Investing

Investing

With Calgary’s growing population, housing demand, and updated zoning bylaws, many homeowners are looking to turn their basements into legal rental suites—and for good reason. A secondary suite can provide extra monthly income, boost your property value, and help address the city’s affordable housing shortage.

But before you start hanging drywall and picking paint colors, it’s essential to understand what this all entails. Here are some of the details, but as always, be sure to consult a lawyer before you declare yourself a "legal" basement suite landlord!

  1. Know the rules. In Calgary, a secondary suite refers to a self-contained living space within your home, such as a basement, that includes a separate entrance, a full kitchen and…

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When it comes to buying an investment property, timing can make all the difference. While many investors focus on the spring or summer markets, fall presents a unique opportunity for savvy buyers to capitalize on several advantages. Here are key reasons why fall is an ideal time to purchase an investment property.

  1. Motivated Sellers: Sellers with homes still on the market in the fall are often more motivated to close a deal before the holiday season or winter. This urgency may translate into price reductions or incentives like covering closing costs. Investors can leverage this motivation to secure a better deal and potentially acquire a property below market value.
  2. Less Competition: By fall, many homebuyers have already completed their…

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Everyone loves a vacation home! And investing in one can be an enticing and lucrative venture. Passive income and landing pad for vacations? What a great combination. However, like any real estate investment, success requires careful planning and consideration of potential pitfalls. Here is the inside scoop: 

TIPS TO TRY:

  •  Research the Location: Choose a location with high demand for vacation rentals. Consider proximity to popular attractions, accessibility, and the overall appeal of the destination to ensure a steady influx of potential guests. While you may love vacationing in the area, would other people? If your goal is to use this as a rental property for others, it needs to be somewhere that is desirable without your own personal…

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House flipping is the art of buying a property, renovating it, and selling it for a profit. It is an enticing venture for many real estate enthusiasts, but it is not a fool-proof investment strategy. To maximize your returns and minimize risks, it's crucial to steer clear of common mistakes that can plague novice and seasoned flippers alike. Here are some tips for aspiring house flippers:

  • Make sure you keep location in mind, not just the property itself. Steer clear of a cheaper property in a bad area, because "you can invest all the money in the world into making a home spectacular, but if the house is in an undesirable location, you’ll have a tough time finding a buyer. Remember, you never want to have the most expensive home on the block"…

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The classic saying "location, location, location" is a classic for a reason. The importance of location cannot be overstated; it profoundly influences the value, demand, and potential return on investment of a property. Understanding the role of location in real estate investment is crucial for making informed and profitable decisions in the market. 

So, why is location so important? Here are the top 5 reasons:

  1. Property Value: Location significantly impacts a property's value. Desirable locations—such as those with proximity to amenities, good schools, public transport, and low crime rates—tend to command higher property prices. Conversely, less favorable locations might result in lower property values, impacting potential profits for…

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In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the way families choose to live together in Calgary, Alberta homes. Multigenerational living, where several generations of a family reside under one roof, is becoming increasingly popular. This shift is reshaping the real estate market, as homebuyers seek properties that can comfortably accommodate the needs and preferences of multiple generations. 

Multigenerational living is a departure from the traditional nuclear family model, where parents and children live separately from grandparents or other extended family members. Today, various factors are driving this trend:

  1. Economic Factors: Rising housing costs, student loan debt, and the desire to save money on childcare and elder care have…

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In the world of real estate investment, the mantra "location, location, location" holds a timeless truth. The significance of location cannot be overstated, as it stands as one of the most crucial factors that can determine the success or failure of a real estate investment. The importance of location goes beyond mere geography – it encompasses various aspects that influence the property's value, rental potential, and overall investment returns.

First and foremost, the location of a property directly impacts its value. Properties situated in desirable neighborhoods with good infrastructure, access to amenities, and proximity to schools, parks, shopping centers, and transportation hubs tend to command higher prices. A prime location can lead to…

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When envisioning a comfortable retirement, most people picture serene moments spent by the beach, pursuing hobbies, or exploring new destinations. Yet, achieving such a retirement requires meticulous planning and strategic investment. While traditional retirement accounts are vital components, one often underestimated asset class that can play a significant role is real estate.

Real estate offers a unique blend of stability, diversification, and income potential that makes it a powerful tool in retirement planning. Here's why incorporating real estate into your retirement strategy could be a game-changer:

  1. Appreciation and Equity Growth: Real estate properties tend to appreciate over time, building equity that can contribute to your…

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The process of buying or selling a home can be both exciting and overwhelming. A professional and reliable agent can streamline the process, provide invaluable guidance, and ensure you make informed decisions.  In this blog, we'll discuss the essential factors to consider when selecting a real estate agent to ensure a successful and stress-free real estate journey; and, why partnering with Ken Richter as your real estate agent gives you the advantage! 

  1. Experience and Expertise: One of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent is their experience and expertise in the local market. An experienced agent will have a deep understanding of the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and market conditions in the area you are…

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In the world of investment opportunities, few options can match the long-term financial benefits and stability offered by rental properties. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer looking to make your money work for you, investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture. Here are some of the advantages of owning a rental property: 

  1. Steady Stream of Income: One of the most enticing benefits of investing in rental properties is the opportunity to generate a steady stream of income. By leasing out your property to tenants, you can enjoy a monthly rental income that can supplement your primary earnings or even replace them over time. But be warned: It's not passive income. Being a landlord can be a lot of work,…

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