I. Where can I access the latest listings? 
II. How do I short-list potential neighbourhoods?
III. Feature selection: Wants vs. Needs 
IV. Should I sell my current home before I buy?

I. Where can I access the latest listings? 
The Internet has dramatically changed the way people access information in all industries, and Real Estate is no exception. The Calgary Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) database is built and maintained by Realtors® and their cooperative association, the Calgary Real Estate Board. A limited version of this database is available to the public at MLS.ca, but when you work with a Buyer’s Agent you’ll receive the complete property information to help you make an informed decision (See Multiple Listing Service® vs. MLS.ca).

In a competitive Seller’s Market (more demand than supply of homes for sale) a Buyer can’t afford to rely on newspaper ads or lawn signs to find listings. In May 2006 in Calgary, a single family home was on the market for an average of 18 days (compared to May 2005 average of 36 days). A full 25% of these listings actually sell in less than 14 days, and desirable which are correctly priced properties often sell in two to three days with multiple offers. 

When you have an agreement with me to become your Buyer’s Agent, I will email you the listings which meet your requirements as soon as they are entered in the database by my fellow Real Estate Agents. In addition to being timely, an emailed report has the advantage of showing photographs in colour and large amounts of space for property description and specifications. No more classified newspaper code… 2BR, FP, DW, WD! 
Information on becoming a Client.     

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II. How do I short-list potential neighbourhoods?
Some buyers have a specific community where they wish to begin their search. This is often due to the proximity of relatives, aging parents or within the boundaries of desirable schools. Other buyers will have more flexibility in their choice of location, and I can save them time by helping refine their search parameters. 

As part of your VIP Buyer Consultation, I’ll work with you choose potential neighbourhoods based on the following criteria:

1. Commute time to work
2. Location of family and friends
3. Access to amenities
4. Recreation and leisure opportunities
5. Age of homes in the area
6. Neighbourhood demographics

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III. Feature selection: Wants vs. Needs
The more your Buyer's Agent knows about what you want, the easier it will be for him or her to find it. 

View the Home Finding Needs Worksheet here 

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IV. Should I sell my current home before I buy?
In a market where prices are increasing rapidly and there is a low supply of listings, it is often advisable to purchase a home before selling. A personal consultation with me will help determine which strategy will best meet the needs of you and your family. Often the option of bridge financing will allow you to secure a new home within your budget while your current home has continued to increase in value.

Conversely, if your market conditions don’t point to a quick sale, sellers may be wise to get an unconditional offer on their home before making an offer to purchase. Again, as your Real Estate Agent, I will present you with all the information you need to make an educated decision for your personal situation.

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Step 3: What is Buyer Agency?   GO