Five in a row.

Can you believe it? The Blue Bombers are going to the Grey Cup game for the FIFTH straight time!  I will be the first to admit that back in 2019 when Zach Collaros showed up in the Peg City, I didn’t believe that would change anything.

And all they’ve done since then is win a whole bunch!

But I’d also say, after the past couple years of disappointment in the big game, that it’s time to bring that Grey Cup back to Manitoba!  After a tough start to the year, the Blue have been on quite a run, and I’d love to see that carry into Sunday.

If you’re like me, you’re planning to watch the game.

The days are long gone of going to a bar or lounge to enjoy a big game like that.  I’d much rather get together at someone’s house or even host a watch party.  But when I consider hosting, and I imagine you might be the same, the question always pops up in my head…

Is my place worthy of a Grey Cup party?? 

Most of us these days likely have a TV that’s big enough to watch, but do we have the space and comfy furniture to have a few friends over?  Do we have an island or spot to put all the appy’s and snacks?  If not, we always find a way to make due to cheer on our teams, but these are the things we likely think about from time to time.

Well, in case you don’t feel your home is host-worthy, I can’t get you into a different home by Sunday.  But if you feel you could benefit from a better entertaining space, I could make that happen in time for Super Bowl! Give me a call and we can explore your wish list and find you exactly what you’re looking for!

Let’s Go Bombers!  For the W!

The ensuite.

I mean, who doesn’t love a well-designed ensuite with that gorgeous tiled shower, double vanity, heated floor, space and privacy.

Sounds pretty great, right?

I’ve been fortunate to have one in a couple of houses I’ve lived in, but sadly, I’m currently ensuite-less. I’ve pulled out the measuring tape, done some sketches, even have a couple layouts on a Pinterest board, but alas, I’m stuck sharing a bathroom with the kids.

Ok ok, it’s not that bad.

I know I’m not alone. Many of us live in a home that just wasn’t designed for one. We make the most of it. But, it is one of those desired features that many people look for when searching for a home.

We all want that extra little space to ourselves, right?

I have good news! My residential listings currently on the market ALL have ensuites! One has a freshly updated one with dual sinks, the tiled shower, natural light… another is spacious, attached to the walk-in closet… the third fits it all in and although a little tighter, it still provides the space and utility that’s desired.

So, if you’re looking to upgrade to an ensuite, give me a call.

We’ll find you exactly what you’re looking for.

Dad Tax!

The trick or treating will be in full force tonight as the kids go out in our communities and see just how full they can fill their bags/pillow cases/wagons! And of course, as the ritual would have it, dads everywhere will be swooping in and laying their claim to a decent portion of the haul.

Dad Tax!

Let’s be clear, the dad tax is applicable in all jurisdictions throughout the year. It often shows up driving in the car with a dad hand sliding between the front seats when our kids have something sweet in the back. However, I’d be willing to lay money on the line that the tax rate goes up substantially every Oct 31st (and likely for days & weeks to come).

I lay claim to a variety of candy – Reeses PB cups, Reeses Pieces, M&M’s, among others and of course my all-time favourite, ROCKETS!

I’m not a big Hallowe’en guy, and don’t love getting dressed up. But the candy & chips part of the night, that’s something I can support!

May all the kids heading out this evening have fun and be safe!

And to all those dads out there, enjoy the most profitable Dad Tax day of the year!

PS – if you have an over abundance of Rockets, you know who to call!

Exams.

They are one of those things that we all go through at some point or another, but I haven’t met too many people that actually enjoy them. Everyone approaches them differently, but in the end, they are one of the few ways to really gauge how well someone understands subject matter.

I think we all hope that at some point we will have written our last one, but we never really know. I’ve written dozens over the years, and it doesn’t really matter when it’s been, there’s a different set of nerves that kick in right before I walk through that door.

A week ago, it was no different.

I was prepared. I knew the course material. I was pretty confident that I was going to do well. And still, those nerves were still there, just like they always are.

I’m happy to report that I PASSED! The successful completion of the next level of my Commercial Real Estate designation is finished!

I have spent countless hours understanding the unique ways in which Commercial real estate works. There’s a large variety of different properties and businesses, and also rules, regulations, and complex contract details to understand when you embark upon a commercial transaction.

Having an agent on your side that can explain and calculate Capitalisation Rates, Time Value of Money, Rates of Investment Returns, Amortization Schedules, Debt Service Coverages, Lending Values, etc, is a very good thing. They are all important details, depending on the type of purchase or sale, and your short & long-term real estate goals.

So, if you’ve been contemplating a commercial real estate investment or sale, give me a call. Not only is that a large part of what I do, I also have the knowledge and credentials to lean on to provide you with great advice and guidance.

I wish I could tell you that was my last exam, but I know it wasn’t.

There’s always more to learn.

The gym.

Huh? It’s not January 1st, why are we talking about the gym?!

I’m like most people out there, I’ll admit. At the beginning of every year, I have talked about going to the gym for years, and here we are in my mid-40s, and darn it, I finally did it (well, starting in February, but shhh!)

Going on 8 months strong, I’ve been making the time for myself to get stronger & healthier. It’s better for myself, for my wife, for my kids – for not only my body, but also my mind.

When I first walked in that gym, I was nervous. I had never done it before. I was a little overwhelmed, even though I’d say I had a general knowledge of what I might do. I mean, how hard can it be?

Well, let’s just say, hiring a personal trainer guide me through the ins and outs was the best decision to make by far! He’s attentive to what I need individually, provides me specific exercises and weight loads to get me the best results, and ensures that I don’t hurt myself as we go through the program.

Pretty important, right?

Guess what? The expertise my personal trainer provides me at the gym, is very similar to the expertise I strive to provide my clients in real estate! Working with you individually to provide you a tailored solution to get the best results we can when buying or selling a home, and do it as pain free as possible!

So… if you’re looking to start going to the gym, give my buddy Devon @431strengthsquadron a call! You’ll be blown away for his amazing attitude and caring approach to being healthy and strong. It’s been a blast and can’t wait to keep it going!

And…if you’re thinking about buying or selling your home, and would like some personalized advice to make it happen, give me a call - I’d love to help you out.

AI.

It’s all around us, even if we don’t even realize it. It’s an incredible tool, and there are plenty of ways to have it infiltrate our personal and business lives, I believe, mostly for the better.

Artificial Intelligence.

A few years back, it was an idea that had been spoken about, that we knew would eventually find its way into the world. All of a sudden, 18 or so months ago, it blew up! Within weeks of the first Chat GPT, there were many followers, and it hasn’t stopped.

In real estate, there are plenty of ways that we can use AI. We can automate processes, we can digitally stage homes in photos, we can use it to find stats and information quickly. It could even write this blog for me in mere seconds.

It is a great tool – and that’s what it is, a tool. When I look at what I offer to those I’m fortunate to work with, I look to integrate it and be more efficient, but I don’t want to lose sight of what I’m really striving for.

AE.

It is something that I think we can all appreciate when we receive it. To me, it’s a differentiator and it drives me personally to come back and do business with that person again in the future.

Authentic Experience.

I do my best to be truly myself – someone with many years of professional experience to offer, someone who has bought and sold a number of homes and truly understands the process, someone who has a quirky sense of humour at times, and enjoys keeping the experience light and fun when appropriate.

There’s plenty of technology out there and it’s a great way to save some time and implement some new ideas easier than it was before. But it doesn’t do everything for us.

I personally answer my phone, I personally reply to my texts and emails. I have made the conscious decision to type out this blog for you guys every week, so you can read my thoughts and insights.

There is no doubt that AI is here to stay.

The great news is that for my clients, so is AE.

Routines.

Here we are, getting into late September and the schedules are starting to fall into place. If your homes are anything like mine, those schedules are BUSY!

And when it comes to managing the routines, and being prepared for the week’s activities, it’s important to have a central hub where it all comes together. Where everything has its place, it’s always organized, and everything just runs smoothly.

HAHAHAHA!

If that’s your house, well done!

It can be a lot – and having a home base that checks off most of those boxes does help.

I mean, for me, let’s see what we have going on… 3 volleyball teams, 3 hockey teams, some cattle shows, school activities, and the every day stuff that pops up. The white board calendar – oh it’s full!

That’s where the central hub can help. When you get back from the day’s “stuff”, it certainly helps to have a home to put things away where they need to be, have room to organize for the next day, and a place to put your feet up and relax.

If that doesn’t sound like your current situation, I’d love to help you find a place that helps your routines function better. After all, you work hard to make it all happen, and if I can help make that easier for you…

I’m in.

Derby Time!

This weekend, the St Jean ATV Derby is happening once again! For over 20 years, outdoor enthusiasts have converged into St Jean Baptiste to meet up with their ATV riding friends, check out some amazing river-side quad trails, and play in the MUD!

There is really nothing like Red River gumbo (especially when it dries)!

This event started as a small community gathering and has evolved into the largest event of its kind in Canada! Some years have had nearly 2,000 riders take to the trails to enjoy 40 kilometres of scenery that winds along the banks of the Red River.

Most enjoy the trail riding and others, well, they are just there to get as muddy as they possibly can!

And OH, they do!

I have been involved with this event over the years from being part of the crew that extended the trails twenty years ago, to being part of derby operations when I was a fire fighter in town, to volunteering with registration and canteen operations, and more recently as a proud derby sponsor in partnership with my wife Emma.

It’s amazing to see the community come together to pull this enormous event together and have it run so smoothly. Over 100 people give of their time to welcome visitors to the area, and ensure they have a great time, while fundraising for important community causes.

Here’s a big thank you to them, and even bigger shout out to the committee that does the heavy lifting, trail clearing, park set up and bring it all together!

So, if you’ve got a quad in the yard, and looking for some fun on Saturday, come check it out!

I’ll see you there!

Friends.
Where would we be without friends? And yes, that could be actual people you hang out with, or if you’re a TV binge-watcher for 90s shows, F•R•I•E•N•D•S! Either way, sometimes we just want to enjoy the company of those that help us relax, and likely make us laugh.

Life gets busy, and sometimes it feels as though weeks and months go by without seeing some of our friends. Whether it’s work, kids activities, projects we have on the go, there’s always something that fills our schedule and makes it tough to make plans or even keep plans that have been made.

But certainly, when time does allow, and we can finally find an evening to have people over, we definitely want to be able to host in a space that reflects our personality, our style, and that we are proud to showcase.

Does your home reflect your personality and style?

If not, and you kind of prefer when someone else hosts because you don’t feel like your place has the feeling you’re hoping for, let’s chat. Maybe there’s house out there that is perfect for you and your style and you can proudly call it home.

And then host ALL the parties!

Speaking of friends I haven’t seen in a while, earlier today I bumped into a friend of mine that I’ve known for over 20 years now (time does fly by!). Well, here’s a shout-out to you, my friend! It was great seeing you and glad you enjoy these Thursday Thoughts!

Hopefully you all get a chance to catch up with a friend you haven’t seen in a while, and maybe, just maybe, find time to sit down for a coffee with them!

If not, enjoy the sitcom reruns, or if you just need to smile, Google “Ross Geller” and click on the couch 4 times…you can thank me later!

Chiefs vs Ravens.

The 2024 NFL season has kicked off. Yes, I’m a football fan. I wouldn’t say I’m over the top, but I enjoy watching and enjoying the production that is NFL football.

But hold up! Don’t worry, I’m also a CFL fan, and pretty happy the Bombers have figured out some of their early season issues and put together a pretty good run after a shaky start.

It’s safe to say that my TV would tell you that most of what I watch is sports. So, when a new season kicks off, (hockey season is around the corner), you can likely find me kicking back in my recliner and enjoying.

If you’re a sports fan like me, you know how important it is to have your “spot” to settle in and watch the magic happen. I don’t have a fancy man-cave, but I do have my trusty, nearly 20 year old chair that’s starting to show its age.

That fancy man-cave could be fun though!

If you are tuning into the new football season, and wishing you had that “spot” that could be perfect for you, or to have your family and friends to come over and enjoy your favourite teams, let’s connect.

Maybe that “spot” comes with a new kitchen to prep all the appys, the man-cave that fits that big sectional, and if you’re lucky, there’s a hot tub outside to relax in after the game. Whatever you’re looking for, I’m sure there’s a home out there that would fit the bill - I’d be happy to help you find it.

This first game of the season is a close one – hope you got to enjoy some of it too. My fave NFL team isn’t playing today… and I’m excited to see how they’ll do when they hit the field on Sunday.

SKOL Vikings!

Hockey?

Yes, it’s still August. But yes, hockey. In August.

Here we are, in our shorts and flip flops, bringing our kids to the rink to shake the beach sand off, tie up those skates that hopefully still fit, and get back into the sport that will keep us busy until spring!

After all, hockey season is only about 6 or 7 weeks away.

Yes, time flies.

If you’re like me, you’re already wondering where the hockey equipment is gonna spend the winter drying out after every practice, every game. Maybe there’s a new player in the family, or as they grow, they just take up more room.

Wouldn’t it be great to not trip over shoulder pads and gloves going into the laundry room, or as you step into the garage?

Great news! Maybe we can find a home that has a dedicated sports room? Or even just a little extra space so you’re not tripping over the equipment (or just to keep the scent at bay, lol)!

Might even be able to make it happen before the season really ramps up!

If you’re running back and for th to the rink this week, and when you get home, you have those thoughts that a little extra space would be great… give me a call – maybe we can solve that little problem together.

But when the weekend rolls around, hang up the skates and head to the beach or the lake – it’s gonna be amazing SUMMER weather!

1095.

No, not just some random number. It is, in fact, the number of days in 3 years. And while three years sounds like a long time, it actually goes by pretty darn fast!

Last week, I celebrated my 3 year anniversary of becoming a Realtor. When I look back, there were some days that were amazing and flew by, and I certainly had some long days where things weren’t going well, and wondered if the ball would actually start to roll.

The hard fact is that over half of all real estate agents don’t make it past the first year!

But here I am, 156 weeks later, still rolling. So once again, I’m grateful.

I feel privileged to get to serve those who begin as strangers and often turn into good friends during an emotional and stressful but also super exciting and fun time in their life. I’m thankful to those who have asked me to be the trusted expert in buying or selling their homes. It is a great experience to celebrate a successful sale, or hand over the keys to that new home and new chapter of life.

Sometimes, it doesn’t always work out. The house doesn’t sell, or we can’t find the right home to buy…I’m blessed to have learned from those experiences as well, as frustrating and disappointing as it may have been at the time.

I don’t take this journey alone – it takes the support of many to make it all happen.

So, a big shout out to my wife, who encourages me every day… and the amazing team at Coldwell Banker Steinbach – we work hard, we support each other always, and always strive to do the best for our clients every day.

Here’s looking forward to another 1095 days!