It can be challenging to know the right time to downsize your home. It can be a very emotional experience. The family home is full of memories of raising a family and sending young adults out into the world. So, it’s understandable that couples moving towards retirement are reluctant to leave behind the sanctuary that…
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A fire in your home can happen at any time of the year, but with colder months upon us it’s easy to see how the danger increases with the setting of wood-burning heaters and the use of candles to create a cozy atmosphere. Most fires start in the kitchen and are caused by neglect. You…
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As a homeowner, you’ll inevitably have to call in a contractor to deal with electricity or plumbing problems at some stage. It’s one of the ‘pleasures’ of owning property! Choosing the right contractor can feel a little overwhelming. But it is always important that you take swift action to remedy problems, or even ask a…
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Older apartments are attracting a lot of buyer attention in our area because they can be genuine treasures in the rough. The trade-off is that sometimes you have to deal with floorplans, fittings and design quirks that architects dropped 20-plus years ago. As an experienced local agent, I find it fascinating to compare the beautiful…
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Whether you’re about to sell your home or renovate, there are few better low-budget ways to add some sparkle than a fresh coat of paint. Many agents recommend homeowners break out the brushes before putting their property on the market because a good paint job hides the bumps and scratches that walls endure over the…
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Buying real estate for the first time can feel quite intimidating – you’ve got to deal with agents, sellers, rival buyers, banks and lawyers. And it’s not always clear what role each of them plays in the process. As an experienced local agent, I have worked with many young and first-time buyers. It’s great to…
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As anyone who’s completed a bathroom remodel will tell you, the most significant influence on design is the humble bathtub. Because of its size, its placement will dictate where other elements, such as the vanity, shower and toilet, can be installed. If you’re dealing with a tight space, you should consider combining a bath and…
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Staging your home before a viewing can be one of the most important actions you can take to help maximize the value of your home once it’s on the market. Preparing your home for prospective buyers can be a challenge, especially if you remain living in the property while it’s for sale. If you’ve moved…
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Selling a home is an intense undertaking at the best of times, but your nerves can be strung even tighter when your prospective buyer sends around their building inspector. Most Contracts of Sale will make a successful transaction contingent on the building report. Detrimental findings in a property inspector’s report encourage the buyer to return…
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Painting your home is a budget-friendly improvement that anyone can do, whether you’re about to sell, or just want to freshen the place up a bit. A bright home is right at the top of buyer expectations these days, and creating a fresh, beautiful color scheme will turn heads. It can also go a long…
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