Are you planning to sell your property in Halifax, Nova Scotia this spring? If so, you might have some questions about the process. In this blog post, we'll address some frequently asked questions by sellers.

1. What is the best time of the year to sell a property in Halifax?

Traditionally, in the spring and fall months (March to July 1 and September to December), August is traditionally a slow month to sell a property in Halifax. During these months, the weather is favorable, and people are more likely to go out and view properties. However, the Halifax real estate market has been busy throughout the year, with many buyers looking for properties year-round.

2. Do I need to get my property inspected before listing it?

No, it's not mandatory to get a home inspection before listing your property for sale, but it's always a good idea. A home inspection will help you identify any issues with your property that you may not have known about. This can save you time and money in the long run, as buyers are likely to request an inspection before purchasing the property.

3. How do I determine the right asking price for my property?

Pricing your property correctly is crucial to selling it quickly and for the best price possible. You can work with a real estate agent to determine the right asking price for your property. They will analyze the current market conditions, similar properties in the area, and any unique features of your property to come up with a price range that is realistic and competitive.

4. What documents do I need to sell my property?

As a seller, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Property deed
• Location Certificate (if available)
• Most Recent Tax Bill
• Any warranties for appliances or systems included in the sale
• Disclosure statement outlining any known issues with the property - this document is known as a Property Disclosure statement.
• Heating Costs and NSP Costs
• A copy of any Lease Agreements
• Well and Septic Certificate (if available)
• Shared Well or Shared Driveway Agreement
• Easements or Restrictive Covenants
• Condo Documents (if the property is a condo)
• Any receipts for upgrades - Details of any recent upgrades
• Building permit and final occupancy permit (if available)
• Copies of any leased equipment that is to be assumed by the buyers 

5. What costs should I expect to pay when selling my property?

As a seller, you will be responsible for paying the following costs:

• Real estate agent commission (usually around 5% of the sale price)
• Legal fees (usually around $1,500 - $2,000)
• Any outstanding mortgage balance or liens on the property
• Any mortgage penalties.

6. How long does it take to sell a property in Halifax?

The time it takes to sell a property in Halifax can vary depending on factors such as location, condition of the property, and current market conditions. On average, properties in Halifax sell within 30-60 days of being listed on the market.

Selling a property can be a complex process, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and successful transaction. If you have any further questions about selling your property in Halifax, it's always best to consult with a local real estate professional.

How often will we communicate?
 
Communication is key to an easy and successful sale. I will keep you appraised of events every step of the way. You are welcome to reach out to me with questions or concerns. When we go over the listing information, we will discuss our preferred means of communication and schedules to make sure we know each other’s availability and boundaries.

Thinking of selling? I'm here to help! Shoot me a message or give me a call today.

Buying a home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be costly. In addition to the purchase price of the property, buyers in Nova Scotia should be aware of the closing costs associated with the transaction. Closing costs are expenses incurred by the buyer in order to finalize the sale and transfer ownership of the property.

In Nova Scotia, the typical closing costs associated with a home purchase include:

1. Legal Fees and Disbursements: Legal fees are typically the largest closing cost associated with buying a home in Nova Scotia. The buyer will need to hire a lawyer or notary public to review the legal documents related to the sale and to handle the transfer of ownership. Legal fees typically range from $1000 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

2. Deed Transfer Tax: In Nova Scotia, buyers are required to pay a deed transfer tax on the purchase of a home. The tax is calculated based on the purchase price of the property and ranges from 1% to 1.5%. For example, if the purchase price of the home is $300,000, the property transfer tax would be $3,000 to $4,500.

3. Title Insurance: Title insurance is an optional closing cost that provides protection to the buyer in the event of any defects in the title or ownership of the property. The cost of title insurance in Nova Scotia ranges from $200 to $500.

4. Home Inspection: While not a mandatory closing cost, a home inspection is highly recommended for buyers in Nova Scotia. A home inspection can identify any issues with the property that may not be visible during a regular walk-through. The cost of a home inspection varies depending on the size and location of the property but typically ranges from $450 to $750.

5. Mortgage Insurance: If the buyer is putting less than 20% down on the purchase price of the home, they may be required to pay for mortgage insurance. The cost of mortgage insurance varies depending on the size of the down payment and the purchase price of the property.

In addition to these closing costs, buyers should also be aware of ongoing expenses such as property taxes, home insurance, and utilities. It is important to factor in these costs when determining the overall affordability of a home. Overall, closing costs can add up quickly, and it is important for buyers in Nova Scotia to budget accordingly. By understanding the typical closing costs associated with a home purchase, buyers can avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth transaction.

1. Halifax is reputed to have one of the highest number of bars per capita of any Canadian city! Which means we are FUN!

2. Halifax has a rich and varied history, from its role as a major port city in the days of British colonial rule, to its importance as a military and naval center in both world wars.

3. With its stunning harbor and coastal views, Halifax offers a picturesque and scenic living environment.

4. Friendly people: Haligonians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making it a great place to live and build relationships.

5. Halifax has a strong and growing economy with a diverse mix of industries, including finance, technology, and tourism.

6. With SIX universities located in the city, Halifax offers a great education system for students of all ages.

7. From taxis to buses, there is no shortage of ways to get around in Halifax. However, the Halifax  Ferry is certainly a unique way. This harbour ferry service has been connecting the city of Halifax to neighbouring Dartmouth for 269 years.

8. The Halifax Waterfront is a bustling hotspot in the city. With one of the world's longest urban boardwalks spanning the length of the waterfront for 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), from Pier 21 at the Halifax Seaport to Casino Nova Scotia, it is easy to spend a day exploring here.

9. Affordable housing: Compared to other cities in Canada, housing in Halifax is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking for a good standard of living.

10. Natural beauty: With its proximity to nature reserves, parks, and hiking trails, Halifax offers easy access to some of Canada's most beautiful natural landscapes.

The residential property flipping rule announced in the federal budget 2022 to ensure profits from flipping properties are fully taxed, any person who sells a residential property they have held for less than 12 months would be fully taxed on their profits as business income. Exemptions will apply if the sale is for certain reasons, such as a death, disability, the birth of a child, a new job, or separation. The measure would apply in respect of residential properties sold on or after January 1, 2023.

Property flipping involves purchasing real estate with the intention of reselling the property in a short period of time to realize a profit. Profits from flipping properties are fully taxable as business income, meaning they are not eligible for the 50 percent capital gains inclusion rate or the Principal Residence Exemption.

The Government is concerned that certain individuals engaged in flipping residential real estate are not properly reporting their profits as business income. Instead, these individuals may be improperly reporting their profits as capital gains and, in some cases, claiming the Principal Residence Exemption.

For a complete federal budget, please visit: https://budget.gc.ca/2022/report-rapport/toc-tdm-en.html

There's a chance you may have noticed already, but let me make it official: I've made the move to Royal LePage Atlantic! Being part of the premiere brokerage in the HRM, with nearly 30% current market share, and part of a nation-wide network that is 100% CANADIAN OWNED, will allow me to better serve YOU, my amazing clients! My journey through Real Estate has been a long and winding one, but I'm finally here, and I couldn't be more thankful.

Oh, and stay tuned - more amazing news to come!

#royallepagecanada #royallepageatlantic #Sold #JustSold #HalifaxRealEstate #HalifaxRealtor #HomesInHalifax #HomesInHalifax #HouseAndHome #ExploreNovaScotia #halifaxnoisehomes
#hrmrealestate #halifaxnoiseathome #novascotiarealestate #eastcoastliving #halifaxhomes #halifaxrealestate #halifaxrealtor #halifaxnoise #haligonia #myhalifax
☎️(902) 452-9675
sandra@sellingmetro.com
or PM me.

Can I be real for a second? I’ve shown A LOT of homes, and can I just say that one of the BEST, BEST, BEST things you can do as a seller is oh-so-simply but incredibly underrated. It's this:

Clean. Yep. Clean. You'd be shocked at the number of homes I show that simply aren’t clean. So, if you’re getting your home ready for the market and stressing about showings, my biggest piece of advice is this: Do a top-to-bottom deep clean of your house before it hits the market. Even if you have to hire it out, do it. It's worth every penny!

After cleaning, here are a few other things to keep in mind as you prepare for a showing... 

It’s become quite the trend to transform a dull and drab piece of property you own into a luxurious, aesthetically pleasing home you can rent out for cash each month.

But the truth is, I've seen flips go amazingly well, AND I've seen them crash and burn. Bad. So, before you jump on the bandwagon, here are a few things to know about home flipping. You should know:

- Have a seriously healthy stash of cash solely earmarked for flipping the property. A good place to start is the 70% rule. (Google it, just do it).
- Have margin in your calendar each week to work on your flip. Seriously, it's not gonna flip itself.
- Ask family, friends, and coworkers for references to help build a list of skilled and reputable contractors. Then, call them early and pay them well.
- Be patient. Flipping houses ain't a walk in the park. You'll need lots of patience when things don't go as planned.
- Talk with a realtor who knows your neighborhood. Ask his or her advice on the projects with the highest ROI and the demands of today's buyer or renter.

Wanna talk about flipping properties or anything else real estate related? Reach out anytime!

#newhome #HalifaxRealEstate #Halihomes #FirstTimeBuyers #flippinghouses #flips #halifaxrealtor #halifaxrealestate #novascotiarealtor #realestateinvesting #realestateagent #buyertips #sellertips #MLS #halihomes #movetoHalifax
☎️(902) 452-9675

sandra@sellingmetro.com

or PM me.

Are you planning to sell your property in Halifax, Nova Scotia this spring? If so, you might have some questions about the process. In this blog post, we'll address some frequently asked questions by sellers.

1. What is the best time of the year to sell a property in Halifax?

Traditionally, in the spring and fall months (March to July 1 and September to December), August is traditionally a slow month to sell a property in Halifax. During these months, the weather is favorable, and people are more likely to go out and view properties. However, the Halifax real estate market has been busy throughout the year, with many buyers looking for properties year-round.

2. Do I need to get my property inspected before listing it?

No, it's not mandatory to get a home inspection before listing your property for sale, but it's always a good idea. A home inspection will help you identify any issues with your property that you may not have known about. This can save you time and money in the long run, as buyers are likely to request an inspection before purchasing the property.

3. How do I determine the right asking price for my property?

Pricing your property correctly is crucial to selling it quickly and for the best price possible. You can work with a real estate agent to determine the right asking price for your property. They will analyze the current market conditions, similar properties in the area, and any unique features of your property to come up with a price range that is realistic and competitive.

4. What documents do I need to sell my property?

As a seller, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Property deed
• Location Certificate (if available)
• Most Recent Tax Bill
• Any warranties for appliances or systems included in the sale
• Disclosure statement outlining any known issues with the property - this document is known as a Property Disclosure statement.
• Heating Costs and NSP Costs
• A copy of any Lease Agreements
• Well and Septic Certificate (if available)
• Shared Well or Shared Driveway Agreement
• Easements or Restrictive Covenants
• Condo Documents (if the property is a condo)
• Any receipts for upgrades - Details of any recent upgrades
• Building permit and final occupancy permit (if available)
• Copies of any leased equipment that is to be assumed by the buyers 

5. What costs should I expect to pay when selling my property?

As a seller, you will be responsible for paying the following costs:

• Real estate agent commission (usually around 5% of the sale price)
• Legal fees (usually around $1,500 - $2,000)
• Any outstanding mortgage balance or liens on the property
• Any mortgage penalties.

6. How long does it take to sell a property in Halifax?

The time it takes to sell a property in Halifax can vary depending on factors such as location, condition of the property, and current market conditions. On average, properties in Halifax sell within 30-60 days of being listed on the market.

Selling a property can be a complex process, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and successful transaction. If you have any further questions about selling your property in Halifax, it's always best to consult with a local real estate professional.

How often will we communicate?
 
Communication is key to an easy and successful sale. I will keep you appraised of events every step of the way. You are welcome to reach out to me with questions or concerns. When we go over the listing information, we will discuss our preferred means of communication and schedules to make sure we know each other’s availability and boundaries.

Thinking of selling? I'm here to help! Shoot me a message or give me a call today.

Buying a home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be costly. In addition to the purchase price of the property, buyers in Nova Scotia should be aware of the closing costs associated with the transaction. Closing costs are expenses incurred by the buyer in order to finalize the sale and transfer ownership of the property.

In Nova Scotia, the typical closing costs associated with a home purchase include:

1. Legal Fees and Disbursements: Legal fees are typically the largest closing cost associated with buying a home in Nova Scotia. The buyer will need to hire a lawyer or notary public to review the legal documents related to the sale and to handle the transfer of ownership. Legal fees typically range from $1000 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

2. Deed Transfer Tax: In Nova Scotia, buyers are required to pay a deed transfer tax on the purchase of a home. The tax is calculated based on the purchase price of the property and ranges from 1% to 1.5%. For example, if the purchase price of the home is $300,000, the property transfer tax would be $3,000 to $4,500.

3. Title Insurance: Title insurance is an optional closing cost that provides protection to the buyer in the event of any defects in the title or ownership of the property. The cost of title insurance in Nova Scotia ranges from $200 to $500.

4. Home Inspection: While not a mandatory closing cost, a home inspection is highly recommended for buyers in Nova Scotia. A home inspection can identify any issues with the property that may not be visible during a regular walk-through. The cost of a home inspection varies depending on the size and location of the property but typically ranges from $450 to $750.

5. Mortgage Insurance: If the buyer is putting less than 20% down on the purchase price of the home, they may be required to pay for mortgage insurance. The cost of mortgage insurance varies depending on the size of the down payment and the purchase price of the property.

In addition to these closing costs, buyers should also be aware of ongoing expenses such as property taxes, home insurance, and utilities. It is important to factor in these costs when determining the overall affordability of a home. Overall, closing costs can add up quickly, and it is important for buyers in Nova Scotia to budget accordingly. By understanding the typical closing costs associated with a home purchase, buyers can avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth transaction.

1. Halifax is reputed to have one of the highest number of bars per capita of any Canadian city! Which means we are FUN!

2. Halifax has a rich and varied history, from its role as a major port city in the days of British colonial rule, to its importance as a military and naval center in both world wars.

3. With its stunning harbor and coastal views, Halifax offers a picturesque and scenic living environment.

4. Friendly people: Haligonians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making it a great place to live and build relationships.

5. Halifax has a strong and growing economy with a diverse mix of industries, including finance, technology, and tourism.

6. With SIX universities located in the city, Halifax offers a great education system for students of all ages.

7. From taxis to buses, there is no shortage of ways to get around in Halifax. However, the Halifax  Ferry is certainly a unique way. This harbour ferry service has been connecting the city of Halifax to neighbouring Dartmouth for 269 years.

8. The Halifax Waterfront is a bustling hotspot in the city. With one of the world's longest urban boardwalks spanning the length of the waterfront for 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), from Pier 21 at the Halifax Seaport to Casino Nova Scotia, it is easy to spend a day exploring here.

9. Affordable housing: Compared to other cities in Canada, housing in Halifax is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking for a good standard of living.

10. Natural beauty: With its proximity to nature reserves, parks, and hiking trails, Halifax offers easy access to some of Canada's most beautiful natural landscapes.

The residential property flipping rule announced in the federal budget 2022 to ensure profits from flipping properties are fully taxed, any person who sells a residential property they have held for less than 12 months would be fully taxed on their profits as business income. Exemptions will apply if the sale is for certain reasons, such as a death, disability, the birth of a child, a new job, or separation. The measure would apply in respect of residential properties sold on or after January 1, 2023.

Property flipping involves purchasing real estate with the intention of reselling the property in a short period of time to realize a profit. Profits from flipping properties are fully taxable as business income, meaning they are not eligible for the 50 percent capital gains inclusion rate or the Principal Residence Exemption.

The Government is concerned that certain individuals engaged in flipping residential real estate are not properly reporting their profits as business income. Instead, these individuals may be improperly reporting their profits as capital gains and, in some cases, claiming the Principal Residence Exemption.

For a complete federal budget, please visit: https://budget.gc.ca/2022/report-rapport/toc-tdm-en.html

There's a chance you may have noticed already, but let me make it official: I've made the move to Royal LePage Atlantic! Being part of the premiere brokerage in the HRM, with nearly 30% current market share, and part of a nation-wide network that is 100% CANADIAN OWNED, will allow me to better serve YOU, my amazing clients! My journey through Real Estate has been a long and winding one, but I'm finally here, and I couldn't be more thankful.

Oh, and stay tuned - more amazing news to come!

#royallepagecanada #royallepageatlantic #Sold #JustSold #HalifaxRealEstate #HalifaxRealtor #HomesInHalifax #HomesInHalifax #HouseAndHome #ExploreNovaScotia #halifaxnoisehomes
#hrmrealestate #halifaxnoiseathome #novascotiarealestate #eastcoastliving #halifaxhomes #halifaxrealestate #halifaxrealtor #halifaxnoise #haligonia #myhalifax
☎️(902) 452-9675
sandra@sellingmetro.com
or PM me.

Can I be real for a second? I’ve shown A LOT of homes, and can I just say that one of the BEST, BEST, BEST things you can do as a seller is oh-so-simply but incredibly underrated. It's this:

Clean. Yep. Clean. You'd be shocked at the number of homes I show that simply aren’t clean. So, if you’re getting your home ready for the market and stressing about showings, my biggest piece of advice is this: Do a top-to-bottom deep clean of your house before it hits the market. Even if you have to hire it out, do it. It's worth every penny!

After cleaning, here are a few other things to keep in mind as you prepare for a showing... 

It’s become quite the trend to transform a dull and drab piece of property you own into a luxurious, aesthetically pleasing home you can rent out for cash each month.

But the truth is, I've seen flips go amazingly well, AND I've seen them crash and burn. Bad. So, before you jump on the bandwagon, here are a few things to know about home flipping. You should know:

- Have a seriously healthy stash of cash solely earmarked for flipping the property. A good place to start is the 70% rule. (Google it, just do it).
- Have margin in your calendar each week to work on your flip. Seriously, it's not gonna flip itself.
- Ask family, friends, and coworkers for references to help build a list of skilled and reputable contractors. Then, call them early and pay them well.
- Be patient. Flipping houses ain't a walk in the park. You'll need lots of patience when things don't go as planned.
- Talk with a realtor who knows your neighborhood. Ask his or her advice on the projects with the highest ROI and the demands of today's buyer or renter.

Wanna talk about flipping properties or anything else real estate related? Reach out anytime!

#newhome #HalifaxRealEstate #Halihomes #FirstTimeBuyers #flippinghouses #flips #halifaxrealtor #halifaxrealestate #novascotiarealtor #realestateinvesting #realestateagent #buyertips #sellertips #MLS #halihomes #movetoHalifax
☎️(902) 452-9675

sandra@sellingmetro.com

or PM me.