Everything You Need to Know About Trees
Everything You Need to Know About Trees With the recent Ontario wide storm so many trees were toppled over and caused a lot of property damage. So we thought it would be a good time to talk about how to properly care for your new trees, if you’ve chosen to replant some of the […]
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot June 2022
The June 2022 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out! Market Snapshot: With more modest price increases in the resale market we saw a more traditional seasonal cycle for June. An increase of inventory allowed for more selection and less pressure on buyers. If you’re considering a move we’re here to help answer any questions […]
4 Great Ways to Invest in the Ottawa Market
4 Great Ways to Invest in the Ottawa Market Ottawa is a city with a variety of real estate in thriving, large neighbourhoods. In an appreciating market like Ottawa, real estate investments can provide significant financial benefits. There are a number of ways through which you can invest in real estate, each with its own […]
BIG vs. Smaller Real Estate Firms: Why We’re Ottawa’s #1
BIG vs. Small-Scale Real Estate Firms: Why Team Realty is Ottawa’s #1. Real estate transactions are some of the biggest and most significant financial decisions you will ever make. Whether you are buying, selling, or using real estate as an investment, ensuring you have the backing of a brokerage with tenured experience at hand […]
Beyond the Sign: Royal LePage Team Realty celebrates 20 years of serving the community
Over the past 20 years, everything has grown for Royal LePage Team Realty. Their families, the business, and Ottawa itself all look much different than they did back in 2002. What hasn’t changed is the team’s commitment to serving the community and helping Ottawans buy, sell, and lease properties. According to Royal LePage Team Realty […]
Buying Commercial Properties in this Economy
Buying Commercial Properties in this Economy Buying commercial real estate requires much thought and planning. After all; it could either be “home base” for your growing business, or simply a very large financial investment. As the market continues to diversify and expand, you may wonder how it could affect your ability to buy commercial […]
Giving Your Kids the Best Chance at Homeownership
Giving Your Kids the Best Chance at Homeownership With housing markets across the country skyrocketing in recent years, it’s becoming a challenge for up-and-comers and young families to plant their roots in homeownership. This is currently affecting younger Millennials the most, but Generation Z is beginning to experience the same roadblocks. The solution: many […]
Diversity is an Advantage in a Multicultural Ottawa
Ethnic Diversity Among Agents in a Multicultural Ottawa From coast to coast to coast, Canada is a beautiful country that residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring, many with hopes of putting down roots in their favourite corner of our home and native land. In a recent survey, Royal LePage found that newcomers represent a […]
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot May 2022
The May 2022 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out! Market Snapshot: Traditionally a high performing month, May’s resale market has shifted its pace in comparison to 2021. The aftermath of the recent derecho storm stirred up both Ottawa’s landscape and listing inventory. If you’re considering a move we’re here to help answer any […]
Why Summer is a Good Time to Buy
Why Summer is a Good Time to Buy “Summertime” means that the grass is at its greenest, the trees are at their fullest and gardens at their most vibrant. Although spring may be touted as the best time to buy, that doesn’t mean it’s the only time you’ll be able to do so. Summer […]
Beyond the Sign: The current market shift
After an intense few years, the local real estate market is showing a very slight shift towards calmer waters. Jason Ralph, Broker of Record and President of Royal LePage Team Realty, explains, “The market was so overheated that even a small shift seems drastic, even though it isn’t going back to pre-2020 levels. We are starting […]
5 Things You Need to Know About Buying in Ottawa
5 Things You Need to Know About Buying in Ottawa 5 Things You Need to Know About Buying in Ottawa: Ottawa is a beautiful city with much historical significance. The national capital region is home to a wide variety of diverse, thriving neighbourhoods that see growth each year. There are many schools and businesses […]
I Have Just Inherited Property. What Should I Do?
I Have Just Inherited Property. What Should I Do? Do Your Homework Inheriting property can be an exciting time in your life. There can also be mixed emotions depending on the circumstances. The number of older Canadians is growing. This has caused the most significant number of inheritances Canada has ever seen. This trend is […]
Everything you Need to Know About Buying Older Homes
Everything you Need to Know About Buying Older Homes Buying a 20th century home may fit your real estate needs, but there are many things to consider when exploring an older market. Buying an older home comes with numerous advantages. They are often less expensive compared to newer builds, with no construction required […]
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot April 2022
The April 2022 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out! Market Snapshot: With supply remaining under one month we continue to be in a seller’s market. Prices are continuing to climb but at a slower, more moderate pace than what we saw earlier in the pandemic. If you’re considering a move […]
Beyond the Sign: Moving time! 8 tips to help your move go smoothly
Beyond the Sign: Moving time! 8 tips to help your move go smoothly. Moving can be a daunting experience, especially if it’s your first time doing so. Whether you are planning an upcoming move to or within the city of Ottawa, there are certain steps that you can take to ensure that the process goes […]
Why summer is a good time to move…
Why summer is a good time to move… School’s officially out for summer! If you’re like us, you’re probably thinking beaches, holidays, cottages… any activity that will get us out to enjoy the warm weather…but it can also be a perfect time to move! While there might not be as much real estate activity in July as there is in May, it may surprise you to find out that June, July and August are busy months in Ottawa real estate, especially in recent years. The weather is fine and there are still a lot of great opportunities to buy and sell. Stats show that houses (and people) are making moves during the warmer months and many buyers and sellers are motivated to get deals done before the cooler weather returns. So what are some other reasons why summer is a good time to move? Home maintenance / House hunting If you are buying or selling during the winter, there might be things buried under snow that you can’t see or get access to if snow is a factor. It’s also nice to be able to open the windows and get fresh air while doing tasks like painting. Since you’ll be busy packing and preparing, you might hire a teenager who is looking to make a bit of cash for small jobs like mowing the lawn, weeding, babysitting, etc. Delegating small tasks will pay off big time. Garage Sales Do you really want to move that lamp you’ve had in the basement since college again? The answer is probably not. Getting rid of stuff you don’t want or need before you start packing will make your move so much easier (and probably cheaper too!). If you have children, encourage them to go through their books & toys as well, the thought of earning a few dollars is usually a great incen tive to purge! Bonus: whatever doesn’t sell is already out an organized making it easier to drop off at a local charity donation bin. Tip* Before picking a date, check to see if there is a neighbourhood garage sale planned in your area. Community garage sales like the Great Glebe Garage sale have caught on in other areas and tend to draw more “shoppers”. If that’s not an option you might talk to your neighbours to see if you can get a street sale happening, and don’t forget to ask for Garage Sale Signs from your Royal LePage Realtor! Weather This is a pretty obvious one, winters in Ottawa are notoriously cold and snowy. It’s much easier to move when you’re worrying about icy walkways and 3 feet of snow. You might find more willing volunteers to help with your move too, especially if there’s a promise of cold beer and pizza! Having said that, moving in 35 degree heat can also be pretty brutal, make sure you have plenty of cold water on hand and hire professional movers for the larger items. Your back and your friends will be grateful! Kids & Schools Changing schools in the middle of the year can be disruptive and unsettling for some children. If there’s moving to be done, you should try to move before the new school year starts. If older children are off to college or moving out, this might also be a great opportunity for empty nesters. The Ottawa area condo market has been booming in the last year, and there are great deals out there for those looking to downsize. Business is slower Unless you’re in the construction or tourism industry, most businesses slow down during the summer months, making it easier to book time off of work. Summer is a good time to move but don’t forget to take some time to enjoy the season. Making a move can be stressful in any season, but being organized and asking for help when you need it will help ensure a successful move. And when it’s all done you can enjoy a cold beverage and enjoy your new space!
Buying a Home: Step by Step
Buying a Home: Step by Step Buying a home can seem like a daunting task in the beginning. There are so many options to consider, let alone finding that dream home. You may be wondering what the main things to consider when you’re going to buy a house, and how the process works? With so much information surrounding the housing market, we’ve created a short step-by-step process to help you with all your home buying needs! Finances The daunting and confusing aspect of buying a home always lands in the finance department. Mostly because finances on a large scale become a stressful process for people. However, when it comes to organizing your finances to buy a home, it doesn’t need to be complicated or scary. Just keep these tips in mind: Determine what you can afford; remember that typically you require 20% down on your purchase. It is recommended that people look at homes that cost no more than 3-5 times their annual household income. Talk to mortgage lenders and your bank to determine your pre-approval status on a mortgage and ensure your credit score is in order Get prequalified and preapproved for a mortgage! Find the right realtor When it comes to finding the right realtor, remember that they are an essential partner when you’re buying a home. They can provide you with helpful information on homes and neighbourhoods that you may not know or may not be public information. Also, they are your communicator when it comes to making an offer on your dream home. Take your time and ensure you find a realtor that you’re comfortable with and has the knowledge and expertise that you need. The “House Hunt” Now the fun will begin! It’s time to go “house hunting.” You’ll spend plenty of time going over listings, scheduling showings, visiting open houses and ensuring that the homes you are looking for are what your future home should be. An easy way to narrow things down is to ensure that you have a list of wants and needs, so you know exactly what you’re looking for. You can also have your realtor set up a search for you, so you get the newest listings directly in your inbox (via realtor.ca) Don’t rush the process. You want to take as much time as you need to find the right home. Making an offer When it comes time to make an offer, your realtor will become your biggest advocate. Typically offers are contingent on financing, and home inspection. This contingency protects you by allowing you to inspect the home and either renegotiate or withdraw your offer without penalty should there be an issue discovered during the inspection. There are a lot of terms that are included in making an offer and how the seller handles the offer. Should the offer be accepted based on conditions (inspection, selling of your home, etc.) and all goes well, the house will be “conditionally sold” meaning it is sold pending the resolution of conditions. If a condition is that you must sell your home, then you cannot become the official homeowner until those conditions are met. While the offers are on the table, the seller may “counteroffer” meaning they may disagree with some terms of your offer but want to negotiate based on their counterterms. This negotiation process occurs using realtors as your main advocates. You would discuss the counter offer with your realtor, and either choose to accept or additionally negotiate. An accepted offer is an offer that has been approved by the seller. If the offer is accepted and all the conditions have been met, then the house is sold firm, meaning you are officially buying a home! There will be a final walkthrough, and closing dates will be set throughout the negotiation process for you to take possession. Get ready to move It’s time to get ready to move into your new home! Plan ahead of time about your move. In this plan, you should include how and when you’re going to pack, whether you are renting a moving van, or hiring a moving company, what day you intend to move things into your home, and so on. Another significant aspect of getting ready to move will be to call all the necessary utility companies involved with your home (i.e., hydro, water, propane, etc.) to get accounts made in your name and ensure that these services begin on the day you take possession of your new home! Once you are all set with your plan, it’s time to get packing! Moving day approaches faster than you think! Closing day! The day has finally come! It’s closing day on your new home. Closing day means that the keys to your home will be officially transferred into your possession and the house now belongs to you. Typically, you pick up your keys from your realtor in the late afternoon that day
Neighbourhood Snapshot : Carlington is an Ottawa Community to Watch
When you buy a home, it’s more than just the house itself, you’re really buying into a lifestyle, and becoming part of a community. The Ottawa and surrounding area has a lot to offer and there may be “hidden gems” that you hadn’t considered. We’re excited to introduce a new series of blog posts dedicated to giving readers the inside scoop on some great Ottawa neighbourhoods, starting with Carlington! Welcome to Carlington! Nestled in the heart of the city, Carlington is a community to watch. This neighbourhood has lots of amenities along with easy access to the Queensway making travel within the city a breeze. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the pricy Island Park, Civic Hospital, and Westboro neighbourhoods, Carlington has similar charm but is far more affordable. About Carlington Carlington is located in the River Ward in the west-end of Ottawa and it is bordered by Clyde Avenue to the West, Carling Avenue to the North, Fisher Avenue to the East, and the Central Experimental Farm to the South. The area features a variety of different style homes with most being built prior to 1980 but you will also find brand new homes that are taking the place of smaller war-time homes on larger lots. As the Westgate development begins, Carlington will see extensive growth in the near future. “The area consists of many different style homes, on generous sized lots, offering something for everyone”, says Jennifer Forward, Realtor with Royal LePage Team Realty. Carlington is an active community with many young families and is a great place to buy a starter home. The largest segments of the population falling in the age range of 20 to 44 years old but there are people of all ages that call this community home. Great Value “As a former resident for 12 years, current owner, and having sold many homes in the neighbourhood, I feel that Carlington is one of Ottawa’s best kept secrets,” says Forward, “Carlington is a great place to live and offers excellent value”. With neighbouring communities becoming out of the price range for many buyers, Carlington is seeing steady but reasonable growth in property values. With the average price sitting around $400,000, this neighbourhood provides great properties at a more affordable price point. Amenities Enter this well-located neighbourhood, and enjoy easy access to everything you and your family may need. Situated close to 2 hospitals, schools, community centres, and shopping, Carlington has many amenities to offer. This area features a very active community association, and you don’t want to miss the annual “Carlington Family Fun Day” held every May! As summer begins, join this community at one of the best-shaded splash pads in the city at Harold Place Park! The neighbourhood itself offers a warm country feel, thanks to the Experimental Farm being right at your doorstep, which boasts lots of trails and bike paths to choose from. Quickly arrive at beautiful destinations such as Dow’s Lake, the Arboretum, and the Canada Agriculture Museum. Explore these beautiful locations, and enjoy dog walking, biking and an assortment of available activities. Local hot spots Bowman’s Bar and Grill – Self proclaimed as “your neighbourhood restaurant with a great selection of familiar food done well” and this family friendly restaurant does not disappoint! Raven Street Studios – Constructed in 1992, this facility remains Ottawa’s largest and most established recording complex. Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman, Avril Lavigne, Snoop Dogg, Train, and Collective Soul have all recorded there! House of Lasagna – This authentic Italian eatery is known for its lasagna and pizza! Eat in, take out or delivery! Timberware Handcrafted Furniture – If you are looking for a beautiful and rustic wood piece for your home, these guys have you covered. Check out their amazing projects! If you’re interested in homes for sale in Carlington or you would like information on property values or current market reports on this or any other neighbourhood please contact us! We are always here to help.
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot: May 2018
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot: May 2018: While inventory is still lower than normal, the number of listings coming onto the market this month is typical spring activity! Have questions? Looking for specific neighbourhood stats? Message us!! The following are hightlights from the Ottawa Real Estate Board’s latest News Release read the full story Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 2,279 residential properties in May through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® System, compared with 2,294 in May 2017, a decrease of 0.7 per cent. The five-year average for May sales is 2,041. May’s sales included 485 in the condominium property class and 1,794 in the residential property class. “Although our overall inventory stock is down in both the residential and condo market, the number of listings coming onto the market this month is typical spring activity,” states Ralph Shaw, President of the Ottawa Real Estate Board. “The sheer number of home sales that took place in May indicates that inventory is turning over quickly– certainly a sign that Ottawa is a healthy real estate market.” The average sale price of a residential-class property sold in May in the Ottawa area was $464,401, an increase of 6.3 per cent over May 2017. The average sale price for a condominium-class property was $281,247, an increase of 3.4 per cent from May 2017.* “In the first five months of 2018, the value of a single-family home has increased about 8% and approximately 6.5% for condominiums,” Shaw notes. “This price acceleration is encouraging news for homeowners who have now seen an average of 3% price growth per year for the last five years.” “Much of the total increase in property values have been experienced since the beginning of this year. Not only will this help new homebuilders validate their pricing since construction costs and development fees are so high, but it also will give baby boomers incentive to sell their homes which will help put inventory back onto the market,” he explains. “While our inventory stays at historically low levels, especially in some neighbourhoods, there will continue to be upward pressure on home prices. We definitely have the demand for housing in this city not only because it is still very affordable but because all the fundamentals are solid here. However, our city does need to have a longer-term housing supply strategy so that we aren’t confronted with future affordability challenges,” Shaw advises. The $300,000 to $449,999 range remains the most active price point in the residential market, accounting for 45 per cent of home sales, while the $500,000 to $750,000 range continues to gain momentum, now representing almost one-quarter of residential home sales. “Between $150,000 and $249,999 was May’s most active price point in the condominium market, accounting for 49 per cent of the units sold,” Shaw reports. “Moreover, apartment condos represent 52 per cent of the sales. This is likely a reflection of the low vacancy rate in the rental market. If you can scrape together a down payment, the carrying costs of one of these condos should be less than renting,” he suggests. In addition to residential and condominium sales, OREB Members assisted clients with renting 1,020 properties since the beginning of the year. * The Board cautions that the average sale price can be useful in establishing trends over time but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The calculation of the average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Price and conditions will vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.
Turn your Vacation into a Staycation: Activities for families in Ottawa
Turn your Vacation into a Staycation: Activities for families in Ottawa Summer is a wonderful time to spend a little quality time with friends and family; things are more relaxed, the kids are out of school and you won’t have to worry about a last minute snow storm interfering with travel plans (well here’s hoping!) . But organizing a family vacation, especially when you have young children, can be stressful (just think of the Griswalds). The packing, planning, stopping, driving, – the list could go on and on. Have you ever arrived at your destination tired, wishing you’d just stayed home? If the answer is yes, you can take the stress out of your vacation this year, and turn it into a “Staycation”! At this moment, you’re certainly considering this option, but wondering what there possibly could be to do in Ottawa for a family that already lives here? Have no fear; we have the answers you are looking for. Staycations are becoming a popular option for many families, as leaving home can be stressful, and expensive. In Ottawa, there are many options for families looking for things to do this summer during their family holidays including, but not limited to; museums, parks, festivals, Mooney’s Bay, Calypso Water Park, Saunders Farm and many more. These activities offer a change from your usual summer activities, without the stress of being far from home. Ottawa Museums & Parks Ottawa is a city that is home to many wonderful museums and exhibits just a short distance from your front door. These museums offer a wide variety of topics, from nature to history, to art galleries and more – Ottawa has a museum for every learning opportunity and interest. A more detailed list of museums and their special exhibits this summer can give you a better way to choose which museum to go to first! Don’t miss out on the brains, war history, gallery exhibits and more that will be making their way to museums in the Capital this summer. Saunders’ Farm Join Saunders’ Farm this summer for an array of family activities that will fill your staycation with laughter. From challenging mazes to an expanded pedal cart race track to hayride farm tours, a splash pad, and the new jumbo jumpers, Saunders’ Farm has activities for the whole family to enjoy. With reasonable family rates, and even offering a summer camp for kids – this is a stop you don’t want to miss out on. Beaches, Splash Pads, & Water Parks Keep cool this summer by visiting one of the city’s many splash pads, or have a relaxing family beach day at Mooney’s Bay Park, on the Rideau Canal. As one of the city’s four supervised beaches, you can relax knowing there are lifeguards on site each day. There is a picnic area, indoor change rooms, and a children’s playground to enjoy. Hike the Hog’s Back Nature Trails, see the Rideau Locks in action, or liven up your day with an interactive Pirate Adventure in Mooney’s Bay. This live theater cruise is on a real pirate ship in the heart of Mooney’s Bay. There are over 100 splash pads in Ottawa to choose from, each with their own assortment of activities and features. Some splash pads feature water cannons, spray loops, dumping buckets and more, each with their own “cool” functionality. Make it a family mission this summer to visit as many of the 100 splash pads located across the city or find your favourite ones to enjoy this summer sunshine! If you’re looking for something a little more thrilling than beaches or splash pads, look no further than Calypso Water Park, located here in Ottawa. Opening this year on June 6, the park features water activities for all ages. This park is home to the largest wave pool in Canada and features over 35 different water slides, two themed rivers, and 100 water games. Dive into the adventures of Calypso Water Park and keep the whole family cool and entertained this summer break. Action and Arcades With its very own escape room, laser tag, bumper cars, jungle gyms and more – FunHaven is Ottawa’s one-stop shop for family fun. Try your hand at their rock climbing wall, or challenge your family to an epic game of laser tag. Children 0-3years enter for free, and with tons of different arcade games and activities to choose from, there’s fun for the whole family to enjoy! House of Targ is another hidden gem of Ottawa, located in Old Ottawa South just down the street from TD place. If you’re looking for a cool space with a retro vibe, this is it! Ottawa’s only true classic arcade, at House of Targ you can play over 35 pinball and classic Arcade games (yes, even PACMAN!). While you might not think of this as a “family” outing, it is very kid friendly during the day and their perogies are AMAZING. After 8pm House of Targ has some of the best live rock, punk and metal shows in the city. Treat yourself After all that family time you might be looking for a wee bit of “me time”. Le Nordik Spa, is located at the entrance of Gatineau Park and is one of Ottawa’s most popular “staycation” activities for millennials and baby boomers alike. Offering relaxation using techniques from the Nordic countries you can take time to unwind and re-energize in Nordic baths, waterfalls, steam baths, saunas, and more. Book a massage or body treatment and even enjoy a meal – baby you’re worth it! And it’s only 10 minutes from downtown Gatineau-Ottawa. ByWard Market, City Fun & Other Ideas Tour the ByWard Market this summer and see what little shops and hidden gems you can discover downtown, or take a visit to Parliament Hill to tour the Parliament Buildings. Enjoy our regal Parliament buildings, stop at museums and shops throughout the day, and celebrate the nightlife Ottawa has to offer. Check out the ByWard Market’s website to view any festivals or entertainment happening during your time and plan to visit a festival or see a
Home-Grown Issues: The impacts of home-grown marijuana and legalization
Home-Grown Issues: The impacts of home-grown marijuana and legalization Many Canadians are awaiting this July 2018 with much anticipation, as Bill C-45 will allow the legalization of marijuana, including their ability to grow up to 4 plants within their residence. However, without the proper protections and awareness in place this new legislation could cost home owners thousands, or even their mortgage. The increase of private residence grow-ops that will begin following legalization is a major concern for the real estate industry. Experts say that everyone from “buyers, to sellers, to real estate agents, and home inspectors” will be affected by the consequences produced by home grow-ops. Issues with Home-Grown There is currently no legal benchmark in the definition of a grow-op. This means, that whether it is a large-scale operation, or a single potted plant, the home is viewed in the same light. Although this doesn’t seem like a big issue to some, the underlying damages that can result from growing marijuana plants within a residence have serious ramifications on insurance, mortgages, and future sales. Damages and building inspections The humidity and power required to grow larger quantities of plants can lead to electrical system damages, and mold, fungus, and moisture issues within the home. These issues, and others can completely destroy the framework of the house. Building remediation is not mandated by the province with legalization, and there is no official registry of illegal grow-ops that allow future home buyers to be forewarned of the possible damages and health risks they may encounter. These damages don’t need to be evident for a home to be labeled a “grow-op”. As there is no “definition” of size to label as a grow op, the house can be stigmatized whether it is one or one hundred plants in the house, in the case of illegal operations. These houses can be heavily damaged, and often covered up to make the home saleable. “History has shown us that some shady property owners will go to great lengths to hide signs of a former grow operation” – Tim Hudak OREA CEO When it comes to future sales on a home with a grow-op label, evidence shows that these homes sell for less than the surrounding houses, even if the proper repairs have been performed. Legalization including home cultivation can lead to unsuspecting buyers purchasing homes that are damaged, and could leave building inspectors on the hook if any damages are missed prior to purchase. The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) is urging policy makers to include protective measures for home buyers, and the future of Ontario’s housing stock. Marijuana and Mortgages: As it stands currently, most mortgage lenders have a very conservative approach when in comes to homes where marijuana growth has been present. Typically, traditional mortgage lenders such as banks, will deny the mortgage altogether. This denial is based on the premise of resale value being decreased in homes where cultivation of marijuana has occurred. Without this knowledge, individual’s seeking to purchase a home can run into red-tape when it comes to financing a property once used to grow marijuana, and once legalization is in place – home cultivation can lead to damages in multiple homes and minimize the available houses that will be approved by bank lenders. This results in borrowers needing to use alternative lenders. The process of approval with alternative lenders, especially where growth of marijuana is concerned requires a lot more detailed paperwork, air/mold testing, and typically a case-by-case evaluation of each home to determine approval. Insurance Policies: If the home’s status is compromised, then the home becomes more difficult to insure. Without insurance companies who are willing to approve a home insurance policy, the mortgages will be unapproved by default. Because marijuana growth requires a large quantity of electricity, the home is at higher risk of fire. Fire insurance is a mandatory portion in ensuring approval of a mortgage. It is unclear at this point if insurers will adjust their policies post-legalization to account for these new possibilities. This could mean those who grow within the legal limit are still risking their home coverage to do so. Many insurers are discussing the possibility of introducing policies that allow for home-growing, but it is not yet determined how that may effect a home-owners insurance premiums. How is Home-Grown going to change Ontario? Simply put, the ability to grow up to 4 plants legally in ones home could jeopardize their current mortgage, insurance, and future sale-ability of their home. At this time, there is currently no legislation or protection in place that will guarantee home owners their home value, insurances, or mortgage approvals should they choose to go with the crowd awaiting home-grown this summer. There is certainly a lot to consider when it comes to homes and home-grown this July.
3 Tips For Making A Major Homeowners Insurance Claim
3 Tips For Making A Major Homeowners Insurance Claim Home insurance is one of the costs that come with home ownership. You pay your premiums to your insurance company and when disaster strikes, you expect that they will pay for most, if not all of the bill. But will they? Here are 3 tips to help you get the most out of your homeowner’s insurance claim. Know your limits, deductibles and what your coverage includes. Depending on your policy, your insurance company may or may not cover things like water damage. By reviewing your policy, you’ll know how much you can expect to pay out-of-pocket, which will help you decide which repairs are essential, and which can wait. You’ll also want to know whether your insurance company will pay actual cash value or replacement costs for personal property that has been damaged. Cash value may not be enough to cover replacement costs so get the details before you rush out to replace everything. Document all of your damage. Take photos of EVERYTHING before you start cleaning up or begin repairs. Document damage to every item. If you make any repairs before filing a claim, keep your receipts. After you file your claim, typically your insurance company will send an adjuster to your home to provide an estimate of the damage, but this can be well after you’ve started the cleanup and repair process. Providing photos and documentation to your insurance company is essential to ensuring they can make the most accurate assessment of the damage. If you disagree with the insurance company’s estimate, and decide to dispute, know your rights under your policy. Usually there is an appeal procedure that should include your right to submit a second estimate by a public adjuster that you hire yourself. This adjuster will work for you through the claim process to help ensure you get the full entitlement under your policy.
3 Tips For Making A Major Homeowners Insurance Claim
3 Tips For Making A Major Homeowners Insurance Claim Home insurance is one of the costs that come with home ownership. You pay your premiums to your insurance company and when disaster strikes, you expect that they will pay for most, if not all of the bill. But will they? Here are 3 tips to help you get the most out of your homeowner’s insurance claim. Know your limits, deductibles and what your coverage includes. Depending on your policy, your insurance company may or may not cover things like water damage. By reviewing your policy, you’ll know how much you can expect to pay out-of-pocket, which will help you decide which repairs are essential, and which can wait. You’ll also want to know whether your insurance company will pay actual cash value or replacement costs for personal property that has been damaged. Cash value may not be enough to cover replacement costs so get the details before you rush out to replace everything. Document all of your damage. Take photos of EVERYTHING before you start cleaning up or starting any repairs. Document damage to every item. If you make any repairs before filing a claim, keep your receipts. After you file your claim, typically your insurance company will send an adjuster to your home to provide an estimate of the damage, but this can be well after you’ve started the cleanup and repair process. Providing photos and documentation to your insurance company is essential to ensuring they can make the most accurate assessment of the damage. If you disagree with the insurance company’s estimate, and decide to dispute, know your rights under your policy. Usually there is an appeal procedure that should include your right to submit a second estimate by a public adjuster that you hire yourself. This adjuster will work for you through the claim process to help ensure you get the full entitlement under your policy.
Hot Real Estate Market in an Icy April
The Spring market continues to buzz in Ottawa real estate, with the number of sales up over 13% in April in spite of inventory levels being down 23% over this time last year. Home buyers are seeing more competition, which is good news for sellers. Certainly we are seeing more multiple offers and higher sale prices, however, with prices still reasonable compared to income in Ottawa real estate these factors aren’t stopping buyers. Hot Real Estate Market in an Icy April May 3, 2018 Highlights from the Ottawa Real Estate Board “Full employment and reasonable house prices in proportion to incomes are fueling our market. Ottawa is not only a beautiful and dynamic capital but also one of the more affordable cities in Canada,” observes Ralph Shaw, Ottawa Real Estate Board President. “While prices and conditions do vary by area, the overall residential marketplace shows solid and steady performance on investment for homeowners, and offers a variety of property class options and price points for those looking to enter the market,” he advises. “While sales were strong this month, certain areas in Ottawa continue to experience limited supply with both condo and residential inventory down 23.7% from the same month last year. With our low inventory, potential sellers are reluctant to put their home on the market if they are uncertain of their ability to acquire another property.” “April’s colder than usual temperatures may have been one of the reasons potential sellers delayed listing their properties. However, there are other factors at play which are contributing to the lack of supply. Of course, the new mortgage stress test is affecting some homeowners who may no longer qualify to upsize their homes,” Shaw points out. “Further compounding the issue within Ottawa proper is a restricted supply of serviceable land, and thus fewer new build opportunities. We need both the new build and resale inventory to be robust enough to meet demand on a consistent basis,” he explains. “Moreover,” Shaw elaborates, “life adjustment sellers such as Boomers, lack suitable purchasing options due to urban engineering. Many of them do not want to live in downtown condominiums, preferring smaller homes with an attached garage and a decent sized yard where they can still host family BBQs and entertain. Our city council would benefit from the input of Ottawa’s long-serving REALTORS® who truly understand the variety of needs of local home buyers and sellers,” Shaw concludes.
Buying a Home: What The Extras Cost
Contracts and rentals to consider in home ownership When it comes to buying a home, there are always additional fees to be considering when you make an offer. Typically, a first-time home buyer needs to be aware of the costs associated with buying a home – legal fees, mortgage rates, home insurance, closing costs, property taxes, land transfer fees…But what about those little extras not everyone considers? The contracts and rentals associated with the home such as furnaces, hot water tanks, and in some locations even your septic tanks – and what that could cost you. The main point is to understand EXACTLY what you are buying. Some of these costs are minimal, and won’t make a significant impact on your decision when it comes to home buying. However, if you’re looking at a home that requires you to take over a rental furnace, for example, some furnace contracts can cost hundreds of dollars per month to maintain. What can you do to know what you’re getting yourself into before the costs start rising? To begin with, ensure that you have an experienced realtor who can go over all appliances, and their extra associated costs (such as a hot water rental tank). Then have your lawyer go over the information provided and share their opinion and expertise with you. Be sure to do your research when it comes to the costs of rental furnaces (if that is your situation) in the area that you are looking to purchase the home, and understand what their associated terms and costs are. Carefully consider all options when it comes to these expenses, and what exactly you agree to take over. Smaller appliances, such as hot water tank rentals, and propane tank rentals are relatively low cost/inexpensive to take over and have precise terms and conditions. When it comes to taking over a furnace or septic tank rental, be sure to thoroughly evaluate all the options in the contracts provided, as well as research the typical costs associated with such items.
Understanding Property Taxes
Property taxes are a necessary part of owning property in Ontario. Anyone in Ontario who owns land or a property has to pay a certain amount of tax to the municipal government. Although these taxes are unpopular, as all taxes are, property taxes are important because they are the main revenue source for Ontario’s municipalities. Property taxes are separate from other forms of taxes, and the amount that each person owes is based on a unique assessment for their particular property and the tax rate of the municipality the property is in. How property taxes are determined for each individual property is quite simple. Each municipality within Ontario has its own municipal tax rate, which is determined based on the municipality’s budget and expected revenue. Each municipality also has an education tax rate, which helps to pay for schools and related services within the municipality. These education tax rates can vary within a municipality, depending on where a property is located in relation to schools. On an individual level, every property in Ontario has an assessed value based on property assessments that are carried out periodically. In order to find the total amount of property taxes owed, a simple formula is followed. The municipal tax rate is added to the education tax rate that is applicable for the particular property (and in some cases other taxes are applied as well), and then the result is multiplied by the property’s assessed value. The resulting amount is the total property tax that you will owe for the year. For clarity, an example is below: Property’s Current Value (by assessment): $285,000.00 Total Tax Rate: 1.05% Property Taxes Owed: $2,992.50 It can be tricky to find details of the municipal tax rate in your area, especially since it can vary on what type of property you own, but there are also estimators online to help you with your budgeting. When tax time comes you will also receive a notice of the amount you owe from your municipal government, so you do not need to worry about sending in the wrong amount. If you live in a part of the province that is not incorporated into a municipality, the process for determining your total property taxes is very similar. The only difference is that you will multiply your property’s assessed value by the provincial land tax, instead of an individual municipality’s property tax value. Generally, the provincial land tax is lower than that of incorporated municipalities. It is important to remember property tax when it comes to budgeting for tax time, and it is always a good idea to use an estimator to get an idea of what you will have to pay, so that you are not caught off-guard by an unexpectedly higher rate.
Understanding Property Taxes
Property taxes are a necessary, though disliked part of owning property in Ontario. Anyone in Ontario who owns land or a property has to pay a certain amount of tax to the municipal government. Although these taxes are unpopular, as all taxes are, property taxes are important because they are the main revenue source for Ontario’s municipalities. Property taxes are separate from other forms of taxes, and the amount that each person owes is based on a unique assessment for their particular property and the tax rate of the municipality the property is in. How property taxes are determined for each individual property is quite simple. Each municipality within Ontario has its own municipal tax rate, which is determined based on the municipality’s budget and expected revenue. Each municipality also has an education tax rate, which helps to pay for schools and related services within the municipality. These education tax rates can vary within a municipality, depending on where a property is located in relation to schools. On an individual level, every property in Ontario has an assessed value based on property assessments that are carried out periodically. In order to find the total amount of property taxes owed, a simple formula is followed. The municipal tax rate is added to the education tax rate that is applicable for the particular property (and in some cases other taxes are applied as well), and then the result is multiplied by the property’s assessed value. The resulting amount is the total property tax that you will owe for the year. For clarity, an example is below: Property’s Current Value (by assessment): $285,000.00 Total Tax Rate: 1.05% Property Taxes Owed: $2,992.50 It can be tricky to find details of the municipal tax rate in your area, especially since it can vary on what type of property you own, but there are also estimators online to help you with your budgeting. When tax time comes you will also receive a notice of the amount you owe from your municipal government, so you do not need to worry about sending in the wrong amount. If you live in a part of the province that is not incorporated into a municipality, the process for determining your total property taxes is very similar. The only difference is that you will multiply your property’s assessed value by the provincial land tax, instead of an individual municipality’s property tax value. Generally, the provincial land tax is lower than that of incorporated municipalities. It is important to remember property tax when it comes to budgeting for tax time, and it is always a good idea to use an estimator to get an idea of what you will have to pay, so that you are not caught off-guard by an unexpectedly higher rate.
What Home Buyers Should be Looking for When Viewing a Property
You’ve done your research, found the perfect Realtor, crunched the numbers, created your list of must-haves and now it’s time to start the exciting process of HOUSE HUNTING! When you’re looking at homes for sale it isn’t always easy to look beyond the cosmetics. Not to worry, we’ve created this handy graphic to help home buyers to stay focused.
What Home Buyers Should be Looking for When Viewing a Property
You’ve done your research, found the perfect Realtor, crunched the numbers, created your list of must-haves and now it’s time to start the exciting process of HOUSE HUNTING! When you’re looking at homes for sale it isn’t always easy to look past the cosmetics. Not to worry, we’ve created this handy graphic to help home buyers to stay focused.
All About Homeowner’s Associations
When looking to buy a home, there are many options. Last week, we took a look at condos as compared to freehold properties but what about a freehold home with a homeowner’s association? In many cases, a homeowner’s association can appear very similar to a condo but this is not actually the case. It is very important to understand these differences before buying into a home with a homeowner’s association. Differences Between a Condo and Homeowner’s Association If you purchase a condo, you are purchasing your unit along with a share of the common element(s). These could include green spaces, amenities, private roads, or services and they are jointly owned by all condo owners. In the case of a homeowner’s association, those common elements are owned by a third party and your monthly homeowner’s association fees are paid to cover their maintenance and to allow usage of these amenities. In a homeowner’s association, you own your home and property but pay to use these common elements. Payment for these common elements is not usually optional so it is important to consider the cost and whether or not you will actually take advantage of them. Homeowner’s Association Fees Just like condos, homeowner’s association fees can vary dramatically depending on the amenities. They are generally charged monthly and go to cover anything from a parking lot or green space, or an amenity like a pool, golf course, or tennis court. The more that is offered, the higher the homeowner’s association fee. Restrictions Like a condo, a homeowner’s association may impose restrictions or bylaws. These restrictions can include exterior modifications, pets, or even people (some homeowner’s associations will not allow children to stay for long periods if the community is geared towards adult living). These restrictions can be strict so it is important ensure that the homeowner’s association bylaws fit your lifestyle. Perks of Buying a Home in a Home Owner’s Association Amenities – Some home owner’s associations offer great amenities. Ongoing Maintenance – Depending on what your homeowner’s association covers, it may mean that certain aspects of your property, or the property around your home is maintained. This can include snow removal and landscaping. Before You Buy As a buyer, you will need to sign a “Joint Use Agreement” and it is important to review this carefully to ensure that you fully understand the details of the homeowner’s association. By signing this agreement, you are agreeing to pay all monthly fees and abide by any bylaws that have been put into place. With all real estate transactions, it is important to work with a Realtor. A Realtor will be able to guide you through the decision making process to ensure that you know what you are buying.
Clean, Clean, Let it be Spring!
Spring Clean-Up Time in the Capital As spring speckles and the snow begins to melt, it’s time to get busy cleaning up our capital after Jack Frost’s long hold over us. Littered across this beautiful city, left out in the winter’s cold we’ll find discarded coffee cups, old cigarette butts, stray plastic bags and papers – the list could continue ad infinitum. Something about winter’s frozen grip seems to allow this build up of trash, so it’s only natural that the sun’s welcomed melt brings along with it a much needed clean up. The Capital region has a month-long challenge called Cleaning the Capital, sponsored by GLAD, which runs from mid-April to mid-May. By registering your clean-up project, cleaning supplies will be provided to your group. The official Capital Cleanup Weekend is April 27,2018 to April 29,2018 but your project does not have to take place during this weekend to be counted. The deadline to register for GLAD’s Cleanup project is May 15th, with May 31st being the deadline to submit your online cleanup report. Although the above is a wonderful initiative to get involved within your community, it is not the only way to be a part of this year’s Spring Cleaning season. Keeping your community clean, and helping your neighbourhood shine is not always a sanctioned event, that must be done in a certain way. Every single individual could unofficially participate in helping the community sparkle once again. Simply make the effort to pick up litter when you see it, grab that floating plastic bag on your morning walk and take it home with you. Bring an extra plastic bag when you take the kids to the park and pick up garbage along the way, throw that empty coffee cup into the recycling bin, or empty that car ashtray into a garbage bag at home. Community clean ups don’t often require largely sanctioned events, although they are extremely helpful. Every individual can help do their part, just one piece of trash at a time. Take care of your neighbourhood, so the light and beauty it provides, can take care of you.
All About Condos
When it comes time to buy a home, more and more people are making the decision to buy condos instead of a freehold home. Condos can be a great option if they match up with a buyer’s lifestyle, but it is important to do your research and know the differences between a freehold home and condo before you make the final decision of which to purchase. There are many different types of condos but they all have one thing in common: shared ownership of at least one common element. This element could be the building itself, in the case of an apartment building, or it could be a green space, private street, or an amenity like a pool. It is important that you do your research before buying a condo to understand exactly what you are buying. Condo Fees When you purchase a condo, you will be required to pay a monthly condo fee to pay for the shared element along with the fees associated with managing the condo. Condo fees can vary dramatically between different condos depending on the shared elements. As a general rule, the more amenities and services a condo provides, the higher the condo fee. Condo Restrictions Condos generally have their own set of bylaws which govern the entire condo. Some can be incredibly restrictive while others are very minimal. A person who has exclusive ownership of a home can do anything they want with the house or surrounding grounds, within the limits of local by-laws of course. Condo owners, on the other hand, are sometimes limited in the changes they are allowed to make to their property. This can range from simple restrictions on renovations that affect the home’s outside, to limitations on exterior decorations and even decorations that can be seen from the front windows, depending on how strict the rules are for an individual condo. These rules are set out by the condo association that oversees the condo, and are heavily dependent on the individual condo location. As shared owner of the condo and all that goes with it, each individual owner has a vote in decisions that affect all condos, but this rarely includes altering rules that have already been established. Perks of Buying a Condo Amenities – Some condos offer exciting amenities such as pools, fitness rooms, and party rooms. Insurance – Most condo fees cover some form of insurance on your unit, whether an apartment or detached home. This will reduce your monthly personal insurance costs. Restrictions can be good – Depending on what you are looking for, restrictions can be a good thing as it keeps the neighbourhood looking cohesive and can restrict the likelihood of an “eye sore” appearing. Major Maintenance – Some condo fees include the maintenance of all exterior components of your unit including the roof, windows, siding, and bricks. These can be major expenses for home owners. Ongoing Maintenance – Some condo fees cover ongoing maintenance fees such as snow removal, lawn mowing and landscaping. This could leave you with more free time if you don’t have to take care of these things on a regular basis. Before You Buy As part of your offer your real estate agent will include a condition relating to reviewing and approving the Status Certificate** of the condo association. This will allow your lawyer time to thoroughly examine the Status Certificate of the condo association. Make sure you review all of the information below and are satisfied with the answers: The financial status of the condo, including the reserve fund. Some condos are managed better than others. You want to ensure that the association has money in the bank to pay for repairs and incidentals because if they don’t, your fees may go up. The history of the condo fees. Have they been steady or been increasing rapidly? What your condo fees cover exactly. Have your lawyer review with you what the condo fees cover and what they do not. Do not make assumptions as all condos are different. Restrictions and condo bylaws. Condos come with advantages and limitations, just as owning a freehold home does. The important thing is to do careful research and decide which option best fits your needs and lifestyle. When researching condos, be sure to look around at multiple locations, as the rules, fees, facilities and size of condos can vary greatly from one area to another. And don’t forget, a Realtor will be there to guide you through every step of the process. **A status certificate is a document provided by the condominium corporation to buyers of resale condos that provides a snapshot of the unit as at the date that the certificate is issued. In most cases, if the building is serviced by a property management company, it is prepared by the property manager.
James Dean
Sales Representative
Royal LePage Team Realty
1335 Carling Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario
K1Z 8N8
Office: 613-725-1171
Direct: 613-293-2088
Fax: 613-725-3323
Toll Free: 1-800-307-1545
James@JamesDean.ca