Susanlanghomes
260 Lakeshore Road East L6J1J1 Oakville, ON, Canada

SHOULD YOU WORRY ABOUT MARKET FLUCTUATIONS? You turn on the television and watch a news story about housing prices going down. Then you read an article about the housing market on the upswing again. It’s a little like being on a roller-coaster ride!... Unfortunately, the ride isn’t much fun if you’re thinking of buying or selling a home. In fact, it can be very confusing and frustrating. You just don’t know if now is the right time to make a move. In reality, the housing market has been fluctuating for decades. Yet, people sell their homes every day for good prices, and just as many people get into their next dream home affordably. When you hear news of market fluctuations, there are two important things to consider. First, a lot of media information about the housing market is national, or at least regional. If the housing market is trending up or down nationally, remember that it doesn’t necessarily mean that your LOCAL market is doing the same. In fact, it’s entirely possible for housing prices to be rising in your neighbourhood, while they are falling nationally, and vice versa. Second, if you’re selling your current property while buying another home, then the net effect of market fluctuations may cancel out. Say, for example, that the local market is on the upswing. You’ll probably be able to sell your current home for a good price. However, the home you purchase will likely also be priced to reflect the upswing. The same holds true when the market is down. All that being said, there are some circumstances in which you need to consider market fluctuations when deciding whether or not to make a move. Call today for more information.

CAN NEW APPLIANCES INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME? Next to a major kitchen renovation, replacing appliances is the most expensive way to upgrade the space. S...o, if you’re purchasing a new refrigerator, stove or dishwasher in order to make your home more attractive to buyers, you want to make wise purchasing decisions. The most important consideration is how the appliances will look in the kitchen. Ideally, they should match in colour and style. They should also be the right size for the space. The last thing you want is a fridge that’s so large it dominates the room, or a stove that’s a completely different style and looks out-of-place. Appearance is important, but so are the features. Buyers viewing your home will scrutinize the appliances. They’ll notice if the fridge has a cold water and ice dispenser. They’ll ask if the dishwasher has noise-reduction features. Double ovens and quick-heating burners (which are now available on electric stoves) will also get a buyer’s attention. Power consumption is also a big issue these days. Increasingly, buyers are interested in the energy efficient features of a home - appliances included. Kitchen appliances may seem minor compared to the overall appeal of your property, but they do make a difference. Purchase wisely!

4 HOME HAZARDS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT You have smoke detectors. Your doors have good locks. The bathtub has a slip-free pad. By all accounts, your home is a safe and secure place for your family to live.... However, there are some hazards that many homeowners don’t consider or even know about. For instance: 1. Blocked eavestroughs. Eavestroughs clogged with leaves and other debris can cause rainwater to overflow next to your foundation and create a leak. 2. Clogged dryer vents. High temperature air combined with lint is an ideal condition for a fire. Check and clear the dryer vent at least once a year. 3. Dirty faucet heads. Kitchen and bath faucets often have built-in screens to spray the water evenly. Unfortunately, dirt and other contaminates can build up on these and possibly affect the quality of the water. Clean faucet heads regularly. 4. Tripping hazards. You could step around a loose section of carpet for years and then one day, in a moment of distraction, trip over it and fall. When you see a potential tripping hazard in your home, don’t ignore it. Fix it. Being diligent about home safety takes a little bit of time. But, if it prevents one injury or illness, it’s worth the effort.

WHEN YOU ARE GRATEFUL, ABUNDANCE APPEARS

A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF SELLING YOUR HOME If you haven’t sold a home before, the process can seem complex and even intimidating. It really isn’t. In fact, the steps to selling your property - quickly and for the best price - are straightforward, although not necessarily easy.... Here’s a bird’s-eye view of the steps to expect: Determine what your property will likely sell for on today’s market. This is referred to as the Current Market Value. Decide on a list price. Doing this properly is crucial. If you set the price too high, you’ll discourage buyers from seeing your home. On the other hand, if the price is too low, you may be leaving thousands of dollars on the table. Prepare your home for sale. This involves cleaning, de-cluttering, fixing and staging so that your property wows potential buyers. Market and promote the property to the marketplace. This needs to be done effectively to maximize the number of qualified buyers who find out about and become interested in your listing. Show your property to buyers interested in seeing it. Negotiate offers effectively so that you sell your property for the best price and conditions. Make a deal and begin the transaction paperwork! Of course, you don’t have to do it all alone! As your real estate sales associate, I will do most of the heavy-lifting for you. I’ll be by your side throughout the process, helping ensure your home sale is trouble-free and successful.

WORRIED YOU WON'T FIND THE HOME YOU WANT! If you’re thinking of selling your home, you may be concerned that you won’t be able to find the kind of property yo...u’re looking to buy. There are a couple of things to consider: Think about the last time you purchased a car. You probably had a price range in mind and a general idea of the kind of vehicle you wanted. After visiting a few dealerships - or shopping online - you probably discovered seven or eight models that fit your criteria. Even with that limited selection, you were likely able to pick one that was right for you. In the real estate market, there are probably dozens of properties available that meet many or all of your criteria. So, the odds are in your favour that you’ll find a property you love. New properties come on the market all the time. As your real estate sales associate, I will keep an eye out on your behalf and quickly alert you to new listings that match your needs and wishes. Is it possible that you still won’t find a home that’s absolutely perfect for you in every way? Yes it is. However, there is an excellent chance you’ll get into a property that has everything you need and most, if not all, of what you want. That's encouraging and exciting!

LOW COST STORAGE IDEAS

Value added STAGING is one of the best investments prior to putting your home on the market.

SELECTING THE RIGHT MOVER The last thing you want on moving day is a problem with the moving company. Ideally, you want them to show up on time, handle your p...ossessions with care, and act professionally. Here are some tips that will help you choose the best mover for your needs. Get a recommendation from someone you trust. That could be a friend, family member or colleague. As your real estate agent, I can also recommend some reputable movers. Get everything in writing. Make sure you understand exactly what you’ll be paying. Ask about circumstances where extra charges may be applied. Ask if the moving company is certified. Reputable moving companies are fully insured. Ask to see the company’s certificate of insurance or some other proof of coverage. Avoid part-time movers who work weekends. Usually, they’re not professionals. You may save some money, but you’ll be taking a risk. Have questions about making your moving day go smoothly? Call today. See more

THE ABC'S OF FIRE SAFETY When it comes to home fire safety, a little preparation and precaution go a long way toward ensuring your family, your home, and you...r valuables are protected. Consider the following important information about preventing, fighting and escaping residential fires. Fires and Fire Extinguishers Fires are classified into different types, depending on the material burning. Fire extinguishers are similarly classified according to the type of burning materials they are designed to extinguish: A type for paper, wood and natural fabric; B type for grease, oil and combustible fuels; and C type for electrical fires. Since residential fires can involve any type of material, every home should have at least one multi-purpose ABC fire extinguisher that is easy to use. In addition, if you store chemicals, you should have an extinguisher designed for that specific chemical in order to ensure that no adverse reaction is caused by the mixture of the burning chemical with the fire extinguisher solution. For example, a poisonous gas is produced when chlorine comes in contact with ammonia, yet ammonia is found in most Class A extinguishers. Remember that your fire extinguishers should be positioned near (but not too close to) cooking areas, fireplaces and other likely sources of fire, and should be inspected and/or replaced according to safety guidelines. Smoke Detectors There should be at least one smoke detector on every floor of your home, as well as outside each bedroom in larger homes. If any resident is hearing-impaired, consider strobe-light alarms. To avoid false alarms, only use smoke detectors designed for specific areas. For example, ionization types are best for bedroom areas, and less sensitive photo-electric detectors are better for the kitchen. Some building and safety codes require hard-wired detectors that are permanently connected to AC power, with back-up battery power. Keep all smoke detectors dust-free, and don’t paint them. Remember to test and replace the batteries regularly, and note the units’ expiry dates. Security Precautions, Prevention and Protection It is wise to do whatever you can to protect your family and valuables by preventing fires, rather than only reacting to them. For instance, experts urge all homeowners to discourage smoking indoors, especially in bedrooms, and to be wary of purchasing flammable fabrics and furnishings, or unsafe, unapproved building materials. It’s also recommended that you ensure that your priceless valuables and critical financial records are kept in a fire-proof safe, preferably away from home, or that you keep copies of critical documents elsewhere. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A DESIRABLE STREET Sometimes you know a desirable street when you see one. ... What are some of the characteristics of a desirable street? SIDEWALKS. A sidewalk in front of your home is not only handy, it also adds to the property’s curb appeal. In addition, if you have kids, a sidewalk makes it easier - and safer - for them to play and visit neighbourhood friends. MATURE TREES. Trees lining the street add depth and beauty. SAFETY. Clearly, homeowners appreciate a street that’s known for being safe and located in a neighbourhood with a low crime rate. PRIDE-OF-OWNERSHIP. Do homeowners take good care of their properties? If so, that sign of pride-of-ownership indicates it’s a great place to own a home. LOCATION. Where the street is located is just as important as its characteristics. Are things you want, such as parks, schools, shopping, etc. nearby? Is the street in a desirable area overall? NOISE. If the street is in a flight path, or near a busy highway used by rush-hour commuters, you want to know! A great street can dramatically add to the enjoyment of a home. As your real estate agent, I can answer your questions about the characteristics of streets you’re considering and the surrounding area.

Make sure you are financially prepared for the expenses on Closing Day. Here is a quick guide so there are no surprises!

After all the negative chatter about the industry being in a downslump this year, The Oakville, Milton and District Real Estate Board have released their 2018 y...ear-to-date sales figures, and they paint a very different picture... #NumbersDontLie #realestate #oakville #burlington #hamilton #mississauga #mls #century21 #deborahsells

Stat Stories A look at the average GTA sale price for detached homes, condos, townhouses, and semi-detached homes, as well as Sales Activity and Active Listings for the month of August 2018 vs. 2017 Prices seem to be on the rise.

This photo was taken by photographer Nicholas Stiles. Fire crews cooling off fighting Parry Sound 33 There are no words to express our gratitude to these exhausted men and women and their tireless efforts except Thank You and Be Safe!

Investment Wisdom

TREB's July 2018 Home Stats for Mississauga & Oakville Just Released! View More: http://bit.ly/2OC5kIm . . . #TREB #MarketWatch #MarketReport #HomeStats #July2018

Rent or buy? Here's a breakdown by neighbourhood. http://bit.ly/2JSeMnv

This designer makes furniture that you can put away.

Welcome to your new home: 59 Skipper Lane, Oakville $1,648,888... Don't miss this Immaculately well maintained and cared for 2 storey, 4+1 bedroom Family Home, with almost 4500 square feet of total living space. This great home offers beautiful finishes, a Wood Fireplace in the Family Room, Pot Lights, Granite Countertops, Hardwood Flooring, and Main Floor Laundry. The main floor includes a large eat in kitchen which opens to the family room and backyard deck. A separate formal living and formal dining room round out the main floor. A Master Retreat offers a Large bathtub, Custom Glass Shower, and a Vanity with a Double Sink. The newly, totally renovated Lower Level has a Home Theatre Room, Large Recreation Area, a Bedroom, and a 3 piece bathroom perfect for a Nanny or In-Law suite. Call now for a personal viewing: 905-844-5000

Home buyers are starting to move back into the market. http://bit.ly/2lXJUIO

RECOGNIZING POTENTIAL MAJOR EXPENSES BEFORE PURCHASING A HOME When you see a new home you like on the market, it’s easy to get distracted by all the features you love - the wrap-around backyard deck or the spacious recreation room that has plenty of space for entertaining. You just need to make sure that in all your excitement you don’t overlook any expensive maintenance issues that could be just around the corner.... Nothing lasts forever. The major components of every home - from the furnace to the roof shingles - need to be replaced eventually. But, knowing when those maintenance issues are likely to arise can help you make a smarter decision about the home you’re considering. How do you do that? When viewing the property, ask for the age of the major components of the home, such as the roof shingles, furnace, air conditioner, water heater, and appliances. You might think the roof shingles look merely weathered in spots and have years of service left when in fact, they’re due to be replaced next year. Also pay close attention to the backyard deck, fencing, flooring, and windows. Do any of those components look aged, worn, and in need of repair or replacement sometime soon? Finally, don’t forget to check the kitchen and bathrooms. Sinks, faucets, bathtubs, showers, and cabinetry have a life-span of about 10-15 years. Of course, there are things you can’t see on your own, such as wiring, plumbing, venting, and other components of a property that may require maintenance. That’s why you should always make any offer to purchase a home conditional on passing an inspection by a qualified home inspector. Want more ideas on how to buy the right home? Call today: 905-510-1089

Judgements Buyers Make in the First 30 Seconds You’ve probably heard the expression, You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. When it comes to selling your home, that is definitely true. In fact, a buyer will come to several conclusions about your property within the first few minutes of seeing it. That’s why it’s so important to make a good first impression. How do you do that?... One of the best techniques is to pretend you’re a buyer. Drive up to your home. Open the door. Step into the foyer. Take a quick look around. Then ask yourself, What impressions am I getting from this property so far? What stands out? What impresses me? What concerns me? Of course, you want to get a sense that the home is attractive, spacious, and clean. You want to emphasize the enticing features, while minimizing the less desirable qualities. There are many great tricks that can help. For example, if your foyer is small, eliminate furniture and other items in that area in order to make it look a bit more spacious. If you have a fantastic kitchen, show it off to the buyer. Make sure the appliances sparkle. Set the table with your best dishware. Make it look like a showcase in a kitchen store. You want the buyer to see it and say, Wow. Buyers make judgements about your home very quickly. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a buyer to make a comment about your property, like - I love the high ceilings - within the first few seconds of coming in the door. Don’t underestimate the importance of that first impression. Of course, serious buyers will scrutinize your property more closely, especially if they have an initial interest. What you want to do is to make sure to peak that initial interest. Want the latest tips in showing your home effectively, so it sells quickly? Call today. 905-510-1089

The Climate Reality Project...

Most professionals claim to have exceptional after-sales service. When it comes to service, I prefer to let my actions speak for themselves. You see, I build my business primarily on repeat business and referrals. Taking care of your real estate needs before, during and especially in the months and years after a transaction is extremely important to me.... That’s why I make myself available to you anytime you have a real estate related question or need a recommendation. So, if there’s anything more I can do to help maximize the enjoyment of your home - whether you decide to make a move or continue living where you are now - please give me a call. Susan Lang Relationships Built on Trust and Respect

Trending Kitchen Renos

Make Your House Picture Perfect For Buyers When you walk into a nice hotel room, what do you usually notice first? It may be the large, often beautiful pictu...re hanging above the bed. You’ll probably find a smaller, equally attractive picture hanging in the bathroom. Often there will be at least two more adorning other walls. That’s no accident. Hotels know that pictures are the simplest, surest way to make a good-looking room look great. The same thing holds true when preparing your house for sale. According to home staging experts, hanging a few quality pictures can transform the look of just about any room - even a washroom! Chances are, you already have pictures hanging in your home. Do you need more? That depends. If you have a room that seems dull, and there is open and empty wall space, try adding a picture. You don’t have to buy one or hang one - just have someone hold up an existing picture. If the look of the room improves, consider adding a picture in that spot. Pictures don’t have to be expensive; they just need to be of good quality. Many retailers sell good-looking, nicely-framed pictures at affordable prices.

What you can expect in a home staging consultation?

Important Considerations Prior To Building An Addition

THE EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENT Most real estate experts agree that being too emotionally attached to your home can lead to poor decision making, such as over-pricing the listing and making hasty choices based on feelings rather than facts. Of course, removing emotion from the home selling equation is easier said than done. After all, it is your home. It’s only natural to be emotionally connected to it. So, how do you ensure that emotions don’t get in the way of selling your house q...uickly and for the best price? Here are some strategies: Think of selling your property as a business transaction only. Focus your emotions on the new home you’ll be moving into soon. Stow as many personal items as possible, such as trophies and family pictures. Turn your home into an attractive product. If a buyer makes a negative comment about your property - I hate the deck colour. - don’t take it personally. Avoid judging offers to buy your house based on whether or not you like the buyer. Finally, whenever you make a decision during the home selling process, ask yourself: Am I making this decision based on fact or emotion? If the answer is fact then, chances are, you’re on solid footing.

It just makes sense when you do the math.

How To Deal With Competing Offers Ideally, you want to be the only buyer who makes an offer on a particular property. That way, assuming your price is acceptable to the seller, you’re almost certain to close the deal. But, it doesn’t always work out that way. In the case of highly desirable homes, it’s very common for there to be competing offers.... So, what do you do if there’s a competing offer on a home you really want? First, don’t panic. Just because there are other buyers interested in the property doesn’t mean you won’t get it. There are many factors that influence a seller’s decision to choose one offer over another. For example, sellers are generally skeptical of offers from buyers who do not have a pre-approved mortgage, or have not yet put their own home on the market. Conditional offers based on these factors are often a red flag. Most sellers will readily accept an offer conditional on a satisfactory home inspection. However, if there are other more stringent conditions - such as an offer conditional on the buyer selling his own home for a particular price, or an offer conditional on arranging satisfactory financing - many sellers will be reluctant to accept the offer. Of course, it isn’t always possible to avoid including these kinds of conditions. That doesn’t mean you won’t get the home. A solid presentation of the offer along with my skilled negotiation can make all the difference.

This is a unique look that will add value to a home.

Want to list your home for sale? Here are tips to help get you started.

Are you wanting to upgrade your home prior to putting it on the market. This is helpful information for those who do.

Lovely new listing

Recreational property ownership considerations to keep in mind.

The arrival of March traditionally brings lots of new real estate activity to markets all across the country. This is the time of year when families are most likely to purchase a new property so they can ensure an easier relocation during the summer. As a result, almost every community will see an influx of buyers looking for new homes. If you are wondering about taking advantage of this market or you happen to know someone who is, give me a call. I can help navigate this yea...r’s spring market, and ensure any purchase and/or sale goes smoothly. Susan Lang Relationships Built on Trust and Respect

Great advice for First Home Buyers.

Amazing new indoor playground opening soon.

Some great ideas that will inspire you to get creative.

Follow these rules to make the best impression on prospective buyers.