You’ve been thinking about it, you’ve scoured MLS for other options out there, you may have even chatted with a real estate agent. Selling your home is a big deal, and you want to do it the right way, the first time, and that can mean something different for everyone depending on your goals. However, there are some things all homeowners have in common when trying to sell:

1. We all want to receive the highest possible price,

2. We want the process to minimize inconvenience, and

3. We want a realtor that is professional and treats us with the utmost respect

For any homeowner, pre-listing preparation can minimize the chances of failure and heartache when selling your home. Laying this groundwork will ensure the best possible experience and outcome.

Your first step to success is to suss out a few great agents that work in and are familiar with your neighbourhood. Recommendations from friends and neighbors is a great place to get names. The key point is to ensure the REALTOR® works and has a good track record in your neighbourhood. Don't hire an out of area realtor. You want someone who has the experience you need and can provide you with realistic market value estimates to best achieve the sale.

Second is the preparation of your home. Depending on your home’s overall condition, this is the step that requires the most time and attention. A home full of clutter, obvious wear and tear, and in disrepair can cost you big time when it comes to your asking price, so don't ignore this critical step.

During this “staging” step, I recommend being ruthless and getting rid of stuff you don't need. Call in Junk Removal or your charity of choice to take possessions you no longer require. Even closets and storage areas should be reduced of stuff you no longer need; serious buyers do tend to check out every nook and cranny of their potential buy.

Next, walk through your home and identify any wear and tear issues that need repair. Damaged walls, peeling paint, old water stains on ceilings, lose knobs, leaky faucets, dirty grout or mouldy shower enclosures are just a few common areas. We always suggest homeowners have their own pre-listing Home Inspection Report obtained. This will allow you to identify problem areas.

If your home was built prior to 1965 and you have no evidence that an oil tank was ever removed, then obtain a scan for a buried oil tank. This costs $100 - $150 and is worth every penny. Hire an oil tank removal specialist to do this.

Whether you're selling in January or July, make sure your gardens are groomed. A nicely groomed garden shows pride of ownership. Grass should be repaired if there are bare patches, and bushes and trees pruned. Having some winter flowers go a long way and don’t forget to clean out the gutters.

The research and staging of your home for sale can be overwhelming. This is where having a good REALTOR® familiar with your area is invaluable. They can help with your pre-listing checklist and assist in coordinating all the work that needs to be done.

So, when is best to take that final step and put the For Sale sign up? This is a more personal matter. The best time is when it's best for you, the homeowner. It's tough trying to time markets. If you live in Vancouver and you're looking to sell in 2016, here is what we do know:

1. Housing prices are at all-time highs and overall market sentiment is very positive.
2. The supply of homes on the market is very low.

Chinese New Year is quickly approaching and has proven to be a great time to sell in our market.

Low supply, strong demand, positive sentiment and Chinese New Year are ideal reasons to be on the market for sale by January 25th. If you need any help, advice or a professional opinion, contact us any time. We are always here to help your next real estate transaction be a big success! Make 2016 your year.

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year!

Andrew Hasman

A million dollar home in Vancouver is nothing new these days. $7 million and counting? Not as uncommon as you’d think, either. For your viewing pleasure, we’ve selected a few West Side properties that recently sold well above that mark. We hope you enjoy the view.

5055 Connaught Drive

This charming heritage mansion in Vancouver’s famed Shaughnessy neighbourhood sold for $7.5 million. With views of Burrard Inlet and Bowen Island, and a veranda for perfect sunset watching, the home features beautiful details of its bygone era in addition to numerous restorations. An honest-to-goodness ballroom, scrumptious-looking pasty box ceiling in the foyer with detailed moulding, and wainscotting throughout lend the 12,000 sq ft on 4 floors an air of cozy grandeur.

2988 Celtic Avenue

Valued at $8,295,000, the custom-built 4,500 sq ft Southlands home boasts a gourmet kitchen and true master bedroom retreat. Vast windows with water views enhance the bright, airy feel and French doors lead to an equally wonderful oasis with a swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.

1807 Arcadia Road

5,700 sq ft of modern family living in the heart of UBC offers up no less than 7 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, a chef’s kitchen and wine cellar. Valued at $8,588,000, the custom-built home welcomes you into its bright interior and tricked-out yard complete with pool, hot tub, outdoor fireplace and kitchen, and putting green.

6630 Marine Crescent 

The asking price on this cozy retreat that goes on for 5,897 sq ft on four floors was $7,980,000. Classic elegance meets West Coast relaxed minimalism on the inside, while the outdoors boasts a kitchen, pool and whirlpool. Feeling cramped with house guests? This SW Marine residence offers up a 1,168 sq ft coach house.

There’s no place like home, especially in one of these grand estates that enhance Vancouver’s natural beauty with their majestic architecture. Interested in buying or selling? Contact us any time for a consult.

Spring is just around the corner, and you know what that means –spring cleaning! It doesn’t have to be a drag. In fact, you don’t even have to worry about it at all because there are some great  businesses in Vancouver that specialize in these tasks! Whether you are looking for inside or outside work, these companies will get the job done. Here are some of our recommendations:

1. T & O Janitorial Solutions
One company we’ve worked with and would like to recommend is T & O Janitorial Solutions. T & O sends a team of experienced cleaners to thoroughly clean your home. They offer a variety of services, including carpet cleaning, floor stripping & waxing, ovens, fridges and freezers, power washing, windows, balconies, and, whatever else you can think of. They are more than just having a cleaning lady drop by.

2. AspenClean
If you take environmental-sustainability as seriously as the cleanliness of your home then AspenClean is for you. Unlike many other house cleaning services, they use 100% natural, eco-friendly cleaning products that will do the job without leaving chemical residues or toxins in the air. Rather, they leave you a home that is safe and clean for you, your family, and the environment!

3. Climbing Vine Gardens
If you’re looking to spruce up your property, Climbing Vine Gardens is a full service landscape design company, that takes care of installation, and maintenance too. Dan believes every project is unique on its own and will consult with you so that his team will give you the best results suited to your needs.

4. COIT
Need cleaning for all the nooks and crannies in your home? COIT’s cleaning services cover carpets, upholstery, tile & grout, air ducts, wood floors, drapery, natural stone, and they even offer emergency and restoration services. They’ve been providing quality service for 65 years, and are a trusted Vancouver company.

5. Holland Home Services
Holland Home Services can take care of your heavy duty cleaning for the outsides of your home from wear and tear and the elements. They specialize in window cleaning, pressure washing, gutter maintenance, moss & algae removal, concrete & aggregate sealing, and even roof repairs. We’ve worked with Holland Home Services before and they are now a go-to for us!

Tip of the Day:  This morning, we spoke to Amber Hamilton, owner of the eco-friendly cleaning company, Maid Naturally. She says that giving each room in your home an extra 5 minutes each week can eliminate the need for a big spring cleaning. Look for an ongoing professional company who offers this level of service. Currently, Maid Naturally is booked to capacity.

(photo: flickr.com/tusnelda)

Over the past 2 decades we have spoken with thousands of homeowners only to learn that so many have had a negative experience when dealing with a real estate agent. So many buyers & sellers make the mistake of hiring a REALTOR® based on the wrong selection criteria. Many only interview one agent.

Selling a home is probably one of the most important and biggest dollar value transactions the average person will ever enter into. You’d think it would only make sense to hire a seasoned professional to navigate your sale.

Before selecting your REALTOR® to help you in your next real estate transaction here are a few tips to ensure you make the right decision.

Firstly, it’s always wise to speak with 3 REALTORS® to ensure what you are hearing makes sense. Some questions to ask:

1. How many sales do they have in the immediate neighborhood where you are buying or selling. It always makes sense to select a REALTOR® who works in your neighborhood.

2. How many listings and or how many buyers are they presently working with. A REALTOR® with 20 or more active listing may to be busy to provide you with the service you expect.

3. How many associates does the REALTOR® have working with them? If your agent is part of a team who’s the one will you be dealing with. Who will be showing your home? Is it important for you to have your agent showing up to show the home & be present at open houses? If they cannot commit chances are you are going to have an assistant show your home. Are you ok with that?

4. Ask your agent if they are planning on taking any vacation time during your listing period. While everyone deserves a vacation I think it’s important to know whether their vacation will take place while you are selling your home.

Does your agent live in the neighborhood or in close proximity to where you are buying or selling. Hiring a REALTOR® who is not knowledgeable about property values in your area can cost you big time. Don’t list or buy with a friend who lives 25 miles away. Have them refer you to a local agent.

Asking a few simple questions can ensure you a better outcome when selling or buying your next property.

Happy Selling,

Andrew & Jill Hasman

Valentine’s Day is a time to create unforgettable romantic memories for you and your honey. Enjoying delicious food in a cozy restaurant can contribute largely to that! We’ve come up with a list of romantic restaurants in Vancouver to help you plan for that special day.

1. L’Abbattoir: 217 Carrall St. in the heart of Gastown, 604 568 1701
If you like a mix of modern and classic, we recommend L’Abbatoir. Set in a refurbished brick and beam building that combines classic French tile work with industrial fixtures, natural wood, and glass and steel finishes. The restaurant offers a bar and lounge setting, elevated dining room, and a plush, sun soaked atrium. L’Abbattoir is dedicated to highlighting the finer points of eating and drinking with a French influenced West Coast eclectic wine program and an innovative cocktail list.
2. Tableu Bar Bistrboth o: 1181 Melville St., 604 639 8692
Voted winner in Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver 2014 and Golden Plate Award, discover a beautifully renovated interior that combines old world classic bistro elements with modern touches and a French-inspired menu that blends classic culinary flavours of Paris with the use of fresh west coast ingredients. This Coal Harbour restaurant serves in-house and classic cocktails with a great selection of local and draft beers on tap as well as an eclectic mix of wines from France.
3. Cin Cin: 1154 Robson St., 604 688 7338
Cin Cin is famous within the Vancouver dining scene located on renowned Robson Street. Charming and cozy, it combines Spanish and French cuisines using only the freshest market fish, and prime cuts of meat are deliciously rendered over fruitwood charcoal.
4. Lupo: 869 Hamilton St., 604 569 2325
Enjoy modern Italian cuisine at its finest! The Lupo Restaurant and Vinoteca, formally known as 'Villa del Lupo', is a classy and romantic establishment, and a hidden gem in downtown Vancouver. It is a contemporary kitchen serving fresh reinventions of Italian classics in a cozy, neighbourhood environment.
5. Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar: 900 Seymour St., 604 632 9560
From the finest charcuterie, to artisanal cheeses and hard-to-find wine selections, indulge in Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar's cosmopolitan, yet relaxed interpretation of a true Italian 'enoteca'. The elegant modernism of its interior design combined with the building's historical elements, such as its delicate 1908 terrazzo floors, creates a unique, yet vibrant setting that must be experienced.
6. Hawksworth Restaurant: 801 West Georgia St., located at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia w/valet parking, 604 673 7000
Hawksworth is said to be Vancouver’s best restaurant with breathtakingly good food, ambiance, and service. It’s the perfect spot for celebrating special occasions, and the chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings could end up being one of the best meals of your lives!
7. YEW Seafood: 791 Georgia St., 604 692 4939
In short: modern, coastal, and social. YEW Seafood + Bar is one of the city’s finer seafood restaurants, delivering exceptionally delicious cuisine, great wines, innovative cocktails, and a fun, welcoming environment. Located at the treetop level inFour Seasons Hotel Vancouver, it provides a chic space and great views.
8. MarketBy Jean-Georges: 1115 Alberni St., 3rd Floor of the Shangri-La Hotel, 604 695 1115
If you value elegance and contemporary dining then Market is the place for you! The Menu features Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s “greatest hits” reinventing classic dishes where guests are able to try new flavour combinations and explore spices from exotic regions.
9. Hy’s Encore Vancouver: 637 Hornby St., 604 683 1749
Established in 1955, Hy’s holds a reputation of warmth and elegance. Enjoy perfectly grilled Canadian Prime steaks, cold martinis , and warm hospitality in a relaxed and refined atmosphere. Interiors speak of elegance with rich wood accents, chandeliers, and red velvet seating.
10. The Refinery: 1115 Granville St., 604 687 8001
The refinery offers charcuterie, cheeses, cured and fresh seafood as well as offering timeless classics of modern gastronomy. Cocktails are taken seriously at The Refinery, almost everything is made from scratch with an emphasis on using local ingredients.

(Photo: flickr.com/portobaytrade)

Another New Year, another chance at fulfilling your resolutions. Like many people, one of your resolutions for 2015 is probably to get in better shape. People often think of the gym when considering fitness, and by the time February rolls around their fitness regime becomes uninteresting, and sometimes non-existent.

Guess what? Getting fit doesn’t have to be confined to the gym! Here is a list of fun fitness ideas located in or near the West Side. Go get it!

1. YYOGA has several locations offering regular yoga classes, special workshops, and even international retreats! YYOGA is a community of yoga studio and lifestyle centres dedicated to supporting people in their commitment to a balanced and healthy life. They also offer amenities such as a sauna, complimentary organic shower products and herbal tea. Take a look at their event page to see what’s coming up.

2. Harbour Dance Centre is at the center of Vancouver’s dance scene! Their world class faculty offers a variety of dance forms for adult dancers of all levels. Harbour Dance is opened 7 days a week with a different schedule every day to accommodate the diverse lifestyles of Vancouverites. This studio is the perfect choice for everyone from professionals to adult beginners. Enjoy styles such as ballet, jazz, tap, salsa, hip hop, belly dance and many more. Check out their drop-in and progressive classes to see what appeals to you.

3. Do you have a little one with you? No problem! Fit 4 Two is a pre and postnatal fitness, nutrition and wellness program for mothers in their own communities. They offer a huge list of classes to suit your needs during your childbearing years. Take a look at the location nearest you to see their current classes.

4. Perhaps you’re over the age of 55? The Seniors’ Activity Centre in Vancouver’s Westside can keep you busy! The Centre offers a range of activities from fitness and educational classes to social and creative programs. No matter what age you are you can stay healthy and strong while making new connections. Take a look to see which activities they have for their winter schedule, including cross-country skiing,  snowshoeing, and their cycling club.

5. Alright, we can’t forget those who are already in shape! If you need a real challenge, try out CrossFitBC. Their CrossFit program helps you reach your goals through high intensity training with 300 different workouts throughout the course of a year to keep you on your toes. Regardless of your experience level, CrossFit’s expert coaches will get you where you want to be. Does that sound appealing? Here’s their schedule.

Another very satisfied client!! This past weekend we SOLD this lovely Point Grey property. Our marketing strategy was to attract as many potential buyers in the 1st week of the home being listed. This 50 x 122 ft lot sold with 11 offers! The buyers bid up the price to $ 2.95 million which sets a new high benchmark for properties of this kind in the upper Pt Grey Area! We are just thrilled for our clients.

P.S. There are no plans for development.

Detached Homes:

-Sales in November 2014 were down 16% from last year, but the average sale price is up 16% to $ 2.963 million. House inventory is down by 9% from 730 units to 664 units.
-Month’s supply is 5.6 this year vs 5.2 months a year ago. This indicates in average terms a ‘balanced market’.

Condos and Townhomes:

-Sales were down 20%  for townhomes and up 13% for condos during November 2014 vs a year ago. The average selling prices were 18% higher for townhomes to $ 1,002,000 and 6% higher for condos to $ 647,700. Inventory was unchanged for townhomes and down 8% for condos at the end of November compared to a year ago.
-Month’s supply for townhomes was up to 5 months from 4 months and for condos down to 4.3 months from 5.3 months a year ago. These figures indicate a fairly balanced market with slight upward price pressure.

It’s important to note that the above statistics are for the West Side as a whole. Markets really do vary by specific neighborhoods and by the type of property. If you have any questions about the market in your neighborhood then it’s wise to speak with a realtor who has presence in your area. Call us today at 604-657-7936 and we will be happy to provide you with some helpful market information specific to your neighborhood.