Law and Lawyers when Buying Property in the Kootenays

Navigating Real Estate Law and Lawyers: What to Know When Buying Property in the Kootenays

Explore how Real Estate Law and Lawyers shape property transactions in the Kootenays – navigate confidently.

Navigating the intricate web of real estate law, lawyers, and regulations requires a thorough understanding of the regional legal landscape.

Buying property in the picturesque Kootenays is a dream for many. Our breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant communities make it a sought-after destination for property investment. But, there’s more to the real estate journey than simply choosing the perfect view.

Read on as we dive into the key aspects of real estate law and lawyers when buying property in the Kootenays.

Understanding the Kootenays real estate market

Before embarking on your real estate journey, it’s essential to have a solid grasp of the Kootenays’ property market.

Our region’s unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty has contributed to a growing demand for properties. This demand influences pricing and competition and makes it crucial to stay informed about market trends and property values. Engaging with a local real estate agent can provide you with valuable insights into the market dynamics.

Legal considerations when buying property

  1. Title search and due diligence: One of the initial steps in purchasing property requires a title search. This process helps uncover any potential legal issues tied to the property, such as liens, encumbrances, or ownership disputes. Engaging a skilled real estate lawyer can ensure a thorough investigation, safeguarding you from unexpected legal complications down the road.
  2. Purchase agreements and contracts: A purchase agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the property transaction. Real estate lawyers play a pivotal role in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating these contracts to protect your interests. From contingencies related to property inspections to specifying the timeline for the deal’s completion, these agreements need to be meticulously crafted.
  3. Financing and mortgages: Financing a real estate purchase often involves mortgages, which can be complex legal documents. Your lawyer can assist in reviewing the terms of the mortgage agreement and ensuring that your rights are upheld. Additionally, they can guide you through the intricacies of securing a mortgage in compliance with local regulations.
  4. Property zoning and land use regulations: The Kootenays region is known for its diverse landscapes, and different areas might be subject to various zoning and land use regulations. Understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid future conflicts or limitations on how you can use the property. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you navigate these regulations effectively.
  5. Closing process and legal fees: As the transaction reaches its final stages, the closing process involves the transfer of funds, titles, and ownership. Real estate lawyers oversee this process to ensure all legal requirements are met. They’ll also provide a breakdown of the legal fees associated with the transaction.

The role of real estate lawyers

Real estate lawyers play an indispensable role in simplifying the complex legal landscape of property transactions. Here’s how they can guide you through the process:

  1. Legal expertise: A skilled real estate lawyer possesses a deep understanding of property laws, regulations, and local nuances. This expertise allows them to identify potential issues and provide tailored solutions.
  2. Due diligence: Lawyers conduct comprehensive due diligence to uncover any legal obstacles associated with the property. This could include reviewing property titles, surveys, and historical records to ensure a clear ownership transfer.
  3. Documentation and contracts: From drafting purchase agreements to reviewing contracts, lawyers ensure that all legal documents are accurate and complete, protecting your interests.
  4. Negotiation: Lawyers represent your interests during negotiations, ensuring that the terms and conditions of the deal align with your expectations.
  5. Mitigating risks: By identifying potential legal pitfalls, lawyers help minimize risks and prevent costly mistakes.

Buying property in the Kootenays of British Columbia offers a blend of natural beauty and investment potential. However, navigating the realm of real estate law requires expertise and attention to detail.

Engaging a knowledgeable real estate lawyer is an essential step to ensure a smooth and legally sound property transaction. From title searches to purchase agreements, their guidance will empower you to make informed decisions and embark on your Kootenays’ property journey with confidence.

We can help you navigate all the steps involved in purchasing property in the Kootenays. TALK TO US if you’re looking to buy in our beautiful corner of the world!

Why you should work with a real estate agent in the Kootenays

6 Reasons Why You Need a Real Estate Agent in the Kootenays

Buying or selling? Unleash the power of a skilled real estate agent in the Kootenays to ensure greater success in our unique local market.

The decision to buy or sell a property in the Kootenays is a significant one. So, it’s essential to have the best guidance throughout the process. We know that the rise of online real estate platforms makes home buyers and sellers believe you can handle everything on your own. But, the fact is, the value of a skilled and experienced real estate agent cannot be overstated.

To help you understand the importance of working with a local real estate agent in the Kootenays, please read on. We think you’ll find that it’s crucial for a more successful and stress-free property transaction.

1. Local expertise and market knowledge

The Kootenay region is known for its stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant communities. With its picturesque landscapes, lakes, and mountains, the Kootenays attract buyers from both local and international markets. The demand for properties in this region can be intense, leading to a highly competitive market. As such, having a professional realtor who understands the nuances and intricacies becomes even more critical.

One of the primary reasons to work with a real estate agent in the Kootenays is their in-depth knowledge of the local market. These professionals have their finger on the pulse of the Kootenays’ real estate trends. These include property values, market conditions, and neighbourhood dynamics. Their expertise allows them to provide accurate and up-to-date information, crucial when making informed decisions about buying or selling a property.

The Kootenays offer a wide range of property types, including residential homes, vacation properties, and investment opportunities. Each property type comes with its own set of considerations: zoning regulations, rental restrictions, and potential income-generating options. A professional realtor specializing in the Kootenay market will have the knowledge and experience to guide you through these complexities. They’ll help ensure that you make well-informed decisions that align with your goals and requirements.

2. Extensive network

Real estate agents in the Kootenays have built extensive networks of professionals in the industry. They are connected to professionals such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors, contractors, and other agents. This network can prove invaluable when navigating the complexities of buying or selling a property. By tapping into their connections, real estate agents can help you find trusted professionals. As a result, they can help negotiate better deals and streamline the entire transaction process.

3. Access to exclusive listings

In a competitive market like the Kootenays, some properties may not even make it to the online listings before being snatched up. However, a professional real estate agent in the Kootenays often has access to off-market opportunities – properties not publicly advertised but are available for sale. While online platforms offer a vast array of property listings, real estate agents often have access to exclusive listings that are not available to the general public.

Off-market properties can be hidden gems that you might miss out on without the assistance of a well-connected agent. These opportunities can provide you with unique advantages, such as less competition and the potential for better deals. By working with a real estate agent in the Kootenays, you increase your chances of finding the perfect property that meets your specific requirements.

Working with a skilled local realtor with a robust network gives you an edge over other buyers in the market.

4. Skilful Negotiation

Negotiating the best deal is a crucial aspect of any real estate transaction. Real estate agents in the Kootenays have honed their negotiation skills through years of experience in the local market. They can advocate for your best interests, whether you are buying or selling, and help you secure the most favourable terms and price. Their expertise in negotiation can save you both time and money, ensuring you get the best possible outcome.

5. Guidance and Support

Buying or selling a property can be an overwhelming process, especially for first-time homebuyers or sellers. Real estate agents provide valuable guidance and support throughout the entire transaction, from property search to closing. They can explain complex legal documents, assist with paperwork, and handle any unforeseen challenges that may arise. Having a reliable professional by your side can alleviate stress and give you peace of mind during this significant life event.

6. Mitigating Risks and Ensuring Due Diligence

Purchasing a property is a significant investment, and it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence to minimize risks. Professional realtors in the Kootenays have a wealth of knowledge regarding local regulations, permits, and potential issues that may arise in the region. They can help you identify any red flags or potential pitfalls associated with specific properties, ensuring that you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Furthermore, realtors have access to resources and tools that enable them to perform detailed market analyses, assess property values, and evaluate comparable sales. This data-driven approach helps you understand the market dynamics and determine the fair market value of a property, whether you’re buying or selling. By working with a professional realtor, you can have confidence in your investment decisions and mitigate the risks associated with the Kootenay market’s unique characteristics.

The Kootenay region‘s unique and in-demand real estate market requires the expertise of a professional realtor who understands its intricacies. These real estate professionals possess specialized knowledge of the region, its market trends, and the nuances associated with buying or selling properties in this picturesque area. They can provide access to off-market opportunities, mitigate risks, and ensure thorough due diligence. Partnering with a professional realtor in the Kootenays will give you a competitive advantage, helping you navigate the market with confidence and make sound investment decisions that align with your goals.

Discovering a Wonderful New Life: Relocating from the City to the West Kootenays

Make relocating from the city to the West Kootenays as smooth as possible – a few helpful tips! 

Relocating from the city to the peaceful tranquillity of the West Kootenay is nothing short of a life-changing experience. The West Kootenay region, located in southeastern British Columbia, offers stunning natural landscapes, a vibrant arts scene, and an inviting and welcoming regional community. 

But making such a big move requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some tips to help you make the move:

Research the area

Before you make any decisions, it’s essential to research the area you’re interested in moving to. Consider factors such as the cost of living, the job market, and the availability of amenities such as healthcare and schools. The West Kootenays are known for their high quality of life and laid-back lifestyle, but it’s important to make sure it’s the right fit for you and your family.

Visit the area

It’s always a good idea to visit the area before you make a move. Exploring the different towns offers you a chance to explore the local community and get a feel for the lifestyle. This region includes a range of incredible communities to choose from, each with its own unique character and charm. In addition to the larger, more well-known towns of Nelson and Castlegar: 

Trail

Trail is a city with a rich industrial history, known for its large smelter that has been in operation since 1895. The city has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, as well as a number of parks and recreational facilities. Trail is also home to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital and is located along the scenic Columbia River.

Rossland

Rossland is a small mountain town located just north of the US border. The town is surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Monashee Mountains and is known for its world-class skiing, mountain biking, trails network and golfing. Rossland has a thriving arts community and a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, making it a popular destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.

Fruitvale

Fruitvale is a charming village located just south of Trail. The village is home to a variety of shops and services, parks and recreational facilities. Located near the scenic Kootenay River, Fruitvale is known for its friendly community and small-town charm.

Christina Lake

Christina Lake is a small community located in a picturesque valley between the Monashee Mountains and the Selkirk Mountains. The community’s namesake is the pristine Christina Lake, which is known for its beautiful, crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. Christina Lake has a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, as well as access to hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and other recreational activities. It’s a popular destination for both vacationers and those seeking a peaceful, lakeside lifestyle.

Relocating from the city? Find a reputable real estate agent!

A good real estate agent can help you navigate the local housing market and find a home that meets your needs and budget. Century 21 Kootenay Homes is a full service real estate office covering the West Kootenays. We offer expert guidance on buying, selling or renting in the region and have a range of properties to choose from.

Looking for a home in the West Kootenay? READ our 6 Tips!

Consider your lifestyle needs

Moving to the West Kootenays can offer a significant, transformative lifestyle change. But, you should still carefully consider your lifestyle needs and the impacts of such a move. For example, if you’re used to the hustle and bustle of city life, it may take some time to adjust to a more relaxed pace. On the other hand, if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, or mountain biking, the West Kootenays offer endless opportunities.

Budget carefully

The cost of living in the West Kootenays can be lower than in larger cities, but it’s still important to budget carefully. Consider factors such as housing costs, transportation, and utilities. 

Relocating to the West Kootenays can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With stunning natural landscapes, a vibrant arts scene, and a welcoming community, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to make the move. With these tips, you can make a smooth transition and start enjoying all that the West Kootenays have to offer.

If you’re interested in buying a house in the Kootenays, we can help! Our expert team can guide you through the buying process and help you find the perfect property for your needs and budget. 

Talk to us about relocating from the city to the West Kootenay!

Affordability and Quality Living West Kootenay Lifestyle

Affordability and Quality Living – The West Kootenay Lifestyle

The Kootenay lifestyle beckons! Enjoy a superior quality of life that includes affordability and ALL of the desired amenities.

Are you looking for a lifestyle change that offers a better quality of life for you and your family? Look no further than the Kootenays! Nestled in the southeastern region of British Columbia, this incredible region offers an idyllic lifestyle with all the amenities you need to thrive, without the high costs and long commutes of city living.

The Kootenay region of British Columbia has long been a hidden gem for those seeking a high quality of life. There is more affordable housing than many other similar desired locations and a plethora of amenities and attractions. This region is an excellent option for families and people of all ages.

Housing affordability

If you’re considering a move to the Kootenays, you might be wondering about the cost of living. While rental prices can be high, as with just about everywhere else, buying property in the region is a smart investment.

One of the biggest draws of the Kootenays is the affordability of housing. Compared to major city centres like Vancouver and Toronto, housing in the Kootenays is much more affordable, allowing families and people of all ages to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. This is especially true in the communities surrounding Castlegar, Nelson, and Rossland. Families can find larger homes with spacious yards for a fraction of what they would pay in a major city. And with a variety of housing options available, from quaint cottages to sprawling estates, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

For example, looking at resort properties, the cost for vacant land at Copper Ridge, premiere residential lots along the first fairway at Redstone Resort, averages around only $250,000. Compare that to the resorts of Big White at around $600,000 or Whistler at a whopping median price of almost $3,500,000! If you’re looking at single-family homes, it’s equally dramatic. The median home price is around a million dollars at both Big White and Whistler. With the average cost of a single-family home in Rossland at only around $500,000, you’ll find that the West Kootenay offers a much better value for your money.

Remote working

The rise of remote work has made the Kootenay region even more attractive for families and professionals. Many people now have the flexibility to work from anywhere, and the Kootenay region offers a peaceful and serene environment to focus and be productive.

High-speed internet is widely available, making remote work or online schooling possible. Whether you work for a Silicon Valley tech company or an international business, you can enjoy a high quality of life in the Kootenays while still pursuing your career goals. And with the population and job opportunities in the region continuing to grow, the Kootenays are becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and work.

Vital services

Another advantage of living in the Kootenay region is the proximity to essential services. The region is home to several hospitals and medical clinics, ensuring that individuals and families have access to quality healthcare.

For those who need to travel, the airport in Castlegar provides easy access to major cities like Vancouver and Calgary, as well as Spokane, and Washington, in the United States.

Kootenay lifestyle – all about the amenities!

Saving the best for last! The benefits of the Kootenay lifestyle go well beyond the practicalities of housing, work and cost of living. The region is world-renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lakes, mountains, and forests that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, fishing, or just taking in the scenery, the Kootenays have something for everyone. And because the region is less populated than the big cities, outdoor enthusiasts don’t have to worry about long lines or crowds.

This region offers all of the amenities one would expect from a modern city. Boasting a vibrant arts scene, with local galleries, museums, and performance spaces, there are also plenty of local festivals and events. And with such friendly and welcoming communities, the Kootenays offer a sense of connection and belonging that can be hard to find in larger urban centres.

So if you’re ready for a change of pace and a better quality of life, consider making the move to the Kootenays! With affordable housing, access to all the amenities you need, and a wealth of natural beauty and cultural richness, the Kootenay lifestyle is hard to beat.

live practically at Red Mountains and ski the powder.

In the Heart of the Powder Highway – Redstone Resort!

Incredible golf for half the year, but winter? The epic Powder Highway®  is truly magical!

Here in Rossland, BC, Redstone Resort & Golf Course boasts the only Les Furber “Signature” golf course in Canada. Offering incredible opportunities for golfers of all ages and levels of skill, Redstone makes vacationing and living here a beautiful and memorable experience every day. And that’s just in spring, summer, and fall.

In winter, this region comes alive in an entirely different and exciting way. Here, nestled in our Kootenay Rockies, right here in our own backyard, world-renowned Red Mountain – one of the oldest ski areas in North America – offers one of the most epic and powder-filled stops along the epic POWDER HIGHWAY®.

Only five minutes away, some Rossland-ers ski or snowboard home after a day on the slopes. Some Red mountain staff commute to and from work on fat bikes instead of driving – it’s that close! And when you look at Rossland’s history, skiing is deeply intertwined. Since the 19th century, new immigrants, prospectors, and miners explored and adventured amidst the breathtaking peaks on long wooden skis before the first chairlift was introduced in 1949. 

Powder Highway – where and what is it?

Weaving in and out of some of British Columbia’s most scenic, quaint, and funky towns, including Rossland, the Powder Highway provides skiers and snowboarders from all over the world with some of the best powder and winter adventures in the world. 

Now legendary, this stretch of skiing, resort and backcountry, offers deep and abundant Kootenay powder enhanced by authentic, vibrant ski towns. Our region stands out as a premier skiing destination.

Between towns like Rossland and Nelson, Revelstoke, Golden, Invermere,  Kimberley, and Fernie, this renowned ski and snowboard route cuts through various celebrated mountain ranges – Selkirks and Purcells, the Rockies, and the Monashees. Truly your road to winter!

First stop – Rossland and RED Mountain

Begin your journey along the Powder Highway here. Unless you’re afraid you won’t leave! 

Considered the “last, great, unspoiled resort”, our own RED Mountain offers skiers and snowboarders 4200 pristine acres without the burden of overdevelopment you’ll find at other mountains. With 300 inches or over 7.5 metres of annual snowfall, you’ll find broad, open groomers, epic vertical, in-bounds cat-skiing and 360-degree descents off of select peaks. It’s no surprise to anyone who’s had the pleasure of experiencing the amazingness of RED that, in addition to ranking #1 in Powder’s “Ski Town Throwdown” and “Most Underrated Resort, by Skiing, it was ranked #8 “Best Place in the World to Visit in 2013”, by the NY Times

Rossland, like RED Mountain, is a blissfully undiscovered ski destination – a summer destination, too! Much like the mountain, the village of Rossland is a tranquil and uncrowded place, quaint and inviting – people come and never leave. The Scandinavians who arrived for the gold rush in 1890 clearly succumbed to the charm and beauty of the area. Like them, we understand the gem that Rossland is; only made that much more alluring thanks to the ample snow and incredible terrain.

Live here, play here – the ultimate in luxury living!

Fallen in love with Rossland? Let us introduce you to Copper Ridge! Imagine yourself living along the first fairway at Redstone Resort – year-round living and adventure only steps beyond your doorstep. 

 

Wake up to a pristine and beautiful winter wonderland where the epic, world-class powder is only a few minute’s drive. Fresh mountain air and endless outdoor recreation can be yours.  Find out more about our golf course properties for sale

Choose the Best Realtor to Buy or Sell a Home in the West Kootenay

How to Choose the Best Realtor to Buy or Sell a Home in the West Kootenay

Buying or selling a home in the West Kootenay? Choose the best realtor for your needs to help simplify and streamline the process.

There are nearly 80 realtors to choose from in the West Kootenay. As a result, with so many professionals to choose from, finding the best realtor, even in a small region like ours, can be quite overwhelming.

Finding the right person to help you buy or sell a home is important. To choose the best realtor, you must consider a few critical factors beyond simply the first sign you see on the highway coming into town. But, given that real estate sales is about marketing, the old adage, “you can’t judge a book…” may actually not apply. In fact, it’s the front-facing book’s cover stuff you want to look at to choose the best realtor for your needs.

The way a realtor markets themselves is a good reflection of how you can expect them to market a home. With that in mind, consider these basics to finding the best realtor, whether you’re buying or selling a house:

Check out their website and listings

Likely, the very first place you will come in contact with any realtor is when you begin your online search for a home in your desired area.

What does the realtor’s digital platform look like? Does it look professionally designed or does it seem like a DIY templated design? The quality and depth and breadth of their website and listings will indicate how up-to-date they are – how effectively they leverage digital media.

What is the quality of the listing photography? Or any of the photos on their website, including their professional portrait. Check out the email address they use. Does it include their brand address (URL), or are they still using an @gmail.com or @shaw.ca account for their business? Again, this is part of their professional presentation and could reflect how forward-thinking they might approach your home.

How do their digital assets compare to other local agents? Do other realtors leverage digital marketing more effectively? Look for a current and consistently updated blog section on their website – this means they are concerned with search engine optimization and increasing traffic to their site. Do you get a good idea of who the agent is, along with their mission and values? This will provide some insight into what the experience will be working with them.

To help you choose the best realtor. Check out their website. It should include:

  • An “About Me” section with details about themselves and their experience
  • A “Contact Me/Us” page so you can contact them easily
  • Original content – pages include content that is unique to them
  • Details on their previous listings or a  “Recent Sales” page
  • A “Testimonials” section where you can read first-hand experiences
  • Mobile optimization – it should read well and easily no matter the size of the device
  • Smooth navigation – you can find what you need quickly and easily

A marketing plan – online and print

It’s important that get information about how any realtor will approach their marketing. Does the realtor have a marketing plan for their listings? More specifically, what will be their marketing plan for your home? Can they outline their methodology for selling a home – a consistent standard regarding their website listing and any listings in print? Will they focus their attention online or are they still relying on hardcopy print?

Will they hire a professional photographer to showcase your property appropriately? They may even utilize drones and virtual tours.

Consider how they offer the information or feature sheets of their listings. Is it printed well, on high-quality paper? One photo printed on low-quality paper just won’t cut it! And, even on a single sheet, people will want to see multiple images to help entice them to move forward.

It’s amazing how many typos you can find in marketing materials, both online and in hard copy. You want your realtor to have attention to detail which will be evident in the quality of their marketing materials.

How to choose the best realtor? What is their availability to you?

If it’s a challenge to get hold of your realtor, or if you can’t easily get in touch through their website or email, chances are other realtors or potential buyers might, too. West Kootenay real estate moves quickly, and the easy availability of your realtor is essential.

Sign that your realtor might have limited availability:

  • Their cell phone isn’t on the website
  • They display only an office phone on all of their marketing materials
  • You always have to go through the office receptionist
  • There is only a contact form from their website, not a direct email address

If your agent is unavailable or has limited hours, do they have a partner or assistant that can knowledgeably run point? Is there a backup plan if they go away on vacation? Ask about their availability level and preferred method of contact – call, text, email.

Choosing the best realtor includes good communication. A great agent responds to you promptly, and the more ways you can reach them, the better.

Personal experience in the community

A local realtor is critical to understanding the area and finding the best neighbourhood for your needs. Look for a realtor who has experience working and living in the region and can identify the best homes that will suit your family and lifestyle. As a member of the community, your local realtor will give you great insights into schools, shopping, recreation, and more.

Choose the best LOCAL REALTOR! We want to help you buy or sell a home in the Kootenays! Talk to one of our agents TODAY!

6 Tips For Buying A House In The Kootenays

6 Tips For Buying A House In The Kootenays

Thinking of buying a house in the Kootenays? Here are a few helpful hints as you begin your search for your Koots dream home!

Among the many lessons learned during the pandemic, one of the most potent would have to be that where you live is vitally important. It’s why we’ve seen such an exodus to the Kootenays from the city.

With teleworking going mainstream, the Kootenays have become even more appealing, where remote workers can enjoy the very best in lifestyle, recreation, and low-stress living. And, no question, the renewed interest in our region has made our real estate market just a little crazy!

That said, if you are considering buying a house in the Kootenays, here are a few insights to help you make more informed decisions as you take the leap:

1. When you’re buying a house in the Kootenays, look for a local realtor who knows the area

We can’t overstate how important it is that you choose a realtor who is local to the area. When you are buying a house in the Kootenays, a local agent will know all the ins and outs of the neighbourhood and community. Their experience living and working in the region will provide a much more accurate guide to the area. And the home that will best suit your family and lifestyle. As a part of the community, your realtor can provide valuable insight into shopping, schools, recreation, and more.

And, as a buyer, you don’t pay for the services of a realtor. So, it’s a no-brainer that you should utilize the services of the most knowledgeable agent possible. Keep in mind that you may not want to call the listing agent – they work for the seller. You want to work with a realtor who will serve you as a buyer, separate from the selling process.

2. Become familiar with the local real estate market

There are a variety of factors that affect any real estate market. Keep in mind that all markets are local and reflect their own unique trends. One neighbourhood may exhibit something very different from another, even in the same city or region.

You need to understand the market you’re interested in so that you don’t overpay for the home you want.

 3. Ask your realtor to explain transaction brokerage

Building on the point above, BC real estate agents can provide both customer and client services – seller and buyer.  When an agent works for only one client in a home purchase – the seller or the buyer – they need to fulfil certain legal obligations:

  • Undivided loyalty to their client
  • Act on behalf of the interests of their client at all times
  • Must avoid conflict of interests
  • Disclose any conflict of interests as they appear

When an agent works with both buyer and seller, an agent can’t fulfil the legal responsibilities. In a transaction brokerage, the conflict of interest is inherent. They can’t provide for the best interests of either you or the seller. As the buyer, you hope to pay as little as possible. The seller, on the other hand, wants as much as possible in the sale of their home. It’s impossible for an agent to advocate for the buyer and represent the seller’s interests in one transaction.

Enter the transaction brokerage – when the real estate agent provides facilitation services to both parties. They include:

  • Helping to negotiate an agreement between the buyer and seller
  • Providing both the buyer and seller with all property information and statistics, including comparative sales information from listing services and databases
  • Prepare and provide agreements of purchase and sale, and other relevant documents according to the instructions of the buyer and seller

A transaction brokerage means the agent treats both buyer and seller in a fair, objective, and impartial way. They maintain neutrality and advocate for neither you, the buyer, nor the seller. Additionally, they cannot provide confidential advice to either party. <

If an agent pursues a transaction brokerage, they must get informed consent from both the buyer and seller – signing an Agreement to Represent both Buyer and Seller.

4. Make use of technology

This probably goes without saying, as chances are you’ve been perusing listings in your desired location on the internet already.

But, as with most other sectors, technology has transformed the real estate industry. And certainly, during the pandemic, it’s proved revolutionary when it comes to remote buying and the purchase of homes sight unseen – previously mostly unheard of!

Finding properties online helps effectively narrow the search and, let’s face it, is fun to do! It’s also easier than ever. In the comfort of your own living room, you can explore homes through beautiful photographs and video tours and get the ball rolling with electronic signatures.

Most real estate agencies will make your online experience as thorough and detailed as possible, leveraging all of the digital technologies to make it as easy as possible to find the home of your dreams.

BUT… the online experience doesn’t give you the full experience of a home. We recommend you find your options online and then schedule a visit. Only when touring a home in person can you get the full impression – the warmth and character, smells, the proper perspective on the size of space.

5. Do you want to buy new or pre-owned?

Before you begin your home search, identify if a new build is better for you, or if you would prefer something pre-owned and established in the neighbourhood. Or, perhaps you want to purchase bare land and build your dream home. Which will better suit your lifestyle and needs?

Familiarize yourself with the market and potential costs associated with a fixer-upper or building new. Throughout the pandemic, building supplies spiked in price – as much as 20%! – making it far less practical for many in the market for a new home.

An older home is likely to require work. How much time do you have to dedicate to home improvements or to wait for a contractor to complete the job?

6. Buying a house in the Kootenays – find the pros you need!

In addition to your realtor, when you are buying a house in the Kootenays, there are other professionals you will likely need to rely on in the purchase of your home. Here’s a list:

Home inspector
A home inspector tops the list. They will evaluate the condition of the home and identify issues big and small before you buy. A home inspector can also find any issues of safety or things that might cause future problems. In the case of a remote purchase, a home inspection is vital.

Contractor:
Knowing a good contractor is important, particularly when you want to purchase a pre-owned or older home. Our clients look to contractors to look over their home of interest to help identify possible problems or to estimate costs of fixes or renovations, so they can include the costs in their financing.

Appraiser:
A property appraiser is trained to assess the true value of a home. Before you get a mortgage, you will need to employ the services of an appraiser to provide the bank with the confirmed sales price.

This is often arranged through your lender and you don’t need to be onsite.

Lawyer:
You can’t close on your home without enlisting the services of a real estate attorney. They will review all documents and advise on any issues or omissions in the paperwork. In today’s market, a lawyer needs experience with software such as DocuSign and Authentisign, required to close the deal, particularly when it’s from a distance.

See a listing you like? We would love to help you find your new home in the Kootenays! Talk to one of our agents TODAY!

How to Accessorize Your Front Entryway

How to Accessorize Your Front Entryway

Your front entryway is one of the first things guests see when they step inside your home, so make sure it is making a good first impression.

 

Your front entryway is one of the first things guests see when they step inside your home, so make sure it is making a good first impression. Whether you have a grand area or small nook, let your entryway make a warm and welcoming impact with these accessorizing tips.

1. ​Incorporate Storage Solutions

Your entryway is the drop-zone for coats, backpacks, purses, keys and more so make sure you have a designated spot to store these everyday items. Include a cubby console or built-in cabinets so you can stay organized and hide the clutter. If you are working with a smaller space, use the vertical area by hanging hooks or floating selves. Be sure to include baskets and bowls for your smaller items so you are never running around looking for your lost keys again.

2. ​Dress Up the Walls

Walls are often forgotten when it comes to accessorizing, but they are a great way to showcase your personal style while adding dimension to any room. Make your walls pop with a bright paint colour or bold wallpaper. If you are looking for something less permanent, try adding an eye-catching mirror or your favourite artwork. Can’t decide what looks best? Include it all! Entryways can be the perfect area to place collages. Check this guide to design the perfect wall collage of picture frames.

3. ​Add a Place to Sit

No matter how big or small your space is, including a place to sit is a must for entryways. Having a comfortable place to lounge while waiting or when putting on shoes will make a great impression on any visitor. Add a small stool for tight spaces or try one of these DIY entryway benches with additional storage to help your entryway stay tidy and organized.

4. ​Roll Out the Welcome Carpet

Don’t forget about the floor when accessorizing your entryway. A rug will add a pop of colour to any area, and they come in all shapes and sizes to fit your space perfectly. Plus, they will help keep dirt and debris from spreading throughout your home.

5. ​Decorate with Your Style

Décor pieces can easily be added to any sized entryway to welcome visitors and showcase your style. Vases, candles, and accent objects can be used alone or combined to make your entryway pop. Plus, fashionable lamps, clocks, table mirrors, and bowls can add to your design while serving a utilitarian function to make leaving your home quick and easy. Plants are also a great décor addition that help clean the air and reduce stress as well. Your carefully selected décor pieces will display your personality while making a great first impression on your guests and welcoming you home every day.

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Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2021 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

 

REALTOR® Kootenay Homes C21 Lisa Nichol

Welcome Lisa Nicole to the team!

HERE WE GROW AGAIN!! It’s official folks…..our very own Lisa Nicole has become a licensed REALTOR ® with Century 21 Kootenay Homes.
Lisa has been our in-house social media expert for the last few years and her decision to become an agent was a no-brainer.
Please help us in welcoming  Lisa  to our sales team.

Contact Lisa at: 

C: 778-554-9289
E:  lisa.nicole@c21.ca
W: lisanicolerealestate.com
IG: @lisanicolerealestate

Kootenay Home Redstone Resort Alzheimer's Fundraiser

Alzheimers Society $25,000 Goal of Raised!

A big thanks to everyone who came out to the Forget Me Not Golf Tournament 2021 to raise money for Alzheimers Society of BC ! It was a great day to be on the golf course for a good cause 💙

The numbers are in! We raised $7,500 at the Forget Me Not Golf Tournament and our $25,000 goal has been met and exceeded! To date we have raised $26,621 for Alzheimer Society of B.C. ! Thanks to everyone who came out to support these events and all our sponsors who make it happen!