Making sense of a crazy market

Making sense of a crazy market

Unless you're a real estate expert, you probably look at the market and think
things are pretty confusing. Even a bit crazy! You hear news about “bubbles
bursting”, “higher or lower home sales in a particular month”, “new home
starts” that are up or down, and on and on it goes.
It’s a lot of news and a lot of jargon.

If you're thinking of selling your home within the next year or two, you will want to understand what's happening in the market so you can make the right decisions and get a clear sense of what to expect. So, how do you make sense of it all?

That's where we can help!

Even if you don't have any definite plans to move in the near future, we can help you understand what homes in a particular neighbourhood are selling for, and what you can expect to get should you decide to list your property.

Getting to know us also means you’ll have a trusted expert to
talk to from time to time, when you have real estate-related questions.

You’ll have someone you can think of as "Your Friends in Real Estate".

Plus, when the time comes to sell your home, you won't have to deal with
a stranger. Instead, you'll be able to work with us who you know
well -- and who knows YOU. Overall, that will make the buying and selling
process go more smoothly and more successfully.

Looking for a good Realtor who wants to get to know you? Call us today!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
Office: 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

A quick lesson in wood floors

A quick lesson in wood floors

Thinking about installing wood floors? The first decision you need to make
involves the type. According to the National Wood Flooring Association,
there are four types:

• Unfinished. This type requires you or your installer to sand and
apply a finish. If you want a specific colour or style, or you're trying to
match existing flooring, this might be the best option for you.

• Factory finished. As the name suggests, this is flooring that has its finish applied in the factory. Although it is more expensive, factory
finished flooring can be installed faster and can be walked upon
immediately.

• Solid. This is flooring that is made from a solid piece of wood, top to
bottom. The advantage is that it can be sanded and refinished many
times over the years, or even decades.

• Engineered. This is flooring that is made of thin layers of wood
pressed together. It can be engineered to be very durable and
expand and contract less than solid flooring.

The type you choose depends on your needs. Talk to your dealer or
contractor about your specific application.

As always, if we can be of any assistance, call us anytime!


Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Paint to Sell: Painting Tips to Ensure a Quick Home Sale

Paint to Sell: Painting Tips to Ensure a Quick Home Sale

No matter how much you rearrange or decorate a room, nothing affects appearance like a fresh coat of paint. When you enter a house, your eye may be drawn to little decorative touches, but all the staging in the world will fall flat if your paint is drab or dirty. Considering that a gallon of paint is only about $30, it's also an inexpensive way to give your home a makeover.

Choosing Colours to Appeal to Home Buyers

Using colours that make the buyer feel "at home" will help you sell your home more quickly. You want them to look at each room and be able to literally see themselves and their belongings fitting inside your walls. Inspire a feeling of peace and relaxation, and part of the sale is already done!
Neutrals and soft colours create a soothing, calm atmosphere. Home buyers can more easily visualize the paint colours they want when other colours aren't bombarding them at every glance.
Avoid bold, vibrant or dark colours. Stay away from trendy colours no matter how good they look to you.
Keep in mind colour psychology. Not only do certain colours calm you, but the shade can also affect the room itself. Light colours make a space appear larger. Dark colours, on the other hand, make the room feel smaller. Of course, sometimes a darker colour is good if you want a certain effect. A cozy den with a darker colour and a bright, cheery kitchen with a lighter colour may work best to highlight each room's appeal.
Keep the colour variations to a minimum to lend a sense of continuity to the house. If every room is a different colour, it can prove overwhelming. It's much better to pick two or three colours to use throughout the house.

Painting Tips

Take the time to paint properly. Mask off areas that will be left unpainted. Throw down floor and furniture coverings to ensure you don't create damage during the process. Most importantly, prep the wall properly.
You may wish to spread a primer first to block bold colours. Sanding the walls slightly or washing with a solution of trisodium phosphate are other options. Both sanding and washing with TSP will remove dirt, oils and other contaminants that prevent the color from adhering well and looking good.
While you paint, take time and care to cut in the corners and avoid drips. Aim for the best paint job of your life – it will be worth it when the buyers sign on the dotted line!
If you can't afford to repaint your entire house, concentrate on a few select areas. The first room the buyer enters is the place to start – remember, first impressions count! Consider painting cupboards, trim and doors along with key rooms. Let your instincts guide you. Look around at other homes for ideas.

With a minimum investment, a little time and elbow grease, it shouldn't take long for you to have your home ready for its next owner.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

When is it time to talk to a Realtor?

When is it time to talk to a Realtor?

Many people only see a doctor when they're sick or have some other health
concern. On the other hand, some people visit a doctor regularly for checkups,
to ask questions and get advice, and to maintain good health.

Which do you think is the better approach? Obviously, the second one!

The same thing is true when it comes to real estate. Even if you have no
current plans to buy or sell a home, there are many reasons to talk to a
Realtor regularly in order to maintain your good "real estate" health.

For example, you can:
• Get an assessment of the current market value of your home, so you
can make an informed decision about whether to stay or move.
• Ask about the state of the local real estate market (which may be
vastly different than what you hear on the news.)

• Find out what homes are currently selling for in the area.
• Learn what's currently available on the market, especially in
neighbourhoods you would like to live in and that are within your
budget.
• Ask for a contractor recommendation.

In fact, it's a good idea to have a chat with your Realtor once or twice a year, even if it's just to say hello.

You want to build a relationship with a good Realtor who understands (and cares about) you and your needs. That way, when it does come time for you to make a move, you're dealing with someone you already know and trust.

Don't have a good Realtor? Call us today!  We are always available for advice
and to answer any questions you may have.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
Office: 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com