Have you started working from home during the pandemic? If so, you’re far from alone. In the last year, countless Ontarians have also made the switch—and for many, it’s going to be permanent. The trend is so strong that increasingly, we’re seeing new houses and condos with workspaces designed into them!

The truth is, having a dedicated office is key to your productivity. If you’re setting one up, here are a few things to consider…

Tips for creating your home office

Looking to make the most of your existing square footage? You’ll want to keep the following in mind as you get started.

Your location

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t have an empty room to convert. In that case, you’re best bet may be repurposing a guest bedroom—or finding a nook for a fold-out desk. Either way, look for adequate square footage, some natural light, and (if possible) a door you can close to separate yourself from family life when need be.

Ergonomics

Sitting in front of a computer for long periods can lead to issues such as back, neck, and eye strain. To avoid them, invest in good quality equipment—and adjust it to your body. Back support is crucial, as is being able to see your entire screen when you look straight ahead. Your neck shouldn’t be pitched forward, and your wrists and forearms should be at the same level.

Setting the mood

Anxiety is the enemy of productivity, which is why it’s wise to focus on creating a calming workspace. Colour has an important role to play. For example, painting your walls the right shade of blue can foster a more relaxed mindset. Having plants, photos, and personal mementos on your desk (or within your sightline) can also help boost your mood.

Keeping it neat

Clutter can make you feel out of control—the opposite of what you want in a home office. Fortunately, by keeping your possessions organized, you can minimize physical distractions. Start by cleaning your space thoroughly. While it’s nice to have a few decorative items nearby, opting for a minimalist aesthetic can help you stay focused. (More on decluttering here)

How to add a basement office

For many homeowners, there’s more unused space in the basement than anywhere else. If you’re thinking of setting up your own basement office, there are a few special considerations to factor in.

Planning your layout

First things first: think about whether furniture and equipment can be moved down the stairs—and fit through any passageways on the way in. Basements are often a little cramped, and the last thing you want is for low ceilings or awkward corners to put a kink in your plans.

Consider an inspection

Thinking of doing a little remodelling? Before you do, you’ll want to make sure your investment won’t be at risk of water damage. In addition to assessing the situation yourself, you may want to have a professional come in and ensure there aren’t any leaks. If mustiness is present, you should also consider bringing in a mold expert.

Set up your infrastructure

Basements don’t always allow for easy access to utilities. If your Wi-Fi is dodgy and there aren’t enough electrical outlets, it’s going to be a problem! Take stock of all the equipment you’ll need before you start setting up, and ensure that you have the infrastructure to support it.

Think lighting and air quality

Chances are you won’t get much natural light in the basement, but there are ways to brighten things up. The right LED bulbs can help you avoid eye strain—and create a truly pleasant atmosphere. You may also want to invest in a good dehumidifier.

It doesn’t have to be complicated…

Whether your work-from-home situation is permanent or not, setting up a productive office space could be crucial to your success.

Start by finding a space in your home and assessing its potential. With a bit of forethought and a little effort, you can get your personal workspace operational in no time!

Looking for the perfect home with space for an office? We can help you find something that matches your criteria. Get in touch to take the first step!

December’s market update is here!

Before sharing December’s market stats, we first want to recap 2020 and then finish this off by touching on 2021 predictions.

2020 RECAP

Despite the year we had with COVID, economic uncertainty & lockdowns, it was a record breaking year in Real Estate. The average sale price across the GTA reached a new record of almost $930,000. That is up 13% year over year. We saw a lot of competition for single family homes last year, which resulted in them experiencing the strongest price growth in the suburbs.

DECEMBER’S MARKET STATS

Let’s look at the December stats for Milton, Burlington and Oakville.

PREDICTIONS

Now let’s talk about 2021 predictions. The real estate market was extremely competitive in 2020 and we are expecting 2021 to be no different.

There are 4 main factors that will impact the real estate market this year.

⁠1. Immigration – In 2020 immigration dropped although Canada is planning on welcoming 1.2 million people between 2021 & 2023. ⁠⠀

⁠2. Interest rates – Interest rates have been at an all time low and are expected to stay low throughout 2021.

⁠3. Housing supply – We have been in a sellers market for months now and with people continuing to make significant lifestyle changes we don’t anticipate this changing. Currently supply is extremely low, so if you have been thinking about selling now is a great time.

⁠4. COVID 19 – The pandemic has caused buyer preferences to change. 2020 had many of us reconsider what is important to us, especially when it comes to our home. We anticipate home-buyer trends to continue to shift in 2021. ⁠⠀

RE/MAX Canada is currently anticipating that Ontario will experience 7-12% price growth in 2021.

Are you searching for the ideal family-friendly community? When you drive down peaceful tree-lined streets, see kids and parents out and about, and immediately picture you and your loved ones living there, too—that’s when you know you’ve found it.

Here are a few things to look for as you begin your search…

1) The Right Feel

The neighbourhood that’s right for you will depend on your family’s unique needs. But whether you’re in the suburbs, city, or a small town, being near other parents with kids will likely make you feel at home. You’ll probably want a place where you can get to know your neighbours—and be a part of a close-knit community. Many families also prefer quieter areas outside the downtown core, where there’s less traffic.

2) School District

Now’s the time to do your homework and look into local school districts. The Fraser Institute is a trusted resource when it comes to rankings for both elementary and secondary options. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a couple of schools, you may also want to book a time to visit each one. Taking this step will give you a better feel for the potential environments. You should also look into nearby daycares if you have a younger child or need extra support.

3) Amenities

To us, a family-friendly neighbourhood isn’t complete without convenient amenities. When you need to do a quick grocery run or pick up some supplies for a last-minute school project, you’ll be thankful you have all the shops you need nearby. And when it’s finally time to relax, having a great selection of local restaurants, cafes, and maybe even a local wine shop nearby may be just what you need to unwind.

4) Parks

Need a bit of fresh air? Kids and family members of all ages can appreciate a beautiful green space, especially when it’s within walking distance of your home. Whether it’s a playground with splash pads and basketball courts or a wide-open park with biking and walking trails, having a place to enjoy the great outdoors could greatly improve your family’s quality of life. In fact, the more options you have around, the better!

5) Family-Friendly Houses

Finally, let’s get to what matters most: your future home. Your ability to find the right house, condo, or attached living space will depend in part on how well you know your family’s current and future needs. Do you need an extra parking space for more than one car? How many bedrooms and bathrooms will you likely require in the years ahead? Should there be room for a potential in-law suite one day?

Finding the right home for your family can take some effort, but the right guidance will simplify the process. With our team, you’ll get all the help you need to plan for the immediate future—and far beyond.

You’ve planned and saved, and now it’s finally time to start your home search in earnest. Not so fast. Before you take the next step, you’ll want to ensure you have helpful expertise on your side.

The truth is, the right real estate guidance could mean a smoother, more enjoyable buying experience—and a better purchase price. If you’re ready to buy, read our top tips on how to hire the best local professional for you!

Conducting Interviews

Contrary to popular belief, not all buyer’s agents are the same. By speaking with a few different professionals, you can get a sense of what’s out there—and help ensure that you find someone who’s well-equipped to serve your unique buying needs.

Before interviewing prospective agents, jot down a few important questions. Some that you may want to touch on include:

• How well do you know my neighbourhoods of interest?
• Can you walk me through the buying process?
• Can you tell me a bit about your negotiation style?
• If I find myself in a multiple-offer scenario, how will you help me win?
• What’s the best way to contact you?

In addition to providing you with insight into the interviewee’s approach, sitting across from someone can help you get a sense of what they’re really like. If you feel at ease, it’s likely a good sign!

The Right Experience

It goes without saying that you want to work with someone who has a very solid grasp of the buying process. From obtaining pre-approval to making an attractive offer to wrapping up closing details, they should understand the common challenges associated with every step—and how to overcome them.

Next up, consider community expertise. If an agent has been working in your area of interest for years, they’re probably a great resource. If they can tell you about recent price shifts, local school districts, and the places that serve up the best coffee, it’s another potential sign that you’re in good hands!

You’ll probably also want to get a sense of whether they’re familiar with all property types. For example, you want to work with someone who has a reasonable amount of condo expertise if you’re buying a unit. Likewise, it may be helpful to know whether they’re used to working with buyers like you. In some ways, your needs will be different depending on whether you’re a first-time buyer or a downsizer.

Ask About Connections

These days, the best real estate agents offer full-service experiences. That means more than hands-on attention, ongoing expertise, and a willingness to help at any time. It’s also about having an available network of trusted professionals to assist you with anything that falls outside of their scope of expertise.

Trust us when we say, finding an agent with a reliable list of industry contacts is worthwhile. From mortgage brokers to real estate lawyers to professional movers, having insider connections who represent the best in the business can make the buying process much lower-stress.

Speak to References

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to ask for references. Some buyers are hesitant to take this step, but agents are used to it. Perusing reviews and testimonials can give you a good idea of the level of service (and results) a professional provides, but it won’t tell you the whole story. Nothing beats being able to ask questions firsthand!

There’s no doubt that finding the right agent takes a little more work than picking the first professional you come across, but it’s worthwhile. By doing your homework, you can help ensure a better buying experience—and a result you’ll be more than happy with!

Are you preparing to sell your home? The first thing you’ll want to do is find the right agent. Having a skilled professional by your side will help ensure that every step—from pricing to staging to negotiations—leads to the best possible result. It all starts with a practical approach to your search.

If you’re selling your home, here are a few tips for finding the ideal real estate professional for your needs…

Conducting Interviews

After some googling—and perhaps asking around amongst friends and family—you should have a shortlist of agents who seem like a good fit. Once you do, it’s time to start setting up interviews. There’s no better way to find out who you could work well with than by sitting down to chat one-on-one. Here are just a few questions to consider asking:

• How long have you worked in my community?

• What is your average sale-to-list ratio? (This is a home’s final sale price divided by the last list price).

• What sets you apart from your competition?

• Can you tell me a bit about your pricing strategy?

• How might you market my home?

Of course, one of the most important considerations is your comfort level. An interview will provide you with a window into how a given professional does business—and allow you to assess how well you’ll likely get along during the selling process.

The Right Qualities

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to interviewing a seller’s agent. That said, there are a number of traits that the professional you work with should have. Here are just a few of the qualities to look out for:

Local experience

Whether they’re helping you set the perfect price or assisting you in marketing your property to local buyers, an agent’s area knowledge is crucial. A professional who knows your community—from neighbourhood schools to how much local homes have recently sold for—is well-positioned to help you locate and work with the right buyer.

Industry expertise

Of course, your agent should be more than a local insider. Before you start working with them, you should ensure that they understand the process inside and out. Try asking about everything from their staging and marketing to their strategies for handling multiple offers and unexpected closing details. Their answers will provide a lot of insight into their experience.

A strong track record

While hearing what an agent would theoretically do in various scenarios is helpful, their past performance is usually an even better indicator of how they’ll serve you. For the homes they’ve sold, what is their average days-on-market? How many homes did they sell last year? Asking for and carefully considering an agent’s statistics can be helpful.

What To Ask For

When an agent tells you about the results they’ve achieved for clients, you don’t have to take their word for it. If you want to learn what working with them is really like, consider requesting potential references.

On the marketing front, you’ll want to ask to view some past materials. From flyers to online listings, everything used to promote a home should be appealing, polished, and professional-looking. If you find the samples you see compelling, chances are that the agent responsible for them has what it takes to market your property with finesse!

Interested in learning how we can help you sell your home? Reach out today to set up a consultation!

A look at the GTA Real Estate market reviewing November Market Statistics.

Are you ready to buy a home? Before you jump into the Milton real estate market, you should make sure you know what you want. From price points to property types to local schools and green spaces, there’s no shortage of things to keep in mind. Fortunately, getting to know the town—and taking a bit of time to set your home-buying criteria—can help ensure that you find the picture-perfect place to live.

Learn how to find the right home here in our Milton real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Wondering how much your dream home will set you back in Milton? If you’re in the market for a house, you can likely expect to pay somewhere between $850,000 and $1.5 million. If you’re more interested in a condo, prices will probably be in the $450,000 to $600,000 range (with two-bedroom units typically on the higher end).

Affordability is one of the most important things to consider as you embark on the home hunt. When you start budgeting, be aware that experts recommend spending no more than 30 per cent of your monthly income on household expenses—including mortgage payments.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

No matter what you’re looking for in a home, you’ll likely find it in one of Milton’s wonderful communities. Here are just a few of our favourite options.

Ideal For Families

Beaty

If you’re looking for the ideal family-friendly community, you can’t go wrong with Beaty. This idyllic area contains twelve parks, a wonderful library, and two of the best places for kids to get an education in Milton (Hawthorne Village Public School and Guardian Angels Catholic School).

When it comes to real estate, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options. Brick facades and front porches give these properties a comfy, traditional feel.

Dorset Park

It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Milton. Leafy greenery, convenient amenities, and easy access to GO Transit make Dorset Park perfect for families. While this picturesque community is located near the core, it feels like a hidden gem.

There’s plenty of wonderful housing stock here, including beautiful Neo-Colonial and Tudor options, bungalows, and even some townhouses. Spacious lots and mature trees only add to the appeal of this charming neighbourhood.

Timberlea

In the heart of Milton, you’ll find Timberlea. Its tree-lined streets and central location make it a favourite among home buyers. Close proximity to great schools and fantastic shopping (including Milton Mall and the retail along Nipissing Road) only make it a more in-demand place to live.

Most Timberlea houses are a few decades old, and they tend to be on the larger size—as do the lots they’re built on. The area is home to an abundance of split levels, many of which feature garages and plenty of storage space. Needless to say, this community is one of the most attractive in town for growing families!

Historical Gems

Old Milton

Looking for a gorgeous historical home? In Old Milton, you’ll find an array of spacious older houses—many of which have been here for over a hundred years. The lots are generous too! If you’re searching for something a little more economical, check out the local selection of post-war bungalows.

Old Milton is also home to some of the prettiest parks in town Rotary Park is ideal for tennis enthusiasts, while Mill Pond features a picturesque gazebo and waterfront). Quaint local businesses, which include buzz-worthy eateries and boutiques, keep things lively.

Newer Homes

For some buyers, there’s nothing quite like a brand new living space. Here are a couple of communities where the homes are pristine.

Ford

Ford is one of the newest neighbourhoods in Milton—and one of the most family-oriented. With its great schools (including several Catholic options), ample green space, and access to grocery stores and other amenities, this pretty community is the perfect place to raise kids.

Here you’ll find spacious new-build homes situated on wide lots. Typical features include garages, front porches, and big windows that look out onto the street. The area is also highly walkable, and there are plenty of bike lanes for local cyclists.

Willmott

Willmott is a perfectly-planned community that was developed in the mid-2000s. Its key attractions include Milton Community Park (a 7.2 hectare green space) and Milton Sports Centre (with fitness, aquatic, and sports facilities).

Large single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options are plentiful here. These recently-built living spaces are in great condition—and the red-brick exteriors that many of them boast lend the area a certain charm.

Scott

If it’s gorgeous green space you’re after, you’ll find it in Scott. Parkland and protected natural areas surround the community, providing plenty of natural beauty. For those who want to give their kids a faith-based education, nearby Queen of Heaven Catholic Elementary is highly reputable.

Homes here tend to be on the pricier side, but they’re worth it. We’re talking about plenty of square footage, immaculate interiors, and yards that serve as private oases. Another housing highlight is the Green Life condo building, which offers low maintenance fees and incredible energy-efficiency!

Advice For Buyers

If you’re preparing to buy the ideal piece of Milton real estate, there’s one thing to keep in mind. The town is growing incredibly quickly. In particular, detached homes are in high demand—so make sure you’re ready for the competition.

One of the best ways to appeal to sellers is by making a firm offer. That means no conditions. To take this step safely, you’ll want to have your financing in place—and be comfortable accepting the results of a pre-listing inspection.

You should also ensure that your deposit funds are easily accessible, since you may have to act fast when you find the right property!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Milton real estate market? Reach out today!

 

Take the Tour

The Holiday season is here, which means the return of Christmas trees and Christmas light displays. Checkout our guide below to the Places to See Enchanting Christmas Lights in Halton.

 Light Up the Hills Festival of Halton

Now until January 14: Everyday from 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

This holiday season, experience a world of lights and the wonders of the season and join us at the Light Up the Hills Festival of Halton in Georgetown.   Join us for an unforgettable walk through captivating displays  as we illuminate the hills with our festival of lights. Our annual event celebrates the magic of the season, where there is something for everyone to experience and enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a romantic date night, or simply a moment of wonder and awe, Light Up the Hills delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with wonderful memories of the season.  Embark on this extraordinary adventure and discover why our festival has become a cherished tradition in Halton.

This year the lights will be lit for everyone to enjoy at Dominion Gardens Park in Georgetown, Shelagh Law Parkette in Glen Williams and Acton Sports Park in Acton. As always, there is no charge to visit any of the parks and you do not need to make a reservation.

Click here for more info

Burlington Festival of Lights

Spencer Smith Park: 1400 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington

Now – January 8th – 4:00pm – Midnight daily

Winter Wonders

Now to January 7 (Thursdays to Sundays)*
Hendrie Park – 680 Plains Road West, Burlington, ON

Winter Wonders, a unique outdoor evening experience, guides visitors along Hendrie Park’s picturesque pathways adorned with charming festive lights, interactive installations and magical displays that tell the stories of unique winter wonders. Stroll through our breathtaking garden to the rhythm of festive music while indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season.  

After your walk, cozy up indoors and explore the Botanical Train installation and the warmly lit Mediterranean Garden, and pick up unique gifts from Shop at the Gardens. Timed tickets are required and space is limited.  

Timed-tickets required; get yours now!

Winter Festival of Lights

The most enchanting of Niagara Falls attractions, the annual Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival. Experience the spectacular displays with millions of lights and larger than life displays across the tourism districts.

“Sparkling Winter Lights” Falls Illumination

To celebrate the beauty and majesty of the winter season and the annual Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, an illumination light show “Sparkling Winter Lights” has been produced for Niagara Falls Tourism by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board. The display features the subtle and sometimes harsh movements inspired by winter in the north. From gentle snowfalls to the aurora borealis gliding over snowy tundra, to blizzards and the frosted falls; winter’s spectacle is exciting and magical.

The mighty American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls will come to life every evening with this tribute to the natural beauty all around us. The display is part of the regular nightly illumination of the Falls, with the five-minute lighting display playing through on the hour, at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm each evening between November 18, 2023 and January 7, 2024.

The Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights Hot Chocolate Trail

Warm up this winter season with a hot beverage while exploring the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights. This new self-guided trail will lead you to delicious stops of chocolatey concoctions created by chocolatiers, chefs and mixologists at some of the area’s excellent restaurants and bake shops across Niagara Falls. From classic combinations with mint, orange and s’mores to inventive cocktails like a Dulce De Leche or Naughty But Nice Hot Chocolate featuring unique homemade ingredients like flavoured marshmallows and even eyeball gummies, this new trail has 17 stops with 23 unique and delicious flavours to sip and savour (both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options).

Click here for more info

Looking for a safe way to see twinkling Christmas light displays this holiday season?

The coronavirus pandemic will make it harder to celebrate the holidays this year. We’ve compiled a list of some dazzling holiday lights displays, several are drive-thru, while others are on foot with face masks and social distancing required. Keep in mind online reservations may need to be made in advance.

Country Heritage Park

Country Heritage Park is excited to announce its first ever Country Christmas Drive-Thru! Drive a 2 kilometre loop at scenic Country Heritage Park in Milton.

We know times have been challenging this year. That’s why this event follows the rules and regulations of COVID-19 in the Halton Region so you can enjoy this Christmas time knowing you are safe in the comfort of your own vehicle!

Tickets will be available for purchase online Click here to reserve your tickets

 

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Burlington Festival of Lights

Winter Wonders

Wednesdays to Sundays, Nov 18 to Dec 23
Additional Dates: Dec 27-30, Jan 2, 35 to 10 p.m.; Hendrie Park

A brand new RBG experience! Follow incredible festive lights through picture-perfect Hendrie Park and discover something new at every turn.

Experience the magic of the holiday season under the stars as historic Hendrie Park transforms into a winter wonderland of nature and light. This unique outdoor experience guides visitors along Hendrie Park’s picturesque pathways adorned with charming festive Christmas lights, including 7 magical displays that tell the stories of unique winter wonders! Discover the origins of popular holiday traditions while strolling through our breathtaking garden to the rhythm of festive music and indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season.

 

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Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls.

The annual lights festival is an eight-kilometre route that transforms Niagara Parks, Dufferin Islands, and the surrounding area into an Instagram-worthy palette of colours and sparkling lights. All while social distancing, you can take in the over 3 million lights from your car or you can bundle up and walk the wide-open park spaces. Displays at the festival include 15 Canadian wildlife illuminations, the Sylma, and over 50 trees wrapped in lights in Dufferin Islands.Besides this, there will also be a light show on the Toronto Power Generation Station and the Zimmerman Fountain, three-dimensional angels at the Niagara Parks Police building, and the ever-popular Noah’s Ark.

Click here for more info

 

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How do Home Renovations Affect Your Home Value?

Contrary to what many people think the ROI isn’t always what you might expect. There are three ways to value the payback on your home renovations.

First there is the value the Reno adds to the potential selling price of your property.

Secondly there is value it adds to your enjoyment of your home.

Thirdly, the value of maintaining the worth of your property.

Thinking of upgrading your plumbing for example? This would help maintain the worth of your property or possibly add to the selling price depending on what kind of plumbing you have to start with. However, you likely won’t get back the money you spend dollar to dollar.

High-Yield Renovations

Let’s look at the first type of payback, the top renovations to improve your selling price: