Top Reasons to Work with Me, Your Trusted Calgary Real Estate Agent

When you're buying or selling a home in Calgary, it's important to work with a trusted and experienced real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose me as your go-to real estate agent:

1. Local Expertise:  I have an in-depth understanding of the local real estate market, including current trends, prices, and neighbourhoods. This allows me to provide you with valuable insights and advice that can help you make informed decisions about your buying or selling strategy.

2. Personalized Service: I take the time to get to know each of my clients on a personal level, so I can better understand your unique needs and preferences. This enables me to tailor my services to your specific goals and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

3. Extensive Network: Over the years, I have built up a vast network of industry professionals, including mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and contractors. This network allows me to connect you with the best resources and services in the industry, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transaction.

4. Innovative Marketing: When it comes to marketing your home, I utilize the latest technology and tools to ensure maximum exposure and engagement. From professional photography and virtual tours to targeted online advertising, I go above and beyond to showcase your home in the best possible light.

5. Proven Track Record: With over 10 years of experience in the industry, I have a proven track record of success when it comes to buying and selling homes in Calgary. My dedication to my clients, combined with my expertise and resources, allows me to consistently deliver exceptional results.

If you're looking for a trusted and experienced Calgary real estate agent, look no further than me. Contact me today to learn more about my services and how I can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Diane Richardson Cell: 403.397.3706
Email Address :Diane@mypadcalgary.com
Website:Mypadcalgary.com, Diane-Richardson.com, forsaleinCalgary.com,

Are you looking to purchase a condo in Calgary? Calgary is a vibrant and dynamic city, and one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, purchasing a condo in Calgary is an excellent opportunity to own property in this exciting city. Calgary has a wide range of condos to choose from, with options ranging from entry-level to luxury.

Entry-Level Condos:

Entry-level condos are the most affordable option for those looking to purchase a condo in Calgary. These condos are typically smaller units in older buildings or those that are located further from the city center. Prices for entry-level condos in Calgary can start around $150,000 - $300,000. While entry-level condos may not have all the amenities of a luxury condo, they are a great option for first-time homebuyers or those on a budget.

Mid-Range Condos:

Mid-range condos are larger units with more bedrooms and bathrooms, and can include newer buildings with more amenities. Prices for mid-range condos in Calgary condos for sale can range from around $300,000 - $500,000. Mid-range condos are perfect for those looking for more space and amenities, but still want to remain within a reasonable budget.

Luxury Condos:

Luxury condos are the most expensive condos in Calgary, and can include large units in newer buildings with high-end finishes and amenities such as concierge service, gym, and pool. Prices for luxury condos in Calgary can start around $500,000 and go up to several millions. Luxury condos are perfect for those who want the best of the best, and are willing to pay for it.

When considering purchasing a condo in Calgary, it's essential to weigh your options carefully. Each condo option has its pros and cons, and it's important to decide which one will work best for your lifestyle and budget. Additionally, be sure to research the different neighborhoods in Calgary to find the one that suits you best. From the trendy Beltline neighborhood to the quiet and residential neighborhood of Kensington, Calgary has something for everyone.

In conclusion, purchasing a condo in Calgary is an excellent opportunity to own property in a thriving and exciting city. Whether you're looking for an entry-level condo, a mid-range condo, or a luxury condo, Calgary has something for every budget and lifestyle. With so many options to choose from, it's essential to do your research. Diane Richardson cell: 403.397.3706 or email can guide you through the process and help you find the perfect condo for you.

Calgary is a vibrant city with a diverse population and plenty of opportunities for work, lifestyle and education. Before we talk about how to buy a home in Calgary lets explore some reasons why you might want to make Calgary your home:

Strong economy: Calgary has a strong and diverse economy. Long known for being the centre of the energy sector in Canada, Calgary is now emerging as a globally recognized tech and innovation hub with the fastest tech workforce growth in North America. Ties to the agriculture industry through ranching and farming there are numerous employment options for the residents of this fast-paced city.

Beautiful scenery: Located close to the Rocky Mountains, with stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Just a short drive to Kananaskis Country, Banff National Park and beautiful Lake Louise ther's unlimited opportunities to take in all the outdoors has to offer. The city itself is also home to many parks and green spaces, making it a great place to live for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Family-friendly: Calgary is a family-friendly city, with great schools and plenty of activities for children. With a median age of 38 years the population is young, relative to other Canadian cities. Calgary is considered safe and has a low crime rate, making it an ideal place to raise a family.

Cultural diversity: The third most diverse city in Canada, Calgary is home to over 240 different ethnic origins and 120 languages spoken. With a thriving arts and cultural scene residents enjoy festivals, museums, galleries, and live music throughout the year.

Affordable housing: Despite being a major city, Calgary has some of themost affordable housing compared to other major Canadian cities. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to buy a home.

Excellent healthcare: Calgary has a high standard of healthcare, with world-class hospitals and medical facilities. Residents can access quality healthcare when they need it.

Education: With 5 major post-secondary insitutions in Calgary the education opportunities are very good. The University of Calgary (UofC), Mount Royal University, Bow Valley College, SAIT, St. Mary's University and Alberta University of the Arts are all found in Calgary.

Overall, Calgary is a great Canadian city to buy a home for those who're looking for a high standard of living, great job opportunities, and a range of cultural and recreational activities.

So what are the steps you need to take in order to buy a home in Calgary? Follow these steps and you'll be well on your way. 

Step 1: Get pre-approved for a mortgage

This is your most important first step when buying real estate. This wil help you to determine how much you can afford and where your payments will be so you can be. The easiest way to do this is to speak with a mortgage broker who will collect the required information and start the pre-approval process for you. Be aware of the difference between getting an pre-approval vs. a pre-qualification: You want to be pre-approved. Information you'll need to provide is your tax information for the past two years, employment history, debts you currently have (including personal loans, student loans and credit card debt). 

Knowing your budget: this is the most important part of shopping for a home. The amount of money you want to spend on your new Calgary home will be the most determinant factor in your shopping, it will influence the location, size and type of home you'll be able to purchase.

Step 2: Find a real estate agent

A good REALTOR® can help you find the right home in the right neighbourhood and guide you through the home-buying process. Look for an agent you feel a connetion with whom you can trust and who listens carefully to what you're looking for in your new home.

Step 3: Choose a neighbourhood

Calgary has over 200 neighbourhoods to choose from, each with its own character and amenities. Consider your lifestyle and needs, such as proximity to work , schools, transportation and amenities when considering your neighbourhoods.

Step 4: Start your search

Once you have your budget, agent and location it's time to start your search. Your agent will set up a search to send you listings that match your criteria, and you can also search online on real estate websites. Diane-Richardson.com and CalgaryHomez.com are two sites that could help with this.

Step 5: View homes and make an offer

You'll start the shopping process by looking online but when you find something that looks interesting it's time to schedule a viewing (also referred to as a showing). Do this with your REALTOR®. It's important that your agent see all the houses you see, this will help when it comes time to write an offer, he or she will have a better understanding of the value of that home to you, not just based on the market conditions.

Step 5.1: Writing an offer

When you've found a home you want to purchase it's time to write an offer. This is where your real estate agent is really invaluable. There's lots of paperwork involved in a modern real estate deal and legal contracts that will bind you to an agreement once signed. Your REALTOR® can help you determine your offer price, conditions of the contract and additional terms that may form part of the offer to purchase.

Step 5.2: Negotiation

Generally your initial offer will be countered by the seller with what is referred to as a counter-offer. This will likely include some common ground based on your original offer but may have adjustments to the agreement that the seller wouldl like to see. These can include the possession date, the amount of the deposit or goods included/not included but most often, the difference will be the price. Your agent is going to help you through this negotiation process until you eithe reach an agreement with the seller or one side of the negotiation decides that an agreement can't be made and walks away.

If an agreement between you and the seller is reached you will be required to pay deposit to be held in trust by the seller's brokerage. This is known as good faith money and shows the seller that you are a serious buyer and are now going to make your best efforts to satisfy and condittions that were agreed upon in the purchase contract 

Step 6: Inspections and Financing

As mentioned there will be conditions on your purchase contract, the most common of these are a property inspection and financing.

Step 6.1: Financing

This is where your mortgage broker gets cracking on the final approval for your purchase. If you're pre-approved you've probably submitted most of the required paperwork but there might be a few more items the lender will request. Your purchase contract and property details will be sent to your mortgage professional by your REALTOR®; just like you had to be approved for financing so does the property you're buying, after all it will be the collateral for the loan you're about to take. This part of the process will also likely require an appraisal which is a cost that you, as the buyer, will have to bear. Be sure to budget at least $300 for this.

Step 6.2: Inspections

Depending on the type of property you're buying there are different inspections that you may want to have done or that may be required. When buying a detached, semi-detached or townhouse in the city a home inspection can be a good way to determine the condition of the home, including the rood, furnace, hot water heater and appliances.

A home inspection can help identify potential problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye. This can include issues with the foundation, electrical system, or plumbing, that could be costly to repair. If the inspection uncovers any issues with the home, the buyer may be able to use this information to negotiate repairs or a lower sale price with the seller.

If the property you're buying is a condo or strata then a document review, by a qualified document reviewer is highly recommended. With a condo purchase you also want to know the health of the condo board, the bylaws that you'll be required to live by and whether there are any upcoming issues that may impact your enjoyment of your property.

If your purchase is an acreage it may also be important to have the water quality, well pressure and septic systems tested.

Step 7: Working towards possession

Once the home inspection is complete and your financing is secured and you have waived any and all conditions on the purchase contract you now have a firm sale. You still have a few things to look after in order for your deal to finalize but you're almost there. You'll need to get homeowners insurance if you are buying a house or townhouse and content insurance if you're buying a condo (your REALTOR® can help with this). Also, you will want to set up your utilities and arrange for your property taxes to be automatically paid every month (known as TIPP in Calgary). Maybe arrange for a change of address at the post office and give your new address to anybody who should have it.

At some point, usually two weeks to ten days before your possession date, you'll meet with your real estate lawyer who will go through your mortgage documents with you, have you sign them and show you the adjustments for taxes, condo fees or any lease amounts tied to your property. There will most likely be a difference between the deposit you gave to the listing agent's brokerage (remember that good faith money) and the balance of your down payment. This is the day you'll need to have that money available and you'll bring it to your lawyer's office, don't worry, your lawyer is going to tell you all of this well in advance of this meeting. 

Step 8: Possession or Closing

Congratulations, the big day is finally here!. On this day your lawyer will transfer the outstanding balance owing on the purhase to the seller's lawyer. When the transfer is completed your REALTOR® agent will be advised that the keys can be released, that's when you'll at your new home and they'll hand over the keys. Ta Da! You're a home owner.

For help with your purchase (or to list your property) get in touch with me, Diane Richardson and I can help to guide you through the process and make sure things run smoothly. You can email me at Diane@mypadCalgary.com or call/text me on 403-397-3706.

Orignially called Chestermere Lake, Chestermere is a city located just east of Calgary, offering residents the perfect combination of small-town living and big-city amenities. With a wide range of real estate options, from cozy bungalows to luxurious waterfront estates, Chestermere is the perfect place to call home. Lets explore some of the communities in Chestermere and the real estate options available.

Communities in Chestermere

Chestermere is divided into several distinct communities (map search), each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the most popular communities in the city:

Kinniburgh is a newer community located in the south of Chestermere, and it's one of the fastest-growing communities in the city. Known for its large, luxurious homes and stunning lake views with plenty of green spaces and parks. Kinniburgh is the perfect place for families to call home.

Westmere is a well-established community located in the west of Chestermere. This community is known for its great selection of restaurants, shops, and amenities. It's also home to a range of housing options, including townhouses, condos, and single-family homes. With great schools and a friendly atmosphere, Westmere is a fantastic community for families.

Rainbow Falls is a tranquil community located in the east of Chestermere, and it's a popular choice for those who love the outdoors. This community is known for its beautiful walking trails, waterfalls, and green spaces. Rainbow Falls is also home to a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment condos.

The Cove is a luxury waterfront community located in the north of Chestermere. This community is known for its stunning lakefront properties and incredible views. If you're looking for a high-end, custom-built home, The Cove is the perfect place to look.

East Chestermere is a peaceful community located on the east side of the lake. This community is known for its tranquil atmosphere and easy access to outdoor activities. East Chestermere is home to a range of housing options, including single-family homes and estate homes.

Homes Styles in Chestermere

Chestermere offers a wide range of home styles to suit any taste and budget. Here are some of the most popular home styles in the city:

Bungalows are a popular choice for those who want a single-level living experience. These homes typically feature an open-concept living and dining area, with bedrooms located on the same floor. Bungalows are a great choice for those looking to "right-size" and be ready for life without stairs.

Two-story homes are a popular choice for families, as they offer plenty of space and a traditional layout. These homes typically feature bedrooms on the second floor and a large living area on the main floor. Two-story homes are available in a wide range of styles, from modern to traditional.

Townhouses are for those who want the convenience of an apartment condo but with more space and privacy. These homes typically feature multiple levels, with bedrooms located on the upper floors. Townhouses are a great choice for first-time homebuyers or those who want to downsize.

Acreages are a popular choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. These homes typically feature large, sprawling properties with plenty of land for outdoor activities. Acreages are a great choice for those who love the outdoors and want a more rural lifestyle.

Condos are a popular choice for those who want a low-maintenance living experience with access to great amenities. Chestermere has a range of modern, stylish condos available, many of which offer lake views and easy access to the city's amenities.

Lakefront homes, Estate homes are a high-end option for those who want a custom-built, luxurious home. These homes typically feature large properties and high-end finishes, and they're often located in exclusive, waterfront communities like The Cove.

Why Choose Chestermere?

With so many different communities and home styles to choose from, Chestermere is the perfect place to call home. But that's not the only reason to choose this beautiful city. Here are just a few of the many reasons to consider living in Chestermere:

Natural Beauty; Chestermere is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from the crystal-clear lake to the rolling hills and green spaces. Whether you love hiking, boating, or just enjoying a peaceful walk, there's plenty of outdoor beauty to explore in this city.

Convenient location; Chestermere is conveniently located just a short drive from Calgary, making it a great choice for commuters. With easy access to the Trans-Canada Highway and the Calgary International Airport, it's easy to get where you need to go.

Friendly Community; Chestermere is known for its friendly, welcoming community. Whether you're a young family or a retiree, you'll feel right at home in this city.

Great Amenities; From great schools to a range of shopping and dining options, Chestermere has everything you need to live a comfortable, convenient lifestyle. With a range of community events and activities, there's always something to do in this vibrant city.

Chestermere is a beautiful, diverse city with something to offer everyone. Whether you're looking for a luxury waterfront home or a low-maintenance condo, you'll find a range of home styles and communities to choose from. With its natural beauty, convenient location, and friendly community, Chestermere is the perfect place to call home.

There’s no better way than checking out all these amazing houses first-hand with private viewings arranged by Diane Richardson at your convenience - just email, text or call us today 403.397.3706. I'll help you find what meets your needs, within your budget.

Are you searching for the perfect home in Airdrie, but don't know where to start? With a variety of different types of real estate available, it can be overwhelming to choose which one is the best fit for you. But don't worry - we've got you covered!

Single-family homes: If you're looking for a classic, stand-alone property with your own yard and no shared walls, a single-family home might be the perfect option for you. These types of homes are perfect for families, offering plenty of space and privacy for everyone.

Townhomes: A townhome is a perfect middle ground between a single-family home and a condo. These properties offer a private entrance, a shared wall with a neighbor, and usually, a small yard. This option is perfect for those looking for the ease of maintenance of a condo while still having more living space and privacy.

Condos: If you're looking for a low-maintenance living experience, a condo might be the perfect fit for you. With shared walls and often less square footage, condos are great for singles or couples without children, and those looking for a more urban lifestyle.

New Homes: If you're looking for the latest and greatest in home design and construction, Airdrie new homes might be the perfect fit for you. These homes offer the latest features and finishes, often with energy-efficient designs and modern floor plans. We can help guide you through the home buying process and find the perfect new home to suit your needs

No matter what type of real estate you're interested in, Airdrie has something for everyone.  We can help guide you through the home buying process and find the perfect property to suit your needs. 

Cochrane Real Estate and the Town: A Guide to Living in Cochrane, AB

Cochrane, Alberta, is a charming town located just a short drive from Calgary, offering a unique blend of urban convenience and rural tranquility. With its growing population, vibrant community, and stunning natural beauty, Cochrane is an attractive destination for both homebuyers and investors. In this blog, we'll explore the real estate market in Cochrane, the town's attractions and amenities, and what makes it a great place to call home.

The Cochrane Real Estate Market

Cochrane real estate has been experiencing steady growth over the past few years, driven by strong demand from homebuyers looking for affordable alternatives to Calgary's high housing prices. The town offers a range of housing options, from charming single-family homes to stylish townhouses and new build homes for sale, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

The Town of Cochrane

Cochrane is a vibrant town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. With its rolling hills, wide open spaces, and stunning mountain views, Cochrane offers a unique quality of life that is hard to find in a big city. The town is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and amenities, including a community center, multiple parks, and a library.

One of the town's biggest attractions is the Big Hill Springs Park, which offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a natural spring-fed pool. Cochrane is also home to several popular festivals and events throughout the year, including the Cochrane Rodeo, the Christmas in Cochrane celebration, and the Cochrane Farmers' Market.

Why Live and Invest in Cochrane

Cochrane offers a unique blend of urban convenience and rural tranquility, making it a great place to call home. The town is located just a short drive from Calgary, making it easy to access the city's shopping, dining, and entertainment options. At the same time, Cochrane's relaxed pace of life and stunning natural beauty offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

In addition to its quality of life, Cochrane is also a smart investment choice. The town's growing population, strong economy, and attractive housing prices make it a great place to invest in real estate. Whether you're looking to buy a home, start a business, or invest in the local market, Cochrane is an attractive destination that offers tremendous opportunity.

In conclusion, Cochrane, AB is a charming town that offers a unique quality of life, a growing real estate market, and a range of investment opportunities. If you're looking for a place to call home or to invest in, consider the many benefits of Cochrane real estate and the town.

Find Your Perfect Home in Cochrane, AB | Cochrane Real Estate

Calgary is one of Canada's most dynamic cities, with a thriving economy and a diverse community. One of the city's most popular neighborhoods is Auburn Bay, a lakeside community that offers the perfect combination of urban amenities and natural beauty. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or a retiree, Auburn Bay has something to offer. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes Auburn Bay such a great place to call home.

Location, Location, Location

Auburn Bay is located in southeast Calgary, just 20 minutes away from the city's downtown core. The community is surrounded by parks, green spaces, and the stunning Auburn Bay Lake, which provides residents with a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Despite its tranquil setting, Auburn Bay is well-connected to the rest of Calgary, with easy access to major roads, transit options, and a host of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Housing Options

Auburn Bay offers a variety of housing options to meet the needs of different buyers. The community is home to a range of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, with prices ranging from affordable to high-end. Whether you're in the market for a starter home, a family-friendly abode, or a luxurious lakefront property, Auburn Bay has something for everyone.

Community Amenities

One of the biggest draws of Auburn Bay is its vibrant community. The neighborhood is home to a host of amenities and activities, including a lake club, a fitness center, tennis courts, parks, playgrounds, and a variety of community events and programs. There's always something to do in Auburn Bay, whether you're looking to get active, connect with your neighbors, or simply relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Outdoor Activities

Auburn Bay is a nature lover's paradise, with easy access to some of the city's best outdoor spaces. The Auburn Bay Lake is the heart of the community, offering a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and beach volleyball. The community is also surrounded by parks, green spaces, and hiking trails, making it easy to get out and explore the great outdoors.

In conclusion, Auburn Bay is a vibrant, thriving community that offers the best of both worlds: urban amenities and natural beauty. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or a retiree, Auburn Bay has something to offer. With its location, housing options, community amenities, and outdoor activities, it's no wonder that Auburn Bay is one of Calgary's most sought-after neighborhoods.

Calgary is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada and is known for its thriving economy and scenic landscapes. With a population of over 1.2 million people, it's no wonder that the city is becoming an increasingly popular place to call home. If you're considering making the move to Calgary, you'll want to know all about the city's condos for sale.

Condos are a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance, affordable living option in a vibrant city. Calgary is no exception, with a variety of condos to choose from that cater to all types of lifestyles and budgets. From downtown high-rise buildings to more suburban communities, there's something for everyone in Calgary's real estate market.

When it comes to buying a condo in Calgary, it's important to do your research and understand the local market. The good news is that Calgary has a relatively stable real estate market, with a steady growth in prices over the past few years. However, like any real estate market, there are always fluctuations, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and analysis.

If you're looking for an affordable option, you may want to consider a condo in one of the city's suburban communities. Here, you'll find condos that are typically more budget-friendly and offer a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more urban experience, you may want to consider a downtown condo. Downtown condos offer a more fast-paced, city lifestyle and typically come with higher prices and more amenities.

When choosing a condo, it's important to consider your lifestyle and what's important to you. For example, if you're a young professional who enjoys an active social life, you may want to choose a condo building that's close to popular bars, restaurants, and shopping centers. Alternatively, if you're a family, you may want to choose a condo building that's close to schools, parks, and family-friendly attractions.

Once you've decided on the type of condo you're looking for, it's time to start your search. You can also search mypadcalgary.com, browse through our listings, and compare different neighborhoods to get an idea of the market.

In conclusion, condos are a great option for those looking for an affordable and low-maintenance living option in Calgary. With a variety of condos to choose from and a stable real estate market, there's something for everyone in Calgary. Whether you're a young professional or a family, you're sure to find your perfect home in this vibrant city. Browse our Calgary condo listings today and take the first step towards your dream home!

CONTACT DIANE RICHARDSON

When any Calgary Real Estate Listings looks interesting and you’d like a closer look please email, text or call and I’ll arrange your private viewing, at your convenience. You can reach me by phone or text at 403-397-3706 and email. Please be sure to include the property address or MLS® number for the listing you are interested in.

Take advantage of our proven marketing systems to list your home for sale in Calgary or contact me today to arrange a private showing of any property you see here on mypadcalgary.com.

Discover the Best Okotoks Homes for Sale - Your Dream Home Awaits!"

Are you looking for your perfect home in Okotoks? Look no further! We've got a wide range of homes available for sale in Okotoks, perfect for families, first-time homebuyers, and everyone in between. With its beautiful natural surroundings, top-notch schools, and friendly community, Okotoks is the perfect place to call home.

Why Choose Okotoks for Your Next Home?

Okotoks is a vibrant town located just 45 minutes south of Calgary, Alberta. It is a great place to live and raise a family, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a thriving arts community, and a friendly, tight-knit community. With a low crime rate, high-quality schools, and affordable housing, Okotoks is the perfect place for families and first-time homebuyers.

A Wide Range of Homes for Sale in Okotoks

Whether you're looking for a cozy starter home, a spacious family home, or a luxurious estate, we've got you covered.The homes for sale in Okotoks come in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices, so you're sure to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Some of the types of homes available in Okotoks include:

• Single-family homes
• New build homes
• Townhomes
• Condos
• Luxury estates

 With a wide range of options available, you're sure to find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Why Work with Us?

We are committed to helping our clients find the perfect home. We have a deep knowledge of the Okotoks real estate market. We work with you every step of the way, from finding the right home to closing the deal, to make sure you have the best experience possible.

OKOTOKS, ALBERTA REAL ESTATE SEARCH

Don't miss out on your dream home in Okotoks! Browse our listings today and find the perfect home for you and your family. Contact Diane Richardson today by email or cell 403.397.3706 to schedule a viewing or for more information on any of our homes for sale in Okotoks. Your dream home awaits!

The top 5 upgrades to sell your house are the most important things you can do to make your house appealing to as many buyers as possible. The market is competitive so give your house an edge over other listings. In order to keep your property from lingering on the market and get top dollar you’re willing to do some improvements, but where’s the best place to put your money? This list of top 5 upgrades will answer that question.

1. Clean It, Organize It, and Clean It Again

As with most things your budget is going to dictate what you do and which part of the house gets the facelift. The most basic thing you need to do is a serious, deep clean. This means washing the kitchen cabin

ets insideand out, refolding and stacking all the linens in the closet, and purging flat surfaces of all superfluous knick-knacks. Clean like your mother-in-law is coming to visit. If you don’t have time for this, hire someone, it’s money well spent.

When you do this deep clean it's a good time to de-personalize your house. Once you put your property on the market, it's not your home anymore, it's a product up for sale, make it appealing to as many people as possible. This means the wedding pictures, family portraits, and pet photos come off the wall. If you can afford some large artwork from HomeSense, Wayfair even Amazon, that's a great way to tie a room together and cover-up nail holes at the same time.

2. Paint the Whole House

If you’ve got $500 to $1000 to spend and you’re handy, get neutral paint and give the whole house a fresh coat. You can purchase a 5-gallon bucket and do the whole house one colour. Have a look at some house-fashion magazines to see what colours are in vogue but stay away from anything that makes a statement. You want to stick with greys, off-white, or light taupe. There are rare occasions where a residence looks best with white walls, this works best in very modern dwellings with modern furnishings.

If you’ve been in your place for 10 or more years without a repaint it’s probably time to do the ceilings too. This can be a bit tricky and if you’ve never painted before you may want to hire a professional, at the very least check out some YouTube videos.

3. Upgrade the Flooring

The next thing to consider is the flooring. You’re going to get a good return on your investment if you put in new flooring or refinish existing wood floors. The least expensive option is new carpeting but you’re still going to need several thousands of dollars to do this so it may not be feasible. If you do replace carpet avoid Berber and short shags, and again stay away from strong colours, right now soft grey is probably your best bet.

Total kitchen and bathroom renovations are best done when you have time to enjoy the fruits of your labours. If you’re doing improvements for the purpose of selling then some smaller changes might be appropriate. In the bathroom, a flooring upgrade from linoleum to ceramic tile is a good choice. If you’ve got a bit more to spend then you may want to upgrade the vanity too. Or, painting the vanity you’ve got a nice neutral white or soft grey, and upgrading the knobs may do the trick.

4. Add an Ensuite Bathroom

If you have a house that doesn’t have an ensuite or only a two-piece ensuite, and there is room and plumbing to expand or add an ensuite that can be a good way to add value. You have to consider that this will likely be a minimum of $10,000 but it will increase your home’s value and make it much more attractive on the market.

5. Give the Kitchen a Facelift

It's not always necessary to completely renovate a kitchen. If the layout of your kitchen is decent but the finishes look dated it may be possible to refinish or paint your cabinets, update the hardware and upgrade the countertops.

If you're going to paint the cabinets it's probably wise to hire a professional that can spray them and give them a smooth finish. Find moderately-priced handles (and hinges if necessary) and either replace the existing countertops with granite or if the laminate countertops are in good shape have them over-laid with a granite-look finish like that available from Calgary Countertops.

What Not to Do

A common misconception is that finishing the basement will increase the value of your home. Don’t be lead down this path, if you’re very handy and can do the work yourself you may break even. If you have to hire a contractor to do the work for you the chances are you’re going to lose money. Finish your basement if you need the space for your family to live comfortably but don’t do it to get more money when you sell.