A Personal Note from Rees & Kari –
It’s hard to believe that 2017 is coming to a close and the holiday season is upon us!! While this has been a very successful year in real estate sales for the SMITH & GRIFFITH REAL ESTATE TEAM, we also recognize that this year has been challenging for many in our province, country and around the world. Our team feels very blessed to have amazing clients and the opportunity to help clients accomplish their real estate goals.
While Rees has been a fully licensed Realtor® for over 16 years, Kari recently completed the Rural Property Program at the Real Estate Council of Alberta. Kari is now fully licensed to sell residential, acreages, bare land, farms and ranches. Our skill set earned in formal education and backed by professional experience gives our clients peace of mind when talking to either of us. Our clients can be assured that they will receive the highest quality advice and customer service in the industry.
We would like to express our thanks to a few people who have helped us this year with the branding of our new team: Aspen Point Productions – Tim Lane, Bill Marsh Photography – Bill Marsh, our good friend and business associate – Jason Wellman, our team member and business manager – Charlene Dittmer and our CIR Broker Delegate Manager – David Anderson.
The energy sector seems to have stabilized with a modest uptick in activity and that means better times ahead for those that have remained in or entering the industry. Agriculture has continued to be a leading segment in the Alberta economy and in 2017 has seen a rapid rise of farmland values in several regions of the province. Continued strong demand for farmland in most areas is outpacing supply leading to significant price per acre increases that can be seen rising monthly. When selling your land there are many factors to consider, so call us for advice on the best approach to maximize your net dollars.
The residential market seems to be inching closer to a balanced market, however the market is still skewed in favor of buyers taking advantage of soft demand in most segments as we make a slow climb toward economic recovery. Apartment style condo and high-end acreage markets are showing the most resistance to turning the corner. Whether buying or selling, give us a call to put a plan in place to make your move happen.
In 2017, we have witnessed interventions in the real estate market by our federal government. The intention to “cool off” over-heated markets in Vancouver and Toronto with regulations has led to mortgage rules that do not translate well and have unanticipated negative effects in different regions of our vast country. The new regulations in place and mortgage qualification changes coming in January of 2018 will have a significant effect on the affordability of housing. Call us for more information on these changes and details as to how it may affect your home buying decision!
Thank you for your support, business and well wishes over this past year. Our business is growing because of referrals from clients and friends like you, and we thank you for your thoughtfulness in passing on our name. We’d love to assist others, so please don’t hesitate to send friends and family our way. We promise to provide them with great service!