If you’ve got a small bathroom, you might be surprised at the cost of an update. Bathroom remodels do not vary a great deal due to their size. That’s because the same issues usually need to be addressed – plumbing, wet-area sealing, showers, and a new vanity unit. Industry estimates suggest remodeling a half-size bathroom…
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Many homes have an odd-shaped corner that is often left empty or decorated with a table and vase that collect dust. Awkward spaces can often be found under a staircase, on the landing area upstairs or between a bedroom and bathroom. A solution for an awkward corner can often be a small home office or…
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You’ll often see sign boards outside homes that state the property is “in escrow”, but what does that actually mean? It means the house is not sold, but a deposit has been taken and a deal is in its final stages. A deposit is known as “earnest money” and represents a small percentage of the…
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Hot summer days can lull us into believing the warmth and lazy, long evenings will never end. But fall will soon be upon us. The next few weeks are a great time to prepare your home for this change of season and the winter that will follow. If you’re one of many homeowners thinking of…
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A home should be welcoming and comfortable, but as a real estate agent, I see many homes that have been conquered by clutter. Clutter affects your attitude towards your home. When you decide to sell, it means you face more work to prepare your property than setting a few moments each week to get on…
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Selling your home can be stressful even when the process is well organized and going as planned. There’s a lot going on at a psychological level that can make you feel deeply uncomfortable even when things are under control. Let’s take a look at why you might be feeling unsettled and how to reduce the…
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It’s an old real estate cliché, but “location, location, location” is never more true than when selecting an investment property. The area and style of property in which you chose to invest will determine the type of tenant and level of rent that you will attract. You must research your target area. You want to…
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Doing a major remodel of your home may seem like an easier and more affordable solution than selling, but be warned. It is a huge commitment and has significant downsides including stress, dust and mess, scope-creep and budget overruns. There is also the risk of over-capitalizing on your property. Ask yourself what your home will…
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Owning an investment property is a little like running a business. It provides a great source of income and builds personal wealth but inevitably comes with a series of costs that hit your bottom line. The great news for property investors is that many of these expenses are currently tax-deductible. It is a common misconception…
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You’ve finally found a place to buy and the offer has been accepted. Closing is underway. Thank goodness you never need to inspect another home again. Right? Wrong. You should go through the property one last time to ensure everything is in order. Here’s what to look for: 1. Is everything present and accounted for?…
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