Dec. 1, 2010 Issue 16 by The Real Estate Market Watch

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December 2010 - Vol 22

P R E S E N T E D

B Y

T H E

G O L F I

T E A M

Happy Holidays to All! from The Golfi Team!

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

Sharon Stafford Sales Representative

Heather Reid Sales Representative

Hans Marcelissen Sales Representative

Wendy Murray-Nicholson* Sales Representative

Ashley Sidler Sales Representative

Dena Zlatar Office Manager

www.GolfiTeam.com

Rosemary Fournier Listing Co-ordinator

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The GolfI Team Real Estate Market Watch

About Rob Golfi

ince the inception of his career in 1997, Golfi has Rob recognized that understanding his clients’ needs is essential to providing excellent service. As business grew, Rob assembled the Golfi Team in an effort to maintain the same level of professionalism clients have come to expect. Shortly thereafter in 2003, the team received the prestigious honour of being among the top 100 Real Estate Teams for RE/MAX Canada, and this status continues to date. Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills have earned him every major honour awarded by RE/MAX, including President’s Club, 100% Club, Platinum Club, Chairman’s Club, Hall of Fame, the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006 and the SRES® designation in 2009. Having worked with many of the industry’s professionals

by: Rob Golfi

over the years, he has the necessary edge to best negotiate the sale of your home. Any agent can list your house, but Rob’s knowledge, marketing extensive background and dedication gives clients peace of mind when dealing with the single most important investment in their lives. With years of combined experience, the Golfi Team can provide your home with a level of exposure that most agents cannot. Utilizing a team approach also means that they will likely find a purchaser to buy your home sooner, rather than waiting for other agents to approach you with potential buyers. Ranked in the top 5 of nearly 2,000 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington and Niagara areas, listing with Rob and the Golfi Team is the right choice when choosing someone to represent your best interest. -Å

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December 2010

Title Insurance: Protecting Your Biggest Investment While Canadians are quick to list a decent mortgage rate, home insurance and a yearly furnace inspection as key considerations in helping them sleep better when it comes to their home, many do not consider protecting their biggest investment with a title insurance policy. What exactly is title insurance? You may have heard about it in the media, as it is considered an inexpensive and effective way to cover a number of risks that are related to the “good title” of your property. In order to explain title insurance, it is necessary to explain what “title” is. When you buy a home, you are in effect buying the title to the property, which is commonly referred to as a “deed” or “transfer of land”. This means that you own the property and your lawyer/notary has registered you as the owner in a land titles system. You want to have good title because it means that you will be able to sell your property in the future or obtain financing against your home at any point. To protect your ownership, a title insurance policy provides coverage in the event that your right of ownership is challenged or a loss occurs due to a covered title defect or a claim against your property. When considering if you should include title insurance as part of your real estate purchase, the following is important information that you should know: Top Benefits of Title Insurance • Fast and efficient closing process – title insurance will help ensure your transaction closes on time • Survey coverage – protects against unmarketability (not being able to sell your property in the future or obtain

financing against your home) as a result of defects that would have been disclosed on an up-to-date survey, Real Property Report or Location Certificate • Fraud and forgery – protection against fraudulently registered mortgages against your title • Duty to defend – the legal fees associated with resolving insured title issues will be covered • Building permit coverage – coverage for renovations completed without a permit that result in a loss • Zoning coverage – protection should a property not meet municipal zoning requirements • Competing interests – protection in the case of someone claiming an interest in your land; for example, an easement for a driveway or a builder’s lien • Problem solving/facilitates closings – we can frequently provide coverage for known defects such as encroachments, delays in registration and zoning violations • Saving money – requesting a homeowner title insurance policy at the time of your real estate purchase may be the best opportunity for you to buy your policy at a lower price. If your lawyer/notary is ordering a policy for your lender, you can buy a homeowner policy at a lower cost! For more information on how you can include title insurance as part of the purchase of your home, ask your lawyer or notary about First Canadian Title’s homeowner’s coverage and enjoy the peace of mind that results from the protection of a title insurance policy. For more information, contact First Canadian Title 905.287.1000 or 1.800.307.0370 www.firstcanadiantitle.com

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The Solution 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.

“I’m looking for something in a split-level, three bedroom Tupperware.”

www. GolfiTeam .com

1 4 9 6 8 2 7 5 3

4 3 1 9 6 8 2 7 5

2 9 7 5 4 1 3 6 8

6 8 5 2 7 3 4 1 9

9 2 6 8 5 4 1 3 7

8 1 4 3 2 7 5 9 6

5 7 3 1 9 6 8 2 4

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Grimsby Rob Golfi* 93 acres

GRIMSBY $189,900 Affordable & Adorable

$184,900 GRIMSBY 3 Bedroom Semi

GRIMSBY $239,900 Bungalow on Huge Lot

$649,900 GRIMSBY 5 Minutes to Down Town

Affordable freehold townhouse w/escarpment views boasts 3 bdrms, 2 full baths, eat-in kit w/oak cabinetry & ceramic backsplash over looking fenced yard w/patio, & fin. rec-rm in basement. Freshly decorated, updated shingles, close to park & schools, quick access to QEW.

Cute semi in a great neighbourhood close to parks & schools. Nice corner lot! 3 bdrms, two full baths, finished rec-rm w/gas fireplace, & open concept on main flr. Fantastic opportunity for any buyer to aquire in Grimsby.

Well maintained & priced to go! Situated on a large mature lot plus recent upgrades incl. windows, siding, soffits, facia, eaves trough, furnace & baths. Oak cabinets in kit, hrdwd flrs on the main level, reno’d lower lvl. Dbl paved drive holds 4 cars. Pool & 6 person hot tub (07).

“WOW” Rare find! 93 acre farm only 5 minutes to Grimsby and QEW. Work shop 18.4 x 36 ft. and Barn 37 x 70 ft. 80 acres of workable land, 13 acres of bush, well maintained home with updated shingles, windows, beautiful hardwood flrs, finished basement

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O

GRIMSBY $244,900 Freehold Townhome

GRIMSBY $159,900 Great Investment Opportunity!

GRIMSBY $1,999,900 Grimsby’s Finest Luxury Estate

1465 sqft custom home built by Losani, with gorgeous kitchen w/brkfst bar & stainless steel appliances, showcase gas fp w/mantle, & California shutters mostly thru-out. Prof painted plus bdrm level laun, roughed-in bath in bsmt, access to fenced back yard through garage.

Great opportunity for any buyer or investor! Come and see this affordable 2 bedroom home with attached garage on a 75 x 125 ft private lot. This home features hardwood floors, large kitchen with lots of room for eating area, and spacious laundry room, new shingles 2008.

This fine property shows like a dream. Seated on 4 acres of lush landscape and backing onto Niagara Escarpment. This amazing 6500 sq ft estate features main floor master suite, multimedia control centre, gourmet chef’s kitchen & 4 additional large bedrooms.

GRIMSBY $227,900 Spacious End Unit Outstanding & immaculate town home beautifully finished throughout. Features great open concept design w/over sized sun filled living rm, oak kitchen w/sliding doors to private patio, finished basement, & quick access to QEW

Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!

The

Call today!

905-945-0188

GRIMSBY

$359,900 Only the Best!

Completely updated & renovated inside and out. New furnace & central air (08), oak mahogany kitchen with granite & stainless appliances, updated baths, Japanese cherry hardwood, custom oak wet bar, heated & insulated 3 car garage with 220 amp.

GRIMSBY $679,900 Grimsby Historical Home Historical, solid stone home backs onto Niagara Escarpment. Remodelled to preserve its charm and modern conveniences. Beautiful kitchenl, mirco cabinets, island, granite counters. Bridal staircase, wood plank floors, original Georgian fireplace, 4+1 bedrooms, double car garage.

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O GRIMSBY $1,499,900 Fabulous Lakefront

GRIMSBY $299,900 Big Home, Small Price

GRIMSBY 234,900 Charming 3 Bedroom Bungalow

GRIMSBY $299,900 Inviting 1,500 sq.ft. Home

Fabulous waterfront property! Custom built 3000 sq ft home with Lake views every room. Maple hardwood floors, granite counters, master suite with access to back deck, ensuite and walkin shower. Handicap adaptable!

Custom built 2000 sq.ft. home with plaster construction and an unbeatable floor plan, gorgeous hardwood floors, oversized sunken family room, new furnace, new shingles in 2009, beautifully landscaped on oversized 75 x 133 ft lot.

Situated on spacious treed lot on quiet cul-desac, beautiful gleaming hardwood in bedrm, sun filled living room with floor to ceiling bay window, fin’d bsmt w/full bath & spare bedrm. Fenced yard. Close to schools, parks & quick access to QEW.

Completed top to bottom with professionally finished basement. Spacious eat-in kitchen, dinette, cozy front porch with Escarpment views, patterned concrete drive, patio, private treed yard. Very desirable neighbourhood. Quick access to QEW!

Selling Grimsby, Home by Home

Call Today 905-945-0188

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December 2010

Hamilton & Stoney Creek Rob Golfi*

$324,900 EAST HAMILTON Prestigious 3+1 Bedroom Tudor

STONEY CREEK $219,900 Immaculate Executive Townhome

$379,900 HAMILTON CENTRAL Charming Classic Home

$314,900 WEST HAMILTON Close to McMaster

Nestled on top of cul-de-sac on private pie shaped lot, window lined back of home for incredible back yard views, spacious kitchen with island & bay window, fully finished basement, updated shingles, quick access to Red Hill and close buses and shopping.

Located in secluded complex w/plenty of visitor parking. Sunken LR w/gas FP, gorgeous hardwood flrs. Bright fully finished basement. Attached only at garage, close to all amenities & easy hwy access.

Classic 3+1 bedrm home, kit w/plenty of cabinets, elegant dining rm, master bdrm w/gas fireplace, lrg walk in closet, skylights & ensuite w/whirlpool tub, prof. fin’d basement, located in a very quiet exclusive neighbourhood.

Great investment -- walk to McMaster, updates include new furnace (07), new shingles (02), hardwood floors, all new appliances, new driveway, carpet, ceramic floors in kitchen. rental income $1750/month, tenants pay utilities!

MOuNT HOpE $262,900 Adult Lifestyle Condo

STONEY CREEK MTN $309,900 4 Level Backsplit

STONEY CREEK $264,900 In-Law Setup

HAMILTON EAST $174,900 Larger than it Looks!

Condo in Twenty Place. Features 2 bedrooms, hardwood, ceramics, Califormia Shutters, 2 walkouts to outdoor covered balcony. Don’t miss out! Access to Clubhouse with pool, whirlpool, gym, tennis courts, underground parking & large storage locker.

Charming 8 yr old, all brick, 5 level backsplit. This home is finished top to bottom & features kitchen overlooking family room w/showcase fireplace, leading to backyard concrete patio & fence yard, finished basement w/rec-room, & 2 full baths.

2 Storey all brick home with in-law set up in basement with separate entrance, hardwood in living/dining rooms & family room, beautiful oak kitchen cabinets, large fenced yard with patterned concrete patio, mostly vinyl windows, shingles are 5 yrs new.

3+1 bdrm home w/a side drive, garage, & screened in back porch, includes hrdwd flrs, bright white kit, freshly painted, LR & a great flr plan. Dry basement, Weeping tiles installed 9 yrs ago. Close to all amenities. Come see!

WINONA $359,900 Large Home with 3+1 Bedrooms

HAMILTON MOuNTAIN $189,900 Great Starter Home

MOuNT HOpE $459,900 Prestigious 2000 sq.ft Bungalow

EAST MOuNTAIN $244,900 3+1 Bedrooms

Easy access to the QEW, shopping,and schools. Large kitchen with island & granite counters. Vaulted ceilings, pot lighting, california shutters. Inside garage entry with main floor laundry. Fully fenced back yard. Large master, his/her closets & ensuite with corner soaker tub.

Pleasant 3 bedroom brick, 1½ storey home close to schools, shopping & buses. Features vinyl windows, hardwood floors, furnace '01, finished rec room in basemnt, new shingles '09. Fantastic for first time buyers. Make it yours!

10 yr old bungalow will take you by surprise! Features grand foyer, hardwood floors, incredible kitchen with granite & ceramics, vaulted ceilings, crown moldings, main floor laundry, professionally finished basement with showcase fireplace. Professionally landscaped!

Across from Lawfield school. 3+1 bdrms, 2 baths & 2 kitchens plus in-law suite. In-ground pool with deck, hardwd flrs on main level under carpet. Upgraded windows (’09) & exterior door (’10) Furnace & shingles (’07). Spacious rec room w/gas fireplace & lots of room for storage.

STONEY CREEK $449,900 3 Bedroom Gem

STONEY CREEK $339,900 Beautiful 2 Storey

EAST HAMILTON $284,900 3 Bedroom Raised Ranch

Waterfront!! Rare gem, 3 bedroom loaded with character, restorations underway! New kitchen (09), living room with beamed ceiling & pine plank floors throughout! Balcony with sliders from all 3 Bedrooms upstairs, amazing lakeviews!

Features hardwood floors through out most of home, great room with gas fireplace and vaulted ceilings, professionally finished basement, landscaped with fenced yard, concrete double drive with garage!

Immaculate 3 bedroom with fully finished basement. Spacious living room and dining room. Eat-in kitchen has been updated and boasts ample counter space and cupboards. Updated vinyl windows, concrete drive and patio in fenced yard.

WaTerfronT

STONEY CREEK $424,900 Fabulous Family Home Fabulous 2 storey 4+1 bedroom home! Large lot, backs onto park. Above ground pool, large eat-in kitchen, dining room, family room w/gas fireplace and separate living room. Master w/ensuite +3 bedrooms on upper level. Main flr laundry, double garage, & finished bsmt with 5th bedroom.

WaTerfronT

STONEY CREEK $479,900 Custom Built to Perfection

STONEY CREEK $339,900 Get There First!

BEAMSVILLE $439,900 5 Bedrooms!

STONEY CREEK $599,900 Exclusive Waterfront

3+1 Bedrm w/gourmet kitchen & granite cnter tops, travitn flrs, sunken fam rm w/fp & hrdwd in bdrms. Plus California shutters, crown mlding & cathedral ceilings. Upgrades incl. furnace & central air (08), pool heater & liner (09) newer windows, fascia & eaves.

4 bdrm home only 18 months old built by Mattamy homes at Fifty Point in fantastic condition. Features 9 ft ceilings on main flr, great room, beautiful plush carpets, bdrm level laundry, large windows & rough-in bath in basement.

Oh my gosh, best value for this great 5 bedroom, 5 level back split, sitting 100 x 152 ft lot. Everything is done -- all you have to do is move in. Features gorgeous hardwood floors, beautiful Florida room, showcase fireplace, perfect for growing family, fantastic location close to all amenities.

Waterfront! Rare find on private lane close to Fifty Point Conservation area. 101ft of waterfront, park like setting and solid 3 bedroom bungalow. Substantial breakwall, well treed mature lot, amazing sunrises and sunsets included!

Call Today 905-575-7700

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Lincoln & West Lincoln Rob Golfi*

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O $228,900 BEAMSVILLE 2 Storey Freehold Townhome

$259,900 BEAMSVILLE Residential / Commercial

$879,900 BEAMSVILLE 9.2 Acres on Bench

$279,900 BEAMSVILLE Oversized Lot!

1386 sq.ft. Features include great sized bedrooms with 3 pc ensuite and walk in closet off of master. Kitchen overlooking spacious family room, attached to neighbouring unit at the garage.

Ideal for Home Business. Impressive 4 bedroom, 4 level back split sitting on 60' x 150' lot. Features hardwood floors, updated windows, shingles ('06), furnace ('03), garage door & opener ('08), 2 fireplaces, walkout from lower level, 20' x 22' garage.

Prestigious 9.2 acre 1900 sqft home on bench of Niagara Escarpment overlooking Beamsville & Lake Ontario. Dark stained oak hardwood flrs, showcase fireplace in living room, main floor den, family room, & long circular drive. Shingles, furnace and central air 8 yrs new.

Beautiful home on oversized “L” shaped lot. 4 spacious bdrms, 2 full baths recently reno’d, sun-filled liv/din rm w/cathedral ceilings & gas fireplace/ Plus hardwd & berber carpet, mostly updated vinyl wndws & shingles (’03), deep garage, oversized deck in private back yard.

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O BEAMSVILLE

$459,900 11 Acres

Raised ranch on 11 acres, built in 1993, finished in-law apartment with walk out, spacious kitchen with plenty of counter space, shingles one yr, furnace 3 yrs, well maintained home in the heart of wine country.

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O

WEST LINCOLN $349,900 Location! Location!

BEAMSVILLE $209,900 Spectacular 4 Bedroom Semi!

BEAMSVILLE Local Escape

2+1 bedroom fully reno’d & with modern kitchen, cherry wood cabinets, ceramic, cathedral ceilings, adjoined fam room. Thick carpeting in all principal rms & main bath w/whirlpool tub. Dbl side drv, fin bsmt (’06) incl. rec rm, kitchen, bedrm & laundry, 25 yr roof (’04), furnace (’03).

Great neighbourhood! 1700 sq ft of living space plus finished rec room in full basement. Bright eat-in kitchen with large bay window plus spacious living & dining room. Huge master with ensuite potential. Situated on a large, mature, fully fenced lot.

Clean and well cared for mobile home, open concept w/recent updates! Newer shingles, flooring & pantry. Spacious living room & kitchen w/cathedral ceilings. Current park fee $261/mth incl. water, garbage, sewer & snow removal.

$52,000

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O BEAMSVILLE $279,900 Oversized Lot! Beautiful home on oversized “L” shaped lot. 4 spacious bdrms, 2 full baths recently reno’d, sun-filled liv/din rm w/cathedral ceilings & gas fireplace/ Plus hardwd & berber carpet, mostly updated vinyl wndws & shingles (’03), deep garage, oversized deck in private back yard.

Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!

The

Call today!

905-945-0188

SMITHVILLE $289,900 Incredible Value Here! Prestigious 2 storey built in ‘06 on fantastic size lot, features spacious kit w/granite counters & breakfast bar, beautiful hardwood throughout, a sun-filled living room, large bedrooms, ensuite privilege off master, main floor family room, walk out from bsmt to fenced yard.

3.4 acres

SMITHVILLE $284,900 Newly built Bungalow ’07

FONTHILL $469,900 Custom Built Beauty!

FONTHILL $649,900 4 Bedroon Executive

Loaded with upgrades. Stylish kitchen w/brkfst bar, sun-filled family rm w/showcase fireplace, master w/hotel style ensuite includes a soaker tub & shower. Main flr laundry/mud room offers access to dbl garage, plus basement w/fruit cellar and fully fenced yrd! Avail Immediately.

3800 Sq ft of living space in this large 4 level backsplit. 4 yrs new & features a stunning maple kitchen w/granite & centre island, vaulted ceilings in LR/DR, open concept family rm w/ wet bar & fireplace, large master w/ vaulted ceilings & luxury ensuite.

Stunning 4 bdrm, 3300 sq ft Exec on exclusive street. Blt 4 yrs ago & fts hrdwd, porclain flr, granite countertops, 60 interior/11 exterior potlights, main flr den can also be a formal living rm. In-law suite w/separate entry plus endless list of upgrades!

pELHAM

$484,900 Country Living

Unique 3 bedroom on 3.4 acres. Large kitchen with new ceramic, living room, main floor laundry & hardwood floors. Aged cedar lookalike metal roof w/lifetime warranty. Outbuilding w/loft. Plus more!

D SOL ER TH ANO NE O BEAMSVILLE $1,399,900 26.6 Acre Farm on Lower Bench

BEAMSVILLE $499,900 Commercial Building

BEAMSVILLE $249,900 Prime Commercial

BEAMSVILLE $209,900 Spectacular 4 Bedroom Semi!

Over 700 ft of frontage on Niagara's busiest wine route. 26.6 Prestigious acres on the lower bench with over a 20ft fall from front to back of property. Property consists of a large barn with 2 cold storages, heated workshop and parking area. 3 residential detached homes on property.

Zoned light industrial, consists of building plus 4 Bedroom century home sitting on approx 3 acres located on Regional Rd 81 on wine route, with good traffic. Property has 6000 sq.ft steel frame building on concrete slab with 2 washrooms, 220 volts.

Downtown core storefront with large window, front and back entrances can suit 2 businesses or 1 large one. Rear parking and municipal lot. New furnace, 2pc bath. 1800 sq ft of business space with GC zoning, plus 2 bedroom apartment on upper level.

Call Today 905-945-0188

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December 2010

Neat Solutions for an Organized Closet

s our lives become busier and busier, we sometimes feel we are losing control of our space, time & lives. Getting organized allows you to reclaim that control, and become more focused and productive. When we associate disorder with lack of space, our negative mindset leads us to feel that this clutter is unavoidable. Often, the stress and wasted time of searching for things at the last minute are more the result of poor planning rather than limited space. You can regain control regardless of the amount of space that you actually have in your home. The kitchen, garage and closets create the most stress on a daily basis. The kitchen, by its very nature, at least has some basic flow and order built into its design. The garage on the other hand, is a vast space devoid of any structure, but that’s a whole topic on its own for another day. Lastly, the closet

is an area that is accessed multiple times during the day, and having an organized closet can be a real time saver, especially during those busy mornings. The challenge is getting started, and keeping the system in place. You need to start by decluttering. Take a careful inventory and consider giving away those items you no longer need. Now you’re ready to start thinking about innovative storage solutions. An organization professional can help you with a comprehensive space plan. Yes, even closets have “prime” real estate space for items used most frequently. A custom system ensures that your entire space is utilized to its fullest potential. Each project should be customized to your particular needs, because your closet, like your clothes should be a perfect fit. Neat Organization Solutions is a local company that specializes in custom closet and office organization systems. Their goal is to help determine your

storage needs and design a system to meet those needs with style and budget in mind, and transform unused areas into productive and enjoyable spaces. They can utilize a number of different tools to help you in visualizing the various possibilities, and then using only superior quality products and professional installation will complete the project with minimal disruption to your home and your life. Properly designed, a closet can yield twice the storage space without physically increasing dimensions of the closet. The rewards can be quite profound. An organized life is a less stressful life, and the extra time created means more time for yourself, your loved ones or the activities you truly enjoy. There is also a cost savings to organization. Not only are you avoiding buying duplicates of things you cannot find, but if you spend 30 minutes each day searching for keys, receipts etc,

Roll your Home Improvment Costs into your Mortgage

The Roofing Process: The Basics

What is a Purchase Plus Improvements Mortgage Program? This mortgage program allows homebuyers with 5% down payment to finance improvements to their newly purchased property immediately after taking possession without requiring a separate loan or line of credit.

by: Joe Keca Home Improvement Group

How do I benefit from this mortgage program? Find your dream home sooner. Make custom renovations and upgrades to make your hone just right for you. Enjoy the convenience of having one mortgage payment and not a mortgage payment plus a loan or line of credit payment for the renovations. Benefit from lower interest rates.

While no two roofing jobs are exactly alike, all share one basic premise: when completed it cannot leak. A roof system is designed to shed water, but it takes the right materials and careful workmanship to build a roof that is durable and leak proof. Start with a solid deck made of plywood, OSB sheathing, or 1x6 boards; any wood that is not sound must be removed and replaced before you begin roofing. If you live in a snowy climate, plan for an ice and water barrier, which is an asphaltbacked plastic membrane that stops leaks at the eaves. Next come asphalt paper, the drip edge, the shingles (with flashing and counter-flashing as needed), and the hip and ridge caps. All combine to make your roof impervious to water. Roofing jobs require attention to detail. When properly installed, a quality roof can last the life of a home. Installed improperly, a roof can cause a wide range of problems. Estimating the Project Whether you hire out or do it yourself, the first step is to measure the roof and estimate the materials. Roof area is

calculated by dividing the total area into rectangles and squares. Roofers generally add another 10 percent for simple roofs, and 15 percent for roofs with hips and valleys. The shingles themselves are sold by the “square,” which is 100-squarefeet. Eighty shingles will cover one square. Make sure, however, to add the 10 to 15 percent “waste” allowance. You’ll also need four nails per shingle (six in tornado or high wind country). These are sold by the pound. Asphalt roofing paper and eaves membrane are sold by the roll, but measured in lineal feet. Flashing can be purchased in rolls or in pre-folded squares. Valleys typically require 16-inch-wide flashing, while dormers and sidewall junctions use one 6x6 or 8x8 inch square of step flashing per course of shingles. Don’t forget to add extra shingles for hip and ridge caps, along with drip edge and ridge vent. Now you have a fairly clear idea of what your roof will cost, minus the labor. Joe Keca is a specialist in complete building and interior renovations with the Home Improvement Group. He can be reached at 905-309-5555.

that’s an entire week of time each year that could be used more productively! For those of you currently considering listing your homes, it is imperative in today’s market to prepare your home by highlighting its best features. Having properly appointed closets, pantries or laundry rooms can help achieve a faster sale and often at a higher price. It helps to showcase the homes potential for comfortable living, and makes the home appear more spacious and luxurious. Potential buyers connect with a home through the feelings and emotions a home stirs in them. As another year comes to an end, we often think of what we will resolve to do better in the new year. Whether for yourself or someone you love, the gift of organization is one that will truly keep on giving in so many ways for years to come. Organized Solutions 905-906-9068 www.neatorganizationsolutions.com -

How does this mortgage program work? During the buying process you will obtain a quote from each contractor for the cost of the specific renovations. Your mortgage amount and mortgage default insurance premium is based on the "as improved" value of the property. Your 5% down payment is based on the "as improved" value rather than the initial purchase price. The entire mortgage proceeds including the cost of the renovations are advanced to the solicitor. The solicitor holds back the cost of the reno-

vations. Once the renovations are complete, the mortgage advisor will order an inspection from a residential appraiser. The appraiser confirms the renovations are complete. The solicitor is then advised to release the held back funds. The solicitor gives you a draft for the amount you financed for the renovations. Down Payments Example: Purchase Price = $200,000 / Renovation Cost = $20,000. New As Improved Value = $220,000. 5% down payment based on As Improved Value = $11,000 instead of $10,000 which is based on $200,000 purchase price. What are the limitations? 20% of the initial purchase price or $40,000 as long as the renovations increase the value of the home. Any additional costs will be reviewed on a case by case basis. Are there any extra fees? The inspection to confirm the renovations are complete cost $150 - $200. All rates and insurance premiums are exactly the same as a standard purchase with 5% down payment. For more information on the Purchase Plus Improvements Mortgage Program and how it could help you buy your home sooner, please contact the Golfi Team at 905-575-7700.

Free Down Payment What is a Free Down Payment Mortgage Program? First time homebuyers and those who do not have sufficient down payment for their home purchase are eligible for a free down payment mortgage program. Fixed rate closed terms mortgage with a 5 year term.

What are the limitations? A minmum beacon score (credit score) of 650 is required. This program applies only to owner occupied single family or duplex units.

How do I benefit from this mortgage program? Don't wait to save up your 5% down payment before purchasing a home. You can purchase now without a down payment.

Are there any extra fees? The mortgage default insurance premium is 2.90% of the mortgage amount instead of the standard 2.75% with 5% down payment from your own resources. Client pays the full posted interest rate for the 5 year term rather than the discounted rate.

How does this mortgage program work? The lending institution provides a down payment equal to 5% of the property lending value. They will advance these funds directly to the solicitor on the closing date.

For more information on the Free Down Payment Mortgage Program and how it could help you buy your home sooner, please contact the Golfi Team at 905-5757700. -

Call Today 905-945-0188

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The GolfI Team Real Estate Market Watch

Home Staging During the Holidays

Holiday Shopping Season – Are you Ready?

by: Sheri Gamble Details Event Coordination Inc.

by: Sue Ippolito RBC Mortgage Specialist

er redeeming them for store gift cards or merchandise that can be given as gifts without spending a penny. RBC Visa Gift cards – Hard to find for? – consider a RBC Visa gift card – it can be used anywhere Shop on the Net – Look for Verified by Visa: Mastercard SecureCode when shopping online. Register a password, only you can use your card for online. Purchase Security and Extended Warranty Insurance – Use your credit card that includes extended Purchase Security Insurance, which insures against lost, theft or damage. When considering purchases on credit, keep in mind the difference between good debt (i.e., creates value, such as a home or education) and bad debt (i.e., no potential to increase value). Be cautious about incurring bad debt that you can’t pay off in the near-term. Evaluate whether purchases are really important in your overall family picture. Have a long-term goal in mind to balance with your family’s short term needs. HAVE A SAFE & HAPPY HOLIDAY

Do you make a budget for holiday spending? Do you stick to it? Or do you…and your budget…get unglued with each passing day? See if your intentions this holiday season match up with other consumers. With the holiday season nearing, a recent RBC Poll found that many consumers plan to temper their spending with one third of Canadians (31%) and almost half of Americans (46%) saying they will spend less on holiday expenses this year. One in five (18%) of Canadians indicate they will not give gifts at all this year and 6% of American families plan to spend nothing at all on holiday shopping. In Canada, consumers expect to spend about $1,137 on the holidays including gifts, decorations, entertaining and travel. The majority (63%) of respondents plan to fund their holiday cheer with savings, while onein-five plan to use credit cards. Another 20% are not sure how they will pay for the season. The survey also found that a third of time crunched Canadian gift givers (35%) plan to do their holiday shopping online this year. Many of us will also be putting both our debit and credit cards to use. Here are a few tips to keep in mind, courtesy of my RBC colleagues in credit card services: Cash in Points – If you’ve collected reward points that haven’t been used, consid-

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Sup Ippolito RBC Mobile Mortgage Specialist 905-648-8567 sue.ippolito@rbc.com

Selling your home during the holiday season can be stressful enough, but what do you do about staging and decorating to ensure a quick sale? During the holiday season a special feel is in the air and a potential buyer will be thrown off if your home is shown exempt from all holiday decor. First impressions start at the front door. Adding a simple but lovely wreath to your front door or at each side of your entryway can do wonders. Use less of your ornament collection this year. Don't over-crowd your rooms. You want your buyers to see your home’s features. Rooms filled to the brim with decorations stop the buyer’s eyes from visualizing their own furnishings in your home. The smaller the square feet of the home, the less decor you need to use. Keep it simple. A full sized tree may create a cramped room and inhibit traffic flow. You may want to consider a smaller tree this year, or one placed on a table top. Be careful not to cover every surface with your decorations. Leave some open

spaces to give rooms a sense of spaciousness. Sometimes a poinsettia or two is just enough. Holiday home staging decorating doesn’t always have to be expensive. Ball ornaments for instance always look fresh. You can dress the tree, create clusters or put them in bowls – they’re a lowcost, high impact solution. Good holiday decor is about the wow factor; you don’t need expensive, precious ornaments. Buy one colour and lots of it! Houses do sell all year long. If you're selling your home during the frantic holiday season, taking a few extra home staging steps can make a big difference in your sale. HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Sheri Gamble is a Home Stager with Details Event Coordination. She can be reached at 905.632.2602 or via email at sheri@detailseventco.com Visit www.detailseventco.com -

Statistical Comparisons Year from January 2010 to October 2010 Units Listed

Active at End

Units Sold

Total Dollar Sales

Median Price

Average Price

List Sell Ratio

Residential & Condominium

16,442

35,431

11,250

$3,500,371,992

$278,800

$311,144

68.4223

Residential

13,369

29,090

9,032

$2,983,225,080

$292,884

$330,295

67.5593

3,073

6,341

2,218

$517,146,912

$221,446

$233,159

72.1770

Farm

176

684

$34,560,700

$509,121

$508,246

38.6364

Vacant Land

510

2,960

139

$32,527,916

$151,728

$234,014

27.2549

Business

943

4,866

258

$100,095,714

$328,344

$387,968

27.3595

18,071

43,941

11,715

$3,667,556,322

$279,720

$313,065

64.8276

Condominium

Total

Year from January 2009 to October 2009 Units Listed

Active at End

Units Sold

Total Dollar Sales

Median Price

Average Price

List Sell Ratio

Residential & Condominium

14,569

35,566

10,887

$3,153,054,014

$261,853

$289,616

74.7272

Residential

11,788

28,838

8,744

$2,680,292,701

$274,016

$306,529

74.1771

2,781

6,728

2,143

$472,761,313

$212,223

$220,607

77.0586

143

726

$32,373,200

$477,617

$490,503

46.1538

Vacant Land

429

2,540

$20,522,300

$172,176

$241,439

19.8135

Business

896

4,668

270

$96,421,990

$286,603

$357,118

30.1339

16,037

43,500

11,308

$3,302,371,504

$263,029

$292,039

70.5119

Condominium Farm

Total

Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today! Rob Golfi*

905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188

www. GolfiTeam .com

MarketWatch December 2010 V2_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 25/11/10 10:40 AM Page 8

ST HST & G

d Include

OWN THIS FOR ONLY

$864 MONTHLY

MONTHLY P&I* PAYMENT BASED ON 5% DOWN

OUTSTANDING FEATURES

STYLISH 2-STOREY & BUNGALOW TOWNS NESTLED WITHIN A BRAND NEW COMMUNITY PARK!

t 063 45"/%"3%4 "3& .045 BUILDERS UPGRADES t 0/-: #-0$,4 0' 508/4 AVAILABLE t -6963: &/46*5&4 t 42 '5 t %&4*(/&3 KITCHENS

SITE HOURS: Mon,-Thurs 1-5pm Sat-Sun 1-5 pm Fri by appointment

1-289-566-9528

905-945-0188 www.homesbycambridge.ca

The bi-weekly P.I. payment, based on 5% down, and a purchase price of $228,000 works out to $864 MONTHLY, (based on 5 year term, 35 year amortization)