Thursday, December 22, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Frank Fallico to the Kingsway Branch

 RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Frank Fallico to the Kingsway Branch



Franks first business experience came when Home Depot first came to Canada. He was part of the team that put the first store up in the country. Home Depot on their launch into Canada was really something historic at that time. Here he learned the power of organization, sales training, supplier relationships, inventory management, and merchandising along with customer service.
Entrepreneurial in spirit Frank’s first career choice was based in the music industry.
In 1995 a childhood friend and him partnered up and created a music label. They enjoyed success; In 1999 he was nominated for a Juno, and shortly later produced on a Gold Selling Record in Canada. The first of its kind in our genre of music.
In 2001 Frank moved into the fitness industry and used the resources he had acquired to become an owner and partner in a chain of retail stores called the Fitness Source. He grew the business from 2 stores to 10. He also developed an online and commercial business.
As owners in a small company they were responsible for all of the operations and they wore many hats. Franks duties were namely, sales training, recruiting of staff, development of managers, supplier relationships, product selection along with product training. Later he was part of the marketing and development team of the brand.
In 2008 his retail business was purchased by the Forzani Group (Sport Chek, Sport Mart, National Sports,etc) and he stayed on as Regional manager for the transition.
Over the last 10 years he has been involved in various levels of real estate both personally and from investment purposes and felt drawn to the industry.
His good friend who started the music label with Frank was named David Oey. David moved on into real estate at the same time he moved into the fitness industry. They remained good friends all along, he helped mentor and encouraged Frank to pursue a more active role in real estate.
David always spoke very highly of the people he was working with, The Pettigrew and Estlick Team from Re/max Professionals. Frank owes many thanks to David Oey and more recently Darryl Mitchell for making an easy decision to chart his future with Re/max Professionals. Please welcome Frank at fallicofrank@gmai.com

Thursday, December 15, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Jody Thompson to the Kingsway Branch

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Jody Thompson to the Kingsway Branch 
Jody is a top producing professional sales representative with over 25 years of experience in the technology and home building industry. His reputation has been built on consistently delivering a differentiated service level for his clients. His passion for people and expertise in internet marketing lead him to a new career in real estate. Jody grew up in Port Credit and currently resides with his wife and family in South Etobicoke. He looks forward to working with you to make buying or selling your home a success.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Cell Phone Numbers Go Public This Month

REMEMBER: Cell Phone Numbers Go Public this month.
REMINDER..... all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies and you will start to receive sales calls.
.... YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS!!
To prevent this, go to the following web-site for Canadian Telephone Numbers:
www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca <http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/>
It is the National DO NOT CALL list It will only take a minute of your time. It blocks your number for five (5) years.
HELP OTHERS BY PASSING THIS ON. It takes about 20 seconds.
If you do not have a cell phone, send this email to your friends and family who have a cell and may not know about this recent event.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Bank of Canada maintains overnight rate target at 1 per cent

Ottawa -
The Bank of Canada today announced that it is maintaining its target for the overnight rate at 1 per cent. The Bank Rate is correspondingly 1 1/4 per cent and the deposit rate is 3/4 per cent.
Uncertainty around the global economic outlook has increased in the weeks since the Bank released its October Monetary Policy Report (MPR). Conditions in global financial markets have deteriorated as the sovereign debt crisis in Europe has deepened. Additional measures will be required to contain the European crisis. The recession in Europe is now expected to be more pronounced than the Bank had anticipated in October, as a result of increased deleveraging and tighter financial conditions, as well as necessary fiscal austerity and structural reforms.
Recent economic data suggest that growth in the United States has been slightly more robust than anticipated, largely as a result of continued vigour in consumer spending and business investment. Nonetheless, household deleveraging, fiscal consolidation and negative spillover effects from the European crisis are all expected to weigh on U.S. growth. Growth in China and other emerging-market economies continues to be strong, although there are signs that it is moderating to a more sustainable pace in response to weaker external demand and the lagged effects of past policy tightening.

For More Information Select Link Below:

http://www.bankofcanada.ca/2011/12/press-releases/fad-press-release-2011-12-06/

Thursday, December 1, 2011

CANADIAN HOME PRICES FLAT IN SEPTEMBER - MONTHLY REPORT ATTACHED

Canadian home prices in September were flat from the previous month, according to the Teranet-National Bank National Composite House Price Index™. The plateau followed nine consecutive monthly increases. Prices were also flat in two of the 11 metropolitan markets surveyed, Ottawa-Gatineau (ending a run of seven straight monthly gains) and Vancouver (ending a run of 11 straight gains - the longest among the 11 markets).

TO READ MORE SELECT LINK BELOW:
http://www.housepriceindex.ca/admin.aspx?mode=voirHTML&nonews=186&qui=3791&langue=EN

Monday, November 21, 2011

Smartphone pictures pose privacy risks

PLEASE PASS THIS INFO TO ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO TAKES PICTURES WITH THEIR CELL OR SMART PHONE AND POSTS THEM ON LINE.
I want everyone of you to watch this and then be sure to share with all your family and friends. Its REALLY important info, about what your posting things on your cell phones can do TO YOU!!! So much technology out there these days so beware............. PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO WATCH THIS VIDEO, AND TAKE THE RECOMMENDED PRECAUTIONS.
To watch video click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2vARzvWxwY

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

In real estate there is no "right answer" on how to be successful. BUT, we have found that some agents are "more right" than others.

In real estate there is no "right answer" on how to be successful. BUT, we have found that some agents are "more right" than others.


ActiveRain conducted a survey(1) of 1,758 real estate professionals to find out what separates the top real estate professionals (those earning over $100,000 a year, we'll call them 'Rich Real Estate Agents') from the struggling real estate professionals (those earning under $35,000 a year, we'll call them 'Poor Real Estate Agents'). 379, or 22% of respondents were Rich Real Estate Agents, while 363 or 21% of respondents were Poor Real Estate Agents

To discover what was learned click here:
http://activerain.com/blogsview/2594884/rich-real-estate-agent-poor-real-estate-agent

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

RE/MAX and You on November 2nd, 2011

I know, I know, I know! You are just tired of hearing of how many opportunities RE/MAX has for you to attend and learn. Sometimes the amount of information out there is just overwhelming. The overwhelming number of emails, the calls from Vendors selling the biggest and best new thingy that will set you and your business apart, etc. etc. etc..
I want to challenge you to attend RE/MAX and You on November 22nd, 2011
I use RE/MAX and You as a day to reflect on what is coming and what is important for me. Where else can you get a trusted source of information on what is new and what is smart. Trust that is what it is all about. Not some competitor just wanting you to move to them. Not a salesperson just wanting you to buy their wares or services. A trusted source of knowledge to build your business foundation on.
The knowledge to impart to you a strong business direction, the Brand strength to implement the strategy for success and the confidence to win the day.
If you have not yet registered for RE/MAX and You, do so today. Take the day to reflect, engage, network and prepare for 2012.
I look forward to seeing you at RE/MAX and You!
Darryl Mitchell

RE/MAX Professionals Incorporated Brokerage

Monday, November 14, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Nick Goomber

 

Nick Goomber comes to Remax Professionals from an engineering background. Having attended the University of Toronto for Mechanical Engineering gave him an in-depth understanding of Project Management, structural design and intensive research and marketing methods. At a young age he involved himself with his family’s businesses and taking on the role of General Manager after graduation dealt with construction, leasing, marketing and advertising, new product development and budgeting. Nick is involved in sports and charities, and was given the honour to be part of the prestigious 2010Vancouver Winter Olympic Games where he was chosen to  run the Olympic Torch for part of the journey across Canada. 
Nick can be reach at 647-865-6455 or ngoomber@trebnet.com

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Make remembrance more than something you feel. Make it something you do.

"We live in a wonderful Country, full of opportunities and freedoms we should never take for granted. We owe to those who have served, and are serving today to learn, understand, and appreciate the task they have undertaken. Through their courage, and sacrifice they have given us an opportunity to to be free. THANK YOU."
Christine & Darryl Mitchell

Each year, from November 5 to 11, Canadians join together to celebrate Veterans’ Week - this year is no different.
During this week, hundreds of commemorative ceremonies and events will take place across the country to recognize the achievements of our Veterans and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
This Veterans’ Week, take the remembrance challenge. There are many ways to show that you remember and honour our Veterans:
  • Pin a poppy above your heart.
  • Attend the local Remembrance Day ceremony.
  • Talk to a friend or relative who has just returned home from Afghanistan or who served in other areas of conflict.
  • Listen to Veterans talk about their experiences.
  • Create a mashup and share it on the YouTube Channel
  • Visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Facebook fan page, write on our wall and share how you remember.
  • Follow Veterans Affairs Canada on Twitter and tweet about how you remember
  • Change your Facebook profile picture to a poppy.
  • Blog, tweet or update your Facebook status about the importance of remembrance.
For more on this article please follow this link:

http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/veterans-week

Monday, November 7, 2011

Housing evolution driving average price appreciation

For immediate release

Housing evolution driving average price appreciation

in Canada’s major centres, says RE/MAX

Record investment dollars poured into Canadian housing stock over past decade

Mississauga, ON (November 7, 2011) -- Billions spent in new construction, renovation, and infill over

the past decade have contributed to a serious upswing in the calibre of Canada’s housing stock,

propping up residential average price in the country’s major centres, according to a report released

today by RE/MAX.
 
For More on This Article please see link.
http://www.remax-oa.com/MediaNewsroom/Lists/PressReleases/Attachments/69/REMAX_HE_2011_REL.pdf

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Fixed or Variable - It's NO Contest

Variable-rate mortgages are so over.
Go fixed rate if you’re arranging or renewing a mortgage, and think hard about the four-year term. If you take in all the recent developments in the mortgage market, this is the most logical strategy.
Variable-rate mortgages are being sold at the prime rate in many cases right now, which is 3 per cent. The traditional discount off prime? Snuffed out by the banks. They’ve decided they aren’t making enough money from discounted variable-rate mortgages, so goodbye discount for the most part. If you shop around, maybe you’ll get 0.2 of a point off prime.
For more on this article from Globe & Mail writer Rob Carrick go to:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/personal-finance/variable-or-fixed-its-no-contest/article2220424/

Thursday, October 27, 2011

2011 - Canadian Online Banking scorCard Review

For the second straight year RBC Royal Bank has ranked 1st in Surviscor’s Online Banking scorCard, a comprehensive, objective annual assessment of online features and functionality at major Canadian banking institutions. TD Canada Trust, a previous two-time winner, again placed second. Last year’s third place finisher, CIBC, has been bumped by BMO Bank of Montreal which jumped from eighth place. This year also marks the first time the big five banks have taken the top five spots. Surviscor introduced Ally into the review and once again, customer e-mail responsiveness initiated outside of the secure website is poor as measured by Surviscor's ongoing Customer Email Responsiveness (CER) program. Not one online banking firm attained Surviscor's Platinum status of under 4 hours average response time.”

http://www.surviscor.com/ScorView/Reviews/OnlineBanking/2011/

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

GTA REALTORS(R) Release New Quarterly Condo Market Report

GTA REALTORS(R) Release New Quarterly Condo Market Report
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 10/24/11 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 5,770 condominium apartment transactions through the TorontoMLS® system in the third quarter of 2011, representing a 24 per cent increase over the same period in 2010. The average selling price increased by almost nine per cent to $333,352.

http://www.euroinvestor.co.uk/news/story.aspx?id=11822932

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Teranet and National Bank expand the coverage of the Canadian house price index

Montreal, October 19, 2011 – National Bank and Teranet are pleased to announce the expansion of the Teranet – National Bank House Price Index™ to five additional metropolitan areas. House price indices will now also be available for Edmonton, Hamilton, Québec, Victoria and Winnipeg as early as October 26, 2011.

Combined with the current Canadian metropolitan areas covered by the index, Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa (now Ottawa-Gatineau), Toronto, and Vancouver, the aggregate value of occupied dwellings in the metropolitan area covered by the indices now represents 64% of the Canadian aggregate value1 .

More:
http://www.housepriceindex.ca/admin.aspx?mode=voirHTML&nonews=168&qui=3791&langue=EN

Friday, October 14, 2011

Give homeowners a permanent rebate

This is a great article to pass on:
Given the state of the economy, a permanent rebate on home renos would go a long way to stimulate the economy and help maintain home values.


Tuesday, October 11, 2011

September Rounds Out a Strong Third Quarter in Real Estate

October 5, 2011 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 7,658 transactions through the TorontoMLS® system in September - a 25 per cent increase over September 2010. Sales during the first three quarters of 2011 amounted to 70,588, representing a 2.6 per cent increase compared to the first nine months of 2010.

"We have experienced strong growth in sales so far this year, with a much more active summer compared to 2010. However, while sales have been strong, we have continued to experience a shortage of listings, resulting in more competition between home buyers," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver.
http://bit.ly/p0Uviw

Friday, October 7, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Tabatha Hackett to the Kingsway Branch


Tabatha comes from a background of construction, marketing and graphic design. She just returned to Toronto after a year long sabbatical in Mazatlan Mexico and is refreshed and eager to start her new career in Real Estate. For years she has maintained a passion for real estate, renovating and interior design and is excited to be following her dreams.
With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Toronto and a Graphic Design certificate from Centennial College, she plans on using her education to assist her in working with clients and marketing her business.
Tabatha spent the earlier years of her career life working at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club as Marketing Coordinator. There she was Editor and Graphic Designer of the monthly magazine, produced marketing and promotional materials, as well as introduced new members to the Club.
Her last 8 years have been spent as an Office Manager running a successful construction company with her husband, focusing in commercial construction. As well, she has bought, sold, rented and property managed a variety of properties over the years.
Tabatha is thrilled to be joining Re/Max Professionals Inc. and is looking forward to the challenges and rewards of her new career.
Please welcome Tabatha to the Kingsway Branch. tabathahackett@gmail.com

Thursday, October 6, 2011

RE/MAX Professional Agents Believe In Giving Back!

Linday Henry and Kim Carreiro supporting their local Food Bank!

Words of thanks from Christine and Darryl Mitchell:

Kim & Linda;
Congrat’s on such an amazing and successful Food drive. This is certainly the true spirit of the word "thanksgiving." Giving back is a gift within itself and we are very proud of you both.
Christine & Darryl

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Congratulatons Team RE/MAX

On Sunday October 2nd 170,000 Canadians came together and raised over $30,000,000!
THANK YOU!
Team RE/MAX who participated in the Mississauga Run Site collected donations of over $4,150 online,
cash donations are still be tallied
Every dollar raised continues to support life-saving research and life-changing programs, bringing us one step closer to a future without breast cancer.
Even though it was a cold and dreary day Team RE/MAX all gathered at our
Mississauga Office and we walked over to the run site, University of Toronto
Mississauga, together. It was a great morning with lots of people and activities.
Next year we hope to see more agents join Team RE/MAX and hope to raise even more for this great cause.
IF you wish to donate to Team RE/MAX please see you office administrator by October 31st (only cash donations will be accepted at this time)

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Past KW Star: 'That Balloon's Tough Competition'



KUHNS TEAM
Brad Kuhns led the No. 1 team at his former Keller Williams office for seven years, competing against top RE/MAX agents in Florida's Brevard County.
"It's tough to compete with that big balloon," Kuhns says. So when his team felt their existing brokerage model getting "stale," they decided, "instead of trying to beat RE/MAX, we should join 'em."

In July, the team of five moved to RE/MAX Elite in Melbourne.

Kuhns says the Keller Williams model focuses more on agent count than production, and that's tough for highly productive agents to get behind. At RE/MAX, his team is enjoying new energy and the motivation of working alongside other top professionals who are focused on helping people buy and sell homes.

"Now we're with the No. 1 agents at the No. 1 real estate company," Kuhns says. "That can't be oversold."

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Great Article from Mark Weisleder to Pass to Your Clients

A year ago I wrote the most common mistake home buyers make is buying with their heart instead of their head — usually because they panic while involved in a stressful negotiation for which they are unprepared.
The result is that buyers pay more than they should, or are disappointed later when they find defects in the home or discover the neighbourhood isn’t quite what they thought.

http://www.moneyville.ca/article/1062274--six-ways-to-make-sure-you-buy-the-right-house

Thursday, September 29, 2011

“Terranet Home Price Index shows continued momentum in Canadian Real Estate Market Place”

Canadian home prices up 1.3% in July
Canadian home prices in July were up 1.3% from the previous month, according to the Teranet-National Bank National Composite House Price Index™. This rise took the index to a new high of 146.51 (June 2005 = 100). It was the fourth consecutive monthly increase exceeding 1%, and the eighth consecutive monthly increase after three straight monthly declines. In contrast to the three previous months, however, not all of the six metropolitan markets surveyed showed a gain. Prices rose 2.3% in Calgary, 1.7% in Toronto, 1.0% in Ottawa, 0.9% in Vancouver and 0.5% in Montreal, while declining 0.9% in Halifax.

http://www.housepriceindex.ca/admin.aspx?mode=voirHTML&nonews=158&qui=3791&langue=EN

Everything You Need to Know Regarding the Run for the Cure on October 2nd!

Create a future without Breast Cancer! Join Team RE/MAX on October 2nd!

http://www.runforthecure.com/site/PageServer?pagename=run_homepage_11&eblast=138

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

The NEW Advertising Guidelines and Checklist have arrived from RECO

Two of RECO's most popular publications have been redesigned to feature a variety of visual examples and provide clarity on the advertising issues that real estate professionals frequently ask about.
The new Advertising Guidelines are broken down into easy-to-follow segments that include clear illustrations of correct and incorrect advertising. The segments explain how to identify a registrant in various advertising formats, how to advertise promises, statements, indications of honours or awards, and how to avoid confusing terms.
The Advertising Checklist provides registrants with a basic framework to create advertising that meets the minimum requirements and avoids prohibited content.
Both documents are essential tools to help registrants understand and design advertisements that are compliant with REBBA 2002 and the Code of Ethics.
The Advertising Guidelines and Advertising Checklist can be found at www.reco.on.ca in the Industry Professional section, under the Registration menu.
For more information about the Advertising Guidelines please refer to the Q&A document posted on RECO's website or on MyWeb at https://myweb.reco.on.ca.
Click here to view the Advertising Guidelines

Monday, September 26, 2011

Home Ownership Matters - Email Your Candidates

Fact: Ontario home sales generate 80,000 jobs and $9.3 billion in consumer spending every year.

It’s time that Ontario politicians got the message: Home Ownership Matters. Help us deliver this important message to your local candidates running in the 2011 Ontario election.

It only takes two minutes: Get started by filling out the form below. Your information will then appear in a pre-written letter to candidates running in your riding. Once you’ve reviewed the letter click ‘Submit’ to send it to your local candidates.

More:
http://e-activist.com/ea-action/action?ea.client.id=1702&ea.campaign.id=11883

Sunday, September 25, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Natalie Rajewski to the Kingsway Branch

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Natalie Rajewski to the Kingsway Branch
Natalie left real estate and went on to spend over 25 years building her own natural skin care franchise brands both in both Canada and Internationally. She developed emerging markets in Russia during the fall of the communist years. She transformed old communist style of retail service to high western standards by which some the largest state run department stores still use her operating manuals. She accompanied Canadian Ministers on international trade missions and lectured international business students at Queens University, York University and Ryerson. She was a nominee for the Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of Year Awards in 1993.
She is looking forward to forging strong relationships with real estate investors and home owners and help them achieve the best possible results with their real estate needs.
Natalie has joined Rose Kutzko and her team – she can be reached at natalie@thepropertyteam.com

Friday, September 23, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Angy Veysey to the Kingsway Branch

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Angy Veysey to the Kingsway Branch
Angy completed high school and university in Kingston Ontario, after emigrating from South Wales in 1974. Upon graduation she moved to Vancouver to embark on a lengthy career in the airline industry, as a flight attendant and then customer service director. In this last position, her responsibilities included organizing staff, resolving customer complaints and ensuring a positive customer experience. Angy frequently experienced challenging situations, but consistently maintained a positive outlook due to a true appreciation and enjoyment of the people she came into contact with.
Due to the fact that Angy grew up in a family that frequently bought, renovated and sold homes, she became interested in the real estate market at a young age. This interest, combined with her experience in customer service is what led her to pursue a career as a real estate salesperson. She is looking forward to demonstrating a high level of professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm in her new career at Re/max.
Angy currently lives in Etobicoke with her 9 year old son, Joshua, and enjoys gardening, renovating, reading real estate ads, coffee and being a hockey/soccer mom.
Please welcome Angy her email is homes@angyveysey.com

Thursday, September 22, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Ashley Fitzgerald to the Kingsway Branch

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Ashley Fitzgerald to the Kingsway Branch.
Ashley attended Humber in the Paralegal Studies Program and graduated with an Honours Bachelors Degree in Applied Arts (Paralegal Studies).
After graduating, Ashley applied to write her Paralegal Licensing exam through the Law Society of Upper Canada and obtained same on the first shot. She is a licensed Paralegal with the Law Society.
Ashley is no stranger to RE/MAX Professionals (Kingsway Branch), as she worked full-time for our in-house solicitor for close to 4 years. She always had an interest in real estate and when she worked in the field of real estate law and closely to the world of real estate in our Brokerage, she found her passion and decided where she needed to be.
Ashley has worked closely with all the agents and staff at RE/MAX Professionals, over the past 4 years and gained very close relationships with many. Of course when it came to her choice for an employing Brokerage her choice was very easy to make.
Ashley was approached by Rose Kutzko, who she looked up to and spoke very highly of and was asked to be part of her team. Ashley could not be happier about her new path. She is looking forward to a happy and successful real estate career with RE/MAX Professionals and being a member of Rose Kutzko’s team. “The property Team”
Ashley can be reached at Ashley@thepropertyteam.com

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Chris Krzemien

Chris Krzemien had his start in Real Estate back in 2005. He enjoyed a successful career selling condos and lofts in the downtown core. Chris first started as an independent sales representative and later worked as a buyers agent under Jonathan Ferrier. Chris all the while had been mentored by Richard Robbins Intl. which gave him the tools and confidence he needed to be at the top of his game. After falling in love with staging and design, Chris changed careers and worked in the film industry as a set dresser and on-set props master. Chris was approached by his former Manager, Darryl Mitchell whom he had worked with to try his hand again in a real estate career. Chris, now happy to be back, is looking forward to using his knowledge of Real Estate Sales and his passion for staging and design to propel him into his greatest years yet!
Chris can be reached at ckrzemien@gmail.com or at the office 416-232-9000.


Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Record prices reported for Ontario farmland as demand and commodities surge, says RE/MAX

Sep. 13, 2011

Serious inventory shortage characterizes the market

Rising agricultural commodity values and tight inventory levels have seriously contributed to a significant upswing in the price of Ontario farmland in 2011, according to a report released by RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada.

The RE/MAX Market Trends Report – Farm Edition 2011 found that shortages exist in the vast majority of centres studied, with pent-up demand fuelling unprecedented momentum virtually across the province. Upward pressure on acreage values has been consistent as a result.

Read More:
http://remax-oa.ca/media-newsroom/article/68/

Monday, September 19, 2011

RE/MAX Fall Connect- Will You Be There?

How to Make Sure You Don’t Miss Out On The Next Great RE/MAX Ontario Event.
Almost every month RE/MAX Ontario has something going on for their REALTORS, to make sure you don’t miss out on the next great event make sure you check out RE/MAX Ontario’s REALTOR designated website: www.bestagent.ca
As soon as you log in to the BestAgent website you will be provided with an upcoming events calendar, make sure you take a look at it and register yourself for any events that interest you.
Have You Sign Up For the RE/MAX Fall Connect Yet?
Description: http://www.remaxevents.ca/Logos/2FallConnect.jpgTuesday September 27th – Wednesday September 28th, 2011| 9:00am
Toronto Congress Centre
650 Dixon Road Toronto
The RE/MAX Fall Connect is a COMPLEMENTARY event hosted by RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada during the fall each year. Learn about the latest and greatest information, tools for business and earn C.E credits.
VISIT THE 2011 FALL CONNECT WEBSITE to register for the event and see a complete agenda and speakers list.
LOOKING TO EARN 6 C.E. CREDITS
On Tuesday September 27th there are two 3 hour credit courses for you to participate in, there is a charge of $10 per course to cover the cost of the workbook.
**If you are having trouble registering yourself for this event please contact your office administrator for assistance.

Friday, September 16, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals 4th Annual Golf Tournament Hilites

Some highlights of the tournament:
· Winning Team: John Alexander, John Ward, Rick Tobiassen and Fred Loeffel
· Longest Drive Ladies: Rachel Morgan (Erindale Office)
· Longest Drive Men’s: Jack Yull (Erindale Office)
· Closest to the Pin Ladies: Mark Twynham
· Closest to the Pin Men’s: Lynn Maxwell
· Most Honest Foursome: Paul Hannan, Vanida Hannan, Claudia Vogel and Joe Ponte (Erindale Office)
· Best Dressed: Rita Moore (Kingsway Office)
· Winner of the Putting Contest (32” TV) after a two round playoff: Don Smith (Erindale Office)
· Grand prize winner of a Golf Lesson with a Pro at St. Georges was Werner Schwartz
· Winner of our raffle draw for Maple Leaf Tickets was Gary Kofoed of AMJ Campbell Van Lines
A special thank you to Bonnie Miniaci and Happy Marwaha for your tremendous help yesterday selling raffle tickets!
Thank you again to our Golf Committee (Leon Martysiewicz, Rick Gavey, Sue Treleaven, Dorothy Lazzari, Jack Yull, Curt Cavanagh and Jill Merry); you all did an awesome job in making this tournament so successful.
Hope to see everyone out again next year and I hope to see some that didn’t attend this year join us next year for our 5th Annual Golf Tournament.

Monday, September 12, 2011

GTA Realtors Report August Resale Housing Market Figures

http://www.torontorealestateboard.com/market_news/release_market_updates/news.htm

September 7, 2011 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 7,542 sales through the TorontoMLS® system in August - a 24 per cent increase over 6,083 sales in August 2010. New listings, at 12,509, were up by 20 per cent compared to August 2010. Market conditions remained tight as sales growth outstripped growth in new listings.

Friday, September 9, 2011

RE/MAX Young Professionals Enjoying A Night On The Town During TIFF

RE/MAX Young Professionals out on the town during TIFF. Just another reason more Agents choose RE/MAX Professionals! Learn more about us at http://www.remaxprofessionals.ca/

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Join Team RE/MAX and help find a cure for breast cancer!

Run for the Cure is a day of hope! Join Team RE/MAX and help find a cure for breast cancer! October 2nd is a day where lives will be changed, come be a part of it. RE/MAX has been contributing for the past eight years and we encourage you to join Team RE/MAX to help create a life without breast cancer today. Join us today by visiting: http://www.runforthecure.com/site/TR?company_id=1901&pg=natl_co_teams

http://www.runforthecure.com/site/TR?company_id=1901&pg=natl_co_teams

Saturday, September 3, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Joseph Carlisle to the East Mall Office


Joseph Carlisle comes to Remax Professionals after starting his real estate career 4 years ago with Coldwell Banker Terrequity. Before becoming a Realtor, Joseph was the first employee to be hired as a Sales Representative to open Sleep Country Canada’s expansion into Ontario in 1996.  Joseph brings with him over 25 years of sales, marketing, customer service and negotiation experience.

Joseph’s father was his greatest mentor and taught him the best lesson about customer service and life; he said “Joey, if you treat people right, you will have friends and clients for life”.

Joseph lives in Longbranch with his partner Lisa and has two children, Victoria (Tori) 19 and Alex 17. Joseph enjoys 10 pin bowling, fishing, and social media.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

New Housing Report

AUGUST 2011

Canadian home prices up 1.7% in June

Canadian home prices in June were up 1.7% from the previous month, according to the Teranet-National Bank National Composite House Price Index™. This rise took the index to a new high of 144.27 (June 2005 = 100). It was the third consecutive monthly increase exceeding 1% and the largest rise since August 2009. It was also the seventh consecutive monthly increase, coming after three straight monthly declines. As in April and May, prices were up in all six of the metropolitan markets surveyed. What is new is that in all six markets the June monthly rise was at least 1%, a first since April 2005. It was 2.0% in Toronto, 1.7% in Vancouver and Ottawa, 1.6% in Calgary, 1.1% in Montreal and 1.0% in Halifax. For Vancouver it was the ninth consecutive gain, the longest run of monthly rises among the markets covered. For five of the six metropolitan areas the indexes were at all-time highs. The Calgary index is still 10.9% off the all-time high of August 2007 and 3.1% off the pre-correction peak of August 2010.

http://bit.ly/oH3OQe

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Thursday, August 25, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Natalia Skoko


Prior to joining RE/MAX, Natalia held the position of Marketing Manager at an Asset Management company. In this role, she was responsible for strategic marketing, brand development, leasing and customer service as well as acquisition and disposition of assets.
As she was exposed to a wide range of real estate transactions she developed a passion for the industry and decided to embark on a new career path which would allow her to apply her proven skills to her clients.
Natalia can be reached at nataliaskoko@yahoo.com
or at 416-877-7556.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

100 Productivity Apps For Real Estate Professionals

Going mobile has never been so easy.
This report includes a series of top 10 lists featuring a range of popular apps that real estate professionals may find useful in boosting their productivity or efficiency as they build up their business.
The apps featured in this report are based on searches of keywords and phrases at apps-ranking site TopAppCharts.com. The app lists include free and paid apps for iPhone and iPad devices.

http://www.linkedin.com/news?actionBar=&articleID=723815914&ids=0QcPAPe3kPczsIc3gNczwUcz8Tb3cMd30OejcOdOMMejkVdzgQczsId34Vdj4UcP8T&aag=true&freq=weekly&trk=eml-tod-b-ttle-44

Monday, August 22, 2011

Friday, August 19, 2011

New Federal Rules Relevant to Property Buyers

As of June 23, 2008, federal regulations intended to fight money laundering and terrorist financing create new obligations for REALTORS® to collect additional information from their clients.
Why?
Money laundering and terrorism are threats that should be taken seriously. With this in mind, governments across the world have taken action to help prevent it. Because criminals involved in this type of activity can use seemingly legal transactions to camouflage their true purpose, governments have taken steps to filter out legal activity from illegal activity.

http://www.torontorealestateboard.com/market_news/hot_consumer_topics/money_laundering.htm

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Angie Johnson to the East Mall Office


Angie Johnson has worked for the Canada Border Services Agency for the last 33 years. The CBSA values are integrity, respect and professionalism. She is committed to these values and will bring them to her real estate career.
Angie has strong communication and interpersonal skills and problem solving skills. She has a passion for helping others and a strong commitment to a standard of excellence.
Angie is focused on providing excellence in customer service whether her clients are buying or selling. She specializes in all aspects of residential real estate, and especially enjoys helping First Time Home Buyers and new Canadians with their real estate needs. Angie is very fortunate to have two family members Jeff and Liz Johnson currently in the real estate business. She will become a part of the Johnson Team with Re/max Professionals at the East Mall office.Jeff and Liz Johnson are well known for exceeding their client’s expectations. With over 19 years of real estate experience between them, they continue striving to provide the ultimate in personalized service, knowledge and professionalism. Jeff and Liz are equally skilled in listening to clients' needs and finding logical solutions. Angie is married to her husband Jack. They live in Etobicoke . They love to play a round of golf or enjoy family activities. Also in the area, live their family, Jeff and Liz their two grandsons --Dylan, 10 and Nicholas, 7 who are active in baseball and hockey. Angie can be reached at anjohnson@trebnet.com or at the office: 416-232-9000.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Cielito Maliksi

    
Before joining RE/MAX Professionals, Cielito celebrated over 15 years within the pharmaceutical industry, exceeding the expectations of customers with several companies whose mandate is, service excellence. Cielito facilitated the client’s requirements, from the product conception to launch.
 After a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry, Cielito embarks on a new career in real estate where she looks forward to achieving the same success. Cielito is passionate about the possibilities and the opportunity to provide the same quality of service to her clients.
 Cielito is proud to call the GTA community that she will service and currently lives in, home and are excited to have her part of RE/MAX Professionals Team.
 If you wish to welcome Cielito to our office she can be reached at 416.999.3821 or cielito.maliksi@rogers.com

Monday, August 15, 2011

The July Edition of Market Watch

GTA REALTORS® Report July Resale Housing Market Figures

Friday, August 12, 2011

RE/MAX Professionals Welcomes Kim Egerton to the Erindale Office

Kim Egerton, Broker with more than 22 years experience and an impressive real estate record has re-joined the Erindale office.
Throughout her career Kim has developed and implemented “First Time Buyers Programs” that have enabled her to assist thousands of consumers fulfill their real estate goals and dreams. Kim’s dedication and experience, along with a commitment to harness technological advances and create and implement unique programs that offer clients value and support, is an asset to our team. Kim has been recognized in the past with the RE/MAX Hall of Fame Award, as well as numerous other local and national rankings and has been a speaker and panelist at various national and international real estate venues, universities and real estate associations.
Kim understands the huge potential for foreign investment in the U.S. and RE/MAX’s ability to help facilitate this unique, once in a lifetime opportunity for RE/MAX clients and realtors. Over the next few months Kim, along with RE/MAX Professionals Inc. will be rolling out a U.S. Buyers Program to assist our realtors with helping their local clients acquire U.S. property. This systematic program will enable our realtors to offer additional service and value to their clients while at the same time have the potential to create an additional revenue source for your business.
Please extend a warm welcome to Kim either by email at kimegerton@me.com; phone 905-270-8840 x 321 or in person in her office on the second floor.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

RE/MAX Ranks Highest in Customer Satisfaction for both Buyers and Sellers!

NOTE: This special posting reflects an email Dave Liniger sent to all U.S. Associates on Wednesday, July 27:
I have extremely exciting news to share with you!

J.D. Power and Associates announced today that RE/MAX ranks highest in customer satisfaction, for both
buyers and sellers, in its 2011 residential real estate survey.

That's right – we've earned the highest level of appreciation from BOTH groups of consumers, which is a remarkable statement about the Outstanding Agents in our organization.


Follow the Link to read more!
https://www.remax.net/News/blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?List=76c3e117%2D20f3%2D4483%2Db0c5%2Dbf2c2b81d554&ID=44

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Get More Great Training With RE/MAX - Ask us How!

Find out how to get the appraisal numbers you need!

Monday, August 1, 2011

More Great Training From RE/MAX

Find out how to bring out the best of your people at Fall Connect.

Friday, July 29, 2011

The Eletronic Edition of RECOnnect

This Electronic Version of RECOnnect is full of great articles to forward to your clients including a very good article about safegaurding valuables during an openhouse.

http://www.reco.on.ca/publicdocs/ElectronicNewsletters/Summer2011/Uniflip/index.html

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Canadian Home Prices up1.3% in May

Canadian home prices up 1.3% in May
Canadian home prices in May were up 1.3% from the previous month, according to the Teranet-National Bank National Composite House Price Index™. This rise took the index to a new high of 142.27 (June 2005 = 100). It was the second consecutive monthly increase exceeding 1% and the largest since July 2010. It was also the sixth consecutive monthly rise, coming after three straight monthly declines. As in April, prices were up in all six of the metropolitan markets surveyed. The May gain was 1.6% in Vancouver and Toronto, 0.7% in Montreal, 0.6% in Calgary, 0.5% in Ottawa and 0.1% in Halifax. For Vancouver it was the eighth consecutive monthly increase. The Toronto index topped its recent peak of July 2010. Calgary prices, meanwhile, are still 4.6% below their previous peak. The index for Ottawa was only fractionally away from its August 2010 peak. Indexes for the other three markets passed their respective peaks some time ago in the recovery from the correction of late last year.

Teranet – National Bank National Composite House Price Index™

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Another Agent Joins RE/MAX and Finds Success! Read Brian Melville's Story!

Take your business to the next level - find out what's happening at RE/MAX Professionals!

Monday, July 25, 2011

Interesting Information for Boaters!

Those who boat between the US and Canada (or want to inform clients that do)
should note this Fact Sheet.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

How will this new Anti-Spam regulation affect us?

Industry Canada has now posted its anti-spam regulations. They deal with
personal and family relationship within the Act and conditions for use of
consent.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Those who boat between the US and Canada (or want to inform clients that do)

Those who boat between the US and Canada (or want to inform clients that do) should have a look at the attached link.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Demand for luxury homes intensifies amid rising Canadian and global wealth

Mississauga, ON (May 18, 2011) - Improved financial standing among high net worth individuals is the major factor driving strong sales activity at the top end of Canadian housing markets, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.


RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada and RE/MAX of Western Canada examined 12 major centres from coast-to-coast and found that luxury sales have surged in close to two-thirds of housing markets between January 1 and April 30 of this year, compared to the same period in 2010. Leading in terms of percentage increases over the four-month period were Greater Vancouver (118 per cent) - where foreign investment has also played a major role - Ottawa (59 per cent), Calgary (51 per cent), Halifax-Dartmouth (27 per cent), Winnipeg (24 per cent), Hamilton-Burlington (13 per cent) and Greater Toronto (nine per cent). Six of the seven major cities - with the exception of Calgary - are poised to set new records in top-end activity by year-end. Several are just short of peak levels reported in 2010, such as Victoria, Regina, and London-St. Thomas.

Monday, May 9, 2011

Urbanation states Condo market still strong!

CONTACT: Vicki Griffiths


Vicbar Marketing Limited

416-510-0073

vgriffiths@vicbarmarketing.com

URBANATION PROJECTS BUOYANT FIRST QUARTER

IS PRELUDE TO STRONGER SECOND QUARTER IN

CONDO SALES

Q1 – 2011 also marks a significant 7,550 construction starts with record

37,706 suites under construction in Toronto CMA

TORONTO – May 9, 2011: Urbanation Inc., the leading source of information and

analysis on the Toronto condominium market since 1981, today released its Q1-2011

market overview.

The Toronto CMA new condominium market kicked off 2011with a bang, with 5,201

sales. That was just 214 sales shy of the record first quarter result from 2010. The resale

market also showed a strong start in Q1, with 3,952 units sold, just 338 fewer than last

year’s first quarter record of 4,290.

“These near record sales in the first quarter of 2011 mark a prelude to an even more

vibrant second quarter,” says Ben Myers, Urbanation Executive Vice President and

Editor.

The most noteworthy result in the market was the 7,550 construction starts in the first

quarter, while there are now a record number of suites under construction in the Toronto

CMA at 37,706. At the end of Q1-2011, over half of the 284 new condominium

apartment projects and 73,643 units were under construction. Just 17 percent of the new

condominium suites in the CMA were unsold (12,272 units) matching the record low set

in the first quarters of 2010 and 1986.

“This momentum will continue into the second quarter, when an estimated 45 new

condominium projects, representing 9,500 units, will launch,” says Myers. “That’s a

healthy increase over the just 23 new condominium towers launched in the second

quarter of 2010.”

Meanwhile, the 17 new projects that opened in Q1 sold 63 percent of their 3,768 total

units. That number far surpasses the average absorption rate for new projects in their

opening quarters between 2006 and 2010 (49 percent).

Prices also climbed. The average price per square foot of unsold product in the Toronto

CMA new condominium market in the first quarter increased 3 percent from Q4-2010,

and 7 percent annually, to $543 psf. Unsold index pricing was also up in the former City

of Toronto to $650 psf and the Downtown Core to $739 psf.

Prices in the resale market also edged up by 2 percent over Q4-2010 to $382 psf,

increasing the average resale index price in the Toronto CMA by the largest quarterly

margin since the fourth quarter of 2009. Resale index pricing in the former City of

Toronto was $509 psf with Downtown Core prices at $513 psf in Q1-2011.

Resale supply also declined, dropping far lower than the record 10,997 listings from one

year ago to 7,490 resale listings in Q1-2011.

“The major infusion of new units in the second quarter of this year should moderate

pricing increases, but Urbanation expects near record quarterly sales in Q2-2011” Myers

added, “and an elevated level of project registrations, will also keep resale pricing

increases temperate”.

ABOUT URBANATION

Urbanation is Canada’s leading condominium market research company. Since 1981,

Urbanation has analyzed the Toronto condominium market, publishing the “industry

bible” – Urbanation’s Condominium Market Survey. This quarterly report tracks new,

resale and future condominium projects. Urbanation also provides the development

community with essential consulting services, which include site and topic specific

market studies and surveys.

www.urbanation.ca

www.twitter.com/urbanation

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Home prices up 0.1% in February

Canadian home prices in February edged up 0.1% from the previous month, according to the Teranet-National Bank National Composite House Price Index™. It was the third consecutive monthly rise, following on three consecutive monthly declines. The slightness of the increase can be laid to declines in three of the six metropolitan markets surveyed. Prices were up 0.3% from the month before in Vancouver and 0.5% in Montreal and Ottawa. The Ottawa rise broke a run of five straight monthly declines. On the downside, prices fell 0.1% in Toronto, 0.4% in Halifax and 0.5% in Calgary.The 12-month gain in the composite index slowed to 3.8% in February, the eighth consecutive month of deceleration. The largest rises from a year earlier were in the three easternmost cities - 6.9% in Montreal and Ottawa, 7.6% in Halifax. It remains to be seen whether the Halifax result is biased due to the small number of transactions normally recorded in that market between December and February. In Toronto the 12-month increase was 3.4%, in Vancouver 3.5%. Calgary prices were down 3.4% from a year earlier, for a fifth consecutive month of 12-month deflation.
Data for March from the Canadian Real Estate Association show generally balanced conditions in major urban markets. In the two cities where homes are most expensive, Vancouver and Toronto, sales may have been brought forward by the January announcement that the maximum amortization period for an insured mortgage would be reduced to 30 years effective March 18.The Teranet–National Bank House Price Index™ is estimated by tracking observed or registered home prices over time using data collected from public land registries. All dwellings that have been sold at least twice are considered in the calculation of the index. This is known as the repeat sales method; a complete description of the method is given at http://www.housepriceindex.ca/
The Teranet–National Bank House Price Index™ is an independently developed representation of average home price changes in six metropolitan areas: Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Montreal and Halifax. The national composite index is the weighted average of the six metropolitan areas. The weights are based on aggregate value of dwellings as retrieved from the 2006 Statistics Canada Census. According to that census1, the aggregate value of occupied dwellings in the metropolitan areas covered by the indices was $1.168 trillion, or 53% of the Canadian aggregate value of $2.207 trillion.
All indices have a base value of 100 in June 2005. For example, an index value of 130 means that home prices have increased 30% since June 2005.

Monday, April 25, 2011

Do you need an agent for a bidding war?

April 22, 2011


Mark Weisleder

More people are trying to sell their homes by themselves, either through sale by owner systems or by using an agent to post their information onto the MLS system for a fee and then not using the agent for anything else. One question is whether these private sellers can take advantage of the many bidding wars, especially in the Toronto area, that are diving selling prices above asking. Private sellers wonder whether they can create the same atmosphere. I think the answer is no.
I suspect that sellers who successfully sold their home after a bidding war were represented by a real estate agent. Here’s why:
1.Agents have marketing strategies, designed to create excitement about a property. For example, a property may be advertised, but no offers considered until after a specific date, to let as people as possible see the home. This recently occurred at a home for sale at 30 Yorkshire Rd., in Toronto.
The property was listed for sale by Brenda Seymour of Sutton Group Heritage Realty on April 7, 2011. The offer price was $325,000. On the MLS system it said: “Offers gratefully accepted at 7 pm on April 11, 2011. Please register all offers by 5 pm. Deposit certified cheque/Bank Draft requested.
On April 11, 13 offers were received and the property sold that night for $360,000. Private sellers have a very difficult time creating this type of marketing demand.
2.Many agents will recommend home staging, to make the home appeal to the widest number of potential buyers. Private sellers often mistakenly believe that their own personal style and taste is enough.
3.When an agent handles the bidding, they have strict confidentiality requirements. No offer price can be shared with other buyers. There is an equal chance for buyers to succeed. A private seller does not have this obligation. They can show a buyer’s offer to anyone else. As a result, buyers are very wary of competing on this type of property.
4.An agent will often recommend that the seller sign a disclosure statement about the condition of the property or do a pre-listing home inspection and make the report available to interested buyers. This demonstrates integrity and assists in putting the buyers’ mind at ease that they will not discover problems with the home after closing. Private sellers are often told by their lawyers that they should not sign any type of disclosure statement about the condition of their properties as it might entangle them in litigation. What the lawyers don’t explain is that when you make no disclosure, buyers will not trust the seller and thus either shy away from the property or more importantly, offer less money. In addition, they will be hesitant to participate in any bidding war.
When you sell by yourself, you may in fact save money on real estate commission. Yet if your net price is less than what you could have received if the property was properly marketed, then is this really a good deal for you? What many sellers have always known is that when you use the right agent to sell your property, your chances of obtaining more money is much higher.
If you have sold a property by yourself and were successful in selling your property for over the asking price through a bidding war, I would like to hear from you and find out how you did it.
Also read:
Buying a home: 10 things to know
Is selling you home by yourself a good idea.
Mark Weisleder is a lawyer, author and speaker to the real estate industry. If you have any questions about real estate issues, email mark at mark@markweisleder.com