Midwest Canada Minute - April 24, 2011 - 04/27/11 12:17 PM
The New Normal:  Multi-generational Housing 
We are seeing an increasing number of homes with three generations living in them - children, parents, and grandparents - all under one roof.
There are several reasons for this trend, the most common being the cost of third party child care.  Grandmothers, even grandfathers, have again become the live-in nannies for their adult children, just as it was often the case in the early twentieth century.
Multi-generational housing is particularly popular with western Canada's growing immigrant population and those from the Maritimes here for the employment opportunities the region's oil economy offers. 
Asian clients often … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - April 17, 2011 - 04/19/11 12:04 PM
I Want It Now 
They were rather a demanding pair of clients who talked to me every day about the house I was building for their loved ones.  It was a rather simple structure with two bedrooms up, main floor living and dining space with access to a recreation room in the basement.  The temporary housing being used while waiting for possession was quite adequate, but the dream home was first and foremost in their minds.  It didn't matter that I had other obligations and clients; these folk wanted quick results.
More and more that is how customers treat Realtors, and … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - April 10, 2011 - 04/11/11 02:56 PM
A Creek Runs Through It
I never truly believe it is spring until I see Forty Mile Creek in flood.  This year it happened about a week later than normal, not surprising given the slow warm-up we have had.  For decades our family has held an informal lottery, with each member guessing the date and time they expect to see it running.  My mother almost always won it.  Her ability to predict the date was uncanny.
For some reason, we didn't this year; I think everybody was just too tired of winter to care! I promise to resurrect the tradition next … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - April 03, 2011 - 04/05/11 04:21 PM
The Buyer is There with Us  
I don't know about other Realtors but when I am going through a property for the first time, not only am I ascertaining its condition, I also try to think of the buyer group(s) it will attract.  If I am going to be giving an opinion of value to assist the seller with their marketing, I will confirm my thoughts with them, as no one knows the attributes of a property better than the present owner.
For example, a three bedroom up home priced so that the mortgage payments are similar to monthly rental will … (0 comments)