Dec 16, 2016 | Around the Wine Capital
Looking for something to do? Here’s a list of some fun and exciting things happening around town!
Nov 25-Jan 4
The Festival of Trees
The Festival is open to the public who are invited to browse through the holiday displays and enjoy the holiday splendor.
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Dec 16, 2016
Holiday on Ice
Join us for the Winter Carnival as we celebrate our star skaters through holiday musical selections!
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Dec 17, 2016
Winter Wonderland Family Skate
Come celebrate the countdown to the big day and see the Oliver Arena transformed into a Winter Wonderland on ice!
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Dec 20, 2016
Communal Table Dinner at Miradoro
The Communal Table brings together locals and visitors to celebrate regional food and wine…
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Dec 21, 2016
Zumba Party!
THREE ZUMBA instructors – All proceeds will be donated to the Oliver Food Bank.
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Dec 24, 2016
Christmas Eve Dinner at Miradoro
A delightful menu dreamed up for a special Christmas Eve dinner…
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Dec 7, 2016 | Real Estate 101
No matter how much you love your current property, you may be dreaming of the day you can buy up into a better home in a better neighbourhood.
Is that day today, or, is it a few years down the road?
Here’s a quick way to make that assessment.
First, make a list of all the practical reasons why it might be time to move up. Those reasons might include features such as: more bedrooms, proximity to work and school, a larger backyard with trees, nearby parks and walking paths and better access to things you enjoy like theatre.
Next, make a list of the emotional reasons for making such a move. Those reasons might include memorable get-togethers with friends on a more spacious deck, an easier and less stressful commute to work, more family time with the kids and enjoyable Saturday golf at a nearby course.
Finally, take a financial snapshot to determine if you can afford to move up. You’ll need to get a good idea of what your current property will sell for in today’s market, average price of homes in your desired neighbourhood, and how much mortgage you’ll need.
Once you have all that down on paper, you’ll have a clear picture of your readiness. If the practical and emotional reasons for buying up are compelling, and you can afford to make the move, then you have your answer.
The time is now!
By the way, if you need help in making this determination – especially figuring out what your home will likely sell for, contact me today.
Nov 3, 2016 | Real Estate 101
Should you hire a professional?
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When it comes to updating their living space, some homeowners enjoy doing the research and then planning, designing and decorating on their own. Many believe they will save a substantial amount of money. That may be true. But they may also be doing themselves a disservice by overlooking the benefits of hiring an interior designer and/or an interior decorator.
What’s the difference between the two? An interior designer creates and maximizes the functional living space. An interior decorator will furnish and adorn a home or room for aesthetic appeal.
While homeowners may seek inspiration from magazines and websites, designers and decorators know how to adapt those concepts to the available space. They can also ensure that their suggestions and recommendations are practical and attainable. They can take advantage of the latest products and systems available. In addition, they can offer the added benefit of applying rebates and discounts from manufacturers, importers and trade showrooms – which the average consumer simply can’t get. Those discounts may even help offset the cost of the professional fees.
But, perhaps the greatest benefit of hiring professionals is the peace of mind that comes from knowing they can save you a great deal of time, especially if you have too many ideas, or none at all.
Oct 21, 2016 | Real Estate 101
When would you talk to a car salesperson? Probably only once you’re ready to buy a new car. You would do some initial research (perhaps on the internet), get an idea of what you want, and then go to the dealership to meet a salesperson, test drive the car and make the purchase.
Although that approach may work when you’re buying a car, it’s not the best approach when it comes to real estate.
You see, successfully buying or selling a home requires a lot of planning and legwork. You want the process to go smoothly, the right decisions to be made, and the best possible deal to be negotiated.
After all, this is the purchase and/or sale of your home!
So, the best time to talk to a REALTOR® is as early in the process as possible.
In fact, even if you’re just thinking of buying or selling — and simply want to explore the possibility of making a move sometime this year — you should have a conversation with a good REALTOR®.
A REALTOR® will answer your questions and provide you with the information and insights you need. They will help you avoid costly mistakes, and make sure you’re heading in the right direction.
When you are ready to buy or sell, having worked with a REALTOR® early in the process will help ensure you get what you want.
So talk to a good REALTOR® when:
- You have a question about the local market.
- You want to know what your home might sell for today.
- You’re interested in checking out homes currently available on the market.
- You’re in the midst of deciding whether or not to make a move.
- You’ve decided to buy or sell.
Getting a good REALTOR® on your side early in the game makes everything a lot easier for you. So don’t hesitate to call me today to answer your Real Estate questions!
Oct 14, 2016 | Homeowners
Many homeowners think there’s not much they can do about telephone, heating, water and other utility expenses. Sure, you may grumble about a high heating bill one month, but what can you do about it? Turns out, you can do plenty. There are several ways to reduce monthly utility costs that can save you tens or even hundreds of dollars.
For example:
- Shop around for a better phone plan. Then contact your phone company. They might match the rates.
- Turn down the thermostat on your water heater. You likely don’t need tap water to be that hot.
- Clean the screen on your outside air conditioning unit regularly. (Gently with the water hose.) Dirt and leaves can build up on it, reducing the unit’s efficiency.
- Leverage the sun. Open curtains in the winter to gain heat. Block direct sunlight in summer to keep the cool air inside.
- Scrutinize your bill. There may be extras you’re paying for that you don’t need.
- Play with the thermostat. Experiment with setting the temperature a couple of degrees lower. You might not notice any difference.
It’s worth paying attention to your utility costs. Just a few smart moves can save you some serious money
