OREB MLS® Real Estate Statistics April 2011

Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,536 residential properties in April through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® system compared with 1,814 in April 2010, a decrease of 15.3 per cent. The five-year average for home sales in April is 1,612.

Of those sales, 316 were in the condominium property class, while 1,220 were in the residential property class. The condominium property class includes any property, regardless of style (i.e. detached, semi-detached, apartment, stacked etc.), which is registered as a condominium, as well as properties, which are co-operatives, life leases and timeshares. The residential property class includes all other residential properties.

“Sales in April 2010 soared well above average in advance of the implementation of the Harmonized Sales Tax in Ontario last July. Normally in Ottawa, we see a brisker sales period beginning at the end of April or early May, but last year’s spring market started earlier by about three months due to the HST. That surge in sales pushed April’s five-year average up significantly; it’s not out of the ordinary for about 1,500 homes to be sold in April in our market,” said Board President Joanne Tibbles.

“Home prices still continued to rise at the usual moderate rate last month, demonstrating a solid demand for resale homes in Ottawa. Re-sale housing inventory is up 17.2 per cent from this time last year, indicating that Ottawa is clearly in a healthy, balanced market,” Tibbles added.

The average sale price of residential properties, including condominiums, sold in April in the Ottawa area was $351,226, an increase of 5.4 per cent over April 2010. The average sale price for a condominium-class property was $255,232, an increase of 2.1 per cent over April 2010. The average sale price of a residential-class property was $376,090, an increase of 5.4 per cent over April 2010. The Board cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing trends over time but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold.

Source OREB

The Perfect Kanata Neighbourhood

When you discuss buying property, the expression "location, location, location" usually springs to mind, and that is so true. While it is not uncommon to consider the type of house you want first when you are looking for your ideal home, did you know that finding a suitable Kanata neighbourhood is even more important? If you simply hunt for a perfect home in Kanata without considering the right neighborhood, you may regret it later. It may develop into a potential challenge for you in the long run, to say the least.

Before you decide on a new Kanata neighbourhood, here are some things you need to consider.

1. Is there a school in the vicinity?

If you have school-age children, having a school in the vicinity of your new Kanata neighbourhood is an important factor to take into consideration. When there is a school nearby, you will have less worry about their security and well-being since your children will not have to walk far to reach school. Make sure that you try to find a Kanata neighbourhood that has a number of schools in the community.

2. How safe is it?

Don't ever get caught up in the illusion of a lovely and quiet suburb. You have to ensure that the new neighbourhood you are looking for is not a target for crime. Ask your Kanata real estate agent during your house viewing to help you get the crime statistics and data for various neighbourhoods in Kanata.

3. Does a community center exist in the neighborhood?

You will be able to find a community center in the majority of neighbourhoods in Kanata. Some neighborhoods, however, do not have one. When you see a Kanata community center that looks inviting, take note of its location. You do not want one that is located at the far end of a large neighbourhood if you need to walk the distance with small children.

4. Does it have a local church nearby?

If you regularly attend church, you may want to consider getting a home in a neighbourhood with a local church nearby. This would also depend on your church affiliation since you do not want to end up driving across the city just to reach your regular place of worship if you attend the church often.

5. Is shopping easily accessible in the neighbourhood?

Do you find yourself regularly going out to the nearest store to get a lot of your home supplies and provisions? It is best to look for the ideal Kanata home that is in close proximity to shopping. Also note the different kinds of shops located in the area to ensure that they have whatever you need.

While looking at the various neighborhoods in Kanata, you should consider these points and you should also make up your own personal list of amenities you would you like to have in your new Kanata neighbourhood. Remember to bring this list with you every time you have a viewing appointment with your Kanata property agent, especially when you meet for the first time. This will help your real estate agent direct you to the perfect neighbourhood for you in Kanata.

The Expert's Guide To Finding A Home In Morgan Grant

Getting in touch with a qualified and knowledgeable real estate agent in Morgan Grant is one of the simplest ways to get started when you begin looking for a home in Morgan Grant .You may easily lose your focus if you only surf real estate websites on the Internet that exhibit stunning pictures of homes and make them appear like beautiful palaces. By  only looking at pictures depicting Morgan Grant homes for sale, it is possible for you to get swayed into making a rash buying decision since the homes may not be as good as they look. The Morgan Grant home may actually be in a mess or have hidden structural problems that can trigger unexpected, serious problems in the long run.

A qualified Morgan Grant real estate agent can guide you towards a home that is within your budget and get you a deal that works best for you. Having viewed and shown to other prospective buyers the homes you see on the Internet, Morgan Grant agents are better able to honestly describe the real condition of each home that is being offered.

Property agents in Morgan Grant also know the true market value of houses in various parts of Morgan Grant . They can tell you in a snap the sort of prices homes in different Morgan Grant neighborhoods will fetch. A similar home in one locality can have a $100,000 price difference, or more, when compared to another in a different suburb. Your real estate agent will be able to determine if the selling price represents a fair indication of its real market value in Morgan Grant .

Hunting for a home yourself can result in a lot of wasted time and resources. You should hire an experienced real estate agent in Morgan Grant to save your time and energy. The agent will be able to evaluate your ideal home requirements and show you the best value for money properties in Morgan Grant that fit into your budget.

Keep in mind that a real estate agent's income is largely dependant on giving the best service possible to their clients before concluding a sale. You can be assured that they will try their very best to help you get the perfect home in Morgan Grant . If you need anything or have a question about homes in Morgan Grant , call me up and I'd be happy to talk more about it with you.

1 Bedroom Condominium at Place des Gouverneurs - HomeLife Capital Realty

IMMACULATE 1bed/1bath condo in Luxurious Place des Gouverneurs!  Impeccably maintained by original owners. Spacious, bright kitchen with plenty of cupboard space and Gorgeous Granite countertops and Breakfast Bar.  Open concept Living/Dining room with gleaming hardwood floors, large window and patio door to balcony.  Lovely master bedroom with walk-in closet, cheater door to Bathroom.  Professionally painted 2011. Call it Home Today! Minutes to downtown, the St-Laurent Shopping Centre and many shops. A stone throw from the TransitWay.

Asking: $257,000

Call today to book your showing! 613-800-2211!

Tips for Ottawa First Time Home Buyers

Making the decision to bite the bullet and finally start looking for a home of your own can be a very exciting time in your life. That being said, it can also be a very nerve wracking and apprehensive time for you when you are actually going through the process. It is not an easy feat, that’s for sure, but there are some common sense ways that the first time home buyer should keep in mind along the way to keep things in focus. Focus is the key word. You must keep everything in perspective about what you want and what you really need. You really do need to differentiate between the two.

The first and most important idea you want to keep at the forefront is that you need to live within your means. If you do not honestly evaluate your financial status and know exactly what monies are coming in, compared to how much is being paid out, you are going to find yourself knee deep in debt further down the line. Set your budget for the price range you will look at right off the bat. Do not base that number on the fact that you are expecting to get a raise or a promotion this year. That’s a wild gamble. Go on the facts and figures that you are working with RIGHT NOW. If you don't, it will come back to bite you in the butt sooner than you could imagine.

Don't live on pipe dreams. Know your budget and stick with it. Real estate agents are notorious for telling the prospective first time home buyer that they can afford something much more lavish and expensive. They have a way of tapping into the excitement of it all and pulling you in to believing you really could afford something nicer. Don't fall for it! The agent is not the one who is going to have to rob Peter to save Paul. They will not be the person debating on whether the gas should get paid OR the water, cause you can't swing paying both. And heaven forbid, another child arrives unexpectedly, they won’t be sitting up at night worrying about how you will get enough diapers and food, and a good education for that precious child. It will be you in the middle. Set your budget for the here and now and stick to it.

Keep in mind that, aside from the actual purchase of the home, there will be furniture you need and appliances to purchase, and many other little expenses for moving in that add up very quickly. Make it easy on yourself. After all you don't want to end up buying an overly expensive house that you are   never in enough to enjoy because you had to get 3 more jobs to pay for it. That’s not living. That just exists. Don't fall into that trap. The first house you buy is going to be just that, it’s your first house. It is not going to be your last. Bigger and better things will come your way as you advance in your career or establish better business opportunities.  Everything will change. Your day will come to have that big house on the hill with the white picket fence around it. You want to be happy in your new home and you are excited. Keep that happiness and excitement alive by not overextending yourself. Base your decisions on buying a new home around facts and figures, not fiction. You will be happier in the long run.

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

There is so much to be said about Ontario’s capital city.  Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is indeed regarded as one of the most affordable cities among 144 international cities. Ironically, the city also rated at number 19 out of 200 cities for having the best quality of life. That speaks volumes about the people, their business ethics, and their zest for life in general. That's not surprising when you realize all the artistic, musical, and cultural opportunities that are made available to the people of this prime city. They do know how to have fun and it shows in their friendly dispositions. Not only have those, the people who make up the 900,000 strong populations seemed to be a very intellectual breed too. There are more doctors, engineers and scientist graduates residing in Ottawa than any other city in the country can even come close too. It is also has well over 1500 high tech companies operating there.

People from all over the world tour this magical city regularly to experience a glimpse of what it’s all about. The city has over 30 museums in it, which is the most of any Canadian regions. The most visited museum, The Canadian Museum of Civilization is in Ottawa. Festivals in this town are in abundance. There is always something to celebrate, whether it's the tulips in the spring, the Blues fest in summer, or The Chambers Music Festival at summers end. In the winter months, it’s a picture perfect winter wonderland with the freezing temperatures and ice skaters galore gathering at the ponds to whirl around a bit. The most famous of the rinks is Ottawa’s Rideau Canal. It is the largest in the entire world. It’s a terrific gathering place, on this naturally frozen pond, for kids, teens, or for romantic rendezvous for all ages. Nothing like a nice cup of hot chocolate afterwards to take the chill off and then get right back to it.  There is always a gathering of minds and spirits and tremendous talent among the Canadians. Physical endurance, as well as stamina is evident by the mass numbers of people involved in biking, skating, hiking, and jogging.

There are over hundreds of miles of trails in and around the city. They are specifically designed to accommodate those who enjoy being next to nature and crave the fresh air and natural beauty the city has to offer. It’s not unusual on a Sunday morning to have miles of the main parkways shut down to vehicles so the bikers and joggers can enjoy yet more space. There is an entire network of recreational paths available to those who care to partake in the splendor of it all. The trails highlight the green, lush land and focus on the cities conservation efforts. There is a marvelous story that accompanies each and every site in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The people who live there will never leave and the people who are passing through on a visit never want to leave.

10 Things to Do and Visit in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto, Ontario, Canada is well known for its architecture, museums, galleries, music, dining, and of course, shopping.  The diversity of its people and the wonderful ambiance around the city make it a wonderful experience in visiting and a great place for those who reside there. You will never want to leave. There is so much to see and do.

One of the great architectural landmarks is the CN Tower. Originally, the tower was built as a center for telecommunications; today it also serves as one of the major, eye catching, and attractions to tourists. It is 113 stories high and has a 2 1/2 inch thick, glass floor that is sure to give you more than a few butterflies as you look down below you.  Another super feature is the glass enclosed restaurant that revolves 360 degrees. If you are brave enough, there is the Sky pod Observation Lookout that goes up 33 stories higher!

For the sports fans, hopefully you can attend one of The Toronto Maple Leafs games. If you are a theater or music buff, there’s always a musical advertised on Kings Street at The Princess of Wales Theater. Museums are plentiful and the Royal Ontario Museum in Queens Park is a delight for adults and kids alike. It is a marvel to see. The museum has 4 humongous carved totem poles, the largest being around 80 feet high, that rise up out of the center of the stairwells. The museum houses over 6 million pieces of fascinating objects in archeology and science. There are over 40 galleries of art.

Shopping is an extraordinary affair at The Path, the world’s largest underground shopping center that connects downtown and the business district. You will find stores, places to eat, and many areas to just sit a spell. You will need that! Plenty of maps are readily available if you lose your way. Another shopping area you won’t want to miss is Honest Eds. It is a true bargain store. You won’t miss it. It has a sign that is lit up with over 100,000 lights! China Town is another adventure in shopping where you can find great deals on clothing and a wide array of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean food to feast on.

If you want to get out of the high energy levels of the big city in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, get out into the little neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own special charm. You check out the Polish bakery in Roncesvalles. If antiques are your niche, you certainly won't want to pass up a visit to a Leslieville to browse some quaint little shops with a style all their own.

Be sure to get a ride on the trackless train ride through High Park to get a stunning and magical view of the parks gorgeous 399 acres of lush land. Sit back and enjoy the beauty of it all. You are definitely going to want to think about spending much more time in Toronto. There is so much more to discover. 

Stats November 2010 - Ottawa East

The neighborhood of Ottawa East in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 2 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a 50% drop for the neighborhood of Ottawa East when compared to November 2009. Average days on market have gone down dramatically to 7% over last year for the Ottawa East area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $485,450 when compared to Ottawa East stats for November 2009 this is a 17% increase.

Stats November 2010 - Hunt Club

The neighborhood of  Hunt Club, Hunt Club Woods and Western Communities in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 4 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a 50% drop for the neighborhood of Hunt Club, Hunt Club Woods and the Western Communities when compared to November 2009. Average days on market have gone up 45% over last year for the Hunt Club area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $381,753 when compared to Ottawa East stats for November 2009 this is a 9% decrease.

Stats November 2010 - Westboro

The neighborhood of  Westboro & Hampton Park in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 2 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a sharp 250% drop for the neighborhood ofWestboro & Hampton Park when compared to November 2009 which saw a total of 7  sales. Average days on market have gone down up by 49% over last year for theWestboro & Hampton Park area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $677,500 when compared to Westboro & Hampton Parkstats for November 2009 this is a 18% increase.

Stats November 2010 - Carlington

The neighborhood of  Carlington in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 8 sales during the month of November 2010. This is the same amount the neighborhood of Carlington saw in November 2009. Average days on market have gone down dramatically to 225% over last year for the Carlington area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $273,737 when compared to Carlington stats for November 2009 this is a 7% increase.

Stats November 2010 Elmvale Acres

he neighborhood of Elmvale Acres in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 6 sales during the month of November 2010. This is an increase for the neighborhood of Elmvale Acres when compared to November 2009 which saw a total of 5 sales. Average days on market have gone down over last year for the Elmvale Acres area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $314,833 when compared to Elmvale Acres stats for November 2009 this is a 8% increase.

Stats November 2010 - Carson Meadows

The neighborhood of Carson Meadows located a few minutes from Downtown Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 2 sales during the month of November 2010. This is average of the neighborhood of Carson Meadows considering the time of year. Average days on market have gone down to 24 days. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $323,000 an increase of 17% over last year’s $267,500 average (November 2009). Note Carson Meadows is located nearby Carson Grove neighborhood.

Stats November 2010 - Alta Vista

The neighborhood of Alta Vista in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 4 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a 25% decrease for the neighborhood of Alta Vista when compared to November 2009. Average days on market have gone up down 73% over last year for the Alta Vista area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $496,900 when compared to Alta Vista stats for November 2009 this is a 1% increase.

Stats November 2010 - Blackburn Hamlet

The neighborhood of  Blackburn Hamlet located East of downtown Ottawa before Orleans, Ontario saw a total of 3 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a 67% decrease for the neighborhood of Blackburn Hamlet when compared to November 2009. Average days on market have gone up up 33% over last year for the Blackburn Hamlet and Blackburn Hamlet South area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $340,500 when compared to Blackburn Hamlet stats for November 2009 this is a 1% decrease.

Stats November 2010 - Ottawa East

The neighborhood of Ottawa East in Ottawa, Ontario saw a total of 2 sales during the month of November 2010. This is a 50% drop for the neighborhood of Ottawa East when compared to November 2009. Average days on market have gone down dramatically to 7% over last year for the Ottawa East area. Homes in the residential class have been selling at an average of $485,450 when compared to Ottawa East stats for November 209 this is a 17% increase.

Stittsville, Kanata Spacious 3 Bedroom Home for Sale - HomeLife Capital Realty

Beautiful Spacious home on approx.50 ft lot in quiet family area.Huge kitchen with lots of storage looking out to landscaped yard and oversized deck.Ideal for entertaining.Lrg m/f family rm w/gas fireplace feat.15ft vault ceiling.Approx. 2500 sqft. Feat.hw floors,study/lib, dinning.lrg bdrms 2 have ensuites w/walkin closets.Huge fin basement loaded in upgrades w/gas firepl.Gar.Feat. private workshop.Huge shed.No sidewalks.Its a must see

To book a showing call 613.800.2211!

Listing Price: $439,900 | 3 Bed | 4 Bath

Carson Grove Hi-Ranch Home for Sale - HomeLife Capital Realty inc in Ottawa

SOLD SOLD SOLD - To sell your Carson Grove Home call the St-Georges Davis Real Estate Team at 613-800-2211

Pride in Ownership top to bottom when entering this Carson Grove Hi-Ranch. Gleaming hardwood flrs Through living and dining meats open concept Kitchen with eat in and beautiful ceramic Flr, with Patio Drs to spacious Yrd. Lrg Bath with Soaker tub/sep shower and spacious Mbd w/wall to wall closet. Lower Level feat. lrg Bd,hbby rm and lrg. fam room. Enjoy Beautiful Landscaping interlock walk and patio. Features 1 Year Full Home Warranty!Call today to book your showing 613-800-2211

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY – NOV-7-2010 from 2-4 PM

Home in Stittsville on Elm Cr for Sale with HomeLife Capital Realty in Ottawa

SOLD SOLD SOLD! Call us today to sell or buy a home! 613-800-2211

PERFECT ONE FLOOR LIVING AT IT’S FINEST with pride of ownership makes this unique home a must see. Gorgeous, immaculate, spacious, cozy and bright on a premium 60×100 ft private landscaped lot in ever-popular Stittsville. In move-in condition, this smoke-free home is freshly painted in neutral colours. Large windows and delightful 3 season sunroom provide a well-lit living space allowing natural beauty to be appreciated from any angle! Call 613-800-2211 to book your showing today!

Hunt Club Real Estate Stats August 2010

The neighborhoods of Hunt Club saw a total of 9 sales during the month of August 2010 the same amount that we saw back in August 2009. Average days on market has gone up to 19 days compared to 13 last year. Average selling price is up to $373,577 an increase of 8%.
If you are looking to buy or sale a home or condo in Hunt Club trust the services of Roch St-Georges call 613-889-7732 today!