Lewis Maclean - February 2020

What to Expect From a Property Appraisal

Hint: Don’t Worry About the Clutter

Health & Safety: Does the property have structural integrity and does it comply with proper codes? Size: What’s the square footage of the home and each room? Neighbourhood: Is the property conforming to the neighbourhood? Functional Utility: Is the property functional as built? Do features such as the furnace or fireplace work? Parking: Are the driveways, garages, and carports usable? Other: Curb appeal, lot size, neighbourhood fit, and general curbside details When the appraiser walks around the interior of a home, they look at the overall design, condition, finish work, upgrades, defining features, functional utility, square footage, number of rooms, and health and safety items — including making sure carbon-monoxide and smoke detectors are in working order. They will also check the taps and other plumbing features to make sure everything works correctly. An important point to remember is that an appraisal will provide half the weight in any credit determination involving the security of real estate. As such, any appraisal should be done by a qualified appraiser who is familiar with the neighbourhood as well as the type of home that is being sold, purchased, or refinanced.

Homeowners often get nervous when they know the home appraiser is on the way. They may wonder what they missed and what the appraiser will find. What many people don’t realize is the appraiser already has a solid idea of what the property is worth before they ever see the home in person. At the same time, many people aren’t fully aware of what appraisers are looking for when they determine the value of the property. Homeowners often assume the value of the home is calculated after the appraiser has done a thorough walk-through and inspection of the property. But there is no need to worry. If a home isn’t perfect or there is clutter, the appraiser generally isn’t concerned with these details. Here’s what the appraiser is really looking at. Site: Location, view, topography, lot size, utilities, zoning, external factors, highest and best use of the space, and landscaping features

Design: Quality of construction, finish work, fixed appliances, and any defining features

Condition: Age, deterioration, renovations, upgrades, and added features

VALENTINE ’ S DAYDOGTREATS: CRANBERRYHEARTS

To paraphrase an old saying, the way to a dog’s heart is through their stomach! This Valentine’s Day, treat your dog to some pet-friendly goodies they’re sure to love!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 large eggs • 1 1/2 cups almond flour • 1 tbsp coconut oil

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries • 3–4 tbsp coconut flour

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 325 F. 2. In a small bowl, beat eggs and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine almond flour, coconut oil, and cranberries. Pour in eggs and mix together with your hands until wet dough forms. 3. Mix in 1 tbsp of coconut flour at a time until dough easily forms into a ball. 4. Roll out dough on floured surface and cut with bite-size, heart-shaped cookie cutters. Transfer to cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until treats are crisp. 6. Remove from oven and let treats cool completely before serving. Inspired by Pretty Fluffy

AQUARIUS ASH CHOCOLATE CUPID DONOR

GROUNDHOG LOVE PISCES PRESIDENTS ROMANCE

ROSES SKIING SNOWBANK SUGAR VALENTINE

3 604-532-9625 •

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