjoy, and many of them are just around the corner. You will never run out of things to do in our beautiful city by the river.

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.