For many people, real estate investing is a full-time job. It’s how people make their living, and some people are born to be real estate investors. For others, real estate investing might seem like something far too complicated to deal with. After all, buying a house for your family to live in can be stressful enough. Why put yourself through all that if you don’t have to?

The answer is that real estate investing can be a profitable experience that not only helps diversify your investment portfolio but helps build generational wealth within your family. In short, investing in real estate today could benefit your children in the future!

Let’s take a closer look…

Why Invest in Real Estate?

Real estate is often considered an extremely stable investment. It’s very low-risk, in that there is little chance that you will ever lose a significant amount of money in a real estate investment. For example, when you buy stocks, you are taking a lot of risks. The stock market is impacted by many factors that are well outside your control. At any point in time, a stock can skyrocket or plummet.

However, with real estate, you can almost always expect appreciation. Investing in real estate is not a scheme to get rich quickly, rather it’s a simmer that will eventually pay off years later. Take a look at our current real estate market – over the past decade we have seen phenomenal growth in appreciation over the short and long term. Most properties have doubled (or more) in value. Even if the market cools down to a more balanced level, you can expect that there will continue to be a reasonable appreciation in value. This makes real estate investing perfect for investors who are at the peak of their career with extra money to allocate somewhere that will offer a safe and reasonable ROI.

Real estate also helps you build equity, meaning you can borrow against it to grow your investment even more. It’s extremely difficult and rare to borrow against stocks, and in most cases, it’s something that is not recommended by financial experts.

If you’re an avid investor already, you’re probably aware of the benefits of a “diverse” portfolio. What does that mean exactly? Basically, it means not putting all your eggs in one basket. If you are deeply invested in one particular stock, and something happens to that stock, there goes all your money with it. If you have a diverse investment portfolio with numerous types of investments, you are protected from future disruptions or potential downfalls.

A Few Other Considerations For Investing in Real Estate

If the idea of investing in real estate sounds intriguing to you, there are a few things you need to consider first. Here are just a few examples of some of the major considerations when it comes to real estate investing:

• Are you financially viable to put down a down payment and pay a second mortgage?
• Do you plan to rent out your investment property?
• Will you hire a property manager?
• What are the monthly expenses you need to plan for?
• What kind of ROI are you looking to get?
• What are your short and long terms goals with this investment?

Investing in real estate is a bit bigger of a commitment than buying stock. The initial buy-in is more (the down payment), and you are on the hook for more responsibilities as a Landlord. However, if you cover all your bases, think things through, plan, and work with experienced professionals, you can certainly find success in this market.

What Kind of Real Estate to Invest In?

Most investors look for specific things in an investment property. Features like proximity to transit and schools, nearby amenities, and home features like stainless steel appliances, in-unit washer and dryer, and more are all common traits that renters look for.

Whether you’re buying a condo, a single family home, or a multi unit dwelling, it’s important to understand what work needs to be done to bring this home up to the current standards of today’s rental market.

Do your research and find out how much these properties are currently renting for, and what your monthly expenses vs. monthly income will be.

Looking for your ideal investment property? Search through our listings here.

Thinking about your next investment property? Here are a few blogs to help you choose the ideal location:

• 5 Up-and-Coming Toronto Neighbourhoods for Investing
• The Top 5 Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Oakville
• Our Top 7 GTA Pre-Construction Projects to Watch For

How Real Estate Investing Can Help Your Children

While many people choose to invest in real estate as a way to grow their income, diversify their investment portfolios, or help improve the affordability of their home (in the case of a basement apartment/second suite), there’s one often-overlooked reason to invest in real estate. Investing today can help your children in the future. Here are a few scenarios to consider:

• Purchase a condo today and rent it out, collect the rent in a savings account and then once your child is college age, use that money to pay for their school.
• Purchase a condo today and rent it out, once your child is college age, sell the condo and use the profits to pay for their school.

We have also seen parents buy condos or townhouses with the intention of eventually renting to their children or selling to their children when they are adults to help them get their foot in the door.

Passing along the Landlord responsibility to your grown children is also a great way to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and give your child experience with managing projects and making their own money.

Regardless of the route you take, investing today can have a huge impact on your life tomorrow. Whether it’s helping save money for retirement, helping to bolster your current financial situation, or preparing to best equip your kids for the future, real estate investing is almost always a great idea.

What do you picture when you think about a great family-friendly community? We think of great schools, beautiful parks, safe neighbourhoods, after-school programs, and more. They say it takes a village to raise a child, which makes it even more important to choose a community that will truly benefit your family in all the best ways.

For us, Burlington is pretty high up on the list of great places to live. In 2019 MacLean’s Magazine even called Burlington the best place to live if you have a family.

Let’s take a closer look at all the reasons why Burlington is a great place to raise a family.

The Population

The same MacLean’s article that proclaimed Burlington as the best family-friendly community also noted the city’s population as a great reason to move here if you have kids. It stated that 47% of the population reported having kids and 17% of the population is under the age of 15. If you want to live in an area where your kids will have friends they can grow up with, and constant availability of friends and playdates, Burlington has it all.

The Diverse Schools

Burlington is home to some of the best schools in the region, and regardless of your child’s needs, interests, or goals, there is a school here that can help them achieve their academic goals. With a combination of great public schools, exclusive private schools, faith-based, French immersion, and gifted programs, Burlington has a lot to offer in the way of academic success.

But how do you know which Burlington school is right for your child? The Fraser Institute is a great place to start. Or you can take a look at our blog on the top schools in Burlington, Ontario right here.

Since Burlington is situated between Hamilton and Oakville, the city also has easy access to excellent post-secondary schools like McMaster University or Sheridan College.

Safety

According to Numbeo, Burlington has an extremely low crime index and a high safety index. In general, people in Burlington feel safe walking during the day and at night, and the risk of crimes such as theft or assault is quite low.

Burlington is home to the Joseph Brant Hospital, a highly-regarded and innovative healthcare centre. Residents in Burlington also have access to numerous specialty hospitals such as the Hospital for Sick Children located in nearby Toronto.

Transportation

With easy access to public transit and the GO Train, getting around Burlington is easy. If you’re a parent who spends a lot of time chauffeuring kids from school to after-school activities, you’ll want to know your way around Burlington. Luckily for drivers, the city has many main arterial roads and much of the city has easy access to Highway 403 and Lake Shore Road to the south.

The Homes

Burlington has a diverse range of properties. From beautiful detached houses in quiet, leafy neighbourhoods, to spacious condos in luxury buildings, there’s a property type to suit your unique family unit.

It’s quite common to see young families start out in Burlington condos and then move up to a lovely detached home in a more suburban neighbourhood close to great amenities, such as schools, daycares, public parks, and more.

Interested in seeing what’s available right now in Burlington? Search our latest listings to find your next family home here.

Parks and Recreation

With such a young, vibrant, and diverse community, Burlington has a lot of services on offer. The city has incredible parks (more than 1,436 acres of parks, to be exact!), walking trails, bike paths, and community centres to serve an active community.

Whether you’re looking for skating rinks, public pools, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, play structures, and more, there’s always something to do in Burlington. The city is home to:

• 4 Indoor pools
• 2 Outdoor pools
• 3 Splash pads
• 12 ice pads
• 6 community centres

Before heading out to one of the city’s excellent parks or community centres, check out the City of Burlington website for the most up-to-date information to make sure the services you’re looking for are open.

If organized sports are not your family’s thing, Burlington is also renowned for its incredible hiking and nature trails. The Bruce Trail and Niagara Escarpment are located here, as well as The Waterfront Trail–a spectacular trail that traces the shores of Lake Ontario. Burlington is also home to beaches like those found at Beachway Park, perfect for enjoying a hot summer day with the family.

Burlington Neighbourhoods

Like all cities, Burlington is home to some great micro-communities. Some are more well-known for their family-friendly vibe, while others are preferred by young professionals. If you’re looking for the best of the best for family living in Burlington, neighbourhoods like Alton Village, Brant Hills, Roseland, and Tyandaga are some of the safest bets.

To learn more about Burlington and its various neighbourhoods, you can check out our Burlington neighbourhood guide right here.

If you’re anything like us, you absolutely live for the fall. While fall can definitely feel like one of our shorter seasons in Toronto and the GTA, we always do our best to make every minute of it count.

As home design enthusiasts, we never pass up on the opportunity to lean on our favourite fall influences to reimagine the interior design and decor aesthetic of our home. Especially seeing as fall is a time of year when we find ourselves entertaining family and friends even more frequently, with Thanksgiving and the cooler weather the main culprits there.

So, ahead of the coming cooler weather, we’re giving away some of our go-to decor ideas to help you and your home tastefully transition into one of Canada’s most scenic and beautiful seasons, fall.

Moody Lighting

When summer comes to an end, so do those extremely long days where the sky is light out from the time you wake up right up until eight or nine at night. Come fall, however, the days get shorter and shorter, and in our opinion, so should your home.

Don’t try to fight the loss of light in fall, but embrace it instead — especially when the sun starts to set. Once the light gets lower, turn down the dimmer switches on your larger lights (or easily install them if you don’t already have them) and enjoy the cozy lower lighting.

Better yet, place large lanterns in the corners of your main rooms while scattering candles across tables, shelves, and countertops too. When it gets darker outside, rely on candlelight as much as possible to set the tone for a very ‘hygge’ home environment.

We weren’t kidding when we said we were home design enthusiasts. See which of the biggest design trends we’re following at the moment by reading our recent post highlighting 6 Luxury Home Design Trends To Try Right Now.

Lay Down New Rugs

In the summertime, doormats and rugs aren’t all that essential, but when the weather starts to turn and walking outdoors becomes a little messier, they’re worth their weight in gold. Our advice is to include more area and sectional rugs with autumnal colours, textures, and tones into your space to really ramp up those fall vibes.

Thicker rugs with more plush padding are also much nicer on the feet when the weather drops down in the fall. Plus, everyone loves a festive welcome mat when stopping by for Thanksgiving or Halloween, so use this as another great opportunity to inject some fall fun into your doorway areas.

Revamp Your Tabletop

Remember what we said about entertaining? Well, seeing as the first place you need to address when throwing a cocktail or dinner party is your dining room table or kitchen island, this is another fantastic chance to include a bit of fall-themed decor in your home too.

Lookout for fabric elements like linens and runners with fall-influenced designs and deeper, more moody colours featured throughout them. Centrepieces are also fun to customize to a fall theme too — often a collection of heirloom squash or pumpkins are fun, or perhaps something even more rustic and natural like a refined wooden bowl or tray filled decoratively with vibrant leaves from outside.

On special occasions like Thanksgiving or Halloween, some fun festive chargers are also a great conversation point too.

Looking to add some more substantial ROI value to your home? Here are 5 Home Upgrades That Provide High Returns.

Big Cozy Blankets and Pillows

Nothing screams coziness like a big, thick blanket draped around your sitting chairs or couch — or even better, your shoulders! When it comes to the best blankets for the fall, we go by one rule; the thicker, the better.

Reach for sheepskins, faux furs, or really heavyweight plaids and flannels when deciding on your next living room or bedroom blanket addition. The same idea goes for bed throws, fireplace rugs, and even bathroom towels and linens. Remember; the thicker, the better.

You can also update the look and feel of your living room with new fall-inspired throw pillows and accent pieces. Darker colours and heavy textiles like velvet add weight to the room that can feel cozy and warm during the cooler fall season.

Switch Over Those Duvets

Speaking of bedding, the drop in temperatures come fall also means it’s time to stow away those lightweight linen duvets and break out the heavier-weight ones to ensure you stay nice and warm throughout the colder nights to come.

While opting for a heavyweight duvet is the main objective here, don’t miss out on the opportunity to incorporate a few more fall-themed patterns and colours onto your bed too. Look for calming earthy tones like browns, burgundies, and forest greens to really capitalize on the fall vibes here.

Are you thinking about listing your home for sale this fall? Get our tips on How To Prepare Your Home Like A Luxury Listing here!

Bring The Outdoors In

One of the main reasons we love fall so much is because of the stunning transition between summer and winter in nature, which is why we love getting outside as much as possible. When you’re inside at home, however, we still encourage you to welcome as much of the beautiful outdoors into your home as you can as well.

Tasteful homages to the outdoors through decor items like stacks of rustic firewood, large wreaths on doorways and mantlepieces, and decorative branches and dried flowers in glass vases are all great ways to bring the outside, in.

If you want to get really creative with this nature-driven design concept, you could even head outside to collect some of the season’s most beautiful leaves and arrange them creatively in frames! Or, use stained and finished birch tree rings as coasters or placemats in the dining room. Just try your best not to bring any unwanted wildlife into your home while doing so!

Within the real estate industry, fall is also among the best times of the year to sell your home. So if you’ve been considering listing your home for sale, see how we can help you get ready through our guide below. Then, learn more about our home evaluation process to find out what your home’s current market value is.

• Our Seller’s Guide
• What’s Your Home Worth?

With a population of over 200,000 permanent residents, Oakville is easily Ontario’s largest town and is actually one of the most densely populated communities in the country, let alone the Greater Toronto Area. It’s also consistently ranked as one of the top mid-sized cities to live in Canada!

While Oakville is known for many things — like its picturesque natural surroundings, charming downtown core, and lust-worthy collection of homes — it’s also highly valued for how conducive it is to family living.

Although it’s hard for families to go wrong choosing essentially any Oakville neighbourhood to live in, there definitely are some areas that are more family-friendly than others.

To get our take on the top six family-friendly neighbourhoods in Oakville, read our guide here!

If you’re not fully familiar with Oakville in general just yet, you can get up-to-speed by reading our Oakville Community Guide first.

1. West Oak Trails

First up on our list is the relatively new Oakville development of West Oak Trails. Set in the northwestern end of Oakville, this scenic development was mostly comprised of farm fields and open land up until the 1990s and early 2000s when local planning commissions turned the area into a planned residential neighbourhood.

As you may have deciphered from the name, West Oak Trails gets its name from the many nature trails, greenbelts, and ravines that run through this naturally beautiful area. Naturally hilly in its topography, West Oak Trails is a great place for hiking, running, biking, and many other outdoor activities. 

The trails are supplemented by direct access to the Sixteen Mile Creek that runs directly through the neighbourhood, along with the many public parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and even a splash pad for younger kids!

West Oak Trails is the ideal neighbourhood for children with a sense of adventure and is also home to some of Oakville’s highest-ranking schools. For instance, Oakville’s best-ranked public school, Captain R. Wilson, is located right here in West Oak Trails, along with several other great local institutions.

As far as the homes go, it’s harder to find a more ideal home for a child to grow up in than the quintessential West Oak Trails home. Mostly made up of detached single-family dwellings set on generous lots with ample room for kids to grow and play in, this planned development really hits the mark for family living.

And, one of the best parts about West Oak Trails being a planned community is that residents’ daily essentials are always close by. Whether it’s groceries, household essentials, recreational facilities, or top-notch schools, you’ll find everything is nearby when living here.

There’s a reason why West Oak Trails is one of Oakville’s most celebrated family-friendly neighbourhoods. To find out more about this amazing community, read up on our West Oak Trails Neighbourhood Guide here!

2. Glen Abbey

Directly south of West Oak Trails is the next family-friendly neighbourhood on our list, Glen Abbey. Home to arguably Canada’s most famous and revered golf destinations, the Glen Abbey Golf Club, this Oakville neighbourhood was literally built around the spectacular club and course.

Since the start of Glen Abbey’s residential development back in the 1980s, this community has gone from Oakville suburbia to one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in the Oakville area — and you don’t need to love golf to see why. Clearly in touch with nature, there are a plethora of amazing outdoor amenities close by in Glen Abbey, which is perfect for active, outdoor-oriented children.

Alongside the collection of outdoor hiking trails and public parks is the Glen Abbey Community Centre, which is a newly constructed sports facility featuring an indoor ice skating arena, a double gym and fitness centre, multiple squash courts, and a recreational swimming pool featuring a waterslide. 

It’s not all play all the time for the local kids of Glen Abbey, however, especially seeing as the neighbourhood boasts some of Oakville’s best schools as well. Top-ranking names like Mother Teresa Elementary, St. Bernadette Elementary, Abbey Park Secondary, and T.A. Blakelock Secondary, among many others, all welcome children from the Glen Abbey area.

In terms of the local real estate, the homes here are practically all tailor-made for family lifestyles. Whether you’re located nearer to the legendary Glen Abbey Golf Course or further away in more recently developed suburban areas, you’ll find detached single-family homes on lush green lots account for most of the residences here.

With the local shopping centre, Abbey Plaza, located just a few minutes drive away from anywhere in Glen Abbey, amenities like grocery stores, retail shops, essential services, and a fine selection of cafes and restaurants are all always close by.

Does Glen Abbey sound like the perfect neighbourhood for you and your family? Learn a little more about the area in our Glen Abbey Neighbourhood Guide here.

3. Eastlake (Ford)

Situated on the other side of town, Eastlake (also known as Ford) can be found in the southeast corner of Oakville set directly against the sparkling shores of Lake Ontario. Certainly one of Oakville’s prettiest neighbourhoods, Eastlake is also highly conducive to family life — especially for families whose parents regularly commute into nearby cities like Toronto.

With direct access to major highways and being one of Oakville’s easternmost neighbourhoods, many homeowners here enjoy the easy commute into Toronto for work. While this is a very common neighbourhood for daily commuting workers from in Oakville to live in, it lacks nothing when it comes to community togetherness and tight-knit neighbourly vibes.

Need some more Oakville neighbourhood inspiration? Find out which 5 Beautiful Oakville Neighbourhoods To Call Home you’re best suited to.

Bound by a set of parks, pathways, playgrounds, and trails, this tranquil heavily wooded neighbourhood offers a safe setting for parents and children to play and explore while simultaneously being close to home and the action of the breathtaking waterfront area.

Aside from Eastlake’s thriving waterfront area, access to all of the amazing amenities of downtown Oakville is just a five-minute drive away, meaning Eastlake residents regularly enjoy all of the perks of being close to Oakville’s celebrated shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.

Parents will be thrilled to know that Oakville’s top-rated high school, Oakville Trafalgar High, is also local to the Eastlake neighbourhood, along with several other well-acclaimed schools including St. Vincent Elementary, St. Joseph Elementary, St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary, and many others.

As for the homes in Eastlake, there’s a great mix of property sizes, types, and costs here. Down by the waterfront is where you’ll see some of the largest, most expensive estate homes anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area, while further north is where many smaller and single-storey family homes are located.

Those who live in Eastlake tend to genuinely love it. Learn more about what life is like there by reading our Eastlake Neighbourhood Guide now.

4. Joshua Creek

Like West Oak Trails, the neighbourhood of Joshua Creek is one of Oakville’s newest suburban planned communities and was largely constructed around the 1990s to early 2000s. Located not far away from neighbouring communities like Mississauga and Toronto to the east, Joshua Creek is another popular neighbourhood for regular commuters.

However, Joshua Creek is perhaps most known for its fantastic green spaces and outdoor amenities, with several parks, trails, and sporting facilities all located within the neighbourhood. Several soccer and lacrosse fields can be found dispersed around the area, along with the nearby White Oaks Golf Course. 

For those families more into indoor sports and rec, the Joshua Creek Arena is a mecca for indoor winter sports like hockey and skating while the Iroquois Ridge Community Centre has a professional-grade, 25-metre, eight-lane swimming pool plus a family-friendly leisure pool complete with a water slide.

Joshua Creek doesn’t fall short in the education department either, with an almost overwhelming amount of choice between local public, Catholic, and private institutions. Among the most popular choices for families and students are St. Marguerite d’Youville Elementary, Joshua Creek Elementary, Holy Trinity Secondary, and Iroquois Ridge Secondary, just to name a few.

Families also love Joshua Creek for its wide variety of newly built homes. As the majority of families that live in Joshua Creek fall under the successful well-to-do category — with many families in dual-income households — the detached houses and townhomes are closer to the ‘luxury’ category than anything else.

 There’s everything to love about living in Joshua Creek. See what else makes this Oakville neighbourhood so special by visiting our Joshua Creek Neighbourhood Guide here!

5. Clearview

Not far away from Joshua Creek in Oakville’s east end is the neighbourhood of Clearview, also known as Sherwood Heights, and yet another highly desirable place to live for families — especially those who make regular commutes into Toronto and other surrounding areas east of Oakville.

You can think of Clearview as your classic suburban neighbourhood, comprised of safe, clean streets surrounded by lush green lawns and mature trees and populated by friendly homeowners and their growing families.

Here, space is the name of the game. Residents of Clearview thoroughly enjoy being encompassed in an abundance of parks and greenery, which makes sense seeing as the area we know as Clearview today was once a farming community. Now, this hilly Oakville neighbourhood is home to many parks and trails, as well as Kingsford Park, a large community-run garden.

It isn’t all about the outdoors in Clearview, however. Residents also love taking advantage of the many retail and shopping areas nearby too, with destinations like the Upper Oakville Shopping Centre and several other local shopping plazas dedicated to serving the Clearview public.

Families with school-aged children will have no problem finding a local institution for their kids, no matter which grade level they are at. From Kindergarten all the way through to Grade 12, there are great options for schools here. Lookout out for schools like St. Luke Elementary, St. Joseph Catholic Elementary, and St. Thomas Aquinas Elementary among others.

The local real estate scene in Clearview is also a great selling point for families, as this Oakville neighbourhood is full of spacious homes with generous yards. It’s not uncommon to find three or four-bedroom homes here well into the 3,000 square foot range, and perhaps even larger. While some homes are smaller in size, most of them are detached and have plenty of space for family fun.

Eager to learn more about what it’s like to live in Clearview? Read our Clearview Neighbourhood Guide for even more info.

6. The Preserve

While the Toronto Real Estate Board technically considers The Preserve ‘Rural Oakville,’ you won’t catch many Oakville locals referring to this popular new neighbourhood the same way. 

Instead, The Preserve — Oakville’s newest neighbourhood — has been welcomed with open arms into the community because of its fantastic family-friendly characteristics and warm local residents. 

The Preserve is located in Oakville’s northern end, just past the Uptown Core neighbourhood. If you know Oakville’s geography at all, the best way to explain where The Preserve is located is basically the stretch north of Dundas from Sixth Line to Neyagawa.

Strategically situated right next to some of Oakville’s most beautiful natural areas, The Preserve boasts instant access to multiple public parks and gardens across the community. In fact, enjoying nature and staying outside is extremely easy in The Preserve, as most of the neighbourhood’s local shops and amenities are well within walking distance for the local residents.

And when it comes to the local residents, this brand-new suburban neighbourhood is absolutely filled with families — and it’s easy to see why. With shopping close at hand (the Fortino’s plaza is just a stone’s throw away) and plenty of places for organized sports (check out the sports complex at Neyagawa), there’s nothing kids are left needing.

Plus, in the education department, the local schools near The Preserve are also well regarded. For starters, Oodenawi Public School is one of Oakville’s highest-ranking elementary schools in the north end! Then you also have St. Gregory The Great Catholic Elementary School, plus Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School as options too.

Are you still not sure which local Oakville schools you should be sending your children to? Find out which ones are our top picks here:

• 5 Highly-Reputable Schools in Oakville
• Private Schools In The West GTA: Our Top Picks

Everybody knows what a luxury listing looks like when they see one. Think spectacular homes set on lush, perfectly manicured green lots, featuring distinctive architectural details, eye-catching interior design and staged to perfection.

Plus, don’t forget about the photography, videography, and marketing materials to make it look even better.

There’s actually an art to making them appear that glamorous and enticing, and it comes down to how they’re prepared.

Although even the very top Realtors® aren’t able to magically make a home larger or more secluded than it actually is, there are a few tricks of the trade that can make a home appear much more desirable before it’s listed.

So, if you’re interested in learning more about how you can make your home look more like a luxury listing — and thereby command a more ‘luxury’ price for it — here are a few of the most effective ways you can prepare your home before you list it for sale.

Learn more about our detailed luxury home prep process and how we can help you sell your home for its maximum value in our Seller’s Guide here.

Start Outside

The very best agents know that every luxury home should start pre-listing preparations outside. Why? Because it’s likely to be the first image of your home that appears on a feature sheet or marketing material and is always the very first part of your home a visiting buyer will see in person.

We call this ‘curb appeal,’ because that’s exactly what it is — how strong the appeal of your home is from a curbside view. Ensuring you make a potential buyer’s first impression of your home as good as it can be from the get-go is the best way to set your sale up for success.

How you initiate that takes a little foresight and planning, however. The best route to take here is to retain the services of a professional landscaper. If that isn’t an option you’d like to pursue, we’d at the very least recommend you consult one as to what you can do on your own.

No matter which way you go, doing things like removing any damaged or dying plants and shrubs from your yard, re-laying sod where your grass has gone yellow or patchy, putting down a fresh layer of mulch or wood chips, adding beautiful planters at the entrance and repainting any accents like doors, window frames, and mailboxes in a fresh and contemporary colour are all great first steps.

At the Tanya Crepulja Team, we rely on a core team of experienced home service and industry professionals to supplement our comprehensive list of real estate services. Find out more about who makes up our suite of recommended professionals here.

Ruthlessly Declutter

Heading inside, the first thing you can do to enhance the appeal to potential Buyers is to ruthlessly declutter your home. Here, the practice of ‘less is more’ should be very much central to what you try to achieve with your declutter.

Your goal here should be to essentially remove any and all unnecessary or superfluous items from your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and doorways and high-use areas like countertops and kitchens. Remove and store all personal items like diplomas, religious items, family photos, and all the extra ‘stuff’. The main objective is to minimize distractions or obstructions of potential Buyers’ sightlines when visiting your home.

Find Neutrality

Also, it’s important that you remove any more unique, personality-driven artwork or decor items unless they are neutral pieces that tie in with the staging and design element that we offer our clients when listing their home. Even though you might have a keen eye for interior design, we are looking to appeal to a wider audience thus paring down on some very bold or dark pieces of art as they can also negatively impact the impression of the home in the photography.

The primary mission for your pre-list decluttering is to make your home feel as neutral as possible. Not only will that leave a blank canvas for a high-end professional home stager to work their magic, but it also opens the door for the widest audience of potential Buyers to envision themselves living in your space.

One of the best things to keep in mind here is that the luxury home buyer audience is diverse. Not all of your potential Buyers will have the same taste and design preferences, which is why it’s important you leave your home looking as neutral and decluttered as possible for when they come to see it. That way, nothing will distract them from picturing their future lives in your home.

Want to see what the latest luxury listings currently available for sale look like? Visit our Featured Listings page here to see what today’s luxury market is like.

Stellar Staging

Now that your home has been thoroughly decluttered, it’s ready to be strategically re-filled by a professional home stager. We always recommend our selling clients work with one of our high-end luxury home stagers, our trusted team are some of the top property stylists in the city. In fact, we believe in the value of professional staging so much that we offer it complementary to our Seller clients.

When talking about staging, the difference between stylish and true luxury homes is how the furniture and overall design of your home perform, not just how your home looks. While you might already have a collection of fantastically tasteful furniture pieces, professional staging is much more focused on creating optimal flow and visual experience for visiting Buyers.

Here, professional stagers use tried-and-tested techniques like the placement and layout of space-appropriate furniture, which optimizes foot traffic and the optical interpretation of room sizes for visiting Buyers. Additionally, stagers expertly know how to use strategically placed mirrors and colour theory to enhance the visual depth of individual rooms.

These, along with many more subtle techniques of staging have the power to make a huge impact on how visitors perceive and experience your home. An experienced professional stager truly knows how to transform even the most average of spaces into luxurious-feeling homes.

Looking for some design inspiration to take your luxury listing up to the next level? Here are 6 Luxury Home Design Trends To Try Right Now.

Re-Think Your Lighting

One of the most underappreciated (and often forgotten) aspects of creating a luxury home showing experience comes down to what your home’s lighting is like. The reason being is that great lighting often goes unnoticed, while poor lighting sticks out like a sore thumb.

While most agents will give you basic lighting recommendations like “turn on all of your light fixtures and open up your blinds,” an agent who regularly lists luxury homes knows how to take things a step further.

With the ultimate goal in mind to make your home feel as light, airy, and serene as possible, a few simple lighting tricks can go a long way. Our first recommendation is to address any harsh fluorescent or LED lights — not only do these give off undesirable ambiance, but they create the impression of intensity in a home, which isn’t necessarily the tranquil appeal luxury homebuyers are looking for.

What Kind of Lighting Works?

Instead, look to install dimmer switches or swap out your bulbs for softer, more complimentary lighting. Once you’ve done that, think about which parts of your home would benefit from additional lighting whether it’s pot lights or fixtures that will complement the room it’s in. Light fixtures in your home should be a cohesive look throughout. Often times a homeowner will overlook the lighting, however, it’s like jewellery to an outfit – you can be dressed to the 9’s but without the accent jewellery the outfit won’t be a perfect 10. Don’t forget to clean all light fixtures as they should not be covered in cobwebs – they should be free of dust and sparkling clean.

Next, it’s vital that you try to include as much natural light in your home as possible. That means opening up all of your windows and interior doors and drawing back any curtains or shades. Hire window cleaners to thoroughly clean the windows inside and out otherwise, it will be a negative impression to a potential Buyer.

A tip to enhance the feeling of airy natural light, you can strategically place mirrors adjacent to windows to reflect new natural light into other spaces.

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In constantly expanding cities like Toronto, the construction never really stops. While it may feel like the city is already big enough now, real estate developers are always making plans for what they believe the city may need a few years in advance.

As developers make plans behind closed doors about what the future of our city will look like, lots of people interested in Toronto’s real estate economy patiently wait for any news about upcoming pre-construction developments.

Whether they’re potential buyers, real estate investors, or individuals eager to know how the GTA will change over the next few years, pre-construction real estate projects always seem to drum up a lot of interest.

As GTA real estate industry professionals, we’re among the first to know about those upcoming pre-construction developments. Which is why we’re sharing our insider insight into the 7 most interesting new pre-construction projects with you here.

1. Pier 27 — Phase 3

Located at 25 and 35 Queens Quay East in Toronto, Phase 3 of the Cityzen development group’s Pier 27 project is due to begin construction in this highly desirable area of the city’s harbourfront along Queens Quay.

The final stage of the long-term development project called Pier 27, Phase 3 will include two new buildings and several commercial and retail spaces once opened. Phase 3’s west building is projected to be 45 storeys tall with the capacity to house 449 residential units, with the east building projected to be 11 storeys tall and have the capacity to house 136 residential units.

Based on the success of Pier 27’s initial two stages, we believe that Phase 3 will see similar success. Once completed, Phase 3 will have rounded out this longstanding harbourfront development project by development group Cityzen, who has been very active in the ​​development and home building industry for over 30 years.

Although Phase 3 is still in its early planning stages, we definitely think this will be a fantastic project for investors and homeowners alike, especially given the reputation for quality and design Cityzen group and Pier 27 already have within Toronto.

Are you a first-time homebuyer or simply on the search for a smoother, more comfortable approach to buying real estate? Our client-first homebuying process is designed to maximize your enjoyment of your next real estate purchase. Get more detailed information about how we can help you buy your next home in our complimentary Buyer’s Guide here.

2. Natasha Residences

Well-known Toronto-based real estate development company Lanterra Developments has come together to plan the latest of their comprehensive set of downtown Toronto condo developments, Natasha Residences.

Found at 263 Adelaide Street West near John Street in Toronto’s Entertainment District, Natasha Residences will be set in a prime location within one of the city’s most busy and vibrant neighbourhoods.

Working closely with fellow Canada-based architecture, design, and urbanism firm BDP Quadrangle, Lanterra has designed Natasha Residences to hold 438 individual suites. Set to launch in the summer of 2021, pricing for units will begin within the $500,000 range.

While Lanterra Developments isn’t giving away too much just yet about Natasha Residences just yet, you can register here to learn about the project when more information becomes available.

There’s never a dull moment in Toronto’s Downtown West neighbourhood, which is where the Natasha Residences will be based. Learn more about it in our Dowtown West Neighbourhood Guide here.

3. The Capitol Residences

Based in both Toronto and New York City, Madison Group is a real estate development group that is responsible for creating some of the most high-quality and desirable real estate developments on the east coast of North America.

From standalone single-family homes to entire high-rise condo buildings, Madison Group stands for quality and innovation in the real estate economy, which has been exemplified in their latest Toronto project, The Capitol Residences.

Located at 2500 Yonge Street, just a few streets north of Eglinton Avenue, The Capitol Residences is a new condo development that has been built above and around the iconic Capitol Theatre. As an homage to the legendary theatre based in North Toronto, The Capitol Residences will preserve much of the theatre’s original facade, with the additional architectural elements honouring the early-20th century Classical Revival style.

Slated to be 14 storeys tall and housing 145 separate units, The Capitol Residences is set to make a dramatic entrance to the mid-town market. The project as a whole is earmarked to launch by mid-2021, however, Madison Group is currently taking registrations.

Yonge and Eglinton is a mid-town neighbourhood that’s seen some major development in recent years. Learn more about what the new-look community has to offer in our Yonge and Eglinton Neighbourhood Guide here.

4. LeftBank

Just a few years ago, many would have avoided Toronto’s Regent Park neighbourhood due to low safety ratings and underdevelopment by the city. Today, however, Regent Park looks to have secured quite a bright future for itself.

It’s no coincidence that big-name real estate development group Broccolini has something to do with that shift, as their plans for LeftBank, a new urban development community, are based within the Regent Park area.

Located at 91 River Street at the intersection of River Street and Dundas Street East, LeftBank’s primary condo development building will be a 34-storey skyscraper, housing a projected 385 suites.

Featuring modern, eye-catching designs and lust-worthy views overlooking Toronto’s Don River, it’s rumoured that Broccolini will price their new units starting no lower than the $500,000 price range.

With an anticipated launch date of 2025, there’s still time to wait and see how Regent Park will continue to transform in the years to come before investing in LeftBank. However, if Broccolini’s involved with the project, it’s probably a good indication that any money you put down will prove to be spent well.

Not convinced about Regent Park just yet? What if we told you it was featured as one of our ​​5 Up-And-Coming Neighbourhoods For Investment In Toronto blog post?

5. The Mason at Brightwater

Currently in its pre-construction phase, Brightwater is a brand-new urban waterfront planned community located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Port Credit in Mississauga.

Surrounded by many pre-existing, thoroughly popular shops, restaurants, and small businesses, Brightwater will be a massive new development entering into an already attractive space along Mississauga’s stretch of Lake Ontario shoreline.

This projected new Port Credit development community is a collaborative effort between builders Kilmer Group, Diamondcorp, Dream, and Fram + Slokker, with architecture firm architectsAlliance responsible for heading the designs.

Currently, Brightwater’s individual condo building, The Mason, which is set to be located at 70 Mississauga Road South, is now accepting registrations. The Mason will have a total of 160 units with pricing starting from the high $500,000’s.

For those interested in learning more about purchasing a unit at The Mason within this enormous new Port Credit development community, unit sales will be exclusively done through Baker Real Estate Incorporated, beginning in the summer of 2021.

Port Credit is one of the best neighbourhoods in Mississauga to live in. So much so that we wrote a detailed Port Credit neighbourhood guide here!

6. North Oak 2

While international real estate development group Minto has already made a big impression on the desirable North Oakville area, they haven’t planned to slow down the development of their master-planned community, North Oakvillage, just yet.

The newest addition to Minto’s popular Oakvillage community will be the North Oak 2 condo building, which will be located at 3315 Trafalgar Road at the intersection of Dundas Street East and Trafalgar Road in North Oakville.

Minto has made the environmental ethos of North Oak 2 abundantly clear from the project’s outset — the development company wants the future residents of the Oakvillage condo building to feel a closer connection to nature. Early design rendering of North Oak 2 show the heavy inclusion of plants, green tech, and natural green spaces both within and surrounding the building, which will additionally be located near 300 kilometres of nature trails and conservation areas.

Standing tall at 20 storeys high, North Oak 2 will be home to 374 individual units, starting at prices from the mid $500,000 range. North Oak 2 is expected to accommodate resident occupancy by Fall 2024, giving you ample time to start learning more about what it’s like to live in North Oakville.

Back in 2018, MoneySense Magazine voted Oakville as the Best Place To Live In Canada. While we didn’t get to vote in that particular election, we have every reason to agree with the verdict. Here’s why:

• 5 Beautiful Oakville Neighbourhoods To Call Home
• 4 Highly-Reputable Schools In Oakville
• Our Neighbourhood Guide To Oakville

7. EX3

Development company Camrost Felcorp’s new four-tower development community, The Exchange District, is touted to begin construction on the final piece of their planned community, Exchange District 3 (also known as EX3).

Located at 151 City Centre Drive in Mississauga, directly across the street from Square One, Canada’s second-largest shopping mall, EX3 will be about as centrally located in Mississauga as you could ask for. A wide selection of shops, restaurants, public transit, and local amenities will be just steps away from the future residents of EX3, as Camrost Felcorp seeks to provide the ultimate modern residential living experience in downtown Mississauga.

Measuring in at a projected 72 stories, EX3 promises to be one of the tallest buildings in the area, and will boast expansive views of the city and neighbouring communities from all vantage points.

Registration for units within EX3 will begin the second week of August 2021, so if you’re keen to make your interest in securing a unit known early on, don’t wait too long to contact us directly here.

Eager to learn more about what it’s like to live in Mississauga? Our local Mississauga real estate expertise can help. Do some more research by reading our latest Mississauga-focused content here!

• Our Comprehensive Mississauga Neighbourhoods Guide
• 5 Family-Friendly Mississauga Neighbourhoods To Call Home
• 5 Top-Notch Schools In Mississauga
• Your Mississauga Summer Patio Guide

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been nominated as ‘Best Real Estate Agent in Mississauga’ and ‘Best Real Estate Broker’ for the 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards! This is incredible and such an honour.

⁣I would love to land in the top finalists and need your help to do so! Please VOTE/nominate me by going to the page links below, and click on the green Nominate button next to my name.⁣

Voting can be done daily and ends July 29th. ⁣

⁣Here are the links to vote:

You can vote for me in the Real Estate Agent Category here.

And you can vote for me in the Real Estate Broker Category here.

Thank you in advance for the support!

⁣As always, I’m greatly appreciative of all clients past and present that we have had the pleasure to serve for real estate buying, selling, or investing needs in Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, and west GTA. Thank you for your trust over the years and for the opportunity to be of service to you and those you know.

⁣We truly love what we do and are passionate about providing you with an exceptional real estate experience.

If you’re thinking to buy or sell real estate let’s chat about your goals and how we can achieve them. Get in touch anytime by phone/text at 647-293-3785.

Summer is finally in full swing. Rising temperatures and sunny days give way to our favourite time of year–patio season.  Get ready for some delicious fare with beautiful scenery and fresh air to go along with the menu.  

Here are some of our favourite Mississauga summer patios…

Snug Harbour Seafood Bar & Grill

With a beautiful waterfront patio, Snug Harbour Seafood Bar & Grill is a premier destination for outdoor dining in Mississauga. If you’re a seafood lover looking for a coastal vibe this summer, Snug Harbour is the place to go. Whether you’re craving some fresh oysters or you prefer a traditional chowder or mouthwatering seafood ravioli, Snug Harbour has what you’re looking for, served on a beautiful patio with stunning waterfront views in Port Credit. 

Posta Italbar Cucina

Craving some authentic Italian cuisine? Posta Italbar Cucina is a fantastic option for outdoor waterfront dining in Port Credit. With delicious pasta, authentic pizza, and award-winning artisanal gelato, there’s something for everyone. The sharable boards and fresh ricotta bar are a must-try but stay for the homemade pasta. With its delectable Italian dishes and superb waterfront ambience, you’ll get transported from Mississauga to the Amalfi Coast without having to board a plane. 

Want to know more about the vibrant Port Credit neighbourhood? Check out our community guide right here.

Alioli Ristorante

Alioli Ristrorante’s crisp white linen-covered tables and sparking tableware make dining out feel like a special occasion. However, its relaxed, friendly atmosphere will have you feeling like you’re part of the family. Serving Mississauga since 1996, Alioli Ristorante is an iconic establishment, and for good reason. With fresh, classic Italian dishes and a comprehensive wine list, their patio feels warm and welcoming with second-to-none service. 

Aioli is located in the heart of Mississauga’s City Centre neighbourhood. Learn more in our community guide right here.

For more about life in Mississauga, check out these related blogs:

• 5 Family-Friendly Mississauga Neighbourhoods to Call Home
• 5 Top-Notch Schools in Mississauga

Cuchulainn’s Irish Pub

This family-owned, authentic Irish pub is located in the heart of Streetsville in Mississauga. Its cosy patio wraps around the restaurant and is shaded by beautiful shrubbery and trees. You’ll truly feel like you’re dining in the Emerald Isle. Serving traditional Irish pub fares like Guinness stew, fish and chips, and deep-fried Snickers, Cuchulainn’s patio is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air and traditional Irish comfort food. 

Goodfellas’s Pizza 

This local chain of wood oven pizza restaurants is another Streetsville gem. With fresh ingredients and a bistro-style atmosphere on the patio, Goodfella’s Pizza is a great spot to check out if you’re craving an authentic Italian experience. Fresh focaccia, burrata, and house-made pasta are just a few other dishes on offer if you aren’t in the mood for pizza. 

For more information on Streetsville check out our neighbourhood guide.

Apricot Tree Cafe 

This oasis of European cuisine definitely deserves a spot on your must-visit list! Originally a dessert and cake shop, Apricot Tree Cafe in the Sheridan neighbourhood now features delicious breakfast and dinner items. Whether you’re craving eggs benedict in the morning or a gourmet sandwich for lunch, there’s a menu item to suit your tastes any time of the day. 

Don’t forget to check out some of their signature dishes such as Apricot French Toast or the Maple Butter Crêpe. While you’re at it, why not try an apricot martini or mimosa to quench your thirst? A shady patio makes dining outdoors comfortable and scenic.

Sheridan is one of Mississauga’s best-loved communities. Find out why in our community guide right here.

Patio Season is Here

With so many Mississauga patios to choose from, you can enjoy a different experience all summer long. From authentic Italian to fresh seafood and classic international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Mississauga. 

Interested in learning more about Mississauga?

Take a look at our complete Mississauga Neighbourhood Guide for everything you need to know.

Read The Guide

If you’re like most parents, you want the very best education for your children. In many cases, that means opting for a private school. While there’s no shortage of options in the West GTA, finding the right one for your kids is crucial. It may even factor into where you decide to live!

Here are seven impressive private schools to consider in the West GTA…

1) Mentor College

Mentor College is one of the oldest private schools in Mississauga. It’s strongly committed to (among other things) preparing students for a successful university experience. It starts in junior kindergarten—and extends all the way to the end of high school. Small classes and parental involvement (which is strongly encouraged) are some of the biggest advantages of choosing this stellar learning environment.

With its focus on things like time management and study skills, this really is the place to send your kids if you’re thinking ahead to university. While it starts early, they’ll gain some of the most important knowledge they’ll need for the years ahead in high school.

2) Kendellhurst Academy

Another Mississauga entrant, Kendellhurst Academy, is a supportive school with an impressive reputation. This Streetsville learning environment, which runs from preschool to grade 8 (in two separate buildings for preschool and grade school), provides a nurturing environment focused on both personal and academic excellence. The curriculum stimulates students’ minds, spirits, creativity, and intelligence—all in an unpretentious environment. Above all, it’s child-centred—and the dedicated, hard-working educational team reflects that.

One thing that sets Kendellhurst apart is its recognition that teachers should facilitate learning for individual students. While all private institutions tend to be focused on performance, Kendellhurst staff understands that children learn in different ways—and assists them accordingly.

3) Lynn Rose Heights

Lynn Rose Heights is a private Mississauga school that educates children who are pre-k (as young as three) all the way up to grade 12. During their tenure, students are prepared for university, adulthood, and the world. The school aims to “cultivate lifelong learners in a multicultural community,” a goal that’s never been more important.

One of Lynn Rose Heights’ claims to fame is its status as an IB World School. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program offers four highly challenging, international educational programs for students aged 3-19.

4) St Mildred’s-Lightbourne School

St Mildred’s-Lightbourne School has roots that stretch back over 125 years, but its mandate has always been the same: to empower girls and young women. This Oakville learning institution is also a wonderful place to receive an education. Its 10-acre campus is equipped with outdoor classrooms and nature gardens, as well as two art studios, two gyms, a black box theatre, a dining hall, and more.

From preschool to senior school, girls enjoy an incredible mix of programs—including everything from STEM and robotics to global citizenship. It doesn’t get more well-rounded than that.

5) Linbrook School

Linbrook is an independent school for boys. This Oakville institution is all about helping students discover their interests. With a current average class size of 18, teachers have plenty of time to do just that. From access to technology to hands-on learning exercises, boys at Linbrook have opportunities to grow and explore in the classroom every day.

If your son is all about extracurriculars, they’re bound to be excited by the school’s selection. There’s no doubt that they’ll find just the right activity, whether it’s computer coding club, martial arts, or private music lessons.

6) Walden International School

With a motto like “making good people,” it’s fair to expect a lot from Walden International School. This learning institution (which serves students from preschool to grade 8) provides enriched studies. Subjects run the gamut and include STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Walden is also an IB school.

This Oakville gem is also known for offering mindful meditation in the classroom. The school’s website notes that there’s research suggesting it can lead to better math scores, fewer ADHD symptoms, and kinder behaviour (among other benefits).

7) Fern Hill School

One of the best private schools in the West GTA, Fern Hill, has campuses in Burlington and Oakville. Both sit on large pieces of land, educate students from preschool to grade 8, and offer an impressive litany of programs. From Mandarin to math contests to dramatic art, students can explore and find their passions.

Fern Hill School is unique in its subject-specific teaching approach, where each staff member specializes in one area. As opposed to each grade being assigned a teacher, students are given the opportunity to interact and connect with a variety of them throughout the day.

Searching for a home in a great school district in the GTA? We’d love to help—get in touch to take the first step!

Have you been thinking about selling your home? Whether you take this step in the near future or years down the line, ensuring the highest possible return is the goal. Fortunately, there are home renovations you can undertake to make your property feel more contemporary—and maximize your selling price when you put it on the market.

Here are five home upgrades that can offer high returns when it comes time to sell…

1) Refreshing your kitchen

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and buyers will look closely at it. While you may not want to do a complete overhaul (a process that can require more time and money than many homeowners are comfortable with), a few strategic updates can go a long way. For example, refacing or even just repainting your cabinet doors is a cost-effective way to modernize your space. Swapping in new hardware (like your faucets and drawer pulls) is another way to give your kitchen a facelift.

2) Replacing your countertops

Updating your countertops can also transform the look and feel of your kitchen—and provide a significant return. Specifically, linoleum and laminate can, in many cases, look outdated. For this reason, you may want to consider upgrading. Quartz provides a modern look that mimics marble, at a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking for something on-trend and upscale, consider a waterfall countertop or marble backsplash.

3) Updating your bathroom

Bathrooms can make or break a home sale—and outdated flooring is one of the biggest turnoffs. Fortunately, upgrading to porcelain, ceramic, or stone tile can instantly provide a more sophisticated look. Another improvement that typically offers strong returns is ditching your shower-bathtub combo. A standalone soak tub or sleek glass stall will prove more appealing to buyers. That said, remember that every single-family home should ideally have a tub in at least one bathroom.

4) Landscaping

When it comes to home improvements, landscaping is often overlooked. That’s too bad, because it can add value of up to 20 per cent to your property. Investing in lawn care and ornamental trees or shrubs can go a long way towards boosting your home’s appeal. If you want to take things a step further, a pools, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, or contemporary patio can help you create a beautiful oasis that will draw buyers in.

5) A coat of paint

Painting is one of the simplest ways to refresh your living space. In fact, adding the right colour can do more than create a pleasant atmosphere—it can also put thousands of extra dollars in your pocket when you sell. Light neutrals are a safe bet because they appeal to the largest possible pool of buyers. Greys, whites, and beiges all tend to work well, though the ideal shade may depend on which room you’re painting. For example, blue bathrooms and taupe living rooms are both shown to boost seller returns.

The key takeaway

Performing the right home upgrades can boost your bottom line when it comes time to sell, but it’s important to be strategic. The right improvements will depend on a variety of factors, from what your timeline looks like to the current condition of your home. Your best bet is working with a local agent who knows the market—and what buyers are looking for!

Ready to talk about selling your home?

We’re here to help. Get in touch to take the first step toward a successful sale!

Let’s Connect

Mississauga is home to many wonderful, family-friendly neighbourhoods. When you’re choosing the right one, there are many things to consider—from local homes to public green spaces to convenient amenities. Of course, one of the most important may be the quality of local schools. By taking a look at some of the best places for children to receive an education, you can make a more informed decision about the community that makes sense for you.

Here are five highly-reputable schools for families in Mississauga to consider…

1) Burnhamthorpe Public School

Situated in east Mississauga’s Applewood neighbourhood, Burnhamthorpe Public School is a highly regarded local institution that celebrates inclusiveness and diversity within its walls. Featuring a regional French Immersion Program, Burnhamthorpe PS has been serving the community since the mid-1960s when the community of Applewood first started to change from a rural area to a more established residential neighbourhood. The school encourages parents to get involved and collaborate with teachers to promote student success

Students at this top-notch learning institution also score well with the EQAO, which is icing on the cake if you’re thinking about moving your family to Applewood.

2) Vista Heights Public School

The suburbs aren’t for everyone. If your family is looking for more of a heritage town vibe, Streetsville may be your ideal option. One of its best features is Vista Heights Public School. This local learning environment is known for its helpful staff, who aim to foster creativity and critical thinking skills in every child.

Vista Heights boasts impressive EQAO scores, which means the vast majority of its students are at or above the provincial standard for reading, writing, and math.

3) Mineola Public School

There’s more than one fantastic school in Mineola, Mississauga. In this highly-sought-after community, you’ll find another great place for kids to get a quality education. Mineola Public School receives a 7.4 from the Fraser Institute, along with solid EQAO scores. As part of its mission, this beloved institution provides a comprehensive learning approach that focuses on kids’ intellectual, social, emotional, creative, and physical development.

Would you like your kids to learn a second language? Mineola Public School offers a fantastic French immersion program—and the vast majority of students take advantage of it.

4) Whiteoaks Public School

Lorne Park is highly sought-after for its stunning homes, majestic greenery, and (of course) the great local places where kids can get an education. One of the most beloved is Whiteoaks Public School, and not just because of the fantastic EQAO its students receive.

The focus at Whiteoaks is on lifelong learning. Accordingly, the school takes a holistic approach—one that’s interested in creating responsible future citizens. By fostering a love of community and technology, staff help ensure that students are well prepared for the years and decades ahead!

5) St. John of the Cross School

If you live in Meadowvale, you also have the option of providing your kids with a strong, faith-based education. St. John of the Cross is a Catholic school with an exemplary reputation. It receives an incredible 9.5 from the Fraser Institute, and very impressive EQAO scores.

This Mississauga elementary school is devoted to providing a nurturing environment that fosters spiritual—and academic—growth. Through its curriculum and fundraising efforts, St. John of the Cross also places great emphasis on values rooted in faith and social justice.

Looking for the right home in the ideal family-friendly community? We can help—get in touch to benefit from our Mississauga expertise.

Are you gearing up to sell your home? If so, exposure will be the key to generating buyer interest and securing the best possible price. A talented, full-service agent will provide you with an in-depth marketing plan—one that includes social media promotion. In other words: to effectively spread the word about your home, choosing a professional with the right digital skills is crucial.

If you’re getting ready to sell, here are five reasons to work with an agent who’s a social media expert…

1) Social can capture active and passive buyers

It goes without saying that your property should be promoted in places where home hunters are actively searching. That said, your strategy should also target passive buyers (those who are ready to purchase but may not be looking in the moment when they come across your listing). Social media feeds are great places for home hunters to find your property by chance—and instantly fall in love.

2) It allows you to make the most of video

A recent study shows that seeing a video about a product or service increases the likelihood that buyers will purchase it by 64 per cent. This type of content has never been more important, and social media makes it easy to share. With the click of a button, buyers can tour or have an immersive experience with your home—and pass it along to others who may be interested.

3) Your images can take centre stage

Most buyers first get to know a home through photographs. More often than not, it’s what makes them pick up the phone to book a viewing. Social media is ideal for sharing these show-stopping images—and showcasing your property’s true potential. From Instagram to Facebook, your agent should know how to make your home pop on all relevant platforms.

4) Social advertising is powerful

Marketing a home on social media gives your agent the opportunity to find your most likely buyer. Advertising is the perfect way to do that. For example, on Facebook, you can target potential purchasers using highly-specific criteria—from age and location to job title and income level. That’s great news, since speaking to the right audience can improve your chances of a successful sale.

5) It’s based on trust

Social media is all about trust. Put simply, your followers are opting in to see regular content from you based on a preexisting relationship. Under these circumstances, they’re far more likely to engage with your home. It works the same way with your agent. The only difference is, a large percentage of their followers are actively searching for real estate!

An agent who’s a social media maven will know how to leverage the trust they’ve built with home hunters on your behalf. They’ll have an extensive network of potential buyers—and the expertise to capture their attention.

For all of these reasons and more, we’re proud to have earned a place on the list of top 100 real estate agents on social media. If you’re wondering what that could mean for your home sale, just ask! We’d love to tell you about our passion for all things marketing.

Ready to put your home on the market? Get in touch to learn more about how we’ll maximize its exposure for a successful sale.

Are you looking for the right place in Burlington to put down roots? It’s no secret that the city is great for families, and one of the reasons for that is its excellent schools. Fortunately, if you’re looking for the right neighbourhood, familiarizing yourself with local learning environments can help you make the right decision.

Here are five of the best schools that Burlington has to offer…

1) John T. Tuck Public School

Thinking of moving to Roseland? Along with its mature trees and fantastic mix of homes, this scenic neighbourhood is also a great place for your little ones to go to school. John T. Tuck earns a top-notch score of 8.8 from the Fraser Insitute—a well-known authority when it comes to Canadian education. Its strong curriculum, impressive library catalog, and fun “spirit days” (where students and staff dress up in unique outfits) are all well-known benefits of attendance. Kids also consistently receive high EQAO scores across reading, writing, and math.

2) Alton Village Public School

The neighbourhood of Alton Village has a whole lot to offer home buyers, from convenient parks and amenities to beautiful Niagara Escarpment views. It’s also an ideal community for families, in part because of the fantastic education that local kids receive. Alton Village Public School receives a Fraser Institute score of 7.9. Along with strong student academic performances, it provides an abundance of extracurriculars. Busy families also benefit from Alton Village’s before and after school care programs.

3) Orchard Park Public School

Thinking of moving to The Orchard? This family-friendly neighbourhood is known for a fantastic mix of homes, a stunning provincial park, and the top-notch learning environment that it offers local kids. With its Fraser Institute ranking of 7.6, Orchard Park Public School is highly sought-after. To start with, its curriculum has a strong STEAM focus (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Not only that, but students are known for their participation in events like the Thames Valley Science and Engineering Fair and the Caribou Cup (an international online math competition).

4) St. Anne Catholic School

Burlington parents who want their little ones to receive a high-quality Christian education are in luck. St. Anne Catholic School, located in charming Alton Village, gets a ranking of 6.2 from the Fraser Institute. Given the organization’s high standards, you can rest assured that this number is a sign of quality. St. Anne is also devoted to helping students become well-rounded citizens. From the environmental education it provides to its wide selection of extracurricular activities, there’s a lot to love about this Catholic gem.

5) Charles R. Beaudoin Public School

Millcroft is one of Burlington’s most in-demand communities—in part because of Charles R. Beaudoin Public School. This highly-reputable institution receives an impressive ranking of 8.1 from the Fraser Institute. Its attendees also earn consistently strong EQAO scores across reading, writing, and math. As part of its commitment to student success, the school provides extensive math and language resources online. For all of these reasons (and many others), Charles R. Beaudoin is one of the best schools in Burlington!

Looking for the right home in the ideal family-friendly community? We can help—get in touch to benefit from our Burlington expertise.

Are you planning on buying an income property? If so, congratulations are in order! Having sizeable savings—and the wisdom to invest at least part of them in local real estate—is a major achievement. It can mean a steady second source of income (not to mention the opportunity to cash in big when you sell down the line). If you’re about to start your search, knowing what to keep an eye out for is the first step!

If you’re ready to buy an income property, here are just a few things to look for…

A Great Location

The community—and even the nearest intersection—you choose for your income property will determine the type of tenant you attract.

If it’s a well-established neighbourhood with quiet streets and mature trees, it will likely appeal to families. If it’s an up-and-coming area (signs include proximity to in-demand locales and a growing number of independent shops and eateries), you can expect young professionals to come calling.

No matter which route you go, make sure the area you choose is a desirable one that will enable you to ask for an adequate amount in rent. The easiest way to determine if this is the case is by talking to local landlords.

You can access our extensive neighbourhood guides for Toronto and the West GTA here.

Numbers That Make Sense

When you’re buying an income property, there’s math involved. It’s not a perfect science, but having a strong sense of local demand, average rents, and the cost of maintaining the space in question can help you make a more informed decision.

First off, you’ll probably be looking for a cash-flow positive property (one that brings more money in each month than you’ll need to spend on its mortgage and upkeep). A property with negative cash flow can be a good investment, but it’s important to know the strategy involved if you go this route.

Another helpful formula is for the capitalization rate, which can help you estimate your return. It’s typically determined by taking your expected net operating income and dividing it by your property asset value. A qualified financial advisor can help you get a better handle on these metrics and how they work.

The Right Amenities

It’s not just the reputation and general character of a community that matters. Potential tenants are looking for an area that will suit their lifestyle, and that means having the right amenities nearby.

Whether it’s top-notch schools, parks, and grocery stores or buzz-worthy restaurants and nightlife, local amenities should match a specific demographic—and be highlighted in your marketing.

While neighbourhood and general proximity are important, your precise location can be, too. For example, many tenants will be willing to pay a little more each month to have a GO Station right outside their door.

Useful Features in an Income Property

While location counts for a lot, what’s inside matters too! From the layout of a living space to its number of bed and bathrooms to the size of its refrigerator, features can impact the rent you can reasonably charge.

Once again, it comes down to your most likely tenant. Do they have a car? If so, buying a place with a parking spot could be to your advantage. Will they require extra storage? Young families often do, which is worth considering if they’re your target demographic. It’s all about putting yourself in the shoes of renters. A skilled real estate professional—one who has a strong track record when it comes to working with investors—can help.

Future Development

When you’re assessing an area’s potential, think of the future as well as the present. Will there be a lot of upcoming development in the neighbourhood? If so, it could impact property values.

On the one hand, local development can be a sign that an area is on the rise. If sleek new condo buildings or trendy boutiques and small art galleries are in the works, you could be looking at an up-and-coming neighbourhood. That said, new buildings aren’t always good news. A tall condo tower next door to where you’re buying may block your tenant’s view—which could make your property less desirable. You can check with the city to find existing plans that are zoned for the area where you’re looking. (Information on Toronto available here)

Buying and operating an income property can be both profitable and rewarding—and finding an agent with the right expertise is the first step. Are you ready to find the right place for your investment?

Looking for an income property with potential? Get in touch to learn how I can help you find your ideal space!

There’s no doubt that Oakville is one of the best places to live in Canada. With its natural beauty, stunning homes, and friendly village feel, this charming town on the lake ranks high on many home buyers’ lists. There’s also a lot more variety here than you might think—in terms of both homes and communities. 

If you’re dreaming of making a move to Oakville, here are five neighbourhoods worth getting to know right now…

1) Bronte Village

Bronte Village has been around since the 1830s, making it one of the most well-established communities in Ontario. There are plenty of older homes here, but they’re mixed with newer options—including condos and townhouses.

Along with its rich history, the area is brimming with gorgeous green spaces. Local favourites include Bronte Creek Provincial Park (with its trails, pool, golf course, and more) and Shell Park North (which features tennis courts and a dog-friendly area, among other amenities). 

You’ll find a mix of shopping plazas along Lakeshore Road West, as well as one of the area’s most unique local attraction (Sovereign House, which showcases local history and art exhibits). 

Another fantastic perk of living in the area is Bronte Harbour. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a marina offering scenic views, an assortment of great restaurants (Bronte Boathouse and Plank Restobar are two must-try hotspots).

2) Old Oakville

It’s one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in town. We’re talking about Old Oakville, which provides scenic lakefront views, pretty parks, and top-notch schools (including the highly-reputable MacLachlan College). It’s also an ideal community for those seeking a heritage home. 

Fans of Tudor, Georgian, and Colonial houses will find plenty of selection in Old Oakville. Mixed in with these historic properties, there are also some beautiful modern options.  

Along with its homes, Old Oakville is known for its downtown business district. Take a stroll down Lakeshore, and you’ll find everything from designer clothing to upscale giftware to trendy art galleries. There are also plenty of buzz-worthy eateries here, including Noble Bistro (which has top chef JohnRoss Woodland at the helm).

3) Morrison

Looking for a custom-built home? If so, Morrison may be right for you. This charming area serves as a calm oasis (think mature trees and plenty of peace and quiet). Residents enjoy a friendly, small-town feel, along with properties that perfectly meet their needs.

Of course, the opulent homes here—especially those along Lakeshore—can come with some hefty price tags. Morrison is nicknamed the “Gold Coast,” in large part due to its spacious houses (many of which cost many millions of dollars). Big lots and close proximity to downtown Oakville also attract buyers to this area. 

Morrison is also where you’ll find some of the top schools (including private institutions) in the country. In fact, local test scores are 37% higher than the national average.

4) West Oak Trails & Westmount 

Oakville neighbourhoods don’t get more family-friendly than West Oak Trails. This relatively new community offers plenty of great places for kids to get an education (including but not limited to West Oak, Garth Webb, and Forest Trail schools). It’s also a highly convenient place to live, with its parks, recreational facilities, and access to GO Transit and highways.

Within West Oak Trails is an up-and-coming neighbourhood known as Westmount. Here you’ll find well-appointed homes that are, for the most part, smaller and more affordable than those you’ll find in other parts of Oakville. 

A mix of detached, semi-detached, and townhome options make Westmount a great area for first-time buyers. There are plenty of parks and playgrounds around, furthering its appeal with families.

5) Glen Abbey

This Oakville neighbourhood is known largely for the Glen Abbey Golf Club, which has hosted RBC Canadian Open and PGA events. Its gorgeous clubhouse and beautifully-designed course—which is one of the best-known in the country—make it a pleasure to visit for any golf enthusiast.

In Glen Abbey, you’ll find an abundance of houses in the Georgian and Tudor Revival styles, many of which sit on wide lots and back out onto a ravine. Locals also enjoy the area’s abundance of trails, parks, and playgrounds. 

Between its stately homes, world-class golf club, local conveniences (like the Abbey Plaza shopping centre), and bike-friendliness, this community is a homeowner’s dream.

Is Oakville Right for You?

Prospective Oakville homeowners have no shortage of neighbourhoods to consider. While the town is often associated with affluent buyers (and it’s true that there are plenty of local mega-mansions), you’ll find more opportunities at various price points than you might think. Are you ready to find your perfect place in one of Canada’s most beautiful communities?

Looking for your next home? I know Oakville better than anyone. Get in touch to learn how I can help you find your ideal property!

Have you been outbid on offers and are frustrated with buying a home in Toronto’s record breaking market? Here are 7 ways on how to win a property bidding war in Toronto and the GTA.

1.  Have a realistic expectation.  

The list price may sound enticing at $599,000 when you’ve qualified for a $625,000 mortgage…but will the home really sell for that? If comparable homes are selling for much more, you’ll know that the Seller and his agent priced low in order to generate interest from multiple buyers and drive up the price. Frustrating? Yes, it can be. In some cases the list price doesn’t mean anything. What is the home really worth as compared to other similar recent sales in the neighbourhood? If you know that they’re selling for considerably more than what the price is listed at and it’s beyond your means, move on to something else.

2.  Give yourself a healthy buffer amount to move up in price.  

The list price doesn’t mean anything (well, sometimes). What is the value to YOU? This ties into having a realistic expectation about the property. At the end of the day the value is what a Buyer is willing to pay. There will always be someone else who might feel it’s valued at more (or less). Give it your best, but do leave a bit of room to move up in price. Some Sellers will decide on the offer they’ll work with based on the first shot so you don’t want to lose an opportunity however, if there are other similar offers to yours the Seller might provide for a second chance – so having that buffer could mean getting the place in the end.

3.  Fulfill conditional obligations before offering on the property.  

Let’s face it, in Toronto’s heated real estate market if you have any conditions in the offer you are dead in the water. A Seller won’t take a chance with the sale falling through if for some reason the Buyer doesn’t receive financing approval, or wants to walk away because of findings in a home inspection report. This means possibly turning down a more attractive offer price for a FIRM sale. Once a firm offer has been accepted the parties are bound to that agreement and may not “walk away” for any reason. Btw, a smart Seller and his Realtor will have already had a home inspection completed prior to listing and the pre-listing home inspection report available for review. Ask to see it and if you feel that it’s not comprehensive or detailed enough there’s nothing stopping you from having your own home inspector view the property. Sure it’s an out of pocket expense before even knowing if you’ve got the home, but isn’t that $400-500 bucks worth the peace of mind?

4.  Think outside the box with your offer price.  

Almost everyone will round their numbers in an offer (for example $650,000 on a $600,000 list price) and or move up in increments of $500-$5000. This means that there’s a greater chance of someone else having the same offer amount as you so you will have to subsequently increase your offer in order to differentiate yourself. Why not do so right off the bat? Try a number that’s not predictable. Some cultures find certain numbers lucky so use this to your advantage if the Seller could relate. Also keep in mind that some find certain numbers unlucky, therefore don’t use those unlucky numbers in abundance.

5.  Have your deposit funds ready with the offer.  

What this tells the Seller is that you mean business! Having the deposit cheque together with the offer at presentation means that you’ve fulfilled this requirement in advance, whereas it’s typically provided within 24 business hours of an accepted offer. Leave those personal cheques at home. The deposit should be a money order or a certified cheque and in an amount that makes sense to the list price. Some would say 4-5% of an offer price is a good deposit, but this will vary based on purchase price and trends in that city. The larger the deposit the more attractive your offer will be to the Seller. Be sure to transfer funds from accounts in advance so it’s easy for you to access. If you bank with PC, for example you may need an extra day turnaround.   Always have deposit funds ready and accessible when you’re serious about buying a home.

6.  Add a personal touch.  

Most Sellers will want to know that their house is going to be lovingly enjoyed by the new owner for years to come. What is in in particular that you love about the property and the deciding factor for your purchase? Are you starting a family and find that this would be a perfect home to raise your children in? Does the home have unique features that you’d like to preserve? If the Seller can relate to you as the Buyer, you’ve already touched upon something that resonates with them which could help in you landing the purchase. It doesn’t hurt to write a letter or advise your Realtor to share some information about you to the Seller in order for them to understand why you’re buying the house.

7.  Get a great Realtor and let them help you.  

They do this every day, and can help you with the very best strategy. Ask a lot of questions and feel comfortable knowing that you have someone on your side who’s been through (and won) numerous bidding wars for other Buyers, and on the flip-side have also represented Sellers in multiple offers. This way you have the expertise from both ends.

As daunting as it may seem for a Buyer, the home buying process can be an enjoyable and exciting one. Arm yourself with this knowledge and the help from an experienced agent.

Get in touch with us if you’re ready to take the leap into home ownership. We promise to help you navigate the market  and get you into a new home in no time!

– Tanya

Join us at the first ever Streetsville Pumpkin Parade! Tuesday, November 1st from 6-8:30pm.

Wondering what to do with your pumpkins and jack o’ lantern’s now that Halloween has ended? If you’re in North or West Mississauga bring them to the Streetsville Pumpkin Parade! The Streetsville BIA invites local residents and businesses to bring jack o’lanterns to the Streetsville Village Square on November 1st at 6pm. Pumpkins will be lit up at 7pm for a beautiful display to see! Judges will vote for the most creative pumpkin and prizes awarded. Tea lights and lighters will be provided. Bring the entire family, grab a pumpkin spiced latte and enjoy the fun!

Don’t worry about bringing the pumpkins back home, the Region of Peel will collect them all for compost. Looking forward to seeing you there!

It’s no surprise that our Toronto housing market results just keep getting better as the year progresses. This one might go down in the record books as the best one yet.

As of October 2014:

Real estate sales up 10.9%.

The Toronto Real Estate Board reported 8051 transactions in September 2014, a 10.9% increase compared to September 2013. Despite a persistent shortage of listings in some market segments, we have experienced strong growth in sales suggesting buyers remain upbeat about purchasing a home. The majority of home buyers purchase a home using a mortgage. The share of the average household’s income dedicated to their mortgage payment remains affordable, which is why buyer interest has remained solid,” said Toronto Real Estate Board President, Paul Etherington.

Average selling price for homes in the GTA up $41,221 in one year.

The average selling price for September transactions was $573,676, up 7.7% from 2013. Average year-over-year price growth was strongest in the City of Toronto, both for low-rise home types like detached and semidetached houses and for condominium apartments. The average selling price year-to date was $563,813 – up 8.5%  compared to the first nine months of 2013. A Toronto detached home sold for an average of $951,792 in September 2014

Real estate sales growth expected to hit new sales record.

If the current pace of sales growth remains and is coupled with the multitude of willing buyers and short supply of listings, the Toronto housing market will translate into very strong annual rates of price growth in the fourth quarter. “We could be flirting with a new record for residential sales reported by TREB Members this year.” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Director of Market Analysis.

What does this mean to you as a Seller?

The fall market is the second best time of year to sell. Why wait for spring when plenty other Sellers will be listing as well? It’s an opportune time to take advantage of short supply and less competition. As we’ve seen there are plenty of Buyers that are ready, with mortgage pre-approvals obtained and ready to move forward on the right purchase.

Buyers – why wait? Prices only keep going up and show no signs of slowing down.

The heading is not meant to scare you! Take advantage of the cooler months when you’ll be vying for homes against fewer competing Buyers. Nothing better to celebrate the upcoming year with a new home to ring in 2015! It makes sense if you’re ready, to take advantage during the current market as there’s no signs of slowing down. Why potentially spend tens of thousands more on a home if you’re trigger shy to make a move, NOW. Think about the awesome furniture, art and accessories you could deck your home out in – or the 8 person hot tub which would be perfect in your new backyard.

Contact us.

If you’re looking to Buy or Sell, drop us a line and we’ll get you going on your best foot forward. info@tcteam.ca

2nd Quarter results were recently released with overall sales up 10.4% over the same time last year, squashing speculation that the condo market was on a continual decline. It’s no surprise that we’ve seen an increase in condo sales based on how single family homes have skyrocketed in price. Condos remain a more affordable option for small families and those looking to cash in on their homes and downsize to a more effortless lifestyle.

Stats-wise, the average selling price for condos in Q2 was up by 5.5% year-over-year to $367,010. In the City of Toronto, which accounted for 71% of total sales, the average selling price was $392,739, representing an increase of 5.3%. In Mississauga, condo sales were up 4.8% with an average price of $279,902 representing an increase of 5.1% year-over-year.

Have you noticed a surge in construction cranes throughout the city? Many new condo projects have popped up contributed by a healthy increase in the pre-construction condo market, with a total of 5,992 new condominium apartments sold in Toronto during Q2, which was the third highest volume of activity for a second quarter behind 2011 and 2007 and a 56% year-over-year increase from a post-recession low in 2013. The 12-month total for new condo sales reached 18,463 — directly in line with the 10-year annual average. Price growth remained consistent coming in at 2.8% annually to an average index price level of $554 per square foot in Q2. Pricing for unsold units continued to hold steady, growing by less than one percent to an average of $570 psf.

So what does this mean for new condos that are nearing completion? We should still see enough demand to sustain the price growth over inflation over the second half of the year. This coupled with how hot the Toronto condo rental market is reinforces the fact that buying condos are a sound investment after all.

I can’t believe we’re already half-way through 2014. Is it just me or has the year flown by? This spring/summer season has been busy in more ways than one. My husband Steve joined me in the business at the start of a year, forming the Tanya Crepulja Team. We celebrated our first year wedding anniversary in May, and also had another celebration on that very same day – the birth of our son. Amidst all this it’s been business as usual and as you can imagine it’s been busy, in real estate and at home with our ‘lil guy 😉 This has been one of my best years in real estate yet, having met and worked with numerous amazing buyers and sellers….all while pregnant or after just having the baby, dispelling the myth that you can’t work with a newborn (hey, real estate is my “other” baby!)

What else is exciting is the launch of our new website, which is where you’re reading this. It’s been a labour of love and in the works for the past few months with design from the good folks at Artifakt Digital.  This is the first blog post of the new site, so bear with me as I get the hang of blog writing. I’m sure Steve will have his contributions for the blog going forward, so be sure to check in often – and browse the site while here. We welcome your feedback on the site, and would be happy to help you with any home buying or selling questions you may have. Until then, make the most of what’s left of summer!