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February 20, 2012 - Vol 36a
P R E S E N T E D
B Y
T H E
Rob Rob Golfi Golfi Sales Sales Representative Representative
HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION
905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188
G O L F I
T E A M
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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Crossword Puzzle
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
February 20, 2012
(Solution on Page 6)
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
Across
Down
1. 1 Disconcert (4)
1. 1 Most unclear (8)
2. 3 Vital pre-mobile communications facility? (5,3)
2. 2 Of a region (5)
3. 9 Suited to polite society (7)
4. 5 Maritime (5)
4. 10 Strong drink (5) 5. 11 Cove (5)
5. 6 Upright support found in sleeping chamber (7)
6. 12 Jaundiced — yolk (6)
6. 7 Internal "photo" (1-3)
7. 14 Powerful mainframe hardware (13)
7. 8 Quarter — subdivision (6)
8. 17 Merged (6)
9. 15 King or emperor? (7)
9. 19 Clean —finish off (3,2)
10. 16 Spot (6)
10. 22 Rejoice greatly (5)
11. 18 Everything added together (5)
11. 23 Defamation (7)
12. 20 Vexation (5)
12. 24 Capital of Hawaii (8)
13. 21 Absolutely! (4)
3. 4 LA's natural amphitheatre (9,4)
8. 13 Hit crypt (anag) — painting (8)
13. 25 Network (4)
SUDOKU 4
7 5
6
1
4
6 7
1
2
8
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9 7 1 8
3
5
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9 2
7 8
6 8
5 6
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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.
“This home practically pays for itself. It’s located on a very windy street, next to an ATM machine!”
www. GolfiTeam .com
8
7
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5 6 2 4 7 8 9 1 3
9 8 4 1 3 5 2 6 7
1 2 7 8 6 9 3 4 5
6 3 5 2 4 7 1 9 8
4 1 6 5 2 3 8 7 9
2 5 9 7 8 1 4 3 6
3 7 8 6 9 4 5 2 1
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February 20, 2012
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 3
Facts About the GOLFI TEAM… 3 Over $60 Million in Sales Annually** 3 #1 Real Estate Office in Hamilton-Burlington* 3 Amongst the Top Sales Reps in Ontario** 3 Ranked Top 50 Teams in Canada for ** 3 Ranked Top 100 Teams world wide**
1998
Rob Golfi Sales Representative
2003
2003
2006
2010
OVER $460 MILLION IN REAL ESTATE SALES *#1 Brokerage in the Realtors Association of Hamilton Burlington MLS from 1994 to 2010 consecutively. **Year End Standings for 2010, based on residential commissions paid. Rankings are compiled from figures submitted by regional offices.
LOOK WHAT WE'VE SOLD! FOR D SOL
IST L OF % 5 . 99
IN D L SO
AYS D 7
SOLD
YER U B NTO O R O TO T
D SOL
AYS D 9 IN 1
Stoney Creek $389,900 181 Montreal Circle
Stoney Creek $279,900 34 Regis Court
Stoney Creek $299,900 121 King Street East
haMilton Mtn $299,900 65 Princeton Drive
Gorgeous, all brick, 2250 SqFt classic 2 storey. Features quality upgrades & includes 9ft ceilings, family sized great rm, big formal dining rm, stylish kitchen w/lots of cupboards & granite, gleaming hardwd flrs, extra deep lot all fenced in, & a roughed-in bath in basement.
Great location on quiet court. This charming, fenced 4 lvl back split sitting on 150 ft deep lot. Large country size kitchen overlooking family room with gas fireplace, beautiful hardwd in living & dining room, Master with ensuite, new shingles ’05, close to shopping, schools & buses.
Bring your tool belt and make this your dream home! Fantastic opportunity on large L-shaped 77.83 x 142.60 foot lot! 1.5 Storey all brick home with partially finished basement. Close to all amenities and walking distance to downtown Stoney Creek. Make an offer!
This all brick, oversized 4 level backsplit in Sherwood heights neighborhood is available for immediate possession! Features updated vinyl windows, updated shingles, beautiful hardwood & ceramic floors, second kitchen in lower level, great in-law potential, sun-room, & fence yard.
O DT L O S
R UYE B ASH C OUT
Caledonia $249,500 21 Orkney Street West 2 Sty, 3 BR home in a mature neighbourhood. Features lrg DR, LR w/gas FP, lrg eat in kit, Hardwd flrs, 3 good sized BRs & 4pc bathrm, lrg deck. Upgrades incl. a new 14x30 detached garage, new fencing, new driveway, roof ‘07, C/A ‘07, & most windows replaced.
FOR D SOL
GET YOUR HOME SOLD TODAY! 905-575-7700 R UYE B H CAS Y OM T D SOL
E RIC P L FUL
AYS D 16 N I D SOL
AYS D 0 N3
TI
IS OF L % 8 OR 9 F D SOL
St. CatharineS $249,900 61 Croydon Drive Charming home takes you by surprise! Updated birch kitchen w/granite counters, hardwd throughout main flr, mostly updated vinyl windows, new shingles 08, new furnace & C/air 05, finished rec-rm w/new Berber carpeting & showcase gas FP, updated bathrm in basement.
AYS D 29 N I D SOL
SMithville $274,900 122 Golden Acres Drive
Stoney Creek Mtn $279,000 129 Slinger Avenue
BeaMSville $219,900 5455 King Street
haMilton $149,900 101 Cope Street
Immaculate, oversized 1350 sq.ft. backsplit! Fin. basement, beautiful hardwood floors, bright kitchen with oak cabinets leads to side yard with 2 tiered deck, spacious family room with fp, master bedroom w/French doors to balcony, fenced yard w/gorgeous perennial gardens.
Charming raised ranch. Beautifully landscaped, ideal for growing family. Features new stylish kitchen with pantry & breakfast bar, hardwd flrs in front room & hallway. Enjoy lounging in the fully finished basment w/bedroom & bathroom. Close to amenities & schools.Call 905-575-7700.
Will Not Last. Exciting opportunity with this 3 bed bungalow. New carpet in living room, dining room, hallway and bedrooms. Home features a generous living room and eat-in kitchen. Let the kids run in the oversized backyard.
BIG 1.5 STORY on a great street in the East end of Hamilton. Old world charm, big front porch, wide driveway, good size garage and backyard, mud room in the back for storage or play area. Walk to school and major bus line, shopping nearby. Hardwood under carpet in big living and dining room. Basemt laundry and storage. Quick closing.
Call Today 905-575-7700
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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Rob Golfi*
February 20, 2012
Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook
haMilton $196,900 37 Ferrie Street West Pride of Ownership in this 3 bedroom 2 storey family home. This home offers a large LR & separate DR, newer carpeting & a private back deck. Updates incl. renovated kitchen ('09), Windows ('08), flooring on main level ('09), roof ('10), & updated electrical w/100 amp service.
Stoney Creek $274,900 194 Millen Road
Stoney Creek $549,900 132 Millen Road
haMilton eaSt $92,400 399 Fairfield Avenue
Old world charm w/modern conveniences. Beautifully renovated 2-storey with maple hardwood & ceramics on main flr. Family-sized maple kitchen w/tumbled marble backsplash & pot lighting. Large Master w/rich hotel style ensuite & W/I closet. Fresh paint, vinyl windows.
AWESOME BEAUTY. Completely updated, hardwd flrs, kitchen w/maple cabinets, granite counters, bathrms updated, crown moulding, spiral staircase, exterior has all new eaves facia & soffits, new shingles, new siding with stone skirt, fenced yard, undergrd sprinkler system.
Spacious 1 BR bungalow! Incl updated kitchen w/lots of counter space, fenced yard, new roof shingles & high efficiency furnace (gas on equal billing $66.00 month!), 100amp on breakers, big rear deck w/awning, A/C, big bathrm & lots of storage in bsmt. Can be 2 BR if needed. Shows great!
haMilton Ctr $134,900 86 Rosemont Avenue
haMilton eaSt $189,900 34 Barons Avenue
RENTAL
haMilton Mtn $299,900 956 Stone Church Road East
haMilton Mtn $1,700/Month 87 Mountain Park Avenue
Well maintained home, clean as a whistle and updates galore. Immaculate backsplit, could be used as in-law w/entrance to lower level from garage and side door. Skylight in kitchen, neutral colors throughout. Huge lot. Concrete deck and walkways with interlock driveway.
Lease property. Prime Location on Mountain Brow over looking the city with amazing views. Close to hospitals, public transit, highways and all amenities. Credit Check, Rental application required for all offers, tenants pay all utilities. One year lease required. Easy to show.
Clean, bright & immaculate 3 bedrm all brick 2.5 storey home avail for immed possession. Features updated kit. cabinets, spacious living & dinning rm w/neutral colour ceramics, 2 pc bath in basement with 2nd kitch, private side drive, fenced in yard, close to busses & shopping
Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!
The
Call today!
905-575-7700
3 or 4 bedroom home w/highway access, schools & shopping nearby. Loads of updates, some newer windows, roof 2011, furnace & tank 1998, main bath remodelled & new bath in basement. Fully fenced yard w/gate at driveway. Rear patio & big shed.
haMilton WeSt $339,900 260 Bay Street S., Unit 2 Gorgeous Durand area condo! Only 3 units in this building, part of 86 Herkimer conversion. Separate garage, locker in bsmt. Access to roof top terrace in 86 Herkimer. Shows 10++ w/upgraded fixtures, cabinets, counters, lighting, window treatments, & appliances.
haMilton $299,900 292 Delancey Boulevard
Stoney Creek $189,900 518-500 Green Road
haMilton $114,900 294 Emerald Street North
Stoney Creek $419,900 35 Ivybridge Drive
Beautiful 4 BR, 2 stry home. Features family rm w/sliding door to yard, separate DR, ceramics in kit, 2.5 baths, master BR w/ensuite, laminated flrs, unspoiled bsmnt, & dble garage & drive for 4 cars. Updates incl. windows & shingles in ‘10. Close to amenities.
Beautifully maintained and upgraded suite with breathtaking views from windows and balcony. Features new furnace & c/air system, new 800 series doors, freshly painted, amenities include pool, gym, sauna, library, work shop, squash courts, locker #14, and a parking spot.
Live mortgage free! With the upstairs apartment rental of $625/mth your mortgage is paid. Freshly painted w/shingles 4 yrs old. Separate entrance to all floors. Parking for up to 6 cars in the back. Owner occupies main floor, with boarder in the basement.
2400 sq ft. home overflowing w/upgrades incl. 9 ft ceilings, hardwood flrs, loaded kitchen w/granite counter tops, formal dining rm, slate floors, crown moulding, spiral staircase, showcase gas fireplace, 4 large sunny bedrms, rich hotel style ensuite bath, main floor den, bedrm level laundry, backing onto green space with pond.
haMilton Mtn $379,900 23 Vineberg Drive
haMilton Ctr $104,500 18 Francis Street
Over 2000 sq ft., 4 level backsplit! Family room w/fireplace, big kitchen w/oak cabinets & island, vaulted ceilings in LR/DR, open from kitchen to family rm, big rooms & walkout to covered patio w/3 year old hot tub. Turner park, shopping, & YMCA all within walking distance.
Big home w/loads of updates, great private yard w/concrete patio, big fully fenced garden with shed, room for a big RV & 3 car parking. Home shows great. Close to General hospital. 100 amp breakers, new shingles in 2009 (stripped), new windows, siding, furnace and central air in 2008.
haMilton Mtn $314,900 202 Winston Place Walk to Mac!! All brick 3+3 bedroom home! Newer shingles, new windows, Hi eff furnace & C/Air (07), oversized water heater (05), newer plumbing & water line. Bsmt waterproofed, smoke detectors handwired, Ethernet/cable in all rooms! $2100 income per month tenants pay utilities.
Stoney Creek $274,900 326 Jones Road Large duplex on 100 x 150 ft lot. Two 3 bdrm units plus professionally finished 1 bdrm in-law suite in basement. 1.5 car garage & parking for up to 10 cars with multiple street access. Huge private fenced backyard. Great investment opportunity! Incredible income potential!
Call Today 905-575-7700
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February 20, 2012
Rob Golfi*
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 5
Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara IN-LAW SETUP
WATERFRONT
GriMSBy
GriMSBy $255,000 15 Adelaide Street
St. CatharineS $147,900 45 McGhie
GriMSBy $549,900 34 Golf Woods Drive
$1,499,900 143 Lake Street
Fantastic Investment Opportunity, Duplex within the downtown core. 2 bedrm unit on main level & 1 bedroom unit on upper level. Gross income of $1885/mth. Includes large double car garage, shingles approx 4 yrs new, and new furnace 2011. Please allow 24 Hrs for showings.
Move Right in! This 2 bedroom home is in a great location w/easy access to the QEW. Lots of hardwood floors, newer windows, furnace ‘03, updated panel and wiring, covered front porch, and a nice backyard.
Gorgeous 2+2 bedroom bungalow with main flr laundry, in desirable neighbourhood. In-law setup on lower level with private walk-out. Beautiful hardwood floors with cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace. Master bedroom has luxury ensuite and walk-in closet. Shows like a dream!
Fabulous waterfront property! Custom built, 3000 sq ft home with lake views from every room. Maple hardwood floors, granite counters, master suite with access to back deck, ensuite and walk-in shower. Handicap adaptable!
GriMSBy $356,900 519 Ridge Road East
GriMSBy $179,900 49 Ontario Street, Unit#14
BeaMSville $239,900 4181 Fly Road
vineland $310,000 3380 Dustan Street
1.37 acres on escarpment ravine near Bruce Trail! Features geothermal system Jan ’10, insulated roof, newer windows, amazing low energy costs, large 2.5 car garage, large deck w/above ground solar heated pool, and charming cedar-sided home with large eat-in kitchen.
Stunning townhome! Quality finishes throughout incl. hardwd flring, kit w/breakfast bar, oversized master BR, walk-in closet, & a main floor bath. Condo fees are $290.00/month & incl. C/Air, & exterior maintenance, building insururance, hydro, parking, & water.
Character home circa 1800’s gracefully set in scenic village of Campden. This 3/4 acre lot is just minutes away from wineries, & features 3 great big bedrms, lrg country size kitchen, main flr laundry, gorgeous plank flooring, triple detached 24 x 24 ft. garage/workshop.
Lakefront community living in comfort and style. This 2 bedroom bungalow features relaxing front porch, 9ft ceilings, 2 full bathrooms, central air conditioning, spacious deck off of kitchen, main floor laundry. Homeowner Assoc. fee $30/mo for use of waterfront clubhouse and beach.
BeaMSville $267,900 5103 Connor Drive
SMithville $399,900 146 Rock Street
2 Storey freehold townhome, backing onto park! Home features $20,000 in upgrades, 3pc ensuite, walk in closet, maple cupboards, California shutters, C/Air, C/Vacuum, Alarm, access from garage to rear, yard, minutes to all amenities.
Outstanding & immaculate Custom built 2350 sq.ft. Facing park, loaded w/upgrades, features maple kitchen with antique finish and granite counters, gleaming hardwood flrs, porceline tile, California shutters, luxury ensuite master bedrm with French doors leading to 16x24 covered patio.
Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation
BeaMSville $339,900 4034 Barry Drive Trendy, stylish raised ranch! This cozy 1100 sqft. features 9-ft ceilings w/bright big windows, hardwd flrs, kit. w/walk out to patio, renovated bathrm, sun filled basement w/family rm, gas FP & spare BR w/full bathrm. Fantastic escarpment neighbourhood w/an extra deep lot
Call the Golfi team today!
905-945-0188
BUNGALOW
BUNGALOW
BeaMSville $249,900 5120 Connor Drive
BeaMSville $339,900 4092 Mountain Street
BeaMSville $236,900 5137 Connor Drive
BeaMSville $249,900 5143 Connor Drive
Fabulous end unit freehold Bungalow 1,110 sqft! 90 day closing avail. Come & visit our model home & be wowed on this Energy Guide & Tested Home. Incl great size bedroomss w/3 pc ensuite off master, kitchen area overlooking family rm, attached to next unit only at garage.
Want quality, this house is for you! This one flr plan incl. $20,000 in extras, California knock down ceilings, rounded corners, 120 sq.ft. of hrdwd flrs, upgraded trim package, maple kit, asphalt drv & much more! Approx 1445 sq.ft. similar to be built.
2 Storey freehold town home 1386 sq.ft. Similar to be built. Features includes great sized BRs w/3pc ensuite & walk in closet off master, kit w/breakfast area overlooking family room, available for 60 day possession, access from garage to rear yard, & min to all amenities.
Fabulous end unit freehold Bungalow 1110 sqft avail. for 60-90 day closing. Come & visit our model home & wowed on this Energy Guide & Tested home. Incl. great size BRs w/4pc ensuite off master, kitchen area overlooking family rm, attached to neighbouring unit at the garage only.
GriMSBy $324,900 24 Red Haven Drive
GriMSBy $249,900 41 Kenyon Crescent
GriMSBy $172,900 #31-125 Livingston Avenue
St CatharineS $384,000 40 Glenridge Avenue
Bright and Airy. Lovely one floor semi in a stylish neighbourhood. This home features a lovely eat-in kitchen, spacious living rm/dining rm w/ open staircase to finished basement complete w/ large fin recroom and extra bedrm
Fabulous freehold end unit townhouse! Open concept main flr w/kitchen, dinette & living rm. Patio door overlooks fenced yard & a 2-tiered wooden deck. Lrg master w/full wall closet, plus 2 extra large bedrooms & a 4pc bath. Finished Rec rm w/2pc bath & area for a home office/bar.
Great Value in this lovely 3 bedroom end unit townhome! Amazing escarpment views from your patio door. Freshly painted, hardwood flrs on upper & main levels. Corner gas fireplace in the living room. Plenty of parking, close to amenities and go station.
Stylish Old Glenridge Living. This stunning 1-1/2 storey beauty provides the classic beauty of its age and the updates you would expect. This 3 bedroom home oozes character from the moment your drive up!
www.GolfiTeam.com
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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
February 20, 2012
The Hidden Value in Heritage Properties
A
city’s heritage should be a sense of pride. It honours the past, while allowing the future to evolve. But many people complain that a heritage designation lowers a property’s value because it limits what a new owner can do with it. I believe that’s a myth and here’s why.Ontario’s Heritage Act guides municipalities in supporting heritage efforts. Most city heritage staff work with a committee of citizens and local politicians who advise city council and act as a resource on heritage issues. The city clerk keeps a register of all heritage properties. About 4,500 homes in Toronto and 280 in Mississauga are designated heritage properties while there are many others that are “listed.” Listed means the property appears in the city’s heritage register, but it has not yet been fully researched or documented so it is not yet protected by the Heritage Act. Here is what the heritage committee looks for in deciding whether a property should be designated: • It has significant architectural value. • It relates to a significant person or event in the history of a city or helps us understand the character of our community or area. • It displays a high degree of craftsmanship, artistic merit or scientific or technical achievement. • It is a landmark. • It does not have to be old. Roy Thomson Hall and the CN Tower are
parts of our modern heritage and are symbols that define Toronto to the world. • It preserves the valuable legacy of the past. As an example, the Adamson Estate on Enola Ave. in Mississauga was built in 1920. Mabel Cawthra and Agar Adamson commissioned the Flemish gabled mansion, inspired by their World War I experience in Belgium and the Toronto firm Sproatt and Rolph designed it. The Cawthra family, one of the oldest in modern Mississauga, traces their roots back almost 500 years to Yorkshire, England. The main criticism of a heritage designation is the myth that it will reduce the value of a property. Here are some of the benefits: • Studies have shown that heritage properties increase in value at the same rate as non-designated properties. The Flatiron building located where Front, Wellington and Church streets meet in Toronto can charge the same rent as Triple A buildings nearby. It is also cool to be there. • You may have access to heritage grant programs to improve your property. • Heritage staff can help with advice on renovations. • There may be rebates on property taxes. • There is an increased sense of pride of ownership and civic responsibility. There are also points to remember whether you’re buying or selling a heritage home. If you’re selling one, be sure to market the heritage designation as a positive feature. Although there are added steps to demolish or alter a heritage home, if you work with city heritage staff and understand how to make your application, it should not take much more time than a regular building permit.
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Interiors of the home are usually not included in the designation, so you can do almost any interior renovation, similar to a non-designated home. Remember that you are selling something special — a piece of our history. If you are making an application to change or renovate a heritage home, be sure to tell the story of your home, with detailed photographs of what it looks like today and what it will look like. Use the committee members for advice and guidance before you make your application, whether it is about building materials, style or even land elevations. The committee members may include architects and historians, who can give valuable input based on their own years of experience. This is likely to assist you in increasing the value of your heritage home. Would you change the shape of
the piece of sculpture on your mantle? How about painting a different colour on that original piece of art you own? Think of the external architecture of a heritage home the same way and increase your sense of pride with your own home ownership. by Mark Weisleder
Crossword Solution
Maximum Exposure Sells Your Home
www.golfiteam.com
Dry, Seeping or Gushing All Methods InterExterior
John Walker
1.888.808.7595 www.bondseal.com bondsealcanada@yahoo.ca
The Golfi Team is ranked in the Top 100 Re/max Teams in Canada.
www.golfiteam.com
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February 20, 2012
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Canadian Housing Market to Remain Steady
H
ousing markets are expected to remain steady in 2012 and 2013, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) first quarter 2012. “With the Canadian economy set to expand at a moderate pace and mortgage rates expected to remain low, activity levels in 2012 in both new home construction and sales of existing homes will stay close to levels seen in 2011,” said Mathieu Laberge, Deputy Chief Economist for CMHC. Housing starts will be in the range of 164,000 to 212,700 units in 2012, with a point forecast of 190,000 units. In 2013, housing starts will be in the range of 168,900 to 219,300 units, with a point forecast of 193,800 units. Existing home sales will be in the range of 406,000 to 504,500 units in 2012, with a point forecast of 457,300 units. In 2013, MLS® sales are expected to move up in the range of 417,600
to 517,400 units, with a point forecast of 468,200 units. The average MLS® price is forecast to be between $330,000 and $410,000 in 2012 and between $335,000 and $430,000 in 2013. CMHC’s point forecast for the average MLS® price is $368,900 for 2012 and $379,000 for 2013. The moderate increases in the average MLS® price are consistent with the balanced market conditions that occurred in 2011, and that are expected to continue in 2012 and 2013. As Canada's national housing agency, CMHC draws on more than 65 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of quality, environmentally sustainable and affordable housing solutions. 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.
Sharon Stafford Sales Representative
Ashley Sidler
Sales Representative
Rob Golfi
Sales Representative
Page 7
5 Tips for Childproofing Your Home How to safeguard toddlers in the most serious problem areas 1. Cabinets are the most important areas to secure, as they are often used to store cleaning products and other hazardous materials. Secure these by attaching latches to the doors and frames. 2. A bookcase can tip over, so use an anchor harness to secure it to the wall. Attach one end of the harness to a wall stud with a screw, and then cinch up the adjustable strap to snug the bookcase to the wall. 3. Secure refrigerator doors shut with an appliance latch. The latch mounts to the fridge with adhesive tabs. Clean the area where it will attach before sticking it in place. 4. Insert plastic protectors into all sockets that are within reach of young ones. 5. For keeping toddlers away from anything they shouldn't be exposed to, a baby gate is a must. To install, hold the gate in place where you want it and mark points on wall for mounting. The gate should be mounted to studs. If you can't find studs, use plastic anchors.
Heather Reid
Hans Marcellissen
Wendy Murray-Nicholson
Mike McNeil
Jaclyn Ross
Rosemarie Fournier
Sales Representative
Sales Representative
Sales Representative
Office Manager
Sales Representative
Listing Co-ordinator
Together… Delivering More!
Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation
Call Rob Golfi today!
905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188 Call Today 905-575-7700
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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
February 20, 2012
Top 7 Reasons Why Lenders Decline an Application and How to Turn it Around
N
ot all lenders are created equal, says lending advisor Dalia Barsoum, although, as she explains, there are several common reasons why you may be declined for financing. You found the investment opportunity you have been looking for... Your offer has now been accepted and you are eager to waive the financing condition. You have submitted a financing application through your lending advisor or directly to the lender and are anxiously waiting to hear back. Declined is the answer! Not what you were hoping to hear. What happened? Here are the top common reasons for why a lender may decline financing. It is important to recognize that not all lenders are equal. Lenders differ in terms of: 1) The geographic focus of where they lend. Some lenders are not willing to lend in cities or towns where property value fluctuates or the local economic fundamentals are weak (i.e. lack of job growth, infrastructure expansion). 2) The property types they lend against. Some lenders for example shy away from lending towards student/rooming houses or rental properties altogether. 3) The number of rental properties
one can own. Some lenders will finance a maximum of two rental properties per individual/entity. Others are willing to go with five, while some may not have a limit. 4) The criteria they use to evaluate the strength of a particular application. Each lender has its own qualification ratios for evaluating applications. Some lenders accept higher investor debt load relative to overall income levels than others and some will consider the strength of the property over the applicant’s. 5) Product offering. Lenders differ in the client segments they focus on. For example, some have good products for self-employed or clients with challenged credit, while others don’t. They also differ in terms of the extent of support documentation required from the client to close the deal. 6) How they factor in rental income. Lenders differ in how they look at rental income and how much of it will be factored in the evaluation of your application. It would be nice to factor 100% of the rental income on your application. The reality is that lenders factor in only a percentage (typically between 50% 80%). Some would consider it extra income, while others look at rental as a way to offset rental expenses. 7) The structure under which they finance the deal. Some lenders won’t finance deals that are set up under a corporate structure. Simply because they perceive it as a higher risk deal due to the effort/costs associated with dealing with multiple parties if a foreclosure has to take place. It is so important to send your application to the “right” lender not just the one offering the lowest interest rate. The “right” lender is one who’s lending philosophy (encompassing all of the above factors) is in line with your specific situ-
ation and needs. Sending your application to the wrong lender could result in a decline.
Did your application for financing get declined? Lending advisor Dalia Barsoum explains what you can and should now do. The worst thing you can do when it comes to financing is to follow what we call “A trick or treat” approach to shopping for a loan. What we mean by that is knocking on various lenders’ doors by submitting your application to several simultaneously or one after the other if it gets declined. While shopping around is very important, doing it in the manner described above will not only hurt your credit, if each of those lenders pull a credit report on you, but will also waste time if you are not 100% sure that you are submitting to the right lender. There are better ways to shop the deal and increase your chances of getting approved. If you have been declined by the lender Ask for the reasons behind the decline and discuss any misunderstanding that may have occurred and contributed to the decline and if there is anything to do about it. It is worth it to take this step first before taking your application somewhere else. Before you submit/resubmit your application Before you submit or resubmit your application after a decline to the next lender, you need to speak with a lending advisor that specializes in financing rental properties and who has access to multiple lenders in that area. Discuss your story with the advisor, including your financial situation, investment strat-
egy and provide him/her with information about the deal at hand and the reasons your deal was declined ( if any). Your advisor will be able to package your deal and with her/his understanding of the various lenders’ policies, areas of strength/weakness and your investment goals, he/she will be able to submit your application to the right lender and increase your chances of approval. Relationships Matter Do not underestimate the power of relationships to the success of your investment career. Selecting the right lending partner early in your investment plan is key to getting approved and continuing to get approved. Look for a track record and specialization in financing real estate investments as well as access to various lenders and/or products that are tailored to your specific situation and investment strategy. Take the time to educate your partner about your goals and investment plan from the get go and discuss with him/her the financing plan for any deals that come your way early on and before committing to an offer. Your lending partner acts as your sounding board, reduces the hassles associated with shopping around for a loan and can direct and educate you on how and what to do with your application. With their understanding of the various lending products out there, their lender relationships and market knowledge they will know what works or doesn't early on in the process and before submitting your application.
Call Today 905-575-7700
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February 20, 2012
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 9
Year-to-Date Statistics Based on sales data on all home sales from January 2011 vs January 2012, P R E S E N T E D
B Y
T H E
G O L F I
T E A M
REALTORS Association of Hamilton-Burlington YTD Comparison Jan 2012 / Jan 2011
Listed YTD
Expired YTD
Sold YTD
Average Selling Price
Average Days on Market
Selling % of List Price
ANCASTER (DISTRICT 42)
2012 2011
58 85
24 15
27 28
$427,806 $489,711
49 67
97% 97%
BURLINGTON (DIST. 30 to 36 & 38)
2012 2011
305 321
25 30
181 167
$435,162 $392,221
40 55
98% 98%
DUNDAS (DISTRICT 41)
2012 2011
29 29
6 6
27 12
$335,642 $323,475
56 82
97% 98%
GLANBROOK (DISTRICT 53)
2012 2011
42 47
9 9
23 21
$333,778 $342,019
76 78
98% 97%
GRIMSBY LWR (DISTRICT 54)
2012 2011
37 39
9 7
23 11
$309,087 $270,148
68 66
96% 97%
GRIMSBY MTN (DISTRICT 55)
2012 2011
5 2
0 1
2 1
$343,750 $580,000
36 31
95% 97%
HAMILTON EAST (DIST. 23,24,27,28,29)
2012 2011
70 81
14 14
64 41
$195,683 $168,467
67 71
97% 96%
HAMILTON MTN (DIST. 15,16,17,18,25,26)
2012 2011
158 189
39 34
106 100
$256,077 $231,177
56 60
97% 97%
HAMILTON CTRL. (DIST. 13,14,20,21,22)
2012 2011
110 136
20 36
68 53
$155,381 $145,375
50 69
97% 96%
LINCOLN (DISTRICT 980,981)
2012 2011
19 24
7 4
8 8
$259,435 $236,363
59 105
97% 96%
WEST LINCOLN (DISTRICT 56, 982)
2012 2011
10 11
3 2
7 3
$351,900 $280,167
59 76
97% 94%
SMITHVILLE (DISTRICT 57)
2012 2011
6 8
2 4
2 2
$303,500 $195,000
88 140
98% 99%
STONEY CRK MTN (DISTRICT 50)
2012 2011
25 28
7 4
15 10
$281,467 $307,120
48 63
97% 98%
STONEY CRK LWR (DISTRICT 51)
2012 2011
76 63
13 12
38 40
$305,616 $277,795
66 76
97% 96%
AREA
Your house will get noticed FiRSt when listed by the Team who gets noticed the moSt!
Call the Golfi team today!
905-575-7700
www.golfiteam.com
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Page 10
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
February 20, 2012
2012‌ A Good Year to Buy a Home
A
re you thinking about buying a home in the Greater Hamilton, Burlington or outlying areas? 2012 should be a good year for making a purchase as large as a house. How do we know? Economists tell us that low interest rates, relatively low unemployment, good employment prospects and business growth are good signs for the housing market, and they are all present for our local market. The Hamilton-Burlington real estate market will see modest growth supported by the expectation of continued good economic conditions. First and foremost, interest rates are low. They are expected to remain low for this year and perhaps into the early part of next year. With five-year fixed mortgage rates available at under five per cent and six-month to four-year rates ranging well below that, the time seems right to be taking
advantage of those low rates to buy a home. Unemployment figures for the Hamilton and Burlington areas show our rate is about one per cent lower than the national average and compare even better to the Ontario average. Our unemployment rate is down halfa-percentage point from last year. We have seen new employers bringing successful and active business to this area recently and we are seeing local jobs maintained as well. Employment stability will increase consumer confidence in our local economy and more confidence in the housing market. Our area is the only area in Southern Ontario expected to show economic growth through 2012. In their Housing Outlook Conference in November of last year, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) cited strong jobs growth in our area as one of the reasons we
could expect to see growth. The Hamilton area also scored well with the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), which named Hamilton as the best place in Ontario and the third best in Canada in which to invest in real estate. By taking into account population growth, major employers, infrastructure and pending major transportation improvements, the REIN found Hamilton to be a good bet. And it is not just our economy that makes 2012 a good time to purchase a home in our area. First time buyers taking advantage of low interest rates will find additional incentives to purchase a home through the land transfer tax rebate for first time buyers and the Home Buyer’s Plan, which allows first-time buyers to withdraw up to $25,000 from their RRSPs to buy or build a home.
Affordability is always an issue, and in the Greater Hamilton, Burlington and outlying areas, we have a wide range of prices, properties and options for home buyers. The average house price in our market area at the end of 2011 was $313,430 – that is just the average. There are homes available for under $100,000 in Hamilton and $1 million homes as well. We have mansions to cottages, historic neighbourhoods to brand new subdivisions, acreages to leaseholds. There really is something for everyone in our area. Our area provides the stability home buyers should be looking for when they are purchasing a home, and a wide range of housing options and opportunities. This could very well be the right year to buy a home in this area. by Cameron Nolan President
289-969-6532
Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation
Call Rob Golfi today!
905-575-7700 905-945-0188
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February 20, 2012
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 11
Homes For Sale GRiMSBY
STOnEY CREEk
HAMiLTOn WEST
DunDAS
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $235,000 23 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $234,900 31 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $134,900 15 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $244,900 11 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $189,999 38 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $159,900 91 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $162,900 19 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $229,000 18 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $164,900 33 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $147,000 51 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $135,000 18 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $189,900 4 Available
LinCOLn
EAST HAMiLTOn
HAMiLTOn CTR
GLAnBROOk
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $159,000 33 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $92,400 35 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $89,900 27 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $209,500 26 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $239,900 27 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $134,900 28 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $74,900 68 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $249,999 49 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $169,900 17 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $99,900 24 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $59,999 27 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $234,900 15 Available
WEST LinCOLn
HAMiLTOn MTn
AnCASTER
BuRLinGTOn
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $329,000 12 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $139,900 60 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $359,000 23 Available
Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $239,900 58 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $359,000 6 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $179,000 104 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $399,900 74 Available
Two Storeys Starting at $349,900 147 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $0,00 0 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $119,900 46 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $259,000 14 Available
Semis and Town Homes Starting at $169,900 79 Available
Call Us Today for Information on Any of these Homes! 905-757-7700 • 905-945-0188 www.golfiteam.com
MarketWatch February B 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 16/02/12 3:12 PM Page 12
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