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        <title>Edmonton Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/2014-02/</link>
        <description>Edmonton Real Estate - Information, Advice, and opinions on the Edmonton Real Estate Market. Contact the Proctor Team today for more information about the Edmonton Real Estate Market. 780-438-2500</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/5-signs-a-neighbourhood-is-about-to-become-gentrified.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/5-signs-a-neighbourhood-is-about-to-become-gentrified.html</link>
        <author>hello@proctorteam.com (Chris Proctor)</author>
        <title>How To Find The Best Neighbourhoods: 5 Signs of Gentrification</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Is your neighbourhood experiencing gentrification? What are some of the tell-tale signs of gentrification to look for?


Knowing the answer to this question can either save you lots of money or make you even more if you're in the market for a home. Buy low and sell high didn't become the most repeated saying in the investment world for no reason - that's how you get a real return on your investment and, in this case, potentially wind up in the hottest up and coming neighbourhoods before they become too expensive.


It's not always easy to tell when an area is about to explode in value but there are definitely some long term indications that you can look for. Whether you are thinking about selling your home or buying one to build equity, here are some of the signs to look for in a gentrifying neighbourhood.


1. Re-Development Is Picking Up


This is the first major sign that an area has hope for gentrification. Re-development comes in many shapes and sizes but here are some of the most common:




Expanding transit services to a new area or improving service in an older area (a great example of this is the proposed re-development of the Stadium LRT station)


More city money is being allocated to infrastructure


More playgrounds and schools popping up




2. Condos Are Being Built


This falls under development and re-development but is worth mentioning on its own. Springing up condos in previously rougher areas is a great way to give reasonable prices on new units and, over time, it brings in literally thousands of people that can single handedly re-shape the economic landscape of the neighbourhood. When you see that old Coffee Time getting torn down and getting turned into a brand new condo development, that's a clear-cut sign of gentrification.


3. Young People Are Flocking


Although this one might not be as easy to pick up on at first, young people tend to flock where the prices are cheap. This is good because they bring a unique vibe to a neighbourhood and occasionally have a way of turning rundown neighbourhoods in to the latest trendy area. It might sound stereotypical but there is a lot of data to support this.


4. Restaurants Are Evolving


Suddenly all those great hole-in-the-wall restaurants are turning into chic cafés and classier dining spots. It's always a sign when that once trendy (yet virtually unknown) spot all of a sudden starts charging twice the price and serving half the portions. This might seem almost disappointing at first but it's a sure sign of gentrification when it begins happening more often. 


5. Shopping Is Getting Better


How good is the shopping in the area? Do you see more dollar stores and lower end grocery stores or are they starting to build one of those nice, newer grocery stores that have a Whole Foods vibe? Trust that the big businesses in the area have done their homework and have likely invested lots of money to figure out the economic landscape. If they are spending their money to build a multi-million dollar business catering to a slightly higher-scale clientele than previously seen, there is likely some research behind it.


Another great example is the type of shopping that is available. Do you have lower-end retail stores in the area or are there great sources of shopping in close proximity? People love to shop but hate to travel to get there. The closer you are to great shopping centers that are popping up, the better your future equity is going to look.


Is Your Neighbourhood Gentrifying?


Take a look at these signs of gentrification and compare them to your neighbourhood. Keep in mind that this doesn’t guarantee your area is going to skyrocket in value but they are some of the more common signs that you can spot ahead. If you are observant and can keep an eye out for these signs, it’s very likely that you’ll spot a diamond in the rough before prices get too high to buy.   Are you wondering about Edmonton areas that are on the rise? Check out these my pick for the best Edmonton neighbourhoods for 2014 that I have my eye on.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2014 13:55:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/5-home-renovations-that-increase-the-value-of-your-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/5-home-renovations-that-increase-the-value-of-your-home.html</link>
        <author>hello@proctorteam.com (Chris Proctor)</author>
        <title>5 Home Renovations That Increase The Value of Your Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Whether you are selling your first home or looking to increase the value of an investment property, most homeowners are curious about renovations that increase value to your home. The fact is, not all renovations are created equal, nor do they all give you the ROI you are likely looking for when sinking extra cash into your property.


In my experience, these are a few of the best renovations that increase value on your home and are sure to impress prospective buyers when they come to check it out


5 Home Renovations That Increase Value



1. A Fresh Coat of Paint


Nothing freshens up a home like a fresh coat of paint Just make sure you don’t go too wild, stick to neutral colours.


2. Finish The Basement


If you have an incomplete basement, now may be the time to finish it. Extra floor space not only increases appeal to buyers, it will increase the total market value.


3. Curb Appeal


Looks matter and the way your home appears from the curb is a crucial first impression.




Landscaping upgrades can be inexpensive and very effective


Consider adding a paved walkway


Freshen up exterior paint




4. Bathroom Renovations


Although it’s not necessary to go all out, bathrooms always play a big role in the final decision for homebuyers.




His &amp; hers sinks in the master bedroom


Update the sink &amp; faucet to something better than builder standards


Consider adding an additional bathroom, especially if you only have one




5. Renovate The Kitchen


There is something about a beautiful kitchen that is simply irresistible to buyers. Along with bathroom renovations, updating the kitchen has consistently proven to be a reliable way to increase the value of your home over the years - some stating that it will fetch up to 100 ROI when you sell your home. In my experience, this seems to be the case but the other edge it gives you is desirability. People spend a lot of time in their kitchens and prospective homebuyers always seem to remember the homes with the nicest kitchens


Questions?


Are you thinking about selling your home but you're not sure about how to maximize your return on investment? Feel free to reach out to me using the contact info below. 


Do you have an experience with renovations that increase value to your home? Leave a message in the comments We would love to hear from you. 


Chris &amp; Patti Proctor: Realty Executive - Devonshire Realty 11058 51 AV, Edmonton, AB T6H 0L4Phone: 780-438-2500 Cell: (780) 709-0811 Fax: 780-435-0100
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 19 Feb 2014 08:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/edmonton-real-estate-market-update-for-january-2014.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/edmonton-real-estate-market-update-for-january-2014.html</link>
        <author>hello@proctorteam.com (Chris Proctor)</author>
        <title>Edmonton Real Estate Market Update For January 2014</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Not too much is out of the ordinary for the Edmonton real estate market update for January 2014. With a 10 increase in sales from the previous month, it seems that we are breaking the post-Christmas sales slump tradition.


Price stability and more property available for sale this month has resulted in a more balanced market with buyers and sellers being given more time to consider all of their options for housing needs. The average days on market dropped nearly two weeks to 61 days (down from 73), which is even more impressive when you consider the fact that there have already been four property sales over $1 million this year already.  


Check out some of the highlights from the Edmonton real estate stats for January 2014 in the infographic below.



Edmonton Real Estate Market Highlights


Low unemployment is a great sign of a strong economy and we are seeing more consumer confidence when looking towards their financial future. These are among a few of the indicators that suggest the Edmonton real estate market is looking stable giving the confidence to those looking to make the jump to a first-time buyer or an upgrade purchase.


Some other highlights from the January 2014 Edmonton Real Estate stats:




Sales rose 10 from last month


Condominium average selling price rose 6.70 from last year


Average selling price of single family homes is up 4.60 from last year


Total MLS system sales are up 14.70 this month




See the full market report for the Edmonton Real Estate market for January 2014 now.


Edmonton’s Luxury Housing Market Up 81 Since 2009


Despite slight declines this month, Edmonton’s luxury housing market is seeing a boom right now with an increase of 81 in sales since 2009. The consistent increase over the past five years would suggest it’s a bit more than a passing fad.


Low interest rates, equity gains in both the Canadian and US housing markets and overall improvement of economic conditions have all contributed to the rise. When compared with other popular major Canadian cities, the entry point for the luxury market in Edmonton is significantly lower ($750,000) than places like Vancouver where $4.89 million will famously get you 3300 square foot home that is ready to be torn down.


Questions?


Do you have any questions about buying a house inside the Edmonton real estate market? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 12 Feb 2014 09:01:00 -0700</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/edmonton-events-for-february-2014-festivals-monster-trucks-more.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.proctorteam.com/blog/edmonton-events-for-february-2014-festivals-monster-trucks-more.html</link>
        <author>hello@proctorteam.com (Chris Proctor)</author>
        <title>Edmonton Events For February 2014: Festivals, Monster Trucks &amp; More</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Although the flow of big concerts has slowed down compared to January, there is a great selection of unique and entertaining Edmonton events in February. Whether you enjoy theatre, comedy or a great outdoor event, there is something for everyone this month.


Even though it’s the shortest month of the year, there is no shortage of things to do with exciting Edmonton events like the classic Silver Skate Festival, Monster Jam at Rexall Place for the monster truck lovers and some excellent musical talent including JUNO-nominated act Madison Violet on February 7 at St. Basil’s Cultural Club.


Edmonton Events For February 2014


Bowerbird: Life as Art


February 1-April 27, 2014


Location: Art Gallery of Alberta


Website


Celebrated Edmonton artist Lyndal Osborne presents a solo show presenting a collection of this incredible sculptor’s 40-year career. The exhibition debuts February 1st and goes until April 27, 2014.


Die Fledermaus by The Edmonton Opera


February 6, 2014


Location: Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium


Website


According to the Edmonton Journal’s Mark Morris, Die Fledermaus is a romantic comedy from the praised Edmonton Opera that promises “an exuberant escape” from the winter blues. You better hurry though…the last showing is on February 6. 


Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (Beer Event)


February 8, 2014


Location: Co-op Wine &amp; Spirits


Website


This event was made for fans of dark beer. Have a true beer aficionado guide you through a flight of top-notch dark brews to suit this cold Edmonton weather. If you’re a fan of lighter beers, don’t be afraid of the dark and join in for this event to see what dark beer is all about.


Maple Leaf Monster Jam Tour


February 8-9, 2014


Location: Rexall Place


Website


Monster Jam is a supercharged thriller with some of the biggest monster trucks and their fearless drivers creating absolute chaos inside Rexall Place. Don’t miss your chance to see the famous Grave Digger and El Toro Loco trucks tear their way through the stadium.


Clybourne Park (Award Winning Stage Production)


Until February 16, 2014


Location: Citadel Theatre


Website


Liz Nichols from the Edmonton Journal called the show, “a stingingly smart production”. Rave reviews are across the board for this Pulitzer Prize-winning play, only at the Citadel Theatre until February 14.


Moonlight Skiing on Valentine’s Day


February 14, 2014


Location: Strathcona County


Website


Do something different this Valentine’s Day and explore the trails of Strathcona County at midnight for a romantic ski tour. It’s a lot more impressive than just flowers and a box of chocolates


Silver Skate Festival


February 14-February 23, 2014


Location: Hawrelak Park


Website


This classic winter festival is one of the oldest Edmonton events that combines sports, culture, art and recreation. As always, this event is free and all-ages with live performances, skating events, live sports demonstrations and snow and fire sculptures.


Edmonton Events: Concert Listings For February 2014




February 6 - Matt Anderson @ Winspear Centre


February 7 - Madison Violet @ St. Basil’s Cultural Club


February 8 - Blackie &amp; The Rodeo Kings @ Festival Place


February 12 - Benjamin Butterfield @ Muttart Hall (Alberta College)


February 14 - Obie Trice @ Union Hall


February 19 - Dean Brody @ Shaw Conference Centre


February 21 - Monkeyjunk @ Festival Place


February 21 - Jeremy Fisher @ St. Basil’s Cultural Club




Are you attending any Edmonton events this month that we missed? Let us know in the comment section below. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 05 Feb 2014 12:21:00 -0700</pubDate>
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