The perfect house may sit on the market for awhile
By Cheryl McCart Sales Representative for Century 21 B.J. Roth

B.J. Roth's Cheryl McCart

Well I can't begin to tell you just how much I am enjoying the nicer weather. It's so amazing to be able to walk around the neighbourhood without the kids walking like little stuffed weebles!

I have had a great opportunity to get out and meet so many new people in the community while they are enjoying the new season. During one conversation with a frustrated seller, I decided that the topic regarding why certain houses haven't been selling, and sellers asking why they are getting so few showings, should be addressed. The majority of the listings in question were put on the market shortly before we were pummeled with snow week after week. The weather is an important factor and those listings that suffered through the storms are now being somewhat shunned.

I encourage buyers to see this as an opportunity, don't avoid these houses out of fear, and check them out for yourself.

If the length of time the house has been on the market is the foremost reason holding you back from adding it to your list of potentials, I encourage you to put it back on that list. .

On a positive note, I received some great news from, Jennifer Fee of Mortgage Intelligence. She has informed me that the Bank of Canada has dropped their rate and bank prime is expected to drop to 4.75 per cent. A vital step in purchasing a house is contacting your bank or a mortgage broker to get a pre-approval.

This will give you a very good idea of what price range you should be looking at and how much the loan will cost you on a monthly basis.

Be careful not to shop too much for a better rate or higher approval as every time they pull your credit bureau it has a negative impact on your Beacon score, which in turn can result in a higher mortgage rate and higher monthly payments.

Once you have your preapproval in place then the fun part begins; looking for the perfect home.

I have some clients who believe that when they walk into the house they will know it is right because they get a special feeling, while others make their choice based on more concrete reasons such as the number of bedrooms in the right neighbourhood or a separate quarters for their in-laws. Recently, I had a client who needed a large enough master for their beautiful massive four poster bed, considering also that in a two story it had to be able to maneuver up the stairs.

Everyone has different wants and needs and it is very important that you communicate your wishes, even if you think it's an odd or difficult desire it helps me to paint the picture of what you are looking for to ultimately find the house you wish to make your home.

For sellers, preparing to place your home on the market here are some things to consider.

Painting: When it comes to preparing a house for sale, a quality paint job gives you the best return for money spent. Which rooms should you paint? Any that have dirty or marked walls or any rooms that are currently painted dark colours.

Keep it neutral - offwhite, antique white or taupe is the best.

Carpeting: At the very least, all carpeting needs to be steamed cleaned. Any worn, stained or foul smelling carpet should be replaced. You may be tempted to give a carpet allowance and that may work. Just remember, most buyers are unable to see beyond.

I've even received a flyer for a company who is promoting that you don't have to pay for the flooring until the house is sold!)

Clutter: If an item is not necessary for your day-today life, box it up and store it or throw it out!

Doors and windows: Check all for smooth operation. Replace any cracked window panes. Open up in the daytime and let the sun shine in. Pull back your curtains and drapes so prospects can see how bright and cheery your home is.

I am really enjoying writing this column and all the input and commentary from my friends and community.

Please continue to e-mail or phone with any questions or thoughts to weewo@rogers.com or 828- 3030.