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James Wruth Shares Insider Real Estate Tips and Opportunities

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. I aim to provide 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 share some expert insights and real estate opportunities for both buyers and sellers! 

Navigating the dynamic realm of real estate requires staying abreast of evolving trends, a crucial endeavour for buyers and sellers. This article delves into a wide-ranging array of expert insights designed to address the distinctive challenges and prospects within the real estate industry. These tips can help you better anticipate the trends shaping the 2024 real estate landscape, whether you are a home buyer or seller.

Homebuyer Tips

Embrace Technological Advancements

These days, technology plays an integral role in the home-buying process. Virtual reality tours, augmented reality applications, and online platforms offer immersive experiences, enabling buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their homes. Maintaining a tech-savvy approach streamlines your search and facilitates informed decisions. 

Neighbourhood Trends

Beyond individual properties, understanding trends in specific neighbourhoods is paramount. Accessing information about local schools, amenities, and future development plans significantly influences decision-making. Work with a knowledgeable local agent and engage with community platforms to comprehensively understand the property, neighbourhood, and community dynamics.

Explore Flexible Financing Options

Tailor your research to financing options that align with your needs. Given fluctuating interest rates and evolving mortgage products, collaborating closely with financial advisors is essential for securing the best deal. A solid understanding of the economic landscape ensures a purchase that aligns with your long-term goals. Prioritize communication with mortgage brokers and financial advisors to make informed decisions.

Prioritize Home Inspection

Invest time and resources in a thorough home inspection that goes beyond standard checklists. To avoid post-purchase surprises, focus on potential future issues, such as plumbing and electrical systems. Patience in closing on your dream house, coupled with a meticulous home inspection, can prevent costly repairs in the initial year of homeownership.

Insights for Sellers

Enhance Digital Presence 

Collaborate with a local REALTOR® who crafts an engaging marketing campaign with high-quality photos, engaging descriptions and a marketing plan! A robust online presence attracts potential buyers and sets your property apart, potentially leading to a faster and more competitive sale. Be sure to choose a realtor that is more than just posting- list, list, list, sell, sell, sell ( and most definitely avoid one that does not post online at all!). Choose a local real estate expert who provides tips, insights, information and education - one who builds a following, is friendly and builds a brand people can trust! 

Strategic Pricing

In a dynamic market, pricing becomes pivotal. Leverage data analytics and consult with an experienced real estate professional to determine the optimal pricing strategy for your property. Competitive pricing facilitates quicker sales, while strategic negotiations ensure you receive the best value for your home.

Prioritize Energy Efficiency

Acknowledge the increasing importance of environmental considerations. Make your home more sustainable by incorporating eco-friendly elements like high-efficiency furnaces, energy-efficient windows, appliances, and smart home systems. These features not only add value but also broaden your potential buyer pool. There are government grants available to assist! 

Curb Appeal Matters

First impressions are crucial. Invest in enhancing your property's curb appeal with well-maintained landscaping, fresh paint, and an inviting entrance. A visually appealing exterior significantly influences a buyer's decision.


In the intricate world of real estate, adaptation to the evolving landscape is imperative for both buyers and sellers. The trends in 2024 underscore the importance of embracing technology, staying informed about neighbourhood dynamics, and exploring flexible financing options for buyers. On the other hand, sellers can distinguish their properties by enhancing their digital presence, adopting strategic pricing, incorporating energy-efficient features, and prioritizing curb appeal. Armed with these insider tips, confidently navigate the 2024 real estate landscape.


Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent and an experienced &  Trusted Regina REALTOR®. 

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. 

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Wonder How Accurate Online Property Evaluations On Real Estate Websites Are?

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 and an experienced Trusted Regina REALTOR®. 

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. 



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Why Choose James Wruth As Your Regina Realtor ?

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 share the top 6 reasons to choose me as your Regina realtor

Top Reasons to Choose James Wruth - Your Remax Crown Real Estate Agent in Regina


When it comes to buying or selling real estate in Saskatchewan, having the right agent by your side can make all the difference. James Wruth, a Trusted Regina Remax Crown real estate agent, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the table. In this blog post, we'll explore the compelling reasons why choosing James Wruth as your Remax agent in Regina is a smart decision for your real estate needs.

1. Local Expertise:
Navigating the real estate market in Regina,Saskatchewan requires an in-depth understanding of the local neighborhoods, property values, and market trends. James Wruth's extensive knowledge of the area gives him a competitive edge when helping clients buy or sell properties. His insights can help you make informed decisions, whether you're looking for your dream home or aiming to sell at the best price.

2. Proven Track Record:
With a history of successful real estate transactions, James has built a reputation for delivering results. His dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients is evident in the numerous satisfied testimonials and repeat business he receives. When you choose James, you're enlisting the services of a professional who is committed to your real estate success.

3. Personalized Approach:
Every client's real estate journey is unique, and James understands this well. He takes the time to listen to your goals, preferences, and concerns, tailoring his services to meet your specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that you receive the attention and guidance necessary to achieve your real estate objectives.

4. Effective Negotiation Skills:
Negotiation is a critical aspect of real estate transactions, and having a skilled negotiator on your side can save you time and money. James Wruth's proven negotiation skills help you secure the best deal, whether you're buying your dream home or selling your property. His strategic approach maximizes your advantage in negotiations.

5. Comprehensive Marketing:
Selling a property involves more than just listing it on a website. James Wruth employs a comprehensive marketing strategy to showcase your property's best features and attract potential buyers. From professional photography to engaging property descriptions, to being a Trusted Regina Realtor. This means his online and social media marketing efforts are ampilfied tremendously, reaching 10,000's more local prospects via the Trusted Regina platforms.His marketing efforts ensure that your property receives the attention it deserves in the highly competitive Regina real estate market.

6. Trusted Network:
Over the years, James Wruth has built strong relationships within the real estate industry and the Saskatchewan community. These connections can be invaluable when it comes to accessing off-market listings, local service providers, and other resources that contribute to a smooth real estate experience.


Choosing James Wruth as your Remax Canada agent in Regina, Saskatchewan is a decision that brings expertise, dedication, and a personalized touch to your real estate journey. With his local insights, proven track record, negotiation skills, and comprehensive marketing approach, James is well-equipped to guide you through the complexities of buying or selling property in Saskatchewan. When you work with James Wruth, you're not just getting a real estate agent – you're gaining a Trusted partner who is committed to your success.

Partner with me; I'm a top Regina RE/MAX Agent and an experienced Trusted Regina REALTOR®. 

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. 



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New to Canada and wondering if you’re eligible to buy a house in Regina Saskatchewan?

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 am a Trusted Regina Realtor and a top REMAX Crown Real Estate Agent



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December 2022 Regina Real Estate Market Stats From James Wruth

Greetings Friends,

I am pleased to be able to share my 2022 December Regina Real Estate Market Report! 


DECEMBER 2022 Monthly Housing Market Trends Report



How Does This Compare to National Data? 

 


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James Wruth Real Estate Advice About Selling Your Property in The New Year

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. I am a Trusted Regina Realtor and a top REMAX Crown Real Estate Agent



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Regina November 2022 Market Trends From James Wruth

Greetings Friends,

I am pleased to be able to share my 2022 November Regina Real Estate Market Report! 


NOVEMBER 2022 Monthly Housing Market Trends Report



How Does This Compare to National Data? 

 


Read

August 2022 Regina Monthly Housing Market Trends Report

Greetings Friends,

I am pleased to be able to share my 2022 August Regina Real Estate Market Report! 


August 2022 Monthly Housing Market Trends Report




How Does This Compare to National Data? 

As a consequence of the Bank of Canada’s rate hikes, the Canadian housing market is on the verge of a cliff, as rapidly rising mortgage rates threaten the stability of Canadian home values. The average home price in Canada was $629,971 in July 2022, a decrease of 5% from the previous year and 5% from the previous month. This is a stunning turnaround from the extraordinary price rises seen earlier in the year when a new record was reached in February of 2022. Canada’s average home price has decreased for the sixth consecutive month. Compared to the peak of $816,720 in February 2022, the average sales price in Canada has decreased by 23%. In the previous five months, the average Canadian home price has plummeted by 23%, or around $190,000. However, the MLS Benchmark Price continues to increase annually. In July 2022, the national average home price in Canada increased by 7% year-over-year to $782,300 but fell by 3% month-over-month.


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James Wruth Shares The Importance Of Being A RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Agent In Regina

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 the advantages of working with a REMAX Crown Real Estate Agent in Regina. 

Why I am proud to be your RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Agent in Regina.


Buying or selling a home is likely the largest and most important transaction you’ll ever make. That’s why so many people trust RE/MAX:  the most widely recognized real estate brand in the world. For more than 20 years, RE/MAX has been the leading real estate organization in Canada. By providing the best training, administrative and marketing support, brokers and agents are free to focus on what they do best: SELL real estate

As a RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Agent, I am focused on providing you with the best results and service in the industry. I listen carefully to understand your real estate goals and work hard to create solutions that make sense for you. Whether you are new to the market or an experienced investor, I have the expertise, proven track record, and resources to help you achieve your real estate goals. A common mantra in real estate is “location, location, location.” REMAX agents have extensive knowledge of the Regina area and can help find the right home for you or the right buyer for your home.

As a RE/MAX agent, I am supplied with exclusive tools and training to ensure I have the skills they need to effectively guide you through the real estate process. In fact, Canadian RE/MAX agents averaged twice as many transactions as its competitors. (based on 2015 closed transactions source: CREA, RE/MAX) and have more specialized designations than any others, making them Canada’s most productive agents.

Tech Savvy

RE/MAX has always been a leader in the real estate industry, adopting the latest technology and creating innovative marketing programs. RE/MAX was the first brand to expand its reach to the global market through a revolutionary global listing site. With listings from more than 80 countries, displayed in over 40 languages, RE/MAX agents have the opportunity to search and post listings internationally, making international transactions easier than ever.

Community 

At the heart of RE/MAX is a deep commitment to the communities we operate in. This was another big reason why I was drawn to the brand as a new agent back in 2006. RE/MAX Crown Real Estate Agents succeed with dedication, experience and community involvement. As a team, we have raised thousands of dollars through charity work, and we channel those funds into local and regional children’s medical facilities to improve the quality of life in our local communities! 

All RE/MAX Agents display the Miracle Home sign on property listings. As we are committed to helping hospitalized children across our province and have pledged a portion of their income from the sale of that home to the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation

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.


Contact me today, I am here to help!  


  

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 am a Trusted Regina Realtor and a REMAX Crown Real Estate Agent



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Selling Your Home? James Provides 7 Expert Tips and Steps To Take

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions I started a career in real estate in 2006, 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 tips and tricks to help sell your home in Regina! 

GETTING THE BEST PRICE FOR YOUR REGINA PROPERTY

Hiring a Regina realtor who knows how to use the psychology of sales can really pay off. Choose an experienced real estate agent who understands how to use the art of negotiation, who can salvage a potentially sour deal, apply pressure and use other successful strategies to increase your sale price.  

1. ESTABLISH A PRICE

As a Seller, you may believe your property is worth more than the Realtor wants to Initially list it. An agent may agree to list your home at a higher price, but I am of the opinion that this should only apply if you agree to drop that price within a specified period (usually in 15-day increments). Realtors who use this technique may actually be looking out for your best interest. Agreeing on a plan to reduce the price gradually helps build rapport and trust with clients who may be stuck on a number. My job as a Regina realtor is to know the market and I do my research to make sure I know the optimum listing price for every property I agree to sell based on the individual seller's unique set of circumstances. 

2. PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE 

You need to shift your perspective and view your home through the eyes of the prospective buyers. Ask yourself what you would expect. My role as your Regina Real Estate agent will be to help guide you and give you tips on de-cluttering and other things that will help your home be more sellable. Now is not the time to be attached or sentimental about furniture, art and belongings. 

3. BE AVAILABLE FOR SHOWINGS 

Potential buyers may ask to see your home on short notice. It is best if you can accommodate these requests, you never want to miss a potential sale. After each showing, be assured that I will follow up with the people who viewed your home to hear their feedback, which I will share. 

4. YOU GET AN OFFER ...OR MULTIPLE OFFERS

If everything goes well, a buyer’s agent will present your agent with an offer. You have three choices – accept the offer, counter the offer or reject the offer. Be assured that my knowledge of your needs will enable me to represent you in the best way possible.

Next Steps!  

5. UNDER CONTRACT 

At this point, you have accepted an offer and have agreed to all the terms set forth in the contract.

6. CONDITIONAL PHASE 

When the agreement of purchase and sale is accepted and signed by all parties, the conditional phase begins. The buyers will have a pre-determined amount of time to fulfill items likely including home inspection, financing, home insurance, etc. The date the conditions are removed, you now have a firm and binding contract for the sale of your home.

SOLD!

7. CLOSING

This is the date of transfer of funds and ownership that was agreed upon in your binding contract. I will make sure that you know that you are packed up and ready to go before this date

Have questions about Selling Your Regina Property?
Contact me today, I am here to help!  


  

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 am a Trusted Regina Realtor and a REMAX Crown Real Estate agent

 
Source article : https://www.maxrealestateexposure.com/how-sell-house-relative-dies/ 

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James Explains The Process When Selling The Home Of A Deceased Family Member

I  believe that relationships are more important than transactions I started a career in real estate in 2006, 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 explain the process of selling the home of a family member who has passed. 

What Is The Process Involved When Selling The Home Of A Deceased Family Member? 


Unfortunately, I am all too aware that the death of a relative is always a hard time for the family left behind. Not only do you have to navigate the emotional turmoil that is present when someone you love passes,  but you may also have to deal with the inevitable real-world details – like liquidating assets and maybe even selling that person's home.

  1. The Importance Of An Up To Date Will
If you think their properties will automatically pass to their descendants when they die, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. If a homeowner dies without a will, or with a will that somehow fails to specify who the deceased’s property is meant for, what happens to the home becomes a provincial decision.

Saskatchewan Law 

Each province has its own formula for distributing the deceased’s assets that takes priority over the dead person’s wishes.

When a person dies intestate, typically the family will act as administrator of the estate. Section 11 of  The Administration of Estates Act lists the persons entitled to apply for Letters of Administration:

  • spouse; children & grandchildren
  • parents;
  • siblings; nephews and nieces;
  • next of kin of equal degree of consanguinity;
  • creditors; and the official administrator.

Letters of Administration may not be required to deal with assets that are not part of the estate (Part II Assets) such as property jointly owned with the deceased at the date of death, assets with a named beneficiary or assets outside Saskatchewan. Letters of Administration will be required if the estate assets include real estate in order to conduct any land transactions with Information Service Corporation.

Selling a home after a relative dies is what’s known as an “estate sale.”

The term “estate sale” can often be interpreted in different ways. For instance, if you are not a Realtor, you might be thinking that an estate sale is an auction where furniture and other possessions are liquidated.

Most real estate agents, on the other hand, think of an estate sale as selling a property for one of the heirs.

2. Transference of real estate after death.

So what happens when the home is going to be sold?

The first thing that needs to be done is to ensure the executor has been given authority to liquidate the real estate. There should be specific instructions in the will about selling the property.

First, look to see if the executor under the will was given power or authority over the real estate. If they were not given authority over the real estate, then the beneficiaries hold the authority and can sell the real estate without the executor’s consent.

Important note: 

If you are going to be selling an estate where there are more debts than assets, this is what’s called being insolvent. If this is your situation it is important NOT to pay any debts you don’t have to— If you pay some low-priority creditors, you could find you are personally liable for the amount you shouldn’t have paid out. For example, don’t pay the landscaper or the telephone bill. These should be paid by the executor once approved.

3. What Happens If there Is a Mortgage Outstanding?

A  majority of Canadian homeowners don’t know what happens to their mortgages when they die. Only 28 percent of respondents to a 2021 survey realize that their mortgage needs to be paid by the beneficiary who receives their properties. It does not disappear, unfortunately, although that’s exactly what 12 percent of survey respondents think happens to a mortgage when a borrower dies.

 

Property owners, particularly investors, must also keep in mind the tax bills awaiting their surviving family members. The CRA treats a dead individual’s assets as if they were all sold on the day prior to his death, meaning capital gains taxes on non-primary residents need to be paid – even if the home is left to a beneficiary. Joint ownership of a property with a spouse can provide a clean and legal workaround; otherwise, those left behind will need to foot the bill. 

4. Collect all the necessary documents related to the home.

One of the least enjoyable, but most necessary, things that those left behind need to do is collect all required financial documents. Financial documents are essential for the distribution of the estate, including the home. Without all the necessary documents things become much more complicated.

You may have to search for a while to find everything you need. Often all documents won’t be in the same place. Sometimes people will stash them in hidden places. It is worth the time to search everywhere, including crawl spaces, the attic, and the garage, go through all the boxes and files, and even look under the mattress and drawers.

The documents you will want to gather may include:

  • Will – As explained - If there is a will, it will significantly simplify the distribution of the estate.
  • Receipts from bills – You will need to freeze your relative’s credit and contact all creditors, including the three major credit reporting agencies.
  • Investment documents – Your relative may have had stocks and/or bonds.
  • Insurance documents – There may be a policy from an employer, or one purchased privately.
  • Homeowner’s policy – Keep homeowner’s insurance up to date and increase coverage if necessary.
  • Bank account documentation – You want accurate information on all of your relative’s bank accounts.
  • Personal documents – If your relative had any personal documents, like journals, poetry, etc., you might like to have them at a later date for sentimental reasons.

Once you have gathered all the documents you know, you will need, shred everything else that has personal information on it. It is a common thing for identity thieves to use the social security numbers of the deceased. By eliminating all documents with the number on it, you make identity theft more difficult.

4. Change The Locks and Mail Delivery

When selling a home as an estate sale, it is essential you have complete control of the property. This includes changing the mail, so you receive it in a timely fashion, along with enhancing the home’s security. Keep in mind there are going to be folks who know about the death that took place and the fact the home may be vacant.

You will be surprised how many keys have been given out on a property over the years. Whether it is friends, relatives, the babysitter or various contractors who have done work. It is better to be safe than sorry.

5. Hire a Regina Realtor To Help You Get the Home Ready For Market

After you have processed all the personal possessions of your relative, you will be ready for the actual sale. At this point, you will go through much the same steps as any other home seller – although some minor differences may apply.

I have found that often when selling a home that was owned by an older relative, or a house that has been occupied for decades, there is extra work involved in prepping for sale. This can be one of the most challenging parts of selling a deceased parent's home.

The house may be quite dated, including old wallpaper, decorations, carpet, paint, etc. It may also have damage that has gone unaddressed for a long time.

An experienced and reputable real estate agent will provide the best advice on what needs to be changed or repaired before you put the home on the market. If you want to get the best possible price, you may need to make some changes. The most common I see  include:

  • Getting rid of old furniture/ window coverings
  • Removing wallpaper
  • Changing dated flooring and/or refinishing hardwood floors
  • Applying a fresh coat of paint
  • Eliminating all signs of pet ownership, like stains and other damage
  • Installing new fixtures and updating lighting

In addition to any changes you make to the home, you are going to want to clean it thoroughly. There is nothing more critical to the sale of a home than a proper cleaning. I may also suggest professionally staging the property if there is not enough appropriate furniture/belongings left after the clean-up. 

Once the home is prepared for buyers, then we can go ahead and list it. As long as you have made the home desirable based on the current Regina and Rea Real estate market, you should be able to sell it for a fair price.

In Conclusion. 

A misunderstanding of what happens to a person’s property once they’ve died can cause extreme distress, both financial and emotional, for her surviving family members. So the best advice I can give is to have your will and paperwork in order as soon as you become a homeowner. In addition, you review your will on a regular basis to ensure it reflects your wishes. 

Have Questions about selling a home of a deceased family member? Contact me today, I am here to help!  


  

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 am a Trusted Regina Realtor 

 
Source article : https://www.maxrealestateexposure.com/how-sell-house-relative-dies/ 

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