Windsor Real Estate Blog

If you’re thinking of selling your home yourself as an “FSBO” (For Sale By Owner), think again, from a buyer’s perspective. Buyers may be more hesitant to deal with sellers representing themselves than with those working with a professional real estate sales representative.Owners selling their own homes probably don’t have access to the information needed (e.g., comparables) in order to assess their home’s true market value. As a result, they’re more likely to overprice their homes and less likely to recognize a fair offer when they see one. For buyers, this can make for a more frustrating and time consuming negotiation process, which is always a turn-off. And so when the market’s moving fast, buyers will be especially motivated to avoid such sellers. Also, real estate transactions can be incredibly complex, requiring detailed financial and legal knowledge in order to see a sale through. For example, do the sellers know how to properly fill out paperwork? Are they familiar with local disclosure laws? Buyers may be wary of dealing with homeowners selling their properties themselves, fearing the sellers lack the breadth and depth of knowledge needed in order to successfully complete the transaction. Lastly, some buyers may be reluctant to deal with do-it-yourself sellers because they’re of the opinion that sellers who won’t hire a professional to handle the sale are frugal and like to cut corners. They may even wonder if the sellers will try to nickel and dime them (e.g., with chattels and fixtures) and where else the sellers will try to cut corners.
For a transaction as significant as buying and selling a home, it’s important to involve real estate professionals, starting with a qualified Windsor real estate sales representative.

Canadians continue to be optimistic about the benefits of home ownership, including its advantage to consumers as a safe investment. Low mortgage rates have resulted in a seller’s market in many cities, although the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) recently noticed a slowing of that trend, with a rising number of new listings resulting in a more balanced national resale housing market. Demand remains very strong, but as CREA President Georges Pahud points out, “The rise in new listings means that buyers may shop around more before making an offer.” In this ever-changing market, you’ll want the services of a professional real estate sales representative on your side, to ensure the smoothest, most successful transactions possible. And you’ll certainly want to be aware of the many things that could adversely affect the ultimate success of any real estate deal. First of all, if the sale is contingent upon you doing something —a home repair, for example — make sure you do it, and do it well. The buyer will notice if you do a cheap patch job instead of a thorough repair. Equally important, be sure to keep up with your regular home maintenance. You don’t want to give the buyer any cause to consider backing out of the sale. Aside from the physical condition of the home, make sure your fi nancial footing is steady. For example, a title search will turn up if there’s a tax lien on your home. Be aware that any liens need to be paid off before the sale can go through. For more tips on how to navigate the smoothest real estate transactions, please visit windsor real estate.

Opportunity is knocking for those considering homeownership for the first time. Historically low interest rates, lower home prices in most markets and the Canadian first-time homebuyer tax credits – have brought first-timers to the market in droves throughout the year.

On top of the programs which allow first time homebuyers to withdrawl up to $25,000 from their RRSP and non-payment of the firsat $2000.00 in Land Transfer Tax we are also experiencing historically low interest rates which make now the perfrct time to buy a home in Windsor Ontario Canada. Visit your #1 source for Windsor Real Estate. We are here to help.

Today’s opportunities aside, here are eight time-honored reasons why those considering homeownership for the first time should make their move.
1. Pride of Ownership
Owning your own home adds to your own sense of self-esteem and personal pride. The satisfaction that comes from feeling connected to the land you occupy and the home in which you live is ages-old.

2. Security of Tenancy
With homeownership comes stability. When renting, you never know when you may have to move because of new ownership, rent increases or other changes. As a homeowner, you decide when and if you want to move.

3. Privacy
While there are usually some limits on the access landlords have to property, almost all landlords can access your property for necessary inspections and maintenance. For many renters, this lack of privacy is a significant discomfort. Homeowners on the other hand generally have much stronger property rights and experience an increase in perceived and actual privacy.

4. Decorating
Homeowners are free to decorate, remodel and accessorize a home any way they want. Not only do you have the right to make improvements, but the value of those improvements becomes yours as well. Having your living space and exteriors just the way you want them can significantly increase your satisfaction with your living environment.

5. Financial Predictability
When you buy a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, you have more predictability over future housing costs. Because your interest rate never changes, the amount of your payment never changes. Financial planning and credit are more easily managed with a fixed-rate mortgage compared to renting.

6. Building Equity
When you own your own home, you pay rent to yourself instead of a landlord. Most homeowners pay for their purchase by obtaining a mortgage. As you pay off that mortgage, your equity builds and you gain an increasingly larger share in a valuable asset. Over time, that asset can work for you in many ways, such as home equity lines of credit. And of course, a home is a wonderful asset to pass along in an estate.

7. Investment Appreciation
There are certainly no guarantees of property value appreciation. In the long-term, however, real estate valuations almost always increase. This means that when you decide to sell your home, its value may be significantly higher than when you purchased it. The difference in value is called appreciation. You can reinvest that appreciation in other real estate or you may wish to downsize and keep the value of that appreciation for retirement or other purposes. Windsor Ontario is the most affordable place to live in all of Canada and we can help you find your dream home at historically low prices. Visit Windsor Real Estate for more information

8. Tax Benefits
In Canada, the cost of home mortgage interest and property taxes can be tax-deductible. Depending on your circumstances, thousands of dollars in taxes can be saved each year. Some additional benefits are designed specifically for first-time homebuyers which include using your RRSP and associated deductions to contribute to your first home purchase and provide you with a sizable tax deduction. Call me anytime at (519) 817-5588 or visit windsor real estate and I can help you to get the most out of your first home purchase.

If you have any doubts, contact the #1 source for Windsor real estate. I can answer any questions you may have about homeownership and explain the buying process to you. I am here to help.

Planning in advance can make the move to your new home stress free, efficient and cost effective. A good plan will make all the difference as many steps need to be taken long before the day that the first box is loaded onto the moving van a good plan will make all the difference. Taking the time early in the process to write down and organize these activities will pay dividends closer to your actual moving day.
To avoid moving stress for you, your family and friends, try to break up these tasks over an eight week period. Pre-planning also gives you the opportunity to shop around and save money on your move. Here is a basic framework to get you started thinking about your next big move!

8 weeks Before
• Get estimates from at least three professional movers. If you’re planning to do it yourself, get estimates on rental trucks and maybe talk to a few friends.
• Decide what you’ll be taking, tossing, and replacing. This is a great opportunity to clean house or have a yard sale.
• If you’re moving to another city, contact the Chamber of Commerce for a New Resident packet, and ask your agent for information. We specialize in relocation assistance. For more information visit Windsor Ontario Real Estate. We are here to help.

6 Weeks Before
• Inventory your non-furniture possessions – kitchenware, decorative items, electronics, apparel and so on.
• Complete a change of address form with the post office. For a fee they will forward mail to your new location.
• Notify organizations, credit card companies, and publications of your new address.
• Obtain copies of all your medical, dental, legal, accounting and veterinary records.
• If your children are changing schools, arrange to transfer their educational records.
• Itemize moving-related costs with your mover, including packing, loading, special charges and insurance.

4 Weeks Before
• Make arrangements for packing your belongings. If you’ll be using professionals, schedule a day or two before the move. If you’re doing the packing, be sure you have enough boxes, packing materials and tape.
• Arrange for short- or long-term storage if needed.
• Make travel arrangements for pets, including medical records, immunizations and medications.

3 Weeks Before
• Begin packing items you won’t need right away or plan to put in storage.
• Contact utilities on both ends of the move to end/turn on services on specific dates.
• Confirm travel arrangements for your family and pets.

2 Weeks Before
• Cancel newspaper and other delivery services.
• If necessary, arrange and confirm bank accounts and local services in your new neighbourhood.

1 Week Before
• Gather important papers, records, and valuables for protected shipment to your new home or a safe deposit box.
• Purchase any prescription medications you’ll need for the next few weeks.

Day Before/Day of Move
• Defrost refrigerator/freezer and give away all perishable food.
• Keep a box marked “Last Box Packed/First Box Unpacked” for tools, flashlights, first aid kit and other essentials. This should be the last box loaded on the truck.
• Pack items you’ll carry with you: valuables, financial records, personal papers and other important items.
• Give the movers a telephone number and address where they can reach you.
Moving is a big production – but with a detailed action plan, you’ll be well down the road before you ever leave for your new destination.

For more helpful tips and ideas on Buying, Selling, Financing, First Time Homebuying and all your Real Estate needs visit the #1 source on the web for Windsor Ontario Real Estate. We are here to help!

Turn on any financial news program and at some point you’ll hear the experts extolling the virtues of diversification. Real estate, even through the market downturn, has long been considered a conservative, long-term strategy to growing wealth.
In fact, that very downturn has created a historic buying opportunity for potential homebuyers and investors alike. The combination of lower home prices across Canada and historically low mortgage rates, two essential factors that usually don’t trend in the same direction, have triggered a buyer’s market in many areas of the country. For real estate investors who want to rent their properties, this can make the difference in achieving positive cash flow sooner or right off the bat. Windsor Ontario Canada is a hot spot for cheap real estate which might be just the kick your investment portfolio needs!
While some seasoned real estate investors make it look easy, to be successful, beginners should follow some basic principles.
• Learn all you can. Before committing your cash, you should have a fundamental understanding of real estate. For example, be aware that, in general, investment properties are not liquid investments. Barring exceptional circumstances, real estate does not sell at a moment’s notice. It could take days or months to sell a property, depending on the strength of the market in a particular region.
• Consider cash flow. You’ll need to have enough capital on hand to cover any short-term losses due to vacancies between tenants.
• Start small. Look into buying a condominium, single-family home or a duplex. Leave large apartment buildings and commercial properties to the pros.
• Inquire at the local Chamber of Commerce about companies relocating into or out of the area. Company movement is one indicator of demand for rental and/or office space.
• Find a property that will be in demand. Look for a moderately priced home with three or four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a garage that sits on a quiet street.
• Research the property. The most common way first-time investors lose is by failing to investigate a property thoroughly. Look beyond the front door. Investigate the reputation of the school district, the crime rate, and plans for expanding a nearby highway or developing vacant land. Ask a local real estate professional about the area, its history, and how fast (or slow) properties are moving. Contact your #1 source for Windsor Real Estate. We are here to help!
• Inspect the home you’re considering for signs of water damage, such as stains on the ceiling and crinkling or gathering wallpaper; open and close every door and window; and check all electrical sockets by plugging in an appliance. Get an independent home inspection, roof inspection and termite inspection. Unexpected repair costs can eat away your cash flow. Because even the best inspection can’t always predict problems, try to set aside some of the rental income for unexpected repairs.
• Spend time driving the streets of the neighborhood noting the condition of other properties. Are lawns maintained? Are roofs in good shape? Are homes kept up?
• Be ready to make fixes quickly and respond to the renter’s needs. If you’re not prepared to be a hands-on landlord, consider hiring a property management firm.
• See your tax advisor for related planning and laws that can affect your investment decisions.
Remember, investing in a property is much different than living in one, and while emotion and attachment can be prime motivators when it comes to homes, it is return on investment that counts when investing in real estate.
We are experts in Investment Real Estate in Windsor Ontario Canada. Contact me directly at (519) 817-5588. We are here to help.

Unlike an automobile, you can’t test drive a home before you purchase it. You have to base your decision on other factors such as layout, condition and much more. And, of course, the seller is obligated to disclose the property’s condition that may alert you to issues such as previous mold, defective water heater or leaky roof. Yet, that still doesn’t always paint the entire picture. Here are six questions you should consider asking the seller to gain additional insight about the prospective home before you make a final decision.

1. Why is the seller selling the house?
This question may help you evaluate the “real value” of the property. Is there something about the house the seller does not like? If so, you may be able to adjust the purchase offer accordingly.

2. How much did the seller pay for the home?
In some instances, the answer to this question may help you negotiate a better deal. However, it is important to remember that the purchase price is influenced by several factors, like the current market value and any improvements the seller may have made to the home. The original purchase price might not have anything to do with the current value of the house.

3. What does the seller like most and least about the property?
By asking the seller what he or she likes most and least about the property, you might get some interesting information. In a few cases, what a seller likes the most about a home might actually be something the buyer is looking to avoid. For example, if the seller describes his house as being in a “happening neighborhood,” the buyer might consider this a negative factor because the area may be too noisy or busy for his or her taste.

4. Has the seller had any problems with the home in the past?
It is also a good idea to ask the seller if he or she has had any problems with the home while living there. Has the seller had problems with a leakage from the upstairs bedroom in the past? If so, even if the leak has been corrected, the floor and walls around the bathroom might have been damaged. You should check that these items were repaired properly.

5. Are there any nuisances?
Use this question to find out about barking dogs, heavy airplane traffic or even planned changes to the community, such as a planned street widening. This may give you insight on why the seller is really moving.

6. How are the public schools in the area?
Because the value of a community is usually greatly influenced by the public schools in the area, finding out the buyer’s perception can give you some insight about the quality of the area’s schools.
Knowing all you can about a prospective home will help you make a more informed decision as well as offer. Your real estate professional can be a great resource in helping you get your key questions answered and give you advice on how to evaluate your findings.

For more helpful real estate information in Windsor Ontario visit windsor real estate.

Packing is one of those dreaded but necessary chores of moving. Not only is it time consuming, but it sheds light on how much we really have accumulated since the last move. But it can be a manageable task by starting early and having a plan.
Don’t wait until the last minute.
Moving is stressful enough. Give yourself at least six weeks, which gives you enough time to pack a few boxes each day.
Take inventory of your items to determine how many packing boxes you will need. As a rule of thumb, use small boxes for small, heavy items such as books and canned goods; medium-size for bulkier, not so heavy items like linens and pots; and reserve larger boxes for very bulky lightweight items such as lamp shades.
Obtain boxes from a moving company or collect sturdy boxes from local supermarkets and liquor stores. Also, consider investing in specialty boxes, such as wardrobe and mirror/painting cartons. Wardrobe boxes are specially designed to transport clothing on hangers and mirror/painting cartons adjust to fit large sizes.
Besides boxes, make sure you have marking pens, packing peanuts or bubble wrap, strong 2-inch wide packing tape, and unprinted newspaper. The ink from printed newspaper can rub off onto your individual items.
Pack strategically.
Plan out how you will pack up your belongings. Decide what needs to be packed first such as seldom used and out-of-season items. Then work your way up to everyday items, like dishes.
It’s also a good idea to pack one room at a time. Places like your attic, basement, garage and storage closets are a great place to start. Clearly mark on each box the contents and the room it will go in at your new residence. For fragile items, clearly mark “fragile” on the box and a directional arrow to indicate the correct upright position.
Decide what you will need to access as soon as you arrive at your destination. Write “Open First” on these boxes and load them onto the truck last or put them in your car. You also should pack a box with essentials for your first few nights, such as prescription medicine, toiletries, a telephone, clothing, towels, toilet paper, and bed linen.
Make sure to protect your belongings.
You’ll want to make sure that your belongings get from Point A to Point B in one piece. To avoid damage, follow these packing techniques.
Computers: Before packing your computer, back up your data on either an online service or a portable hard drive. If possible, pack the computer in its original boxes and packaging. If you no longer have them, use a box with shock resistant insulation or create padding at the bottom and all around the sides. If you will be using packing peanuts, wrap the computer in a plastic bag so the peanuts won’t get inside and damage the computer. Place the CPU in the center of the box with the motherboard side lying flat on the bottom. Protect the top with more padding. Make sure the computer is a tight-fit in the box. Use this technique for your monitor and printer. Don’t forget to remove the print cartridge and paper from the printer. This same procedure can be used with other electronics.
Glasses and stemware: Stuff a bit of paper inside a glass, wrap the stem, and then wrap each piece individually. Place glasses face down on a 3- to 4-inch cushion of crumpled newspaper. Top off the box with 2 to 3 inches of crumpled paper.
Plates: Create a 3- to 4-inch cushion of crumpled paper in a sturdy box or dish pack. Wrap up to four plates at a time by taking two sheets of newspaper, place a plate slightly off center, fold paper over the plate, then stack a plate on top of the covered plate. Fold paper back over the second plate and repeat this process until four plates are wrapped. Now wrap the bundle and place it on end in the box. Continue to fill the box with bundled plates, and then top it with 2 to 3 inches of crumpled paper.
Large furniture pieces: Have large plastic bags or shrink wrap on hand to protect furniture. Use rags, blankets, comforters and towels for padding.
Artwork and mirrors: Wrap all pieces individually with bubble wrap or cardboard. For artwork framed behind glass or mirrors, tape an “X” across the mirror to keep pieces in places in case it should break. Place each piece in its own flat, fitted box and fill in any space with crumpled newspaper.
A few other tidbits.
• Avoid damage from leakage by packing your liquids (including medicine) in leak proof containers such as zippered plastic bags. Plastic bags also come in handy for small odds and ends.
• Keep box weights to 50 lbs. or less.
• Use masking tape to secure lids to jars and bottles; hold down moveable parts; and affix nuts, bolts, screws or nails to associated items.
• Place a sock filled with coffee grinds or baking soda in your washer, freezer, and refrigerator to prevent odors.
For more helpful tips on real estate in Windsor visit windsor real estate.

It’s not surprising that two of the most popular rooms for home makeovers are the kitchen and bathroom. When potential homebuyers are searching for homes, they generally are more attracted to homes with updated kitchens and baths. These same rooms rank high in return on remodeling investment at resale, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost-vs-Value 2008-09 Study.

However, both can be pricey ventures. According to the same study, the national average for minor kitchen remodel was $21,246. A sample remodel at this cost includes replacing cabinet fronts, flooring, laminate countertops and oven and cooktop; installing mid-priced sink and faucet, adding wall cover and repainting trim.

The national average for a mid-range bathroom remodel was $15,899, which included replacing fixtures, installing a porcelain-on-steel tub, new shower and ceramic tile flooring.

If you’re like many consumers today, you are more budget conscious and may not be able to afford thousands of dollars on a remodeling project. Here are some alternatives that will give your kitchen and bathroom a fresh, modern look without breaking your piggy bank.

Kitchen
Cabinets—Give your cabinets a fresh look by either refinishing or refacing the fronts at a more economical cost than buying new ones. You can even take the center face out and install a glass front.
Hardware—Replacing your cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, can give your kitchen an entirely new look.
Paint—A fresh coat of paint is always a sure bet. And it is one of the least expensive ways to give a room a makeover. To further transform the room, choose more modern hues, such as a warm yellow or deep red.
Countertops—The price of natural quartz or stone countertops can quickly eat away your kitchen remodeling budget. Less expensive, yet still attractive alternatives are solid surface materials such as Silestone® or granite and ceramic tiles. An even more affordable choice is laminate, which is easy to install yourself and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
Faucets and Sinks—Add a fresh new look by replacing your sink and faucet with a high-arched spout in an updated finish, such as brushed nickel, brushed chrome or stainless steel.
Backsplash—Another option to modernize your kitchen’s look is adding a backsplash. But rather than having ceramic tiles, consider creating a mosaic with ceramic or glass or install a faux backsplash panel.
Window treatments—Switch out older valances with options that let the natural light in.
Lighting—By adding under cabinet lights or even track lighting, you can create a dramatic look to your kitchen.

Bathroom
Paint—As with the kitchen, a new coat of paint is a low-cost way to renew a room’s look. Choose a warm color to give the room an intimate feel.
Showerheads—Change out old showerheads with a new rain showerhead.
Shower Doors – If you still use shower curtains for your bathtub, you can update the look by installing glass doors. Frameless doors are preferable. However, if the walls aren’t flush to the tub area, framed doors will still give you the modernized look you’re seeking.
Hardware—Just as with the kitchen, replacing the knobs and handles can give your vanity a fresh new appearance.
Lighting and Mirrors—In addition to the vanity, the lighting and mirrors above that area can combine to make the perfect focal piece for your bathroom. If changing the vanity is not in your budget, consider swapping out your unframed glass for a more decorative mirror and add a new lighting fixture.

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to add pizzazz to your kitchen or bath. Just changing one or two elements can make a huge difference in its appeal to you and a potential buyer down the road. For more helpful ideas to improve the value and salability of your home visit windsor real estate book your free personal home consultation by e-mail at chris@prudentialselect.ca

Arranging for an inspection prior to purchasing a home can bring peace of mind when taking such a big financial step. Knowing what to expect both inside and out will help you make an informed decision about the value of the home and its future upkeep. Nice landscaping and tastefully decorated sunny interiors are some of the great selling points of a home, it is however critical to know what condition the structure and mechanical systems are in before committing your heart and hard earned dollars to your new home.

When presenting an offer, always consider including a clause that the sale is conditional upon a satisfactory structural inspection, and specify when the inspection is to be carried out to protect yourself. A home inspection accomplishes two important goals. It gives you a chance to determine the condition of the house, its structural soundness, and the condition of its mechanical systems. Furthermore, it brings any problems to the seller’s attention at a time when they can be resolved before closing the sale.

A comprehensive inspection consists of a visual examination of the structure from top to bottom, including but not limited to the heating, air conditioning systems, the interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, the foundation, basement and pools. It is highly recommended that you plan to attend the inspection. An inspection may typically require about 2 to 3 hours depending on the size and age of the building. Following the examination, the inspector provides a report that not only points out possible defects, or areas of concern, but also the positive aspects of the structure and type of maintenance necessary to keep the home in tip top shape. The home inspector should be willing to answer any questions you might have and to clarify the limitations of the inspection to avoid misunderstandings.

Buying a house may seem like an endless series of critical, important decisions. When you find the house that is right for you, you need to find a Home Inspector to educate you about the condition of your new home. This is a commonplace and a wise decision, even when buying a newly constructed home; the additional peace of mind that a professional home inspection offers is invaluable.

For more information and professional guidance through the home buying and selling process visit windsor real estate or contact me at (519) 817-5588 or e-mail to chris@prudentialselect.ca I am on your side.

There is no question that in many parts of the country, houses are currently on the market longer. As a seller, this slow-down means there is more competition for a limited pool of potential buyers. Consider the following five tips to place your home on the fast track to sale:

Price It Right

The first 30 days are the most critical. If your home is priced too high, interested buyers may never even tour your listing. The longer the property is on the market, the fewer the prospects.  In many ways price has surpassed location as the primary consideration in a home purchase and as such this bodes very well for Windsor and Essex County as one of the most affordable places to live in all of Canada.

 Deciding the value of a home isn’t an exact science. Yet, there is data to help you determine a fair asking price that is right on target. You may want to hire a real estate appraiser for an objective, unbiased estimate. Then consult with a real estate professional who can help you determine true market value based on a comparable market analysis, which will include recent home sale transactions as well as homes currently on the market. From your analysis, you may want to price your home conservatively to give it a competitive edge.

 Make Your Home Irresistible

Unless they are looking for a fixer-upper, most homesellers are more likely to make a bid on a home that they can enjoy immediately. Therefore, you need to create an environment the buyer can’t resist. In other words, do everything you can to make the home so attractive, charming, cozy, inviting, comfortable and exciting that a buyer will want to buy that lifestyle for himself.

 Evaluate the home from a buyer’s point of view. An experienced real estate professional will be able to offer an objective view and will also know what buyers are asking for. Get your home in tip-top shape by making repairs and cosmetic improvements, and removing clutter. This may mean investing in a few upgrades to modernize your home’s look such as installing newer carpet and light fixtures and painting the walls a neutral shade.

 Create Traffic

If you want buyers to see your home, you must first find the buyers. Work with your real estate professional to design a marketing plan that is flexible and capitalizes on your property’s most desirable features. Your strategy should include ways to reach buyers online and offline – such as word of mouth, the Internet, yard signs, direct mail, open houses and so on.

 Go with a Professional

Selling a home is more than just putting a sign in your yard and having a listing on the Internet. And in a competitive market, you don’t really want to take the chance of making novice mistakes that can slow the selling of your home. By hiring a real estate professional, you get the benefit of an experienced marketer and negotiator who is familiar with real estate issues in your community. A real estate professional can offer worthy advice on pricing and staging your home based on their vast experience.

 Plus, there’s the added value of the peer-to-peer networking among real estate professionals, which can bring buyers and sellers together – sometimes even before the property goes on the market.   

Offer Incentives

Offering incentives can be just the impetus a potential buyer needs to select your property over others. You may want to consider offering a carpet or paint allowance. Or, pay for a professional home inspection or a home warranty – and, depending on your market and budget, offer to pay some of the closing costs.

Don’t be discouraged if there are competing homes for sale in your neighborhood. With just a few smart moves, you can turn a buyers’ market in your favor.

For more helpful tips and hints visit windsor real estate