You've bought the home, now you need to take care of it. Home ownership is an investment, and can easily depreciate if not taken care of. Learn more about seasonal responsibilities, and the little things that go a long way in maintaining your home. 

The Unknown Parts of Owning an Edmonton Condo

Purchasing a condo in Edmonton can seem like the perfect solution, whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an investor exploring opportunities. From hassle-free maintenance to amenity-rich living, condos appear to be the ideal compromise between affordability and convenience.

But beneath the allure of modern living lies a maze of lesser-known financial responsibilities, governance structures, and lifestyle considerations that can catch new owners off guard. This post unpacks the hidden aspects of owning an Edmonton condo, ensuring you're fully prepared for what lies ahead.

Financial Considerations Beyond the Mortgage

Owning a condo involves more than just making a monthly mortgage payment. Here…

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Attic Rain 101: How to Identify and Address This Seasonal Problem

When Edmonton winter takes hold, many homeowners unknowingly fall victim to attic rain, a pesky issue that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. But what exactly is attic rain? Why does it occur, and most importantly, how can you prevent it? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about attic rain, from spotting early signs to taking preventive measures that protect your home.

What is Attic Rain?

Attic rain occurs when moisture from your home rises into the attic, freezes, and then later melts when temperatures warm up. The resulting water can drip onto your attic's surfaces, potentially causing water damage, mold growth, and insulation problems.…

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Budget Breakdown for Buying a $500K Home in Edmonton

Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, but it also comes with expenses that can feel overwhelming if you’re unprepared. If you’re eyeing a $500K home in Edmonton, knowing what additional costs to expect can help you confidently budget for your purchase. From property taxes to maintenance, this guide outlines the key financial factors to keep in mind and ensure you're fully prepared.

What You’ll Learn:

  • A breakdown of essential expenses when buying a $500K home in Edmonton
  • Budgeting tips for property taxes, closing costs, home insurance, and repairs

Property Taxes in Edmonton

One of the largest ongoing costs of homeownership is property taxes. These taxes are used to fund…

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Why A Final Walk-Through Is Crucial Before Taking Possession of Your Edmonton Home

Buying a home in Edmonton is a monumental step, one that comes with equal parts excitement and responsibility. Once you’ve selected your dream home, the offer is signed, and the paperwork is finalized, it might feel like the hard part is over. However, one crucial step remains—the final walk-through. This often-overlooked process can save homebuyers from unexpected surprises and ensure a smooth transition into their new space.

We will guide you through the importance of conducting a thorough final walk-through, share real-life stories, and provide essential tips for a stress-free experience.

The Value of a Final Walk-Through Before Buying Your Home

At its…

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What the 2025 Property Tax Increase Means for Edmonton Homeowners (And What You Can Do)

The cost of homeownership in Edmonton is rising—and not just through mortgage hikes or inflation. The City of Edmonton has recently announced a 6.1% property tax hike for 2025, which is set to impact homeowners and real estate investors across the region. But what exactly does this mean for your property taxes, and how can you prepare?

This blog explores the latest property tax increase in Edmonton, breaking down its implications, real-world examples, and strategies to help residents manage the financial impact. Whether you're a homeowner or a property investor, understanding the full scope of changes is essential for staying ahead.

The Property Tax Hike in…

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Discover New Possibilities for Your Mortgage Renewal

Navigating the world of mortgages can be like solving a complex puzzle. For many homeowners, the mortgage renewal process is an opportunity to reassess their financial commitments and potentially improve their terms. I don't know if you have hear but one significant hurdle that has been removed on this path is the requirement for a stress test when switching lenders during renewal. This change opens up a world of possibilities for homeowners looking to find the best mortgage rates and conditions.

Understanding Mortgage Stress Tests

Mortgage stress tests have been a critical component of Canada's housing market regulations. These tests are designed to ensure that homeowners can manage their…

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Navigating Real Estate Challenges During Divorce for a Smoother Transition

Divorce is often a tumultuous time, blending emotional upheaval with practical challenges. One particularly intricate aspect is handling jointly owned real estate. Whether it's the family home or investment properties, real estate can present both challenges and opportunities. Understanding the complexities involved can help divorcing couples make informed decisions that serve their best interests.

In this blog post, we'll explore how divorce impacts real estate, outline strategies for managing joint property, and provide guidance for navigating the legal and emotional landscape. Our goal is to offer practical advice that helps you handle your real estate concerns with…

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Use The Full Power Of Your Mortgage

As real estate agents, we are always on the lookout for financial tools that can benefit our clients. That's why today we want to discuss a product that is not only beneficial but also highly flexible - the Re-advanceable Mortgage, also known as a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or a Re-advanceable Equity Line of Credit (RELOC).

Here are some of the pros and cons of a Readvanceable Mortgage that we believe are important for you, as a homeowner or potential homeowner, to consider.

Pros:

  1. Revolving Credit Facility: Readvanceable mortgage allows you to access a revolving line of credit as you make your regular mortgage payments. As you pay down your mortgage, your line of credit limit increases,…

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Winter Prep: for Homeowners in Edmonton

Winter is coming, and preparing your home beforehand can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. If you're a homeowner, especially a new one, this quick blog will help you tackle the essential tasks to get your house winter-ready.

The First Thing You Should Do to Get Your Edmonton Home Ready for Winter

1. Drain and Turn Off Outside Water Spouts

Why is it important?

One of the first things you should do as part of your winter prep routine is to drain and turn off outside water spouts. This simple task can prevent water from freezing in your pipes, which can lead to bursting and costly repairs.

How to do it?

  • Locate your outdoor spigots.
  • Disconnect any hoses attached to the spouts.
  • …

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Common Issues That Can Lower a Home Appraisal in Edmonton, Alberta

Whether you're a homeowner looking to sell or a real estate investor aiming to maximize your property's value, understanding the factors that can negatively impact a home appraisal is crucial. In Edmonton, Alberta, several common issues could potentially lower your home's appraised value. Let's explore these issues and provide some practical tips on how to address them.

Poor Maintenance and Visible Damage

One of the most significant factors that can lower a home appraisal is poor maintenance and visible damage. Cracked foundations, leaky roofs, and peeling paint are immediate red flags for appraisers. These issues not only indicate that the property hasn't been well cared for, but…

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