Yes, I know it's Monday, but, it's kinda like a Sunday today!
I spent a large part of last week in the future. I've been creating my 2021 Calendar, I think my sixth one, and I'm taking it in a new direction.
We do need a new direction for 2021 don't we?
I'm not sure how much of the inspiration came from Thanksgiving, and how much came from Corey the Corona Cat being a very poor office assistant, but, we are feeling very thankful this year, and we'd like to spread some of that around. So, Corey has been promoted to CEO of the "Corey Cares" project.
Next year, the calendar will highlight a different charity every month that could use some help. Many rely on their annual events to raise money, and, as we know, those had to be cancelled this year. So, we thought that all of us could take a few "kitten steps" to help out. And, have a little fun along the way!
Corey has a few favourites of course. As you know, he came to us homeless and hungry, and he'd like to let you know that there is an entire network of pet food banks out there. (I had no idea!) Did you know that human food banks will also accept pet food? Corey isn't especially fond of dogs, but, he does enjoy watching them from the safety of his window perch, so, dog food is encouraged too. Why not pick up an extra can, or, donate that food you tried that your furry friend wouldn't eat? I'd be happy to pick up & deliver your donations along the way.
We'd also like to hear about your favourite charities. Do you have a "kitten step" idea to share? The more, the merrier!!
Happy ThanksGIVING to all!!

Some weeks, I know what I'll write about on Sunday morning. This was not one of those weeks.
As I looked through my photos, I came across this crooked kitchen, and it seemed to perfectly represent my week. A bit off kilter, and a little bit dizzying.
It was a long and winding road to get to Sunday. Literally. I put in many miles in and around both City and countryside, and, I have a mountain of dishes to let me know I haven't been home much. Some weeks are just like that in my world.
Weeks like this always leave me wondering if I accomplished anything. So, I had to dig through my daytimer (yes, I still use paper!) to recall everything that happened, and find those little nuggets of progress.
I got to spend some real quality time with some truly interesting & creative people, got to walk a 10 acre property on a beautiful fall day, met with my home inspector for the first time in a year (not many inspections happen in this market!), rented out my apartment, and got inspired for a cool new project.
It was one of those weeks that seemed a whirlwind on the surface, but, was actually very nice. There really was no rushing around, just constant movement.
Even though it was a crooked road, it was also pretty satisfying as I look back on it. Except for the mountain of dishes on my counter this morning, lol.

With all this talk of our current "seller's market", I don't want you to think it's impossible to buy right now. It's definitely challenging, but, it's certainly doable.
In most cases, buyers are competing for property at the offer stage, and the seller will have choices as to which offer to accept. So, you must put your best foot forward, and convince the seller you are the best buyer for them.
Preparation, flexibility, patience and persistence are all keys to success in this market. This is the general advice I give to all my buyer clients, regardless of whether they are first timers, move up/down buyers, or investors.
Buying a home really is an emotional purchase in many ways, so, it's most important that you have a clear picture of your financial capabilities, and a good knowledge of market values before the shopping gets serious. Otherwise, you're at risk of becoming slightly irrational in the frenzy of a passion purchase. ;)😉
Having said that, there are also two values ~ market value, and the value to you, whether that's more or less. It pays to keep a level head.
It's also good to have a clear picture of what you NEED to have in your home, and perhaps build in some flexibility with what you WANT in a home. With low inventory, and rising prices, the sooner you can make a purchase, the better, and, that may involve a bit of compromise.
Yes, it can be time consuming, and there may be a few disappointments along the way. But, if you can be patient and persistent, we've got this!