To view and search all MLS listed homes in Edmonton visit us at:
www.FindMyHouse.ca
REALTORS® have been kept busy with strong sales of homes through the Multiple Listing Service® in the past three months. September residential sales were up 65.9% from the same month in 2007 and built on year-over-year sales increases in July and August.
“Edmonton may be the only housing market in western Canada that has increased sales in the third quarter,” said Marc Perras, president of the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton. “After peaking at record sales numbers in early 2007 the market slowed through the first half of this year. But sales have certainly picked up to the normal range and surpassed same month sales from last year.”
There were 1,140 sales of single family residences in September with an average price* of $362,097 down 1.9% from last month. Condominium sales were up from the previous month by 11.7% with an average price of $252,234 on 477 sales during September. Duplex and rowhouses sold on average for $315,690, which was up 0.1% from August with sales of 79 units. The average residential sales price (including all types of residential property) was down 1.3% from last month to $324,906.
“The sales increases may have been helped by slightly softer prices for all types of homes,” said Perras. “But a bigger factor is the continuing strength of the local economy including low unemployment, low vacancy rates and economic growth at four times the national average.” He also noted that the average price for single family homes may be lower because of the increased number of entry level priced homes being sold as compared to pricier move-up or estate sales.
“Home buyers have come to the realization that a sudden market collapse in Edmonton is unlikely and that now is actually a good time to buy a home while inventory still remains high and interest rates are low,” he said.
There were 8,808 homes in the MLS® inventory at the end of September (down 804 units) based on 3,140 listings and 1,729 sales during the month. The sales-to-listing ratio was 55% (51% in August) and days on market was down by two days to 61 days in September. Total residential sales for the month were worth $562 million contributing to a total of $5.63 billion in total MLS® sales this year.
Source: Realtors Association of Edmonton
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
FALL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
To view and search all Edmonton and area MLS listings visit us at:
www.FindMyHouse.ca
It is that time of year again when thoughts of that oncoming winter pops to mind. And this is the time that you should be getting your home ready for the winter months. Heree is a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before it is too late:
www.FindMyHouse.ca
It is that time of year again when thoughts of that oncoming winter pops to mind. And this is the time that you should be getting your home ready for the winter months. Heree is a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before it is too late:
GROUNDS:
Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for debris or blockage.
Repair any driveway cracks and/or heaved or settled walkways.
Trim all trees and shrubs that are too close to the house.
Check (ideally during a rainstorm) for rainwater drainage away foundation.
Clean and put summer furnishings away.
Drain and store garden hoses.
EXTERIOR SURFACES
Check weathertightness of all exterior surfaces and components.
Check for deterioration of painted or finished areas. If too late for a full paint job, prime and touch-up bare wood surfaces.
Caulk and seal all joints in siding, around windows and doors.
Check and seal any foundation cracks.
Improve weatherstripping at exterior doors and windows as needed.
Reset storms and screens where required.
Look for any signs of insect or pest activity around the foundation and at wood components close to the ground.
ROOF (Use binoculars or hire a professional.)
Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
Check eave areas for signs of moisture build-up or damage.
Check the condition of chimneys.
Check flashings for signs of lifting or damage and repair as needed.
Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
ATTIC
Check ventilation openings for nests or other blockage.
Check the position and condition of insulation for uniform coverage.
Look for any signs of excessive moisture or heat buildup.
INTERIOR ROOMS
Check all areas for signs of roof or plumbing leakage.
Have any fireplaces or wood stoves and flues checked and professionally cleaned.
Reset automatic timers for the change in daylight hours.
Check all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if over a year old.
Test Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI’s) using built-in test buttons.
HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS
Clean all elements of the cooling system.
Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners.
Follow manufacturer instructions for the maintenance of your heating system.
Change or clean heating system filters on warm air systems (now and regularly).
Check heating and cooling systems for any evidence of water leaks.
If present, clean and test the humidifier.
Have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified heating serviceperson before the heating season to keep it functioning efficiently and properly.
PLUMBING
Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas).
Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.
Check the condition and temperature setting of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the temperature setting.
Check the plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks or blocked drains.
Confirm proper operation of any sump pumps and free flow of the drain line.
Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue.
Monday, October 6, 2008
RE/MAX Global Balloon Day Marks 30 Years of Flight
To View and Search all MLS Listed Homes in Edmonton Visit Us At:
www.FindMyHouse.ca
RE/MAX of Western Canada Joins Worldwide Celebration of Anniversary
(Kelowna, BC Oct. 6, 2008) – RE/MAX of Western Canada will join RE/MAX offices around the globe in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the renowned RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon. Eight RE/MAX hot air balloons are scheduled to fly in Edmonton, Calgary, the Fraser Valley (of Vancouver), Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina and Grande Prairie to commemorate the first flight of a RE/MAX balloon, in 1978.
“It’s an excellent opportunity to celebrate our company’s heritage,” said Elton Ash, Regional Executive Vice President, RE/MAX of Western Canada. “The RE/MAX brand, including the balloon, is a big part of what’s made our brand so successful – it’s a symbol of our commitment to rise above the crowd and provide the most professional real estate services to real estate customers and clients in Western Canada.”
These flights will be held in conjunction with RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon flights at locations around the world. RE/MAX balloons will fly in a kaleidoscope of more than 700 colourful hot air balloons in the “Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension” during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, October 4-12, 2008. In Oregon, RE/MAX pilot Darren Kling, will attempt a crossing of the Cascade Mountains, taking off in the Willamette Valley, passing by Mt. Jefferson and landing near Bend.
The RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon Fleet is one of the largest in the world, with over 100 balloons located on six continents. The distinctive red, white and blue balloon, which represents the international real estate network, has become one of the most recognized corporate images in the world.
Because of the strong brand awareness it creates, the RE/MAX balloon has helped take the international franchisor to the top of several national and international brand rankings including Advertising Age’s Top 200 US Megabrands and Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 Survey. In these two surveys, RE/MAX was the highest ranked real estate franchisor. In the Entrepreneur Franchise 500, RE/MAX has been the highest ranked real estate franchisor for eight of the last ten years.
Information about the RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon program can be found at www.remax.com.
www.FindMyHouse.ca
RE/MAX of Western Canada Joins Worldwide Celebration of Anniversary
(Kelowna, BC Oct. 6, 2008) – RE/MAX of Western Canada will join RE/MAX offices around the globe in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the renowned RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon. Eight RE/MAX hot air balloons are scheduled to fly in Edmonton, Calgary, the Fraser Valley (of Vancouver), Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina and Grande Prairie to commemorate the first flight of a RE/MAX balloon, in 1978.
“It’s an excellent opportunity to celebrate our company’s heritage,” said Elton Ash, Regional Executive Vice President, RE/MAX of Western Canada. “The RE/MAX brand, including the balloon, is a big part of what’s made our brand so successful – it’s a symbol of our commitment to rise above the crowd and provide the most professional real estate services to real estate customers and clients in Western Canada.”
These flights will be held in conjunction with RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon flights at locations around the world. RE/MAX balloons will fly in a kaleidoscope of more than 700 colourful hot air balloons in the “Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension” during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, October 4-12, 2008. In Oregon, RE/MAX pilot Darren Kling, will attempt a crossing of the Cascade Mountains, taking off in the Willamette Valley, passing by Mt. Jefferson and landing near Bend.
The RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon Fleet is one of the largest in the world, with over 100 balloons located on six continents. The distinctive red, white and blue balloon, which represents the international real estate network, has become one of the most recognized corporate images in the world.
Because of the strong brand awareness it creates, the RE/MAX balloon has helped take the international franchisor to the top of several national and international brand rankings including Advertising Age’s Top 200 US Megabrands and Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 Survey. In these two surveys, RE/MAX was the highest ranked real estate franchisor. In the Entrepreneur Franchise 500, RE/MAX has been the highest ranked real estate franchisor for eight of the last ten years.
Information about the RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon program can be found at www.remax.com.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Stay Cool - DUCTLESS AIR CONDITIONING
To view and search all MLS listed homes for sale visit me at: www.FindMyHouse.ca
Ductless air conditioners and heat pumps are gaining in popularity as a means of providing cooling for a house. These systems function much the same as any other air conditioning or heat pump, except that they do not require ductwork to distribute air throughout the house. They are particularly practical for existing homes where there is no ductwork already installed for heating or cooling purposes.
This feature can produce substantial energy savings over a ducted air distribution system as there is no opportunity for the loss of conditioned air from the ductwork running through attics, basements or crawls spaces. Duct losses can account for more than 25% of energy consumption. Ductless systems consist of an outside unit containing the usual air conditioner and heat pump components and a relatively small indoor fan-coil unit that can be located on any nearby wall. The usual heat pump (or air conditioner) refrigerant tubing connects the two elements. These systems are ideal for smaller houses, remote rooms in large houses or for houses that have an open floor plan. This gives you the ability to “zone” or control heating and cooling to different parts of your home by using additional indoor air handling units.
The two primary components of a ductless system are: an outdoor condensing unit, and one or more indoor air handling units. The use of multiple air handlers connected to a single condenser gives the system its alternate name — mini-split. A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units. A filter is located at each air handler.
The main advantages of mini-split systems include:
Compact size
Flexible positioning
Ease of installation
Remote controls
Zone cooling
No energy loss on distribution
The compact size and low profile of the indoor air handlers offers flexibility of placement. With its non-obtrusive casing only extending out about 6-8 inches from the wall or ceiling surface there are numerous placement options in most rooms. They can be suspended from a ceiling, mounted flush into a drop ceiling, or hung on a wall. While ceiling or high wall placement is preferred, floor-mount units are also available.
Remote control features make it easier to control the system, especially when air handlers are positioned high on walls or suspended from ceilings. A remote can be used for selection of all system functions such as the temperature setpoint, switch to fan-only operation, redirecting the vanes on louvers, setting on/off timers, and adjusting energy-saver settings. Most units have automatic louver mechanisms that oscillate the air vanes for balanced airflow.
Most systems allow up to three air handling units (containing the evaporator coil) to be connected to a single outdoor condensing unit, depending on how much heating or cooling is required for each zone. Duct vibration noises and duct dirt/mold accumulations are also eliminated with a ductless system. Heat pump models are also available.
The primary disadvantage of ductless systems is their cost. Such systems cost about 30% more than conventional central systems, exclusive of ductwork, and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity. The appearance of the indoor unit is an issue for some people. Most air handlers have sleek modern designs, but they still are a component that would not typically be seen in the living area of a house with a conventional central system. However, they do not take up the window space that a window-mounted unit requires.
Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue
Ductless air conditioners and heat pumps are gaining in popularity as a means of providing cooling for a house. These systems function much the same as any other air conditioning or heat pump, except that they do not require ductwork to distribute air throughout the house. They are particularly practical for existing homes where there is no ductwork already installed for heating or cooling purposes.
This feature can produce substantial energy savings over a ducted air distribution system as there is no opportunity for the loss of conditioned air from the ductwork running through attics, basements or crawls spaces. Duct losses can account for more than 25% of energy consumption. Ductless systems consist of an outside unit containing the usual air conditioner and heat pump components and a relatively small indoor fan-coil unit that can be located on any nearby wall. The usual heat pump (or air conditioner) refrigerant tubing connects the two elements. These systems are ideal for smaller houses, remote rooms in large houses or for houses that have an open floor plan. This gives you the ability to “zone” or control heating and cooling to different parts of your home by using additional indoor air handling units.
The two primary components of a ductless system are: an outdoor condensing unit, and one or more indoor air handling units. The use of multiple air handlers connected to a single condenser gives the system its alternate name — mini-split. A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units. A filter is located at each air handler.
The main advantages of mini-split systems include:
Compact size
Flexible positioning
Ease of installation
Remote controls
Zone cooling
No energy loss on distribution
The compact size and low profile of the indoor air handlers offers flexibility of placement. With its non-obtrusive casing only extending out about 6-8 inches from the wall or ceiling surface there are numerous placement options in most rooms. They can be suspended from a ceiling, mounted flush into a drop ceiling, or hung on a wall. While ceiling or high wall placement is preferred, floor-mount units are also available.
Remote control features make it easier to control the system, especially when air handlers are positioned high on walls or suspended from ceilings. A remote can be used for selection of all system functions such as the temperature setpoint, switch to fan-only operation, redirecting the vanes on louvers, setting on/off timers, and adjusting energy-saver settings. Most units have automatic louver mechanisms that oscillate the air vanes for balanced airflow.
Most systems allow up to three air handling units (containing the evaporator coil) to be connected to a single outdoor condensing unit, depending on how much heating or cooling is required for each zone. Duct vibration noises and duct dirt/mold accumulations are also eliminated with a ductless system. Heat pump models are also available.
The primary disadvantage of ductless systems is their cost. Such systems cost about 30% more than conventional central systems, exclusive of ductwork, and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity. The appearance of the indoor unit is an issue for some people. Most air handlers have sleek modern designs, but they still are a component that would not typically be seen in the living area of a house with a conventional central system. However, they do not take up the window space that a window-mounted unit requires.
Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue
Friday, June 6, 2008
Edmonton Real Estate Statistic Ending June 06, 2008
To view and search all homes listed for sale on MLS in the Edmonton area visit me at: www.FindMyHouse.ca
To view the video of this week's real estate update click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7UgnvDlzy8
To price your own home online for free visit us at: www.TeamLeadingEdge.ca
To view the video of this week's real estate update click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7UgnvDlzy8
To price your own home online for free visit us at: www.TeamLeadingEdge.ca
Friday, May 30, 2008
Edmonton Real Estate Statistic Ending May 30, 2008
To view and search all homes listed for sale on MLS in the Edmonton area visit me at: www.FindMyHouse.ca
To view the video of this week's real estate update click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk_X2HM6ySs
To view the video of this week's real estate update click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk_X2HM6ySs
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Video of 1620 Hector Rd.
To view and search all MLS listed homes for sale in the Edmonton area visit us at: http://www.findmyhouse.ca/
Former Showhome
1620 Hector Rd.
List Price:$816,900
View the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJtW2ipxQj4
APPRAISED FOR $940,000 IN 2007. Located in the Prestigious community of College Woods this Exquisite Bungalow has 1730 sq. ft of relaxing living space with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths. Featuring a large kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters, formal dining room with gorgeous chandelier, master bedroom with a huge walk-in closet and 5 piece ensuite, basement is partly finished with a large family room that features a sided fireplace and 2 bedrooms. ( approx. 700 sq. ft of undeveloped basement). This home also includes large windows, remote controlled Venetian blinds, remote controlled exterior shutters, central air conditioning and a security system. And don't forget the Fantastic valley view. All landscaping was professionally done giving the backyard a peaceful oasis feeling with a pond and waterfall. All measurements and information to be verified by purchaser.
To find the value of your home online for free visit us at: http://www.teamleadingedge.ca/
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