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How homebuyers can tune out the noise and navigate a difficult housing market
The Mortgage Pre-Qualification Tool by CENTUM Financial Group for CENTURY 21 Canada helps buyers take the first step
It’s no secret that the housing market is currently going through its fair share of ups and downs, and prospective homebuyers are feeling the emotional rollercoaster. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life and many potential homebuyers are quickly overwhelmed.
“There’s no end to the alarmist headlines, from interest rate hikes to inventory stats to endless market analyses,” says Todd Shyiak, executive vice-president of the CENTURY 21 Canada real estate brand. “Naturally, anyone who’s thinking of entering the market is hesitant to make any big moves and we see the ripple effect of that throughout the industry.”
But there are ways for buyers to regain confidence, and a big part of that comes from knowing what they need and what they can afford. Reaching out to a mortgage broker is a good step, but one that a gun-shy buyer may not be ready to take. Still, even if they’re unsure how serious they are about committing to a search, they’ll only benefit from having a hard number to work with. That was the driving factor behind a collaboration between CENTURY 21 Canada and Centum Financial Group, which resulted in their cutting-edge Mortgage Pre-Qualification Tool.
“We realized there wasn’t anything for a consumer to do once they found a listing they liked, but didn’t know if they could afford it,” explains Chris Turcotte, president and CEO of Centum Financial Group. “We wanted them to have a strong idea of what payments they could expect to make and whether or not that fit their lifestyle. That way, when they were ready to reach out to an agent or a mortgage broker, they could have productive conversations and, if necessary, make quick decisions with a high degree of confidence.”
Mortgage pre-qualification isn’t a binding agreement, so if it turns out buyers aren’t ready to take that step, then they’ll have the advantage of a number in the back of their mind whenever they decide to return to that search. And as interest rates fluctuate or more inventory comes into the housing market, having concrete information will stave off the stress that comes from doomsday headlines or the next analyst trying to predict the future.
“At the end of the day, we can only make informed predictions about what the housing market will do, but we can’t make any guarantees,” says Turcotte. “If you’re in the market for a new home, take the time to know your numbers and take control where you can — more preparation means less stress in the long run.”
To search for listings and try out the Mortgage Pre-Qualification Tool, visit c21.ca.
How You Can Use Feng Shui Practices to Improve Your Space
How You Can Use Feng Shui Practices to Improve Your Space
Feng Shui is an ancient practice that originated in China in 4000 BC. In its earliest form, it relied on astronomy to inform important building sites. It underwent many changes throughout history and often played an important role in China’s cultural evolution. Today, feng shui practitioners help people be more mindful of their space and carefully consider how the set-up of a room can make it feel peaceful and balanced.
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Understand the command position
A basic tenet of Feng Shui is the ‘command position’. In any room, this is the spot where you can see the door and have an easy overview of the entire space. The command position is where you want to place the focal point of the room, whether that’s your bed, your biggest couch or your desk. This gives you good energy and helps you feel at ease within the room.
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Keep space for energy to flow throughout your home
‘Chi’ is a term meant to refer to the vital flow of energy through people and places, and when using feng shui to design a room it is important to keep chi as balanced as possible. Too much clutter blocks energy and stifles a room, whereas too much emptiness will make you feel lost. Find a balance and keep doorways clear so that Chi can move easily through your home.
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Different plants for every purpose
Feng Shui extends to the natural world and can offer some insight into how to bring greenery into your home. As part of the ‘wood element’, plants are said to inspire compassion and connection. Ferns will purify the air for freshness, snake plants make a great statement and offer protection, and bonsai trees are said to bring money to your home. Above all, don’t keep dying plants around, they’ll bring the energy of your home way down.
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Be mindful about colours
It’s no surprise that the colours of a room can drastically change how you feel in it, and feng shui has many principles to help you choose which colours are right for you. Green is heavily connected to families, so could be good for rooms where you spend the most time together. Brown is considered ‘grounding’ and represents stability, good for a study or a bedroom. Purple has connotations of wealth, and use of it in your space could invite feelings of power and strength.
Monthly Features
DIY Project: Make a mini blooming garden
Show off your favourite succulents with a blooming garden that fits right on your tabletop!
Recipe: Quick Beef Stir Fry
This simple stir-fry is easy to throw together, even on your busiest weeknights.
CENTURY 21 SYSTEM RAISES NEARLY $3.1 MILLION FOR EASTERSEALS IN 2023 BRINGING LIFETIME SUPPORT TO $138.5 MILLION
CENTURY 21 COO Greg Sexton Appointed to Easterseals Board of Directors Further Enhancing Brand’s Commitment to the Organization
MADISON, N.J. (February 12, 2024) — Today, Century 21 Real Estate LLC announced that in 2023 the CENTURY 21® System raised more than $3 million for Easterseals, one of America’s largest nonprofit healthcare organizations that for more than 100 years has worked tirelessly with its partners to enhance quality of life and expand access to healthcare, education, employment, and transportation and mobility for millions of people with disabilities, including veterans and seniors. This includes the more than $60,000 raised during the brand’s first-ever International Week of Giving in July 2023. The CENTURY 21 network’s independent franchisees and affiliated relentless sales professionals have collaborated to raise $138.5 million since this philanthropic partnership began in 1979.
“For the CENTURY 21 Brand, giving back to the communities our system members serve every day has always been an integral part of who we are as a brand and our 45-year-long commitment to Easterseals is a true testament to that,” said Greg Sexton, COO of Century 21 Real Estate LLC who this past year was appointed to the Easterseals National Board of Directors. “I am so proud of the relentless efforts of CENTURY 21 affiliated brokers and agents across the country as they not only raise money but drive awareness for the important work of this remarkable organization. I’m excited to continue working even more closely with Kendra Davenport and the entire leadership team as we continue to elevate this relationship and truly make an impact for this community.”
“Easterseals’ relationship with the CENTURY 21 Brand is unique and powerful,” said Kendra E. Davenport, President and CEO, Easterseals. “CENTURY 21 System members are truly dedicated to Easterseals and our mission. We are fortunate to benefit from their integrity and commitment. CENTURY 21 affiliated brokers and agents across North America are helping Easterseals lead the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. We are thrilled to have Greg Sexton join our National Board of Directors and I look forward to building upon our 45-year relationship.”
In 2023, for the tenth consecutive year, the top two Easterseals fundraisers from the CENTURY 21 System were:
- CENTURY 21 Town & Country; Utica, Michigan
- CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company; Dallas, Texas
This is the 27th straight year that CENTURY 21 Town & Country has held the top spot among brokerages for fundraising efforts to benefit Easterseals.
This year, 13 of the Top 21 CENTURY 21® System fundraisers are Canadian firms, led by CENTURY 21 Foothills Real Estate in Alberta. The “Top 21” North American Fundraisers for Easterseals in 2023 were:
- CENTURY 21 Town & Country, Utica, Michigan
- CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company, Dallas, Texas
- CENTURY 21 Foothills Real Estate, High River, Alberta, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Millennium Inc. Brokerage, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
- CENTURY 21 B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. Brokerage, Barrie, Ontario, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Fusion, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty Ltd., Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Scheetz, Carmel, Indiana
- CENTURY 21 North Homes Realty, Lynnwood, Washington
- CENTURY 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc. Brokerage, Markham, Ontario, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Green Realty Inc. Brokerage, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty, McMurray, Pennsylvania
- CENTURY 21 Advantage Gold, Southampton, Pennsylvania
- CENTURY 21 Heritage House Ltd. Brokerage, Woodstock, Ontario, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Bamber Realty Ltd., Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Bachman & Associates, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Dome Realty Inc., Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Tenace, Coral Springs, Florida
- CENTURY 21 Novus, Carrollton, Georgia
- CENTURY 21 Trident Realty Ltd., Westphal, Nova Scotia, Canada
- CENTURY 21 Executives Realty Ltd., Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
A reception recognizing the achievement of the “Top 21” offices will be held on March 4th during the brand’s 2024 global conference, the One21® Experience, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The CENTURY 21 brand is looking forward to hosting its second annual International Week of Giving, July 24 -28, 2024, during which it will showcase philanthropic activities and fundraising efforts conducted by its global network of affiliates supporting communities across the country and around the world.
About Easterseals
Easterseals is leading the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. Trusted by families for more than 100 years, the organization has worked tirelessly with its partners to enhance quality of life and expand local access to healthcare, education, employment, and transportation. And we won’t rest until every one of us is valued, respected, and accepted. Through its national network of Affiliates, Easterseals provides essential services and on-the-ground supports each year to 1.5 million children and adults with disabilities, including veterans and older adults – from early childhood programs for the critical first five years to autism services, medical rehabilitation and employment programs, transportation and mobility services, veterans’ programs, and more. The organization’s public education, policy, and advocacy initiatives positively shape perceptions and address the urgent and evolving needs of one in four Americans with disabilities today. Together, they’re empowering people with disabilities, families, and communities to be full and equal participants in society. To learn more, visit www.easterseals.com.
CENTURY 21 Canada signs 26 franchises to renewals in 2023
January 26, 2024, Vancouver- CENTURY 21 Canada had many brokerages choose to remain in the fold, with 26 franchises renewing their contracts in 2023. Out of all franchises eligible for renewal last year, a notable 97% opted to for renewal, continuing a long trend of brand loyalty that stretches back decades.
“We pride ourselves on developing long-standing bonds within our network, and it’s great to see so many of our franchisees respond to that,” says Todd Shyiak, Executive Vice President of CENTURY 21 Canada. “We deeply appreciate their dedication to our brand and in turn we are going to continue providing the best tech and tools in the industry. More than anything, our team will always be a phone call away.”
Renewals include:
Franchise Renewals
CENTURY 21 Franchise owners have repeatedly spoken about what the personal support from the brand’s head office has meant to them, and how the brand’s reputation brings in both clients and agents. Grace Kelleher opened the doors to CENTURY 21 Kelleher Real Estate Inc. Brokerage in Mississauga in 1968 and chose to continue her decades-long relationship with CENTURY 21 Canada for another five years. “CENTURY 21 Canada is a very well-known brand; people are more likely to trust us when we display the gold seal on our signs and advertisements. This was a huge factor in me choosing to become a CENTURY 21 Canada franchisee. Being a part of this brand gets you in the door because everyone knows who we are; clients recognize the name and trust it,” says Kelleher.
Complementing the personal support from head office, CENTURY 21 Canada is also committed to providing the cutting-edge tools and technology brokerages need to thrive. Multiple training opportunities are also provided throughout the year, and the brand recently hosted their annual Canadian Management Academy, open to all owners in their network. The brand is looking forward to another year of success and helping each broker reach their full potential in the industry.
CENTURY 21 Canada Opens 18 New Offices in 2023
January 19, 2023, Vancouver- CENTURY 21 Canada ended 2023 on a high-note with a total of 18 new offices opening across the country.
“We didn’t know how the year was going to go, but we stood by our value proposition and once again, brokers responded,” says Todd Shyiak, Executive Vice President of CENTURY 21 Canada. “As the real estate market in Canada comes down from the high of the past few years, more and more brokers are seeing the value in the training, tech and personal support that we aim to provide each and every one of them. Our team is the best in the business and there’s nothing we haven’t experienced, so if one of our brokers needs a word of advice, we’re here for them.”
New Franchises and Offices
| CENTURY 21 Smart Realty | Edmonton, AB |
| CENTURY 21 Twin Realty | Hinton, AB |
| CENTURY 21 River’s Edge Ltd. | Winchester, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Shield Realty Ltd. | Lancaster, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Property Zone Realty Inc. | Brampton, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Percy Fulton Ltd. | Brighton, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Green Realty Inc. | Mississauga, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Creekside Realty Ltd. | Chilliwack, BC
Chilliwack, BC |
| CENTURY 21 Creekside Realty Ltd. | Agassiz, BC |
| CENTURY 21 Creekside Realty Ltd. | Abbotsford, BC |
| CENTURY 21 Gillany Realty | Whitecourt, AB |
| CENTURY 21 Northern Realty | Vaughan, ON |
| CENTURY 21 Quantum Realty | Edmonton, AB |
| CENTURY 21 Trident Realty Ltd. | North Sydney, NS |
| CENTURY 21 ACE | Calgary, AB |
| CENTURY 21 Profusion | Montreal, QC |
| CENTURY 21 Power Realty Ltd. | Calgary, AB |
Owner of CENTURY 21 Gillany Realty, Rizwan Sayed, has seen the advances in real estate technology and created an innovative space for agents under the CENTURY 21 Canada brand. “I had heard great reviews of the brand, and I liked that they innovate,” says Sayed. “They are constantly looking for ways to improve and evolve, they provide a full suite of technology tools to help us push forward and the physical human support I get from the head office has no equal in the industry.”
Vikaas K. Kwatra opened the first office of 2023 in Edmonton, CENTURY 21 Smart Realty. “My main motivation is to help new agents because if they don’t have the right teacher, they leave within six months of joining the industry,” he explains. “I was with the brand for a long time and when I wanted to open my own brokerage, my experiences with their tools, culture and support system made them better than anyone.”
CENTURY 21 Canada now boasts approximately 400 offices across Canada and, in addition to its new franchises, renewed contracts with 26 brokerages in 2023.
Refresh Your Space with The Colours of The Year!
Refresh Your Space with The Colours of The Year!
Each year, paint companies announce their colour of the year, a tradition that lets us think about incorporating new trends into a tired space if you’re in need of a change. For 2024, we’ve got gentle pastels alongside bold hues, so no matter your style, there’s a colour that’s right for your palette.
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Peach Fuzz (Pantone)
One of the most anticipated announcements from the world of paint, Pantone has named ‘Peach Fuzz’ their colour of the year for 2024. A soft and gentle colour reminiscent of a summer day, their Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman described their choice as “an echo of our innate yearning for closeness and connection.” To help bring people together in your home, see if this shade fits in your family room where its soft hue will be easy on the eyes.
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Blue Nova (Benjamin Moore)
This rich hue is sophisticated and classic, a good choice for living rooms and dining rooms. If you’re working with a smaller space, consider painting an accent wall to not overwhelm the room, or pairing it with lighter accents for more balance. The team at Benjamin Moore made their choice in hopes of inspiring thoughts of space travel and adventure.
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Persimmon (HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams)
Another light-orange shade, this colour is different while still being classy, a way to introduce colour without being garish. Its neutral undertones make it easy to work with, and if used in a living room, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to play with contrasting colours through your accents.
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Cracked Pepper (Behr)
Black walls may make you think of your goth phase, but this softer shade is a grown-up hue that makes your space feel classic and cozy. Best used in larger rooms with plenty of light to keep things from getting gloomy, and furniture to complement the colours. Complement the walls with shades of blue, or go full contrast with lighter cream-coloured pieces.
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Upward (Sherwin-Williams)
Need something lighter? This pale blue is reminiscent of a day at the beach, and pairs beautifully with white accents. If your space has been making you feel uninspired, this is a great option to refresh the whole room and lift your spirits every time you enter.
Monthly Features
DIY Project: Create your own canvas art
Take your room refresh one step further with homemade canvas art! It’s easy to get started with no experience required, and you’ll be surprised by just how elegant your final result can look.
Recipe: Broccoli Soup
Keep the winter cold away with this hearty and healthy soup! Simple to make and keep in your freezer, you won’t have to go to a restaurant until spring.
A new start for Ottawa’s Century Action Power Team
CENTURY 21 Action Power Team Ltd. was recently sold to Marc-Andre Perrier and Stephen George, who both began in real estate with the company. The pair saw the opportunity to continue the 45-year legacy built by former owners, Pasquale Ricciuti and Suzanne Robinson.
“We’re passionate about growth and innovation,” says Perrier in a release. “We want to expand our team, embrace emerging technologies and leverage all the tools that CENTURY 21 Canada provides.”
“It’s great to see new owners come into established brokerages with a fresh perspective,” says Todd Shyiak, Executive Vice President of CENTURY 21 Canada.
“As longtime members of our network, Marc-Andre and Stephen are in the best position to continue our commitment to the gold standard level of service while also looking for ways to bring in new technology and training programs that will see the brokerage grow, year after year. They’ve been great to work with and we look forward to seeing them at our annual events for many years to come.”
What led them to purchase
George was ready to bring a fresh perspective to the industry. “We’ve witnessed significant change during our time here,” he explains. “We want to take advantage of the cutting-edge technology and new opportunities that CENTURY 21 Canada offers to brokerages.”
Perrier praises the brand’s annual OneC21 conference, an opportunity for CENTURY 21 professionals to get together, connect and learn.
“Our recent experience at the OneC21 conference was incredible,” mentions Perrier. “We enjoyed the networking opportunities and recognized how CENTURY 21 Canada is leading the way in modernizing the real estate industry.”
George appreciates CENTURY 21 staying ahead of the curve. “We admire how CENTURY 21 Canada is continuously improving their technology offerings,” he explains. “Their websites for every agent and their partnership with MoxiWorks are just two examples. We knew our brokerage could become even more future-ready.”
What’s next?
The new owners are embracing the future in the plans for the brokerage. They look to bring on like-minded agents who share their values and can thrive in change. This strategy includes leveraging local expertise and focusing on what sets Ottawa and area communities apart.
“It’s all about serving our local communities and continuing to give back,” says George. “We want to provide exceptional service and expertise in our specific areas.”
The Benefits of Using a Realtor for Home Sellers and Buyers
Navigating the complex world of real estate can be daunting for both home sellers and buyers. That’s where a qualified realtor can make a world of difference. Professional realtors assist individuals in navigating the complex home buying and selling processes. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, this article will explain the numerous benefits of using a realtor. Let’s dive in!
For Home Sellers:
Expert Market Knowledge:
Real estate professionals have an in-depth understanding of the local real estate market. They know pricing, trends, and competition, so they can set the right price for your house. Their expertise ensures that your property receives maximum exposure and attracts the right buyers.
Extensive Network and Marketing:
Real estate professionals can access a vast network of potential buyers and industry professionals. They utilize various marketing channels to promote your home effectively, including online listings, social media, and their professional network. By tapping into their connections, realtors can attract qualified buyers and facilitate a quicker sale.
Negotiation Skills:
When it comes to negotiating offers, real estate agents are invaluable. They act as a buffer between you and the buyer, protecting your interests. Real estate professionals possess excellent negotiation skills and can help secure the best possible deal for your home, taking into account market conditions, buyer demands, and preferences.
Learn more about how CENTURY 21 Canada® supports your home-selling journey here.
For Home Buyers:
Access to Exclusive Listings:
Realtors have access to many properties, including ones that have yet to be available to the public. They can provide you with a curated selection of homes that match your criteria, saving you time and effort in the search process. Additionally, realtors stay updated on new listings, ensuring you’re among the first to know about desirable properties.
Expert Guidance and Support:
Buying a home involves numerous complexities, from understanding legal documents to navigating inspections and negotiations. Real estate agents know these intricacies and can help you through the entire process, giving you valuable advice and ensuring you know what you’re doing. With their support, you can have peace of mind and minimize potential risks.
Market Insight and Price Analysis:
Realtors possess extensive market knowledge, enabling them to provide valuable insights into property values, market trends, and neighbourhood amenities. Your agent will determine a fair price for a house and negotiate the best deal.
Learn more about how a CENTURY 21 REALTOR® goes beyond the transaction and will be there for you every step of your home-buying journey here.
Whether you’re selling or buying a home, enlisting the services of a realtor can be immensely beneficial. Realtors can provide invaluable support throughout your real estate journey, from their market expertise and extensive networks to their negotiation skills and guidance. Their knowledge and experience help streamline the process, save time, and protect your interests. So, if you’re considering selling or buying a home, don’t underestimate the advantages of partnering with a qualified realtor. It could be the key to a successful and stress-free real estate transaction.
Get started with a C21 Realtor today to find your dream home.
Sales associate of the year awarded to Kelowna realtor, Anne Wolfe: Century 21 Canada
Of 12,000+ hardworking CENTURY 21 Canada realtors, Anne Wolfe of Kelowna, British Columbia’s CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. was named 2023 Sales Associate of the Year.
She was recently given the award by CENTURY 21 Canada president and CEO, Martin Charlwood, at the annual OneC21 conference in Calgary.
Wolfe, who recently surpassed 20 years with the company, was picked from a candidate shortlist of five, based on an open nomination call from the company’s agents and brokers. Criteria included industry success, ties to the community, tech tool and program engagement, and representation of the brand’s “Gold Standard” of client excellence.
CENTURY 21 Assurance broker Anna Carbone commended Wolfe on several fronts, including her commitment to the brand, participation in community initiatives and enthusiastic support for Easter Seals, CENTURY 21 Canada’s national charitable partner. Carbone also noted Wolfe’s 10-year CENTURION® status, the highest honour given to those in CENTURY 21 Canada’s system.
“Anne is just well-rounded,” says Carbone. “I believe she exemplifies all the traits of a successful agent while also maintaining a good work-life balance.”
Wolfe gave credit to the support and stability her brokerage and the brand provided for her success:
“I am incredibly grateful to have received the C21 Sales Associate of the Year award. Having been actively selling with the C21 banner for over 20 years, it speaks to the integrity and strength of the organization, as well as its ability to pivot and grow with the changing times. Both the support of my local Kelowna office and my CENTURY 21 family as a whole are a huge part of my success in real estate!”
Century 21 Names CENTURY 21 Masters Franchise of the Year
CENTURY 21 Masters of Edmonton was honoured with Century 21’s Franchise of the Year award this month in Calgary at OneC21 2023, the brand’s national network conference.
The award is given by the company’s head office to a franchise that’s consistently shown record success, contributed to their local community and helped fundraise for the brand’s national charitable partner, Easter Seals.
This was the first time the brokerage earned the title since opening in 2004.
“It meant so much to accept the award in a room full of fellow C21 network members who I respect and admire,” says co-owner Geneva Tetreault. “Rarely do we get to truly say thank you to the people who have helped us, and we are so proud to work with an amazing and inspirational group of agents who help us to be better each and every day.”
Tetreault has been with Century 21 Canada since 2004, while the brokerage’s other owner, James Mabey, has run his company since 2006. They joined forces in 2018. “Over the last five years we have been able to find a new level of drive, growth, passion and success,” Tetreault explains.
“Geneva and James have really brought out the best in their team, they’re an incredible pair of leaders, and they continue to take their brokerage to new heights,” says Todd Shyiak, Executive Vice President of Century 21 Canada. “They’ve come so far in five years and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them. We’re committed to supporting their growth every single step of the way.”
