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  • Selling a Rental Property in Edmonton: What Landlords Need to Know

    Being a landlord in Edmonton has its rewards, but there comes a time when selling makes more sense than holding. Whether you’re burnt out on managing tenants, looking to cash out your equity, or simply ready to move on, selling a rental property comes with its own unique set of considerations that are very different from selling a primary residence. Here’s what you need to know before you put that rental on the market.

    Your Tenants Have Rights, and So Do You

    In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act governs the relationship between landlords and tenants, and it doesn’t disappear just because you’ve decided to sell. If your property is currently occupied, you cannot simply ask tenants to leave because you’ve listed the home. You must follow proper notice procedures, and in many cases, tenants have the right to remain in the property through the sale. If a buyer intends to occupy the property personally, proper written notice must be given, and timelines must be followed carefully. Skipping this step can delay your closing or expose you to legal liability.

    Tenants Can Complicate Showings

    Even cooperative tenants can make showings difficult. You’re required to give proper notice before entering the property, and a tenant who isn’t thrilled about the sale may not present the home in its best light. Dishes in the sink, personal clutter, and general untidiness are all out of your control. This is one of the biggest reasons landlords choose to sell to an investor rather than listing on the open market, investors buy the property as-is, tenants and all, with no showings required.

    Capital Gains Tax Applies

    Unlike a primary residence, a rental property is not exempt from capital gains tax in Canada. When you sell, you’ll owe tax on 50% of the profit above your adjusted cost base. This is a significant consideration and one worth discussing with a tax professional before you sign anything. Timing your sale strategically,  for example, in a lower income year, can make a meaningful difference in what you owe.

    The Property Doesn’t Need to Be Empty to Sell

    Many landlords assume they need to wait for a tenant’s lease to end before selling. That’s not always true. Investors and experienced buyers purchase tenanted properties regularly. In fact, a property with a reliable, long-term tenant already in place can be an attractive feature for certain buyers.

    You Have Options

    If you’re ready to sell your Edmonton rental property and want to avoid the hassle of showings, tenant negotiations, and months on the market, we can help. At FairKey Home Buyers, we purchase rental properties in any condition, with or without tenants, and we handle the process from start to finish.

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or fill out the form on our website today.

  • 5 Hidden Costs of Holding Onto a Property Too Long in Edmonton

    When Edmonton homeowners decide to sell, most focus on one number: the sale price. But there’s another number that quietly grows every single day you wait, and most sellers never see it coming until it’s too late. That number is the cost of holding.

    Whether you’re between buyers, waiting for the market to shift, or simply undecided about your next move, the carrying costs of an unsold property can add up faster than most people expect. Here’s what’s actually eating into your equity while your home sits.

    1. Your Mortgage Doesn’t Take a Break
      This one sounds obvious, but it’s easy to underestimate. If your monthly mortgage payment is $1,800 and your home sits on the market for four months longer than expected; that’s $7,200 out of pocket, before anything else is factored in. Every month of delay is a month of payments that don’t build you equity in your next home.
    2. Property Taxes Keep Accumulating
      In Edmonton, property taxes are assessed annually but the obligation doesn’t pause because your home is listed. Depending on your assessed value, you could be looking at hundreds of dollars per month in tax obligations on a property you’re no longer living in or benefiting from.
    3. Utilities, Insurance, and Maintenance Add Up Quickly
      A vacant or partially occupied home still needs heat, electricity, and water running, particularly through Alberta winters. Pipes freeze, sump pumps fail, and insurance companies sometimes require active utilities as a condition of coverage. Add in lawn care, snow removal, and the occasional emergency repair, and you’re easily spending $400–$800 per month just to keep the lights on in a home you’re trying to leave.
    4. Your Insurance Premium May Increase
      Many homeowners don’t realize that once a property becomes vacant for 30 days or more, standard home insurance policies can become void, or the premium jumps significantly. Vacancy insurance in Alberta is a real product, and it costs more than your standard policy. If something goes wrong in an unoccupied home and you’re not properly covered, the financial consequences can be severe.
    5. Opportunity Cost Is the Sneakiest Cost of All
      This is the one nobody talks about. While your equity sits locked in an unsold property, it isn’t working for you. Whether you had plans to invest, purchase your next home, pay down debt, or simply get a fresh start; every month of delay is a month that money isn’t in your hands doing what you need it to do.

    So What Can You Do?
    If you’re feeling the pressure of a property that isn’t moving, you have more options than just waiting it out or dropping your MLS price and hoping for the best.

    At FairKey Home Buyers, we work with Edmonton homeowners who need to stop the clock on carrying costs. We buy houses as-is, with no showings, no repairs, and no months of uncertainty. In many cases, we can close in as little as seven days, which means those carrying costs stop almost immediately.

    Sometimes the fastest sale is actually the most profitable one, once you factor in everything you’re no longer paying.

    Curious what your home is worth in a fast cash sale? Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or fill out the form on our website today. There’s no obligation, just a straightforward conversation about your options.

  • Why Won’t My House Sell In Edmonton?

    Is Your Edmonton, AB Home Stuck on the Market?

    You keep hearing the same story in the news:
    The housing market is heating up. Homes are selling fast. Prices are climbing.

    So why is your property still sitting unsold?

    If your house in Edmonton hasn’t attracted the right buyer yet, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is “wrong” with the market. More often, it comes down to a few fixable issues. The following tips can help explain what may be holding your sale back.

    Why Isn’t My House Selling in Edmonton?

    6 Practical Reasons (and What to Do About Them)

    1) Make sure you’re working with experienced professionals.

    Hot markets attract a flood of new agents and investors who promise big results but lack real-world experience. Many struggle with pricing accuracy, financing challenges, and deal execution.

    Because your home is likely one of your most valuable assets, expert guidance matters. Align yourself with professionals who understand the local market and know how to close.

    2) Avoid upgrading beyond market expectations.

    It’s easy to go too far with renovations. Even high-quality improvements don’t always translate into higher value if they exceed neighborhood standards.

    Buyers often prefer to add their own finishing touches. Focus on decluttering, simplifying, and presenting a clean, neutral space rather than expensive customization.

    3) Take care of obvious repairs.

    Unaddressed maintenance issues raise red flags for buyers. Small problems can suggest larger, hidden concerns.

    Handle the basics—repair trim, replace missing fixtures, address minor wear and tear. A professional home inspection and a clean report can reassure buyers and strengthen trust.

    4) Presentation and design influence buyer decisions.

    First impressions matter, inside and out. Exterior appearance sets expectations before buyers ever step inside.

    Fresh paint, maintained landscaping, and a spotless interior make a significant difference. Thoughtful staging or design guidance can help buyers envision themselves living in the home.

    5) Price positioning is critical.

    Strong showing activity with no offers often indicates the price is close—but still too high. Little to no activity usually means the price is missing the mark entirely.

    The market always responds to price. Adjusting early can prevent your listing from becoming stale.

    6) Every home will sell—under the right conditions.

    There’s no guaranteed formula, but experience and flexibility matter.

    If traditional selling methods aren’t producing results, alternative solutions may be worth considering.

    Need to Sell a House Near Edmonton?

    We can help. We buy houses in Edmonton, AB.

    We work with homeowners who need to sell quickly, without repairs, showings, or uncertainty.

    Give us a call anytime 587-401-2627 or fill out the form here today!

  • I Inherited a House, What To Do? – Should I Rent or Sell in Edmonton?

    First, we’re so sorry for your loss. This can be a very challenging time for many reasons, and dealing with property ownership is tough at the best of times.

    You’re thinking, “I inherited a house, what to do with this house?” Should I rent it? Should I sell it?  How should I sell it?

    Tons of options open for you, but…

    … we can help.

    We’re seasoned investors in Edmonton real estate, and we’re looking to buy several houses each month in the Edmonton Alberta area. Every month we get calls from those who have inherited a house and are looking to sell the house… so the info below are some tips to help you navigate the process.

    I Inherited A House, What To Do Next?

    Here’s a few important considerations to help you make the right decision:

    1) Make sure the mortgage is paid.

    This may sound obvious, but if the person who left you a property also had a mortgage (unless it had no mortgage and was paid off, which is great!), you have to pay it (assuming you want to keep the property). Some banks will allow you to assume the loan, while others may force you to refinance into a new loan. If you don’t qualify for a new loan, renting may not be an option for you.

    2) The investment is only as good as the manager.

    If dealing with brokers, maintenance, tenants, rent collection and all the nuances of property management isn’t the best use of your time, hire a professional to help you or cash out now.  Some people who inherit homes decide to keep the house and rent it for extra income. That’s a great strategy for sure. You just need to be prepared to manage the property and the hassles that can go along with tenants and toilets.

    3) Property ownership costs money.

    It’s rare to see a building that’s been perfectly maintained. Most inherited houses need major improvements.

    Consider hiring a professional property inspector to give you a detailed rundown on what you’ll need to do within the next five years, along with estimated costs. Surprises are very, very expensive.

    4) Selling a property for top dollar costs money.

    If you don’t want to deal with making repairs, updating kitchens, improving landscaping and overall cleanup, don’t worry. We buy Edmonton houses for cash, as-is.

    5) If the market will continue to grow faster than your other options, hang on to the investment.

    We can help you analyze the value of your property today versus the long-term benefits of renting. If you can use the equity in your property in another way that outpaces the performance of the real estate market, you should. If you don’t have anything better to do with the money and the neighborhood is rising in value, hang on – real estate can be a great investment if you know how to correctly read the market.

    6) Uncle Sam wants a piece of the action.

    Don’t forget to discuss your inheritance with tax and legal professionals before you take action. There are major property and income tax consequences that will dramatically impact the cost of owning your investment.

    7) Consider all your options.

    In certain situations we may be able to help you structure a lease-option agreement that allows you to rent and sell at the same time – capturing the best of both worlds. These kinds of deals can be complicated, but our Spruce Grove investment experience can help you win.

    8) Compare a few scenarios.

    We’ll help you determine prices for any property near Spruce Grove – if you sold it today without doing any work, the highest price the market will bear, and the projected value of keeping it as a rental (along with the costs).

    Just call us today at 587-401-2627 or contact us now for more information
    on how we can make you a fair cash offer on your inherited house today!

  • Foreclosure notice of default in Alberta– what is it?

    live in Edmonton and get a foreclosure notice of default?

    If you’ve gotten a foreclosure notice of default and want to know what the heck is going on, keep reading.

    Basically, a foreclosure notice of default is a document that has to be filed by a lender to start the process of foreclosure.

    The foreclosure notice of default must be sent to anyone who has an interest in the property (any other loans, lenders, or even contractors who are owed money for work done to a property will get a copy).

    The foreclosure notice of default must also be published in a newspaper and physically posted in a prominent place on the property itself.

    Although this can be really embarrassing to someone going through foreclosure, it’s actually a very important protection for consumers.

    Back before US law required a notice of default, people were sometimes foreclosed on without any warning.

    In fact, it’s happened even in the past few years – at least one bank has accidentally foreclosed on the wrong property and kicked people out of their house without due process or warning. It’s even happened around Spruce Grove.

    The notice of default is a very important step within the foreclosure process that gives people with an interest in the property to step forward and claim their rights – before it’s too late.

    If you’ve received a notice of default, don’t wait. Time is definitely of the essence, and you should take action.

    Here are a few key steps you should take:

    1) Stay calm and don’t panic.

    This may sound obvious, but it’s probably the most important. Anyone in foreclosure is dealing with a lot of stress beyond just the property. These situations don’t happen overnight, and they take a while to solve. You’ll get through it by practicing good coping techniques and taking good care of yourself and your family. Panic leads to bad decisions, so stay cool.

    2) Educate yourself.

    Learn everything you can about the foreclosure process in your state so that you know what’s happening and what’s coming up next.

    3) Gather your resources.

    There’s also many non-profit and government resources available out there. You’ll want good legal and tax advice along the way. Definitely don’t try to do it all yourself. This stuff is super complicated with lots of rules.

    4) Learn your options.

    We’re here to help you avoid foreclosure. We buy houses with cash. We can help you with short sales and even rent-back situations so you (potentially) may be able to keep living in your home. There are many more options than you think.

    5) Communicate.

    The banks involved don’t want your property. They want money, and what you say matters a lot. You can slow down or stop the foreclosure process if you take the appropriate action.

    Want to know more?

    Call us anytime 587-401-2627 or connect with us on our website
    and we’ll lay out all of your options for your specific situation.

  • Help, I’m Behind in My Mortgage Payments in Edmonton – FairKey Home Buyers

    I’m Behind in My Mortgage Payments
    Behind on your mortgage? Read this article for a few tips on what you can to do prevent and avoid foreclosure

    When you fall behind on your mortgage payments on your Edmonton home, it can feel like you’re drowning in debt.

    Even if you’re able to make your monthly payment, catching up on a past due balance can be an overwhelming challenge.

    There are a few options that can help you to avoid foreclosure in Edmonton and maybe even keep your house, even if you’re seriously behind in payments. Lots of properties in Edmonton have been lost to foreclosure, but there are many ways to avoid it.

    Help, I’m Behind in My Mortgage Payments in Edmonton! 5 Things You Can Do To Help Your Situation

    1. Bankruptcy:

    This is usually the tool of last resort. If you’re being crushed by lots of debt, bankruptcy can be a good way to negotiate with lots of lenders at once. It’s a lot of work, and it won’t help you avoid your mortgage. Different lenders will treat your circumstances in unique ways. You’d benefit from serious professional help – the best you can afford.

    2. Reaffirm:

    This can be a good card to play, but it may come with some unseen penalties. Basically, reaffirming the loan is an additional commitment to pay. In some states where it’s allowed, an affirmation can create additional liabilities if your property is auctioned.

    3. Making Home Affordable (MFA):

    If your mortgage qualifies, you might be able to participate in MHA. Any loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac must be considered for MHA, and other lenders choose to participate in MFA.

    With MFA, your payments and/or interest rates might be lowered – even the principal balance (if your home is worth less than you owe). If you’re unemployed, you might be able to get your payments temporarily suspended or reduced.

    MFA is a government program, so be prepared to deal with lots of paperwork. It ain’t free money – you gotta work for it.

    4. Negotiate with your bank:

    Lots of lenders routinely offer some level of assistance. You have to work hard at it, but you might be able to get your interest rate reduced or a temporary reduction in your payment.

    Most of the time, lenders will want to steer you to refinance your loan – but by the time you’re a few payments behind, you probably don’t qualify for a reduction in interest rate.

    You have to work really hard to negotiate with a bank. Usually, it takes lots of calls and the patience of a saint to get through the bureaucracy. Never, ever act rude. Ask for help from everyone you speak with, but don’t sound desperate. Explain your situation, offer supporting documents, and reassure the bank that you want to live in your home for the long term.

    If you’re in need of a temporary fix and want to stay in your home, most banks can be forgiving. Sometimes they’ll be willing to add a few months of payments back onto the primary balance of your loan. It’s all dollars and cents to them, so remind them that you need their help to give them a lot more money in the long run. If they have to sell your house at a foreclosure auction, they’ll take a huge loss.

    That sounds obvious, but for some reason, bankers seem to forget it when saying no to someone in need of help.

    5. Borrow money from a private investor:

    If you’re behind on your payments and need to sell fast, we can help.

    In certain circumstances, we may even be able to help you stay in your home.

    We work with homeowners in Edmonton to find solutions to foreclosure problems.

    We’ll let you know how we can help.

    Give us a call now at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website to get started.

  • The State of the Market for Buyers in Edmonton Alberta

    Is it still a buyer’s market today in Edmonton? As experts in the Edmonton real estate market, we get asked this question a lot.

    The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no.

    The State of the Market for Buyers in Edmonton Alberta

    First off, it really depends on the property type and location.

    Single-family homes in great locations that are priced well have been flying off the shelves. There’s a lot of demand in the market for certain areas, while others can seem like ghost towns.

    Buyers are often looking for the same thing – good neighborhoods, access to transportation, shopping, good schools, close to work, etc. Properties that deliver all these are definitely a hot commodity. Sellers with a highly desirable property are in control of the market.

    But for condos and townhouses – especially those a little off the beaten path, or with some funky features – it can be quite a different story. Prices were down in certain areas of Edmonton, but seem to be rebounding as the rental market increases.

    Investment properties are in demand. The massive amounts of foreign cash flooding in to invest in US real estate have impacted the Spruce Grove market in unique ways.

    Overall, those people in a position to pay cash for properties have been picking up the good deals in the marketplace.

    Lots of sellers are trying out speculative prices just to see if anyone bites, but most investors are walking away from deals that don’t pencil out.

    Financing is still a major obstacle for buyers. Banks are being incredibly strict, requiring lots of money down and even changing their terms at the last minute. It’s not uncommon for approved buyers to get their loans pulled right before closing escrow, although it’s getting better than it was just a couple of years ago.

    Overall the markets remain incredibly polarized – there is a lot of action at the very top and the very bottom, with the biggest challenges in the middle.

    Sound confusing? It is. But We Can Help.

    There’s a lot of shakeup in the US economy still taking place, and the markets are moving fast in lots of directions at once.

    We’re investing in Edmonton because we believe in the community and the people here.

    If you need to sell a property near Edmonton, we can help you.

    We buy properties like yours from people who need to sell fast.

    Give us a call anytime 587-401-2627 or fill out the form 
    over here today if you’re looking to sell a Edmonton house fast!

  • How to Find a Good Real Estate Agent in Edmonton

    Hiring a real estate agent in Edmonton can be frustrating. So what are the steps on how to find a good real estate agent in Edmonton?

    Many local large real estate brokers will spend thousands of dollars each month to ensure that their agents are the most visible, whether it be online, in the Yellow Pages, or by erecting giant billboards in the most trafficked sections of Edmonton.

    However, the agents backed by the most promotion dollars aren’t always the best, and may not be a good fit for your circumstances. In today’s piece, we’re going to look at how you can find a good real estate agent in Edmonton.

    [NOTE: If you need to sell your Edmonton house fast and can’t wait the 3-6 months+ it is taking to sell a home on the local market… we may be able to help by buying your house from you. We can make you an all-cash offer within 24 hours on your house in as-is condition. ]

    How To Find A Good Real Estate Agent In Edmonton – Get Reviews… Real Reviews

    Online reviews of real estate agents are easily manipulated, and can be often times little more than paid advertisements. It’s important to get honest reviews from any agent that you’re considering, and any reputable agent will be glad to provide you with recent clients.

    Also, reviews are one of the best ways to see how any real estate professional does out in the marketplace.

    As a last way to check out the agent… hit Google and type in “[name of agent] reviews” and see what pops up in the Google search. If you see a bunch of bad reviews on websites like yelp and others… see if the agent tried to engage with those negative reviewers online to resolve the situation.

    Ask the Right Questions Of The Local Edmonton Real Estate Agent

    Ask the agent (or better yet, his or her former clients) the following questions to gauge the agent’s skill, and ability to represent you as a buyer or a seller:

    • Was there any part of the process of buying or selling a home that clients were pleased or particularly displeased with?
    • What was the asking price?
    • What was the sales price?
    • What properties have you worked with in my location?
    • What about similarly sized properties?

    It’s important to choose an agent who has experience working with homes similar to yours.

    Check The Real Estate Agent’s Credentials

    Check with your state’s real estate regulatory authority to verify the agent’s licensing. While you’re on that website, you’re also often able to look into regulatory actions and complaints against the agent.

    You should also ask the agent how long they’ve been buying and selling homes. If they’re representing an agency, ask how long they’ve been with that particular agency, and their history with other firms.

    Above all, it’s important to choose a real estate agent in Edmonton that you can trust. Regular communication is extremely important when selling your home, as in many cases, a house represents the majority of your net worth. A good agent will be able to answer questions such as:

    • How many inquiries have been made about my home?
    • How many of these inquiries came from people likely to make a purchase (not just window shoppers)?
    • What other properties in this neighborhood are for sale? What is the asking price of those homes?

    Ask The Local Real Estate Agent How They Plan On Selling Your House

    Sometimes going the direct route is the best. In the case of looking for a local Edmonton AB real estate agent, ask them how they intend on selling your house for you that the other agents in town won’t do. And see what their answer is.

    Usually the great ones actually have a marketing plan and will get your house out there and on the market in a big way.

    This Is Where Low Priced Isn’t Always The Best

    Often times Edmonton AB home sellers want to go with the lowest priced option.

    Heck, when you look at the numbers… if a real estate agent is earning 3% on a $100,000 sale… that’s $3,000 in fees just to 1 real estate agent (usually both agents representing the buyer and the seller earn commission)… it isn’t cheap.  But just really do your research before you go with a cut rate agent or a flat fee agent… because that usually means that the service you’re getting is also a lower level service.

    Some of the best real estate agents in Edmonton have great marketing systems and are able to sell homes faster and for higher prices.  So even if you find someone to sell your house at a 1.5% fee… look long and hard at whether you’ll be saving money long term.

    The same goes for selling your house to a local real estate investor like FairKey Home Buyers.  The highest priced offer isn’t always the best. Look at the terms of the deal the house buyer offers you… and ensure they can close on-time… because every month that goes by costs you money (your mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.) to hold the property.

    It’s important to avoid low-quality real estate agents. These could be “rookies” who will do anything to make their first sale (including leaving dollars on the table). A good real estate can make selling your home an extremely smooth experience, and will work in your best interest.

    So go out there and do your research and find a local real estate agent.

    If you need to sell your house fast… we’d love to make you an all-cash fair offer on your house.

    We can make you a no-obligation offer in 24 hours or less and you can weigh that option against going with a real estate agent.

    Just click the link below and fill out the short form on the next page to get the painless process rolling.

    Need To Sell Your Edmonton AB House Fast?

    Submit Your Basic Property Info For A Fast Cash Offer >>

  • What is a Pre-Foreclosure in Edmonton?

    With millions of homes across the country going into foreclosure, it’s important for both buyers and mortgage holders to understand the process.

    So what is a pre-foreclosure in Edmonton anyway?

    Many homeowners across America and Edmonton are facing difficulties making their monthly mortgage payments.

    When a homeowner misses 3-6 months of mortgage payments, the lending institution will issue a warning, notifying the homeowner to pay or lose their home. This period is known as “pre-foreclosure.”

    Banks and mortgage lenders typically provide three months for the homeowner to become current.  Of course this number can vary by bank and situation sometimes.

    If a homeowner fails to make the necessary payments, the bank will foreclose on the home, assuming ownership, and evict the homeowner. Thankfully, during this stage of the foreclosure process, a mortgage holder has the opportunity to take advantage of several options to prevent losing their home.

    Pre-foreclosure Options for Borrowers

    If you’re behind on mortgage payments, you’re likely to receive a “notice of default” from your mortgage lender.

    This document will state that you have not made mortgage payments for the last 90-180 days. It’s important not to panic.

    You have options that can delay or even prevent losing your home:

    • If your mortgage is “above water,” (meaning you have equity in your house) you may be able to refinance your mortgage, receiving lower monthly payments.  Check with your local Edmonton mortgage broker… or contact us and we can connect you with a reputable one.
    • You may be able to quickly sell your home to a real estate investor that’s reputable in Edmonton like us at FairKey Home Buyers, using the cash acquired to pay the months of back-payments owed (or we *may* be able to work out something with the lender that relieves all or part of your back payments.We can buy your Edmonton AB area home quickly, often in just a week or two, will pay in cash, and takes the stress out of trying to find a buyer.
    • You can contact the bank and ask them to permit a short sale. In a short sale, you’ll sell your home for less than it’s worth, and the bank will take the loss as a tax write-off.  In some short sales you may still be required to pay the difference to the bank if the house doesn’t sell for what is owed on the loan.
    • You may be able to declare bankruptcy, which can buy you time to pay your debt. Bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for years, and can cause significant damage.

    Lenders are very much aware of the widespread financial troubles across the country and they’re willing to work with borrowers a lot of the time.

    If you’re honest and communicate with your lender, you’ll often find that there are options that will allow you to remain in your home, or at least salvage your credit rating.

    A foreclosure can often negatively affect your credit score by 200-400 points and can prevent you from obtaining a loan of any sort for 5-7 years, so be very dutiful if you’ve received a Notice of Default from your lender.

    But if you’re not able to find a solution with your lender working directly with them… connect with us. We may be able to help.

    Ways We Can Help If You’re In Pre-Foreclosure

    • We can potentially help with a short sale – Submit your info on this website so we can evaluate your situation to see if we can help.
    • We can buy your Edmonton area house – We buy houses in Edmonton and would love to make you an all-cash offer on your house too. Just fill out the form here to get started >>
    • You can ask us questions and we can provide you FREE guidance and resources so you can make a well educated decision. This costs you nothing, there’s absolutely no pressure, no obligation… just free guidance without a catch.

    If you’re in the pre-foreclosure stage… you’ve still got time to fix this situation.

    Just connect with your bank to see if they’re willing to work with you… or contact us if you’d like to see what we can buy your house for or to tap into our free foreclosure foreclosure resources.

    Want To Discuss Your Pre-Foreclosure Options? Call Us at 587-401-2627
    Or, Submit Your Info Here To Get A Cash Offer On Your House >>

  • How to Avoid Foreclosure in Edmonton

    While the housing market is rebounding, many people in Edmonton] are still struggling to make their mortgage payments.

    If you’re underwater on your home, or having trouble keeping up with your monthly mortgage payments, you could be fearful that your mortgage provider is going to foreclose.

    Thankfully, there are a number of things that you can do to avoid foreclosure in Edmonton. It’s important to remember that moving quickly is absolutely paramount, and could save your credit rating and your home.

    So lets dive in on a couple quick tips on possibly how to avoid foreclosure in Edmonton with your home.

    The Keys of How To Avoid Foreclosure in Edmonton Don’t Abandon Ship

    Many people simply give up and walk away from their home. There are even areas of Edmonton have begun to resemble ghost towns, as the economy has impacted residents significantly.

    Detroit is a prime example of what can happen when people abandon their homes.

    This can be stressful situation, but it’s extremely important to keep your wits about you. A foreclosure will have a huge negative impact on your credit score, and likely prevent you from purchasing a home for years to come. If you sell your home, you could leave a portion of the loan unpaid, and the lender could pursue legal action against your for the unpaid portion.

    While it’s extremely stressful, you do have options:

    • Negotiate with your mortgage lender. Banks and other financial institutions are well aware that citizens of Edmonton are struggling. If you haven’t missed a payment yet, you may have some leverage to renegotiate the terms of your loan. Banks don’t like foreclosing on homes, and many will work with you if you aren’t too far behind. You may be offered forbearance, or even a full loan modification.

    • Ask for help from Uncle Sam. Over the last five years, the federal government has implemented a number of programs to help struggling homeowners. The Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) allows struggling homeowners to modify their loans, reducing monthly payments. The Home Affordable Refinance Program allows homeowners who are current on their mortgage payments refinance an adjustable rate mortgage into a low-interest, fixed rate loan. Both of these programs are subject to eligibility requirements.

    We understand that the possibility of losing your home can be stressful. You aren’t alone. Citizens all over Edmonton are going through the same troubles. Foreclosure can have a lasting effect on your financial life, and it’s important to move quickly and take advantage of any options available. You could save both your credit rating and remain in your home.

    We may be able to help you avoid foreclosure… connect with us today and lets discuss your situation. We don’t charge any fees… we’ll evaluate your situation… and present you your options so you can move forward and get this foreclosure behind you.

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>

  • How to Sell Your House to an Investor in Edmonton Alberta

    Home ownership just isn’t what it was in the 1950’s.

    In the past, people would buy a home and live there for the rest of their lives, often passing it on to their family. Things have changed. Many first-time homebuyers are going into it with the attitude that they’ll sell when it’s time for a change. If you’re looking to sell your house, you could be frustrated.

    Despite the market trends in Edmonton slowly shifting, it’s still very much a buyer’s market. With so much property available, you could find yourself waiting months or longer to get a fair price on your home.

    How To Sell Your House To An Investor in Edmonton

    One option that many homeowners are turning to is selling to a real estate investor like FairKey Home Buyers to buy your house from you.

    These independent investors typically purchase homes, repair them, and then use them to generate income; either as rental units or sell them for a profit. Edmonton has numerous reputable and trusted real estate investors who will help you sell your home quickly.

    Selling your house to an investor is relatively simple.

    You provide him or her with information about your home and personal situation.

    The investor will then inspect the home and determine a fair value, taking into account necessary repairs, and make an offer. If the offer works for you, you’ll close, and receive the payment for your house in cash… usually within 7 days if you want to close that fast.

    How Fast Can You Sell Your House To Local Investor?

     

    This process is extremely quick compared to more traditional methods, often taking just 7-10 days.

    If you need to sell your Edmonton home very quickly, with little hassle, selling to a Edmonton real estate investor is a great option.

    When you work with a real estate investor… there usually aren’t any fees involved, as you don’t have to worry about paying an agent commission, and most often, the investor will cover the closing costs.

    While real estate investors are often looking to purchase homes at a discount, allowing them to fix up the house if it needs repairs… then sell the home to another home owner.

    The Hidden Costs Of Waiting To Sell Your Edmonton House

    Many people don’t consider the hidden costs of holding on to a property.

    Extra months of mortgage payments, utilities, maintenance costs, and other fees could quickly add up. By selling at a slight discount, you could potentially end up with a larger sum in the long run.

    By selling your home to a real estate investor, you’re saving yourself possible months of headache, and you can quickly move on to your new home. You’ll avoid expensive fees, closing costs, and investors will purchase your home as-is, assuming the costs of repairs that you’d have to pay if you were selling via more traditional means.

    Fill out the form below to get a fast cash offer on your home!

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>

  • Selling Your Home During a Divorce in Edmonton

    If you’re wondering about the ins and outs of selling your home during a divorce in Edmonton AB… we’ll dive into the steps and things to look out for in this article.

    With over 50% of American marriages ending in divorce, many Edmonton AB residents are looking or advice for selling a home during a divorce.

    A home is one of the most valuable joint assets, and obviously cannot be divided without first liquidating. While a divorce is one of the most stressful and emotionally charged life events, it’s important to remain rational. There are several factors to consider when facing a divorce in a real estate market that has yet to rebound from the housing bubble burst.

    Determine if (and when) You Will Be Selling Your Home During Your Divorce in Edmonton

    In many divorce cases, one spouse will keep the home, buying out the departing spouse’s share.

    In many cases, agreements are made where one spouse uses the house for a set period of time (this is usually used when there are children in the home), and then sold at a certain date (usually when the children reach a certain age).

    Get Professional Help – Agents and Home Buyers / Investors

    Selling a home is a difficult process when everything is going right.

    During a divorce, you have a lot going on, and a lot to consider. You shouldn’t take on the task of selling you home yourself. You may have disagreements with your spouse about selling price or other issues. By working with a real estate professional… either a reputable agent or real estate investment firm, you’ll both have a neutral third party who can help you determine a fair selling price and handle the marketing of your home.

    If you need to sell your Edmonton house fast… reputable local real estate investment firms like FairKey Home Buyers may be a great option.  Firms like ours actually BUY HOUSES (rather than listing them like agents do)… and we pay cash and can close quickly if you need to sell this house fast.

    If you can wait the time it’ll take to list it with an agent and sell it on the open market, going with a real estate agent is your best bet.

    But if you can’t wait the 3-9 months it sometimes takes to sell a house in this market in Edmonton… chat with us to see what we can offer you for your house during your divorce.

    Set (and stick to) a Timeline

    It’s important, when selling your Edmonton house during a divorce to keep a timeline.

    You should put your home for sale in advance. Set firm closing dates, moving dates and times, and coordinate which spouse will be handling the sale (or talking to the real estate agent). Make sure that each of these agreements are in writing, and negotiate penalties for breaching the agreements.

    This helps ensure a smooth, surprise free home sale.

    Selling Your House Fast For A Fair All-Cash Price

    One option that many divorcing couples have turned to in recent years is making a quick sale to a real estate investor like FairKey Home Buyers.

    Reputable local real estate investors like us, purchase houses quickly and without stress, and the process can often take as little as seven days.

    Deciding how to sell a marital home in Edmonton doesn’t have to be as stressful as the divorce itself.

    By protecting each party with a qualified real estate agent or simply jointly deciding to sell and selling fast to a real estate investment firm like FairKey Home Buyers, and moving the process as quickly and according to an agreed upon schedule, all parties can walk away from the sale without stress.

    If you want to discuss your situation with your divorce and see if we can help you save time, reduce stress, and get out of this situation fast…

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>

    We’ll evaluate your house, make you a fair all-cash offer, and you can decide if selling your house to us is the best fit for you. We’re here for you, just reach out and lets chat.

  • How to Stay in My Home After Foreclosure in Edmonton

    A recent study estimates that 47% of foreclosed properties are still occupied.

    When you first see that stat you may be surprised… but we’re not.

    What most people don’t realize is that banks aren’t in the business to own homes.

    They are in the business to loan people money. But when they have to foreclose on a house… the bank is forced to own the home until they’re able to sell it to get all or most of their money back.

    But, what they had found is that when a Edmonton foreclosed house goes vacant… there is a much greater chance that the house will fall into disrepair.  Often times the bank would rather have you in the property even after you stop paying your payments and the foreclosure is started because it wards of vandals and keeps the house in good working order.

    There’s been a lot of talk in the media about people living for free after foreclosure – and even many stories about banks “abandoning” properties.

    In those stories, people are avoiding house payments for months, even years.

    Man, that sounds great! Let’s all live for free. (wink)

    Wait… it can’t be that simple, right?

    Right.

    No bank would purposely neglect to collect payments. The only way that you get to live without making any payments is when some major mistakes were made.

    But you might get lucky! It’s possible, and it’s happened before. However, it’s not exactly legal to avoid payments that you owe, and it can get you in serious trouble.

    So why are so many foreclosed homes occupied? It’s important to remember that no one wants the house to be vacant. Vacant homes are targets for vandalism and crime.

    Staying in the property can help the bank maintain the value of their investment, so it’s actually in their best interests to keep it occupied. Partly because of the ways that the foreclosure laws are structured in AB, banks may ask you to leave while wanting you to stay.

    There are a few perfectly legal ways to remain in your home, even after foreclosure.

    How To Stay In My Home After Foreclosure In Edmonton

    Not all these options are available (depending on your situation and your lenders), and you’ll need some expert advice along the way to help you get through.

    1) Wait it out. Honestly, this is a pretty bad option, but it seems to be increasingly common. You definitely shouldn’t run away and abandon your house when the first notice of default shows up. Remember that the proceedings and the process takes months and sometimes years. It’s not over until it’s over, so don’t give up too early. On the other hand, don’t wait until the sheriff shows up to evict you to start packing up your stuff.

    2) Go to court. In very rare cases, judges are granting stays and delaying evictions. This is really only a valid option if you (and your attorneys) can prove that the bank has neglected a legal requirement during the foreclosure process. During the past few years, a lot of fraudulent behavior at banks has been uncovered – so we may see an increasing trend of using the courts to stop foreclosure. Fighting banks with lawyers is very difficult, expensive and time-consuming, even if you’ve got a perfect case (most people don’t stand a chance).

    3) Propose a move-out bonus. Often buyers of occupied foreclosure properties spend thousands of dollars on lawyers and other costs of eviction, so why not save everyone the time and expense by taking some of that money yourself? It’s known as “cash for keys”. It sounds a little greedy, but greasing the wheels does help everything to run smooth. Plus, you can help out the bank and the buyers by not abandoning the house to squatters before they’re ready to take possession.

    4) Rent it back. It may sound crazy, but some banks are willing to take on previous homeowners as tenants in their property. That’s only a short-term fix, as they’ll want your agreement to vacate the premises as soon as they find someone to purchase the property. In some cases, we can even purchase the property and rent it back to you.

    It’s really good that you’re reading this page and exploring your options. We help homeowners like you to find creative solutions.

    We can’t help everyone, but we might be able to help you.

    We buy local Edmonton AB houses like yours from people who need to sell fast.s

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>

  • What Do I Need To Do To Sell My House In Edmonton Alberta?

    You want to sell your Edmonton house, and you want to get top dollar.

    Excellent!

    But “What do I need to do to sell my house in Edmonton“?

    Here are some tips on how to get your home ready to sell if you’re looking for top dollar that the market will bear:

    *NOTE: These instructions are if you’re looking to get full retail value for your house sale.  However, if you don’t want to do the things below… or don’t have the time or money to do the things below… you can still sell your Edmonton house fast for a fair value in a win-win sale that’ll save you time and expense.

    1) Clean, clean and clean. Even vacant houses get dusty and dirty, so keep it up! Nothing short of gleaming perfection will impress buyers. If you’re not a total clean freak, hire someone who is to help you out until you sell.

    If you’re a slob, consider finding somewhere else to live while you show your house. Maybe you can bribe your cleanest friend to trade houses with you? Seriously, keeping everything immaculate really helps buyers feel comfortable in your space. Nothing stops people faster from buying faster than feeling grossed out.

    2) Cultivate a cohesive, neutral style. You don’t have to paint everything off-white. In fact, some subtle colors can really help change the perception of spaces – for example, a soft yellow will help brighten up a dark kitchen, while a deep dark blue or green will help a bright bedroom to feel like a calm place to sleep (but be careful, dark colors will also make rooms feel small).

    Spend the money to get high-quality paint and professional help. Subconsciously people will pay more money for a property with just the right colors and very neat lines – it makes the home feel better built, even though it’s just paint.

    Optical illusions are real, and psychologists study this stuff. Don’t believe me?

    Look it up. And don’t neglect the outside and just do the inside, or anything else that’s unbalanced.

    3) Fix or replace anything that’s broken. Yeah, it might feel like a waste of money to spend an extra couple hundred bucks on a dishwasher that someone else might just pull out and replace again. But really, quite a few buyers will get a home inspection and use the opportunity to negotiate with you. As the seller, you’ll often end up paying more if you try to hide neglected maintenance from the purchaser – and of course you don’t want to be guilty of fraud.

    Make sure you stay in compliance with all the laws.

    It’s often a good use of money to hire a home inspector to come through before you put the property on the market. If you ask in advance, they’ll often charge you a tiny rate to come back after you’ve done a bunch of minor repairs and deliver you a clean bill of health. Prospective buyers love to see an independent report on the condition of the house – it makes them feel very comfortable with the purchase.

    4) Make only necessary improvements. The biggest mistake people make when getting their house ready to sell is over-improving. They often spend too much money on customized frills that can’t be recovered in the sale.

    Paint is about the only safe investment – it’s easy to overspend on almost everything else, and it’s easy to get ripped off by unscrupulous contractors.

    It’s important to know what improvements will produce a return on investment to avoid wasting money.

    5) Get expert opinions. You should definitely find at least a few decent real estate brokers who will help you price your property, but be honest with them. If you’re going to market the property on your own, don’t make enemies by lying about your intentions. Great brokers are rare, but they make more money for their clients than they earn.

    6) Have a really great marketing plan. Again, great brokers earn their value by doing this work and spreading the advertising expenses across many clients. It’s pretty expensive and time-consuming to start from scratch on your own, but if you’re already a marketing expert you’re ahead of the pack.

    If you’re not, spend the time listening to what the best brokers do to sell houses in Edmonton – just to educate yourself on the options.

    7) Get a cash offer. We buy houses all over the Edmonton area, and we do all the work so you don’t have to deal with any of this stuff.
    ——————————————-

    Don’t Want To Do The Things Above Yourself? But Still Want To Sell Your Edmonton Alberta House Fast?

    While everyone wants to get as much as they possibly can from their house sale… not everyone can do the things or wants to do the things required to sell it at full retail value to an end buyer.

    Doing the repairs, cleaning the property up, upgrading the property, marketing the property… those all take money and can take lots of time.

    If you have the funds to do these things... AND you can wait the 3-9 months it takes to sell houses in this market… then you’ll be better off financially to do those things then list it on the MLS (the main property listing service that real estate agents use).

    If you don’t have the funds to do these things... AND can’t wait months to sell your house… then you may be a perfect fit for our local Edmonton house buying service. You’ll submit basic info about your house over here on our website, we’ll evaluate your house, we’ll make you a fair all-cash offer on your house, and you can decide if it’s a fit for you.

    Then we can close FAST (often times within 7 days) if you need us to.

    Take a look at what we’ll pay you not to do anything versus the time, expense and hassle involved with doing it on your own.

    So if you’re still asking “what do I need to do to sell my house in Edmonton“… now you have 2 solid options.

    Either…

    1. Fix the property up and get it all nice and ready with the steps above to sell it at top dollar
    2. Let us do all of the work and we’ll make you a cash offer on your house in AS-IS condition. This saves you time, money, and gets the hassle off of your hands.

    If you need to sell a property near Edmonton, we can help you.

    We buy properties like yours from people who need to sell fast.

    We’d like to make you a fair offer on your Edmonton house

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>

  • We Buy Houses in Edmonton Companies – Are They Credible?

    If you’ve been driving around in Edmonton, chances are you’ve seen some billboards advertising companies that buy houses.

    Often times they say things like “We Buy Edmonton Houses!” or “Cash For Your House”.

    Are These “We Buy Houses in Edmonton Companies” Credible?

    How do I know if the local house buying companies out there are honest and credible?

    Well… sometimes they all look the same at the start… but below we’ll walk you through some things to look for in a local house buying company before you should work with them.

    Buying and selling houses is a valid and respectable profession that can help communities and house sellers in many ways. But just like any other line of work – a minority of house buyers in any market are the ones who make the rest of us look bad.

    There are people who are really great, ethical folks who improve their neighborhoods one property at a time.

    And then there’s shady, dishonest people who put money ahead of the well being of their clients and who would sign the contract to sell their own grandmother with one hand while stabbing you in the back with the other – as long as they were making enough money.

    Yes, they are out there.

    We’ll help you avoid these “shady house buyers” so you can work with honest, ethical, and reputable local companies who can buy your house for a fair all cash offer and close on your schedule.

    But let’s not focus on the negative – at least not yet.

    First, let’s cover exactly what the best house-flippers are doing.

    What Reputable Edmonton House Buyers Are Doing

    • Helping folks improve their lives by accessing the money they needright away. People often need the cash in their house to cover unexpected medical expenses, or to relocate to be close to a relative. We can make that happen in just a few days, and we deliver peace of mind.
    • Helping sellers get rid of a burdensome property without the hassle of having to list it with a broker and wait months and month for a sale.
    • Creating local jobs. We hire plumbers, contractors, electricians, brokers, title reps, loan officers, administrators and many other folks along the way. The average real estate transaction involves 86 people from start to finish. Our investments help create real jobs for people around Edmonton AB.
    • Buying US products. We spend tons of money on materials that are made right here in the USA – that creates jobs in our timber mills, factories, supply shops, distribution centers and more. The US economy depends on steady improvement, and that requires investment from folks like us.
    • Increasing the value of Edmonton neighborhoods. When we improve a house, we’re helping to increase the value of the entire community. We often repair abandoned and neglected houses, turning them into beautiful homes for families. That activity strengthens Edmonton.
    • Increasing the tax base. When a new buyer takes over one of our properties, they’ll pay a higher tax rate based on the new and improved value. Those taxes go to pay for our schools, fire, police, libraries, streets and other valuable pieces of infrastructure.  Again, improving our neighborhoods.

    Pretty cool stuff, right?

    Lots of people think of house-flipping as a get-rich-quick scheme. That’s fueled by silly “reality” shows that amp up the drama because the reality of what we do on a daily basis is actually pretty boring.

    Most of our work is coordinating with lots of people to make sure things are happening on time. We have to keep track of lots of moving parts.

    So let’s get back to how you can use this information to find out if someone is a credible investor, and not just pulling a house buying scam.

    How To Ensure You’re Working With A Reputable Local House Buyer

    When you talk with a local house buyer to potentially buy your house… ask them some of the questions below to ensure they’re reputable, knowledgeable, and honest.

    Ask open-ended questions like:

    • How do you help your clients?
    • What do you do for people?
    • Can you tell me more about your services?
    • What aspect of your business makes you the proudest?
    • How would you describe your investment philosophy?
    • How can I know that you’ll close on my house when you say you will?

    Second, look for tell tale signs of tactics that those few shady operators tend to use.

    • “Kitchen table closings” – If a property buyer tries to get you to sign the deed (ownership) of your house over to them at your house, rather than a professional place like a closing attorney or title company… be leery.  Most reputable house buying services will perform the actual closing of the sale at a neutral 3rd party place… like a title company. This ensures everything is done right and on the up and up.
    • Pressuring you into a fast closing – If a house buyer tries to pressure you into selling your house and says that you have to make the decision today, be leery. Most reputable house buying services will make you and offer and that offer will be on the table for at least 2-7 days (minimum) for you to make a decision.  The reason reputable house buying services like ours at FairKey Home Buyers do place deadlines on our offers is because the market changes and values can change week to week depending on other sales in the area, also… we buy multiple houses a month and when we make you an offer we’re assuring you that the cash to purchase your house is ready and we’ll reserve that cash for several days so if you do want to sell your house, we can close on your schedule.  If you feel the offer isn’t a fit for you, then we’ll assign those funds to help another seller with their home sale.

    Most scammers are looking for a quick score, and not an in-depth interview.

    Chances are good that they’ll find excuses to get off the phone and move on to someone who doesn’t ask too many questions.

    True investors who run honest and ethical Edmonton house buying services, however, are building long-term businesses based on relationships and community development.

    So when you’re looking at one of the “we buy houses in Edmonton companies“… never be afraid to ask questions!

    Give us a call anytime at 587-401-2627 or
    fill out the form on this website today! >>