Mar. 1, 2012 Issue 43

P R E S E N T E D B Y T H E G O L F I T E A M

March 1, 2012 - Vol 37

Rob GolfiSales Representative


HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Happy St. Patrick’s DayHappy St. Patrick’s Day

March 17March 17 thth

MarketWatch March A 2012_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 27/02/12 1:31 PM Page 1

Page 2 The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch March 1, 2012

www.GolfiTeam.com

Since the inception ofhis career in 1997,Rob Golfi has

recognized that understandinghis clients’ needs is essential toproviding excellent service.

As business grew, Robassembled the Golfi Team in aneffort to maintain the samelevel of professionalism clientshave come to expect. Shortlythereafter in 2003, the teamreceived the prestigious honourof being among the top 100Real Estate Teams forRE/MAX Canada, and thisstatus continues to date.

Rob’s experience andaggressive negotiating skillshave earned him every majorhonour awarded by RE/MAX,including President’s Club,100% Club, Platinum Club,Chairman’s Club, Hall of Famein 2003, the Lifetime Achieve -ment Award in 2006, hisSRES® designation in 2009 andthe Diamond Club Award in2010. Having worked with

many of the industry’sprofessionals over the years, hehas the necessary edge to bestnegotiate the sale of your home.

Any agent can list yourhouse, but Rob’s knowledge,extensive marketingbackground and dedicationgives clients peace of mindwhen dealing with the singlemost important investment intheir lives. With years ofcombined experience, the GolfiTeam can provide your homewith a level of exposure thatmost agents cannot. Utilizing ateam approach also means thatthey will likely find a purchaserto buy your home sooner, ratherthan waiting for other agents toapproach you with potentialbuyers.

Ranked in the top 5 of nearly2,000 sales agents in theHamilton-Burlington and Niagaraareas, listing with Rob and theGolfi Team is the right choicewhen choosing someone torepresent your best interest. -Å

About Rob Golfi

The Solution

Fill in the grid above, so that each row of

9 squares, each column of nine and each

section of nine (three squares by three)

contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any

order. There is only one solution for the

puzzle and the numbers shown can

NOT be changed.

3 6 8 71

4 86 2

9 6 5

9 3 28

6 5 2

7 4 8 1

1 3 4 69

SUDOKUSUDOKU

326587 914

487129 653

591478 362

812965 437

975312 846

634751 289

748693 125

269834 57

153246 798

1

Crossword Puzzle(Solution on Page 4)

“It's the perfect home for a couple who can'tdecide what they want. It's a victorian

split level, colonial, ranch, mobile cabin!”

Across

5 Medium-dry sherry (11)

7 Long hard journey (4)

8 Topmost point (8)

9 Malicious gossip (7)

11 Glaswegians, Aberdonians

etc (5)

13 Proverb (5)

14 French port (2,5)

16 Slaughterhouse (8)

17 Ballet dancer's skirt (4)

18 With nothing to do (2,1,5,3)

Down

1 People (4)

2 Makeshift (7)

3 Forthright – Soviet spy (5)

4 Don Quixote's home (2,6)

5 Magic word (11)

6 Effaced (11)

10 Bedtime drink (8)

12 Eastern (anag) (7)

15 (Temporary) anti-wrinkle

treatment (5)

17 At that time (4)


Call Today 905-575-7700

March 1, 2012 The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch Page 3

*#1 Brokerage in the Realtors Association of Hamilton Burlington MLS from 1994 to 2010 consecutively. **Year End Standings for 2010, based on residential commissions paid. Rankings are compiled from figures submitted by regional offices.

3 Over $60 Million in Sales Annually**

3 #1 Real Estate Office in Hamilton-Burlington*

3 Amongst the Top Sales Reps in Ontario**

3 Ranked Top 50 Teams in Canada for **

3 Ranked Top 100 Teams world wide**

Facts About the GOLFI TEAM…

2003 2006 201020031998

LOOK WHAT WE'VE SOLD!


OVER $460 MILLION IN REAL ESTATE SALES

GET YOUR HOME

SOLD TODAY!

905-575-7700

BeamSville $219,900

5455 King StreetWill Not Last. Exciting opportunity with this 3bed bungalow. New carpet in living room,dining room, hallway and bedrooms. Homefeatures a generous living room and eat-inkitchen. Let the kids run in the oversizedbackyard.

SOLD IN 16 DAYS

Stoney Creek $389,900

181 Montreal CircleGorgeous, all brick, 2250 SqFt classic 2 storey.Features quality upgrades & includes 9ftceilings, family sized great rm, big formaldining rm, stylish kitchen w/lots of cupboards &granite, gleaming hardwd flrs, extra deep lot allfenced in, & a roughed-in bath in basement.


34 Regis CourtGreat location on quiet court. This charming,fenced 4 lvl back split sitting on 150 ft deep lot.Large country size kitchen overlooking familyroom with gas fireplace, beautiful hardwd inliving & dining room, Master with ensuite, newshingles ’05, close to shopping, schools & buses.

St. CatHarineS $249,900

61 Croydon DriveCharming home takes you by surprise! Updatedbirch kitchen w/granite counters, hardwdthroughout main flr, mostly updated vinylwindows, new shingles 08, new furnace & C/air05, finished rec-rm w/new Berber carpeting &showcase gas FP, updated bathrm in basement.


121 King Street EastBring your tool belt and make this your dreamhome! Fantastic opportunity on large L-shaped77.83 x 142.60 foot lot! 1.5 Storey all brickhome with partially finished basement. Close toall amenities and walking distance to downtownStoney Creek. Make an offer!

Hamilton mtn $299,900

65 Princeton DriveThis all brick, oversized 4 level backsplit inSherwood heights neighborhood is available forimmediate possession! Features updated vinylwindows, updated shingles, beautiful hardwood& ceramic floors, second kitchen in lower level,great in-law potential, sun-room, & fence yard.

Caledonia $249,500

21 Orkney Street West2 Sty, 3 BR home in a mature neighbourhood.Features lrg DR, LR w/gas FP, lrg eat in kit,Hardwd flrs, 3 good sized BRs & 4pc bathrm,lrg deck. Upgrades incl. a new 14x30 detachedgarage, new fencing, new driveway, roof ‘07,C/A ‘07, & most windows replaced.

SmitHville $274,900

122 Golden Acres DriveImmaculate, oversized 1350 sq.ft. backsplit!Fin. basement, beautiful hardwood floors, brightkitchen with oak cabinets leads to side yard with2 tiered deck, spacious family room with fp,master bedroom w/French doors to balcony,fenced yard w/gorgeous perennial gardens.

SOLD FOR 99.5% OF LIST

SOLD IN 7 DAYS

SOLD TO TORONTO BUYER

SOLD IN 19 DAYS

SOLD TO OUT CASH BUYER

SOLD FOR 98% OF LIST IN 30 DAYS

SOLD FOR FULL PRICE

Stoney Creek mtn $279,000

129 Slinger AvenueCharming raised ranch. Beautifully landscaped,ideal for growing family. Features new stylishkitchen with pantry & breakfast bar, hardwd flrsin front room & hallway. Enjoy lounging in thefully finished basment w/bedroom & bathroom.Close to amenities & schools.Call 905-575-7700.

SOLD TO MY CASH BUYER

Hamilton $196,900

37 Ferrie Street WestPride of Ownership in this 3 bedroom 2 storeyfamily home. This home offers a large LR &separate DR, newer carpeting & a private backdeck. Updates incl. renovated kitchen ('09),Windows ('08), flooring on main level ('09), roof('10), & updated electrical w/100 amp service.

SOLD FOR 98% OF LIST


Burlington $398,900

948 Glendale CourtConvenient Location! Close to Go Train, HWY& shopping. Oversized 4 level backsplit offersplenty of room with parking for 4, wonderfulbackyard for loads of outdoor fun. Updatesinclude ceramics, main bath, roof & furnace.

Call Today 905-575-7700


Rob Golfi*

Hamilton, Stoney Creek,Ancaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

Hamilton eaSt $189,900

34 Barons Avenue3 or 4 bedroom home w/highway access, schools& shopping nearby. Loads of updates, somenewer windows, roof 2011, furnace & tank 1998,main bath remodelled & new bath in basement.Fully fenced yard w/gate at driveway. Rear patio& big shed.


326 Jones RoadLarge duplex on 100 x 150 ft lot. Two 3 bdrmunits plus professionally finished 1 bdrm in-lawsuite in basement. 1.5 car garage & parking forup to 10 cars with multiple street access. Hugeprivate fenced backyard. Great investmentopportunity! Incredible income potential!


194 Millen RoadOld world charm w/modern conveniences.Beautifully renovated 2-storey with maplehardwood & ceramics on main flr. Family-sizedmaple kitchen w/tumbled marble backsplash &pot lighting. Large Master w/rich hotel styleensuite & W/I closet. Fresh paint, vinyl windows.


399 Fairfield AvenueSpacious 1 BR bungalow! Incl updated kitchenw/lots of counter space, fenced yard, new roofshingles & high efficiency furnace (gas on equalbilling $66.00 month!), 100amp on breakers, big reardeck w/awning, A/C, big bathrm & lots of storagein bsmt. Can be 2 BR if needed. Shows great!


202 Winston PlaceWalk to Mac!! All brick 3+3 bedroom home!Newer shingles, new windows, Hi eff furnace &C/Air (07), oversized water heater (05), newerplumbing & water line. Bsmt waterproofed, smokedetectors handwired, Ethernet/cable in all rooms!$2100 income per month tenants pay utilities.


35 Ivybridge Drive2400 sq ft. home overflowing w/upgrades incl. 9 ftceilings, hardwood flrs, loaded kitchen w/granite countertops, formal dining rm, slate floors, crown moulding,spiral staircase, showcase gas fireplace, 4 large sunnybedrms, rich hotel style ensuite bath, main floor den,bedrm level laundry, backing onto green space with pond.

Hamilton Ctr $104,500

18 Francis StreetBig home w/loads of updates, great private yardw/concrete patio, big fully fenced garden withshed, room for a big RV & 3 car parking. Homeshows great. Close to General hospital. 100 ampbreakers, new shingles in 2009 (stripped), newwindows, siding, furnace and central air in 2008.

Hamilton WeSt $339,900

260 Bay Street S., Unit 2Gorgeous Durand area condo! Only 3 units inthis building, part of 86 Herkimer conversion.Separate garage, locker in bsmt. Access to rooftop terrace in 86 Herkimer. Shows 10++w/upgraded fixtures, cabinets, counters,lighting, window treatments, & appliances.


132 Millen RoadAWESOME BEAUTY. Completely updated,hardwd flrs, kitchen w/maple cabinets, granitecounters, bathrms updated, crown moulding,spiral staircase, exterior has all new eaves facia& soffits, new shingles, new siding with stoneskirt, fenced yard, undergrd sprinkler system.


294 Emerald Street NorthLive mortgage free! With the upstairs apartmentrental of $625/mth your mortgage is paid.Freshly painted w/shingles 4 yrs old. Separateentrance to all floors. Parking for up to 6 cars inthe back. Owner occupies main floor, withboarder in the basement.


292 Delancey BoulevardBeautiful 4 BR, 2 stry home. Features family rmw/sliding door to yard, separate DR, ceramics inkit, 2.5 baths, master BR w/ensuite, laminatedflrs, unspoiled bsmnt, & dble garage & drive for4 cars. Updates incl. windows & shingles in ‘10.Close to amenities.


956 Stone Church Road EastWell maintained home, clean as a whistle andupdates galore. Immaculate backsplit, could beused as in-law w/entrance to lower level fromgarage and side door. Skylight in kitchen,neutral colors throughout. Huge lot. Concretedeck and walkways with interlock driveway.


31 Normajean AvenueTrendy, stylish raised ranch offers beautifulupdated oak gourmet kitchen, new bathrm,gorgeous hardwd, completely finished basementw/kit, bathrm, & bedrm ideal for in-law suite.Shingles 4 yrs new, furnace & C/air 1 yr new, vinylwindows, close to busses, shopping & schools.


376 Osborne StreetGreat Value in this one floor East HamiltonBeauty! Loads of updates and very wellmaintained by owner of 35 years. Eat-in kitchenwith lots of sunlight, big rec-room with bar,concrete drive, fenced back yard with fruit treesand shed. Close to the Red Hill Pkwy.


520 Rosseau RoadATTENTION INVESTORS! Located in a primeRosedale location, within walking distance tothe arena & golf course. New furnace, newowned hot water tank, new fencing, rec room,bathroom & 100 amp panel & stack. Weepingtiles & backflow preventer done as well.


23 Vineberg DriveOver 2000 sq ft., 4 level backsplit! Family roomw/fireplace, big kitchen w/oak cabinets &island, vaulted ceilings in LR/DR, open fromkitchen to family rm, big rooms & walkout tocovered patio w/3 year old hot tub. Turner park,shopping, & YMCA all within walking distance.


86 Rosemont AvenueClean, bright & immaculate 3 bedrm all brick2.5 storey home avail for immed possession.Features updated kit. cabinets, spacious living &dinning rm w/neutral colour ceramics, 2 pc bathin basement with 2nd kitch, private side drive,fenced in yard, close to busses & shopping


518-500 Green RoadBeautifully maintained and upgraded suite withbreathtaking views from windows and balcony.Features new furnace & c/air system, new 800series doors, freshly painted, amenities includepool, gym, sauna, library, work shop, squashcourts, locker #14, and a parking spot.

Crossword Solution


www.GolfiTeam.com

Rob Golfi*

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara


BeamSville $339,900

4034 Barry Drive Trendy, stylish raised ranch! This cozy 1100sqft. features 9-ft ceilings w/bright big windows,hardwd flrs, kit. w/walk out to patio, renovatedbathrm, sun filled basement w/family rm, gas FP& spare BR w/full bathrm. Fantastic escarpmentneighbourhood w/an extra deep lot

vineland $310,000

3380 Dustan StreetLakefront community living in comfort and style.This 2 bedroom bungalow features relaxing frontporch, 9ft ceilings, 2 full bathrooms, central airconditioning, spacious deck off of kitchen, mainfloor laundry. Homeowner Assoc. fee $30/mo foruse of waterfront clubhouse and beach.

BeamSville $267,900

5103 Connor Drive2 Storey freehold townhome, backing onto park!Home features $20,000 in upgrades, 3pc ensuite,walk in closet, maple cupboards, Californiashutters, C/Air, C/Vacuum, Alarm, access fromgarage to rear, yard, minutes to all amenities.

BeamSville $249,900

5120 Connor DriveFabulous end unit freehold Bungalow 1,110 sqft!90 day closing avail. Come & visit our modelhome & be wowed on this Energy Guide &Tested Home. Incl great size bedroomss w/3 pcensuite off master, kitchen area overlookingfamily rm, attached to next unit only at garage.

BeamSville $339,900

4092 Mountain StreetWant quality, this house is for you! This one flrplan incl. $20,000 in extras, California knockdown ceilings, rounded corners, 120 sq.ft. ofhrdwd flrs, upgraded trim package, maple kit,asphalt drv & much more! Approx 1445 sq.ft.similar to be built.

BeamSville $249,900

5143 Connor DriveFabulous end unit freehold Bungalow 1110 sqftavail. for 60-90 day closing. Come & visit ourmodel home & wowed on this Energy Guide &Tested home. Incl. great size BRs w/4pc ensuiteoff master, kitchen area overlooking family rm,attached to neighbouring unit at the garage only.

grimSBy $324,900

24 Red Haven DriveBright and Airy. Lovely one floor semi in astylish neighbourhood. This home features alovely eat-in kitchen, spacious living rm/diningrm w/ open staircase to finished basementcomplete w/ large fin recroom and extra bedrm

grimSBy $249,900

41 Kenyon CrescentFabulous freehold end unit townhouse! Openconcept main flr w/kitchen, dinette & living rm.Patio door overlooks fenced yard & a 2-tieredwooden deck. Lrg master w/full wall closet, plus2 extra large bedrooms & a 4pc bath. FinishedRec rm w/2pc bath & area for a home office/bar.

St CatHarineS $384,000

40 Glenridge AvenueStylish Old Glenridge Living. This stunning 1-1/2 storey beauty provides the classic beautyof its age and the updates you would expect.This 3 bedroom home oozes character from themoment your drive up!

BeamSville $244,900

5137 Connor Drive2 Storey freehold town home 1386 sq.ft. Similarto be built. Features includes great sized BRsw/3pc ensuite & walk in closet off master, kitw/breakfast area overlooking family room,available for 60 day possession, access fromgarage to rear yard, & min to all amenities.

grimSBy $172,900

#31-125 Livingston AvenueGreat Value in this lovely 3 bedroom end unittownhome! Amazing escarpment views fromyour patio door. Freshly painted, hardwood flrson upper & main levels. Corner gas fireplace inthe living room. Plenty of parking, close toamenities and go station.

grimSBy $356,900

519 Ridge Road East1.37 acres on escarpment ravine near BruceTrail! Features geothermal system Jan ’10,insulated roof, newer windows, amazing lowenergy costs, large 2.5 car garage, large deckw/above ground solar heated pool, and charmingcedar-sided home with large eat-in kitchen.

grimSBy $255,000

15 Adelaide StreetFantastic Investment Opportunity, Duplex withinthe downtown core. 2 bedrm unit on main level& 1 bedroom unit on upper level. Gross incomeof $1885/mth. Includes large double car garage,shingles approx 4 yrs new, and new furnace2011. Please allow 24 Hrs for showings.

St. CatHarineS $147,900

45 McGhieMove Right in! This 2 bedroom home is in agreat location w/easy access to the QEW. Lots ofhardwood floors, newer windows, furnace ‘03,updated panel and wiring, covered front porch,and a nice backyard.

grimSBy $549,900

34 Golf Woods DriveGorgeous 2+2 bedroom bungalow with main flrlaundry, in desirable neighbourhood. In-law setupon lower level with private walk-out. Beautifulhardwood floors with cathedral ceilings and gasfireplace. Master bedroom has luxury ensuite andwalk-in closet. Shows like a dream!

BUNGALOWBUNGALOW

SmitHville $399,900

146 Rock StreetOutstanding & immaculate Custom built 2350sq.ft. Facing park, loaded w/upgrades, featuresmaple kitchen with antique finish and granitecounters, gleaming hardwood flrs, porceline tile,California shutters, luxury ensuite master bedrmwith French doors leading to 16x24 covered patio.

BeamSville $239,900

4181 Fly RoadCharacter home circa 1800’s gracefully set inscenic village of Campden. This 3/4 acre lot isjust minutes away from wineries, & features 3great big bedrms, lrg country size kitchen, mainflr laundry, gorgeous plank flooring, tripledetached 24 x 24 ft. garage/workshop.

grimSBy $179,900

49 Ontario Street, Unit#14Stunning townhome! Quality finishesthroughout incl. hardwd flring, kit w/breakfastbar, oversized master BR, walk-in closet, & amain floor bath. Condo fees are $290.00/month& incl. C/Air, & exterior maintenance, buildinginsururance, hydro, parking, & water.

grimSBy $1,499,900

143 Lake StreetFabulous waterfront property! Custom built,3000 sq ft home with lake views from everyroom. Maple hardwood floors, granite counters,master suite with access to back deck, ensuiteand walk-in shower. Handicap adaptable!

WATERFRONT

grimSBy $1,250,000

134 Olive StreetBEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT property infantastic residential neighbourhood. 75 x 276 ftlot with updated shore protection. Features in-law setup, nanny suite, 4+2 bedrooms, masterwith 6 piece ensuite, floor to ceiling windowsand quick access to QEW.

WATERFRONT IN-LAW SETUP

DUPLEX



www.golfiteam.com


Ashley SidlerSales Representative

Mike McNeilSales Representative

Rosemarie FournierListing Co-ordinator

Jaclyn RossOffice Manager

Together… Delivering More!

Home evaluationNo Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today!

905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188

Sharon StaffordSales Representative

Heather ReidSales Representative

Hans MarcellissenSales Representative

Wendy Murray-NicholsonSales Representative

10 Home-Maintenance Tips for SpringA certified home inspector shares 10 home-maintenance tips for spring

After a long, dark winter,spring's bright sun andwarm winds are, well, a

breath of fresh air. The only down-side? All that sunshine spotlightsyour leaf-filled gutters, cracked side-walks and the dead plants in lastyear's flower beds. Dwight Barnett, acertified master inspector with theAmerican Society of HomeInspectors, shared this checklist tohelp you target the areas that needmaintenance so you can get yourchores done quickly, leaving youtime to go outside and play in thesunshine.1 Check for loose or leaky gutters.

Improper drainage can lead towater in the basement or crawlspace. Make sure downspoutsdrain away from the founda

2 Low areas in the yard or next tothe foundation should be filled

with compacted soil. Spring rainscan cause yard flooding, whichcan lead to foundation floodingand damage. Also, when waterpools in these low areas in sum-mer, it creates a breeding groundfor insects.

3 Use a screwdriver to probe thewood trim around windows,doors, railings and decks. Makerepairs now before the springrains do more damage to theexposed wood.

4 From the ground, examine roofshingles to see if any were lost ordamaged during winter. If yourhome has an older roof covering,you may want to start a budgetfor replacement. The summer suncan really damage roof shingles.Shingles that are cracked, buck-led or loose or are missing gran-ules need to be replaced. Flashing

around plumbing vents, skylightsand chimneys need to be checkedand repaired by a qualifiedroofer.

5 Examine the exterior of the chim-ney for signs of damage. Havethe flue cleaned and inspected bya certified chimney sweep.

6 Inspect concrete slabs for signsof cracks or movement. All exte-rior slabs except pool decksshould drain away from thehome's foundation. Fill crackswith a concrete crack filler or sil-icone caulk. When weather per-mits, power-wash and then sealthe concrete.

7 Remove firewood stored near thehome. Firewood should be storedat least 18 inches off the groundat least 2 feet from the structure.

8 Check outside hose faucets for

freeze damage. Turn the water onand place your thumb or fingerover the opening. If you can stopthe flow of water, it is likely thepipe inside the home is damagedand will need to be replaced.While you're at it, check the gar-den hose for dry rot.

9 Have a qualified heating andcooling contractor clean andservice the outside unit of the airconditioning system. Clean coilsoperate more efficiently, and anannual service call will keep thesystem working at peak perform-ance levels. Change interior fil-ters on a regular basis.

10 Check your gas- and battery-powered lawn equipment to makesure it is ready for summer use.Clean equipment and sharp cut-ting blades will make yardwork

easier. -


Call Today 905-575-7700


Why it’s a good time to buy a home?BY Mark Weisleder

I believe there has never been a

better time to buy a home. I’ve been in

the industry for 28 years as a lawyer

and I haven’t seen so many positive

signs for housing, whether you are

thinking or buying or locking in a mort-

gage.

Here’s why:

Mortgage rates at historic lows:

They can’t get any lower. Four to five-

year fixed mortgages at 3 per cent are

unheard of. It is lower than the variable

rate that most Canadians have been

paying for years. Rates have nowhere

to go but up, either later this year or

next. If you are paying a variable inter-

est rate, lock in now.

Canada’s appeal: This country

has everything going for it — a stable

banking and political environment,

steady real estate market, the natural

resources people want and few social

tensions. That makes us a safe haven in

a volatile world.

Our immigrant draw: Because of

the above, we’re a draw for immi-

grants, often wealthy ones. When they

get here, they need a home. So in my

view while the real estate market may

level off in some areas of Ontario, it

should stay strong in most of the GTA

and likely Canada’s other large urban

centres as well. -

Mortgage defaults: According to

CMHC, over 99 per cent of Canadians

pay their mortgages on time. It quite a

different picture in the U.S. where 7

million homes are in foreclosure and

perhaps another 7 million homeowners

are under water. This represents almost

15 per cent of all homes. So while the

American housing market will likely be

weak for the next few years, this should

not occur in Canada. Our banks are not

dumping homes onto the market, so

there is no downward pressure on

prices.

Recourse Mortgages: In many

U.S. states, if you can’t pay your mort-

gage, the only thing the bank can do is

foreclose; they cannot sue you for any

shortfall. So when homes go under

water, owners give the keys back to the

bank. In Canada, loans are almost all

Recourse, meaning if you don’t pay and

there is a shortfall, the lender can sue

you for the difference. This is another

reason why, in my opinion, even if

times do get tough, Canadian home-

owners will find a way to make the

payments until things improve.

Income-to-price ratio: Another

misleading statistic is that in major

markets, like Toronto, the average price

of a home is now 4.6 times the income

of the average Canadian. This same sta-

tistic was found just before the U.S.

and UK markets went into the tank.

However, if you look at median

incomes of Canadians against the medi-

an cost of homes, this average comes

down to around 3.5, which is not dan-

gerous. Using averages are wrong. A

person receiving social assistance will

not buy a home, and should not be

included in any relevant statistic.

High consumer debt: The warn-

ings about rising debt ratios must be

examined carefully. The Governor of

the Bank of Canada is worried that the

average personal debt ratio is now 156

per cent in Canada. This means a

household making $100,000 per year,

owes $156,000, two-thirds of which is

mortgage debt. Why is this so bad? At

an interest rate of 3 or even 5 per cent,

the amount needed to service the debt is

manageable. Most people do not pay

off their mortgages in one year. Still,

this is another good reason to consoli-

date your debt now, at these low inter-

est rates, and lock in.

No guarantees: Nobody can predict

the future and there’s always the possi-

bility of a major economic shock. Yet,

in a U.S. presidential election year,

politicians will do

whatever is necessary

to prevent it. If the

economy goes into the

tank, so do re-election

chances. The U.S. is

already showing signs

of economic recovery.

No matter what, do

not take on a monthly

payment higher than

what you can afford.

Meet with your lender

or mortgage broker in

advance to figure out

what you can afford

before you start look-

ing for a home. It may

be the best time to buy,

but you need to buy

smart.

Mark Weisleder is alawyer, columnist,author and speakerto the real estateindustry. -

Is this a Good Time to

Refinance your Mortgage?

By Robb Engen

The Bank of Montreal madeheadlines last week, announcing a special5-year fixed rate of 2.99 per cent. Otherbanks followed with their own specialoffers, as the competition for mortgagesheats-up across the country.

This might be a good time toconsider refinancing your mortgage.Here’s why:

When interest rates are low, manypeople refinance in order to savethousands of dollars over the life of theirmortgage. However, it’s important todetermine what the pre-payment chargewill be before refinancing your mortgage.

A pre-payment charge is the amountyou will need to pay for breaking theterms initially negotiated on yourmortgage. This can be a large amount,meaning you won’t actually be savingmoney in the long run.

It doesn’t always make sense tobreak your mortgage, but a good rule ofthumb is if interest rates are at least 0.5per cent lower than your currentmortgage rate, it’s worth looking atrefinancing.

Consider a scenario where youlocked-in at a discounted 5-year fixedmortgage rate of 3.99 percent inJanuary, 2010. The balance on your

mortgage is $250,000.

Even though variable rates are lower,

you’re still concerned about rising

interest rates in the future. Your bank is

now offering a 5-year fixed rate of 3.49

per cent.

In order to break your current

mortgage after two years of payments,

and with three years remaining on your

term, you will be charged an interest rate

differential (IRD) penalty of $3,750*.

The penalty sounds pretty stiff, and

that’s what scares people and prevents

them from taking action. By refinancing

with the new interest rate of 3.49 per cent

for the remaining 36 months, you will

save $128 per month in mortgage

payments, and save more than $6,775 in

interest.

As consumers, we spend a lot of time

shopping around for the best grocery

prices, or looking for the cheapest gas

station, yet we can’t be bothered to

review our mortgage at least once a year

for the opportunity to save thousands of

dollars.

Before refinancing, consider how

long you plan to stay in your home, how

you plan to use any extra cash flow, and

how refinancing can support your overall

financial goals. -

Is now the time to lock in your mortgage?

MaximumExposure Sells

Your Homewww.golfiteam.com

The Golfi Team is ranked in the

Top 100 Re/max Teams in Canada. Paul Lachine illustration



Call Today 905-575-7700

Your house will get noticed FiRStwhen listed by the Team

who gets noticed the moSt!

Call the Golfi team today!

905-575-7700

By Dick Loek/Toronto Star

The Bank of Montreal says

Canada’s somewhat pricey housing

market is likely to cool, not crash.

The Bank of Montreal says

Canada’s somewhat pricey housing

market is likely to cool, not crash.

OTTAWA—The Bank of

Montreal says Canada’s somewhat

pricey housing market is likely to

cool, not crash.

The bank’s economists say the

only real trouble spot is Vancouver,

where there are plenty of vacant high-

priced condos going begging.

The report suggests that alarms

about Canada’s housing market by

international observers, from the

International Monetary Fund to The

Economist magazine, are exaggerated

or simplistic.

Even Toronto’s hot condo market

— one of the subjects of many of the

warnings — is more likely to cool

rather than collapse, the economists

say.

A comparison of house prices to

household incomes shows an increase

from a decade ago, but not an exces-

sive one, the report points out.

Nor are most Canadians close to

an American-style debt wall that pre-

ceded the subprime crash in 2007.

Nevertheless, the BMO econo-

mists say house values are somewhat

pricey and expect sales, starts and

prices to flatten out this year.

Canadian housing is ‘Pricey,’ butfar from a Bubble: BMO

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www.golfiteam.com

Ontario’s hot housing market

continues to spark bidding

wars and, in many cases,

buyers are being advised by agents to

make “clean” offers to get the house they

want.

By “clean”, the agent means an offer

without any conditions in order to make it

more acceptable to the seller. Big mistake.

I constantly hear stories from ‘successful’

home buyers, who bought without an

inspection. They later uncovered major

problems, many of which could have been

identified with a proper inspection. This

meant large repair bills and unfortunate

lawsuits involving unhappy buyers, sell-

ers and real estate agents.

In a column last September, I wrote

about the issue and offered a simple 20-

item home inspection checklist for buy-

ers. The home inspection system is far

from perfect, but it is the best way to safe-

guard your interest.

Inspections are imperfect because in

most cases the inspector is not permitted

to look behind walls or under floors which

means many potential problems are hid-

den. But Andrew Radomski of Pillar to

Post, a professional home inspection com-

pany, tells me that inspection firms can

identify plenty of potential trouble spots.

These include:

• Obsolete knob and tube wiring. This is

found in homes built prior to the 1950s

in most of the original City of Toronto.

It is hard to get insurance if your home

has knob and tube wiring.

• A 60-amp electrical service when the

norm today is either 100 or 200.

Again this will lead to higher insurance

premiums.

• Old galvanized plumbing. It rusts, can

leak and plug up, slowing water flow.

Old lead pipes are a health risk.

• Any roof over 20 years old should prob-

ably be partially or completely

replaced.

• Old foundations will gradually deterio-

rate, causing leaks, and are expensive to

repair.

• Windows can be expensive to replace, if

in poor condition.

Some firms use thermal imaging

technology and, for an additional fee, can

identify problems with the structure,

moisture leakage or air leakage in a home.

They can also better identify when there is

insufficient insulation, plumbing leaks or

poor construction, which can lead to prob-

lems down the road.

In some cases the seller will conduct

a pre-listing inspection and make a sum-

mary of the results available to any inter-

ested buyer. A good idea, but as a buyer,

you cannot rely just on this and should

still conduct your own inspection. You do

not know how thorough the inspection

was and, more important, what qualifica-

tions the inspector had.

Some sellers try and create the

atmosphere for bidding wars by saying

that they will not accept any offers for a

four- or five-day period. They hope that

buyers will come in early, pay for a home

inspection in advance and then be in a

position to make an offer without any con-

ditions. While this is better than doing no

inspection at all, the disadvantage is that

you may pay for this inspection but still

not win the bidding war.

And if you try and buy a

home by yourself, without an

agent, you had better find a

home inspection company

first and determine how much

time they might need to do an

inspection for you. Real

estate agents work with many

home inspection firms, so

they can normally arrange for

an inspection for buyers with-

in forty-eight hours.

In Ontario, the home

inspection industry needs to

be licensed, as there are many

inspectors today who do not

have insurance in the event

they make errors. British

Columbia and Alberta have

licensed inspectors.

Sellers, consider getting

your home inspected before

putting it up for sale and fix

any problems that are identi-

fied. Don’t cover them up or you will face

a lawsuit after closing.

Buyers, do not get pressured into

making an offer without a home inspec-

tion condition, especially for older homes.

I know the process can be frustrating, but

it is better to be frustrated and lose a bid-

ding war than to win a bidding war and

pay more for it after closing. -

By Mark Weisleder

Never buy a house without aHome Inspection

In Ontario's hot housing market buyers are beingadvised by agents to make 'clean' offers without homeinspections. Don't do it.



289-969-6532

Home evaluationNo Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today!

905-575-7700905-945-0188

Crispy Cornflake ChicksYield Makes 7 nests and 14 chicks

Ingredients• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more forbowls

• 3 cups mini marshmallows

• 3 1/2 cups finely crushed corn flakes

• 1/4 cup black and brown candy-coated chocolatepieces, crushed

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels, melted

• 2 teaspoons smooth peanut butter

• Candies, for decorating

Directions1. Toast coconut in 350 degree oven until lightly browned, about 5 minutes, stirring

once. Butter seven 3 1/2-inch bowls; set aside. Melt butter in saucepan. Add marsh-mallows; stir until melted. Stir in cornflakes. Set aside 1 3/4 cups of the mixture ina medium bowl.

2. Stir 1/2 cup coconut, crushed chocolate pieces, and melted chocolate into mixturein pan. Press into bowls to form nests. Refrigerate 1 hour.

3. Form chicks from reserved mixture (attach 1- and 3/4-inch cereal balls with peanutbutter). Decorate with candies. Remove nests from bowls; line with coconut. Addchicks.

Cook's NoteTiny Features: Try snipped licorice ropes for eyes, candy-coated chocolates for wings,and candy-coated sunflower seeds for beaks.

Paper Easter Baskets These pastel paper bags decorated with construc-tion paper are a whimsical alternative to the tradi-tional woven baskets.

Tools and Materials• Colored paper bags and construction paper (both

available at craft stores)•

• Eyelet kit (available at sewing stores)

• Utility knife

• Flower and leaf templates

• Microhole punch (or awl)

• Hammer

• 2-foot length of 2-inch-wide wired ribbon

How-To1. Fold down the top of each bag four times, creating a 1 1/2-inch-wide band.

2. Trace flower and leaf templates onto construction paper (or create your ownshapes). Cut them out with a utility knife.

3. Using a microhole punch or an awl, pierce the center of each flower, the base ofeach leaf, and the front of the bag, or its band. Arrange flowers and leaves on thebag so that all the holes line up.

4. Push a metal eyelet through the holes from the outside of the bag in. Insert the eye-let post (included in the kit) into the back of the eyelet; hammer from the back ofthe eyelet until the eyelet flattens.

5. Punch holes at each end of the band, and fit with the eyelets. Thread the wired rib-bon through the holes; knot to secure, and trim the ends.



www.golfiteam.com

EASTER COLOURING CONTESTEASTER COLOURING CONTEST

3 GRAND PRIZES TO BE AWARDED!Name of Artist:

Address:

Age:

Phone #:

PLEASE MAIL YOUR ENTRIES BY MARCH 23 TO:THE GOLFI TEAM, RE/MAX664 Fennell Avenue EastHamilton, OntarioL8V 1V1

Winners to be announced in April 1st Edition


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Documents

Mar. 1, 2012 Issue 43