Know what you know,
know what you don’t know,
and know who to ask.
Every property purchase is as unique as you are. We are blessed in Revelstoke with some quality individuals and organizations who work behind the scenes and on the front lines, for you, with the common goal of helping you ‘home.’
When your time comes to look at either buying or selling real estate, you’re going to be talking to a lot of people. Below is a reference guide, which includes but is not limited to, product and service providers you can use while considering a purchase or to maximize your sale.
Mortgage Brokers/Banks/Credit Unions
Show me the money! Each of these financiers offers something different with regards to lending practices and options for rates. Find out which combo works best for you. Getting pre-approved is step one in the home search. You’ll then have an idea what sort of price range you’ll be targeting.
Insurance
They’ve got you covered. Just like mortgages, insurance plans come with lots of options. Take the time to find the right plan for you.
Lawyer/Notary
Laying out the law. These fine minds make it all come together on closing day. They take care of changing the names on title, Property Transfer Tax, the funds being transferred, creating the Statement of Adjustments to allocate every penny and so much more. We also recommend having a lawyer or notary review the contract of purchase and sale itself before subject removal as well.
Home Inspection
Contact a reputable inspector for a thorough investigation of the home from foundation to roof. Ever heard the term ‘Caveat Emptor’. It’s a Latin phrase for ‘let the buyer beware.’ Essentially it proclaims that the buyer must perform their due diligence when purchasing an item or service.” Read more: Caveat Emptor Definition | Investopedia
The City of Revelstoke
Permits and zoning and property tax, oh my! Learn all you can about what a property is zoned for, the building/development process and the property tax breakdown.
Surveyors
Precisely pinpoint your property lines.
Geo Tech
Get all the dirt on the slope stability and soil quality.
Architects/Designers
If you’re going to be custom building a home you’ll want expertise behind your plans. These professionals will take care of every detail designing you dream mountain home.
Builders
Seek out a builder to bring your plans to life. We have some talented people with bright ideas here in Revelstoke.
Concrete finishers
Transform the patio, garage and entrances to a home into functional, stylish space. There are tons of finishing options to suit different uses and colour options too.
Roofing
Learn which type of roofing works best for the structure of the house and the slope for the inevitable ‘roofalanches’ that thunder down in this powder laden paradise. It’s best if it doesn’t fall onto a walkway, it’s like shoveling cement.
Drywallers
Do this important job right and hire a professional drywaller that knows all the tricks of the trade.
Painters
Nothing freshens and brightens a home more than a new coat of paint. Create a vibrant look and add value to your home with the help of one of the friendly local talented professional painters.
Staging
In the big cities a home stagers services are in high demand. Their services are becoming more and more popular here and for good reason. A simple, clean look for the discerning buyer goes a long way. It lets their imagination run wild. Bringing in a stager isn’t necessarily expensive with different levels of service offered and you can bet the return will be lucrative.
Plumbers
Call in a plumber to upgrade any galvanized pipes, especially the pressurized supply lines. This is an insurance requirement. Find out the details on the different types of material used from copper to PEX and get your pipes in tip top shape.
Electricians
Lights, camera, action! An electrician will ensure your outlets operate safely and have enough juice to meet the requirements of your household. The minimum recommended panel for the average home is 200 amps. Why? Because it’s 2015!
HVAC / Furnace
The heating and cooling of your home have equal importance. Enjoy your interior living space at all times of year by having your furnace serviced and upgraded for optimal comfort levels and air quality. Or consider a heat pump?
WETT Certification
If you opt for a wood or pellet stove, you’ll have to have it WETT Certified for insurance purposes. Totally worth it though for the safety aspect as well as those cozy winter nights by the fire.
Septic
If you’re not hooked up to the city sewer system, you’ll have your own personal septic system on site. Seek out a pro ensure everything is working as it should when selling or purchasing a house with a septic system.
Wells
A well specialist will provide data about the water quantity and quality. Pretty important stuff to know when making an offer or deciding on a list price.
Arborists
Trees please! Enhance your property with happy healthy trees. They create shade, privacy and provide bountiful fruits. If your property has fruit trees check out the local Revelstoke Bear Aware site for lots of great info.
Landscaping
Consider a home’s outdoor space in your search or when listing your property. In the warm months the outdoor living areas are where some of the best memories are made. Transform any space into a personal oasis with vegetable and flower gardens, patios, outdoor kitchens, water features and complimentary furnishings surrounded by lush greenery. We are in the world’s only inland temperate rain forest, after all!
Movers
Take a load off with the help of professional movers.
Of course the list goes on. You may also require the services of a Massage Therapist and a Yoga Teacher! You are going to learn and grow from this experience. Keep an open mind, breathe and have fun when purchasing or selling your h’OM’mmmme.
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