The Brantford Home Info Blog!

Five Qualities That Will Help You Overcome Obstacles During Your Brantford Home Sale!

2012-02-23T12:25:00.000-08:00

As a Brantford real estate agent, I can’t begin to express how many obstacles I have had to overcome during some of my buyer and seller transactions. The Brantford real estate market is not an easy one to navigate, and there are several things that can go wrong in the process of buying or selling a home. Once two parties get involved, the slightest hiccup or obstacle can cause stress, anxiety and frustration for everyone. I am here to tell you, however, that these roadblocks can be dealt with, and you can see success in your Brantford real estate transaction. All it takes is the right attitude and the best real estate professional.

I think that it’s important, as a Brant County real estate agent, to warn my buyer and seller clients about everything that could possibly go wrong during a transaction. Don’t get me wrong: I don’t take a “gloom and doom” stance towards real estate. I find that the majority of transactions face minimal issues. In order to protect yourself, however, you need to be aware of what can go wrong so you can work to prevent it, or know what to do when something arises. It will also serve you well to keep in mind that there are some qualities that will help you see a successful Brantford real estate transaction, even after a few obstacles are thrown your way. I can think of five that will really benefit you during your Brantford, ON home sale:

Persistence. This is perhaps the most important quality that you can have during your real estate transaction. With the number of delays that can occur between the lender and buyers, the process of buying or selling a home can sometimes take a long time to complete. During these delays, the best thing that you can do is be persistent. Call your lender consistently and follow up. If you get your loan application denied, try again with a different lender. Persistence will get you far in the real estate world, so don’t be afraid to stay on top of everyone involved in the transaction. I can guarantee that you’ll see results faster.

Patience. Sometimes, you can do everything by-the-book in a timely fashion and STILL face delays. Sure, these times absolutely get frustrating and irritating, but if you throw up your hands and walk away, then you could be missing out on a great offer for your home or the perfect Brantford, ON property. With transactions as large as those in the real estate world, you need to remember to be patient. A lot of paperwork, negotiation and repairs may need to be done before you can sell or buy a home. If you keep that in mind, then you will see that most Brantford real estate professionals are around to help you, not hurt you.

Negotiation skills. This is an art form, and if you or your real estate agent can master it, then you’ll find that you can get what you want out of the deal. It’s important to look out for your own best interest during a real estate transaction, whether you are a buyer or a seller. If your Brantford real estate agent isn’t negotiating well on your behalf, then you need to find one that will. The better you are at negotiating, the more likely it is that you will get what you want during and after each transaction.

Education. Your Brantford real estate agent is a great resource for information about the ins and outs of buying or selling a home, so you should use them! The more that you know about each transaction going into it, the better prepared that you will be for any conflicts that may arise. Do your research, use your real estate professional for guidance, and use what you know to help navigate your way through negotiations.

Creativity. There’s no denying that any number of conflicts can arise during a Brantford real estate transaction, but sometimes, when the going gets tough, you need to think outside the box. If you sit down with your real estate agent and brainstorm possible solutions, then you could find yourself coming up with a creative idea that will get you out of a bind. Use your brainpower and everything that you know about the real estate world and come up with a solution!

If you exhibit any of these five qualities during your Brantford real estate transaction, I can practically guarantee that you’ll see a successful closing. Whether you’re a home buyer or seller, putting some of these traits to practice will help you get the best possible result from your transaction, and that is what will ensure that you’re happy with the results. As your Brantford real estate agent, I am always here to help, offer you ideas and look out for your best interest. I make that my top priority!

If you have any questions about buying or selling your Brantford, ON home, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d love to help out in any way that I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Reap the Benefits of Being a First-Time Home Buyer in Brantford!

2012-02-16T13:32:00.000-08:00

As a Brantford, ON real estate agent, I work with buyers and sellers with a variety of different experiences in the local real estate market. When a first-time home buyer approaches me and asks for help with their Brantford real estate transaction, I immediately get excited. Not only do I get the privilege of helping somebody find the home of their dreams for the first time, but I also get to explain the many benefits that come with being a first-time home buyer in Brantford, ON.

Don’t get me wrong; there are many benefits to being a homeowner in general. The tax write-off itself is an enticing reason to buy a home. If you’re buying property for the first time, however, you can enjoy a few funding and tax benefits that people who have owned a home before don’t get to have. One of my biggest priorities as a Brantford, ON real estate expert is to make sure that I educate my clients about all of the aspects of buying a home. Sometimes, this means delivering bad news, however I actually enjoy telling my clients about these financial benefits. Oftentimes, it makes a large difference to my clients and makes them more confident in their decision to invest in a Brantford, ON home.

I thought I’d take some time to explain these two first-time home buyer benefits in more depth. Hopefully, this provides some clarity on the issue and demonstrates some of the many reasons that you should buy a home in Brantford, ON.

The first benefit that you can receive as a first-time home buyer is the First-time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit. If you qualify for this tax credit, you can claim $750.00 against your personal income tax in the year that you acquire the home. In order to qualify for the credit, neither you nor your spouse or common-law partner can have owned a home four years prior to acquiring the property. You must also be purchasing the home for your own personal occupancy, not as a gift for somebody else. Only one party can claim this tax for the total $750 maximum credit. You can split the claim between two parties, but you would then split the credit between the two of you. The majority of Brantford, ON first-time home buyers qualify for this tax credit, and it’s only one of the many benefits you can get from buying a home in Brantford, ON.

The second benefit that you can receive as a first-time home buyer is the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan. This is essentially a plan that allows you, as a buyer, to withdraw a maximum of $25,000 from your RRSP in order to buy a qualifying home in which you will live. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they, too can withdraw up to $25,000 from their RRSP to go towards the purchase of the same property. To qualify for this funding, you or your spouse or common-law partner can not have owned a home four years prior to acquiring the property, and you must also occupy the home within one year of withdrawing the money. This is a fantastic financing option for Brantford, ON first-time home buyers who might need some extra money in order to afford their first home. You can pay off this money over a fifteen-year period, as well.

These two incentives provide many first-time home buyers in the Brantford, ON area with the resources and convincing that they need to take the plunge and invest in a house. As a Brantford, ON real estate agent, I feel that it is important to make my clients aware of these benefits. It’s a major factor that any potential buyer should consider when deciding whether or not to begin their home search.

If you have any questions about these two home buyer benefits, or if you want to begin your Brantford, ON home search, then don’t hesitate to contact me! Your real estate needs are my first priority, and I’d be happy to help you in any way that I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Ten Ways to Enhance Your Brantford, ON Home’s Curb Appeal!

2012-02-09T14:10:00.000-08:00

You know the feeling: you are walking through your neighborhood, and you pass a home that just grabs your attention. Something about its exterior makes you want to see what the interior looks like. This scenario is something that every Brantford home seller wants to happen as people pass their home; because that means that the buyers are intrigued by what they see on the outside. The event that I have just described refers to what we in the Brantford real estate industry call “curb appeal”, or how much your home allures buyers from the outside. This is something that every Brantford real estate agent encourages their sellers to pay attention to when they go to put their home on the market.

Despite what you may think, obtaining a strong sense of curb appeal doesn’t require too much money or renovation. You can stay budget-friendly and do mild preparation while still achieving an alluring exterior. These ten home enhancements will take your exterior to another level without breaking the bank.

1. Wash your home’s front, side and windows. It sounds extreme, but taking the time to clean your home will make all the difference to a Brantford home buyer. A dirty home exterior gives the impression that your home is run-down and neglected. This will do wonders for the impression your home gives buyers at first glance.

2. Fix broken concrete walkways. People notice if there are large cracks in the walkway as they approach your home. Not only is this visually unsettling, but it’s also something that doesn’t usually go over well with most home inspectors. This will require some DIY work or money to fix, but it is well-worth it to see your driveway and front walkway looking brand new!

3. Your front door makes a difference. A front door that has peeling paint or a worn-down color can be a deterrent. It’s one of the first things that people see when they approach your home. Freshen up the paint with a bright color. Replace any ripped or broken screen doors, as well. The better your front door looks, the better the buyer response will be.

4. How’s your exterior lighting? People often overlook exterior lighting, as most buyers will see a home during the day. It’s still a good idea, however, to replace old or outdated light fixtures with something new in order to give your home a bit of a facelift. It will make buyers appreciate the home that much more as they take a closer look at it.

5. Fix loose railings. Tighten or fix any loose railings on your front deck or porch. It will contribute to your home’s overall appearance.

6. Touch up your driveway with some paint. Yes, you read that correctly! Applying a top sealer coating to your driveway will make the asphalt look as good as new! Just make sure that you sweep up the driveway before in order to grab any dirt before you start painting.

7. Clean out your eavestroughs. Once again, this is something that gets overlooked a lot of the time, but this will contribute to the overall effect of your home. When your eavestroughs are old and dilapidated, they often give your home’s exterior a run-down, neglected look. You may have to replace these altogether, but it would be well-worth the cost. Don’t neglect this part of your curb appeal!

8. Repair roof shingles. Not only will it make your home look like it’s been a bit neglected if you leave the roof unrepaired, but it will also turn several buyers off. Roof repairs are costly, and many buyers want to make sure that there are absolutely no issues with the roof when they start looking at a home for the first time. If you haven’t addressed this aspect of your home, and you need to, now is the time to start! It will avoid hassles and headaches down the line.

9. Do you have loose wires? Keep an eye out for them! Over the course of several years, the wires hooking up your TV, telephone and cable can become loose, and that could stand out if the wires run along the exterior of the house. Use your discretion and ensure that any issues with the wiring are taken care of before you start showing the house.

10. Pay attention to landscaping. An overgrown yard and neglected trees and shrubs will not create the inviting, alluring look that you’re going for. Take the time to do a little landscaping and clean up the greenery ahead of time, and you’ll find that it will make a huge difference to your curb appeal.

As a Brantford real estate agent, I always advise my sellers to take some time before showing their house and set it aside for exterior enhancement. Curb appeal is a powerful tool for getting buyers to go inside a house. The more traffic you get, the more likely it is that your Brantford, ON home will sell sooner. Despite the work it might take, these enhancements don’t need to be expensive. You can do them yourself and stick to your budget.

If you have any questions about how to best prepare your Brantford, ON home for sale, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’ll give you some tips and advice about how to get your curb appeal where it needs to be. I hope to hear from you soon.

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Three Steps to Making the Perfect Offer on a Brantford, ON Home!

2012-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

I’m not going to lie to you: when it comes to buying a home on the Brantford real estate market, one of the most difficult elements of the transaction is making your initial offer. The negotiation process is an art form. You want to make sure that you’re being fair to the seller; however you also want to look out for your own best interest. As a Brantford real estate agent, a large part of my job is working on the behalf of any buyer who hires me to help them find a home. Part of the way in which I accomplish this is by guiding my clients through the process of making an offer.

When it comes to submitting your first offer to the seller of the Brantford home you are interested in buying, the thing that you should remember is that you want your demands to be a reasonable as possible. The more realistic you are in your initial offer, the more likely it is that it will be accepted. Going back and forth too many times can result in you either overpaying for the home or losing the house completely, so you want to decide on how much you want to offer carefully. In order to successfully accomplish this, I always tell my Brantford home buyers to consider three things as they compose their initial offer:

Use a comparative market analysis. Your Brantford real estate agent should give you a comparative market analysis, which is essentially a document that estimates the true value of the property. The CMA takes important characteristics of the home and compares it to other properties in the area with matching features. For your offer, you should look at what these other properties sold for and adjust the price based on which of the sold homes match closest to the one you are thinking about buying. This will give you the most mathematically accurate estimate to use when deciding on a starting figure.

Examine market trends carefully. Right now, in Brantford real estate, we are really in more of a buyer’s market, so that should factor in to your offer. You could get away with making an offer that is a little bit on the lower side because market conditions are making it more difficult for sellers to get their homes off the market. You should also consider factors such as how long the home has been on the market, how many other active listings there are in the area, interest rates, and seasonal issues. Consulting with your Brantford real estate agent about current market conditions will allow you to get a picture of what you should be offering.

Look at the specific facts of the property and the seller. You can use items like the CMA and market trend statistics as a jumping-off point, but every home is different and has its own set of extenuating circumstances. You should review all of the details of the property and the situation that the seller is in and take that into account when making an offer, as well. Look at what the property appraised for and don’t offer anything above it. Once again, this is something that you should discuss with your Brantford real estate agent! They will know details about the property that could play an important role in your initial offer.

Out of all of the advice I give on this topic, this is perhaps the most important: make your first offer your best offer. Analyze the data carefully, take a look at all of the important factors and make the best, most educated offer you can come up with. I can practically guarantee that if you consider everything carefully and make a fair offer, that the seller will respond well to it, even if they do counteroffer. Remember: the more information you have to back up your thought process, the better you can negotiate with the seller if they don’t accept your initial figure.

As an experienced Brantford real estate agent, I make it a top priority to aid my clients through the process of making an offer. It is truly a difficult and challenging art form that requires the right information and guidance. If you have any questions about buying a home on the Brantford real estate market, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d love to help in any way that I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Five Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before Your Brantford Home Remodel

2012-01-26T13:06:00.000-08:00

Although I am a Brantford real estate agent and not in the contracting business, part of my job is to be aware of how much value certain remodeling projects will add to a home. In fact, when sellers approach me and say that they’re ready to list their home on the Brantford real estate market, I always ask if their home is updated or if it needs a little bit of remodeling. The reason why this is so important is because in this market, prices are on the lower side and buyers have more of an opportunity to get a home on the cheap. If you invest a little bit of money into the right remodel, then there is a chance that you can raise the value of your home and get more for the property.

Some remodeling projects will be relatively inexpensive and require little labor, while others might be more costly and require a contractor. Whatever the case, I feel that it is part of my responsibility as a Brantford real estate agent to help guide sellers who are interested in remodeling before putting their home on the market. In order to ensure that my clients get the right contractor for the job, I recommend that they ask these five questions before hiring someone. After all, if the remodel is botched, then there’s no way your Brantford home’s value will go up when you decide to sell! If you ask these questions ahead of time, you will more likely find the contractor who will get the job done right.

Would you give me an itemized bid? Some contractors prefer to give one, bottom-line price for their work, leaving you in the dark about what each element of the remodel costs individually. Since the company has to figure out the cost line by line anyway, it’s no inconvenience to them to show you the details of the bid. If they’re withholding this information or reluctant to show you the itemized details, then that should be a red flag and it may be time to move on to the next option.

Is your bid an estimate or a fixed price? I can’t tell you how many Brantford homeowners have said that they took a look at the bid and assumed that it was the finalized price on their remodel. Some contractors treat their bids as estimates, which could result in a higher bill at the end of the project. If a long list of unknown factors is stopping your contractor from giving you a fixed price, then attempt to eliminate those by giving the contractor freedom to inspect your home on a more thorough level.

How long have you been in business in the area? A contractor who has been in business for ten years in your area will have a solid foundation and network of suppliers and subcontractors in the area. He will have a reputation to uphold, and as a result, your project will be priority to him. Hiring a newer contractor or someone who typically works farther away won’t necessarily hinder your remodel; however they won’t have the deep-seeded reputation, and as a result they may not care as much.

Who are your main suppliers? Think of a contractor’s suppliers as their references. After all, who knows more about the quality of work of the person you’re hiring then the people who supply them with the tools to do it? If a contractor has a few quality suppliers that he has an ongoing, working relationship with, he most likely produces great work and is an honest businessman. Contractors with little supplier connections or who don’t have a significant relationship with any one supplier should raise a red flag, as there is likely a reason for that.

Can I meet the job foreman? Contractors are not typically the workers who are at your home every day working on your remodel. That would be the job foreman. It’s important to get to know this person, since they will essentially be the ones at your home every day overseeing the project and working on it hands-on. Meeting the job foreman in person and observing a project that they are currently working on will give you an idea of whether or not this is the person you want managing the day-to-day aspects of your remodel.

If you ask these five questions of your contractor before hiring them to do the remodel on your Brantford home, then you will likely find the person who is right for the job. A flawless remodeling can result in value being added to your home, so as a Brantford real estate agent, I think that it is very important to consider hiring a contractor if needed. These questions will get you started in the process of getting your home ready to list on the Brantford real estate market!

If you have any questions about listing your home, or if you are interested in one of the beautiful homes on the Brantford real estate market, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d love to help you in any way I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Buy Your Brantford Home Sooner Rather Than Later!

2012-01-19T11:48:00.000-08:00

If you’re a Canadian homebuyer, then you should feel very lucky at the moment. While the rest of the world seems to be in a housing slump, Canadian real estate has been strong and thriving. This is primarily due to the affordable prices and low interest rates that are drawing Brantford homebuyers in to the market. As a Brantford real estate agent, I have been using the strength of the current housing market to benefit both buyers and sellers in the area.

According to Canadian Real Estate Magazine, if the December figures are any indication, then 2012 will continue to be a strong year for the local real estate market. Home sales activity has gone up 4.6% from last year, suggesting that the record low interest rates have satisfied buyers. Home prices have gone up only 0.9%, and the fact that low interest rates are not significantly increasing home prices means that buyers will want to continue to purchase homes all year long.

As a Brantford real estate agent, part of my job is gathering data like this and using it to show potential homebuyers why they should buy a home now. In an industry as turbulent as real estate, the conditions can change in as little as one month, so if you wait too long to buy a home, you could end up missing out on a fantastic opportunity. Since the current real estate climate in Canada is strong, now should be the time that you act on buying or selling a home! Here are a few of the many reasons that you should buy your Brantford home now:

•    Home prices are stabilized. You don’t need to worry about prices fluctuating a great deal in the current real estate market. Increases or decreases are minimal, so you can look at homes in your price range and not be afraid that in a short time it will be unattainable.
•    Interest rates are low. Now is the time to apply for a mortgage loan and get a great rate! This will help you avoid high mortgage payments down the line, and you can work out a plan that is more manageable for the future.
•    The market is strong and thriving. The fact that prices are increasing slightly means that more sellers will be willing to put their home on the market, which means that as a buyer, you’ll have more options. The best part about this is that conditions still suggest that it’s a buyer’s market, so more houses will be going on the market, but you’ll have the benefit of having the conditions work in your favor.

As a Brantford real estate agent, I use my many years of experience and extensive knowledge of the current market conditions to let my community know when it’s the best time to buy or sell their home. If the December figures were any indication, then 2012 will be the year for buyers in Brantford real estate. Now is the time to act!

If you have any questions about what it takes to buy a Brantford home, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d love to help you in any way that I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Just Listed: 850 Colborne Street - $25/SqFt: Future Office Building Space in Great Location!

2012-01-16T09:55:00.000-08:00

Offered At: $25/SqFt

To be built. Total sq.ft. - 4750. Approx 4 units. - 1x 1750 sq.ft. 3 x 1000 sq.ft. Can be modified to lessee's requirements. Will be a very attractive plaza in a great location close to new residential areas, bus route, parks and more. On main thoroughfare. Proposed sketches, elevations and floor plans are available.

RENTAL FEATURES

1 Office Available at 1750 SqFt

3 Offices Available at 1000 SqFt

All Utilities Will be Available

Proposed Sketches, Elevations & Floor Plans Available

LOCATION FEATURES

Corner Lot

Ample Parking

Close to Residential Areas

Close to Bus Route

Close to Parks

Photos

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Get Your Brantford Home Sold This Winter!

2012-01-12T12:44:00.000-08:00

If my many years of experience working as a Brantford real estate agent have taught me anything, it’s that many people are reluctant to sell their home during the winter months. Between the frigid temperatures and buildup of snow, the last thing people feel like doing is getting their home ready for sale and putting it on the market. Similarly, many home buyers would rather finish out the school year or put off their move until the weather gets a bit nicer. It’s an understandable deterrent, however my experience has taught me that going through a Brantford real estate transaction during the winter can be incredibly beneficial.

As a homeowner who wants to reap the benefits that listing a home in the winter can bring, it’s important to go above and beyond when you prepare your home for sale. While listing your home during the winter can be challenging, it is possible. The strategic tactics listed below will help you get your home sold during what is often known as real estate’s off-season. If you follow these trusty tips, then you’re much more likely to get your Brantford home sold this winter!

1. Set a realistic price. Since the market is slow during the winter, the buyers and sellers who are active during this time are typically very serious about the transaction. In order to get the traffic flowing to your property, you need to make sure that your home is priced correctly. Buyers expect discount prices during the winter months, so in order to avoid lowball offers, you need to price your home accurately at the beginning. The more realistic the price is early-on, the more likely it is that buyers will take you seriously.

2. Make sure all of your photos are snow-free. If you can, have your Brant County real estate agent arrange for pictures to be taken either before it snows or shortly after the first flurry melts. It’s the best way for a buyer to really see what your home looks like when it’s not covered with frozen water!

3. Maximize your home’s curb appeal, despite the snow. While it’s apparent that you won’t be able to have the pristine landscaping and perfectly manicured garden that you could have in June, the doom and gloom of winter is no excuse to neglect curb appeal. Clear the walkways and driveway of snow and put a clean doormat by your front door. You also need to make sure that all remnants of dead autumn leaves and tree branches are cleared from your yard.

4. Make your home staging seasonal. Despite the dreary weather in the winter, you can still add a comfortable, cheerful tone to your home staging this season! Start by de-cluttering and removing any overly personal touches from your home and put them in off-site storage. This will create the neutral space that will allow homebuyers to imagine themselves and their possessions in your home. From there, rearrange your furniture so that each room is shown at its maximum potential. As a finishing touch, bake a fresh batch of cookies or apple pie before a showing. This will create a warm atmosphere as potential buyers are coming in from the cold weather outside.

5. Enhance your interior lighting. Unfortunately, winter is naturally darker than summer, so you can’t rely on natural lighting to make your home look great when a buyer stops by for a showing. Maximize what natural lighting is available by having all of your windows professionally cleaned. It may also be a good idea to replace lower wattage lightbulbs with 100-watt ones. This way, the artificial light can make your home look a little bit brighter on a particularly dark day. Sure, this will drive up the electric bill a bit, but it’s worth it to showcase your home in the best light possible and sell it faster.

Despite the rough climate and onslaught of laziness that tends to come with the winter season, there are several benefits of listing a home during this time of year! The buyers and sellers on the market are much more serious due to the slowdown in the market, and there is potential to sell your home quickly. If you follow these tips closely, you will find that your Brantford home will sell!

As a Brantford real estate agent, I think it’s important to let my clients know how they can successfully sell their home at any time of year. If you have any questions about what you need to do to list your home right now, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d be happy to answer any of your questions. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Choose the Right Lender for Your Brantford Real Estate Loan!

2012-01-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

While the overall climate of the Brantford real estate market is healthy and strong, many people who are looking to buy a home or invest in real estate are having trouble obtaining financing. This is a discouraging factor for many who are looking to break in to the local market. Whether it’s through buying a Brantford home or investing in a new multi-family complex in the area, both homebuyers and investors alike are fearful to strike now because lending restrictions have gotten tighter. As an experienced Brantford real estate agent, I feel that it’s important to inform my clients about the lending process and let them know why their loan application could potentially be declined.

The primary factor that is important to recognize is that not all lenders are the same. Different lenders have varying criteria that they look for on each loan application, and a number of different factors can affect whether or not they give somebody a loan. The key to obtaining financing successfully is to do your research on each lender and find out which one looks for criteria that best matches your situation. From there, you can approach that lender and obtain the loan you need for your Brantford property.

Here are seven factors that could vary by lender. Use these factors as a starting point for your research. Remember, the more you know, the more success you’ll have in getting a loan!

Geography. If you’re looking to buy a home or invest in a property in an area where property value fluctuates or the local economy is in a downturn, then some lenders may not be as willing to give you a loan. Find a lender that doesn’t make this a priority or fine-tune your property search to areas that have been seeing more prosperity and growth in the economy and stability in property prices.

Property type. Some lenders are better for investors looking to buy multi-family and rental properties, and others are better for those looking to buy a new home. It’s important to go to the lender that will be most open to giving financing for the type of property you’re looking to buy. This is a matter in which you will have to be sure to do your research!

Number of rental properties. If you’re an investor who needs financing on more than two rental properties, then you’ll need to be careful! Some lenders make two their maximum per individual and some go as high as five. Some may not even have a limit! It’s important to consult your Brantford real estate agent about which lenders will give financing for the number of properties you’re looking to invest in.

Qualification ratios. Each lender will have specific criteria about what makes for a strong loan application. Some accept higher debt load to income levels and others care more about the potential of the property values than the actual applicant. This is another instance in which you’ll need to do your research; if you can find the lender that will prioritize your strengths, then you’re more likely to get financing!

Product offering. Make sure you ask what sort of client segment each lender focuses on. For some lenders, their focus tends to go towards clients that are self-employed or have difficult credit, and others may cater to people in a different scenario. It’s important to know which products each lender offers for your particular financial situation before you approach them for a loan.

Rental income. If you’re an investor who is looking to buy a rental property, then many lenders will look at rental income and factor that in to whether or not they should give you a loan. What varies by lender is the percentage of rental income that they will use for evaluation. Usually, lenders factor in between 50-80% of a rental income in a loan application and consider it extra income or rental expenses. Know what percentage you want each lender to consider ahead of time and use that number to find the right lender.

Financing structure. Are you looking to invest under a corporate structure or independently? Different lenders prefer different forms of financing, so it’s important to make sure that you approach a lender that is most willing to work with your finance plan.

When it comes to picking a lender, using these seven factors to make your decision will serve you much better than simply picking the people who have the lowest interest rates. In order to complete a transaction successfully in the Brantford real estate market, it is important to look out for your best interest and make sure you are working with people who are the most experienced in dealing with your particular situation.

As a Brantford real estate agent, I have many years of experience that have allowed me to work with several different kinds of clients. If you have any questions about what it takes to obtain financing, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d be happy to help you in any way I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

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What Will 2012 Hold For Brantford Real Estate?

2011-12-29T21:13:00.000-08:00

As we begin the New Year in Brantford, home buyers and home sellers have the same question: Is now a good time to buy, sell, or invest in real estate? To answer that, let’s take a look at the most recent market summary from the Brantford Regional Real Estate Association:

Home values in the Brantford region are up by 7% from a year ago. The average price for a home as of November 2011 was $238,114.

The inventory of homes for sale is lower than a year ago. At the end of November 2011, we had 631 active residential listings on the market; that’s down 6% from the prior year.

The inventory of homes for sale stands at a 3.5 month supply. This means that at the present pace of sales, we’d clear the shelves in just about 90 days if nothing else came on the market.

This is the tightest real estate market we’ve seen in two years. If you’re a Brantford home seller, it would be like comparing it to a perfect cup of coffee; steaming, but not too hot. (If you’re a Brantford home buyer, you may be a little frustrated that you’re still in line and haven’t gotten your coffee yet.)

Total sales activity – a separate measurement from pricing – is up 3% from a year ago.

How does it look for the future? Different economists hold different opinions, but some are saying we’re in a sweet spot; the market is healthy and active, values are appreciating, but we’re not throwing all caution to the wind and seeing rampant speculation. It was the latter situation that contributed to the housing bust in the U.S.

Naturally, if there are any widespread economic shake-ups, it could affect the real estate market. Home values are best when employment is stable and people feel financially secure. Canada is not immune to the impacts of global financial concerns, but thus far we’ve weathered things pretty well.

Is now a good time to buy, sell, or invest in real estate? As your Brantford real estate agent, I would say yes, so long as your personal finances are in order and you’re not going out on a limb. Sometimes changes happen in a market that cannot be predicted, so above all, consider what is right for you and your needs in the long run.

Based on our recent market activity, 2012 appears to hold a balance of opportunity for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Brantford, or you have questions about Brant County real estate, give me a call! I will be happy to help you.

Wishing you all the best in the New Year,

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10 Remodeling Tips For Your Brantford Home!

2011-12-22T13:36:00.000-08:00

Keeping your Brantford home in good condition protects your property value and saves you money in the long run. But if you're looking at remodeling, it's important to think about the return on the investment and your reasons for going into the project.

For example, if your family has outgrown your house, but you really love your Brantford neighborhood and don't wish to move, it could make sense to remodel the attic to add a bedroom. In this case your motive is for long-term personal use and enjoyment. What it pays back when you sell the home is a secondary concern.

If your want to update your home for the purpose of resale value, then you'll want to know these 10 tips from Home and Garden TV:

1. Painting is the best return for the money, if done tastefully with neutral colors, and applied with professional care. Your return on this could be up to 300%.

2. Kitchen remodeling is fraught with the risk of going overboard. But it's also the center of a home and very important to a Brantford homebuyer. Updating cabinets, countertops, and appliances to bring your home up to date could help it sell, but don't make the mistake creating a kitchen that belongs in a higher-end house. You could expect anywhere from 68% to 120% back on your investment.

3. If your home has one bathroom, but the other homes in your area and price range have two or more, you might consider adding one. Returns can be 80% to 130%.

4. Remodeling existing bathrooms to make them bright, clean, and modern is a good idea too. You could get 65% to 120% back on this.

5. If your home is small, consider adding livable square footage by finishing the attic or basement. Your return could be 50% to 90%.

6. Window and door replacements can improve safety, security, and appearance. Rule of thumb: don't get too fancy for the rest of the house. Returns average 50% to 90%.

7. Adding an outdoor deck can give you a return of 65% to 90%.

8. Adding bedrooms, family rooms, sunrooms or garages will give you back 50% to 83%.

9. Adding a home office holds a potential return of 60% to 73%.

10. Remodeling to "go green" or adding energy efficiency is tricky. Things like better insulation or installing a new furnace are crowd-pleasers. Solar panels and tankless hot water heaters are expensive and can daunt buyers who are not used to them. There's no average return on this one, so stick with common-sense upgrades that can add appeal.

As your Brantford real estate agent, I work with buyers and sellers at all levels of the Brantford Real Estate Market. If you are torn between remodeling your home or putting it on the market as-is, why not talk to me to see what your home is worth today? My experience with Brant County Real Estate can guide you through your real estate questions. Contact me today and I'll be happy to help you.

Wishing you the best this holiday season,

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Just Listed: 14-601 Conklin Road, Brantford - $249,900: Townhome Living At It's Finest

2011-12-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

Offered At: $249,900
Bedrooms: 2 + 1 in Basement
Bathrooms: 1.5

Condo living at it's best. Quality built Van El home finished from top to bottom. All brick, single car garage, 2+1 beds, 2 baths. Inviting open concept kitchen with island, sliding doors to deck, main floor laundry. Finished lower level with spacious rec room, 3 pc bath, bedroom & 5x6 vapor insulated bar with cooling unit. Appliances negotiable. Quick possession available.

Property Features

Central A/C	Central heat	Living room
Bonus/Rec room	Dishwasher	Basement
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

Photos

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Holiday Safety Tips in Brantford!

2011-12-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

The holidays are supposed to a joyous time of year. We get to give back, enjoy an abundance of wonderful food, and most of all, spend time with our loved ones. But believe it or not, there are plenty of ways to turn what is intended to be a happy time into trips to the emergency room. While my forte is selling Brant County Real Estate, it is also my job as a Brantford real estate agent to make sure the people of the Brantford community are using safe practices all year round. Before you bust out the shovel, consider these common winter safety hazards.

Christmas Tree Mold: Sniffling and sneezing are just a part of winter, right? Yes, but not always. If your sniffles and sneezes follow the arrival of your Christmas tree, it’s possible that it could be a result of skyrocketing mold spore counts. An easy alternative would be to invest in a fake tree, but for those of you who value the presence of a real tree, hose it down and spray it with some mold-resistant sealant.

Fires: There’s nothing better than a cozy night by the fire while opening presents. This year, keep a conscious mind of what you’re throwing into the fire. Tossing wrapping paper into the fire may seem harmless, but it could actually end up setting the whole room ablaze (I’m just sayin). Never light candles near the Christmas tree, as this action is responsible for thousands of house fires every year. It is also important to keep your holiday tree within a safe distance of the fireplace. In fact, consider adding glass fireplace doors as an extra safety measure.

Snow Shoveling: While it’s important to keep walkways, driveways and steps clear of ice and snow to prevent slips and falls, it is equally important to make sure you’re shoveling correctly to prevent back and other bodily injuries. Keep your knees bent, your back straight, your stomach muscles tight and lift with your legs.

Tricky Packaging: It’s happened to all of us. We are so excited about a gift we just opened, and as we rip and tear at the packaging we und up causing minor injuries. Sometimes these minor injuries can escalate into a larger issue, as a large percentage of holiday trips to the emergency room are a result of attempts to open difficult product packaging. Is it really necessary to use that many layers of plastic? Keep a pair of scissors handy during the opening process and make sure to point them away from your hands and body.

Holiday Lights: It’s never a bad idea to inspect your holiday lights before you display them around the house. Be sure to check for frayed wires, broken bulbs or sockets, or loose connections. These common mishaps are indications of fire hazards and if you’re not careful could land you or a loved one in the hospital. Keep in mind to use as few power cords as possible and make sure to unplug them when they’re not in use.

While it may be hard to believe, these things happen more often than you would think -- even in Brantford and Brant County. Stay safe this holiday season by staying away from vigorous or straining tasks. Stay mindful of practical safety precautions around electrical equipment, and practice fire safety when necessary. If you do have to take part in something that could potentially be dangerous, make sure you are surrounded with the proper tools and materials in case anything goes awry.

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68 Greenfield - Price Just Reduced to $295,000!! Incredible Home in Fantastic Area!

2011-12-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

Offered At: $295,000
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 2.5

Incredible home in a fantastic location priced right. Granny - suite possibilities. 6 bedrooms for the large family or income property potential(could be 7 bedrooms). Owner bought this home because of the prime location - close to schools, shopping & transit plus highway. Raised ranch with large addition consisting of private master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. New driveway 2009. Lots of room, big lot. Priced to sell.

Property Features

Central A/C, Central Heat, Fireplace , Walk-in Closet, Hardwood floor, Tile floor, Family Room, Living Room, Dining Room, Dishwasher, Stove/Oven, Microwave, Basement, Laundry Area, Nice Yard

Photos

Living Room

Kitchen

Dining Area

Family Room

Bedroom

Bathroom

Recreation Room

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186 Ontario St - Price Just Reduced to $153,999!! Four Bedroom Home Perfect For First Time Home Buyer or Investor in Brantford!

2011-12-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Front View

Offered At:      $153,999 - Just Reduced!
Bedrooms:     4
Bathrooms:    1

Excellent value!! First time buyers or folks looking for - inexpensive property. Great investment. Owners bought this home because of location. Close to schools, Grand River Trails, Parsons Park and quiet area. Solid 4 bedroom home with many features. Huge deck 15'x14', 100 amp service, new shingles approx. 3 years ago. Could be a cozy home or as a rental investment.

Property Features

Central A/C, Central Heat, Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, Hardwood Flooring, Tile Flooring, Living Room, Dining Area, Basement, Interior Laundry Room, Large Deck, Newer Roof, Nice Yard

Front View

Living Room

Dining Area

Kitchen

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

Bedroom 4

Full Bathroom

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Home Buying Dos and Don'ts in Brantford

2011-12-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

Perusing the Brantford Real Estate Market for your next home is fun and exciting: you get to see an abundance of homes with a variety of features, you have the opportunity to imagine yourself in a new place, and you get the chance to explore different parts of Brant County you may not have considered moving to in the past. Within all of the excitement, it’s easy for a Brantford homebuyer to make a simple mistake or overlook an otherwise obvious flaw. A home’s décor can be inviting during a showing, but it shouldn’t be the reason you buy the house. Likewise, the home may not seem like it needs a lot of work, but hiring an inspector is still imperative. As an experienced Brant County Real Estate Agent, I have the benefit of knowing the most important dos and don’ts of shopping for your Brantford home.

The Dos:

Take your time/Look at several houses: Even if you are absolutely in love with the first house you see, take the time to consider other options. While the first house may seem like your dream home, there might be a hidden gem that’s about to hit the Brantford market. Often times Brantford homebuyers rush into purchasing a home and find out it’s not what they expected. Look at it this way: would you marry the first person you went on a date with? Probably not. If you buy a home without comparing it to other properties in the area, you may wind up overpaying or miss out on something better. Make it a point to walk through 3-4 homes. If the first home is still the winner, make an offer.

Research the neighborhood: While of course the house is important, it’s even more important that the neighborhood accommodates your wants, needs and lifestyle. When you find “the one” spend some time in the neighborhood and make sure it’s right for you. Talk to neighbors, visit restaurants and stores, and take a walk or a bike ride throughout the area. If you can’t imagine your life there, then it’s not the neighborhood for you. For more tips, check out my blog on How to Choose a Neighborhood in Brantford.

Buy for your needs: When searching for a Brantford home, it’s sometimes difficult to put your needs above your wants. While you want the stunning fireplace in the home on Smith Street, you need the convenience of being close to the elementary school with the house on Main Street. On average, people tend to live in one house for approximately 7-10 years. That means you have to consider your needs in both the present and future. Although a 2-bedroom home may have a dazzling gourmet kitchen, it may not suit your needs if your family grows.

The Don’ts:

Buy a house for its décor: The current owners of your potential new home have great style. But what does that mean for your style? While their impeccable taste in furnishings may make for an exciting walk-through, what is the house going to look like when they pack up their pristine sofa and the home is replaced with your own furnishings? Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure you have great taste, too. But it’s important to notice whether or not you will need to repaint the entire house to match what you’re bringing to the table. Instead of being transfixed by the décor, focus on the home’s functionality and whether or not it will be efficient for your lifestyle.

Trust everything you read in an ad: It’s no secret that real estate ads are meant to grab your attention and reel you in for a closer look. Brush up on real estate ad copy lingo and read between the lines when you’re reading the classifieds. If a description includes the word “cozy” that probably means the house is pretty small. Watch out for “as-is” because that means the house might need a lot of work, or that there could be an underlying issue with the home’s overall structure and foundation.

Waive an inspection: Home inspectors can see what the average homebuyer can’t. Things like plumbing or wiring issues cannot be seen with the naked eye, but with the help of an inspector can be brought to the surface. If a seller is eager to get their house sold, they may try to do a shoddy job of patching the place up to hide flaws until the deal closes. While the cost of hiring an inspector can be pricey, it will save you time and money in the long run. Look beyond that new coat of paint and find out what work the house really needs.

There are plenty of great homes in the Brantford area. With the help of your Brant County Real Estate agent, finding the perfect home for you will be a breeze. For more information on Brant County Real Estate, or if you are interested in buying or selling a Brantford home, stay in touch with my blog or contact me directly. I’d be more than happy to guide you through the entire process.

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Avoid These Red Flags When Shopping For Your Brantford Home!

2011-12-01T11:58:00.000-08:00

Shopping for a new home is an exciting time: you get to move in to a brand-new place with a fresh environment and atmosphere. You also get to welcome a new neighborhood, such as Brantford, ON, into your life and call it home. Sometimes, in the excitement of making a big life change, many Brantford homebuyers would forget to look at some key indicators of a home. This can be a costly error.

In this real estate market, many home sellers are motivated and eager to get their home off the market. As a result, they may not disclose all aspects of the home to you. That’s why, as a Brantford real estate agent, I make it a priority to look out for my buyers’ best interests. Part of that is telling buyers exactly what to look for during their home search.

As a Brantford home buyer, you need to be on the lookout for red flags and things about the property that may need maintenance or repairs. If you don’t spend time inspecting the property thoroughly, then you could wind up with some costly repairs or major damages. Here are a few red flags you should look out for during your home search:

•    Are people leaving the street? If you’re seeing a lot of “For Sale” signs on the street or homes that look boarded up or neglected, then you may want to consider passing over the home. There’s a reason people are leaving the street. Get the scoop from the neighbors. It may help you avoid a bad investment.

•    Are plants growing in the gutters? Mediocre maintenance is a sign of a neglected home. Once you move in, you’re going to have a lot of work ahead of you if you have to patch up shoddy maintenance jobs done by the previous owners. Be on the lookout for this and ask the sellers to take care of it before moving in.

•    How solid is the foundation? Take a look at the yard. Is it sloping towards the house? That could cause water to run into the basement and create costly damages. Scour the foundation of each house you’re interested in looking at further. If you notice a lot of cracks or signs of wear, you will be stuck with some expensive renovations or maintenance fees.

•    Use your nose. Are you noticing strange odors in the interior or exterior of the home? Do you smell excessive bowls of potpourri? Both are major red flags, as it means the home may have mold or other issues, and the smell may never fully leave once the owners leave.

•    Does only one wall have fresh paint? Fresh paint jobs are a plus, but if you’re only noticing it on one wall, then chances are the owner is trying to cover up an issue, whether it be water damage or mildew. If you notice only one wall has fresh paint, be sure to ask the seller why and have your home inspector take a closer look at it.

The bottom line is this: If you’re truly interested in moving in to a Brantford home, then you need to get a home inspection. Getting an inspection will help you avoid being stuck with a home that involves costly maintenance and major renovations right away. Moving is stressful enough…you don’t need to add home damages to the mix.

As a Brantford real estate agent, I make it a priority to educate homebuyers on what they should be looking for during their search for the perfect property. Red flags such as these are important to look out for. If you have any questions, or are considering buying a home on the Brantford real estate market, don’t hesitate to contact me! I have several years of experience in real estate, and I’ve seen and heard it all. I hope to hear from you soon.

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Use Creative Finance Strategies for Your First Brantford Investment!

2011-11-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

Given the high number of distressed and affordable properties on the Brantford real estate market, many buyers are looking to break into the investment aspect of the industry. There’s no doubt that money can be made off of investing in real estate. Using the right Brantford real estate agent to help you find the right investment properties is a great start to breaking in to the industry, but there’s one obstacle that leaves some Brantford property investors a little bit puzzled: financing.

While the current state of the market is healthy and interest rates are low, lending restrictions have gotten tighter across the board. This leaves many who are interested in investing in Brantford real estate at a stalemate: how are they supposed to make money off of investing in properties if they can’t get the financing to buy these homes in the first place? As a Brantford real estate agent, I have two words in response to this question: get creative. In order to make it as an investor in this real estate market, you need to think outside of the box when it comes to obtaining financing. Here are a couple ideas that should help you get the loans you need for your first investment.

• Get yourself a new home. This might sound a bit backward. If you’re looking to break in to the market, then why would you invest in a brand-new Brantford property? The answer is that interest rates are currently at an all-time low, and many lenders are only requiring 5% down payment on a property. If you can put that money down and rent out your own place, then you’ve successfully broken in to the investment business and are starting to get a cash flow on your old property that you’ve rented out.

• Get a HELOC. “HELOC” stands for “Home Equity Line of Credit.” A HELOC is similar to any other line of credit. You use the equity of your home as collateral, and as you start to pay off your mortgage, your credit limit increases. You can withdraw credit and make payments whenever you want. This is a great way to come up with the funds for your first investment property and still be able to keep your old home.

Using some of these creative tactics to obtain financing for your first investment will help you break into the Brantford real estate market. Once you get your foot in the door, you can build up your investment portfolio and start seeing a profit from your purchases. The key is to educate yourself. Do your research on any and every option possible and proceed with the one that best fits your situation. Doing this will help you learn the ins and outs of Brantford real estate much faster. The sooner you dive in to your first investment, the sooner you will see the profits start to come in.

As always, the most important thing about starting a new real estate venture is to make sure that you have the right industry professional by your side. As a Brantford real estate agent, I can help you navigate your way through the properties on the Brantford real estate market and find the ones that are right for investment. I’m always looking to help new investors get started in the business, so if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me! I’d be happy to give you some advice and give you the names of some of my contacts in the business. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Just Listed: 186 Ontario Street - Four Bedroom in Brantford - Great for First Time Home Buyer or Investor!

2011-11-22T15:44:00.000-08:00

Front View

Offered At:      $159,000
Bedrooms:     4
Bathrooms:    1

Excellent value!! First time buyers or folks looking for - inexpensive property. Great investment. Owners bought this home because of location. Close to schools, Grand River Trails, Parsons Park and quiet area. Solid 4 bedroom home with many features. Huge deck 15'x14', 100 amp service, new shingles approx. 3 years ago. Could be a cozy home or as a rental investment.

Property Features

Central A/C, Central Heat, Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, Hardwood Flooring, Tile Flooring, Living Room, Dining Area, Basement, Interior Laundry Room, Large Deck, Newer Roof, Nice Yard

Front View

Living Room

Dining Area

Kitchen

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

Bedroom 4

Full Bathroom

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