DIY last Will and testament, is it a good idea?
Irina Bartnik, Notary • January 14, 2020
It’s empowering to do something yourself. There is a satisfying sense of accomplishment that comes with the successful completion of a project. I also love cutting costs by doing things on my own, and often learn new skills in the process.
But even an avid DIY fan like me knows that there are some things that I simply can’t do by myself. I also know the value of working with a professional.
Some of them are obvious. Like open-heart surgery or building an aircraft.
But others aren’t so straightforward, like legal documents. Even as an experienced BC Notary, I know there are certain legal documents that I can’t prepare on my own. I accept that and defer to other experts when I need these documents.
This is why I’m concerned about a growing trend: people wanting to DIY their Wills (often using the internet as their only source of information).
Don’t get me wrong, I understand the appeal: cutting costs, avoiding the hassle of having to see a professional, the satisfaction of learning a new skill. These reasons are valid, but trust me when I say, it’s just not worth it.
In the best of cases, DIY Wills are often ineffective, and seriously hinder the chances that your wishes are followed.
In the worst of cases, they are deemed invalid by the courts and leave your loved ones scrambling to figure out what to do with your estate.
Please contact my office if you need to have a Will prepared. You will be happy you did!
Irina Bartnik Notary Public
#105 6758 188th Street
Surrey, BC (Clayton Area)
V4N-6K2
TEL (604) 575-7494
FAX (604)-579-0259
www.ibnotary.com
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In this episode of Andy Talks Real Estate, I break down the November Fraser Valley real estate market and explain what the numbers actually mean if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home. This market has slowed as we head into the holiday season. Inventory is contracting. Sales are down. Prices have softened after several months of gradual decline. And that shift is creating very different opportunities depending on which side of the market you’re on. For Buyers: Buyers are firmly in control right now. You have more choice, more time, and the ability to negotiate properly. Conditions are back Home inspections matter Financing protection matters Time to make informed decisions Based on what I’m seeing, this buyer-friendly environment is likely to carry into early 2026. For Sellers This is not a market where you can rely on last year’s pricing or momentum. Accurate pricing is critical Professional preparation matters Strong marketing makes the difference Strategy beats waiting Homes that are positioned correctly are selling. Homes that miss the mark are sitting. Market Context The data comes directly from the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, including: Sales activity New listings Months of inventory Housing Price Index trends Langley-specific market shifts The market feels more like a buyer’s market than a balanced one when you’re out touring homes. Looking Ahead There are early signs of pent-up demand, particularly among buyers with insured mortgage pre-approvals. January and February may stay quieter Activity is likely to build into late winter and spring Preparation is the advantage Have a plan. Know your options. Move when the timing is right for you.
Some days you’re polished. Some days you’re just… memorable. Check out LAPS for adoptables 😀
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