Selling your home can be an extremely stressful experience. Between thinking about moving logistics and financials, it’s easy to miss the small details in between the process.

With that in mind, we’ve built this checklist for selling your home to help you keep track of the things that will get a potential buyer interested. Turns out, it’s not as simple as just fluffing pillows or doing a light dusting. “Put your buyer’s hat on and walk through your home like it is the first time,” Marilou Young, an Accredited Staging Professional and an Associate Broker with Virtual Properties Realty in the metropolitan Atlanta area, told Forbes.

Below is the ultimate checklist for selling your home.

Get familiar with the paperwork

For home sellers interested in the history of the house, make sure you’ve got all the information handy; this can include paperwork on renovations, property tax receipts, deeds and transferable warranties.

Getting the price right

According to HGTV, it can be helpful to do some market research on what homes in your area are selling for- then shave 15 to 20 percent off that. This way, you attract multiple buyers who can end up outbidding each other and bringing up the price. While that can seem like a risky move, it could work in the competitive markets of big Canadian cities.

Depersonalize and declutter

You want potential buyers to see themselves in the space, which is hard to do if you have family photos on the wall or personal items around. This would be a good time to start putting items in storage or try to keep your personal items out of sight. At the same time, you’re also ensuring that you’re keeping your house tidy—a must if you want to make your home sellable. Check around the house for dirt, stains or small cracks you might be able to fix. And if you have pets, make sure their litter boxes and play areas are also clean and odour-free.

Find a qualified realtor

Realtors can be helpful to take some of the processes off your plate, including marketing your home and arranging open houses. If you do go this route, none of this list will matter if you decide to work with a realtor that doesn’t know the market inside out. You can search their name on the Real Estate Institute of Canada to ensure that they’re qualified, and meet with them to see if you mesh and understand how they price your unit. At Proptalk, we also have this handy guide for more details.

Don’t skip the home inspection

While presenting an unconditional offer may win you the home of your dreams, it can also end up costing you more than you expected. If you’re mortgaged to the max, you can’t afford surprises like repairs or replacements that you haven’t already budgeted for. Consider a Home Protection Plan that includes an 18-month warranty and up to $20,000 in warranty coverage for major household features such as foundation, roof, heating and cooling.

By my DCL Marketing Team

As the days get longer and your flowers begin to bloom, there’s no better time to transform your house into your dream home. If you want to unlock your home’s full potential, here are six renovations that can boost both your lifestyle and property value.

Kitchen Transformation

Imagine having a kitchen that not only looks beautiful but also fits your lifestyle perfectly. A kitchen transformation can elevate your home, making it a space where you love to spend time. Whether it’s adding more storage, updating your appliances, or replacing your countertops, now is the perfect time to create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of. In Canada, a mid-sized kitchen renovation typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000. An investment that enhances your daily life, as well as your home’s appeal. You deserve a space that works for you.

Roof Replacement

Over time, weather and wear can take a toll on your roof, leading to leaks and potential damage. Replacing your roof this spring restores your home’s safety, boosts its curb appeal, and improves overall efficiency. With modern materials and improved insulation, a new roof offers long-term protection from the elements while reducing the likelihood of future issues. In Canada, the cost to replace the roof on a mid-sized home ranges from $10,000 to $20,000, an investment that offers renewed security and peace of mind for years to come.

Backyard Refresh

Why not turn your backyard into a personal oasis this spring? Whether you’re adding a new deck, fresh landscaping, or an outdoor kitchen, even small changes can make a big difference. Depending on the scope of the project, a new deck may cost between$5,400-$15,000, landscaping updates typically range from, $5,000 to $15,000 and an outdoor kitchen typically starts around $10,000. Whatever your budget, a thoughtful backyard makeover can create a welcoming space to relax and enjoy meaningful moments with family and friends throughout the season.

Siding and Paint Renewal

A siding or paint renewal can really bring new life to your home’s exterior. If your paint is fading or your siding is starting to look worn, it’s not just about looks, it can also leave your home more vulnerable to the elements. Updating with fresh paint or modern siding doesn’t just protect your home but also gives it a clean, refreshed look that you’ll love coming home to. On average, the cost of siding replacement for a mid-sized home ranges from $14,000 to $30,000, depending on materials chosen. Similarly, exterior painting typically costs between $3,000 to $9,000. It’s a simple change that makes a significant difference, especially with spring right around the corner.

New Doors and Windows

Sometimes, we don’t realize how old or worn-out doors and windows can affect the look and feel of our home. Updating them can instantly brighten up your space. A new front door, which typically costs around $3,900 for supply and installation, can instantly refresh your entryway. Replacing outdated windows, with an average cost of $15,000 to $35,000, can also improve natural light and energy efficiency. It’s amazing how these simple changes can make your home feel brighter, warmer, and more welcoming.

New Air Conditioner

You might have noticed that your air conditioning unit isn’t performing as well as it used to, and it may be time to start thinking about a replacement. A modern, efficient air conditioner not only keeps your home at the perfect temperature but also ensures you can enjoy hot days without worrying about your system struggling. On average, replacing an air conditioner in a mid-sized Canadian home costs between$3,500 to $8,500, depending on the type of system and installation requirements.

Renovations can be expensive, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the long list of updates you’d like to prioritize. With the CHIP Reverse Mortgage by HomeEquity Bank, these dream projects can become a reality. If you’re 55 or older, you can unlock up to 55% of your home’s equity in tax-free cash, with no monthly mortgage payments required, giving you the funds to complete transformative renovations just in time for spring.

Contact your Dominion Lending Centres mortgage expert to learn more about how the CHIP Reverse Mortgage can help fund your renovations without affecting your savings or monthly budget.

*Please note that all the numbers listed above are estimates and have been sourced from numerous websites. These figures are approximate as they may vary depending on different factors including province, time, market conditions, as well as regulations or policies. *

By my DLC Marketing Team

Summer is coming up fast! These 5 tips will help you turn your home into the perfect staycation paradise so that you can fully enjoy the coming months:

1. Expand Your Outdoor Entertaining Area: Take your outdoor space to the next level by adding amenities for entertaining. Consider installing an outdoor kitchen or bar area complete with a grill, refrigerator, and seating area. Adding a pergola or canopy can provide shade and shelter, while outdoor speakers and a fire pit create ambiance for evening gatherings under the stars.
2. Incorporate Relaxation Zones: Create multiple relaxation zones throughout your home to cater to different activities and moods. Designate a cozy corner with plush seating and soft lighting for reading or meditation. Set up a hammock or hanging chair in the backyard for afternoon naps or stargazing. Incorporate a spa-like bathroom retreat with a luxurious bathtub, candles, and soothing music for a pampering escape.
   
3. Embrace Indoor-Outdoor Living: Maximize the connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces to blur the boundaries and create a seamless flow. Install sliding glass doors or folding patio doors to open up your living areas to the backyard, allowing for easy access and natural ventilation. Arrange indoor furniture to face outdoor views and encourage indoor-outdoor socializing.
   
4. Infuse Tropical Vibes: Bring the vacation vibes home by incorporating tropical elements into your decor. Add pops of vibrant colors, tropical patterns, and lush greenery throughout your home. Hang palm leaf or bamboo curtains, display tropical fruits in bowls, and accessorize with seashells and driftwood for a breezy, island-inspired ambiance.
   
5. Curate Outdoor Activities: Make the most of your outdoor space by curating a variety of activities to enjoy during your staycation. Set up a mini-golf course, bean bag toss, or giant Jenga for backyard games. Create a movie night under the stars with a projector and outdoor screen. Arrange a DIY spa day with facials, massages, and foot baths for a rejuvenating retreat at home.

By incorporating these additional ideas, you can transform your home into a staycation paradise that offers relaxation, entertainment, and rejuvenation all summer long.

By my DLC Marketing Team

Even in a sellers’ market, there are some ways you can improve your chances of increasing the number of offers and selling your home for the best value.

Check out these expert tips for staging your home to help make the best first impression possible:

1. Clean and Declutter: Clean, clean, and clean some more! While you might not be able to stage each room in your home, it is vital to ensure that each space is cleaned and decluttered. Especially ensure that counters, carpets, flooring, and appliances are spotless! This not only signals pride of ownership, but it helps display the potential of the spaces to buyers.
2. Depersonalize: While you’re working through and cleaning your spaces, make sure to depersonalize along the way. Ideally, any family photos, kids’ drawings, etc, should be removed or replaced with more general photography to better appeal to potential buyers.
3. Focus on Key Spaces: The primary areas in your home are your living room, kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom. If you are not able to get to each room, these are the ones you should focus on to ensure your home is represented as best as possible.
4. Consider a Fresh Coat: Did you know? According to a RE/MAX Canada Renovation Investment Report, 36% of buyers prefer a fresh coat of paint! This can go a long way to making your home look new and revitalized.
5. Boost Curb Appeal: While you’re staging your home, don’t forget about curb appeal! The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior – if not MORE important for first impressions. A good place to start would be renting a power washer to scrub down your driveway and exterior walls.
   

   By my DLC Marketing Team

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move for many reasons, and as your trusted mortgage advisor, I’ve seen how much it can benefit homeowners!

Ideally, refinancing is done at the end of your mortgage term to avoid penalties, but the timing can vary depending on your goals. For some, it’s about unlocking the equity in their home to fund renovations or cover big expenses like college tuition. For others, it’s an opportunity to consolidate debt, lower their interest rate, or change up their mortgage product.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the ways refinancing your mortgage can help!

• Get a Better Rate: As interest rates have continued to decrease with the Bank of Canada updates these past few months, now is a great time to consider refinancing for a better rate and lower overall mortgage payments!  Experts anticipate the Bank of Canada will move to have the overnight rate down to 4.0% at year-end and potentially down to 2.75% for 2025.
• Consolidate Debt: When it comes to renewal season and considering a refinance, this is a great time to review your existing debt and determine whether or not you want to consolidate it onto your mortgage. In most cases, the interest rate on your mortgage is less than you would be charged with credit card companies or other forms of financing you may have. Plus, having all your debt consolidated into a single payment can keep you on track!
• Unlock Your Home Equity: Do you have projects around the house you’ve been dying to get started on? Need funds for a large purchase such as a new vehicle or post-secondary education? When you are looking to renew your mortgage, it is a great opportunity to consider refinancing in order to take advantage of the home equity you have built up to help with these larger changes in your life!
• Change Your Mortgage Product: Are you unhappy with your existing mortgage product? If you have a variable-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage, you may be considering locking it in at the lower rates. Alternatively, you may want to switch your current fixed-rate mortgage to a variable option with the interest rates expected to continue decreasing into 2025. You can also utilize your refinance to take advantage of a different payment or amortization schedule to help pay off your mortgage faster!

PLUS! Some latest changes by the Government of Canada will make it even easier for you when it comes to your renewal and refinancing options:

• Those of you who may have an uninsured mortgage will no longer have to pass the stress test as of November 21st. This means that you have more flexibility when it comes to rates and mortgage products in renewal cases where you wish to switch lenders without adding additional funds to your mortgage!
• Beginning January 15, the federal government will allow default-insured mortgages to be refinanced to build a secondary suite. If you’ve been considering adding a suite to your property, you may be eligible to access up to 90% of your home’s equity for this purpose.

No matter your plans or situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a DLC Mortgage Expert!

By my DLC Marketing Team