Page 8 - Real Estate Now-Mar/Apr 2022

Beyond Cosmetics: 6 Ways to Focus on a

Property’s Best Assets

Wendy Helfenbaum courtesy REALTOR.ca
ave you ever visited a property and been immediately turned off by what awaited you inside–think ratty old
carpet, dated décor, ancient appliances and wood panelling as far as the eye can see? If so, you’re not alone.
HBut instead of driving right by a home that hasn’t seen a design upgrade in decades, why not look past the
far-from-perfect cosmetic elements and see the good bones of a property that could be perfect for you. Here’s how
to do it.

Focus on a property’s location
“If we’re going into a house that needs some work, I have clients prepped before walking in,” says Laurie Gillis, a
REALTOR® and real estate agent with Team Kerr at Stilhavn Real Estate Services.
“We talk about finding locations they like, because no matter how nice a renovation is, if you hate the location, you
can’t do anything about it. Plus, being on a great block fosters a sense of community.”

Be sure to check out REALTOR.ca neighbourhood guides to find the perfect location for you and your family.
Think about loving the layout

Changing a home’s flow and layout is really expensive, so if a property you’re touring features high ceilings, original
hardwood floors in terrific condition under all that gross pink carpeting and an open-concept living space, try to
imagine that not-so-gorgeous granny wallpaper and flowered sofas out on the curb, suggests Gillis.

8 | REAL ESTATE NOW | denise@BCislandhomes.ca