Uptown Shirley Brown's Real Estate Blog

Connect with me

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:26:15 GMT

Condos

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:26:04 GMT

Townhouses

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:25:55 GMT

Single Family Homes

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:25:45 GMT

Residential

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:25:23 GMT

Renos can be a modern-day gold rush

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 21:08:31 GMT

Due diligence is key

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 20:59:47 GMT

Move in Any time! Double Wide Manufactured Home

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 22:47:09 GMT

As housing Pricing is out of reach, Manufactured homes are alternative housing for you.

This DOUBLE WIDE Manufactured home offers you 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms located in Central Coquitlam.

This home is updated and ready to move in anytime.

Great managed park and LOCATION LOCATION. Walk to Superstore, Ikea, Bowling Alley, Movie theatres, Winners and shopping, restaurants and More.. Close distance to Skytrain.

Come see, Come Buy!

New Listing! 5 bd/4 ba Beautifully designed quality home in POCO

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 22:40:08 GMT

Welcome to Knappen Gardens.

This beautiful home has a great design and is a quality build home.

The main floor has an open concept with lots of crown moulding and trims throughout.

Beautiful custom build Cadenza & mirror in the Dining area; Kitchen has new appliances and a workable kitchen for the chef in the home.

Enter the large deck from the kitchen with a beautiful, peaceful view of our Majestic Mountains.

The living room has a custom build in on both sides of the fireplace.

Large home office and a den that is used as a wine room with cozy fireplace. Lots of upgrades in the home for you to explore.

2 bedroom Authorized suite that has been upgraded for a mortgage helper. Private yard for entertaining. Close to schools, parks & trails. Come see for yourself!

Open house Sat/Sun June 12/13 1:00-4:00pm

APPOINTMENT ONLY.

DOUBLE WIDE Manufactured home in Maillardville

Fri, 07 May 2021 14:14:10 GMT

Affordable Housing out of Reach!
Welcome to Mill Creek Village - an alternative option.
This DOUBLE WIDE Manufactured home offers you over 1400sq ft of living space with 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, family room & den.

This home is well maintained and shows well.

LOCATION LOCATION! Walk to Superstore, Ikea, shopping, Bowling Alley. Movie theatre and transportation, short distance to Skytrain.

Come see! Come Buy!

SHOWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

2 bed/2 bath Manufactured Home with the land - Cherry Brook Park!

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 23:37:00 GMT

It's on the Market Now!!

Terrific Condo Alternative (NO Elevator or underground parking) for the 55+ in Beautiful Cherry Brook Park.

This 2 bed, 2 bath Manufactured Home and you OWN THE LAND. The strata fee is only $130 a month. Affordable Housing without the high prices.

Great covered deck to relax with a beverage, workshop on the deck for your projects.

Low maintenance yard and a nice area for the gardener.

Beautiful Park with a great clubhouse in a great area that is close to HWY 99, Hospital, shopping, White Rock Beach & Golf Course.

Come See Come Buy! BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Contact me for an appointment!

Coming Soon! Own your own land! 2 Bed/2 bath Under $500,000 in White Rock!

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 18:50:58 GMT

Welcome to Cherry Brook Park!

Own a 1 level home with no stairs with the land in White Rock. Quick Possession!

This DOUBLE WIDE Manufactured Home is Bare Land Strata, is for those 55+; Strata fee only $130 a month.

This home offers you 2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a family room, large kitchen.

bonus-New furnace/Hot water tank/ roof 8 yrs old, Double Glazed windows, hobby room, closed in deck, great clubhouse.

You don't take an elevator; just park in front. Close to Hwy 99, US border, Hospital, shopping, White Rock Beach & golf Courses.

Open house BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Sat & Sun April 17 & 18 2021 1-4pm

Don't let this one get away.

Just Sold! Townhouse in Pitt Meadows, over asking price!

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 14:37:53 GMT

Just Sold‼️

Just sold! Congratulations to my clients on the sale of their home! The house sold 7% over the asking price in less than a week!! thank you for choosing me to be your Realtor.

It’s a great time to sell right now, please contact me if you are interested in selling your home!

Coming Soon!! 3 Bed / 3 Bath Townhouse in Pitt Meadows!

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 07:01:00 GMT

Coming Soon!

1480 sqft 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 bathrooms immaculate inside & out.

Very private fenced rear yard & garden patio. Just gorgeous! Bright, open plan. double garage + guest parking.

These homes are rarely available. Kids & pets are welcome!

Please contact me for more information!

NEW LISTING!! OPEN HOUSE - Pitt Meadows Townhouse

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:05:00 GMT

NEW LISTING❗❗ Open House by Appointment only

Saturday, April 3, 2021 2-4pm
Monday, April 5, 2021 2-4pm.

Make an appointment today!!

Welcome to Twin Oaks!!
Great family area and a townhouse for a growing family.
This townhouse offers you 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Private fenced backyard for the kids and the dog.
Double garage for Dad + guest parking. Kids and Pets are welcome but NO Rentals.

Just mins away from elementary & Secondary schools & walk to West Coast Express.

Don't let this one get away. Come see Come Buy.

New Listing! 4bed/4bath 5,042 sqft High Quality Custom-Built Home

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 18:15:12 GMT

"No Stress here" Welcome to this 6-year young custom-built home on an over 3-acre lot that has style and comfort.

Enter into the large foyer & to an open concept on the main that is great for gatherings (when we can do this again).

The gourmet kitchen has a large island and top of the line Thermador appliances (even the top chef would love). From the kitchen, enter the fully fenced yard with those summer BBQ's & enjoy a G&T while listening to nature and birds singing.

Upstairs has a huge master bedroom with a walk-in closet and a spa-like ensuite. One of the bdrms can be used as a nanny bdrm (bed-sitting room).

The features are endless in this custom home, from the gated entrance to the high-quality finishes, concrete in-floor heating, hot water on demand, in-ground sprinkler system, electrical transfer box, air conditioning, 1,197 sq ft shop in back with own garage & more...A home for those accustomed to the best!!

Click here for more photos!

Open House - appointment only

March 27 Sat 1-5

March 28 Sun 1-5

March 29 Mon 1-5

Contact me for a showing appointment.

Coming Soon! 4Bed/4Bath home on a 3.04 Acres Lot

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 21:29:40 GMT

Coming Soon on the Market! I am so excited about this listing.

Executive Home and Big Shop in a perfect package on 3.04 Acres lot. A quality-built home, fenced and gated, with style and comfort for all your wishes. A huge entrance hall welcomes you into an open & spacious home. Planned for daily living and entertaining friends.

A gourmet kitchen & pantry. Dining and Living rooms open onto a full-sized patio overlooking all the green space. Upstairs there is a family/flex room for many uses.

Huge Master & Deluxe Ensuite for relaxation, plus 3 more bedrooms and 2 full baths complete the 2nd floor. The 1180 Sq Ft Shop will be perfect for the car buff, hobbyist & more.

Please contact me for more information!!

for more pictures, click below

https://fb.watch/4jDvNABKZG/

Coming Soon! 3 Bedroom Townhouse in Coquitlam

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 23:15:17 GMT

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!

Welcome to Cedar Green &Great Beginnings, Location is great for commuters & is walking distance to Mundy Park, Riverview forest trails, school & shopping.

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath town house is located a very desirable area that is close to all major routes to HWY1, Lougheed Hwy or Barnet Hwy.

On the main, newer kitchen, beautiful wood floors, Living and dining area leads to a private back yard for those BBQ’s which are coming. New double glazed windows. The 2nd level boasts 2 bedrooms & full bathroom & laundry room. The upper level has a large master bedroom, full bathroom, walk-in closet + a storage room. There is also a storage room at the front of the home.

2 dogs or 2 cats allows; No rentals allowed.

Please contact me for more information and/or private showings!!

Don’t’ let this one get away!

How Much Should You Budget for Home Maintenance?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:38:03 GMT

If you own a car, you know there’s more to the cost-of-ownership than just finance payments and gas. You also need to budget for maintenance and repairs. If your car is older, those costs are going to be higher. That’s just common sense.

The same is true of your home. It’s wise to budget for anticipated repairs and maintenance. Otherwise, you might be caught by surprise when you find that your furnace stops working and needs to be replaced. That can easily be a four-figure expense.

Experts recommend that you set aside 1% of the value of your home for repairs and maintenance. For a $500,000 property, for example, that would be $5,000. That is, of course, merely a rule of thumb.

If your home is older, you may need to budget more.

Another recommended method is to budget $1 a square foot. If you have a 2,500 square foot home, that would be a budget of $2,500. Again, that number would need to be higher for older properties.

When budgeting, consider things that are getting old and will likely need to be replaced within the next three years.

Examples include roof shingles, furnace, A/C unit, deck, fence, plumbing, and windows. Depending on the size and model, a new A/C unit will cost at least $5,000.

Anticipating that expense will help you plan accordingly and avoid the shock of an unpleasant and costly surprise.

Keep in mind that budgeting $2,000 for repairs and maintenance doesn’t mean you’ll actually spend that money this year. But, if needed, the budget will be there, and that’s peace-of-mind.

Will the neighbourhood go up in value?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:33:56 GMT

When you purchase a home, you’re hoping it will continually go up in value — just like a good investment.

However, there’s something else that you want to see go up in value as well: the neighbourhood. In fact, the neighbourhood plays a key role in what the home will be worth in years to come.

If the neighbourhood goes down in terms of desirability, so will the market value of the home.

That’s why, when shopping for a new home, it’s important to get a feel for the value of the neighbourhood, and whether or not it’s on the upswing.

How do you do that? One way is to simply take a walk. Look at the properties. Are they well maintained? Is the landscaping groomed and attractive?

Those are signs of “pride of ownership” — a clear indication that owners value their homes and the neighbourhood.

Another way is to do some research. Has crime gone up in the neighbourhood?

Are there improvements planned, such as new parks?

Is the neighbourhood attracting the kind of people you want as neighbours?

How does the neighbourhood school rank?

Some of this information may be difficult to get on your own.

A good REALTOR® can help you.

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

“Closing Day” Terminology You Need To Know

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:30:09 GMT

Closing day is an exciting time. After all, you’re moving into your new home! However, it can be stressful as well.

The last thing you need is to be confronted with something you don’t understand. So here is a quick list of common “closing day” terms.

Disbursements. This is the allocation of funds to the appropriate parties, such as the seller. Your lawyer will take care of this for you.
Possession. This is the moment on closing day when you are legally able to take possession of your new home. It’s usually when your REALTOR® or lawyer hands you the keys.
Title. This is a legal document that identifies the property and its owner.
Closing costs. These are expenses, excluding the selling cost of the property, that are due on closing day, such as legal fees, reimbursement for pre-paid utilities, utility deposits, insurance, and taxes.
Closing adjustments. These are expenses pre-paid by the seller that need to be reimbursed on closing.

There may be other terms you come across on closing day as well. Don’t worry, a good REALTOR® can help make the day go smoothly for you and your family.

Looking for a good REALTOR®?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Upgrades That Hold Their Value

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:28:05 GMT

Do you have a renovation project in mind – and wonder how much value it will add to your home?

Remodeling Magazine recently did a study of renovation projects, comparing costs to added value. Here are some of the results:

Replacing a main entry door has a return on investment of over 95%. After all, the entrance to a home is one of the first things a prospective buyer notices.

Adding a new deck also adds a lot of value. Depending on the materials used, you can expect to get back three-quarters of the money invested.

Another high-payback project is the garage door. This once again demonstrates the importance of a home’s “curb appeal.”

If you’re tackling a big project, such as a basement renovation, you’ll be glad to know that, according to the study, a project like this adds a lot of value.

Finally, minor improvements to bathrooms and kitchens – such as adding new countertops or cupboards, can also be good investments that mostly pay back when you sell your home.

Of course, these figures are averages and can vary widely depending on location, type of property, and other factors.

Need help determining how a particular home improvement might impact the selling price?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Easy-to Miss Home Security Tips for Your Vacation

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:25:58 GMT

If you’re relaxing on a Caribbean beach, or enjoying a bus tour through historic Paris, the last thing you want to worry about is your home.

Most people know the basics of keeping a home secure while away. Here are some additional tips that are easy to miss:

Tell your kids not to boast about your fabulous vacation plans, especially on social media. The fewer who know that the house will be empty, the better.
Ask a neighbour to pick up any mail and flyers dropped at your doorstep. But don’t rely on that alone. Also call the newspaper and post office to temporarily halt delivery.
You can buy timers to automatically turn lights on and off. However, most will stop working if the power goes out and restart with the incorrect time when the power comes back on. That’s why you should keep at least a couple of lights turned on continuously, and not connected to timers.
If you’re leaving in the evening, or before dawn, don’t forget to open the blinds. Closed blinds during the day are a dead giveaway that the owners are away.

Finally, experts recommend creating a home security checklist, so you don’t forget anything. That will give you peace-of-mind.

How to Help Sell Your Home Quickly

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:23:58 GMT

Usually when you list your home, you would prefer to sell it quickly. It’s like being the first one served at a crowded ice cream parlour. It’s satisfying.

However, sometimes there’s more to it than that. There may be a truly urgent reason why you need to find a buyer for your property as soon as possible, such as a sudden job relocation.

If that’s the case, it’s important to explain your situation to your REALTOR®, who will be able to put together an action plan for selling your home quickly and for the best price possible.

During that conversation, ask what you can do to help the process along. For example, you may be able to:

Spread the word to your friends and other connections on Facebook.
Canvass your neighbours and tell them about your listing.
Stage your home so that it’s more attractive to prospective buyers.

When it comes to price, be prepared to be flexible. That doesn’t mean you must settle for a price far below your home’s market value. However, you do need to be prepared to accept a good offer rather than try to hold out for a great one.

Also be open to as many viewings and open houses as possible. Having many prospective buyers come through your home within a short period of time may be a little inconvenient, but the payoff might be an offer!

Finally, work with your REALTOR®. A good REALTOR® will know the local market well and have many ideas for selling your property fast.

Looking for a good REALTOR® like that?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Avoiding moisture problems in the home

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:20:23 GMT

There are many hidden sources of moisture in your home that can lead to serious problems, such as mould. To keep moisture levels in check, consider these tips:

Bathrooms are an obvious source of moisture build-up. Contractor and TV personality Mike Holmes recommends keeping the fan going for at least a half hour after a shower.
Check regularly for water infiltration around window and door sills, as well as other intakes into the home, such as dryer vents and cable wiring.
Determine the humidity level in your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, it should be 30-60%. (Keep in mind that humidity may vary greatly from room to room.)
Regularly inspect caulking around sinks, tubs and showers. Even a tiny break can cause water to leak gradually into the wall or floor, causing damage you may not notice for months.
Clean up wet spills as soon as possible. On hardwood floors especially, water can seep through and become trapped.
Repair leaking faucets, toilets and pipes immediately. A drip can quickly become a shower.

Being mindful of moisture today can help you avoid potentially high repair bills later on.

How Much of a New Home Can You Afford?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:18:47 GMT

If you’re thinking of shopping for a new home, one of the first considerations is price range. You want to know what you can reasonably afford.

How do you figure that out?

First of all, you need to determine the initial out-of-pocket costs you will need to cover. There are often more costs associated with purchasing a home than its actual price.

You need to take into account such additional expenses as moving costs, legal fees, and a home inspection, not to mention the costs of prepping your current property for sale.

Experts say you should budget 5-10% above the purchase price for these items. So if you can afford to spend $470K on a new home, you should be shopping in the $425-445K range.

Another factor to consider are the potential proceeds from the sale of your current home. Your REALTOR® can help you determine how much your property will likely sell for in today’s market.

Any existing mortgage will need to be subtracted from that amount to determine how much cash will be left.

Of course, you should speak to a mortgage broker or lender who can compute how much of a mortgage you qualify for. Remember, qualifying for a big mortgage doesn’t necessarily mean you should have one. You also need to consider your personal finances and desired lifestyle – and whether or not having a large mortgage is a good idea for you.

Once you have gathered all of your information, you can add any potential sale proceeds to the amount of mortgage you qualify for, add other sources of cash available for this purpose and subtract 5-10% for initial expenses, and you’ll have an idea of the price range you should be considering.

Finally, it’s important to take the time to decide what kind of home you want. Do you want a large backyard with trees? A quiet, family-oriented neighbourhood? Four bedrooms and a finished basement?

Once you decide what you want most in a new home, it becomes much easier to find one that’s in your price range.

Need help deciding how much you can afford when shopping for a new home?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Should You “High Ball” Your Listing Price?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:13:12 GMT

One of the most important decisions you make when selling your home is setting the listing price. That can be tricky. After all, if you price your property too low, you leave money on the table — perhaps thousands of dollars.

On the other hand, if you price your home too high, many buyers won’t even bother to see it, believing it is too expensive.

Even with that reality, there are some sellers who contemplate setting a high listing price in the hopes of a windfall. They want some unsuspecting buyer to fall in love with the home and buy it — even though it’s overpriced.

That rarely, if ever, happens.

Instead, the listing often languishes on the market because its listing price is conspicuously much higher than its market value.

Think about it. If two similar homes, side-by-side, are for sale, and one is priced $40,000 higher than the other, wouldn’t you wonder what was going on?

That’s exactly what the market thinks. “Why is that home priced so high?”

Of course, many buyers, who might otherwise be interested in the property, won’t even consider seeing it, simply because it’s outside their price range.

It gets worse. When an overpriced home sits on the market with no offers for several weeks, the price will often need to be adjusted down. That helps the situation a little. However, you’ve lost the excitement created by a “new listing.”

Yours is now an old listing struggling to get attention.

There’s a better way...

Setting your list price at or near the market value is much more likely to generate interest from qualified buyers and maximize how much you make on your home.

That market value may even be higher than you think! Interested in finding out how much?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Simple Ways to Reduce Your Monthly Utility Costs

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:08:10 GMT

Many homeowners think there’s not much they can do about telephone, heating, water and other utility expenses. Sure, you may grumble about a high heating bill one month, but what can you do about it?

Turns out, you can do plenty. There are several ways to reduce monthly utility costs that can save you tens or even hundreds of dollars. For example:

Shop around for a better phone plan. Then contact your phone company. They might match the rates.
Turn down the thermostat on your water heater. You likely don’t need tap water to be that hot.
Clean the screen on your outside air conditioning unit regularly. (Gently with the water hose.) Dirt and leaves can build up on it, reducing the unit’s efficiency.
Leverage the sun. Open curtains in the winter to gain heat. Block direct sunlight in summer to keep the cool air inside.
Scrutinize your bill. There may be extras you’re paying for that you don’t need.
Play with the thermostat. Experiment with setting the temperature a couple of degrees lower. You might not notice any difference.

It’s worth paying attention to your utility costs. Just a few smart moves can save you some serious money.

Making Your Home Critter Proof

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:05:30 GMT

You may love animals, but with the exception of your family pets, you don’t want them in your home. Here are some tips for keeping the wildlife around your property where it belongs: outside.

Don’t place bird feeders too close to your windows. Doing so may cause birds to associate a window with food and therefore try to peck their way inside.
Make sure window screens are secure. If you can push a screen loose with your hand, so can a bird or other animal.
Check screens on dryer vents and chimneys. If they are damaged, fix or replace them.
To determine how animals are entering your home, stuff wadded paper in the suspected entry point. If the paper is disturbed the next day, you’ll know where they got in.
Never leave food outside, unattended. After a barbeque, for example, take all remaining food inside.

If you do find an animal in your home, never try to pick it up. It may bite or have rabies. Instead, call a professional.

When Is the Right Time to Talk to a REALTOR®?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 18:01:15 GMT

When would you talk to a car salesperson? Probably only once you’re ready to buy a new car. You would do some initial research (perhaps on the internet), get an idea of what you want, and then go to the dealership to meet a salesperson, test drive the car and make the purchase.

Although that approach may work when you’re buying a car, it’s not the best approach when it comes to real estate.

You see, successfully buying or selling a home requires a lot of planning and legwork.

You want the process to go smoothly, the right decisions to be made, and the best possible deal to be negotiated.

After all, this is the purchase and/or sale of your home!

So, the best time to talk to a REALTOR® is as early in the process as possible.

In fact, even if you’re just thinking of buying or selling — and simply want to explore the possibility of making a move sometime this year — you should have a conversation with a good REALTOR®.

A REALTOR® will answer your questions, provide you with the information and insights you need, help you avoid costly mistakes, and make sure you’re heading in the right direction.

When you are ready to buy or sell, having worked with a REALTOR® early in the process will help ensure you get what you want.

So talk to a good REALTOR® when:

• You have a question about the local market.

• You want to know what your home might sell for today.

• You’re interested in checking out homes currently available on the market. • You’re in the midst of deciding whether or not to make a move.

• You’ve decided to buy or sell.

Getting a good REALTOR® on your side early in the game makes everything a lot easier for you.

Looking for a good REALTOR®?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Do You Have “Recalled” Products in Your Home?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:57:21 GMT

You’ve no doubt noticed the occasional news report about a product being recalled for safety reasons.

For example, a car model with a brake problem, or a children’s toy that, under some circumstances, may cause injury.

You may not know that these news reports are merely the tip of the iceberg.

For each product recall you hear about in the media, there are dozens that get little, if any, publicity.

That means there may be products in your home that have been recalled — and you don’t even know about it. It’s a scary thought.

How do you find out about recalled products that may affect you? Here are two tips.

Alwayscompletetheregistrationthatcomeswithmanyproducts. This is typically done by mailing in a registration card or filling out an online form. When you register, you’ll be alerted by the manufacturer if the product is recalled for any reason.
BothCanadaandtheUnitedStateshaveagenciesthatlistrecalled products on their websites. In Canada it’s the Healthy Canadians website at www.healthycanadians.gc.ca. In the United States it’s the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.CPSP.gov. It’s a good habit to check these sites every season.

If you discover that a product in your home has been recalled, contact the manufacturer immediately. Never assume that the reason for the recall won’t apply to you.

What Buyers Don’t Want to See in Your Backyard

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:54:45 GMT

When you put your home up for sale, you want it to look its best to potential buyers. That’s why you clean, tidy and de-clutter every room.

Some sellers, however, miss the backyard. You need to pay just as much attention to that space as you do to the interior of your home.

The backyard is as important a living space as the family room. To some buyers, even more.

Buyers want to see an attractive backyard space, with the grass cut and the hedges trimmed. The more neat and tidy you can make it, the better.

Be sure to sweep walkways and wipe down patio furniture.

Also, watch out for the following things that buyers do not want to see:

Bags of garage and other waste.
Doggie do-do. (Be sure to stoop and scoop!)
Rakes and other tools piled in the corner.
Cluttered and disorganized storage sheds, pool huts and other

backyard structures.
Weeds in the flower beds.
Items stored underneath the deck.
Hoses not stowed neatly.
Electrical outlets and water faucets that don’t work.

These are not difficult issues to fix. Doing so will positively impact the impression the buyer gets of your backyard.

Do you have a backyard that shows particularly well in the summer? Here’s a tip: Take pictures. Those photos will help buyers be able to appreciate how it looks should you list your home in the winter.

Want more tips on making your home show well so that it sells fast?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

Concerned about Condensation on Windows?

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:50:09 GMT

If you see a haze of condensation on your window, should you be concerned? Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on a number of factors.

First of all, an occasional build-up of condensation is normal and often the result of fluctuating humidity in the home. Usually, it’s nothing to worry about. If you’re using a humidifier, try adjusting the levels. If the humidity is being generated naturally, try placing a dehumidifier nearby. Also, remove any plants and firewood from the area, as they can release a surprising volume of moisture into the air.

Do you see moisture in between the panes of glass that make up the window? If so, that means the seal has failed and moisture has crept in. Double and triple pane windows often contain a gas (argon, for example) that boosts the insulating qualities of the window. When the seal fails, the gas disappears, making the glass colder and often allowing condensation to creep in. Eventually, you’ll want to get it replaced.

If you see moisture build-up anywhere on the frame of the window, particularly at the joints, that could be a sign of water leaking through. That’s an issue you should get checked out immediately by a window contractor.

How to Deal with a Low-Ball Offer

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:47:08 GMT

If you take care to price your home correctly — that is, at a price that is in line with what similar properties in the area have sold for recently — then you have a good chance of selling it at or near your asking price.

That doesn’t mean you won’t get a low-ball offer. You might. So what do you do when that happens?

First, understand that the buyer may not necessarily be trying to steal away your home at a bargain-basement price. He might simply be mistaken about its true market value. Of course, he might also be coming in at a low price in the hopes he’ll get lucky.

You will never actually know the buyer’s motives. So it would be a mistake to get angry or dismiss the offer out-of-hand. That low-ball offer might end up being the beginning of a negotiation that results in you selling your home at a good price.

Your first step is to work with your REALTOR® to determine:

How serious the buyer is.
How qualified the buyer is. (For example, does he have a pre-

approved mortgage?)
How amenable the buyer is to a counter-offer that reflects the true

market value of your home.
What that counter-offer should be.

This isn’t an easy process. It takes knowledge and experience to get it right. That’s why working with a good REALTOR® is essential.

Looking for a REALTOR® who is an expert at this stuff?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

How to quickly improve indoor air quality

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:42:09 GMT

There are many reasons why the air quality in your home may not be at its best. A faulty furnace or an aged carpet are just two potential culprits.

Until you get those issues addressed, how do you make your indoor air healthier — today?

Here are some ideas:

Check the furnace filter. This is one of the most overlooked maintenance items in the home. Any furnace repair person can tell you stories about filters they’ve seen caked in dust. Make sure those aren’t yours. Air passes through those filters before circulating throughout your home. Replacing a filter takes less than five minutes.
Clean the drains. Drains are a surprisingly common source of odour in the home. Most people only clean them when they’re clogged, but they should be flushed thoroughly with a good-quality cleaner at least once a season.
Turn on the bathroom fan. Not only do bathroom fans remove odour, they also reduce moisture build-up. About 50% of air pollutants originate from some type of moisture; mould being the worst. Professionals recommend you keep the bathroom fan on for at least 30 minutes after a shower.
Clean your doormat. Even if your doormat doesn’t smell, it can be a source of air pollutants. When people wipe their shoes, they transfer pesticides and other outside ground pollutants from their shoes to your mat.

Of course, you can always open a window. That’s the most popular way to freshen the air, and it works.

Discovering that a home you like has “issues”

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:37:50 GMT

Say you’re viewing a home and are impressed with how it looks. The walls are freshly painted. Everything seems bright and new. You’re considering making an offer.

Then, while standing on a mat in the kitchen, you hear a squeak below your feet. You lift the mat and see that some tiles are broken. Obviously the mat was there to, literally, cover up that defect.

A few broken tiles are not a big deal. But now you’re thinking, “What else might be wrong with this house?”

There’s no reason to worry that every home will have maintenance issues hidden from view. However, it’s smart to do your due diligence to ensure the home you’re considering is truly as good as it looks.

One way is to have a professional home inspector check out the property as a condition of your purchase offer. He or she will inspect the home from top to bottom, inside and out, and point out any issues you should address.

It’s also smart to ask questions. Find out the age of certain features, such as the roof, furnace, and appliances. Ask about any recent renovations, and determine whether they were done by a professional or by the homeowner.

Most importantly, work with a good REALTOR® who can provide you with information on the property that you would have difficulty getting on your own.

Your REALTOR® has a stake in making sure you buy a home with your eyes wide open — knowing all the potential maintenance issues you’re likely to encounter.

Want to talk to a good REALTOR®?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

(604) 671-1060

The Latest in Kitchen Fire Prevention. What You Need to Know.

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 17:32:52 GMT

More fires start in the kitchen than in any other room. Those fires can be expensive; since even a minor incident, with no injuries, can result in significant damage. That’s why it’s important to keep up with the latest in fire prevention.

The most recent research tells us:

Never leave cooking food unattended. Doing so is the number one cause of kitchen fires.
Make sure cooking appliances, especially deep fryers, are safety certified by the appropriate government agency.
When using oil in a frying pan, always heat slowly at no more than a medium heat setting.
Always turn off stove burners and other cooking appliances immediately after cooking.
Never attempt to put out a grease fire with water. Use baking soda or a fire extinguisher.
Never remove or cover up a smoke detector due to nuisance alarms. The one alarm that isn’t a nuisance may save your life.

Finally, experts say that if you can’t put out a fire immediately, get everyone out of the home and call emergency services.

How the Wrong Pricing Strategy Can Cost You Thousands

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 02:26:14 GMT

As you’re probably aware, the list price you set for your property has an impact on how quickly it sells — and how much you earn on the sale.

What you may not realize is just how significant an impact it has. Consider the following examples.

Example 1:

You price your property well above its current market value. As a result, many buyers don’t bother to see it because it’s outside of their price range. Those who do see it are confused by the high price tag, (and may even be suspicious.) They may wonder, “What’s going on?”

In this scenario, the home will likely languish on the market for weeks or even months. You might even have to lower the price dramatically to re- ignite interest.

Example 2:

You price your property just a couple of percentage points lower than what is necessary to gain the interest of qualified buyers. That might not seem like much of a problem. How much can a couple of percentage points matter?

Those points matter a lot.

On a $400,000 property, pricing your home just 2% lower than necessary could cost you $8,000 on the sale. That’s a serious amount of money!

So, as you can see, pricing your home right is serious business. Fortunately, a good REALTOR® knows how to set the right price.

Looking for a good REALTOR®?

Call today.

Shirley Brown

604-674-0047

Keeping Houseplants Alive when You’re Away

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 22:43:50 GMT

When you’re out-of-town, there are plenty of kennels and other facilities that will mind your dog or cat. In fact, the pet-care business is booming! However, the same options aren’t available for your houseplants. So what do you do?

First, keep in mind that plants can go for several days or even a couple of weeks without water. This frequently happens in their natural habitats. So if you’re gone for just a few days, your flora will probably be fine.

Flowering plants tend to need the most water. Give them an extra dose just before you leave. Also, make sure they are in indirect, rather than direct sunlight. That will help them conserve water.

If you’re going to be away for a week or more, consider one of the several products on the market that water plants automatically. Many of these allow you to adjust how much water each plant gets — and when.

You’ll find plenty of do-it-yourself instructions for making your own automatic waterer on the internet, from plastic cups with tiny holes in the bottom to upside-down bottles with wicks. These might work, but you’ll want to test them first.

Of course, your best option might be to have a friend or trusted neighbour take care of the plants for you. Just be sure to give them clear instructions.

Your houseplants will thank you.

What Home Inspectors See that You Can’t

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 22:37:10 GMT

When you make an offer on a home, it’s a smart idea to have a professional home inspector check it out from top to bottom. This inspection will ensure that the property doesn’t have any unexpected “issues”. After all, you don’t want to buy a home only to discover that the roof needs to be replaced, immediately, for thousands of dollars.

That being said, you might question whether you really need to invest the few hundred dollars it costs for a professional home inspection. “The home we want to buy looks like it’s in very good shape,” you might be thinking. “I can’t see anything wrong with it.”

However, a professional home inspector can see things you can’t. When you view a property that’s on the market, you might be able to notice obvious issues, like a crack in the foundation or a dripping faucet. If you’re experienced with home maintenance, you might even notice roofing tiles that look like they’re overdue for replacement.

But you won’t pick up all the issues a home inspector can.

A home inspector will, for example, use a special device to check for moisture build-up in the washrooms – which can be an indication of mould. He or she will also inspect wiring to make sure everything is safe and compliant with the building code.

That’s not all.

Like a determined detective, a home inspector will investigate the property’s structure, electrical and plumbing systems, insulation, and other components — and then report the findings to you.

In the end, a professional home inspection gives you peace-of-mind and protects your investment. So getting one is highly recommended — even for recently built homes.

A good REALTOR® can recommend a trusted home inspector for you.

Looking for more ideas on making smart decisions when buying a home?

Call today!

Shirley Brown 604-671-1060

The “3 Up” Strategy for Selling Your Home Quickly

Thu, 09 Jul 2015 20:04:42 GMT

The “3 Up” Strategy for Selling Your Home Quickly

There are many reasons why you may need to sell your home quickly: a sudden job relocation; a change in family situation; or perhaps an opportunity to purchase a new home that you just can’t pass up.

Whatever the reason, this strategy will help when you need to sell fast. It’s called the “3 Up” strategy.

Fix it up.
Clean it up.
Spruce it up.

First, you need to fix it up. That simply means getting things repaired around your property, such as a broken floor tile in the kitchen or a sticking patio door that’s difficult to open and close. Maintenance issues like these distract buyers from the appealing qualities of your home. Fortunately, repairs can usually be done quickly.

Second, clean it up. Obviously, when your home is clean and tidy it’s going to look its best. You also want to eliminate as much clutter as possible. You don’t need to make every room look like a magazine cover — but that’s a good attitude to have when prepping your home for a quick sale!

Finally, spruce it up. That means making any quick improvements that are going to make your home even more appealing. It might mean replacing the kitchen counters or giving the main rooms a fresh coat of paint.

Of course, the number one strategy for getting that SOLD sign on your front yard is to select a great REALTOR®.

Looking for a great REALTOR®? Call today.

Should You Sell First and Buy Later? Or Vice-Versa?

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 19:11:29 GMT

Should You Sell First and Buy Later? Or Vice-Versa?

When you’re thinking of selling your home and buying another, you face the inevitable question: Should I list my property first or buy my new home first?

Let’s take a look at both options.

If you attempt to buy a property before listing your home, you run into a couple of challenges.

First, sellers may not take you seriously as a potential buyer. After all, you haven’t put your own home up for sale. As far as they’re concerned, you might merely be testing the market.

Second, your property might not sell as quickly as you thought it would. If there is an early closing date on the home you purchased, you might end up owning, and paying a mortgage on both properties, at least until your home sells.

If, on the other hand, you list your property before buying a new home, sellers will know you’re serious. That puts you in a competitive position in the event of multiple offers.

Also, if your home sells quickly, you’ll have the peace-of-mind of knowing exactly how much of a new home you can afford. You’ll be able to shop with confidence.

Of course, like the first option, there is a chance that the closing dates won’t match and you’ll end up owning two properties for a period of time. However, solutions such as bridge financing are available to help.

So, there is no perfect answer. A lot depends on the state of the local market.

Looking for a good REALTOR® who can help you decide which is the best move for you? Call today. 604-671-1060

Removing Stains From Rugs And Carpeting

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 00:10:00 GMT

Something has just spilled on your favorite rug or carpet. There's a stain forming. You're worried. Will you be able to remove it? Will the stain set and stay forever?

Luckily, there's a good chance you can completely lift just about any kind of stain – if you follow a few guidelines.

The first rule of stain removal is: act fast. The fresher the stain, the easier it is to lift. So when you notice a stain of any kind, start to work on it right away. Don't wait.

Begin by trying to dry blot the stain. Avoid the temptation of using a wet cloth or detergent, at least at this stage of the game. Blot the stain gently with a clean, dry cloth or absorbent paper towel. Be patient. It may take several minutes before you see any results.

If dry blotting doesn't completely lift the stain, mix up a combination of one glass of water with one teaspoon of lemon juice. Again, take a clean cloth or paper towel, wet it with the water/lemon mixture, and gently blot the area (test on an inconspicuous area first). Wait five minutes, then try dry blotting again.

You may have to repeat the above process a few times.

Using a vacuum cleaner directly over the affected area can also help lift more of the stain.

If, after all your efforts, some of the stain is still there, place a couple of sheets of paper towel over the stain, with a few books on top to maintain pressure. Leave those there for 24 hours. Check every hour or so. If you see stain on the paper towels, you know it's working.

If all else fails, consider calling in a professional cleaner. They know all the tricks and can often perform a miracle for you!

How Much Can You Afford?

Sun, 07 Jun 2015 00:02:00 GMT

Why is it so important to know how much you can afford to spend on a home?

Two reasons.

First, you don't want to buy a property and then find out, only after you’ve moved in, that you can't financially maintain it. That would mean having to resell it under stressful conditions.

Second, you don't want to settle for a property that's less than ideal, when you really could have afforded the "dream home" you've always wanted.

So how do you figure out how much you can afford to pay for your next home?

The first step is to talk to a good REALTOR®. I will help you gain a clearer understanding of how much your current home will likely sell for in today's market. That amount, together with other financial resources you might have (such as savings), will determine your down payment.

The next thing you’ll need to figure out is your mortgage. I can help you find a lender who will take a variety of factors into account – income, credit rating, debts, expected down payment, etc. – to calculate the maximum amount of mortgage for which you qualify.

Say, through the proceeds of the sale of your home combined with your savings, your expected down payment is $90,000. If the lender authorizes a mortgage of $270,000, then you can afford a $360,000 home.

Of course, that doesn't mean you'll need to spend that much. In fact, a home that meets your needs in terms of property type, features, and neighbourhood, may in fact cost you less.

One thing is for sure. A good REALTOR® can work with whatever amount you can afford and show you homes on the market that most closely meet your needs.

Looking for a good REALTOR®? Call me today.

Simplifying Your Home Life

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 00:07:00 GMT

Let's face it. Life can get complicated, complex and stressful very easily. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to simplify your life, especially at home. Here are some tips from the experts:

Don't be ruled by the TV guide. Instead, select what you want to see and then record those shows. That way, you can watch them anytime.
Prepare some meals in advance that can simply be heated up as needed. That reduces a lot of "after-work, gotta-get-dinner-ready" stress.
Create a weekly dinner menu. It takes some time to prepare, but it allows you to shop effectively, and greatly reduces the stress of figuring out what to cook each day.
Don't accumulate stuff you don't want or need. Give those things away.
Simplify your cleaning by dividing tasks into ten minute chunks (such as vacuuming the living room.) Then fit those tasks in here and there whenever you have ten minutes.
To avoid clutter, adopt the "touch it once" rule, which simply means putting things where they belong right away.
Think of the home-related chore you hate doing most. Can you outsource that to a local company, or a neighbour looking for some work?
Limit the time you and others in your family spend checking emails and text messages. Consider having an hour or two each evening that's "no screen" time.
Develop healthy routines, such as evening walks and family board game night.

These are just a few ideas. If you want to simplify your home life, you can probably brainstorm several other strategies and habits you can try. The idea is to make your home an enjoyable place to be – for you and your family.

What to take with you when home shopping

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 00:09:00 GMT

You will want to make the process of shopping for a home as productive and enjoyable as possible. After all, you'll be on a quest to find your next dream home. That's why it's important to take the right things with you:

A digital camera, so you can take pictures of the features you like in the properties you see.
A notepad, so you can take notes.
Measurements of your largest pieces of furniture, so you can confirm they'll fit in the rooms of properties you like.
A measuring tape.
Some healthy snacks and beverages, (especially important if you're taking the kids along).
A map of the area, so you can check out local parks and other neighbourhood features.
Clear driving directions to each of the properties you want to see.

One of the best ways to shop for a home, and actually enjoy the experience, is to work with a great REALTOR®.

Selecting the Right Decorator

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

You might have hired a painter, plumber, or renovator several times during your history of home ownership. But how many times have you hired a decorator?

For many homeowners, hiring a decorator is a first time experience. That’s what makes knowing how to choose the right one so challenging.

Here's a tip: Clip photos from magazines of rooms that match the "look and style" you want. Pay particular attention to desired colours, decor, accents, furnishings, and themes.

Then, when meeting with a prospective decorator, see if there's anything in his or her portfolio that matches your clippings. If there is, then you’ll have a good indication that he or she can pull off the look you want.

When is the best time to sell your home?

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 00:04:00 GMT

If you've been thinking about selling your home, you might be waiting until the "market is right". After all, if the local market suddenly booms, your property will likely sell for a higher price.

That may be true. However, there are other factors to consider in your decision to list.

For example, will you be buying a new home as well? If so, then the higher selling price will probably be offset by the higher cost of the new property.

In addition, there may be characteristics of your home that will help sell it quickly and for a good price – today – regardless of the market conditions.

Hiring The Right Moving Company

Thu, 28 May 2015 00:05:00 GMT

How do you select the best moving company for your needs?

Ask for recommendations from friends other professionals in the local real estate industry.
Beware of fly-by-night operations. They may seem like a bargain, but you get what you pay for.
Does the company provide you with a written estimate and contract? (Beware of movers that just give you a price over the phone.)
Ask if they are covered by insurance, and what their policy is regarding lost or broken items. Make sure you receive a copy of their insurance certificate.

Finally, always ask what circumstances would result in extra charges being applied. The number one complaint received about movers by the Better Business Bureau is unexpected extra charges.

How much does "potential" cost?

Fri, 15 May 2015 00:06:00 GMT

When shopping for a new home, it's a good idea to try and see the potential of the property you're viewing. It may not be exactly what you're looking for "as is", but it may have the potential to become your dream home after some redecorating or renovating.

The challenge is, judging how much work is required. You don't want to buy a home with the expectation that it requires a $20,000 renovation, only to discover that it really needed three times that much!

That’s where a good REALTOR® can help.

I can help you get a realistic estimate of the cost of repairs, upgrades, and renovations, and even recommend some reputable interior designers or contractors.

That way, when you see a home with "potential", you'll be able to make a more informed decision.

Want more tips on finding and buying your next dream home? Call me today.