Development of the DAY: The Elements – by Cedarglen Living

In today’s market you can’t miss out on an opportunity, so I am going to break down my favourite complex’s around the City.

Fast Facts:

Community: New Brighton

Project: The Elements

Developer: Brookfield Residential

Style: Apartments & Townhomes

Size: Range from 624 – 1,176 sq.ft

Price: Apartments: $195,000 – Townhomes: $310,000

Now lets summarize what the excitement is about:

Situated in one of Calgary’s great Southeast communities the Elements comes with a wide variety of home choices; from their apartment-style condo’s and either single or double car garage townhomes. With 2 bedroom & 2 bathroom condo’s starting under $200,000 the Elements is not only stylish but affordable.

If that isn’t enough these condo’s come standard with quartz counter tops, pull down Mosco kitchen faucet, stainless steel appliance package, and engineered laminate flooring, Oh don’t forget maple or paint grade Ivory finish cabinets, soft close drawers and a whirlpool washer dryer set to top it all off.

The buyers who are after a little more the 24 single car townhomes left out of 36 – offers 2 or 3 bedroom options with either a double master with walk in closets or 3 beds 2 full bath options on the top floors. Completed in just about 7 months the move inn ready townhomes will be ready for possession in September 2015.

Visit – http://www.3sixty5realestate.com for more information

Housing Outlook Calgary 2015

What are your thoughts regarding the year ahead?

BUY or don’t BUY – SELL or don’t SELL – That’s what I am here to discuss;

First of all lets look at the Stats from 2014 – (*Information provided by the CREB*)

Calgary resale housing market enjoyed a robust year in 2014!

Growth was fueled by several factors:

• Strong employment
• Net migration growth
• Low mortgage rates
• Tight rental market

All of these factors cumulated into 9.4% growth in sales activity.

First half of 2014 saw sales growth far exceed the growth of new listings as result that encouraged new listings.

The 2^nd half of 2014 saw new listings grow at a rate fast enough to result in inventory gains. With more inventory this pushed the market into more balanced conditions and eased the upward pressure on prices.

The average home price totaled $451,008 in 2014, a 9.85% increase from 2013.

Now that we have seen where we are let’s look at where we are going.

The economic climate will change in 2015.  Weaker economic conditions are expected to cause pullback in sales, cause inventory to rise.

Prices are expected to remain relatively stable, increasing by 1.58% this year.

The demand for houses is expected to decline by 4% due to market uncertainty and a drop in employment growth.

While sales are expected to ease in 2015, it remains consistent with long-term trends for the city.

New listings are expected to grow, however inventory levels were already low meaning a rise would help push the market towards a more balanced market.

Concerns over employment levels and the energy sectors could impact consumer confidence in the market and soften the demand and put downward pressure on prices.

Sum that all up:

Calgary’s housing market has been on a steady incline over the past few years, recovering from & exceeding all time high’s following our correction in the 2008-2009 year.

With oil prices slipping below the $50 a barrel mark for the first time in years, the economic concern for the province is uneasy hence the DOOM & GLOOM media reports following about Calgary’s housing market.

LET’s look past those reports & Look at some POSITIVES:

• Sellers will have to be more competitive when it comes to pricing their home.
• The Bank of Canada & major banks have both recently reduced their interest rates.
• Thus making it easier to Qualify for a mortgage
• With the nature of Calgary’s market we can expect some consumer uncertainty this should all help gear up Calgary’s housing market to a more stable “Balanced Market”.
• Which means more selection & more competitive pricing
• The Rental market is HOT – leading to more BUYER’s shopping instead of renting.

If you’re thinking or buying, selling or just have questions about Calgary’s always changing real estate market please contact the team at 3Sixty5 Real Estate!

http://www.3sixty5realestate.com

TOP 5 Condo Developments Calgary

Calgary’s market had a record year in 2014, don’t miss out on an opportunity to own in one of these AMAZING complex’s:

Here’s a quick list of what you can expect in each Development.

SoBow – Inglewood

Located in one of Calgary’s hottest communities SoBow is located close to all amenities, its situated minutes away from the bow river, it offers open concept plans & dynamic interior selections.

Here’s a few things to look forward to:

• BuiltGreen™ HD  certification
• Dynamic & High Quality Finishes
• Separate Air Conditioning in each Unit
• 9′ Ceilings offering open concept plans & private balconies and/or terraces
• Bathrooms offer dual-flush toilets, custom vanities & ample shelves in master en-suites.
• Looking to entertain, How about around 10′ Islands or 5′ L shaped kitchens with eating bar
• Heated underground parking or if that’s not your style how about secure bike storage

Check out more details @ http://www.sobowcondos.com/

Glas in Marda Loop

Not your typical Oversized condominium complex with only 21 Designed units Glas in Marda Loop is located between two of Calgary’s Trendy communities – South Calgary & Bankview. Walk to the shops or to work in minutes your never to far from all the electric vibes on 17th Ave what more can you ask for.

• BuiltGreen™ HD  certification
• BACHING it Glas has the option to build One bedroom units
• If that’s not for you both Two & Three bedroom units are available as well
• Boasting 9′ Ceilings, distinctive layout designs & elegant interior finishes – find the floor plan that calls your name.
•  Additional storage lockers as well as secure bike storage gives you the option to give up that pesky car payment.
• Custom built Roof top patio’s with Hot Tub hook ups
• Spa-Like En-suites boasting; luxury European style “wet room”, free standing tubs and frame less glass showers
• Cook in your CHEF’s Kitchen – offering Premium Whirlpool appliance package.

That’s just a start check out more details @ http://livingglas.com/#sthash.lHceAfhh.dpbs

6th AND Tenth – Down Town Core

This building and complex is located in the heart of Calgary’s down town core, step out of the building and be greeted by this City’s Art, entertainment, Restaurant’s, Coffee shops, Bars, & shopping. If you are a professional looking to live close to work, sick of the commute into the Core and can’t stand gas prices here’s the opportunity you were waiting for.

Let’s look at what you can expect;

• 24 Hours Concierge located in the lobby & Key fob controlled access system located at all entry points.
• Pre-Wired with all TV/TEL including Rg6 coaxial cable for all television outlets.
• Units offer 9′ ceilings & floor to ceiling windows.
• One of the most unique features is exposed concrete feature walls, pillars, & ceilings.
• Kitchen offers full Energy Star Stainless Steel appliances w/ custom designed Euro cabinetry and Islands.
• Don’t forget units available with own balcony/terrace you’ll find behind the sliding glass doors,.

Not enough….. http://6thandtenth.com/flash.php

The Verve – East Village

Looking for the perfect investment, have a look at East Village located along the bow river just north of the Saddledome soon to be one of Calgary’s hottest up and coming areas. Why not get your hands on one of the areas hot Condo’s – The Verve will sit 25 storeys high and offer 290 suites ranging from one bedroom units – the Penthouse suites.

• The Verve boast Euro-inspired kitchens complete with elegant stainless steel built-in appliances and quartz countertops
• Careful mornings in the Verve you will wake up to extraordinary views of the CIty & River seen through the maximized floor to ceiling windows… Get those blinds up.
• Completed to the nines with Dynamic & High Quality Finishes

Don’t forget you can find yourself jogging down by the River once you step out of your new Condo, but have a look for yourself. http://www.thenewcalgary.com/

The Guardian South

One of Calgary’s Largest Condo buildings situated on the Northeast side of Downtown blocks from the River, Saddledome & the local Hotspot Cowboys Casino & Dance Hall the Guardian shares all the amenities as it’s downtown competition all while offering 1350 sqft social club, garden terrace, Lions Gym, Yoga Studio, & Workshop.

This premier building should be on the Top of your Wishlist in 2015: Here’s Why!

• Designed for residents to enjoy pano views of the City Skyline, the river, mountains or heritage buildings situated around the Guardian in Victoria  Park.
• Developer encouraged by the views has offered open concept layouts with an abundance of natural light.
• If you have made it this far you will begin to see the trends, sofisticated European Kitchens, features sleek stainless steel appliances, granite or quartz counter tops with modern taps and light fixtures.
• Already under construction the Guardian as of August 27 2014 was sitting at a staggering 41 of 44 stories, completion for this killer complex is spring 2015.

Check out all this and more at http://theguardiancalgary.com/

Buying a House is a huge investment make sure to use a Team that will take care of you every step of the way. Visit www.3sixty5realestate.com for more information.

Or sit down and meet one of our agents for a coffee. www.3sixty5realestate.com/coffee

Mahogany Living – Let Me Tell You A Story About….

I’d like to take a minute just sit right there, I’ll tell you little bit about a Community called Mahogany.

Mahogany is slowly becoming one of Calgary’s most desirable South East communities.

The community of Mahogany is offering more in 5 years of its short life span than most Communities offer after full completion. Centred around Calgary’s largest freshwater lake, huge wetlands park, future schools, proximity to Seton & its accessibility to major roadways like Deerfoot & Stoney Trail it’s no surprise the red carpet entrance this community has taken on.

Lets dive into what all the hype is about.

Mahogany Lake:

We all know Calgary’s summers are short & sweet so why not enjoy it while relaxing with your feet up enjoying Mahogany’s 21 acres of water front beach area & Calgary’s record 63 acres of fresh water that can be enjoyed while paddle boarding, boating, playing beach volleyball, or swimming, plus a fishing pier, non-motorized marina, splash park, fitness equipment, sports courts, barbecue pits, hockey rink and the grand Mahogany Beach Club.

Did I forget to mention that the Lake is open year round!

Winter skating parties or a more competitive game of Hockey, or a peaceful walk on a warm autumn night – this communities entirety is based around the Mahogany Lake it is the true heart of the community and an ideal spot for friends and families to meet for and enjoy, four-season living.

Greenbelts & Parks:

Time to venture out into the community’s 265 acres of parks and open space. Mahogany’s greenbelts and paved pathways are spread throughout the community offering residents more vast options towards staying active with endless outdoor fun, developed around an philosophy of nature first the Community is one of a kind.

Wetlands:

The wetland features 74 acres of walking pathways complete with scenic naturalized wetlands, and is a destination for residents to stroll, bike or run in a natural tranquil setting. Already species of birds and small animals have been spotted by the residents of Mahogany, making the Wetlands an ideal location for peace and serenity with nature.

Urban Village:

What a better way to describe Mahogany’s Urban Village than describing it as the home of your own Red Mile. Completed with an assortment of cafés, shops, casual restaurants and professional services. Consider it the command centre for the community all your amenities in one close convenient location.

South Campus:

With a 24-hour emergency department offering specialized pediatric expertise, an intensive care unit and day surgery units, the South Health Campus provides complete acute care for the whole family. Specialized clinics and a comprehensive range of wellness programs, including a YMCA Wellness Centre.

Visit the South Health Campus to learn more about Alberta’s largest and most advanced healthcare centre

“You Can’t Go Wrong listen to the Prince.”

Make the Ultimate ODR: Here’s 5 Tips

TOP 5 tips for the perfect Backyard skating Rink

Canada & hockey is one it self. So why not accept the cold weather and make the best of what winter has to offer, build your own rink?

Here are 5 tips  to help you create the perfect ice for a game of shinny.

#1 – UPGRADE TO A QUALITY PLASTIC LINER

Invest in an Ultra-White liner, the key is to keep the ice a cold as possible & to keep the UV rays from the ice.

#2 – PURCHASE A GOOD WINTER HOSE

Choose one that can withstand the cold no one likes a leak & , with that in mind still store your hose inside to ensure it doesn’t freeze.

#3 – PREPARE WITH THE PROPER OUTDOOR GEAR

Make sure you have a good set of winter boots, winter jacket, mits, touque and any other items to cover your bear skin. You want to be able to endure the cold.

#4 – WATCH THE WEATHER FOR THE PERFECT TEMPERATURE

Although -15 C isn’t ideal for most anyone looking to build that perfect rink it’s the ideal temperature. @ – 15 c get out and flood your rink Snow or shine/ day or night!

#5 – BE PATIENT

You will need to flood the rink a couple times, the perfect rink won’t happen over night. Also don’t hesitate to resurface the ice this will make for the best playing surface.

***Now get out there do us proud***

Real Estate 101: Winterizing your home.

HERE’S 5 EASY STEPS YOU CAN DO TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER

These easy steps will help make your home more energy efficient, plus save you money over the chilly winter months.

Winter is HERE and we are now experiencing our first taste of the fridge cold, relentless winds and endless snowfall. This time of year is when we experience hikes on our utility bills fortunately, by taking a few simple steps you can be sure that your home will run greener and pocket books fuller.

Mind the GAPS & Seal up those hidden leaks. 

The most common area’s for heat loss is around our windows, and doors upwards of 40% of heat loss is through air leakage. One of the simplest ways to retain heat the heat & eliminate the air flow is to by installing proper weather-stripping and caulking around the house.

An easy way to find hidden drafts around the home is to hold a lit stick of incense around baseboards, light fixtures and electrical outlets – a strong leak will make the stick glow brighter and blow the smoke away, while smaller leaks will puff the smoke in a distinct direction.

What kind of Thermostat does your house have?

Most people don’t understand how wasteful the use of an none programmable thermostat can be, when your house is empty why keep the furnace running when there is know one home to enjoy it? To help keep your cost down and your wallet flush.

With the technology today we are able to do everything on our smart devices or WIFI networks, temperature controls can be added to this list. We have noted how highly recommended the use of a programmable thermostat can be when you are asleep or away at work, with a few simple steps you can have your furnace programmed to lower the heat automatically in your absence and to have it reprogrammed so that when you arrive back at home or wake up the heat is back to comfortable levels.

Add insulation – BUT BE CAREFUL in YOUR ATTIC
Before going into to much detail, when entering your ATTIC be extremely careful, ensure you locate the joist to ensure you don’t damage the roof below OR injure yourself by falling through the roof.

Increasing the thickness of insulation in your attic & crawl spaces can help save upwards of 25% of your heat loss in one simple step. If you enter your attic and find that your insulation measures less than 20 centimeters of fiberglass or rock wool, or 15 centimeters of cellulose, it would be in your best interest to invest in additional insulation.

If you do not feel that purchasing or upgrading your insulation than you are in luck here’s some easy and Eco-friendly alternatives; Eco-friendly cotton, recycled newsprint or soybean oil based products.

Your home has GUTS & it needs up keep in the WINTER. 

 

Head down to your basement it’s time check your furnace, and water heater to ensure both are running accordingly. A simple call to a professional for seasonal clean and inspection each fall, will help your furnace burn cleaner, last longer and work more efficiently.

A few other tips to make sure everything is running smoothly are:

• Wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket and insulate exposed hot water pipes.
• Change your filter every two months in the winter.

ELIMINATE your RISK of DAMAGE & LEAKS 
Help melting snow and ice to flow freely, and prevent ice dams that can cause water damage to your home’s roof and walls be sure every fall to clean up & remove any leaves, branch, nest and debris to the gutters and down spouts.

 

At the same time of your fall clean up, its a good time to head inside and shut off any exterior waterlines be closing the water valves & blowing out or bleeding the lines. Take this necessary step will make sure that no excess water leftover in the pipes will freeze or expand during the winter months causing cracked pipes, water damages & major repairs in side your home.

 

 

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Real Estate 101: Not so glamorous part of being a Realtor

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WHAT THE PUBLIC THINKS IT MEANS TO BE A REALTOR:

 

In the public’s eyes the everyday people living in the YYC believe that being a REALTOR is an easy job. As a REALTOR I hear this constantly from potential clients, friends or just people I run into on a day to day basis. The largest hurdle to overcome as a REALTOR is Commission or How much “THEY” as a collective make. Our clients now come to us with the common knowledge & experience of selling or buying their home and are typically very opinionated to how hard their REALTOR worked for the sale.

 

Here’s a few examples that I am sure you’ve heard before.

 

– My house sold in 24-48 hours, all my REALTOR did was put the home on the internet, take photos of the home & wait for the offer to come.

 

– Every time I tried contacting my REALTOR his phone went to voice-mail or he was away on Vacation. Must be nice to be a REALTOR, work from home, no boss, & constantly on Vacation.

 

HERE IS THE BEHIND THE SCENE LOOK @ WHAT A TRUE PROFESSIONAL DOES TO GET YOUR HOME SOLD:

 

An average day of a REALTOR typically starts off like most office jobs answering emails, replying to phone calls and setting up a work schedule for the days ahead. What to think about there is where were you last night? Probably sitting on the couch watching your favorite TV show or reading your favorite book, or having dinner with your family. NOW where was your REALTOR? They were out showing properties to potential buyers for your home, while juggling phone calls, text message and emails from those clients looking for feedback & setting up additional showings for the upcoming days all while answering the most asked question in Real estate WHY hasn’t my house sold & what do we NEED to do to generate an offer.

 

Not quite the relaxing evenings that most get to enjoy.

 

BUT behind the point that’s what we have signed up for when becoming a REALTOR.

 

Just like in everyday life it’s the small stuff that gets over looked. During the day time hours when our clients are at work comes the time when a REALTOR shows his TRUE value and the hidden task is taken to help with the sale. Here’s a few things to think about.

 

1. When your house is Vacant whether that be because the client has moved on, or the client is away on vacation even an investment property with no tenants living in the home this is when a truly professional REALTOR will take the necessary steps to ensure your house sells. For Example:

 

During the Summer & Winter month to give your home the greatest possibility to sell the up keep of the home like; making sure the snow is shovelled  or grass is cut is taken care of is something that must be taken care of the curb appeal is the first thing your buyer sees and judges.

 

For tips on how to winterized your home & steps to take when your home is vacant visit

www.3sixty5realestate.com

 

2. When your REALTOR comes to their first visit to your property it’s our job to point out what necessary steps should be taken prior to listing the home to ensure the buyer experience the WOW factor. Cleaning and minor repairs are easy fixes that most people “can’t find the time to complete” nor do they feel like spending the money on a cleaning or contracting service to complete.

 

Enter your REALTOR – Shows up to the home to complete the final marketing steps that were discussed during your meeting, notice that the suggestions that were made to client to complete are still unfinished. – Time to see your REALTOR scrubbing the floors, putting dirty dish into the washer, making beds, putting laundry away and wiping counters all completed – the same applies to the repairs always be prepared hammer, nails, screws and paint supply’s – roll your sleeves up and get your hands dirty the paint touch ups, baseboard install, tighten loose items and much much more.

For simple tips on how to maintain your home visit – http://2020mhi.com

 

All completed to give the listed property the greatest chance to sell.

 

3. One of the most important items to be completed prior to moving as a seller you MUST have an up to date Real Property Report w/ City of Calgary compliance. This is the aerial survey of the property that the City uses to ensure you are following the City bylaws.

As a seller most people do not have this step completed, so to ensure no delays at the time of closing the steps towards completion are taken:

1. Higher a reputable survey company to complete survey.
2. Once survey is complete time to head town to City municipal building between 8 am – 4 pm to apply for the Compliance and any Relaxation, building permits or Encroachment agreements that may be required. Client: ” I don’t have a day that can be taken off to complete all this work” once again enter your REALTOR.
3. Review the RPR to ensure the compliance has been completed & deliver to client/client lawyer for closing.

The point of this BLOG isn’t for my future readers to think I am bringing down other REALTOR’s nor am I using this to show my sellers that my value is greater than the average JOE. I am bring this info to you to help open the people of the YYC what to expect & what they can expect from the 3 sixty 5 Real Estate team.

 

Tell us WHAT you think your REALTOR should be bring to the table? Or tell us your experience of what could have been done better during your listing experience?