Agent Blogs

The Globe and Mail posted an article yesterday called “10 worst first-time homebuyer mistakes”. While the contents are based on American real estate law, they are certainly applicable to what first-time buyers should be aware of when purchasing property in Ontario. Some important... [ more ]

Safety Series 003 Always Take Your Time When Standing   Whether you are older or someone with mobility issues or perhaps even ill, or with child, we need to be aware of our safety. We’ve all known someone this latest tip applies to so pass it on, Always Take Time When Standing. If... [ more ]

As expected the Bank of Canada raised their rate by 1/4% this morning. Bank prime is now at 2.75%.   They comment that inflation is in line with their projections. Also, that overall economic growth is weaker than previously anticipated. Hopefully this will mean rates staying in... [ more ]

Be pro-active and like Boy Scout leader Baden Powell said "Be Prepared". Heaven forbid anything should ever happen. Whether its just you in your home or if you have family, have an easy, rehearsed plan. During the panic you won't need to come up quickly with what to do and having a... [ more ]

Land transfer tax is imposed by the provincial government on all purchases of property in Ontario (with an additional tax imposed by the City of Toronto for properties purchased there). It is equivalent to approximately 1.5% of the purchase price. Land transfer tax can be a burden to many buyers,... [ more ]

When thinking what colour of mulch to top your gardens with, consider a number of things first. Is the colour going to take away from my front entrance? Or from another feature (ie. water, pond, landscaping). You want people to admire your gardens and the plants in it, not the mulch.... [ more ]

Hi Everyone, I Just wanted to let you know about a fundraiser that is taking place in Angus this weekend that has been organized by yours truly, and my colleague in the mortgage business, Travis Williamson. The event we call "Homes for Hunger" will be held at the Sobeys... [ more ]

Sales activity cools in June   Residential property sales recorded through the MLS® System of the Barrie District Association of REALTORS® Inc. came in well below last year’s record levels in June.   Home sales numbered 461 units in June 2010, down 19 per cent... [ more ]

Hello to all! Here's a quick gentle safety reminder for us all, "Keep Your Stairs Clear of Objects and Clutter". For young and old alike, the stairs need to clutter free! We need to be more conscious of this at our own home. Papers, toys, shirt on the banister, anything could be a... [ more ]

Hmmm...this is more of a question for a realtor than a lawyer I think...I am fairly sure they can access the last transaction so I believe they can tell you what the Vendors purchased the home for.  I am not sure if they can go back further than that.  If you really want to know, your... [ more ]

...just do it safely! When it's time to set off your fireworks this Canada Day weekend, the Canada Safety Council has some great advice for a safe and fun experience: Purchasing: Follow the laws and regulations regarding the use of fireworks. Purchase your fireworks from a... [ more ]

In an effort to better serve my listing clients, offer the buyer a better experience and continue to market my brand I have created these new for sale signs.  They Still have my face and branding materials on one side of the sign but on the other side I have a removable decal with an image... [ more ]

  What to Consider When Buying a Home Thanks to the perfect storm of low prices, attractive inventory, and affordable interest rates, this continues to be a lucrative time to invest in a home, whether it be a first home, a move-up home, or a second home. Choosing a home is no easy... [ more ]

Hi there! please join me this Saturday, June 26 at 94 Wessenger in Barries south end for an open house I'm doing for Peggy Hill between 12 and 1:30pm. Family neighbourhood, affordable at $219,900. Check out the listing at www.ShawnGannaw.com ID#7034. A two story for you or a friend, pass it on!... [ more ]

 There is an exciting new investment opportunity available right now to individuals that are looking to purchase Real Estate in Barrie for investment purposes.  They have announced the Launch of a new Condominium to be constructed on Cundles Road west at Duckworth and the HWY 400.... [ more ]