Gorgeous 3 bedroom townhome in Central Abbotsford!
Move in Ready!! Are you a first time home buyer? This could be a perfect fit for you!
Call today at 604-832-8229 for a viewing appointment! I would love to work with you to get you into the home of your dreams!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Are you having trouble staying on top of market updates for your area? You really don’t need to anymore with me on your side! 
Watch this …
I’d love to answer any of your questions regarding areas, markets, anything related to getting you into the home of your dreams!! Give me a call at 604-832-8229!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
You’re in your dream home!! Now is the time to continue adding value to it through regular maintenance, and while you’re at it, why not add some color and beauty through sustainable gardening?! Gardening has many varieties, and all are what you make it! It can be fun (if you like it) and it can be laborious (if you don’t 
). I like gardening and what it does for the soul, and also what it does for our Mother Earth (happy belated Mother’s Day to all you mom’s out there by the way!)!
Here is a great post I enjoyed, that I’d like to share with you today regarding Sustainable Gardening. “In terms of gardening, the idea of sustainability goes hand in hand with the concept of environmental responsibility – doing things that heal rather than injure, help rather than destroy, and at the heart of this whole idea is the notion of doing no harm, but rather doing something positive and helpful.”
Click here to read to entire post!
If you’re NOT in your dream home yet, give me a call! I would love to work with you to get you in the home you deserve!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Once you’re in your new dream home you may consider a few new things! Like, a new unbelievably cool refrigerator! Check THIS out!
It’s incredible what a little appliance can do, isn’t it?
I’d love to work with you to get you into the home of your dreams!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
When it comes to prepping your house for sale you want to make sure that your home is presentable and up to date!! 2012 will bring with it trends of its own, but for now househunting.ca has THIS to say:
“Avocado bathroom suites, sandy-coloured fridges, plastic-smelling lino floors, shaggy shag-pile rugs – We all know some home-decor fads can cruelly creep into home-decor faux pas sooner rather than later.”
Their post today is about the Top Decorating Trends for 2012!! You can see ALL their ideas by clicking this link! (by the way, MY favorite is the pink pig )
This is one of their suggestions. What do you think?
How do you plan on decorating for 2012? Will you make any significant changes?
There is a lot to consider when going out to purchase a home. And, if it is your first time, then it can seem even more overwhelming! 
Stop worrying though … that’s what I am here for! My name is Michele Cartwright, and I am here to make the whole process as smooth and easy as possible for you!
Here are some highlights from a list I found over on RealEstateWeekly.ca regarding the most important things you need to know and prepare for, when purchasing a home.
For the entire list, please visit this link. It walks you through ALL the main points of the purchasing process.
It’s holiday time … for some! That means sand and surf and beautiful views 
… and what to do with your house while you’re away?
Do you get a house-sitter? Do you spruce up your home alarm system? Do you borrow a friends dog?
There are many options, and really none of them are wrong. You must do what works best for your situation and your budget!
HouseCarers.com is a great service, highly recommended, where you can find a house-sitter. Here is a testimonial from their website:
This is a fantastic service. We had about 10 replies in three days, mostly from very suitable people. We will use it again. I like the fact that our confidentiality is protected and that you have such comprehensive guide-lines for agreement between sitter and house-owner.
A second option is sprucing up your home alarm system while you’re away. FamilyVacationsNews.com has a great site and “shows how you can really beef up security inexpensively in this great little video.” You can watch that here.
As for the dog, well, that is something you may want to look into!
If you have a home security system in place that is monitored by an outside company, remember to give them a vacation notice call to let them know you’ll be away!
I hope this helps with your plans for getting ready for your next great vacation! You work hard and have earned it! The last thing you want is to have it spoiled by an unnecessary break-in while you’re away.
Have you ever considered investing in Real Estate as a means to an end? I mean, if you’ve dreamed of becoming an investor and maybe even retiring earlier than planned, this will be a good read for you!
I came across a post that had some great information in it, and wanted to pass it along to you!
Here are some highlights:
Often, first-time property investors jump into the market based on a prediction made by a family member, friend or self-proclaimed expert. But that’s not investing, says Real Estate Investment Network President Don Campbell, it’s speculating.
or
as a new investor, should avoid buying in developing subdivisions
The writer goes on to tell you why that is a bad investment idea.
You can read the entire article here.
In the mean time, if and when you are ready to start some real estate investing of your own, please contact me so I can help you get the best deal possible!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
It’s not a big surprise that there is a LOT of snow on the ground right now after the week we’ve had in the Fraser Valley! For some, this is FUN! Refreshing; tobogganing with the kids; hot chocolate by the fire inside! For others … not so much fun. Spinning bald summer tires and a bad case of the “I didn’t plan for this” is putting some people OFF this week!
So what about your home? Is IT prepared for cold and blustery weather? It may be too late for the current conditions we’re in, but it’s always a good idea to have it prepped, in general, for the whole of winter. Here’s a great video I found that will help you before the next big storm hits!
Keep that caulking gun and weather stripping handy for the next big chill!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
As a Fraser Valley Real Estate professional I like to stay up to date with the market so that I know how to serve you best. Here is an excellent video from the British Columbia Real Estate Association explaining the overview of the real estate market in 2011. I hope you enjoy it!
If you have any questions about the market, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me! I am here for you!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
If you’ve ever driven past one of these sign posts and got goosebumps, that may be an indication that you were meant to be a Realtor in this life! If that’s the case, I thought I would assist you with a few great links on how to become a Realtor in British Columbia.
Helping people buy and sell homes, office buildings, industrial property and corporation farmland, property management, land development, mortgage banking, urban planning, real estate counseling, appraisal and research are all aspects of a career in real estate.
If you have any questions about becoming a Realtor in British Columbia, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me. I’d be happy to chat with you about it.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
While it is imperative for most to get a mortgage in order to purchase a home, it is not always known who is the BEST person to do the job for you.
Because I have been in this industry for a while now I have been able to align myself with some of the best mortgage professionals in the area, and very proudly support them and refer my clients to them.
Here are two of the very best in our local Fraser Valley / Greater Vancouver area:
Sandy says, “For most people a mortgage is their biggest investment that they will make in their life time. I can help you save time and money getting the best mortgage with the best rate and terms that will suit your needs and lifestyle.”
You can see more about Sandy here, on her website.
My second mortgage professional is:
Geoff has this to say, “I’m in business for the sole purpose of giving you new options to helpwith the financing or refinancing of your home or business. In a challenging economy, we all need to be willing to keep our eyes and ears open to new opportunities that can improve our situation and position ourselves better for the stronger times soon to come.
I don’t know if you’re happy or royally aggravated with the current level of service and amount of helpful ideas you get from your existing finance providers, such as banks or other mortgage brokers. I can tell you that I do things very differently than most.”
Read on about Geoff and what he offers here.
Not everybody does business the same, and not everybody works as hard for YOU as these two will! Guaranteed!
When you are ready to get pre-qualified for your next mortgage, or are ready to refinance the home you’re currently in, don’t hesitate to contact one of these fine professionals! They both have my stamp of approval!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
& and INCREDIBLE deal awaits you in Surrey City Centre, the GVRD’s fastest growing city!!
features Concierge Service …
open balcony and modern European finishes …
**OPEN HOUSE** coming Saturday, February 11th! Feel free to call me for information at 604-832-8229.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
According to the president of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB), international affordability studies regarding Vancouver are misleading because they don’t reflect the reality that homebuyers purchase more affordable homes every day in neighbouring communities.
Sukh Sidhu is a REALTOR® who lives and works in Abbotsford. “So far this month, over 50 homebuyers in the Fraser Valley have purchased a condo for $199,000 or less and over 100 families are now proud owners of townhomes valued at $399,000 or less.
“About one-third of our buyers are first-timers and two-thirds are using equity from an existing home to either buy up or down size and they’re thrilled with the value and benefits home ownership provides.”
According to a recent Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey, Vancouver ranks the second most unaffordable major housing market in the world based on median household income and a median home price of $678,000.
Based on January sales to date, the median home price in Fraser Valley is $405,000. Sidhu says, “To buy that home, you would need about $80,000 as a household income, however to buy a typical condo or townhome in Surrey or Abbotsford for example, you need less than $60,000 as a household income.
“We’re not suggesting that affordability isn’t an issue in Greater Vancouver. In fact, REALTORS® in BC are amongst the most active proponents of strategies to make home ownership more accessible. What we are saying is that these broad, general studies don’t reflect what’s really happening within the local housing market.”
The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board is an association of 2,893 real estate professionals who live and work in the communities of North Delta, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Abbotsford, and Mission, British Columbia. The FVREB marked its 90-year anniversary in 2011.
To find your most affordable home solution, give me a call today!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Craigslist, for real estate. Good idea or bad. Of course I think you should not try and sell your home on Craigslist, and I’ll explain why below.
Now don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Craigslist, if you’re looking for some decent used furniture or maybe some Canucks tickets, yes! But for the sale of your home, I would highly recommend a Real Estate Professional be used.
Here’s why NOT to sell your home on your own:
There are a multitude of reasons why I would not recommend trying to sell your home on your own. I am a Realtor because I love it not just to earn a living! I LOVE getting you into the home of your dreams for the best possible price OR out of your current situation, whichever it may be.
My motto is “Because YOU deserve the best” and I mean that; I live it!
When you’re ready to sell, please consider my services. I’d love to help you get the best price possible!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
There’s a “new kid on the block” and he uses the internet to look for real estate properties! This was SO cool, I just had to share it with you!
“For the first time, buyers can locate properties for sale on the Internet using 360-degree imagery and travel up and down streets viewing homes – as if they were there in person.
Vancouver-based BestHomesBC.com is launching the unique property search service that utilizes Google’s Street View to locate homes currently for sale throughout British Columbia.
Users simply click on the house symbol within Street View to instantly reveal property details with a link to the full-page listing on BestHomesBC.com. This includes comprehensive property information including a YouTube video, Walk Score and a link to the listing realtor’s contact information. If users see another house symbol up the road in Street View, they can move further up and compare property details.”
“It’s an effortless way to actually see what the homes and neighbourhoods look like without viewers having to leave the comfort of their living room or even their country,” says Nicola Way, BestHomesBC.com’s owner …”
You can view the entire article here.
Just imagine, you REALLY want to see a place, but have just a jam packed week and are not able to make an appointment to view. Simply by using this service you can see the property and home, and call ME up to say Michele, I’m ready to buy!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Is using Facebook to promote Real Estate the way to go? Here is what I have found …
although I am fairly new at it, I am finding that interacting with people is by FAR the best way to grow the “likes” on your page.
Here is a link to my Facebook fan page, and I’d love it if you think I offer value, if you would give me a “like”! It is at http://facebook.com/udeservethebest and you’ll see get a special welcome message from me when you get there!
I find too that it is NOT just about promoting my listings, but it is a place to offer advice and value to those that land on my page. I want to be of service to those around me, and to do it with some flair and even fun!
This post was prompted by something I saw in LinkedIn so I thought I would bring that idea over to my blog. Sharing and helping each other grow is what I believe social media is all about. Social media is NOT going anywhere, so we may as well embrace it, and use it to better ourselves, our businesses and to help each other out!
Here is something that you may be interested in.
What do you think? Do you use Facebook and social media? Share your links here and let’s get connected! If you don’t, why not?
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
From the Financial Post:
“Record-high household debt levels in Canada are a concern for Canada’s banks, but the risk remains moderate, says a new report from UBS AG.
“We think conservative underwriting, low loan-to-value ratios, high returns, strong capital, and a better fiscal backdrop provide resilience,” said analyst Peter A. Rozenberg.
While household debt to disposable income is 150% and house prices are much higher than normal based on price-to-income ratios, Mr. Rozenberg said debt service is average and loan-to-value ratios are low at 55 to 65%.
“Furthermore, there are government guarantees on 60% of mortgages, and residential delinquencies are only 38 basis points,” the analyst said.
He estimated that a 25% decline in house prices, would result in mortgage losses of only be 10-12 basis points and a doubling in overall provisions for credit losses similar to 2009 would result in a 15-20% decline in earnings per share and a 14% return on equity.
“Economic vulnerability to high consumer leverage and external shock remain concerns,” he said. “However, we think credit risk is moderate, due to mitigating factors. Nonetheless, growth will slow.”
Does this look like “greek” to you? Sometimes it does for me too. Don’t let what the media says discourage you from your dream home. All this means is that if you plan and prepare properly for either your first home purchase, or relocating it is very possible. No matter the state of the economy houses still buy and sell every single day.
When you are ready to make your next (or first) move, let me know and I will do everything to help make that as smooth a move as possible for you! In the mean time, check out my listings! Maybe you’ll see something you like.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
this guy's ready for hunting
The thrill of the hunt is a very big deal. You plan, you budget, you get pre-qualified for a mortgage — then you start shopping for a house! Of course, that is where I’m able to help you find your dream home. Now that’s happened, you actually need to MOVE! Most people don’t find this to be a very fun or inviting task, so I’d like to offer you with some great tips on making that move a little easier.
According to homesandland.com:
“Moving to a new house is a time of pressure with so much in mind concerning a new job, dealing with paper work, working with movers and so on. It is impossible to remember everything. Organization is the key for a smooth move and this is the time to start getting the details…”
There is definitely a LOT to think about! Moving may not always necessarily mean relocating to another city, but even moving within the same city can be challenging.
Click here for a handy list, a moving guide, that will help you stay organized, and on track for that big move to your dream home!!
It will tell you things like:
For the entire guide, please click here.
Don’t forget to check out my Loyalty Card (click there ) page as well (you will have received one for working with me) as there may be some great deals there that will assist you in your move too!
Before you know it you’ll be all settled in and the dreaded MOVE will be over!!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
I’m so blessed to be a part of this community known as RE/MAX. For as long as I’ve been involved in Real Estate, I’ve always loved what I do. I’m able to help people in a way that they typically cannot help themselves.
Here is an example of why I particularly love the office of great people that I work with.
“CONGRATULATIONS RE/MAX Little Oak Associates!! You have donated over $115,000.00 to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation!”
I don’t say this to boast in any way. I am very grateful for the work that has come my way, I work hard for your business, and I do everything I possibly can to make your Real Estate transaction smooth sailing for you, my client. I work hard, I like to play hard and I LOVE to give back.
What types of giving opportunities do you see for yourself that perhaps you could be overlooking? It’s not always about money. Sometimes giving of your time, or your talents, is exactly what is needed. If you are in the Abbotsford area, and are looking to give back, why not start here, at www.volunteerabbotsford.org.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Have you been a renter for as long as you can remember? I know some people who have. The chart below will perhaps paint a new picture in your mind for just what is possible for you, if you are that renter, for home ownership!
|
Get Renters Into HOME OWNERSHIP! Check out below how much of a mortgage your clients
Get your clients pre-approved at today’s LOW rates before they rise! - NO DOWN PAYMENT Mortgages STILL AVAILABLE! - Check out below how much your clients could be
$800/month rent = $185,000 mortgage* $900/month rent = $210,000 mortgage* $1,000/month rent = $235,000 mortgage* $1,100/month rent = $255,000 mortgage* $1,200/month rent = $280,000 mortgage* $1,300/month rent = $305,000 mortgage* $1,400/month rent = $325,000 mortgage* $1,500/month rent = $350,000 mortgage* |
Keep in mind, and this is very important, that all of the above is based on 3.19% and a 30yr amortization. Subject to qualification, rates can change at any time.
When you’re ready to STOP RENTING give me a call and let’s get you into YOUR VERY OWN home!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Have you ever wanted your own beautiful starter place? Well, this is JUST the one for you! Convenience, functionality, elegance, it’s got it all! Check it out …
For more information on this, and other listings I have in place, please give me a call at 604-832-8229, or fill out your information on my “Contact Me” form.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Here is a great idea that I got from “Mr. Real Estate Advertising,” Australian born Ian Grace … making your Marketing and Media efforts work together! Long gone are the days of only one or two types of marketing. While newspaper advertisements still may have a place in some communities, in the larger communities and cities there are so many more places that are available to be SEEN! So don’t limit yourself!
I’m not sure if you have noticed, but I have definitely been branching out recently, and it is starting to make an impact on my business. I’m on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube, and am really enjoying the feedback I’ve been getting. I’ve also continued with my newsletters, as well as, obviously, blogging! There are so many different things you can offer through these different platforms that newspaper, radio and even TV don’t offer.
It’s all about engaging and interaction with your customers, and social media is definitely the way to do that!
I’m not saying that you necessarily need to STOP doing what you’re doing with newspapers, etc., but definitely consider adding these components to your current marketing efforts.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
I am always on the lookout to provide you, the consumer, with quality listings at affordable prices!
A Central Abbotsford townhouse with all the amenities, for under $200,000!! Wonderful END Upper Unit! Why live in a condo when you can own a town-home with your own entrance and garage for the same price?
For a viewing or for more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 604-832-8229.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
A February 2012 market update for the lower mainland of British Columbia.
Have questions or comments? Please don’t hesitate to contact me.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Well, really just be aware of what you are getting yourself into! There are a lot of people still trying to do this very difficult thing all on their own, and they don’t need to.
I love representing RE/MAX because we really do whatever it takes to get you into the RIGHT home for you and your family!
Watch this video, and you’ll see what I mean!
Get in touch with me today and I’ll show you how I can help you find that RIGHT place.
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
Some people, for one reason or another, are not happy with their home, BUT, they are also not willing to move … yet.
For these people … LET THE RENOVATIONS BEGIN!! Besides, often after a renovation is complete those same people change their minds and are willing to sell as their home now is priced at a much higher value!
Here are a selection of AMAZING renovations I found online that I wanted to share with you, just to show what IS possible!
For the ENTIRE article click THIS link.
Remember, when you ARE ready to sell that beautifully renovated home, I’ll be here to help get you your best price possible!!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
“The best investment on earth is earth.”
Louis Glickman
What a GORGEOUS place!! I’d live here!
I will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, March 10th, 2012 from 2 – 4 PM. Make sure you pop in to see for yourself this amazing home!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
With the BCTF on strike for the majority of this week (March 5 – 7, 2012) there is no school, meaning … kids are HOME!! Now what?
If you have the luxury of being able to stay home with them I’d like to offer you some possibly useful websites for you. That last thing you want is for your children to sit around and watch TV all day for the next three days, so get them active and doing some things that maybe they would not otherwise have the time for!
Here is the link for our local library (www.fvrl.bc.ca) — there may be some extra activities happening there this week that could be fun!
Here is a link for 10 Activities To Do At Home With The Kids (www.planningwithkids.com) — again, perhaps there’s something new and exciting in there that you would not have thought of on your own.
Here’s something different, At Home Science Activities for Children and Families (www.tryscience.org) — “Science is all around you. Your backyard, your kitchen, and other areas around your home provide natural “laboratories” for children. Children are curious; exploring with science can be lots of fun while also teaching them a great deal about themselves and their world.”
It may be a challenging week, or it may be fun! Make the best of it!
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
I LOVE serving the people of the Fraser Valley, and it’s great to see there’s a Challenge coming from the TOP! The City of Abbotsford reported:
“Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banman was joined by Mayors from Coquitlam, Surrey and Langley on February 16 as they participated in the Healthy Community Challenges’ preliminary challenge metrics day. Each Mayor had their metrics taken and shared their fitness goals prior to them starting the 90-day Healthy Community Challenge on March 10th.
The City of Abbotsford proudly supports healthy lifestyles for all citizens through Healthy Abbotsford, a community-wide initiative aimed at engaging residents in participating, promoting and fostering healthy lifestyle choices and improving their overall health and well-being.”
You can learn more about this health challenge that’s taking over the Fraser Valley starting this weekend, March 10th here (click link). Getting involved? I know lots of people will! Why not make it your time to get fit and healthy too!
In the mean time, why not sign up to my Loyalty Program and support another local Abbotsford initiative. Get 2 FREE tickets for signing up! Click on the banner over here 
“Because YOU Deserve The Best!”
PS Don’t forget about my Open House this weekend (click the link for details)!! See you there!
Your job is transferring you to a new city, or, your family is moving and you want to follow. New adventures in life can be exciting, and scary too.
You need to move, you want to move — but how do you know which Neighbourhood to move to?
I’ve laid out some great information for you regarding some of the areas in the Fraser Valley that you may find helpful when pursuing that perfect (for you) Neighbourhood.
Click the link of each city to find out more:
There are also some other great areas, such as Maple Ridge and Mission.
When it is time to start looking, I’d be honored to help you find YOUR dream home in the best possible neighbourhood for your family.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
A buyers agent is special! They are there for YOU and your needs, making sure you get not only the best deal, but all the little extras that perhaps you wouldn’t even know you can ask for!
I would be honored to help you find YOUR home that is just right for you and your family, and making sure it has everything you need!
Please either contact me through my website, or give me a call at 604-832-8229.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
If you’re anything like majority of people, finding time to spruce up your home is difficult! We work, we’ve got families to drive to soccer practice and part-time jobs and dance lessons, we make dinner, clean it up then we’re off to the Wednesday night meeting! Who’s got time for it all?
That’s why when I found this idea of 30 minute spruce up’s I knew I had to share it!
Coming from househunting.ca is this GREAT post about sprucing up your whole home!
Here are some highlights:
“Look closely, and you’ll probably notice lots of smudges on your walls and doors, particularly around light switches, doorknobs and door edges. A Mr. Clean Magic Eraser takes those off in a snap. So does Scrubbing Bubbles spray cleaner, which does a great job of removing all kinds of dirt from hard surfaces. Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever once used it to clean a bathroom, but I use it all the time on my walls.
Clean light fixtures and fans Have you looked at your dining room chandelier lately? Chances are you haven’t, because we rarely look up.
Chandeliers are particularly prone to collecting dirt, because they have so many surfaces. Giving yours a good dusting, including the light bulbs, will let your light shine brighter.
While you’re at it, check the state of the globes over lighting fixtures, the blades of ceiling fans and the plastic grates over bathroom exhaust fans. The latter might benefit from removing the grate and giving the inner workings a good vacuuming, but be sure to shut off the power first.
Did you ever look at the spot where your carpet meets the baseboard? The vacuum cleaner doesn’t reach it well, so it’s a place where lint, dust and other dirt collect. That’s the kind of job a vacuum cleaner’s crevice tool is made for. A nozzle with a narrow end, it cleans those small spaces and grooms the edges of carpets.
Baseboards get dusty. Ceilings collect cobwebs.
Grab your long-handled duster and make a pass around the top of a room and then the lower perimeter.”
Now, doesn’t that look better? More importantly, don’t you FEEL better? Each one of these tasks will only take you about 30 minutes (assuming you don’t get side-tracked!)
Getting ready to sell? Then these types of touch ups and sprucing up are important!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
There’s more than one way to get into either your first home, or to down-size, if that is your current need. Just watch …
So you see, there are solutions everywhere, you just maybe don’t see them! That’s why I’m here for you, to help get you exactly what you need!!
And hey, if you need a shopping buddy in Arizona, I just might be up for that too!
Till my next blog …
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
By the way, don’t forget about my Loyalty Card over there on the right hand side of the page! Chock full of goodies for you!!
SPRING is FINALLY here!! Well, almost! Tomorrow is the first day of spring, and I thought who better than Sarah Richardson to tell us all how to put a little springtime back into our homes!
The next time we talk, it’ll be SPRING!! Enjoy this last day of Winter!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
PS Why not get your hunney some lovely Springtime flowers by using my Loyalty Card, right over here
Just for fun today I thought I’d share something with you that REALLY made me laugh! Do you remember your first job? Well, Ellen DeGeneres cut of video of her not only remembering her first job, but going back there to see if she could do the work again! It’s really fun!! Enjoy
I hope you’re having a great day!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
PS Just for FUN why not take advantage of some of the great treats I have for you with my Loyalty Card! Check it out over here on the right of the page!
I feel so blessed that RE/MAX Little Oak Realty supports the efforts of Children’s Miracle Network.
There are a lot of great causes out there, but helping sick children and their families in need, well, somehow that just seems like something extraordinarily worthwhile.
I wanted to share with you some of the faces of the children that are being helped and even healed through the efforts of the Children’s Miracle Network. These are all from their official blog, which you can find by clicking here.
The rest of the images from “Photo Friday” can be found here. I encourage you to think of giving to this worthy cause, whether it be from your pocketbook, or your time.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
I have a new listing (click here for MLS: F1207109) to share with you!
This wonderful home is a rancher at the ground floor with bedrooms on the opposite ends. It has a formal living room and dining room with a family room off the kitchen. With a south facing patio that is bright and spacious you’ll be able to enjoy many wonderful summer nights out there with friends and family, or just on your own if that’s what you prefer.
Newly engineered flooring and carpet in master bedroom and living room as well as freshly painted make this home completely updated. A spacious laundry room allows for storage that you may be lacking in your current home.
I would love to work with YOU! Just move in and Enjoy! Give me a call TODAY at 604-832-8229.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Here’s something pretty cutting edge I bet you didn’t know about RE/MAX. We now have mobile apps! It’s a very exciting thing to be able to search through an application on your smart phone and come up with a listing you either want to look at, or perhaps find a Realtor (ME ) to work with!
So, here’s what it will look like on your phone. It’s really easy to use, I’ve tried it myself just to see! Just follow the download instructions according to whichever kind of phone you have, and then start searching! Really that easy!
If you don’t want to actually search your phone for the RE/MAX application, simply scan this QR code, and it will bring you directly to where you need to be! It works, I tried that too, just to make sure!
Thanks to technology today it allows us to connect even faster! I’m looking forward to working together with you, getting you into the Home of your Dreams!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
PS In the mean time, don’t forget about my Loyalty Rewards program! Become a client and receive all sorts of extra special goodies from me!
I’ve got some new and exciting things to tell you about! Are you ready? 
First, I have a couple of NEW LISTINGS!
The first place is at #12-31406 Upper Maclure Road. Click HERE for the full details!
The second new home offering is at 35387 Wells Gray Avenue. You can see all the information HERE.
For me SECOND big announcement, I am running a Brand New Contest over on Facebook! You’ll have to click the picture to check it out! But let me give you a small hint …
I’m looking forward to this FUN contest!!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Right In The Heart of Maple Ridge… Clean, Fresh, Spacious 2 bedroom Condo! Fresh Paint, New counter tops in the Kitchen and the Bathroom has newer flooring.
This Home is in Move Condition! Also, it is located on the quiet side of the building.
Great for First Time Buyer or Someone Looking to Downsize!
Call today for your private viewing! I would love to work with you!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
In doing some research on our fine city of Abbotsford to be able to share with you, I came across this link from our official City of Abbotsford website.
In there I found this great report from Ken Baerg, who is the Director of Economic Development for the city. This is what he has to say about Abbotsford, and our future:
“Our vision for 2012 is one where we work towards the completion of a comprehensive economic development strategy and plan that will be the department’s true north in terms of the activities it wants to implement,” said Baerg, Abbotsford’s director of economic development for the last year and a half.”
“We plan to pursue specific initiatives and activities that will help build towards a more livable, sustainable and prosperous community.”
The report goes on to say much more. You can upload a copy of it here (click to open).
Abbotsford is a diverse community with so much to offer!
Let me help you find your dream home within this diverse and exciting city! I’d love to work with you!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
I’d like to take this moment to wish all my of friends, family, followers, clients and potential customers a VERY Happy Easter!
May you Celebrate in a way that is meaningful to you.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
The Salvation Army in Abbotsford and Mission is looking for donations of clean, gently used clothing, books, small household appliances and furniture. Their thrift stores accept donations and also have a pick up service available for those donating larger items.
The address in Abbotsford is Gladys Avenue and in Mission on Park Avenue off Lougheed.
The Salvation Army would appreciate your help in helping them help others in our community.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Funny thing is that so many of us tend to avoid our offices when it comes to Spring Cleaning.
Here is a great little video I found that will perhaps inspire you to tackle that home office, or wherever your office is! It needs a good Spring Cleaning too!
I like these ideas! “Re-purposing” items you won’t use is a great way to help the environment too! I hope you found this as helpful as I did!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
As an active and up-to-date Realtor, I like to stay on top of statistics and information surrounding the communities I serve. Here is some useful information, that may help you make a decision about where you want to live, and move to.
Here are some highlights:
For the entire report, please click here:
I hope you have found this to be useful information!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Just for fun I thought I’d start a new feature on the blog here … so, from time to time I’m going to share with you one of my FAVORITE recipes! I love to cook and entertain, and so I’ll be sharing some of those with you here.
To start things off, I thought I’d share with you my recipe for an appetizer that can be used for almost any kind of party!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Thank you to my colleage Jacquie Claggett for providing this great information!
Bank of Canada is keeping its key overnight interest rate at one per cent, the central bank announced Tuesday. The bank has held the trendsetting rate steady since September, 2010. But in its statement Tuesday, the bank suggested that the days of cheap borrowing could be coming to an end.
“In light of the reduced slack in the economy and firmer underlying inflation, some modest withdrawal of the present considerable monetary policy stimulus may become appropriate,” the bank said.
It said Canada’s economy and economies around the world are doing better than it had anticipated, pushing up inflation. The U.S. economy is recovering, and business and consumer confidence are improving faster than expected, it said, so it now expects that the economy will grow by 2.4 per cent in both 2012 and 2013.
“The degree of economic slack has been somewhat smaller than the Bank had anticipated in January, and the economy is now expected to return to full capacity in the first half of 2013,” it said.
The Bank of Canada’s overnight rate influences short-term borrowing costs and also longer-term borrowing, to a certain extent.
While the bank hasn’t tweaked the rate in close to a year and a half, bank governor Mark Carney has made it clear he is uncomfortable with the rate at such a low level. He has suggested that Canadians have grown too accustomed to low rates and have taken on too much household debt.
Household debt as a proportion of disposable income was close to 151 per cent at the end of last year. Carney has said he is worried many Canadians won’t be ready when interest rates move toward a more “normal” range — meaning between 2.5 and 3.5 per cent.
Paul Ferley, the assistant chief economist with RBC, says few observers expected the overnight rate to be altered.
“But what people were looking for was more how they characterized the economy. And on that front, it was a more upbeat assessment of the Canadian economy and the global environment,” he told CTV News Channel.
“Certainly, it was a more positive outlook for the Canadian economy, though not sufficiently so to alter the overnight rate.”
Ferley added that while the bank seemed to suggest that “their next move is going to be toward higher rates,” that may not be for some time yet.
“It’s nothing imminent; I mean they’re just flagging this possibility,” Ferley said.
“Our view though right now is that it’s probably going to be something in 2013 rather than rates going up this year.”
Read more of the original post here.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Associates at RE/MAX Little Oak Realty have donated more than $115,000.00 to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation over the years. The Foundation has used these funds to purchase equipment and comfort items such as computers, books, games and toys for the Children’s Ward at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
This year our donations will launch 2 exciting new programs:
RE/MAX Little Oak Realty’s Kids TV Program
RE/MAX Little Oak Realty’s W.I.T. Fund
Our Associates understand that it’s not enough to just list and sell homes; building a great neighborhood starts with caring. Supporting programs, organizations and individuals, that is what makes a difference in the lives around us.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
April showers not only bring May flowers. Now that spring is here, along with the rains that we experience here in the Fraser Valley it is important to check your home over for potential dangers of water trouble.
I found an excellent article over on Real Estate Information Systems that I’d like to share with you today. It’s smart and bang on! Take the time to read it to protect your home in ways that you may not have thought of before.
Click here for the entire post.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
PS Don’t forget about my Rewards Program! Click on the link on the right to see more about it! Chalk full of amazing deals for those that I’m blessed to work with!
Do you ever feel like you need just a little motivation to get the job done? Whether it be for your work or your health or your income or whatever it is, we all need a little encouragement along the way. Something that gets us out of a rut or moves us along to the next level.
Here are some great quotes that I found that I wanted to share with you in an effort to help motivate, and maybe even inspire, you towards taking the steps you need to take for achieving success! Success is something different to everybody, but that FEELING of ACHIEVING is the same!!
So here, I hope these help! 
“If you want to be as successful as you dream to be, you need to be thinking about your goals all the time.” – Michael Phelps, Olympic Gold Medalist
“There’s no better time than now to make the shift from doing ‘listing presentations’ to doing ‘listening consultations.’” – Bernice Ross, Inman Real Estate News
“Success is the progressive realization of worthwhile, predetermined, personal goals.” – Paul J. Meyer, Entrepreneur
“If you believe you can, you probably can. If you believe you won’t, you most assuredly won’t. Belief is the ignition switch that gets you started.” – Denis Waitley
“Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.” – Abraham Lincoln
“The answer is always ‘No’ if you don’t ask for the sale.” – Patricia Fripp, sales trainer
“Focus on what works and be willing to declare what doesn’t work. Embrace change.” – Larry Kendall, Ninja Selling
A child laughs an average of 300 times a day. An adult, 15. Let’s take a lesson from our children! – R. Don Larrance, President, Perry & Co.
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Come and Live at Ellwood Estates! Rancher Living at its finest!
Wonderful Location close to the up and coming new Mall, this wonderful home is a rancher at ground floor with bedrooms on opposite ends. It has a Formal Living Room and Dining Room, with a Family Room off the Kitchen. The South Facing Patio is bright and spacious. Complete with New Engineered flooring and carpet in Master Bedroom and Living Room, it is also freshly painted. The Spacious Laundry room allows for that much needed storage. Here is a list of other amenities: Clothes Washer/Dryer/Fridge/Stove/DW, Drapes/Window Coverings, Garage Door Opener.
Just move in and Enjoy! I would love to work with YOU!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Thinking about moving to Abbotsford? Here are some great visuals for you to take in!
“Whether your taste leans to bikes, hikes, golf, spa treatments, the performing arts or a look at the region’s history, Abbotsford has something for everyone.”
Each offers a different perspective on our fine “city in the country”! For more information on what Abbotsford offers, please visit this link.
Ready to move to Abbotsford? I’d love to work with you in finding the home of your dreams!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
Hey guys, I am having a Facebook Contest!! The prize will be drawn on July 20th, which, the way things have been going lately isn’t that far off!!
Facebook Contests are good for a number of reasons!
First, they’re just down right FUN!! And who doesn’t like to have fun!
Second, they promote a sense of community when everybody joins in for that fun!
Third, they are a great way to build up a sense of trust with those who are fans of your Facebook page!
Last, it is a fantastic method of building “your list”!
Now, for the details of this particular contest you’ll have to first click on the picture … which likely will be a HUGE CLUE as to what this contest is for!!
I’m really just giving something FUN away because I like you!
So, click THIS picture now …
I’m pretty sure you have a good idea what it’s about now! Enter, and let’s have some FUN with this!!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
The state of the housing market in the Fraser Valley remains to look good, with steady growth and lots of selection for those looking for that dream home, great investment or even development property.
Here is a portion of the April market update, courtesy of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (where you can read the article in its entirety).
In April, the Board added 7 per cent more new listings compared to one year ago, 3,134 in contrast to 2,918 in April 2011, pushing the number of properties for sale in the Fraser Valley to 10,312, the highest level since July 2010.
Scott Olson, President of the Board, says “To put it in perspective, in the last decade, April 2012 ranked second lowest for sales during that month, while new listings came in at the third highest, meaning it’s a good time to be shopping for a home in the Fraser Valley because selection has only been this extensive twice.
“When you combine modest sales with normal, seasonal increases in listings it helps keep house prices in check, which is what we’re seeing. Benchmark prices for all property types remain essentially unchanged from March and for townhomes and apartments, they’re on par with what they were one year ago.”
I would love to work with you to help get you exactly what you’re looking for!
“Your Personal Real Estate Consultant For Life”
