Earlier this year, the Government of Canada released its 2019 Federal Budget, including the controversial and completely new First-Time Home Buyer Incentive Program. As this program is unlike anything else currently available, we are sharing the details of the incentive released by CMHC today, below.
To re-cap, there were two mortgage-related changes included in the 2019 Budget, both aimed at improving first time homebuyers’ opportunities to enter the housing market. These are:
Increase to the amount that an individual first time homebuyer may withdraw from their RRSP’s for the purpose of purchasing their first home. Previously, the maximum one could withdraw was $25,000, but now the maximum withdrawal amount has been increased to $35,000. This increase acknowledges the higher costs housing costs and assists homeowners in accessing more low-cost funds to help with their first home purchase. You can download the most recent ‘Home Buyers’ Plan Request to Withdraw Funds from an RRSP’ here.
The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive is an interest-free loan provided by the Government of Canada, which is intended to help reduce the monthly payment, improving cash-flow as a result.
At Kennedy Real Estate, we recommend you work with a Licensed Mortgage Broker, who will assist you in determining whether these programs, and others, will be right for you. Our in-house Mortgage Team are members of the Mortgage Alliance Enrich Mortgage Group provide individualized qualification & credit assessments at no cost to you. Simply Apply Today; and one of our team will be happy to get things started right away!
3 tell tale signs you’ve chosen the right spot to put down your roots
If you’re thinking of purchasing a new home or investment property, of course you want to make a good decision, am I right? One great way to ensure you put your hard earned dollars in to an investment that will give back to you, is to pick the right neighborhood!
#1 It is easy to navigate to as many “major hubs” in the city as possible.
Bonus Points if there are options for people who don’t drive. Since I live in yeg, The University of Alberta, Downtown, a Hospital, or Southgate Mall are some. Close proximity to major commuter routes like Yellowhead Trail, Whitemud Drive, and Anthony Henday are also a plus. Lastly on this one, proximity to schools is HUGE! There must be a school or two or 3 nearby!
#2 Homes sell in the area quickly and in the $400,000 range (give or take)
Now- do not, I repeat DO NOT buy the most expensive home ever sold in the neighborhood for $410,000. You never want to be the most expensive home on the block. However, it speaks to the potential future value of the home to know that it is common for homes to sell in that range. Another reason to choose this price range is that usually it is a decent home, and this price range continues to sell even in a down market (ahem 2017-2019 in Edmonton, Alberta) so chances of losing your shirt or just plain being stuck with it, are minimal.
When we talk about the “value” of our, homes, what it really means, is “What can I sell it for?” So first, we must address “Who will I sell it TO” A good portion of buyers entering the market over the number of years to come will be Millenials. They are educated, environmentally conscious, health conscious, and thrifty. However, they are willing to spend their hard earned dollars very thoughtfully on only those experiences or tangibles which stack up their aforementioned ideals. So, having locally owned & sourced restaurants &coffee shops catering to a variety of dietary preferences, and hangouts offering space for commmunal collaboration could be a major benefit when re-sale time comes around. Other services or amenities of note are yoga studio or gym, the River Valley trails, a walkable grocery store, the library, an active Community League, current orupcoming public transit etc..
No longer is it about having the biggest and best house, no matter how far out to the burbs you have to go to get it… Location and overall quality of life is everything. And schools. Don’t forget the schools.
Ritchie Market, Home to Acme Meats, Beira, and Transcend Coffee. Boasting a large common seating area.
At KENNEDY we pride ourselves in providing our clients top notch, first class real estate services. What makes us unique is that we offer these services collectively as a team – an entire office team of 30 working for all of our clients. We provide consistent, competent and effective advice and services in order that our clients make the best decisions.
Just as each home is unique, so too is the BUYER for that home. You can’t be all things to all buyers, but you can be the right home for the right buyer. Custom marketing gives your home the BEST chance at securing that RIGHT buyer. At KENNEDY we firmly believe that each home has a unique buyer for it – and our marketing is directed toward that end.
One host with many servers. Together we can accomplish much more as a whole than in parts. Success through teamwork. Our listings are shared with the team to market to their prospective channels, sphere and clients. Traditionally offices typically do not share in the marketing of the individual agents listings. We believe in the more the merrier when it comes to sharing in the marketing of a property. Our entire marketing platform is shared with the whole team. Our clients benefit from the increased effort and exposure.
The KENNEDY approach has always been about innovation and staying one step ahead of the fold. We are leaders in our industry in terms of sales efficiency, intelligent marketing, and building synergy within our team/industry and our most awesome clients.
If there is a better way ….we will find it and implement it. That’s one of the many benefits of a team approach. We have a unique marketing approach, a polished product and the manpower to make it all happen for our agents and our clients alike.
Our Listing Book! Take a tour…
Marketing in action… a few examples..
Coming soon…team approach on this home produced 14 showings in 24 hours and three offers!! We let the pictures and the home tell the story. Showcasing the best this home has to offer in order to attract the right buyer – or as in this case right buyers!!
Every home has a story to tell, and everyone loves a good story. Here is such a home. This homeowner went above and beyond with his basement reno and we wanted the wold to know….have a look!!….and the home had two offers on it within three days!! Owners were over.the.moon!!!!
Kennedy Real Estate is the premier independent full-service brokerage team in Edmonton. Leveraging its innovation, brand recognition, real estate vision and tremendous resources, Kennedy Real Estate delivers a level of distinctive services unparalleled in the industry. By adhering to Kennedy’s standards of best-in-class talent, personalized service, superior quality, attention to detail and innovation, Kennedy Real Estate demonstrates a clear competitive advantage in marketing and selling the finest properties.
Team marketing in action: Private facebookpage to share our buyer wants and up coming properties for sale. A marketing platform and tool that is afforded to ALL agents that gives them the latest technology to not only promote the property but also to find buyer for it at the same time – via our ‘every property is unique’ marketing approach…
Each one of these is a lead generator. We can use implement these lead generators to help us secure buyers for our listings. Depending on what the property has to offer will determine how we approach the lead generation for the ‘right’ buyer. And this model /system is implemented by the whole team. It is absolutely brilliant. Its really the most efficient use of a team and the best way to sell real estate.
We also have three main websites and 28 subdomains that we use for generating traction on our properties.
Fantastic 4 bdrm, 4 level split in Sakaw perfect for families!
Great starter home, conveniently located on bus route, just off 66th Street. Envision this home with your own colours!
This cozy 4-level split home is allergy-friendly; no carpet, no pets & no smoking here! Large south-facing windows makes this home nice and sunny year-round. It has newer vinyl windows, new concrete front walk & driveway, leading up to your over-sized double-detached garage.
The bright open kitchen has been updated with white cupboards, butcher block countertops & stainless steel appliances. There are 3 bedrooms upstairs w/main bath. A large 4th bedroom located on the 3rd level w/ family room & 3 piece bath could be your teenager’s oasis! Unspoiled basement houses laundry and plenty of space for storage.
Huge backyard is fully fenced with low-maintenance landscaping.
This adorable 2 bed 2 bath open concept unit is sure to impress. Enjoy galley style kitchen with raised breakfast bar and comfortable living and dining area.
A spacious master bedroom with good sized closet and full 4 piece ensuite …
The Second Bedroom is also a really good size.
Picture yourself enjoying morning coffee on the over-sized east facing balcony with no- one looking in PLUS you will never get too hot!
WELCOME HOME to ALTA VISTA SOUTH at 10303 111 Street
Located in the downtown district, this modern, exceptionally built 18+ concrete building is in a prime location just steps to Railtown Park, MacEwan and the LRT! Surrounded by trendy restaurants, markets and nightlife, living here makes it easy to enjoy the luxurious life of our new, exciting downtown.
Enjoy cooking and entertaining in this bright open concept kitchen complete with 9’ ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of storage. This suite boasts a spacious master bedroom, large den with closets, and 2 full bathrooms. It offers in-suite laundry and an inviting east facing balcony with views of Railtown Park and the downtown skyline. It’s extensive menu of amenities include a large in-house gym, meeting area and guest room. With all community offers, this condo is ideal for anyone seeking to enjoy downtown living and is for those who the benefit of being able to walk to everything! Don’t miss out owning this quality condo in the new Ice and Brewery District.
LOOK MASTER BUILDER IS IN EDGEMONTOne of West Edmonton’s newest family communities with quick and easy access to all the old favorites including Edmonton Public and Catholic schools, groceries & local offerings, and wonderful restaurants! With nature at your fingertips and the Anthony Henday at your door, it’s probably too expensive for you, right? Wrong. Try $339,900!!
LETS SEE WHAT’S INSIDE ( This was the Show-Home. Finishes and layouts may vary slightly)
Welcome to the Highlands! This ultra charming River Valley Community has an endearing Old Town vibe, an active Community League, a secret collection of boutiques, book nooks & coffee shops, and a superb local dining spot or two. The amenities are just close enough, and trees line nearly every street. If you are a running, bike, or golf enthusiast- welcome home!
A wonderful historical treasure, 11227 65 Street is a beautifully restored and fully finished 1923 Heritage Home with some integral modern touches. Enjoy high ceilings, the original kitchen cabinetry- restored, 3 piece main floor bath true to its time with claw-foot tub, and gleaming hardwood floors throughout. Appreciate authentic baseboards, door trims, little doors & tall doors + classic wooden shutters for warmth and privacy.
For modern convenience enjoy newer European appliances: washer, dryer, and dishwasher ( YES! We have a dishwasher folks!). Stainless steel in the kitchen, custom glass back-splash, renovated second bathroom, and keep warm with your tech- savvy NEST thermostat control.
Outside is the best part! This lovingly maintained yard is fully fenced and equipped with a raised garden box (you can have a dog and still garden!) stamped concrete patio and walkway + low maintenance shrubs and plants. Complete the package with newer double garage and shingles.
This enchanting home must be seen to be appreciated! Live in an out-door lifestylefriendly river valley neighborhood today!
What is at the top of your list of “must have’s” when searching for your new Edmonton home in 2017? Is it an active community league, or proximity to a specific school, maybe your work? If you are selling a home, do you know what purchasers are looking for in your area?
These are the first questions I ask myself when working with a new home buyer or preparing a marketing platform for a new listing. Where is there added value for my client??
For many, its nature. There’s mega value in having an outdoor escape nearby .
I should also let you know, I DID NOT spend a fortune on my home. If you’re like me, and nature is what you need, ask me for affordable living in the mature neighborhoods of Elmwood,Lynnwood, or Rio Terrace!
This natural reserve is perfect for on leash dog walking, snowshoeing, x-country skiing, animal watching and just being out doors in general. There is a washroom facility on site as well.
If you have always wanted to live near trees and greenery but prefer a new neighborhood, here is your chance! There are3 BRAND NEW NEIGHBORHOODShere. Starling, Trumpeter, andHawks Ridge all of which are only a few minutes from this amazing natural area with ask prices starting in the low to mid 300’s for townhouse or half duplex style homes. Detached homes range from the mid 400’s and upwards.
I promise I’m getting to a point here. And its this: Buying or selling a home is a huge deal. Much more than paint, flooring, and square footage. Let someone with lots of valuable experience be your guide & choose a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle goals perfectly. This is where I come in… Shameless sales plug in 3.. 2… 1.
