WINTER GETAWAY

Every year (meaning this year and last year) *smile* my husband Tim and I have a tradition...we go away before Christmas. To choose where we go the conversation usually goes a little like this “where is it most likely snowing right now?”

Last year the location of choice was a cute little town Leavenworth, Washington where we were greeted with SNOW and lots of it! It was beautiful. The streets were all lit up and Christmas music was playing in the streets. We went for breakfasts at a cute little crepe café and for a sleigh ride at a local farm.

(Obviously. We always have to throw in a little “farm” wherever we go)

We did some exploring and found some BEAUTIFUL spots.

Tim visited the candy store. (He’s a 5 year old in a 26 year old body)

And we visited some of the gift shops. We found some hilarious ornaments and just HAD to show you *grin*. You can’t tell me this isn’t the best ornament you’ve ever seen right?

This year we booked a last minute trip up to beautiful Whistler BC. The thought of a long journey was not appealing as we just moved a couple days before plus a couple of my clients were up there the previous week and said there was lots of snow.

As you know this is the pre-requisite. So we booked it! We picked up a good ol’ ginger bread latte and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. When we arrived in whistler however we were greeted with the view of the pavement. That’s right….. NO SNOW. We had a little pitty party for about 1 min but we didn’t let this ruin the mood. We cranked Mariah Carey Christmas and a little Michael Buble and sat in front of the fire for the last 3 days.

Ahhhh…. So good.

Do you have any favourite places to visit during the holiday season?

My Christmas Tradition

It's that time again! 

    Every year I have a tone of fun putting together my "christmas card" to you. It seems to have become one of my christmas traditions and I received a few emails through out the last month wondering if it was going to arrive. With my husband Tim and I moving a week ago things came together a little later this year. But it's here! I just got out of the studio. 

 

   My inspiration? Well.... it doesn't seem to look like we're going to get a white christmas this year BUT that doesn't mean we still can't DREAM for one so.........   sit back, relax, and be sure to get your whistle ready! Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and an incredible 2012! I look forward to serving you, your friends, and family in the coming year.

For your singing "christmas card" go to: www.purevolume.com/Lacey and click on "White Christmas" 

Lacey Forward

604-910-LACE (5223)

www.homeswithlacey.com 

Santa's Coming Early This Year!

It's that time of year again and who doesn't like presents?

With that in mind I have created just the opportunity for you! Through the months of December and January, if you refer someone to me who's interested in buying or selling anytime in the New Year (2012) than you will receive a... $350 gift card for the store of your choice when they move into their new home.(Home Depot - Costco - Future Shop - or Harrison Hot springs Resort)

Now you may be wondering, “So what exactly do I have to do?”

While you’re out and about over the next few months with co workers, friends and family, be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for anyone who is considering moving in the near future.

All you need to do is have your friends or family call me and mention your name. Or the best way is to call or send me their name and number and I'm happy to contact them. You can reach me at lacey@homeswithlacey.com or 604-910-LACE(5223).

EVERY successful referral receives this gift from me and there is NO limit on how many referrals you can give. You can even refer yourself if you like! Perhaps this gift could pay for that power tool you’ve had your eye on, or you can take you're loved one to Harrison? The choice is yours!

This promotion only runs until January 31, 2012.

Also! Be sure to check out and LIKE the new facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homes-with-Lacey/243464939023796.
You'll find mortgage rate updates, current and time sensitive information on the market and a little bit about me personally may sneak onto the page every once in a while.


All the best this Christmas Season. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Lacey

PS: My current business has been built up to approx 80% referral based. This is because of the many people who have entrusted me with the care of their friends and family over the years. I look forward to meeting your friends and family and offering the same high level of service to them. Thank you for your support.

Happy Monday!

So.... The realtor association that I'm associated with has made this great commercial and I can't not share it with all of you. NOW... this is an extreem example of how a realtor helps however you never know who your next client may be and what they will need.
Take a peek :)

http://www.howrealtorshelp.ca/#video-old-woman-documentary - Click here

Enjoy your week.
Make it a GREAT one.

Lacey
604-910-LACE (5223)

Townhouse Anyone?

Hello everyone! As promised I am continuing my TRIBUTE TO THE RENTER. Last week we discussed and outlined the cost to purchase a Condo and this week I will be highlighting the purchase details of a Townhouse.  Read below!

TOWNHOUSE PURCHASE 

Purchase Price - $325,000 (3 bedroom Townhouse)
Min 5% Down Payment - $16,250
Mortgage with Insurance Premium - $317,858

Mortgage Rate-  3.79% (there are lower rates out there but I'm being conservative)
Amortization - (length to pay off the loan)  30 Years
PAYMENT: $1474 Month

So once again I ask the question..... WHY ARE YOU RENTING?
Consider purchasing a condo or townhome and Own for a similar price if not less than renting!
If your single considering renting out one of the rooms to a room mate for $500 month. This is what I did for 4 years before I got married and it worked great.

The average property goes up 6-8% a year and sometimes more. So why not consider paying yourself the rent instead of the landlord!? 

But Lacey, I don't have enough for a down payment. That's okay! Ask me about our Partnership program that we offer a few select clients per year.

Call 604-910-LACE (5223) with your questions. 
It's worth at least a phone call :) 

LACEY

{{A Tribute to the Renter}}

This email is dedicated to all you renters out there!

I'm currently in the process of working with a few first time home buyers educating them about the market, how to prepare and what is required to purchase a new home.

In the process I thought that you renters out there may be interested to see that it's the same price IF NOT LESS to own your own home instead than it is to pay rent!
Take a look at the two scenarios that I have put together for a purchase of a condo that is under five years old. I've also included a picture of a live example.  Over the next couple weeks I will also include scenarios for a town home purchase as well a a house so stay tuned!

This could be your home!

SCENERIO #1 - Condo

$150,000 Purchase
5% down payment $7500
(you would need this amount or consider a partnership with Westridge Realty) see http://homeswithlacey.com/we-finance.html
CMHC insurance fee - $4204
Total Mortgage - $146,704
Mortgage payment: $560
property taxes: $65
Condo fees: $132
Utilities: $30

TOTAL MONTHLY PAYMENT :  $787
INCOME REQUIRED: $27,000
That's approx $14 an hour!!!


SCENERIO #2 - Condo

$200,000 Purchase
5% downpayment - $10,000
CMHC insurance - $5605

Mortgage Payment- $747
Property Taxes - $65
Condo Fees - $132
Utilities - $30

Total Monthly Payment - $974
Total Income Required - $34,000

THAT'S approx $18 an hour!!!

Consider getting a room mate and charge them $400 to $500 per month with this scenario and then it only costs you approx $500 to own!


On average the Real Estate Market increases about 6 - 8 % a year and sometimes more! Interest rates are at all time lows plus it's a great market currently for you first time buyers with ample product to choose from.

If you are finding it hard to save up for a downpayment call me today and allow me tell you about our partnerships that we offer a few select clients per year.

So what are you waiting for?

Call me today and let's set up a plan tailored to your needs.  Whether you're looking to buy now or down the road, It's never too early or late to start the process!
I look forward to hearing from you.

LACEY
604-910- LACE (5223)

{{The HST and your Real Estate: Are You Affected?}}

Shortly residents of B.C. will have the opportunity to vote on this question regarding the HST tax.

Are you in favour of extinguishing the HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) and reinstating the PST (Provincial Sales Tax) in conjunction with the GST (Goods and Services Tax)? Yes or No?

* The first point to note is the format of the question.
* If you vote YES – then you do not want the tax.
* If you vote NO – then you agree with the tax and its proposed changes.

Now that the question you will be voting on is clear, I would like to bring forward some of my views on the impact this tax has on the real estate market and the economy of B.C.

Prior to the tax coming into effect on July 1, 2010 most transactions relating to real estate were not taxable at the provincial sales tax level. Many believe that is still the case until you take a closer look. Even if you are not buying or selling a property, you are still affected by this tax if you own property.


IF YOU OWN YOUR HOME:
Only three examples from a long list:
 When you own your home, you want to keep it in good condition. Prior to HST many trades people that may work on your home did not charge PST on the labour portion of their work. With HST you are now charged this tax. This has added 7% to your maintenance costs.

You wish to do a refinancing to buy another property, reduce your interest cost or debt consolidation. Your legal fees, the land appraisal, and other associated services are now charged an additional 7% tax. This amounts to a few hundred dollars in many cases.

Many building supplies that were excluded from PST such as energy efficient products or agricultural products are now charged an additional 7% tax. You wish to upgrade the insulation in your home for example; you are now charged an additional 7% tax to be energy efficient. That seems pretty smart?



YOU WISH TO PURCHASE A PROPERTY OR SELL YOUR EXISTING PROPERTY:
Prior to July 1, 2010 most services related to this were not subject to the PST. The GST is another topic, but we do not have the opportunity to vote on this tax. How are you affected?

Most transactions require the services of a lawyer or notary. You are charged HST on their services.

Most transactions require a land appraisal. You are charged HST on this.

Most transactions engage the services of a Real Estate Agent; you are charged HST on this.

You use the services of a mover or rent a truck to move. You pay HST

Another point to consider is that most moves involve two transactions – You sell so you can buy. The HST then has double the impact.


YOU WISH TO PURCHASE A NEW HOME – or a building lot to build your dream home:
This particular real estate transaction has the greatest cloud of confusion hanging over it! Most buyers and most realtors do not fully understand this particular unique transaction.

One of the largest contributors to the B.C. economy is the new housing business. Everything from trades people, the lumber yards, the furniture stores to the garden shop are dependent on the new home market. Add to this the fact, that if the supply of new homes is reduced then the supply of used homes is also reduced. This has the net effect of supply and demand driving housing prices up.

Further to this, the market has a supply of new homes available for sale by good builders that, in many cases, are being offered at prices equal to or below the prices of similar used houses. Why are purchasers not buying new houses? Why are some buyers paying more for a used house than a new house? They are confused in many cases about the impact of the HST. If confused stay with what you know, buy used even if you pay more!

If you didn’t know that new is less than used – call me and I will show you proof. Prior to July 1, 2010 land was not subject to the PST tax. This is no longer the case.

Before I add to the confusion however, you do get some tax breaks. A system of tax credits or refunds up to a maximum of $26,250 to be applied to your tax bill is available. This helps soften the tax blow to some degree. You do not pay the full tax at the full rate on a New Home to be clear, but you do pay some tax depending on the value of the new home. [subject to some conditions] See what I mean about confusion!

Now for a simple overview of the impact that the HST has on the New Housing Industry:
* Prior to HST the land component {about 50% of a new home cost} was exempt from taxes. Not now.
* Prior to HST about 50% of the cost of the home construction was exempt from taxes.

* About 50% of a homes cost is labour or materials such as insulation and energy efficient items that are totally tax exempt. This is not the case with HST.

* Include the services that a purchaser of a home will need, as with any home purchase


New or Used Are Also Taxable:
With new housing starts down, mainly due to the “confusion” and the production of building lots down, do you suppose this is affecting our economy? One reason we are seeing such high housing inflation in some pockets of the Fraser Valley is due to the reduced supply of New Homes. Further to this a huge employer is the new home industry. Watch the unemployment rates fall, as the housing/construction sector becomes more robust.

Does the HST affect new homes? You bet! Check out the government's own web site for an example of the increased taxes on a new home as compared to pre-HST times. In most cases the builders are absorbing this tax increase reducing the supply of new homes to the consumer. SOME GREAT BUYS HOWEVER!

See the link http://www.hstinbc.ca/buying_goods/buying_a_home/

In case you are having some doubts about what my opinion is, let me make another comment. The B.C. Government is making the claim that by 2014 [about two years from now] I will be saving about $120 per year on my HST.

After reading my comments, do you think I should wait two years for the $120, or should I vote YES – which really means NO!

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact me – call 604-910- LACE(5223).

{{The Dusty Shoes Opportunity}}

The Dusty Shoes Foundation is focused on volunteer groups that provide an important role in the fabric of our communities. These groups are many, and can range from Kids Sports Teams to your church, non profit organizations, charities and foundations, to your neighbourhood food bank. They all need funding to operate, and this simple opportunity can be part of your funding plans.

An EXAMPLE of What You Can Achieve:

A referral to Lacey Forward of Westridge Realty Co.is received from your circle of contacts. Your friend receives great service and completes their real estate transaction.

(ie. A common transaction could be to sell a townhouse and buy another property. Based on this simple referral, your group could receive as much as $2,400. Perhaps even more. This sure beats a car wash, and your effort is minimal.)

HOW TO START YOUR OWN PERSONALIZED PLAN:

1. Contact Dusty Shoes Foundation to gain authorization to feature it's brand on your emails, and any web sites that feature your particular group and your facebook account.

 2. Forward a brief outline of the details of your organization, and the purpose for the needed funding. Forward to Lacey@homeswithlacey.com

 3. Keep an eye out for those in your circle of contacts that may be thinking of Buying or Selling real estate. Tell them of your clubs fund raising goals and direct them to the Dusty Shoes opportunity.

 4. Personalized cards featuring your organizations fund raising plan will be produced so that the members of your organization can hand these out to interested parties.

5.  10% of any business from buying or selling real estate that is generated from your contacts will be donated to your particular volunteer group. Everybody at some time or another will deal in real estate. Why not participate and aid your particular group?

Everybody wins! Your friend receives great service, and your volunteer group receives a sizeable cheque. We can only do so much on our own – So let’s see what we can do together !

Contact Lacey Forward of Westridge Realty to set up your program:

(604) 910-LACE (5223) or email: Lacey@homeswithlacey.com     

Some exclusions may apply. All real estate transactions will be with Lacey Forward and Westridge Realty Co. as broker.

{{Not Just A Sign On Your Lawn}}

Buying or selling? You made a decision that this is the time for you to move. I can provide a number of options to speed up the process and save you time and money. Please take a moment to read over some of the options that have assisted many of my previous clients.

Are You Tired Of Waiting?!?!?... 

I Do More Than Just Put a Sign On Your Lawn:

Over the years I have developed many options tailored to my client’s needs. Let me help you end the wait.  I offer more than just a sign on your lawn!

My clients have found the “We Trade Homes” option of great value in purchasing or selling their properties. I also encourage my clients not to overlook these other great solutions. Often a little help is all that is needed to turn your dream into reality and in the process save you money!

What if My Trade Option Is Not For You? You may wish to consider my interim financing option. I can tailor a plan to your needs and budget. This will aid in completing your sale or purchase and avoid any disappointment caused by buying with a “subject clause”. I offer more options than with traditional banks and without the expense and red tape.

Save CMHC Fees: In many cases my clients find that with only a small supplement to their cash equity they can arrange for conventional financing rather than with CMHC. This option can save you many thousands of dollars in mortgage fees that may not be possible through other realtors or lenders.

Purchase With A Partner: I do not offer this option to everyone, but this is an option that I offer to a few select clients each year. I invest the down payment, and rather than a loan, I may partner in sharing the equity for your first purchase. If you feel that home prices are getting away from you faster than you can save the required down payment, then this amazing option may be just what you are looking for.

Financial Challenges: From time to time clients find themselves in some tight financial spots through unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances. Give me a call. I have provided a number of solutions to help in keeping the wolf from the door. This can range from cashing you out on your property or providing easy financing to satisfy creditors until your property is sold. When challenges strike give me a call.

Tailor Made Options: I am in the habit of creating solutions. Bring your real estate needs to Westridge Realty Co. and see what I can do to assist you. In most cases I should be able to provide a solution to whatever challenge you may have. I have been specializing in creative forms of financing and have many satisfied clients to prove it. My motto has always been “All your real estate solutions under one roof” and for good reason.

If you would like more information on any of these solutions, or have any questions, please call me direct at (604) 910-LACE (5223) or email me at lacey@homeswithlacey.com. 

I look FORWARD to speaking with you soon!

{{WE GIVE}}

I LOVE my job and I LOVE real estate,  but, above all I LOVE seeing a life touched by the love and kindness of others and being able to be a part of it. I truly believe THERE’S MORE TO LIFE than what’s going on in “My World” and I have been challenged to look outside those walls and ask myself how can I help?       

 

 

So, when you buy or sell a home with me, Lacey Forward, I will automatically set aside a portion of my commission to be dispersed to various aid organizations throughout Canada and the world.  At the end of a successful sale you and your family will be able to decide which cause the funds will be dispersed to from the choices below and the funds will be distributed through our foundation “the Dusty Shoes Foundation.”  

So join me in striving towards something greater than ourselves.   Together we can make a difference!

I Am Currently Supporting Three Causes:

Canadian - Sexual Human Trafficking: Deborah's Gate

International - Sustainable Living

International - Watoto: Living Hope 

For more information on my giving through the Dusty Shoes Foundation or for detailed information any of these organizations please click here to visit my web-site.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to give me a call at any time: 

(604) 910.LACE (5223)

{{WE FINANCE}}

*FINANCING OPTIONS EXCLUSIVELY FOR CLIENTS OF LACEY’S & WESTRIDGE REALTY*


My clients have found the We Trade Homes option of great value in purchasing or selling their properties. I always encourage my clients not to overlook the other great financing options we also offer. Often a little help is all that is needed to turn your dream into reality and in the process save you lots of cash!

What if My Trade Option is Not For You?
You may wish to consider my interim financing option. I can tailor a plan to your needs and budget. This will aid in completing your sale or purchase and avoid any disappointment caused by buying with a “subject clause.” I offer more options than with traditional banks and without the expense and red tape.

Save CMHC Fees
In many cases my clients find that with only a small supplement to their cash equity they can arrange for conventional financing rather than with CMHC. This option can save you many thousands of dollars in mortgage fees that may not be possible through other realtors or lenders.

Purchase With a Partner
I do not offer this option to everyone, but this is an option that I offer to a few select clients each year. I invest the down payment, and rather than a loan, I may partner in sharing the equity for your first purchase. If you feel that home prices are getting away from you faster than you can save the required down payment, then this amazing option may be just what you are looking for.

Financial Challenges
From time to time clients find themselves in some tight financial spots through unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances. Give me a call. I have provided a number of solutions to help in keeping the wolf from the door. This can range from cashing you out on your property or providing easy financing to satisfy creditors until your property is sold. When challenges strike give me a call.

Tailor Made Options
I am in the habit of creating solutions. Bring your real estate needs to me. and see what I can do to assist you. In most cases I should be able to provide a solution to whatever challenge you may have. I have been specializing in creative forms of financing, and have many satisfied clients to prove it.

When you are thinking of moving you owe it to yourself to at least find out the details of this amazing offer.

All of the above features offer my clients superior real estate service, a faster sale and more money in your pocket.

You never know until you ask, it's at least worth a phone call.
Call (604) 910.LACE (5223).

MORTGAGE UPDATE and DEBT CONSOLODATION

Hello my Faithful Blog Readers!

I came across this write up from one of the amazing mortgage advisors I work with and thought I would let you in on it.  It covers where things are currently at with interest rates and lets you know about some of the FREE services that we provide to help you save money. 
 
 
A NOTE FROM BJ BLOCK -  http://bjblock.mortgagebrokerteam.ca/

Rate News – One of the most asked questions we’ve received lately is regarding interest rates, and where they’re headed.  While its impossible to predict the future, one of the key indicators we pay close attention to is policy set by the US Federal Government.  Ben Bernake, U.S. Federal Chairman confirmed recently that the exceptionally low interest rates in the US will last for an ‘extended period of time’.  Though the Canadian economy is in considerably better shape, most analysts predict that we won’t see any movement in our Prime rate until the announcement on July 19th.  Even if rates begin to rise, we don’t expect them to rise too quickly or too aggressively.  For this reason we are still recommending variable rate mortgages to our clients who qualify, while maintaining options to ‘fix’ at any time for long term planning.

Debt Consolidation - The debt load the average house hold carries has garnered significant press recently.  I’m often surprised by how many clients continue to carry high balances on credit cards and student loans when there is equity in their home they can access.  Whether it be a Line of Credit, or a small second mortgage, there are a variety of products available for people who have equity in their home to consolidate debt.  I recently went through this process with my mortgage and took out a small home equity line of credit to consolidate some of our debt.  By doing so I’ve saved nearly 15% in interest, and have been able to manage and pay down debt much easier.

Call me today and allow us to see if we can help you save some money and put a plan together specifically for you.

What are you waiting for? It’s worth a phone call at least......

604-910-LACE (5223)
www.homeswithlacey.com 

 

IMPORTANT *HST* NEWS

An important vote is coming shortly. Speak up with your views. Note [this survey is not my survey, and it is submitted directly to those in the Government that need to hear your input]

PASS THIS EMAIL ALONG TO ANY INTERESTED PARTIES – THIS IS IMPORTANT!

Should the HST be reduced on home purchases?
Should the overall rate be reduced?
If you have strong feelings on the HST... now is your chance to express them.

This weekend is the final weekend prior to the referendum in June to participate in the BC government's survey seeking input on improving the HST.
Please take a few minutes to complete this brief survey,
It closes on Monday, May 16.
Thank you to BCREA for forwarding!

PS/ Contact me if you have any questions regarding the HST, and how it impacts you and your real estate. This may aid you when you are completing the survey.

CALL 604-910-LACE (5223)

{ Mortgage Update and Debt Consolidation }

Hello Faithful Blog Readers!

  I came across this write up from one on my amazing mortgage advisors BJ Block and thought I would let you in on it.  It covers where things are at currently with interest rates and lets you know about one of the FREE services we provide to help you save money.  I encourage you to call me @ 604-910-LACE (5223) should you have any questions or if you would like some more information.
 

A NOTE FROM BJ - http://bjblock.mortgagebrokerteam.ca/ 

Rate News – One of the most asked questions we’ve received lately is regarding interest rates, and where they’re headed.  While its impossible to predict the future, one of the key indicators we pay close attention to is policy set by the US Federal Government.  Ben Bernake, U.S. Federal Chairman confirmed recently that the exceptionally low interest rates in the US will last for an ‘extended period of time’.  Though the Canadian economy is in considerably better shape, most analysts predict that we won’t see any movement in our Prime rate until the announcement on July 19th.  Even if rates begin to rise, we don’t expect them to rise too quickly or too aggressively.  For this reason we are still recommending variable rate mortgages to our clients who qualify, while maintaining options to ‘fix’ at any time for long term planning.

Debt Consolidation - The debt load the average house hold carries has garnered significant press recently.  I’m often surprised by how many clients continue to carry high balances on credit cards and student loans when there is equity in their home they can access.  Whether it be a Line of Credit, or a small second mortgage, there are a variety of products available for people who have equity in their home to consolidate debt.  I recently went through this process with my mortgage and took out a small home equity line of credit to consolidate some of our debt.  By doing so I’ve saved nearly 15% in interest, and have been able to manage and pay down debt much easier.

I encourage you to take us up on this offer.  Should you have any debt allow us to see if we can help save you some money.  REMEMBER It’s not always about how much money you have but it’s how you manage it and what you do with it!
 

What are you waiting for? It’s worth a call......
 

604-910-LACE (5223)

www.homeswithlacey.com   

{{The Three In One DIY Project}}

Ok, you're going to love this one...I promise.  It combines two of my favourite things: burlap (or in your case, maybe a fabric you L O V E) and creativity. And just in case you're wondering I have lots of both!

In my never-ending search to find you some awesome and creative home decor ideas I came across a a bulletin board makeover done two ways...and I thought I would share them both with you.  The reason I liked them is because they do TRIPLE duty, three in one, yep, that's my kind'a deal!

1. They are pretty - we all need some pretty in our house
2. They are practical - they are functional and will help keep you organized
3. They take up wall space and can easily be "art" - and lets face it, artwork is expensive, so this is great!

The first one is from "Hodge Podge" - a local Vancouver blog....Barbara does some awesome DIY projects, including recovering a bulletin board with burlap.  Check it out:

To see how she did it step by step follow this link:

http://hodgepodge-babselou.blogspot.com/2010/04/burlap-bulletin-board.html

The next one is from Canadian designer Sarah Richardson, and was recently featured on an episode of her show "Sarah 101":

An inexpensive mirror (let's think Sally Anne, Value Village or Craigslist!) was removed from it's frame and then fabric was glued to foam core and re-inserted into the frame.  Beautiful, practical and fills up the wall space perfectly.

Both versions of the DIY bulletin board are simple, practical and easy to do.  They also add a bit of character and interest to your home that you can easily take with you if you ever decide to move.  And if moving is in your near future, don't hesitate to give me a call!

*Lacey

{{Trade Program}}

Over the next little while I would like to share about some of the amazing programs that I offer to my clients. Let’s just say I don’t just put a sign on the lawn. We Trade Homes, We Finance, and We Partner. What do I mean by this? Continue to read and I will tell you....

    

“WE TRADE HOMES”

 

This common question is always asked: "How does it work?"

To be fair, this is not a service that most realtors commonly offer their clients. The main reason is, realtors usually are not willing to take the risk. 

At Westridge Realty, I, Lacey Forward, offer this service to my valued clients to make your real estate needs simpler and thereby removing risk to my clients! Hopefully the following will give you a brief overview of how this amazing service works.

1.  Have Lacey Forward represent you as your Buyer’s Agent.

2.  Place an offer to purchase on a Westridge Realty Co. listing.

    Lacey will prepare an accurate market evaluation for your existing   property.

3.  List your existing property with Westridge Realty Co. on the MLS service.

4. If your property fails to receive an accepted offer to purchase within 30 days from the listing date, then you will receive a pre-determined “Guaranteed” price for your property. The worry and inconvenience of waiting for an offer on your property is now removed.

 

My clients have found the trade program to be a valuable asset and service for the following reasons.

 

·          Take the uncertainty out of moving.  Most buyers make an offer on their dream home “ Subject to the sale of their existing property.” What generally happens is another party without property to sell, makes a competing offer and then your offer to purchase falls apart. You are now back to square one. Avoid this disappointment by trading.

·          Some buyers chose to buy non subject, and then obtain interim financing. This is costly and you run the risk of owning Two Properties. Trading removes this expense.

·          Sellers when entertaining offers want to know that their property is sold. Many wont’ accept a buyers “Subject Offer”.  I am usually able to negotiate a better purchase price for my client, based on the fact that the sellers are certain of a sale.

·          Your existing property gains better exposure to the buying public because they have the option of also “Trading” and they know that a trade property is priced right on the market by a motivated seller. 

·          When I receive an offer on your existing property, I can once again offer this amazing service, so that you may receive an offer without the subject to sale clause!

·          Perhaps you wish to build a NEW HOME and you don’t want to move twice. Trading may offer you the advantage of remaining in your existing property until your new home is complete. This can avoid the cost and inconvenience of calling the movers twice and renting interim accommodation.

 

When you are thinking of moving, you owe it to yourself to at least find out the details of this amazing offer!

 

All of the above features offer my clients superior real estate service, a faster sale, and more money in your pockets.

 

Some flexibility and certain restrictions may apply. You never know until you ask. It is worth at least a phone call. 

604-910-LACE (5223)

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Every now and then you’ll find me sharing a few of my favorite things…everything from people, to places and just some random things too! 

This time around I wanted to share with you one of my favorite places to visit:  Porter’s Coffee and Tea House in one my favorite neighborhoods in Langley…… MURRAYVILLE. 

A 110 year old heritage building, once of the home to the Porter family, Porter’s sits next to the round-a-bout at 216^th and 48^th in the heart of Murrayville.  Not only do they have home made fresh baking, sandwiches and soups, they have a great selection of old style candy (reminiscent of a good ol’ candy store), live music and YUMMY breakfasts!!!

I love breakfast food and it’s one of my favorite places in Langley to visit and enjoy a great breakfast with my sweetheart or good friends. You will often find Lisa and me having our meetings over a great breakfast and a cup of coffee.  

If you haven’t visited Porter’s I would encourage you to go check it out.  They have live music various Friday and Saturday nights…what a great place for a special night out or date night.  Quaint, unique, comfortable and certain to have something for everyone’s taste buds.