Mandana Tehrani - You've Found a Home

Are you planning to sell your property this spring? Here are some tips for a successful spring sale.

• Price your home competitively — Research comparable properties in your area for what they listed and sold for and use these as a guide.
• Be prepared to negotiate on price and terms — Think about the lowest price that would be acceptable to you.
• Give your home’s exterior some love — Expect potential buyers to examine the exterior more closely in the warmer months. Ensure your patio furniture is clean and wash the windows inside and outside if possible. For balconies, planters of colourful flowers go a long way. If you have a yard, clear any debris from the winter, consider putting down some fresh mulch, and tend to landscaping.
• Air out your home — Open the windows to let a cross-breeze through for fresh air. Also, consider placing some diffusers throughout your home for a pleasant scent.
• Stage seasonally — For example, since it’s springtime, setting out a vase of fresh tulips would be in tune with the season. Work with a professional stager.
• The entryway — This is your first opportunity to make a statement. Choose items that creates a lasting impression, such as a brand-new doormat, a nice framed mirror, a console and a matching bench.
• Give your home a good spring clean — Depending on your region, winter can create a lot of extra dust from continuous heating. Consider hiring professional deep cleaners.
• Tend to any repairs — While this may seem obvious, depending on your region, winter can be rough on a home, so scan your home to see if you need to do any minor repairs or improvements.
• Declutter—Donate or sell anything that doesn’t have a practical or aesthetic purpose for a well-presented home.

Even if you aren’t preparing for a spring sale, many of these tips can be used to stay on top of home maintenance and keep your home humming into spring.

When priming your home for sale there are some definite missteps you can make if you just “wing it,” which can affect the sale of your home. So, to prevent this from happening, read on for staging mistakes to avoid.

• Hodge-podge of styles — Maintain a cohesive style throughout your home to create a harmonious “look and feel.”
• Personal and bold — Put away your personal photos and mementos and keep your home décor neutral. Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home, so those personal items can be distracting.
• Simple repairs or updates neglected — Repaint dull or chipped paint and update outdated light fixtures or décor.
• Unprofessional photos — Professionally taken photos are well worth the investment as they will capture the attention of buyers quicker than poorly taken or poor quality photos.
• Layout and size of furniture — If you have a massive sectional occupying most of your living room, it’s going to make the room appear much smaller. If you have room, keep some space between the furniture and the walls to create an illusion of spaciousness.
• Clutter — Perhaps obvious, but those various coloured shampoo bottles in the bathtub and small appliances on the counter create an immediate eyesore for prospective buyers. Declutter and find a home to hide those unsightly items.
• Too little or too much lighting — Strike the right balance using soft, layered lighting throughout your home.
• Grungy linens— It doesn’t have to cost much to refresh your bed linens and towels that will be on display, and it's worth the difference it makes.
• Unpleasant scents — We become accustomed to the familiar smell of our home over time, but even if you think your home smells pleasant, have a friend come over to do the “smell test” and get an outside opinion.

Hiring a reputable professional staging company with plenty of good reviews will help you avoid these staging mistakes, so you stand your best chance of a speedy and successful sale.

Getting ready to move this winter? While it may not be as easy a move as in other seasons, with a little preparation you can accomplish a move that goes off without a hitch. For some helpful tips, read on.

• Be prepared to be flexible – Check the weather in the days leading up to your move. If a storm is forecasted for your moving day, consider rescheduling your move date. Get any pre-move errands completed in advance of your move, so you don’t get stuck trying to accomplish them in bad weather at the last minute.
• Prepare both homes for winter moving – Ensure both your old and new homes have clear, wide paths for moving, plastic sheeting to protect floors, and if it will be dark during any part of your move, check that the exterior lighting works, and consider headlamps.
• Protect belongings –Temperature changes from the warmth of your home to the cold of the moving truck can cause items like glass to break and electronics to malfunction, so secure these items according to the manufacturer’s instructions and have them loaded onto the truck last or transport them in your own vehicle to keep a closer eye on them.
• Organize utilities – Schedule utility hook-up at your new home before you move so you aren’t stuck without the ability to control indoor temperatures in the height of winter.
• Prepare your vehicle – Especially if you are making a long-distance move, make sure your vehicle has been serviced recently and is stocked with gas, washer fluid, first aid and emergency kits, and blankets.
• Show your movers some appreciation – A warm drink and something to eat for your movers will be a nice gesture to show you care.

Don’t let Mother Nature make moving more stressful than it needs to be, and plan ahead if you have a winter move coming up.

What do you get when you have an onslaught of aging baby boomers, an affordability crisis, and a housing shortage? Granny pods – also known as guest suites, in-law suites, or accessory dwelling units. They are tiny homes that are either separate or attached to an existing home with shared utilities and are usually equipped with a kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom, and living area. For more on why they are gaining popularity, read on.

• Avoids the downsides of a retirement home – A granny pod can be a lot more affordable than a retirement home, while also making it easier for family to stay connected.
• Aging in place – An elderly person can continue to live on their property and rent out the main house to caregiving family or renters, enjoying the comfort of familiar surroundings.
• Childcare - Aging parents, if still in good health, are just steps away to help with childcare for their grandkids, saving money.
• Multi-purpose revenue source- Despite the name, granny pods can also be a place for adult children to live or used as a rental property for passive income.
  • Home value – For all the reasons above, granny pods can also increase the value of your home.

When considering a granny pod, take into account:

• Local zoning by-laws – There may be rules against additional dwellings on a property, but given the housing crisis many municipalities are moving towards more leniency with them.
• Family dynamics– Consider if everyone will get along overall. Discuss if meals will be separate or shared and if the grandkids can stop by anytime.
  • Unexpected costs – You may need to upgrade utilities, ready your yard, and include accessibility features (e.g., ramps, grab bars) that may increase your costs more than initially expected.

If you’re interested in learning more about the granny pod movement, you can check online for visual ideas and more information.

Deciding when to move can be a tough decision. If you are thinking about moving, consider the following:

• Length of time living in your next home - Would you be there long enough to recoup the initial costs of moving, such as the down payment, closing fees, and moving expenses?
• Mortgage penalties – Try to align selling with when your mortgage is up for renewal to avoid a penalty, or negotiate it with your lender. You may also have the option to port your mortgage and take on a blended rate combining your old interest rate with the new one.
• Your job situation – If you don’t have a secure job this could be an obstacle with a lender.
• Non-monetary costs – Would you be moving mid-way through your child’s school year, or would they have to give up the sports team they are on if you moved? Consider disruptions to your routine and social connections, along with other stresses in your life, to determine if it’s the best time to move.
• Plans for the new home – Do you have plans for what you would want to do with your new home, and might there be any restrictions on what you can do (e.g. do you intend to renovate it, run a business out of it, or use it as a short-term rental)?
• Your future plans – Would your new home have enough space for your family or future family, including pets? Consider which schools are nearby if you have kids or plans to start a family.
• Your day-to-day life – Consider the neighbourhood you would want to live in, the monthly bills, and the lifestyle you would like to have.

 

If moving is on your mind and you are looking for advice to help with your decision, remember I’m always happy to help. Call or email today.

With housing costs at unaffordable levels for many, some people are turning to alternative homes. Here’s a breakdown of some of the other options out there:

Tiny living – If you can compromise on space, there are tiny homes (approx. 120 to 500 sq. ft.), some of which can be hauled around, micro apartments (approx. 200 to 400 sq. ft.) in buildings with varying amenities, and shipping container homes, which can be tiny (approx. 160 sq. ft.), or the size of an average-sized home constructed of multiple containers.

 

Vehicle conversions – For a 2-for-1 home and transportation deal, consider an RV or a converted school bus.

 

Houseboats – This option may be for you if you are a water lover. While the price is much lower than a condo and can even offer more space, consider the maintenance costs and how you feel about seasonal weather like wind, rain, and snow while on a boat.

 

Eco homes – In our ever-increasing eco-conscious world, there are different kinds of eco homes, such as passive Homes, designed to minimize energy consumption, and off-grid homes that are self-reliant for electricity and water.

 

Laneway homes – Typically found in urban centres and accessed from a back lane, these homes could be new builds or converted garages. Note, that not all jurisdictions allow laneway homes.

While alternative homes can offer an appealing price tag, consider that you may have to compromise on space, location, and quality of the build itself. In some cases, you may not qualify, or it may be more difficult to obtain a mortgage or insurance

It happens. Desirable home. Desirable neighbourhood. Multiple buyers with offers. It can be a recipe for a bidding war.

 So, what do you do if you have your heart set on a home that other people want too?

• Show them the cash – According to a report by Redfin, cash offers were 4 times more likely to win a bidding war. Of course, when considering making a cash offer don’t drain your emergency fund, and weigh factors such as if there is a penalty to pay if you withdraw from a certain account.
• Get pre-approved – Next to cash, getting pre-approved before you shop is the next best option. This way you know what you can afford, and it ups your chances of winning a bidding war because the seller knows you are serious and can close faster.
• Offer over asking – In doing so, make sure you know the highest amount you are willing to offer, thinking in terms of what the monthly payment would be.
• Limit contingencies – Contingencies waived usually apply to inspections, appraisals, finances, and insurance. Be aware that waiving contingencies limits your ability to back out of the deal and you take a potentially serious financial risk.

Navigating a bidding war can be tricky, so you need to be prepared for one before it happens.  As an experienced REALTOR^®, that’s where I can help. If moving is on your mind, call me today.

Of course, there are many other reasons it may be time to make a move. If you think now might be that time, call me today.

The living room or family room is often a focal point for buyers who come to see your listing. They’ll look around and imagine relaxing evenings, family get-togethers, and holidays celebrated in that room. So it’s important to ensure it looks its best.

Here are professional staging tips for doing just that:

1. Neutralize the palette. Consider repainting walls in shades of beige, grey, or off-white. These hues will appeal to a broader range of buyers and allow them to visualize their own décor in the space. These colours will also make the room look bigger.
2. Strategic Furniture Placement. Position furniture away from walls, if possible, to create a cozy, conversational setting. Keep pathways clear to ensure easy movement and make the space feel more open.
3. Invest in Key Pieces. A few standout items can elevate the entire look. Perhaps it’s a chic coffee table, an elegant sofa, or a statement rug. And remember – you get to take these with you when you sell.
4. Add Textural Elements. Incorporate soft throws, plush pillows, or a tactile rug. These elements create a cozy atmosphere that can make potential buyers feel right at home.
5. Minimize Electronics. While many family rooms are centred around the TV, when staging, it’s advisable to downplay its dominance. Consider a tasteful cabinet or decorative screen to partially hide large electronics.
6. Greenery and Fresh Flowers. Potted plants, succulents, or a vase of fresh flowers can add vibrancy and a sense of freshness.
   1. Accessorize Thoughtfully. Less is more when it comes to accessories. A few well-chosen pieces – like a decorative bowl, coffee table, books, or elegant candlesticks – can provide the finishing touches without overwhelming the space.

Want more tips on selling your home faster and for top dollar? Call today.

Although weekends are a prime time to schedule viewings, many buyers will prefer to see your property on a weekday evening. Buyers might, for example, be interested in your listing but be out of town on the weekend. If you don’t accommodate their request for a weekday evening appointment, you might lose that opportunity.

So, when it comes to scheduling viewing appointments, being flexible and accommodating is always advised.

But, what if you’re going to be away during the week or have another reason why you can’t show your home Monday to Friday?

There are a few options you can consider.

One is to use a Lock Box. This is a secure box that contains a front door key. (You may have seen these when shopping for a home yourself.) Only your real estate agent has access. If a different agent wants to show a client your home, they’ll need to make an appointment and get access from your agent.

A Lock Box can ease any security concerns you have about showing your home while away.

Another option is to not schedule weekday appointments but be VERY accommodating during the weekend. That means allowing a potential buyer to see your property Sunday at 7:00 PM. It’s essentially a trade-off, but it can work.

Finally, if you don’t want appointments during the week because you have such a busy household — kids in school, evening work shifts, etc. — consider making just one weekday available. For example, offer showings on Wednesdays from 5:00-7:30 PM. That might be a slight inconvenience, but it will have been worth it if an interested buyer sees your property and makes a good offer.

Bottom line: Do what you can to make it as easy as possible for buyers to see your home.

Want more tips on selling your home faster and for top dollar? Call me.

Many seemingly small things can be a big turn-off to prospective buyers. So, it’s wise to identify and fix these issues when you list. Here are a few examples.

1. Outdated or Neglected Exterior: Chipping paint, a tired-looking façade, or uninspired landscaping will impact a buyer's all-important first impression. The solution? Fresh paint, power washing, landscape trimming, or even adding new plants. 
2. Old or Damaged Appliances: Outdated or broken appliances will get noticed by prospective buyers. The solution? Repair and thoroughly clean them. It might also make sense to invest in new appliances. If you go that route, buy energy-efficient models that look great and they will become a selling point. 
3. Unpleasant Odours: We become so acclimated to smells in our home that we often no longer notice them. But buyers will! Odours from pets, smoking, perfumes, and exotic cooking are especially detracting to buyers. The solution? Reduce odours by avoiding scent-producing activities (such as cooking) prior to viewing appointments.
4. Overly Personalized Interior: Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, not you. The solution: Eliminate as many personal items as possible. Make the style and décor attractive but neutral. 
5. Old or Poorly Maintained HVAC Equipment: Buyers often ask for the age of furnaces, water heaters, and air conditioning units. They’re concerned about potential maintenance issues. The solution? Get older equipment inspected by a professional. Then have that documentation available to buyers.

As you can see, investing in a few repairs and upgrades can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells – and for how much.

Outdoor living spaces have become the new heartbeat of homes — even in the winter. They now serve as an extension of the indoors, a place where homeowners can dine, entertain, and relax. So, it’s smart to emphasize the outdoor living potential of your home when you list.

Your garden is the first outdoor element potential buyers see. Well-maintained, colourful plants can make a fantastic first impression, so keep the garden lush and appealing. Include a variety of perennial and annual plants that bloom at different times in the season. Consider planting in containers or raised beds for easy maintenance, and use garden ornaments sparingly to keep the focus on the natural beauty of the space.

Next, your patio or deck can act as an outdoor living room. Consider staging it to make it look that way. Highlight any attractive, weather-resistant furniture you have. String lights or solar lanterns add a touch of warmth and make the space usable even after the sun sets.

And don’t forget about your barbecue or outdoor kitchen. A well-equipped, clean, and functional outdoor cooking area can be a big draw. Ensure grills, burners, and other cooking appliances are in good condition.

Finally, remember that not all outdoor spaces need to be elaborate. Sometimes, simple lawn chairs or a modest patio set can add to the appeal. The key is to make the outdoor space inviting, no matter how small it is.

One last tip: If you plan to list during winter, ensure you have pictures of your outdoor space during good weather, ideally in summer. Those will be a helpful addition to the listing materials.

When you’re selling your home, you want to make it as attractive as possible to buyers. One compelling strategy that has been gaining traction is the application of Feng Shui principles to home staging.

How?

Embracing Feng Shui staging techniques starts with decluttering. Clutter restricts the free flow of 'chi' or positive energy. Hence, a clean, clutter-free space is crucial. It promotes an open, spacious feel, which in turn evokes a sense of tranquillity and comfort.

Natural lighting, a key element in Feng Shui, is another crucial consideration. Bright spaces are synonymous with positivity and openness. Ensuring ample natural light penetrates every corner of the home helps draw positive energy in and makes the space look larger and more inviting.

In Feng Shui, colours hold significant meaning. For instance, earth tones such as beige and soft yellow can create a welcoming environment, while blues and greens, symbolizing water and wood elements respectively, encourage tranquillity. Incorporating these colour schemes can create a balanced and calming atmosphere, which is sure to appeal to potential buyers.

The positioning of furniture also plays a role in Feng Shui. Furniture should be arranged to promote a smooth flow of energy and should not obstruct pathways. In smaller spaces in particular, strategic furniture placement can make the area appear more substantial and organized.

You don’t have to go full-on Feng Shui to make your home look great to buyers. But, implementing a few of these ideas can pay off if buyers get a more positive and serene feeling when viewing your home.

Landscaping may not be the first thing that comes to mind when selling your home in autumn. However, the outside of your home is still the first thing buyers see, so it’s worth exploring ways to update your landscaping to create a cozy and welcoming feel.

Here are just a few ideas:

1. Add potted plants: Potted plants are an easy way to make your outdoors more attractive, especially along walkways and around your front door. And, because they’re potted, they can quickly be removed should the weather turn inclement.
2. Keep it Tidy: As leaves begin to fall, make sure to rake them up and keep your lawn and landscaping looking neat and tidy. This will help potential buyers see the full potential of your outdoor space without being distracted by clutter.
3. Light it Up: As the days get shorter, outdoor lighting can be a great way to showcase your home's exterior. Consider adding some string lights to your patio or walkway, or installing some spotlights to highlight your landscaping.
4. Emphasize Outdoor Living: There is a growing trend for enjoying outdoor living well into the fall. So, emphasize your outdoor living spaces by adding comfortable seating or updating your patio furniture to make it suitable for cooler days and evenings.
5. Add Seasonal Accents: Adding some seasonal accents to your landscaping can help create a cohesive look. Consider adding some pumpkins or gourds to your front porch, or incorporating some autumn-themed decor into your outdoor spaces.

By following these autumn landscaping tips, you can help make your home more attractive to potential buyers. So, embrace the changing seasons and use your landscaping to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that buyers will love.

Want more tips on how to make your home more attractive to buyers?

Call today.

Curb appeal is important. It’s the first thing buyers see when they drive up to your home — and, often, the first impression they get. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to achieve a great-looking exterior. Here are some simple and affordable ideas for enhancing your home's curb appeal:

1. Add a fresh coat of paint: One of the easiest ways to make your home look brand new is by adding a fresh coat of paint to the exterior. Choose a colour that complements the architectural style and surroundings of your home.
2. Upgrade the front door: Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior. Consider painting it a bold colour, replacing it with a modern style, or simply adding a new doorknob and knocker.
3. Install outdoor lighting: Outdoor lighting not only improves your home's curb appeal but also adds security and safety. Consider adding solar-powered pathway lights, wall-mounted fixtures, or even string lights to your front porch.
4. Update your mailbox: An outdated mailbox can detract from your home's appearance. Consider upgrading to a modern style or painting your existing mailbox with a fresh coat of paint.
5. Add landscaping: A well-manicured lawn and some strategically placed plants can instantly improve your home's curb appeal. Plant colourful flowers or add potted plants to your front porch.
6. Power wash your driveway and sidewalks: Over time, dirt and grime can build up on your driveway and sidewalks, making them look dull and dirty. Rent a power washer or hire a professional to clean them up.

Improving your home's curb appeal doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. By implementing these simple and affordable ideas, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its value. Remember, the first impression is the most important one, so make sure your home's exterior looks its best!

When it comes to selling your home, preparing the exterior can be just as important as preparing the interior. The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, and it can greatly impact their first impression of your property.

Luckily, there are several low-cost outdoor improvements that will make your home more appealing to buyers.

First, consider adding some potted plants or flowers to your front porch or entryway. This can help add some colour and life to your home's exterior, and create a welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers. Even in winter, small potted evergreens can have an impact.

Next, consider cleaning up your landscaping. This can include trimming overgrown bushes and trees, mowing the lawn, and removing any dead plants or debris. By doing so, you can make your home look well-maintained and attractive to potential buyers.

You may also want to consider adding some outdoor lighting to your property. This can include adding some solar-powered lights along your driveway or walkway, or even adding some outdoor string lights to your patio or deck. Outdoor lighting can create an inviting atmosphere, and make your home look more attractive to potential buyers.

Finally, consider giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. Your front door is a focal point of your home's exterior, and painting it will make a big difference. If you’re changing the colour, be sure to pick one that complements the façade.

These outdoor improvements don’t cost much, but will increase your home's curb appeal, which is proven to help sell your property faster and for a better price.

Need more advice on how to create the “wow” factor in your home when you sell? Call today!

There are several ways to make the selling process easy and relatively stress-free. One way is to create a selling timeline that fits your needs, lifestyle, and capabilities.

Say you’d like to list your home in four weeks and expect it to be on the market for an additional four weeks. That’s an eight-week timeline. How do you create a manageable schedule that works for you? Try these steps:

1. Determine what you need to do to get your home ready for sale.
2. Assign who will be doing what. For example, if you need to paint, will you hire a contractor? Do it yourself? Make a family day out of it?
3. Estimate the time it will take to do those tasks. Then add 50% as a buffer. (It’s easy to underestimate time on tasks.)
4. Look at your current schedule and block out times on your calendar so you can complete those tasks at a comfortable pace.

Go through these same steps for other selling activities, such as finding and meeting with a real estate lawyer, having buyers come to see your property, etc.

When you create a manageable — and realistic — schedule, you may find that most of the stress and worry of selling evaporates. A manageable schedule also ensures you won’t miss anything and then have to scramble

There’s no doubt about it. Buying a home that is “move in ready” is a real convenience. All you need to do is get your belongings in place, and you’re ready to enjoy living in your new home. You don’t even need to paint. That’s why move-in-ready homes tend to attract more buyers.

However, there are advantages to buying a property that needs work. And, if you’re currently shopping for a new home, a listing that requires some repairs, upgrades, or renovations might be worth considering.

Why?

Properties that need work tend to be priced lower than comparable move-in-ready listings. Depending on market demand, the price savings can range from modest (just a few thousand dollars) to substantial.

Also, homes that need work tend to attract fewer buyers and offers, so there’s less competition.

Another advantage is the opportunity to get into a desirable area you otherwise might not have afforded. It might be worth the extra work you’d need to put into the home to live in your dream neighbourhood.

But, while there are advantages, there are also important caveats.

The first caveat is you must know the scope of work that is required before making any decision to purchase. How will you get the work done? How much will you need to budget for the improvements? Are you prepared for the realities of living in a property during renovations?

The second caveat is you must anticipate any issues that can’t be seen during a typical viewing. The last thing you want is to pay for a major repair you weren’t expecting. That’s why getting a professional home inspection as a condition of your offer is often a good idea.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re buying a “needs work” property. But, I can help you make an informed decision. Call today.

When you read or watch the news about the real estate market, it may seem reasonable to make the assumption that the information applies equally to your street or community.

But, that isn’t always true.

In fact, the characteristics of your local real estate market can differ in many respects from the regional or national market.

Say the regional real estate market is most active during certain months of the year. That might be true of your neighbourhood, too. But, there may also be some caveats. If, for example, buyers are eagerly awaiting listings to come up in your community, then that micro market might heat up faster than other areas in the region.

Knowing how your local market works and how it differs from the larger regional market is crucial when selling. It helps you decide when it’s best to list and helps to ensure your home sells quickly and for a good price. That’s a strategic advantage.

Understanding the local market also helps when buying. Imagine acting only on regional or national market statistics without knowing the unique market characteristics of a neighbourhood you’re hoping to buy into. You could end up missing opportunities. You don’t want that!

So, pay attention to the local real estate market. Get the latest information on what’s happening.

Imagine you have a growing family, and you want to trade in the small sedan for something larger. So, you visit the dealership and come back with a bus.

Well, that would be upsizing a bit too much – unless you have a really huge family!

That’s the challenge of upsizing or downsizing. You need to be careful not to take it too far and end up with something that isn’t suitable.

This often occurs in the real estate world. For example, homeowners might decide to sell their home and find a smaller one. But, if they go too far, they end up with a property so small they feel claustrophobic.

How do you avoid a similar scenario happening to you?

If you’re thinking of upsizing or downsizing, the best place to start is in your own home. Think about how you use the space. Do you and your family spend a lot of time in certain areas? Are there rooms and other spaces that are rarely used? Or, conversely, do you wish you had more room — such as an extra bedroom, wider driveway, separate living and family rooms, etc.?

Do a thoughtful analysis of how you’re using your current property in order to reveal clues about what you’ll want in your next home. If you’re upsizing, you might find that all you need is an extra bedroom. If you’re downsizing, you might realize that one family room, rather than separate living and family rooms, would work better for you.

So, whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, carefully decide what type of new home you need. Be as specific as possible. Consider criteria such as the number of bedrooms, entertaining space, bathrooms, driveway size, etc., that you need. Doing that will help ensure your upsizing or downsizing move will be successful.