Since first-time buyers have no past real estate experience to fall back
on, they have it the worst. However, even seasoned Canadian property
owners may be stuck when it comes to knowing who to turn to for accurate
information, not a sales pitch.
The following experts can provide impartial, knowledgeable services and
practical advice relevant to a range of home-related decisions. Most
professionals on the list below are backed by professional or trade
associations that often provide local contacts and hiring tips. Some
work for non-profit organizations, others operate businesses or work for
large corporations. You may also discover a few innovative professionals
offering brand-new or area-specific services.
"Buyer be aware" is still the best approach. Weigh free evaluations and
inspections carefully since the donated service may include a hidden
bias. In all cases, it is a good idea to ask what help any referring
organization will provide if you have problems with the service provided
or the experts involved.
Air quality inspectors assess interior air quality to
identify problem areas and solutions for improving air quality. This is
important for those with respiratory conditions or allergies. ( Also see
PJ's April 9 article, "Canadians Unaware of Radon, a Silent Killer [ Canadians Unaware of Radon, a Silent Killer ]". )
Appraisers provide independent estimates of property
value. Fees may differ with appraisal designation, e.g. AACI , CRA, MVA
[bullet] Architects and home designers help transform living
spaces to enhance comfort, home safety and real estate value. They can
also assist with aging-in-place renovations or adding
wheelchair-accessibility features. Their skills can help you get the
greatest benefit from what you want to invest.
Building contractors and renovators estimate
renovation practicality and cost. A contractor's advice is useful for
assessing the feasibility of adding an accessory apartment or suite,
renovating a home or dividing a large house or room into two units.
Energy-efficiency inspectors offer advice on reducing
energy costs (heating and cooling) and improving home comfort.
Fire fighters and fire inspectors check homes for fire
hazards and make suggestions on improving home safety. This service is
usually delivered free as a community service.
Home inspectors with engineering credentials are able to
determine the soundness of a building and evaluate the type and cost of
necessary repairs and modernization. They are helpful in determining the
extent and cost of renovations necessary and in evaluating property
condition before buying.
Landscape architects and gardening consultants add value
and utility to a property. They can transform an overly-demanding garden
into a practical, low-maintenance asset or redesign entrance areas,
patios and flower beds to accommodate baby strollers or wheelchairs.
Real estate developers and municipal planners analyze
the possibility of developing your property to increase the financial
return on the property or to combine accommodation for the owner with
income-generating or saleable units.
Real estate professionals offer assistance selling and
buying property, estimating market value, assessing renovation potential
and arranging financing. They may also be helpful in investigating and
evaluating alternative housing choices. Real estate brokers and
salespeople offer many complimentary services. They operate under agency
law and are legally obligated to provide more consumer support than
"buyer beware."
Copyright 2002. PJ Wade. Reprinted from "Your Guide to Caring for
Your Aging Parents" (Coles Publishing 2001 ISBN 0-7740-0613-7) with
permission from the author. www.TheCatalyst.com
Published: May 28, 2002
Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.
 Futurist and Strategist PJ Wade is "The Catalyst" - intent on "Challenging The Best to Become Even Better." PJ earned this title by translating the dynamic impact of Boomers and their multi-generation families into relevant insights that start people thinking and taking action—in business and in life.
Author of 8 books and more than 1800 published articles, PJ encourages individuals to become their own futurist. PJ writes and speaks about the insight, knowledge and solid decision-making skills that professionals and their clients need to live and work in this vortex of change. For instance, since PJ knows that home is headquarters for the new decades-long "unretirement," she wrote the popular book "Reverse Mortgages: Best Friend, Worst Enemy...Your Choice!", which is filled with suggestions and cautions on protecting, building and managing home equity. Her new business book, "What's Your Point?: Cut The Crap, Hit The Mark & Stick!" will be published in 2012.
As The Catalyst, PJ provides strategic communication, client appreciation and advanced education services to the financial, tourism, lifestyle and service sectors - and the clients they serve. A frequently-quoted financial and business commentator, PJ is a thought-provoking strategic speaker who offers practical, real-life suggestions on leaving "the box" behind and embracing Forward Thinking - a talent she regularly demonstrates in this column. For more on keynotes, blogs, books and information on a range of 21st-Century topics, visit TheCatalyst.com. |
