Buying a house is one of the biggest decisions in most people's lives. Not only is it a massive financial commitment, but it's also a long-term investment. Given the weight of this decision, it's vital to avoid certain pitfalls and mistakes that could potentially affect the value of your investment and the quality of your life. Below are some common real estate mistakes that buyers and investors should avoid.

 

 

1. Not Getting a Professional Inspection:  A professional inspection will provide you with a comprehensive view of the home's condition. An inspector checks every nook and cranny, and his detailed report will highlight potential problems such as structural damage, plumbing issues, electrical concerns, etc. Ignoring a professional…

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By all accounts, remote working is here to stay. In fact, according to a survey by McKinsey & Co (a research institute), 58% of workers say they can work at home at least part of the time. 

So, highlighting the remote working potential of your listing can be a major selling point.

One thing you can do is stage your home by creating a home office space of some kind. It doesn’t have to take up an entire room. It could simply be a nook with a desk and chair. Just be sure the space looks comfortable and functional.

 

If possible, add shelves. And make sure the lighting is adequate for working

Consider adding a couple of plants and other attractive decor.

 

If you have an existing home office, declutter it as much as possible and…

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The summertime real estate season is as hot as the weather, but there are amazing benefits to purchase in the fall

For the first time in recent history, October surpassed June as the most popular month to get married. And these autumn-loving brides may be on to something: Although the spring months are notoriously the best time to buy real estate (as well as have a wedding), fall may be the new ideal season to buy a home.

1. There’s less competition

Competition for houses drops off in the fall, a time many people consider to be off-season in real estate. But there are still homes for sale — and in some cases, there’s just as much inventory as there was during the spring and summer.

2. Sellers are worn-out

Some sellers who put their…

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Fall splendor got off to an early start this year, with splotches of yellow dappling the River Valley as early as Labour Day weekend. A quick start likely means an early exit, so it’s best to take advantage of the colours while they last.

So, instead of watching the leaves fall from the branches outside your office window, get outside and see the beauty for yourself. Here are the 5 best viewing points in the city, in our opinion

Victoria Park hill

Near Le Marchand Mansion (11523 100th Ave.), and down the hill you can see the river valley for miles. Look down and all you can see are reds, oranges, and yellows with a view of the river meandering down the middle.

Kinnaird Ravine

Drive east on Jasper Avenue to 82 Street and turn east on…

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Landscaping may not be the first thing that comes to mind when selling your home in autumn. However, the outside of your home is still the first thing buyers see, so it’s worth exploring ways to update your landscaping to create a cozy and welcoming feel.

Here are just a few ideas:

1. Add potted plants:  Potted plants are an easy way to make your outdoors more attractive, especially along walkways and around your front door. And, because they’re potted, they can quickly be removed should the weather turn inclement.

2. Keep it Tidy:  As leaves begin to fall, make sure to rake them up and keep your lawn and landscaping looking neat and tidy. This will help potential buyers see the full potential of your outdoor space without being…

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If you’re thinking of selling, you’re probably planning to make a few minor improvements to make your property more appealing to buyers. That’s a smart idea.

So, what are the best small improvements to make? Here are a few ideas:

  1.        Cabinet hardware: Upgrading the hardware on kitchen and bathroom cupboard doors and drawers can have a surprising impact on the look of those rooms. The best part is, that this improvement is about as DIY-friendly as it gets!
  1.        Cover plates:  If you have older light and electrical switches, replacing the cover plates with something more stylish can make a difference. It’s probably the simplest way to give a room a more modern look
  1.        Countertops: Replacing kitchen or bathroom countertops…

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Home staging is something every homeowner thinks they can do on their own. The reality, of course, is that home staging can be difficult and expensive—something most homeowners don’t realize until they actually try to stage their own.

Imagine walking into a big box store. You’re looking for some new towels. You go to the linen section – but there are socks, shoes, shampoo – all these unnecessary items cluttered around and not a towel to be found. You’ll probably never go there again, right?

Then you go to another store where everything is placed well, all cleaned up, clutter-free, and up-to-date. This will definitely make you feel more comfortable, right? You’ll walk out with those towels and a smile.


This can be the case with a house as well.…

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Curb appeal is important. It’s the first thing buyers see when they drive up to your home — and, often, the first impression they get. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to achieve a great-looking exterior. Here are some simple and affordable ideas for enhancing your home's curb appeal:

1.  Add a fresh coat of paint:  One of the easiest ways to make your home look brand new is by adding a fresh coat of paint to the exterior. Choose a colour that complements the architectural style and surroundings of your home.

2.  Upgrade the front door: Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior. Consider painting it a bold colour, replacing it with a modern style, or simply adding a new doorknob and knocker.

3.  Install…

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Buyers will notice closets, storage rooms, and other storage spaces. So, it pays to make those areas look as spacious and functional as possible. Here are some tips on how to maximize your storage spaces and make them more appealing to buyers:

1. Declutter and organize: A cluttered and disorganized storage space can give the impression that there isn't enough room. Start by decluttering and getting rid of items you no longer need. Then, organize what's left by using shelving, baskets, or containers to keep everything in its place.

2. Paint or replace shelves:  If your shelves are looking worn or outdated, consider painting or replacing them. Adding a fresh coat of paint can give the space a clean and updated look. Replace old, sagging…

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Are you thinking about finding your next home? It can be tricky balancing what you want with what you can practically afford.

Here are some tips that can make buying your dream home more doable:

1. Save for a larger down payment.

A larger down payment can lower your monthly mortgage costs and possibly help you get a better interest rate.

2. Look at neighbourhoods that are less “in demand”

Some areas have the reputation of being desirable or exclusive and – as a result – expensive. But there may be neighbourhoods that are not as in-demand and yet ideal (and more affordable) for you. Explore that possibility.

3. Consider a fixer-upper

A home that needs some work may be more affordable, and you can save money by…

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