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Showing posts from July, 2024

The Once-a-Year Home Maintenance Checklist (That Actually Matters)

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Let’s be honest. Most of us only think about home maintenance when something starts dripping, buzzing, or making a noise that sounds expensive. This is not that list. This is the once-a-year checklist that actually saves you money, stress, and surprise water features in your basement . You can do this in one afternoon. Maybe two, if you keep stopping for coffee and “just one more YouTube video.” Here we go. 1. Change your furnace filter (yes… really). If you can’t remember the last time you changed it, that’s your answer. A dirty filter: makes your furnace work harder lowers air quality and quietly increases your heating bill Pro tip: write the date on the new filter. Your future self will thank you. 2. Test your sump pump (before it becomes a personality test). Pour a bucket of water into the pit and make sure it: turns on pumps out and turns off again If it doesn’t, your basement may soon become a very exclusive indoor pool — especially with our spring melt and heavy rain around King...
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Making Homeownership Happen in Ontario: The Gifted Down Payment Saga

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As a realtor in Ontario, I've seen firsthand how a gifted down payment can transform a dream into a reality faster than you can say "sold!" Let's dive into the delightful world of receiving a gifted down payment for your future abode and navigate this journey with a touch of humour and practicality. The Gifted Down Payment Delight Picture this: you've been diligently saving for your dream home, but suddenly, Aunt Mildred swoops in like a housing superhero with a generous down payment gift. Cue the confetti! While it’s not every day you get a financial boost from family or friends, in Ontario, this gesture is a game-changer for many aspiring homeowners. Navigating the Quirks Gift Letter Glee : Ah, the infamous gift letter. It’s not just a piece of paper; it's your golden ticket to mortgage approval bliss. Make sure Aunt Mildred pens down that the funds are a gift, not a loan, and throws in a sprinkle of her signature charm. Show Us the Money : Lenders want proo...
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How to Buy Vacant Land: A Quick Guide

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Buying vacant land in Ontario can be an exciting and rewarding investment. Whether you’re planning to build your dream home, start a farm, or develop a business, purchasing land gives you the freedom to create something unique. Here’s a quick guide to help you through the process. 1. Determine Your Purpose and Budget Before you start looking for land, clearly define your purpose. Are you buying land for residential, agricultural, or commercial use? Your purpose will influence the location, size, and type of land you need. Additionally, set a realistic budget, taking into account not just the purchase price but also potential development costs. Remember that you can usually only mortgage around 50% of vacant land. 2. Research Locations Ontario is vast and diverse, offering a range of environments from urban plots to rural expanses. Research different areas to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider factors like proximity to amenities, climate, and community features. 3. Check ...
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