Vancouver Real Estate board overall

 
Single family houses sales for 2011 totalled 14,079 with the average sale price of $1,166,178. This 14% increase in number of sales and a 17% increase in average price over 2010. Townhouse sales for 2011 totalled 5,473 with an average sale price of $563,531. This is a 4% increase in the number of sales and a 3% increase in average price over sales in 2010. Condominiums sales for 2011 totalled 12,885 with the average sale price of $454,146. This 1% decrease in number of sales and a 5% increase in average price over sales in 2010.

Total sales of all types in 2011 was 32,437  with an average sale price of $781,654. This is a 5% increase in number of sales and a 15% increase in average price over sales in 2010. 

The volume of sales overall remained steady with the very little change over November.

Local Maple Ridge

Single family houses sales for 2011 totalled 984 with the average sale price of $504,312. This a 4% drop in number of sales and almost no change in average price of a single family home over sales in 2010. Townhouse sales for 2011 totalled 407 with an average sale price $309,095. This is a 19% increase in the number of sales and no change in average price compared to sales in 2010. Condominiums sales for 2011 totalled 204 with the average sale price of $198,244. This no change in number of sales and a 10% decrease in price over sales in 2010. Total of all types for 2011 was 1595 sales with an average sale price of $415,352. This is a 6% increase in number of sales and a minimal decrease in average price in 2011 over sales in 2010.

** Note - Our housing market remains stable in regards to volume and we have seen some minor erosion of prices. The market is basically unchanged for the last 24 months. This is possibly due to uncertainty about the HST to GST/PST change and how it will affect sales of new homes. It could also be reflecting global financial uncertainty.

 
For more detail just call 604-466-4549 or email pearceteam@telus.net .

Prime Rate remains stable at 3% with term variable rate mortgages at 2.8% - A $300,000 mortgage at 2.8% for 30 years is $1230 month. Fixed term mortgages are available below 3.5% with some places offering as low as $3.19% for a 5 year fixed.

 
*** Yes! 35 year mortgages are still available - call for details

1. Be Flexible - Aside from a lack of privacy, you'll be dealing with dust, noise, mess and disorganization.  If you expect delays, you won’t be quite so frustrated when they occur.
   
   
2. Time Is Money - Make sure you agree (in writing) on a completion date.  Consider offering a bonus if the work's done before the date and a penalty for every day beyond.
   
   
3. Stay In the Loop - Communication is key so schedule regular progress reports that include details on behind the scenes work such as wiring.  Contractors don't like to be micromanaged but they shouldn't mind keeping you up date throughout the process.
   
   
4. Kidding Around - Be sure to set aside some toys for the kids.  Also, line up some playdates so you're able to escape the construction zone chaos.  Finally, make a list of local outings for fun family getaways.
   
   
5. Plan Ahead - Prepare and freeze meals in bulk for quick and easy dinners.  Also, take this opportunity to donate unwanted items to charity so that your newly renovated home isn't full of  unnecessary clutter.