Attention first-time home buyers and investors! Totally charming high-rise suite with the most breathtaking downtown views and great access to shopping and Public Transportation right on the river valley for all those nature loving and active people. Freshly painted, with high end vinyl flooring being recently installed this spacious one bedroom end unit has an area off the living room for an office set up plus a large walk in storage area. Newer dishwasher, stove and a microwave. Move in ready, simply start to enjoy urban living, conveniently within walking distance to shops and restaurants. Welcome to the Top of the Valley!
Top of the Valley high rise is located in Oliver at 12121 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton. Building was built in 1975 and consist of 106 apartment style condos with a central elevator, exercise room, underground & visitor parking. Top of the Valley condo, which overlook the River Valley, offer quick access to Downtown core, U of A, and trendy 124 street via public transport.
Completely remodeled in two phases and now ready for immediate occupancy! You will have the benefit of purchasing a completely renovated second floor east facing unit with an excellent location in the build as a bonus! Brand new flooring – all solid surface, new baseboards fixtures, backsplash, painted throughout and polished and detailed for the new owner(s)!
Single-family detached homes demand will continue to drive the market with the average price expected to increase six per cent, year over year, to more than $500,000. By comparison, condominiums are forecast to rise about one per cent in average price to about $185,000.
But hey, there is a good news for for first-time and move-up buyers, single-family detached homes in Edmonton remain very reasonable, with only Regina and Winnipeg market’s being more affordable, the study shows.
With more interest from young Canadian professionals and families in British Columbia and Ontario looking to migrate to the city to purchase a home and with Bank of Canada signaling interest rates hike from record lows to combat inflation this spring, it is time to call a real estate specialist in your area to start your house hunting rolling!🏠🗝
I can help you in finding, comparing, and negotiating your next home!
And the best thing, if you are buying a home, it doesn’t cost you money to use a real estate agent!! 😉
Galina Mironova
REALTOR | LOCAL Real Estate🍏
780.504.4470
Galina@soldlocal.ca
According to most forecasts, home prices are likely to continue to rise throughout the year, albeit at a more moderate pace compared to 2021. Home sales, meanwhile, are likely to pull back from last year’s record levels.
“While price growth is not expected to be as extreme in 2022, many of the conditions that supported it right up until the end of 2021 will still be there on New Year’s Day,” the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) told us in its year-end housing forecast for 2022.
While CREA suggests activity could calm down briefly early in the year, it added that this year’s spring market “will no doubt be an interesting one.”
Demand remains strong from an “unobservable but no doubt large number of households waiting for new listings to show up,” according to CREA. But anticipated interest rate hikes later in 2022 could start to deter new homebuyers looking to enter the market.
Here’s a look at some of the key economic and housing forecasts for 2022:
Average home prices: +7.6% (CREA)
Home sales: -8.6% (CREA)
Inflation: 3.4% in 2022 and 2.3% in 2023 (Bank of Canada)
GDP: 4.3% in 2022 and 3.7% in 2023 (Bank of Canada)
If you’re looking to purchase or sell this year, I’d be happy to discuss how this outlook might impact your plans and what options are available for you.
DM me today, so we could start working on your plan tomorrow!
Galina Mironova
Associate | REALTOR
LOCAL Real Estate
What is a CMA🤔 and how do you get one?
Better known as a Comparative Market Analysis, a CMA helps determine what your home is worth compared to similar properties in the area that have sold in the last 4-6 months. In short, a CMA will help you understand how your home will fare against the competition. To determine the value of your home, a real estate agent will compare your home to homes with similar square footage, age, amenities, upgrades, condition, and those which are located in the same neighborhood or a similar area.
The more similar these comps, the better the price estimation. Keep in mind, CMA’s are very subjective because it may be hard to account for things such as the home’s curb appeal or what the home’s located near (ex. across from a railroad or power station). Finding a good agent that can help estimate the value of your home, based on these factors, is vital in determining the best list price.
Other factors an agent will look at when compiling a CMA include when a property sold and certain characteristics of the home. For example, when looking at the sold dates of other properties in fast moving markets, an agent will focus on sales from the last 2-3 months vs. longer. The characteristics of your home must closely match the characteristics of the comparable homes. For example, comparable homes should have the same number of bedrooms and bathrooms and a similar sized lot. Keeping comps as similar as possible give you the best footing for generating the best list price.
As you can see, a lot of value is derived from the compilation of a CMA by a real estate expert. The best way to get your home sold is to be in a competitive price range and a CMA will provide that.
Did you know that a Real Estate Agent could provide a CMA at no cost?!🤩
Contact me today for a complimentary consultation!
CORNER LOT in Malmo Plains! This beautiful, well-maintained property boasts unique features that make it a cut above the rest. To learn more…
Large main floor windows flood the home with morning light. One 2pce bath, kitchen and two living rooms make up the main floor area. Upstairs you will find 4 BEDROOMS with one 4 pce bath, and his/hers closets in the master bedroom. The basement provides for additional storage and living space and is equipped with 100 amp service. Outside you will find a small storage shed, garden and green space for hosting or lawn games. An OVERSIZE GARAGE is equipped with a SHOP in one bay and room for vehicles in the other. This is a rare gem, poised for the opportunity and creativity of the next generation! Fully fenced and minutes away from schools, parks, Southgate Shopping mall & LRT. Discover for yourself why so many residents of Malmo Plains wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!
Welcome to Helenslea Estates! This charming 1.5 Storey home BACKING RAVINE with 1 ACRE lot located just 5 MINUTES away from the city limits. The spacious driveway is hidden in a large private greenspace. Walking up the steps you will find an over 2500 sq.ft. of living space for your family to enjoy! The main floor boasts NEWER OAK HARDWOOD (2013), RENOVATED FIREPLACE, MANTLE, & HEARTH (2018), 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (INCLUDING 1 OF 2 ENSUITES), 2 living rooms, kitchen, and a large dining room. The upper level boasts the full master bedroom, 4PC ENSUITE with an office/living room and porch overlooking the front driveway. The basement includes 1 bedroom, laundry room, CRAFTS ROOM, REC ROOM and WORKOUT ROOM. Step out onto the deck and take in the beauty of the HAND-CRAFTED ROCK WATERFALL. Mature trees grace the backyard, with multiple sheds and a VEGETABLE GARDEN in the back.The gates at the front & back open for ACCESS TO VEHICLE STORAGE. A pure serenity just steps away from the city! Welcome HOME!
Address: 24 53226 Range Road 261, Rural Parkland County
No matter where you live, listings for homes in popular neighborhoods are often few and far between. When these homes do hit the market, they typically don’t remain on the market for very long. With that in mind, if you have your heart set on buying in a desired area, starting your house hunt early and having patience means that when the moment comes, you’ll need to act quickly.If you’re really interested in a home, get as much info as you can beforehand: property reports, disclosures and offer due dates. These can usually be requested through your buying agent. Very important is to keep your schedule open, because in hot markets, available properties wait for no one.
Have your proof of funds & pre-approval ready
If you’ve decided you want to throw your hat in the ring and make an offer, always assume that many others have as well. Anticipating a multiple offer situation can help you come out ahead. After you’ve seen a home, speed is often the key. For hot markets, you might only have a day or two to get your offer submitted after viewing the home. Double check with the seller’s agent regarding the offer deadline so that you can be sure yours is submitted on time. In order for you to be “offer ready” when you find the property you want, it’s crucial to have any supplemental paperwork, like your mortgage pre-approval and proof of funds for the down payment, ready to act quickly.
Keep your offer simple
Most offers include conditions — things like completing inspections and receiving a mortgage approval — that need to happen for the transaction to move forward. When looking at offers, sellers tend to see conditions as potential opportunities for the deal to fall apart. As a result, they’re more likely to choose an offer that’s relatively “clean” or reduces their risk of potential hang-ups. In a competitive market, you might see other buyers removing or reducing their conditions periods to make their offer more competitive. However, it’s also crucial that you feel comfortable moving forward. For example, if you choose to waive an inspection condition, you’re agreeing to buy the home regardless of what problems may exist. As you put your offer together, consider the maximum amount you’re willing to pay, what compromises you’re willing to make and how flexible you can be on your closing schedule
Start with a strong sale price
Besides keeping your conditions in check, there is another component of the offer that will help set you apart from the crowd and it’s fairly obvious — the offer price. When you’re bidding for a home in a desirable neighborhood, you need to put your best foot forward.
As for how much you should offer, consider the asking price first. If it’s within your budget you may want to at least offer that amount if not a little more. Consider the amount listed on your pre-approval as your maximum, and work within those limits.
Write an offer letter
On the surface, all offers look the same. That is to say, they all generally include the same information about the buyer. In a situation where the seller is considering multiple offers, all that information can start to blend together. An offer letter, or a personal note you write to the seller explaining why you’re the perfect buyer for the home, might just be the thing that sets your offer apart from the others. Bear in mind that the ideal offer letter is short, sweet, and to the point. Your goal is to connect with the seller emotionally so that they’ll be more inclined to choose your offer. In a few paragraphs, you’ll want to tell the seller why you fell in love with their home and why they should sell to you.
Summary
It can feel overwhelming shopping for a home amongst crazy competition, but don’t be discouraged. With the right amount of preparation, you’ll be ready to make the necessary moves to secure the home of your dreams.
Thinking of buying a house and need help? Contact me at 780.504.4470 or galina@soldlocal.ca! I can help!
I am sure, if you would be given an option, most of us would choose a weekend in a park or on a couch with a nice book, not on a ladder pulling leaves out of a gutter. But when your home is your biggest investment, maintaining your house is a must. Home maintenance can feel like a boring chore, especially for a new homeowner who has never seen a boiler or a furnace up close, not to mention draining it / or replacing a filter. But it doesn’t have to feel daunting or overwhelming. A secret to a well-kept and properly maintained house is to operate it with the season! Follow a seasonal home maintenance schedule, and keep up with the small things, and your house will be always in great shape!
Monthly
Choose one day each month for these revolving items which can easily be performed in a morning or afternoon.
Replace the furnace filter (if you don’t have central air conditioning, then you only need to do this during months of operation).
Clean your kitchen range hood filter.
Test your smoke and CO (carbon monoxide) detectors.
Clean your shower heads and faucet aerators.
Inspect and clear out all sink and tub drains.
Semi-annually
These tasks should be performed twice each year, once when preparing for winter and again each spring.
Replace smoke and CO detector batteries.
Check your attic for evidence of water incursion, rodents and confirm your insulation is in good shape.
Inspect your windows and doors (ensure frames, sweeps, stripping and caulking are in good shape).
Test your hot water tank’s pressure relief valve.
Inspect your eaves roughing, gutters, and flashing.
Clean your baseboard heater grills (turn off any breakers beforehand and be sure the grills are dry before re-engaging them)
Vacuum your air return ducts
Pull out appliances like your fridge and stove to vacuum and dust behind
Annually
Annual maintenance and inspections usually happen in the spring or fall with a few exceptions that are not season-specific.
Spring:
Inspect and pressure wash your home’s exterior.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on the caulking used to seal your siding.
Inspect your roof, eaves, and flashing each spring.
Pro tip: If there’s any sign of curling, cracking or disintegration, we recommend calling a roofing inspector immediately.
Inspect and clean your AC.
Pro tip: You only need to use a garden hose to clear dirt and debris from the unit. Remember to disconnect the power first!
Check your deck or porch, and wood fence for damage or rot and replace boards as needed.
Pressure wash your deck and fence. Watch your pressure settings though so you don’t accidentally gouge your wood!
Inspect your asphalt driveway. If you see the color and definition of individual pebbles, then you know it’s time to reseal.
Have your carpets professionally cleaned. You can also rent a carpet cleaning machine.
Have your chimney and fireplace/wood stove inspected and cleaned.
Check for mould: Inspect your home’s interior, especially places you don’t see often, and check for musty or dank odours.
Pro tip: If you discover mould, do not stop until it’s safely cleaned and the source identified and corrected—this may require a mould remediation expert.
Inspect horizontal runs from your gutters.
Pro tip: Ensure water is being directed away from the house so it does not collect and soak into the foundation.
Inspect your foundation for cracks and moisture.
Fall:
Test your home’s thermostat.
Inspect and clean out your eavestroughs and gutters.
Check your septic system (if you have a septic tank, it’s important to have a professional inspect it annually).
Drain and shut off exterior faucets.
Any time of year:
Inspect your plumbing for leaks or sweating.
Review your electrical system. Whether you live in an older home, or a new build, identifying potential problems early can save a lot of stress down the road.
Call an HVAC professional to service your furnace each year.
Inspect your flooring for wear and tear.
Check your toilets-if they start to rock, prevent damaging leaks by replacing the flange.
Check for wiggly door handles and squeaky hinges
Preparing for the long-term
You know that rainy day you’re always told to save for? Putting money aside for any eventual repairs is a smart way to avoid unnecessary shocks down the road. With modern building materials and warranties, it may be decades before repairs are needed, but it’s best to be ready.
Five years:
Have your ducts cleaned
Replace carpet in high traffic areas. A long-term, economical solution is to install laminate flooring, which can last upwards of 15 years with little maintenance.
Paint your home’s interior.
Replace the gaskets and washers in your faucets to prevent leaks.
Ten years:
Re-paint your home’s exterior. Depending on the type of paint and materials used for your siding, you should budget to repaint every 10 years.
Refinish your hardwood floors. This may need to be done sooner—or later—depending on how highly trafficked your floors are.
15 years:
Be prepared to replace all or part of your roof, depending on the materials used and any warranties applied.
Laminate flooring may need to be replaced.
Siding may need to be replaced on your home’s exterior.
25 years:
CSA approved windows reach the end of their lifetime at 25 years, and will likely need to be replaced.
It’s never too soon to start your own household maintenance schedule, and to start saving for those larger eventualities down the road. The savings to your pocket book as well the peace of mind that comes with preparedness will go a long way to ensure long-term enjoyment and comfort in your home.
Ready to start your dream home search? Or need a plan to sell?
Former show home, corner unit with all the upgrades! In fact, it still presents new like a Showhome too!
One of the BEST benefits on this corner unit and where it is positioned in the complex is the all-day SUNSHINE, making this home cheerful and a happy place to dwell. Decked out in all the Showhome extras including upgraded appliances, stunning granite countertops, FULLY finished 9ft basement with full wet bar /serving counter large windows, storage-built in’s, walk in master bedroom shower, all window coverings and upscale lighting throughout. This unit does not back a busy road (Lessard) it backs west and enjoys beautiful sunsets on the private deck. Located right in the heart of west ends walking district – walk to everything from here and fabulous walking trails too!
