Jessica Diskant - 604-261-9311

Real Estate Prices dropping as listings rise in Vancouver

Jessica Diskant — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:54:00 GMT

For the first time in nearly 10 years, we are seeing price reductions on all types of residential properties in the Vancouver area.

The benchmark price in Greater Vancouver dipped 2.1 per cent since the end of May, 2008, to $556,605 as of July. We are seeing a decline in the total active listings on the market which is partially the cause of the change in market conditions. The price reductions reflect a general softening of the housing market.

Greater Vancouver housing values still remain the highest in Canada. On the West Side of Vancouver, the average detached house now sells for $1.3 million which is up 5.3 per cent from a year ago.

East Vancouver has the lowert priced condos in the city with a benchmark price of $326,324, up 7.2% from a year earlier. The West Side benchmark price for a condo apartment is no $482,080 which is up a modest 3.5 per cent from last year.

These are good times to consider buying investment properties and holding.

Jessica Diskant, Park Georgia Realty, 604-999-4770

Vancouver Eastside Home and Investment Property

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 22:28:00 GMT

Exclusive listing - this is a spacious 5 bedroom home. Downstairs suite has 3 bedrooms but has flexibility in how you want to use the rooms. You can make it a smaller suite and use a bedroom to go with the upstairs. New ktichen, hardwood floors, fresh and bright. Downstairs rents for $1200 which is great for the eastside. Tenants are willing to stay. Property is in quiet Renfrew Heights. This house is in great condition with many renovations.

Contact me for viewing please. Jessica Diskant 604-999-4770 Park Georgia Realty

Tranquil Westside Vancouver Condominium

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 01:19:00 GMT

If you are interested in a peaceful setting and are interested in purchasing a condominium in the price of $650-$700,000, I've got a lovely property available.
This spacious 2 bedroom condo overlooks Van Dusen Gardens and the lagoon. Enjoy birdwatching or simply the beauty of nature. This is a rare find in the city of Vancouver. Bright and cheerful.

Please see my website for more information. Jessica Diskant, June 18, 2008

New Name for MLS.ca

Jessica Diskant — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:15:00 GMT

On June 30th, 2008 the public www.mls.ca web site will officially change its name to www.realtor.CA. The existing site, mls,ca w/ill continue to operate after June 30, 2008, allowing you, the consumer to use either the new site and its interactive mapping technology or the old site with the existing mapping. This new site is suppose to have improved search capabilities.

The introduction of interactive mapping is the major design change for this web site. The mapping, provided using Microsoft Virtual Earth technology, will show active listings right on the map, refining the display as you can zoom into an area. This will make is more convenient to search neighbourhoods or a specific region.

The new layout of this web site will make it easier to look for properties and information according to the Canadian Real Estate Association.

Jessica Diskant, Realtor, Park Georgia Realty Ltd., 604-999-4770

The Best Option for First Time Buyers

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:18:00 GMT

Condominiums continue to offer strong opportunities in 2008 to first-time buyers looking for affordable and accessible housing in urban centres like Vancouver, says data released by Genworth Financial Canada. Genworth's Winter 2008 Metropolitan Condominium Outlook concluded that while condo sales numbers are down from near record levels in eight cities surveyed, resale prices should continue to advance in 2008 and grow steadily through 2012. With this information in mind, condominiums remain a very solid opportunity for a first-time buyers.

If you are a first time buyer it is important that the professionals you work with explain everything to you thoroughly, from your lender, realtor , to your lawyer or notary, home inspector, etc. No question is foolish. Keep that in mind when you are looking at purchasing a property.

Jessica Diskant, Park Georgia Realty, Vancouver, 604-999-4770

Purchasing Condos for the First Time?

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:18:00 GMT

Jessica Diskant, Park Georgia Realty, Vancouver, 604-999-4770

GREEN CLEANING HOME CONCOCTIONS

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:56:00 GMT

Recipes For Green Cleaning

Here are some ideas for cleaning with products you probably have at home. This is especially great for people with environmental allergies or sensitivities to chemicals.

For wood furniture: mix white vinegar and olive oil in equial parts and use a soft rag to polish.

For ovens: apply a paste made from one cup of baking soda and water to oven survaces and let it sit overnight. Scrub with a scouring pad.

For windows and mirrors: Spray a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar onto the surface and wipe with balled up newspaper.

For tubs and sinks: sprinkle with baking soda and wipe down with a damp rag. Add some Castile soap to the rag for greater cleaning power.

For a clogged drain: pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, follwed by a half a cup of venegar. Wait a few minutes, then pour down some boiling water.

Besides using these recipes for your home,your own health and the health of your family, you will be contributing to polluting the environment much less.When buying commerical cleaning products look for non-aerosol products whose ingredient lists are plant-based rather than chemical-based and whose packaging is reduced or reusable.

If you know of anyone who has immune deficiencies or health problems, please refer them to this blog.

Best, Jessica Diskant

FIRST-TIME BUYERS STILL SEARCHING FOR HOMES AND CONDOMINIUMS

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 22:55:00 GMT

According to an article in the Vancouver Sun today in the Business section first time buyers are still looking to purchase a property.

Last year at this time we were looking at many more multiple offers on one property. The market still continues to be strong and healthy but there are less multiple offers and it is becomming a more balanced market. Many people are looking at purchasing a smaller property or having a longer mortgage, even buying in a neighborhood that they hadn't considered because there is still confidence in the market. It has been estimated that 35% of home sales in Greater Vancouver involve a first-time buyers.

The Bank of Canada is being aggressive about keeping tighter credit conditions so that the U.S. recession does not influence our economy. Although the real estate market is not in a frenzy like last spring, it is still solid.

Real Estate Market Predictions, British Columbia and Canada

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 19:58:00 GMT

"What remains the greatest source of weakness in today's U.S. economy is a continued source of strength in Canada," says Warren Lovely of CIBC World Markets in a recent report. "While the U.S. housing market is mired in deep recession, Canada's own housing market has demonstrated extraordinary resilience."

This week the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) predicted that national home sales will rise to 8.1 per cent in 2007, setting an all-time sales record. Prices are also expected to go up by a whopping 10.4 per cent in 2007, with another 5.5 per cent increase in 2008.

"Resale housing activity was a juggernaut in the second quarter of 2007," says CREA's chief economist Gregory Klump. "Record breaking sales activity in the first and second quarters forced CREA to revise its forecast upward."

Prices are forecast to increase by 17.4 per cent in Saskatchewan, 11.2 per cent in Manitoba, 9.9 per cent in B.C., 9.2 per cent in Nova Scotia, and 8.6 per cent in Ontario this year.

The CMHC forecast says that in 2008, sales will slow and the number of new listings will rise, leading to a more balanced market across the country. It says job growth will slow and won't stimulate housing demand as much as in previous years. CMHC also predicts that mortgage rates and carrying costs will rise, which will ease housing demand from first-time buyers.

New Condos Coming In Vancouver's West End, Called 02!

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:43:00 GMT

02 will be a small condominium building that will be built on Davie Street in the West End. It's within one block of the beach. Anyone who loves being near the ocean, will love this location. Their fantastic tag line is "Sea and Be Seen."

The project is getting it's marketing off the ground for this 20 unit condominium building. Since there has been little development in that area, these units will sell very quickly.

Realtors are usually invited to preview the develoment prior to sales being offered to you, the public. Feel free to contact me if you would like to look at this new development when it is available to the public.

Jessica Diskant
www.homesvan.com
604-261-9311

KITSILANO OPEN HOUSE July 22, 2007

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:45:00 GMT

Come view this lovely large 1 bedroom that is south facing. This apartment is in great condition and allows two cats and a small dog. ( for those of you that have pets) The strata council has been pro-active and has carefully maintained the building.

The complex is called Connaught Gardens and the address is #306 2121 West 6th, Vancouver. The Open House will take place July 22, 2007 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For more details, please view my website, www. homesvan.com or call me at 604--261-9311.

Hope to see you there.

Jessica Diskant
Realtor
Royal Lepage Westside

JUNE RESIDENTIAL SALES SECOND HIGHEST IN THE BOARD'S HISTORY

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 21:20:00 GMT

Vancouver, B.C., July 3, 2007

"Housing sales in Greater Vancouver continue to be higher than historical norms. Combine strong demand with a healthy number of listings active throughout the Greater Vancouver area, and you have a good market for both buyers and sellers, says REBGV president Brian Naphtali."

Sales of attached properties increased by 3.2 percent in June 2007 to 775 sales, compared to 751 sales in June 2006. The benchmark price of an attached unit is $443,060, up 10.1 percent from a year ago.

According to Multiple Listings Service data, sales of apartment properties increased by 16% to 1,846 sales in June 2007 compared to 1,591 sales in June 2006 The benchmark price of an apartment property in Greater Vancouver, calculated by the MLSLink Housing Price Index, is $360,469, up 10.9% from one year ago.

For more info, see my website www.homesvan.com or call me at 604-261-9311.

Jessica Diskant
Realtor, Royallepage

Interest Rates

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 21:16:00 GMT

There is word today that there could be a very small interest hike tomorrow for mortgages in Canada. If you are looking to purchase property and have not been pre-qualified, you might want to call your mortgage broker or financial institution today.

When you are borrowing funds, make sure you fully understand what kind of loan you are getting. Your lender should explain if there are penalities of any sort, the difference between fixed rates and variable rates and all the various factors of the loan.

If you need recommendations for excellent mortgage brokers, please call me at 604-261-9311. It is a wise decision to choose someone who has access to a large variety of loan packages.

If you have not committed to a realtor and would like assistance in purchasing property, please feel free to call me. I also offer free market evaluations of property, so if you are thinking of selling, feel free to contact me as well.

Jessica Diskant
Royal Lepage Westside
604-261-9311

CANADA PLACE FIREWORKS

Jessica Diskant — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 18:33:00 GMT

If you enjoy fireworks, Canada Place will be allowing up to 5000 people for a two barge show that starts at 10:30pm. Admission is $10.00 and is provided by Burrard Inlet Fireworks

Jessica Diskant
Realtor, Royal Lepage Westside

How to Pay Property Taxes

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 17:19:00 GMT

Property taxes are due the first week of July. The exact date may vary depending on the municipality. Check the due date on the tax notice. Make sure you complete the Home Owner Grant application on the reverse side of the tax statement.

Property Taxes can be paid:

In person at the municipal finance department's front counter. Payment options include credit card, direct debit, cheque, certified cheque or cash. Check the web site or tax notice for more information about the accepted methods of payment.

By drop off in the municipal drop box, often located near the main doors.

By mail to the correct city hall address (check the web site) and in time so that taxes are received by the date due. The postmark will not be considered if payment arrives late.

At the bank or credit union that accepts tax payments. Make sure there is no delay in processing payments. You can also use your own account at your bank or credit union to pay online or by phone.

Through monthly prepayment . Municipalities typically allow home owners to prepay part of all of their taxes. Interest is credited to the tax account on a monthly basis. When prepaying, home owners must apply for the Home Owner Grant when they receive the tax notice.

On www.epost.ca, a free online Canada Post service. Sign up and receive a secure electronic mailbox. When you pay taxes online and you apply online for the Home Owner Grant, you receive a receipt with a confirmation number.

Through your mortgage if you have pre-arranged to do this with your mortgage provider. You must claim your Home Owner Grant separately.

If you pay electronically, by phone or by monthly prepayment, remember to mail or drop off you Home Owner Grant application separately to your city hall.

You may reach me through Royal Lepage Westside at 604-263-0064 if you would like any questions answered with regard to your real estate needs.

NO BUBBLE BURST IN SIGHT!

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 30 May 2007 14:47:00 GMT

According to the National News last night, we are in a booming real estate market throughout Canada.

The average growth rate in British Columbia over the last 5 years has been 11%. The benchmark price of the average home in Vancouver is now $564,000, including all areas of Vancouver.

There is discussion that the Banks will be having a small interest rate hike any moment now. If you are shopping to buy property, make the effort to get pre-qualified and locked into a good rate for 90 days. Also, negotiate the posted rates. Many people think that they cannot negotiate the posted rates, but you are the consumer. Shop around and compare rates before committing to your loan and ask your for Realtor for their opinion.

The current real estate market and prediction for the next 2 years is very positive. It's a great to invest in property!

Jessica Diskant, Realtor, Royal Lepage Westside, 604-263-9311

May Long Weekend

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 17 May 2007 19:08:00 GMT

Many people will be going out of town to take a break from city life and daily routines and responsibilities.

If you are staying home and wish to do some upgrading to your property, here are a few ideas:

1. Take the opportunity to work in your garden. While you are enjoying your gardening projects, be mindful of what you plant and what will offer your property more curb appeal. Bright flowers are nice, rich colored top soil has a good appearance and ofcourse a groomed lawn is a plus.

2. Painting - If you have some fences, doors, molding or any window sills that need touching up, it's amazing how crisp, fresh paint in just a few areas, will make your house show better.

3. Maybe you could have a garage or yard sale and de-clutter. Freeing up your kitchen and bathroom counters really is helpful.

4. If you have a deck and it's needs a coat for protection -- keep that in mind as a worthwhile project.

5. Simple things like sweeping your porches, cleaning the decks, clearing out the basement or utility room will make you feel better and will help your home show better as well!

Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Realtor, Royal Lepage Westside, 604-263-9311

Home Safety for you and your Family

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 16 May 2007 21:52:00 GMT

We often take things for granted and do not think about possible accidents that could happen in or around our home. How cluttered are your walkways? Do you have areas on the floor which are so cluttered you couldn't get by to exit if you needed to? Do you use a room as a bedroom that doesn't have a window?

Please consider this. Make sure there are at least 2 ways to exit every room in your house. In the highly unlikely event that you have a fire, everyone should have an escape plan. Another pro-active thing you can do is to make sure you all have a known meeting place where you can rendezvous that is safe.

How is your smoke detector? Do you know if it works? Batteries in smoke detectors should be changed every six months and the detectors, themselves should be changed every 10 years or so.

These are just a few ideas which you can incorporate into your homes. If you would lke more information, please contact me.

Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Realtor, 604-261-9311

April housing sales pick up and listing activity increases

Jessica Diskant — Wed, 09 May 2007 19:38:00 GMT

May 2, 2007, Vancouver, B.C.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that total residential sales for detached, attached and apartment properties reached 3,387 units in April 2007, an increase of 1.3 per cent when compared to the 3,345 units sold in April 2006 and a decrease of 16.2 per cent when compared to the 4,043 sales in April 2005.

New listings for detached, attached and apartment properties increased by 25.3 percent to 5,580 units compared to the 4,452 units listed in April 2006. The total number of active listings increased by 25.8 per cent to 11,347 units when compared to April 2006's 9,022 units.

So far, the constants our market has experienced over the past five years are holding strong in 2007. We're still in one of the best markets real estate has ever had in Greater Vancouver. Sales are higher than historical norms and homes are selling very quickly, usually with multiple-offers, says REGV president Brian Naphtali.

If you would like to get a better idea of properties available in your community, please feel free to contact me.

You may check out listings on my website, www.homesvan.com.

Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Realtor, Royal LePage Westside, 604-261-9311

DECREASE YOUR ENERGY COSTS

Jessica Diskant — Fri, 04 May 2007 01:54:00 GMT

With summer not too far away, why not consider how you can reduce your energy bill?

During the few months where you may put on a cooling system in your home, consider just making it 1 to 2 degrees warmer. This minor adjustment will make a difference in your hydro bill.

Another easy and smart thing we can all do is wait until the dishwasher is full. Running your dishwasher several times less in a week, will also cut your expenses. Is your refridgerator 15 years old or older? The refridgerators that were built prior to those years were not nearly as energy efficient as those made today -- keep that in mind.

If your computer is on and the monitor is on all of the time, just by shutting it down for 10 hours a day (while you are sleeping and a bit more) you can save about $5.00 a month.

During the winter months, make sure that your windows are well caulked and that your attic is insulated. If any of your doors seem to be letting in a draft, proper weather stripping will make all of the difference.

There are many ways in which we can reduce our energy expenditure as well as the expense of energy.

Have real estate questions? Please feel free to contact me.

Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Realtor, Royal Lepage Westside 604-261-9311

Vancouver Westside Real Estate Under $800,000

Jessica Diskant — Tue, 01 May 2007 20:09:00 GMT

If you are looking on the westside and would like to buy a detached house under $800,000 the neighborhoods to consider are South Cambie, South Granville, Marpole and Mt. Pleasant.The neighborhoods that I have mentioned, still have detached homes with lots of space, however, most of these homes will require renovations. Keep in mind that if there is a suite, this too can help you with your mortgage.

If you are eager to buy a home on the westside but cannot afford the higher prices consider the above information. We anticipate appreciation to be within 7% and 10% this year and most likely the same in 2008.

For more information, please feel free to visit my website at www.homesvan.com, or call me directly at 604-999-4770.

Regards,

Jessica Diskant, Realtor

Royal Lepage Westside (604-261-9311)

New Yorker is a Realtor in Vancouver

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:54:00 GMT

Welcome to my blog,

I just want to introduce myself. I am originally from New York City. I moved to California years ago and eventually ended up in Canada, 14 years ago. I spent several years working for Banks, developers and was involved in leasing in the Bay Area for several years ( in my early career days).

I have been with Royal Lepage approximately 4 years and love my career. Vancouver is such a great place to live.

If you have any questions about real estate or if you are a baby boomer from the States and would just like to say hello, please feel free.

Jessica Diskant, Realtor, 604-261-9311

Prices Still Rising in Vancouver

Jessica Diskant — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:39:00 GMT

There are many people wanting to get into the real estate market and finding it increasingly difficult in terms of affordability. We are experiencing a more balanced market after the frenetic buyer activity of the last few years.

Although there is a slight decrease in homes sales, we still anticipate rising prices with appreciation expected to be within 7 and 10%. Vancouver is an international city and has been sited as the 3rd most desirable city to live in, in the entire world.

The change in housing market conditions does not indicate any kind of collapse in the market.

For first time buyers or investors, there are great mortgage possibilities out there. If you would like more information or referrals, feel free to contact me.

Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Real Estate Agent

Federal Government Reduces Required Mortgage Downpayment Minimum

Jessica Diskant — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 20:32:00 GMT

The Federal Government recently reduced it's minimum required mortgage down payment for mortgage default insurance from 25 per cent to 20 percent.

Ths means that in order to avoid CMHC insurance you now only need to put down 20% of the total payment instead of the traditional 25 per cent.

This will have a big impact on the pruchasing power in the Vancouver real estate market as CHMC insurance typically costs people between $4,000 and $10,000 depending on the price of the property and the amount of down payment.

The new limit also affects people who intend to refinance their mortgages in the near future. With prices continuing to increase in the Vancouver real estate market by an estimated 7-10% a year up until the Olympics, this will have a significant effect on buying power.

For more information please contact:Jessica Diskant, Vancouver Real Estate Agent, Royal Lepage Westside

604-261-9311