FAQ

Seller FAQs

I’m considering selling my property – what should I do?
Even if you’re not 100% sure that you’ll be selling, it’s good to have a source of information to help you make your final decision. We can help you look at the market activity in your area and compare your property against those with similar characteristics, evaluate the market value of your home, and make suggestions to help put your home in the best light for potential buyers. We can talk about the listing process and the time/energy involved so you can decide the best course of action.

Why do I need a REALTOR® to sell my property?
Choosing to list your property with an experienced REALTOR® is a smart idea if you wish to sell your property for more and in less time. Using a realtor gives your property more exposure and gets it viewed by more potential buyers who are interested in your type of property.
Consider the amount of time and energy involved with putting a property on the market, getting it seen by the right people, showing the home, and working out the details. Hiring a REALTOR® to represent your interests saves you time and ensures you get the most for your listing and can protect you from exposure by having professionals handle all the details.

When is the best time to sell my property?
The majority of single family homes (41%) are sold between March and June each year. Keep in mind, though, this also means during the same time that there are more properties on the market and more competition for business. Selling your home outside of this busy season means that you might have more genuine interest in your property. However, it all comes down to when/if you need to sell – we’re ready when you are.

Do I need to sell my current property before purchasing?
This situation is unique to each person and depends on a few factors:

1. Can you afford the payments on two properties if the first one doesn’t sell as soon as expected? You might want to talk to your bank about bridge financing.
2. What’s the housing market like? If homes are selling quickly in your area, it might not be a concern. However, if the market is slow, you might want to ensure your home sells before buying.
3. How comfortable are you with the potential of owning two properties? Balancing two homes can be stressful. However, so can selling your home before you have a new home to move into, requiring you to find temporary accommodation.

Ultimately, it’s up to you, but a REALTOR® can help by assessing the market and providing insight on how fast your property might sell so you can decide whether it’s a good idea to sell before you buy.

How should I prepare my property for sale?
Here are a few tips to give your home the best chance for a sale, and get the most for your property:

1. Make sure your home shows its best face. Besides being clean, it should smell clean too.
2. Remove all clutter from floors, shelves, and closets.
3. Straighten bookcases and dust thoroughly.
4. Consider repainting rooms that have bold paint colors. Off-white, tan, grey, and beige are the best choices.
5. Consider removing some photos from the walls if they are overcrowded. Don’t forget to cover any holes and paint.
6. Ensure beds are made, and the bathrooms are spotless.
7. Curb appeal is important – keep the grass mowed and consider planting seasonal flowers. The same goes for the backyard and any patio areas.
8. Remove all outside clutter and consider storing extra vehicles, trailers, and other items off site.

Your REALTOR® can help by taking a look at your property and make specific recommendations to help you put your home’s best face forward.
What does a market evaluation cost?

There is no charge related to having a market evaluation completed on your property. An experienced REALTOR® will view your home, look at data for the surrounding area, and suggest a price for your home. After that, it’s entirely up to you whether you want to sell your home at the suggested price, or higher/lower.

Buyer FAQs

Why do I need a REALTOR® to buy a property?
Buying a home is one of the most important transactions you will make in your lifetime, having someone in your corner ensures that your interests are represented. Your REALTOR® is professionally trained in all aspects of the real estate process, as well as having local knowledge about neighborhoods, schools, local bylaws, as well as having a professional network of lawyers, assessors, notaries, etc., to help keep the home-buying process runs running smoothly.

What does it cost to use a REALTOR® for buying a property?
There are no additional costs associated with using a REALTOR® to purchase property – as these costs are borne by the seller and are included in the selling price of the property. Using the skills and experience of a REALTOR® can help to save you money by negotiating on your behalf. Additionally, they can help ensure the home-buying runs smoothly to save you time and ensure there are no bumps in the road.

What is the process for buying a property in the Kelowna area?
The first step, after contacting us, is to determine just what type of property you are looking for. We will then search our database for properties that meet your requirements and put together a list for your review. We can then schedule a viewing for any properties that catch your eye, or find out further information. As new properties come on the market each week, we will update your list, so you have the opportunity to get the first look at properties as they arrive on the market.

In the meantime, we can provide information on neighborhoods and local market activity, so you have the most current information available to select the property that suits your lifestyle. Once you settle on a property, we will put together an Offer and communicate with the Seller’s REALTOR® any conditions to the sale. We will work with you throughout the purchase process to ensure a smooth transaction – from the property search through to you taking ownership.

What’s the best way to begin a house search?
Compiling the following information about what type of property you are looking for can help narrow down your search for a home:

• Type of residence (house, townhouse, condo, etc.)
• Square footage
• Preferred number of bedrooms/bathrooms
• Preferred neighborhood(s)
• Yard or property size
• Other preferences (pool, view, proximity to schools, etc.)
• Approximate price

Primarily, besides the type and size of the property, the most important factor is the neighbourhood you want to live in. If you can, drive around the Kelowna area to review the various neighbourhoods, or visit Kelowna neighbourhoods for descriptions.

What locations does Dave Domeij and Associates cover?
We can help you purchase property throughout the Kelowna area, including West Kelowna, South Kelowna, and Glenmore. Additionally, we help with your property transactions in nearby Lake Country, Fintry, Peachland, and Big White Mountain. Whether you’re looking for a lakefront property, a cozy mountaintop chalet, or a comfortable family residence, we can help you find it.