2011 is just around the corner! Wow !! where did 2010 go.
Welcome to winter in Southwestern Ontario. London so far this year has had as much or more snow than all of last year. Real Estate continues regardless of the weather and real estate in the winter is always a challenge for both the Sellers and the Buyers. The Sellers face many different challenges and some of our RE/MAX assoicates from across North America, especially the norther states, have some very sound advice which we want to pass along. If you have any questions about selling your home in the winter, give The Grants a call at 519-667-1800 or sales@the-grants.com. Have a Happy New Year
5 Tips to Sell a Home in the Winter
Selling a home in December, January or February in frigid climates can be a tough task with a slowdown in market activity and chilly weather.
Typically, buyers searching in the winter months are more serious. And sellers who are motivated to close quickly can make it happen with your help this winter.
Here are five tips from RE/MAX Associates in Northern Illinois that you can share with your clients:
1. Let those lights shine. "Turn on all interior lights for a showing – even in closets and utility/mechanical rooms – and make sure all the bulbs are working. Stock up on all the right bulbs for your lamps and fixtures so you can replace burned out bulbs immediately. Also, it's a great idea to keep front exterior lights on even if no showings are scheduled. Open drapes and blinds to let in light and show visitors the view."
– Marlene Granacki, RE/MAX Exclusive Properties, Chicago 2. Make entry easy. "Winter showings can get off to an awkward start if prospective buyers arrive with snow or salt on their shoes. Make it easy for buyers to deal with their shoes when they arrive by putting out a nice, festive area rug at the front door so visitors can wipe their feet, and have slippers or disposable booties available. Also, put out a bench, if there's room for one, where visitors can sit and remove their shoes."
– Barbara Hibnick, RE/MAX Showcase, Long Grove
3. Keep odors under control. "Homes can be stuffy in winter when windows are rarely opened, and that can allow odors to build up, which is a huge turn-off to buyers. Pet odors can be especially worrisome in winter. Use a room fragrance if needed, but nothing too strong, and clean more often (especially cat litter, which should be changed daily). Consider using an air purifier and adjusting your thermostat so that your furnace fan runs throughout the day to move air through the house and dissipate odors."
– Mike Mondello, RE/MAX Team 2000, Orland Park
4. Make it festive. "Appropriate holiday decorations can give your home a cheerful look during the winter months – and even help homes sell, however, don't go to extremes. Small, decorative white lights on trees and bushes are OK through the winter season, but other decorations should be taken down quickly once the holiday passes."
– Starr Zook, RE/MAX on Track, Aledo
5. Keep it comfy. Adjust your thermostat so the temperature is warm, but comfortable; you don't want it too hot or cold. "When it comes to keeping heating bills under control, don't use plastic sheeting to insulate your windows. You may save a few hundred dollars on heating costs if you cover the windows with plastic, but it could cost you thousands on the sales price because buyers might believe they will have to replace the windows," Hibnick says.
© 2010 RE/MAX, LLC. RE/MAX Affiliates may share this article, provided they do not charge for it and this notice is included. All other rights reserved.
Purchasing a Condominium - The Status Certificate
When purchasing a resale condominium unit it is important to consider the financial condition of the condominium corporation and not just look at the location, amenities and features of the unit.Most purchasers do not pay enough attention to these other issues. The most important protection for a purchaser is to have a condition in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale which states that the purchase is conditional upon the Purchaser's lawyer receiving a completed status certificate from the condominium corporation and having at least 5 business days to review and approve same. It is essential that the status certificate is properly completed and that the required documents are also provided. The form of status certificate is set out in the regulations to the Condominium Act and the form lists those documents which the condominium corporation is required to deliver with the certificate. Anyone is entitled to request a status certificate and regardless of who requests the certificate a purchaser or mortgagee is entitled to rely on the responses or absence of responses. Because of the binding nature of what is contained in the status certificate, great care should be taken in reviewing. The time for delivery of a status certificate is ten days from the date of a written request and payment of the $100 (including taxes). Often times real estate agents will complain about the length of time it takes to get a status certificate especially since the deal will be conditional upon the status certificate review and parties are always eager to have the deal firmed up. The Condominium Act, however, gives the condominium corporation 10 days to provide the status certificate and no wording should be inserted in an agreement which would shorten that time period, unless the status certificate has been obtained and can be reviewed by the solicitor within the time period set out in the condition. On the other hand, I often hear complaints from property managers who prepare the status certificates and feel that the $100 charge barely cover their costs in providing the documentation and need the time to get the up to date financial information. The status certificate contains important information that will give the purchaser details as to the following items:
Common Expenses The status certificate must indicate when the next payment of common expenses is due, how much is due, if a unit owner is in default of common expenses, and if so, by how It may also contain other added costs such as: Any assessment against the unit for overcrowding Any insurance deductible amount that an owner is responsible for under the insurance policy Costs of repairs to the unit and/or common elements where owner is responsible for and has failed to do; Costs, charges and expenses for non-compliance with an agreement allowing an owner to modify common elements
Surplus or Deficit The certificate also requires that the certificate identify the expected financial position of the corporation at the end of the current budget and requires an explicit dollar value for the expected surplus or deficit. The significance of this information is directly related to the time of the year at which the information is obtained. If the corporation's fiscal year end is December and the status certificate is requested in March, the corporation will be unable to advise a purchaser or any other person who requests the certificate; as to whether there will be a budget surplus or shortfall. If, however, the status certificate is requested in November, a much more accurate picture of the likelihood of and the amount of deficit or surplus should be available.
Anticipated increases The certificate will also note any anticipated increases in common expenses. Some corporations insert very general statements, which suggest that increases may occur at any time due to unanticipated utility increases.
Reserve Fund The Reserve Fund information in the status certificate requires that the exact dollar value of the total amount in the Reserve Fund as of a particular month end, 90 days prior to the date the certificate is issued, be inserted.
Legal Proceedings, Claims The certificate must indicate if there are any outstanding actions to which the corporation is a party and any judgments against the Corporation.
Agreement with owners relating to changes to the common elements These agreements are required between the condominium corporation and the unit owner when the unit owner has been given permission to carry out alterations to the common elements. The agreement sets out the owner's responsibilities for the alterations, puts the obligations with respect to the maintenance and repair of the alterations onto the owner and allows the corporation to carry out any of the owner's obligations, if the owner fails to do so, and collect the costs for doing so as a common expense. These agreements must be included with the status certificate. The agreements must be registered against title to the unit and are binding on future owners. The status certificate together with the accompanying documents contains essential information which a purchaser should carefully review prior to finalizing the decision to buy a condominium unit. The process of the review should be conducted by the purchasers lawyer together with the purchaser in order for a purchaser so that the purchaser is aware of the operations and the financial position of the corporation.
: Toronto Attorneys & Lawyers Heenan Blaikie LLP Canada
LIFE IS A GIFT -- RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!
It is always nice to have assistance for home owners. We support the Affordable Homeownership Assistance Program offered by the City of London. If you are considering buying or selling - it is time to call The Grants 519-667-1800. Be sure to listen to The Grants on the Homeshow with Mike Stubbs, NEWSTALK Radio 1290 CJBK.begining January 8, 2011.
Life Is A Gift -- Ride It Like You Stole It!
The Corporation of The City of London
May 20, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Homeownership now made easier
The City of London is pleased to announce it will offer the Affordable Homeownership Assistance Program again this year. This very successful program consists of an interest free loan for qualifying home buyers to assist with down payment and closing costs.
To be eligible, households must have a gross household income of $55,000 or less, and must be approved for a mortgage at a recognized financial institution. The selling price of the home must be no higher than $140,000. New this year is an increase to the closing cost assistance, which has been raised to 3% from 1%.
The Homeownership Assistance Program is a partnership between the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and the City of London through the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program (AHP) which offers low-to-moderate income earners the opportunity to purchase a home in London and Middlesex County.
The federal and provincial governments have set a deadline of December 31, 2010 to expend the funding allocated to the City of London.
About the Program
The Homeownership Assistance Program is an interest free loan providing 5% in down payment assistance to interested eligible applicants in London and Middlesex County only. Qualifying home buyers can also receive another 3% of the cost of the home to assist in paying "closing costs" including legal fees, disbursements and registration on title.
Applicants must be renters, at least 18 years old, must not currently own a home or a residential property in whole or in part (including recreation or cottage property). Post secondary graduate students may qualify to deduct their annual Canada-Ontario Integrated Student Loan payments from their gross annual income.
Eligible applicants can select a home of their choice in the open market in London or Middlesex County only. Eligible applicants must meet all the specified requirements, income criteria and must be qualified for a mortgage at a recognized financial institution.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Those selected purchasers must find a suitable home priced up to $140,000 by the provincial deadline of December 31, 2010, (the actual closing date of the sale may be after that date).
View full details on the program and the application package. More information is available by calling 519-661-2500 ext. 5523.
The Weather Network has issued a weather warning that effects the City of London and surrounding area. We urge all to drive safely and stay at home if possible. Make some bread
Snow Squall Warning
Issued at 2:14 PM EST Monday 6 December 2010
Summary
Radar continues to shows flurries and snow squalls off Lake Huron and Georgia bay. The strongest squall comes from Lake Huron between grand band and London and then continues southeastward. Reports of 45 to 70 cm of snow were received over northwestern and southwestern sections of London. Significant blowing snow especially near the shore is likely. Another big squall moves from Georgian Bay towards Vaughan with 15 to 30 cm of snow reported. Snow amount in beaton reached 70 cm. Radar also shows a squall coming off Lake Ontario towards Niagara region. Local amounts 10 to 15 cm are possible.
Details
Strong and cold northwest winds blowing over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay will result in snow squalls with bursts of heavy snow and local whiteout conditions today and into Tuesday. A significant issue in all areas will be zero visibilities in whiteout conditions from blowing snow thanks to the northwesterly winds gusting to 60 km/h. Motorists should note that dangerous winter driving conditions from whiteout conditions can and suddenly will develop from bursts of heavy snow and blowing snow. Quickly accumulating snow will also be a significant hazard...Which may make some highways virtually impassible to the southeast of Lake Huron due to the longevity of the snow squalls which may result in excessive snow depths. The lake effect flurries and snow squalls may persist into Wednesday in this long-lived event. Environment Canada continues to closely monitor this situation.
Tender Lawn Care Ltd keeps us up to date on the latest London Winter Weather. Drive safe and stay at home if you can.
Subject: Snow Update, 8 am, Dec 6Good Morning. For the benefit of those considering travelling the City this morning, be advised that even main roads are generally not in the best shape, eg, Wonderland, Commissioner’s, Airport Roads. Grade and high schools are closed, but as of 7:30 Fanshawe and Western were open and buses were running. A trip across the City is likely 75-90 mins.West London got hit hard yesterday, but overnight it was central and especially east London that got a lot of new snow and a lot of drifting. Some of your clients may observe that their roads do not appear to be plowed, but we will have been at every project at least once in the last 6 hours; just driving around you will see much, much worse; many lots appear to have 18”-2’ of snow without drifts. Our goal is to keep roads open all day, and to have parking spots cleared once by noon. Walkways will have been done once by noon; the crews started at midnight. They will be in tough shape though, with so much new snow.We will quit most operations by about 3 pm today to give our crews time off from 4 pm-midnight, when we will resume plowing and shovelling. This 3 pm stop should leave roads passable for anyone coming home at the dinner hour.Environment Canada warns of 20-30 cm today, and 20-30 more tonight, and 20 more tomorrow.Dave LeffGrounds Maintenance ManagerTender Lawn Care Ltd.2026 Oxford Street EastLondon, Ontario N5V 2Z8
A real estate rebound
Welcome to the Forest City, London Ontario. The London & St Thomas Association of Realtors report an uptick in sales. The increase in sales for November is a great indicator that the London & Area Real Estate Market is strong and providing great value for Buyers. If you are looking to move give The Grants a call at 519-667-1800 or email sales@the-grants.com.
HOUSING HOPE: After a tough, four-month losing streak, London-area home sales jump 6.2% in November from last year
Last Updated: December 2, 2010 7:14am
The London area has snapped its long losing streak in housing, with a 6.2% spike in sales last month.
November's numbers -- 620 homes moved -- were this year's first monthly increase in sales, compared to last years, since June.
Every month in between, sales plunged by double-digit levels.
It's a sign the real-estate market is stabilizing and, if anything, coming around faster than expected, one analyst says.
The local real-estate industry's point man echoes that.
"I think we are in a balanced market -- we should see a decent spring," said Richard Thyssen, president of the London St. Thomas Association of Realtors.
David Lan of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. said he didn't expect to see a sales recovery until early next year, so the latest numbers are a pleasant surprise.
He's forecast a modest recovery in the market next year, saying London-St. Thomas should see about 8,100 sales in 2011.
While that's down from a peak of nearly 9,400 sales in 2007, before the brutal recession hit the area's manufacturing backbone, it's still considered respectable.
"The overall number will not be that high, but it will be a stable year," said Lan.
November's figures show the market is evening out and shaking off the effects of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which took effect July 1, said Thyssen.
"It was nice to see things come back after the HST and the downturn that was expected in the summer," he said.
The bright local economic twist came together with a national one Wednesday, with a big-bank study saying household debt in Canada may not be as bad as the headlines suggest and consumers aren't likely to slam the brakes on spending next year.
Focusing only on rising debt, now worth nearly one-and-a-half-times household income, overlooks that family wealth has also risen, the BMO Capital Markets study said. Household net worth is now about six times disposable income, helped by rebounding stock markets and a better savings rate, it said.
After setting a record in May, real-estate sales in the London area waned through summer and fall, falling 15 to 21% from the same period in 2009.
While the 13% HST doesn't apply directly to homes, it affects buyers' other costs -- such as real-estate commissions, moving and legal fees.
There was a strong surge in demand in the London-area market in the first five months of this year, largely driven by fears mortgage rates would rise, Lan said.
That depleted the pool of potential buyers for months. But Lan said mortgage rates have been stable, even dropping, and buyers are starting to drift back.
Prices have held up well in the London-St. Thomas market, despite the recent downturn, Thyssen noted.
The average price of homes sold in November was $223,096, up 3.6% from the same month last year.
The Grants get asked over and over about what records can been seen by condo owners. Gerry Hyman explains this extremely well. If you have any questions regarding your condominium, please give us a call or email sales@the-grants.com
Have a great day;
Hyman: Request for AGM minutes cannot be refused
November 19, 2010 Gerry Hyman
SPECIAL TO THE STAR
Q: I have asked to examine the minutes of our recent annual general meeting. Management advised that the minutes will not be available until after they are approved at the next AGM approximately one year from now. Is that correct?
A: There is no reason for the minutes to be withheld on the basis that they haven’t been approved. Owners will see the unapproved minutes when they are sent out with the notice of the next AGM. The minutes constitute a record of the corporation and an owner is entitled to examine them and to request copies subject to the payment of a reasonable fee for labour and copying charges. Management could append a note stating that the minutes are subject to approval at the next owners’ meeting.
Given serious escalation in detached housing values, condominium apartments and towns have now emerged as the first step to homeownership, says RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada.
Affordability has fuelled buying activity across the board, according to the 2010 RE/MAX Condominium Report, highlighting trends and developments in eight Ontario markets and one in Nova Scotia. Condominiums now represent one in every three homes sold in the Greater Toronto Area; close to one in every four homes sold in Ottawa and Hamilton-Burlington; and almost one in every five homes sold in London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Collingwood. The trend has translated into a solid upswing in unit sales activity, with 78 per cent of markets posting an increase in year-to-date sales (January – September 2010 vs. 2009)—with percentage gains outperforming overall residential sales in most markets examined.
As one of few affordable housing options available to first-time buyers, the concept is poised for dramatic growth in years to come. The lifestyle has also gained a foothold with younger, hipper audiences, as the definition of homeownership evolves with the changing demographic. Dreams of the small home with a white picket fence are being replaced by the funky loft apartment in close proximity to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
CONDOMINIUM UNIT SALES – YEAR-TO-DATE (SEPT.)
Market 2010 2009 % +/-
Ottawa 2,799 2,501 11.9%
Thunder Bay 48 50 -4.0%
Collingwood* 246 230 6.9%
Barrie 246 234 0.8%
Greater Toronto 22,499 20,362 10.4%
Hamilton-Burlington 1,969 1,858 6.0%
Kitchener-Waterloo* 811 752 7.8%
London 1,246 1,205 3.4%
Halifax-Dartmouth 562 579 -2.9%
*Georgian Triangle ** August Statistics
Other factors that support an escalation in condominium sales include an expanding population base, especially in areas like Barrie which saw a 21 per cent increase in the 2006 census. Immigration and in-migration will also play a role, with at least half of new immigrants settling in Ontario—and more specifically, the Golden Horseshoe. Urban renewal and intensification also add to the mix, drawing younger purchasers to the downtown core of major urban centres.
While the greatest activity continues to occur in the lower price points—under $200,000 in areas like Ottawa, Barrie, and London and under $300,000 in Toronto and Collingwood—luxury product is also attracting more affluent empty-nesters and retirees to the maintenance-free lifestyle. Condominium sales in the GTA over the $1,000,000 price point have seen a 49 per cent increase year-over-year, while condos priced in excess of $450,000 in Ottawa have seen sales jump 72 per cent compared to the same period in 2009.
Investors are also an active part of the equation, spurring demand for entry-level resale product in college and university towns like London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Barrie—in the hopes of cashing in on student housing. New construction in major centres has also experienced an increase in investment activity—with the vast majority of units in Toronto’s downtown core purchased by Asian and Middle Eastern investors as a long-term hold.
Unlike 1989, when a flood of new condominium listings wreaked havoc on the market, these purchasers are in for the long haul. Leverage is not a factor, with most paying cash for their units. If they can’t sell their apartments, they’re more than prepared to rent them out.
THE GRANTS
Connie Grant
Broker, ACCI, FCCI, CRES, CMOC
Associate of the Canadian Condominium Institute
Fellow of the Canadian Condominium Institute
Certified Real Estate Specialist
Certified Manager of Condominiums
RE/MAX Hall Of Fame
Fraser Grant
Broker, CPM, FRI, CMOC, CRP, ACCI, FCCI
Certified Property Manager
Fellow of Real Estate Institute of Canada
Certified Manager of Condominiums
Certified Reserve Fund Planner
Associate of the Canadian Condominium Institute
Fellow of the Canadian Condominium Institute
RE/MAX Hall Of Fame
“When It Comes To Condominiums YOU Should Be Talking To Us”
Halloween Safety Tips
courtesy the Los Angeles Fire Department
BEFORE HALLOWEEN:
· Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
· Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
· Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
· Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
· When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
· Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
· Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
· Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
· This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.
· Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.
· Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
· Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.
FUN ALTERNATIVES:
BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN:
· A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
· Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.
· While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults.
· Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.
· Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.
· Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.
· Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
· Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.
· Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.
· Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.
· Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.
WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING:
· Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
· Remind Trick-or-Treaters:
· By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
· Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.
· Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
· Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
· If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.
· Never cut across yards or use alleys.
· Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
· Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
· Always walk. Never run across a street.
· Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
· Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.
· Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.
· Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
· No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.
· Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING:
· Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
· Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.
· Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.
We wish you a safe and happy Halloween!
REMEBER ON SATURDAY NIGHT NOVEMBER 6TH, 2010 AT MIDNIGHT, "CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS AND CHANGE YOUR BATTERIES".
" LIFE IS A GIFT -- RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT "
Good Morning
I am sure that you have read the headlines in the major news papers about the Federal Government "forcing" the Canadian Real Estate Association to open up its access to the MLS system or Realtor.ca. We think Michael Polzler of RE/MAX Ontario Atlantic says it best so you are encouraged to read his letter below. Should you have any questions please call us at 519-667-1800.
The Grants
October 26th, 2010
CREA ratification of Competition Consent Agreement
Despite all the media hoopla associated with Sunday's vote by CREA members to ratify the Competition Consent Agreement, it will be business as usual for real estate professionals across the country.
The public will continue to access listings on the MLS system or Realtor.ca, but any posts to the system remain firmly in the hands of local realtors. Under the terms of the new, 10-year agreement, CREA and the Boards cannot prevent or discriminate against 'mere postings' and members who offer 'mere postings.' CREA does not believe that such rules exist today-but if they do-they must be repealed or Boards will lose their license to operate under the MLS trademark.
So all in all, it's business as usual. Sure, consumers have more choices, but then again, they always have. Discount brokers have been around for years. There is a reason why the MLS system is responsible for 90 per cent of resale housing transactions in the country. Canadians rely on the full-service approach provided by the country's 100,000 real estate professionals. Regardless of alternatives, most people require the services of an experienced agent to sell their home.
All we need to do is look south of the border-where the process is similar-for confirmation of that fact. According to the National Post, "the U.S. Department of Justice negotiated an anti-trust settlement with the National Association of Realtors allowing internet brokers and other agents offering discounted commissions to access the MLS in 2008. Two years later, traditional full-service brokers still control between 70 and 80 per cent of the U.S. housing market, and the average commission has increased to 5.3 per cent of the sale price from five per cent in 2008."
In fact, NAR statistics provided by the National Post show 80 per cent of sellers use a full-service broker, managing most of a transaction from listing to closing. Another nine per cent choose limited services that include discount brokerage and 11 per cent opt for the bare minimum of just listing on MLS.
There's a story to be told here. Consumers place value on the services we provide as realtors and that's not about to change. Why? We have the knowledge and expertise to generate results. Few are willing to take chances with their most valuable asset. As Canada's leading real estate organization, we will continue to do what we do best-assisting buyers and sellers with the biggest financial decision of their lifetime.
Take a moment to look at our new marketing campaign on the critical role of a RE/MAX agent. It is easily found on www.FitToSell.ca. This timely campaign demonstrates the value of using a professional RE/MAX agent. It should help offset some of the negative press, until things settle.
As I said, business as usual.
Sincerely,
Michael Polzler
Executive Vice President, Regional Director
RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada Inc.
THE GRANTS
London Real Estate – SOLD STICKERS ON – PROPERTY SOLD @ 1415 COMMISSIONERS RD.
Another day of just doing what we do best, Selling Homes. What a great day. Just returned from putting a SOLD sticker on our 4 Sale sign and removing the lock box from a condominium in Byron. No matter how many sales we have, we are always excited every time we put a SOLD sticker on one of our 4 Sale signs. It is always a great day for the Seller as they can now move on. The Buyer is always excited looking forward to their new home and meeting new friends in the neighbourhood. Want to experience this excitement, call The Grants and get started on the road to having a SOLD sticker put on our 4 Sale sign for your home.
“LIFE IS A GIFT – RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT”
Once again Gerry Hyman makes things clear on the condominium front. In this article he provides clear advise on the sale of common element and the the rental of common element for the use as a cellphone antenae. If you have any questions on condominiuims please call The Grants 519-667-1800 or email sales@the-grants.com. Have a great day.
LIFE IS A GIFT -- RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!
Condo owners elect a board to conduct the business of the condominium corporation. Very interesting article in the Saturday Toronto Star by Gerry Hyman on the rights of an owner to attend board of director meetings.
DETACHED RESIDENTIAL STATISTICAL REPORT FOR MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2010
September 2010 475 detached sold, a decline of 17.0% from the same period in 2009 in which 572 detached sold.
The Y-T-D numbers for 2010 are 5,321 detached sold, an improvement of 2.5% over the same period in 2009.
The average price of a detached sold increased in September 2010 by 2.4% over the same period in 2009. The good news is that the Y-T-D average is up 6.2%.
If you have any questions regarding the real estate market in London and the surrounding area, please give us a call at 519-667-1800.
Enjoy the beautiful fall colors that nature is presenting to us.
???LIFE IS A GIFT ??? RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT???
CONDO RESIDENTIAL STATISTICAL REPORT FOR MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2010
September 2010 114 condo’s sold, a decline of 16.2% from the same period in 2009 in which 136 condo’s sold.
The Y-T-D numbers for 2010 are 1,246 condo’s sold, an improvement of 3.4% over the same period in 2009.
The average price of a condo sold declined in September 2010 by 3.3% over the same period in 2009. The good news is that the Y-T-D average is up 8.3%.
If you have any questions regarding the real estate market in London and the surrounding area, please give us a call at 519-667-1800.
Enjoy the beautiful fall colors that nature is presenting to us.
“LIFE IS A GIFT – RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT”
ACMO LONDON CONDO CONFERENCE ??? OCTOBER 1, 2010
ACMO is very excited to offer a one day conference in London, Ontario. There will be sessions on ???Relationships with Boards??? and ???Ask the Expert???. Local trades serving the condominium industry will also be participating with tabletop exhibits. This event will be first come first served.
If you would like more information contact us and we will get the registration information to you. A pdf of the flyer is attached.
You know that The Grants are very committed to the promotion of the condominium life style and the quality of the service provided to the condominium community.
Help Shape Our City's Future!
You can help shape the direction of London's next City Council by getting involved with Action London 2010. This is a growing grassroots group of associations, organizations, business owners and individuals who believe that participating to the democratic process is the best way to make positive changes in London.
The group's interactive web site provides Londoners from all walks of life with a valuable opportunity to talk about the issues affecting our City and the people who would like to represent us as City Councillors.???It's your chance to have a say and make a difference at the local level, which, after all, is where it all begins. Check it out: www.actionlondon2010.ca.
Please pass this site onto all your friends.
'LIFE IS A GIFT -- RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT"
"Back to School" Snack Drive
The London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS?? is organizing a "Back to School" Snack Drive in support of the Women's Community House.
Women's Community House (WCH) provides emergency housing, second stage housing, and transitional support for abused women and their children.
The children residing at WCH desperately need lunch snacks, which are sent along to school with them each day. LSTAR is asking for donations consisting of juice boxes and non-perishable lunch snacks ??? preferably peanut-free.
Click here to see the event's flyer.
Thank you for your generosity!
p.s.: If you need more information please call The Grants at 519-667-1800
Investor Education: Buying a home
GREAT ONE FLOOR OPEN CONCEPT CONDOMINIUM ??? END UNIT
One floor end unit, double garage located in an adult oriented complex. This unit is not located next the road. This condo has professionally finished lower level with large windows and a three-piece bath. The inviting living room has a marble fireplace and vaulted ceiling with a door to the patio deck. This one floor condo has approximately 1400 sq ft on the main level. You will love the spacious rooms and the open concept. The condominium development takes pride in the landscaping. This is your opportunity to enjoy this lovingly maintained condominium home.
Rare find in one of Byrons best kept secrets. Bright and spacious unit with deck off of main and lower level walkout to your private patio and the ravine. You will love the location and the condition of this unit. Serenity abounds inside and out. Two full baths on upper level plus a powder room on the main level. Great room with corner gas fireplace. Modern kitchen with pass through to dining area. 9ft ceilings, vaulted ceiling in master bedroom which also boasts wall to wall closet space. Parking for 2 cars. This is the "Condo Apartment Alternative". This one is special, view it, buy it and just move in!
Enjoy London’s downtown living at its best. You will be walking distance to all of London’s downtown features; JLC, shopping, theatres, clubs etc. Balcony overlooks Harris Park. Adult oriented building. Great open design with 5 appliances. Enjoy the recreation facilities. Book the private meeting room for family get together. Underground parking keeps you out of the elements on those cold and wet days. This is your opportunity to move to the Condo lifestyle.
