Did you know that Ottawa has again been rated the No. 1 place to live in Canada. Also of note are Kingston #3, Halifax #4, Oshawa #22, Saskatoon #30 and Victoria suprisingly, #35. Way to go Ottawa!
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on April 16, 2012
There is a tax credit of up to $750 on qualifying homes for first time home buyers. This helps with the overall costs of buying a home. Be sure to ask your realtor about this.
Also, when purchasing a more accessible or functional home there is a tax benefit for homeowneres who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). This also falls under the First-time Home Purchasers ...
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on March 7, 2012
One can purchase a new RRSP for the 2011 tax year up until Feb. 29th. Did you also know that first time buyers can use their RRSP toward the downpayment of their new home. Be sure to get the facts and if you need a good mortgage broker to help you work out the figures, I will be happy to recommend one.
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on January 25, 2012
How to decorate the old fashioned way. If you are lucky enough to have a staircase or mantel, make the most of them. Other ways of introducing the Christmas spirit is with mirrors and tops of windows. Fresh cut cedars along with assorted garland and a few bobbles truly gives an elegant effect.
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on December 3, 2011
Yesterday, was a very important training day to show realtors how we can stay in touch and uptodate in the fast moving real estate world. Our trainer, Darren Villeneuve, gave highlights and showed us the new innovative program of Client Connect. I will be happy to use this program for my own clients and friends.
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on November 30, 2011
Whether you will be putting your house on the market next Spring or just want it to feel like a new home again, here are a few simple inexpensive tips for you to explore:
1. Repair all the little items that need some attention and when it does come time to sell, it will pass the potential buyers expectations and you will prevent any decrease in value at the same time.
2. Make sure the exterior ...
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on November 18, 2011
Here are the new rates:
1 year closed = 3.6% up .10%
2 year closed = 3.95% up .10%
3 year closed = 4.45% up .15%
4 year closed = 5.14% up .15%
5 year closed = 5.54% up .15%
If you are serious about buying a new home, get your pre-approval done now. The lowest rate is good for 120 days. Don't be left out!
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on July 6, 2011
Well, it now official we have just sprung into Summer - June 21st being the first day of summer and the longest day of the year.
How about getting together with a couple of your neighbours and plan a Saturday Garage Day. It is a perfect way to clean out the garage and basement with items that you are keeping "just in case" they are needed. You can usually get free or very reasonable rates ...
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on June 24, 2011
Finally the gas prices are slipping in the other directions. I did find out from this handy website - ottawagasprices.com/GasPriceSearch.aspx where to fill up.
I was reading the blogs from the online newsletter - Ottawa Start a cute article re Petro Canada adding two more options for payment A - organ donations removed on the spot and B- dental gold work removed on the spot. Also ...
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on May 18, 2011
Today, I am setting out to the advance pool in my neighbourhood to vote. Advance pools are open today and Monday May 1st from noon to 8:00 p.m.Let's all exercise our rights by voting and hopefully, getting a majority government which would prevent us going back to the polls and spending millions of our tax $'s.
Posted by Helen Lafontaine
on April 23, 2011