Abbotsford Real Estate Agent David Shieh "Helping people achieve their dreams."

2229 CRYSTAL Court

2009-09-16T11:06:00.004-07:00

Location, Location!! Best value for a home! Come enjoy the perks of living in front of a park. Great neighbors, a quiet street & more parks close by. This 2 br + den home has alot of character and boasts a long list of great updates: a fully renovated master bedroom & ensuite which highlights a jetted tub with marble vanity. A completely updated kitchen with custom cabinets, new appliances, ice maker, dishwasher, fridge, gas stove (all appl under warranty). A new roof ('07), new furnace ('07). New carpets, doors, closets, windows & blinds, etc. Come see for yourself. Nothing to do but move in.

MLS# F2920181

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

34925 GLENN MOUNTAIN DR

2009-07-16T13:46:00.001-07:00

Glenn Mountain/McMillan area home in highly sought after neighborhood. Updates throughout! This 4 bdrm + 3 baths, 2 storey, 4 level split home features new chocolate maple hardwood on main with custom railings. Newer kitchen countertops, carpets, paint, updated bathrooms and Lennox high efficiency furnace and more. Come home to vaulted ceilings throughout the main floor and walk into your pine kitchen and cozy up to your high efficiency wood burning stove... Just like living in a Whistler vacation. Atmosphere, Atmosphere, Atmosphere. Close to all levels of schools, parks, transportation, recreation and shopping. Just move in. Easy to show.

MLS# F2915929

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

# 310 33668 KING RD $159,900

2009-04-03T15:31:00.002-07:00

Fabulous Alumus in College Park. Spacious 1 bdrm, 1 bath home with beautiful views of Mount Baker and the surrounding mountains from its wrap around patio. Laminate flooring, gas fireplace, skylight, big kitchen with pantry. Large walk-thru closet in the master bedroom. Bright, clean and well taken care of. Easy freeway access and walking distance to UFV, Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Complex, shopping, fine dining and cineplex. Act quickly, this special unit will not last long with its easy showings! Quick possession available.

Click HERE to view MLS# F2902146

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

SOLD 2939 Clearbrook Rd $319.900

2008-06-09T13:39:00.001-07:00

Solid 3 bedroom house in the Clearbrook area. RS3 zoning & a separate entrance. Front & rear lane access. Hold on to this property. Investors special.

MLS# F2816597

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Landmark Realty Corp.

SOLD 3905 Caves Ct $$587,500

2008-06-09T13:37:00.003-07:00

Amazing 5 bedroom + den home situated in a cul-de-sac in 'sought after' Sandy Hill Estates. Open great room concept with a kitchen in the corner and a generously sized centre island for gathering guests to congregate plus a nook area. Master bedroom features 2 W/I closets & a 5pc ensuite with his and hers sinks,closet in den, RV parking & central A/C w/heat pump. An excellent neighborhood that allows you to walk to all levels of award winning schools & parks. Fully fenced backyard for your kids to play plus a storage shed for all of your tools. Two gorgeous gas f/p's 1 up & 1 down. Basement features a full bathroom off of the recroom. The nicely sized patio features amazing mountains & valley views plus a gas hookup for your BBQ

MLS# F2816597

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Landmark Realty Corp.

SOLD 35325 MCKINLEY DR

2008-05-20T20:05:00.001-07:00

Excellent and bright Sandy Hill home. Large legal basement suite with 2 rooms. Many upgrades including money saving heat pump/AC, beautiful hardwood flooring, hardwood kick panels leading upstairs, fully landscaped and fenced backyard. Enjoy romantic evenings beside your stone fireplace. Entertain guests in your well appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Sip glasses of fine wine on your large deck. Have a seat and take in the view from your front porch. Retreat into your private master suite and enjoy rest and relaxation. A fine place to call home. Call for a viewing now.

Click HERE for more pictures.

MLS# F2813660

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Landmark Realty Corp.

SOLD 35331 MCKINLEY DR

2008-05-20T20:01:00.001-07:00

Immaculate 4 bedroom home in Sandy Hill. Enjoy entertaining with the large kitchen and spacious great room which leads to a nicely sized patio. Relax in your large rooms. The drywall in the basement is already installed. Nicely appointed with 9' ceilings, over sized stairs, beautiful Maple kitchen, river rock stone fireplace, convenient laundry on main and an added bonus of a dining room on the main floor! Minutes to all levels of award winning schools.

Click HERE for more pictures.

MLS# F2813591

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Landmark Realty Corp.

# 40 5700 JINKERSON RD

2008-05-20T20:00:00.001-07:00

Completely remodeled, wide open floor plan in a 19+ gated community. This near new rancher offers an unobstructed view of the North Shore Mountains (watch for deer) out your back door and Mt Thom out your front door. Do not pass on this one with its vaulted ceilings, 2 gas fireplaces, master bedroom on the main and a nice big rec room and other bedroom and bathroom down in your walk out day light basement, great for visiting guests. There is also a huge crawl space for storage.

Click HERE for more pictures.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Landmark Realty Corp.

2656 LARKSPUR CT Abbotsford Real Estate Agent David Shieh

2008-02-14T13:17:00.000-08:00

Abbotsford 's Prestigious Eagle Mountain! Your new home search stops here! Prestigious Eagle Mountain home built by Ellwood homes. Some of the luxurys that will accompany this 2 storey plus basement home of just over 4100 sq.ft. Finished includes 6 bedroom, 4 bathrooms, vaulted ceilings, 9 and 18 foot ceilings, theatre room, extensive use of moulding work, 2 gas fireplace, granite counters through out, hardwood floors, open floor plan and floor to ceiling rock fireplace. This is going to be a beautiful home with high end finishing.

Click HERE for all of the newest Eagle Mountain listings

Please contact me immediately for your private showing

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Royal Lepage

Abbotsford's Eagle Mountain - 2594 EAGLE MOUNTAIN DR

2008-02-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

Abbotsford 's Prestigious Eagle Mountain! Two story with finished basement with amazing view of Mt. Baker. 4 bedrooms upstairs with 3 of the bedrooms with their own ensuites! Separate loft area for a library or computer area. Increase your investment portfolio with this amazing house!

Click HERE for all of the newest Eagle Mountain listings

Please contact me immediately for your private showing

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Landmark Realty Corp.

Eagle Mountain - 2623 Eagle Mnt Dr.

2008-01-29T20:09:00.000-08:00

Abbotsford 's Prestigious Eagle Mountain luxury 5 bedroom, family home with breathtaking views and stunning features: open floor plan, butlers kitchen, 10-18' ceilings, raked window features, coffered ceilings, windows galore, master deck, ensuite, wardrobe, 3 baths up. Maple cabinets with Blumotion Tech, granite counters, apron sink, all rooms looking out to Baker and Valley, a GREAT room with 18' ceilings, gas fireplace and built-in shelving. Formal dining room features hutch area and large den/living room. Rope lighting. Every room has special features. Master with fireplace and covered deck. High effeciency heat pump/ac. Hardwood floors engineered cork/slate. Stamped concrete driveway and sundeck. 80 gallon hot water tank.

Click HERE for all of the newest Eagle Mountain listings

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Courtesy of Lighthouse Realty Ltd.

The Condo Buzz

2007-11-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

The young are doing it. The old are doing it. Everyone's doing it! From Vancouver's beautiful coastline to Montreal's chic concrete-covered streets, condos are all the craze. While a portion of the population still view condominium units as small boxes stacked one above another, all types of people are moving into and buying condominiums. The fastest growing area of home development in Vancouver and Whistler is in condominium development. Across the country, thousands of miles away, Toronto currently absorbs close to 1000 new condo units per month. With statistics like these, the condo craze has definitely made itself at home in Canada.

Why are so many people opting to purchase condos instead of houses? Toronto condo owner Vanessa Rementilla has the answer. "For both young and old, condos offer the convenience of having everything in reach," Rementilla says. "As well, condos boast the ease of not having to maintain what you would if living in a house...worrying about cleaning the roof, shoveling the driveway, taking the garbage out."Rementilla is right, condominiums offer residents a lot of comfort for little maintenance. If purchasing a home, most would never be able to afford all the amenities that condos offer. Some of these amenities include pools, gym facilities, 24 hour security, and underground parking. "It's great, I don't have to remember which day the recycling has to go out, because the building does it for me," she exclaims.

Of course, buyers must remember that condos do have monthly maintenance fees for the services and general upkeep. For those who don't have the time or interest in doing certain chores themselves, the fee is worth it.

Young urban professionals tend to buy condos for other reasons too. Low interest rates encourage them to buy, as do first-time home buyer incentives. Being within an urban center is very important to younger home buyers — they want to be close to the city's bars, theaters, public transportation system, shopping areas, etc.

Older buyers also care about being close to all the conveniences that a city has to offer."People that are down-sizing, the empty-nesters, tend to have more time and money on their hands to enjoy the city they live in," Rementilla says. Very true. With their kids grown up and gone, older couples can take advantage of condo location to experience the city. In my loft building, almost half of the residents are retired. They love living in the hustle and bustle of the city, where they can walk to a museum, sit in a nearby park and go shopping.

Whether young or old, working or retired, single or married, condos are extremely popular in Canada — there are no signs of this trend fading. The condo craze is here to stay!
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Mortgage?

2007-10-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

A mortgage represents a loan or lien on a property/house that has to be paid over a specified period of time. Think of it as your personal guarantee that you'll repay the money you've borrowed to buy your home. Mortgages come in many different shapes and sizes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you select the mortgage that is right for you, your future plans, and your financial picture.
What is an amortization schedule?

The month-by-month allocation of your monthly payment to the loan's interest and principal is called an amortization schedule. With most loans you pay off the interest on the loan before you pay off the principal (or the actual amount you borrowed). Your lender will provide an amortization schedule to show you how the percentage of your principal paid off increases with every payment, while the percentage of interest decreases.

Choosing the right mortgage.

Once you decide on the mortgage you want, do your homework. Different lenders offer different rates, points, and fees. Ask around and compare.

Understanding the benefits of different mortgage offerings can be a complex process.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Negotiating A Sales Price

2007-10-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

Before you negotiate a sales price, it's important to determine if you or the seller has the stronger position. Knowing this will help you plan your negotiation.

The seller may have the stronger position if:

* The local real estate market is strong and homes are selling quickly.
* They aren't in a rush to move.
* Similar houses have sold for close to or above their asking price.

The buyer may have the stronger position if:

* The local real estate market is weak.
* The seller needs to move quickly.
* The house has been on the market for a long time.

When negotiating, more information is better. Look at your notes from when you looked at the house. If there's anything in need of repair or replacement, you may include these costs in the negotiation. If you want certain appliances or fixtures to stay, be sure to include them in the negotiation. You may also want to make your offer contingent upon your obtaining financing or the house passing a professional home inspection, especially if it is an older home.

There are several steps to negotiating:

* Asking price.
This is the price the sellers have originally listed. Except in extremely strong real estate markets, most sellers don't expect to get an offer at or above the asking price.
* Initial purchase offer.
This is your first offer. It may include contingencies (such as a requirement that the home pass a professional inspection or that you receive adequate financing from your lender.)
* Acceptance of offer or counter-offer.
The seller can accept your offer or make a counter-offer of a new price or additional contingencies.

If you've made a home inspection part of the contingencies and something serious is found during the inspection, you may want to submit a new counter-offer and discuss the situation with your lender. The process may go back and forth several times before you and the seller reach an offer that is acceptable to you both. Remember that in some instances, your lender may not approve your mortgage if the home has serious deficiencies that could affect its value.

* Escalation clauses.
If you live in a market where homes are selling quickly and have multiple offers, your contract may need to be offered with something called an escalator clause, which allows the offer to increase by certain dollar increments if more than the offer is obtained and entertained by the seller.
Source: Freddie Mac
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Things to Consider Before Buying a Home

2007-10-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

You are about to invest in your most valuable asset. Many home buying steps are standard yet there might be slight variations depending on the real estate laws and regulations where you live. Here are our top ten recommendations to make you more confident as you embark on your home buying journey.

1. YOUR CREDIT RATING
Getting your finances in order is probably the most important step you should take. Your credit reports are an ongoing look at how you manage your finances. You must know exactly what your credit reports say about your financial history before you apply for a mortgage, because the reports play an important role in the mortgage approval process and in determining the interest rate and other loan terms that a lender offers you.

2. UNDERSTANDING HOW MORTGAGE WORKS
Get familiar with the mortgage laws, structure and options. That way, you will be able to decide on the right loan and lender - crucial to your home buying success. It's up to you to determine which lender is best for your needs, and it's always a good idea to have at least a bit of background about the loan process before you talk to a lender.

3. GETTING A MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL
Do you know how much house you can afford? Probably not, unless you've talked with a lender. Pre-approval helps you in other ways. Consider this scenario. A home seller gets two similar offers. One is accompanied by a letter from the buyer's bank that states she is pre-approved for a mortgage in the amount of the offer. The other has no supporting documents. Which offer do you think the seller will consider first?

4. SORTING OUR YOUR NEEDS AND YOUR WANTS
Buying a home isn't as difficult as you might think, even if you're short on funds. But the process will go a lot smoother if you get familiar with your real estate market and narrow down your wants and needs before you start looking at houses.

5. PREPARING TO WORK WITH REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Real estate agents represent buyers, sellers, or both for they can work as neutral facilitators for either party. It's essential to understand agent duties and loyalties before you make that first phone call.

6. THE GREAT HOME SEARCH
The Internet is a great tool - you can spend endless hours searching public version of Multiple Listing Service websites. Besides, your agent too will give you multiple listing sheets to study. You can also pick up House For Sale magazines and read classified ads in your local newspapers. You might even plan afternoon drives to preview neighbourhoods. These are all excellent ways to see what's available out there.

7. PRE-OFFER INVESTIGATION
Deciding whether or not you want to buy a house involves a look at its structure and its features, but there are many other topics that are every bit as important to your purchase. Appoint a professional to conduct the home inspection. Study what kind of house is it - site built, modular or manufactured. Consider its market value and resale potential. Do others have a right to use the property? Can you live with the deed restrictions? Is the reported square footage accurate? Is the heating system efficient? And so on.

8. MAKING THE OFFER
There's no one set of instructions that can cover all the differences in real estate laws and customs that exist throughout, so the mechanics of making an offer and its specific contingencies depend greatly on your location. That's why you should sit with your agent, attorney or advisor to fine-tune your offer and take care of all the contractual considerations.

9. AVOIDING LAST MINUTE CHANGES
As your closing date nears, everyone involved in your real estate transaction should check its progress on a daily basis, because staying on top of things means you'll know immediately if there's a problem that must be dealt with. Here's a bit of information that focuses on a few common problems that home buyers must deal with before they close on a house.

10. BEFORE CLOSING
Most of your home buying concerns are behind you now and you're on your way to closing the event that transfers ownership of the property to you. You will encounter issues specific to your location and your transaction, issues that can best be explained and handled by your local real estate agent, your lender, your attorney, your closing agent, or others who are helping you complete the home buying transaction.

Never hesitate to ask questions. Ask as many questions as necessary to help you understand the entire home buying process. You are making a long term commitment and spending a major amount of money--you'll feel much better about the transaction if you stay informed and understand what's happening every step along the way.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.
You are about to invest in your most valuable asset. Many home buying steps are standard yet there might be slight variations depending on the real estate laws and regulations where you live. Here are our top ten recommendations to make you more confident as you embark on your home buying journey.

1. YOUR CREDIT RATING
Getting your finances in order is probably the most important step you should take. Your credit reports are an ongoing look at how you manage your finances. You must know exactly what your credit reports say about your financial history before you apply for a mortgage, because the reports play an important role in the mortgage approval process and in determining the interest rate and other loan terms that a lender offers you.

2. UNDERSTANDING HOW MORTGAGE WORKS
Get familiar with the mortgage laws, structure and options. That way, you will be able to decide on the right loan and lender - crucial to your home buying success. It's up to you to determine which lender is best for your needs, and it's always a good idea to have at least a bit of background about the loan process before you talk to a lender.

3. GETTING A MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL
Do you know how much house you can afford? Probably not, unless you've talked with a lender. Pre-approval helps you in other ways. Consider this scenario. A home seller gets two similar offers. One is accompanied by a letter from the buyer's bank that states she is pre-approved for a mortgage in the amount of the offer. The other has no supporting documents. Which offer do you think the seller will consider first?

4. SORTING OUR YOUR NEEDS AND YOUR WANTS
Buying a home isn't as difficult as you might think, even if you're short on funds. But the process will go a lot smoother if you get familiar with your real estate market and narrow down your wants and needs before you start looking at houses.

5. PREPARING TO WORK WITH REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Real estate agents represent buyers, sellers, or both for they can work as neutral facilitators for either party. It's essential to understand agent duties and loyalties before you make that first phone call.

6. THE GREAT HOME SEARCH
The Internet is a great tool - you can spend endless hours searching public version of Multiple Listing Service websites. Besides, your agent too will give you multiple listing sheets to study. You can also pick up House For Sale magazines and read classified ads in your local newspapers. You might even plan afternoon drives to preview neighbourhoods. These are all excellent ways to see what's available out there.

7. PRE-OFFER INVESTIGATION
Deciding whether or not you want to buy a house involves a look at its structure and its features, but there are many other topics that are every bit as important to your purchase. Appoint a professional to conduct the home inspection. Study what kind of house is it - site built, modular or manufactured. Consider its market value and resale potential. Do others have a right to use the property? Can you live with the deed restrictions? Is the reported square footage accurate? Is the heating system efficient? And so on.

8. MAKING THE OFFER
There's no one set of instructions that can cover all the differences in real estate laws and customs that exist throughout, so the mechanics of making an offer and its specific contingencies depend greatly on your location. That's why you should sit with your agent, attorney or advisor to fine-tune your offer and take care of all the contractual considerations.

9. AVOIDING LAST MINUTE CHANGES
As your closing date nears, everyone involved in your real estate transaction should check its progress on a daily basis, because staying on top of things means you'll know immediately if there's a problem that must be dealt with. Here's a bit of information that focuses on a few common problems that home buyers must deal with before they close on a house.

10. BEFORE CLOSING
Most of your home buying concerns are behind you now and you're on your way to closing the event that transfers ownership of the property to you. You will encounter issues specific to your location and your transaction, issues that can best be explained and handled by your local real estate agent, your lender, your attorney, your closing agent, or others who are helping you complete the home buying transaction.

Never hesitate to ask questions. Ask as many questions as necessary to help you understand the entire home buying process. You are making a long term commitment and spending a major amount of money--you'll feel much better about the transaction if you stay informed and understand what's happening every step along the way.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Mortgage Information

2007-10-22T18:38:00.001-07:00

A few changes to report on the rate front…current rate sheet attached. Best 5 year fixed term is now sitting at 5.99% and our best 5 year Variable Rate mortgage is sitting at Prime minus .60%, which today is 5.65%. Bond yields in the market have been on a steady decline for over a week now which should mean some interest rate decreases in the near future

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

How much home can you truly afford?

2007-10-16T22:36:00.001-07:00

A general rule of thumb is to multiply your gross annual income by 2.2 to arrive at the home’s approximate price level. For instance, if a married couple gross a total of $80,000 annually, they can probably afford a home priced at $176,000 (rew.ca).
The second affordability rule is that your entire monthly debt load shouldn’t be more than 40 per cent of your gross monthly income. This includes housing costs and other debts such as car loans and credit card payments. Lenders add up these debts to determine what percentage they are of your gross monthly income. This figure is your Total Debt Service (TDS) ratio(rew.ca).
It helps to keep in mind that, in the long run, home owning has been traditionally a much better investment than renting. And when you finally sell, the capital gain on your Canadian private residence is tax free(rew.ca).
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Upgrade your kitchen without remodelling

2007-10-07T12:05:00.001-07:00

If you are planning to sell your home, you can present your kitchen as an organized, clutter-free, versatile space that will make it easy for buyers to envision being productive and happy working in the heart of their new home.

Want to give your kitchen some pizzazz without blowing a fortune? Here are some easy, low-cost changes that can instantly upgrade your kitchen, without major remodeling.

1. Replace your kitchen faucet with an updated model.

2. Change the face of your cabinet. If you have solid wood cabinets, strip the colour or finish. Then apply a new stain with a couple of drops (or squeezes!) of yellow or green oil pigment (available at your local craft store) added. The colour will have more depth and more drama.

3. Replace or paint ugly laminate countertops. (Use Marine-grade paint.)

4. Add warmth during cold seasons with a gorgeous rug next to the sink counter.

5. Try adding beadboard as a backsplash for a traditional or country kitchen. Be sure to cover with a quality paint that can be scrubbed!

6. Want a Tuscan look? Mount terracotta or stone pavers as a backsplash. Apply matching or contrasting mortar to customize the look.

7. For an even more inexpensive look, use vinyl floor tiles in a stone or mosaic pattern as a backsplash. There are some wonderful vinyl tiles available today.

8. For a plantation look, replace your conventional doors with window shutters.

9. Add colour to plain white cabinets with art! Ask your children to paint flowers or scenes on white paper. Then mount the paintings in small painted frames and attach two or three (depending on the proportions of your cabinets) to the front of each door. (And you can change the paintings anytime you want!)

10. Invest in an attractive portable kitchen island to use as a prop for a kitchen with an open center and insufficient counter space.

Voila! A dramatic makeover in your kitchen takes just a few inexpensive touches!

Of course, if you have the budget, you can go all-out for improved efficiency, better storage, premium presentation and a great fresh look.

Two no-fail suggestions:

1. Replace outdated appliances with newer models to save both space and energy.

2. Refresh the kitchen with a neutral, two-toned colour scheme to make the space seem larger

Money spent updating your kitchen rewards you better than money spent on any other upgrades to your home. When it comes to kitchens, buyers continue to demand improvement in efficiency and style, and they love remodeled kitchens and new appliances.

Provided by HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Location ,Location, Location

2007-10-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Where's the best place to live? It depends on what's important to you. Location is of paramount concern for most people when choosing a new home. That's why it's crucial to have accurate facts and specifics about new communities so you can make an informed decision. Fortunately, there are several valuable sources you can use to gather information about the places you're considering. The internet is an excellent starting place to research possible new homes.

Where you choose to live is a highly subjective decision, based on many individual variables. So, what important factors should you take into consideration before you decide to pack all your worldly belongings and head for your new home? Here are some important elements to consider as you begin your search.

Schooling
Having vital information about local schools in your new community is a primary concern among parents. Again, the Internet has a wealth of resources to find out detailed information about the various schools in the areas you are considering.

Crime-rate
Feeling safe and secure in your new home is a primary consideration when choosing where to live.

Health care access
Quick access to quality health care and corresponding coverage areas are top-of-mind concerns when deciding on a home. You'll want to know beforehand how close your new home is to the nearest hospital or urgent care facility, especially if a member of your family has an existing chronic medical condition. Web sites for your specific health insurance carrier provide a comprehensive, up-to-date source for this information.

Cost of living factors
You've been offered a 30 percent raise in your new job in a city 500 miles away. That's great news--or is it? Before you decide to upgrade your kitchen to get a better selling price and break out the packing boxes, it's a good idea to see just how far your increased salary will go in that new location. Fortunately, the internet is an excellent resource to instantly compare cost of living between cities.

Homeownership rates
High homeownership rates point to a population that has a vested interest in maintaining the living standards of an area.

College-educated residents
The number of college-educated residents is indicative that the residents value the importance of higher education. This translates into educated parents who are inclined to be active participants in promoting good local schooling.

The weather
Weather patterns are an important consideration, since they can profoundly affect your physical and mental health. Look up climate averages at popular weather websites.

Forewarned is forearmed
Deciding where to live requires in-depth, up-to-date information which can help you analyze a variety of quality of life issues. While different sources may produce different results, it's a good idea to check them all out and get a comprehensive overview of what's considered to be a 'Best place to live'. Make sure you use all of the resources you have at your disposal. Knowledge is power.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

The Difference Between A “Real Estate Agent,” And A Dedicated Professional…

2007-08-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

People say I’m very different from the “flock” of real estate agents out there. Instead of hounding strangers for business and pestering people with cold calls, I spend my time building relationships,making friends, and providing the absolute highest quality service available anywhere. That’s why most of my business comes from referrals and recommendations from elated clients and good friends like you. If you or anyone you know is thinking of buying or selling real estate, or who simply has questions about their home,and wants a dedicated, competent professional and friend, please
call me at 604-825-7007.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Interesting Numbers

2007-07-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent numbers you may find “interesting”.

The price of feeding your family has risen 2.3%.

The cost of operating a motor vehicle has risen 2.8%

Housing prices continue to climb to keep pace with rising Mortgage Rates

Mortgage interest costs rose 5.7%

Homeowner replacement costs rose 6.1%

The two provinces really feeling inflationary pressure are Alberta up 6.3% and Saskatchewan at 3.2 percent, both mainly due to rising costs in housing.

On a happier note, the cost of clothing and computers eased with computer pricing falling 17.3 percent with clothing for men lowering by 2.7% and women’s apparel by 2.1%.

Happy house hunting!

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Joel's Adventures

2007-06-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

I know I have been blessed as a Realtor. I know that having clients is hard nowadays but I seem to have favor with many clients who buy & sell from me. There is nothing special about the way I sell. I just work hard & have fun. I would ask myself why? I guess the answer is simple. BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING. My wife & I have always had a heart for missionaries & what they do. Simply, they would lay down their lives to help others in need. There is no fame or glory in what they do but they still do it.

Joel Reimer is one of the missionaries we bless. He is a friend from Abbotsford, graduated from MEI & has been in Asia for almost 8 years. He is currently in Cambodia, which is considered the "armpit" of Asia. What would possess a young man like him to go all the way across the world to help out a people who does not even speak his own language? Maybe he has a vision bigger than himself & what he can get for himself.

Here is a link to his blogsite: http://joelreimer.blogspot.com/

Catch his vision & help him out

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Mortgage rates to edge up in 2007 and 2008

2007-06-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

Mortgage rates are once again on the rise after dipping in the second half of 2006 and the first quarter of this year. According to BCREA’s June 2007 Mortgage Update, BCREA expects mortgage rates to edge up to 7.3 per cent in 2007 and to 7.5 per cent in 2008.

“While the resulting increase in mortgage carrying costs will constrain some potential buyers in the long run, sales may rise in the short run as new buyers take advantage of their pre-approved rates and avoid further rate hikes,” said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist.

Source: BCREA

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

The Role of a Realtor

2007-06-21T17:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a partial transcript from a live radio interview Jim McCaughan, of Landmark Realty, performed on May 18 on Evolution 107.9 FM. The interview aired on the program Making Contact with host Kim Robertson. The focus of the interview: getting into the housing market.

Q: What’s the role of the real estate agent?

A: There are three things that a REALTOR® mainly provides and they are: advice, expertise in the market and probably most importantly, our negotiation skills. A REALTOR® is actually your business partner. Realizing that you’re making one of the largest financial transactions that most people will ever make, it’s our job to guide you through this.

Q: There are two types of real estate agents. We’ve got the buyer’s agent and then the seller’s agent. Give us an idea of what the role of each agent is.

A: A REALTOR®’s job is to promote and protect the interests of their client, whether it be the buyer or the seller. In fact, the relationship that we operate under is called agency and through that we are required to protect and promote the best interests of the client. If we represent the seller, we want to obtain the highest possible offer, with the current market conditions. And when we work for buyers, we’re attempting to get the buyer the best property that meets their needs.

Q: What are some of the advantages to actually using a real estate agent as opposed to if I’m selling my property, going it alone and doing a for-sale-by-owner?

A: The advantages of a REALTOR® are that if you’re the seller, trying to sell your home is not easy for a lot of people. The majority of people want to have the professional guidance and expertise of a REALTOR®. We help people set the right price, which is very important because if you over-price a property you probably won’t sell it, and if you under-price a property you probably will lose money.
Also, exposure to the world is very important. We have one of the most valuable marketing tools out there called mls.ca. It’s one of the most used websites of its kind in the world.

Q: If somebody is going to choose to try and tackle selling their home on their own, what are some of the things they should be cautious about?

A: Most people are not in a position to negotiate face to face like they can when they have someone who’s their advocate. The nice part about a real estate agent is that they can be the go-between, whereas when you’re dealing directly with somebody, whether it’s the buyer or the seller, it’s a bit hard to open their closets while they’re standing there showing you the property. It’s a little bit easier when you have a professional REALTOR® guiding you.

Q: Who would be writing the offer in this case, if you’re selling your home privately, do you go to a lawyer to write the offer… Or…?

A: I haven’t had any experience in that as a private seller. I would assume people try to write their own offers, but it’s critical to be able to write an offer that’s legal and binding. There needs to be some protections in there, most especially for the buyer, to allow them to do their due diligence and these are all the things that REALTORS® are trained to do. We’re highly skilled at being able to write a contract that is binding for both parties and gives both protections.

Q: What seems to be the buyer’s expectations of an agent?

A: We are expected to be able to understand the needs and the wants of a buyer. We look at: What does a buyer want? What can they afford to buy? And, what’s available? Also, we negotiate on behalf of our client the best price and the best terms available, but some of the most valuable work that REALTORS® do and I think this will be surprising to many buyers, is after the contract is negotiated and signed.

Things like helping to arrange for financing, for home inspections and if it’s a strata, which of course in the Lower Mainland there’s a lot of, we need to do a lot of due diligence with the leaky condo crisis we had a few years ago still having implications. We get 24 months of the minutes, the financials, the bylaws, the rules and regulations and one of our jobs is to help our buyers understand those. So, those are all some of the things that REALTORS® have value in providing to the public.

Source: Jim McCaughan-Landmark Realty Corp.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

New Self-Insured Mortgage?

2007-06-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

Some great news for strong borrowers…one of our lenders has just introduced a self-insured mortgage which can help your clients buy the home of their dreams—for less. With a Self-Insured Mortgage, a home buyer with a 5% down payment and a $250,000 mortgage can save $1,000 or more off the traditional one-time mortgage insurance payment required for high ratio mortgages. Rather than the traditional 2.75% premium ($6,875 on $250,000) that the borrower would be paying through CMHC/Genworth/AIG, the borrower will only be paying a 2.35% premium ($5,875 on $250,000) under this product. As stated this product is available to strong borrowers. i.e. excellent credit history.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Osoyoos 2007

2007-06-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

Osoyoos 2007

Osoyoos 2007! Need I say more? Fun, family and fellowship. Enjoy the pictures! Click HERE to link to a slideshow.

ps Full size printable files can be found at Landmark.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Rates are going up :(

2007-05-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

Rates are up across the board.

The Bank of Canada meets tomorrow morning to discuss key interest rate policy and it should be a very interesting discussion to say the least. One thing is for certain, Prime Rate will not decrease tomorrow.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

First-Time Home Buying from A to Z Podcast

2007-05-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

Check this out. A great way to learn about how to buy real estate for the first timer.

Welcome to the First-Time Home Buying from A to Z podcast, an advice-oriented series for Canadians looking to become home owners for the first time.

We’ve developed this podcast series in cooperation with Sandra Rinomato, real estate expert and host of a popular reality TV show for first time home buyers. Over the course of this series, we'll be providing advice, answering some questions and de-bunking the myths around buying a home, drawing on experts from a number of fields, including some BMO Bank of Montreal experts to get you on the right path toward buying your first home.

Click HERE

Source: BMO.com

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Knowing Your Local Home Market

2007-05-05T11:37:00.001-07:00

Knowing the Real Estate market for both home buyers and home sellers is crucial. Knowing what is taking place within a market at the time you are buying or selling a home can have a huge impact on whether you pay too much for your home or sell for less than what you may have been able to get. The Real Estate market in any community is similar to the stock market or any other commodity-based market. It is cyclical and as a buyer or a seller you certainly want to know what part of the cycle you are in. This will not only help you make a decision on buying or selling, it will
also help you understand what price to offer, or at what price list your home. The best way to receive this information is from a Real Estate Professional that truly understands the market. Do not rely upon rumor or what you read in the newspaper or magazines. This information may not be accurate or could possibly not even be relevant to the particular market you are in. For example, home sales in Vancouver, BC could be outstanding; a true sellers market, and at the same time be very slow in Calgary, Alberta; a buyers market. Each market is uniquely cyclical and you need to have the correct information in order to make a wise decision.

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Landmark’s realtor awards & target night !!!

2007-03-30T18:32:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed a delicious STEAK AND KING CRAB DINNER tonite at Landmark! (DARTS & PAINTBALL) THE TEAM WITH THE HIGHEST SCORE WINS A TEAM LUNCH !!! RED team won the contest! Congrats! Thank you to all who contributed to the fun evening.

Congratulations to all who won an award. Keep up the good work.

Enjoy the pictures. Please click HERE for the slide show. Remember to click the back button to go back to this webpage.

Check out Bob Johnston shooting a paintball gun. Click HERE to view the video clip.

Bob Johnston ripping it up

Note: Please email me if you you want me to email you large printable files

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

2007-03-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Check out CREA's new advertising campaign at howrealtorshelp.ca.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Not Following through to THE END

2007-03-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

The deal has gone through and you are about
to take possession. You must still be vigilant,
for there are mistakes to be made even now:

* Possession Date - Make sure you and the
seller both know when you are to have vacant
possession - that is, when they and their stuff
is to be gone. If you think it's 12:01 a.m. and
the seller thinks it's noon, there can be
big problems.

* Insurance - Make sure you have arranged for
adequate home insurance and that it's timed to
come into effect so there is no gap between the
seller's insurance and yours.

* Final Check - Do a thorough walk-through before
you close and before you take possession to ensure
that all conditions are met. Are the light fixtures all
in place? Are all the appliances you agreed to buy
still there?

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

The Emotional Buyer - Keep your emotions under control.

2007-03-18T23:14:00.001-07:00

Here are five emotional mistakes first-time
home buyers often make:

*************
1. Love Hurts

*************

Falling in love with a home. As discussed at the
top of this article, the buyer has to reconcile
dreams with realities. It's often difficult to look
at the pros and cons of a home rationally if you
let yourself become too emotional about a
particular property. Beware of real estate agents
trying to play on your emotions to encourage
you to say yes. Never buy the first home you
see without looking at some others.

*************
2. Keep Control

*************

Losing control of the situation is frustrating and
can lead to imprudent decisions. Don't let
yourself be swayed or sidetracked by an assertive
agent or by undue advice from family or friends
(they don't have to live there, you do!). Personality
clashes with agents, mortgage brokers or others
with whom you are trying to work with can also be upsetting.

*************
3. Decisions, Decisions

*************

Not being able to make a decision. If you can't
decide about anything from budgets to what kind
of house you want then maybe you aren't ready
to commit to home ownership. If you're simply
worried that something better will come along after
you've made your offer, remember that there's
more than one home out there with your name on
it. Take the time you need to make a sound decision,
but don't be afraid to commit to a new home purchase.

*************
4. What are you getting into?

*************

Not realizing the responsibilities of home ownership.
It's great to own your own home, but it takes time
and commitment to maintain this large investment.
Make sure you are prepared.

*************
5. Is it the right time?

*************

Buying before you are ready. If you are suffering
cold feet over becoming a homeowner, sit down and
take stock of the situation. Examine your motives for
thinking you should take this giant step, looking at
what it will mean to your lifestyle and budget. Talk it
over with your financial counselor, your real estate
agent and your mortgage professional. Remember that
there are two million first-time buyers a year and most
of them felt the same trepidation as you. Most of them
are happily taking on their exciting new challenge.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Messing Up The Offer

2007-03-18T23:08:00.000-07:00

It's not over once you've found the house you
want. Now you have to make an offer. Some
common mistakes at this stage include:

* Low-balling - New buyers often offer too little
or want too many concessions from the seller.
That can alienate the seller, with the result that
he simply rejects the offer without even a counter.

* Paying too much - Avoid bidding wars at all costs.
Sometimes the threat of another buyer is simply a
ploy to scare you into upping your offer. Even if there
is another buyer, don't play the game. Whoever
eventually "wins" will be the loser because the price
will be too high. In case there isn't another buyer, let
the seller know you'll be interested if the deal falls through.

* Being afraid to negotiate - Most of us hate to
haggle, but negotiation is the key to the best deal.
Know your bottom line and be prepared to walk away
if you can't meet it. Knowing as much as possible
about the seller's situation, including his time frame,
is an enormous help (a Buyer's Agent can be very
helpful here). Likewise, try to keep information about
your own financial situation to yourself; the seller will
be looking for information about you that they can use
to their advantage during negotiations.

* Being pressured into a quick deal - Don't let the
seller's side pressure you to a quick close. It could
be a sign that something's not right. If the property
has been on the market for a long time, there's
probably no rush. Remember, there's always another
place that's right for you.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Location - Location - Location!

2007-03-18T23:05:00.000-07:00

Did I mention location? Location is the key.

The value of your home is affected by those
around you. The home may be perfect, but look
carefully at the neighborhood too. No home is
an island (usually) and the value is affected by
the homes that surround it.

Factors determining the best location include:

* Surrounding homes - the condition of other
homes, including buildings and grounds

* Size Matters - the relative size of your potential
home compared to the others. A small home
surrounded by large ones may have taxes
disproportionately high because of the neighborhood.

* Placement - the outer edge of an area is less
desirable than being in the middle, surrounded
by similar homes, except if the property borders
woods, a park or other open space such as a golf
course.

* Best Buy - the least expensive home in the best
area or in an area in transition is a best buy. You
can buy low now to sell high later.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

5 More Mortgage Tips

2007-03-10T13:33:00.000-08:00

1. What goes up, must come down
Interest rates tend to move in cycles. After a prolonged increase, a slow drop usually occurs. Savvy shoppers should keep track of longer-term trends and wait to buy until rates decline.

3. Natural disaster
Early preparation reduces financial loss from tropical storm, tornadoes, floods, wildfires and other natural disasters. Insurance, home improvement loans to fortify against major damage, and safeguarded paperwork help sustain homeowners and business through disasters.

3. 40-year mortgages
The 40-year mortgage reduces monthly payments if you need more help purchasing a home. But it also has major drawbacks -- a radically higher interest bill over the life of the loan and a much longer time to build up equity. Also, these longer amortizations don’t come free. For example, on a purchase with 5% down payment, you can expect to pay an insurance premium of 3.35% on the mortgage amount to set your mortgage up with a 40 year amortization.

4. When you assume, you can save
Assuming an existing loan can slash your monthly loan payments and save thousands of dollars in interest if the interest rate on the assumable loan is lower than current rates.

5. Be honest
Tell your broker about any strange purchase conditions you meet or about any unusual circumstances in your situation when you apply for your loan. Sometimes what you put on the application doesn't tell the whole story. You may get pre-qualified based solely on a cursory credit check and review of your application data. This could prove to be insufficient for a final approval.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Top 5 Mortgage Tips

2007-03-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

1. Steer clear of high-cost, high-fee loans
Avoid loans that roll a balloon payment, prepayment penalty, mortgage life insurance or other provisions into one loan. These loans often make the combined financial burden too much to bear for average borrowers.

2. Adjustable-rate mortgages
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are favourable when rates are going down or your salary is going up. Otherwise, each rate adjustment can sting. ARM holders can reduce the impact of worst-case rate hikes by saving money during the initial low-payment period, buying down loan balances and budgeting.

3. Clean up your credit before shopping for a home
Cleaning up your credit report before you're in the mortgage process can result in better loan rates and terms. General guidelines for strengthening your report include: paying bills on time, limiting outstanding credit, closing out unused credit cards, resolving outstanding bills and correcting inaccurate information.

4. Watch out for inflated appraisals
When you're buying a home, a property appraisal should determine the mortgage's current market value. This is done by comparing the home against other similar homes that have sold recently. Make sure and do your homework to ensure the house you’re buying is worth the price you’re paying; otherwise you could end up with a home that’s worth less than you owe.

5. Don't apply for too many loans
Each time you apply, lenders request a copy of your credit report. Frequent inquiries can be a sign of “credit seeking behaviour” and can adversely affect your credit rating. Here at Greenwood, we pull your credit only once and use that one credit bureau with multiple lenders.
Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Ryan & Sophia's big move

2007-03-03T21:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight my wife & I had the honor of helping one of our customers move into their first condo! Here are some pictures.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Sloppy Buyers - Have the house professionally inspected!

2007-03-02T15:37:00.000-08:00

In your agreement with the sellers, one of the
conditions should be a favorable report from a
house inspector. To find a good inspector, ask
for recommendations, then make sure the
inspector is certified (the home-inspection industry
is not licensed or regulated). Ask how many
inspections they have performed and what kind of
report is provided to you (you might confirm how
long it will take to get the report). Also ask if you
can be present during the inspection. If they say
no, find someone else.

The inspector's job is to check the property and tell
you what defects need to be repaired or replaced.
Based on this report, you might want to walk away
from the property or negotiate with the seller for
repairs or an allowance for repairs. In most
jurisdictions, sellers are required to make complete
disclosure of defects in writing. Make sure you have
this disclosure and so does your inspector.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Have your own lawyer!

2007-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

Your REALTOR's job is to find you a home, not give you legal advice. Keep in mind that your agent is usually paid only after you purchase a home and their fee often comes out of the proceeds; think about it.

Your lawyer's only job is to look out for your best interests. A written agreement to purchase a home binds you legally to its provisions. Before you sign anything, your lawyer can review the agreement and advise you of changes, clauses or contingencies that they feel are necessary. You are not obliged to use a lawyer recommended by either your agent or your lender.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Do-It-Yourself Buyers - Get your own real estate agent!

2007-02-22T15:46:00.001-08:00

Most of us think of a real estate agent as
representing the seller, which they usually
do. But having your own agent to help you
buy a home can save you time and money.
A good buyer's agent can help you find the
right home quickly because they know the
area and have access to listings, agent open
houses and other information.

Your buyer's agent can advise you on market
conditions and appropriate prices, pre-inspect
homes for you so you don't waste time on
something completely unsuitable and recommend
the other professionals you need from home
inspectors to lawyers. The seller's agent has a legal
responsibility to act in their best interest, not
yours. You need a trained professional in your
corner, and that's a Buyer's Agent.

It is essential to communicate exactly what your
needs are to your Buyer's Agent, so you are both
looking for the same home. Choose your agent
with as much care as if you were selling a home
and if he wants you enter into a formal agreement,
make sure it includes a cancellation clause in
case you aren't satisfied with the service.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Why put any money down on a home?...Go 100% financing!

2007-02-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

Why put any money down on a home?...Go 100% financing!

With the recent enhancements to 100% financing products which allow for fully discounted broker rates, it is a wonder if there is any benefit to making a down payment on a home if you don't have to. For example:

With 5% down payment - the insurance premium is 2.75%
With 0% down payment - the insurance premium is 3.10%

Taking that into consideration, let's see what difference it makes on a $300,000 purchase.

At 95% Financing:
Purchase Price: $300,000
Down Payment: 5% = $15,000
Insurance Premium: 2.75% = $7837.50

At 100% Financing:
Purchase Price: $300,000
Down Payment: 0% = $0
Insurance Premium: 3.10% = $9300

So, for a premium difference of only $1463 you don't have to make a down payment.

Furthermore, take that $15,000 and deposit it into an RSP. At an average 40% refund rate you would get approximately $6000 back.

Apply that refund back onto the mortgage and not only have you reduced your mortgage amount by $6000 but you also have a $15,000 RSP.

Happy house hunting,

David Shieh

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Buy if you love Canada

2007-02-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

This editorial first appeared in the December 25, 2006, issue of Maclean’s magazine:

Buy if you love Canada

How much are Canadians worth? The short answer: a lot. Last week’s study by Statistics Canada, "The Wealth of Canadians," was so full of good tidings one scarcely knows where to start. The total value of Canadians’ assets is up 42 per cent since 1999, to a staggering $5.6 trillion. And the net worth of the median Canadian family now stands at $148,400.

Curiously, most reporting on this study fixated on the increase in household debt, which also rose substantially to $760 billion. This was widely seen as evidence that Canadians are finding themselves deeper in debt and worse for it. A closer look reveals not a dangerous predilection for careless spending, but rather an astute investment in both personal wealth and social stability.

According to StatsCan, three-quarters of total household debt is mortgages. Credit card debt is a mere 3.4 per cent. This great emphasis on mortgage debt has pushed the rate of home ownership in Canada from 59.6 per cent to 61.9 per cent over the past six years. It’s a statistic worth celebrating. But can we do even better?

The financial benefits of owning your own home are substantial. It represents the bulk of Canadian families’ personal assets as well as a kind of retirement savings program. But the country as a whole also gains from broad-based home ownership. In many ways, the homeowner is the modern version of Thomas Jefferson’s yeoman farmer, the bedrock of democracy and political participation. Owning a home means having a stake in the functioning of society. Homeowners tend to be regular voters, are more engaged in their local institutions, and contribute to their neighbourhoods in ways that renters do not. Rising home ownership rates reflect a general sense of optimism in Canada. Even higher levels of debt would thus be welcome, if it meant more Canadian families were getting their own bit of land.

It is an odd thing, then, that no politician or political party seems interested in championing the Canadian dream of home ownership. Low inflation and corporate competition have resulted in innovations such as zero-down mortgages and 35- or 40-year amortizations, making mortgages more affordable. But at the same time, a great many government policies seem specifically designed to drive home prices upward. Greenbelts, mandated density rules and other forms of restrictive planning conspire to frustrate home ownership by making houses more expensive, particularly in larger urban centres. "Sprawl" is the pejorative urban planners use when they wish to ignore the benefits of owning your own home.

The Australians, by contrast, embrace this dream. "We should encourage and nurture the aspirations to home ownership," said Peter Costello, the treasurer of Australia, this past summer in lamenting the various local planning barriers to growth in his country. Home ownership rates in Australia are nearly 70 per cent, among the highest in the world. Yet the federal government wants to push it even higher because the benefits are so obvious and wide-ranging. Is there anyone in Canada who will take up a similar crusade?

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Landmark's REALTOR open 2006

2006-12-13T21:31:00.000-08:00

Ahhh winter is in the air & this is the season to give & be merry,

In the spirit of giving, Landmark Realty Corp.'s owners decided to have an open house to celebrate Christmas. Everyone who was there has an amazing time.

Enjoy the pictures & once again... if you want digital copies please give me a call at 604-825-7007 or email me at david@abbotsfordhousing.com

Click HERE to view the open house pictures.

Merry Christmas,

Dave & Claire

Landmark's Xmas Party Pics

2006-12-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Landmark Realty Corp, had their annual Christmas party this year at the Ramada Conference Centre in Abbotsford. Approximately 175 people showed up & everyone had a great time. Some had more fun than others but we won't name names.

Enjoy.

Please click this LINK to see all the pictures. If you need full size pics (to print) please call 604-825-7007 or email me at david@abbotsfordhousing.com & I'll send them to you.

Merry Christmas!

Dave & Claire

How Much Home Can You Afford?

2006-10-04T23:09:00.000-07:00

10 “DONT'S” for a Home Buyer

2006-10-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

There are several things that should be avoided before purchasing a home. If you aren’t careful to avoid these common mistakes, it is possible that your closing will be delayed or even canceled. Your adherence to the following rules will put the keys to the house in your hands quickly.

First, don’t damage your debt to income ratio by making a major purchase before closing. If you decide you can’t live without that brand new BMW, you might have to wait on owning a home. The bank could easily determine that your sky high car payment would hinder your ability to pay your mortgage. Wait until after you get the house to do some spending. No one expects a brand new house full of furniture and a sports car in the driveway unless you are a famous sports figure or Donald Trump.

Secondly, don’t change jobs if you don’t have to. The lenders like to see consistency versus constant job hopping. If you are just miserable with your job, maybe you can switch to a different job within the same field. Or you can tough it out until you have the house and then start putting out resumes.

Also, you should never surrender your earnest money to a For Sale by Owner Seller. There isn’t anything stopping the sellers from spending the money before the transaction goes through. If the deal should fall through, the buyers would have to fight tooth and nail to get that deposit back. You should put the deposit into a trust account. You should be able to find an attorney willing to hold the deposit for you until the transaction is finalized. Your contract needs to state what will happen to the deposit in the event that the transaction falls through.

In addition, never let emotions guide you. Stay practical and realistic during the home buying process. Some sellers are willing to fix some of the problems with the home and others may not be as willing. Don’t let that refusal close the door on your dream home. Conversely, you shouldn’t let your loyalty to the home blind you to costly repairs down the road. You certainly don’t want to be in a money pit.

Furthermore, don’t forget to have the utilities activated. The utility companies might need a few days to switch the service. Don’t forget to cancel the service at the old residence. That seems simple enough, yet many people forget that step entirely.

Another costly mistake might be forgetting to secure hazard insurance. Talk to your insurance company right away because the lender will want to see proof of coverage for the new home at closing. Failing to line up the insurance will lead to delays in closing.

You should not get too personal with the seller. After all, this is a business transaction, so it should be treated professionally. If you get into too many personal discussions, you might say something that could be taken the wrong way by the seller. You might have been joking about the ugly green carpet in the guest bedroom, but the seller might have taken that as offensive. In the end, it could hurt the dynamics of the transaction. You should be friendly, but professional.

If the appraisal comes in too low, don’t freak out. There are several solutions to this dilemma. The seller might be willing to come down on the price of the home. The buyer can put more money down if they are committed to that home. The buyer and seller can negotiate the deal or the appraisal can be disputed.

Don’t forget to use your agent. It is the agent’s job to keep up with the daily details of the deal, including the lender, the seller, and the seller’s agent. It is also your agent’s responsibility to set up a final walkthrough prior to closing.

Lastly, don’t forget to take care of your end of the deal. You must be on the same page as the lender. Provide them with the paperwork they need and answer their questions in a timely manner. Failure to do so will keep you from opening the front door of your new home.

These are some of the most common mistakes home buyers make. Educating yourself about the process will ensure a smoother transaction and a definite housewarming party.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Year-to-Date Home Sales Among Highest in a Decade

2006-10-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Vancouver, BC – September 14, 2006. As summer vacations drew to a close, August home sales in BC eased from 2005 figures. Even so, a comparison of year-to-date totals demonstrates the strength of the current market.

The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports 8,402 homes, worth more than $3.36 billion, were sold across the province on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in August 2006. This represents a 3.57 per cent decrease in dollar volume and a 19.38 per cent decrease in the number of units sold during August 2005. August 2006 figures do not include statistical information from the Kootenay Real Estate Board.

“The figures are consistent with the fact that August is traditionally a slower month for home sales,” says BCREA President Kelly Lerigny . “With many people on vacation or enjoying quality time in their communities, we tend to see a slower market toward the end of the summer.”

From a year-to-date perspective, 2006 unit sales are nearly on pace with the record totals seen in 2005, with this year’s figures down a little more than 5 per cent. Year-to-date dollar volume figures are up more than 12 per cent from last year (see below). This year also marks the highest year-to-date dollar volume and the second-highest year-to-date unit sales totals in the last decade (see attached).

“Despite recent decreases in homes sales, the market remains quite healthy,” says Lerigny. “Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, a REALTOR® has the know-how and experience to help you buy or sell your home.”

A study prepared by Clayton Research Associates Limited found the average BC home sold on the MLS® between 2002 and 2004 triggered nearly $28,000 in additional spending, including legal fees, moving expenses, furniture and appliance purchases and taxes. Using that figure, BC homes sold on the MLS® in 2006 have already generated almost $2 billion in additional spending.

BCREA represents 12 member real estate boards and their more than 16,000 REALTORS® on all provincial issues, providing an extensive communications network, standard forms, government relations, required post-licensing courses and continuing education. To demonstrate the profession’s commitment to improving Quality of Life in BC communities, BCREA supports growth that encourages economic vitality, provides housing opportunities and builds communities with good schools and safe neighbourhoods.

For detailed statistical information, contact your local real estate board. MLS® is a cooperative marketing system used only by Canada ’s real estate boards to ensure maximum exposure of properties listed for sale.

Multiple Listing Service® - August 2006* - BC Residential Sales Data

Upgrade your kitchen without remodeling

2006-09-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

How to find school catchment areas

2006-07-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

People need to be aware that the boundaries for school catchment areas are not always obvious. To determine which school your children will be attending, try this link to keep track of school’s catchment area.

Type in the address or postal code and you’ll receive information on the school service available in that area.

CLICK HERE for Abbotsford Catchment Areas

Until next time,

David Shieh
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Tips for the First Time Home Buyer

2006-06-24T19:49:00.000-07:00

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting things you will ever do. If you have spent years living in apartments, there is nothing more satisfying than owning your own property. The process can be a little lengthy and you might hit a few bumps in the road to home ownership. The following tips will help the first time homeowner avoid some of the hiccups.

An important tip is to get your finances in order before you apply for a mortgage. Order a copy of your credit report so you can check it for accuracy. Mistakes are common and you want to make sure that there is no fraudulent activity. You have the right to dispute errors on your credit report. If you come across something that you know is an error, circle it and send it to the reporting agency along with a letter of dispute.

Next, you should really study the mortgage industry. You need to be able to find the right loan and lender most suitable for your needs. Familiarize yourself with industry terms like debt to income ratio and adjustable rate mortgage. Learn the difference between pre-approval and pre-qualified. It will all seem foreign at first, but taking the time to learn the business will spare you from headaches in the future.

Also, you need to figure out what your wants and needs are. What kinds of amenities are you looking for? How many bedrooms? One story or two story home? You also need to consider the size of the down payment and figure out what you need to do to come up with the money for it.

You must learn about how real estate agents work. There are buyer’s agents and seller’s agents. A buyer’s agent’s responsibility is to negotiate the best deal for the buyer. The goal of the seller’s agent is to get the price that the seller most desires. The best way to find the right agent is to ask your friends for suggestions. They have all probably been in the same boat, so they can probably recommend a good real estate agent. When meeting with a potential agent, pay attention to how they treat you. Make sure they listen to you when you talk about what you want. Also, how are their follow up skills? Do they take the time to return your calls or emails? If they don’t take the time to respond, move on. There is a better agent out there for you.

Before you even think about making an offer, you need to consider the resale value. You might plan on being there for a long time, but you just never know. You might opt for a different climate to alleviate your allergies or you could simply be transferred by your company. You want to pick a good location that will be attractive to others as well.

Another issue that cannot be ignored are the easment restrictions, which govern what you can and cannot do with the property. If it has always been your dream to have a pool, you want to make sure that you don’t buy a home in a subdivision that won’t allow it because of restrictions.

Home inspections are an important part of the equation. Talk to your agent to find out when the inspection will be performed. It varies province to province. Sometimes the inspection will be right before the contract is signed and other times, they are performed right after an offer is made.

Finally, make sure you stay on top of things. Any number of problems can crop up at the last minute and delay the purchase of your home. If you aren’t sure about something with the paperwork, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You might think of something that everyone else has overlooked. Purchasing a home is a time consuming task, but it is worth it when you have your backyard barbeques.

Until next time,
David Shieh
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

The Basics of Buying a Home

2006-06-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

Buying a home can be one of the biggest and most important investments you can make. The process of buying the home that you want can be a long and tedious process, taking up most of your time. It’s up to you, as the consumer, to ask any questions, pay attention to details and to learn about the real estate market in the area in which you intend to buy.

Step One

You must know what your wants and needs are before embarking on the long journey of house hunting. Taking a piece of paper, sit down and write down all the features that are most important to you:

Are you looking for a house in a specific city, neighborhood or school district?

How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want or need?

Do you want off street parking, or a one or two car garage?

If you operate a home based business, are there any restrictions in the area you intend to buy in?

Do you want a finished basement or attic space?

Do you want a ranch style home or two story house?

Do you want a central air unit?

Do your want a furnace or a boiler for heat?

Now, on a separate piece of paper, write down all the features that you absolutely do not want in a house:

Living in a congested part of town.

Living next to an airport, train station or highway.

A home that is in great need of repair.

A home with too many stairs.

Keep this list in mind as you look at houses. This list may also change from time to time as you look at houses. You may choose to add or remove certain features you do not want or are willing to make compromises on. Don’t be disappointed if you can not find the “perfect” home. Most homes do not come “perfect,” they can only be made that way through time and patience.

Step Two

Before you begin looking at properties, you will need to get your finances in order. This will be a good time to review your credit report and possibly clean it up a bit to improve your credit score. It’s important to check your credit report to make sure there are no discrepancies. Any past due amounts should be paid in full or most companies will be willing to negotiate a settlement price to close the debt.

For example: If you have a past due credit card debt you no longer use and that has been entered into collections at an amount of $900. You may be able to offer the company a settlement of $500 to settle that debt and have the debt stricken from your records. Before paying this settlement, have this agreement in writing. Be sure to keep all of the receipts to the items you settle on your credit report because it may take weeks or even months for the settled debt to be removed from your credit report.

Step Three

Now decide what kind of property you are interested in buying. Are you interested in a HUD, foreclosure, real estate or for sale by owner property? There are many websites on line where you can find homes by city, state, or price range. On these sites, you can see the picture of the home, many with virtual tours, and review the listing features and details.

Step Four

Now is the time to find a lender and get pre-approved for the loan. This will give you a better understanding of what price range you can look into. Being pre-approved also serves a great advantage for when you find the home that you want, so that you can move ahead and place an offer on the house without having to wait on a pre-approval while someone else steps in and takes the house right from under you.

Lenders may offer special programs on loans that can save you extra money in the closing process. Before deciding on a loan, ask the lender about any of these special programs and what would work to your advantage.

Step Five

Most first time home buyers prefer to work closely with a reputable real estate agent, regardless of the type of property you wish to buy. Real estate agents are very knowledgeable and can give you many helpful tips and information that can benefit you. They are also great negotiators and will help explain the complicated paperwork involved when placing an offer on the house or when closing a deal. Be certain that your real estate agent is working for you as the buyer and not for the seller of the house you would like to purchase. This can lead to a conflict of interests and cause many problems.

Choosing a real estate agent to work with should take more than picking a number out of the phone book. Talk to your friends and neighbors and ask them for any recommendations. You should only work with an agent you feel comfortable with.

Until next time,
David Shieh
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Ten Mistakes that will ensure that your house DOESN'T sell

2006-06-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Just as there are many things you can do to improve your chances of selling your house at a great price, there is an equal number of things that will drive away potential buyers and leave you scratching your head.

If you are working with a realtor, he or she will be able to make suggestions on how to make your particular home more saleable, but addressing the following problem areas is always a great place to start.

A smelly house is not an attractive house to potential buyers. The problem with odors such as cigarette smoke and pet smells is that you live with them day in and day out and may not notice them. To an outsider, however, the smell will be pungent and noticeable. You can get rid of these odors by smoking outside, keeping litter boxes fresh and in a contained area, repainting walls, shampooing and steam-cleaning carpets and opening your windows to let in fresh air. Don’t try to cover odors with an air freshener without taking steps to eliminate the problem; it won’t work and your house will still be smelly and unwelcoming to potential buyers. Removing odors from mold and mildew can be a little tougher and may require professional intervention if the affected area is not easily accessible (between walls for example).

Pets: you love them and think of them as part of the family. Your potential buyer may not share your sentiment, so like other members of the family, your furry companions should not be on site while someone is inspecting your house. Pile everyone in the family vehicle, or crate your pets in the yard so potential buyers can look around without being barked at, snarled at or pounced on.

Bathrooms are associated with hygiene, so unclean bathrooms are a major turn-off for most buyers. Make sure your toilet, tub, and sink are sparkling clean and that the drains are clear and free of wet hair and other odor-trapping debris. Shine your faucets and mirrors, de-clutter the medicine chest, empty the trash pail and launder your towels, shower curtain and floor mats.

Dark rooms look dingy and uninviting. Increase the brightness factor of your rooms by adding brighter bulbs (if appropriate), installing extra fixtures, or by placing accent lamps or cabinet lighting throughout the room. An even simpler fix is to pull back heavy curtains and lift your blinds. Trimming low-hanging branches from nearby trees can also help.

Busy wallpaper is a no-no. Too many patterns can be distracting and can date your décor. Consider removing busy wallpaper, but don’t paint over it because that will look even worse.

Wet basements are a cause for concern as they can indicate foundation leaks. More often however, damp basements are a sign of poor ventilation, plugged drains, or improperly positioned downspouts. Remove any mold or mildew that may have appeared as a result of dampness.

Bugs; they’re usually harmless, but still an obstacle to home sales. Squash what you can, clear cobwebs, and enlist professional help if you have an infestation.

Low curb appeal can discourage potential buyers from taking a closer look at your home. Spruce up your yard, entry and façade. Make sure your paint isn’t peeling, and that gardens look their best, even if out of season. Bicycles, lawn mowers and tools should be neatly stored in a shed or in the garage if necessary.

Plugged Gutters. Potential buyers may not notice blocked gutters during an initial showing, but they will turn up during a professional building or home inspection, which could be the difference between a conditional sale going ahead or not.

Clear out when someone is looking at your house. Potential buyers may feel awkward looking around your house if you are hovering over their shoulder. Working with a realtor to sell your house eliminates this problem, as they act as chaperone during the showing without intimidating your buyer.

Most of these fixes are simple and inexpensive to implement, yet can have a major impact on the saleability of your house. If possible, address any of the issues that are present in your home before you list it for sale.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

2006-06-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

Use this handy checklist to help you while starting the cleanup of your outdoor space.
* Inspect the exterior walls of your entire home. Look for signs of winter damage such as splitting wood, peeling paint, mold, etc.
* Got brick? It should be cleaned and checked for water damage once a year. Aside from cleaning the surface by use your hose with a spray nozzle to wash off dirt, you need to be on the lookout for mold. If there is mold, mildew, or moss, wash with a solution of 1 cup of bleach mixed with 4 L of water. Use a natural or synthetic bristle brush. Wire brushes leave traces of steel behind that will rust and discolor the bricks.
* If you use them, remove the storm windows.
* Clean the windows.
* Use screens? Make sure they are dust-free and sparkling clean before putting them up.
* Check the driveway for cracks or winter damage.
* Clean the steps and the driveway with a spray nozzle hose. If moss is visible, pour vinegar on it and scrub.
* Inspect the gutters around the house. Remove debris.
* Inspect the roof, looking for damage and missing or loose shingles. Contact a roofing professional if you need a few replacements.
* Get your deck ready for use. Clean it with oxalic acid, which will penetrate the wood and kill microorganisms. Once dry (24 hours), treat the deck with a sealant.
* If boards on your deck are splintered or worn beyond repair, replace them before you seal and stain.
* Prepare outdoor furniture for use. If you kept the furniture out during the winter months, you need to scrub the surfaces clean. If you stored your furniture, bring it outside and make sure it's clean.
* Put on those gardening gloves, it's time to weed! The first step to a beautiful, clean garden is to remove weeds. It is important to leave a few, however, as they do have a purpose; they are food for insects and create a covered landscape for little critters.
* If you haven't removed the covers you placed on your shrubs and trees, and are confident you won't have another frost, remove the covers.
* Give your garden it a filled-in appearance until it grows in. Sprinkle mulch around shrubs, trees, and flowerbeds.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Secondary Suites in Abbotsford, BC

2006-06-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

A secondary suite is defined as a portion of a single-family house, which is established as a separate dwelling unit from the principal part of the house. It is typically a finished basement with kitchen facilities, a separate entrance from the exterior, and a lockable door between two portions of the house.

Suites are required to be registered with the City. Registration confirms that suites comply with the BC Building Code and Abbotsford Zoning Bylaw, 1996. To be legalized, health, life safety, fire protection, and zoning requirements must be met.

Unauthorized suites may be fined $200 per day for every day that the suite is not registered, in keeping with Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw No. 42-95.

To avoid being fined, property owners must register their Accessory Secondary Suites with Inspection Services (Building) Division. There is a $550 fee to register an existing Accessory Secondary Suite. An infrastructure fee of $250 is also payable with the annual tax notice each year.

Contact Inspection Services at 604-864-5525 for suite registration information.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Real Estate Glossary

2006-05-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

A

Amortization: The number of years it will take to pay back your mortgage loan.

Anniversary: Most lenders allow borrowers to make payments against the principal on the anniversary of the mortgage.

Appraisal: The act of estimating the market value of a property.

Appreciation: The increase in value in a home from when the home was first purchased.

Approved Lender: A lending institution, authorized by the Government of Canada, to make loans under the terms of the National Housing Act. Only Approved Lenders can negotiate mortgages that require mortgage insurance.

Assumption Agreement: A legal document signed by the homebuyer that requires the buyer to assume responsibility for the obligations of a mortgage by the builder or the previous owner.
Source: HGTV.ca
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Move, or Fix Up the Kitchen

2006-05-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

Many kitchens, especially those in older homes, don't work well with today's busy lifestyles. Major kitchen renovation aside, there's a lot you can do to make your kitchen more comfortable and functional; and there's no need to throw in the dishtowel and go house hunting, call a professional renovator, or blow all your savings.

So what can one do? Take on smaller projects. To update or upgrade your kitchen, it's not necessary do full makeover all at once. Take it in stages. Make one change at a time. You'll be amazed at how fresh and new the room feels at each step!

The first thing you should do is examine your kitchen with a clinical eye to determine the problem areas. Then have a look below for our solutions.

No Storage

The lack of adequate storage equals overcrowding. This makes it difficult to find supplies for cooking, and to tidy up afterward.

What you can do:

· Get rid of (or move to another storage space) everything you don't use regularly, including spices, canned goods, cereals, and snack foods.

· Keep one set of dishes. Dispose of chipped and mismatched crockery. Get rid of your collection of coffee mugs that have seen better days. Keep only what you have room to store.

· Shop more regularly and don't buy extras other than the staples.

· Build in more storage by adding stock cabinetry or open shelving for frequently-used items.

· An open Shaker-style dish rack is perfect over the sink and will free up some space.

No Surfaces

Limited counter space is a definite problem for anyone who cooks.

What you can do:

· Add a small, wheeled island to your kitchen.

· Buy a freestanding preparation or serving cart. This source of extra space can be tucked into a corner when not in use.

· Clear what do you have off the counter.

· Build half shelves under the kitchen table or eating counter to hold the toaster, mixer, or other appliances.

Unattractive Cabinets

Since cabinetry takes up most of the wall space, outdated cabinets or those in poor repair can leave the kitchen feeling depressed.

What you can do:

· If your budget allows, replace the cabinets new stock or custom-made cabinetry designed to make the most use of space.

· Renew drab, existing cabinets with a fresh coat of paint.

· Change the style by adding trim detail to flat-faced doors.

· Insert glass or metal panels.

· Combine open and closed storage ideas to maximize eye appeal.

· Change the cabinet hardware for a new look.

Flooring Woes

Any surface, especially a floor, that is worn out or stained will ruin the overall effect of a room. Your kitchen floor should be durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean.

What you can do:

· With damaged floors, replacement is the best option. Check out the variety of flooring available. Options include:

· Vinyl - The least expensive. Its quality increases with thickness. Choose a colour or pattern that suits.

· Linoleum - Soft and warm. Extremely durable and hygienic. Modern colour options have brought it back in vogue.

· Prefinished wood or laminate floors - Easy to install. Durable. You can design your own look by combining two colours to make border detail.

· Cork floors - Naturally beautiful and comfortable.

· Tile and stone - Both stylish and hardwearing, but the unforgiving surface is hard on feet.

Lack of Focus

Is your kitchen fading into the woodwork? Without a focal point, any kitchen will look like it has a case of the blahs.

What you can do:

· Make the backsplash the kitchen's focal point by putting up some new tiles or painting it a cheery colour.

· Paint your dated laminate cabinets or countertops with Melamine paint.

· Paint an exuberant colour on the walls.

You'll never go wrong investing in your kitchen space. It will improve your daily outlook and, if you do decide to sell, it will make the house that much more appealing to buyers.
By Barb Dingle, co-author of Debbie Travis' books

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Top Ten Ways to Tell It's Time to Make a Move

2006-05-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

Does the thought of changing your neighbourhood go through your mind more often than not? Here are some key indicators on when you really should consider making that move.

1. You Have Outgrown Your Neighbourhood

Your über-trendy, urban borough seemed just the thing five years ago. But suddenly, you are annoyed by the loud music spilling out of bars, clubs, and your neighbour's stereo. You long to go window-shopping and not face alarmingly skimpy outfits you would never wear. It is time to face facts: you are growing up, but your neighbourhood is not. Instead of wasting time judging your neighbours, consider a quieter or more sophisticated locale.

2. You Constantly Scan the Classified Ads

You have never been in a good position to sell your home, but have often dreamed of moving. A larger home. A smaller home. A country home. A city home. Lately, you find yourself scanning the classifieds, picking up home magazines, and even writing down phone numbers and website addresses. Speak with a professional and determine where you stand. It's probably time to make your dream home a priority.

3. You Are Starting a Family

Selling a home and moving is a big job, and starting a family an even bigger one. You do not want to be stuck doing both at the same time. If you are thinking seriously about having a child, it is also time to start thinking seriously about buying a family friendly home. There is nothing worse than packing and moving while pregnant, or worse, with a toddler underfoot.

4. Your Family Has Grown

Are your kids sharing a bedroom? Is your yard too small for a swing set? Do you often think wistfully of backward barbecues by the pool? Then the time has come to consider buying a home that will grow with your family. If you live in a city, it may be necessary to consider moving to the outskirts, where property is less dear.

5. You Have Made A Job Change

You have changed jobs and the commute is killing you. Although you are happy with your home, you are not happy with the extra hour you must travel to work each day. The reality is that the stress of a daily commute can subtract years from your life. If you want to have more time to spend patting yourself on the back for corporate successes, move closer to the office.

6. Home Renovation Is Not Enough

You are constantly working on a home improvement project, but are never satisfied. Perhaps you are simply a home-Reno junkie. Or perhaps, this endless fussing and fixing is a sign that your home just isn't doing it for you anymore.

7. Your Neighbourhood Is Going to the Dogs

Crime is on the rise, you feel nervous when the children are at school, and barely feel comfortable walking to the corner store. Do not waste time waiting for the situation to improve. Sell before your property value goes down in tandem with the quality of your neighbourhood.

8. Space Is An Issue

Moving into a one bedroom with your partner seemed like a good idea at the time, but you simply do not have enough room for all your stuff. There are plenty of good reasons to upgrade to a two bedroom. Consider moving up and out.

9. Properties In Your Neighbourhood Are Selling High

Your neighbour stopped by last week and mentioned the Joneses sold their home on the corner for a handsome price. Your curiosity is piqued. Do some research - a home is an investment, and if you can reap some financial rewards, go for it.

10. Your Home Is Too Big For You

The kids have moved out, and a big house is no longer necessary. It may be difficult to let go of the family home, with all the fond memories it holds. But downgrading to a smaller home will make it easier as you grow older, and will also free up some money to make those retirement travel or cottage dreams come true.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Update Items at Eye Level

2006-05-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

When a dull stair runner, dated backsplash or boring wall colour is replaced or enhanced, it offers immediate gratification. A fresh coat of paint offers huge impact at minimal cost.

Add elegance by accentuating walls with tall baseboards and crown moulding made of MDF, which looks like wood but costs less. (Or, simply add one-inch diameter half-round trim above your existing baseboards, eight inches from the floor. Paint the entire new "baseboard" the same colour, using paintable caulking first, to fill in gaps, if necessary.)
Copyright 2006 Kamloops This Week

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Don't ignore curb appeal.

2006-05-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

To catch buyers’ attention, make sure the exterior is clean and in good shape. Landscaping and lawn care go a long way in home presentation -- as can most exterior repairs and upgrades (new paint, siding, fencing or lighting).
Source:HGTV.com
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Landmark Realty Volleyball Party

2006-05-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

Today, Claire and I went to a Landmark Realty volleyball party at Jim Rempel's, one of the partner's, house. It was fun playing volleyball and meeting the partner's of the company. A big surprise that happened was the beautiful rainbow that God gave us during the party. Due to the rain only 12 people showed up but nevertheless we had soooo much fun. Thank you Jim for hosting the party!

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Establish Your Criteria When Looking For A House

2006-05-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

Before you start house hunting, decide on what you really need. Then list the features that would be nice to have. Once you have a clear idea of what you need as well as what you would like in a house, finding that house will be much easier.

Be realistic. Looking for a home takes time, so focus on what's important to you. After looking at lots of homes, the line between "I need a garage" and "I want a garage" can get very blurry.

Many people focus more on what they'd like to have instead of focusing on what they actually need - that can mean they pass up a home that meets their needs in hopes of finding one that meets their wants.

Ultimately, you should be able to find a home that is a blend of your needs and wants.

To help keep your priorities in order, make a wish list and a must-have list, and take them with you whenever you look at a house. Share them with your real estate agent as well; he or she can search for homes based on your list.
Source: FreddieMac
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Here are some good house hunting tips

2006-05-17T19:01:00.000-07:00

Take pictures inside and outside the home.
Bring a spouse, family member, or friend.
Make sure the house fits into your budget.
Ask about utility and maintenance costs.
Think of commuting time and costs.
Compare what you'd like to have against what you really need.
Consider your monthly budget - can you afford the renovations and maintenance that you'll need to do?
Compare what you'd like to have against what you really need.
Don't make a "spur-of-the-moment" decision.

Source:Freddiemac

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Please pray for HEALING for my co-worker's cousin who was attacked by a BEAR!

2006-05-16T16:43:00.000-07:00

Today, while my wife & I were walking through the mall, we came across one of my co-workers from Landmark Realty. She told us that her cousin in Calgary was severely attacked by a hungry bear while mountain biking. He is now in the hospital in critical condition. The very least my wife & I could do for her was pray that God would heal her cousin. Please pray for him as well.

NEWS ARTICLE- CALGARY HERALD
Mountain bikers save man from bear attack

Sherri Zickefoose and Craig Douce, CanWest News Service
Published: Sunday, May 14, 2006

CALGARY--Cries for help alerted friends to a mauled mountain biker being dragged into the trees and guarded by a black bear in Banff, Alta.

The 41-year-old man was riding alone on a trail on the outskirts of town Friday evening when he was attacked.

"This potentially was a predatory attack," said Ian Syme, Banff National Park's chief park warden. "There are indications there was a struggle for some time," he said, adding the prolonged attack was unusual. After most surprise encounters, bears will leave the area.

"He's very lucky he was found when he was."

The bear slashed and bit the man, and dragged him about 50 metres off the trail into the trees.

Mountain bikers Robert Earl and Robin Borstmayer came across the man's bicycle --and broken blue helmet -- lying across the path just after 8 p.m.

It was a bike Earl instantly recognized -- it belonged to his colleague in the town office.

But the attack victim was nowhere to be seen, until he cried out. "It was a cry for help from the woods: 'Help, help me,"' said Earl, who is Banff's town manager.

The man yelled out a warning that the bear was still nearby. Borstmayer rode to a nearby campground to get help and Earl stayed behind to protect his injured friend, who was in shock.

"The bear would disappear over a rise perhaps 50 yards away. We would lose sight for five minutes or so, and then the bear would reappear," he said.

A warden shot and killed the young bear after it continued lingering at the scene despite the growing number of people in the area.

The young male bear, believed about 150 pounds, was thin. "We're very confident this was the bear involved. He was not in very good shape," said Syme.

A necropsy was performed on the bear Saturday to help wardens learn about its health and if it was diseased.

"I don't think there's any question if we hadn't shown up it would be a different story," said Borstmayer, who added the bear encounter is his first.

"I'm glad that I was on that trail last night. And I'm glad I could help a friend in need," said Earl. "He's a valued town employee and certainly my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family."

The man suffered chest and arm injuries and was flown to hospital in Calgary.

After surgery Saturday, he was listed in stable condition.

Wardens estimate there are about 10 grizzlies near town. Five to seven black bears are also in the area. With deep snow in the backcountry, bears are lured to the lower valleys in search of food.

Grizzly bears roaming an area where a woman was killed last summer caused conservation officers to close a number of Canmore, Alta., backcountry areas and trails earlier this month.

Isabelle Dube, 36, of Canmore was killed by a grizzly bear last June. Dube, a Quebec native, had been cross-country running in the area with two other women at the time of the attack.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

What is a Mortgage?

2006-05-15T21:54:00.000-07:00

Hiring an Interior Designer Made Easy

2006-05-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

Maybe you still haven’t managed to decorate. Maybe you have all those wonderful ideas for your home in the back of your mind but are hesitant to share them. Maybe you need someone to help you get organized, someone to focus your ideas, someone to tell you how much it’s all going to cost. It's time you talked to an interior designer.

But wait, you say. Isn’t that going to be expensive? What if they gain control of the design? What if you end up with something you don't like? Definitely not. Interior designers are professionals. They are there to offer you, the client, a service. Many offer first consultations free of charge. So when you make that phone call and set up that meeting, you are not setting yourself up for any risk, whatsoever. Using a good interior designer can actually give your home function, beauty and a fresh new perspective you never imagined.

1. Be calculative
Start with the budget. It's ideally the amount that you are happy to spend to achieve the result that you desire. It is your responsibility as the client to have a clear idea about your budget before you start looking for your designer. Remember, permanent, added-value home improvements designed and supervised by a professional come with a price tag. You are paying for the designer’s design expertise; ability to source from trade-only suppliers of furniture, fabrics and accessories; and the time they save you from having to organize and supervise builders, painters, joiners, plumbers, etc.

2. Be communicative
By talking to you and looking at your existing environment, a good designer can diagnose your taste and pinpoint your favourite style. Take them around, show them the room or rooms you want decorated, and if you have any photos of styles you like or dislike, show them to the designer. They should ask you about your hobbies, your family, your colour preferences, your pets, whether you entertain at home, whether you frequently have overnight guests. By learning about you and analyzing your requirements, the designer is putting together the first building blocks of the eventual design.

At the second meeting, the designer should have a package of ideas to show you. This may be presented in any number of ways; a sample board of fabrics and pictures of furniture is one option, sketches and swatches of fabric to discuss is another.

3. Be clear
Allocate percentages to your project. That way, you are better able to see what you can afford, and are willing, to spend on each area of the redecoration. If you want to have an elaborate curtain treatment, you may have to reduce your budget for the floor covering, or vice versa. This method also helps you to prioritize your decoration requirements. By being honest with your interior designer about your design priorities and your budget, you are more likely to receive an interior design and service that will delight you.

4. Be specific
Check that the interior designer you choose has a defined fee structure and make sure you get this in writing. Ensure that the designer knows your decoration budget and be clear about whether the design fees are included in this budget, or are paid on top. Give the designer the budget breakdown and as much specific information as possible about your expectations within that budget - if you’re expecting to get that antique reclaimed parquet floor above all else, then make this clear. If your desired object isn’t within the scope of your defined budget, the designer can get back to you early on in the project to juggle the budget allocations.

The interior designer will welcome clear information on your budget because it is a real time saver for both of you. If the budget extends only to slipcovers for existing furniture, let the designer know this before they set off to pound the pavement in a search for brand new furniture. (Remember, you’re probably paying for their sourcing time!)

5. Be Open
Open up your mind to new possibilities. Interior designers have the training and resources to explore design options. They can often help you see a room in a whole new light, just by the addition of some built-in furniture, a new colour scheme, a different curtain design, or by re-arranging the furniture. A designer is adept at combining elements in total harmony with each other while staying within the guidelines of your requirement.

A good designer will nudge you further along pathways upon which you may have already placed a tentative step. But a good designer will never impose their taste on your environment. Designers are there to work for you and to help you to achieve your design goal. If you’re not happy with something, say so. Always remember, you are in control.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

The Condo Craze

2006-05-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

My New Ad!

2006-05-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

Today my marketing manager created a 1/4 newspaper ad for the Abbotsford Real Estate Weekly newspaper.

Input is very welcome. Let me know if you like it or not.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Maximizing Your Home's Resale Value

2006-05-10T23:23:00.000-07:00

Because our homes aren't just where we live—they're also a significant investment—resale is our opportunity to realize the highest return possible out of our investment. There are a few things you can do to make sure your home shows well and sells quickly—at the highest possible price.

Making the Most of Your Space

How furniture is laid out in a room can have a big impact on how big (or small) the room looks. Your lifestyle may really suit the two love seats, couch and chair you've got crammed into the family room, or the table, with both leaves in it, that seats eight in the kitchen. The big toy box and all the shoes in the hallway may be necessary facts of life for you. Your home office, with its overflowing bookshelves and file cabinet, well... that's just the way you work. But these things can really add up to making a good-sized space seem smaller, and less desirable to a buyer for the price you're asking.

Consider making small changes while your home is being shown. Would your family room look larger with two love seats facing each other? Would the kitchen feel more open with a table for just four? Would the office be more accessible with the books behind doors and the file cabinet tucked under the desk? Would the hallway seem more welcoming if the toy box was in a closet, and the shoes were on a rack? By removing, downsizing and rearranging items you can ensure prospective buyers have a clear path to move through your space, adding to its feeling of spaciousness, and increasing the value for them.

The Art of Un-decor

Your place is probably decorated perfectly to suit your tastes. You love it—but it's entirely possible that only you could love it. Which could really limit the number of new purchasers that are going to love it and want to buy it.

Taste is a very personal thing, and if your style leans towards very bold, wild or dark colours, or having every room be very different from the last, most new purchasers will only see your home from the point of view of how much work and expense it will take them to reverse all your decorating decisions.

Keep walls and window coverings neutral, and try to create a colour flow from room to room. Neutral is what shows best and sells best, something real estate agents have proven time and time again.

If you've already got a neutral pallet, make sure it's fresh and up to date. Sometimes just washing walls in high traffic areas helps; other times a single coat of paint to touch up is required. A fresh coat of paint on baseboards and ceilings can really open up and light up a room, making it seem clean and new and well cared for.

Whatever you can do to create the space so that buyers feel like they can move right in is what will have buyers wanting to buy it.

Could I Live Here?

De-clutter is this year (and last's) most popular word, and it's an absolute must for getting your home ready to list. The added bonus is that you will have a lighter load to take to your new space.

If you really love all your stuff, can't bear to part with it and know it has a place in your new location, by all means, hang on to it. But clear as much of it as possible out of your home before you list.

Make use of your attic, crawl space, storage locker, or a neighbour's extra room; and if those aren't options - rent a storage space for the interim. If you know you really need to edit out things, and have trouble doing so, enlist the help of a friend, or hire a professional organizer to reduce your clutter.

A professional will not only be able to recycle your unwanted items with companies eager for donations, some may even have sources who will pay for larger items, and they get the job done, fast. The goal is to leave room so prospective purchasers can see where all their things would fit in.

Clean and Clear

Nothing sells a home like clean, and nothing devalues it faster than dirty. Make sure your place sparkles.

Great views are often spoiled by dirty windows. Kitchens and bathrooms both look better when the sinks and work surfaces are empty and clean. So even though your routine may demand that all your products and tools are on the counters, they need to be tucked away while your place is being shown. Bedrooms are much more inviting when beds are made, and clothes are hung up or in the hamper. Newspapers, books, magazines, toys, and stacks of mail take up a lot of visual space in living areas, and can make these areas look messy, even when they are clean.

A professional cleaning service can get into every nook and cranny and ensure that buyers see your home in its best possible light. Once it's clean, make sure every room does get seen in its best possible light by ensuring all light fixtures have all their bulbs. Dim rooms not only look smaller, but can create feelings of unease for a lot of people—making them want to leave fast and never come back!

Setting the Stage

So you followed all the suggestions, and now your home looks so good you're starting to wonder why you're selling it. After all, it seems pretty nice, you put out some fresh flowers, the rooms are a lot larger than they used to be, hmm.... But make sure you do leave, at least while agents are showing it. Go for a walk, to a movie, or for a coffee—the most effective way to sell your home is to not be in it!
Source: Molly Bennett

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Kitchen and Bath Quick Fixes:Trouble Shooting

2006-05-09T18:12:00.000-07:00

These tips will ensure that your quick fix will look good and last:

· When replacing hardware, take a measurement with you to the store to ensure the new handles will fit into the old screw holes. This will save you time and effort filling and sanding the previously drilled holes.

· The original paint in an older kitchen or bathroom is most likely oil-based. Clean and prepare the walls or cabinets, and use an oil-based primer. Then you can use the more environmentally friendly water-based paints to finish your project.

· Be sure surfaces are clean and dry before painting.

· Use a high-adhesion primer for slippery surfaces such as laminates.

· Water-based paint and varnish dries to the touch quickly. But allow your fresh finish to cure (dry through and harden) for at least 48 hours before using it.

· Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using melamine or oil-based paint or varnish.
· Don't paint a stove, sink, bathtub, toilet or tile floor. You can paint a refrigerator, or cover it with self-stick paper.
Source: Barbara Dingle

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Location, Location, Location

2006-05-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

Moving Checklist: What to do and when to do it

2006-05-06T00:55:00.000-07:00

Moving into a new home is an exciting time but it can also be stressful. Don’t despair. Whether you’re doing it yourself, asking friends for a little help or hiring professionals, here is your moving guide to help get you through it.

As soon as possible:

Start early. Investigate and research moving companies and/or trunk rental companies.

Hire a moving company or if you are doing it yourself, reserve a moving truck. Be sure to get written confirmation of all your costs and details of your move for your records.

Tip: Weekends and holiday long weekends are busy times for movers and trunk rental companies. Book far in advance (at least 2 to 3 months) to ensure you get the moving company or truck rental you want for the day you need to move.

2 months before moving day:

No sense moving what you don’t want to keep. Go through your home and determine what you want to keep and what you want to throw out or donate

Tip: If moving in spring or summer, earn some extra cash and hold a moving sale to help rid items you don’t need or want for you new space.

Make a list of items in your home that need extra attention while moving or special packing instructions (i.e. computers, televisions, fine china, etc.)

If you have children and you are moving to a new school district, start arranging the school transferring process.

Order boxes and moving supplies (packing tape, bubble wrap, tissue paper, stock up on newspaper, etc.) required for your move.

1 month before moving day:

Time to start packing! To make it easier, begin with the items in your home you do not use regularly. Be sure to clearly label or number your boxes to make the unpacking easier.

As you pack, make note of items of significant value (i.e. stereo systems, flat screen televisions). Depending on your insurance agreement with your moving company, you will need to declare items of value in case items are lost or damaged.

At your local postal office, fill out a change of address form with your new address.

Tip: For convenience Canada Post now offers this service online at www.smartmoves.ca.

Inform the following companies and institutions about your new address:

* Bank(s)
* Cable and phone provider(s)
* Insurance company(s)
* Hydro and utility company(s)
* Credit card company(s)
* Doctor and dentist office(s)

Tip: Many companies now offer the convenience of changing address information online.

If you are moving out of an apartment building, arrange for use of the elevator.

2 weeks before moving day:

Confirm your reservations with your movers or trunk rental company.

If required, cancel or transfer your newspaper delivery service.

1 week before moving day:

Most of your packing should be done one week prior to moving day.

Set aside the items of importance you wish to transport to your new home yourself (i.e. jewellery and passports).

A few days before moving day:

Re-confirm arrival time of your moving truck. If moving yourself, re-confirm your reservations with the trunk rental company.

Prepare a detailed map and directions for your movers including a cell phone number you can be reached at on moving day.

Pack a travel bag with the items your family may need on moving day such as tooth brushes, change of clothing, medications, hair bushes, soap, toilet paper, paper plates and cups, aspirin, etc.

If you are moving yourself, start dismantling beds and other large furniture.

Moving day:

Make a note of all utility meter readings (new and old home).

It’s important to be present when the truck is being loaded and unloaded just in case your movers have questions.

Before the movers leave, check your belongings and note on the inventory paperwork any damaged items.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

10 Ways To Make Your Home More Salable

2006-05-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

There's little doubt that the real estate marketplace is now in transition. Sale volume has begun to weaken and in many markets the days of quick sales and multiple offers are going or gone.

"The cooling from overheated sales conditions in recent months is helping to bring inventory levels up to the point where buyers have more choices than they've seen in the last five years," says David Lereah, NAR's chief economist. "Annual price appreciation is still running at double-digit rates, but the cause of those sharp increases is going away. As the market readjusts, price appreciation should return to more normal rates of growth this year."

Translation: Homes are not selling as quickly as before -- that's good news for buyers. Sharp increases in value are moderating -- that's also good for buyers. Values are not falling -- that's great news for sellers.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Home Builders says that permits for new construction for February fell by 3 percent when compared with a year earlier.

Neither the existing nor new home unit declines should trouble anyone. These changes follow record year after record year, a pace that's not sustainable. The good news is that the changes are modest rather than manic.

The catch is that a softer marketplace means sellers will have to fight harder to get top prices and quick sales. Here are 10 ways to get more out of your local marketplace.

1. Go for the junk -- and get rid of it. A house with less stuff looks bigger and roomier. If what you want to throw out can have value to others, see if you can help by donating goods to local charities.

2. Price within reason. Trying to sell a home for $700,000 when like homes go for $525,000 is a non-starter. The days of "testing" the market with huge price increases is finished in many areas. Overprice and you won't be competitive.

3. Use the best local broker you can find. Experience, connections and reputation can be a real edge when marketing a property.

4. Require your broker to have a marketing plan that makes sense for you and your property. The technique that sells one property may not be appropriate for another, so find the approach that's right for you.

5. If the home doesn't sell within a reasonable time period, think about changing the deal rather than lowering the price. In other words, rather than cutting the price from $500,000 to $480,000, instead keep the $500,000 price and offer a 2 percent "seller contribution" to help a buyer pay for closing costs. This approach is cheaper ($10,000 in closing cost help rather than a $20,000 price reduction) plus it gets to the real need of many buyers, closing assistance.

6. Have a home equity line of credit in place -- even if you don't expect to sell for several years. This way you can have funds available if you want to buy a replacement home while the current property is being sold. Just be aware of the risk -- if your current home does not sell in a reasonable period you could face lots of mortgage payments.

7. Make sure everything works -- and nothing leaks. Expect buyers to ask for a home inspection and be prepared to make reasonable repairs if requested. Remember that it may be better to upgrade an electrical service box than to look for a new buyer.

8. Find out what buyers thought after a showing or open house. Don't take negative comments personally. Look for ideas that can help you make a better impression with the next prospect.

9. Beware of buyers who want you to take back financing. At a time when loans with little or nothing down are available from every lender, don't go into the banking business and take back a loan when there is less risk to you with an outright sale.

10. Don't get upset with small inconveniences. If a prospect wants to see a home with little notice or at an odd hour, don't worry about it. It's better to show the property than to have a home which is both undisturbed and unsold.
by Peter G. Miller

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

How to Find a Real Estate Agent

2006-05-04T20:59:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home, a good real estate agent is essential – and can be hard to find. Here are the top 10 things to look for in a potential agent.

1. Tell me about yourself. This open-ended question opens the floor to bragging rights. What you want to hear: how long the agent’s been practicing, his best sale, how he refers to past clients, a sense of professionalism and the ability to be honest with you. Once the agent’s done boasting, ask him to send you information about his business. You’ll see how quickly he responds to your request and how professional the brochure is (which will give you an idea what your sell sheet will look like if you’re selling your home).

2. Selling skills. How many homes has the agent listed and sold in the last six months? This question will tell you where the agent’s strength lies – in helping clients buy or sell homes – and his rate of success.

3. Home sense. Does the agent excel in helping clients buy or sell homes? Do they know the starter-condo market or the 18th century, multi-million-dollar estate market? What type of homes did he last buy or sell?

4. Location, location, location. What area of the city is the agent most familiar with? You want an agent who knows the neighbourhood you’re looking to buy or sell in.

5. Organizations & affiliations. There are more than a dozen organizations and qualifications a Canadian real estate agent can hold. Find out how many your agent belongs to (since they can be a great source of networking, they can also be an indicator of the number of people your agent knows. More acquaintances can translate into a bigger turnout at your open house).

6. References. Ask for three references. This will give you key information: how quickly the agent offers up three sources, how long ago these people were clients, what type of home they were buying/selling and what their experiences were like with the agent.

7. Working hard or hardly working? Does the agent practice full-time or on the side of another job? Will he be available to show your home to potential buyers or show you homes when it’s convenient for you – or will you have to rearrange your schedule for him?

8. Competition. Find out who the agent sees as his main competition. What sets him apart? You’ll learn not only other agents to contact for comparison, but how each agent responds to this question – positively or negatively and whether the other agents are selling/showing homes in the area you’re interested in.

9. What’s the plan? Whether you’re buying or selling, your agent-to-be should have a plan (open house, public or private open house, appointments, number of viewings a day). Whether you want to look at a new home every time one is available, or save up 6 for a Saturday morning, your agent and you should be on the same planning page. If you’re not, tell him what you want or look for a different agent.

10. Money matters. How does the agent respond to your budget requirements or desired price for the home you’re selling? A good agent will understand your needs, offer his advice (he should know whether your expectations are realistic) and then support you (not telling you to say yes to the first offer if you’re not happy with it). Be wary of an agent who looks too eager to make a quick sale. A good agent will want to build a solid relationship with you, so that you call him when you want to buy or sell your next home.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Hardwood and Almost Hardwood

2006-05-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

Hardwood: Nothing beats a beautifully restored, antique hardwood floor for a traditional, elegant look. Hardwood is tremendously versatile in its decorative ability. It can look ancient and sophisticated or super-modern and cool. It all depends on two things, the type of wood and the finish. You can have a pine floor, stained to look dark and daring, or a high glossed new maple floor that will look fresh and warm at the same time. Even an old country home with bare old barn-board flooring can be refinished to look stylish and chic. The possibilities are almost limitless, if you have the resources.

One of the deterrents to putting hardwood throughout your home is the cost. Laying hardwood is a rare skill and you can expect to pay a great deal to have somebody come in and do it, not to mention the price of the material itself. On the other hand, many older homes already have beautiful hardwood floors hidden just below a wall-to-wall carpet, or one that is exposed but is looking worse-for wear. As long as your hardwood is not completely worn down to the exposed wood, you should be able to refurbish it yourself. It's a great project for the do-it-yourselfer.

If you can't afford to put in or redo hardwood floors, or if you want the look but need a surface that is slightly more durable, there are several other options that are almost hardwood, but may be a bit more practical and a lot more affordable. Here are a few:

Pergo: I'm a huge Pergo fan - it is the type of flooring that I currently have in my own home. This Swedish company makes laminate floors that look like hardwood (from a distance) but are affordable and extremely durable. Perfect for any room in your house, be it living, dining, kitchen or bathroom! You can wipe them clean easily, they are not damaged by water and they will stand up to the test of children and pets. They are even easily installed. Available in a multitude of colours and textures there is a Pergo floor perfect for any living space. Check out the super cool Pergo website for more info. You can even pick and choose colours and see how they will work with your own décor!

Hardboard is an inexpensive type of flooring, however, may not be the most durable, particularly in room where it is likely to get wet. Made from softwood pulp, it is a form of sheet board that can be laid directly over a sub floor. Use it on it's own, or as a surface below another type of flooring, such as carpet.

Chipboard is slightly more durable and thicker than hardboard and can have an attractive, warm look for a rather reasonable price. It's easily laid and comes in large sheets, but you have to be sure to seal it promptly as it will not survive spills or messes and will become badly stained.
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Ten Tips to Consider Before Buying a Home

2006-05-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

Creating a Second Suite

2006-05-01T18:23:00.001-07:00

Are you considering making a spare space in your home into an apartment? Whether the kids have all moved out, or you've thought about renting a space in your home to help with the mortgage, creating a second suite, and becoming a landlord, can have many advantages.

While the most obvious benefits are the financial ones (income can subsidize the cost of ownership, property value increases and tax deductions become available), becoming a landlord may give some a sense of pride and responsibility, help derive a greater sense of safety and perhaps even provide a social, community atmosphere.

If you're thinking about renting space in your home, there are many things to think about, and lots of work to be done. Read on to find legal and safety considerations, tips on finding great tenants, and landlord web resources.

Legal & Safety Considerations

How to Prepare

Before you place an ad in the paper, start installing a stove or get a set of keys made, you need to find out what exactly makes a secondary suite legal. Make sure you check with your local municipality for the zoning bylaws-don't wait until you've put time and energy into building a second suite to find out if you're even allowed to have one! If you've purchased a home with an existing second suite, you need to make sure it stands up to fire code requirements and planning standards. The Landlord's Self-Help Centre in Toronto (www.landlordselfhelp.com) suggests two extra steps to further reduce liability once you've legalized your second suite:

1. Make your insurance provider aware of the second suite and enhance your insurance coverage accordingly.

2. Ensure your mortgage holder is informed about your second suite.

Once the Apartment is Ready

There is only one thing you need to think about now-the legal responsibilities of being a landlord. Before you start to look for renters, you need to make sure you understand all your legal responsibilities as an acting landlord. Some of the things you'll need to know include:

· How to comply with Fair Housing Laws, and not discriminate against anyone.

· How and when to make necessary maintenance repairs.

· Once rented, when and why you are allowed to enter the suite.

· Rent increase laws and how to inform tenants of an increase.

· How to serve an eviction notice.

· What a lease/renter's agreement should look like and include.

In order to educate yourself on the legal responsibilities, you should contact your municipal government for help, as well, check your yellow phone book for any landlord or housing agencies listed under Social Services.

Tips on Choosing Tenants

First, be on the ball and be organized. It's your job to be prepared for both telephone calls and visitors. The best thing to do is to create a list of basic information (monthly rent, size, advantages such as location or new appliances), so you don't forget anything when talking to interested people over the phone. As well you should have an application form ready to fax or handout.

The law is definitely on your side when it comes to choosing tenants. There are many great services available to make sure you have sufficient information to make a decision. Credit checks are a great way to see an applicant's history and confirm his or her actual identity.

Doing a credit check is not something to be overlooked because of the fees involved-the tenants you choose could appear to be wonderful people, but when it comes down to it, you need to know more about the strangers before you let them into your home. You have the right to ask for and contact references and past landlords. You can even ask for their banking information, to obtain their history. While you can ask for income information, it is only legal to do so if you also ask for rental history, credit information and get approval for a credit check (making a decision based on income alone would be discrimination).

Don't just "go for the green" when choosing tenants. It's up to you to find trustworthy, reliable renters, but it's just as important to choose renters you get along with. Once you have applicants that have passed the tests mentioned above, there are helpful ways to decide between tenants:

· Set up a short interview, which will enable you to see what they are like, and allow for open communication between both parties.

· Make sure to ask questions about their lifestyle habits. For instance, if they play an instrument, find out if they are willing to restrict playing it to certain hours.

· Is their personality compatible with yours, and other family members that live in your household?

· Do they have pets? If you have pets, are they allergic?
Source: Sonja Rasula hgtv.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Top 10 Bidding War Basics For Buyers

2006-04-30T22:19:00.000-07:00

When you’ve found that perfect little house you'd like to call your home, the last thing you want is to have to compete with other potential buyers. But bidding wars—especially in hot real estate markets and urban centres—are more of a reality now than ever. So what do you need to know to stand the best chance at signing on the dotted “sold” line? Winning a bidding war is always a roll of the dice, but read on for the real deal on how to prepare before entering the multiple-bid realty trenches.

1. LOAN LOGIC
Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know the maximal financing available to you. By pre-qualifying for a loan, you’ll not only be aware of your offer’s ultimate ceiling, but you’ll shop around—and bid—accordingly. Speak with a broker to evaluate your options before you settle. A thumbs-up from the bank, along with agreeing to put down the biggest deposit or downpayment you can afford, can also help establish to sellers that you’re serious about buying their property.

2. KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES
You don’t have to actually keep up with the Jones family, but when it comes to the houses you’re serious about bidding on, you do need to be aware of comparative market analysis. In other words, do research to learn what the fair market value for any house you’re interested in is considered to be, as well as the fair market value of similar houses that neighbour them—www.mls.ca is a good resource to get a sense of what’s out there. When you find out what comparable houses to the ones you’re looking at are going for, you’ll know if you’re shopping way beyond your means, or well within it. Knowing the current market value a house will fetch may also help you determine what you think other bidders will offer, to in turn establish the bid you want to make.

3. PLAY CLEAN
Don’t add unusual requests, terms or conditions to your bid, like, for example, buying someone’s home on the basis that you’ll first sell yours. Additional clauses contingent upon any extenuating circumstances can cause headache to vendors, who may have another offer at the exact price you’re tendering, but one without any loopholes. Which one would you choose? By nixing the contingency plan and making a “clean” or firm offer, you stand a better chance at getting what you want.

4. INSPECT THE GOODS
Set aside a fund for pre-buy home inspections, which should cost about 1% of the house’s asking price. This is often money well spent. If it turns out that the house you think you want to buy has a roof that’s about to fall in, better to know before you bid—especially since it might make you look twice at a very similar piece of property around the corner that is going for the same asking price, but with, for example, a recently renovated roof. Consider setting up a home inspection fund in case you end up in a bunch of bidding wars on houses lost to other buyers, since you’ll also have lost your home-inspection fee.

5. DON’T GET “FLUFFED”
Fancy art, furniture that’s moving out with the homeowner and gorgeous draperies may make a formerly drab house look fab, but none of those things will be there when you buy the house. As soon as the showing’s over, the homeowner may well ship that Persian rug back to the prop rental store it was leased from. Also, the drama in the colour of the paint in the living room, dining room and bedroom might look impressive, but might not suit your furniture…at all. Just because a house may show famously, doesn’t mean it’s the right one for you. Make sure you’re not being taken in by the smoke and mirrors of objects that are not part of the home’s innate architectural charm.

6. UNEVEN STEVEN
Don’t bid $250,000 on a house whose asking price is $250,000 when you’re in a bidding war and your budget could easily permit you to extend $251,200. It may seem as though bidding an odd number would make little difference, but not only will your bid stand out from the rest, it may just beat an offer that came in at a slightly lower figure with a more common-sounding bid.

7. REVISIT KANSAS
Try to go back to see the house that seemed so magical to you on first viewing more than once—and more than a couple of times, if possible. One reason is that what strikes you as a great first impression may make a poorer second or third impression. Another reason is that more than a few sentimental homeowners have sold their house to a young family that somehow reminds them of themselves when they were starting out. Often, if you are able to meet the homeowner and they establish a connection with you, they may look upon your offer more favorably than that of another bidder—even if your competitor’s bid is higher.

8. PULL THE TRIGGER
Try to figure out the vendor’s “trigger”—what it is that would make them sell. If you know that the homeowner has a certain closing date in mind which differs slightly from yours, offer to meet their ideal terms—sometimes this is all it takes to be selected over another bidder, even if the competing offer is higher. If you can afford to, add incentives like agreeing to pay all closing costs. And if you know the sellers are not looking forward to moving their weighty piano or basement-assembled pool table because it’s expensive to move and the closing date is tight, inquire about buying it to see if that will sweeten the deal.

9. HIDE YOUR HAND
Bidding wars are a lot like gambling—the stakes are high and a lot of luck is involved. Rather than trying to figure out how much you can afford to bid without breaking the bank, try to strategically figure out the highest competing bid you’re trying to beat. If you don’t have finely honed psychic abilities, what helps is knowing the true value of the house. Let’s say you’re pre-approved for a $400,000 loan and the house you’re interested in bidding on would, according to your realtor’s estimation, be fairly priced at $350,000 as compared to other similar houses in the same ’hood. If you know that the homeowners are not accepting offers ’til Saturday, and have listed the asking price at $345,000, and then find out Saturday that there are two other offers, think about what those two other offers might be. You may be smart to bid higher than their asking price and more than fair market value but still less than $400,000.

10. KNOW RIGHT FROM WRONG
In the end, don’t get caught up in the excitement of bidding. There’s an age-old maxim: “buy the most expensive house you can afford.” This is a savvy real estate suggestion, because if you can afford a $325,000 three-bedroom home but instead settle for a $275,000 one-bedroom home thinking you’ve saved some money, you could regret it sooner than you think. Consider that if you need that extra bedroom space—like if you and your partner decide to have kids—you’ll be looking to buy a new house, sell your current living space and move house in a relatively short period of time. It’s just common sense to make the highest offer you can afford that you’re comfortable with. Every time you visit a new property ask yourself: Is this the wrong house? That’s right, the wrong house. Rather than falling blindly in love with any given dwelling, play devil’s advocate with yourself, scrutinizing how the house you’re looking at right now is any different from the one around the corner that you just looked at. In bidding wars, there’s a grave danger of overpaying if you get swept up in the auction-like fray—know when to fold ’em, walk away and run.

So before you engage in battle, arm yourself with credit pre-approval, a little research, an arsenal of financial strategies, heightened market value awareness and a great realtor. Then cross your fingers and go forth to find your own home sweet home.
Source: HGTV.ca Editorial Team

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Thank you Willy for your refferal!

2006-04-29T14:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a customer of mine called me out of the blue from his restraunt. He said, "Come right now! I have a customer for you!" Low and behold he did. My friend Willy introduced me to a great family from Burnaby who are looking for a home. They wanted to know about Abbotsford so I drove them around town, showed them the downtowne core, the University and a few housing developments. Next week I will be showing them some houses.

Thank you Willy for your refferal. It is greatly appreciated.

If anyone is looking for authentic Chinese food in Abbotsford give Willy a call at Tong Fei Chinese Restraunt 604-853-4715.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Renovation before the sale: Is it worth it?

2006-04-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to renovate your home before selling, make sure you do your research first.

Inexperience can cost you. Many homeowners gets the renovation bug and spend thousands of dollars on their aging homes only to discover that they made no profit on the work in the sale.

DIY and home renovation is an enormous market. Inspired by TV shows and magazines, it is hard not to get the bug! All the materials you need are at the hardware store, and some of them even offer free reno classes.

But if you're aiming to boost the selling price of your home by renovating it, you first need to know whether your home really will sell for more if you put the work in.

You need to do a serious market survey to compare your home with others in your area. If yous is the best home on your street, you may have already hit the top of your market and it's unlikely you'll make money on a big reno. It's unlikely a buyer will fall so in love with your house that they must have it at any price.

But with even a small budget, you can improve the look and desirability of your house. It's worth bringing in a professional painter to update your walls with subtle, neutral colour.

Another inexpensive option is to rent new furniture while your house is on the market to modernize the decor in the home.

Talk to some experts, and don't be afraid to hire help. There's more to selecting professional materials than thumbing through a catalogue. It also takes experience to know how to handle the many difficulties that can arise on a job, what tasks require specialized tools, and which products need time to cure or settle to ensure a long-lasting finish.

Your best bet is to ask your realtor and other experts for advice on setting a budget and scope for renovation before you begin.

Most buyers are looking for a bargain, and would like to put their own stamp on their new home. Why not leave them something to do?
Source: HGTV.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

Update items at eye level

2006-04-26T00:15:00.000-07:00

Information For Sellers

2006-04-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

In today's market, many homeowners have considered "going it alone" and selling their homes without the help of a REALTOR® to "save the commission." However, once they realize how complex and intimidating a real estate transaction can be, many people reconsider and enlist the services of a REALTOR®. There are more than 145 steps to complete a real estate transaction. It requires an organized, step-by-step approach that many homeowners just don't have the time, skill or experience to carry out.

A REALTOR® provides a variety of services including help in setting a listing price within current market guidelines. They develop a marketing plan, offer recommendations and advice to make your home more attractive and "saleable," and act on your behalf during negotiations to ensure your interests are protected.
Source: realtor.ca

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent Landmark Realty Corp.

The Inspiration of My Buisness Card Design

2006-04-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

I once had a green Kawasaki ZX7R which I gave up when I got married. The new and proud owner recently sent me pictures of what he had done to the bike. Very nice! The bike was the inspiration to the color of my business card design. I guess I will always have fond memories of riding it.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Home Buying Guide: Completion Costs Guide

2006-04-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

GST - If you buy a newly constructed home, you must pay the 7% GST. However, if your house is less than $450,000 you may be eligible for a rebate. For more information, please visit www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/business/topics/gst/construction/menu-e.html

Property Transfer Tax - When a residence is purchased a Property Transfer Tax (PTT) is applied. The tax is calculated at 1% on the first $200,000 and 2% on the remainder. The First-Time Home Buyers' Program offers an exemption to PTT if the fair market value of the residence is $325,000 or less, in the Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Capital Regional Districts. The threshold for the rest of BC is $265,000. In all regions there is also a proportional exemption for first-time buyers of homes with a fair market value up to $25,000 above the thresholds. This means in the Greater Vancouver area, homes valued up to $350,000 ($325,000 threshold + $25,000 proportional exemption) will be charged a pro-rated PTT. For more information please visit: www.rev.gov.bc.ca/rpt/ptt/ptt.htm

Prepaid property taxes or utility bills - You will have to reimburse the sellers for any prepaid property taxes or utilities.

Mortgage loan insurance and application fee - If you get a high-ratio mortgage (a mortgage where you pay less than a 25% down payment) you will have to buy mortgage loan insurance from CMHC or a private company. If you qualify for a 5% down payment, CMHC charges an insurance fee that equals 3.25% of the mortgage. If you put 10% or 15% down, your insurance fees will decrease to 2% and 1.75% respectively. The insurance premium usually gets added to your mortgage.

You will also have to pay an application fee. CMHC's standard fee is $235. CMHC also offers a basic service for a $75 fee but it must be accompanied by an appraisal.

Appraisal - Before your lender approves your mortgage, you may be required to have an appraisal done. Sometimes your lender covers this cost otherwise you are responsible for covering this cost. The fee ranges from $150 to $350.

Survey fee - Your lender may require an up-to-date survey of the property. If the seller did not provide you with one, you will have to pay to have one done. The fee ranges from $150 to $350.

Home Inspection fee - Most Realtors recommend that you get a home inspection by a certified home inspector. It will cost you from $150 to $350 for a smaller house. Large houses may cost more.

Legal fees - Lawyers/Notaries fees for closing the sale range according to the complexity of the deal but they will probably be at least $400.

Disbursements to Land Titles Office - These fees are approximately $300. Your lawyer/notary will arrange this payment.
Source: realtylink.org

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

When to remove mulch from perennials? Do spring perennials just push up through?

2006-04-23T17:21:00.001-07:00

No. While perennials sometimes will successfully break through a thick layer of mulch, other times damage will result. Don't take a chance with your perennial flowers! In late winter or early spring (depending on the weather) you should begin checking to see whether the ground is thawing or not. If the ground is thawing, leaving landscaping mulch on top of your perennial flowers can smother them -- it is time to remove the mulch, to let your perennials breathe. Once the perennial flowers have pushed up (so that you know where they are), you can re-apply mulch around them to suppress weeds.
Source: David Beaulieu

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Did You Know?

2006-04-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

Posted rates.

In January 2001, the posted 5 yr rate was 7.75%....today it's 6.45%.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

New Co-Manager at Landmark

2006-04-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

I met Bob Johnson today at the office. He is my new manager at Landmark Realty Corp. along with Jim McCaughan. I had a chance to sit down and talk to him for 15 minutes. What a great man. Very sincere and honest. I know I will enjoy working with him.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Hire a Professional Home Inspector

2006-04-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hiring a professional home inspector can be one of the most important things you can do to make sure your home is in good condition. An independent authorized inspector can uncover defects with the house that could cost you a lot of money down the road.

If the home inspector finds a serious problem, like the roof needing to be replaced, you'll know up front and can negotiate with the seller for the cost of the repair or replacement. If you don't find out until after you own the house, the problem (and cost) are yours alone.

When getting a home professionally inspected, you may also want to think about testing for environmental hazards like lead paint, asbestos, and radon. Again, your real estate agent can be a good reference for a home inspector.
Older Homes

Older homes can be charming, but you should be aware of special issues with them so you're not surprised once you own the home. Foundation problems, overloaded electrical systems and lead paint are not unusual in many older homes.
Source: Freddie Mac

Post by David Shieh Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Negotiate a Sales Price

2006-04-21T19:45:00.001-07:00

A Tool to Help find Your Past Schoolmates

2006-04-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered how you can get a hold of your friends from High School? Check out this website at Gradfinder.com. You just might find them.

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Post by David Shieh Abbotsford Real Estate Agent
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2006-04-21T19:44:00.001-07:00

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

New Business Card Design

2006-04-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

My wife, an awesomely gifted graphic designer, designed a new business card for me recently. I hope you everyone out there likes it.
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

How much home can you truly afford?

2006-04-21T19:43:00.001-07:00

Customer Follow Up

2006-04-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

Today my wife and I had an oppurtunity to help out a customer of ours who owns a restraunt. He wanted me to drop off some of my business cards so that he could give them away. Referals. Yay! Anyways, our friend is not so great with computers and he wanted me to print out a closed sign for him while he is on vacation. "No problem," I said. I gave him some of my business cards that my wife designed and when he saw them he was so impressed with her work that he wanted her to help him design one for him too. "No problem," she said. My wife loves to help people. Maybe that's why we are so good for each other. I love her so much.
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Upgrade your kitchen without remodeling

2006-04-21T19:42:00.002-07:00

Skill Sharpening

2006-04-21T19:42:00.001-07:00

Every Tuesday the realtors at Landmark will go on a house tour of our own listings. Around two dozen of us will pack into the Landmark bus and off we go. We usually visit around a half a dozen homes. These weekly tours keep us sharp on our evaluating skills. After every house we visit we "anomously " write on a card what we think the house is worth and give it to the listing agent. After this, he compares all the guesses and we find out who is the closest and or furthest away from the listing price.
Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

Thoughts

2006-04-21T19:42:00.000-07:00

Abbotsford is growing like crazy! Houses popping out everywhere. Who would of known that my little city can become so big! I love Abbotsford.

Posted by David Shieh- Abbotsford Real Estate Agent

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2006-04-21T19:41:00.001-07:00

2006-04-21T19:41:00.000-07:00