Mortgage rates are hovering near historic lows and for the first time in many years, the rate variance between variable and fixed mortgages is negligible. To see just how rates have changed, check this fun fact out:
In 1981, the prime rate was 22.75%! If you had a $300,000 mortgage and an amortization of 25 years, your monthly payments would've have been $5460.28
The 2011 Prime Rate was 3.00%. ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on May 15, 2012
Spring cleaning is a seasonal tradition that can give your home a boost as you gear up for summer. It is also a good time to replace the batteries and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Here are some tried-and-true items that may need your care this spring.
Organize your seasonal storage, whether it is a shed, garage, attic or basement. Display the outdoor furniture and stow away winter ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on April 12, 2012
When purchasing a home, home inspections often put the buyer's mind at ease and may allow for renegotiation. An inspection also gives buyers an opportunity to opt out of the sale if major problems are discovered. Here are some important questions that buyers should ask their home inspector.
Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on April 10, 2012
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 63% of homebuyers will drop by after viewing a home they like online. If your home isn't alluring from the outside, potential buyers may never schedule a showing to see the desirable features within it. Here are some tips to create a first impression that may lead to a sale this spring.
Under pressure - Pressure washing is budget-friendly ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on April 5, 2012
Extreme weather conditions often cause power outages, often for long stretches of time. Whether you lose power for days, due to weather, or even for just a few hours because of a faulty power line, here are some tips to be fully prepared in emergencies.
Buy emergency supplies BEFORE disaster strikes, when items are easily accessible. Purchase items such as flashlights, matches, batteries, candles, ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on March 26, 2012
It is vital for sellers to make their home attractive to potential buyers. When listing your property, consult with your REALTOR® to determine an accurate and fair price. If the local competition has a substantially lower listing price, your property will most likely remain on the market.
Curb appeal is crucial, so the facade of your home should be inviting, not alarming. Remove clutter ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on March 20, 2012
CENTURY 21 Canada has launched a fun, free online game designed to help you learn more about real estate investing.
The unique game was developed to mirror many of the situations of the real world. From deciding which mortgage to go with, or which contractors to use, to figuring out whether or not to report a suspicious neighbor - the events reflect possible situations that players may experience ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on March 5, 2012
As holiday décor is packed away and winter settles in, here are seven safety precautions to remember when heating your home.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and test the batteries monthly. Detectors should be installed generously throughout the home and secured outside every bedroom.
Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected annually by ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on February 8, 2012
You may be starting to think about renovating your home or just redecorating to spruce up your living space this year. 2012 is really focusing on the individual style and using existing pieces mixed with new to make it your unique design.
In case you are thinking about changing your home, here are some trends to look out for in 2012.
Colours
The colour trend for 2012 is to combine vibrant hues ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on January 16, 2012
Residential fires occur most in winter. Several factors contribute to the rise, including an increase in cooking and heating in addition to flammable holiday decorations. See the ten fire prevention tips below:
Maintain carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on a regular basis and test the batteries.
Skip the candles and opt for battery-operated candles instead.
Remove flammable materials from around ...
Posted by Chris Salmans
on January 5, 2012