Even the most senior sales veterans can't recall a more dynamic housing market in Southern Alberta. It's almost surreal, with stories circulating about frantic bidding wars, unbelievably fast turnarounds and overnight profits of gargantuan proportions.

Sellers rub their their hands with glee, anticipating huge returns. Buyers, meanwhile, proceed with trepidation, worrying about being rushed into paying inflationary prices while simultaneously fearful of being left behind by seemingly out-of-control market trends.

Truth is, it's a dangerous time, with pitfalls lying in wait for the unwary buyer as well as for the uneducated vendor.

It's time to shake hands with one of Southern Alberta's most reliable and accomplished professionals, a residential real estate specialist you can count on.

Sam Corea has sold more than 1,000 homes. Now, more than ever, it's vital to have the support of an experienced real estate professional.

Meet Sam Corea, a recognized leader in Calgary real estate.

A tireless worker and trusted confidant, Corea takes each of his clients in hand and pledges to guide them through these unique and exciting - yet also challenging - times.

With more than 1,000 Calgary sales to his credit, Corea has built a spotless reputation for shrewd market assessments as well as for fair dealing. Recently, he sat down to discuss some of the problems inherent in today's high-voltage housing market.

Q: Sam, it's a bit of a jungle out there. What are some strategies today's buyers and sellers can use to protect themselves? Why don't we start with those who wish to sell their homes?

A: Yes, a bullish market like this is precisely the time you need to align yourself with an experienced real estate professional. Here's the best advice I can offer: Don't leave money on the table when you're selling. The average house price in Calgary has gone up $100,000 in the last three or four months. So the biggest thing to tune into is timing: What is the EXACT value of your house today? Now, more than ever you need a knowledgeable agent who's deep into the market and able to read the trends accurately. He'll help you make the deal that's best for you.

Q: In a hot market like this, does it make sense for sellers to try to maximize their profit by listing their home privately?

A: A novice might think so, but the answer is an emphatic no. People who sell "by owner" aren't getting the exposure they need to generate offers. Also, most of them have no idea how to properly value their homes.

Many such sellers actually price their homes based on city assessments, which is a terrible mistake. These people undersell their property, leaving as much as $60,000 on the table. When they work with a qualified professional such as myself, they achieve maximum value for their homes.

Q: You're one of the busiest sales experts in town. Do you have enough time to devote to every one of your clients?

A: Absolutely. That's what I offer that's different: Personalized service. When clients want to reach me, they're calling my cellphone, calling me directly.

My market is very specialized - I deal in Calgary's luxury market and my average sale price last year was $700,000 - but I'm certainly happy to work with customers in every price range.

Q: Why is it so important for sellers to join forces with an experienced real estate professional such as yourself?

A: We're seeing homes coming on the market today with as many as 14 offers on the property. In those situations, an inexperienced realtor tends to make serious mistakes. You need someone who's well acquainted with this unique market. I, personally, had a home last week, priced at $525,000. We had 350 people through the open house in one day and the home sold for $70,000 above the list price.

My clients were very glad they were working with someone who knows how to deal with competitive offers.

Q: How do you make the most of such a highly competitive environment?

A: I'll list a home on MLS on a Friday and make it plain that we will entertain offers on Sunday at 4 p.m. That gives prospective purchasers a day or two to view the property and evaluate its merits.

Q: What's the best way for those who are looking to buy a home to educate themselves, to prepare themselves for trading in such a vibrant market?

A: That's easy. They should work with an agent who has the kind of extensive professional background that enables him or her to spot the red flags. I've sold more than 1,000 homes and I know what I'm seeing when I take a close look at a home. I'm not a professional home inspector, but I do know what to look for that could develop into a problem down the road.

For more information, please visit: www.samsluxuryhomes.com. Then call Sam Corea today at 403.870.8811.