Selling your home is something to be excited about, it can mark an end to one journey and a beginning to a new one. It's not a task that can feel to big, it's a process that with the right guidance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As your REALTOR®, I’m here to make the process clear and manageable. What are the 8 Steps for Selling your Home in Winnipeg? Let’s walk through the key steps to selling your home so you know exactly what to expect. Step 1: Meeting as Your REALTOR® I’ll come to your home to assess the property and discuss your goals. This is a chance for us to talk about: Your timeline for selling. Commission rates and marketing strategies. Whether you’re also planning to purchase a new home. This meeting is the foundation of our plan for selling your property. Step 2: Market and Home Research After our meeting, I’ll get to work. My market research includes: Analyzing comparable sales in your area through A Comparative Market Analysis Reviewing the City of Winnipeg Assessment. Examining the current market conditions. My home research includes: Minor repairs and renovations that can increase the value of your home. Landscaping ideas that can attract buyers. Decluttering and cleaning suggestions to make your home more appealing.  The best ways to feature your home through staging, video and photography. A Single Family Detached Home / Source: Winnipeg Real Esate news Step 3: Setting the Price and Establishing the Listing  Once we’ve reviewed the research together, we’ll decide on a competitive listing price and set a date for the listing to made public. You will make the final decision on this price, with myself as your REALTOR® guiding you. The necessary paperwork will need to be signed and this can be done on paper or sent electronically to your email for convenience, while you may be at work or travelling. As your REALTOR® I will take measurements of your home and write the listing based on the type of home you have, of course, with consideration on what you find as appealing assets of your home.This listing will connect to buyers through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®), the most comprehensive real estate database in Winnipeg. MLS® ensures your home is accurately priced, widely seen by buyers, and marketed effectively including exposure through the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate News. I’ll provide you with a detailed timeline so you’ll know what happens from the marketing to first open house. Step 4: Preparing Your Home for The Listing Getting your home ready is important to make a first impression to your potential buyers. From decluttering to making small repairs, these changes can make a big difference in how buyers see your property. Staging may be brought in, be done virtually or showcased as you've made it your home.  Together we will present your home in its best light, ensuring it’s ready for showings and professional photography. For a suggested check list of things to do to prepare your home for sale visit, https://www.winnipegregionalrealestatenews.com/selling/selling-checklist Step 5: Open House and Showings  Once your home is officially listed, your property will be advertised for sale. Many buyers look to social media and Winnipeg Real Estate news for a schedule of open houses. I will host your open house to reach potential buyers and answer their questions.  Showings will be requested from buyers, either through myself or their REALTOR® . As much notice for showings can be given as you need. While it might be inconvenient at times, it’s important to accommodate as many showings as possible to give your home the best chance of selling quickly. Step 6: Reviewing Offers When offers start coming in, I’ll help you navigate them. We’ll look at: The offer price. Any conditions, like financing approval or a home inspection. Deposit amounts and possession dates. We’ll negotiate to craft the best possible deal for you, ensuring it meets your needs. If an offer doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t worry. You’re never obligated to accept a deal that doesn’t work for you. We’ll continue marketing your home until we find the right buyer. Step 7: Moving Toward a Final Sale Once we’ve accepted an offer, the buyer will need to satisfy their conditions. A deadline will be written in the Offer to Purchase for these conditions to be met. This might include: Financing Approval: The buyer uses this time to secure the financing required. The lendor may send an appraiser to inspect the property. The deal is pending the finance approval. Home Inspection: With the buyer's REALTOR® or myself present, an inspector will conduct the inspection of your home, typically lasting about three hours. The deal is pending the buyer's satisfaction of this inspectioin. For condo sales, the buyer will also review condo documents related to the unit and condo corporation. Referred to as "the cooling off period", the buyer has up to 7 days to decide whether to move forward. After all conditions are met, the sale becomes final! Step 8: Closing the Sale and Moving Once the sale is finalized, it’s time to prepare for your move. You’ll hear from your lawyer at least 1-2 weeks before possession to finalize the paperwork and hand over the keys. On moving day, be sure to take meter readings for gas, water, and hydro, and notify the respective utilities. With the right plan and support, selling your home makes moving into the next one part of the process. Guiding you every step of the way, are you ready to sell your home? Let’s get started!

The Homesteads Act in Manitoba and homeownership Homeownership in Manitoba is not only an investment in property but also an opportunity for financial security and personal independence. The Homesteads Act in Manitoba plays a key role in protecting homeowners, particularly in family situations, by safeguarding property rights in various scenarios. This guide will provide an overview of the rights and protections afforded by The Homesteads Act and what these mean for homeowners today. Understanding The Homesteads Act in Manitoba  The Homesteads Act was created to protect the primary residence of a married or common-law couple by ensuring that both parties have a say in significant decisions regarding the property. Enacted in the early 20th century and updated over the years, the Act is part of Manitoba's family property laws and applies only to the primary residence, known as the "homestead," of married or common-law couples. The Homesteads Act in comparison to The Family Property Act  The Homesteads Act: Consent Requirement: Both spouses or common-law partners must consent to the sale, mortgage, or transfer of the homestead. Even if only one partner is listed as the legal property owner on the title, the decision must be made by both. Homestead Rights Upon Death: In cases where a partner passes away, The Homesteads Act protects the surviving spouse or partner’s right to remain in the home. This provision ensures that the surviving partner is not forced to sell or vacate the property due to inheritance claims or external pressures. Protection Against Creditor Claims: The Homesteads Act provides some protection against creditor claims if one partner incurs debts. Creditors cannot force the sale of a homestead to satisfy debts unless both partners have consented to the mortgage or loan associated with the debt. The Family Property Act Purpose: The Family Property Act governs the division of property between spouses or common-law partners when a relationship ends, either due to separation or divorce. It applies to all types of property, not just the primary residence. Scope: It focuses on the fair distribution of assets accumulated during the relationship, including pensions, investments, and personal assets. Key Provisions: The act provides a process for the accounting and equalization of family property. It may include considerations of financial contributions, debts, and other factors to reach a fair division. Who Has Homestead Rights? Eligibility: Both married spouses and common-law partners of the property owner on title can have homestead rights. Common-Law Partnerships: A common-law partnership qualifies if: It is registered with Vital Statistics, or The couple has lived together in a committed relationship for at least three years. One Partner with Homestead Rights: Only one spouse or partner can have homestead rights at any given time. If there’s a former spouse or partner with homestead rights, those rights must be resolved before a new spouse or partner can gain homestead rights to the property. Scenario's where this may happen are as such; The previous spouse/common-law partner has given up or lost their rights to the homestead. The previous spouse/common-law partner's ownership interest has been transferred. Any claim for dividing assets (under The Family Property Act) has been settled. The Homesteads Act applies to married people and those in common-law relationships under 18 and is treated the same as an adult.  The family farm is covered by The Homesteads Act, including the farm's main dwelling and up to 320 acres of land. When is Homestead Consent Required? The parties involved must be either married or in a common-law relationship as defined by The Homesteads Act. The property must be the homestead property as defined by The Homesteads Act. There can be only one homestead at a time. The property must be registered on the certificate of title by only one owner, in the marital or common-law relationship.  Exceptions to Disposition Without Consent  An owner cannot sell, transfer, or give away their homestead during their lifetime unless: Consent: The owner's spouse or common-law partner agrees in writing. In Favor of Spouse/Partner: The property is being given to the spouse or common-law partner. Release of Rights: The spouse or partner has given up their rights to the homestead in writing. Additional Interest: The spouse or partner has a legal interest in the property and is involved in the transaction. Court Order: A court has given permission to proceed without the spouse's or partner’s consent. Key Scenarios Where the Homestead Act Applies The Homesteads Act is central to family law in Manitoba. Its primary purpose is to protect the home and prevent a spouse or partner from being unfairly displaced or financially disadvantaged due to property decisions made without their consent. This is particularly important during separation, divorce, or death. How The Homesteads Act Protects Homeowners: Sale of the Family Home: The Homesteads Act requires that both partners provide consent before the sale, mortage, or transfer of the property. Even if only one partner is the legal owner, the property cannot be sold without both partners’ signatures. Refinancing or Taking a Loan Against the Home: If a homeowner seeks to refinance the mortgage or take out a loan against the home, both partners must consent. This provision protects the non-titleholding partner from unexpected debt burdens. Right to Occupy: If a partner passes away, the surviving partner has the legal right to continue living in the homestead. This provides crucial stability, especially for those who may have limited financial resources or are reliant on the home as their primary residence. Fair Division During Divorce: In cases of separation or divorce, The Homesteads Act plays a role in ensuring an equitable division of the family home. This means that both parties have rights to fair consideration, even if one partner is not on the property title. The Homesteads Act and Real Estate Transactions The Homesteads Act introduces a layer of protection for homeowners but also requires additional steps in real estate transactions involving married or common-law couples. In practice: Legal Documentation: For any real estate transaction involving a homestead, both partners must sign off on the sale, mortgage, or transfer. This documentation is often verified through a Homestead Consent Form, which is a legal requirement in Manitoba. Title Searches and Verification: Real estate lawyers, when handling transactions requiring the transfer of the homestead, typically verify the marital or common-law status of the seller to ensure compliance with The Homesteads Act. Involvement of a real estate agent: When working with married or common-law couples, a REALTOR® plays an important role by advising clients on the necessity of joint consent for property transactions, ensuring that all parties are informed and involved in decision-making. Your REALTOR® will ensure all forms are signed when required. The Homesteads Act Requires Additional Documents When The Homesteads Act is involved in selling or refinancing a property in Manitoba, there is additional documents to ensure compliance. Here’s an idea of what to expect: 1. The Homesteads Act Consent to Disposition and Acknowledgement Form This is required by The Homesteads Act if you’re disposing of the primary residence (the “homestead”) and you’re married or in a common-law relationship, both parties must complete and sign the homesteads Act Consent to Disposition and Acknowledgement form. This consent is on the residential and condominium offers to purchase or it can be a seperate form. It verifies that both partners agree to the transaction, regardless of whether only one partner is on the title. Notarization of Documents A consent to a disposition or a change of homestead must be made before a person authorized to take affidavits under The Manitoba Evidence Act.  A Notary Public, such as a Real Estate Lawyer, as well as a Commisioner of Oaths are both entitled to take affidavits and will oversee the notarization of these documents. This is on The Homesteads Act Consent to Disposition and Acknowledgement form.  2. The Sellers Homesteads Act Statements Form The Sellers Homesteads Act Statements form provides assurance to the buyer that they have a valid, enforceable and binding contract with the seller by having the homestead status of the property verified by the owners. This form is available from your REALTOR® and establishes the relationship, ensuring compliance with The Homesteads Act. 3. Additional Signatures If only one person’s name is on the property title, both partners will still need to sign off on the sale or refinancing documents to meet the requirements of The Homesteads Act. In practice, while The Homesteads Act does add a few additional documents, it doesn’t create a heavy burden as long as you work with your REALTOR® and other professionals who can guide you through each step. Additional Laws for Property on First Nation Reserves In addition to The Homesteads Act, The Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act is a federal law that governs the division of family homes and other matrimonial real property on First Nation reserves for married spouses and common-law partners. It addresses gaps in property division on reserves, where provincial property laws typically do not apply. Key Points: Purpose: This law ensures fair treatment regarding the division of property on First Nation reserves during the dissolving of a relationship or the death of a spouse or partner. Applicability: The rules apply to First Nation communities in Manitoba unless the community has enacted its own laws about matrimonial real property. First Nations can create their own laws under this act. Enforcement Date: The law came into effect on December 16, 2014. Parties Living Separate and Apart The Homesteads Act doesn’t apply to common-law partners who lived together for at least three years before this section of The Homesteads Act took effect but were living separately on that date, unless: They start living together again and register their relationship. They resume living together and stay together for at least 90 days. Final Thoughts: Homeownership and Protection Under The Homesteads Act The Homesteads Act of Manitoba is a critical protection for family property rights, ensuring that homeownership remains a source of stability and security for couples and families. It’s especially vital in situations of marital split, death, or financial hardship, providing a fair and equitable framework that supports the rights of both partners. Whether buying, selling, or refinancing a home, understanding The Homesteads Act can help homeowners in Manitoba make informed, secure decisions about their property. For couples and families considering homeownership in Manitoba, being aware of The Homesteads Act is essential to ensure peace of mind, legal protection, and fair treatment in all property-related matters. A REALTOR® and legal advisor can provide guidance on navigating these requirements, ensuring that your rights and best interests are upheld in every step of your homeownership journey.      

New Mobile Home Model / Source: Best Buy Homes A Guide to Buying a Mobile Home in Winnipeg Overview As an affordable housing option for buyers in Winnipeg, mobile homes are growing in demand for first-time buyers, families, and downsizers alike. While the price point is often comparable to an apartment or townhome, mobile homes offer benefits like more square footage, a private yard, and the flexibility of a detached home. A mobile home (or manufactured home) is built entirely in a factory and transported to a desired location, rather than constructed onsite. Though typically semi-permanent once installed, they retain some mobility.  These types of home's have specific considerations unique to their structure, location, and financing, all of which are important to understand before making a purchase. Benefits of Buying a Mobile Home in Winnipeg Affordability: Mobile homes are often more affordable than single-family homes and offer a lower entry point into homeownership in Winnipeg’s competitive market. Flexible Living Arrangements: Mobile homes can be placed on rented land in parks or on purchased lots, giving buyers flexibility in where they choose to settle. Quick Setup: Mobile homes are built and transported quickly, offering a much shorter timeline than custom-built homes. Private Yard Space: Unlike apartments or some townhomes, mobile homes come with private outdoor space, giving you flexibility for gardening, outdoor relaxation, or pets. Lease Fees:  If part of a mobile home park the lot is often leased with a monthly fee. This fee covers essentials like snow removal, garbage, and water services. Municipal fees or taxes paid by the park, will be included to reflect the portion owed by that individual lot. Detached Property with Larger Square Footage: Mobile homes offer the benefit of more space without shared walls, providing greater privacy than most apartments or townhomes. Community: Many mobile home parks provide play structures and encourage pedestrian use with trails and a vehicle speed limit. Some parks may also have a community centre or pool for it's occupants.  Park Rules: Most mobile home parks have policies and a management that ensures fairness amongst the tenants that the rules are followed. 5 Key Considerations for Mobile Home Buyers 1. Financing and Depreciation Depreciation and Economic Life: Mobile homes generally have a shorter economic lifespan than conventional homes, typically around 50 years. Depreciation can affect both property value and financing options, especially if the home is older or less maintained. Lenders may be more cautious, particularly if the mobile home has less remaining economic life. The economic life of a mobile home refers to the period during which it is considered to have value and utility for its intended purpose. While the economic life defines its practical lifespan, mobile homes can remain usable beyond this period with significant maintenance, repairs or upgrades, though their market value may decline. Effective Age and Maintenance: A well-maintained mobile home with regular updates can have a longer effective age, which improves financing options. For example, a 15-year-old mobile home with major upgrades may be assessed as having an effective age of only five years, positively impacting its appraised value. While improvements can enhance living comfort, they may not increase the home's resale value significantly. Financing Challenges: Given depreciation concerns, buyers may need to meet specific criteria to qualify for a mortgage, and certain lenders may limit financing options based on the age and remaining lifespan of the home. Mobile Home on a Foundation with Owned Land You may qualify for a traditional mortgage if the home is permanent and you own or are buying the land.  Mobile Home on Owned Land but Movable Traditional mortgages don’t typically apply. Instead, you might use a chattel mortgage, which secures the loan with the mobile home itself as personal property. Mobile Home in a Park (No Land Ownership) A personal loan is usually the best option. Be cautious of loan limits to ensure you can cover the full cost of the mobile home. Anchor Support System / Source: Groundhog Anchor 2. Anchoring Requirements Proper Anchoring for Financing: Lenders usually require mobile homes to be securely anchored to be classified as real property rather than chattel (movable property). In Manitoba, this can mean either steel piles or concrete foundations, as well as metal strapping or anchoring for stability. Types of Anchoring: Older mobile homes may be anchored with wooden blocks or piles, whereas newer homes are typically set on steel piles or concrete. Proper anchoring is crucial for both financing and safety, so it’s wise to verify the anchoring system before buying. 3. Location and Land Ownership Freehold vs. Leasehold: Mobile homes in Winnipeg may be freehold (owned land) or part of a leased-land park. With leased-land properties, buyers rent the land from a park owner, which typically involves a monthly fee. These fees can vary widely, and it’s essential to clarify what services (e.g., water, sewage, garbage removal) are included as well as the amount of municipal taxes. Owning the land can protect you from fluctuations in mobile park fees, and it may slightly appreciate over time. Zoning and Land Use Regulations: Check local zoning and land-use restrictions, as some areas have specific rules for mobile homes. This is especially important if you plan to add extensions or make modifications. 4. Condition and Required Maintenance Spec Sheet and Serial Number: Every mobile home has a spec sheet (often located on an inside cabinet) with key details about the home, such as the make, model, and serial number. This information is essential for financing and resale. Construction Quality: Mobile homes built after 1976 (when HUD construction standards were implemented in the U.S.) generally last longer because of improved materials and building codes. Homes with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship tend to have a longer economic life. In Manitoba, all mobile homes must have CSA certification. New mobile homes come certified, but older ones may not be. You can check for the certification sticker near the doorway or electrical panel. If the sticker is missing, the mobile home needs to be inspected. The Office of the Fire Commissioner no longer conducts these inspections, for more information contact Inspection & Technical Services Manitoba at (204) 945-3373 or email TechnicalServices@gov.mb.ca. Modular Housing Association Prarie Provinces (MHAPP) For a timeline of single section homes, comparing the differences in building code changes, size increases and feature improvements, it can be found here: https://mhaprairies.ca/history-of-factory-built-housing/ Proper Installation: Correct installation is crucial; approximately 80% of warranty issues stem from poor setup, which can lead to costly damage like leaks, warping, or structural weakness. Preparation of the site and foundation is mandatory and important to the safety of the home. A detailed manual can be found at the following: Municipality of Roblin - Mobile Homes   Rapid Wall Insulated Vinyl Skirting Panel / Source: Prairie Mobile Homes Maintenance: Regular upkeep, including skirting, anchoring, roofing, siding, and systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical), significantly extends the economic life. Options like sloped landscaping around the foundation prevent water buildup. Neglect can reduce the home's life expectancy. Weatherproofing and Winterization: Winnipeg’s cold winters can impact mobile homes. Ensuring proper insulation, particularly in the skirting (the area around the base of the mobile home), can help avoid issues with frozen pipes and heating efficiency. Some homes may also require heat-traced pipes for extra protection. Upgrades and Retrofits: Many mobile homes feature smaller door and window frames than site-built homes. Upgrading to standard-size doors and energy-efficient windows can improve comfort and reduce heating costs. Usage: Homes used as full-time residences may wear out faster than those used seasonally. 5. Resale Value and Market Demand Resale Considerations: Mobile homes depreciate faster than traditional homes, which may impact resale value. Buyers should be prepared for slower appreciation rates and consult a REALTOR® familiar with the mobile home market for guidance.  Market Demand: Mobile homes are growing in demand among cost-conscious buyers in Winnipeg, but their resale value can be more sensitive to the condition, location, and age of the home than conventional properties. This may also affect the number of potential buyers when it’s time to sell. Steps to Buying a Mobile Home in Winnipeg Budget and Financing: Contact local lenders to understand financing options for mobile homes, especially given the impact of depreciation and potential anchoring requirements. Inspection and Appraisal: Hire a certified inspector to assess the condition of the mobile home, especially if it’s older. An appraisal can also help determine its remaining economic life, which may affect mortgage eligibility. Verify Anchoring and Condition: Ensure that the mobile home is securely anchored, and review its spec sheet for essential information. Consider any weatherproofing upgrades that may be needed to withstand Winnipeg winters. Review Lot Lease Terms: If the mobile home is in a park or on leased land, review lease terms carefully to understand all associated fees and services provided. Mobile home parks have policies that must be adhered to and will most often require an application by the buyer. The offer to purchase a mobile home is conditional on the park approval of the buyer, where application is required. Mobile Home Licenses, Fees, and Taxes Licenses Definition: A permit issued by a municipality for a mobile home, with an associated fee paid by the owner. Mobile Home Park: A residential complex with two or more mobile homes located for 60+ days. Privately Owned Mobile Home Parks License Fees: Some municipalities require mobile home owners to pay a license fee. Landlords often collect these fees on behalf of the municipality and pass them along. License fees are not considered rent, so landlords can implement fee increases immediately upon notice from the municipality (no three months’ notice is required). License fees are excluded when landlords apply for rent increases above the guideline. Municipal Taxes: Municipalities may assess taxes on mobile homes and other structures like garages or sheds. The landlord pays the taxes to the municipality and divides the cost among tenants. On tenancy agreements, landlords must clearly list the rent and any separate tax charges. Municipally Owned Mobile Home Parks Municipalities that own mobile home parks: Are exempt from rent regulation and land taxation. Can assess and collect taxes directly from mobile home owners. Act as a taxing authority, not a landlord, when collecting taxes. Taxes are not considered rent, so municipalities can increase them without providing three months’ notice, following their bylaws. Rent Increases: Rent increases require three months’ notice and can only occur once every 12 months. Rent and tax increases don’t need to occur simultaneously. Interior Single-Wide Mobile Home / Source: Best Buy Homes Interior Double-Wide Mobile Home / Source: Best Buy Homes Types of Mobile Homes Single-Wide: Typically up to 90 ft. long and 16-18 ft. wide, single-wide mobile homes are economical and easier to move. They consist of a single unit, making transport simple. Double-Wide: Over 20 ft. wide, double-wide homes consist of two large sections joined at the site, creating more interior space but with greater complexity for transportation. Some manufacturers are now also offering triple-wide mobile homes, especially common in rural areas, allowing for more space without high urban land costs. Financial Considerations and Cost Benefits Comparative Costs: While the average cost of a single-family home in Winnipeg can exceed $350,000, mobile homes start around $150,000.  Energy Efficiency: Many mobile homes are built to be energy-efficient, with modern insulation and windows, which can result in long-term cost savings. Low Initial Investment: A lower purchase price means smaller mortgage payments or personal loans, providing a financial advantage to those unable to afford high down payments on traditional homes. Mobile Homes and The Homesteads Act A mobile home can qualify as a homestead under The Homesteads Act in Manitoba, but certain conditions must be met: When a Mobile Home is a Homestead Used as a Family Home: The mobile home must be occupied by the owner and their spouse or common-law partner as their primary residence. On Owned Land: The land on which the mobile home is situated must also be owned by the same person who owns the mobile home. When it Doesn’t Qualify If the mobile home is located in a mobile home park where the land is rented, it would not be considered a homestead under the Act. The protection under the Act applies to land and the residence, so without land ownership, homestead protections don’t apply. This means that mobile homes on privately owned land may be protected under The Homesteads Act, but those in rented parks are not. Changing Perceptions and Demand Rising costs in urban areas have increased the appeal of mobile homes, with many new builds incorporating high-quality materials and modern design elements. As a result, mobile home parks and communities are gaining popularity, particularly as they offer a sense of community along with cost savings. Conclusion Buying a mobile home in Winnipeg can be an affordable way to achieve homeownership while enjoying the perks of a detached home and a private yard. However, it’s crucial to fully understand financing nuances, depreciation, and the specific requirements for maintaining and selling a mobile home in Manitoba’s unique climate. With the right preparation, a mobile home can be an excellent option for homebuyers in Winnipeg looking for space and affordability. If you’re ready to explore mobile homes your REALTOR® can guide you through the process, from financing to finding the right lot or park to make your homeownership dreams a reality.