Jan. 23, 2012 Issue 40

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January 23, 2012 - Vol 35a

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

January 23, 2012

(Solution on Page 10)

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 1 Ethiopian capital (5,5) 7 Levy on cars etc (4,3) 8 Loose-fitting shirt or cloak (5) 10 Destiny (4) 11 Side playing at their own ground (4,4) 13 Process of arrival (6) 15 Seafood item (6) 17 Envious emotion (8) 18 Contract (a muscle) (4) 21 Digger for gold or coal, say (5) 22 Thick soft porous cake — attractive person (7) 23 Clumsy person — heavy shoe (10)

Down 1 Separate(d) (5) 2 Shorter signals in the Morse code (4) 3 Church bell-ringer or grave-digger (6) 4 Flatter (6,2) 5 Barmy (7) 6 Bottleneck on wheels (7,3) 9 Intricacy (10) 12 (Of gossip) in circulation (8) 14 Face cloth (7) 16 Hitchcock classic (6) 19 Person shunned socially (5) 20 Evidence of pregnancy — knock (into) (4)

SUDOKU 2

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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.

“There was an old woman who lived in a shoe, but it sold. How about a fuzzy slipper in a bedroom community?"

www. GolfiTeam .com

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January 23, 2012

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

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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! T

LIS F O % R 98 O F SOLD

DAYS 5 1 IN

FOR D SOL

T LIS F O 98%

FOR D L O S

LIST F O 98.5%

DAYS 8 3 IN

T

F LIS O % R 99 O F SOLD

DAYS 6 IN

Grimsby $329,500 6 Brentwood Road

HamilTON $119,900 64 Edgemont Street North

Grimsby $276,900 5 Bayview Drive

sTONEy CrEEK $349,900 29 Peachwood Crescent

Better than new! This completely updated 3 level sidesplit has everything. Hardwood throughout, new maple kitchen, updated furnace & C/A, all updated vinyl windows and doors. Beautifully decorated. 12'x30' garage. Close to town on quiet cul-de-sac. Call today!

Amazing value in this 3 bedrm bungalow!

Features incl. laundry on main floor, 1 bath, an unspoiled basement, side parking & great front porch. Huge fully fenced yard w/on-ground pool surrounded by deck & gardens. School is within walking distance. A great family neighbourhood.

Great Value! 3 bedrm, 2 storey home updated w/ furnace/ac & kitchen complete w/new cabinetry counters & flooring(2011), concrete drive & patio door & basement windows(2010). Master bedrm w/ensuite & partially fin basemnt.

Immaculate 4+1 bedroom home in sought after Stoney Creek neighborhood. This 2,060 SqFt home features open concept layout, 4+1 bedrooms, ensuite and walk-in off master bedroom, separate dining room, hardwood in living room, fully finished basement.

FOR D SOL

GET YOUR HOME SOLD TODAY! 905-575-7700

T LIS F O 95%

sTONEy CrEEK $214,900 1026 Highway #8 Big bungalow in Stoney Creek on the Winona border! Country living minutes to Eastgate Mall & easy hwy access. Big bright rooms & updated furnace, c/air & windows, 2 car parking, big front deck, easy care lawn & landscaping, great value, & fantastic neighbours! Call 905-575-7700.

T

F LIS O % 8 OR 9 F D SOL

DAYS 4 3 IN S

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T LIS F %O 0 0 1 OR F D SOL sTONEy CrEEK mTN $279,000 129 Slinger Avenue 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.

R UYE B H CAS Y OM T D SOL

Grimsby $268,500 101 Magnolia Crescent

smiTHVillE $274,900 8 Cherry Avenue

Grimsby $399,900 28 Sumner Crescent

Grimsby $379,900 442 Main Street

End unit townhouse in fantastic area. Features new painted maple kitchen w/glass backsplash, new hardwood in LR/DR. Finished basement w/built-in for media center. Centrally located close to shopping, parks, hwy access.

5 years new! Raised ranch in fantastic neighbourhood. Features 1142 sqft of open concept space.Gas fireplace in living room, large bright bedrooms. 13' X 25' concrete patio in fenced in back yard. Call the Golfi Team today for a private viewing.

Awesome 4 bedroom home features slate & brazilian cherry floors, custom cherry kitchen cabinets, custom drapery, professionally finished basement, new central air and furnace, new liner & pool pump '08, hot tub, mostly vinyl windows.

Character home set along Grimsby’s tree lined street. Features new kitchen, updated baths, new furnace c/air & water heater, new shingles & plywood 2002, all vinyl windows, hardwd under all broadloom, 2 storey garage 45x26 ft w/finished loft above with furnace & bathrm.

Call Today 905-575-7700

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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 23, 2012

Hamilton & Stoney Creek Rob Golfi*

sTONEy CrEEK $549,900 132 Millen Road

HamilTON $309,900 956 Stone Church Road East

CalEdONia $249,500 21 Orkney Street West

HamilTON $134,900 86 Rosemont Avenue

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.

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.

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.

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

HamilTON EasT $194,900 34 Barons Avenue

HamilTON, ON $369,900 260 Bay Street S., Unit 2

HamilTON $299,900 292 Delancey Boulevard

sTONEy CrEEK $189,900 518-500 Green Road

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.

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.

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.

if you want it

SOLD

HamilTON $389,900 69 South Oval

HamilTON $114,900 294 Emerald Street North

Prime Westdale village. Center Hall. Many upgrades include kitchen, back flow valve, windows, roof & electrical. Impressive loft area used as master retreat, lower level bath with heated floors. Call Listing agent for rental income.

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.

www.RobGolfi.com

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 $379,900 23 Vineberg Drive

HamilTON $104,500 18 Francis Street

HamilTON $149,900 101 Cope Street

HamilTON $1,900/mONTH 87 Mountain Park Avenue

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.

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.

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.

sTONEy CrEEK $279,900 194 Millen Road

sTONEy CrEEK $274,900 326 Jones Road

HamilTON EasT $95,900 399 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 windws.

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!

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 $329,900 202 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.

Call Rob Golfi 905-575-7700 or visit

sTONEy CrEEK $419,900 35 Ivybridge Drive

Call Today 905-575-7700

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January 23, 2012

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 5

Grimsby, Lincoln & West Lincoln Area

Rob Golfi*

sT. CaTHariNEs $269,900 61 Croydon Drive

ViNElaNd $310,000 3380 Dustan Street

bEamsVillE $339,900 4034 Barry Drive

bEamsVillE $219,900 5455 King Street

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.

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.

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

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.

bEamsVillE $267,900 5103 Connor Drive

bEamsVillE $249,900 5120 Connor Drive

WEsT liNCOlN $328,500 9407 Silver 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.

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.

Amazing updated home on 100 x 200 ft lot, built in 1953, has an open concept living room/dining room with hardwood floors, huge master suite, New high efficiency gas furnance/CA, updated main bath, entry doors, & water conditioner.

Bonus room over the garage.

Grimsby

$449,900 68 Lake Street

Beautiful, spacious 3+1 bedroom family home with old-world charm, on park-like setting.

Located on large 75'x195' lot with 25'x32' tandem deep garage. Restored hardwood floors, upgraded doors and trim throughout. Thousands spent on upgrades and updates in past five years.

BUNGALOW

bEamsVillE $236,900 5137 Connor Drive

bEamsVillE $249,900 5143 Connor Drive

Grimsby $324,900 24 Red Haven Drive

Grimsby $249,900 41 Kenyon Crescent

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.

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.

Grimsby $172,900 #31-125 Livingston Avenue

sT CaTHariNEs $384,000 40 Glenridge Avenue

Grimsby $369,900 519 Ridge Road East

bEamsVillE $749,900 4816 Mountainview Road North

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!

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.

2 storey, 3000 sq.ft. on 6.75 acre hobby farm!

Upgrades incl new hardwd, new kitchen w/granite, new carpeting w/up-graded under pad, Mbed rm w/luxury ensuite, 3 season sunrm, gas FP, new c/air & furnace, updated shingles, 2 storage out buildings, & quick access to QEW.

smiTHVillE $399,900 146 Rock Street

bEamsVillE $339,900 4092 Mountain Street

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.

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.

Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation

905-945-0188

www.GolfiTeam.com

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Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today!

905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188

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.

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Specializing in Concrete Crack Repairs:

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John Walker

The Golfi Team is ranked in the Top 100 Re/max Teams in Canada.

1.888.808.7595 www.bondseal.com bondsealcanada@yahoo.ca

Sharon Stafford Sales Representative

Ashley Sidler

Sales Representative

Rob Golfi

Sales Representative

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!

www.golfiteam.com

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January 23, 2012

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 7

Balanced Conditions Set to Return to Most Canadian Housing Markets in 2012, while Residential Values Expected to Once Again Set New Records, says RE/MAX

Canadian residential real estate defied conventional logic and outperformed expectations in 2011, posting another solid year of housing activity virtually across the board. The trend is expected to carry forward into 2012 as Canadians continue to demonstrate their faith in homeownership.

Canadian residential real estate defied conventional logic and outperformed expectations in 2011, posting another solid year of housing activity virtually across the board. The trend is expected to carry forward into 2012 as Canadians continue to demonstrate their faith in homeownership, despite concerns over the European debt crisis and its impact on the global economy, according to a report released by RE/MAX. The RE/MAX Housing Market Outlook 2012 examined trends and developments in 26 major markets across the country.

Eighty-eight per cent (23/26) anticipated average price increases by year-end 2011—with percentage hikes ranging from one to 16 per cent. The forecast for 2012 shows the upward trend moderating, but still ahead of 2011 figures.

Overall home sales are expected to remain on par or ahead of last year’s levels in 85 per cent (22/26) of markets in 2011—including Saskatoon with a year-over-year percentage increase of 13 per cent and an eight per cent uptick in Calgary, Winnipeg, HamiltonBurlington and Sudbury. Almost half of Canadian markets will match the 2011 performance, while the remainder should post increases ranging from one to five per cent next year.

By year-end 2011, an estimat-

ed 460,000 homes are expected to change hands, up three per cent from the 447,010 units reported in 2010. Sales are expected to climb one per cent to 464,500 units in 2012. The value of a Canadian home is set to climb to $363,000 this year—an increase of seven per cent over the $339,030 posted one year ago. By year-end 2012, the average price in Canada is forecast to appreciate two per cent to $371,000.

The Canadian housing market has demonstrated tremendous resilience in recent years, but 2011 stands out. Instead of responding to economic concerns both here and abroad with a retreat in sales and prices, residential real estate markets actually experienced an upswing in the volatile third and final quarters. While clearly not impervious to the impact, Canadian consumers are intent on making their moves now, in advance of higher housing values and rising interest rates down the road.

Improvement in both provincial and local economies, especially during the second half of 2012, should serve to further stimulate home-buying activity. Calgary, Saskatoon, and HalifaxDartmouth will likely lead the country in unit sales in 2012, each with a projected increase of five per cent. Regina, Greater Toronto, Saint John, Moncton, and St. John’s anticipate a three per cent increase in home sales next year.

The economic underpinnings support ongoing demand, particularly as job creation efforts continue and unemployment rates edge down further. Nationally, we remain on an upward track, and the confidence consumers have demonstrated in housing over the past decade will prove well founded once again next year. The rising belief in homeownership is key, especially among Generation X and Y—some of whom are

making their moves sooner.

Boomers and retirees are changing, too. They’re healthier and more active, with longer life expectancy. Overall, we’re seeing an extension of the homeownership cycle, and it’s great news for housing.

While tighter supply levels contributed to steady price appreciation in most major markets across Canada this year, an increase in inventory more in line with years previous should ease upward pressure on average price in the year ahead. The highest appreciation is expected in Regina, where values are forecast to increase eight per cent, followed by Greater Toronto, Halifax-Dartmouth, and St, John’s—each posting a five per cent gain. Overall, 81 per cent of the markets examined are forecast to set new records for average price next year. Noteworthy milestones include Greater Vancouver, which will break the $800,000 threshold, as well as Regina and Kitchener-Waterloo, which will reach the $300,000 mark.

While prices will remain on the upswing, buyers will benefit from greater selection moving forward. Stability or modest growth will characterize sales activity while GDP moves forward at a more muted pace in 2012.

Whether markets will meet or potentially exceed projections will hinge largely on consumer confidence. An unexpected call for interest rate hikes could also serve to bolster sales.

Other highlights include: • Population growth and immigration are major factors expected to prop-up housing demand and household formation in the coming years. Since 2000, Canada’s population has experienced double-digit growth of 11 per cent. By 2031, over 42 mil-

lion people are expected to call Canada home.

• Investment will also continue in Canada’s major centres, with income-producing properties at the top of the most wanted list.

Low vacancy rates and stock market volatility reinvigorated this segment of the market in 2011 and the very same factors are forecast to influence sales moving forward.

• Condominiums are expected to gain an increasing share of the marketplace, particularly in Western Canada and Ontario. A focus on higher density urban growth is impacting purchasing patterns and introducing new, affordable options—critical to the attainability of homeownership as prices continue to move upward.

• Housing stock in major Canadian centres will improve as municipalities focus on redevelopment and revitalization.

RE/MAX is Canada’s leading real estate organization with over 18,500 sales associates situated throughout its more than 700 independently-owned and operated offices in Canada. The RE/MAX network, now in its 38th year, is a global real estate system operating in 80 countries, with over 6,200 independently-owned offices and over 89,000 member sales associates.

RE/MAX realtors lead the industry in professional designations, experience and production while providing real estate services in residential, commercial, referral, and asset management.

For more information, visit: www.remax.ca.

by Christine Martysiewicz RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada

Call Today 905-575-7700

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The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 23, 2012

Greater Hamilton, Burlington and Outlying Areas See an Increase in Number of Listings (January 5, 2012 – Hamilton, Ontario) The real estate market in the Greater Hamilton, Burlington and outlying areas saw an increase in the number of listings and a small decrease in the number of sales and average sale price when compared to the same month last year, according to Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) statistics released today by the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB).

After several months of strong sales, the residential condominium market experienced a drop in number of sales of just under five per cent when compared to December of last year. The same market also saw a 9.9

per cent increase in average sale price over the same month last year.

In the residential freehold market, sales dropped less than two per cent from last year at this time while the average sale price increased by two per cent.

While sales were down compared to last year, listings and sales were both higher than the 10-year average for the month.

“The December market performed well compared to the average for the month over the last ten years,” said RAHB President Cameron Nolan, “and the average sale price continues to rise in our area.”

Every community in RAHB’s

marketing area has their own localized residential market with larger swings than are evident in the overall numbers.

In December Hamilton Centre, Dundas, Flamborough and Glanbook all saw significant increases in numbers of sales, while Hamilton Mountain, Ancaster, Waterdown and Caledonia showed drops in sales compared to the same month last year.

Ancaster and Dunnville (area 61) saw decreases in average sale price compared to the same month last year while Hamilton East, Hamilton Mountain, Grimsby and Glanbrook had the greatest increases in average sale price.

“No one should take these monthly snapshots of local markets as trends,” added Nolan. “They are merely a report of what occurred in a particular month and can change wildly from month to month, especially in areas with lower volumes of sales.”

Please refer to the accompanying chart for residential market activities in other parts of RAHB’s jurisdiction.

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®).

amoRTiZaTioN CHaRT Monthly payment per $1,000 Length of Mortgage (Amortization Period) Example $150,000 at 20yr at 3.0%: 150 x 5.54 = $831.00 /month Interest Rate (%) 5 yr

10 yr

15 yr

20 yr

25 yr

30 yr

35 yr

3.00 3.50 4.00 4.50 5.00 5.50 6.00 6.50 7.00 7.50

9.65 9.88 10.11 10.34 10.58 10.82 11.07 11.31 11.56 11.81

6.90 7.14 7.38 7.63 7.88 8.14 8.40 8.66 8.93 9.21

5.54 5.79 6.04 6.30 6.57 6.84 7.12 7.41 7.69 7.99

4.73 4.99 5.26 5.53 5.82 6.10 6.40 6.70 7.00 7.32

4.21 4.48 4.76 5.04 5.34 5.64 5.95 6.26 6.59 6.91

3.84 4.12 4.41 4.71 5.01 5.33 5.65 5.98 6.32 6.66

17.96 18.18 18.40 18.62 18.85 19.07 19.30 19.53 19.75 19.98

Interest Rate (%) 5 yr

10 yr

15 yr

20 yr

25 yr

30 yr

35 yr

8.00 8.50 9.00 9.50 10.00 10.50 11.00 11.50 12.00

12.06 12.32 12.58 12.84 13.10 13.37 13.64 13.91 14.18

9.48 9.76 10.05 10.33 10.62 10.92 11.21 11.51 11.82

8.28 8.59 8.89 9.20 9.52 9.83 10.16 10.48 10.81

7.63 7.95 8.28 8.61 8.94 9.28 9.63 9.97 10.32

7.25 7.59 7.93 8.28 8.63 8.98 9.34 9.70 10.06

7.01 7.36 7.72 8.08 8.44 8.81 9.18 9.55 9.93

20.21 20.45 20.68 20.91 21.15 21.38 21.62 21.86 22.10

Call Today 905-575-7700

MarketWatch January B 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 19/01/12 4:22 PM Page 9

January 23, 2012

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 9

Year-to-Date Statistics Based on sales data on all home sales from December 2010 vs December 2011, 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 Dec 2011 / Dec 2010

Listed YTD

Expired YTD

Sold YTD

Average Selling Price

Average Days on Market

Selling % of List Price

ANCASTER (DISTRICT 42)

2011 2010

771 838

202 234

545 585

$432,817 $410,290

59 55

97% 97%

BURLINGTON (DIST. 30 to 36 & 38)

2011 2010

3739 3994

476 600

3285 3316

$413,432 $385,642

36 37

98% 98%

DUNDAS (DISTRICT 41)

2011 2010

410 449

74 78

324 347

$338,039 $336,574

52 46

98% 98%

GLANBROOK (DISTRICT 53)

2011 2010

507 457

119 114

381 328

$318,975 $310,624

57 61

97% 98%

GRIMSBY LWR (DISTRICT 54)

2011 2010

475 524

95 148

356 362

$316,770 $315,408

59 50

98% 98%

GRIMSBY MTN (DISTRICT 55)

2011 2010

59 54

25 18

34 32

$456,737 $380,941

70 69

96% 95%

HAMILTON EAST (DIST. 23,24,27,28,29)

2011 2010

1037 1021

220 261

790 718

$187,660 $180,396

50 47

96% 96%

HAMILTON MTN (DIST. 15,16,17,18,25,26)

2011 2010

2306 2369

418 429

1863 1871

$253,849 $246,506

49 47

97% 97%

HAMILTON CTRL. (DIST. 13,14,20,21,22)

2011 2010

1552 1768

472 580

1083 1075

$150,783 $148,421

51 48

96% 95%

LINCOLN (DISTRICT 94)

2011 2010

203 331

86 101

162 230

$281,350 $269,793

75 63

97% 97%

WEST LINCOLN (DISTRICT 56,58)

2011 2010

96 67

35 27

58 38

$329,522 $336,966

83 64

97% 97%

SMITHVILLE (DISTRICT 57)

2011 2010

109 188

37 82

81 96

$248,162 $256,368

69 77

97% 97%

STONEY CRK MTN (DISTRICT 50)

2011 2010

327 351

69 68

256 276

$298,330 $285,743

51 50

98% 98%

STONEY CRK LWR (DISTRICT 51)

2011 2010

884 943

232 279

641 641

$288,500 $285,092

62 59

97% 97%

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

MarketWatch January B 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 19/01/12 4:22 PM Page 10

Page 10

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 23, 2012

Divorce and Moving: How Hard Can it Really Be on the Children?`

A

fter a separation and divorce, the emotions of both parties have already been put on overload. And if the couple has children, the situation just became a million times harder, especially when there is a move to consider and all the changes that go with this new chapter of life.

Though there are a million things on your mind, if you are thinking of moving or relocating, a trusted real estate agent should help make the transition a smooth one and make it as less stressful as possible.

“Usually in the early months of the year is when I’ll get the phone calls from clients telling me they’re getting a divorce.

They don’t want to disturb the holidays so they wait for a bit after to break the news to family members,” said Rob Golfi.

“Being in the business as long as I have it’s a trend that’s been on the rise. A good real estate agent will be sympathetic to the situation and make sure there is as little stress to the family as possible during all of the new changes.”

Over the years, Golfi has helped many families going through these highly emotional times and he has these points to offer: 1. If the couple has children and the current home is near schools and extracurricular activities and friends, one or both parents may decide to stay in the current home or look at moving within close proximity to the area to help minimize the extent of changes on the child. The right real estate agent will empathize with your situation and help you make the most informed decision to your individual situation.

2. If there are children involved, extra care needs to be taken with what is being said during the final decisions.

Each child copes with the news of

3.

4.

5.

6.

divorce differently. Once any moves are over and the child begins seeing the parents in their new environments, there is an adjustment period, so parents need to be mindful of that.

To make the transition easier on children in joint-custody situations, have them bring personal items to and from both parent’s homes to help them feel more comfortable. Help them personalize their surroundings by helping them decorate their own spaces.

Despite a couple's differences, efforts should be made to ensure parenting styles and schedules are consistent at both homes. Although it may be difficult, separated parents should set guidelines for parenting that are consistent regardless of where the kids are staying.

If one or both parties is deciding on moving, there are things to consider as financial situations will be changing: What can you afford? Is there joint debt? Is there land maintenance that you’re unable to maintain? What are the pros and cons of staying in the home?

Do both parties fully understand the legalities of separating or divorce, including the division of property?

Ensure you fully understand all of the

legal and court documents and proceedings. Don’t be afraid to ask your lawyer questions.

“Contemplating a divorce is no easy decision. Going through one has many emotional, financial and legal stresses and responsibilities. When it comes to moving or relocating, a real estate agent will help you make the most informed decisions by being objective and knowledgeable,” said Golfi.

For more information, contact the Golfi team at 905-575-7700.

By Paula Kozbial

Crossword Solution

289-969-6532

Home evaluation No Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today!

905-575-7700 905-945-0188

MarketWatch January B 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 19/01/12 4:22 PM Page 11

January 23, 2012

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 11

Homes For Sale GRiMSBy

STOnEy CREEk

HAMiLTOn WEST

DunDAS

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 28 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 36 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $259,900 14 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $219,900 13 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $209,900 39 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $159,900 91 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $164,900 30 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $239,000 4 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $164,900 36 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $154,900 53 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $139,500 17 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $239,900 4 Available

LinCOLn

EAST HAMiLTOn

HAMiLTOn CTR

GLAnBROOk

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $169,900 31 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $95,900 40 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $59,900 29 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $209,500 23 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $258,900 28 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $134,900 29 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $51,900 149 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $254,900 41 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $169,900 20 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $99,900 22 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $59,900 29 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $224,900 9 Available

WEST LinCOLn

HAMiLTOn MTn

AnCASTER

BuRLinGTOn

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $274,900 10 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $159,000 66 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $319,900 24 Available

Bungalows/Raised Ranches Starting at $339,9000 53 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $184,500 7 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $194,900 101 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $357,900 72 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $344,900 124 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $0,00 0 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $125,000 39 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $239,900 17 Available

Semis and Town Homes Starting at $174,900 74 Available

Call Us Today for Information on Any of these Homes!

905-757-7700 • 905-945-0188 www.golfiteam.com

MarketWatch January B 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 19/01/12 4:22 PM Page 12

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