Jul 29, 2015 / Buying

How to buy a University home for your child

In just 5 short weeks the next generation will be entering into university.

This time of year is always exciting, hectic, thrilling especially for those who are entering into a new phase of life.

I have had a lot of friends and clients through the years who have purchased property in the corresponding town where their child is attending university. The idea is they own the house for the four years their child is in said town and rent out the other rooms, which means their child will live for free and they can make a nice investment in the meantime.

I’ve seen great idea go both ways – good and not so good.

To ensure your investment goes well, I have compiled
four tips to owning student rentals in university towns.

AVOID A FIXER-UPPER.

A fixer upper is a great idea if you have the time, the money, and the patience. Residing in a different town than the property is a big commitment. You will need to maintain a job site from far away, which is often very stressful and difficult. Unless you were buying the property and fixing it up before your child moves in, this is not always a good option.

Your child is entering into a brand new stage of life, with lots of new challenges. Maintaining a home that needs a lot of work is not something that needs to be added to the stress of merging into university.

LOCATION. LOCATION. LOCATION.

Most university students do not have the privilege of owning a car. The house near amenities and a bus route is imperative. If you choose not to invest in laundry facilities, keep in mind a laundromat needs to be nearby.

If you do not know the city where your child in moving to, spend some time researching the safe, good, desirable neighborhoods and try to purchase a home in one of them. Oftentimes location trumps size in resale.

Usually the closer you get to the university, the more expensive the house. So long as your property is on a bus route that is convenient, the extremely close proximity is not a necessity.

STUDENT TENANCY RIGHTS.

Typically, students live at their location for 8 months of the year. Realistically you should factor a sublet agreement into your lease agreement. This will nip any gray areas in the bud. Most student do not stay in their university town over the summer, or if they are on co-op. Be realistic with your tenants and both of you will benefit in the long run.

A few people I know decided to treat their child like a tenant, rather than a property manager. This gave their child responsibility to pay bills, organize internet and utility hook ups and gave them the ability to learn how to budget financially.

MAKE IT LEGAL

University landlords often make the mistake of making illegal rooms, particularly in basements. Especially for resale value, converting a house into a multiple dwelling units will protect you from bylaw fines, being shut down, and will add great value if you are a registered duplex or triplex.

Universities usually have an accommodation advertisement area in their school newspaper or on campus. Protect yourself and your tenant by having a legal contract. If parents are co-signer, allow them to be involved.

At the end of your child’s university career you may want to sell the property to another parent in your situation, or you may find that keeping it works well for a long term investment.

Our team has great experience selling in multiple university towns all over Ontario and would be very happy to assist you in finding your child’es new home for the next four years.

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Jul 25, 2015 / Buying

Ever wondered: When is best time of year to buy or sell your home?

Traditionally, the calender used to dictate the best and worst times to sell a home.

Winter was seen as “the wrong time to list” and spring was viewed as optimal.

However, once the word got out and this school of thought became mainstream, things changed.

The truth is, timing is everything.

Aside from nicer weather, a home tends to show better in spring and summer. More buyers may also be ready to buy as they might be using their tax refunds for the down payment. Plus, if they have kids, moving in summer means schooling isn’t interrupted.

WHILE THIS IS TRUE, IT HAS ALSO CHANGED

The general market follows this rule, but there are lots of successful home sales year round now.
Especially in places like Hamilton, Burlington and Toronto, where there are more buyers than sellers, houses are a hot commodity.

Many of my clients successfully sell their homes in the winter. You never know what situations people are in, and the market is always moving forward. It is not always the case, but winter can be seen as more of a buyer’s market due to sellers wanting to move quickly, hence the winter listing.

This summer, we had out busiest June in many years!! The market was so hot (and still is!)

We needed more houses to service all our clients who were looking. Hamilton/ Burlington ran out of homes to sell and plenty of buyers are still looking. This is rare, but it does happen – my suggestion to buyers would be to start the search sooner!

No two homes are created equal. Depending on the size, style, and location of your home, some seasons are more favourable.

Are you thinking of buying or selling this year? I would love to help you determine what time of year would work best for your family! Contact us today!

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Jul 14, 2015 / Selling

Top 4 Rooms To Renovate That Can Increase Your Home’s Value

The truth is, not all home renovations are created equal.

Remodeling and undergoing extensive renovations is a natural progression of being a homeowner. But there are certain rooms you should focus on to increase your home’s value. Everyone seems to be renovating their homes, so make sure you choose DIY projects that are in your budget and actually earn you money when you choose to sell.

BRIGHTEN-UP THE KITCHEN

As the heart of the home, everyone tends to gather in the kitchen. Most of our home’s big ticket appliances live in this room.
Have you every wondered why everyone gathers in the kitchen during parties? Even if you don’t cook, this social space gets lots of action – so make it a beautiful place to be.

Since the kitchen is low on furniture and can be easily updated with a coat of paint, it’s important to get the kitchen appliances right. Spending the extra money to get the right appliances, counter tops and cupboards are crucial – it is costly to change your mind.

Home buyers love to see a kitchen that is clean, updated and move-in ready, easing the financial burden of having to make their own upgrades.

RENOVATE THE BASEMENT

In Canada, we are very lucky to have basements. Most other countries in the world do not have such a luxury. Being underground, they keep us cool in the summer and cozy in the winter months. Basements are second on our top four renovation list as they can add 25 – 50% more square footage to your home.

If your basement is unfinished, investing the time and money to make it a bright, livable space can essentially double the living space in your house.

Don’t need the extra space?

Why not put an approved rental unit in the basement. This is a great way to cut your mortgage payment in half, and give someone a nice place to live!

 

 

UPDATE THE BATHROOM

A newly updated bathroom goes a very long way when you are selling your home. The only room in the house where we spend time cleansing ourselves should be bright, airy, and an enjoyable place to be.

Don’t make the mistake of cutting costs and going cheap here, luxurious bathrooms have been known to sell homes on their own merit. When a potential home buyer walks through your home, they don’t want to be encountered with a “necessary project”.
Make it a nice space for yourself and you will reap the rewards by enjoying it, and earning back your investment when you sell.

SPRUCE UP THE BACKYARD

 

With only 6 months of nice weather, it is imperative that our outdoor spaces are usable, and beautiful!

Being cooped up inside all winter and all day at work, it’s nice to have an outdoor space to enjoy. Putting time, energy, and hardwork into creating a soothing, colourful backyard should never be overlooked.
With people being so busy these days, more and more homeowners are opting for creating yards with little grass – which is far easier to maintain. Buyers want to visualize living in your home, so making it cozy and well kept are big pluses.

If you are listing your home in winter, be sure to provide your realtor with outdoor photographs of your yard (front and back) in the summer.

If you’re satisfied that these rooms are buyer-ready, have a quick list at other areas to upgrade that can add value to your home:

  • FLOORING: Most people are afraid of carpet. It is the toughest flooring type to properly clean, and those with dust allergies often have concerns. Laying some nice tile or hardwood can transform an outdated hallway and add more value for a reasonable price and time frame.
  • WINDOWS:  New windows are a blessing. They save money on heat and air, make a home more attractive and eliminate draft. Windows are not cheap, but are well worth the investment.
  • DOORKNOBS & LIGHT SWITCHES: Sometimes the smallest details can make a big impact. Replacing 1980s switches and knobs can quickly and simply add an updated feel.
  • PAINT: A fresh paint job goes a long way. It can brighten up a room and make it feel newer with just two coats. Not bad for a quick day’s work and $150 at Home Depot.

If you have any questions about your upcoming renovation, we have seen it all! ?Contact Us and we would be happy to assist you!

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Jun 11, 2015 / Community

Burlington Sound of Music Festival

 

Summer is just around the corner! The weather has been fantastic and everyone is now gearing up for cottage season. I love summer in Burlington. The lake, rowing on the rivers, the hiking, and the crowds of happy people socailizing outside is just amazing!

The first sign of summer in Burlington is our Sound of Music Festival.

My kids used to love going to down Spencer Smith Park with their friends to enjoy it, it always marked the end of school! Now they love taking their kids there. ??There is just so much to see and do for everyone in the family and it really brings our community together. More people visit this festival every year than live in our city!! Last year’s attendance for the 9 days was roughly 230,000 people! Which means it is drawing in lots of tourists and boasts over 100 talented acts, plenty of whom perform voluntarily or for a modest fee.

Bringing such an event to Burlington every year since 1980 has definitely helped put our city on the map, making it not only a great place to live, but a choice place for out of town visitors.
more

It has been added to the list of Festivals & Events of Distinction, a group selected by Festival and Events Ontario which represent some of the most well-known and respected celebrations in the province; celebrations which draw both an international and domestic audience.  The list includes festivals such as Luminato, Toronto International Film Festival, TD Jazz Festival Toronto and RBC Ottawa Bluesfest.

The Sound of Music Festival was winner of the Grand Pinnacle 2012 from the IFEA (International Festival and Events Association).  The Grand Pinnacle is the IFEA’s highest award (divided into four budget categories) reflecting the best overall festival or event in the world.

I hope to see you and your family at The Sound of Music this weekend!

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home.
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Jun 10, 2015 / Community

Building the Future of Burlington

“What and who is Burlington?

There are the obvious facts and figures. We are a city of over 185,000 people, plus the babies born at Joseph Brant Hospital this morning.

We have a picturesque waterfront, a thriving downtown and a rural area featuring rich farmland and the Niagara Escarpment.

Burlington is all of this. And so much more.”

Mayor Rick Goldring, State of the City Address, 2015

 

There is no surprise that Burlington is constantly growing.

Burlington has been named Canada’s best mid-sized city for the third year in a row, according to MoneySense Magazine’s Best Places to Live 2015 rankings, released just a few weeks ago.

Consistently ranking in the top ten cities to live in Canada, with access to farms, greenery and Lake Ontario, Burlington has so much to offer.

But what happens when there is an influx and higher demand than supply? When Burlington cannot seem to build fast enough to occupy all those on the waiting list to move here?

To understand intensification, we need to understand what is driving our growth.

In Ontario, the Golden Horseshoe is a highly sought after area. The attraction for jobs, accessibility to the USA, and proximity to Toronto – the hub of our country – are all very important factors.

Halton Region has developed the Sustainable Halton Growth Management Strategy. This will help manage the anticipated growth of 780,000 people and 390,000 jobs in Halton by the year 2031.

While all of this is fantastic and growth means opportunity and exciting change, we have to ask the pressing question: where do we grow?
Our city is aalmost built out, and the other 50 per cent of our city is protected Greenbelt land.

We have a lake bordering us to the south and an escarpment to the north, so we cannot adopt any more land.

The best solution is to utilize the space we’ve already got.The downtown core is one of the main sites slated for intensification. This area was established by the province as an Urban Growth Centre.

Burlington is also looking to Urban Growth Corridors, like Fairview Street and Plains Road. We are also reviewing intensification opportunities at the city’s aging retail plazas.
In times of change, it is important to remember why we are building within rather than sprawling out. Protecting what is precious to our city and what makes Burlington unique is something that cannot be debated.

Committed to intensification management, climate change adaptation, economic development, service-based budgeting and the Community Energy Plan, Burlington is keeping up with the shift happening in our world.
Being prepared for and setting the framework for growth is extremely important for longterm effectiveness. We have anaylzed changes to the sewer and water systems, potential traffic flow issues and utilizing the space to the maximum capacity.

Burlington’s growth is exciting. Being part of this fabulous community and knowing how it’s highly regarded feels amazing, and I know Burlington residents are very proud to call this city their home.

“We have the tools to manage our growth in a responsible way – in conjunction with community engagement. Let’s work together to continue to foster a made-in-Burlington approach to growth, creating a sustainable city for generations to come.” – Mayor Rick Goldring

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.


 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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May 21, 2015 / Buying

4 reasons why people buy luxury homes

No matter the state of the economic climate, there will always be people who are looking to buy luxury items, especially luxury homes. As a result, the demand for luxury homes may fluctuate with the change of season, but it will never go away.

Driven by the rise in industry, technology, and increasing numbers of millionaires in the Burlington area, people are looking for more than just four walls and a place to park their BMWs.

Some could say this is a thirst for the good life, while others may feel inspired by the new fancy homes being built. But there is no question; the influx of money into our city will benefit the whole community one way or another.

COMFORT

Today’s luxury homes provide many of life’s modern comforts. Features such as; swimming pools, wine bars, outdoor living, upgraded kitchens, underground parking, manicured lawns, home gym, electronically controlled smart homes, the list goes on make the living space more comfortable.

SECURITY

Not that Burlington has a home security issue, but luxury homes offer the extra sense of feeling safety in your home. with alarm systems, gates, cameras, and being positioned in good neighbourhoods,homeowners can rest easy.

DESIRED NEIGHBOURHOOD

Luxurious homes tend to be in highly sought after areas, which boast some of the city’s best schools. Many tend to have large yards, great proximity to the lake or to other downtown attractions.

INVESTMENT

Real estate still remains one of the best long term investments around. Properties present the advantage of being a “performing asset” – meaning that it serves a practical purpose, even as it gains value. The fact that luxury homes are always in demand, they are seen as a favourable investment opportunity that guarantees multiplied returns in the future.

I love selling homes of all shapes and sizes. If you are in the market for a luxury home, we would love to help you out! Please contact us to see what we can do for you.

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.


 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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May 11, 2015 / Community

Top Ten Day Trips From Toronto

Burlington has continuously been named one of the top cities to live in Canada, according to MoneySense Magazine. The favourable proximity to Toronto, Niagara Falls, and the USA are among the most desirable features.

Toronto is the financial hub of Canada, and is the most Americanized city in our country. Niagara Falls draws millions of tourists each year, boasting one of the most famous natural attractions in the world.
There is so much to see and do around our beautiful city.

Here are ten fantastic day-trips from Toronto for tourists (or locals) to enjoy!

1. Blue Mountain – 168 kms North of the CN Tower
Amazing in summer or winter! If you’re looking for things to do at Blue Mountain, you will be introduced you to a whole new world of activities and recreation.
Blue Mountain is located in the heart of one of Canada’s most stunning natural landscapes and in a region with a vibrant social and cultural scene. From Wasaga beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world, to authentic harbour villages, the Georgian Triangle offers an unforgettable journey through both nature and civilization – a journey that can easily last a lifetime.

 

Scandinave Spa – “Top 50 Spa” by Spas of America & Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
Situated in a natural forest, minutes from downtown Collingwood & Blue Mountain Resort, open all year from 10am-9pm, enjoy the serenity of the environment at Scandinave Spa.  The Baths include a Finnish Sauna, Eucalyptus Steam Room, Thermal & Nordic Waterfalls, Hot Baths, Cold Plunges & relaxation areas.

Also available are Registered Massage treatments, relaxing getaway packages & an on-site bistro serving healthy local fare. Bring the family and try one of the many activities this summer, including suspension bridge, zip lines, mini golf, adventure playground, trout pond and exploring the caves.

2. Canada’s Wonderland 50kms North of the CN Tower
Canada’s Wonderland is Canada’s premier amusement park and features over 200 attractions, 69 thrilling rides, North America’s greatest variety of roller coasters, and Splash Works; a 20-acre water park.
CanadasWonderland.com

3. CN Tower
An Adventure at Every Level! Your Tower Experience offers general admission access to your choice of thrills. Discover spectacular views, from the LookOut Level at 346 m (1,136 ft.), including EdgeWalk viewing at BaseCamp 3.0, dare to walk on air on the world famous Glass Floor at 342m (1,122 ft.) with outdoor SkyTerrace, and access to attractions, informational displays and more.
CNTower.ca

 

 

4. Elora Gorge 115kms from the CN Tower
This lovely 177-year-old village is a place that will grow on you the minute you arrive. It’s located on the Grand River, where the Elora Gorge begins. Check out the magnificent waterfall and the high rock known as The Tooth of Time, behind the Elora Mill Inn.
Continue to explore the shops, boutiques and restaurant found on Mill and Metcalfe streets. One site not to missed is the reflection in the Grand River of the back of the downtown stores.
EloraFergusTravel.com

 

5. Muskoka Cottage Country 245kms from the CN Tower
On several occasions, Muskoka has been recognized by National Geographic Traveler magazine as a special place to visit. Muskoka is one of their top 20 Best of The World – Must-see places. Just recently, Muskoka was recognized by National Geographic as one of the ‘100 Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life.” These endorsements from an iconic magazine are testimony to Muskoka’s tourism experiences and our quality of life.

Muskoka has an abundance of things to see and do. The list is long with something for every taste and interest. Visit a museum, hike a pristine trail, star gaze, relax in front of bonfire, swim in sparkling waters, shop for that perfect piece of art, sip some local wine or beer on a dock, get up close and personal with wildlife, pamper yourself at a spa, give your taste buds a treat, photograph stunning vistas, or enjoy one of the many events and festivals which reflect Muskoka’s charm and uniqueness. Whether you feel like being outdoors or indoors, whether you are a beginner or an expert, whatever the season, whatever the budget, Muskoka has something for everyone. DiscoverMuskoka.ca

6. Niagara Falls 127kms from the CN Tower
Perfectly carved during the ice age more than 12,000 years ago. A wonder of the world so spectacular that 14 million people a year come to experience it. A combination of power, strength and beauty that only nature can create. Often referred to as “Canada’s Las Vegas” there is something for everyone in the family here.
NiagaraFallsTourism.com

7. Niagara Wine Country 130kms from the CN Tower
Exploring Niagara Wine Country can be an adventure by itself. Experiencing it via bike, tour bus or by car, following the Niagara Wine Trail adds elements of intrigue that can make for a more memorable vacation. There are plenty of tour operators that have devoted their entire business to providing adventurous excursions set within the Niagara Region, usually accompanied with the most scrumptious farm to table meals that will satisfy your inner foodie.
Niagara’s unique geography and climate has allowed for breathtaking vineyards and wineries throughout the region. From small boutique wineries, to organic wineries and even celebrity wineries, there’s a wonderful diversity to keep visitors coming back again and again. The New Vintage Festival in spring, The Niagara Wine Festival in early fall and the Niagara Icewine Festival are essential events for wine lovers. When in Niagara, your taste buds will thank you as you sample incredible locally grown VQA wines expertly paired with culinary delights. WineCountryOntario.com

 

8. Stratford 148kms from the CN Tower
Stratford is a destination internationally renowned as one of North America’s great arts towns.

Stratford celebrates a vibrant art and music scene, famed theatre, modern recreational facilities and a variety of recreational programs. This is a jewel of a city located on the Avon River, surrounded by a plethora of affordable eateries, restored Victorian homes on streets lined with majestic mature trees.

And, of course, there’s the Stratford Festival, which serves up top-notch live theatre. VisitStratford.ca

9. The Bruce Trail 101kms from the CN Tower
The Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, provides the only continuous public access to the magnificent Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Running along the Escarpment from Niagara to Tobermory, it spans more than 890 km of main Trail and over 400 km of associated side trails.

The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) is a charitable organization* committed to establishing a conservation corridor containing a public footpath along the Niagara Escarpment, in order to protect its natural ecosystems and to promote environmentally responsible public access to this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The BTC is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts, preserving over 8,000 acres of irreplaceable Niagara Escarpment landscape. BruceTrail.org

10. Toronto Islands 4kms from the CN Tower
With more than 2 million visitors each year the Toronto Islands are one of the city’s top attractions.  Especially on a nice summer day it’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the weather.

Best things about Toronto Islands

  • The ferry ride.  The ferries in use today date back to the 1930s and are a historic connection to Toronto’s past.  The ferry ride also provides for some of the most spectacular views of the Toronto skyline.
  • Centreville.  Toronto’s premier children’s amusement park is a great place to take the kids for a fun filled day at the islands.
    The beaches.  There are beaches located from one end of the main island to the other, and being located on the outside of Toronto Harbour have consistently good water quality.  The Centre Island beach is great for the family.  For the adventurous check out the beach at Hanlan’s Point, one of the few “clothing optional” beaches in Canada.
  • Canoeing and kayaking.  Not just a single island, Toronto Islands are actually several islands separated by canals and waterways.  Those canals are a perfect place to explore in a canoe or kayak.  Boats can be rented at the Boat House not far from the Centre Island docks.
  • Bicycling.  The islands are crisscrossed with trails and bridges and being more than 6km from end to end bicycling is the ideal way to check out the entire park.  You can take your own bike on either the Ward’s or Hanlan’s Point ferries.  Alternatively you can rent bicycles, including tandem bicycles, at the bike shop not far from the Centre Island docks.
  • Far Enough Farm.  The petting zoo adjacent to Centreville has a variety of barnyard animals for up close viewing.  Donkey rides are also available for the children.
  • Picnics.  BBQ stands and fire pits are located throughout the park, or bring your own portable charcoal hibachi.  The islands are a great place for sharing a picnic with friends while enjoying the natural environment and view of the Toronto skyline.
  • Festivals.  There are numerous festivals on the islands over the course of the summer months including the international dragon boat competition, Caribana, music festivals, and many other events.  Check out our Events page for more information on upcoming events.
    TorontoIslands.org

We are so blessed to live in such a wonderful, safe city that is surrounded by many interesting and exciting things to do. Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville are nestled right amongst all the great attractions on our list, which ad to the charm of being a resident here!
Let us know what your favourite attractions are! Contact us is you have any questions, we would love to hear from you!

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.


 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Apr 30, 2015 / Selling

The HUGE Benefits of an Open House

I am sure we all have the same home sale dream. List the house, have multiple offers,maybe have a bidding war and take our pick on which offer we would like to accept.

While this magically happens for some, for the rest of us, the process is a bit more in depth.

Holding an open house is one of the best ways to gain valuable feedback. Attending other open houses can help greatly with understanding where your home measures up.

Allows for Shopping Around

An open house allows prospective buyers the chance to view multiple homes and compare what the market offers. As a seller, you could venture out and look around at other homes, either to move into or for a market comparison against your own home.

Buyers Can Come at their Own Pace

When you are buying a home, agents book multiple appointments for you to view individual houses. Arranging times and appointments with homeowners can be tricky, and sometimes not everything lines up. As a seller, holding an open house is a great way to have a large number of prospective buyers all coming through your home in one 2 hour timeblock.

Bring a Friend /Relative

Usually in the home buying process, the individual or couple are the ones who go to showings. The nice thing with an open house is you can bring others who are close to you to get their advice. Sometimes having the opinion of someone you trust, who is not emotionally involved, is a nice sounding board.

Hear Other Feedback

At an open house, often times other prospective buyers looking through the home will make passing comments. The questions they bring up may not have been something you thought of and can ask your agent. Hearing positive feedback or seeing what others are pointing out also helps you notice all the fine

As the homeowner, the question could be posed; “Why would you not have an open house?” There really isn’t a downside to having an open house. They are intended to entice buyers into your property and if it is presented well, you could find a buyer on the day!

Also, having a 2 hour open house block time allows buyers through your home, potentially saving you hours outside of the open house.

We would be thrilled to work with you and host your open house. Contact us Today!

We’d love to hear from you. What are you favourite things about an open house?

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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Apr 21, 2015 / Buying

Uncovering The Real Cost OF Moving

If your rental lease is coming due or if you are in the market to buy a new home, I am sure you have made lists of things to do in preparation for your move. Looking at new places to live is exciting, but people often get so caught up in dreaming of the future that they fail to budget for the present.

It may be wise to take a step back to evaluate and ask yourself:

WHAT IS THE COST OF MOVING?

 

Full Service Movers:

Movers are often a Godsend for many people. Moving homes can place a big strain on the everyday workings of life. From planning to packing, to everything involved with buying a new home, by moving day many people find they are exhausted. 
A reputable moving company charges based on the number of movers and trucks used during your move – this expense for a 4 bedroom house will be around $150 – 170 per hour for 4 experienced movers and a big moving van that can fit all of your belongings. This does not include packing costs, which can run roughly the same amount.

The DIY Move:

When you set out to tackle the move yourself, you are in charge of arranging everything from the truck to the hired help.

  • Rental Truck
    Companies like Uhaul usually offer in town rental rates starting as low as $19.95. It is up to you to supply the gas and insurance, which can add up if you are doing multiple trips.The average truck rental cost for a 4 bedroom home would cost approximately $200 – $300.
  • Hired Help
    If you are lucky enough to have a few friends who will help you move, you may only be out the cost of pizza and beer ($60). However, if you need to hire local movers to assist you, you can expect to pay $90 per hour for 3 movers.

If you are looking to move to another city or province, these prices quickly increase. You will need to factor in hotel stays ($125/night) portable storage units, additional gas, and truck drop off fees. These all vary depending on the distance. 

With any drastic life change, there are multiple factors that we sometimes overlook. Here we looked at the cost of moving as merely financial, but it can be a major emotional upheaval for some as well.

Let us help you through the moving process, contact us today!

Our team of real estate sales professionals is committed to finding you, your dream home. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the Karen Paul team is here to help with any questions.

 

 

Interested in learning more? Send us a message here and we’ll be in touch with you soon after.

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