Capitalising on Hot Vancouver Condos in Developing Areas of the City

A lot of people want to move to Vancouver, especially those looking for luxury accommodations. With the city’s hub already packed with homes and commercial lots, it is hoped that new developments around the region’s periphery, like those in Kerrisdale, can provide more living space options to prospective homebuyers. There will be many looking for a luxury Vancouver condo to live in, and you can capitalise on this gold rush. Even if condos are hot commodities on the Vancouver market, it pays to be very careful in making such investments. A lot of research and considerations must be made before choosing among the various condos in Vancouver.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/capitalising-on-hot-vancouver-condos-in-developing-areas-of-the-city

Searching for and Purchasing Affordable Vancouver Houses for Sale

Vancouver’s desirability, for one, has increased in recent times, prompting its housing price spike. Buyers, however, should not focus solely on the relatively high prices of real estate in the city, instead, they should keep in mind that properties in Vancouver and in other prime cities are great investments. Although it might seem unfeasible at this point, it is still possible to find affordable Vancouver houses for sale with the right help. The sound advice of local realty experts such as RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside will be invaluable to buyers looking to score a reasonable housing deal. Real estate professionals are not just there to help buyers transact their home purchases, they also have vital in-depth knowledge of the local industry and market conditions, which can help buyers find properties with the most reasonable prices at the most opportune occasions. The experts can also help buyers in negotiating for better prices with sellers.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/searching-for-and-purchasing-affordable-vancouver-houses-for-sale

Sizzling Real Estate Market: Choosing Among Vancouver Houses for Sale

If you are searching among the beautiful Vancouver houses for sale and have found the property you want, it’s best to act quickly. In a sizzling real estate market, properties change hands very quickly, so you should do your best to match that pace. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you acquire your dream home: Get Pre-approved If you believe you require financing to purchase a new house, sort your finances right now. Head over to your bank and get pre-approved for a mortgage. By doing so, you can easily set a budget to work with as well as hand in an offer to a seller as soon as you find a house you love.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/sizzling-real-estate-market-choosing-among-vancouver-houses-for-sale

Location is a Crucial Factor when Finding Vancouver Houses for Sale

While these converted residential properties may just be the nice, quaint home that some families seek, Vancouver only has 56 of them. What’s more, 36 of them are still occupied by active park caretakers to this day. For this reason, homebuyers would have to look elsewhere to find the house of their dreams. Take, for instance, RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside’s listings for Vancouver houses for sale. Sure, a simple house surrounded by trees and friendly neighbors may sound idyllic, but homebuyers should also consider other factors like peace and order, ease of transportation, and access to schools when looking for a house to buy. Fortunately, Vancouver doesn’t have a shortage of neighborhoods that meet these criteria. Kitsilano, for example, is arguably one of the West Side’s best communities, with its beaches, cafes, and organic markets that appeal to young professionals as well as growing families.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/location-is-a-crucial-factor-when-finding-vancouver-houses-for-sale

Maximize Real Estate Purchases with Renovations

Looking at a home for sale, oftentimes the only thing that’ll keep you from deciding to purchase it is the fact that certain parts—especially the exterior ones—have been rendered out of date. Not to worry—many owners are willing to slash their prices just a tad if you agree to shoulder the renovations yourself. Just don’t be afraid to broach the subject.

A Vancouver Condo Unit can Suit You Best, if You Know Where to Look

Gifford and Moore’s story is a reflection of why many people prefer to buy a Vancouver condo than a single-family house of their own. While condos typically have a wide price range, the lower bracket is usually affordable enough to cater to first-time buyers and young families. Trusted real estate professionals, such as those from RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside, can point buyers in the right direction and help them find an affordable condo that suits their needs. This doesn’t change the fact that condo living could be an excellent choice for a young family. Aside from the lower unit price, condos give people access to amenities they’d normally pay to have in their house—think swimming pools, gyms, and recreation rooms. Many condo units are also designed to cater to a certain demographic, which means that prospective tenants can expect to spend time with like-minded individuals and foster positive relationships with them.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/a-vancouver-condo-unit-can-suit-you-best-if-you-know-where-to-look

What Type of Vancouver Condo Should You Buy?

Given how Vancouver’s real estate market is behaving at present, it is not surprising why a lot more people think it better to buy a condo unit than buy a house of their own. True enough, it is estimated that in 2013, more than a million Canadian households owned at least one condominium, either for living or rental purposes. If you want to follow suit, then you should be aware of the various types of condos you’ll find in Vancouver.

Vancouver Houses for Sale: Important Money-saving Tips for Buyers

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver says that these figures might be skewed by sales of luxury homes, which naturally have higher asking prices. Regardless, statistics also show that home sales in the Greater Vancouver region are actually on the rise, reaching 3,061, which is 3.9% higher than the same period last year. If you want to buy Vancouver houses for sale, though, be sure to take heed of these money-saving tips from real estate agency RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/vancouver-houses-for-sale-important-money-saving-tips-for-buyers

More Legroom, Please: Families Demand Larger Vancouver Condo Units

Here’s a fact you may not know: about two-thirds of the country’s population lives in the suburbs. Of course, not everyone can afford a home with a picket fence and a front yard—especially in Vancouver, which the Economist Intelligence Unit says is the priciest city to reside in in North America. Hence, many families opt to buy Vancouver condo units instead as they are more affordable. The Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board says that over the last five years, the cost of a typical condo on the east side increased by just 21%, while single-detached homes soared by 50%-60%.
http://remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/more-legroom-please-families-demand-larger-vancouver-condo-units

For Your Home Inspection, Start with These Places

The home inspection is one of the most essential steps involved when buying a new house in Vancouver. While a listing on a multiple listing service (MLS) may hold all the important information buyers seek, it wouldn’t hurt for them to visit the listed properties in person and watch out for any defects. Buyers would do well to work with professional home inspectors who exactly what to look for.

Does a Vancouver Condo Suit Your Family?

More and more families in Vancouver are opting to downsize or to live in smaller spaces instead of investing in a single family home. If you’re one of these families and are thinking of switching to condo living, then costs, comfort, and convenience are bound to influence your decision. In case you’re still on the fence, then read on to learn more.

Relocating? Consider Looking at Suitable Vancouver Houses for Sale

This sense of wonderment and bewilderment about the city isn’t hard to understand. On the one hand, Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in North America to live in. At the same time, it’s also one of the most livable cities on the planet, consistently ranking in top three of many such lists. If you plan on relocating, RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside says there are many reasons why you should look at the many Vancouver houses for sale in the market.
http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/relocating-consider-looking-at-suitable-vancouver-houses-for-sale

A Vancouver Condo Remains an Affordable Housing Option for Residents

If your savings account has considerably less zeroes in it, though, you can purchase a more affordable Vancouver condo instead. Indeed, multi-family properties like condominiums have become a major fixture in the city’s housing market—as of 2011, they represent 37.7% of all new dwellings built in major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. Aside from their more budget-friendly price tags, condo units also offer many other advantages over traditional homes. For instance, they require less maintenance because most of the upkeep is undertaken by the condo association or property managers (funded by the residents’ monthly contributions, of course). What’s more, condominiums are often located at the heart of the city, a stone’s throw away from major shopping and business districts. Another draw are the amenities they provide, such as swimming pools, entertainment pavilions, and fitness centers, among many others.
http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/a-vancouver-condo-remains-an-affordable-housing-option-for-residents

Need for Speed—Purchasing a House for Sale Quickly

In a competitive real estate market, speed is the name of the game. You don’t have the luxury to sit on your decision for a week, as you risk losing a house for sale to another interested buyer. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help speed up your buying process. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you close a deal quickly:

Pay in Cash

If you have the space in your budget, always try to pay in cash. Many sellers are eager to bypass cashing a cheque, which helps them save time and gives them the money they need faster. Be careful though, as cash payments are much harder to recoup if something goes awry.

Get Pre-approved for a Loan

Make sure you have already been pre-approved for a housing loan before you start looking at real estate. Not only does getting pre-approved help establish a budget, but it also shows a seller that all he or she needs to do is to agree to sell the condo to you.

Increase Your Down Payment

Typically, down payments are set at 20 per cent of the total cost of the home. If you have breathing room in your savings, you may want to try offering a larger down payment (around 25-30 per cent). Don’t forget that sellers are in this to earn money—the more money you offer upfront, the more likely they are to sell you a home.

Care for Some Classy Condo Living?

Downsizing does not mean downgrading when you buy a Vancouver condo. You can certainly enjoy a luxurious lifestyle despite the smaller space. Take a look at these tips to keep condo living classy:

Condo choice

It all boils down to picking the right residence – from its location to the specific unit and amenities. Set a budget or apply for financing, and outline the features that you’re looking for in a high-rise home. You can even choose luxury units if your finances allow it. Find a reliable and licensed REALTOR® to help you search for the perfect place.

Creating an organised, well-designed home

The design trends for living in a small space involve using efficient yet beautiful furnishings. As you customise your new home, try to incorporate double-duty furniture that save space, such as tables or benches with multiple drawers or shelves, and avoid cluttering the place. Maximise your balcony, and turn it into a chic outdoor living space.

Community living

The literally tight community of condo owners stays peaceful and cordial through rules and etiquette. Follow the guidelines and regulations of your condo administration. Be familiar with your neighbours, and be mindful that you’re separated only by walls, floors, and ceilings. That said, you have to keep noises to a minimum, and respect each other’s privacy. By doing these things, you can help maintain an ideal atmosphere for everyone in the building.

Things to Consider When Buying Houses in Vancouver

There are many reasons why people in Vancouver, as well as in other parts of the world, go house-hunting. These include being relocated for work or moving to a much bigger place to accommodate a growing family. Regardless of the reason, there are key factors that remain crucial in ensuring a good purchase. Here are some that you need to consider before buying a house for sale.

Hastings: A Downtown Crown Lost

The historic corridor of Hastings Street, Vancouver is in the process of reclaiming the spotlight.
https://remaxcrestws.wordpress.com/2014/06/13/hastings-a-downtown-crown-lost/

Real Estate Tips: Selling Your Vancouver Condo

In recent months, Vancouver condo sales have been going north, especially for luxury condos. If you’re looking to cash in on your investment, now would be a good time to do so.

Of course, selling a condo in a hot market can be challenging due to the presence of competition. As such, you need to find ways to make your condo stand out. Here are some ideas to consider:

Looking to Invest in Houses for Sale in Vancouver? Try False Creek

"It’s easy to realize that this is the opportune time to start investing in the area. If you’re looking to purchase Vancouver houses for sale as an investment, False Creek is the place to check. With the Concord Pacific’s project soon to be underway, False Creek’s future looks bright. First time investors should, however, take note of one extremely important thing before investing in the area: working with a local REALTOR® will pay dividends in the outcome of your deal. A REALTOR® with many years of experience in the business and knows the locale like the back of his or her hand will be good at negotiating, to get you the best price for the houses for sale in Vancouver you’re interested in."
http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/looking-to-invest-in-houses-for-sale-in-vancouver-try-false-creek

Vancouver Condos for Sale: The Most Expensive, and For Good Reason

"Culture Vancouver is a melting pot of all sorts of cultures. It is home to a rich mixture of people from around the world—Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Italian, British, and even Aborigines. Wherever you go in Vancouver, you’ll find people from different parts of the world living together amicably. These reasons and more are why real estate costs in the city are at a record high, so if you’re thinking about purchasing a Vancouver condo or any other type of property, you’ll need a real estate firm such as RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside with a wide knowledge of the market."
http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/vancouver-condos-for-sale-the-most-expensive-and-for-good-reason

Tips on Restoring Character Homes

A character home may need considerable upkeep every now and then to preserve its unique quality and retain its functionality. While a lot of Vancouver houses for sale are ready for teardown, character homes typically only need little tweaks to keep their antique features intact and to spruce up parts where time has taken a visible toll.<br>

Here are some restoration tips to consider:<br>

Update the utilities.

Hire licensed electricians, plumbers, and contractors to rewire, repair, and (in some cases) replace the home’s utilities. These professionals will make sure that your home’s electricity lines, plumbing, and HVAC are all in line with current building codes even while the home’s historic details are left untouched. You can also bring in new appliances to improve functionality.<br>

Patch up the roof.

Authentic roofs like Spanish or slate tile roofs have life expectancies of 100 years or more. Look for roofers who specialize in these materials and other aspects of character home restoration.<br>

Weather-strip the windows.

Save your windows, especially wooden ones. The materials used for the windows of character homes are usually highly durable. Instead of replacing them completely, see whether weather-stripping or caulking can make the windows more energy-efficient and versatile.<br>

Be patient when painting.

Gently clean the walls and other surfaces with natural cleansers. Removing the existing layers of paint can be time-consuming, so be patient. Make sure that you don’t damage the decades-old patina of the paint in the process. Repaint with colors that closely resemble the originals.

Yaletown: From Warehouses to "Wow" Houses

Yaletown is Vancouver's Cinderella story. Bordering False Creek, a vital harbor, this suburb in downtown Vancouver was once dotted with warehouses and marshalling yards. It was one of many areas of the city influenced by the growth of the train industry during the late 19th century. While it remained a major industrial sector in the 1970s, some professionals had other plans in mind.

Today, Yaletown is a sprawling district of modern conveniences, with remnants of its industrial past well preserved. The Vancouver Heritage Register accounts for 27 heritage sites in the area. One popular site is the Roundhouse Community Centre, a former hangar for locomotives. Today, the brick-and-mortar structure stands beside the steel-and-glass lobby.

Look at the whole of Yaletown from any high-rise condo and you can see traces of the drastic change. At first glance, it's as if Yaletown was never a marshalling yard in years past. Decades of development transformed this former industrial city into an entertainment hub filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Yaletown's story is an inspiration not just to Canada but also to the world. Its transformation perfectly illustrates the sense in preserving vestiges of the past for the new generation to appreciate. The train itself was a revolution, a major player in shaping Canada's economy.

Mistakes to Avoid in First-Time Home Buying

Without proper preparation and guidance, house buyers can commit costly mistakes that may lead to serious consequences. Young couples and real estate investor newbies have the general tendency to commit such mistakes when buying a home for the first time. In fact, even buyers with previous experience could fall prey to some blunders.

Financing Faults

Real estate is a serious investment, which means that buyers’ finances should be in order before they decide to buy a home. First and foremost, they should ascertain their budget. People who are searching for Vancouver houses for sale should secure their mortgage, and calculate their income and expenses to satisfy the loan in a timely or convenient manner.

Other investors may also choose to pay outright with substantial savings or income from selling assets. They should never purchase a new house when the previous one, whose value will be used to finance the new home, is still in the market. This makes sure that the buyer doesn’t get stuck in a rut, and that he or she doesn’t have to acquire debt for the new investment.

Pitfalls without Pros

Trusted professionals are the buyer’s ally in purchasing a home. Experts should conduct thorough home inspections with the buyer to determine the latter’s choices. A REALTOR® provides great options within the budget, and is transparent with the features and terms of prospective properties. These pros can even guide clueless first-time home buyers throughout the whole process – from initial financing matters to closing investment deals.

Avoid these Mistakes when Buying a Vancouver Condo

Nobody can deny that the Canadian real estate industry can be very lucrative at times. However, you should know that a good buy can quickly transform into a bust in a short time, considering how fickle market rates are as well. Whether you’re buying a Vancouver condo for residence or as an investment, you need to be aware of the pitfalls you may come across.

First, buying condos or any other property entails taxes, some of which you may not be aware of if you’re not updated with current events. In Ottawa, for example, the government introduced tighter immigration laws in February 2014, which means that foreign investors can no longer protect their investment income from taxation.

Second, it’s foolhardy for you to think that your condo will naturally appreciate in value over time. History has proven that a real estate boom could sometimes lead to a huge drop in demand, therefore, a drop in prices as well.

Third, upgrading your property in the hopes of selling it for a huge profit isn’t always a good idea. After all, some buyers can be very picky when it comes to certain features they want for their condo.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, you need to be absolutely sure about your intensions in buying a condo. Shifting from “buying for residence” to “buying for investment” in short order can lead to unforeseen consequences. 

Important Areas to Inspect Before Buying Vancouver Houses for Sale

When it comes to average quality of life, the Great White North is a great choice, but you still need to be particular in choosing your new home. Since you’re going to commit to a significant investment, might as well get your money’s worth. There are some vital parts of the house that you should carefully inspect when you’re considering Vancouver houses for sale.

Basic utilities like the electricity, HVAC, plumbing and water heaters should be in good working condition and up-to-date with standard building energy codes. Sometimes, these appliances may even be relatively new as they are replaced prior to being sold. These are implements that you would use on a daily basis, so make sure that they are safe and fully functional.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/important-areas-to-inspect-before-buying-vancouver-houses-for-sale

How a Minimalist House Design Benefits You

When shopping around for houses for sale in Vancouver, some people look into those with all the bells and whistles: opulent staircases, designer shingle roofs, Corinthian columns in the entryway, and others. Others, however, want to keep things simple. If you’re on the lookout for a new home, a minimalist house design has more advantages:

Top 3 Reasons Why Investing on a Vancouver Condo Trumps Other Choices

Condos in Vancouver are strategically built within or near the metropolitan business districts. Busy professionals mainly benefit from the proximity, especially for those with on-call or overtime jobs. Public transportation is more accessible, while private vehicle owners can save on gas and parking space costs since they have personal parking at home.

3. Condos come with amenities and many perks.

Selecting Vancouver condos for sale recommended by established companies like RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside has its advantages and attractive perks. You can come across condos with complete furnishing, top-of-the-line security, storage lockers, gorgeous views, heated swimming pools, and even gyms. Realtors can even help you with financing through loans and other programs.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/top-3-reasons-why-investing-on-a-vancouver-condo-trumps-other-choices

Can You Hold Parties in the Condo?

A condo may be the ideal space in a concrete jungle like Vancouver, but not exactly the right venue for a party. At least, it depends on how many guests you’re having and how rowdy they are. For instance, a small condo unit should be every indication that it's a less-than-ideal venue for a party of, say, 30 people.

Not a single condo bylaw foregoes the concept of "nuisance" in common law. This is defined as a condition that prevents owners from enjoying their properties in certain ways. The noise of an after-dark party is just one example. Nuisance can range from barbecue smoke clouding a neighbor's property to someone's stuff blocking your front door.

Luxury Vancouver Houses for Sale

As one of the most livable cities in the world, Vancouver attracts a rich population—both in numbers and wealth. Luxury Vancouver houses for sale are greatly in demand at present, so it is best to invest in a property immediately. With extensive listings that include all kinds of luxury homes, you're bound to find your dream home.

House-a-Lot: Carefully Choosing Affordable Vancouver Houses for Sale

Qualified REALTORS® can also paint a more accurate picture of the local real estate market and are also in a good position to help out buyers in choosing the right properties. Armed with up-to-date information from multiple listing services, REALTORS® can supply homebuyers with a range of homes that fit the client’s specified budget range. Additionally, these real estate professionals can look out for foreclosed properties that are potentially much more inexpensive to acquire.

A highly experienced real estate agent can also help negotiate for a good price on a suitable house for sale in Vancouver. In other words, first-time buyers can’t afford to overlook the benefits of working with a capable real estate agent or REALTOR® who can help them find hidden property gems regardless of prevailing market conditions.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/house-a-lot-carefully-choosing-affordable-vancouver-houses-for-sale

Living the High-Rise Life: The Perks of Owning a Vancouver Condo Unit

Condos are some of the most useful and enjoyable living spaces buyers can choose. Aside from proximity to key urban areas, condos are typically more affordable than stand-alone homes. Condo ownership also gives the buyer access to common amenities like pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities that may not be readily available to those in detached properties.

Due to the sheer number of condos in Vancouver to choose from, buyers may need some help to sift through all the options. Real estate experts such as RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside can help buyers find suitable condo units at appropriate prices. Such a real estate company can also help buyers locate a condo unit within a specified neighborhood to take advantage of the property’s proximity to business and recreational opportunities.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/living-the-high-rise-life-the-perks-of-owning-a-vancouver-condo-unit

Buy a Property or Save for Retirement?

The biggest financial decision for Gen Y-ers these days is to choose between establishing a retirement savings fund and buying a property. Many people in their 20s or 30s can’t afford to have both, so it’s either one or the other. If you’re one of the majority, you need to start thinking about what really matters to you as a financial goal.

Prices of Vancouver Houses for Sale Stable for 2014, Economists Say

How do prices of good Vancouver houses for sale stay stable? According to Robert Shiller of The New York Times, inflation is a major but only one indicator. Today’s home, according to Shiller, may cost around $50,000 more in 10 years; but that’s just the nominal dollars speaking. Taking inflation into account (real dollars), there may not be much of a change in value.

Overall, price stability can be good news for buyers of good houses for sale in Vancouver and other places. Construction and technology also affect price stability for real estate, constantly building homes to meet demand. Demand and supply will work its magic as usual, as Multiple Listing Systems like RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside deals with buyers and sellers alike.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/prices-of-vancouver-houses-for-sale-stable-for-2014-economists-say

Deciding between Brand New or Resale when Buying a Vancouver Condo

When going for the brand new option, buyers have to clarify if the condominium for sale is in the pre-construction phase. In such cases, buyers will have to rely on their visualisation skills to get a clear picture of what their condominium will look like once completed. Sellers will go through the floor plans and model suites with prospective buyers, but there is no guarantee that the final product will come out exactly as was shown to them.

When buying existing Vancouver condos for sale at reasonable prices, the rule “what you see is what you get” often applies. Another thing, buyers don’t have to guess or visualise what the condo will look like. Another advantage of resale condos is that it almost allows for immediate occupancy—no waiting necessary.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/deciding-between-brand-new-or-resale-when-buying-a-vancouver-condo

Do-It-Yourself Home Inspection

Real estate insiders encourage homebuyers to hire a professional home inspector before committing to any purchase. Buyers on a tight budget can, however, opt to conduct the inspection on their own. Here are some tips for a successful DIY home inspection: 

Take a look at the garden. This part may seem superficial at first, but nothing spoils the beauty of a home quite like a yard that resembles a giant litter box. Buyers should also factor in the cost of hiring a landscape specialist to turn the garden from drab to fab. 

Check the roof and siding. No existing home has immaculate roofing and siding. A few worn-out shingles and small patches of peeling paint are to be expected when the roof and siding are examined up-close. However, when the extent of damage is readily apparent from a single glance, one may need to think twice about buying the home. On the other hand, new roof and siding can significantly jack up the price. 

Look out for cracks on walls and ceilings. Cracks on this areas can mean that the foundation of the home is already giving way. These flaws can render any home unsafe during times of extreme weathers. Water stains on the walls and ceilings may serve as indications that the roofing system is already compromised.

Vancouver Houses for Sale—Overcoming the First-time Homebuyer Hump

Evaluate your budget

“The first step in buying a new home should be to take a look at what you can afford and how you are going to pay for it,” says Green. A good start would be to ensure that your monthly housing costs stay at or below 32 percent of your gross monthly income. Add to that, it’s also best to ensure that your entire monthly debt load (which includes your mortgage, utility bills, and credit card payments) shouldn’t go over 40 percent of your gross monthly income.

Find a good mortgage broker

Choosing the right mortgage is not as simple as choosing the one with the cheapest rate. Mortgage brokers have access to the right lenders, and can exert influence and chase benefits in a way that may be too difficult to handle yourself. “Over 25 per cent of Canadians used a mortgage broker for their last transaction, and about 47 per cent of all first-time home buyers used a mortgage broker,” adds Green.

Get preapproved

It’s important to get a pre-approved mortgage from your chosen lender. This will help you identify the price range of the homes you should be looking at and ensure that you can afford your purchase. “The pre-approval process consists of three quick and easy steps,” says Green. “Once this is done, your file will be sent for a pre-approval to the lenders that offer the best rate and product to suit your needs.”

Follow the tips above so you can avoid the various pitfalls homebuyers are likely to encounter. Don’t forget to team up with a reliable real estate company like RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside that can spare you from a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety when considering prime Vancouver houses for sale.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/vancouver-houses-for-sale-overcoming-the-first-time-homebuyer-hump

Cunning Ways to Make Small Spaces Look Big

Not long ago, The Globe and Mail asked: “Can you live in a condo space as big as two parking spaces?” The answer, surprisingly, could never be more optimistic: “Why not?” Yet a condo unit 11 metres deep and 5 metres wide, which translates to 55 square metres, is a bit too small by Canadian standards. 

Such a compact space falls short of the average floor space requirement in Canada, which is 72 square meters as of 2009. However, that doesn’t stop condo developers from building units the size of a bedroom. After all, certain design innovations make it possible to live in a smaller space without sacrificing comfort. 

 For instance, condo residents can opt for foldable sofas and tables that can be pulled out as needed and stored in strategic compartments when not in use. Certain condo units in and around the Vancouver area now have this feature. Appliances have also grown more compact throughout the years. Bulky TV sets and blenders have since given way to wall-mounted LED TVs and handheld food processors, thus, eating up less space without compromising performance. 

These appliances are also more energy efficient than their predecessors. Yet arguably the most notable thing about compact condos is the integration of various spaces. Kitchens, for instance, can now seamlessly connect to the dining area and living room, which is the ideal arrangement for those who prefer to dine and watch TV at the same time.

Vancouver Condo Units For Sale—Condo Living is Where the Action Is

Why buy a condo?

Condos are a perfect fit for people on the go, particularly up-and-coming professionals who want to be where all the action is. The benefits of buying a condo include not having to worry about exterior upkeep, as well as access to well-maintained common amenities like a gym or a pool. However, keep in mind that buying a condo is a lot different than buying a house.

Two important tips for buying a condo

The first thing you must remember when buying a condo is that you have exclusive right to what’s inside the unit, while all exterior areas are owned in common with other condo owners. The second thing is that you can’t remodel at will, a fact which is often stated in a condo’s CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions). Be sure to obtain a copy of this document before you purchase a condo.

To find the right Vancouver condo for sale, trusted real estate companies like RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside are your best online resources.

http://www.remax-crest-vancouver-bc.com/vancouver-condo-units-for-sale-condo-living-is-where-the-action-is

Keeping Behavior in Check at an Open House

Buying a home is something that most people look forward to, especially if it's their first foray into home ownership. However, sometimes, eagerness and excitement can make them unaware of how they behave, specifically when they are looking into the homes they are interested in or attending open houses. If you are shopping around for your dream home, remember that good behavior can go a long way and may even land you a good price.

If the property owner is giving you a tour, remember that voicing out what is on your mind is not necessarily helpful. You may feel like criticizing the owner for choosing a velvet couch or wall-to-wall carpeting even though they own three golden retrievers that shed hair like crazy. Keep in mind that you are there to see if the house is a good fit for you and your family, not judge how the previous occupants lived.

While you may be enthusiastic about examining every corner of the home as if a crime scene investigator to spot possible problems like peeling paint and such, be aware that there may be areas that the owner still want to keep as private as possible, such as the kids' bedroom or their master bedroom. Thus, don't invite yourself in a locked room unless the owner grants you permission to do so. By displaying good behavior, you may just receive the deal of a lifetime.

A Condo Unit Close to the Skies or the Ground?

Do you enjoy the majestic view from the top floors of Vancouver’s condos? Do you find condos closer to the ground more convenient for your kids and daily baggage?

There’s no concrete answer as to whether ground or top-floor condo units are better. In the end, they’re just like your average living space, just situated multiple floors away from one another. Upon closer look, however, both ground and top-floor units offer practical advantages you can consider when you’re in the market for a condo unit.

Condo units closer to the ground enjoy the benefit of easy access. If you often carry heavy bags, it won’t take you as long to get home to your ground-floor unit than a top-floor one. In addition, you’re generally safer in a fire because you can reach the ground more quickly and escape the building. Ground-floor units are also good if you have kids; they may get tired even in the elevator ride.

Top-floor units have their own pros. A day in Vancouver can get really noisy, but people living on top-floor units will barely hear the sounds of progress. Add the fact that dust is less likely to settle on top-floor units and you have a clean, low-maintenance unit at your disposal. There are also instances when people living closer to the skies can predict the weather more accurately.