Option to subdivide country lot key to sale northwest of Calgary

262024 RANGE RD. 33, ROCKY VIEW COUNTY, ALTA.

ASKING PRICE: $1,275,000

SELLING PRICE: $1,245,000

TAXES: $6,132 (2016)

DAYS ON THE MARKET: 38

LISTING AGENTS: Steven Hill and Jacqueline Thorogood, Sotheby's International Realty Canada

The Action: It can take months to lure buyers to rural properties northwest of Calgary, so this luxury house with a four-car garage on a four-acre lot was listed below $1.3-million. About two dozen buyers ventured past its front gates and a party from Calgary arranged a deal by mid-September.

"This sold faster than the typical acreage property out in that area because of two factors," agent Steven Hill said.

"We priced it aggressively because the market above $1-million right now is pretty soft in Calgary; and the buyers saw value in this specific property because it's one of the only acreages in the area that could be subdivided."

What They Got: About 14 years ago, this 3,910-square-foot house was built with six bedrooms and multiple entertaining areas indoors and out, including a fenced-in tennis court.

The sprawling grounds are visible and accessible from several areas, including the combined kitchen and family room, dining room and living area. The latter also features double-height ceilings and a stone wall with a fireplace.

There is a main-floor den and a master retreat upstairs with a fireplace, balcony and one of five bathrooms. The 1,903-square-foot basement offers recreation and media areas.

The Agent's Take: "This property had a beautiful tennis court and panoramic, rolling valley views and full views of the mountains to the west, so it had that ideal blend of what people are looking for in an acreage lifestyle," Mr. Hill said.

"And it was a really large house with beautiful 18-foot ceilings in the main living room and a very open design with windows to not only get the sunlight, but also capitalize on the views."

VIEW THE ARTICLE HERE ON THE GLOBE AND MAIL

There’s a certain nostalgia that arrives with the end of summer. The days fade, the weather cools, and as some might have you believe, so does the real estate market. Or does it? Most trend reports would have you believe that spring and summer are landing A and A+ grades in buying and selling classes, but, believe it or not, autumn is sweeping in for extra credit. Here’s a look at how the back-to-school season affects the real estate market.

55 Farnham Ave, Toronto, ON

It’s widely acknowledged that June and July are typically the busiest times of the year for moving. This is also true of the Canadian market. This buying trend coincides with optimal weather patterns—it’s a near-guarantee for a snow-free moving day, curb appeal is ramped way up thanks to blooming flora, and it’s easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves in the space when backyards and patios are available for use. These sunny days will continue in most Canadian cities through September as well, opening up a longer moving window for buyers.

Timing Is Everything

One knock summer has against it: everyone is on vacation. For those with families, spring and summer can mean an endless stream of activities—hardly the time to tack finding a home on the to-do list. Autumn offers some relaxation and respite from the hustle, with kids back in school (but not so immersed in curriculum that a move would throw everything off) and parents typically have a more open social calendar. This is reflected in market trends—real estate specialists typically see an uptick in activity after Labour Day.

Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

The heat can make many potential home buyers feel frenzied and enter into 10-way bidding wars. Other buyers are wise to wait until the fall when tensions settle and the competition drops off. It’s less likely you’ll have to go above asking price after summer, so be prepared to lock down your dream home with a pre-approval and personalized note in hand.

On the flipside, sellers may find that home buyers will be more motivated to make a purchase in summer or early fall. The idea of moving in winter has far less appeal, and the opportunity to rake in on year-end tax benefits is closing.

143 Ch. Séguin, Mont-Tremblant, QC

Lean in to Local Markets

Just as many Canadians don the snowbird lifestyle and escape to a southern locale during the winter months, snow lovers and ski bums will be looking for deals up north. Properties near winter-centric towns and cities such as Tremblant, Whistler, Banff and Canmore, Calgary, and Vancouver may see a boost in buyer interest as sweater weather sets in. Cabin lovers and families looking to take advantage of winter break may also have an eye on cottage-country properties with year-round appeal.

Call it the back-to-school boost or the season for smart decisions—changing weather, more routine schedules, unsung opportunities, and local factors all confirm autumn is a prime new time to invest in real estate.

https://www.sothebysrealty.ca/insightblog/2017/09/27/does-back-to-school-real-estate-market/

Very Proud to have reached a FIRM SALE on this Stunning Executive Acreage in Bearspaw today! 

This was a special listing - it belonged to my broker who entrusted me and my colleague with the listing.  An honour to say the least (and a huge responsiblity)! 

We had very complicated negotiations (including competitive offers at one point), but finally crossed the finish line!  SO HAPPY! 

262024 Range Road 33 in Rural Rocky View County

See details here

Masterfully positioned to benefit the stunning unobstructed Rocky Mountains & rolling valley views, this executive 4 acre property offered a unique opportunity to own a tranquil and serene country home only minutes from Calgary & Cochrane. A gated, fully paved driveway leads to this remarkable home with over 5800 SqFt of developed living space featuring 6 bedrooms & 4.5 bathrooms. The tasteful architectural details like crown moulding and coffered ceiling, complement a layout featuring a fitness room, oversized 4 car garage, theatre space, wrap around veranda, chef's kitchen with spacious granite feature island, main floor office/den & sensational 18ft ceiling in the living room with full stone focal wall. This property offered something for every member of the family. Thoughtfully landscaped with full irrigation, there is plenty of room to enjoy both indoor & outdoor interests including a fully fenced tennis court. Offered to the market for the first time since originally built, this was a rare opportunity.

 

For More Information About This Amazing Property, Please Contact Steven Hill at 403-863-6344 or email at shill@sothebysrealty.ca

Back To School Booklist

If you’ve got that back to school feeling or just want some reading recommendations for the fall, check out our faculty choices for must-read books on art world topics!

Juliet Hacking
Subject Leader in Photography, Sotheby's Institute of Art – London

Roland Barthes, Camera Lucida: Reflections on Photography. Vintage Classics, 1993 (1980)

(first published in French as La Chambre Claire by Editions de Seuil 1980)

This is a classic of photographic theory. It is accessibly written and yet is full of complex ideas about how photographs act upon us. Set out as an investigation into the nature of photography, Barthes’ theories of the studium and the punctum were central to photographic theory for many years. Although a number of his propositions have now been critiqued (including his understanding of how photographs are made) his ideas provoke trains of thought in the reader that rise above the empirical. Barthes’ last book, Camera Lucida is a meditation not just on photography but on life, love and loss.

Sarah Conley Odenkirk
Associate Director, Sotheby's Institute of Art – Los Angeles

Sophie Calle, The Address Book. Siglio Press, 2012

In the early 1980s, French artist Sophie Calle found an address book in the streets of Paris which belonged to a man whom she did not know, but referred to as Pierre D. Calle photocopied the book, returned the original to Pierre and then proceeded to call each of the people listed in the address book and ask them questions about Pierre D. Using the information she gathered, Calle began publishing, in serial form, essays detailing the interviews and the information she learned about Pierre D. As soon as Pierre D. realized that the essays were about him, he was understandably furious and demanded that Calle not only stop publishing the weekly essays, but that as an act of recompense, she publish nude photos of herself. As a result of Pierre D.’s demands, Calle agreed not to publish the work until after his death.

I have my students in Legal Foundations read this book so that we can discuss the nexus between artistic practice and privacy rights. This book allows us to think about whether there is or should be a limit placed on artistic expression when it comes to using raw material that is personal to the subject matter of the expression. Is the ability of an artist to freely create and comment on anything more important than any one individual’s privacy? Is the fact that the work is created without “Pierre D.’s” knowledge or permission crucial to the concept of the work? These and other questions are not only interesting to ponder from a legal standpoint, but also help us frame the way that we treat conceptual work with human subjects.

Jos Hackforth-Jones
Director, Sotheby’s Institute of Art – London

Georgina Adam, Big Bucks: The Explosion of the Art Market in the 21st Century. Lund Humphries, 2014

Since the turn of the millennium, and the dramatic shift in the scale and scope of the art market, many publications have sought to consider the impact of this phenomenon on both the art world and the art market – particularly the unparalleled expansion of the contemporary art market.
During this period a number of studies have focused on the art market. Georgina Adam’s book examines the current state of the art market and considers both key players: auction-houses, dealers, artists and ‘taste-makers’ and key determinants in a changing market place with an emphasis on contemporary art and the rise of art fairs, online sales, the impact of emerging markets and new buyers and issues around transparency and market regulation. This book is a terrific and highly readable introduction to what sometimes appears to be an opaque art world and Georgina Adam effectively communicates some of the excitement which those of us lucky fortunate to work in this field experience.

Marcus Verhagen
MA Contemporary Art Faculty, Sotheby's Institute of Art – London

Jens Hoffmann ed., Ten Fundamental Questions of Curating. Mousse Publishing, Milan, 2013

Wide-ranging texts by prominent curators on different aspects of their trade. This anthology is a good introduction to current debates around curating, packed as it is with acute observations on recent shifts in both theory and practice. One highlight is Maria Lind’s chapter on the divergent priorities of large and small spaces (on this topic, see also Size Matters by the research collective Common Practice).

 Heidi Rasmussen
Librarian, Sotheby's Institute of Art – London

Anna M. Dempster ed., Risk and Uncertainty in the Art World. Bloomsbury, 2014

This is a popular title with our students and was one of our most borrowed books in the library in the last academic year.
It grew from a conference held at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, London, in 2011. It contains several essays each written by an expert in their field, and overall they give a broad overview of the risks in the art market. This includes questions of authenticity, risks within the expanding global art market, regulatory risks, investments risks on stamps and violins, and it also looks back into the past such as describing a dealer ring in Paris in the 18th century.

Our faculty and staff regularly publish texts that serve as academic resources for our students on topics such as art history, art valuation, global art markets, research methods and more. Check out Sotheby's Institute of Art's Publications page and take a look at the forthcoming title Art Business Today: 20 Key Topics, edited by Jos Hackforth-Jones and Iain Robertson, part of the Handbooks in International Art Business series.

When I was introduced to Steven Hill, I knew from the minute we met “this was the guy” to represent me. Steven has a very calm, soft approach to his dealing with people, unlike the ego driven who spout their credentials to impress. He listens to understand what the client wants rather than telling them what he wants.  He assured me he was confident in his ability to sell my property without over promising and I was skeptical, but boy did he deliver on that promise, and some.

Let’s start with the brochures. Sotheby’s brochures blow everyone else out of the water. A piece of paper, with black and white photos, gets lost in the bottom of a purse, or garbage bin, but a Sotheby’s brochure is a piece of art. Steven’s photographer created fabulous photos that took my breath away when the brochure arrived. My house looked beyond amazing yet true to the property. This alone sets Sotheby’s far above the rest by doing more than photocopying a sheet of paper to leave an impression. Very impressed.

Steven and I corresponded everyday and, after 5 days on the market, we accepted a conditional offer. I was thrilled Steven got the sale price I wanted, so quickly. Unfortunately, we found ourselves in a tense situation when the home inspector found a breach in our sewer line.  Immediately I got a quote for the repairs, and was fully prepared to cover the expense, but the buyer’s realtor was insisting on a sizeable holdback. This is where we witnessed Steven’s negotiation skills under pressure. He went head to head with the buyer’s realtor, as the buyers and ourselves stood by and watched. Steven insisted he would not allow his clients to have an open wallet, while the buyer’s realtor pushed harder and harder. Steven never once showed how irritated or upset he was by this realtor’s aggressive nature and, in a calm voice, kept insisting an open wallet was not going to work. This was a little unsettling with three days left to lift the conditions and I wasn’t holding out much hope the deal would close. Things looked grim, but once again Steven’s abilities and strong connections shone through…. he found a back up buyer who presented an offer we could not ignore. Of course, Steven had to bring this to the first buyer’s attention and, to everyone’s surprise, all conditions were lifted and we had a firm sale. Not only did I get my asking price but I no longer had to cover the repair expense. Steven was nothing but brilliant.

I believe somewhere along the way Steven and I became friends. I look forward to a “Hi Jane” text from him that always makes me smile. I thoroughly enjoy his kind, caring, easy going nature and his wicked sense of humor. I like his Porsche too (That’s just for you Steven.)

I would absolutely recommend Steven Hill to anyone looking for an honest, down to earth, hard working realtor. Sotheby’s International Realty represents class in all they do and Steven represents the best of Sotheby’s.

Jane K

Calgary, AB

June 22, 2017

Stunning New Listing Now Active In Drake Landing Heights!

Rare bungalow with 3 car garage, backing on to greenspace.  Beautiful open design and gorgeous designer details!

The foyer greets you with gorgeous wide plank distressed hardwood & front to back sunshine.

The open design offers 9ft ceilings & a dream kitchen with flush top granite island, gas range, built in ovens, extended height cabinets & plenty of workspace for the chef. A beautiful dining area seamlessly blends together to create the ideal family or entertaining space. The large living room features a lovely fireplace & ample windows with greenspace views.

The masters retreat feels like your own personal spa with a focal stand-alone soaker tub, separate shower & dual vanities.

Backing onto greenspace, this home has a very bright open concept.

A fully finished basement is complemented with two spacious bedrooms, a beautiful 3pc bathroom, open rec area & wet bar.

There is even a unique reading nook that has to be seen!

This stunning home offers an exposed aggregate driveway leading all the way up to the front door.

For More Details, Please Contact Steven Hill - at 403-863-6344

Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

Accredited Buyers Representative

Sellers Representative Specialist

Certified Condominium Specialist

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada has unveiled one of Greater Vancouver’s most significant, privately held residences, Belmont Estate. Situated on 1.28 acres, the elegant, custom-commissioned and designed 21,977 square-foot property is the family home of prominent Canadian philanthropists Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Rosalie Segal. The $63 million listing price sets a record for real estate in Greater Vancouver’s history.

With spectacular ocean views of Spanish Banks, the Strait of Georgia, West Vancouver, Downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains, the Estate is located in Vancouver’s most prestigious neighbourhood and has been an honoured venue visited by prominent dignitaries and celebrities from around the world.  

Designed by the acclaimed Ernest Collins Architect Ltd., the palatial home opens from a private Porte-Cochère entry into two main gallery halls with seating for 80 to 100 guests for private concerts and events. A sweeping grand staircase is lit by a French Ormulu chandelier, just one of the many historical pieces that complete the aesthetic of the Estate. The living room features a fireplace and Tai Ping custom made carpet.  The home’s intimate dining room seats 20 guests and features a Hokanson custom made carpet.  All doors throughout the home are made of solid wood and the fine detailing of the Estate is extensive and exquisite with walls and ceilings featuring murals and artwork.

Belmont Estate boasts five bedrooms and twelve bathrooms with all three storeys of the manor accessible by an elevator found in the west wing of the home. An Italian-inspired kitchen with sitting area and fireplace, indoor pool and sauna, six-car garage and a private entrance in-law’s suite are among the amenities that make this luxurious residence a classic and timeless home.

Inspired by the French gardens of Versailles, Belmont Estate features a tiered, 3-level garden lined with indigenous, mature sequoia trees, golden spruce, maples and many other varieties. The property also features a hobby orchard. In the spring, over 12,000 vibrant, colorful tulips, hyacinths and daffodils bloom throughout the gardens and are complimented by rhododendrons, magnolia and lilacs. The expansive terrace overlooks sweeping views and the extensively manicured hedging provides privacy.

“Belmont Estate represents a rare opportunity to own a residence that is iconic to Vancouver and British Columbia, on one of the most prestigious streets in Canada,” said Christa Frosch, listing agent with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada. “No other property of comparison has been offered in Greater Vancouver to date; the fact that its long-standing owners are beloved in our community for their philanthropic dedication to the City of Vancouver only adds to the home’s heritage. I believe that the buyer of this home will have a passion for art, history, luxurious landscapes and timeless design.”

WALL STREET JOURNAL 

Click here to read coverage of Belmont Estate in the Wall Street Journal

GLOBE AND MAIL

Click here to read coverage of Belmont Estate in the Globe & Mail

So Delighted For My Client To Have A Firm Sale On This Great Rocky Ridge Condo! Being a Certified Condominium Specialist Allows Me An Greater Advantage In Selling and Purchasing Great Units Just Like This One!

Now the House Hunting Begins!!!

Recently featured by Sotheby's Canada!  I am delighted to be wrapping up the day with a firm sale on this fantastic Elboya Listing. It was a Dream Bungalow Home With a Backyard Oasis!  I'm like a broken record to say that I have the privilege to work with amazing people.  This one is bittersweet because my clients found a wonderful home but the fun we have had along the way is drawing to a close!  I'm so grateful for such a rewarding career!