Selling in a Buyer’s Market
Sunday, April 12th, 2015Find out more!
Website: www.TheHowardTeam.net
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Archive for the ‘Calgary Market’ Category
Creating the Right Strategy for a Quick Sale
Sunday, April 5th, 2015
What do buyers really want? Achieving a quick and stress-free sale requires a unique strategy for each home. The Calgary real estate market is in a much different place than it was last spring, but that doesn’t mean you should put your real estate goals on hold. These four smart tips will help your property stand out and appeal to the right kind of buyers:
Know how your property compares to the competition. It’s important to understand what buyers are looking for. Check out some of the listings nearby, and work with your Realtor for an honest evaluation on how your home stacks up. Does your home have certain features such as a larger yard or updated finishes that others might be lacking? Be sure to showcase the details that make your property stand out from the rest.
Take the time to make a great impression. Getting your home prepared for the market is hard work, but it will be well worth the effort. Whether it’s a professional staging or deep cleaning, give your place the TLC it needs to look its best. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are a lot of competent people just a phone call away.
Price it right. Price is the number one driving factor for a quick sale. Particularly in a challenging market, it’s important to fine-tune your strategy. Buyers are highly educated, so they won’t be willing to pay more than the market value in today’s economy. Take a look at recent sales in the area, and determine an asking price that will motivate buyers to check out your listing as soon as it hits the market.
Anticipate deal breakers before they happen. Ordering a home inspection ahead of time is a great way to avoid potential problems during the sale process. This will give you the opportunity to fix any problems with the home or detect some of the bigger issues that might scare buyers away. Some buyers try to use the details of a home inspection as a bargaining tool, which is why the home should be presented with no surprises. This will help you finalize the negotiations on the spot.
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
What to Expect During This Year’s Spring Market
Sunday, March 22nd, 2015
There is no doubt that this year is much different than the last. As we head into the spring market, many home owners are wondering how the recent changes in Calgary’s economy will affect their real estate decisions. Here are a few things worth noting:
Homes may take a little longer to sell. According to CREB, homes are taking an average of 38 days to sell. This is longer compared to the 33 days last year during the same period. Consequently, the number of sales transactions has dropped significantly. This means that buyers would rather wait on the sidelines for a better deal to come along if they are skeptical of the value.
Values have dipped slightly, but there hasn’t been a dramatic drop. Does a challenging economy impact our real estate values? To a certain degree, yes, but it would seem that the headlines have a more significant effect on consumer behaviour. In fact, a recent article in the Calgary Herald explained that our city has actually been through a similar slump five different times in the last thirty years. Home values were only slightly affected in each case and always managed to bounce back eventually.
Buyers are out there; they are simply exercising caution. Have consumers lost interest in Calgary’s real estate? Are buyers unwilling to trade up to their next home? The truth is, buyers are still active in the market. Some are just holding off on making a purchase in case prices drop, while others are simply hoping for a little more clarity on what the future holds.
Buyers have far more to choose from this year. If you were house hunting last year, one thing was for certain – there was very little to choose from. Today’s market is quite the opposite. Inventory is plentiful, and there is less competition. If you are selling your home, but aren’t desperate, price it well and don’t feel pressured to sign the first offer that comes your way. Remember, this isn’t the first time Calgary has weathered a tough economy. Despite everything, this city remains a highly desirable place to live and own a home in.
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
Buying in a Buyer’s Market
Monday, March 16th, 2015
Advantages of being in a buyer’s market.
Find out more!
Website: www.TheHowardTeam.net
Facebook: Calgary Real Estate by The Howard Team
Twitter: @Calgary_Life
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bryonhoward
Choosing the Right Calgary Home
Sunday, March 8th, 2015
Ready to buy a home? Choosing the perfect place to live in requires a little bit of work up front, but laying the groundwork for a smart buying decision will help you make a purchase with confidence. Here are four tips to get your property search started in the right direction:
Meet with a mortgage professional. Discussing your financing options is the best way to start. Banks and mortgage lenders have very specific guidelines in place. Knowing exactly where you stand will help you avoid disappointment down the road and help you establish realistic expectations before you even start to look at homes. If you aren’t approved right away, don’t worry. Your mortgage professional will give you all the information you need to improve your application and let you know exactly how long it will take before you are in good standing.
Determine your budget. Knowing how much you are allowed to spend is the first step, and deciding how much you are comfortable spending each month on housing costs is the most important . Based on today’s mortgage rates, determine a price range that works for you. Keep in mind the additional costs for property tax, condo fees, maintenance, and all other expenses.
Assess your needs. Are you looking for a place to occupy for the next 3-5 years, or are you shopping for a home that you can grow into? Do you love to entertain or need some extra space for a home office? Each buyer has his own unique list of must-haves. Decide on the things that really matter to you, yet leave some room for compromise. Sometimes, it takes a little while for the right home to come on the market, but once it does, it’s always worth the wait.
Choose the right neighbourhood. The location of your new home is one of the most important considerations. Your neighbourhood and the surrounding community should complement your lifestyle. Try to choose an area within a convenient proximity to work, even if you need to spend a little more. You can change almost anything in a home, but the neighbourhood is something that you must accept as is.
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
Moving Forward and Being Your Best
Sunday, January 4th, 2015
Regardless of your profession, personal growth and a desire to continuously improve are the foundations of long-term success. “Good enough” just won’t cut it when you are fuelled by goals and aspirations. The real estate industry is a fiercely competitive business, so our clients and competitors always keep us on our toes. After all, no job is worth doing unless you are doing your best.
We draw plenty of inspiration from our peers in the business. We recognize the success of others and take note of the things they have done that made a difference. Real estate is very much a business built on relationships. Our relationships with our clients, peers, and other professionals help us build our experience and continue to deliver the kind of exceptional service that our network has come to expect.
Success also goes beyond your professional development. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating well, and making sure your health is a priority is essential to keep you going at your full potential. In our busy lives, it is important to make time for family and friends. Especially as the holiday season approaches, we become more aware of the significance of our role in others’ lives and their importance in our own.
Having a creative outlet can also serve as a wonderful stress reliever and break from the motions of your typical work day. In my case, I immerse myself in music. I play the cello and I always look forward to rehearsing and performing with my ensembles on a regular basis. Music is so uplifting, and speaks to the spirit.
Many highly successful professionals credit their motivation to reading. Unwinding with a great book after a busy day or taking some time to read an inspiring message while you enjoy your morning coffee might be all you need to keep your mind focused. Success might mean something different to everyone, but nothing beats the satisfying feeling of accomplishment. What drives you to do better? What keeps you focused on your goals and pushes you to be your best self?
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Shirley Wright
Like everyone, I have been involved in real estate my entire life! Like you, I grew up in a home! My husband and I purchased our first home in 1998, and since 2001 I have been assisting my husband, Bryon Howard, in our real estate investments and his work as a Top Producing Sales Professional. I assist sellers and buyers meet their goals, efficiently and have fun doing it.
To serve you better, I network daily with top producing REALTORS in various markets across North America, keeping abreast of the many and varied trends and cycles of real estate.
I look forward to serving you to help you find what you want in our exciting city. Please take some time searching my website http://www.GreetingsCalgary.com. Many of my clients have advised that the search engine incorporated here is very user friendly.
September 2014 Calgary Real Estate Market Report
Thursday, October 2nd, 2014
Calgary’s condo sectors continue to set the pace for the city’s residential resale housing market, which recorded 2,148 sales in September, nearly 12 per cent higher than the same period last year. “September’s sales growth was stronger than expected, due largely to a surge in condominium apartment and townhouse sales,” said CREB® chief economist Ann-Marie Lurie, who credits Calgary’s strong economy and fewer options in the lower-priced single-family market behind the continued demand.
For the fifth consecutive month, year-over-year condominium apartment sales growth outpaced growth in the single-family sector. Year-to-date condominium apartment sales totaled 3,819, a 21 per cent increase over last year. This compares with a seven per cent increase to 13,842 units in the single-family market over the same time frame. Added supply in the condominium apartment sector, meanwhile, is providing more choices. New listings increased by 48 per cent in September over last year and nearly five per cent over last month, further improving inventory levels and pushing this market into balanced territory.
In the condominium townhouse market, sales and listings continued its year-to date trend, rising 20 and 21 per cent, respectively, compared to the same period a year ago. Over the first three quarters, 3,002 units have exchanged hands, relative to the 4,011 new listings. Despite an increase in new listings, the condominium townhouse market continues to be relatively tight, with absorption rates remaining below two months.
“While overall supply levels have improved, the condominium townhouse sector continues to reflect the tightest market conditions in Calgary,” said CREB® president Bill Kirk. New listings in the single-family market similarly increased in September, helping to improve inventory levels above two months. A total of 2,148 units entered the market during the month, a jump of nearly nine per cent compared to the same period last year.
“While conditions are now more balanced, the composition of the single-family market has changed,” said Lurie. “One-quarter of year-to-date sales in the sector has been for product priced below $400,000. Last year, it represented 35 per cent of the market share. Two years ago, it accounted for 44 per cent of all single-family sales.”
The single-family benchmark price topped $512,800 in September, similar to August, but a 10.6 per cent increase year-over-year. Condominium apartment and townhouse benchmark prices grew to a respective $298,800 and $330,200, reflecting gains of more than 9.5 per cent relative to last year.
“Calgary’s housing market throughout the spring favoured the seller, resulting in higher-than-expected price gains,” said Kirk. “Now, a more balanced market is relaxing some of that upward pressure on home prices, and prices are leveling off relative to the previous month. Year-over-year, however, gains are still in the double-digit range.”
Recent price gains have encouraged listings growth and, ultimately, supply in all sectors, said Lurie. “However, citywide inventory levels continue to remain below historical norms, and current demand levels continue to point toward healthy absorption rates,” she said.
Download the full market report here
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
How is getting a mortgage for a second home different than getting a mortgage for my first home?
Monday, September 29th, 2014
As part of my customer service to my sellers, we ask that our buyers are pre-qualified. We have made it easy for you to get pre-qualified by visiting https://www.mlenow.ca to get step #1 of our process started. In less than 3 clicks you will be on your way to pre-qualifying yourself … and will be closer to your new home!
I would consider it an honor and a privilege to work together with you to achieve your real estate goals! Please feel free to contact me on my cell at 403-589-0004, or visit my Web site at http://www.TheHowardTeam.net for more information.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LivingInAltadore
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Calgary_Realtor/
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Small Town Living in the Big City
Sunday, September 28th, 2014
Calgary is a big city made up of dozens of individual vibrant communities. Even though Calgarians enjoy the benefits of everything that a major city can offer, many people live in the suburbs and enjoy a tight knit community within their own neighbourhood.
Establishing self-contained communities in one of the many important initiatives that has become a priority to manage Calgary’s rapid growth. As the neighbourhoods around the city expand, it is important from a strategic planning perspective that the residents have access to all of their essential amenities close to home. City planners want to make sure that people can live, go to school and access essential services within a close proximity to home.
If you live within one of these communities, there is no better opportunity to meet your neighbours than participating in one of the local events. The Community of Huntington Hills has a enough sports and recreation to keep even the most active family on the go. Figure skating, minor hockey, slo-pitch and lacross are just a few of the sports that are available for a variety of age groups. There are also plans in place to build an outdoor skate park at 64th Ave and Centre St. N.W..
The community lifestyle is appealing for families because it gives them a sense of security. They have more opportunities to get to know their neighbours then they would in a traditional urban setting. They are more likely to be actively involved in their kids’ school and everyone is always looking out for each other.
Living in a tightknit community is also appealing for seniors. The organized events provide many opportunities to socialize and they can volunteer at local events if they are looking to get involved with their community. The Woodland Creek Community Association offers a bridge club, knitting group, and a senior’s social night every month. Making friends close by is helpful for whenever they need an extra hand.
The best way to enjoy the community where you live is to become involved with it. Whether your neighbourhood has an organized board or not, you will always be able to find like-minded people who take an interest in their surroundings and want to collaborate to make it better.
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
Growing Up Fast – How Calgary Is Keeping Up With Its Increasing Population
Tuesday, September 2nd, 2014
If you thought Calgary already felt like a big city, stay tuned for what the future holds. Over the next 50-60 years, analysts are predicting that the population of Calgary will double. In a city that already accommodates 1.15 million residents, this is an enormous growth projection over a relatively short period of time. In the next five years alone, an estimated 100,000 people will move into Calgary.
So how will Calgary handle its rapid growth, and still maintain all the desirable qualities that make this city such a popular destination? According to the Municipal Development Plan, we can expect to see a progressive expansion of the suburban areas that surround the downtown core. Proper planning and infrastructure development is crucial in a growing city. Building desirable housing on the outskirts of the city will prevent congestion and alleviate strain on the current infrastructure. By the year 2069, city planners expect that at least 50% of the residents in Calgary will live in outlying suburban areas.
Improving the transit system has also been a priority for the city of Calgary, and the benefits are already being enjoyed by the people who live here. Creating convenient and affordable transportation options is the only way to convince people to park their cars, reduce emissions, and turn to public transit as a convenient way to travel to and from work. The CTrain now services 44 stations that stretch as far north as Crowfoot and Saddletown, and as far south as Somerset-Bridlewood.
Like many other growing cities in Canada, affordable housing is an important issue. If you were born and raised in Calgary, there is no doubt that you have noticed house prices increasing steadily. Even the flooding couldn’t dampen the appeal of our local market. However, compared to all major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Calgary is still considered to be an affordable city to own a home. House prices are much lower, and on average, household incomes are higher. Calgary is a fantastic place to live, work, and raise a family. As long as the city can continue to keep up with the growing population, the future of Calgary is bright.
Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.
About Bryon Howard
Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.
