There was romance in the air today in our office when Greg Williamson brought in a big bunch of flowers for his lovely wife (and our lovely receptionist) Sue.

Sue was delighted to receive the flowers, and gave Greg a big kiss when he passed them over our reception counter.

Sue and Greg have known each other for 40 years this year
They celebrate 31st wedding anniversary today and also their 31st year in their home at Shorncliffe!!

Congratulations to you both!!

With the Christmas period looming, it’s no wonder that people are saying, “what happened to the year!”  It feels like we've only just packed away last year’s Christmas decorations and here we are once again! 

This year our office has erected an  amazing Christmas Wishing Tree to support the Salvation Army and the wonderful work they do.  If you would like to donate a small gift, you are more than welcome to contribute.  The Salvation Army have informed us that the ages 10-15 years are often overlooked.  Please mark your gift with the age appropriate group, and whether it’s for a male or   female.  The joy of giving sure is greater than receiving. 

Over the last 10 months there has been mixed results for our local market with the number of homes sold down from previous years. The graph below shows houses and units sold from January to October 2014 (Sourced from RP Data) within the 4017 postcode.  Total sales are based on contract date, not settlement date. 

This year so far, property sales figures are showing—Sandgate 92, Shorncliffe 14, Brighton 200, Deagon 80 and Bracken Ridge 265.  For the total number of homes/units in the 4017 this equates to 0.043%. 

From 1 December 2014, the real estate industry in Queensland will be deregulated and four new Acts will take effect.  The previous Property and Motor Dealers Act will be repelled and a new Act will commence.  Changes will benefit consumers and agents alike.  If you are interested in perusing the changes, you can view the new Acts online at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.

There are times when a home is in the perfect location, but it’s standard does not reflect the price.  If major renovations are required, then the price should reflect his.  A little tender loving care, a general cleanup, garden maintenance, house washing, minor repairs, washing walls and replacing light globes etc, all add to the presentation.  If you are thinking of selling, don’t overlook these items - you may just need a mini makeover at a mini price. Watch Selling Houses Australia; they suggest that it all comes down to presentation as first impressions count.  This is what buyers are looking for!

If we can assist you with advice on the presentation of your home, please call one of our team on 3269-1555.  The impact that a few minor changes can make will surprise you. 

A TIME TO ENJOY

On 14 November 2014 a Christmas Wishing Tree will be erected in our office and all gifts donated will be given to the Salvation Army for distribution.  We are encouraging the local community to become involved, and anyone wishing to donate can bring their gifts into our office to place under the tree.  Please tag your gift with the age group and whether it’s suitable for a male or female (the Salvation Army have informed us that the age group 10-15 years is often overlooked).  The gifts will be handed over to the Salvation Army on Friday, 19 December in readiness for Christmas.  All gifts and donations are very welcome. 

Shop Local is a great initiative for any community, and we are very lucky to have such a wonderful supply of small businesses on hand, each one offering great alternatives and an array of services.  From our shop front businesses with their bricks and mortar, to our home based businesses - the ones you don’t see – each and every one survives because of the locals, so get out there and support them!

We've had a trickle of homes coming onto the market but we are still well below normal supply.  Having completed a good number of Comparative Market Analysis reports for home owners recently, one thing is apparent and that’s the simple things that are often overlooked – general maintenance!  Washing walls, light globes working, garden beds cleaned, de-cluttering etc. Getting all these small jobs done still doesn't guarantee a quick sale, just a better presented home and first impressions do count!