All Blog Entries by Justin Havre

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Found 161 blog entries published by Justin Havre.

How to get started in real estate investmentGetting started in real estate investment can feel daunting for a newcomer. Not only is there a lot to learn about the practical aspects of investment, but investors also feel pressure to perfect both their instincts and their timing. Before making any major moves, use the following guide to learn the principles behind buying property and how they can be used to an investor's advantage.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

The Human Touch

It's easy to think of Britannia real estate investment as a sheer numbers game. All investors need to do is add up property taxes, maintenance costs, and interest fees before deciding if the property is right for them.

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What You Need to Know About Home Security SystemsHome security systems give homeowners the peace of mind they need to feel safe when they spend time inside or away from their home. There are different types of home security systems. Some are DIY, others are installed, monitored and maintained by private companies. Knowing the difference between these home security systems can help homeowners pick the product that best meets their needs.

Which Homes Need Security Systems?

Home security systems are good for safety as well as theft prevention. Many are connected to smoke detectors and other systems of the home, to alert the homeowner when there is a problem like a leak or a fire on the property. Any home is vulnerable to these disasters, and thus, nearly any home can benefit from a home

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About Buying and Selling Land in CanadaBuying and selling land is different from buying and selling a house. Some of the steps may seem the same from the outside, but the differences are very real. A person who wants to buy or sell land should be aware of those differences so they can be prepared and make strategically smart choices. Here's what most property buyers need to know.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Buying Land

Buying land is different from buying an Aspen Woods home in that it might be more difficult to secure a mortgage. It can also be harder to decide which plot of land is best, since it's difficult to compare one empty lot to another. Here's what home

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Information for Homeowners on Home Safety HazardsOne of the biggest risks of being a homeowner is the safety hazards that can be found in a home. There are a lot of issues that can arise and problems that can come about, even for the most diligent of homeowner. That's because some of the biggest hazards can be things that are basically hidden, and that most people really don't think about. But a savvy homeowner who knows what to look for can spot these kinds of problems and address them the right way to keep themselves, their home, and everyone in it safe. Here's what a homeowner should know.

What Safety Hazards Are Most Dangerous?

Some of the most common and dangerous safety hazards include problems with electrical wiring, mold, and structural issues. These are the kinds of hazards that

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Mold is Natural in Damp Areas but a Home Is Not a Desirable HabitatAlthough mold and mildew are natural micro-organisms and serve the beneficial purpose of speeding the breakdown of decaying matter in the natural world, mold in a South East Calgary home can cause health problems, odour and unsightly stains. Luckily, there are ways to assure that mold does not become a problem at home.

Prevention is key. Once removed, regular cleaning is imperative to prevent circulating mold spores from reattaching to surfaces. The microscopic spores released by mold can cause allergic reactions that range from sneezing and red eyes to serious headaches, congestion and breathing problems. There is evidence that long-term exposure also is related to other medical conditions. Black mold, sometimes known as toxic mold, infestations

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A Guide to Home InsuranceHaving insurance on a home is a good way to protect the investment in it. Because a home is generally the biggest purchase a person will ever make, it is vital that they protect it and keep it safe. While it is not always possible to control what physically happens to the home, it is possible to control how much financial damage a problem with the home causes. Insurance is designed to reduce the financial liability and risk to the homeowner, and by doing that there is a higher chance that homeowner will have security and peace of mind in their home for years to come.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Home insurance

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Selling in a Buyer's Market? Tips For a Successful SaleSelling a home in a buyer's market can lead to decreased profits and a more difficult sale overall. Homeowners who want to sell in a buyer's market must price their home strategically, negotiate thoughtfully and prepare their home for sale before putting it on the market. Understanding what a buyer's market is and knowing how to sell a home in a buyer's market can help homeowners who want to put their home up for sale in unfavorable market conditions. There are some selling tips that can help sell a home in a buyers market.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Price It Right

If a home is priced much higher than homes of comparable

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What to Do When You Find Unpermitted WorkOne of the biggest perks of owning a home is not having to ask permission from a landlord to paint the walls or hammer nails. However, homeowners may take this level of ownership to the extreme, assuming they can complete a variety of home improvement projects around the home, without qualifying the work with an official authority. One estimate puts the percentage of unpermitted work in Canada at a full 70%, so chances are, there's something in your home that isn't officially up to code. Those who discover unpermitted work in their home can take the following steps to fix it.

Check the Permits

Every province and neighborhood has its own opinions about which kinds of jobs need permits—and these opinions can change from year to year. Some local

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A Short Guide to Buying Your First HomeWhether it's a first home or the first home in a few decades, new Canadian home buyer may not know or fully understand the stages of finding and purchasing their own property. Using this short guide can make it easier for everyone to clarify and work through each step to fulfill their dream of homeownership.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Defining the Budget

A home buyer's budget is determined by a variety of different factors, and buyers are often shocked at what they can or cannot afford. No matter how much a buyer is pre-approved for though, they'll need to visit a variety of lenders to get a true idea of their purchasing power. A

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The Pros and Cons of Owning a CondoMost property owners are attracted to condos primarily because they're less expensive than a single-family home. However, there are far more reasons to choose (or not choose) a condo beside price. Whether or not a condo is right for a homeowner depends entirely on the circumstances and the priorities of the future owner, so learn more about what to consider before making the final decision to buy a condo.

Budgets and Locations

Purchasing a condo has the potential to be a very cost-effective solution for those keeping a sharp eye on their budget. Larger condos may offer the same square footage as a single-family home for less, and they give people downsizing from a larger home a chance to remain property owners without an exorbitant mortgage.

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