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Deciding to buy a home is a significant milestone. While the decision is personal, certain signs can indicate that you're ready to make the move from renting to owning. Here are six clear indicators:

1. Stable Income and Employment

Consistency in your job and income provides the financial foundation needed for homeownership. Lenders look for steady employment when approving mortgages.

2. Good Credit Score

A healthy credit score can secure better mortgage rates, saving you money over time. Regularly check your credit report and address any discrepancies.

3. Sufficient Savings for Down Payment

Having enough saved for a down payment, typically between 5% to 20% of the home's price, is crucial. This also demonstrates financial discipline to lenders.

4. Desire for Personalization

If you're eager to customize your living space—paint walls, renovate, or landscape—homeownership offers that freedom, unlike renting.

5. Long-Term Living Plans

Planning to stay in one place for several years? Buying can be more cost-effective than renting in the long run, building equity over time.

6. Understanding of Responsibilities

Owning a home comes with maintenance and financial responsibilities. If you're prepared to handle repairs, property taxes, and other obligations, it's a good sign you're ready.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If these signs resonate with you, it might be the perfect time to explore homeownership. Connect with Jared Gibbons, a seasoned real estate agent with over 10 years of experience. Jared can guide you through the buying process, helping you find the perfect home that fits your needs and budget.

Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. Many people turn to Google with their biggest questions. Today, we’re breaking down the 12 most commonly Googled real estate questions—with clear, straightforward answers to help you feel more confident in your journey.

1. How Do I Know What I Can Afford?

Start with your income, debts, and savings. Most lenders recommend that your housing costs not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. Try this mortgage affordability calculator to get a realistic estimate.

2. What’s the Difference Between Being Pre-Qualified and Pre-Approved?

• Pre-Qualified: A rough estimate based on self-reported info.

• Pre-Approved: A more serious step. Lenders review your credit, income, and documents. It shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
  Learn more about mortgage pre-approvals.

3. What Does a REALTOR® Actually Do?

A REALTOR® helps you buy or sell a property, negotiate offers, handle paperwork, and protect your best interests throughout the process. They also have local market knowledge and experience.

4. How Do I Know What to Offer?

Your REALTOR® will compare similar homes recently sold in the area (called “comps”) and consider current market trends to guide your offer. Factors include the home’s condition, location, and how competitive the market is.

5. What Are Closing Costs?

These are additional expenses at the end of your purchase or sale. They can include:

• Legal fees

• Land transfer tax

• Appraisal fees

• Title insurance
  Budget around 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. Read more on closing costs in Canada.

6. Do I Really Need a Home Inspection?

Yes! A licensed inspector checks the home’s structure, plumbing, electrical systems, roof, and more. This can help you avoid costly surprises. Learn about why inspections matter.

7. What Happens If the Appraisal Comes in Low?

If the bank’s appraisal is lower than your offer, your mortgage may be reduced. You may have to renegotiate the price, pay the difference, or walk away.

8. Can I Buy a Home and Sell My Current One at the Same Time?

Yes, but timing is important. You can:

• Sell first and rent temporarily

• Buy first with bridge financing
  Speak with your REALTOR® about the best strategy for your situation.

9. How Long Does the Process Take?

• Buying a home: Usually 30–60 days after an accepted offer

• Selling a home: Depends on market conditions but can happen within weeks
  Adding financing, inspections, and legal steps takes time.

10. What’s the First Step to Buying a Home?

Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This gives you a clear idea of your budget and makes you more competitive as a buyer.

11. Do I Really Need 20% Down?

No! In Canada:

• You can put as little as 5% down for homes under $500,000

• Between 5% and 10% for homes up to $1M

• 20% or more avoids mortgage insurance
  More info here: Government of Canada mortgage rules

12. Should I Wait for a Better Market?

Trying to time the market is tough. Instead, focus on your personal goals, finances, and lifestyle. Work with a REALTOR® to understand if it’s a good time for you.

🎯 Final Thoughts
Real estate doesn’t have to be confusing. By asking the right questions and working with an experienced REALTOR®, you can make informed decisions with confidence.

📞 If you’re getting started, reach out to Jared Gibbons — a real estate agent with over 10 years of experience helping clients buy, sell, and invest with clarity and success.

Detached Townhouse at 76 3500 144 Street Closes Off Market at $1.5M

We’re thrilled to announce the successful off-market sale of 76 3500 144 Street in South Surrey’s prestigious “The Crescent” complex. Listed at $1,500,000, this stunning detached townhouse, built in 2001, featured 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a private yard, and a spacious 2,305 sq ft layout. This sale marks one of the highest ever recorded in the entire complex!

Located in a private, central setting, The Crescent offers exclusive amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, clubhouse, and a guest suite — perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.

📍 The home is only minutes away from key community highlights:

• Top-rated schools like Semiahmoo Trail Elementary and École Elgin Park Secondary

• Recreation spots including Elgin Estates Park and Elgin Community Hall

• Nearby shopping at Morgan Crossing and Grandview Corners

• Just a short walk to public transit and 15 minutes to White Rock Beach

With a strata that’s well-managed and recent upgrades such as exterior cleaning, tree trimming, and dryer vent servicing, this home provided peace of mind and long-term value to the buyers.

💬 Thinking about your next move?
If you're beginning your search for a new home, don’t go it alone. Contact Jared Gibbons — a trusted real estate advisor with over 10 years of experience helping clients find exactly what they need. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, Jared’s expertise in the South Surrey real estate market can guide you every step of the way.

📞 Reach out today to start your journey toward the perfect home.

Welcome to 5657 Kathleen Drive, a beautifully maintained family home nestled in one of Sardis’s most desirable neighbourhoods. This 2,429 sqft home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a versatile layout perfect for growing families or anyone looking for comfort and functionality.

Located just minutes from top-rated schools, serene parks, scenic Vedder River trails, and popular shopping areas like Cottonwood Mall, you’ll enjoy both convenience and community.

The main floor offers a bright living room with a cozy gas fireplace, a dining area, and a spacious kitchen with an eating nook that opens to a family room—ideal for entertaining or spending quality time at home. Upstairs, you’ll find new flooring, a large games room over the garage, and four bedrooms, including a generous primary suite with a gorgeous renovated ensuite.

Additional upgrades include:

• A new retaining wall

• An updated furnace

• Central A/C for year-round comfort

• A built-in vacuum system

• A covered 10 x 10 patio—great for summer BBQs and morning coffee

Even the powder room has been tastefully updated, showcasing the thoughtful care that has gone into this home.

Whether you're looking to upsize, start a new chapter, or settle into a quiet, family-friendly community, this home checks all the boxes. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this lovely home—it could be yours soon!

👉 For more information or to book a private showing, contact Jared Gibbons today!

We’re excited to announce the successful sale of a beautifully renovated 2-bedroom + den condo located at 202 5294 204 Street, Langley City. This unit offered a perfect blend of modern comfort and unbeatable location—ideal for first-time homebuyers or savvy investors looking for value in a growing community.

The unit featured brand-new appliances, stylish flooring, contemporary lighting, updated countertops, modern fixtures, and sleek baseboards. The thoughtfully designed bathroom boasted two separate sinks and dual access—functioning either as a private ensuite or a guest powder room.

Just steps from vibrant Downtown Langley, the home is within walking distance to top local amenities like Cascade Casino, Willowbrook Shopping Centre, and numerous gyms and fitness centers. Nature lovers will appreciate being less than a minute away from Portage Park—a tranquil green space perfect for walks, picnics, and play.

Families will benefit from access to excellent schools like Nicomekl Elementary and Langley Secondary School. Pet lovers will be pleased to know that the building allows one dog or two cats, and residents enjoy a shared rooftop patio for lounging and socializing.

Although this stunning condo is now sold, opportunities like this don’t last long. If you’re searching for a similar property or looking to invest in Langley City, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jared Gibbons—a trusted real estate agent with over 10 years of experience in the Lower Mainland. Jared can help guide you through the process and find exactly what you’re looking for.

📞 Contact Jared Gibbons today and let’s turn your property goals into reality!