May 1, 2010 Issue 11

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May 2010 - Vol 17

P R E S E N T E D

B Y

T H E

G O L F I

T E A M

D L O S R E H T O N A ONE 75 Tomahawk, Grimsby We want to thank you for all the special attention you have personally given towards the sale of our home!

You never made it seem like we were high maintenance, even though we were. You were always available to answer many of our questions. We really appreciate your generosity and obviously we will recommend you to anyone we know.

Thanks so much!

Jill & Sav

WATERFRONT

41 Church Street STONEY CREEK

$749,900

Endless Opportunity

GORGEOUS WATERFRONT! Investment or In-law potential. 2 renovated separate units plus 1 apartment. Updates include landscaping, newer roofing, decking, flooring, awnings, wiring, plumbing, kitchen and much more. Don’t miss out on this one of a kind opportunity.

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

Visit www.RobGolfi.com for more details.

Sharon Stafford Sales Representative

Heather Reid Sales Representative

Hans Marcelissen Sales Representative

Wendy Murray-Nicholson* Sales Representative

Penny Bryce Sales Representative

Sarah Dallicardillo Administrative Assistant

Sell Your Home with the GOLFI TEAM The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada RE/MAX has over 18,000 Sales Representatives in Canada

Rosemary Fournier Administrative Assistant

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The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

About Rob Golfi

S

ince the inception of his career in 1997, Golfi has Rob recognized that understanding his clients’ needs is essential to providing excellent service.

As business grew, Rob assembled the Golfi Team in an effort to maintain the same level of professionalism clients have come to expect. Shortly thereafter in 2003, the team received the prestigious honour of being among the top 100 Real Estate Teams for RE/MAX Canada, and this status continues to date.

Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills have earned him every major honour awarded by RE/MAX, including President’s Club, 100% Club, Platinum Club, Chairman’s Club, Hall of Fame, the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006 and the SRES® designation in 2009.

Having worked with many of the industry’s professionals

by: Rob Golfi

over the years, he has the necessary edge to best negotiate the sale of your home.

Any agent can list your house, but Rob’s knowledge, marketing extensive background and dedication gives clients peace of mind when dealing with the single most important investment in their lives. With years of combined experience, the Golfi Team can provide your home with a level of exposure that most agents cannot. Utilizing a team approach also means that they will likely find a purchaser to buy your home sooner, rather than waiting for other agents to approach you with potential buyers.

Ranked in the top 5 of nearly 2,000 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington and Niagara areas, listing with Rob and the Golfi Team is the right choice when choosing someone to represent your best interest. -Å

SUDOKU 5 6 2

7

1

Home Evaluations

8 7 9

905-945-0188

2 6

NOT INTENDED TO SOLICIT PROPERTIES CURRENTLY LISTED FOR SALE.

3 6 8

7 9

it could be a result of water seeping in through basement windows, the walls or the floor.

Musty odor or damp smell. Excess moisture in a basement can cause an unmistakable smell.

Mold. It could be colored black, brown, yellow or green, and you won't know for certain if it's mold without testing it. Often the northwest corner of a house is known as a "cold corner" and susceptible to developing mold.

Efflorecence. This condition produces a white or sometimes grayish ash on the walls. Sometimes it sparkles.

Efflorescence is caused by salt deposits left behind by evaporating water.

Spalling. When water gets inside the surface of concrete, brick or stone, salt deposits from the water cause the surface to flake away, peel or pop off.

If you plan to hire an inspector, Call the Better Business Bureau and follow these tips: • Make sure the person worked as an inspector for several years.

• They should perform at least 250 inspections a year.

• Ask what type of report they will provide. Ask for a comprehensive report with pictures.

• Make sure they’re licensed and bonded and carry liability insurance.

Don’t just take their word on these things. Ask for proof and then call their insurance company and the licensing board for verification.

-Å

Most basements, by the sheer nature of the fact that they are built into the ground, present the possibility that water can intrude, turning what was once a dry basement into a wet basement. This is because water in the soil can put constant pressure on basement walls. Plus, water follows the path of least resistance inside a home and over time can find its way into a basement.

Throughout my real estate career, I've encountered more problems with wet foundations and basements than any other physical problem in a house.

Therefore, it's important when buying a house with a basement to check for signs of dampness in the basement. It's better to find out before you buy than afterwards, especially since you can't rely on seller disclosures. Why can't you rely on seller disclosures? Because the sellers might not know about it. If the sellers did have knowledge, however, and failed to disclose the water problems in a basement, it could be: • Difficult to prove in court • Take years to get into court • Expensive to sue • Very expensive to dry out the basement This is why you should always, without fail, get an independent home inspection by a qualified and accredited professional.

Signs of a Damp Basement Water stains along walls or floor.

This could be caused by something simple such as an overflowing laundry tub or

Call Rob Golfi today

3 8

How to Spot a Wet Basement

Selling your Home?

1 5

4 1

May 2010

or

905-575-7700

1 4 8

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.

“My real estate agent found me this place. I said I wanted a home that requires no yard work, no painting, no snow shoveling.

A place where the weather is perfect and neighbours never complain about my music...”

www.golfiteam.com

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Grimsby & Lincoln Rob Golfi* jusT lisTEd

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CODE # K288

WATERFRONT

CODE # NS188

CODE # K24

CODE # B14

$489,900 GRIMSBY 25 Acres Zoned Private Rec.

$1,075,000 GRIMSBY Extraordinary 4 Bedroom Custom

$222,900 GRIMSBY Bright & Beautiful End Unit!

$299,900 GRIMSBY Classic 2 Storey Home

Unique property zoned for private club recreational use; suitable for many types of organizations w/mutual picnic area.

Banquet/dance hall 2500 sqft with 12 ft ceilings, FP, full kitchen facilities, bar area, coat check, bathrooms & spacious bsmt for storage.

Approx 4800 sq.ft w/lakeviews. Oak kitchen w/granite counter-tops, blt-in appls & terra cotta tiles. Large family room, oak hrdwd, dining rm w/vaulted ceilings, living rm w/fp, main flr den, master with 5 pc ensuite & inground pool.

2 bdrm bungalow only 6 yrs old. Ceramic flrs & backsplash in eat-in kitchen, Living room w/gas FP, laundry hook-up on main level & professionally finished bsmt. Quiet complex w/quick access to the QEW. Won’t last!

Built in 1992. Approx. 1600 Sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms. Features incl. back yard w/stone patio & access from eat-in kit. Spacious family rm w/hrdwd floors & wood fireplace. Park-like setting on great lot! Close to schools, parks & QEW!

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CODE # M55

CODE # M457

CODE # B31

CODE # B4071

GRIMSBY $299,900 Impressive Top to Bottom!

GRIMSBY $549,900 Great Value - 1 Acre Lot

GRIMSBY $609,900 Escarpment Setting

BEAMSVILLE $349,900 Gorgeous 4 Bedroom

Amazing 3 bdrm home in great area! Fully finished w/recent updates. Bright eat-in kitchen w/large bay windpw, hrdwd on mn lvl & sliding drs from sep. din rm to priv. resort style bckyrd.

New furn(’10), shingles (’09) all vinyl wndws & fully fin’d bsmt.

3 bedroom, 3000 sqft all-brick beauty on 1 acre lot! Built in 1990, features incl. solid oak drs, trim & kitchen cabinets w/granite counter-tops.

Gleaming hrdwd flrs, finished basement, crown molding, 50 yr clay tile roof & 3000 gallon cistern.

Incredible 2900 sq ft all brick 4BR home backing onto escarpment. 9’ ceilings, gorgeous rich hardwoods, gleaming granite counters, gourmet Kitchen. Huge master with luxury 5pc ensuite. Professionally finished basement.

Finished top to bottom with huge maple kitchen with breakfast bar & oversized slider to 2-tiered decking. 4 spacious bedrooms, master with ensuite and walk-in closet. Quiet location close to parks in popular Bench Area.

CODE # S53

GRIMSBY $369,900 Walk to the Marina Gracious double door entry to this 2 storey 4 bedroom home. Sweeping Oak staircase to both upper and lower levels. Formal dining room & awesome family room, huge kitchen has ample counterspace and cabinetry.

CODE # PT77

CODE # K3619

$389,900 Open Concept

VINELAND $299,900 4 Bedroom 2-Storey

Wonderful 3 bedroom with upper level family room with gas fireplace. Large kitchen with triple garden doors to pressed concrete patio and fenced yard. Spacious master has 4pc ensuite and walk-in closet.

Scenic Wine Route location! Stately centre hall plan. 4 bedrooms, 2 fireplaces, formal living room and separate dining room. Updated oak kitchen has built-in appliances. Finished basement has walk-up to back yard.

CODE # M200

GRIMSBY

$324,900 Country Living

Country living close to town! 3+1 bedroom raised ranch on 120x165 lot. Huge kitchen with tons of cabinets and counterspace has slider to deck. Spacious rec room with cozy fireplace.

Great family home with room to roam.

GRIMSBY

WATERFRONT

CODE # SC7441

WEST LINCOLN $285,000 8.9 Acres of Country!

Unique stone front situated on a beautiful rural property that backs onto picturesque Chippawa Creek. 900 ft frontage on South Chippawa Rd offers great seclusion. 3 bedrooms, huge principle rooms, eat-in kit & sun room.

CODE # K5

GRIMSBY

$208,400 Quiet Location

Loads of potential and priced to move! New roof 09, refaced kitchen, windows 06. Spacious living room, separate dining room. Fenced yard, large 12 x 24 deck and parking for 6 cars!.

CODE # l71

CODE # K4993

GRIMSBY $1,499,900 2 Acre Lakefront

BEAMSVILLE $259,900 Prime Commercial

Huge waterfront lot! 3+1 bedroom home with additional self contained in law suite. Open concept great room with cathedral ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors and floor to ceilingwall to wall windows!

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.

WATERFRONT

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON CODE # C33

CODE # Y9597

CODE # D236

$649,900 Lakefront!!

WEST LINCOLN $229,900 Quiet Country Setting

GRIMSBY $349,900 Elegance & Charm

3+1 bedroom in Bal Harbour with gleaming hardwood floors and new broadloom. Great room has wall-to-wall windows and spectacular lake views. Several walkouts to backyard paradise with heated inground pool surrounded by amazing perennial gardens.

1,100 sq ft, 3 bedroom bungalow built in 2002.

Open and bright with high basement that's partially finished with 2 rooms and a rec room that just needs flooring. 3,000 gal cistern, gas furnace and 100amp breaker service. Close to Caistorville Golf Club.

Gorgeous 2 storey 3 bdrm family home boasts a bright foyer, ceramic floor, Palladian windows, 2.5 baths and fireplace in upper level family room. Main floor laundry, finished rec room, eat-kitchen and doors to private deck, concrete walk-way and fenced yard.

GRIMSBY

Call Today 905-945-0188

CODE # B227

GRIMSBY

$689,900 Country Living

Custom Colonial on 48 acres! 3 bedrooms with full finished attic. Master has 5pc ensuite with euro shower and spa tub plus cedar lined closet.

3/4" oak plank floors, solid birch kitchen with granite counters and cozy fireplace.

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May 2010

Rob Golfi* WATERFRONT

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CODE # F524

CODE # M484

CODE # W229

CODE # M426

$689,900 STONEY CREEK Exquisit Custom Built Home

$429,900 STONEY CREEK Lakefront Condo End Unit

$549,900 STONEY CREEK Designed with Style!

$229,900 STONEY CREEK Totally Renovated

3500 sq ft Gourmet European kitchen w/granite. Gleaming hardwood & custom tile. Luxurious master suite with 2 sided gas fireplace shared with 5pc ensuite. All 4 bedrooms have walk-in closets.

Luxury end unit condo with maple wash cabinetry, granite counters, tumbled marble backsplash, stainless appliances.

Maple floors, 9 ft. ceilings, 2 ensuites, private patio overlooking lake. 660 ft. of privacy on the water.

Former Model home. 4 bedrooms, den & loft, eat-in kit, formal living and dining rooms, awesome Fam rm open to 2nd flr. finshed basment.

Professionally Amazing landscaping.

Gleaming hrdwds, porcelain tiles, surround sound throughout, tons of upgrades.

Totally renovated Zoned Industrial Residential, ideal for many uses. Quick QEW access , huge fully fenced 75x200 ft lot. Spacious living room w/new laminate, eat-in kit, updated bath. New hi-eff furnace, 2yr old sump pump.

WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON CODE # W62

CODE # W28

CODE # l20

CODE # J478

STONEY CREEK $649,900 Exclusive Waterfront

STONEY CREEK $599,900 Thousands of Upgrades

STONEY CREEK $469,900 3 Bedroom Gem

STONEY CREEK $499,999 Executive with In-Law

Waterfront! Rare find on private lane close to Fifty Point Conservation area.

101ft of waterfront, park like setting and solid 3 bedroom bungalow. Substantial breakwall, well treed mature lot, amazing sunrises and sunsets included!

Opulent décor & finished top to bottom.

Maple and Granite custom kitchen, formal dining room, huge family room with gas fireplace. Master with 5pc ensuite. 4+1 bedroom. Impeccable landscaping with interlock, cabana & hot tub.

Waterfront!! Rare gem, 3 bedroom loaded with character, restorations underway! New kitchen (09), living room with beamed ceiling & pine plank floors 0throughout! Balcony with sliders from all 3 BRs upstairs, amazing lakeviews!

Incredible 3500 sqft, 4+1 bedroom, 2-storey home with in-law apartment on lower level. Features include main floor den, cathedral ceilings, luxury ensuite off master bedroom, dining room with wet bar, quick access to QEW.

WATERFRONT

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # T6

CODE # F5

CODE # rr35

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # H81301

uppER STONEY CREEK $479,900 Fantastic 4 Bedroom

STONEY CREEK $699,999 On Turtle Pond

STONEY CREEK $377,900 4+1 Bedroom

STONEY CREEK $239,900 Oversized Heated Garage

Very Cool Layout!! 4 bedrooms with spiral staircase and gleaming hardwood entry. Den, living room and formal dining room, family room with fireplace.

Resort like yard has built-in pool and interlock patio. Loads of updates!

Fantastic contemporary for 3 bedrooms and in-law with private entrance. Open concept, breathtaking design with quality custom finishes. Very private location backing on to Turtle Pond, a designated nature sanctuary.

Bright and immaculate. Fresh paint, crown moulding, porcelain tile and Kulm Hardwood. Eat-in kitchen, separate living and dining room. Main floor den and laundry. New shingles (08) and underground sprinkler system.

Southern Exposure & huge deck to enjoy it on!! 3 bedroom home with many updates, new Ikea kitchen! Freshly painted & loaded with character. Large workshop with heat & hydro. Many updates already completed, don’t miss out.

WATERFRONT

CODE # M1950

CODE # M1849

CODE # BV85

CODE # C41

HAMILTON WEST $83,900 Condo Apartment

HAMILTON EAST $309,900 3 Bedroom Raised Ranch

STONEY CREEK $749,9O0 Gorgeous Waterfront

HAMILTON EAST $139,900 Great Starter Home

Open and bright bachelor/studio condo apartment on main level. Close to McMaster and hospital. Perfect for student or nurse. Updated kitchen and bathroom. High ceilings. Secure building with front entrance with security camera. Visitors parking. One parking spot.

Exercise room and laundry.

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.

Investment or In-law potential.

2 renovated separate units plus 1 apartment. Updates include landscaping, newer roofing, decking, flooring, awnings, wiring, plumbing, kitchen and much more. Don’t miss out on this one of a kind opportunity.

Great starter close to all amenities. Eat-in kitchen with door to rear deck and yard.

Spacious living room. 2 bedrooms, one on the main level, the other very private on the upper level. The main floor den has been redone and is quite unique. Easy to maintain sized lot, side drive and shed.Copy

www.golfiteam.com

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Hamilton & Stoney Creek jusT lisTEd

CODE # C117

CODE # C174

CODE # T162

$179,900 HAMILTON A Handyman's Dream

$179,900 HAMILTON EAST Easy to Own

$154,900 HAMILTON EAST Just Move In!

Fabulous w/dream garage plus wrkshp.

Stunning kitchen w/brkfst bar, crown moulding, marble counters & slate bcksplsh. Updated furnace & main flr wndws ('10), shingles ('08), plus updated baths & flring. Huge master bdrm, private yard & parking for 4.

Cozy 1½ storey 3 bedroom home with updates galore! Awesome main floor family room. New ceramics and backsplash in fresh white kitchen. Master bedroom in converted attic space with ensuite. Oversized detached garage.

Everything is updated, just move in!

Refinished hardwood floors, new eaves and facia, furnace (06), C/Air, shingles (09), 100 amp on breakers, mostly vinyl windows. Eat-in kitchen w/French doors to large patio and landscaped yard.

jusT lisTEd

If you want it CODE # KF39

HAMILTON $269,900 Desirable Area Fantastic 1½ storey in desirable neighbourhood! Feats. gorgeous hrdwd under broadloom, mostly updated vinyl windows, new furnace (‘09), prof. fin’d bsmt converted into an in-law setup w/rear entry. Situated on large fenced yard.

SOLD Call Rob Golfi 905-575-7700 or visit

www.RobGolfi.com

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # l8

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # l61 $219,900

HAMILTON A Real Gem

Hamilton Gem! 4 bdrm, 2 bths plus up’ds! Newer vinyl wndws, furn & A/C (6 mths new) shingles (‘05). Hrdwd & ceramic in kit. Bright LR w/ 2 skylights.

Sliding dr to wlk-out deck in 4th bdrm & fenced yrd. Close to school & amenities.

CODE # H18

ANCASTER $589,900 Instant Appeal - 3 Bedrooms

HAMILTON $259,900 Pride of Ownership!

Incredible open concept 3 bedroom with opulent finishes. Gleaming dark hardwood, formal dining room, huge great room with fireplace. Kitchen w/granite counters and island breakfast bar, porcelain floors and garden doors to yard.

Spotless 3 bedroom family home backing onto park. Hardwood in bedrooms, 2 baths and 2 kitchens and possible in-law setup. Updated windows (09) and 415,000 aluminum roof (08). Fully fenced yard and walk to schools, shopping and buses.

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # W161

CODE # C143

CODE # F1028

CODE # T167

HAMILTON $199,900 Fabulous Semi

HAMILTON WEST $299,900 Ideal 3+1 bedroom Home

HAMILTON $217,900 Spacious 3+1 Bedroom

HAMILTON $159,900 Stunning Starter!

3 bdrm semi-detached bungalow! All brick & immaculate! Newer shingles, Eat-in kit w/ceramic, hrdwd flrs plus fully fn’d bsmt w/kit & bath. Potential in-law suite. Furn & C/A (06’) Fully fen’d yrd on lrg lot & concrete drv.

Potential student rental, minutes to Mac. Upgrades galore – brand new eat-in kitchen ('10) with granite counter tops, new appliances, private sunroom. New shingles ('07). Separate walk-out from basement studio-style apartment.

Brick bungalow! Updated eat-in kitchen w/ceramic floors & backsplash. Huge bedrooms & hrdwd floors thru-out upper level. Newer furnace & C/A ('02). Plus partially finished basement with in-law suite potential.

Stunning 3 bdrm in great location. Newer shingles, windows, doors (’06) & roof.

Updated canac eat-in kit, carpet, ceramic, bath & paint. Plus hydro on breakers, C/A, enclosed porch & side drive. Near park, school & amenities. Move in ready

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # W202

CODE # S160

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON CODE # r134

HAMILTON WEST $349,900 Walk to Mac

HAMILTON NORTH $99,900 3 Bedroom Super Semi

HAMILTON MOuNTAIN $329,900 4 Bedroom Backs on Park

HAMILTON EAST $329,900 4 Bedroom

Walk to Mac!! All brick 3+3 bedroom home! New shingles and windows. Hi effeciency furnace & C/Air (07), oversized water heater installed (05), newer plumbing & water line. Basement waterproofed. Ethernet/cable in all rooms!

Super Semi! Updated kitchen, bathroom, flooring, siding, newer shingles and furnace. Mostly vinyl windows, 100 amp breakers, double rear drive. With 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bath, it's ready to move in!

Fabulous neighbourhood for this 4 bedroom beauty. Backing onto parkland and situated on a huge lot, it’s the perfect family home. Huge principle rooms, fully finished basement, family room with gas fireplace and eat-in kitchen w/slider to deck.

Bright and open 4 bedroom close to all amenities. Formal dining room and Spacious living room. Eat-in Euro kitchcen has dinette and door to concrete patio and fenced yard. Family room w/woodstove insert. Main floor laundry.

Call Today 905-575-7700

CODE # S31

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Rob Golfi proudly supports McNally House and encourages you to support your Residential Hospice.

Installing a New Faucet

unteers who give their time and talents each week to help the residents and their families deal with life’s greatest challenges.

McNally House wishes to thank the community for their continued support.

Your contributions keep our doors open.

by: Joe Keca Home Improvement Group

U

pgrading the look of your bathroom or kitchen by installing a new faucet is a simple project. Most homeowners can tackle the project with some basic tools and a little plumbing knowledge. When installing a new faucet, keep the following information in mind.

Be sure to have all the necessary parts. Even though most residential faucets come complete with handles, a pop-up drain assembly and are ready to install, there are a number of connection parts are required and might need to be purchased separately. These include items such as the P-trap, water supplies and shut-off valves.

Spend some time under the sink making connections and tightening nuts, empty the area so you can work easier.

Also, make sure the faucet body is nice and square to the edge of the sink as you tighten nuts to secure the faucet.

If you are installing an undermount style sink on a thick marble base, you may require a faucet extension so that it lays flush with the surface. If you choose a pedestal or wall-mount sink where the fittings are exposed, you may want to coordinate the finish of the drain and P-trap with the rest of your faucets and fittings.

Some common installation tools include: • Basin wrench • Adjustable wrench • Silicone sealant - Plumber's Putty is not generally recommended • Teflon® tape • Channel locks • Screwdriver (Phillips and slotted) • Flashlight Before you begin, make sure you turn off the water supply valves to the faucet. This can be done usually by turning the valves off under the bathroom sink. Confirm the water is off by turning the faucet on and checking that no water flows from it.

Follow the installation manual that comes with your new faucet to remove the old faucet and install the new one.

When you are completed, turn the new faucet on and check for leaks above and below the sink. If any leaks are found, turn off the supply line valves and retighten the leaky fitting nuts. Then turn the supply lines back on and confirm that the leaks have stopped.

Joe Keca is a specialist in complete building and interior renovations with the Home Improvement Group. He can be reached at 905-309-5555.

-Å

RBC Offers New Mortgage Option for Canadians by: Sue Ippolito RBC Mortgage Specialist

O

ne of the biggest decisions facing Canadian homeowners is choosing between a fixed or variable rate mortgage, RBC has re-introduced a third option, called RateCapper, which provides an alternative for homeowners seeking the potential interest savings of a variable rate mortgage combined with the added security of a fixed rate mortgage.

With the RBC RateCapper mortgage, the interest rate over the five year term is based on the lower of Royal Bank of Canada's prime rate, currently at 2.25% per cent , and a set maximum rate, currently capped at 5.875% per cent.

"In today's rising rate environment, we have seen increased demand for mortgage options that provide additional rate protection" said Marica Moffat, vicepresident, home equity financing, RBC Royal Bank. "RateCapper gives homeowners the best of both worlds- they can

take advantage of a low prime rate, while at the same time locking in a guarantee they will never pay more than the 'capped rate' over the term of the mortgage , no matter how much the prime rate may rise."

"Economic conditions are strong enough that we expect the Bank of Canada to increase the overnight rate starting mid year" according to Paul Ferley, assistant chief economist RBC Economics.

The RateCapper is just one of several innovative home financing products and services offered by RBC. For advice about this product or any other mortgage questions you may have please call me.

Sue Ippolito RBC Mortgage Specialist Phone # 905-648-8567 Email sue.ippolito@rbc.com

To DONATE call: 905.309.4013 McNally House Hospice is a sixsuite, homelike residence providing, free of charge, 24-hour specialized palliative care to people living with a terminal illness as well as those in their life circle.

The hospice is a not-for-profit organization serving the Niagara West communities of Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln. Along with the highly skilled professional staff, McNally has 150 vol-

In the Hamilton area please support Dr. Bob Kemp, Centre for Hospice Palliative Care.

For more information about Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice please contact: 905.387.2448

Decluttering your home Puts More Money in your Pocket

I

t is a proven fact that a clean clutter free house will sell faster and for more money than a cluttered

house.

With faster paced life styles, buyers are demanding more from a seller than ever before, a repair free home is every buyers dream.

When a buyer comes to view your house they want to see clear of your junk, workable living space with neutral décor amongst other things, in most cases you have one opportunity to make that first impression.

Your house may be in great condition and well built, yet simple clutter, excess old furniture, overloaded closets, plain old junk everywhere create a perception of chaos, confusion, even disorder.

The purchase decision is an emotional as well as an intellectual one; Decisions to purchase one house instead of another are based on man different factors, when buyers see clutter and junk everywhere they may imagine that the house may have been neglected with more to repair then meets the eye, this perception may drive the homes true market value down.

Decluttering is an essential part of your preparation and goes hand in hand with your big move.

Before you list your house on the market, take a walk around look at it through the eyes of the buyer, rent a dumpster; throw out old junk and accumulated useless items, if its been in a box for 2 years chances are you really have no use for it.

Not combinable with other offers Limit one per pick-up

Restage your furniture; staging is a simple task you can accomplish on your own without hiring a professional, you can create a whole new look easily, besides you know better than anyone what your homes potential is after all you found great pleasure in owning it and already know its functionality.

Simple Start Curb Appeal, BIG WORDS THAT GO A LONG WAY, a simple outdoor tiding is usually all that’s required, clip back old and tired landscaping, clear walkways and yards of unsightly junk and garbage, wash down dirty siding, keep lawns cut Decluttering closets, very effective in showing your homes true storage capacity Clean out that garage so a car can really park in it Clear out the basement housing your unwanted junk, a buyer may view this area as living space Have a garage sale for good sellable items, this helps pay for the dumpster and moving costs Simplify your move, it will be easier without taking all that unwanted junk with you and much cheaper to move, create the openness and space your buyers so long for and love.

When it comes to selling your house less really is more.

Article brought to you by Advantage Waste Systems & Bulk Boyz 1-877-910-2929.

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Maximum Exposure Sells Your Home Call the Golfi Team to get your Home Sold 905-575-7700 or 905-945-0188 www.golfiteam.com The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada.

BULK BOYZ

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Home Staging A Must in Todays Competitive Market

MarketWa tch-Dog MarketWatch-Dog

by: Sheri Gamble, Details Event Coordination Inc.

T

he old saying that you only get one chance to make a good first impression certainly rings true for homeowners selling their homes in today’s market. With so many homes to choose from, you need to “stand out” amongst the competition.

Creating a positive, pleasing first impression is the key to selling your home. Studies have shown that most buyers make a decision about a house within 15 seconds of walking in the door.

Staging is beyond cleaning and decorating. It’s about creating the perfect atmosphere and environment for the new homeowners. Staging makes your house look warmer, brighter, more spacious, well maintained and best of all, prospective home buyers feel welcomed and can picture themselves living in the space.

After a consultation with the homeowners to determine the needs and budget, many different techniques can be executed to successfully stage the property.

Decluttering, depersonalizing, updating décor and rearranging furniture are some of the elements used to showcase a home to its full potential.

Professional home stagers ultimately know and understand the enhancements required in order to market the home most efficiently. They also can suggest

appropriate home improvements to further increase the value of the listing.

Home stagers will utilize their inventory of retailers and suppliers who partner with them to ensure the end results meets your expectations and stays within your budget.

Due to the popularity of home makeover television programs, consumers are becoming increasingly familiar with interior design trends. As a result, Canadians now expect more when shopping for a new house.

Home staging is the best way to make a dramatic impact without having to spend a lot of money. Often the additional gain will far outweigh the cost of staging.

Now that the spring market has arrived, you may want to consider making an investment in your home! Details Event Coordination is ready to help.

Sheri Gamble and Gwen Kennedy are Home Stagers and Event Planners with Details Event Coordination. They can be reached at 905.632.2602 or via email at sheri@detailseventco.com or gwen@detailseventco.com.

Or visit their website at www.detailseventco.com.

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.

Page 7

Each issue, The Golfi Team will showcase a ‘MarketWatch-Dog’; a family companion from one of our current listings.

A bit about “Neko” 6 year old Neko is an attractive mix of Husky and German Shepard. He spent puppy-hood and his younger years working as the employee motivator and guard dog at a Rural Agricultural plant.

With long hot hours and tedious work, the employees always looked forward to Neko’s happy disposition & wagging tail, rewarding him with a good ol’ scratch behind the ears or bite from lunch.

Several years ago when it came time to close the plant, amongst heartfelt goodbyes, Neko’s heated dog house was moved over to the ‘Big House’ where he began his new position: Homeland Security – a promotion of sorts.

Accustomed to enjoying lunch and breaks with the guys at the plant, the transition of dining alone is a challenge for Neko. When his dinner is presented to him, he will walk away unless whoever the chef du jour is takes a seat nearby and talks to Neko while he eats, telling him just how lovely this bowl of food is and that he’s such a good boy.

Although Neko enjoys a quieter lifestyle now without the hustle of industry, he does love when visitors come by. From his position of authority at the top of the winding drive, he is quick to spot an approaching car and although he looks every bit in charge as he paces & bounds back and forth, this handsome fellow is actually searching frantically for a toy to greet this visitor and entice them into a little play time. A daily visitor he watches for is the early morning Newspaper carrier, his pal. The two have come up with a game where the carrier greets Neko and hands him the paper wrapped in it’s customary blue bag, he tells Neko what a good dog he is, then he leaves and Neko is to deliver the paper to the front door.

Apparently Neko doesn’t quite get the program, or perhaps he has his own game; regardless, the newspaper seldom makes it to the door. ‘Find your Newspaper’ is a treasure hunt game Neko plays often with his owners, and some days he just takes the paper into his doghouse to have a good read himself.

A devoted worker who takes his job very seriously, The Golfi Team is pleased to have Neko as our Marketwatch Dog!

look for our next MarketWatch-dog in the next issue of Market Watch!

The Golfi team supports SPCA’s of Ontario.

Home Evaluation No Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi Today!

905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188 Not intended to solicit proper ties cur rently listed for sale.

The Golfi Team is Ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada RE/MAX has over 18,000 Sales Representatives in Canada

www.golfiteam.com

Heather Reid Rob Golfi Sharon Stafford Hans Marcelissen Sales Representative Sales Representative Sales Representative Sales Representative

Wendy MurrayNicholson Sales Representative

Penny Bryce Sales Representative

MarketWatch May 2010_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 09/05/10 11:54 AM Page 8

Page 8

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

FeatureHome

Rob Golfi*

DESIGNED WITH STYLE

F

abulous location South of Hwy #8 amongst the everchanging backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment. Convenience of city with tremendous urban appeal.

DeSantis quality built former model home has all the perks of being the model for the subdivision. Classic French door entry to a bright 2 story foyer with neutral porcelain tiles that lead thru the kitchen, which has been upgraded with an inlay design.

French doors can be found throughout the main level. Incredible staircase with carved Oak banisters is located in the center of the floor plan & leads to an equally amazing upper level that overlooks both the family room and front foyer. Formal living

May 2010

room & spacious separate dining room with bump out for buffet will accommodate any size gathering, both rooms with upgraded broadloom. Showcase family room has gleaming dark hardwood & soaring ceilings open to the upper level. A cozy gas fireplace is flanked on either side by tall windows filling the room with afternoon sunshine. The main floor den is located off the family room, ideal for the computer. An eatin kitchen with solid wood cabinetry in a soft birch finish, lighted corner unit to display your treasures, large pantry, under & over cabinet lighting & built-in wine rack. From the kitchen, a slider to covered cedar deck with fan & lighting, hot tub, & mature landscaping planted with

perennials promising minimal effort for maximum enjoyment.

Convenience of main floor laundry and inside entry to a heated double car garage. Upstairs, 4 bedrooms & reading loft, bright with sunlight, open and airy. Spacious Master suite has a 4pc ensuite, walk-in closet & vaulted ceiling. Professionally finished basement with rec room, games area, 3pc bath & ample storage.

Extras include crown moldings, pot lighting, built-in surround sound with individual controls in some rooms, alarm system, concrete drive & pressed concrete walkway both front and back. Rob Golfi today at 905575-7700 for a private viewing and thank you for visiting my website, looking forward to hearing from you.

229 Winona Road, Stoney Creek Price:

$549,900

Taxes:

$5,097.80 (2009)

Lot Size:

59.45' x 121.5'

House Size:

2700 sq ft plus fully finished basement

Re/Max Escarpment Realty Inc., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated

The Golfi Team is Ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada RE/MAX has over 18,000 Sales Representatives in Canada

905-575-7700

Heather Reid Rob Golfi Sharon Stafford Hans Marcelissen Sales Representative Sales Representative Sales Representative Sales Representative

Wendy MurrayNicholson Sales Representative

Penny Bryce Sales Representative