http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/ This page contains the blog. Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:26:00 +0000 http://ubertor.com/?v=1.0 en This is an XML content feed. It is intended to be viewed in a newsreader or syndicated to another site, subject to copyright and fair use. http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1453/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1453/#comments Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:22:36 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1453/  
700    Fraser Rd        $234,900
 
449 - 654    Cook Rd       $379,000
 
642 - 654    Cook Rd       $399,000
 
For more information on real estate in the Okanagan, please contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati
REALTOR
Cell: 250.870.2792
Alexandra@theOREC.com
www.theOREC.com
www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com

 

Read More]]>  
700    Fraser Rd        $234,900
 
449 - 654    Cook Rd       $379,000
 
642 - 654    Cook Rd       $399,000
 
For more information on real estate in the Okanagan, please contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati
REALTOR
Cell: 250.870.2792
Alexandra@theOREC.com
www.theOREC.com
www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com

 

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1453/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1451/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1451/#comments Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:20:24 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1451/ 21-2450 Selkirk is a new luxury townhome on Dilworth Mountain. The owners are willing to do a trade with a house in the Kelowna North area. If you own a house in the Kelowna North area and would be open to a trade please contact:


Okanagan Real Estate Company 


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com


 


 

Read More]]> 21-2450 Selkirk is a new luxury townhome on Dilworth Mountain. The owners are willing to do a trade with a house in the Kelowna North area. If you own a house in the Kelowna North area and would be open to a trade please contact:


Okanagan Real Estate Company 


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com


 


 

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1451/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1449/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1449/#comments Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:16:59 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1449/ 369 Uplands, Kelowna is a house on 0.46 acres in the Upper Mission. Rare large lot! Beautiful lake views!!!! 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms, rancher with walk-out basement. The owner lives in the basement and rents out the upper level. The property has it's Bed and Breakfast license.


 


The house needs a reno but has lots of potential. Great property if you do construction and can do the reno yourself. A new house down the street on a smaller lot is selling for $1,499,000. A good property to reno and flip.


 


To schedule a private viewing, please contact:


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


 Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com


 

Read More]]> 369 Uplands, Kelowna is a house on 0.46 acres in the Upper Mission. Rare large lot! Beautiful lake views!!!! 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms, rancher with walk-out basement. The owner lives in the basement and rents out the upper level. The property has it's Bed and Breakfast license.


 


The house needs a reno but has lots of potential. Great property if you do construction and can do the reno yourself. A new house down the street on a smaller lot is selling for $1,499,000. A good property to reno and flip.


 


To schedule a private viewing, please contact:


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


 Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com


 

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1449/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1447/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1447/#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:49:16 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1447/
November 19, 2008 - 2:37 pm

By: Kim Thompson , THE CANADIAN PRESS



WHISTLER, B.C. - If Whistler, the host mountain resort for the 2010 Winter Games, had a motto it would be "if you build it, they will come."


Whistler was always destined for the world stage. In fact the entire resort was built with the Olympics in mind. In 1960, a group of Vancouver businessmen skiing at Squaw Valley, host of that year's winter Olympics, had an epiphany. Vancouver and the mountains to the north would be a perfect place to hold the 1968 Games.


All they needed was a mountain.


The businessmen began a search for suitable terrain, but one, Norwegian Franz Wilhelmsen, already knew the ideal location. He was crazy about skiing and spent many weekends at Alta Lake, getting out of bed at the crack of dawn and hiking through thigh deep snow to the top of London Mountain. Only a chairlift could make Wilhelmsen's ritual complete.


The Garibaldi Lift Company was formed with the aim of developing an alpine ski area on London Mountain, which was later renamed Whistler Mountain in honour of a local alpine marmot, which "whistles" when it communicates.


It was actually fishing that drew the first tourists to Whistler, more specifically to Rainbow Lodge on Alta Lake. In the early 1920's, Rainbow Lodge was the most popular summer destination west of the Rocky Mountains. No one could have guessed that 50 years later the winter would overshadow the summer in Whistler.


"Originally Whistler was known as a destination for fishing thanks to world-class anglers Alex and Myrtle Philip.


"The community has always had a pioneering spirit so building an entire ski resort on an Olympic dream is not that surprising," said Jehanne Burns, Whistler Museum and Archives education programmer.


The excitement surrounding the new Whistler ski resort spread and in 1961 an audacious bid was put forward for Whistler to be the Canadian nominee for the 1968 Olympic Winter Games. The lack of good road access, sewage, power, chairlifts or people didn't keep the promoters back but it did tip the balance in favour of Banff as the Canadian nominee. Meanwhile, the Garibaldi Lift Company set about raising the cash to start a ski resort.


"More than 50 years later Whistler has come full circle with the 2010 Winter Games. The Olympic Games are really the foundation of this ski resort," Burns said.


Proposals were submitted, rejected, modified, researched, rejected again and finally lift construction began in 1965. Whistler didn't host the 1968 Winter Games and failed in the next bid attempt too. Though Olympic plans never came to fruition, Whistler quietly grew into a world-class ski resort.


In 1991, Whistler Resort became the first mountain resort outside of the U.S. to be named No. 1 by a major American ski magazine. But the biggest news was yet to come.


In March 1997, Whistler Mountain Ski Corporation (which owned Whistler) merged with Intrawest Corporation (which owned Blackcomb) to create one of the biggest mountain resort complexes in the world. By 2000, the number of annual visitors surpassed two million and the permanent population had grown to 9,500.


Whistler also became a destination famous for fostering Olympic talent. Local rider Ross Rebagliati became the world's first snowboard gold medallist at the Nagano Olympics in 1998. He is one of many sport heroes to call Whistler home, joining alpine racers and Crazy Canucks Steve Podborski and Dave Murray as well as current World Cup champions Britt and Michael Janyk to name a few.


Nowadays if you throw a rock in Whistler, you're liable to smack a former Olympian in the head.


Podborski, member of the Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation, said in 50 years the idea of hosting the Olympics never fizzled in Whistler. But while Whistler may be steeped in Olympic history, he said organizers had to prove that Vancouver and Whistler could put on an extraordinary event.


"It's true that we had a compelling story but we have to prove that we could host the world. That meant everything from transportation planning to the construction of the athlete's village," Podborski said.


Vancouver 2010 bid officials had to commit to a major upgrade of the Sea to Sky Highway between Whistler and Vancouver and the construction of venues such as the Whistler Sliding Centre and the Whistler Olympic Park.


"Hosting the 2010 Winter Games is not without its challenges but as a Whistler resident, I see a lot of things coming to us that will make our community better," Podborski said. "Hundreds of people are working to make this happen and it is a very good thing for Whistler."


Most fittingly, after a third attempt, on July 2, 2003, more than 5,000 residents gathered in Whistler's Village Square to cheer Jacques Rogge, the president of the International Olympic Committee speaking live from Prague, as he announced Vancouver/Whistler as the host of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.


Though Franz and most of his friends are gone now, Canadians owe them a debt of gratitude for having a grand vision and the determination to make it come true.


"The road leading to the 2010 Winter Games is really the story of this place," Burns said. "Whistler was literally born for the Games."



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Read More]]>
November 19, 2008 - 2:37 pm

By: Kim Thompson , THE CANADIAN PRESS



WHISTLER, B.C. - If Whistler, the host mountain resort for the 2010 Winter Games, had a motto it would be "if you build it, they will come."


Whistler was always destined for the world stage. In fact the entire resort was built with the Olympics in mind. In 1960, a group of Vancouver businessmen skiing at Squaw Valley, host of that year's winter Olympics, had an epiphany. Vancouver and the mountains to the north would be a perfect place to hold the 1968 Games.


All they needed was a mountain.


The businessmen began a search for suitable terrain, but one, Norwegian Franz Wilhelmsen, already knew the ideal location. He was crazy about skiing and spent many weekends at Alta Lake, getting out of bed at the crack of dawn and hiking through thigh deep snow to the top of London Mountain. Only a chairlift could make Wilhelmsen's ritual complete.


The Garibaldi Lift Company was formed with the aim of developing an alpine ski area on London Mountain, which was later renamed Whistler Mountain in honour of a local alpine marmot, which "whistles" when it communicates.


It was actually fishing that drew the first tourists to Whistler, more specifically to Rainbow Lodge on Alta Lake. In the early 1920's, Rainbow Lodge was the most popular summer destination west of the Rocky Mountains. No one could have guessed that 50 years later the winter would overshadow the summer in Whistler.


"Originally Whistler was known as a destination for fishing thanks to world-class anglers Alex and Myrtle Philip.


"The community has always had a pioneering spirit so building an entire ski resort on an Olympic dream is not that surprising," said Jehanne Burns, Whistler Museum and Archives education programmer.


The excitement surrounding the new Whistler ski resort spread and in 1961 an audacious bid was put forward for Whistler to be the Canadian nominee for the 1968 Olympic Winter Games. The lack of good road access, sewage, power, chairlifts or people didn't keep the promoters back but it did tip the balance in favour of Banff as the Canadian nominee. Meanwhile, the Garibaldi Lift Company set about raising the cash to start a ski resort.


"More than 50 years later Whistler has come full circle with the 2010 Winter Games. The Olympic Games are really the foundation of this ski resort," Burns said.


Proposals were submitted, rejected, modified, researched, rejected again and finally lift construction began in 1965. Whistler didn't host the 1968 Winter Games and failed in the next bid attempt too. Though Olympic plans never came to fruition, Whistler quietly grew into a world-class ski resort.


In 1991, Whistler Resort became the first mountain resort outside of the U.S. to be named No. 1 by a major American ski magazine. But the biggest news was yet to come.


In March 1997, Whistler Mountain Ski Corporation (which owned Whistler) merged with Intrawest Corporation (which owned Blackcomb) to create one of the biggest mountain resort complexes in the world. By 2000, the number of annual visitors surpassed two million and the permanent population had grown to 9,500.


Whistler also became a destination famous for fostering Olympic talent. Local rider Ross Rebagliati became the world's first snowboard gold medallist at the Nagano Olympics in 1998. He is one of many sport heroes to call Whistler home, joining alpine racers and Crazy Canucks Steve Podborski and Dave Murray as well as current World Cup champions Britt and Michael Janyk to name a few.


Nowadays if you throw a rock in Whistler, you're liable to smack a former Olympian in the head.


Podborski, member of the Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation, said in 50 years the idea of hosting the Olympics never fizzled in Whistler. But while Whistler may be steeped in Olympic history, he said organizers had to prove that Vancouver and Whistler could put on an extraordinary event.


"It's true that we had a compelling story but we have to prove that we could host the world. That meant everything from transportation planning to the construction of the athlete's village," Podborski said.


Vancouver 2010 bid officials had to commit to a major upgrade of the Sea to Sky Highway between Whistler and Vancouver and the construction of venues such as the Whistler Sliding Centre and the Whistler Olympic Park.


"Hosting the 2010 Winter Games is not without its challenges but as a Whistler resident, I see a lot of things coming to us that will make our community better," Podborski said. "Hundreds of people are working to make this happen and it is a very good thing for Whistler."


Most fittingly, after a third attempt, on July 2, 2003, more than 5,000 residents gathered in Whistler's Village Square to cheer Jacques Rogge, the president of the International Olympic Committee speaking live from Prague, as he announced Vancouver/Whistler as the host of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.


Though Franz and most of his friends are gone now, Canadians owe them a debt of gratitude for having a grand vision and the determination to make it come true.


"The road leading to the 2010 Winter Games is really the story of this place," Burns said. "Whistler was literally born for the Games."



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Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1447/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1445/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1445/#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:23:25 +0000 Listings http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1445/ I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 655 Cook Road, Kelowna, B.C.
Gorgeous 3 bedroom home in the Lower Mission priced BELOW what the owner paid for it. Must sell. Great value!!!!! Close to everything. Walk to beach. Eldorado, Cabana, shops, Captial News Centre and Greenway Trails.

3 bedrooms
2 1/2 bathrooms
Master bedroom has ensuite and walkin closer
Living Room
Den
Kitchen with island and breakfast nook
Laundry room
Detached 2 car garage
Fenced in backyard

For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati
Okanagan Real Estate Company
REALTORŪ
Cell: 250.870.2792
Alexandra@theOREC.com
www.theOREC.com Read More]]> I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 655 Cook Road, Kelowna, B.C.
Gorgeous 3 bedroom home in the Lower Mission priced BELOW what the owner paid for it. Must sell. Great value!!!!! Close to everything. Walk to beach. Eldorado, Cabana, shops, Captial News Centre and Greenway Trails.

3 bedrooms
2 1/2 bathrooms
Master bedroom has ensuite and walkin closer
Living Room
Den
Kitchen with island and breakfast nook
Laundry room
Detached 2 car garage
Fenced in backyard

For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati
Okanagan Real Estate Company
REALTORŪ
Cell: 250.870.2792
Alexandra@theOREC.com
www.theOREC.com Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1445/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1443/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1443/#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:01:39 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1443/
655     Cook Rd        $469,000
 
412-1550    Dickson Ave        $255,000
 
13051    East Ridge Dr.        $349,900
 
1244    Hume Ave        $189,900
 
1224    Hume Ave        $199,000
 
1205    Hume Ave       $219,000
 
1225    Hume Ave        $219,000
 
2082    Chilcotin Cres        $729,900
 
4516    Walker Dr.        $749,000
 
13100    Apex Dr.        $629,900

 


For more information on real estate in the Okanagan, please contact:


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com

Read More]]>
655     Cook Rd        $469,000
 
412-1550    Dickson Ave        $255,000
 
13051    East Ridge Dr.        $349,900
 
1244    Hume Ave        $189,900
 
1224    Hume Ave        $199,000
 
1205    Hume Ave       $219,000
 
1225    Hume Ave        $219,000
 
2082    Chilcotin Cres        $729,900
 
4516    Walker Dr.        $749,000
 
13100    Apex Dr.        $629,900

 


For more information on real estate in the Okanagan, please contact:


Alexandra Rebagliati


REALTOR


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


www.OkanaganRealEstateCompany.com

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1443/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1441/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1441/#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:01:07 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1441/
Mortgage Rates Cut Coming



The Bank of Montreal's rate cut - effective Monday - will chop its five-year rate to 5.25%, down from 7.2%. We expect this is the first salvo in a round of rate cuts as major banks try to inject some sanity into the housing market. The cut came after Ottawa confirmed it would buy up a further $50 billion in high-ratio mortgages (the kind backed already by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. insurance).



What the banks are realizing is that a rate cut is needed to spur consumer confidence; that the Canadian housing market remains rock-steady (the default rate is 0.27%) and the economy remains among the strongest in the world. Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney has signaled further rate cuts at the next sitting on December 9. "Despite having already cut official interest rates in half over the past year and having a financial sector that is still functioning effectively, some further monetary stimulus will likely be required to achieve the inflation target over the medium term," he said. Should you lock in for five years at 5.25%? Wait a week and see if you can get an even better bank rate, which we think you will. (Meridian Mortgage has five years posted this week at 4.99%; 7 years at 5.25%.)

Read More]]>
Mortgage Rates Cut Coming



The Bank of Montreal's rate cut - effective Monday - will chop its five-year rate to 5.25%, down from 7.2%. We expect this is the first salvo in a round of rate cuts as major banks try to inject some sanity into the housing market. The cut came after Ottawa confirmed it would buy up a further $50 billion in high-ratio mortgages (the kind backed already by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. insurance).



What the banks are realizing is that a rate cut is needed to spur consumer confidence; that the Canadian housing market remains rock-steady (the default rate is 0.27%) and the economy remains among the strongest in the world. Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney has signaled further rate cuts at the next sitting on December 9. "Despite having already cut official interest rates in half over the past year and having a financial sector that is still functioning effectively, some further monetary stimulus will likely be required to achieve the inflation target over the medium term," he said. Should you lock in for five years at 5.25%? Wait a week and see if you can get an even better bank rate, which we think you will. (Meridian Mortgage has five years posted this week at 4.99%; 7 years at 5.25%.)

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1441/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1439/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1439/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:06:51 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1439/

Advantages of Buying and Owning a Condominium




Condos have become an increasingly attractive home ownership option for many people. Whether you’re a young couple looking for affordable housing, or a retired couple wanting to downsize because their kids have moved out, there is likely a condo for sale to fit your needs. A condo is a viable option for anyone who wants to own a home without the worry of repairs, maintenance and dreaded chores like snow shovelling. Condos require little work, and are maintained by the association, so the condo owner does not have to be concerned with certain maintenance activities.


As well, many people are turning away from the single-family home market and becoming more interested in the condominium market. There are three main reasons why condos are gaining such popularity: they are economical, convenient, and easy to maintain.
 
1. Economical. In general, condos cost less than traditional single-family homes. Some experts estimate condos are as much as 20 percent cheaper than their single-family home counterparts. Within recent years, such value has given a real boost to condominium sales.


Condominiums will increase your buying power. Condos usually sell for 20 to 30 percent less than similar detached homes, so it is an ideal option for a first time buyer with a limited budget. You will have all the luxury of owning your own home, but will be able to share the cost of upkeep on the building. For most buyers the choice is to buy a condo that meets their living needs or continue to rent.


Condominiums usually cost less to maintain than detached homes. The replacement cost of a high rise roof may be more in absolute terms than replacing the roof of a detached single-family home, but the cost per owner should be less. Depending on the cost of the repair, there should be enough money from the association fees that can cover the repair without any additional cost.
 
2. Convenience. Condo living can be extremely convenient. Typically, condos are strategically built near the heart of a city, where most business and entertainment establishments are located. People are choosing to forego the commute required by suburban living, opting instead to centre themselves in the city. By avoiding a long drive or train ride into work, condo owners enjoy more leisure time and a reduced-stress lifestyle.


Condominiums have amenities that some people could not otherwise afford, such as swimming pools or tennis courts, their own community centre with exercise rooms and much more.


3. Easy to maintain. Condos are also popular because they require little effort toward maintenance. Homeowners know that they are responsible for all of the upkeep and repairs that are associated with keeping a house in good shape. On the other hand, condo owners typically don’t have to worry so much about matters of upkeep or liability. Condos are typically managed by a board that makes decisions regarding repairs and other maintenance issues. With condos, taking care of your property is a very hands-off experience that usually involves the periodic paying of fees and the choice to participate, if desired, in regularly-scheduled, condominium board meetings.


Condominiums are ideal homes for first-time buyers, small families or people without children, retired couples and vacationers. While a condo can be the first step on the ownership ladder, it is often a good stand-alone investment in real estate. If the above qualities are appealing to you, you should learn more about the Condo market in your area.
 






Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


 

Read More]]>

Advantages of Buying and Owning a Condominium




Condos have become an increasingly attractive home ownership option for many people. Whether you’re a young couple looking for affordable housing, or a retired couple wanting to downsize because their kids have moved out, there is likely a condo for sale to fit your needs. A condo is a viable option for anyone who wants to own a home without the worry of repairs, maintenance and dreaded chores like snow shovelling. Condos require little work, and are maintained by the association, so the condo owner does not have to be concerned with certain maintenance activities.


As well, many people are turning away from the single-family home market and becoming more interested in the condominium market. There are three main reasons why condos are gaining such popularity: they are economical, convenient, and easy to maintain.
 
1. Economical. In general, condos cost less than traditional single-family homes. Some experts estimate condos are as much as 20 percent cheaper than their single-family home counterparts. Within recent years, such value has given a real boost to condominium sales.


Condominiums will increase your buying power. Condos usually sell for 20 to 30 percent less than similar detached homes, so it is an ideal option for a first time buyer with a limited budget. You will have all the luxury of owning your own home, but will be able to share the cost of upkeep on the building. For most buyers the choice is to buy a condo that meets their living needs or continue to rent.


Condominiums usually cost less to maintain than detached homes. The replacement cost of a high rise roof may be more in absolute terms than replacing the roof of a detached single-family home, but the cost per owner should be less. Depending on the cost of the repair, there should be enough money from the association fees that can cover the repair without any additional cost.
 
2. Convenience. Condo living can be extremely convenient. Typically, condos are strategically built near the heart of a city, where most business and entertainment establishments are located. People are choosing to forego the commute required by suburban living, opting instead to centre themselves in the city. By avoiding a long drive or train ride into work, condo owners enjoy more leisure time and a reduced-stress lifestyle.


Condominiums have amenities that some people could not otherwise afford, such as swimming pools or tennis courts, their own community centre with exercise rooms and much more.


3. Easy to maintain. Condos are also popular because they require little effort toward maintenance. Homeowners know that they are responsible for all of the upkeep and repairs that are associated with keeping a house in good shape. On the other hand, condo owners typically don’t have to worry so much about matters of upkeep or liability. Condos are typically managed by a board that makes decisions regarding repairs and other maintenance issues. With condos, taking care of your property is a very hands-off experience that usually involves the periodic paying of fees and the choice to participate, if desired, in regularly-scheduled, condominium board meetings.


Condominiums are ideal homes for first-time buyers, small families or people without children, retired couples and vacationers. While a condo can be the first step on the ownership ladder, it is often a good stand-alone investment in real estate. If the above qualities are appealing to you, you should learn more about the Condo market in your area.
 






Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


 

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1439/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1437/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1437/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:05:47 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1437/

Grand Entrance Can Impact Your Home Investment




It's been said you never get a second chance to make a first impression. In fact, your front door is telling people things behind your back! How come? What does it say? Since your front door is one of the first things guests and neighbours see, making your front entrance magnificent can go a long way in enhancing your home's attractiveness and your pride of home ownership. It is one way you can use to maximize both the curb appeal and the enjoyment of your home.


You might be surprised to learn that the most prominent feature of a house, the front door, is the first thing visitors and passers-by notice. Not only does the front door set the tone for the overall appearance of your house, it also makes a personal statement. The entry is simply the perfect place to announce to guests who you are. It should say 'This is me, this is who I am, and come on in!'"  The front door is the gateway to your home. It should reflect your personal style and arouse one’s curiosity as to what lies beyond its threshold. A decorative door says people are welcome and their visit is an important event. The single most important thing when somebody pulls up to a house is how the front door presents itself. There's a “yes, I like it” or “no, I don't like it” reaction that people have. It's visual appeal, but it's also the warmth of the home. It's a hospitality signal.


One national study shows the degree to which a grand entrance adds to the perceived value of the home. There is a proven relationship between a home's perceived value and the appearance of its front door. Homeowners were shown a home with a six panel door, clear sidelights, and a clear transom. They were then shown the same entrance with decorative doorglass and coordinating decorative sidelights. By changing a home's front entry door it was found to yield up to a 10 percent increase in the home's value, much more than the actual cost of the door system with decorative glass. With a coordinating decorative transom, the increase in perceived value is even higher. That means the way you choose to decorate your home from the outside speaks to what lies beyond the front door.


Even if a grand entrance is not in your plans, the use of decorative doorglass can still enhance the curb appeal of your home and makes a great first impression. In a national study of over 2000 homeowners, 67% selected a front entry door with decorative glass as their first choice over doors with either no glass or clear glass.


There are many types of doors and a wide variety of shapes, colours, and designs to choose from. However, if you want a conversation starter right at the front door, choose a carved and art-glass door! With its unique style and character, and impressive scale and aesthetic appeal, this front door will be the first thing that people see whenever they visit and the last thing they will remember. This type of door has been favoured by many simply because it makes a very definitive personal statement and its unique design allows for imagination and creativity.


A nice, decorative door with two sidelights generally costs $2,500 to $4,500 installed. However, you will need approximately 7 feet (in width) for space. Many older homes simply don't have the space. In such cases, we suggest dressing up the entry way with door surrounds, such as a header above the door that acts as a mantel plus pilasters along the sides, or building a front entry addition to blend in the style and scale with the entire house.












For those on tight budgets a fresh coat of paint in an eye-catching colour for the front door, and a couple of add-on features, like a lockset, mail slot, doorbell button and a matching light fixture with inexpensive door trim,  may do the trick.


People now have recognized the importance of curb appeal and are willing to pay an extra price to make a statement.  People make decisions at that first look. The front of a house is what grabs them and brings them in. This equation is very simple, if they don't like it, they're just going to drive on by. Remember, your front door is the exclamation point of your home, the division between private and public space, the greeting you offer the world, ...and yourself!






 


Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


 

Read More]]>

Grand Entrance Can Impact Your Home Investment




It's been said you never get a second chance to make a first impression. In fact, your front door is telling people things behind your back! How come? What does it say? Since your front door is one of the first things guests and neighbours see, making your front entrance magnificent can go a long way in enhancing your home's attractiveness and your pride of home ownership. It is one way you can use to maximize both the curb appeal and the enjoyment of your home.


You might be surprised to learn that the most prominent feature of a house, the front door, is the first thing visitors and passers-by notice. Not only does the front door set the tone for the overall appearance of your house, it also makes a personal statement. The entry is simply the perfect place to announce to guests who you are. It should say 'This is me, this is who I am, and come on in!'"  The front door is the gateway to your home. It should reflect your personal style and arouse one’s curiosity as to what lies beyond its threshold. A decorative door says people are welcome and their visit is an important event. The single most important thing when somebody pulls up to a house is how the front door presents itself. There's a “yes, I like it” or “no, I don't like it” reaction that people have. It's visual appeal, but it's also the warmth of the home. It's a hospitality signal.


One national study shows the degree to which a grand entrance adds to the perceived value of the home. There is a proven relationship between a home's perceived value and the appearance of its front door. Homeowners were shown a home with a six panel door, clear sidelights, and a clear transom. They were then shown the same entrance with decorative doorglass and coordinating decorative sidelights. By changing a home's front entry door it was found to yield up to a 10 percent increase in the home's value, much more than the actual cost of the door system with decorative glass. With a coordinating decorative transom, the increase in perceived value is even higher. That means the way you choose to decorate your home from the outside speaks to what lies beyond the front door.


Even if a grand entrance is not in your plans, the use of decorative doorglass can still enhance the curb appeal of your home and makes a great first impression. In a national study of over 2000 homeowners, 67% selected a front entry door with decorative glass as their first choice over doors with either no glass or clear glass.


There are many types of doors and a wide variety of shapes, colours, and designs to choose from. However, if you want a conversation starter right at the front door, choose a carved and art-glass door! With its unique style and character, and impressive scale and aesthetic appeal, this front door will be the first thing that people see whenever they visit and the last thing they will remember. This type of door has been favoured by many simply because it makes a very definitive personal statement and its unique design allows for imagination and creativity.


A nice, decorative door with two sidelights generally costs $2,500 to $4,500 installed. However, you will need approximately 7 feet (in width) for space. Many older homes simply don't have the space. In such cases, we suggest dressing up the entry way with door surrounds, such as a header above the door that acts as a mantel plus pilasters along the sides, or building a front entry addition to blend in the style and scale with the entire house.












For those on tight budgets a fresh coat of paint in an eye-catching colour for the front door, and a couple of add-on features, like a lockset, mail slot, doorbell button and a matching light fixture with inexpensive door trim,  may do the trick.


People now have recognized the importance of curb appeal and are willing to pay an extra price to make a statement.  People make decisions at that first look. The front of a house is what grabs them and brings them in. This equation is very simple, if they don't like it, they're just going to drive on by. Remember, your front door is the exclamation point of your home, the division between private and public space, the greeting you offer the world, ...and yourself!






 


Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com


 

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1437/#comments http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1435/ http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1435/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:02:57 +0000 General http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1435/

How to Repair Your Credit and Improve Your Score




Credit Score is the method used by financial institutes to measure your financial health at a specific point in time. It indicates the risk you represent for lenders, compared with other consumers. In Canada, credit history is recorded in files maintained by at least one of Canada's three major credit-reporting bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion and Northern Credit Bureaus Inc.). These files are called credit reports – a "snapshot" of your credit history.


There is a rising tide of spam offering "credit repair" for a fee. Beware of these companies; their ability to change the information that appears in your credit file is no different than anyone else's! Only your creditors are able to alter this information. Therefore you do not need to pay a third party to obtain, review or make changes to your credit report. You have the right to access your information and make changes to your file if there is an inaccuracy.


What should you do if you have bad credit?


Before you pay someone to advise you how to fix your credit, check out these simple steps to help you build a better credit rating:


1. Request a copy of your credit report from the three credit-reporting agencies at least once a year to verify that your personal information is up to date and your financial information is correct, and to ensure that you have not been the victim of identity fraud. Because your credit information can be kept by more than one credit-reporting agency, and because those agencies do not necessarily share information, it's important to check all three credit reports carefully. You can get a copy of your credit history from the above agencies websites for a small fee.


2. Check your credit history thoroughly. Look for errors and make sure the information in the report is correct and up to date. If you believe that the information in your credit report is incorrect, contact the financial institution that reported the information to see if an error was made. You could also file a dispute with the three credit-reporting bureaus explaining your situation.


3. Analyse your finances.  Make a list of everything you owe, the interest rate each debt carries, and the minimum payment due each month. Then, prioritize your debt: mortgage, real estate taxes, credit cards and bills should be paid in that order.


4. Negotiate with your creditors for a lower interest rate.


5. Pay your bills on time. Although the payment of your utility bills, such as phone, cable and electricity, is not recorded in your credit report, some companies may report late payments to the credit-reporting agencies, which could affect your score. Try to pay your bills in full by the due date. If you aren't able to do this, pay at least the required minimum amount shown on your monthly credit card statement.


6. Try to pay your debts as quickly as possible. The faster you pay your loans the less interest you will pay in the long run which means more available money to pay other bills.


7. Don't go over the credit limit on your credit card. Try to keep your balance below 25% of the limit. The higher your balance, the more impact it has on your credit score. You're better off spreading out your debt between three or four different cards than having it all piled on one card.


8. Reduce the number of credit applications you make. If too many potential lenders ask about your credit in a short period of time, this may have a negative effect on your score. However, your score does not change when you ask for information about your own credit report.


9. Make sure you have a credit history. You may have a low score because you do not have a record of owing money and paying it back. You can build a credit history by using a credit card.


10. Don't share credit (except with a spouse).  Think carefully before you agree to co-sign a loan. It is easy to wind up in a situation where that friend or relative stops paying his or her bills (for whatever reason) and your credit will take a big hit. Once you're a co-signer for a loan, you're legally obligated to make those payments, whether or not you can afford them.


Show the credit system that you are a responsible money manager. A bad mark on your credit report will remain on your credit record for a maximum of 7 years. Pay your bills on time. Don't bounce any cheques. Don't overdraw your account at the bank (even if you have overdraft protection). You should only borrow money because you want to, not because you have to.  In this way you will repair your credit and avoid a bad credit report in the future.






 


For more information on credit scores contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com

Read More]]>

How to Repair Your Credit and Improve Your Score




Credit Score is the method used by financial institutes to measure your financial health at a specific point in time. It indicates the risk you represent for lenders, compared with other consumers. In Canada, credit history is recorded in files maintained by at least one of Canada's three major credit-reporting bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion and Northern Credit Bureaus Inc.). These files are called credit reports – a "snapshot" of your credit history.


There is a rising tide of spam offering "credit repair" for a fee. Beware of these companies; their ability to change the information that appears in your credit file is no different than anyone else's! Only your creditors are able to alter this information. Therefore you do not need to pay a third party to obtain, review or make changes to your credit report. You have the right to access your information and make changes to your file if there is an inaccuracy.


What should you do if you have bad credit?


Before you pay someone to advise you how to fix your credit, check out these simple steps to help you build a better credit rating:


1. Request a copy of your credit report from the three credit-reporting agencies at least once a year to verify that your personal information is up to date and your financial information is correct, and to ensure that you have not been the victim of identity fraud. Because your credit information can be kept by more than one credit-reporting agency, and because those agencies do not necessarily share information, it's important to check all three credit reports carefully. You can get a copy of your credit history from the above agencies websites for a small fee.


2. Check your credit history thoroughly. Look for errors and make sure the information in the report is correct and up to date. If you believe that the information in your credit report is incorrect, contact the financial institution that reported the information to see if an error was made. You could also file a dispute with the three credit-reporting bureaus explaining your situation.


3. Analyse your finances.  Make a list of everything you owe, the interest rate each debt carries, and the minimum payment due each month. Then, prioritize your debt: mortgage, real estate taxes, credit cards and bills should be paid in that order.


4. Negotiate with your creditors for a lower interest rate.


5. Pay your bills on time. Although the payment of your utility bills, such as phone, cable and electricity, is not recorded in your credit report, some companies may report late payments to the credit-reporting agencies, which could affect your score. Try to pay your bills in full by the due date. If you aren't able to do this, pay at least the required minimum amount shown on your monthly credit card statement.


6. Try to pay your debts as quickly as possible. The faster you pay your loans the less interest you will pay in the long run which means more available money to pay other bills.


7. Don't go over the credit limit on your credit card. Try to keep your balance below 25% of the limit. The higher your balance, the more impact it has on your credit score. You're better off spreading out your debt between three or four different cards than having it all piled on one card.


8. Reduce the number of credit applications you make. If too many potential lenders ask about your credit in a short period of time, this may have a negative effect on your score. However, your score does not change when you ask for information about your own credit report.


9. Make sure you have a credit history. You may have a low score because you do not have a record of owing money and paying it back. You can build a credit history by using a credit card.


10. Don't share credit (except with a spouse).  Think carefully before you agree to co-sign a loan. It is easy to wind up in a situation where that friend or relative stops paying his or her bills (for whatever reason) and your credit will take a big hit. Once you're a co-signer for a loan, you're legally obligated to make those payments, whether or not you can afford them.


Show the credit system that you are a responsible money manager. A bad mark on your credit report will remain on your credit record for a maximum of 7 years. Pay your bills on time. Don't bounce any cheques. Don't overdraw your account at the bank (even if you have overdraft protection). You should only borrow money because you want to, not because you have to.  In this way you will repair your credit and avoid a bad credit report in the future.






 


For more information on credit scores contact:
Alexandra Rebagliati


Cell: 250.870.2792


Alexandra@theOREC.com


www.theOREC.com

Read More ]]> http://okanaganrealestatecompany.com/ViewBlog/1435/#comments