Oct 14, 2014 Issue 104 by The Real Estate Market Watch

WHAT’S INSIDE: 10 Ways to Avoid Buying the Wrong House PAGE 6

LUXURY & WateRfRont | PAGE 3 HoMeS foR SaLe | PAGE 5 Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & niagara

RentaLS | PAGE 8 HoMeS foR SaLe | PAGE 9 Hamilton, Stoney Creek, ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

October 14, 2014 - Vol 69b

Tips for Paying Down your Mortgage Faster Purchasing a home is most likely the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make in your life. And while we’re seeing some record breaking low mortgage rates, it’s always in a homeowner’s best interest to pay down their mortgage as fast as possible. Meridian, Ontario’s largest credit union, provides the following tips to help homeowners save thousands of dollars in interest and take years off their mortgage:

1. Accelerate Your Mortgage Payments- When setting up your mortgage consider an accelerated weekly or bi-weekly payment schedule. Over the course of a 25-year mortgage those accelerated payments will take years off the mortgage and save you thousands of dollars in interest. 2. Make a Lump Sum - Most financial institutions allow homeowners to

make lump sum payments that are directly applied to the outstanding mortgage principle. Meridian’s 20/20 repayment program allows homeowners to pay down up to 20% of the original principal balance per year without penalty and can be done at any time in the year without notice. 3. Never lower your payment – When it comes time to renew your mortgage at a renewed rate, don’t lower

your payments. This will help pay down your mortgage sooner especially if you have secured a lower mortgage rate. In fact, annually increasing your payments by just $5 can take a full year off your mortgage in the early years of a 25 year term mortgage. To learn more about mortgages visit www.meridiancu.ca.

HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

Page 2

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

about Rob Golfi

October 14, 2014

Seniors Real Estate Specialist

is a designation for REALTORS® to address the needs of home buyers and sellers, age 50-plus.

ob’s career in real estate began in october 1997 and putting the needs of his clients first has always been a primary principle. Rob joined Re/MaX escarpment January 1st 1999. as his career grew and with changing times in the marketplace, Rob realized that the team concept was the next step in order to maintain the same level of service that his clients had come to expect. Hence, “the Golfi team” was formed, comprised of a select group of individuals who work well together and share Rob’s team philosophy. In 2003, the team received the prestigious honour of being in the top 100 Real estate teams for Re/MaX Canada*. and this status continues to date*. Rob has received every major award available at Re/MaX including the Diamond Club (2010-2012)*, 100% Club (1999-2001)*, Platinum Club (2002)*, Chairmans Club (2003-2009)*, Hall of fame (Inducted in 2003)*, and the Lifetime achievement award (Inducted in 2006)*, Circle of Legends (2013).* Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills are key in this business. any agent can list your house, but Rob’s knowledge and ability to negotiate constructively gives his clients peace of mind in dealing with the single most important investment in their lives. Rob has an extensive marketing background that compliments his real estate career. He has achieved an impressive visual identity in the market place. Rob also prides himself on his ability to stay current with in the industry and to remain competitive in the marketplace. His hard work and dedication has awarded him the honour of consistently ranked in the top 5 of nearly 2500 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington and niagara area since (2003).** Currently (2013)* Rob is ranked number 1 in transactions sales ends in the Hamilton-Burlington and niagara area.

where the future takes shape

If you are buying or selling a home,

contact Rob Golfi today.

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

905-575-7700

visit www.Golfiteam.com

“Each client is always treated with First Class Service.”

Check out our Blog for the latest information in Real estate

*Based on RE/MAX Ontario Atlantic Canada annual commission criteria **Based on The Real Estate Association of Hamilton-Burlington total transactions January 1, 2003 – March 31, 2013.

We SELL more... because we DO more! THE ULTIMATE SELLING TEAM SHarOn StaFFOrD

HanS MarCELISSEn

WEnDY MUrraYnICHOLSOn

MIkE MCnEIL

Dan GOLFI

JEFF GOLFI

CHrIStInE SEraFInI

ErIC PInI, B.a.

LaUra BIELak

JEnnIFEr DraHO

PEnnY CIarDELLI

Hank BaLFOOrt

ROB GOLFI SaleS RepReSentative

www.GolfiTeam.com |

905.575.7700 |

www. GolfiTeam .com

1.800.288.9184

October 14, 2014

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

Page 3

Luxury Homes & Waterfront Properties 25.5 AcREs

WATERFRONT

37 AcREs

GRImsBY

$1,074,900

GRImsBY

$959,900

hAmILTONeAsT

$949,900

CARLIsLe

$899,900

191 Kemp Road East

342 Kemp Road West

1089 Beach Boulevard

13 Elderberry Lane

3552 sQ. FT. BUnGAlOW on 25.5 acre property. 3+1 bedroom home features hardwood & ceramics, crown moulding, coffered ceiling, solid cherry custom kitchen, granite, marble, 3 car garage w/entrance to mudroom, main floor laundry.

CUsTOM BUIlT home on 37 acres. Features nanny's quarters or 2 bedroom in-law suite, 2 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen, ceramics, vaulted ceilings, in-ground pool, 3 car gar. Barn w/13 stalls, 4 paddocks & a 60x140 arena. Minutes from town!

TrenDY BeACH BlVD – spectacular & luxurious best describes this awesome beauty! executive free hold townhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishes through-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, and oversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington & quick access to QeW

Gorgeous backyard w/12x12 cabana w/hydro, custom pool, fenced yard, stamped concrete and private treed setting. Professionally finished basement w/solid oak wet bar, oversized 3 car garage, roof, furn & A/C 2009, CV 2011, Pool Pump 2014.

$3,834per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$4,293per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

$3,594per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,794per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

Docking Rights Available!

GRImsBY

$899,900 1 11th Street

BIGGer THAn IT lOOks! 2200 sq ft completely rebuilt Waterfront retreat w/180-degree views of lake feat. 3 bedrms & 2 baths in a . large master suite w/ensuite, two main floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area, spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. Turn the key & leave w/this zero maintenance freehold property!

FORTeRIe

sTONeYCReek

FORTeRIe

$799,900

3723 Niagara River Parkway

CUsTOM BUIlT HOMe facing the niagara river, four large bedrooms, plus finished attic with roughed in bath for a fifth bedroom. solid oak doors and trim throughout. Unspoiled basement with walkout. new C/A, Furnace ‘01. roof ‘05. Does not disappoint!

BreATHTAkInG VIeWs on 2 acres! 4+1 bdrm home features Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigation sprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator, furnace 6yrs, new, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & a nicely landscaped yard! Docking rights available! $3,194per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,395per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,591per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

$849,900

1645 Niagara Parkway

WATERFRONT

$737,000

sTONeYCReek

$955,000

143 Lake Street FABUlOUs FInD – exclusive listing to the Golfi Team. Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot on private cul-de-sac, build your dream home on the shores of lake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lot line. $3,814per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

$774,900

BURLINGTON

$1,799,999

37 Edgewater Drive

63 Edgewater Drive

6195 Milburough Line

FAnTAsTIC lAke VIeW This beautiful Waterfront 4+1 bedroom home makes you feel like you are away from home! Main floor offers open concept with sliding doors to the patio. Have your morning coffee on the patio and sit back and enjoy the sound of the water! 2 master bedrooms with ensuites.

sTUnnInG VIeW OF THe lAke! This beautiful Waterfront 4+1 bedroom home makes you feel like you are away from home! Main floor offers open concept with sliding doors to the patio. Have your morning coffee on the patio and sit back and enjoy the sound of the water! 2 master bedrooms with ensuites.

ClAssIC GeOrGIAn COlOnIAl MAnOr with picturesque tree-lined private driveway. Featuring gleaming hardwood, entertainers kitchen, stunning great room with 14 ft ceiling, and custom millwork and trim thru-out. Upstairs you will find 4 spacious bedrms all featuring their own ensuite, as well as bedroom level laundry.

$2,944per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

GRImsBY

$3,095per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$7,189per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

$1,769,900

9 Lochside Drive One ACre WATerFrOnT esTATe – features luxury 4400 sq.ft. custom built bungalow with a private rare beach frontage and riparian rights, finished top to bottom with inlaw suite, 9’ ceilings, 3 tier patio off sun-room, loft to roof top patio, main floor den, and floor to ceiling windows. shows like a dream! $7,069per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

VOTE LuANA YACHETTI Visit Luana’s website to learn more about Luana’s vision for a better

JOHN HICKSON

FOR ALDERMAN GRIMSBY WARD 4

Ward 10 and a Greater Hamilton!

Follow me @hickson4ward4 HicksonGrimsby4@gmail.com Voter info at:

www.grimsby.ca/Mayor-N-Council/Elections

www.getreadyforyachetti.com

Call Today 905-575-7700

Page 4

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

How to Sell a Home That Didn’t Sell

MUST SELL • • • •

estate sales Bank Foreclosures Company-Owned Properties Distress sales

Free list with Pictures www.HamiltonDistressSales.com

HAMIlTOn/nIAGArA – If your home has just come off the market and hasn’t sold, don’t be discouraged. The reason your home did not sell may have nothing to do with your home or the market. In reality, your home may have been one of the most desirable properties for sale. So Why Didn’t Your Home Sell? last year almost half of the homes listed for sale never sold at all, and many sellers found that there was a tremendous amount a homeowner needed to be educated on to sell their home for top dollar in the shortest time period. Don’t risk making the wrong choices and losing both time and money on your investment. Before you hire a realtor, know the right questions to ask to save you time and money. Industry experts have prepared a free special report called “How to Sell a House that Didn’t Sell” which educates you on the issues involved. Please visit www.CouldntSell.com

Fixer-upper HOMeS FOr SALe These homes need work. Free list with pictures. www.HamiltonFixerUpper.com

11 Critical Home Inspection Traps To Be Aware Before Listing Your Home For Sale HAMIlTOn - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale.

Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you,

you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable preinspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and

unmanageable ones. To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “11 Things You need to know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To order your free copy of this report visit www. HamiltonInspectionPitfalls.com

October 14, 2014

27 Quick & Easy Fix Ups to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar HAMIlTOn/nIAGArA – Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible. To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You should know to Get Your Home sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace. Through these 27 tips, you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the most profit possible. In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, you get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home. You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money. How to order your free copy of this report, check us out online at

www.hamilton27tips.com

Homes For Sale Bungalows & Raised Ranches Two Storeys • Semis & Town Homes HAmILTOn EAST

HAmILTOn mTn

HAmILTOn CTR

STOnEy CRk upR

STOnEy CRk LWR

GRImSBy

LInCOLn

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $83,900 36 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $182,900 68 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $119,746 23 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $324,999 10 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $224,900 29 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $255,000 21 available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 30 available

Two Storeys Starting at $174,900 16 available

Two Storeys Starting at $239,900 109 available

Two Storeys Starting at $96,500 96 available

Two Storeys Starting at $299,900 37 available

Two Storeys Starting at $319,900 52 available

Two Storeys Starting at $299,777 44 available

Two Storeys Starting at $279,900 40 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $144,900 25 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $134,900 53 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $94,555 22 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $244,900 23 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $198,900 32 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $219,000 11 available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $79,900 20 available

Call Us today for information on any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188 Call Today 905-945-0188

October 14, 2014

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

Page 5

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

Rob Golfi*

VAcANT cOmmERciAL LOT

GRImsBY

$279,900

GRImsBY

$243,900

VINeLAND

$399,700

9 Lakeview Avenue

91 Livingston Avenue, Unit #1

3869 Victoria Avenue

Great location offering detached 2 bedroom bungalow with detached single car garage. This home offers finished basement, separate dining room, large living room, great landscaped yard with deck and gazebos. rental furnace and A/C 2013, will be paid out on closing by seller. roof 2013.

end unit townhouse features family room w/ gas fireplace & sliding doors to balcony, oversized kitchen, generous size bedrooms, freshly painted. recent updates incl. kitchen w/ backsplash, new flooring in the kitchen, dining room & bedroom level.

Turn of the century home w/ beautiful trim, crown mould, rich hardwoods, French doors, character front porch. Granite kitchen counter, added on fmily room w/ kitchenette & office. Carriage house perfect for the live/work environment

$1,118per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$974per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,596per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$99,900

4946 Maple Avenue VACAnT COMMerCIAl lOT 40x140 ft. located walking distance to downtown Beamsville and QeW. services are on the road. Call rob Golfi today at 905-945-0188 for a private viewing. Thank you for visiting my website and I look forward to hearing from you $399per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

5 AcREs

25.5 AcREs

BeAmsVILLe

Docking Rights Available!

GRImsBY

$1,074,900

191 Kemp Road East 3552 sQ. FT. BUnGAlOW on 25.5 acre property. 3+1 bedroom home features hardwood & ceramics, crown moulding, coffered ceiling, solid cherry custom kitchen, granite, marble, 3 car garage w/entrance to mudroom, main floor laundry.

PeLhAm

$699,900 571 Poth Street

5 ACre PrOPerTY w/ large 4 bedrm home & barn w/ stalls. Home feat liv/rm, dinrm, eat-in maple kitchen, main flr master suite & fin bsemnt. Outdoor feat large pond, barn w/ 5 stalls, run in shed, 2 paddocks & exercise ring $2,795per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$000per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

GRImsBY

2.8 AcREs

$899,900

$479,900

180 Main Street West 2 sTOreY WITH In-lAW. 4+2 bedrm, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, new kitchen, furnace & a/c, roof & back deck. Main floor home office, den & separate dining rm. In-law has separate entrance & driveway. $1,917per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WAINFLeeT

$389,900

40830 Forks Road

2.8 ACres OF COUnTrY lIVInG with pond. Updated 2 storey country charmer. This home has it all, 4 bedroom, 2 full baths, large eat-in kitchen, main floor office, laundry and mudroom. Outside features a lovely wrap-around porch and 4 car garage. $1,557per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

FORTeRIe

$252,900

GRImsBY

$849,900

$3,395per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$379,700

$1,516per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

BUiLDiNG LOT

$955,000

BeAmsVILLe

$159,900

3 BeDrOOM TOWnHOUse with amazing views of the lake! resort style living. large eat in kitchen, living room with corner gas fireplace, updated flooring, freshly painted. In-ground pool, large courtyard, private deck off patio doors, lower level finished.

FABUlOUs FInD – exclusive listing to the Golfi Team. Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot on private cul-de-sac, build your dream home on the shores of lake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lot line.

BUIlDInG lOT rAre FInD - Fantastic opportunity to build your dream home on this 50 & 57 x 108 ft lots!, sewer and water to lot line. Buyer pays town, regional charges and park dedication plus building permit, 2 lots available. subject to severance in progress. HsT may be applicable. $639per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,814per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

BeAmsVILLe

$399,900

Academy Street rM2 ZOnInG – ¾ acre land site centrally located downtown area, permitted uses apartment dwelling, boarding or lodging dwelling, home for the aged, nursing home, group home, private home daycare. Call for details on permitted uses. $1,597per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

37 AcREs

5.5 AcREs

BeAmsVILLe

smIThVILLe

OVersIZeD lOT that can possibly be severed for a corner building lot or build a garage. Buyer to verify zoning regulations. 4 level side split in a prime location on quiet dead end street. 3+2 bedrooms, in-ground pool, walk up from basement, large double garage & driveway. Updated kitchen, windows, hardwood floors, and roof.

2 Meadowood Lane

$184,900

$3,194per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

143 Lake Street

BeAmsVILLe

3723 Niagara River Parkway BreATHTAkInG VIeWs On 2 ACres! 4+1 Br home features Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigation sprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator, furnace 6yrs, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & a nicely landscaped yard! Docking rights available!

7 Wade Road

15 Lakeside Drive, Unit 39

$1,010per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$799,900

1645 Niagara Parkway

WATERFRONT

sT.CAThARINes

FORTeRIe

WATERFRONT

1 11th Street

$3,591per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

GRImsBY

$989,900

hAmILTONmTN

$269,900

GRImsBY

$959,900

4553 Ontario Street

P/L#23 Durham Road

367 East 28th Street

342 Kemp Road West

2 BeDrM BUnGAlOW located within walking distance to downtown, shopping, great schools, & easy highway access. Amazing investment opportunity in the heart of Beamsville w/some updates including roof ‘06, furnace, hot water tank replaced approx. 5 yrs ago, garage roof ‘07

ZOneD lIGHT InDUsTrIAl AnD COMMerCIAl with 5.5 acres and 602 feet of frontage on Durham rd.

GOInG, GOInG, GOne!! lovely pocket of well-kept homes, walk to schools and shopping. Oak kitchen w/granite counters, updated windows, doors, shingles, large garage w/hydro perfect for a man cave. Private backyard oasis w/patio & landscaping. side entrance to basement and long driveway.

$739per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,954per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,078per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

Call Todaywww.golfiteam.com 905-945-0188

$3,834per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

Page 6

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

October 14, 2014

10 ways to avoid buying the wrong house

The most common mistake home buyers make is that they buy with their heart instead of their head.

he most common mistake home buyers make is that they buy with their heart instead of their head. This often means they pay more than they should or are disappointed when they uncover defects in the home or find out the neighbourhood isn’t quite what they thought. 1. Visit the neighbourhood on foot. Take a walk through the neighbourhood and talk to people. Drive by at 7:30 in the morning to see how many school buses are picking up children. You can also tell how long it may take you to commute to work during rush hour. By speaking to people, you can not only get a sense of the friendliness of the community, but also as to whether there are any surprises that no one is going to advertise, a local haunted house, vandalism, former grow houses, or the neighbour from hell. 2. Go to City Hall Visit your local building department and find out if any new developments are planned. new development may increase property values but also increase traffic. Check to see how many owners have applied for minor variances, to either build homes or additions that are larger than the by-law permits. This gives an indication of the future direction of this neighbourhood. 3. Find the right real estate agent start by asking family and friends. look for signs in the area that interest you, especially “sold” signs. This is a good indication that the agent has the area’s pulse and knows what a home should sell for. They should also likely be aware of any problems, such as sewage backups, termites or vandalism;

things that may only be known by locals. Also check the website of any agents that you may interview. Do they offer tips and explain what services they provide? Do they offer information about the neighbourhood including parks, religious institutions, demographics and schools? Ask about their success rate with bidding wars and do they know how to approach sellers who refuse to pay commission? 4. How much can you afford? When it comes to mortgages, it is not enough to know in advance how much you can safely borrow based on your income. Buyers should also realize that the lender will do an appraisal and if the lender believes you paid more than the house is worth, they will not give you the full amount of the loan that you expect. so, be very careful about stretching yourself to the limit when you make an offer on any home. 5. Title insurance is a must Title insurance can be arranged through your lawyer. You will be protected against unpaid taxes or water bills by the seller, as well as problems that are not known at closing. This includes problems where part of the home or swimming pool is in fact on your neighbour’s property. However, it is a mistake to believe that title insurance will protect you against everything. For example, title insurance will not compensate you if you thought your lot was 50 feet and a later survey showed that it was only 48 feet. 6. Why a survey is important A survey will reveal all boundary issues in advance, which will ensure that you do not have problems after

closing, especially if you plan on making additions or other improvements. 7. Choose a home inspector carefully The home inspection is a critical part of the process, so do your research. Make sure the company is registered before retaining them. The Ontario Association of Home Inspectors is a self-regulating body that defines qualifications for home inspectors, and grants the designation rHI, or registered Home Inspector, to qualified practitioners in Ontario. Most inspection firms have a limitation of liability clause, which states that if they miss something that costs you money, they are not responsible. Ask the company if they have ever been sued by a buyer. 8. Ask the seller hard questions Ask the sellers if they have had basement flooding problems, or mould or roof leaks, even if the leaks have been repaired. Watch how they answer. Most sellers will now refuse to sign property disclosure statements, but they are required to respond truthfully to these questions if you ask them directly. If the seller refuses to answer or acts suspiciously, then you need to discuss this with your home inspector and your real estate agent and either adjust your purchase offer or walk away. 9. Basement apartments must be legal If the home contains a basement apartment and the income is important to you, make sure that it legally complies with zoning and the fire code bylaws. If it doesn’t, then all it takes is one complaint from a neighbour and you may be forced to spend thousands

of dollars to make it comply after you buy. 10. Check about your insurance premium early Find an insurance agent right away and if possible, check what it will cost to obtain insurance as soon as you sign your agreement and before you waive any conditions. An insurance agent can check the history of claims in the neighbourhood and can let you know about claims for sewage back-ups or vandalism. This is important information that any buyer should have before deciding to waive their conditions and complete the deal. If you follow these simple steps and buy with your head instead of your heart, chances are you’ll get the house you want at a price you can afford, with no unwanted surprises later. Mark Weisleder is a lawyer, author and speaker to the real estate industry.

Crossword Solution

Call Today 905-575-7700

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

$362,397 $226,990 $204,191 $309,621 $521,194 $514,454 $424,990 $526,904 $486,630 $353,877 $363,323 $377,732 $169,340 $290,954 $314,648 $315,692 $318,143

SUDOKU 6

The Solution

6 4

3 5 6 9 4 8 2

9 3 5 1 2 7 8

7 6 8 2 1 4 9

1 8 2 9 4 7 6 5 3

2 9 8 1 7 4 3 6 5

3 7 5 2 9 6 8 1 4

6 4 1 8 3 5 9 2 7

www. GolfiTeam .com

5 3

Down 1 Shapeless mass (4) 2 Tortilla folded round a filling (7) 3 Trip-inducing substance (12) 4 Talk indistinctly in a low voice — a German mother (6) 6 Thin mortar for filling cracks (5) 7 place promising great wealth (2,6) 8 Spanner (6,6) 12 Online space where people can meet and talk (4,4) 15 Vague (7) 16 Hebrew “ciao” (6) 18 Call to arms — series of strokes (5) 19 Sweet (abbr) (4)

$307,072 $212,232 $187,408 $284,599 $501,650 $555,506 $395,644 $520,481 $454,085 $329,695 $373,503 $345,967 $183,850 $287,044 $286,924 $379,625 $290,333

FREE HOME EVALuATION 905-575-7700 | www.GolfiTeam.com

Across 1 puccini opera (2,6) 5 Wicked and inhuman person (4) 9 Concerned with right and wrong (5) 10 Twice as many (3-4) 11 pattern maker on ice (6,6) 13 Hooligan with a covered head? (6) 14 Innumerable (6) 17 mechanism increasing an engine’s power — brought racer (anag) (12) 20 Sunken source of fuel (3,4) 21 under — Welsh town (5) 22 Sauce — Irish county (4) 23 Forceful — pronounced (8)

39 80 101 162 257 65 31 24 27 90 40 39 5 13 33 6 7

Average Sale Price 2013 2014

Note: Numbers of sales represents sales reported on properties listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) of the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington. Average sale price is calculated by dividing the total dollar volume of sales (not shown) by the number of sales in that month.

(Solution on Page 6)

56 74 83 153 256 49 36 26 33 84 39 38 5 16 19 8 3

Crossword puzzle

Hamilton West Hamilton east Hamilton Centre Hamilton Mountain Burlington Ancaster Dundas Flamborough Waterdown stoney Creek Grimsby Glanbrook Dunnville (61) Caledonia lincoln West lincoln smithville

*seasonal adjustment removes normal seasonal variations, enabling analysis of monthly changes and fundamental trends in the data.

Number of Sales 2013 2014

almost 20 per cent higher than last year, there were considerably fewer condo listings in inventory at the end of the month.” The average price of freehold properties showed an increase of 4.8 per cent compared to the same month last year; the average sale price in the condominium market increased 17 per cent when compared to the same period last year. The average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold in the rAHB market area. Average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends, but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average days on the market decreased from 44 to 38 days in the freehold market and increased from 42 to 44 days in the condominium market when compared to the same month last year. Year to date, listings are 1.9 per cent higher than the same January-toseptember period a year ago. sales are 6.4 per cent higher and the average sale price is 5.5 per cent higher for the period. every community in rAHB’s market area has its own localized residential market.

Areas

he reAlTOrs® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (rAHB) reported 1286 property sales processed through the rAHB Multiple listing service® (Mls®) system in september. This represents a seven per cent increase in sales compared to september of last year. There were 2017 properties listed in september, an increase of 2.3 per cent over the same month last year. end-ofmonth listing inventory was 10.3 per cent lower than last year at the same time. “sales were the highest we’ve seen for the month of september, ever,” said rAHB President Tim Mattioli. “The strong market seen through the summer is continuing into the fall.” seasonally adjusted* sales of residential properties were less than one per cent higher than the same month last year, with the average sale price up 5.3 per cent for the month. seasonally adjusted numbers of new listings were 1.7 per cent lower than the same month last year. Actual overall residential sales were 6.7 per cent higher than the previous year at the same time. residential freehold sales were four per cent higher than last year while sales in the condominium market saw an increase of 19.9 per cent. “The condominium market in particular saw a big jump in sales,” said Mattioli. “With new listings at about the same level as last year and sales being

Page 7

MARKET ACTIVITY in Selected RAHB Areas – September 2014

New Monthly Record Set

October 14, 2014

Fill in the grid above, so that each row of 9 squares, each column of nine and each section of nine (three squares by three) contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any order. There is only one solution for the puzzle and the numbers shown can nOT be changed.

Page 8

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

October 14, 2014

RENTALS FOR LEAsE

hAmILTON

FOR LEAsE

$1,400/mTh

FOR LEAsE

sTONeYCReek

$1,900/mTh

GRImsBY

FOR LEAsE

$2,200/mTh

328 Woodward Avenue

43 Riviera Ridge

7 Vanderburgh Lane

UPDATeD 3 Br BUnGAlOW! Open concept kitch looking into lr & master Br at the back of house. 2 parking spots avail. Close to bus stop, access to the red Hill & QeW. Available for immed. possession. Credit Check, references & letter of employment req’d. Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.

FOr leAse! large 1.5 storey home finished top to bottom. Main floor bdrm w/ensuite, updated kitch, vaulted ceilings & gas fireplce in living rm. Fully finished bsmnt, fenced yard w/lrg deck w/retractable awning. seconds from QeW. Credit Check, references & letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.

OPen COnCePT fully upgraded two storey home. l a r g e eat-in kitchen w/island, 3 large bedrooms. Walking distance to elementary schools and quick access to QeW. Credit Check, references & letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.

FOR LEAsE ED

LEAs

sTONeYCReek

$1,850/mTh

33 Montreal Circle Beautiful home on corner lot w/views of lake Ontario! 4 Brs, 3.5 baths, fully finished basement, gas FP in living rm, oak staircase & seconds from QeW. Credit Check, references & letter of employment req’d. Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.

VINeLAND

$1,450/mTh

GRImsBY

$1,300/mTh

3905 Old Orchard Way

Branthaven Homes

BeAUTIFUl seMI-DeTACHeD 3 BeDrOOM raised ranch in quiet neighbourhood. Quick access to QeW. single car garage with inside entry and sunroom. recently renovated basement. First and last months rent required. Credit check, references and letter of employment. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.

BrAnD neW TOWnHOUse, end unit by Branthaven homes in Grimsby. 1400 a month, utilities inclusive. looking for a mature person/couple.

hAmILTON

$4,400/mTh

1083 Beach Boulevard TrenDY BeACH BlVD – spectacular & luxurious best describes this awesome beauty! executive free hold townhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishes through-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, and oversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington & quick access to QeW. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.

LEAs

FLAmBOROUGh

$1,675/mTh

40 Woodhill Road nICelY renOVATeD. Updated kitchen with quartz counter top, hardwood floors, main floor laundry and bathroom, beautiful yard and hot tub. Big house, big property. All new appliances. Minutes to Dundas. 1-4 year lease, rental app, credit check and notice of assessment needed.

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October 14, 2014

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

rob Golfi*

BURLINGTON

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

$1,799,999

hAmILTONmTN

$369,900

6195 Milburough Line

52 Courtland Avenue

ClAssIC GeOrGIAn COlOnIAl MAnOr with picturesque tree-lined private driveway. Featuring gleaming hardwd, entertainers kitchen, stunning great room with 14 ft ceiling, and custom millwork and trim thru-out. Upstairs you will find 4 spacious bedrms all featuring their own ensuite, as well as bedroom level laundry.

Gorgeous one flr in desirable location on the Mountain! 3+2 Brs, 3 full baths, beautiful lr & Dr w/French doors. roof 2014, Furnace 2008, Deck 2011, Alarm system, inground sprinkler system, main floor ldry rm. Fully finished basement w/2 lrg Brs, potential for in-law suite w/sep. side entrance!

$7,189per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,477per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

Page 9

$449,900

CARLIsLe

$899,900

hAmILTONWesT

$479,900

BURLINGTON

$609,900

25 Cline Avenue North

3191 Renton Road

Beautiful 3+1 bedroom home in Westdale! Custom kitch/granite counters/refinished hardwood floors, landscaped yard, interlocking patio. Furnace, C/A & HWT in 2010, updated plumbing stack, sewer line relined, spray foam insulated in back rm crawl space, completely re-wired to code 2010, new roof 2013.

FAnTAsTIC neIGHBOUrHOOD! Updated 3 Br home in Headon Forest area! Open concept lr/family rm, eat-in kitch, master w/ensuite & walk in closet. Priv. fenced in yard w/new patio. Upgrades: new hardwd & tiling throughout, new windows, new furnace, new C/A, new water heater. roof replaced in 2009.

$1,917per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$2,436per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

hAmILTON

$269,900

hAmILTON

$279,900

45 Bellagio Avenue

13 Elderberry Lane

187 Sanford Avenue North

51 Callie Road

3 bedrm 1 year old home with a ton of builder’s upgrades. stunning kitchen, engineered hardwd & upgraded ceramics. loft area features a bright skylight. Home is across from park & close to shopping, schools & highway access

GreAT InVesTMenT OPPOrTUnITY! Currently set up as a 3 unit home. Updates include furnace, water heater, and roof (2011). Potential rental income: Basement unit $750, Main unit $950, Upper unit $1200.

PrIMe MOUnTAIn lOCATIOn, 10++! Windows and doors main floor 2013, high efficiency furnace, kitchen cabinets upgraded, granite counter, freshly painted, refinished hardwood 2014. Bathroom updated. nice lot w/detached garage. side entrance for in-law potential. Quick close available.

$1,797per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

$474,900

180 Montreal Circle 4 bedrm multi-level home complete with hardwood & ceramics, vaulted ceilings, marble & Corian countertops, upgraded kitchen with loads of cupboards, and completely finished basement w/extra full bathrm. Double car garage, backing onto ravine. Get your clients inside. $1,897per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

$217,000

618 Barton Street, Unit #3 CleAn & BrIGHT TOWnHOUse in great location! new carpet throughout, neutral décor, eat-in kitchen, master bedroom with walk-in closet and 3 pc ensuite, and finished basement. Updated windows and shingles and quick access to highway. $876per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,078per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,594per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

hAmILTON

$199,900

$1,118per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

hAmILTON

$284,900

hAmILTON

$299,900

113 Cameron Avenue North

78 Lorraine Drive

113 Munn Street

PrIMe HAMIlTOn eAsT lOCATIOn!! Hamilton`s newest hot location, used as two family, some recent updates furnace/C/A 2012, shingles, baths 2006. rear three car parking with easy access from street. Two bedrooms on main floor & one bedroom with living room (vacant) were getting 750.00/month w/utilities included.

GreAT MOUnTAIn lOCATIOn! This 3 bedrm, 2 bathrm bungalow is great for potential rental income. Interlock driveway and walkway w/great landscaping, fully finished basement w/side entrance including gas fireplace, full eat in kitch connecting to fabulous 4 season sun rm & hardwd flrs throughout.

lOCATIOn rOCks!! sit on your deck and watch your kids in the park, amazing value in this large home. loads of updates! Updates include windows, kitchen, shingles 2013, and beautiful exterior stucco. large bedrooms in upper level, double drive with big garage and walk-out from kitchen to deck and yard.

$1,098per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,198per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$798per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

$699,900

28 South Meadow Crescent lAVIsH FrOM TOP TO BOTTOM! Custom built, elegant home boasts pride of ownership throughout. This 2 storey home sits on 54x145 ft lot and features family size kitchen w/granite counters & butler pantry, showcase fireplace in family rm. stamped concrete drive & patio w/oversized dbl garage. $2,795per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

sTONeYCReek

$198,900

hAmILTON

$269,900

511 #8 Highway, Unit #208

367 East 28th Street

GOrGeOUs 2 bedrm terrace condo in prime stoney Creek neighbourhood. The balcony can be accessed from both main floor & master bedroom. Hardwood floors in living room, bedroom level laundry, eat-in kitchen, well located in a small 21 unit complex. Close to Hwy access, bus, school, parks and all amenities. All appliances included.

$794per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

WATERFRONT

sTONeYCReek

$479,900

hAmILTONeAsT

$949,900

BRANTFORD

$129,900

sTONeYCReek

$399,900

35 Chianti Crescent

1087 Beach Boulevard

342 Dalhousie Street

3 BeDrOOM, 2 sTOreY HOMe. Open concept living with hardwood and granite floors, vaulted ceiling, crown moulding. Basement with games room, wet bar and 4 pc bathroom. Patterned concrete, gazebo w/ fireplace & covered patio.

location rocks!! short bus ride to Wilfrid laurier Campus. Convenient location for Tenants. Both units occupied on month to month. side parking and huge backyard. $475 + hydro/water upstairs and $650 + hydro/water downstairs. seller pays gas and water heater rental.

BeAUTIFUl esCArPMenT VIeWs! Prime location on ridge road, close to all amenities. This property has a home suitable for renting or building your dream home. Buyer to satisfy themselves with building permits & costs.

$519per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,597per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$1,917per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

$3,794per/mthP&I/O.A.C.

723 Ridge Road

Call Today 905-575-7700

Page 10

The GoLfi TeAM Real Estate Market Watch

October 14, 2014

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Grimsby Branch

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Centre on Barton Branch

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Beamsville Branch

1187 Barton Street East | 905-547-6202

2 King Street West | 905-528-6391

4520 Ontario St. | 905-563-0822

Rymal Road Branch

Stoney Creek Branch (Opening Fall 2014)

Vineland Branch

2176 Rymal Road East | 905-692-3597

259 Queenston Road

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3370 King St. | 905-562-7373