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Should You Move or Renovate? Three Things to Consider

 

Determining if you should buy a new home or fix up your current one isn’t easy. In fact, the decision can be steeped in so much drama they make reality TV shows about it!

 

So if you’re considering whether to move or improve, here are three things to consider.

 

1. Will a renovation truly fix what you don’t like about your property?

 

If you’re tired of a small kitchen, for example, it might not be possible, given the layout, to make it any bigger. On the other hand, if you’re craving a spacious rec room with a cosy fireplace then a renovation could make that happen.

 

Of course, there are some things you may want that aren’t specific to your house, such as an easier commute or nearby park. Those are features you may only be able to get by moving.

 

2. How much will a renovation cost? How does that compare to the cost of moving to a new home?

 

It’s important to get accurate estimates of each so you can make a smart decision. This is where a good REALTOR® can help.

 

Keep in mind that renovations have a habit of costing more than you originally anticipate. As mentioned earlier, the final result should be a home you want to stay in for quite some time.

 

3. Beware of compromising versus settling.

 

Whichever decision you make — renovate or sell — you can expect to have to make at least some compromises. That’s normal.

 

For example, consider adding an extension to your house. That’s a major renovation. Is it the ideal way to get the extra room you want? Do the benefits of renovating outweigh the benefits of finding a new larger home designed to include the space you need?

 

Yes, it’s a tough decision. If you’re in the midst of making it, call today, to get the facts you need to make the best choice for you.

 

Looking for a good REALTOR®? Looking for more ideas on making smart decisions when selling or buying a home? Call Donna at The Barrie Home Hunter Team today.  Follow us on FacebookInstagram and Pinterest

 

Helping you move, Confidently! 

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Surprising Ways Buyers Find Homes

 

Do you ever wonder how most people find the homes they eventually buy? You might imagine them driving by a “For Sale” sign or seeing a home for sale in the newspaper and then calling to enquire.

 

Of course, many buyers find out about listed properties that way. But, according to research by the National Association of Realtors, there are many other — sometimes surprising — ways buyers find their next dream home.

 

For example:

 

  • 88% of buyers find a home with the help of a real estate agent.

 

  • 90% of buyers search online as part of the home buying process. (Such as viewing a property’s profile on the agent’s website.)

 

  • 69% of buyers searching for a home using Google, use a specific local term, such as “Whitby-south homes for sale”.

 

  • 29-46% of buyers attend an Open House as part of their home hunting activities.

 

Overall, the research shows that buyers are using a multitude of ways — combining online and offline methods — to find homes. 

 

What does all this mean to you? If means that if you’re preparing your home for sale, you need to ensure your marketing plan takes into account all the ways buyers are finding properties — so you can be sure that they will find yours.

 

Looking for a REALTOR® who knows how to market your home for maximum exposure? Call Donna today. 

 

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How to Reduce the Chance of A Burglary by 90%

 

 

No one wants to deal with a burglary. How do you reduce the chances of one happening?

 

Fortunately, burglaries are a well-studied phenomenon — especially by law enforcement. These studies have identified specific things you can do to cut the risk dramatically. Here are some ideas:

 

  • 34% of home break-ins occur through the front door. Experts recommend investing in a door with a top-quality locking mechanism. (The best are those that lock at three points of contact.)

 

  • 50% of burglars will be deterred if your home has some sort of video monitoring system. A thief doesn’t want his face on YouTube!

 

  • Unfortunately, signs and window stickers warning of an alarm system do not deter thieves. However, 62% of burglars will immediately run away when an alarm goes off. Always turn on your alarm system when you’re not home!

 

  • 22% of burglaries occur through a sliding glass door or patio door. Make sure it’s locked and also use a solid metal jammer.

 

  • Some thieves use frequency scanners to gain access to garages. Police recommend changing your remote entry code regularly and putting blinds or curtains on garage windows so thieves can’t see (and be tempted by) any valuables inside.

 

As you can see, there are many simple things you can do to reduce your chances of a burglary dramatically. The effort is worth it.

 

 

Looking for a good REALTOR®? Looking for more ideas on making smart decisions when selling or buying a home? Call Donna Hunter at The Barrie Home Hunter Team today.  Follow us on FacebookInstagram and Pinterest

 

Helping you move, Confidently! 

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The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are member’s of CREA. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by CREA and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.