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        <title>Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/7-tips-for-your-living-room/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/7-tips-for-your-living-room/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>7 Tips For Your Living Room</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 




The living room or family room is often a focal point for buyers who come to see your listing. They’ll look around and imagine relaxing evenings, family gettogethers, and holidays celebrated in that room. So it’s important to ensure it looks its best. Here are professional staging tips for doing just that:


1. Neutralize the palette.


Consider repainting walls in shades of beige, grey, or off-white. These hues will appeal to a broader range of buyers and allow them to visualize their own décor in the space. These colours will also make the room look bigger.


2. Strategic Furniture Placement.


Position furniture away from walls, if possible, to create a cozy, conversational setting. Keep pathways clear to ensure easy movement and make the space feel more open.


3. Invest in Key Pieces.


A few standout items can elevate the entire look. Perhaps it’s a chic coffee table, an elegant sofa, or a statement rug. And remember – you get to take these with you when you sell.


4. Add Textural Elements.


Incorporate soft throws, plush pillows, or a tactile rug. These elements create a cozy atmosphere that can make potential buyers feel right at home.


5. Minimize Electronics.


While many family rooms are centred around the TV, when staging, it’s advisable to downplay its dominance. Consider a tasteful cabinet or decorative screen to partially hide large electronics.


6. Greenery and Fresh Flowers.


Potted plants, succulents, or a vase of fresh flowers can add vibrancy and a sense of freshness.


7. Accessorize Thoughtfully.


Less is more when it comes to accessories. A few well-chosen pieces – like a decorative bowl, coffee table, books, or elegant candlesticks – can provide the finishing touches without overwhelming the space.


Want more tips on selling your home faster and for top dollar? Contact us today
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    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:39:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/interest-rates-in-edmontons/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/interest-rates-in-edmontons/</link>
        <author>Paul@PaulLamba.com (Paul Lamba)</author>
        <title>Understanding How Interest Rates Affect Home Affordability in Edmonton’s Real Estate Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Interest rates are a crucial element of buying a home, but if you're new to real estate, you might be wondering what exactly interest rates are and how they affect your ability to purchase a home. In this post, we'll break down what interest rates are, how they work, and how recent changes are impacting the real estate market in Edmonton.





What Is an Interest Rate?


An interest rate is essentially the cost of borrowing money. When you take out a mortgage to buy a home, you don’t just pay back the amount you borrowed; you also pay interest, which is a percentage of the loan amount. For example, if you borrow $200,000 with a 5 interest rate, you’ll pay back more than $200,000 due to the interest charges.


How Do Interest Rates Work?


Interest rates are set by banks and can fluctuate based on economic conditions, central bank policies, and other factors. When interest rates are high, borrowing money becomes more expensive, and when rates are low, borrowing is cheaper. These changes can affect how much you end up paying each month and over the life of the loan.


The Impact of Interest Rates on Home Affordability




Monthly Mortgage Payments When interest rates rise, your monthly mortgage payments increase. For instance, if you’re borrowing $300,000 and the interest rate is currently 4.25, your monthly payment might be around $1,476. If the rate rises to 5, the payment could increase to approximately $1,610. This additional $134 per month can significantly impact your monthly budget. Example: At a 4.25 interest rate, a $300,000 mortgage results in a monthly payment of about $1,476. If the rate increases to 5, the monthly payment could rise to around $1,610. This additional $134 per month can have a substantial effect on your budget, potentially affecting your ability to afford the same home.


Total Cost of the Loan Over the life of the mortgage, higher interest rates result in paying more in total. For example, a 30-year mortgage at 4.25 might cost you around $197,000 in interest over the life of the loan, whereas a 5 rate could increase that cost to about $277,000. This means you’re paying thousands of dollars more in interest with higher rates.




How Recent Interest Rate Changes Are Impacting Edmonton’s Real Estate Market




Reduced Buying Power As interest rates increase, buyers may find their purchasing power reduced. This means that you might need to look for a less expensive home or consider different neighborhoods that fit within your new budget constraints. Example: If your budget allowed you to buy a $400,000 home before the rate increase, you might now need to search for homes priced at $350,000 or less to keep your mortgage payments manageable.


Longer Selling Times For those looking to sell their homes, higher interest rates can slow down the market. Fewer buyers may be interested due to increased borrowing costs, which can lead to homes sitting on the market longer. Sellers may need to adjust their expectations and pricing strategies to attract buyers.


Impact on Real Estate Investors Investors also feel the pinch from higher interest rates. The increased cost of financing can reduce the profitability of rental properties, leading investors to rethink their strategies or explore alternative financing options.







Strategies to Manage Affordability in a Changing Interest Rate Environment




Consider Fixed-Rate Mortgages A fixed-rate mortgage locks in your interest rate for the entire term of the loan, providing stability in your monthly payments despite rate fluctuations.


Save for a Larger Down Payment By putting more money down upfront, you can reduce the total loan amount and, consequently, your monthly payments. This can help make homeownership more affordable even when interest rates are high.


Shop Around for the Best Rates Different lenders offer various rates. Comparing rates from multiple lenders can help you find the best deal and potentially save money over the life of your loan.







Interest rates play a significant role in determining how affordable a home is and can greatly impact both buyers and sellers in Edmonton’s real estate market. As rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive, affecting how much home you can afford and how long it might take to sell your property. Understanding these dynamics and exploring strategies to manage your mortgage costs can help you make informed decisions in the current market. If you need more personalized advice or have questions about navigating these changes, feel free to reach out for expert guidance.


Need advice on what your home needs to sell fast and for top dollar? Call today


???? 780-951-2378  
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    <pubDate>Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:43:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/coming-soon-sandstone-valley-calgary/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/coming-soon-sandstone-valley-calgary/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Coming Soon Sandstone Valley, Calgary</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Coming Soon135 Sandringham Rd NW, Calgary$600,000Close To Nose Hill Park &amp; Easy Access Into Downtown CalgaryLarge Home On Corner Lot3 Large Bedrooms &amp; Main Floor Office2.5 BathroomsDouble Attached GarageCall/message us for more details: 403-681-0319
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    <pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2024 12:12:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/congrats-to-our-buyers-kings-heights-airdrie/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/congrats-to-our-buyers-kings-heights-airdrie/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Congrats To Our Buyers Kings Heights, Airdrie</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Congratulations to our buyers



Welcome to Airdrie We are so excited for you to begin your next chapter here





If You Are Looking To Buy Or Sell ...


Give us a call, we would love to help


403-681-0319












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    <pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2024 10:13:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/edmontons-housing-boom-a-record-breaking-surge-in-new-home-builds/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/edmontons-housing-boom-a-record-breaking-surge-in-new-home-builds/</link>
        <author>reubentucker91@gmail.com (Reuben Tucker)</author>
        <title>Edmonton's Housing Boom: A Record-Breaking Surge in New Home Builds</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Edmonton’s housing market is booming, with new homes being built at a record-breaking pace. The latest data from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) reveals over 10,000 new housing starts from January to July 2024, with all housing types seeing a surge in demand.


Single-family detached homes are leading the way, with starts up 67 compared to last year, while semi-detached homes and townhomes have also experienced strong growth. Apartment construction has seen a 71 increase, driven mainly by rental properties, which are up by 75. Even the often-overlooked condominium market is bouncing back, with a 42 rise in new builds as more buyers turn to affordable options.


New zoning laws have further fueled development, allowing builders to revitalize older neighbourhoods with modern infill projects, adding much-needed housing supply and increasing neighbourhood density.


Despite this rapid growth, Edmonton’s new homes remain relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Canada. For example, the average price of a new single-family home in Edmonton is $635,938, much lower than in Calgary and Toronto, where prices are significantly higher. With borrowing costs expected to drop, demand for single-family homes is likely to grow, helping to reduce the available inventory in the coming months.


Have any questions? Contact us today - we are always here for our clients.





Information Cited: Schlesinger , J. (2024, September 12). Edmonton new homes activity ramps up amid strong demand for housing. Retrieved September 16, 2024, from https://edmontonjournal.com/life/homes/edmonton-new-homes-activity-ramps-up-amid-strong-demand-for-housing
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    <pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:41:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/welcome-to-our-newsletter-september-2024/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/welcome-to-our-newsletter-september-2024/</link>
        <author>chrisraven09@gmail.com (Chris Raven)</author>
        <title>Welcome to our Newsletter, September, 2024</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Dear Reader,


I hope you had a wonderful summer filled with happy memories and lots of vitamin D. With fall quickly approaching, cooler days begin to creep up on us. As the weather begins to cool, studies have shown our productivity increases, since our bodies don’t need to work as hard to maintain their internal temperature, freeing up our energy to be productive.


Maybe that productivity has you considering a fall reno project. The fall is a good time to scan your home and ask yourself what repairs or replacements are needed before they pile up on each other. Or maybe you have been considering a home improvement that has been on your wish list, like an updated bathroom.


Whether it’s a necessary home maintenance project or more of an improvement project, you can always count on me for contractor recommendations for any number of renovation projects, as well as information about what kind of return on investment you could expect from it. I can also provide insights into what buyers are looking for these days. Please feel free to call or email me. I’m always happy to help.



Defending Your Data: Keeping Your Wifi Secure





As smart technology becomes more prevalent, so too does our use of Wi-Fi, increasing our vulnerability to cyberattacks. So how do you keep your Wi-Fi secure?




Use strong passwords (i.e., at least eight characters using upper and lowercase, numbers, and symbols, and don’t re-use passwords – use a password management software to keep track), change them regularly, and enable two-factor authentication where possible.




Use a VPN, which encrypts your connection.






Enable auto updates on your devices, and ensure your modem and router are updated, replacing them at least every 5 years.






Change default modem and router passwords  so no unauthorized user within signal range can access your network.






Disable remote router access, which can leave the door open to hackers.






Change your network name.  Avoid using the default provider name or a name with personal information, which provides vulnerability clues.






Enable a Wi-Fi guest network to segregate devices (e.g., put your computer devices on the main network and your smart devices on a guest network), limiting the scope of potential breaches.






Enable Wi-Fi Protected Access 3  (WPA3) if available on your device, for increased data protection. 






A simple online search can guide you through making the above changes if you are unsure. Cybercrime is only expected to skyrocket in the coming years, so doing everything you can to protect your personal information will help you not become a victim.



How to Create a Fur-Friendly Home





A living space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing requires some creativity, especially if you have four-legged family members, but with some thought it can be done. Consider these tips:


Pet proof your home. Keep electrical cords, medicines, and cleaners out of reach, trash cans covered, gate off “no-go” areas, and put childproof latches on cabinets.


Choose scratch and stain-resistant flooring  such as hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile. Avoid carpets, which can trap odours and are prone to stains. As for rugs, choose options that are washable, or are forgiving of stains and pet hair.


For storing pet paraphernalia like toys and grooming supplies, think stylish bins or baskets, or an ottoman with storage.  For cats, you can hang a sisal scratch pad cover over the arm of a sofa for a stylish option.


Seamlessly incorporate pet furniture into your décor. Think litter boxes hidden with custom cabinetry or a room divider, a bench with a pet bed underneath, or a pull-out kitchen drawer for pet dishes. Pet furniture that mimics regular furniture, like a mini sofa is also an option.


As for your furniture, opt for machine-washable slipcovers or fabrics resistant to stains, fur, and odours like leather, velvet, microfiber, and canvas. Protect fabrics with spray-on stain guard. 


Finally, wherever you like to sit in your home, the resident fur babies probably do too, so include throw blankets for them, or place their pet bed nearby.



AI Home Makeover





With AI rapidly infiltrating every area of our lives, home design inspo is no exception. There are a variety of AI interior design programs or apps to choose from, many with free versions or trials, and for a fee, you can access advanced features.


So how can you use AI for home decorating? It depends on the program you are using, but with some, you can upload a picture of your existing room, select a design style you like, and it will provide you some renderings for ideas.


With some programs, you can also visualize a specific piece of furniture in a room, or get suggestions for furniture layout, lighting, paint colours, and space optimization.


To get other fellow human opinions, some programs have community boards where you can post your designs to get feedback and suggestions.


If you want to take it a step further, there are programs where you can work virtually with an AI program and an interior designer at a fraction of the in-person cost.


Just remember, AI capabilities are brought to their fullest potential if used properly, meaning:






Be as specific as possible with your prompts.






Have measurements, photos, and links to current furniture.






Experiment with different AI design programs for different ideas.  






And, of course, don’t forget human creativity. Since AI relies on pre-existing data, it’s best used as a supplementary tool to human imagination.



Notable, Quotable, Quotes


“Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible.”


Audrey Hepburn



“Don’t count the days, make the days count.”


Muhammad Ali


“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.”


Robert Frost


 


 
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    <pubDate>Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:08:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/selling-with-maxwell-rockies-realty/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/selling-with-maxwell-rockies-realty/</link>
        <author>chrisraven09@gmail.com (Chris Raven)</author>
        <title>Selling with Maxwell Rockies Realty</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Selling with Maxwell Rockies Realty


In a competitive market where new homes for sale are added daily, your listing needs to be seen in a variety of places in order to stand out As your Seller's Agency, we'll quickly put together a custom marketing plan with an effective price.


HOW WE SELL





Our Strategy


1.  Sell with a custom marketing plan.


2. Get your home listed and talked about everywhere, not just in the local paper and on your street. 


3. Attract buyers via the Internet.


4. Have all the paperwork taken care of for you.


5. Using our Negotiating Skills between Buyer and Seller.






As your Seller's Agency


As your Seller's Agency, we'll quickly put together a custom marketing plan with an effective price. Our market analysis takes into account the most actively searched prices, andhome values throughout your area, including expired listings, and properties still on the market.






Our Network of Buyers


Our network of professional real estate contacts, buyers throughout the nation and targeted audience will also have the opportunity to check out your listing. In addition, we'll use the Internet, and our professionally optimized website, to make your listing highly visible. With more than 80 per cent of buyers checking the web first when looking for a home, that's a part of our selling strategy you can't afford to miss.

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    <pubDate>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:57:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/yeg-real-estate-results-august-2024--jfsellscom/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/yeg-real-estate-results-august-2024--jfsellscom/</link>
        <author>john@jfsells.com (John Fraser)</author>
        <title>YEG REAL ESTATE RESULTS AUGUST 2024 – JFSELLS..COM</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
No slump in Edmonton’s property market as numbers begin to cool.


There were a total of 2,591 residential unit sales in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market during August 2024, an 11.8 decrease from July 2024, but still 15.8 higher than August 2023. New residential listings amounted to 3,467, down 7.0 from July 2024, and up 7.7 higher from August 2023. Overall inventory in the GEA decreased 1.2 month-over-month and is tracking 13.8 lower than August 2023.








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    <pubDate>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:40:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/the-15-most-expensive-houses-in-the-world-for-2024/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/the-15-most-expensive-houses-in-the-world-for-2024/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>The 15 Most Expensive Houses In The World For 2024</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Click the link below to see this years most expensive houses in the world.


Thank you to The Close for this article.


The 15 Most Expensive Houses In The World For 2024
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    <pubDate>Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:17:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/-sip-sept/</guid>
    <link>https://www.katherinetubil.ca/blog/-sip-sept/</link>
        <author>Paul@PaulLamba.com (Paul Lamba)</author>
        <title>✦☆✭ Sip into September✭☆✦</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The Best End-of-Summer and Fall Drinks to Try This Month


As September blends the final notes of summer with the onset of fall, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a variety of delightful beverages. Whether you’re savoring the last warm days or getting cozy for fall, we’ve rounded up the best drinks from Edmonton’s favorite cafes and beyond. Here’s your guide to sipping in style this September





Good Earth Coffee House


Chai Horchata Latte Experience a unique twist on classic chai with the Chai Horchata Latte. This creamy delight combines traditional chai spices with the rich, smooth flavors of horchata, creating a beverage that’s both comforting and exotic.


Pumpkin Pie Caffè Latte Embrace the fall spirit with the Pumpkin Pie Caffè Latte. This drink blends pumpkin, spice, and espresso for a deliciously seasonal treat that tastes just like your favorite pumpkin pie.


Horchata Cold Brew with Cold Foam For a refreshing yet indulgent option, try the Horchata Cold Brew with Cold Foam. This cool, creamy drink merges the bold flavors of cold brew coffee with the sweet, spiced notes of horchata, topped with velvety cold foam.


Felice Café


Banana Chai Add a sweet twist to your chai with the Banana Chai at Felice Café. This inventive drink blends ripe banana with traditional chai spices, offering a fruity, spicy combination that’s both unique and satisfying.


Spicy Chai For those who love an extra kick, the Spicy Chai is the way to go. With an extra dose of spice, this chai delivers a bold and invigorating flavor that’s perfect for transitioning into fall.


Waves Coffee House


Marshmallow Matcha Frappe Cool off with a Marshmallow Matcha Frappe. This end-of-summer treat combines the earthy notes of matcha with the sweet, nostalgic flavor of marshmallows, making it a fun and refreshing choice.


S’mores Frappe Get cozy with a S’mores Frappe. This indulgent drink brings together the classic flavors of s’mores with a cool, creamy frappe base, making it a delicious way to enjoy a summer campfire treat.


District Café


Pumpkin Spice Latte with Vanilla or Caramel Syrup Elevate your Pumpkin Spice Latte with a choice of vanilla or caramel syrup at District Café. This seasonal favorite can be customized to suit your taste, adding an extra layer of sweetness to your fall favorite.


Starbucks 


Everyone’s favourite classic fall features


Pumpkin Spice Latte You can’t go wrong with the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte. This iconic fall beverage features a blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.


Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai For a refreshing twist on fall flavors, try the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai. This iced chai tea is enhanced with pumpkin cream, making it a cool yet cozy choice for those transitioning into fall.


Iced Apple Crisp Chai The Iced Apple Crisp Chai offers a delightful fusion of apple and chai spices. This chilled drink is perfect for enjoying the crisp fall air while savoring the taste of autumn apples.



September is a fantastic time to enjoy a mix of end-of-summer and fall beverages. Whether you’re cooling off with a refreshing treat or warming up with cozy fall flavors, these drinks from Edmonton’s favorite cafes and beyond are sure to delight. Cheers to a month of delicious sips and seasonal transitions


 


Need advice on anything Real Estate? Call today


☎️ 780-951-2378 ???? Also visit my website http://www.paullamba.com/


 


topproducer paullamba paullambateam becauseicare yegrealestate yeg yegre yeghomes yegrealtor edmontonrealestate edmontonrealtor
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    <pubDate>Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:26:00 -0600</pubDate>
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