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There was a time in Regina, not that long ago, when your real estate options were simply house or condo?  Now with a growing Saskatchewan economy and expanding population base, as well as the higher costs of housing we are seeing more diversity in residential projects being developed to meet the needs of affordable housing in Regina. 


We are hearing terms like laneway suites and full regulation suites which not only provide affordable rental housing options but also help new home buyers offset the costs of their mortgage.  There was an interesting article on the pilot projects for laneway suites in Regina’s Leader Post last week:

http://www.leaderpost.com/business/City+greenlights+laneway+suite+pilot+project/9674709/story.html


We are hearing about new concepts in urban design with pedestrian friendly streets, which translated means that instead of larger lots with attached garages, single family and semi-detached homes are being built on smaller lots, maximizing space, with the detached garages at the rear or the option to add one as budget allows. Either way it provides a more affordable option in a new home purchase. The Greens on Gardiner (SW) was the leader in this type of residential concept in Regina but now those options are available in Hawkstone(NW) and Harbour Landing(SE) as well and are being provided by a number of builders.  We are now seeing many interesting options in entry level properties, in homes, semi-detached homes, townhouses and apartment condos, so it’s a great time to get into the market of property ownership in Regina!


With so many choices available it can be a bit overwhelming so you need to start with your budget and requirements and then narrow down the possibilities.  We have lots of experience and knowledge about the new projects and their building partners so we can help you find you the right match for your needs!


Not sure how to navigate all of your options?  We’re here to help!  If you are looking to make a move give us a call and check us out at www.w2realtyteam.com


Happy Home Shopping!


Karin & Jen

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Of course every seller wants their home to sell quickly and for the highest price possible, so how do you give yourself the best shot at that? We believe that from our perspective proper pricing is the most important aspect but also preparing your home so that it makes the best first impression on potential  buyers is a very close second and is directly related to your ultimate selling price!  So where to start? Here is a list of things to consider and we would suggest giving yourself a specific timeline to work with and get it done!

  1. De-Personalize
    You want people to see themselves creating a life in your house and making it their home so you will want to pack up those personal photographs and family heirlooms.  Some buyers can't see past personal artifacts, and you don't want them to be distracted by your “things”.  You want people saying “I can see myself living here” rather than “I wonder who lives here”.
  2. De-Clutter!
    Now is the time to eliminate anything you don’t need and don’t want to move with you!  Likely anything you haven’t used in a year can be donated or disposed of.  You may need to enlist the help of a friend who can help you be objective about your “stuff”.  Think of this as getting a head start on the packing up process that you will need to do eventually anyway!
  • Remove or at least edit books and art pieces.
  • Pack up those knickknacks.
  • Clean off kitchen counters….you want buyers to see loads of counter space!
  • Put the necessary items that are used daily in a container that can be stored in a closet or pantry where they can be accessed easily.
  • Try going around your home and taking photos and then looking at your rooms through the lens of the camera.  It is amazing how we just get used to our spaces and not see what is sitting on tables, counters etc. and how that may appear to potential buyers.

   3. Neaten Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets. 


  • Buyers will open closet and cabinet doors in the process of viewing your home, so open those doors and see what they will potentially see!  Closets and cabinets that are organized give the illusion of space. And a neat, well organized home sends a message that you care for your home.  Edit, edit, edit!

   4.  Rent a Storage Unit If Necessary 


  • Almost every home shows better with less furniture. If you have pieces that are blocking pathways or making rooms look smaller, put them in storage. The same goes for your garage….if you have a double garage but there is only room to park one car because of the stuff being stored in it you may want to consider an intervention there as well!
   5. Make Minor Repairs

       If the small details are maintained it is assumed that the major things have

       been as well so now is the time to catch up on the little nitpicky projects you

       have been meaning to get to……

  • Patch holes in walls and touch up paint… or if necessary consider a fresh coat of neutral paint that will have the broadest appeal to potential buyers
  • Fix or replace leaky faucets
  • Replace burned out light bulbs
 

 The final details!  Now is the time for the “spring cleaning” items…..

  • Wash windows inside and out.
  • Polish chrome faucets and mirrors
  • Make sure your bathrooms are squeaky clean & hang fresh towels
  • Clean out the refrigerator!!
  • Dust off those ceiling fan blades and light fixtures.
  • Make sure your house is clean and smells great before showings!! You only get one shot at a first impression J   
  • Curb appeal counts as well so make sure the yard is clean and lawn cut and adding a welcoming pot of bright flowers at the front door is a nice touch as well!


We know it sounds like a lot but if you take a few weeks and tackle one area at a time it will net you a benefit in the

final sale of your home!


Happy Home Selling!


Jen & Karin

 

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We are often asked questions regarding the processes of buying or selling your home so we wanted to share just a few of the most common:


1. What does a home inspection involve and should I have one?


A home inspection is a visual examination of the property to determine the overall condition of the home. In the process, the inspector should be checking all major components (roof, ceiling, walls, floors, foundations, attics, etc.) and systems (electrical, heating, plumbing, drainage, exterior weather proofing, etc.). The results of the inspection are provided to the purchaser in written form and are generally discussed in detail during a walk through once the inspection is completed.


The inspection may indicate only minor issues for you to address at some point or that the home needs major structural repairs which need to be factored into your buying decision and comfort level.  A pre-purchase home inspection helps you learn more about the property up front so you can proceed with greater confidence and peace of mind.


 

2. What is a pre-approved mortgage and should we have preapproval before we start looking for a home?

        

A pre-approved mortgage provides a set interest rate guarantee from a lender for a specified period of time and for a set amount of money. Your mortgage broker will help you determine what you can afford to pay for a home and explain the down payment requirements.  When you find the right house and it comes time to make an offer, you will be prepared to act. Keep in mind your pre-approval is based on your financial picture at that time and any significant changes in your life can affect that number.


Most REALTORS® will ask if you have a mortgage pre-approval in place before you start your search for a home. This is to ensure that they are showing you properties in your price range. You never want to fall in love with a house only to find that it does not fit within your budget. Pre-approval is one of the first steps you should take before beginning the buying process so you can shop with confidence!


3. How do I prepare to sell my home?      

  

The first step is being really ready to move on.  You need to detach yourself emotionally from your home and see it as a commodity you want to sell.  We know this can be difficult when your life is reflected in your home, however it is important to be honest about how your home looks and how it should look when it goes on the market.

Your home’s appearance and condition play a big role in the sale process more today than ever. With the internet and all of home renovation programs people have easy access to, it can set high buyer expectations.  Many buyers want a home they can move right into, especially if they are under short time constraints.


Selling price is determined by a number of factors including previous sales of comparable houses, how many other homes similar to yours are currently on the market, and the condition of your home compared to your competition. Some of these factors are out of your control but you can control how your home looks when it hits the market. You only get one shot at a first impression so now is a great time to

de-clutter and touch up that paint!  


When you decide to work with an agent you should choose someone you feel comfortable with and trust to have your best interests at heart.  We can answer your questions and concerns and provide referrals for staging, mortgage brokers, home inspectors, real estate attorneys, and pretty much anything else you may need in the purchase or sale of your home! We are your advocate and guide through the process.   

Happy House Shopping!!

Karin & Jen

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