Anna Jaz  
 
 

 
Freehold Freehold homes offer two significant benefits: freedom of choice and privacy. Since you own the structure and grounds, you're free to decorate and renovate whenever and whatever you want. However, all maintenance (indoors and out) is your responsibility - be prepared to spend time and money taking care of your home. Condominiums Condominiums are typically less expensive to own than a detached house. With a condo, you own (and are responsible for) the interior of your unit. Upkeep of the building and grounds is handled by the condominium association, which is funded by monthly fees collected from tenants. The down side? Condo residents enjoy less privacy than residents of detached homes, and often have to adhere to strict rules regarding noise, use of common areas, renovations, etc.
 
 
This step will show you how much you can afford. This is accomplished by speaking with your financial institution and establishing what monthly payments you will be comfortable with.
 
 
If you price your property too low, it may sell quickly, but you'll lose out on money. If you price it too high, it may not sell at all. I as your agent can help you figure out the best asking price for your home. The benefits of the right price A well-priced property may generate competing offers, which will drive up the final price. Other real estate professionals will be enthusiastic about presenting your property to their buyers. Your home will sell faster because it is exposed to more qualified buyers. Listen to the market As part of your pricing strategy, your agent will put together a comparative market analysis, which is a good indicator of what today's buyers are willing to pay. It compares the market activity of homes similar to yours in your neighbourhood: Homes that have recently sold represent what buyers are willing to pay. Homes currently listed for sale represent the price sellers hope to obtain. Listings that have expired are generally overpriced or have been poorly marketed. Don't overprice your home Some sellers believe that if they price their home high initially, they can lower it later. Instead of making you more money, this strategy could end up hurting you. Early activity is key. As soon as a home comes on the market, agents and potential buyers sit up and take notice. If it's overpriced, interested parties will quickly lose interest. By the time the price drops, the majority of buyers are lost.

  The elements of an offer
Here's a quick reference to everything you need to know about making an on offer on a property.

1. Price Depends on the market and the buyers, but generally, the price offered is different from the asking price.
2. Deposit Shows the buyer's good faith and will be applied against the purchase price of the home when the sale closes. Your agent can advise you on a suitable amount to offer.
3. Terms Includes the total price the buyer is offering as well as the financing details. The buyer may be arranging his/her own financing or may ask to assume your existing mortgage if you have an attractive rate.
4. Conditions These might include "subject to home inspection," "subject to the buyer obtaining financing," or "subject to the sale of the purchaser's property."
5. Inclusions and exclusions These may include appliances and certain fixtures or decorative items, such as window coverings or light fixtures.
6. Closing or possession date Generally, the day the title of the property is transferred to the buyer and funds are received by the seller, unless otherwise specified (except in Manitoba and Quebec).




8 things to look for when you buy
When you fall in love with a home, the things you like about it can blind you to its problems. Next time you go to an open house or tour a property with an agent, keep your eyes open with these top tips:
1. Take a look at general upkeep. Is it clean? Are lawns left uncut? Do walls need paint? If the small stuff hasn't been taken care of, there's a good chance that bigger issues have been ignored as well.
2. Test it. Try out lights, faucets, toilets, air conditioning and major appliances.
3. Check for water damage. Look at ceilings and drywall for stains and bulges. Water that works its way in through a leaky roof or a cracked foundation can rot wood, create mildew and destroy possessions.
4. Watch for "spongy" floors. Take note of soft, springy sections, squeaky or uneven areas - these can be a sign that costly floor repairs are needed.
5. Check doors and windows. Make sure they fit snugly in their jambs and operate smoothly. Feel for drafts. Look for flaked paint and loose caulking - if wood isn't protected from moisture, it will rot.
6. Look at the foundation. If you see deep cracks or loose mortar and bricks, there may be a significant structural problem. Soggy areas near the foundation are also a warning sign.
7. Make sure there's enough storage space. If you are moving from a home with large closets and a shed, make sure your new house is able to store an equivalent amount of belongings.
8. Measure. Make sure your furniture will fit into your new house. These tips are for your own first (or second) look at a home. For true peace of mind, you should always hire a certified home inspector before you buy.
         
 
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