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        <atom:link href="https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/2019-07/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>Calgary Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/2019-07/</link>
        <description>Justin Havre's Calgary Real Estate Blog brings you the latest market news and property listings, as well as tips for buying or selling a home.</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/lies-myths-about-the-real-estate-industry.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/lies-myths-about-the-real-estate-industry.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Lies &amp; Myths About the Real Estate Industry</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


When you're buying or selling a home, there are a ton of ins and outs that define how smoothly a transaction will go. Because the home-buying process is so complex, many myths and misunderstandings propagate, giving new home-buyers an incorrect understanding of what to expect when buying a home. Here are a few of the most common real estate myths to look out for.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.


Top 10 Real Estate Myths


What lies about the real estate industry have you heard? Here are a few widely circulated myths that many inexperienced home-buyers fall victim to believing.


1. A Referral Is The Best Way To Get A Real Estate Agent


Simply trusting that an agent has your best interests at heart can lead to disappointment. Your needs are unique. Qualify all real estate agents to ensure they are competent and motivated to properly represent you.


2. Pay Off Your Mortgage Quickly


If you reduce your payment or simply pay interest only (secure line of credit) and invest the savings into a compounding interest account, your savings will be much higher than the value of your original mortgage.


3. You Don't Qualify For A Mortgage


Regardless of your credit or income, anyone can purchase a house. Options such as joint ventures, vendor financing, second mortgages, and many more, provide endless opportunities.


4. When To Buy Real Estate


If the papers say that a city is booming, everyone wants to buy. Therefore, this is the perfect time to sell. When everybody is selling because of a recession, then you buy while prices are rock bottom.


5. Its All About Price


Negotiating mainly on the price of a property will limit your opportunity. If you can offer more favorable terms to the other party, then the price will become secondary.


6. 1 Agent Someone Is Lying


Every agent seems to advertise that they are 1. You may not be getting the whole story (ex. 5 agents working under one name). Be careful of what you believe, as the criteria of measurement may lack relevance, or be severely outdated.


7. More Experience The Better


If a real estate professional has not kept up to date with the changing technology, understands the importance of professional IT support, regulations, market conditions, or modern service style, then all their past experience won't help you be properly represented.


8. Super Agents


If an agent works alone, be careful. It is impossible for someone to be accessible at all times. Your business may be handled by a real estate agent you have never met until your agent is available.


9. Every Agent In A Brokerage Is The Same


Real estate agents choose their own methods of customer service and business practices within their brokerage. Only very basic standards are in place, therefore, don't assume one agent is the same as the next.


10. Calling Signs Is The Best Way To Find A Property


An agent selling a property cannot represent their seller's best interests and yours at the same time. This is a conflict of interest. Save yourself potentially thousands and find your own agent.


The Importance of Having a Strong Understanding of Real Estate When Buying


Many people are afraid to purchase a first home because they're not real estate experts yet. Even some homeowners on their second or third purchase still feel this way, especially if they were burned in the past by buying the wrong home. But unless you plan to do something like flip a home for a profit, you only need a basic understanding of real estate processes and terms as long as you work with an experienced buyer's agent. Your real estate agent can explain all the essentials during the home search to give you a complete education on the essentials of real estate.


Don't just work with the seller's agent if you don't have a strong understanding of real estate. These agents are representing the seller's best interests and not yours as the buyer, so you may not get the same amount of information and help with your search. Hire a dedicated buyer's agent to streamline the process and bring you up to date on the latest changes in your local real estate market. With the help of the right real estate agent, buying should go smoothly even if it's your first time.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jul 2019 12:11:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/mistakes-to-avoid-when-selling-your-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/mistakes-to-avoid-when-selling-your-home.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Many home-sellers make some very common mistakes that can cost them time and money. When it's time to sell your home, you want to make sure you don't make any of the following common selling mistakes.


Bad Home Presentation


If your home isn't ready to show, you may struggle to sell it, regardless of the price. You want to make sure the property is clean, well maintained, tidy and in order. Make sure you take care of any small repairs before listing your home for sale.


Taking the First Offer Lightly


Sometimes, as a seller, you think the first offer is just a sign of many more to come. This causes you to take it a little lighter than you probably should If it's a good offer, instead of waiting for a better one, make sure you consider the offer seriously before walking away from it or accepting it.


Choosing the Wrong Listing Price


Sellers often list their home for sale at the wrong price. Sometimes they price the home too high and it scares away buyers, while other times they price it too low. Performing a market evaluation before pricing a home for sale is a very important part of the process.


Adding Too Many Upgrades


You may think adding upgrades will make the home easier to sell, but some buyers don't want to pay for those upgrades. It's important to get the opinion of an expert before upgrading any features of your home.


Not Getting Professional Listing Photos


One of the biggest mistakes that a seller should avoid during the sales process is not using professional listing photos. While many people may think using their own photos is “just fine,” professional photos will make a huge difference in how the home is presented to a potential buyer. A professional real estate photographer knows how to get the right angles that really showcase a home through photography. After all, the old adage about a picture being worth a thousand words is certainly true when it comes to first impressions, so it is well worth investing a bit into making sure buyers are wowed.


Choosing The Wrong Realtor Or Not Working With A Realtor At All


The right realtor will not only help you sell your home faster, but will also help to ensure you don't make any mistakes along the way. If you choose a realtor with plenty of home-selling experience, they will make sure you list the home for the right price and they will also help to ensure it's ready to show.


Make sure you listen to your realtor, as they are the expert. Whenever selling a home, take your time and do it right the first time instead of regretting it later.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2019 07:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/home-selling-in-a-competitive-buyers-market.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/home-selling-in-a-competitive-buyers-market.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Home Selling in a Competitive Buyer's Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Getting a home ready for sale requires a lot of care, but even more so in a buyer's market. Selling your house fast is a challenge in slow markets, but a buyers' market raises new challenges. When sellers take advantage of the information below, they will know how to help their homes stand out from others in the neighbourhood.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.


Understanding a Buyer's Market


What is a buyer's market? The definition is somewhat malleable. Simply put, a buyer's market means that there are more homes for sale than there are interested buyers. Although this dynamic is often divided by region, there could be different kinds of markets from one neighbourhood to the next, or among pricing levels. For example, there might be a tight seller's market for homes under a certain price, and a buyer's market for home prices that are much higher.


How Can Sellers Improve Their Homes for Buyers?


When sellers are aware that the market they are entering puts buyers at an advantage, they should do whatever they can to help their homes seem more appealing. This means making at least a handful of basic improvements to make the home fit buyer expectations. The average home buyer wants:




At least three bedrooms


Garage space


Extra room for storage


Updated kitchens and bathrooms




People who have upgraded their homes fairly recently might just need a new coat of paint, a few minor repairs, and some expert staging to draw buyers in. Homes that do not meet buyers' minimums could need a greater investment to update the property and make it work for a larger number of potential buyers. Fortunately, improvements tend to increase the resale value, so it may be a worthy expense. Just be sure to seek permits for any major renovations, or else issues might come up during the real estate transaction.


Make Repairs to Any Flaws or Damages in the Home


In a buyer's market, buyers tend to have high expectations. Sellers can make their home stand by making repairs to any damages and flaws that could prevent a buyer from making an offer. 


Below are some common repairs that a seller might make to their home:




Repair or replace the roof


Tear out old, leaky pipes and install new


Fix any foundation problems




Homes that have serious maintenance problems may take a very long time to sell in a buyer's market, and those that do sell will generally fetch a low price. 


If all major systems seem to be operational, the homeowner can determine what needs to be repaired by getting a home inspection from a certified home inspector. A good home inspector can tell the seller which parts of the home would most benefit from home repair. 


What Is the Best Pricing Strategy for a Buyer's Market?


Pricing the home to sell is sometimes more difficult than it may seem. Since most buyers are contingent upon mortgage financing, and most lenders require an appraisal before granting funding, pricing the home too high does not make much sense in any kind of market. Pricing far too low in the hopes of sparking a bidding war may draw in more buyers, but possibly not any higher prices. In a buyer's market, sellers may do best to ask their agent to do a competitive market analysis to ascertain the fair market value of the property. Setting the list price a little below this number will help maximize the seller's profit without alienating prospective buyers.


How Can Sellers Market Flexibility to Buyers?


When buyers have the upper hand, they may ask for more flexibility in time to get a home inspection and appraisal, negotiate any necessary repairs that result, and close on the sale. Sellers can indicate that they are willing to work with these needs mostly through their agent. When buyers come for a showing, agents can put remarks on the listing describing how far sellers are able to go to ensure a smooth transaction. Sellers do not have to accept any purchase offer they receive. However, they should seriously consider the ramifications of rejecting or countering any reasonable offer, when buyers are few and far-between.


Selling a home in a buyer's market is far from simple, but it can be made a lot easier. When sellers try to anticipate Cochrane home buyer needs and meet them before requested, they can attract more attention and impress buyers from the moment they walk through the door.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2019 11:30:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/why-does-your-landlord-ask-for-a-security-deposit-2.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/why-does-your-landlord-ask-for-a-security-deposit-2.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Why Does Your Landlord Ask for a Security Deposit?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Any time a landlord rents out an apartment, he is taking a risk. If he gets the wrong type of tenant, his asset could be virtually destroyed. When you are asked to provide a security deposit it will cover any damages that you may make to the apartment when you are living there.





The Protections For Your Security Deposit in Albertan Rental Properties


Just as a landlord has recourse against tenants who damage rental property, tenants enjoy reasonable expectation that their security deposits will be held in trust and returned promptly. By law, a landlord may require no more than one month's rent as a security deposit, and it must be retained in a designated trust account. The deposit cannot be retained without justifiable cause, and final settlement must be made in a timely manner. 


Following move-out, the landlord has 10 days to supply a tenant with a Statement of Account, detailing the reasons for any amounts to be withheld. Valid reasons include the cost of necessary repairs, cleaning fees, unpaid rent or other unpaid fees, and unreturned keys. 


If you signed a rental agreement prior to move-in, review that agreement and accompany the landlord or a property inspector on a walk-through prior to move-out. Document, as suggested, the property's condition with photographs, and you should encounter no problems. If you have not received a final statement of account within 30 days, or if there is a continuing and unresolvable dispute between you and your landlord, you may file an application with the provincial court, or ask for resolution through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service, which provides a way to resolve problems outside of court.


What Does the Safety Deposit Cover?


The deposit covers other thing besides damages as well. Most leases contain a clause that states that the apartment must be left in the same condition as it was when you first moved into it. If, for instance, you decide to upgrade the beige paint job in the apartment to a baby blue colour, you have made changes to the unit. The landlord has the right to take funds out of your security deposit to repaint the apartment.


Making Unauthorized Changes to the Apartment


It doesn't matter whether you think you upgraded the apartment by providing a brand new paint job. You made changes and can be billed for them unless you have previous authorization to paint the unit in blue from your landlord.


If you do get the approval to make any changes, it must be done in writing. Once you have signed a physical contract any amendments to it must be made physically as well. A verbal contract regarding the changes can be disputed. You must get things recorded in writing.


Using Photography to Get Your Security Deposit Back


The best way to protect yourself to insure that you can get back your security deposit without any problem is to take before and after pictures of the apartment. Before moving in your furniture, take out you cell phone and snap some pictures of the apartment. If you notice anything broken, stained or dirty, be sure to take close-up pictures of the specific areas. Then, once you have moved out, take some more pictures that can prove the condition of the apartment when you left it. This way, you will have proof that you can easily provide should any questions arise concerning your security deposit and how much you'll get back.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jul 2019 11:30:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/how-to-avoid-falling-for-a-rental-scam.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/how-to-avoid-falling-for-a-rental-scam.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>How to Avoid Falling for a Rental Scam</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


It has been difficult to find rental properties across the city of Calgary during the last year. With so many people looking for a unit and so little available, it can become quite a desperate situation if you're looking for a place to rent. Unfortunately, some underhanded people are taking advantage of this desperation and are running a rental scam on Kijiji.





Rental Scams Are On the Rise in Calgary


The RCMP is warning consumers to watch out for a scam that will encourage you to pay for a damage deposit for a rental property that's completely fictitious. Scammers are placing pictures of houses on the Red Deer and Calgary Kijiji classified ads websites and advertising them as rental units.


If you respond to the ad, the people at the other end will let you know that they are currently out of the country and will ask for a Western Union or Moneygram transfer for the damage deposit and for the rent for the first month. You'll be promised the keys when the money has been received.


You may also be asked to fill out an application form for the rental. The spammers will use your personal identification for identity theft and fraud.


Top Rental Scam Red Flags


Knowing what to look for when searching for rentals is key to avoiding scams. While many rental scams are quite complicated and high-tech, they still tend to give away their schemes to careful readers who know what red flags to look for. Watch out for:




Claims of high demand or anything that would cause you to hurry and rush through the application process, such as having other renters interested and ready to move in


Refusal to show you the property or give you a tour because it's already occupied, while landlords in Calgary are legally allowed to require current tenants to allow them in to show a property


Grammar and factual mistakes in the listing, such as a mismatch between the claimed number of bedrooms and what's shown in the photos or on a floor plan


Free background checks and credit reports advertised by the landlord, which can be used as phishing schemes to get your personal information


MLS or real estate agent watermarks on the photos, which indicate they were taken from a sale listing and are likely stolen entirely


Requests to fill out an application or submit background information before seeing the property, which indicates you're being phished for your personal details


Requests for deposits or payments before a lease is signed or the property is seen, two more signs there's no actual rental property to visit


No address, location information, or photos in an ad


Homes listed below value in popular vacation areas, a scam in which a criminal tries to rent out a summer vacation home while its owners are away.




How to Protect Yourself From a Rental Scam


The police are currently on the watch for these types of scams but as a potential renter you'll need to keep yourself protected. Here are some safety tips offered by the police that should be followed:




Never put down a deposit for a home that you haven't stepped into.


Be suspicious of any low prices


Work with a professional property management company. 


Photos that look professional with exotic descriptions may be coming from website listings of homes for sale.


Never provide personal information directly through an advertisement. Your personal details should be filled out on paper and then handed over to the person in charge of renting out the unit.




Be on the lookout if you're looking to rent a home or an apartment so you and your household don't fall prey to a rental scam. Consider working with a real estate agent to ensure you have an expert's opinion in place to keep you safe while you're viewing new rental homes.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:29:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/tips-for-designing-an-efficient-home-office.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/tips-for-designing-an-efficient-home-office.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Tips for Designing an Efficient Home Office</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Working from home has become not only possible, but increasingly common, across all fields and in all parts of the world. With the reliability of high-tech communication, and a growing trend toward decentralization in commerce, more and more employees work at home at least part of the work week.


If you work from home, even if only for a few hours each week, a dedicated work space is a decided benefit. An attempt to concentrate on business while family life swirls around you will usually be less than successful.  In order to make working from home a viable option, both aesthetics and efficiency should be considered. Soundproofing your home office may also be necessary. Design of the work space is a strategic benefit and a priority. The space need not be large, but it should be comfortable, attractive, and well-organized. Here are some tips to make the home's office as efficient as its corporate counterpart.


Define Your Priorities


When setting up a home office, the three primary requirements are privacy, efficiency, and proper lighting. Depending on the specific type of work you will be doing, there might also be a need for storage, resource materials and specialized equipment . Aside from those basics, the space can be as small as a well-ventilated closet, or occupy the better part of an entire level, such as a renovated basement or attic. Finally, if you anticipate meeting clients or coworkers in your Home office, there is a need for comfortable seating, and a clear path from the entry to the workspace.


Plan for Comfort and Quiet


No matter what type of work you plan to do, creature comfort is important. In addition to a well-organized work surface, ergonomic seating or another option that suits your personal needs, natural light as well as directed task lighting, access to fresh air and a pleasant view, and a growing plant to provide oxygen will all make your workday more pleasant.


The Right Technology


High speed internet access is a given, for almost any home office. Also consider the need for a router to facilitate multiple devices and boost signal strength, charging stations, adequate plug-in capability and surge protectors for printers and ancillary equipment. Your team may also require managed IT services. 


Set Boundaries


When the work day ends, you should be able to close the office door, mentally if not physically, and go home. Delineating the boundaries between your workaday world and your Cranston home life is vital. A well-planned home office will allow that.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jul 2019 10:45:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/must-have-features-for-an-outdoor-living-area.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/must-have-features-for-an-outdoor-living-area.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Must-Have Features for An Outdoor Living Area</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


At one time, it was enough to have a patio in the backyard for lounging and entertaining. Today's homeowners are more sophisticated, which may be why outdoor living areas are gaining in popularity and becoming a popular home improvement for homeowners and sellers. The best outdoor living areas have a variety of components that can increase comfort and give homeowners options as they spend time outside.


Shade


Sun is a welcome component of any outdoor living area, but its position can make or break the outdoor experience. No outdoor living area is complete without shelter to give shade. Shade can be provided in many ways, so it's up to the homeowner to decide how it should be done.




Canvas covering. This option is utilitarian, easy to install and effective against the sun, but sometimes lacks in beauty.


Pergola. A vine-covered pergola adds beauty to any back yard, and for any homeowner dedicated to natural shade, this is a smart way to provide shade in natural ways.


Tall plants. Some homeowners prefer to provide shade and privacy through tall plants, like potted cypress trees.




The most sophisticated outdoor living spaces will have an actual roof that can provide shade and shelter from the elements. This type of shelter provides protection from rain and snow, and thus makes it easier for homeowners to install outdoor electronics like a television and entertainment center.


Seating


Seating is critical in any outdoor living space. Homeowners who construct their outdoor space must decide for themselves whether they want their seating to be built in to the structure, or installed separately in the form of moveable furniture. Often, homeowners will install a combination of these two types of furniture.


Typically, seats are arranged into zones where guests and residents of the household can sit in groups to talk and share stories. This grouping creates an intimacy that makes the living space a fun area to spend time.


These areas are among the most desired home features for buyers, so making them comfortable is just as important for the future as it is for your enjoyment now. 


Kitchen and Dining


Dining and food preparation is an important part of any outdoor living space. Often homeowners choose to install a grilling area and counter space where food can be cut, cooked and served to guests. Homeowners who wish to install a gas grill and refrigerator in their outdoor living space must hire an experienced plumber and electrician to ensure that installation is done properly.


When planning the dining area, many homeowners will place the dining space in an area of the outdoor living space where there is a good view of the backyard or surrounding environment. This makes it easier to enjoy the time spent eating outside. Homeowners who like to entertain may also ensure there is ample space for everyone they wish to invite over.


Weather-Safe Outdoor Storage


Any outdoor living space will need weather-safe storage to make it functional and effective year round. While most homeowners will use their new outdoor space as much as possible, there will be at least a few weeks or months when it is simply too cold or the weather is too bad to get much use. Adding weather-space storage allows for cushions, kitchenware, and other items to be tucked away and kept safe from even the harshest weather. Plus, adding weather- storage increase to the storage that is already available inside of the home, making the entire home, not just the outdoor space, more efficient and functional all year round.


Lighting


Lighting is critical. Proper lighting enables people to use the outdoor living space at all times of the day or night. Lighting can take many forms. The most sophisticated outdoor living spaces will often include a fireplace or fire pit that provides heat, warmth and beauty in addition to light. Often outdoor living spaces also include electric lights built into the structure. Good lighting is important for safety. Homeowners who are working with a professional to install their outdoor living space must remember that good lighting is necessary for parts of the living space where accidents can occur, like on stairways.


The best way to properly install a Cochrane home outdoor living space in the back yard of a home is to work with a construction contractor. A good contractor will know the various building codes and materials to ensure that the outdoor living space is properly and safely constructed, and that it will last for many years to come.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 2019 11:09:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/what-is-a-dual-master-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/what-is-a-dual-master-home.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>What Is a Dual Master Home?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


All jokes aside, a dual-master is about bedrooms and bathrooms. Not about who's in charge at home. Dual-masters are becoming more popular and satisfy a particular niche in Calgary's housing market.


There is a cross-section of the population for which a traditional three-bedroom home doesn't quite work. Dual masters can be a great alternative, with bedroom/bathroom configurations that work well in smaller homes such as townhomes and condominiums.


What is a Dual Master Home?


A dual master home is a home with two master bedrooms, each with their own ensuite and frequently their own walk-in closets. They often take that extra square footage that would have been a third bedroom and instead make a second master bedroom so people can be accommodated uniquely. Some new home builders are saying that 10 to 20 of their offerings with smaller footprints are dual-master homes.


The History of the Dual Master Home


This type of home certainly fits a niche but the rise of the double master-suite home is not as quick as some predicted.


In 2011, the National Home Builders Association in the U.S. predicted that by 2015 at least 60 of all new homes built in America would have master suites. Their predictions were out by quite a bit, both there and in our country. The beauty for the purchaser of buying a dual-master home is flexibility. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms on one floor and with the exception of apartment condos, often a third or maybe even a fourth bedroom can be added at a later date in an unfinished basement.


Which People Do Dual Master Homes Appeal To?


Dual master homes appeal to people in a variety of different living situations. Some people use their dual master suite as a luxurious guest bedroom. This is useful for people who often open their home to friends and loved ones.


Other people use their dual master bedroom to accommodate their elderly relatives. As multi-generational homes become more common, dual master homes make it easier for homeowners to live with their parents, grandparents and even their adult children. 


People who age in place sometimes relocate to their second master suite if it's in a part of the house that's easier to access. For example, a homeowner who lives in a home with two stories may decide to move from the bedroom in an upper level to a bedroom on the ground level, if stairs become difficult to navigate. 


Thinking of Renovating?


The popularity of dual master-suites is not lost on people renovating existing space. It's important to keep the whole home in mind when creating a new floor plan during a renovation. Here are some considerations:




California splits: These popular four-level split homes have two bedrooms on the top floor and one or more on the third and fourth levels of the home. The second bedroom on the top floor is often very small, suitable for a nursery and often people will but this top floor and put in one master suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. The problem with this configuration is re-sale. Even with more bedroom options on lower floors, this configuration often leaves out families with children under 10 who don't want their children on a different floor, let alone a floor two levels down. It's not impossible to sell this type of home but you are limiting your potential market.


Large Homes: Homes with 2,000 square feet or more frequently have four bedrooms up. The temptation may be to create dual masters upstairs; however with so much room to work with in a home this large, likely with basement development, you might want to spread the master suites out on different floors. Too much togetherness in a house this big isn't always appealing.




Speak With a Real Estate Agent to Find the Perfect Dual Master Home


Do you want to buy a dual master home? Speak with a real estate agent today for help searching for a new dual master home and navigating the real estate market of Calgary.


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    <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jul 2019 11:08:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/top-neigbhourhoods-in-calgary-for-families.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/top-neigbhourhoods-in-calgary-for-families.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Top Neighbourhoods in Calgary for Families</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Moving to a new city is a stressful event, but it can also be very rewarding. If you choose the right neighbourhood for your family, you get involved sooner rather than later and you embrace your new city, you can eliminate some of the moving stress. It starts with the neighbourhood you choose and here are a few of the best choices for families in Calgary.


Parkland


If you have younger children, Parkland is the best choice. This neighbourhood has the highest population of children under 14 years of age in the city. The Community Association here is very active and many programs are provided for children, including Sparks &amp; Brownies, Cubs &amp; Beavers, soccer, hockey, karate and many other choices. Along with the emphasis on children, the homes here are affordable and come with large yards.


Tuscany


The Calgary Tuscany real estate development provides over a dozen great private and public schooling options for your children. With some of the best choices in the city and many within walking distances of the homes, this is a great place for education. Top rated Catholic Schools and highly rated public schools provide plenty of options, along with many continuing education choices just a short drive away.


Discovery Ridge


A community with only a little over a decade under its' belt, but one of the best in the city for families, Discovery Ridge provides a save place for young families to live. It's known for natural playgrounds, acres of parks and many young families throughout the area.


Brentwood


Brentwood is a great neighbourhood in Calgary that is perfect for families that love to spend time outdoors. With so many outdoor trails to take a hike, ride a bike, or just go for a walk, the recreational opportunities in Brentwood are endless. For those that like to spend more time inside, there is a local skating rink in Brentwood as well as the Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic &amp; Recreation Centre. There are programs for people of all ages offered at the recreation centre, and the community of Brentwood offers residents a close-knit feel. When you want to know your neighbors and want to feel part of a community, Brentwood is an excellent place to move your family.


Arbour Lake


A community that understands what the word &quot;community&quot; means, Arbour Lake is a highly desirable place for families. Parks, recreation facilities, friendly neighbours and great schools define the area, along with plenty of shopping and restaurants. Located only 20 minutes from downtown, commuters can settle here without issue.


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    <pubDate>Wed, 10 Jul 2019 11:05:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/how-baby-boomers-are-influencing-housing-trends.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.justinhavre.com/blog/how-baby-boomers-are-influencing-housing-trends.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>How Baby Boomers Are Influencing Housing Trends</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Baby boomers are getting older and greatly influence the housing trends in Calgary and across Canada. The largest increase in birth numbers since 1921 took place in 1945 and 1946, which was the beginning of the baby-boom. It ended in 1964 and 1965. This means that there were approximately 20 years of increased birth amounts and these babies are now in their late 40s - 60s.


There were more than 8.2 million babies born during this time period. If you average that out it's about 412,000 births yearly. During the same time women were averaging 3.7 children each while in recent years the number has decreased to 1.7. The 2011 Census figures showed that approximately 3/10 Canadians were baby boomers.


How Baby Boomers Affect Real Estate Trends


There have been various research reports and studies done on baby boomers and how they are and will be affecting housing trends. Here are some of the common trends that have come out of this research, and they really aren't all that surprising.


Higher Demand For Smaller Homes And Condos

Many baby boomers have raised their children and are now interested in downsizing. There is also an increased demand for neighbourhoods that are easily walkable.

Lower Home Values In Suburban Areas

A lot of baby boomers purchased homes in suburban markets to raise their families. As the downsizing trend continues these homes will be put on the market, which could potentially lower the value in these areas.

Baby Boomers Are Staying Longer in Their Suburban Homes


Many baby boomers are avoiding the trend of downsizing and staying put in the suburban homes they used for raising their families. This trend is being driven by a number of factors, including:




Better health as they age, allowing them to stay independent and out of assisted living facilities for longer than previous generations


Lack of affordable smaller housing for downsizing that still fits their needs and desires


Shrinking pensions and retirement funds, coupled with rising living costs, that make it hard to afford a different home even after selling the current one


Delayed retirements that leave many baby boomers working into their 70s or even 80s which means employee health is important, allowing them to afford the upkeep on their current homes


Preserving space for inviting family members to visit or stay permanently, which is a major trend affecting the children of baby boomers.




Regardless of the cause, the lack of downsizing is affecting the supply of large suburban homes for growing families. New construction is one way to avoid this issue, but it can only help to a certain extent until undeveloped land prices rise to compensate.


Higher Prices In Established Communities

Higher prices may be expected in communities that have been established, which will reduce the number of opportunities available for younger homebuyers.

The Conference Board of Canada conducted a study showing that 80 of the new demand for housing by 2030 will be from seniors. These retirees will be looking for low-maintenance housing like residences for seniors or condos. This shift away from single-family homes could lower prices on the traditional single-family housing styles.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:01:00 -0600</pubDate>
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