I prioritize relationships over transactions in my approach to real estate. Commencing my career in 2006 with Remax Crown Real Estate in Regina, I have steadfastly built a Regina real estate business based on this principle. My commitment is centred on delivering personalized one-on-one service, seeking to grasp your unique needs and real estate objectives comprehensively. I am dedicated to being 100% accountable to you throughout the entire process. In my most recent real estate tip, I offer insights on optimizing every space in your home to ensure a successful sale.

Selling your home is an exciting but challenging process. In a competitive real estate market, making your property stand out and appeal to potential buyers is essential. One effective strategy is to unlock the potential of every space in your home, showcasing its versatility and functionality. Follow these home-selling tips to maximize the appeal of every nook and cranny, creating a lasting impression on prospective buyers.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize:

Before diving into the details of each space, start with a clean slate. Decluttering and depersonalizing your home allow potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. Remove personal items, excessive furniture, and unnecessary decorations. A streamlined and neutral environment makes it easier for buyers to see the potential of each room.

2. Define Each Room's Purpose:

Clearly define the purpose of each room to highlight its functionality. If you've been using a spare room as a storage space, consider transforming it into a home office, guest room, or workout area. This helps buyers visualize how they can utilize the space, making it more appealing and valuable in their eyes.

3. Lighting Matters:

Proper lighting can dramatically enhance the perceived size and atmosphere of a room. Ensure that each space is well-lit by combining natural and artificial lighting. Replace outdated fixtures, clean windows, and consider using mirrors strategically to reflect light and create a brighter, more inviting atmosphere.

4. Neutral Colors and Cohesive Design:

Painting is a cost-effective way to refresh a space and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Stick to neutral colours that create a clean, cohesive look throughout the home. Consistent design elements, such as matching hardware or cohesive decor, can tie different spaces together, providing a harmonious flow.

5. Furniture Arrangement:

Reevaluate your furniture arrangement to maximize the functionality and flow of each room. Avoid blocking natural pathways and ensure that the furniture complements the room's size. Create conversational groupings in living spaces and arrange bedroom furniture to highlight the room's purpose and size.

6. Showcase Unique Features:

Every home has unique features that can be accentuated to captivate potential buyers. Whether it's a cozy nook, a built-in shelving unit, or a picturesque window, draw attention to these features. Arrange furniture and decor to emphasize these points of interest, creating memorable focal points that make your home stand out.

7. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions:

Buyers appreciate ample storage space. Invest in innovative storage solutions to showcase the functionality of closets, cabinets, and other storage areas. Consider installing shelving or organizers to maximize space and create a clutter-free environment.

By unlocking the potential of every space in your home, you increase its overall appeal and help potential buyers envision themselves living there. Taking the time to declutter, define room purposes, enhance lighting, use neutral colours, arrange furniture thoughtfully, highlight unique features, and invest in storage solutions can significantly attract and impress prospective buyers. These home-selling tips will expedite the selling process and increase the perceived value of your property in the eyes of potential buyers.

Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest advice, I will be an expert at your side. 

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with Remax Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is to provide personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and be 100% accountable to you. My latest real estate tip concerns two recently announced Saskatchewan Government initiatives to tackle housing affordability in Saskatchewan. 

In a significant move to tackle housing affordability and revitalize the construction sector, the Government of Saskatchewan launched two new initiatives in the fall of 2023: the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) Rebate for New Home Construction and the Secondary Suite Incentive (SSI) grant program. These programs, aimed at providing substantial cost savings for homeowners, are anticipated to breathe new life into the housing market across the province. Let's delve into Saskatchewan's initiatives aimed at enhancing housing affordability.

The PST Rebate for New Home Construction

Recognizing the pivotal role of homeownership in wealth accumulation, Saskatchewan has rolled out the PST Rebate for New Home Construction. This program extends a rebate of up to 42% on the PST paid for newly constructed homes. Applicable to contracts signed or new housing starts after April 1, 2023, this rebate is a boon for prospective homeowners. Eligible homes priced below $550,000 (excluding land and certain costs) witness a sliding rebate percentage within the $450,000 to $550,000 range. Homeowners must occupy these new homes by April 1, 2026, and submit rebate applications by March 31, 2027.

The Secondary Suite Incentive Grant Program

As another innovative measure, the SSI grant program aims to incentivize homeowners to construct secondary suites in their primary residences. Offering a grant covering 35% of the construction cost (up to $35,000), this program seeks to alleviate mortgage burdens for homeowners while providing affordable rental options. The qualifying suite, whether in a basement, garden, laneway, or garage, must include essential amenities and comply with all relevant bylaws and standards.

Together, these programs have the potential to provide qualifying homeowners with up to $46,340 in savings, representing a significant stride toward making housing more affordable in Saskatchewan. The PST rebate eases the financial burden of purchasing new homes, while the SSI grant facilitates the creation of rental units, effectively addressing both housing affordability and rental availability concerns.

The Government of Saskatchewan acknowledges the challenges posed by the current economic climate and recognizes the necessity for targeted measures to support homeownership. By assisting homeowners and promoting construction, these programs not only enhance individual financial security but also contribute to the broader economic well-being of the province.

Eligibility and Application Process

Interested homeowners should take note that while the rebate program is already in effect, the SSI program will open for applications in January 2024, with more information forthcoming. Both programs ' comprehensive eligibility criteria and application details are available on their respective web pages. Saskatchewan's introduction of the PST Rebate for New Home Construction and the Secondary Suite Incentive grant program stands as a laudable effort to ensure housing affordability and spur the construction industry, setting a potential precedent for other regions grappling with similar challenges.

Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest advice, I will be an expert at your side. 

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with Remax Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and be 100% accountable to you. My latest real estate tip is a festive-focused one! 

As the winter season moves in, navigating the real estate market in Saskatchewan can present unique challenges. Here's a valuable tip from your Regina expert Realtor to help you make the most of this season when buying or selling your home:

Embrace Winter Curb Appeal 

While it's true that the vibrant colours of spring and summer might not be as prominent in December, there's a unique charm to a winter landscape that you can use to your advantage. Make your property stand out with these strategies:

Snow Removal: Remove your driveway, walkways, and entrance from snow and ice. Buyers will appreciate easy access to your home, showing you're diligent about maintenance.

Exterior Lighting: With shorter daylight hours, outdoor lighting becomes crucial. Consider adding some well-placed, tasteful lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere during showings, especially in the evenings.

Winter-Ready Landscaping Highlight the beauty of your yard even in winter. Place potted evergreens, winter-blooming plants, or seasonal decorations near your entrance to create a welcoming first impression.

Comfort and Warmth When showing your home set a cozy and inviting atmosphere indoors. Use throw blankets, warm colours, and even a lit fireplace if available. Make potential buyers feel at home as soon as they step inside.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts Make sure your gutters are free of leaves and debris. This ensures proper drainage and prevents icicles from forming, which could deter potential buyers.

Heating and Insulation Highlight the energy efficiency and effectiveness of your home's heating system. A warm and comfortable home is a major selling point during the chilly Saskatchewan winter.

Staging: Emphasize Space  With holiday decorations, it's easy for homes to feel cluttered. Keep your decorations tasteful and minimal so potential buyers can appreciate the space.

Flexible Showings  Be accommodating with your showing schedule. With the holidays and potential weather disruptions, it might be necessary to be flexible with showing times.

Selling or buying a home in December in Regina, Saskatchewan, can be a unique and rewarding experience. The key is to embrace the season and use it to your advantage. By following these tips, you can make the most of the winter real estate market and find the perfect home or buyer for your property. 

Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest advice, I will be an expert at your side. 

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with Remax Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and be 100% accountable to you. In my latest real estate tip, I discuss the accuracy of automated property evaluation software on Real Estate websites. 

FAQ: Can You Get an Accurate House Evaluation from a Realtor Website?

In today's digital age, obtaining information about real estate has become easier than ever, thanks to the plethora of real estate websites available. One common feature these websites offer is the ability to get an estimated house evaluation with just a few clicks. However, the question arises: Can you truly rely on these online evaluations for accuracy? This blog post will delve into the pros and cons of using realtor websites for house evaluations and provide insights into their reliability.

Pros of Using Realtor Websites for House Evaluations:

Convenience: Realtor websites offer quick and easy access to estimated house values, giving users an instant idea of their property's worth.

General Market Trends: These websites often incorporate data from recent property sales and market trends, providing a snapshot of the current real estate landscape.

Initial Benchmark: Online evaluations can serve as a starting point to gauge the potential value of a house before engaging with real estate professionals.

Cons of Using Realtor Websites for House Evaluations:

Limited Data: Online evaluations rely on algorithms and publicly available data, which might not capture all the specific features and conditions of a property that can affect its value.

Local Nuances: Real estate is highly localized, and the value of a property can be influenced by factors not considered by generic algorithms, such as neighbourhood dynamics, school quality, and local amenities.

Lack of Personalization: Online evaluations lack the ability to account for unique aspects of a property that can impact its value, such as renovations, upgrades, or maintenance.

Fluctuating Accuracy: The accuracy of online evaluations can vary significantly. They might overestimate or underestimate a property's value due to limitations in the algorithms used.

Professional Expertise: Realtor websites can't replace the nuanced insights provided by experienced real estate agents who intimately understand the local market.

So How Do You Find Balance?

While real estate and realtor websites can provide a rough estimate of a property's value, they should be used as just one tool in the valuation process. To get a more accurate assessment, it's advisable to consult with a Trusted local real estate professional like James Wruth, who can consider both the online estimate and additional factors that influence property value.

Realtor websites offer a convenient way to obtain an initial house evaluation, but their accuracy is limited due to their reliance on algorithms and general data. For a more precise valuation that considers local nuances and property-specific features, contact James Wruth. He can provide the guidance of a knowledgeable Regina real estate expert, which will always remain invaluable. Balancing the convenience of online evaluations with the expertise of a local professional is the key to making well-informed real estate decisions.

Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest advice, I will be an expert at your side. 

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with REMAX Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I provide some expert real estate tips that stand the test of time. 

Whether it’s buying, selling, or renting, a real estate transaction is a big undertaking. 

Since I started my career in real estate, the market has seen significant shifts. Over the last several years, many parts of the Country have seen a sellers’ market, complete with multiple and “bully” offers, and record-high prices. Of course, there was (and is) the pandemic, which did not have the expected cooling effect on the market. And now, in early 2023, we are seeing the repercussions of increasing inflation and a buyers’ market.

No matter what kind of market we are in, however, my essential tips remain the same.

1. Understand the market. You’ve seen it in the news. Canada's housing market is cooling. In Regina and Saskatchewan we didn't see the crazy market and price increases that impacted buyers in Toronto and Vancouver,  so now may be a more favorable time for buyers than sellers. However, it’s equally important to bear in mind that property values do fluctuate over time.

2. Assess your finances and priorities. Ask yourself these important questions: How much can you afford for a down payment and mortgage? How is your credit score? How much responsibility are you comfortable with? Do you care more about equity or having the freedom to move?

3. Set a clear budget. Make sure to account for the extra costs that come with buying a home — such as legal fees, land transfer tax, and utility costs.

4. Choose a Regina Real Estate Expert you can trust! 

Partner up with me, I’m a top Regina RE/MAX Agent, and an experienced Regina REALTOR® 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, I will be an expert at your side.

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with REMAX Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I share information for new immigrants to Regina who may be seeking information about what is required to purchase a property in the Queen City! 

Are you new to Canada and wondering if you’re eligible to buy a house in Saskatchewan?

First and foremost—congrats! Let me be the first to welcome you to this great province of ours! 

Question: Can you purchase a home as a new immigrant? 

The answer? YES!  As a newcomer to Canada, you can buy a home, even if you have immigrated here very recently. Plus, new immigrants to Canada can often qualify for a mortgage, so long as all standard financial requirements are met.

1. Anyone in Canada who can afford the costs of homeownership is eligible to own a home. In fact, you do not have to be a resident or citizen to own a home. 

2. You must abide by Canadian taxation and real estate laws. 

Most Canadian banks and lenders are more than happy to work with newcomers, even if they don’t have an established Canadian credit history. Canada is actually one of a handful of countries in the world where non-residents can qualify for a mortgage—they can even be at the same interest rates as citizens. Some of the larger lenders and banks have dedicated newcomer mortgage programs to help you finance your first home, as they understand the challenges that you might face. 

PRE-APPROVAL - THE FIRST STEP. 

In Canada, most banks and mortgage lenders offer pre-approval, which is a process where you learn the maximum loan amount for which you can qualify. This process also helps you estimate your potential mortgage payments. Sometimes, lenders will even let you lock in a current interest rate for up to 4 months!

To get pre-approved for a mortgage, you normally have to provide information about your income, assets, debts, and current employment information.

After you submit this information, a lender will assess your application and either approve or refuse your request within about 5 business days. If approved, you can start shopping for a home in Saskatchewan that falls within your pre-approval value limits. 

Time to start looking for your new home in Regina and area?  

During this stage, you’ll likely want to enlist the help of an experienced Regina real estate agent. When you are ready to make an offer on your desired property they will help you navigate all of the paperwork and processes involved. Making an offer on a house in Saskatchewan generally involves a deposit. The deposit and the down payment are different. Homebuyers provide a deposit at the time of making an offer to demonstrate to the sellers that they’re serious buyers but be warned, you would generally lose your deposit if you walk away from the agreement before the sale is finalized. 

The deposit amount is rolled into your down payment when you close on the house. The down payment is the total amount that you put down on your home in cash as part of the mortgage lending process-  In Canada, the minimum down payment is 5% for properties up to $500,000, but some lenders may require more. When the purchase price is above $500,000, the minimum down payment is 5% for the first $500,000 and 10% for the remaining portion.

If you were pre-approved for a loan, you’ll continue working with your lender to get your mortgage formally approved. This normally happens within a few weeks. Your realtor will assist you with organizing your home inspection, signing any necessary paperwork, and finalizing your home purchase.

LAST STEP Enjoy your new home and I hope you enjoy living the Canadian dream in your new home

Partner up with me, I’m a top Regina RE/MAX Agent, and an experienced Regina REALTOR® 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, I will be an expert at your side.

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with REMAX Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I share five New Year’s Real Estate resolutions! 

Are you planning to sell your home in the new year?

Regardless of season or market conditions, remember that you only have one chance to make a good first impression. Make it memorable for all the right reasons. Before listing your home, commit to these five New Year’s Resolutions to help ensure the quickest sale for the highest price.

Mark Your Calendar

Set your listing date well in advance to help you anticipate, plan and prepare to sell your home. The process of changing homes has a lot of moving parts and is a coordinated effort between you and your team of experts. Think real estate agent, lender, lawyer, home inspector, trades, movers… the list continues. This is especially the case if you’ll also be buying a new home at the same time, as many people do. Reach out to a selling agent early on in the process to discuss your options, get important advice and get the ball rolling.

Repair and Replace

When planning to sell your home, assess its condition and make repairs before listing. Cracked drywall, stained carpets, burned-out light bulbs and other minor damage is easy to fix and won’t break the bank, but left un-repaired, could impact offers. TIP: It can be tough to evaluate your own home. Have your agent or a friend tour your home and offer constructive criticism. Find out which renovations offer the best return on investment here.

Get Comparables

Three to six months before your home hits the market, wave your agent start scanning comparable listings to get a ballpark price estimate. Keep in mind that a variety of factors may affect your home’s selling price, like lot size; landscaping and interior finishes; proximity to busy streets, public transit, schools and parks; or supply and demand in the marketplace. Your agent will assess your home just prior to listing, to ensure you set the right price to attract serious buyers.

Cut the Clutter

A cluttered home can suggest lack of space, which can impact offers. Depending on lifestyle and length of time spent in the home, this can be a big undertaking. Take it step by step, room by room, and you’ll get through it. Be honest about what you want, need and love, and what you can do without. The bonus? You won’t have to pack, move and clutter your new home with stuff you don’t want.

Stage to Sell

When it’s time to sell your home, stage it to show it in the best possible light. This includes packing up family photos and personal m (prospective buyers want to picture themselves in the home, not you!), putting the non-essential items into storage (or the donation bin!) and perhaps renting some furnishings that take your home to the next level. Your agent may offer staging as part of their suite of services, or will be able to put you in touch with a professional stager to help get the job done.

Hiring the right real estate agent is key to a successful sale, and it’s important to know that many agents specialize in listing homes versus helping you buy a home

Ready to sell the house you love? Partner up with me, I’m a top Regina RE/MAX Agent, and as an experienced Regina REALTOR® I can support you by inserting a degree of professional separation.

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, I will be an expert at your side.

Owning a house is like ‘being in a long-term relationship’, so it can be hard to break up! 

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006 with REMAX Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time, I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you and your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I acknowledge that selling a home you love is NOT easy. 

Breakin' Up Is Hard To Do! 

So goes the famous Neil Sedaka song... and sometimes that is the truth!  

You grew up in that home, or you raised your own family inside those four walls, so when it’s time to move on, downsize or sell for a multitude of reasons, it can very hard emotionally to let go! 

Another reason why a breakup with your home is hard to go through can be explained by the Endowment Effect. This economic theory finds that people overvalue what they already own. They are comfortable with the status quo and feel threatened by change and the unfamiliar, which makes losing or parting from what they have particularly difficult. Now, they believe that their loss is more than it actually is.

Sure, this house was perfect, but the home selling and buying process isn’t finding “the one” that sticks around forever. It’s more about finding the home that fits your needs best based on your current situation. That gets easier if you can feel good about your next decision and give yourself closure over the past—so let’s dive into 5 tips to help you work through it.

Tip #1: Make sure you’re ready to ' FOLD It' from a financial perspective

When you mix money and love, things get complicated. Just ask the 1 in 5 partners who choose to keep their finances separate. Applying this division of church and state to selling the house can suck some of the emotion out of the process.

Above how you feel about the selling situation, you need to figure out the hard financials and timing of this sale. Can you afford to sell this home and buy another, and is now the time to do it?

You can start by getting a ballpark figure for what your home would go for in the current market. Then, factor in your expenses like home prep, repairs, and agent commissions. Make sure that after you sell the house, you’ll have enough money to pay off the mortgage and then some, ideally enough for a sizable down payment on the next house.

Then, find out if it’s the best time to sell your home in your market. Depending on where you live, seasonality makes a big impact—in fact, data shows that selling at an opportune moment can help you increase your profits significantly.

Take away?
 
Similar to a relationship break-up, selling a home shouldn’t be a rash, spur of the moment decision. 

Tip#2: Reframe your mindset to focus on your ‘Why’

The first question I ask my seller clients is, “Why Are you Selling?”

Maybe you crave the carefree lifestyle that apartment/ condo living can provide, perhaps you want to move to be closer to the grandkids, or maybe you have to buy somewhere bigger to give your family more breathing room.

Take Away?

Focusing on the logic of your reason and your why, makes it easier to harness your attention to the future. Reframe your home sale as change (good change!) rather than loss. Then, selling your house becomes an opportunity for you to move on to a different chapter of your life.

Tip #3: Keep living your best life BUT keep on keeping up with the Jones's 

The last thing you want to do after you decide to sell your house is to wallow in regrets and neglect home selling responsibilities.

Oftentimes, home sellers are also buyers, so their home purchase is contingent on their home sale. You must make sure that your home looks it's best. Then, take steps to detach from what you used to call your home. Trust your real estate agent and start the staging process. See how furniture works in different arrangements, change up the decor, and paint the walls neutral colors to begin depersonalizing the house without giving yourself whiplash. - you can find some helpful tips on curating curb appeal in the Regina real estate article I wrote about Selling A Home in A Slow Market 

Once you have put effort into making the property look it's very best,  you can channel your emotions and efforts toward figuring out what your future will look like, in terms of the house and your new neighborhood. That way, your next home becomes a productive distraction that will help you get over the initial home sale.

Take Away?
 
Be sure to keep up with maintenance and to work with your realtor to get the best price for both your existing property AND the new one!  

Tip #4: Do the Emotional work

So, when you sell your house, don’t be afraid to:

• Walk-through your home and revisit old memories.

• Reflect on how the house has served its purpose for however long you lived there.

• Talk about how you loved living here with your spouse, children, and family members.

This type of processing helps you to accept your emotions throughout the home sale. If you want to keep a snapshot of the home, take photos and use those as emotional anchors for you to look back on in the future.
 

Take Away?

It is healthy to mourn a loss!   

Tip #5: Get proper closure

When selling a house, you don’t want to walk away with unfinished business or bitterness. You might not be emotionally prepared for the change, but don’t demand buyers to overpay for your home or leave the home in a sloppy state. Be respectful to the next set of homeowners, and take the time to get everything in shipshape for the final walkthrough.

A proper goodbye can also include a “house-cooling party” that lets you invite friends and family to your home for one last time before handing over the keys. Those who are important to you also have a chance to say goodbye to you and the home. Just don't go crazy, as the last thing you want is wine stains on those newly cleaned carpets! 

Take Away?

Ready to sell the house you love? Partner up with me, I’m a top Regina RE/MAX Agent, and as an experienced Regina REALTOR® I can support you by inserting a degree of professional separation.

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, I will be an expert at your side.

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions I started a career in real estate in 2006 with REMAX Crown Real Estate In Regina, and since that time I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you, and your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I share Your home is one of the biggest investments of your life. When you’re ready to buy or sell, choose wisely—choose me, James Wruth REMAX Crown Regina Real Estate Agent. In my latest Regina real estate tip I share 7 tips on how to sell your home in a slower market. 

7 Helpful Tips To Help Sell Your Home in a Slow Market

TD’s latest Provincial Housing Market Outlook, released at the end of June 2022 , projected that home prices in Canada are set for a further fall in the current rising-rates environment, with a 19% peak-to-trough decline anticipated between the first quarter of this year and Q1 2023. That report indicated little prospect of an overall housing market meltdown, a pointed to more of a slowing down.  Since as a seller, you can’t wave a magic wand to change the state of the economy or suddenly increase the pace of home sales, you’ll need to channel your competitive side and think of this as your next challenge. Even in sluggish markets, houses still sell. Make yours one that does with the right game plan that swerves to avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake #1: Minimal Property Preparation

You need to clean, declutter and stage your home or your dooming your sale from the start. No matter which type of market you’re facing, you’ll need to deep clean and declutter to meet the bare minimum buyer expectations. However, In a buyer’s market, don’t be surprised if you have to go beyond that to tackle a handful of repairs and upgrades to make your home’s desirability rise above the competition. As far as the final presentation goes, top agents will share that a staged home sells faster than an unstaged home, and good staging can increase your sales price.

Mistake #2: Maintenance neglect

You don’t need to break the bank on improvements that’ll cost more than they add in value, like a full kitchen or bathroom renovation. But in a slow market, you should deal with any deferred maintenance you’ve put off over the course of ownership, whether it be leaky plumbing, a wobbly ceiling fan, or mold issue in the basement. Look over your home very objectively. In a slow market, you’ll reduce hassles and increase your chances of securing an offer if you take care of outstanding maintenance yourself. But if you don’t have the upfront funds to take care of necessary repairs, you’ll have to disclose any known material defects and then compensate for the issue with an appropriate pricing strategy. 

Mistake #3: Amateur photography

In this digital age where 93% of buyers use online websites to house hunt, it’s critical that your online listing photos be on point. Make sure that the pictures taken reflect your home in the BEST light! 

Mistake #4: The Price Must Be Right

Overpricing can hamper your sale in any market condition, but when you’re selling in a buyer’s market it can completely kill your chances of selling at all.

So don’t make the mistake of simply listing at the same price (or higher) than recent comparative properties have sold for. Listen to your Regina real estate agent and TRUST the data to find the right list price to help your home sell fast even in a competitive market.

Mistake #5: Mediocre marketing

Great photos and the right price can only go so far to get your house sold—if no one knows about your listing.

Selling in a slow market isn’t easy, so putting your property in front of as many buyers as possible is key, The responsibility of selling your home does not come lightly to me. I understand the effort and challenges that surround the decision to sell your current property, and I will provide the real estate expertise, resources and strategies to guide you through it seamlessly. I have a broad marketing mix and I work hard to get the property in front of as many of the RIGHT prospects as possible!  

Mistake #6: Restricting buyers’ access to your home

No one likes to be told to get out of their own home, but that’s what you’ll need to put up with while your home is on the market.

Develop a showings strategy that includes quick and easy cleaning wipes, portable bathroom caddies, and lidded storage bins, so that you can quickly clean and hide away your toiletries and personal items on just an hour’s notice. Don’t refuse to have a lock box on your house, or demand outlandish access restrictions, like requiring half a day’s notice before showings. The more foot traffic, the better.
 

Mistake #7: Stubborn negotiations

Even once you’ve received and accepted a decent offer in a competitive buyer’s market, you’ll need to get through the buyer’s home inspection and the back-and-forth on repair requests. In a slow market, buyers are picky, and finicky, and not as committed to the home sale as the seller. They’ll walk away over the smallest things because they know there are plenty of other properties out there. 

Selling in a slow market: Have an expert at your side

If life were a fairytale, you sell your house whenever you want and at the price you want. In real life, sellers are at the mercy of the market.

Plus, every house is different. What it takes to sell your house in a slow market could be different than your neighbour’s situation. When in doubt, work with a top Regina real estate agent with experience in your area and property type to navigate tough decisions. 

Contact me today, I am here to help!  

• Read More Reviews From James's Clients Here 

• SELL Your Home With James Wruth. 

• See The Regina Real Estate Market Trends

• Search For A Home On James' Website 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, I will be an expert at your side.