Archive for December 2015
TREB Reports Mid December Sales Stats
December 18, 2015 – Toronto Real Estate Board Members reported 2,760 sales through TREB’s MLS® System during the first 14 days of December 2015 – up 11.9 per cent compared to the first two weeks of December 2014. Growth in new listings over the same period was also very strong. In fact, with an annual…
Read MoreKeeping Out Unwanted House Guests
As the weather turns nasty this month, rodents, raccoons and other critters are on the prowl looking for warmer homes. Keep them out of your home by following these pest control tips from the City of Toronto: Check flashing around the chimney and have it capped to keep animals from nesting. Inspect all roof vents…
Read MoreHelpful Holiday Hints
For many, the holiday season is a stressful time of juggling work, family and social commitments, making it difficult to savour the moments that make this time of year so special. Here are a few tips to help ease the stress and make the holiday season a meaningful time for you and your family: Slow…
Read MoreResidential Mortgage Rates as of December 14, 2015
Term Fixed Closed Rate 6 months 3.95% 1 Year 2.29% 2 Year 2.29% 3 Year 2.34% 4 Year 2.49% 5 Year 2.79% 7 Year 3.44% 10 Year 3.89% Prime = 2.70% Variable Closed (5 yr) = Prime minus 0.50% = 2.20% Variable Open = Prime plus 0.80% = 3.50% Secured Credit Lines = Prime plus…
Read MoreBreaking A Closed Mortgage Can Cost You
A closed mortgage is a mortgage where the term of the mortgage is fixed for a period of time. Generally speaking, a closed mortgage will come with a lower interest rate as compared to an open mortgage. While an owner will benefit from lower mortgage payments with a closed mortgage as compared to an open…
Read MoreCreating Sustainable Neighbourhoods
A neighbourhood with sustainable features is one that meets your needs while protecting the environment and leaving an affordable legacy. This type of neighbourhood offers homes that are located near shops, schools, recreation, work and other daily destinations. Like a village, these places are a pleasant, convenient and safe walk, cycle or bus ride from…
Read More5 Tips To Create A New Bathroom For Less
A bathroom remodel is one of the most valuable home improvement projects you can undertake. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2015 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range bathroom remodel of $16,000 recoups 70 percent of its value at the time of resale. But what if you want a great bathroom on a smaller budget? Or crave…
Read MoreT’is The Season
The holiday season is fast approaching and many homeowners are busy planning this year’s festive display. But before you start stringing lights and decorating trees, Health Canada has some tips to ensure the items you are bringing into your home are safe and hazard-free. Holiday Trees When buying a real tree, make sure it’s fresh…
Read MoreProtect Yourself When Shopping Online
More and more holiday shoppers are letting their fingers do the shopping this year. Shopping online is easy and convenient, but it can put your personal information and finances at risk. If you connect to the Internet by a wireless network, or WiFi, make sure you take steps to protect your personal information from fraud…
Read MoreWill Interest Rates Rise or Will They Fall?
Over the past few weeks interest rates, specifically longer term (5 year term) fixed rates, have risen on average 0.25%. Not a massive leap, and not the beginning of the end of low rates by any stretch. Understanding The Basics Fixed interest rates are predicated on the bond market. Where the bond market goes is…
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