Selling Your Condo in Ottawa in the Winter

If you’re cautious about selling your Ottawa condo during the winter season, you’re not alone. You’ve probably heard that the winter is a slow season, that people typically aren’t looking to move, or that you’d be wise to wait until the spring. However, that isn’t always true. Let’s break down some of the pros and cons of selling your condo during the winter season.

Pros:

Although there are fewer buyers shopping in the winter season, those who are are more serious about finding a home. You can assume if they are looking during the winter ‘slow’ season, that it is imperative they move relatively soon! Because of this, you may actually get away with fewer showings and more interested parties earlier on.

Because the winter market is slow, you’ll also have fewer competitors in your specific market. During the spring, you may find that plenty of condos similar to yours are on the market. In the winter, you may be the only one, meaning you’ll have more interested buyers coming right to you.

Another benefit of starting your journey to sell your condo in the winter is it gives you more time if you need it. If after meeting with your real estate agent you realize you’d like to upgrade the floors for example, even if it takes longer than expected, the market is heating up as you do it, so you’ll still benefit from an easier sale. If you decided to do the same in the summer, you might have the opposite.

Finally, after the holidays, we typically see an increase of people browsing for new homes. It’s a great time to be on the market because your home will be seen by a large number of people who are getting started on their buyer’s journeys!

Cons:

Despite these benefits, there are definitely some ways that selling a condo in the winter is difficult. First and foremost, the exterior of your building and any outdoor amenities may be hard to photograph for your listing. You may be able to bypass this if your real estate agent has previously listed a home in your condo, or if they have connections to the building and can access photos from the initial marketing of the building. Snow and ice typically don’t perform well, and some outdoor amenities may be totally closed off.

A second issue with the snow and ice is keeping your home clean while potential buyers visit for showings or open houses. A pro tip from our team, get a large and thick rug for your front entrance to give people adequate space to remove their shoes!

Although fewer buyers mean more serious buyers, it also means that your property may be on the market for longer than you’d like. If you’re looking for a quick closing, you’ll need to work with your real estate agent to create a plan to try and get that done.

Winter is also cold and flu season, meaning you may find more showings getting cancelled, and you may be at a larger risk of getting sick by welcoming so many people into your home. We always offer our clients hand sanitizer for all showings and open houses, but there is definitely more risk during this season!

Overall, there is no one perfect time for everyone to put their property up for sale. If you are considering selling, the best thing that you can do is work with an expert realtor who can help develop a plan for you and your property based on your needs! Whether you’re prioritizing a high-priced sale, a quick closing, or are just testing the waters… working with an expert will help you ensure you’re making all the right choices.

What Condominium Buildings Are Close To Shopify? 2019 Edition

Established in 2004, Shopify has become one of Ottawa’s top employers. Seeing so much growth over the past several years, the company has now has two addresses in Ottawa; 234 Laurier Ave and 150 Elgin St. Everyday new positions are opening up at these two locations that the desire to live close to work is a top priority for new employees.

Are you a current or future employee of Shopify? If so, we put this guide together to help you decide which condo buildings you should be considering. We have narrowed down the top five buildings that are in less than a 10 minute walking distance to both Shopify locations and have the fresh contemporary look and vibe you want to have. Plus, all of these options have units available for both buying, or renting.

We have helped Shopify employees find a home in each of these buildings below - need help finding a place to live? Fill out the form at the bottom and let’s chat.

179 Metcalfe St and 40 Nepean St
Tribeca Phase One and Tribeca East

The Tribeca’s were built by Claridge Homes in 2014 and 2015. 179 Metcalfe (phase 1) contains 260 units that includes studios, one, and two bedroom units that range in size from 460sqft to 1145sqft. 40 Nepean St contains 179 that also include studio or one and two bedroom units. Both buildings feature spacious units with floor to ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, high ceilings, and open concept living spaces.The amenities at both these buildings include a concierge, board room, party room, indoor pool, fitness centre, guest suites, bicycle storage, storage lockers, and underground parking. The Tribeca’s are within a 4 minute walking distance from both the Shopify Laurier Ave location and the Elgin St location. Hard to beat the location. Why we love them? Aside from their great location, you can find a Sobey’s (soon to be Farmboy) grocery store in the buildings podium (which also includes wine and beer sales!).

324 Laurier Ave - The Mondrian

The Mondrian was built by Urban Capital in 2008 and contains 250 one, two bedroom units (there are a couple studio units but rare) that range in size from 472sqft to 1600sqft. The units feature 9 foot ceilings, open concept living spaces, and floor to ceiling windows. All of the amenities are located on the 6th floor - which include the outdoor saltwater pool, bbq and dining area, gym, lounge/party room. Pets are also allowed in this building. The Laurier location is a short 4 minute walk from The Mondrian and the Elgin location is 7 minutes. Why we love The Mondrian? Shoppers Drug Mart is located in the podium of the building, bike paths located at the front door which allows quick and easy way to get to the office, real concierge in the building, and most units are of a good size. The building is easy to spot from the street with the solid red glass panels - an ode to french painter Piet Mondrian who the building was named after.

199 Slater St - The Slater

Built by Broccolini in 2017, The Slater contains a total of 179 studio, one, and two bedroom units. These units range in size from 1442sqft to 1929sqft and feature European kitchens, 9 foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, and modern barn style bedroom doors. Amenities at The Slater include a party room, theatre room, fitness centre, hot tub, storage lockers, concierge, underground parking, and also allow pets under 40 pounds. The walking distance to the Elgin St location is 7 minutes and only 3 minutes to the Laurier Location. Why we love The Slater? Aside from the higher level of quality finishes, the building also has a minimum lease term of only two nights. This means that you would be able to use the property as an short term investment (such as AirBnb) if you are traveling, or gone for an extended period of time.

300 Lisgar St - SOHO Lisgar

Built by Mastercraft Starwood in 2013, SOHO Lisgar contains a total of 169 one and two bedroom units that range in size from 522sqft to 1032sqft. These units feature gleaming hardwood flooring, marble bathrooms, European appliances, and floor to ceiling wall to wall windows. Amenities at SOHO Lisgar include a concierge, outdoor pool with loungers, outdoor BBQ, party room, theatre room, hot tub, board room, fitness room, sauna, bicycle storage, storage lockers, and underground parking. Pets are also allowed in this building. The Laurier location is a short 5 minute walk and the Elgin location is 8 minutes. Why we love SOHO Lisgar? The design is timeless, location is great, plus the amenities are stunning.

Too close? Want to live a little further out?

Don’t want to live that close to the office? We have also narrowed down 6 buildings that are modern, still close… but not tooo close.

224 Lyon St - Gotham

Built by Lamb Developments in 2016, this statuesque building features a total of 251 studio, one, or two bedroom units, that range in size from 424sqft to 1445sqft. These units feature hardwood flooring, exposed concrete ceilings and accent walls, floor to ceiling windows, and open concept living spaces. Amenities at Gotham include concierge, outdoor BBQ and dining area, party room, BBQ hookup on the balcony, bicycle storage, storage lockers, underground parking, and pets are also allowed. Gotham is a 13 minute walk to the Elgin Shopify location and a 10 minute walk to the Laurier location. Why we love Gotham? Aside from the modern finishes (exposed concrete), Gotham is the only building on this list that allows you to have your own BBQ on your balcony (gas hookup on the balcony), plus gas stoves in the unit.

255 Bay St - The Bowery

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The Bowery was built by Richcraft in 2017 and contains a total of 248 studio, one bedroom, two bedroom, or two storey units, that range in size from 375sqft to 945sqft. The spacious units feature hardwood flooring, sleek kitchens with granite counter tops, and large windows flooding the living space with natural light. Amenities at The Bowery include a rooftop pool, outdoor BBQ and dining area, party room, yoga centre, fitness centre, concierge, guest suites, storage lockers, underground parking. This building also allows pets. The Bowery is a 15 minute walk to the Elgin location and 11 minutes to the Laurier location. Why we love The Bowery? The amenities are beautiful. Indoor rooftop pool, gym, lounge, dining room, they are hard to beat.

354 Gladstone Ave and 349 Mcleod St
Central Condo Phase 1

Central Condo Phase one was built by Urban Capital in 2012 and is comprised of 240 one and two bedroom units that range in size from 478sqft to 1117sqft. These stunning industrial style units feature gleaming hardwood flooring, 9 foot concrete ceilings, exposed concrete pillars and ductwork, and floor to ceiling windows. The amenities are shared between the two buildings and include a concierge, dining room, fitness centre, party room, and recreation centre. Central Condo Phase One is within a 13 minute walk to the Laurier location and 16 minutes to the Elgin location.

360 Mcleod and 340 Mcleod st
Central Condos Phase 2 and Hideaway

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Built by Urban Capital in 2014 and 2015, these two buildings contain 328 studio, one or two bedroom units that range in size from 435sqft to 863sqft. These urban-style units feature 10 foot exposed concrete ceilings, exposed ductwork and modern sliding bedroom doors. The amenities are shared between the two buildings and feature a party room with full kitchen and pool table and private terrace with outdoor BBQ. There is also a resort style outdoor pool with private cabanas and poolside fireplace. Both buildings are a 15 minute walk from the Laurier location and 18 minutes to the Elgin location.

Also in walking distance to these condominium buildings is a Sobeys Urban Fresh, Independent Grocer, Shoppers Drug Mart, LCBO, several coffee shops, five star restaurants, and so much more.

Are you a Shopify employee who is new to Ottawa, trying to sort out where the best place to live is? Unsure and want help? Let’s chat! Fill out the form at the bottom of the page, txt/call 613-286-9501, or email Matt@mattrichling.com

Landlords Guide To Renting Your Ottawa Condo

Are you looking to rent out your Ottawa condo, but don’t know where to start? Heard too many horror stories about bad tenants? We have put together a short guide to help guide you with the leasing process and what to expect.

Know Your Condo

Gather all of the information that you can. Ask your condo board about the rules or restrictions on rentals. Some buildings in Ottawa have minimum lease length of three or six months (to stop short term leasing), and some have rules stating that all tenants must be from the same family (to avoid student or rooming homes). What utilities or services are included in the rent or in the condo fee? What about pet’s? Etc. The more information that you can find out, the easier it will be down the line.

Know Your Market

How much are you going to price the condo for? What are rentals going for in your building or area? How do they compare to your unit? What is the market like and can you take advantage of that? Are you looking to rent the unit furnished? We have seen prices jump around $200 per month this year depending on the building and location, due to a lack of inventory.

Marketing

Before we can get tenants into the property we need marketing materials (pretty pictures) that help gather interest. Is the unit vacant or do you still have your furniture in the unit? If you are still there, do you need to declutter and do any repairs or remove furniture? We almost need to treat it like you are selling. Remember we are trying to find a tenant who is going to love the place as much as you do and one who is willing to pay top dollar for that space.

Once everything is perfect we bring in our professional photographer to capture the unit. While you might think it is easy to rent with basic phone quality shots, or even no photos (depending on how hot the market is), having back up photos when the place looked perfect is invaluable. The tenants might not leave it the cleanest and to have the photos ahead of time is only going to save you in the long run!

Best Places To Advertise The Rental In Ottawa

Same as when you are selling, you want to get the maximum exposure that is possible. Industry websites like Realtor.ca are mandatory, but still important are Kijiji, Craigslist, Padmapper, Zumper, along with the more local sites! Are you targeting a specific tenant, such as a student (Ottawa or Carleton University), or diplomat or even specific embassy, political member or specific party, high tech crowd? Depending on the tenant there are specific websites that would be a better target for that tenant. To advertise to Carleton University students, we use Places4Students.com as it is the preferred vendor by the school.

Writing the Ad

Thinking like the tenant you are trying to attract and writing the ad to speak directly to them. Focus on facts and information, not fluff. Know your rules and listing off what is included in the rent. Things that might seem obvious to you, might not be to a tenant. Be clear and don’t use all caps (unless you

Showings and Inquires

Once the property ad goes live, you will start to get inquiries from interested tenants. Often they want some clarification about the ad (is “X” allowed, or is “Y” included in the rent?). Use these questions to help improve the ad if you are not getting the responses that you are expecting. The majority of the inquires will want to book a showing to see the unit. In a hot market, you can schedule a few times that work best for you. Make sure that when you are booking a showing you get some basic information about the person and what they are expecting (when do they want to start etc) so you are not wasting your time if that isn’t possible. Qualifying them as best as possible.

Tenant Selection

Once you have started getting tenants interested in applying, then you really need to put on your detective hat. We have all prospective tenants fill out a full rental application, which lists current and previous job and housing situations. It asks for references, about pets, expected start date, car information, and debts. We will also ask for proof of employment (such as pay stubs or letter of employment), plus we will pull there credit report (equifax etc) so we can see first hand their credit score and how they have managed their finances. We are trying to paint a picture of who the tenant is, and how reliable they will be. Once you have collected all of this, then call the references and employer and verify things that are on the application. You want to ensure they have not lied! Be careful when calling current landlords, often they will say amazing things about the tenant in order to get them out - helping problem tenants find a new place to call home! When speaking to landlords, ask facts, such as did they pay rent on time, etc.

The Lease

Once you have selected a tenant, you will need to have them sign the lease! The government has made this much easier with introducing the mandatory residential lease. It is quite easy to fill out, but take your time and ensure you fully understand each part of the lease. Just because you can cross something out or add a special clause does not mean it is legal or enforceable. You can always speak with your lawyer to help with any additional clauses or questions!

TIPS for condo landlords!

• Don’t forget to change your insurance to landlord insurance! Plus make sure your tenants have property and liability insurance as well!

• Often utility companies have Landlord accounts, so any days in between tenants are properly charged to you.

• Be upfront with your tenants. We prefer open dialogue and good communication with our tenants. If you don’t want pets, make it clear in the add and tell those who apply.

• Learn the rules, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure.

• It’s a business - so treat it like one. Keep a record of all of your expenses. Speak with an accountant. You can’t write off your time!

• Explore the benefits of hiring a property manager. A great property manager is worth their weight in gold.

Questions about renting out your condo? Want help and guidance? Let’s chat!

Condos + Babies: Interview With Sam

We sat down with Sam Hetz who is the Owner and Medical Director at Concept Medical to ask him about his first hand experience with having and then raising his daughter while living in their condo. Sam and his wife Hana, raised their daughter Ava in a 1057 sqft two bedroom two bathroom hard loft in Hintonburg.

Hana, Sam, and Hana

What are some of the biggest issues you had raising Ava in the condo? How were you able to overcome them?

We actually found it a total breeze. Given we had two bedrooms, it made it easier than what I think it would have been if we had a smaller space. The only concern we had was that we have a loft-style condo, with open spaces at the top of the door way, which means sounds travel very easily! In the end, this was actually a benefit, as Ava got use to having ambient noice, and now sleeps through anything! Now that Ava is almost 3 years old, we have found that she is expanding her real-estate and taking over more of the condo.  

Babies take up a lot of space, how did you cope? Any tricks?

The first thing would be to buy what you NEED not what you think you’ll need. Babies, especially in the first 6 months really only require the basics. Loading up your condo with extras is a sure way to fill up your space - and stretch the budget. Second, is organize - we installed a closet organizer (thanks, Ikea) which maximized our storage space. As well, we purchased a crib that has an attached changing table and numerous drawers, and internal shelves which allows us to tuck away diapers, etc… 

You live in an open loft, how did you handle noise and keeping things quiet or getting sleep yourselves?

Honestly, this was a non-issue for us (see question 1). At first it was a major concern of ours. However, I think if your baby gets use to surrounding noise, they become use to it, and are able to fall asleep.  

What did you need and what did you waste your money on?

One of the best things we received as a gift was a Diaper Gene. So worth it! It takes up very little room, and kept our condo smelling fresh! If you’re not fortunate to receive one as a gift, it’s worth the buy. I would say the one disappointing buy was a Jolly Jumper. It DID take up a lot of space, and our daughter out grew it really quickly. Given the set up/take down in the condo, I likely wouldn’t buy another one unless we had more space. Oh, and being in a condo we really had NO need for a baby monitor (although we did buy one as well). 

Did you raise, or do you know someone who raised their child in a small space? We would love to talk to them - we want to help expecting parents with things that can help them with this upcoming transition! Click the button and fill out the form below!

CLICK HERE

Condos and Babies

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The LRT + Ottawa Condo's - Which Buildings Are Close To an LRT Stop?

Currently under construction, the new LRT is certainly going to help transform the city and make getting around easier. 13 stops in total (not including what is currently built or planned for the second and following phase), including three stops in the underground tunnel which is located downtown. The LRT will without a doubt, transform our city.

However, when I went to try and find an easy way to see exactly where the stops are, or how far away I was from one, there didn’t seem to be an easy resource. To solve this problem we put together a quick (and still a work in progress) interactive map with all of the stops and condo buildings!

Click on this link - or visit https://ottawalrtstations.com

Keep in mind it is still a work in progress as we add buildings, future phases, and stops. If you have some feedback or if there is something we can fix, let me know!

Ottawa Condo Market Statistics - September 2018

Every month we take a closer look at the sales data for the previous month for the top five "downtown" area's - Centretown, Byward Market and Sandyhill, Little Italy (which includes Lebretown Flats), Hintonburg, and Westboro. The information will be specific to apartment style condominiums, and only what sold through the MLS. Also, DOM (Day's On Market) is calculated to include the conditional period which in Ottawa is almost every single transaction to be roughly 10-14 days. Questions?

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CENTRETOWN

Huge jump in the average selling price for Centretown condos this year compared to September of 2017. Part of the reason for the large jump was due to a number of sales over the $500k mark. Over last month, we saw a similar number of new listings, while we saw quite a few more properties sell (33 vs 24). The list to sold price ratio stayed about the same, with the days on market increasing slightly (63 vs 51).

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BYWARD MARKET AND SANDY HILL
(INCLUDES LOWERTOWN)

Compared to last month, the Byward Market saw a healthy jump in average sold price with the number of sold condo units fell over last month (16 vs 24). Other than the differences in sold price, September of 2018 is pretty much the same as last year.

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LITTLE ITALY
(INCLUDING LEBRETON FLATS)

Little Italy continues to see fewer sales compared to new listings which is great if you are a buyer looking to enter. The average selling price is up over last month (362,330) and last year (329,086). Take the sold data with a grain of salt, since there is only a few sales to provide an average.

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HINTONBURG

Hintonburg continues to be an area with healthy demand and very few options for buyers. Lots of older product with very few modern buildings that continue to cause havoc on the numbers. Like last month, we saw the same amount of new listings that ended up selling, providing no increase or decrease to number of available product. With that, the DOM and list to sold price continue to weaken. We are seeing first hand that nice product that is priced right will sell quick!

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Westboro

Westboro continues to stay in great shape with one of the highest average selling prices. The DOM tightened up over last month, however we saw more activity which brought the other numbers more in line with what we are seeing across the city.

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Looking for specific information about an Ottawa condo building or area? Thinking of buying and maximizing your dollar? Let's chat. Fill out the form below.

Matt Richling x Ottawa Citizen - What You Should Know About Buying A Condo In Ottawa

Matt was asked about some of the things to look out for when purchasing a condo in Ottawa. CLICK HERE to read the full article.

"Matt Richling, an Ottawa real estate agent, says prospective buyers should also check with the people who live in the building by knocking on doors or connecting on social media to find out more about the “culture” of the condo. “A condo, in theory, is a city within a city,” he says. “Neighbours are the most important thing when you’re buying a house, and that’s the same here. Instead of living the next plot over, you’re sharing a small wall with neighbours.”

Richling, though, says that being engaged in the financial and physical health of the building is crucial, and that means attending meetings.
“It’s the biggest thing,” he says. “Be involved. Think about what’s important to you.”

Thinking about buying a condo in Ottawa? Let's chat!

Condo Fees - What exactly am I paying for?

The gym at 111 Champagne (SoHo Champagne) is a common element which is paid for by the monthly condo fee.

A common question people ask is regarding the monthly condo fees and what exactly the fee is paying for. To start, the fee is to pay for your share of the building... or your share of the common expenses. 
Your share is decided based on your percentage of ownership in the building or square footage of the overall building. In a highrise, it can be as little as .3% (or even less), however in a small lowrise that percentage could much higher. This would also increase if you have a parking spot and locker. Keep in mind that (typically, in most buildings) balconies or terraces are not used to determine ownership - you don't pay for the square footage of your balcony or terrace. They are referred to as exclusive common elements. You don't own them like the condo unit, instead, you have exclusive rights to use them. 

Common expenses can include:
- garbage collection
- snow removal
- landscaping
- water charges
- electricity for the common elements (hallways, parking garages, etc)
- natural gas heating for the common elements
- natural gas heating for the boiler tanks that supply heating to the units
- building insurance
- professional property management
- audit, legal, and professional expenses (lawyer, accountant, etc.)
- the maintenance, repair, and replacement of the common element components (this is and can be a big one - since this includes the building structure, elevators, windows, etc.) this also includes the amenities and equipment (gym equipment, bbq, pool, etc.)
- the cost of borrowing money (if a repair is needed that can't be covered by the reserve fund, the Corporation needs to borrow money)
- any remuneration payable to employees (superintendent, security, concierge, etc).

Every year Ottawa condo owners receive a breakdown of the expenses, and how the monthly condo fee was allocated and is projected to be spent. It is easy to ignore the document as it is long and dry, but important to look over and pay attention to how the money is being spent. 

Often I explain it as living in a condo provides a luxury that is impossible to match in a residential house at the same price point. Underground heated parking, an elevator, a concierge, gym, party room, no landscaping such as snow removal or lawn cutting, and no taking out the trash - just send it down a chute. 

Have a question about condo living or buying a condo? Let's chat.

Where Does My Condo Start? What do I own?

A common question is regarding the boundaries of the condo, where exactly does it start? What exactly do you own, versus what is a common element? The answer is simple - check your status certificate. The main reason is that every single building is different and each building will have a different definition.

That said let's give you a better answer - let's take a closer look at the status certificate for The Galleria Phase 2 (238 Besserer) which will be fairly similar for those in a recently built highrise. Again, don't assume this is what is used by your building, check your own status certificate.

For the residential condo, the status describes the
- horizontal lower (floor) boundary as the upper unfinished surface of the concrete floor slab,
- horizontal upper (ceiling) boundary as the lower unfinished surface of the concrete slab above the unit.
It is explained using the concrete (rather than the drywall) since many buildings don't have finished ceilings!

Now for the vertical boundaries, 
- The backside surface of the drywall on the exterior walls of each unit,
- In the vicinity of the structural walls and columns, (which shall not form part of the unit), the backside surface of the drywall that surrounds such walls and columns,
- In the vicinity of pipe and duct chases, (which shall not form part of the unit), the backside surface of the drywall surrounding such chases,

What about windows and exterior doors??
- In the vicinity of the windows and exterior doors, the unfinished interior surface of the windows and doors in closed position, the inner or unit side surface of the glass contained therein, and the unfinished interior surface of the window and door frames. 

Fireplace?
- the portion of the fireplace and flue lying within the unit boundaries described above shall form part of the unit.

To sum it up, in 238 Besserer and in many similar buildings you own the drywall and in. BUT always check your own status certificate!

Questions about your condo? Let's chat!

Top Condo Renovations for Maximum Return

A common question that I am asked is regarding which renovations will bring the best return when looking to sell an Ottawa condo or loft. Typically my answer can be very specific to the unit, however, there are some general ideas that you should start with.

1. Painting. Without a question, one of the most common things that is suggested to a client is a fresh coat of paint on the walls and trim work. Sometimes there are hairline cracks in the ceiling or scuff marks on the trim, and for the cost, it is the typically the best thing you can do to prep the condo for sale. A nice light grey goes a LONG way!

2. Kitchen. While not usually the cheapest option, more units around the city are starting to have slightly dated cabinets and counters. While replacing the counters is (essentially) an easy task, replacing the cabinets is a serious overhaul and a lot of work. However, depending on the unit and the cost it can make a HUGE difference in the unit. Remeber that a condo doesn't have numerous rooms or places to spend money - so having the main room look its best does a lot for sale price.

2.5 Parts of the kitchen. Even replacing the handles or painting the cabinets will give a fresh and serious change to the space. You don't always need to spend a boatload of cash to get results. 

3. Flooring. One of the first things most buyers notice when they walk into a unit is the quality of the flooring and the shape that it is in. Do you have carpet? Has the dog put deep scratches all over? Shoe or furniture imprints throughout the unit? These are a huge turn off for most buyers. Resist the urge to throw down low-cost laminate flooring, as it doesn't last. However every unit and budget is different.

4. Bathroom. Similar to the kitchen, there are not many rooms to spend money in a small condo. However, a new cabinet, mirror, or sometimes even just a shower curtain will go a long way in revamping the feel of the en-suite bathroom and can cost a lot less then in the kitchen. Some "modern" buildings from the 2003-2005 era have a very "interesting" yellow mustard tile - again, a huge turnoff for buyers.

5. Closet System. One of the first things we did in our condo was to remove the current standard "builder" closet and replace it with a closet system. This allowed us to fit two to almost three times the amount in the same space. It completely changed the way we were able to use the space and in a condo, every inch counts. There are numerous options available from DIY at Homedepot or Lowes, to custom built options! 

6. CLEAN. Yes, it isn't exactly a renovation, but you would be surprised by the number of people who don't DEEP clean, or even just clean period before putting their unit up on the market. A buyer wants to feel like they can live there and they want to feel that YOU love living there. If you don't take care of the space it subconsciously tells them that you don't like it and that they won't either. Go crazy with the cleaning - it will pay for itself!

While every unit is different, these are typically what I seem to mention when a client is asking what the can do in order to increase the value for selling. Want to chat about your unit specifically or just get more information about selling your condo? I would love to chat and answer any questions that you have.

2018 Ottawa Condo Market - Predictions

Last year I suggested that if you were to ask ten strangers about the Ottawa condo market you would likely get a pretty constant message that the market wasn't very pretty. Keep in mind it has been a rough number of years since things were booming. However, if you were to ask another ten people this year, I would say the responses are going to be less confusing and more focused. 

Since the 2017 Market report, things have certainly increased and we are seeing the condo market pick up. There are fewer listings and fewer DOM (days on market) than in past years. Buildings that had high numbers of listings, only have a couple (if that). The question could be asked if this is due to less supply of units or seller's pricing more realistically and selling. We are constantly seeing multiple offers on condos - again, is it due to lack of supply or more accurate pricing, or both? While the market is not red hot it is certainly better than in previous years. 

All of this while the government is placing more rules and regulations to calm the markets in large urban centers (Toronto etc.). While it will still be interesting to see how the most recent mortgage changes will affect the market - it is too early to tell but most anlysts are agreeing it will have little to no impact on the market especially in Ottawa.

CMHC is predicting that housing starts (new construction) in Ottawa will decline over 2018 and 2019 caused by a drop in apartment (condominium) starts (not freehold housing). This will continue to strengthen the demand for resale or existing homes, especially due to Ottawa's relative affordability. This affordability factor will also help to push up the price of Ottawa resale properties.

What to expect for the 2018 Ottawa condo market?
- A positive condo market. Slightly improved over the 2017 market but not as large of a change as was expected. This means much more balanced, or slightly more in favour of the seller. 

- Slightly increased sales numbers to last year with a modest increase in price. Building off of 2017 and continuing to see growth.

- More units sold to buyers located outside of Ottawa. Parents purchasing for kids while at school,  investors from Toronto, etc. Ottawa has a huge leg up in comparison to other cities when it comes to affordability. We will see more units purchased as investments since the "Ottawa real estate dollar" goes further. Add in the relatively slow and constant growth, it is seen as a safer investment than Toronto or Vancouver. 

- Tighter regulations in condo buildings for short-term accommodations (Airbnb) and more freehold units converted to supply the demand. There is a lot of money in short term rentals, and there is no shortage of people looking for it. 

- First-time buyers using more family money/credit. Borrowing from the bank of mom and dad will be more popular due to the changes in mortgage requirements. As well as parents being on title - to increase the ability for the child to qualify.

- Little impact from the Mortgage Stress Test. Due to Ottawa's lower average price point, the mortgage stress test will affect fewer buyers than in larger urban centers where the average price is much higher.

- More demand for units closer to downtown. The city of Ottawa has a huge push to calm traffic. This includes removing secondary lanes, increasing "no right turn on reds", increasing the number of bike lanes, advanced pedestrian walk at lights, etc. The goal is to make the streets safer - which is great. However, this is going to see an increase in the time it takes to get to and from work. This will also push commercial development in areas outside of downtown. 

- Messy period around marijuana regulations with landlords/tenants and condo boards. As well, what constitutes a grow-op and personal use with regards to disclosure when selling.

Thoughts? It is going to be an interesting year and I am looking forward to it! Bring it on.

Agree/disagree? Tell me below.

Top Hard Loft Buildings in Ottawa

Looking for a real loft in Ottawa? That exposed brick, rough and open concept type feeling? While it is hard to find in Ottawa when compared to other cities, here is a list of buildings to put on your watch list.

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The Wallis House at 589 Rideau Street

Studio Argyle - 255 Argyle Street - Located in Centretown, the building was redesigned by Domicile in 2000, and consists of 40 units over 4 floors.

Wallis House - 589 Rideau Street - Located in Lower Town, the first building was originally built in 1851 and used as a Catholic hospital, among other uses. Eventually, it was purchased by L.A. Sandy Smallwood in 1994 and converted into 47 lofts. All units were pre-sold in less than 24 hours - and this was before the condo craze.

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School House Square - 24 Springfield Road

Laura Secord Factory - 120 Holland Ave - Located in Wellington Village, this building features massive units and are hard to find on the market. Originally built in 1956, the building was converted to lofts in 1998. The building got its name from Laura Secord company who was once a tenant.

Lofts Du Monfort - 297 Dupuis Street - Located in Vanier, the building was originally built in 1912 as "Monfort School". Renovated in 1998 by Nicolini Construction, there are only 15 units making it hard to find one for sale. 

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School House Square at 24 Springfield

School House Square - 24 Springfield Road - Located in New Edinburgh, the building was originally a french catholic school "Ecole St Charles" that was built in 1910. Converted to lofts in 1997 by Domicile.

School House Lofts - 19 Melrose Avenue - Located in Hintonburg, the building was originally built in 1912. It was also a french catholic school "Ecole Sacre-Coeur". Turned into 11 lofts and 12 stacked townhomes in 2009.

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Parkdale Market Lofts - 320 Parkdale

Parkdale Market Lofts - 45 Spencer and 320 Parkdale - Located in Hintonburg it was originally built as a factory and then turned into lofts in 2005. Both buildings are unique as they each have their own differences.

The Warehouse Lofts - 95 Beech - Located in Little Italy, M.J. Obrien built a factory to house a mica factory and a railroad contractor. Converted to lofts in 2000 by Craig Callan Jones.

Looking for a hard loft in Ottawa? Let's chat. I would love to help you out.

2017 Ottawa Condo Market - Predictions

If you ask ten strangers about the Ottawa condo market right now, you are likely to get a pretty general idea of how things are currently going. Not great, slow, crap, etc. Unlike it's sister market - freehold homes are selling quite well and are still breaking monthly sales numbers. Condo's on the other hand, are not so hot. Let's take a quick look back and then see where things are possibly headed.

The condo market has been in this "slump" since 2012 when supply/demand started catching up. We started noticing the number of listings and DOM (days on market) increasing, and fewer multiple offers etc. Over the last few years, the conversation when sitting down with someone looking to sell is often about how to loose as little as possible, or even how to break even. Now keep in mind there are a few factors in play here. Most of these people bought in 2009-2013 (or earlier) and expected the market to keep going the path that it was. At that time, who cared if the view was horrible, upgrades were slim, or they over paid.... it would still be worth more when they sold. As well, many times the condo that was purchased does not fit their current lifestyle (partner/pet/baby/clothes addiction), and after only a few years they are looking to sell. That person has not stayed in the unit long enough to really see the value rise. 

Where are we right now? Well in 2016, the number of unsold units dropped by almost a fourth from November to February (529 vs 699). Builder condo starts (number of permits etc.) from the first 11 months of 2016 were 583. Down from 776 for the same period in 2015, and down significantly from 1301 in the same 11 month stretch in 2014. Less builder starts mean less supply and allows everything to even out (typically 2-3 years). Right now, we still have buildings on the way but more builders are focusing on the hot rental market. Switching poor selling or upcoming projects to rental buildings. Housing affordability really hasn't changed - its still an issue overall, however new first-time buyer credits and low-interest rates still make purchasing attractive (if you can afford it). 

Is the market right now really that bad? The fall market saw numerous multiple offers... (yes, you read that correct), and short days on market (3-4 days, 7 days etc). We had this first hand and couldn't believe it. One of my Centretown listings in the fall had multiple offers (five in fact!) and the property sold over list price. So, no... the condo market in Ottawa is certainly not horrible. It just depends on numbers and who you're talking to.

What should we expect for 2017? Based on the numbers and market, I expect a better condo market overall for 2017. Not a crazy difference, but it will feel better or more positive than 2014/2015/2016, leading the way for a larger change in 2018. 
- A positive condo market.
- Similar sales numbers, but with a modest 1-3% increase in price.
- Sellers spending more to prepare the unit before selling. Painting, decluttering, even staging. All in an effort to maximize the value and shorten the time it takes to sell.
- Fewer high rise condos selling for investment. The 2015/2016 built condo's are all seeing the condo fee rise and the numbers are harder and harder to make work. However you will still see it, being more hands-off and easier to handle makes them perfect for out of city owners, or new first time investors.
- No units purchased for airbnb. This will move to centrally located freehold housing with less rules and restrictions. If a building didn't restrict short term rentals in 2016, it will in 2017.
 - Buyers will spend more time to decide before making a purchase. There is more information and reviews online about buildings and the builder. Buyers will (or should - see below) look closer at the building and unit before they place an offer.
- First-time buyers looking at slightly larger units. Even if that means waiting to afford them. They will learn from the mistakes of those selling now.

Keep in mind there is a lot going on with respect to United States, which could impact all of this. These are my perdictions. Thoughts?

Underground Condo Parking In Ottawa

As I write this, the weather channel is predicting almost 24 hours of straight snowfall with 25-35cm of snow. Last week we had the record 52 cm which fell in just over a 24 hour period. Yuck. This is that time of year when those who have underground heated parking are very happy - just jump into a warm car, with no snow to remove, or ice to scrape off.  

The Basics

Most apartment style condo buildings have at least one level of underground parking in Ottawa while typically town house or up/down split style condos, have outdoor surface parking spots. The number of spots each developer must build will mostly depend on the zoning. Most spots are a standard width, and can fit a standard car (but not all buildings are the same - more on this later).

The parking garage typically has access to the main elevators (older buildings might have a separate elevator), along with some of the storage locker rooms and bicycle rooms or area. They typically are heated and ventilated. 

The Cost

When looking at pre-construction the price of a parking spot will first depend on the type of condominium (townhouse or highrise). For example - Valecraft Homes is including one outdoor parking spot for free with the unit purchase at Woodroffe Lofts and a second spot can be purchased for $10,000. Compared to Claridge who is offering an underground parking spot at an additional cost of $35,000 per space at Claridge Icon. 

Next, the cost might rise depending on location within the parking garage. Some builders will offer the premium spaces on level 1 for $5-15,000 more per space - on top of the $35,000. Not every builder does this, some save the premium spots for the large or penthouse units.

Keep in mind, there is also a monthly cost in addition to the purchase price. Since your percentage of ownership goes up in the building, your condo fees will rise as well. Some pre-construction buildings will project an additional $35-45 per month, while parking spots in some re-sale buildings can add $60-90 per month to your condo fee.

While no developer will share the true cost to build a spot, we have always been told it was more than they typically charged, up to almost double to cost - depending on how many levels below ground they need to go. Obviously outdoor surface spots will be a fraction of the cost, since there is less involved in the construction. Zoning requires a certain amount of spots be built per unit. It can range from 0.5 to 0.7 parking spots per unit - or more further outside the downtown core.

Restrictions

Keep in mind that not every unit is able to purchase parking when buying pre-construction.  Since the builder will build as few spots as possible, they will restrict which units can or can not purchase a spot. Typically this restriction falls on the smallest units. Assuming that the smaller unit is less likely to have a vehicle, compared to the large units with multiple residents who might require two etc.  Most builders will have a list for when larger units opt out of the spot, to allow the smaller unit owners the chance to purchase. However, when the building is handed over to the owners, you are then able to purchase a spot from another owner. 

Differences

Obviously not every building is the same, and often these differences can be found underground. Some buildings include visitor parking - The East Market (180 York, 383 Cumberland, 179 George) shares 23 overnight or long term visitor parking spots and 12 short term spots. Builders started including spots for car share services such as VRTUCAR which allows the owner to have 24 hour access to a shared vehicle - without the cost of gas, insurance, and maintenance. Great if you walk to work and never use your car. If you are willing to spend extra, you can even find Valet parking! Windmill's The Eddy features "puzzle parking" system which mechanically parks your car for you. This allows the developer to have more spaces and lower the overall cost. 

No parking space is the same, some have posts or walls on each side, some have plumbing or ventilation equipmenthanging down. This is why it is important to choose your spot carefully, or atleast see it in person if possible. Many owners with larger vehicles (pickup truck or large SUV's) need to make sure they can even enter the garage! Always check it out!

Buying and Selling Parking

While not every building is the same (consult your lawyer), typically each unit (condo, locker, and parking) are all separate. Each one has a separate Property Information Number or PIN which allows you to buy and sell them / they are not fixed to that certain condo. We regularly will list parking spots and even lockers apart from the condo unit on the MLS. Depending on the building, the unit, and the selling strategy. Since it is re-sale, the price is negotiable - however remember that you can't just add the cost on your mortgage, you would need to pay cash. Typically we see spots selling for $24-35,000 depending on the building, location of the spot, and demand for parking. Lockers will typically sell anywhere from $4-7,000 per. 

That small square painted on the ground - Its never just as simple as it might seem. 

Questions about parking? Thinking of buying pre-construction or a condo in Ottawa? I would love to help you out. 

What's in my condo's concrete floor?

Construction Photo from Richcraft of the 16th Floor of The Bowery on January 28th!

Often it is easy to forget how much work is involved in the construction of a building, and how exactly the buildings are built. Here is a quick example of the construction process for the concrete slabs (or floor) of a concrete highrise condominium. These are all from The Bowery and give you a great sense of what could be in your floor and ceiling.

The main "squares" or woven material is the steel rebar or rod's which provide the strength and woven together throughout every area. Once that is complete all of the tubing and conduits are run for each unit. The red is hot water, blue is cold water, and the grey is electrical along with "other" cables such as fire, audio/visual etc. Some builders run extra to different rooms since it is nearly impossible after the concrete is set.

The rebar (steel rod's) sticking up are to connect vertical concrete walls and columns that support the floor above. The photo below, shows a finished slab that is curing (drying). It gives you a better idea of a more finished product - you can see the vertical rebar for support columns/walls, and the plumbing and other conduits.

Fact - Most concrete subfloors are between 7-10 inches thick, which doesn't include any flooring or subflooring - just the concrete! 

Do I Need A Concierge In My Condo Building?

One of the first impressions that you will have as a buyer is often when you enter the lobby and are greeted by the concierge. Big smile and a friendly "hello" go a long way. However not all condo buildings in Ottawa have someone sitting in the lobby. In fact there are only a couple buildings in Ottawa that have a true concierge. Those buildings that have someone in the lobby, typically employ security guards who also handle resident requests (move-in's, packages, etc.).

Up until recently, having someone at the front lobby was a big bonus for a number of reasons: 
- Ensure security, and are able to see who is coming and going, plus keep an eye on the common area's.
- Handle move-ins and elevator/loading areas.
- Pass keys or assist with entry for cleaners or repair persons. 
- Booking or reserving common area's.
- Receive packages and oversized mail/deliveries. 

The biggest one for me aside from providing the extra bit of security, was helping receive packages and deliveries. Online shopping is on the rise and having to track down a parcel after it has been "attempted" to be delivered is a huge pain. 

Enter Canada Post!

The photo on the right is in the lobby for 205 Bolton (Sussex Square) which is one of the downtown buildings that you will find the Canada Post Parcel Box. This now allows them to securely leave oversized boxes and packages, without making you head to the nearest pickup location! 

The mail person leaves a notice in your mailbox along with the key for the specific box that contains your package. Then once retrieved just drop the key back in the slot, and voila!

Obviously, the parcel box does not say Hi, or it wont hold the door when you have your hands full, but it's a start! You can find the boxes in a number of buildings across Ottawa, typically next to the mail room.

As a buyer, do you feel that you need a concierge? 

Truth about Barbecues on Condo Balconies in Ottawa

The one thing I can count on when showing units, is being asked if the building allows owners/renters to operate a barbecue on the balcony. Usually here in Ottawa, the answer is no. With about 90% of the high rise buildings across the city having a rule, bylaw, or ban, on non electric BBQ's.

Most clients, owners in the building, and believe it or not, even other professionals, believe that it is the city or the builder that has created a by-law against it. People have suggested to me that it is because of the smoke from the barbecue, and how it would draft into another unit, or that the architect didn't follow local building code. I have heard many different "ideas" as to why, but the true reason is actually quite simple. And no, there is not a municipal bylaw that restricts the use of barbeques on balconies here in the city of Ottawa.

Here is an example from 200 Besserer Rules and Regulations (note this would only permit electric barbecues on PH unit terraces and balconies):

5. (d) No barbecues may be operated on any part of the common elements, including any part designated to be for exclusive use of a unit owner, including balconies, terraces and patios except for electric barbecues on the balconies attached to each dwelling unit on the upper penthouse floor in the building.

Here is an example from the 234 Rideau "Welcome Book":

- Barbecues on balconies must be electric.
- Charcoal and Propane BBQ's are prohibited.

Typically they are not allowed, because the TSSA or Technical Standards and Safety Authority has set rules in place that the condo corporation cant properly enforce. This means that for the condo board, its easier to lay a blanket rule than risk having the rule broken and being fined. 

Which rule?

• propane cylinders are to be transported in a service elevator or, when there are no service elevators, the person must use the passenger elevator alone to transport the cylinder

How to get around it?

A few builders have listened, and have made BBQ's available on the balconies. To get around the by-laws, they install natural gas lines to the stoves and to the balconies. Some charge a few thousand extra for the upgrade, but something I would gladly pay. Other options are having an electric BBQ or by having a shared natural BBQ in a common area.

At the end of the day, if having a barbecue on your balcony is important to you, tell your lawyer to look into the status certificate and find out if they are allowed. Looking for a condo and want to make sure it has a BBQ? Lets chat, I would love to help out.

The Deposit - What, When, and How Much?

Question: What is the deposit? How much do I need for a deposit when buying a condo in Ottawa? When do I need to provide it?

Keep in mind, this is for a resale condominium in Ottawa. If you are looking for pre-construction deposit information - CLICK HERE. Also, this is not referring to your downpayment - sometimes first time buyers will get these two terms mixed up.

What is the deposit? The deposit is an amount negotiated in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale that binds the buyer to the contract, and acts as consideration for the deal. (Consideration is the legal term for the deposit, and without consideration the contract is non-binding in common law). The deposit is thought of to be as "a sign of good faith", which keeps the buyer from walking away from the deal at any time, and provide the rest of the funds to close on closing day. It can show a seller who is considering an offer, that the buyer has cash on hand, and is willing to tie it up until close.

How much do I need? The deposit amount varies per property/deal/market. Here in Ottawa, you can expect anywhere from one percent of the sale price and up. Typically there is not much weight behind having a larger deposit for the buyer, however during multiple offer scenarios the higher deposit amount can help. Often for properties in the downtown core, you will see $3,000 to $5,000 for a deposit amount on a $250,000 to $350,000 purchase. Keep in mind, outside of the city it is typical to see deposit amounts of $1,000 or even $500 on the same purchase price. Head over to Toronto, and you can expect FIVE percent of the purchase price! 

When do I need to provide the deposit? When the Agreement of Purchase and Sale is written, typically we use the "upon acceptance" wording in regards to time to provide the deposit cheque to the other agent. This means the buyer has to provide a cheque (can be personal, certified, or bank draft, wire transfer, etc) for the funds within 24 hours of acceptance. This is standard, however it can be written differently depending on the scenario.

What happens to the deposit funds? Once we provide the cheque to the other side, it gets deposited in the seller's real estate brokerages trust account (unless otherwise specified) and is held until closing when the seller's lawyer will direct the brokerage with use of the funds (typically to pay commissions).

What happens to the deposit if the deal does not come together? Many people seem to think that if the seller walks away from a deal, then the seller automatically gets to keep the deposit money. This is far from the truth! Under section 27 of the Real Estate Business Brokers Act, a real estate brokerage is not allowed to release any deposit from their trust account without either a Mutual release signed by both the buyer AND seller, or a court order. So if the buyer walks away, the money remains in trust and litigation will commence until an agreement is made.

Thinking of buying your first property? I would love to chat and answer any questions that you have about real estate here in Ottawa. Fill out the form below!

Condo Selling - 10 Tips For Selling Your Ottawa Condo

My top 10 tips for selling your Ottawa condo

Preparing your condo for sale should be done іn a prearranged and structured manner. Here are my top 10 ways to do so, in no particular order, as some might be more or equally important to your situation.

1: DE-CLUTTER - First and foremost. Creating the illusion of more space is a magical thing. An impression of a cluttered, messy space is certainly not. An open, inviting space is and will be more accepted than a messy, bogged down one. Put stuff away! This includes everything from remote controls, to laundry, to dishes, to movies, and video games. Also, some people think they can just toss everything into their closets as a quick fix. NOPE! If it seems like your closets are jam packed and ready to explode, the potential buyer will come up with an image of their belongings not fitting either. The main word would be purge. If you haven't worn it in a year, you don't need it. This is especially true for here in Ottawa where we have such different seasons, it helps to completely remove the off season items that are not needed. Summer shoes or winter boots, coats, hats, mits etc. This will really help free up some space!

2: DE-PERSONALIZE - Yes, everyone is impressed with your gleaming certificates plastered all over the walls, but when you're trying to sell, lose them. This goes for personal/family pictures, religious objects and so on. Potential buyers are already trying to get in the picture mindset of living there, so try and make it as easy as possible for this to occur. Someone might not like your property because of your tastes, beliefs or opinions, believe me - I have seen stranger things happen. Slowly comb through your condo and try to eliminate anything that is overly characteristic or personal.

3: AROMA - I'm sure you've read loads of articles and tips about baking cookies before an open house or showing. That is great, but do not over do it too much. Granted fresh cookies and febreeze does smell better than an avoided bathroom and four day old dishes, but we don't want the smell to be too overpowering upon entering. Remember, there are people with all kinds of allergies. Consider investing in a couple of soft tone glade plug-ins or candles. A nice, soothing, calm and continuous aroma will ease the minds of buyers and assist them in sticking around for a while.

4: FІRЅТ IMPRESSIONS - I figured I would follow aroma with this category. A great first impression is crucial in captivating a buyers interest. From a large reflective mirror, to a stunning piece of art, to a simple and open clear sight line of the view, use what you can to create a quick wow factor. This of where your eyes would shift upon entrance. Work on overselling the first impression and the buyers will be craving the full, interrupted tour. But remember, first impressions do start before actually entering the condo. Make sure your property management company is on the ball with providing a clean, inviting atmosphere.

5: STAGING - Vacant condo? If you are sitting on a vacant Ottawa condo, staging is something to think about. There is nothing more bland and unappealing than a lonely, vacant condo. Consider hiring a staging consultant to walk through the house. Remember, staging creates a lifestyle and existence that buyers crave and ultimately desire. For a fairly affordable monthly cost you could have an exquisite looking suite and really push for an offer. Staged condos do statistically sell faster than vacant suites so check out your options and use your resources. 

6: COLOR/TONES - Tone down the color. Eliminate any strong, dark, or personalized walls. You might like the bright red feature wall in the living area, but it will scare away a potential buyer. Dark colors actually squeeze the visibility out of the space and make it appear smaller. The key word is neutral. If you have to hire someone to come in and repaint the majority of your space, it will be worth it. Try a cool, modern and refreshing colour to liven up the area but consider how it will look with your accessories, art, etc. Don't go out and break the bank finding something nice that you adore, as the new buyer might have plans to paint over it again once they move in. Be resourceful yet practical.

7: AMBIANCE - Create an atmosphere that revolves around your target market. Part of our marketing is to walk through potential buyers and this will help when you are trying to style your condo. Create аn atmosphere that revolves аrоund уоur target market. Plug іn thе calming water fountain, flick оn thе fireplace and hit play on thе stereo. Remember whо уоu аrе trуіng tо sell tо thоugh. Fоr а stylish, urban condo set thе mood wіth sоmе upbeat house music. Fоr а quaint, large space utilize thе fireplace аs а relaxing focal point. Usе уоur discretion аnd channel thе energy оf thе space intelligently. Generate а fitting mood аnd еvеrуоnе will feel pleasant аnd аt hоmе whіlе viewing.

8: FOOD/TREATS - Wаnt people tо stick аrоund fоr longer? Graciously leave а snack tray оr sоmе sort оf offering fоr thе individual(s) interested іn уоur hоmе. Bottled water іs а great touch аnd а personal favorite. Тhеу mіght sее 3-5 properties thаt day, but thаt water shоuld lаst fоr а whіlе, аnd thеу will remember thаt іt wаs frоm уоu! Cookies, mints, gum, wrapped chocolate, еtс... аnуthіng аlоng thеsе lines іs а nice, thoughtful touch. Rеаllу wаnt thе wow factor? Gеt creative аnd consider sоmеthіng lіkе а catered open house!

9: SANS SMOKE/PETS - Тhіs category mау nоt apply tо еvеrуоnе, but іt іs tremendously іmроrtаnt tо сеrtаіn households. Іf уоu smoke, tаkе іt outside...and nоt lean оut thе window type оutsіdе, аll thе wау. Smoke іs sоmеthіng thаt ultimately lives іn уоur walls аnd will constantly bе lurking аrоund. Buyers definitely dо nоt wаnt thіs. Buyers wаnt tо thіnk thіs hоmе іs thеіr fresh start, nоt а second hand ashtray. Іf роssіblе, pets shоuld bе removed fоr showings аnd аlwауs fоr open houses. Аs buyers, thе lаst thing wе wаnt tо sее аrе stains оn thе carpet, pet hair, and/or а big litter box staring bасk аt us. Yоur pet іs а member оf thе family...remove thеm fоr showings аnd сеrtаіnlу clean uр аftеr thеm. Тhе main thing hеrе іs thаt уоu dо nоt wаnt а questionable issue іn thе bасk оf thе buyer's minds.

10: FENG SHUI - Аn intriguing ancient Chinese art form developed mаnу years ago. Feng Shui іs а knowledge whісh reveals hоw tо balance energies іn а space tо bring health, positivity аnd good fortune fоr thе individuals living thеrе. Тhеrе аrе nіnе quadrants thаt define dіffеrеnt areas іn уоur hоmе аnd life. Іf you're lооkіng fоr mоrе money, work оn уоur prosperity corner. Іf you're lооkіng tо improve уоur relationships thеn work оn altering thаt corner. Тhе list gоеs оn. Ву accepting Feng Shui іntо уоur life аt hоmе, уоu will create а natural flow аnd energy іntо аnу space. Еvеr hаd а good оr bad feeling uроn entering а property? Тhіs mау bе whу! Еvеn іf you're nоt selling, trу dіffеrеnt aspects оf Fung Shui іn уоur personal life...the rеsults соuld astonish you!

Thinking of making a move? I would love to help... Click on the button and lets start talking.

CLICK HERE to Contact Matt Richling About Selling

Thinking of Selling

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Written by Matt Richling

Matt is a licensed salesperson at RE/MAX Metro City Realty in Ottawa, Canada. Matt loves helping sellers and buyers find the perfect home that fits their lifestyle. 

Electronic Signatures Starting July 1st!

Word starting circulating late last night amongst the realtor crowd across Ontario that the wait for electronic signatures is finally over! After years of being told that electronic signatures were "coming soon" by different levels of government, starting July 1st we will be able to sign The Agreement Of Purchase And Sale (the main document to sell a property) digitally. No more scanning, no more driving around at a late hour or rushing for a last minute signature, no more faxing (well that was a given), no impossible to read documents from sending back and forth. 

I have been using electronic signatures for other documents (listing agreements, price reductions, etc) but now the full transaction could be signed digitally. Almost every client who has used this, prefers it. Saving the client time, and ensures no missed signatures or initials. As the client, you can read, review, and sign the document at your pace.

Real Estate 2.0 is here!