top of page

 

  My Thoughts & Passions to Share with You 

Dianne's Blog

My Darling Ragdoll/Himilayan Shay Joy

 

Shay Joy:  My Himalayan/Ragdoll  - one of 4 Kitty Kids - born April 23/20

Proud to be a 'Pet Friendly' REALTOR®!

As a Homegrown West Vancouver REALTOR®' following proudly in our Mom's, Nan Hartwick's, exceptional Real Estate career: a reputation that is a Legacy gift, you can 'Expect the Best'  from me as your REALTOR®

SHOWING APPRECIATION FOR LOYALTY
March 24, 2024

I value loyalty in life with my family, friends and in my Real Estate profession.  My Clients can count on my undivided loyalty as I represent their best interests in buying and/or selling a property.

When I see that same quality in others, I appreciate their loyalty in a world where often other vested interests take precedence and loyalty goes out the window. 

It gives me much pleasure to show my appreciation with special gifts to people who also value loyalty and appreciate that I have conducted my Real Estate services for them, with care, competence and always with their best interests first.

In that regard, I am fortunate to have highly creative friends whose artistry is exquisite, that  create beautiful gifts.

Thank you Stephanie Skippon & Erfan Banoo - two very gifted Artists.

Gorgeous Fall Colours typical in West Vancouver, BC

 

 

SUCCESS:

Here's what it's NOT about:  $$$$$$ 

November 9, 2023

Happy Fall everyone:

 

Recently, a good friend referred a delightful BUYER to me, for which I was very appreciative. Referrals reflect trust and faith in you as a REALTOR® and your reputation, so they always mean a lot.

 

The Buyer and I got on famously well and have become friends. I am always attentive to my Clients' lifestyle needs and special wishes for their new home. I knew what my mission was - I just had to succeed in finding it!

 

The Listing Inventory was extremely low. I researched diligently determined to discover her Dream Home. We continued to look at listings to ensure this was the home they wanted to make new memories in - they knew it was! No matter the statistics . . . . there's always a home out there waiting to make someone's dreams come true.  Mission accomplished.

 

SOLD! A short while ago, they purchased a home that fits all of their family's needs, full of joy and anticipation for their new life chapters ahead  . . . . . one of a handful of recently sold, detached listings in that price bracket, in West Vancouver, BC, Canada.

 

I work with Allan Angell, the Co-Owner of my Brokerage:  Angell Hasman & Assoc. Rlty Ltd; balancing our skills for our Clients' best interests.  Lilian Li, the Listing Agent; was a pleasure to work beside with full cooperation every which way to yield a happy outcome for our respective Clients.

 

Listed for $2,699,000 situated on a serene, huge private lot in Bayridge; fully renovated with lots of protected area for their family dog, in a serene location in Bayridge.  My Client and I both loved the home the minute we walked through the door!

 

I am sincerely delighted that my loyal friend's Referral resulted in a very happy transaction all around.

 

Which brings me to the point of my Newsletter:

 

One of Michelle Obama's famous quotes:

 

"Success isn't about how much money you make; it's about the difference you make in people's lives."

Private Driveway to secluded West Vancouver Residence

Sellers: Beware of 'Being Led Down the Garden Path'

July 2023

Merriam-Webster describes this as expression " to deceive (someone): to cause (someone) to go, think, or proceed wrongly".

 

 

 

I hope you are all enjoying a beautiful summer here in the Lower Mainland. How lucky can we be when we consider the world conditions at large?

 

What, exactly, am I referring to?

 

I want to be candidly open below regarding SELLER'S wishing to list their home for the best possible price, especially in a strange market that we are now experiencing in the Lower Mainland and in particular, West and North Vancouver.

 

In my last Newsletter, I focused on TRUST, LOYALTY AND HONESTY; values I hold dear in every corner of my life. In Real Estate, as in any profession, there are varying degrees of those qualities.

 

These are unusual times and SELLERS need to be vigilant that they are NOT being 'Led down the garden path' by Agents eager to list their home by giving a higher-than-realistic price, to simply appease the SELLER but not advising in their best interests and raising unfair expectations.

 

Home Owners need to be able to TRUST the Agent that they are getting listing advice that is an asset to selling their home for the best price in a timely manner vs the Agent's interests. Over pricing a listing gives the SELLER false expectations while the Agent is happy having the listing. This tactic is not honest or ethical, in my opinion and the Agents that do this are well known in the Profession and they do NOT do their SELLERS any favour. Choices all round are important.

 

What happens next? There are few if any showings and the SELLER then has to lower the price repeatedly over time, to arrive at a realistic listing price. BUYERS will understand the scenario from their Agents. Ultimately, the SELLER will probably have to accept a much lower offer than what they would have received if the home had been listed by the Agent, with the SELLER'S best interests at heart from the get-go! This is NOT the path SELLERS want to take.

 

Presently, there continues to be low Listing inventory and few sales with rising mortgage interest rates by the Bank of Canada - possibly to continue. (Link: Canadian Real Estate Assn & Bank of Canada rising interest rates).

 

Despite the low inventory which should assist Home Sellers, it's not that simple:

 

  • with Mortgages being less available for BUYERS to obtain there are fewer BUYERS;

  • BUYERS are not going to pay for an overpriced listing, instead downsizing expectations;

  • or cannot afford to buy the home they desire and are waiting for better circumstances hoping for rate reductions and more selection of Listings that may or may not be in the offing.

 

For selling a property, no matter how lovely, it is key that a List Price be evaluated properly to advise the SELLER on obtaining the best possible price in a timely manner.

 

In the past month, there have been zero Sales on the North Shore in the $4Million to $5Mill bracket, except for a beautiful, new home in North Vancouver that SOLD in a little over a month for the full, asking price: $4.088 - 4,362 sq ft. - well priced by the Listing Agent.

 

Contrast that with two homes listed for $4.28 million and $4.398 that were Sold within the last month, well below list prices respectively, 13.8% and 17% below - both for $3.76 million.

 

Lower-priced condos are sometimes getting multiple offers with BUYERS downsizing and seeking affordability. However, Condos in the higher price ranges along with Detached homes are showing signs of price reductions to fit market trends and more appropriate prices if they haven't sold. The market doesn't show signs of changing in the foreseeable future. Thus, it is best to sell now and price well.

 

I am delighted to work beside my friend and Co-Owner/Co-Founder of Angell Hasman and Assoc. Rlty. Ltd., Allan Angell. SELLERS/BUYERS can count on sound advice with integrity and we would never lead them 'down a garden path'.

 

On occasion, we have missed getting a listing because of our honesty and the SELLERS understanding better what we had advised - too late. All of our Clients - who trust us and take our well-founded advice are happy and satisfied with their Real Estate Transactions. Commissions are welcome but reputations are more important.

Thinking of Selling Your Home?

March 2, 2023​

  • I'll keep this short and sweet like my video above: 
  • The Residential housing market Inventory on the North Shore & Vancouver remains low but will start to increase with Spring around the corner - slowly.
  • If you are thinking about selling - it's safe to say that NOW is the time to get your home on the market before there is more competition for Sellers.
  • Many homeowners will be looking to downsize or upsize as the better weather approaches and/or other homeowners will find themselves in a financial situation where selling is the best option.
  • Buyers are getting more active since January with the probable slowing or perhaps ceasing of Mortgage rate increases.
  • Sales have increased since January 2023.
  • I have noticed that when a detached/attached home is listing fairly, according to what the market dictates, some listings are selling for above the list price. 

    If you are thinking about selling, please don't hesitate to contact me for a good chat about your property and further requirements.  I know and understand the North Shore of Vancouver, as a West Vancouver 'born and raised' daughter of a highly successful REALTOR® Mom, Nan Hartwick!

 

Contact Dianne:  dihartwick.angellhasman@shaw.ca  or Text:  604-783-6433

 

Who is Dianne Hartwick, Realtor as a person?

 

HAPPY YEAR OF THE RABBIT!

 

January 17, 2023

2023 Year of the Rabbit
Red Front Door for Good Feng Shui

A Video I made to reflect my hope for 2022 - Enjoy!

February 2, 2022

2022 Year of the Tiger

Welcome to the Year of the Tiger!

Residential Housing Inventory Increasing - List Now!

January 30, 2022

HAPPY NEW YEAR, 2022!​​

January 12, 2022

Beloved Kitty Kids:  Shay Joy, Chloe & Angell
Brother Warren at Christmas Time in West Vancouver, BC
Snowclad North Shore Mountains taken from Pt Grey in Vancouver BC

Perfect Pumpkin Pose!

November 1, 2021

Pumpkin Time with Chloe

Just had to post this belated, Halloween picture of Chloe, one of my 3 darling kitty kids, in her perfect pumpkin pose! 

 

I hope Halloween brought smiles to the faces of everyone, but most of all, the children who have had to cope with the strange times of Covid.

 

Last night was a perfect, clear night for the kids to head out for some long overdue fun!  The good weather was Halloween 'magic' given the torrential rains we've had lately - including tonight.  It was a lift to the spirits to see so many children out Trick or Treating along with the adults in their costumes, enjoying the fun just as much!

 

The fireworks were non-stop until close to midnight.  It was like a therapeutic release for everyone, bringing out the 'child' in all of us!

 

For my brothers and me, Halloween always brings forward warm memories, remembering how Mom dressed us up in imaginative costumes to head down our home street of Sunset Lane, in West Vancouver, to collect a bounty of candy from our neighbours.

 

Those were the days of innocence - always to be treasured and held in your heart.

A 'Force of Nature'

September 25, 2021

Real Estate is all about giving your best to your Buyers and Sellers - producing results that make them happy with their purchase and/or sale.


I am a 'force of nature' when focused on my Buyers' and Sellers' best interests; a People Person in every respect; nurturing Client relationships by producing Client centered results - always with a smile!

 

To achieve the best results for  Clients, a REALTOR® must be proficiently professional in all aspects of their duties to Clients, including LOYALTY, full DISCLOSURE, and behaving in a manner to nurture TRUST in the Client relationship.  REALTORS® have a duty to always put their Clients' interests first.


A key aspect of serving Clients well is to be an effective communicator to share important information in all transactions involved in purchasing and selling residential properties; to know when to refer Clients for specialized legal or accounting advice, outside of our expertise as a Real Estate Agent.


The ability for a REALTOR® to position Clients' properties to full advantage on Social Media and other marketing tools, with creativity and exposure is very important in this internet age of marketing. When a REALTOR® has a wide personal network, that works to their Clients' advantage.


A huge asset for a REALTOR® is to be intuitive; to be able to assess the needs of your Clients but go beyond what is spoken to what you believe will produce their desired results.  Often Buyers will outline what they want in a property but end up buying something quite different than they imagined, that their Agent has presented to them.  This is one of my creative strengths!


Likes and dislikes evolve over time in the Relationship, as Buyers are shown various properties and Sellers become more aware of current market conditions and degree of interest in their property.  A REALTOR® assists their Clients with decisions/options so that they can make informed choices/decisions. 


Ultimately, it's the Client's wishes that prevail.


I look forward to  YOUR listening and materializing your Real Estate wishes:

Text or Call for Appointment:  604.783.6433

EV Charging Stations & Strata Corporations

Food for Thought from a SHK Legal Expert

April 10, 2021

 

There is an ever-increasing interest in Electric Vehicles as we all become more aware of making our world a less polluted environment for everyone's best interests!  With more people purchasing Electric cars, it's important for Strata Corporations to understand all of the key factors to consider when installing Charging Stations for their Renters/Owners, that require their own plug-in or one that can be used for multiple cars.

 

SHK Law Corporation in Vancouver, BC specializes in Construction Law but also, is a multi-disciplined highly regarded Law Firm covering professional legal advice for Real Estate, Insurance, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Automotive & Environmental Practice areas.  I can personally vouch for their Professional Services!

 

Please click on the following link for an excellent article on details to consider when installing EV Charging Stations in their Condo or Townhouse buildings.

Do Not Hesitate - List Your Home NOW!

February 19, 2021

Don’t hesitate to list your home in this very rapid, HOT, February market! 

 

Due to historically low, mortgage interest rates, psychological factors associated to Covid and very low housing inventory . . . . NOW is the opportune time to SELL your Home given the current shortage of listings inventory in West & North Vancouver, BC!

 

If you are hesitating and considering listing your home to either downsize or upgrade, you will be certain it is the right time to SELL, after your home evaluation/consultation with Allan Angell (Co Owner/Co Founder of high profile/respected Angell Hasman & Assoc Rlty Ltd) & me.

 

We are always delighted to offer our combined, provide excellent  results for our Clients.  To set up a private discussion, either by phone or in person, please contact me at: 

 

dihartwick.angellhasman@shaw.ca​   or text me with your request:  604.783.6433

 

You can be assured:  'Expect the Best'.

 

Surprise: HOT Housing Market! - (despite Covid)

February 11, 2021


Here we are, mid February, already!


The residential housing market on the North Shore is percolating - much to everyone's surprise!


After speaking with Allan Angell, the Owner/Founder of Angell Hasman & Assoc Rlty Ltd,  whom I work closely with for Residential BUYERS & SELLERS, I was anxious to share the interesting, unexpected, current market conditions based on his experienced, professional insights!  


Over the past 4 to 6 months, the Real Estate Market has changed significantly, from the first part of 2020 when Covid first hit us broadside; nothing moved! However, this 'event' has created psychological impacts on the market over the past months, alongside the lowest mortgage interest rates ever and a shortage of residential listings, creating a very active market with prices starting to escalate. This trend will probably continue for some months.


Allan goes well beyond the Stats released publicly, by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver so the picture becomes crystal clear. When we do a personalized presentation for a BUYER &/or SELLER, Allan shows what the market is doing, in detailed graphs and where it's likely headed; in context with his past 37 yrs of experience.


Here's a snapshot of reality, courtesy of Allan's insights:


The last 6 months in West Vancouver have had the 14th best sales in detached homes in comparison to the past 37 yrs of Stats Allan has compiled.  North Vancouver in the same period, has had its 8th best sales for detached homes. Condos have shown a dramatic increase in sales over the past 4 months, beating the 30 yr average during those months.


Prices for detached homes have increased 8% to 10% in West Vancouver, over the last 6 months and will continue to do so for the next few months. Likely, Covid has caused many people to seek more privacy and upgrade, while others see an opportunity to upgrade while prices are relatively lower.


Allan's ability to deeply analyze the market for our Clients' best interests in making informed, property/lifestyle decisions, is a key benefit for Buyers and Sellers. I believe that there is no other Real Estate Agent in Vancouver, BC, who understands and can explain the same, in-depth analysis on the market stats, that Allan does. I'm proud to sing his praises; well deserved!


One other factor that is helpful to consider regarding Real Estate transactions and the market in the coming months: If people begin to feel safer, as vaccines increasingly are available, there will be a flood into the listing inventory; homes will not sell as quickly and prices may level off or decrease. None of us have a crystal ball but this aspect is a key consideration.


Personally, I am passionate & skilled at seeking out and matching properties that are a good fit for our Buyers' needs.  Also, I have a strong creative streak and love to create visually appealing marketing videos for our Clients' listings, giving wide exposure on social media - a highly useful 'tool'.


You can always  'Expect the Best' from the combined strengths of Allen and me . . . & we always have fun with the focused attention we give our Clients!


Act now - call for your consultation with Allan and me; it will motivate you!   Dianne:  604.783.6433


----------------------------------------

 

Here's a shot taken a few days ago, looking across at what awaits you in my Hometown of West Vancouver, BC - all that you desire!   Be tempted - you will never regret it!

West Vancouver Coastline taken from Pt Grey

Wireless, LED Pocket Lights:  Little Gems!

January 30, 2021

Today is a cozy home day; perfect to Blog and do my Real Estate Marketing with my kitties overjoyed to have me home all day!

 

I just have to share these great little Wireless, Led Pocket Lights that I ordered on Amazon - they have a good selection at reasonable prices. Talk about handy:  use in little areas that need extra illumination e.g. under kitchen cabinets, or in bookcases/shelves and closets! 

 

They operate on batteries, are dimmable and have a remote control.  Best of all:  they stick onto the surface with double sided tape so screws aren't necessary.  I think they're little 'gems' that everyone could use in their homes!

Keep it Simple Cleaning with Baking Soda!

January 10, 2021

Ok Folks; here's to fresh starts into 2021, including with cleaning our living spaces!  When we tackle cleaning in our homes - you don't have to do a major house clean all at once - it clears our mind, too! 

 

When we look around inside and know that appliances and rooms look appealing and are freshly cleaned - it gives us a boost - good old mind/body medicine!

 

Baking Soda is a favourite of mine for cleaning sinks, drains (with hot water & vinegar)  appliances, pots and pans;   never mind ridding our homes of unpleasant odours; it's cheap and effective!

 

Here's a good article to start you off for all the home uses of Baking Soda (apart from baking lol).  Keep it simple and you will feel satisfied! 

 

"Here's to a Happy & Healthy New Year: 2021

Onward & Upwards!"

 

January 2, 2021​

 

Warmest wishes to the World for the fresh year ahead . . . . . full of promise every which way!  As soon as the clock ticked past midnight on January 1, 2021, I felt a distinct lift to my spirits, going outside and bringing in the New Year, as our Mom always did for our home.

 

I sincerely hope that everyone is managing to enjoy 'home life' more than usually, while staying safe in your sanctuary, with or without pets and/or children!  I'm so sorry for anyone who has suffered loss of a loved one. 

 

Personally, my 3 kitties are gifting me with loving company and comfort - not to mention: entertainment - over this weird and unexpected chapter of our lives.  It's the simple pleasures I'm appreciating.

 

This quieter, more introspective time has made many people  more aware of life's perspective and focusing on perhaps finally finding time for hobbies that we never seem to do (I'm tackling recovering my chesterfield!).

 

When we are safe to get back to enjoying a more expansive life adventure - e.g. travelling - I'm sure we will feel much more gratitude of such treats; nothing like having contrasts to bring out appreciation within ourselves, right?  I truly hope that we all take the positives out of this Covid chapter and 'play them forward'.

 

This time has also given people time to reflect on their housing environment. The detached home market has been unexpectedly active, with some Buyers wanting to settle into a larger space with more elbow room; while others have been content to cocoon in their condos.

 

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you are contemplating a change ahead in your living situation or would like to refer a friend to me for their Real Estate wishes. 

I will always do my utmost to meet people's needs in a highly personalized and caring manner . . . . . together with the double 'fire power' of Allan Angell, Co-Owner of Angell Hasman & Associates!

Take good care and hope to connect with you soon!

 

Happy Halloween!

October 31, 2020

I'm sending out happy thoughts to the 'Child' in all of us!

 

My brothers and I always had such fun Halloween times, when Mom would dress her  3 kids up, in very creative costumes & we'd trick or treat down Sunset Lane, in West Vancouver, BC where we grew up.  All of our neighbours greeted us with lots of candy loot - great memories to hold on to. 

 

Even thought this Covid Halloween is like no other - we can all enjoy the good feelings and eat lots of goodies in our homes!

 

I'm sorry that the little children are deprived from many of the usual festivities - but I'm sure that parents are providing lots of fun, safely at home where they can still dress up and get lots of treats!

 

Enjoy everyone - next year will be back to normal again.

Banana Pineapple Muffins

October 22, 2020

Preheat Oven to 400 F (200 C)            Greased or Paper Lined Muffin Tin(s)

Anytime is Muffin time and the great thing is that you can whip them up in no time!  They're also one of the most forgiving treats you can bake.  I thought I'd share with you, a recipe for Banana Pineapple Muffins that are simple to make, yet delicious.

 

So put on your apron, use up those overripe bananas and give this recipe a try.  Like most muffins, these freeze well so they stay fresh.  I always double the recipe!

 

1/2  C white sugar

1/2  C softened butter

1/2  C mashed, overripe bananas

1/2  C crushed,  pineapple with juice

1  egg, beaten

1  tsp baking soda

1  tsp baking powder

1 1/2  C all purpose flour

Pinch of salt

 

1.  In a bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter.  Add the mashed bananas and pineapple; mix well.  Add the beaten egg (batter will look curdled).  Add baking soda, baking powder, flour and salt; blend well.

 

2. Spoon batter into prepared muffin tin(s) dividing evenly.  Bake in preheated oven (middle rack) for 15 - 20 minutes depending on your oven.  Test with a toothpick or sharp, small knife to make sure the muffins are cooked in the middle but still moist.

 

Enjoy!  If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.

 

Banana Pineapple Muffins

Patio Heater Appeal as the Weather Turns Chilly!​

​October 20, 2020

I don't know how you feel, but we seemed short changed with Summer this year.  I love working/eating on the patio with the kitties in their safe playpen. 

 

I've been thinking lately that I might get a Patio Heater so I can enjoy my patio - year round, as many Restaurants are using to increase and expand their customers during this Covid 19 time, when dining indoors isn't very appealing if one wants to stay healthy!  You can always order 'Take Out' and eat your private patio!

 

A little research produced  good suggestions on popular Patio Heaters that you, also, might find helpful!  Please click the buttons to motivate you towards extended enjoyment of your Patios as the snow falls!

 

If you have already purchased a Patio Heater, I'd appreciate hearing your feedback and recommendations via my Contact Page.  Thanks in advance!

Outdoor Heaters are so appealing!

 Happy Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend!

October 10, 2020

Indoor Plants Yearning for Light?

September 21, 2020

Dream of a Tiny House?  ​​

August 23, 2020

 

There's just something so appealling about Tiny Houses.  These little homes are packed full of coziness and offer so much for so little cost, in comparison to full sized homes.  

 

You have all the privacy and comfort of a detached home - just in a well designed structure that also forces you to declutter, which we all can do if we try!  

 

In Vancouver, BC, there has been a trend towards Coach & Laneway Homes that are very similar; constructed on the same property as a larger home that be either rented out for a mortgage helper; used for Guests or family that wish to live close by, yet have their own privacy. 

 

I recently took a Buyer to see such a property with a darling Coach House  in Horseshoe Bay.  It was used an AirBnB with substantial potential for income - designed with a loft, kitchenette, bedroom/washroom etc.

 

Here's a few examples of Tiny Homes that will spark your imagination:   The Spruce

 

If you are interested in viewing this wonderful home with it's oh so lovely Coach House, I'd be delighted to book an appointment for you!   

 

"We Will Meet Again, 'Uncle Allan'​ Fotheringham"

August 19, 2020

 

It's always heartbreaking when a dear friend journeys on to the next adventure, but I have no doubt that after Allan Fotheringham's wonderfully full, life here, he will be be picking up his pen and overseeing with 'wit and wisdom' like no other journalist of his era, the politics of 'the other side' (smile) - always with that twinkle in his eyes!  I am honoured to say, he is sincerely a close, dear friend of ours. 

 

Beginning as a young girl, I had the great, good fortune beside Mom (we were joined at the hip - mother and daugnter - soulmates) in her political involvements with the BC Socred Party; all due to her growing up close to the Hon. WAC Bennett (Cecil) and his wife, May, who was Mom's CGIT Leader in Kelowna: the heart connection to our years of political involvement in British Columbia; they were like family. Those WERE the 'Good old Days'.

 

A large part of that history was Dr Foth or to us: 'Uncle Allan' Fotheringham, who became a dear friend that we shared tons of wonderful times together, during political campaigns, conventions which soon morphed into a ton of personal times we all shared together, including many of his close friends: eg Majorie Nichols & Jack Webster. His nickname for us was: 'The Dolly Sisters'!  I was looking forward to calling 'Uncle Allan' on August 31st, his Birthday, as I always did in recent years.  Previously, Mom, my older Brother and I would be having a ball celebrating his Birthday with other friends on Bowen Is - memories to treasure in warm company. 

 

There were many lunches, dinners and personal invites to Allan's many Book Launches holding such lovely memories.

 

What mattered most to Mom and me, is your true friendship, loyalty and honesty - always empathetic and there in times of trouble and heartache, too.  You are loved like a member of our family - always.

  

Here's to many more great adventures 'Uncle Allan' - we WILL meet again!  I know Mom will warmly welcome you in that great unknown - unseen but a breath away.   

Dr Foth - Allan Fotheringham

BOUNTIFUL BLUEBERRIES!​​​  

July 20, 2020

Blueberries

We may not have had a warm start to our summer, here in Vancouver, BC but it sure produced plump, sweet Blueberries.  For a simple treat, I've been enjoying Vanilla Bean Ice Cream topped with these scrumptious berries