July 16, 2013

fi rst timeHOME BUYER’S

GUIDE

PUBLISHED BY

Find a

REALTOR®

who WILL WORKFOR YOU!

Step-by-step guide

for purchasing your

new home

How to arrange for

a mortgage & avoid

common mistakes

2 0 1 3 / 2 0 1 4

2 ❖ First-Time Home Buyer's Guide 2013/14

Just tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll do the rest

Kamloops REAL ESTATE

250-374-3331

258 Seymour St. Kamloops, BC. V2C 2E5

BERTIECOLLINS.COM

NEED HELP FINDINGNEED HELP FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME?YOUR DREAM HOME?

[email protected] | [email protected]

• We listen carefully to understand your goals and guide

you through the process of purchasing your new home.

• In-depth knowledge on all facets of home buying & selling.

• Proven track record.

• Local, professional experts.

CONTACT US TODAY!

First-Time Home Buyer's Guide 2013/14 v 3

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME!

While interest rates have crept up ever-so-slightly in the

past few weeks, the posted rates remain as low as we have

ever seen, which means it is an advantageous market for fi rst-

time home buyers.

It's a cliché, but true: A home is the most-expensive

purchase you will ever make and, as such, deserves all your

attention — and more.

This is where Kamloops This Week's First-Time Home

Buyer's Guide comes into play.

Buying that fi rst home is an exhilarating experience, but

one that can be daunting, considering it is a time-consuming

and, at times, complicated process.

From knowing where to look for prospective homes to

fi nding the right realtor to agreeing on a lawyer to ensuring

all paperwork is in place, the process is intricate.

So, sit back, relax and take your time exploring this

publication.

In it, you will fi nd all the information you need as you take

that fi rst step toward home ownership.

Anchoring the information is a comprehensive, 11-step

guide to buying your inaugural home, around which we

have included a plethora of complementary data, such as

questions to ask, mistakes to avoid and a moving timeline.

Happy reading — now, turn the page and take the fi rst

step in fi nding your dream home!

KAMLOOPS REALTY250-374-3022

My commitment as your LOCAL REALTORLOCAL REALTOR®®

Cell: 250.318.5071 | YourKamloopsHome.comEmail: [email protected] | 322 Seymour St. Kamloops, BC V2C 2G2

is to provide you with the specialized real estate service you deserve. Whether buying or selling, I invite you to contact me with any questions that you may have. My promise to you is that your experience will be both stress-free and enjoyable.

HUSEBYJenniferJennifer

CeE


THE TRUE VALUE OF A REALTOR

Realtor and real-estate agent are not interchangeable

terms, although some real-estate agents might like

them to be.

The term realtor is a registered certification mark that

identifies the quality of services rendered by licensed

real-estate agents who are members of the Canadian

Real Estate Association (CREA).

All real-estate agents are not realtors, but all realtor

members are real-estate agents.

Realtor members are committed to a strict code of

ethics known as the Realtor Code and are the only ones

who have the right to list your property on the MLS

systems of their local real-estate boards.

To correctly be referred to as a realtor, a real-estate

agent must be a member of the CREA.

You are trusting a realtor with your most valuable

possession — your home.

Realtors take this responsibility very seriously:

1. Your realtor is a trained professional:Realtors take extensive pre-licensing courses in order

to obtain credentials for practising in real estate.

2. Your realtor is continuously trained:Realtors keep pace with the times by taking

continuing education courses to upgrade their

knowledge on a broad range of real estate-related

issues in order to be able to continue to provide

consumers with current advice.

3. Your realtor does everything by the book: A realtor must be registered under provincial laws

that govern exactly how real estate can and cannot be

traded. These regulations are your legal guarantee of

professional behavior.

4. Your realtor is an ethical businessperson:Realtors must adhere to the extensive code of

ethics of the Canadian Real Estate Association. Several

provinces have additional codes of ethics governing

real-estate professionals. Your interests must always be

put first.

5. Opportunity for recourse:Should you have concerns about the professional

behaviour of a realtor, provincial regulators and your

local real-estate board or association take these matters

very seriously and work quickly to resolve any issues.

6. Your realtor has access to a local board’s MLS system:

A board’s MLS system is the single-most powerful tool

for buying and selling a home. Your realtor can provide

you with exclusive features of the board’s MLS system,

such as immediate notification when new properties

are listed. You don’t have to wait for it to be posted on a

web site.

I just want to thank you for your exceptional service throughout the sale of our Dad’s house. On a recommendation from my good friend, I was able to meet with you in September and then put you in contact with the rest of our family team – mainly our brother. We are very pleased that the sale of this house eventually went to a young couple, just starting out in life. Thank you for all the ‘above and beyond’ that we knew about (thank goodness you knew how to light a furnace that had not been in service for many years), and thank you for all the ‘above and beyond’ that we may never know about. Finally, we thank you for acknowledging our niece with a generous token of appreciation. For all of us, she certainly looked after the house. You were certainly the right real estate agent for us and we have been very pleased with your services throughout. Thank you for taking care of this sale. - S

I truly believe that I up hold this statement. Whether it is as a volunteer coach with para athletes at the Sun peaks Alpine Club or putting together a 10,000 name petition to save the buoys for the safety of those who use the river, I am just as loyal and concerned about the fi rst home that you purchase. You do not need headaches during or after your purchase. You need guidance! Even before we make an off er we need to get rid of the homes that don’t meet some of my basic standards; Resale ability, market value today, area and condition. Hidden faults are another main concern when we begin viewing hopeful homes…. Faults that may only be found by ferreting out information from the City of Kamloops, RCMP or elsewhere. We don’t want a house or condo that has poor resale or none at all due to the fact it is/was sliding down a hill or once a grow op! With my many years of experience, thoughtful approach, shrewd negotiating skills and thorough due diligence I promise you a happy experience on your fi rst purchase and the next. Best wishes – JIM

MY MOTTO IS “A PASSION FOR PEOPLE”

DEAR JIM:


HeatherUnlicensed

Assistant

AlyissaUnlicensed

Assistant

CrystalUnlicensed

Assistant

TrudyNichol-Dagere

Realtor

EricaHardingRealtor

LisaVillamoRealtor

Meryl GrantBuyer

Specialist

Personal Real Estate Corporationn

TeamKirsten MasonThe Call: 250.377.3279

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Kirsten Mason and Buyer Specialists Meryl Grant, Trudy Nichol-Dagere, Erica Harding and Lisa Villamo are dedicated full time professionals. We can guide you through the process and be counted on to answer any questions you may have along the way. Whether you are buying, selling or wish to investigate the possibilities. We care about your needs and we promise to provide the most professional, ethical and informed real estate service in the Industry.

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME?Great Service! Proven Results!


BUYorS

LL

MR. CARSWELL

ROYAL LEPAGE KAMLOOPS REALTY

(KEVIN) B.P.E./Ed.

Cell: 778-220-5432Off: 250-374-3022

[email protected] Seymour St. Kamloops, BC V2C 2G2 250-852-1162 • [email protected]

MAG G I ES C H MA LT ZREALTOR®

MakeYour Movewith Maggie

SELECTING A REALTOR

There are plenty of ways to find a realtor.

As you drive through prospective neighbourhoods,

jot down the names and numbers of realtors on the "For

Sale" signs.

Open houses are a great way to meet face-to-face.

Maybe friends or family members have a realtor they

love.

If you are browsing properties on realtor.ca, you can

also contact a realtor directly through that website.

Interview two or three and pick the one you think will be

your best “business” partner.

Here is how realtors can help buyers like you:

≈ Review your list of wants and needs to help you

determine your price range.

≈ Answer questions about the markets you’re

interested in and help you compare homes and

neighbourhoods.

≈ Use the local real-estate board’s MLS system. Your

realtor can give you access to exclusive features of an

MLS system to which the public is not privy.

≈ Preview properties to ensure you’re only shown

homes that meet your needs and budget.

≈ Make appointments and walk you through potential

homes, answering all your questions.

≈ Give up-to-the-minute information on financing and

explain your mortgage options.

≈ Negotiate with the seller, smooth out any potential

conflicts and draw up a legally binding contract.

Your realtor can become an expert on your specific

needs and tastes.

Scattering your time and energy amongst multiple

realtors will work against your goal of finding your best

home.

And because most realtors have equal access to the

same property listings, there is no real advantage to

having multiple realtors.

Homeowners should interview a few potential realtors

before deciding on one to sell their home.

Here are some smart questions to ask:

1. How long have you been in the business?

2. What is your average list-to-sales-price ratio?

3. How will your marketing plan meet my needs?

4. Will you provide references?

5. What separates you from your competition?

6. May I review documents that I will be asked to sign?

7. Can you help me find other professionals?

8. How much do you charge?

9. What if I’m unhappy with the service?

10. What haven’t I asked you that I need to know?


MORTGAGEQUESTIONS?We’ll be right there

As BMO mobile mortgage specialists we

can meet with you in-branch or bring

our expertise to your door, whenever

it’s convenient for you. Whether you are purchasing a fi rst home or your next home, choosing the right mortgage is an

important undertaking. We are committed to helping you fi nd the right fi nancing to

suit your needs and to make your mortgage experience as uncomplicated as possible.

Let’s set an appointment for a time and place that is convenient and get started.

With competitive borrowing solutions, we can help you understand your options and

fi nd the right solution for your unique needs.

For any home fi nancing related questions, contact us today!

Franco CaputoMobile Mortgage Specialist

[email protected]

Lisa KraussMobile Mortgage Specialist

[email protected]

Bev Wassen-HunterMortgage Specialist

250-572-6847 [email protected] 101F - 1180 Columbia St. West • 29 - 750 Fortune Dr


BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 1: BE READY TO PURCHASE

If you’re thinking of buying a home, you’ve come to the

right place. These pages can turn you into a house-hunting

master.

But, before we jump right in, you have to make sure three

things are ready — you, your bank account and the real-

estate market.

Are you ready? Be sure: Few joys can match the pride of owning the roof over your

head, but you will have to make some sacrifi ces.

There’s the obvious fi nancial responsibility, but your home

will also require constant care. That’s what real pride of

ownership is all about.

Is your bank account ready? Check it twice: Your fi rst home will be the biggest fi nancial obligation

you’ve ever faced. You should ideally have saved up some

money for a down payment and are managing any debts,

such as student loans or credit cards.

In a couple of steps, you can determine how much you can

aff ord.

Is right now a good time to buy?Markets go up, markets go down and even the smartest

experts can’t accurately predict when a market will peak or

bottom out.

If you’re buying a home as a long-term investment (and for

long-term enjoyment), you should be protected from short-

term changes in the market.

Pick a home that meets the needs of you and your family.

Then you’ll enjoy living in your investment as it grows in

value.

THOMPSON RIVERS APPRAISALS & Real Estate Consultants Inc.

We are a leading provider of Real Estate Appraisals and Depreciation Reports in the Kamloops region

Web: Trappraisals.ca • Email: offi [email protected]

Contact us for a Pre-Purchase appraisal report orDepreciation Report for strata properties.

All our appraisers hold the AACI P.App and CRPAccredited Appraiser and

Certifi ed Reserve Planner Designations

919 Dominion Street Kamloops, BCPhone: (250) 372-2599 Fax: 1-877-542-4845

TRAPPRA ISALS .CA

BUYING OR SELLING?

I would love

to work with you!

Let’s make that happen!

[email protected] • Work With Me Online

Cell: 250-319-9448 Office: 250-377-3030

Patricia LoveREALTOR®

CENTURY 21 Desert Hills Realty867 Victoria StreetKamloops, BCV2C 2B7

llltytytytyty

zy


WONDERING HOW TO GET FROM HERE

TO HERE?

O p e n h o u s e d e t a i l s o n l i n e a tw w w . m c m r e a l e s t a t e . c a

Are you a 1st Time Home Buyer?Don’t understand Real Estate jargon?

Scared to speak with a Real Estate agent?

Don’t know which way to turn?

LET CAROL & TANYA SHOW YOU THE ‘INS & OUTS’Call Carol Johnson: 250-377-1156

or Tanya Cokran: 250-819-4595

Green Door on St. Paul135 St. Paul Street

BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 2: DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT

Nowadays, there are many diff erent types of homes from

which to choose and there are pros and cons to each. Take a

minute to refl ect on your lifestyle and, based on that, decide

what best fi ts you.

First, decide where you want to live :

Urban: Ahh, the big city. Sure ,the prices are generally

higher, but you can walk to a restaurant, maybe even to work.

You’ll also have the widest range of housing options.

Suburban: Newer schools, newer shopping centres, bigger

yards, bigger homes — no wonder so many people love the

suburbs.

Smaller cities and towns: Canada is dotted with thousands

of wonderful self-contained communities and, compared to

the big city, you can save a bundle.

Rural: If you like the idea of owning land, how about a few

acres all to yourself? Seclusion is not for everybody but, for

some, it’s heaven.

Next, decide what type of home you want:

Single-family detached: As the name implies, the home

is not attached to the home next door. Styles range from a

single-story suburban bungalow to a three-story Victorian.

Semi-detached or linked: Two houses that share a

common wall. Usually less money than a fully detached

home.

Duplex: A building zoned for two families.

Townhouse: Also known as terrace or row housing. Several

homes with a common style and joined in a row. They usually

share walls on both sides.

Condominium: You’ll own 100 per cent of your unit and

a share of the common areas, which include the necessary

plumbing, electrical systems, hallways and elevators. They

may also include lots of fun stuff , such as a private gym or

party room.

Membership has privileges — and costs. On top of your

mortgage and property taxes, condo owners also pay a

monthly fee to operate and maintain the common areas. Be

sure to look into condo fees and how well they are managed

before signing anything.

Next, decide on new or resale.

Resale: Previously loved. Nothing can match the charm

and character of an older home. As a bonus, the previous

owner may have made improvements and upgrades and

you get them with the house, usually for less than the cost of

putting them in yourself. However, some may have a little too

much "character," like a leaky roof. Know what you’re getting

into.

New: If you’re having a new home built from the bottom

up, carefully examine the property, the blueprints and visit

other homes built by the same company. Have your realtor

and/or lawyer review everything before you sign. While

your home is being built, stay on top of the process. And

remember, you have a legal right to make a full inspection of

the house before you accept it as complete.


250.819.2557movinginkamloops.com • [email protected]

A NAME YOU CAN TRUST

MASTERSALESAWARD

JanBombardier

Whether you are purchasing, selling or wish to investigate the possibilities, I care about your needs and will take the time to provide personal attention and 100% client satisfaction.

I promise to provide the most professional, ethical and informed real estate services in the Industry. My most important assets are honesty and integrity. Feel free to review client testimonials on my website.

2 5 0 . 3 7 4 . 1 4 6 1Lindaindaoveove

Kamloops Realty250-374-3022

778-220-1227 • lovekamloops.ca • [email protected]

I would LoveLove to help you buy or sell your home!

BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 3: HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?

Before you start looking for your dream home, let’s fi nd out

how big you can dream.

Knowing your true budget is the fi rst and most important

step in buying a home.

A home is a big purchase, probably the most expensive

thing you’ll ever buy, and there are lots of expenses you

might not even know about.

Some of them include:

One-time costs: Down payment, legal fees, title insurance,

inspection fees and property-transfer taxes.

Monthly costs: Mortgage, utilities, maintenance, insurance

and property taxes,

Everybody's total costs are diff erent, but it's almost

guaranteed you won't have that much money saved up.

Hopefully, you have enough for a nice down payment, but for

the rest . . .

Yes, you need a mortgage.

So, determine how much a bank will lend you.

Head over to the next step, where you will fi nd helpful tips

on arranging your mortgage.

But, the fi rst step in determining how much a bank will

lend you is to understand how much you can aff ord each

month.

This is determined using two lending principals:

1. Gross debt-service ratio (GDSR) calculation:This lending principle simply states that your monthly

housing cost should not exceed 32 per cent of your gross

monthly family income.

2. Total debt-service ratio (TDSR) calculation:This lending principle summarizes that your monthly

housing cost and payments on all of your other debts

(including loans, credit cards and lease payments) should not

exceed 40 per cent of your gross monthly income.

i d t i d i t l di i i l


CAROL CANDY AMP

250-318-7048carolcandy.ca

STARR WEBB AMP 250-574-0115

starrwebb.ca

BRIAN DELANY 250-819-8176

briandelany.ca

MARY-ELLEN COLMAN* AMP 250-371-4868

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BUYING A HOMESTEP 4: ARRANGE A MORTGAGE

Money makes the world go round and a mortgage gives

you the power to buy a home. This isn’t the most fun step in

buying a home, but it’s vital.

Who do you talk to?There are hundreds of banks, credit unions and other

lenders out there who would love your monthly mortgage

payments. So, talk to everybody and don’t be money-shy!

Talk to your banker, other banks and people you know.

Call a mortgage broker: Mortgage brokers are a great resource. They fi nd low rates

for a living and they usually don’t get paid unless you sign a

mortgage through them, so they’re highly motivated to get

you the best deal.

Your best mortgage might be the seller’s mortgage: Often, you can take over or "assume" the seller’s mortgage.

This is a great idea if the seller is locked into a lower interest

rate than you can get right now. Your realtor may have

additional information.

Mortgage terminology Mortgage term: Refers to how long the bank has agreed to lend you the

money— typically from six months to fi ve years. At the end of

the term, you usually re-negotiate a new term.

Amortization:

The length of time it will take to pay off the whole

mortgage, often as long as 25 years. The longer your

amortization, the lower your monthly payments, but the

more you pay in interest over time.

Interest rates:

Interest is the cost of borrowing money and the interest

rate tells you exactly how much. The interest rate not only

aff ects how much you pay, it also aff ects how much you can

borrow. So, keep searching for the best rate!

How big a down payment?You want as small a mortgage as possible, which means

making the biggest down payment possible. Just remember

to set money aside for all the fees associated with buying

a home. Not to mention moving, repairs, renovations, new

furniture . . . think ahead.

The Home Buyers’ Plan — a little sweet relief:If you’re a fi rst-time homebuyer with money in an RRSP,

you can withdraw up to $25,000 without paying income tax.

If your spouse is also eligible, that’s $50,000. Ask your realtor

how to best take advantage of this plan.

Lock into an interest rate? For how long?It’s a tough question. What if you lock in for fi ve years and

the rate goes into a period of decline? That could mean

you’re stuck paying more than you had to for a long time. But,

if rates were to steadily climb over the next fi ve years, locking

in for fi ve years now would be a great move.


138 1555 HOWE ROAD 2460 AGATE BAY ROAD 415 554 SEYMOUR STREET 302 751 GRANDVIEW TERRACE

Call me for current pricing on these listings! Or any property you’re interested in!

GREAT FOR INVESTORS!GREAT FOR INVESTORS!

BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 5: FIND A REALTOR RIGHT FOR YOU

Realtors aren’t just people who help fi nd you a home.

They’re an invaluable resource for knowledge, contacts and

advice who help turn buying a piece of property into a home.

Here is what you can expect when you enlist the help of a

realtor:

There are a number of diff erent kinds of relationships you

can develop with your realtor; however, they all fall primarily

under two categories — agency relationships and non-

agency relationships.

Single agency: An agency relationship is one where the realtor represents

you exclusively. In that respect, the realtor's primary

obligation is to you and they are required to act only in your

best interests. Anything you tell your realtor agent is strictly

confi dential and the realtor has an obligation to disclose

to you any information he or she has that is related to the

transaction.

Dual agency:Dual agency refers to the situation where the realtor

represents both the buyer and the seller as agent at the same

time.

In this case, both parties are required to sign a dual-agency

contract setting out the obligations of the realtor to both

parties and obtaining the consent of the parties to this type

of representation.

Non-agency: It is possible for a realtor to work with you without being

your agent.

In this case, the realtor can give you information, but

cannot provide you with advice. There is a big diff erence

between these two concepts.

Nothing you say to a “non-agent” is confi dential, so you

have to be careful what you confi de. As a buyer, you will likely

want your realtor to act as your agent, but that decision is up

to you.

Remember, the Realtor Code requires realtors to disclose

the nature of the relationship they have with you and the

duties and obligations associated with that relationship. Make

sure you have this discussion with your realtor.

Selecting a realtor: There are lots of ways to fi nd a realtor.

As you drive through prospective neighbourhoods, jot

down the names and numbers of realtors on the "For Sale"

signs.

Open houses are a great way to meet face-to-face.

Maybe friends or family members have a realtor they love.

If you are browsing properties on realtor.ca, you can also

contact a realtor directly through that website.

Interview two or three and pick the one you think will be

your best “business” partner.


BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 6: SEE WHAT'S OUT THERE

Now’s the time to pound the

pavement and see what’s available.

This step can be either incredibly

fun or incredibly exhausting. But,

with an expert realtor at your side,

you’ll be able to sift through to your

dream home much more eff ectively.

Read and see all about it:

≈ Start reading real estate ads in

Kamloops This Week.

≈ Visit the areas you’re considering

to get a feel for them.

≈ Make note of surrounding

schools, shopping and recreational

areas.

≈ Keep an eye out for not-so-great

things like large industrial areas, railway

tracks and airports.

≈ Visit during the day and at night.

Open Houses, come on in:Open houses are a great way to see inside the homes of

your potential neighbourhood. If a realtor

is hosting the open house, he or she

probably knows the local market inside

and out and will be happy to answer your

questions.

Don’t be afraid to ask!

Realtors have access to incredible

house-hunting tools called MLS systems,

which are operated by real-estate boards

across Canada.

You can view publicly available

information about MLS listings at www.

realtor.ca. Your realtor can start sending

you listings of potential homes right away.

Most listings will have multiple

photos — and some even have moving

360-degree views! And, with the

interactive mapping feature, you’ll be

amazed how fast and easy it is to zero in

on your favourite few homes.

Stay objective when visiting potential homes:

Walking through a potential home is a thrill, but try not to

lose your head.

Don’t let a giant kitchen island or swanky hot tub distract

you from your real goal, which is fi nding a home that meets

all your needs and fi ts your budget.

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DEB FEHR CELL: [email protected] • WWW.DFEHR.CA

DEB FEHR CELL: [email protected]/DEBORAH.FEHR

W E S T E R N L E N D I N G S O U R C E

Real Estate for the real world

Desert Hills Realty • 867 Victoria St, Kamloops

I MAKE REAL ESTATE EASY…Buying and Selling Real Estate is many things. It can be exciting, confusing and stressful all at the same time, as it represents the largest transaction most people and families will ever make.

With me, you can focus on the exciting, while I remove the confusion and the stress… because I make Real Estate Easy!

HOW I’M DIFFERENT…As both a Real Estate agent, and a Licensed Mortgage expert, I’m different. I prefer to tackle fi nancing fi rst, so working together we can determine exactly what you can afford, and build a plan based on your needs and objectives. That way, there are no surprises. Now the house hunt can begin in earnest, and when you fi nd your dream home, its yours.

WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOU…Whether you are buying or selling, using me as your Real Estate Professional means you get over 25 years of Real Estate, Mortgage and Financial experience. That combined with my love of Real Estate and knowledge of the Kamloops area means that you will get the highest level of professional service.

My goal is your referral. When our business is done, If I get that, then I’ve done my job.

SO LET’S GET STARTED…Together we can do a comprehensive review of your fi nances, as they relate to Real Estate. From there we can come up with an action plan, and review all of the variables and possibilities with a view to making your Real Estate dreams a reality, either today or with careful planning, tomorrow.

CALL ME TODAY FOR YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION HOMEEVALUATION AND/OR MORTGAGE FINANCING REVIEW


1216B Battle Street, Kamloops250.372.5045 PORTFOLIOINTERIORS.CA

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ESSENTIAL INSURANCE TIPS

From mortgage approval to making an off er to paying

closing costs ‚ buying your fi rst home is both exciting and

scary.

At the top of this list, for example, is home insurance.

Not only will insurance protect you should anything

happen to your home or its contents, but it is also necessary

to secure a mortgage.

“First-time home buyers can become overwhelmed with

all the steps required to purchase a home and often need

to make a quick decision about home insurance,” says John

Jenner, vice-president of marketing and communications at

Western Financial Group.

“But, a quick decision might not be the right decision and

fi rst-time buyers should be aware of the important choices

they need to make.”

As a starting point, here are three concepts that fi rst-time

home buyers should understand:

≈ All perils vs. named perils: A named perils policy

provides protection against hazards or events, such as fi re or

vandalism, which are specifi cally listed on your policy.

Named perils policies are usually less expensive, but you

run the risk of being struck by a calamity that isn't on your list.

An all-perils policy will cover you against everything expect

perils that are specifi cally excluded in your policy.

Check over your insurance policy to ensure you have

adequate coverage and consider taking safeguards, such

as installing a sump pump, to prevent disasters that aren't

included in your policy.

≈ Contents insurance: Your insurance policy will likely cover

more than just your home. It will cover your possessions as

well.

There are two typical types of coverage that apply to the

contents of your home — actual cash value or replacement

cost.

The actual cash value coverage will reimburse you for how

much your possessions were worth when they were lost

or damaged. For quickly depreciating items such as TVs or

computers, you may not receive enough money from your

insurance claim to actually replace the item that was lost.

If you have many items that have depreciated quickly, but

you would be forced to replace if disaster struck, you should

consider a policy that covers the actual replacement cost of

your possessions.

≈ Loss of use: Make sure you understand the loss of use

section of your insurance policy.

It outlines the living expenses you'll receive should you be

forced to leave your home because of a disaster.

It often will cover your increase in cost of living while you

are displaced from your home.

More information is available online at www.

westernfi nancialgroup.ca.



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INFORMATION FOR BUYERSIf you are interested in buying real estate in the

Kamloops area then we can help you.

Whether you are looking for property in the City

center or in the outlying area, one thing is for

sure, you need the advice of local Real Estate

Experts.

We have access to all listings throughout the

Kamloops area and stay up to date on all the

latest Real Estate trends in our entire region.

As REALTORS® we will be able to help you:

Select a Property• Identify desirable types of properties to

acquire

• Choose what area suits your individual

needs

• Locate properties for sale in your desired

location

• Guide you on viewing the properties you are

interested in

• Help you select the right property to make an

offer on

Make an Offer• Negotiate favourable terms and conditions

• Prepare a Contract of Purchase & Sale

containing clauses for your protection & benefi t

• Help arrange suitable fi nancing if necessary

Finalize an Accepted Offer• Assist in arranging fi nal property inspections

• Prepare the Transfer of Title contact with your

solicitor

• Ensure the completion & possession process

goes smoothly

• Follow-up in the future to ensure issues are

handled properly

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in the Kamloops Area, then you have come to the right place.

River City Realty’s Team 110 pride’s itself on superior customer service, knowledge, professionalism & expertise.

REALTOR®

Jeremy BatesRealtor®

Tanya NeyUnlicensed Assistant


BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 7: MAKE AN OFFER

You’ve found a home? Congratulations!

Now, if you actually want to make it yours, you have to

make a successful offer, one that the seller will accept.

Preparing the offer: Realtors can prepare the offer for you.

Here are some terms you’ll see in the offer:

Buyer: That’s you.

Seller: The present owners.

Purchase price: The most important number. Let’s hope

the seller goes for it!.

Deposit: A cheque you write to the seller or the seller’s

broker. This is your way of saying, "My offer is serious."

The size of the deposit is up to you.

Chattels included and fixtures: Be sure you know what is included with the house —

the washer and dryer, the microwave, draperies, light

fixtures.

Don’t leave anything to chance.

Irrevocability of the offer: The length of time you give the seller to consider your

offer. Usually less than 48 hours.

Completion date:

The glorious day you take possession!

Often 30 or 60 days after signing.

Clauses particular to this agreement: Every transaction is unique and you may want to add

conditions that are important to you, such as a proper

home inspection.

Your realtor can help ensure no details are overlooked

in your offer.

Submitting the offer: You’ve signed on the dotted line and your realtor has

provided your offer to the seller.

The seller can accept your offer .

Fantastic, when do you move in?

The seller can reject your offer.

It’s not common for an offer to be completely rejected.

If it was, your realtor can investigate why and see if there

was some misunderstanding.

The seller can "sign back" or counter your offer.

The seller wants to alter some part of your offer —

most likely the price.

The seller will cross out the price on your offer and

write a higher number — or delete or alter some

conditions.

Now it’s your turn to sign back with any additional

changes or your acceptance of the counter-offer.

Good luck!


Canada’s Leading Home Inspection Company

BILL JOHNSON CMHI, CEAPh: 250-377-0026Email: [email protected]/kamloops

We pride ourselves on providing the peace of mind people have come to expect from Canada’s mind people have come to expect from Canada’s Leading Home Inspection Company.Leading Home Inspection Company.

We provided homebuyers, We provided homebuyers, home sellers and real estate home sellers and real estate professionals with quality home professionals with quality home inspections and valuable energy inspections and valuable energy effi ciency evaluations.effi ciency evaluations. The home The home buying and selling process can be buying and selling process can be very stressful. An AmeriSpec home very stressful. An AmeriSpec home inspection can help a homeowner inspection can help a homeowner better understand the condition of better understand the condition of the home they are buying or selling. the home they are buying or selling. Our professional and knowledgeable Our professional and knowledgeable home inspectors can make you feel home inspectors can make you feel more secure with your home purchase more secure with your home purchase or selling decision.or selling decision.

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QUALITY HOME INSPECTIONS

BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 8: FIND A HOME INSPECTOR

Purchasing a home is a big decision that

requires a large fi nancial investment.

A buyer requires all the pertinent

information available to them. The best way

to learn more details about your new home

is to have it inspected beforehand.

Make a conditional off er based upon a

satisfactory home inspection as this is an

increasingly standard condition on any

resale home.

If the seller doesn’t want you closely

examining the home before you take

possession, you have to wonder why.

Go with a qualifi ed professional:Make sure your inspector is a member of

a recognized professional organization. It

helps provide some assurance they have the

training and experience for the job.

What will they check during the inspection?

Lots of stuff . Plumbing and electrical

systems, the roof, visible insulation, walls,

ceilings, fl oors, windows and the integrity of the foundation.

They also check for lead paint, asbestos, mould, outdated

and dangerous wiring and evidence of pests like mice or

termites.

Join the inspection: Get up close and familiar with

your new home.

If any problems are detected,

you’ll see them fi rst-hand and learn

some maintenance tips from a pro.

You’ll get it in writing: Their report will summarize the

condition of your home.

If there’s anything that needs

work, the home inspector will

provide an estimated cost for the

repairs.

Home inspection for a new home?

New does not equal perfect and

construction quality can vary greatly

from builder to builder.

In some provinces, repairs and

corrections in new homes may

be covered by a government- or

industry-sponsored warranty

program.

Bad news doesn’t necessarily mean it will have to cost you.

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BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 9: ADD A LAWYER TO YOUR TEAM

Buying a home involves piles of legal documents.

You need someone to translate the "legalese" and ensure

your best interests are protected.

Finding a lawyer: There are lots of experienced real estate lawyers out

there.

Ask your friends or co-workers.

Realtors will happily give you the names of several

lawyers experienced in real estate.

Be sure you ask your lawyer how they structure their fees

and get an estimate of the other legal costs you can expect.

How your lawyer will help: There are many, many legal steps to transferring

ownership of land from one person to another.

Even if pitfalls like fraud, government legislation, zoning

issues or unpaid taxes don't come up, your lawyer will more

than earn their pay by making the legal transfer of the home

a smooth one.

Have confi dence in your lawyer:He or she is here to help you.

Ask questions if you don't understand anything.

Explaining legal jargon in plain language is a big part of

their job.

Phone: 250-374-3337Fax: 250-374-3037

243 Seymour St, Kamloops

WOITASMCLEOD& ASSOCIATES

YOUR SPECIALISTS IN REAL ESTATE LAW

Gary Woitas and Rod McLeod offer a full range of legal service including formation of corporations, advising on business legal decisions, wills, drafting and estates, real estate services, and in particular residential and commercial conveyancing/mortgages. GARY WOITASROD McLEOD


BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 10: CLOSE THE PURCHASE

Your off er has been accepted and you can’t wait to move

in — but, don’t break out the bubbly just yet.

You have to close the deal.

Your realtor and lawyer will do

most of the closing work, but here’s

your checklist:

1. Immediately begin satisfying

any conditions of the agreement

that require action on your part. Your

realtor can fi ll out the documents

stating the conditions have been

satisfi ed.

2. Have your lawyer begin searching

title to the property. This can take a while,

so make sure you allow ample time.

3. Well before closing, get your

homeowner’s insurance to be eff ective on

your closing date. Your insurance broker will

give you a "binder" letter certifying you are covered.

You can’t get a mortgage without this letter!

4. Contact your lender and have them fi nalize your

mortgage documents. Have your lawyer review them before

you sign.

5. Your lawyer will transfer essential utilities, like hydro and

water, but you’ll have to make sure telephone and

cable companies switch their services to your name.

6. If you rent, give notice to your landlord or

sublease your apartment.

7. Begin planning your big move! Where are

those cardboard boxes?

8. Send out your change of address

information and fi ll out a card at the post

offi ce. Contact the government about

changing information on your driver's

licence.

9. Walk through your new home one

more time with your realtor.

10. A day or two before closing, you’ll meet with

your lawyer to sign the closing documents. Your lawyer will

tell you in advance what certifi ed cheques you’ll need to seal

the deal.

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SOLD

Kelly Provencherwww.realestateforsalekamloops.com

250.571.9422

RUBY SAYS:RUBY SAYS:Whether you’re a fi rst time home buyer,

new to Kamloops or just moving, callKelly for all your real estate needs

JessicaMATT250-374-3022je-matt@hotmail.comJessicaMattRealEstate.com

[email protected] of KamloopsChamber of Commerce

LET US HELP YOUEVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Do I Need

A Home

Inspection?

RATESWhat CanI Aff ord?

S

How Does

The Buying

Process Work?

Should I buy New or

Pre-Owned?

COSTS/FEES

What Are Most

Desirable Areas?

ARE YOU A FIRST TIME HOME BUYER & HAVE A

Do I Need h ldSh

BAG FULL OF QUESTIONS?BAG FULL OF QUESTIONS?

Kamloops Realty250-374-3022


ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE& HOME WITH STYLE

[email protected]

www.NeatAndChic.com

ORGANIZING YOUR LIFEORGANIZING YOUR LIFE

Styling YourHome to Sell

NEAT CHICHome Staging&

CERTIFIED PROPERTY STYLIST

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Jackie Brommeland250-574-3701

Call or email today for further information.

BUYING? LET ME HELP! HELPFUL BUYER TIPS

Kamloops Realty250.374.3022

Imagine the Property VacantYour furnishings and decorations will be the ones fi lling this new residence. Don’t be swayed by beautiful furniture; it leaves with the owner.

Plan For FlexibilityClosing dates are not written in stone. Allow for contingencies and have a back-up plan. If you or the sellers need a little more time to conclude the fi nal arrangements, don’t let these delays upset or frustrate you.

Do a Final Walk-throughVisit the property after all furnishings have been moved out to be sure there are no surprises.

View Several HomesSee at least 7-10 properties. Don’t move too slowly, but don’t move on the fi rst property.

If It’s Not In Writing, It Doesn’t ExistAll promises and discussions should be in writing. Don’t make any assumptions or believe any assurances. Even the best intentions can be misinterpreted. Have your

professional keep an ongoing log in writing of all discussions and get the seller’s written approval on all agreements.

Be a DetectiveCheck out all costs and expenses before you sign, including utilities, taxes, insurance, maintenance, and home owner dues if applicable. Ask lots of questions and be very detail conscious.

Income + Lifestyle = Mortgage PaymentSit down with your real estate agent and honestly discuss your income levels. Take into account future considerations, children, add-ons, amenities, and fi x-ups.

Call today to be included on my Private Client Services (PCS) for Buyers where I set all my clients up with their very own personalized search of all MLS® listings. When ready, we can start viewing any homes of interest!

BUYING A NEW HOMESTEP 11: MOVE IN!

Moving day will come sooner than you think, so get

planning now.

"Closing date" may or may not mean moving date: It may or may not be practical to move in on the closing

date. You may not get the keys to your new home until late in

the day.

So, you may want to try to schedule the actual move for a

day or so after closing. If you intend to move at the end of the

month, contact a moving company or truck-rental company

now before they’re all booked. If you can move mid-week or

mid-month, a moving company might cut you a deal.

Go with a reputable moving company: We’ve all heard moving horror stories. Go with an

established, insured mover, so your items are protected.

Pack it yourself and pack early: Nobody will take the same care you will. Start early and

spread it out over many days. Label all your boxes by room so

movers know where to put them — and label anything that’s

fragile.

Do you really need to take that with you?

A new home is a new lease on life and a chance to liberate

yourself from stuff you simply don’t need. If you haven’t used

it or worn it in the last year, you probably don’t need it.

Have a garage sale or give it to charity.

Once you move in:The boxes are mostly unpacked and you’re settling in

nicely.

You will now feel a strange urge to begin making changes

and improvements right away. That old carpet has to go, a

bigger deck would be great for entertaining . . . slow down!

Take time to get a feel for your new home and, more

importantly, your new budget.

Take a deep breath and enjoy what you have — your new

home.

l h


WHAT ABOUT SELLING? DO I NEED A REALTOR?

Many people who try to sell their own home end up using a

realtor in the end anyway.

Before anybody decides to fl y solo through this complex, time-

consuming and fi nancially perilous process, they should consider

these questions:

Will you really “save” the real-estate commission? When buyers see a home for sale "by the owner," they see a

bargain. They imagine the realtor's fee going into their pocket, not

yours.

How many potential buyers will you reach? Selling a home takes more than just hanging a “For Sale” sign.

How will you promote your home? Will you write your own ads?

How will you use the Internet? MLS and the corresponding

website, www.realtor.ca, have changed the way people search for

homes and it’s hard to court buyers without it.

Do you have the time? Promoting a home is a full-time job and you may already have

one. Will you be able to take calls at any time? How about screening

the callers to fi gure out if they’re suitable candidates?

Not everybody who calls is even suitable to walk through your

home, but how do you tell?

Do you know the market well enough to get the most for your home?

Lacking years of experience, the average do-it-yourselfer is merely

guessing at their listing price.

Often they set the price too low and miss out on thousands of

dollars or they price their home too high and drive away willing

buyers.

Do you have the negotiation skills to keep a deal on track?

When an off er comes in, emotions can run high with so much

money on the line.

This is why direct seller-to-buyer deals often end in disaster.

Realtors keep it professional and are indispensable when it comes

to bargaining with buyers.

Often they set the price too low and miss out on thousands of

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MOVING CHECKLIST

Moving always brings mixed

emotions. It can be very exciting and

stressful at the same time.

To help, here are some useful tips

that will help make your move effi cient

and trouble-free:

4 to 6 weeks before moving:

≈ Contact Canada Post to have your

mail forwarded to your new address.

2 to 3 weeks before moving:

≈ Get boxes and moving supplies.

≈ Arrange phone service at your new

home.

≈ Take unwanted items to charity

and/or dump.

≈ Arrange the return of any cable TV

equipment.

≈ Complete necessary change of

address forms, including drivers’ licence,

health card, insurance companies,

employer, doctor, dentist, gym/club

memberships, bank accounts, credit

cards, Canada Customs and Revenue

Agency, etc.

≈ Notify kids’ schools, transfer records.

≈ Register at new school.

≈ Get copies of medical and dental

records; if you have pets, get copies of

veterinary records.

8 to 14 days before moving:

≈ Return borrowed items.

≈ Arrange connection of utilities at

new place.

≈ Retrieve loaned items.

≈ Arrange disconnection of utilities at

old place.

≈ Arrange for major appliances to be

moved, if necessary.

2 to 7 days before moving:

≈ Pack a suitcase with the clothes

and toiletries that you’ll need the fi rst

day in your new home.

≈ Prepare “installed items” that you’re

bringing.

≈ Pack a special box with other

essentials you’ll need for the fi rst few

days and marks this box “Do Not Move”.

The day before moving:

≈ Pack your personal belongings,

except your alarm clock, necessary

clothes, jewelry and bedding.

≈ Empty, defrost and clean

refrigerator. Clean the stove.

Moving day!

≈ Keep paperwork accessible.

≈ Collect all keys and keep them in a

safe place.

≈ Clean premises that you are

leaving, inspect with the landlord.

≈ Final walk-through. Check all

closets and cabinets.

≈ If using a moving company,

confi rm the new address and delivery

time with the driver.

≈ If using a moving company,

walk about with supervisor and sign

inventory forms.

After moving:

Contact city/municipal offi ces to fi nd

out about garbage pick up, recycling

facilities and local regulations and

information.


A QUICK SUMMARY

In KTW's First Time Home Buyer's Guide, we have

presented 11 crucial steps to purchasing your fi rst home.

Below you will fi nd a quick guide to reference when you

start your journey, ensuring you don’t miss a thing!

STEP PAGE

1. Make sure you're ready

2. Decide what you want

3. How much can you aff ord?

4. Arrange a mortgage

5. Find a realtor

6. Find out what is out there

7. Make an off er

8. Find an inspector

9. Find a lawyer

10. Closing your purchase

11: Move in!

8

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10

11

12

13

19

20

21

22

23

Your “Household” Name in Real EstateYour “Household” Name in Real Estate

250-374-3331Children’s Miracle Networkren’s M racle Networdren’s Miracle Networ

Linda Turner Ch dChildP e r s o n a l R e a l E s t a t e C o r p o r a t i o n

Real Estate (Kamloops)Real Estate (Kamloops)

WHEN YOU ARE READY...we would love to help you buy or sell your home”WHEN YOU ARE READYWHEN YOU ARE READYYY...we would love to help you buy or sell your home”YYY...we would love to help you buy or sell your home”d ove to e p you buy or se your ome”YY

www.LindaTurner.bc.ca [email protected] [email protected] LISTING SERVICE


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OTHER QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR REALTOR:

Is a property-disclosure statement available? In British Columbia, sellers may have completed a property-

disclosure statement. This statement provides information about

the state of the home to potential buyers.

What is the zoning on this home?

The zoning on a home is established by the local government.

Zoning sets the type of buildings that may be built on any

particular piece of property and how those buildings may be

used: Single-family residential, duplexes, multi-family residential,

commercial or industrial.

Is a land title search available?

A land title search will allow you to see who is registered as

the current owner of the home and if there are any registered

mortgages, easements, restrictive covenants, rights of way, etc.,

which may aff ect the use or value of the home.

Are there any restrictive covenants? A restrictive covenant places a specifi c limitation on the

owner’s use or occupancy of the property.

Are there any easements?An easement is a right or privilege one party has to use the

land of another for a special purpose

How much are the property taxes? The amount of property taxes payable will fi gure in the

calculation of how much money you can borrow to fi nance your

purchase.

Is the structure covered by any warranty? Homes built by a licensed residential builder under a building

permit applied for on or after July 1, 1999, or where construction

began on or after July 1, 1999, in areas where no building permit

is required, are subject to the mandatory third-party warranty

insurance provisions of the Homeowner Protection Act, unless

there is an applicable exemption.

Fixtures vs. chattels:Things contained in a building or on the land are classifi ed as

either fi xtures or chattels. The diff erence between a fi xture and

a chattel is very important to you because fi xtures stay with the

home when it is sold, but chattels depart with the old owner.

Are there permits in place? Are there permits in place for building and/or renovation work

and for the electrical and gas systems including original and

alterations/additions?

What about strata properties and co-operatives? If you are contemplating the purchase of a home that involves

strata, there are some additional points to consider:

≈ What are the monthly charges for common area

maintenance (strata fees)?

≈ Does the building have a good reputation for honesty and

successful operations?

Are units not controlled by the developer being successfully

resold?


DREAM HOME CHECKLIST

NEEDS

Exterior:≈ Single family detached home

≈ Fenced backyard

≈ Semi-detached home

≈ 1-storey home

≈ 2-storey home

≈ 3-storey home

≈ Condominium

≈ Townhouse

≈ Mature trees/landscaped yard

Interior:≈ 1 bedroom

≈ 2 bedrooms

≈ 3 bedrooms

≈ 4 or more bedrooms

≈ 1 bathroom

≈ 1.5 bathrooms

≈ 2 bathrooms

≈ 3 or more bathrooms

≈ Separate dining room

≈ Separate family room

WANTS

Exterior:≈ Large lot and yard

≈ Swimming pool

≈ Low-maintenance landscaping

Interior:≈ Fireplace(s)

≈ Walk-in closet(s)

≈ Closet in entranceway

≈ Eat-in kitchen

Denise BouwmeesterCell 250-319-3876

SENIORSREAL ESTATE SPECIALIST

(Kamloops) Real Estate

[email protected]

When you make the important decision to buy or sell a home in the Kamloops area, I am committed to going the extra mile to ensure that all of your needs are successfully met in a professional and honest manner.

For Service and Commitment with your Kamloops Real Estate transactions let me be your guide.

Mortgage ConsultantAMP, PFPJoanne Richards

• First-time Home Purchase

• New Immigrant Financing

• Renewals• Refi nancing

Your Home• Purchasing• Self-employment

Programs

JOANNE RICHARDSMORTGAGE CONSULTANT AMP, PFPMobile 250-320-4214Toll-free Fax 888-594-9123Website www.joannerichards.caEmail [email protected]

•

•

••

••

Canada’s Mortgage ExpeArts™

DBA-Brenda Colman

I CAN HELP WITH…


SEVEN COMMON MISTAKES AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

Becoming a homebuyer and applying for a mortgage can

seem overwhelming, especially if it’s your fi rst time.

With the help of an RBC expert and dedicated mobile-

mortgage specialists, it can be easy.

To help you feel more confi dent and prepared for becoming

a fi rst-time homeowner, we’ve put together a list of seven of the

most common pitfalls:

1. Thinking you won’t qualify for a mortgage

Dreaming of owning your own home, but not sure if you qualify

for a mortgage? Even if your credit history is less than perfect, we

can help you fi nd a solution.

2. Not knowing all the down payment choices You’ll be glad to know that there are diff erent options available,

depending on how much of a down payment you can aff ord:

≈ Conventional mortgage or RBC Homeline Plan (20 per cent

down payment).

≈ Low down payment mortgage (minimum fi ve per cent

down).

3. Focusing too much on the interest rate, rather than the overall solution

All too often, fi rst-time home buyers give more thought to

interest rates than the mortgage solution itself.

≈ Fixed-rate mortgage: Fixed-rate mortgages off er the security

of locking in your interest rate for the term of your mortgage

and your payment amount stays the same, providing ease of

budgeting. The main advantage is that the interest rate stays the

same during the term of the mortgage and that you know exactly

how much of your payment is applied to principal and interest.

Variable-rate mortgage: With a variable rate mortgage, your

payments remain the same, regardless of fl uctuating interest

rates. When rates go down, more of your payment goes to pay

the principal and less to interest, enabling you to pay off your

mortgage sooner. When rates go up, the reverse happens as less

of your payment goes toward the principal and more to interest,

extending the amortization period.

≈ Combined fi xed- and variable-rate mortgage: With the RBC

Homeline Plan, you can enjoy the advantages of both variable and

fi xed rates by diversifying your mortgage. That means the variable

portion allows you to take advantage of potential long-term

savings, while the fi xed-rate portion protects you if rates rise.

4. Being unrealistic about how much you can aff ord to pay for your home

You may be under- or over-estimating how much you can

aff ord to pay for your home. Our online mortgage calculators

make it easy for you — all you need to do is log in to www.

rbcroyalbank.com/mortgages and click on the “How much home

can I aff ord?” link.

5. Not considering a mortgage pre-approval Knowing the amount you will be approved for gives you the

confi dence to begin looking at homes within your price range.

6. Not choosing your own mortgage payments schedule

Customize your amortization period depending on how much

you can aff ord. Paying off your mortgage sooner saves you interest

costs, while a longer amortization period reduces your regular

payment amount and gives you more room to manage your cash

fl ow. Because extended amortization means increased interest

costs and paying down a mortgage more slowly, this option isn’t

for everyone.

See www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/mortgages/home_

protector_insurance.html for details of coverage.

7. Not knowing your credit rating

A credit rating is a record of your credit history and current

fi nancial situation, which typically translates into a credit rating

score. Lenders can use your credit rating to verify your repayment

history. Checking your history is easy! Simply ask for a copy of your

credit rating at either www.equifax.ca or www.tuc.ca.

To learn more: ≈ Talk to an RBC mobile mortgage specialist.

≈ Visit your local branch.

≈ Call 1-800 ROYAL 70 (769-2570)

≈ Visit www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/mortgages/fi rst_

time_home_buyers.

CONTACT LEE ANDREWS TO BOOK YOUR SPOT!778-257-7099 • [email protected]

IN ATTENDANCE:• Gary Woitas, Real Estate Specialist (he is a lawyer)• Kevin Carswell, Royal Lepage Kamloops Realty• RBC Mortgage Specialists

Please join us for the fi rst seminar in our First Time Home Buyer’s series!

SO YOU’VE DECIDED TO BUY A HOME...THEN YOU SHOULD ATTEND OUR

FIRST TIME HOME BUYER’S SEMINAR!JULY 25TH 78PM • 615 VICTORIA ST, CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

e Home Buyer’s series!

LIMITED LIMITED SEATINGSEATING


LAST, BUT NOT LEAST . . . A VERY USEFUL RESOURCE

The New Homes Registry, which can be found online

at http://www.hpo.bc.ca/new-homes-registry, provides

prospective home buyers with information that will help

make more-informed decisions when buying a new home.

It’s a useful resource for home buyers, realtors, lawyers,

local governments and others interested in quickly

checking the status of a new home or a new home under

construction.

Use it to fi nd out if a new home or new home under

construction has a policy of home-warranty insurance and

is built by a licensed residential builder.

You can search for single-detached homes and multi-unit

(including duplex) buildings.

If the home does not have home-warranty insurance, it

may have been built under an owner builder authorization

or it may be exempt because it is a rental building.

This information is also available on the registry.

The New Homes Registry can be searched using the civic

address or legal description.

Only homes registered with the HPO since Nov. 19, 2007,

are searchable on this registry.

If you cannot fi nd the home you are looking for, call, toll-

free, 1-800-407-7757 for assistance.

Legal Fees Paid Show Homes Move-in Ready Great Location $10,000 Home Buyers Grant Flexible Financing 10-Yr New Home Warranty

Home ownership made easier.

Quality, Affordable LivingKOKANEE COURT

Show Home Hours11am - 4pm Monday - Sunday

7805 Dallas Drive • 250-573-2278

• Well appointed, energy ef cient homes• Wonderful community• Bus service in front• Close to amenities• Beautiful landscape plan• Community garden area• Flexible nancing

Tired ofPaying Rent?

$891/monthBased on 5% Down Payment


RJ TOOR778-220-7653

RJ says Congratulations on your decision

to become a homeowner! Buying a home is one of the most exciting — and important — moments of your life. Your home is not just the roof over your head, where you live, eat, sleep, play, and raise a family; it’s also one of the most important investments you’ll ever make.

As a fi rst-time homebuyer, it’s important that you fi nd someone you feel completely comfortable with, who you can trust, and who listens to you and respects your views. They have the market knowledge and expertise, but at the end of the day, it’s your home and your investment, so you must be able to work well with your agent.

RJ is an experienced, professional RE/MAX agent who understands and excels at this.

A few of the reasons to choose RJ to help you through the process...

• Provides you with the highest standard of care and extreme loyalty to you as the client.

• Understands your specifi c needs and wants, and locates appropriate properties.

• Assists you in determining how much you can afford.

• Helps you get pre-approved for your mortgage.

• Previews and/or accompanies you in viewing properties

• Believes the whole process is all about you

• RJ has 25 years of sales and negotiating experience which he will put to work for you

• RJ uses all the latest technology and tools to help you with your purchase

Call or email RJ for your Free First Time buyer’s guide. This guide explains the complete step by step process to purchasing a home.

Choosing the right REALTOR®

does make a difference!

rjtoor.com | [email protected]

LEEANDREWSMobile Mortgage

Specialist

[email protected]

mortgage.rbc.com/lee.andrews

DEBRA CLEARWATER

MortgageSpecialist

[email protected]

mortgage.rbc.com/debra.clearwater

JULIA HOLMES

Mobile Mortgage Specialist

[email protected]

mortgage.rbc.com/julia.holmes

SUSAN HUTCHINSONMobile Mortgage

Specialist

[email protected]

mortgage.rbc.com/susan.hutchinson

à Professional consultation — free professional advice, seven days a week, at a time and place most convenient to you

à On-the-spot mortgage pre-approval

All personal lending products and residential mortgages are offered by Royal Bank of Canada and are subject to its standard lending criteria. *Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. ™Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada.

Advice you can bank on™

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME? LOTS OF QUESTIONS? WE’VE GOT ANSWERS.

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July 16, 2013

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