Selling your home isn’t just about putting a sign on the lawn and waiting for offers. Especially in Spruce Grove’s competitive market, the right preparation before you list can mean the difference between a quick, top-dollar sale and weeks of frustration.

Here are five key things to do before listing your home — steps I walk my clients through during our free, no-pressure Seller Strategy Session.

1. Get a Realistic Home Value Estimate

Before anything else, it’s important to know what your home is worth in today’s market — not based on guesswork or an outdated online estimate. A detailed market evaluation will show what buyers are actually paying for homes like yours right now in Spruce Grove.

💡 I offer this as a free service, with no obligation.

2. Tackle the Small Stuff That Makes a Big Impact

Buyers notice everything. Fixing minor issues like leaky faucets, loose door handles, or scuffed walls can improve your home's perceived value. I’ll even provide a personalized checklist and a free staging consultation to help your home shine.

3. Choose Your Timing Wisely

Timing can influence your sale price and your stress levels. While spring is traditionally hot, other times of year can work just as well depending on your goals, your neighbourhood, and current inventory. We’ll build your strategy around your ideal timeline.

4. Avoid the Price-High-Then-Chase-Down Trap

Overpricing is the #1 mistake I see. It sounds tempting to “test the market,” but it often leads to price reductions and wasted time. I’ll give you honest, data-backed advice so you can attract the right buyers from day one.

5. Plan Your Next Move Now

Selling is just one side of the equation. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or relocating, I’ll help you line up your next home so the transition is smooth and stress-free.

📍 Ready to Talk Strategy?

If you’re even thinking about selling your Spruce Grove home in the next 6-12 months, I’d love to offer you a free Seller Strategy Session. There’s no pressure, no commitment — just expert advice tailored to your goals.

👉 Book a free Seller Strategy Session now

If you're considering renovating your Edmonton home, adding a secondary suite can be a smart move. It not only enhances your living space but also opens up opportunities for rental income. Before you dive into the renovation adventure, let's break down some key aspects.

Costs

Renovation costs can vary, but it's essential to budget for both the construction and potential hidden expenses. On average, expect to invest $50,000+, but this can go up depending on the extent of the changes needed.

Permits

Edmonton has specific regulations for secondary suites. Before you start knocking down walls, check with the city to ensure you're compliant. Permits are required, covering safety and zoning regulations. It's a crucial step to avoid issues down the road. You can visit the official City of Edmonton - Secondary Suites page, with information on permits, guidelines and regulations for suites in Edmonton.

Things to be Aware of

Consider the existing layout of your home and how the addition will impact it. Plumbing and electrical systems might need adjustments. Also, think about the logistics of creating a separate entrance for the suite.

Potential Pitfalls

Renovations can uncover surprises. Be prepared for unexpected challenges, like outdated wiring or plumbing issues. Having a contingency fund will help you navigate these bumps in the road without derailing your project.

Benefits

Adding a secondary suite comes with perks. Beyond extra income from renting it out, it can increase your property value. The additional living space can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

Other Considerations

Think about the type of tenant you want to attract and design the suite accordingly. Also, keep in mind that managing a rental property comes with responsibilities, so be ready to take on the role of a landlord.

In a nutshell, renovating to add a secondary suite in Edmonton can be a game-changer. Just be sure to do your homework, secure the necessary permits, and have a realistic budget in place. It's an investment that can pay off both now and in the future.

Here are a couple more resources that may help:

Alberta - Secondary suites - Building codes

RenovationFind - What is Needed to Build a Legal Secondary Suite in Edmonton

Happy renovating!
Jason

Owning a home is not just a financial investment; it's an investment in your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Regular home maintenance is the key to preserving these qualities and ensuring your home remains a haven for you and your family. Let's delve into why home maintenance is crucial and how it can benefit you in the long run.

1. Savings Through Proactive Care

Think of home maintenance as a proactive measure rather than a chore. By addressing minor issues promptly, you prevent them from snowballing into major, wallet-draining problems. For instance, fixing a minor leak might seem insignificant, but it can prevent extensive water damage and mold issues down the line.

2. Boosting Your Home's Value

A well-maintained home is a valuable one. If you ever decide to sell, regular upkeep enhances your property's appeal to potential buyers. Plus, it saves you from last-minute, costly repairs during the selling process, making your home a more attractive prospect in the real estate market.

3. Enhancing Your Quality of Life

Your home is your sanctuary, and its condition significantly impacts your daily life. Properly maintained homes are not just aesthetically pleasing; they also contribute to your well-being. Imagine a home where the HVAC system operates efficiently, ensuring a comfortable temperature year-round. It's not just about luxury; it's about creating a stress-free environment for you and your family.

4. Ensuring Your Family's Safety

Safety should always be a top priority. Regular home maintenance allows you to identify potential hazards before they escalate. Simple tasks like checking smoke detectors or verifying the integrity of your electrical system can prevent accidents and keep your loved ones secure.

In conclusion, home maintenance is the foundation of a secure, comfortable, and valuable living space. It's never too late to start a regular maintenance routine, whether you're a new homeowner or have cherished your home for years. By investing time and effort into your home today, you're ensuring a better tomorrow for you and your family.

Here's to a well-maintained and happy home!

Warm regards,

Jason

(NC) Renovations can be a daunting task. If your goal is to increase your property value, smaller upgrades can provide a higher return on your investment.

Here are some budget-friendly projects for key areas of your home that can boost your property value:

Kitchen. You don’t need a complete remodel to increase the value of this space – it can be as simple as focusing on one thing, such as cabinets or countertops. Refacing old cabinets by adding a fresh coat of paint, a new finish or updated knobs can bring new life to your kitchen. Adding new granite countertops is an easy way to modernize an older kitchen. Make sure to choose a countertop that fits with the price point and aesthetic of your home.

Bathroom. The bathroom is where most of us begin and end our day; modernizing it is a great way to increase your property value. New floors or shower tiles will give the illusion of a complete makeover. Updating the vanity, sink or mirror are also inexpensive options. Smaller bathroom projects like these can have high appeal to future buyers.

Windows. These are often overlooked in renovations. However, upgrading windows is a great idea for both aesthetic and energy-saving purposes. In cooler climates you can purchase windows with insulating properties, and in warmer climates you can purchase those that reflect sunlight.

Deciding on the right budget to suit your needs can be hard, but worrying about the financing shouldn’t hold you back. For an easy way to finance these renos, check out The Home Depot Project Loan, available across Canada.

A healthy lawn free of insects and weeds helps improve the curb appeal of a home for sale. In fact, it can increase the resale value by as much as 11 per cent. It's also good for the environment. A healthy lawn produces a cooling effect similar to providing air conditioning for two average-sized homes.

www.newscanada.com