Markets in Canada and the U.S. rebounded in 2009 from a disastrous start to the year as investors warmed to signs that the recovering economy would boost profits? The TSX ended with a gain of more than 30% on the year. While this is positive news for our economy, it’s still difficult to predict the financial success of many investment opportunities. Real estate however, continues ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on January 5, 2010
Did you know that while condos remain an affordable option for many first time home buyers or empty nesters looking to downsize, the lower price doesn't always tell the whole story. The condo fees that vary according to age, size and location of the condo, can sometimes be up to 50% of the cost of your monthly mortgage. Always check with your REALTOR® and lawyer to find out what amenities, ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on December 2, 2009
There is no better time to get in the market then now! This is something you may hear repeated often but it definetly rings true today!
Consider the following: The dollar is at about .95US again, the stock market has survived the bad news coming out of Dubai and is once more pushing towards 12,000 points. Overnight lending rate by major banks is still hovering at all time lows and the ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on December 2, 2009
The house I just purchased is roughly 40 years old. Although I had the opportunity to thoroughly look at the home before deciding to buy it, the piece of mind that an experienced home inspector gave me is well worth it.
As a realtor, I'm trained to look at those items in a home that a buyer might otherwise overlook. But it's hard to spot everything when caught up in the excitement, ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on November 8, 2009
Did you know, that this stage is where a prudent realtor will communicate with you on a regular basis to avoid surprises. What happens if the final walkthrough reveals some concerns. Are you prepared for what's on the statement of adjustments? There are a number of issues that can arise at this stage of the real estate transaction, and I ensure that you have full representation ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on November 1, 2009
Financing Assistance is just another service that I provide to all my clients. This is your home, and it's kind of a big deal. Know how and where to get a mortgage (banks are just one source), and what financial incentives and assistance is available to you. ie. tax credits, rebates, RRSP. What sort of costs you can expect at closing? It's stuff that can put money in your pocket and ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on October 1, 2009
This is a fantastic story that I must share with you, and I couldn't believe it when I heard it from my taxi driver on Sept 16th. I was sharing with him my experience of selling my own home. And it reminded me of a mentor of mine, who said every realtor should have to sell his/her own home every 5 years just to experience the process and have empathy for our own clients. He was only ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on October 1, 2009
Did you know that negotiation is a service I provide, that if utilized properly can give you the competitive edge? It can amount to thousands of dollars in your pocket. When presenting offers, I often pick up crucial information that might otherwise be never revealed through email and fax. A seller for example who doesn't want to miss out on the 'other' house, or a causal remark that ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on August 31, 2009
Having to call someone and let them know the house they wanted is no longer available is always tough to do. I can empathize with them, having seen it first hand way too many times. Unfortunately the market we’re in dictates that if you want the house, you have to put your best foot forward. And you can’t hesitate for even a day, because someone else could beat you to ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on August 31, 2009
I was recently approached by a friend, who required some direction on the purchase of his first condo. 'Michael' had visited the showrooms of a nearby developer and had received some encouraging news about "some really cheap pre-construction prices". But as a prudent purchaser faced with one of his biggest investments, Michael wrote to me asking for some advice on what questions he needs ...
Posted by Szabolcs Pall
on August 5, 2009