REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE 2014
Compliments of
Real Estate Resource Guide 2011–2012 – 1
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
Home Buyers Checklist A basic list from FVREB gives a good base to follow Buying a home is one of the most expensive purchases most families will ever make. With that in mind, there is no such thing as being too careful. The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board has a useful checklist that can serve as an invaluable tool when researching a prospective home. While every buyer will look for certain deal breakers, here is a basic checklist that will give you a good base to follow before signing off on that ever-so-important purchase. P What size and shape is the lot? Is it fully serviced with sewage, water, gas and electrical lines? P How many square feet of living space is there? How many rooms? P What is the condition and age of the roof and are there any leaks or recent repairs? P Are there proper roof gutters and adequate downspouts that are properly connected to storm drains? P Are the interior walls and ceilings solid? Is there any evidence of leaks or cracks? Is there any evidence of dry rot or termites? P Are floors firm and level? What type of floors are beneath the carpeting? P Are the room sizes adequate for your needs, including storage areas and closet space?
P Is ventilating equipment satisfactory? Are there exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms? P What kind of heat system is it? What kind of fuel is used? How much does it cost to heat the house yearround? P Is there sufficient electrical wiring? Are there adequate outlets in the home? P What is the condition of the basement and foundation? Are there severe cracks in, or excessive or uneven settlement of, the foundation? Is the basement floor dry? P What about the attic or crawl space? Is there evidence of leaks? Is there proper insulation/ ventilation? P What is the condition of caulking on windows and doors? Do they open and close easily? P Is the kitchen suitable? Are there enough outlets and space for appliances? P What is included in the sale - appliances, etc.? P Is there sufficient parking? How large is the garage? P Is a property disclosure statement available? This form provides information about the state of the property to all potential buyers. P What's the zoning on the property? Are there any restrictive covenants, i.e., specific limitations on such things as use, occupancy, exterior finish?
H I G G I N S FA M I LY R O O T E D O N T H E S E M I A H M O O P E N I N S U L A S I N C E 1 9 2 7
Higgins Boys' Local Knowledge is Priceless!
Born and raised in White Rock, the Higgins boys are deeply entrenched on the Semiahmoo Peninsula with family roots going back over 85 years. "We grew up here," says Scott Higgins. "We have a deep appreciation for all the area has to offer: the schools, the beaches, local parks and sporting facilities where we spent so many hours as young men." "Our local knowledge is extensive and priceless!" Neil and Scott each have over 25 years successful sales and marketing experience.
"First and foremost is 100 per cent client satisfaction," the Higgins brothers agree. Neil has been a licensed realtor for over 10 years with 200 successful transations to his credit.Scott, in addition to being a licensed realtor, is also a successful real estate investor and a licensed property manager. "We put the client first," say the brothers Higgins. "That's the key to building long-term relationships and helping people achieve their real estate goals." Visit our website: higgyshouses.com
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE, NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION ON ANY REAL ESTATE MATTER!
Neil Higgins 604-803-6615
neil@hughmckinnon.com
Scott Higgins 604-788-7024
scott@hughmckinnon.com
14007-16th Avenue, South Surrey, BC Office: 604-531-1909 Toll Free: 1-888-419-1909 Fax: 604-531-4624
Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
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Buying a home is one of the most important purchases in your life! Put your trust in our 32 years of experience in real estate transactions delivered with our commitment to personal care and attention. Proudly serving the Semiahmoo Community since 1982
#106 - 1656 Martin Drive Please visit our website at www.cammack.ca Or contact us at: 604-536-7288
Why choose the Fraser Valley? From vast farmland to sparkling beaches, bustling cities to country living, it’s hard to narrow down what makes the Fraser Valley so attractive. We’ve got it all. So it’s no wonder that the Fraser Valley is recognized as one of the top developing regions in all of Canada. Our cities are growing at an incredible rate, and continue to offer a range of amenities and quality of life. Recently, the Real Estate Investment Network ranked Langley, Abbotsford, and Surrey as top cities to invest in for British Columbia. Citing affordable real estate, effective infrastructure, location, and employment opportunity as key draws, it’s only a fraction of what the Valley has to offer. The population of Surrey rose to more than 500,000 in 2013, putting it on-track to become British Columbia’s largest city. Langley and Abbotsford are also seeing immense growth, representing a strong balance of both rural and urban offerings. The Fraser Valley’s rising popularity can also be attributed to the region’s affordability. For families, there’s nothing better. In Mission, the price of a typical single-family home is under $360,000; own a townhome in Langley for less than $300,000 and move into a White Rock condo valued at $250,000 — all will net a long-term investment in thriving, progressive communities. Abbotsford and North Delta bring their own unique appeal for a similar price. Whether it’s now or looking to the future, the Fraser Valley has much going for it. It’s only going to get better. Provided by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
Janalee Barnes
Working hard
A passion for Real Estate drives what I do!
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Louise and Leslie each have diverse professional backgrounds to assist you in the buying and selling in this unique real estate market.
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LOUISE MCKNIGHT 604-209-9394 WWW.TEAM-MCKNIGHT.COM BAY REALTY LTD
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
I've been part of the growth in White Rock for 25 years and have developed unique knowledge of its communities and hidden treasures – as well as an intuitive feel for its real estate market.
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604-649-4252 RE/MAX Colonial Pacific Realty Ltd.
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MLS: The most reliable source of real estate information
A Tradition of Trust.
WHAT I OFFER: Y Years of experience in the Real Estate industry Y Full Service Program for Local, Out of Town & Overseas clients Y The best possible result for all my clients
Teresa Bergé 604.760.1950
Searching for homes on REALTOR.ca is a favourite pastime of many Canadians. About three million visit the site each month, checking out over 500,000 properties listed by REALTORS® from across Canada. But did you know that REALTOR.ca is really just the tip of the iceberg? The real storehouse of data exists out of sight, only visible to REALTORS®, in a complex, comprehensive database called the Multiple Listing Service® system or MLS®. The MLS® concept has been around since the late 1800’s. It’s an incredible example of how REALTORS®, who compete with each other for business, agreed that by being cooperative and pooling together information about properties for sale, they could better service their clients (“help me sell my inventory and I’ll help you sell yours”). With all the listings in one place, buyers have a broad selection of properties to choose from. For sellers, they know that their listing will be seen by a large number of qualified buyers working with knowledgeable licensed agents. Local real estate boards are responsible for creating, managing and financing the operation of a Multiple
> continued Why Use Me As your Mortgage Broker? 7 simple reasons:
LUISA HOUGH, Partner/Broker 604-568-XEVA (9382) lhough@xeva.ca • luisahough.ca #106 - 2626 Croydon Drive Surrey, BC V3S 0S8
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1. Get Independent advise on your financial options – We are Mortgage Agents and are not tied to one Lender or one product. My goal is to help you successfully finance your home. I get to know you, your needs and your homeownership goals so that I can ensure that you are in a mortgage/product that matches your every need. We will decide together on what’s right for you and your family. 2. Save time on Rate shopping – Your job is not to organize appointments and try to find out what the competing rates are out in the market place. That is my job. Your time and energy should be spent house-hunting. We work with many Lenders, and we can quickly narrow down a list of those that suit you best. 3. I Negotiate on your behalf – I deal with negotiating the rate and products directly with the Lenders; I am dedicated to finding the right mortgage solution for you. 4. More Choices – I have access to a network of major Lenders in Canada, so your options are extensive. Along with traditional lenders, we also know whats being offered by credit unions, trust companies, and other sources. 5. Ensure that you are getting the best rates and terms – Even if you currently have a mortgage or pre-approval with your institution you are not obliged to stop shopping. Let me investigate and see if there is a better rate, product or alternative that better suits your needs. 6. No Cost to you – There is absolutely no charge for my services. How can I afford to do that, like many other professionals services such as insurance, mortgage brokers are generally paid a finder’s fee when we introduce you to a financial institution. These fees are quite standard and nearly industry-wide so that the focus remains on you my client. 7. Ongoing Support and consultation – Even once your mortgage is signed and paperwork is complete, I am here for you if you need any advice on closing details and future needs. My goal is to establish long term relationships with my clients and assist them as their needs change throughout their life. My clients come back to me for advice during their mortgage term so that I can align their mortgage repayment and strategy with their other financial goals. I am very committed to finding the right solutions for my clients that go beyond just getting a good interest rate. I work for YOU not the bank. XEVA Mortgage (Verico) – My company name…I love this name as the meaning represents who I am and what I aspire to be. MEANING - “I have aspiration hope and guidance. Because I am intuitive and perceptive, I understand human nature. I am versatile and I have the power to achieve. I am inspired, introspective and have good understanding of the human heart. I desire to inspire and to lead, to influence each others affairs. I am giving, courageous and bold; action oriented, energetic and strong-willed. I want to make a difference!”
Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
morgan crossing notaries Searching for homes online is a favourite pastime
Listing Service® in their geographic area. The Fraser Valley MLS® was introduced in 1955. In the early days, information was captured on rolodex cards and shared around to their colleagues. Then when the MLS® started taking shape, listings submitted to the MLS® were circulated as “tear-sheets”. REALTORS® would then three-hole punch them and update their binders accordingly. As printing technologies advanced, listings and sales data were then compiled and circulated as catalogues, eventually with pictures! The move to computer database technology started in 1978 for the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, and since then, REALTORS® have stayed at the cutting edge by
see page 8
Q Real Estate Q Mortgages Q Contracts Q Wills Q Powers of Attorney Q Representation Agreements Q Notarization of Documents Q Statutory Declarations Q Affidavits Q Travel Letters
Jacek Januszewski MA ALS NOTARY PUBLIC
Nikolay Eskin MA ALS NOTARY PUBLIC
Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q
107 - 15850 24th Ave., South Surrey
604.541.9990
www.morgancrossingnotaries.com Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q
CELEBRATING 26 SUCCESSFUL YEARS IN WHITE ROCK REAL ESTATE
Committed to providing professional, informed Real Estate Services to all individuals seeking assistance with the sale or purchase of property. • Emerald Master Medallion Member FVREB • RE/MAX Hall of Fame • RE/MAX Platinum Club • RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award
"I have helped over 1000 families purchase or sell a property. For your real estate needs, call today!"
www.maureenfritz.ca Colonial Pacific Realty Ltd.
15414 - 24th Avenue, South Surrey • 604-541-4888 Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
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Opening Doors!
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AURA HIBEAULT
HIBEAULT H IBEAULT
HomeLife Benchmark Realty Corp. White Rock
604-531-1111 www.laurathibeault.com
JOSIE
Flooring Experts So You Don’t Have To Be!
Paperless workÁow includes several checks for accuracy Errors and costs reduced for everyone pooling together resources and over the years, millions of dollars, thus ensuring they have the most up-todate, comprehensive data and systems with which to advise their clients and promote properties for sale. Our database has history information back to 1978 with pictures back to 1994. Today, REALTORS® access a myriad of technology tools, including contracts and forms electronically, using a product developed by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board in 1999, called WEBForms®. All information relating to the MLS® is handled in a paperless workflow, with several checks for accuracy and completeness of data reducing errors and costs for everyone involved. Within hours of posting on the MLS®, a small portion of the data flows to a number of public websites for advertising purposes, including REALTOR.ca (residential listings), ICX.ca (commercial listings) as well as individual REALTOR®, brokerage and approved thirdparty websites. The MLS® remains a key tool for REALTORS® and one of the many ways that REALTORS® bring value to their working relationship with clients. Provided by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
Serving our community since 1981 Corporate & Commercial Real Estate & Mortgages Wills, Estates, Trusts and Committeeships Powers of Attorney, Representation Agreements
TIM
Serving the community for 35 YEARS! ROB
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
J. DALE BRADFORD BRADFORD & GREEN BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS
604-531-1041 2nd Floor, 2099 - 152nd St., South Surrey See our website at: www.bradfordandgreen.com
Some renos make home less appealing Home improvements are typically made to improve the functionality and look of a home, but renovations also can increase the value of a home. Certain changes to a home can make it more attractive to prospective buyers, while other renovations may make a home less appealing. For example, a complete overhaul of an outdated kitchen is often a smart financial move, while installing a pool or hot tub may not be worth the cost to homeowners. Separating the good from the bad renovations makes smart financial sense, and homeowners looking to improve their homes’ resale values may want to avoid the following projects. • Bedroom and garage conversions: Changing a room’s traditional function often turns off buyers. For example, turning a garage into a home gym might seem like a great idea for you, but it may not be so appealing to prospective buyers. Buyers can certainly reconvert the space, but they would consider the costs of such a conversion when making their offers on the home. • Stylized colors on trims and rooms: Painting over unappealing colors is a project many homeowners can handle. However, some may be discouraged by a home that has too many bright colors or textures on the walls and trims. Buyers often want homes that are move-in ready, meaning they can get settled in before undertaking large projects. A living room painted in purple or zebra print may not fit the design scheme of many buyers. Dark colors do not easily disappear, and taping off and painting trimwork or changing it entirely can be equally time-consuming. Stick with neutral colors when selling a home, even if this means giving rooms a new coat of paint before putting your house on the market. • Outdoor hot tubs and indoor spa tubs: Many people find soaking in a bubbling brew of hot water quite inviting. But buyers often do not want to inherit a used hot tub. Although hot tubs are cleaned and maintained with sanitizing chemicals, some people may view them as unsanitary. Removing a hot tub can be labor-intensive. And much like a pool, a hot tub may not be appealing to buyers with young children. • Removing closets: Closet space is often high on buyers’ priority lists. Turning closet space into an office or removing a closet to make a room bigger may be fine for those who are staying put. But these modifications can be a turn-off to prospective buyers. • Too many features: In an effort to “keep up with the Joneses,” some homeowners will over-improve their home to the point that it outshines all others on the street. There is a case for having nice things, but homeowners may struggle to sell a home that is disproportionate to other homes in the area. Practice moderation when making improvements to attract more buyers. These suggestions are merely guidelines and should not replace the advice of a reputable real estate agent when marketing a home. Making informed choices before renovating can help homeowners recoup the largest share of their investments.
®
Colonial C ol Pacific Realty
Proud P ro to support oour ur local lo community! SPONSORSHIPS
✓ Pumpkin Run to benefit Peace Arch Hospital Foundation ✓ CTV Salvation Army Toy Drive ✓ Fresh Air Cinema at Spirit of the Sea Festival ✓ White Rock South Surrey Titans Football Club ✓ White Rock South Surrey Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament ✓ Sources Community Resources Annual Fundraising Gala ✓ White Rock Youth Ambassador Program ✓ White Rock South Surrey Tritans Baseball Sponsor ✓ White Rock Spirit of the Sea Festival Sand Art ✓ Princess Party to support White Rock Firefighters Charity ✓ KidSport BC ✓ Softball City ✓ Ocean Athletics SCHOLARSHIPS
✓ Annual scholarships to six students from Earl Marriott Secondary, Elgin Park Secondary and Semiahmoo Secondary Our office contributed $33,375.50 to the Children’s Miracle Network in 2013.
Internationally RE/MAX has contributed over $123,000,000
Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results.® 15414 - 24 Avenue White Rock/South Surrey 604-541-4888 Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
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Real estate investing for beginners 604-531-4000 PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES Whether you are a buyer, seller, or both, let my 20 years of real estate experience guide you through the process to meet your real estate goals.
17
YEAR
FOR THE
MASTER MEDALLION CLUB MEMBER FRASER VALLEY REAL ESTATE BOARD
Bay Realty Ltd. #246-1959-152nd Street White Rock, B.C. kvolway@bayrealty.com www.katherinevolway.com
Amar K. Kler, your local Notary Public Providing Excellent Service in: X Purchase and Sale Real Estate Transactions X Wills X Mortgages / Refinancing X Powers of Attorney X Statutory Declarations X Affidavits X Notarizations
Amarjit K. Kler Notary Corp.
PART PA ART R OF A TRUSTED TRADITION FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND
604.560.5007 fax: 604.560.5008 email: amar@amarkler.com web: www.amarkler.com Suite 201 - 1538 Foster St., White Rock M ember
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
On the heels of a recession that saw home values drop, many would-be investors have shied away from buying investment properties. But real estate has historically remained a sound investment, boasting a long-term appreciation rate that makes it a worthwhile investment for those who can withstand temporary setbacks in housing prices and hold on to their properties over the long haul. But investors are often nervous as they look for their first properties. Uncertainty about housing prices aside, investing in real estate also is risky, and first-time investors need to be comfortable with such risk in order to make the most of their investments. The following are a few things potential real-estate investors should consider as they decide if investing in real estate is right for them. Personal ability Real-estate investors typically have tenants, and those tenants inevitably have needs. Investors who have experience as contractors may not find it difficult to renovate a property and make it more attractive to tenants, nor are they likely to be inconvenienced when minor issues on the property need to be addressed. Investors with no such experience will need to hire contractors to do the work for them, cutting into
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Looking to buy? Looking to sell? Looking to update? Look no further! We can take care of it all! We’ll get your home ready to sell, stage it, and put a SOLD sign on it, too! With 25 years in the industry, I am happy to share my experience with you!
Above All Contracting South Surrey www.aboveallcontracting.ca 604-970-7083 agdis@shaw.ca
Sutton Group West Coast Realty 15595-24th Ave., Surrey agdis@shaw.caa
Al Dyck
potential profits down the road. In addition, investors who don’t have the ability and/or the time to address minor issues like a clogged drain or a drafty window on their own will need to hire a property management firm to tend to such needs. Such firms are effective, but also expensive, further cutting into your profits. Even those investors with contracting experience may have little or no knowledge of how the leasing process works, forcing them to rely on a real estate firm to write up leases and ensure all leases stay current. This, too, can cut into an investor’s profits. Investors who don’t bring any relevant expertise to the table can still make a profit from their real estate investments, but those profits likely won’t be as significant when outside companies must be hired to ensure the property is in good shape and all necessary documents are in order and up-to-date. Time Real estate is often a time-consuming investment. Tenants pay good money to live in attractive rental properties, and those tenants will have a host of needs that must be met. Investors must be sure they have the time to address their tenants’ concerns, especially investors with no plans to hire property management firms. Potential investors who already have full plates at work and at home may not be able to devote the time necessary to make the most of their real estate investments, and therefore might be better off finding another way to invest their money. Time also must be considered when considering
profits. Real estate is not the type of investment that turns a profit overnight. Even investors who are looking to invest in an up-and-coming neighbourhood must be prepared to hold onto their properties for at least a few years, if not much longer, to maximize their investments. Though real estate is a sound investment, it is not a get-rich-quick type of investment, so investors looking to make a quick buck should consider alternatives before buying investment properties. Size First-time real estate investors might be wise to choose a smaller property for their initial investment. Larger properties can be overwhelming to manage, and investors often rely on property management firms to tend to these properties. Such firms charge more to manage bigger properties, which can eat into investors’ finances. Veteran investors can handle such overhead costs, but first-timers might find themselves caught off guard upon realizing the gravity of their financial commitment. A good rule of thumb for first-time investors is to stick to smaller properties, only moving on to larger buildings once they are fully comfortable with all that comes with investing in real estate. Costs The cost of a real estate investment goes beyond the purchase price of the home. In addition to the mortgage on the property, investors must pay the taxes and insurance on the property, as well as any costs associated with maintaining and managing the property.
Welcome Home....to White Rock Earls Court
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Developments by: Oviedo Development Ltd.
Modern interior features and open floor plans will enhance the enjoyment of your new home. Fabulous kitchen with built-in appliances and bar area. Some selection of homes offer double car garage, bonus room and ocean views! All within walking distance to all White Rock amenities.
6 Double car garage units Ocean view Great location Great kitchen, built in study table 3 bedroom with Den at Main floor Double car garage, extra parking in front of garage Walk to beach, Semiahmoo high school and shopping.
For Details or your private viewing call
604-787-9322
or Viven Yang 778-320-6495 viven@vivienyang.ca
Sutton Group West Coast Realty
Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
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Time your move to save money Buying a new home is the most expensive purchase a person is likely to make in his or her lifetime. It also can be one of the more stressful. Moving is the third most stressful event in life, following death and divorce. But a well-timed move can reduce stress and save money. Moving during certain times of the year can result in considerable savings. Moving during the summer, when children are out of school and the weather is nice, can make a move more manageable. Keep in mind that because late spring and summer are the peak moving seasons, they also tend to be more expensive. Many moving companies and truck rental agencies will charge a premium if you use their services during the summer. Furthermore, crews may change in the summer when students on vacation could fill in for regular, more experienced movers. High prices are not only reserved for those who buy a new house during the spring and summer. Renters may find spring and summer is also the peak season for rentals. Many property managers can attest that the dates between June 2 and August 30 are quite busy in terms of apartment turnover. University students are more likely to move as soon as the academic year ends, and many landlords plan leases to expire in the summer
www.artisanconcretelifting.com
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
months to ensure that re-renting places will be easier thanks to a flooded apartment market. There might be greater rental availability during the warm-weather months, it also means greater competition between prospective tenants. That greater competition can drive up prices. But apartments are harder to fill in the fall or at the onset of winter. That’s because many people do not want the hassle of moving once school has started or the weather has chilled. Landlords who are stuck paying utilities and advertising fees for vacant apartments are far more likely to negotiate rent prices, lease terms and even security deposits during the winter in an effort to fill the apartment quickly. People sitting with homes on the market are also more likely to negotiate during cooler months when foot traffic has fizzled out. That can make shopping for a home in the fall advantageous to home buyers. Here are some other tips to reduce stress and save money when moving into a new home or apartment. • Move mid-week. Weekends are a prime time for truck
rentals and moving companies. Pick a Tuesday or a Wednesday to move, and you’re much more likely to find an available moving service (even during peak moving months); you may even be able to negotiate a lower rate. • Pick a mid-month moving date. Many people move at the beginning of the month when leases are up or after mortgage payments are made. Fewer people move in the middle of the month, so you might find more affordable moving deals if you can wait a few extra weeks. • Schedule a fall or winter move. The Moving and Storage Association says half of all moves occur during one-third of the year -- between the beginning of May and Labor Day. Beat the rush by moving outside of these dates. • Get an early start. Many people underestimate the amount of time it takes to actually move their belongings. Try to schedule a moving company to come very early in the morning to give you ample time to pack up the truck and unpack at your new home.
STABILITY IS OUR FOUNDATION.
Hugh & McKinnon has been providing clients with professional, personalized real estate service for decades. Based in South Surrey, we are a group of professional Realtors and Property Managers who utilize leading edge technology and traditional values to achieve results for our clients. We develop and deploy customized advertising strategies that give your property maximum exposure in the marketplace. Our sales group works to create a unique experience for home buyers and deliver unparalleled value to sellers. We provide Property Management Services for Residential and Commercial Real Estate, owned by local individuals, national and international property investors and corporations.
14007-16th Avenue, South Surrey, BC Office: 604-531-1909 Toll Free: 1-888-419-1909 Fax: 604-531-4624 www.hughmckinnon.com Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
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Buying or Selling a Home? I can help with all your legal documents, Power of Attorney, Wills
Jennine Fitterer, NOTARY PUBLIC #103 - 15149, Hwy (152nd + Hwy 10) Tel. 604-579-0205 Fax. 604-579-0212 jfitterer@shaw.ca
Improving curb appeal Homeowners who want their homes to make strong first impressions must prioritize curb appeal. Homes with strong curb appeal sell well and can impart a welcoming feel to all visitors. Improving curb appeal need not be expensive, and the following are a handful of ways to improve the appearance of your home. 1. Install a bold-looking door in a vibrant color or one with a custom design. This helps the home stand out from other properties in the neighbourhood. 2. Edge the driveway to create a distinct border between the driveway and the lawn or other landscaping features. This helps homes appear neat and well kept. 3. Use outdoor lighting to make a home more inviting. Outdoor lighting also makes properties safer to traverse at night. 4. Clean a home's exterior to remove mildew or discolorations from the siding, driveway, patio, and other outdoor elements. 5. Improve landscapes with fresh plants and seasonal color. Homeowners without the time to plant can consider container gardens, which don't take much time to assemble but still add appeal to a home's exterior. 6. Prune planting beds and add new mulch to restore color. 7. Add shutters and accent trim to a home's exterior to improve on the beauty of the house. 8. Replace concrete paths with tile or stone walkways to make entryways more impressive and inviting.
SPECIALIZING IN Interior Transformations for Selling or Living
Q Sell your home fast Q Revitalize your existing decor for a fresh repurposed look that’s affordable Q Create a special room in your home you will love Q Contact Jean to save time, money and energy Q Stress free homestaging by a certified professional
JEAN BURNS PRES® Certified Home Stager & Re-designer Specialist
604-290-2903
Jean@JBHomeStaging.com www.JBHomeStaging.com
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Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
JUST BELIEVE IN TRANSFORMATION
Factors that might hurt a home's value Homeowners looking to sell their homes know it's not as easy to do so as it might have been a few years ago. A struggling economy has made it difficult for many homeowners to sell their homes for a price they're comfortable with. But the sagging economy is not the only thing can make it difficult to sell a home. In fact, a host of other things, some obvious but some not so obvious, can hurt a home's value as well. • Location: A home's location is arguably its best or worst selling point. A home in a great location won't be as difficult to sell as a home in a bad location. • Appearance: A home's appearance is another obvious variable that might affect its resale value. Homeowners might want their home to reflect their own individuality, but that's not going to help when the time comes to sell the home. If the exterior paint is out of the ordinary, then it might be wise to choose a more traditional color before erecting the "For Sale" sign out front. The same goes for a home's interior. If the interior design is especially unique, a more traditional interior decor might help the home sell faster. • Size and style: Another thing to consider when selling a home is its size and style. A home that stands out on the block might be an attention-grabber, but that's not always attractive to prospective buyers. For instance, a colonial sitting in the middle of a street filled with contemporary homes will stand out, but likely for all the wrong reasons. It will likely appear dated and out
of place, which is something buyers might not want. In addition, if the home is considerably larger or smaller than the surrounding homes, then this could hurt its value. • Non-conformity: In many ways, conformity is not considered an admirable trait. But when selling a home, conformity could make the difference between a home selling quickly or remaining on the market for months if not years. When shopping for a home, buyers often shop in certain neighbourhoods and towns and might see many different homes within a given area. Homeowners with homes that don't conform to others in the area might find it difficult to sell their homes. For instance, homeowners trying to sell a two bedroom home in a neighbourhood filled with three bedroom homes might notice their home's value is not as high as that of surrounding homes, regardless of the neighbourhood or how similar the home's exterior is to surrounding homes. • Age: Older homes might have character and a sense of nostalgia, but appraisers take age into consideration when determining a home's value. And buyers tend to lean toward newer homes for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the feeling that newer homes have far more modern amenities than older homes. When it comes to a home's value, there are a host of things that could ultimately increase or decrease that value in the eyes of prospective buyers.
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Golf & Country Club 18150 - 8TH AVENUE, SOUTH SURREY www.wcgg.ca • 604-538-1212 Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014
15
SuƩon West Coast—Canada’s #1 Real Estate Broker
SUTTON WEST COAST
CANADA’S
Real trends top 250 report may 2013
#1 REAL
JOANNE TAYLOR HAMISH ROSS
ESTATE BROKER
9LHS ;YLUKZ ;VW 9LWVY[ 4H` *Real Trends Top 250 Report, May 2013
JOANNE TAYLOR : WWW.JOANNETAYLORHOMES.COM 778-227-1443 HAMISH ROSS: WWW.HAMISHROSS.COM 604-376-7687
INCREDIBLE SERVICE
info@hamishross.com info@joannetaylorhomes.com
RECENT ACTIVITY
Born and raised in White Rock, Hamish’s thorough $2,688,000 $2,688,000 – HAZELMERE knowledge of the area, combined with his love of negoƟaƟon, enables him to oīer the highest caliber of advocacy, guidance and assistance to his clients. Hamish studies the market and educates himself to be aware of all real estate developments in the area. He prides himself on being a tremendous advocate for his clients. Hamish is a proud supporter of the community and is a sponsor of the Bayside Rugby club. He parƟcularly enjoys $2,498,000 $2,498,000 – CHANTRELL PARK Ɵme with his family and new baby girl!
HAMISH ROSS
Joanne lives in White Rock & has a genuine passion for real estate. With a solid background in business, sales and markeƟng, she is commiƩed to providing the highest level of service and provides superior results. Joanne enjoys her connecƟon with the community through her membership and proud support of the Rotary Club of South Surrey & was recently awarded Rotarian of the Year. Joanne prides herself on looking aŌer her clients best interests and needs with genuine care and experƟse. Joanne aƩributes her success to be based on a foundaƟon of hard work.
JOANNE TAYLOR
$2,188,000 $2,188,000 – CHANTRELL PARK
Natasha moved to White Rock in 2011 and is in love $1,398,000 – WHITE ROCK with this beachside town. She is in charge of making sure the $1,398,000 machine rolls along in an eīecƟve manner! She plays a large role in all of the markeƟng, lead management and weekly client care. She has been involved in the creaƟon and successful management of two thriving businesses and is very familiar with what it takes to be a part of a growing business. “The sacriĮces are worth it to be part of such an incredible team! I absolutely love my job and the people I get to meet in this amazing city!”
NATASHA YOUNG
OUTSTANDING
RESULTS
This is not intended to solicit properƟes currently listed for sale or individuals currently under contract with a brokerage.
16 Peace Arch News • REAL ESTATE RESOURCE GUIDE • 2014