One of the best parts about living in Edmonton is the many winter-themed activities, events and attractions that make it such a “cool” place to live. If you’re looking for a few fun, affordable, family-friendly events to add to your calendar this season, here are a few ideas:

1. Snowshoe and Stargaze

When: Saturdays, December through February 15th

Marvel at the starry night sky as you snowshoe your way around Elk Island – one of Canada’s many revered national parks and conservation reserves. This one-of-a-kind experience takes visitors on a short, guided snowshoe hike with interactive interpretation of the constellations above. Fireside snacks and refreshments are provided at no extra charge. 

2. Experience the Deep Freeze 

When:…

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The New Year is just around the corner, and with it comes some great news for Edmonton home buyers. Here are five reasons why now is the right time to purchase a new Edmonton home:

1. Record-Low Home Prices 

According to a recent report released by the Canadian Real Estate Association, Edmonton’s benchmark home price has now reached the ultra-affordable low of $316,200. Having fallen 8.29% over the last several years, homes are now being sold at prices not seen since the buyer’s market of 2013 – where the benchmark price was only slightly less at $314,500.

Home buyers interested in detached single-family dwellings and townhomes can expect to see some particularly substantial savings compared to last year, with average prices dropping over…

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Gross Debt Service and Total Debt Service ratios are the two primary calculations lenders use during the loan application process. Together, these ratios play an integral role in determining your ability to qualify for a mortgage and how much home you can afford.

Here’s what you need to know:

GDS Ratios

Your GDS ratio refers to the percentage of your annual income needed to cover monthly housing costs – specifically your mortgage payment (principal and interest) as well as taxes, condo fees (50%, if applicable) and heating. As per the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), this percentage should be no higher than 35% when applying for a mortgage loan. 

How to Calculate Your GDS Ratio:

Your GDS ratio is the sum of your monthly…

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While downsizing offers countless benefits (the chance to save money and pursue your retirement dreams, for example), making the move to a smaller home can be altogether overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are nine helpful tips to make your downsizing process easier:

1. Have a Plan

Reduce downsizing stress by planning ahead. Start by making a list of manageable goals with a commitment to stick to them – even if it’s as simple as tackling one drawer a day, over time, every little bit helps.

2. Start With the Obvious

Begin by clearing out the rooms you won’t have in your new home. Recreation or family rooms, additional bedrooms and bathrooms and home offices are all good places to start.

3. Practice the Rule of Three

…

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Think you might be ready to own your own home? Here are 8 ways to tell:

  1. You’re tired of paying someone else’s mortgage
  2. You long for freedom
  3. You’re down payment ready
  4. You’re in a good spot financially
  5. You’re ready to put down roots
  6. Your family is growing
  7. You’re not afraid of a little maintenance
  8. You’re comfortable with the home buying process

1. You’re Tired of Paying Someone Else’s Mortgage

While renting may have once been an affordable alternative to homeownership, you’ve come to realize it’s costing you more in the long run. Not only are you lining someone else’s pockets, but you’re denying yourself the opportunity to build wealth.

Why pay to improve someone else’s net worth when you could be boosting your…

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6 Reasons to Buy Your Home In a Bedroom Community Featured Image

Looking for affordable, amenity-friendly living with a small-town feel? A bedroom community may be exactly what you’ve been searching for! Neighbouring suburban towns and cities such as St. Albert, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Fort Saskatchewan, and many more, are seeing rapid increases in popularity thanks to the amazing benefits they have to offer.

Here are just a few of many great reasons to consider calling a bedroom community home:

1. Affordability

One of the first and best reasons to buy into a bedroom community is the home prices – and the potential to get more bang for your buck. For instance, say you’re in the market for a single-family home. Because prices in the surrounding areas can vary by (tens) of thousands of dollars (compared…

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Celebrate the season in Alberta’s famous “Winter City”. Here are just a few of the many fantastic holiday events Edmonton has to offer!

Curated. Holiday Market YEG

Curated’s Holiday Market is quickly becoming one of Edmonton’s favourite places to (Christmas) shop til’ you drop. The market features over 70 handmade vendors/curators (offering everything from art and jewelry to home décor and tasty treats), as well as live entertainment, on-site food trucks and prizes.

When: November 16th & 17th, 2019

St. Albert Indoor Christmas Market 

St. Albert’s Christmas Market is back for yet another season of great food, good fun and, of course, shopping! This year’s market will offer the homemade wares of over 75 vendors, every Saturday, starting…

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Of course, you can’t believe everything you hear, especially regarding REALTORS® and one of the most significant transactions of your life. In fact, when it comes to your Edmonton home purchase or sale, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction if you hope to save money, time and stress in the process.

Here are our top 4 REALTOR® myths exposed.

1. You’ll Save Money If You Sell On Your Own 

While it’s true you COULD save by opting to sell your home without the help of an Edmonton REALTOR®; it’s a pretty risky undertaking. Here are just a few of the many reasons why selling on your own may cost you more in the long run:

Market Knowledge – If you hope to sell fast and for top dollar, you need to have a keen understanding of…

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When it comes to placing an offer, financial unpreparedness won’t just cost you time and money – it may cost you the home of your dreams. Be ready ahead of time with the help of these four essential steps.

Step 1: Decide on a Down Payment  

Chances are, you already know you need to have a down payment ready before putting in an offer. Of course, HOW MUCH you’ll need to put down will depend on the following:

What is the Average Listing Price?

Your down payment amount will vary depending on the style of home you’re interested in. For instance, in Edmonton, the 5% minimum for a single-family home vs. a duplex can differ by thousands of dollars. 

Are You Willing to Pay Mortgage Insurance? 

Mortgage insurance allows home buyers to…

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After enlisting the help of an expert Edmonton REALTOR®, it’s time to get your home ready for potential buyers. Our essential home-showing list of do’s and don’ts will tell you everything you need to know.

Don’t: Put Off the Inspection 

Be sure to have an inspection before putting your home on the market. Not only will this give you the opportunity to fix any noticeable issues (i.e. damaged siding or leaky plumbing), but it will allow you to maintain (or boost) your home’s value at sale time.

Do: Sale-Friendly Renovations 

Depending on the condition of your home, a few changes can go a long way – and they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. A simple coat of paint and a few minor upgrades can make all the difference in selling your…

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