Monday, July 27, 2009

Reference

Here's a sweet reference I received from a happy client today.....

"Considering we met you by chance, we have been very happy with how everything turned out. Overall, the process of buying and selling went very smoothly due in part to your hardwork, dedication, work ethic and knowledge. You always had an answer to all our questions, were friendly and fun too! We have nothing but good things to say about you and how you conducted yourself. I'd like to say we'd use you again but I'm hoping to never have to move...way too much work!:) With that being said, we would definitely recommend you to our friends and family and of course, if for some reason we decide to move again you'll be the person we call. We love the new house and really feel like it's home..."

.....makes me so happy when my clients are happy! :)

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Private Buyers/Sellers

I don't like to harp on the dangers of buying and selling privately, but we hear these horror stories all the time. So, I thought I'd pass one along. Here's a true experience that was brought to our attention recently....

"Mrs. B decided to become an “instant” realtor by selling her home privately and save all that commission. A Buyer was found and the Agreement of Purchase and Sale drafted up by the (“instant" realtor) her lawyer. The offer was conditional upon financing.
Mrs. B decides to purchase a Power of Sale, and asks her lawyer how things are with the financing on her home. Her lawyer advices her that all seems in order and to make an offer on the P.O.S. which needs a “clean” offer to make it go as she is competing against another offer.
Mrs. B now has an agent to put in the offer. Agent asks Mrs. B to make sure she has her house sold. Agent is told that all is OK and to go ahead. (can you see it coming?) Mrs. B’s offer is accepted.
Mrs. B buyer however backs out of the deal on her home, due to (you guessed it) non qualifying for mortgage. Apparently her (“instant” lawyer mortgage advisor) guessed wrong.
Mrs. B still has her house for sale (privately) and owns 2 homes (soon) or will get sued."

Friday, July 3, 2009

SMART RENOS

So, perhaps you've been thinking about renos.... I often get asked which renos give back the most return...which ones are "worth" doing. It's a great question, and whether you're thinking about staying put or moving it's an important aspect to keep in mind when making those reno decisions.

Here are some Re/Max stats on Smart Renos....

Bathrooms - keep it neutral and spa-like. Bathroom renos on average get you 56% better return on your money.

Landscaping - aim for low maintenance and great curb appeal. Landscaping renos on average get you 7% better return on your money.

Kitchens - plenty of cupboard space, keeping in mind entertaining and work flow. Kitchen renos on average get you 44% better return on your money.

Flooring - neutral, neutral, neutral. Flooring renos on average get you 22% better return on your money.

Painting - again, keep it neutral, use your splashes of color in your accessories. Painting renos get you 29% better return on your money.

So, there you have it. Kitchens and baths have the most value to a buyer and doing those renos can get you the best return on your money, especially if you're willing to roll up those sleeves and become a little handy yourself! :)

Want more indepth info on this topic?
http://www.remax.ca/Reno/