www.OakvilleOntarioRealEstate.ca

www.OakvilleOntarioRealEstate.ca http://activerain.com/blogs/openingdoorsinoakville Oakville real estate, Oakville Ontario homes for sale, Buying and selling in Oakville, Oakville neighbourhoods, Town of Oakville, Jenny Kotulak real estate, Oakville condos, Oakville townhomes, Downtown Oakville en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/1332516/oakville-ontario-sales-statistics-october-2009 Oakville Ontario Sales Statistics - October 2009 <p><strong>The number of home sales in Oakville in October 2009 was a whopping 78% higher than October a year ago.  </strong>Last October saw the beginning of the tumble in the market but the sales rebounded this past spring and we began to see healthy sales stats once again. Consumer confidence returned and the excellent mortgage rates made for a winning combination. </p> <p><strong>The average sale price in Oakville in October 2009 was $600,705, up 12 percent from last October.  </strong>The median sale price of $486,25<strong>0 </strong>saw a 25% climb from the previous year. The average days on market shrunk from 41 in October 2008 to 32 this past month.</p> <p>Our current market has swung to a seller's market in the low and mid price range.  There is a good supply of buyers but low inventory which means that many homes are selling for list price or more with competing offers. Here is an article I wrote with some advice on <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1322306/buying-in-a-seller-s-market-house-hunting-101" title="How to buy in a Seller's Market" target="_blank">How To Buy In A Seller's Market</a>.</p> <p>Many people feel that November and December is not the right time of year to buy or sell real estate but that is a misconception.  Check out the following article on <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317512/why-buy-and-sell-real-estate-in-november-december-why-not-" title="Buy and Sell in November & December" target="_blank">Buying and Selling in November and December. </a></p> <p><strong>Here are some charts showing the sales activity in Oakville for 2009.</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville sales stats" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/1/0/3/7/ar125797155473012.jpg" height="450" alt="Oakville sales statistics, Oakville real estate, Jenny Kotulak, Oakville home sales, Oakville stats, Buying and selling in Oakville, OMDREB, Jenny Kotulak broker, Oakville realtor, " width="600" /></p> <p> </p> <p> Number of Home Sales- January - October 2009</p> <p><img title="Average Sale Prices" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/5/6/4/9/ar125797185294652.jpg" height="450" alt="average sale price Oakville, Oakville sales statistics, Oakville homes sales, buy or sell in Oakville, Jenny Kotulak broker, Oakville real estate" width="600" /></p> <p>Average Sale Price Per Hundred Thousand Dollars in Oakville - January - October 2009</p> <p><img title="Oakville Median Sale Prices" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/3/6/0/9/ar125797202590631.jpg" height="450" alt="median sale prices Oakville, Oakville sales statistics, Oakville real estate, Jenny Kotulak real estate, Jenny Kotulak Oakville, Oakville homes for sale" width="600" /></p> <p>Oakville Median Sale Price Per Hundred Thousand Dollars - January - October 2009</p> <p> </p> <p>Stats Source: OMDREB Tarasoft Matrix</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:02:23 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1332516/oakville-ontario-sales-statistics-october-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1327557/sunday-drive-bronte-creek-provincial-park-oakville-ontario Sunday Drive - Bronte Creek Provincial Park - Oakville, Ontario <p><img title="Bronte Creek Barn" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/3/0/0/ar125774636700333.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Sunlight reflecting in the window</p> <p><img title="Tree at Bronte Creek" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/5/7/4/7/ar125774649374759.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Windchimes ? Kiwis?</p> <p><img title="Bronte Creek" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/5/7/5/5/ar125774660855753.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Kindling Wood?</p> <p><img title="Tree Art" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/4/6/0/ar125774684806496.JPG" height="500" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="375" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Tree & My Shadow</p> <p><img title="Spruce Lea Farm" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/9/8/9/ar125774694298988.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Wheatabix?</p> <p><img title="Bronte Beach Bench" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/1/6/7/8/ar125774705687614.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Bench you can't wait to rest awhile</p> <p><img title="Stairway to Lola" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/7/3/7/6/ar125774716467373.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Stairway to <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">heaven</span> Lola</p> <p><img title="Shades of Green" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/9/6/0/8/ar125774727580697.JPG" height="375" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="500" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Shades of green</p> <p><img title="Fall colours" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/3/9/8/9/ar12577473898938.JPG" height="500" alt="Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Jenny Kotulak photo, Bronte Creek bench" width="375" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>The colours of fall</p> <p><strong>Bronte Creek Provincial Park is located on the border of Oakville and Burlington, Ontario on Burloak Drive.  </strong>The park offers many trails, a children's playbarn, animals and birds, old farmhouses, picnic areas, leash free dog park and a designated overnight campsite.</p> <p><strong>The park also offers a large wade in swimming pool for summer and ice skating in the winter.  </strong>Bronte Creek is a popular destination for all seasons. </p> <p> </p> <p>For Oakville real estate information please contact Jenny Kotulak Your Oakville Community REALTOR.</p> <p>Past President Oakville, Milton & District Real Estate Board</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:27:59 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1327557/sunday-drive-bronte-creek-provincial-park-oakville-ontario http://activerain.com/blogsview/847496/are-power-of-sales-really-a-bargain- Are Power Of Sales Really A Bargain ? <p><br /><strong>There is a public misconception that buyers can get "a steal of a deal" on a "Power of Sale" property. According to the Mortgages Act Ontario </strong><a href="http://www.canlii.net/on/laws/sta/m-40/20080821/whole.html"><strong>http://www.canlii.net/on/laws/sta/m-40/20080821/whole.html</strong></a><strong> the guidelines for handling Power of Sales is very specific</strong>.</p> <p><strong> Once the lender or financial institution has taken over the property, they must sell the property the same way as any other property</strong>. It is usually listed with a REALTOR on mls for the appraised market value. They have to prove that the home is exposed to the open market for the proper amount of time to find a buyer and obtain market value.<br /><br /><strong>The lender has complete control of the negotiations</strong>. Neither the Listing Agent, the Buyer Agent or the buyer will have much say and the offer process is done via fax.<br /><br />The lender usually asks for between 48 hours and 72 hours  irrevocable to review the offer. They will only <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/4/3/1/9/ar12577423891345.jpg" height="298" alt="" width="300" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" />negotiate during business hours and not on weekends. There often seems to be no sense of urgency on the lenders' part, even though usually the property is empty at this point, and the lender is paying for the heat, hydro, taxes, etc. <strong>This is simply a business decision for the Mortgagee</strong>, unlike when you are negotiating with a seller where there is emotional attachment. Negotiations can drag on with a power of sale and the buyer may potentially miss out on another suitable property that comes on the market.<br /><br /><strong>Buyers must be aware that when buying a power of sale, the Mortgagee offers the property in an "as is" condition. There are also no warranties or guarantees provided</strong>. There are usually many schedules attached by the Bank, which I recommend the buyer have their solicitor review.<br /><br /><br />When the property is first listed, it is very unlikely any low offers will be considered. The Mortgagee must be able to prove they did their part to get the highest and best price. After a certain time on the market, the Lender may reduce the price to obtain a suitable offer. At this point the Lender usually is willing to negotiate a little more. Banks and financial institutions don't want to be in the real estate business. Inventory properties must be heated, cooled, winterized, cleaned, etc.<br /><br />Once a power of sale is sold, any equity leftover after the mortgage loan is paid back to the lender, is returned to the mortagor (borrower).<br /><br /><strong>So are there really any deals out there with power of sales? Not usually when they first come on the market. Perhaps, if the property languishes on the market for a few months but in a seller's market as we are experiencing in Oakville right now, power of sales are even getting multiple offers.  When inventory is low, everything sells.<br /></strong><br />It is very important that a buyer obtains a building inspection on a  vacant power of sale property . Often times the home has not been maintained properly prior to becoming a power of sale and as mentioned there is no recourse after closing.<br /><br />When people ask me if there are any bargains out there, I tell them to consider all properties that meet their needs. If a power of sale falls in that category, they can definitely look at it. There are risks involved though.<strong> In a seller's market there are no steals.  Oftentimes there are not even any deals.  Just because a home is listed as a power of sale does not mean the bank is going to "give it away."</strong></p> <p>I feel it is important for REALTORS to educate buyers about power of sale properties instead of giving the impression that  power of sale properties are available for a cut rate price.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sun, 08 Nov 2009 22:56:23 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/847496/are-power-of-sales-really-a-bargain- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1325675/finding-your-way-to-bronte-creek-provincial-park Finding Your Way - To Bronte Creek Provincial Park <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/3/3/8/ar125763700583369.JPG" height="450" alt="" width="600" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>Come out, come out, wherever you are.</p> <p><img title="Little Lola" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/2/1/4/7/ar12576370974127.JPG" height="450" alt="Lola, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="600" style="border: black 10px solid;" /></p> <p>There you are</p> <p> </p> <p>What do you do when the weeds are bigger than you?  Walk on through to the other side, of course. I actually made her go into the weeds.  She got wet and muddy in the creek and I wanted some of it to rub off before she got in the car.  It worked.</p> <p> </p> <p>It's a great time to get out and explore Oakville's trails and parks.  Don't forget Bronte Creek Provincial Park on Burloak Drive north of the Queen Elizabeth Way.</p> <p>For Oakville, Ontario real estate information contact Jenny Kotulak, your Oakville Community REALTOR</p> <p>905-842-7000</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:51:24 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1325675/finding-your-way-to-bronte-creek-provincial-park http://activerain.com/blogsview/1322306/buying-in-a-seller-s-market-house-hunting-101 Buying In A Seller's Market - House Hunting 101 <p><strong>Real estate markets are determined by supply and demand.  </strong>Markets can fluctuate  from a buyer's market to a balanced market to a seller's market and back very quickly for a variety of different reasons. </p> <p><strong>A seller's market is one in which the buyers outnumber the available inventory.  </strong>This results in putting the <img title="Buying In A Seller's Market" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/8/5/8/2/ar12574645928583.gif" height="312" alt="Oakville seller's market, Oakville real estate, Jenny Kotulak broker" width="300" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" />seller in a very solid position to sell quickly for top price.  In order for a buyer to compete with a multitude of others looking in the same price range for limited product they must be fully prepared and educated.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Make sure you work with a REALTOR who will keep you abreast of new inventory as soon as it becomes available.  </strong>Good agents will network with their colleagues to spread the word as to what they are looking for.  </li> <li><strong>Be available to view the property as soon as possible.  </strong>If you put in an offer before competing you are likely to get it for less money.</li> <li><strong>Do not submit a low ball offer.  </strong>In a seller's market there will not likely be much movement in the price when it has just been listed.  Sellers have the confidence that if they don't get their price from you they will wait for the next offer.</li> <li><strong>Make sure you are pre-approved for financing.  </strong>This is not the time to be looking for a property that you aren't sure if you can afford or not.  If you are going to make an offer conditional on financing make sure your bank or mortgage broker has all pertinent information such as income letters, amount of down payment, etc. and that you have discussed interest rate, taxes, maintenance and utility fees.</li> <li><strong>If you do get into a multiple offer situation make sure you put your best figure forward.  </strong>Your chances to negotiate are slim if you are competing so go with your highest and best.  </li> <li><strong>Make sure you are comfortable with your offer price when competing.  </strong>You do not want to have remorse afterwards when you find out what the home sold for and you now wish you had put in a higher offer.  </li> <li><strong>If you know you are competing and you want to prepare a strong offer you may want to do a building inspection on the property before you submit an offer.  </strong>If satisfied you are able to submit your offer without this pending condition. The cleaner the offer, the better chance it will be accepted.</li> <li><strong>Stay positive if your offer or offers are rejected.  </strong>Sit back and regroup.  The right house WILL come along.  Try not to feel pressured.  Often times that may lead you to buy a home for the wrong reasons.  Remember what your priorities were when you started out.  Do not compromise just for the sake of "winning" a bid.</li> <li><strong>Consider renting short term until there is less pressure.  </strong>If you are being transferred and not familiar with the area or prices it may be worth taking the extra time to explore and get a better feel for what neighbourhood would work best for you.</li> <li><strong>Make sure your REALTOR explains fully the multiple offer situation.  </strong>It is important to know when offers are open and closed and how the negotiations will be handled.  Strategy is very important when there are competing offers.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Remember, no matter what the market, the home buying process should not be overly stressful.  </strong>No matter what your price range, you are looking for your future dream home.  This should be an enjoyable experience.  Make sure you choose a local real estate professional who will be your partner in this venture.</p> <p> </p> <p>For information on the current seller's market in Oakville, Ontario contact Jenny Kotulak, Your Oakville Community Realtor.</p> <p>Past President Oakville, Milton & District Real Estate Board</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:46:16 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1322306/buying-in-a-seller-s-market-house-hunting-101 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320771/-orange-you-glad-it-s-fall- Orange You Glad It's Fall ? <p><img title="Fall colours" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/1/5/1/ar125739908215177.jpg" height="400" alt="Fall Colours, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo," width="600" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Taking a walk through the ravines and trails in Oakville, Ontario this fall, you will notice a collage of colours.  Living in Oakville affords you the opportunity to explore the many mature forested areas and creek banks.  </strong>No matter what neighbourhood you live in in Oakville, there is always a park, greenspace, bike paths or ravines nearby.  Sitting on Oakville's Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, I have  the opportunity to hear about the Town's future plans for new and existing parks.  Now's the time to get out and enjoy the last of the fall colours.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:11:08 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320771/-orange-you-glad-it-s-fall- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320105/if-you-had-a-million-dollars-you-d-be-buying-in-oakville- If You Had A Million Dollars You'd Be - Buying In Oakville ? <p><strong>An article in today's Toronto Star with the headline " Pricey homes ride out the recession" led me to do some of my own investigative  research on Oakville's "pricey" properties.</strong>  Tony Wong the journalist who wrote the piece in the Star had this to say about Oakville.</p> <p>"In Oakville, a favourite with Bay Street bankers, prices were down by almost 20 percent earlier this year.  But prices have bounced back: this year's most expensive sale was a waterside home for $7 million."</p> <p><strong>The Star reporter  is correct, the highest sale to date in 2009 in Oakville was a $7 Million Dollar property, but it wasn't on Lake Ontario if that's what he means by waterside.  </strong>The home located in Oakville's east end was north of Lakeshore Road and next to a park although it did have over 3/4 of an acre of it's own parklike property. The newly built custom home offered 13,000 square feet of luxurious living space.    <img title="Dundurn Castle, Hamilton, Ontario" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/4/6/8/ar125739700586492.JPG" height="244" alt="Dundurn Castle, Hamilton,Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="325" style="float: right; margin: 6px; border: black 6px solid;" /></p> <p>There have been 157 homes sold this year so far with a price tag of $1 Million dollars plus.  Seven properties have sold between $3 Million and $7 Million.  Of the 157 properties, 93 of them sold between $1 and $1.5 Million dollars.</p> <p><strong>The average sale price was $1,632,339 with the average days on market being 68 days.  </strong></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How do these statistics compare to 2008?</span></strong></p> <p><strong>For the same time period in 2008, Jan 1. - Nov. 4, 153 homes had sold for $1 Million dollars or more.  </strong>Two homes shared the highest sale price of $5,500,000.  Twelve properties sold between $3 Million and $5.5 Million dollars.  Again the popular price range was between $1 - $1.5 Million with 87 transactions.</p> <p><strong>The average sale price was $1,688,563 with the average days on market being 52.</strong></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">What do these stats show us?</span></strong></p> <ul> <li><strong># of sales up by 4 this year for same time period</strong></li> <li><strong>Average price off by only $56,000 from last year same time period</strong></li> <li><strong>Average days on market was 2 weeks longer this year same time period</strong></li> </ul> <p>For buyers looking to spend over $1,000,000 there are currently 162 properties available for sale in Oakville.  The highest priced listing can be had for $11,900,000.  There are 32 homes available over $3,000,000.</p> <p><strong>If Oakville is indeed a favourite with Bay Street bankers as stated in the Toronto Star, I would be more than  happy to give those potential buyers a tour of available homes.  </strong>Although inventory is depleted in the lower price ranges, the upper end affords a great selection of homes in all Oakville neighbourhoods. </p> <p>Statistics Source :OMDREB Tarasoft Matrix</p> <p>Photo Source : Jenny Kotulak - Dundurn Castle, Hamilton, Ontario - Not For Sale</p> <p> </p> <p>Jenny Kotulak Broker</p> <p>Your Oakville Community REALTOR</p> <p>Past President Oakville, Milton & District Real Estate Board</p> <p> </p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:09:28 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320105/if-you-had-a-million-dollars-you-d-be-buying-in-oakville- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1311961/new-development-in-oakville-north-park-quad-arena-sports-complex New Development In Oakville - North Park Quad Arena & Sports Complex <p><strong>What's new in Oakville?</strong></p> <p><strong>Construction of Oakville's new state of the art sports facility is well under way on the west side of Neyagawa Boulevard, just north of Dundas Street (Highway 5).  </strong>Currently the 79 hectare sports complex is known as North Park.</p> <p>The building currently under construction holds a quad pad arena featuring a 1,500 seat Olympic sized ice surface plus three NHL sized ice pads.  Four soccer fields are to share the property along with a playground, splash pad and leash free dog park.  Future plans also include a cricket patch and BMX/skateboard park.</p> <p><strong>The Town of Oakville also plans to add  a community centre and library at this location once the the area is developed with new housing in the future.  </strong>Oakville Transit will also have to look at servicing the facility.  <strong> </strong></p> <p><img title="North Park Arena" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/4/1/0/2/ar125731397220144.jpg" height="387" alt="North Park Quad Pad Arena Oakville, Ontario" width="500" /></p> <p><img title="North Park Arena" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/2/2/6/2/ar125731561226222.JPG" height="375" alt="North Park Quad Pad Arena Oakville, Ontario" width="500" /></p> <p><strong>For more Oakville Community information contact Jenny Kotulak Broker</strong></p> <p><strong>Your Oakville Community REALTOR</strong></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:26:58 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1311961/new-development-in-oakville-north-park-quad-arena-sports-complex http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317512/why-buy-and-sell-real-estate-in-november-december-why-not- Why Buy And Sell Real Estate In November & December ? - Why Not ? <p><br /><strong>Many people feel that November and December are less than stellar months to buy or sell a home</strong>. I don't believe there is ever a bad time of year to make a real estate transaction.  Here are 10 reasons why  these months present  great opportunities.<br /><br /><strong>1. Unmotivated sellers take their homes off the market. Therefore there is LESS COMPETITION for serious sellers.</strong> Unmotivated sellers will put their homes back on the market in January when a rush of other will also. Chances are they still won't sell unless they are priced correctly and show well.<br /><br /><br /><strong>2. Homes SHOW WELL over the holidays.</strong> Seasonal decorations, warm fires, wonderful smells from the <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/2/3/0/ar125726494203213.JPG" height="225" alt="" width="300" style="float: right; margin: 5px; border: black 5px solid;" />kitchen entice buyers. <strong>TIP:</strong> Leave some cookies on a plate for the potential buyers.<br /><br /><br /><strong>3.There may be LESS SHOWINGS but most showings will be from SERIOUS BUYERS.</strong> People are busy at this time of year and if they are out looking at homes they are usually <strong>MOTIVATED TO BUY.<br /><br /></strong><br /><strong>4. Buyers who have just sold their homes in the FALL MARKET are looking to buy another home.</strong> These are <strong>FIRM BUYERS</strong>. Many want to be in their new home for Christmas. <strong>TIP</strong>: Treat offers from firm buyers like gold.<br /><br /><br /><strong>5.Selling your home in November or December gives you the opportunity to wait until the New Year to buy.</strong> There will be more inventory and you will be in the driver's seat.<br /><br /><br /><strong>6. Many buyers getting transferred need to relocate for the New Year.</strong> Chances are they are scouting for a new home during the holiday season when they have time to bring their family to look.<br /><br /><br /><strong>7. Many people buy homes or condos for their children who are beginning College or University in January. </strong>If you live in a College or University area this is prime time to sell. <strong>TIP: </strong>If you live in a college or university town, you should consider buying an investment property to rent out to students.  <br /><br /><br /><strong>8. For BUYERS,</strong> there may be more room to <strong>NEGOTIATE PRICE</strong> as most sellers on the market are <strong>MOTIVATED</strong> to sell.<br /><br /><br /><strong><img title="Buy and Sell In November and December" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/8/0/9/2/ar125726544029087.jpg" height="225" alt="buy and sell in November and December, decorate to sell, prepare your home to sell, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="300" style="float: left; margin: 5px; border: black 5px solid;" />9. REALTORS are not usually as busy at this time of year.</strong> You will receive their undivided and devoted attention. The same goes for lawyers, mortgage brokers, moving companies, etc. Moving costs may be reduced.<br /><br /><br /><strong>10. Don't forget that life circumstances force people to buy and sell at any time of the year.</strong> The market for marriage, divorce, retirement, inheritance, empty nest syndrome, first time buyer, single buyer <strong>DOESN'T STOP</strong> in <strong>November and December</strong>.</p> <p><strong>TIP: </strong>Consider the months of November and December as<strong> Opportunity Time.</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:51:01 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317512/why-buy-and-sell-real-estate-in-november-december-why-not- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313871/halloween-is-over-time-to-talk-turkey Halloween Is Over - Time To Talk Turkey <p><strong>So Halloween has come and gone for another year.  </strong>We get an extra hour of sleep (or whatever) tonight.  Tomorrow some of us will be late, or is it early for Church, an appointment or event.  Spring ahead - fall back.  Why is it always so confusing? </p> <p><strong>Tomorrow's chores include changing all the clocks back an hour.  </strong>Monday the stores will move any leftover Halloween inventory out and go crazy preparing for Christmas sales.  The flyers will arrive in the mail and in the newspapers from grocery stores offering  sales on turkey.  Fresh, frozen, stuffed, unstuffed, oiled, buttered, greased, organic, corn fed, grain fed, etc. </p> <p><strong>American Thanksgiving must be just around the corner.  </strong>Here in Canada we celebrated Thanksgiving already, in October. No more holidays until Christmas.  Preparing 2 turkey dinners within a month sounds stressful to me.  Sharing two holiday meals so close together with the <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">outlaws </span>inlaws has to be painful for some.</p> <p><strong>I was in Cuba recently and had an opportunity to see some local farms in the countryside. </strong>Turkeys wandered freely around the yards.  Farms here in Canada and the U.S. are fattening up those Toms in time for the holidays.  November is here and like it or not the holidays are fast approaching.</p> <p><strong>So am I supposed to take this leftover pumpkin and make a pie or something</strong></p> <p><img title="Turkey Time" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/5/6/5/7/ar125704700375651.JPG" height="450" alt="turkey in Cuba, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="600" style="border: black 9px solid;" /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:26:54 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313871/halloween-is-over-time-to-talk-turkey http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313061/-how-are-your-parking-skills-smile-you-re-on-candid-camera How Are Your Parking Skills ? - Smile You're On Candid Camera <p><strong>A grandmother in her sixties has been charged with failing to remain at the scene of an accident in a bizarre parking lot incident which has ended up on YouTube with over 1,000,000 views so far. </strong>Granny pulled into the parking lot of a fitess centre near Toronto in her BMW SUV and in a monster truck move, jumped the curb and ended on top of two parked vehicles.</p> <p><strong>After taking a moment to realize what just happened, granny backed up her BMW and exited stage left. </strong>As luck would have it a gym employee found his car with damage to the hood and windshield. Unable to fathom how this could have occurred he opted to review the security video.</p> <p><strong>Granny was BUSTED. She is off to court in December to do some 'splainin Lucy. </strong>As for the gym employee who had just finished paying off his 2004 Hyundai Elantra, there was a bright side to the story. <strong>Hyundai Canada has just presented him with a brand new vehicle to replaced his demolishion derby wreck.</strong></p> <p>As for granny, she is not making any comments to the public although her little escapade has given her her fifteen minutes of fame which I'm sure she would like to go away - very quickly. </p> <p>The moral to the story - <strong>Be good - You never know who is watching you.</strong></p> <p> </p><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Do6pmYfNco0&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Do6pmYfNco0&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1" allowscriptaccess="always" height="364" width="445"></embed></object><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:24:40 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313061/-how-are-your-parking-skills-smile-you-re-on-candid-camera http://activerain.com/blogsview/1311742/my-blog-as-a-marketing-tool- MY BLOG AS A MARKETING TOOL. <p><p><strong>It's not always about the points.  So says Terry Chenier.  </strong>He joined Active Rain 9 months ago and he is soon going to be giving birth to his baby.  His baby book that is.</p> <p>I'm sure when he started blogging at Active Rain last January he had no clue that he would be conceiving.  But since January he has put out (posts) over 450 times.  You would think the poor guy would be tired.</p> <p>But no, he is gathering his specimens and depositing them in one nicely bound and colourful creation for all to enjoy.</p> <p>Congratulations Terry - We await the birth.</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1305050/my-blog-as-a-marketing-tool-">Terry Chenier (Homelife Glenayre)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/5/5/1/6/ar125661270961559.jpg" height="200" alt="" width="152" /></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>I started writing my blog on January 20,2009,</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>and as I write this post, it will be number 451.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>I'm a prolific blogger and am rapidly approaching</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>the 200,000 point plateau. It <span style="text-decoration: underline;">WAS</span> about the points,</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>now it's morphed into being more about providing enjoyment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>for the reader and honing my scribbling skills.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/0/5/2/7/ar125661291372501.jpg" height="163" alt="" width="170" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>My posts are varied, however I tend toward</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>humour and satire, but I tackle pretty much any</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>subject. Along the way, I have attracted a bit of a</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>readership; people seem to enjoy my writing quite a bit.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>This got me thinking. Others may enjoy reading my stuff as well.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Larry Easto, (in Toronto), and I have been talking recently, and we are</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>collaborating on putting together a book of my posts. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/5/6/7/3/ar125661331737652.jpg" height="99" alt="" width="179" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>This will likely be broken down into about 10 chapters:</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Humour, satire, politics, current events, human interest, </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>my "alter ego", The Blogging Guy, etc.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>When completed, this will be sent to my past and present clients,</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>and given to promising future clients.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>I've already had several requests</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>from fellow "Rainers".</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Done in colour and nicely bound, it's not</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>likely to be a throw-away item.</strong> </p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/7/2/0/ar125661354402757.jpg" height="200" alt="" width="189" /><strong>Between juggling real estate, relationships, family and now</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>a book, it gets a little hairy, but I think in the end it will be a good marketing tool</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>and fun to compile. Watch for it in May/ June.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"> </p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:22:38 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1311742/my-blog-as-a-marketing-tool- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1310908/which-way-are-you-heading-going-my-way- Which Way Are You Heading ? - Going My Way? <p><strong>Thinking of <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">migrating </span>moving to Oakville, Ontario?  Or is it time to leave Oakville for greener pastures?  </strong>Many species migrate twice a year.  That's a lot of work.  Building a nest can take some effort.  Settling in, exploring your neighbourhood, making new friends takes time.  New adventures unfold.  <strong>Many thrive in their new surroundings and never look back.  Others eventually make their way back "home".  </strong></p> <p>Whether you are flying solo, with a partner or with a flock always remember <strong>"Home is where the heart is."</strong> </p> <p><img title="Great Blue Heron" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/0/2/4/1/ar12568758114207.JPG" height="375" alt="Great Blue Heron, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img title="Cormorant" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/9/1/6/ar125687587761933.JPG" height="375" alt="cormorants, Burlington Bay, Cootes Paradise" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Baby Ducks" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/9/5/9/ar125687594695989.JPG" height="271" alt="Parry Sound, ducks, Georgian Bay, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Ducks Promenade Park" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/3/9/7/0/ar125687600607935.JPG" height="375" alt="Ducks, Promenade Park, Mississauga, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Blue Heron" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/6/6/7/ar125687617676616.JPG" height="375" alt="Blue Heron, Bayshire Pond, Oakville, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Canada Geese" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/7/8/6/ar125687622868733.JPG" height="375" alt="Lake Ontario, Canada Geese, Jenny Kotulak photo" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Mohawk Haircuts" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/9/1/4/4/ar125687628944195.JPG" height="300" alt="Ducklings, Parry Sound, Georgian Bay, Jenny Kotulak photo" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Swany River" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/1/5/7/6/ar125687637167518.JPG" height="375" alt="Swans, Jenny Kotulak, photo, Burlington Bay" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Turkey Vulture" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/4/3/3/6/ar125687646463345.JPG" height="463" alt="Turkey vulture, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 4px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>If you are thinking of migrating to or from Oakville, call me to help you with your flight plan.</strong></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </strong></p> <p><strong>This post is dedicated to Kevin & LeYen</strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:55:52 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1310908/which-way-are-you-heading-going-my-way- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1306425/holiday-happenings-in-oakville-ontario Holiday Happenings In Oakville, Ontario <p><strong>It's that time of year and downtown Oakville is getting prepared for many upcoming festivities.  </strong>Oakville's downtown core welcomes residents and visitors alike with its' unique boutiques, cafes, popular restaurants and the Towne Square which is always a hub of activity.</p> <p>Other large attractions in downtown Oakville are the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, the Oakville Harbour and Pier and Erchless Estate Museum. </p> <p><strong>Here's what's coming up in Downtown Oakville</strong></p> <p><strong>October 30, 2009 - Tiny Tots On Parade</strong></p> <p><strong> This annual event celebrates year number 15 with little ghosts, goblins and munchkins all dressed up and taking to the streets all for the enjoyment of local shoppers and shopkeepers.  All treats, no tricks.</strong></p> <p><strong>November 21, 2009 - Santa Claus Parade</strong></p> <p><strong>Santa Claus is coming to downtown Oakville just like he has done for over 60 years.  </strong>The Santa Claus parade winds its way through downtown Oakville streets beginning at 9:00 a.m.  Local marching bands and plenty of floats will appeal to big and little kids.</p> <p><strong>November 30, 2009 - Tree Lighting Ceremony</strong></p> <p><strong>The annual downtown tree lighting ceremony takes place in Towne Square with special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Carollers will be on hand to entertain and hot apple cider will be served as refreshments.  </strong>Festivities begin at 7:00 p.m. with the lighting of the tree at 7:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>November 28 - December 20, 2009 - Christmas In Downtown Oakville</strong></p> <p>Oakville's downtown shopping area will be a hubub of activity with shops decorated for the holiday season and full of beautiful items to entice shoppers looking for that perfect gift. <strong>On weekends strolling carollers will fill the sidewalks with sounds of holiday joy and horsedrawn wagons will give rides down Lakeshore Road.</strong></p> <p><img title="Downtown Oakville,Ontario" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/1/2/4/7/ar125670862374217.jpg" height="334" alt="Downtown Oakville, Towne Square, Oakville Ontario" width="500" /></p> <p>For local Oakville information please visit <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a></p> <p>Jenny Kotulak Broker</p> <p>Your Oakville Community REALTOR</p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:49:46 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1306425/holiday-happenings-in-oakville-ontario http://activerain.com/blogsview/1303320/take-a-hike-and-i-mean-that-in-the-nicest-way Take A Hike - And I Mean That In The Nicest Way <p><strong>Fall is in full swing (bloom) in Oakville.  </strong>Most of the colours have peaked.  The gusty winds have turned green lawns to yellow, red and orange as the leaves come tumbling down.  Our days are getting shorter.  Next weekend we set our clocks back.  <strong>Remember spring ahead - fall back.  Yes, you get an extra hour of sleep.</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong>But what a pain having  to change every clock<strong> </strong>in the house, on the stove, the microwave, the radios, the cars, your watches. Luckily our computers, Blackberries, etc. are very smart and they do it automatically. <strong>  Don't forget  to change the batteries in the smoke detector.  Many are now hardwired so this ritual may  soon become a chore of the past.</strong></p> <p><strong>This is a great time of year  to discover ravines and trails  in Halton Region.  Check out the </strong><a href="http://www.conservationhalton.on.ca" title="Conservation Halton" target="_blank"><strong>Conservation Halton</strong></a><strong> website for a list of local Conservation Areas.  </strong>With Halloween just around the corner a great source of information for local pumpkin patches, hay rides and corn mazes in the Oakville and Greater Toronto Area  is<a href="http://www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org/CATOpumpkins.php" title="Pumpkin Patches And More" target="_blank"> Pumpkin Patches And More</a>.<strong>  This site also has great pumpkin recipes and tips on how to carve and decorate a pumpkin. The site also gives pumpkin patch locations for all areas of Canada and the United States.</strong></p> <p>Go out and have some fun this fall.</p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><img title="Fall colours" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/6/6/8/ar125653142986692.JPG" height="500" alt="Oakville, Ontario, fall colours, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="375" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Sitting On The Fence</strong></p> <p><img title="Fall colours" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/4/2/3/ar125653021332454.JPG" height="375" alt="Fall Colours, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo," width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Tree Magnifique</strong></p> <p><img title="Red leaves and berries" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/3/6/7/ar125653040476369.JPG" height="375" alt="red berries, Oakville, Ontario, fall colours, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Berry, Berry Nice</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville hostas, fall colours" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/9/2/8/ar125653055482968.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville, Ontario, fall colours, hostas, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Hosta La Vista Baby</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville leaves" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/1/1/1/9/ar125653074091118.JPG" height="375" alt="Fall leaves, Oakville trees, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>The Long And Winding Road</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville field of colour" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/9/9/7/8/ar125653099487997.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville fields and ravines, Jenny Kotulak photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Fade To Gray</strong></p> <p><img title="Cloudy Skies" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/2/8/6/9/ar125653164096822.JPG" height="375" alt="Clouds in Oakville, Fall in Oakville, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Cloudy Canopy</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville forests and ravines" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/5/0/7/ar125653188170596.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville forest, Oakville trees, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, Oakville ravines" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Hello Yellow</strong></p> <p><img title="Oakville forests and ravines" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/9/3/3/9/ar125653204493398.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville trails, Oakville ravines, Oakville forests, Oakville, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Watering Hole</strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:33:10 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1303320/take-a-hike-and-i-mean-that-in-the-nicest-way http://activerain.com/blogsview/1300749/google-bing-no-longer-just-the-facts-ma-am-they-re-going-for-touchy-feely Google & Bing - No Longer "Just The Facts Ma'am" - They're Going For Touchy Feely <p><strong>Just when some people were  thinking that Twtter was never going to be as popular as Facebook, doesn't  Google and Microsoft make the big announcement this week that they will be  integrating Tweets into their search results.  </strong>Very interesting news.  Google says it has come to an agreement with Twitter and plans to go live in a few months and Microsoft has already launched a new beta feature on Bing. <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/8/0/7/ar125635592070863.jpg" height="194" alt="" width="275" style="float: right; margin: 4px;" /></p> <p>So now in addition to searching Google for <strong>"just the facts ma'am",</strong> you will also be able to search for thoughts and feelings.  Huh?  Well isn't that how a vast number of Twits or Twitterers use the forum? </p> <p> Real time updates in 140 characters or less.  Instant communication with whoever cares to listen (follow).  Yes, many current world events and major news stories are spreading like wildfire through the Twittersphere. <strong>But have you had a really good look at some of the gobbledy goop that is being tweeted daily?   This is what is going to end up on Google?</strong></p> <p><strong><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/5/1/6/5/ar125635598056151.jpg" height="133" alt="" width="200" style="float: left; margin: 4px;" />Pick a subject, any subject.  </strong>Go onto Twitter and someone will be discussing it. If they like something they will <strong>retweet it.  Every other tweet contains a link to somethng else, or so it seems.</strong>  Want spam?  Lots of it there also. Many people claim they are using Twitter very successfully for business.  It is a social networking tool that some use very effectively.</p> <p> You can be sure that many of your followers would also love to sell you something.  Twitter is a free, open marketplace.  How many adult content followers have you had to block?  Hint: When you see someone who wants to follow you is already following hundreds of people but they only have 1 or 2 people following them, the red flags should go up. <strong>Block them immediately. </strong></p> <p><strong>Hopefully Microsoft and Google will have a good screening process before incorporating tweets into their  search engines.  </strong>Isn't Google already crowded with information? If I search Google for croissants am I going to see a tweet telling me what Billy Bob had for lunch today or how about a search for diapers? A tweet about how many  Mary Sue soiled today? As of now I can go to <strong>Twitter</strong> if I want to know.  <strong>I'm really not sure I want to go to Google to find out.  </strong>How will Google and Bing determine who gets top rating and higher page ranking?</p> <p><strong>The Google and Microsoft Gods must be  very smart people so I'm sure the logistics have been ironed out. </strong></p> <p><strong>What's next?  Are our Facebook status updates going to show up on internet search engines?  </strong>Actually it would seem that <strong>Microsoft</strong> has future plans for just that, although a release date hasn't been set yet. <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/9/8/6/ar125635606868965.jpg" height="136" alt="" width="250" style="float: right; margin: 4px;" /></p> <p>Be careful what you blog.  Be careful what you tweet.  Be careful what you say on your <strong>Facebook status</strong> updates.  Your thoughts and feelings are about to become public domain.</p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:49:00 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1300749/google-bing-no-longer-just-the-facts-ma-am-they-re-going-for-touchy-feely http://activerain.com/blogsview/1296411/halloween-in-oakville-ontario-memories-i-have-a-few Halloween In Oakville, Ontario - Memories I Have A Few <p><strong>It's that time of year.  Days are getting shorter and cooler.  Trees in Oakville are changing colour.  Halloween must be right around the corner.  </strong> October 31 is always a fun time for both children and adults.<img title="Kotulak Halloween" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/2/0/8/ar125618077980292.jpg" height="295" alt="Kotulak Halloween" width="200" style="float: right; margin-left: 4px; margin-right: 4px;" /></p> <p>Invitations get sent for costume parties.  The stores are full of assorted candy and chocolate bars.  Have you noticed that chocolate bars seem to shrink in size every year?  Full size became fun size.  Pretty soon they will be called trial size. </p> <p> <strong>Department stores are crowded with halloween costumes fighting for space next to the Christmas decorations which  mysteriously make it to the floor earlier and earlier every year, it seems.   </strong></p> <p> <p><strong>This year Halloween falls on a Saturday.</strong>  Parents everywhere are happy as they don't have to get the kids off to school the next day.  Teachers are happy as they won't have kids coming to school with sugar highs and backpacks full of treats the day after.  By the time Monday rolls around some children will have polished off the whole lot.</p> <p> <strong>When I was young my mother made my siblings and I dump our loot bags and she would collect all the apples, caramels, suckers, and candy kisses.  </strong>Those would be shared treats when everything else had been devoured. </p> </p> <p> As my kids grew up Halloween was always a stressful event in our home.  Trying to get 4 kids ready and out the door was no mean feat.  I am a creatively challenged person.  I don't sew.   Most years my kid's costumes were lacklustre at best.  <strong>Also, my husband always seemed to have a video camera stuck in my face during the stressful getting dressed up to go out  stage.  </strong>I will have to go find those tapes and watch them.  I know they weren't my finest moments.<strong>  </strong></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/0/6/3/9/ar125617941393603.jpg" height="295" alt="" width="200" style="float: left; margin: 6px;" />Supper would be a scramble.  It seemed like the neighbourhood kids would be banging on the door before it even got dark.  Get the pumpkin lit and put outside.  Get the treats put in a bowl by the front door.  Decide who was taking the kids and who was dishing out the goodies. Console the baby who was screaming at her brother's monster makeup.  Put that @#$% video camera down and <strong>HELP me.</strong></p> <p>It is usually cold or rainy in Oakville on Halloween.  The kids don't want to wear coats over their costumes. Some parents would stand on the sidewalk and wave as their little ones would come to the door. Some parents would come to the door and take a peek inside at my upside down house. Now that was a real treat.</p> <p>My kids  would take pillow cases to fill with their treats. Then there was the UNICEF boxes.  Shoot, I had to scramble to find some change to put by the front door.  Sometimes the kids  would be back to dump their full pillow case and head back out. As my kids got older they would want to go trick or treating with their friends and not have mom or dad tag along any more.</p> <p>When everyone was finally finished they would scatter their goodies on the family room floor.  I would search for anything that looked tampered with our sketchy.  The doorbell would continue to ring after 8:00 p.m. but the costumed ones were much older at that time of night.  <strong>In fact I could swear some of them were back for seconds.  Sometimes we would run out of goodies by that tiime and I'd have to turn off the porch light and blow out the pumpkin candles. </strong>Sometimes there would be lots left over and  temptation would set in.</p> <p><strong>I had my favourites.  Kit Kat and Coffee Crisp.  </strong>I know I shouldn't have indulged but they ARE only trial size now right?  My kids are grown now  too old to go trick or treating.  Now there are parties with their friends.  My Halloweens are relatively calm.  The only excitement is my dog Lola barking at the goblins and gremlins running through the streets. <strong>I must get those old videos out.  Pass the Kit Kat.</strong></p> <p><strong>A happy and safe Halloween to all.</strong></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/7/3/5/ar125618100653776.jpg" height="443" alt="" width="300" /><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/3/1/5/3/ar125618110935139.jpg" height="332" alt="" width="225" /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:30:20 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1296411/halloween-in-oakville-ontario-memories-i-have-a-few http://activerain.com/blogsview/1286742/oakville-ontario-sales-statistics-third-quarter-2009 Oakville Ontario Sales Statistics - Third Quarter 2009 <p><strong> Home sales in Oakville, Ontario in the third quarter of 2009 continued to accelerate.  Both the number of sales and the average sale price have surpassed those recorded for the same time period in 2008.<br /><br /></strong>The increase in the number of sales month over month compared to 2008 began in May of this year and  continued through September. Limited inventory in Oakville has resulted in the demand for housing outstripping the supply.<br /><br />This originally led to a balanced market but has tipped somewhat to a seller's market with many homes selling over list price in record time with multiple offers. Low interest rates continue to spur the buyers plus somewhat more confidence in the economy and job stability.<br /><br /><strong>Home Sales - July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009 - Oakville, Ontario = 964<br />Home Sales - July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008 - Oakville, Ontario = 712<br /><br /></strong>Sales Range - July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009 - Oakville, Ontario = $150,000 - $7,000,000<br />Sales Range - July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008 - Oakville, Ontario = $139,500 - $5,500,000<br /><br />Average Days on Market - July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009 = 38  <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/3/0/9/ar125562944690389.gif" height="312" alt="" width="300" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" /><br />Average Days on Market - July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008 = 40<br /><br /><strong>Average Sale Price - July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009 = $531,446.<br />Average Sale Price - July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008 = $500,584<br /></strong><br />Sales over $1,000,000 - July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009 = 52<br />Sales over $1,000,000 - July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008 = 29<br /><br /><strong>Sales Breakdown July 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009</strong><br />Detached = 564<br />Semi-Detached = 37<br />Freehold Townhomes = 164<br />Condo Townhomes = 72<br />Condo Apartments = 107<br />Other = 20<br /><br /><strong>Sales Breakdown July 1, 2008 - September 30, 2008<br /></strong>Detached = 405<br />Semi-Detached = 37<br />Freehold Townhomes = 129<br />Condo Townhomes = 52<br />Condo Apartments = 81<br />Other = 8<br /><br /><strong>Statistics indicate that the number of home sales in Oakville, Ontario increased in the third quarter over the same period in 2008 by 35.4% and the average sale price increased by 6.17%.<br /><br /></strong>The Oakville market is extremely stable with positive signs for the remainder of 2009.<br /><br />For more information on the Oakville real estate market please contact <strong>Jenny Kotulak Broker, RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario<br />905-842-7000<br /></strong><br />Follow Jenny on Twitter - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/@oakvilleontario" title="Follow Jenny" target="_blank">@oakvilleontario</a> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> <br /><br />Stats Source - OMDREB Tarasoft Matrix</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:05:20 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1286742/oakville-ontario-sales-statistics-third-quarter-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1284671/just-call-me-bloggy-anna- Just Call Me Bloggy-Anna! <p><p>Let's all get together and help Candice win this contest.  Wouldn't it be great for her and for AR?  We all know what a prolific writer she is and I wish I could harness some of her enthusiasm.  To vote for her, just press click here in her post below.</p> <p>Don't forget to reblog her post for further exposure.</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1277456/just-call-me-bloggy-anna-">Candice A Donofrio, Broker Fort Mohave, AZ Txt 928-201-4242 </a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p style="text-align: left;"><strong>I've been accused of Pollyanna overoptimism many times. I'll own that. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">But why change that if it works/? To me, that's just practicality!</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img title="Comps of sweetie259pie @ photobucket!" src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/sweetie259pie/Cartoons/ren-n-stimpy.gif" height="208" alt="" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 10px; float: right;" width="219" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">I just figure that things will work out if I keep moving forward.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">And even something that seems negative on the surface is actually a blessing. In other words, RETROFIT A SETBACK INTO A STRENGTH.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Aside from the occasional, temporary crash/burns a 52-in-December-post-menopausal-married woman (juxtaposition thoroughly intentional) would have ...</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>I'm pretty darn lucky and would not trade my life with anyone else's.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">ANYHOO:</p> <p style="text-align: left;">I saw this contest that a vitamin company (Nature Made) is putting on. (We do actually use their products, BTW. My husband and I are huge vitamin users/abusers.)</p> <p style="text-align: left;">They are looking for someone in a good mood to blog about it and how to get there naturally.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>The spoils are a 6 month blogging contract. Paid.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">An extra 5k a month for doing what I already do would not hurt my feelings either!</p> <p style="text-align: left;">So I applied.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>I'd like to harness the power of the AR community to help me get there.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">All you need to do is <a href="http://www.sam-e.com/job/profile/6" title="THANK YOU FOR HELPING! :)" target="_blank"><strong>click HERE</strong></a>  and vote. You can vote once a day. Please do so as much as you have time between now and the 23rd. Right now the most votes are almost 1000. Can you help me catch up?</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Reblog at will. Bookmark and keep the post going by any means necessary. HA!</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Thanks! Now blogjack this puppy!</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Rule Number One: NO rules as long as you VOTE!</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.realestatebhc.com/web-ready.gif" alt="" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.realestatebhc.com/">www.RealEstateBHC.com</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.commercialbhc.com/">www.CommercialBHC.com</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.realestatebhc.biz/">www.RealEstateBHC.biz</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>866-228-2643</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="mailto:Candice@RealEstateBHC.com" title="e-mail Candice for more info or to make an OFFER ONLINE!" target="_blank"><em><strong>Candice A. Donofrio, Owner/Designated Broker</strong></em></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.loopnet.com/profile/14350646621/Candice-A-Donofrio-ABR-ASR-CCSS-e-PRO/?LinkCode=22450" title="Click Here For Some Of Our Commercial Listings!" target="_blank">Certified Commercial Sales Specialist</a></strong></em></p></div></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:48:12 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1284671/just-call-me-bloggy-anna- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1269520/sunday-drive-on-the-waterfront Sunday Drive - On The Waterfront <p><img title="Cormorand" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/3/0/8/5/ar125471226758034.JPG" height="375" alt="Cormorand Cootes Paradise Hamilton, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Cormorant Looking For Lunch</p> <p><img title="Hamilton Bay Birds" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/7/5/8/4/ar125471242348571.JPG" height="375" alt="Hamilton Harbour, Hamilton Bay, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Sky High View</p> <p><img title="Boardwalk Hamilton Bay" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/4/8/5/8/ar125471255485847.JPG" height="375" alt="Highway 403, York Blvd. Hamilton, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Bridges Over Untroubled Water</p> <p><img title="Cormorand" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/8/8/0/ar125471277208892.JPG" height="375" alt="Cormorand Cootes Paradise Hamilton, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Cormorant Going Fishing</p> <p><img title="Cormorands" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/6/3/7/1/ar12547128717362.JPG" height="375" alt="Cormorands, Hamilton Bay, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Cormorant Island - Burlington Skyway Bridge</p> <p><img title="Hamilton Bay Birds" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/1/6/8/4/ar125471295848611.JPG" height="375" alt="Hamilton Harbour, Hamilton Bay, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Leaving Town - Hamilton Waterfront Harbour</p> <p><img title="Burlington, Ontario" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/2/6/5/ar125471304856277.JPG" height="375" alt="Burlington Bay, Hamilton, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Before The Rain</p> <p><img title="Posing Cormorands" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/5/4/2/ar125471317024513.JPG" height="375" alt="Cormorands, Hamilton Bay, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Bathing Suit Competition</p> <p><img title="Burlington Skyway Bridge" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/6/3/2/4/ar125471326642361.JPG" height="375" alt="Skyway Bridge, Burlington, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Burlington Skyway Bridge</p> <p><img title="Hamilton Harbour Queen" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/2/3/2/ar125471335923229.JPG" height="375" alt="Hamilton Harbour, Hamilton Bay, Jenny Kotulak" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p>Hamilton Harbour Cruise</p> <p><strong>This is a great time of the year to head to the lakes or harbours to catch the migrating wildlife.  Excellent</strong> places to find differenct species are Oakville and Bronte Harbours, LaSalle Park in Burlington and Cootes Paradise and Hamilton Bay.  Bring your camera, enjoy the sights and sounds and enjoy walking along boardwalks and piers. </p> <p>Jenny Kotulak photos</p> <p>Windows of the World Photography</p> <p>WoW 2009</p> <p> </p> <p>Thinking of moving to Oakville?  Contact Jenny Kotulak Broker, your Oakville Community REALTOR. </p> <p>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage</p> <p>905-842-7000</p> <p><a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sun, 04 Oct 2009 22:54:26 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1269520/sunday-drive-on-the-waterfront http://activerain.com/blogsview/1268265/hang-up-and-drive-or-else- Hang Up And Drive - Or Else ! <p><strong>It's coming and you better be prepared.  </strong>Effective <strong>October 26,2009</strong> the Province of Ontario's <strong>distracted-driving law comes into effect.  </strong>Ontario's drivers will have a grace period until Feb. 1, 2010 to acquire a hands-free device for their cellphones, Blackberries, etc.  <img title="Hang UP And Drive" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/1/7/2/7/ar125462774472717.jpg" height="266" alt="Hang Up And Drive" width="350" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" /></p> <p><strong>Police will issue fines after that point up to $500 with no demerit points.  </strong>Using earbuds, adjusting GPS units and iPods are also a no-no while behind the wheel.  Exemptions include driver placed 911 calls, emergency service vehicles, truckers and other commercial drivers. A 3 year grace period has been offered to truckers to replace CB radios with new technology.</p> <p><strong>The new legislation also specifically refers to DVD's and Laptops, which I concur are very scary distraction for a driver.  </strong>According to a 2009 study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, drivers who dial and text behind the wheel have nearly <strong>three</strong> times the risk of being in a crash.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sat, 03 Oct 2009 22:47:23 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1268265/hang-up-and-drive-or-else- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1268251/how-do-you-choose-the-right-real-estate-agent- How Do You Choose the Right Real Estate Agent? <p><p>Steve Shatsky wrote this great post about how to choose the right real estate agent.  I had never seen this 4 C approach but it makes perfect sense.</p> <p>Bravo to Steve for converting this prospective client into a listing appointment, all from a blog post he had written that she had read.</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1258811/how-do-you-choose-the-right-real-estate-agent-">Steve Shatsky - Dallas Real Estate & Short Sale Specialist (469)449-9840 (Prudential Texas Properties)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>I had a very interesting phone conversation earlier this evening.<span>  </span>I was speaking with a prospective client who saw a post I had written about choosing the right real estate agent and the prospective client asked me, <em><strong>“How do figure out who the “right” real estate agent is?”</strong></em></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I told her about my <strong>4 C’s</strong> approach to evaluating agents.<span>  </span>I always advise people when talking to a prospective agent to look for these 4 things:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Competency:</strong><span>  </span>Do they have the right level of experience, education and can they demonstrate that to you?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Compassion:</strong><span>  </span>Do they understand your goals/objectives and challenges or difficulties you may be facing?<span>  </span>And are they committed to helping you achieve or overcome them?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Consistency:</strong><span>  </span>In your conversations with them, does everything “fit” together well or are the things they are telling you sounding like sales pitches that address your questions but don’t seem to flow together?<span>  </span>Hint: if you are getting inconsistent information now, it isn’t likely to get better after you have hired an agent.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Chemistry:</strong><span>  </span>Is there a connection between yourself and the agent that you are interviewing.<span>  </span>If you don’t enjoy talking with the agent, you probably won’t enjoy working with them either.<span>  </span>Chemistry is more than just someone who makes you laugh… it should indicate someone you respect and trust.<span>  </span>If you don’t respect or trust your agent, you are choosing the wrong one.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">By the end of the 45 minute call, this prospective client is ready to list.<span>  </span>We have an appointment set for later this week.<span>  </span>Now that’s what I call an ActiveRain Success Story…<span>  </span>Blog to Call to Listing in less than a day!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><em>So, what do you think someone should look for when choosing a real estate agent?</em></strong></p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Sat, 03 Oct 2009 22:02:13 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1268251/how-do-you-choose-the-right-real-estate-agent- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263739/jimmy-buffett-made-me-do-it- Jimmy Buffett Made Me Do It <p><strong>My new car has Serius XM radio and I found a channel today called Margaritaville. </strong>I hadn't heard a Jimmy Buffett song on the radio for ages so I must say I really got into the music. Upbeat, fun music that reminded me of being on a Caribbean vacation and made me want to be on one again.</p> <p><strong>It also made me think about whether the speculation that the two very rich Buffetts, Warren and Jimmy were related was true or not.</strong></p> <p><strong>I found this <a href="http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/06/11/100060549/index.htm" title="Jimmy Buffett - Warren Buffett" target="_blank">Fortune magazine article</a> which noted that the two uncommon Buffetts provided their DNA in 2007 to see if indeed they did have a common bond. </strong></p> <p><strong> The DNA results concluded that Jimmy and Warren do have common ancestors. </strong>The only hitch is that you have to go back 10,000 years to find that connection. Other than the fact that they are both wealthy, they also both play stringed instruments. <strong>I've yet to see Warren Buffett play an instrument or Jimmy Buffett wear a suit. </strong></p> <p>Listening to that radio station REALLY made me want to take a vacation. And my husband just happens to be on vacation next week.</p> <p><strong> I went online tonight to look at vacations just for fun. (Just like consumers go online to look for properties for sale). I found a last minute trip to Cuba leaving this coming Tuesday for a week, for a great price. </strong>I couldn't resist. I filled in my information, pressed send and presto - no turning back.</p> <p><strong>I guess I can blame Jimmy for my impulsiveness. </strong>My husband has gone out and deleted the Margaritaville station from the pre set buttons on the car. Too late.</p><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6cbX4DUACYU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6cbX4DUACYU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" allowscriptaccess="always" height="364" width="445"></embed></object> <div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Fri, 02 Oct 2009 22:49:53 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263739/jimmy-buffett-made-me-do-it- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263912/wordless-wednesday-on-the-horizon Wordless Wednesday - On The Horizon <p><img title="On the horizon" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/1/2/9/2/ar125437079829212.JPG" height="375" alt="Lake Ontario, Oakville Shoreline, Jenny Kotulak photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Oakville Pier, Oakville Harbour, Oakville, Ontario" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/3/3/1/9/ar125437095391331.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville Harbour, Oakville pier, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><img title="Overlooking Lake Ontario" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/7/9/1/ar125437108219796.JPG" height="375" alt="Oakville Harbour, Oakville pier, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Oakville, Ontario -  A Premier Lakeside community located within a half hour commute to Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario.  Thinking of making a move to Oakville?  Contact Jenny Kotulak your Oakville Community REALTOR,</strong><strong> for all your real estate needs.</strong></p> <p><strong>Visit <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> for Oakville statistics, neighbourhood information, important community links.  Open 24/7 for your convenience.  </strong></p> <p><strong>Jenny Kotulak, Broker</strong></p> <p><strong>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario</strong></p> <p><strong>Past President Oakville, Milton & District Real Estate Board</strong></p> <p><strong>Photo Location: Oakville Harbour</strong></p> <p><strong>Jenny Kotulak Photos</strong></p> <p><strong>Windows of the World Photography</strong></p> <p><strong>WoW 2009</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:41:16 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263912/wordless-wednesday-on-the-horizon http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263444/name-that-photo-if-you-can-the-reveal Name That Photo - If You Can - The Reveal <p><strong>Yes it's time to reveal the photo answer to my last Name That Photo posting.  </strong>I don't really need to reveal the answer, as it was guessed by many smart people.  I only have to post the reveal photos.</p> <p><strong>I zoomed in on the base of <a href="http://gowaterfalling.com/waterfalls/tews.shtml" title="Tews Falls" target="_blank">Tews Falls</a> in Dundas, Ontario to take the photo.  </strong>There is a great hiking trail between Tews Falls and Webster's Falls (see a previous post for photos)  <strong>I recently found out that Hamilton, Ontario is the <a href="http://www.cityofwaterfalls.ca/" title="Waterfall Capital" target="_blank">Waterfall Capital of The World</a> due to the number of different types of falls in the area.  </strong>Dundas lies just on the outskirts of Hamilton about a half hour drive from my home.</p> <p><strong>I am now on a mission to check out many of the other waterfalls in the area.  </strong>Next on my agenda, when I get a chance will be the <strong><a href="http://gowaterfalling.com/waterfalls/devilspunchbowl.shtml" title="Devil's Punchbowl Falls" target="_blank">Devil's Punchbowl</a></strong>.</p> <p><img title="Tews Falls" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/5/2/4/ar125434801842529.JPG" height="375" alt="Tews Falls, Dundas, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" style="border: black 11px solid;" /></p> <p> <img title="Tews Falls" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/5/1/9/6/ar125434754869152.JPG" height="600" alt="Tews Falls, Dundas, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="450" /></p> <p><img title="Tews Falls" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/6/4/2/2/ar125434770422466.JPG" height="375" alt="Tews Falls, Dundas, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" /></p> <p><img title="Tews Falls" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/3/1/9/2/ar125434781129136.JPG" height="375" alt="Tews Falls, Dundas, Ontario, Jenny Kotulak, photo" width="500" /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="float: left;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/0/5/ar125221873150563.jpg" alt="" width="77" height="112" /><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">    </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"> <strong><span style="font-size: small;">Jenny Kotulak Broker - </span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Brokerage, Oakville, Ontario 905-842-7000</span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>             <a href="http://www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca">www.oakvilleontariorealestate.ca</a> </span></span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> <script src="http://businesscard2.com/js/embedCard.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"></script> </p> <p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jennykotulak"><img style="border:0" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" alt="Bookmark and Share" width="125" height="16" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=jennykotulak" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario) Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:52:57 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263444/name-that-photo-if-you-can-the-reveal