Real Estate Amigo

Up to a 30% reduction on post secondary tuition in Ontario

2012-03-02T06:18:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone, as you know more money means more real estate. Here is something that will help you keep a little bit more in your pocket. For those of you with post secondary age children this is for your. The government has introduced up to a 30% reduction on post secondary education. My account forwarded this to me the other day....

Dear friends:

Please read the information below and pass it on to your friends, if necessary.

Ontario government announces 30% Tuition Grant for undergrads.

The application deadline for the semester started January 2012 is March 31, 2012.

Recently , the Ontario government announced a tuition grant for full-time undergraduate students at Ontario's universities and colleges, whose family income is $160,000 or less. The grant is available to a student who:

• is a full-time student at a public college or university in Ontario,

• is registered in a program applied directly from high school,

• is a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident or a protected person residing in Ontario

• is a high school graduate within the past 4 years

In order to qualify, the 2010 combined income of the parents of the student must be $160,000 or less.

Students receiving OSAP will automatically be considered for the grant. Students not receiving OSAP need to apply for the grant before March 31 to be eligible for the Winter 2012 semester payment.

Full details about the new tuition grant program

Best regards

Surendra

10 Donlevy Cres, Whitby ON L1R 0C2, Canada - Virtual Tour

2012-02-23T06:53:00.000-08:00

10 Donlevy Cres, Whitby ON L1R 0C2, Canada - Virtual Tour

Just sold with home in multiple offers.

Over 3800 sqft of living space backing onto a large park

2012-02-13T05:44:00.000-08:00

Professionally finished basement with large oversized windows. Luxury hardwood floors on the main level. Features a large bright kitchen with a walkout to a large 35 foot deck. Work from home on your main floor office.

Only $249,900 for a 4 bedroom freehold townhouse in Pickering

2012-02-06T21:34:00.000-08:00

Wow 4 Bedroom Under $250,000, With No Condo Fees. Run! Close To Everything; Shopping, 401 & Public Transit. New Laminate Flooring In Living/Dining Room. New Ceramic Floor Entrance. Great Private Backyard With Its Own Sundeck. Large Family Size Kitchen. The Size Of This Home Will Impress You.

Great 4 bedroom home in North Whitby

2012-02-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

Shows Better Than New.New Flooring,New Carpets,Professionally Painted Thru-Out,New Ceramic Backsplash.4 Great Sized Bedrooms.Master Bedroom With 2 Walk-In Closets And A Spa Like Bathroom Retreat With Oval Tub & Separate Shower.Elegant Upgraded Stone Front With Front Porch.Features A Beautiful Kitchen With Centre Island,Breakfast Bar That Is Open To The Great Room With A Cozy Gas Fireplace. More pictures and details.

The interest rates are going up today! No more 2.99%

2012-02-06T21:21:00.000-08:00

Thinking of buying in the next couple of months, it looks like the 2.99% fixed rate mortgages will be cancelled. RBC is starting today and I am sure most banks will follow. Call me today to see if we can still hold it.

Country Home in Baldwin Street North

2011-11-24T08:44:00.000-08:00

8970 Baldwin Street north in Whitby of Hamlet of Ashburn just minutes north of Brooklin is now only $279,900. Call for details. 3 bedrooms 50 x 200 foot lot. Large country kitchen. So much character for such a great price.

Reveiw your tenant applications carefully.

2011-11-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

It is a very important to put the new tenant applicant's name through google to see what shows up. It will sometimes illustrate some very important facts and history that might be a factor in determining whether you really want them as a tenant. It is also very important to ask for ID before you hand over the keys to make sure that you investigated the correct person.

This weeks ad in the Compra y Venta Spanish News Paper

2011-11-15T19:18:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Century Home in Brooklin for only $299,900

2011-11-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

Just a few minutes north of downtown Brooklin. This wonderful century home features 3 large bedrooms and a huge country kithchen. Visit http://www.theamigo.ca/ for more details.

November Real Estate Market Update for Toronto and GTA

2011-11-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

The real estate market continues very strong, most areas continue to see a very steady increase. The trends so far are that the market will continue to climb and the interest rates will remain very low.

On the day to day level, I have been seeing lots of people refinancing or trying to refinance. Remember you can always call us to see if we can assist or we can give you our opinion. I have seen many people get into new finance options that they cannot keep up with, so be careful. Usually properties are always affordable, but you always have to have something set aside for a rainy day or just a minor repair. This can be done with either savings or a good line of credit. Be prepared before you need it, when you really need some financial assistance you will notice that it is very difficult if you are already behind or not working.

I have also been working with lots of people getting involved in investing in real estate, it is a growing trend. I have joined a couple real estate investing networks for this. I am might also hold a small seminar in January or February illustrating the benefits. It does have some risks but done properly it really pays off, sometimes a bit slower than expected but over the long run it is great. It is like someone else paying off your RRSP's.

We are here to answer all your real estate questions and we really appreciate your referrals of your friends and family. We work all over Toronto and surrounding GTA. We can assist you in selling or buying a properties, investment real estate, commercial or businesses.

“You AMIGOS in Real Estate”

Great New Price $59,900

2011-10-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Be your own boss. In your pocket over $60,000 a year.

Live by the Lake in Ajax for only $1350 / month

2011-10-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

2 bedrooms and 2 bathooms. Balcony, tennis courts, indoor pool and gym. Just off the Rotary Park near biking and hiking trails.

Rent by the Lake in Ajax $1350 / month

2011-10-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

2 bedrooms and 2 bathooms. Balcony, tennis courts, indoor pool and gym. Just off the Rotary Park near biking and hiking trails.

Be Your Own Boss for only $79,900

2011-10-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

For sale a 10 year old Dry Cleaning business in the beautiful town of Brooklin, North Whitby.

Only $1350 a month + utilities

2011-10-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Great rental in Oshawa, near the Oshawa Town Centre and the Whitby border. Finished basement and fenced in backyard.

4 bedroom Freehold house for only $249,900

2011-07-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

Great Pickeirng location, you don't need a car. Walk to mall, bus or Go. Located close 401 exit. Features a finished basement apartment. Large kitchen. 2 1/2 bathrooms. Won't last call today.

4 bedrooms for only $254,900

2011-06-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Minutes to 401, 5 minutes to Scarborough. Walk to shopping malls, recreation centres and public transit. Finished basement with spare bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. No condo fees, carries for less than rent.

Large 4 bedroom home in Courtice for only $305,000

2011-06-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Better price than the builders. Features a walkout basement and a great family nieghbourhood.

Beautiful 2 bedroom condo in Downtown Toronto for only $385,000

2011-06-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

Beautifully kept suite on Carr Street, near Bathurst and Queen. This home features a load of upgrades, 2 large bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, parking and a huge oversized terrance. Run this one won't last.

Beautiful Whitby home for only $289,900

2011-06-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Upgrades galore! Renovated kithchen, pattern cement walkway, deck, finished basement. Features included main floor laundry room and a full bathroom in the master bedroom. 3 bedroom home in Whitby, Durham Region Ontario. Great price for this home.

Only $329,900 must sell quickly before it goes power of sale

2011-05-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Large 4 bedroom home located on Forest Grove Drive in Whitby. Features a finished basement and a wonderful backyard with no nieghbours on the back. One of the best prices in the area. This home must sell quickly, please call if there is any interest.

Rent To Own - What should you Do?

2011-05-27T13:24:00.001-07:00

Many people are always asking me about Rent to own, both from the side of the investor and from the side of the renter or future house owner.

As an investor there is lots of money to be made, the returns are incredible. It is a way to make really good money and at the same time avoid some of the tenant laws. The law is still a bit unclear whether the people living in the house are considered tenants.

As a renter, is seems like a quick way to get to the house that you would like, when you think you don’t qualify for the financing or if you don’t have all of the down payment. Sometimes it is just a matter of finding the right realtor or mortgage broker. If you are thinking of becoming a renter in a rent to own situation, there are a few points to keep in mind:

- I caution people that you have to do your research on the person or company that you are renting or purchasing from. You want to make sure that they will be able to hold on to the house while you build equity. If they end up losing the house are you considered only a tenant.

- You have to make sure that you will be able to repair your credit, obtain the downpayment or have employment to qualify for the mortgage in the time frame agreed to. Or you will lose the money that you have built up or given.

- You have to calculate the cost of getting into a rent to own versus just waiting a bit longer to see if you will qualify under normal conditions.

- You need to be sure that this is the house that you would like to purchase in a couple of years.

- You need to make sure that the house will be worth more when you take over it. What will happen if it is worth less, will the bank give you a mortgage?

These are just some things to consider, when looking into getting a rent to own property.

If you are thinking of purchasing properties are investments for rent to own, or if you think this might be the only way to get your own home, call us Today at 416-225-2290, we will guide you to make the right decision for you and your family.

Own a Business in the Town of Brooklin Ontario, North Whtiby

2011-05-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

Over 10 years in Business. This profitable dry cleaner business can be yours for only $89,900. Email me at cvergara@sutton.com for more details or visit my web site www.theAmigo.ca .

Toronto, Ajax, Pickering, Markham, Whitby, Oshawa, Missisauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Real Estate Board Market update for May 2011

2011-05-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

The April market continued to be very strong because of the low interest rates, making it a great time to purchase or sell. We saw multiple offers on many homes. Lots of different areas saw a nice increase in prices. Also it is a great time to refinance, to pay off those credit cards or just to get a lower monthly payment.

Hear is what the Toronto Real Estate Board is stating about the market:

Tight Market Results in Strong Price Growth in April

May 4, 2011 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 9,041 existing home sales through the TorontoMLS® system in April 2011. This result was down 17 per cent compared April 2010 when sales spiked to a new record of 10,898. While off last year's record result, April 2011 sales were in line with the average April sales level reported over the previous five years.

"Existing home sales have been strong from a historic perspective through the first four months of 2011. Expect the pace of sales to remain robust through the spring, as the economy expands and home buyers continue to benefit from affordable home ownership opportunities," said Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) President Bill Johnston.

Market conditions tightened markedly over the last year. April 2011 sales accounted for 62 per cent of new listings during the month – up substantially from 53 per cent in April 2010. Tighter conditions resulted in the average April selling price growing by nine per cent annually to $477,407.

"The number of listings has been below expectations so far this year. Increased competition between home buyers has led to an accelerating annual rate of price growth," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis. "The strong price growth experienced in April should result in more listings and more balanced market conditions."

Median Price

In April, the median price was $402,000, from the $373,000 recorded during April of 2010.

4 bedrooms with a great inground pool for only $319,900

2011-05-17T13:06:00.000-07:00

For more details visit: http://www.theamigo.ca/

Cristian Vergara Real Estate Broker Market Update for March 2010

2011-05-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Scarborough Selling Fast

2011-04-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

Amanada Crescent in Scarborough. Just sold for over almost 7% over asking, the market is very hot because there is a shortage of homes on the Toronto real estate market. This is a great time to sell because the rates are still very low. This is a great time to sell out move into Durham Region where homes are still much cheaper.

Power of Sales & Foreclosure, when it happens to you!

2011-04-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

I get many calls from people looking for great deals on power of sales and foreclosures. As you know in life when one looses the other gains. Well this article addresses the other side of the story. As many of you know I am called for positive occasions and also for negative occasions. There are many changes in life that sometimes will not allow us to continue to pay all our financial commitments.

No matter what the situation you should take control and face the bank and financial institution. The most important thing is to take action quickly before it is too late. If you take quick actions, the bank is sometimes willing to renegotiate the terms of the mortgage, CHMC or Genworth sometimes have programs to assist, and I have even seen the banks allow you to skip a couple of payments.

Many times you have equity in the property; this can disappear quickly when you stop paying. The best thing to do is to put the house on the market and take out your equity. Even if you break even, you are still better off because the house did not go power of sale, meaning that you did not end up with of a record of non payment. Unlike a bankruptcy, I have seen where the bank that went power of sale and CHMC, have not easily forgiven the person that did not pay. This means that years down the road it would be very difficult to purchase another home with less than 20% down or to get financing through that bank or finance institution.

If things seem to be that you cannot easily sell, I have also seen some financial institutions allow a short sale, meaning that they have reduced some of the penalties and interest, in order to allow for the house to sell.

There are many steps and strategies that you can do minimize your losses and that of the bank. The main thing is to be aware of the process, and keep an eye on how much time you have left. Just as a reminder, if they mention that they are sending it to their legal department, this means that you will now be charged legal fees and that there is normally no more negotiating, just pay the full arrears.

No matter what the situation might be, give me a call and I can assist you.

Toronto Durham Peel York real estate market update for April 2011

2011-04-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

The market is very active, but not all areas have been the same, it looks like each area is moving at its own pace. The interest rates did go up, just a couple of days ago, putting the fixed rate at or above 4% on a 5 year fixed rate. The variable for now has stayed the same. We are seeing the prices go up in most areas, seeing the 3% increase, as expected and more in some areas. It has not seemed that the elimination of the 35 year CHMC mortgage has had much affect on the market. The rates continue to be at an all time low, making it a great time to purchase, sell or invest in real estate. If you have any questions or have friends and family that are looking for assistance from a professional realtor, don't hesitate to give them my direct line at 416-225-2290, I am always very happy to assist your friends and family. Also if you, your friends or family, are looking for a new mortgage, renewal or refinance, don’t hesitate to call so that I can pass along my discounts and advice.

Here is the complete Toronto Real Estate Market Report for the month ending March 2011:

Market Statistics

Market Watch

Second Best March on Record

April 5, 2011 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 9,262 transactions through the TorontoMLS® system in March 2011, representing the second best March result on record. The number of transactions was 11 per cent lower than the record result reported in March 2010.

"The strong home sales reported in March and throughout the first quarter of 2011 have been based on a solid affordability picture and improving economic conditions in the GTA and country-wide," said Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) President Bill Johnston.

The average selling price for March 2011 was up five per cent year-over-year to $456,147. The strongest average annual price growth was reported for condominium apartments and semi-detached houses, at approximately seven per cent for both home types.

"Market conditions were tighter in March compared to last year. With more competition between buyers, we have seen a strong but sustainable rate of price growth," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Median Price

In March, the median price was $385,000, from the $370,000 recorded during March of 2010.

For more information visit: http://www.theamigo.ca/ "Your AMIGO in Real Estate"

Great Investment in Ajax, house just like a duplex, great tenant

2011-03-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

This Beautiful 3 bedroom bungalow is renovated top to bottom, with a self contained legal 1 bedroom basement apartment. Tenant upstairs pays $1350 a month , Would like to stay for at least 4 yrs (AAA tenant). Basement Apartment. is vacant but rents for $850-$925 a month. (Basement looks like a brand new Condo). Purchase price is $275,000 with 5% down carries for around $1800 (includes. Mortgage, insurance, Taxes, and $300 utilities.) also has coin operated washer and dryer, income not included here.

Rent it out whole house and get a $400 a month positive cash flow or live downstairs for only $ 450 a month .

** All numbers are estimates only **

1 Bedroom Basement Apartment for Rent

2011-03-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

Great all inclusive, with its own laundry room for only $700 a month. It includes all utilities and full separate entrance. Located in Whitby, close to Dundas. Available Immediately.

Real Estate Market Update for Toronto and Surrounding areas

2011-03-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

The prices continue to grow and likely for the rest of the year. In most areas it seems to be a seller's market, with a slim supply of properties. The interest rates continue to be at an all time low. All forecast now indicate that interest rates will continue with no upward movement at least till the fall, due to the current world issues. The 35 year amortized mortgages have now been eliminated by most banks, it did cause a bit of a market jump, but now it seems that it is back to a regular pace. Most people will find that the 30 year mortgage does very little difference from the 35 year mortgage. It is great time to purchase or sell your properties, many opportunities exist. Call me for more details.

35 Year CHMC approved mortgage is OVER

2011-03-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

As March 18 comes along the 35 year amortization mortgage is now over. Will the market slow down, will be people stop buying? Probably NOT, it will probably continue to be a strong spring real estate market. Call me to review all of your financing options.

Beautiful 2 bedroom bungalow

2011-02-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Spotless, better than new. 9 foot ceilings, large eat in kitchen and a large family room with a cozy fireplace. Just a few blocks to downtown Brooklin, where you can stroll through this shops and cafes. Minutes to the new 407 exits, close to shopping and parks. Downtown Toronto in less than an hour.

TREB: Some home improvements will pay off big - Yourhome.ca

2011-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

TREB: Some home improvements will pay off big - Yourhome.ca

January Toronto Real Estate Market was Strong

2011-02-15T08:12:00.001-08:00

Market Watch

Good Start to 2011

February 4, 2011 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 4,337 transactions through the TorontoMLS® system in January 2011. This result was 13 per cent lower than the record result reported in January 2010.

"While off the record pace experienced a year ago, the GTA resale market has started the year on a solid footing. Home buyers in Toronto and surrounding areas continue to benefit from a diversity of housing types for sale at many different price points," said TREB President Bill Johnston.

The average selling price for January 2011 sales was $427,037, representing an increase of over four per cent compared to the average of $409,058 reported in January 2010.

"The average selling price is expected to grow at a moderate pace in 2011. Growth rates in the three to five per cent range will be sustainable from an affordability perspective," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Median Price
In January, the median price was $360,000, from the $350,000 recorded during January of 2010.

Hot Market

2011-02-10T10:01:00.001-08:00

SELL NOW! If you are thinking of selling your property this year, there have been many changes this year, including
increases to the interest rates & the elimination of the 35 year mortgage, that are causing the real estate market to heat up. You can NOW get top dollar for your home, call me today for details.

Beware of purchasing in the US

2011-02-10T07:50:00.001-08:00

I have seeen lots of companies promoting purchasing properties in the US, be careful. I have seen some statistics showing that the US will have another real estate drop. Before purchasing in the US make sure that you understand the tax laws and that you understand what factors will affect the real estate market in the future, such as unemployment.

Mortgage Rates have started to climb up

2011-02-08T14:53:00.001-08:00

If you are thinking of purchasing soon, now is the time to get pre-approved and hold the rate. The rates have started to climb today and will continue to climb.

Your Credit is important to your future

2011-02-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

Always keep in mind that maintaining a good credit score with active credit will insure that you get the best available rates from your lender when you are applying for a mortgage. For tips / report on improving your credit score or on re-establishing your credit visit my web site www.theamigo.ca

Landlords in Ontario can increase the rent as much as they like!

2011-02-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

If you unit (house, condo, basement apartment etc.) was built and occupied after June 18, 1998, it would mean that you are except from the provincial guideline, which for 2011 is 0.7 % percent. Most people don't know this, therefore you be end up at the tribunal proving your point. The information is available on line at the ministry's web site, but also review with the ministry to make sure that your unit falls in this category.

Ontario Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

Rules relating to rent

(2) Sections 104, 111, 112, 120, 121, 122, 126 to 133, 165 and 167 do not apply with respect to a rental unit if,

a) it was not occupied for any purpose before June 17, 1998

(b) it is a rental unit no part of which has been previously rented since July 29, 1975; or

(c) no part of the building, mobile home park or land lease community was occupied for residential purposes before November 1, 1991. 2006, c. 17, s. 6 (2).
......
Guideline increase

120. (1) No landlord may increase the rent charged to a tenant, or to an assignee under section 95, during the term of their tenancy by more than the guideline, except in accordance with section 126 or 127 or an agreement under section 121 or 123. 2006, c. 17, s. 120 (1).

Guideline

(2) The guideline for a calendar year is the percentage change from year to year in the Consumer Price Index for Ontario for prices of goods and services as reported monthly by Statistics Canada, averaged over the 12-month period that ends at the end of May of the previous calendar year, rounded to the first decimal point. 2006, c. 17, s. 120 (2).

Publication of guideline

(3) The Minister shall determine the guideline for each year in accordance with subsection (2) and shall have the guideline published in The Ontario Gazette not later than August 31 of the preceding year. 2006, c. 17, s. 120 (3).

Real Estate Market is Heating UP

2011-01-31T14:08:00.000-08:00

WOW, I have been working in and around Toronto over the last couple of days and the market is really heating up in certain areas. Everything is multiple offers. The spring market has started early this year. The reason behind this is the recent changes with CHMC, elminating the 35 year mortgages, by March 18,2011. If you are thinking of selling your property this year, this might be the perfect time to do it.

No pressure for Rate Hike

2011-01-27T12:47:00.001-08:00

Loonie falls on tame inflation report
The Canadian dollar fell Tuesday on the heels of a soft inflation report that suggests the central bank will be in no rush to hike interest rates.
As per Toronto Star Report

Sell your house before is goes Power of Sale

2011-01-27T11:38:00.000-08:00

Can't Pay Your Mortgage, Falling behind! The bank is calling you!

Call me immediately, Let me tell you what your options are, you normally have many. I can sell you property of top dollar immediatly and we also have Cash Buyers standing by, this will save you credit and allow you to still purchase a home in a future through CHMC.

New tool for understanding mortgages and other finance issues

2011-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has specifically designed a new "Mortgage Toolkit" for the Ontario Real Estate Association to be shared with potential hombuyers, it is www.moneytools.ca

Home Energy Retrofit Grants – Deadlines for Eligibility

2011-01-24T17:28:00.001-08:00

January 24, 2011 -- The federal and provincial governments provide grants to homeowners who undertake renovations that improve the energy efficiency of their homes. These programs are coming to a close as of March 31, 2011. See deadlines for eligibility below.

Details

Before undertaking any renovations, homeowners must first have an energy audit of their home performed by a licensed service organization (list of auditors provided at government web site address provided below). The evaluation report provides customized recommendations for renovations to improve the energy efficiency of the home. Once the homeowner has completed the renovations, a second audit must be undertaken within 18 months of the first one to determine the change in the home’s energy efficiency.

Deadlines for eligibility: Home energy retrofit grants are provided by both the federal and provincial governments. Both programs are ending as of March 31, 2011. To be eligible for federal grants, homeowners must have booked a pre-retrofit audit BEFORE March 31, 2010 and have the post-retrofit audit completed by March 31, 2011, or within 18 months of the date of the pre-retrofit evaluation (whichever comes first). Homeowners who booked a pre-retrofit audit AFTER March 31, 2010 can only access grants from the provincial government, but must also complete their post-retrofit audit completed by March 31, 2011.

For more information visit:
http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/conservation/ohesp2/
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/grants.cfm?attr=0

Only $159,900

2011-01-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

Wow a renovated 3 bedroom house with a finished basement.

CHMC Changes what will they mean to most?

2011-01-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

What will all this mean? It will mean that you will probably find it a little more difficult to qualify for a mortgage, your payments will be a little higher because of the shorter amortization and it will be much tougher to get a large secured (cheaper rates) line of cerdit against your current property. But the rates are still low, so the market will continue strong....

The Harper Government Takes Prudent Action to Support the Long-Term Stability of Canada's Housing Market

2011-01-17T07:15:00.000-08:00

The Harper Government Takes Prudent Action to Support the Long-Term Stability of Canada's Housing Market

Power of Sale in Toronto

2011-01-12T15:37:00.000-08:00

I just listed this great large house on Oakwood Avenue in Toronto. One of the best prices for a 3 bedroom Detached house. Listed for only $379,900. Finished basement with a separate entrance.

Scarborough Wow

2009-03-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

I am selling a power of sale at Midland and Huntingwood, and I can't believe all of the activity in that area. 3 offers, 50 showings in 2 days. No recession here.

What is happening in Toronto Real Estate Market?

2009-02-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Well I did not think that it would happen but I am now starting to see the price drop right across the city and the GTA. $10,000 to $20,000 is not uncommon. I am also seeing the builders giving great incentives and power of sales coming out a great prices. It might not be the best time to sell, if we compare it to last spring, but it might be a great time to sell comparing it to this upcoming summer or fall. One thing for sure, it is a great time to buy, amazing rates, great prices and the banks are still helping with the down payment.

Garage Sale Tips - Getting decluttered to move

2008-05-16T06:47:00.001-07:00

If your annual spring cleaning ritual has produced a mountain of unused and unwanted items, you may want to think twice before you simply toss them out. How about a yard sale to turn some of that “junk” into someone else’s “treasure?”

Each weekend in spring and summer you’ll find yard sales popping up in neighbourhoods everywhere. And, where there are yard sales, there are yard sale “junkies.” For many people, scouring yard sales for a bargain on a Saturday morning is an art.

First, settle on a date and time for your sale. Weekends are virtually universal for yard sales, and most run from 8 or 9 a.m. until 4 or 5 p.m. You'll also need to set a rain date, usually the next day if your sale is on a Saturday, or the following weekend if your date is Sunday. Most sellers advertise by posting signs on lamp posts and hydro poles.

Running out of change is also a problem that plagues many sales.

Think like a yard sale buyer
The ability to deliver the kind of goods and service that buyers want is perhaps the most important factor in the success of your sale.

There are a number of items that are always in high demand: art, antiques (even distressed pieces), furniture, appliances, electronic equipment, tools, and lately, computer games and accessories. If you have goods in any of these categories, mention them in your flyer or ad.

Surprisingly, many veteran yard salers are not interested in old clothing. Unless you've got something special to offer, you can expect to turn much of your old wardrobe over to charity.

As to pricing your goods, nothing turns away a potential buyer more than a price that is too high. You can always expect haggling, but most won't even bother if you price an old lamp at $20, when similar items can be had for $5.

Don't clutter up your yard, and make sure your items are separated by category.

A friendly face and a free cup of java can do wonders.

Finally, the success of a yard sale is measured by the amount of additional space you have in your house after the yard sale is over, and the amount of money you make. Now you may be tempted to run out and purchase more items that will likely end up in your next yard sale. But, why not celebrate your success by spending the money on dinner at a nice restaurant for the family and whoever helped at the sale. Source: OREA

Your Real Estate Amigo

2008-05-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

What does it mean? It means that I treat each client as a friend, someone that after they sell or purchase, they will be happy to see me. It means that I keep in touch with my clients and make sure that everything goes well both during the real estate process and afterwards. It means that I take into consideration what the real estate transaction means to you in the future, just not what it means today. Will it get you closer to your goals and dreams?