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Dennis Philps

Archive for March, 2011

Another Real Estate Boom Coming

Wednesday, March 30th, 2011

It has just been reported by the Petroleum Human resources Council of Canada that, if oil and natural gas prices remain strong, Alberta may experience another boom cycle similar to 2007. With the aging population resulting in inevitable retirements and the increased demand for skilled workers, there could be a severe labor shortage on the horizon. Predictions are that 130,000 new workers will be needed.

After the massive layoffs and cut-backs following the serious downturn in the oil industry three years ago, there is optimism that the oil industry may be ramping up for some more frenetic activity.

What does this mean for the Edmonton Real Estate market? The inventory may get reduced significantly from its recent highs as new workers move in and buy homes. Such a trend will probably force prices upwards as buyers compete for a limited number of available homes. A market again favoring the seller may not be too far off!

Managing the Stresses of Buying and Selling a Home

Thursday, March 17th, 2011

I am happy to include a guest article by Stanley Popovich. I know you will profit from his advice!

Many people deal with the anxieties of buying or selling a home. This process can be confusing to many people. As a result, here is a list of ways that a person can use to manage the anxiety of purchasing or selling a home.

The first step is to determine your goals in purchasing or selling a home. Determine what you want to accomplish. It will save you a lot of time and money in the long run if you know what you are looking for. Sit down and think about the overall goal of what you are looking for and convey this to your real estate agent. Some people like to write down their goals on a piece of paper so they have something to go back to when they get stressed.

Educate yourself on the steps of purchasing or buying a home. Go to your local bookstore and find some books that will explain the process of buying or selling a home. There are many books available that can inform you of the process and will help reduce the anxiety of the situation. Most importantly, you will be able to make smarter choices that will save you time and money.

Find a reputable real estate agent that can help you accomplish your goals. Ask some of your friends on who they recommend and get in touch with them. Referrals from people you know are a great way in finding a good real estate agent.

Get your finances organized. Make sure you have an idea on what you can afford and also make sure that your credit is good. The financial aspect of buying or selling a home does not have to be scary if you have a sound business plan and a realistic budget. Some people may buy a home that they can’t afford and this can cause problems down the road. Determine what you can afford and develop a budget where you will be able to keep up with your bills.

In addition to using the services of a good real estate agent, try to get a friend who is more experienced to help you. Chances are good that you know someone who has purchased or sold a home. You could ask them for their assistance and ask them questions on what to do and what not do. Having a friend who can assist you along the way can really help reduce the anxiety of the process.

Read the fine print on everything before signing and do not assume anything. Ask questions if you are uncertain on some aspects of buying or selling a home. A good real estate agent will not mind if you ask questions, however you should do your part and try to educate yourself on the entire process.

There will be times when everything happens all at once. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the current situation. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Once you calm down, you will better able to make the right decisions.

Purchasing or selling a home does not have to be a bigger deal than it has to if you take the proper steps. There is help out there if you get stuck or confused. The most important thing is to do your homework. Determine your goals, educate yourself on the steps to reach your goals, ask questions, and take it one step at a time. If you follow this advice you will be better able to reduce the stresses of purchasing or selling a home.
You can read more of Stan’s work at http://www.managingfear.com.

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