Hey there, first-time homebuyer, can we have a heart-to-heart? 

You see, you’re buying your first home, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m showing up as your biggest fan. 

But my guess is you’re hearing lots of chatter about this not being the ideal time to buy. Maybe even from people you love. 

Here’s the thing: Maybe conditions aren’t ideal, but if you know in your heart you’re ready to buy, then NOW is THE time. 

So long as you can take that spirit into this process, you’re going to be just fine. And I’ll be with you every step of the way. To leave nothing unsaid, here are a few other mind shifts I hope you, and all first-time buyers, will embrace:

1. This is your first home. Not your forever home. It’s okay if it doesn’t have everything on your wish list. That will come with time. 
2. You can’t control the market or interest rates. You know the home you could have afforded two years ago isn’t the home you can afford today. But that’s okay. You will find the home that’s right for you right now.
3. Staying within your budget is important. Don’t get caught up in the emotional side of buying or begin to equate your value as a person with the home you purchase. 

Now that your mind and heart are ready, it’s time to get moving. Send me a DM, and let’s take the next step. 

Buying and selling at the same time. It’s not for the faint of heart, but my clients do it all the time. And in the end, they’re all smiles! So today, I’m sharing my top tips for maintaining your sanity if you’re staring down both sides of a real estate transaction.  

1. Involve an agent in the early stages of buying and selling.

2. Consider options for temporary housing. While the stars may align and you may not need them, a plan for where you’ll go in between selling and buying will smooth the rough edges of the process. 

3. Get “paperwork ready” to buy and “house ready” to sell. Before you’re up to your eyeballs in showings on either side, get pre-approved and make any necessary repairs to your home. You don’t want to be scrambling on either.

4. Say yes to seeing “just listed” homes. If your search has stalled, be willing to drop everything when your agent calls with a new listing. The sooner you can put eyes on a home, the sooner you’ll be out of limbo.

5. Trade dollars for a quick closing. It may be worth it so you can step into your forever home as soon as your home closes.   

Selling and buying is a big deal, but that’s why I’m here. 

It’s getting snowy out there and that makes it the perfect time to get cozy and watch a movie snuggled up by the fire. But don’t forget safety first! 

Here are a few tips for maintaining a safe and clean fireplace in your home:

1. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year by a professional chimney sweep. This will help prevent creosote buildup and other hazards that can lead to chimney fires.
2. Ensure you are using only dry, seasoned wood in your fireplace. Green or wet wood can produce more creosote and can also make it harder to get your fire started and to keep it going.
3. Keep the area around your fireplace and chimney clear of debris and combustible materials. This includes newspapers, kindling, and firewood….and home decor!
4. Install a chimney cap to keep out rain, snow, and animals. This can prevent water damage and blockages in the chimney. 
5. Make sure you always use a fireplace screen to keep embers and sparks from flying out of the fireplace.
6. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home and check it regularly. This is important for so many reasons! 
7. Never ever, ever leave a fire unattended and make sure it is completely out before going to bed or leaving your home.
8. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use. This will prevent drafts, which can affect the efficiency of the fireplace and also the energy consumption.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your fireplace safely and maintain it in good condition.

Do you have a wood burning fireplace? or do you prefer gas? 

Purchasing a home in the country is a bit different than buying in the city. When buying a rural home in North Burlington such has Kilbride or areas like Carlisle here are several things you may want to consider:

1. Location: Make sure the property is located in an area that you are comfortable with, and that it is accessible to the amenities and services you need.
2. Zoning regulations: Make sure the property is zoned for the intended use, whether it's for residential, agricultural, or commercial use.
3. Property taxes: Be sure to factor in property taxes when budgeting for the home.
4. Services and utilities: Make sure the property has access to the services and utilities you need, such as electricity, water, and internet - especially if you are planning to work from home! 
5. Environmental hazards: Check for potential hazards such as flooding, erosion, or wildlife that could affect the property and your intended use. 
6. Building codes: Be sure to understand and comply with building codes and regulations for any future construction of any buildings or structures on the property. Some homes may fall under conservation authority and would have further limitations and restrictions. 
7. Legal and title issues: Hire a lawyer to review the title and ensure that there are no outstanding legal issues with the property. This is also good practice with any home you are purchasing. 
8. Financing: Be aware that rural properties may be harder to finance than urban properties, so it may be more difficult to get a mortgage, but there are some lenders that specialize in rural properties.
9. Get a property inspection: It's always a good idea to have a professional inspect the property before you buy it, to ensure that there are no hidden issues. This should also include a septic inspection if necessary. 
10. Research the area and the neighbourhood:  including schools, shopping, and recreation, to make sure the location is right for you. You know what they say, Location, location, location! 
11. research your water source. Most rural homes are not on municipal water. Other means of obtaining water include a dug or drilled well and a cistern. In post cases you and your lender will want a water potability test completed. 

Country living has many benefits and lots to offer! Just make sure you do your due diligence first! 

Reasons to List Your Home with Me in 2023

#1 I   real estate.

I admit it: I heart real estate. Even when I’m “off the clock,” I’m thinking, planning, and dreaming all things real estate! And that’s great news for clients. They get the benefit of my constant attention and drive to sell, sell, sell! When your home is mine, I won’t stop until it’s sold and you’re 100% satisfied. 

#2: I love this town. 

This town, swoon. I love it. And when you love something, it’s contagious - you can’t help but talk about it! Buyers checking out your home will hear from me, either directly or via their agent, why this town, your neighbourhood, and your house is the perfect place for them to start the next chapter in their life.

#3: I’ve got a few seller tricks up my sleeve.

You learn as you go. And after years in real estate,  I’ve got a few seller hacks I’ve seen catapult clients’ homes to the top of buyers’ lists over and over again.

Call me today so we can chat about listing your home in 2023. I’d love to hear what you’re thinking and see if I can help — no strings attached!

Burlington offers a variety  of winter activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the best winter activities in the area include:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Although we don’t have any ski hills the area surrounding Burlington is home to several ski hills, including the popular Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Centre. Glen Eden offers a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
2. Ice Skating: Burlington has several ice rinks that are open to the public during the winter months, including Central Park and the very popular outdoor skating rink at Spencer Smith Park. The city also has indoor skating rinks, that offer a warm place to skate.
3. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: The Royal Botanical Gardens and other parks around Burlington offer groomed trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature during the winter months.
4. Winter drive: For a relaxing winter adventure once the roads are cleared you can take a drive through the beautiful countryside around Burlington and look at the freshly fallen snow on the trees.
5. Winter Festivals and Events: Burlington hosts a variety of winter festivals and events throughout the season, including the Burlington Santa Claus Parade, and the Winter Lights Festival.
6. Shopping and Dining: Burlington is home to a wide range of shops and restaurants, so visitors can take a break from the cold and enjoy some indoor activities.
7. Bundle up and put on your winter boots and enjoy a walk through a winter wonderland in one of Burlingtons beautiful parks or trails such as Lasalle, kerns cliff park and Lowville. 
8. Sledding! how could we forget about one of the best winter activities for all ages. Each neighbourhood has big and small hills for you to enjoy.

Overall, there are plenty of things to do in Burlington during the winter, from skiing and skating to festivals and events, visitors can enjoy the winter season in this city.

What is your favourite winter activity to do in Burlington? 

In Ontario, real estate agents are typically paid by commission. This means that they earn a % of the sale price of a property as their fee for their services. The commission rate is  negotiated between the seller and the real estate agent/brokerage at the time of listing the property.

There is no “standard” rate charged. The commission rate can vary depending on factors such as the location of the property, the price of the property, and the complexity of the sale. Not to mention each agent can charge their own rate and this may also be relate to the amount of services provided. 

Commissions are typically split between the listing agent and the selling agent. Historically it was evenly split however we now see a variety of combinations. Technically , the commission is split between the two agents' brokerages, with each brokerage receiving a portion of the commission and then disbursing the commission owed to the sales agents. 

It's worth noting that in some cases, buyers may also be charged a commission by their agent, but this practice is less common. In addition, some home sellers opt to use a flat-fee or a limited service real estate agent, which will charge a flat fee rather than a commission.

Do you have more questions about how real estate agents get paid? Reach out to me today! 

Have you been thinking of moving to Burlington Ontario? Here are just a few reasons that make Burlington a great place to call home.

1. Proximity to nature: Burlington is located on the shore of Lake Ontario and is surrounded by beautiful parks and conservation areas. The city is home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, which is the largest botanical garden in Canada and offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails.
2. Strong economy: Burlington has a strong and diverse economy that is anchored by the manufacturing and service sectors. The city is home to several large companies and is also a hub for small businesses and startups.
3. Quality of life: Burlington is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Canada. The city has a low crime rate, excellent healthcare and education, and a high standard of living.
4. Cultural diversity: Burlington is a diverse and inclusive community that welcomes people from all over the world. The city is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.
5. Access to major cities: Burlington is located just a short drive from Toronto, which is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Canada. The city is also located close to the US border, making it easy to travel to major American cities like New York and Buffalo.

Overall, Burlington is a great place to live and offers a high quality of life, great access to nature and culture, and a strong economy. Whether you're looking to raise a family, start a business, or just enjoy a great lifestyle, Burlington has something to offer.