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.

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