Jan 2015 Issue 107 by The Real Estate Market Watch

WHAT’S INSIDE: Why first-time home buyers are still taking the plunge. PAGE 5

HOMES FOR SALE | PAGE 4 Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook LUXURY & WAtERFRONt | PAGE 9

HOMES FOR SALE | PAGE 6 Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Niagara

January 2015 - Vol 72

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

January 2015

About Rob Golfi

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 |

1.800.288.9184

Call Today 905-945-0188

January 2015

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

Page 3

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 $117,900 21 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $209,000 37 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $87,900 11 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $329,999 7 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $269,850 14 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $329,900 13 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $238,456 18 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $188,850 9 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $289,900 57 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $115,900 58 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $389,900 20 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $299,444 44 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $369,900 27 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $299,900 24 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $155,000 14 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $164,800 23 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $199,997 4 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $226,900 13 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $219,900 20 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $239,444 12 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $79,900 18 Available

Call Us Today for information on Any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188 www. GolfiTeam .com

Page 4

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 2015

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

Rob Golfi*

Specially priced for a handy man!

Industrial Condo priced to sell

The value is in the land!

Snag this small, old home in great area for a great price! Ideal size lot, oversized driveway, basement with walkout, & nice big yard. Fix it & sell it. Roof was done 9 yrs ago. Mature landscaping, bushes & trees. 305 Caledon Avenue, Hamilton, $239,900

Great location, near Linc and Red Hill. Offices in front, warehouse in rear. Loading door is currently blocked. Hvac not working. Condo fee will go to approximately $199.00 Jan 1, 2015. 69 Bigwin Road, Unit #5, Hamilton, $185,000

The value is in the land – no showings on home. Call LBO for details. Seller says will entertain all offers. Not warranting room sizes. 132 Corman Avenue, Stoney Creek, $279,900

Love to walk?

Quiet cul-de-sac with plenty of updates

GREAT HAMILTON EAST LOCATION!! Two bedroom, with two bathrooms, & eat in kitchen. Lots of updates, two car front parking with interlock brick. Walk to center mall and schools. Fenced yard with deck. 1329 Cannon Street East, Hamilton, $139,900

Prime location! Great 1.5 storey home in desirable Stoney Creek location. Updates include 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! 14 Roselle Place, Stoney Creek, $324,900

A short walk to the water and you can watch the boats come in!

Fantastic neighbourhood!

Attention investors!!! Big house. Little price.

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. 3191 Renton Road, Burlington, $579,900

2 Storey, 3 bedrm home. Master bedroom with ensuite, living room/dining room, main floor family rm, finished basement & 2 car garage. Roof (4yrs ago), new furnace. 47 Waterford Crescent, Stoney Creek, $349,900

Entertain in elegant Georgian style

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. 29 Nightingale Street, Hamilton Ctr, $184,900

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. 6195 Milburough Line, Burlington, $1,799,999

Stylish decor, contemporary updates

Investors – Be your own landlord!

Ready to move in

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. 7 Lyngate Court, Stoney Creek Mtn, $494,900

Fantastic opportunity to own a 12 unit apartment building. Windows & Furnace updates. 6-1 bedroom and 6-2 bedroom units. Separate meters. Tenants pay hydro. 3-7 Connaught Avenue South, Hamilton Ctr, $1,099,000

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. 18 Rose Crescent, Stoney Creek, $349,900

Call Today 905-575-7700

January 2015

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

Cinderella home needs fairy godmother!

Right in the heart of Hamilton

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. 67 Turnbull Road, Dundas, $449,900

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. 27 Frederick Avenue, Hamilton Ctr, $246,900

Page 5

Rob Golfi*

Why pay rent when you can own!

Perfect for 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!. 338 Barton Street, Stoney Creek, $249,900

Why First-time Home Buyers are still taking the Plunge

They are arriving with big down payments, and reducing their risk with five-year mortgages.

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. “We’ve seen the highs for home price growth in this city for a while,” Kavcic said. 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 desir-

able 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 five-year 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 (CAAMP) 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)

www. GolfiTeam .com

and locking in for longer terms. CAAMP says about eight out of 10 borrowers are opting for fixed, longerterm mortgages, typically five years. CAAMP finds that about half of the Canadians buying homes this year — 210,000 in all — were first-time buyers. Their average down payment was 21 per cent of the home’s cost, providing a cushion against rising rates and falling prices. 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. This intergenerational transfer of wealth represents the fact that their parents and grandparents have done well and want to give the kids a leg up, too. “It’s a reflection of what it costs to get into the market,” says Jim Murphy, president of CAAMP. So if the kids are buying a $500,000 home and putting $100,000 down to get that 2.69 per cent mortgage, family are chipping in $17,000 of the down payment, either as a gift or a loan. While the loan portion has remained static over the past 25 years, the gift component has been rising. Real estate lawyer and author Mark Weisleder says $500,000 doesn’t get you anywhere near a detached home in the 416, and for many, condos aren’t the answer. So first-timers are being forced out, trading downtown rents for ownership and more room farther from the core for the same monthly amount. In town, the hottest properties for this group are homes in the $500,000 to $1 million range, configured “in a way that you can rent them out” — duplexes or triplexes. As always, homes near transit and good schools command higher prices, though the definition of transit doesn’t necessarily mean the subway, he says. It includes GO trains and major arterial highways like the 407. In 2015, Weisleder sees more of the same. “If rates stay low and listings are scarce, then prices will hold.” I agree. If you’re at the age and stage when it’s time to buy and you can be patient in any downturn, there’s not much to be gained from waiting. By: Adam Mayers. Adam writes about investing and personal finance. Reach him at amayers@thestar.ca

Page 6

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 2015

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

One Acre - Just the right size property– easy to maintain and nicely private! Enjoy country living only minutes from downtown and QEW. 3+1 bedrm home boasts large eat-in kitchen, liv rm w/ fireplc, main floor family rm w/ walk-out to deck. Fully finished bsmt w/ large rec room/fireplc + add’l bedrm/office. Oversized garage, small barn in fully fenced backyard w/ above grd pool + pond! 262 Mountain Road, Grimsby, $369,900

Lakefront with 16 acres of vines already planted! Approx 21 acres property. Build your dream on lakefront parcel or create your own winery. Can be purchased with adjoining Lakeside Dr property. Great Opportunity! 4921 Sann Road, Beamsville, $2,299,900

Own your own vineyard! Approximately 28 Acres Parcel with 24 acres of vineyard planted. 6 Acres-Sauv Blanc, 6 Acres-Gamay, 5 Acres-Cab Sauv, 5 Acres-Merlot, 1 Acre-Chardonnay, 1 Acre-Sauv Coronation. Home has had some interior updates & new 3500 gallon cistern. 4266 Greenlane, Beamsville, $1,399,900

8 acres of Merlot currently planted with Water Views! Water Views! Approx 19 acre parcel with fantastic views of the water. Farmhouse currently rented. Great opportunities! Can be purchased with adjoining Sann Road property. Great Opportunity! 4558 Lakeside Drive, Beamsville, $1,899,900

Room for busy family!

Great for young family

Approx. 3000 sq ft home w/ in-law set up & walk out from basement. Features grand foyer w/ circular oak staircase, 4 oversized bedrms, finished basement kitchen, bathrm & 2nd laundry. Home updated with new carpet and ceramics. 4349 Birchmount Avenue, Beamsville, $459,900

2 storey home has 3 bedrooms, eat-in kitchen, main floor living room, dining room, family room and laundry. Large backyard w/above ground pool and deck. Updates include kitchen, bathroom, most windows, furnace, central air, siding, fascia, soffits and eaves. 4981 May Street, Beamsville, $299,900

WATeRFRONT

BUILDING LOT

Rare find - this Exclusive waterfront lot in private enclave.

Business Opportunity - RM2 Zoning

Looking for the right neighbor to build a luxury dream home on 140 x 183 ft. lot. Exclusive listing to the Golfi Team. Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot on private cul-de-sac on the shores of lake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lot line. 143 Lake Street, Grimsby, $955,000

Rob Golfi*

¾ acre site centrally located in the 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. Academy Street, Beamsville, $399,900

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. 1 Meadowood Lane, Beamsville, $159,900

5 AcReS

Move in and put your feet up!

Equestrian hobby farm

Country living in Grimsby

This 3 bedroom well maintained bungalow boasts recent updates including kitchen, flooring, bathroom, windows, concrete walkway & steps with maintenance free railing. Enjoy the spacious family room and above ground pool in the backyard. 7260 Sixteen Road, West Lincoln, $369,900

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 571 Poth Street, Pelham, $699,900

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. 572 Ridge Road West, Grimsby, $549,900

Call Today 905-945-0188

January 2015

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

Tired of seeing expensive homes on tiny lots? This home noticeably wide lot and over 260 ft deep will give you all the real estate you need to make your back yard into your paradise. 2 master suites, designer kitchen with butler & walk-in pantries. Complete package with desired finishes and features. 6246 Tesla Court, Niagara Falls, $649,900

Welland News! Rare find: A small, two storey condo townhome completely renovated 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! 810 Clare Avenue, Unit 4, Welland, $184,900

Page 7

Rob Golfi*

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! 23 Richmond Avenue, St. Catharines, $125,000

WATeRFRONT

Due Diligence Required

Chance to snag a 1960’s bungalow with modern updates at a friendly price! sitting on 60x145 ft lot. 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. 5082 Charles Street, Beamsville, $314,900

Updated end unit townhome with cozy fireplace! 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. 91 Livingston Avenue, Unit #1, Grimsby, $243,900

Building Lot – RARE FIND

Beautiful lakefront property!

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. 2 Meadowood Lane, Beamsville, $159,900

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”. 47 Lakeside Drive, St. Catharines, $379,900

Turn of the century character home! Beautifully finished with rich trim, crown mould, warm hardwoods, French doors, character front porch. Granite kitchen counter, added on family room with kitchenette & office. Carriage house perfect for the live/work environment. 3869 Victoria Avenue, Vineland, $399,700

VAcANT cOmmeRcIAL LOT

WATeRFRONT

Vacant Commerical Lot

Quiet 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. 4946 Maple Avenue, Beamsville, $99,900

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. 63 Canterbury Drive, St. Catharines, $172,900

www. GolfiTeam .com

The Muskoka house – If you like living on the water with no yard maintenance BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuilt Waterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3 bedrms & 2 baths. Large master w/ensuite, two main floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area, spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. You will love this freehold property! 1-11th Street, Grimsby, $899,900

Page 8

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 2015

HISTORY CHART 1955-2014

YEAR 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002* 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Residential & Condominium, Farm, Vacant Land, & Business, Hamilton, Burlington & Surrounding Area NUMBER OF NUMBER OF TOTAL DOLLAR HOMES LISTED HOMES SOLD VOLUME 6,412 8,606 8,755 9,694 9,296 9,114 10,230 10,205 8,582 8,531 8,671 9,322 10,143 11,094 11,578 12,603 12,072 11,918 11,070 13,511 16,382 18,712 20,355 20,986 19,676 21,376 20,515 20,798 20,792 21,760 20,983 20,675 25,571 26,785 28,318 36,238 36,187 32,767 29,835 27,716 25,887 22,999 21,518 21,273 19,135 22,550 21,366 17,952 18,681 19,277 19,991 20,754 21,297 22,287 20,030 22,434 23,311 20,321 20,716 19,580

2,552 3,790 3,773 3,426 3,403 3,037 3,063 3,100 3,330 3,759 4,599 5,114 5,522 5,665 5,326 4,304 5,229 5,821 6,210 5,941 7,841 6,251 6,769 6,424 6,834 6,699 7,126 6,466 8,844 9,131 11,396 12,286 11,392 13,810 12,439 7,745 8,350 9,049 8,199 8,817 8,185 10,784 10,612 10,654 11,206 10,941 11,896 11,656 13,351 13,712 13,816 13,549 14,297 12,444 13,152 13,434 14,399 13,573 14,070 14,296

$25,933,747 $40,769,888 $43,928,799 $41,636,856 $43,067,075 $39,304,822 $39,166,153 $39,720,500 $44,306,337 $53,532,765 $69,589,274 $86,964,089 $107,322,067 $123,308,631 $124,461,396 $104,857,879 $129,458,870 $159,695,737 $208,752,098 $252,660,101 $356,962,723 $313,942,966 $349,660,825 $348,288,666 $385,131,691 $398,041,113 $445,511,231 $404,899,847 $588,979,771 $620,175,677 $886,362,255 $1,136,344,284 $1,331,338,599 $1,900,870,640 $2,095,459,068 $1,299,341,482 $1,356,979,854 $1,370,502,738 $1,185,126,368 $1,302,315,456 $1,173,098,098 $1,554,507,479 $1,648,968,336 $1,662,251,354 $1,785,365,893 $1,805,188,967 $2,055,999,217 $2,176,028,702 $2,713,986,833 $3,019,638,176 $3,283,677,750 $3,439,911,421 $3,928,782,461 $3,577,811,195 $3,872,476,035 $4,226,462,935 $4,855,701,291 $4,958,732,687 $5,474,360,850 $5,810,348,847

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE $10,162 $10,757 $11,643 $12,153 $12,656 $12,942 $12,787 $12,813 $13,305 $14,241 $15,131 $17,005 $19,435 $21,767 $23,369 $24,363 $24,758 $27,434 $33,615 $42,528 $45,525 $50,223 $51,656 $54,217 $56,355 $59,418 $62,519 $62,619 $66,597 $67,920 $77,778 $92,490 $116,866 $137,644 $168,458 $167,765 $162,512 $151,453 $144,545 $147,705 $143,322 $144,149 $155,387 $156,021 $159,322 $164,993 $172,831 $186,687 $203,280 $220,219 $237,672 $253,887 $274,798 $287,512 $294,440 $314,609 $337,225 $365,338 $389,080 $406,432

* Data from 2002 to present has been recalculated to reflect current reporting practice.

Call Today 905-575-7700

January 2015

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Luxury Homes & Waterfront Properties WATeRFRONT

WATeRFRONT

Page 9

Rob Golfi*

WATeRFRONT

Due Diligence Required

The Muskoka house – If you like living on the water with no yard maintenance

Rare find - this Exclusive waterfront lot in private enclave.

BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuilt Waterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3 bedrms & 2 baths. Large master w/ensuite, two main floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area, spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. You will love this freehold property! 1-11th Street, Grimsby, $899,900

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”. 47 Lakeside Drive, St. Catharines, $379,900

WATeRFRONT

Entertain in elegant Georgian style! 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. 6195 Milburough Line, Burlington, $1,799,999

8 acres of Merlot currently planted with Water Views! Approx 19 acre parcel with fantastic views of the water. Farmhouse currently rented. Great opportunities! Can be purchased with adjoining Sann Road property. Great Opportunity! 4558 Lakeside Drive, Beamsville, $1,899,900

Custom built home with Equestrian Hobby Farm on 37 Acres Features nanny's quarters or 2 bedroom in-law suite, 2 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen, ceramics, vaulted ceilings, inground pool, 3 car garage. Barn with 13 stalls, 4 paddocks & a 60x140 arena. Minutes from town! 342 Kemp Road West, Grimsby, $959,900

Strong December Market

he REALTORS® Association of HamiltonBurlington (RAHB) reported 796 property sales processed through the RAHB Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) system in December. This represents a 7.6 per cent increase in sales compared to December of the previous year. There were 695 properties listed in December, an increase of 15.4 per cent compared to compared to the same month the previous year. End-of-month listing inventory was 13 per cent lower. “We saw a very strong real estate market in December,” said RAHB President Donna Bacher. “Listings and sales were both above average for the month; we haven’t seen a December market like this since 2009.” Seasonally adjusted sales of residential properties were

4.4 per cent higher than the same month of the previous year, with the average sale price up 4.5 per cent for the month. Seasonally adjusted numbers of new listings were 11.3 per cent higher than the same month the year prior. Actual overall residential sales were 8.2 per cent higher than the previous year at the same time. Residential freehold sales were 9.8 per cent higher while sales in the condominium market saw an increase of 2.1 per cent. “With more properties selling than were listed in December, we may be in for an interesting January,” added Bacher. “Statistically speaking, we’ve now sold some of the listing inventory, leaving us with considerably fewer listings going into the new year. The low inventory and December’s strong sales mean we remain in a seller’s market.”

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The average price of freehold properties showed an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to the same month the previous year; the average sale price in the condominium market decreased by 2.2 per cent when compared to the same period. The average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold in the RAHB market area. Average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends, but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average days on the market decreased from 51 to 45 days in the freehold market and increased from 47 to 53 days in the condominium market when compared to the same month the previous year.

Page 10

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

January 2015

Marketplace Real Estate Lawyer

Paul Lewis Settimi

Barrister, Solicitor and Notary Public

Jacqueline Paradisi

20 Main Street West Grimsby, Ontario L3M 1R4 Bus: 289-235-7500 Fax: 905-527-0774

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Crossword Solution

Call www. Today GolfiTeam 905-575-7700 .com

January 2015

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 11

Chinese Real Estate Developer buys Entire Town north of Whistler

ghost town in British Columbia’s Bridge River Valley about two hours north of Whistler finally has a new owner — a Chinese real estate developer. Bradian, which had been on the market since 2010 for $995,000, was bought by the China Zhong Ya Group Hebei Canada-China Co. last week, said John Lovelace of Sutton Seafair Realty who was involved in the deal. The deal included title to the entire town, which has 22 buildings and covers 50 acres. Included is everything from the streets to fire hydrants, with hydro power and telephone lines — although the services will require upgrading. “We had an unbelievable response from potential buyers all over the world, but at the end of the day we feel that the China Zhong Yung Group will be a good fit,” Mr. Lovelace said. “The company told us they plan to rehabilitate the town but I think they are prepared to take the time to plan everything out first. That planning process will undoubtedly take considerable time.” The property had been used as a summer retreat by Tom and Katherine Gutenberg who bought it in 1997.

Bradian was planned to be a suburb of the neighbouring community of Bralorne, home to a still-functioning gold operation. The little town was spared the fate of another nearby hamlet, Pioneer, that was levelled when its mine closed. Mr. Lovelace believes there is a changing trend among Asian buyers. “The first wave of investors who came to Vancouver were mainly interested in buying single family homes and condos,” he said. “This new wave of buyers are getting more sophisticated, and they are looking at investing outside of places like Richmond and West Vancouver. Now they are looking at properties all over B.C. like farms, ranches, and businesses, and in this case an entire town!” “I think it bodes well for the areas of rural B.C. that need the investment,” he added. Consultant Mike Mills said there is lots of snow in the area, but it’s not that cold, making it ideal for winter sports like snowmobiling or skiing. There are several lakes nearby for fishing, boating, whitewater rafting and swimming, along with plenty of scenic areas to hike. Postmedia News

Crossword puzzle (Solution on Page 10)

SUDOKU 5

9 1

4 5

The Solution 9 8 6

3 2 5 7 8 4 9 6 1

7 6 3 1

8 9 2 5 3

9 5 8 2

4 1 6

4 5 1 6 2 8 3 7 9

5 1 8 3 9 2 6 4 7

3 9 4 7 1 2 5 8

4 8 5 6 1 9 3

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1 It's pulled to open a parachute (7) 2 Scottish border town on the 4 down (7) 3 Repulsive (9) 4 Scottish/English river (5) 5 produce buds — flourish (7) 6 Standing (6) 11 Type of renewable energy (4,5) 13 unresolved (2,5) 14 Improve (7) 15 attendance (7) 16 Safe place of refuge (6) 18 Show cynical contempt (5)

1 Say again (6) 4 Brute (anag) (5) 7 Formal discourse to an audience (6) 8 Take it on the chin (4,2) 9 Loose hood (4) 10 most boisterous (8) 12 perceptiveness (11) 17 Dodge (8) 19 Throw forcefully (4) 20 Hardy's partner — symbol of victory (6) 21 promiscuous (6) 22 measuring device (5) 23 (In heraldry) silver (6)

Down

3 9

6 8

4 2

4 Across

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.

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

3370 King St. | 905-562-7373

259 Queenston Road

Hamilton Commercial & Small Business Banking Centre 2 King Street West | 905-528-6391