December 2013

Sometimes home buyers in Vancouver pass up homes they would love because cosmetic details, clutter, or the need for a good cleaning lead them to believe the home's overall condition is poor.   That's a shame, because new paint or flooring and a good cleaning often cost far less than the discount they might get because other buyers are ignoring the house.   Somewhere in our subconscious minds, most of us look at a house that's neat, tidy, and shining clean and believe that it's been well kept. At the same time, we can see clutter, a dirty carpet, or stains in the bathtub and think "I wonder what else they've let go?"   Any of those or similar details can make a buyer think that the homeowner just hasn't been maintaining the house. That…

If you're looking for a home here in Vancouver during the holiday season, it probably means you need to find a new home. It's not just a move you're thinking about for the future.   Perhaps you're relocating to Vancouver for a new job, coming because family needs you nearby, or you've simply sold your previous home and want/need to get settled.   In that case, there's good news for you.   You'll have less competition – and less chance of getting into a "bidding war" over the home you want. Not only are fewer buyers looking right now, many agents are taking time off, making it more difficult for buyers to connect with their agents to arrange showings.   You'll have fewer homes to view – which is a mixed blessing. It's true that you…

Consistent home sale and listing activity has allowed balanced market conditions to prevail in the Greater Vancouver housing market for most of 2013.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver reports that residential property sales in  Vancouver reached 2,321 on the  (MLS®) in November 2013. This represents a 37.7 per cent increase compared to the 1,686 sales recorded in November 2012, and a 12.8 per cent decline compared to the 2,661 sales in October 2013.

Last month’s sales were 1.2 per cent below the 10-year sales average for the month, while new listings were 1.5 per cent above the 10-year November average.

“We’ve seen steady and consistent trends the Vancouver housing market for much of this year,” REBGV president said. “This year’s

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Should you keep your home on the market during the holiday season? Of course it's up to you, but do remember that those who are looking at homes instead of doing "holiday things" are likely to be serious buyers. In fact, they may be out of area buyers who need to find a home during their children's school holiday.   It is a bother - trying to keep the house in showing condition while you're doing all the other holiday preparations.   That said, if you decide to stay with it, think about how you decorate, and do take precautions.   Decorating should be pretty, tasteful, and not overwhelming. You still want buyers to see the house and notice all its fine benefits and features. So don't go overboard.   Safety: I've warned you before…