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If you’re buying a house and trying to decide if you should have a home inspection done, we can make it really easy for you – the short answer is YES….in almost every single situation.


In some cases, a buyer will forgo a home inspection in order to make their offer more appealing to the seller, but that is a big gamble. You might get the house, but you might also end up with unexpected costly issues to deal with.


When you don’t have a home inspection you’re relying on the seller to disclose everything that may be wrong with the house and that’s risky because some sellers just won’t do it, while others genuinely may not know. 


Having an impartial expert come in and evaluate the house is the best way to get an honest, informed opinion.


And having said that, getting a home inspection is not a guarantee that you’ll uncover every single problem. 



1.  What a Home Inspection IS:

When you request a home inspection as a buyer, there are 3 things you’re hoping to accomplish:

  1. Identify any major problems with the house and get an idea of what’s involved in remedying those major issues. In all likelihood you are not buying a new house…..you’re buying a house that may have been built a half century ago and renovated periodically over time. Very few homes are in perfect condition and you need to know what to anticipate in the future.
  2. This is an introduction to your future home so that you know how to maintain it. If you’re a First Time Home Buyer this will be especially important for you – owning a house can be a lot of work and properly maintaining it is the best way to protect your investment.  
  3. One of the biggest benefits of a home inspection is that it prepares you for the house – what needs to be fixed immediately, in 2 years, in 5 years, etc. Most home inspectors spend the time to give you important maintenance tips (like telling you where the water main shut off valve is located). Your home inspector will provide you a written summary of their inspection & a guide full of useful information about caring for your home. 

2.  What a Home Inspection IS NOT:

Home inspectors conduct visual inspections – they don’t look behind the walls and under the floors (and yes, sometimes strange things are happening there). They are generally specialists in all areas and often recommend further inspections, when they suspect there could other issues. Home inspectors are not generally looking for compliance with the building codes beyond obvious things like electrical or proper railings, etc. 




The Home Inspection Process

A home inspection for most houses takes about 3 hours, depending on the size, age and condition of the home.  The inspector will go through the house on their own, room by room ,and look for major issues; they will also assess the attic, the roof and the home’s exterior too. They’ll take photos along the way which will form part of the written report you will receive after the inspection.


What Happens if you Uncover Some issues?

Sometimes, home inspections uncover unexpected stuff – for example, shingles that needs replacing, electrical wiring that needs to updated or a sewer line that requires cleaning. …or worse occasionally. You may need to decide if you want to take on the major fixes or walk away from the house. And we may need to revisit the price accepted on your offer. In most cases, the big issues are already known and have been factored into the asking price, but in some situations, you may need to go back to the Seller and re-negotiate the price based on what you now know. Although a home inspection should not be used as a tool for renegotiating price or to nickel and dime the little stuff that you uncover.  

As REALTORS®, our job his to help you navigate that process! 


Just a final note on the process! Home inspection companies will generally require homebuyers to sign a waiver of liability, in their standard contracts, clearly indicating the limitations of the inspection. If something is missed, generally the only remedy is a refund of the cost of the inspection. 


We work regularly with a number of great qualified home inspectors in Regina and can refer you to one that is right for you! 

Here is a list of certified home inspectors in the YQR area:

INTERNACHI Certified Home Inspectors


Of course if you have any questions about the process of buying a home, feel free to reach out to us.  We’re here to help! 


~ Karin & Jen


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Questions about the YQR market? Here’s what you need to know now!


Mounting job losses and concern about how a COVID-19 world is going to affect the economy has many wondering if property values will drop – along with their net worth. 


It is reasonable to assume that demand for homes may be reduced in the short term as buyers are concerned about their employment status and financial stability, although there is also a segment of buyers whose jobs are secure and salaries are protected so their plans to move forward with a purchase are relatively unchanged.  


We are still seeing activity in the Regina from both buyers & sellers although fo rthe most part those sales & purchases are necessary rather than discretionary. 


So what will the effects of all of this really be? That is still yet to be determined and we will be watching and updating you with market activity and stats. 


One thing we can count on is that the housing sector likely won’t see the typical spring bounce we would normally expect.


So what does this all mean to you?  As a homeowner... or as a buyer, what should you be doing now?


  • First of all, Don't Panic. Like any asset, the only time you should be concerned about the current valuation of your home is if you want to sell it. 


  • If you are considering buying a property in the near future & are employed you can start the process of mortgage pre-approval and get a budget set out for your house hunting process. Once that is done you are set to hit ground running! 


  • If you are looking to purchase new or to refinance your current property, ask your employer for verification of your job status. Lenders are more likely to support your situation in both a future purchase and also in discussing refinancing options, if they know that a steady stream of income is expected. 

Lenders are busy working as homeowners explore financial options to offer themselves some breathing room during this period of uncertainty.  


These are stressful times, and managing your financial situation comes down to what is right for you. There’s no one solution for all, so explore your options. 


If you have questions about the market and how it will you affect you specifically, we are here to help!   Feel free to reach out at  info@w2realtyteam.com




Stay safe & healthy!


~ Karin & Jen 

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Here’s What You Can Do Now! 


Whether your plan was to buy your first home or sell your old one, those plans will have been put on hold by coronavirus unless it’s a necessary move, leaving you with the feeling that there’s nothing you can do except sit and wait…


However, now that you have time on your hands you can take some practical steps now that will save time and give you a jump on the process when life returns to something closer to normal — and when your time to tackle those projects is once again in short supply.



Top tips for buyers:


1. Go Virtual

You may not be able to easily view homes physically right now but an online search is valuable research! 

Most listings have great professional photos or video tours that will allow to view the home virtually to decide whether it is a possibility or an absolute No! 

Check out our App where you can browse properties and mark & save your favourites ….and we can see what you’re liking as well so we can also send you recommendations based on your favourites! 


2. Prepare your mortgage pre-approval

Your mortgage broker can help you virtually to get your pre-approval done now and get your mortgage rate locked in for 120 days ….so when things normalize you are ready to hit the ground running! 




Top tips for sellers:


1. Finish any DIY jobs

Home improvement stores like Home Depot are still open so you can pick up supplies for those small projects that you can tackle now like: 

Replace broken tiles or touching up grout, paint touch-ups, touch-up watermarks on ceilings, fix or replace that leaky tap, replace bath & shower caulking, etc. 


2. Neaten up your Yard

Once the weather warms up a bit you can start cleaning up your shed, garage, and those pots that didn’t all quite get cleaned up before the snow fell last year! 


Box up or bin the contents of the garage or garden shed so you can get a jump on that process before you get your hime on the market. 


3. Tackle those exterior projects

First impressions count and an easy way to amp up curb appeal is to give your front door a fresh coat of paint. When weather permits take on those exterior tasks including:

clearing your eaves, cleaning your windows(by the way there are window cleaning companies still working), and spray down your driveway to remove all of that winter dust & dirt. 


Those projects all take time  — and right now that’s the one you thing have more of!  


We’re here to help you and answer any questions you may have about the market and how that may affect you whether you are buying or selling.  


So feel free to reach out …we’re happy to help! 



~ Karin & Jen 

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We know you’re out walking Fido more often than ever right now and that means dodging puddles and coming home with wet or muddy feet...both of you perhaps! Wink

And then there’s just the normal doggy self-care required occasionally to get that pup looking & smelling great! 


So if you’re thinking about adding a pet wash station to your home renovation or new home design, check out these 5 great design tips! 


PS  Double Duty - you can use a pet wash station for cleaning dirty golf clubs, gardening tools and even the kids after a busy day of playing in puddles too!  Win win! 



  • Incorporate the washing station into the mudroom. Mudrooms are a very popular spot for dog wash stations. You normally enter the house from the back or side door, so their muddy paws never have to make it into the rest of the house.


  • Include a handheld shower or sprayer. Not only will it help you get your dog's entire body nice and clean, but it will also let you to do a quick paws-only wash.


  • Be prepared for the big shake. Anyone who has ever washed dogs knows that afterward they shake off the water with enthusiasm and get the entire area wet (including the person doing the washing). Having a tile surround and floor that can stand up to water will keep the big shake from damaging drywall and floors. If your dog is the type that runs around the house in crazy circles after a bath, we recommend having a door that you can close on your laundry or mudroom until Sparky finishes the big shake! Having towel storage handy is also a great idea! 


  • Go bigger with the drain. A 3-inch drain is recommended in a pet washing station. It will handle dog hair better than the standard 1½- to 2-inch shower drain. Having a hair filter over the drain is also a great idea! 


  • Consider an elevated dog bath for smaller pets. It will be easier on your back and knees in the long run, as long as your dog is willing and able to jump into it, or you don't have a problem lifting your pet into place.

We have great working reltionships with local renovation teams & custom home builders in Regina, so don't hesitate to reach out if you are looking for a referral for your next project or build! 




As always stay safe & well!  


~ Karin & Jen 

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We know you’re out walking Fido more often than ever right now and that means dodging puddles and coming home with wet or muddy feet...both of you perhaps! Wink

And then there’s just the normal doggy self-care required occasionally to get that pup looking & smelling great! 


So if you’re thinking about adding a pet wash station to your home renovation or new home design, check out these 5 great design tips! 


PS  Double Duty - you can use a pet wash station for cleaning dirty golf clubs, gardening tools and even the kids after a busy day of playing in puddles too!  Win win! 



  • Incorporate the washing station into the mudroom. Mudrooms are a very popular spot for dog wash stations. You normally enter the house from the back or side door, so their muddy paws never have to make it into the rest of the house.


  • Include a handheld shower or sprayer. Not only will it help you get your dog's entire body nice and clean, but it will also let you to do a quick paws-only wash.


  • Be prepared for the big shake. Anyone who has ever washed dogs knows that afterward they shake off the water with enthusiasm and get the entire area wet (including the person doing the washing). Having a tile surround and floor that can stand up to water will keep the big shake from damaging drywall and floors. If your dog is the type that runs around the house in crazy circles after a bath, we recommend having a door that you can close on your laundry or mudroom until Sparky finishes the big shake! Having towel storage handy is also a great idea! 


  • Go bigger with the drain. A 3-inch drain is recommended in a pet washing station. It will handle dog hair better than the standard 1½- to 2-inch shower drain. Having a hair filter over the drain is also a great idea! 


  • Consider an elevated dog bath for smaller pets. It will be easier on your back and knees in the long run, as long as your dog is willing and able to jump into it, or you don't have a problem lifting your pet into place.

We have great working reltionships with local renovation teams & custom home builders in Regina, so don't hesitate to reach out if you are looking for a referral for your next project or build! 




As always stay safe & well!  


~ Karin & Jen 

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 Can we talk about this renovation!?!?⁣

It took awhile for us to find these amazing clients the right home, in the right area, for their family ...and that would allow them the opportunity to renovate and make it their own. ⁣

But we did….and they did ….and it looks fantastic! ⁣

This is a spacious bungalow in SE Regina that had a fairly typical design from the early 2000’s ….a front to back plan where the kitchen/dining area opened up onto the back yard/deck but was separated from the large living area by a full wall. ⁣
So how do you open up the space to create open concept living and still have a great functional kitchen after you eliminate a wall of cabinets? Well ….this is how 


We LOVE this kitchen and everything about it…the white cabinets with brass pulls, clean white quartz countertops with waterfall island with tons of extra cabinets … and that range hood!! Not to mention, the cool lighting from Richardson Lighting - Regina …and those beautiful stools from Hunters Furniture! ⁣ 


The flooring was replaced with a lighter hardwood throughout to provide one seamless surface through the living areas! ⁣

Updating all of the former oak window & door trim and baseboards with white trim is a simple way to modernize and brighten up the space! What a difference that made


Thanks to our great clients for sharing this with us & kudos to Citizen Design Co. for the design inspiration! ⁣

There are so many great value opportunities in our Regina market right now where you can also update the space to make it your own! ⁣


And you may also qualify to take advantage of available “purchase plus improvements mortgage plans” to help pay for those renovations. ⁣

If you are thinking about buying a home, and have questions about the process or need a referral to a lnder or mortgage broker, feel free to contact us...we’d love to hear from you! ⁣

~ Karin & Jen ⁣



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Canada’s mortgage rates are creeping up -- even though the country’s central bank has slashed borrowing costs to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

“That’s due to the enormous pressure Canadian banks face amid disruptions caused by the outbreak, said Sherry Cooper, chief economist at Dominion Lending Centres.
The costs of funds for banks is skyrocketing and bank earnings are plunging, Cooper told Bloomberg Monday.“

“Every single business they have ever loaned to is subject to a massive decline in revenues, and therefore their own revenues are going down because nobody is taking out new business with banks except to extend debt.”

If you want to understand more about mortgage rates, how they work & the current volatility of those rates check out this video from Dustan Woodhouse - AMP Accredited Mortgage Professional:

Now for the GOOD NEWS & We’ll take any bit of positive news we can get right now!

There is some optimism as far as future job security is concerned as although there has been an increase in jobless claims, Canadian consumers are largely confident in their job security.

Just 13% of respondents to the Canadian Confidence Index said they were worried about losing their job, slightly up on the previous week, but below record highs.

So what does this mean to you? If you are thinking about buying a home in the near future you should be taking the time now to get your mortgage pre-approval and get your rate locked in now for 120 days!

Then when the time is right you are ready to go!

If you have questions or need a a referral to a lender or mortgage broker, feel free to contact us!

Email: info@w2realtyteam.com


~ Karin & Jen
 
"Your Proven Regina Real Estate Team" 
 
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While we know the most important thing we are dealing with right now is an unprecedented health crisis, we also know that it is a super stressful time for many people from a financial standpoint. 

We are happy to hear that both our Provincial & Federal governments have announced many measures to help everyone through this time, and those financial aid programs continue to be expanded as the need grows. 

So what can we do right now to be proactive? 


Check out all of the programs being offered to homeowners(including mortgage payment deferral), families & businesses to see what you can benefit from: 

Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan:
https://bit.ly/3dcA92v


Sakatchewan's COVID-19 Suppport Plans


There are a number programs available through your lender to defer mortgage payments & we recommend you contact your lender or your mortage broker to discuss your options. 


Check out this informative Blog on the subject from our colleague, Candice Carr, mortage expert form TMG, including contact info for all of the major lenders.

Thinking of Deferring Your Mortgage Payment?


Also, here are some great tips on how we can take control from BNN Bloomberg’s Pattie Lovett-Reid: 

"On a personal level:
- Be razor-sharp on what your expenses are over a two, or maybe three-month period.
- Pull back on discretionary spending.
- Get clarity around your company's salary policy if you become ill and have to stay home.
- Interest rates have been lowered by the Bank of Canada, so get to know your numbers in terms of reduced mortgage payments, loan payments etc. Expect the banks to provide clarity on this in the coming days. You might consider asking for mortgage payment relief for a month to free up cash flow.
- If you are having trouble making ends meet, reach out to all your creditors and request temporary relief. You are not in this alone.
- Look to negotiate all contracts and possibly suspend contracts and memberships where you can"

Check out the entire article here:
"Amid a crisis, take control where you Can"
https://bit.ly/33rnp3C


We work with great mortgage brokers and we recommend you talk to a specialist to find out what options will work best for you right now, for both existing mortgages and also if you are considering a buying a home at this time.


Of course if you have questions about what's happpening with the Real Estate market in Regina, feel free to reach out to us....we're happy to help!



We will all get thought this together with a plan! 

~ Karin & Jen


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Mind Management may just be as important as hand washing right now as we are all just trying to find normal while self-isolating and working from home. Check out these tips to help you manage anxiety & to help promote postive metal health......we hope you find these tips helpful! 


  1. Protect your mind & your attitude by taking just 5 minutes in the morning and journalling…..we find that writing down even just 5 things that you are grateful for helps to start your day off right!  Now's the time to follow pages that provide positive thoughts and articles everyday ...we can't possibly get too much of that right now!  Check out one like Marc and Angel Hack Life for daily inspriration.


  1. Try to maintain normal sleep patterns and daily schedules as much as possible.  When we can maintain some of our regular habits, it’s helps us to feel as normal as possible. If you are having trouble sleeping there are a number Apps like "Calm" that be can be helpful. 


  1. Limit your exposure to news and social media if you find it all overwhelming….and who doesn’t honestly!  It’s good to be informed of course, but too much information can cause undue anxiety & fear. Consider turning off your notifications for the time being! 


  1. Make time for exercise of some kind every day…even if it’s just a walk around the block to get fresh air.  Most gyms are now providing online training so check with yours & there are loads of full length videos available on YouTube so you can work out at home.  Active by PopSugar Fitness has provided a free link to al of their workouts....from beginner to advanced, with or without equipment and all types and duration options!  


  1. Lighten up on what you watch….comedies and even mindless TV shows are ok right now to give your mind a break. There are so many steaming options available with loads of content & even some our old favourites on syndicated TV like Friends, Big Bang Theory & Rules of Engagement are on daily marathons right now! 


  1. Stay in touch with friends and family "virtually" or by phone just to check in ….both for them and you!  We may be self-isolating but we don’t have to feel isolated because we have the gift of technology that allows us to easily connect! 


If you need help, there are resources available, so please reach out! The Saskatchewan Health Care Administration has tools available for you to check out on their website.



Be kind to yourself…and others ….everyone deals with things differently!  And you know what, if you don’t feel like keeping up with some things right now it’s ok…we’re all in the same boat and we will all get through this together!  



We’re here, working at home for the time being, and we’re always available if you have questions about what’s happening in Regina's real estate market so feel free to connect with us ….we’re happy to hear from you!


Email: info@w2realtyteam.com



~  Karin & Jen


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Hawkstone Village is a 2 storey townhouse condominium complex  located in Regina's NW development, Hawkstone, close to schools, shopping and services. Hawkstone Village, is a partnership project with Varsity & Gilroy Homes and has the benefit of a builder/developer team with over 30 years’ experience in custom home building in Regina. They have a solid reputation for the quality of their product, and it shows in this project!  We, the W2 Team, are happy to represent this project.



The 1023 sq ft 2 storey townhouses, with undeveloped basement space, are now starting at $240,000 (including GST). You can customize your own unit with a choice of preset colour combination & upgrade options based on your personal taste and budget, and If you require a quick possession we have designed some great units that are move-in ready!


You can check out the available move-in ready listings linked below:

Our Hawkstone Village Listings


The 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath units have great standard finishes including carpet & linoleum (upgrade options for laminate & tile), shaker style cabinets in 3 colours, 2 choices of lighting packages, blinds package included,a $3200 appliance credit so ou can choose your own, as well as upgrade options for central air conditioning & granite countertops.


One electrified parking stall is included with the option to purchase a 2nd stall.




The Hawkstone Village show suite is located at 3469 Elgaard Drive, facing Rochdale Boulevard, weekends 1-5PM or you can call to schedule an appointment for viewing!  


For more information contact us at:

info@W2realtyteam.com


Follow us on Facebook:

Hawkstone Village Townhouses


You can also check out more details & the unit floorplan at:

HawkstoneVillage.com



Happy home shopping!

Karin & Jen


Your Proven Regina Real Estate Team



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There are a lot of moving parts in the purchase of a home and assembling a good team that you are happy working with is really important!  Of course finding an agent to work with to help you find that home is the first thing you may think about but the “team” also consists of a Mortgage Broker, Home inspector and a real estate Lawyer.  We can help guide you through that process and refer you to great qualified people in those industries as well, and we will talk about that in Part II of this blog. 


So first, choosing your real estate agent!  The whole point of working with a real estate agent is to have a knowledgeable professional represent your interests throughout the home-buying process, from identifying possible homes to closing the deal. So you want to find an agent who has your priorities and best interests at heart.




What things should you consider when you are choosing your agent? 

  • Compatibility: Is the agent someone you would enjoy working with? You’re not looking for a new best friend, but you’ll spend a lot of time with your agent as you view homes, discuss strategy, fill out paperwork, and the myriad of other activities involved in finding & buying the right …or “right for now” home.
  • Understanding: It’s important that your agent “gets” what you’re looking for in a home. Otherwise, you’ll both waste your time looking at properties that aren’t a good fit for you…that being said it usually takes looking at a few homes to narrow down your preferences and really get a feel for what you are liking…or not!
  • Availability: Look for an agent who’ll work with your schedule. You don’t want to find yourself missing opportunities because you can never find a common time to meet. That is one of the benefits we offer as a team….sometimes you get both of us but if one isn’t available the other one is.  We like to say you get 2 for 1 when you choose the W2 team!
  • Trustworthiness: Your agent has what we call a “fiduciary duty” to you; that means your relationship is based on trust and confidence. You need to work with someone you trust to deal with you fairly, to keep your confidential information….well confidential. And to represent you with both honesty and integrity...that should go without saying.

We would also add to this list that you should feel that your agent will work well in communicating with both the seller of a property when required and the seller’s agent through the process of negotiating a purchase on your behalf.  Having good communication skills and a positive working relationship with all parties involved will be helpful in producing a good end result! 


We thoroughly enjoy the process of working with our clients to find the perfect home and we want them to know that we are there to help no matter how long it takes or how many houses we need to see until we find the right one.   That’s what you need to feel when you choose your agent!


If you are starting the process of looking for a home or condo in the Regina area, and have questions, whether it is new or resale, we are here to help you make the right move.


Happy House Hunting!

Karin & Jen

 

Your Proven Regina Real Estate Team




 

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What is Warehouse style really all about?  From rustic to refined, it's all about your personality!


Our W2 Team was "born" in the Warehouse District as we were developing raw undeveloped space into condos of our own so we know this from the inside out & have an affinity for the style aesthetic. 



Baring it all in design takes some courage, and modern industrial interior design is about exposing all that lies beneath to achieve the raw, edgy style that is the hallmark of the warehouse loft! 


What normally we would take great pains to hide, the industrial warehouse loft style boldly puts on display.

You have to have some vision to see what that space can be!



Structural elements, like beams, ventilation systems & exposed brick, are turned into design features, achieving a look that seems unfinished, yet cohesive and chic.


Modern industrial /warehouse design offers you a unique opportunity to juxtapose the raw with the refined, the sleek and modern with the vintage, rustic and classic.



That is what you will see in all of the unique Warehouse District properties in YQR and it’s exactly why we love the district so much! There are no two spaces the same as each as has been individually designed and is a true reflection of personal style. 


The area has developed in the past 2 decades from a quirky, basically unknown neighbourhood to a bustling trendy hub of residences & new thriving businesses....shops & services, restaurants, brewpubs, coffee shops, numerous fitness centres, and now even a local grocer....all much needed & especially appreciated by the residents of the area!

Click the link below to check out all of the great shops & services in the District.


So what’s it like to live in Regina’s Warehouse District….do you have questions about  loft living?  


Just ask….we have personal experience and are to happy to share it!



Happy Home Shopping!


~ Karin & Jen



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