Investment Property, Vacation Home, Condo, Family Home: Now is the Time to Buy.

Buying in this Hot Market

The added selection of homes available, coupled with sellers eager to make a deal makes NOTL’s hot real estate market the perfect time to buy your dream home.  With the large selection of homes comes added competition, so being prepared is important.  As the premier real estate agent for your NOTL real estate needs, I would like to offer you the following helpful tips on how to beat the competition and find your perfect home.

Prepare

With the added chaos of this hot market, being prepared is key.  By being thoroughly prepared, you will be able to find your home and be one step ahead of the competition at all times.  Being prepared for NOTL’s hot real estate market can be broken own into the following three areas.

Ask for a Loan

Before starting your search, take the time to go to your local banks and lenders to see for how much you will be pre-approved.  A pre-approved mortgage will give you an idea of the maximum price range you can afford.  This will help you narrow down your search and allow you to start making viewing appointments with homes that are in your price range.

Set your Criteria

Make sure that you know what is important to you before you start looking.  Make a list that includes all the factors that you want in your dream home.

Remember:

Your list needs to be realistic and flexible because you may have to make some compromises.

Besides the number of bedrooms or bathrooms in a home, don’t forget to include other criteria such as:

  • The distance of that home from your work and how long the commute is going to be.
  • Neighbourhood features such as parks, schools and even local grocery stores or restaurants.
  • The overall walkability score of the property as well as any nearby green space.
  • Any potential development in and around that home.

Make an Offer

Once you have found a home that is in your price range and meets the criteria you are looking for, be prepared to make a reasonable offer.  The faster you put in an offer, the better your chances are of landing your dream home.  The competitiveness of the hot real estate market does not give you the added luxury of thinking about a property.  There are other buyers who are also looking, so the longer you take to make an offer, the more opportunity you are giving other buyers to make an offer – so act quickly.

These tips should help you buy your perfect home.  If you are interested in other helpful tips on buying a home in the competitive real estate market or would like to view some of the new and exciting homes that are available in NOTL, please contact me today.  I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Advantages of Having a Buyer’s Agent

In the United States, the concept of a “buyer’s agent” is commonplace when it comes to purchasing real estate. However, here in Canada, the idea is relatively new. A buyer’s agent can be beneficial to house seekers, as a realtor becomes a personal shopper to a buyer. They can negotiate a house in order to get the best possible pricing and terms.

There is a lot of information to consider before signing on with one of these agents. If you are in the market for Niagara on the Lake realty, this guide will set you up to get the data you need to have a buyer’s agent help you with your new home purchase.

Facts About Buyer’s Agents

The first thing to know about buyer’s agents is that they are fully licensed agents with total access to the MLS, allowing them to show every property available in their area. Mostly, these agents are paid via part of the sales commission on each property.

Unlike most real estate agents that are helping a large number of potential home buyers at a time, buyer’s agents typically limit the number of clients to around 10. This allows the agent to focus more time on finding the home that best fits a purchaser’s needs. For buyers, an agent normally requires them to be committed to them instead of shopping around for other agents. Making multiple meetings between the buyer and the agent can help get a feel of the market and determine if that agent is the best agent for that client.

What Are the Benefits?

Now that you’ve looked into what makes a buyer’s agent, it helps to know what sets them apart from other agents in the area. The biggest item is that they typically work for the buyer in place of the seller. There are additional differences to consider:

  • Lack of property bias. With many listing agents, while they can show you any property that is known as a Multiple Listing, they show you their own listings first, as they can receive more of a financial incentive to do so. This increases if they sell you one of these homes.
  • Expanded services areas. In place of the limited geographic areas other realtors offer homes for, buyer’s agents can examine properties in an entire metro area.
  • Straightforward property opinions. Due to responsibilities from the seller, listing agents are prohibited from informing buyers if a property is overpriced. Buyer’s agents offer feedback on pricing as well as property history, historical pricing information and more.
  • Pricing advice. A buyer’s agent will take into consideration aspects such as future marketability and appraisal value to ensure a client is not paying more for a property than they should.

Niagara on the Lake Realty Buyer’s Agent

As shown above, a buyer’s agent is one that puts the needs of a home buyer first. From the initial meeting to the final closing, they work to ensure clients get the best value for their perfect home.

If you are in the market for a new home, the experts at Bosley Real Estate are available to help you find the house that fits your needs. Learn more by calling 905-988-3222 today, or check out our listings by visiting our website.

 Buying an Income Property

Are you hoping to find a great investment property in Niagara on the Lake? When well-planned and executed, an income property can be a valuable asset that keeps on giving for years to come. Though finding a rental is a good investment that will bring you some extra cash, you do not want to purchase just any property.

There is a unique formula that sets some real estate away from others and makes them the more successful choice as a rental. Keeping that in mind, have fun with your search. Looking at different Niagara homes is an exciting experience — especially when it will be putting money in your pockets. Here are a few traits that make a home the perfect income property.

Desirable Location

When purchasing a home to rent to others, you want to make sure that you are buying in a desirable location. The last scenario that you will want is for your home to sit on the market for ages, getting vandalized and attracting criminals, simply because it is in a bad neighbourhood.

Review the local school systems as well as online crime reports — any good renter is certain to do the same — and make a note of any locations that present red flags. Luckily, Niagara is a beautiful, friendly area that fulfills the desire for security. Most who live in the location love the charm and close knit feel. You will certainly attract renters in this highly desirable location.

No Major Issues

Many people begin their search for the perfect income property under the impression that the thing to do is pick a quaint fixer-upper and hope for the best. Though some might have success flipping houses, this is not the cheapest nor the most secure route to take.

You do not have to find the newest Niagara home, and you can certainly make your own improvements, but make sure that the property that you buy does not have any costly hidden secrets such as electrical or plumbing problems or structural issues. Not only are major issues very costly to repair, but they also take away from valuable time that you could be using to improve the appeal of your property.

Amenities in Niagara Homes

A lot of renters do not own their own major appliances and look for properties that include features such as a microwave, refrigerator, washer and dryer and other useful home appliances. The more amenities that your home features, the better. Some extras to consider include a fireplace, garbage disposal and central heating and air conditioning. These are the features that will draw good renters to your property and make them want to stay long term.

Functional Properties

A property with a poor layout and limited storage space simply will not do as an income property. Renters want a functional home that will work well for themselves and their family members. Make sure that the home that you purchase can fit this bill and fulfill all their wants and needs.

If you would like more information about buying Niagara homes as a source of income, visit our buying page or contact a representative with Niagara on the Lake Real Estate today.

Reasons to Buy a Vacation Home

Niagara on the Lake has a lot to offer the aspiring purchaser of a vacation home. The quaint small-town feel, the beauty of our historic buildings, a relaxed atmosphere and a way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life are all major draws to this area.

Many people wonder if purchasing a vacation home is the right move. For the prospective buyer, a home away from home has a lot to offer. Here are a few reasons why you should consider purchasing a vacation property through Niagara on the Lake Realty.

The Family Retreat

There are a lot of advantages to owning a property as a family retreat. After a few trips to the area, you will get to know all of the best local amenities. Whether it’s your favorite small antique shop, the best eateries and pubs in the area or the fun tourist attractions, they will all be on your mind after only a few visits to Niagara on the Lake.

In addition, by purchasing a home you will save trouble on deciding where to go on vacation, and on planning the details of your trips. All you need do is pack your bags for a couple days, weeks or months and go! Your vacation property will become a second home, but without the stresses of your daily life.

A Place to Move

Many vacation properties eventually turn into places for relocation. You might find that you love our little town even more than your current permanent home and move here for good. In fact, we hope you do!

Even if you remain in your own home, however, it is nice to have a potential retirement home when the time comes to leave work behind and live the easy life. A vacation home serves as insurance that there is another place out there that you can call home for good, should you ever need to do so.

Investments and Rental Income

You can always exercise the option to rent your property to others needing a vacation space, creating a potentially excellent secondary stream of revenue. This can help you build up a great nest egg, college fund or retirement fund as the years go by.

It is also well-known that real estate is an excellent investment. If you keep your property in good repair, you may decide to sell it several years down the line for much more than your original purchase price, and if you do, our agency will be there to help you in that endeavor as well!

These are just a few great reasons to consider purchasing a vacation home at NOTL. If you are thinking about buying or selling a property in our region, give us a call today. We look forward to working with you.

Is a New Development Right for You?

There are many beautiful, new developments in the Niagara on the Lake area. These residential communities draw people from all walks of life who are looking for a quiet, homey place to live in this vacation town. Buying new has many benefits, including greater customization options, the peace of mind that the home has been cared for properly as well as the ability to live in a more energy efficient house.

Though these advantages are for everyone, new construction is particularly good for young, growing families. The atmosphere of the community coupled with a good investment that could yield a great return makes newer developments a great place to start your real estate journey. Here are just a few reasons why new developments are perfect for growing families.

The Home is New

When you buy a new home, you do not have to worry about what is under the carpet, behind the walls or if the appliances will need to be replaced. The house you are buying has never been lived in before. Many used homes, even those that are sold as “move-in ready,” will need costly repairs after your purchase. There are often upgrades to be completed, walls to be painted and floors to be replaced. The building materials for a new home are brand new and the appliances are the most modern that are available, requiring no repairs after move-in on your part. You do not want to have to worry about everything that needs to be fixed in your home while you are trying to relocate your growing family.

Easier to Maintain

The last thing that you want to have to spend your time on while you are raising a family is unnecessary home maintenance. Not only will your newly constructed home be free of costly immediate repair needs at move-in, new construction is built to require less home maintenance. Contemporary builders are committed to making your house a more enjoyable place to live and are continuously finding new ways to ease the stress of home maintenance. This is one of the great perks of buying new constructions: you will be able to reap all the benefits of modern convenience.

Living in a New Community

New communities tend to draw many young couples and those who are raising a family. This makes the neighborhood very enjoyable for both adults and children. It is easy to find friends who have like interests, work in the same areas or have children who attend the same schools as your own. Young communities are very vibrant. These new developments create fun, safe environments in which to live and raise a family.

A Great Investment

Investing in new construction can have great benefits when you decide that it is time to sell and relocate once more. A new home that has been well maintained and has modern, efficient appliances will hold value and do well on the market. Once the community becomes established and gains popularity, your home value will increase and you may be able to get well above your asking price in potential offers.

For more information on buying Niagara on the Lake real estate, visit our buying page or contact Kevin Stokes today.

Financial Benefits of Owning a Condo

If you are looking to purchase a Niagara on the Lake home, considering a condominium can provide you a great opportunity. There are many benefits to owning a condo, the greatest of which are financial. Both young and more mature buyers will find that the advantages of owning a condo are unmatched in comparison to owning a detached property. It is an easier way to live the luxurious lifestyle that you desire without breaking the bank — and you may earn a profit in the process. Before you begin searching for your Niagara on the Lake real estate, consider these financial benefits of owning a condo.

Lower Price

Right from the start, purchasing a condo is easier on your wallet. Prices of condos are much lower than those of a single family home, resulting in a decreased down payment. A lower down payment is extremely helpful to first time homebuyers, and very beneficial if you are searching for a vacation home, investment property or looking to downsize. Your monthly mortgage payments will also be more economically friendly. You’ll experience luxury living at a fraction of the price.

Resale Value

Condos generally hold their value better than detached properties. Owning a condo in a desirable building with few available units can bring you a great return when you decide to sell. Upgrading your home to add value is also financially easier than making improvements to a larger home. Many of the upgrades that add value to your property will not even be something you do; the building management will make continuous improvements that put money in your pocket.

Amenities

Owning a home with a pool and gym may be far out of your budget if you are only considering detached properties. Investing in a condo can provide you with your desired amenities at just a small percentage of the price.

Maintenance

Low maintenance is one of the biggest perks of owning a condo. The stress of caring for the roof, heating and air and landscaping is not included in condominium living. The financial burden is split between residents through HOA fees, making your individual costs much lower. The amenities you desire also require no maintenance from you; there is no need to worry about proper pool care and lawn management.

Utilities

Owning a smaller property means lower utility costs. If you are looking to purchase your first home or downsize to something more financially manageable, this is a huge benefit. Lower utilities gives you more money to enjoy Niagara on the Lake living.

Income Property

Buying a condo can be a great opportunity to bring in some extra income. You can rent the home as a vacation property or, when you decide it is time to upgrade, find more permanent tenants. A condo is more likely to pay for itself and yield you a profit.

Buying a condo through Bosley Real Estate will give you many great financial benefits. For more information, visit our buyer’s page.

Finally

Right now is an excellent time to buy.  If it is an investment property, a vacation property, a new development, or your dream home, it is worth a look at the gorgeous properties available on the Niagara on the Lake real estate market.

Give us a call today!