Welcome to Gary Crowder's TorontoMoves monthly
e-newsletter with real estate insights, tips for homeowners and updates on what’s happening around Toronto.
November 2006
Gary’s Notes for November
Buyers more in the know than ever.
 
It’s an interesting time in Toronto real estate. The market remains strong and steady. Some neighbourhoods are leveling off in prices and activity, while other are emerging, following natural cycles. The most noticeable change is in the level of discernment among buyers. Buyers are becoming clearer about what they want, less willing to buy a house that has had an obvious quick “fix” for selling, and they are definitely choosing more and more to work with a realtor from the start, which is very smart. The new savvy buyer is raising the bar for people selling their houses, who are now having to prepare, position and price their house accordingly. This is good for everyone, as decisions on both sides are made with greater thought and care than ever before. It also makes my professional role more valuable than ever in helping people to buy and sell exceptionally well.
 
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about buying or selling a house or condo, call me. It’s never too early to consider your options, especially in this world of well-prepared buyers!.
 
October Running Strong

TORONTO, October 18, 2006 -- In the first half of October, Toronto Area housing activity kept pace with mid-October results from a year ago, Toronto Real Estate Board President Dorothy Mason announced today.

“There were 3,007 sales reported to mid-month, essentially on par with the 3,012 sales reported during the same period in 2005,” Mrs. Mason said. “Adding to this strong result is the fact that transactions are up three per cent from the 2,913 recorded during the first part of September which is a good sign for the stability of the autumn market.”

In Northeast Scarborough (E11), the number of transactions to mid-month jumped 24 per cent compared to the same timeframe a year ago.

Rexdale (W10), in Toronto’s west end, saw a significant increase in condominium activity which helped to push overall sales up 59 per cent compared to mid-October 2005.

Condominiums were also the driving force behind a 43 per cent increase in overall mid-month sales in Toronto’s central downtown core (C01).

North of the city, Thornhill’s western half (N02) showed an overall increase in transactions of 48 per cent compared to the midpoint of last October, with detached homes being the most popular type.Meanwhile, the average price rose to $353,677, up six per cent over the $335,208 recorded to the middle of September. This figure is also three per cent higher than the $341,865 recorded during the first part of October last year.

Inventory stands at 25,839 listings, up two per cent over mid-September. The average number of days on the market for a home is 35.

Jason Mercer, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for the GTA, said, “Steady demand for resale homes has kept average prices rising above inflation, albeit at a lower annual rate, as buyers have benefited from increased choice in the marketplace.”

TREB’s President agreed that market conditions are favourable for consumers.

“It’s a great combination to have solid activity, good price growth and an increased level of inventory to choose from,” Mrs. Mason said. “There has never been a better time to move up to your dream home or get in the market for the first time.”
 
 
(Source: The Toronto Real Estate Board)
 
 
Last call for outdoor maintenance.
 
November is pretty much the last chance for outdoor chores and maintenance. Check your list and be sure to look after anything that needs to be done before winter. Here are a few last-minute reminders, just in case:
 
  • Turn off the outside water and store your garden hose. If needed, give trees and shrubs one last good watering before you pack up.
  • Bring in outdoor furniture or, if you don’t have storage space, be sure it is covered securely.
  • Bring in any decorative garden items, such as ceramic planters, that are at risk of cracking if left out over the winter.
  • If you haven’t already, book an appointment to have your furnace cleaned and inspected. Direct Energy has a good furnace maintenance package if you’re not already signed up.
  • If it has been a while since it was done, have your eavestrough cleaned and checked.
  • Protect and wrap plants and shrubs as needed.
  • If we get a few good dry days, you may be able to squeeze in some last outdoor painting.
 
 
Ideas for Easy Interior Improvements
 
I often hear 'Why didn't we do that before we were getting ready to sell - it looks so much better!". Sometimes very simple, relatively inexpensive changes can make a big difference to a home. And if you're not selling, you can enjoy the luxury of  time to look around at all the choices, and find things you really like.  Here are some of my favourite easy updates - of course what may apply to your home will vary with the age and level of past improvements:
  • Updating light fixtures can have a huge impact on the overall look of a room. Look in each room of your house, including hallways, to see any of your light fixtures could do with a fresh upgraded look. Light fixtures vary substantially in style, quality and price, so take your time and look around.
  • Painting is the fastest and most cost-effective way to update a room, so if you have a space in mind, pick a colour and get rolling! Refreshing the trim paint at the same time also works wonders.
  • Reducing furniture can make a room seem more spacious and refined. Look to see if you have any rooms that could benefit from a piece or two of furniture being removed.
  • Outdated or "tired" kitchen or bathroom cabinets can often be transformed with fresh paint colour and new hardware. If you do this, be sure to prepare the cupboard doors properly before painting. Also, there is a wide range of hardware styles and prices available, so be sure to check out a few different sources.
  • Wall decor transforms a house, and nothing more than original art, which in Toronto is more affordable than you might think. As you can, go to art shows and sales and build your personal art collection. Begin with what you can manage, and develop your own tastes. And don't be shy about big pieces - the right ones can look amazing.

Enjoy early shopping - or baking - with a 15% discount at Kitchen Roots!
 
Kitchen Roots at 696 Danforth Avenue (just east of Pape) will give you a 15% discount off of regular priced merchandise for the month of November. To receive the discount, just print out this page, and take it with you. Whether you want to treat yourself or someone else to a new serving dish, salad tongs, pepper grinder, frying pan or oven mitts – it's up to you. Note: there may be a few small exceptions - be sure to check when you go in.
 
November is a spectacular month for shows and special events as the city gears up for the holiday season. Why not have some fun while you adjust to the cooler temperatures?! Here’s just a tiny bit of what you can find in Toronto this month:
 
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair - November 3 -12
Exhibition Place
The country comes to the city. See barnyard animals, livestock and buy produce from Canada's farmlands. The "Royal" is the largest indoor combined agricultural, horticultural, canine and equestrian event in the world. Remember to use the FREE child admission coupon ($12 value!) in my 2006 calendar.    
 
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens – November 11
Air Canada Centre
It’s always an event when the Leafs take on the Habs! 

The Seasons Holiday Entertaining & Decor Show – November 17 -19
International Centre -- 6900 Airport Rd.
Looking for ideas and inspiration for the coming holidays? Exterior and interior Christmas decor, ornaments and tree trimming, gourmet food and beverages, experts to do it for you, tableware, linens and hundreds of unique gifts will be for sale at this show. From funky to formal, traditional to modern, there is something for everyone.
 
Santa Claus Parade – Sunday, November 19
Downtown Toronto
The Christmas season officially begins in Toronto with this grand parade through the downtown core. Marching bands, clowns, fantastic floats and musicians lead the way for Rudolf, Santa and Mrs. Claus. 
 
One of a Kind Show – November 23 - December 3
Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place -- 100 Princes' Blvd
The One of a Kind Show is Canada's finest craft show, bringing innovative artists, craftspeople, and designers together to share their unique creations with the rest of the world. With a proud focus on home-grown talent, this show brings together the best of Canada, for a personal shopping experience like no other.  
 
Lighting Celebration - Cavalcade of Lights - November 25
Nathan Phillips Square -- 100 Queen St. West
Join the celebration as the 40th annual Cavalcade of Lights sets Toronto aglow with a month-long calendar of spellbinding events, sparkling lighting displays and one-of-a-kind tour of Toronto's picturesque neighborhoods. The festive lighting of the Cavalcade of Lights display includes 100,000 lights, the city's official Christmas Tree, live music and fireworks. The winner of two 2003 International Special Events Society Esprit Awards and two International Festivals and Events Association Pinnacle Awards, Cavalcade of Lights is one of the nation's foremost festivals of light.
 
 In a[] ddition to these events there are hundreds of concerts, plays and other special events going on all around the city – get out enjoy all you can!    www.toronto.com 
 
 
Thank you for your referrals! 

Most of my new business contacts come through people like you! You have introduced me to your friends, neighbours, co-workers and families, and I thank you. It makes my work a pleasure. One easy way for you to make an introduction is through this newsletter. If you know someone who might enjoy receiving this newsletter, forward it, sign them up, or suggest they sign up directly – it takes just a few seconds at www.torontomoves.ca.
 
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This newsletter is for clients and friends of Gary Crowder. If you prefer not to receive future editions, please send a reply e-mail message with the word "Please Remove" in the subject line. For additional information, please contact garycrowder@torontomoves.ca
Gary Crowder
www.torontomoves.ca
(416) 486-5588
Re/Max Hallmark
Toronto, Ontario