Archive for the ‘Blog’ Category

Calgary Real Estate Market Snapshot for June 2020

Thursday, July 2nd, 2020

What is really happening in the Calgary Real Estate Market?  Everything you need to know at a glance.

What is really happening in the Calgary Real Estate Market?

The market is simply a result of Supply and Demand therefore we look at both Supply (inventory) and Demand (Sales) and the relationship between the two.  We also update you on the current benchmark price for all housing sectors.

Following is a graph that shows the months of inventory for each Sector.  Looking at a 2-year trendline gives you and indication of where things are really heading.

2 year Market Trend

 

Following is a summary of what I deem to be the most important numbers.  Again, we look at Total Inventory, Sales for the past 30 days, Months of Inventory and of course the benchmark price.  All numbers are taken from the Calgary Real Estate boards monthly stats package.

A quick look at key numbers in the Calgary Real Estate Market.

 

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

Much to everyone’s surprise the Calgary Real Estate market has come back as quickly as it declined with Covid-19.

Calgary Listing Inventory

Our listing inventory increased in all sectors.  The good news is that inventory increase less than sales.  Keeping our inventory in check is important in keeping balance in the market.

Calgary Sales:

June’s sales increased by a whopping 61.76% over may sales.  Again, this increase was in all sectors.  All sectors increases were in the 60% range except Semi Detached where the increase was less at 47.24%

Sales Compared to 2019:

It is critical to note that in all my other numbers I look at month over month.  This shows us the numbers this year compared too last year.  In June, our sales ended at 1.6% less than last year.   It is important to note that total sales in the first week of June were only at 301.  By the last full week of June we 492 sales so if all weeks were as strong as the last week we would have blown out last years sales.  Another interesting note is 492 is the highest number of sales in a week since June 2017.

One last mote on sales:  CMHC ( the government’s mortgage insurance company) changed the qualifying rules and the change came into effect as of July 1, 2020 so some people may have jumped into the market before this change came in.

  Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
2019 801 973 1327 1544 1915 1775 1642 1574 1365 1440 1146 858
2020 861 1195 1175 573 1080 1747
Change +60 +222 -152 -971 -835 -28
% change +7.49 +22.8 -11.4 -62.8 -45.5 -1.6

  

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices:  In my opinion fairly good considering Covid.

Detached homes increased by $500.

Semi-Detached decreased by $1,800

Attached Row increased by $100

Apartment Condos Decreased by $1,700

Total Market decreased by $300

  

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices Year to Date

Sorry to report that all sectors have declined in year to date pricing. The lowest decline is in Semi-Detached at .62%  The largest decrease was in Apartment Condos and they lost 3.18%

 Current Months of Inventory (Absorption Rate): 

At the end of June all sectors except apartment condo are less than 4.0 months of Inventory so all are in a balanced market. Apartment condos were a 6.79 which is a good improvement from 10.13 at the end of May.

It is also important to note that these numbers vary by community, and by price range.  If you would like numbers for your community contact us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relocating to a Different Town or City

Tuesday, June 16th, 2020

Moving around the corner or even across town is relatively simple because you are likely familiar with the various neighborhood’s and you can access them anytime. If there’s a listed home you want to view, you can simply go see it. Relocating to a different town or city, however, is much more challenging. It may not be possible for you to make multiple visits to see homes for sale. You may also be unfamiliar with the various neighborhood’s.  So what do you do if you want to move out-of-town or need to relocate due to work?

Your first step is to get the information you need.

  • You’ll want up-to-date data on the neighborhood’s so you can pinpoint the ones that are the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.
  • You’ll also want to get a sense of the types of homes for sale in those neighborhoods — style, size, features, listing price, etc.
  • A conversation with a Local agent can be a wealth or information.
  • Once you have an idea of area’s of interest have your agent set you up on a listing’s search – If you have time do this 3 -6 months early so you get a sense of prices in neighborhoods.

Your next step is to schedule a day (or more)  to view homes.  Remember buying a home is a huge investment so its wise to not rush the process. This visit must be carefully planned so you only see those properties that are likely to be of interest. You don’t want to travel all that way only to end up seeing properties you wouldn’t likely buy. What a waste of time!

So, if you’re relocating, you’ll need help. Give me a call. I can help make the relocation go smoothly for you.

Just Listed 1210 Coopers Drive SW

Monday, June 15th, 2020

 

Huge Price Reduction

Now only $599,000

MLS # A1036321

Don’t be fooled by the front photo that may look like a starter home.  With over 3570 square feet of developed living space and a 603 Square foot Attached garage this home is a stunner.

View online Listing @  https://www.tswrealestategroup.com/for-sale/1210-coopers-dr-sw–C4302051

Stunning family home in Coopers Crossing

Contact us for further information or your private viewing.

Dealing with Stress when Selling Your Home

Friday, June 12th, 2020

Let’s face it. Planning events, even exciting ones like an overseas vacation, can be stressful. So, it’s not surprising that some homeowners — even those thrilled about moving — can slip into “worry mode” when putting their property up for sale. Unfortunately, this anxiety can make the process of selling an unpleasant experience. Who wants that? So here are some things you can do to reduce selling stress and enjoy the adventure.

• Understand the selling process. The more you know about the steps involved in selling your home, the less mysterious — and, therefore, less stressful — it will be.

• Give yourself the time you need. Feeling rushed and stressed comes from trying to do too much in too little time. Even if you’re selling quickly, it’s important to block off sufficient time in your calendar for the things you need to do.

• Take care of yourself. As television psychologist Dr. Phil often points out, you can’t give what you don’t have. When it comes to selling your home, that means you need to eat well and stay healthy, so you have the energy you need throughout the process.

• Make your home attractive to buyers. That not only means tidying up and doing a little home staging, it also means setting the right listing price. Nothing eliminates the stress of selling more than having flocks of qualified buyers interested in your home.

• Get the help you need. You don’t have to do everything on your own. That’s why working with us is so advantageous. We take care of the many details for our clients so that they can enjoy the journey. Sure, there are going to be a few stressful moments. However, the process of listing and selling your property, while looking for your next dream home, can be an exciting experience. Let me help you.  Contact us Today.

Just Listed 6 Chisholm Cres NW Calgary Ab. T2L0Z1

Thursday, June 11th, 2020

Just listed this immaculately maintained 4 level split located on a quiet tree lined street situated on an oversized lot in the desired community of Charleswood.

Check our our Video Tour:  https://youtu.be/1J9InZXErQA

MLS Listing:  C4301537

See more info and photos @ https://www.tswrealestategroup.com/for-sale/6-chisholm-cr-nw–C4301537

Contact us for more information or to view

 


Calgary Real Estate Market Snapshot June 1, 2020

Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020

The market is simply a result of Supply and Demand therefore we look at both Supply (inventory) and Demand (Sales) and the relationship between the two.  We also update you on the current benchmark price for all housing sectors.

Following is a graph that shows the months of inventory for each Sector.  Looking at a 2-year trendline gives you and indication of where things are really heading.

Shows the absorption rate for every sector in the Calgary Real Estate market for the last 2 years.

Absorption Rate Graph

Following is a summary of what I deem to be the most important numbers.  Again, we look at Total Inventory, Sales for the past 30 days, Months of Inventory and of course the benchmark price.  All numbers are taken from the Calgary Real Estate boards monthly stats package.

Key Stats from the Calgary Real Estate Board.

 

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

Its been another interesting month in the Calgary market during this Covid 19 time.

An optimist would say we gained 88.5% on sales (from last month)

A pessimist would say were down 45.5% (from last year)

Calgary Listing Inventory

Typically, May is the start of the spring market and that means increased listings.  In May we increased our listing inventory from 5576 to 5813, only an increase of 237 listings.  This small increase is good news and is helping us hold the value of homes.

Calgary Sales:

Wow, what a change Sales in May increased by 88.5% over April.  All categories increased over 80% except apartment condos and they increased by 44.2%.

Sales Compared to 2019:

It is critical to note that in all my other numbers I look at month over month.  This shows us the numbers this year compared too last year.   So, although the market saw a huge improvement in May we are still down 45.5% from last year in May, meaning we have a long way to go.

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices:

As one would expect we did see price decreases in all sectors of between $1,800 (Condos) To $4,800 (detached homes) except for Semi-Detached homes which increased by $2000

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices Year to Date

Every sector has seen a decrease in Year to Date Benchmark price – the smallest decrease being in the Semi-Detached sector with a loss of $600.  All other sectors saw decreases of between $5,800 to $8,600. The Total decrease across all sectors is -$6,900  or 1.65

Current Months of Inventory (Absorption Rate): 

In May, all sectors decreased the absorption rate drastically.  This is mainly driven by our inventory holding, Decreases were between -3.8 to -4.95

It is also important to note that these numbers vary by community, and by price range.  If you would like numbers for your community contact us.

Just Listed this beautiful home in the Hamptons

Friday, May 22nd, 2020

Check out the Virtual Tour of this great listing below.

Highlights:  2578 Sq Ft. Above Grade, 4 Bedrooms up, Backs onto Green Space.

Impeccably maintained 2542 Sq. Ft. 6-bedroom home in a  fantastic Hampton’s location backing onto a south green space. Upon entry you will be amazed with the grand entry, chandelier, open ceiling and spiral staircase. Gleaming hardwood on main and upper floors. Main floor features a large living room, dining room, den-office, kitchen with stainless steel appliances,  granite, pantry, eating bar & a 3-sided fireplace all open to family room. Step onto the 12 x 19 deck with gorgeous open views of the green space making home perfect for entertaining.  Yard extensively landscaped with retaining wall, Waterfall & Pond, and mature decorative trees. Upstairs you will find hardwood flooring, 3 large bedrooms and the master featuring a 4- piece ensuite with corner jetted tub and a massive walk-in closet.  Down is fully developed with 2 additional bedrooms and boasts in-floor heating and new carpet.  Large Rec room with corner gas stone fireplace. Most windows replaced in 2018.

MLS: C4297293

Address:  312 Hampstead Way NW

For more Information or to View this home contact me

 

What’s really happening in the Calgary Real Estate market?

Friday, May 1st, 2020

 What is really happening in the Calgary Real Estate Market?

The market is simply a result of Supply and Demand therefore we look at both Supply (inventory) and Demand (Sales) and the relationship between the two.  We also update you on the current benchmark price for all housing sectors.

Following is a graph that shows the months of inventory for each Sector.  Looking at a 2-year trendline gives you and indication of where things are really heading.

 

Graph shows the 2 year trend of Months of Inventory for all housing categories in the Calgary Real Estate Market.

Following is a summary of what I deem to be the most important numbers.  Again, we look at Total Inventory, Sales for the past 30 days, Months of Inventory and of course the benchmark price.  All numbers are taken from the Calgary Real Estate boards monthly stats package.

Calgary Real Estate Board Stats

 

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

Well, its been an interesting month in the Calgary market during this crazy time. Notice I did not say unprecedented – the most over used word of 2020 in my humble opinion.

Calgary Listing Inventory

Typically, April is the start of the spring market and that means increased listings.  Do to the Covid-19 situation some Seller’s took their homes off the market and others simply did not list.  The total inventory decreased by 238 listings or 4.1%   The total new listings in April 2019 was 3126 and this year we had only 1425 so a decrease of 54.4%

Calgary Sales:

As expected, sales plummeted.  What surprised me is how many actual sales we had even with the City being essentially locked down.  Sales dropped from 1175 (in March) to 573 in April a 51.2% decrease.  April is also typically when sales increase due to spring market.

Calgary Sales Compared to 2019 Sales 

 

 

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices:

Prices decreased in all sectors except apartment condos which somehow increased by $700.  The highest decrease was in Attached – row homes and they decreased by $4300.

 

Calgary Real Estate Sales Prices Year to Date

Every sector has seen a decrease in Benchmark price – the highest being in the Attached Row house sector at $4,700 and the lowest decrease in Detached homes at $1000.

 

Current Months of Inventory (Absorption Rate): 

In April, all Sectors saw a massive increase in the absorption rates.  Actually, I honestly thought they would be much higher and, in my opinion that is what saved us is the number of new listings going on the market fell compared to a normal April.

 

Looking Forward

I am not going to pull out my crystal ball here, but I am going to share one more set of numbers for you.   CIR Realty has a way to track how many showings we have on our listings.  Here are the numbers.

Again, I do not have a Crystal ball, but this showings graph indicates to me that activity is starting to pick up again.

It is also important to note that these numbers vary by community, and by price range.  If you would like numbers for your community contact us.

 

9 Steps to Finding your Next Dream Home

Friday, May 1st, 2020

If you’re thinking ahead to your next dream home, the road you need to take to get there may seem confusing. Do you search for listings online? Drop by Open Houses on the weekends? Call the number on For Sale signs? Let’s break it all down! Here are the specific steps you need to take to ensure you find a home that fits your wants, needs and budget.

1. Find out how much your current property will likely sell for on today’s market.

2. Arrange for financing, so you know what you can afford.

3. Select neighbourhood’s you’d love to live in. (That may involve some fun exploring!)

4. Decide on the type of home you want to buy. (For example: detached, three-bedroom, etc.)

5. Prioritize the property features you want into must haves and wants, so you can be flexible if a feature is missing from a home listed on the market that is otherwise ideal.

6. View properties on the market that closely fit your criteria, particularly new listings that may not yet be posted online. (Tip: Arrange to be immediately notified of new listings that are a good fit for you.)

7. When you find a home you want, make an offer designed to get the property — without overpaying.

8. Negotiate until you secure the deal. This may involve counter-offers.

9. If the negotiation is skillfully done and all goes well, the home is yours. As you can see, there isn’t a lot of mystery in finding your next dream home. You just need to take the steps and get the professional help you need along the way. Looking for a real estate agent that can get you to the finish line? Contact us today

TSW Real Estate group has created a Home Buyer’s Action Plan – Get your free copy here

When a Home Inspector Finds an Issue!

Saturday, April 25th, 2020

Imagine you’ve found the perfect home. You love it. You’ve made an offer that’s been accepted. So far so good! The only catch? You’ve wisely made the offer conditional on passing a professional home inspection. What happens if that home inspection reveals a major issue? First, you should know that, depending on the age of the property, a home inspection will typically turn up at least a few areas of concern. The inspector might find loose insulation in the attic that is thinning out or roofing shingles that will need replacing in two or three years. Issues like those are not usually deal-breakers. However, if the home inspector finds a major issue — such as old wiring that’s worn and presents a safety concern — then you’re facing a potentially high cost of repair should the deal go through. In a situation like that, as your real estate agent, I will address the issue with the seller,  through the seller’s agent. Since neither of you will want to lose the deal, the seller often agrees to get the repair done at his own expense or, have some or all of the estimated repair cost deducted from the sale price. Will the deal be in jeopardy? Usually not. In most cases, if you have a real estate agent like me working in your best interests, it all works out.