feb. 15, 2011 issue 20

www.GolfiTeam.com

Rob GolfiSales

Representative

Sharon StaffordSales

Representative

Heather ReidSales

Representative

Hans MarcelissenSales

Representative

Wendy Murray-Nicholson*Sales

Representative

Ashley SidlerSales

Representative

Dena ZlatarOffice

Manager

Rosemary FournierListing

Co-ordinator

P R E S E N T E D B Y T H E G O L F I T E A M

February 15, 2011 - Vol 24b

FIND US ON:

Rob GolfiSales Representative

NEW LISTINGStoney Creek Mountain $674,900

Bungalow on 2 acres

MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch February 15, 2011

www.GolfiTeam.com

Since the inception ofhis career in 1997,Rob Golfi has

recognized that understandinghis clients’ needs is essential toproviding excellent service.

As business grew, Robassembled the Golfi Team in aneffort to maintain the samelevel of professionalism clientshave come to expect. Shortlythereafter in 2003, the teamreceived the prestigious honourof being among the top 100Real Estate Teams forRE/MAX Canada, and thisstatus continues to date.

Rob’s experience andaggressive negotiating skillshave earned him every majorhonour awarded by RE/MAX,including President’s Club,100% Club, Platinum Club,Chairman’s Club, Hall of Famein 2003, the Lifetime Achieve -ment Award in 2006, hisSRES® designation in 2009 andthe Diamond Club Award in2010. Having worked with

many of the industry’sprofessionals over the years, hehas the necessary edge to bestnegotiate the sale of your home.

Any agent can list yourhouse, but Rob’s knowledge,extensive marketingbackground and dedicationgives clients peace of mindwhen dealing with the singlemost important investment intheir lives. With years ofcombined experience, the GolfiTeam can provide your homewith a level of exposure thatmost agents cannot. Utilizing ateam approach also means thatthey will likely find a purchaserto buy your home sooner, ratherthan waiting for other agents toapproach you with potentialbuyers.

Ranked in the top 5 of nearly2,000 sales agents in theHamilton-Burlington and Niagaraareas, listing with Rob and theGolfi Team is the right choicewhen choosing someone torepresent your best interest. -Å

About Rob Golfi

by: Rob Golfi

The Solution

Fill in the grid above, so that each row of

9 squares, each column of nine and each

section of nine (three squares by three)

contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any

order. There is only one solution for the

puzzle and the numbers shown can NOT

be changed.

8 2 5 4 97

7

1 5 3 8

3 2 6

4 1 2

5 38 4

9

6 9 5 4 7 1

SUDOKUSUDOKU

382549 617

467892 153

159374 286

931427 568

526781 349

874615 932

715963 824

248136 79

693258 471

5

“With mortgage rates an an all-time low, why did the little pig have to settle

for a house made of straw?”

Maximum ExposureSells Your HomeCall the Golfi Team to get

your Home Sold

905-945-0188www.golfiteam.comThe GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada.

Interestingly enough, eventhough we had our bestDecember in more years

than we can remember the averagesale price across Hamilton stayedstagnant at $203,000 mark.

In January, Grimsby saleswere down from $324,000 to$295,000 and Lincoln’s alsodecreased due to lower sales vol-umes, from $267,000 to $236,000.

Stoney Creek sales were alsodown, from $309,000 to $272,000due to a shortage of homes cur-rently on the market.

The spring market though hasstarted off quite well. Anythingpriced right and prepared right is

selling very quickly, which bodeswell for the move-up-buyer who ispoised to make the jump they’vebeen holding off, due to the jobsecurity fears over the last coupleof years.

Approaching the market cau-tiously is always a smart move,but we are not seeing any signsthat this rebound, which started inthe last quarter of 2009, is not car-rying forth in 2011.

Household debt has been ris-ing dramatically in recent yearswhich is concerning if interestrates rise, even marginally. But,for those in good financial shape,

BUY - BUY - BUY! -Å

Spring Market Off to a Good Start for Home Buyers

MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM Page 2

Call Today 905-945-0188

Rob Golfi*

Grimsby, Lincoln & West Lincoln Area

February 15, 2011 The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

GrImSBy $299,900

63 Griffith DriveCompleted top to bottom with professionallyfinished basement. Spacious eat-in kitchen,dinette, cozy front porch with Escarpmentviews, patterned concrete drive, patio, privatetreed yard. Very desirable neighbourhood. Quickaccess to QEW!

GrImSBy $299,900

17 Colonial CrescentAttractive 4 level back split in quiet escarpmentsurvey. Porcelain tiles, oak eat-in kitchen,vaulted ceilings in LR/DR, main flr laundry, gasfireplace in family room, newer furnace,humidifier & central air, along with newwindows, doors, & shingles.

GrImSBy $1,490,000

143 Lake StreetFabulous waterfront property! Custom built3000 sq ft home with Lake views every room.Maple hardwood floors, granite counters, mastersuite with access to back deck, ensuite and walk-in shower. Handicap adaptable!

GrImSBy $179,900

13 Sacks AvenueCute semi in a great neighbourhood close toparks & schools. Nice corner lot! 3 bdrms, twofull baths, finished rec-rm w/gas fireplace, &open concept on main flr. Fantastic opportunityfor any buyer to aquire in Grimsby.

BeamSvILLe $239,900

5120 St. George's DriveImmaculate freehold townhome, open conceptw/vaulted ceilings, 2 skylights & den/office,great rm w/gas FP. Fin rec rm, Cal shutters,main flr laund & ceramics. Upgrades bamboohrdwd in LR, deck, shed, countertop, sink &faucet.

WeSt LInCoLn $249,900

1786 Victoria AvenueCountry living at its best sitting on over an acreof private treed lot in fantastic location. Featurescathedral ceilings, oversized family room withfireplace, country style kitchen with plenty ofcupboards, fully finished basement.


9407 Silver StreetAmazing updated home on 100 x 200ft lot, builtin 1953, has an open concept LR/DR w/hrdwdflrs, huge master suite, New high eff gasfurnance/CA, updated main bath, entry doors, &water conditioner. Bonus rm over the garage.

St. CatHarIneS $179,900

198 Dorothy StreetBeautifully maintained freehold townhousew/maintenance free exterior brick & siding,features 3 BRs w/ensuite, ceramic tiles in foyer& dining room, new shingles in ‘09, & close toshopping & busses. Home has pride ofownership!

GrImSBy $249,900

65 Hemlock WayGorgeous Losani built town home featuresbeautiful designer maple kitchen with breakfastbar, and showcase fireplace in living room.Master bedroom has luxury ensuite and walk-incloset. 3 bedrooms and oak staircase. Close toparks, schools and QEW access.

The Golfi Team has Maximum InternetExposure to Get Your Home SOLD!

Call today! 905-945-0188

SOLDSOLD

ANOTHERANOTHER

ONEONE


7574 Highway #202+1 bedroom fully reno’d & with modern kitchen,cherry wood cabinets, ceramic, cathedral ceilings,adjoined fam room. Thick carpeting in all principalrms & main bath w/whirlpool tub. Dbl side drv, finbsmt (’06) incl. rec rm, kitchen, bedrm & laundry,25 yr roof (’04), furnace (’03).

BeamSvILLe $459,900

4276 Maple Grove RoadRaised ranch on 11 acres, built in 1993, finishedin-law apartment with walk out, spaciouskitchen with plenty of counter space, shinglesone yr, furnace 3 yrs, well maintained home inthe heart of wine country.

BeamSvILLe $228,900

5141 Conner Street1386 sq.ft. Features include great sizedbedrooms with 3 pc ensuite and walk in closetoff of master. Kitchen overlooking spaciousfamily room, attached to neighbouring unit atthe garage.

BeamSvILLe $259,900

4498 Ontario StreetIdeal for Home Business. Impressive 4bedroom, 4 level back split sitting on 60' x 150'lot. Features hardwood floors, updatedwindows, shingles ('06), furnace ('03), garagedoor & opener ('08), 2 fireplaces, walkout fromlower level, 20' x 22' garage.

GrImSBy $289,900

33 Debora DriveSpacious raised ranch in impeccable condition3+1 Bedrms, 2 baths, on large 61 x 125 ft lotacross from private park, updates include newwindows, new furnace & central air, finishedbright basement, walk to downtown, 1 min toQEW

SmItHvILLe $279,900

16 Lindan StreetPrestigious 2 storey built in ‘06 on fantastic sizelot, features spacious kit w/granite counters &breakfast bar, beautiful hardwood throughout, asun-filled living room, large bedrooms, ensuiteprivilege off master, main floor family room,walk out from bsmt to fenced yard.

NeW HOMeWaTerFrONT

Scan this code to view more info on our listings!

Go to www.4qr.ca on your mobile phone to download your free scanner.

Text "GOLFI" to 123411 to view our listings on your mobile phone.

11 acreS

FontHILL $634,900

23 Timbercreek CrescentStunning 4 bdrm, 3300 sqft Executive onexclusive street. Built 4 yrs ago & featureshardwood and porcelain floors, granitecountertops, 60 interior/11 exterior potlights, mainflr den can also be a formal living room. In-lawsuite w/sep entry plus endless list of upgrades!

SOLDSOLD

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Stoney Creek $674,900

1217 Green Mountain Rd. E.Custom built open main flr 2300sqft. 3 bdrmbungalow sitting on 2 acres of gardens, featuresgorgeous designer kit w/breakfast bar & granitecounters, vaulted ceilings in great rmw/showcase fireplace, beautiful Brazilian cherryhrdwd flrs, spa inspired ensuite,

If youwant it

SOLDCall Rob Golfi905-575-7700

or visit

www.RobGolfi.com


Call Today 905-945-0188


Rob Golfi*

Commercial

BeamSvILLe $499,900

5532 King StreetZoned light industrial, consists of building plus4 Bedroom century home sitting on approx 3acres located on Regional Rd 81 on wine route,with good traffic. Property has 6000 sq.ft steelframe building on concrete slab with 2washrooms, 220 volts.

BeamSvILLe $1,199,900

4485 King StreetOver 700 ft of frontage on Niagara's busiestwine route. 26.6 Prestigious acres on the lowerbench with over a 20ft fall from front to back ofproperty. Property consists of a large barn with 2cold storages, heated workshop and parkingarea. 3 residential detached homes on property.

BeamSvILLe $249,900

4993 King StreetDowntown core storefront with large window,front and back entrances can suit 2 businesses or1 large one. Rear parking and municipal lot.New furnace, 2pc bath. 1800 sq ft of businessspace with GC zoning, plus 2 bedroomapartment on upper level.


19 King StreetLocation, Location this 2.5 Storey commercialbuilding w/high traffic & visual exposure zonedCA-1 permits 29 uses, ideal for doctors, lawyers,accountants, mortgage, real estate office.Approx 1,335 sq.ft. on main flr, plus 1,500 sq.ftapartment on 2nd & 3rd flr, plenty of parking.

The Golfi Team has Maximum Internet Exposure to Get Your Home SOLD!

Call today! 905-945-0188

Scan this code to view more info on our listings!

Go to www.4qr.ca on your mobile phone to download your free scanner.

Text "GOLFI" to 123411 to view our listings on your mobile phone.

SOLDSOLD

ANOTHERANOTHER

ONEONE

OTTAWA, February 8, 2011— The seasonally adjusted annualrate1 of housing starts was 170,400units in January, according toCanada Mortgage and HousingCorporation (CMHC). This is upfrom 169,000 units in December2010. According to final figures,actual housing starts for 2010totalled 189,930 units, with activi-ty moderating towards demo-graphic fundamentals by the finalquarter of 2010.

“Housing starts moved slight-ly higher in January because of anincrease in rural starts,” said BobDugan, Chief Economist atCMHC’s Market Analysis Centre.“Single-detached and multiplestarts showed a moderate decline.”

The seasonally adjusted annu-al rate of urban starts decreased by1.7 per cent to 146,900 units inJanuary. Urban multiple startsmoderated by 1.5 per cent inJanuary to 82,900 units, while sin-

gle urban starts moved lower by2.0 per cent to 64,000 units.

January’s seasonally adjustedannual rate of urban startsdecreased by 19.0 per cent in thePrairie Region, by 7.9 per cent inBritish Columbia, and by 1.0 percent in Québec. Urban startsincreased by 13.3 per cent inAtlantic Canada and by 10.3 percent in Ontario.

Rural starts2 were estimated ata seasonally adjusted annual rateof 23,500 units in January.

As Canada's national housingagency, CMHC draws on 65 yearsof experience to help Canadiansaccess a variety of high quality,environmentally sustainable andaffordable homes. CMHC alsoprovides reliable, impartial andup-to-date housing market reports,analysis and knowledge to supportand assist consumers and thehousing industry in making

informed decisions. -Å

Th e R E A LT O R S ®

A s s o c i a t i o n o fHamilton-Burlington

(RAHB) reported a total of 613units sold in the association’sjurisdiction* in the month ofJanuary, according to MultipleListing Service® (MLS®)statistics released today. Thisrepresents a seven per centdecrease in sales from the samemonth last year.

“January is typically a slowmonth for sales, but this past Januarywas slower than normal” said AnnForbes Arndt, RAHB President.

The number of residentialproperties sold during Januarytotaled 585, and included 458freehold properties and 127condominiums. Commercialsales for January, includingindustrial, farm, vacant land andbusiness, totaled 28 units.

The average sale price offreehold residential properties inthe association’s jurisdiction inthe month of January was$317,011, an increase of 9.4 percent over January, 2010. Theaverage sale price reflects thedollar volume of freehold

residential sales divided by thenumber of total freeholdresidential units sold.

In the condominium market,the average unit price was$229,383, a decrease of 2.2 percent from the same month lastyear.

“I said earlier this year thatthe real estate market shouldstabilize through 2011 andperform much as it did in 2010.That said, the real estate marketis still dependent on othereconomic factors, so we arecautious in our optimism that we

are headed toward a stable,balanced market,” added Arndt.

Figures quoted are for salesand average sale prices of unitslocated in the jurisdiction* of theREALTORS® Association ofHamilton-Burlington andprocessed through RAHB’sMultiple Listing Service®

(MLS®). Unit sales reflect “all

property types” includingresidential, condominium, com -mercial property, farm, vacantland and business, unlessotherwise specified. -Å

January 2011 Housing Starts

Slow Start to New Year

Free Down PaymentWhat is a Free Down PaymentMortgage Program?

First time homebuyers and thosewho do not have sufficient down pay-ment for their home purchase are eligi-ble for a free down payment mortgageprogram. Fixed rate closed terms mort-gage with a 5 year term.

How do I benefit from this mort-gage program?

Don't wait to save up your 5%down payment before purchasing ahome. You can purchase now without adown payment.

How does this mortgage programwork?

The lending institution provides adown payment equal to 5% of theproperty lending value. They willadvance these funds directly to thesolicitor on the closing date.

What are the limitations?A minmum beacon score (credit

score) of 650 is required. This programapplies only to owner occupied singlefamily or duplex units.

Are there any extra fees?The mortgage default insur-

ance premium is 2.90% of themortgage amount instead of thestandard 2.75% with 5% downpayment from your own resources.Client pays the full posted interestrate for the 5 year term rather thanthe discounted rate.

For more information on theFree Down Payment MortgageProgram and how it could help youbuy your home sooner, please contact

the Golfi Team at 905-575-7700. -


Call Today 905-575-7700

Rob Golfi*

Hamilton & Stoney Creek

Stoney Creek mtn $309,900

36 Hillcroft DriveCharming 8 yr old, all brick, 5 level backsplit.This home is finished top to bottom & featureskitchen overlooking family room w/showcasefireplace, leading to backyard concrete patio &fence yard, finished basement w/rec-room, & 2full baths.

moUnt Hope $252,000

59 Critzia Drive, Unit 312Condo in Twenty Place. Features 2 bedrooms,hardwood, ceramics, Califormia Shutters, 2walkouts to outdoor covered balcony. Don’tmiss out! Access to Clubhouse with pool,whirlpool, gym, tennis courts, undergroundparking & large storage locker.

WeSt HamILton $299,900

82 Bowman StreetGreat investment -- walk to McMaster, updatesinclude new furnace (07), new shingles (02),hardwood floors, all new appliances, newdriveway, carpet, ceramic floors in kitchen.rental income $1750/month, tenants payutilities!

WInona $359,900

328 Winona RoadEasy access to the QEW, shopping,and schools.Large kitchen with island & granite counters.Vaulted ceilings, pot lighting, california shutters.Inside garage entry with main floor laundry.Fully fenced back yard. Large master, his/herclosets & ensuite with corner soaker tub.


503 Highway #8, Unit 19Located in secluded complex w/plenty of visitorparking. Sunken LR w/gas FP, gorgeoushardwood flrs. Bright fully finished basement.Attached only at garage, close to all amenities &easy hwy access.

HamILton eaSt $164,900

119 Fairfield Avenue3+1 bdrm home w/a side drive, garage, &screened in back porch, includes hrdwd flrs,bright white kit, freshly painted, LR & a great flrplan. Dry basement, Weeping tiles installed 9 yrsago. Close to all amenities. Come see!


19 Scotia AvenueRenovated in Rosedale! New kitchen w/crownmouldng, unique backsplash, breakfast bar &blt-in wine rack. New hardwd & furnace, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 200 amp, in-lawpotential, concrete drive, huge lot! Near parks,schools, golf course & escarpment stairs.


43 Blair AvenueLarge lot, fully fenced yard & parking for 5!Shingles 2009, fence 2007, Vinyl windows,hrdwd flrs, updated kitchen, renovated bath,finished rec room. Beautiful bay window offdining room. All appliances included. Quiet eastend location near the Red Hill Pkwy.

BInBrook $379,900

218 Tanglewood DriveQuality built 2400 sq ft. Located in JacksonHeights, in the heart of Binbrook, this 4 bdrm, 2 storey home has many upgrades. Hardwdfloors in family room & dining room, solidmaple staircase. Upgraded ceramics, kitchen &backsplash, cove mouldings, painted indecorator colours, upgraded light fixtures.

eaSt HamILton $284,900

85 Bow Valley DriveImmaculate 3 bedroom with fully finishedbasement. Spacious living room and diningroom. Eat-in kitchen has been updated andboasts ample counter space and cupboards.Updated vinyl windows, concrete drive andpatio in fenced yard.

eaSt HamILton $169,900

37 Strathearne Ave.Charming one floor bungalow, beautifulgleaming hardwood floors, finished basementwith 3 pc bath, concrete drive and patio,oversized detached garage, fridge, stove, washer& dryer included, close to bus route andshopping.



24 Puritan Court2 Storey all brick home with in-law set up inbasement with separate entrance, hardwood inliving/dining rooms & family room, beautifuloak kitchen cabinets, large fenced yard withpatterned concrete patio, mostly vinyl windows,shingles are 5 yrs new.


46 Second Road WestOh my gosh, best value for this great 5 bedroom,5 level back split, sitting 100 x 152 ft lot.Everything is done -- all you have to do is movein. Features gorgeous hardwood floors, beautifulFlorida room, showcase fireplace, perfect forgrowing family, fantastic location close to allamenities.

HamILton moUntaIn $210,000

98 David Ave.Incredible value in this 3+2 bedroom, brickbungalow, featuring a finished rec-room,hardwood under Berber carpet, mostly vinylwindows, furnace & central air updated 2002,long concrete drive, close to busses andshopping.

BInBrook $1,129,900

2228 Guyatt RoadTrillium award, country estate home minutes fromthe city. 3 fireplaces, 4+1 bedrooms, 4.5 baths,vinyl windows, custom drapery & californiashutters, wrap-around porch. Finished basementwith potential in-law suite and refrigerated winecellar. Steel shingles w/50-year warranty.


2 Renis Court3+1 bdrm all brick bungalow will take you bysurprise. Upgrades include designer maple kit,hrdwd flrs, porcelain tile, crown moulding, hotelstyle bathroom, California ceilings, updated vinylwindows, shingles ‘06 & more.


46 Adeline AvenueFirst time buyers! Good location close to highways,schools & park. Great starter home w/2 bdrms,living room w/gas fireplace, updated kitchen &bathroom. Renovations done to make bathroom &master bdrm larger. Parking for 3 cars & a greatbackyard!

ONe acre

SOLDSOLD

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17 Gumwood Place4+1 BR home on a mature Executive Crt. Closeto amenities. Hrdwd flrs, master BR w/ensuite &walk-in closet. Main flr ldry, eat-in kit, DR, LR,family rm w/gas FP. Finished basementw/games rm, bdrm, 3pc bth, & rec rm w/wet bar.


1217 Green Mountain Rd. E.Custom built open main flr 2300sqft. 3 bdrmbungalow sitting on 2 acres of gardens, featuresgorgeous designer kit w/breakfast bar & granitecounters, vaulted ceilings in great rmw/showcase fireplace, beautiful Brazilian cherryhrdwd flrs, spa inspired ensuite,


2-618 Barton StreetImmaculate home shows like a dream! Beautifuldecor, hrdwd & ceramics throughout, bright kitw/ceramic backsplash, in-law suite down stairsw/full bath & mini kit, master suite w/walk incloset & ensuite, updated windows & shingles.


Call Today 905-575-7700


Rob Golfi, Sales Representative

Home evaluationNo Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi today!

905-945-0188 / 905-575-7700

Framing yourBasement Wallsby: Joe Keca

Home Improvement Group

First, if you are planning to havea warm and comfortable basement,perimeter basement walls should beframed using 2”x4” construction, justlike the interior walls. By using 2”x4”studs on the perimeter basementwalls insulation can be installed toensure a warmer room. If warmth isnot a priority, and the installation ofdrywall is still required on theperimeter basement walls, then fur-ring strips can be attached to theperimeter walls instead. Furring stripsusually consist of 2”x2”s that areglued and nailed to the concrete base-ment walls.

Internal Wall FramingThe internal walls can be built on

the ground and then simply raised inplace, however due to inevitable vari-ations in basement floor heights thewalls should be built slightly shorterand then shimmed into place. If this isnot done, you may have some diffi-culty raising the wall as it may getwedged between the floor of thebasement and the ceiling/floor joists.Also, if the home is built on clay soilthe basement floor may move slightlyup and down based on the water con-tent in the ground. If the home is builton clay soil, then you should use L-Shaped steel framing clips to attachto the walls and the first-floor floorjoists. These clips will enable thewalls to breath (move up and down),but give the support necessary toensure the wall remains vertical.

When building basement wallsthere are typically many obstructions(pipes, duct work) that you need tobuild around. Thus, it is sometimeseasier to stick build walls aroundthese types of obstructions.

Stick Build FramingTo stick build walls, first nail a

top plate perpendicular to the floorjoists. Next, secure a bottom plate tothe concrete floor using concretenails and an adhesive such as LiquidNails. Make sure you use pressuretreated lumber on the bottom plate asit is in contact with the concrete andwill wick moisture over time. The topand bottom plates should be parallelto each other. Use a plumb line toensure they are parallel. Finally

install 2’x4” studs every 16” along

the plates. Make sure you measure for

each stud prior to cutting, as the floor

to ceiling distances will vary.

Boxing in Ductwork

Soffits may need to be built if

ductwork needs to be boxed in or if

planning to install interior lighting.

Soffits are not structural and thus can

be framed using 2”x2”s. Similar to

any wall framing, use two parallel

2”x2” plates and connect them using

vertical stud members. Secure a

2”x2” top plate to the floor joists and

then stick nail in a 2”x2” stud on both

ends of the top plate. Next nail the

bottom plate to the two studs to create

the basic wall. Finally, install on 16”

centers, 2”x2” studs along the entire

length of the plates. Pending the situ-

ation you may need to build the same

framing structure on the other side of

the ductwork. Once you have com-

pleted the second soffit wall simply

install 2” x 2” cross member stud

pieces (lookouts) between the two

soffit wall sections. You will want to

make sure you use a chalk line and a

level during this task to ensure the

soffit walls remain straight. Again, as

the soffit is being stick built, measure

every stud prior to cutting.

Framing the Ceiling

If drywall is to be installed on the

ceiling then you may need to add

effectively a horizontal wall.

Basically the same process is done as

with building soffits, however 2”x4”s

are used for providing clearance for

pipes hanging below the floor joists.

If there are no pipes or wiring hang-

ing below the floor joists, then 1’x3”

strapping may be able to be used.

Simply nail them perpendicular to the

floor joists on 16” centers.

Joe Keca is a specialist in com-

plete building and interior renova-

tions with the Home Improvement

Group. He can be reached at 905-

309-5555. -

At the first sign of a school break,kids have loads of energy. Make the mostof your free time and plan some adven-tures with your family. Take advantage ofontariotravel.net and its great online toolsto make your getaway special! For lots ofevent suggestions happening thiswinter, check out my blog atwww.RobGolfi.com for a link to thefamily fun calendar.

Below are some ideas of things to dowith the kids for upcoming holidays andschool breaks. Whether it's a one-dayadventure, or a few days of thrill-seeking,there's no place like Ontario for fun!

School Break IdeasSchool Break IdeasFAMILY DAY WEEKEND - Family

Day is February 21, 2011Enjoy a break from the everyday -

reconnect with your loved ones, andmake family fun your number one priori-ty!

Winterlude, Ottawa, February 4-20,2011

Welcome to the greatest snow onearth! Skate on the Rideau Canal, thelargest skating rink in the world, play in ahuge snow playground, and spot someawesome snow and ice sculptures!

Bon Soo, Sault Ste. Marie, February4-13, 2011

Chill out at the largest winter carni-val in northern Ontario - there are over 75events going on for the whole family.Play to your heart’s content on the winterplayground, with dogsled rides, snowslides, and much more fun to be had!

Family Day Activities atHarbourfront Centre, Toronto,February 21, 2011

Bring the whole family to Toronto'sharbourfront for an afternoon of skatingon the NatrelTM Rink.

Family Day Weekend at CasaLoma, Toronto, February 20-21, 2011

From ghost tracking to knight train-ing, there are plenty of cool activities atCasa Loma this year at Casa Loma. Therewill even be a 'Dora the Explorer' scav-enger hunt.

Kids-Fest, Toronto (and Hamilton),February 19-21, 2011

Are your kids full of beans? Theywon't be after a day at Kids Fest,Canada's largest indoor inflatable show.

Bouncing is allowed!Family Day Arctic Adventure,

Aurora, February, 21, 2011Both kids and parents will have a

ball in Aurora on Family Day. There willbe loads of outdoor activities, as well aslive entertainment, treasure hunts andmore.

Toronto Zoo Family Day Program,Toronto, February 21, 2011

Come visit the animals and learnabout some of their family trees. OurFamily Day program will include funfacts about zoo families in many of theindoor exhibits.

Winterfest, Markham Museum,February 21, 2011

Celebrate Family Day with outdoorfun, lots of cool activities, crafts andsnacks.

Family Day Weekend at the ROM,Toronto, February 19-21, 2011

Celebrate Family Day at the RoyalOntario Museum with special hands-oncrafts and activities, all included withmuseum admission.

Family Day at Billings EstateNational Historic Site, Ottawa,February 21, 2011

Spend the day having fun with yourfamily at this National Historic Site. Trysnowshoeing, take a sleigh ride and roastmarshmallows in front of a bonfire.Warm up inside with some heritage activ-ities and crafts.

Family Day in Hamilton, Haltonand Brant, Hamilton, February 21, 2011

Family Day coincides with HeritageWeek this year, so why not celebrateboth. Various family-friendly events aretaking place at some of this regions won-derful heritage venues, including theChildren’s Museum, the Dundurn Castle,Griffin House and the Westfield HeritageVillage.

Family Days at the CambridgeButterfly Conservatory, Cambridge,February 19-21, 2011

Do something you've probably neverdone before - hug a bug! Come to theCambridge Butterfly Conservatory onFamily Day weekend this year and takepart in the insect petting zoo.

Check my blog for links to all theseDestinations at www.RobGolfi.com. -

FAMILY DAY FUN


www.GolfiTeam.com


MenusOnly.com is an online restaurant menu guideconnecting you with great restaurants in theHamilton and Burlington areas. Browse throughrestaurant menus, view pictures of restaurant diningareas, patios, and menu items, and print local restau-rant coupons all in one place. MenusOnly.com – a perfect dining experience starts here.

Canadian MortgageChanges

by: Sue IppolitoRBC Mortgage Specialist

On January 17th , financeMinister Jim Flaherty announcedthree new changes to the rules forgovernment insured (defaultinsured) mortgages. The intent ofthese changes is to support thelong-term stability of the housingmarket and address rising house-hold debt in Canada.

New Changes to DefaultInsured Mortgages

1) Lowering the maximumamount consumers can borrowwhen refinancing their mortgages

This change will lower themaximum mortgage amount to85% of the appraised value of theproperty from the current 90%.This change will help to promotesavings in homeownership andensure that homeowners don’tbecome overextended by using allthe equity they have built up intheir home when refinancing.

2) Reducing the maximumamortization period for new gov-ernment insured (default insured)mortgages

The maximum amortizationfor all new default insured mort-gages will be reduced to 30 yearsfrom the current 35 years. Thischange will help reduce total bor-rowing costs for consumers, help-ing them to build up equity morequickly.

3) Withdrawing governmentinsurance backing on lines ofcredit secured by homes: effectiveApril 18.

No impact to RBC as we donot currently participate in thisproduct.

The effective date of the firsttwo changes will be March 18. Ifyou purchase a home and havean approval by CMHC and thebank prior to March 18th itwill still qualify . under currentguidelines if it closes after theeffective date. (Note: certain con-ditions will apply)

These changes only apply todefault insured mortgages. If youhave 20% down payment you canstill apply for a 35 year amortization.

Whether you’re buying yourfirst home, moving to a new home,renewing or switching your exist-ing mortgage to RBC,you cancount on your mortgage specialistfor the advice you need. We canhelp you choose the best rate, termand options for you. Guaranteeyour rate for up to 120 days.CALL ME

Sue Ippolito is a MobileMortgage Specialist with theRoyal Bank of Canada. She canbe reached at 905 648-8567 Fax: 905 648-8571, email,[email protected] or website,http://mortgage.rbc.com/sue.ippolito

The Home StagingProcessby: Sheri Gamble

Details Event Coordination Inc.

In today’s real estate market,home staging is quickly being rec-ognized as the fastest, most inex-pensive and profitable solution forselling your home.

Staging is rapidly becoming anecessity when selling your prop-erty, especially in today’s sluggishand competitive real estate mar-ket.

However, some homeownersare still are confused about howthe “staging” process works.

First step! Call the stager.They will make an appointmentwith you to complete a personal“walk through” of your home.They will focus on improving theproperty to make it appeal to thelargest number of buyers by trans-forming it into a welcoming,appealing and attractive productfor sale.

Most stagers will include intheir consultation fee a written listof recommendations and sugges-tions to improve the look of thehome and maximize it’s value.

Next step is to put those sug-gestions into action. Stagersunderstand the necessity to movequickly and will provide cus-tomized pricing to complete thetasks. Some stagers will price perhour, while others per individualjob. Experienced stagers will out-line costs throughout the entireprocess and will help you stick toyour budget.

Professional home stagers are“bargain hunters”. They willsource unique and unusual furni-ture and decor for your home thatwill immediately transform a

room.Many home stagers partner

with “handymen” that can com-plete minor repairs, update paintcolours, replace broken fixtures ortiles etc. It is “one stop shop-ping”! By fixing these itemsbefore putting the house on themarket gives the prospective buy-ers the feeling the home is in “tiptop shape” and “move in” condi-tion, therefore maximizing it’svalue.

Stagers offer a multitude ofoptions to complete the process.They can work entirely with thehomeowner’s personal items andfurniture yet recreate the entirelook of the home. Or they canpurchase new “impact” pieces togive the property an updated“punch” and polished flair. If nec-essary, rental furniture is oftenused to showcase “scale appropri-ate” furniture choices and identifyrooms.

The homeowner makes what-ever decision best suitable forthem and finally the professionalhome stager will work within theguidelines to target the most likelybuyers and get the home sold!

It’s simple! Call a home stagerto help. You’ll be amazed at theresults!

Sheri Gamble is a Home

Stager and Event Planner with

Details Event Coordination. She

can be reached at 905.632.2602

or via email at sheri@detailsev-

entco.com

Visit www.detailseventco.com. -

Roll your Home Improvment Costs into your MortgageWhat is a Purchase PlusImprovements MortgageProgram?

This mortgage program allowshomebuyers with 5% down pay-ment to finance improvements totheir newly purchased propertyimmediately after taking posses-sion without requiring a separateloan or line of credit.

How do I benefit from thismortgage program?

Find your dream home sooner.Make custom renovations andupgrades to make your hone justright for you. Enjoy the conven-ience of having one mortgage pay-ment and not a mortgage paymentplus a loan or line of credit pay-

ment for the renovations. Benefitfrom lower interest rates.

How does this mortgage pro-gram work?

During the buying process youwill obtain a quote from each con-tractor for the cost of the specificrenovations. Your mortgageamount and mortgage defaultinsurance premium is based on the"as improved" value of the proper-ty. Your 5% down payment isbased on the "as improved" valuerather than the initial purchaseprice. The entire mortgage pro-ceeds including the cost of the ren-ovations are advanced to the solic-itor. The solicitor holds back thecost of the renovations. Once the

renovations are complete, themortgage advisor will order aninspection from a residentialappraiser. The appraiser confirmsthe renovations are complete. Thesolicitor is then advised to releasethe held back funds. The solicitorgives you a draft for the amountyou financed for the renovations.Down Payments Example:Purchase Price = $200,000 /Renovation Cost = $20,000. NewAs Improved Value = $220,000.5% down payment based on AsImproved Value = $11,000 insteadof $10,000 which is based on$200,000 purchase price.

What are the limitations?20% of the initial purchase

price or $40,000 as long as therenovations increase the value ofthe home. Any additional costswill be reviewed on a case by casebasis.

Are there any extra fees?The inspection to confirm the

renovations are complete cost$150 - $200. All rates and insur-ance premiums are exactly thesame as a standard purchase with5% down payment.

For more information on thePurchase Plus ImprovementsMortgage Program and how itcould help you buy your homesooner, please contact the Golfi

Team at 905-575-7700. -


OWN THIS FOR ONLY

$864MONTHLY

STYLISH 2-STOREY & BUNGALOW TOWNS NESTLED WITHIN A BRAND NEW COMMUNITY PARK!

The bi-weekly P.I. payment, based on 5% down, and a purchase price of $228,000 works out to $864 MONTHLY, (based on 5 year term, 35 year amortization)

REGISTER ON-LINE NOW!

www.homesbycambridge.ca

SITE HOURS: Mon,-Thurs 1-5pmSat-Sun 1-5 pm Fri by appointment

MODEL HOME1-289-566-9528905-945-0188

MONTHLY P&I* PAYMENT BASED ON 5% DOWN

HST & GST Included

BUILDERS UPGRADES

AVAILABLE

KITCHENS

OUTSTANDING FEATURES

MarketWatch February B_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 11/02/11 2:00 PM

feb. 15, 2011 issue 20

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