Keep your eye on the South Hill market! Just blink and you might miss your dream home!

If you live in the Caledon area, or follow our team on Twitter, you've probably seen a lot of activity in and around the 'South Hill' neighbourhood of Bolton. The real estate market in the area has been very active so far this spring, and with summer now only one day away, we don't anticipate signs of it slowing down any time soon. 

Just this past week our team has 2 new properties in the South Hill area, that interest has been very high on. As with any of our listings, we set out to market these properties with no stone left unturned, but in this case, our phones were ringing off the hook with inquiries before the homes even hit the MLS system. 

The two properties, both located on family-friendly streets just a few minutes from each other, are affordably priced and in move-in condition. Here's a quick look at each:

13 Frustac Trail- Sitting perfectly on a large 40 by 110-foot lot, this south facing detached brick home has excellent curb appeal and makes a fantastic first impression. The main floor features 9-foot ceilings with principle rooms that are both large and bright. The combined living and dining rooms are perfect for entertaining with the dining room making a formal statement, courtesy of its beautiful coffered ceilings. The large eat-in kitchen offers a charming breakfast bar for mornings on the go, as well as a walk-out to a beautiful patio that is an excellent space for hosting barbecues and supervising children at play in the private backyard. Large picture windows in the kitchen and living room contribute to this home’s airy feel. On the second level are 3 spacious bedrooms, as well as a den which could easily be converted into a fourth bedroom or used as an office. The master bedroom is the perfect retreat after a long day with a fantastic 4-piece en-suite washroom. The other 2 washrooms in the home are each spotless and bright. To find out more about 13 Frustac Trail, click here.

103 Fountainbridge Drive- This lovely two-storey detached home sits on a large 39 X 115 foot lot within walking distance to excellent schools, shops and parks. Step through the front door of this gorgeous home and you will immediately take note of the breathtaking natural light flooding into each room. The open concept principle rooms offer hardwood flooring, crown mouldings, and pot lights. The spacious eat-in kitchen boasts a charming breakfast area along with a walk-out to a large private deck that is the perfect setting for barbecues, entertaining or just watching the kids kick around the soccer ball on a hot summer afternoon. Settle after a long day with a good book in the home’s family room, which includes a cozy fireplace. On the second level you will find 3 large bedrooms finished with well-maintained parquet flooring; one bedroom even features a stunning cathedral ceiling… perfect for a growing family! To find out more about 103 Fountainbridge Drive, click here.

With the amount of attention these properties are receiving, it's clear that they will not last on the market long. In fact, with some excellent offers already coming in, they'll probably be gone before you know it! 

The benefit of partnering with a team like ours when you're thinking of selling your home,  is that we always work tirelessly to put our clients needs first and to get their properties maximum exposure. Preparing your home for showings, getting it on the market, and effective advertising along with an extensive marketing plan are all things that need to be done quickly and efficiently for you to sell your home for the best price in the least amount of time. With a team like ours representing you, you can be sure that our focus will be just that. Let us take care of the details for you so that the process of selling your home can be a painless, quick, and even enjoyable process!

Thinking of buying or selling this summer? We're here to help! If you'd like more information on these two featured South Hill properties, are thinking of putting your home on the market and need advice, or if you just need questions answered about the market in your neighbourhood, don't hesitate to contact us. We love what we do, and this is what we do best!

The Stuart Sinclair Team

RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage

Phone: (905) 857-7653

Toll Free: (866) 219-7770

Email: Info@TheStuartSinclairTeam.com

Website: www.TheStuartSinclairTeam.com

Protect your greatest assets! A reminder about fire safety

Earlier this week tragedy struck in Caledon when fire broke out around 6pm at a King Street bungalow, quickly engulfing the home in flames and causing an estimated $400,000 dollars worth of damage. Nobody was home at the time, and nobody was injured (thank God), but under different circumstances, this scenario could have been one hundred times worse. I love my job helping others to make some of the most emotionally valuable purchases they will ever make in their lives, so when I see headlines like these, it kills me to imagine my clients, friends or family ever losing all that’s been invested, because of something that could have easily been avoided.

National Fire Prevention Week may not take place until October, but I thought it would be a good idea to brush up on my knowledge of fire prevention and share with all of you some important tips that we should ALL take note of:

1) Don’t underestimate the importance of a smoke detector: By law, a working smoke detector should be installed on every level of a home, especially in areas where people sleep. Make a point of replacing the batteries in your smoke detector once per year and avoid forgetting by putting it in a calendar on the same day every year such as your birthday, or the date your insurance policy is up, as a reminder to take care of it ritually.

2) The majority of house fires start in the kitchen: Never leave an oven or stove on unattended. Always unplug small appliances that are not in use, and be mindful of older appliances with frayed cords. Keep your oven and stove clean. Built up grease and dirt can be highly flammable…speaking of grease fires, never throw water or flour on a grease fire, but rather smother the flames with a pot lid. Kitchen fires can spread quickly. If you are unsuccessful at putting out the fire, leave your home immediately and call 911.

3) Never overload electrical outlets: Don’t piggyback extension cords, and only buy electronics or appliances that are 100% approved for safety and sale in your region. There’s a handy tool on the Electrical Safety Authority’s website that provides information on product recalls as they pertain to fire safety. Check this list often to be sure that none of the electronics in your home are on this list.

4) If you are a smoker, avoid doing so in your home: If the effects of second-hand smoke aren’t enough of an incentive to not smoke in your home, consider this: Countless deadly house fires are started each year by lit cigarettes, people smoking in bed or while tired and dropping the ember on bedding, carpeting or other flammable fabrics and surfaces.

5) Fire drills aren’t just for school children: Plan two separate escape routes from your home in case of fire, be sure that every member of the family is aware of them, and review/ practice your plan regularly. If tragedy were to strike, the most important thing is getting everybody out safely and quickly.

The majority of fires are preventable. Be responsible when it comes to fire safety in your home and teach your children its importance from an early age. One of the founding fathers of electricity, Benjamin Franklin, put it best when he said “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Make fire prevention a priority, don’t be a victim.

Stuart Sinclair
Sales Representative
RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage
Independently owned and operated
Office: (905) 857-7653
Toll Free: (866) 219-7770
Email: info@thestuartsinclairteam.com

A quick update on our latest achievements

This past weekend was the Victoria Day long weekend, and for many people this means that summer has kicked off. While the calendar may not mark the start of summer for another few weeks, there's something celebratory about this time of year. Students are entering their last month of school, family vacations have been booked, and for many people it's finally the time of year to just kick back and relax in the sunshine.

With spring just about behind us, The Stuart Sinclair Team is looking back on what is typically the busiest time for the real estate market and we've even surprised ourselves with just how active the season has been.

Not only have we represented some fantastic listings in the past few months through exceptional marketing, but we've also connected some of our valued buyer clients with their next family homes.

While we're talking about our lastest achievements, it would also be an opportune time to send a sincere thank you to all of our valued sellers, buyers, colleagues, family and friends. Whether you've purchased or sold a home in the past few months, or have just needed information about the latest property to hit the market in your neighbourhood, we're grateful that you've chosen us to represent you.

If you're planning on making a move this summer and need advice on where to start, we'd be happy to provide any assistance that you may need. With a personal team backing us up, plus specialized and unique buyer and seller services, we've got the tools and experience to ensure your real estate goals are successfully reached.

Feel free to contact us at any time, and be sure to check back on our blog for regular updates on new hot properties, news and trends in residential real estate, and exciting events happening in and around our communities.

Have a fantastic summer!

The Stuart Sinclair Team

Caledon East appeals to growing families

Caledon East is a highly sought after area to live, with increasing appeal for families who are outgrowing their current homes, or are tired of renting. Located close to fantastic parks, amenities, green space and lakes, this community is blossoming. Another factor contributing to what makes this superb pocket a fantastic place to live, is it’s proximity to services like the Caledon East Community Complex, Soccer Complex, and Community Park, all of which are excellent places for young families who like to get involved and stay active.

With the spring/ summer real estate market well under way, the activity in Caledon, especially Caledon East, has been remarkable. This particular home at 11 Borland Crescent has received enormous attention…

This 4 year old, 4 bedroom detached home is situated on a premium ravine lot and offers excellent curb appeal courtesy of its brick exterior and stone walkway.

The home is tastefully decorated and comprises over 3000 square feet of well laid out living space. Boasting an open concept family room, main floor office, 9 foot ceilings and dark hardwood floors, this home is classic, yet modern. It is truly an entertainer’s delight with a spacious kitchen complete with butler’s pantry plus a bright breakfast area that opens up onto the large 16 x 16 foot deck and private fully fenced backyard. Adding to this home’s function is a mudroom for storing all your seasonal clothing, which also provides access to the property’s attached 2-car garage.

On the home’s second floor you will find 4 spacious bedrooms, each with it’s own bathroom and large closet. Laundry is also on this level, adding convenience to the home’s existing appeal. The home’s basement is partially framed and fully insulated… a blank canvas that can be completed to suit the new owner’s tastes. To learn more about this fantastic family investment, click here.

If you or someone you know is looking for more space in a family friendly neighbourhood to raise your children outside of the city, then this home may be the perfect fit. Let me know if you have any questions or would like to arrange a personal tour. I’d be happy to help in any way I can.


Cheers!


Stuart Sinclair
Sales Representative
RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
Tel: 905-857-7653
Email: info@TheStuartSinclairTeam.com





MARKET WATCH:

May 3, 2013- The average selling price for April 2013 transactions was $526,335 – up by two per cent in comparison to April 2012. The MLS® HPI Composite Benchmark Price was up by 2.9 per cent.

“The condominium apartment segment in the City of Toronto was a key driver of price growth in April, with both the average selling price and the MLS HPI apartment index up on a year-over-year basis. The improved condo sales picture, with Toronto sales down by only one per cent compared to last year, suggests that interest in condo ownership may be improving," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis. To Read More, Click Here.

The month of May brings plenty of opportunity to get involved!

It’s hard to believe that May is already here. It seems like just yesterday we were talking about the spring real estate market coming early to the GTA, and now here we are with the summer heat just around the corner.

Staying involved in our community is really important to us, so we thought we’d share information about some exciting events that are going on this May in support of a few really great causes.

This Saturday Tim Hortons is again sponsoring Bolton’s annual community cleanup. Registration for the event starts at 9:30am on May 4th at the Caledon Community Centre for Recreation and Wellness. It’s a great event to be involved with and gives an opportunity to meet new people and have fun all while supporting your community. A festive spring BBQ will be held afterwards for all participants. For more information about this and other Caledon events, click here.

Also taking place later this month is an event that is being held at our Bolton office in support of The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Yard Sale for the Cure will take place at our office on Saturday May 25th and we’d love if you’d join us. If you have gently used items around your home that you’d like to donate, please contact us and we’d be happy to pick them up. Yard Sale for the Cure is now in it’s fifth year and has already raised over 1.5 million dollars… this year is sure to be the best yet. Most of us know or will know at least one woman who has been affected by breast cancer in our lives, so come on out and join us in support of this fantastic cause!

Speaking of women, another important day is fast approaching…

I’d like to sign off by sending a heartfelt ‘HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY” to all the lovely ladies out there! Enjoy the day and the rest of this gorgeous month with the people who mean the most to you!

Cheers!

Stuart Sinclair
Sales Representative
RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
Phone: 906-857-7653
Email: info@TheStuartSinclairTeam.com

  

Brampton gated communities offer exclusivity and luxury at an affordable price

A gated community is a neighborhood that is enclosed by a gate, fence or wall. There are several reasons why homeowners choose to live in a gated community some of which being the privacy, security and exclusivity they offer. They also often provide a great sense of community that can often be difficult to forge in regular residential neighbourhoods. The appeal of gated communities in Southern Ontario are actually more popular than you may think, with some fantastic new developments opening up in recent years that are really redefining what it means to live in this type of housing segment. One such community is the Rosedale Village Golf & Country Club, a private, secure, gated community that caters to adult households of all ages.

Just a short drive to shopping malls, hospitals, biking trails, parks, conservation areas, GO and public transit and major highways, this well-established community has everything you could possibly need very close at hand. Rosedale village is bordered by beautiful Caledon countryside to the north and bustling cities of Toronto and Mississauga to the south.

Rosedale Village Golf and Country Club has the facilities that cater to an array of different active lifestyles. Enjoy the private, executive 9-hole golf course then relax in the wonderfully designed Village Centre, home to the clubhouse and recreation facilities. If golfing isn’t your favourite pass-time, a variety of other activities await you at the recreation centre which features an exercise room, indoor pool, fireside lounge, tennis court, lawn bowling and bocce facilities.




This particular unit at 65 Via Rosedale way offers tremendous value for homes in a gated community with such fantastic amenities and services. Sitting at approximately 740 square feet in size, this unit offers a functional layout. The unit is spacious, bright, stylishly decorated and features many upgrades. The property boasts large windows that let in plenty of sunshine, engineered hardwood flooring in the open-concept living and dining room, plus a modern kitchen with breakfast bar that features stunning granite counters and stainless steel appliances. The property also features a walkout to a private balcony. To find out more about this incredible property, click here.


If you’d like to learn more about this property or are just looking for more information about gated communities, We’d love to hear from you. Don’t hesitate to contact us at any time. If you’re in the market for a condo that offers a luxury lifestyle at a friendly price, this property is perfect for you.



Timea Edelenyi
Sales Representative
The Stuart Sinclair Team
RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
Phone: 905-857-7653
Email: Timea@TheStuartSinclairTeam.com

How not to sell a house... ensuring your home shows well

As an experienced real estate salesperson, I’d like to think that I’ve seen a lot when it comes to home sales. I’m talking the good, the bad, the ugly, and the just plain weird. From tiny cottages to luxury mansions; from quirky design trends to homes that are literally falling apart at the seams; I’ve seen a lot. That being said, I still shake my head a little when I see some of the properties that occasionally hit the market, and the way they are being marketed.

If you follow me on Twitter, you may have caught my posts this week about a property that I viewed in Bolton. To put it bluntly, the home showed terribly. In desperate need of repairs and serious cleaning, I wondered how anybody would ever be able to sell it.  It got me thinking about the numerous mistakes people make when trying to sell their homes. While there are probably too many to name, I thought it would be a good idea to share some of the basics, especially considering we are heading into the hottest time of year for home sales in the GTA.

The first thing, also perhaps the most important yet most frequently overlooked, is the importance of curb appeal. Even if your home isn’t professionally landscaped to the extreme, be sure to at least cut the grass, pull the weeds and spruce up the overall look of your home on the outside before you invite buyers for showings. Another basic rule? Getting rid of the mess and the personal belongings. When staging your home for sale, remove all family photos, nick-knacks and general clutter. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, which can be hard to do when everywhere they turn there are photos of you on family vacations, or your favourite books and movies lying around.

If things are broken, fix them. Do you really want the liability of a prospective buyer injuring themselves while viewing your home, just because you neglected to take care of a simple repair? It blows my mind to see how many owners go through the trouble of ‘staging’ their homes for sale, when there are significant defects throughout the property in plain view.

Finally, if you are going to stage your home for sale, seek the advice of a professional. Your idea of what is ‘stylish’ might not be the best design choice for the masses. A professional  (and honest) Realtor can help you point out areas of your home that stand out, and could use a little bit of extra attention.

Getting your home ready for sale? The tips above are great starting points, but there’s so much more to consider. Feel free to call me to find out more…I’d be happy to provide my opinion and advice at any time!

Cheers!

Stuart Sinclair

Sales Representative

The Stuart Sinclair Team

RE/Max West Realty Inc., Brokerage

Independently Owned and Operated

Office: 905-857-7653

Toll Free: 1-866-219-7770

Email: info@TheStuartSinclairTeam.com

Website: www.TheStuartSinclairTeam.com