Winnipeg Real Estate Blog

Winnipeg Real Estate News & Market Updates

Phone: (204) 792-6453

Silver Heights Home Sells $42,800 Under-List Price

By Leave a Comment

Beautiful Home, for more information on this property click image or call Michael Leclerc 204-792-6453
Beautiful Home, for more information on property click image-call Michael Leclerc 204-792-6453

Taking a closer look at the December 2015 MLS Market in the Northwest area of Winnipeg 94.6%  of homes changed hands under list price price. The average sale price of a home decreased by 25.9% compared to the same period in 2014.

Active listings, December 2015: 137

Active listings, December 2014: 131

New listings for the month of December, 2015: 23

Winnipeg Real Estate Information Special Request

Homes sold for the month of December, 2015: 56

Homes sold for the month of December, 2014: 67

Sales to listing ratio, December 2015: 48%

Sales to listing ratio, December 2014: 56%

It pays to know the average price of homes for sale in your neighbourhood, as well as that of homes that have sold, including both over-list and under-list sales. We track all Winnipeg neighbourhoods daily, which allows us to more accurately set list prices on the homes we sell, while also making intelligent offers. If you would like a Free Home Value Appraisal in The Oaks, Monterery Park, Headingley, Centreport, Optimist Park Heritage Park, Crestview, St. Charles, Westwood, Grace Hospital, St. James, Silver Heights, Deer Lodge, Polo Park and Wolseley, please Contact Us or Call (204) 792-6453. We track the market closely and you can too with Winnipeg Market Tracker.

Average days to sell a home, December 2015: 36

Average days to sell a home, December 2014: 33

Average sales price, December 2015: $214,987

Average sales price, December 2014: $290,285

Lowest sales price for the month: $70,000, Ross Avenue

Highest sales price for the month: $557,000, Portage Avenue

Track the Winnipeg Real Estate Market!! Free Automated Email Service allows you to track the MLS market in real time. Follow the values in any neighborhood in Winnipeg. Find out what your neighbor’s house down the street sold for. Follow Winnipeg MLS listings in real time. Visit Winnipeg Market Tracker!

 
This information is courtesy of:
The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team
Royal LePage Top Producers
Winnipeg MB
Phone: (204) 792-6453

Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team February Newsletter

By Leave a Comment

topbanner

When you’re involved in real estate, the focus is always on the future. So, even though it feels like time moves slowly at this time of year – it’s the perfect time to look ahead to the Spring. If you would like a professional perspective on the current real estate market and expectations for 2016, please give me a call, text or send me an email. After all, the Spring market really is just around the corner.

How Do You Determine What You Need to Do?

Say you’re a homeowner wanting to sell your two-storey, detached home. You sit down and make a list of things that need to get done to make your property as attractive as possible to buyers.

You consider the backyard. “Hmm,” you think. “Doesn’t our deck need a new finish and our flowerbed need new edging stones?”

Then you think about the living room. “The carpeting is old. We really should replace it.”

Then you step into the kitchen and think, “Our kitchen cabinets look worn. We should get a contractor to quote on replacing them. Maybe we should install a brand new shiny sink and faucet too. That should increase the resale value of our home, shouldn’t it?”

Before you know it, you have a long list of updates, repairs and renovations that you think should be done before listing and you haven’t even reached the second floor!

It’s easy to get carried away with a list of repairs and upgrades that need to be done to prepare your home for the market. But, you don’t want to end up spending more money than you’ll ever get back from the eventual sale. So, how do you determine what improvements you should be making in order to get your property ready to be listed?

That’s easy. Talk to us.

We can inspect your property and advise you of the repairs and upgrades you need to make. We will know what buyers are looking for, and will also have a good idea of the return on investment you can expect from a particular improvement.

We may also be able to recommend reputable tradespeople and other professionals to assist you in making those improvements.

So go ahead and make that long list. Then, let’s review it, so you can make an informed decision on how to get your property ready for sale.

 

Making a Good “Second” Impression

stairsYou’ve heard the term “curb appeal”. It refers to the first impression a buyer gets when he or she first arrives at your home and looks at it from the outside.

That first impression is critical. But there is a “second” impression that is also very important. That’s the impression buyers get when they open your front door and look inside. Make sure that everything looks great from that perspective too — clean, bright, uncluttered and welcoming.

 

Little Things Make a Big Difference

kitThere’s no doubt about it. A completely renovated room – especially a kitchen or bathroom – will really impress home buyers. That room will probably look brand new and very stylish.

But you don’t have to do a full “tear-down-the-walls” type of renovation to upgrade the look of a room. In fact, just a few minor improvements can make a big difference.
For example, upgrading wall plates is an easy and inexpensive way to add a lot more style and personality to a room.

In the kitchen, installing new hardware on existing cabinets can have a dramatic impact. So, look around your house to determine where small improvements could make a big difference.

 

 notable, quotable… quotes!

“You were born to win. But to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win.”

Zig Ziglar

“If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.”

Tony Robbins

“The greater danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.”

Michelangelo

2015 SALES SOLID WITH PRICES HOLDING FIRM – December Sales Up 4%

By Leave a Comment

residential home sales
For More Information Contact Michael Leclerc at 204-792-6453

WINNIPEG –   2015 finished on a strong note.  Following on the heels of a record sales month for November, December sales of 642 were up 4% from last December. They are the third highest for this month, and are only behind the best sales years ever by a very modest amount.

 

While sales and even prices have shown consistent and similar results, listings have not chartered the same path. The numbers of listings entered on the MLS® were 24,603 in 2015, up 7% over 2014, and 41% over the 10-year average of 17,433. With an increase in listings but sales remaining consistent, the market’s inventory has also been rising month to month. This is borne out in having over 5 months of inventory available going into 2016.

Winnipeg Real Estate Information Special Request

An indicator of stiffer competition for selling your home is evident when you see the number of single family home sales selling below list price.  Properties below list accounted for 65% in 2014 but now represent 75% of the market in 2015. In December alone 87% of all single family home sales sold below list price. Of the single family or residential-detached listings which sold in 2015, on average they achieved 98% of the total list price.

 

When 2015 was all said and done a new MLS® dollar volume record was established at $3.5 billion. This resulted in a 2% increase over 2014. Despite sales being higher this December from December 2014, dollar volume actually fell 2.89% when compared to December 2014.

 

It was a tale of different stories when it came to the two primary MLS® property types. Residential-detached performed exceedingly well with sales and dollar volume up 3 and 5% respectively in comparison to 2014. On the other hand, condominiums never recovered from an unexpectedly poor first quarter where sales were off by 20%. By year end this deficit was cut in half but nonetheless represented a 10% decrease compared to 2014.

 

The average sales price for residential-detached was $293, 992, a 2% increase over 2014. The average condominium sales price showed a 1% decrease from $239,171 in 2014 to $236,204 this year.

 

Residential-detached represented nearly 3 out of every 4 properties which sold on MLS® in 2015. Condominium market share was 12.5%. 25% of residential-detached sales in 2015 happened outside Winnipeg in the capital region. The southwest quadrant of Winnipeg was second with 19% of total sales.

 

The most active price range for residential-detached sales in 2015 was $250,000-$299,999 (22% of total sales), followed by the $200,000-$249,999 (17%) and the $300,000-$349,999 (14%).  Average days on the market for residential-detached sales was 33 days, 3 days slower than 2014. The highest-priced residential-detached sale was $2.7 million. The least expensive sale was $8,000.
It pays to know the average price of homes for sale in your neighbourhood, as well as that of homes that have sold, including both over-list and under-list sales. We track all Winnipeg neighbourhoods daily, which allows us to more accurately set list prices on the homes we sell, while also making intelligent offers. If you would like a Free Home Value Appraisal in all areas of Winnipeg, please Contact Us or Call (204) 792-6453. We track the market closely and you can too with Winnipeg Market Tracker.

 

The most active price range for condominiums in 2015 was $150,000-$199,999 (30% of total sales), followed by the $200,000-$249,999 (20%) and the $250,000-$299,999 (18%). Average days on market for condominium sales was 49 days, 9 days off the pace set in 2014. The highest-priced condominium sale was $950,000. The least expensive sale was $57,000.

 

Looking ahead to 2016, Manitoba’s GDP is expected to increase to 2.3% which is an improvement over the expected increase of 2.0% in 2015. In keeping with one of the country’s best GDP’s, Manitoba’s employment is forecast to grow by 1.6% in 2015 and 1% in 2016. This will keep its unemployment rate below 6%. Manitoba had Canada’s second highest population increase of 1% in 2015.

The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team
Royal LePage Top Producers
Winnipeg MB
Phone: (204) 792-6453

The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team January Newsletter

By Leave a Comment

new-yearThe beginning of a New Year is the ideal time to set our sights on achieving the things that really matter to us. My first priority in 2016 is to look after my customers.

I want you to know that I will continue to work hard to earn your confidence and support in the coming year. I will keep you apprised of the Real Estate market in general, and look forward to the opportunity to work directly on your behalf.

 

Finding the Right Professionals
If you’re considering buying a new home, one of your most important tasks is to find the right 1professionals to help you. You’ll need a good REALTOR® and possibly other professionals such as a real estate lawyer, contractor, cleaner, carpet installer, plumber, electrician and a moving company.

How do you find the right people to make your move go smoothly?

First, start with professionals you already know in some way.

You may already know someone – a contractor, for example – that you like and trust. If so, then it makes sense to talk to him or her about your plans.

Also, consider those professionals who have taken the time to reach out to you by way of a visit, phone call or helpful newsletters (like this one). They’re demonstrating their interest in getting to know you and being of service. It makes sense to give them a call.

Another tactic is to ask for recommendations. Ask friends, neighbours, and even other professionals if they can recommend a good company to help you. Chances are, they can.

You’ll find that most professionals, such as REALTORS®, have a network of trusted people and companies they recommend. A good REALTOR® can probably give you all kinds of real estate related referrals.

If you need a recommendation, please call today.

 

Winnipeg Real Estate Information Special Request

The Emotional Side of Selling

Let’s face it. Selling your home is as much an emotional decision as it is a practical one.2

Sure, in some ways, a property is a “product”. You want to sell that product quickly and for the best price, so you can buy your next dream home.

A home, however, is also a place filled with memories and emotional attachments. You’ll think of the rec room where the kids’ birthday parties were held; the dining room where you had countless family dinners; and the backyard deck where many afternoons were spent enjoying the sunshine.

That’s why managing the emotional side of selling your home is so important. Here are some tips:

  • Have your kids draw pictures of the fun they’ll have in their new home.
  • Remind your kids that they’ll be able to stay in touch with their old friends, while making new ones.
  • Visit neighbourhoods where you’d like to find your next home. Walk around. Get a sense of what it’s going to be like to live there.
  • Consider taking a keepsake with you from your old home to help ease the transition.

Want more ideas for making your next move go smoothly? Call today.

It pays to know the average price of homes for sale in your neighbourhood, as well as that of homes that have sold, including both over-list and under-list sales. We track all Winnipeg neighbourhoods daily, which allow us to be more accurate, set list prices on the homes we sell, while also making intelligent offers. If you would like a Free Home Value Appraisal  of your current home in Winnipeg or surrounding area  , please Contact Us or Call (204) 792-6453. We track the market closely and you can too with Winnipeg Market Tracker.

What To Do When Closing Dates Don’t Match

If you want to sell your current property and purchase your next dream home, you might be concerned that the closing dates need to be on the same day.3

You might be worried about losing a property if the closing dates overlap, or being put out on the street if the dates are far apart!

For the most part, these concerns are unfounded. Thousands of properties change hands every day and usually everything works out just fine. In fact, it’s amazing how often closing dates actually do match!

But what happens if the closing date of the home you want to buy is days or weeks earlier than the closing date of your own property?

Most lenders anticipate this situation and offer something called “Bridge Financing.” This is a special loan that allows you to purchase the property with the earlier closing date. When your current property closes, the bridge financing ends and your new mortgage – if you need one – begins on the new home.

Alternatively, if the home you want has a later closing date, your REALTOR® can help you explore options, such as finding a short-term rental.

Track the Winnipeg Real Estate Market!! Free Automated Email Service allows you to track the MLS market in real time. Follow the values in any neighborhood in Winnipeg. Find out what your neighbor’s house down the street sold for. Follow Winnipeg MLS listings in real time. Visit Winnipeg Market Tracker!

 
This information is courtesy of:
The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team
Royal LePage Top Producers
Winnipeg MB
Phone: (204) 792-6453

The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team December Newsletter

By Leave a Comment

For More Information call 204-792-6453 or Click on the Image to Contact Michael Leclerc.
For More Information call 204-792-6453 or Click on the Image to Contact Michael Leclerc.

 

1215Article1Does the Property Meet the “Lifestyle Test”

Lifestyle is a very important criterion when shopping for a new home. After all, a home and its surrounding neighbourhood are the places where much of your lifestyle is going to be experienced.

So when considering a new home, think about the lifestyle to which the property is going to lend itself. Ask yourself:

  • How much entertaining do we do?
  • How important is it to have good schools located nearby?
  • How long will the commute to work be?
  • How big of a backyard do we require?
  • Do we need a rec room?
  • How easy will it be to get to golfing, dance lessons, baseball practices, movies and other activities my family and I enjoy?
  • How important is it to be in a quiet area?
  • Do we want a local park nearby for jogging, playing with the kids, and walking the dog?

Ideally, you’ll create your own list of questions to ask yourself when considering a particular home.

Winnipeg Real Estate Information Special Request

1215Article2

Surprising Secrets of Successful Home Staging

“Staging” is about setting up and decorating each room of your home so that it looks as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Studies show that a property is more likely to sell quickly and for a better price if it is effectively staged.

Even if you haven’t heard of staging before, you probably already know the basics, such as eliminating clutter and making sure everything is clean and “guest ready.”

However, there are some home staging “secrets” by staging professionals that you may not know. Here are a few examples:

Increase horizontal surface space. Make sure desks, countertops, coffee tables, end tables, etc. are as free of items as possible. Give the impression that there’s lots of room available on horizontal surfaces.

Flowers. Fresh flowers or flowering plants placed in a couple of rooms, such as the kitchen and living room, can have a dramatic impact on how inviting that room looks. Just don’t overdo it.

Don’t be daring when you paint. You may love the idea of a bright yellow and green combination in the family room, but not everyone will share your daring sense of style. If you paint, stick to neutral colours.

Less is more. Be brutally honest about the amount of furniture you have in each room – including wall hangings. Is there a desk, side table or other piece you can put away in storage? Think about ways to make each room more spacious. Space is king!

Ultimately, the best staging advice is to use your common sense. Put yourself in the shoes of a potential buyer as you walk through your home. Ask yourself, “What changes will make this room even more attractive?”

 

It pays to know the average price of homes for sale in your neighbourhood, as well as that of homes that have sold, including both over-list and under-list sales. We track all Winnipeg neighbourhoods daily, which allow us to be more accurate, set list prices on the homes we sell, while also making intelligent offers. If you would like a Free Home Value Appraisal  of your current home in Winnipeg or surrounding area  , please Contact Us or Call (204) 792-6453. We track the market closely and you can too with Winnipeg Market Tracker.

 

1215Article3

Make Buying a Home Smooth Sailing

In the nautical world of pleasure boating, there is a specific process to follow to ensure a fun day on the water. Skip one of those steps and you risk having a miserable experience.

The same holds true when buying a new home. There is a process to follow to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are the basics.

Find a good REALTOR®. Preferably someone who knows the area.

Determine what you can afford. Get a pre-approved mortgage.

Make a wish list. What kind of home or neighbourhood are you looking for? View the right properties. Pick those that closely match the criteria on your wish list.

Make an offer. Your REALTOR® can help you make an offer that gets you the home you want at the right price.

Get a home inspection. This is a must.

Get the paperwork done. Your REALTOR®, lawyer and lender will typically handle all the transaction paperwork for you.

Prepare for the move. Find a good mover. Don’t forget to arrange for telephone, internet, change of address and other details.

Track the Winnipeg Real Estate Market!! Free Automated Email Service allows you to track the MLS market in real time. Follow the values in any neighborhood in Winnipeg. Find out what your neighbor’s house down the street sold for. Follow Winnipeg MLS listings in real time. Visit Winnipeg Market Tracker!

 
This information is courtesy of:
The Michael Leclerc Home Selling Team
Royal LePage Top Producers
Winnipeg MB
Phone: (204) 792-6453