buying: Consider Buying a Home With Some “Undesirable” Features - 11/21/15 11:05 PM
When you’re looking for a home, chances are, you have a checklist of things you want. Two bathrooms… a finished basement… a great looking kitchen… an expansive deck…
But what happens when a home you see has a feature that doesn’t quite measure up? Perhaps the basement is poorly renovated. Or the kitchen is small. Or there’s only one bathroom. Should you say “No”?
Here’s something to consider: A home that has a few undesirable features will probably cost less. And, those savings may more than cover the costs of any needed upgrades or renovations.
So don’t pass up on a house simply because … (3 comments)

buying: Don’t Forget To Get What You Want - 11/13/15 10:44 PM
Shopping for a new home can be a dizzying experience. There are so many things to think about, it’s all too easy to lose focus on the most important consideration of all: getting the home you really want. Here are five questions to keep front-of-mind:
Is it located in the neighbourhood I want? Where a property is located can have a dramatic impact on how much you enjoy it. Make sure the neighbourhood has the characteristics you’re looking for.
Does it have the look I want? Looks aren’t everything, but they are important. A good looking property, inside and out, can make living … (0 comments)

buying: Putting a Price on Lifestyle - 10/19/15 06:58 AM
Shopping for a house is as much a lifestyle decision as it is a financial one. After all, unless you’re a professional real estate investor, you’re not just buying a house – you’re buying a home. 
Sure, there are important financial matters to consider, such as mortgage rates, payments and resale values. But when deciding whether or not to make an offer, you also need to think about how that home will impact the quality of your life. So, it’s important not to let an attractive list price distract you from considering a home that has features that may be worth paying … (2 comments)

buying: Beware of Bargain Hunting - 09/26/15 01:33 AM
When shopping for anything — clothes, MP3 players, even homes — it’s natural to look for a bargain. We all want to pay the lowest price possible.
However, this attitude can get in the way of finding, and getting, the home we want. In fact, many people miss great opportunities because their price expectations are too low.
Find out what the current market price is for the type of home you’re considering. Then set your expectations accordingly. If you do, you’ll stand a much better chance of finding the home of your dreams.
Your Real Estate Connection: Marina Gavrylyuk
Real Estate Agent with Sutton Group … (2 comments)

buying: 10 Wrong Reasons to Choose a Realtor - 02/16/14 04:27 AM
What are the reasons for you when choosing a service provider? Experience, professionalism, education, recommendations? Those are all important things to consider. But what are bad reasons to choose a Realtor? Let's have a look



1. He/she is a friend or relative. There is actually nothing wrong in working with friends or family, as long as this is not the only reason.
2. He/she offered to do the job for the lowest commission. You want to save money. This is great. We all do. But ask yourself why he/she discounts the services - desperation? poor quality? All goods and services are … (5 comments)