February 23, 2016

SPRING 2016

REAL ESTATE

RESOURCE DIRECTORY BUYING SELLING MORTGAGES REALTORS INSPECTIONS LANDSCAPING

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The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS The MLS System ..................................................................... 6 How to find the right realtor / Mortgage freedom .................. 7 Closing costs ........................................................................... 8 Bank appraisals ...................................................................... 9 Finding a contractor / Property in shape to sell ..................... 10 Sustainable flooring options ................................................. 11 Secrets to selling a home / Real estate for seniors ................. 12 Mortgage options ................................................................ 13 Boost your home’s value........................................................ 14 Curb appeal .......................................................................... 15 Home renos / Moving tips ..................................................... 16 Renting out your home ......................................................... 18 Home insurance .................................................................... 19 Best price / Clutter-free living ............................................... 20 Plant right ............................................................................. 21 Advertiser’s listings ......................................................... 22-23

The Key to Real Estate Resource Directory is a special supplement to The Parksville Qualicum Beach News. The News is distributed to over 16,500 homes in Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Nanoose, Arrowsmith and Lighthouse Country, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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JOHN HARDING PHOTO

The gulls fly by some houses in Columbia Beach near French Creek, a community nestled between Parksville and Qualicum Beach.

High quality, low price JOHN HARDING editor@pqbnews.com

As housing prices soar in places like Vancouver and Victoria, Parksville Qualicum Beach has become more attractive for buyers — and it’s no longer all about the beauty of the region and a quality-of-life upgrade.

According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, the average price of a home sold in January in this country was $470,297, a 17 per cent increase from the same month last year. In Vancouver, the average detached home was selling for $1.2 million late last year. The Victoria Real Estate Board reports the average sale price — they call it the benchmark price — for single family home in January was $618,000.

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area saw its benchmark price for a single-family home rise 10 per cent in January, compared to the same month last year, according to statistics provided by the Vancouver Island Real Es4

tate Board. You can get that home for $388,000 — less than one-third of the price of the same house in Vancouver.

Ian Lindsay of ReMax First Realty agrees “there’s incredible value here,” but he believes it goes way beyond price.

“I think the Parksville Qualicum Beach area has an incredible community base,” says Lindsay. “It’s a wonderful place to live and we are seeing younger families come back.”

The traffic of the big centres. The long commute. The hustle, the bustle.

Many people are trying to find a way to avoid all that by working from home, often in tech-related businesses. And they are finding they can work from a home in Parksville Qualicum Beach and enjoy a different pace of life.

“We are seeing a steady increase in people who are making a lifestyle choice in benefit of family,” says Lindsay.

Robynne Shaw agrees. She’s the president of the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce.

“If you’re living in Vancouver right now and trying to buy a house and run your business out of it — that’s not too appealing,” says Shaw. “Here, you can buy that home for a third of the price and still do your job — it just makes sense.”

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area doen’t have Vancouver Island’s least expensive homes. There are homes in places like Duncan and Port Alberni that cost less.

“There is very good value for your money here,” says Lindsay, who also says Parksville Qualicum Beach is “strategically well positioned” for people to get on and off the Island or enjoy any part of the Island and its yearround activities.

“In one hour you can have your skis on, or you can be golfing around here.”

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

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What is the MLS system? ®

Multiple Listing Service matchs buyers with properties The Multiple Listing Service® is a co-operative marketing system that maximizes exposure of properties for sale.

It is a central registry of properties used by REALTORS® to match buyers with properties for sale. Most homes sold in Canada are sold via the MLS® systems operated by real estate boards across the country. The MLS® system includes a sophisticated computer database of properties indexed by price, location, type of home, number of bedrooms, amenities and so forth. The VIREB MLS® maintains information on between 4800-7000 active listings of property for sale on the Island. The strength of the MLS® system rests in the quality and accuracy of the information. Government, economists, financial institutions, appraisers and others all rely on MLS® data. This is because REALTORS® who submit the listing information, and MLS® staff at real estate boards who conduct quality control, are trained and educated in the complexities of real estate.

REALTORS® know how to describe a property accurately and what information must be disclosed in an MLS® listing. For instance, if there is a restriction on the use of a property, something called an easement, this information must appear in the MLS® listing. Also, the MLS® connects

buyers and sellers. If the MLS® system did not exist, sellers would have to choose an individual real estate brokerage to list their home and only that brokerage would have the information about it and the ability to show and sell it. If the MLS® system did not exist, buyers would have to go from REALTOR® to REALTOR® to view the listings of each individual brokerage. Many alternate systems and services exist to buy and sell homes and they all compete for customers.

The MLS® is the REALTOR® option. A large part of the REALTORS® job lies in finding properties that meet a buyer’s needs. Using the MLS®, a REALTOR® can search the database for homes that suit budgets, location preferences and family requirements, and quickly put together a short list of suitable homes. This way a buyer can decide what home they want to see, what their options are and what types of properties the market has to offer. For sellers, the MLS®, matches your property with as many qualified, motivated buyers as possible. The MLS® exposes your property to people most likely to purchase it. When you make the decision to sell ensure you ask your REALTOR® about an MLS® listing.

- This article was prepared by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board. “An Association of REALTORS”, for the information and benefit of consumers.

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The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

How to find the right realtor Buying a home is often a difficult thing to do. The stress of making such a big financial commitment is a struggle for many home buyers, whether you have purchased a home in the past or are doing so for the first time.

One way to make the process a lot less anxiety-ridden is to work with a real estate agent you can trust.

If you are in the market for a real estate agent to help navigate the home buying process, you should consider the following tips.

AGENT FIRST, THEN A PROPERTY

expert tip HOW TO FLOOD PROOF YOUR HOME

This allows you to choose your agent based on their merit and not due to the houses he or she may have listed.

A TRACK RECORD When interviewing real estate agents, inquire about their history in the business. A more experienced agent will make things far less stressful and easier, and a long career indicates they are good at what they do.

AGENCY SIZE Don't place too much emphasis on agency size. Real estate agencies come in all shapes and sizes. When it comes to ability, the size of the agency should

not factor in. A smaller independent agency can be just as qualified and reliable as one of the major franchise agencies.

Buyers who find someone they trust should go with that person, regardless of how big or small their agency is.

GET A REFERRAL. Friends and family members who have been through the buying process before are great resources.

If you are relocating because of work, you should ask your company to refer an agent or ask to be referred by your hometown REALTORÂŽ.

Any home with floor drains or plumbing fixtures below street level can flood, and this can be due to inclement weather, such as heavy rain, local sewer system backup, or groundwater swelling.

While homeowners won't be able to control the weather, they can take steps to flood proof their home. If the ground around your home's foundation slopes toward the house, make some grading changes so that the ground slopes away from the home. Clean gutters and downspouts in the spring and late fall of all debris, to ensure water is effectively being diverted away from the home. Inspect your home's foundation, chimney, etc for cracks at least once a year.

Enjoy mortgage freedom The fast track to mortgage freedom

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low interest rate is often seen as the best way to save money on a mortgage and the quickest route to becoming mortgage-free. But that’s only one part of an effective strategy. It is equally important to look for a mortgage with flexible terms. The average Canadian homeowner will pay his or her mortgage off in approximately 25 years. Less than half (42 per cent) of homeowners are taking advantage of options that allow them to shave years off their mortgage and save on interest costs.

Here are three tips to get you on your way to mortgage freedom:

1. ADOPT A BI-WEEKLY PAYMENT SCHEDULE A bi-weekly payment is often the easiest adjustment you can do to help you save on mortgage interest - especially if you line it up with your pay cheque. You end up making 26 smaller bi-weekly payments a year, versus 12 large monthly payments resulting in interest cost savings as you pay down your principal faster. Bi-weekly payments will shave years off your mortgage.

2. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PREPAYMENT PRIVILEGES A flexible mortgage may include

features such as doubling up a payment or putting down a lump sum at the end of the year. These additional payments are applied directly to your mortgage principal and will reduce your amortization period.

3. ROUND UP YOUR PAYMENT You can chip away at your mortgage without missing a beat by rounding-up your payment amount. For example, if your bi-weekly mortgage payment is $557, by rounding up your payment to $600, you could put an additional $1,000 per year towards the principal and be mortgage-free faster.

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Budget for closing costs

Additional expenses that should be included in the budget Closing costs are the legal, administrative and disbursement fees associated with buying a home. Understanding these fees will help you budget more accurately. Remember, these are additional costs over and above the price of the home.

HAVE YOU BUDGETED FOR THE ASSOCIATED LEGAL COSTS? Legal costs are your lawyer or notary fees. These may include: • Reviewing the terms of the offer • Conducting a title search on the property • Registering a new title • Obtaining relevant documents, such as surveys and evidence of liens on the property • Checking the statement of adjustments for taxes, utility and fuel bills, and other costs that have been pre-paid by the seller at the date of closing.

WHAT OTHER COSTS CAN YOU EXPECT? • Interest adjustments between date of closing and the first mortgage payment • GST on a new home or a home that’s been extensively renovated • Land Transfer Tax • Service charges from utility companies for hook-ups on electricity, gas, internet and telephone services • Appraisal fees • Home Inspection • Title insurance • Property and content insurance • Moving costs • Storage costs if you must leave your current residence before you are able to move into your new home • Furniture and appliances • Real estate commissions if you are the seller While purchasing real estate has a variety of costs associated with it, home ownership is a secure investment that appreciates in value over the long-term.

- Courtesy of CREA & the Financial Consumer Agency

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The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

What a bank appraisal means to your purchase Many sellers think that the price they can get for their home is determined solely by the amount they are willing to accept and the buyers are willing to pay. There is one more variable that can influence the sale of a home – the lender’s appraisal. To protect their investors, mortgage lenders may hire an appraiser to give an independent, objective evaluation of what the property is worth. Predominant value, facilities and improvements are all considered in the appraisal of a property. They may also use electronic appraisals from CMHC (Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation) called Emili.

Buyers and sellers look at a property as a home, or an investment, but lenders see the same real estate in different terms.

To a lender, the property is security in the event that a borrower fails to repay a mortgage. If you get a $280,000 loan se-

cured by your $300,000 home, the lender does not want to find out later that the house is worth only $250,000.

To limit their risks, lenders want a precise, but conservative, estimate of value before making a loan. So lenders get an appraisal to make an objective evaluation of the property’s worth. The appraisal provides to the lender several key pieces of information in addition to a replacement cost estimate and market analysis.

If an appraiser is used, their job is to come up with an objective opinion of the property’s value. The principal tools used in an appraisal are recently sold comparable properties in the same area. After inspecting the “comparables”, the appraiser adjusts the value of the house, by evaluating the condition of the property.

Lenders use the appraisal to cap the loan amount.

DID YOU KNOW? LAND TRANSFER TAX The land transfer tax or Property Transfer Tax (PTT) is a one time tax levied by your province when you purchase a property. The tax is based on a percentage of the purchase price of the property, and varies from province to province. In BC the transfer tax rate is 1% of the first $200,000 and 2% on the remaining balance of the purchase price. This tax applies to all homes purchased, both new and used. If you are a first time buyer, check with your lender, you may be exempt from this tax.

HOME INSPECTION A home inspector assesses a property’s condition and can tell you if something is not working properly, needs to be changed, or is unsafe. Frequently properties are serviced with wells and septic systems. Inspection of these services is advisable and is often required by lenders.

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Tips for finding a contractor Contractors should be fully licensed and willing to work with you Home improvement projects tend to be costly. Because of the considerable financial investment homeowners must make when improving their homes, it’s important to find a contractor you can trust and feel comfortable with.

The vast majority of professional contractors are trustworthy and willing to work with homeowners to help them design the homes of their dreams. But there are still some tips homeowners can keep in mind as they begin their search for a contractor.

Work only with licensed contractors. Licensed contractors have been verified as legitimate by your local governing body, removing much of the fears homeowners have with regard to finding trustworthy contractors. Unlicensed contractors may not be insured or bonded, and their estimates may be lower than their licensed competitors’ because they do not contribute to unemployment. Licensed contractors often are subjected to criminal background checks as well, calming homeowners’ fears about inviting strangers into their homes.

Ask for recommendations.

Word-of-mouth is great when looking for contractors. Oftentimes, a contractor’s best friends are his past clients. Ask friends or

neighbors for recommendations on local contractors, inquiring about prices as well as each particular contractor’s demeanor and openness to suggestions. Contact your local Office of Consumer Affairs to check each contractor’s complaint history.

Get written estimates. Before hiring a particular firm, get written estimates from several contractors.

Some contractors will charge fees for the estimate, but they must inform you of those fees before the estimates are provided. Compare estimates so you can get a better grasp of how much your project will cost. While cost is important, try to avoid choosing a contractor based on cost alone, as a good rapport with a contractor who may be more expensive might make spending a little more money worth it.

Make sure the contract is specific.

When you choose a contractor, make sure the contract he or she provides is very specific, going into great detail about the specifics of the project. This contract should spell out the materials and equipment that will be used, as well as the final cost of the project, the payment schedules while the project is ongoing and the work schedule.

Keep track of all paperwork and pay by check. Once you sign the

Take a look around your house. If you were a prospective buyer, would you be interested? A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) will compare your home to similar homes that have recently sold in your neighbourhood in order to calculate your homes value in your market. However, the shape your home is in, will also help determine its value in the eyes of prospective buyers.

It's sometimes difficult, but you must

see your home through a buyers eyes and address the imperfections. Before you embark on significant renovations, your REALTOR® will help you answer these two questions: Will this make my home more desirable to buyers? Will this increase the value of my home more than it costs to do it?

Some repairs are absolutely vital.

It's against the law to knowingly sell your home with a material latent de-

contract, create a folder where you can store all paperwork. Scan each document so you can store them on your computer as well. When payments must be made, never pay in cash. Pay by check and do not pay for the entirety of the project upfront, opting instead to pay at predetermined intervals spelled out in your contract.

Nerves often come into play when hiring a home contractor, but homeowners who take a careful approach to the hiring process will likely end up hiring a trustworthy contractor who does great work.

Is your property in shape to sell?

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fect and not disclose it to the buyer.

But how do you know which home improvements will make your homes value jump, and which won't? It’s well documented that the best return on your remodeling dollar is in the kitchen, bathrooms and landscaping the front yard.

Basements and bedrooms can be a waste of time and money.

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

Sustainable flooring options Kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects tend to make great investments, earning homeowners significant returns when they sell their homes down the road. But flooring upgrades are another home renovation project that can attract attention and help sellers when they put their homes on the market.

Home flooring options abound, and it is easy to get excited and overwhelmed about flooring renovation projects. When choosing new flooring materials, homeowners should keep in mind the latest consumer trends, as those trends might help them recoup more of their flooring investment down the road.

One popular flooring trend is the use of sustainable materials. In addition to the more widely known benefits of choosing sustainable flooring, such as protecting natural

Bamboo: Contrary to popular belief, bamboo is not a wood, but a grass. It is a fast-growing grass, and that makes it a smart choice in many design applications. Also, unlike wood, which will absorb moisture and can warp, bamboo repels water and can be used for flooring in areas where one wouldn’t think to put wood, such as in bathrooms, entryways or mudrooms.

Water-based, low-VOC adhesives paired with recycled cotton padding can reduce the toxicity and impact of carpeting even further.

Cork: Growing in popularity, cork is a material harvested from the bark of cork trees found in the forests of the Mediterranean. The bark grows back every three years, so it is a handy renewable resource. Cork boasts fire-retardant properties and may naturally repel insects.

Green carpeting: Consumers can now find a wide range of sustainable carpets and rugs that are available at competitive prices. Wool carpets made with undyed or vegetable-dyed yarns and minimal glues are some options.

Reclaimed wood: Rather than purchasing brand new hardwood planks for flooring, homeowners can opt for reclaimed wood reused from other building applications.

resources and reducing a home’s carbon footprint, sustainable flooring can help reduce indoor air pollution.

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Real Estate for Seniors Downsizing doesn’t have to mean downgrading

If the kids are gone, and the nest is feeling decidedly empty, you might be thinking of a new home. But before you do, there are a couple of important things to consider. First of all, you’re not alone. More than half of the baby boomers responding to a recent survey said they plan to relocate when they retire. They represent a growing and influential demographic that is reshaping retirement living.

Downsizing does not mean downgrading. It’s estimated that one-fourth of homebuyers aged 50 and older are paying more for the home of their golden years than for their previous house. They want to live in residences that are both comfortable and elegant, allowing them to maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle with dignity.

Still, it is a big decision. Getting professional guidance can help ensure the home you buy meets your needs today and tomorrow. Location is an important factor. Finding a home close to shopping, leisure activities and medical services can reduce driving and transportation costs (maybe even eliminate the need for second vehicle).

If you are thinking of a single family home, think long term. With a little remodeling, a house can be modified to meet your needs and keep you at home as long as possible during your retirement years.

For example, you might want to consider ensuring the master bedroom and bathroom are on the ground floor of a house, and at least one en-

trance does not have steps. Building additional space into the home design, such as extra-wide hallways and doors, allows those with wheelchairs, walkers or crutches to get around more easily.

You might also want to consider extra large bathrooms with safety features such as grab bars that help prevent falls, lever door handles that are easier to operate, and electrical switches and thermostats that are positioned lower than usual.

Many newer multi-unit complexes are integrating more “aging in place” features. These properties often require less maintenance and are better geared toward an older demographic.

Your Realtor® can help narrow your choices.

Secrets to selling a home

15 secrets that will help your home sell

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here are some quick and inexpensive ways to make your home shine. As anyone in the real estate industry will tell you, it's important to make your home look its best when it comes time to show it. That first impression is everything and even if you are in a great market, its still key to tidy up your home and prove that its worth every penny you are asking for. If done well, these steps will make a remarkable difference, and do not cost a fortune.

1. Stay on top of your lawn mowing and front landscaping.

2. Embellish your front door area with potted plants, a welcome mat and a fresh coat of paint on the door and trim.

3. Move all toys, bicycles etc. away, and keep them away from the front of the house.

4. Clean your windows and fireplace.

5. Check and roof and repair or replace any loose shingles or gutters.

6. Remove all the clutter. Make sure kitchen and bathroom counter tops are as clear as possible, keep toys organized and contained, remove excess collectables and the family photo "wall of fame".

7. Hang fresh colour coordinated towels in the bathrooms.

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8. Vacuum everyday and clean the carpets.

9. Make sure all your facets are drip-free and replace all burnt out light bulbs.

10. Clean all your appliances thoroughly including the inside of your oven and microwave. Yes, buyers will look in there.

11. Place a decorative arrangement in the center of your table.

12. Eliminate odors using odor neutralizing products, do not try and mask smells with another smell, it will only compound the problem.

13. Let the light shine in. Open all blinds and curtains when the house is being shown.

14. If your rooms are filled with oversized, or simply too much furniture to move around freely, place some of it in storage.

15. Add a few final touches like fresh flowers, or potted plants in decorative containers, they can do wonders.

Just remember that everyone has their own style and you are not trying to impress buyers with your decor. Rather, you goal is to present a clean and attractive home, oozing with potential for your homes next owners.

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

Mortgage options

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mortgage is a loan, generally used to buy a property. How much you pay depends on how much you borrow (the principal), the loans interest rate, and how long you take to pay it back (the amortization period).

Fixed rate mortgages: Your interest rate is locked in for a specified period called a term. Your payments stay the same for the mortgage's term so you will not pay more if interest rates increase over time.

Variable rate mortgages: The mortgage rate of interest you pay will change if the rates go up or down.

Conventional mortgages: Require a down payment of more than 20% of the property's value. You are not required to get mortgage default insurance with a conventional mortgage.

Closed mortgages: The mortgage cannot be paid off early during its term, without paying a penalty.

Open mortgages: A mortgage that can be paid off at any time during the term, without having to pay a penalty.

The interest rate for an open mortgage may be higher than a closed mortgage with the same term.

Portable mortgages: If you sell your existing home, you can transfer your mortgage to your new home while keeping your existing interest rate. You may be able to avoid prepayment charges (penalties) by porting your mortgage.

Prepayment privileges: You can make lump-sum prepayments or increase your monthly payments without having to pay a charge. This can help you pay off your mortgage quicker and save on interest charges.

By switching from monthly payments to accelerated weekly or bi-weekly payments, you can pay off your mortgage much quicker. Explore all your options for mortgage payments with your lender and see just how much interest you could save.

- Courtesy of CREA & the Financial Consumer Agency

DID YOU KNOW? SMALLER HOMES From the early 1990s to the beginning of this century, "bigger is better" certainly was the mantra of the home-building industry.

But according to new data, home buyers are seeking less space today, but more in green amenities.

Research by the Canadian Home Builders' Association has found that many people now desire smaller homes with multipurpose rooms and energy saving features. Family rooms have grown larger, as well as kitchens.

Other rooms in new homes are disappearing, including the living room and the formal dining room.

Energy efficient homes are now a priority for buyers. Although the homes may be smaller, they come with a host of amenities today, that will make the smaller size barely noticeable.

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Boost value

Easy ways to boost your home’s value

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egardless of the current housing market, if you have decided to sell, there are always buyers out there looking for a place to call their own. There are easy ways to boost your home's value and some minor changes to a home can add to your asking price.

The following tasks might not take much effort, but they pay dividends.

An appealing lawn is still a great way to catch a prospective buyer's eye. When a home boasts a lush l awn and well-manicured trees, it's hard to ignore that For Sale sign out front.

If landscaping has proven an Achilles' heel in the past, make an effort to take better care of your property in the months ahead. It doesn't take long for even the most neglected lawn to rebound from disrepair.

REPLACE THE CARPET A clean carpet might make a world of difference to those living in your home, but a new carpet will be even more appealing to prospective buyers.

Choose a neutral-toned carpet that will boast a more universal appeal.

Prospective buyers won't be thrilled if they walk into a home and see outdated appliances. Some might even see older appliances and begin to wonder if there are any additional areas that might have been neglected around the house. Stainless steel appliances in the kitchen and even new fixtures in the bathroom are aesthetically appealing and tend to excite buyers.

PAINT THE HOME A fresh coat of paint or new siding is always attractive to prospective buyers. Many buyers judge a book by its cover, and you want your home's exterior to be as attractive as possible. You can also paint rooms inside the home to give it a fresh and welcoming feel.

WORK ON THE YARD

UPGRADE APPLIANCES

CLEAN UP AROUND THE HOUSE A cluttered house will almost certainly repel buyers. Buyers want a home that's roomy and well kept, but clutter creates the opposite impression. Organize the closets to make them appear more roomy and clean up any areas that have become cluttered -- consider temporarily renting a storage unit to house your excess belongings. The less clutter a home has, the more spacious it will appear and the more money you can likely demand for your home.

Home value

resale value. If the exterior paint is out of the ordinary, then it might be wise to choose a more traditional or conservative colour before erecting the “For Sale” sign out front. The same goes for your home’s interior. A more traditional interior decor might help your home sell faster.

LOCATION Your home’s location is arguably its best or worst selling point. A home in a great location won’t be as difficult to sell as a home in a less desirable neighbourhood.

SIZE AND STYLE Another thing to consider when selling your home is its size and style. A home that stands out on the block might be an attention-grabber, but that’s not always attractive to prospective buyers. For instance, a colonial sitting in the middle of a street filled with contemporary homes will stand out, but likely for all the wrong reasons. It will likely appear dated and out of place, which is something buyers might not want.

NON-CONFORMITY When selling your home, conformity could make the difference between it selling quickly or remaining on the market for months and months. For instance, if you are trying to sell a two bedroom rancher in a neighbourhood filled with three plus bedroom two storey homes, you might notice your home’s value is not as high as that of surrounding homes, regardless of the neighbourhood or how similar your home’s exterior is to the surrounding homes.

Factors that might hurt your home’s value

APPEARANCE Your home’s appearance is another obvious variable that might affect its 14

AGE Older homes might have character and a sense of nostalgia, but appraisers take age into consideration when determining a home’s value.

Your REALTOR® will consider all factors of your home, both positive and negative when preparing your market evaluation.

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

Curb appeal When selling a home, you can employ a number of tactics to improve your home’s curb appeal. Curb appeal is dressing your home up to make a strong first impression on prospective buyers. Many buyers will form an opinion about your property before they even get out of their car.

A home with strong curb appeal can entice buyers who are likely to believe that a home with a well-maintained exterior is likely to have an equally impressive interior.

The most effective way to improve curb appeal is to clean up the property. Remove toys and other items from the yard before showing your home. Make sure all hedges are trimmed and remove weeds, from any flower beds and lay fresh mulch. Make sure all plants, are living. Dehydrated or dead plants and flowers are eyesores, and they will give buyers the impression that you didn’t pay much attention to your property.

Add pots with colourful seasonal flowers by the front door. Edging is another easy and effective way to improve curb appeal. Edge your lawn and gardens around driveways, sidewalks and other walkways on the property.

Many homeowners grow accustomed to overgrown trees around

their property and may not notice that low-hanging branches are hiding the home from view. Buyers want to see the house, so trim any branches that hang too low or obscure your home.

Clean the gutters thoroughly before putting your home up for sale and keep them clean throughout the selling process and pressure wash your walkways and deck.

Many homeowners enter their home through a side door or through their garage. If you fall into this category, keep in mind that prospective buyers will be entering through the front door, so make this area accessible and appealing.

Make the entry sparkle and be sure to put out the welcome mat to greet potential buyers.

For each mortgage payment you make, the money is first used to pay the interest on your mortgage loan. The remaining portion of your payment is then used to reduce the principal, which is the amount that you borrowed from the lender.

In the first years of the mortgage, most of the payment is usually required to cover INTEREST VS PRINCIPLE interest costs. As a result, the principal, or the amount that you owe, may decrease by only a very small amount. As the mortgage balance decreases over the years, more of your payment is used to pay off the principle.

DID YOU KNOW?

★ ★★ ★★

Matt Breedlove “For every move you make” Award-winning Real Estate Service since 1993 What some of Matt’s Clients have to say “Matt ‘suggests’, but doesn’t ‘push’ which greatly impressed us and he has a wonderful, friendly personality. I say with great sincerity, Matt has been the best Realtor we have ever had!” Terry & Marg Coleman

Buying or Selling Please Call Matt

“Matt always encouraged us with his enthusiasm and optimism. Matt’s marketing skills were exceptional in that several clients were quite impressed with the presentation of our home via the Internet, newspapers and real estate magazines. The result of these skills led to the successful sale of our home. The office of Royal LePage in Qualicum Beach is extremely fortunate to have Matt Breedlove as part of their team.” Steven & Sophia Caudle

250.954.9033 sold@mattbreedlove.com www.breedloverealestate.ca

“Matt Breedlove was the agent for our house which recently sold. We want you to know his efficiency, attentiveness, courtesy and professionalism was exemplary. We were most fortunate to have a Real Estate Agent of such SALES MASTER SALES ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AWARD high caliber.” Anna Spencer & Eric Smith

Parksville-Qualicum Beach Realty Parksville-Qualicum Beach Realty Independently Owned and Operated Independently Owned and Operated

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Home renos

However, some may be discouraged by a home that has too many bright colours or textures on the walls and trim. Buyers often want homes that are move in ready, meaning they can get settled in before taking on large projects. Dark colours do not easily disappear, and taping off and painting trim work or changing it entirely can be equally time consuming. Stick with neutral colors when selling your home, even if this means giving your rooms a new coat of paint before Home improvements are typical- putting it on the market. ly made to improve the functionality and look of a home, but renovations OUTDOOR HOT TUBS AND also can increase the value of a home. INDOOR SPA TUBS Many people find soaking in a bubCertain changes to a home can make it more attractive to prospective buyers, bling brew of hot water quite inviting. while other renovations may make a But buyers often do not want to inherit a used hot tub. Although hot tubs are home less appealing. cleaned and maintained with sanitizCONVERSIONS ing chemicals, some people still view Changing a rooms traditional func- them as unsanitary. Removing a hot tion often turns off buyers. For exam- tub can be labour intensive. And much ple, turning a garage into a home gym like a pool, a hot tub may not be apmight seem like a great idea for you, pealing to buyers with young children. but it may not be so appealing to prospective buyers. Buyers can certainly REMOVING CLOSETS Closet space is often high on a buyreconvert the space, but they would consider the costs of such a conversion ers priority list. Turning closet space when making their offer on your home. into an office or removing a closet to make a room bigger may be fine if STYLIZED COLOURS you are staying put, but can be a turn Painting over unappealing colours is off for prospective buyers. a project many homeowners can handle.

Some renovations can actaully make your home less appealing

TOO MANY FEATURES Some homeowners over improve their home to the point that it outshines all others on the street. Homeowners may struggle to sell a home that is disproportionate to other homes in the area. Practice moderation when making improvements to attract more buyers.

Making informed choices before renovating can help homeowners recoup the largest share of their investments. So if resale value is on your mind, consult with your REALTOR® before starting a project.

Moving tips for self-movers Not all of us can afford to use a professional mover and it can be heard to justify if your move is local.

One investment that is worth it’s weight in gold is the rental of a storage locker. Once you decide to list your home you can begin your packing and start moving seldom used items to the storage locker right away.

This will take a lot of pressure off of the moving day as you can get moved in first, and only empty the storage unit when things are more organized in your new home. Think seasonally.

If it is summer pack up your winter clothes, Christmas décor, snow shov16

els and put them at the back of the storage unit. Also box up most of your books, record collections, and seldom used tools and small appliances. These are some of the heavier items that you can move over to the locker just a few at a time. Think first in, last out. This has the added bonus of making your home less cluttered and easier to keep in order once potential buyers start coming through.

Remembering what is where, is also a big unpacking challenge. Nothing is as frustrating as having to tear open 10 boxes just to find a can opener. This might seem a bit nerdy but if you put

big numbers on all sides of the boxes and keep a notebook with what is in each box you will be able to find those items quickly as you unpack.

Also it adds a layer of security if you are hiring help for moving as the box contents i.e. coin collection, aren’t labelled on the outside making valuables easy to identify.

If you have pets find a friend or family member who can take your pets for moving day and perhaps the day after. Moving can be very stressful for them and keeping track of them with all the in and out of house and yard is difficult.

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

WATCH FOR THE MONTHLY REAL ESTATE GUIDE Available the first Thursday of each month, in The News

realestate MONTHLY GUIDE

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Your FREE Source For Homes & Commercial Properties...compliments of your local Realtors

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Renting out your home Factors to consider before renting out your home Renting out a home is a great way for homeowners to earn some extra income. Some homeowners see renting their homes as a long-term commitment to their financial futures.

Being a landlord has its advantages and disadvantages, and the decision to rent out a home is one that homeowners should not take lightly. The following are a handful of factors homeowners should consider as they try to decide if renting out their homes is the right move for them.

TIME Being a landlord is a 24/7/365 commitment, as tenants will expect their landlords to be on call at all times. Tenants will call their landlords should plumbing fixtures suddenly burst in the middle of the night, and landlords must be available to answer such calls no matter how inconvenient they become. If you are not willing or able to devote the time necessary to tend to tenant needs, then being a landlord may not be for you.

MAINTENANCE Whereas homeowners may be able to delay making certain repairs in the homes where they lay their heads, such a luxury is not afforded when they are renting out their other properties. Repairs and maintenance of rental properties cannot be put on the back burner while you save money to fix them. In addition, if even minor repairs typically pose a problem for you, you may soon discover that hiring a handyman or discounting rent for live-in supers is cutting into your profits or making it difficult to pay bills. Before deciding to rent out your home, determine the potential costs of maintaining a second property.

TENANTS Many people who have rented have a horror story or two about an absentee or indifferent landlord,

but landlords also have their own such stories about nightmare tenants. When mulling whether or not to rent out your home, consider who your prospective tenants will be and if your community will supply the steady stream of renters you will need to pay your mortgage and bills without jeopardizing your finances.

HELP Many landlords work with local real estate agencies or property management firms who will do much of the legwork with regard to finding tenants and maintaining properties. Research the cost of such help to determine if you can afford it and still make renting your home financially viable.

Renting a home is a great way to earn extra income, but homeowners must consider a host of factors before putting their homes up for rent.

DID YOU KNOW? INTERIOR COLOUR CHOICES

MORTGAGE DEFAULT INSURANCE

Colour is the most important tool in the toolbox, and one of the most inexpensive ways to infuse the home with colour is with paint. Although staying neutral is a good idea when selling your home, if you have just purchased a home, you may want to add some of your personality to it. Start small with paint or decor accents that are inexpensive. This way, you can always change your mind if you feel you made a mistake.

When you are planning to buy a home with less than a 20% down payment, the mortgage needs to be insured against default. This type of insurance protects the mortgage lender in case you are not able to make your mortgage payments. It does not protect you.

If you are planning to purchase a property with less than a 20% downpayment, you will require mortgage default insurance.

This generally adds a premium to the cost of borrowing, based on the percentage of your homes’ value that you need to finance.

18

This premium can be added to your mortgage balance.

Mortgage default insurance enables you to purchase a home with a minimum downpayment of 5% with interest rates comparable to those of a conventional mortgage.

Major providers of mortgage default insurance include Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Genworth Financial Canada, and Canada Guaranty Mortgage Insurance Company.

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

Home insurance Tips for making sure you’re covered

When you are in the process of purchasing a home, your mortgage lender will require proof of insurance before your mortgage funds are disbursed. Home insurance coverage can vary from one company to another and from one policy to another so it pays to ask questions.

What does my home policy cover?

Some policies cover only 'named perils' - in other words, if the cause of the damage isn't listed in your policy, it isn't covered. This is generally referred to as a 'standard' policy. Other policies cover 'all risks' on the buildings and named perils on the contents of your home. This is generally referred to as a 'broad form' policy.

There are policies which cover all risks on both the building and its contents, but are subject to some exclusions. These are

generally referred to as 'comprehensive' or 'special' policies.

Is there specific insurance for the type of home I live in?

Yes. If you own a house, homeowner's insurance is available to protect your property and liability of you (policy-holder), your spouse/partner and your children. If you own a condominium, there are specific types of coverage you can purchase in addition to liability and contents coverage. If you rent, tenant's insurance can help you replace your belongings after an insured loss.

Is optional coverage available for perils not normally included?

Yes. For example, you might consider buying optional earthquake coverage. If you are worried about water damage from rainstorms, you might want sewer back up coverage.

What things could happen to my property that won't be covered?

Here's one example: damage arising from the freezing of indoor plumbing is seen as preventable. So, if you are away from home for more than three consecu-

tive days (be sure to verify your insurer's stipulations) during the normal heating season, you must drain the plumbing or arrange to have your home checked daily to ensure that heat is maintained.

What are some items that might require additional insurance?

The standard dollar limits to replace stolen cash, garden tractors, watercraft , etc are relatively small, so you may want to buy additional coverage. Limits may also apply if the following items are stolen: bicycles, jewelry, watches, furs, coin, stamp and card collections.

What is the difference between replacement cost and cash value?

Most claims on home insurance policies are paid on a replacement cost basis, meaning that the insurance covers the cost of replacing a damaged or lost item with a new one that is as close to the original as possible in functionality and quality. If you choose not to replace a damaged item, your insurer will pay only the actual cash value of that item - that is, the replacement cost less any depreciation in the value of the item.

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1 2

Best price 3 Get the best price when selling your home in 5 steps

With sellers hoping to get the most possible for a home and buyers interested in spending the least, it’s sometimes a battle of wills when it comes to hashing out a confirmed price in the world of real estate.

4 5

Clutter free living De-cluttering will actually change your life Who hasn’t heard of de-cluttering?

In preparing a home for sale, de-cluttering is one of the recommendations suggested by realtors and stagers. But what about de-cluttering if you are not selling your home? Did you know de-cluttering will actually change your life? Let me define clutter.

Clutter is something that’s tucked away in our closet (or in the back of our mind), that silently weighs on us and takes up space that could be used for something else. Either way, our physical, 20

WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET

It's difficult to change first impressions. Individuals do judge a book by its cover, which means that effort should be put into making your home's exterior as appealing as possible. Landscaping should be neat and lush. Items that look in disrepair should be mended. Curb appeal does matter.

USE A REAL ESTATE AGENT

A real estate agent is schooled in the process of negotiating the price of an offered home. Furthermore, agents know the average sale prices of similar homes and can help a seller price and market a property correctly. This may add up to a faster sale (and a better offer).

PRICE YOUR HOME COMPETITIVELY

Some sellers think the higher they price their home the more money they'll get for it. The fact is, the longer an overpriced home sits on the market, the less appealing it will appear to buyers. Individuals looking for a home may repeatedly see the listing and wonder what's wrong with the home.

GIVE PEOPLE WHAT THEY WANT

Buyers often prefer updated kitchens and bathrooms. Most buyers are not looking for "handyman specials." Home shoppers may be more inclined to go closer to asking price if some of the bigger-ticket items are already completed.

DON'T BE AN OPEN BOOK

If a buyer knows that time is of the essence or the home is "priced to sell," they may sense that desperation, almost guaranteeing a low-ball offer. Do not make it seem like you will be in dire straights if your home doesn't sell quickly. Selling a home under duress is not likely to cause prospective buyers to pony up.

emotional, and mental clutter drains our time and energy, takes up space, keeps us stuck in the past, and blocks new things and opportunities from coming into our lives. People are always wondering why they are tired. Well, besides our society not getting enough sleep, the other culprit to look at is clutter. When you walk into a cluttered room or a disorganized closet, your heart gets heavy.

This clutter is, in fact, negativity breeding in your home. It is making you tired and draining your energy.

So, why don’t you get a handle on clutter? Wouldn’t you want more energy and joy in your life? If you are like a lot of people, you’ve spent a lot of money and you can’t stand the idea of wasting it. But think about it—if you aren’t using it, it is a greater “waste” to keep it when someone else could use it!

Unwanted gifts can be particularly challenging for many people to let go of. Just remember, you can appreciate the thought and effort and also value the person regardless of whether you

keep the material representation of their thoughtfulness.

You do not need an abundance of objects to remind you of a meaningful time in your life. If the time in question is that special, you will always remember and be able to recapture those feelings just by thinking about those memories. You can take a picture of the object rather than keep the object itself.

Now, let’s take a moment to check in with the objects in your home. When you look at them or use them, do they make you feel good, neutral, or bad?

Do you love it? If you don’t love it, release it. Clutter is being surrounded by things you don’t love or don’t need.

Even if you aren’t sure why you don’t like something—trust your intuition and let it go.

Just think less clutter means less dusting!

- Courtesy of Vicki Lerch, Sold On Staging. If you have questions about home staging or redesign, send to vicki@soldonstaging.ca

The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

Plant right

•

Save water and money Many communities endure drysummers characterized by warm temperatures and infrequent rainfall. In such locales, local governments typically institute water restrictions on local landowners. These restrictions limit the amount of water homeowners can use to maintain their properties, and some homeowners choose to install new irrigation systems in an effort to help their lawns and garden survive the potentially harsh summer weather.

While new irrigation systems can be effective, homeowners looking for alternatives to such systems can find ways to save both water and money.

Planting right is a great way to conserve water and save money.

Learn about native plants and grasses. The most beautiful lawns and gardens in the dog days of summer are not necessarily those owned by the most obsessive homeowners. Instead, these homeowners might just have chosen grass and plants native to the local climate and therefore more capable of handling the ups and downs of that climate. When choosing grass and plants for your lawn, consult with a local lawn care professional if you’re hesitant to choose your own grass and plants. For example, if your home is located in a region where summer drought is commonplace, then grass and plants that do not need much water might be your best option.

Aerate the soil. Healthy soil can help to protect grass and plants forced to cope with harsh conditions. Aeration is a process by which soil is punctured with spikes or cores of soil are removed from the ground to improve drainage and water penetration. Operating an aerator in the yard can be challenging, so it’s often best to leave

•

LET ME WORK FOR YOU!

such a project to the professionals. But when planting in a garden, homeowners can turn and cultivate the soil to improve its moisture retention with a goal toward growing healthier plants.

Choose the right season to plant.

Some plants thrive when planted during certain times of the year, but many plants should not be planted during the summertime. When planted in the summer, plants typically need more water to establish themselves because the temperatures are hotter. Spring or fall tend to be the best seasons to plant, but homeowners can consult a local lawn and garden professional to determine the best time to plant in their specific region.

Lay mulch around bushes, plants, shrubs and trees. Many homeowners find laying mulch around their property adds to the property’s visual appeal.

But mulch also is practical, helping soil to retain its moisture and reduce evaporation. In addition, mulch helps curtail the growth of weeds, which compete with existing plants for water.

•

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The KEY to Real ESTATE Resource Guide - February 2016

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ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY Matt Breedlove Realtor© - Royal LePage Parksville Qualicum Beach Realty 679 Memorial, Qualicum Beach 250-954-9033 • www.breedloverealestate.ca

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