When you show your home to prospective buyers, there is probably a long list of things you’re hoping they’ll notice. For example, the beautiful chandelier in the foyer, or the spacious backyard and large deck, or the kitchen with the island big enough for a family to sit down for breakfast. But what about those things you’re hoping buyers will not zero in on? Every home has some ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on November 17, 2011
If you've been considering buying a house but you're still unsure, consider some of the personal and economic conditions that favor home purchases. If you find that a number of these signs ring true for you, it might be time to contact a real estate agent and start shopping.
1. You're Ready to Commit
First and foremost, if you're not ready to commit to owning a home, you should not buy a house. ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on July 8, 2011
The internet can be a wonderful tool to help find a new home, or it can be a frustrating time-waster. It all depends on how you use it. Let’s first take a look at the upside of using the Web when home shopping.
A good REALTOR® can point you to websites and specific web pages where you can:
• See pictures of homes available, including in some cases individual rooms ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on June 17, 2011
Reverse mortgages enable seniors who own their homes to tap into the home equity. These homeowners can generally access between 20 and 30% of the equity in their homes while continuing to live there. The money can be used for day-to-day expenses, home repairs, in-house care, or any other needs. In most programs, the loan and accumulated interest is not repaid until the house is sold or the homeowners ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on May 2, 2011
Ontario’s long-term care system is paralysed, and failing its most vulnerable residents. More than 600 government-funded homes are supposed to provide high quality, around-the-clock care to the frail elderly. But a Metroland Special Report shows seniors stuck on record wait lists, entangled in bureaucracy and subject to pressure tactics that jeopardize their rights .
Ontario facts and figures ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on March 7, 2011
The more you know about the best way to reach a goal, the more likely you are to get the result you want. So, whether you’re hunting for a new job, assembling a backyard BBQ, or training for a 3 mile run, you’ll want to use a proven process to help you get there.
That certainly holds true when shopping for a new home.
There is a proven process to getting the home you want, in the ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on March 4, 2011
When you’re putting your property on the market, you want to make it seem as big and comfortable as possible. Let’s face it...Buyers are attracted to space.
However, you probably have at least one room in your home — and perhaps even more — that feels small and a little cramped.
Of course you don’t want the buyer’s first impression of the room to be its ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on November 11, 2010
You are probably already aware of the major things you need to do around your home to get it ready for sale. These include getting rid of clutter, doing minor repairs, and making everything clean and tidy so every room is as much of a showcase as possible.
But there are a myriad of little touch ups you can do that you may not have thought of before… touch ups that can make a big difference ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on May 5, 2010
When you’re showing your home to a potential buyer, you obviously want to make the best impression possible. You don’t want to make a mistake, and miss out on an opportunity to sell.
So here are some of the most common home viewing blunders and how to avoid them:
1. Being inflexible with scheduling
Don’t be too strict about when you’re willing to schedule a viewing. ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on April 12, 2010
When preparing a home for sale, most people focus on making the inside look as appealing as possible. But the outside of your property deserves your attention too. After all, it’s the first thing a potential buyer sees.
You can dramatically improve the appearance of your property by giving it a “wash and haircut”!
Clean the driveway, walkways and deck or patio. A pressure washer ...
Posted by Jorge Branca
on April 12, 2010