Sheila Atienza Blog - Real Estate & Mortgage

Can you afford a one bedroom apartment/condo?

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 13:55:03 -0600

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - Can you afford a one bedroom apartment/condo?

In this day and age when the real estate market offers more inventories, the renters or
first-time buyers could see the upside aspect of this current trend.

If you're a couple, or perhaps single, and currently renting, have you thought
about how much can you qualify for, if you try and go through a process of
mortgage pre-qualification?

Do you know if you qualify for a mortgage?

Many people may be interested to own a home. However, there may be some factors
to look into. These are total income to support a mortgage, credit history, not to
mention assets and liabilities or debts.

If you need to learn more about mortgages, please visit: www.iclickmortgage.com

Are you looking for a Richmond Townhouse with Two bedrooms?

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 13:37:24 -0600

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - Are you looking for a Richmond Townhouse with Two bedrooms?

Good news for buyers with small household members looking to purchase a property
in the city of Richmond.

As per the MLS record today, November 29th, there are at least seven 2-bedroom
townhouse units that are offered in the price range of 300K to 350K.

Let say somebody puts up an offer for a Richmond townhouse unit at a purchase price of
$325K and the offer gets accepted, how much will a mortgage borrower be paying for this
property?

If one qualifies in this category, and gets approved for a loan amount requested,
with five percent down (which in this scenario would be $16,250), mortgage borrowers
may be looking at atleast a mortgage payment of $1670+ per month (as per their approved
credit).

So, if a family is currently renting a property in the amount as if you could be paying a
mortgage, how does the idea of being a homeowner occur to you?

I think it is very timely that one considers what this current market situation offers.
Find out if this fits your property criteria by sending your inquiry.

Are you looking for a Richmond Townhouse with Three bedrooms?

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 13:32:51 -0600

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - November 29, 2008

If you have been waiting for so long to own a three bedroom townhouse unit in Richmond, here's
great info for you.

Did you know that you could find a Richmond townhouse that offers three bedrooms at a price
that ranges from 320K to 350K.

As per the MLS record today, November 29th, there are at least seven 3-bedroom
townhouse units available for homebuyers.

This is a good chance for a homeseeker with a medium-size family looking for a home that
has reasonable living space at an affordable price.

Viewing of units may be requested by sending your inquiry (email)
or calling 778-896-4493

Home Purchasers in the Current Market Trend

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:31:44 -0600

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - Home Purchasers in the Current Market Trend

The real estate industry as in any field has its cycle. In today's trend where there are more listings available, people prospecting for home opportunities are in a greater advantage. In Greater Vancouver for example, not only that home purchasers today have the benefit of choosing from a great list of inventories of homes in the Lower Mainland, they are also looking at the idea of repositioning their hard-earned money or savings.

So who are the best candidates in today's market? Renters, first-time buyers or either home purchasers needing to move up or downsize, can look at the best buying opportunities in the current market trend.

If one has a stable income that can service a mortgage, with reasonable savings for downpayment, not to mention a proven track record of good credit, and looking for a suitable property, the opportunity for home ownership might be calling you now!

If you are currently in the Pre-Qualification stage of home buying and would like to consider the better option available, please send your inquiry today for your HOME BUYING NEEDS!

How Affordable to Own a Richmond Terra Nova Townhouse Unit?

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:35:57 -0600

Richmond British Columbia, Canada - How Affordable to Own a Richmond Terra Nova Townhouse Unit?

In order to have a sample calculation of how much can a home buyer afford a unit in this admirable Richmond Terra Nova neighbourhood, let us take for example a particular townhouse unit that is selling below 470K, which was recently featured in this blog site.

If a property is being purchased at a price of $469,800 by qualified mortgage borrowers, and the buyers have savings equivalent to five percent (5%) of this amount ( which in this case would at least be $23,500), then the loan amounting to 95% of the purchase price will have to be advanced by a lender approving of a mortgage sought by the borrowers.

In this case, the qualified mortgage applicants or buyers are looking at paying an approximate monthly amortization of $2,400+ (based on approved credit, with 35-year amortization period), at an estimated interest rate of 5.34%.

Somehow, if you are a renter in this Richmond area, you may be looking at the same, if not almost close to the monthly amount for rental payment for a home that fits a medium-size family.

So, if one has financial resources, with track record of good credit and stable income that can service the mortgage payments for a property, then home ownership may be calling you now.

As home buyers or mortgage borrowers may have different financial profile, It is best to look at your financial options and find an opportunity in this home buyers' market. Please call 778-896-4493 to find out what options may be available for you.

The Terra Nova Neighbourhood in Richmond BC

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:44:31 -0600

The Terra Nova Neighbourhood in Richmond BC

When one is looking at home ownership possibility, location is apparently the very very first thing to look at. "What kind of environment does it have?" is a usual question and a great factor to consider.

As several properties in the Terra Nova area are available in the current market, it is very timely to feature the neighbourhood so people may have a better idea of what this popular Richmond area promises.

If one has to describe this enchanting neighbourhood, one can't help but mention that Terra Nova indeed is a place for nature lovers.

The setting is unique in such a way that one enjoys the beauty and view of mountains, river and wildlife while strolling along the west side dyke. Travellers do enjoy the adventure either through walking or biking.

The location is a plus as it is just across from the airport area.

Art and photography lovers can certainly grasp a good view of migrating birds or some other
interesting subject that may be experienced by going to this Richmond Park.

Great Terra Nova Townhome Unit Ideal for Family!

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:33:56 -0600

Great Terra Nova Townhome Unit ideal for family!

Here's a Terra Nova Townhome Unit that offers great features and benefits.

For a family that's looking for a property that is located near school, transportation,
shops and various social services, this unit might be something you might be waiting for.

In addition to proximity and access to convenience, the unit certainly boasts of quality
and style. The property has new carpet, laminate flooring, moulding, kitchen tiles; and
4th bedroom could be an office or rec/hobby room. The unit has also front yard with garden.

This unit may be viewed on Saturday or Sunday between 1:30-3:00pm.
You may also call 778-896-4493 for other details.

Richmond Terra Nova Town Houses

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:24:43 -0600

Richmond Terra Nova TownHomes

There about sixteen (16) units in the Richmond Terra Nova neigbourhood actively listed as of today in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

This shows that home buyers who are from Richmond or even those who come from the neighbouring cities can now have the opportunity to look into that option of owning a piece of property in a setting that
reflects nature and admirable community.

Home owners in the Terra Nova neighbourhood do enjoy access to easy shopping in the Terra
Nova Shopping Mall, Save-on-Foods, Starbucks, and other retail stores, banking and health
services located in No. 1 Road and Westminster Highway; not to mention a short walk to dining
and fitness facilities.

If you would like to view the units available in the area of Terra Nova, please call 778-896-4493 to arrange a viewing schedule.

Where Will You Park your Money? Part II

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 01:21:28 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - If one is seriously looking at various investment options, one can't help but notice that anywhere you park your money you are likely to get affected by how things are going these days. How do you ensure that you would still be in a better position?

What if you have exhausted the idea of investing in a real property locally, where market continues to slow down and all that? Somehow, isn't it about time to widen one's horizons and see what offshore investing could mean for one?

Remember, your goal is to find the means to grow your hard-earned money whether you got through your business or employment.

I guess looking at investment possibilities at a country you are familiar with, or where you may have come from, prior to migrating to your current residence is a good place to start. Filipino-Canadians for example have good options in looking at real estate investments as Condo prices there may range from as low as CAD 25K and up.

Real estate investment decisions are subjective and depends on their resources as well. Leverage through home equity could be a good source if one has substantial amount and can be serviced through their incoming cash.

One can learn various real estate investment opportunities by visiting: http://iclickproperty.com

Homebuyer's Credit

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:45:57 -0500

Richmond BC, Canada- Prospective borrowers and homebuyers who have had or likely to go through credit problems are often faced by a question on the impact of public record such as debt consolidation/counselling or bankruptcy when applying for a mortgage.

Generally, record such as bankruptcy as well as debt consolidation/consumer proposal will likely stay in the credit report for a long period of time. In Canada for example, record appears up to 7 years for bankcruptcy. Lenders or banks look at the borrower's profile based on re-established credit (after the bankruptcy or after one had concluded a consumer proposal).

A mortgage broker can look at an application and give advice on client's particular situation prior to sending it to lender or bank.

Down payment certainly can help. How much downpayment you are able and willing to put up also counts (let's say 5% , 10% or 20%) and depending on the type and value of property you are buying, the amount may be substantial.

In addition, credit scores of applicant will have to satisfy lending requirement.

Applicants who have may have some credit problems ideally try to come up with at least 20% down in addition to acceptable credit scores.

To learn more information about getting a mortgage in Canada, please visit: http://sheila.iclickmortgage.com or http://imambo.com/clnt/dominion/sheila/plyr/

Convert your Rental Payments into Mortgage Payments?

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:06:25 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - A usual question of a prospective homebuyer is whether it is a good time for him or her to finally buy a home, or perhaps, wait for a little while, until he or she feels that the market is totally down. In this way, the homebuyer thinks he or she can speculate and avail of a much lower property price.

Hence, the wait-and-see attitude is evident. Thus, resorting to renting backed by his or her own reasons is what he or she is likely to act upon.

Renting for some people is probably something they prefer. Who could argue that?

However while in the period of waiting, a renter still pays his or her rent. The amount in the long run could be quite substantial. Let's say you pay for your monthly housing rental for eight hundred dollars ($800.00). In twelve months, you actually had accumulated an amount of nine thousand six hundred dollars ($9,600). This amount goes to your landlord (who may be holding a mortgage on the property you are renting and pays the mortgage to the lender).

When you convert your rental payments into mortgage payments, the amount that you pay for your own property goes directly to your lender. You will be in a better position because as time goes by, the property that you now own can let you enjoy leverage as you build equity.

If you are currently renting and would like to see if home buying could be a good option for you, you may browse through www.iclickproperty.com or call me at 778-896-4493

Thinking about your Mortgage???

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:37:04 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - Thinking about your Mortgage???

Is your mortgage up for renewal?
Do you need to access funds through your home equity?
Do you want to grow your investments?
Do you need cash flow for your business?

When you have a mortgage, the responsibility to look at your mortgage in every aspect of it is something that you will have consider prior to deciding on your next step.

You will have to look at the following questions and see if you are quite ready to deal on your mortgage:

What interest rate was offered to you by your bank? Do you need to shop for rates? Is there an effect to your credit scores when you do the shopping yourself? Are you comfortable with your bank officer? Do you know what questions to ask? Do you know exactly what mortgage products are are available from your bank? Were you offered these products?

How do you know when you are actually getting a good deal, if not the best deal around?

Consulting to learn more about your options is always recommended. A mortgage broker can help you, as they work for you and not the bank or lender. Mortgage broker doesn't charge you fees. The bank or lender pays the mortgage broker for helping you meet your needs. Fees are only charged on situations that require a challenging solution. If you need to inquire about mortgage, please visit: http://www.iclickmortgage.com

Where Will You Park your Money?

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:13:55 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - If you are in a scenario where you have savings in the bank that lets you earn somewhere between two to three percent return, would you be content or satisfied with the rate of return?

I guess, you may start to contemplate where will you move your money into so you can get better return. Hence, some may be tempted to look at the stock market. Unfortunately the ups and downs of the stock market industry presents volatility. That's a fact. How vulnerable could you be with your money?

It seems that anywhere you go these days, you are likely to get hurt with your money, no matter how big or little you've got. You still want to be in a better position.

Investing in a real property where it lets you earn rental income, leverage through home equity or speculate and trade could be another option.

I think it is always best to look at your current position. Make an assessment of your assets and liabilities. In this way, you know how well you are doing. Your objective is simply to find the means to grow the money that you've earned hard through your business or employment. You just can't simply let go of it by not doing the best evaluation you could do to your current situation.

More Apartment/Condo Units near Richmond Centre for Homebuyers

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:31:34 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada - For those of you who live or work in Richmond, or its neighbouring cities like Vancouver or Surrey, and have been trying to get into the housing market for the first-time, this is the right opportunity for you to look into the apartment listings available in the area near Richmond Centre.

Record of property listings from MLS as of yesterday, September 22, 2008, in Moffatt alone, at least thirty four units (34) are currently in the market, while Minoru has around thirty six units (36).

Both Moffatt and Minoru areas are considered to be hot locations in the city of Richmond because of their proximity to schools, recreation centres, parks, convenience stores, shopping mall, gasoline stations, library and of course transportation.

When you are thinking of moving into a new home, it is best to consider how much you can actually enjoy the benefit of being in a place that is synonymous to comfort and affordability. Not only that you are saving time and energy but also money, because every bit of your need is almost just a few steps away from home.

Viewing of units in Moffatt and Minoru for prospective homebuyers may be requested by calling 778-896-4493.

Extras and Opportunities for Homeowners

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 16:35:26 -0500

The time is now to look at the untapped value or riches you may have accumulated all those years as homeowner. Does home equity ring a bell to you? Have you built enough of it?

Have you thought of investing by leveraging? Others have invested and multiplied their income and wealth through the value of their owned-real properties. Even a single owned property can create amazing opportunities such as a source of small business capital or down payment for income-property unit.

Some qualified homeowners do consider owning more properties like a vacation home or a rental condo unit. The right timing or opportunity so they say helps one consider and decide whether a home equity mortgage may be appropriate to one's situation.

If you would like to try and find out if this would be a good option for you, I welcome inquiries by phone (778-896-4493) or email.

Searching for BC Properties Made Better at iClickProperty.com

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:59:35 -0500

Now more than ever, searching for properties via the net in Greater Vancouver made easier and better. With just one press iClickProperty.com will take you to the most up-to-date inventory listings made available and possible 24/7 through the Multiple Listing Service.

The service helps potential homebuyers and existing homesellers
match their needs through the professional service by the members of the Board. In effect, MLS creates a useful link between REALTORS and Clients.

Launched recently at iClickProperty.com, Property Search takes the net surfers searching for a home to the mlslink. This gives them options to choose the cities they are interested in, such as Richmond, Burnaby East, Burnaby North, Burnaby South, Surrey, North Delta, Vancouver East,
Vancouver West, Coquitlam and others.

Sheila Atienza, a Richmond-based Realtor who has been serving the needs of first-time homebuyers as well as homesellers across Lower Mainland, invites current renters and existing and would-be-homeowners
to check out iClickProperty.com regularly for more updates and what other opportunities available for them.

Other relevant real estate and mortgage links are accessed through www.iclickproperty.com and www.iclickmortgage.com

Residential Properties at Multiple Realty

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:38:21 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada.

Property listings at Multiple Realty Richmond office as of the 23rd day of June 2008 have been posted with around fifty two units (52) of residential single detached houses.

While attached properties such as Apartment/Condos have at least an average of forty five (45)units across Lower Mainland; and around eleven units for townhouse and duplex units.

Homebuyers can check out these properties through http://www.iclickproperty.com

First-time homebuyers and renters who have been contemplating of owning a home can arrange to view the properties by calling 778-896-4493. Likewise, application for pre-approval of mortgage is available for buyers particularly in the areas of Richmond, Burnaby, Vancouver, New Westminster and Surrey, who have not obtained approval as of this time from bank or lender. Applicants can visit: http://www.iclickmortgage.com

Colonial Drive in Richmond

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 14:05:50 -0500

Richmond, BC.

There are currently one 2br-apartment unit and three townhouse units posted in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in the area of Colonial Drive Richmond, as of today (October 29, 2007).

The 2-br apartment unit is priced at less than $200K while the townhouse units range from $238K to almost $300K.

If you are commuting, you can take the transit bus no. 410 to get to and from here. To specifically have an overview of the area, please click on this map:

Colonial Drive Richmond

Ideally, this neighbourhood suits a starter family and first-time buyer. Primary and secondary schools are close by, as well as shops located in No. 1 Road corner Francis.

Below is a link to:

Hugh Boyd Secondary School

How to get into the housing market

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 13:35:42 -0500

If you are currently renting and thinking of finally converting your rental payments into mortgage payments, there' simply a basic process you will have to go through.

As a Home Ownership Consultant, I usually recommend that clients get a mortgage pre-approval. In this way, you know the price range of the property you would eventually purchase.

When the pre-approval has been put in placed, shopping for your home choice comes next. Usually, it is best that you are represented by a buyer's agent. So when you put up an offer, the agent can work on your behalf taking into consideration your situation, condition and interest.

If everything goes well in the transaction and your offer gets accepted, you will have to finally submit the documents the lender and mortgage broker have asked from you to prepare during the earlier stage.

The process can be overwhelming. But when you are working with a real estate professional, then you have somebody supporting and assisting you all throughout. If you're contemplating of getting into the market as a buyer, let me interview you to find out what could be your best option. You can write/email or call me directly.

North Burnaby Townhouse - Open to View

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:55:35 -0500

A property located in Orion, North Burnaby is currently being featured in this web log and my real estate site: http://www.iclickproperty.com/

Depending on your housing objectives, this townhouse, is ideal for family as it boasts its proximity to all levels of schools, from daycare to primary school/secondary or university (Simon Fraser). It also has easy access to Lougheed Town Centre, skytrain and bus/transit.

The public is invited, specifically, would-be first-time buyers or repeat purchasers who may be moving up (from apartment living), or may be downsizing (from a single-detached house).

Likewise, if you are planning to relocate to North Burnaby, this place may be ideal for you. Here's an opportunity to view the townhouse this weekend:

Public Open House

Orion Pl, Burnaby
Oct 27-28 2-4 pm Sat. & Sun.

For other details, please call: 778-896-4493

Click here to view map

Featured Property in North Burnaby: Townhouse

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 14:00:16 -0500

Here's a featured property located in Orion Place, Burnaby, British Columbia. It is a 4-bedroom end-unit townhouse: 3 bedrooms in the upper floor and one in basement. With a large private yard, one can enjoy gardening or simply spending time relaxing.

Great location, near school, shopping mall, transit; Very bright, convenient and great starter home; Very ideal for family. The property is currently listed at $338,800. Contact me directly for viewing and other details.

Why home ownership is attractive to Renters or First-time Buyers?

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:30:33 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada -

These days, renters and first-time home buyers are amazed to find out that one can actually own a home with as little money as possible. Of course, it's been known to many prospective home owners that there's such a thing as zero down or five percent down payment based on approved credit.

With the advent of better financing programs, owning a home in BC, Canada, specifically, has become easier today. The extended amortization period of up to 480 months (40 years), will actually reduce the monthly payment of borrowers. In essence, home renters can enter the housing market by converting their rental payments into mortgage payments.

Although home buyers will have to consider some costs involved, such as legal, property tax, transfer tax and home improvement, they are positive and excited about the idea of finally having a place they can call their own.

Richmond Properties: Apartments near Richmond Centre

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:08:20 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada -

Living in the central part of the city is an obvious advantage. Not only does one have an access to convenience, dining, recreation and parks but also proximity to transportation.

Central Richmond, for example, has attracted many home purchasers in the city of Richmond, especially the first-time home buyers. Streets like Minoru, Moffatt, No. 3 Road, Westminster Highway, Saba Road, Cook Road, Buswell, Park Road, Bennett, General Currie and Granville Avenue have been the target location of many home shoppers.

A first-time home buyer, renter or investor can still afford a one-bedroom apartment unit in the range of CAD189K to 225K.

Richmond Properties: Apartments near Lansdowne Centre

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:03:07 -0500

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada -

If you are trying to search for a place to live in Richmond, BC, it is ideal to find an apartment unit that is accessible to commercial establishments, convenience stores and shopping mall like Lansdowne Centre.

Although, many units are for rent, some apartments may be available for sale. A few of the streets located in the area of Lansdowne Centre are Ackroyd Road, Cooney Road, Arcadia, Alderbridge, Kwantlen Street, Alexandra, Hazelbridge, Leslie Road and of course Lansdowne Road.

Whether you are first-time home buyer, renter or investor you can still find a one-bedroom apartment unit in the range of CAD179K to 199K.

Renters and First-time Buyers, Owning a Home in BC made easy

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:41:32 -0500

British Columbia, Canada - Have you been renting for a long time? Haven't the thought of owning a home occurred to you?

Shelter as we all agree is the most basic need in human's existence. In fact, regardless if you rent or own your home, you are putting nevertheless a portion of your hard-earned income to meet our dwelling need. That is why, more people are still fascinated with the idea of home ownership. Not to mention, the leverage and advantage of getting top dollar value through home equity, putting the home owner in a better position as far as buying power is concerned.

Before one initiates looking for a home, purchasers are advised to look at their financial health. Asking the following questions: "How much can i/we afford? How's my credit score? Assets? Liabilities? What are the financing options available?"

Here's an exciting opportunity for would-be first-time buyers:

Did you know that you can borrow up to $20,000 worth of your RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan), if eligible, to use as down payment? Each borrower is entitled to this maximum amount. So, if this amount is applied, the difference of this downpayment from the purchase price shall be the loanable amount (first mortgage- home purchase) based on approved credit and qualification.

Another interesting aspect of home purchasing at this point, is the fact that the amortization can now be extended from 25 years to any of the following number of years: 30 years, 35 years, and even up to 40 years, again based on approved credit and qualification.

What does this mean to the home buyers? Well, this indicates that payments (monthly, bi-weekly or weekly) have become more affordable and convenient on the part of the homeowners.