Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is the Sellers Challenge Method for selling homes in Greater Vancouver?

Accepted Answer

The Sellers Challenge Method includes: 1) A free home evaluation with a walk-through and market analysis to set a realistic price range; 2) Preparing your home with prioritized improvements and professional marketing assets; 3) Listing your home strategically to create competition; 4) Internet-first marketing campaigns targeting active buyers; 5) Reviewing and negotiating offers with a focus on terms beyond price; 6) Managing closing details to ensure a smooth transaction. Juliana Vallée personally manages each step to protect your interests and keep you informed.

Question 2

How does Juliana Vallée determine the right price to list my home?

Accepted Answer

Juliana builds your pricing strategy by analyzing recent sales within the last 90 days in your immediate neighbourhood, reviewing active listings and expired listings to understand competition and pricing pitfalls, and considering the absorption rate for your property type and price range. She combines this data with a marketing launch plan to ensure your home attracts strong buyer interest from day one, avoiding the common trap of aspirational pricing that leads to stale listings and price reductions.

Question 3

What kind of preparation is needed before listing my home?

Accepted Answer

Before listing, Juliana walks through your home with a buyer's perspective to identify what upgrades and repairs will enhance appeal without unnecessary expense. She coordinates professional photography, video walkthroughs, and marketing materials to showcase your home at its best. The goal is to create strong first impressions online and in person, which is critical for generating buyer interest and competitive offers.

Question 4

How does Juliana Vallée market homes to reach serious buyers?

Accepted Answer

Your listing will be live on MLS® and realtor.ca with high-quality photos and video walkthroughs. Juliana runs targeted Facebook and Instagram ad campaigns aimed at buyers actively searching in your area. The RE/MAX network amplifies reach across North America, while direct agent-to-agent outreach connects with buyer agents representing clients in your price range. You receive regular feedback and market updates throughout the listing period.

Question 5

What happens during the offer review and negotiation process?

Accepted Answer

When offers arrive, Juliana analyzes purchase price versus list price, deposit amounts and timing, subject conditions and deadlines, completion and possession dates, and any special terms. She explains counter-offer options and manages deadlines to keep the process legally compliant. In multiple offer situations, she structures the process to maximize competition without legal risk. Ultimately, you make the final decision with full clarity.

Question 6

How does Juliana ensure a smooth closing process?

Accepted Answer

After accepting an offer, Juliana oversees the removal of subjects such as financing and inspections, communicates with your lawyer and the buyer's agent, and ensures all documentation and financial transactions are completed accurately. She keeps you updated on progress and timelines, helping avoid surprises. On completion day, she confirms keys are handed over and the sale is finalized.

Question 7

How long does it typically take to sell a home from evaluation to closing?

Accepted Answer

The timeline depends on your personal schedule and current market conditions. Juliana works with you to structure the process around your preferred timing, whether you need a quick sale or a longer timeline. Communication throughout ensures you know what to expect at each stage.

Question 8

What if I don’t want to do a lot of prep work before listing?

Accepted Answer

Not every home requires extensive preparation. Juliana assesses your property and local market to recommend only the most impactful updates. This approach avoids unnecessary expenses and focuses on what buyers in your neighbourhood expect and value.

Question 9

How do I get a free home evaluation from Juliana Vallée?

Accepted Answer

Start by submitting your home details through the website or contacting Juliana directly at 778-822-8000. She will confirm receipt and schedule a walk-through at your convenience. During the visit, Juliana assesses your home’s features, condition, and upgrades. She then researches comparable sales and current market trends to deliver a realistic price range and marketing strategy tailored to your property.

Question 10

Why is a professional home evaluation better than an online estimate?

Accepted Answer

Online estimates like Zillow or HouseSigma use broad data and cannot account for renovations, location nuances, or buyer demand specific to your neighbourhood. Juliana’s evaluation includes a walk-through, recent comparable sales, market absorption rates, and buyer psychology to provide a realistic price range designed to attract offers and maximize your sale price.

Question 11

What are the common pricing mistakes sellers make?

Accepted Answer

Listing 5–10% above market value often backfires because buyers eliminate overpriced homes early. Neighbour sales provide context but don’t guarantee your home will sell for the same price due to differences in condition and timing. Listing high to negotiate down can cause your home to sit, stigmatize the listing, and reduce buyer interest. Strategic pricing at or just below market value drives competition and higher final prices.

Question 12

What is strategic pricing and why does it work in 2026?

Accepted Answer

With more homes available, buyers can be selective and quickly dismiss overpriced listings. Pricing strategically attracts more showings in the critical first week, creating urgency and competition. Multiple offers often drive the final sale price above the list price. This method avoids the pitfalls of aspirational pricing and stale listings common in today’s Greater Vancouver market.

Question 13

How does Juliana build a pricing strategy for my home?

Accepted Answer

She pulls sales data from the last 90 days in your immediate area, compares your home’s features and condition to active listings, reviews homes that failed to sell to understand pricing pitfalls, and considers how quickly homes are selling in your price range. This data-driven approach is combined with professional marketing assets and launch timing to position your home competitively.

Question 14

What closing costs should I expect when buying a home in Greater Vancouver?

Accepted Answer

Key closing costs include: 1) Property Transfer Tax (PTT) calculated on a tiered scale with exemptions for first-time buyers and new construction; 2) Legal and notary fees ($1,200–$1,800); 3) Home inspection ($500–$800) plus strata document review for condos; 4) Property tax and strata fee adjustments reimbursing the seller for prepaid amounts; 5) Title insurance ($200–$400); 6) GST of 5% on new homes with possible rebates; 7) Mortgage-related costs such as appraisal fees and PST on mortgage default insurance premiums; 8) Moving expenses varying by distance and service. Planning for these costs avoids surprises at closing.

Question 15

Are there exemptions available for the Property Transfer Tax (PTT)?

Accepted Answer

First-time buyers receive a full exemption on homes priced up to $500,000 and a partial exemption between $500,000 and $835,000. Buyers of newly built homes get a full exemption up to $750,000 and partial exemption up to $800,000. Eligibility criteria apply, so it’s important to confirm your status early to maximize savings.

Question 16

How much should I budget for legal and notary fees when buying a home?

Accepted Answer

These fees are paid to your real estate lawyer or notary to handle all legal aspects of your purchase. Getting a written quote upfront helps avoid surprises. Your lawyer also arranges title insurance and coordinates closing paperwork.

Question 17

What should I know about mortgage-related costs when buying?

Accepted Answer

Appraisal fees typically range from $300 to $500 and may be covered by your lender. If your down payment is under 20%, mortgage default insurance (e.g., CMHC) is required, with the premium added to your mortgage. However, the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on that premium must be paid at closing. Understanding these costs early helps you budget accurately.

Question 18

Should I buy or rent in Greater Vancouver in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Renting may make sense if you need flexibility, have lower upfront cash, or are not ready for long-term commitment. However, rent payments do not build equity. Buying is advantageous if you plan to stay 3–5 years or more, have stable income and savings, and want to build wealth and control over your living space. The market currently favors buyers with more choice and less competition than peak years, but requires strategic positioning. A conversation with Juliana can help clarify what’s right for you.

Question 19

What makes Brentwood in Burnaby a popular neighbourhood in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Located in northwest Burnaby, Brentwood centers around The Amazing Brentwood development with residential towers, shopping, dining, and direct SkyTrain access. The area features mostly newer concrete high-rise condos with amenities like pools, gyms, and concierge services. Transit connections via the Millennium Line and proximity to Highway 1 make commuting easy. Parks like Willingdon and Brentwood Park provide green space, while Burnaby Lake and SFU trails are nearby. The neighbourhood appeals to first-time buyers, investors, downsizers, and young families seeking a connected, walkable community with good schools.

Question 20

What types of homes are common in Brentwood Burnaby?

Accepted Answer

Most inventory consists of modern condos featuring full amenity packages such as pools, gyms, and concierge services. One-bedroom units suit first-time buyers and downsizers, while one-bedroom-plus-den and two-bedroom condos attract couples and small families. Larger three-bedroom condos and penthouses with premium views are less common but available. Townhomes offer low-maintenance options on quieter streets. Buyers should consider strata health, floor plan efficiency, and amenity costs when choosing a unit.

Question 21

What are some of the best summer patios in Burnaby, New Westminster, and Coquitlam?

Accepted Answer

In Burnaby, Brentwood and Lougheed areas feature Italian, Asian fusion, and brewpub patios in pedestrian-friendly settings. Burnaby Heights offers family-run restaurants and cafes. Metrotown has newer mid-rise patios with casual dining. New Westminster’s Quayside Boardwalk provides waterfront patios with river views, while River Market offers indoor-outdoor seating. Sapperton’s brewery district and Uptown New West have casual patios and pubs. Coquitlam’s patios cluster around Coquitlam Centre, Austin Heights, and Maillardville, featuring diverse cuisines and relaxed atmospheres. Summer in Greater Vancouver is short, so locals prioritize patio dining when weather permits.

Question 22

What should I know about selling a home during divorce in Greater Vancouver?

Accepted Answer

Key considerations include agreeing on listing timing, price range, property preparation, showing protocols, offer review, and timelines. Presentation remains important to attract buyers despite emotional circumstances. Working with a REALTOR® experienced in divorce real estate helps keep the process focused on market facts and best outcomes rather than conflict. Legal advice is essential to understand ownership, mortgage responsibilities, separation agreements, and handling sale proceeds. Juliana coordinates marketing, showings, and negotiations with sensitivity and professionalism.

Question 23

What should I consider when buying a home after divorce?

Accepted Answer

Income, down payment, monthly expenses, and support payments may have changed. Speaking with a mortgage professional early clarifies what you qualify for and helps avoid stress. Choosing a home that supports your lifestyle, proximity to family or work, and emotional well-being is important. Downsizing or relocating may be options. Juliana provides guidance on realistic options and market conditions to support your transition.

Question 24

How can emotions impact real estate decisions during divorce?

Accepted Answer

The family home often holds sentimental value, making decisions difficult. Emotional responses may cause parties to reject reasonable offers or delay listing. Juliana’s role is to provide calm, honest advice, keep discussions fact-based, and manage the process with sensitivity. This approach helps clients make informed decisions that support their financial and personal goals despite emotional challenges.

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Juliana Vallee

REALTOR® | REALTOR® Burnaby, New Westminster, Coquitlam & Vancouver | Juliana Vallée