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How to Prepare Your Home for a Stunning First Impression
First impressions matter, especially in real estate. When buyers pull up to your property, they’ll form an opinion before even stepping inside. Here’s how to make sure your home stands out for all the right reasons and gets buyers excited to take a closer look.
Curb Appeal: Your Home’s First Impression
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see. A well-maintained yard, freshly mowed lawn, and weed-free flower beds go a long way. If the season calls for it, ensure snow and ice are cleared from pathways and driveways. Repainting trim and your front door with a pop of color can make your home memorable and inviting. These small investments show pride of ownership and make your property feel welcoming.
Creating Space Inside
Buyers need to feel they can move freely through your home. Overcrowded rooms can make spaces feel smaller and less functional. Remove excess furniture and create a logical flow. Each room should have a clear purpose—avoid confusing buyers with a dining room that doubles as an office. If a room has an odd shape, stage it in a way that highlights its potential, whether as a cozy nook, a craft room, or a yoga space.
Fresh Paint, Big Impact
Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh your home. Neutral, light colors create a bright and spacious feel, appealing to the widest range of buyers. A consistent monochromatic palette throughout the house can tie everything together, making it look polished and well-maintained.
Attention to Flooring
Worn or stained carpets? Scratched hardwood floors? These can be major turn-offs for buyers. Consider replacing carpeting or refinishing hardwood to make your home shine. If budget allows, explore cost-effective options like luxury vinyl plank, which can give your floors a modern look without breaking the bank.
Deep Cleaning: No Corner Overlooked
A clean home is non-negotiable. Go beyond decluttering and give your home a deep clean. Dust light fixtures, clean the grout in bathrooms, and ensure every surface gleams. Buyers will notice the effort, and it leaves one less objection in their minds.
By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your home is ready to impress buyers from the moment they arrive. Small changes can have a big impact on how your home is perceived—and how quickly it sells.
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home
Selling your home is an exciting step, but it can also be stressful if things don’t go as planned. Avoid these common mistakes to make the process as smooth and successful as possible.
- Choosing a REALTOR® Based Solely on the Suggested Price
It’s tempting to go with the agent who promises the highest price for your home, but this isn’t always the best choice. A REALTOR® should be able to back up their suggested price with a detailed market analysis. Equally important are their marketing plan, communication skills, and approach to negotiations. Make sure you’re hiring someone you trust to guide you through the process—not just someone who tells you what you want to hear.
- Guessing the Right Price
Assuming your home will sell for the same price as a nearby property or basing your price on a gut feeling can lead to trouble. Every home is unique, and a professional evaluation considers factors like condition, upgrades, and market trends. Guesswork often results in wasted time and a longer sale process.
- Overpricing to “Test the Market”
Pricing your home too high in hopes of testing the market can discourage serious buyers. Many buyers watch the market closely and skip overpriced listings. Even if you reduce the price later, your home may be viewed as stale or problematic. The right price from the start generates excitement and interest.
- Letting Emotions Impact Pricing
Your home holds memories and meaning for you, but this emotional attachment doesn’t translate to added market value. Buyers are focused on objective factors like location, size, and condition. Trust the numbers provided by your REALTOR® to avoid letting emotions cloud your judgment.
- Underestimating the Importance of the First Two Weeks
The first two weeks your home is on the market are critical. This is when interest is at its peak, and buyers are most excited about new listings. If your home is overpriced or not presented well, you risk losing momentum. Ensuring everything is perfect from the start will increase your chances of a quick and successful sale.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set the stage for a smoother transaction and maximize your home’s potential on the market.
Asking Rents in Canada Decrease to an 18-Month Low Amid Market Adjustments
The Canadian rental market is undergoing a notable shift, with asking rents hitting an 18-month low as of January 2025. According to the latest National Rent Report from Rentals.ca and Urbanation, the average asking rent for all residential properties fell to $2,100—marking a 4.4% annual decline and a $96 decrease compared to the previous year. This marks the fourth consecutive month of annual rent decreases, a stark contrast to the 38 months of continuous rent increases prior.
A Changing Rental Landscape
Despite recent declines, it’s important to note that rental prices are still up 5.2% compared to two years ago and remain 16.4% higher than three years ago. However, the current downward trend suggests an ongoing market adjustment that could bring more affordability for renters in the months ahead.
“The downward trend for rents in Canada accelerated during the first month of 2025. Heightened downside risks for the economy, combined with declining international population inflows and multi-decade highs for apartment completions, suggest rents will continue to weaken in the months ahead. This will result in improved affordability for renters,” said Shaun Hildebrand, President of Urbanation.
Where Are the Biggest Rent Declines?
The most significant declines were seen in the secondary rental market, with asking rents for condominium apartments dropping by 6.5% year-over-year to an average of $2,219. Meanwhile, rental rates for houses and townhomes fell by 8.9% to $2,144.
Purpose-built rental apartments experienced a milder decline of 1.7%, though certain unit types defied the trend. Studio apartments and three-bedroom units in purpose-built rental buildings remained in high demand, experiencing slight rent increases of 0.5% and 2.1%, respectively.
Regional Highlights: Ontario and B.C. See Notable Declines
Among the provinces, Ontario experienced the steepest rent declines, with apartment rents dropping 5.2% annually to an average of $2,329. British Columbia remained Canada’s most expensive rental market, despite a 2.6% annual decrease bringing the average asking rent for purpose-built and condominium apartments down to $2,463.
In contrast, some provinces saw rental increases. Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba recorded modest annual rent increases between 2-3%, reflecting sustained demand in these more affordable markets. Quebec saw near-stable rents with a 0.4% increase, while Nova Scotia rents dipped slightly by 0.7% year-over-year to $2,195.
Big City Rental Trends
Among Canada’s major cities, Toronto experienced the largest rent drop, with average apartment rents declining 7.6% year-over-year to $2,615, the lowest in 30 months. Calgary followed closely, with a 6.0% decline bringing the average rent to $1,925. Meanwhile, Vancouver saw its 14th consecutive month of rent declines, with an annual drop of 5.2% bringing the average rent to $2,896. Since its peak in July 2023 at $3,340, Vancouver’s rental rates have fallen by 13%, equating to a $443 per month reduction.
Changing Demand for Shared Housing
The supply of shared accommodations has grown significantly, leading to lower roommate rents. Listings for shared housing increased by 42% year-over-year in January, particularly in Calgary. This increased supply drove the national average asking rent for shared accommodations down by 7.6% to $933—the lowest level in 18 months. Alberta and Ontario saw the most significant declines, with roommate rents dropping 2.7% and 2.6%, respectively.
What This Means for Renters
For prospective tenants, this market shift represents an opportunity to secure rental housing at more affordable rates than in recent years. With increasing supply, particularly in shared accommodations and purpose-built rentals, renters may have more negotiating power and a wider range of options.
As the market continues to adjust, it will be important for both landlords and tenants to stay informed about regional trends and pricing shifts. If you’re considering a move or looking for investment opportunities in rental properties, understanding these dynamics can help you make well-informed decisions.
Final Thoughts
While Canada’s rental market has seen significant declines in recent months, affordability remains a challenge in many urban centers. However, with economic uncertainties, shifting population growth patterns, and an increase in available rental units, 2025 could be a year of continued rent stabilization—offering some relief for renters nationwide.
If you have questions about navigating the rental market or real estate investment opportunities, feel free to reach out for expert advice tailored to your needs.
2025 Calgary Real Estate Market: Trends, Opportunities, and What It Means for You
As we step into 2025, Calgary’s real estate market is shaping up to be an exciting space filled with opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors. Following a few dynamic years marked by record-breaking population growth and tight market conditions, the year ahead offers a mix of stability, balance, and growth. Let’s dive into the trends you need to know and how they might impact your real estate goals.
A Strong Market with Shifting Dynamics
The Calgary housing market is projected to maintain its strength, with sales expected to stay 20% above long-term trends. Easing lending rates, continued migration, and better inventory options are fueling demand, even as economic uncertainty and slower population growth temper the pace.
While 2025 won’t replicate the frenzied pace of past years, the forecasted 26,000+ sales reflect a robust market that’s finding its balance. For buyers and sellers alike, this is a year to navigate opportunities carefully, armed with the right information and strategies.
Detached Homes: A Stable Option Amid Changing Conditions
Detached homes continue to be a cornerstone of Calgary’s housing market. Improved supply in higher price ranges is expected to ease the tight conditions that dominated recent years, creating more balanced market dynamics. Lower lending rates are unlocking opportunities for buyers who may have been priced out previously.
What to Watch:
- Price growth is expected to moderate to 3% as the market stabilizes.
- Demand for homes in the $600,000+ range will benefit from increased inventory, offering more choices for move-up buyers.
- Communities with lower-priced detached homes will likely see stronger price growth due to persistent demand.
For those considering selling, this market rewards preparation and competitive pricing. A well-marketed home in desirable neighborhoods will continue to attract interest.
Semi-Detached & Row Homes: Rising Stars of Affordability
Affordability challenges in the detached market have shifted many buyers toward semi-detached and row homes, a trend that’s set to continue in 2025. These property types offer a more accessible entry point while maintaining the benefits of homeownership.
Key Highlights:
- Semi-detached home prices are forecasted to grow by 3.1%, while row homes will see an increase of 3.4%.
- Rising supply levels in these segments will ease price pressures, creating opportunities for buyers.
- Affordability-focused districts, such as the North East and East Calgary, are expected to see the strongest demand and price growth.
For buyers, these property types offer a chance to step into homeownership without the higher price tag of detached homes. Sellers, meanwhile, can benefit from strong demand by presenting their homes as move-in ready options for cost-conscious buyers.
Apartments: More Choices, Moderate Price Growth
The apartment market in Calgary is experiencing significant changes as new construction adds supply to both the rental and resale sectors. In 2025, these dynamics are expected to bring more balance to a market that has seen sharp price increases in recent years.
The Outlook:
- Price growth is expected to slow to 1.8% as inventory increases and rental demand eases.
- Buyers looking for affordable options will find more choices, especially in higher-priced segments.
- Developers are adding purpose-built rental units, which will continue to compete with resale apartments and moderate price growth.
For investors, the apartment market remains a viable option, but strategic property selection will be critical in balancing rental income potential with market competition.
Economic and Demographic Trends Supporting Growth
Calgary’s real estate market isn’t just about housing—it’s deeply connected to the city’s economic and demographic trends. In 2025, Alberta’s economy is expected to grow, driven by:
- Investments in energy, AI, and alternative industries like carbon capture and food manufacturing.
- Resilience in the energy sector, supported by favorable exchange rates and the TMX pipeline.
- Anticipated rate cuts by the Bank of Canada, which will make borrowing more affordable.
While international and interprovincial migration is slowing from record highs, Calgary’s population growth remains robust compared to provincial averages. This continued influx of people will sustain demand for housing across all market segments.
What Buyers Need to Know in 2025
With increased supply and moderating price growth, buyers have a chance to find their ideal home without the competitive pressures of previous years. Here’s how you can make the most of this opportunity:
- Be Prepared: Get pre-approved for a mortgage and understand your budget to act quickly when the right property becomes available.
- Explore Your Options: With more inventory in the market, you can compare different property types and neighborhoods to find the best fit.
- Work with an Expert: Partnering with a REALTOR® who knows the local market can help you navigate this evolving landscape and secure the best deal.
Advice for Sellers in a Balancing Market
While Calgary’s real estate market remains strong, the shift toward balance means sellers need to be strategic to achieve their goals. Here’s how to succeed:
- Price It Right: Competitive pricing is crucial in attracting buyers and generating interest in a market with more options.
- Focus on Presentation: Staging your home and addressing any necessary updates can make your property stand out.
- Partner with a Pro: A knowledgeable REALTOR® will provide insights on market trends, marketing strategies, and negotiation tactics to maximize your sale.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Investors
For real estate investors, 2025 offers a mix of opportunities and challenges. Lower lending rates and increased rental supply create favorable conditions for those seeking long-term rental properties. However, choosing the right location and property type will be essential to navigate increased competition and evolving market dynamics.
Key Areas to Watch:
- Affordable neighborhoods with strong rental demand.
- Semi-detached and row homes for mid-range investment opportunities.
- High-growth districts benefiting from population inflows and infrastructure developments.
Calgary Real Estate in 2025: A Market of Opportunities
The 2025 Calgary real estate market offers a unique blend of stability and growth. With increased supply, moderating price growth, and favorable economic conditions, buyers, sellers, and investors have a chance to achieve their goals in this dynamic environment.
Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, sell and move up, or expand your investment portfolio, understanding these trends is key. As always, I’m here to provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions. Let’s navigate this exciting year together!
📩 Reach out today to start planning your real estate journey.
Why Calgary Stands Out as One of Canada’s Most Affordable Rental Markets
As we step into 2025, it’s worth taking a closer look at the rental market trends across Canada and how they highlight Calgary as an incredibly affordable place to live. For those considering a move to this vibrant city or current residents exploring their options, Calgary’s rental landscape offers unique advantages compared to other major markets across the country.
National Trends in Rental Markets
Last year, Canada experienced a notable shift in the rental market. Average asking rents for all residential property types dropped 3.2% by the end of 2024, landing at a 17-month low of $2,109 in December. This decline marked the first annual decrease in rents since 2020. In contrast to previous years of rapid rent growth—8.6% in 2023 and a staggering 12.1% in 2022—2024 signaled a cooling period for the market. This trend has been attributed to a combination of factors, including increased housing supply, changing economic conditions, and evolving tenant demands.
Calgary: A Refreshing Exception
Among Canada’s largest cities, Calgary stood out for its remarkable affordability. Average apartment rents in Calgary fell 7.2% in 2024 to $1,921, making it more budget-friendly than Montreal ($1,998), Ottawa ($2,165), Toronto ($2,632), and Vancouver ($2,882). This significant decrease in Calgary’s rental prices followed a sharp 14% increase in 2023, showcasing the city’s adaptability and value for renters.
Notably, Calgary’s three-bedroom apartment rents saw the largest decline among Canada’s biggest markets, dropping 8.2% to $2,420. This affordability is a compelling reason why families and professionals continue to see Calgary as an attractive option. The drop in rents reflects a healthy rental market that balances demand and supply while offering competitive pricing compared to other metropolitan areas.
Comparing Calgary to Other Markets
In contrast to Calgary, cities like Toronto and Vancouver remain among the priciest markets. Vancouver’s average apartment rents dropped 5.8% last year but still hover at $2,882, the highest in the country. Similarly, Toronto rents fell 7.1% to $2,632, maintaining its position as one of the most expensive rental markets in Canada. These cities face unique challenges, such as limited housing supply and higher demand, which keep their rental prices elevated.
Meanwhile, smaller markets in Alberta, such as Edmonton, experienced a 2.7% increase in rents, highlighting Calgary’s unique position as a city offering both urban amenities and financial accessibility. For individuals and families seeking to relocate within Alberta or from other provinces, Calgary represents an appealing alternative that combines affordability with a high quality of life.
What Makes Calgary Unique?
Calgary’s rental market reflects its broader economic stability and quality of life. The city offers:
- Affordable Living Costs: Despite being a major urban center, Calgary’s overall cost of living remains lower than other Canadian cities, allowing residents to enjoy a higher standard of living. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all reasonably priced, making everyday expenses manageable.
- Strong Job Market: Calgary’s diverse economy, driven by industries like energy, technology, and agriculture, continues to attract professionals seeking career opportunities. The city also fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, creating a dynamic job market with room for growth.
- Vibrant Lifestyle: From its proximity to the Rocky Mountains to a thriving cultural scene, Calgary offers something for everyone. Residents can enjoy world-class outdoor activities, festivals, and a growing culinary landscape. The city’s emphasis on community and inclusivity adds to its charm.
- Infrastructure and Accessibility: Calgary’s efficient public transportation system and well-planned neighborhoods make it easy to navigate and settle into the city. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring recreational activities, Calgary offers convenience and connectivity.
Why Renters Are Choosing Calgary
For many renters, affordability is only part of the equation. Calgary also provides a sense of community and stability that is hard to find in other large cities. The availability of quality rental options at reasonable prices means that renters can focus on building their careers, enjoying leisure activities, and planning for the future without feeling financially strained.
Additionally, Calgary’s steady economic growth has contributed to a sense of optimism among its residents. The city’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and urban development ensures that it remains a forward-thinking and attractive place to live.
Future Outlook for Calgary Renters
As we move forward, Calgary’s rental market is expected to remain stable and affordable compared to other major cities in Canada. The city’s proactive approach to housing development and urban planning helps keep supply in line with demand, preventing drastic fluctuations in rental prices. For those considering relocating or looking for rental opportunities, Calgary provides an excellent balance of affordability, lifestyle, and opportunity.
Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone seeking a fresh start, Calgary stands out as a city where you can thrive without breaking the bank. With its vibrant culture, strong economy, and commitment to affordability, Calgary continues to be a top choice for renters in Canada.
Source: Rentals.ca National Rent Report
The Importance of Investigating the Property Title Before Listing Your Home
When preparing to sell your home, one of the first tasks your real estate professional will undertake is reviewing the property title. The title is a critical document that establishes your legal ownership of the property and confirms your authority to sell it. Here’s what you need to know about this essential step.
What is a Property Title?
A property title is your legal claim to the property. It includes:
- Ownership Information: Who owns the property and their authority to sell it.
- Legal Address: The official address of the property.
- Type of Ownership: Details of the ownership structure, such as sole ownership, joint tenancy, or tenancy-in-common.
- Encumbrances: Registered items like utility rights of way, caveats, easements, or liens. These can include unpaid taxes, condominium fees, or other interests registered by third parties.
Why It Matters
Understanding what’s on the title is crucial because any discrepancies or issues can delay or derail a sale. For example:
- A lien for unpaid property taxes must be resolved before the property can be transferred to a buyer.
- Utility rights of way or easements could affect the property’s use and appeal.
How Your Real Estate Professional Helps
A knowledgeable and organized REALTOR® will carefully review the title to identify any issues. If anything seems out of order, they’ll explain what it means and recommend professionals, such as lawyers or title insurance providers, to help clear up any complications before listing your home.
Taking the time to ensure the property title is accurate and free of complications not only makes the selling process smoother but also demonstrates professionalism to potential buyers.
Real Property Reports: Why They’re Crucial for a Successful Home Sale
When selling your home, having an updated Real Property Report (RPR) with a municipal stamp of compliance is more than a formality—it’s a necessity. Here’s why the RPR is so important and what you need to do to prepare yours for a sale.
What is a Real Property Report?
An RPR is a legal document that provides a detailed survey of your property. It includes:
- Property Boundaries: Confirms the exact dimensions of your property.
- Structures: Shows the location of buildings, fences, patios, and other structures.
- Encroachments: Identifies if anything, like a deck or fence, is outside your property boundaries.
- Utility Rights of Way: Marks any easements or rights of way that could affect the property’s use.
This document should also have a compliance stamp from your local municipality, verifying that the property meets local zoning and building regulations.
Why It’s Important
Without an up-to-date RPR, you could face significant delays or even jeopardize the sale of your home. The purchase contract typically requires the seller to provide an RPR with compliance, and not having one could lead to:
- Voided Sales: A buyer may walk away from the deal if the RPR isn’t ready.
- Withheld Funds: A buyer might hold back part of the payment until the RPR is completed and compliant.
Updating Your RPR
If you’ve made changes to your property—such as adding a deck, fence, or garage—you’ll need to update the RPR. In many cases, updating the original RPR is less expensive than commissioning a new one, provided the original survey company is still in business.
How Your REALTOR® Can Help
Your real estate professional will guide you through the process, ensuring you have the necessary documentation ready before listing your home. They may refer you to survey companies or legal professionals to expedite the process and ensure everything is in order.
The bottom line? An updated RPR with compliance is a small step that makes a big difference in ensuring a smooth and successful home sale. Prepare early to avoid unnecessary delays and complications.
The 3 Keystones to Selling Your Home: Price, Presentation, and Marketing
When selling your home, achieving the best possible outcome requires more than just putting up a “For Sale” sign. Success is built on three essential keystones: price, presentation, and marketing. Each plays a critical role, and when combined effectively, they maximize your home’s potential for a successful sale.
Keystone 1: Price
The first question every seller asks is, “How much will my home sell for?” The truth is, the seller and their REALTOR® set the asking price, but the buyer ultimately determines the selling price. The key is to make the asking price attractive enough to draw in potential buyers while maximizing your return.
A skilled real estate professional doesn’t just throw out numbers—they do their homework. I approach pricing with a data-driven method called a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This involves:
- Examining comparable recently sold homes.
- Adjusting for unique features (both pluses and minuses).
- Arriving at a price point that reflects market trends and your home’s value.
This scientific approach ensures you’re priced competitively while leaving room to negotiate. Remember, pricing goes hand-in-hand with the next keystone: presentation.
Keystone 2: Presentation
The way your home looks and feels has a powerful impact on buyers. First impressions matter, and a well-presented home can mean the difference between a quick sale and a property sitting on the market.
Here’s where my mantra comes into play: “Less is more.” De-cluttering, de-personalizing, and neutralizing your home allows buyers to envision themselves living there.
Quick Presentation Tips:
- Neutral Paint Colors: Buyers gravitate toward clean, neutral tones. They sell faster and for more money.
- De-Clutter and De-Personalize: Pack away personal collections and decor to widen your buyer pool.
- Highlight Key Features: Make sure your home earns a positive nickname like the “bright kitchen house” rather than the “orange wall house.”
Sometimes, a professional stager can work wonders, using your furniture in new ways or bringing in additional elements to elevate the space. Whether it’s staging or making simple repairs, these efforts pay off in both speed and sale price.
Keystone 3: Marketing
In today’s market, marketing is where the magic happens. Your home needs maximum exposure to reach potential buyers—and that’s where I come in.
The #1 platform for showcasing homes is the MLS® (Multiple Listing Service®), but not all MLS® listings are created equal. Professional photography, detailed write-ups, and cutting-edge tools like drone photography and virtual tours make your listing stand out.
My approach to marketing includes:
- Professional Photos & Drone Shots: High-quality images capture your home’s best angles and surroundings.
- Virtual Tours: Allow buyers to explore your home remotely, making it accessible to out-of-town or tech-savvy buyers.
- Social Media Exposure: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn amplify your listing’s reach to audiences who may not be actively searching but stumble upon your home.
In addition, the brokerage I work with offers international exposure, ensuring your listing gets seen not just locally but globally.
Selling a home requires a balance of strategy and skill, and these three keystones—price, presentation, and marketing—are the foundation for success. When all three are executed effectively, your home has the best chance to sell quickly and for top dollar.
Commissions in Real Estate: What You Pay vs. What You Get
Commissions in Real Estate: What You Pay vs. What You Get
“Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.”
—Warren Buffet
When selling a home, one of the most talked-about topics is real estate commissions. This is how real estate professionals earn their income, but there’s often confusion about what commissions cover and why they matter. Let’s break it down.
No Standard Commission in Real Estate
Contrary to popular belief, there is no “standard commission” in the real estate industry. Having a fixed commission would be considered price fixing and is illegal. Some REALTORS® offer discounted services at lower fees, which often translates to fewer services. Others, like me, provide a full suite of services and work at full-service brokerages to deliver maximum value to clients.
A Unique Payment Model
Real estate is one of the few professions where the client holds all the power. Here’s why:
- No Upfront Costs: Unlike most services where payment is required before work begins, real estate professionals invest their time, expertise, and personal funds upfront.
- Performance-Based Payment: REALTORS® only get paid when a transaction is successful and the sale is completed. If the deal doesn’t close, they don’t receive compensation—even though they’ve worked tirelessly to market the property, negotiate offers, and ensure compliance with legal regulations.
To put this into perspective, imagine hiring a website designer who invests hours building your website. Instead of paying them upfront or on delivery, you only pay them if you decide to launch the site. That’s the level of risk REALTORS® take for their clients.
The Power of Small Talk: Why Every Detail Matters in Real Estate
Over the course of nearly 15 years in real estate, I’ve seen it all—the highs, the lows, the unexpected twists, and the subtle details that make or break a deal. But there’s one particular experience I’ll never forget, and it taught me a powerful lesson about the importance of looking beyond the obvious.
It was a regular property showing with a family interested in buying a home. As we pulled up to the house, a group of kids was playing outside next door. One boy, maybe six or seven years old, spotted us and excitedly asked if we were going to be his new neighbors. Wanting to be friendly, I engaged in a brief, casual chat before heading inside with my clients.
After the showing, as I was locking up, I turned to the boy and asked, “So, are you going to miss your neighbors when they move?”
Without missing a beat, he declared: “No. He’s going to jail and she drinks too much.”
I nearly choked on my own breath. My clients, meanwhile, were trying their hardest not to burst into laughter.
Now here’s the twist—despite that shocking tidbit, my clients really liked the home. And armed with this new piece of information, we went on to submit an offer and negotiated a very good price.
The Lesson: Small Conversations, Big Insights
It’s easy to get tunnel vision when viewing homes. Buyers often focus on the layout, the number of bedrooms, the size of the backyard, and the price. But a home isn’t just defined by its walls—it’s also about the environment and community that surrounds it. The little details, the neighborhood dynamics, and the community atmosphere can all significantly impact your decision.
In this case, a casual, friendly conversation with a young neighbor provided crucial context that helped my clients make a more informed choice. To be clear, I wasn’t probing for information or conducting an interrogation; I was simply being personable. But this small interaction opened the door to insights we would have otherwise missed.
A REALTOR®’s Role: Looking Beyond the Obvious
As a REALTOR®, my job is about more than just unlocking doors and writing contracts. It’s about:
- Asking the right questions: Sometimes the best insights come from casual conversations or simple observations.
- Understanding community dynamics: Knowing the neighborhood can be just as important as knowing the home.
- Going the extra mile: Whether it’s chatting with neighbors, researching the area, or uncovering details that aren’t in the listing, every piece of information can be valuable.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it’s my role to ensure you have a complete picture. Sometimes that picture is painted by little moments, unexpected conversations, and insights that go beyond the property itself.
So, the next time you’re viewing a home, remember—a little chat might just go a long way!
Looking for a REALTOR® who knows how to dig deeper and uncover the details that matter? I’d love to help you find the perfect home or negotiate the best deal. Reach out anytime!
Patrick Murray
REALTOR®, MCNE, CCS
