Month: December 2014

How Calgary’s Unique Demographics Have Impacted the Housing Market

There are many things that make Calgary stand out. Its economy, rapid growth, and unique career opportunities have been making headlines across the country over the last decade. It is a city that is moving forward in leaps and bounds. For those who have been here all their lives, Calgary is noticeably different from the one they remember.

Calgary is home to more than 240 different ethnic cultures and ranks third in Canada for cultural diversity. The majority of Calgarians, nearly 50%, are between the ages of 25 and 54. As of last year, the median age is just 36 years old. Family sizes are about the same over the last few years, meaning the number of children entering the school system is fairly consistent year after year. According to the 2011 census, the population is nearly an even split between males and females.

Having the largest segment of the population in the workforce has no doubt provided a positive effect on Calgary’s economy. Wages are highly competitive and disposable income is among the highest in Canada. Over the last year, we have certainly seen the real estate market respond to these trends. Demand is high, and buyers are driving the market into an upward swing.

The condo market saw the most significant increase over the last year, and new developments are at an all-time high. Calgary’s young professionals want to find a modern and trendy place to call home, and they are willing to pay a premium to be in the heart of the action. Suburban living is also a popular choice for young families or couples looking to settle into a community-like environment at a more affordable price. Calgary has expanded with sustainability in mind. Many of Calgary’s communities have everything they need within a short distance to reduce the strain on the major roads and improve the quality and convenience of life for its residents on the outskirts of the city.

From Listed to SOLD

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Getting ready to make a move? The sale process may throw you off your daily routine for a few weeks, but it’s usually part of a larger plan to get you into a great new home. The Calgary market continues to climb, and selling a home for a great price has never been easier. If you are considering making a move, here are a few important tips to remember for a successful sale:

Establish the right price.

Pricing your home strategically is one of the most important considerations in the sale process. So how do you decide on the right price? Educated buyers and lenders will determine market value based on comparable recent sales in the area. The sales in the last 6 months are particularly influential in determining how much someone will be willing to pay for your home. Pricing a home low may generate multiple offers, but you are taking the chance of selling for less than what your home is worth. Pricing too high could turn serious buyers away because they may not see the value in your home.

Make a great impression.

It only takes a moment to make a first impression, and your home should be presented looking its absolute best. Decluttering is essential to rid your space of distractions. A well-staged home will look great in pictures, which is essential for the listing’s online advertising. Buyers should be captivated by what they see online and feel compelled to book a showing to see what your home really looks like. Keep your place as clean as possible during the sale process. Of course, staying on top of everything requires some extra work and attention to detail, but it will be well worth it in the end.

Negotiate the deal.

Once your floors are swept and the sign is on the lawn, all you can do is wait patiently for the right buyer to come along. The Rod Forsythe Group will not rest until a SOD sign is put on your home. Many buyers find the negotiation process to be somewhat stressful and that is where our expertise makes all the difference. With a well-positioned pricing strategy in a high-demand market, you can expect that serious buyers will be happy to agree to favourable terms to get the deal done.

Sales Up in almost Every Price Range

Eleven Great Reasons to List in December and January

Eleven Great Reasons to List in December and January

The spring might be the most popular time of year to list your home, but there are a few good reasons why you might want to think about selling now. Here are eleven reasons why selling in the next few months could be the right move for you.

  1. There is less competition for buyers. Unlike the spring market when inventory is at its peak, there are fewer active listings during the wintertime.

  2. Winter prospects are more serious. If people are searching for a home at this time of year, it means they are planning on making a purchase as soon as possible.

  3. Homes show better during the holidays. The added warmth from the holiday décor will make potential buyers feel right at home as soon as they walk in the door.

  4. One of the highest ratios of “listings sold to listings taken” occurs during this time of year. With fewer homes to choose from, the properties that are listed during the wintertime don’t last long.

  5. You may receive more money for your home because there is less competition. Although it’s always wise to price your home competitively, the winter months may put you in a strong position to negotiate.

  6. Throughout the holiday season, you may restrict showings during personal family gatherings. Need a break? Let your agent know ahead of time so they can clearly communicate your schedule if anyone calls to inquire.

  7. Buyers have more time to look at homes during the holiday season, especially during vacation time. With a busy work schedule, it’s tough for families to find time to book viewings. Many people have a few weeks off during the month of December, and they are sure to take advantage of their free time to look at homes.

  8. January is traditionally the biggest transfer month and you must be “available” to capture that market. Nothing beats looking forward to a new home in the New Year.

  9. By selling now, you can have a delayed closing or extended occupancy until the beginning of the year. The snow might be flying now, but it could be springtime before your closing date rolls around.

  10. You may have fewer showings, but more qualified and motivated buyers. The people who venture out in the cold to look at homes aren’t just casual buyers. Once they find the right home, they are likely to make a serious offer.

  11. Corporate transferees, who need to buy a home now, can’t wait until spring to purchase. People who are relocating for their job often do so at the beginning of the calendar year. These professionals are anxious to get settled sooner than later.
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