Few feelings compare to the one you get when you find the house of your dreams. It’s the moment when the time you’ve spent pouring over listings and attending home viewings finally starts to pay off. While you’re certainly entitled to celebrate at this stage, remember that you don’t own your ideal property just yet. Now is the time to secure your new home by impressing the seller with a truly irresistible offer.

To start, there are 6 parts to a home-purchasing offer that you should know:

• Price – Depending on the local market conditions and information provided by your Real Estate Professional, the price you offer may be different from the seller’s price.

• Deposit – Your deposit shows good faith and will be applied against the purchase of the home when the sale closes. Your Real Estate Professional can advise you on an appropriate amount.

• Terms – Includes the total price offered and the financing details. You arrange your own financing or ask to assume the seller’s mortgage, especially if it has an attractive interest rate.

• Conditions – These might include “subject to home inspection”, “subject to you obtaining financing”, or “subject to you selling your property”.

• Inclusions & Exclusions – These might include appliances and certain fixtures or decorative items, such as window coverings or mirrors. These items would remain in the house.

• Closing or Possession Date – Generally, the day the title of the property is legally transferred and the transaction of funds finalized

Furthermore, an offer can be “firm”, meaning without conditions, or “conditional” if it is subject to some of the conditions mentioned above. After that, an offer can be accepted, rejected, or met with a counter-offer. The counter-offer may be in reference to the price, closing date, or any number of variables. Offers can go back and forth until both parties have agreed to terms or either side ends the negotiations.  

If you’re planning to put in an offer on a property in the near future, here are a few tips for making sure it stands out…

How to Make a Strong Offer on a Home: 

Get pre-approved

Chances are, you’ll need to obtain financing before you can make your home purchase. We suggest starting the process early on by obtaining a pre-approval letter—and including it in your offer once you find that perfect home. When a lender pre-approves you, they look closely at your financial situation and determine how much financing you’re likely to receive. Knowing that you’ve gone through this process instills sellers with a sense of confidence, which could further encourage them to accept your offer if it’s attractive.

Consider making your highest bid first

During the home-buying process, negotiations can help you lock down the best deal possible. That said, buyers don’t always get the chance to negotiate. If you’ve opted to put in an offer on an in-demand property, you may want to consider making your highest bid first. In our experience, sellers with several lucrative options will often choose the best one right off the bat—and avoid going back-and-forth with buyers. If you find yourself in a potential multiple offer scenario, your agent can help you assess the situation and come up with the right offer strategy.

Be flexible

There’s no doubt that money talks. Having said that, some sellers are just as interested in making a no-muss, no fuss sale as they are in taking home some extra cash. For this reason, upping the convenience factor can make your offer a lot more attractive. If possible, be flexible about your timeline. Whether a seller needs to relocate in a hurry or wants to take their time, your willingness to help make it happen could be one of the keys to having your offer accepted.

Form a connection

It’s one of the most overlooked tools in a home buyer’s toolbox: the offer letter. The truth is, most people would prefer to deal with a buyer who they feel some sort of connection with. Your offer letter is an opportunity to remind sellers of any common ground you might have (whether it’s a love of rescue animals or a favourite hockey team). Even more importantly, it’s a chance to tell them why their house is your dream home—and how you plan to take good care of it. While letters don’t always hold a lot of sway, they can in the right situation. If you choose to write one, be friendly, genuine, and concise.

Remove unnecessary contingencies

Contingencies are events that must occur before a deal can be considered complete. For example, including a financing contingency in your contract will allow you to get out of a home purchase if your mortgage falls through. While these stipulations can protect buyers, sellers often see them as annoying obstacles to a smooth sale. As a result, forgoing them can make your offer far more appealing than it otherwise would be. Just be sure to consult with your agent before going this route—they’ll look at your circumstances and ensure that you’re not exposing yourself to undue risk.

Preparing to buy a home? From starting your search to making a highly-appealing offer, we can help at every step. Get in touch to learn more about the process!

Do you need to sell your home quickly? Many sellers find themselves in a situation where time is of the essence. Maybe you have to relocate for work, or to be closer to family. Perhaps you simply can’t wait to start the next chapter of your life. Whatever your reason for needing to sell your home in a hurry, there are steps you can take to help expedite the process.

If you’re looking to shorten your selling timeline, try our top five tips for a quick and convenient home sale…

1) Target your most likely buyer

Not every home buyer has the same needs and preferences. That’s why it pays to use a targeted approach. Knowing who’s most likely to purchase your home (whether it’s a growing family, a young professional, or a downsizer) allows you to appeal to them directly through your listing and other marketing efforts. Targeting these efforts is important, because serious buyers always have their eyes peeled for newly-listed homes that match their criteria. When yours pops up and it’s a perfect march, they’re bound to get in touch with you—quickly. Put simply, knowing who’s most likely to purchase your home can help you generate more interest, in less time.

2) Make your home shine

One of the best ways to speed up your sale is to ensure that your home appeals to serious buyers—those who are close to the decision-making stage. These are the home hunters who will pour over online listings, set up multiple viewings, and closely compare all of the properties they look at. If you want your property to stand out during the process, it has to be in peak condition. Start with a deep cleaning. Home buyers will examine every nook and cranny, so it pays to be thorough. Next up, work with a stager to ensure that your home looks its best. A professional will know how to use paint, furniture, and decor to create an elegant environment that appeals to the largest pool of buyers possible.

3) Use great photos

Once your home is in tip-top shape, it’s time to show it off. Your listing is the first place most home hunters will see your living space. The majority of those who view it will decide whether or not to set up a viewing based on the accompanying photos. If you want to get more buyers through the door (and potentially find the right one in less time), make sure you use the highest-quality images in your listing and marketing materials. The only way to do that is to work with a professional photographer—someone who knows how to use lighting, angles, and perspective to make your home stand out.

4) Ramp up your curb appeal

When you’re looking to sell your home quickly, you want to do everything you can to get buyers through the door. That means making sure that the outside of your house is just as appealing as the inside. In the warmer months, pay close attention to your landscaping. Ensure that your lawn is healthy and carefully-trimmed during showing periods. Don’t forget about the details. From a fresh welcome mat to seasonal flowers, the little things can make a big difference in the eyes of home buyers!

5) Work with the right agent

First and foremost, partner with a great local agent. The right real estate professional can help you prepare, stage, and market your home to your most likely buyer. They’ll have the neighbourhood expertise, market knowledge, and industry connections to help you make a speedy sale—whatever the steps required. Start by finding a team you can trust. You should feel comfortable asking as many questions as you need to. Remember, even though you want to make a sale quickly, you’re still dealing with your biggest asset!

Ready to sell your home in Vaughan? Get in touch—we’d love to help you make a quick, convenient sale!
Call us at 416-571-2724  or E-mail info@arciteam.com

There are die-hard Torontonians out there who will insist that you have to go to Canada’s largest city to find a great meal. In Vaughan, we know that’s not true. There are so many reasons to love living here, from our gorgeous green spaces to our top-notch transit. But one thing that frequently gets overlooked is our fantastic local restaurants. From upscale Italian to delicious, no-frills Chinese, you’ll find exactly what you’re in the mood for in our fair city.

Whether you’re moving to Vaughan or you just want to check out our food scene, here are five can’t-miss local eateries…

1) Vivo Pizza and Pasta

If you’re in Woodbridge, you have to check out Vivo Pizza and Pasta. This successful Italian chain has several locations across southern Ontario, and it’s easy to see why. The prices are affordable, the environment is relaxed, and (most importantly) the food is fantastic. Though you really can’t go wrong at Vivo, we suggest trying one of the classics—such as a margherita pizza or a plate of fettuccine alfredo. For dessert, the tiramisu is pure perfection. Part of the restaurant’s secret is its use of incredibly fresh ingredients—and trust us when we say, you’ll taste the difference.

2) Avenue Cibi E Vini

If you’re looking for some Italian food that’s a little more upscale, check out Avenue Cibi E Vini. This Kleinberg hotspot is a neighbourhood go-to for a memorable night out. Step inside, and the first thing you’ll notice is the restaurant’s elegant-yet-modern look. Open the wine list, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the selection in front of you. Of course, the food is the main attraction, and you’ll find no shortage of perfectly-prepared dishes here—from meat, fish, and seafood to handmade gnocchi and impeccably-fried eggplant. To find some vino that will pair well with your meal, ask the restaurant’s knowledgeable staff.

3) Ichiki Japanese & Thai

It’s rare for a restaurant to masterfully prepare the cuisine of not one but two cultures. Fortunately for diners in Vaughan, Ichiki does it consistently. The Japanese and Thai dishes at this Woodbridge gem are fresh, colourful, and bursting with flavour. From delicate ramen to savoury pad Thai, you’ll find all of the classics here—along with some highly-inventive options, like sushi pizza. In addition to the food, Ichiki stands out for the ambiance it provides. The exposed brick and ductwork gives the space a modern feel, while the delightfully-mismatched upholstery adds to its coziness. 

4) 9baci

There’s no shortage of phenomenal Italian restaurants in Vaughan, and they’re spread across the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. If you live in Maple (or you find yourself in the area one night), consider 9baci your go-to spot for Italian staples. Located on Keele Street, this stylish eatery serves up a mouth-watering selection of antipasti, along with carefully-crafted pizzas and pastas. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a dinner that will leave you feeling comfortably full, 9baci delivers. Whatever time you decide to go, consider ending off your meal with an espresso!

5) Memphis BBQ & Wicked Wings

If you’re a fan of Southern BBQ, it’s time you discovered your new favourite eatery in Vaughan. From its delicious signature sauces to its stripped-down decor, Memphis BBQ & Wings is all about authenticity. More importantly, it does the classics—including pulled pork, saucy chicken, baked beans, and cornbread—the right way. Located on Islington Avenue, this little smokehouse is easy to miss. That said, you should make a point to stop in. Take a load off inside the restaurant, or grab something from the takeaway counter to enjoy at home. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!

Thinking of making Vaughan home? We know the city inside and out—from its top-notch restaurants to the selection of homes on the market. Get in touch to start a conversation about your needs today!

In the dead of winter, it’s easy to get into a funk. You may not be able to spend time outdoors, and depending on where you live, you might be seeing very little sunshine. If the long, dark days and chilly weather are getting to you and you aren’t able to take a vacation somewhere warm anytime soon, here are a few ways to lift your spirits this season.

If you find the dead foliage depressing, bringing some life into your home may help perk you up this winter. Visit a nursery and buy some vibrant plants or beautiful flowers and place them throughout your home. Certain plants even help purify air and remove toxins from your home.

Buy a lamp that’s made to simulate sunlight. These are proven to help treat Seasonal Affective Disorder, though they’re great for anyone who is feeling dull from a lack of sunshine. Sitting in front of one for 20 to 30 minutes every morning while you eat breakfast or read can help reset your circadian rhythm and give your mood a boost. You can find affordable sunlight lamps on Amazon.

During the winter, it’s so easy to want to just curl up and hibernate. But exercise releases endorphins and reduces stress, and it can be a great way to combat the winter blues. You don’t need an expensive gym membership; clear a little space in an area of your home and stream free workouts from YouTube. There are countless exercise videos of all types and lengths, and it’s a free way to get yourself moving and feeling better. Why not make it a family affair?

​If you’re looking for a fresh start in a new home this year, I’d love to help.​

​Please reach out anytime!

According to Forbes Magazine, only 8% of New Year’s resolutions last. If you want to be part of those who succeed, we have a few tips to help you do just that, and it is surprisingly simpler than you think. In fact, we’re giving you five simple steps to take to make your resolutions a reality this year.

Writing your goals down is the first step in achieving goals. Consider the difference grocery shopping with or without a list makes. Shopping with a list can allow you to plan and prepare, such as searching circulars for in-store deals, clipping coupons, and meal planning without having to run to the store again. Shopping without a list means relying on your memory – both what you want to get and what you already have. The list simplifies things and allows your mind to not be overwhelmed. Writing your goals does the same.

Keep your eyes on the prize by posting your written goals where you can see them. Some people will even post affirmations or reminders on sticky notes wherever they may see them – on the bathroom mirror, on the fridge, in the car – to keep it top of mind. Visualizing your positive outcomes is something everyone from Napoleon Hill to Tony Robbins encourages for making it a reality. Visualize achieving the goal, including how it will feel and look to be obtained.

This acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. Being specific includes the who, what, when, where, and why of the goal. Measurable means quantifying where you are now and where you want to be with methods in place to track progress.

Attainable means that your goals are able to be met in the timeline. It also asks you to consider what it would take to make it possible. For example, do you need a gym membership? Accountability? To cut up your credit cards? Being realistic doesn’t mean setting your goals low, but rather setting them in a way that stretches you while also being possible. Be honest with yourself and ask if you’re willing and able to do the work required to achieve the goal. If so, it is realistic.

Finally, make it timely by giving yourself a deadline – or multiple deadlines if you break down the goal into building blocks. Deadlines create a sense of urgency that pushes us to get it done.

Getting clear about how to achieve the goal will help you break it down into more manageable, forward-moving steps. Look at what is needed to make your goal attainable. Break your goal down as far as you need to (ie. daily tasks, weekly or quarterly objectives) to systematically reach your long-term goal.

There is a lot to be said about gratitude, fun, and celebration. Sometimes we get so driven and focused on outcomes, we forget to celebrate the small stuff. Make it a regular practice to look for fun in your day, express gratitude for the progress you are making, and celebrate each small achievement on your way to your big goals.

Don’t consider it a failure if something doesn’t quite work. Sometimes goals are made but then life happens – something unexpected and out of your control surfaces. Give yourself time, permission, and grace to re-evaluate and adjust.

This year, if buying a new home or selling your house is part of your resolution, contact me. I’m happy to help.

Happy New Year! I hope you had a restful holiday season. Now it’s resolution season; have you created your goals for 2019? Many of us have vowed to start using the gym more often or start saving more money, but it’s also a great time to think about how you want to improve your home this year. Need a little inspiration for a home resolution for 2019? Here’s a checklist of project ideas, ranging from small to large, to get your wheels turning.

If you’re considering buying a new home this year rather than fixing up your current house, please reach out.

Now that a new year has arrived, have you set your 2019 goals? Are they strong enough to keep momentum through the year? This season often has us reflecting on the past 365 days and dreaming about what the next twelve months could contain. With so many people giving up on their resolutions in the first three months, it’s important that our goals have the strength to keep us moving forward.

Studies have shown writing down your goals is the first step in achieving them – after all, keeping your “eye on the prize” is a natural motivator. Keeping your vision clearly in front of you helps it stay top of mind, something everyone from Napoleon Hill to Tony Robbins encourages for making it a reality. Here are three tips to keep your goals progressing through the year:

This acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. Being specific includes the who, what, when, where, and why of the goal. Measurable means quantifying where you are now and where you want to be with methods in place to track progress.

Attainable means that your goals can be met in the timeline. It also asks you to consider what it would take to make it possible. For example, do you need a new credential? More administrative support? More contacts in your database? Being realistic doesn’t mean setting your goals low, but rather setting them in a way that stretches you while also being possible. Be honest with yourself and ask if you are willing and able to do the work required to achieve the goal. If so, it is realistic.

Finally, make it timely by giving yourself a deadline – or multiple deadlines if you break down the goal into building blocks. Deadlines create a sense of urgency that pushes us to get it done.

Getting clear about how to achieve the goal will help you break it down into more manageable, forward-moving steps. Look at what is needed to make your goal attainable. Break your goal down as far as you need to (i.e., daily tasks, weekly or quarterly objectives) to systematically reach your long-term goal.

There is a lot to be said about gratitude, fun, and celebration. Sometimes we get so driven and focused on outcomes that we forget to celebrate the small stuff. Make it a regular practice to look for fun in your day, express gratitude for the progress you are making, and celebrate each small achievement on your way to your big goals.

Don’t consider it a failure if something doesn’t quite work. Sometimes goals are made, but then life happens – something unexpected and out of your control surfaces. Give yourself time, permission, and grace to re-evaluate and adjust.

Need guidance on your 2019 business goals? Let me help. Give me a call and I’d be happy to give some feedback and direction. 416-571-2724 (ARCI)