tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13566297718825750492024-02-18T20:53:53.861-05:00Toronto Real Estate Blog by Claire GordonMarket trends, differing views of the Toronto real estate market and changing and emerging neighbourhoods are my focus.Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-28647050699054179102012-07-05T15:28:00.000-04:002012-08-23T12:16:29.678-04:00My listing featured in the Toronto Star<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I have some very exciting news to share with you today. </span>My
listing at 33 Kelso has been featured in the Real Estate section of today's Toronto Star!!! </span></h6>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">I am very proud to be associated with this wonderful property. Not a detail has been spared in this exquisite home! This
home was designed and completely renovated by locally coveted firm Eurodale
Developments, Toronto’s Renovator of the Year (2011 by BILD). </span></h6>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Due to the <span style="color: black;">high-energy
efficiency level of the systems, the insulation and window/door package that
was installed, this house will cost less to operate in comparison to other
homes on the market. Located in the Bedford Park community, </span>this house
is within walking distance to Avenue Road, local shops, bakeries, and
restaurants. Please
view the link for more information on this amazing property.</span></h6>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Qds7rHL3aWGdtli0MTTj48SFPEChCtR5HCUrMlWKII-06qNHjW1mm9GqW8eb7q5VvLi67n1DX43D5h3n3rSfQ6KP6G3qseSMtY3KCRhn94VjcJGxniuNz1IdLfaYF5UJcDuZ6Qu3PHg/s1600/MainExterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Qds7rHL3aWGdtli0MTTj48SFPEChCtR5HCUrMlWKII-06qNHjW1mm9GqW8eb7q5VvLi67n1DX43D5h3n3rSfQ6KP6G3qseSMtY3KCRhn94VjcJGxniuNz1IdLfaYF5UJcDuZ6Qu3PHg/s320/MainExterior.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thestar.com/yourhome/news%20&%20features/article/1221676--home-renovations-should-cover-functioning-of-house" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">http://www.thestar.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>yourhome/news%20&%20features/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>article/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>1221676--home-renovations-shoul<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>d-cover-functioning-of-house</span></a></h6>
Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-28080633053839025622012-06-28T10:00:00.000-04:002012-06-27T07:05:33.307-04:00End of June not such a happy time for some childrenThe end of June, when most children can't wait for the holidays, can be a very unhappy time for some kids who are moving in the summer. This may be the last time they will be with their friends. Don't wait for moving day to introduce your child to the new neighbourhood and to new friends. Perhaps the following ideas may help:<br />
<ul>
<li>Enrol your child in summer camp or lessons in their new neighbourhood.</li>
<li>Play in the playground and go swimming in the pool near the new house.</li>
<li>Older children can use Google maps to locate parks, movie theatres, malls nearby. </li>
<li>Use Skype to maintain contact with long distance friends.</li>
<li>Explore the city and neighbourhood. See <a href="http://www.toronto.com/guide/family" target="_blank">Family Guide to Toronto</a>.</li>
</ul>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-91588495634282530472012-06-25T18:01:00.000-04:002012-06-25T18:05:46.070-04:00The home as a system<br />
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>Wake Up Buyers!!! Forget the wall
colour and focus on the systems in a home!</u></b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Many
buyers in the Toronto market are getting too wrapped up in the aesthetics of a
home and not taking the time to consider the internal systems and how these
systems affect the physical and financial health of the occupants. Most buyers
and owners do not realize that often builders are putting materials and systems
into new and renovated homes that are to their detriment. Eurodale
Developments, winners of BILD Renovator of the Year refuse to do so as exemplified
in their latest home renovation at 33 Kelso Avenue.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuZVnumS8VbguBFRLM3utpIuTM661pT8fP8PM6W4bLew9dogKUfInK_TFVb68eRPOw1JrTx8xmGx-OVtCnbhc7WAdzlHO6H8yuAdxhkdbvisVJArO-29jsi0codLYqOJtJPbolfeEuxk/s1600/old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuZVnumS8VbguBFRLM3utpIuTM661pT8fP8PM6W4bLew9dogKUfInK_TFVb68eRPOw1JrTx8xmGx-OVtCnbhc7WAdzlHO6H8yuAdxhkdbvisVJArO-29jsi0codLYqOJtJPbolfeEuxk/s1600/old.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brendan Charters and Jim Cunningham
co-founders of Eurodale Development chose to take a holistic approach to
renovating this house in the Avenue and Lawrence community. They treated
moisture and air management through waterproofing and an air/vapour barrier,
they created air sealing and insulation upgrades to existing non insulated
masonry walls with high density spray foam (to avoid potential mould issues
with cellulose based insulation) and also increased efficiencies with a high
efficiency boiler to heat floors and domestic hot water. This allows for reduced
dependency on the forced air heating system and the elimination of a wasteful
traditional hot water tank. Complete air sealing with foam and caulking and
tape in areas of air and vapour barriers, as well as new energy star window and
door installations were a sizeable replacement to the old leaky units. Once
they had a tight home, they addressed air quality with material selections such
as formaldehyde free cabinetry and low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints
to reduce off gassing. The ventilation systems in the home were also improved
to ensure proper exchange of air inside the living space.<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuf0SeRwiVXRvjAfkoMmOWxF0-9cjezZwYIJdiR_qC8ruvpFSsQ9KbRsB6uxoe0GzMGKIbSs0duftWyMnTKMtPiVHuA6o04bhcN_3wtSVDNukP9h_t0X4ZQ831uzXXJJWv6IyDq8ZtLI4/s1600/new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuf0SeRwiVXRvjAfkoMmOWxF0-9cjezZwYIJdiR_qC8ruvpFSsQ9KbRsB6uxoe0GzMGKIbSs0duftWyMnTKMtPiVHuA6o04bhcN_3wtSVDNukP9h_t0X4ZQ831uzXXJJWv6IyDq8ZtLI4/s1600/new.jpg" /></a><br />
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Due to these upgrades it will now
cost the owners substantially less to run the home. It will also be more
comfortable as there will be less of the exterior forces of nature able to
affect the humidity levels and temperatures inside the space.</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">In a hot real estate market like this,
location, most commonly referred to as the most important factor in any
real-estate deal, may not prove to be everything – you need to start looking at
how the house works as a system. The house at 33 Kelso Avenue has both a great
location and great system design, making it the perfect combination.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For more details on this listed
property check out: </span><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://www.33kelsoavenue.ca/"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">www.33kelsoavenue.ca</span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-11821751777799072092012-04-04T09:00:00.000-04:002012-04-04T09:01:14.457-04:00Moving to Toronto Series - I have to be on the subway line. Where should I live in Toronto?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFC7aEukLzw4jI2lxFF8glrRhCTD1MectK0xoI8h1PjorBfu9tsAb_ZYaRIiR8Gfu2mCUUYdgZZSe4FTTRZpXd4vvCvZ-KcS9nhadkxEwegCZKLhrdDj-lojW07B6H_MxrPcsIQuoOCUc/s1600/maps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFC7aEukLzw4jI2lxFF8glrRhCTD1MectK0xoI8h1PjorBfu9tsAb_ZYaRIiR8Gfu2mCUUYdgZZSe4FTTRZpXd4vvCvZ-KcS9nhadkxEwegCZKLhrdDj-lojW07B6H_MxrPcsIQuoOCUc/s200/maps.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www3.ttc.ca/Routes/index.jsp">TTC Route Map</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leslieville" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNYGNj6qbS_1B8cHj7A_QgAb85n7d0b3ODNAvU62RVsNWfNA1WQMho1HC4HswT_lNzoSbWVNxzUubSb2pwN81DC0-jAGQ95DBkkT6NjEnSMmfd3M3gkGz51zTBL70zpfK2-ccRz-694M/s200/cgpi__000000074%255B1%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_366130394"></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border: currentColor;">
How to get around in Toronto? Living close to work is one of the main reasons people want to live in Central Toronto.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_177887161">Riverdale</a>, Yorkville, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_177887161">Summerhill</a>, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_177887161">North Toronto</a>, High Park, Davisville are some of the neighbourhoods close to the subway lines. Street cars link the Beach, Leslieville, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_177887161">Parkdale</a>, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_177887161">Roncesville</a>, King East and King West to the downtown. See the TTC (Toronto Transit Commision) maps.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">See Toronto Neighbourhoods</span> <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/high-park">High Park</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #741b47;">See</span> <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/high-park">King West Buzz</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">See </span> <a href="http://www.kingwestbuzz.com/?p=21">Types of Properties available in King West</a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-28923732930133887452012-04-02T06:36:00.000-04:002012-03-31T10:27:24.152-04:00Moving to Toronto - Get the lay of the land<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: #660000;"></span></strong><span style="color: navy; font-size: xx-small;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF2EP_FD02CP0C412SEZ27H2kRROVfWde-BJ_m2HhRc1KzsT8wW9avGBzffmeVw-ZjwjStNXZTmovK-O5RsCZd3ZGwIsNrvGu6td-pSQ7I4hlzS8uLjkdSx6j1ap5si3TmSgVCEWtzyw/s1600-h/sear_fullmap.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299275945604393314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF2EP_FD02CP0C412SEZ27H2kRROVfWde-BJ_m2HhRc1KzsT8wW9avGBzffmeVw-ZjwjStNXZTmovK-O5RsCZd3ZGwIsNrvGu6td-pSQ7I4hlzS8uLjkdSx6j1ap5si3TmSgVCEWtzyw/s320/sear_fullmap.jpg" style="display: block; height: 193px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><span style="color: #660000;">Find your way in Toronto</span></div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Neighbourhoods farthest south near </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/beaches"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Lake Ontario </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> were the oldest communities.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The further you go north or east and west the newer the neighbourhoods are.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leslieville"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">South and Central </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">neighbourhoods date from the 1800s. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">North to midtown around </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/davisville"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Davisville</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> were built in the early 20th century.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
Go further </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/northtoronto"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">north</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> to North York where </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/contact-us"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Don Mills </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">was built in 1960s -70s.</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leaside"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Leaside's</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> homes built <span style="color: black;">in</span> the 1940s are almost entirely renovated and enlarged.</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leaside"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">East</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> and </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/high-park"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">west </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">communities follow the same pattern.</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/riverdale"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Toronto subways </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> run:</span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> north from downtown to North York</span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> from downtown northwest to North York </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> east/west from midtown to Scarborough to Etobioke </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> east through southern North York</span><br />
<ul><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Highways run across the waterfront, north on the Scarborough/North York border, across lower part of North York and along the Etobicoke border. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Among those older homes are new condominium developments mainly confined to the main arteries. Older houses and even whole neighbourhoods have been renovated. The old downtown and lakefront have been taken over by </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingwest"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">condos</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> and revitalization in some previously deteriorating neighbourhoods has resulted in new infill projects of modern townhouses and </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingeast"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">conversions </span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">of older factories and warehouses.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">See </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/northtoronto"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Toronto neighbourhoods</span></a></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-size: xx-small;">Source: Map from the Toronto Real Estate Board</span>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-63028360978287330102012-04-01T14:21:00.000-04:002012-04-01T14:21:00.610-04:00Relocating to Toronto - How can I replace my old neighbourhood?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDBX0rNhFodfIpvrJeB-3zQCgnF1lpxc9K53X9Qm2Rw__tpUlKQZvh2t2Uq-jOn89TjhSnn5JfwbRraEJyFdZOWxpBlOpw14QXL203hY8AxRVNyupUG-ppxybkLKZU7Fei5rWk91YCyI/s1600/cgpi__000000076%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDBX0rNhFodfIpvrJeB-3zQCgnF1lpxc9K53X9Qm2Rw__tpUlKQZvh2t2Uq-jOn89TjhSnn5JfwbRraEJyFdZOWxpBlOpw14QXL203hY8AxRVNyupUG-ppxybkLKZU7Fei5rWk91YCyI/s1600/cgpi__000000076%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div>
Is your biggest concern transferring your family to Toronto and finding a suitable Toronto neighbourhood for you and your children? Even though it is barely April moving the family to Toronto for the next school year is coming up quickly.<br />
<br />
Whether it is an unexpected surprise or the opportunity you have been waiting for, moving to the Toronto Metropolitan area of 5.5 million people stretching over 630 sq kilometers is a very intimidating prospect. Throughout the spring, I will be writing a series giving a general view of how Toronto works and giving some practical pointers for newcomers.</div>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods">See Toronto neighbourhoods</a></span>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-43583975080213498922012-03-14T05:35:00.000-04:002012-03-14T15:38:28.341-04:00Top ten Toronto neighbourhoods for runners<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Spring is here and the runners are out in Toronto -</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> The t</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">op ten Toronto neighbourhoods close to large outdoor spaces are:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">High Park, Ronscevalles</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Swansea</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leaside">North Leaside</a></span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Mt Pleasant East</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Lawrence Park East side</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/beaches">The Beach</a></span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingwest">Waterfront</a> (may have to ride the ferry)</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Leslie/Lawrence Area</span></div>
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<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Humber Bay</span></div>
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<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Beltline central ravines neighbourhoods -West of Davisville, Sth Rosedale and Moore Park</span></div>
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</ul>
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<span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods">See Toronto neighbourhoods</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.toronto.ca/cycling/map/index.htm">See Toronto Running Routes Map</a></span>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-19650764119567404482012-03-01T11:52:00.000-05:002012-02-27T17:27:51.213-05:00First time buyer - Will emotions cloud your judgement when buying your first house?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
A quick property purchase can have unwanted consequences.<br />
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<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;">To help avoid missteps take a look at the following:</span></div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Look carefully at your own finances and don't underestimate the costs </div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Be pre-approved for a mortgage and shop around.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Really think about where you want to live and factor in costs beyond the housing cost e.g schooling, transportation costs, proximity to amenities.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Do a home inspection.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Contact a real estate salesperson to introduce you to neighbourhoods and housing options.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a plan before entering into negotiations.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Read blogs and web sites about Toronto Real Estate.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.torontorealestatevlog.com/search/label/Buyers%20FAQs"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: xx-small;">Video Blog - Buyers Faqs</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://blog.findahomeintoronto.com/search/label/First%20Time%20Buyer"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">First time Buyers Series</span></a><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: xx-small;">Toronto Neighbourhoods</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: xx-small;">Claire Gordon's website - Buyers Guide</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buyer-services"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: xx-small;">Buyers Services</span></a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-25330322468606805672012-02-27T09:39:00.000-05:002012-02-27T11:26:03.853-05:00First time Buyers in Toronto - Finding your first home - The Search<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finding your first home in Toronto could be as easy as opening your email. On the other hand searching for your first home can be a frustrating and time consuming experience.<br />
<br />
Toronto properties for sale are often listed on the Multiple Listing Service Service(MLS) that can be searched by neighbourhood, price, property size and other features. This can be difficult.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The alternative is to ask for a <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/listings">personalized search </a>and receive new listings as they are posted. These pre-selected listings will actually meet your search criteria and require no other effort than opening your email. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home">Claire Gordon's Buyer's Services</a></span></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-77079005209579430622012-02-25T07:59:00.012-05:002012-02-27T09:29:51.790-05:00First Time Buyers in Toronto Real Estate - Use your RRSP for First Home Purchase<div style="text-align: justify;">Help for the first time home buyer in Toronto.<br />
<br />
Even if your spouse or common-law partner has owned a property previously, <u>you</u> can still qualify as a first time buyer and for the Government of Canada's first time home buyers' programme (HBP) and use your RRSP for your purchase. Check out the<a href="http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/rrsp-reer/hbp-rap/cndtns/frst-eng.html"> rules </a>.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The amount of money that you can withdraw from a Registered Retirement Saving Plan (RRSP) without a tax penalty has been increased. Now first-time <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home">buyers</a> can withdraw $25,000 tax-free from a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to purchase or build a new home (up from $20,000).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buyers-info">See Claire Gordon's buyers' guide </a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-43996101772932946312012-02-21T07:31:00.004-05:002012-02-27T08:36:43.155-05:00First time Home Buyers in Toronto<div style="text-align: justify;">Are you ready to purchase your first property? Being familiar with these initial costs: Mortgage Down Payment, <a href="http://www.torontorealestatevlog.com/2010/02/deposit-on-offer-what-when-how.html">Offer Deposit, </a>Land Transfer Tax, legal fees and moving costs is great preparation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Try out the mortgage and land transfer calculators and view other tips on my <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home">Buying a Home </a>page or view <a href="http://www.torontorealestatevlog.com/2010/02/deposit-on-offer-what-when-how.html">Claire Gordon Deposit on an Offer: What? When ? How?</a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-63012889188154528712012-02-20T05:48:00.006-05:002012-03-14T14:41:31.593-04:00First time Home Buyers in Toronto Real Estate - Are you confused?<div style="text-align: justify;">
How can you define your ideal property and neighbourhood? </div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"> Establish your price range, </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buyer-informational-videos"><span style="color: #741b47;">define and prioritize your wants and needs </span></a><span style="color: #741b47;">.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"> Evaluate your current lifestyle and any impending lifestyle changes</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"> List the amenities that are most important to you in a </span><span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingwest">neighbourhood</a>.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"> List the features of a home that you want and fit your lifestyle</span>.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now the fun part - divide the list into <em>must haves </em>and <em>would like to have </em>and check out the <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leslieville">neighbourhoods</a>!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
See video - <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods" style="font-size: small;">Claire Gordon Neighbourhoods</a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-15454923325272344032011-02-28T09:35:00.002-05:002011-02-28T09:35:00.579-05:00New to Canada ? Buying your first home? What newcomers need to know.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500803760575628386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegTyaF5xajU1_NtVbHcmCiqz37Sp80yfj28dF4bX3sjxwHK4V02HwlwZT-YzK3gQRYpUMhqYpo4X_QGqkS8snsrotPj7-3AeI1hwfNp2GO2bQbexhc46i56cFjpy0uEG56S5gV6MPR_U/s200/66144%5B1%5D.jpg" style="float: right; height: 165px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 125px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">We all have friends, neighbours, work colleagues or acqu<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_999571679"></span><span id="goog_999571680"></span>aintances who are new to Canada. They may not know that the publication: <span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47;">Buying Your First Home in Canada: What newcomers Need to Know</span> is a d<a href="https://www03.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/catalog/productDetail.cfm?lang=en&cat=157&itm=18&sid=15056ced35fe4a0fa4fa1cf5b6a85fb0&fr=1280753452062"></a>ownloadable home buying guide in nine languages. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Often newcomers have partners or parents who are not fluent in English and would appreciate home buying information in their own languages. The free guide is in Punjabi, French, Arabic, Spanish,Urdu,Tagalog, Mandarin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">See <a href="http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/buho/index.cfm">Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation</a> - See Buying a Home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Also see <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buyers-info">Claire Gordon Buying Guide</a> and <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buyer-services">Buyers Services</a></span></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-27680832587144166422011-02-01T07:19:00.010-05:002012-03-14T14:42:50.953-04:00Moving to Toronto Series - Enjoy the city<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1JjPS7dG_wG6MLQ1xz1TzPfUp7exg6ENDcSXXW4ELka7WgSDKczQe1jgjSftAxHk3bJ3rOY296Ubmtxz9p1cpj2a-5YG6D3e9I8me_XcD9fyx7XW9Bx-2mveNk3Fixl8JcHNt34G0cE/s1600/MP900442295%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1JjPS7dG_wG6MLQ1xz1TzPfUp7exg6ENDcSXXW4ELka7WgSDKczQe1jgjSftAxHk3bJ3rOY296Ubmtxz9p1cpj2a-5YG6D3e9I8me_XcD9fyx7XW9Bx-2mveNk3Fixl8JcHNt34G0cE/s320/MP900442295%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingwest">Toronto</a> is alive downtown - exciting, young, modern, safe, walkable, liveable, centre of the city’s culture and entertainment areas, home of modern condos and <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingeast">renewed neighbourhoods </a>in the design, commercial and entertainment districts and on the lakefront.<br />
<a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingeast"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">See Toronto Neighbourhoods</span></a>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-26176998991170840542011-01-28T08:50:00.003-05:002011-01-28T08:50:00.914-05:00Moving to Toronto Series - A good move financially for the college kids<div style="text-align: justify;"> Some of Canada’s best universities and colleges are here, making a move to Toronto a good move financially. College age kids can live at home and attend one of the three universities in the city or one of our many colleges. </div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://ryerson%20unoversity/">Ryerson University</a></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.utoronto.ca/">University of Toronto</a></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.glendon.yorku.ca/">York University</a></div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;">Many choices are available right in the city. The University of Toronto has three campuses around the city, York University has two. Ryerson University is right downtown. Commuting to the Ontario Institute of Technology in Oshawa is also an option. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Great colleges, some with campuses around the city, are: Ontario College of Art, Seneca College and <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingeast">George Brown College</a><br />
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See <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/riverdale">Move to a Toronto neighbourhood</a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-52431865166901273612011-01-28T07:22:00.000-05:002012-03-14T14:43:26.067-04:00Moving to Toronto Series- What about my child's access to good schools in Toronto?One of the main concerns for parents moving to <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/northtoronto">Toronto </a>is their children's access to good schools.<br />
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Fortunately Toronto has two main publicly funded <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/recommended-resources">school boards </a>as well as many private schools and others affiliated with religious or cultural groups. Both public boards have programmes for special groups of children. <br />
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Teachers are generally highly qualified, many with M.Ed degrees or specialization certificates. Students are required to take standardized achievement tests in grades 3 and 6 and in High School and are required to follow the Ontario curriculum. <a href="http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/grades.html"><span style="font-size: 78%;">Elementary Curriculum > Ministry of Education</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">See <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leaside">Toronto neighbourhoods</a></span>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-31656735726626525242011-01-18T13:08:00.000-05:002011-01-19T02:09:29.456-05:00How will the reduction of the term of government backed insured mortgages affect you?<div style="text-align: justify;">To Torontonians considering longer mortgage time, changes announced by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty will, of course, mean higher monthly payments but also will significantly reduce the total interest paid and build equity faster in your homes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Changes</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">On new government insured mortgages the amortization period will not be permitted to be over 30 years. </span></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Borrowing amounts to refinance your mortgage will be changed as the maximum amount permitted will be 85 % of the value of your home, a 5% change.</span></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Changes also affect lines of credit (secured by homes)</span><span style="color: #4c1130;"> used for debts <u>unrelated to home purchases.</u> The government has stopped insurance backing of these .</span></div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: black;">Timeline</span> </span></div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Mortgage changes begin March 18,2011</span></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Lines of Credit changes begin April 18, 2011</span></div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home">Claire Gordon - Money matters</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">See "Canada’s well-regulated housing sector has been an important strength that allowed us...... and helped protect us from the worst of the recent global recession,” said Minister Flaherty. </span><a href="http://www.fin.gc.ca/n11/11-003-eng.asp"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Department of Finance Canada</span></a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-40283847200801598322011-01-16T07:30:00.000-05:002011-01-19T02:13:57.022-05:00Moving to Toronto Series- Seeing beyond the highrises and traffic<a href="http://www.toronto.ca/parks/recreation_facilities/discovery_walks/eastern.htm"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300781999436700930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTRUoGIsDG4IhSrVEPaXBvlKrpggJ4ajxyM8vCUDQS-ULcEsdtldaw_Iz8kJQAiJnemPR8bvmgKfyYPIRE_d-h5XmnkgVRPXHOVGYUMimkZ-I_aiAPWZ06bjK8_L6pspXmVhZXsbqf0k/s320/eastern.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 212px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<div align="center"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/beaches">The Beaches - Toronto</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">How are you going to survive without your view of the ocean or the mountains? Well, it will be different in Toronto! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, in <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/high-park">Toronto</a> even in the heart of the city, you can live by or overlook very large open, natural spaces.<span style="font-size: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 0px;"> </span></span>Toronto goes beyond the neighbourhood ball park, formal gardens or small patch of green for the children's playground. Many neighbourhoods are tucked in between <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/moorepark">Toronto's ravines </a>with surpringly open spaces and large natural areas where there are many kilometers of walking or biking trails<span style="font-size: 0px;"></span><span style="font-size: 0px;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course, there is also Lake Ontario, the boardwalk, <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/beaches">The Beaches</a>, Toronto Islands and the Martin Goodman Trail where <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/kingeast">downtowners</a> roller blade, sail, bike, picnic and generally bring the cottage to the city. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/neighbourhoods/leaside">See Toronto neighbourhoods - North Leaside</a></div>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-85046787457117213832010-08-30T08:00:00.018-04:002010-09-01T11:11:27.343-04:00HST Review - Do I pay the HST when I purchase my home in Toronto? The HST <u>does not</u> apply to the purchase of resale properties. However, it does apply to fees and services associated with the purchase.<br />
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The HST <u>has been applied</u> to the purchase of new homes, but a rebate will be available for those purchasing new homes up to $500,000 if they are their primary residences. A home under $400,000 has a rebate of 6% of the purchase price.<br />
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Please contact David Speedie if you have further questions: <a href="mailto:dspeedie8@gmail.com">dspeedie8@gmail.com</a>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-42082120093749170282010-08-29T15:43:00.005-04:002010-08-29T16:35:52.970-04:00HST Review - How will the HST affect my housing costs in Toronto?The HST tax <u>will be applied</u> to heating fuels, electricity, professional services such as architect's fees and real estate commissions.<br />
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The HST tax <u>will not be applied</u> to the purchase of resale property, condo fees, most financial services, residential rent and municipal public transportation.<br />
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Does this make it all more expensive? In some cases definitely yes when the exemptions to the old taxes were removed. Remember also that the old tax of 8% PST and 5% GST has been replaced. The single HST tax we now pay is 13%.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">S</span><span style="color: #0b5394;">ee our </span></span><a href="http://www.torontorealestatevlog.com/search/label/Sellers%20FAQs"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-small;">vlog</span></a><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-small;"> and our </span><a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/buying-a-home"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-small;">buyer's services</span></a>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-2646015995510290472010-08-28T10:31:00.003-04:002010-08-29T16:23:56.426-04:00HST Review - What will be the effect of the HST on the purchase of a cottage or chalet?Unfortunately the HST applies to the purchase of a new secondary property. For example a new second home costing $500,000 will have $30,000 added in this tax to the purchase price if it is not your primary residence. <br />
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The tax does not apply to resale property. If you need further information view my video: <a href="http://www.torontorealestatevlog.com/2010/04/how-with-hst-effect-purchase-of-home-in.html">How will the HST affect my purchase of a home in Toronto?</a>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-16499730371479989982010-02-17T06:25:00.008-05:002010-02-17T07:16:11.969-05:00Changes in mortgage rules will apply April 19, 2010 -won't affect binding agreements made previously<p>New rules announced by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty apply to government-backed mortgages. These measures will change the following: </p><ul><li><span style="color:#660000;">withdrawal amounts when refinancing </span></li><br /><li><span style="color:#660000;">require 20% downpayment for government-backed mortgage insurance on non-owner occupied properties </span></li><br /><li><span style="color:#660000;">the standard required for five-year fixed rate mortgage will apply to all borrowers</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></li></ul><p> "Exceptions would be allowed after April 19 where they are needed to satisfy a binding purchase and sale, financing, or refinancing agreement entered into before April 19, 2010." - <span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.fin.gc.ca/n10/data/10-011_1-eng.asp">Department of Finance Canada</a> </span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;">For further information refer to announcement -</span><a href="http://www.fin.gc.ca/n10/10-011-eng.asp"><span style="font-size:85%;">See Department of Finance Canada</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></p>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-70929725604273006102009-11-21T08:00:00.008-05:002009-11-23T13:56:23.606-05:00What facilities does the City of Toronto have for kids? For those of us who are starting young families we often rely on word of mouth to find sevices and activities for our children. I recently checked out <a href="http://toronto.ca/">toronto.ca</a> the official site of the City of Toronto which offers advice and information on health and safety, evaluation of child care facilities, and recreational facilities. To access see <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/family/index.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">City of Toronto family portal</span></a>Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-69971661237049562722009-11-01T08:22:00.002-05:002009-11-05T08:57:38.629-05:00Home renovation tips -The first step is the most importantBuilding an addition on your home, replacing windows, a bathroom upgrade or even just painting your home usually begins as a positive experience. The successful and happy home owners always have one thing in common. They took the first step carefully. They interviewed at least three prospective contractors or tradespeople, actually checked their references, compared all aspects of the quote and usually did not accept the cheapest one.<br />
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Perhaps my dad's advice,"Don't pay the full balance of the bill until every part of the work is complete no matter how small," will save you lots of emails and phone calls begging your installer to return!!<br />
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Another one of my clients shares a great tip. She resists pressure to leave a cheque, always coming home and inspecting all of the completed work and also always waits until her partner inspects it also before writing the cheque. She's a happy renovator.<br />
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See <a href="http://www.hiringacontractor.com/En/default.asp">Get it in Writing</a> for great tips. Send us yours.Claire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356629771882575049.post-86488458517551911812009-04-21T08:28:00.008-04:002009-04-21T09:19:11.308-04:00Tips for downsizing"Whether you're an empty nester moving from a house into a condo, or a renter trading in a two-bedroom for a studio, you'll have to say sayonara to some of your stuff." So says Helen Racanelli in her article in <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/homes/real-estate/top-10-tips-for-downsizing/a/308">Style at Home </a>magazine. Helen provides excellent tips but I asked one of my clients who has just sold the family home of 31 years how she was able to find a smaller home and sell hers within a space of two weeks without any problem it seems. Her response:<br /><br /><em>If the sale of your house comes suddenly the preparation that you have put into this months or years before counts. My most important tip is that your children take all their stuff when they move out except of course for their most treasured childhood things which I have kept for their children. I'm a not a clutterer so when any new item came into the house one went out. Clothes not worn were periodically sent to charity. Don’t keep paper</em>.<br /><br /><em>Next over the last few years I looked at my furnishings and style and identified what pieces kept my rooms looking like they were furnished in the 90s . So out went the mahogany china cabinet which was the the most prominent feature of the living room/ dining and in came a plainer style sideboard which would fit anywhere. Any furniture pieces I did not use were given to local church sales or put on Craig's list, not stored in the garage!</em><br /><br /><em>You are most likely selling to a young family so I made my home appealing to them -no heavy draperies, a wide open bright basement, no</em> <em>wallpaper.</em><br /><br /><em>What I did do right? When I replaced the bathroom several years ago I installed white fixtures, protected the hardwood floors, installed good windows and kept the house in good repair </em><br /><br />I did not have to rush around making repairs, emptying the garage, unstuffing closets or removing tired furniture.<br /><br />Now it's packing time ..<br /><br />See: <a href="http://www.findahomeintoronto.com/index.php/seller-services">Preparing your home for sale</a>.<br /><br />See: <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/homes/real-estate/top-10-tips-for-downsizing/a/308">Top ten tips for downsizing</a>- Helen RacanelliClaire Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16170116253112100425noreply@blogger.com0