Author: theroylegroup@century21.ca
The Royle Group Podcast / Mar 19, 2024
Determining the Highest and Best Use of a Property
The decision to buy and build can seem equal parts exciting and stressful. As always, we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of yet another variation of real estate. This week Danielle and Sarah discuss with Ben the concept of “highest and best use” and how this principle is used to determine how suitable a purchase may be for you, especially if you’re planning to build your home.
- LISTEN HERE
- Hosted by Ben Goheen, Danielle Firth and Sarah Fothergill from The Royle Group at Century 21 Lanthorn & Associates Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage in Belleville, Ontario.
- Have a question, comment, or a topic you’d like to hear us breakdown? Send an email to theroylegroup@century21.ca. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @TheRoyleGroup.
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Buying / Mar 19, 2024
Buying & Selling Real Estate During the Spring
Spring is in the air, and with it comes a surge of activity in the real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or sell your property for a profit, this season is the perfect time to take action.
We understand that real estate transactions are significant investments, both financially and emotionally. That’s why we’re here to help. Our team of real estate experts are ready to share their tips and insights to make your buying or selling journey a success. So whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to sell their beloved home, our expert tips will give you the edge you need in the competitive real estate market.
Pros of Buying
1. Increased Inventory
The increased inventory allows for more options and a greater likelihood of finding their dream home.
2. Ease of Moving
The longer daylight hours and pleasant weather make it easier to move your belongings from one home to another.
3. Weather
The spring market is known for its positive energy and optimism, which can create a more favourable environment for negotiations. The weather also makes it easier to view properties, host or attend open houses, and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in their new space.
Pros of Selling
1. Motivated Buyers
The demand for homes tends to be higher during this season, as many buyers prefer to move in the summer before the new school year begins.
2. Competition
The increased competition among buyers often leads to multiple offers, driving up the selling price and potentially resulting in a quicker sale.
3. Faster Closing Dates & Higher Prices
When multiple offers are at play, buyers have less negotiating power. If sellers are less likely to negotiate, then you’re going to have less time to make decisions. And if more offers are being submitted, it will likely drive up the purchase price of the home.
4. Ease of Moving
The longer daylight hours and pleasant weather make it easier to move your belongings from one home to another.
5. Weather
The spring market is known for its positive energy and optimism, which can create a more favourable environment for negotiations. The weather also makes it easier to view properties, host or attend open houses, and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in their new space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overextending Your Budget
The excitement of the spring market can lead buyers to stretch their budget and make impulsive decisions. Avoid overextending yourself financially by sticking to your pre-determined budget and factoring in additional costs such as closing fees, inspections, and potential repairs.
2. Skipping Home Inspections
In a competitive market, buyers may be tempted to skip or rush through the home inspection process to secure a property. However, this can lead to costly surprises down the line. Always prioritize a thorough home inspection to identify any potential issues and negotiate repairs or price adjustments, if necessary.
3. Neglecting to Negotiate
Both buyers and sellers should remember that negotiation is a normal part of the real estate process. Don’t be afraid to negotiate terms, contingencies, or the selling price. Work closely with your real estate agent to develop a negotiation strategy that aligns with your goals.
4. Failing to Prepare Your Home for Sale
Sellers often underestimate the importance of preparing their home for sale. Failing to declutter, stage, and make necessary repairs can significantly impact the perceived value of your property. Take the time to prepare your home properly to maximize its appeal to potential buyers.
5. Relying Solely On Online Research
While online research is a valuable starting point, it should not replace the expertise of a real estate professional. Real estate agents have access to up-to-date market data, local insights, and negotiation skills that can significantly benefit buyers and sellers. Don’t underestimate the value of working with a knowledgeable agent throughout the process.
In Conclusion
Buying or selling a home in the spring offers both advantages and challenges. Deciding whether it’s the right time for you depends on your specific situation, local market conditions, and personal preferences. The Royle Group is here to guide you through the process, no matter the season. We provide personalized real estate services tailored to your unique needs. If you’re contemplating a real estate transaction this season, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons and make a well-informed decision.
Thinking of buying? Prepare YOUR Finances
Want more home buying guidance? Download our FREE Buyers Workbook
Thinking of selling? Get a FREE Home Valuation
Want more home selling guidance? Download our FREE Listing Guide
Want to speak with an agent? Book a Personalized Consultation
Need some spring cleaning guidance? Read our checklist HERE.
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Home Owners / Mar 14, 2024
10 Essential Tasks for a Successful Spring Clean
Spring is finally here, and so is the urge for a fresh start. It’s time to open the windows, let in the sunshine, and tackle that ever-growing to-do list known as spring cleaning. But where do you start? Don’t worry, The Royle Group Team has got you covered. We’ve gathered the top 10 essential tasks to ensure a successful spring cleaning experience.
1. Kitchen
Start with the heart of your home – the kitchen. Clear out your pantry and refrigerator, discarding expired items and organizing the rest. Wipe down the shelves and drawers, paying special attention to spills and stains. Deep clean your oven, stovetop, and microwave using appropriate cleaners and scrub brushes.
2. Living Room
The living room is a high-traffic area that often requires a thorough cleaning. Dust and wipe down furniture, including sofas, chairs, and coffee tables. Clean your electronics, such as televisions and sound systems, to remove dust and fingerprints. Don’t forget to vacuum or steam clean your carpets, and wash or dry-clean any curtains or window treatments.
3. Bathrooms
Next, move on to the bathrooms. Clean the toilet, shower, and bathtub, removing any soap residue or stains. Scrub the sink and countertops, and polish the faucets for a sparkling finish. Don’t forget to clean the mirrors and replace any old or worn-out shower curtains or bath mats.
4. Bedrooms
In the bedrooms, start by decluttering and organizing your closets. Donate or discard any clothes or accessories you no longer need or use. Dust and wipe down surfaces, including dressers, nightstands, and headboards. Vacuum or deep clean your mattresses to remove dust mites and allergens.
5. Windows
Make your windows shine by giving them a thorough cleaning. Start by dusting the window frames and sills, then clean the glass using a glass cleaner and a squeegee for streak-free results. Don’t forget to clean window screens and replace any torn or damaged ones.
6. Carpets
Deep clean your carpets to remove dirt, stains, and odours that may have accumulated over time. Consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service for a thorough and effective clean. Alternatively, you can use DIY carpet cleaning methods, such as steam cleaning or using carpet cleaning solutions.
7. Upholstery
Refresh your upholstery by deep cleaning sofas, chairs, and cushions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate cleaning method for your specific upholstery material. You can use a steam cleaner, upholstery cleaner, or even simple DIY solutions such as baking soda and vinegar.
8. Appliances
Take the time to clean and maintain your appliances for optimal performance and longevity. Clean your refrigerator, removing any expired food and wiping down shelves and drawers. Defrost and clean your freezer, and vacuum the coils at the back of your fridge to improve energy efficiency. Clean your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer to remove any buildup or residue.
9. Neglected Areas
Remember that spring cleaning is also a great opportunity to tackle those often neglected areas, such as light fixtures, baseboards, your garage or shed areas, and behind furniture or appliances.
1o. Outdoor Spaces
Spring cleaning isn’t just limited to the interior of your home – it’s also a great time to spruce up your outdoor spaces. Clean your patio furniture, removing any dirt or debris. Sweep or power wash your deck or patio, and freshen up your garden by pruning plants and flowers. Don’t forget to clean your grill and prepare it for the upcoming barbecue season.
Maintaining a Clean and Organized Home
To maintain a clean and organized home throughout the year, here are some final tips to keep in mind.
1. Regular Cleaning Routine
Establish a regular cleaning routine to prevent dirt and clutter from accumulating. Set aside time each week for quick touch-ups and maintenance tasks. This will help you stay on top of your cleaning chores and prevent them from becoming overwhelming.
2. Daily Cleaning Habits
Incorporate daily cleaning habits into your routine to maintain a tidy home effortlessly. Simple tasks such as making your bed, wiping down surfaces, and doing a quick sweep or vacuum will go a long way in keeping your home clean and organized.
3. Monthly Deep Cleaning
In addition to your regular cleaning routine, schedule monthly deep cleaning sessions to tackle areas or tasks that require extra attention. This can include tasks such as cleaning ceiling fans, washing windows, or deep cleaning appliances.
4. Stay Organized
Maintain the organization you achieved during your spring cleaning by regularly decluttering and reevaluating your belongings. Take a few minutes each week to declutter one area or drawer, and donate or discard items you no longer need or use.
5. Involve the Whole Family
Cleaning and organizing shouldn’t be a solo effort. Involve your family members or roommates in the process and create a shared responsibility for maintaining a clean and organized home. Assign age-appropriate tasks to children, teaching them the importance of cleanliness and responsibility.
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The Royle Group Podcast / Mar 13, 2024
Multi-Family Investing – Is The Hype Worth It?
Is The Hype Really Worth It? Danielle, Jeremy and Sarah sat down this week to discuss the excitement that seems to draw people into real estate investing and the secret to making worthwhile investments. Jeremy shares about one of his recent projects and how his well-calculated strategy is now paying off. If you’ve ever toyed with the idea of multi-family investing, this episode is for you.
- LISTEN HERE
- Hosted by Jeremy Tremblay, Danielle Firth and Sarah Fothergill from The Royle Group at Century 21 Lanthorn & Associates Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage in Belleville, Ontario.
- Have a question, comment, or a topic you’d like to hear us breakdown? Send an email to theroylegroup@century21.ca. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @TheRoyleGroup.
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The Royle Group Podcast / Mar 5, 2024
It’s Coyote Mating Season
Find out what’s lurking in the Belleville and Quinte West region RIGHT NOW. As always, we are here to prepare you, not to scare you. This week we discuss the transitional market we find ourselves in, how to balance the emotions of moving and what to be mindful of right in your own backyard.
- LISTEN HERE
- Hosted by Danielle Firth and Sarah Fothergill from The Royle Group at Century 21 Lanthorn & Associates Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage in Belleville, Ontario.
- Have a question, comment, or a topic you’d like to hear us breakdown? Send an email to theroylegroup@century21.ca. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @TheRoyleGroup.
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The Royle Group Podcast / Feb 27, 2024
Will Millennials Ever Be Home Owners?
1 in 4 millennials don’t think it’s even possible based on the average cost of living, rising interest rates and unpredictable home prices. This week on Royle Subjects, Danielle and Sarah discuss how “boomerang kids” are affecting todays real estate market and how multigenerational living might be an unexpected solution to the millennial home buyer crisis.
- LISTEN HERE
- Hosted by Danielle Firth and Sarah Fothergill from The Royle Group at Century 21 Lanthorn & Associates Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage in Belleville, Ontario.
- Have a question, comment, or a topic you’d like to hear us breakdown? Send an email to theroylegroup@century21.ca. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @TheRoyleGroup.
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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.