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!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
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).
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).
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
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
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
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
Thursday, January 12, 2012
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:
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?"
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.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
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?
Do you have any favourite places to visit during the holiday season?
Saturday, December 24, 2011
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 a
Lacey Forward
604-910-LACE (5223)
www.homeswithlacey.com
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