Edmonton Real Estate Blog

The advantage of the internet has been phenomenal without a doubt and selling online is one of them.

With the internet becoming such an important aspect taking its edge is a must for anyone in the real estate industry.

With that in mind here are some of the things to take note of how to sell through online.

Listed

There are different popular real estate websites which users can use to sell their properties online, but some of the sites are not for free.

By making your very own website you can exhibit your properties online. Also one of the advantages of having your own website is that there is no limited restriction by means of paying for your properties to be posted.

Also take note that 20% of real estate searches are on mobile devices which uses the internet.

Online Reality

You can show the interior and exterior of the property that you are selling through listing videos. By showcasing more of the details of the property, you can make it more appealing to the masses.

Another way in which it is more convenient and take less effort is through pictures by which are the get-go by individuals selling their properties online..

While videos and pictures has become the foundations of real estate advertising in online selling, another technological sensation has been getting to mainstream online media which is 3d.

This technology will become a trend in virtual staging properties online very soon.

Social Network

You can network with brokers through online and by using different platforms of social media like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram which have been used by millions worldwide.

There are some unconventional sites like Craigslist and Pinterest which have been used to promote selling real estate properties.

The times are changing and the only ones who can survive the inevitable change are the ones who adapt to them.

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

The key in quickly selling your Edmonton home and getting your asking price is accomplishing a successful staging. From cleaning to styling, there are many different approaches you can try.

Here are some staging tips you can try to make your Edmonton house sell faster.

Curb Appeal Boost

You might have heard this for quite some time and with good reason. Make sure your Edmonton home is ready to welcome onlookers because potential Edmonton buyers thinking to look at your Edmonton home will do a quick drive-by first, and often decide if it’s worth their time to look inside.

Do luring tactics like power wash siding and walkways, wash front windows, plant fresh greenery and flowers, repaint the porch floor if needed, etc. You may never know who may be looking at your Edmonton home.

Clean Edmonton House

Whether it’s your own elbow grease or you hire a professional cleaner, a clean Edmonton house always attracts more Edmonton buyers.

Clutter Away

All clutters must go if you’re serious with staging your Edmonton home, end of story.

Space

With the clutters managed, you can now showcase more of the space of your Edmonton property which entices Edmonton buyers. The more space you have, the more attracting your Edmonton house is.

Use Extra Rooms Intelligently

If you have a room which has been a dumping ground for oddities then it’s better to clear that room up. When a potential buyer sees that extra room, he or she can see maybe an office space or an extra room for the kids. Which might be a crucial piece in whether to buy the Edmonton property or not.

Seasonal Thinker

Take advantage of the seasons when staging your Edmonton home. In summer make sure your garden is beautifully modelled. Clean and assured that the pools and fire pit are ready to be use. While in autumn and winter make use of the cozy atmosphere by building a fire in the fireplace, etc.

Before you put your Edmonton house on the market make sure you have done every preparation you can think of so that when the time comes for you to sell your Edmonton home, the selling process will be fast and less likely for you to experience any bumps as the journey goes.

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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How do you know that the Edmonton house that you are looking at is the right Edmonton home for you? Is it gut feeling or is it the right price? Maybe it’s just plain ol love at first sight!

Here are some tips to help you find the right Edmonton home.

Don’t Believe the ‘Excitement’ (Good or Bad)

When looking for an Edmonton home in a particular area, do your own research of that neighbourhood. Is hot or not?  Don’t get carried away by the hype. The internet is one tool to use to find information about a certain location. Look for great insights into the area you’re considering for your next move.

Location

Be very clear about what matters to you. You want a property that delivers to you what you need now and also what you need in the future. Do you need access to major roads, public transportation, entertainment centers, schools etc?

If you want to be sure about the home’s location, then you could try to do some field work in the area. Try walking around, grab a coffee or a meal. Pretend that you are already living there. Experiencing firsthand the area gives you an idea for the reality of that location. This experience can inform your decision about whether you really want to live in that neighbourhood.

Expert

Talk to local real estate agents or even better hire one from the outset. You may think hiring an agent is expensive but in truth they can save you a whole lot of time and money. An agent can help you find the Edmonton home that you always dreamed and at the same time, can deal with all the intricacies of the buying process.

Upside Lookout

There are some locations hitting the bottom of a pricing cycle, so there are bargains to be had. Cooler periods in the housing market can be opportunity for you. It’s worth keeping an eye on interest rates and the latest market trends.  Your Real Estate agent can help you with that.

Inspect Smartly

Sellers naturally stage their properties to make sure they look their best when you visit them. Make sure to have your ‘A Game’ when inspecting. You don’t want any troubling leaks or pest problems in the near future after you buy your own Edmonton house. Hiring a certified and licensed home inspector can bring you peace of mind.

Knowing the state of the real estate market is useful to help you make your decision, but it shouldn’t be the only thing that motivates you. What matters in the end is whether it’s your time to buy for your own needs and circumstances.

Are you ready?

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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For a real estate agent, using superior skills and consistent marketing for listings is a sure way to develop new listings, as well as to sell properties that they have been hired to handle.

All Edmonton properties should get the same attention but of course, the more expensive a property is, the more there will be to market.

Here are some marketing strategies that can bring up real estate sales!

The Importance of Photography

No matter what the price of an Edmonton property, each listing should employ a professional photographer.  Photographs can awe or turnoff people. Photographs can be used on websites, social media, internet platforms, a variety of different print advertising, branding and more. High quality advertising is a must because it portrays the agent’s brand and what Edmonton properties they are marketing.

Own Website

It is ideal for Edmonton properties to have their own dedicated property-specific address or domain. The intention for this is to make it easier for buyers and agents to locate properties, especially with the internet being the largest resource of the real estate industry.

Online Presence

Accepting and utilizing the internet is the key in reaching a magnitude of young audience members planning to have their very own Edmonton home. Posting to different sites and using social media is just some of the ways you can use the internet to your advantage.

A philosopher once said “Every battles is won before it is fought”  The real estate industry is a battle field where only the ones with the best prepared strategies can survive the day to day skirmishes. Luck favors the prepared so prepare hard!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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Time and time again we hear stories of successful people around the world and they all have one thing in common – they worked hard to become experts in their fields!! They invested a lot of time, energy and practice into their fields of expertise.  And they weren’t afraid of the unknown. Looked upon it as a challenge. The same goes for the real estate industry – staying ahead of the competition means preparing so you can stay two or three steps ahead of everyone.

Here are some insights into preparing for buying and selling in the real estate market.

Research Local Pricing

When targeting a location, research the current price trends in that specific area. Look to see if the prices of Edmonton houses are accelerating faster in some locations than others. Check if the average Edmonton property is priced differently than in other neighboring cities. By doing so, this will provide you with an idea of where the biggest demand lies.

Mortgage Pre-approval

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is favorable. The top advantage is a financial benefit. Once you are pre-approved for a mortgage, most lenders will lock in an interest rate for you for several months. This ensure that you get a lower interest rate if interest rates rise while you’re house hunting.

Look For Change

A sign that an area is up-and-coming and will be in demand in the future is the development of new infrastructure. When you see new roads, schools, malls and businesses being built, it’s a sign that the community is set to grow even more.

Know School Rankings

Access to quality education is a big selling point to new Edmonton home buyers.  When your are looking for an Edmonton property to invest in, check for schools that are moving up or are at the top of the rank list.  These are often desirable for parents.  There is a lot of useful information on school districts websites.

View the Outskirts

If Edmonton properties in a certain location have become overpriced, the areas on the outer fringes will most likely be in demand soon.  Values of areas close to major bus and rail transportation will certainly increase.

It pays to be prepared. When you want to be successful at something giving yourself whole heartedly. By preparing and expanding your horizons, new doors to worlds you can’t even dream of will open for you!!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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Researchers and trade groups have estimated that the median price of Single Family Homes in Edmonton will be up 3% to 5% this year. While we are still in the early months of 2017, this year is heading in the direction of becoming another seller’s market for  Edmonton Real Estate.  If you are thinking it’s too late to start your real estate journey for 2017 then you are mistaken. With the economy moving forward and the year just getting started, there is still enough time for you to kick your home search into high gear.

Here are some tips for buying Edmonton real estate in a Sellers’ Market!

Don’t Overreach

If you end up participating in a bidding war, you may end up overspending. Then in a market where prices stabilize or sink, paying an inflated price initially can make it hard to resell.  Rather than winning a losing war, look at comparable homes in neighboring areas with similar schools and amenities. Set a bid limit and work to have other deals in the works so that you have other options to choose from.

Always Be Ready

Don’t wait until you find an Edmonton home to get a mortgage, keep yourself pre-approved. If you wait until you find an Edmonton property to get a mortgage, that Edmonton home you have your eye on might be snatched up long before you get approved.

Handy Professionals

Hire a Real Estate Agent to assist you with the buying process. Then after you put in an offer on an Edmonton house, hiring your own inspector to give you a thoroughly analysis of the property will give you a sense of security. Hiring a professional can save you time and money in the long run so consider them as a choice rather than doing everything yourself.

Seek Out Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods

When investing in the real estate market, look out for new or resurgent business centers, light-rail stations, new retailers, schools, restaurants and other commercial tenants. These are signs that prices of Edmonton homes in that area will increase when all the amenities are up and working.

Beware of Hidden Costs

There are hidden costs involved when buying an Edmonton property such as mortgage insurance (depends on your down payment and credit rating), property taxes and other pre-occupancy costs. Always prepare for surprises by having extra money in your bank account beyond the down payment.

Remember, it is never too late to invest in the real estate market. The time for you is now!!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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We have already arrived at the end of the first quarter of 2017 and yet 2016 feels like it was here only yesterday. High demand in certain price markets and low interest rates were the essence of housing sales in 2016 and 2017 is shaping up to be another good year.

Although spring is upon us, it is not too late to sell your Edmonton house this 2017.

Here are some tips for sellers to adapt to the latest market conditions.

Get the Right Agent

A seller’s best investment is time spent researching agents. If you hire a bad agent this can cause you tens of thousands of dollars. With the use of the internet, social marketing sites and agent reviews, information about Edmonton Realtors is plentiful and available.

After you have identified the agent you think you might want to work with, interview them in person. Ask for sales-activity reports, existing listings, time-on-market averages etc. You’ll know an agent has a lot of experience in the market if he or she knows when the best times for open houses are and how to initiate a price war if the market permits it.

Do-It-Yourself

Edmonton home sellers can do several simple things which can improve the appearance of their Edmonton house which then will increase buyer interest and boost their home’s profile:

Clean:

Cleaning is a way of life and there is no way out of it! Cleaning is a must when selling an Edmonton home. It’s hard for buyers to picture themselves living in a home that is messy and dirty!

Depersonalize:

Show that you have more room to spare to potential buyers. Pack up family photos, kids’ toys and store worn out furniture.

Illuminate:

A bright and cheery Edmonton home is very attractive. Open windows, get rid of heavy curtains and add brighter light bulbs in dark areas.

The Greener the Grass the Better

Green grass is a must in an Edmonton property. Surveys show that a great curb appeal can increase value by 10 percent or more. You can do research on how to make your yard more appealing and try improving it yourself. Or you can hire a professional to do the work.

Know the Position of the Market

To sell is to be prepared; knowing what is happening in the real estate market is a priority for any seller. This is where hiring an agent comes in handy – the agent can advise you on what to do if the sale of your Edmonton home encounters some stumbling blocks.

Spring Time

It is much better to showcase your Edmonton home in the spring season rather than doing it in winter when everything is still cold and dead. If you are selling in the winter, prepare in advance and take your smart phone or hand-held camera and take exterior shots when your garden is in bloom.

Don’t wait for a later time in 2017 to start selling your Edmonton house. Nothing like the present!!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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The Edmonton home buying experience should not be a sad process no matter what. It should be an enjoyable experience before and after you buy an Edmonton house.

Before you start searching for that Edmonton dream home, here are some ‘what not to dos’ when buying an Edmonton house.

Not Looking For Help

There are too many Edmonton home buyers who think that they can do everything on their own. They are the ones who are not willing to make the commitment to be helped which is a big risk that they put onto themselves unnecessarily.  Why wouldn’t a buyer want to be supported by a real estate agent who has years of experience in buying and selling Edmonton properties?  Improve your chances of getting that Edmonton dream home by hiring an agent who will guide you through the process.

Not Getting Pre-approval

If you are not pre-approved, it looks like you are not a serious buyer to everyone involved in the process. But by getting yourself pre-approved, you will be taken seriously by sellers and you will know much you can really afford when looking for an Edmonton house.  Staying pre-approve will make things easier when you finally find the right Edmonton house because sometimes it can take longer than expected.

Not Making Sudden Decisions

Do not make sudden decisions such as getting a new job, buying a new car or opening new credit lines before a deal is almost done. This can jeopardize the transaction. Take your time and take advice from your agent for the best course of action, for the most positive development in the buying process.

Not Overpaying

Some Edmonton properties are at competitive price points and they are receiving multiple offers.  This can often result in an over-inflation of home prices. Lenders may take caution with a buyer’ who is willing to pay way beyond the appraisal value of an Edmonton house. The buyer may get rejected for a mortgage outright.

Not Hiding

You hire a real estate agent for a reason. If you have any questions, concerns, wants and needs with the Edmonton buying process then tell it to your agent. Don’t hide anything from them. Be sure to advise of them all specific wants and needs in order to make the buying process efficient and fruitful with only appropriate listings being presented.  By telling your Realtor exactly what you like and dislike in an Edmonton house, searching for the right Edmonton home will become a straightforward process.

Giving your very best even if you don’t win at first will give you the courage to carry on with what you are looking for. The day will come when you find the right house with the right price, with the right terms and it will be yours because you have prepared for that day. So stay prepared!!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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Buying or selling an Edmonton property can become rather simple when you have the right real estate agent to assist you. But how do you know which real estate agent to hire?

Here are some questions to ask before you choose a real estate agent.

Do You Do It As a Full Time Job?

The very first question that you should ask your real estate agent is if they do it as a full-time job. If the answer of is ‘no’ then you had better move on to the next candidate. Will you want someone working for you part time?

Make sure to get an agent who will give you all the effort that you deserve.

What Makes You Different From Other Agents?

Real estate agents have different sets of skills, personalities and work ethics. When you are searching for a real estate agent, find one that can say ‘no’ to you. You want someone who is going to support and prioritize your interests which may put you in conflict with them.

How Will You Negotiate On Our Behalf?

A good question to ask when looking for a real estate agent is how will your real estate agent negotiate on your behalf. Buying and selling Edmonton real estate involves expertise and a positive attitude. A strong negotiating skill is a must for your real estate agent when the time comes to fight for your offer.

What if I’m Not Satisfied with Your Service?

Before you start working with a real estate agent, you should ask what will happen if you are not satisfied with the progress of the buying or selling process. You have the right to move forward with another agent. There should be mutual respect if the agent-client relationship is going to work. You should not be afraid to tell them that you’ve decided to work with someone else.  All agents will tell you that are committed to stellar service but not all will deliver.

Finding the right real estate agent can be almost as daunting as finding the right Edmonton home. It will take time and effort to find the real estate agent that will fit your personality and style so take your time and choose wisely!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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Whether it’s moving in or moving out, one of the least enjoyable parts of buying and selling Edmonton real estate is the moving part. It feels like a chore that you are obligated to do. Before you start packing everything in one box here are some tips you need to know before moving to your Edmonton house!

Preparation

You need a plan before you start moving. Packing should be done in a organized manner which will revolve around your unpacking. Preparing for your relocation is going to involve keeping items sorted by rooms and knowing what is important in the first days in your new house.

Address Change

One of the most important things to do prior to moving is relating your change of address to important people in your life. This includes the bank, the post office and your utility providers.

Ask For Help

You don’t necessarily need to hire a moving company when relocating to your new Edmonton home, though they can be used as a last option. You can ask for help from your close friends and family. You might even find some high school kids looking for extra income willing to help.

Packing

You should have plenty of tools and supplies around to help you with packing. People usually assume that large boxes are for the heavy items. The fact is you should put light objects in larger boxes while the heavier ones should go in smaller boxes. This will make carrying a whole lot easier.

Label

By labelling your inventory you can make your move simple and efficient. Don’t just seal away items in boxes and worry about their location later.

Cleaning

For those who  have purchased an Edmonton house make sure it is clean prior to your move in date. You can order a cleaning service to do it or even family and friends. When the time comes for you to move in you will have peace of mind about the cleanliness of your new home.

Moving in or out can be rewarding especially when you are done with all the work. By planning ahead you will use less time and effort. And by the end of it you can sit back, relax and enjoy your new home!!

Remember to follow Serge on Instagram @SergeBourgoin and get a first hand view on how he’s helping Edmonton homebuyers, sellers and investors.

For a complete list of available Edmonton homes for sale, check out the new Edmonton MLS listings.

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