I operate my business much differently than most real estate salespeople, who see their customers as a one-time transactional value only. They make no long-term commitment to their customer's well-being. They are after the quick sale, then on to the next...
On the other hand, by choosing to run my business almost entirely BY REFERRAL, I understand how very special you are to me. I prefer to spend 100% of my time and energy listening carefully to your goals, explaining your options and giving you first-class treatment all the way. You will be treated like a friend, with dignity and respect.
My vision is to provide so much value that you will feel proud to be part of my “Client Family”, and that you will trust me with the people you care about. Your delight with the entire experience, and your referrals, are the key to the future of my business.
You need not be referred, but will be treated so well that you will want to refer others. I want to be your “Real Estate Consultant For Life”.
Helping People On The Move
Cindy and David
Thank you so much for helping us to find our perfect house. We very much enjoyed working with you because you made the "daunting" house-search process painless! You were always available to answer our questions and help educate us on the ins and outs of the process. You showed us a range of homes including ones we didn't like to let us see contrast to the ones you knew we'd like. You understood us. We both recall sitting with you at Tim's and talking about Orangeville, no hard sell, just objective conversation. We couldn't have asked for better Realtor. Over & over, friends of ours said things like, "Our real estate agent didn't do that for us." We've come to realize that you are in a class all of your own, and we recognize the high standards you operate within. We are so lucky to have met you for our first foray into the housing market. It seemed so simple with you by our sides... thank you again!
Sue and Paul
“David provided excellent advice and made the sale of our home more than a sales transaction.
“He handled everything with care and professionalism - everything with our experience was top notch. From dealings with other agents, the experience was truly unique. David sets a high standard for the rest of the real estate community.
“We gave out business cards to all our neighbours!”
Sandy and Thomas
“To David– you provided us with undivided attention, and being new to the area, you gave us valuable directions which we use everyday. Your limousine service was stellar!
“Everything was excellent, David followed up on everything and made sure we were informed about the whole process. Also when we were procrastinating you made sure we understood the importance of dealing with things ASAP! You are organized, thorough, friendly, knowledgeable and you listen and deliver!
“Thank you for your time and patience! We love the home and will continue to tell our friends about your commitment, professionalism and your wonderful style.”
The Oliver Family
“Before I had decided to sell, I requested some information on the market in my area. I was very impressed with the detail of the information I was provided. From that point on, David was at the top of my Realtor list. David always had a very calm and soothing outlook on the process. He kept me relaxed and confident about my decisions. You are a hard working, down to earth couple who takes great pride in establishing personal connections with your clients.”
Mike and Anne
“Mike and I want to thank you so much for helping us find our perfect dream home and also for selling ours at record price – above asking! We are both thrilled! You exceeded our expectations with your personal service and attention – thank you again!”
Anne and Jim
“Your guide booklet helped us right until the closing day. All my questions were answered before I had to ask. I felt very comfortable with everything - keep up the great teamwork and positive attitude!
“You have a lot of knowledge about real estate and you know exactly what to do. You made everything EASY as PIE! And a very exciting and enjoyable process!”
Jeremy
“Initially going through the whole process slowly step-by-step was very helpful. It was very educational and made us feel more comfortable. David was great, very kind and friendly and gave us some very good tips. He was very informative and available upon request. He worked late hours with us throughout the process to get things done.
“Your next client should know that you are great for first-time home buyers -- very patient and knowledgeable. Thank you very much for your time and efforts!”
Katie and Dan
"I did research on the websites of various agents - yours spoke to me the most. I scheduled a time to meet with David and I knew that it was a great match as soon as he handed me the binder. I always felt like I was the only client (even though I knew I wasn't).
"What I remember most was when I was at the point where I was deciding whether to put in an offer on a house... I told David I was "pretty sure", and he said, "We only do 100% sure." I thought this was a remarkable statement, truly caring about my decision and not just trying to push me into something.
"You always exceeded my expectations with all of the personal attention, lots of contact & genuine interest to help me find a great home. I smile every time I receive mail from you, wondering what else you could possibly do for me. You are incredible agents and incredible people!"
The market here in Orangeville is just crazy right now! I'm telling
you! I've have been on the run since my last update here on Orangeville MarketWatch! I love being busy in this business, and I thrive off of helping people, but this is nuts :) There seems to be a big urgency
happening with people wanting to buy.
If you are buying a new home and will require an insured mortgage(a
mortgage with less than a 20% down payment), and want a variable
rate, you will need to act quickly, and buy a home before April 19th.
If you are self-employed, you will need to purchase a new home prior to
April 9th., in order to qualify for a high ratio mortgage on a better
term for lower interest rates. As of April 9th(for self-employed
buyers), or April 19th(for the rest of the buyers) you will have to
qualify, for a variable mortgage on a 5 year term, instead of a 3 year
term(which often is a lower posted interest rate), therefore making your
money stretch a little further. There are also other
stipulations regarding investment property, and the qualification for
buyers.
This is very important stuff, and as per one of our great mortgage
brokers says, this will really restrict what some buyers want to do.
They may not qualify to borrow as much money as they need to find a
house they will be happy with, self employed buyers, who earn
their money on commission will have to look to other mortgage products,
and investors will have to have to put more money down in their investments.
If you have any further questions, please let me know, and I can put you in
touch with a great mortgage broker.
Well - onto more "great" stuff! There are some great new listings on
the market this week. Please click on the links to your right
to see them. Also, if you would like more information on the listings I
am writing about below, please click on the photo, and the listing will
pop up.
This is the Dave pick of the day!
Welcome to Hockley Heaven! A Gorgeous 4.58 acre lot offers privacy and I mean privacy, trees & the Nottawasaga river at the doorstep. The home has just been totally renovated and is wow, wow and wow. I went to the agent open house yesterday and I was amazed with the New Kitchen with granite counters and birch cupboards. It Overlooks the Living Room and has soaring ceiling and a wall of windows. The Mainfloor has a 4 Piece bathroom with skylight & soaker Tub.
Huge room sizes and finished Walkout Basement ideal as In-law suite. They also put on a steel roof 4 years ago. The furnace and AC are only 3 Yrs and there are 2 large decks, Mainfloor laundry and 3 outbuildings.
Wow - it finally snowed and now its sunny and its all starting to melt! I find it so refreshing when It snows and it's so nice when does! I just love going for hikes on the Bruce Trail with my family during the winter time (no bugs)!
I'm super excited now that the spring market is here. I've been having a great winter market, helping great clients achieve their goals, and I'm committed to helping others who want my help. I'm also 110% committed to offering super client service, powerful negotiating skills, and with that, a friendly approach to the real estate business.
The market is still moving very quickly right now. The inventory in this market is still pretty slim, which can drive up the prices. Hopefully it will level out soon, as it is getting a bit crazy at the moment. Please click on the links to see all of the homes currently available. Also, please click on the photo of the properties mentioned below to see all of the listing informationn.
598403 Second Line E Mulmur Township
Wow, Wow And Wow, this is a truly amazing double bricked century victorian home at sits majestically (I like that word) in the picturesque hamlet of honeywood. Over the years this amazing property has been used as a general store and many famous people such as Don Cherry (coaches corner) has come in. If your looking to get away from the bustle of the city or you would like to have your own business then here's your chance! Up stairs you will find a fantastic layout and a huge greatroom with windows galore and wait there's more...this huge home has had many updates that include: 1000 Sq Ft 2
Level Deck, Shingles, Greatroom, Bathroom, Attic Insulation, Dw, Doors (2009),
Ac+Furnace (2006), Windows (2007)
Great Familyroom with windows everywhere and a walkout to fantastic deck
Ihope you had a great long weekend, a happy Valentine's Day, and a great Family Day! What a month of celebrations! I've been working really hard this month showing homes and doing everything to find a great home for my clients that are looking to buy right now and negotiating offers. I also have been watching the Olympics, getting a charge out the competition and getting into the spirit! Did you see the opening ceremonies? Wasn't it amazing?
Okay - now onto real estate. You must have heard about the changes our Finance Minister, Mr. Flahrety made for mortgage lenders. If you have any questions as to whether this may impact your pre-approval, or any future plans, please ask. I have some great mortgage brokers that would be able to help.
The market is moving so quickly right now, it is crazy! I'm seeing prices rising right before my eyes! Some homes are being soldthe day they are listed. If you want information on a more timely pace, please let me know. We can put you on a daily mailing, so you can get information more quickly. Better yet, let me know when you want to go to the next step, i.e Tour of Homes or meet me for a Starbucks for a coffee and discuss your plans. I can keep an eye out and e-mail the listing or call you as soon as we see it. And then we can get you through the house as quickly as we can!
There are some great new homes on the market now! Please click on the links to the side of the screen.
And there is an amazing new Italian Cafe in Orangeville called Casa Del Gelato! Watch the video.
Happy Monday!!! Today I'm video blogging about Mortgage Pre-Approvals and how important it is to have this completed before you start looking at homes.
If you want to voice your opinion or if you don't care for my comments please email your feedback to dave@davidwaters.ca and visit http://www.www.WatersAdvantage.com
Hello and Welcome to 2010! Man, it's been cold this week! I was just out on an appointment today and we just about froze
solid. This cold snap reminds me when I was a kid,
growing up in Toronto. Always lots of snow, very cold, and so amazingly beautiful.
Well, its been interesting this week so far. There are 23 new listings that
have come on the market and are ready for sale. Some are homes that are
re-listed because they did not sell this past fall or over the
holidays, but there is fresh inventory.
Please click on the buttons on the right of the page to see the updated listing information.
I would like to tell you about a couple of homes that I saw
on my travels over the past few days! Please click on the photo so you
can view the listing as well. I'm really enjoying providing you with these posts, it's a nice way share what I'm seeing in the market place.
David
25 Clarke Ave is a Beautifully Maintained Salem (Sunvale) 2,235 Sq Ft Home In the Sought-After Area of purple hill. I really like this one since it's in move-in condition and has been Professionally Landscaped. It comes with all the great features you might want such as Open-Concept Kitchen, Ceramic Floor, Extra Height Upgraded Cabinetry, Tile Backsplash, Centre Island, W/O To Yard, Main Floor Family Room, Corner Gas Fireplace, Master Bedroom Loft Overlooks Living Room, Fabulous Ensuite W/Corner Tub & Separate Shower, Finished Lower Level Rec Room, 5th Bedroom, W/O From Main Floor Laundry To Deck, Access To 3 Car Garage.
I also like the location as it's only a 1 minute drive to the hospital and 30 seconds drive to the Elementary school. Asking $449,000
52 Pheasant Drive is a good size family home for an excellent
price. I found that this 3 bedroom home was spacious enough
for a larger family, and sits on a large lot, but does require a little
elbow grease and some updating in a few places. The kitchen and flooring has been updated, and the basement is finished, it just needs a little
attention. It's located in the north west end of town and is walking distance to schools and a 2 minute drive to shopping. Asking $379,900.00.
310 Elderberry Street is a fantastic townhouse in Montgomery Village. I think this is a wonderful, bright home in a very desired community!! This home is VERY WELL PRICED and will not last long!! It shows beautifully! Completed tastefully throughout with a Rec Room, 4th Bedroom and 3 Pc bath offered downstairs as well. Now for the car buffs the double car insulated garage with loft, extra shelving and workshop area is awesome. You can walk to schools, Rec Centre, Shopping, Trails & Parks, nothing to do here but move In. Asking $229,000
The season is here! People rushing around already with Christmas
shopping, social gatherings, and the like! In Orangeville last night, the annual tree
lighting ceremony was going on with choirs from different schools in the area, free
hot chocolate and cookies, and more! I was showing property last night
as it was happening. I was across town, and I could hear the children
singing "Frosty the Snowman" clear and strong, and it actually lifted
my heart! What a community we live in here!
The market is experiencing it's Christmas slowdown, as usual. It
happens every year. The inventory coming on the market slows down, as
people are interested in other things right now, and having their homes
on the market can be an inconvenience over the holidays. However, the
thing is, Buyers are out wanting to buy. Many homes are coming on the
market and selling very quickly, sometimes within days, very close to
asking price. And most in competition. What will happen in the next
few months, after the holidays, I don't know, but I think we will see a
strong spring market.
Please click on the buttons to your right to see all of the listings on the market as of this week.
If you would like to view any of them, please let me, it is my pleasure to show you any homes you see here, or on realtor.ca. Let me know how we can help you!
Can you believe that it is only 23 days until Christmas? Boy!
I guess I need to get cracking with my shopping, decorating,
scheduling our entertaining, and the like! Are you ready? I usually
am pretty organized. I guess I just have to get in gear!
I've been quite busy showing property and working with
clients over the last few weeks and I'm still amazed how well the market is.
Please click on the photos for listing information! Also -
don't forget to click on the buttons on the right to see all of the
listings on the market as of this week!
315 Dogwood - Montgomery Village The home has been Reduced $45000 and shows very well. The home is simply immaculate with 3 Storeys and a very large principal rooms. It's the largest model built in the area and comes with a 3rd Floor. The stunning music/media 12 seat theater room with extensive list of electronics are included.The hardwood floors are fantastic and there's even built in cabinetry. On the outside, the shingles have been replaced in 2008 and the home comes with a in ground sprinkler system. When I looked at this home, the one thing that was most noticeable was the silent floor construction and sound proofing that's in most of interior walls and ceilings.
Click on the photo and the listing information will open in a new window.
As of October 31, 2009 we have recorded
1965 home sales in the Headwaters Region compared to 1853 in all of
2008. From the below chart you can see the effects of the financial
meltdown with the unusually low sales in Nov and Dec 2008, carrying
into Jan and Feb.
Momentum started to build with a backlog of First
Time Buyers making their way into the market in March with a steady
number of sales recorded right through to October 2009.
Our record year
of 2007 recorded 2355 sales. If 2009 November and December Sales
reflect the years 2005 to 2007, 2009 will be the second best year ever.
That is quite a recovery—thanks to low interest rates, government
bail-outs, lending policies at Canadian banks, First Time Buyers and
Move-Up Buyers are returning to the market.
Did you ever have a day when you just needed fresh baked chocolate
chip cookies? Today was that day. I actually had to put off writing
this blog until I had them. Why am I telling you this? I don't
know - just wanted to point out that I'm a real person, with real
cravings?
The real estate market in Orangeville is still chugging along with
new listings coming on weekly (the fall market is slowing down), and others selling Daily. We are seeing
some homes sell in competition or very close to list price, while
others sit and sell in time. There are many ways to get your house
sold quicker than others, we actually have an e-book telling you some
great tips at www.SearchOrangevilleHomes.com If you are not familiar with that website, please check it out! There are other e-books available for free there too!
There are some very nice additions to the market this week. Please
do not forget, if you click on the photo, the listing information will
pop up!
Excellent location at the corner of highway 10 & 20th Sdrd. Beautiful 3 Bdrm schoolhouse with master Bedroom and family room on upper level. The home features large kitchen with an island, The dining room has a walk out to the deck. The
Shop/Garage with 10'X10' door, currently used as a woodworking business (2500Sq
Feet), There is a sunny studio/showroom upstairs (1000 Sq Feet) with additional bathroom.
It would be a great art showroom in addition there is also a bathroom in the shop.
There are also a few older, well priced bungalows in Orangeville come
on the market. These are priced well for the conditions of the homes,
however both would require some updating. Please click on
the buttons to the right of the page to see them!
I'm available for you! Just Call me when you see a house that
interests you. Our goal is to help you find your new home in Orangeville or the surrounding areas!
In July 2009, Orangeville reported a record 82 sales, up 100 per cent from July 2008 (41 sales reported) and the highest number of sales since January 2005! All
areas recorded higher July ’09 sales than July 08. Caledon sales were
up 29% (84 July 2009 vs 65 July 2008); Dufferin sales were up 21% (40
vs 33); Erin sales were marginally up 5% (39 vs 37). A remarkable
recovery (particularly for Orangeville, Caledon and Dufferin) and unusual for July as typically sales slow in the summer months.
Perhaps, some of the factors that have contributedto this phenomenon are:
More families holidaying from home and having a look/see at real estate;
Unseasonably wet, cool weather – what better time to house hunt;
Likely the lowest interest we will see in the foreseeable future;
Renewed confidence in the economy;
Release of pent up demand for those who have been sitting on the sidelines; and
Re-emergence
of the move up buyer into the market. The move-up buyer creates a more
stable market as for each sale/purchase, there are further
sales/purchases.
The best way to watch the video is in full screen mode - once the
video starts, just click on the computer screen icon at the bottom
right of the video.
Onward!
This is a site for Orangeville MarketWatch subscribers to access some of
the content we reference offline, like home listings with pictures and
full details, school information, neighbourhood profiles and much more.
Check back often because we're always expanding and posting new
information that will be helpful to you, including our weekly listing
feeds to the right.
Our goal is to give you the information you need to make good, easy decisions on your way to buying a home in Orangeville...
What Is MarketWatch?
This is a
site for Orangeville MarketWatch subscribers to access some of the content I
reference offline, like home listings with pictures and full details, school
information, neighbourhood profiles and much more.
Check
back often because we're always expanding and posting new information that will
be helpful to you, including our weekly listing feeds to the right.
My goal
is to give you the information you need to make good, easy decisions on your
way to buying a home in Orangeville and the Surrounding Areas ...
What Is MarketWatch?
MarketWatch
is a home buying plan developed for you to make your home search simple. If
you’re looking to buy a home in Orangeville in the next 6-12 months, MarketWatch is
for you. Best of all, it's FREE and easy.
"Your
"MarketWatch" is the best comprehensive listing service that I have
seen anywhere. There is absolutely no need to look elsewhere for listings
in the Orangeville market area."
- Jim C.
"Without
the MarketWatch newsletter and information our house hunting would have been a
much more difficult and overwhelming experience. This service that you offer is
extremely good, especially for people who are first time buyers as well as
people who are new to Orangeville. I am very glad that we have been part of
this 'group' for the last year. Thank you for a great and memorable
experience."
- Tiffani & Stuart
"We
think this is working out great. The articles are very informative and
explicit, and it's a great way to get to know the community. Thank you for all
the help in getting to know Orangeville!"
- Eric & Barbara
"Thank
you for sending me MarketWatch. It's very helpful and easy to surf, and has
lots of information!! It's really a thing to get ready to buy an ideal
home. I will be in touch with you when we are ready for this move."
- Syeda K.
"This
search program is UNBELIEVABLE! We are looking at so many new places, that
would have taken ages to find through MLS.ca. Thank you for putting us on this
list! We love it! Wake up every week to new listings, or any time we like,
without having to do any web searching!"
- Markian & Tamara
"Thanks
so much for your MarketWatch! Gosh, it is very comprehensive. I don't feel that
I need much else to help me in my search for a home in Orageville or to learn about Orangeville. David you have a good thing going!"
- Cindy
"We
have been checking out MarketWatch on the computer -- it is amazing! There's
tons of information that is very helpful and informative. Keep sending
it!!"
- Kate & Trevor
How does it work?
When you
sign up for a FREE MarketWatch subscription, you will get all listings in your
desired area and price range mailed to you.
Along
with the listings, you will also get a free one year subscription to our
MarketWatch newsletter. The newsletter consists of information to help you
become educated in the home buying process. Plus, there are current
articles, booklets and other bonus material that is sent on an ongoing basis.
Every two
weeks after the intial mailing, you will receive a mailing with all new
listings and the MarketWatch Newsletter.
What do I do when I am ready to start looking at
homes?
You may
want to take advantage of our FREE Home Search Program, where
our computers will search and match your exact wants and needs with ALL the new
homes that come on the market each day. You can choose how often you want to
receive these updates.
The Home
Finder Program is perfect for when you’re starting to look at homes, and you
want to find out about NEW listings as soon as they come on the market.
You may
also want to join me for a Saturday Tour of Orangeville to
learn more about the different homes and neighbourhoods, or book a Buyer
Planning and Strategy Seminar. Call 519-215-0107 for more
information on our upcoming sessions.
What makes MarketWatch different than any other
home search program?
As a real
estate consultant, I understand that buying a home is a process, and the
MarketWatch system is designed to give you an idea of values, get you familiar
with the types of homes in the area, keep you posted regularly and educate you
about the process of buying a home in Orangeville.
It's the
step BEFORE you actually start looking, which is absolutely unique in the marketplace.
Welcome to Orangeville
Orangeville offers the best of all
worlds. We've managed to retain many of the characteristics of a small
town while adding the amenities of a larger centre. We're less than an hour
from Toronto, with all it has to offer, and only moments away from the
unspoiled natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment.
An attractive lifestyle is a major reason people give for locating in
Orangeville; there's something for everyone. We have a vibrant cultural
life with our own live theatre and an active community of artisans.
Sports play a major role in our community, as the Town and a legion of
dedicated volunteers combine to offer programs in just about any sport you can
think of.
Orangeville and area is an outdoors enthusiast's dream. Our parks
range from passive open land to those well equipped to entertain the most
active users and our extensive trailway system is being expanded yearly.
Just outside of town, our neighbours offer excellent hiking trails,
cross-country and downhill skiing, golfing, fishing, and a wide variety of
other activities.
Orangeville boasts a strong and diversified economic base. We have
become a regional shopping destination with a Power Centre, an indoor mall and
a charming and well-maintained downtown core that offers exquisite dining and
boutique and convenience shopping. Our business park is home to a strong
and varied manufacturing community. Our convenient location, capable and
dedicated workforce, and lower capital and operating costs, are among the many
reasons businesses build and grow in Orangeville.
Orangeville has experienced steady growth over the past few years.
Attractive, affordable housing, an ongoing school building program and a new
health care facility have appealed to many families. With a carefully
planned approach to growth, we will work to ensure positive change and create a
welcoming environment for both families and businesses.
There's so much more we could tell you about Orangeville. Please take
some time to look through our profile to learn a bit more about us. But,
better yet, come to Orangeville and take a look for yourself. Nothing we
can say can match the feeling you'll get from a visit.
Housing
Orangeville
has experienced steady growth over the past few years. Attractive
affordable housing, an ongoing school building program and a new health care
facility have appealed to many families. With a carefully planned
approach to growth, the Town works to ensure positive change and to create a
welcoming environment for both families and businesses.
A variety
of housing is available in this safe community, from stately brick century
homes on tree-lined streets, to newer subdivisions with modern parks and
walking trails, and estate residential opportunities in the surrounding
area. A wide range of supportive services and family-oriented activities
and events are available to residents throughout the year. Whether you
enjoy the quiet places of worship and repose or the more spirited atmosphere of
a festival, Orangeville has something for everyone.
Population
& Demographics
As with
many of the smaller communities located in proximity to the GTA, the Town of
Orangeville has experienced significant growth over the past decades.
Statistics Canada has reported that the 2006 population of the Town of
Orangeville was 26,925. This compares to 21,498 in 1996, representing an
increase in population of 25.2% over the period 1996-2006.
Town of
Orangeville's 2006 Population: 26,925
Dufferin
County's 2006 Population: 54,435
The Town
of Orangeville's population is projected to reach approximately 31,684 by the
year 2011. This growth in population will continue to create new
opportunities for businesses, services and residents. The median age of
Orangeville residents, 35.4, is the third lowest among all municipalities in
the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area, and well below the median age of Ontario
residents (39.0).
Age Characteristics of the Population Town of
Orangeville 2006
Age
Male Female
0 to
4
895 915
5 to 14
2140 2080
15 to 19
1060 1055
20 to
24
800 740
25 to 44
4865 5050
45 to 54
1875 1895
55 to 64
1140 1240
65 to
74
635 750
75 to
84 350
590
85 & over 100
285
(Source:
2006 Census, Statistics Canada)
The Ultimate Guide to Orangeville House Prices - Video and Print Versions
If
you’re just starting to look for a new home in Orangeville, this video could
be very helpful. It’s a comprehensive guide to the Orangeville and
surrounding area real estate markets - have a look...
For a
list of school report cards, a good reference point is the Fraser Institute (FraserInstitute.ca)
In 2004 the Town of Orangeville approached Humber with the concept of
establishing a partnership to build a new campus to service the
community and those surrounding Dufferin County.
In October 2005, a partnership was formulized where the Town of
Orangeville donates a 28 acre building site on Veterans' Way - County
Road #16 in the northwest section of the community.
Humber has committed to the development of a full-service regional campus to be built over the next 10 to 12 years.
Three phases are planned for the campus design including a student residence, as well as an Arboretum.
The Orangeville Campus is targeted to open phase one in the late
fall 2007, or early 2008 accommodating up to 400 students. The campus
will eventually house 2000+ students in a variety of disciplines.
An Orangeville Campus Community Relations Office was opened in
January 2006 to facilitate academic research and general community
awareness of the new college campus.
The Orangeville Campus Community Relations Office is located at 229
Broadway Unit #4, Orangeville. The office at this time is open to the
public three days a week.
Buyer Representation... and How It Protects You
One
of the most misunderstood concepts in real estate involves Buyer Representation.
In fact, I
know a lot of REALTORS who don't even get it.
I'll try to
break it down as simple as I can...
Normally,
when a home is listed, the seller agrees to "co-operate" with any
real estate professional who brings a buyer, negotiates the sale, removes the
conditions and closes the transaction, and then pay us from the proceeds of the sale.
In other words, they pay us to help them find buyers.
The listing
agent works for the seller - that makes sense.
But here's
the part people have trouble with...
All the
other 20,000 agents in the Toronto area? They also work for the seller as
"sub-agents". After all, the seller is paying them, so it makes
sense that this is the default setting.
In other
words, if you emailed me today (out of the blue) asking for information about a
home, technically I would work for the seller. My interest is to protect
the seller and get him the highest price and best terms to his benefit.
Even if it's
listed with another company.
Even if
you're my best friend in the whole world.
Even if
you're on MarketWatch.
Seriously.
Our Code of
Ethics says we need to disclose this as soon as possible. Unfortunately
most Realtors don't.
So how do you get someone working FOR YOU?
A Buyer
Representation Agreement is the only way to ensure you are protected.
The BRA is something that's done in writing, because
everything in real estate is in writing.
Simply put,
this Buyer Representation Agreement says that even though the seller pays me as
your Buyer Representative, my legal duty is to ensure YOUR interests are
protected as a buyer. It gives me permission to work for you, and not the
seller.
Wait, there's
more -- under a Buyer Representation Agreement, it's the duty of your
"Buyer Agent" to keep your information confidential, and to make sure
that the best price and terms are negotiated for your benefit. They will
tell you the truth about market value, because they are under a contractual
obligation to look after your interests.
On the other
hand, if there is no Buyer Representation Agreement in place, your agent
automatically works for the seller, and they would show you prices that would
validate the seller's asking price. Their job is to protect the seller
instead of you.
Now we have
an obligation (no matter what) to be fair and honest and not misrepresent
facts... but I'm going to repeat this because it's really that important...
The legal
obligation of someone who is not your Buyer Representative is to represent the
Seller.
When you go
to open houses, or do anything WITHOUT a Buyer Representation agreement in
place, you are on your own.
Or worse,
you are working with someone who is not even looking out for you!
Imagine
that. It can get complicated.
As you can
see, NOT signing a Buyer Agency Agreement could cost you thousands of dollars
more than what you might pay with the help of your own Buyer Representative.
The purpose
of the Agreement is so that there is understanding, consent and clear
boundaries about who's really working for who.
It switches
the default setting over to YOUR best interests, instead of the seller.
The
agreement can last anywhere from one hour to several years.
Is it a
commitment in writing? Yes it is. So be sure to ask your
representative if they offer an "Easy Exit Guarantee" if you're not
happy.
All great
businesses offer a satisfaction guarantee, and real estate should be no
different.
Needless to
say, I have an "Easy Exit Guarantee" in place. :)
This isn't a
sales pitch - it's something everyone needs to know who is trading in real
estate, now or later.
Hopefully
that makes sense. If it doesn't, let me know.
This is
probably the most important part of the site.
Almost every
court case and problem that occurs in real estate is because the agent is
either rushing and being sloppy... or it's because they didn't explain this
properly.
Here's a great website to calculate your mortgage payments and help you budget your payments...
Remember that there are close to 200 different loan programs to
choose from, so the payment options and downpayments can vary
tremendously. For the most current and accurate options, call or email
us today.
Current MarketWatch Price Ranges
These are links to full information on every home for sale in Orangeville and surrounding communities, updated on Wednesday March 17th, 2010.
NOTE: Please wait approximately 30 seconds after clicking the link for the information, virtual tours and pictures to fully load in your browser.
for my FREE "Home Finder Program" In doing so you will receive
daily updates by email.
Oct 08 Comparative Housing Prices
If you’re curious about what the average price of a home in Orangeville in comparison to Brampton, Caledon, Newmarket, Mississauga, N. Etobicoke, Oakville, N. Toronto is, click here to see the chart!
USEFUL SITES
Orangeville House Prices Free Report If you’re curious about what Orangeville house prices may be, here’s an easy way to find out what homes are selling for in today’s market.
David's Listings - Inculdes All RE/MAX Take a tour of our homes for sale -- complete with pictures, map link, school districts, financing options and full property details!
Montgomery Village House Prices Free Report If you’re curious about what your Montgomery Village home may be worth, here’s an easy way to find out what homes like yours are selling for in today’s market.
Orangeville Saturday Tour of Homes Join us every Saturday for a special 2-hour tour of homes in Orangeville's most popular neighbourhoods.
The Saturday Tour of Homes is a great way for you to figure out which neighbourhoods and properties are right for you.
Orangeville Homes By Email Free Home and Loan Finder service helps Orangeville home buyers buy lovely homes from $250,000 to $450,000 with Zero Down!
"Home Search" Program The fastest, easiest and best way to search for a home in today's marketplace - GUARANTEED!
Find full information on every listing from every company... PLUS learn about how to find homes that aren't even listed yet!
Search For Orangeville Homes FREE -- Search Hundreds of Homes for Sale in Orangeville, Ontario!
PLUS learn how to buy a home with zero downpayment!
Orangeville Buyer Class Join some of the top housing professionals in Ontario for an informative 2-hour workshop about buying a home in Orangeville.
