Archive for August, 2023

Getting Your Home Ready to Shine: Seller’s Guide to Preparing for a Successful Sale

Tuesday, August 29th, 2023

Selling your home is a significant step, and making a great first impression is key to attracting potential buyers. By preparing your home properly, you can increase its appeal and potentially secure a faster sale at the best possible price. As a seasoned Realtor in Calgary, Alberta, I’m here to guide you through the process of getting your home ready to shine. Let’s dive into some essential tips for preparing your home for a successful sale:

1. Start with a Fresh Perspective: Take a step back and look at your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. Notice areas that could use improvement and address them proactively.

2. Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove excess items and personal touches. A clutter-free and neutral space allows buyers to envision themselves living in the home.

3. Deep Clean Every Nook and Cranny: A sparkling clean home sends a strong message to buyers. Clean carpets, windows, appliances, and all surfaces thoroughly.

4. Enhance Curb Appeal: The exterior is the first thing buyers see. Trim bushes, mow the lawn, repaint the front door, and add potted plants to create an inviting entrance.

5. Tackle Repairs and Maintenance: Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any other minor issues. Addressing these repairs shows that your home has been well-maintained.

6. Neutralize and Paint: Consider painting rooms with neutral colors. This helps buyers visualize their belongings in the space and gives a fresh, clean look.

7. Stage for Success: Staging can transform your home, making it more appealing and helping buyers imagine its full potential. Arrange furniture to showcase the room’s function and create a warm atmosphere.

8. Maximize Natural Light: Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light. Well-lit spaces appear larger and more welcoming.

9. Minimize Odors: Unpleasant odors can be a turnoff for buyers. Use air fresheners, bake cookies before showings, and keep pet areas clean and odor-free.

10. Highlight Key Features: If your home has standout features like a fireplace, vaulted ceilings, or a stunning view, make sure these are showcased prominently during showings.

11. Organize Storage Spaces: Buyers will open closets and cupboards, so ensure these spaces are tidy and well-organized to give the impression of ample storage.

12. Consider Professional Photography: High-quality photos are essential for online listings. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture your home’s best angles.

13. Gather Documents: Compile important documents related to your home, such as warranties, manuals, and utility bills. Buyers appreciate having this information readily available.

14. Be Flexible with Showings: Try to accommodate potential buyers’ schedules as much as possible. The more flexible you are, the easier it will be for interested parties to view your home.

15. Consult a Realtor: Enlist the help of a skilled Realtor like myself who knows the local market. A Realtor can provide valuable insights, pricing guidance, and marketing strategies.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to preparing your home for a successful sale. Remember that first impressions matter, and investing time and effort into presenting your home in the best possible light can significantly impact its appeal to potential buyers. If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out to me for personalized guidance and support throughout the selling process. Together, we’ll work towards a smooth and lucrative sale in Calgary’s dynamic real estate market.

Just Listed – Richmond Calgary

Friday, August 25th, 2023

Check out this new listing in Richmond, Calgary

MLS : A2076149

List Price: $575,000

Sneak Peek Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/M0BNG_AOHx8

Open House Saturday & Sunday August 26 & 27 from 2:00 to 5:00

 

Awesome Value in the Inner city property.

 

Proudly Presenting 2642 25A Street SW, a meticulously maintained 2-storey residence that exudes pride of ownership in every corner. This captivating home, located just minutes away from downtown Calgary, offers over 2300 square feet of thoughtfully developed living space. From the moment you step through the entrance, you’ll be captivated by the warmth and elegance that radiate throughout. As you enter, the inviting living room welcomes you with its exquisite hardwood flooring and abundant natural light streaming through the large windows. The living room serves as a comfortable gathering space for family and friends to enjoy quality time. Adjacent to the living room, the spacious dining room beckons, perfect for hosting memorable family dinners or entertaining guests. The generously sized kitchen boasts ample space and features an additional dining nook, creating a cozy spot for casual meals. From here, step out to your private yard, complete with a deck and natural gas hookup for your BBQ, an idyllic setting for outdoor gatherings and relaxation. Venture upstairs to discover the expansive primary bedroom, where vaulted ceilings add an air of grandeur. The primary bedroom also boasts a well-appointed 4-piece ensuite and a substantial walk-in closet. To enhance your living experience, the primary bedroom offers access to a private balcony, allowing you to bask in the beauty of Calgary’s evenings. Completing the upper level are two more inviting bedrooms, perfect for family members, guests, or a home office. The main bathroom, conveniently equipped with laundry facilities, adds a touch of practicality to this level. The lower level of this remarkable home features an illegal suite with a separate entrance, offering versatile options for your living needs. A spacious living room welcomes you, accompanied by a full kitchen that allows for self-sufficient living. The bedroom (please note that the window might not meet code regulations), a four-piece bathroom, and in-suite laundry facilities round out the suite’s offerings. The property includes a single garage and an additional parking pad, ensuring ample space for your vehicles. The furnace was thoughtfully replaced in 2013. Situated mere minutes from downtown Calgary, this residence enjoys close proximity to transit options, LRT stations, and vibrant destinations like Marda Loop, where shopping, dining, and entertainment abound. With easy access to recreational facilities, swimming, golf, and more, this home offers a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this elegant house your new home. Schedule a viewing today.

Calgary Real Estate Market Snapshot – Aug 1, 2023

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

What is really happening in the Calgary Real Estate Market?

 

Following is a graph that shows the months of inventory for each housing sector. Looking at a one-year trendline gives you an indication of where things are really heading.

Months of Inventory

 

 Gord’s commentary for the month (just my opinion).

July 2023 Highlights

The Calgary Market is maintaining its strength, although there are signs of change on the horizon.

  • Sales were the strongest July on record.
  • Months of Inventory increased by .22 for the month.
  • We remain in a deep seller’s market.

Calgary Listing Inventory

Our listing inventory remains very low with a total of 3488 listings on the market, an increase of 30 since July 1, 2023.  Its important to note that new listings are trending slightly up, but they are being absorbed so the inventory is not increasing at a pace we typically expect at this time of the year.

Calgary Sales:

Sales in July were 2647 making this the best July on record with the Calgary Real Estate Board.   Sales were down by 499 compared to June but it is normal that once we hit July sales decline every month until the end of the year.  What’s interesting is that sales were 309 higher than last year.

 

Sales Compared to 2022: 

It is also important to look at sales compared to the Previous year. Sales for April were 711 less than last year. Again, in my opinion this is simply due to not having enough Inventory on the market.

  Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July
2022 2004 3305 4091 3401 3071 2837 2249
2023 1199 1740 2432 2690 3120 3146 2647
Change -805 -1565 -1659 -711 +57 +309 +398
% Change -40.1% -47.4% -40.55% -20.9% +1.9% +10.9% +17.7%

 

Calgary Real Estate Benchmark Sales Prices:

The overall benchmark price continues to increase. The overall benchmark price increased by $3000 or .53%. The largest gain was in the Attached -Row sector with an increase of $7,500 which happens to be the same sector that saw the smallest increase in months of inventory.

 

Calgary Real Estate Benchmark Year to Date Sales Price:  See chart below.

For all of Calgary we have so far seen an increase in all sectors of 9.43% or $48,900. The lowest dollar increases so far has been apartment condos at $31,100 and the highest is Detached homes at $70,900.

 

Current Months of Inventory (Absorption Rate): 

Months of Inventory has increased for the second month in a row, which tells me that the direction is changing.  Our overall months of inventory is 1.32. Months of inventory below 2.5 indicates a seller’s market so we are still deep in a seller’s market.  The largest increase in Months of Inventory was in the Detached sector increasing by .35. Note the Attached-Row sector saw the smallest increase of .10.

 

My Prediction for what is ahead:  Based on what is driving demand (largely immigration) and I do not see that changing any time soon, I predict sales are going to remain strong and prices are going to continue to trend upwards although based on trends I see us slowly climbing out of the seller’s market.

*All numbers vary by community and price ranges, if you would like stats specifically for your neighbourhood, please contact us.

See Stats from the Calgary Real Estate Market Below

Calgary Real Estate Board Stats