Wes Smith RE/MAX Ocean Pointe : Latest Blog Posts

Open House. OPEN HOUSE: 3 - 5 PM

Sun, 20 May 2012 04:05:47 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 3204 UPLANDS DRIVE in NANAIMO.

OPEN HOUSE: 3 - 5 PM

Amazing value can be found in this renovated Departure Bay area home. This bright and sunny house includes original hard wood floors, a spacious living room with feature fireplace, new thermal windows, a newer metal roof, updated bathrooms, 2 massive decks, a large rec room with additional fireplace, and semi-detached workshop. Absolutely stunning private yard includes spaces for summer entertaining: a sizeable two-level deck, central patio area perfect for barbeques, a separate covered deck attached to a multi-lockered detached storage shed, lots of mature fruit trees, and gated access to park your large toys if you want. Lots of room for parking (and RV's and boats) on side of house or at front semi-circled driveway. Could be suited. Located within easy walking distance to both Wellington High School and Rock City Elementary School. Easy access to major bus routes. No HST. Make an appointment to view today!

May Long Weekend Open Houses!

Fri, 18 May 2012 21:33:00 GMT

Lots of open houses this weekend! Come on out and visit us! Click FULL STORY for full list!

SATURDAY, MAY 18th

10:30 AM -12 PM

529 Asteria Place, NANAIMO - 2 BDRM/ 2 BATH + GARAGE Townhouse just of downtown. $229,900.

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24873514

11 AM - 2 PM

609 Taylor Crescent, LADYSMITH - 3 BDRM/ 2 BATH + DOUBLE GARAGE rancher on cul-de-sac. $369,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-23201914

1 PM - 2:30 PM

5 Durham Street, NANAIMO - 2 BDRM + DEN + "MANCAVE" + FULL UNFINISHED BASEMENT. $269.900.

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24761344

3 PM - 5 PM

209 4TH Street, NANAIMO - 5 BDRM + 3 BATH + GARAGE + 1/3 ACRE LOT HALF DUPLEX. JUST RENOVATED. $324,900.

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24816779

SUNDAY, MAY 19th

10:30 AM -12 PM

95 Princess Street, NANAIMO - 2 BDRM + 1 BATH + 2 bonus rooms + LIVING RM + FAMILY RM. Renovated. $259,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24426264

11:30 AM - 2 PM

212 Cilaire Drive, NANAIMO 3 BDRM + 3 BDRM Departure Bay renovated home $389,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-22190783

1 PM - 2:30 PM

1240 Okanagan Place, NANAIMO 4 BDRM + 3 BATH home in College Heights with views. Great Price! $359,900.

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24744814

3:15 PM - 5 PM

3204 Uplands Drive, NANAIMO 4 BDRM + 2 BATH renovated home near Departure Bay. Amazing private yard. $339,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24664114

MONDAY, MAY 20th

10:30 AM -12 PM

529 Asteria Place, NANAIMO - 2 BDRM/ 2 BATH + GARAGE Townhouse just of downtown. $229,900.

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24873514

11:30 AM - 2 PM

898 Townsite Road, NANAIMO 2 BDRM starter house near hospital area. Renovated. $214,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24426184

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

6342 Savary Street, NANAIMO 2 BDRM + 2 BATH + DOUBLE GARAGE rancher townhome. Renovated. Adult Community. $329,900

http://wessmith.ca/mylistings.html/details-24697524

New property listed in Z4 Upper Lantzville, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Fri, 18 May 2012 04:06:06 GMT

I have listed a new property at 7777 SUPERIOR ROAD in LANTZVILLE.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 South Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Fri, 18 May 2012 04:06:06 GMT

I have listed a new property at 529 ASTERIA PLACE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 University District, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 16 May 2012 04:04:45 GMT

I have listed a new property at 209 4TH STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Central Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 16 May 2012 04:04:45 GMT

I have listed a new property at 24 571 BRADLEY STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

Park-view townhouses in this complex are hard to come by. This unit is one of the best! Perfectly positioned between a break in the trees, this bright and sunny unit features a direct view of the stream below as well as a large private patio and grassy area. Other points to note include: a large semi-detached garage with loft storage; your own gas furnace; a feature gas fireplace; renovated and updated interior; a large master bedroom with ensuite and his 'n her closets; an oversized living room; a kitchen pass-through that could double as a breakfast bar. Listed at an outstanding price (try to find any other strata property in Nanaimo with this much room, quality, and with a private garage at this price!). Pets OK. Adult oriented. Reasonable strata fees. 2 private parking spaces (incl garage). Lots of guest parking. A few blocks to walk to the sea wall, the yacht club, or Bowen Park. Easy walking distance to downtown.

New property listed in Z5 Parksville, Zone 5 - Parksville/Qualicum

Tue, 15 May 2012 04:06:19 GMT

I have listed a new property at 149 WELD STREET in PARKSVILLE.

See details here

New property listed in Z5 Parksville, Zone 5 - Parksville/Qualicum

Tue, 15 May 2012 04:06:18 GMT

I have listed a new property at 149 WELD STREET in PARKSVILLE.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Chase River, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Sat, 12 May 2012 04:04:48 GMT

I have listed a new property at 1 61 12TH STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Lower Lantzville, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Sat, 12 May 2012 04:04:48 GMT

I have listed a new property at 5 6990 DICKINSON ROAD in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 University District, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Sat, 12 May 2012 04:04:48 GMT

I have listed a new property at 5 DURHAM STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 South Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:07:36 GMT

I have listed a new property at 816 SHORT AVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 University District, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:07:36 GMT

I have listed a new property at 1240 OKANAGAN PLACE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Central Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Thu, 10 May 2012 04:05:02 GMT

I have listed a new property at 4105 997 BOWEN ROAD in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 North Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:05:36 GMT

I have listed a new property at 6342 SAVARY STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 South Jingle Pot, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:05:36 GMT

I have listed a new property at 2012 CATHERS DRIVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 University District, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:05:36 GMT

I have listed a new property at 79 HOWARD AVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Uplands, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Tue, 08 May 2012 04:05:26 GMT

I have listed a new property at 3204 UPLANDS DRIVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Cedar, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Sat, 05 May 2012 04:05:20 GMT

I have listed a new property at 11 1347 FIELDING ROAD in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 South Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 04:05:24 GMT

I have listed a new property at 1295 ISLAND HWY in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 Central Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:04:58 GMT

I have listed a new property at 898 TOWNSITE ROAD in NANAIMO.

See details here

No HST! Looking for a cottage in the city? Or perhaps a starter home? This reasonably priced home would also make a great alternative to buying a similarly priced condo. This fully renovated home features modern color and trim, a recently renovated bathroom with soaker tub, a bright open kitchen with lots of storage space, two bedrooms with closets, and a comfy living room. A large deck at the front of the house is perfect for sunny summer morning coffee. Walking distance to the hospital, bus routes, shopping, parks, the sea wall, cafes, and much more. Financing available with down payment. Make an appointment to view today!

New property listed in Z4 South Nanaimo, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:04:58 GMT

I have listed a new property at 95 PRINCESS STREET in NANAIMO.

See details here

New property listed in Z4 University District, Zone 4 - Nanaimo

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:05:06 GMT

I have listed a new property at 198 BIRD SANCTUARY DRIVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

Open House. OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, April 7th from 1pm to 4pm!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:04:03 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 2231 TARN PLACE in DUNCAN.

See details here

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, April 7th from 1pm to 4pm!

No HST !!! FIrst time on the market! Gorgeous estate home just outside the city! This custom-built home has everything! Situated on a large lot on a quiet cul-de-sac within a minute's walk to the lake, this home is packed with features! The main level includes a gourmet kitchen with new granite tile countertops, a top-end Jen Air range and oven, a large breakfast bar, a massive pantry, built in computer desk, and a sizeable nook; a sunken living room for entertaining with coved ceiling and gas fireplace; a family sized dining room for special occasions; a spectacular entrance and grand staircase; a den; and a massive master bedroom with his n' her closets and a 5 piece deluxe ensuite. Upstairs includes a study; a library area; 2 oversized bedrooms; plenty of cleverly hidden storage closets; and a media/games room (which could be converted back to 2 more bedrooms). Lots of room or RVs and boats.This is a spectacular once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Open House. OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, April 7th from 12pm to 2pm!

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 04:04:10 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 212 CILAIRE DRIVE in NANAIMO.

See details here

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, April 7th from 12pm to 2pm!

NO HST! This totally renovated home is located in the desirable Cilaire neighbourhood just off of Departure Bay. Updates include: totally new kitchen with brand new cabinets and solid granite counter tops; 3 all-new bathrooms, expanded Master Bedroom; new windows, new light fixtures, new hardwood flooring and carpet; some new exterior siding. Shows like new! Other features include a massive rear deck accessible from the Master Bedroom; a well manicured rear yard with fruit trees; a massive crawl space with easy access for storage; a newer gas furnace; newer roof; RV and boat parking. Newly paved road in front of house (est April 2011) thanks to the City. Walking distance to school, Departure Bay Beach, shopping at Brooks Landing, and bus routes. Perfect home for retirees or young families. This home is move-in ready. Make an appointment today!

Open House. OPEN HOUSE: Friday, April 6th from 1:30-3:30!

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 04:04:10 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 1188 STUART PLACE in LADYSMITH.

See details here

OPEN HOUSE: Friday, April 6th from 1:30-3:30!

No HST!!!! No strata fees!!! Perfect for young families or first time home buyers. This recently renovated half-duplex features high-end laminate and tiled floors, a new kitchen, newer windows, new carpet on stairs (with a new railing), new rear balcony, newer appliances, new lighting fixtures, and much more. Lots of storage. Fireplace in living room makes for comfy living. Includes window coverings. Fully fenced yard. New roof Jan 2012. Walking distance to schools. A short drive or bike ride to downtown Ladysmith. 10 - 15 minutes to BC Ferries or the airport. 15 - 20 minutes to Nanaimo. 25 minutes to Duncan! On a cul-de-sac. Lots of parking available. Low taxes. Why rent when you can own this property for 30% less? Ownership from $870/month with 5% down! Special financing available! Make an appointment to view today! **NOT in the Ladysmith area? No problem - call us and we can set up a live video tour/showing via Skype or Facetime on your computer, ipad, or smart phone.

NEW Tourism Nanaimo Video

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:51:00 GMT

This is a brand new video from tourism Nanaimo. This gives a pretty good feel of what it is like to live in Nanaimo - especially during the summer months.

There is also a downloadable PDF booklet about Nanaimo - which is great!

http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/55014

New NANAIMO Tourism Guide (PDF)

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:32:00 GMT

The new 2012 Nanaimo Tourism Guide is available for download as a PDF. It is also available in print form at local tourist attractions, BC Ferries, restaurants, hotels, etc.

This year's guide is a HUGE improvement over what has been published in previous years. In my opinion, this new booklet perfectly captures the what Nanaimo is really like.

If you have friends thinking about relocating into this area (or visiting this area), please use the Facebook, Google+, or Twitter links to send them a copy.

PDF file can be found HERE

What Does "Sold" Smell Like?

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:32:00 GMT

By Shannon and Tamara Stone

We just finished the REMAX office tour where we went and previewed a lot of new listings this morning.

I was inspired to write about the importance of smell in the sale of a home. In life, whether you are meeting a person for the first time, or a home, so much depends on that first impression.

When a home smells clean it gives you the sense that it’s well taken care of and inviting. When a home has cooking, pet or other odors it can be a major turn off.

Some of the properties we viewed this morning smelled wonderful: like fresh bread or lemony clean… and then there were a few that smelled… well… NOT FRESH.

In this hyper-competitive market, buyers have many different options to choose from. If your home is for sale, make sure it smells great!

Here are some tips:

1) Keep a package of ready-to-bake croissants or cookies in your fridge and pop them in the oven 30 mins before you have a showing.

2) A small dish of vinegar does an incredible job of absorbing odors – tuck one where it won’t be seen.

3) Avoid the highly scented plug-in air fresheners as they are often overpowering and tend to cause the buyer to wonder what you are covering up.

4) Our Dad taught us a great trick: drop a few drops of vanilla extract onto your stove burner and turn it on low for a few minutes – smells just like fresh baking.

Happy Selling (and smelling)!

Mortgage War Means Good News For Homeowners

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:30:00 GMT

Good news! The mortgage wars are back. Bad news! The mortgage wars are back. It all depends on your perspective.

If you’re an aspiring homeowner or you want to refinance to pay off back-breaking credit card debt, thelatest battle of the banks for market share is a terrific opportunity.

If you’re Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, it’s a slap in the face. You’re the most influential financial person in the country and you’ve been spending a lot of time during the past two years warning Canadians about the dangers of their ever-increasing debt levels. And what is the banking oligarchy doing in response? Thumbing their collective noses at you by encouraging people to take on even more debt!

The latest cat fight for mortgage market share couldn’t have come at a better time for prospective borrowers. The spring housing season is just starting to heat up and prices stubbornly continue at record highs despite alarm bells that the bubble could burst any time soon. In this climate, any break on mortgage rates that makes your dream home more affordable is welcome.

The mortgage market is a Wild West show right now. The banks are aggressively undercutting one another to build their business before the low-interest window closes. Bank of Montreal kicked off the latest round of rate-cutting by offering a five-year closed mortgage at 2.99 per cent and an even more eye-popping 10-year rate of 3.99 per cent.

Royal Bank has countered with an “all the frills” four-year fixed rate of 2.99 per cent with amortizations up to 30 years. That translates into a monthly payment of $1,260 on a $300,000 loan. By comparison, at 5 per cent the monthly carrying cost would be just over $1,600. Royal even offers to pay the switching costs if you move your business from another financial institution. Talk about dog-eat-dog!

Most other banks are offering similar deals just to stay in the game. For the moment, this is a true buyer’s market for borrowers but it may not last long. Some of the deals have fixed termination dates (e.g. March 28 for BMO’s 10-year 3.99 per cent rate). Others could be pulled at any time.

Meanwhile, in Ottawa, Carney must be seething. The last thing he wants to see is Canadians jacking up their household debt to income ratios even more. But short of intervening directly in the private sector, which he would be reluctant to do except under extreme circumstances, his hands are pretty much tied.

He’d love to raise the key overnight target rate from its current level of 1 per cent but for the moment he’s a prisoner of the domestic economy and international forces. The recovery is still fragile and the high loonie continues to hurt our export markets. Still, you can bet he’ll make a move at the first possible opportunity.

Do you remember in high school when your English teacher would make you parse lines from Shakespeare? That’s what economists do when the Bank of Canada issues its interest rate statements. They dissect every line, looking for clues that indicate any subtle shifts in position that might suggest a move up or down in the near future. They found several such clues in the March 8 announcement that the overnight rate would remain unchanged for now.

“The heightened uncertainty around the global economic outlook has decreased in the weeks since the Bank released its January Monetary Policy Report (MPR),” the statement said. “With tentative signs of stabilization in European bank funding and sovereign debt markets, conditions in global financial markets have improved and risk aversion has decreased.”

Reduced global uncertainty. Signs of stability in Europe. Global financial markets looking better. Less risk aversion. Hmm.

The statement went on: “Canadian household spending is expected to remain high relative to GDP as households add to their debt burden, which remains the biggest domestic risk.”

It doesn’t take an economist to read between the lines here. With the global economy improving and household debt “the biggest domestic risk” interest rate increases are on the way sooner rather than later.

The U.S. Federal Reserve Board’s pledge to hold its rates at record lows until 2014 is a problem because it means a Canadian rate increase will probably push the loonie even higher. But Carney may be prepared to live with that to try to shake the country out of its debt spiral.

So if you are thinking about borrowing money, my advice is to act now. The window may be closing faster than you think. And here’s another tip. Take the longest low-rate option you can find. You may not see anything like it again in your lifetime.

Gordon Pape is editor and publisher of the Internet Wealth Builder newsletter. His website iswww.BuildingWealth.ca