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The Invidiata Blog |
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Join us on Facebook and Twitter! |
| Date Posted: August 5th, 2009 | Posted by: S. Invidiata |
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Facebook and Twitter are two new ways to stay in touch with The Invidiata Team.
These social networking sites have proven to be effective communication tools for quickly and easily sharing information. Sign up now to follow us and stay abreast of the latest Real Estate events and updates in Oakville, Burlington & surrounding areas.
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Introducing the Estate Residential Collection
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| Date Posted: July 15th, 2009 | Posted by: C. Invidiata |
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The Estate Residential service promises to deliver the ultimate in privacy and confidentiality for those buyers and sellers wishing to keep their Real Estate needs completely private. Your enquiry will be handled discretely by our qualified team members for this new service.
The Estate Residential Collection offers access to Estate Properties in excess of $5,000,000.
Selected properties have the consent of the sellers to be featured and advertised, and others are in the Private Collection, where only the price and general details are provided. As a buyer, this new service will protect your privacy and identity as well.
For further enquiries of our exciting collection of Estate Residential properties please contact Christopher Invidiata at 905.339.3444. Your enquiry will remain confidential.
Check out the Estate Residential Collection Here |
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2009 Real Estate Forum - April 1st, 2009 at Oakville Conference & Banquet Centre
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| Date Posted: Feb 24th, 2009 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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Register Now! |
In today’s complex real estate environment, you will need the services of a knowledgeable, experienced real estate professional to help navigate the storm. Understanding market conditions will be of paramount importance. Knowledge is power, and being well informed will help you make the best decisions possible. Mark your calendar for our 2009 Real Estate Forum, Wednesday, April 1st at the Oakville Conference & Banquet Centre. Christopher Invidiata will speak about the 2008 Market in Review, offer a forecast for the 2009/2010 market, as well as provide tips on building your investment/income property portfolio. Get the facts on today's market realities, and have your questions and concerns answered.
If you would like to attend our 2nd Annual Real Estate Forum click HERE |
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Buy Real Estate Now! |
| Date Posted: Feb 9th, 2009 | Posted by: S. Danio |
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Real estate is always a great investment, and now is the best time in years to buy. Previous real estate recessions had other elements which we do not have today such as: higher unemployment, higher inflation and higher interest rates. The market today is different.
As a result, there is a relatively short but incredible real estate buying window ahead of us, until the market turns around. With a real estate ‘buffet’ of attractively priced properties, incredibly low interest rates and an abundance of mortgage money for qualified buyers available, now is the time to move up, go bigger, buy a cottage, add to our real estate investment portfolio, or to begin one.
If cash is a problem, explore the possibility of using the equity from your existing home to allow you to take advantage of the real estate opportunities of the next few months. They are too good to let go by. |
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Open House Showcase of Homes - Sat. Jan 31st 2009 and Sun Feb 1st 2009 |
| Date Posted: January 27, 2009 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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This weekend (Saturday January 31st and Sunday February 1st), The Invidiata Team will be working with homeowners on our first Open House Showecase of Homes for 2009.
Eighteen gorgeous homes in total are featured on this month's showcase - four in North Oakville, on Saturday January 31st, and fourteen in South Oakville on Sunday February 1st. Discover exciting opportunities - NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY!
To have your home listed on next month's Open House Showcase of Homes, contact 905-339-3444.
Click HERE for map and showcase listings (PDF Viewer required, such as Adobe Acrobat. File size is approximately 5mb) |
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Real Estate: A Solid Investment and
Still a Great Time to Buy! |
| Date Posted: December 3rd, 2008 | Posted by: C. Invidiata |
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With the cost of borrowing at an historic low, lots of availability on the market, and positive job growth, it is a great time to buy. Mortgage rates are expected to be relatively stable throughout the remainder of the year, and posted mortgage rates will decrease slightly in the first half of 2009 as the cost of credit to financial institutions eases. In 2009, the number of new listings is expected to level off and the resale market will remain balanced, with prices growing in line with inflation. While positive, the forecasted growth rates are much more moderate than what was experienced on average over the past 10 years, including the 7% growth rate experienced in 2007. In 2009, job growth will remain positive, but the rate of growth will moderate to 1% from 1.8% in 2008 – still above the average for Ontario. It’s a great time to invest in the best properties in the best locations.
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| For a private consultation, please contact The Invidiata Team, 905.339.3444. GTA statistical information provided by Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation, www.cmhc.ca |
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What's Happening to the Housing Market?
Part 4 of 4 |
| Date Posted: November 19th, 2008 | Posted by: C. Invidiata |
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Investing Outlook 2009 | Location! Location! Location!
The good thing about Residential Real Estate is that the fundamentals are very simple: 1. Buy the best location, because in the future the demand to live there will drive the prices up. 2. Choose the best quality materials in the finishes because they stand the
test of time and do appreciate due to inflation. 3. The traditional style house will appeal to a broader market on resale. These 3 simple rules to purchase a residential property are also 3 desirable lifestyle decisions. The best locations are usually the most desirable neighbourhoods close to town, lakes, water and mature trees. The best finishes provide the luxury comforts of living well and enjoying your home. The traditional home has the comforts of yesterday, that stately feeling and mature setting.
Commercial and Investment Properties also have a simple rule of thumb: Location! Location! Location! When considering the purchase of commercial real estate as an investment decision the “Location Rule” applies again. The rates for rent are driven by the tenants/merchants wanting to be where the people are, so main street commercial and prime side street commercial continues to be an attractive option to invest money. Oakville’s downtown rents have gone from $25 p.s.f. to $50 p.s.f. in less than 10 years and good leases ensure the income. This principle is simple, because we can do the historic research behind each property to provide the investor with the history of values and can project where the value is going. This principle of investing can also be applied to residential real estate where the buyer selects the best property and then rents it out to lower their costs and wait for the best increase to then sell it.
In summary, we have always been a simple business with simple principles. So in this new market buy the best locations to ensure your short term and long term investment strategies. Real estate historically has been a pillar of strength for building wealth and will continue to be in the future because it’s a necessity of life and a limited resource.
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What's Happening to the Housing Market?
Part 3 of 4 |
| Date Posted: November 12th, 2008 | Posted by: C. Invidiata |
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The New Market Conditions: The Buyers Market
It’s a great time to buy! This current market presents a wonderful opportunity to buy up to a larger home. We are in a buyer’s market, which means there are more homes
coming onto the market than there are buyers for them. This condition is terrific for the buyer, as there are more housing options available and it puts pressure on the price that is
being offered, ultimately reducing the amount accepted by the seller (which in some cases is 10% off the list price). |
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| The example of this benefit would be a house offered at $500,000, with the seller having to accept 10% less, or $450,000 - a $50,000 drop in value. Let’s assume the seller now becomes the buyer, and will be looking to buy up to a $1,000,000 house. Now, the $1,000,000 seller will be accepting his offer of $900,000, (10% less, or $100,000 in savings). In summary the $50,000 shortfall from his original sale has now been made up, plus an extra $50,000 in the purchase, leaving him now $50,000 ahead, a great opportunity. |
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| Let’s also assume that the $1,000,000 seller wanted to
move down and buy for $500,000, hoping to put $500,000 into his pocket as the “Delta” for what was needed to make the move happen. The seller will now have to find the house for $400,000 (which had been $500,000) to keep his “Cash Delta” in place. In this new environment, this is possible either from circumstances of the market or by looking in different areas to find the house. So, whether you are moving “up” or “down”, the solutions are there to keep the dream alive, and help you follow your lifestyle plan. |
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What's Happening to the Housing Market?
Part 2 of 4 |
| Date Posted: November 5th, 2008 | Posted by: C. Invidiata |
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Real Estate: A Necessity Of Life – Not A Stock Option
Last week we discussed the facts surrounding the Real Estate market as it related to the past 20 years, and pointed out the startling fact that despite two recessions, we are still on average 250% ahead of the values seen not so long ago in 1987. Today, we want to address the question: “Why Real Estate?” The underlying fact of Real Estate that is sometimes overlooked or forgotten, is that it is a necessity of life. The reality about this necessity is that at the worst of times, 30% of all listings will sell due to the "necessity factor", both of the buyer and the seller. The market never runs dry. The best of markets will see that percentage grow to just over 50%, meaning the buyers will increase with a “want” variable in mind and the sellers will be “want” sellers. If all things balance out, there will be a trade when it comes to price, timing and possession. The fact that Real Estate is a necessity demands the respect of the buyer’s wish list, and simply put, the location, style, quality of the home, and the ultimate setting that it is in will fuel the demand of buyers who want these elements. This, compounded by the fact that the Greater Toronto Area has approximately 100,000 people moving into the area each year, has a huge effect on the buyers looking for these qualities of house and neighbourhood. Oakville and Burlington continue to be premiere communities for these buyers to consider. They offer safety, quality retail, shops and restaurants, as well as proximity to Toronto. Once buyers assess where other buyers have purchased or built their homes, they gain
confidence that this trend will continue. We have seen a tremendous increase in the new home building activity where homeowners are investing their money into the homes which they can control and enjoy, and with the rate of increase profit tax free. One of our clients once said, “To predict the future you must analyze the past.” We have studied past trends and we know the present demands and benefits of this excellent community. The future for Oakville is bright indeed. More and more people will want to be here and call it home!
So, stated simply, the limited supply of premier property in one of the best communities in the country will continue to push the values up.
Stay tuned next week for Part 3: The Supply and Demand Factor of the New Market Condition: What is the $ Delta you Need?
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Downtown Oakville Tiny Tots On Parade |
| Date Posted: October 31st, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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The Invidiata Team was happy to participate in this year's 15th Annual Downtown Oakville Tiny Tots On Parade. A fun time was had by all.
The Downtown Oakville Tiny Tots On Parade is hosted by the Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area (BIA) and attracts hundreds of costumed tots.
Thank you to all the Princesses, Goblins and Ghouls who visited The Invidiata Team. Click here for photos! |
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What's Happening to the Housing Market?
Part 1 of 4 |
| Date Posted: October 29th, 2008 | Posted by: C. Avis |
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Don't Panic And Don't Allow Media Headlines To Spook You!
In spite of volatile financial markets and the uncertain outcome of the election in the United States, it is not worthwhile to get caught up in any group hysteria, especially when it comes to real estate. Although it is difficult to predict how 2009 might play out, the key factor will be how quickly a US and global financial recovery occurs. In Canada, interest rates remain low and may fall further. Double digit interest rates in 1989 to 1990 triggered the decline in prices due to lack of affordability. Immigration to Toronto and Canada is strong, Oakville continues to grow and people want homes! The government in Canada is reacting to prevent Canada from having a real estate bubble similar to the US by reducing the 40 year amortization to 35 years, with a down payment of 5%. Our banking industry is far more conservative than the United States.
We believe that everyone deserves a home and owning real estate builds wealth over the long term. The average price of a detached home in Oakville has risen by 258% since 1988, in spite of 3 major market corrections throughout that time period. The silver lining is that real estate always does well in the long run. Buy something you love and love where you live! This is your family home as well as an investment in the long term. We believe the best value for the dollar and the most enjoyable living environment continues to be found here in Oakville, the Gold Coast community. If you pay attention to the media these days, their sensationalism will convince you that real estate is not a good investment, but statistics continue to tell us otherwise. Remember, choose your home wisely, enjoy living in it, and watch your tax free investment appreciate over time, as always!
“Stop trying to predict the direction of the stock market, the economy (the housing market), interest rates, or elections. Always invest for the long term.” Warren Buffet |
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Real Estate Online |
Date Posted: October 23th, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan
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Buying and selling homes has changed dramatically with the advent of the Internet. The majority of prospective home buyers are now beginning their research online, and home sellers are realizing the power of the internet to showcase their property to the world in a way that was never before possible.
The internet of course needs to be approached with caution, but with thoughtful use, it can be a helpful tool when in the market to sell your current home or buy a new one. From the comfort of your own home, you can view listings on mls.ca, and the websites of the many real estate publications, agents, and national brokerages. This can also assist in your decision making process when looking for an agent who is experienced and knowledgeable in your marketplace.
The Invidiata Team’s website recently underwent a facelift, and now includes the ability to search our listings by price range, download property brochures, and submit resumes through our career section. Complete our easy to use forms to request a confidential market evaluation, or to get us started on the search for your dream home.
Though the Internet is a great tool when buying or selling, it doesn’t replace an experienced agent who will guide you through the intricate buying and selling process, negotiate on your behalf, and protect your interests. |
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Luxury Home Sales Hold Steady in Most
Major Markets Across the Country, says RE/MAX |
| Date Posted: October 10th, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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Luxury home sales in Oakville are up 30 per cent for properties over the million dollar price point in the first seven months of the year, rising from 106 units in 2007 to 138 units in 2008. Serious upward pressure on price has pushed values in Oakville’s top luxury neighbourhoods to $2 million in recent months. There are 175 properties currently listed for sale over $1 million, 67 of which top the $2 million price point. The top end of the market represents approximately 2.5 per cent of total residential MLS sales and that figure has been growing each and every year. Oakville’s waterfront continues to command top dollar. With two natural harbours, Oakville’s unique appeal continues to draw attention.
Recent luxury condo developments now reach
prices in excess of $2 million. Similarly, it is not
uncommon for land value alone to exceed the $2
million mark. Oakville’s South East and Downtown core continue to garner strong appeal, and most recently the demand has spread to include Oakville’s South West waterfront properties. This year’s most expensive MLS sale occurred in South West Oakville, priced at $5.5 million.
Source: RE/MAX Upper-End Market Trends Report 2008
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The Invidiata Team Welcomes Claudia Chopik |
| Date Posted: October 2nd, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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Born and raised in Oakville, Claudia began her real estate career in 2005 with RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp., Brokerage.
Claudia welcomes the opportunity to be part of and mentored by The Invidiata Team, the #1 Team in the World for RE/MAX. Valuing the team approach, she brings both honesty and integrity to all her dealings with clients and fellow team members. Providing excellent service and negotiating successful real estate transactions for her clients while at the same time creating positive relationships and long lasting friendships has been Claudia’s focus and key to her Real Estate success. |
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Welcome to the new website |
| Date Posted: August 22nd, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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After seven years, www.invidiata.com finally got its much awaited face-lift. New features include:
- Ability to search our listings by price range
- History of our recent Sold listings
- Request form to have one of our team members assist you in finding your dream home. Just fill out the questionnaire, and we'll do the rest!
- The Invididata Blog
- Career and Job Postings
- Plus many more features...
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Welcome back Donna Brookes to the New Project Division |
Date Posted: August 20th, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan
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We welcome back Donna Brookes, who has
rejoined The Invidiata Team RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. as a Broker in our New Project
Division. Donna has 21 years of experience selling residential real estate and has focused her efforts
on the luxury market. Professionalism, excellent
negotiating skills and trusted relationships with clients all contribute to her success.
If you have any questions about the New Project Division, don't hesitate to contact Donna or Tracey at The Invidiata Team at 905-339-3444. |
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Welcome Tracy Dunn to the New Project Division |
| Date Posted: August 20th, 2008 | Posted by: B. Quan |
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We welcome Tracey Dunn to our New Project Division as a new member of The Invidiata Team RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Tracey holds an FRI (Fellow of the Real Estate Institute), a CRES (Certified Real Estate Specialist), as well as an MVA (Market Value Appraiser) residential from the
Ontario Real Estate Association. She offers
extensive knowledge and experience as a Broker.
If you have any questions about the New Project Division, don't hesitate to contact Donna or Tracey at The Invidiata Team at 905-339-3444. |
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