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- 1/33 33
Open Sat 2PM-4PM$650,000
2 Beds2 Baths872 SqFt7506 199A ST #222, Langley, BC V4N 3L5
Condo
MLS# R2944930
Listed by Real Broker B.C. Ltd.
- 1/30 30
Open Sat 12PM-2PM$649,900
2 Beds1 Bath1,019 SqFt6157 W GREENSIDE DR, Surrey, BC V3S 5M8
Townhouse
MLS# R2944074
Listed by Real Broker B.C. Ltd.
- 1/25 25
Active$579,800
2 Beds2 Baths1,229 SqFt19830 56 AVE #406, Langley, BC V3A 0A5
Condo
MLS# R2941276
Listed by Real Broker B.C. Ltd.
- 1/40 40
Price Dropped by $10K$499,888
1 Bed1 Bath592 SqFt6430 194 ST #411, Surrey, BC V4N 6J7
Condo
MLS# R2939249
Listed by Real Broker B.C. Ltd.
- 1/29 29
Price Dropped by $29K$929,990
2 Beds2 Baths1,358 SqFt20416 PARK AVE #313, Langley, BC V3A 0N2
Condo
MLS# R2929658
Listed by Real Broker B.C. Ltd.
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BLOG: LIVING IN SURREY BC
How to Buy a New Home Before You Sell (Subject to Sale Offers)
How to Buy a New Home Before You Sell (Subject to Sale Offers)
How to Buy a Home Before You Sell: A Guide for Subject to Sale Offers If you're a current homeowner looking to make a move, one of the biggest questions you might be asking yourself is whether you should buy a new home first or sell your current one. This is a common dilemma for homeowners, and the answer is not always straightforward. The right decision depends on a number of factors, including the current real estate market, your financial situation, and your risk tolerance. In this post, we'll break down the factors you need to consider when deciding whether to buy or sell first. We’ll also introduce a third option: doing both simultaneously using a subject-to-sale offer. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer idea of which strategy works best for you. The Market Matters: Buying in an Uptrending Market vs. Selling in a Downtrending Market Typically, in a rising market, it makes more sense to buy first. Why? Because as prices rise, you’ll want to secure your new home at a lower price today rather than paying more in the future. Additionally, by the time you sell your current home, it’s likely that the market will have continued to trend upwards, meaning you’ll be able to sell at a higher price later on. On the other hand, in a downtrending market, you’ll want to sell first. This strategy ensures you get the highest possible price for your current home. After selling, you can then wait for prices to drop further, allowing you to buy a new home at a lower price. Selling first also ensures you know exactly what your budget is for your next purchase, avoiding any financial surprises. However, markets don’t always move predictably, and each homeowner's situation is unique. Let’s take a deeper look at the pros and cons of each approach. Pros and Cons of Buying First Advantages of Buying First: Flexibility: If you buy before selling, you have more flexibility in your timeline. You won’t feel rushed to find a new home after selling your current one. No Missed Opportunities: You can act immediately if your dream home hits the market. You won’t risk losing out because you’re waiting to sell. Less Pressure on Timing: If you haven’t sold yet, you can be more relaxed about finding the perfect home rather than making a rushed decision. Disadvantages of Buying First: Uncertainty in Selling: You don’t know for sure how much your current home will sell for or if it will sell quickly. This could lead to financial strain if your home doesn’t sell in time. Financial Risk: Buying first may mean carrying two mortgages at once or relying on bridge financing to cover the gap, which can be costly and stressful. Pros and Cons of Selling First Advantages of Selling First: Know Your Budget: Once your home is sold, you know exactly how much money you have to work with, making it easier to set a realistic budget for your next home. Less Financial Risk: Selling first eliminates the risk of carrying two mortgages. You won’t have to rely on bridge financing or other costly short-term solutions. Easier Negotiation: When you sell first, you can make stronger offers on new properties without needing a "subject to sale" clause, making your offer more attractive to sellers. Disadvantages of Selling First: Limited Options: If your dream home comes on the market before your current home sells, you may not be able to make an offer in time. Moving Twice: If you can’t find a new home immediately after selling, you may need to find temporary housing, which could be inconvenient and expensive. A Third Option: Buying and Selling Simultaneously with a Subject-to-Sale Offer If you’re looking to minimize the risks of buying and selling at the same time, you can consider a subject-to-sale offer. This strategy allows you to make an offer on a new home, contingent upon the sale of your current home by a certain date. Here’s how it works: Advantages of a Subject-to-Sale Offer: Align Your Timelines: A subject-to-sale offer helps you line up the sale of your current home with the purchase of your new one, reducing the chances of needing to move twice or take out bridge financing. No Rush: You can secure a new home while taking your time to sell your current property, avoiding the panic of being "homeless" in between. Disadvantages of a Subject-to-Sale Offer: Less Attractive to Sellers: Sellers may be hesitant to accept a subject-to-sale offer because it ties up their home for an extended period, with no guarantee that your home will sell. This means you may need to offer close to or even above the asking price to make your offer competitive. Bump Clause Risk: A subject-to-sale offer often comes with a bump clause, which allows the seller to accept a backup offer from another buyer. If a more attractive offer comes in, you could lose out unless you remove your subject to sale condition within 24–72 hours. Final Verdict: What’s the Best Option? While a subject-to-sale offer can work in certain situations, it does come with its own risks and challenges. In a hot market where homes are selling quickly, I often advise clients to sell first. This eliminates the stress of trying to sell a home while also managing a purchase, especially when prices are fluctuating. Selling first means you know exactly what you can spend and can make stronger offers when the right property comes along. However, in a fast-moving market where home prices are rising rapidly, you may want to buy first if you’re confident your home will sell quickly. This allows you to secure your next home before prices rise further. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal situation, the state of the market, and your comfort level with financial risk. Need More Help Deciding? Still unsure whether to buy or sell first? Let’s chat! I can provide personalized advice based on your unique situation and the current market conditions in your area. Scroll down and click the link below to book a call with me at a time that’s convenient for you. And if you found this post helpful, be sure to hit the thumbs-up button and subscribe to my blog for more real estate tips and community insights. Thanks for reading!
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Should You Buy or Sell Your Home First?
Should You Buy or Sell Your Home First?
Should You Buy or Sell Your Home First? A Guide to Making the Right Decision One of the most common questions homeowners face is whether to buy a new home first or sell their current one. This is a tricky decision, and the right answer depends on several factors, including your financial situation, the state of the real estate market, and your personal risk tolerance. In this blog post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both buying and selling first, so you can make an informed decision that suits your needs. Common Concerns: The Fears of Buying or Selling First Most people fear selling first because they worry about being unable to find a new home before they must vacate their current one. No one wants to face the possibility of being left homeless or having to rush into a purchase out of desperation. On the flip side, the concern with buying first is that you may not be able to sell your current home as quickly or for the price you expect. This could leave you financially stretched, paying two mortgages at once or relying on bridge financing to cover the gap. Both scenarios carry risks, but the best choice for you depends on your specific situation. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each. Reasons to Buy First 1. Lock in a Low Interest RateIn today’s market, interest rates are at historic lows, but they may not stay that way. If you buy first, you can lock in your mortgage rate for 90–120 days. This gives you the advantage of securing lower monthly payments for the long term. However, keep in mind that you need to complete the purchase within that timeframe to benefit from the locked rate. 2. Financial FlexibilityBuying before you sell gives you more flexibility with your finances. While it comes with the risk of having to carry two mortgages or use bridge financing, if you can comfortably afford it, this might be the right move. It also allows you to take your time selling your current home. 3. Quick Sale of Your Current HomeIf you know your current home is in high demand and will sell quickly, buying first can minimize the risk of being stuck with two homes. In a hot real estate market, you can reasonably expect your property to sell fast. 4. Competitive Market for Your Dream HomeIf the type of home you want to buy is in high demand with limited inventory, you might need to act fast. Waiting to sell your home first could mean missing out on your ideal property. Buying first ensures you have a place lined up, even if you have to compete in a multiple-offer situation. 5. More Options to Choose FromIf you’re a selective buyer who needs a wide range of options, buying first might be better. It allows you to take your time finding the perfect home without the pressure of needing to move out immediately. 6. Planning RenovationsIf you plan on making significant renovations to your new home, buying first gives you the option to complete those renovations before moving in. This prevents you from living through the disruption of construction and ensures you move into a fully finished home. Reasons to Sell First 1. Clear Timeline for Your MoveWhen you sell first, you know the exact dates for your sale’s completion and possession, giving you a solid timeline for when you need to buy and move into your next home. This can reduce the stress of lining up dates and help you avoid the need for bridge financing. 2. Set BudgetSelling first means you know exactly how much money you’ll have for your new purchase. Instead of estimating how much your home will sell for, you can confidently budget for your new home, eliminating the risk of overspending. 3. Backup Living PlansIf you sell first and haven’t found a new home, having a backup plan for temporary living arrangements—whether with family, friends, or a short-term rental—can ease the pressure. Knowing you have a place to stay gives you peace of mind during the transition. 4. High Demand for Your Current Home, Low Competition for Your Next OneIf your current home is in high demand but the type of property you’re looking to buy isn’t, selling first may be the way to go. You can sell your home quickly and for top dollar, then take your time buying in a market with more inventory and less competition. 5. Avoid the Financial Burden of Two MortgagesSelling first means you avoid the financial stress of managing two mortgages simultaneously. If your financial situation or risk tolerance isn’t strong enough to support the possibility of carrying two mortgages, selling first is a safer bet. In Conclusion: Buy or Sell First? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The right choice depends on the current market, your financial situation, and how much risk you’re willing to take on. In today’s hot seller’s market, it might make more sense for most people to buy before selling, as home prices are rising rapidly and inventory is limited. However, if the market cools and it becomes more of a buyer’s market, selling first could make more sense. You’d be able to secure a higher price for your current home while having more options and less competition when buying your next one. If you’re still unsure about which option is best for you, I’m here to help! Reach out to me for a personal consultation where we can discuss your specific situation, and I’ll help you make the best decision.
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Langley BC Neighbourhoods Guide: Where to Live in Langley
Langley BC Neighbourhoods Guide: Where to Live in Langley
Exploring the Communities of Langley BC (A Map Tour) Are you curious about Langley, BC, and its diverse neighborhoods? Whether you’re a current resident, considering moving to the area, or simply want to learn more about the city’s layout, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll take a tour across Langley’s communities, giving you an overview of what each area has to offer. 1. Understanding Langley's Location Langley is situated to the east of Surrey and the west of Abbotsford in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland. It lies on the south side of the Fraser River and is bordered to the south by the United States. Langley is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, with the most common route being Highway 1 over the Port Mann Bridge. Before we dive into the neighborhoods, it’s important to note that Langley is divided into two sections: Langley City and the Township of Langley. Although they are technically separate municipalities, most locals refer to the entire area as Langley. Let’s now explore each community within this unique city. 2. Communities of Langley Walnut Grove Located in the northern part of Langley, Walnut Grove is a family-friendly community known for its large selection of detached homes. You’ll also find a smaller number of townhomes and condos, although many townhomes in this area are age-restricted. Walnut Grove is home to the Langley Colossus, one of the largest movie theaters in Canada, making it a hub for local entertainment. Fort Langley Often called the “historic heart” of Langley, Fort Langley resembles Vancouver’s Gastown with its charming heritage buildings and village atmosphere. It’s one of the most well-preserved areas, protected from extensive development, making it a premium location for those seeking a quaint and scenic lifestyle. This protection does come at a price, though, as property values in Fort Langley tend to be higher. County Line and Glen Valley For those who crave a quieter, more rural lifestyle, County Line and Glen Valley offer large acreages and equestrian properties. This area is ideal for those who prefer a slower pace and more space. However, shopping and amenities are limited, making it better suited for individuals looking for seclusion and peace. Salmon River Similar to County Line, Salmon River is known for its spacious properties and large lots. Here, you’ll find a variety of farms, workshops, and rural homes. If you want a country feel but with slightly more accessibility to the city, this might be a great option for you. Aldergrove Many people mistakenly believe Aldergrove is its own town, but it’s actually part of the Township of Langley. Aldergrove is a smaller, historic community that has been evolving and developing in recent years. While it’s not the most bustling part of Langley, it’s an area that’s growing in popularity as new developments emerge. Otter District and Campbell Valley The Otter District and Campbell Valley are reminiscent of Salmon River and County Line in terms of their large properties and rural landscapes. These communities are perfect for those who prioritize privacy and space. Campbell Valley also boasts some industrial parks, though it’s not a major shopping hub. The proximity to the U.S. border makes it convenient for frequent travelers. Brookswood Brookswood is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Langley, combining large lot sizes with more affordable detached homes. Although there aren’t currently any townhomes or condos in this area, there are plans for future developments. If you’re looking for a suburban neighborhood with a friendly atmosphere and great schools, Brookswood might be perfect for you. Murrayville Murrayville is one of Langley’s older communities and is known for its more traditional homes and age-restricted townhomes. It’s a quieter area, perfect for retirees or those seeking a close-knit community feel. Many of the homes here feature ranch-style designs, with main-floor master bedrooms. Langley City As the downtown core, Langley City is the most central area for shopping, dining, and entertainment. While it has a bustling atmosphere, it also deals with some challenges like higher crime rates and homelessness in specific neighborhoods. However, it’s one of the more affordable parts of Langley and offers a variety of housing options, including condos, townhomes, and detached homes. Excitingly, a SkyTrain extension is set to connect Langley City to Surrey and Vancouver, which will only increase its appeal as a residential hub. Willoughby Heights Willoughby Heights is Langley’s fastest-growing area, with a tremendous amount of development over the past decade. The community offers a mix of townhomes, condos, and single-family homes, making it popular for young families and professionals. As the northern parts of Willoughby develop, Carvolth is emerging as a major transportation hub for the region. 3. What Langley's Communities Have to Offer Langley’s neighborhoods cater to a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a suburban family setting, a historic village feel, or rural tranquility, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick recap of what each area is best known for: Walnut Grove: Family-friendly, entertainment hub, detached homes Fort Langley: Historic charm, high property values County Line/Glen Valley: Acreages, equestrian properties, rural lifestyle Salmon River: Larger lots, rural homes, farms Aldergrove: Small town feel, growing development Otter District/Campbell Valley: Rural, private, close to the U.S. border Brookswood: Suburban, large lots, affordable homes Murrayville: Older, quieter community, age-restricted townhomes Langley City: Downtown hub, affordable housing, future SkyTrain access Willoughby Heights: Rapid development, diverse housing options, transportation hub Final Thoughts Langley offers a diverse range of communities, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re interested in the suburban charm of Brookswood, the historic feel of Fort Langley, or the fast-growing excitement of Willoughby Heights, Langley has something for everyone. As a growing city with new developments and improvements like the upcoming SkyTrain extension, Langley continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees alike. If you’re thinking about moving to Langley or just want to learn more about its neighborhoods, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help you explore your options and find the community that’s right for you.
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REVIEWS
Mykita & Taylor Bauer
First Time Home Buyer
It was such a pleasure to work with Alex for the purchase of our very first home. He was extremely honest, upfront, and was able to find us the perfect home that fit right in our price range. He was always very prompt to answer any questions we had and made the entire process so much easier. I would definitely recommend Alex to all of my friends and family. Thank you!
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