Here are the April stats:
– Number of sales is down 12.7% in April over March
– But, number of sales are up 36.6% compared to the 10 yr average
– New listings are down 8.4% month over month
There’s no denying it. Buying a home can be challenging, especially when the market is hot. While saving up for your down payment is one thing, competing with other home hunters who all want the same property is quite another. Fortunately, if you find yourself in a multiple-offer scenario, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success—and make the process as stress-free as possible.
Here are a few tips you can try if you’re competing for your dream home…
1) Understand the market
Whether you’re purchasing in Milton, Burlington, or elsewhere, it pays to understand the local market. That’s because current conditions will directly impact what constitutes a good offer—which is especially important when there are multiple bids on the table. Fortunately, an agent with up-to-the-minute insight on market trends, local prices, and comparable homes will be well-positioned to help you craft a winning strategy.
2) Know your own limits
Of course, it’s not just the market you should have a handle on. Understanding your financial situation is equally crucial. It’s all too common to get swept up in a bidding war and offer more than you can comfortably afford. As a rule of thumb, your housing expenses (including mortgage payments) should be no more than 30 per cent of your monthly take-home pay. Obtaining pre-approval can also help you budget, as it will give you a strong sense of how much financing you’ll likely receive.
3) Be prepared to act quickly
Here’s another great reason to obtain mortgage pre-approval: it will allow you to act fast when you find the perfect property. You’ll know what you can afford—and sellers will see you as a serious buyer. In a market where inventory moves fast, it could make all the difference. Other tips for taking quick, decisive action include setting thorough home-buying criteria, understanding your dealbreakers, and ensuring you’re mentally prepared to make a move when you find the right place.
4) Make the strongest offer possible
Buyers often assume that they’ll have an opportunity to up their bid during negotiations. It certainly happens. That said, in a multiple-offer scenario, you may not get that second chance. That’s why it’s often wise to make your best bid the first time around. Of course, every set of circumstances is different, and there are times when leaving room to bargain is the best course of action. Luckily, a skilled local agent can help you determine which strategy is right for you.
5) Work with a true professional
Buying a home presents challenges in the best of circumstances. When there are multiple bids on the table, the process only becomes more complex—and the consequences of making a small misstep can be much steeper. In other words, getting it right is key. From understanding seller motivations to crafting the ideal offer, a local agent with a proven track record can walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and empower you to make a truly informed purchase!
To help you make an informed home purchase, we’re providing our handy buyer’s guide.
Interested in learning more about our buying services?
Get in touch to learn how we can make your next purchase a success!
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.
Need a hand searching for the right family-friendly neighbourhood?
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!
Interested in learning more about our buying services?
Get in touch to learn how we can help make your next purchase a success!
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!
There’s nothing quite like buying a home for the first time. It’s an almost indescribable excitement, joy, and pride that you’ll feel when you set foot in a place that’s truly your own. Of course, there are a few steps you’ll have to take before you can get there—and on the journey, there are plenty of opportunities to make mistakes. Fortunately, knowing what not to do can help ensure that the process is smooth and successful.
If you’re purchasing a home for the first time, here are five mistakes you should avoid…
1) Forgoing pre-approval
One of the biggest missteps many home buyers make is forgoing pre-approval. Taking this first step towards securing a mortgage is simple—and the benefits it can provide are well worth the effort.
During the process, a lender will look closely at your finances to determine how much they’ll likely offer you. While pre-approval isn’t an absolute guarantee that you’ll be fully approved, it is enough to show most sellers you’re a credible buyer who’s ready to make a home purchase!
2) Being unrealistic
You deserve to find your dream home. We’re talking about a place where you can imagine spending some of the happiest moments of your life. A living space like that should just feel right—but it won’t be absolutely perfect.
The truth is, flawless homes don’t exist. Unfortunately, some buyers don’t know that until it’s too late. They pass over beautiful properties capable of meeting their needs because they’re waiting for absolute perfection. Your best bet is to look for a place that checks all of your most important boxes, while giving you that “at home” feeling.
3) Overlooking serious flaws
Some features are easy to fall in love with, like an incredible layout or beautiful architectural details. While it makes sense to factor these “pros” into your purchase decision, it’s not a good idea to ignore any major issues a home might have because of them.
From mould growth to a shoddy foundation, some potential problems deserve your attention. No matter how much you adore a home, make sure you investigate any suspected red flags.
4) Not protecting yourself
Purchasing a home isn’t something you do every day, which is why most buyers don’t know what their due diligence should entail. In most circumstances, it will include a thorough inspection—and possibly the right set of conditions added to your purchase agreement.
In the simplest terms, a home-buying condition is a requirement that must be fulfilled for your purchase to be finalized. For example, a financing condition states that you don’t have to complete your transaction if your mortgage falls through. Your agent can help you take steps like this to reduce the potential risk associated with your purchase.
5) Underestimating costs
A home is the biggest investment most buyers will ever make. Given the price tag involved, it’s not surprising that many forget to factor in (comparatively) smaller expenses. The problem is, they have a way of adding up.
To pave the way for a smooth purchase, leave plenty of room in your budget for ongoing homeownership expenses. You should also make sure you understand the closing costs involved—such as legal fees and land transfer tax.
Buying a home for the first time may seem daunting, and it’s natural to worry about making mistakes. The good news is, an experienced agent can provide the guidance you need to make a smooth, low-stress, and all-around successful purchase.
Are ready to start the search for your first home? Reach out today to get started!
