How to Thrive in Calgary’s Competitive Homebuying Landscape

a miniature house with a key

Calgary’s real estate scene has experienced substantial growth in demand recently, resulting in a highly competitive environment for prospective homeowners. Boasting a thriving economy, lively city living, and a robust sense of community, it’s no surprise that many individuals are seeking to invest in property within this dynamic Canadian metropolis. Nonetheless, the heightened demand has led to an intensely competitive buyer’s market, making the quest for the ideal home rather challenging. In this article, we’ll discuss crucial tips and tactics for successfully navigating Calgary’s competitive housing market.

Comprehending the Buyer’s Market

A buyer’s market arises when available houses for sale Calgary surpass the number of interested purchasers. During such times, property sellers might find it difficult to offload their homes, creating advantageous conditions for buyers. However, even in a competitive buyer’s market like Calgary – where demand is high despite ample inventory – buyers should be ready to act promptly and decisively to secure their dream house.

Establish a Feasible Budget

It is essential for prospective homebuyers to set a realistic budget from the onset. In a highly competitive market, falling into bidding wars and overextending one’s finances is all too easy. Knowing your budget beforehand helps mitigate the risk of becoming smitten with an unaffordable property. Obtaining mortgage pre-approval enhances your chances by highlighting your seriousness and buying power to sellers.

Determine Your Non-Negotiables

It is crucial for buyers within competitive markets to pinpoint their non-negotiable property features. Although having an extensive wishlist might be tempting, it is vital to prioritize amenities that truly matter to you. Doing so will allow you to streamline your property search and facilitate quicker decisions when ideal opportunities arise.

Be Prepared to Act Fast

In competitive housing situations, timing is crucial. Be ready to move swiftly when an attractive property hits the market. Maintain open communication with your real estate agent to ensure immediate scheduling of viewings when potential homes become available. Hesitation can result in missed opportunities and disappointment.

Work with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

Having a reputable and experienced real estate agent by your side is a significant advantage in a competitive market. A skilled agent who is well-versed in the Calgary real estate scene can help you find suitable properties quickly and negotiate on your behalf. They can also provide insights into market trends, pricing, and property valuations.

Be Flexible with Negotiations

While it’s essential to stick to your budget, being flexible in negotiations can give you an edge in a competitive market. Consider offering a fair price and be open to minor concessions to make your offer more appealing to the seller. However, avoid getting into bidding wars that can lead to overspending.

Don’t Overlook Fixer-Uppers

In a competitive market, you may find that move-in ready homes get snatched up quickly. Don’t dismiss the potential of fixer-uppers if they fit your budget and location preferences. With a bit of renovation and TLC, you could turn a diamond in the rough into your dream home.

Stay Informed about New Listings

In a fast-paced market, staying informed about new listings is crucial. Work closely with your real estate agent to receive updates on new properties that match your criteria. Set up alerts on real estate websites and keep an eye on social media platforms where agents often share new listings.

Be Prepared for Multiple Offers

In a competitive buyer’s market, multiple offers on a property are not uncommon. Mentally prepare yourself for this possibility, and have a strategy in place with your real estate agent on how to handle multiple offer situations. Consider offering a slightly higher price or other favorable terms to increase your chances of acceptance.

Navigating the competitive buyer’s market in Calgary may require patience, flexibility, and a well-thought-out approach. With the right preparation, realistic expectations, and the guidance of a skilled real estate agent, you can successfully find and secure your ideal home in this vibrant Canadian city. Remember to act swiftly, stay informed, and be prepared for the challenges that come with a competitive market. Happy house hunting!

 

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Your Guide to Home Renovation Costs in Singapore

One of the most expensive possessions that you can acquire in Singapore is a home. Given that it is an investment, people want to make their home as comfortable and presentable as possible. However, doing a home renovation can cost you a lot.

HOW MUCH DOES IT ACTUALLY COST?

In Singapore, the ultimate cost of renovation depends on the several factors. Firstly, the type of home will determine the scope of renovation. This refers to whether you live in a condominium, an HDB flat or a landed property. The next factor is the age and condition of your home. The extent and type of renovation work for a brand new BTO differs from a decade-old resale flat.

Thirdly, the type of materials to be used for the renovation must be considered. It is up to you to choose affordable or high-end materials. The contractor or interior design firm is also up to you. Shop around to find the firm that suits you best. Lastly, your total cost will be influenced by how much work you want done. Starting with a blank canvas can cost more than renovating a single room.

You can expect to pay from S$5,000 to over S$100,000 when you are renovating a 4-Room HDB flat (i.e., approximately 90 sq m). Remember that all the aforementioned factors will influence the renovation costs. In fact, Qanvast stated that the average 4-room HDB BTO flat renovation was estimated to cost about S$43,000 to S$45,000 in 2020. Since renovating a resale flat is more extensive and expensive, the expected cost was from S$45,000 to S$52,000.

WHAT ARE YOUR LOAN OPTIONS?

If you are looking for financial aid, you will apply for a renovation loan. Renovation loans are different from personal loans. With personal loans, you receive the money in cash. The institution does not know what you are going to do with the money, so it is riskier for them to lend it to you. As a result, personal loan interest rates are generally high.

On the other hand, renovation loans work by giving the money directly to your contractor. Because the bank knows exactly what you are going to do with the money, they can charge you lower interest rates. Renovation loan interest rates are usually less than 5% p.a.

Before you can apply for the renovation loan, you need to have the contractor’s invoice or quotation signed by both parties. Renovation loans can let you borrow up to S$30,000 or 6 times your monthly income, whichever amount is lower. You can repay this in monthly installments.

HOW CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RENOVATION COSTS?

Image Credits: pixabay.com

 

#1: Determine what you want.

Not all design styles are created equal – some cost more than others. Experts suggest that the most affordable style is the Scandinavian interiors as it involves simpler aesthetics and fewer built-in carpentry.

Knowing which design style you want, and which rooms you want to renovate will help you determine the total renovation costs.

#2: Paint your walls.

You can save money by painting your walls or an accent wall instead of using wallpaper or building a feature wall.

It is a practical choice if you want to change your home’s look every couple of years. You see, wallpaper or stone are notoriously difficult to remove.

#3: Have less built-in furniture.

Carpentry can take up a substantial chunk of your renovation costs. To reduce your expenses, you can make a list of your top five carpentry must-haves. Your priorities must revolve around custom solutions that require real design work that you cannot easily purchase. For things that you can easily purchase, you can buy as you go along with the renovation.

#4: Compare the available renovation firms.

There are a myriad of renovation, interior design, and contractor firms in Singapore. Different companies tend to provide different price structures. It is best to research all the available options to find the best company that suits both your budget and preferences.

#5: Keep or sell unused items.

When renovating your home, you may find some unused items such as excess paint or wood. It is recommended that you sell these items to make some money. This money can be used to reduce your overall renovation costs.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners in Singapore, Under S$230

From robot vacuums to cordless vacuum cleaners, modern technology redefined how we achieve spotless floors! Cleaning your home became less of a chore with innovations such as these.

Let’s put a spotlight on cordless vacuum cleaners in Singapore. You do not have to worry about pulling a cord throughout the house because these are convenient and portable. It also operates with rechargeable batteries.

Cordless vacuum cleaners come in different shapes and sizes, but some of the best models in Singapore include the ones listed below.

#1: ELECTROLUX ALLERGY ERGORAPIDO BRUSH ROLL CLEAN CORDLESS VACUUM CLEANER

Price: S$225 at Lazada Singapore
(Sale Price: S$204.47)

Electrolux Allergy Ergorapido’s name may be mouthful, but it is efficient. People with dust allergies can find this model beneficial as it comes with a filter that gets about 99.99% of micro dust. It claims that its “HEPA grade five-fold high filtration system effectively blocks secondary pollution”.

Image Credits: lazada.sg

Lastly, its charging time is four hours.

#2: AIRBOT SUPERSONICS PLUS CORDLESS PORTABLE VACUUM CLEANER

Price: S$149.90 at Airbot

Do not be fooled by its inexpensive price as Airbot Supersonics Plus is a portable handheld cordless vacuum cleaner that comes with several modes. It has an OLED display screen for clearer and easier monitoring of battery levels and vacuum modes. As a bonus, it looks aesthetically pleasing in deep red!

Image Credits: airbot.sg

Use its LED light for easier visibility under sofas and beds. In terms of power, Airbot Supersonics Plus is an upgraded 25 kPa model with a charging time of about 4 to 5 hours.

#3: ELUXGO LIGHTWEIGHT CORDLESS VACUUM EC19C

Price: S$68 at Lazada Singapore
(Sale Price: S$64)

Weighing in at only 0.84 kg, the Eluxgo EC19C is lighter than many laptops in today’s market. If you are always on-the-go and intend to use this vacuum cleaner while you travel, this extremely light tool is a lifesaver.

Image Credits: lazada.sg

As a friendly warning, Eluxgo has a weaker suction power and a shorter battery life compared to the other models on this list. It is sufficient for a university student that is looking for a device to clean his or her dormitory room.

4. DIBEA D18 CORDLESS VACUUM CLEANER

Price: S$135 at FairPrice

Dibea D18 is a powerful mid-range model that empowers up to 40 minutes of cleaning with 12,000 pa suction power. It comes with two cleaning modes to suit your needs. You can also access hard-to-reach corners with its wide floor brush and LED lights.

Image Credits: fairprice.com.sg

Take advantage of its 2-in-1 soft brush function that can clean floors as well as office carpets. Lastly, it is supported by HEPA multi-stage filtration system. Simply put, it is practical and flexible!

Sources: 1 & 2

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5 Things To Consider When Buying Or Renting A Flat

Whether you are choosing a flat for rental or purchase, finding a home can be challenging and time consuming. Various expectations including interior preferences, budget, and additional charges, as well as location and safety should be considered by you.

#1: THE HIDDEN CHARGES

Ensure that all the clauses of the documents (i.e., including the penalty clauses) are read and understood. Is the builder required to pay you penalty in case you do not receive the renovated flat within the grace period?

Additional expenses such as stamp duty, home loan processing fee, and safety deposit fee should be kept in mind.

#2: THE LOCATION

Location, location, location! Find a flat that is near to a public transportation station, if transportation is a priority. Consider if your shortlisted flats are close to your place of education or employment.

Flats that are conveniently located near shopping malls and community parks are ideal. Examine how the location of the flat will affect your commute to school or work as well as your commute towards your friends and family.

#3: THE BUDGET

Be honest with yourself and calculate your budget. Utilities are not usually included in the rent or purchase of a flat. Therefore, it is important to calculate the added costs of utilities when determining whether a flat suit your budget.

The gap between renting and owning a flat is massive. Stick with the guidelines of how much you can afford and avoid defaulting for non-payment.

#4: THE SECURITY

Lower floors or stories do not offer as much privacy compared as the higher ones because they easily be accessed. If your building is located near the main road or a busy area, higher floors or stories tend to be more peaceful.

Please examine the security arrangements in the housing complex (e.g., CCTVs) if you are keen on staying on the lower floor or story.

#5: THE INTERIOR

The interior’s cleanliness demonstrates how responsible the property owner is. However, there is more to see beyond its freshly painted walls. You should check the water pressure and find out whether the windows and doors are closing well.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

You should be given an inventory if the property was listed as fully furnished. During the first visit, you may establish whether all the items are part of the contract.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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5 Entirely Free Ways To Maximize Your Small Flat

Flats ranging from 45 to 110 square meters are popular among the Singaporean masses. These spaces may be considered as tiny to some people. But, small is highly subjective (besides my height). Making your space livable comes down on how well you can divide the function of your rooms or how well you can store your things.

On that note, here are 5 Entirely Free Ways To Maximize Your Small Flat:

USE A TRUNK

Avoid spending hundreds of dollars on a bedside or coffee table by using an old trunk. Ask your mother and other relatives if they have a trunk to spare. A trunk not only provides an additional storage space, but it also acts as a neat conversation starter.

It is recommended to place the trunk in the living room or in an accessible area. Put all your DVD collection, magazines, console controllers, and games inside the trunk. This way, you do not have to “flip your home” when the guests arrive.

CREATE VISUAL DISTRACTIONS

Visual distractions give off an illusion of bigger space. Welcome the beaming rays of the sun by keeping the curtains open. Then, you may disrupt the unified order of your furniture by fixing them diagonally. The diagonal order can help to make room for more.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

INCREASE THE USE OF YOUR SPACE

Until you can realistically afford a spacious flat, you must mold your rooms to a variety of purposes. Your clutter-free dining table can double as a home office. While, your living room can transform into a play area for your children. Do not forget to store the toys in a single box after using it.

KEEP EVERYTHING CLEAN

In contrast with massive spaces, you can easily notice the clutter exposed in smaller spaces. Why is this so? For starters, you can discretely put away your unwanted items in various shelves. You cannot do that with limited spaces!

Smaller spaces take less time to clean. That is the upside! Get things in order by allocating at least one hour each week. Make this an automatic cleaning regimen so, you can have the rest of your time to relax.

OPT FOR MONOCHROMATIC

Say your next stage in renovation is choosing the colors of your walls. Consider the underlying mechanics of Color Psychology. Unified color scheme helps to maximize your space as it creates a relatively “open” look. When your walls are divided by several colors, people can easily spot the “start” and “end”. Thus, consistency conceals the limited space. 

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1 & 2

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