IT'S JUST A HOUSE

02 May, 2018

undefinedNewspaper headlines identify a chill in Canada’s real estate market. These reports focus primarily on the previously overheated markets in Vancouver and Toronto. Here in Kingston, we are experiencing something quite different. Our spring market has a low number of properties for sale and a relatively healthy number of buyers. This results in what is known as a seller’s market.

In a seller’s market it is more likely that a listed property attracts multiple offers. Buyers sometimes fear losing out in a multiple offer situation, and may be tempted to offer well above the asking price. In these situations it is fairly common for a home to sell for 5-10% or even more over the asking price.

As a buyer in a seller’s market you may find yourself in a multiple offer situation. It is best to be prepared. The true “market value” of a home is not only determined by realistic sellers, but also by prudent buyers. If you are getting out of your comfort zone or you are not 100% sure the house is perfect for you, take a moment to reflect: It’s just a house.

The home you're agonizing over probably wasn’t known to you a week ago. New homes come to the market every day. You should not worry about the one you don’t get. One thing I’ve learned in my 19 years as a licensed Realtor with over 3,000 completed transactions, is that there will always be another house to meet your needs. Be prudent in your home search, and remember: It’s just a house.

https://www.royallepage.ca/en/realestate/info-and-advice/buyer-resources/

Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

22 March, 2018

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It’s the time of year when many homeowners are thinking of listing their properties for sale. This raises questions about how to increase your home’s value. Each home is unique and the particular updates required will be different in each situation. However, there are some general guidelines to assist homeowners.
The kitchen and bathroom remain key features to attract buyers. They can also be expensive to renovate. Some easy fixes that can be done at low cost include: cleaning the grout; removing rust stains, applying fresh caulk, repainting, updating cabinet pulls and replacing faucets.
Millennials (aged 25-30) are entering the home buying market in larger numbers. This group is looking for low-maintenance, high-tech, green homes. Be sure that the landscape is attractive, well-pruned and has low upkeep requirements such as low watering needs. Consider adding smart technology such as smart-phone enabled security and thermostat. If you need to replace any of your home’s mechanical systems, look at green options such as solar hot water heaters. Reducing energy costs may be useful to attract these young buyers.
Today’s home buyer is looking for a more open-concept living space. You might be able to achieve this by removing a wall or partial wall or even a door. A home that has a fresh coat of neutral wall colour will also appear more open. White and off-white remain popular paint colours.
Outdoor spaces that extend the living space of your home are very popular. The addition of a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen could add value to your home.
Of course, before considering any of these changes, be sure everything you currently have in your home is in good working order. A leaky faucet or clogged drainpipe might signal poor maintenance elsewhere.
We would be happy to discuss any plans for preparing your home for the market, and can give you specific advice on ways to increase your home’s value.

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/brokers-tell-all-10-ways-to-boost-house-value

https://www.consumerreports.org/home-improvement/8-ways-to-boost-your-home-value/

https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/value-home

 

Kingston's Puppy Parks

15 February, 2018

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It’s a dog’s world and we just live in it! This is true for most dog owners who know that they may pay the bills, but their canine pal ultimately rules the home. If you have a dog at home and are thinking of moving, you are likely trying to find a neighbourhood that caters to yours and your pooch’s lifestyle. Luckily, Kingston is an extremely pet-friendly town and has quite a few off-leash dog parks* for your four-legged friend to enjoy.

  1. Rotary Park – 1280 Coverdale Drive
  2. MacLean Trail Park – 918 Highway 15
  3. Meadowbrook Park – 444 Kingsdale Avenue
  4. Memorial Centre – 303 York Street
  5. Grass Creek Park – 2991 Highway 2 East

Let your dog stretch his or her legs and blow off some steam with their favorite puppy friends! As leash laws become more restrictive, these off-leash parks are a great way to let your pup have fun and socialize safely. Contact our team and we can help you find the perfect home in a neighborhood that suits your routine. *Note that these are fenced-in off-leash parks, but some may have gaps in the fencing, so the City of Kingston advises that pet owners stay with their dogs at all times.

https://www.cityofkingston.ca/residents/recreation/parks-trails/offleash

 

Home Trends 2018

05 January, 2018

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2017 saw a year full of lush succulents, all-white kitchens, and marble...everything! This year will be opening the doors to more luxurious design and décor elements which will keep you feeling cozy and sophisticated at the same time. We have compiled a list of the top home trends for 2018, which one is your favourite?

1) Rich Jewel Tones
Vibrant pigments will help you stroll into 2018 in style. Long gone is the appeal of white walls or pastel hues, rich jewel tones have once again found their place in home décor. From walls, to furniture, to flooring – jewel tones are stylish and timeless.

2) Tropical & Floral Prints
The tropical trend is still going strong from last year, but now has started to incorporate more floral patterns to increase the airy, relaxed atmosphere. Balance the bright tones with neutral elements to help your tropical and floral themes really pop!

3) Statement Ceilings & Flooring
2018 trends are moving away from statement walls to bold ceilings and flooring. Bathrooms, hallways, and laundry rooms seem to be the most popular areas for this design trick, turning small rooms into vibrant spaces without adding clutter.

4) Spa-Style Bathrooms
Enjoy a spa vacation without ever having to leave the comfort of your home by turning your bathroom into a soothing, inviting environment. Bright lighting, white tiles, a stylish lounge chair, and luxurious accent pieces will make you never want to leave the comfort of your tub.

5) Fun Wall Art
Bare spaces have lost their charm. Fun and funky wall art is not only an eye-catcher but will also serve as a great conversation starter. Try one large piece or play with a variety of shapes and sizes on one wall to create an interesting gallery affect.


http://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g4542/home-trends-for-fall/
http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g14426211/pinterest-home-decor-trends-2018/
http://theeverygirl.com/the-top-home-decor-trends-for-2018/
http://www.idealhome.co.uk/news/home-decor-trends-2018-191244

‘Tis The Season To Explore Kingston

08 December, 2017

undefinedThe snow and wind may have you running for the hills (or your warm bed) but there’s still time to enjoy the holiday season before hibernation begins. Now that summer has faded and the cold weather has crept in, it’s the perfect time to explore a different, cozier side of Kingston. You’ll never find yourself bored if you take advantage of all that the city has to offer, so we have compiled some of the best winter activities to take advantage of while you can:

Open Mic Night At The Rose & Crown – December 13, 2017 | 8:30pm
Stop by this fabulously cozy British-themed pub and enjoy live music and the opportunity to get on stage yourself at their weekly open mic nights! Enjoy some amazing drinks and delicious food while you revel in the holiday atmosphere.

The Crushed Candy Affair Murder Mystery Dinner – December 9, 2017 | 6:30pm
Murder, mayhem, and Minos – oh my! Book your ticket today for the 3-course dinner at Minos Village Restaurant which includes an interactive show with some wacky characters. Make sure to keep your eye out for anything suspicious! A perfect family outing or staff holiday party.

Kingston Holiday Market – December 9, 2017 | 11:00am
Enjoy some yummy treats and apple cider while you browse through the endless throngs of talented local vendors who will be participating in the Kingston Holiday Market. Happening every weekend until December 23, this is your one-stop-shop for everything on your Christmas shopping list!

Trivia Afternoon At The Alibi – December 10, 2017 | 3:00pm
The Alibi will be hosting a super fun trivia afternoon complete with games, prizes, great music, and delectable food & drinks! Every Sunday you can bring a team or come alone and join a team, but be prepared to battle it out for bragging rights! They also have free giveaway throughout the game, what more could you ask for?!

Improbable Escapes – Open Tues-Sun | By Appointment Only
Test your luck and your quick thinking with one of the many escape rooms options that Improbable Escapes offers. This fast-paced activity is sure to bring a smile to everyone face – and coax out that competitive spirit. There are games suitable for all ages and skill levels, our personal favorite was definitely the horror-themed “Coroners Report”!

Paint Nite Kingston – Book Online
Show off your creativity and bond with friends in these incredible workshops! So many options to choose from so you will always be able to find a theme that suits you. Bring your masterpiece home at the end of the night and cherish the memories made while you were painting it.

 

https://www.visitkingston.ca/kingston-events/
https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attractions-g154992-Activities-c56-Kingston_Ontario.html
https://www.paintnite.com/events/kingston?lat=44.231172&lon=-76.485954&term=Kingston%2C%20ON

Foolproof Child-Proofing

02 November, 2017

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If you’re expecting a new little family member, child-proofing your home can save you stress and prevent unnecessary boo-boo’s. Since a considerable amount of childhood injuries occur in the home, safety should be on the minds of all new parents. It may seem like an impossible task, but we promise that there are ways to ensure your little one if safe at home! Start by going from room to room and assess the areas that you feel will pose the biggest threat, then once those are out of the way you can focus on the less-obvious areas. Here are 10 tips we’ve gathered for foolproof child-proofing:

  • Make sure your fireplace is covered
  • Mount your TV securely on the wall
  • Protect any glass covered surfaces like coffee tables
  • Install cordless blinds so your little one can’t get wrapped up
  • Ensure any choking hazards are out of reach (candles, batteries, crayons, etc.)
  • Anchor heavy furniture to the walls or floor to avoid tipping
  • Lock all lower cabinets in your kitchen
  • Set cutlery and utensils out of reach
  • Remove waste basked liners from small garbage cans to avoid choking hazards
  • Ensure your toilet is latched closed

There are more safety strategies that you can use to keep your home safe through each stage of your youngster’s life, from crawling to running around like a wild child, so do your research. Remember that babies move quickly and since the average toddler starts to crawl around 7-9 months, you better start as soon as possible!

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