Can you guess what I am going to say?

Buy the house anyways (HERE’S WHY)⤵️

You can still reap massive financial benefits from owning a home, even with rising home prices.

Take my buyers recent home buying experience.

They had been in their home for several years, but their family had outgrown it.

They started looking for a bigger home in their ideal neighbourhood and casually searched for over a year.

They noticed homes were going quickly and honestly had sticker shock when it came to prices.

Sound familiar?

They debated whether or not they should move up and even considered doing a large scale addition on their current home to get it to work for them.

Ultimately they made the decision to buy another home that checked all of their boxes despite feeling like they were “buying high”.

They knew their home wasn’t working for them and they understood that with home prices continuing to rise they would benefit from the equity gained in their new home and were able to use the equity they already had in their current home to help offset the cost of moving up.

Their monthly payment increased (still within their budget), but they were ok with that knowing that they would finally be in a home that would work for their family.

They would’ve loved to sell high and buy low, but realized they couldn’t have their cake and eat it too and that timing the market just wasn’t possible.

If you’re in a similar position, you aren’t alone.

If you’re weighing your options and want to get an idea of what it would take for you to buy the home you want in today’s market and what you could sell your current house for, email me so we can discuss your specific situation.

If upgrading your home is right for you, great, but if not the right time that’s ok too…I’m here to help either way!

Downtown Burlington Home For Sale!! 

The charm of this centrally located Burlington Ontario home starts with a sprawling front yard, a brick facade, and a welcoming covered porch. Nestled in a private, treed lot, this home boasts abundant outdoor space and modern updates, creating a truly remarkable place to call home.

Step into an open-concept dream with a chic kitchen featuring quartz countertops, a massive wood block island, and stainless steel appliances. Hardwood floors and large windows fill the home with natural light. The great room, with its wood-burning fireplace, is the perfect spot for relaxation and gatherings.

Discover three charming bedrooms down the hall, each with its unique charm, and a stunning main bathroom with double sinks. 

 The king-sized primary bedroom comes complete with a walk-in closet and an ensuite featuring a glass shower.

 Unlock the potential of the "bonus room" above the garage – a space adorned with pot lights, storage, and a dreamy gas fireplace. This flexible area allows for endless possibilities like an office, den, gym, library, or even a 5th bedroom!

The newly carpeted lower level, featuring custom built-ins and a fireplace, is your perfect retreat for movie nights or work sessions. A comfortable bedroom and a modern 3-piece bathroom make it an ideal guest space or teenage retreat. Plus, there's a convenient laundry area for added practicality.

Escape to your private oasis in the backyard – a park-like setting with a saltwater in-ground pool, a seating area with a pergola, and a grassy space for kids and pets, all surrounded by towering trees. It's the ultimate in privacy, creating a serene retreat for relaxation or lively summer BBQs!

Considering multigenerational housing? You're joining a growing trend. 

Recently, 14% of homebuyers were looking for homes that could house multiple generations. This choice isn't just a matter of preference and desire for family togetherness; it's driven by practical needs and shifting family dynamics. 

Here’s a peek into why both first-time and repeat buyers are choosing these homes:

1) Financial advantages for first-time buyers.
A significant 28% of first-time buyers opt for multigenerational homes to afford larger properties, pooling multiple incomes to make this viable.

2) Space for extended family & adult children.
About 23% of first-time buyers need space for adult relatives or children over 18 who haven't moved out. Additionally, 12% are accommodating 'boomerang' children who return home after living independently.

3) Caring for aging parents.
Among repeat buyers, 30% are looking for homes that facilitate caring for elderly parents. This reflects what I believe is a growing sense of obligation toward elder care in family settings.

These figures highlight a significant shift towards homes that support extended family living under one roof. If you're considering this type of home for your unique family needs, I'm here to guide you through the options and find the perfect fit. 

Let’s connect and start exploring your options in today’s real estate landscape!

Source: All in the Family: Multi-Generational Home Buying

Experts: Multigenerational Housing Needs More Support November 15, 2023

Revealing today what sellers say *actually* helped them sell their homes for top dollar.

1) A slight under-market list price. 

It feels counterintuitive, but sellers willing to list their homes just under market value tell me they’ve been handsomely rewarded. Competitively priced homes typically ignite bidding wars, resulting in a selling price far exceeding the initial listing.

2) Next-level cleanliness.

My crazy successful sellers typically choose to invest in professional cleaning services. Imagine walking into a home where the scents are fresh, surfaces gleam, and carpets feel like they've never been stepped on. A few hundred bucks can transform your home into a canvas where buyers can paint their future lives.

3) Multiple rounds of decluttering. 

We're not talking about tidying up; we're talking about a ruthless purge. If you've lived in your home for years, what seems normal to you might look like clutter to potential buyers. Sometimes, it takes a few rounds to strip back to the essentials, ensuring your home is show-ready and inviting.

Need a hand or more insights? I'm just a message away. Let's sell your home for maximum profit!

Your home has been there for you throughout the year, and now it's time to show it some love before the new year begins. Here's a step-by-step guide tailored for both buyers and sellers in Burlington, Ontario, ensuring your space is not only organized but also appealing to potential buyers.

1. Pre-Holiday Toy Cleanout: Before the festive season and the influx of gifts, go through your children's old toys that no longer see playtime. Consider donating them to a local thrift store or charity. This not only declutters your home but also gives back to the community.

2. Daily Declutter Challenge: Take on the task of decluttering one drawer, closet, or cabinet every day. Set a timer for 15 minutes and witness the transformation. Dispose of or donate items like old magazines, manuals, electronics, unused clothes, and expired medications. This incremental approach makes the process manageable for both buyers and sellers on the move.

3. Kitchen Clean-Up: Streamline your kitchen by eliminating dishes and utensils you rarely use. Follow the rule of doubling the number of sets based on your household size. Additionally, do a thorough check of your fridge and pantry, bidding farewell to forgotten items. This step not only improves functionality but also enhances the appeal of your home for potential buyers.

4. Home Decor Downsizing: Dust off and declutter unused home decor items. If they've been sitting around collecting dust, consider passing them on or selling them online. This not only refreshes your living space but also creates a more attractive environment for potential buyers.

5. Storage Area Organization: Address all storage areas, from the basement to the attic. Employ labels and bins to keep items organized and easily accessible. This step is crucial for sellers looking to present a well-organized home to potential buyers.

If you find the decluttering process overwhelming, I collaborate with excellent home organizers who can provide the support you need. Feel free to reach out with your home organization needs. Moreover, if you have any real estate questions or need advice, I'm here to assist you in navigating the Burlington housing market. Let's start 2024 with a fresh and organized home!

Contemplating a 'For Sale' sign among your December decorations?

Here are a few thoughts to help you minimize stress, stay in the festive spirit, and secure a quick sale: 

The Do’s

1) Embrace the season: Decorate tastefully to showcase your home's holiday charm and help buyers envision their own future celebrations in your space.

2) Cozy up: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere with soft lighting, comfy throws, and delightful scents (try Stovetop Christmas Potpourri — it’s a game-changer).

3) Stay flex: December is a hectic time for everyone. Be accommodating with showing schedules to make the process smoother for all parties involved.

The Don'ts

1) Overdo decor: Less is more when it comes to holiday decorations. Avoid overwhelm and let your home's layout, lighting, and features shine.

2) Forget basic upkeep: Amidst the holiday hustle, remember essential home upkeep. A well-maintained home makes a first — and lasting — impression on buyers.

3) Over-personalize: Clear out personal items and excess clutter to help buyers visualize living within your four walls.

Remember, December buyers are serious buyers, so if you’re ready to make the most of this month’s real estate market, message me, and let's chat about your listing today.