How Much Time Should You Spend Viewing Homes?

                                      


Figuring out how much time you should spend viewing properties for sale is a little like asking, “How long should I spend trying on shoes?”

The answer seems obvious: As long as it takes to make a decision!

Buying a home is significantly more complex than purchasing shoes – and the stakes are higher too! You need to make sure you have all the information necessary to confidently make the best decision.

There are basically three stages to viewing a property:
1. Macro
2. Micro
3. Professional

When you view a home on a macro basis, you’re looking at it from an overall perspective. For example, you may do a general walk-through to get a first impression and determine if the property has the basic features you need, such as the number of bedrooms and the size of the backyard.

Macro viewing is often the fastest stage in the viewing process and can sometimes take just a few minutes.
If you like what you see, then it’s onto the micro stage. At this stage you take a closer look at the details of the property. You might, for example, spend extra time in the master bedroom imagining how your furniture would look and fit.

The micro stage takes longer simply because the home is now on your shortlist. You’re interested and are considering making an offer.

Finally, the professional stage involves getting a qualified home inspector to go over the property with a fine tooth comb. That typically occurs after you’ve made an offer. As your REALTOR®, I will guide you through a viewing so you’ll know what to look for and can make a smart, informed decision. Call Alisa Sakamoto at 604-644-1044

Finding an Honest Home Improvement Contractor




You can’t call yourself a dentist unless you have specific hard-earned credentials. Just about anyone, however, can hang a shingle and call himself a home improvement contractor. That’s why choosing a reputable one is so difficult.

Here are some tips:
• Find out if he or she is truly in business full-time. A part-time or occasional contractor may not have the experience necessary to do a great job.

• Ask about licenses and other credentials. Some contractors have accreditations from professional and trade associations.

• Review his or her project portfolio. A reputable contractor will have photos and other evidence of work completed for similar clients.

• Check online for reviews. If there are more than five poor reviews within the past three years — that’s a red flag.

• Ask for references. Then, call at least one. Finally, the best contractors are those that get recommended by people you trust.

Looking for a contractor recommendation? Call Alisa Sakamoto 604.644.1044

I just finished uploading this Condo for sale, 108 6651 Lynas Lane, Riverdale, Richmond

Fabulous, SPACIOUS & BRIGHT 2 bed condo located in a quiet and sought-after neighbourhood in the Westside of Richmond. Upgraded w/ laminate flooring, appliances, counters & cabinets. Entertainment sized living room which opens onto a HUGE sunny, south facing covered balcony – perfect for BBQ’s and year round enjoyment. 2 good sized bdrms - Master boasts a walk-thru closet to the cheater ensuite! Next to Thompson Community Center, sports facilities & Burnett School. Minutes from the Dyke & Quilchena golf course. Strata fee includes city utilities. Well maintained building with newer roof, carpets, exterior paint, boiler, building envelope water management system redone and updated laundry facilities. Perfect for first time buyers OR investors! Rentals & pets allowed. Don't miss out on this!

Congrats to my happy Sellers!  We did it! Sold their townouse for over asking in just a few days - 49 13918 58 AVENUE, Panorama Ridge, Surrey

View this recently sold Townhouse or see all my home sales