May 20, 2014 Issue 94 by The Real Estate Market Watch

WHAT’S INSIDE: For Sale by Owner

5 Things to Know When Selling Privately

PAGE 7

HOMES FOR SALE Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Niagara Listings PAGE 4

HOMES FOR SALE Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook Listings PAGE 8

May 20, 2014 - Vol 64b

I would like to thank Rob and his team for their exceptional service. Rob was very professional and knowledgeable on the market trends – especially when it came to dealing with my waterfront condo. I enjoyed working with Rob as he always provided great insight and answered my questions without delay. His approach and guidance when dealing with the offer on my home was impeccable and resulted in our home selling for our full asking price. Rob exceeded my expectations! We highly recommend Rob and his team to our neighbours, family and friends and look forward to working with him again in the future. Deborah 515 North Service Road

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

#80 - 515 North Service Road

A.C.

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.”

May 20, 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

*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.

www. GolfiTeam .com

May 20, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 3

Waterfront WATERFRONT

GRIMSBY

WATERFRONT

$1,669,900

188 North Service Road

GRIMSBY

$885,000

143 Lake Street

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.

WATERFRONT

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.

$3,535 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

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!

StOneY CReek

$589,900

90 Seabreeze Cres. 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.

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

WATERFRONT

hAMIltOn eASt

WATERFRONT

$949,900

StOneY CReek

WATERFRONT

$299,900

WATERFRONT

FORt eRIe

$849,900

StOneY CReek

$1,769,900

1083 Beach Boulevard

80-515 North Service Road

1645 Niagara Parkway

9 Lochside Drive

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

SEASiDE ViLLAGES – Waterfront condo on upper level shows like a dream, features beautiful hardwood floors, freshly painted thru-out, master bedroom with private ensuite, single car garage, gorgeous view of Lake Ontario with park like setting over water’s edge, and quick access to QEW.

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!

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!

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

$1,197 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$0 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$7,069 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

FREE Home Evaluation: 905.575.7700 or 905.945-0188 Hiring a mover

Learn about your consumer rights when signing a contract for moving services and get advice on hiring a mover. Ask the right questions • Will the estimate be part of my contract? • Who is responsible for any damage or loss? Can you include that in my contract? • Do you have insurance? Does your plan cover things that i packed myself? • May i visit your storage facility? • How will we handle any disputes or disagreements? Can that be included in the contract? Recommended for you • What to know before buying a home • How to write a complaint letter and file a complaint • Ontario’s guide to condominiums

Door-to-door and home service contracts FAQs • What are some common home renovation scams? • What do i need to know before hiring a roofer or electrical contractor? • How can i protect myself from mortgage fraud? Estimates and contracts Before signing a contract with a mover, get at least 3 written estimates from different companies.

Once you select a mover, make sure the estimate is part of your contract. This way, the mover cannot charge you more than 10% above the estimated cost unless you: • have agreed to a new service or a new price • signed a change to your contract This is the law under Ontario’s Consumer Protection Act (CPA). All moving contracts worth more than $50 must be in writing. Under the CPA, your contract must include: • the mover’s name, address and contact information • a description of the service(s) and their prices • the total cost that you will have to pay, additional charges that may apply and taxes • start and end dates for the service • the terms of payment (For example, if you will pay by cash or cheque) Your contract should also include: • the size and value of the items • who is responsible for any damage or loss • an estimate of the number of boxes or items that will be moved • who is responsible for packing • the type of packing containers that will be used

• the number of staff, the number of hours and size of the vehicle(s) that will be needed • any licences or customs documents that may be needed to cross a border • the name of the person who holds the policy to any insured items

Selecting a mover When selecting a mover, remember: • a reputable mover will inspect your items and furnishings to prepare an estimate. Don’t deal with a moving company that says they do not need to look at your things to give you an estimate • to ask for references and check them. if you work with a local company it may be easier to check references • to ask if the company has liability insurance. Many companies have insurance, but their plans often do not cover things that you have packed • to find out who is responsible for damage or loss and include it in your contract to visit any facility where your items may be stored. Don’t deal with a company that will not show you its storage space if you have household insurance, check if you have coverage for things that are accidentally damaged or lost during a move. You may want to contact your insurance company and ask about buying

Call Today 905-575-7700

extra coverage. On your moving day, we suggest you: • move valuable items (For example, jewelry) and personal documents yourself • supervise the pickup and delivery of your items • make a note of any missing or damaged items on your contract or inventory list before the movers leave A mover cannot hold your items or furnishings to demand extra payment. That’s an unfair practice under the Consumer Protection Act and it is an offence to do so. if you pay the extra fee because you feel you have no choice, write on the invoice that you “paid under protest.” Keep a copy of the invoice and follow up with the company, call the police or contact the Consumer Protection Ontario. Complaining about a mover if you have a dispute with a moving company, make sure to keep copies of all the documents that support your complaint. Write the company a complaint letter explaining the issue. if you cannot resolve the issue with the company, file a complaint with Consumer Protection Ontario.

Page 4

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

May 20, 2014

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

Rob Golfi*

WATERFRONT

BeAMSVIlle

$229,900

4353 Beverley Cr. Affordable End Unit Townhouse! 3 bedrooms with large master, open concept main floor. Updates include roof, exterior doors, partial fence and some of the bathrooms. Single car garage with loft storage.

$918 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.

BeAMSVIlle

Get your home sold Fast!

905.945.0188

$534,900

$849,900

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.

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!

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

10 AcRES

JORdAn

FORt eRIe

1645 Niagara Parkway

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

FREE Home Evaluation

$399,900

Lot #201, Academy Street

WeSt lInCOln

$3,394 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

BUILDING LOT

$539,900

BeAMSVIlle

$174,900

3662 Glen Rd.

8326 3rd Concession Rd.

3 Meadowood Lane

RARE FiND! Sprawling bungalow sitting on 1/2 acre ravine lot. 3+1 BR, large fin. basement, landscaped yard w/treed ravine backdrop, great family home w/large addition to rear, custom oak finishes w/large dining & Florida rm overlooking the backyard. These kind of properties rarely come up for sale!

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.

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.

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

$699 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

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

WATERFRONT

GRIMSBY

$885,000

GRIMSBY

$499,900

GRIMSBY

$309,900

St. CAthARIneS

$139,900

143 Lake Street

34 Baker Rd. S.

541 Winston Rd., Unit #56

130 Eastchester Ave.

Sprawling 3+1 bedroom, 1-1/2 storey home with main floor master bedroom. Sitting on large lot in fantastic neighbourhood. Beautiful hardwood floors, showcase fireplace in family room. Partially finished basement, fenced yard. Available for immediate occupancy.

WATERFRONT ViEW – Freehold 3 bedrm end unit in fantastic condition, features 1400 sq.ft. of luxury w/unobstructed view of lake, beautiful hardwd & Berber carpet flooring, stylish kitchen w/quartz counter top and glass back splash, quick access to QEW, $71.89/mo. road fee.

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.

$1,997 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$3,535 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

1.36 AcRES

POSSIBLE SEVERANcE

SMIthVIlle

$448,000

SMIthVIlle

$410,000

7 Wade Road

55 Las Road

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.

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.

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

48 AcRES

GRIMSBY

1.5 AcRE

$519,900

334 Mud Street West 48 ACRE HOBBY FARM - minutes to town & QEW, features 2 storey w/3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, hdwd. floors on main level, spacious family room with wood burning fireplace, main floor laundry, partially finished basement, 26x48 ft. out-building with hydro, & 5 acres of bush.

$2,077 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

GRASSIe

GRIMSBY

WATERFRONT

$589,900

168 Saw Mill Road

$1,638 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

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.

GRIMSBY

WeSt lInCOln

$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.

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

1 AcRE

$779,900

$558 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$1,237 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

1.36 AcRES

$509,900

GRIMSBY

$349,900

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.

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

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

Call Today 905-945-0188

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

May 20, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

When is a builder’s promise binding? You rely on a builder's marketing material and a new condo because of an advertised feature. What happens if it’s not there?

Page 5

The Golfi Team wishes to welcome our newest Sales Representatives to our award winning team

By: Mark Weisleder Real Estate

ondominium buyers have launched a class-action lawsuit against Emerald City Developments for a building at 70 Forest Manor Drive in north Toronto because the building does not having direct access to the Sheppard/Don Mills subway station. Some buyers bought a unit based on the belief that it would it will be up to the courts to decide whether this was an actual promise and if so, whether buyers are entitled to a reduced price for their units. Related:North York condo developer faces $30-million lawsuit Here are the issues: One of the items in the 2008 purchase and sale agreement says that the building’s features include a “Lower lobby with direct access to the subway station.” This was also apparently promoted in marketing materials at the time. When owners started moving into their units this January, the building did not have direct access to the subway from the lower lobby. Owners must leave the building to get to the subway which is nearby. One buyer said that having direct access was important to him for safety reasons for his daughter to travel to the University of Toronto. The original contract also contained the usual developer’s clause that says the builder can change plans and specifications of the building at its sole discretion, or as required by any government. This is as long as it is not a material change, including any changes advertised in any sales brochure. Related:Why a condo’s status certificate is important in law, a material change is one that would cause someone to change their mind and not buy a property. if the developer makes a material change, they are obligated to give buyers 10 days to cancel the contract, even if the change occurs years after the original contract was signed. This was one of the arguments made by buyers suing the Trump condominium in downtown Toronto. They did not want to close, complaining that the financial promises made at the time they signed their contracts were not true at closing. The builder appears to be taking the position that since it will be relatively few steps from the building to access the subway, this was not a material change and does not merit any reduction in the price paid. When you buy a pre-construction condominium, you have 10 days to change your mind. Use the time to go to a lawyer to review your agreement so you understand what all the clauses really mean. You must also be aware that you may not receive exactly what was promised, as the builder can still make changes to your square footage, the layout of your unit and the finishings, as long as these are not material, and you cannot complain. This is why it is important to check the reputation of the builder. Go to other buildings they have completed and ask the owners the following questions: • Did they build what was promised? • Did they finish on time? • Did they correct any deficiencies in a timely manner? • Do proper research before you buy, and you should not be disappointed later.

Laura Bielak

Sam Assadi

Monique Mackay

Jennifer Draho

SAlES REPRESEnTATiVE

Visit

GolfiTeam.com Check out our Blog for the latest information in Real Estate Crossword Solution GET YOUR

HOME

SOLD CALL NOW!

905-945-0188

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

HANS MARCELISSEN

WENDY MURRAYNICHOLSON

MIKE MCNEIL

DAN GOLFI

JEFF GOLFI

CHRISTINE SERAFINI

ERIC PINI, B.A.

LAURA BIELAK

SAM ASSADI

MONIQUE MACKAY

JENNIFER DRAHO

VIOLET LOWE

ROB GOLFI SAlES REPRESEnTATiVE

www.golfiteam.com | 905.575.7700 | 1.800.288.9184

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

Page 6

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

May 20, 2014

Low Inventory Continues (May 6, 2014 – Hamilton, Ontario) The REALTORS ® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) reported 1474 property sales were processed through the RAHB Multiple Listing Service ® (MLS ® ) system in April. This represents a 2.7 per cent decrease in sales compared to April of last year. There were 2252 properties listed in April, an increase of 1.6 per cent over the same month last year. End-of-month listing inventory was 9.3 per cent lower than last year at the same time. “Listing activity picked up through the month of April,” said RAHB CEO Ross Godsoe, “and was actually a little above average for the month of April for the last

ten years. Sales were about five per cent above the 10-year average, even though they are lower than April a year ago.” Seasonally adjusted* sales of residential properties were 2.6 per cent higher than the same month last year, with the average sale price up 7.3 per cent for the month. Seasonally adjusted numbers of new listings were 5.7 per cent higher than the same month last year. Actual overall residential sales were 1.6 per cent lower than the previous year at the same time. Residential freehold sales were 1.8 per cent lower than last year while the condominium market saw a decrease of less than one per cent in sales. The average price of freehold

properties showed an increase of 9.3 per cent over the same month last year; the average sale price in the condominium market increased 9.5 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. The average days on market decreased from 40 to 34 days in the freehold market and from 42 to 35 days in the condominium market.

“Properties continue to move well and aren’t spending as much time on the market as last year, or even last month,” added Godsoe. “We were commenting on the low inventory last year at the same time, and this year the listing inventory is even lower. Buyers will need to take that into consideration as they look for a home this spring.” Year to date, listings are 2.7 per cent lower than the same January-to-April period a year ago. Sales are 2.5 per cent higher and the average sale price is 7.9 per cent higher for the period. The numbers for the month of April, 2014 compared to April, 2013:

Municipal Year-to-Date Statistics April 2013 vs April 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 Feb 2014 / 2013

AREA

Based on sales data on all home sales from April 2013 vs April 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

347 331

32 47

198 183

$496,985 $458,113

49 57

98% 98%

BURLINGTON (DIST. 30 to 36 & 38)

2014 2013

1447 1488

107 127

1014 976

$499,395 $476,849

31 33

99% 98%

DUNDAS (DISTRICT 41)

2014 2013

148 140

13 8

93 110

$386,969 $376,869

33 52

98% 98%

GLANBROOK (DISTRICT 53)

2014 2013

191 222

29 27

112 142

$346,617 $326,585

70 66

99% 98%

GRIMSBY (DISTRICT 54,55)

2014 2013

206 199

24 27

138 119

$354,473 $361,839

45 58

98% 97%

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

2014 2013

341 362

32 39

238 271

$223,265 $199,359

33 54

97% 97%

HAMILTON WEST (DIST. 10, 11, 12)

2014 2013

298 313

23 28

217 202

$335,182 $305,636

35 38

99% 99%

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

2014 2013

762 779

59 77

556 566

$302,084 $277,191

32 40

99% 98%

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

2014 2013

456 541

50 87

345 398

$192,560 $170,406

46 47

98% 97%

BEAMSVILLE (DISTRICT 981)

2014 2013

81 92

11 6

70 56

$320,677 $287,162

54 41

98% 98%

WEST LINCOLN (DISTRICT 56, 982)

2014 2013

28 41

8 6

16 18

$365,000 $397,750

57 74

96% 97%

SMITHVILLE (DISTRICT 57)

2014 2013

33 32

1 3

34 16

$284,388 $234,875

72 62

97% 97%

STONEY CREEK (DISTRICT 50,51,52)

2014 2013

493 472

53 60

298 280

$351,253 $328,575

42 43

98% 98%

Check out the Top Real Estate Site for Hamilton Wentworth!

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

May 20, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 7

5 Things to Know When Selling a Home by Yourself Selling a home by yourself means more money in your pocket, but it’s a lot of hard work and there are some things to think about. By: Mark Weisleder Real Estate

Is it worth it to try and sell your home on your own? Why you should use a real estate agent to sell your home.

henever i write about why you should use a real estate agent to sell your home, the mail pours in. i’m sure it will this week, too. i am a real estate lawyer and write courses and teach industry players how to do their jobs more professionally and ethically. i also believe that in many cases you will be better protected and make more money selling your house if you use an agent. Not always, but in many cases. Here’s why I think that: You don’t have to pay upfront: Doit-Yourself marketing companies are not real estate agents. You usually pay $1,000-to- $2,000 up front, for pictures, videos and to have your home listed on the MLS system. However, you get no money back if your home doesn’t sell. With a real estate agent, if your home doesn’t sell, you pay nothing, even though the agent may have spent a lot of time marketing and using all of their own and their company contacts to sell your home. Abidding war is unlikely: Bidding

wars are the norm in the GTA and other parts of Ontario. in virtually all cases, the home is sold by a real estate agent. The reason is that it takes experience to price the home properly. Second, the process is fair because no one knows what anyone else is bidding. With a private seller, there is no duty of confidentiality, so the seller can tell one buyer what another buyer is bidding. Buyers do not trust the process so there is no bidding war. You negotiate on your own: When you do it yourself, it is difficult to know what a fair price is for your home. You might have to pay an appraiser to find out. When a buyer hears that you are saving commission, they will want to split the savings. So you don’t get all the commission savings and you also have to negotiate with a buyer who is likely represented by a real estate agent. This agent will use all their experience to figure out how low you will go, while giving nothing away about their own buyer.

Crossword Puzzle (Solution on Page 5)

Related:Why you should consider a discount broker Not knowing your obligations: Sellers cannot rely on the term “Buyer Beware.” You have to disclose problems with your home and you cannot hide or cover up anything. Otherwise, you can still be sued after closing. Who wants a court fight long after you move? Lenders are more cautious when they see a private deal: i have seen deals collapse this way. in one case, the lender sent their own appraiser because they were concerned the buyer paid too much money. The appraiser agreed and the buyer’s loan commitment was cancelled. The deal died. in another case, the seller was worried the buyers did not have proper financing. They wanted more proof about the buyer’s financial situation than the buyer was willing to give. Lawyers became involved when things could not be worked out amicably. When buyers are represented by agents, they are usually pre-qualified in advance so the seller can have comfort that they will have the money available to close the deal on time. When you’re out for a walk this weekend have a look at the For Sale signs and see how many are represented by realtors. There’s a reason for that. By all means, try and sell your house on your own, just beware that it’s not as easy as it looks.

For Sale by Owner

SUDOKU 7

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3 1 9 7 5 8 6

www. GolfiTeam .com

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

Down

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

Across

8 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

Rob Golfi*

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

BuRlInGtOn

$1,250,000

hAMIltOn eASt

$949,900

360 Plains Road, East

1087 Beach Boulevard

GREAT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNiTY - Value in land, zoned MXG re-development with commercial & residential usage on 60 x 290 ft. lot. High traffic area, great highway access!

$4,993 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

StOneY CReek

$329,900

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.

$1,318 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

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

$737,000

BRAntFORd

$149,900

37 Edgewater Drive

342 Dalhousie Street

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!

LOCATiON ROCKS!! Short bus ride to Wilfrid Laurier Campus. Convenient Location for Tenants. Both units occupied on month to month. Side parking and huge backyard. $475.00 + hydro/water upstairs and $650.00 + hydro/water downstairs. Seller pays gas and water heater rental.

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

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

hAMIltOn Mtn

May 20, 2014

hAMIltOn

$479,900

$599 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

StOneY CReek Mtn

$420,000

72 Sanders Boulevard

58 Foxtrot Drive

WALKiNG DiSTANCE TO MCMASTER! 7 Good sized BRs, 2 baths, lrg eat-in kitch, separate side entrance to inlaw suite. Home currently rented til May ‘14 for $3,095/mth, tenants willing to stay. Updates: new furnace & A/C units ‘10, wired smoke alarms & all rooms are internet, TV, & phone wired.

LARGE OPEN CONCEPT 3 + 1 bedroom family home with formal living room/dining room, large eat in kitchen, family room with gas fireplace, home office or den on main level, large master bedroom, fenced in backyard with above ground pool, large concrete driveway, and double car garage

$1678 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$1,917 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

FREE Home Evaluation BInBROOk

Get your home sold Fast!

$239,900

905.575.7700

25 Viking Drive, Unit #1 FANTASTiC LOCATiON, SHOWS 10++. Award winning design 1198 sq.ft. end unit freehold w/condo road fee. hardwd flrs on main level, walkout to yard from finished lower lvl, good sized storage space off of the garage. Very bright & modern w/nice views.

$958 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

hAMIltOn CtR

$189,900

141 Melrose Avenue North LOCATiON ROCKS!!! Very well maintained 3 bedroom home in a family neighbourhood. Lovely family room addition w/hardwood floors, & huge closets in the bedrooms. Seller removed knob and tube in 2010. Updates include most plumbing, main water line in 2009, furnace and C/A in 2010.

$758 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

TRIPLEX

BInBROOk

$454,900

hAMIltOn CtR

$279,900

hAMIltOn WeSt

$469,900

117 Tanglewood Drive

187 Sanford Avenue North

16 Kingsmount Street North

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.

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.

AMAZiNG 3 BR family home, great McMaster location! Separate 20x30 ft. heated garage. Updates include: furnace, C/A, roof, windows, entry doors, garage door, flooring, bath, eaves, & more. Fully Fenced yard w/above ground pool & 3 tiered deck.

$1817 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

POOL

StOneY CReek

$1118 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

hAMIltOn eASt

$159,900

23 Vansitmart Avenue GREAT LOCATiON! This 3 bedroom, 1 bath home offers an open and inviting floor plan, a large kitchen with plenty of counter space and cupboards, and a fenced yard. Updates include furnace and main roof in 2008. Close to shopping, buses, Redhill and QEW.

$639 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$1877 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

2 AcRES

$639,900

71 Richmond Crescent 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!

$2556 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

StOneY CReek

$619,900

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.

$2476 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

hAMIltOn eASt

$219,900

hAMIltOn Mtn

425 East 15th Street

50 Bell Avenue

LOCATiON ROCKS!! Fabulous South East address! This home offers location, charm & convenience! The kitchen is roomy and has plenty of oak cabinets as well as being open concept which is perfect for entertaining! Living room w/decorative fireplace, large window & cove ceilings, & unfinished basement with 2pc bath. Walk to schools, parks & shopping.

$319,900

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!

$898 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

Call Today 905-575-7700

$1298 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

May 20, 2014

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Page 9

Hamilton, Stoney Creek Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

Rob Golfi*

WATERFRONT

GlAnBROOk

$358,000

BInBROOk

$409,900

hAMIltOn eASt

$449,900

StOneY CReek

$589,900

60 Midanbury Way

260 Binbrook Road

327 Webster Road

90 Seabreeze Crescent

iMPRESSiVE 4 BEDROOM home features a great master suite with a luxurious ensuite and walk in closet. Too many features to list! Eat-in kitchen with patio doors to fenced in yard, main floor laundry, separate dining room and minutes to HWY 6 access. This one won’t disappoint!

“OUT” BUT NOT “FAR OUT” – Half acre beauty w/the sweet smell of country all around, spacious 4 lvl back 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.

iMMACULATE best describes this awesome 4+1 bedrm, 2200 sq.ft., all brick home on premium lot. Hdwd floors mostly throughout, kitchen w/granite counters & breakfast bar, oak staircase, fin. basement w/bedroom & full bathroom.

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.

$1797 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$1637 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

$1430 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

3 AcRES

hAMIltOn CtR

$279,900

51 Bristol Street North BEAUTiFULLY RENOVATED 2 storey, 3 bedroom home with 1.5 bathrooms including a main floor powder room, Cherry wood kitchen, updated windows, roof insulation, kitchen, driveway, exterior, plumbing, electrical furnace and the list goes on! Nothing to do but move in!

$1118 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

StOneY CReek

$549,900

124 Second Road East JUST UNDER 3 ACRES 4+1 bedroom, 2 storey home. Reno’d 7 years ago to include an open concept main floor w/ large dining room for entertaining. Upstairs feat large bedrooms & 2 full baths. in-law w/separate entrance. 3 car heated garage (woodstove) for all the toys.

$2081 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

StOneY CReek

$399,900

hAMIltOn eASt

$117,900

723 Ridge Road

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.

$1597 per/mth P&I / O.A.C.

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

Homes For Sale Bungalows & Raised Ranches Two Storeys • Semis & Town Homes ANCASTER

HAMILTON EAST

HAMILTON WEST

STONEy CRk UPR

GRIMSBy

WEST LINCOLN

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $349,900 28 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $99,000 42 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $189,900 14 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $339,900 5 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $180,000 23 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $335,000 12 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $374,900 108 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $169,900 21 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $249,900 31 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $269,900 34 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $209,997 48 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $300,000 5 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $269,000 46 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $99,999 29 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $199,900 7 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $217,900 19 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $209,900 16 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at / 0 Available

DUNDAS

HAMILTON MTN

HAMILTON CTR

STONEy CRk LWR

LINCOLN

GLANBROOk

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $249,900 12 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $179,900 76 Available

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Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $169,900 29 Available

Bungalows/ Raised Ranches Starting at $300,000 28 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $347,500 23 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $209,500 120 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $69,900 89 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $289,900 77 Available

Two Storeys Starting at $285,000 34 Available

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Semis & Town Homes Starting at $229,900 13 Available

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Semis & Town Homes Starting at $89,900 31 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $197,900 31 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $182,000 28 Available

Semis & Town Homes Starting at $239,900 49 Available

Call Us Today for information on Any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Page 10

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

May 20, 2014

Marketplace Clutter Removal & Organizing

Senior Downsizing

We Guide You Through The Entire Process

WE GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE ENTIRE PROCESS

Pamela Culp Blanchard Cell: 905-971-9568 www.beclutterfree.ca

Pamela Culp Blanchard Cell: 905-971-9568 www.seniordownsizing.ca

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”

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664 FFennell ennell A Ave. ve. 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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