MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 1
February 15, 2011 - Vol 24b
P R E S E N T E D
B Y
T H E
G O L F I
T E A M
FIND US ON:
NEW LISTING Stoney Creek Mountain $674,900 Bungalow on 2 acres
Rob Golfi Sales Representative
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
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 2
Page 2
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
About Rob Golfi
S
ince the inception of his career in 1997, Rob Golfi has 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 in 2003, the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, his SRES® designation in 2009 and the Diamond Club Award in 2010. Having worked with
by: Rob Golfi
many of the industry’s professionals 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, extensive marketing 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
SUDOKU 8 2 5 4
7
9
3
3
8 2
4 5
selling very quickly, which bodes well for the move-up-buyer who is poised to make the jump they’ve been holding off, due to the job security fears over the last couple of years. Approaching the market cautiously is always a smart move, but we are not seeing any signs that this rebound, which started in the last quarter of 2009, is not carrying forth in 2011. Household debt has been rising dramatically in recent years which is concerning if interest rates rise, even marginally. But, for those in good financial shape, BUY - BUY - BUY! -Å
Maximum Exposure Sells Your Home
www.golfiteam.com 2
8
I
nterestingly enough, even though we had our best December in more years than we can remember the average sale price across Hamilton stayed stagnant at $203,000 mark. In January, Grimsby sales were down from $324,000 to $295,000 and Lincoln’s also decreased due to lower sales volumes, from $267,000 to $236,000. Stoney Creek sales were also down, from $309,000 to $272,000 due to a shortage of homes currently on the market. The spring market though has started off quite well. Anything priced right and prepared right is
905-945-0188
6
1
Spring Market Off to a Good Start for Home Buyers
Call the Golfi Team to get your Home Sold
7 1 5
February 15, 2011
The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada.
4 3 9
6 9
5 4 7 1
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.
“With mortgage rates an an all-time low, why did the little pig have to settle for a house made of straw?”
www. GolfiTeam .com
9
6
4
2
1
7
7
8
2
5
3
9
5
1
6
4
8
3
3 8 5 4 6 1 9 7 2
2 1 9 6 7 4 3 8 5
5 3 6 1 8 2 7 9 4
4 7 8 9 3 5 2 1 6
7 9 2 3 4 6 8 5 1
1 5 4 2 9 8 6 3 7
8 6 3 5 1 7 4 2 9
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 3
February 15, 2011
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
Page 3
Grimsby, Lincoln & West Lincoln Area
Rob Golfi*
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O St. CatHarIneS $179,900 198 Dorothy Street
WeSt LInCoLn $329,900 9407 Silver Street
WeSt LInCoLn $249,900 1786 Victoria Avenue
Stoney Creek $674,900 1217 Green Mountain Rd. E.
Beautifully maintained freehold townhouse w/maintenance free exterior brick & siding, features 3 BRs w/ensuite, ceramic tiles in foyer & dining room, new shingles in ‘09, & close to shopping & busses. Home has pride of ownership!
Amazing updated home on 100 x 200ft lot, built in 1953, has an open concept LR/DR w/hrdwd flrs, huge master suite, New high eff gas furnance/CA, updated main bath, entry doors, & water conditioner. Bonus rm over the garage.
Country living at its best sitting on over an acre of private treed lot in fantastic location. Features cathedral ceilings, oversized family room with fireplace, country style kitchen with plenty of cupboards, fully finished basement.
Custom built open main flr 2300sqft. 3 bdrm bungalow sitting on 2 acres of gardens, features gorgeous designer kit w/breakfast bar & granite counters, vaulted ceilings in great rm w/showcase fireplace, beautiful Brazilian cherry hrdwd flrs, spa inspired ensuite,
If you want it
SOLD Call Rob Golfi 905-575-7700 or visit
www.RobGolfi.com
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O GrImSBy $249,900 65 Hemlock Way
GrImSBy $179,900 13 Sacks Avenue
GrImSBy $299,900 17 Colonial Crescent
Gorgeous Losani built town home features beautiful designer maple kitchen with breakfast bar, and showcase fireplace in living room. Master bedroom has luxury ensuite and walk-in closet. 3 bedrooms and oak staircase. Close to parks, schools and QEW access.
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.
Attractive 4 level back split in quiet escarpment survey. Porcelain tiles, oak eat-in kitchen, vaulted ceilings in LR/DR, main flr laundry, gas fireplace in family room, newer furnace, humidifier & central air, along with new windows, doors, & shingles.
Scan this code to view more info on our listings!
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
Go to www.4qr.ca on your mobile phone to download your free scanner. Text "GOLFI" to 123411 to view our listings on your mobile phone.
BeamSvILLe $239,900 5120 St. George's Drive Immaculate freehold townhome, open concept w/vaulted ceilings, 2 skylights & den/office, great rm w/gas FP. Fin rec rm, Cal shutters, main flr laund & ceramics. Upgrades bamboo hrdwd in LR, deck, shed, countertop, sink & faucet.
Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!
The
Call today!
905-945-0188
FontHILL $634,900 23 Timbercreek Crescent Stunning 4 bdrm, 3300 sqft Executive on exclusive street. Built 4 yrs ago & features hardwood and porcelain floors, granite countertops, 60 interior/11 exterior potlights, main flr den can also be a formal living room. In-law suite w/sep entry plus endless list of upgrades!
WaTerFrONT
NeW HOMe
BeamSvILLe $228,900 5141 Conner Street
WeSt LInCoLn $324,999 7574 Highway #20
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.
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).
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
GrImSBy
$1,490,000 143 Lake Street
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!
GrImSBy
$299,900 63 Griffith Drive
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!
11 acreS
BeamSvILLe $259,900 4498 Ontario Street
GrImSBy $289,900 33 Debora Drive
BeamSvILLe $459,900 4276 Maple Grove Road
SmItHvILLe $279,900 16 Lindan Street
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.
Spacious raised ranch in impeccable condition 3+1 Bedrms, 2 baths, on large 61 x 125 ft lot across from private park, updates include new windows, new furnace & central air, finished bright basement, walk to downtown, 1 min to QEW
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.
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.
Call Today 905-945-0188
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 4
Page 4
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
February 15, 2011
Commercial Rob Golfi*
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O BeamSvILLe $1,199,900 4485 King Street
BeamSvILLe $499,900 5532 King Street
BeamSvILLe $249,900 4993 King Street
Stoney Creek $349,900 19 King Street
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.
Location, Location this 2.5 Storey commercial building w/high traffic & visual exposure zoned CA-1 permits 29 uses, ideal for doctors, lawyers, accountants, mortgage, real estate office. Approx 1,335 sq.ft. on main flr, plus 1,500 sq.ft apartment on 2nd & 3rd flr, plenty of parking.
January 2011 Housing Starts OTTAWA, February 8, 2011 — The seasonally adjusted annual rate1 of housing starts was 170,400 units in January, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). This is up from 169,000 units in December 2010. According to final figures, actual housing starts for 2010 totalled 189,930 units, with activity moderating towards demographic fundamentals by the final quarter of 2010. “Housing starts moved slightly higher in January because of an increase in rural starts,” said Bob Dugan, Chief Economist at CMHC’s Market Analysis Centre. “Single-detached and multiple starts showed a moderate decline.” The seasonally adjusted annual rate of urban starts decreased by 1.7 per cent to 146,900 units in January. Urban multiple starts moderated by 1.5 per cent in January to 82,900 units, while sin-
Free Down Payment
gle urban starts moved lower by 2.0 per cent to 64,000 units. January’s seasonally adjusted annual rate of urban starts decreased by 19.0 per cent in the Prairie Region, by 7.9 per cent in British Columbia, and by 1.0 per cent in Québec. Urban starts increased by 13.3 per cent in Atlantic Canada and by 10.3 per cent in Ontario. Rural starts2 were estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 23,500 units in January. As Canada's national housing agency, CMHC draws on 65 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of high quality, environmentally sustainable and affordable homes. CMHC also provides reliable, impartial and up-to-date housing market reports, analysis and knowledge to support and assist consumers and the housing industry in making informed decisions. -Å
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. 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. 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.
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. 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. 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 905-575-7700. -
Scan this code to view more info on our listings! Go to www.4qr.ca on your mobile phone to download your free scanner. Text "GOLFI" to 123411 to view our listings on your mobile phone. The
Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!
Call today!
905-945-0188
Slow Start to New Year
T
h e R E A LT O R S ® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) reported a total of 613 units sold in the association’s jurisdiction* in the month of January, according to Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) statistics released today. This represents a seven per cent decrease in sales from the same month last year. “January is typically a slow month for sales, but this past January was slower than normal” said Ann Forbes Arndt, RAHB President.
The number of residential properties sold during January totaled 585, and included 458 freehold properties and 127 condominiums. Commercial sales for January, including industrial, farm, vacant land and business, totaled 28 units. The average sale price of freehold residential properties in the association’s jurisdiction in the month of January was $317,011, an increase of 9.4 per cent over January, 2010. The average sale price reflects the dollar volume of freehold
residential sales divided by the number of total freehold residential units sold. In the condominium market, the average unit price was $229,383, a decrease of 2.2 per cent from the same month last year. “I said earlier this year that the real estate market should stabilize through 2011 and perform much as it did in 2010. That said, the real estate market is still dependent on other economic factors, so we are cautious in our optimism that we
are headed toward a stable, balanced market,” added Arndt. Figures quoted are for sales and average sale prices of units located in the jurisdiction* of the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington and processed through RAHB’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®). Unit sales reflect “all property types” including residential, condominium, com mercial property, farm, vacant land and business, unless otherwise specified. -Å
Call Today 905-945-0188
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 5
February 15, 2011
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
Page 5
Hamilton & Stoney Creek Rob Golfi*
Stoney Creek $209,900 2-618 Barton Street
Stoney Creek $474,900 17 Gumwood Place
Immaculate home shows like a dream! Beautiful decor, hrdwd & ceramics throughout, bright kit w/ceramic backsplash, in-law suite down stairs w/full bath & mini kit, master suite w/walk in closet & ensuite, updated windows & shingles.
4+1 BR home on a mature Executive Crt. Close to amenities. Hrdwd flrs, master BR w/ensuite & walk-in closet. Main flr ldry, eat-in kit, DR, LR, family rm w/gas FP. Finished basement w/games rm, bdrm, 3pc bth, & rec rm w/wet bar.
Stoney Creek $674,900 1217 Green Mountain Rd. E. Custom built open main flr 2300sqft. 3 bdrm bungalow sitting on 2 acres of gardens, features gorgeous designer kit w/breakfast bar & granite counters, vaulted ceilings in great rm w/showcase fireplace, beautiful Brazilian cherry hrdwd flrs, spa inspired ensuite,
ONe acre
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
HamILton moUntaIn $210,000 98 David Ave. Incredible value in this 3+2 bedroom, brick bungalow, featuring a finished rec-room, hardwood under Berber carpet, mostly vinyl windows, furnace & central air updated 2002, long concrete drive, close to busses and shopping.
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
BInBrook $1,129,900 2228 Guyatt Road
HamILton eaSt $299,900 2 Renis Court
HamILton eaSt $129,900 46 Adeline Avenue
WeSt HamILton $299,900 82 Bowman Street
Trillium award, country estate home minutes from the city. 3 fireplaces, 4+1 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, vinyl windows, custom drapery & california shutters, wrap-around porch. Finished basement with potential in-law suite and refrigerated wine cellar. Steel shingles w/50-year warranty.
3+1 bdrm all brick bungalow will take you by surprise. Upgrades include designer maple kit, hrdwd flrs, porcelain tile, crown moulding, hotel style bathroom, California ceilings, updated vinyl windows, shingles ‘06 & more.
First time buyers! Good location close to highways, schools & park. Great starter home w/2 bdrms, living room w/gas fireplace, updated kitchen & bathroom. Renovations done to make bathroom & master bdrm larger. Parking for 3 cars & a great backyard!
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!
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O moUnt Hope $252,000 59 Critzia Drive, Unit 312
Stoney Creek $219,900 503 Highway #8, Unit 19
Stoney Creek $264,900 24 Puritan Court
Stoney Creek mtn $309,900 36 Hillcroft Drive
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.
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.
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.
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.
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
WInona $359,900 328 Winona Road
HamILton eaSt $164,900 119 Fairfield Avenue
HamILton eaSt $214,900 19 Scotia Avenue
eaSt HamILton $169,900 37 Strathearne Ave.
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.
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!
Renovated in Rosedale! New kitchen w/crown mouldng, unique backsplash, breakfast bar & blt-in wine rack. New hardwd & furnace, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 200 amp, in-law potential, concrete drive, huge lot! Near parks, schools, golf course & escarpment stairs.
Charming one floor bungalow, beautiful gleaming hardwood floors, finished basement with 3 pc bath, concrete drive and patio, oversized detached garage, fridge, stove, washer & dryer included, close to bus route and shopping.
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
D SOL ER TH ANO NE O
eaSt HamILton $284,900 85 Bow Valley Drive
HamILton eaSt $159,900 43 Blair Avenue
Stoney Creek $439,900 46 Second Road West
BInBrook $379,900 218 Tanglewood Drive
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.
Large lot, fully fenced yard & parking for 5! Shingles 2009, fence 2007, Vinyl windows, hrdwd flrs, updated kitchen, renovated bath, finished rec room. Beautiful bay window off dining room. All appliances included. Quiet east end location near the Red Hill Pkwy.
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.
Quality built 2400 sq ft. Located in Jackson Heights, in the heart of Binbrook, this 4 bdrm, 2 storey home has many upgrades. Hardwd floors in family room & dining room, solid maple staircase. Upgraded ceramics, kitchen & backsplash, cove mouldings, painted in decorator colours, upgraded light fixtures.
Call Today 905-575-7700
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 6
Page 6
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
FAMILY DAY FUN
February 15, 2011
Framing your Basement Walls by: Joe Keca Home Improvement Group
At the first sign of a school break, kids have loads of energy. Make the most of your free time and plan some adventures with your family. Take advantage of ontariotravel.net and its great online tools to make your getaway special! For lots of event suggestions happening this winter, check out my blog at www.RobGolfi.com for a link to the family fun calendar.
Below are some ideas of things to do with the kids for upcoming holidays and school breaks. Whether it's a one-day adventure, or a few days of thrill-seeking, there's no place like Ontario for fun! School Break IdeasSchool Break Ideas FAMILY DAY WEEKEND - Family Day is February 21, 2011 Enjoy a break from the everyday reconnect with your loved ones, and make family fun your number one priority! Winterlude, Ottawa, February 4-20, 2011 Welcome to the greatest snow on earth! Skate on the Rideau Canal, the largest skating rink in the world, play in a huge snow playground, and spot some awesome snow and ice sculptures! Bon Soo, Sault Ste. Marie, February 4-13, 2011 Chill out at the largest winter carnival in northern Ontario - there are over 75 events going on for the whole family. Play to your heart’s content on the winter playground, with dogsled rides, snow slides, and much more fun to be had! Family Day Activities at Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, February 21, 2011 Bring the whole family to Toronto's harbourfront for an afternoon of skating on the NatrelTM Rink. Family Day Weekend at Casa Loma, Toronto, February 20-21, 2011 From ghost tracking to knight training, there are plenty of cool activities at Casa Loma this year at Casa Loma. There will even be a 'Dora the Explorer' scavenger hunt. Kids-Fest, Toronto (and Hamilton), February 19-21, 2011 Are your kids full of beans? They won't be after a day at Kids Fest, Canada's largest indoor inflatable show.
Bouncing is allowed! Family Day Arctic Adventure, Aurora, February, 21, 2011 Both kids and parents will have a ball in Aurora on Family Day. There will be loads of outdoor activities, as well as live entertainment, treasure hunts and more. Toronto Zoo Family Day Program, Toronto, February 21, 2011 Come visit the animals and learn about some of their family trees. Our Family Day program will include fun facts about zoo families in many of the indoor exhibits. Winterfest, Markham Museum, February 21, 2011 Celebrate Family Day with outdoor fun, lots of cool activities, crafts and snacks. Family Day Weekend at the ROM, Toronto, February 19-21, 2011 Celebrate Family Day at the Royal Ontario Museum with special hands-on crafts and activities, all included with museum admission.
Family Day at Billings Estate National Historic Site, Ottawa, February 21, 2011 Spend the day having fun with your family at this National Historic Site. Try snowshoeing, take a sleigh ride and roast marshmallows in front of a bonfire. Warm up inside with some heritage activities and crafts. Family Day in Hamilton, Halton and Brant, Hamilton, February 21, 2011 Family Day coincides with Heritage Week this year, so why not celebrate both. Various family-friendly events are taking place at some of this regions wonderful heritage venues, including the Children’s Museum, the Dundurn Castle, Griffin House and the Westfield Heritage Village. Family Days at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, Cambridge, February 19-21, 2011 Do something you've probably never done before - hug a bug! Come to the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory on Family Day weekend this year and take part in the insect petting zoo. Check my blog for links to all these Destinations at www.RobGolfi.com. -
First, if you are planning to have a warm and comfortable basement, perimeter basement walls should be framed using 2”x4” construction, just like the interior walls. By using 2”x4” studs on the perimeter basement walls insulation can be installed to ensure a warmer room. If warmth is not a priority, and the installation of drywall is still required on the perimeter basement walls, then furring strips can be attached to the perimeter walls instead. Furring strips usually consist of 2”x2”s that are glued and nailed to the concrete basement walls. Internal Wall Framing The internal walls can be built on the ground and then simply raised in place, however due to inevitable variations in basement floor heights the walls should be built slightly shorter and then shimmed into place. If this is not done, you may have some difficulty raising the wall as it may get wedged between the floor of the basement and the ceiling/floor joists. Also, if the home is built on clay soil the basement floor may move slightly up and down based on the water content in the ground. If the home is built on clay soil, then you should use LShaped steel framing clips to attach to the walls and the first-floor floor joists. These clips will enable the walls to breath (move up and down), but give the support necessary to ensure the wall remains vertical. When building basement walls there are typically many obstructions (pipes, duct work) that you need to build around. Thus, it is sometimes easier to stick build walls around these types of obstructions. Stick Build Framing To stick build walls, first nail a top plate perpendicular to the floor joists. Next, secure a bottom plate to the concrete floor using concrete nails and an adhesive such as Liquid Nails. Make sure you use pressure treated lumber on the bottom plate as it is in contact with the concrete and will wick moisture over time. The top and bottom plates should be parallel to each other. Use a plumb line to ensure they are parallel. Finally
install 2’x4” studs every 16” along the plates. Make sure you measure for each stud prior to cutting, as the floor to ceiling distances will vary. Boxing in Ductwork Soffits may need to be built if ductwork needs to be boxed in or if planning to install interior lighting. Soffits are not structural and thus can be framed using 2”x2”s. Similar to any wall framing, use two parallel 2”x2” plates and connect them using vertical stud members. Secure a 2”x2” top plate to the floor joists and then stick nail in a 2”x2” stud on both ends of the top plate. Next nail the bottom plate to the two studs to create the basic wall. Finally, install on 16” centers, 2”x2” studs along the entire length of the plates. Pending the situation you may need to build the same framing structure on the other side of the ductwork. Once you have completed the second soffit wall simply install 2” x 2” cross member stud pieces (lookouts) between the two soffit wall sections. You will want to make sure you use a chalk line and a level during this task to ensure the soffit walls remain straight. Again, as the soffit is being stick built, measure every stud prior to cutting. Framing the Ceiling If drywall is to be installed on the ceiling then you may need to add effectively a horizontal wall. Basically the same process is done as with building soffits, however 2”x4”s are used for providing clearance for pipes hanging below the floor joists. If there are no pipes or wiring hanging below the floor joists, then 1’x3” strapping may be able to be used. Simply nail them perpendicular to the floor joists on 16” centers. Joe Keca is a specialist in complete building and interior renovations with the Home Improvement Group. He can be reached at 905309-5555.
Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation
Call Rob Golfi today! Rob Golfi, Sales Representative
905-945-0188 / 905-575-7700
Call Today 905-575-7700
-
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 7
February 15, 2011
The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch
The Home Staging Process by: Sheri Gamble Details Event Coordination Inc.
In today’s real estate market, home staging is quickly being recognized as the fastest, most inexpensive and profitable solution for selling your home. Staging is rapidly becoming a necessity when selling your property, especially in today’s sluggish and competitive real estate market. However, some homeowners are still are confused about how the “staging” process works. First step! Call the stager. They will make an appointment with you to complete a personal “walk through” of your home. They will focus on improving the property to make it appeal to the largest number of buyers by transforming it into a welcoming, appealing and attractive product for sale. Most stagers will include in their consultation fee a written list of recommendations and suggestions to improve the look of the home and maximize it’s value. Next step is to put those suggestions into action. Stagers understand the necessity to move quickly and will provide customized pricing to complete the tasks. Some stagers will price per hour, while others per individual job. Experienced stagers will outline costs throughout the entire process and will help you stick to your budget. Professional home stagers are “bargain hunters”. They will source unique and unusual furniture and decor for your home that will immediately transform a
room. Many home stagers partner with “handymen” that can complete minor repairs, update paint colours, replace broken fixtures or tiles etc. It is “one stop shopping”! By fixing these items before putting the house on the market gives the prospective buyers the feeling the home is in “tip top shape” and “move in” condition, therefore maximizing it’s value. Stagers offer a multitude of options to complete the process. They can work entirely with the homeowner’s personal items and furniture yet recreate the entire look of the home. Or they can purchase new “impact” pieces to give the property an updated “punch” and polished flair. If necessary, rental furniture is often used to showcase “scale appropriate” furniture choices and identify rooms. The homeowner makes whatever decision best suitable for them and finally the professional home stager will work within the guidelines to target the most likely buyers and get the home sold! It’s simple! Call a home stager to help. You’ll be amazed at the results! Sheri Gamble is a Home Stager and Event Planner with Details Event Coordination. She can be reached at 905.632.2602 or via email at sheri@detailseventco.com Visit www.detailseventco.com. -
Page 7
Canadian Mortgage Changes by: Sue Ippolito RBC Mortgage Specialist
On January 17th , finance Minister Jim Flaherty announced three new changes to the rules for government insured (default insured) mortgages. The intent of these changes is to support the long-term stability of the housing market and address rising household debt in Canada. New Changes to Default Insured Mortgages 1) Lowering the maximum amount consumers can borrow when refinancing their mortgages This change will lower the maximum mortgage amount to 85% of the appraised value of the property from the current 90%. This change will help to promote savings in homeownership and ensure that homeowners don’t become overextended by using all the equity they have built up in their home when refinancing. 2) Reducing the maximum amortization period for new government insured (default insured) mortgages The maximum amortization for all new default insured mortgages will be reduced to 30 years from the current 35 years. This change will help reduce total borrowing costs for consumers, helping them to build up equity more quickly.
3) Withdrawing government insurance backing on lines of credit secured by homes: effective April 18. No impact to RBC as we do not currently participate in this product. The effective date of the first two changes will be March 18. If you purchase a home and have an approval by CMHC and the bank prior to March 18th it will still qualify . under current guidelines if it closes after the effective date. (Note: certain conditions will apply) These changes only apply to default insured mortgages. If you have 20% down payment you can still apply for a 35 year amortization. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving to a new home, renewing or switching your existing mortgage to RBC,you can count on your mortgage specialist for the advice you need. We can help you choose the best rate, term and options for you. Guarantee your rate for up to 120 days. CALL ME Sue Ippolito is a Mobile Mortgage Specialist with the Royal Bank of Canada. She can be reached at 905 648-8567 Fax: 905 648-8571, email, sue.ippolito@rbc.com or website, http://mortgage.rbc.com/sue.ippolito
MenusOnly.com is an online restaurant menu guide connecting you with great restaurants in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. Browse through restaurant menus, view pictures of restaurant dining areas, patios, and menu items, and print local restaurant coupons all in one place. MenusOnly.com – a perfect dining experience starts here.
Roll your Home Improvment Costs into your Mortgage 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. 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 pay-
ment for the renovations. Benefit from lower interest rates. 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 renovations. 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
www. GolfiTeam .com
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. -
MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 8
ed
T Includ
S HST & G
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
REGISTER ON-LINE NOW! MODEL HOME
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)