For the fourth time in as many years, the finance minister moved to tighten the mortgage and lending landscape. The most significant change is the reduction to the amortization period, bringing it to a maximum of 25 years, the level it had stood historically before rising to as high as 40 years during the heady pre […]
Recently, I have had a few questions come up regarding HST and how it applies to house purchases in Ontario. To make sure it is clear, I have included in this blog all the information you need to know. The biggest change that took effect when the HST came into being was to effectively add […]
The real estate market in the Ottawa area continues to be a healthy one! When you look at the statistics year over year, the increase in sales is significant. When you add to this an increased inventory and gradual price increases, you have all indications of a continued strong, steady market. Members of the Ottawa […]
The Ottawa Real Estate Market continues on a steady course. Re-sale housing inventory is up by 6.9% since last year and interest rates remain low – all indicating that Ottawa remains a healthy, stable market. Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,568 residential properties in April through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® system, […]
An early spring brought with it a significant increase in residential sales and, with interest rates remaining low, the market continues to be healthy and balanced. Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,396 residential properties in March through the Boards Multiple Listing Service® system, compared with 1,240 in March 2011, an increase of […]
The real estate market in Ottawa is often a very competitive place to purchase real estate. When a house is listed that shows well and is priced aggressively it will often attract more than one buyer. This creates a multiple bid situation. I have been in this situation too many times to count. Twice in the last […]
The resale housing market showed a steady increase during the month of February. Coupled with a healthy inventory of properties for sale, this indicates we are heading into spring with a balanced market which is great for both buyers and sellers. Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,009 residential properties in February through […]
Have you ever bought something only because the price was good? I have and I always learn something from it. It is not the price that really matters, for me it is the value of the product or service. Perfect example is my accountant. My previous guy was a bit rough around the edges. He was slow […]
The Ottawa Resale Housing Market had a fairly typical January although inventory of homes for sale is higher than a year ago, offering more choice for buyers. Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 684 residential properties in January through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® system compared with 677 in January, 2011, an increase […]
Most predictions are that Ottawa’s housing market will remain stable in spite of slower economic growth and the continued uncertainty in global markets. I tend to agree with this outlook. The only question mark relates to the upcoming federal budget. Substantial cuts to jobs in the public service could have a temporary effect on our […]
