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Tuesday, August 8, 2023
What to know when you purchase your new Home
You’ve just unloaded the last box from the moving truck and the excitement of being in your new home is palpable, but what now? While you’ll no doubt want to kick your feet up and relax, it’s not over just yet, and there’s still a lot to do beyond unpacking. With some help from the experts, we’ve pulled together a checklist of the first things to do when you move into a new home.
Inspect your new space
u’ve likely already had a home inspection done during the sale process, but once you’re in your new home you should be doing your own inspection to make sure everything is in working order.
“Inspect the property thoroughly,” Richling stresses. “I often see new homeowners bring up issues days or weeks after closing day, which makes it much harder for the lawyers to argue if the damage happened before closing or after closing. Start outside, take a walk around the house, and inspect for any damages or issues that need to be addressed.
“Make sure you test all of the plugs, appliances, and lights, and don’t forget to check the floors, walls and ceilings.
If you’re in a house (as opposed to a condo), “familiarize yourself with the circuit breakers and shut off valves for water and gas,” Richling says. In the event of an emergency, knowing exactly where these are will save time and be crucial to limiting any damage. It’s also best practice to ensure all of the other occupants are aware of the locations too, in case you’re not home.
“I always suggest labeling everything so if there is a guest or family member they can also find them.
Don’t be afraid to hire a home inspector to conduct a post move-in walk-around, either.
Check your smoke detectors
Whether in a house or condo, checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be a high priority when you move into a new home.
“Generally speaking, the lifespan of a smoke detector is about seven or eight years.
If you’ve ever noticed smoke detectors are looking a little bit yellow in colour, that’s not an accident. Smoke detectors are made out of a type of plastic that will change colour over time, on purpose, and to tell you the smoke detector has expired and is requiring replacement.
Sweet proposes clients “take an existing [smoke detector] to the hardware store and see if you can swap it out for the identical one. Doing this will make the reinstall very easy because you can leave the base attached and just replace the main part of the smoke detector.”
Securing your home
Once you’re in your new home, you want it to feel safe. Considering simple tech upgrades, such as security systems and cameras, and perhaps keyless lock.
Changing the locks is strongly encouraged.
Depending on the type of change or upgrade, “it’s a relatively small cost for a tremendous increase in security and safety,” adds Sweet. “Some of these [technologies] can get a little bit expensive, but can be worth it, and many of them come with smart locks where you can actually re-key the lock yourself with a very simple process.”
While it’s not necessarily a security measure, Kee also suggests upgrading to a smart thermostat, which not only conveniently controls the temperature in your home, it can help you save on heating and cooling your home.
Getting comfortable in your condo
Moving into a condo will usually require less maintenance than a freehold home. However, there are still things you can do to help settle into your new place.
Actions to take in advance
"Getting your address changed is super important,” In fact you should do this well in advance. In some cases, it can take years for all of your mail to be properly moved over to your new address.
new homeowners give themselves sufficient time to get their home insurance set up well in advance. While most insurers won’t put insurance on a home more than 90 days out, it’s encouraged to use the 90-day window to get your home insurance organized.
Moving into a new home is overwhelming, no doubt, and it can be hard to know how to prioritize things. These are some starting points to help you feel at home in your new space. Don’t forget, we can help even after the deal closes! Reach out to them for support and ideas on what to focus on when moving in.
Jeff & Sandy Johnson
Realty Executives Focus
780-699-5019
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
50 Starling Way, Fort Saskatchewan $584,900
Quick Possession, Located in desirable South Fort Meadows sits this gorgeous brand new 2285 square feet high end home. Large great room with 17’ ceiling and decretive wall electric fireplace. Large dinette to accommodate any sized table. Mud room with shelving leads to walk through pantry to functional kitchen. Double french doors to main floor den. Three bedrooms up. Separate upper level centrally located laundry room. Master has coffered ceiling, five piece ensuite and walk in closet. Huge bonus room also with coffered ceiling. 26’.10 deep garage with floor drain. 9.6’ x 15’ rear deck. All blinds included and speaker system.
Jeff Johnson 780-699-5018
Realty Executives Focus
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
NEW LISTING 47, 8602 SOUTHFORT DR.
FORT SASKATCHEWAN $414,500
Southfort Villia adult community. Fully Finished bungalow with attached garage. Relax on the front veranda with the view of the pond. Spacious front foyer leading you to the great room with vaulted ceilings featuring gas fireplace. Vinyl plank flooring, garden door leading to the deck and solar tubes making this room nice and bright. Great size kitchen with corner pantry. Loads of counter space, which will accommodate extra sitting. All appliances included. Master bedroom suite includes large ensuite with walk in shower. His and her closets. Finishing the upper level off with laundry & front den. Lower level includes extra bedroom with walk-in closet, 3 piece bath and plenty of storage. Huge Rec room for all your family functions. The Villia has access to all amenities in Southfort Bend Complex. Meals, tours, concerts, pool table room, craft room and the administration. Best of both worlds with your independence without doing the lawn or shoveling the snow. Pets are welcome with approval from the board.
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
25, 52471 RR 223 Sherwood Park Rare Acreage living mins from Sherwood ...
Nestled at the edge of Sherwood Park LOG HOME boasts 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths, 1557 sq. ft. The basement is partially finished and awaits your personal touch. The property is surrounded by trees and backs onto a wildlife reserve with a pond. You can even catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Stunning fall colours, and serene environment make this house a true gem. Special features include an oversized detached garage, wrap-around deck, a real fireplace with stone surround, a massive private yard, custom tree house, and so much more. This home comes with all appliances and central air conditioning for those warm days. The original owners built this property with love. This friendly neighbourhood offers plenty of quiet subdivision roads for taking the dog for a walk. This is a perfect location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature, and an excellent place to raise a family with unique experiences. Mins. to Sherwood Park. Welcome to this cozy unique Home for your Family.
Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Staging your home before listing is proven to help your house sell faster, and for more.
Many sellers opt to hire a professional designer to stage the home, but we have some ideas to stage your own home like a pro. Check out our ten tips below!
Why Stage Your Home Before Listing?
Home staging has been shown to bring in significantly higher purchase prices when it is done well. On average, investing about 1% of the home's value into staging results in offers 5% to 15% over listing, and sometimes even higher. Real estate professionals agree: home staging is worth it!
Some sellers don't want to pay a professional to stage their home, since it can run anywhere from $500 to $10,000, depending on the size of the home, the condition it is in, and whether you need to rent furniture to stage with for an extended period of time.
To save some of that money but enjoy the benefits of home staging, keep reading for some tips to stage your own home.
1. Clean
This may sound obvious, but a deep clean is one of the most important factors when you decide to stage your own home. Go beyond your standard tidy and get the house sparkling clean, like a professional cleaner's results.
- Polish appliances
- Clean windows, inside and out
- Wash walls and baseboards
- Remove stains from tubs, showers, and toilets
- Rent a quality carpet cleaner
- Clean behind the toilet, under furniture, and all those spots you think no one will see
Remember, potential buyers will be looking at your home to see how well you take care of it. Any part of the home that isn't clean sends the message that you haven't kept your home in great condition, and may result in lower offers or less interest. Your goal is to make it look like new!
2. Declutter
You want potential buyers to be able to picture themselves in your home, so when you stage your own home make sure to put away personal belongings that may look like clutter. This might mean:
- Magazines and mail
- Games
- Seasonal clothes
- Hobby supplies
- Papers
- Office supplies
Aim for lots of clean, blank surfaces to help potential buyers picture themselves and their belongings in the space.
3. Define Rooms
Buyers want to picture themselves in the house, so when you stage your own home it is important to make sure each room has a defined purpose. This helps buyers imagine themselves in the space and maximizes the square footage of your house.
For example, if you have a finished attic or basement that you use for storage or flex space, stage it as an office or game room. If your breakfast nook is a catch all space, get rid of the clutter and set it up with a tidy desk, breakfast table, or armchair and side table.
4. Paint
As you stage your own home, consider both interior and exterior paint. Look at the condition and the color; Even if you painted recently, an outdated or bold color may be a turn-off to potential buyers.
Consider going with a neutral tone and make sure the paint job is done well. You can hire professionals for this (especially helpful for exterior paint) or do it yourself, but remember that a professional looking paint job is important.
5. Freshness
As you stage your own home, eliminate (or at least limit as much as possible) specific or unwelcome odors. If you are living in the home while it is listed, stay away from cooking meals that use fragrant ingredients like broccoli, hard boiled eggs, or curry. If there are pets or children in the home, be aware of odors you may be numb to, like diapers and animal scents.
Avoid artificial fragrance, as it is a turn off to many people, when staging your own home. Opt for simmering a pot with apples and cinnamon sticks or popping a batch of cookies in the oven. You want a subtle, welcoming smell in the home.
6. Add Houseplants
Houseplants are one of the best ways to freshen up a home and add decor when you stage your own home, without personalizing the space. If you think you won't be able to keep them alive while the home is listed, opt for a quality faux plant or refresh a vase with a new bouquet each week.
7. Flooring
You may be used to the slow, subtle wear and tear on your home's flooring, but when you stage your own home keep in mind that potential buyers are looking at every detail. Carpet that shows its age represents more work, or even an unkempt home, to buyers.
In some cases, a deep clean of the flooring won't be enough and it will be worth the investment to replace old carpet or damaged flooring entirely.
8. Lighting
Take advantage of natural light when you stage your own home. Open curtains or blinds to showcase the natural light your home offers.
If there are any outdated lighting fixtures, consider replacing them. This minimal investment can result in major return. Updated lighting makes a big impact in the overall design of the home, and also gives the buyer one less thing on their potential to do list, making your home more turn-key.
9. Furniture
When you stage your own home, look at the furniture and make sure it is updated and photographs well. Crowded furniture that doesn't suit a space or furniture that doesn't go well together may be functional for you as you live there, but won't translate well for potential buyers.
You may want to invest in furniture that is the right size and style for the space, eliminate furniture from a room that feels crowded, or look into renting staging furniture for the time your house is on the market.
Remember: you want potential buyers to be able to see themselves in the space, not spend energy trying to imagine the house without all your stuff in it.
10. Curb Appeal
Sometimes when you stage your own home, it's possible to focus entirely on the interior and forget about the importance of curb appeal.
Simple updates like flower boxes and a new welcome mat can go a long way. Make sure to keep up with landscaping while your house is listed and rent a power washer to make your driveway and walkway like new. Use a power washer on the home's exterior as well.
The front of your house is the first impression, so make sure to give it the attention is deserves.
Saturday, March 18, 2023
74 Acadian Wynd, Fort Saskatchewan
Family 2 Storey Home. This is a great home with lots of space and loads of extras at a great price. Spacious front foyer. Great room concept with maple hardwood floors. A large island in the kitchen with plenty of cabinets and corner pantry. Main floor laundry. Upper level features large bonus room with cozy corner gas fireplace with plenty of windows. Master bedroom suite with 3 piece bath and walk in closet. 2 extra bedrooms and 4 piece main bath. Basement unfinished. Double attached garage, heated and insulated. Yard is fenced with apple tree. Backing onto walking trails close to river valley, parks and recreation area. Perfect family home.
214 Bridgeview Dr. Fort Saskatchewan
Super clean upgraded 1614 sq ft Bi-Level with the Master bedroom suite above the garage! Open concept with welcoming front foyer. Front formal dining/den with gleaming hardwood floors throughout main floor. All has been freshly painted! Vaulted ceilings. Chef kitchen with plenty of cabinets, large island with beautiful quartz countertops. Garden door to large deck leading to huge pie shaped yard. Hardwood follows through to the great room with gas fireplace, large picture window. Main floor bedroom and 4 piece bath. Master bedroom retreat won't disappoint. Again vaulted ceilings. Walk in closet with laundry! 4 piece ensuite. Basement is fully finished. 3rd bedroom and 3 piece bath. Rec room has 2nd fireplace and plenty of room for pool table and sitting area. Small den, which does have hookups for 2nd laundry. Upgraded furnace & hot water tank. Garage with poxy flooring, heated and painted. Finally central air conditioner for those warm days. Super clean move in Ready. Long driveway for parking & RV
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Monday, November 21, 2022
Sunday, November 20, 2022
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21 Windermere Court, Fort Saskatchewan
Considered one of the best locations in this very desirable complex, “Windermere Court.” Boasting 1275 sq. ft. Modern open bright and modern floor plan. Large great room with gas fireplace adjoins large dinette area. There is an abundance of rich wood cabinets with corner pantry and large functional island. Main floor laundry. Main floor den and or formal dining room or second setting area. Main floor master bedroom suite has large walk in closet and four piece ensuite. Patio door leads to upper North facing rear deck over looking park and walking trail to our treasured river valley trail system. WALKOUT BASEMENT” has plenty of large windows letting in additional natural light. Large family room with gas fireplace. Two additional bedrooms. Four piece bath with jet tub. Double garage has water hook ups and floor drain. Built in sound system, Air conditioning. Triple pane windows (except for one and LOWER patio door) High efficiency furnace, garburator etc. Age restriction apply “Won’t Last”
What is an “As-Is, Where-Is” term and how should it be used?
If you are selling an old washing machine, a car you pulled out of the back forty, or the old brick cellphone you had when you still had hair, you could use an “As-is, Where-is” term to ensure the buyer knows you aren’t providing any warranties on the item. This works well in the realm of personal property, but what about the realm of real property? Well, let’s consider the appropriate time and use of an “As-is, Where-is” term for real property.
When to use
There are times it is entirely appropriate to use an “As-is, Where-is” term for real estate. The most common of these situations would be where the person who has the legal authority to sell the property has never lived there and does not know the property specifically. For example, a bank-owned property would be a situation where the bank has no knowledge of the property because they never lived there and simply could not warrant the condition of the property to a buyer. Similarly, with a court-ordered sale, the judge isn’t going to inspect the property, or in a probate situation, the executor may have never even visited the property either. In such situations, it is not only possible but right to use such a term to signal to the buyer that they should seek additional due diligence conditions to satisfy themselves about the property, or alternately assume the additional risk with proceeding.
When not to use
Since there exist appropriate times to use “As-is, Where-is”, there must also be times when it would be inappropriate. This term can never be used to shield the seller from a known material latent defect. For example, if the seller knows that the basement floods every spring and feels that making a statement about the property being sold as-is to the buyer will protect them from liability the next time the basement floods, they need to think again. The disclosure of known material latent defects is a requirement of the law, and you cannot contract around a legal requirement.
How to use
In the standard AREA real estate purchase contract, the property is typically sold with the land and buildings, attached goods, and select unattached goods such as appliances. As part of the agreement, the seller warrants that on the completion day the attached and included unattached goods will be in normal working order. So, when using an “As-is, Where-is” term in the standard contract, it should be worded something like “The buyer understands that the property including land, buildings, attached and unattached goods included are sold in “As-is, Where-is” condition with no warranties expressed or implied by the seller.”. This type of a term makes clear to the buyer that even the goods, such as appliances are also sold under the same condition as the land and buildings, and they should do their due diligence in regards to these items as well.
Friday, November 18, 2022
Wednesday, November 16, 2022
210 Woodbend Way, Fort Saskatchewan
Backing onto walking trails. This pie shape lot sits a 2192 sq. ft home with attached heated 24x24 garage. 9' ceilings on main & basement floor. Spacious front entry. Family style kitchen with island sink, breakfast bar, ample cupboard space, walk thru- pantry. Eating area with patio door access to your huge back deck with access to your back yard. Great room with gas burning fireplace overlooks the kitchen & eating area. Large windows letting in abundance of natural lighting. . Back entry with ample closet space and access to the heated garage. 2 piece bathroom, laundry room. Hardwood flooring in the kitchen, great room and dining area compliments this home. Upstairs you find a huge bonus room, 4 piece bathroom, 3 good sized bedrooms. Master bedrooms suite boasting his & her closets, 5 piece en suite bathroom. Fully finished basement with rec. room, 4 piece bath and 2 oversized bedrooms. Shingles and eves replace 2017. Central air conditioning and minutes walk to a park.
Room to grow for your family.
More info click here!
Saturday, November 12, 2022
Investment opportunity
Fort Saskatchewan
Welcome Home! Clio is centrally located close to hospital. 1619 sq ft. Large welcoming front entrance from the front door and your double attached garage. Plenty of storage. Upper level great room is open and welcoming. Vinyl floor planking throughout. Bright and open with plenty of natural light. Functional kitchen with huge island with quartz countertop and seating. Plenty drawers, cabinets and pantry. Great for all those family functions. All appliances are included. Garden door to balcony with BBQ natural gas line. Family size eating area over looking living room. Stairs leading you to the master bedroom suite. Large enough for king size bed. Three piece ensuite with double stand alone shower. Two other good size bedrooms. Upper level laundry too! Double attached garage. Central air conditioning too! All upgraded appliances, window coverings are included. Best part no yardwork. Condo fees $155.00 per month includes yard and snow removal.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by.
Thursday, November 10, 2022
210 Woodbend Way, Fort Saskatchewan
Backing onto walking trails. This pie shape lot sits a 2192 sq. ft home with attached heated 24x24 garage. 9' ceilings on main & basement floor. Spacious front entry. Family style kitchen with island sink, breakfast bar, ample cupboard space, walk thru- pantry. Eating area with patio door access to your huge back deck with access to your back yard. Great room with gas burning fireplace overlooks the kitchen & eating area. Large windows letting in abundance of natural lighting. . Back entry with ample closet space and access to the heated garage. 2 piece bathroom, laundry room. Hardwood flooring in the kitchen, great room and dining area compliments this home. Upstairs you find a huge bonus room, 4 piece bathroom, 3 good sized bedrooms. Master bedrooms suite boasting his & her closets, 5 piece en suite bathroom. Fully finished basement with rec. room, 4 piece bath and 2 oversized bedrooms. Shingles and eves replace 2017. Central air conditioning and minutes walk to a park.
Room to grow for your family.
654 Meadowview Dr
Fort Saskatchewan
Built in 2021 Bungalow, everything on wish list. 2364 sq ft of fully finished living space. Landscaped & fenced with extra storage under deck. Reserve on east side. Open main floor, vaulted ceilings, vinyl planking throughout. Exquisite floor to ceiling stone gas fireplace sets the mood. Huge island with sink, pot draws & seating. Over abundance of cabinets & counter space. Quartz countertops throughout home. Built in oven, microwave & countertop induction stove. Garden door to maintenance free deck & rails, gas BBQ. Main floor laundry with sink. Extra bedroom/den & full bath on main. Master bedroom suite w coffered ceiling, side bed lights, walk-in closet. Ensuite: double glass door shower w seat, tile floor. Lower level, 9' ceilings, 2 bedrooms w walk in closets. 1 bedroom has access to the 4 piece bath! The rec room will be your time to relax with family. 2 large windows leaves this room bright & open. Central air conditioning. Heated garage w hot/cold running water and floor drain. Now time to View!
22 Wallace Pointe, Fort Saskatchewan
Brand new 1788 square foot two storey. Boasting open modern, bright and cheery floor plan. Great room features gas fireplace adjoins large dinette area. Kitchen has window to back yard and large corner pantry. Unique country style rear mud room, featuring 2 piece bath, broom closet, laundry hook ups, closes closet and direct access to kitchen through walk through pantry. Has side door access for future possible suite. Upper level has 3 bedrooms. Master has coffered ceiling and four piece ensuite with jet tub. There is also a versatile loft area. 25’ x 28’ Triple garage. All located in our treasured River Valley trail system walking distance to dog park, ball and family friendly parks.
Tuesday, November 8, 2022
54 Starling Way, Fort Saskatchewan
Now under construction. Brand new 2183 square foot executive two storey. Large great room with stone accented electric fireplace. The coffered ceiling dinette is large enough to handle any sized table. Huge gourmet kitchen with chef’s pantry. Huge family functional mudroom. Spectacular open stair case leads to large central bonus room. Three bedrooms up. Upper level laundry. Large master with coffered ceiling 5 piece ensuite with corner jet tub. Large walk in closet. 27’ x 24’ garage. Located on a quiet family street. Walking distance to recreational areas. For more info.
Visit our show home at 558 Meadowview Drive.
For Sale 100, 8530-94 St. Fort Saskatchewan
Welcome Home! Clio is centrally located close to hospital. 1619 sq ft. Large welcoming front entrance from the front door and your double attached garage. Plenty of storage. Upper level great room is open and welcoming. Vinyl floor planking throughout. Bright and open with plenty of natural light. Functional kitchen with huge island with quartz countertop and seating. Plenty drawers, cabinets and pantry. Great for all those family functions. All appliances are included. Garden door to balcony with BBQ natural gas line. Family size eating area over looking living room. Stairs leading you to the master bedroom suite. Large enough for king size bed. Three piece ensuite with double stand alone shower. Two other good size bedrooms. Upper level laundry too! Double attached garage. Central air conditioning too! All upgraded appliances, window coverings are included. Best part no yardwork. Condo fees $155.00 per month includes yard and snow removal.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by.
Monday, November 7, 2022
210 Woodbend Way, Fort Saskatchewan
Backing onto walking trails. This pie shape lot sits a 2192 sq. ft home with attached heated 24x24 garage. 9' ceilings on main & basement floor. Spacious front entry. Family style kitchen with island sink, breakfast bar, ample cupboard space, walk thru- pantry. Eating area with patio door access to your huge back deck with access to your back yard. Great room with gas burning fireplace overlooks the kitchen & eating area. Large windows letting in abundance of natural lighting. . Back entry with ample closet space and access to the heated garage. 2 piece bathroom, laundry room. Hardwood flooring in the kitchen, great room and dining area compliments this home. Upstairs you find a huge bonus room, 4 piece bathroom, 3 good sized bedrooms. Master bedrooms suite boasting his & her closets, 5 piece ensuite bathroom. Fully finished basement with rec. room, 4 piece bath and 2 oversized bedrooms. Shingles and eves replace 2017. Central air conditioning and minutes walk to a park.
Room to grow for your family.
Hidden Gem!
Fort Saskatchewan Real Estate
One of Fort Saskatchewan most desirable locations. 209 Woodhill Lane. Close to river valley and beautiful walk trails. 2009 sq ft 2 Storey! maintenance free front yard! Spacious front entrance leads to great room with 9'ceilings, vinyl plank flooring with plenty of natural light. Stone floor to ceiling gas fireplace. Maple kitchen with oversized island with plenty of room for seating. Corner walk through pantry leads to garage entrance and laundry room with sink. Granite countertops. All appliances included. Garden door leads to fenced and landscaped backyard. Upper level bonus room with coffered ceiling. Master bedroom suite with huge walkin closet and 5 piece bath, double shower and jet tub. 4 extra bedrooms, 2 upper 2 basement. Oversized double attached garage 25.9 x 26 with over head radiant heater. Open staircase to basement which is 80% finished, full 4 piece bath, just flooring & ceiling. Good size rec. room and bedrooms. Large 10 x 15 deck with dura deck type planks. Move in Ready. Welcome Home!
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