Congratulations On The Engagement! Now What?

First off - Congratulations on the engagement! Once the champagne wears off and the dust settles, you start to think about what comes next. Obviously the wedding will take over - but what about where you will live? Need something bigger? More closet space?

What about the space you currently have - how much will it sell for? Could you rent it? At this point you have so many options, you need to narrow down what would work best for you both!

Thinking about buying - you want a house? three or four bedrooms? babies?? schools?

While this might all seem overwhelming - I am here to help you both navigate through it. I have been helping clients like you for almost 10 years and am focused on selling downtown condos and helping buyers find exactly what would make sense for the next stage! 

I would love to chat! Fill out the form below and we will get started.
-Matt Richling

“When it comes to buying/selling/renting you’ve found the right place. My girlfriend and I worked with Matt Richling to find the perfect condo in the right neighbourhood. I work in software at Shopify and she is finishing up her residency through OttawaU at the Civic Hospital. We were able to find a condo that was walking distance for both of us and had enough space. Matt was delightful to work with and helped throughout the entire process, I couldn’t have imagined doing it without him.”

— Taylor and Brenda

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SOHO Champagne - Sales Promotion

Hoping to jumpstart sales of the last few units as we move into the fall market, SOHO Champagne is now offering a last minute promotion for buyers. Aside from lowering the deposit amount to $10,000, they are also offering up to $50,000 cash back on closing (depending on the unit), no-condo fees for one year, and possible quick occupancy on remaining units. The promotion is being advertised as ending October 1st, so for those interested, better move fast. Currently there are approximately only 28 units left of the 200 in the building, ranging from 535sqft 1bedroom up to a 1,525sqft two bedroom with terrace.

SOHO Champagne is located at 111 Champagne Avenue South, just steps from Preston Street. This is Mastercraft Starwood's third SOHO building in the city, after SOHO Lisgar and SOHO Parkway. Designed by Architect Roderick Lahey Architect Inc, and interior designer is Gluckstein Design. The building now has occupancy and the 5 star amenities are almost completed.

For more information on the remaining units at SOHO Champagne or about pre-construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below - I would love to help!

SOBA - Construction Underway!

**For more information about SoBa Condos, check out the dedicated section with regularly updated construction and sales information. CLICK HERE to view.**

After a very quiet spring and summer, construction has officially started on Catherine street for SoBa condos. Being built by Brad Lamb of Lamb Developments (Toronto), this is the second building in Ottawa by the "King of Condos", first being Gotham located on Lyon.

We have been told that the construction crew is currently digging the Slurry Wall, which should last about 100 days for a project of this size. Then the main excavation is able to begin. A building permit was issued on August 27th 2015 to Doran Construction for a partial permit for excavation and shoring and part foundation only. Construction is expected to take two years and be completed in 2017.

Here is the construction site as of this morning - a screen shot from the live youtube camera of "Jimmy Joners" - Click here to view.

Interested in learning more about SoBa condos or downtown condos? I would love to chat - fill out the form below or email me matt@mattrichling.com

Is The Fall A Good Time To Sell My Ottawa Condo?

NOTE: I don't mention the possibility of price changes. I don't have a crystal ball and not able to tell the future. Maybe prices will rise, maybe prices will fall. This article leaves price factors out of the equation.

Yellow school busses, #PSL, and football are all back which can only mean summer is almost over. This time of year we are finding people coming back home from vacation, back to work, and noticing that they would like to make a move before winter (aka the deep freeze).

A common question we hear around this time is from those who are thinking of selling, but are wondering if the fall is a good time to sell. Every person's situation is different, but generally the answer is yes. Typically the busiest time of the year is the spring/early summer, followed by the fall. This is when we see the most activity of people buying and making a move - more buyers!

Should I wait till the spring to sell my condo?
Some ask if it is worth it to wait till the spring to sell their condo. Depends, can you wait? (some can't - surprise baby (nine months isn't a surprise but you get the idea), divorce, tenant vacated...etc. If you have the time to wait use it wisely. Use this time to prepare the condo to show its best. Get an outside perspective of what is holding the unit back from showing a 10 out of 10. Are the floors scratched up, need a coat of paint? Maybe it is worth the cost to repair - maybe it is not. Typically people forget that staging take a week or more to arrange and have set up, all time that should use to plan.

Who is the buyer?
When I work with clients to list a condo for sale, I always sit and figure out who the potential buyer(s) will be. Is this an investment property, mature couple, young professional, etc. When you are looking at selling, think about that buyers life... Typically it is different than the standard family with two kids, so keep in mind the condo buyer isn't subjected to back to school season, and December holidays. While we are still impacted by weather (snow, cold, rain, etc) in Ottawa condo land, we typically still have buyers looking throughout the winter. Our buyers are not as affected by weather as much - "There is No snow in condo land!". Take a look at your life to get a sense of the possible buyer - do you travel during the summer, or visit family around holidays? Long weekends are usually very busy, or very slow - depending on the time of year! Use this to plan your dates!

SELL IT NOW!
For those who want to sell now a few things to keep in mind. While it is important to have the home prepared and showing as best as it can, it would depend on how long would it take to get there and how much effort you are willing to put in. You might only be willing to invest a certain amount of energy and time to getting it show ready. Don't waste time. If you are going to list now, don't waste a month - buyers are out looking now. Get it ready and get it listed.

So... Fall?
There is no clear answer since everyone is in a different situation. The fall is the second best time of the year to sell. So if you don't/can't/wont't wait another seven months - then give me a call and let's get things started. If you are thinking of waiting, or need a better idea - let's chat. I can help you decide what might be best, or what you are looking at. 

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? 

The Bowery Promo Event

New promo has just announced directly from Richcraft for anyone who purchases The Bowery. Buyers have the choice between no condo fees for one year, free storage locker, upgraded designer package, or hardwood in the bedroom.

While you might have a preference on which you would prefer, it will depend on the size of the unit to decide which option would be the best option. No condo fees for one year is typically a rebate or discount off purchase price. Easily calculated for the size of the unit - $0.36sqft 800sqft = $3456/year or 400sqft = $1728/year. Storage lockers are priced around $3,000. Then the designer package and hardwood depend on the unit. 

Questions about the building, units, or purchasing pre-construction condos in Ottawa? I would love to chat - fill out the form below or email directly Matt@MattRichling.com.

Domicile's Corners On Main - Grand Opening and Pricing

Domicile has announced the date for its highly anticipated - The Corners On Main, which will be located on Main Street. Read all about it HERE. 

For those looking to get first crack at available units, Saturday August 8th at 12noon, at the Kavanaugh Sales Centre located at 86 Beechwood Avenue. Floor plans and more details will be released then.

Domicile has released the price sheet (see below) for the available units and one floor plan for "The Centennial" (935sqft, two bedroom, one and a half bathroom, plus terrace). 

One bedrooms range from $261,600 for the Glenora (554sqft) to $389,200 for the Hazel (850sqft). Two bedrooms range from $411,100 for the Marlowe (930sqft) up to $490,900 for the Brantwood (1105sqft). "Two bedrooms plus" range up to $594,900 for the Merritt (1431sqft with terrace). Parking is an extra $33,500 but not available for the "Pied a Terre" or studio units. Domicile is estimating condo fees at 42 cents per square foot, and $33 per month per parking space.

For more information on condos for sale in Ottawa, or assistance with purchasing pre-construction condos - Fill out the form below! 

CLICK TO CONTACT

Domicile Corners On Main

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University Of Ottawa Med School Shuttle Service

One thing that incoming med students and those coming for an elective quickly learn is that the main med school campus "Roger Guindon Hall" is detached from the main university campus. While not far, this distance becomes a factor when deciding housing and where to live. Most med students are also not aware about the shuttle service that the university has set up to get students and employees around to the different sites. 

For the 2015-2016 academic year, starting September 8th 2015 till April 29th 2016 the shuttle leaves both main campus and Roger Guidon Hall every 30 minutes from 7:30am till 4:30pm Monday to Friday. On Monday to Thursday it is extended from 5pm to 10pm leaving every hour.

Things to note:

- The shuttle leaves from Main Campus, stops at 200 Lees, St. Pauls on Main Street, and then stops at Roger Guindon Hall (RGN). 
- The shuttle does not run on weekends, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Family Dat, Good Friday, Easter Monday, OR from December 22nd 2015 to January 1st, 2016.
- During the first few weeks of September the shuttle between Main Campus and Roger Guindon Hall may sometimes fill to its limit and you may be required to wait for the next bus (usually 30 minutes later). This is especially true from 8:00-9:30 and 12:00-14:00. If you would like to use your U-Pass with public transit instead, please use the Travel Planner at www.octranspo.com to choose the most convenient route.

CLICK HERE for an updated version of this information from the University of Ottawa. See the map below for the map version of the stops.

Should I Sell My Condo With A Tenant?

This is a pretty common scenario that I am seeing right now here in Ottawa. An owner wants to sell their condo, but has a tenant inside that has a number of months left on the lease. The owner is trying to figure out the best thing to do. Keep in mind I am going to answer this quite generally - every scenario and property is different (things like how the unit shows, the tenant, list price, area, etc will all come into play).

First thing I would ask is - Who is the potential buyer for the condo? Owner, Investor, etc? Most likely it is going to be an owner looking to occupy the unit. Depending on the price/unit, the majority of buyers we are seeing are not investors looking to rent out the unit, but owners looking to move into the unit. That being said, most people are not willing or able to buy a place, pay the mortgage (the costs will not cover the rent) and pay to live somewhere else, until the place is vacant. As a buyer, the risk you are taking with the tenant is quite high (yes, you can vet the tenant and verify everything, but the risk is still there). 

Why not an investor? Well, there is nothing certain in real estate, so knowing my luck the next buyer will be an investor - BUT generally at these prices, resale units do not cash flow under standard financing terms. I have units that cash flow (after ALL expenses) $600 month, on a $250,000-$260,000 purchase price - so compare to the one beds that list around the same price, you would be loosing money every month.

Back to the original question... Put yourself in the shoes of the buyer and ask yourself - Would I rather be provided vacant occupancy on closing, or have to worry about kicking out (or waiting for the lease to end) some tenant? Especially when there are other options to buy that could be currently vacant. 

Most downtown Ottawa condo buyers are looking for 30-60 day closing periods. So typically once the tenant gives the 60 days notice, then it starts to make sense to list the condo for sale. Since you will be able to give a reasonable time for the tenant to have vacated. More than two months notice and 

Tenant just gave me her 60 day notice to leave! Now what?

This is when I get to work - how does it show? If it shows badly would it make sense to wait until they leave, paint, stage, and list it, or sell right now? Is the tenant cooperative? I value communication as one of the most important aspects of my job. Communication with the owner, communication with the other agent, and obviously communication with the tenant. If the tenant is unhappy, they won't give two shits about how the unit looks for a showing, and will ensure that 24 hours notice for every showing. When you are selling with a tenant, you want the tenant to be part of the team and on good terms. Right from the start, we make sure that the interactions with the tenant are positive, honest, and open. We need their help to sell!

There is more than two months left, what are my options?

If you still have more than two months remaining on the lease, obviously you can still list the unit for sale, but finding an interested buyer will become much harder. Keep in mind there is always negotiations with the tenant. While you can't kick a tenant out during a lease, they are not able to leave early - UNLESS you both agree. What is $1,000, the cost of movers, or sometimes even just a case of beer in the grand scheme of things? While you need to make sure that the timing is right - last thing you want is to let the tenant out of the lease, and then the deal falls apart and you have a vacant unit and no buyer. Sometimes buyers love a certain building and would consider moving to another unit within! This is all part of that communication with the tenant, and seeing what options you have as the landlord.

Thinking of selling your investment condo in Ottawa? I would love to chat more. You can reach me at matt@mattrichling.com or fill out the form below.

2015 Residency Moves Wrapping Up - Med School Starting

With just over a week before residency starts, almost all of the incoming R1's are now moved in, or flying home (from summer vacation) to move this weekend. What a crazy spring it has been, I was lucky enough to help over two dozen incoming residents here in Ottawa, plus another 49 across Canada. 

Across Canada? Yes, I can help match you with an agent to assist you no matter where you matched. East coast to West coast and for buying and for renting. These colleagues were specifically chosen because they understand the process of residency and have helped med students or residents regularly - plus are top producing agents in their location.

Now with September getting closer, the focus moves to medical students and their families who try and navigate the options for housing across the city. Four years of renting can be a lot of money (do the math $1600 month / 4 years = $76,800) placed in some landlords pocket. More if the student does residency here in Ottawa! But does buying make sense? Should I buy?

OR it could become a rental property if the student moves elsewhere. Properties in the proximity of the campus have some of the best occupancy rates in the city. Many families choose to use this property or downpayment as a gift to the student. 

Moving to Ottawa and looking at your options for housing during med school or residency? I would love to chat. Fill out the form below, or contact me directly Matt@MattRichling.com.

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.

Military - DND Move to Nortel Campus - Delayed!

Originally, DND employees were supposed to start moving into the buildings at the old Nortel Campus, 3500 Carling Avenue site by the end of this year. Now that delay could be at least nine more months, pushing to the middle and end of 2016.

Reports and news articles claim it is due to a a structural analysis that was conducted in November that revealed the seriousness of the problems with the outside walls for the four buildings. All of the seals on the windows have failed, and the frames that support the glass are weak, according to the report.

Eventually, 8,500 military and civilian employees will move to the new location on Carling road, which is to be completed by 2020. Moving a large number of employees from across Ottawa, to west-Ottawa.

For those who are transferred into Ottawa, the move certainly comes into play when looking where to live. 

Relocating here to Ottawa? I would love to help. Check out the full military relocation area for more information, or fill out the form below.

The Slater - Promo Prices + Broker Event

The Slater - a 21 Storey tower that is mixed condos and a boutique hotel, at 199 Slater Street just off of Bank St. Developed by Broccolini the project is currently at around 80% sold out. Units range from 408sqft up to 1929sqft. "Inspired by the clean, square lines of the mid-century towers that surround it, it marries a hip 1950s aesthetic with a thoroughly modern sensibility. Minimalist interiors by II by IV are cool, classic and understated. The Slater is beautiful, sleek – and eternally chic. "

Last week I was invited to a limited brokers lunch where Broccolini walked through the project status, what is left for sale, a new promo being offered and a sneak peak for their next downtown space. Overall the project has seen good success, and a few units still remain. The promotions are not being advertised so if you are interested, contact me.

If you are interested in The Slater, and learning more about current promotions that are being offered, contact Matt Richling at Matt@MattRichling.com or by filling out the form below.

The Eddy - First Look Inside

Here is a first look inside of Windmill Developments newest building, The Eddy. Located at 1000 Wellington Street West in Hintonburg, The Eddy is a six storey, 52 unit building with units ranging from 675 sqft to 1079 sqft. Units have been occupied and all purchased units closed on by the owners/handed over from the builder. 

These photos are of the 623sqft Penthouse Albany model, which is a one bedroom one bathroom, north facing above Suzy Q and the Taco lot. The unit is currently for sale, listed at $342,500 with a monthly condo fee of $260 which covers the heat, water, building insurance, property management, and etc. For more information on the unit for sale, contact my colleague Anthony Donnelly (salesperson at RE/MAX Metro City Realty Ltd) at 613-866-1555 or click HERE.

Also get a full 3D walkthrough of the unit CLICKING HERE - warning it is pretty image heavy and takes a bit to load, but worth checking out. 

As you can see, exposed concrete ceiling and walls, exposed ductwork, high quality finishes, and quartz counters are some of the interior finishes. Building features puzzle parking system, rooftop terrace, hot tub, bbq area, and bike storage. Aiming for LEED Platinum.

Interested in The Eddy? I would love to chat.

The Eddy - Half Price Parking For Remaining 8 Units

Exterior shot of Windmill Developments project The Eddy 

In order to help sell the remaining units of The Eddy, Windmill Developments has reduced parking fee in half to $16,000. Only eight of the 52 units currently remain available, and range from $339,000 for The Magee which is a 675sqft one bedroom, up to $499,560 for The Reid a 1060sqft two bedroom (see floorplan below). Condo fees are at $0.35 per sqft per month.

The Eddy was recently featured on CTV news for having the first "puzzle parking system" in Ottawa. Click Here to watch the news clip.

For more information on the remaining units at The Eddy, or Windmill Developments other downtown projects, fill out the form below.

The Reid Floorplan at The Eddy by Windmill Developments.

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!

The Corners On Main - Coming This Fall

Yesterday Domicile posted this on Instagram - appears the brochures ready to go!

Domicile Developments posted the above photo on Instagram yesterday which suggests that The Corners On Main is coming very soon. While no official dates have been announced we do know that it will be launched in 2015 and heard a rumour it will be sometime in the fall.

Located on Main Street between Oblate and Springhurst, and designed by Roderick Lahey Architect inc. Two six storey buildings, each with 70 residential units, plus roof top terraces, and amenities plus quality that you would expect from Domicile. Expected completion date of Fall/Winter of 2017. 

Interested in learning more? Fill out the form below to contact Matt Richling about The Corners On Main.

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!

Tribeca Sales Update

Claridge Homes latest development in Centretown, Tribeca, is a "world-class complex in a world-class neighbourhood"(as per the sales website). A three phase project, consisting of two highrise towers connected by the podium that also features the third phase consisting of low rise loft units. 

Phase One is located at 179 Metcalfe, and has seen occupancy of the units and is now fully registered. They are currently 95% sold and available units range from $343,00 for a 753 sqft 1bed + Den, to $463,000 for a 971 sqft 2bed unit with 95 sqft terrace. Parking is an additional $35,000 per spot. Occupancy on these units can be quite fast, however finishes and upgrades have already been chosen. 

Phase Two is located at 40 Nepean St, and is currently at around 65% sold. You should be able to find the size and price point you are looking for with the remaining supply ranging from studio's up to larger 2 bedrooms.

Phase Three is about to be launched, but sounds pretty unique from the promotional material getting sent around.

The amenities for the project are quite exciting, featuring a full indoor salt water pool, kid splash pool, yoga studio, fitness room, private lounge, multimedia room, board room, four meeting rooms, two guest suites, concierge/security, visitor parking, Sobey's (Now Open!), and the nearly 7000sqft of landscaped terraces on the south side.

If you are interested in the Tribeca project, or would like more information on units that are currently for sale - contact Matt Richling (salesperson with RE/MAX Metro City Realty) by filling out the form below or by email Matt@MattRichling.com. 

CLICK TO GET MORE INFORMATION

Tribeca Sales Updates