AWESOME WATERFRONT RESIDENCE!

• 2,560 sq. ft., 4 bath, 3 bdrm ranch "AWESOME WATERFRONT RESIDENCE!" - MLS® $1,295,000

Kawkawa Lake, Hope  -  WHAT A FANTASTIC PACKAGE...Imagine Top Notch Lakeside Living!

From the Incredibly Maintained Executive Rancher with full walk-out bsmt., Spectacular Unobstructed Lake & Mountain Views, massive covered (48x10'9) sundeck & expansive patio to the fully contained quality (760 sf nicely finished BEACH HOUSE), amazing landscaped lot with 75' of beachfront & well constructed dock this property on the pristine shores of Kawkawa Lake is a perfect choice for year round living or make it your dream home getaway and or B&B? Easy to maintain yard with in-ground sprinkler system, double garage + loads of parking space.

Newer heat pump a/c system, newer 30 yr roof, security system, 2 gas f/p's, beautiful french doors with crystal handles, Huge Master Bedroom with soaker tub and seperate shower in ensuite + w.i. closet and built-in vanity.

Beach house just moments to dock and sizable lawn area is nicely updated with tile flooring, vinyl siding & metal roof outfitted to keep your guests completely comfortable. Includes full bathroom and kitchen, large bedroom and good sized living room area. REVENUE MAKER?? RENT OUT DURING THE FISHING OR SUMMER SEASON??

Create lasting memories and major fun in the sun with your family.

Private Scenically Supreme Setting, Warm Water, great swimming, boating & fishing. 1.5hr paved drive from Vancouver!

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Shannon Babcock  -President's Club 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Sutton Group Showplace Realty
Buy Smart. Sell Smart.
604-795-1081
http://www.soldonhopebc.com
http://www.shannonbabcock.com

sbabcock@sutton.com

4.5 Eagle Tree Lodge

• 4,070 sq. ft., 5 bath, 6 bdrm 2 story split "Stunning private waterfront 4.5 STAR LODGE B&B" - MLS® $1,399,000

Agassiz, Vancouver Coast & Mountains    

-  This absolutely stunning private waterfront 4000+ sq.ft. log, post & beam meticulously handcrafted residence has incredible attention to detail, unique custom features and is loaded top to bottom with luxurious finishings & elegant touches that would please the most discerning buyer.

Designed to take advantage of the spectacular Mount Cheam & river views, situated on over and acre of land located on a secluded tributary of the Fraser river, only 1 1/4 hour scenic, paved drive from Vancouver! From the gorgeous open floor plan, amazing floor to ceiling stone f/p, wood adorn floors, massive vaulted ceilings to the stained glass windows, 800 sq.ft. deck and balcony this 5 bedroom home with huge guest suite above 32 x 36 shop.

Property information

Shannon Babcock -President's Club 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Buy Smart. Sell Smart.
Sutton Group Showplace Realty
Cell: 604-795-1081
http://www.shannonbabcock.com

Kawkawa Lake, Hope  -  The other at 65582 MOUNTAIN ASH DRIVE has been sold.

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Hope, Vancouver Coast & Mountains  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at L-420 Rupert Street on February 4 from 11:15 AM to 1:15 PM.

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Calling All Retirees! 

Wow, $163,900 gets you this END UNIT Rancher style spotless 90's townhome! In well regarded small 55+ complex, this priced to get you moving attractive home, with no stairs, is a great downsizing option, perfect for a retiree.

Pleasing exterior, brick accents, private hedged large yard, extra storage, patio and full mountain views. Airy layout, elegant sky lit living and dining area with vaulted ceilings. Covered front plus extra side parking. 5 appls., heated crawl, flex room and big utility room. Low monthly fee of $100 inclds lawn care. Walk everywhere, close to town centre, golf and parks.

Don't Delay!

Call Shannon Today for more details!
Cell: 604-795-1081  connecting@uniserve.com

COME DISCOVER HOPE BC! Just over 150 kms (90 minute drive) from Vancouver or 3 hours from Seattle, there is plenty to do and see in the area. Hope is a vibrant town on the banks of the mighty Fraser River with a population of approx. 7,000. With the sprawling beauty of the Fraser Valley on the westerly way to the Pacific coast and forested mountains surrounding the town, visitors and residents experience beauty in every season.

Hope offers some of British Columbia's most diverse scenery. Hiking, fishing and flight seeing are as much a part of Hope's natural heritage as are its iconic chainsaw carvings that reference its logging history, festivals that celebrate its early trading days and gold rush pioneers. There’s an amazing network of parks, rivers and trails that preserves its history and wildlife.

Kawkawa Lake, Hope  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 22061 LAKE COUNTRY DRIVE (Lot 16) on February 4th Saturday from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

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LAKE COUNTRY ESTATES  Open House in Kawkawa Lake on Saturday FEB 4th!! Step out of the Ordinary into this 'Brand New Cut Above' Spacious Split level home  -or BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME...ONLY 2 LOTS LEFT Corner Locations  $129,900 +hst

Step out of the Ordinary into this 'Brand New Cut Above' Spacious Split level home with full walk-out basement absolutely brimming with exquisite detailing. Situated in desirable Lake Country Estates just ½ block to beach and boat launch. Corner lot with A+ curb appeal, commanding mountain views, awesome cedar deck, 45 ft long driveway & side parking for the largest of RV's.

From the Soaring covered entry, custom quality finishings and superior craftsmanship to the abundance of windows and 9' ceilings on both floors, hardwood, extensive tile, stone & woodwork this one of kind home is DRESSED TO IMPRESS! Airy flexible layout offers Gourmet Kitchen,3 bedrooms + den on main with flex room down. Picturesque setting

Call Shannon Today for more details!
Cell: 604-795-1081  connecting@uniserve.com

COME DISCOVER HOPE BC! Just over 150 kms (90 minute drive) from Vancouver or 3 hours from Seattle, there is plenty to do and see in the area. Hope is a vibrant town on the banks of the mighty Fraser River with a population of approx. 7,000. With the sprawling beauty of the Fraser Valley on the westerly way to the Pacific coast and forested mountains surrounding the town, visitors and residents experience beauty in every season.

Hope offers some of British Columbia's most diverse scenery. Hiking, fishing and flight seeing are as much a part of Hope's natural heritage as are its iconic chainsaw carvings that reference its logging history, festivals that celebrate its early trading days and gold rush pioneers. There’s an amazing network of parks, rivers and trails that preserves its history and wildlife.

Agassiz, Vancouver Coast & Mountains  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 2061 Dunn Place on February 4 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

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NOT A MISPRINT!! $277,700 GETS YOU THIS 5 BEDROOM 3 FULL BATH 2 LEVEL HOME WITH DOUBLE GARAGE QUALITY BUILT IN 2003!   MLS# H1200083

Affordable starter or Investment!

We have here an attractive 5 bedroom, 3 full bath, 2 level (2003) home situated at the end of small cul-de-sac short stroll to Agassiz's charming town center and rec facility plus just 7 minutes to Harrison Hot Springs!

Offers tons of counter space, cupboards and pantry in the maple kitchen, bright dining area, living room with gas f/p plus 2 bedrooms, rec room with sep. entrance in basement would make a great in-law suite or teens/media room.

Ample parking, there's a double garage, extra storage area + full length driveway. Fenced yard has spacious patio & deck with mountain views.

5 appliances + new designer blinds.

Hard to Beat Value...Call Shannon Today!
Shannon Babcock
Buy Smart. Sell Smart.
connectingu@uniserve.com
Cell: 604-795-1081
Sutton Group Showplace Realty

Yarrow, Chilliwack  -  Announcing a price reduction on 43275 Lumsden Rd, a 2,038 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story split "Awesome Acreage in Yarrow!". Now MLS® $739,000 - .

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Incredible Yarrow location! Picturesque country setting, with miles of riding trails right from your doorstep and *** nearby for great river fishing.

Horse friendly property offers 300' of frontage, detached shop, 70 x 180 outdoor arena plenty of gravel based paddocks, large fields, 2nd driveway allows for easy access and turn around to the well equipped 4 stall barn with hay loft. 5 acres currently used for hay (equipment negotiable), fertile land with upgraded drainage would also be perfect for blueberries.

The solid well maintained home has extensive tile and hardwood, huge country kitchen, newer windows and double doors off dining room lead to the entertainment sized deck that overlooks the lovely landscape/gardens.

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR!

SHANNON BABCOCK
LANDMARK REALTY CHWK;
1-877-858-2408 or Cell: 604-795-1081

Sardis Park, Sardis  -  The ranch at 21-45752 Stevenson Road has been sold.

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Sardis Park, Sardis  -  #21-45752 Stevenson Road has been sold.

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Our goal is to always exceed our client’s expectations!

We love what we do and take great personal satisfaction from helping our clients achieve their real estate goals. We appreciate the importance of the decision to buy or sell a home and handle each client and sale with genuine concern and professionalism.

You can count on us for prompt reliable honest service and a smooth transaction from start to finish.

 If we can be of any assistance to you now or in the future, please give us a call. We'd be happy to discuss promoting your home and help you explore buying options.

Put our hard work ethic, results driven attitude, full marketing program and boundless energy to work for you!

 We have a proven track record in sales and service, but it’s not what we say to potential clients that counts, its what other say!

CHECK OUT OUR TESTIMONIALS at www.dianelothian.com and www.shannonbabcock.com

We're At Your Service! Buy Smart. Sell Smart.

Shannon Babcock -Sales Associate
Chilliwack & District -President Club Award  2008, 2009, 2010. 2011
(Presented to top 25% of all board realtors in sales)
Landmark 5 Star Award
Tf: 1-877-858-2408 or Cell: 604-795-1081

Sardis West Vedder Road, Sardis  -  Announcing a price reduction on #44 - 7610 Evans Rd, a 924 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm manufactured home "Upgraded & Perfectly Located". Now MLS® $109,000 - MOVE IN READY!.

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CALL TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS!

SHANNON BABCOCK
LANDMARK REALTY CHWK.
Cell: 604-795-1081 connecitngu@uniserve.com

Sardis West Vedder Road, Sardis  -  Announcing a price reduction on #45 - 7610 Evans Rd, a 924 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm manufactured home "True Rancher Feeling! 2x6 constr.". Now MLS® $112,000 - .

Property information

CALL TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS

SHANON BABCOCK
LANDMARK REALTY CHWK.
CELL: 604-795-1081

connectingu@uniserve.com

Real Estate Council of British Columiba

“Stigmatized” Properties

Sometimes when dealing in real estate the onus will be on you, the client, to ask questions regarding issues of specific importance to you and your family, rather than relying on a real estate licensee to try to anticipate all of your needs.

Concerns Not Physical, Structural, or Obvious

When selecting a property to buy, most often the physical appearance of a property and the location will be obvious. If, as a potential buyer, you are concerned about the less obvious structural and mechanical aspects of a property, you can have a property inspection done. However, consumers may have other areas of concern that would cause them to avoid a property. Certain events may cause a property to be described as a “stigmatized property”, or a “psychologically impacted property”. These terms are sometimes applied to a property that has had some circumstance occur in or near it, but which does not specifically affect the appearance or function of the property itself.

Examples of these in a residential context might include:

1. a sexual offender is reported to live in the neighbourhood

2. a former resident was suspected of being an organized crime gang member

3. a death occurred in the property

4. the property was robbed or vandalised

5. there are reports that the property is haunted

Significance Varies Individually

The significance of these or any other occurrence may be affected by a person’s beliefs, values and perceptions, ethnic background, religion, gender, age and other individual concerns. Therefore, to determine with any certainty all the possible circumstances that might cause a property to be considered “stigmatized” is daunting if not impossible. Further, in the event of a lawsuit resulting from an undisclosed stigma, the buyer would have to prove what harmful effect the stigma had because these issues are often personal ones that do not affect the appearance, function or use of the property.

Disclosure

While, under the doctrine of caveat emptor, buyers are ultimately responsible to satisfy themselves that the property they are acquiring is suitable for their purposes, many buyers look to the seller to provide them with information about the property. In British Columbia, it is important for consumers to know that while sellers and licensees representing sellers are required by law to disclose material latent defects affecting a property they are not required by law to disclose the existence of possible stigmas that might be of concern to specific buyers. Therefore, British Columbia buyers, who are concerned about certain possible stigmas in regard to a property, are responsible to conduct their own investigation which could include inquiries of licensees who represent them or direct inquiries of the seller or licensees representing the seller.

When asked by their client, a buyer’s agent must make the appropriate inquiries.

When asked about the possible existence of stigmas that might affect the property the seller, or licensees representing the seller, may:

a) answer the question directly; or

b) decline to answer the question and advise the buyer to conduct their own investigation.

Sellers and their licensees who choose to answer such questions are expected to use reasonable skill and care to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided to buyers.

A refusal by the seller to answer questions may raise a warning flag for a prospective buyer who may then wish to find the answers through their own independent research.

An exception to the foregoing may occur where the seller and buyer have consented to the brokerage acting as a limited dual agent. In that circumstance, where the buyer has made their concern about a stigma known to the brokerage through the licensee representing the buyer and the brokerage, through the licensee representing the seller, is aware of the existence of such a stigma the brokerage, as a limited dual agent, has a duty to disclose that information to the buyer. Where the brokerage does not have knowledge of the existence of the stigma and an inquiry is made by the buyer the seller may, as with other inquiries, choose to:

(i) answer the question directly; or

(ii) decline to answer the question and advise the buyer to conduct there own investigation.

Stigmas Are Difficult to Define

The following may help to show the difficulty in defining a stigma. Think about your response to this question:

Would it matter to you if a death had occurred in a property you were interested in buying?

Some would say “Yes, absolutely!” However, consider the following situations:

1. Would you find a death caused by a violent act or suicide unacceptable?

2. What if the family brought an elderly grandmother home to die in the comfort of her family and familiar surroundings?

3. Suppose it were a crib death of a newborn?

4. What if you learned the owner’s pet had recently died in the home? Would you feel differently if the death was natural or if poison was suspected?

5. Would you be concerned if a person had been killed by a car on the street in front of the house?

Would you be as concerned by a death that occurred 50 years ago as you would with a recent one? These examples illustrate how difficult it is to clearly define what a “stigmatized” property might be. What one person might find unacceptable may be of little or no importance to another.

Treading Carefully

It is impossible to anticipate all the areas of sensitivity individuals may have. While the feelings and concerns of individual buyers are understandable, it's also easy to see that sellers might be unfairly hurt by a requirement to disclose such things. For instance, if the law required that all deaths in properties must be disclosed, regardless of how and when they occurred, the act of bringing a grandmother home to die may cause the owners to lose property value.
It may seem unfair to place the onus on the buyer to make such inquiries about a property they are interested in. On the other hand, would it be fair to require a home owner to label their property as stigmatized without a clear understanding of what the term means, or when it means different things to different people? Is it fair to hold a licensee representing a seller responsible if an event was not disclosed to the buyer, even when the licensee was not advised by the buyer that such events are important to them?

Protect Yourself

You can take steps to avoid buying a property you might consider to be stigmatized by discussing your individual concerns with the licensee who represents you and instructing that licensee to ask specific questions about the property.
For example, suppose a family has had a tragic experience wherein their daughter was sexually assaulted while she was alone at their home. She is no longer comfortable in that home and this is their reason for moving. If she was to learn their new house had a similar event occur in it, she would be understandably upset.

To avoid this, the buyers should instruct the licensee who represents them to make inquiries on their behalf. This can be done professionally, while maintaining a level of privacy. For instance, the buyer’s representative could ask the seller and the seller’s representative, “Have there been any violent crimes committed in the property?”

Duty to Disclose

As noted earlier, sellers, may refuse to answer questions about such potential stigmas, or, if they do answer, would be expected to use reasonable skill and care to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information they provide. However, keep in mind a seller may have no knowledge of events that occurred before their ownership or the property may have been rented out and the seller may not know of events that occurred during the rental period. For serious concerns, consumers are advised to make inquiries of the local police service.
Sellers who are concerned that some circumstance may cause the seller’s property to be considered stigmatized will face a dilemma - do we disclose and risk harming our property value, or do we not disclose and risk the buyer learning the information later and pursuing us for damages? Prudent sellers will discuss all the variables, including their rights and obligations, with their own lawyer.

Sellers are cautioned to keep in mind that issues concerning stigmas differ from the responsibility of sellers to disclose material latent defects. A latent defect is a material defect not generally visible during a reasonable inspection, such as a serious crack in the foundation that has been covered over with paneling or improper wiring covered by drywall. Sellers and licensees who represent them must disclose all known material latent defects about a property to potential buyers.

Summary

British Columbia law does not define stigmatized properties. It also does not require sellers or licensees who represent them to disclose circumstances which some may be considered to be stigmas. Buyers are advised to carefully consider the areas of concern they have, discuss them with their licensee, and ensure the necessary inquiries are made to avoid purchasing a property they will not feel comfortable living in. Sellers should consider the consequences of disclosure compared with no disclosure and seek independent legal advice.

This article has been adapted from information published by the Real Estate Council of Alberta. It is printed with that organization’s permission.

Canadian home sales edge higher in November

http://creastats.crea.ca/natl/

OTTAWA - December 15, 2011 - According to statistics^[1] released today by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), national resale housing activity rose slightly in November 2011 from the previous month.

Highlights:

• Sales activity rose slightly (+0.5 per cent) from October to November on a seasonally adjusted basis.
• Year-to-date sales remained in line with the 10 year average, but pulled further ahead of last year’s levels.
• The number of newly listed homes was down 3.4 per cent from October to November.
• The national housing market remains balanced, but is edging closer to seller’s market territory.
• The national average price posted a 4.6 per cent year-over-year gain in November, the smallest increase since January.

Sales activity recorded through the MLS® Systems of real estate Boards and Associations in Canada edged upward by one-half of a percentage point. This marks the third straight month in which national activity was up from the previous month’s levels.

Activity rose in about 60 per cent of all local markets with a record November in the Halifax-Dartmouth region offsetting a dip in sales in Toronto.

“The Canadian housing market is proving resilient in the face of ongoing global economic and financial uncertainty, to the benefit of Canadian economic growth,” said Gary Morse, CREA’s President. “That said, some housing markets are picking up while others are holding steady or consolidating, so buyers and sellers should talk to their local REALTOR® to understand current and prospective trends in their local housing market.”

Throughout most months in 2011, actual (not seasonally adjusted) national home sales were in line with the 10-year average. November sales marked a break in that pattern, climbing seven per cent above the 10 year average and reaching the fourth highest level on record for the month.

“Toward the end of every year, there’s a natural inclination to compare how momentum for national sales activity and average price compare to the year before,” said Gregory Klump, CREA’s Chief Economist. “National sales activity picked up late last year, and November’s results suggest that a similar trend may be playing out again this year. By contrast, national average price also picked up toward the end of last year, whereas this year it has held steady after having peaked in the spring.”

“With interest rates expected to remain low for longer, the housing sector will no doubt be closely watched for signs of excess,” added Klump. “That said, current trends for resale housing and new home construction suggest that tightened mortgage regulations are working as intended and fostering economic stability in Canada.”

A total of 432,048 homes have traded hands via Canadian MLS® Systems so far this year, up 2.1 per cent from levels in the first 11 months of 2010. The year-to-date sales figure remains broadly in line (+0.7 per cent) with the average for that period from 2001 to 2010.

Compared to October, the number of newly listed homes fell 3.4 per cent in November. New listings slipped lower in more than two-thirds of Canadian housing markets, with Toronto, the Hamilton-Burlington region, and Calgary contributing most to the national decline.

The national housing market remains balanced, but is edging closer to seller’s market territory. The national sales-to-new listings ratio, a measure of market balance, stood at 55.5 per cent in November, up from 53.4 per cent in October. This marks the third month in which the national ratio has risen, and it now stands at its highest reading since the spring.

Based on a sales-to-new listings ratio of between 40 to 60 percent, just over half of local markets in Canada were balanced in November, while a third of markets qualified as sellers’ markets.

The number of months of inventory nationally stood at six months at the end of November. It has held steady at about this level since April, which is above levels posted during the first quarter. The number of months of inventory represents the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current rate of sales activity, and is another measure of the balance between housing supply and demand.

The actual (not seasonally adjusted) national average price for homes sold in November 2011 stood at $360,396. This represents a year-over-year increase of 4.6 per cent, its smallest increase since January.

¹ All figures in this release except average price are seasonally adjusted. Removing normal seasonal variations enables meaningful analysis of monthly changes and fundamental trends.

Kawkawa Lake, Hope  -  Announcing a price reduction on 66582 SUMMER RD, a 1,210 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story "COMFY COTTAGE CHARM & GREAT DESIGN APPEAL!". Now MLS® $249,900 - 20K PRICE DROP!!.

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All seasons family retreat, weekend getaway or ideal for year round living this move-in ready and updated 2 level home has the urban conveniences you seek, comfy cottage charm & great design appeal.

Soaring vaulted ceilings, tall windows, upper level overlooks living room with gas f/p, bdrm on main, 2 more up + den. delightful babbling creek & mountain views.

Huge bright kitchen has sliding doors that lead to entertainment sized patio + extensive covered area. Property is surrounded by nature at its finest, viewed from every window. Cute workshop/shed, carport, loads of parking for your guests.

Escape the hustle & bustle! Nestled amongst mature trees, backs onto acreage and only 1 block from beautiful Kawkawa Lake.

CALL SHANNON TO VIEW!

SHANNON BABCOCK
604-795-1081 connectingu@uniserve.com

Agassiz, Vancouver Coast & Mountains  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 2061 Dunn Place on January 14 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

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Affordable starter or Investment! We have here an attractive 5 bedroom, 3 full bath, 2 level home built in 2003 situated at the end of small cul-de-sac stroll to Agassiz;s charming town center.

Offers tons of counter space, cupboards and pantry in the maple kitchen, bright dining area, living room with gas f/p, master ensuite and w.i. closet. 2 bedrooms, rec room, sep. entrance in basement would make a great in-law suite or teens/media room. Ample parking, there's a double garage, extra storage area + full length driveway.

 Fenced yard with south west exposure boasts spacious patio & deck with mountain views. 5 appliances + new designer blinds. Hard to beat value!

 CALL SHANNON!

SHANNON BABCOCK
BUY SMART. SELL SMART.
CELL: 604-795-1081 connectingu@uniserve.com

• 1,325 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm ranch "LOVELY ONE LEVEL END UNIT TOWNHOME!" - MLS® $233,00

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Enjoy delightful one level living in this spotless END UNIT RANCHER STYLE townhome in popular Portage Lane.

Welcoming exterior with brick accenting, sure to please layout with sky lit tiled entrance, elegant living room with vaulted ceilings and gas f/p, open oak kitchen has pantry and huge breakfast nook, separate dining area and full ensuite off the ample sized master. Offers lots of storage, neutral colours, rounded corners, patio with awning, central a/c, 6 appliances, full crawl space, double garage and theres plenty of visitor parking right beside unit.

Come discover this small 45+ complex in quiet convenient Chilliwack location today!

CALL SHANNON TO VIEW!

SHANNON BABCOCK
Working Diligently to GET RESULTS!
LANDMARK REALTY
CELL: 604-795-1081
connectingu@uniserve.com