Frequently, the most challenging aspect of putting your home on the market is preparing it for sale. This process can be stressful, time-consuming, and frankly, quite overwhelming for both you and your loved ones. Many individuals are unsure where to even begin, often resulting in homes being listed in less-than-ideal conditions. Naturally, you want to avoid having your property linger on the market for months or settling for a price below its true value.

We keep our clients well-informed throughout every step of the transaction, including anticipating potential buyer inquiries, ultimately ensures a seamless process for all involved. Our approach not only achieves the best possible price for your property but also minimizes the waiting time. HELM's commitment extends beyond mere real estate dealings; Janet HELM is recognized not just as a Realtor, yet as a trusted companion in significant life transitions. "At HELM, our focus isn't solely on the property itself, but on understanding and addressing our clients' unique circumstances and needs."  

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. 

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 

When you love what you do results happen! As you’ll often hear me say, nothing gives me more energy than a clear purpose. In my vision, I see a community where every older adult and their family are supported with unparalleled care and expertise as they navigate the next chapter of their lives. My mission is to redefine and raise the bar on the real estate experience for older adults and their families, combining traditional values with modern expertise to create a personalized experience.I offer not just options, but tailored solutions that empower people to make confident decisions about their future. If you or know of someone who has questions, considering rightsizing to a home that fits their current lifestyle and is looking for resources, a guide who provides, more than just a move experience, please feel free to share this post and my information. I'm always just a phone call away. 

Just announced this week, what you need to know!

The home flipping tax was announced in Thursday’s 2024 budget and is set to come into effect on Jan. 1, 2025. If you purchase a home and sell it within 2 years you will be subject to a tax up to 20% of the increase in value over that time. The seller will be taxed up to 20% on profits made on a property sold within 12 months. This tax declines to 10% after 18 months.

It will not apply to land or portions of land used for non-residential purposes, and the province says certain exemptions will be allowed for life events such as “divorce, death, disability or illness, relocation for work, involuntary job loss, change in household membership, personal safety or insolvency.”

People selling their primary home within two years of purchase will also be allowed to exclude up to $20,000 when calculating their taxable income.

The tax is expected to bring in about $11 million in revenue in the first half of 2025, and then $43 for the next two full years of its implementation. The province says that money will go directly into building more affordable homes.

Starting April 1, 2024, the threshold to be eligible for the first-time homebuyers’ exemption will be increased from $500,000 to $835,000, with the first $500,000 exempt from the tax. The phase-out range for the complete elimination of the exemption will be $860,000, while properties with a fair market value under $500,000 will be completely exempt.