The champagne has popped (or the non-alcoholic bubbly which there are so many delicious options to choose from these days,) the resolutions have been made and we are hopefully all looking forward to the new year with a positive outlook. I took a few minutes and looked back at my blogs over the past year and here are some of the most read and the ones I felt really connected with local Buyers, Sellers and fence sitters. Here is my “best of” list. 

• When Developers are not to Blame for High House Prices.

This blog broke down the costs different levels of government apply for new homes to be built. P.S. In Ontario taxes are about 36%

• A Five Year View of Real Estate in Durham Region.

This blog looked at how much the “return on investment” was for a downpayment over the past 5 years and looking forward to predict where values may be. P.S. Detached homes in Oshawa may be $1,290,000 in 2029.

• Parents Helping Kids Buy Homes Today.

This blog looked at creative ways parents who are homeowners can use their equity to help their children buy their first homes. 

• Should You Consider a Power of Sale Property. 

This blog weighs the pros and cons of purchasing a “bank owned property.” They are not always the good deals Buyers think they are. 

• Home Inspections – Yay or Nay?

We looked at the value of home inspections and identified if a Buyer is protected by having an inspection done.

• 5 Hacks on Winning in a Real Estate Bidding War.

It looks like 2025 will be a year where we see bidding contests happening on a regular basis. This blog is worth a re-read packed with wisdom on how to be a successful Buyer. 

• How to Downsize Your Home and Upsize Your Income.

This blog came from a chat with a client who was retiring and looking for options. Sometimes selling and downsizing makes sense…. And you may even end up with a condo in Florida.

• Real Estate Hacks – Increasing Value by $50,000.

Tips on how to increase the value of your home…. Even if you have no interest in selling. 

• A Conversation About Renting vs. Owning.

A three minute read about why owning or renting may be your best option. 

• Mortgage Renewal. Your Decision Could be Worth Thousands. 

Some valuable advice when renewal time comes. (I took my own advice having a mortgage renewing in December 2024.)

One of my goals for 2025 is to continue to provide relevant, local information to people in Durham Region. If there are any topics you would like covered reach out, I am happy to help. 

Also, if you have any questions better handled by a phone call or a quick visit I am always available.

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