A hilarious spoof on Transport Canada and security protocols at airports...Sincerely,Jason Neumann, REALTOR®
Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd.
Cell: (250) 808-7700
Office: 1-888-301-2121
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Showing posts with label Century 21 Kelowna. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Century 21 Kelowna. Show all posts
Monday, February 8, 2010
Transport Canada - Check in at your own risk!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
How To Market Your Home Effectively
What's Involved in Marketing Your Home
In today's fast-paced, high-stakes marketplace, it takes know-how to sell a home. That's why most sellers enlist the services of a REALTOR® - a professional who has the qualifications, experience, skills, time and knowledge to provide the advice and services needed.
A REALTOR® will market your home to your best advantage. He or she will help you set a price that reflects the true value of your home under the current market conditions. They will also explain the selling process and help you close a deal.
But even before you enlist the help of a REALTOR®, it's a good idea to try to understand the steps involved in making a successful sale.
Article Courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Thursday, March 5, 2009
A well planned Open House can sell your home!
Preparing for your Open House
First impressions count when selling your home - especially during an Open House. Your REALTOR® will help you prepare for your open house by suggesting many ways you can present your home in its best light and increase its saleability factor.
An open house is just one aspect of an effective marketing plan your REALTOR® will develop to sell your home and one of the many services a REALTOR® provides.
Tips and advice on how to get to your house ready for sale are also part of a REALTOR®’s expertise.
He or she will advise you about things like de-cluttering and de-personalizing your home as well as minor improvements such as painting and rearranging furniture. Obviously, you will want to ensure your home is squeaky clean for your open house and there are other simple touches that can make your home even more appealing.
Fresh flowers are an easy way to give your home a cheery and well-looked-after feeling. Invest in enough flowers to place one large bouquet for impact either in the foyer or the living room and a few smaller ones throughout the house. The scent of fresh-brewed coffee, home-made bread or cookies can also be very welcoming. See the list below for more Open House preparation tips.
Article Courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Your home is more than just a listing!
This topic is one that I take deadly serious and that is how a home is marketed! I am a 100% dedicated online real estate agent and believe in the power of online marketing. That being said, there is so much at stake for Sellers and they need to be assured that their interests are being well represented and respected. This OMREB article does touch on making sure that the REALTOR® you choose has a strong marketing plan in place. Enjoy reading this and thanks for stopping by!
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
A Real Estate Listing: More Than Just an Ad in the Paper!
"Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, you will need professional help to ensure your home gets maximum exposure and is well-marketed. You will want to enlist the services of a real estate professional to make sure you achieve your goals.
The listing is the beginning of a selling process that includes a well-thought-out and detailed marketing plan, accessibility to a wide range of potential buyers and commitments to professional service. It also means you will receive friendly, helpful advice throughout the sale of your home.
Technically speaking, a listing is an authority granted by you to a real estate broker to act as your agent in offering your property for sale or lease - according to the terms and conditions set out in the listing contract.
When you list your home with a real estate broker, you are entering into a binding agreement with that firm, so it is important to choose a company and a real estate salesperson that you are satisfied with. To find the right firm and individual, try interviewing three REALTORS® and ask them about the services they will offer when they list your home."
Full article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
A Real Estate Listing: More Than Just an Ad in the Paper!
"Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, you will need professional help to ensure your home gets maximum exposure and is well-marketed. You will want to enlist the services of a real estate professional to make sure you achieve your goals.
The listing is the beginning of a selling process that includes a well-thought-out and detailed marketing plan, accessibility to a wide range of potential buyers and commitments to professional service. It also means you will receive friendly, helpful advice throughout the sale of your home.
Technically speaking, a listing is an authority granted by you to a real estate broker to act as your agent in offering your property for sale or lease - according to the terms and conditions set out in the listing contract.
When you list your home with a real estate broker, you are entering into a binding agreement with that firm, so it is important to choose a company and a real estate salesperson that you are satisfied with. To find the right firm and individual, try interviewing three REALTORS® and ask them about the services they will offer when they list your home."
Full article courtesy of OMREB
Sunday, January 18, 2009
BC Home Sales Decline by One-Third in 2008
The following BCREA article shows the stark changes to the Okanagan Real Estate Market from December 2007 to December 2008. Although the statistics may not favour a Seller in today's market, they certainly do favour a Buyer. Interest rates continue to stay low and in doing so allow first time home buyers more advantage of getting into the marketplace.
Vancouver, BC – British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports residential sales dollar volume on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in BC declined 31 per cent to $31.3 billion in 2008, compared to 2007. Residential unit sales declined 33 per cent to 68,923 units last year, the lowest level since 2000, when 54,179 transactions were recorded. The average MLS® residential price in 2008 was $454,599, up 3.5 per cent from 2007.
“The housing market came in like a lion and went out like a lamb in 2008,” said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. “Home prices reached a record high in March, but edged lower during the balance of the year.” The average residential sales price hit $483,291 in March and ended the year at $429,210, an 11 per cent decline in nine months.
“The global financial crisis, a sharp correction in the equity markets and a recessionary environment in Canada has wreaked havoc on consumer confidence,” added Muir. “While it’s difficult to predict when consumer confidence will strengthen, home affordability is quietly improving as lower prices and mortgage interest rates increase the buying power of BC households."
December MLS® residential sales dollar volume in the province declined 52 per cent to $1.05 billion, compared to December 2007. Provincial MLS® sales were down 49 per cent to 2,456 units, while the average residential price declined 6 per cent to $429,210 over the same period.
Full article courtesy of BCREA
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Vancouver, BC – British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports residential sales dollar volume on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in BC declined 31 per cent to $31.3 billion in 2008, compared to 2007. Residential unit sales declined 33 per cent to 68,923 units last year, the lowest level since 2000, when 54,179 transactions were recorded. The average MLS® residential price in 2008 was $454,599, up 3.5 per cent from 2007.
“The housing market came in like a lion and went out like a lamb in 2008,” said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. “Home prices reached a record high in March, but edged lower during the balance of the year.” The average residential sales price hit $483,291 in March and ended the year at $429,210, an 11 per cent decline in nine months.
“The global financial crisis, a sharp correction in the equity markets and a recessionary environment in Canada has wreaked havoc on consumer confidence,” added Muir. “While it’s difficult to predict when consumer confidence will strengthen, home affordability is quietly improving as lower prices and mortgage interest rates increase the buying power of BC households."
December MLS® residential sales dollar volume in the province declined 52 per cent to $1.05 billion, compared to December 2007. Provincial MLS® sales were down 49 per cent to 2,456 units, while the average residential price declined 6 per cent to $429,210 over the same period.
Full article courtesy of BCREA
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Chattels and Fixtures: What are They?
Area Rug - Chattel
Bathroom Mirror - Fixture
If you are thinking of selling your home, you may be wondering whether you should take the custom-made window coverings with you, or whether that entertainment unit you had specially made for your family room should be sold with the house.
Undoubtedly, these items may be hard to part with. On the other hand, they will probably make your home much more attractive to potential purchasers if you include them in the sale. In fact, it is quite common for vendors to include some items that would normally be considered as "chattels" - such as drapes and appliances - in the sale of their homes as an extra incentive to buyers.
Simply stated, chattels are things that can be removed from a property because they are not attached to the walls or to the property. Fixtures, on the other hand, are things that are attached to the property - things like light sockets, a hot tub or electric wall heaters.
The law is not always crystal clear about what is considered a fixture but your REALTOR® will help you decide and clarify what you want to include in the sale of your home.
Full article courteousy of OMREB
Bathroom Mirror - Fixture
If you are thinking of selling your home, you may be wondering whether you should take the custom-made window coverings with you, or whether that entertainment unit you had specially made for your family room should be sold with the house.
Undoubtedly, these items may be hard to part with. On the other hand, they will probably make your home much more attractive to potential purchasers if you include them in the sale. In fact, it is quite common for vendors to include some items that would normally be considered as "chattels" - such as drapes and appliances - in the sale of their homes as an extra incentive to buyers.
Simply stated, chattels are things that can be removed from a property because they are not attached to the walls or to the property. Fixtures, on the other hand, are things that are attached to the property - things like light sockets, a hot tub or electric wall heaters.
The law is not always crystal clear about what is considered a fixture but your REALTOR® will help you decide and clarify what you want to include in the sale of your home.
Full article courteousy of OMREB
Monday, January 5, 2009
Candles and more candles
Some tips on how to keep your candles burning long and bright.
Make them burn longer. Pop candles into the fridge for a few hours before lighting them for the first time. It makes the wax harder so the candles last longer.
Give them a trim. Cut wicks down to the 1/4" before lighting your candles. A wick that it is too long makes flames too high and starts to produce dirty soot.
Look for the tear. Your flame should be teardrop shaped. If it's not, your candle isn't burning cleanly and is releasing smoke into the air. For a quick fix, trim the wick and check for any drafts disturbing the flame.
Keep a safe distance. Position candles at least three inches apart to prevent them from melting each other or causing drafts that can make them burn unevenly.
Wax on your tablecloth? Let it harden, then rub the cloth between your hands so most of it chips off. With a warm iron, press between paper towels to absorb the remaining wax.
This article was used with permission from Pillar to Post
Take care and happy waxing!
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Friday, January 2, 2009
Five uses for wax paper
Wax Paper Smart Uses
1. Water Spots. To prevent water spots, rub chrome fixtures with wax paper after cleaning them, then buff lightly. This will leave a thin coating that deflects water and helps stop smudges.
2. Shower Curtain. Rub a little wax paper on the bar and your shower curtain will glide with ease.
3. No-fuss Fridge. Forget struggling to wipe the top of your fridge. Cover it with wax paper! It will catch all the dirt that comes into contact with it. Then once a month replace it and no more dust or grim.
4. Can Opener Issues. Run a piece of wax paper through the gears. It will help to loosen dirt and coat the wheels do they will run more smoothly.
5. Re-cork Wine. Slip a cork back into an unfinished bottle of wine by wrapping wax paper around it for easy removal.
This article was used with permission from Pillar to Post
Take care and happy waxing!
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Sunday, November 9, 2008
What To Do When Things Go Wrong?!?
Working with a REALTOR® will go a long way to ensuring that the sale or purchase of your home will go smoothly. There are times, however, when even professional service goes awry and things are not as they should be. You may think the REALTOR® is at fault. What do you do?
The first step would be to talk to the REALTOR® and/or his or her Broker or Manager - this is the person to whom the salesperson reports and either owns or manages the office. Perhaps the problem is simply a misunderstanding that can be worked out by the parties involved or there may be steps the Broker can recommend to help resolve any impasse.
The second step you may consider is to contact your lawyer. Depending on what exactly has happened and what circumstances exist, your lawyer may be able to mediate things up or at the very least let you know what your choices are.
One choice you may not know about is the Business Practices Complaints Process managed by the local real estate board to which the REALTOR® belongs and how discussing the situation with someone in the Board office could assist you in resolving the problem.
Although rules vary from Board to Board to province to province, there are some basic rules by which all REALTORS® (that is, members of a local real estate board or provincial real estate association) must abide - they are known collectively as the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice.
The Board staff member who handles complaints from the public is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of real estate transactions, rules governing members, the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice and rules of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®). He or she will be able to tell you if you have the basis for making a complaint about the Member to the Board and direct you to information that will assist you in assessing the situation for yourself.
Should you feel that the salesperson or Broker you dealt with treated you unfairly or failed to do their job properly, you may write a letter of complaint to the real estate Board. They will investigate your complaint by contacting the salesperson and his or her Broker to get their side of the story. Once they have your complaint and their Member’s response to your complaint, they will decide if there should be a hearing to investigate further.
A hearing is simply a meeting of the people involved in your complaint - you and the REALTOR® you complained about - plus a hearing panel. The panel is made up of a group of real estate Brokers and/or salespeople who are Members of the organization to which you have sent your complaint. These members, like most others in the organization, have a real interest in ensuring Members perform their duties and offer their services according to the rules and regulations of the Board and the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice.
A hearing can have one of two outcomes: the complaint against the Member can be either dismissed or upheld. If the complaint is dismissed, it means that there was either no evidence or insufficient evidence of wrongdoing on the part of the salesperson and his or her Broker. If the complaint is upheld, it means that the hearing panel found enough evidence that the salesperson and/or Broker participated in wrongdoing; the panel then has the power to apply penalties to the salesperson and/or the broker.
Why make the complaint? There are a number of good reasons.
To begin, real estate Boards and the British Columbia Real Estate Association are very interested in having their Members act professionally and in accordance with provincial and real estate Board regulations and guidelines. Any time they are acting otherwise it reflects badly on the industry as a whole.
Secondly, if a member is participating in something they should not be, the Board and Association have an interest in ensuring that the member is made aware that his or her behaviour is unacceptable and that remedial action is taken.
Thirdly, if the REALTOR® has done something which has put you or your real estate transaction in jeopardy, but has done it unknowingly, it is in everyone’s interest that that REALTOR® learn the proper procedures.
It isn’t often that transactions go amiss because of the actions of a real estate salesperson, but when they do, it’s good to know there is somewhere you can go.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS® and REALTOR® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
The first step would be to talk to the REALTOR® and/or his or her Broker or Manager - this is the person to whom the salesperson reports and either owns or manages the office. Perhaps the problem is simply a misunderstanding that can be worked out by the parties involved or there may be steps the Broker can recommend to help resolve any impasse.
The second step you may consider is to contact your lawyer. Depending on what exactly has happened and what circumstances exist, your lawyer may be able to mediate things up or at the very least let you know what your choices are.
One choice you may not know about is the Business Practices Complaints Process managed by the local real estate board to which the REALTOR® belongs and how discussing the situation with someone in the Board office could assist you in resolving the problem.
Although rules vary from Board to Board to province to province, there are some basic rules by which all REALTORS® (that is, members of a local real estate board or provincial real estate association) must abide - they are known collectively as the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice.
The Board staff member who handles complaints from the public is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of real estate transactions, rules governing members, the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice and rules of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®). He or she will be able to tell you if you have the basis for making a complaint about the Member to the Board and direct you to information that will assist you in assessing the situation for yourself.
Should you feel that the salesperson or Broker you dealt with treated you unfairly or failed to do their job properly, you may write a letter of complaint to the real estate Board. They will investigate your complaint by contacting the salesperson and his or her Broker to get their side of the story. Once they have your complaint and their Member’s response to your complaint, they will decide if there should be a hearing to investigate further.
A hearing is simply a meeting of the people involved in your complaint - you and the REALTOR® you complained about - plus a hearing panel. The panel is made up of a group of real estate Brokers and/or salespeople who are Members of the organization to which you have sent your complaint. These members, like most others in the organization, have a real interest in ensuring Members perform their duties and offer their services according to the rules and regulations of the Board and the Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice.
A hearing can have one of two outcomes: the complaint against the Member can be either dismissed or upheld. If the complaint is dismissed, it means that there was either no evidence or insufficient evidence of wrongdoing on the part of the salesperson and his or her Broker. If the complaint is upheld, it means that the hearing panel found enough evidence that the salesperson and/or Broker participated in wrongdoing; the panel then has the power to apply penalties to the salesperson and/or the broker.
Why make the complaint? There are a number of good reasons.
To begin, real estate Boards and the British Columbia Real Estate Association are very interested in having their Members act professionally and in accordance with provincial and real estate Board regulations and guidelines. Any time they are acting otherwise it reflects badly on the industry as a whole.
Secondly, if a member is participating in something they should not be, the Board and Association have an interest in ensuring that the member is made aware that his or her behaviour is unacceptable and that remedial action is taken.
Thirdly, if the REALTOR® has done something which has put you or your real estate transaction in jeopardy, but has done it unknowingly, it is in everyone’s interest that that REALTOR® learn the proper procedures.
It isn’t often that transactions go amiss because of the actions of a real estate salesperson, but when they do, it’s good to know there is somewhere you can go.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS® and REALTOR® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Sunday, November 2, 2008
A Realtor ® is Your Best Ally When Purchasing a Home
A home is the single most important purchase you can make; it often represents years of planning, saving and dreaming. You simply can't afford to make a mistake when so much is at stake.
Most people will need expert help to make sure they make the right choice, and the expert you should turn to is a REALTOR®.
REALTORS® are professionals who know the real estate business inside and out. REALTORS® are licensed real estate salespeople who are also members of a local real estate board or association; as members of their association, they are bound by a professional code of ethics. REALTORS® also have direct access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) - a vast and comprehensive database of homes for sale used by millions across Canada. REALTORS® will guide you through the details of home buying. They know about current housing prices, mortgage rates, appreciation, schools, transit and just about anything else you need to know. In addition, they are adept at identifying other considerations that may affect your search: personal time constraints, finances and so forth.
In short, REALTORS® have at their disposal a wealth of information, experience and advice, and they can be your best ally.
The decision to choose a REALTOR® is almost as important as the decision to buy a home. Without his or her help, it is difficult - if not impossible - to sort through the thousands of properties on the market to find the one that suits your family and your future.
Once you have chosen a REALTOR® to work with you and the two of you have established the type of property you want and need, the REALTOR® will put together an initial list of homes for you to consider. For first-time buyers especially, a REALTORS® experience during this phase can be invaluable. He or she will streamline the hunt, helping narrow down the possibilities to those which best suit your requirements. As well, he or she will be familiar with the neighbourhoods and communities you may be considering and can offer helpful feedback.
Once you have picked out a property you would like to purchase, your REALTOR® will continue to assist you by helping you complete an Offer to Purchase and acting as a "go-between" between you and the vendor and their real estate salesperson.
Those who have used REALTORS® - the vast majority of homeowners - know the close-knit relationship that can develop from the thorough and often lengthy quest to find the perfect home. REALTORS® are accustomed to expending whatever time and effort is needed and frequently spend a great deal of time with their purchasers.
This relationship is precisely why many homebuyers insist on returning to the same REALTOR® when they are in a position to sell their home and buy another.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Most people will need expert help to make sure they make the right choice, and the expert you should turn to is a REALTOR®.
REALTORS® are professionals who know the real estate business inside and out. REALTORS® are licensed real estate salespeople who are also members of a local real estate board or association; as members of their association, they are bound by a professional code of ethics. REALTORS® also have direct access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) - a vast and comprehensive database of homes for sale used by millions across Canada. REALTORS® will guide you through the details of home buying. They know about current housing prices, mortgage rates, appreciation, schools, transit and just about anything else you need to know. In addition, they are adept at identifying other considerations that may affect your search: personal time constraints, finances and so forth.
In short, REALTORS® have at their disposal a wealth of information, experience and advice, and they can be your best ally.
The decision to choose a REALTOR® is almost as important as the decision to buy a home. Without his or her help, it is difficult - if not impossible - to sort through the thousands of properties on the market to find the one that suits your family and your future.
Once you have chosen a REALTOR® to work with you and the two of you have established the type of property you want and need, the REALTOR® will put together an initial list of homes for you to consider. For first-time buyers especially, a REALTORS® experience during this phase can be invaluable. He or she will streamline the hunt, helping narrow down the possibilities to those which best suit your requirements. As well, he or she will be familiar with the neighbourhoods and communities you may be considering and can offer helpful feedback.
Once you have picked out a property you would like to purchase, your REALTOR® will continue to assist you by helping you complete an Offer to Purchase and acting as a "go-between" between you and the vendor and their real estate salesperson.
Those who have used REALTORS® - the vast majority of homeowners - know the close-knit relationship that can develop from the thorough and often lengthy quest to find the perfect home. REALTORS® are accustomed to expending whatever time and effort is needed and frequently spend a great deal of time with their purchasers.
This relationship is precisely why many homebuyers insist on returning to the same REALTOR® when they are in a position to sell their home and buy another.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Using a REALTOR® to Sell Your Home Makes Good Sense
Selling a home is no small venture. Whether you are selling to move up, move down, move away or for some other reason, you want the process to be relatively fast and painless. You also want to make as much money as possible.
Like fixing a car, some people will be tempted to do the job themselves, reasoning that they can "pocket" the real estate commission. But for most, this is a false economy that makes no more sense than trying to rebuild a car's transmission without the knowledge, training, experience or time needed to do the job properly.
Saving the real estate commission is not a true bargain because most buyers will expect a "bargain" when they see a For Sale by Owner sign. They will offer less than fair market value and the owner will be forced to negotiate upward to realize a small part of the anticipated commission savings. The do-it-yourselfer will also have to factor in the considerable amount of time and expense required to market the property, respond to enquiry phone calls, show their own property and fill out all the legal paperwork.
Selling your home is a complex procedure that involves large sums of money, stringent legal requirements and has the potential for very costly mistakes. That's why there are plenty of experienced real estate professionals to help you make the best sale possible. A REALTOR® has the qualifications, experience and commitment needed to do the work for you.
By REALTOR®, we mean a licensed real estate professional who is a member of a local real estate board - where there is one - and is also a member of the British Columbia Real Estate Association and the Canadian Real Estate Association. When you work with a REALTOR®, you can expect that person to adhere not only to provincial law governing the real estate industry, but also to a national code of ethics.
In addition to following up on details promptly and accurately, a REALTOR® is an expert in effectively marketing your home. Moreover, when you work with a REALTOR® your home will receive far-reaching market exposure through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®). And the more exposure your home gets, the more likely you are to find a buyer willing to pay "your price".
Once you've made the decision to sell and have gone through the process of selecting a REALTOR®, you can depend on their support every step of the way. Here are some of the ways your REALTOR® can provide you with sound, effective counseling and professional service:
Under the Listing Agreement with you, a REALTOR® is responsible for looking after your best interests, including full disclosure of any information that may influence your decisions, as well as complete confidentiality.
You will receive a full explanation of the selling process and what to expect from the beginning, as well as answers to all your questions along the way. This will increase your confidence as you move towards a successful sale.
The REALTOR® will assess your home, it's best features and what will help it sell most quickly. He or she will help you establish a selling price that will appeal to buyers interested in your type of home.
You will receive advice on how to make your home look its very best. A REALTOR® is experienced in providing tips on ways to make your home sparkle without going to great expense.
A marketing plan for your home will be developed to help it sell quickly and effectively. This plan may include the MLS® listing, open houses, advertising in newspapers and other media.
The REALTOR® will also attempt to separate the lookers from the buyers - known as "pre-qualifying". This can be a real time saver because it helps ensure that only serious buyers visit your home.
When you receive an offer, the REALTOR® will have the knowledge and experience to negotiate an agreement on your behalf and according to your instructions. She or he will act as a mediator between you and the buyer and head off any potential conflicts.
If you decide to accept the offer, the REALTOR® will participate in drawing up a legally-binding contract that protects your interests throughout the transaction.
Once a legally-binding agreement has been signed, the REALTOR® will help you make sure the proper documentation is finalized and sent to the lawyers, that any conditions to the offer are fulfilled and that your questions and concerns are dealt with to your satisfaction.
Doesn't it make sense to use a professional?
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Like fixing a car, some people will be tempted to do the job themselves, reasoning that they can "pocket" the real estate commission. But for most, this is a false economy that makes no more sense than trying to rebuild a car's transmission without the knowledge, training, experience or time needed to do the job properly.
Saving the real estate commission is not a true bargain because most buyers will expect a "bargain" when they see a For Sale by Owner sign. They will offer less than fair market value and the owner will be forced to negotiate upward to realize a small part of the anticipated commission savings. The do-it-yourselfer will also have to factor in the considerable amount of time and expense required to market the property, respond to enquiry phone calls, show their own property and fill out all the legal paperwork.
Selling your home is a complex procedure that involves large sums of money, stringent legal requirements and has the potential for very costly mistakes. That's why there are plenty of experienced real estate professionals to help you make the best sale possible. A REALTOR® has the qualifications, experience and commitment needed to do the work for you.
By REALTOR®, we mean a licensed real estate professional who is a member of a local real estate board - where there is one - and is also a member of the British Columbia Real Estate Association and the Canadian Real Estate Association. When you work with a REALTOR®, you can expect that person to adhere not only to provincial law governing the real estate industry, but also to a national code of ethics.
In addition to following up on details promptly and accurately, a REALTOR® is an expert in effectively marketing your home. Moreover, when you work with a REALTOR® your home will receive far-reaching market exposure through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®). And the more exposure your home gets, the more likely you are to find a buyer willing to pay "your price".
Once you've made the decision to sell and have gone through the process of selecting a REALTOR®, you can depend on their support every step of the way. Here are some of the ways your REALTOR® can provide you with sound, effective counseling and professional service:
Under the Listing Agreement with you, a REALTOR® is responsible for looking after your best interests, including full disclosure of any information that may influence your decisions, as well as complete confidentiality.
You will receive a full explanation of the selling process and what to expect from the beginning, as well as answers to all your questions along the way. This will increase your confidence as you move towards a successful sale.
The REALTOR® will assess your home, it's best features and what will help it sell most quickly. He or she will help you establish a selling price that will appeal to buyers interested in your type of home.
You will receive advice on how to make your home look its very best. A REALTOR® is experienced in providing tips on ways to make your home sparkle without going to great expense.
A marketing plan for your home will be developed to help it sell quickly and effectively. This plan may include the MLS® listing, open houses, advertising in newspapers and other media.
The REALTOR® will also attempt to separate the lookers from the buyers - known as "pre-qualifying". This can be a real time saver because it helps ensure that only serious buyers visit your home.
When you receive an offer, the REALTOR® will have the knowledge and experience to negotiate an agreement on your behalf and according to your instructions. She or he will act as a mediator between you and the buyer and head off any potential conflicts.
If you decide to accept the offer, the REALTOR® will participate in drawing up a legally-binding contract that protects your interests throughout the transaction.
Once a legally-binding agreement has been signed, the REALTOR® will help you make sure the proper documentation is finalized and sent to the lawyers, that any conditions to the offer are fulfilled and that your questions and concerns are dealt with to your satisfaction.
Doesn't it make sense to use a professional?
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Bring in the "Local Expert"
Buying or selling a home is a complicated business transaction. It's not a purchase or sale you want to regret. So take the time to select in advance an experienced team of experts you can trust. The expertise you need will include the services of a REALTOR®, and may also include a lender, a lawyer, a home inspector and an insurance broker. By involving these individuals at the right time, you can ensure that everything goes smoothly and that you don't pay a big personal and financial penalty.
Whether selling or buying, selecting a REALTOR® to act on your behalf has many distinct advantages. As a professional in the field of real estate, a REALTOR® has skills, knowledge and experience that most buyers and sellers don't have. In British Columbia, only real estate professionals who are members of the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) can call themselves REALTORS®. When you enlist the services of a REALTOR®, you are asked to sign an agency agreement which legally obliges him or her to look after your best interests as a buyer or seller. A REALTOR® will not only adhere to provincial laws, but to a code of ethics that assures you will receive only the highest level of service, honesty and integrity.
Knowing that a REALTOR® is working for you and acting as your advocate during a real estate transaction will help you get the best deal possible. Before selecting a REALTOR®, interview several who are familiar with the area you want to buy or sell in.
Ask about their track record, their knowledge of the neighbourhood, selling or buying prices in the surrounding area and how they will handle a sale or purchase on your behalf. Also be sure to discuss the REALTORS® commission or fees.
Bringing in other experts:
If you are selling ...
To help you decide on an asking price, your REALTOR® will analyze your home and compare it with similar houses for sale or recently sold in the area. The price you decide on will be based primarily on the home's fair market value. But your decision will also be affected by the strength and trend of the real estate market, interest rates and consumer demand for your type of property.
Your REALTOR® will then develop a marketing plan that may include open houses, advertising and listing options. He or she will also provide you with tips to make your home "show" better to prospective buyers. Once your home has been "listed", it is wise to have a lawyer or notary standing by to help ensure your rights and interests are fully protected and to complete the sale successfully when you find a buyer.
Select a legal professional you have used before for real estate transactions, or someone who is recommended by people you know and trust. Your REALTOR® can give you the names of several to contact, but he or she cannot recommend or endorse anyone specific. Be sure to ask about their fees and do shop around.
If you are buying ...
When buying a home, your REALTOR® will assess your needs, wants and overall budget and help you identify what you can afford.
Once you've decided on the kind of home and neighbourhood you want and how much you can afford, select a legal professional to stand-by. The Offer to Purchase and other related documents can be complex. When you are purchasing property, it is important to have a legal professional to act in your best interests.
Most home buyers lack the funds needed to buy a home without assistance from a bank or other financial institution. If you are buying a home and need to borrow money, your REALTOR® can help you evaluate mortgage options and obtain financing at the best available rates and terms.
When deciding on which financial institution to deal with, start with your own bank, credit union or trust company - people who already know you. But ,with so many options and rates to choose from these days, it pays to shop around. Your REALTOR® will be able to help you understand your options better.
Insurance on the home you buy is almost always required by mortgage lenders and must be in place before any purchase can be finalized. To select an insurance broker, you may want to consider the same broker you use for other insurance needs, or you can shop around for the best rates. Be sure that the insurance you get covers all your needs.
As a new homeowner, you want to avoid any expensive surprises. One way is to bring in a home inspector as a condition of your offer to purchase, or even before you put in an offer. Having the home you plan to buy inspected will make you aware of any serious problems and help you decide if you want to buy the property for the price you are considering, or at all.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Whether selling or buying, selecting a REALTOR® to act on your behalf has many distinct advantages. As a professional in the field of real estate, a REALTOR® has skills, knowledge and experience that most buyers and sellers don't have. In British Columbia, only real estate professionals who are members of the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) can call themselves REALTORS®. When you enlist the services of a REALTOR®, you are asked to sign an agency agreement which legally obliges him or her to look after your best interests as a buyer or seller. A REALTOR® will not only adhere to provincial laws, but to a code of ethics that assures you will receive only the highest level of service, honesty and integrity.
Knowing that a REALTOR® is working for you and acting as your advocate during a real estate transaction will help you get the best deal possible. Before selecting a REALTOR®, interview several who are familiar with the area you want to buy or sell in.
Ask about their track record, their knowledge of the neighbourhood, selling or buying prices in the surrounding area and how they will handle a sale or purchase on your behalf. Also be sure to discuss the REALTORS® commission or fees.
Bringing in other experts:
If you are selling ...
To help you decide on an asking price, your REALTOR® will analyze your home and compare it with similar houses for sale or recently sold in the area. The price you decide on will be based primarily on the home's fair market value. But your decision will also be affected by the strength and trend of the real estate market, interest rates and consumer demand for your type of property.
Your REALTOR® will then develop a marketing plan that may include open houses, advertising and listing options. He or she will also provide you with tips to make your home "show" better to prospective buyers. Once your home has been "listed", it is wise to have a lawyer or notary standing by to help ensure your rights and interests are fully protected and to complete the sale successfully when you find a buyer.
Select a legal professional you have used before for real estate transactions, or someone who is recommended by people you know and trust. Your REALTOR® can give you the names of several to contact, but he or she cannot recommend or endorse anyone specific. Be sure to ask about their fees and do shop around.
If you are buying ...
When buying a home, your REALTOR® will assess your needs, wants and overall budget and help you identify what you can afford.
Once you've decided on the kind of home and neighbourhood you want and how much you can afford, select a legal professional to stand-by. The Offer to Purchase and other related documents can be complex. When you are purchasing property, it is important to have a legal professional to act in your best interests.
Most home buyers lack the funds needed to buy a home without assistance from a bank or other financial institution. If you are buying a home and need to borrow money, your REALTOR® can help you evaluate mortgage options and obtain financing at the best available rates and terms.
When deciding on which financial institution to deal with, start with your own bank, credit union or trust company - people who already know you. But ,with so many options and rates to choose from these days, it pays to shop around. Your REALTOR® will be able to help you understand your options better.
Insurance on the home you buy is almost always required by mortgage lenders and must be in place before any purchase can be finalized. To select an insurance broker, you may want to consider the same broker you use for other insurance needs, or you can shop around for the best rates. Be sure that the insurance you get covers all your needs.
As a new homeowner, you want to avoid any expensive surprises. One way is to bring in a home inspector as a condition of your offer to purchase, or even before you put in an offer. Having the home you plan to buy inspected will make you aware of any serious problems and help you decide if you want to buy the property for the price you are considering, or at all.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courtesy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Use a REALTOR® or Go It Alone?
Do you really need a REALTOR® when you sell your home, or can you do it yourself? Selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions most of us will ever make. REALTOR®S have the qualifications and experience to help make that transaction as smooth and painless as possible. Handling a real estate transaction on your own can be like trying to repair your own car; you may have all the right parts and tools, but unless you have the skill of a professional, you may end up making a very costly mistake. Most people who buy and sell their homes do enlist the services of a REALTOR®. Those who go the "do it yourself' route often wind up changing their minds and contacting a REALTOR® when they discover the process is more complex, time-consuming and intimidating than they thought.
Saving money?
The main reason people attempt to sell their own homes is to save on the real estate commission. But will you really save money if you sell your home yourself? Maybe not. Most buyers expect a discount from the Seller because you aren't paying a real estate commission and, as a result, may offer you less than fair market value for your home. Determining the fair market value is one area requiring a REALTORS® extensive knowledge and training. If you set your price too high, you may frighten off potential buyers; set it too low and you could lose thousands of dollars needlessly. One of your REALTORS® most important tasks will be to help you decide upon a realistic market value for your home; one that will enable you to sell it quickly and for the best possible price.
Getting exposure
Through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®), your REALTOR® will ensure your home gets maximum exposure to other REALTORS® and their potential buyers. This is just one of the many ways a REALTOR® will market your home. He or she may also advertise in newspapers, on television and/or on the Internet. Your marketing plan may also include open houses just for other REALTORS® and also for the public. A REALTOR® will work with you to develop a marketing plan that meets your needs.
Time commitment
Do you really have the time it takes to sell your home? A REALTOR® will write and pay for the ads to market your home, remain available day and night for calls from prospects, host open houses on the weekends, show your property on short notice, screen potential buyers, fill out all the paperwork, handle the negotiations and do the dozens of other things required to sell a home. When you consider the amount of time invested, are you really saving any money by going it alone?
Negotiating skills
Many homeowners lack the skill to negotiate the best price for their home. Selling your home can be a highly emotional experience, making it almost impossible to remain neutral when potential buyers make negative comments about the property. A REALTOR® is a skilled negotiator who can remain impartial during the negotiations - a job that allows you to keep your stress levels to a minimum.
Use a REALTOR® to sell your home
When you consider all the services they provide - marketing, negotiating, dealing with contracts and legal issues - it pays to have a REALTOR® on your side. Working with a REALTOR® - a licensed real estate professional who is a member of his or her local real estate Board and the British Columbia Real Estate Association - entitles you to access a vast array of services and benefits you will not get when you "do it yourself'.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courteousy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Saving money?
The main reason people attempt to sell their own homes is to save on the real estate commission. But will you really save money if you sell your home yourself? Maybe not. Most buyers expect a discount from the Seller because you aren't paying a real estate commission and, as a result, may offer you less than fair market value for your home. Determining the fair market value is one area requiring a REALTORS® extensive knowledge and training. If you set your price too high, you may frighten off potential buyers; set it too low and you could lose thousands of dollars needlessly. One of your REALTORS® most important tasks will be to help you decide upon a realistic market value for your home; one that will enable you to sell it quickly and for the best possible price.
Getting exposure
Through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®), your REALTOR® will ensure your home gets maximum exposure to other REALTORS® and their potential buyers. This is just one of the many ways a REALTOR® will market your home. He or she may also advertise in newspapers, on television and/or on the Internet. Your marketing plan may also include open houses just for other REALTORS® and also for the public. A REALTOR® will work with you to develop a marketing plan that meets your needs.
Time commitment
Do you really have the time it takes to sell your home? A REALTOR® will write and pay for the ads to market your home, remain available day and night for calls from prospects, host open houses on the weekends, show your property on short notice, screen potential buyers, fill out all the paperwork, handle the negotiations and do the dozens of other things required to sell a home. When you consider the amount of time invested, are you really saving any money by going it alone?
Negotiating skills
Many homeowners lack the skill to negotiate the best price for their home. Selling your home can be a highly emotional experience, making it almost impossible to remain neutral when potential buyers make negative comments about the property. A REALTOR® is a skilled negotiator who can remain impartial during the negotiations - a job that allows you to keep your stress levels to a minimum.
Use a REALTOR® to sell your home
When you consider all the services they provide - marketing, negotiating, dealing with contracts and legal issues - it pays to have a REALTOR® on your side. Working with a REALTOR® - a licensed real estate professional who is a member of his or her local real estate Board and the British Columbia Real Estate Association - entitles you to access a vast array of services and benefits you will not get when you "do it yourself'.
Multiple Listing Service, MLS®, REALTOR® and REALTORS® are registered trademarks of the Canadian Real Estate Association. REALTOR® identifies a real estate practitioner who is a member of the Association.
Article courteousy of OMREB
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
The Zero Money down 40 year Amortization Mortgages run out effective October 15,2008.
In an effort to protect and strengthen the Canadian housing market, the Governement of Canada has put a deadline on 40 year amortized mortgages. As of October 15,2008 it will a little more difficult for first time buyers to qualify for larger mortgages. It would be a massive understatement to suggest that this measure is being taken to avoid a similar crisis as the US real estate market is currently experiencing. Thankfully, our government recognizes the dangers of making high-ratio financing for buyers today. The following blog post I found on BCMortgage.ca explains in greater detail all the changes being made to the mortgage industry in general by October 15,2008. My hope would be that first time buyers that truly require this type of this mortgage product will do so while they still can.
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Snow has begun to fall at Big White Ski Resort!
Yes, it's true! I just got off the phone with a friend that lives at the resort. It wouldappear that a very early snow fall has begun. Perhaps, we could all be hitting the ski slopes by Halloween. Big White has not updated their site yet for the snowfall, I would imagine it will take more than a few centimetres before they report it!
With summer all but gone, let's get ready for some wonderful "champagne powder" riding!
Sincerely,
Jason Neumann
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