Friday 20 December 2013

December 17, 2013

December 17, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 2,483 residential sales through the TorontoMLS system in the first 2 weeks of December 2013. The quantity of new lists entered into the TorontoMLS system was basically unvaried from last year. 

"The key story in the GTA housing market continues to surround the provision of listings, or lack thereof. However, growth in lists hasn't matched growth in sales. With the cost of homeownership remaining affordable, we have seen a resurgence in purchasing activity in the second half 2013. The result has been more buyers competing for fewer lists. 

The average selling price for December mid-month transactions was up Ten percent to $520,379, compared against $471,602 reported for the 1st 14 days of December 2012. This is the reason why we continue to experience strong price growth," said Toronto Real-estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

"Inventory levels will remain low in many parts of the GTA in 2014, particularly where low-rise home types are concerned, including single-detached and semi-detached houses and townhomes. Expect above-inflation price growth to resume next year," said Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real Estate Board's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Thursday 12 December 2013

December 4, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area


TORONTO, December 4, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 6,391 residential sales through the TorontoMLS system in November, representing a 13.9 % increase over the sales result for November 2012. Over the same period, new listings on TorontoMLS were down by 4.4 % and month-end active listings were down by 12.1 %. 

"Growth in sales was strong for most home types in the Greater Toronto Area. Sales growth was controlled by the single-detached market segment followed by condo flats. Together, singles and apartments accounted for nearly three-quarters of total GTA transactions," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

"With National Housing Day having just passed, housing cost is top of mind in the GTA and indeed nationally. Usher. The MLS Home Price Index ( HPI ) Composite Benchmark was up by 5.7 per cent over the same period. 

"Whether we consider the average TorontoMLS selling price or the MLS HPI Composite Benchmark, annual home price growth remained well-above the rate of inflation in November. This appears sensible given the undeniable fact that competition between customers increased last month. Transactions were up strongly year-over-year while the quantity of homes available for sale was down," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.











Thursday 28 November 2013

Nov 18, 2013

TORONTO, Nov 18, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 3,131 home transactions through the TorontoMLS system during the first fourteen days of Nov 2013. Over the same period, new lists were down by more than four percent. 

"The results for mid-November indicate that GTA homes remain ok with the expenses of home ownership," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

"More consumers competing for a smaller number of listings has translated into an accelerating pace of price growth. This theme has been most abundant in the low-rise market segment, including single-detached and semi-detached houses and townhomes. Nevertheless it's critical to notice the condo apartment market has additionally become tighter," asserted Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Research.

Sunday 10 November 2013

TORONTO, Nov 6, 2013

TORONTO, Nov 6, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 8,000 home sales through the TorontoMLS system in October 2013 up from 6,713 transactions reported in October 2012. Over the same period, new listings on the TorontoMLS system were down. 

"The GTA home ownership market has been broadly distinguished by a bounce in sales since the summer. Market conditions have been tighter in some market segments way more than others. Ground-oriented homes listed for below one million dollars in some areas of the GTA have been especially well-liked by buyers, while lists for these home types have been constrained," said Toronto Real-estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

"The supply of listings for many home types and price points has either been down year-over-year or at the very least not up by the same annual rate as sales. The additional Land Transfer Tax in the City of Toronto and the removal of the govt. guarantee on high ratio mortgages for home purchases over 1,000,000 $ have arguably led many homeowners not to list," continued Ms. Usher. 

The average selling price for TorontoMLS sales in October 2013 was $539,058 up by over 7 per cent in comparison to the average price of $502,127 in October 2012. The MLS Home Price Index ( MLS HPI ) Composite Benchmark was up by 4.5 % year-over-year. 

"Growth in the average selling price and the MLS HPI Composite Benchmark will continue through 2014. Inventory levels for ground-oriented home types will be low from a historic viewpoint and home ownership demand will stay powerful as cost remains under control due to the continuation of accommodative borrowing costs," said Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real estate Board's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Tuesday 22 October 2013

GTA REALTORS(R) Release Housing Figures

October 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 3,460 sales through the TorontoMLS system in the first 14 days of October 2013. This result was up by Twenty-one percent in comparison to 2,849 sales reported during the same period in 2012. October mid-month sales were also up by Thirteen per cent compared with the 10-year average. 

"With October mid-month sales well-above the Ten year average, it appears clear that we have more than recovered from the temporary dip in home transactions that resulted from the beginning of stricter mortgage lending guidelines," said Toronto Real estate Board President Dianne Usher. If this were not correct, the amount of sales might have been larger because more homes would've been able find a home to purchase," continued Ms. There have been more buyers competing for available properties compared to the initial half of the year, that has led straight to increased upward pressure on average selling prices," said Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real estate Board's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.











Thursday 10 October 2013

TORONTO, October 3, 2013

TORONTO, October 3, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 7,411 home sales through the TorontoMLS system in September 2013, representing a Thirty % increase compared with 5,687 transactions reported in September 2012. YTD, total home sales reported through TorontoMLS amounted to 68,907 during the first nine months of 2013 down by one % compared to the same period in 2012. 

"It's superb news that homes have found that the costs of home possession, including home loan payments, remain cheap. 

The average selling price for Sep transactions was $533,797 up by 6.5 % year-over-year. This is why the third quarter was identified by replenished growth in home sales in the GTA. Through the 1st 3 quarters of 2013, the average selling price was $520,118 up by over four percent compared to the 1st 9 months of 2012. 

The MLS Home Price Index composite baseline for September was up by four % year-over-year. The annual rate of expansion for the composite baseline has been accelerating since the spring of 2013. 

"The price growth story in Sep continued to be about strong requirement for low-rise home types, coupled with a short supply of listings. Even with slower price expansion and month-to-month volatility in the condo flat market, overall yearly price growth has been well above the rate of inflation this year. This scenario may continue to play out through what's left of 2013," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Research.


Thursday 19 September 2013

September 17, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS

September 17, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 3,158 transactions through the TorontoMLS system during the first 14 days of Sep 2013. This result was up by Twenty-nine % compared to September 2012. Sales were up for all the important home types on a year-over-year basis. The condo loft segment showed the way with robust sales expansion in the City of Toronto. 

"The strong expansion in sales that we have seen during the last two-and-a-half months signifies that GTA homes are approaching home possession with a renewed sense of confidence. 


The number of new lists entered into the TorontoMLS system was down barely compared with the same period in 2012. Powerful sales growth joined with a slight decrease in new lists points to increased competition between customers in some market segments and the continuation of above-inflation rates of price growth. The average selling price at mid-month Sep was up by four % on a yearly basis to $514,560. 


"With months of inventory remaining low from a ground-breaking viewpoint and proof of tighter market conditions in the summer, the sole discussion that makes sense is for continuing home price growth in the Greater Toronto Area for the remainder of 2013," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.


Tuesday 10 September 2013

TORONTO, 5 Five, 2013


TORONTO, 5 Five, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 7,569 residential transactions through the TorontoMLS system in Aug 2013. This represented a Twenty-one per cent increase matched against 6,249 sales in August 2012. 

"Sales were up strongly this past August for all of the major home types compared with last year. Many households have accounted for the additional costs caused by tougher mortgage lending tenets and have reactivated their search for a home. 

The average selling price for August 2013 was $503,094 up by about 5.5 per cent matched against the average of $477,170 in August 2012. These homes have found that a diversity of affordable ownership options exist across the GTA," claimed Toronto Real-estate Board President Dianne Usher. The MLS Home Price Index ( HPI ) composite benchmark was up by 3.7 % over the same period. 

"Despite a rise in borrowing costs during the spring and summer, a typical priced home in the GTA has remained cheap for a household earning an average income. Bearing this in mind, tight market conditions are anticipated to promote continued price growth through the rest of 2013," asserted Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Research.







Friday 26 July 2013

July 16, 2013

July 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 3,603 home sales through the TorontoMLS system during the first Fourteen days of July. This result represented a respectable increase of 2.2 per cent matched against the same period in 2012. Over the same time frame, the amount of new listings entered into TorontoMLS was down by two percent. 

"The 2nd half of 2013 began with tighter market conditions in the GTA home market. With sales up and new listings down, it is sensible the annual rate of price expansion sped up. This was especially the case for single-detached and semi-detached homes in the Town of Toronto, which remained in very short supply," announced Toronto Real estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

The average selling price for the 1st 14 days of July was $510,819 up by 8.1 per cent compared with $472,632 in the first part of July 2012. The condo flat segment continued to experience moderate average pricetag expansion. 

"Expect a quicker speed of average cost growth in the 2nd half 2013 compared with the 1st six months of the year. The strong demand and deficit of lists for low-rise home types in some neighbourhoods will continue to be the driver of price growth. An enhancement in conditions in the condominium residence market will also have a positive impact," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Wednesday 10 July 2013

TORONTO, July 4, 2013

TORONTO, July 4, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 9,061 sales through the TorontoMLS system in June 2013 down by less than one % compared with June 2012. Over the same period, new lists were down by a greater rate than sales, suggesting market conditions became tighter. While the number of transactions was still down compared with 2012, rates of decline were significantly improved compared against the first quarter," said Toronto Real-estate Board President Dianne Usher. 

"As a growing number of home purchasers, many of whom put their purchase on hold due to stricter lending laws, now reactivate their search, the expectation is for renewed growth in home sales in the second 1/2 2013," added Ms. 

The average selling price in June was up by 4.7 per cent year-over-year to $531,374. Over the same period of time, average condominium residence selling costs remained in line with 2012 levels. 

"The short supply of low-rise home types in numerous parts of the GTA relative to the number of homes looking to buy continued to prompt powerful upward force on selling costs of singles and semis," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis. "We have also seen enough buyers in the better-supplied condo studio market to provide support for selling prices at current levels." 

Monday 8 July 2013

TORONTO, June 5, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS

TORONTO, June 5, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 10,182 sales through the TorontoMLS system in May 2013, representing a dip of 3.4 percent compared against May 2012. Sales of single-detached homes in the GTA were up by almost one percent matched against the same period last year, including a three per cent year-over-year increase in the City of Toronto. 

"The sales picture in the GTA has improved markedly over the last 2 months. While the quantity of transactions in April and May stayed below last year's levels, the rate of decline has been much smaller. A growing number of homes who put their decision to purchase on hold due to tougher lending guidelines are starting to become active again in the ownership market," claimed Toronto Real-estate Board President Ann Hannah. The yearly rate of price growth was driven by the tight low-rise segment of the market and particularly by single-detached and semi-detached home transactions in the City of Toronto. 

The average selling price for May 2013 sales was $542,174 up by 5.4 per cent compared to $514,567 in May 2012. Average condominium apartment costs were also up barely compared with last year. 

The MLS Home Price Index ( HPI ) Composite Benchmark was up by 2.8 % year-over-year. 

"The annual rate of price growth in May was not surprising given the contest that still exists between consumers, especially for low-rise home types such as single-detached and semi-detached homes. We stay on track for a three-and-a-half % increase in the average selling price for 2013 as a whole," announced Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Tuesday 18 June 2013

GTA REALTORS(R) Release Mid-Month Resale Housing Figures

June 18, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 4,620 sales through the TorontoMLS system in the first two weeks of June 2013. This result was up by 4.7 percent compared to the 1st two weeks of June 2012. Home sales in the Town were basically flat compared with last year. 

"The expectation was for an improvement in home sales in the 2nd half 2013. Many households have adjusted to tougher lending rules and have renewed their search for possession housing," declared Toronto Real estate Board President Ann Hannah. Early June results are in accordance with this outlook. 

"It is also important to note that new listings were down over the same period. This supports the moderate to strong rates of price growth reported for most major home types, including condo apartments," added Ms. With sales up and new listings down, market conditions became tighter. Hannah. 

The average selling price for the 1st fourteen days of June was $536,141 up by 3.8 % compared with June 2012. 

"While price expansion has been driven by low-rise home types this year, condominium apartment price growth has shown improvement since March. Despite higher inventory levels, there have been enough buyers relative to available listings to support condo price appreciation," related Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Saturday 15 June 2013

Toronto Land Transfer Tax should be scrapped

TORONTO, June Fourteen, 2013 -- With the City of Toronto's Executive Committee expected to check a City staff report on options for phasing out the Toronto Land Transfer Tax in coming weeks, a new poll is showing powerful public support for getting rid of this tax. 

"The public continues to feel strongly that the Land Transfer Tax should be scrapped. Torontonians know that the land transfer tax is not very good for our City, and they want City Council to follow through on commitments to phase it out," said Ann Hannah, President of the Toronto Real estate Board ( TREB ). 
The poll was conducted by Ipsos Reid, between May 10, 2013 and May Twenty-two, 2013, and discovered that, 
Two thirds ( Sixty five percent ) of Torontonians support plans to eliminate the Toronto Land Transfer Tax ; 
Support for eliminating the land transfer tax with a gradual phase-out approach, as recommended by Mayor Ford, is robust ( Sixty five percent ) ; 
90% of current home buyers feel that they received minimal added value in borough services for the Land Transfer Tax that they paid to the Town ; 
74% of home purchasers in Toronto and the Bigger Toronto Area say they are much more likely to get a home outside of Toronto specifically due to the Toronto Land Transfer Tax ; 
65% of home purchasers who now live in Toronto say they are much more likely to leave Toronto, when they buy their next home, specifically because of the Toronto Land Transfer Tax ; 
"The Land Transfer Tax has hurt Toronto for enough time. We have been talking out against this tax for some considerable time and we'll keep doing so till Town Council takes action. We're pleased with our attempts to stand up for the public and let them know on this issue, and we are going to keep doing that. The general public expects action on this unfair tax before the next municipal election," said Von Palmer, Chief Government and Public Affairs Officer for TREB. 
A study printed last autumn, by the C.D. Howe Institute, discovered that the Toronto Land Transfer Tax is directly responsible for dampening home sales in Toronto by 16 percent. This equates to over 5,000 lost housing sales, including condominiums. A new study, conducted by the Altus Group, determined that each resale housing transaction ends up in over $40,000 in spinoff spending on things like movers, restorations, furniture, and appliances. 
"Home possession is a worthy goal and Town Council should not be making it harder to realize. City Council can, and should, move onward with a responsible phase-out of the Land Transfer Tax," added Palmer.


Sunday 2 June 2013

Key Policy Rate Remained Unchanged

The Bank of Canada's economic outlook and key policy rate remained unchanged when it announced on May 29th2013 it was keeping its trend-setting overnite lending rate One per cent. 

In its April announcement, the Bank recognised the persistent commercial weakness and cut its outlook for Canadian economic growth to 1.5 % in 2013. Although recent business stories means that expansion in the 1st quarter came in stronger than expected, the Bank nevertheless expects annual commercial expansion this year to remain in line with its prediction. 

"The Bank recognizes that expansion in household debt is moderating," declared Gregory Klump, CREA's Chief Economist. 

In a similar fashion, total CPI inflation was a little less tough than projected in the Bank's April MPR, but the Bank still expects inflation to reach its 2 percent target in mid-2015. "It's a constructive development and yet another reason for the Bank of Canada to keep interest rates on hold." 

"The bottom line is that inflation remains moribund and the Canadian economy is still in low gear, so there isn't a reason for the Bank to start raising interest rates any time soon," claimed Klump. "Additionally, the Bank of Canada knows that a sudden shift in direction for IR policy would spook finance markets and gives the Bank a different reason to keep interest rates on hold once incoming Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz takes the helm." 

As of May 29th, 2013, the advertised five-year lending rate stood at 5.14 %, unchanged from the prior Bank rate announcement on April 17th.

Friday 17 May 2013

May 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported

May 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 4,476 transactions through the TorontoMLS system in the first 14 days of May. This result represented a decrease of 9.7 percent compared with the same period in 2012. Sales declines were larger for the Town of Toronto, at 11.4 percent, vs the surrounding regions where sales were down by 8.6 per cent year-over-year. 

"Despite fewer sales this year compared to last, competition between buyers in most segments of the market stayed strong enough to promote annual rates of price expansion above the rate of inflation. A household earning the average earnings in the GTA can comfortably afford the home loan payments connected with the acquisition of a median priced home," said Toronto Real estate Board President Ann Hannah. 

The average selling price during the first two weeks of May was $543,838 up by 5.4 percent in comparison to the same time-frame last year. Price growth was strongest for low-rise home types, but positive price growth for condo apartments in the Town of Toronto was also reported. 

"Continuing the present trend during the past year, the low-rise slice of the market drove overall price growth during the first part of May, as months of inventory stayed below historic norms for key home types," claimed Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

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Tuesday 7 May 2013

GTA REALTORS(R) MONTHLY RESALE HOUSING FIGURES

TORONTO, May 3, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 9,811 sales through the TorontoMLS system in April 2013, representing a dip of 2 % in comparison to 10,021 transactions in April 2012. Both new lists in the month and active listings at the end of April were up on a year-over-year basis. 

"Despite the headwinds we have experienced in the home market this year, April sales came in quite robust in comparison to last year. As we move through the spring and into the 2nd half 2013, the demand for home ownership should continue to firm-up relative to last year," declared Toronto Real-estate Board President Ann Hannah. It is practical to reckon that some homes, who originally put their call to buy on hold, are once more looking to buy," continued Ms. Hannah. 

The average selling price for April 2013 transactions was $526,335 up by 2 % compared to April 2012. The MLS HPI Composite Baseline Price was up by 2.9 per cent. 

"The condo flat segment in the Town of Toronto was a key driver of price expansion in April, with both the average selling price and the MLS HPI loft index up on a year-over-year basis. The improved condo sales picture, with Toronto sales down by only one per cent compared to last year, suggests that interest in apartment possession could be improving," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Research.




Monday 29 April 2013

Competition Tribunal Dismisses Case against TREB

April 16, 2013 -- On April 15, the competition Tribunal announced that it has dismissed an Application started by the Commissioner of Competition against the Toronto Real estate Board, and ordered costs owing by the Commissioner of Competition to TREB. 

The contest Tribunal stated that its decision is founded on its finding that the Toronto Real Estate Board was obviously not acting anti-competitively. 

"The Tribunal's decision was the right decision," asserted Ann Hannah, President of TREB. "TREB and its Members may continue to offer the highest possible quality property service without sacrificing the privacy rights of consumers." 

This is a certain call which undeniably permits TREB to carry on with its current Virtual Office Website ( Vow ) policy. These Vows permit clients to access REALTOR Members' secure password-protected web sites showing MLS listing information. TREB is skyrocketing access and competition while safeguarding the privacy rights of shoppers. 

Across the hearings, TREB stood up for the privacy rights of clients and will carry on doing so. The result reinforces that protecting privacy isn't anti-competitive. 
"TREB struggled with the competition Bureau's actions that would have forced TREB to dismantle the safeguards of the MLS system," expounded Von Palmer, Chief Privacy Officer. 

"TREB and its Members have a moral and legal obligation to guard consumers' private information. Privacy matters, so we fought back." 

TREB appreciates the efforts and support of The Canadian Real estate Organisation on the matter. 

TREB has a commitment to protecting the quality of the MLS system and the better service TREB Members offer their clientele while safeguarding the privacy rights of consumers.



 


Tuesday 23 April 2013

STAINS AND RESIDUES ON ASPHALT SHINGLES

Surface residues or discoloring stains can affect almost any type roof. One actual condition that has get even more commonplace in new geographic regions is discoloring of asphalt shingle roofing due to algae. Often this condition only has an impact on a roof's appearance, though, with certain roof products or the presence of other negative factors it may effect on the final service life of the roof. 
The staining and tarnishing due to algae initially appears as dark brown and black, or occasionally greenish streaks then spread across the roof surface. This staining isn't like the taints due to dirt and tree debris that tends to amass on localized areas of a roof ; but it isn't uncommon to find both conditions on some roofs. It's most noticeable on white or other light colored roofs. 
Due to its appearance, the darkening from algae is often referred to as "black mold" marking. But the vast majority of the growths aren't a mould fungus at all, but the type of algae formation that feeds on organic material such as the filler ( calcium carbonate ) used in the granulated ceramic surface covering the asphalt shingles. 
The algae expansion tends to happen most frequently on the north and eastern surfaces or where the roof is shaded or otherwise slow-drying after rains. The growths can be discovered in nearly all regions, though the issue is more widespread in regions where the weather is warm and damp at least part of the year. Prolonged hot, wet summer weather is a real contributory allow for allowing the algae to become well established. Cold, dry weather can slow or stop the spread but may not eliminate the condition altogether as the stains will remain. 
Spores from the algae are carried by the wind. The successive growth of moss and other fungi that prosper on the algae and other organic matter that amasses on the roof can heighten conditions. 
Some techniques used to fight the algae are most likely damaging to the roof and to the encompassing property. Aggressive washing ( e.g, by washing or hi-pressure spraying ) and the associated roof traffic can cause the loss of granules or other damages to the shingles leading to premature roof failure. 
There are commercially available treatments, as well as execs that specialize in the work. Only cleaning solutions recommended by the roof manufacturer should be used. While some treatments will kill the algae right away, it might take a few weeks or days for the color to vanish. Unfortunately, cleaning is only a short term benefit at best mostly. If spores are there, the algae will begin to grow again almost instantly if the conducive leading to its expansion in the first instance are still present. 
To avoid injury or roof damage, it is best to have the roof treated professionally. The cleaning solutions will make the roof surface greasy and dangerous. Before applying cleaning solutions, any mud buildup or waste should be carefully removed. Foundation plantings should be covered and the applicator should wear protecting glasses, gloves and clothes. Some cleaning solutions can kill grass and other foliage, so run-off from the treatment process should be collected or diverted to an appropriate drainage point. It's also vital to rinse the gutters and other surfaces with clear water to stop the solution from corroding or staining them. 
The most effective way to fight the staining and discoloration from algae is to prevent it from growing. Makers offer products with algae-inhibiting features. Labeled "algae resistant" ( AR ) or "fungi resistant," they have zinc granules incorporated into the outer layer of the shingles next to the ordinary ceramic-coated granules to stop the algae growth on the granules. Copper or zinc strips placed at the ridge area of the roof can also control the growths. Installing a dark roof will not stop the algae problem but it will be less obvious.

Sunday 21 April 2013

CONDITIONING YOUR AIR CONDITIONER


A central air conditioning system can offer years of satisfactory cooling with comparatively small upkeep. Nonetheless a seasonal start-up check and regular maintenance is recommended. Some you can do, others need a pro. 

House owner Checklist 
For house owners in colder climates, now is the time to get set for the heat of summer. The amount of do it yourself air conditioning upkeep a homeowner can do is limited. However, there are one or two steps that may help the system operate trouble-free and decrease the aptitude for consequential damage. Making sure adequate airflow is maybe the most important house owner responsibility. 




Following manufacturer directions, householders can often : 
Clean or replace the filter ( s ) regularly. 
Keep the condensing coils clean by ( awfully ) carefully brushing and hosing them. 
Keep leaves and other waste off the condensing ( outdoor ) unit. 
Keep plants and other plant expansion that might obstruct airflow at least Eighteen inches 
Away from the condenser. 
Maintain insulation on ductwork in attics and other unconditioned areas. 
Check the condensate drain for any hint of blockage or leaking. Water should be 
oozing from the end of this drain line when the unit is running. If no dripping is noted, check at the indoor unit for any sign of leaking. 
Keep room input and return registers clear of furniture or other obstructions. 

Selecting Trained Professionals 

If your air conditioner needs more than the regular upkeep outlined here, consult a professional air con expert. A highly trained pro can supply a comprehensive pre-season or upkeep analysis and servicing as required. Insufficiently trained service experts forsake proper diagnosing procedures and often only perform stop-gap measures to keep a unit going. Such short-sightedness can have a drastic effect on other elements leading to consequential failure of the whole system. 

At an effective minimum, a technician should : 

Check the system contains the proper amount of refrigerant. 
Test for refrigerant leaks. 
Clean the blower parts. 
Check for and seal duct leaking. 
Measure airflow through the evaporator coil. 
Verify the correct electrical control sequence. 
Check the condensate system for backup or leakage. 
Check operating temperatures and pressures. 

Call now for servicing. Wait too long and you might find service companies backed up on scheduling. Check the accuracy of the thermostat.

Friday 19 April 2013

GTA REALTORS(R) Release Condo Market Report


April 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 4,133 condo house sales through the TorontoMLS system during the 1st quarter of 2013. This result was down by roughly 17 % contrasted to the first quarter of 2012. 

New lists of condominium apartments were also down on a year-over-basis in quarter 1, but by a smaller yearly rate of five percent. This being said, the proven fact that new condo listings were down in the first quarter means that the market may become tighter moving forward. 

"Buyers benefitted from a large amount of choice in the apartment market in the first quarter, especially contrasted to low-rise home types. This may also depend on the timing and scale of future condo apartment completions," recounted Toronto Property Board President Ann Hannah. 

"With months of inventory high from a historic point of view, it is smart that the average selling price for condos edged lower over the last two quarters. However, March results were much more positive matched against Q1 as a whole, with the average apartment selling price up by two per cent annually for the GTA," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Research.
 

Wednesday 17 April 2013

Release Mid-Month Resale Housing Figures


April 16, 2013 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS reported 4,260 sales through the TorontoMLS system in the first Fourteen days of April, representing a slight dip of less than one per cent compared against the same period in 2012. The reported sales figure did benefit from one extra working day compared to last year, because Good Fri. in 2012 dropped in April. 

"April sales to date, which were driven by strong growth in single-detached home sales in the regions surrounding Toronto, represent a positive beginning to the spring market. Because market conditions have stayed tight, we continue to see average cost expansion well above the rate of inflation for many home types," said Toronto Real-estate Board President Ann Hannah. 

The average selling price for April mid-month sales was $527,397 up 4.3 % compared against $505,617 in 2012. Rates of average cost expansion were similar for the Town of Toronto and the surrounding regions under the TREB market area. 

"The annual rate of price expansion so far in April is basically above TREB's outlook of 3.5 percent for 2013. Robust expansion in the average apartment studio price in the City of Toronto was a key driver in this regard," expounded Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real Estate Board's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

Friday 12 April 2013

Long-Term Outlook For Real Estate Remains Positive

April 12, 2013 -- Sales through the TorontoMLS system covering the Bigger Toronto Area were down 17 percent year-over-year in March with 7,765 transactions matched against 9,385 in March 2012. It is critical to note Nonetheless, that unlike last year, this March included an approved vacation. 

March also announced the end of the first quarter. There were 17,678 sales reported in the first quarter of the year down Fourteen per cent compared with last year. 

Sales activity was slightly stronger in the areas surrounding the City of Toronto, with 4,874 transactions reported in the '905' / '705' regions within the TREB market area, representing a year-over-year decrease of just about 16 percent. The City of Toronto's 2,891 sales represented a reduction of Nineteen % compared against a year ago. 

As has been the case over the best part of the last year, the number of active listings at the months end have been up compared to the year before. Customers have benefitted from more choice, which helps explain why the typical number of days a home remained on the market before selling has edged up. In March, the average days on market was Twenty-four days versus 21 days a year ago. With this related, active listings continue to trend below levels experienced in the pre-recession period. 

On a year-over-year basis, the medium price of a GTA home sold through TorontoMLS increased by virtually four % in March to $519,879. Gains were a touch better in the City's surrounding area with average pricetag climbing by at least four % to $493,238. 

The average TorontoMLS home price was up 3 % annually matched against quarter one of 2012. The City of Toronto's average cost of $564,793 represented an increase of almost 3 % compared with March 2012. 

Townhouse costs in the City of Toronto saw the most serious year-over-year price gains in March, climbing by virtually 8 %. Semi-detached homes in the City of Toronto followed, growing by virtually 7 per cent. Detached homes in the City's surrounding area also showed healthy price gains, rocketing by 5 percent compared against a year ago. 

One significant factor that can prompt consumers to enter the market as we move farther into spring is the affordability that five-year fixed-rate mortgages offer, at approximately three %. Less promising though , was the March unemployment rate in Toronto, which stayed stalled last month at 8.4 per cent, identical to that of the month before. 

The long term picture for our City's real estate market , however, stays positive, supported by the Bigger Toronto Area's propitious reputation. Recently, three GTA municipalities Newmarket, Oakville and Burlington ranked within the top 10 of MoneySense magazine's yearly "Best Places to Live in Canada" report, which examines factors that contribute to quality of life including work, incomes, housing affordability, weather, crime statistics and access to medical treatment. Actually 8 GTA municipalities, including the City of Toronto, ranked in the top Thirty on the report's list of Two hundred towns.

Thursday 11 April 2013

OTTAWA, April 9, 2013 Housing starts

OTTAWA, April 9, 2013 Housing starts in Canada were trending at 189,742 units in March, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Firm. The trend is a half year moving average of the monthly seasonally altered yearly rates ( SAAR ) One of housing starts. 

"As predicted, the trend in total housing starts continued to moderate in March. Builders are adjusting to lower home demand and as a consequence, completed and unoccupied units per capita remain comparatively close to their historical average," expounded Mathieu Laberge, Assistant Chief Economic expert at CMHC. 

CMHC uses the trend measure as a complement to the monthly SAAR of housing begins to account for considerable swings in monthly guesses and acquire a more complete image of the state of the housing market. In some cases, investigating only SAAR information can be fooling in some markets, as they happen to be mostly driven by the multiples section of the markets, which can often be quite fluctuating from one month to the following. 

The stand-alone monthly SAAR was 184,028 units in March, up barely from 183,207 in Feb. The SAAR of urban starts reduced by 2.7 per cent in March to 157,217 units, controlled by a 6.6 % decline in single urban begins to 60,558 units. Multiple urban starts remained comparatively unchanged at 96,659 units in March. 

March's seasonally changed annual rates of urban starts reduced in Ontario ( -15.7 percent ) and Quebec ( -13.5 % ). Urban starts increased in Atlantic Canada ( 27.1 percent ), the Prairies ( 13.8 per cent ), and British Columbia ( 13.1 per cent ). 

Rustic starts2 were estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 26,811 units in March.

Thursday 4 April 2013

Buying Or Selling A Home? Click here for more info.

Each year the change of seasons prompts many people to move to their next home and thanks to the increased motivation of today's very low interest rates, this year will be no exception. 

While many of life's major transitions involve some nail biting, buying or selling a home need not need a leap into the dark thanks to all the information that is available through TorontoRealEstateBoard.com, a domain that Bigger Toronto REALTORS developed with your wishes under consideration. 

Gaining comprehension of the market should be a most important step in getting ready for your move and doing so is easy with reports on current conditions, updated twice monthly, on TorontoRealEstateBoard.com. To remain up to date, be sure to examine in at mid-month for a picture of current conditions. 

Through the Market Watch report, produced at the close of each month, you'll gain detailed information specific to your locale like the month's sales, average prices, and the quantity of days on market. There's even a quarterly report designed purely for those having an interest in the apartment market. If you prefer to take in info visually, videos and charts that capture market info are also available. 

Accurate financial planning is also key to a successful move and to help prepare, the internet site includes calculators that decide land transfer tax costs and rebates where needed. You'll also find information on a good range of executive programs created to help house buyers and sellers. 

Studying about several other factors that may affect your exchange is favourable also. Videos and articles will give you insight into issues like the seriousness of signing a Buyer Representation Agreement, the requirements of anti-money laundering legislation and the kind of info that's safeguarded to guard your personal privacy. 

When you're prepared to make a foray into the market be certain to consult a REALTOR. Ask your friends, family and comrades for referrals and use the website's Find a REALTOR search function to get contact details in just 1 click. 

Negotiating the terms of a deal is amongst the many areas where your REALTOR's abilities and information can help you achieve a successful end result. 

Once you have made this critical choice, you can work with your REALTOR to identify houses suited to your requirements by browsing available properties in the Greater Toronto Area through the website's direct link to REALTOR.ca You'll even find a directory of open homes prepared in your neighborhood. You may also buttress your position though , by making yourself familiar with the standard forms utilized in a transaction. Plain language explanations of them are also available on TorontoRealEstateBoard.com 

Equipped with all of this info you will definitely increase the likelihood of a favourable transaction however ; it's no replacement for real world experience. That is where your REALTOR comes in. By taking advantage of all of the tools and abilities they should offer you may set yourself up for the most powerful result practicable.

Wednesday 3 April 2013

HOUSING FIGURES - Apr 3, 2013

TORONTO, Apr 3, 2013 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS reported 7,765 transactions through the TorontoMLS system in March 2013 down Seventeen percent matched against 9,385 transactions in March 2012. While the year-over-year dip in March sales followed the trend that has unfolded since mid-way through 2012, it's also important to note the Good Fri. vacation was in March this year vs April in 2012. Generally speaking, there are fewer sales reported on approved holidays and weekends. 

"Home ownership remains affordable for a household earning the average revenue in the Greater Toronto Area. 

In the first quarter of 2013, sales amounted to 17,678 down by Fourteen per cent compared against First-quarter 2012. There are several prepared purchasers in the marketplace today. While some households have put their call to purchase on hold due to stricter lending rules or the additional Land Transfer Tax in the Town of Toronto, other homes simply haven't managed to find the correct house because of a shortage of lists in some market segments," said Toronto Real estate Board President Ann Hannah. 

The average selling price in March was $519,879 up by 3.8 per cent matched against March 2012. 

"The average selling price and the MLS Home Price Index Composite Benchmark was up on a year-over-year basis across most home types, particularly in the low-rise market segments where supply remains an issue. The average price in First-quarter 2013 was $508,066 up by 3.2 percent compared to Q1 of 2012. TREB's typical price forecast for 2013 remains at $515,000, representing a 3.5 per cent yearly rate of growth," expounded Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.


Tuesday 2 April 2013

TAMPER-RESISTANT RECEPTACLES

Annually, the insertion of foreign objects into electrical receptacles ends in injuries to several children. Almost Ninety percent of these events concerned youngsters under Six, with 1st and 2nd degree burns accounting for the overwhelming majority of wounds. But now the technology is available to help reduce the likelihood of injury. 
The characteristic foreign-object insertion situation involves : 
A 2 or Three year old child ( Half of all events ) 
A situation happening at home 
Insertion of a hairpin or key 
First or Second degree burn to fingers 
Emotional injury to the child and parents 
Treatment required in a trauma room 
Beside hairpins or keys, other common objects inserted by youngsters include fingers, pins, wires, screws, nails, paper clips, plugs, tweezers, paper clips, utensils and jewellery. 
To help prevent these insertion events and wounds, the most generally used electrical codes call for a new electric safety feature in all new houses tamper-resistant receptacles. This code change basically influences new construction ; nonetheless tamper-resistant receptacles can be added in existing houses too. 

Tamper-resistant receptacle technology uses a built in system to prevent a foreign object from touching electrically live components when the object is inserted into the receptacle slots. There are a few methods to achieve tamper-resistance operation, the commonest being the use of a spring-loaded shutter mechanism. When the receptacle isn't in use, the shutters are closed, and all electrical contacts are covered. Upon inserting of a plug, the blades of the plug simultaneously compress the shutters against the spring. This simultaneous force causes the screens to slide apart to access to the receptacle contacts, allowing the plug to be absolutely inserted into the receptacle. When the plug is removed, the screens instantly close, covering the contact openings. 
Standard plugs can be inserted in and removed from a tamperproof receptacle in a similar manner as standard electric outlets ; nonetheless insertion of an object into one slot, or uneven insertion is prevented. The tamper-resistant features , however, don't provide defense against the concurrent insertion of two single-pronged items. Determined adults and adolescents could also bypass the tamperproof mechanisms if significant force is applied. 
Unlike plastic outlet caps and other add-on childproofing devices, which can sometimes be removed, tamper-resistant receptacles provide permanent protection. In addition, some add on devices can simply be pulled out by children and have also shown to be a choking hazard due to their tiny size. Some other sorts of add-on devices create a chance of arcing or overheating thanks to a partly exposed plug or reduced plug / receptacle contact surface. 
All tamper-resistant receptacles must have either the words "Tamper Resistant" or the letters "TR" on the device in a manner that allows the label to be reviewed with the wall plate removed. 
Additional info about tamper-resistant receptacles can be found at the National Electrical Manufacturer's Association Safety website : www.childoutletsafety.org, the Electrical Safety Foundation International internet site : www.esfi.org, and the Safe Kids Canada website : www.safekidscanada.ca
Note : These tips are only general guiding principles. Since every circumstance is different, contact a pro if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and upkeep information is available on the net at 

 

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