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Airdrie, AB Real Estate News

By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
DISAPPOINTED because of NO SHOW BUYERS!! I haven't had something like this happen to me in years - I booked 10 homes to show this buyer and his family.  Confirmed the night before prior to heading off to bed.  They acknowledge - yes we will be there.   I confirmed all the homes to view with all the Realtors.  Pulled up in front of the home we all agreed would be the first on our tour.   (Yes, the buyer knew the location, and how to get there) I waited and waited - called, text and no response.  I even checked my email for some sign of life.  A BIG FAT NOTHING. BUYERS MISSING IN ACTION and me waiting - I had to call all the Realtors and let them know so their sellers were NOT inconvenienced any further. YES, I'm venting.  BUT WAIT.......THESE buyers should be PUT ON THE WALL OF SHAME.  A...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
             Time and time again, I hear from people looking for a plumber or someone to help them out when it rains.  They have water in their basement and don't know how to stop it.  Well in some cases its the downspouts - either they are not attached to the home or they are pointing directly at the foundation.  Honestly sometimes it can be a simple fix, and then again it might not be.  Recently we've had a lot of rain in our area.  This sure puts the test on your foundation and grade of your yard. Now if its a grading issue this may cost money and time to fix.  BUT its worth while doing, as if and when you go to sell - it will show up on a home inspection report and cost you deal or money. As a Realtor and local homeowner myself - I can empathize on this situation and know having wat...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
Sold this fully finished 5 Bedroom Bi-level in less than a week.  Lush back yard with room for whatever you wish plus its beside a play park.  Sheer delight was felt by my clients who jumped for joy when their home sold so quickly.  Actually, based on all the statistics we anticipated a longer list life.  Heck the yard sign was just put up on day 3 of the listing. Just goes to show you when you price a home right, take plenty of photo's and load the home up all over the internet - something works.   (price, condition and location- factor into the sale of a home) Now if all my listings sold so quickly - I could bask in this great roller coaster business we call Real Estate.        
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By Rob Johnstone, A Reputation Built on Trust
(ReMax)
What a house! Spacious, custom built, perfectly located and pampered home awaits your inspection. Oodles of features to discover: Fully finished walkout. Meticulously landscaped and backs onto a park. Shimmering, flawless hardwood throughout the main floor and much of the upstairs. If you appreciate a great kitchen you'll love this one. Gourmet sized and sun drenched overlooking the yard. The nook easily accommodates six and step outside through the French doors to your raised deck and immaculate landscaped yard with perennials, shrubs and trees. There's even a hot tub included. Terrific floor plan, Just around the corner from the kitchen area there is a generously sized main floor flex room. Oh, upstairs, don't miss the amazing bonus room. It's open and airy with vaulted ceilings and a...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
I'm currently reading the book "CRUSH IT" written by Gary Vaynerchuk.  I'm at the part where he's suggesting we set our own brand, and make ourselves different from the rest of pack. I have to admit I have been doing this, just ask anyone in my area.  He does use the words, it has to come from your passion.  I enjoy selling Real Estate, and meeting new people making the connections.  BUT what has been coming to me without any provocation is requests to help people with their own marketing.  Mortgage brokers, Local Business Owners wanting ideas for their own campagin ad ideas.  They are asking me, and are willing to pay me to help. Somewhere this must be the "Sign" I was looking for, my creative juices may get to flow.  So - I'm going to explore this - you never know right? I read at lea...
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
Summer can be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also the season that bugs like best. Here are some tips to keep pests away as the weather warms up. Stop that ant trail.Sprinkle a line of cinnamon around the areas where you've spotted ant armies. They don't like the smell and won't cross over the line. For a pest-proof picnic, sprinkle cinnamon around the edge of your blanket. Shoo, flies.A bunch of basil is not only a tasty addition to your summer salads but also keeps away flies. Cut a few leaves and place them on the table when you're eating outdoors to ward off flying pests. Banish bees.Keep the striped stingers away from your outdoor festivities by tying a few dryer sheets around chair legs or tree branches. The bees can't stand the smell. Natural mosquito repellent.Get...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
"The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce is committed to promote, represent and enhance the interests of Airdrie's business community."   Having just been elected on the board of Directors, I'm having a hard time curbing my enthusiam.  I look forward to a great year, and working right along with some wonderful business owners in Airdrie.  Check out the website for more information on what the Chamber is All About and what we are up to. www.airdriechamber.ab.ca Events happen monthly with keynote speakers - the next one is our own Mayor Linda Bruce. August 20th - Is the Annual Golf Tournament held in Airdrie at Woodside Golf Course. Giving Back to our Community and having fun while doing it is what I am all about.  See ya around.  
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
As a local RESIDENT of Airdrie for over 13 years, and a volunteer - I support local business and groups on our wonderful city. Don't be fooled by the BIG CITY SLICKERS who think they know what drives our city.  Visiting our City Hall recently - and speaking with Leona Esau - she mentioned our city population is projected to reach 42,000. Thinking of moving to our wonderful city - just 12 minutes from Calgary. There are so many activities and events taking place - come for a visit meet some of us local residents. You may just be pleasantly impressed with our city - and consider a move.   AIRDRIE TERRI - 403-827-4663
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
DISHWASHER & MICROWAVE These tips reveal how you can get more years out of your dishwasher and microwave. Average Life Span: 7-12 years Go for powder soap, not gel.Powders easily dissolve in water, while gels create buildup that can eat away at the inside of your dishwasher. Extend life: 3 years Skip the pre-rinse.Leaving small food particles on your dishes rather than rinsing them first will give you a better wash. When enzymes in food interact with chemicals in the soap, it boosts the scrubbing effect. You're less likely to have to re-wash, which eases strain on your dishwasher. Extend life: 3 years Microwave: Average Life Span: 5-10 years Keep it clean.Wipe down your microwave weekly to prevent spills from generating extra heat that can damage the unit. Extend life: 3 years. Open the...
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
  In talking to our local appliance repairman, I got some interesting insights.  Did you know that the  Average Life Span of a Gas Range is 17 Years and if your range is electric expect  15 years.   Here's some tips to help you extend the life of these expensive appliances;    Protect the control panel. Most stoves made in the last 15 years break down too soon due to the control panel. Why? Because the panel is behind the back burners which causes it to overheat. To nix this problem heat large pots on the front burners only. Extend stove life: 3 years    Prevent cracks. If your stove has radiant or halogen burners, always place a pot on the burner before you turn it on. A cold pot coming in contact with a hot burner can crack the stove top, requiring a costly repair.    Wipe up spills f...
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
By finding and fixing drafts and leaks, you'll have a warmer house and save money. Here are simple fixes that'll have you cutting your energy usage - and bills - by up to 40%. 1. Electrical Outlets.Look at all exterior wall outlets by unscrewing the plates and peaking underneath. If there's no insulation, they're likely letting in cold air. Head to the hardware store. Pick up foam insulation specially made for outlets. Just cut to size, insert in the outlet and re-cover.        2. Windows.Pull back any curtains or blinds, then hold a lit candle near the window frame. Any flickering of the flame is a sign of draft. Calk away any leaks. There's no need to be an expert handyman or buy tools you'll hardly use. Instead use rope caulk (available in hardware stores). It comes in cords, and all...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
Coopers Crossing is well designed and beautifully landscaped with six kilometer pathway system connecting every corner of this hillside development.  Airdrie's most prestigious address is the Estates of Cooper's Crossing with estate homes on lots up to 74 feet wide. Many major stores are not too far from this community in Airdrie.  Walmart, Home Depot, Canadian Tire, Superstore are all close at hand.  Coopers Crossing will ultimately be home to approximately 5,000 people when finished.  If you would like more information on the community or any other community in our city.  Just let me know                                              Terri Stephens ~ Century 21 Castlewood Agencies                                                               403-827-4663  (Home!)
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
Safer veggie-chopping.Keep your cutting board from sliding all over the counter: Simply wrap a few rubber bands around both ends, and it wont budge. Open jars.Stubborn lid? Wrap a thick rubber band around it – it'll give you the grip you need to twist open. Arrange flowers.Take a tip from expert florists: To make a bouquet stand up perfectly, use rubber bands to tie together the flowers. Use an opaque vase so no one will see the secret to your arrangement. Slip-proof hangers.Stop heavy sweaters and dresses with thin straps from slipping off hangers by wrapping both sides of a plastic hanger with rubber bands to keep them in place. Revive a broom.Broom's fibers bent out of shape? Slip a rubber band around them overnight and in the morning your broom will be as good as new.   For more Hou...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
Did you know that the buyer will have the right to have the property inspections completed by a professional or otherwise qualified inspector?  There are no Alberta regulatory Rules that govern or license property inspectors.  There is an association but it is not a requirement to belong. Neither the seller nor their representative have any say in who the buyer engages to perform an inspection, unless there is a written agreement or term inserted into the contract.  The buyer is at liberty to use a friend, relative, inspection company, plumber, electrician or any other person they choose to perform an inspection. The buyers has a valid reason not to give notice to waive/release the condition if:  Three options are given"  The inspection is unacceptable, deficiencies are in excess of 1% ...
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
Did you know last year our population grew by 11 people per day. Our city has the capacity for 83,000 people currently, and after the next annexation there will be room for 120,000 people. That "Think Airdrie" is a new website to be launched, focusing on working, playing and shopping in Airdrie.  That "its all here for you" in Airdrie.  (you will be able to type in a question and find your answer) Our city is growing, and had an 11% increase in housing and commercial development.  We surpassed the 5.5% mark the city had projected.  Airdrie is the fastest growing city - more than Calgary, Toronto and Canada!!!  
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
For years Airdrie had an Auto Wrecker beside the Railway Tracks behind Towerlane mall.  The 3.41 acre site, now vacant and owned by GFM Developments has now  been redesignate to as Central Business District.   The additional commercial land will be a welcome addition to our bustling commercial district.    This land close to downtown Airdrie, Alberta, will be transformed into walkable retail space and offices in accordance with the Airdrie Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan.   While the land initially had some contaminants left over from the Auto Wrecker,  Alberta Environment has determined the site can be made suitable for the proposed commercial development.      It's very exciting to see this land coming available for the enhancement of Airdrie Alberta's bustling Downtown area.    
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
Things are FLUSH in Airdrie   In yet just another effort to assist Airdrie Alberta residents to think green.  Airdrie has announced the Toilet rebate System.  Yes, you can actually save money buy saving money,  Replace you existing toilets with one to the Low Flush Toilets and save money via a rebate , then save even more money on your water bill while doing the right Green thing conserving water.   Here is a PDF of the Eligible Toilet List         Now there has been some debate on the issue of low flow toilets clogging.  However, recent research has scientifically proven that even without other water flow (from showers or sinks), six-litre toilets can carry waste in both residential and commercial situations.         
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By Terri Stephens, REALTOR, Calgary & Airdrie 403-827-4663
(CIR REALTY )
I had several occasions where a home inspector almost crashed a deal over comments that were not appropriate.  With a first time home buyer you DON'T comment on the decor or the weird layout of a home.  This just freaks them out more.  Yes, a door is suppose to be there in this plan?  I don't care you think it should be over somewhere else.  Maybe they have to justify their $400 to $500 fees?  I don't know, but structural and mold are issues.  Don't nearly blow a sale because the current home owner hasn't put a downspout 6 feet away from a house for run off.  (so 5 feet is a deal breaker???) Don't go and comment the entire roof needs to be replaced - with a couple of shingles needing replacement, otherwise only on a 8 year old roof.  And Worst of all, Please Please don't comment on the ...
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
Today's popular wood and ceramic floors can be enhanced with the right rug. The right rug can work wonders. To achieve your desired effect and make any room look... Bigger. Choose wall-to-wall carpeting that matches the wall color. Unbroken lines always look longest.    Smaller. Lay an area rug diagonally across the room. The bare floor spaces seem to disappear.    Warmer. Opt for carpeting with layers of warm colors like brick, terra cotta or burgundy.    Cooler. Try bare wood or tile floors, skipping carpet altogether.    Richer. Use multiple oriental rugs, as many as you can fit allowing them to overlap here and there.    Coordinated. Choose a mini-pattern that incorporates the main colors in a room full of fabrics.   For more Ideas on how to sell your Home call Bill Jones 403-710-1...
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By Bill Jones, Realtor (403-701-1739) Airdrie & Calgary Area Homes and Condos
(Discovery Real Estate Ltd. - "Homes By Jones")
Constantly battling tummy bugs or colds and flus? Your desk at the office or in your home could be the culprit. Researchers found 400 times more germs at office work stations than in bathrooms. Fortunately, it's easy to keep your desk from making you sick. Here are a few tips to get you started:  Toss unwrapped snacks.Unopened packaged foods are fine but anything you unwrapped or that's been opened is a bacteria magnet.  Do this once a day.Wipe your keyboard, mouse, phone and desk with disinfectant wipes. Because so many people touch these areas, they're hotspots for spreading germs like the cold virus.  Cut the clutter.They may look neat but women's desks are actually germier than men's. Women tend to keep more things around, such as candy dishes and tissues that invite co-workers to t...
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