Posts

Preparing Homes in Canmore for an Alberta Winter!

Fall is almost over! And, if you’re anything like us, you’re eager for the 2023/24 ski season. But, before we can enjoy the winter activities that Canmore and Banff are renowned for, it’s a good idea to prep your home for the change in weather ahead. Winterizing your home is an essential step in preserving its value. Not to mention, a great way to safeguard yourself from unexpected repairs. Whether you are a winter veteran or a total novice, we hope to provide you with some insightful tips about how to get homes in Canmore ready for an Alberta winter. Follow along below to learn more!

How to Winterize Homes in Canmore

  1. Clean Your Gutters

Cleaning your gutters is a must-do task that every homeowner should complete before the seasons change. While it is good practice to empty your gutters a few times per year, it is especially important to do so before winter. During the winter months increased precipitation and freezing temperatures can pose several risks to your home. Namely, water damage. If your gutters are clogged with debris, this can prohibit drainage. Thus, increasing the probability of household leaks. If you are not comfortable with doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional to get the job done. Most service providers can have the task completed in two hours. 

  1. Check Your Roof

Besides your foundation, the roof of your home is one of the most important features. As the weather cools and snow begins to fall, the integrity of your roof will be tested. To make sure that your roof can handle Old Man Winter, it’s a good idea to get outside and inspect it. When checking your roof be sure to keep an eye out for missing, loose or broken shingles.  Furthermore, you’ll want to make note of any damaged, rusted, or missing metal flashing. If you have a flat roof check that: there are no tears/holes in the surface, it’s free from mould, and the seals are in good shape. 

  1. Blow Out Sprinkler Lines

Another item you won’t want to forget is blowing out your sprinklers. If your home has an underground sprinkler system, you’ll want to make sure that these lines are free of water before temperatures dip below zero. Failing to do so can cause the pipes to crack or break, which means your irrigation system will not work come spring. If you’re not sure how to do this, contact a local landscaping company for help! 

More Ways to Prepare

  1. Make Sure You Have The Right Equipment

Before winter arrives, make sure that you take inventory of the winter tools you have on hand and what you need to replace/invest in. For example, you’ll want to ensure that you have a snow shovel, snow brush, the appropriate tires for your vehicle and new batteries in your alarms and detectors. Having the right equipment will make the winter season that much more manageable! Visit your local hardware store to stock up.

  1. Don’t Leave Any Gaps

When you winterize your home, it is a good idea to look for gaps in the sealant around your doors and windows. If you find any, make sure to patch them up before the cooler weather hits. Adding weather stripping to doors and caulking any gaps around your window will make your home all the more insulated. By completing these tasks, you can help to reduce your heating costs and make sure that your home is free of drafts. 

  1. Test Your Heating System

Last but not least, while preparing your home for winter, it is a good idea to test out your heating system. After all, no one wants to experience an Alberta winter without heat! Call an HVAC specialist to come and check out your furnace to ensure that it is fully operational. Typically, as part of this service, HVAC professionals will clean your furnace and change the filter for you. 

Contact us Today About Homes in Canmore!

We are happy to help you determine if Canmore is the right place for you to settle down. 

Canmore is an incredible area to own a property. Reach out today to learn more about all of the amazing opportunities that come with living in real estate in Canmore. For more information, feel free to message us with any questions or concerns you have about living in this amazing town.We look forward to working with you in the near future! 

/0 Comments/by

Moving to a Small Town: Pros & Cons of Buying Canmore Homes for Sale

Moving to a small town certainly has a charm to it. With more and more remote work options, it has become much easier to live outside of large city centres. The flexibility to live where you want has left many Canadians wanting to escape big city life. However, moving to a small town comes with its pros and cons. If you’re considering buying Canmore homes for sale, but not sure if it’s the right move for you, we encourage you to read this article! In the post, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to list some of the benefits and drawbacks of living in a small town like Canmore. Be sure to consider the following factors before making the decision to uproot for a smaller community.   

Cons of Small Town Living: Canmore Edition

  1. The Price of Living in Canmore Isn’t Much Cheaper Than in the City

One of the reasons that people decide to live in a small town is because it tends to be cheaper than living in the city. However, in Canmore, this is not the case. Buyers will quickly notice that the cost of living in Canmore is very high. This is because of the demand for housing, incredible local amenities, and strict housing regulations. If you’re interested in moving to a small town for cheaper real estate opportunities, Canmore is not the right place to settle down.

  1. Fewer Transportation Options

Another downside to living in a small town like Canmore is the fact that public transit options are limited. Nearly all residents who live in Canmore rely on their own vehicles to get around. If you don’t already own a car, you’ll want to think about investing in one. Preferably something that can handle the long Alberta winters. For those who are currently getting by without a car in the city, this is a cost you’ll want to factor in before your move. Be sure to account for maintenance, gas and insurance prices in addition to the total cost of the vehicle. 

  1. Long Winters

Albertans will be the first to tell you about the long winters across the province. From icy temperatures to snow that just doesn’t go, winter can be dreadful. However, if you enjoy skiing and other snowsports, the long winter might be just what you’re looking for. Make sure you think about your tolerance for winter before making the move to a town like Canmore!

Pros of Small Town Living in Canmore Homes for Sale

  1. Location & Access to Nature

Living in Canmore gives you access to some of the best outdoor experiences in Canada! From world-class ski resorts to awesome restaurants, Canmore has it all. In the summer, enjoy hiking, biking, mountaineering, or rock climbing. You can also head to the Bow River for an epic canoeing experience. Once winter arrives, ski and snowboard until your heart’s content! There are also a number of cross-country ski opportunities, skating, and other winter activities. The location and access to nature are Canmore’s biggest draws!

  1. Low Crime Rate

Living in Canmore, you can feel safe knowing that the crime rate is very low. Crime rates in Canmore have consistently been ranked below the national average. In fact, they are among some of the lowest in the whole country. The only thing you need to be on the lookout for is wildlife. Thankfully, most wildlife in the area is not naturally aggressive and will normally avoid human contact. 

  1. You Aren’t Far From the City

Another pro to living in the Canmore, is that you are only a hop, skip and a jump from one of Alberta’s biggest cities—Calgary! If you’re worried about missing out on big city attractions like concerts, sports games, and nightlife, don’t fret. Calgary is only an hour’s drive from Canmore. Thus, making it a short trip back into the city. This way you can still reap the benefits of big-city living without actually having to live in the hustle and bustle. 

Contact us About Canmore Homes for Sale

If you are planning on buying Canmore homes for sale, contact me today! We are happy to help you determine if Canmore is the right place for you to settle down. 

Canmore is an incredible area to own a property. Reach out today to learn more about all of the amazing opportunities that come with living in real estate in Canmore. For more information, feel free to message us with any questions or concerns you have about living in this amazing town. For more real estate-related content and visit our Canmore Real Estate broker website Alpine Realty! We look forward to working with you in the near future! 

/0 Comments/by

Pros & Cons of Making an All-Cash Offer on a Property in Canmore

Making an all-cash offer on a property in Canmore can be a tempting decision. Especially, if you have the funds to do so. By making an all-cash offer, buyers can forgo the lending process and stand out against the competition. In a market like today’s, this can be incredibly advantageous. However, it is important to understand that making an all-cash offer is not all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, without proper consideration, an all-cash purchase can be a detriment to your financial well-being. To help you better understand the pros and cons of buying a property in cash, we’ve gone ahead and outlined some of the key details you need to know. Follow along below to learn more. 

What’s an All-Cash Offer?

An all-cash offer is pretty well what you’d expect—an offer on a home where the buyer plans to pay for the home without external funding. Thus, removing the need to secure a mortgage. Since buyers who pay in cash do not need to go through the mortgage process, the sale of the home can be processed much quicker. It is important to note that not all buyers who pay in cash intend to live on the property they are purchasing. In many cases, buyers will purchase in all cash with the intent of using the property for income. 

What are the Pros of Buying a Property in Canmore in Cash?

If you have the financial stability to make an all-cash offer, there are several pros. However, regardless of how financially able you are to buy the property without a mortgage, it is still a smart idea to weigh the advantages and disadvantages involved. So, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of an all-cash offer:

  1. Long Term Savings

It should go without saying that buying a home in cash will lead to immense long-term savings. This is because you won’t need to pay interest on your purchase. Factor in current Canadian mortgage rates, and it’s easy to see how a cash purchase can save you thousands!

  1. Stand Out From Other Buyers

Besides saving money on interest, making an all-cash offer is a great way to stand out from other buyers. In a competitive market, this can make all of the difference in you getting the home of your dreams! Not to mention, sellers will be more attracted to your offer since there is less that can go wrong. Thus, giving you the upper hand in negotiating. 

  1. Cheaper Closing Costs

Another perk of paying in cash is that you’ll lower your closing costs. Not having a loan means that you won’t have to pay any of the fees that lenders require at closing. For instance, reviewing your application, checking your credit score, processing your application, etc. 

  1. Faster Transaction

Finally, buying a home without a mortgage will speed up the transaction. Instead of waiting for lenders to process your application and make final considerations, you can skip to the important stuff. 

What are the Cons of Making an All-Cash Offer?

While buying a home in all cash may seem like a no-brainer, some serious cons can arise if you aren’t careful. To get a better idea of this, let’s take a look at some of the disadvantages of buying without borrowing:

  1. Not Enough Liquid Assets

Even if you’re financially able to purchase a home in all cash, you must consider how it will impact your financial situation. For some, buying a house in all-cash could mean that all of their money gets tied up in their house. This can be incredibly dangerous/risky. Having few liquid assets can make it difficult to afford the additional expenses that go along with owning a house. For instance, repairs, maintenance, property taxes, and renovations. If you are planning on buying in all-cash it’s a good idea to speak with a financial advisor to make sure that you aren’t putting yourself in a position you’ll regret. You should also have a substantial emergency fund to ensure all of your bases are covered. 

  1. It’s Easy to Skip Steps

When buying a home in cash, it becomes a lot easier to forgo key steps in the buying process. This is especially true since no lender is forcing you to complete tasks like appraisals and home inspections. Even if you are buying without borrowing, you must complete all the necessary steps to ensure you are making a sound investment. 

  1. No Mortgage Tax Deductions

Another disadvantage of buying a property in cash is that you skip out on the mortgage tax deductions. When tax season rears its head, homeowners with a mortgage can write off the taxes on their interest payments. For those who pay in cash, this deduction is not applicable. 

Contact us Today!

If you are planning on buying a property in Canmore in cash, contact us today! We are happy to help you determine the best course of action when it comes to buying a new home. 

Canmore is an incredible area to own a property. Reach out today to learn more about all of the amazing opportunities that come with living in real estate in Canmore. For more information, feel free to message us with any questions or concerns you have about living in this amazing town. For more real estate-related content visit our canmore real estate broker website! We look forward to working with you shortly! 

/0 Comments/by

Buying Canmore Houses For Sale in a Competitive Market

Over the last few years, the Canadian housing market has become increasingly competitive. With interest rate hikes and the growing needs of homeowners, it has become difficult for Canadians to find a home. Demand for housing has driven up prices while supply, in many areas, continues to rest at an all-time low. These conditions are especially true for those who live in amenity-rich areas like Canmore and Banff. If you’re hoping to buy a home in today’s competitive market, it is important that you have all of the information. In this article, we are going to be going over some tips and advice for buying Canmore houses for sale in a competitive market. Follow along below to learn more!

How to Buy Houses for Sale in Canmore in a Competitive Market?

  1. Get to Know the Market Conditions

Before you start hunting for homes, it’s crucial that you get familiar with the market you are buying in. This is especially important for those who are buying from out of town. In Canada, the housing market is influenced by a number of factors. For instance, the economy, the population, and interest rates. Keeping these factors in mind will allow you to stay ahead of the game. It can also provide you with some insight into what affects supply and demand. Being knowledgeable about market conditions is a must when buying a home in a competitive market. 

  1. Nail Down Your Budget

Once you’ve got a strong grasp of the market conditions, it’s time to nail down your budget. Having a solid understanding of what you can afford is critical when searching for a home. Many people assume that determining your budget is limited to the price tag of the home. However, coming up with a sufficient buying budget means planning out the costs of homeownership as well. For instance, you’ll need to account for items like property taxes, insurance and maintenance. Crafting a realistic budget will give you a clear understanding of what homes you can afford and what homes are out of reach. A concrete budget is a foolproof way to narrow down your home search. 

  1. Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval

Another item you’ll want to tick off before starting your home search is getting a mortgage pre-approval. Mortgage pre-approvals are designed to give you a clear depiction of what you can afford. In addition to this, they also let sellers know that you’re serious about buying a home. Not only this, but pre-approvals can also help speed up the home-buying process since your lender will have already evaluated your financial situation. 

canmore houses for sale

More Tips & Advice!

  1. Hire a Real Estate Agent

Working with a real estate agent is a great way to ensure your success when buying in a competitive housing market. Great agents are knowledgeable about the market in your desired area and can provide you with helpful information. Furthermore, when it comes time to put in an offer, your agent will ensure that your price is right. Hiring a skilled real estate agent will make a difference in your home-buying experience. 

  1. Get Ready to Make Decisions on the Fly

In a competitive market, property tends to move fast. This is why it is essential that buyers are prepared to make decisions on the fly. One way to do so is by staying informed about new listings and not being afraid to put in an offer. It is during this step that having your finances in order can make all of the difference. Timing is a big part of buying in a competitive market, so talk with your agent about when the right time to put in an offer on a house is.

  1. Have an Open Mind

To successfully buy a home when the market is hot, it’s best to keep an open mind. Being flexible will provide you with more possibilities to find the right property for you and your family. This means being open to looking at homes in different neighbourhoods, price ranges, and property types. By keeping an open mind, you can up your chances of finding the perfect house that meets both your needs and your wants. 

/0 Comments/by

How to Get Careers in Real Estate in Alberta?

Obtaining careers in real estate is a simple process for those who take the time to complete each step. Becoming a real estate agent is a highly rewarding and in-demand career. One of the biggest questions that we receive about becoming an agent, is what the process is like to get your real estate license. It can be hard to find the correct information about starting your journey as a REALTOR®. However, that’s why we wanted to write this article about how you can obtain your real estate license in Alberta. In this post, we cover the most up-to-date information about the initial process of becoming a real estate agent. Follow along below to learn more about this topic!

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements for Careers in Real Estate

The first step to becoming an agent is to meet the minimum requirements for eligibility. It’s important to get approved by the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) before you enroll. In fact, at RECA, they’ll check your eligibility requirements to ensure that you are able to enroll. In order for a person to qualify by RECA’s standards, you must:

  1. Be 18 years of age or older
  2. Be able to study or work in Canada lawfully
  3. Be able to provide specific government-issued identification
  4. Have a minimum of a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
  5. Must be proficient in English

Next, you’ll need to set up a myRECA account. This account allows you to access the myRECA educational platform that allows you to take real estate exams in Alberta. Accounts are free and it only takes a few minutes to create. 

Once you’ve created your account, navigate to the “Education Eligibility Application”. This is how you’ll submit your application to RECA.

Requirements for education and English ability are different for those who received a Canadian education Vs. an international education. If you meet the requirements for education, then you’ll be required to take an English language proficiency test. Again, the language proficiency test differs depending on whether you received a Canadian or international education. 

After you’ve been approved for the education and English language requirements determined by RECA, you’ll need to partake in a brief information session. These sessions are usually done in video format and are provided by RECA. Typically, the video is around 10 minutes in length and covers all of your options as a future real estate agent. This video should serve as a guide for the type of real estate licensing you’d like to obtain.

Step 2: Start your Pre-Licensing Education

Once approved by RECA, you need to complete the pre-licensing education. Your pre-licensing education is critical in obtaining your real estate license. In order to get your license and apply for pre-licensing, you must take a minimum of two courses with RECA. 

As part of your two-course minimum, you must complete the Fundamentals of Real Estate class. This is a mandatory, online course that all applicants must take. Within this course, you will learn foundational skills and knowledge to ensure that you can practice real estate in Alberta. The curriculum is laid out into 10 different units with activities and quizzes to track your progress. This class is conducted online and costs $1250. You can register for this course via the RECA website. Furthermore, the course fee includes access to online course materials like the e-textbook and course manuals. 

Exams can be taken at any authorized exam centres. You can book your exam and check where the nearest exam centre is to you via your myRECA account. 

Besides the mandatory course mentioned above, you will also need to take a specialty course of your choice. This course will determine what area of real estate you’d like to focus on. Some of the options include:

  1. Residential real estate
  2. Commercial real estate
  3. Rural real estate
  4. Property management 

You must take one of these courses to get your real estate license. However, you are more than welcome to take additional specialty courses. Most individuals begin with a specialty in residential real estate and then take further courses later on when they want to expand their area of expertise. Moreover, each course costs $800.

These courses are not to be completed at your own pace! You must finish your minimum two courses within 1 year of being enrolled in them!

Contact us Today About Careers in Real Estate!

If you are looking for careers in real estate, contact us today! RE/MAX Alpine Realty is happy to help you get started in a career in real estate. For more information about the process of becoming an agent, check back on our blog next month for part two of obtaining your real estate license. Additional information about becoming an agent can be found here. Be sure to stay tuned to our social media for more exciting content! And don’t forget to meet the team!

/0 Comments/by

Banff Real Estate Blog Recap

, ,

Over the course of 2022, we wrote several blog articles about all things real estate. With 2022 coming to a close, we thought it would be best to close out this year’s content with a blog recap. This way you can read over any articles you missed from this year. From real estate career information to tips about buying Banff real estate, we’ve covered a number of topics. In this article, we are going to be giving you a brief recap of our blog content from 2022. Follow along below to see what we wrote on our blog over the past year!

Banff Real Estate Blog Recap – Spring and Summer

Over spring and summer, our team brought a number of articles to our readers. From May to June, we wrote about topics like buying homes in Canmore and began a mini-series of tips for real estate agents. Below is a brief recap of each article from these seasons. 

May – Information About Real Estate in Canmore.

In this article, we went over all of the basics of what you need to know before moving to real estate in Canmore. Here, you can find information about amenities, demographics, location, real estate, and local tax. If you are looking to move to Canmore we recommend reading through this article to gain some insight into what life in Canmore looks like!

June – Tips for Buying a House for Sale in Canmore

Similar to our May article, our June blog post goes over several tips on buying a home in Canmore. Purchasing a home in this town is not a simple process. Especially, if you are an inexperienced buyer. In this article, we provide you with a short guide to buying a house in the Canmore area. 

July – How to be a Successful Canmore Real Estate Agent?

At RE/MAX Alpine Realty, we are interested in helping future real estate agents just as much as our buyers and sellers. Because of this, we decided to write a small series with content for real estate agents. Our first article in this series goes over the basics of how to be successful as an agent. 

August – Networking as a Real Estate Agent in Canmore.

In August, we continued our mini-series of articles for agents and wrote all about networking. Networking is an important part of being a successful agent. This article provides several tips on how to network and gives some insight into the importance of networking. 

Fall and Winter Recap!

Sept – Real Estate Careers: Setting Yourself Apart From Other Agents.

Our September blog article was centred around setting yourself apart from other agents. More and more people are entering the real estate industry each day, because of the opportunities and challenges that it presents. The volume of people who are making this their career means that you need to stand out from the crowd. Setting yourself apart from other real estate agents is essential in gaining steady business. In this article, we’ve listed a few of our top tips on how to stand out from the crowd as an agent.

Oct –  How do I Get More Leads in my Career in Real Estate?

October capped off our mini-series on real estate agent tips. In lieu of this, we wrote about one of the most challenging and important parts of being an agent: generating leads. When you start your career in real estate it can be difficult to generate leads. Especially, when the market isn’t working in your favour. However, it is important to develop tactics and strategies to ensure that you can generate leads no matter what the world throws at you. This article includes a list of ways that you can gain more leads in your real estate career. 

Nov – How to Make Real Estate in Banff More Sustainable?

Finally, we finished off the year with an article that will kickstart our environmental series. Sustainability is an important part of maintaining the pristine environment in Banff. From large-scale renovations to simple daily practices, there are plenty of ways that you can do your part in keeping the environment clean. In this article, we put together a list of strategies that you can employ to reduce your home’s carbon footprint. 

Contact us About Banff Real Estate Today!

For more information about buying or selling a home in Banff, contact us today! We’d be happy to help you find the perfect Banff real estate for the new year. Be sure to check out our social media for the latest news and updates. And, stay tuned to our blog for more real-estate-related information. We look forward to working with you in the new year! Happy Holidays everyone. 

/0 Comments/by

Real Estate Careers: Setting Yourself Apart From Other Agents.

,

Real estate careers are becoming increasingly popular. There are 258,054 people working in real estate in Canada. More and more people are entering the real estate industry each day, because of the opportunities and challenges that it presents. The volume of people who are making this their career means that you need to stand out from the crowd. Setting yourself apart from other real estate agents is essential in gaining steady business. In this article, we’ve listed a few of our top tips on how to stand out from the crowd as an agent.

Follow along below to learn more!

1. Focus on the Future.

Very few real estate agents look to the future when they build their marketing plans. Instead, most agents target their ad campaign toward current buyers. This is fine, however, by focusing on buyers that will be ready to purchase a home in 1-3 years, you can begin to establish leads months in advance. Furthermore, by getting in contact with future buyers, you can start to educate them about your brand, who you are, and the steps to take in order to prepare to buy a home. This way, when it comes time to buy a home, you’ll be their first choice! It is so important that you cultivate future buyers to keep business steady.

2. Real Estate Careers Require Unique Websites.

If you’re looking to stand out from everyone else with real estate careers, your corporate website isn’t going to cut it. In fact, this is a sure way to blend in with all of the other agents at your brokerage. In order to make an impact, you should consider investing in a website that is independent of your brokerage. This way you can focus on developing your brand, instead of the brokerages. Clients love a website that is easy to navigate and pleasing to the eye. Both of which aren’t always found on a free corporate website. Owning your own website will give you the opportunity to add special features that could help enhance the customer experience. For example, unique software plugins, videos, animations, a blog, and so much more!

3. Communicate Effectively.

Communication is everything as a real estate agent. When the market is hot you need to be in immediate contact with your clients. And, they need to be able to reach you when it is most convenient for them. Everyone has a different preferred method of communication. Whether that be texting, calling, E-mailing, etc. It is important to determine your clients’ ideal way to communicate with you. Establishing this from the get-go will allow you to have smooth contact with your clients. After all, it is critical that you are able to speak with them in real time. 

Lastly, before you begin working with your clients, it is important to establish available hours for communication. Find out when it is okay to call, text, or E-mail your clients. This way, you know when they will be most responsive to your messages. 

4. Offer To Help With Staging

Staging is one of the most difficult parts of selling a home for some people. But, staging can make a huge difference in the sale of the home. Even just staging one or two rooms can make all of the difference. Getting more than the asking price for your client’s home will certainly leave a good impression. So, offer to help them stage their property. Even if it is just small tips and tricks that will help renew the space. For instance, decluttering the walls and countertops, changing the colour of the paint, rearranging the furniture, or adding some greenery.

Meet with your clients about staging their homes. Or, refer them to a great staging company. Either way, empowering them to take these steps can result in better ratings for your services. 

5. Those With Real Estate Careers Need Good Referrals. 

Those with real estate careers need to have a list of good referrals. It is crucial that you are connected to several other businesses within the community. Especially when dealing with buyers. Finding an inspector, mortgage broker, financial advisor, contractor, etc, can be a huge burden for a buyer. Take some responsibility off of their shoulders and provide a brochure of homebuying contacts that might be useful to your clients. Be sure to speak with the businesses beforehand, because they may be willing to give your clients a discount for your referral. 

Contact Us About Real Estate Careers Now!

Standing out from the crowd can be difficult for up-and-coming real estate agents. It is important that you make the effort to be different from your competitors. Whether that be through exceptional customer service, great market knowledge, or a helpful network. For more information on becoming a real estate agent in Canmore, contact us today. We’d be happy to help provide you with information about how to get started in the industry. Be sure to check out our social media for the latest updates and more. We look forward to working with you in the near future!

/0 Comments/by

Networking as a Real Estate Agent in Canmore.

Networking is an important part of your career as a real estate agent in Canmore. Constantly making an effort to expand your network will go a long way as a real estate agent. Connecting with other people who are from different walks of life will help you to gain an understanding of current issues, learn from others’ experiences, and promote your business. Fostering the connections that you make will go a long way in helping you to generate leads. For more information on how to build your network as a real estate agent in Canmore, continue reading the article below!

1. Be Active On Your Social Platforms. 

In our largely digital world, it is essential to be active on at least one social media platform. Developing an online presence will allow you to connect with thousands of people from the comfort of your home or office. When people first discover you as a real estate agent in Canmore, the first thing they are likely to do is to Google you. This is why it is important to have a robust online presence that accurately reflects who you are as an agent. You can do this by posting often on Instagram, having a great website, posting on a blog, or joining Tik Tok. 

If you’ve already established a social media presence, try following new people from outside of which the algorithms recommended. This way, you can broaden the spectrum of people in your social network. By doing so, you will then be able to find other people who are different from those you already follow. 

The more platforms you are active on, the better! Increased visibility is always a positive when you’re trying to meet new people. Be sure to include up-to-date information on all of your platforms so that people can easily reach you. 

2. Go Out of Your Way to Help Others.

Reaching out to 5 to 10 people each month with the intention of helping them can make a big difference in the quality of the relationships you build. Helping others not only gives you a good reputation but also helps foster the connections you already have. Building meaningful relationships is an important part of a strong network. Lending a helping hand will enhance your interactions with those in your network. So, next time you are looking for ways to network, try reaching out to those in your circle and offer them a hand.

3. A Real Estate Agent in Canmore Must Make Time For Networking!

Despite how busy you may be, it is important to carve out time for networking. Having a set block in your calendar will help ensure that you go out and network with others. Try and change up the way you network every few weeks/months to ensure that you are meeting new people from other backgrounds. Going to the same event over and over again will help you build connections, however, you are unlikely to meet a diverse group of people. Instead, change up your routine or try networking in a new way to build connections with other communities of people. 

4. Follow Up With the People You Meet!

Once you’ve made the effort to connect with new people, it is important that you follow up with them. Getting a bunch of new contacts at a networking event is great. However, without following up with them, your contacts will become meaningless. In order to build a strong network, you need to be in touch with prospective contacts. The simple act of reaching out will let the other person know that you are proactive. This will go a long way if you message them with something personalized. Building trustworthy relationships and personal connections will help you greatly in the real estate industry. 

Contact Us About Being a Real Estate Agent in Canmore.

Building a reliable network of people takes a lot of time and effort. However, these relationships can come in handy more than you might think. Overall, networking comes down to your willingness to put yourself out there and meet new people. For more information on becoming a real estate agent in Canmore, contact us today. We’d be happy to help provide you with information about how to get started in the industry. Be sure to check out our social media for the latest updates and more. We look forward to working with you in the near future!

/0 Comments/by

Tips on Becoming a Successful Canmore Real Estate Agent?

There are many things that are necessary for your success as a Canmore real estate agent. It is easy to be triumphant in a market that is booming. However, it is much more difficult to be as successful when market conditions are less than ideal. In order to be a great real estate agent, you need to be able to do well even when the odds are stacked against you. With rising interest rates and more inventory, you will need to be consistent and practice good habits to thrive.

For more information on how to have a successful career as a real estate agent, continue reading the tips below. 

1. Be Available and Practice Great Communication.

Keep those communication lines open! One of the top reasons that real estate agents will fail, is due to poor communication. Having great communication skills is necessary for almost every profession. However, it is especially important when it comes to real estate. This is because clients need to be able to reach you at all times throughout the day. Remembering that this is most likely the biggest thing happening in their world at that moment, will help to understand why. Oftentimes, people are unable to reach you during the average 9-5 work day, because they are also working. This means you need to make yourself available for communication before and after hours.

It is also important that you promptly return messages when customers or leads reach out to you. By actively following up with people you are setting the precedent that your clients matter to you. Furthermore, it is crucial that you respond to emails, texts, voicemails, direct messages, and calls within a timely manner. Letting messages go stale in your inbox is a sure way to gain frustrated clients and bad reviews. Setting some rules for how you engage with customers will help to alleviate any confusion, so make it clear early on in your partnership. If you don’t check your voicemail regularly and prefer to text then you should establish that early on to avoid the potential for miscommunication.

2. A Great Canmore Real Estate Agent Will Build a Network. 

Having a large network of contacts is necessary for a real estate agent. It is important that you build a well-rounded contact list that you can draw from in a pinch. Getting in with contractors, city officials, developers, landscapers, and lawyers is extremely valuable. In fact, sometimes a quick phone call to the right person will help you close a deal. The more people you know as a real estate agent, the better. By cultivating your network, you will learn more than you ever could by taking an online course. Additionally, networking will help you secure and close more deals in the future. As a Canmore real estate agent it is vital that you make networking a priority.  

It’s also valuable to make friends within your office and other offices both locally and afar. You never know where you can leverage these contacts. They might have someone moving to Canmore who needs a home that you have a listing for or perhaps your seller is packing up and moving across the country. Whatever the case, building your network is a valuable commodity when you work in real estate.

3. It’s All About How You Treat Your Clients. 

Real estate is a game that revolves around how you treat your clients. By listening to clients’ needs and accommodating them, you are creating a positive reputation. Happy clients will be more likely to give you a good review and recommend you to their friends and family. Once you close the deal with a client, it is important that you maintain a cordial relationship with them. Oftentimes in real estate, your clients become clients for life if you treat them right! Something as simple as sending a happy birthday email, or checking in to see how they’ve settled into the new home can go a long way. This all goes back to having great communication. Following up even after the deal closes is so important. And, it shows that you have the client’s best interest at heart.

4. Canmore Real Estate Agents Will Market Themselves!

As a Canmore real estate agent it is key that you market yourself to the public. Many real estate agents neglect this step, in the beginning, assuming that people will simply find them. However, the sooner you realize the importance of self-marketing, the quicker you will succeed. In order to make your presence known, there are a few things you can do. For instance, creating an online profile with a website or blog and using social media. New agents should also try and join a real estate brokerage for added support when it comes to marketing. You can also use traditional methods like signs, banners, and bus ads to gain local support. Furthermore, attending networking events can also be a way to get your name into the community. There are a ton of ways to market yourself in today’s day and age – it’s all about finding the one that works best for you and stay consistent with it! 

Contact Us About Becoming A Canmore Real Estate Agent Today!

If you are interested in having a career as a Canmore real estate agent, contact us today! We’d be happy to help you get started in the real estate industry. For more information on becoming a real estate agent, feel free to reach out. You can also visit our blog for more tips and advice. Be sure to check out our social media for the latest updates and more. We look forward to hearing from you in the near future!

/0 Comments/by

Tips for Buying a House for Sale in Canmore.

Buying a house for sale in Canmore can be difficult for the inexperienced buyer. Canmore and Banff boast some of the most competitive and hard to get into markets in Alberta. The average price for a house sits well above the provincial average in Alberta. Thus, making it tough for just anyone to purchase a property. If you are looking for a house for sale in Canmore there are a few things you need to keep in mind. This way, you won’t end up purchasing a home that you later realize is not the right fit for you. Ultimately, we want to ensure that you choose a property that best suits your goals and needs. Follow along below to discover our advice on buying a house for sale in Canmore, Alberta. 

What is Going to Be the Central Use of Your House for Sale in Canmore?

houses for sale in canmore

The first step to finding a great property in Canmore is to determine how you will use the home. Canmore is full of breathtaking properties that all offer unique benefits to their owner. Making the decision to purchase a home in such a diverse city is hard when your intentions for the property are unclear. Before you start the hunt for a house for sale in Canmore, picture how you plan to spend your time there. Will it be your primary residence? Or, will it be a vacation property that you visit on occasion? Do you plan on renting out your home to others? If yes, will they be short-term or long-term rental agreements?

There are a number of ways that you can utilize your property. Whichever option you choose will help to narrow down your search. This way, your agent can better help you find the perfect home for your needs. While you determine how you plan on using your home, you may also want to consider your budget, what location you’d like, the size of the home, amenities, etc. All of these things will make it easier for you to find a home you love. 

Choosing the Right Property Type.

Canmore has several different options for housing. From condos and townhomes to luxury multi-story homes, there’s something for everyone. In addition to this, Canmore has many different areas, each with its own set of unique amenities. Choosing the right style of home and the right neighbourhood is essential in buying the perfect home. We recommend visiting/staying in every neighbourhood in Canmore before you decide on “the one”. For instance, if your family wants to be near the river, check out areas like Lions Park or South Canmore. Or, if you’d prefer to be on the lake, visit Rundleview or Peaks of Grassi. Furthermore, there is also the option to be secluded in the mountains with luxury homes on Stone Creek Place or Benchlands Terrace.

Each neighbourhood has its own vibe and sense of community. It is important that you choose the neighbourhood that best suits your interests and needs. Taking the time to explore each area is a great way to find out what you do and don’t like. 

Make Sure the Home is Zoned in Accordance With Your Plans.

Canmore and Banff both have strict zoning laws on all real estate properties. This is to ensure that parklands are protected and a high standard of quality is maintained. There are four zoning categories for residential properties. These include tourist homes, visitor accommodations, and residential and employee housing. If you plan to live on the property and do short-term rentals, you must have a home zoned within ‘tourist’ or ‘visitor accommodation’. These are the only zones where short-term (vacation) rentals are legal. 

Act Fast When Buying a House for Sale in Canmore You Love!

When buying a house for sale in Canmore, it is important that you act fast on properties you love. This means being prepared to write an offer as soon as possible. The demand for homes in Canmore is strong. This is largely due to the limited number of single-family homes within the area. Moreover, houses that are priced in a good range generally don’t spend too long on the market. For out-of-province buyers, this can mean making an offer before being able to see the property in person. 

If you are interested in purchasing a house for sale in Canmore contact us today! Canmore is an incredible area to own a property. Reach out today to learn more about all of the amazing opportunities that come with living in real estate in Canmore. For more information, feel free to message us with any questions or concerns you have about living in this amazing city. Be sure to check back next month for more real estate-related content and visit our social media page! We look forward to working with you in the near future!

/0 Comments/by