REDISCOVER REAL ESTATE

Back to school for Sellers, Buyers and Investors?

School’s back, and if you’re thinking of selling, investing or refinancing in real estate this fall perhaps it’s time to hit the books!

Over the summer months, I have had the opportunity to chat with numerous people regarding the changing market, including stricter mortgage rules, condos versus freeholds and when is it really the ‘right time’ but buy or sell? I was really surprised to hear how many people are still making the basic mistake of selling, buying or investing in areas and projects without any local market, product knowledge or proper representation.

I have found that Buyers and Sellers either ‘jump into the market’ or ‘sit on the fence’ just because of second hand information from others or media headlines. It’s a huge mistake and I see this happening more often than not.

Take the hot Toronto market in the past decade for example.  Many investors bought into the condo market simply to get into the market and into areas where it was already saturated. The risks are far greater now than they were 10 years ago, and it takes longer to recover from a loss. A lack of understanding and knowledge of local markets has never been so costly to an investor.

Now, with rising interest rates and higher prices in certain markets, investors need to minimize risk more than ever and as much as possible. Avoiding simple mistakes in the decision making process can alleviate these risks.

Looking to sell / buy a condo or house? Need some professional advice? Want to know your real estate options?

I can help! Direct line: 416-219-6662

Global confidence in Canadian real estate soars!

Emerging markets, including India, China, Qatar and Chile, lead the pack of countries poised for real estate investment in the next 12 months, with Canada following closely in fifth spot, according to a new reading of global industry confidence. 

"Confidence is returning to the sector as credit availability and strong industry fundamentals create a more stable foundation for deal-making," says Krista Blaikie, EY's National Real Estate leader. "Companies that were focused on maintaining stability and operational efficiency are now shifting gears and looking ahead at new investment opportunities."

Overall, respondents' optimism is up considerably from 53% one year ago.

"Investors are looking beyond the developed world — with the exception of Canada — and focusing their investment strategies in emerging markets with immense growth potential," says Blaikie. "Canada, on the other hand, continues to attract the attention of investors searching for a stable political and economic environment not found in the Eurozone."

Those ready to transact in the year ahead are focused on smaller deals, with 64% of companies expecting the majority of deals to fall between US$51m and US$500m.

"Making the most of transaction opportunities, whether small or large, depends on a thorough understanding of the local market, regulatory environment and culture. Those that perform thorough due diligence and select the right partners will be best positioned for sustainable growth," says Blaikie.

Written by CREW online -Canadian Real Estate Wealth

Looking to sell or buy a condo? Need some professional advice? Want to know your real estate options?

How may I help you today? Direct line: 416-219-6662