Why not book a private showing (or tour of listings) with an unbiased local agent, rather than just visiting random open houses in Canmore?
It’s so common for folks in town for the weekend or a holiday to think about viewing local properties. Why not? With so much beautiful scenery and a blossoming community, Canmore is a truly special place to live or visit! Curiosity may lead to a quick look at public listings, and next thing you know, you’re out looking for those all-too-familiar “Open House” signs we tend to see on street corners…
The thing is, while this can be fun, if you’re really interested in learning about real estate in Canmore and understanding the market here – you’re much better off to avoid open houses and book a private viewing or tour instead.
Let’s chat about why:
As always, if you have questions about a property listing, neighbourhoods, living or investing in Canmore, or anything about our community – connect with me personally. I’m always available via text, call or email and no question is too small!
Generally, when you visit a Canmore open house or builder show home, the person hosting the open house is there to work in the best interests of their client – the Seller – of that property. Period.
And thats fine!
Of course we know they’re there to work for the Seller. But – it’s important to know that you are only a customer to them. The Seller of that property is their client; this means they owe a specific set of duties to the Seller that they do not necessarily owe to you.
When you view a property with an agent engaged to represent you as a Buyer, you have a dedicated professional in your corner, working exclusively in your best interests. You get access to any market data or sales history you want, plus an opinion that is focused only on your needs and goals from the start.
Oh – and there’s also no cost to you for this service when you work with me.
When you’re considering an important purchase, such as a home or investment property, I think 99% of people would agree it may not be the best idea to go with “whoever happens to be at hand.” It’s not like you’re walking in the door to purchase an outfit off the rack or a Swiss watch, after all.
We are in an incredibly active marketplace with highly priced properties and important dynamics to understand. When is the best time to Buy? To Sell? What are prices doing right now, and why? Is there value in a property, or is it priced a bit too ambitiously for what it is?
Truly understanding the marketplace means getting a broader perspective from more than just the odd property with its door open on a weekend. Dropping in on a few Canmore open houses can be good – but speaking with a trusted professional REALTOR means getting the information you need to make concise decisions you can be confident in.
When you book a private tour with your own agent, we can view at (essentially) and day or time. Most Canmore open houses tend to be just a short window, perhaps 2-4pm on Saturdays and sometimes Sundays. Maybe that doesn’t work for your schedule, and frankly, most of the best properties will sell within just a few days of listing (they won’t wait for a weekend).
So why not view when it makes the most sense for you? Let’s check out a few properties in the AM, then you can head for a hike in the afternoon. Or catch fresh tracks at Lake Louise, then view your next condo before dinner.
Why its Key to book a few showings together: When you view 2-4 properties in succession, you get a better sense of their value, because you can compare them against each other. You’re not being pigeonholed into one property being shown in its best light. No, we don’t need to view 10 homes. But looking closely at a couple may surprise you as you learn more about what you’re truly after.
You’re searching for a home, second home, or vacation rental in Canmore to have a place you can enjoy. It should be FUN searching for the right one!
I’ve helped dozens and dozens of families purchase properties and build portfolios in our area. Making sure you have an enjoyable time learning about the market, viewing properties, and through the offer and closing process is a big part of what I do. You should be comfortable every step of the way.
I love kicking the tires on properties, finding surprising hidden gems, and learning more about each and every home I enter. But what really excites me is meeting new people, learning about families, and solving problems (apologies in advance – I’m addicted to talking to people).
If you’re coming to Canmore soon, or in town reading this right now, let’s connect. If you’re truly interested in a certain home, or in learning about our marketplace, we can get the conversation started and take the next step together. Sometimes we can view on short notice, but generally with a bit of lead time, we can line up some really fantastic properties to view (if the right ones are on the market).
I’m always available directly via text, call or email so feel free to reach out. No question is too small and I’m here to help.
Cheers!