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News Letter February 2022

News Letter February 2022

Vancouver Real Estate News from The Pearce Team

February 2022

The latest Vancouver real estate market stats are listed for you below. Just reach out if there’s a particular area that you’d like more information on.

Saving up for a down payment can sometimes feel totally overwhelming so this month, there are a few simple budgeting strategies that’ll make saving up much easier.

There are also some local hiking trails that you’ll definitely want to check out along with a delicious appetizer that can be prepared in just a few minutes.

Thanks for checking out this month's newsletter. Please reach out if you ever have any questions about real estate, even if it’s just to find out what the house down the street sold for – it’d be great to hear from you!


Cheers,
The Pearce Team

 
 
 

VANCOUVER REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE

 

Real Estate Locally in Maple Ridge

Sales of detached homes were 51 which is a 39% decrease over January 2021 while average selling price was $1,651,980 which is 40% increase over January 2021. Average selling price year to date is $1,651,980 which is a 40% increase over January 2021. Inventory is 120 which is a decrease of 23% over January 2021. 
 
Sales of townhomes were 25 which is an decrease of 60% over January 2021 while average selling price was $854,967 which is 32% increase over January 2021. Average selling price year to date is $854,967 which is 32% increase over January 2021. Inventory is 33 which is a 42% decrease over January 2021.

Sales of condos / apartments were 45 which is a 4% increase over January 2021, while average selling price was $562,314 which is a 36% increase over January 2021. Average selling price year to date is $562,314 which is a 36% increase over January 2021. Inventory is 40 which is a 54% decrease over January 2021. 

For detailed stats that are specific to your neighbourhood or if you're curious about what a home recently sold for, please don't hesitate to reach out – I'm always happy to help!
 
 
 

MAKING CENTS OF YOUR DOWN PAYMENT

 
House Piggy Bank

Buying a home is exciting but saving up for it can be a challenge.

These days, a dream home can seem like just that – a dream. Owning your own home might seem like a daunting goal but with the right strategies, it’s definitely achievable.

A home is probably the largest single purchase you’ll ever make so it’s important to be aware of your financial circumstances and to have a plan of action.

It’s also important to know exactly how much you’ll need for a downpayment and closing costs so that you’re properly prepared and not caught off guard.

Once you figure out how much you’ll need, open up a savings account specifically for homeownership so you can easily monitor your progress. Here are a few ideas that’ll help you save up for a downpayment:

Consolidate Your Debt
It’s impossible to save money if you carry an unpaid balance on your credit card so consolidate it into a line of credit that offers a lower interest rate.

Government Programs
There are a variety of government programs that are designed to help prospective homebuyers with their downpayment. Just reach out for more details!

Room For Rent
Having a roommate will save you a considerable amount of money each month that can go directly towards your homebuyer savings account.

Cut the Car
It’s extremely expensive to own, operate and maintain a vehicle each month so consider selling your car and using public transit instead.

Making Menus
Planning weekly menus means you’ll be less likely to order take-out or overspend at the grocery store.

Lunch Break
Buying lunch even a few times a week costs thousands of dollars a year so pack a lunch instead and skip the fancy morning lattes.

Get a Book Deal
It’s the little things that add up so instead of buying books, check them out from the library. If they don’t have the book you want, they’ll usually order it for you.

Dream Homes Come True
Put a picture of your dream home in a prominent place to constantly remind you of your goal. Visualization combined with good old-fashioned willpower can help you turn your dreams into reality!

Saving up for a down payment requires discipline and patience. Just don’t get discouraged and remember that every little bit you save will help you eventually achieve your dream!

There are various programs available to assist home buyers with their down payment needs so if you or someone you know requires some help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
 
 
 

RADON GAS TESTING

 

Colorless and odorless, naturally occurring radon gas seeps into homes from underground. Exposure to dangerous levels of radon can be harmful to your family’s health. Here’s what you need to know:

radon testing
  • Radon is the #2 cause of lung cancer after smoking.
  • Radon can cause cancers in pets, too.
  • Illness from radon exposure is preventable if measures are taken to reduce high levels in the home.
  • An estimated 1 in 15 homes in the US and Canada has an elevated level of radon.
  • Any home can have a radon problem – old or new, drafty or snug, with or without a basement.

The only way to know if a home has excessive levels of radon is by testing. Your home Inspector can conduct  radon testing using continuous monitoring technology, then reports on results and recommends steps to reduce excessive radon levels if found.

Keep your family safe and schedule a radon test for your home today.

Need an inspector to check for radon? Give us a call.

 
 
 

VANCOUVER'S BEST HIKING TRAILS

 
Hiking Compass

Beat the winter blahs by getting out and enjoying the great outdoors!

Most people are sticking closer to home this winter, so it’s the perfect time to get out and explore some of the natural gems that our area has to offer.

Hiking is a great way to get exercise, fresh air and a healthy dose of vitamin D, all while connecting with the great outdoors and beating the winter blahs!

Another big advantage of hiking during the winter is that you don’t have to worry about getting eaten alive by mosquitoes :)

With its stunning mountain backdrop and an abundance of outstanding scenic trails, Vancouver has earned the reputation of being one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

For instance, Rice Lake, which sits within the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve in North Vancouver, is an easy 3 km hike on a well-maintained trail. It’s perfect if you have kids as the quiet loop around the lake takes about 1 hour at a leisurely pace.

You can also visit AllTrails as it lists over 50 trails in Vancouver along with reviews and photos from those who’ve previously explored the different areas.

If you’re looking to explore other parts of the province to take in the picture-perfect winter views, this guide lists all of the BC provincial parks. Whether you’re hiking, snowshoeing or skiing, the site is updated with all the latest weather and park conditions.

Whether you’re going hiking on a local trail or heading out further afield, it’s important to be prepared. Waterproof boots and layers will keep you comfortable if the weather changes and don’t forget water and snacks.

Also, always check that the trail is open before you leave and have a look at the conditions as harsh weather can impact the safety of the trail.

Winter can sometimes drag on which is why it’s important to stay physically and mentally active while reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re a walker, hiker or jogger, there’s bound to be an exciting outdoor adventure that will put a smile on your face!
 
 
 

TORTILLA PINWHEELS: THE EASY APP!

 
Tortilla Pinwheels

This delicious yet easy-to-prepare appetizer is sure to impress!

If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious appetizer to serve your friends and family, try this simple recipe for tortilla pinwheels. Here’s all you’ll need:
  • tortilla wraps
  • cream cheese
  • grated cheese
  • red pepper
  • jalapeno pepper
  • sour cream
Spread the cream cheese on the tortilla and then dice the peppers and add them on top before sprinkling on the grated cheese.

All you have to do now is roll up the tortillas and place them in the fridge for a few hours. Once they’re chilled, slice the tortilla rolls 1” apart before serving with sour cream. It’s that easy!

The beauty of this app is that you can prepare it well in advance and then just pull it out of the fridge when you’re ready to serve but if you have a bit of extra time, you can also heat them up in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

You can also be creative with the types of ingredients you add as the recipe is very flexible. Just be sure to make enough as it’s the type of snack that people can’t get enough of!
 
 
 
 
 
 

P.S.

Please let me know if you'd like some assistance in finding your dream home or planning that move. Check us out at www.ThePearceTeam.com.
 We have redesigned the site make hunting for your new home a little easier. You can now search for the SOLD information on the MLS on our website. You can also use the "birds eye " and "street" views to get a better idea of surrounding area and also for amenities you can use the walk score.

If you just curious about what the house down the street sold for then check on our website or just give me a call. I'm always happy to assist.

 
 

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