July 4, 2014 Issue 97 by The Real Estate Market Watch

WHAT’S INSIDE:

PAGE 12

How to Win when you go to Small Claims Court

PAGE 8

HOMES FOR SALE Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Niagara Listings PAGE 5

Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook Listings PAGE 9

July 1, 2014 - Vol 66a

Testimonial Dear Rob, Again, we thank you for selling our third home so quickly, efficiently, and getting us the highest price in the neighbourhood! We’ ve always trusted your expertise, follow your recommendations and are happy that you outperform in the sale every time! My sister will be contacting you shortly to sell her home as well! Rebecca & Karl

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

76 Fowler Drive Binbrook

Page 2

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

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.

“Each client is always treated with First Class Service.” *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.

July 1, 2014

Seniors Real Estate Specialist is a designation for REALTORS® to address the needs of home buyers and sellers, age 50-plus.

where the future takes shape

If you are buying or selling a home,

contact Rob Golfi today.

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

905-575-7700

Visit www.GolfiTeam.com Check out our Blog for the latest information in Real Estate

www. GolfiTeam .com

July 1, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 3

Waterfront WATERFRONT

Stoney Creek

$737,000

37 Edgewater Drive WOW! The lakefront view is breathtaking! Newport Yacht club. 4 BRs, master w/ensuite, 2 way gas FP, & 9ft sliding door w/gorgeous view! Main flr is open concept w/hardwd flrs & FP in living rm, sliding doors to concrete deck inground lit path & fire pit at the lake’s edge. Fully finished basement!

GrImSby

WATERFRONT

hAmIlton eASt

$1,669,900

188 North Service Road ONE ACRE GATED LAKEFRONT ESTATE - Features 4 bedrm home, w/fully-finished basement, 180 ft of armour rock shoreline protection. Everything has been updated from top to bottom in this magnificent show piece. Separate building can be a boat house or studio. View pictures on line. $6,665 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$2,944 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

$949,900

Stoney Creek

WATERFRONT

GrImSby

$955,000

$589,900

143 Lake Street

90 Seabreeze Cres.

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 RETREAT 1900 sq.ft, 1-1/2 storey home with beautiful lake views. Features 4 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, vaulted ceilings, oak spiral staircase, professionally landscape yards. Call for a private viewing today! $2356 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$3,814 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

$619,900

Stoney Creek

Fort erIe

WATERFRONT

$849,900

Stoney Creek

$1,149,900

1083 Beach Boulevard

131 Edgewater Drive

1645 Niagara Parkway

12 Campview Road

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

THiS iS A 10++ LOCATED AT NEWPORT YACHT CLuB, biggest lot! Private Marina, new $60,000 designer gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line sub-zero fridge & wine storage, wolfe 6 burner gas stove, miele dishwasher, granite counter top with built-in island!

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!

$2,476 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$3,395 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Extraordinary 1/3 acre WATERFRONT home on quiet private road w/2 storey grand foyer! Breath-taking views of Lake Ontario & CN Tower. Open concept, 9' ceilings, Gourmet kitch w/granite counters. 3 BRs, 3 full baths, 2nd floor ldry. Master suite w/walk-in closet & ensuite. Backyard professionally landscaped.

$3,794 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Feature Home

12 Campview Road Stoney Creek

WATERFRONT! Magnificent Mediterranean Villa situated on 1/3 acre with a private long driveway tucked away in Stoney Creek’s most sought after location. Flanked by tall, mature trees with outstanding views of Toronto & the CN Tower. This property features a spectacular custom designed and built residence, two storey grand foyer, spacious open concept main floor with 9’ ceilings, gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, Maple cabinets, island with Jenn-Air Grill, 3 large bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, double car garage, outdoor fire pit. The luxurious master suite includes oversized walk-in closet,

$1,149,900

large balcony, double-sided fireplace in the spa like ensuite bath with jetted tub facing the water and oversized walk in shower. Exuding timeless elegance and extraordinary charm, this home offers, exceptional features including; custom designed wall to wall French doors overlooking lake Ontario, custom pot lighting, 2 gas fireplaces, Jack and Jill bath for 2nd and 3rd bedroom, oversized doors for wheelchair access, separate entrance for basement in-law set up and a custom patio on the water’s edge. Won’t last long! Call Rob Golfi today at 905-575-7700 for a private viewing or visit our website at www.robgolfi.com.

Call Today 905-575-7700

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

July 1, 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 $99,900 32 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $169,900 74 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $89,900 14 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $324,900 11 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $169,900 23 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $269,900 21 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $169,900 34 Available

two Storeys Starting at $167,000 19 Available

two Storeys Starting at $229,900 127 Available

two Storeys Starting at $98,000 40 Available

two Storeys Starting at $264,900 33 Available

two Storeys Starting at $284,500 72 Available

two Storeys Starting at $209,997 54 Available

two Storeys Starting at $285,000 35 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $134,900 32 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $167,900 45 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $94,900 10 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $217,900 16 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $192,900 38 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $209,000 21 Available

Semis & town Homes Starting at $239,900 29 Available

Call Us Today for Information on Any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188 Call Today 905-945-0188

July 1, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 5

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

Rob Golfi* WATERFRONT

POssIBLE sEVERANcE

Fort erIe

$849,900

GrImSby

$474,900

St. CAthArIneS

$252,900

SmIthVIlle

$399,900

1645 Niagara Parkway

202 Central Ave.

15 Lakeside Dr., Unit 39

7 Wade Road

BETTER THAN NEW CHARACTER HOME - Old world charm completely updated from top to bottom; new wiring, windows, shingles, furnace, kitchen with granite, bathrooms, refinished original hardwood floors, oak stair case, 2.5 car garage, private back yard with mature trees. Shows like a dream!

3 bedroom townhouse with amazing views of the lake! Resort style living. Large eat in kitchen, living room with corner gas fireplace, updated flooring, freshly painted. inground pool, large courtyard, private deck off patio doors, lower level finished.

OVERSiZED LOT can possibly be severed for a corner building lot or build a garage. Buyer to verify zoning reg. 4 level side split in prime location on quiet deadend street. 3+2 bdrms, in-ground pool, walkup from bsmt, double garage, & large driveway. updated kitchen, windows, hdwd floors and roof.

$3,395 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,010 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,897 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,789 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

5.5 AcREs

beAmSVIlle

$299,900

St. CAthArIneS

$139,900

JorDAn

$534,900

5060 Cassandra Dr., Unit 5

130 Eastchester Ave.

3662 Glen Road

3 storey 1890 sq.ft. end unit freehold townhome features 9ft. ceilings, 3 great size bedrooms, master with ensuite and walk-in closet, large eat in kitchen, rear yard backs onto pond, double car garage and minutes to all amenities. To be built. Taxes are “not set”.

DOLL HOuSE – Great starter home beautifully updated 2 bedrm, 2 bath bungalow in move in condition! This home features new flooring, windows, kitchen, large oversized detached garage, & quick access to QEW, busses and shopping.

$1,198 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$559 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

RARE FiND! - Sprawling bungalow sitting on half acre ravine lot. 3+1 BR, large finished basement, landscaped yard w/treed ravine backdrop, great family home w/large addition to the rear, custom oak finishes w/large dining & Florida room overlooking the backyard. These kind of properties rarely come up for sale!

SmIthVIlle

$399,900

55 Las Road LARGE 2750 SQ.FT. 4 BEDROOM FAMiLY HOME located on a quiet street in the prestigious Station Meadows. Features include hardwood flooring on both levels, large dining room, eat in kitchen, family room w/gas fireplace, unfinished basement, main floor laundry, formal living room, & much more. $1,597 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

BUILDING LOT

beAmSVIlle

GrImSby

28 Heathcote Court

SPECTACuLAR CuSTOM BuiLD backing onto Escarpment feat. 4 bedrooms, in-ground salt water pool, formal living rm/dining rm, family rm w/fireplace and great room/2nd family room. Walk in from the garage to a large basement. Loaded with updates including stainless appliances, hardwood flooring, large eat-in kitchen w/centre island, granite counters, slate flooring, porcelain tiles, main floor laundry and much more.

$399,900

Academy Street

beAmSVIlle

$159,900

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, 4 lots available. Subject to severance in progress. HST may be applicable. $699 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,597 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

1.5 AcRE

WATERFRONT

$1,669,900

beAmSVIlle

$429,900

5356 Greenlane

uNBELiEVABLE ViEWS! 4 level sidesplit with updated windows and roof sitting on a generous 170 x 132 approx lot. Possible in-law suite in basement. Don’t miss out on this sought after location. $1,717 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

GrASSIe

$4,493 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

beAmSVIlle

$329,900

5074 Charles Street

GORGEOuS 3 PLuS 1 BEDRM BuNGALOW on an extra large lot in Beamsville, updates include kitchen, flooring, windows, entry doors, bathrooms, owned hot water tank ‘09, furnace ‘08, and more. Large deck off rear patio door, mudroom, closed in sun patio, attached garage, inside entry. Possible in-law suite.

1.36 AcREs

WeSt lInColn

$539,900

GrImSby

$589,900

8326 3rd Concession Rd.

168 Saw Mill Road

HuNTERS & HOBBiESTS – Everything has been done to this 3 bedrm raised ranch with 48x32 car garage or workshop, sitting on 10 acres with 7 acres of bush. updates include windows & furnace 2011, updated kitchen cabinets with granite counters & backsplash, professionally finished basement and much more.

BACKiNG ONTO 40 MiLE CREEK-Custom newly built 2 storey country home w/detached 3 car garage sitting on 1.36 acres fenced, features open concept w/large family size kitchen & island, 4 large sunny bedrooms, professionally landscaped, high speed internet available, close to Bruce Trail and minutes to town.

$2,156 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

1 AcRE

$779,900

P/L#23 Durham Road ZONED LiGHT iNDuSTRiAL AND COMMERCiAL with 5.5 acres and 602 feet of frontage on Durham Rd.

$1,317 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

10 AcREs

3 Meadowood Lane

$1,125,000

$2,136 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$3,514 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

BUILDING LOT

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.

GrImSby

$849,900

beAmSVIlle

$2,356 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

1.36 AcREs

WeSt lInColn

$509,900

GrImSby

$324,900

8058 Sheridan Court

2967 South Grimsby Rd., #18

225 Hysert Road

CuSTOM BuiLT BuNGALOW – Sitting on 1.5 acres in quiet cul-de-sac features 3 bedrm 2200 sq ft of luxury living, beautiful hardwood floors, maple kitchen with granite counters, ensuite bath, partallialy finished basement, oversized dble garage, Less than 10 mins to QEW

SPRAWLiNG CuSTOM BuiLT 4 LVL BACK SPLiT Sitting on 1 acre of manicured grounds, features cathederal ceilings, beautiful hardwood floors, large country size kitchen, sun filled rec-rm, landscaped with stamped concrete patio and driveway, heated & insulated oversized garage.

GET OuT OF TOWN! 4 bdrm home sitting on 1.36 acres of quietness, features hardwood floors, updated bathrooms, & fascia, eaves & siding, freshly painted, clean neat and tidy, 30x17 ft. barn/workshop, and 3500 gal cistern. Close to town but far enough to enjoy country living.

$2,037 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

1,398 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$3,115 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Call www.golfiteam.com Today 905-945-0188

Page 6

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

July 1, 2014

New Sales Record Set in May

h e REALTO R S ® Association of HamiltonBurlington (RAHB) reported 1660 property sales were processed through the RAHB Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) system in May. This represents a 4.1 per cent increase in sales compared to May of last year and sets a new record for sales in any month. There were 2458 properties listed in May, an increase of eight per cent over the same month last year. Endof-month listing inventory was four per cent lower than last year at the same time. “Spring weather may have taken

its time in arriving, but the spring real estate market certainly took off in May,” said RAHB CEO Ross Godsoe. “We didn’t just trip over the record set in 2009; we beat it by 3.5 per cent.” Seasonally adjusted* sales of residential properties were 8.1 per cent higher than the same month last year, with the average sale price down 1.8 per cent for the month. Seasonally adjusted numbers of new listings were 12 per cent higher than the same month last year. Actual overall residential sales were 4.6 per cent higher than the previous year at the same time and set a new record for residential sales in any month. Residential freehold sales were 2.6 per cent higher than

last year while the condominium market saw an increase of 12.9 per cent in sales. The average price of freehold properties showed a decrease of 2.3 per cent compared to the same month last year; the average sale price in the condominium market decreased less than one per cent when compared to the same period last year. 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. “Having record-setting sales isn’t

the whole story,” added Godsoe. “There was also a bump in the number of new listings during the month of May. it wasn’t record-setting, but new listings were higher than the 10-year average for the month. That may account for the slight decrease in average sale price compared to May of last year.” The average days on the market decreased from 39 to 34 days in the freehold market and from 37 to 36 days in the condominium market. Year to date, listings are less than one per cent lower than the same January-to-May period a year ago. Sales are two per cent higher and the average sale price is five per cent higher for the period.

Municipal Year-to-Date Statistics May 2013 vs May 2014 P R E S E N T E D

B Y

T H E

G O L F I

T E A M

YTD Comparison May 2014 / 2013

AREA

Based on sales data on all home sales from May 2013 vs May 2014, REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington

Listed YTD

Expired YTD

Sold YTD

Average Selling Price

Average Days on Market

Selling % of List Price

ANCASTER (DISTRICT 42)

2014 2013

129 114

15 11

78 85

$493,883 $494,782

34 46

98% 97%

BURLINGTON (DIST. 30 to 36 & 38)

2014 2013

501 503

20 23

388 369

$479,601 $501,039

29 31

99% 98%

DUNDAS (DISTRICT 41)

2014 2013

48 46

2 0

39 39

$387,638 $374,913

33 34

100% 98%

GLANBROOK (DISTRICT 53)

2014 2013

68 66

3 11

45 39

$362,163 $354,714

53 53

98% 98%

GRIMSBY (DISTRICT 54,55)

2014 2013

61 66

5 7

39 49

$380,554 $327,909

31 38

97% 98%

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

2014 2013

128 125

5 5

96 80

$224,721 $219,483

33 30

98% 97%

HAMILTON WEST (DIST. 10, 11, 12)

2014 2013

109 105

6 9

82 74

$335,675 $350,870

33 42

99% 99%

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

2014 2013

316 242

18 15

223 220

$302,146 $284,413

24 29

99% 99%

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

2014 2013

168 149

7 20

113 97

$218,271 $175,619

28 28

98% 99%

BEAMSVILLE (DISTRICT 981)

2014 2013

31 20

3 3

20 16

$340,185 $311,442

20 69

100% 98%

WEST LINCOLN (DISTRICT 56, 982)

2014 2013

8 13

1 0

4 11

$343,125 $385,086

51 82

98% 97%

SMITHVILLE (DISTRICT 57)

2014 2013

13 13

0 0

10 11

$261,525 $289,793

46 44

98% 97%

STONEY CREEK (DISTRICT 50,51,52)

2014 2013

168 143

11 9

133 119

$352,700 $320,051

33 38

98% 98%

Check out the Top Real Estate Site for Hamilton Wentworth!

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

July 1, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 7

We SELL more... because we DO more! THE ULTIMATE SELLING TEAM SHARON STAFFORD

HANS MARCELISSEN

WENDY MURRAYNICHOLSON

MIKE MCNEIL

DAN GOLFI

CHRISTINE SERAFINI

ERIC PINI, B.A.

LAURA BIELAK

SAM ASSADI

JENNIFER DRAHO

JEFF GOLFI

RoB GolFi SAlES REpRESEnTATIVE

www.golfiteam.com | 905.575.7700 | 1.800.288.9184

Crossword puzzle (Solution on Page 8)

SUDOKU 1

6 7 6 3 3

2 5 6 2

9 7

3 1

5 6 8 2 1

the Solution 7 8 5

3 9 6 5 7 4 8 1 2

2 5 8 1 6 3 9 7 4

9 4 3 2 5 7 1 6 8

6 7 1 8 4 9 2 3 5

4 6 2 7 3 1 5 8 9

8 1 7 4 9 5 6 2 3

5 3 9 6 2 8 7 4 1

www. GolfiTeam .com

Down 1 Red's week (anag) (8) 2 Junior uS naval officer (6) 3 light horse-drawn carriage (4) 4 incident that attracts great public attention (5,7) 5 irksome (12) 6 Reproduction of commemorative plaques on paper (5,7) 7 Beheading (12) 12 Well — in a way that's well known (8) 15 living organism (6) 18 uS 10 cent coin (4)

5 4 7

Across 1 Visually striking performance (9) 8 Female ruff (5) 9 Shoulder blade (7) 10 (technologically) highly advanced (5,3) 11 large brown leathery seaweed (4) 13 Spoilt (6) 14 Dash — profession (6) 16 Card game (4) 17 Work-shy (8) 19 Heavy corrosion-resistant metal, used in alloys (7) 20 Rinse (anag) — sea nymph (5) 21 in a socially refined way (9)

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

Ontario’s Advice on Home Inspection…

good home inspection help homebuyers make informed decisions. They can help you understand a home’s condition. if you are selling your home, an inspection can help you determine its value. What is a home inspection? A home inspection is an on-site, inperson examination of a home’s condition and structure. it is a visual inspection of major elements and systems, like the foundation, the electrical and plumbing systems, the attic ventilation and the roof. A home inspection is not a pass or fail test. it doesn’t assess if a home meets zoning or building codes. A home inspector will typically examine the: • foundation • doors and windows • roof (if they are able and it is safe to do so) • exterior walls • attics • plumbing and electrical systems (where visible) • heating and air conditioning systems • ceilings, walls and floors • insulation (where visible) • ventilation systems • drainage away from buildings, slopes and natural vegetation • overall assessment of structural integrity of the building(s) • common areas in a condominium Home inspectors complete a report of the property’s condition, as observed at

the time of inspection. it will normally show: • the condition of every major system and component of the home • areas or parts of a home that are unsafe, need to be repaired or replaced, or may need to be repaired or replaced in the near future • if something is not working properly, is unsafe, or needs to be changed • any evidence of past problems After getting the results of a home inspection, a buyer may decide to: • ask the seller to make certain repairs • accept a defect and deal with its consequences • ask for a price adjustment • not buy the home Some sellers may have an inspection done before selling a home. Although seeing a current inspection report can be helpful, buyers should have their own home inspection done too. it is important for a homebuyer to be present during an inspection. This gives them a chance to ask questions and see any issues first hand. You should also keep in mind that: • an inspector cannot see or find everything. For example, they may not find mould or may not be able to be able to inspect a roof that is covered with snow • an inspector does not provide warranties or guarantees on a home’s condition • inspectors are not required by law to have insurance coverage. However, many do have policies that can include general liability or errors and omis-

Hiring a home inspector You will need to do some research to find a reliable, experienced and knowledgeable home inspector. Look for a home inspector who: • provides written inspection reports • will give you references • has experience with the type of home you’re considering (e.g. condos, heritage era homes, cottages) • has an accreditation that shows training and experience • will provide a written contract When hiring a home inspector make sure to: • get quotes from more than 1 inspector • check references • ask about their training and experience • ask to see a copy of the inspection report they use • ask if they choose to have insurance At this time, Ontario does not have mandatory requirements for home inspectors. However, there are many training programs and courses that inspectors can take to gain knowledge and understanding of home design, construction, operation, maintenance and common defects. For more information on buying a home, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/consumers/buying-home

Home buyers will typically sue sellers in Small Claims Court over problems that arise after closing when the amount in dispute is $25,000 or less.

Michael Abrams, a paralegal at abramslegal.com says that since small claims court hearings are open to the public, it is a good idea for anyone thinking about filing a claim to go watch a learn to see how they work and what the judge wants and doesn’t want. A paralegal or lawyer will review whether your claim and give you an opinion of its merit, but more importantly, will ask whether you will be able to collect any money if you win. if you win in court, sometimes after two years, the judge does not ask the loser for a cheque. You have to collect this money separately. There is little point spending money and time to get a judgment against someone if you can’t collect. To garnish wages, you need to know where they work. To go after their bank accounts, you need to know where they bank. To go after real estate, you need to know where they may own property. The cost to file a claim in Small

From the Editor

sions coverage • home inspection fees range from $350 to $600 and may be higher, depending on the size and condition of the home

How to Win when you go to Small Claims Court

Home buyers will typically sue sellers in small claims court over problems that arise after closing when the amount in dispute is $25,000 or less. The main reason is that you can make the claim without a lawyer and the costs are relatively cheap. But even though you don’t need a lawyer, you are much better off with some professional advice, either from a lawyer or paralegal. That’s because there are common mistakes people make when doing this by themselves. Here are some of them: People forget that most lawsuits must be brought within two years or you forfeit your ability to sue. People do not sue the right person; for example, they sue a corporation without the word “Limited” at the end. Any judgment obtained may be worthless. They don’t provide enough evidence to justify their claim, including invoices, receipts and a clear explanation of the sequence of events.

July 1, 2014

Claims Court is $75. To file a defence costs $40. if you use a lawyer or paralegal and you win, the fee will vary up to $2,500 but if you do win, you can ask the judge for part of your costs, up to 15 per cent of the actual claim. But judges have a lot of discretion to vary this amount up or down. For example, if you make an offer of settlement that is refused and you end up getting more at trial, you can ask for double the fee. Jordan Farkas, a lawyer with mrsmallclaimscourt.ca offers these tips: Your claim is the first document that will be read by the judge. Make sure it is not scribbled in a hurry. Make it clear and attach all receipts or documents that support what you are asking for. Every case will have a pre-trial settlement conference to try and settle the matter. Be prepared for this. Review your opponent’s evidence at the hearing and ask questions, so that you will not be surprised by anything at the trial. Make sure that any final argument you make at trial is supported by the evidence, receipts or invoices, so that it clearly sets out your position. Also remember before making any claim that most judgments become available on the internet. if you lose, a lot of people may read about it. Be prepared before going to Small Claims Court, so that you have your best chance to succeed.

e recently received correspondence referring to an article in our June 2 issue recommending hiring a home inspector, and said writer’s bad experience doing so. When i recommend hiring a home inspector, i naturally mean one that comes well recommended by someone you trust, whether that is your realtor, a family member or a friend. unquestionably, home owners need to do their due diligence when hiring from within this largely unregulated field. By that i mean get a referral, interview your potential inspector, find out how long he or she has been doing inspections, ensure that your inspector carries errors and omissions insurance, be with the inspector during the inspection, ask if they are affiliated with any professional inspection organizations such as Ontario Association of Registered Home inspectors and check to see if they offer any guarantees. The profession may be unregulated but there’s a lot you can do to ensure that your inspector is reputable. The option of hiring individual professionals to inspect a home’s plumbing, electrical, HVAC and carpentry is a good one. This undoubtedly would be the best inspection ever, however, it would likely be costly and very time consuming. Hiring a professional contractor to check your home’s plumbing, for example, would likely run you a few hundred dollars. Now take that amount and multiply it by four or five to cover off each aspect of your property and you have an inspection approaching $1000. We’ve all experienced the difficulty during the best of times of trying to convince contractors to visit our homes in a timely fashion to fix a problem or give a quote on a job that needs doing. How quick do you think they would be to show up to assess your heating and cooling system for a few hundred dollars? While waiting you could potentially lose out on the house you love because another buyer beat you to the punch. By: Rob Golfi

Crossword Solution

Mark Weisleder is a Toronto real estate lawyer. Contact him at mark@markweisleder.com

Call Today 905-575-7700

July 1, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Rob Golfi*

hAmIlton WeSt

Page 9

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

$479,900

14 Cottrill Street McMaster Student Rental! Best location for student rental at Mac, on university side of Main Street. Same owner for 32 years, numerous updates with big garage. Three rooms not yet rented. $3000.00 a month income & students pay utilities. Walk to university, shopping and on main bus line. $1,917 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

hAmIlton mtn

$299,900

bInbrook

$389,900

hAmIlton eASt

$269,900

425 East 15th Street

260 Binbrook Road

56 Potruff Road South

CuSTOM BuiLT BuNGALOW ON HAMiLTON MOuNTAiN!! Original owner, detached garage with hydro, big concrete drive, poured concrete foundation with a 200 sq.ft. cold room. Side entrance and full 3 piece bath in lower level. Could be in-law setup or rental! Very well maintained!

“OuT” BuT NOT “FAR OuT” – Half acre beauty w/the sweet smell of country all around, spacious 4 lvl side split features lrg. living rm w/new bay window, cozy family rm w/showcase gas fireplace, bedrooms w/original hardwood flrs, updated bathrm, private yard, & oversized dble garage.

$1,298 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,597 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

CHARACTER HOME iN A GREAT LOCATiON! Not a cookie cutter home, loads of character & charm, mostly finished basement, w/private rear yard leading to a ravine. Minutes to Red Hill Valley Parkway, walking trails & shopping. updates include: shingles 2010, furnace 2011, & most windows. $1,078 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

Stoney Creek

$1,149,900

hAmIlton mtn

$229,900

12 Campview Road

397 East 21st Street

Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath family home close to Limeridge Mall and located on a quiet cove with plenty of updates. Newly painted ’14, newer carpet & laminate ’13, windows ’02, roof ’01, added insulation to attic ’02, & siding ’05. Beautiful front garden and rear yard w/shed & fenced yard. Move in ready!

Stoney Creek

$619,900

hAmIlton mtn

$499,900

hAmIlton eASt

$117,900

95 Hope Avenue

BEAuTiFuL ESCAPRMENT 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.

CuTE ONE FLOOR PLAN, and same owners for 24 years!! Front concrete drive, nice fenced in backyard w/sliding doors from kitchen, new windows and doors. Great location, close to new Centre Mall and parks.

$1,597 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$471 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$963 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Stoney Creek

$399,900

723 Ridge Road

hAmIlton Ctr

$294,900

hAmIlton eASt

$179,900

131 Edgewater Drive

22 McIntosh Avenue

673 King Street East

100 Quigley Road, Unit 63

THiS iS A 10++ located at Newport Yacht Club, biggest lot! Private Marina, new $60,000 designer gourmet kitchen with top of the line sub zero fridge & wine storage, wolfe 6 burner gas stove, miele dishwasher, granite counter top with built in island!

DESiRABLE WEST MOuNTAiN 2600 sq.ft. 4+1 BR home w/3.5 baths features living & dining room combo along w/a main floor family rm w/gas fireplace, Master BR w/walk-in closet & separate jetted tub. Fully finished basement with 3pc bath, bedrm and rec room. Fabulous home for the growing or lrg family!

LOCATiON LOCATiON LOCATiON! This incredibly maintained 2200 sq.ft. corner property with commercial frontage and 2 additional apartments features fantastic income, close to Cathedral high school, new roof 4yrs new, 14 ft ceilings, hardwd flrs, full basement with newer wiring & parking space in the back.

End unit on Ravine! Many updates: patio door 2013, windows 2005, Furnace & CAC 2007, new garage door & opener installed June 4/’14, bath 2009, Granite 2013, flring on main flr‎ 2009! Gas stove! Backs onto Red hill Creek! Lots of playgrounds nearby! Well maintained come see it before it's too late!

$1,996 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,178 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$718 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$2,476 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

hAmIlton eASt

$949,900

1089 Beach Boulevard 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 $3,794 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

hAmIlton mtn

$320,000

hAmIlton mtn

$339,900

754 Stone Church Road East

193 Parkwood Crescent

iMMACuLATE AND uPDATED!! This home has been well cared for and backs onto an empty lot. Family room w/fireplace. Recent updates: kitchen w/new cabinets, backsplash & quartz counters, shingles 2013, furnace 2009, windows 2009/14, flooring, insulation, and big cedar shed w/overhang.

FANTASTiC LOCATiON!! Walk to Limeridge mall & parks. This home features a spiral staircase, main floor family room w/gas fireplace, separate dining room, laundry was on the main LVL and can be moved back, large partially finished bsmt and fenced rear yard with deck. Shingles replaced in 2002.

$1,278 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,358 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$446,900

bInbrook

$499,900

117 Tanglewood Drive

76 Fowler Drive

STuNNiNG 4 BEDRM family home loaded with upgrades, new hardwood flooring, granite counters, upgraded 2 piece bathroom, finished basement, large fenced private yard. Large office in basement could be a 5th bedroom.

SPECTACuLAR, luxurious & immaculate 2975 sq.ft. of luxury, features gorgeous hardwd flrs on main lvl, beautiful oak kitchen cabinets with chefs desk large pantry, breakfast bar & granite counters tops, main floor den, oak staircase, landscaped with patterned concrete patio and fenced yard.

$1,785 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

$1,996 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

hAmIlton Ctr

$599,900

1489 / #8 Hwy 1 2

OuTSTANDiNG & iMMACuLATE custom built 1760 sq.ft. all brick bungalow sitting on one acre with 3 car garage, featuring beautiful hardwood through-out, stylish kitchen with granite counter tops, main floor laundry, partially finished basement with 3pc bath & rough in for kitchen. $2,396 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

POOL

TRIPLEX

bInbrook

Stoney Creek

$279,900

Stoney Creek

$619,900

187 Sanford Avenue North

71 Richmond Crescent

GREAT iNVESTMENT OPPORTuNiTY! Currently used as 3 family home. updates include furnace, water heater, and roof (2011). Basement unit $750, Main unit $950, upper unit $1200. Tenants willing to stay.

CuSTOM BuiLT! 3500+ sq. ft. home features LR/DR w/vaulted ceilings, 3 way gas fireplace, main flr den & laundry, eat-in kitchen, oak cupboards & moveable island, prof. landscaped grounds w/sprinkler system, in ground pool, waterfall & shed w/shower. Family rm, 2nd flr loft, master bedrm w/ensuite, more bedrms & bonus room over garage. Lower level in-law suite. Loads of extras!

$1,118 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Call Today 905-575-7700

$2,476 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

Page 10

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

July 1, 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

Advertise Here For information on advertising in the market Watch, contact

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Rose Magro

email: rose@golfiteam.com cell: 905-745-0122

Home Inspection

HouseMaster is proud to be the oldest and most experienced name in home inspections. The HouseMaster Franchise System has over 35 years of home inspection experience. HouseMaster offices have collectively performed over 2 million inspections, continuing a long tradition of quality and integrity. HouseMaster provides home buyers and sellers an independent, third-party, professional evaluation of the condition of the major elements of a home and serves the Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas. We are number one in North America for Open customer satisfaction for a reason seven let us show you why! days a week.

Call 905-689-4663 today

Imagine having nothing to eat.

Over the last 2 years, the Golfi Team proudly helped raise over 5680 lbs of food for local food bank.

for more information about our services, or to book your inspection.

Buying a home through us?

Please donate to your local food bank – it’s the neighbourly thing to do.

provides “Peace of Mind”

www. GolfiTeam .com

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664 FFennell ennell Ave. Ave. E., H Hamilton, amilton, Ontario L8V 1V1 Grimsby: Hamilton: 905.575.7700 | Grimsb y: 905.945.0188 Toll Free: T oll Fr ee: 1.800.288.9184 | Fax: 905.575.1962

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