Sally Dollar, Sales Representative - Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage

Sally Dollar - Royal LePage Niagara Home Connection Newsletter December 2009

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:22:37 -0600

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
Visit www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	MLS Home Sales Forecast Revised
·	Home Insurance Rates Soar
·	Year End Tax Planning

November gone with No Snow for Niagara!

Hello friends, family! Fall went by in a blurr and here comes Christmas! This is typically a quieter time for real estate sales as we get closer to Xmas parties, get-togethers, shopping and snowy weather. Now is a wonderful time to start researching your real estate plans for 2010. Do you want to know how much your home will be worth, are you thinking you may want to buy or sell or know someone who needs information? My website is updated regularly and contains valuable information and tips - take a look. refer a friend. Knowing can save you time and money.


Great Bi-level in Thorold $189,900.00

OVERSIZED RAISED BUNGALOW ON LARGE PIE SHAPED CUL-DE-SAC LOT WITH NO REAR NEIGHBOURS. CALIFORNIA LIGHTING IN THE EAT IN KITCHEN, FORMAL DINING ROOM WITH LAMINATE FLOORS, `L` SHAPED MASTER BEDROOM, OVERSIZED MAIN 4PC BATHROOM, 11.8X9.8 W/CORNER TUB & SEPARATE SHOWER. FINISHED REC ROOM WITH GAS FIREPLACE, EXERICISE ROOM, ANOTHER BEDROOM & SLIDING PATIO DOORS AT GRADE LEVEL. ABOVE GROUND POOL WITH UPDATED ACCESSORIES. CALL ME & TAKE A LOOK!!

Good news! This information is fabulous for all you homeowners and potential buyers. Let me know if you would like specific stats for our Niagara area....

Monthly MLS home sales activity continues to run strong, with new monthly records set in July, September, and October. This has prompted The Canadian Real Estate Association to revise its MLS home sales forecast for 2009 and 2010. CREA now forecasts national activity will reach 460,200 units in 2009, up 6.6 per cent from last year. CREA's previous forecast issued in August had annual sales this year about even with 2008 levels. The new sales forecast for 2009 puts activity about on par with annual activity in 2004, but below levels reported for the years 2005 through 2007.
British Columbia and Ontario are still forecast to post annual increases in activity this year, but the forecast has been lifted as a result of recent record level activity in both provinces. In addition, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Prince Edward Island are also now forecast to post an annual increase in activity in 2009.
National MLS home sales activity is forecast to rise seven per cent to 492,300 units in 2010. This is a slightly larger rise in activity than previously forecast. This would make 2010 the second highest year on record for sales, putting activity below the peak reached in 2007, and slightly above the 2005 and 2006 figures.
The forecast increase in activity for 2010 reflects significant weakness in activity recorded in the first quarter of 2009. Monthly activity in 2010 is expected to trend downward from recent heights, but the sharp drop inactivity recorded in the in the first quarter of 2009 is not expected to repeat in 2010.
New listings began declining in the third quarter of 2008, as many sellers took their home off the market pending an improvement in housing market conditions. CREA's previous forecast suggested that average price increases in the second half of 2009 would likely result in mild a rebound in listings. In the third quarter of 2009, the number of new listings did post the first quarterly increase in more than a year, which coincided with the return of strong average price increases. New residential listings are expected to continue trending upward.
The national MLS average home price is forecast to climb 4.2 per cent in 2009, reaching a record $317,900. This is an upward revision from the 1.5 per cent gain in CREA's previous forecast, and reflects the high degree to which the national average price was skewed downward last year by a significant decline in activity in Canada's priciest markets, and then upward by the rebound in activity.
Alberta remains the only province with a forecast decline in average price in 2009 (-3.0 per cent). Average prices are forecast to rise in all other provinces, with gains ranging from a low of 1.5 per cent in British Columbia to 13.1 per cent in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Average prices are forecast to climb a further 4.7 per cent in 2010. Much of the annual increase reflects weakness in the average price in first quarter of 2009, which is not expected to repeat in 2010. Average sale prices are forecast to rise in every province in 2010.
The price trend is similar but less dramatic for the weighted national MLS average price, which compensates for changes in provincial sales activity by taking into account provincial proportions of privately owned housing stock. The weighted national MLS average price is forecast to climb 2.9 per cent in 2009, with a further 4.0 per cent rise in 2010. CREA previously forecast that the weighted national average price for MLS homes sales would hold steady from 2009 to 2010.
"Pent-up demand built in late 2008 and early 2009, as many buyers moved to the sidelines pending an improved economic outlook," said CREA President Dale Ripplinger. "With the economic outlook having improved since then, the release of that pent-up demand will boost activity over the rest of the year and in 2010."
"Significant weakness in activity and average prices seen in late 2008 and earlier this year is not expected to repeat in 2010, so 2010 will look a lot better by comparison," said CREA Chief Economist Gregory Klump. "The raised outlook for MLS sales activity in 2010 still puts annual activity below the pre-recession peak recorded for 2007."

Blame it on city hall, the weather, the Mike Holmes effect and maybe our own lack of care.
Spurred by rising costs for water damage as pipes burst and sewers back up into elaborately renovated and equipped basements, homeowners' insurance premiums have soared this year - and the situation is only going to get worse, insurers warn.
The average cost of water damage claims in some parts of Ontario, such as Hamilton, Peterborough, Ottawa and parts of Toronto, has about quintupled in five years, according to one insurer.
Ontario residents were already encountering double-digit increases in auto insurance. But they have also seen the price of home insurance rise an average of 13.1 % during the year ended in September, according to Statistics Canada.
The increase was double the national average, yet masks a wide variance from one city and postal code to another.
This year, that rising trend in losses has combined with insurers' drives to bolster profits and the price of some homeowners' policies has gone through the roof.
Insurers are bracing for more stormy weather after tallying a near billion-dollar summer for storm losses, their worst season since the 1998 ice storm that hit Quebec and parts of Ontario.
Karen Ritchie, vice-president of Baird MacGregor Insurance Brokers LP in Toronto, says some clients in certain postal codes have seen increases of 40%.
The largest increases result from a combination of higher rates, penalties to consumers who have poor credit ratings and revisions to the estimated cost of repairing or replacing damaged homes in what is still a tight market for skilled construction trades.
"In 2009 almost 41 per cent of the claims reported are water-related and this represents 39% of the claims dollars that have been paid as of the end of September,"
The cost of the average water-related claim at Co-operators is now almost $12,000 - up 25% since 2007, said Bomben.
When consumers hit by the larger increases go shopping for cheaper rates, they face a world of complexity. Home policies differ significantly from company to company, and limits on coverage for sewer backup claims are becoming widespread, with limits as low as $5,000 at TD Meloche Monnex, said broker Jeff Powell, of Powell Insurance Brokers Ltd. in Oakville.
Martin Beaulieu, senior vice-president at the country's leading home insurer, Intact Financial Corp., says his company's home insurance premium rates were increased more than 10 per cent this year and last, and will rise as much again next year. Some homeowners will see a further 25 per cent increase.
"I can certainly understand this is not a desirable situation," says Beaulieu, whose company reported Tuesday it paid out $1.29 for every dollar of premium it raised from homeowners during its summer financial quarter.
That in itself would not result in a spike in premium rates, he adds. But the trend in water losses will make it important to find solutions as a society, by replacing old drainage systems and educating homeowners about preventive measures.
While rainfall has not increased on average, it seems to insurers the intensity and frequency has. Meanwhile, storm drains and sewer systems have been stretched to the limit by poorly planned urban sprawl.
Just as important, though, is the damage caused by clean city water when it is released from pipes, appliance hoses and water heaters that are past their useful lifespan, says Beaulieu.
The items being damaged have dramatically changed, as well.
"Ten or 20 years ago you would find hockey gear and a bike in the basement," he says. "Now there are quality finishes and expensive home entertainment systems."
Powell says homeowners are very much aware of the health risks of mould after water soaks drywall, carpets and insulation.
In addition to regulations regarding mould, there are warnings on television about the health effects. This helps raise expectations when insurers are paying for the cleanup.
Article by: James Daw BUSINESS COLUMNIST

Article By: Michel Chevalier
It's been said many times...many ways...a failure to plan is a plan for F-. Yes, another one of those nasty F words. A very small number of us do any kind of consistent financial planning and even fewer among us do any tax planning. Most of us, when asked what we do to minimize taxes respond with, "Oh, yeah! Tax planning. I have an RRSP."
There is quite a bit more you can do if you take the time to educate yourself and then actually carry through and implement some of what you learn. I have made additional information available on my website at www.taxaction.net.
Consumer debt is growing; bankruptcies have soared 54.3 per cent over the past year with those in the know saying this would have happened with or without the recession; and, most disturbing, is the fact that debt is becoming a serious problem among young Canadians, with a growing number approaching Credit Canada with levels of student debt and credit card debt that are out of control.
I think we are a nation of financial illiterates and that we should long since have put in place some basic levels of financial education in our schools. The good news is that something is being done. The federal government has set up the Task Force on Financial Literacy...so the problem at least has received official recognition. Federal task forces, however, are notoriously ponderous and often don't amount to much.
Okay, let's turn to what tax planning you can do at the end of the year. If you are one of the many who wait until April 30th, I would liken this to you having ‘hit the wall.' In terms of tax planning...it ain't, and you are more than likely letting Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) get away with more of your money than is necessary. At the other end of the spectrum, most of us don't need to tax plan weekly or monthly. Quarterly is pretty good. There is still time to have a significant impact on your tax situation over the course of the last two months of the year. I have prepared a list, by no means exhaustive, of some of the things to keep in mind that might make sense for you. Personal tax planning - some things to consider:
* Capital gains - Depending on your situation, you should look to see if you should be doing some ‘tax-loss' selling.
* Carrying/interest charges - If you have borrowed to invest, then the carrying charges are deductible; borrowed funds must have been used to acquire income-generating assets.
* Medical expenses - Expenses paid in any 12-month period ending in the calendar year generate tax credits to the extent they exceed the lesser of three per cent of your net income, or $1,962.
* Donations and charitable gifts - Generally, you can claim up to a limit of 75 per cent of your net income. Donations must be made by December 31.
* Political donations - Federally, the maximum credit is $650, which is reached at $1,275 of contributions.
* Moving expenses - Are deductible from employment income earned at the new work location.
* Child care expenses - Are deductible by the spouse with the lower income regardless of who paid them.
* Tuition fees - Only post-secondary tuition fees are deductible and only by the student; if the student cannot use full amount, they can be carried forward or transferred to a spouse, parent or grandparent.
* Interest on student loans - Are deductible but only by the student.
* Tax-free savings account - If you haven't yet, you should give serious consideration to opening a TFSA account.
* RRSP contribution - The maximum contribution is $21,000 for 2009; deadline is March 1, 2010.

Here are some tax planning considerations for the self-employed and small business owners:
* Medical benefit plan premiums - Are deductible for self-employed people and owners of incorporated small businesses.
* Income splitting - You can deduct reasonable payments for services rendered by family members with an emphasis on reasonable. Investment income can be split but this can be complicated and calls for careful planning and guidance.

* Purchase of capital assets - If you need to purchase a capital asset such as a vehicle or a computer for your business, buy it before year-end to take advantage of the tax deduction.
Again, this is a basic list and some of the items mentioned have complexities, so get advice on how they best fit into your financial life.

By the way, I am never too busy for your referrals! Don't forget Sally's local events on my website: to see a list of my favorite things to do in Niagara over the holidays. www.SallyDollar.com Coming up ..... Niagara on the Lake Santa Claus Parade....

All offices are independently owned and operated, except those offices marked as "Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd." Not intended to solicit currently listed properties. The above information is from sources believed reliable, however, no responsibility is assumed for the accuracy of this information.

Royal LePage Niagara Home Connection Fall Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:46:53 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	Stable National Real Estate Market Forecast to Endure
·	Fabulous Fall: Gardening Tips
·	Get Everything at Your Fingertips with Home Automation

What a BEAUTIFUL Fall it has been so far!

This is my favorite time of year to be in Niagara! The leaves are turning brilliant colours of red, yellow and brown on the escarpment - lots of fabulous Fall craft shows throughout the Region and Grapes, Pumpkins and Apples are ready! I am suprised to let you know that there are still plenty of homes selling.....the buyers know it is a good time to buy & the sellers are realizing that they have to price their home where the market value is. Thanks for your referrals over the past 2 months - we have managed a few great relocations to our area - welcome all!


Featured Listing
Southgate Condo Now $239,900 Wonderful executive 2 bedroom condo in south St. Catharines with a gorgeous 10th floor view of the escarpment and the changing leaves. 2 bathrooms, a den and a balcony. Condo fees include everything expect telephone and internet. View the virtual tour at: http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=3651510

Stable National Real Estate Market Forecast to Endure

Canada's resale housing market recovered lost ground in the second quarter and is poised to stabilize for the remainder of 2009, after a very slow start to the year, according to the recently released Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast and House Price Survey. As the economy begins to stabilize and consumer confidence improves, house prices are expected to appreciate slightly in much of eastern and central Canada. Greater than national average price declines are predicted for the western cities that saw the greatest price inflation earlier in the decade, including Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver.

"Given the grim shape that Canada's real estate market was in this past winter, the turnaround we have witnessed in the second quarter is really quite remarkable. We believe this improvement represents a sustainable change across the country. While seasonally weaker conditions are to be expected in the fall, the plucky Canadian real estate market is stabilizing and a healthy level of activity is forecast for the second half of 2009," said Phil Soper, president and chief executive officer, Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

During the second quarter, average national prices remain slightly behind those posted during the same period in 2008. Of the housing types surveyed, the price of detached bungalows declined to $327,964 (-3.5 per cent), two storey property prices decreased to $392,378 (-3.7 per cent), and standard condominiums price points fell slightly to $236,612 (-4.0 per cent), year-over-year.

Soper observed, "With our industry's busiest quarter behind us, we feel comfortable revising our 2009 forecast to the positive. When the anticipated market decline struck last winter, it was with greater speed and intensity than predicted, but the strength of the rebound was equally surprising. If general economic conditions continue to improve, as we expect they will, 2009 will be characterized as a period of moderate housing market correction after several years of above-average price growth."

"Looking ahead to the second half of 2009, year-over-year price comparisons will likely appear increasingly more favourable. It is important to remember that the baseline for the latter half of 2008 was unusually low, particularly in the fourth quarter when the full impact of the global financial crisis was felt. Our expectation is that most Canadian regions will experience stable housing prices through into the spring of 2010," concluded Soper.

For more information, please see the Royal LePage Survey of Canadian House Prices at www.royallepage.ca.

If you are wondering what your home is worth in today's market, please contact me and let me put my expertise to work for you!

Survey of Canadian Average House Prices in the Second Quarter 2009

Average house prices are based on an average of all sub-markets examined in the area, except for the smaller markets of Charlottetown, Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John and Victoria.

Fabulous Fall: Gardening Tips

Fall is a feast for the eyes with red, gold and bronze hues. While enjoying the trees in their tawny splendour, consider these simple tips to prepare your garden for the upcoming winter.

Grass
Although a carpet of leaves is part of autumn's glory, don't let them sit too long. Rake them frequently as grass needs oxygen and sunlight for proper growth. This is also the time to seed your grass for a thick lush lawn in the spring, and to keep pesky weeds out.

Leaves
Put leaves to work! Small leaves from birch, beech and silver maple trees (or shredded larger leaves) spread under shrubs and over soil will degrade into mineral nutrients and worms will turn them into fertilizer.

Pruning/Re-arranging Plants
Pruning in the fall is important. With leaves cleared you have a better view of your plants. Cut off dead and diseased branches. Remove diseased leaves from under roses (blackspot) and dispose of in the garbage (not your compost heap) or they'll re-infect plants the following spring. If you decide to re-arrange plants or shrubs, move them while the earth is still warm so that the roots can take hold. Protect delicate shrubs with burlap.

Bulbs
If you want to see crocus, tulips and daffodils peeping through the soil in spring, now is the time to start planting. Buy the very best quality bulbs and you will be rewarded with showy blooms in the spring. Check with a local horticulturalist for native bulb options and ideal planting conditions.

Container Gardening
Fill your balcony or patio containers with fall flowers. Picture a pot filled with Vanilla Butterfly (marguerite daisy), with a background of Orange Sedge - this olive green grass turns orange in cool weather, finally fading to bronze. Want an instant conversation piece? Plant ornamental Kale (winter cabbage) in your container: its quirky look is an attention-getter.

Every season has its beauty, but a Canadian fall is spectacular - enjoy!

Get Everything at Your Fingertips with Home Automation

In these busy and often stressful times, having a little help around the house can be handy. Home Automation (HA) tools are a great way to make things run more quickly and efficiently around the house. Here's a list of just some of the great HA tools you can use to make your life a little easier.

Plug and Use Home Automation
Just plug a wire-free HA module into an electrical outlet and you have instant control of lighting, heating, and curtains. A wire-free HA module is a great tool when you are away and want your home to look occupied.

Biometric Fingerprint Locks
Always losing your keys? If you've ever had to go to the expense and bother of changing all your locks, you may want to consider one of the new biometric locks. This is a fingerprint recognition door lock that makes house keys obsolete. Once you scan your fingerprint into memory it will be recognized on the sensor. Up to 99 fingerprints can be stored to ensure frequent visitors (such as family members and cleaners) can gain access to your home. No more having to leave keys under the doormat.

LCD Appliance Wattage Calculator
Ever wonder which of your appliances uses the most energy? Invest in one of these inexpensive plug-in devices and it will accurately measure energy consumption and calculate the cost. It even has an overload warning display - a great safety feature.

Automatic Plant Watering System
What happens to your carefully tended houseplants when you go on vacation - do they wither without you, or waste away due to over-zealous watering by a friend or relative? Consider buying a compact plug-in system that waters up to 14 different indoor plants grouped around the container for up to two weeks. Just set it and forget it until you return.

By the way, I am never too busy for your referrals! Don't forget Sally's local events on my website: www.SallyDollar.com to see a list of my favorite things to do in Niagara. Coming up ..... Doors Open Niagara - Free admission to Niagara, ON and Niagara, NY historic buildings.


All offices are independently owned and operated, except those offices marked as "Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd." Not intended to solicit currently listed properties. The above information is from sources believed reliable, however, no responsibility is assumed for the accuracy of this information. ©2009 Brookfield Real Estate Services Fund.

Royal LePage Niagara E-Newsletter August 2009 Sally Dollar

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:22:59 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
Visit: www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	Government Incentives for Buyers
·	Home Staging: A Few Hundred Dollars can Get You a Return of Thousands
·	Its here!!!!! We have Go Transit and Go Train to Niagara Now!!!!

Whats with all the rain????

Niagara's real estate market has hit mid summer and is continuing its seasonal adjusting. We have slowed a bit, and prices have been adjusted & have lowered slightly, but property is still selling, if priced right. Lots of people are still looking to buy, but are putting more & more research in to the process than ever. I have lots of good tips & money saving ideas on my website. Its been quite a summer so far with lots of things to do. That which is s a small reminder to check out "Sally's Things to do in Niagara" on my website - its updated monthly. TTYL!


Featured Listing
	Executive Condo Near The Pen Centre Executive 2 Bedroom corner unit in Southgate Condominium near Pen Centre and Niagara escarpment in South St. Catharines. Just over 1400 sq.ft. of living space including in-suite laundry & balcony. Fabulous location in a beautifully well-kept building. $249,900.00 View virtual tour @ www.SallyDollar.com

Government Incentives for Buyers

Here are just a few of the programs that are available to make home buying easier in these economic times. It is also part of the services that I provide as a BUYER REPRESENTATIVE when you hire me. I will sit down and go through the process step by step with you and show you how you can save money and apply for rebates. Even if you are not ready to purchase a home just yet, its a good time to swtart your research. Just give me a call or send me an email. I would be happy to hear from you.

Canada's Government introduces financial help for first-time home buyers.
Canada's Economic Action Plan supports the Canadian home construction and real estate industries, with a First-Time Home Buyers' tax credit that will provide up to $750 in tax relief to first-time home buyers; and an increase in the amount that they can withdraw from an RRSP to purchase a home from $20,000 to $25,000. For more information see: www.actionplan.gc.ca

First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit (HBTC): To assist first-time home buyers with the costs related to the
purchase of a home, Budget 2009 proposes to introduce a First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit. A 15-per-cent credit will be applied to a $5,000 amount, and will provide up to $750 in tax relief to reduce the costs associated with first home purchases completed after January 27, 2009. For more information see: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/bdgt/2009/fqhbtc-eng.html

First Time Home Buyers' Program - Property Transfer Tax Act: It is important that the client understand all requirements of the FTHB program, including changes announced in Budget 2008 that became effective February 20, 2008. Please see: http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/documents_library/bulletins/PTT_004.pdf to find out more.

The Home Buyers' Plan allows eligible individuals to withdraw up to $20,000 tax free from their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to purchase or build a qualifying home. For more information see: http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/goc/home_buyers_plan.shtml

FOR EVERYONE:

Home Renovation Tax Credit: Home Renovation Tax Credit (HRTC) will provide a temporary 15 per cent income tax credit on eligible home renovation expenditures for work performed, or goods acquired, after January 27, 2009 and before February 1, 2010. The credit may be claimed for the 2009 taxation year on the portion of eligible expenditures exceeding $1,000, but not more than $10,000, and will provide up to $1,350 in tax relief. For more information see: http://jasminahomes.ca/home-renovation-tax-credit-home-buyers-plan-eco-energy-grants-in-canada#section4

Home Staging: A Few Hundred Dollars can Get You a Return of Thousands

Selling your home, or just thinking of it? Here are some tips to help you get it ready and sell yours for more than your next door neighbor's, and faster!

Most buyers will know within 15 SECONDS after crossing the threshold if they want your home. But first, you need to attract them inside!

11 home staging steps to take to sell your home for top dollar:

1. Start at the street. The buyer's first glimpse of your home must entice them inside. Design Psychology goes further than mere curb appeal. Here are some easy additions you can make to help your home outshine the competition:

Add a couple of BIG plants, either in hanging baskets or pots, to the porch, which will lead buyers' eyes to the entrance.

The first color our eyes process is yellow, so place yellow flowers near the front door.

Plant white flowering annuals, since they look clean and show up better at night.

2. Get rid of brown or dead leaves and bare spots in the yard. Add mulch to cover bare dirt near the house. Bright flowers hold the eye and "fill" empty areas, but you don't need to add plants to every space. Just make sure that everything looks neat.

3. Paint your front door a happy color. Yellow-gold (amber), red
(blue-based), sage, apple, or forest green, depending on the other colors of your home, will attract the eye and create happy feelings. Buyers won't notice the Color Psychology you're employing, but they'll love the result.

4. Once buyers step inside the front door, they usually make their minds up within 15 SECONDS, so first impressions are vitally important. Focus your attention on the first wall buyers will see, and then hang a mirror on that wall large enough to reflect the buyer's image. It will psychologically reinforce the buyer's presence in the home when they see themselves in the mirror, causing them to imagine living in your home.

5. Go beyond just clearing clutter, and remove furnishings that don't add to the setting. Also clear bathroom and kitchen countertops. Under-furnished homes let the buyer's imagination fill rooms with their own belongings. Once they visualize their favorite chair in a particular spot, you have a sale.

6. Pack away your personal photographs, trophies, diplomas, and small accessories and stack them neatly in the garage or a separate storage space. That will also protect you from having strangers view your personal life.

7. If your home looks too bare, replace your personal treasures with house plants or cuttings from the garden. Be creative.
Use tree branches and fresh flowers to bring nature indoors.
Fill vases and glass jars with fresh cuttings and set them in baskets. Add green house plants in winter, spring, and fall.

During hot selling seasons, use green, silver and gray foliage to help keep your home visually cool.

8. Lighting affects your buyers' emotions and is a crucial design
element for happiness, so turn on the lights when showing your
home. Day-like light bulbs enhance happiness. Amber and pink light bulbs warm, while blue light cools.

9. Air the house out. You get used to odors, but buyers shouldn't
smell anything other than natural pleasing scents like wood burning in the fireplace or fresh lemon in the summer. Cut up a grapefruit and run sections through the garbage disposal. It's both refreshing and clean smelling.

10. Buyers like temperatures around 70 degrees in the winter and 67 degrees in the summer, so turn up the thermostat in the winter and turn it down in the summer.

11. Park your car out of the way and encourage buyers to park in a space where their car won't block the view from the inside.

Remember, you've only got 15 seconds to sell your home, but by using Design Psychology techniques, you can convert lookers into buyers and get top dollar for your home.

NOTE: from Sally

Especially in this slower market, where houses are sitting longer and getting less money...... why would you NOT have your home staged? A few hundred dollars can turn in to thousands of dollars and a faster sale. Our home stagers can show you what work needs to be done so you can do it OR they also have access to professionals to do it for you if you would rather not or are not handy. I have access to professional home stagers who can help you get your home sold for the maximum price in the least amount of time. Just ask.....

Its here!!!!! We have Go Transit and Go Train to Niagara Now!!!!

This is fantastic news for travellers in our area! Even better for our GREENing and our Niagara Residents who dont like the drive on the QEW. Our seniors or non-drivers can now get around easier! Go Transit has started in St. Catharines and Niagara. A ticket from Niagara to Unionville is only $14..... check out the fares - you can even take your bike.

Visitors to Niagara Falls have another way to get there - by GO Train. For the first time, GO Transit is running seasonal weekend and holiday train service to Niagara Region.

This excursion service offers four train trips daily in each direction on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from Saturday, June 27 through to Thanksgiving weekend, Monday, October 12.

If you visit the site www.GOtransit.com you can view the prices and destinations.

NOTE: From Sally
Niagara is growing and prospering.....what a great place to live and invest! Another good reason to relocate to our area. I have spent my lifetime in Niagara enjoying all it has to offer. If you know anyone that wants to relocate back to our area or is a first timer to Niagara and wants to buy a property here - let them know that I am here to help them. I will share my knowledge of the Good, The Bad and They Ugly....of the area and make them feel welcome. I can guide them to all the professionals they need as well as the best the area has to offer. I love Niagara and it shows!!!!

Have a Happy Summer! Remember, I am Never too busy for your referrals or your questions. Also, if you need a professional (electrician, plumber, HVAC, painter, renovator), I have a great list of professional people that I use and would love to recommend. Just ask.

New Price - Executive Condo with Escarpment View

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:21:01 -0500

Details Photo Gallery South End (St. Catharines, Ontario, CA - L2T4A4) $239,900

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

"Executive Condo living" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar, Sales Rep.
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Address: 3 Towering Heights, Suite 1008 Type: Residential Style: Apartment "Executive Condominium " Bedrooms: 2 "plus den/sunroom" Bathrooms: 2 "1 Full, 1 Ensuite" Size: 1,405 sq. ft. Lot Size: n/a "Common" Year Built: 1990 "approx" Taxes: $3,784.00 (2009) Condo Fees: $609.00

Description

Executive corner unit in Southgate Condominium near Pen Centre and Niagara escarpment in South St. Catharines. 2 bedroom unit with master having walk-in closet and ensuite. Just over 1400 sq.ft. of living space including in-suite laundry and balcony. Indoor pool, outdoor patios and gardens. Convenient South end location near shopping and 406 highways. Underground parking, 2 storage lockers. Fabulous location in a beautifully well-kept building.

June 2009 Royal LePage Niagara Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:40:25 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	How do Realtors Spend Their Time?
·	Current Niagara Real Estate Stats
·	Inside-Out: Creating a Great Outdoor Room with an Interior Sensibility

Here comes summer in Niagara! What a surprise - the real estate market has taken a sharp upturn for the end of the Spring Market. I have sold five houses over the last 2 weeks alone! That means we are nearing the end of the Prime Time Sales for Sellers for 2009. If you intend on selling your home this year - your days are numbered to hit this market. Price it right and get it on the market yesterday. If you are a buyer, take advantage of the lowest variable rate mortgage in ages 2.85% oac. Have a great June, hope to see you soon!


Featured Listing
	Great North St. Catharines Neighbourhood Bring your offers! Four level backsplit. 4 bedrooms altogether (2 up + 2 down), large eat-in kitchen with island, 2 bathrooms, finished lower level. Mechanics dream garage 2 1/2 car extended with rear pull through door and sliding doors to large deck and beautiful fenced backyard. Enlarged double driveway with parking for up to 6 cars. View virtual tour at http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=2318735

How do Realtors Spend Their Time?

Most Realtors spend the majority of their time and resources prospecting for new business - things like cold-calling, door knocking, advertising, direct mail etc.

I don't do any of that. I devote myself to serving the needs of my clients before, during and after each transaction. All I ask is that while I am working for them, I would like them to refer me to people of comparable quality to themselves who are thinking about buying or selling a home and who would appreciate the same level of service I provided.

Think of it this way. If you knew someone who was thinking of buying or selling a home or had a friend who was, do you have a realtor that you would refer them to? I would like to be that realtor. Mention my name. In fact, referrals go both ways. I have established a Network of Professionals that I work with that I do the same for. If someone asks me for a great Furnace guy, I know one - If someone asks me for an Electrician, I know one - If someone asks me for a Mortgage Broker or mover, or house cleaner, roofer......it all fits in together. If you are a professional who provides a quality filled service or job for people, I would like to add you to MY network. The more honest, knowledgeable and qualified people we can gather to work together, the better it is for all of us!

You see, as long as you and my other clients keep referring me, and I can refer them to qualified professionals, I dont have to go out prospecting like everyone else, and I can do an even better job for them and their network of friends and family. You too!

I dont receive any compensation for referrals I send to a business and I dont pay for personal referrals to be sent. I expect that my clients would receive the best information, service and rates from who I send them to and THAT is what makes me happy. If they dont, then I want to hear about it and we wont refer any more people. Its a wonderful system so far. My network is fabulous!

I would love to hear from everyone who has a referral and/or is looking for a referral!

Remember how many other realtors spend most of their time.......which would you prefer.....

Thanks for your business and making my network a success.

Current Niagara Real Estate Stats

In total, there were 587 sales for May 2009 for Single Family Homes in Niagara. Houses are definately selling if they are priced correctly.

In May 2009 there were 961 residential properties for sale in Niagara.

The average regional sale price is up to $207,681 in May from $198,534 in April

St. Catharines May 2009 - Total MLS Sales 160 - Average Days on Market 52
Niagara Falls May 2009 - Total MLS Sales 87 - Average Days on Market 72
Welland May 2009 - Total MLS Sales 62 - Average Days on Market 47
Fonthill/Pelham May 2009 - Total MLS Sales 19 - Average Days on Market 38

This is the tail end of the Spring 2009 market. It is expected that things will start to slow and prices will adjust again in the second half of 2009.

I would be happy to give you a FREE no obligation market analysis of your home to let you know how it should be priced and approximately how long it would take to sell in this current market. Just give me a call.

Inside-Out: Creating a Great Outdoor Room with an Interior Sensibility

It's that time of year when Canadians retreat to the great outdoors to enjoy everyday activities like cooking, eating, and entertaining. Nowadays many homeowners are demanding more comfort and convenience when connecting with nature, and that's why "outdoor rooms" are growing in popularity. An outdoor room makes use of an exterior space such as a yard, deck, patio or balcony to extend the living area outside the home. Its purpose is to mix the luxury of indoor living with the fresh air, ambiance, and natural setting of the outdoors.
Whether you're creating a new outdoor room or simply updating an existing space, you may want to try and mirror your home's interior design, extending its comfort and aesthetic appeal to the outside. Think of the project as being two sides of the same door. A consistent design theme allows for a harmonious transition between the interior and exterior of your home and can even make your living space appear bigger. Achieve this flow by using similar colour schemes, flooring types, area rugs, and mats.
Heat, cooking facilities, seating, and lighting are just some of the indoor comforts you might consider bringing to your outdoor room. Start with a hearth product such as a fireplace, firepit or chimney as your focal point, and position your seating and cooking areas accordingly. For those who love to cook there are a variety of options available ranging from all season stainless steel BBQs to complete outdoor kitchens with dual burner cook top grills, refrigerator, and expansive counter space for food preparation. Check with your local municipality to determine what products are safe and allowable for your specific set-up.
When it comes to furniture and accessories, think outside the box. Instead of the standard table, umbrella, and patio chairs, consider things like coffee tables, settees, and sofas with stylish, stain and mildew-resistant fabrics. Many manufacturers build furniture and recreational products specifically designed to be used both inside and out, such as outdoor speakers, game tables, and cocktail bars. For added privacy and sound absorption use large potted plants, such as pyramidal cedars, to act as natural walls.
At the end of the day, your outdoor room will be more than a deck or patio; it will be a cozy, comfortable place to retreat, relax, and have fun. You'll never want to go inside again!

Remember, I am never too busy for your referrals! Call or email me any time. I am always happy to share information and real estate advice.

This property is now SOLD - Niagara Falls Ontario - 3 Bedroom Home in good family area $179,900

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 14 May 2009 08:51:17 -0500

Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage

Details Photo Gallery Mulhern (Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA - L2H2Z7) Turn-key Home

Quick Links

"Great family area" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Drive Type: Residential Style: 2 Story "Semi-Detached" Bedrooms: 3 "Large master" Bathrooms: 2 "1 Full plus 1 Half" Basement: Yes, Full "Poured Concrete" Size: 1,265 sq. ft. "plus finished basement" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 30.05ft x 109.91ft "Fenced backyard" Year Built: 1998 "approx 11 years old" Taxes: $2,118.00 (2008)

Description

Beautifully updated and modernly decorated 11 year old 2 storey semi in nice family location. Large eat-in kitchen with built-in dishwasher and patio doors to rear deck. Combined living room/dining room with newer laminate floors. Updated decor in the 2 pc powder room and 4pc main bath. Master bedroom with large walk-in closet. Basement has finished rec room with berber carpet, well organized laundry room and rough-in for 3rd bath. Completely fenced rear and side yard with wrap around newer decking to patio and storage shed. This is a turn-key, move-in condition home. Show with pride!

Virtual Tour

Schedule A Showing

Royal LePage Home Connection March 2009 E-Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 08:58:04 -0600

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com to view listings
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	Bank of Canada Lowers Rates Again!
·	NAGAB Members Leading The Way For Eco-Energy Audits
·	Are you considering selling your home this spring?

Daylight Savings Time Already???

Don't forget to turn your clocks forward this weekend. That means Spring is coming! Don't let the Press fool you into missing a bargain. If you have a steady job, good income & are looking to buy real estate, NOW is the time! Interest rates are at an ALL-time low! Houses are selling! IF realtors are telling you that they are not, they are hunting for business in all the wrong places. I just received my Presidents Gold Award from the President of Royal LePage Canada - that puts me in the top 10% of our Royal LePage Niagara Market Share for sales. Sell with me!


Featured Listing
	All the single ladies!!!!! Check this out! Calling all first time buyers! New on the market and ready to sell! This 2 bedroom 1 1/2 storey has a warm cottagey feeling with with woodwork throughout. Updated Canac kitchen, gas fireplace, rec room, sun room and large back deck, large shed with hydro! $179,900. With 5% down and an interest rate of 4.39% - payment as low as $790/m PI. View virtual tour at: http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=2235511

Bank of Canada Lowers Rates Again!

Bank of Canada lowers overnight rate target by 1/2 percentage point to 1/2 per cent - OTTAWA - The Bank of Canada today announced that it is lowering its target for the overnight rate by one-half of a percentage point to 1/2 per cent. The operating band for the overnight rate is correspondingly lowered, and the Bank Rate is now 3/4 per cent.
The outlook for the global economy has continued to deteriorate since the Bank's January Monetary Policy Report Update, with weaker-than-expected activity in major economies. The nature of the U.S. recession, with very weak auto and housing sectors, is particularly challenging for Canada.
Stabilization of the global financial system remains a precondition for the global and Canadian economic recoveries. The timely implementation of ambitious plans in some major countries to address toxic assets and recapitalize financial institutions will be critical in this regard.
National accounts data for the fourth quarter of 2008 and other indicators of aggregate demand point to a sharper decline in Canadian economic activity and a larger output gap through the first half of 2009 than projected in January. Potential delays in stabilizing the global financial system, along with larger-than-anticipated confidence and wealth effects on domestic demand, could mean that the output gap will not begin to close until early 2010. These factors imply a slightly lower profile for core inflation than was projected in the January MPRU.
The effects of the recent aggressive monetary and fiscal policy actions in Canada and other major economies will begin to be felt in the second half of this year and will build through 2010. Once the global financial system stabilizes and global growth recovers, the underlying strength of the Canadian economy and financial sector should ensure a more rapid recovery in Canada than in most other industrialized economies.
The Bank's decision to lower its policy rate by 50 basis points today brings the cumulative monetary policy easing to 400 basis points since December 2007. Consistent with returning total CPI inflation to 2 per cent, the target for the overnight rate can be expected to remain at this level or lower at least until there are clear signs that excess supply in the economy is being taken up.
Given the low level of the target for the overnight rate, the Bank is refining the approach it would take to provide additional monetary stimulus, if required, through credit and quantitative easing. In its April Monetary Policy Report, the Bank will outline a framework for the possible use of such measures.
The Bank will continue to monitor carefully economic and financial developments in judging to what extent further monetary stimulus will be required to achieve its 2 per cent inflation target over the medium term.
Information note:
The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is 21 April 2009. A full update of the Bank's outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, will be published in the Monetary Policy Report on 23 April 2009.

What this means for real estate is that ITS A GOOD TIME TO BORROW MONEY! If you were thinking of buying a home, and have a stable income, but are hesitating, because of the bad news of the economy, think again! Buy low! Low interest rates and prices comparable to 2006 home prices say, now is the time. Even if you have to sell your home and get less than you thought you may, you will make it up by buying a home that is cheaper than it was last spring/summer.
Call me - I would be happy to go over the numbers with you.

NAGAB Members Leading The Way For Eco-Energy Audits

New legislation in Ontario will likely make it mandatory for all resales to conduct a Home Energy Audit. Executive director Elden Freeman says that many NAGAB members have been providing their client home buyers and sellers with this offering for several years. For sellers and selling agents a Home Energy audit helps distinguish improved homes by pointing out conservation improvements. For buyers, an audit as soon as possible after moving provides for energy savings, government rebates and a higher sale price down the road.

Ontario Home sellers face $300 'green' audit
Ontario residents won't be able to sell their houses or condos without first getting a home energy audit which now costs about $300 under the proposed new Green Energy Act. That's one of several measures in the legislation unveiled by Energy Minister George Smitherman to boost incentives for electricity conservation and encourage renewable sources of energy.The legislation was applauded by environmentalists as ambitious, although the David Suzuki Foundation says its green intent is undermined by government plans to build a new nuclear power plant at Darlington. "Most people expect that electricity prices will be going up," Smitherman told a news conference, adding that there are incentives and government aid under the act to help homeowners improve their energy conservation efforts.While homeowners will have to get a private contractor to do an energy audit before selling, there will be no requirement to take any action the measure is simply intended to inform potential buyers what state of energy efficiency a property is in so they can take action if desired. What we've seen today is still too timid compared to what we need in Ontario," Tabuns said, citing as an example that Portugal now requires solar systems in new houses. The higher cost on electricity bills and many of the 50,000 jobs that the government claims the act will create over three years will stem initially from a $5 billion investment to improve the electricity transmission and distribution grid. Government programs, still in the developmental stages, would provide low-interest or no-interest loans to help homeowners pay for the solar, thermal, ground source heat pumps and micro-wind energy systems that will be promoted under the act, which still requires a vote of the Legislature this spring. February 24, 2009-Toronto Star

How Green Is Your Home, Realtors Ask

Every Canadian home should have a mandatory energy evaluation before it can be put on the market. "Within five years, we hope to have mandatory energy audits right across Canada on every resale home," said Elden Freeman, executive director of the non-profit National Association of Green Agents and Brokers, which has 17,000 members. Freeman has begun talks with Ontario officials in the energy and environment departments about energy evaluations as a way to reduce power consumption. "Weak houses would be forced to improve or sell for less money," he said."There's market demand right across the country.". Real-estate agents and brokers are good at "staging" a home to boost its curb appeal, but rarely mention energy-efficient windows, insulation, low-flow showerheads or high-efficiency furnaces, Freeman said.

Sally Dollar is an accredited "Green Agent" and can show you how easy it is to modify your habits and home to save you money now and in to the future. I have tools such as my "Kila-watt" Meter that I share with my clients free of charge so they can see what devices in their home are costing them to run. I have tons of easy tips and tricks including the Home Energy Conservation Kit that I am providing to my clients and friends as my way of contributing to the Eco Movement. I would love to show you how or hear any tips that you may have to save time/money/electricity/power and the environment.

Are you considering selling your home this spring?

As we head into the years busiest real estate season, in a changing and more competitive market, ensuring that your home is in its best condition will help attract maximum interest. Here are some tried and true steps to follow:
Begin the purge. Put your house on a diet. Give consideration to the appeal of a tidy and organized house and begin removing or donating both the things that clutter your home and the things you don?t want to move with you. Choose a drawer, shelf or storage bin, and begin streamlining, room-by-room, a little bit at a time. Seasonal changes can create great opportunities for sorting unworn clothes. You?ll be happy to have less on moving day and your closets will look bigger to potential buyers. A garage sale is a great way to purge before your homes first showing.
Fix whats broken or damaged. Determine what house maintenance is in order. To pass a home inspection, certain repairs may be unavoidable. Taking care of these issues now will ease your burden later and improve your sales opportunities. Simple repairs are also well worth the effort. Painting those chipped shutters and replacing the broken banister rail will provide a return in creating the right impression for a timely sale.
Think like a buyer. This can be the hardest step since we love our homes and generally assume others will too. Accept that potential buyers have different tastes and consider hiring a house staging professional or fluffer who can objectively determine what needs to change. Consider basic staging techniques such as removing clutter; putting away personal items like photos and trophies; cleaning and sanitizing inside and out, from top to bottom; freshening and neutralizing your colour scheme; making your entrance way appealing; eliminating pet and food odours; enhancing the illusion of space, beautifying your backyard.

Contact Sally Dollar, Realtor. I am your partner in selling what is likely your largest asset. I can assist you in getting your home prepared for sale and in helping you understand the current buying and selling real estate markets. As an experienced, attentive and committed Realtor, I know the market and can put the strength of an established, leading real estate brand to work for you. Its my goal to help you sell your home in the shortest amount of time possible and at the best possible price.
Alternatively, if you have a friend, relative or colleague, who is considering buying or selling, please tell them about me. Your referrals are genuinely appreciated. I will treat your friends and family with the care they deserve so you can be proud you referred me.

Oh, by the way, I am never too busy for your referrals!

January 2009 E-Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:42:03 -0600

Click here to view this email in a web browser.

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	You Now Know a Green Agent to Refer to Friends
·	Smart Mortgage Rate Strategies Can Save Homeowners Money
·	Is now a good time to sell your house? Ask Sally

Welcome 2009! Its a great life!

Thanks to all my friends and family, 2008 was my best year in real estate. It also helps that I love the business. I earned my Presidents Gold Royal Lepage Canada award level which places me 8th for agents at my office and awardees represent the top 6 to 10 percentile of their residential marketplace, based on sales earnings. I also have been upgrading my education and and now an Accredited Green Agent - see the article below. If ever you have friends/family asking who you would recommend as an agent - I hope you know I am always available for your referrals.


Featured Listing
	New Listing in Cooks Mills Hey clients and friends - this is an awesome property! Just over 1/2 an acre backing on to a stream in Cooks Mills (Welland). 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, above ground pool, attached garage, right beside a public school, municipal water in a country property! $164,900! Minutes to Welland, Niagara Falls, Port Colborne, the 406 Highway! View the virtual tour at http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=2166155

You Now Know a Green Agent to Refer to Friends

I have recently become accredited with my AGA^TM designation from the National Association for Green Agents and Brokers. It gives me recognized accreditation for my knowledge of Green real estate. I am passionate about Green!

I attended training for Home Energy Efficiency, Home hydro usage, Green heating and cooling options for the home. In addition, I have had an Eco-Energy Audit performed in my own home. I have learned hundreds of ways to save energy, save money, and help the environment - without sacrificing your lifestyle. It is my pleasure to be able to share this knowledge with my buyers and sellers, friends and family.

I can provide money saving information to all my friends, clients and family. I also have a wonderful tool to share with you. It is called a Kill a Watt! You can plug in your appliances to it and it will tell you how much energy is used and how much it costs you to use it? Did you know that if you have an electric dryer that it costs you 30-40 cents per load to dry? If you had a gas dryer is can be as little as 15 cents - even better if you hang your clothes to dry. Just to toast your morning bagel or bread, it costs 10-15 cents. Did you know that Smart Metering will be coming in to effect within the next year and we can learn to cut our energy costs by rearranging our routine a bit and using our high-drawing appliances at off-peak hours? The difference is 8.8 cents per kilowatt hour during peak times or 4 cents per kilowatt hour at off-peak times. I have the rates and times to provide to my customers so you can prepare ahead of time. Did you know there is now a solar heat that will heat your home all day for no hydro/gas charge for under $3,000? It is sold locally in Niagara. You would only need to pay gas/hydro to heat over night.

Anyway, I get silly and excited over all the changes that I have made so far and the ones that are possible for our future. I also have eco-shopping bags for my clients and many other money saving and eco-saving ideas and methods. I also have tons of CD's that contain my Energy Conservation Kit with great ideas to do your own Home Energy Audit. I can also send you the link to be able to download it and save the waste of a CD.

This is just another way I am working and learning to help my clients save money and live a better life. I would love to talk to you about it! Call me today - I love coffee!

Smart Mortgage Rate Strategies Can Save Homeowners Money

The uncertainty around interest rates has left many homeowners "scratching their heads" when it comes to taking out a mortgage. In fact, the arrival of more sophisticated and flexible mortgage products over the past few years has made the task of choosing the right mortgage even more daunting.

One of the first things I advise my clients to do is develop a mortgage strategy. That is, start with getting a clear understanding of your monthly cash flow by listing your fixed expenses such as payments on a mortgage, car, credit card and unexpected home repairs.

Next, think about how your financing needs may change of over the next five years. For example, you may be planning a family and need to assess the impact a reduction in household income will have on your ability to pay your mortgage while you or your partner is on paternal leave.

Finally, develop a plan for paying off the mortgage in the fastest and least costly way. Whatever your individual needs are, your banker will be able to assist you in developing your mortgage strategy and finding the mortgage that is right for you.

Variable rate mortgage or fixed rate mortgage?

Many of my customers ask for advice on whether to take a short-term variable rate mortgage or a long-term fixed rate. Of course there are pros and cons for both, and my advice is always based on my customers' individual needs. For example, if you're comfortable assuming some risk, you may benefit with a variable rate mortgage by taking advantage of today's low interest rate environment. However should rates rise, you may find yourself scrambling to lock into a fixed rate product. If, on the other hand, you want the security of knowing what your mortgage payment is regardless of what happens to rates, you might be better off in a fixed term product.

Recently, BMO Bank of Montreal introduced a free banking offer for mortgage customers who take out a five-year term mortgage or renew or refinance an existing mortgage for a five-year term. These customers will receive BMO's Performance Plan with unlimited transactions for free over the term - a savings of more than $800, which in some cases could translate into an extra mortgage payment.

While there are many different strategies available to home buyers today, the most important thing a borrower can do is talk to a knowledgeable mortgage expert who can help them look beyond the traditional mortgage products. After all, the world has changed since our parents and grandparents bought their first house and so have our mortgage options.

This weeks interest rates from Paul:

TERM RATE
5 YR Fixed 4.79%
3 YR VRM 4.50% Prime plus 1%, fully open term!

Paul Croteau, Mortgage Specialist, BMO Bank of Montreal
31 King Street St. Catharines, ON 905-321-3230 Phone
paul.croteau@bmo.com

Is now a good time to sell your house? Ask Sally

Thinking of selling your home but not sure if now is the "right time?" Talk to your REALTOR®, Sally Dollar for sound advice on when to sell your home in the least amount of time for the best possible price.

First Sally will help you examine your reasons for wanting to sell. The most common reasons why people decide to sell their homes include changes to their financial status, an employment transfer, a growing family or retirement. Today's low interest rates have also made it attractive for many homeowners to "move up" to a larger home.

Whatever your reason, selling a house is a complicated procedure so it's imperative to have a qualified real estate professional on your side. Because selling a home involves large sums of money and complicated legal documents, Sally's expertise can help a homeowner avoid costly mistakes.

Real estate cycles
Buying your home was probably the best investment you ever made. That's because over the long term, real estate has proven to be a sound investment while at the same time offering you and your family shelter and a feeling of pride of ownership.

However, real estate is subject to the law of supply and demand which creates cycles in the market. A shortage of homes generally means prices rise. This cycle is commonly known as a "seller's market." Alternately, a surplus of homes can result in a slow down in home sales or even a reduction in prices and is often referred to as a "buyers market." (which is what Niagara is in right now.)

One of the most important services Sally provides is market analysis. Most people don't have the time it takes to conduct the comprehensive market research required to accurately price a home. Sally Dollar can give you up-to-date information on what economic and other factors are impacting current market conditions.

Which market is best?
Obviously, you will want to sell your home quickly and for the highest possible price. In a "seller's market," you often see many buyers competing for the same house resulting in top prices -- sometimes even over the original list price. However, if you are planning to purchase another home after the sale, chances are you will be competing in the same seller's market faced with higher prices.

In a buyer's market you may find you have to wait longer to sell your home for a fair price. The upside to selling your home in a buyer's market is you'll have more selection and pricing options when you go looking for your new property. (This is the Niagara market right now)

Although the current market cycle should influence your decision to sell, remember there are trade-offs to selling in either a buyer's or seller's market. Some people are concerned that if they trade up to a larger home in a buyer's market they will lose some of their home's equity in the sale. But, while you may sell your home at a "discount," it's likely you will purchase your larger home at an even greater discount. The advantage is you then own a larger asset with even greater potential for appreciation.

Seasonality
In Niagara, changing seasons and the weather can affect buyer demand. For example, fewer buyers may be out looking at homes during the cold and snowy winter months, but as a seller you will be competing with fewer homes on the market. Spring tends to be an attractive time for real estate sales as gardens start to look nice again and people come out of hibernation. Buyers with school-aged children like to purchase in the spring so they can move in over the summer. However, homes sell throughout the year so think of the season as only one factor in deciding when to sell your home.

There are many important issues that come into play when deciding to sell your home. Sally can help you to determine if now is the best time for you. Give me a call or send me an email - I would love to answer your questions and educate you on our changing market here in Niagara.

By the way, I am never to busy for your referrals - I treat your confidence in me with the same honesty and caring I would treat you with.

SOLD! Cooks Mills, Welland, Ontario Just over 1/2 Acre

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 09:36:02 -0600

Cooks Mills (Welland, Ontario, CA) MLS® Just over 1/2 an acre

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

Request More Info

Mortgage Calculator

Email Listing

Schedule A Showing

"Country Living, City water" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Type: Residential Style: 1 1/2 Story Bedrooms: 3 "Main floor bedroom" Bathrooms: 2 "1 full and 1 half" Garage: Single, Attached Basement: Yes, Full "Unfinished" Size: 1,293 sq. ft. "plus basement" Lot Type: Irregular Lot Size: 0.59 acres 80ft x 320ft "backing on to stream" Taxes: $2,460.00 (2008)

Description

The Hamlet of Cooks Mills 1 1/2 Storey 3 bedroom home. Country style living with city water, on just over 1/2 acre backing on to stream. Large eat-in kitchen with tons of storage, pantry and patio doors to backyard. Main floor bedroom. Good size 2 bedroom upstairs along with 2 pc powder room. Full unfinished basement. Updates include septic '03, roof '03, furnace '02, vinyl windows 03. Single attached garage. Above ground pool. Minutes to Welland, Niagara Falls or Port Colborne. Beside Crowland Public School.

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Inc, Brokerage - October 2008 E-newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:27:40 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
Visit www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	BANK OF CANADA INTEREST RATES + NIAGARA MARKET STATS
·	8 ENERGY SAVING RENOVATIONS FOR YOUR HOME
·	SALLY'S THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Hello friends and family! Happy Thanksgiving! I have been hard at work adding to and updating my website and starting the process of being certified with my National Association of Green Agents and Brokers designation. It will allow me to share with you all sorts of "green initiatives" to get your home's energy efficiency to peak numbers and raise your property value and save some money all at the same time. What an added benefit to YOUR real estate needs! I am happy to come to your home and advise you.
PS. Dont forget to VOTE Tuesday the 14th!


Featured Listing
	Come find out what Chippawa has to offer! Short distance to the marina or golf. Inviting warmth and tons of closets. Eat-in kitchen w/centre island, laminate floors, under counter lighting, built-ins. Living and dining room with vaulted ceiling. 3 bedrooms. Master suite w/walk-in closet & 4 pc ensuite w/corner tub & separate shower. Large backyard with mature tree-line view for privacy. View the Virtual tour. http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=2009118

BANK OF CANADA INTEREST RATES + NIAGARA MARKET STATS

The Bank of Canada, along with the U.S. Federal Reserve, European Central Bank and others, announced an interest rate cut of 50 basis points Oct 8th. The Bank of Canada's benchmark lending rate now stands at 2.5 per cent.

The U.S. Fed cut its benchmark rate by a half point to 1.5 per cent, while the European Central Bank and central banks in the U.K., Sweden and Switzerland are also reducing rates.

The Bank of Canada said deteriorating credit conditions, weaker demand and the drop in commodity prices will "significantly" ease inflation pressures in Canada. "The intensification of the global financial crisis is having a marked impact on all countries," the bank said in a statement, saying credit conditions in Canada have tightened significantly in recent weeks, and that slowing consumer spending and business investment will pull economic growth lower.

The Bank of Canada's governors are scheduled to release their next interest rate decision on Oct. 21

Niagara Conditions:

- Resale House Prices are up 3.1% over 2007 in Niagara

- Average sale price in Niagara Region is $212,815 in 2008 compared with $206,437 for 2007

- Unit Sales are down 8% across Niagara Region from 2007

- Average House Prices Expected to increase 3.5% nationally by years end

- Royal LePage Niagara outpaced the competition in 2008 with a 33% market share and average sale price of $219,000.

From CMHC
Preliminary housing starts data for September 2008 released today by
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) for the St. Catharines-Niagara Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) report 19 per cent growth from the same month last year to 136 units.
Total starts in the St. Catharines-Niagara CMA for January-September 2008 grew nine per cent over the same period a year ago. Starts of single-detached homes on a year-to-date basis declined 14 per cent to 505 homes, but the drop was more than offset by strong expansion in starts of row houses (63 per cent) and apartments (87 per cent).
"Land supply constraints and demographic trends both support the construction of higher-density homes, adding more row houses and apartment units into the housing stock," said Ashot Karapetyan, Market
Analyst with CMHC. "The current trend to more starts of apartments and townhouses and fewer single detached home starts is expected to continue."

8 ENERGY SAVING RENOVATIONS FOR YOUR HOME

As I mentioned earlier in the newsletter, I am continuing my education with "Green Real Estate" courses from National Association of Green Agents and Brokers (NAGAB). With an eye towards the future, I plan to spread the word of environmentally concious living, and plan to show my friends, family and clients how easy it can be to moderately adjust our lifestyle and homes to save money and create a smaller carbon footprint. The smallest changes can make the biggest differences.

Save money, energy and the environment with tips from CMHC, Canada's national housing agency.

Improving the energy efficiency of your home can do more than reduce energy consumption and help protect the environment. It can also help you reduce drafts and noise, fix moisture and condensation problems, improve your indoor air quality and comfort level - and help save your family money year round.
Step number 1 is to have an Eco-energy audit. There are MANY rebates and incentives right now to help you afford to upgrade your homes' energy efficiency. I had my home energy audited this summer and am receiving over $2,000 back from the programs. Call or email me (905) 937-6000 or dollar@royallepage.ca for an Eco-energy package with contact information and a list of rebates available.

Regardless of where you live or the type of house your family calls home, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has a number of energy-saving tips you can use to help you save money, save the environment - and reduce your energy use by as much as 47 percent:

· 1. Draftproof everywhere, including foundation walls, attic hatches and doors, around window and door frames, at ceiling penetrations, around light fixtures and wiring, and around service penetrations through exterior walls. Plus, seal the joint between the window frame and wall, and keep weather stripping and storm windows in good repair.

· 2. Consider upgrading to more energy-efficient windows to prevent heat loss, greatly improve comfort levels and reduce maintenance needs.

· 3. Consider upgrading your furnace or boiler to a new high-efficiency unit.

· 4. Cover hot water pipes within three meters (nine feet) of the hot water tank with pipe insulation, and if possible, insulate all accessible hot water pipes.

· 5. Install a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature at night and during the day when your home is unoccupied.

· 6. Replace and recycle older refrigerators, freezers, electric ranges and dishwashers with newer Energy Star rated models, and switch to energy-saving fluorescent, compact fluorescent and task lighting where possible.

· 7. If you own a fireplace or woodstove, replace any leaky dampers and repair chimney flues. Also consider switching to more energy-efficient options such as an electric fireplace insert, EPA-rated insert unit or direct-vent natural gas fireplace insert.

• 8. Save energy and water by installing low-flush or dual-flush toilets, low flow faucets and shower heads, and front-loading clothes washers that reduce water heating loads, water consumption and clothes dryer operation.CMHC also offers a new series of fact sheets, Renovating for Energy Efficiency which describe ways of saving energy in houses of all types and ages, including pre-World War II houses, post-War 1 1/2-storey homes, post-60s two-storey homes, 1960s or 70s one-storey homes, split-level and split entry homes, mobile homes, duplexes and triplexes, row houses, homes with walkout basements and common additions.

SALLY'S THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA

This is a new thing for my website, but instead of typing out the Things to Do each month, and grabbing them from all sorts of sites to send in a monthly newsletter that will likely be deleted in the next day or so, I have created a new web page with a calendar of Niagara events that will be updated and kept on my site continuously. So if you have a weekend with no plans, check out the site! REMINDER: Please vote on Tuesday!!!! I appreciate any comments or feedback on events that I recommended or that you attended. Dont over do the turkey this weekend! See you soon!

http://www.sallydollar.com/Local_Niagara_Events/page_1371951.html

I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because Im experienced, because Im professional & because I care. Don't forget to share my experience and tools with your friends & family - I would love to help them through the experience, step by step.

Niagara Falls/Chippawa 2 Year Old 2 Storey - SOLD!!!!

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:20:44 -0500

Details Photo Gallery Chippawa (Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA - L2G7Y1) MLS® Fantastic Price!

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

Schedule A Showing

Two Years Old - Ready to Move In!

" More Photos » Satellite View »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Address: Weinbrenner Road Type: Residential Style: 2 Story Bedrooms: 3 "above grade" Bathrooms: 3 "Main, Ensuite + 1/2 bath" Garage: Double, Attached "Clean and painted" Basement: Yes, Full "Unfinished" Size: 2,063 sq. ft. "plus full basement" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 60ft x 120ft "Backing on to Mature Trees" Year Built: 2006 "New Street" Taxes: $4,279.42 (2008)

Description

Come and find out what Chippewa has to offer! Short distance to the marina or golf. Move right in to this beauty. Large principal rooms, inviting warmth, tons of closets. Eat-in kitchen with centre island, laminate floors, under counter lighting, built-in dishwasher & microwave/range, bonus extra large single sink. Combined living/dining room with large bright windows. Main floor laundry/mud room + 2pc bath. 3 Good sized bedrooms up. Master suite w/walk-in closet and 4 pc ensuite with corner tub and separate shower. Full, ready to finish basement. Large backyard with mature tree-line view for privacy. View the Virtual tour for more information.

Sally's August Real Estate Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:38:19 -0500

Click here to view this email in a web browser.

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	New MLS® residential listings reach new levels in first half of 2008
·	Ductless Air Conditioning
·	Sallys "Things to Do in Niagara" August Edition

Enjoying the Summer!!!!

Hi friends, clients and family! It has been a very busy summer. I just moved in to my own new home (interesting experience being on the other side...lol). Selling homes, travelling soccer & unpacking have occupied most of my time. I have included Niagara Events again - this is what I have received the most feedback on in my newsletter. The market is slowing as we approach vacation time & summer heat, but sales are still happening - they are just taking longer & prices are adjusting accordingly. Call me if you need any real estate advice - I am happy to help!


Featured Listing
	Calling all First Time Buyers News Flash!!! If you are looking to buy your first home with 100% financing and zero percent down ... and wanted to amortize your mortgage over 40 years so you have low monthly payments.... you need to purchase before October 1st. That is when they will be revoking this offer. This home would be $903.59 per month with a 25 year amortization and with 40 year it would be $781.50 per month at 6%. View the virtual tour www.SallyDollar.com

New MLS® residential listings reach new levels in first half of 2008

In Canada's major markets reached record levels in the first half of 2008, while sales activity retreated from the record levels reported in 2007, according to MLS® statistics released by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).
New MLS® residential listings in Canada's major markets in the first 6 months of 2008, up 8.1 % from the previous record set in the same period last year.
More new properties were listed in April, May, June this year than in any other month on record. This pushed seasonally adjusted new listings to new levels in the 2nd quarter of 2008, up 7.5% from levels the previous quarter. New listings reached record or near-record levels in Toronto.
By contrast to rising new listings, sales activity in the first half of 2008 was down compared to the same period of 2007, which was a record-setting year. Transactions declined by 13.3 per cent year over year to 169,265 units in the first half of 2008.
Over the past six months, easing sales activity & a surge in new listings caused the resale housing market to become considerably more balanced in many major housing markets.
"The Canadian real estate market, while cooling, is still much different than the U.S. market with its record low number of foreclosures or defaults" says the President of CREA, Calvin Lindberg. In the US home prices dropped by 14.1% in the 1st quarter of the year, according to the Case Shiller national home price index.
"Finance Canada has moved to clamp down on those buyers who may be heavily leveraged in their bid to become home owners" the CREA President added, "and this is into effect in October."

The major market residential MLS® average price set new records for the first half of 2008, as well as for the 2nd quarter of the year. In the first half of 2008, the MLS® residential average price rose 3.2 per cent year-over-year. On a quarterly basis, the average price in Canada's major markets was $343,235 in the second quarter, up 1.4 per cent from the second quarter of 2007.
However, in June the major market MLS® residential average price edged down 0.4 per cent year over year to $341,096.
"The resale housing market is more balanced than it was last year in all major urban centres," said CREA Chief Economist Gregory Klump. "The frenzied pace for sales activity last year has faded, with buyers now better able to shop around before making an offer. Price increases are expected to be modest in the second half of 2008, as sales continue easing and new listings remain high."(CREA 15/07/2008)

Bank of Canada holds interest rates steady
The Bank of Canada held its benchmark overnight lending rate steady at 3% at it's setting on July 15th. The trend-setting Bank rate, which is set 0.25 percentage points above the overnight lending rate, remains at 3.25 per cent.
The Bank's decision to hold interest rates steady aims to boost its inflation fighting credentials. Financial markets widely expected the Bank rate to be put on hold despite the lackluster outlook for Canadian economic growth.

When the Bank left interest rates unchanged on July 15th, the advertised 5 year conventional mortgage rate stood at 7.15%. This is less than 1/10th of a percentage point below where it stood a year ago. Competition among mortgage lenders remains stiff, but discounts off advertised mortgage interest rates have shrunk.

The number of new listings of homes for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) of real estate boards in Canada set a second consecutive monthly record in May 2008, according to statistics released by The Canadian Real Estate Association. New MLS® residential listings rose 1.8% on a seasonally adjusted month-over-month basis to 78,878 units in May 2008.

Record numbers of new listings are creating more balanced resale housing markets in many centers. More balanced housing markets are causing price gains to shrink. The national MLS® residential average price rose 1.8 per cent year-over-year in May 2008. This is the highest level ever for average price, but the smallest year-over-year price increase in seven years.

"Over the long haul what's good for consumers is a strong, stable and balanced market," says the President of CREA, Cal Lindberg. "Buyers get to take time to assess their options, and sellers must find the right marketing plan for their property. A REALTOR® provides the expertise to help both buyers and sellers with those issues." (CREA 26/07/2008)

Ductless Air Conditioning

Lots of my clients have hot water gas heating with rads - here is information you may be interested in to keep you cool this summer. Sally

Ductless air conditioners and heat pumps are gaining in popularity as a means of providing cooling for a house. These systems function much the same as any other air conditioning or heat pump, except that they do not require ductwork to distribute air throughout the house. They are particularly practical for existing homes where there is no ductwork already installed for heating or cooling purposes.

This feature can produce substantial energy savings over a ducted air distribution system as there is no opportunity for the loss of conditioned air from the ductwork running through attics, basements or crawls spaces. Duct losses can account for more than 25% of energy consumption. Ductless systems consist of an outside unit containing the usual air conditioner and heat pump components and a relatively small indoor fan-coil unit that can be located on any nearby wall. The usual heat pump (or air conditioner) refrigerant tubing connects the two elements. These systems are ideal for smaller houses, remote rooms in large houses or for houses that have an open floor plan. This gives you the ability to "zone" or control heating and cooling to different parts of your home by using additional indoor air handling units.
The two primary components of a ductless system are: an outdoor condensing unit, and one or more indoor air handling units. The use of multiple air handlers connected to a single condenser gives the system its alternate name - mini-split. A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units. A filter is located at each air handler.
The main advantages of mini-split systems include:
 Compact size
 Flexible positioning
 Ease of installation
 Remote controls
 Zone cooling
 No energy loss on distribution
The compact size and low profile of the indoor air handlers offers flexibility of placement. With its non-obtrusive casing only extending out about 6-8 inches from the wall or ceiling surface there are numerous placement options in most rooms. They can be suspended from a ceiling, mounted flush into a drop ceiling, or hung on a wall. While ceiling or high wall placement is preferred, floor-mount units are also available.
Remote control features make it easier to control the system, especially when air handlers are positioned high on walls or suspended from ceilings. A remote can be used for selection of all system functions such as the temperature setpoint, switch to fan-only operation, redirecting the vanes on louvers, setting on/off timers, and adjusting energy-saver settings. Most units have automatic louver mechanisms that oscillate the air vanes for balanced airflow.
Most systems allow up to three air handling units (containing the evaporator coil) to be connected to a single outdoor condensing unit, depending on how much heating or cooling is required for each zone. Duct vibration noises and duct dirt/mold accumulations are also eliminated with a ductless system. Heat pump models are also available.
The primary disadvantage of ductless systems is their cost. Such systems cost about 30% more than conventional central systems, exclusive of ductwork, and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity. The appearance of the indoor unit is an issue for some people. Most air handlers have sleek modern designs, but they still are a component that would not typically be seen in the living area of a house with a conventional central system. However, they do not take up the window space that a window-mounted unit requires.
Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue.

Sallys "Things to Do in Niagara" August Edition

7th Annual Rotary Ribfest Aug 1-4th
Enjoy delicious ribs prepared by 7 competing chefs from all over the world. Entertainment - live music, activities for the young & young at heart. View website for schedules Location: Montebello Park St. Catharines http://www.clubrunner.ca
Port Colborne Canal Days Aug 1-4th
Celebrating marine Heritage. Vendors every day, buy a duck for the duck race. Visit the Port Colborne Historical & Marine Museum, enjoy live entertainment in Market Square. Canal Days also hosts a Nite Kite Fly on Sat Aug 2nd with an excellent Kite Festival from 10-4:30pm Sunday. Car Show at HH Knoll Lakeview Park Aug 3 & a boat parade of lights 9pm followed by fireworks display. Location: Downtown Port Colborne

Take it Downtown Sports Festival Aug 2, Includes 3 on 3 basketball, volleyball & street hockey tournaments. While enjoying the festival patronize the local establishments as they strive to enhance and re-vitalize the Niagara Falls downtown core. Location: Queen Street Downtown Niagara Falls
Royal Canadian Henley Regatta Aug 5-10th
The 126th Regatta is a premier rowing event, takes place on Martindale Pond. This event draws athletes from all over the world. Please visit web site for race details rowing schedules. Location: Martindale Pond St. Catharines
A Peach Of A Celebration Aug 9th The 18th annual Peach Celebration will take place on Queen Street, NOTL. Fife and Drum Parade, classic cars, entertainment and lots of peaches.
Siege of Fort Erie Aug 9, 10th Realistic re-enactment of battles that took place during 1814 which turned Fort Erie into one of Canada's bloodiest battlefields. Over 400 volunteers converge at Old Fort Erie to engage in 4 battles wearing period costume and living as our forefathers did during that time. Location: Old Fort Erie
3rd annual Art and Wine Aug 9, 10th Outdoor art fair to be held at RIEF ESTATE WINERY from 11AM~5:30PM. A wonderful opportunity to sip wines & meet artists amidst the vineyards. All media, including jewelry, paintings & sculpture. Location: Niagara on the Lake
Slovenian Festival Aug 10th Ethnic food, refreshments and outdoor BBQ. Dancing to the Walter Ostanek Band. Location: Lipa Park Pelham
10th Annual Kinsmen Car Show Aug 10th
Boasts up to 500 pristine, vintage cars. BBQ food, outdoor wine and beer garden, raffles, and a live DJ add to the events festive spirit! Location: Fort George Commons Niagara-on-the-Lake

Dare Devil Days Busker festival Aug 15-17 Multiple stages of music with strolling buskers & daredevils performing in historic downtown. While enjoying the festival patronize the local establishments as they strive to enhance & re-vitalize the downtown core. Location: Downtown Niagara Falls Niagara Falls
Niagara Jazz Festival Aug 16&17th Enjoy two days of fine jazz and blues along the historic Henley. Location: Henley Island Port Dalhousie

Fife & Drum Muster Aug 16&17th Witness as Fort George springs to life with the sound of fifes & drums drifting through the smoke & across the battlefield to mingle with the blast of muskets & the roar of cannon firings. Location: Fort George Niagara-on-the-Lake

The 10th Annual Niagara Bigga Tomatafest Aug 17th Entertainment at the Queenston Heights Band Shell, a food fair with children's activities. Watch the huge tomato weigh-off competition & witness the ever popular giant tomato stomping contest. Location: Queenston Heights Park Queenston
Winona Peach Festival Aug 22-24 Includes Arts & Crafts, Commercial Exhibits, Peachland, Amusement rides, free Main Stage and Children's Entertainment, Car Show and many food booths. Prize Draws, car draw on Sunday, Aug 24 - 5:00 PM. Location: Winona Park Winona

IlluminAqua Aug 22, 23rd Is a concert series performed on a stage floating on the Welland Canal in downtown Welland, surrounded by floating firepits. Please visit www.illuminaqua.com for more info. Location: Downtown Welland Merritt Park

Support the Troops Aviation Day Aug 27 The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will perform aerial acrobatics over the airport. A CF-18 Hornet is planned to perform a fly-by. A WWII Lancaster from the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum will follow. On the ground, vintage aircraft will be on display, with some warbirds offering rides. Location: Niagara Central Airport Pelham

20th Annual Marshville Heritage Festival Aug 30 - Sept 1
There are 14 buildings restored by the volunteers of the Marshville Heritage Society Inc. Visitors may tour these buildings, see many hands-on demonstrations of yesteryear, and shop at the 100+ crafter venues. Also an antique car show on Sat & Sun.Location: Marshville Heritage Village Wainfleet

Falls Fireworks & Coca Cola Concert Series Canada's longest running fireworks every Friday, Sunday & holiday at 10:00p.m., preceded by our Concert Series at 8:00 p.m. www.niagaraparks.com Location: Queen Victoria Park Niagara Falls

Contact me directly to see how I can help you reach your real estate dreams! I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because Im experienced, because Im professional & because I care. See the Dollar Difference Today!

Northend St. Catharines Party house SOLD!!!!

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:16:37 -0500

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Details Photo Gallery Northend (St. Catharines, Ontario, CA - L2N3N9) MLS®

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

Schedule A Showing

"Location, Location, Location" More Photos » Satellite View »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Type: Residential Style: 1 1/2 Story "Plus Balcony" Bedrooms: 3 "Two up plus 1 down" Bathrooms: 1 "fully updated" Garage: Double, Detached "Party Room with Sunroom" Basement: Yes, Full "Finished" Size: 1,170 sq. ft. "plus bonus Party Room" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 57ft x 135.5ft Taxes: $2,738.74 (2007)

Description

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! NO DETAIL SPARED UPDATING THIS HOME. BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN WITH SLATE FLOORS, FRENCH DOORS, BUILT-INS & CABINETS GALORE! NEW CHERRY HARDWOOD IN LIVING & DINING ROOMS [FORMER 3RD BEDROOM], FRENCH DOORS TO BEAUTIFUL 2 TIERED WOOD DECK WITH BALCONY ABOVE. UPDATED AND SPOTLESS MAIN BATH WITH WHIRLPOOL TUB & SEPARATE SHOWER. MASTER BEDROOM WITH GAS FIREPLACE, WALK-IN CLOSET, FRENCH DOORS TO 27' BALCONY. 2ND BEDROOM WITH BALCONY ACCESS TOO. ** FULL DOUBLE GARAGE TURNED IN TO GAMES ROOM WITH BAR AND SEPARATE FLORIDA ROOM, THIRD FURNACE / GAS FIREPLACE. FULLY FENCED BACKYARD WITH 2 TIERED DECK, 2 BEAUTIFUL PONDS.....TOO MUCH TO SAY ...SEE THE VIRTUAL TOUR FOR MORE!

Features

Interior Features

▪ Ceiling Fan	▪ Fireplace	▪ Hardwood Floors
▪ Skylights	▪ Window Covers

Cooling

▪ Central Air

Exterior Finish

▪ Stucco

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Appliances

▪ Central Vacuum

▪ Dishwasher

Lot Features

▪ Fenced	▪ Fenced Yard	▪ Front Porch
▪ Garden Area	▪ Landscaped	▪ Lawn
▪ Patio	▪ Shed	▪ Trees / Shrubs

Royal LePage Niagara Home Connection June 2008

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:10:43 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
www.SallyDollar.com

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	Get a REALTOR on your team
·	Grow Houses - "Mary Jane Used to Live Here"
·	When Your Ant Comes To Visit

Summer is coming!

Its hard to believe that we are already starting June & school is almost out! They are calling for a high of 30 degrees for this weekend with humidex almost 40!! The real estate market is still steady, but the higher prices that we have seen people get over the past few years are starting to adjust & decrease to more reasonable values. There are still plenty of buyers looking for a bargain, they are not willing to overpay though. There is still time to sell your home before the summer is over. Call Sally if you need any real estate advice - send a friend too!


Featured Listing
	Could You Use Four Bedrooms ? This a great opportunity to have 4 above grade bedrooms on a nice deep lot close to the heart of the city. Try my mortgage calculator at www.sallydollar.com to see that your mortgage payment could be $592.55 with 0% down on a variable rate mortgage ... ask me how to get this 4.125 % rate. View the virtual tour at http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.aspx?ListingID=1749945

Get a REALTOR on your team

Lots of people are taking advantage of a good Spring market right now and trying to sell their homes without using a realtor. Whatever the reason (most commonly to save money), make sure that you do your research and use the power of the internet to learn everything you need to know about protecting yourself in a transaction. If you are not using a licensed realtor to sell or buy your home, make sure that you have a lawyer look over any documents before you sign them and get EVERYTHING in writing.
Use common sense and make sure you have a plan for personal safety in place as well. Dont be afraid to ask questions of potential buyers or sellers and ask them for proof of their pre-qualifications, financial information, ability to buy or sell that house. If in doubt, consult a professional.

Get a REALTOR® on your team when buying or selling
Thinking of buying or selling a home? If so you'll want to enlist the services of a REALTOR® to help you navigate through this complicated business transaction from start to finish.
Your REALTOR® has what it takes to help you every step of the way to achieving your home ownership dreams. And, he or she will be the top player on a team of experts who will protect your interests and ensure your real estate transaction goes smoothly.
The team
Depending on your needs, the other experts on your team will likely include a lender, a lawyer, and insurance agent and a home inspector. Your REALTOR® will offer guidance as to how to proceed with your purchase or sale and when it's time to bring in the other experts and professionals on your team.
REALTORS® role
A REALTOR® has vast amounts of real estate knowledge and the experience required to stay cool, even in a hot real estate market. In Ontario, a REALTOR® is a licensed real estate professional who is a member of a local real estate board as well as the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). When you work with a REALTOR®, you can expect strict adherence to provincial law as well as to a code of ethics ensuring you'll receive the highest level of service, honesty and integrity.
If you are buying a home, your REALTOR® can help you determine how much house you can afford, offer advice on choosing the right neighbourhood and ensure your interests are best served during negotiations.
If you are selling a home, your REALTOR® will help you determine a fair and accurate asking price for your home, develop a marketing plan, offer advice to help make your home more "saleable," screen potential buyers, show your home and, of course, negotiate on your behalf.
Lender
As you and your REALTOR® begin looking for a home, it is wise to also begin looking for a mortgage lender. Your REALTOR® can help you review various mortgage options to ensure you get the best rates and terms available. Although most buyers will start their search with their own bank or financial institution, it pays to shop around for more competitive rates. Often, your bank will match or beat a competitor's rate to keep you as a customer.
Lawyer
It is recommended that you have a lawyer waiting in the wings, preferably one who specializes in real estate transactions, to review complicated documents such as the Agreement of Purchase and Sale. If you are selling, it's wise to have a lawyer review an offer to purchase before you sign it. As a buyer, your lawyer will also ensure you receive clear title to the property and calculate the amount of land transfer tax you will be required to pay.
Home inspector
Having a home professionally inspected before you seal the deal to buy can help you avoid costly surprises after you move in. A home inspector will report any minor problems as well as major ones such as structural deficiencies that could affect your decision to buy at all or at what price.
Insurance broker
In order to secure financing, mortgage lenders require insurance on the home. Just like when you shopped for your mortgage, do your homework with insurance companies too. Insurance coverage and rates vary and you will want to be sure you get the coverage you want at a fair price.
Your MVP
Having the right team of experts on your side can mean the difference between a successful real estate transaction and a personal and financial nightmare. When you select your team, start with a REALTOR®- she will be your Most Valuable Player.

Grow Houses - "Mary Jane Used to Live Here"

Especially pertinent to buyers who are not using a Professional Realtor® - a person selling a home privately does not have to disclose to you that a home was a former grow house - a Realtor® absolutely does have to disclose it to you. With the last few months of record busts in Niagara, this information is good for everyone to know.

Have you ever wondered why your neighbours never surface from their home, rarely have any garbage to pick up, always have the blinds down or windows covered, come and go at unusual hours? If this is the case, there is a possibility you are living beside a grow house. With an estimated 50,000 grow houses in Canada, there is growing concern about health, fire, safety, and structural implications for home buyers. But what risk is there in owning a grow home?
What is a grow house?
A grow house is a home that has been converted into a marijuana operation. Larger homes in quiet areas with unfinished basements are preferred, although grow houses can exist in any neighbourhood.
What are the signs and the risks?
There must be ideal greenhouse conditions for these operations. The electrical system is usually altered to power the hydroponic equipment. Operators may also steal electricity by tapping into the electrical service before it enters the electrical meter, and bring power into the house through a hole in the foundation. Additional circuitry is usually added inside the home to bring electrical power to the equipment, and operators rarely make sure that these alterations meet electrical codes. While these modifications can create a hazardous electrical situation, improvements can be made to ensure the electrical system remains safe for a potential homebuyer.Holes cut in the foundation wall can be repaired as well, but if not done properly, the potential for water leakage remains.
Plants require light, ideal temperature, water and nutrients in order to thrive, and with the heat generated by hydroponic lighting, a significant amount of humidity is produced in the process. While humans, animals, and plants need humidity, too much can cause mould, mildew, and rot to form in the home, especially in or on exterior surfaces. Often, modifications are made to the home to help vent the excess humidity to the outdoors and bring in fresh air from the outside. Fireplaces and chimneys can be used as channels for removing excess moisture. Structural members such as floor and ceiling joists are sometimes cut to accommodate additional ductwork. The structural integrity of the home may be compromised by the combination of cut framing members and high humidity. Signs of high humidity are usually most visible in attic spaces, where the moist air is often dumped. Darkening of attic surfaces is generally a good indicator that mould and mildew are present.
Mould comes in many colours and may be visible and distinct. It can also be very subtle. Surface mould may be the tip of an iceberg, with considerable mould concealed behind the wall. In other cases, the mould is only on the surface. The toughest situation occurs when the mould is not visible. Home inspectors pay particular attention to intersecting walls and ceilings where air circulation is poor or areas that have been chronically damp or wet. The good news is that many grow houses are in operation for less than a year, which may not be enough time for mould to thrive and cause serious structural damage.
Other clues
Look for painted concrete floors in the basement, and walls that have been painted white to reflect light. Screw holes and patches are often visible in the foundation wall where equipment was mounted above the floor level to avoid any water on the floor. Multiple splices in the plumbing system may be present to nourish the crop. Chemical odours, including fertilizers and pesticides are also used, which can create health hazards through poor indoor air quality.
Conclusion
While it is expected that realtors who are representing sellers or landlords of these properties should make every effort to ensure that all parties are notified of the potential issues, a home inspection can help quantify the severity of these issues. In some cases, with proper clean-up and repair, these homes can be lived in with concern. Unfortunately, insurance companies are also being very cautious & focusing on reducing loss ratios, not on acquiring business, making it more difficult to get insurance on high risk homes such as grow homes.

When Your Ant Comes To Visit

Mistaken Identity
Carpenter Ants should not be confused with termites. Termites are white in colour and are smaller than a grain of rice. Carpenter ants look like regular black ants, except a little bigger. Adult carpenter ants grow to be as much as one-half inch long. Queens are often twice that size.
If you get really intimate with a carpenter ant you will notice that they have bent or "elbowed"
antennae. They only have one Node or bump on the joint between their thorax and abdomen (the thorax is the middle section and the abdomen is the rear section), and the thorax on some carpenter ants is burnt orange or chestnut red in colour. They also have hairy abdomens.
You will never see a termite unless you break open a piece of infested wood or a shelter tube (tunnels that termites use to get from the soil, where they live, to the wood they are eating). Carpenter ants, on the other hand, roam around looking for food the same way ordinary ants do.
Termites eat wood. Carpenter ants do not. Instead, they burrow into wood to make a nest and they push the wood and other debris (called frass) out of their colonies. The inside of the infested wood is spotlessly clean and consists of smooth galleries through the wood.
Finding A Home
Most carpenter ant nests are outdoors in tree stumps, fence posts, and unfortunately, sometimes in porches. But these ants will also nest indoors in rotten or damp wood or sound wood adjacent to a source of moisture such as a sweaty pipe, washing machines, dishwashers or baseboards in damp areas. Although they normally excavate their colonies, they sometimes live in hollow doors, window frames, etc.
Carpenter ants are omnivorous meaning they eat all different types of food. Outdoors they eat plants, insects, (their favourite are aphids), fruit, etc. Indoors they eat household foodstuff, especially syrup, honey, sugar, fat and grease.
On their way back to the colony, they rarely take the same route twice, which can make it difficult to locate the nest. Even though the colony may be indoors, most of the ants will go outdoors to feed. This also reduces the likelihood of detection. To make matters worse, the ants are more active at night than in the daytime and some colonies go dormant during the winter. (The colony is most active during the spring and summer.)
Coming Out of the Closet
In the summer months, swarms of winged carpenter ants (both male and female) leave the
colony. They mate on the fly, return to earth and shed their wings. The female (queen) then finds a suitable place to lay her eggs which hatch into larvae. The larvae develop into adults in 2 to 10 months depending on the temperature. These adults are workers and at this stage the colony is only a queen plus 10 to 20 workers. The colony takes 3 to 6 years to develop, during which time the queen lays eggs and the workers care for the young. A queen has a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years while workers can live 4 or 5 years. When the colony has developed, winged males and females form. They remain in the colony over the winter and take flight the next summer to begin the process again. A developed colony may contain thousands of ants. Needless to say, the damage to wooden components can be significant to make a home for this many ants.
Kissing Your Ants Goodbye
We have to find the colony to get rid of the ants. This can be tricky. Sawdust at entrances to the colony is one method. Listening for the ants is another. At quiet times, a dry rustling sound can be heard from the colony (some specialists use stethoscopes to listen for them). If you bang on the wood, it disturbs them and the noise level from the colony will increase. Finding and eliminating the colony is best left to a pest control specialist.
Your best defence against carpenter ants is elimination of damp environments and rotted wood within the home. Storing firewood adjacent to the house or in the basement is not wise. While chemical treatment can kill the colony, they'll be back next year if suitable conditions exist.

Contact me directly to see how I can help you reach your real estate dreams! I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because Im experienced, because Im professional & because I care. This Dollar works to make your dollars count!

Off The Market

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Sat, 24 May 2008 10:58:46 -0500

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

Schedule A Showing

"Low mortgage payments" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage



Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Type: Residential Style: 1 1/2 Story Bedrooms: 4 "Large Bedrooms" Bathrooms: 1 "4 updated piece" Basement: No Size: 1,223 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 44.35ft x 144.1ft "Backing onto large empty lot" Taxes: $1,596.00 (2007)

Description

Larger than it looks from the photos. 4 Bedroom 1 and a half storey home in convenient location near Highway 406, shopping and close to downtown. Eat-in kitchen, main floor laundry room/mud room, updated 4 piece bathroom, 2 good-sized main floor bedrooms, 2 additional bedrooms upstairs, hardwood floors. Large fenced backyard with deck overlooking a large empty lot. A great piece of property.

Features

Interior Features

▪ Hardwood Floors

▪ Window Covers

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas

Exterior Finish

▪ Aluminum

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Lot Features

▪ Deck	▪ Fenced Yard	▪ Garden Area
▪ Lawn	▪ Playground	▪ Trees / Shrubs

View

▪ Park

SOLD!!!! 508 Niagara Street For Sale St. Catharines

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 20:11:45 -0500

Details Photo Gallery Northend (St. Catharines, Ontario, CA - L2M3P5) MLS® Reasonably Priced

Quick Links
Virtual Tour

Schedule A Showing

"Finishing touches needed" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage


Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Address: 508 Niagara Street Type: Residential Style: Bungalow "Ranch" Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 "4 piece" Garage: Double, Attached "220 Power + furnace" Basement: Yes, Full "Partially Finished" Size: 1,122 sq. ft. "plus basement" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 50ft x 115.7ft "irregular" Year Built: n/a "1960's" Taxes: $2,689.83 (2007)

Description

3 Bedroom ranch bungalow with huge double garage and additional rear garage door with its own gas furnace and 220 power. Freshly painted, hardwood floors, plaster walls with cove mouldings, updated kitchen with patio doors to back yard. Updated lighting & flooring, living room with wood burning fireplace, wide fenced backyard, built-in gas BBQ, patio. Mostly finished rec room - just needs flooring, large laundry room/workshop, rough-in for 2nd bath. Parking for up to 5 vehicles in asphalt driveway. Mature trees.

Features

Interior Features

▪ Fireplace

▪ Hardwood Floors

▪ Laundry Room

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas

Exterior Finish

▪ Wood

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Lot Features

▪ Fenced Yard	▪ Front Porch	▪ Garden Area
▪ Landscaped	▪ Lawn	▪ Patio
▪ Trees / Shrubs

Appliances

▪ Central Vacuum	▪ Dishwasher	▪ Refrigerator
▪ Stove

Extra Features

▪ Cable Available

▪ Garage Door Opener

▪ Satellite Dish

Cooling

▪ Central Air

April 2008 Home Connection Niagara Newsletter

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 07:22:12 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
http://www.sallydollar.com/

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
Visit: www.SallyDollar.com
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	Recession Fears?
·	Can I see some ID Please? Realtors will begin looking for Photo ID
·	Spring Cleaning? Please Keep Your Stuff out of the Landfill!!!!

Hope you are enjoying the warmer weather!

Lots of people are beginning the ritual spring cleaning and/or house hunting. If you are planning on selling...there are 683 homes for sale in St. Catharines right now - dont get lost in the pile - list now before the spring market is in full swing...There are plenty of qualified buyers out there, but competition is still hot - if you are buying ... make sure you are prequalified with a mortgage specialist - the variable rate can be 3-4.8%! That way if you are competing on a property .... you are "good to go"! Don't forget to call or email me, I'm here to help!


Featured Listing
	Truly a Featured Better Homes & Gardens House Gordon Stewart 3+1 bedroom, open concept 1958 award winning "Idea home" . Featured in Better Homes & Gardens in the 1970's. Overlooking wooded ravine and the Niagara escarpment. A very unique home in a beautiful neighbourhood ... minutes to Brock University and 406 Highway. $299,900.00 View virtual tour at: http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.aspx?ListingID=1636008

Recession Fears?

Canadian Real Estate Association addresses recession fears:
The Canadian real estate market is not on the brink of collapse and is expected to have balanced conditions in 2008, and REALTORS® need to get that message out.

Analysts continue to suggest the Canadian real estate market will follow the same path as the United States. Recent events including use of the word "recession" in the U.S. and record swings on the stock market, have generated media speculation about a similar downturn in the Canadian market. In February, the Canadian Real Estate Association issued a news release to try to counteract the negative press with a dose of "economic reality," in the form of market numbers and facts.

In a letter to boards and associations, CREA President Ann Bosley said the statistics show the future of the residential real estate market in Canada is solid. "However, the problem is that the analysts views could become self-fulfilling and the greater the predictions of gloom, the greater the impact on the Canadian housing market." Bosley encouraged boards to get the message out to brokers in order that they may in turn share the information with clients.

In addition, the interest rate cut announced in March by the Bank of Canada will help Canadian home owners and buyers, though it is an acknowledgement that the U.S. economic slowdown was likely to be deeper and more prolonged than the Bank had projected six weeks earlier, said CREA President Ann Bosley.

"When the Bank decided to lower interest rates, the advertised five-year conventional mortgage rate stood at 7.29 per cent. This is less than one per cent above where it stood at the beginning of last year. Competition among mortgage lenders remains stiff, which continues to help many borrowers negotiate discounts from advertised rates."

Declining interest rates and a rebound in economic growth are factored into the CREA MLS® 2008 market forecast. "MLS® sales activity will stay strong and reach the second highest level on record this year. Residential MLS® prices are also expected to continue rising. Additional cuts to mortgage interest rates are good news for housing affordability and Canadian housing demand," CREA's chief economist Gregory Klump added.

Other key players in the real estate market are painting a positive picture for the economy in 2008 with Scotia Bank expecting "balanced conditions will prevail throughout 2008, which will mark a return to a more 'normal' environment than the highly skewed seller's market that we have experienced over the better part of this decade."

CREA's maintains "domestic economy and the housing market will weather the sub-prime fallout with the help of lower interest rates," Klump said.

Can I see some ID Please? Realtors will begin looking for Photo ID

Money laundering law New Procedures for REALTORS®
Changes to Canada's anti-money laundering legislation, the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PC(ML)TFA) come into effect on June 23, 2008, with requirements for REALTORS® to ask for ID from all real estate clients.

The forthcoming amendments will affect how real estate transactions are conducted in Canada, adding to existing requirements and building on obligations that have been in place since 2001.

The most significant changes require REALTORS® to identify clients, keep a client identification/receipt of funds record for every real estate transaction and report attempted suspicious transactions.

Canadian Real Estate Assocaition has met with FINTRAC to discuss the three key points for real estate: the requirement for a firm's self assessment of its potential risk or exposure to money laundering and terrorist financing; a definition of a suspicious attempted transaction, and; the requirement for identification of foreign or non face-to-face buyers.

Below, FINTRAC identifies the new requirements.

Keep records
REALTORS® must keep a client information record for every purchase or sale of real estate, setting out your client's name, address, date of birth and the nature of the client's principal business or occupation.

If the client is a corporation, they must also keep a copy of the part of the official corporate records showing the provisions relating to the power to bind the corporation regarding the transaction.

REALTORS® Have to Identify their clients
Currently, if REALTORS® have identified an individual before, they do not have to do so again if they recognize the individual. Once the changes come into effect, if they have doubts about the information collected concerning an individual's previous identification, you will have to identify that individual again.

If the parties in the transaction are each represented by a different real estate broker or sales representative, they will have to identify the individual or confirm the existence of the entity that they represent in the transaction.

Spring Cleaning? Please Keep Your Stuff out of the Landfill!!!!

The Freecycle Network^TM is made up of 4,326 groups with 4,814,000 members across the globe. It's a grassroots and entirely nonprofit movement of people who are giving (& getting) stuff for free in their own towns. It's all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. Each local group is moderated by a local volunteer (them's good people). Membership is free. To sign up, find your community by entering it into the search box or by clicking on "Browse Groups" above the search box. Have fun!

My favorite scenario about this group is they lady who was trying to get rid of old stained sheets and offered them up on the post. "who would want those, I thought.....eewww". Turns out that the local Humane Society was looking for sheets for puppies and kittens and gratefully accepted the offer! This was an "AH HA" moment for me. There are computer students looking for broken computers and pieces, there are single parents looking for household items, there are "Mr. and Mrs. Fix-its" looking to fix items for charity. There are kids looking for boots or bikes or beds.....It taught me the lesson that even if we could not imagine who would use something or why.....someone will appreciate your gift.

The idea and philosophy of the group is "Changing the world one gift at a time". It is your decision to give your "gift" to whomever you choose. Please consider it a gift.....broken items may have just the parts someone needs to complete something ..... extra things may help someone start out on their own or save them some money. The neat part is that they will come to your house and pick it up! It works the other way too - ever loose one of a pair of something ..... maybe one of the membership has too and it matches yours ..... ever break a coffee pot ..... maybe someone on-line broke their coffee maker and only has the good carafe left... Feel free to ask for what you need. FREE STUFF is FUN! Best of all, it keeps all of our old/used/broken or perfectly good things out of our landfill!

Visit the link: www.SallyDollar.com on the left sidebar click on Freecycle and feel good about it!

FREECYCLE^TM Disclaimer: FREECYCLE^TM NETWORK MEMBERS USE THE LIST AT THEIR OWN RISK. Please take reasonable measures to protect your safety/privacy when posting or participating in an exchange. By joining the list, you agree to not hold the list owners, moderators nor anyone affiliated with Freecycle.org responsible or liable for any circumstance resulting from a Freecycle^TM-related exchange or communication.

I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because Im experienced, because Im professional & because I care. Don't forget to share my experience and tools with your friends & family - I would love to help them through the experience, step by step, as well.

Old Glenridge Below Brock University - SOLD

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:06:26 -0500

New Listing - First time offered since 1971

"Gordon Stewart 1958 "Idea Home"" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage


Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Address: Marsdale Drive Type: Residential Style: Bungalow "California Style" Bedrooms: 3 "plus one downstairs" Bathrooms: 2 "full baths" Garage: Single, Attached "Carport" Basement: Yes, Full "Finished" Size: 1,592 sq. ft. "plus finished basement" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 70ft x 120ft "to be verified" Year Built: 1958 "Ahead of its time!" Taxes: $4,010.00 (2007)

Description

Gordon Stewart 3+1 bedroom, open concept 1958 award winning "Idea home" with California styling. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens in the 1970's. Location, Location, Location overlooking wooded ravine lot on the west and the Niagara escarpment (a world biosphere) to the south. Grand entranceway, African mohogany wall panelling, wall to wall windows in living room, exposed brick wall with one of two wood fireplaces with large attractive cantilevered hood, skylights, cathedral ceilings, built-in appliances, poplar kitchen cabinets, oak hardwood under carpets, built-in china/display cabinet. Downstairs has large finished rec room with fireplace, 4th bedroom, 2nd bath, laundry, workshop & basement walk-out. Furnace 3 yrs old, roof 5 +/-, some new flooring. A very unique home in a beautiful neighbourhood ... minutes to Brock University and 406 Highway.

Features

Interior Features

▪ Carpeted Floors	▪ Cathedral Ceiling	▪ Fireplace
▪ Hardwood Floors	▪ Laundry Room	▪ Skylights
▪ Window Covers

Cooling

▪ Central Air

Exterior Finish

▪ Brick

▪ Wood

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

View

▪ Forest

▪ Valley

Lot Features

▪ Garden Area	▪ Landscaped	▪ Lawn
▪ Patio	▪ Shed	▪ Trees / Shrubs

Appliances

▪ Dryer	▪ Freezer	▪ Hood Fan
▪ Oven Range	▪ Refrigerator	▪ Stove
▪ Washer

Sally's March 2008 Niagara News

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:49:24 -0500

Sally Dollar
Sales Representative

905-937-6000 (Office)
1-866-999-9497 (Office)
dollar@royallepage.ca
http://www.sallydollar.com/

Royal LePage Niagara R.E. Centre, Brokerage
Let me save you time and money!
101 LAKEPORT RD
ST. CATHARINES, ON L2N7L7

In this issue...

·	Featured Listing
·	High Price Appreciation and Record-Breaking Activity in 2007
·	Using Architectural Salvage in Your Home
·	Your Place in the Past: Researching the History of Your Home

Welcome Spring!

Land transfer tax rebates, eco friendly housing, lowered interest rates!!!! Why would you pay someone else's mortgage or stay in a home that is too small or big for you? Now is a great time to move in Niagara! Well priced homes are flying off the market already. If you want to sell, we have Buyers..... and if you want to Buy .... make sure you have signed Buyer Representation (someone you hire to work for you - I still get paid by the Seller). Check out my website and blog for lots more tips on representation and saving you money in your next real estate move!


Featured Listing
	Fixer uppers and investors!!! What about this one!!! Reduced for fast sale to $93,900.00 If you are a handyman, come and fix what the previous owners broke! They started the renovations ..... and then lost the home to the bank. Can you afford a mortgage of under $600 per month? View the tour at: http://www.sallydollar.com/Listing/VirtualTour.aspx?ListingID=1442121

High Price Appreciation and Record-Breaking Activity in 2007

Canada's real estate market posted significant gains in the fourth quarter of 2007 and showed little sign of the traditional seasonal slowdown. Average house prices continued to increase in the fourth quarter with many markets experiencing double-digit gains, according to a House Price Survey report released by Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

Of the housing types surveyed, detached bungalows increased to $337,555 (+11.6 %), followed by standard two-storey properties, which rose to $399,738 (+11.3%), and standard condominiums, which increased in price to $240,395 (+11.7 %), year-over-year.

"The fourth quarter 2007 was surprisingly strong, with unseasonably high price increases and unwavering demand," said Phil Soper, president and chief executive, Royal LePage Real Estate Services. "The strength of the market was apparent throughout the country, largely due to positive economic fundamentals. The value and export-demand for our natural resources has underpinned high employment rates, providing Canadians with confidence in the future stability of their jobs and their local residential real estate markets."

Added Soper: "As we move into the new year, activity levels are expected to wane from the frantic pace that many regions of the country experienced in 2007; however, average prices are expected to continue to rise, albeit at a much more moderate pace. Canadian buyers and sellers can expect healthy, balanced conditions in 2008 - the best environment for a strong and sustainable real estate market."

For more information, please see the Royal LePage Survey of Canadian House Prices at http://www.royallepage.ca/.

If you are wondering what your home is worth in today's market, please contact me and let me put my expertise to work for you!

Survey of Canadian Average House Prices in the Fourth Quarter 2007

Detached
Bungalow
Standard
Two Storey
Standard
Condominium
2007 Q4 Average
Annual Change
2007 Q4 Average
Annual Change
2007 Q4 Average
Annual Change
Halifax
$201,333
6.7%
$231,667
16.2%
$148,500
4.2%
Charlottetown
$152,000
4.8%
$180,000
2.9%
$100,000
2.0%
Moncton
$151,000
2.7%
$135,000
3.8%
-
N/A
Fredericton
$155,000
1.3%
$197,000
5.3%
$126,000
-0.4%
Saint John
$196,500
43.4%
$255,000
25.4%
-
N/A
St. John's
$157,667
9.7%
$219,333
11.5%
$165,000
12.8%
Atlantic
$168,917
10.8%
$203,000
11.6%
$134,875
5.1%
Montreal
$229,314
5.4%
$342,491
7.2%
$201,912
5.6%
Ottawa
$308,583
5.6%
$306,500
6.8%
$196,833
7.7%
Toronto
$413,375
8.9%
$506,900
8.0%
$280,505
10.4%
Winnipeg
$214,494
20.8%
$237,571
19.6%
$124,270
20.1%
Regina
$229,200
52.4%
$199,000
35.8%
$144,000
49.2%
Saskatoon
$292,500
52.2%
$321,500
56.7%
$205,000
65.3%
Calgary
$429,889
5.2%
$461,811
8.5%
$284,144
9.5%
Edmonton
$336,786
12.8%
$370,000
13.6%
$240,500
13.2%
Vancouver
$795,250
12.4%
$895,000
11.4%
$428,250
10.9%
Victoria
$425,000
11.8%
$456,000
9.4%
$292,000
22.7%
National
$337,555
11.6%
$399,738
11.3%
$240,395
11.7%

Using Architectural Salvage in Your Home

When old buildings such as houses, hotels, churches or commercial spaces get demolished or renovated, there are companies that go in to "save" interesting or useful elements before the wrecking ball arrives. These companies salvage things like windows, doors, hardware, radiators, floor grates, stair parts, lighting, fencing, lumber, ceiling tiles, fireplace mantels, bathtubs, flooring and more.

Whether you live in a quaint century home, a huge modern loft or a tiny condo, using salvaged architectural pieces can be a unique and environmentally-friendly way to decorate.

Why use old building elements instead of buying new?

They don't make things like they used to. When you install a sturdy old oak door, for example, you're getting quality materials and excellent craftsmanship - at far less than a new, and sometimes inferior quality, door would cost.
It's "green". You're not sending a viable item to landfill, or using resources to create a new one. You're being environmentally responsible and preserving a piece of the past.
It's unique. In an era of cookie-cutter homes and mass-produced furnishings, distinctive elements will always make a statement.

Ideas for your home.

Architectural salvage works in any space, from antique-filled to ultra-modern. Here are just a few ideas:

Replace boring doorknobs with lovely brass, porcelain or cut glass knobs.
Old tin ceiling tiles make great wall hangings. Use them rust and all, or take four tiles with the same pattern, paint each one a different colour, and hang them as a grouping.
Replace the bathtub in your modern space with a deep, elegant clawfoot soaker.
Install a row of crystal doorknobs in the bathroom to hang towels, or use them as pretty drapery tie-backs.
Replace a standard floor grate with a lovely iron one, or hang one on your wall as art.
Use a piece of wrought-iron fencing as a headboard.
Use beautiful old hinges on your doors - you can find some really ornate ones that would look equally good in a period home or a contemporary space.
Thinking about installing hardwood floors? Reclaimed wood flooring is great quality, and it's less expensive and more environmentally-friendly than buying new.
Install old stained glass or leaded glass windows into non-load-bearing internal walls to allow light to shine through.
If you're restoring an old home, architectural salvage centres are a valuable resource for staying true to the style and period of the house. The people who work there tend to be very knowledgeable.

Where to find salvaged items.

Architectural salvage stores have the best selection. Look up "architectural salvage" online or in the yellow pages, or try "building materials - used," "salvage and surplus" or "antiques." Talk to demolition contractors and ask them where they take their salvaged building materials.
Estate auctions are another great source - anything from windows and decorations to entire houses can come up at auction. Check your local paper, or search online for auctions in your area.
Don't discount flea markets, garage sales and other sources of used goods.
Call your local historical restoration or preservation society.
Shop online - you can find anything on eBay.

Using architectural salvage in your home is an affordable and environmentally-friendly way to add originality and a bit of history when you decorate or renovate your space.

Your Place in the Past: Researching the History of Your Home

Who lived in your home before you did? What's the history of your condo conversion? What was the land used for before your house was there?

If the answers to those questions intrigue you, you may want to research the history of your house, building or the land it's on. You may be surprised at the interesting information you uncover. Here are a few ideas to help you get your research started:

Check the structure, style and materials of your home.

Style can give you a rough sense of when it was built. Look for original hardware, wallpaper or flooring for further clues. If you're renovating, check inside the walls for old newspapers, which were often used as insulation.

Open up your filing cabinet.

Your deed, assessment notice, and tax bill can give you clues about the history of your property.

Talk to your neighbours.

Long-time area residents are a great resource. Talk to them - they'll probably enjoy sharing their memories. Find out if they have old photos of the neighbourhood. You can even track down the former owners of the house and see if they're willing to chat.

If you live in a newer neighbourhood, check if there's an older house nestled in among the newly built ones. Talk to the owners - they may have insights into the neighbourhood and the people who once owned the land where your house now stands.

Look online.

Google your street name or neighbourhood. You could find old photos, information about former residents, and details about the properties in your area.

If you own a recently built house or condo, visit to your developer's website or contact them directly. Condos that have been converted from heritage buildings often include information on the building's history. You may also find information on suburban developments built on former farms, and urban infill projects may have some interesting history as well.

Visit your local library, archive or museum.

Look for information about your neighbourhood as well as your house or building. Check these resources:

Fire insurance plans. Includes info about the date a house or building was built, modified or demolished, what materials were used and the lot size and shape.
Property tax assessment rolls. Contain the name and occupation of the owner(s) at time of assessment, as well as a list of occupants, a description of the property and its assessed value.
City directories. Listings include the name and occupation of the owner(s).
Photographs. Look for images of your home, street or land, or aerial photos of your neighbourhood.

Also look for census record, building permits, and voters lists. Talk to the people that work in the library, museum or archive - they may know about great local resources not mentioned here.

Call the land registry office.

They can tell you how to search for titles to your property, which indicate who built your home and who has owned it over the years.

Finding about your home's past can be a fun challenge - learning about your property and the people who lived or worked there before you is a great way to get a sense of history, find details to make your restoration historically accurate, get to know your neighbours, and appreciate your home in a whole new way.

Check this resource...

Be Your Own House Detective: Tracing the Hidden History of Your Own House by Mac Dowdy, Judith Miller, and David Austin

Don't keep me a secret! Who is the next person you know looking to buy or sell? Anytime you come across anyone with an interest in real estate, please recommend me and let me know of their interest. A referral is sending someone you care about to someone you respect.


All offices are independently owned and operated, except those offices marked as "Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd." Not intended to solicit currently listed properties. The above information is from sources believed reliable, however, no responsibility is assumed for the accuracy of this information. ©2008 Residential Income Fund L.P.

To Show or Not to Show??? HELP!

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 12:38:37 -0600

I have run in to this situation a few times over the past few months. I am working with clients (couples) who can't make up their minds!! Before I even take buyers out to show them houses, I qualifiy them and try to narrow down their needs as much as possible. I even give them access to an MLS portal where they can pick and choose properties that match their criteria and pre-approve them. These few clients are mostly from out of town (or live in town and want to buy out of town) and have each seen well over 30 homes, and to make matters more confusing, they are bouncing from city to city, area to area and style to style. I have heard that buyers are liars, and I would hate to use those words, but it gets very frustrating for all involved. How many homes do I show them before I suggest that maybe they are too finicky or too flipsy/flopsy? I get caught in the middle of spouses arguing at appointments and it is embarrasing.

I take pride in qualifying my clients and informing them of all their options and using technology and virtual tours to preview homes and save time. How can I nicely and politely explain to my clients that they first need to agree between themselves what they are looking for and then they need to tell me!!!! I am one of the most patient people that walk this earth, but with the market being sooo busy right now, I am feeling a little testy. I have put thousands of miles on my truck to view homes that I know the client wont like, but they insist on seeing anyway. i have even held off getting Buyer Agency signed with some people because I am not sure I want to be stuck with THEM!

Does anyone have any ideas on how to help undecided and indecisive people through a decision before spending weeks and months touring them around and listening to them complain to each other that there is nothing on the market that they like??? I have tried to direct them with the speech about "location, location, location" and if I suggest they take a property off the list due to location they get upset, but I dont want to show them properties that I know they wont like because of area - it would only bite me in the end if they bought one and then asked me to re-sell it. I have explained that for the same $$ you will get a better home in a worse area or a worse hoem in a better area.

I guess I just need to be more pushy and firm and remind them that I am the Professional.....but what do I say when they shoot back with "but we have to live there"???? She wants new and he wants old and cheap!!

Any tips would be appreciated by me and my gas tank!!!!! Happy selling!

Another Insurance Cash Grab or Safe Living???? Electrical Certificates for Insurance?

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:23:46 -0600

Buying or Selling a Home with Electrical Issues - Insurance may be an Issue

I have run in to 2 deals so far this year that the electrical has been an issue in the sale. There is more information needed for our industry. Both homes had aluminum wiring and both homes (we were told) required an ESA Certificate. The first home had an expensive time of it as the inspection created more issues that needed to be fixed prior to certification. The other realtor in the sale got stuck with paying for the certificate and the inspection by a master electrician. The other home was pretty much o.k. The certificate itself cost just over $100.00.

I want every house I sell to be safe .... however, I am not an electrician. If the walls and ceiling are finished in the basement, how am I to know (without taking off the elctrical panel - which I cant do) that a house has aluminum wiring ..... That is the question that is costing us and our clients money right now. The insurance companies .... State Farm and Co-operators, Pilot and more are asking for an ESA Certificate or at the very least a Master Electrican to put his neck on the line and certify that a house does NOT have any electrical issues....good luck with that one, before they will insure a property....... Who should pay????

More and more frequently insurance companies are refusing to insure homes with 60 amp services, knob and tube wiring, and in some cases, even aluminum wiring. Like all electrical components, they can be dangerous is they do not meet certain minimum requirements, but they can also be as safe as any others.
The Consumer Division of the Insurance Bureau of Canada operates an information line at 1-800-387-2880 that can answer some questions with respect to how to obtain insurance on homes equipped with 60 amp services, knob & tube and aluminum wiring. You may also be requested to get an Electrical Safety Association Certificate (www.esasafe.ca) for clearance if you are selling or buying a home with potential electrical issues.
Most standard sized homes built prior to the 1960's were equipped with a 60 amp electrical service. This size of service was reasonably well suited to the needs of living at the time. However, the search for convenience and enhanced lifestyle has generally increased the demand on the electrical systems of homes today.
A common misunderstanding is that the ampacity (size, or capacity) of a home's electrical service is determined by checking the main breaker or fuses or the rating imprinted on the panel. This method of determining size is fraught with problems as the ratings of breakers, fuses and panels may correlate to the size of the electrical service, but in many cases they don't. The panel could have been upgraded without upgrading the service wires.
The size of an electrical service is established by the ampacity (capacity) of the incoming service wires. The only reliable method of determining the size of the service is to observe and correctly identify the size of the incoming wires and the related equipment (mast, meter base, etc.).

A 60 amp service will, limit the number of appliances that can be used at any one time. For safey and practical purposes the adequacy of an electrical service should be judged against the size of the potential or expected load it will be required to carry. One indication of a service that is undersized for the demands applied to it is the blowing or popping of the main fuses or breaker switch. If the service is undersized for the current demands, increasing the size of the service is one option.
KNOB AND TUBE wiring is a type of wiring which was in common use until the 1940's and sometimes used as late as the 1950's. The nick-name is derived from the ceramic knobs that are employed to insulate and secure the wiring runs and the ceramic tubes employed to protect the wires where they pass thru potentially abrasive materials (primarily wood joists, studs etc.) Unlike subsequent wiring systems where all the wires in a run are enclosed in a cable, the two wires (black/hot and white/neutral) run separately and only come together at a terminal (switch, receptacle, fixture, junction box etc.).
Knob & tube wiring does not provide a third wire for grounding and is therefore considered unsafe in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and outdoors. In other areas, knob & tube wiring that is in good condition with sheathing intact, properly protected from damage, and that hasn't been subjected to extended periods of overloading which can cause it to become brittle, should not pose an increased safety risk.
Aside from the preceding concerns, the primary risk with knob & tube wiring, it seems, is it's relative accessibility for amateur repairs, upgrades and maintenance. It is not uncommon to see a system with knob & tube wiring that has a history of amateur work (poorly joined connections, unfastened runs, unprotected wires, etc.). If a house does have knob & tube wiring wiring it should be inspected to ensure that it is properly installed and in good condition.
Note: Many older homes with originally installed knob & tube wiring have had some of the wiring upgraded. While modern wiring is visible in many areas, much of the knob & tube wiring may still be in place and concealed beneath floors, above ceilings and hehind walls.
If a few, but not all, of the circuits are in poor condition they can be replaced eventually without rewiring the whole house. However, if most or all of the circuits are in poor condition, it may be more economical to completely rewire the home. Rewiring can also allow the electrical system to be more convenient as the new circuits can be designed to accomodate the present lifestyle of the occupants of the home.

FIRST TIME BUYERS LAND TRANSFER TAX REBATE

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:13:20 -0600

First Time Buyers Rebate

Keeping on my path to help you save money this year ..... More help and money for First time buyers!!!
Land Transfer Tax (LTT) Refund for All First-Time Homebuyers!!!
In keeping with the government's commitment to help Ontarians who are starting out, it is proposed that the LTT Refund Program for First-time Homebuyers be expanded to include purchases of resale homes. This measure would be effective for agreements of purchase and sale entered into after December 13, 2007. As a result of this change, first-time homebuyers of newly constructed or resale homes would be able to receive a refund from the provincial government of up to $2,000 of the LTT paid.

Ontario's land transfer tax is imposed on the acquisition of an interest in land by registered conveyance or unregistered disposition. Every person obtaining an interest in land is liable to land transfer tax. The tax is calculated on the value of the consideration for the transfer. In certain circumstances the Land Transfer Tax Act (Act) deems the value of the consideration to be the fair market value of the land. The Act defines land to include the land itself, buildings, estates, options, leasehold interests and fixtures. Requirements to Qualify for a Refund
The purchaser must be at least 18 years of age.
Applications for a refund must be made within 18 months after the date of conveyance or disposition.
The purchaser must occupy the home as his or her principal residence within 9 months of the date of the conveyance or disposition.
The purchaser cannot have previously owned a home or had any ownership interest in a home, anywhere in the world.
A spouse of the purchaser cannot have owned a home or had any ownership interest in a home, anywhere in the world while he or she was the purchaser's spouse.

Click on the BUYER page of my website to calculate your land transfer tax payable www.SallyDollar.com If you are a first time buyer, ask Sally how to make sure you can get your Land Transfer Tax Rebate or Cash Back on your Mortgage..... I am committed to saving my clients money, ask me how!

Walkers Creek Neighbourhood - SOLD in 3 Days!

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 13:22:47 -0600

MLS® $229,900 Fabulous Family Home

"Traditional 4 Bedroom Center Hall Plan"

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage


Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

Details

Type: Residential Style: 2 Story "Traditional" Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 "One Full + 1 Half" Garage: Single, Attached Basement: Yes, Full "Finished Space" Size: 1,365 sq. ft. "plus full basement" Lot Type: Wedge Lot Size: 95ft x 168.99ft "Irregular Wedge Shape" Year Built: 1967 Taxes: $3,195.20 (2007)

Description

TRADITIONAL 4 BEDROOM 2 STOREY ON BEAUTIFULLY OVERSIZED LOT IN QUIET NORTH END LOCATION CLOSE TO PUBLIC AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND THE WELLAND CANAL. BRIGHT AND INVITING FAMILY HOME WITH HARDWOOD FLOORS, LARGE MAIN LIVING ROOM WITH WALL-TO-WALL WINDOWS AT BOTH ENDS, 1 1/2 BATHS, FRESHLY PAINTED IN NEUTRAL TONES, KITCHEN WITH BUILT-IN DISHWASHER & PLENTY OF CUPBOARDS, MASTER BEDROOM WITH WALK-IN CLOSET, ALL 4 BEDROOMS ON 2ND FLOOR. FINISHED BASEMENT WITH REC ROOM AND WORKSHOP/LAUNDRY DOWN. PARTIALLY FENCED AND HUGE BACKYARD IS AN OASIS WITHIN THE CITY!

Features

Interior Features

▪ Hardwood Floors

▪ Laundry Room

▪ Window Covers

Cooling

▪ Central Air

Exterior Finish

▪ Aluminum

▪ Brick

▪ Siding

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Appliances

▪ Dishwasher

▪ Hood Fan

▪ Washer/Dryer Hookup

Lot Features

▪ Front Porch	▪ Garden Area	▪ Lawn
▪ Patio	▪ Trees / Shrubs

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:21:02 -0600

I hope everyone has recovered from their night of celebrating our new year! I am excited to begin this year with the same momentum that 2007 brought. Winter is typically a quieter time of the year for real estate transactions, and this year, in-between sales, I am continuing my education to bring my clients the best and most up-to-date information! I am thrilled to share this information with you and begin saving you all money and time!

HERE IS THE FIRST LOOK AT HOW USING SALLY DOLLAR AS YOUR REALTOR CAN SAVE YOU MONEY! I can offer you local information and contacts to help you get started saving money and helping our environment at the same time.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Jurisdiction: Federal
Action area: Home renovation
Dollar value: 10% of the cost of CMHC mortgage insurance (e.g., approximately $275 for a $100,000 mortgage with a 5% down payment, or approximately $85 for a $20,000 mortgage for renovation)

CMHC offers a 10% premium refund on its mortgage loan insurance premiums, as well as extended amortization to a maximum of 35 years (subject to lender availability), to individuals who use CMHC-insured financing to purchase an energy efficient home, purchase a home and make energy-saving renovations, or renovate their existing home to make it more energy efficient. The refund is a one-time payment.

For home buyers, the refund and extended amortization are available

· when a house meets the requirements of one of the following programs: R-2000 (national), Built Green Gold label, Power Smart New Home Program (Manitoba), ENERGY STAR® for New Homes (Ontario) or Novoclimat (Quebec);

· when a house has an EnerGuide for Houses rating of 77 or above;

· when a house with an EnerGuide for Houses rating of less than 77 is renovated to increase the rating by at least five points and to a value of at least 40; or

· when, for a condominium unit, the building meets the requirements of the federal Commercial Building Incentive Program (in which case a letter attesting to this must be obtained from Natural Resources Canada or the project engineer).

The refund is also available for CMHC-insured REFINANCE mortgages for the purpose of making energy-saving renovations to houses with an EnerGuide for Houses rating of less than 77. The renovations must increase the house's rating by at least five points and to a value of at least 40.

Extended amortization is available through participating lenders for all new CMHC mortgage insurance applications approved as of January 2005.

For more information visit: http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/moloin/moloin_008.cfm

How to obtain this incentive: First, obtain:

· the necessary certification or CMHC declaration from a builder who is R-2000 certified or a member of one of the provincial programs mentioned above;

· EnerGuide for Houses ratings; or

· a letter attesting compliance with the Commercial Building Incentive Program; and

· the new or refinanced CMHC-insured mortgage.

Then complete the refund application form available on the Web site and send it to the address or fax number provided.

IF YOU OWN A HOME AND ARE THINKING OF RENOVATING;
Step 1: Obtain an energy rating for your home

If you plan to use CMHC insured financing to make energy-saving renovations, a 10% mortgage loan insurance premium refund may be available.

Contact an NRCan qualified energy advisor to obtain an energy rating for your home. If the rating is below 77 you will receive a list of straightforward recommendations to increase your score (77 rating is effective July 27th, 2005. A rating of 80 is required for purchases and renovations occurring on or after November 18th, 2004 and until July 26th, 2005).

Step 2: Discuss CMHC insured refinancing

Talk to your lender or your financial institution about which options are available to you.

Step 3: Improve your rating

Using your energy advisor's recommendations, renovate or upgrade to increase your energy rating using CMHC insured funds. You'll be amazed at the difference a more efficient furnace, better insulation or simple draft-proofing can make. Not only will you be reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but you'll also see welcome reductions in your monthly utility expenses.

Step 4: Confirm the improvement

Your energy advisor will assess your home again after the energy-saving renovations are finished. If this test shows that the house's energy rating has improved by at least 5 points and has achieved an overall rating of at least 40, the 10% premium refund may be available.

Step 5: CMHC 10% Premium Refund

SOLD Niagara Falls Ontario MLS® Great Investment

Sally Dollar (Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 08:37:30 -0600

Virtual Tour

"Handyman Special!" More Photos »

Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage


Sally Dollar
Email Sally

Phone:	905-937-6000
TollFree:	1-866-999-9497
Cell:	905-937-6000
Fax:	905-935-8215

HOW LOW CAN THE PRICE GO!!!!!!!

Details

Type: Residential Style: 2 Story "With front porch" Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 "4 piece bath" Basement: Yes, Full "Unfinished" Size: 1,300 sq. ft. "Just over 1300 sq.ft." Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 28.5ft "150 Feet Deep!" Taxes: $1,658.69 (2007)

Description

Large 3 bedroom 2 storey in the heart of downtown Niagara Falls. Open concept layout on main floor. Large eat-in kitchen with ceramic floors. Huge fenced backyard. Renovations were underway, but are incomplete and need finishing. Great investment property for a handyman. Buyer to verify measurements, taxes, rental equipment - property being sold "as is"

Features

Exterior Finish

▪ Vinyl

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Roof

▪ Asphalt Shingles

Lot Features

▪ Fenced Yard

▪ Front Porch

Heating

▪ Forced Air

▪ Natural Gas