Price

The best chance for selling your property is within the first 7 weeks. Studies show the longer a property stays on the market, the less the seller will net.

Problems with Over-Pricing

• Reduces number of potential offers
• Lowers agents response, consequently number of showings
• Limits qualified buyers and could create appraisal issues
• Competing homes become more attractive in comparison
• Wastes money and time for the seller

Cleanliness

Buyers are turned off by even the smallest amount of uncleanliness or odour, resulting in a loss of thousands to the seller.

• Make your home squeaky clean, generating a faster sale and more money as a result
• Create space by eliminating old junk and clutter. It will make an easier move for you too
• If you have pets, or a home exposed to smoke or diaper changes, extinguish all odours. Buyers will notice

Accessibility

Top-selling agents will not show your home if both the key and access are not readily available.

• Have an electronic keybox.
• Be absent during showings, including pets, allowing the buyer to feel at ease and spend more time.
• Brighten the home by keeping all lights on, drapes open.
• Keep all interior doors unlocked and accessible.
• If you have to stay home during a showing, don't offer information, let the buyer's agent do their job.

Paint and Flooring

Paint is your best improvement investment for getting the greatest return on your money. 

• Paint when there are chips, exposed wood or it looks faded.
   Paint prices from Homedepot.ca
• If the carpet is worn, dirty, outdated or an unusual colour, seriously consider replacing it. Buyers don't want to spend the time or money on improvements before they move in... they'll move on. 
  Carpet & Flooring ideas endoftheroll.ca 

Curb Appeal

Your front yard immediately reflects the inside condition of your property to the buyer.

• Trim any trees or bushes blocking visibility of your home from the street.
• Grass should be mowed, trimmed and edged.
• Walkways should be swept or shoveled.
• Remove all debris and parked cars.
• Repair any broken or damaged fencing.

Source: http://www.creb.com/Seller_Resources/Getting_Ready_to_Sell/

If you need more information or would like a market evalution on your Calgary home contact me @ 403.397.3706

The Benefits of Buying in SE Calgary - McKenzie Towne Real Estate

If you’re looking to escape the city, trading up to a larger home for your family, or desiring a home with more ‘bang for your buck’, look no further than the SE Calgary community of McKenzie Towne. The excitement that comes with being located in one of Calgary's fastest developing areas, this SE Calgary community offers great opportunities for recreation, charming streetscapes, well-designed street plans, and newly-built schools.

McKenzie Towne

This award-winning suburban development was recognized by the Urban Land Institute as one of 26 exceptionally planned communities worldwide and is designed with classic small town architecture in mind. Split into four areas (Inverness, Elgin, Prestwick, High Street) that feature the landmark old town square, the thriving downtown business sector, the extensive pathway system, and overall pedestrian-friendly design, McKenzie Towne evokes a feeling of nostalgia that’s as though you’ve stepped back in time.

When it comes to McKenzie Towne real estate, there is something for every budget and lifestyle. From single family homes, apartments, and townhouses to seniors care facilities, the community also has one separate school board elementary school and a public elementary school. With its pleasing mix of housing styles, tree-lined boulevards, paved pathways, back lane garages and wide front porches, this planned community also boasts many recreational aspects such as:

- McKenzie Towne Hall, a 15,600 sq. ft. building which houses the community's Residents' Association and offers recreational programming for young people of all ages, adults, and seniors.

- Rentals are also available to residents for the gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, and banquet facilities and a private outdoor park area.

- Ample green spaces and parks, including a skate park, community fountain, splash park in the summer time.

- The Pond at Elgin Village, a 30-acre pond with surrounding paths makes for an ideal setting for cycling, jogging, walking, rollerblading, skateboarding, bird-watching and photography.

- An outdoor hockey rink and Elgin Hill’s giant 295 feet toboggan run for winter fun.

As a trusted Calgary REALTOR®, Diane Richardson has helped hundreds of clients find the perfect home in Calgary with her industry experience and personal insight. Contact Diane with any questions you may have about buying your next home in Calgary. 403.397.3706

The Benefits of Buying in SE Calgary - McKenzie Towne Real Estate

If you’re looking to escape the city, trading up to a larger home for your family, or desiring a home with more ‘bang for your buck’, look no further than the SE Calgary community of McKenzie Towne. The excitement that comes with being located in one of Calgary's fastest developing areas, this SE Calgary community offers great opportunities for recreation, charming streetscapes, well-designed street plans, and newly-built schools.

McKenzie Towne

This award-winning suburban development was recognized by the Urban Land Institute as one of 26 exceptionally planned communities worldwide and is designed with classic small town architecture in mind. Split into four areas (Inverness, Elgin, Prestwick, High Street) that feature the landmark old town square, the thriving downtown business sector, the extensive pathway system, and overall pedestrian-friendly design, McKenzie Towne evokes a feeling of nostalgia that’s as though you’ve stepped back in time.

When it comes to McKenzie Towne real estate, there is something for every budget and lifestyle. From single family homes, apartments, and townhouses to seniors care facilities, the community also has one separate school board elementary school and a public elementary school. With its pleasing mix of housing styles, tree-lined boulevards, paved pathways, back lane garages and wide front porches, this planned community also boasts many recreational aspects such as:

- McKenzie Towne Hall, a 15,600 sq. ft. building which houses the community's Residents' Association and offers recreational programming for young people of all ages, adults, and seniors.

- Rentals are also available to residents for the gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, and banquet facilities and a private outdoor park area.

- Ample green spaces and parks, including a skate park, community fountain, splash park in the summer time.

- The Pond at Elgin Village, a 30-acre pond with surrounding paths makes for an ideal setting for cycling, jogging, walking, rollerblading, skateboarding, bird-watching and photography.

- An outdoor hockey rink and Elgin Hill’s giant 295 feet toboggan run for winter fun.

As a trusted Calgary REALTOR®, Diane Richardson has helped hundreds of clients find the perfect home in Calgary with her industry experience and personal insight. Contact Diane with any questions you may have about buying your next home in Calgary.