new traffic laws ontario

Ontario’s New Traffic Laws

Ontario’s new “Making Ontario Roads Safer Act” (Bill 31) will come into effect September 1st creating some new rules for driving and stiffer penalties for breaking them. Distracted Driving Looking at, texting or talking on your phone while driving currently incurs a fine of approximately $200.  As of September 1st Fine:  up to $1,000 and 3 demerit points. Drivers […]

Closing Costs

You should allow at least 1.5% of the purchase price for closing costs although I recommend approximately 2% to be on the safe side. These may be made up of the following fees: Legal Fee and Disbursements A lawyer will charge a fee for their professional services involved in drafting the title deed, preparing the […]

Does your House Smell like Cigarette Smoke?

Author: Kristina Bradley A recent survey of 401 Ontario real estate agents and brokers found that most agree that it is more difficult to sell a home where owners have smoked. The survey estimates a potential loss of up to $107,000 on a home in Ontario, where the average price is currently around $369,000–or a whopping 29% loss […]

Getting Your House Ready for Fall!

Fall is upon us! Before the weather gets too bad here are some home maintenance tips that will keep your home running well all winter long. EXTERIOR Check the foundation for cracks and caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding or where pipes and wires enter the house. Another area to check is around the windows and […]

Don’t Call the Agent on the Sign

Don’t Call the Agent on the Sign As a buyer it costs you $0 in commission to buy a house.  The commission is totally paid by the Seller. It would make sense then to have your own representative who’s single purpose is to represent your best interests.

Setting the Price Too High

Setting the Price Too High Compare, compare, compare.  Selling prices are set based on what comparable homes in your neighborhood have sold for, this is called “Market Value”.  The biggest mistake you can make is to price your home too high, have it sit on the market and become “stale” and then have to reduce. 

Failing to Showcase Your Home and Making Small Cosmetic Changes

Failing to Showcase Your Home and Making Small Cosmetic Changes   Look at your house from a buyer’s point of view.   Minor cosmetic changes or enhancements could increase the sell price and decrease the number of days your house is on the market. Consider hiring a professional stager to come and arrange your furniture. It’s all […]

Before You Start Your Search

What Features Do You Need? Do you need an extra bathroom, a garage, a fenced backyard, or lower utility bills? Do you want a fireplace, a short drive to work, or maybe minimal yard work? Once your list is complete, decide what’s most important to you. What’s the Ideal Location? Where you live obviously affects […]