Top 10 Security Tips for Your New Home

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Moving into a new home is an exciting experience – new neighbourhood, new neighbours, fresh start, etc. As you start to check off items on your to-do list for your big move, don’t forget to add: change locks. It’s important to assume that numerous people could have access to your home with a key from the previous owners. Safety should always be at the top of your list.

Below are 10 security tips for when you move into your new home:

1. Examine eoors and windows

Check the frames to ensure stability, durability, and reliability. If they are in need of repair, make sure you get them fixed.

2. Changing the exterior locks

Consider an electronic deadbolt, built-in alarm systems and anti-pick resistance. .

3. Keep an eye out on your tour

Look for broken or aging door frames and flimsy window locks.

4. Check for an existing alarm system

If so, be sure to change the access codes and contact the alarm service company to let them know of a new ownership.

5. Walk around your new home to check the safety of entering and exiting from different doorways

Do this at different times throughout the day, making sure the necessary pathways are well lit at night.

6. Sensor Lights 

Having sensor lights deters criminals while you’re sleeping

7. Trim back bushes and trees

This prevents thieves from hidings. It’s important to store ladders in a locked garage or shed. 

8. Hiring tradespeople 

Ensure your hires are accredited – ask for credentials and references.

9. Emergency contact information

Make a list of emergency phone numbers and locations and keep it close to all phone devices throughout the home.

10. Join the neighbourhood watch 

Be involved and stay “in-the-know” of what’s happening in your new neighbourhood

For more information on security tips and advice for your home, visit schlage.com.

If you have any questions regarding the above, please give us a call at 604-588-4466 or email us at info@brokersmart.ca

Thinking About Buying an Income Property?

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Owning an income property can be quite the profitable investment. But before you commit, take the time to gain a clear understanding of the steps for financing and the responsibilities you would obtain. Research, research, research. It’s important to understand why exactly investing  in an income property would be beneficial to you.

We are here to help you with that research.

Why buy an income property? 

  • Real Estate is still a long-term investment 
  • Property values have been historically more stable than stock market
  • A source of monthly income, if you do not have a monthly shortfall
  • There are some tax deductible expenses

What are types of income property are approved?

  • Single-family dwellings
  • Town homes
  • Condos
  • Duplexes
  • Triplexes
  • Fourplexes

Most lenders allow applicant to hold a maximum of 4 rental properties. Holding more than 4 rental properties is considered commercial business.

Basics of down payment for investment properties:

  • Most lenders require 25% -35% for down payment
  • If between 20-25%, the mortgage will need to be insured for default with CMHC/Genworth/Canada Guaranty and a premium will be added to the mortgage
  • Down payment cannot be borrowed or gifted
  • Must provide proof of down payment (30 to 90 day account history)

As a one-stop shop at BrokerSmart, we are here to assist you with your investing needs. If you want to obtain more information and/or have any questions, please give us a call at 604-588-4466 or email us at info@brokersmart.ca

 

FVREB July Statistics

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It’s a strong summer for the Fraser Valley housing market as high demand continues throughout July. Below are the key stats and benchmark prices from the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) July Statistics report.

Key Stats:

  • Total Sales: 1,615 – an increase of 11% compared to July 2013
  • New Listings: 2,724 – a decrease of 2% compared to July 2013
  • Benchmark Price for Single Family Detached Home: $538,000 – an increase of 3% compared to July 2013
  • Benchmark Price for Townhouses: $298,500 – an increase of 0.2% compared to July 2013
  • Benchmark Price for Apartments: $194,700 – an decrease of 3.6% compared to July 2013

The President of the FVREB, Ray Werger, states, “July’s steady activity is a continuation of what we’ve been seeing all year. Our market has fully recovered from last year’s slump and has returned to what we typically see in the Fraser Valley, which is steady, consistent market.”

Prices have continued to remain relatively steady this past year as demand increases. The Fraser Valley housing market enters August with positive sights.

To view of the full FVREB July Statistics report, click here.

If you have any questions regarding the report, please give us a call us 604-588-4466 or email us at info@brokersmart.ca

 

REBGV July Statistics

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The supply and demand in the Greater Vancouver housing market has been quite even this past month, with buyers demanding slightly ahead of sellers. The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) have released their July Statistics report. Details below:

Key Stats:

  • Total Property Sales: 3,061 – an increased of 3.9% compared to  July 2013
  • Sales-to-Active Ratio: 19.6% – ratio has been between 18% and 20% over the past four months
  • Total New Listings: 4,925 – an increase of 1.5% compared to July 2013
  • Total Properties Listed for Sale: 15,617 – a decline of 6% compared to July 2013

Benchmark Prices:

  • All Residential Properties: $628,000 – an increase of 4.4% compared to July 2013
  • Detached Properties: $980,500 – an increase of 6.5% compared to July 2013
  • Apartment Properties: $376,500 – an increase of 2.2% compared to July 2013
  • Attached Properties: $72,400 – an increase of 3.4% compared to July 2013

The President-elect of REBGV, Darcy McLeod says, “This is the fourth consecutive month that the Greater Vancouver market has exceeded 3,000 sales. Prior to this, our market had not surpassed the 3,000 sale mark since June of 2011. Today’s activity continues to put Metro Vancouver in the upper reaches of a balanced real estate market.”

To view the full REBGV July Statistics Report, click here.

If you have any questions regarding the above, please give us a call at 604-588-4466 or email us at info@brokersmart.ca