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4 Ways Toronto Realtors Can Help You Make the Best Decision


Making the choice to buy or sell a house is a huge decision, and it comes with many complicated processes that can be difficult and confusing. Fortunately, working with a realtor can help simplify these processes and make the home buying or selling experience a pleasant one. There are many ways Toronto realtors can help you make the best decision.

4 Ways Toronto Realtors Can Help You Make the Best Decision

The Hunt

If you are a house buyer, the top way a realtor can help you make a good decision is during the house-hunting process. You probably have a whole list of features your new house must have and a list of things that would be nice to have. A key responsibility of a realtor is to help you clarify what you want most in a house so they can scour the market to find options that meet your needs the best.

Your dream house may not align with your budget, but a realtor can find you properties that come as close to fulfilling your dreams as possible while still being in your price range. Your realtor will keep your expectations realistic and make sure you get into a house that you're happy with, but which won't break the bank and leave you in trouble financially. You can get carried away with house hunting, but a realtor will keep you reigned in.

The Negotiation

Not everyone is a born salesman and not everyone enjoys negotiations. Having a realtor means you don't have to negotiate directly with the other party, whether you're the buyer or the seller. Buyers, of course, want to pay as little as possible, while sellers want to get the most for their house as they can. A realtor represents the desires of their client and will negotiate in that client's best interests, knowing that some concessions will have to be made.

Speaking of concessions, a realtor knows what constitutes deal breakers and what types of things can be compromised on. For example, if a severe foundation issue comes up during inspection, your realtor knows that this is not something that can be ignored by the seller. It must be fixed or the price must be reduced. Negotiating this yourself is tricky, but a realtor knows the ins and outs of the entire process and will help you make a good decision.

The Inspection

Most home buyers and sellers are not experts on home construction, so the inspection process can be a bit complicated. Fortunately, realtors know exactly what to look for during an inspection and will even attend the actual inspection if you request it. In fact, it is part of a buyer's agent's job to attend the inspection so they know what the issues are and can use them to negotiate repair requests or a reduced sales price.

The knowledge that a realtor has is the main perk of having them negotiate inspection issues on your behalf. They have seen just about any issue you can imagine and are able to estimate what each repair is worth, saving you a lot of time and stress.

Buying or selling a house is probably one of the biggest moves you'll ever make. Give Greater Toronto Area Real Estate a call today and our knowledgeable real estate agents will help you make the best decisions for the entire buying or selling process.
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Buying a House in Toronto? 10 Popular Mortgage Terms You Should Recognize


In Toronto, the real estate market has seen a continuous sales boom, thanks to favourable economic factors and large consumer demand. A mortgage can help you purchase a house in Toronto without paying the full purchase price beforehand. Since mortgages typically involve long-term payment plans, you should learn how mortgages work and the different terminologies used in mortgage lending.


10 Popular Mortgage Terms You Should Recognize

1. Preapproval

A preapproval is a document from the lender that informs a borrower how much they have been approved for in a home loan. Lenders usually evaluate the borrower's income, credit score, and assets to determine how much they can borrow.

2. Foreclosure

Foreclosure is a legal process in which a lender sells a mortgaged property after the borrower fails to meet the mortgage's terms to pay a borrower's defaulted loan.

3. Appraisal

An appraisal is the evaluation of a home by a licensed appraiser to determine its current market value.  An appraisal provides the mortgage lender with an assurance that you're not applying for more than the home's value.

4. Down Payment

A down payment is the portion of the purchase price that a borrower pays upfront toward the home. Most mortgage lenders require some down payment and often list it as a percentage of your loan's value.

5. Escrow

Escrow is an account set up by a lender where the home buyer pays for various property-related expenses such as homeowner's insurance and property taxes. Although some lenders incorporate escrow payments to the monthly mortgage dues together with interest and principal, you can opt to make these payments directly without using escrow.

6. Amortization

Amortization is the reduction of the amount owed by making consistent monthly payments. Each payment a borrower makes, part of it goes toward the principal and the other toward the interest.

7. Closing Costs

Closing costs are the fees paid to the lender when a home is refinanced or purchased. Closing fees include the appraisal fee, loan origination fee, title search and title insurance fees, pest inspection fees, and taxes.

8. Home Owner's Insurance

Homeowner's insurance protects you against financial losses if your home or its contents get damaged or destroyed by unexpected hazards. Some of the perils covered include fires, windstorms, and burglary.

9. Balloon Mortgage

A balloon mortgage is a loan type where the borrower makes small payments for a given period (usually 5-7 years) and then makes a final, larger-than-usual payment at the end of the loan term.

10. Equity

Equity is the fair market value of a home minus the outstanding balance of any existing mortgage.

Buying a home is an exciting investment – and the more you learn before buying your home – the better decisions you'll make! Now that you've learned the most commonly used mortgage terms, reviewing mortgage options should be a walk in the park. If you need help with buying a home in Toronto, contact the experts at GTA SELLING Real Estate to get more information about the real estate market in Toronto.
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Selling Your Home During a Pandemic? Navigating the Toronto Housing Market in Uncertain Times


The coronavirus pandemic is creating a unique set of circumstances for nearly every industry. The received wisdom isn't always working these days, and if you're trying to sell your home during the pandemic, you need more than just general knowledge about the Toronto housing market. You need specific, real-time information about how things are playing out.

Navigating the Toronto Housing Market in Uncertain Times

1. Know What's Happening

The Bad News

There's no way to sugar-coat what's happening. The real estate market throughout Canada, and in Toronto, is reeling. Adjusted seasonally, the market for homes has fallen more than 66% since March.
 
Some of this is due to required social distancing, which makes it harder to get buyers in to look at a home. The economy has also taken a hit, driving down prices from March even as buyers decide to wait a bit before making a move.

The Good News

The good news is that the market is still holding its own. Yes, there has been a price drop since March, but the average selling price hasn't changed much year-on-year from this time in 2019, and the benchmark price rose by 10%.

This is due in part to the new reality of the home as the center of the universe. People are working from home, educating their kids from home, even attending parties and church from home. Home prices are stable in part because, even as the economy dips, the home is more important than ever.

2. Get Digital Assistance

Because things are changing quickly, it's more important than ever to work with someone who has their ear to the ground. You're going to need them to help you think outside the box.

Choose agents with a 24-hour-a-day online presence and the tools to offer digital solutions. Agents who are already connected and used to a digital environment will be ready to help you work around traditional marketing tactics that can't be used during a pandemic.

3. Develop Pandemic Strategies

Ask About a Video Tour

Now is not the time to be hosting an open house, but it's a great time to put together a video tour to upload with photos to MLS websites.

A video allows buyers to actually feel the layout of the home in a way static pictures cannot. While potential buyers will always have to come to see the place in person eventually, you'll narrow the field more quickly to the truly serious buyers by providing a good video.

Stay Clean

Clean your home between showings, and make sure anyone who comes to see it knows you're taking sanitation seriously. Make people feel safe about coming, and you'll get more serious inquires.

Learn to Use Teleconferencing

Another reason to work with an excellent local Toronto agent who can navigate the digital world? Technology allows you to do much of the process online--if you have the right tools. You can talk with buyers, hold negotiations, meet with your agent, and even sign contracts remotely.

Get the Help You Need

A great agent is always essential: that has never been more true. It is possible to sell your home quickly and for a reasonable price, even during a pandemic. Reach out to GTA Selling now and make it happen.
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Is Etobicoke Real Estate a Good Investment?


Real estate in the Toronto area has been more popular than ever in the last couple of years - Toronto and its neighbouring areas are the places to be for young people, growing families, and those who are interested in taking advantage of the easy commute options to get around the city. But is Etobicoke real estate a good investment overall? Yes, and we're happy to explain why.

3 Ways Etobicoke Real Estate Is a Good Investment

1. First-Time Buyers

First-time buyers usually put a lot of careful thought into investing in a house or condo that they plan to live for the foreseeable future. Fortunately, Etobicoke is a neighbourhood great for first-time buyers, including those with children.

If you've finally had enough with renting cramped apartments or you're ready to upgrade, Etobicoke has plenty of housing options near convenient public transit, markets, and schools.

New Developments Are Popping Up Everywhere

One of the most exciting things about Etobicoke real estate is the fact that new developments are on the rise, especially when it comes to condominiums.

A condo in this neighbourhood will be recently built with all the amenities and room you need, all without the competitive - and expensive - units available in Toronto proper. Condos in this neighbourhood are also ideal for commuters.

2. House Flippers

If you're a house flipper, someone who buys older properties and gives them a total overhaul for a better sale later one, then you should be pleased to learn that the housing in Etobicoke is particularly good if you can find a buyer who wants to upsize from a smaller residence.

Renovate Classic Residential Neighborhoods

The classic residential neighbourhoods in Etobicoke have seen a surge of renovations lately. Most of these renovations honour the classic structure of these homes while still modernizing their interiors to be more attractive to contemporary buyers: mainly families that are looking for more room.

3. Property Investors

For property investors, Etobicoke is probably your most exciting prospect right now. This is a neighbourhood gaining a lot of popularity recently and has a slew of new developments, businesses, and conveniences that are drawing more people to the area. This is why it might be time to strike while the iron is hot and invest in a property you can rent out.

Why Renting Your Property Out Is a Good Idea

Renting your property out is not only a reliable way to make steady revenue, but it also gives you more opportunities for investment. Rental properties allow investors to have tenants who are looking for affordable quality housing, which means you may soon be able to make another property investment.

Just remember to move fast to buy and renovate the property for rental - the real estate market here is hot and properties are sold quickly.

Etobicoke might be the most promising real estate in the greater Toronto area, which means it's an excellent opportunity for real estate investment. Whether you're a first-time buyer or you're planning on renting your property out, Etobicoke is swimming with new developments and opportunities. Contact GTA Selling Real Estate in Toronto, Ontario to learn more.
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4 Places to Find the Best Mississauga Real Estate


House hunting in the Greater Toronto Area can feel daunting. Whether you are buying or selling a house, where do you go for the best Mississauga real estate? Let's take a look at how to find an agent who understands the market and knows how to work for you.

4 Places to Find the Best Mississauga Real Estate 

1. From a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent in Your Area

When you are looking to buy property, you want someone who knows what they're doing. We give individual attention to each of our clients to ensure the best possible results. If you are a first-time homebuyer, you need an agent who can take you from the first step to the last without unnecessary stress.

If you are selling Mississauga real estate, you want an agent who shows off the best parts of your home and who can match you with a good buyer. Selling a home is more than just throwing a few photos together and listing specifications. Our proficient agents understand all the details associated with home buying.
 

2. From a User-Friendly Website

Another important aspect of a good real estate company a website that is easy to use. Our website includes sections for: 

  • Buyer information
  • Seller information
  • Specific neighbourhoods
  • Listed properties
  • Customer testimonials


The Properties section is a great way to browse properties for sale in the Toronto and Etobicoke areas. If you are a seller, you can also get an idea of home prices in your area or for the type of property you're selling.

3. From an Agency With Expertise

When it comes to selling your house, you want an agency with experienced professionals. Keep in mind that a good seller uses excellent photographers and videographers, smart home-staging consultants, and intuitive marketing consultants. Experienced agencies also work with professional home inspectors and contractors.

You also want a good agent on your side when you are purchasing Mississauga real estate property. We won't sell you a property that doesn't fit your needs: you should be able to trust your agent, which is why we work hard to ensure good communication and personalized service.

4. From Agents With Proven Results

Look for an agency with accurate information about the real estate market in Toronto. We employ the use of analytics to maintain up-to-date reports on home prices in Toronto neighbourhoods. We also regularly post our analytics results on our Blogs page.

We take care of our clients, and we stay up-to-date on the latest in real estate development so our information is always accurate and helpful. If you have a question, we want to answer it. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in the Greater Toronto Area, we want to help there, too.

Whether you are ready to sell, buy, or just thinking about real estate at this stage, contact Greater Toronto Area Real Estate today. Our agents can answer your questions and get you to the next step in your home buying or home selling experience.

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Buy or Sell? Unlocking the Toronto Real Estate Market in 2020


The world is experiencing an unprecedented pandemic, and unemployment is at an all-time high. Despite COVID-19 resulting in some of the worst months in the nation's economic history, the Toronto real estate market continues to be one thing doing quite well in a time when very few things are.

Growing Fast

Just this month, a report from Ryerson University's Centre for Urban Research (CUR) named Toronto the fastest-growing metropolitan area in all of North America. At the time of the most recent census, the Greater Toronto Area's (GTA) population had reached 6.4 million, and as of last year, Toronto proper was home to a whopping 2.7 million people.

Why are so many people flocking to the largest city in Canada, and what does this mean for the Toronto real estate market?

A Desirable Place to Live

According to The Economist Intelligence Unit, Toronto ranks in the top 5 most livable cities in the world based on overall scoring across five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Toronto not only received an overall score of 97.2 out of 100 but also received top scores of 100 specifically for its stability, healthcare, and education.

The city offers easy access to public transit, making it incredibly navigable for residents going to work, school, or to any of the city's popular recreational destinations without a car.

Vibrant Culture

Made up of more than 200 ethnic groups with over 140 languages spoken, Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world. The richness of the city's diversity is on display not only in annual music, film, and art festivals throughout the year but also in the established film industry (the third largest in North America) and the robust art scene found in the GTA.

What Does This Mean for the Toronto Real Estate Market?

Despite public health and economic concerns stemming from COVID-19 in 2020, the Toronto real estate market is still very much thriving due to the desirability of the area.

A report from GlobeNewswire outlined the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board's (TRREB) findings that, while May 2020 sales were down 53.7% compared to last year, these results showed a marked improvement over April 2020; May 2020 sales increased by 55.2% compared to the previous month.

Selling

The good news for sellers is that, for the most part, home prices in Toronto are still going for asking price or above asking price during the pandemic. Those monitoring the GTA real estate market have noticed a renewed level of competitiveness in the area, brought on by the pent-up demand of consumers living in the world of COVID-19.

While experts note that sales activity has decreased over the last few months, there has been a corresponding drop in supply. This, coupled with the demand from buyers, has resulted in a sellers' market in many areas, just as it was prior to the pandemic. While experts cannot say how long the competitiveness will last, current sales show properties experiencing bidding wars and receiving multiple-offer scenarios.

Buying

Buyers, don't beware! Despite trends indicating that Toronto is still very much a sellers' market, now is still a good time to buy. Home prices may not display a hefty discount during the pandemic, but interest rates are at an all-time low.

According to RateSpy, interest rates are now as low as 2.79% for a 10-year, fixed-rate mortgage, and an earlier June report from the same mortgage comparison site disclosed Canada's lowest-ever bank-advertised rate of 1.99% for a five-year fixed mortgage through HSBC.

These historically low interest rates, coupled with the forecast of increasing real estate prices throughout the GTA, make now the perfect time to buy in the incredibly livable, desirable Toronto area.

Looking to buy or sell in Toronto? Visit GTA Selling for trusted real estate agents who can knowledgeably and professionally guide you through the process.
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