Okotoks Real Estate - Michelle Gerwing

Monday, April 15, 2013 - New Listing - C3563313

Just added this listing: "Don't miss this great deal: a new house with the heavy yard work and fencing completed! You will want to see this 3-bedroom house that is less than a year old. There are plenty of great features: laundry on second floor, granite, underground sprinkler in the back yard, upgraded underlay and soundproofing in the master bedroom. The kitchen has a wonderful nook area leading to the deck. In addition to the island, there is plenty of counter space and cupboards. The back ... Full Article...

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0600

Wednesday, April 10, 2013 - This week's rates

This week's rates are compliments of Deb Lazareff: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.65% 2 Years 3.29% 2.69% 3 Years 4.05% 2.54% 4 Years 4.39% 2.79% 5 Years 5.24% 2.79% 7 Years 6.35% 3.55% 10 Years 6.75% 3.69% VIRM 3.00% 2.55% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:01:18 -0600

Friday, January 25, 2013 - Sales outside of Calgary

This is an article from the Calgary Herald written by Mario Toneguzzi on 23 Jan, 2013. Although all the areas around Calgary are up, Okotoks is not moving quite as quickly as some. This may be due to our population cap influence. We did increase by almost 12% in sales last year, this is good news for both buyers and sellers. Enjoy the article....... MLS sales growth outside Calgary outpaces city in 2012 Home sales growth in the surrounding towns and cities far outpaced the growth in the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 25 Jan 2013 10:18:04 -0700

Wednesday, January 23, 2013 - Lending rates

Great information from Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Check out her website at: http://deborahlazareff.com/ Bank of Canada Announcement January 2013 Good morning As you know, your variable rate mortgage, line of credit and/or student loans are all based on the Prime Rate and, as promised, here is your personal update from me on the recent Bank of Canada announcement on changes to their Overnight Rate which in most cases impacts your Prime Rate. At 10:00 am EST, Wednesday January ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:23:26 -0700

Friday, December 28, 2012 - Just Sold - C3542028

Just sold this listing: "Best price in town! Check out this trailer. It has one bedroom, a great living area and lots of storage space. The furnace motor has recently been replaced and the fridge is new (April). The lot is fenced and the landscaping is done for you. There is a small workshop with electricity and gas heating, plus a hothouse included. The main area of the trailer has laminate; the addition is carpeted. Pad fees in this complex are only 450 dollars a month."

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Fri, 28 Dec 2012 05:00:00 -0700

Thursday, November 22, 2012 - Lending rates for the week

After a very long hiatus, I am back online. The rates for this week are thanks to Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Thanks for taking such good care of my customers, Deb. 1 Year 3.10% 2.39% 2 Years 3.29% 2.59% 3 Years 4.05% 2.69% 4 Years 4.39% 2.99% 5 Years 5.24% 2.99% 7 Years 6.35% 3.69% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.65% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 22 Nov 2012 08:46:28 -0700

Thursday, October 18, 2012 - Weekly lending rates

This week's rates are from Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.49% 2 Years 3.29% 2.79% 3 Years 4.05% 2.89% 4 Years 4.39% 2.99% 5 Years 5.24% 2.99% 7 Years 6.35% 3.69% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.65% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 18 Oct 2012 09:02:58 -0600

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - Lending rates for the week

This week's rates are thanks to Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.49% 2 Years 3.29% 2.79% 3 Years 4.05% 2.89% 4 Years 4.39% 2.99% 5 Years 5.24% 2.99% 7 Years 6.35% 3.69% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 04 Oct 2012 08:08:04 -0600

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - Lending rates for the week

This week's rates are thanks to Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.49% 2 Years 3.29% 2.79% 3 Years 4.05% 2.89% 4 Years 4.39% 2.99% 5 Years 5.24% 2.99% 7 Years 6.35% 3.69% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 04 Oct 2012 08:08:03 -0600

Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - New Listing - C3542028

Just added this listing: "Best price in town! Check out this trailer. It has one bedroom, a great living area and lots of storage space. The furnace motor has recently been replaced and the fridge is new (April). The lot is fenced and the landscaping is done for you. There is a small workshop with electricity and gas heating, plus a hothouse included. The main area of the trailer has laminate; the addition is carpeted. Pad fees in this complex are only 450 dollars a month."

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Wed, 03 Oct 2012 06:00:00 -0600

Monday, October 1, 2012 - Renovations

Many people ask me if they can expect to recover the money they have invested in renovations. Well....that depends. Some renos will provide you with a total recovery and others will not. Having said that, not doing the reno may cost you the sale of a house or will cause your house to sit on the market for a while. Two great examples of this are outdated kitchen and bathrooms. Although you may not recovery all your money, most people do not want to move into houses where they will need to ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 01 Oct 2012 08:53:37 -0600

Thursday, September 27, 2012 - This week's rates

This week's rates are compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Thanks Deb! Wednesday, September 26, 2012 Current Rates: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.39% 2 Years 3.35% 2.69% 3 Years 4.05% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.24% 2.99% 7 Years 6.35% 3.79% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 27 Sep 2012 08:13:23 -0600

Wednesday, September 12, 2012 - Lending Rates

Here are this week's rate compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Current Rates: TermsThe BankOur Rates 1 Year3.10%2.39% 2 Years3.35%2.69% 3 Years4.05%2.69% 4 Years4.64%3.04% 5 Years5.24%3.09% 7 Years6.35%3.79% 10 Years6.75%3.89% VIRM3.00%2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:12:25 -0600

Friday, September 7, 2012 - This week's rates

Here are this week's lending rates compliments of Deb Larareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.10% 2.39% 2 Years 3.35% 2.69% 3 Years 4.05% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 3.04% 5 Years 5.24% 3.09% 7 Years 6.35% 3.79% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:28:44 -0600

Thursday, September 6, 2012 - Rent or lease

I found this great article on whether to buy or lease a vehicle. It discusses the pros and cons of each, but lays it in a very understandable manner. Perhaps you have been wondering......Check it out and see if it answers your questions. http://www.ledgers.com/newsletters/September2012general.pdf

posted in General at Thu, 06 Sep 2012 13:00:57 -0600

Friday, August 31, 2012 - Recycling

This article was taken from the CTV Calgary website. It was published 22 Aug, 2012 A group in Okotoks is refurbishing items disposed of at a local landfill and reselling them to help out charities in the area. The Foothills Recycling & Salvage Society was formed 16 years ago and started with a handful of volunteers and a tent. The group is recycling usable items and turning them into cash to assist charities in the MD of Foothills. The gently used items are all for sale at very reasonable ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 31 Aug 2012 09:24:32 -0600

Friday, August 31, 2012 - Just Sold - C3533758

Just sold this listing: "A great house in a wonderful location! This 2 storey is conveniently located near schools, playgrounds and shopping. It is wonderfully landscaped, has a porch on the front and a 2-level deck in the back. If you are into firepits, this house has one! The main floor has hardwood. This house has a great open concept. The kitchen has lots of storage space and stainless steel appliances. There is a breakfast bar and an eat-in area. The living room opens off the kitchen and ... Full Article...

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Fri, 31 Aug 2012 06:00:00 -0600

Wednesday, August 22, 2012 - This week's rates

This week's rates compliments of Deb Larareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Thanks Deb! Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.39% 2 Years 3.55% 2.69% 3 Years 3.95% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.44% 2.99% 7 Years 6.16% 3.79% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 22 Aug 2012 08:49:56 -0600

Wednesday, August 15, 2012 - To buy or not to buy

This article is from the Calgary Herald. It was written by Josh Skapin and published 10 August, 2012 To buy or not to buy, that is the question When wading into the waters of home ownership, it’s normal to ask the question: Is this a buyer or seller’s market? We want to know if we’re at an advantage or disadvantage, especially when making a move worth six or seven figures. While housing demand is up from 2011, don’t confuse that with a boom. Stepper Custom Homes general ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:50:57 -0600

Tuesday, August 14, 2012 - Greyhound service to Okotoks

This article is from the Western Wheel and written by Tammy Rollie. It was posted 11 July, 2012 Greyhound discontinuing service to Okotoks Discontinuation of service in some rural communities begins Oct. 1 Greyhound Canada Transporting has announced it will no longer stop in Okotoks, High River, Claresholm and Nanton effective Oct. 1. Foothills passengers wanting to take a Greyhound will now have to travel to Calgary. Other communities affected by the discontinuation of service include ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 14 Aug 2012 11:38:49 -0600

Wednesday, August 8, 2012 - this week's rates

These are the rates for this week compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. I highly recommend her if you are borrowing. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.39% 2 Years 3.55% 2.69% 3 Years 3.95% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.44% 2.99% 7 Years 6.16% 3.69% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 08 Aug 2012 10:39:26 -0600

Tuesday, August 7, 2012 - Holiday home security

This article is taken from the CBC News website and wsposted 6 Aug, 2012. Just good common sense, particularly the bit about social media postings. I know people love to post pictures from their holidays and posts about what they are doing, but it does let people know that you are not home. Albertans reminded to secure homes during vacations Police say taking a few precautions, such as cancelling newspapers and having someone pick up the mail, can save Alberta homeowners a lot of grief while ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 07 Aug 2012 19:25:19 -0600

Friday, July 27, 2012 - New Listing - C3533758

Just added this listing: "A great house in a wonderful location! This 2 storey is conveniently located near schools, playgrounds and shopping. It is wonderfully landscaped, has a porch on the front and a 2-level deck in the back. If you are into firepits, this house has one! The main floor has hardwood. This house has a great open concept. The kitchen has lots of storage space and stainless steel appliances. There is a breakfast bar and an eat-in area. The living room opens off the kitchen and ... Full Article...

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Fri, 27 Jul 2012 06:00:00 -0600

Thursday, July 26, 2012 - New Mortgage Rules info

This information is compliments of Jordan Simundson of Investors Group in Calgary. If you would like to contact her directly, please let me know and I will provide contact details. Changes to mortgage loan insurance rules reflect prudent business practices The Federal Finance Minister recently announced changes to mortgage insurance rules that are intended to continue to strengthen Canada’s housing finance system. We strongly support these new lending guidelines and will be ...

posted in General at Thu, 26 Jul 2012 08:46:28 -0600

Monday, July 23, 2012 - this week's rates

Thanks to Deb Lazareff Of Axiom Mortgage Solutions for this week's rates: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.39% 2 Years 3.55% 2.49% 3 Years 3.95% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.44% 3.09% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Mon, 23 Jul 2012 17:00:00 -0600

Wednesday, July 4, 2012 - Lending rates

This week's rates compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.39% 2 Years 3.55% 2.49% 3 Years 3.95% 2.69% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.44% 3.09% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 04 Jul 2012 10:19:15 -0600

Saturday, June 30, 2012 - Canada's Prayer

Canada’s Prayer by Chris Robertson I’m dreaming of Canada tonight. A country where mountains and hopes touch the sky A country where an ocean of kindness fills all hearts A country where ideas are a forest of wisdom O God, let me wake up in Canada! I’m dreaming of Canada tonight A country where compassion is as tall as a douglas fir A country where understanding is as deep as a great lake A country where confidence grows like grain Oh God, let me wake up in ...

posted in General at Sat, 30 Jun 2012 13:47:46 -0600

Friday, June 22, 2012 - New Mortgage Rules

My friend Deb Lazareff found this great article in the Winnipeg Free Press. Thanks Deb Government Takes Further Action to Strengthen Canada's Housing Market As part of the Government's continuous efforts to strengthen Canada's housing finance system, the Honorable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, today announced further adjustments to the rules for government-backed insured mortgages. The Government is announcing four measures for new government-backed insured mortgages with loan-to-value ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:19:54 -0600

Tuesday, June 19, 2012 - New Fieldhouse

This article is from the Western Wheel, written by Don Patterson and published on 13 June, 2012. Our new field house will be built out of town near the Aldersyde exit off number 2 Highway. It is an exciting venture between the Town of Okotoks and the MD of Foothills. Foothills: Okotoks, MD councils select builder for facility Construction is expected to start on the Foothills-Okotoks Regional Indoor Field House next month after Okotoks and Foothills MD councils selected a design and builder ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 19 Jun 2012 12:46:44 -0600

Tuesday, June 12, 2012 - Another reason to live in Okotoks!

This is an article from the may 30th edition of the Calgary Herald by Jason van Rassel. It is a great article that speaks of what we in Okotoks truly believe: it is a hip and happening place to live! Parents leaving behind big city for family-friendly Okotoks, census shows Quarter of population under 14 An hour before commuting workers fill the roads during their trip home, a rush hour of another kind gets underway in Okotoks. Children 14 years old and younger make up a quarter of the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 12 Jun 2012 08:58:08 -0600

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 - This week's rates

This week's rates thanks to Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Give her a call for more info Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.74% 2 Years 3.55% 2.74% 3 Years 3.95% 2.89% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.44% 3.19% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.75% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 06 Jun 2012 10:32:00 -0600

Thursday, May 31, 2012 - Mortgage Amortization

This information was provided by Jordan Simundson of Investors Group. Let her help you. ..jordan.simundson@investorsgroup.com Match your amortization period with your plan The amortization period a client selects should not only fit their long-term plans, but the resulting mortgage payment should also be affordable on their monthly budget. Longer amortization periods result in lower payments, but increase the total amount of interest paid. A 30 year amortization period may not be the best ... Full Article...

posted in General at Thu, 31 May 2012 10:05:26 -0600

Monday, May 28, 2012 - New branding for Okotoks

This aarticle was printed in the Calgary Herald 16 May, 2012: New tourism branding for Okotoks The Town of Okotoks recently launched its new tourism brand – “Hip, Happening, Historic. Okotoks. Your Weekend Destination.” The town says the new brand reflects “a modern, contemporary and fun place to be while still respecting our historic roots and our significant daytrip visitors.” The town says the new brand was developed to target consumers for retail tourism ...

posted in General at Mon, 28 May 2012 08:37:54 -0600

Tuesday, May 15, 2012 - More retail therapy available in NW Calgary

Hey all you folks in the northwest of Calgary, you will love this news! More shopping coming to your neighbourhood soon. This article is from the Calgary Herald on 14 May 2012 and is by Mario Toneguzzi (yes I do enjoy his articles) Crowfoot retail centres in Calgary sold $66.1 million deal CBRE acted on behalf of Sunstone Realty Advisors in the disposition of the assets to Narland Properties, an established private equity real estate investment company and real estate adviser. The sale was ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 15 May 2012 09:32:38 -0600

Thursday, May 10, 2012 - Just Sold - C3508422

Just sold this listing: "Great home in a location convenient for shopping and access to main thoroughfares. Lots of upgrades from trim to curved staircase to exterior of HardiePlank. You will love the open concept and gleaming hardwood floors. Enjoy the spacious kitchen with a large eat-in area, island; all kitchen appliances are stainless steel. Large windows provide lots of natural lighting. Two bedrooms on the main floor; master has 5-piece ensuite with jet tub and a walk-in closet. Basement ... Full Article...

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Thu, 10 May 2012 06:00:00 -0600

Tuesday, May 8, 2012 - Writing on Stone

Posted from the CBC News website dated 7 May, 2012 Aboriginal pictographs digitally enhanced back to life Digitally enhancing pictures of historic rock paintings a window into life hundreds of years ago Aboriginal elders and Parks Canada archaeologists have just completed a two-year project to photograph and interpret several ancient pictograph sites along the foothills and mountains in Alberta and B.C. Many of the fading ochre paintings are barely recognizable, but thanks to some new camera ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 08 May 2012 14:33:10 -0600

Thursday, April 26, 2012 - This week's rates

Rates are from Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.74% 2 Years 3.55% 2.74% 3 Years 3.95% 2.89% 4 Years 4.64% 3.09% 5 Years 5.44% 3.25% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.75% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:44:50 -0600

Friday, April 13, 2012 - This week's rates

This week's rates are courtesy of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Thanks Deb! Terms The Bank Our Rates1 Year 3.20% 2.74% 2 Years 3.55% 2.74%3 Years 3.95% 2.89% 4 Years 4.64% 3.09%5 Years 5.29% 3.29% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89%10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.75%The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Fri, 13 Apr 2012 10:24:22 -0600

Tuesday, April 10, 2012 - Cimarron

This is an article written by Andrea Cox in the Calgary Herald on 7 April, 2012. Third time proves charm of Cimarron Couple buys third house in area in Okotoks due to closeness to nature, easy commute Located in the thriving town of Okotoks with its quaint small-town ambience, Cimarron offers a different way to live. "The appeal really is that small-town feeling. Everybody knows everybody and it is definitely a slower, gentler lifestyle," says Moez Moledina, general manager at Tristar ...

posted in General at Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:11:02 -0600

Tuesday, April 3, 2012 -

This article is from the CMHC website. There is a plethora of great information for homebuyers, new and old, on the site. Check it out. Needs — Now and in the Future Try to buy a home that meets most of your needs for the next 5 to 10 years, or find a home that can grow and change with your needs. Here are some things to consider. Size How many bedrooms do you need? How many bathrooms do you need? Do you need space for a home office? What kind of parking facilities do you need? ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:07:17 -0600

Wednesday, March 28, 2012 - This week's rates

Compliments of Deb Lazareff, this week's rates are as follows: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.74% 2 Years 3.55% 2.74% 3 Years 3.95% 2.79% 4 Years 4.64% 2.99% 5 Years 5.29% 3.15% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:36:54 -0600

Tuesday, March 27, 2012 - New Court House in Area

This is an article from the Western Wheel by Darlene Casten. It was printed 23 March, 2012 Turner Valley courthouse re-opening Justice: Province spends $850,000 to buy town hall and adjacent land Turner Valley will again have a courthouse, a move that is aimed at easing a space crunch in the Okotoks courthouse. The Turner Valley courthouse was closed in 1996 when the Town bought it for $196,000 and turned it into the municipal centre. Following two years of discussions between Town ...

posted in General at Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:33:24 -0600

Thursday, March 22, 2012 - Foothills EMS

This is an article from the Western Wheel, the Okotoks newspaper, by Tanya Kostiw. It is dated 21 Mar, 2012. Foothills EMS suffers under new system, says insider An Okotoks ambulance sits in the station. An EMS insider says foothills residents suffer under the new system which benefits Calgarians. view all photos (1) Emergency medical services for foothills residents are deteriorating under a system which benefits Calgarians, according to an industry insider. An employee for Alberta Health ... Full Article...

posted in General at Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:20:28 -0600

Wednesday, March 14, 2012 - Spring and Summer Community Guide

This is the link to the spring and summer community guide for Okotoks. There are lots of great things to do.... http://issuu.com/town_of_okotoks/docs/spring-summer-guide/1

posted in General at Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:48:02 -0600

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 - To cap or not to cap?

This is an article from the Calgary Herald from 13 March and it is by Thandi Fletcher. Interesting read.... Okotoks council to seek input before vote on population cap Is bigger really better? Okotoks, the town with a rapidly rising population but a strict cap on growth, remains undecided. In an intense and sometimes heated debate on Monday, town councillors voted to postpone a vote to lift its population cap and instead bid to annex enough land outside the town's existing boundary to ...

posted in General at Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:08:33 -0600

Monday, March 12, 2012 - Great mortgage rate

Deb Lazareff has sent me this rate for the week. If you are going to the bank, you will want to make sure they offer the same benefits. If you would like Deb's contact info, please let me know. Today’s New Rate Update – we are now offering a 2.99% 4 year rate – the program has full benefits, refinance, portability, full pre-payment privileges, & 30 year amortization.

posted in General at Mon, 12 Mar 2012 09:12:00 -0600

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 - Elections again

This article was published in the High River Times a week ago. They're off and running (literally). Candidates getting ready for provincial election By Craig Baird 29 Feb, 2012 The writ hasn’t been dropped yet but as everyone knows the election is coming and the two major candidates in Highwood are preparing themselves for the coming provincial battle. Wildrose leader Danielle Smith and Highwood PC candidate John Barlow were both busy last week getting things ready for the election, ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:02:54 -0700

Monday, March 5, 2012 - To Renovate or not to Renovate, that is the question

This is a great article from CMHC. It is on their website along with a lot of other great information! Assessing the Renovation Project Over the years, we’ve developed a good understanding of how buildings perform. Construction techniques for new homes have changed rapidly. Most of these improved techniques also apply to renovations. If you plan carefully, you can renovate your home to make it look better, work better, last longer and be more comfortable. Before renovating, it’s ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:05:19 -0700

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 - This week's rates

Again, from Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions, here are this week's rates: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.20% 2.74% 2 Years 3.55% 2.74% 3 Years 3.95% 2.84% 4 Years 4.64% 3.04% 5 Years 5.29% 3.19% 7 Years 6.16% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:43:24 -0700

Thursday, February 16, 2012 -

This is an article from the Calgary Herald dated 11 Feb by Mario Toneguzzi entitled "Okotoks reaping benefits from Calgary's growth". What a great place to live!! Okotoks is growing up, as the economic impacts of a fast-growing population continue to take shape. One testament to the town's expansion is the three-storey Westmount Square, a proposed office building offering medical, retail and office space. "If built, it will be the largest office building in Okotoks," said Shane Olson, the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:53:17 -0700

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 - Anticipated upswing the in local market

This article is from the Calgary Herald from 8 February. It is by Mario Toneguzzi and entitled "Burgeoning Calgary population to fuel demand in housing market. New home construction and MLS sales on upswing". A burgeoning population will spark another real estate cycle in Calgary with increased demand fuelling more MLS sales and more new home construction. But industry experts don’t expect the next cycle to mirror the boom of a couple of years ago which experienced a frenzy of activity ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:55:51 -0700

Monday, February 13, 2012 - Lending information

This is from a great mortgage specialist I know. Her information is at the below if you wish to contact her. I thought I would say a quick hello to remind you that rates are at record low but are soon to start increasing. I am seeing fixed rates starting to climb from the 60 year lows and thought you may be interested in seeing what a new mortgage can save you. The savings are often more than people expect. The major banks have started ending their rate war and rates are starting to jump ...

posted in General at Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:32:25 -0700

Monday, February 13, 2012 - New Listing - C3508422

Just added this listing: "Great home in a location convenient for shopping and access to main thoroughfares. Lots of upgrades from trim to curved staircase to exterior of HardiePlank. You will love the open concept and gleaming hardwood floors. Enjoy the spacious kitchen with a large eat-in area, island; all kitchen appliances are stainless steel. Large windows provide lots of natural lighting. Two bedrooms on the main floor; master has 5-piece ensuite with jet tub and a walk-in closet. ...

View Listing Details

posted in Listings at Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:00:00 -0700

Friday, February 3, 2012 - 8.3 million dollar condo sold in Calgary

This article is from the Vancouver Sun dated 25 January and is by one of my favourite real estate column writers from Calgary: Mario Toneguzzi. CALGARY — A condo in The River, a luxury residential development in Calgary, has sold for a record $8.3 million — the most expensive condo sale ever in the city. The 5,260-square-foot condo covers the entire 12th floor of the 15-storey tower in the new project, located at 135 26th Avenue S.W., along the Elbow River. Already, more than ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:06:20 -0700

Wednesday, February 1, 2012 -

This article is taken from the Canadian Press site and was released Jan 28. To see more on Mr Homles' vision, please visit his website. Town says Holmes' homes plan all wet A small town south of Calgary has lost a round in its battle against celebrity builder Mike Holmes' plan for an environmentally-sustainable neighbourhood just outside its boundary. Alberta's Municipal Government Board has rejected an appeal by the town of Okotoks that the Wind Walk project in the municipal district of ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:23:56 -0700

Thursday, January 26, 2012 - Mike Holmes Wind Walk Project update

Finally, some news on the Mike Holmes Wind Walk project compliments of the Okotoks Western Wheel. Wind Walk hearing closed Foothills: Decision to be announced within 30 days Jan 19, 2012 05:23 pm | By Don Patterson | Okotoks Western Wheel The Municipal Government Board has closed a hearing into the dispute between the MD of Foothills and the Town of Okotoks over the proposed Wind Walk development on Jan. 17. The board has 30 days to render a decision. The MD of Foothills will know next ...

posted in General at Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:28:21 -0700

Wednesday, January 25, 2012 - This week's rates

This week's rates are compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. If you have any questions, I have her contact info. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.50% 2.74% 2 Years 3.85% 2.74% 3 Years 4.05% 2.89% 4 Years 4.79% 2.95% 5 Years 5.29% 3.15% 7 Years 6.35% 3.89% 10 Years 6.75% 3.89% VIRM 3.00% 2.90% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:35:07 -0700

Monday, January 23, 2012 - Squeaky Floors

This article is from the MSN Real Estate website. It is written by June Fletcher of the Wall Street Journal. There is good advice in this one. KEEPING SQUEAKY FLOORS FROM SCOTCHING SALES One of the most humbling aspects of selling a home is learning how many of the things that we've learned to live with — or may count among our home's endearing quirks — are truly annoying or alarming to buyers. Squeaky floors fall into that category. The good news: You don't have to rip up your ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:36:17 -0700

Tuesday, January 17, 2012 - Reporting Conditionally Sold

This is an article byl Mario Toneguzzi of the Calgary Herald published on 11 January 2012. It explains the new ruling of not having to publisize that a property is conditionally sold. Calgary home sellers not required to report conditional sales New rules implemented by Calgary Real Estate Board There could be fewer conditionally sold stickers on for sale signs in Calgary’s real estate market this year. Not because of declining sales, though. A new rule change implemented by the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:41:26 -0700

Monday, January 16, 2012 - Okotoks wins international award

This posting is from the Town of Okotoks website. It tells of the international award won by the Town: Energy Globe World Award In November 2011, the Town of Okotoks was awarded the renowned Energy Globe World Award for sustainability for the Drake Landing solar community, which utilizes state-of the art heating technology used to store solar energy underground that is later used to heat homes in the winter. Okotoks also won the “Fire” category. The Energy Globe World Award was ... Full Article...

posted in News at Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:43:09 -0700

Wednesday, January 4, 2012 - Housing Prices on the rise in 2012

This articles was in the Calgary Herald on 31 Dec, 2011 and is written by Marty Hope. Builders have been consistent in their message to consumers: If you've been waiting for house prices to come down, you're waiting in vain. As the industry gets set for the first business day of 2012 on Tuesday, the message is that prices will be going up. For 2011, builders and their tradespeople and suppliers worked out agreements to ensure some semblance of normalcy during what can only be termed an ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:54:14 -0700

Wednesday, December 21, 2011 - News on Mike Holmes development in Okotoks

This article was written by Don Patterson and printed in the Western Wheel on Wed, 21 Dec 2011. A provincial board presiding over a dispute between the MD of Foothills and the Town of Okotoks regarding the Wind Walk development is in the process of completing its decision. However, Jerry Ward, Alberta Municipal Affairs public affairs officer, said there is currently no timeframe for when the Municipal Government Board (MGB) will make a ruling on the development. “They’re drafting up ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:32:31 -0700

Monday, December 19, 2011 - Okotoks news

From the Town of Okotoks website: Municipal Enforcement Services once again did an outstanding job in organizing the annual Charity Check Stop. Approximately $8000 plus 3 trucks loaded with food items were collected during the 2 hour event held Wednesday, December 14th along Milligan Drive. There was a great turn out, with members from the RCMP, Okotoks Fire Department, Foothills Patrol and Victim Services on hand to help out. As well, Santa Claus, Safety Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog all ...

posted in General at Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:51:40 -0700

Friday, December 16, 2011 - Christmas in Germany

Christmas preparations often begin on the eve of December 6th. People often set aside special evenings for baking spiced cakes and cookies, and making gifts and decorations. Little dolls of fruit are traditional Christmas toys. Children leave letters on their windowsills for Christkind, a winged figure dressed in white robes and a golden crown who distributes gifts. Sometimes the letters are decorated with glue and sprinkled with sugar to make them sparkle. Germans make beautiful gingerbread ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:09:59 -0700

Thursday, December 15, 2011 - This week's rates

Here are this week's rates. With all that is happening in Europe, I am wondering what Mr Flaherty will do to the minimum down payment and amortization periods in the new year. These are compliments of Deb Lazareff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions. I have all her contact info if you cannot find her on the web. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.50% 2.74% 2 Years 3.85% 2.69% 3 Years 4.05% 2.89% 4 Years 4.79% 3.09% 5 Years 5.29% 3.29% 7 Years 6.35% 4.49% 10 Years 6.75% 4.39% VIRM 3.00% ...

posted in General at Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:39:24 -0700

Wednesday, December 14, 2011 - Christmas in Egypt

The Coptic Church is an Orthodox Church and in the Coptic Church Christmas is celebrated on the 7th January. Advent is observed for forty days and during this period people are expected to fast eating no meat, poultry or dairy products. Some people only do this during the last week of Advent. On the Eve of Christmas everyone goes to church wearing a completely new outfit. The Christmas service ends at midnight with the ringing of church bells, then people go home to eat a special Christmas ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:21:21 -0700

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 - Real Estate News

The newest news by Mario Toneguzzi posted in his blog at the Calgary Herald. It’s still early in the month but after a week in December the city’s resale housing market is showing signs of some positive momentum. According to the Calgary Real Estate Board, from Dec. 1-7, there have been 200 single-family MLS sales at an average price of $464,459. For the same period in 2010, there were 179 transactions for an average of $432,942. The condo market is slightly up from a year ago. ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:58:30 -0700

Monday, December 12, 2011 - Christmas in France

On Christmas Eve, children leave their shoes by the fireplace to be filled with gifts from Pere Noel. In the morning they also find that sweets, fruit, nuts and small toys have been hung on the tree. In cathedral squares, the story of Christ's birth is re-enacted by both players and puppets. Nearly every French home at Christmastime displays a Nativity scene or crèche, which serves as the focus for the Christmas celebration. The crèche is often peopled with little clay figures called santons ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:18:09 -0700

Friday, December 9, 2011 - Christmas in Bethlehem

In Bethlehem the town where Jesus is said to have been born is the site of the Church of the Nativity, which is ablaze with flags and decorations on every Christmas. On Christmas Eve natives and visitors alike crowd the church's doorways and stand on the roof to watch for the dramatic annual procession. Galloping horsemen and police mounted on Arabian horses lead the parade. They are followed by solitary horseman carrying a cross and sitting astride a coal-black steed, then comes the churchmen ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:41:58 -0700

Wednesday, December 7, 2011 - Christmas in Austria

The feast of St Nicholas marks the beginning of Christmas in Austria. The saint accompanied by the devil asks children for a list of their good and bad deeds. Good children are given sweets, toys and nuts. Gifts that are placed under the tree are opened after dinner on Christmas Eve. Brass instruments play chorale music room church steeples, and carol singers, carrying blazing torches and a manger from house to house, gather on the church steps. Silent Night was first sung in 1818, in the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:33:34 -0700

Wednesday, December 7, 2011 - This week's lending rates

This week's rates compliments of Deb Lazareff at Axiom Mortgage Solutions. Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.50% 2.74% 2 Years 3.85% 2.69% 3 Years 4.05% 2.94% 4 Years 4.79% 3.09% 5 Years 5.29% 3.24% 7 Years 6.35% 4.49% 10 Years 6.75% 4.79% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:27:48 -0700

Tuesday, December 6, 2011 - NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust Announces Calgary Acquisition

This is an article from the 30 Nov found on Digital Journal via the Canada NewsWire. The REIT company are a German company. A number of their holdings are towers in downtown Calgary. NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX: NWH.UN) ("NorthWest" or the "REIT") announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire 82% of 40 Sunpark Plaza SE, a 66,500 square foot medical office condominium property in Calgary. The purchase is expected to close in the fourth ... Full Article...

posted in News at Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:52:11 -0700

Monday, December 5, 2011 - Christmas Traditions in Australia

Christmas in Australia is often very hot. Whereas the northern hemisphere is in the middle of winter, Australians are baking in summer heat. It is not unusual to have Christmas Day well into the mid 30 degrees Celsius, or near 100 degrees Fahrenheit. A traditional meal includes a turkey dinner, with ham, and pork. A flaming Christmas plum pudding is added for dessert. In the Australian gold rushes, Christmas puddings often contained a gold nugget. Today a small favor is baked inside. Whoever ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:47:09 -0700

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 - Calgary Home Prices Most Affordable

This article was printed in the Calgary Herald on 25 Nov. It was written by Mario Toneguzzi. It is good news for this area. i Alberta’s housing market is showing increasing signs of strength, due to impressive employment gains and a strong provincial economy so far this year, and remains the most affordable province in the country, says the latest Housing Trends and Affordability Report released Friday by RBC Economics. “In the third quarter, provincial home resales and housing ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:51:11 -0700

Thursday, November 24, 2011 - What to look for in a Christmas tree

An article by Steve Nix of About.com 1.Research different Christmas tree types and pick the species that fits your situation. 2.Decide where in the house to put the Christmas tree. Avoid spots close to heat sources like TVs, fireplaces, radiators and air ducts. Measure the height you have available to avoid modifying your "too tall" Christmas tree later. Find a holiday tree one foot shorter than your ceiling height. 3.If you are cutting a Christmas tree, you know how fresh the tree is. But ... Full Article...

posted in General at Thu, 24 Nov 2011 13:19:54 -0700

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 - Christmas Safety Tips

Taken from the Reader's Digest website: Holiday Hazard Checklist The holidays should be a magical time for children. Yet each year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 8700 people for injuries, such as falls, cuts and shocks, related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees. Keep the season merry with this list of safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Safer Trees and Decorations •When purchasing an artificial tree, ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:18:30 -0700

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 - US-Styled Outlet Malls in Canada

This is an article from the Toronto Star printed 21 Nov. I used to live very near both these Ontario locations; however, perhaps Calgary will be able to be added to the list of Cookstown and Kanata for US-styled outlet malls. RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust and U.S. mall owner Tanger Outlet Centers Inc. have signed a deal to establish their first location under a joint venture announced earlier this year. RioCan and the North Carolina-based retailer have agreed to buy the Cookstown Outlet ... Full Article...

posted in News at Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:58:45 -0700

Friday, November 18, 2011 - Light Up Okotoks Today

At the Olde Towne Plaza •Live Performances, 5:30pm–9pm •Welcome Ceremonies, 6:45pm •Visit from Santa, 6:50pm •Lighting of Community Christmas Tree, 7pm •Late Night Shopping, until 9pm Along Elizabeth Street •Fire Department Display & BBQ, 5:30pm–8:30pm •Street Vendors, downtown area, 5;30pm–9pm •Royal Purple Bazaar, Elks Hall, 4pm–9pm •Mini Ponies, McBride Career Group, 5:30pm–8:30pm •Live Music, Music Centre ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:17:59 -0700

Thursday, November 17, 2011 - This week's rates

Thanks to Deb Lazaroff of Axiom Mortgage Solutions Inc. Current Rates for week of Nov 16th, 2011 Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.50% 2.75% 2 Years 3.85% 2.99% 3 Years 4.05% 2.94% 4 Years 4.79% 3.09% 5 Years 5.29% 3.24% 7 Years 6.35% 4.49% 10 Years 6.75% 4.79% VIRM 3.00% 2.80% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in General at Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:33:04 -0700

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 - Occupy Calgary news

This article was posted to the CBC News Canada website on 14 Nov. City set to remove some Occupy Calgary tents Occupy Calgary demonstrators have been put on notice: Starting Tuesday, tents found unoccupied will be removed from the site at Olympic Plaza. A public notice announcing the move was posted at the site on Monday, with fines of up to $1,000 possible for offenders. Tents at the Occupy Calgary site at Olympic Park will be removed if found unoccupied on Tuesday, city officials say. ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:50:56 -0700

Monday, November 7, 2011 - This Week's Mortgage Rates

Today's mortage rates: TERM POSTED OUR RATES* 6 Month 4.45% 4.45% 1 Year 3.60% 2.75% 2 Year 3.95% 3.04% 3 Year 4.35% 3.09% 4 Year 5.04% 3.09% 5 Year 5.54% 3.29% 7 Year 6.44% 4.49% 10 Year 6.80% 4.79% Variable Rate 2.85% Prime Rate 3.00% Bench Mark Rate 5.29% Cost per $1000 $4.88

posted in News at Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:49:38 -0700

Monday, November 7, 2011 - This Week's Mortgage Rates

Today's mortage rates: TERM POSTED OUR RATES* 6 Month 4.45% 4.45% 1 Year 3.60% 2.75% 2 Year 3.95% 3.04% 3 Year 4.35% 3.09% 4 Year 5.04% 3.09% 5 Year 5.54% 3.29% 7 Year 6.44% 4.49% 10 Year 6.80% 4.79% Variable Rate 2.85% Prime Rate 3.00% Bench Mark Rate 5.29% Cost per $1000 $4.88

posted in News at Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:49:38 -0700

Friday, November 4, 2011 - LED streetlights in Okotoks

For those who are not aware, Okotoks is in the midst of a LED streetlight assessment that began on September 13, 2011. I have added information regarding the assessment from the Town of Okotoks website. There is an online survey for those interested in responding. It is at http://www.okotoks.ca/default.aspx?cid=1654&lang=1. Take the time to fill it out! FortisAlberta and the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) are implementing this test project as an assessment of the ...

posted in General at Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:35:01 -0600

Wednesday, November 2, 2011 - Preparing your Home for Winter

Winterizing Your Home By Elizabeth Weintraub The fall Equinox is a good time of year to start thinking about preparing your home for winter, because as temperatures begin to dip, your home will require maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape through the winter. Autumn is invariably a prelude to falling winter temperatures, regardless of where you live. It might rain or snow or, as David Letterman says, "Fall is my favorite season in Los Angeles, watching the birds change color and fall from ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:50:32 -0600

Friday, October 28, 2011 - More on Mike Holmes

By now, you have all figured out I am a Mike Holmes fan. This news was announced a few months ago. For those in Calgary, you get it see it done right the first time. Mr Holmes is working on a number of projects in Calgary as part of his Holmes Approved Homes project. The homes at Currie Barracks are just one of them. On June 15, 2011, Mike Holmes announced new Holmes Approved Homes on June 15 at 2:00pm at 39 Beny Sur, Valour Park, Currie Barracks. Holmes Homes, along with Canada Lands ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 28 Oct 2011 09:22:21 -0600

Wednesday, October 26, 2011 - Calgary Condo Market

I found this in the Calgary Herald on Oct 21. The author is Joel Schlesinger. It is quite interesting. If you’re in the market for your first home, and that happens to be a condominium, the timing couldn’t be better. Calgary’s condo market has been a sellers’ bonanza for several years, but over the last year, the tables have turned. “It’s definitely a buyers’ market,” says Jon Angevine, an associate broker with Discover Real Estate in ...

posted in News at Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:25:28 -0600

Monday, October 24, 2011 - Baby Boomers and Housing Market

Copied from the Glode and Mail from Mon, 17 Oct 2011. This is a great article written by Rob Carrick. Home-owning baby boomers should consider ‘for-sale’ signs Baby boomers, the housing market is in your hands. Out of a population of 34.6 million, Canada has roughly 10 million people who were born between 1946 and 1965. This massive boomer cohort started turning 65 this year. All those empty nesters will soon have a decision to make. Should they sell now to downsize their ...

posted in News at Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:09:22 -0600

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 - Houses Prices in Alberta for September

Here is an article from the Calgary Herald on 18 Oct, 2011. It is entitled "House Prices, Sales Rise in September" and is written by Mario Toneguzzi. Calgary home prices rose along with sales in September, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association. CREA said Monday that MLS residential sales in Calgary reached 1,789 units in September, up 11 per cent from a year earlier. The average sale price rose by 1.3 per cent to $406,252 for the same period. Sales in Alberta rose by 10 per cent ... Full Article...

posted in News at Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:06:14 -0600

Monday, October 17, 2011 - Weekly Mortgage rates

Rates compliments of Jaclyn Cooper of Mortgage Alliance: TERM POSTED OUR RATES* 6 Month 4.45% 4.45% 1 Year 3.60% 2.75% 2 Year 3.95% 2.49% 3 Year 4.35% 2.79% 4 Year 5.04% 2.89% 5 Year 5.54% 3.29% 7 Year 6.44% 4.49% 10 Year 6.80% 4.79% Variable Rate 2.60% Prime Rate 3.00% BenchMark Rate 5.19% Cost per $1000 $4.88 * Cost per $1000 based on 5yr fixed term rate compounded semi-annually. * Rates may vary provincially and are subject to change without notice OAC.

posted in General at Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:09:49 -0600

Friday, October 14, 2011 - Update on Mike Holmes' project

An update from the Mike Holmes website: Mike Holmes project contested by Alta. town A green homes development helmed by TV personality Mike Holmes is being stalled by the Town of Okotoks. The administration of the Alberta town, located about 45 kilometres south of Calgary, is appealing a decision made by the Municipal District of Foothills to approve plans for the project. Wind Walk, as the project is known, would consist of more than 400 energy efficient houses on a parcel of land south of ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 14 Oct 2011 09:41:26 -0600

Tuesday, October 4, 2011 - Investing in Real Estate

An interesting article about investing in real estate: Getting ahead in real estate requires a long-term view Ride out brief changes to see real returns By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald October 2, 2011 Jessie Donaghy's recent purchase of a condominium in the Sunalta neighbourhood is not only her first home, it's an investment as well. "It's a really nice place. I'm hoping to hold on to it and rent it out or if the market's really doing well one day then use it as a resale property," she ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:18:32 -0600

Monday, October 3, 2011 - Fire Prevention Month

Is your Home Safe? Fire Evacuation Plan Do you have a fire evacuation plan? A plan means that you make sure everyone in your home knows how to get out from each room, in case of a fire. If your home has a second floor, you need a special escape plan to get to the ground. Check to see that windows have not been painted shut. Although doors and windows should always be securely locked, you have to be able to open them in an emergency. Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers must always be ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:03:56 -0600

Friday, September 30, 2011 - Mike Holmes' Wind Community in Okotoks

Okotoks Wind Community information taken from Mike Holmes' website at http://holmeshomes.ca/windwalk.php Overview If we want to live more sustainably, we need to look beyond individual acts of green. it takes a fully-integrated strategy to realize a vital, healthy, sustainable urban environment. It takes a community. Mike Holmes and his crew are taking their passion for building high-performance green homes to the next level—revisioning the urban landscape to create complete, compact ... Full Article...

posted in General at Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:31:18 -0600

Thursday, September 29, 2011 - Sustainable Okotoks

Sustainable Okotoks - The Legacy "Not far from my hometown of Calgary, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, there is a beautiful little town called Okotoks. About 10 years ago, the folks there decided they were going to live within their local environmental means. Today Okotoks can fairly call itself the greenest community in Canada".....Prime Minister Stephen Harper In 1998, Okotoks made a decision about its future, becoming one of the first municipalities in the world to establish ... Full Article...

posted in General at Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:45:11 -0600

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 - Fixed versus Variable

This is an articled entitled "Fixed Versus Variable: Looking at Advantages of Today's Interest Rates" by Kirsten Bartlett that was printed in the Calgary Herald Business Section on 20 September, 2011. It provides great advice to those trying to choose which route to go with their mortgage. "This morning I had a discussion with Michael Piper, one of TD Canada Trust’s lenders, regarding current interest rates and the effect that they are having on Calgary’s market. As many of us ... Full Article...

posted in General at Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:59:02 -0600

Tuesday, September 27, 2011 - South Ridge Emergency Building

For those of you wondering what the construction on Woodhaven Drive, next to KIA is, the note below from the Town of Okotoks website explains it: Construction began in June on the South Ridge Emergency Building at 98 Woodhaven Drive. The structure will be the Town's first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Gold certified building and will house the RCMP, Municipal Enforcement and Fire Services. The three-storey, 30,000 ft² facility is anticipated to take 18 months to complete ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 27 Sep 2011 09:30:16 -0600

Monday, September 26, 2011 - Moving and Packing Tips

This is a great article by Diane Schmidt of About.com providing all kinds of good advice to those planning on packing and moving themselves, or packing for a mover. Having done just a few moves, I could relate to all of this. Although making an inventory of what goes into boxes is tedious, having lost two boxes on a move taught me that it is a good idea. How to Start Packing for Your Move Moving takes time and if you're doing your own packing, which most people will, make sure you give ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:08:51 -0600

Friday, September 23, 2011 - this week's rates

Thanks to Deb Lazareff at Axiom Mortgage Solutions Inc for this week's rates: Terms The Bank Our Rates 1 Year 3.50% 2.64% 2 Years 3.85% 2.99% 3 Years 4.35% 2.89% 4 Years 4.19% 2.99% 5 Years 5.39% 3.39% 7 Years 6.16% 4.49% 10 Years 6.75% 4.79% VIRM 3.00% 2.40% The prime rate is 3.00%

posted in News at Fri, 23 Sep 2011 11:38:08 -0600

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 - Pre-packing/de-cluttering/editing

Buyers want to move into a house and continue working and living without a lot of interruptions or downtime. Your home will sell quickly if you impress them with a house that is move-in ready. IS YOUR HOME FIT TO SELL? Pre-packing / Clutter / Editing Preparing your home for sale is not just about pre-packing, clutter and editing, but this is a big part of it. Your house needs to be neat, clean and orderly. Organizing and pre-packing items that are not regularly used will create a spacious ... Full Article...

posted in General at Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:34:08 -0600

Monday, September 19, 2011 - Your financial responsibilities

Your Financial Responsibility Make Your Mortgage Payments on Time You can make your mortgage payments monthly, biweekly or weekly. But, whichever timetable you’ve chosen, it’s important to always make payments on time. Making late payments is called delinquency. Delinquency may result in late charges and negatively affect your credit rating. Failing to make payments can even lead to very serious consequences, like foreclosure. A good way to prevent late payments is to have the ... Full Article...

posted in General at Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:24:25 -0600