Jackie & John MacDonald Real Estate Update

A Place for Everything!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 22:04:00 GMT

Have you just moved into a new place and are looking for room for all of your belongings? Are you having trouble accommodating all the things you've accumulated in your home throughout the years? Or are you planning to sell and need to show off your square footage to potential buyers? Whatever your reasons for wanting more storage space are, there are plenty of ways to get it. Here are just a few:

Pare Down. First things first, edit your stuff. The easiest and most inexpensive way to get the added storage space you need is to get rid of everything you don't. So gather together all those items you don't want or use – the rule of thumb is that if you haven't used it in the last year, it goes – sell or donate it. If you've recently moved, you've probably already done this. If you're soon-to-be selling, paring down your belongings will not only vacate more storage space to impress buyers, it'll make your move easier as you'll have fewer things to pack up and transport to your new home.

Double Duty. Multifunctional furniture is an ingenious solution to the problem of where to put your stuff, because it gives you added storage space without taking up any more room in your home. Examples of multifunctional furniture include: ottomans and coffee tables with lids that lift up to reveal storage space; chairs and sofas with seat cushions that hide space ideal for stowing away knitting equipment or spare blankets; and beds that have shelves built into the headboard or that feature under-bed drawers, perfect for storing clothing and accessories.

Overhead, Overlooked. Take a quick survey of your rooms. Chances are there's little to no functional use of the space above the approximate five-foot mark. So take advantage of that wasted overhead space for items you don't use very often. For instance, if you're redoing your kitchen, as many people do after moving into or before selling their home, opt for 36- or 42-inch cabinets instead of the standard 30-inch ones. Consider installing floating shelves above and on either side of windows, or even suspending them from ceilings. In kids' rooms, ceiling-suspended nets are a great place to store soft toys when they're not in use.

Go Deeper. Did you know there's valuable storage space hiding in your walls that you may be able to take advantage of? It's right there behind your drywall and between your studs. If you're able to find remote sections of your walls, you can create (with the help of a professional, of course!) stylish, functional built-ins in any room of your home, whether they be open shelves meant for displaying items or whether you finish them off with doors for out-of-sight storage space. Very appealing to buyers, built-ins can lend your home a customized look and add to its value – after all, buyers crave extra storage space just as much as you do!

for more articles, listings, and news check out www.jackiejohnrealestate.com!

More listings, fewer sales keeping lid on home prices in Fraser Valley

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:42:00 GMT

SURREY, BC – Property sales on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in

September were the third lowest for that month in the last decade, while new listings for September

ranked the second highest.

Sukh Sidhu is FVREB’s president. “This is the third month in a row based on the 10‐year average where

we’ve seen lower sales combined with a higher influx of new listings.”

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,165 sales in September, an increase of 12 per cent

compared to the 1,044 sales during the same month last year and a decrease of 13 per cent compared

to 1,341 sales in August.

The board posted 2,651 new properties on its MLS® in September, an increase of 10 per cent compared

to September of last year and on par with the listings it received in August. The number of active listings

in the Fraser Valley remained at 10,096 in September, at an annual high for the last three months.

Sidhu adds, “This trend is stabilizing home prices in the Fraser Valley resulting in the price of a typical

detached home in September being only slightly higher than it was in May.

“Although average prices year‐over‐year are still showing strong increases or decreases for some

communities, make sure to ask your local REALTOR® for the benchmark price as well. It’s the predicted

sale price of a typical home in your neighbourhood and unlike the average price, isn’t sensitive to sales

of high‐end or low‐end homes. It’s one of our most reliable pricing tools.”

The benchmark price of a single family detached home in the Fraser Valley in September was $530,321,

an increase of 4.5 per cent compared to $507,429 in September 2010 and 0.3 per cent higher than the

price in August.

For townhouses, the benchmark price in September was $327,546, an increase of 1.8 per cent compared

to the same month last year and unchanged with the price in August. The benchmark price of

apartments in September was $243,420, an increase of 1.6 per cent compared to September 2010 and

down 0.9 per cent compared to August.

For the full statistics package, click this link

~ copyright the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, reprinted with permission

For more articles, listings and info, check out www.jackiejohnrealestate.com

Show Ready - Quick Staging Tips for Showings

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:44:00 GMT

How you live in your home when it's on the market is different from how you normally live in it. If you're serious about selling, you need to be prepared for buyers' eyes at all times. Consider following these tips to keep your home in show-ready condition.

Don't smoke indoors or cook food with strong odors. Take out the trash every morning. Keep your home smelling good with essential oil diffusers or light-bulb rings.

Make some rooms "off limits" for your own family until your home sells. If you can avoid using your dining room, formal living room, guest room or spare bathrooms, for example, you'll have less cleaning to do.

Consider hiring a cleaning service before listing your home, perhaps on an ongoing basis until it sells. All you'll have to do is light maintenance after they leave or between professional cleanings.

Keep a storage container, basket or bag handy. When you get last-minute calls for showings, throw everything that's not in its designated place into your "clutter catch-all," and then stow it out of sight.

Stash disposable cleaning wipes under your kitchen and bathroom sinks so you can quickly wipe down all the surfaces in those rooms when you're done in them with just one product.

Keep small containers in bathrooms to house toiletries when not in use and hide them in the vanity. Have two sets of towels: one for displaying, another for daily use (kept hidden).

Showings aren't likely to happen early in the morning or after about 8 p.m., so take advantage of these times to take care of chores like dishes, dusting, vacuuming and tidying.

for more articles, info, listings & more visit http://www.jackiejohnrealestate.com! Please feel free to leave comments for content you would like to see!

Weathering the Storm - Protect Your House!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 22:07:00 GMT

From high winds to heavy rains, this country is no stranger to extreme weather. What can you do to help protect your house from storm damage?

Get your roof regularly inspected and make sure there are no missing or damaged shingles (when replacing shingles, consider wind- and impact-resistant ones). Have your roof and attic checked for leaks that could provide entry points for water, especially around anything that passes through your house's exterior, like chimneys and plumbing vents

Lessen the possibility of water damage by ensuring your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, free of leaks (usually found where gutter sections meet), and securely fastened to your house. Install splash blocks or downspout extensions to divert water away from your house's foundation lest it collect there and seep into your basement.

Install storm shutters. Not just an attractive decorative feature, storm shutters protect windows from airborne objects and can help reduce damage resulting from pressure changes caused by broken doors or windows. You may also want to consider installing impact-resistant windows.

Keep on top of landscape maintenance. Remove any weak or dead trees and limbs of trees to reduce the chances of them falling on your home or becoming projectiles. Keep branches trimmed so they're not near power lines, windows, or your roof where they might damage your shingles.

Review your insurance policy to make sure you have adequate coverage. Many insurance providers offer discounts to homeowners who take proactive steps to safeguard their properties, so inquire as to what preventative steps might qualify you for lower insurance rates.

The Grass is Greener! Eco-Friendly Lawn Care

Jackie & John MacDonald — Tue, 10 May 2011 04:25:00 GMT

You can have a green lawn in more ways than one. Follow these simple eco-friendly lawn care tips for a yard that not only looks great, but also is easier on the environment and your health.

MOW AT THREE INCHES FOR HEALTHIER GRASS, AND A HEALTHIER WATER BILL! Shorter grass has shallower roots, making it weaker and susceptible to disease and drought. Taller grass encourages deeper root growth and provides more shade for roots and soil, reducing moisture evaporation so your grass needs less watering.
AFTER MOWING, LEAVE THE GRASS CLIPPINGS ON YOUR LAWN. Clippings consist mostly of water, as well as nitrogen, so they'll help you conserve water by helping your lawn retain moisture. And they'll return nutrients to your lawn, fertilizing it as they break down over a day or two.
WATER WISELY. Do it early in the morning, and infrequently but thoroughly — an inch a week should do it. Don't waste water on areas that don't need it, like the driveway or street. Use a rain gauge or tin to time how long it takes your sprinklers to disperse one inch of water.
COMPOST. Buy it wherever green gardening supplies are sold. Or, better yet, make your own — it's a great way to put yard waste like leaves and hedge trimmings to use, while cutting down on the kitchen waste you'd otherwise have to deposit at the curb each week. Easy and cheap, organic compost makes a nutrient-packed fertilizer that will actually improve your soil.
KILL WEEDS NATURALLY. Synthetic herbicides are loaded with toxic chemicals. Check the Internet for alternate weed-killing recipes, made from common household products: salt, vinegar, bleach — even boiling water!

Showing Your Home in the Winter

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 04:19:00 GMT

Canadian weather can be nasty and unpredictable at this time of year, adding one more thing to worry about when potential buyers come to view your home. With a little planning, however, you can keep the path clear for offers, even in bad weather.

The first thing to ensure is that people can actually make their way into your house. That means good lighting, and continually shoveling and salting to keep your driveway and pathways clear of snow and ice. Liability is always a concern, so be extra vigilant with your clearing efforts at this time of year. Once inside, make sure there's a rubber mat by the front door, and a container to hold umbrellas in case of wet weather.

Warmth and light inside a home are especially welcome on cold, dark winter days, so temporarily cast aside your energy-savings ways by ensuring that every light in the house is on during viewings. And before potential buyers come over, consider adjusting the thermostat to a couple of degrees higher than you may normally have it, and then turn it back down just before they come in. This will ensure the furnace doesn't come on while people are viewing the house — some HVAC systems are loud and klunky, a distraction buyers don't need to be exposed to.

Remember that your REALTOR® is a great source of information and tips, which will help to ensure a smooth real estate experience, no matter what the season. While spring is traditionally the busiest time for real estate, putting a home on the market now often results in more interest from buyers due to the lower number of available properties.

For more articles, blogs, listings and tips, please visit www.jackiejohnrealestate.com.

BC Housing Market Recovers from Summer Doldrums

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in the province climbed 20 per cent in November from October 2010, on a seasonally adjusted basis. Compared to November of last year, MLS® residential unit sales were down 21 per cent to 5,647 units. The average MLS® residential price rose 9 per cent to $523,394 in November compared to the same month last year.

"Improved economic conditions and low mortgage interest rates have contributed to a 46 per cent increase in home sales since July," said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. Employment in BC eclipsed the July 2008 record by 2,600 jobs last month, while the unemployment rate dipped to 6.9 per cent, the lowest recorded since January 2009.

"The inventory of homes for sale has trended lower since last spring, improving market conditions in many areas of the province," added Muir. Vancouver and Victoria climbed back into balanced market conditions in last month.

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume declined 4 per cent $35.5 billion, compared to the same period last year. Residential unit sales declined 11 per cent to 70,382 year-to-date, while the average MLS® residential price climbed 9 per cent to $504,042 over the same period.

For the complete statistics report, click here.

copyright British Columbia Real Estate Association, reprinted with permission.

For more articles and news, visit www.jackiemacdonald.com!

Building a Better Bathroom

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:34:00 GMT

Did you know that giving your bathroom a makeover is one of the most effective ways to boost your home's appeal to buyers? Whether you want to update it because you plan on selling or simply because you're tired of its current look, here's how to make your bathroom more fabulous and functional at little cost.

First things first: a new coat of paint. Bathrooms are small spaces broken up by large objects like tubs, toilets and vanities, so for continuity's sake, some people like to paint the walls and ceiling the same color. Consider your choice carefully: there's no reason why you can't go bold, but keep in mind that lighter shades — neutrals, light blues and greens, pastels — will help brighten the room and make it look bigger. If you're putting your home on the market, neutral is the safest choice.

New hardware goes a long way in giving your bathroom a new look for relatively little money. Given the many styles and finishes now available, it's easy to create a coordinated "suite" look with new matching towel bars and rings, switch plates, faucets, shower heads, drawer and door handles, hinges, toilet paper holders, shower curtain hooks, and more. Nickel continues to be a popular choice because it complements so many décor styles. Whatever hardware you choose, make sure it matches your cabinets.

And regarding cabinetry, are your doors and drawer fronts in rough shape, or looking a little passé? If so, replace them with new ones or, for even less money, refinish them.

Tear out your old lighting fixtures and replace them with more modern ones that match your new hardware — you can find new fixtures for a surprisingly low cost. But just looking good isn't enough — bathroom lighting needs to be functional, too. Make sure there's task lighting, essential for grooming, around your mirror. Downlighting from the ceiling causes shadows; instead, install a pair of wall sconces on either side of your mirror so their bulbs are at eye level. And don't forget ambient lighting if you use your bathroom to relax: some candles around your tub or a small, decorative table lamp on your vanity to cast a bit of warm light.

Now for the final touches: accessories. This is where you can get bold with color, and soften the edges of a room that's typically sterile and full of hard surfaces. Think fluffy towels folded on shelves or rolled up in a basket. Pick up a new shower curtain — maybe a clear one backed by a solid-color fabric liner to help create the illusion of depth — and matching bath mats. Is your mirror on the small side? Replace it with a larger one, which will help brighten the room, too. If your bathroom is airy and gets good natural light, add a moisture-loving plant to help breathe life into a room that can feel cold. A new toilet seat is a nice and inexpensive touch, too.

For more helpful tips, articles and listings, visit www.jackiemacdonald.com or give me a call at 778-549-0696!

Matters of the Art...

Jackie & John MacDonald — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 01:54:00 GMT

A house or condo doesn't truly feel like a home until there's artwork adorning the walls. But the process of selecting and displaying original works can be intimidating, which often results in blank walls long after you've moved in. Learn a few basics about choosing, framing and hanging artwork, however, and your intimidation will vanish, leaving you feeling at home with your art in no time.

CHOOSING

Some people look at original artwork as an investment. While it's certainly possible for a piece to increase in value and turn a profit for you, that hope needn't be your main motivation in selecting artwork. Further, the market's unpredictable and there are no guarantees as to the value of a piece at any given time.

There's really only one hard and fast rule to follow when buying art: love the piece. When you emotionally connect with a work of art, it will always hold an inherent value to you, regardless of its worth on the market.

To familiarize yourself with different styles of art, such as traditional and contemporary, visit local galleries. In doing so, you'll get a handle on what styles and mediums appeal to you and which of those would incorporate most graciously with your décor.

FRAMING

Like the art itself, its frame should make a statement about your personal style. Also, it should enhance the piece's beauty and help to protect it, without overshadowing the artwork itself. Not all pieces can be displayed in the same type of frame; a good framer will have a wide selection of frames and be able to advise you on which are best suited for your art.

It's important your framer uses quality materials (mat and backing boards, hinges, glass). Archival-quality materials aren't just for museum-worthy art. Cheaper materials may save you money now, but they often indicate poor-quality, and after a year or two, mats may change color and hinges can loosen.

HANGING

Artwork does best in stable climates, so try to avoid hanging pieces where temperatures and humidity levels fluctuate, like kitchens and bathrooms. While the space above your fireplace seems like the ideal place to show off a cherished work of art, you might not only be subjecting it to extreme temperatures, but soot, too.

Exposure to direct sunlight and UV lighting should also be avoided, as they can cause fading, yellowing and excessive heat. Picture lights, designed to attach to frames, can be harmful as well, by causing harsh glares and heating the paintings unevenly. Indirect sunlight, recessed lighting, or ceiling-mounted spotlights work best for home- installed art.

The biggest mistake people make in displaying artwork is hanging it too high, where it doesn't relate to the rest of your furnishings. Common custom is to hang it at eye level, but that means different heights to different people. A good rule of thumb is to hang your artwork so that there are 60 to 65 inches from the floor to the center of the art.

For more articles, tips and to sign up for my newsletter, visit www.jackiejohnrealestate.com!

Move for Less!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 05:13:00 GMT

There are a lot of costs associated with buying a new home, not the least of which is the actual move. Below are some tips to help make your next move less expensive:

· Professional movers are often the biggest expense. Consider either not hiring them altogether, or hiring them in a limited capacity. For example, hire movers only for loading and unloading, or to move just some of your things, like your biggest, heaviest items.

· If you need movers and can be flexible on your move date, hire them when they're least in demand. That typically means moving between October and March as opposed to during spring and summer, and at the middle of the month as opposed to the end.

· Don't buy boxes. Call ahead and arrange to pick them up from local businesses like grocers, office supply stores or publishing companies. Or, you can rent storage containers, from certain eco-friendly moving companies, for example.

· Is your move job-related? If so, talk to your employers; they may be willing to pay for a part, if not all, of your moving expenses. It's best to approach your employers upfront, as your cash flow might be tight, tied up in the purchase of your new home. Be sure to keep all your move-related receipts.

· Move less. The more you have to move, the more expensive your move will be. So before you start packing, purge. Recycle, donate and throw away as much as you can. Or, sell it — that way, you'll have a little extra cash to put towards your moving expenses.

More articles and helpful tips at www.jackiemacdonald.com!

Don't Believe the Hype - The Market Isn't Tanking!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 21:20:00 GMT

SEPTEMBER PREVIEWS FALL REAL ESTATE MARKET IN THE FRASER VALLEY

October, 04 2010 01:04:55 pm, by FVREB

(Surrey, BC) – After a slowdown in July and August, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) saw a modest month-over-month increase in sales on its Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) in September and a decrease in overall inventory for the fourth month in a row.

Deanna Horn, FVREB President, says, “This is the beginning of the fall market. Our sales, while lower than a typical September, are up compared to the summer and the average days to sale for single detached homes decreased slightly compared to August.”

A total of 1,044 sales were processed on FVREB’s MLS® in September, an increase of 5 per cent compared to 997 sales in August, however a decrease of 34 per cent compared to 1,590 sales in September of last year. The Board received 2,411 new listings last month, a 15 per cent increase from August, yet a 9 per cent decrease compared to September 2009. The Board finished September with 9,959 active listings, 3 per cent fewer than in August and an increase of 13 per cent compared to the 8,799 properties available in September 2009.

Horn explains, “Although consumers have 13 per cent fewer properties to look at in Fraser Valley than they did in May, it remains a buyers’ market with a healthy selection, near-record low interest rates and stable prices.

“It’s important that both buyers and sellers recognize that as long as inventory levels continue to decline, there is less downward pressure on pricing.”

The benchmark price for Fraser Valley detached homes in September was $507,429, down 0.5 per cent compared to August and 3.3 per cent higher compared to $491,404 in September 2009.

The benchmark price of Fraser Valley townhouses in September was $321,843, a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to August and a 3.1 per cent increase compared to September 2009 when it was $312,143.

Year-over-year, the benchmark price of apartments decreased 0.3 per cent going from $240,378 in September 2009 to $239,625 last month. It remained unchanged from the benchmark price in August

copyright Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, reprinted with permission.

For more helpful articles, listings and tools, visit www.jackiemacdonald.com!

Reduce, Reuse, Renovate

Jackie & John MacDonald — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 04:07:00 GMT

You may not have purchased a green home, but every time you undertake a remodeling project, you have the opportunity to make your living environment more environmentally friendly. Here are some tips for turning your next renovation into a more eco-friendly one.

If you plan to hire help, speak with professionals who specialize in eco-friendly renovations. From interior designers who can oversee your whole project with an eye toward minimizing impact on the environment and maximizing your energy efficiency, to contractors who can carry out one aspect of the job, such as painting, using eco-friendly materials and practices, you can put together a "green team" to help you with your renos

Instead of buying brand new materials for your project, see what you can reuse, or repurpose, wherever possible. For instance, if you're giving your bathroom a makeover, consider refacing the cabinets, instead of buying new ones, while still outfitting them with new hardware. This way, you'll have less to throw out when the job's done, and you won't be encouraging the manufacture of new products, which are often made using eco-unfriendly processes

Where you have to buy new, think green. Compare products made from recycled and/or recyclable materials such as glass. When it comes to forestry products like flooring, opt for products made from wood that's reclaimed or from sustainable resources like bamboo (look for the Forest Stewardship Council's logo). Choose low- or no-VOC alternatives to products such as paint and carpeting. Other ways to buy green include buying local and buying second-hand — check yard sales, flea markets, estate auctions, newspaper classifieds and websites like eBay and Craigslist to find what you need.

Minimizing your energy consumption is a great way to lessen your negative impact on the environment. So as you plan and execute your renovation, think about how you could make your home more energy efficient in the process. Remodeling your kitchen? Incorporate ENERGY STAR® rated appliances. Redoing a bathroom? Consider installing a low-flow showerhead and toilet. Installing new light fixtures? Outfit them with CFL bulbs.

Be conscientious about what you do with any materials you have left over from your reno project. Instead of just throwing away everything you replaced or bought but didn't use, donate what you can to charitable organizations (you might even get a tax benefit), find out what you can recycle (check your local municipality's official website for information on what you can recycle and where), or freecycle — you'd be amazed at what a treasure chest your trash bin can be to others.

Depending on what you do, greening your project might make for a more pricey — or less costly — renovation, but there are a few things you can usually count on. You'll lessen your negative environmental impact, make your home a less toxic place to live, lower the costs associated with running it, and make your property more appealing to buyers when the time comes for you to sell.

2ND QUIETEST AUGUST IN DECADE PRESENTS OPPORTUNITY FOR FRASER VALLEY BUYERS

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:45:00 GMT

(Surrey, BC) – Fraser Valley buyers and sellers continued to take a holiday from the real estate market in August with the region’s Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) showing a decrease in sales, new listings and overall inventory compared to July.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) processed 997 sales on its MLS® in August, a decrease of 44 per cent compared to the 1,786 sales during the same month last year and 9 per cent fewer than in July, however 10 per cent more than the 910 sales in August 2008. Deanna Horn, FVREB President, explains, “In August, sellers in the Fraser Valley took as much of a break as buyers. Even with our slowdown in sales, we’re seeing inventory edge lower. Since May, we’ve seen our volume of active listings decrease by 10 per cent.”

The Fraser Valley Board posted 11 per cent fewer new listings in August compared to the previous month, the fourth month in a row of declining new inventory. At the end of August, the total active inventory was 10,287, 5 per cent less than in July, however still 14.5 per cent more than the selection available in August 2009.

Horn adds, “Our selection of homes is healthy, interest rates remain historically low and prices are moderating, which represent excellent conditions for buyers. We’re currently seeing residential prices edge down month-over-month, but remain 4.7 per cent higher than they were a year ago.”

The benchmark price for Fraser Valley detached homes in August was $510,107, down 0.1 per cent compared to July and 5.4 per cent higher compared to $483,839 in August 2009.

The benchmark price of Fraser Valley townhouses in August was $324,485, a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to July and a 4.5 per cent increase compared to August 2009 when it was $310,389. The benchmark price of apartments decreased by 1.9 per cent from July and increased 1.5 per cent year-over year going from $236,146 in August 2009 to $239,659 in August 2010.

copyright FVREB, reprinted with permission

For more information, listings, and links, visit www.jackiemacdonald.com

Home Buyers in the Driver's Seat

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:20:00 GMT

Vancouver, BC – August 12, 2010. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in the province declined 42 per cent to 5,784 units in July compared to the same month last year. On a seasonally adjusted basis, MLS® residential unit sales in the province declined 19 per cent in July from June 2010. The average MLS® residential price climbed 6 per cent to $491,832 in July compared to the same month last year.

"A relatively large number of homes for sale have created the most favourable supply conditions for home buyers in more than a year," said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. MLS® active residential listings were 21 per cent higher in July than at the start of the year on a seasonally adjusted basis. However, with newly listed MLS® residential units now declining, tighter market conditions may emerge this fall.

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume increased 16 per cent to $24.2 billion, compared to the same period last year. Residential unit sales rose 4 per cent to 48,127 year-to-date, while the average MLS® residential price climbed 13 per cent to $504,281 over the same period.

For the complete news release, including detailed statistics, follow this link: www.bcrea.bc.ca/news_room/2010-07.pdf.

copyright BCREA, reprinted with permission

for more information, listings and blogs, visit www.jackiemacdonald.com, or give me a call any time at 778-549-0696

BC Home Sales to Rise in 2011

Jackie & John MacDonald — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:09:00 GMT

BCREA Housing Forecast Update - Third Quarter 2010

Vancouver, BC – July 30, 2010. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) released its Housing Forecast Update for the third quarter of 2010 today.

BC Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales are forecast to decline 7 per cent from 85,028 units in 2009 to 79,500 units this year, before increasing 5 per cent to 83,400 units in 2011.

“The volatility in consumer demand characteristic of the past 24 months is expected to give way to more gradual improvement through 2011,” said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. “Housing demand has fallen back to earth from its break-neck pace at the end of 2009 and is expected to more closely match overall economic performance over the next 18 months.”

“A larger inventory of homes for sale has created the most favourable conditions for home buyers in more than a year,” added Muir. “However, the buyers’ market is expected to be short-lived as total active listings peaked in May and are beginning to wane, with more balanced conditions set to emerge in the fall.”

The average MLS® residential price is forecast to climb 6 per cent to $492,800 this year and remain relatively unchanged in 2011, albeit declining by 1 per cent to $489,500.

The full BCREA Housing Forecast Update is available at: www.bcrea.bc.ca/economics/HousingForecast.pdf.

For more articles and info, visit http://www.jackiemacdonald.com, or call me at 778-549-0696 anytime with your questions!

reprinted with permission, content copyright BCREA.

Fraser Valley real estate market picks up in June

Jackie & John MacDonald — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 19:39:00 GMT

Fraser Valley real estate market picks up in June (Surrey, BC) –

Sales processed on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) increased by 23 per cent in one month going from 1,477 sales in May to 1,815 in June. June’s numbers represent an 8 per cent decrease compared to the 1,982 sales during the same month last year.

Deanna Horn, president of the Board, says, “Historically, it’s not unusual for June sales to outperform May in the Fraser Valley. This has happened in nine of the last twenty years. “However, a 23 per cent increase in one month is significant. We were busier than expected and it could be due to the combined effect of mortgage rates edging down, the Harmonized Sales Tax coming into effect July 1, as well as the tremendous selection of homes available in the Fraser Valley. “Although we’re seeing a decrease in the number of new properties coming on stream, June buyers have only had this volume of homes to choose from two other times in our history, in 1995 and 2008.”

The total active inventory on Fraser Valley’s MLS® at month’s end was 11,110, 19 per cent more than was available in June 2009. The Board’s MLS® received 9 per cent fewer new listings in June compared to May, good news according to Horn. “Listings typically do decrease in the summer, which will continue to stabilize the market. “Over the last few months, we’ve seen residential benchmark prices leveling. Year-over-year, price increases may still appear dramatic depending on the property type and location because at this time last year, we hadn’t yet begun our recovery phase. “In a stabilizing market, consumers know to rely on the expertise of a REALTOR® because prices are highly local and competitive.”

In June, the benchmark price for Fraser Valley detached homes was $518,355, a 9.9 per cent increase compared to $471,788 in June 2009. The benchmark price of Fraser Valley townhouses in June was $328,080, a 9 per cent increase compared to $301,103 in June 2009. The benchmark price of apartments increased by 6.6 per cent year-over-year going from $231,014 in June 2009 to $246,351 in June 2010.

for more useful articles, tips and listings, visit http://www.jackiemacdonald.com or give me a call at 778-549-0696. I'm always happy to answer your questions.

Copyright Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. Reprinted with permission.

Green Wallpaper

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:17:00 GMT

Green Wallpaper

Wallpaper is a great way to add color, pattern and texture to your walls. Unfortunately, most wallpapers aren't great for your home's air quality or the environment. But with a growing number of eco-friendly alternatives available, wallpaper may be coming back in fashion.

Just what is it that makes traditional wallpapers a poor choice for your health and the environment? Well, the problem is that they're made from traditional vinyl, which off-gasses harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air you breathe at home, and which sits in our landfills taking a long time to decompose. Additionally, traditional vinyl wallpaper doesn't breathe well, meaning that moisture gets trapped behind it. Moisture is known to encourage the growth of mold — which also has a definitively negative impact on indoor air quality. As well, the adhesives used in pre-pasted wallpapers emit toxic vapors, and the inks they're imprinted with are toxic, too.

But not all vinyl wallpapers are created equally — not anymore, at least. Now, manufacturers are offering recycled vinyl wallpapers.

There are, however, options that are even more eco-friendly, such as wallpapers that are made from — if can you believe it — actual paper, be it recycled and/or recyclable paper. Also more eco-friendly are wallpapers made from naturally sourced and sustainable materials like bamboo and other grasses, jute, cork, rice paper, silk, sisal, hemp, and wood from sustainably-harvested forests. In addition to decomposing more quickly and being easier to recycle, wallpapers made from natural materials allow your walls to breathe, helping to prevent moisture and mold.

Other features that make some wallpapers more eco-friendly than others include their imprinted inks (green ones are made with water- or vegetable-based, non-toxic or low-VOC inks and dyes), their glazes (which should also be non-toxic for maximum friendliness), and the process used to manufacture them (some manufacturers not only produce green products, but do so using green manufacturing processes).

In the past, eco-friendly wallpapers were hard to find, were available only in a limited selection of designs, and were quite pricey. But all that's changing now, as more and more people are becoming health and environment conscious and are demanding products that befit a greener lifestyle. Interior designers, always the trend setters, are making it easier for the average homeowners to get their hands on a wider variety of green wallpapers at more reasonable prices.

Modern Trends of Functional Kitchens

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 03:31:00 GMT

What's the recipe for a fabulous, functional kitchen? This question is key whether you're buying a new home, renovating your current one to make it more appealing to potential buyers, or enhancing it for your own enjoyment. Below is a list of essential epicurean kitchen ingredients:

Layout is crucial. The classic work triangle — of which the three points are the fridge, stove and sink — is classic for a reason: it's the most efficient layout. But as homes become bigger, two-cook families become more common, and more entertaining happens in the kitchen, the triangle gives way to layouts consisting of multiple workstations in the form of islands and peninsulas, sometimes outfitted with a second sink or cooktop.
Today's homeowners have more kitchen appliances than ever — juicers, countertop composters, espresso machines — making counter space critical. Counters should be ample beside the fridge, stove, sink and microwave, where they'll be used the most. As to countertop finishes, durability and easy cleaning are key. Ceramic tile and laminate surfaces aren't as durable as solid surfaces like granite and marble, but cost considerably less.
Flooring should likewise be durable and easily cleaned, as kitchens are high-traffic areas and subject to frequent spills. Vinyl is often forgiving, potentially saving that dropped dish, but it damages easily and needs replacing sooner than other flooring. Wood and ceramic tiles look great but are harder to clean. Laminates lend themselves well to kitchens, as they're long lasting, easy to clean, reasonably priced and attractive.
If energy-efficient appliances aren't a must now, they soon will be, as homeowners become ever more conscious about lowering the costs of home maintenance and the impact of energy use on the environment. Regarding color and finish, stainless steel is trendy and attractive. On the flip side, trends come and go, and stainless steel finishes show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain their good looks. A popular, fail-safe alternative to stainless steel is classic white.
Standard 30-inch high cabinets are giving way to 36- or 42-inch cabinets, providing extra storage for rarely used items. Custom cabinets are the most pricey, but even stock cabinets are customizable, thanks to the multitude of space-saving organizers available, like under-cabinet spice racks, roll-outs, Lazy Susans, hanging cookbook racks, etc.
For a kitchen to be appealing and functional, it should incorporate both ambient and task lighting. Task areas like sinks, counters and tables need intense, shadowless light — under-cabinet mounts to illuminate counters; and pendantstyle fixtures suspended over islands and peninsulas. Ambient light provides the brightness needed for casual activities — fluorescent uplights over cabinets; halogen puck fixtures; and dimmer switches to create mood.

Go Green
Kitchen countertops made of stones like granite and marble are fashionable but far from eco-friendly. The quarrying to dig the stones out of the earth is destructive to natural habitats and pollutes our air and water. For a greener alternative, consider countertops made from recycled glass, recycled paper, or sustainable woods or grasses like bamboo.

Creating Your Own Sky Garden!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 03:14:00 GMT

There's no reason why, as a condominium dweller, you can't benefit from all the joys of gardening. With a little bit of planning, you can create an above ground garden on your own balcony. Just remember to keep the following points in mind:

The first thing to do is check your building's balcony policies to ensure you're not breaking any of the condo's rules.
Check out the climate on your balcony (i.e., How much sunlight does your balcony receive, and for how long? What are the typical wind patterns and strengths?). You may need to construct a barrier to protect the plants.
Decide on the variety of plants to grow on your balcony. Consult with your local nursery on the best choices of herbs, vegetables and flowers for your balcony's location and climate.
Choose lightweight containers for your balcony. For example, you can find plastics designed to resemble clay, providing the character you're looking for, without clay's heavy weight.
Add ambiance to your balcony garden with outdoor carpeting, wooden floor tiles, or other lightweight flooring. Consider a water feature for a relaxing atmosphere.

Gardening is a great stress reliever. Getting your hands away from your smartphone and into some dark, rich soil — and creating something beautiful in the process — is a great way to relax. Start your own garden on your balcony, or volunteer on your board's landscaping committee. An added incentive for doing the latter is that you'll help maintain your condo's value by keeping it beautiful for all to enjoy.

Condo Composting!

Jackie & John MacDonald — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 05:19:00 GMT

Whether you're a condo dweller with a green thumb or one who's concerned about the environment, you'll be pleased to know you can compost when living in a condominium.

Unfortunately, municipalities are slower to bring recycling and composting programs to condos than houses, so your condo may not offer composting - yet. Consider approaching your board of directors about bringing composting to your residence, or, better yet, volunteer on the board and take an active role in getting such a program implemented.

In the meantime, you have many options for composting right in your own unit, including using a commercial kitchen-compost. There are many varieties, from countertop "crocks" made of ceramic or stainless steel and outfitted with replaceable carbon filters to combat odor, to undersink models ranging in sophistication from those that are crank-operated and require adding an activator, to those that use an electric motor and are computer monitored.

For people who can stomach the idea, another option is a worm bin (vermicompost). You can buy worm-bin kits or make your own; easy-to-follow instructions are all over the web. If you have a shaded balcony, you may want to keep your worm bin on it, but it can be kept right in your condo without requiring much space (rubber storage containers are ideal for making worm bins) or smelling bad.

Alternatively, you can always collect your kitchen scraps in a plastic tub or sealable bag, keeping them in your freezer until the time you can drop them off at a local compost or farmer's market.

for more tips and articles, visit http://www.jackiemacdonald.com . Please feel free to comment below and make suggestions for new blog entries!

BC Home Sales Moderate in First Quarter

Jackie & John MacDonald — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:27:00 GMT

Vancouver, BC – April 13, 2010. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in the province climbed 43 per cent to 7,110 units in March compared to the same month last year. On a seasonally adjusted basis, MLS® residential unit sales in the province increased 6 per cent compared to February 2010. However, home sales in March were 20 per cent lower than December 2009 on a seasonally adjusted basis.

"Home sales have moderated since the beginning of the year," said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. Waning pent-up demand and eroding affordability were key factors in the market. "Despite an improving provincial economy, higher mortgage interest rates and tighter credit conditions for low-equity homebuyers and investors will squeeze some prospective buyers out of the market this spring," added Muir.

The BC residential sales dollar volume increased 95 per cent to $9.22 billion in the first quarter of 2010 compared to the same period last year. Residential units sales rose 64 per cent to 18,284 units, while the average MLS® residential price climbed 19 per cent to $504,312 over the same period.

for more statistics from this article, visit http://www.bcrea.bc.ca/news_room/2010-03.pdf

for more useful articles, tips and listings, visit http://www.jackiemacdonald.com or give me a call at 778-549-0696. I'm always happy to answer your questions.

Copyright Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. Reprinted with permission.

Relocating Responsibly

Jackie & John MacDonald — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:02:00 GMT

Whether you're relocating across town, across the country or across the world, you can make your move a little easier on the planet. Follow these tips to make your next move a more environmentally friendly one.

One of the main tenets of green living is, "reduce." So get rid of as much of your stuff as you can pre-move. The fewer things you have to move, the less packing material and fuel you will require. But purge the eco-friendly way: offer items that don't make the cut to friends and family, hold a garage sale, or sell, donate, or recycle them. Check out a service like Recycle It http://www.recycle-it-now.com/ as they will pick up your stuff, sort it, recycle it, and toss only what they can't put to better use!
Don't buy boxes; scavenge them from local retailers or friends and family, or go to your local cardboard recycling depot, and recycle them post-move or pass them on to someone else. Alternatively, you can rent storage containers, either from a regular moving company or one of the increasing number of green moving companies that offer containers made from recycled materials.
Bubble wrap and Styrofoam peanuts are made in an eco-unfriendly way and linger in landfills. Don't buy packing material - collect it from the products you buy and reuse it for your move; use your clothing, bedding, towels and kitchen cloths to pad your belongings; or pack with paper products like newspaper and cardboard, which can be recycled when you're finished with them.
Hire an eco-friendly mover. They provide the reusable, recycled and/or recyclable storage containers and packing materials for you, take them away when your move is over, and, in some cases, they use trucks that run on biodiesel fuel to transport your belongings.

For more useful tips and articles, visit http://www.jackiemacdonald.com

Condo Staging - quick tips

Jackie & John MacDonald — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 06:14:00 GMT

Stage to Sell:

Spring is just around the corner, at which time buyers will come out of hibernation. To help give your condo an edge in the coming market, incorporate these staging tips.

A part of what attracts people to condominiums is the beautiful views they offer. If your condo boasts great views, play them up. For example, open your window coverings, make the views focal points by arranging your furniture so as to direct attention to them, and hang mirrors where they'll reflect the views.

Make sure each room is being used - or at least staged - so as to reflect its intended use. Repurposed rooms can confuse buyers. For example, you may have no need for a dining room, using the area as a home gym instead, but buyers will want to see a dining room - if they don't, they might walk away thinking there isn't one.

Show off the space, not your stuff. Remove excess furniture, keeping only those pieces necessary for daily living. Clear your counters, and empty your closets, drawers and cupboards of about half their contents. Smaller spaces look cramped more easily, so when it comes to staging a condo, a "less is more" approach is key.

For those with balconies, don't forget about them. Your balcony may just be storage space for you, but for buyers it can be an important selling feature, especially at this time of year. Clear off the clutter, give it a good cleaning, and dress it up with appropriately-sized outdoor furniture and a splash of greenery.

More tips, links and info at www.jackiemacdonald.com!

STRONGER THAN EXPECTED FRASER VALLEY HOME SALES DURING OLYMPICS

Jackie & John MacDonald — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 21:02:00 GMT

(Surrey, BC) – Not even the most engaging Olympics in Canadian history could completely slow the appetite for house hunting, according to the most recent statistics from the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.

The Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) recorded 1,204 sales in February, an increase of 23 per cent over January’s sales and an increase of 77 per cent over the 682 sales during February of last year.

Deanna Horn, president of the Board explains, “Although the phones were quieter and we did experience less traffic at open houses, we were surprisingly busy given how much everyone, including REALTORS® were enjoying the Games.

“Buyers are aware of two key changes that could impact their purchasing ability. The new mortgage rules coming in April, plus the Harmonized Sales Tax in July, so the ‘Olympic effect’ we were expecting wasn’t as deep.”

The Board’s MLS® received 2,879 new listings in February, an average of 144 per business day, providing buyers with 14 per cent more selection than they had the previous month. The number of active listings in February was 8,485, 12 per cent fewer than were available during February last year.

Horn adds that the combined strength of listings and sales currently is stabilizing Fraser Valley home prices. “Overall, we’ve seen modest price gains for the last three months. The benchmark price for all residential types combined increased less than one per cent from January to February.

“When you have a healthy level of inventory, it puts less upward pressure on prices and creates a stable, balanced market.”

In February, the benchmark price for Fraser Valley detached homes was $508,136, an increase of 11.3 per cent from the February 2009 price of $456,683.

The benchmark price of Fraser Valley townhouses in February was $324,708, a 9.8 per cent increase compared to $295,731 in February 2009. The benchmark price of apartments increased by 7.8 per cent year-over-year going from $228,091 in February 2009 to $245,879 in February 2010.

Information and photos of all Fraser Valley Real Estate Board listings can be found on the national, public web site www.REALTOR.ca. Further market statistics can be found on the Board’s web page at www.fvreb.bc.ca. The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board is an association of 2,981 real estate professionals who live and work in the communities of North Delta, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Abbotsford, and Mission.

Copyright Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. Reprinted with permission.

More articles and information at www.jackiemacdonald.com, or call me anytime at 778-549-0696

Household Hazards - dangerous products in your home

Jackie & John MacDonald — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:56:00 GMT

As we grow more conscientious about our health, our impact on the environment, and how we spend our money, we become more choosey about the products we will - and will not - allow into our homes. Below are five chemicals commonly found in household cleaning products that you are urged to avoid.

AMMONIA
A gas comprised of nitrogen and hydrogen, ammonia is found in a plethora of household cleaning products due to its effectiveness in cutting grease and cleaning glass. As its strong odor indicates, ammonia is caustic; it's also poisonous if swallowed and particularly dangerous when mixed with chlorine bleach. Derived from petroleum, ammonia is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract, burns skin on contact, and can trigger asthma attacks and cause headaches. Vinegar works just as well, is non-toxic and cheaper than commercial cleaners containing ammonia.

CHLORINE BLEACH
Chlorine bleach may be next to ammonia on this list, but they should never be next to each other under your sink; the two combined are extremely dangerous. Also known as sodium hypochlorite, bleach is used as a disinfectant and whitener, sold by itself or as an ingredient in common household cleaners like dishwasher detergents and toilet bowl cleaners. Unfortunately, its fumes can irritate the lungs, making it a poor choice for those with respiratory problems. It can also damage the skin, eyes and other mucous membranes, and is potentially lethal if ingested.

FORMALDEHYDE
This pungent, colorless gas, commonly used as a disinfectant or preservative, is found in air fresheners, carpet cleaners, furniture polish, and dishwashing liquid, to name a few. Formaldehyde has been associated with a litany of health hazards, including respiratory problems, dermatitis, dizziness, headaches, joint pain, immune dysfunction, fatigue, and eye, nose and throat irritation. It's also a carcinogen. Check product labels for these synonyms: 1,3-dioxetane, formalin, methanal, methyl aldehyde, methylene oxide, oxymethyline, Quaternium-15, urea.

SODIUM HYDROXIDE
Also known as caustic soda or lye, this is one of the most toxic chemicals you'll find in a household. It's the main ingredient in oven, drain and metal cleaners. In ovens, the strong chemical compound, alkali, works by converting grease to a kind of soap; in drains, it works by decomposing complex molecules like the protein in hair. As such, it's not surprising that sodium hydroxide can seriously irritate the eyes and respiratory system, causing asthma attacks, and can even corrode the skin. It can also have an effect on the pH levels of water, killing aquatic life.

TRICLOSAN
Classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a pesticide, triclosan is the active ingredient in antibacterial products like liquid soap, though it's found in other products like laundry detergents and sponges, too. Studies show there's no benefit to using antibacterial soaps and that triclosan may actually encourage bacterial resistance to antibiotics. It's also been linked to weakened immune systems, asthma and allergies, decreased fertility, cancer and tainted water. Triclosan is marketed under brand names including Microban®, Irgasan®, Lexol 300, Cloxifenolum, BioFresh™, and Ster-Zac.

Article from my February 2010 online newsletter. To sign up for my free e-newsletter, click here: http://www.jackiemacdonald.com/ and fill out the request form!