Violence seems to be on the rise in Metro Vancouver lately with gang shootings becoming more prevalent. Many people are starting to wonder how these acts of violence are going to affect their resale values if they occur in their neighbourhood. The key is to remain aware and be proactive.
Keeping abreast of what is going on in your neighbourhood is always a smart idea whether you have a home for sale or not.
Safety is one of the key issues buyers will raise when they are looking into a new neighbourhood. Long ago are the days where the high-end gated neighbourhoods were the safer place to be.
By keeping on top of the issue, you and your realtor will be ready to address any questions or concerns that are posed to you.
It is also a good idea to form a neighbourhood watch. If there is violent crime in your area, or even if you have known criminals living nearby, a neighbourhood watch is a great way to make prospective buyers feel safe and secure with their purchase.
All neighbourhoods experience some level of crime so it is never deterrent for a buyer to see that your neighbourhood is proactive when it comes to controlling crime.
Having an alarm already installed in your home is another great way to keep buyers content.
If you live in a house or even a ground floor condo, a prewired alarm system is a fantastic selling feature. It is a minimal cost to have it installed and most new condo developments are already set up for them. Make sure your realtor points them out when conducting showings or an open house.
In the end it is important to note that almost all the gang shootings that have happened recently are targeted hits on specific individuals.
They are not epidemics that are specific to any part of the metro Vancouver area.
Understand that it is not the neighbourhood itself that is unsafe. Staying one step ahead in making sure all buyers feel safe in your home will go a long way to help ensure a speedy sale for you home.
– Ryan DeLuca is a realtor with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, and host of The Real Estate Minute on Novus TV; rdeluca@sothebysrealty.ca.
