AN EXPERTS TAKE ON THE "HOUSING BUBBLE"

I read an interesting article today from BC real estate association's chief economist.  Most of the 2 second clips on the news these days are playing with our emotions including mine.  It's really kind of them to educate us with a whole 2 seconds news flash.  (sarcasm)  Always get the whole story before you make big decisions and look at your personal scenario. The news is out there to get great reviews not to be your financial advisor.  Look to the experts and get the WHOLE PICTURE. Take a look at the link below.

http://www.bcrea.bc.ca/docs/economics-forecasts-and-presentations/2012-11bulletinarticle.pdf

2012 CURRENT MARKET UPDATE

As everyone has returned from summer holidays, activity has picked up and the fall market is in full swing.  In the recent Real Estate Weekly, CIBC’s chief economist wrote a column stating that BC will lead in housing sales over the next decade and that current media coverage is highly exaggerated. (Click here to read full article: http://issuu.com/rew1/docs/ly-sep7 )That being said, when you are making a home decision, plan to be in the home for 5 years. Don’t make a decision based on fear or speculation—make a decision based on what you want, need, and can afford. Be realistic. 

First Time Home Buyers Opportunities = FREE MONEY & Candy Store Selection of Supply

-  $10,000 Buyers incentive that is only available until March 31, 2013 

   (New Construction purchase)

-  Save on the property purchase tax (Properties under $425K) 

-  Use your RRSP savings towards your down payment 

-  $750 tax credit (CASH). 

For those of you who have not owned in the last 4 years, you can also qualify for the $750 CASH incentive. I will be hosting a short, informal seminar later this month for home buyers. I will be covering these grants, as well as what you need to do to get them.

With prices being steady, it presents a great opportunity for those who want to upsize. Interest rates are still at all time lows, and for properties that have suite potential, often times it costs less per month to live in the house than it would to live in a townhouse: more space, a backyard, and a similar monthly payment. 

Be sure to call me before you decide to buy or sell. 

604-910-LACE (5223) 

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!

How to Get Top Dollar - Part 2

In my continuing series on “How to Get Top Dollar” I would like to talk about de-personalizing and editing your space.

As I mentioned in my last post in this series, making your home as appealing as possible to a wide array of people is the ultimate goal. One of the first things to understand is once you put your home on the market you must shift your thinking; now it’s time to approach your home as an object for sale– not as your home.

Start by de-personalizing your space. Remove the majority of personal photos and precious personal mementos. While these items are special and important to you, they don’t matter to those coming to view your home. People want to see your home – and the architectural elements that make your home special – not your family pictures.

Second, edit your space. Make your house clean, simple and easy to view by maximizing the space in each room. This means taking some time to sort through your belongings. You may end up donating things you no longer need or packing up items that are not needed until after you move.

You want your rooms to feel spacious, your closets to be organized and your home to feel welcoming. Making your home feel move in ready will help you get top dollar, as potential buyers won’t feel as though they will have additional expenses upon move-in.

If you’d like more information on getting top dollar I’m happy to chat or come by your home to give you some pointers. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Introducing LOVE MONTH

I'm excited to share my current promotion with you.

For February, the month of LOVE you will SAVE:

20% off your listing fees

$200 refer a friend bonus - gift card to Home Depot - Costco - or The Keg
(*Referral gift will be delivered when friends move into their new home*)

Looking to buy? Call about our special buyers home credit.

PLUS We're doubling our giving: 20% of all profits from new business between
February 6 - 20 will be donated to the charity of your choice

There's something for everyone!

2Gether WE CAN BRING CHANGE!

If you would like to talk with me directly about this promotion or anything real estate please feel free to call me at: (604) 910-LACE (5223).

*Listing discount received upon purchasing and selling with Lacey Forward*

Your Personal Fundraiser

Did you know that your volunteer group or charitable organizations can be fundraising with me? Through our Dusty Shoes Foundation you can receive a sizeable cheque.

Here’s a brief run down of how it works:
• Contact Dusty Shoes Foundation to gain authorization to feature its brand on your emails, and any web sites that feature your particular group and your facebook account.

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

• 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.

• 10% of any business from buying or selling real estate that is generated from your contacts will be donated to your particular volunteer group, charity or foundation.

If you would like more information on starting your own personal fundraiser click here and call me directly at(604)910.LACE (5223).

How To Get Top Dollar - Part 1

One of my favourite things is helping people get the MOST for their home.

Often a few simple changes before listing a home can help you stand out from the competition and bring in those top dollar offers. So, with that in mind, I am going to start a “Top Dollar” series where every month I share a tip on easy things homeowners can do to get the offers they really want.

This month I am focusing on paint, also known as the “liquid renovator.” Paint can honestly do wonders, and being fairly inexpensive the results vs. costs are awesome. When selling your home ensure it appeals to a wide array of people, this means that neon green wall in your son’s bedroom may need to go, or the chipped baseboards may need a facelift. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color keeps things pleasing to the eye and makes things look move-in ready.

Here are a few popular and neutral paint colors that are current and work with a wide array of homes decor styles:

BM Grant Beige

BM Hazy Skies

BM Revere Pewter

If by chance you have a larger project that you need completed in your home I’m sure I can help with that too. When you visit my website click on the “Home Owner’s Toolbox” to find a list of trades people, companies and contractors that I recommend to help you with any of your home needs.

If you have any questions about your home I would love to chat with you, please feel free to call me directly at (604)910.5223.

2011 Year In Review

If I were to sum up the Fraser Valley real estate market this year in one word it would be “modest.”

This is quite the change from what many of have known from previous years such as 2005 to 2008 where there was rapid growth in the real estate market.

Although this year was slightly lower than the average, it presented an opportunity for those looking to move up in dollar value, or, for the first time home buyer. Another great opportunity are the low interest rates that remained available throughout the year and are still available today.

History has shown that on average the real estate market in the Fraser Valley increases between 4% to 6% per year so anything over and above this amount is considered a bonus for real estate owners. A couple years ago we saw a correction in the market, a recovery then followed which now brings us to today’s date; more of a balanced market.

Even though 2011 was slightly lower than the norm this wasn’t the case for all; communities such as South Surrey took the prize for the highest increase in property values this year. This is a great example of why it’s important to acquire regular updates on property values specific to your current community or the community you’re looking to move to.

Just because the news says that there was an increase or a decrease that doesn’t necessarily mean this has affected your area. Do your due diligence and investigate the facts before you take that 10 second clip from the news to heart. REMEMBER real estate is a long term investment.

If you’re looking to move into a new home this coming year, plan on living there for a minimum of 3-5 years when considering your options. I welcome your calls with any questions or to receive a current market evaluation specific to your area.

Have a great year and I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Know The Market

One of the most KEY pieces of information anyone needs to know before considering selling or buying a home is “know the market.”

The market is continually changing as supply and demand dramatically affects each community differently. Also, the type of housing you are considering can vary significantly from city to city. Just because the news says that the market went up or down does not necessarily mean this is the case for your community or the community you’re considering moving to.

Here's a great example: South Surrey took the prize for highest gain in property value for 2011, while the general year end reviews would label the Fraser Valley as having a less than average property value gains. Such broad statements don't prove correct in the case of South Surrey - this information is pertinent to making informed decisions.

Take the time to talk to a real estate professional to get the correct market information so that you can make the best decision possible.

Want to stay up to date? A great way to stay in the loop is to “like” my Facebook page. I am always posting market updates, real estate tips and relevant information. Go to my web page at www.homeswithlacey.com and click on the Facebook logo to be directed to my "like" page.

Have a question about the current market,or want to know what your home is worth right now? I would love to speak with you, you can reach me directly at 604.910.LACE(5223).

UPDATE!

Since my last post at um.... THIS MORNING....
I just received notice from one of our lenders that they are offering 2.89% on a 4 year term.
This is worth looking into if you are currently in a mortgage already or if your considering a new one as there are MAJOR SAVINGS to be had.
Call me today at 604-910-LACE (5223) if you would like me to look into this for you.

Lacey

Saving YOU Money...That's What I Do!

As some of you may have heard, some major lending institutions have lowered their fixed term rates.

Someone mentioned to me the other day that they were concerned that if the rates were so low people will increase their debt loads, possibly beyond their means. Be assured, individuals who apply for mortgages MUST qualify at the posted rates which are often always higher (over 5%).

However, the benefit to you is that you don't have to pay 5%. How does 2.99% sound??? Yes, it sounds great, its a HUGE savings! Take advantage of the low interest rates.  I've had a few people ask me recently what I would recommend when choosing the type of mortgage whether that be variable or a fixed term.  My answer is that the fixed term rates are pretty much the same as the variable rates so why wouldn't you lock in? It doesn't really make any sense at the moment to go for the variable rate if you can have security for 4 years at the same price. If you’re considering purchasing a new home its important that you get a pre-approval completed so that you can secure this low rate. Call me today and I'll connect you with the people you need to speak with in order to get this rate.

As for the current home owners who are likely feeling a little blue, YOU NEED NOT! Just because you may be locked into a 5 year term, or less, you could still potentially be able to change your mortgage to a lower rate and acquire some savings.

If you're interested in saving some money be sure to give me a call and we can look into it together.  Part of what I do is I'm always looking for ways I can save my clients money. So what are you waiting for? It's worth at least a phone call: 604-910-LACE(5223).

RATE SALE! A note from Deborah Dickson @ RBC:
RBC Royal Bank Announces Special 2.99 per cent and 3.99 per cent Fixed Rate Mortgage Offers

TORONTO, January 13, 2012 - RBC Royal Bank announces a four-year special 2.99 per cent fixed rate mortgage offer and a seven-year special 3.99 per cent fixed rate mortgage offer. Both offers are effective January 14, 2012.

"We are pleased to offer all Canadians flexible mortgage options at outstanding value. Canadians can choose between our great low four-year rate at 2.99 per cent or affordable protection at 3.99 per cent for seven years. They can even combine the two within our flexible RBC Homeline Plan," said Marcia Moffat, Head, Home Equity Financing, RBC. "All RBC mortgages come with amortizations of up to 30 years and full prepayment privileges. Also, Canadians can take advantage of our "double up" feature to become debt free faster."

This rate is a discount off of posted rate and is only available on new mortgage applications made until February 29, 2012. Mortgage must be funded by April 30, 2012.
Other terms and conditions may apply.

I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Lacey

Hello 2012!

What an amazing year 2011 was!
Not only was it a solid year for the real estate market but it was also a great year with much to be thankful for. Because of the many amazing clients I had the privilege of working with we were able to fund:

4 wells that will provide fresh water for an entire village in south East Asia

200 chickens that will provide food and an income for families in need

The life of 1 girl being restored from sexual human trafficking (in Canada - Our country).

6 Living Hope sponsorships for women in Africa through Watoto

There are countless times I've spoken with people who have expressed a desire to help bring change to the things that are NOT OKAY in our world however they don't seem to know where to start. "The problem is so large" they say, "how could I possibly help?"

I find people often overlook what's currently in our hand. It may be our gifts and talents, our time, or simply just putting up your hand and saying "I'll do it. " Sometimes it's even so obvious and we still seem to miss it! What's in my hand? My business. Real Estate. I made a choice 3 years ago to start the MORE TO LIFE program and that's how I'm able to play my part.  What could you do? I encourage you to look at what's in your hand and see how you can BRING CHANGE and then make a choice to do something and then..... DO IT.  

From the bottom of my heart thank you for your support and continued confidence in me. Without you this wouldn’t have been possible. So thank you. Would you join with me again this year in making a difference?

A portion of EVERY sale goes towards giving the marginalized in our city and in our world a hand “UP”. Should you, a family member, or a friend be looking to move in the near future please don't keep me a secret! The referral of your friends and family is greatly appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you soon! Together we can BRING CHANGE.

PS: If you would like to know more about these amazing charities click HERE

AND, don't forget about my current promotion. Any referrals received in January will receive a $350 gift card to HOME DEPOT - COSTCO - Or HARRISON HOT SPRINGS when your friends or family move into their new home! Don't miss out! There's no limit to how many people you can refer.