Jane's Walk - A Second Look at Regent Park
Published Date: Fri, 04 May 2012 21:19:00 GMT
Explore the Neighbourhood of Regent Park on Mary 5th 2012. For More information on Daniels Developments Visit us at www.suttonrealty.com
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Read full article...Realtor Quest May 2 & 3 2012 at Toronto Congress Centre
Published Date: Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:58:00 GMT
It's that time of year again ! Realtor Quest is Happening May 2nd and 3rd 2012 at the Toronto Congress Centre, South Building 650 Dixon Rd. Scroll down to see the Map for directions. May 2nd 8-530 and May 3rd 8-4pm Dont Miss Out !! Free Admission for TREB Members, 50$ for non TREB Members at the door. TREB realtors do not need to pre-register, non members however can pre-register at www.realtor-quest.ca
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Read full article...Affordable Homeownership Benefits Us All
Published Date: Sat, 21 Apr 2012 13:47:00 GMT
Toronto SUN Column (as it appears in the Toronto Sun) Affordable Homeownership Benefits Us All
April 20, 2012 -- Data from Canada’s most recent 2006 Census shows that more Canadians own their home than ever before, and like many of you, Greater Toronto REALTORS® believe in the many benefits of home ownership.
Achieving this milestone can be a formidable challenge for many people, as the current economic times make it more difficult to come up with a down payment, and requirements to qualify for mortgages continue to increase.
As well, there are added closing costs to consider, like the Harmonized Sales Tax and the Land Transfer Tax, which can significantly diminish affordability. Since they cannot be financed, home buyers must allocate funds, which could otherwise be used for a deposit, towards such closing costs. In turn, a more modest down payment reduces what home buyers can afford by limiting the amount they qualify to finance, and increasing mortgage payments.
Fortunately, down payment loans are available to help low- and moderate-income earners buy a home. In doing so, they improve lives, help home buyers build equity, upgrade the quality of their housing and achieve financial stability, often with carrying costs that just as affordable as renting. Helping others achieve home ownership can also translate into one less person in social housing or on a waiting list for such housing.
Since 1992, the City of Toronto, using federal and provincial funding, has worked with six non-profit partners to produce 1,143 affordable ownership homes, from detached houses to condominium units, in 22 of Toronto’s 44 wards.
A recently released study that examined the last five years’ results of the City’s efforts to facilitate affordable home ownership with its non-profit housing partners, offers tremendous insight into the importance of such initiatives.
The study–the first of its kind in Canada–was based on a recent survey that targeted 215 respondents who were renting, before they received government financing or indirect support through a partner organization’s financing, to purchase their current home.
Almost three-quarters of respondents who received such assistance said they would have been unable to buy without it. This strongly supports the view that a down payment is a major barrier for low- and moderate-income home buyers, and that down payment assistance does help.
The numbers also show that an overwhelming majority have found home ownership to be a positive experience. Some 78 per cent of respondents were even more satisfied with their home than they expected.
Among the highlights of home ownership that respondents cited were the ability to build equity, achieve greater financial stability, and enjoy higher housing quality. They noted positive changes with respect to personal privacy, physical health, personal safety and even their children’s school performance. This shows that home ownership has significant effects that are beneficial on a very broad scale.
Moreover, 43 per cent of respondents intended to improve their homes with an investment of more than $5,000 in the next five years, further producing positive widespread effects.
Greater Toronto REALTORS® applaud the efforts of the City of Toronto and its six partner organizations. Recognizing the important role that affordable housing also plays in relieving pressure on the rental market and providing affordable housing stock, government policies and incentive programs should continue to support home ownership. Doing so builds a better city for all of us to enjoy.
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Read full article...Toronto Houses Selling for 100% of Asking! What's the Deal?
Published Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:52:00 GMT
Toronto Houses Selling
for 100% of Asking!
Why So Little Room for Negotiations?
There's increasingly little room for price negotiations in good ole Toronto
these days with our homes selling at 100% of asking within 3 weeks, according to
the latest data.
The Toronto Real Estate Board released its mid-month resale housing
figures, which also showed prices were up in all sectors from a year ago, and
especially in single family homes.
Banks Fighting for Quality Mortgage Business by Cutting Mortgage Rates
Strong competition between home buyers in many parts of the GTA resulted in
sellers getting their asking price in a short period of time. In fact homes
are selling for 100% of the asking price, on average, suggesting that sellers
are very much in tune with the current market conditions and know the fair
market value of their home.
It also suggests buyers have little chance of scoring a deal below those
increasing values, in fact many buyers are facing multiple offer
situations. It just may be that more buyers are turning from the condo
lifestyle to the single family home option. With two of the top lending
institutions fighting for mortgage business, an offer of 2.99% on a 5 year
closed mortgage is definitely helping today's buyers increase their purchasing
power.
Some buyers aren't taking a chance that these low rates will be around in the
summer or that there will be any relief in house price increases.
While there is increasing inventory in the condo sector, builders are not offering
the same volume and variety on single family residential properties and there is only
so much of a supply in the single family house sector.
House Prices Up 9% from Last March
The average home listed in Toronto in February sold in 24 days! The
average selling price for transactions between March 1st and 14th was $502,155 -
up by more than nine per cent compared to the first 14 days of March 2011.
Listing inventory is currently low, if you are considering selling, maybe
this is the time to take advantage.
Full Report
Call for your Free Property Market Evaluation today or visit us at www.SuttonRealty.com
Over the Phone Market Values - 905-896-3333 / 416-896-3333
Browse our GTA Real Estate Listings at www.SearchTorontoHomes.com
Sutton Group Real Estate Toronto, Mississauga Offices
Toronto Real Estate Market Updates -
Keeping you Informed on House Prices and Trends
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Read full article...Direct Energy Backs Down on Hot Water Tank Contract Changes After Public Outcry - But Good Lesson When Selling Your House
Published Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2012 07:01:00 GMT
Toronto and GTA Consumer Voices are Heard! Direct Energy Backs Down.
After a public relations nightmare, Direct Energy backs down on their
water tank contract changes.
In
a statement issued late Thursday afternoon, the utility company said
it will not change "terms and conditions of our water
heater contracts" at this time. (Under the proposed agreement, if a contract was cancelled, the renter would have had to pay a buy-out fee of between $200 and $3,000, depending on the size and year of the tank.)
An
apology from Direct Energy hardly seems enough to those consumers who
felt forced to pay out their Hot Water Tanks prior to the proposed
changeover.
Currently,
if a heater is rented from Direct Energy, it can be removed at no cost, or for a
small fee.
Realtors
are still advised to ensure a clause is added to all offers
where there is an existing rental that either the Buyer agrees to assume the
existing Hot Water Tank Rental or that the Seller agrees to remove the HWT at
his expense prior to closing.
Whenever you buy or sell real estate you should
review all "rental/leased" items with your realtor. As a Seller, if your
furnace or your security system is being paid on a long term committment plan -
these items should be reviewed well in advance of any offers to ensure no
surprises happen on closing.
.
Address these items, in writing, in your Listing
and Agreement of Purchase and Sale if you wish to negotiate that the Buyer
assumes any of these responsibilities, otherwise ensure arrangements are made
for full payout.
Sample clauses for a Hot Water Tank Rental when Selling Your Home (can be edited to reflect a
Home Monitoring System etc):
Buyer agrees to assume the existing Hot Water Tank Rental Agreement with
Direct Energy in the amount of $______
or
Seller agrees to payout the existing Hot Water Tank Rental, at his
expense, prior to closing. The Hot Water Tank shall be in good working order
at time of closing and shall remain in the premises and is being included in the
purchase price.
These are just general sample clauses. Each situation is different and
consumers need to discuss which clauses/wording is right for their situation
with their realtor or solicitor.
Brought to you by Sutton Realty Your Toronto and GTA Real Estate Office.
If you have a real estate question in the Toronto or surrounding area call our offices at 416-896-3333 or 905-896-3333
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Read full article...Selling Your Home with a Hot Water Tank Rental - Know Direct Energy's Policies in Advance
Published Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2012 02:36:00 GMT
Direct Energy gives consumers extra month to change your water-tank policy. How does this affect your sale?
Direct Energy recently changing its rental water heater contracts to make it more difficult to buy a tank instead of renting, or to switch to another company. The original date of the switch over was April 1st, however after a public outcry the deadline was extended to May 1st, 2012.
Pat Foran the investigator for CTV reported the hotline set up by Direct Energy is so jammed with callers that there is a constant busy signal. At times, the hotline even seems to crash.
Currently, if a heater is rented from Direct Energy, it can be removed at no cost, or for a small fee. But on May 1, that will change.
Under the new agreement, if a contract is cancelled, the renter will have to pay a buy-out fee of between $200 and $3,000, depending on the size and year of the tank.
Who will be affected by Direct Energy's Policy Change? The change will affect approximately 600,000 customers, homeowners with water heaters older than seven to eight years.
If a heater is newer, it will not be affected. If customers signed up with Direct Energy after September, 2010, they're already in the new contract.
"We've changed our cancellation options. So if customers want to end their rental agreement they will pay a buy-out fee at which time they will own the equipment. Returning the used equipment to us is no longer an option," said Len Diplock at Direct Energy.
The company says most people who continue to rent from them will not see any additional charges. However, if a customer wants to stay with their old agreement they must contact Direct Energy. If they don't call or email, they will automatically be signed up with the new contract.
.
Important Tip when Selling Your Toronto Area Home:
.
If your are Selling Your Home, consider the possibility a potential Buyer may not wish to keep your existing rental and you could be faced with a large buy-out. Ensure you contact Direct Energy in advance to discuss your options and advise your realtor so appropriate clauses to cover this topic are added to your Agreement of Purchase and Sale.
.
If a Buyer agrees to assume your rental, ensure you spell out the monthly fee and terms so they are aware of what they are assuming. If as a Seller, you agree to the pay-out, get the exact amount from Direct Energy in writing so there are no last minute surprises on closing.
.
.
Toronto Home Buyers ask your realtor upfront if the home you are considering buying has a hot water and verify the status if owned or rented. Spell the status of the hot water tank in the offer so there is no confusion on closing.
To reach Direct Energy about the new contracts, call 1-866-202-1120, or email rentalterms@directenergy.com
Do you have a real estate question? Ask your local Realtor in Toronto 416-896-3333, Mississauga 905-896-3333
Our non-selling Managers would be happy to answer your questions.
Visit us on-line at www.SuttonRealty.com and www.SearchTorontoHomes.com
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Read full article...***Realtor Secrets: Why You Should Keep Your Home on the Market During the Holidays***
Published Date: Sun, 18 Dec 2011 20:48:00 GMT
During the holiday months our schedules are jam packed with shopping, cooking, baking, entertaining, cleaning, decorating and so much more. You may begin to wonder what the benefits are of taking your home off the market during this busy time.
It is natural to think that if you, the seller, are too busy with holiday preperations to host showings for your home, then the buyers must be too occupied to take the time to view it. It may even make sense to take it down in order to relist it as a new listing in the new year. New listing, new year- sounds like common sense.
Then why do Realtors advise that homes should be kept on the market and active during the holidays?
Tips That The Top Realtors Want You to Know:
• Buyers have more time at home to search for properties
• Some Buyers choose specifically to look for homes after the busy spring market, since now the negotiations will be less stressful
• Since activity appears to slow down, Buyers looking at this point are much more serious
• No need to move out during the holidays. Negotiate the closing date to be scheduled in the new year. You'll already be packing holiday decor anyway.
• Preparing your home for guests that the holidays bring is a perfect opportunity to showcase your home at its best !
Looking For More Information - Call Our Office Today and Speak With a Branch Manager!
Sutton Group Realty 905-896-3333
In
today's competitive marketplace get the edge with Sutton Home
Staging. Free Consultation - Discounts on Home Furnishings.
We'll
email you our before and after photos and you be the judge!
Its Dynamic Home Staging on a Dime!
www.SuttonRealty.com for a Free
Home Evaluation.
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Read full article...Toronto Condos For Sale! Stop Paying Rent! First Time Buyers Take Notice!!
Published Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:00:00 GMT
[photo:listing:51479357]
Absolutely Stunning
• 2 bath, 2 bdrm single story - $199,000 - Weston on the Humber
Weston/401, Toronto - Toronto Condos For Sale
Great 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit in Boutique Styled Building!
This building is sure to impress! Perfect price for the first time home buyer! Under $200,000 - it is time to stop paying rent and start building your future!
Laminate floors, tiles in washrooms,new kitchen, around 5 years old building, vacant, balcony, open concept
Easy access to the 401, TTC at the door and only minutes to Weston GO
Love to golf? So close you could walk to Weston Golf and Country Club and Crossroads Plaza.
For More information call Victoria 416-762-6829
Property information
Why rent when you can own this condo for as little as 5% down!
Looking For More Great Condo's For Sale visit us at www.SearchTorontoHomes.com
Thinking of Selling Your Toronto Condo - List with Sutton! Low Commission Plans - Free Staging Consultations.
Visit us at http://www.SuttonRealty.com for the latest Sutton Member Mortgage Rates - Its time to shop and compare rates to save!
Don't settle for the first rate you hear -- Every quarter point reduction can save you thousands over the life of your mortgage! http://www.searchtorontohomes.com
Sutton Realty Office 416 896 3333
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Read full article...Toronto and GTA Real Estate Market Update Report - Average House Prices up 5%
Published Date: Fri, 08 Apr 2011 21:54:00 GMT
Toronto Real Estate Market Update Report for March 2011
The Toronto Real Estate Board reported 9,262 transactions for the month of March 20111. This is the second best March result on record, yet its an 11% decrease from record results report in March of 2010.
But what most people care about is the actual average house prices. Are house prices in the GTA going up? Each month I think they will stablize, maybe even decrease slightly, however, each month we have to report they keep on climbing. The average house price for March for $456,147, which is up 5% year over year.
The strongest average price growth was reported for condominium and semi-detached homes, both home types were up approximately 7%.
The market continues to remain strong for the first quarter of 2011 based on a solid affordability picture and improving economic conditions in the GTA.
What real estate sells the quickest in Toronto to Mississauga? Location! Staged! Renovated! Buyers are willing to pay much more to get more! With banks tighting restrictions on financing, many buyers are opting for renovated, move-in ready homes to avoid any future line-of-credit requirements.
How are GTA Investors Doing? Our office has recently experienced a surge in rental inquiries as well from transferee's from across the United States. We are quickly filling our luxury investor condos with tenants and have a shortage of furnished units for rent on a short term basis under $2,000 a month.
For a complete update on the Toronto and GTA Real Estate Market watch the quick You Tube Video below - complete with comprehensive house price charts and graphics.
Have a Real Estate Question? Toronto Real Estate Office 416-896-3333
www.SuttonRealty.com -- www.SearchTorontoHomes.com
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Read full article...ONE OLD MILL Condos- Prestigious Tridel Is Coming To Bloor West Village / Kingsway Village!!
Published Date: Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:38:00 GMT
 One Old Mill - Tridel Brand New Condos
Old Mill And Bloor Condos- Near the Humber River welcome Tridel's newest addition to this gorgeous area. This is one of Sutton's favourite area. Located at the cusp of Bloor West Village. Steps to Old Mill Subway Station, only minutes to Downtown Toronto. Walk into this grand boutique style hotel - with a posh like hotel atmosphere. The lobby will be decorated with luscious and gorgeous materials to complement the classic furnishes. One Old Mill will be tucked away in Etobicoke's finest corner, but will have full access to the Gardiner Expressway; this will be serenity in the city. This Luxury building will offer a green roof, solar thermal panels, sky lounge, and private terrace. This gorgeous building will not last. A unique structure in this area.. It's been a while since this area has seen new development. units will not last!! There may be units available for assignment.    
Amenities at One Old Mill: Theatre Room, Party and Lounge Room, Private Dining Room with a prep kitchen, health and wellness centre, pool, whirlpool, steam room, yoga room, two additional guest suites.     One Old Mill is set to finish Fall 2013, while Two Old Mill will go on sale next year Call us if you would like to be updated. List Prices for Condos at Old Mill - Etobicoke. One Bedroom starting at $296,900 587 Sq ft (on 4th Floor) - Call us for the best value..
Prices at One Old Mill range from : $296,900 - over $1.8 Million
Parking: $30,000
Locker:$5,000 (not available yet) Call Us for Client Incentives.. They are selling out fast! This will be a Landmark in Bloor West ... An Investment into the future. Condos close to the subway line will always have value and based on the square footage the Old Mill prices are hard to beat in today's market. As downtown Toronto gets more congested and prices soaring Bloor West offers an great alternative. Easy access to downtown yet in a quiet quaint village feel. Mature neighbourhoods, trees and wonderful shopping - its the Best of Both Worlds. First Time Buyers on a budget still have a chance to get in -- Investors also have an opportunity to purchase a high end Toronto Condo close to the subway line ideal for attracting quality tenants. We're happy to provide more information on this unique neighbourhood. We also offer resale condos on Quebec and the Old Mill original phase if you love the neighbourhood and can't wait for a long closing. |
For More information call our Condo Department - our staff is full of knowledge and statistics on Toronto Condos.
Sutton Realty Toronto 416 896 3333
Thinking of Selling Your Toronto Condo - List with Sutton! Low Commission Plans - Free Staging Consultations.
If you have a vacant condo to sell - ask about our "Furnished Staging Program" www.SuttonRealty.com
If you are looking for a New Condo in Etobicoke close to subway just give us a call for our listing inventory list or browse through our resale properties at www.SearchTorontoHomes.com
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Read full article...
