Posts Tagged ‘House Hunting’

A Week on the Road: HHT Diaries

Posted on: October 7th, 2024 by Chris Scott

Ever wonder what a HHT (House Hunting Trip) looks like? Every year we help dozens of families relocate into ottawa on their house hunting trips. With only five days to spend in a new city looking for a house it is very intense! We had so much fun documenting our most recent experience.

Day One: Stittsville and Barrhaven

We kicked off the first day by exploring homes in Stittsville, where the neighbourhood’s charm immediately stood out. The friendly atmosphere and tree-lined streets made a strong first impression. However, while the overall vibe of Stittsville was appealing, the home we toured felt too dark for their taste, quickly ruling it out.

Next, we shifted our focus to Barrhaven, where most of their top choices were located. The proximity to recreational centres, shopping, and the well-established community made Barrhaven an appealing option. While some of the homes we visited were a bit older or showed signs of wear, that didn’t affect their final picks. By the end of the day, they had narrowed it down to two or three homes that really stood out and were worth keeping in mind as we continued the search.

Day Two: Richmond, Orleans, and Findlay Creek

We started the day in Richmond, focusing on a few homes Chris had picked out as they aligned perfectly with our client’s criteria. These homes were all new built or constructed within the last few years, offering a bright and modern feel. Several of them backed onto green space, which was a key feature our clients were looking for. While Richmond’s growth and development were appealing, there was some hesitation about whether the current infrastructure would keep pace with the rising population.

After wrapping up in Richmond, we made the hour-long drive to Orleans to check out a few homes that had been high on their favourites list. However, it was clear upon arrival that these homes were significantly older and more lived-in compared to the newer properties we had seen earlier. On the plus side, the larger yards were a hit, but ultimately, the homes didn’t meet their needs.

Toward the end of the day, we managed to squeeze in a last-minute showing back in Richmond. This home ticked many of the right boxes and quickly rose to the top of their list. Meanwhile, Colin took them to see one more property in Findlay Creek, a last-minute opportunity since it was in his area. Unfortunately, this home didn’t fit their needs either, and that wrapped up Day Two.

Day Three: New Listings and Final Visits

After some reflection, our clients realized that while they liked the homes in Richmond, they couldn’t quite picture themselves living there long-term. However, a few new listings had come on the market since we originally booked their showings, and they wanted to explore those before making a decision.

We started the day in Kanata, arriving just as the for-sale sign was being installed. The home featured a pool, which caught their attention, but the small rooms left them wondering how it would work with their growing boys. Despite the hesitation, it earned a spot in their top three choices.

Next, we headed to another new listing. The clients were impressed by both the home and the yard, but with multiple offers already on the table and the tight time frame of their house-hunting trip, entering a bidding war just wasn’t a feasible option.

From there, we revisited their two top picks from Barrhaven. As the day came to a close, they faced a tough decision between the two favourites in Barrhaven and the new contender in Kanata. To feel confident in their choice, they decided to return to the Kanata home with Chris for one final look that evening.

Pros & Cons of the Top Three Picks

Day Four: Decision Day

After much deliberation, our clients were finally ready to make their decision. They chose their top pick and we quickly submitted an offer. After a bit of negotiation and back-and-forth with the sellers, we successfully secured a conditional agreement!

Fortunately, we had already arranged for a home inspection, which took place just two days later. Everything went smoothly, and the conditions were met by the following week, officially securing their new home. It was a perfect way to wrap up an exciting and productive house-hunting trip!

Ready to kick off your House Hunting Trip? We’re here to make it smooth and stress-free. We’d love to help you find your perfect home. Get in touch today!

Selling with a BGRS Realtor

Posted on: August 15th, 2024 by Chris Scott

When it comes to selling your home, especially within the unique demands of military life, it’s essential to work with a realtor who understands your needs. At the Chris Scott Team, we pride ourselves on providing a full-service solution tailored specifically for military sellers. Unlike many in the industry, who have opted to reduce services when working with a military listing due to the diminished fee structure, we’ve chosen to maintain the same high level of care for our Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) clients. This commitment stems from our deep respect for the service members and their families, who deserve nothing but the best during what can be a stressful and significant life event.

Our Full-Service Approach

Initial Meeting
Our relationship begins with an in-depth initial meeting. During this consultation, we take the time to understand your specific situation, needs, and goals. Whether you’re facing a fast-paced relocation or have more time to plan, we tailor our approach to ensure a smooth and efficient process. This meeting also serves as a time for us to answer any questions you may have, laying the groundwork for a successful partnership.

Example: In March, we connected with clients who found us through our Ottawa relocations website. They were preparing for a military move and needed to sell their home on 254 Burnaby Drive. During our initial meeting, we discussed their timeline, plans for renovations, and their expectations for the sale.

Staging
One of the keys to selling a home quickly and at the best possible price is proper staging. We offer professional staging services to showcase your home’s best features, making it as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Our team brings in high-quality furnishings and décor that resonate with the current market trends, ensuring that your home makes a lasting first impression.

Example: As our 254 Burnaby Drive clients completed renovations in June, our stager provided guidance on how to optimize their space. They implemented these tips themselves, and later, our stager returned to add the final touches, ensuring the home was perfectly presented.

Professional Photography
In today’s digital age, first impressions are often made online. That’s why we invest in professional photography to highlight your home in the best possible light. Our photographers are skilled in capturing the unique qualities of each room and outdoor space, creating a visual story that attracts serious buyers.

Video Tours
In addition to stunning photos, we provide high-quality video tours. These are especially valuable for military buyers who may be relocating from another part of the country and can’t visit in person. Our video tours offer a comprehensive view of the property, giving remote buyers the confidence to make informed decisions.

Example: For 254 Burnaby Drive, we produced a full-length video tour, complete with Realtor commentary, to showcase the home’s unique features. This approach was particularly beneficial for out-of-town buyers, increasing the property’s appeal.

Listing
Once everything is prepared, we list your home on multiple platforms, including MLS and our website. We craft a compelling listing description that highlights the unique aspects of your home and the surrounding community. Our goal is to attract as many qualified buyers as possible, ensuring a competitive market for your property.

Example: We listed 254 Burnaby Drive on MLS, our website, and Realtor.ca, ensuring maximum exposure. The result? The home sold in just two days, receiving multiple offers—a testament to the effectiveness of our full-service approach.

Selling
From managing showings to negotiating offers, we handle every aspect of the selling process with precision and care. Our experience in military real estate means we understand the urgency and specific requirements that often accompany a military move. We work diligently to secure the best possible terms for you, ensuring a smooth transition to your next chapter.

Post-Selling Care
Our commitment to you doesn’t end when the sale is finalized. We provide post-selling care to ensure that all loose ends are tied up. This includes assistance with any final paperwork, coordination with movers, recommendations for trusted cleaning services, and offering guidance on your next steps, whether that’s settling into a new community or preparing for your next deployment. It even goes beyond the closing of your home, with birthday cards, client draws, and more—we love to keep in touch with you.

Example: After the sale of 254 Burnaby Drive, we connected our clients with a trusted company that checks in on the home to ensure everything is maintained before the new owners take possession. This extra step is part of our ongoing commitment to our clients’ peace of mind.

At the Chris Scott Team, we’re more than just realtors—we’re your partners in the journey of buying or selling your home. For our CAF members, this means providing a level of service that reflects the honor and commitment you bring to your service. We believe that by maintaining our high standards and full-service approach, we can make the real estate process as seamless and stress-free as possible for you and your family.

The Challenges of Homeownership for Military Members in Ottawa

Posted on: August 14th, 2024 by Chris Scott

Posting to Ottawa is usually a message that our clients are excited about. It is much better than Cold Lake! The challenge with our market is that home ownership here is out of reach for many military families. Rising property prices, tight supply, and high interest rates have made things very tough!  These factors have shifted the housing landscape, prompting many CAF members to reconsider homeownership and instead explore renting as a more viable option.

The Rising Cost of Property in Ottawa

Ottawa has always been an attractive location for both civilian and military families. The city offers a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community. However, the booming real estate market has driven property prices out of reach for many. For military members, who are often required to relocate frequently due to postings, the high cost of purchasing a home in Ottawa can be prohibitive. Especially if members are relocating from the maritime provinces where the property prices are typically much lower. If you are coming from the West you are typically going to find similar or lower prices here. 

For CAF members, who must adhere to a strict budget and financial planning, this competitive market can make homeownership seem out of reach.

Renting: A Practical Alternative

Given the current housing market conditions, many military members in Ottawa are turning to renting as a more practical and financially prudent option. Renting offers flexibility, which is particularly important for CAF members who may receive new postings on short notice. Additionally, renting eliminates the financial burden of a large mortgage and the potential loss in home value should the market fluctuate.

If you’re a military member navigating the Ottawa housing market, remember that you’re not alone. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, understanding your options and making informed decisions is key to securing a home that meets your needs without compromising your financial well-being.

To buy or rent? 

This will be dependent on many factors. With all expenses covered on a purchase it is really tempting to buy. With a good Realtor by your side you can make an investment that should appreciate in value. We have had less than 3 years of decreasing prices in the last 3 decades. So chances are you will have equity on the other side when you are posted out. There are also programs in place to mitigate losses should you find yourself in that unfortunate situation. 

Our military specialty is a bit unusual in Ottawa. We have lots of experience navigating these questions and would be happy to help in any way we can! 

 

The CAF Clients Who Changed My Career Path

Posted on: August 9th, 2024 by Chris Scott

In 2008, I had the opportunity to work with Anny and Martin, a couple who were part of a BGRS move. What started as a regular real estate transaction turned into something much more meaningful. Their positive attitude, trust, and openness made the experience memorable, and it ultimately shaped my career.

After helping them purchase their home, I realized how rewarding it was to work with military families. It wasn’t just about the transaction; it was about understanding their unique needs, especially during relocation. This experience led me to specialize in military real estate, and I’ve never looked back.

Sixteen years and four transactions later, Anny and Martin contacted me to list their home in Kingston. This wasn’t just another listing; it was a reminder of the ongoing relationship we had built and how much of my business I owe to them and others in the CAF community.

Working with military families is about more than just buying and selling homes—it’s about being there for them during significant transitions. Anny and Martin are a big reason I chose this path, and they continue to inspire me to do my best for every client.

 

 

House Hunting Efficiency: A Military Success Story in Ottawa

Posted on: May 14th, 2024 by Chris Scott

 

We recently had the pleasure of assisting a military couple with their house hunt in Ottawa, turning it into an efficient and exciting adventure. The journey began with setting up a personalized portal tailored to their preferences, 

allowing them to interact with listings by favouriting, disliking, and commenting on homes. This interactive approach helped Chris develop a strategic itinerary to maximize their limited viewing time.

To ensure efficiency during their brief visit, Chris pre-booked an inspection with a trusted home inspector before the couple’s arrival. This foresight was crucial in accommodating the tight timeframe and guaranteed that they could work with a reliable inspector.

Upon their arrival on a Sunday, the couple dived into their home search, visiting 28 homes over four days across Ottawa and its surrounding areas. Chris’s deep knowledge of the region helped them explore a variety of neighbourhoods, from the small-town feel of Carleton Place & Kemptiville to the notable suburbs of Kanata, Barrhaven and Stittsville. We explored them all! More inventory in the 2024 posting season has made military house hunting in Ottawa easier than in previous years. Good to see more balanced conditions in our marketplace. 

The highlight of their trip was of course finding their dream home in Kemptville and swiftly fulfilling the home inspection condition, providing them with essential peace of mind.

This story exemplifies the success of a well-planned House Hunting Trip (HHT). If you’re preparing for your HHT in Ottawa or surrounding areas, our team is ready to guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful home-buying experience.

Interested in starting your house-hunting journey? Contact us today to learn how we can assist you!

BOOK YOUR HHT HERE

Predictions for Spring Market

Posted on: February 22nd, 2024 by Chris Scott

Spring is approaching, and the real estate market, after a unique start in 2024 with hesitant buyers and sellers, is showing signs of optimism. Check out why we expect a pickup in activity as confidence grows, anticipating a dynamic and bustling season ahead. If you have questions about what’s happening in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. My team and I would love to have a chat with you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neighbourhood Stats Popular for Military Clients Relocating to Ottawa

Posted on: January 3rd, 2024 by Chris Scott

When military clients get transferred to Ottawa, they are often looking in the core 5 Suburban neighbourhoods. Much depends on where our clients will be posted to within the city. Popular areas now tend to be West Ottawa due to NDHQ being in the Nortel complex in Nepean. For a helpful reference, we publish monthly stats for these suburban neighborhoods. There is so much to know before you start looking. Get in touch with us as we specialize in helping military clients purchase in the Ottawa area. 

 

Colin’s Army Run Success

Posted on: September 22nd, 2023 by Chris Scott

This year, Colin, made us proud by participating in the Army Run, where he excelled in both the 5K and 10K races. Notably, he achieved personal best times in both events and ranked 58th out of 715 participants in the Sergeant Majors Challenge. Colin’s dedication extended beyond the race, as he also raised significant funds for the military.

Our commitment to supporting military families in Ottawa is unwavering. We understand the unique challenges they face during relocation, and our local expertise and tailored services ensure a smooth transition. Colin’s exceptional performance exemplifies our dedication to making a positive impact on our military clients.

CAF Relocation Directive – Spending Account

Posted on: June 6th, 2023 by Chris Scott

Here is a summary of the details of spending accounts related to CAFRD (Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive) benefits. There are two types of spending accounts: the Core Account and the Custom Account. Unused benefits from either account are forfeited and cannot be used for other expenses.

The Core Account is meant to compensate members for essential relocation expenses related to their move. It is not a fixed amount of funds.

The Custom Account is a fixed amount of funds determined by an individualized formula. It serves two purposes: enhancing benefits from the Core Account as indicated in the directive and providing flexibility to choose other CAFRD benefits that meet the member’s relocation needs.

The formula for the Custom Account is A + B + C = D, where A represents the accommodation factor, B represents the transportation factor, C represents the HG&E (household goods and effects) shipment factor, and D represents the total amount available in the Custom Account. The transportation factor is calculated using a kilometric rate based on the Department of Finance income tax deduction limit for the use of personal vehicles for business purposes.

The Custom Account formula also includes specific calculations for each factor. A is the greater of $1,000 or a percentage of the real estate commission based on the sale price of the principal residence. B is 35% of the cost of one-way transport for the member and dependents. C is 35% of the average cost of shipping qualifying household goods and effects per qualifying room.

Qualifying rooms for the HG&E shipment factor are listed, including bedrooms, kitchen, living room, etc. When items are shipped out of long-term storage, the formula is based on the number of qualifying rooms when the items originally went into storage.

In cases where a member shares accommodations with individuals other than their spouse or dependents, the HG&E shipment factor is based only on the rooms occupied by the member.

Finding the Perfect Home in Ottawa’s Outskirts: A Winning House-Hunting Strategy

Posted on: June 1st, 2023 by Chris Scott

House hunting in Ottawa can be an intimidating endeavor, particularly due to the city’s extensive spread. Many buyers now seek better value by exploring the outskirts of the town. Recently, we had some wonderful clients who preferred locations such as Rockland, Limoges, Embrun, and Russell. These neighborhoods offered approximately $100,000 in savings when compared to a similar house in Ottawa’s closest suburban area, Orleans.

While going through a list of around 30 properties to consider, I made an executive decision to prioritize the property that I believed provided the best value and fulfilled most of my client’s requirements. This property became our top choice for the first day of house viewings. This strategy worked remarkably well, as my clients instantly fell in love with the home. After leaving the first house, they were convinced that it was an excellent option for them. Over the course of three days of showings, no other property came close to matching their needs. It’s rare to find a home that aligns so closely with one’s requirements during a house-hunting trip. Comparing every subsequent house to the first one greatly benefited us and provided clarity to my clients. Knowing that finding a second alternative was not desirable, it became crucial to secure this house.

Fortunately, we successfully acquired this property at a great price. I believe that adopting the tactic of starting the house-hunting trip with the top property can be an effective approach. My philosophy has always been to showcase the best properties on the first day, as there’s a high chance that if you like something, someone else might too. Additionally, this strategy allows you to respond promptly if one of the top properties receives an offer while you’re exploring secondary options.