Natalie Cross Personal Real Estate Corporation- Your Favourite Realtor

Your credit score can play a significant role in the home-buying process, particularly in securing a mortgage and determining the terms of your loan. Lenders use your credit score to assess your creditworthiness. A higher score indicates that you are a lower-risk borrower, making it easier to qualify for a mortgage. Certain types of loans, such as conventional mortgages, typically require higher credit scores, while government-backed loans like FHA, VA, and USDA loans may have more lenient credit score requirements. Your credit score directly affects the interest rate on your mortgage. A higher credit score typically results in a lower interest rate, which can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
If your score isn’t quite where you would like it to be, don’t fret! You can take steps to improve your credit score, from ensuring you pay bills on time to limiting new credit inquiries, any increase will help lead to lower interest rates, better loan options, and lower overall costs, making it an essential aspect of the home-buying process to focus on.

Location is one of the most critical factors when buying a home because it can significantly impact your lifestyle, property value, and long-term investment.
From proximity to school or your workplace to property taxes to resale value, there is plenty to consider when choosing where you want to buy. Sit down and make a list of what matters most to you, considering how much location can impact.
Location affects not only the immediate living experience but also the long-term financial viability of your home investment. Choosing the right location is crucial to ensuring that your home meets your needs and holds its value over time.

Understanding your budget for buying a home involves several key steps. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Assess your financial situation! What is your total income, expenses, and savings.

2. Determine your debt-to-income ratio. This is the gross monthly income that goes towards paying debts. The typical goal is 36% or lower.

3. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This gives you an estimate of how much you can borrow based on your financial profile

4. Calculate your down payment and factor in closing costs. Your down payment can vary depending on the type of mortgage or loan you plan to use and closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the purchase price.

5. Estimate your monthly mortgage payment. A mortgage calculator can help you with this and from there, you can ensure that payment comfortably fits within your budget.

The 1 percent rule is a good standard because it's so easy to remember. Just put aside 1 percent of the total purchase price of your home for home maintenance repairs. A $250,000 home would require you to save $2,500 annually, or about $209 per month.
Remember this is a rough estimate that doesn’t consider labor costs or materials, and other factors can contribute to this base price. It is a great starting place to ensure any unexpected expenses can be taken care of without stress.

So you’re getting ready to buy a house. Congratulations! Before you start picking out decor, there’s something you need to consider: Is your budget ready to handle monthly mortgage payments?

If you’re not buying with cash, this is an important question to ask. Knowing what can be included in a monthly mortgage payment and how much home you can actually afford are key steps to finding a home that will fit your long-term goals.

To get a better grip on what you’re paying, why you’re paying it, and for how long, consider this list of what can be included in a typical monthly mortgage payment and ask questions about any items you are unsure about!

Getting your house ready to sell involves a combination of cleaning, repairing, and staging to make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare your home for the market:

1. Clean and Declutter
2. Make Necessary Repairs
3. Enhance Curb Appeal
4. Stage the Home As Needed
5. Set the Right Price
6. Prepare for Showings
7. Work with Professionals

By following these steps, you can enhance your home’s appeal, attract potential buyers, and potentially achieve a quicker sale at a better price.

Curb appeal is crucial for several reasons, particularly when it comes to selling a home:

1. First Impressions: Curb appeal is the first impression potential buyers have of a property. A well-maintained exterior can create a positive initial impact, making the home more attractive and inviting.

2. Increased Value: Homes with strong curb appeal often have higher perceived value. Buyers are willing to pay more for a property that looks well-cared-for from the outside, as it suggests that the home has been maintained throughout.

Investing time and effort into improving curb appeal can significantly impact the attractiveness and value of your home, making it a worthwhile consideration for both sellers and homeowners looking to enhance their property.

NEW LISTING 😍

C526 - 8150 207 Street ✨
Willoughby, Langley 📍
2 Bedrooms + Den 🛌
2 Bathrooms 🛀
960 Sq Ft 📐
2 Parking Stalls Side by Side 🚙
1 EV Charger + 1 Roughed-In EV 🔌
Courtyard Facing Balcony 🌄
5th Floor + Move In Ready 🌹
Listed at $679,999 🫶

Discover this sparkling, meticulously maintained condo on the serene side of Union Park by Polygon, where small-town charm harmoniously blends with vibrant city living. The well-designed 2-bedroom layout provides optimal privacy with bedrooms situated on opposite ends. A versatile den offers the flexibility to serve as an office, reading nook, or play area for children. Enjoy the airy ambiance with overheight ceilings. The kitchen features engineered stone countertops, ample soft close cabinetry, and a convenient island for casual dining. The luxurious master ensuite includes a spa-like shower with bench seating and dual sinks. Additional perks include two generously sized parking stalls near the elevator, an EV charger as well as a roughed in EV option on the secondary stall. The community offers a playground, garden, BBQ terrace, and open lawn. Plus, the 12,000 sq ft Union Club provides resort-style amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, lounge, fitness room, gymnasium, dog wash, and more.

When you send a DM with a cute family memory and they surprise you with the most thoughtful package in the mail 🫶❤️🐓

NEW LISTING ✨

#212 11665 Haney Bypass 📍

Move in Ready Maple Ridge Condo 💗
2 Bedrooms + Den 🛌
2 Bathrooms 🚿
1 Parking 🚗
1 Pet Allowed (Dog or Cat)
1 Storage Locker 🧢
Freshly Painted 🎨
Brand New Carpets ❤️
Listed at $549,900 ✨

Welcome to Haney’s Landing! This generous 2 BDRM + DEN unit features an open-concept layout with bedrooms situated on opposite ends for added privacy. It also includes a versatile den/office space, perfect for remote work. Enjoy the fresh look with new carpet installed and a fresh coat of paint throughout. The unit comes with 1 parking spot and 1 storage locker. Located just steps from the WCE train station, shopping, and recreational amenities, including a new playground and off-leash dog park. Located on the quiet side of the building and designed for both practicality and ease, this home is sure to impress.

NEW LISTING 😍

#316 - 20078 Fraser Highway
Langley City Condo 📍
1 Bedroom 🛌
1 Bathroom 🛁
1 Parking 🚙
1 Storage Locker 📚
Pets Allowed 🐶
Gas Range Stove 🫶
Listed at: $470,000 💰

West-facing, cozy 1 Bed 1 Bath condo offers a warm, homey feel with its open-plan gourmet kitchen featuring elegant granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a gas range. The spacious bedroom includes custom walk-thru closets and a full cheater ensuite. Relax on your covered balcony with a sunset view and gas connection. Pet-friendly with no size limit and a nearby dog park. Enjoy the convenience of being close to parks, Willowbrook Shopping, Costco, restaurants, transit, major routes, and the future Skytrain line. An excellent investment opportunity!

Successfully managing the sale of your current home and the purchase of a new one requires careful planning and coordination. By understanding these aspects and seeking professional help, you can make the process smoother and less stressful. Know that you’re not alone: 71% of buyers are also, simultaneously, sellers. The key to success on both ends of the deal is having a realtor to guide you through. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, the best thing to do is to talk to a pro who can ease your worries. We are here to help you through every step of the journey - let’s talk today!

Skipping a home inspection can be risky for several reasons. Home inspections reveal potential problems that may not be visible during a casual walkthrough. This can include structural issues, electrical or plumbing problems, and issues with the roof or foundation. Identifying issues before purchasing helps you avoid unexpected repair costs. If major problems are found, you might be able to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller. Overall, a home inspection is a crucial step in the home-buying process that helps protect your investment and ensures you’re making a well-informed decision.

There’s good reason why Union Park in Willoughby built by is such a sought after complex. It grants their residents exclusive access to their very own 85,000-square-foot lush private park and 12,000-square-foot clubhouse 🤩🤩🤩

Check out my stunning new listing facing the exceptional courtyard 🏆

C526 - 8150 207 Street ✨
Willoughby, Langley 📍
2 Bedrooms + Den 🛌
2 Bathrooms 🛀
960 Sq Ft 📐
2 Parking Stalls Side by Side 🚙
1 EV Charger + 1 Roughed-In EV 🔌
Courtyard Facing Balcony 🌄
5th Floor + Move In Ready 🌹
Listed at $679,999 🫶

Discover this sparkling, meticulously maintained condo on the serene side of Union Park by Polygon, where small-town charm harmoniously blends with vibrant city living. The well-designed 2-bedroom layout provides optimal privacy with bedrooms situated on opposite ends. A versatile den offers the flexibility to serve as an office, reading nook, or play area for children. Enjoy the airy ambiance with overheight ceilings. The kitchen features engineered stone countertops, ample soft close cabinetry, and a convenient island for casual dining. The luxurious master ensuite includes a spa-like shower with bench seating and dual sinks. Additional perks include two generously sized parking stalls near the elevator, an EV charger as well as a roughed in EV option on the secondary stall. The community offers a playground, garden, BBQ terrace, and open lawn. Plus, the 12,000 sq ft Union Club provides resort-style amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, lounge, fitness room, gymnasium, dog wash, and more.

Preparing your kids for a big move can help ease the transition and minimize stress. Here are some tips to help your children adjust to the change:

• Communicate Early: Let your kids know about the move as early as possible. Use age-appropriate language to explain why you’re moving and what they can expect. This helps them process the information gradually.

• Involve Them in the Process: Give your children a sense of control by involving them in the moving process. Let them help with packing their belongings, choose colors for their new room, or even select new furniture if possible.

By addressing your children's needs and feelings during the move, you can help them transition more smoothly and start enjoying their new home.

Home buyers often place a high value on storage for several reason. Ample storage helps keep a home organized, reducing clutter and making it easier to find and access items. Buyers appreciate the ability to neatly store personal belongings, which enhances the home's overall functionality and appeal. Good storage solutions maximize the use of available space. Features like walk-in closets, built-in shelves, and cabinets make a home feel more spacious and efficient, which is particularly appealing in homes with limited square footage. Overall, ample storage enhances a home's functionality and livability, making it a highly sought-after feature for many buyers.

There are several myths about buying a home that can mislead prospective buyers. Some of the most common are listed here. While the internet is a great source of information, it will always serve in your best interest to check in with real estate professionals when you aren’t sure. Being aware of these myths can help you make more informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls in the home-buying process.

NEW LISTING ❤️
C526 - 8150 207 Street ✨
Willoughby, Langley 📍
2 Bedrooms + Den 🛌
2 Bathrooms 🛀
960 Sq Ft 📐
2 Parking Stalls Side by Side 🚙
1 EV Charger + 1 Roughed-In EV 🔌
Courtyard Facing Balcony 🌄
5th Floor + Move In Ready 🌹
Listed at $679,999 🫶

Discover this sparkling, meticulously maintained condo on the serene side of Union Park by Polygon, where small-town charm harmoniously blends with vibrant city living. The well-designed 2-bedroom layout provides optimal privacy with bedrooms situated on opposite ends. A versatile den offers the flexibility to serve as an office, reading nook, or play area for children. Enjoy the airy ambiance with overheight ceilings. The kitchen features engineered stone countertops, ample soft close cabinetry, and a convenient island for casual dining. The luxurious master ensuite includes a spa-like shower with bench seating and dual sinks. Additional perks include two generously sized parking stalls near the elevator, an EV charger as well as a roughed in EV option on the secondary stall. The community offers a playground, garden, BBQ terrace, and open lawn. Plus, the 12,000 sq ft Union Club provides resort-style amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, lounge, fitness room, gymnasium, dog wash, and more.

The time it takes for a home buyer to find a house can vary widely depending on several factors. These can include market conditions, location, price range, and certain personal circumstances. On average, in a balanced market, buyers might find a home within a few weeks to a few months. In highly competitive markets, it might take longer as buyers need to act quickly and may face multiple offers on desirable properties. It’s also not uncommon for buyers to take several months or even over a year to find the right home, especially if they have very specific requirements or are waiting for market conditions to shift.

An expired listing isn’t entirely unusual, and some properties may go through more than one listing period before selling. If you’re a seller, an expired listing can be an opportunity to reassess and refine your approach to getting your home sold. If the property is re-listed, there will be a review of feedback from the previous listing period and suggested changes to improve the property’s appeal or pricing. An expired listing often prompts a reassessment of the property’s value and strategy. The seller might need to consider market conditions, buyer feedback, and potential improvements.

NEW LISTING ✨

#212 11665 Haney Bypass 📍

Move in Ready Maple Ridge Condo 💗
2 Bedrooms + Den 🛌
2 Bathrooms 🚿
1 Parking 🚗
1 Pet Allowed (Dog or Cat)
1 Storage Locker 🧢
Freshly Painted 🎨
Brand New Carpets ❤️
Listed at $549,900 ✨

Welcome to Haney’s Landing! This generous 2 BDRM + DEN unit features an open-concept layout with bedrooms situated on opposite ends for added privacy. It also includes a versatile den/office space, perfect for remote work. Enjoy the fresh look with new carpet installed and a fresh coat of paint throughout. The unit comes with 1 parking spot and 1 storage locker. Located just steps from the WCE train station, shopping, and recreational amenities, including a new playground and off-leash dog park. Located on the quiet side of the building and designed for both practicality and ease, this home is sure to impress.

Open House hosted by 🏠
Saturday August 3rd 1-4 PM

23338 Francis Avenue 📍
Heart of Fort Langley ❤️
4 Bedrooms 🛌
2.5 Bathrooms 🚿
Lots of Parking 🚗 🚙 🚗 🚙
Large Recreation Room in the Basement 🃏
Tastefully Renovated 😍
New Gutters with Leaf Guards 🍂
Updated Windows and Brand New Fence 🪟
Separate Entrance to Basement 🚪
$1,749,000 💰

Nestled in the heart of Fort Langley, 23338 Francis Avenue is truly a rare gem waiting to be discovered. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 2.5 lavish bathrooms featuring heated floors and a rain shower, not to mention a spacious recreational room in the basement - this home offers a level of elegance and comfort that is seldom found. The tasteful renovations, including a chef’s kitchen with new cabinets, quartz countertops, elegant light fixtures and brand new appliances to elevate the living experience to unparalleled heights. The landscaped yard features a magnolia, willow, maple, and cherry tree, with a deck, patio and yard creating a private space to entertain your loved ones. This home features ample parking and space to store all your favourite possessions. With a price that can’t be beat, this move-in ready residence presents a unique opportunity to own a truly exceptional property in an exclusive location. Don’t miss your chance to own this rare find in the heart of Fort Langley. 🏡💎

Lenders use your credit score to assess your creditworthiness. A higher credit score indicates to lenders that you are more likely to repay your loan on time. This can improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. Generally, borrowers with higher credit scores qualify for lower interest rates, which can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. By understanding the role of your credit score and taking steps to maintain or improve it, you can enhance your ability to qualify for a mortgage with favorable terms when you're ready to buy a home.

Getting final loan approval means you need to keep your finances and credit in line during the underwriting phase. Don’t open new credit lines or make any major purchases until the paperwork is signed, and avoid changing jobs before closing too, if possible.

Viewing listing photos online is helpful, but isn’t a substitute for visiting homes in person and getting to know the area and its amenities. In some cases, the right neighborhood might be even more important than the home itself. Be specific with your agent about exactly what kinds of homes you want to see, so they can more effectively find options that meet your criteria. And keep an open mind: You may not be able to check off everything on your wish list, so prioritize must-haves over things that are nice to have but not crucial.

So grateful for all my clients and this sweet stage of life 🤍

The down payment is often considered the biggest home-buying expense, since it’s a large amount that the buyer has to actually pay upfront. But homeownership involves plenty of additional costs that you should be ready for. Before you even close on the purchase, you’ll need to make sure you have enough money set aside to cover closing costs. These fees will vary by state and by individual transaction, but they will almost certainly range into the thousands of dollars.