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        <title>Blog</title>
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        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/extinguish-home-fire-fears/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/extinguish-home-fire-fears/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Extinguish Home Fire Fears</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Fire extinguishers are an integral part of your home fire safety plan. Here are some expert-recommended tips to keep in mind:Equip your home“Fire extinguishers should be placed on every level of your home and in common spaces like the kitchen, laundry room and garage,” says Ashley Gocken, a First Alert fire safety expert with Resideo Technologies. “Make sure to store extinguishers in easily accessible places, like under the kitchen sink or mounted on the wall.”Know your ABCsFire extinguishers have specific ratings that indicate what kind of fire(s) they are designed to stop.Extinguishers with a Class A rating can put out fires caused by wood, paper, fabric and other common materials.Class B rated extinguishers are intended for fires fueled by flammable liquids such as gasoline.Class C rated extinguishers are meant for fires caused by electrical equipment, such as frayed cords.For reliable protection, a multi-purpose, or ABC-rated, extinguisher is recommended, such as a rechargeable home model from First Alert.Remember to PASSUsing a traditional fire extinguisher is simple if you remember the acronym PASS:Pull the pin. You hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.Aim low. Point the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire.Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.Assess the fireIn the case of a fire, assess the situation before using your extinguisher. If the fire is big or uncontrollable, evacuate your home and call 911 immediately. If the fire is small enough for you to manage with a fire extinguisher, use the PASS technique to put it out. Remember, the most important thing is that you and others safely evacuate the home.Inspect extinguishers regularlyRegularly examine your fire extinguishers to help ensure they will function properly in the event of a fire emergency. Check your extinguisher’s pressure gauge. If the pointer is in the green zone, your extinguisher is properly pressurized and ready for use. If the pointer is in the red zone, your fire extinguisher should be serviced or replaced. Remember, a fire extinguisher that has been discharged should never be stored without proper recharging by a certified professional.www.newscanada.com

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    <pubDate>Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:51:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/bank-of-canada-reduces-policy-rates-to-425/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/bank-of-canada-reduces-policy-rates-to-425/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Bank Of Canada Reduces Policy Rates To 4.25</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



To learn more click the link Bank Of Canada


The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 4¼, with the Bank Rate at 4½ and the deposit rate at 4¼. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization.


The global economy expanded by about 2½ in the second quarter, consistent with projections in the Bank’s July Monetary Policy Report (MPR). In the United States, economic growth was stronger than expected, led by consumption, but the labour market has slowed. Euro-area growth has been boosted by tourism and other services, while manufacturing has been soft. Inflation in both regions continues to moderate. In China, weak domestic demand weighed on economic growth. Global financial conditions have eased further since July, with declines in bond yields. The Canadian dollar has appreciated modestly, largely reflecting a lower US dollar. Oil prices are lower than assumed in the July MPR. 


In Canada, the economy grew by 2.1 in the second quarter, led by government spending and business investment. This was slightly stronger than forecast in July, but preliminary indicators suggest that economic activity was soft through June and July. The labour market continues to slow, with little change in employment in recent months. Wage growth, however, remains elevated relative to productivity.


As expected, inflation slowed further to 2.5 in July. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation averaged around 2 ½ and the share of components of the consumer price index growing above 3 is roughly at its historical norm. High shelter price inflation is still the biggest contributor to total inflation but is starting to slow. Inflation also remains elevated in some other services.


With continued easing in broad inflationary pressures, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy interest rate by a further 25 basis points. Excess supply in the economy continues to put downward pressure on inflation, while price increases in shelter and some other services are holding inflation up. Governing Council is carefully assessing these opposing forces on inflation. Monetary policy decisions will be guided by incoming information and our assessment of their implications for the inflation outlook. The Bank remains resolute in its commitment to restoring price stability for Canadians.


Information note


The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is October 23, 2024. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR at the same time.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:19:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/calgary-housing-market-sees-shifts/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/calgary-housing-market-sees-shifts/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Calgary Housing Market Sees Shifts</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 













Housing activity continues to move away from the extreme sellers’ market conditions experienced throughout the spring. Easing sales, combined with gains in supply, pushed the months of supply above two months in August, a level not seen since the end of 2022.“As expected, rising new home construction and gains in new listings are starting to support a better-supplied housing market,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. “This trend is expected to continue throughout the remainder of the year, but it’s important to note that supply levels remain low, especially for lower-priced properties. It will take time for supply levels to return to those that support more balanced conditions.”Inventory levels in August reached 4,487 units, 37 per cent higher than last August but nearly 25 per cent lower than long-term trends for the month. Higher-priced properties mostly drove the supply gains, as the most affordable homes in each property type continued to report supply declines.The supply gains were made possible by both an increase in new listings in August and a pullback in sales activity. There were 2,186 sales in August, representing a 20 per cent decline from last year's record high but still 17 per cent higher than long-term averages for the month. The sales declines were driven by homes priced below $600,000.Following stronger-than-expected gains earlier in the year, the pace of price growth is starting to slow. In August, the total unadjusted residential benchmark price was $601,800, six per cent higher than last year and just slightly lower than last month. Year-to-date, the average benchmark price rose by nine per cent.






















 
























Detached

Detached home sales fell by 14 per cent compared to last year, as gains in homes priced above $600,000 were not enough to offset declines in the lower price ranges, which continue to struggle with low supply levels. In August, there were 2,011 detached homes available in inventory, with over 85 per cent priced above $600,000.The improving higher-end supply compared to sales helped push the months of supply up to nearly two months. While market conditions are still tight, this is a significant improvement from the under-one-month supply experienced in the spring. Shifting conditions are relieving some pressure on home prices. In August, the unadjusted detached benchmark price was $762,600, slightly lower than last month but still over nine per cent higher than last year. 

Semi-Detached

With 297 new listings and 172 sales, the sales-to-new-listings ratio in August dropped to 58 per cent, which is more consistent with pre-pandemic levels. This shift supported a rise in inventory levels, and the months of supply rose to nearly two months.While conditions remain relatively tight, the boost in new listings has helped ease some of the pressure on prices. In August, the unadjusted benchmark price was $681,200, a decline from last month but nearly 10 per cent higher than last year. 

Row

New listings row for homes priced above $400,000, contributing to year-to-date growth of nearly 16 per cent. At the same time, slower sales over the past three months have contributed to inventory gains. In August, there were 660 units available, a 75 per cent increase over the exceptionally low levels reported last year. While inventories are still low by historical standards, as with other property types, this shift is helping ease pressure on home prices.The unadjusted benchmark price in August was $461,700, slightly lower than last month but over 12 per cent higher than last August. Monthly adjustments were not consistent across districts, with adjustments in the City Centre, North West, North, and West districts mostly driving monthly declines. Despite the monthly adjustments, year-over-year prices remain higher than last year across all districts and range from a low of 10 per cent in the City Centre to a high of 26 per cent in the East district. 

Apartment Condominium

New listings in August reached 1,001 units, a record high for the month. The gains in new listings were met with a pullback in sales, causing the sales-to-new-listings ratio to drop to 60 per cent and inventories to rise to 1,476 units. Unlike other property types, overall condominium inventory levels were relatively consistent with longer-term trends for the month.Rising inventory and easing sales caused the months of supply to increase to nearly two and a half months, not as high as levels seen before the pandemic but an improvement over the extremely tight conditions seen over the past 18 months. In August, the unadjusted benchmark price was $346,500, similar to last month and nearly 16 per cent higher than last year’s prices. 

REGIONAL MARKET FACTS


Airdrie

New listings in Airdrie continued to rise this month compared to last year. However, with 242 new listings and 172 sales, the sales-to-new-listings ratio remained relatively high at 71 per cent. This prevented a stronger gain in inventory levels and kept the months of supply below two months. The tightest conditions in the market continue to be in the lower price ranges of each property type.While conditions continue to favour the seller, they are not as tight as during the spring months, taking some pressure off home prices. In August, the unadjusted benchmark price was $553,300, similar to last month and nearly eight per cent higher than last year. 

Cochrane

August reported 81 sales and 109 new listings, keeping the sales-to-new-listings ratio elevated at 74 per cent, enough to prevent any gain in inventory levels. With 144 units available, inventory levels are nearly 42 per cent below long-term trends for the month.Persistently tight conditions continue to drive further price growth in the town. In August, the unadjusted benchmark price was $578,600, slightly higher than last month and over eight per cent higher than last year’s levels. Prices have risen across all property types, with the largest gains occurring for apartment-style properties. 

Okotoks

A boost in detached sales supported the rise in August sales compared to last year. The 67 sales in August were met with 84 new listings, pushing the sales-to-new-listings ratio near 80 per cent. This prevented any significant shift in inventory levels, which remain nearly 47 per cent lower than long-term trends.With just over one month of supply, conditions remain relatively tight. The unadjusted benchmark price in August was $622,700, similar to last month and over seven per cent higher than last August.










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    <pubDate>Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:21:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/welcome-to-the-family---august-2024/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/welcome-to-the-family---august-2024/</link>
        <author>websupport@maxwellrealty.ca (MaxWell Realty Admin)</author>
        <title>Welcome to the Family - August 2024</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


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    <pubDate>Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:19:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/how-to-turn-your-home-into-a-smart-home/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/how-to-turn-your-home-into-a-smart-home/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>How To Turn Your Home Into A Smart Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 




Today's news feeds seem to feature endless articles on the promise of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.It can be both awe-inspiring and a little scary.The technology that can turn your house or apartment into a &quot;smart home&quot; is just as cool and can be an excellent investment, helping to increase value when the time comes to sell.While buyers may pay a premium for this technology, knowing how to create a smart home can be confusing.Here are five ideas to get you started.LightsAn ideal first step, smart lights are relatively cheap, and they're as easy to install as changing a light bulb. By downloading an app to run them, you'll be able to control energy use and set mood lighting easily. They're a smart play for outdoor lighting, too.ThermostatAccounting for almost 50 of thermostat sales across Canada now, you should be able to benefit financially from this smart device. You can program energy usage based on occupancy times in your home to ensure the AC or heater isn't running while the place is empty.SecurityYou can impress many buyers with security equipment that's surprisingly cheap and easy to install. Video doorbells like Ring and Nest are just the start of the journey. Your home is likely to sell almost a week faster than average if it features security technology.KeysFront door keys are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Smart door locks allow entry with a voice command or a fingerprint scan. You can also open the door remotely if you need to let in a housekeeper or service person.AppliancesSo much has been written about smart refrigerators and washing machines. Scanning food items placed into a fridge and when they're removed means you can get alerts when you're out of cheese or juice. Washing machine and dryer cycles can be managed remotely on your phone.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:57:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/columbia-valley-real-estate-market/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/columbia-valley-real-estate-market/</link>
        <author>chrisraven09@gmail.com (Chris Raven)</author>
        <title>Columbia Valley Real Estate Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Columbia Valley Real Estate Market


The Columbia Valley boasts vibrant communities and a wide range of activities, making it a desirable location for both permanent residents and vacationers.


The real estate market in the area is diverse, offering options for everyone from first-time homebuyers to retirees looking for a serene retreat.


Median Home Prices





The Columbia Valley


Median sale prices vary depending on the type of property and location. In Invermere, the median sale price for a single-family home is around $850,000, while in Radium Hot Springs it's closer to $750,000.


Condos tend to be more affordable, with a median price in the $500,000 range.


Properties are typically priced fairly and selling within a reasonable timeframe.





Inventory and Demand


There is a healthy level of inventory available, with buyers having a good selection of properties to choose from.


Demand remains high, driven by the area's natural beauty, growing tourism industry, and increasing popularity as a retirement


Demand for vacation properties is high, with many buyers looking for ski-in/ski-out condos and lakefront homes.





Market Forecast


The Columbia Valley real estate market is a diverse and dynamic landscape. The market is expected to remain relatively stable
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    <pubDate>Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:29:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/sold-rural-rocky-view-county/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/sold-rural-rocky-view-county/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>SOLD Rural Rocky View County</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





Congratulations to our buyer &amp; our sellers









We are so pleased for you all &amp; very excited for your futures









If You Are Looking To Buy Or Sell ...


 Give us a call, we would love to help


403-681-0319









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    <pubDate>Mon, 26 Aug 2024 13:15:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/wild-wednesday---goodbye-fingerprints/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/wild-wednesday---goodbye-fingerprints/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Wild Wednesday - Goodbye Fingerprints</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 








Hello Wild Wednesday









Do those fingerprints &amp; streaks on stainless steel appliances drive you crazy?









Don't worry, I got you covered






Use a soft cloth &amp; a small amount of olive oil, buff in the direction of the grain.









Do you have any tips &amp; tricks you are willing to share?









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    <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:31:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/lake-front-living-in-the-columbia-valley/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/lake-front-living-in-the-columbia-valley/</link>
        <author>chrisraven09@gmail.com (Chris Raven)</author>
        <title>Lake Front Living in the Columbia Valley</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 




Laughter and excited shouts filled the air, punctuated by the rhythmic slap of bare feet on the wooden dock. The afternoon unfolds in a lazy succession of swimming, sunbathing, and playful splashing. Nestled amongst towering evergreens, your dream house by the lake stands as a haven of peace and tranquility.



LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION





The Columbia Valley


The Columbia Valley, nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Purcell Mountains, offers stunning scenery and an abundance of outdoor activities. For those seeking a waterfront lifestyle, lakefront homes in the Columbia Valley present an idyllic opportunity.






Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake


Both lakes offer a range of real estate options, from luxury waterfront estates to lakefront cabins. These lakes are equally beautiful with breathtaking views and a family-friendly atmosphere. With limited development and unparalleled natural beauty, Columbia Lake and Windermere Lake are featuring a secluded lakefront experience.






Popular Lakefront Communities


Several communities dot the lakeshore, including Windermere, Invermere, and Canal Flats, each offering its own unique charm and amenities. Popular for watersports and boating opportunities, these communities offer various waterfront properties.


Give us a call at 250-341-6044 to discuss your lake front ownership. 
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    <pubDate>Fri, 16 Aug 2024 14:56:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/just-listed-1245-coopers-drive-airdrie/</guid>
    <link>https://www.elkefraser.com/blog/just-listed-1245-coopers-drive-airdrie/</link>
        <author>info@peshketeam.com (Billy Peshke)</author>
        <title>Just Listed 1245 Coopers Drive, Airdrie</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





JUST LISTED





1245 Coopers Drive SW, Airdrie









1245 Coopers Drive - Listing









1245 Coopers Drive - Virtual Tour









$1,139,000 MLS A2157351









Gorgeous Fully Developed &amp; Upgraded Home, Meticulously Maintained





In Floor Heated in the Basement, Main Floor &amp; Garage





3 Bedrooms, Flex Room + Bonus Room





3.5 Bathrooms





Oversized Tandem Garage With Epoxy Flooring









Call/message us for more details: 403-681-0319









Welcome to your extraordinary sanctuary in the heart of Coopers Crossing, Airdrie This impeccably designed former McKee show home (The Carlingford T floorplan), offers 2656 sq ft up of modern living that seamlessly blends luxury, comfort &amp; functionality +900 sq ft down. Step inside to the grandeur of the main floor, w/exquisite porcelain tile flooring that guides you through the expansive living spaces. The gourmet kitchen is a true culinary masterpiece, featuring quartz countertops, a walk-in pantry w/an under-mount sink &amp; wine fridge. The kitchen includes a built-in oven &amp; microwave, &amp; a 5-burner gas cooktop. The spacious family room is the perfect gathering spot, w/a full-height stone wall fireplace framed by windows &amp; doors on either side, leading effortlessly to the low maintenance outdoor oasis. Enjoy the entry off the garage w/built-in cabinets &amp; benches for seamless storage solutions. Head up on the hardwood stairs to the vaulted bonus room w/a built-in wall unit &amp; electric fireplace, providing a cozy space for relaxation. The primary suite is a tranquil haven, complete w/a vaulted ceiling, walnut feature wall &amp; heated floors in the spa-like ensuite. Indulge in luxury w/dual sinks, a lavish soaker tub, a walk-in shower &amp; an 8-foot storage unit for organization. The upper level features 2 more well-sized bedrooms, a flex room that could serve as a 4th bedroom/den, offering ample space for a growing family. Convenience meets style w/the adjacent laundry room equipped w/cabinets. The fully developed basement is an entertainer's dream, featuring a family room, rec space &amp; a 7.1 audio system for immersive movie nights. Wired speakers throughout the home &amp; on the back deck set the ambiance for any occasion. Step outside to your private oasis Professionally built front &amp; back composite decking with integrated lighting is ideal for unwinding under the stars. This home comes an array of exceptional features, including gemstone lights, an irrigation system with phone app control &amp; a professionally built fence for utmost privacy. The in-floor heated triple car (tandem) garage is a car enthusiast's dream, featuring an epoxy floor, Proslat walls, Gladiator cabinets, massive storage shelving, a utility sink with hot &amp; cold water, garage vacu flow &amp; 12-foot high ceilings—perfect for a car lift. In-floor heating throughout the main floor &amp; basement, air conditioning, a 1080P Lorex security camera system with an alarm system, custom blinds &amp; an 8x10 shed with power. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a home that effortlessly combines luxury, comfort &amp; sophistication in one of Airdrie's most sought-after communities.


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    <pubDate>Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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