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What should you say when your mom asks if you want the Christmas decorations you made in kindergarten? What about when your dad asks for help with his cell phone? Here's what you shouldn't say!

Hello and welcome to AT THE ISLAND WITH HELM. I'm Janet HELM, your Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), and rightsizing guide! What not to say? "No, mom, I don't want my kindergarten Christmas decorations." What not to say to Dad: "That's easy." Or worse, "I've shown you before, Dad."

Kudos to your mom for starting to declutter! She doesn't want to throw out items; she wants to ensure they find a good home. Kudos to your dad, who wants to stay updated and current.



Always respond with, "Yes, Mom, that's thoughtful of you to have kept them all these years.'

And to your dad? "That sounds difficult to figure out over the phone. Let's look at it together when I'm there on the weekend."

Oh, and by the way, if you're storing any items at your parents' place—yearbooks, couches, weights, camping equipment—it's time to move them from their house to yours! Lean into where they are. For more tips on how to communicate with your parents about rightsizing, Ask HELM!

 
 
 
 
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The Importance of Curb Appeal

Selling your home can be one of life's most stressful events. You want it to sell quickly—and preferably, above the asking price! Keep in mind that over 90% of buyers will see your home for sale online first, then drive by before they even call their Realtor to view it or attend the open house! That is why professional staging, photography, and curb appeal are paramount to ensure you attract the best buyers, not just any buyer. Curb appeal sets the buyers' expectations for what they'll see inside the house. Pay particular attention to the front entrance where the buyers will be waiting while their agent allows access. The first impression of the home is critical. Sometimes homeowners may overlook minor details that accumulate over time when they have lived in a property for an extended period. Ensure light fixtures are wiped clean and working, and the doormat is new. This is a good time to replace the old mailbox and exterior light with modern black ones, which are an inexpensive fix. We recently did this for a home, and the inexpensive detail added an immediate modern feel to the front entrance. Keeping your exterior lights and patio lights on during the evening, as buyers often drive by in the evening as well, knowing there is additional outdoor space will be appreciated.

If the landscaping, for example, is unkempt, the buyer may assume that the house has not been maintained. You want buyers to know your home is as well maintained on the inside as outside. Add fresh mulch around plants, reseed the bare patches on the lawn, and add some colorful flowers to the garden beds. Remember, your entrance sets the tone for the entire presentation. That is where the buyer’s attitude begins. Selling a home for top dollar takes more than putting a for sale sign on a yard! Details matter and are noticed. Photo of a home we helped sell- in multiple offers and above asking. 

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Downsizing Myths!

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT DOWNSIZING! Check out the video on LinkedIn Click here! 

1st myth-you are moving to a smaller home. Many of our clients move to a one-level rancher, condo or townhome, that is the same size, or larger simply without the stairs, more centrally located, walking distance to amenities, friends and family.
Other myths include downsizing is only for retirees or empty nesters. Some of my clients are moving as want to live a simpler life, pay their home off faster and gain the confidence and comfort of being debt-free.
Another myth is that moving to a retirement living residence will limit personal freedom. Today’s retirement communities offer more independence, not less. If you want to know more about retirement lifestyle communities, and the different options available, and you don’t know where to start, feel free to email or call me. I’ll always provide honest & unbiased information and guidance for you and your loved ones.
Another myth is, that moving means sacrificing comfort or space. Living with just what you love and need frees up physical space and provides peace of mind.
And another myth, “Any Realtor® can help me.” Work with an expert who has market expertise to sell your home for top dollar and a program that’s specially designed to guide you through the entire process.
Whether you need a little guidance or entire move management ask HELM! I’m always just a phone call away!
Contact me to register for one of our free info sessions- in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge senior centres and our Lunch and Learn at Chartwell Churchill House in North Vancouver. You’ll walk away with lots of resources, and information including the difference between right sizing and downsizing!
Call 604 730 2600 

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