Here we are approaching Christmas Day.  I know it happens at the same time every year but I still find myself surprised at how quickly December seems to go by.  One of my favourite things about being a Realtor is meeting new people and learning about their special family traditions.  I have seen traditional celebrations, creative traditions, and some so unique that I cannot help but smile w ...

Renovating your house can be a great way to get more enjoyment out of your home and increase the resale value.  Not all renovations will make your home worth more so if you are renovating for that purpose, you need to choose your projects wisely.  Check out my best advice on which renovations will increase the value of your home.  Kitchen You had to know that kitchens would be at the top ...

Ever fallen head over heels in love with something that you know is not good for you?  I think we all have.  While I cannot help you if you have fallen in love with the wrong person, I can definitely help you if you have fallen in love with the wrong house.  Here are 5 valid reasons you need to walk away from a house, even if you think it is your dream home.  1.  It is too expensive. Th ...

Residential real estate is like the weather:  everyone loves to talk about it and everyone has a different perspective.  While it can be helpful to talk with family and friends about their own real estate experiences, you should also consult trusted experts when thinking of buying or selling a home.  I have put together a list of resources for you. Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation ...

One of the great things about living in Calgary is that there are so many fun things to do!  Calgary offers residents and visitors alike plenty of activities to celebrate the holiday season.  Check out this list of FREE things that you can do in and around Calgary this December! Lions Festival of Lights at Confederation Park Christmas at Spruce Meadows Outdoor Ice Skating CP Holiday Tra ...

Weak sales activity relative to inventory places downward pressure on prices   Click here to view the full monthly stats package. Persistently high inventory levels within Calgary’s residential resale housing market, combined with weak sales activity, contributed to buyers' conditions in November. Monthly sales totaled 1,263 units, a 28 per cent decline from last year and nearly 20 per c ...

Your Realtor just called and they have clients interested in touring your home.  And. . . they will be here any minute!  Instead of saying “No” to a potential Buyer, use these tips to get your house ready in 10 minutes or less.  Full disclosure:  these tips will work best if you maintain a general level of cleanliness around the house so be sure to keep on top of things like regular tidyin ...

Have you ever wondered exactly what Calgary City Council does?  Read on to learn more about this group of people and how they help to shape and serve one of the best cities in Canada. Calgary City Council is made up of our Mayor, Naheed Nenshi, and 14 City Councillors.  Each Councillor represents a specific ward, comprised of several communities.  Our City Council is elected, which means C ...

Winter makes me think of warm sweaters, hot chocolate, snowball fights, and. . . . really high home heating costs.  I tracked down some simple and effective home heating tips that will keep your toes warm and your wallet full.1.  Apply window insulation film.  You can purchase kits from any hardware store and it only takes minutes to apply the film to your windows.  They will be noticeable ...

Historically, Black Friday has marked the beginning of the holiday shopping season in the United States.  It coincides with American Thanksgiving and is notorious for door crasher deals and incredible bargains.  Over the last few years, Black Friday has gained popularity amoung Canadian retailers and shoppers.  We do not see the steep discounts that our southern neighbours do, but there are ...