Dianne's Blog

My Thoughts & Passions to Share with You

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

I am a PET-FRIENDLY REALTOR®

Don't be led down the Garden Path!
September 21, 2023

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

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

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What, exactly, am I referring to?

I want to be candidly open regarding SELLERS 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.

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 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 promptly vs the Agent's interests. Overpricing 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; balanced choices are key to successful transactions.

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 agent had listed the home, with the SELLER'S best interests at heart from the get-go! This is NOT the path SELLERS want to take.

Presently, the Residential Listing inventory in the Vancouver Lower Mainland is slowly increasing but with slow sales along with rising mortgage interest rates by the Bank of Canada - possibly to continue.

With mortgages being less available for BUYERS to obtain there are fewer BUYERS;
BUYERS are not going to pay for an overpriced listing, instead, they are downsizing expectations;
or cannot afford to buy the home they desire and are waiting for better circumstances hoping for rate reductions and an increased selection of Listings.

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 promptly before prices begin to tumble with increased competition as the inventory increases.

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. 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 for their best interests. 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.

Please don't hesitate to contact me, if you are considering Selling your home or condo. If you are seeking to purchase, I'm always at your service and have an uncanny ability to find the home you desire. Along with Allan, we promise you integrity and diligence in all your Real Estate business dealings - always with a smile!

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 home Owners will be looking to down or upsize as the better weather approaches and/or other home Owners 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 definitely 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

ENJOY MY NEWSLETTER ~ REFERRALS ARE WELCOME!

January 28, 2023

CONTACT DIANNE

HAPPY YEAR OF THE RABBIT!

January 17, 2023

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

February 2, 2022

Welcome to the Year of the Tiger!
Residential Housing Inventory Increasing - List Now!

January 30, 2022

I hope that you are all beginning 2022 with good health and a positive outlook for the days and months ahead that are looking brighter! The Lunar New Year or Year of the Tiger begins on February 1, 2022. All possibilities exist to inspire us to move forward!

I proudly work beside Allan Angell, the Co-Owner/Co-Founder of Angell Hasman & Associates Rlty. Ltd. Our combined skills and experiences, synchronize well offering our Clients superb professional Real Estate Services to reach their desired results. Our skilled communication and attention to detail, are key.

We are both natural 'People Persons' which allows our Buyers and Sellers to feel at ease and know they are working as a Team with competent, trustworthy REALTORS®, for their best interests;

while we all enjoy the process from start to finish.

Allan's astounding, in-depth analysis of the Real Estate Market Statistics is unparalleled by other Agents. His data is invaluable for pricing Listings appropriately and negotiating Offers. Allan is an exceptional 'Closer' with his decades of highly successful transactions. I will be sending out another email shortly, sharing some highlights of his most recent Market analysis.

As the Real Estate Profession has evolved, a strong element of creativity is another key to marketing Listings with a high profile and wide audience via Social Media, e.g. Instagram, LinkedIn, etc. Creativity fuels my marketing skills; offering our Sellers attractive, high-profile exposure for their residences, using videos and other eye-catching content. A powerful visual presence is very important.

I understand that to 'listen' to Clients is imperative, while applying my intuitive strengths, to seek out homes that match our Buyers' housing desires.

Over the past months, there has been a very low inventory of homes for sale which is presently increasing. If you wish to put your home on the market, it's an auspicious time to do so, before the Inventory suddenly increases in the Spring and your Residential Listing has greater competition.

Mortgage rates are increasing steadily this year, predicted to begin in March 2022 and to continue throughout the year; thus, Buyers & Sellers are wise to be motivated to act now!

Allan and I are delighted to invite you to sit down and discuss with us your Real Estate questions and wishes for the coming year. You can 'Expect the Best' from us. Remember the old saying: "He who hesitates . . . . . "

HAPPY NEW YEAR, 2022!

January 12, 2022

Before mid-January arrives - yikes - where do the days go - my kitties (Shay Joy, Chloe & Angel) and I want to wish everyone a very upbeat, launch to our New Year: 2022!

Personally, I closed off 2021 with a joyful, loving 'White Christmas' with family, in contrast to last year where we all had to stay separated. Younger brother, Warren (above) is back to Vancouver Island as work beckons but wonderful to all be together again, with other brother Mike and me for a cozy Christmas celebration. To me, family IS everything important in life.

Let's take the best thoughts and events from 2021 and carry them forward into this New Year, 2022! Here's to a healthy, productive, and prosperous adventure ahead, full of memorable moments as we journey ahead with positivity!

Perfect Pumpkin Pose!

November 1, 2021

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.

Legal Advice: EV Charging Stations for Strata Corps.

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

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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!

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.

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!

PATIO HEATERS

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend!

October 10, 2020

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend! Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and feel grateful for all of the blessings each of us have in our lives - despite the hurdles that we all inevitably face!

Wow - what a year 2020 has been - Covid challenges all so unexpected - but that's life, right; we never know what's around the bend on our Journeys. Its hard to grasp how fast this year is evaporating - one day seems to melt into the next - keeping us all wondering what each day will bring. I believe a positive, but realistic mindset is the best way to navigate.

It's all too easy to allow ourselves to focus on negatives that affect ourselves and our loved ones. A slight shift in our thoughts and perspectives can be great 'mind medicine' which is connected our both our mental and physical health. The mind/body connection is powerful and can literally change your life and well being.

I've become very aware of finding happiness in each day and grateful over small things in between the frustrations: like that first cup of coffee in the morning; seeing my kitties happy being loved/fed and protected and enjoying my Profession interacting with people from all walks of life; always looking forward to open doors and new Clients! Of course, I'm always delighted and very grateful for big gifts that land in life, too!

This Thanksgiving I'm feeling contented and very GRATEFUL: especially for the love of my family (albeit not a family gathering this year due to Covid 19); for the care and love our Mom gifted her children through life (who I know is close at hand in spirit) my beloved pets; 'true-blue' friends; all with good health and enjoying life, each in their own ways - SAFELY with masks and consideration of others! I also feel so fortunate to live in West Vancouver, British Columbia - my Lifetime Hometown.

Filled with all of this happy, positive energy - I'm sending it out to the World - whether it's your Thanksgiving or not! Enjoy your weekend - rain or shine - because there are better times ahead - soon!

(Please click video for music!)

Indoor Plants Yearning for Light?
September 21, 2020

When I moved to my new home last year, I was delighted but concerned about the lack of sunlight for my Weeping Fig (Ficus) Trees, in particular, as they were used to living in a very bright, ocean front environment! I love my plants indoors and outside. Figs are very temperamental and the slightest change can cause them to drop all their leaves. My concerns were well founded: My much loved, sizeable, Ficus Trees were dropping leaves and becoming sparse; horrors! I tried putting a regular light on them and some little leaves had grown but with weak branches etc.

Yesterday, I'd had enough and decided to hang a grow light over them in a dark corner of my living room. I got a Full Spectrum, Feit LED, blue light fixture that I believe will be their savoir: very easy to attach to the ceiling (I used the stick on hooks so as not to damage my ceiling); light weight and around $60 Cnd. It's is a pleasant sunlit effect being blue light vs the rose or purple grow lights that look like you live in Dracula's house!

After I had tidied up the dead leaves and pruned a bit, I felt so much better, knowing I was giving my trees (one that I'd had for decades!) the necessary care they required. I have every belief that they will return to their glorious beauty. Stay tuned!

UPDATE: OCTOBER 23/20

I'm delighted to report that my much loved Weeping Figs, are reviving with the Led Grow Light growing fresh green leaves. After I brought in my Orchids from the patio over the summer, I placed them at the bottom of the Fig trees and now they will benefit from the extra light!

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