WHAT’S INSIDE: First Time Buyers are a Major Market Force
PAGE 6
HOMES FOR SALE | PAGE 3 Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook LUXURY & WATERFRONT | PAGE 9
HOMES FOR SALE | PAGE 5 Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Niagara RENTALS | PAGE 8
December 2014 - Vol 71
Rob Golfi Sales Representative
HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION 905-575-7700
905-945-0188
Page 2
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
December 2014
about Rob Golfi
R
ob’s career in real estate began in October 1997 and putting the needs of his clients first has always been a primary principle. Rob joined RE/MAX Escarpment January 1st 1999. As his career grew and with changing times in the marketplace, Rob realized that the team concept was the next step in order to maintain the same level of service that his clients had come to expect. Hence, “The Golfi Team” was formed, comprised of a select group of individuals who work well together and share Rob’s team philosophy. In 2003, the team received the prestigious honour of being in the top 100 Real Estate Teams for RE/MAX Canada*. And this status continues to date*. Rob has received every major award available at RE/MAX including the Diamond Club (2010-2012)*, 100% Club (1999-2001)*, Platinum Club (2002)*, Chairmans Club (2003-2009)*, Hall of Fame (Inducted in 2003)*, and the Lifetime Achievement Award (Inducted in 2006)*, Circle of Legends (2013).* Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills are key in this business. Any agent can list your house, but Rob’s knowledge and ability to negotiate constructively gives his clients peace of mind in dealing with the single most important investment in their lives. Rob has an extensive marketing background that compliments his real estate career. He has achieved an impressive visual identity in the market place. Rob also prides himself on his ability to stay current with in the industry and to remain competitive in the marketplace. His hard work and dedication has awarded him the honour of consistently ranked in the Top 5 of nearly 2500 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington and Niagara Area since (2003).** Currently (2013)* Rob is ranked Number 1 in transactions sales ends in the Hamilton-Burlington and Niagara Area.
where the future takes shape
Seniors Real Estate Specialist is a designation for RealTORS® to address the needs of home buyers and sellers, age 50-plus.
If you are buying or selling a home,
contact Rob Golfi today.
Rob Golfi SaleS RepReSe nTaTive
905-575-7700
visit www.GolfiTeam.com
“Each client is always treated with First Class Service.”
Check out our Blog for the latest information in Real estate
*Based on RE/MAX Ontario Atlantic Canada annual commission criteria **Based on The Real Estate Association of Hamilton-Burlington total transactions January 1, 2003 – March 31, 2013.
We SELL more... because we DO more! THE ULTIMATE SELLING TEAM SHarOn StaFFOrD
HanS MarCELISSEn
WEnDY MUrraYnICHOLSOn
MIkE MCnEIL
Dan GOLFI
JEFF GOLFI
ROB GOLFI SaleS RepReSenTaTive
ErIC PInI, B.a.
LaUra BIELak
www.GolfiTeam.com |
JEnnIFEr DraHO
PEnnY CIarDELLI
Hank BaLFOOrt
905.575.7700 |
www. GolfiTeam .com
1.800.288.9184
December 2014
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 3
Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook
STONEY CREEK
$334,900
DuNDAS
$449,900
STONEY CREEK MTN
$494,900
BuRLINgTON
Rob Golfi*
$2,000,000
14 Roselle Place
67 Turnbull Road
7 Lyngate Court
422 Guelph Line
Prime location! Great 1.5 storey home in desirable Stoney Creek location. Located in a Quiet Cul de sac with plenty of updates including roof ’01, furnace ’06, new paint '14, new front deck '14, and large fenced yard. Huge driveway to build a large garage. Don't miss this one. It won't last!
First time offered, original owner, lrg 4 bedrm, 2 storey home on prime street in Dundas. Main floor offers large family room, formal LR/DR and separate den, 3 piece ensuite, large bedrooms, double car garage. Needs updating.
4+1 BR on a court location. Finished basement w/rec rm, full bath, kitch & walk up. Features engineered hardwd, crown moulding, California Shutters, covered patio. Updates: kitch w/granite, baths, C/A, furnace, most windows.
High Traffic corner location. Established Bowling Alley (5-pin, 2-levels) currently. Rear parking plus municipal. May be assembled with 418 Guelph Line for apx. 1 acre of land on busy corner. Do not go direct. Contact LA for details of assemblage.
$1,338 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$1,797 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$1,977 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$7,988 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
HAMILTON CTR
$184,900
HAMILTON CTR
$1,099,000
29 Nightingale Street
3-7 Connaught Avenue South
BIG HOUSE LITTLE PRICE!! Used as a two family, upstairs pays $755.00 month utilities included, downstairs pays $890.00 month utilities included. Tenants would like to stay. No lease, month to month. Basement level vacant. Big side drive. Third floor used as storage. Seller will only warrant single family use.
Fantastic opportunity to own a 12 unit apartment building. New roof, windows & Furnace updates. 6-1 bedroom and 6-2 bedroom units. Separate meters. Tenants pay hydro. $4,390 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$739 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
HAMILTON wEST
$479,900
25 Cline Avenue North Beautiful 3+1 bedroom home in Westdale! Custom kitch/granite counters/refinished hardwood floors, landscaped yard, interlocking patio. Furnace, C/A & HWT in 2010, updated plumbing stack, sewer line relined, spray foam insulated in back rm crawl space, completely re-wired to code 2010, new roof 2013. $1,917 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
HAMILTON EAST
$269,900
$194,500
STONEY CREEK
HAMILTON CTR
$246,900
$369,900
511 #8 Highway, Unit #208
18 Rose Crescent
GORGEOUS 2 bedrm terrace condo in prime Stoney Creek neighbourhood. The balcony can be accessed from both main floor & master bedroom. Hardwood floors in living room, bedroom level laundry, eat-in kitchen, well located in a small 21 unit complex. Close to Hwy access, bus, school, parks and all amenities. All appliances included.
ONE FLOOR HOME in a quiet neighbourhood of Stoney Creek! Feat. hardwood floors, central vac, finished rec room w/full bath, concrete paved driveway, beautifully landscaped w/fully fenced yard plus 18 ft. above ground pool. Updates incl: roof, windows, doors, central air. $1,477 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$777 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
$259,900
STONEY CREEK
$249,900
27 Frederick Avenue
81 Kilbourn Avenue
338 Barton Street
Great starter home near Centre mall, Tim Hortons field, transportation and elementary school. Featuring a double stamped concrete drive and walkway and great deck. Dropdown stairs for attic storage, updated kitchen, laminate flooring and partially finished basement with finished laundry room.
Great starter or retirement home! Bungalow in desirable Cherry Heights neighbourhood in Stoney Creek. Updates include: new windows and kitchen along with newer floors on main level and furnace 2006.
First Time Buyers! Ready to move in. Home features 3+1 bedrooms, renovated bathrm, updated windows, hardwd flooring, new kitchen backsplash, new roof 2013, newer furnace & completely fenced-in backyard. Don’t wait!.
$1,038 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$998 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$986 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
BuRLINgTON
$579,900
423 Osborne Street
3191 Renton Road
GORGEOUS RENOVATED BUNGALOW! Hickory Hardwood & porcelain tile throughout. Stylish new kitchen w/high end sinks, faucets, caesarstone counters & glass backsplash. Huge recrm & lots of storage. Close to Red Hill, QEW and waterfront. Move in ready, quick close available!
FANTASTIC NEIGHBOURHOOD! Updated 3 BR home in Headon Forest area! Open concept LR/family rm, eat-in kitch, master w/ensuite & walk in closet. Priv. fenced in yard w/new patio. Upgrades: finished basement, new hardwd & tiling throughout, new windows, new furnace, new C/A, new water heater. Roof replaced in ‘09.
$1,078 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
STONEY CREEK
$449,900
45 Bellagio Avenue 3 bedrm 1 year old home with a ton of builder’s upgrades. Stunning kitchen, engineered hardwd & upgraded ceramics. Loft area features a bright skylight. Home is across from park & close to shopping, schools & highway access $1,797 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
$649,900
28 South Meadow Crescent LAVISH FROM TOP TO BOTTOM! Custom built, elegant home boasts pride of ownership throughout. This 2 storey home sits on 54x145 ft lot and features family size kitchen w/granite counters & butler pantry, showcase fireplace in family rm. Stamped concrete drive & patio w/oversized dbl garage. $2,596 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$2,316 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
HAMILTON
$199,900
HAMILTON EAST
$949,900
113 Cameron Avenue North
1087 Beach Boulevard
PRIME HAMILTON EAST LOCATION!! Hamilton`s newest hot location, used as two family, some recent updates furnace/C/A 2012, shingles, baths 2006. Rear three car parking with easy access from street. Two bedrooms on main floor & one bedroom with living room (vacant) were getting 750.00/month w/utilities included.
TRENDY BEACH BLVD – Spectacular & luxurious best describes this awesome beauty! Executive free hold townhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishes through-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, and oversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington & quick access to QEW
$798 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$3,794 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
$399,900
BuRLINgTON
$1,799,999
723 Ridge Road
6195 Milburough Line
BEAUTIFUL ESCARPMENT VIEWS! Prime location on Ridge Road, close to all amenities. This property has a home suitable for renting or building your dream home. Buyer to satisfy themselves with building permits & costs.
CLASSIC GEORGIAN COLONIAL MANOR with picturesque tree-lined private driveway. Featuring gleaming hardwd, entertainers kitchen, stunning great room with 14 ft ceiling, and custom millwork and trim thru-out. Upstairs you will find 4 spacious bedrms all featuring their own ensuite, as well as bedroom level laundry.
$1,597 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
Call Today 905-575-7700
$7,189 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
Page 4
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
How to Sell a Home That Didn’t Sell
MUST SELL • • • •
Estate Sales Bank Foreclosures Company-Owned Properties Distress Sales
Free List with Pictures www.HamiltonDistressSales.com
HAMILTON/NIAGARA – If your home has just come off the market and hasn’t sold, don’t be discouraged. The reason your home did not sell may have nothing to do with your home or the market. In reality, your home may have been one of the most desirable properties for sale. So Why Didn’t Your Home Sell? Last year almost half of the homes listed for sale never sold at all, and many sellers found that there was a tremendous amount a homeowner needed to be educated on to sell their home for top dollar in the shortest time period. Don’t risk making the wrong choices and losing both time and money on your investment. Before you hire a realtor, know the right questions to ask to save you time and money. Industry experts have prepared a free special report called “How to Sell a House that Didn’t Sell” which educates you on the issues involved. Please visit www.CouldntSell.com
Fixer-upper HOMeS FOr SALe These homes need work. Free list with pictures. www.HamiltonFixerUpper.com
11 Critical Home Inspection Traps To Be Aware Before Listing Your Home For Sale HAMILTON - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale.
Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you,
you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable preinspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and
unmanageable ones. To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To order your free copy of this report visit www. HamiltonInspectionPitfalls.com
December 2014
27 Quick & Easy Fix Ups to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar HAMILTON/NIAGARA – Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible. To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace. Through these 27 tips, you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the most profit possible. In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, you get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home. You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money. How to order your free copy of this report, check us out online at
www.hamilton27tips.com
Homes For Sale Bungalows & Raised Ranches Two Storeys • Semis & Town Homes HamILTOn EaST
HamILTOn mTn
HamILTOn CTR
STOnEy CRk upR
STOnEy CRk LWR
GRImSBy
LInCOLn
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $119,900 32 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $199,900 63 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $79,997 14 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $329,999 4 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 27 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $269,900 22 available
Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 29 available
Two Storeys Starting at $154,900 13 available
Two Storeys Starting at $259,900 82 available
Two Storeys Starting at $96,500 100 available
Two Storeys Starting at $299,900 28 available
Two Storeys Starting at $299,900 54 available
Two Storeys Starting at $307,000 44 available
Two Storeys Starting at $309,900 28 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $154,900 15 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $159,900 37 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $84,900 17 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $226,900 20 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $179,900 28 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $243,900 10 available
Semis & Town Homes Starting at $79,900 17 available
Call Us Today for information on any of these Homes!
905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188 Call Today 905-945-0188
December 2014
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 5
Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara
gRIMSBY
$549,900
NIAgARA FALLS
$649,900
wELLAND
$199,900
Rob Golfi*
ST. CATHARINES
$139,000
572 Ridge Road West
6246 Tesla Court
810 Clare Avenue, Unit 4
23 Richmond Avenue
2.35 Acres of good living. Property features a storey & a half home w/ updated large country kitchen, good size living rm & dining rm. Main floor also featuring 2 bedrms & main bathrm. Master bedrm upstairs. Let the kids run on the large property with paddocks and 2 barns.
Executive home! Tons of detail in this 2 storey finished home. Prof finished exterior, finished basement, 2 master suites, designer kitchen with butler & walk-in pantries. Complete package with desired finishes and features.
North Welland renovated townhouse backing onto walking trail. New carpet, lighting, polished hardwood floors and fresh paint throughout. 2 spacious bedrooms with private balconies. Concrete block construction and dedicated parking. Shows brand new!
For first time buyers or the growing family! Large 3 bedroom, 2 bath home close to all amenities. No carpet. Original hdwd flrs thru-out, freshly painted. Large kitchen with huge gourmet island. Great backyard, fully fenced. Updates: shingles '12, furnace 9 years new, vinyl windows and newly updated front porch. Amazing home!
$2,596 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$2,196 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$798 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$555 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
gRIMSBY
$955,000
BEAMSVILLE
$324,900
143 Lake Street
5082 Charles Street
FABULOUS FIND – Exclusive listing to the Golfi Team. Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot on private cul-de-sac, build your dream home on the shores of lake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lot line.
3+1 renovated home in great neighbourhood. Updates include kitchen with granite counters & ceramic floors, baths, refinished hardwood flooring, windows, carport converted to garage. In-law potential or additional family living space in the basement. $1298 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$3,814 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
5.5 AcRES
BEAMSVILLE
$159,900
BEAMSVILLE
$159,900
1 Meadowood Lane
2 Meadowood Lane
BUILDING LOT RARE FIND - Fantastic opportunity to build your dream home on this 57.00 x 108.00 ft lot! Sewer and water to lot line. Buyer pays town, regional charges and park dedication plus building permit. Subject to severance in progress.
BUILDING LOT RARE FIND - Fantastic opportunity to build your dream home on this 50.00 x 108.00 ft lot! Sewer and water to lot line. Buyer pays town, regional charges and park dedication plus building permit.. Subject to severance in progress. $639 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$639 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
Due Diligence Required
BEAMSVILLE
$989,900
P/L#23 Durham Road ZONED LIGHT INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL with 5.5 acres and 602 feet of frontage on Durham Rd. $3,954 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
ST. CATHARINES
$379,900
$243,900
47 Lakeside Drive
91 Livingston Avenue, Unit #1
Beautiful lakefront property! Double car garage with 1 bedroom apartment, in-ground pool (as is) and garden. Landscaped yard leads to beach. Buyer to do “due diligence” with building permits, zoning, site influences, conservation authority and property restrictions. Municipal services available at the road. Taxes “not set”.
End unit townhouse features family room w/ gas fireplace & sliding doors to balcony, oversized kitchen, generous size bedrooms, freshly painted. Recent updates incl. kitchen w/ backsplash, new flooring in the kitchen, dining room & bedroom level.
$1,517 per/mth P&I / O.A.C. VAcANT cOmmERciAl lOT
gRIMSBY
5 AcRES
VINELAND
$399,700
3869 Victoria Avenue Turn of the century home w/ beautiful trim, crown mould, rich hardwoods, French doors, character front porch. Granite kitchen counter, added on fmily room w/ kitchenette & office. Carriage house perfect for the live/work environment $1,596 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$974 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
WATERFRONT
Docking Rights Available!
BEAMSVILLE
$99,900
PELHAM
$699,900
4946 Maple Avenue
571 Poth Street
VACANT COMMERCIAL LOT 40x140 ft. located walking distance to downtown Beamsville and QEW. Services are on the road. Call Rob Golfi today at 905-945-0188 for a private viewing. Thank you for visiting my website and I look forward to hearing from you
5 ACRE PROPERTY w/ large 4 bedrm home & barn w/ stalls. Home feat liv/rm, dinrm, eat-in maple kitchen, main flr master suite & fin bsemnt. Outdoor feat large pond, barn w/ 5 stalls, run in shed, 2 paddocks & exercise ring $2,795 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$399 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
2.8 AcRES
wAINFLEET
FORT ERIE
$799,900
$389,900
2.8 ACRES OF COUNTRY LIVING with pond. Updated 2 storey country charmer. This home has it all, 4 bedroom, 2 full baths, large eat-in kitchen, main floor office, laundry and mudroom. Outside features a lovely wrap-around porch and 4 car garage. $1,557 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
FORT ERIE
$899,900 1 11th Street
BREATHTAKING VIEWS ON 2 ACRES! 4+1 BR home features Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigation sprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator, furnace 6yrs, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & a nicely landscaped yard! Docking rights available!
BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuilt Waterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3 bedrms & 2 baths in a . Large master suite w/ensuite, two main floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area, spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. Turn the key & leave w/this zero maintenance freehold property!
$3,194 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
40830 Forks Road
gRIMSBY
3723 Niagara River Parkway
$3,591 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
BUilDiNG lOT
$849,900
ST. CATHARINES
$172,900
1645 Niagara Parkway
63 Canterbury Drive
CUSTOM BUILT HOME facing the Niagara River, four large bedrooms, plus finished attic with roughed in bath for a fifth bedroom. Solid oak doors and trim throughout. Unspoiled basement with walkout. New C/A, Furnace ‘01. Roof ‘05. Does not disappoint!
OPPORTUNITY HAS KNOCKED!! 4 level back split with 3 or 4 bedrooms. Walkout to beautiful backyard. Shows very nice, many updates & quick closing available. Walk to park, quiet street. .
$3,395 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$691 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
Call Todaywww.golfiteam.com 905-945-0188
BEAMSVILLE
$399,900
Academy Street RM2 ZONING – ¾ acre land site centrally located downtown area, permitted uses apartment dwelling, boarding or lodging dwelling, home for the aged, nursing home, group home, private home daycare. Call for details on permitted uses. $1,597 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
Page 6
Feature Home
GRIMSBY December 2014 $899,900
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
1 - 11TH STREET
WATERFRONT
BEAuTIFIL LAKE VIEwS
BIggER THAN IT LOOKS! This 2200 sq ft waterfront Retreat with 180° views of Lake Ontario features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in a completely rebuilt home. Large master suite on the whole upper floor with ensuite, 2 main floor bedrooms, 3pc powder room, 2-level living area, spacious dining room, & over sized chef’s gourmet kitchen. Turn the key & leave with this zero maintenance freehold property!
First Time Buyers are a Major Market Force
C
anada’s decade-long housing boom shrank to a three-way race this year with Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver the only markets still showing better-than-average growth. As we head into 2015, the field has shrunk to two. The collapse of oil prices is denting the Alberta economy, hurting the prospects of those living in its biggest city. The Canadian Real Estate Association said last week that the average price of a Calgary home was 9.5 per cent higher in October than a year
ago. But as Robert Kavcic, an economist with BMO Capital Markets, told the Calgary Herald, what’s in the rear view mirror ain’t what lies ahead . Should we be worried, too? I don’t think so. Price increases will moderate as interest rates slowly rise, but that’s no cause for panic. Home ownership is about a place to live, so the horizon should be long. While the big gains for condo investors may be over, for those who plan to live and work in Canada’s largest and
most desirable city, waiting probably won’t help. If they’re forming households or just tired of paying rent, they might as well pay themselves first. That’s the prime law of personal finance. This year, Toronto house prices are on track for another record. They were up almost 9 per cent in October compared to a year earlier driven by a shortage of listings. The average home price in the GTA was $587,000.
The driving force as we all know is a rock-bottom interest rate. Mortgage rate aggregator Ratehub.ca was quoting a fiveyear fixed mortgage Monday through Canwise Financial at 2.69 per cent. If you borrow $400,000, the monthly payment is $1,830 at that rate. A five-year mortgage at less than 3 per cent offers insurance against a weakening market and time to chip away at the mortgage principal. An annual study by the Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals confirms that first-time buyers are thinking along those lines. Far from being naïve, they’re aware of the risk and coming in with hefty down payments (as they historically do) and locking in for longer terms. CAAMP says about eight out of 10 borrowers are opting for fixed, longer-term mortgages, typically five years. CAAMP finds that about half of the Canadians buying homes this year were first-time buyers. Their average down payment was 21 per cent of the home’s cost. The big down payment also allows most buyers to avoid Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. insurance. While that has been pretty consistent for several decades, what’s changing is how young people are coming up with the cash. They’re finding it harder to save enough to keep ahead of price increases, so they’re relying more on gifts and loans from parents and grandparents.
Call Today 905-575-7700
By Adam Mayers Personal Finance Editor, The Star
December 2014
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 7
Top 6 Reasons Why Now is the Best Time to Sell: 1) Supply & Demand: During the Holiday Season there are significantly less homes on the market. Less supply means less competition. Less competition means more money in your pocket and faster sales. 2) Holiday emotions: Buying is an emotional purchase and emotions tend to run high during the Holiday Season. Strategically, having the opportunity to work off a buyer’s emotion is in your favor...they tend to offer a higher price when emotions are involved. 3) Low interest rates: The interest rates are incredibly low, which allows a buyer to afford more in the market. When rates are low, buyers tend to present higher purchase offers. Not to mention, Mortgage interest rates are headed UP, which will drastically impact your BUYING POWER. 4) Beat the rush: Most sellers wait to list after the first of the year, which causes a lot of new inventory in January. The longer you wait, the more competition you create for yourself. You can expect a flood of new inventory in the first quarter of 2015. As supply increases, your likelihood of getting an offer at an acceptable price decreases.
5) Relocation: Companies typically bring in new talent starting in the beginning of the year. These new hires are looking at property now. You must be on the market to take advantage of these buyers. 6) Serious Shopping: Tire kickers do not like the cold and will stay home. Serious buyers do not have a choice. They must buy now and will brave the elements to make it happen. Picture the buyer who puts on her hat, gloves, boots, scarf, and winter coat to go look at homes in 3 feet of snow and in the middle of a snow storm. Are they buying or “just looking”? I think you know the answer. Selling during the winter months keeps the neighbors and looky loos out of the process and attracts only serious buyers to your home; making the showing process much easier. And remember, listing your home now doesn't mean you need to move out today. In fact, the average time frame from list date to move out date is nearly 90 days.
Crossword puzzle (Solution on Page 10)
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Across 1 Expose as pretentious (6) 4 Resembling a horse (6) 9 Butterfly — ruler (7) 10 Eat away (5) 11 Strong and healthy (5) 12 Deliberately forget (7) 13 Cloth model, digitally operated (5,6) 18 Funny little teasers (7) 20 Strong twisted cotton thread (5) 22 Succulent — risqué — lucrative (5) 23 Dross — twaddle (7) 24 Sewer (6) 25 West Country city (6)
8 2
6
9
8
5
6 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.
Page 8
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
December 2014
Rentals FOR lEASE
SMITHVILLE
FOR lEASE
$1,300/MTH
Rob Golfi* FOR lEASE
FOR lEASE
HAMILTON
$1,450/MTH
HAMILTON
HAMILTON
$1,500/MTH
$4,400/MTH
1083 Beach Boulevard
105 Anastasia Boulevard
105 Vennio Lane
52 Gainsborough Road
New 2 Bedroom Semi-detached brick bungalow on corner lot for Lease. Open concept w/ ceramic floors in foyer & kitchen. Berber carpet in bedrooms and living room. Large french doors opening to large backyard. Updated kitchen with floating island. Stainless Steel appliances included. Credit check, references & letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.
Beautiful all brick 2 storey semi-detached home for lease. 3 bedroom, 2½ bath & fully finished basement. Master bedroom with ensuite. Close to Redhill and all amenities. Credit check, references & letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.
Beautiful 3 bedrm semi-detached home for lease in desirable area. The main flr & upstairs available for rent with all utilities included! Features: bedrm level laundry, eat-in kitchen and many upgrades. Within walking distance to Eastgate Square. Quick access to QEW & Redhill. Credit check, references and letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.
TRENDY BEACH BLVD – Spectacular & luxurious best describes this awesome beauty! Executive free hold townhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishes through-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, and oversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington & quick access to QEW. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.
FOR lEASE ED
ED
lEAS
HAMILTON
$1,575/MTH
gRIMSBY
ED
lEAS
$1,500/MTH
STONEY CREEK
lEAS
$1,800/MTH
HAMILTON
89 West 28th Street
541 Winston Road, Unit #16
43 Riviera Ridge
DESIRABLE WEST MOUNTAIN LOCATION! 3 bedrm, finished basement, appliances incl., carport, walk to schools & parks. Rental application, proof of income, non-smoker, tenant responsible for utilities, lawn maintenance and snow removal. 1 year minimum lease. Tenant to have contents and liability insurance.
Beautiful 2 storey townhome for lease. 3 bedrm, 2.5 bath, hardwd flooring & ceramics, 9’ ceilings, berber carpet upstairs. Quick access to QEW. 1st & last month’s rent, credit check, references & letter of employment req’d. Tenant is to have contents & liability insurance.
FOR LEASE! Large 1.5 storey home finished top to bottom. Main floor bdrm w/ensuite, updated kitch, vaulted ceilings & gas fireplce in living rm. Fully finished bsmnt, fenced yard w/lrg deck w/retractable awning. Seconds from QEW. Credit Check, references & letter of employment required. Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.
YOUR HOME
SOLD
$1,400/MTH
328 Woodward Avenue UPDATED 3 BR BUNGALOW! Open concept kitch looking into LR & master BR at the back of house. 2 parking spots avail. Close to bus stop, access to the Red Hill & QEW. Available for immed. possession. Credit Check, references & letter of employment req’d. Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.
GUARANTEED* OR WE BUY IT *Certain conditions apply
In 2013, Rob and his team were #1 for transaction sales in
Hamilton, Burlington and surrounding areas!**
Call US today to get your home SOLD!
905.575.7700
** Real Estate stats from RE Datum stats
Rob Golfi Sales Representative
SHarOn StaFFOrD
HanS MarCELISSEn
WEnDY MUrraYnICHOLSOn
MIkE MCnEIL
Dan GOLFI
JEFF GOLFI
ErIC PInI, B.a.
LaUra BIELak
JEnnIFEr DraHO
PEnnY CIarDELLI
Hank BaLFOOrt
Not intended to solicit buyers & sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
www. GolfiTeam .com
December 2014
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
Page 9
Luxury Homes & Waterfront Properties WATERFRONT
WATERFRONT
WATERFRONT
Rob Golfi*
WATERFRONT
Docking Rights Available!
HAMILTON EAST
$949,900
gRIMSBY
$899,900
1087 Beach Boulevard
1 11th Street
TRENDY BEACH BLVD – Spectacular & luxurious best describes this awesome beauty! Executive free hold townhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishes through-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, and oversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington & quick access to QEW
BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuilt Waterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3 bedrms & 2 baths in a . Large master suite w/ensuite, two main floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area, spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. Turn the key & leave w/this zero maintenance freehold property!
$849,900
FORT ERIE
$799,900
1645 Niagara Parkway
3723 Niagara River Parkway
CUSTOM BUILT HOME facing the Niagara River, four large bedrooms, plus finished attic with roughed in bath for a fifth bedroom. Solid oak doors and trim throughout. Unspoiled basement with walkout. New C/A, Furnace ‘01. Roof ‘05. Does not disappoint!
BREATHTAKING VIEWS on 2 acres! 4+1 bdrm home features Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigation sprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator, furnace 6yrs, new, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & a nicely landscaped yard! Docking rights available! $3,194 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$3,395 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$3,591 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$3,794 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
5 AcRES
FORT ERIE
WATERFRONT
WATERFRONT
Due Diligence Required
PELHAM
$699,900 571 Poth Street
5 ACRE PROPERTY w/ large 4 bedrm home & barn w/ stalls. Home feat liv/rm, dinrm, eat-in maple kitchen, main flr master suite & fin bsemnt. Outdoor feat large pond, barn w/ 5 stalls, run in shed, 2 paddocks & exercise ring $2,795 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
WATERFRONT
STONEY CREEK
gRIMSBY
$955,000
$379,900
47 Lakeside Drive
6195 Milburough Line
Beautiful lakefront property! Double car garage with 1 bedroom apartment, in-ground pool (as is) and garden. Landscaped yard leads to beach. Buyer to do “due diligence” with building permits, zoning, site influences, conservation authority and property restrictions. Municipal services available at the road. Taxes “not set”.
CLASSIC GEORGIAN COLONIAL MANOR with picturesque tree-lined private driveway. Featuring gleaming hardwood, entertainers kitchen, stunning great room with 14 ft ceiling, and custom millwork and trim thru-out. Upstairs you will find 4 spacious bedrms all featuring their own ensuite, as well as bedroom level laundry.
$3,814 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
WATERFRONT
37 AcRES
$774,900
gRIMSBY
$959,900
342 Kemp Road West
FANTASTIC LAKE VIEW This beautiful Waterfront 4+1 bedroom home makes you feel like you are away from home! Main floor offers open concept with sliding doors to the patio. Have your morning coffee on the patio and sit back and enjoy the sound of the water! 2 master bedrooms with ensuites.
STUNNING VIEW OF THE LAKE! This beautiful Waterfront 4+1 bedroom home makes you feel like you are away from home! Main floor offers open concept with sliding doors to the patio. Have your morning coffee on the patio and sit back and enjoy the sound of the water! 2 master bedrooms with ensuites.
CUSTOM BUILT home on 37 acres. Features nanny's quarters or 2 bedroom in-law suite, 2 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen, ceramics, vaulted ceilings, in-ground pool, 3 car gar. Barn w/13 stalls, 4 paddocks & a 60x140 arena. Minutes from town!
$3,095 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$2,944 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
MARKET ACTIVITY in Selected RAHB Areas – October 2014
Hamilton West Hamilton East Hamilton Centre Hamilton Mountain Burlington Ancaster Dundas Flamborough Waterdown Stoney Creek Grimsby Glanbrook Dunnville (61) Caledonia Lincoln West Lincoln Smithville
42 66 99 159 268 57 28 23 25 76 43 26 16 11 22 7 14
64 76 89 194 255 37 32 22 30 91 28 47 11 11 23 10 3
Average Sale Price 2013 2014 $385,291 $207,869 $186,954 $296,482 $469,478 $501,211 $374,233 $553,164 $441,494 $313,821 $369,987 $399,567 $189,744 $280,136 $330,345 $391,429 $258,921
$366,470 $224,206 $200,926 $301,951 $539,363 $541,922 $407,170 $474,400 $456,223 $350,905 $382,854 $343,972 $241,518 $292,482 $365,111 $413,340 $381,167
Note: Numbers of sales represents sales reported on properties listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) of the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington. Average sale price is calculated by dividing the total dollar volume of sales (not shown) by the number of sales in that month.
$7,189 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
$1,517 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
63 Edgewater Drive
Number of Sales 2013 2014
$1,799,999
143 Lake Street
37 Edgewater Drive
Areas
BuRLINgTON
FABULOUS FIND – Exclusive listing to the Golfi Team. Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot on private cul-de-sac, build your dream home on the shores of lake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lot line.
WATERFRONT
$737,000
ST. CATHARINES
$3,834 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
STONEY CREEK
$1,769,900
9 Lochside Drive ONE ACRE WATERFRONT ESTATE – features Luxury 4400 sq.ft. custom built bungalow with a private rare beach frontage and riparian rights, finished top to bottom with inlaw suite, 9’ ceilings, 3 tier patio off sun-room, loft to roof top patio, main floor den, and floor to ceiling windows. Shows like a dream! $7,069 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.
Keep your Family Safe from Fire Take the time to learn what you can do to prevent such a disaster and how you can get you family involved. Here are some valuable tips and procedures to plan together: • Prepare a fire escape plan for your family and practice it. Also make sure everyone in your household knows where your designated meeting place is outside. • Stop, drop and roll. Know the drill and practice it often. • Choose fire resistant materials when doing a home renovation. Products such as mineral wool insulation will prevent the spread of fire if it occurs. Industry experts recommend Roxul's insulation called Safe N' Sound, ComfortBatt, and ComfortBoard IS. • Check your residential fire extinguisher and make sure it is stored in an easy to access location in case of emergency. Conduct a training session to ensure each member of your family knows how to use it.
The Fire Marshal's Public Safety Council (firesafetycouncil.com), Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs (cafc.ca), and Fire Prevention Canada (fiprecan.ca) are all excellent resources for safety tips.
Call Today 905-575-7700
Page 10
The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch
December 2014
Marketplace Real Estate Lawyer
Paul Lewis Settimi
Barrister, Solicitor and Notary Public
Jacqueline Paradisi
8 Main Street East, Suite 303 Hamilton, Ontario L8N 1E8 Bus: 905-527-0808 Fax: 905-527-0774
HOME STAGING
20 Main Street West Grimsby, Ontario L3M 1R4 Bus: 289-235-7500 Fax: 905-527-0774
paul.settimi@cogeco.net
OUR SERVICES: • • • • •
home evaluation and color consultations home staging redesign real estate photography and advertising personal shopping for home décor and decorating • Feng Shui consultations
! NEW Real Estate package special:
Sandra Bahoric
Certified home staging and redesign professional, Member of RESA
905.912.8781
homesmartsstaging.ca
“Changing The Way The World Does Business™”
Laura Bielak
• home evaluation consultation with color consultation • HD Real Estate photography and aerial photography
Call Home Smarts now for a free intro consultation!
WINNER
If you’d like to learn how BnI (www.bnigh.com) works and what it can do for your business, call or email me at laura@golfiteam.com. I can arrange for you to visit a chapter meeting close to you so you can see how BnI helps members develop referral business relationships. Two BnI chapters in the GTa recently reported referral business totaling $1m for the past year!
Sales Representative, The Golfi Team
905-575-7700
Buying a home through us?
Senior Downsizing
provides “Peace of Mind”
WE GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE ENTIRE PROCESS Pamela Culp Blanchard Cell: 905-971-9568 www.seniordownsizing.ca
Crossword Solution
www. GolfiTeam .com
Ancaster Branch
Binbrook Marketplace Branch
Grimsby Branch
1100 Wilson Street West | 905-304-6838
2537 Regional Road 56 | 905-692-8359
155 Main St. E. | 905-945-2930
Centre on Barton Branch
Jackson Square Branch
Beamsville Branch
1187 Barton Street East | 905-547-6202
2 King Street West | 905-528-6391
4520 Ontario St. | 905-563-0822
Rymal Road Branch
Stoney Creek Branch (Opening Fall 2014)
Vineland Branch
2176 Rymal Road East | 905-692-3597
259 Queenston Road
Hamilton Commercial & Small Business Banking Centre 2 King Street West | 905-528-6391
www.GolfiTeam.com
3370 King St. | 905-562-7373