Lifestyle Selling

Lifestyle Marketing is the fastest growing trend particularly in the Real Estate industry. It takes into account that people don’t just buy sticks and mortar they buy in part a lifestyle. More and more buyers are looking for homes that FIRST fit their lifestyle. Perhaps it’s a pet friendly condo, a home that can accommodate a home office, a gated community or a place that is walking distance to amenities. Lifestyle marketing highlites these features through a variety of means. Here are a few ways KENNEDY Real Estate makes that happen:

Custom Lifestyle Searches   : Our buyers can direct their search to the right lifestyle fit. Driving the right buyer toward the right property.

Search By Neighborhood : Offers  local information on walk scores, amenities, schools, medical, public transportation, favorite hangouts  etc. Selling the features of the neighborhood to drive traffic to YOUR home.

Professional Photography:  For all of our listings.These photos also take into account the lifestyle selling components of the home. Stylized photo’s that tell a story as well as provide a “hook” to the buyer. The “hook” helps the buyer to remember the property – and in a sea of listings – it is essential to stand out. Here are some of our Stylized photo’s.

Home Staging options : From FREE in home detailing to staging vacant properties – all designed to maximize your home’s selling potential! Staging does work! Click here for some of the properties that we have staged.

Our PROMO’s : Our way of saying thank you to our clients who buy or sell with Kennedy Real Estate. They can also be used by our clients as a deal closer.  Here are our top 3 picks:

Messy Maid:  Complimentary Move in or Move out Cleaning

Clear Skies:   Window/Gutter Cleaning

Frog Box:       Storage box Rental

They are all designed for the most part to aid in the move and or aid in the closing of the deal process. It benefits both buyer and seller. A total win win situation.

This is a feature that is total unique to any other Brokerage in town. And by the way our complimentary move in or move out cleaning is a resounding favorite amongst both our buyers and sellers.

Our Lifestyle Searches and Neighborhood Search modules help to generate a steady stream of buyers to our website and hence our listings. They are easy to use and our buyer’s appreciate the custom approach to finding their perfect pad. Our professional stylized listing photos help our clients to  stand out in a crowd – offering a memorable visual experience. And our promo’s are our way to say thank you and in some cases a deal closer.

Dare to compare!

Additional “Edmonton Home Stager” Articles…

Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…
 

Jennifer Kennedy
Broker | Owner

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager

Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

REALTORS® : Looking for a great Team environment to grow your business…see our Brokerage Model for info on how to make that happen!

Additional “AGENT 101” Articles…

Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…

Jennifer Kennedy
Broker | Owner

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager

Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

REALTORS® : Looking for a great Team environment to grow your business…see our Brokerage Model for info on how to make that happen!

Frequently Asked Questions - Sellers

Frequently Asked Questions – Sellers

1. Can I cancel my listing at any time? No. The Listing Contract is between you and the Brokerage and is intended to create legal and binding obligations on both parties.

2. After my listing expires, how long do I have to wait until I can sell my house? You can sell at any time but you may still have to pay commission. Please check with your REALTOR® to clarify any ‘holdover’ clause in your listing contract.

3. If I find my own buyer during the listing, do I only pay half the commission? You pay the commission agreed to in your Listing Contract.

4. What is the commission rate? Commission rates are negotiated at the time of the Listing Contract.

5. Do I have to pay GST when I sell my home? Not on private previously-owned primary residential property. All other types, please contact Revenue Canada. Note: there will be GST on any goods and services that you buy/employ in relation to your sale.

6. What is MLS®? The Multiple Listing Service®, a co-operative real estate listing service used by REALTORS® is a  computer based information network combining current market information with historical data. In the Edmonton region, MLS® provides over 3000b REALTORS with up to the minute market information seven days a week, 24hrs a day.

7. If I get an offer I don’t like, do I have to counter it? No. You have the choice of accepting, rejecting or making a counter-offer.

8. What is an RPR? Real Property Report. This is the relatively new name for a survey certificate.

9. Do I have to use a lawyer? While highly recommended, the final decision is yours.

10. If the buyer does not remove his conditions, who gets the deposit? If the buyer has not otherwise breached the contract, the buyer usually gets it all. Check with your REALTOR®  or lawyer regarding the specifics of your contract.

11. If the buyer does not ‘complete’ the transaction after removing conditions, who gets the deposit? If you have not otherwise breached the contract, you usually get it all as liquidated damages. Check with your REALTOR® or lawyer regarding the specifics of your contract. Based on your listing contract, you may be required to split any forfeited deposit with your brokerage.

12. What is the difference between condition day and possession day? Condition day is the day the buyer has to remove the conditions on the property. The house is then sold. Possession day is the day that the keys are handed over to the new owner – and they take possession.

Additional “Christy’s Credentials” Articles…

 Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…

Christy Van Dyke
Associate | REALTOR®
Your Greenview | Hillview Area Specialist
Search Homes For Sale in Greenview | Hillview 

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

Frequently Asked Questions - Buyers

Frequently Asked Questions – Buyers

 1. What does it cost as a buyer to use an agent? The compensation that a sales agent receives typically comes from the seller’s proceeds. In other words, there is no cost for a buyer to use an agent in a traditional agent/buyer relationship.

2. Can my agent give me information regarding properties from other companies? Yes, if that other company is a member of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) – which most real estate companies belong. We have access to all MLS listed properties.

3. How can I find out about new properties? Your agent should be able to accommodate your particular situation whether it be via e-mail, phone calls etc. Clients with e-mail capability can receive automatic updates from the MLS system as soon
as new listings are entered.

4. Who holds the deposit cheque when I make an offer to purchase? Typically the seller’s brokerage (real estate company) holds the deposit ‘in trust’ fro both you and the seller.

5. What is the minimum deposit? This is negotiable. Discuss with your Realtor the implications of various options regarding the size
of deposit that will best assist you in your negotiations with the seller.

6. What’s the difference between chattels and fixtures? Chattels are unattached goods that go with the seller; fixtures are attached goods that stay with the property. Any chattels that you want included must be written into the purchase contract and agreed to by the seller.

7. Who does the appraiser work for? The appraiser works for whomever contracts for his services. If you are taking out a mortgage and the lender orders an appraisal, the appraiser works for the lender.

8. Who pays the appraiser? The appraiser is paid by whomever contracts for his services. If that was the lender, the lender
may pass on those charges to you.

9. Do I have to use a lawyer? It is highly recommended. If you are getting a mortgage, your lender will probably require that
the transaction be handled by a lawyer.

10. Do I have to pay GST when I buy a home? Not on private previously-owned primary residential
property. All other types, please contact Revenue Canada. Note: there will be no GST on any goods and services that you buy or employ in relation to your purchase.

11. Do I have to have an inspection? No. The decision to have an inspection is up to you. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages
with your REALTOR® prior to making your decision.

12. Can I withdraw my offer before it is accepted? In most cases, yes. Check with your REALTOR®
or lawyer regarding the specifics of your offer.

13. Can I withdraw my offer after it is accepted? In most cases, no. Check with your REALTOR® or lawyer regarding the specifics of your contract.

Additional “Christy’s Credentials” Articles…

Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…

Christy Van Dyke
Associate | REALTOR®
Your Greenview | Hillview Area Specialist
Search Homes For Sale in Greenview | Hillview 

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

Search

•Contact your bank and get a pre-approval letter as well as a guaranteed interest rate (60-120 day rate hold).

•Contact your REALTOR® and get set up with an autosearch getting you and your REALTOR® familiar at what you are looking for.

•Set up a budget and a timeline for viewing properties with your REALTOR®. It is in this process that you will determine your wants from needs. You may have to give and take on some things and you may end up with something a little different from what you had in mind, but in the end you will have found the right home.

Offer

•Put in an offer on a property, always include conditions of finance and home inspection.

•Be sure to give your REALTOR®  your Lawyer/Mortgage Broker information.  direct to them when your offer is accepted. (If you don’t have a lawyer – ask us for a list of real estate lawyers)

Acceptance

(pending period)

•Once offer is accepted, initial deposit cheque is cashed and will be applied toward your down payment. You will have 5 – 10 days to satisfy conditions

•Arrange appt. with and fax purchase papers to Mortgage Broker/ Lender

•Lender will arrange for appraiser

•Arrange for home inspection, if an older home, have the sewage line tested.

•Finalize finances with bank

•Ensure all conditions are satisfactory and sign a form stating conditions are removed

Sold

•Give second deposit cheque (if required) once conditions are removed

•Our office will send purchase documents directly to your lawyer and mortgage broker Lawyer deals with all legal matters and ensures monies are transferred and will call you to come in and sign papers

•Arrange for all utilities to commence on your possession date.

•Reserve a moving company/truck and reserve the elevator from the management company if it is a condo purchase

•Arrange for insurance.

•Arrange for utilities hook up.

•Notify the post office of your change in address.

•Several weeks before possession, meet with your lawyer to sign the documents…bring in cash to close.

•Keys are released to you on possession day by your REALTOR® – usually around 12noon -2pm

•Enjoy your new pad!!

We have a list of real estate lawyers, mortgage brokers and home inspectors available to you at your request.

Additional “Christy’s Credentials” Articles…

Christy Van Dyke
Associate | REALTOR®
Your Greenview | Hillview Area Specialist
Search Homes For Sale in Greenview | Hillview 

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

Moving Tips Part One

• After you’ve moved in, it’s a good idea to let all your electrical appliances return to room temperature before plugging them in.
• Don’t forget to be environmentally friendly! Flatten all your moving boxes for recycling. Many moving companies will pick them up after your move.
• Before you begin to unpack, don’t forget to wipe out all cabinets and shelves.
• Boiling Cinnamon sticks will give your kitchen a clean, fresh scent.
• It’s important to tape your microwave shut and remove the glass plate before you move.
• If you’re planning on hiring a mover, but want to keep costs low, consider doing your own packing. You can also save time and purchase your own packing boxes in advance.
• It is wise to arrange for quick cash to cover unexpected or emergency moving-related expenses.
• Make sure that direct debit and billings links to your bank accounts are organized to handle any changes resulting from your move.
• Certain times of the year are busier moving times. It’ wise to plan ahead and make sure there is availability on the day you want to move.
• Most gas, water and electricity companies require several days notice for disconnecting and re-connecting your services.
• Be prepared to order take-out food or eat out on the first couple of nights in your new home. Chances are you’ll feel tired to cook, but even of you do feel like cooking, most of your kitchen appliances will probably still be packed away.

Corrie Harpe

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

Moving Tips Part 2

• Important documents such as wills or deeds, jewelry, photos, and family videos are impossible to replace. Consider moving these and other important belongings to a safety deposit box while you move.
• Find out if homeowners or renters insurance policy covers your belongings in transit.
• Be sure to settle all bills that may be overlooked in the move a few days before moving day.
• Remember to contact your local post office and fill out forwarding address forms.
• Additionally, leaving a small welcome card with your forwarding address for the new people moving into your old home is a nice way of asking for any additional pieces of your mail to be redirected.
• You should always shut and lock all windows and doors as you leave your old home on moving day.
• Many movers will be able to make special arrangements for transporting your plants and pets.
• If moving into an apartment/ highrise be sure to book the elevator with the management company.
• Avoid loading more than 50 pounds into one box.
• Label each box and indicate the following: which room it should go in, whether it is fragile, and if it should be loaded last so it will be unloaded first.
• Pack medications in a leak proof container.
• Movers are limited by law in what they can give you for lost or damaged goods. To cover potential damage, check with existing homeowner’s or renter’s policy.
• Document an inventory of all your belongings before you pack.

Corrie Harpe

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

My Name is Friday and I am available for Adoption!

So you are determined to find a place that can accommodate you and  Poochie. Sometimes the journey is not always easy – nor simple. However – knowing what to expect and how to go about getting your Poochie approved  by the Condo Board is worth knowing before you head out on your search.

A few things to consider regarding Pet Policies:

• All condo boards have some sort of Pet Policy in place. And in most cases where they DO allow pets – it is still with Board Approval.
• Pet height and weight restriction: usually 18-20 pounds and no bigger than 12 inches in height.
• Cats – usually no more than two allowed.
• Birds and other critters still need board approval.
• Usually when a condo is first built – there is no formal board formed to give any direction on a Pet Policy – so many critters can be ‘grandfathered’ into a building if the condo board later decides to restrict pets.
• Townhouses – are usually alittle more lax on the pet approval process…most all allow cats and small dogs …with approval.
• Duplexes – you are the master of your own pet policy…no restrictions. Except that you will be living in close quarters to your neighbor – SO you still want to be a responsible pet owner 🙂

Procedure for Pet Approval

Take a picture of your furry friend, along with a short description of the type and temperament of dog, and submit it to the person on the condo board that takes care of pet approvals. In most cases this is all done via email. A good idea in this email – is to describe how you care for your pet – and to give reassurance of your responsibility as a pet owner. This can go along way on the good will bandwagon to pet approval.

Exceptions to the Rule:

If for medical reasons , ie. epilepsy, diabetes, etc. you require a certain breed that exceeds the 18lbs 12inch rule – you can, along with a medical note from your doctor, override a pet policy. I had a client – with diabetes – that had a small Shepard – and we got her approval with a note from her doctor.

Final Note…

For the most part pet owners are responsible. It’s the odd ones out that make things difficult for the rest. This is usually the case when a condo board decides to make the building a strictly no pet zone – in the long run of re-saleability – this is not a good thing. For instance – most of the high rises along Victoria Promenade do NOT allow pets. Wow = when you think of the demographic wanting to move into these buildings, have pets. They are either downsizing and want to bring their existing Poochie family member with them – or they are single – widowed – divorced  and want a furry friend for comfort and companionship. Pet friendly condos will have the upper hand in resale down the road. Pet owners are a demographic growing in size – builders and condo boards beware!

It’s a lifestyle that’s on the rise….

Looking for a Pet Friendly condo? We can help!

Our furry friend pictured above is currently available for adoption!

Contact Rescue for Life  or SCARS for more info on adoption. A life spared, a life of love to give …adopt a pet today:)

Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…

Jennifer Kennedy
Broker | Owner

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager

Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

REALTORS® : Looking for a great Team environment to grow your business…see our Brokerage Model for info on how to make that happen!

St. Albert Spa Sink

Has it been a long day at work, have the tasks of the day wipped you out?  There is no other  cure than this awesome Luxury Spa in St.  Albert.  They treat you absolutely phenominal there.  I have been going  to have my nails done with Bonnie for some time now, and she  is the best.  Recently I  had a pedicure that was  equally awesome.   When you need to treat yourself, this is the place to go.  Gelous Nails is conveniently located downtown St. Albert, (#102, 5 Perron Street) and they have their own PARKING in the parkade.   Your husband has come home,   the little ones are fed and settled and  you need some time for yourself.  For your next R & R this is the place to go in St. Albert.   There is no better time than now for you to relax.  Book your appointment at Gelous Nails and  jump in the car  and off you go to this awesome spa in downtown St. Albert. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit  Gelous Nails yet, put it on your bucket list.

As soon as I open the door to Gelous Nails I know that I will  be treated like never before.  Gelous Nails Estehetics Studio provides the highest standards of service, whether it is a nail treatment, pedicure, waxing or hair services.  St. Albert is a community that offers many awesome services, restaurants, walking trails, schools, and real estate.

www.liveinstalbert.com

Additional “Anna’s Advice” Articles…

Here are the pro’s and con’s of using an increased deposit from both the buyers and sellers point of view.

Seller: From a Seller’s point of view an increased deposit reflects the seriousness and sincerity of the buyers efforts in securing the deal. His good faith in proceeding with the deal.

Buyer:  From a buyer’s point of view, it may give them an edge over a competing buyer’s offer in a multiple offer situation.

Negative: only to a Buyer – if they remove all of their conditions – and then decide to back out of the deal – in which case their deposit would be forfeited.

Generally speaking the sellers want to be assured that the buyer is serious and sincere about the offer and seeing it through to possession. The size of the deposit is a litmus test for a buyers sincerity to see the offer through to completion. In addition the seller will be taking their home off the market – whilst the property is waiting for possession. If the buyer is not able to fulfill the terms of the contract (after all conditions have been met) then the deposit is often times the only recourse a seller will receive.

Additional “AGENT 101” Articles…

Additional “Edmonton Realtor: KENNEDY Real Estate” Articles…

Jennifer Kennedy
Broker | Owner

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager

Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!
Area Specialists | Lifestyle Marketing

REALTORS® : Looking for a great Team environment to grow your business…see our Brokerage Model for info on how to make that happen!