Toronto Real Estate Blog - Toronto Commercial and Residential Real Estate

Death of the Euro (or Wake Up and Buy North American Soil)

2008-04-18T07:07:54Z

Prepare, prepare, prepare!

Global Markets are showing their weaknesses.
Europe is having a very hard time maintaining steam. In a short few years, we will see Local Currencies returning and countries tied into the Euro, devaluating their currencies in order to adjust and survive, just like the good old days.

My advice:
- Dump the Euro and Buy Dollars!
- Buy Real Estate In North America!
- Buy now that everyone is dumping...

Did your stocks take a dive in 2000? Remember that feeling seeing your dollars shrink? Well, here it is again... This time in a real estate format the least.

Everyone shouts: WE ARE LOOKING FOR GREAT REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES!
My answer: HERE IT IS! Take advantage of it now! Buy America!

HERE IS A BETTER ONE FOR YOU: Buy Canada! The most stable nation in the G8. The Country attracting most investment in the G8.

And, with the development of Alberta's Oil Sands, guess what: CANADA WILL BE THE RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD! Just Like the Middle East, without the dessert! Wake up!!!

They say: NO ONE LOST BY BUYING REAL ESTATE! IT IS TRUE! (always depends on which side you're on...)

Wake up World! Buy American Property! Buy Canadian Property! It's Cheap! North America is here to stay!!!

Fight 100% Land Transfer Tax Increase

2007-06-26T21:35:14Z

Ask Clients to Fight 100% Land Transfer Tax Increase

Stop Toronto Land Transfer Tax: Your Help is Crucial

June 2007 -- Your help is needed! The City of Toronto wants to charge a second land transfer tax that would NOW double the current provincial land transfer tax. This could impact real estate markets, YOUR business, and YOUR CLIENTS. The proposal is moving forward quickly so it is critical that City Council hear from REALTORS® NOW. City Council will vote on this in mid-July.

Options to Help Fight Toronto Land Transfer Tax

1. Encourage your clients, friends, family and colleagues to email the Mayor and City Councillors with their opinions. It is VERY important that the Mayor and City Councillors hear from REALTORS® AND the general public. As a REALTOR®, you likely have many contacts that will be impacted by this tax who may appreciate being informed. CLICK HERE and an email that you can send to your contacts will be opened with a message that will include a link to make it easy for them to email the Mayor and City Council (You only have to add your contacts' email addresses). Alternatively, you can click here for a flyer that you can print to hand out or download to email.

2. TREB is asking you to once again send an email voicing your concern about this proposal to the Mayor and all City Councillors by CLICKING HERE (even if you previously sent an email)

• (An email with the Mayor’s and all City Councillors’ email addresses already added will be opened. You just have to add your opinions and send the email). Once you have sent your email to Toronto City Council, see below for information on other ways you can help.

3. Send an email to your MPP: Click here to go to OREA’s special web site that will look-up your MPP and supply you with an already drafted letter to email telling them to take action.

• OREA is assisting TREB’s efforts on this issue by asking all Ontario REALTORS® to send an email to their provincial politicians. The provincial government has the power to intervene on this issue and prevent the City of Toronto from imposing this tax.

4. Attend the Toronto City Council meeting in July:

City Council is scheduled to vote on this proposal at their meeting scheduled for July 16, 2007. Anyone from the public is allowed to attend this meeting to OBSERVE (As previously noted by TREB, public deputations were heard by the City's Executive Committee on June 25th, 2007). It is important that the public gallery be full with people concerned about this proposal because this helps to send a strong message to City Councillors and the media that the public does not want this tax. TREB encourages you to attend this meeting and to inform your clients about it.

Meeting Details:

Location: Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen Street West, Council Chamber
Date/Time: July 16, 2007, 9:30 a.m. - Please note that this is the start date of the City Council meeting, but these meetings often run for multiple days and it is not yet known at what point the land transfer tax item will be debated. TREB will provide more detailed information once it becomes available.

More Information

Under the City’s proposal, Toronto homebuyers would have to pay a second land transfer tax at rates identical to those currently charged by the Province, as follows:

0.5% up to $55,000
1.0% for value between $55,000 and $250,000
1.5% for value between $250,000 and $400,000
2.0% for value above $400,000

TREB has been fighting against this proposal.

06/26/07

Note to users: Although TREB endeavours to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of information, it is not guaranteed. TREB accepts no responsibility for any loss arising from any use or reliance on the information contained herein.

IT's Not The LEAD. It's What You Do With It!

2007-06-24T23:53:16Z

Wow!

I am at a stage many would only dream of...

- 100+ qualified leads a day and increasing daily!
- Google Ranking without paying a cent!
- Exposure and Referrals have started to flow my way.

But there is one thing I have a problem with: WHAT TO DO WITH THEM!

The realities I face on a daily basis:
- Agents are not motivated enough to work
- Can teach an old dog new tricks
- Clients want fast action but agents can't handle it!

I have come to realize that Converting a LEAD is the MOST important step and there is difficulty in this!

Those with multiple teams and leads, PLEASE HELP:

- How does YOU handle A lead in the best manner?

- Is a TEAM the Best Way To Go?

I Appreciate Your Comments.

Toronto Real Estate Market update - Toronto Housing Market Reaches New Heights!

2007-06-05T11:44:27Z

Toronto Housing Market Reaches New Heights!

June 5, 2007 -- With an astonishing 11,146 sales in May, the Toronto Real Estate market put in its best performance since records have been kept, President Dorothy Mason announced today. "The Toronto Real Estate Board has been tracking the local housing market for over forty years, and there has never been a month that even approaches this level of activity," Ms. Mason stated. "May was up 18 per cent over April, our previous record month (9,452 sales), and also up 18 per cent over May of 2006 (9,434 sales), which now ranks as the third highest sales total recorded."

Ms. Mason further noted that, according to statistics compiled by the Canadian Real Estate Association, every home sale generates about $27,000 in economic activity (for renovations, furniture purchases, and so forth) over and above direct expenditures involved in the transaction. "This means that Realtors® and their clients have contributed over $300 million to the local economy in ancillary costs last month alone."

However, while sales sky-rocketed, price increases were restrained, with the average rising a mere five per cent to $382,787 from the $365,537 recorded during May of 2006.

Breaking down the total, 4,175 sales were reported in TREB's 28 West districts and averaged $356,836; 2,038 sales were reported in the 14 Central districts and averaged $506,172; 2,323 sales were reported in the 23 North districts and averaged $408,391; and 2,610 sales were reported in TREB's 21 East districts and averaged $305,168.

(Gracefully reposted from the Toronto Real Estate Board)

OwnHomeShare - New Vacation Concept! Join us for the Next Sale: July 1, 2007!

2007-04-20T06:42:31Z

Now... Buying a Vacation Spot Anywhere in The World is Possible!

Welcome to OwnHomeShare^TM (OHS)

OwnHomeShare is a new, unique ownership concept that gives vacations and real estate a new meaning! It combines the best of the Recreational Real Estate, Home Ownership and Property Exchange.

Our clients, millions of people just like YOU, would love to own a small vacation property close to a sandy beach or on a mountain. Our clients hate paying large amounts of money to hotels. OHS gives you an alternative solution!

Our clients hate paying large amounts of money to hotels, while getting a room with no view, no kitchen and than can only sleep three (3). A family of four (most families have 4 members) will have to pay for two (2) rooms to be able to enjoy a decent vacation.

OwnHomeShare comes to correct this problem and give you an alternative solution! Keep on reading... You will absolutely love what we are just about to reveal to you!

Vacationing in a country like Greece, Italy, Turkey, Cyprus, Bulgaria and other Balkan countries, will cost a family of four between $5,000 to $10,000 a month or more, which includes accommodations and meals. The average room will rent from 40€ to 250€ a day, depending on the season and location. Your hotel bill will be anywhere from 1.200€ to 7,500€ a month! Meals are usually extra and dining out every day, 3 times a day can create a financial problem. (1€ = $1.35 US as of April 07).

We have a great offer for you!
Would you like to own a property that fits 4 or more, has its own kitchenette and bathroom with a shower? Do you like to spend summer or winter months at your property right on or close to a beautiful beach or on a mountain?

And how about this?
Do you want to own a property which you can transfer, lease it or rent every year, generate income or maybe even sell it after a few years for more than you bought it?

Or...
Are you interested in low cost investments? Buy a few properties and let us run them for you! Generate income that supports your lifestyle!

Also...
OwnHomeShare clients participate in our Unique Property Exchange network! One year you could be vacationing on the island of Corfu, the next in beautiful Mykonos and the year after sunbathing on a Black Sea beach in Bulgaria. By the easy, your property you own is near a white sandy beach in Crete...

Best of all...
Do you want to do all the above while receiving income from your investment? Just because you use OwnHomeShare, we lease out your unit for the months it is not in use? You will actually GENERATE INCOME from this property all year round!

This is what we call REAL ESTATE!There is only a finite amount of Land on earth. History proved that Land Values have always gone up and most likely will continue to do so in the future.

Your income pays off your property's maintenance fees, taxes and utilities and a portion of the leftover funds go into your bank account. OwnHomeShare will deposit money in your account every year, year after year! Spend it while you are in the country, use to buy another investment, or simply withdraw and use your money as you wish!

Income Guaranteed!

Too good to be true?
IT IS TRUE! OwnHomeShare is a unique ownership concept that gives recreational real estate a new meaning!

Buy Your Next Vacation Property from OwnHomeShare!

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT http://www.OwnHomeShare.com

Agents Welcome!

Beware Those Bearing Gifts!

2006-10-08T01:04:37Z

Here is what I received lately from multiple sources:

COORDINATE FOR MY CLIENTS IN AQUIRING FOREIGN PROPERTIES AROUND THE WORLD AND THE NEED HAS ARISE TO GET 5 VILLAS /COUTRY HOME FOR THEM. I SHALL BE REPRESENTING THEIR INTEREST BECAUSE MY CLIENTS ARE SERVING MINISTERS IN MY COUNTRY WHO WILL NOT WANT THEIR IDENTITY TO BE DISCLOSED FOR SECURITY REASONS. I GOT YOUR CONTACT FROM A FRIEND IN LONDON WHO ATTESTED TO YOUR WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE IN REAL ESTATE. WHAT WE WANT IS A PROPERTY WITH MINIMUM OF 4 BEDROMS. ADDED SWIMMING POOL WILL BE A PLUS BUT NOT MUCH NECESSARY WHILE OUR BUDGET IS WITHIN 500/850,000$ PER VILLA. HOPE TO READ FROM YOU AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
REGARDS
SULEYMAN JOHNSON

Be alert. Up to now, we've seen these in our spam email. Well now, these threats are real! Peopel are actually replying! I played along with one of them and their ways are really interesting, if not scary. Money laundering and scam artists operating under the radar. In my last job, I was Information Secuirty Manager for a large Bank. I had never came so close to one of them...

Why Sign a Buyer Agency Agreement? Lesson Learned...

2006-10-08T00:56:04Z

OK... I just have to get this off my chest. I need to feel better and learn the lesson.

And here's the story.

I was working with a Pakistani client since December 2005. In January, we signed a Buyer Agency Agreement that was valid for 90 days. Although I forgot to renew it, we kept on working till beginning of September. My service to them continued non stop for months, most of the time on a daily basis.

My client's requirements were quite difficult to satisfy: find a place to accommodate all 10 members of the family, the property had to be new or fixed up and close to the 600K range. Well, we spent a lot of time seeing properties with no luck. I advised the client to raise their price and we started looking in the 800K range.

I must have shown them 50 homes or more because they wanted to see "everything", big and small, knockdowns, two side by sides, new construction and land. I worked my ass off and usually had to visit them after 11 pm at night because the family came back from work too late. I spent hours and hours away from my family in order to accommodate their needs.

Evenutally we put in 4 offers on cetain properties. They signed the Buyer Agency Agreement in January 2006 for 90 days. We attempted an offer on a property in February 2006 with no luck. The price was too high. The client was still under contract. The 4th and last offer we pursued was in the beginning of summer but as mentioned the Buyer Agency hadn't been renewed.

After the house came off the market, and while officially we were still looking for properties and emailing and calling each other back and forth and she is telling me "find me a property", they went back privately to the 2nd house we had put in an offer, and bought it straight from the Seller! The same property we had made the offer on...

Even with hundreds of emails, of confirmations, of showings, of logs of what we have seen, of offers on properties we pursued, because I forgot to renew one stupid little piece of paper (everything else was signed properly), I cannot claim the $21,000 of commissions owed and I have to bite the bullet...???!!!??? Where is RECO justice in this country? Pif...

Well, I promise you thing: NEVER AGAIN...

Lesson Learned
Make sure your Buyer signs the Buyer Agency Agreement! You never know when the client will screw you...

Personal Feelings
Is the job and time of a Real Estate Saleperson not worth anything?

Solution
The Buyer Agency Agreement should be mandatory

Thanks for your time... I feel better now... :-)

Well, life goes on... doesn't it?

Want to be a Renovator? (or the answer to "why you should contract your renovation out")

2006-10-07T21:46:06Z

Today I am going to offer small advice to "amateur renovators" (can there really be such a bread of creatures?) taken from personal experience (feel free to add you own tips and stories):

1) Estimate the renovation costs.
This is the most difficult task to accomplish.  What are the prices of material? How much money will I need? How much time will I need?  What is expensive and what is a good deal?
If this first task is too difficult for you to accomplish, do yourself a favour and contract the job out.  You will gain years of life at the end...

2) Can you do the work or any part of the work yourself?
Always factor your time in the expenses! If you can make $100 doing something else, do it and contract out your renovation to someone else.

3) Choose a smaller supplier
They are way more thankful store owners than Home Depot at which you find your neighbor (you know who) giving you "expert advice"! If they were seriously good in plumbing and electrical, why wouldn't they been doing the job instead? Save yourself a buck and let the contractor run 10 times to pick up nails and glue and cement and annything else they need...

4) Pay for all your permits
... or do us a favour and cover those windows. Large and heavy renovations should be approved by the city or they will come after you, even years later... It is wise if your left hand does not to know what your right hand is doing.

5) Licensed vs non-licensed trades
When in doubt, play it safe!

6) Use a competent real estate agent
Not all agents are the same. Find one who understands your goals and can help you through.  Not all renovations pay...

And some quicky-tips:
- Demolition is somewhat easy as long as you know where to stop...
- Get cheap labour from hotels and coffee shops early in the morning
- Cleaning up is also easy. Dump the garbage yourself...
- Protect your bins! Neighbours tend to think you won't mind if they dump all their garbage in your bin.
- Never ever pay by the hour, unless you are an SOB and every hour of every day you'll stand above their heads!
- Always ask: "...and when will it be done by?"
- Always get a serious answer to the question: "what happens if it's not ready by then?"
- Why not? Sign a contract!
- Take a video and before - after pictures
- If you do not want receipts and pay under the table, at least take a video of the contractor working.  When at court later, you can at least prove that the idiot actually worked for you and "it is his fault your honour"...
- Gather all receipts.
- Do some calculations and see if it is worth your time and effort. Ask yourself: should I do this again?
- Work with a competent agent that can advise you all the way through

I invite you to briefly tell us our horror story!

Help us learn... No need to reinvent the wheel...

Security For Corporate Users - Its a Security Jungle Out There! Part 2 of 4

2006-09-29T07:53:00Z

CORPORATE USER SECURITY

Security Risks

Corporate users and those working in real estate offices are exposed to more serious security threats than home users. They are also responsible to maintain and follow corporate polices as implemented by their company’s security groups.

Smaller companies unfortunately do not have the capacity to employ a security group and most security controls are missing. Most owners’ security awareness goes as far as Antivirus on the desktop and possibly a hardware firewall/router at their Internet gateway. Hardening steps are non-existent and default passwords have never been changed.

The company relies on its employees to protect and safeguard Confidential and Internal information. The use of portable devices, such as laptops, USBs, CDs, DVDs, Palms, Smart Phones, has introduced new risks to corporate data. Once the employee walks out the door, corporate data leaves with the employee and is now susceptible to loss and theft.

Social engineering is on the rise again and dumpster diving a real threat.

So what are the basic steps to security every employee should know?

Familiarize yourself with your company’s security policies.
- Most companies’ policies are posted on the internal network and available to you. Make sure you review the
  security policies when you are hired. Employees are held liable for security ‘misconduct’.

Be alert for security breaches and report security incidents
- ‘Out of the ordinary’ behavior is an indication of a possible security problem. Ask for guidance. Always keep
  your security officer’s phone handy.

Handle corporate and client information with care
- Corporate and client information is for internal use. Once taken off premises, it becomes confidential and
  should be encrypted. The company trusts this information in your hands. Do not use it for personal purposes.
  Do not share Corporate information.

Secure portable devices and storage media
- Do not store corporate information on such media. Ask for an encryption program to protect the information.
  Do not share your company’s laptop. Do not plug them on your home network without proper protection.

Use email and other software tools only for business use
- It doesn’t matter if you receive unwanted email. Don’t forward jokes and other material. Anything you write will
  be held and used against you if necessary years later.

Find out and use corporate data destruction policies
- Destroy data off media prior to shipping outside of the company. Keep or destroy hard disks when the
  computer is decommissioned.

- - -

Canada’s Privacy Officers may enforce penalties of up to $100,000 to companies that do not take the basic precautions to protect customer data (personal and financial data). We have all seen our top Canadian Banks in the headlines for stolen client information. Yours and mine. This is the sort of publicity any company does not want.

For a minimal investment, security companies can guide you through the process of securing your data and implementing the exact amount of security your company needs. Seek the advice of a security expert!

Security is Insurance !

Buyer Tip #1 - Reasons Buyers use to lower Purchase Price - Add yours...

2006-09-23T22:52:26Z

What are Buyers mostly negotiating for
(% of buyers who would negotiate money off the purhase price)

1.
Roof needs replacement (usually $3000-$7000)

2.
Electrical Systems are not built to code (replacement cost from low $1500 to many thousands)

3.
Dampness, rot and mould (suprisingly low in importance - maybe because not easily identifyable!)

4.
Length of leasehold (shorter terms preferred - many want easy out)

5.
Fence dispute (although most cases I have seen its a deal breaker)

Added from comments:

6. Flooring

7. Simply want a better deal

- - -
Let's educate our clients:
In your experience, what other important issues have you seen Buyers using to lower their purchase price?

Is it scorrect for Buyers to lower the price because of decoration? What's your advice?

Security for Internet Surfers - It is a Security JUNGLE out there! Part 1 of 4

2006-09-23T15:50:46Z

(I wrote these series about a year ago for a magazine)

The widespread use of the Internet, along with mobile and wireless technologies (PDAs, Laptops), make access to corporate data and information transportation easy and affordable.

This fact also introduces many risks that never existed before. Easily identifiable risks are:
- Identity theft
- Data and information theft
- Malicious attacks against your PC, network or website
- Viruses, spam, Trojans and spyware
- Hacking and phishing attempts
- Denial of-service (DoS) attacks, and even
- Organized crime.

All the risks noted above, as well as the potential for careless mistakes and user errors, may result in serious financial and reputational damages to your company. Somehow these risks are closer to your business than ever before!

“It’s a Jungle Out There…” is a series of easy to follow technical articles that will provide you with security best practices in a way that are simple to follow.

Deciding to follow even just a few of these simple steps will better protect your systems and bring you way ahead of the pack.

PART 1
HOME USER SECURITY

Security Risks
There are many risks home users are exposed to:
- Home users are somehow unaware of the dangers using the Internet
- They install unreliable or malicious software on their computers (knowingly or unknowingly)
- The Software and Operating systems, be it Windows or Mac, are usually out-of-date
- Internet users are exposed to pornography and undesirable media and information
- They allow uncontrolled use of computers by children, friends, etc.
- Use of home computers for business activities, exposing corporate data to these hazards

#. Description of Task(s)
- What does this mean? Steps to take
1.
Keep your Operating System protection up to date. Don’t be fooled! Older versions are still vulnerable! So are Apple MACs.
- Enable the automatic download and installation of patches from Microsoft.
- Monitor other OSs for patches through their websites
2.
Install Virus, Spyware, Spam and Trojan protection software Antivirus alone will no longer protect your from the risks out on the Internet.
- Purchase a total solution and configure it to update daily
3.
Avoid opening email attachments from unknown sources (sometimes even from known sources!)
- ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ and will do so to your computer.
- The latest version of Outlook automatically protects you from harmful attachments.
- Most viruses propagate through email. Be Careful!
4.
Install personal firewall software or a router/firewall, if you have more than one computer connecting to the Internet
- Most broadband firewall/routers are ready to use out of the box.
- They are configured for basic protection. Enhance security by tweaking the settings.
5.
Backup your data and store the media in a secure place
- Use a floppy, a CD, a DVD, a ZIP drive, a tape drive, something!
- Software is easy to use and this task can be automated.
6.
Protect your data, passwords, credit cards and pins.
- Avoid storing them on Laptops, PDAs, USB drives and other portable media which can be lost easily
- Identity theft is the number one reported crime. It is a very frightening experience and difficult to repair.
- Use your personal data only on reputable websites but always be aware of “phishing” attacks (consumer fraud)
7.
Use hard to guess passwords and change them frequently
- Don’t use the same password for all your information!
- Minimize the risk by having 2 or 3 passwords.
- Keep the important ones close to your heart.
8.
Do not use illegal software or peer to peer sharing programs
- Files downloaded to your computer through these sources can be programmed to open holes and take over your system. Unfortunately, you will not know this happened until it’s too late…
9.
Check immediately any strange computer behavior
- ‘Strange behavior’ is usually a clear indication of security problems with your computer.
- Don’t wait for your yearly support call. Call an expert immediately.
10.
Hire a certified technician at least once a year to check, clean and speed up your computer again
- Computers are complex. Leave it up to a specialist (not your nephew!) to maximize your computer’s performance and guarantee your privacy protection.

SUMMARY
Security breaches can result in legal consequences and potential losses, including identity theft, fraud and physical theft.

Implementing just the minimum recommendations will have you well protected to live a healthy “online” life. And, if you are serious about security, a certified security expert will buy you PIECE OF MIND!

Happy surfing!

If you have any questions to ask, please post them Below...

Bridging the Gap between Tenants and Landlords

2006-09-21T08:08:45Z

Every landlord will pay a premium to purchase a property in which tenants will line up to live in. But, as a landlord, do you know what is important for your tenants? Is it the location? Schools? Transportation?

There is a gap between what a landlord thinks is important for the tenant and how tenants "buy" into a lease. Here is what your tenant thinks is important by priority:

Distance from public transport
Distance to shops
Local crime rate
Distance from work
Noise pollution
Distance from green spaces
Distance from restaurants or bars
Distance from social housing
Distance from sports or gym facilities
Distance from good schools
Prestige associated with street or postcode

Of course, these have nothing to do with the condition of the property which is as important as the amount of lease payments and terms.

Oh, and don't forget: happy landlords always have good tenants!

Business For Sale - Bay and Bloor - Cumberland Terrace - Downtown Toronto

2006-09-20T08:32:54Z

roperty Use Type: Business For Sale
Primary Type: Retail
Street Retail
Lot Size: 975 SF
Price: $49,900

Property Description:
Bloor-Yorkville Corridor - Very Strong Retail Block! Many Upper Income Customers In The Area.

Must Sell.

Cumberland Terrace Main Floor Unit At Bay Entrance On Path To Subway. Great Potential For Your Business! Small And Affordable 975 Sq ft With Large Storage Room and Private Washroom.

Scared Of Long Term Leases? Then, This One Is For You! Month To Month Lease. Low, Very Low Payment (Includes Gst+Tmi+Util).

Established Clothing Store Business Since 1996. Fantastic Upside Potential. Ready To Occupy. Stock Optional. Won't Last!

All Appts Thru L/B. Notice Commission 5%! Owner Wants To Sell Fast. Show With Confidence.

Location Description:
Bay Bloor - Cumebrland Terrace - Downtown Toronto Commission Split: 5% Additional Types: Retail (Other)
Regional Center/Mall

Highlights

• Successful Clothing Business • Downtown Toronto - Can't get any better!
• Cumberland Terrace Main florr exposure • Bay and Bloor
• Low, very Low rent!

Niagara Falls - Huge Lot - 3200+ Bungalow for Many Uses!

2006-09-20T08:28:55Z

NIAGARA FALLS BEAUTY!

Property Description:
HELP YOUR FUTURE WITH THIS! A Unique Opportunity to Open that Bed and Breakfast, Training Centre, Small Seniors Residence you have been waiting for! Compare to $600K+ or more!

Custom Built Bungalow Apprx 3200 Sqft on a 75'X 237' lot. Wake up to Breathtaking Niagara River Views.

Front Porch Overlooks Gorgeous River Rd. The Property Backs On To Tennis Court In A Sought After Neighbourhood. Only Steps To The Falls, Casinos And Shopping.

A Solid Home Custom Made Bungalow Built in 1960.

Potential For Bed & Breakfast. Or separate property into 3 areas and rent it out!

There are 2 Fireplaces in the house. It has bopth a Main Floor and a Basement Laundry.

Enormous Backyard &, you have to see this, a Separate Enclosed Private Court.

2 Car Garage W/ 10 Parking Spaces.

Don't Hesitate! Bring All Offers!

Location Description:
On River Road
Minutes from Near Niagara-On-The-Lake
In Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada
Steps to Niagara Falls and the Casinos Additional Types: Retail (land) No. Stories: 1

Location Highlights
• 100+m from Niagara Falls • Breathtaking Views of Niagara River
• Area Converting to Commercial and Mixed • New developments in the area for 2007-2008
• Huge lot and 3200 sqft building

Are Today's Home Buyers Set Up for Failure?

2006-09-20T07:35:58Z

We are seeing it across the world... A big chunck of those getting into Real Estate and home ownership today are not going to make it! It has become more difficult to stay into market as new, young buyers are insecure, over-taxed and debt-ridden.

New and Young buyers are strapped with increased expenses and living on a two salaries is just not going to cut it. Remember we used to talk about single salaried families. Weel, now two salaries in a family are not enough. Having two kids, two cars and with the increasing prices in food, gas, and insurance, no wonder we can't make it.

In England, a poll shows that all generations are concerned about the economic position of young people. A very large majority think that it is now more difficult for younger people to get started in life than it was for their parents. Only 11% think that today's young people find it easier.

But really why has it become so difficult? The Banks and Mortgage companies have made it so easy for new buyers! 0% down and the lowest interest rates in decades: all these 'gimmicks' trying to get people to enter the housing market have led to a huge increase of Power of Sales and Foreclosures. Look at the stats: in certain areas in Canada, the foreclosed rate has doubled since last year and, believe me, it will continue to rise! Hey, those with money, hold for a couple of years and you will remember me... Those who knew the stock market was going to crash in 2000, were patiently waiting. When things turns, almost "every" Internet investors money, simply changed hands. I am sure 90% of those reading this article, lost money in some sort of stock in 2000.

Mortgage Fraud! This is where the problem lies. It's everywhere. Do not take advantage of this. If you cannot make the mortgage payments, stay out of it.

Really... How good is a 30 year mortgage repayment over a 25 year repayment? How deeper in debt and interest payments cn you get? A great name for this plan may very well be: "MPF - Mortgage Payments Forever!"

I am not a doomsday believer. I simply believe it will get gradually worse. My advice: stay within your means! Hey, if you can't buy a house, DON'T. Big deal! Don't forget: the grass is not always greener on the other side Home Ownership has it's own problems!

Are Real Estate Trainers really important to our business?

2006-09-14T19:53:23Z

I get bombarded daily with email by all these real estate champions, real estate gurus, consultants and others that are going to show us the way to wealth and riches! (I wonder why they all turned to consulting....)

All these kits and packages and books and CDs and DVDs will make my life as a realtor simpler, better and more productive.

At some point, if I pay $13,000 to buy this famous program, I will make $500,000 this year. Guaranteed!
Come on... On the other hand, I might be wrong...

I seriously am calling upon your experience before I go spending my money trying to make it in real estate.

Have you used any program? Or method?
Do they really work?
What do you feel has given you the biggest bang for the buck? And why?
They all work but which one with 20% of my investment will give me 80% of return?

I want to know what sort of return on investment you have experienced!

I find that the internet real estate forums more than cover my needs. I can find almost anything I need.

All comments are appreciated!

Real Estate Prediction 2007: Expect The Best! Prepare For The Worst!

2006-09-12T18:24:46Z

I just heard this today (9/12/06) at a large RE/MAX conference in Toronto:

Real Estate Prediction: EXPECT THE BEST - PREPARE FOR THE WORST!

Also, heard that the US Real Estate market lost it's juice (no more speculation) but Canada will NOT follow suit this time around!

- What is your opinion? Do you agree? Are we to expect a lousy season this year? Or will it be next year?

- How should we prepare?

Charging Higher Commissions? When do you cross the line?

2006-09-07T22:15:20Z

OK So, I am a GREAT agent! The BEST salesperson! My skills are out of this world!

I find out that Mrs. Jane is selling her property and I happen to pick it up for sale. I recommend to list her property at market value or less. She agrees. What else could she do... She is not one of those smart a_s clients that know more than us...

I am almost positive that it will sell in a few days, if not in hours. You know this is the case... Eventually I have muiltiple offers. I am sure you too have been in this situation at least once. Wow, I am a HERO! THE BEST!

I cannot justify me as an agent making $10-20-30,000 in a day! Not that I don't like it but I see nuclear scientists making less! Or, once in Commercial... I closed a deal and made $100K within 2 months of work (aka 5 hours total). Do I seriously expect the client to come back?

DID I REALLY OFFER SERVICE OF SUCH VALUE? OR IS THE WHOLE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY SIMPLY OVERRATED?

Maybe my destiny is never to become a millionaire or an agent...

(Pls avoid talking about me, as some do. Talk about yourself, what you feel... This is the knowledge I seek.)

Discount Real Estate Brokerage - The way of the Future!

2006-09-06T23:40:08Z

I know I will be punished for this one but I seriously believe that what I call Discount Brokerage (in Real Estate, not in Trading) is the way of the future!

Starting off in the real estate field last year, I joined a new real estate company that charged $275 CDN for each trade. That's it! I did whatever I liked with my "extra" cash. Hey, I could beat the top agents in my area since people wanted a discount off my rate and I managed to make both of us happy!

I must admit that was sweeeet! It helped me start off on a good foot but the truth is it only lasted for a few months. Of course, things came to a standstill in December and then I started doubting myself and my decision to start this way.

I then decided to join RE/MAX. I thought to myself: hey, what the heck, I am going to work with the BEST, the #1! And I did, whole heartedly! And, don't get me wrong, I like it a lot!

There is one thing I understood very fast though! It is not the company you join or the marketing they offer: it is all about YOU! All the monies I pay to RE/MAX or any other company promote the company, NOT MYSLEF! And at the end of it all, it is all about YOU!

So, if you already have established your clientele and trust in your clients, I advise you to spare some of your cash and join a discount brokerage. Have faith in your abilities and make the jump!

BTW, when I joined the company I mentioned a year ago, I was number 77, now they are at over 440... and they are capturing a large segment of the market.

But, dear Brokers, your idea is not "copyright" or a "trademark", it has always been there... You cannot cap it and believe no one can compete against you.

Anyhow, Good luck guys! I wish you all the Best!

Is your real estate business suffering a slow death?

2006-09-06T23:15:22Z

Maybe not yet... But how do you know when it's coming?

Well, it is coming whether you like it or not. Lucky you, those that have milked the cow these past 5 years! The only thing positive in our lives is CHANGE! And, the #1s is becoming #100s and the opposite. Technology is going to transform us and our businesses and in the next few years, be ready or else...

So, how does one stay above water?

- Educate yourself! More and more not only about real estate but also learn about other fields that complement our business. Hey, it may be a good career move when everything slows down in real estate and you won't be paying your dues to your Board anymore

- Develop unique Internet Marketing programs. Don't believe David Liniger's comment (RE/MAX founder) that the "Internet is overvalued". Take from their example! Spend more on Internet. It's cheaper too... It makes you look smarter!

- Automate everything! When times get tough and you won't have money to pay your assistant, automating everything is the way to go. You can't be everywhere. Learn from the car companies: they save millions but letting go of staff and replacing them with computers.

I hear the next generation computers will work with liquid something or operate at the molecular level or think in a matrix. It's only a matter of time we will all have the computer that run space shuttles running under our desks.

Prepare, prepare, prepare!

Happy "Internet Leading"!

Fun Stuff - How the new REBBA Law and every other Canadian law is affecting our business!

2006-09-06T22:58:18Z

Don't get me wrong! I am a law-abiding professional... but do you know how many laws actually run the real estate business? TOO MANY to list!!!

Well, as I have always stated, Canada is "guinea pig" land. If it works in Canada, it'll be OK to implement across the world! Poor Canadians...

Coming out of a heavy IT background (talk about "experts" in IT - they are in the thousands - I still call them "power users"), I too thought of becoming a farmer.

Instead, I became a real estate agent. Don't ask me why... Maybe it was because my agent had actually made over $50K in commissions from all my buys and sells and I thought I could "punish him". I too got into the real estate business, wanting to go after the "opportunities" this business has to offer. "The sky is the limit" I heard...

Honestly, in my first few days as a real estate salesperson (not specialist, not professional, not consultant but salesperson - even secretaries are now called "administrative assistants"), I thought to myself there was no way someone could actually operate under so many bylaws!

The Real Estate Act, REBB Act, the Business Practices Act, the Advertising Act, the Family Act, the Condominium Act, the Consumer Reporting Act, the Consumer Protection Act, the Act to Improve Public Safety and to Increase efficiency in Building Code enforcement, the Bulk Sales Act, the Vendors and Purchasers Act, the Real Property Limitations Act, the Planning Act, the Code of Ethics, all the RECO, OREA, CREA, TREB By-Laws and about a page and a half or more acts, some with acronyms I will not even attempt to look up...

Are the Government and our "Lobbyists" serious??!!!!! I gotta get me some of that stuff their smoking... I think that that there are fewer Acts a doctor falls under for when making a mistake and killing his patient that those that surround the job of a Real Estate agent! I have to place my open house sign 30 cm from the sidewalk and 60 cm from a fire hydrant or else I get a ticket. What don't you give a ticket to the taxi drivers and the way they drive in order to get a customer...? Come on Boards and Govt. Give us a break... let us suffer only by the amount of competition we are facing out there... let us do our jobs...

"In my next job I plan to become a lawyer... I am almost half way there... I know half the laws out there... plus how difficult can it be? Many of them do not make sense..."

Anyhow, I am a law abiding citizen and a real estate professional, I actually run a business and I swear I pay taxes under my personal taxation!

Anyhow, Happy Commission!

Is the importance of Internet in Real Estate Overrated?

2006-09-05T12:00:00Z

The Internet has taken almost every business by storm! While certain businesses may not depend on the Power of the Internet, in our line of business, in real estate, Internet allows us to reach a myriad of Buyers and Sellers, our bread and butter.

Unfortunately, the opening of the MLS to the public has put a great strain on our industry. We do not have the competitive advantage of "proprietary" information anymore and instead we struggle to excel in Website development, Marketing, Media and a whole lot of other fields that really should complement our profession, not drive it.

It is time for a paradigm shift in Real Estate. Well, it will happen whether we like it or not...

As Internet is educating our clients, we can only try to take advantage of being in front of them as frequently as possible, with the information they require. This should be done with the most minimum amount of money possible, as ROI in IT in every other business is still being challenged.

Think like a business person and outsource what you do not understand. But do it! Don't just sit around and think that real estate is remaining a business that is conducted at a "personal level". It is not... at least for most Buyers out there...

Since we ourselves are undermining our own colleagues, we might as well expect to be part of the war out there... Trying to steal a client... a listing ... a mortgage... But having over 10,000 visitors to your real estate website and converting a percentage of them to clients is where the business will be.

Have you also noticed? Clients are not faithful anymore... Why should they be? The are on the Internet. They have the power in their hands and the knowledge in their heads to go straight to the selling agent. Most Buyers do not need a Buyer agent anymore...

Internet will be the medium that will change our industry. You see it every day. Look at the crazy number of real estate templated websites, blogsites, podcasts and who knows what other sites are poppinmg up and "relate" to our business.

Therefrore, since we can only be dragged into this game in order to survive, I will try to distinguish myself, my business, my offerings and my website to be better, be optimized, more resourceful and functional than yours...

...Hope to see you too on Google...

Find a good deal in Real Estate or How to Buy your Next House in 60 Days!

2006-09-05T11:18:17Z

Finding a good real estate deal is an art . You are looking for a seller who are motivated to sell below market value and this requires a lot of work and expenses.

This is a common problem to new investors: finding bargain properties. Many who start out in real estate investing quit without ever buying their first property. They go through the motions of looking for deals for a few weeks or months and then decide it doesn't work. They forget that finding motivated sellers is similar to the salesman finding his first customer . . . it takes persistence and hard work.

Finding a Motivated Seller
You can find good deals in any market and location. Don't look for property problems. Instead look for ownership problems. Time, money and a little bit of effort can solve any real estate problem.

Onwers ready to sell usually face problems. These may include:

Death and Divorce
Change in Interest levels
No prior experiemce with real estate
Bad tenants and problems
Money issues and foreclosure
Moving for various reasons (loss of job, immigrating...)

Farm The Neighborhood
We agents use a technique called "farming" to increase our business. Choose a neighborhood or a block and focus your marketing efforts in that area.

1. Familiarize yourself with the Neighborhood
Learn about the area, the style of houses and the prices. This knowledge will help you figure out when a property is a real bargain.

2. Visit Open Houses and FSBO properties
Visit as many open houses and "for sale by owner" (FSBO) properties. .

3. Vacant and Distressed Properties
Look for signs of vacancy: condition of the roof, uncut grass, no window coverings, mail and garbage sitting up front, etc

Once you find a property that interests you, work with a real estate agent to get a hold of the owner and help you in prepapring the offer!

Have a real estate agent you can trust and knows your goals! Don't make the same mistake as many flipping and changing real estate agents all the time. Fro most of us, once we know a client is serious, we tend to devote time, money and effort to make them happy!

Good hunting!

Increase in Power of Sales and Bank Sales!

2006-09-03T19:33:18Z

As mentioned in my previous post, this year I have noticed an increase in power of sales in Toronto.

Every two weeks I extract from my sources Bank sales, Mortgage Company Sales, CMHC and other financial institutions' sales and post them online for my buyers.

Do you know why this is happening?

Well, there are two major reasons responsible for the increase in Power of Sales.

First of all, more and more people cannot pay their mortgages. They have taken the plunge in to the real estate market and they cannot afford their mortgage payments anymore. Many were looking for real estate deals, while others tried to make money by renovating and flipping homes. They loaded up on debt and now they cannot handle it anymore.

Of course, there is a normal number of buyers that want to support a home but were never meant to be homeowners. Not working with a capable real estate agent that sort of qualifies you for a home might have also contributed to this mess.

Now, the second cause is closely tied in to the first cause we explained above, responsible for the increase in power of sales. The second cause is Mortgage Fraud! Well, I myself did not experience the times when everyone wanted to become a real estate agent (or was I part of it?)

On the other hand, it appears everyone is becoming a Mortgage Broker! Wow! The Banks saw their sweet profits being nibbled away from them and they jumoed into the same band wagon, mostly indirectly throught the mortgage brokers they worked with. Now, look at the mess they have created.

My advice for those with cash: HOLD ON TO YOUR MONEY! I foresee crazy opportunities in a year or two. I say this because 5 year mortgages are slowly up for renewal. These were given out in 2000 up to 2005. When the mortgages open for renewal, rhey are being hit with double the interest rate and guess what happens...

Stay tuned for more...!

2006 Toronto Housing Market Outlook

2006-09-03T19:30:34Z

As many, I have been monitoring closely the Toronto Housing Market outlook for 2006. I read new predictions coming out with the same frequency and accuracy as the weather channel. They can only predict the housing market up to next week.

I remember towards the end of year 2005, people were concerned that the housing market in Toronto and Canada was heading for a drop and crash.

And I ask: why are people thinking this way? Are the circumstances the same as in 1989? Same as in 2000 and Y2K? I don't think so. All the social and economic statistics we are fed daily lead us to believe that the market is not going to drop. I believe major world events will be to blame for such a real estate market reversal. These events would be the asian flu or a new war in the Middle East.

When the populations become unsettled, you start noticing a ripple effect. Certain markets expand and others contract.

My prediction is that home prices in Toronto will level off but the home values will be increasing steadily every year. Toronto is still a cheap city to live in. Have you visited Europe lately? Have you seen how expensive it is to live and buy real estate in Europe?

Of course, there are other indicators and facts, such as increased migration, inflation and rising interest rates that will always affect the purchasing power of many to buy a house.

I am particularly concerned with the increasing amount of people that are ready to lose their homes because they cannot afford their mortgages anymore.

The number this year has doubled. I see it in the Power Of Sale reports I produce every two weeks and they have increased in size. They have almost doubled.

Therefore, the Banks are hiding this fact and no numbers are really coming out to scare people.

If people don't know, then they are not worried... Everything else being equal, the canadian housing market will look great in the begining of 2007!