Best Halifax Parks for You and Your Dog!

Hey everyone, it’s Chewy here. I am the CBO(Chief Barketing Officer) for Andrew Perkins Real Estate.  I wanted to tell you all about my favourite places to walk in Halifax.  My top five are the ones that I frequent all the time with my mom and uncle Andrew.  The last few are ones that I haven’t tried yet, but my doggie friends have told me they are great. If they are on this list, I am sure my mom will get me there soon.  

Let’s dig into my top 12!

[Pictured here is me and my mom!]

Point Pleasant Park

This is my number one park to go to.  I am the king of this park and all the other dogs know it.  My dog walker Tony takes me here most weekdays with his pack of dogs, and my uncle Andrew usually takes me on Wednesdays and or Fridays.  I love it here.  

A little bit about this park:  Point Pleasant Park is one of the most popular parks to go for stroll in Halifax. It is located on the Halifax Peninsula, in the South End. There are several off-leash areas, waterside trails, historic sites and wide-open areas to play fetch! I love to fetch my ball, and once I get it, you probably won’t get it back! There are some areas that are “on-leash” only, but I stay away from those. I like to roam free.  Always consult your park map before letting your pup run free. It is also good to note, that there are not a lot of freshwater spots along these trails, as Point Pleasant Park hugs the ocean. So, make sure to bring your dog some water for them to drink.  My parents always make sure they have water on hot summer days for me and I can’t thank them enough! 

Ashburn Golf Club

I live close to this golf course and I have to say it is awesome in the wintertime. There are so many wide-open spaces to run!

Ashburn Golf Course is a great place to bring your dog for a walk in the winter months. From December 15th until March 15th, this Members-only club opens its doors to the community’s dogs, allowing them to run free in the wide-open spaces that the club has to offer. There are some areas that they ask you not to tread on, but those are marked by being covered in tarps. Ashburn Golf Course is also located on the Halifax Peninsula.

Long Lake Provincial Park

My mom and her friend Natalie love to take me to this park on the weekends.   It’s usually packed with other doggies.  I love to sit by the water and chill out. 

This park is great for those hot summer days as there is a lot of water access. It is considered an on-leash park, however, I always see many pups roaming free. According to Dogventures, there have been owners ticketed here for off-leash pups, so do your moms and dads a favour and stay on your leash! There is a combination of dirt paths in the wooded areas, and newer trails that are wide and gravelled. A great park all around!

Duncan’s Cove

There is nothing better than feeling that fresh ocean breeze on my face.  My mom loves to take me here on the weekends.  It’s an amazing walk and I am always tuckered out after walking here. 

This hike is only for agile dogs like myself. It is a bit rugged, and there are some steep hills. If you are like me, and like a good challenge, check out Duncan’s Cove. There are beautiful views of the ocean, and cool war bunkers to check out! There are also areas with wide-open spaces great for showing off your speed. This hike will make you really feel like you are out of the city, and one with nature!

Halifax Common

My uncle Andrew lives close to the Commons and he takes me here when he doesn’t have time to take me to Point Pleasant Park.  We run around for a bit and then sit and bask in the sun and people watch. There are so many other doggies walking around that I can play and socialize with, although I am a little picky on who I play with...

The Halifax Common is the definition of an urban park. Situated in Downtown Halifax, the wide-open fields invite many downtown residents to read a book, play frisbee, or even better, bring their pups. There are tennis courts, baseball diamonds, a splash pad, a swimming pool, a playground and more! Did you know that the Halifax Common is Canada’s oldest Urban Park?

Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park

This is one of my favourite beaches ever. The white sand is always warm on my paws, and the clear water is great for splashing in. I like to burn my energy by hiking these fun trails with my mom!

Crystal Crescent Beach is located about 30 minutes outside of Central Halifax. The trails are on-leash but have great views and Instagram worthy spots to take pictures of your furry friends. The main trails pass three beaches, and so you have been warned, the third beach often doubles as a nude beach. The second beach is the most dog friendly, and allows for off-leash play!

I like to stick close to home, which is the Halifax area, but here are some other awesome places that my doggie friends have told me are great!

Shubie Park

I haven’t spent a lot of time in this park but I have heard good things from my fellow dog friends.  Shubie Park makes the list for its large off-leash dog areas, kilometres of tree-covered trails and beach areas. There are a ton of different entrances to get into Shubie Park, and there are lots of signs that will help guide you to the off-leash areas. Shubie Park is similar in its dog-friendliness to Point Pleasant Park but is located in Dartmouth near Dartmouth Crossing. This park is well maintained by the Halifax municipality, and has some lake access for your dog to take a dip!

Dartmouth Common

Another Dartmouth Dog-Friendly Park that is often overlooked is the Dartmouth Common. I do not visit this park too often as it is not near my home. From what I have heard, the Dartmouth Common is located in Downtown Dartmouth and has wide and beautiful off-leash dog areas. The Common is perfect for the fall, or any time when the air is crisp. There is not any water access so you may want to consider skipping the common on a hot summer day. With over 10 blocks of walking trails, 300 acres in perimeter and many open fields, your dog is sure to have a great time! Legend has it, that if you and your dog make it to the top of the hill, you will see a breathtaking view of Downtown Halifax across the water. I’ll be asking my mom to take me here soon to see for myself!

Hemlock Ravine Park

Located in Bedford, Hemlock Ravine Park is another park in Halifax that allows off-leash dogs. The difference at this park is off-leash dogs are only permitted during certain times of the day, and you usually have to walk about 10 minutes with your dog on-leash to get to the off-leash area. There are a few hours in the morning and evening each day that allow your pup to run free. This Park is well maintained by the Halifax Regional Municipality and makes a great area for your dog to explore year-round. Many of the trails border the ravines too for some beautiful water scenery. Bedford doggies, remember this park next time your parents ask you to go for a walk!

Herring Cove Provincial Park

Herring Cove Provincial Park is a great area to bring your pup if you want to experience the beautiful Nova Scotia Coast. There are views of the Halifax Harbour from the parking lot, and the trails are a little rugged: perfect for those dogs who like a hike and have a little extra energy to burn off. Just be aware, the trails are dog-friendly, but the actual beach is not, so if you want to run in the waves, you will have to choose another one of the many Halifax beaches!

Polly Cove Park

Polly Cove offers the same stunning views as Peggy’s Cove but typically has a little more privacy. There are lots of wildflowers for your dog to explore, and birds your dog will enjoying watching with you. This park is on-leash only, so just be sure to keep your pup’s close by and leashed up! Make sure to check out the abandoned war bunkers while you are hiking through.

Sackville Lake Provincial Park

This provincial park has great lake access and lots of trails that wander in and out of the forest to keep the scenery dynamic for your excited pup! This park is maintained by the municipality and very accessible. This park is accessible all year round is dog friendly but leash-only. It is a local go-to for many dog owners in the Sackville Area! Check this one out in the fall for some beautiful Halifax fall colours.

These are all of my favourite parks! If you see me there, be sure to say hi!

Chewy Browne

Chief Barketing Officer

Weekend Projects to Increase Your Home's Value

When we hear the term “upgrade your home”, we often expect a large price tag to follow. This is not always the case. There are some quick and easy projects you can attempt in a weekend to make your home appear newer, and more appealing to potential buyers. If you are a homeowner, and not planning on selling, these upgrades will make your home feel brand new for you and your family. 

Paint the Cabinets

Installing brand-new cabinetry can be a serious expense. But, that doesn’t mean we have to live with old, faded or scuffed cabinets. Add a coat of paint to your cabinet doors this weekend to freshen up your kitchen space. Pair this with some new hardware, and your cabinets will look good as new. Our tip is, the harder the finish, the better: you want something that will be very easy to wipe down and clean.

Add a Seating Area Outside

Adding extra furniture usually makes space feel smaller, doesn’t it? Not necessarily. Adding a seating area outside will make your yard appear more inviting, thus larger, which can really up curb appeal. If you can, place your new seating area out of the sun so the furniture does not fade in colour or lustre.

Upgrade your fixtures

Opt for some modern fixtures such as black or brushed nickel finishes. Brushed faucets tend to hide fingerprints a grim a little better than polished ones. While you are at it, clean underneath the faucet before securing the new one so your sink looks brand new. Brass, nickel and bronze fixtures are known to withstand moisture and friction the longest. 

Add Outdoor Lighting

Add outdoor lighting that lines the pathway to your front door, or which highlights the garden to give your home a soft glow in the evening. Having this glow outdoors can be a security feature, can add a welcoming atmosphere to potential buyers and can add a level of comfort indoors. If you are going to add lighting outdoors, opt for some solar-powered garden lights to save on your energy bill, and to be eco-friendly.

Replace your doors

This option is obviously a bit more pricey than a coat of paint, however, if you have a little bit of extra money to spend, replace all of your inside doors, so they all match and are not scuffed nor dented. Choose a neutral colour other than white for a sophisticated, yet unique spin on your home decor. For an added level of cohesiveness, choose doorknobs that match your new faucets and hardware.

Use Smart Technology

Install keyless locks, wifi garage door openers, a video doorbell system or a smart thermostat. Buyers are eager for secure technology in their future homes, and to have these features already set up will not only make your life easier but will also make your home stand out among buyers when the time comes to sell. 

Will you be incorporating any of these upgrades into your weekend plans? Maybe you already have updated your homes in these ways before. If you have, let us know how it went!

Andrew Perkins

andrew@andrewperkins.co

902-488-0012

How to Save Money on Your Energy Bill

With the winter coming to an end, and with the extra time that we have all spent home this past year, many of us have seen an increase in our energy bills. It’s always a good idea to review your bills when you have some time and figure out how to reduce those expenses. When it comes to energy, there are so many quick fixes that you can do in your home that will reduce the amount of energy it takes to heat it.

1. Install a door sweep

Installing a door sweep to not only your entrance to your home but also to any doors that attach to a garage can trap a lot of potentially lost heat. Doors are a large area in which heat is lost, so this tip is a no brainer. Don’t forget to also weatherstrip any glass sliding doors.

2. Install a door on your fireplace. 

When you are not using your fireplace, a serious amount of heat can escape from the chimney. Adding a glass door that is tight fitted could aid in keeping the heat in. When you are not using the fireplace, simply shut the door.

3. Caulk those windows

Use silicone caulk to seal the outside of the window frames and weather-strip between the sash. Sealing the window frames can conserve heat as air typically leaks through these cracks. Caulking your windows will also make your home more durable to the elements. If this doesn’t seem to be enough, you may want to consider replacing single pane windows for double or triple pane, which can be up to 5 times more efficient at conserving energy. 

4. Install a programmable thermostat

We would be lying if we said we remembered to check the thermostat every night before bed. If you own a programmable thermostat, program it to lower 7 or 8 degrees for at least 8 hours a day - this will be probably when you are sleeping. This has been shown to cut heating costs by approximately 10 percent a year!

5. Downsize your cooking

Whenever you can avoid it, do not use your oven. Microwaves, toasters and toaster ovens function at a fraction of the energy cost of an oven. Try to make suppers in a crock or instant pot instead, which can be as delicious as an oven-baked meal. 

6. Take care of your dryer

The average person spends about 200$ a year on electricity just to use their dryer. Dryers typically use more energy when they are not cared for properly. If the vent is not clean, the lint screen is not clean or is there is debris under or around the dryer, it will not function efficiently and will use more energy to compensate. 

7. Switch out your shower head

Switch to a low-flow showerhead and reduce the time that you shower can save you over 100$ a year in energy costs. If you switch to a 2.5 gallon-per-minute shower head and only shower for 10 minutes, you could be saving 5 gallons of water each time, and that is 5 gallons less that needs to be heated

8. Add Motion Sensors/Smart Switches to lights

Installing smart switches will completely eliminate the loss of energy due to forgetting to turn off the lights after leaving a room or coming inside. Motion sensors on your porch lights outdoors also double as a great security feature as they will light up when anyone approaches, potentially warding off possible intruders.

9. Use your curtains to your advantage

Curtains are great at stabilizing indoor temperatures, as a lot of heat can escape through windows. In the winter, your curtains will aid in trapping heated air indoors, and prevent cold air from coming in. In the summer, those same curtains will keep your air-conditioned air within your home.

10. Switch your lightbulbs

Traditional light bulbs consume a lot of energy. Switch all of the light bulbs in your home to Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) or Light-Emitting Diode Bulbs (LEDs) to use 80% less energy. These newer types of bulbs also tend to last at least triple the length of time in comparison to older styles.

Our province has some great programs in place to help Nova Scotians save on electricity. For low-income families, check out the Home Warming Program to have energy-saving technology installed at no cost to you. For others, (even renters), check out Efficiency NS for some free upgrades to your space to save on your power bill.

Andrew Perkins

902-488-0012

andrew@andrewperkins.ca

9 Restaurants You Need to Try in Halifax!

Halifax has a very unique food scene: The majority of our local restaurants source local ingredients, incorporate our renowned seafood, and of course, feature donairs. Haligonians make enjoying local cuisine a hobby. With many food festivals, the Dine Nova Scotia Association, award-wining chefs and so many unique choices, Halifax is the food hub of Atlantic Canada.

Below we have curated a list of our favourite spots in no particular order to dine in Downtown Halifax!

The Bicycle Thief

The Bicycle Thief is an upscale Italian Fusion restaurant on the gorgeous Halifax Waterfront. Their menu choices range from fresh local seafood to three-course Italian dinners. The Bicycle Thief also features a legendary wine bar and a heated patio for those cold Halifax winters.

Visit Their Website Here

Ristorante a Mano

Ristorante a Mano is an upscale eatery that specializes in classic Italian meals. Situated on the Halifax Waterfront, it is a must-see. The ambience is exceptional, the service is fast and the food is delicious! The owners of a Mano also own the Bicycle Thief and La Frasca found on Spring Garden Road.

Visit Website Here

2 Doors Down Food + Wine

If you are looking for a crisp local beer, head to 2 Doors Down! 2 Doors Down is a casual urban bar and eatery that rotates its menu seasonally. Space is limited so book ahead to secure a seat: based on the quality of food and drink they will be booked solid most nights. They also have some great vegetarian options!

Visit Their Website Here

Elliot & Vine

Elliot & Vine is a European style restaurant with a modern twist in Halifax’s trendy North End. Their dine-in space has the perfect intimate atmosphere for a romantic night or drinks with friends after work. The food is exceptional, and if that isn’t enough,  their breathtaking murals created by artist Jean Bradbury inside are enough of a reason to stop by. 

Visit Their Website Here

Agricola Street Brasserie

Stop by the Agricola Street Brasserie to experience French-inspired seasonal cuisine and you will not be disappointed. Not only does the Brasserie serve exceptional diner with original flare, but they also have a killer brunch. We highly recommend trying the seafood here as they pledge to source all of their seafood sustainably!

 Visit Their Website Here

The Barrington - Steakhouse & Oyster Bar

You are guaranteed a delicious Atlantic steak if you order one from the Barrington. Aged and cut in house, their beef is cooked to perfection and typically served along with maritime oysters. Tourists and locals alike agree that dining at the Barrington is an experience to remember. This steakhouse and bar hosts local musicians for those who wish to be entertained while dining too!

Visit Their Website Here 

Blue Olive - Greek Taverna

If you are searching for authentic Greek cuisine in Halifax, the Blue Olive is where you should be heading. Their recipes are authentically greek and have been passed down for generations. The Blue Olive also has many vegetarian and vegan options that are absolutely delicious!

Visit Their Website Here 

Da Maurizio

Da Maurizio offers a premier dining experience on Halifax’s historic waterfront. Known for their exquisite variations on Italian cuisine, their award-winning menus will exceed all of your expectations. Their outstanding service (and wine list) has made Da Maurizio an all-time favourite for locals and tourists.

Visit Their Website Here

Will you be checking out any restaurants on our list in the near future? Halifax has so many delicious local restaurants to try, you are sure to land on something tasty on your next venture out!

Cheers, 

Andrew Perkins

Should you refinance your mortgage?

In 2020, we all spent a lot of time at home, and this has given a lot of us time to reconsider our financial situations. With the hit that the economy has taken due to the spread of COVID 19, it is important now more than ever to reduce your debt and curb your spending. Save your money and spend it wisely, like with investments that will pay off in the future.

Many have already realized this, which is why the real estate market has been booming. More and more buyers are eager to put their money into something that will reap rewards down the road. We can see from the Halifax real estate market statistics, that buying Halifax real estate will do just that.

This past year, mortgage rates in the area, and all over North America have dipped. This is not only a great opportunity for first-time home buyers but also for current homeowners, as there is always the option to refinance your mortgage. 

So instead of paying more than you need on interest for your mortgage, why not evaluate whether you are in the position to refinance for a lower interest rate?

Refinancing your mortgage means that you are breaking your mortgage to start a new one. This can be done with your current lender or even a new one. Before you jump in, it’s good to note that breaking a mortgage comes with a financial penalty. Always make sure that the savings that occur with refinancing are greater than the penalty.

The decision to refinance is a very personal one and takes into account many different factors. Let's dig into the factors that if applicable to you, would mean that refinancing is a good option.

The most obvious reason homeowners refinance is due to lower interest rates. An example that Investopedia gives states that if you took out a mortgage of $300,000 with a 6% interest rate, and that rate now can drop to 4.5%, you could save approximately 280$ on monthly payments.

If you are planning to own your home for a while, then refinancing would be a good option. If you are not, you may not end up saving money as you will need to pay a financial penalty for breaking your mortgage.

Homeowners also chose to refinance to access equity. When you refinance, the lender will offer you a loan of 80% of the appraised value of your home, less the debt you currently owe. This can mean extra cash for you to use for other investments, to consolidate debt, or to put towards a downpayment on a second property. If you are doing this, your mortgage monthly payments will increase based on the amount that you borrow.

Another reason that homeowners refinance is to switch their adjustable-rate mortgage to a secure fixed-rate. You may want to do this if your lender is offering historically low rates and you wish to lock in that rate for the remainder of your mortgage. No homeowner ever wants to see drastic increases in their monthly payments due to a spike in mortgage rates. There is always the potential for this to occur when you are locked into an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Homeowners may also want to refinance if their credit score has improved since they took out their first loan. If your credit score was not great when you first applied for your mortgage, the lender may have added a higher interest rate. If your credit score has increased since then, lenders will assume that you can pay back your loan more reliably, and thus you are less of a risk for them to take on as a client. This can score you some seriously lower interest rates! 

f you are in a situation where you would like your monthly mortgage payments to be lower than they currently are, refinancing may be for you. If there is not a lower mortgage rate to achieve this, you can refinance for a longer-term. You should know, extending your loan only makes sense if you desperately need to make lower payments. This will not save you money in the long term, as you will end up paying more in interest, but may help ease the burden in the meantime.

Things to remember when shopping around for refinancing options...

It's important to approach a few different lenders when thinking about refinancing, as each lender will offer a different rate. Like any big purchase, you want to ensure you know all of your options to score the best deal.

It may seem easiest to simply go online and use a free estimate generator. You should know, these are rarely accurate. In this way, you also have no control over where your information goes. We recommend always approaching lenders directly so that your information is secure, and you get the most accurate estimates to evaluate. 

You can also reach out to a mortgage broker, who will do most of the heavy lifting for you. Mortgage brokers are professionals who will compile information for you from multiple lenders to provide you with your best options. We always recommend Shawna Snair with Premiere Mortgage Centre to our clients!

The bottom line is, refinancing ultimately depends on your unique situation. A good rule of thumb is that if you're savings from a lower interest rate or better credit score outweighs the costs that will come with refinancing, then it is a good idea look into it. 

Experts are predicting that mortgage rates may begin to rise again midway through 2021, meaning there is no time like the present to consider refinancing.

Rate Hub does a great job at summarizing the pros and cons of refinancing in the chart below:

Table Source: Rate Hub: Mortgage Refinance. 2020

If you wish to chat more about mortgage tips, reach out!

Cheers, 

Andrew

902-488-0012

andrew@andrewperkins.ca

20 Year Review of the Halifax Real Estate Market

Over the past twenty years, we have seen some significant changes to the Halifax Real Estate Market. Our city has grown traction, undergone major developments, expanded its culture and has truly become the hub of Atlantic Canada.

Our population has steadily increased over the past two decades, totalling at approximately 412,674 residents today. In comparison to the rest of Atlantic Canada, our job forces have expanded like no other. In the past 5 years, young professionals have increasingly viewed Halifax as a home they could start a career and raise a family in. In previous times, most young professionals thought that to achieve this, they must relocate to Central or Western Canada.

These factors, along with the economic boost from recent increases in immigration have caused the changes we see in the average number of properties sold, and they're selling prices in the municipality.

The average number of properties sold each year in the past two decades is 5547 per year. When looking at the graph, above, we can see that there are very few years with less. Overall, the number of homes sold remains quite constant. In the past 5 years, there has been a sharper increase, which correlates with the increase in immigration, and young professionals flocking to Halifax.

The average sold price on Halifax properties has increased steadily year after year. There has been no decrease in average selling prices, only a couple of near-plateaus. This means that on average, Real Estate investments in Halifax will reap rewards rather than losses.

We have seen an even sharper increase in sold prices within the past two years and this trend is not likely to stop anytime soon. With such limited inventory in Halifax, prices will continue to rise, and any properties that hit the market have high chances of selling quickly.

There is no time like the present to sell your Halifax property. These statistics prove this. Reach out to us today if you would like more information on scoring top dollar for your Real Estate investment, condo, or family home.

Cheers to the new year,

Andrew 
andrew@andrewperkins.ca
902-488-0012

Halifax Sellers: What to Know When Preparing for Viewings

When your Halifax home is on the market, there is potential that many eyes will be peering in. You will of likely had professional photos taken, and a home staging completed. This kind of marketing will highlight all of your home’s best features, and you will want to keep your home up to those picture-perfect standards when curious buyers see the home in person. 

The most obvious step in preparing your home for viewings is to do a deep clean. While most understand this, they tend to overlook the fact that this deep clean must be maintained for the duration of their listing. 

There are several things that you can do to make it easier on yourself to maintain a high level of order and cleanliness while your Halifax home is for sale. Read through for some tips on how to set yourself up for successful home viewings!

Deep Clean

We all know that a house that is about to hit the Halifax market needs a deep cleaning. You are going to want to ensure that everything sparkles. The obvious areas are the windows, countertops, baseboards, floors, mirrors, surfaces, bathtub and toilet. Areas that are sometimes forgotten are the trash bin, arranging toiletries, wiping out cupboards, dusting behind furniture and organizing underneath the sink. You do not know what your potential buyers are going to look at when viewing your home, so you need to make sure you’ve got all of your bases covered.

Reduce your clutter

Removing clutter is an essential component of prepping your Halifax home to sell. You want your home to feel as spacious as possible to incoming buyers because space = value. If you are toying between leaving something personal on the mantle or putting it away, you should probably put it away. The less personal you can make your home, the easier it is for someone else to see themselves in it.

This goes for the closets too. Do not simply take all of your extra items and store them in your closet. Buyers will look in the closets to see if they would have enough space for themselves. A cluttered closet will not sell a buyer on your home.

Take control of odours

Smell is a very strong sense and can sway buyers to or away from your home. It is best to avoid scents in general so that they are not distracting to the buyer, and in case a buyer has a scent allergy. Try to cook milder dishes that do not leave scents lingering as well. If you insist on adding fragrance to your home, opt for candles or air freshers with very common smells such as fresh linen, lavender or vanilla.

Leave the home

It is often very hard for a buyer to picture themselves living in your home if you are present during the showing. It is also hard for their agents to receive honest feedback from their buyers on what they thought of your space. Sometimes, this feedback is crucial to adjusting your home or listing to lock in a sale. 

Not only should you physically leave the home, but you should also remove any family photos or decor specific to your family. This will aid the buyer in picturing themselves in your space.

When a showing is scheduled, step out, and enjoy some of the beauty Halifax has to offer!

Open Concept

Buyers in this day and age love open-concept homes. If your home is built like this, you are in luck. If it is not, however, you can still succeed! Ways to make your Halifax home feel more open-concept are to: remove bulky furniture, keep sight-lines open, and rearrange existing furniture to invite people into the room. If you are not sure how to do this, there are professional home stagers who can help you immensely. 

Freshen up your yard

The yard often gets forgotten when families are preparing their homes for buyers, but this is a very important aspect of the home to make presentable. Your yard is the first thing buyers will see when they pull up to your property, and first impressions often stick.  Be sure to keep your lawn mowed, tuck away trash and compost bins, clean your doors, arrange patio furniture in an inviting way and wash or hose your decks and steps.

A fresh coat of paint

A fresh coat of paint on the walls can do wonders when you need to renew a space. Walls get dirty and scuffed over time, and we do not want the buyers thinking about that when they are looking at your home. If you are going to paint your walls, opt for a light and neutral colour that matches everything, and opens up the space.

Do not leave anything broken in sight

This may seem like an obvious one, but it is still worth mentioning. You should fix things that are visually broken. This includes leaking faucets, missing tiles, broken handles or hinges and so much more. If you can see that it's broken, the buyer can too. 

Adjust the temperature

Make sure that the temperature in your home is comfortable when buyers walk in. If your home is too cold, the buyer may not feel like they can relax after a long day of work. If the home is too hot, they may think there is not enough airflow. The most preferred room temperature is typically between 20-22 degrees Celsius.

The bottom line

Your top priority as a home seller is to get your home sold. And not only get it sold but for top dollar. By following these tips, and any other tips that your REALTOR® or home stager provides will not only make it easier to reach your goal, but to make the process much smoother from start to finish. When your home is clean and marketable, it not only increases its value but can add a much more pleasant and excited buyer.

Thinking of selling your Halifax Home?

Give us a call anytime at 902-488-0012

Andrew Perkins 

Never Skip the Home Inspection!

When you sign an agreement of purchase and sale to buy any Halifax property, you will come across conditions that the buyer must fulfil. One of those conditions is optional, and that is the home inspection. Even though it is optional, any experienced Halifax REALTOR® will tell you that it is should not be skipped. Home Inspections can reveal deficiencies in the property that can either lower the purchase price or cause the seller to have to fix these issues so that you do not have to deal with them when you move in. Is the cost of a home inspection worth it? We know the answer is yes, but read through this article to decide for yourself!

Home inspections function as official documentation of any issues with the property in question so that the buyer can address them with the sellers to come to an agreement. A home inspection can be used as a contingency in the purchase agreement, giving the buyers room to back out of the deal if there are too many issues found during the home inspection.

What does a home inspection cover?

A good inspector should inspect the following parts of the home, and take photos or videos or the issues. You can and should be present during the inspection, so you can see first hand the issues that may arise. If you cannot be there, your Halifax REALTOR® can be present for you. They will then be able to see what is wrong and negotiate on your behalf with the sellers if needed.

The home inspector should make a note if the issues detected are safety issues or minor/major defects. They should also note what needs repair and what needs to be replaced. They may even note if issues are ok for now but will need to be addressed soon.

The following list is what the home inspector will normally inspect:

The Exterior

The Home Inspector will check the exterior of the house for cosmetic damages and more serious problems. They will inspect the roof, chimney, gutters, downspouts, the surface of the walls, windows, doors, and the foundation. One thing to note is that they will not check for pest infestation or pest damage such as termite damage - this is something you may need a pest inspector to do if you wish. A home inspector will also check for siding cracks, rot, decay, and if there is enough clearing around the foundation to prevent moisture build-up. In a typical Halifax house, you normally cannot see the foundation, but a home inspector can look for things that may indicate damage such as cracks or settling.

Potential for Water Damage

The home inspector will look at the grading, whether it slopes away from the home or not, standing puddles and downspouts to assess the potential for water damage. Home flooding can be a huge burden and expense, so having this component looked at is crucial. If, for example, the grading does not slope away from the home, there is an increased risk of flooding - you would then need to think about installing drainage or re-slopping.

Garage

If your new Halifax home has a garage, the home inspector will test its door to ensure there are no issues with opening and closing, the will make sure the framing is sound, that the electric wiring is up to code, and if the garage is slopped properly. The most important part of the garage that the home inspector checks is if it is properly ventilated. This is very important to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide when running a car inside the garage.

Roof

The inspector checks the roof for damage or poor installation and if there are damaged mastics around the vents that are letting excess heat escape. Home inspectors are not required to walk on the roof according to the NACHI and ASHI National Standards of practice, however most will as long as it seems safe and the weather permits. You can speak to your Halifax REALTOR® or Halifax home inspector about this, and if needed you could hire a separate roof inspector.

The Interior

The interior aspects of the home that the inspector will check are the electrical, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, insulation, flooring, ceilings, walls, windows and doors. Some may also inspect any wood-burning appliance. The inspector will not open any walls, and will not look under the floors.

Plumbing

Concerning the plumbing, the home inspector will check the faucets, showings and drains. They will test the water pressure and make sure there are no leaks. If any pipes are visible, they may be able to determine the kind of pipes that are in the home. If the home inspector believes the pipes are old, they may recommend that you have a plumber replace them or at least evaluate them further. The inspector may evaluate if the toilets and sinks are caulked properly, and evidence of tree root damage that could cause pipe clogs.

Electrical

The first thing the Halifax inspector will do is determine what kind of wiring the home has. They will make sure all of the outlets are working correctly, and ensure that there are functional ground fault circuit interrupters to prevent electrical shock. They will ensure there are no electrical fire hazards, that the fuses are not overheating and there are no exposed slices. Again, they will do their best to inspect these elements without opening any walls.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning

The inspector will look at your HVAC system to estimate the age of the furnace and air conditioner. They can also make a recommendation if the system is in need of servicing or repair. The inspector may check the home’s ducting as well, in case of leaks, which is great to know as this allows heat to escape and raises electricity bills. The same thing goes for the water heater: the inspector will ensure it is properly installed and secure. They can also make an estimate of how many years it’ll be good for from that moment on.

Kitchen Appliances

Kitchen appliances are not always part of the home inspection. An inspector may have a look at your kitchen appliances simply to ensure they work. You can double-check if this will happen with your Halifax REALTOR® or home inspector. Appliances that the home inspector will normally check are the appliances that are going to stay with the home: typically included ovens, ranges, cooktop appliances, dishwashers and food waste disposal.

Laundry Room

The most important element of the laundry room that the inspector will check is if it is properly ventilated. If the dryer-exhaust system is not properly maintained, there could be a risk of fire.

Bathrooms

The inspector will ensure that there are no visible leaks in the bathroom, that the toilets are properly secured, and that there is proper ventilation. If there is no proper ventilation, mould and mildew can cause illness and warp the wood in the room. Like discusses earlier, they will also ensure there is proper water pressure, and that the drains are working.

Miscellaneous

A few other things that the inspector will check are:

-the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working

-stairs are secure

-no cracks in the walls

-house appears straight/is not sagging or bowed

-window frames are secure and their joints are caulked properly

-possible radon test if requested

It is very important to understand any issues with the home you are purchasing. Buying a home may be the largest purchase in your life! Once you are aware of the issues, you can do the following:

-Walk away from the deal if its too much

-Allow your Halifax REALTOR® to negotiate a price reduction

-Allow your Halifax REALTOR® to negotiate that the issues are resolved before closing.

Remember, the home inspector is always going to find something wrong - the importance of the home inspection is to know how severe the defects are. Even in brand new homes, there can be small issues.

Also, know that the seller will likely not fix all issues for you - this is just unreasonable. They may meet you halfway though, which could save you some serious cash.

A home inspection is always going to cost time and money, however, in the long run, it is better to fork out a couple of hundred dollars to potentially avoid paying thousands in renovations. If you are a first time home buyer, the inspector can also provide you with some really helpful maintenance advice so that you maintain your home properly to avoid major issues down the road. Just think: buying a house is a large investment, it is important to know as much as possible about what you are signing up for.

Author: Jordan Gunn
Licensed Real Estate Assistant
The Andrew Perkins Real Estate Team
Keller Williams Select Realty

Why Should You Stage Your Home to Sell?

Staging your home to sell is a new checklist item in the home selling process. Not only does it make your home look the most appealing to potential buyers, but it also may increase offer prices! Let look at some statistics that were pulled by The National Association of REALTORS Research Group in 2019:

40% of buyers’ agents cited that home staging had an effect on most buyers’ view of the home.

83% of agents said that staging a home made it easier for buyers to picture the property as a future home.

47% of buyers said that staging the living room was the most important. The second most important was the master bedroom, and then the kitchen.

25% of agents said that a staged home had an increased dollar value between 1-5%, compared to similar homes that were not staged. 17% of agents said that the dollar value increased between 6-10%.

The average dollar value spent on home staging was $400.

28% of sellers’ agents stated that there were decreases in the time on the market when the home is staged compare to similar homes that were not staged.

So, what the statistics are saying, is that if you spend on average $400 to stage your home, and your home is worth $300,000, you are looking at a probable increase in dollar value of about $7,500, and a potential increase of up to $30,000. Even if it only increased your home’s value by 1%, you are looking at a possible extra $3000!

What does it mean to stage a home?

Home staging is the process of adding decorations, arranging pre-existing furniture and/or hiring experts to dress your home to make it look its best for photos and open houses. It is essentially showing buyers the house's potential and allows buyers to picture their future home more easily than staring into an empty or unfurnished space.

Some Home Stagers are so good, they can make your home look like something out of a magazine! Our most trusted home stagers in the Halifax Area are A&E Home Staging. Danielle is phenomenal at aesthetics and design, and working with her guarantees your home will look its best. Pictured below is some of her work:

Still not convinced? Here are some more reasons below why staging your home should be non-negotiable in the selling process:

1. Your home will sell faster

According to the Real Estate Staging Association, homes that are staged sell on average 73% faster, than similar homes that were not staged. Just think: the main determinant in a buyer putting in an offer on your home will be its visual presentation. The average buyer is not going to put an offer on a home that they do not love the look of, or that they can picture themselves in. If you were a buyer and you looked at five homes, and one of them was beautifully staged, the other four bare, which one would be the most tempting?

2. Highlight the good stuff

Maybe your home has built-in shelves on the walls or a large fireplace in the centre of the room. Expert Home-Stagers will take these unique aspects of your home, and stage them properly to show buyers how these accents can upgrade your space, rather than clutter it. A shelf that may have been home to your gaming console for years can easily be turned into a display of artwork or local craft.

3. Hide the Flaws

Maybe your home has some things that you wish you could cover up or erase before buyers walkthrough. If this is the case, home-stagers will factor this into how they carefully place furniture, decor, lamps and rugs so that the buyer is pulled through the perfect flow of the home, and away from the less favourable features.

4. You may not see your own clutter

Unless you're a minimalist, you probably have clutter. We are also typically all blind to our own clutter because many of our possessions hold emotional value. You may think that a dresser full of family picture frames makes your bedroom feel like home, but a potential buyer has no connection to these photos, and they will make the room appear smaller to them. When you hire an expert to stage your home, they look at your space as a product on the market, not as the home that built your life. They will remove what they know buyers do not want to see and replace it with what will get you the top dollar.

5. More money in your pocket

The top priority of home stagers is to get buyers interested in your property. The more buyers that are interested, the more offers you will receive. Bidding wars can lead to higher offer prices which is what every seller hopes and dreams of. If a couple falls in love with your home and hears that there are multiple offers, they may offer much more than they were planning to, to make sure they don’t lose it.

Don’t take it Personally

A Home-Stager may remove many things from your home that you cherish and love. You must remember to not become offended if your home-stager tells you to hide your favourite poster or painting: The home-stager is not saying that your favourite wall decor isn’t beautiful - they are trying to make your home less personal and as marketable as they can to the widest range of buyers. When we remove personal objects and favourite colours and replace them with more generic and neutral decorations and colours, a wider range of individuals may be able to picture themselves in your home.

Author: Jordan Gunn
Licensed Real Estate Assistant
The Andrew Perkins Real Estate Team
Keller Williams Select Realty