There’s no denying it. Buying a home can be challenging, especially when the market is hot. While saving up for your down payment is one thing, competing with other home hunters who all want the same property is quite another. Fortunately, if you find yourself in a multiple-offer scenario, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success—and make the process as stress-free as possible.

Here are a few tips you can try if you’re competing for your dream home…

1) Understand the market

Whether you’re purchasing in Milton, Burlington, or elsewhere, it pays to understand the local market. That’s because current conditions will directly impact what constitutes a good offer—which is especially important when there are multiple bids on the table. Fortunately, an agent with up-to-the-minute insight on market trends, local prices, and comparable homes will be well-positioned to help you craft a winning strategy.

2) Know your own limits

Of course, it’s not just the market you should have a handle on. Understanding your financial situation is equally crucial. It’s all too common to get swept up in a bidding war and offer more than you can comfortably afford. As a rule of thumb, your housing expenses (including mortgage payments) should be no more than 30 per cent of your monthly take-home pay. Obtaining pre-approval can also help you budget, as it will give you a strong sense of how much financing you’ll likely receive.

3) Be prepared to act quickly

Here’s another great reason to obtain mortgage pre-approval: it will allow you to act fast when you find the perfect property. You’ll know what you can afford—and sellers will see you as a serious buyer. In a market where inventory moves fast, it could make all the difference. Other tips for taking quick, decisive action include setting thorough home-buying criteria, understanding your dealbreakers, and ensuring you’re mentally prepared to make a move when you find the right place.

4) Make the strongest offer possible

Buyers often assume that they’ll have an opportunity to up their bid during negotiations. It certainly happens. That said, in a multiple-offer scenario, you may not get that second chance. That’s why it’s often wise to make your best bid the first time around. Of course, every set of circumstances is different, and there are times when leaving room to bargain is the best course of action. Luckily, a skilled local agent can help you determine which strategy is right for you.

5) Work with a true professional

Buying a home presents challenges in the best of circumstances. When there are multiple bids on the table, the process only becomes more complex—and the consequences of making a small misstep can be much steeper. In other words, getting it right is key. From understanding seller motivations to crafting the ideal offer, a local agent with a proven track record can walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and empower you to make a truly informed purchase!

To help you make an informed home purchase, we’re providing our handy buyer’s guide.

Every year, home buyers who swore they’d never leave Toronto are moving to greener pastures. Without a doubt, Burlington is one of their top choices. From its beautiful lakefront views to the all-around high quality of life it provides, this thriving city has never been more popular. That said, many enthusiastic buyers aren’t quite sure where to begin. Sound familiar?

If this city is relatively new territory for you, start by getting the lowdown on local neighbourhoods, homes, and prices. You can find out more here in our Burlington real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Home buyers have been flocking to Burlington in recent years, and for good reason. The fantastic quality of life in this little corner of Ontario is no longer a secret. In fact, the city has earned the impressive titles of “Best Community in Canada” and “Best Place to Raise a Family” by Maclean’s Magazine.

Home prices have grown with Burlington’s popularity, but there’s still a fairly wide range available. You can find starter condos for as little as $500k, or spacious waterfront houses that sit near the $6 million mark. It all depends on what you’re looking for—and whatever it is, you’ll probably find it here.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

In Burlington, you’ll find a wide variety of homes to meet nearly every set of buying needs and preferences. Here are just a few fantastic local options.

Ideal For Families

The Orchard

Situated in Northeast Burlington, the Orchard is a relatively new neighbourhood (think 1990s). The area is known for its beautiful suburban houses and reputable local schools. Proximity to the majestic Bronte Creek Provincial Park—along with plenty of outdoor trails and playgrounds—make the area ideal for parents with little ones. with Appleby Plaza nearby, you’ll also find no shortage of retail and dining options.

Tyandaga

With its attractive trails and scenic waterfront views, Tyandaga is a favourite among families. This community to the northwest features public tennis and golf clubs, which means there’s never any shortage of fun things to do. You’ll also find some beautiful homes, including many in the Georgian, Colonial, and Tudor styles. Some of these houses are on the slightly more affordable side—at least by Burlington standards.

Plains

If you’re looking for a well-established neighbourhood near the city’s core, consider Plains. The area is more affordable than many, with a mix of well-maintained older and newer homes. Thanks to nearby GO transit and the Fairview Mall, it provides a low-hassle lifestyle for families. Plains is also close to the Royal Botanical Gardens—a lovely spot for weekend picnics with the kids!

Historical Gems

Downtown

If you’re looking for a bonafide heritage home (we’re talking about century-old houses with pretty period details), look no further than the downtown core. Along with these historic jewels, the area contains charming townhouses, luxury condos, and everything in between. Of course, the local homes aren’t the only thing to love about living in the city centre. From beautiful Spencer Smith Park and the urban waterfront to a plethora of retail and dining hotspots, Downtown Burlington has it all.

Roseland

Whether Roseland residences count as “historic” depends on your definition. Sure, the older homes here fall shy of the 100-year mark—and there are plenty of newer, custom-built affairs. That said, you’ll find an abundance of half-century-old houses here that are nothing short of stunning. Mature trees and lakefront views only add to the splendour—while proximity to the QEW and Burlington Mall make day-to-day life ultra convenient. Needless to say, home prices tend to be on the steep side.

Shoreacres

In the south end, you’ll find a prestigious neighbourhood with an abundance of charm. Like Roseland, Shoreacres is made up of majestic streets lined with beautiful homes that are around 50 years old. There are also plenty of green spaces (including Paletta Lakefront, Henderson, and Strathcona Parks). Nearby Appleby Mall puts all the conveniences residents need at their fingertips, while the presence of John T. Tuck Public School (which gets top-notch marks from the Fraser Institute) makes the area an ideal one for families.

Newer Homes

Alton Village

If only a brand new home will do, you may want to consider Alton Village. Situated in North Burlington, this lovely suburban community is home to some truly beautiful houses (including many from heavy-hitter developers like Mattamy and Fernbrook Homes). It’s also the site of Norton Community Park (with its play structure, fields, and off-leash park, among other features). Lastly, the area is a commuter’s paradise, providing easy access to the 407, QEW, and the nearby Appleby GO Station.

What to Know About Burlington Real Estate…

Trying to decide whether Burlington is right for you? There are a few major benefits that may tip the scales in the city’s favour. For one, your home-buying dollars will go further here than they would in a place like Toronto. While it’s true that prices have risen in recent years, the value for money in Burlington is well worth considering. In other words: if you’re looking for more space to spread out, this a great place to find it.

In particular, many of the city’s neighbourhoods feature an abundance of bungalows. These layouts have been making a major comeback, thanks to their practicality—and how flexible they are. Whether you’re looking for a place that could accommodate a home office, an extra bedroom, or whatever future renovations you desire, a bungalow with good bones could be ideal.

The truth is, Burlington has a lot more to offer—in terms of communities and housing stock. By speaking with an agent who knows the city intimately, you can find a place that fits your budget and checks off all your boxes!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Burlington real estate market? Reach out today!

Are you searching for the ideal family-friendly community? When you drive down peaceful tree-lined streets, see kids and parents out and about, and immediately picture you and your loved ones living there, too—that’s when you know you’ve found it.

Here are a few things to look for as you begin your search…

1) The Right Feel

The neighbourhood that’s right for you will depend on your family’s unique needs. But whether you’re in the suburbs, city, or a small town, being near other parents with kids will likely make you feel at home. You’ll probably want a place where you can get to know your neighbours—and be a part of a close-knit community. Many families also prefer quieter areas outside the downtown core, where there’s less traffic.

2) School District

Now’s the time to do your homework and look into local school districts. The Fraser Institute is a trusted resource when it comes to rankings for both elementary and secondary options. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a couple of schools, you may also want to book a time to visit each one. Taking this step will give you a better feel for the potential environments. You should also look into nearby daycares if you have a younger child or need extra support.

3) Amenities

To us, a family-friendly neighbourhood isn’t complete without convenient amenities. When you need to do a quick grocery run or pick up some supplies for a last-minute school project, you’ll be thankful you have all the shops you need nearby. And when it’s finally time to relax, having a great selection of local restaurants, cafes, and maybe even a local wine shop nearby may be just what you need to unwind.

4) Parks

Need a bit of fresh air? Kids and family members of all ages can appreciate a beautiful green space, especially when it’s within walking distance of your home. Whether it’s a playground with splash pads and basketball courts or a wide-open park with biking and walking trails, having a place to enjoy the great outdoors could greatly improve your family’s quality of life. In fact, the more options you have around, the better!

5) Family-Friendly Houses

Finally, let’s get to what matters most: your future home. Your ability to find the right house, condo, or attached living space will depend in part on how well you know your family’s current and future needs. Do you need an extra parking space for more than one car? How many bedrooms and bathrooms will you likely require in the years ahead? Should there be room for a potential in-law suite one day?

Finding the right home for your family can take some effort, but the right guidance will simplify the process. With our team, you’ll get all the help you need to plan for the immediate future—and far beyond.

You’ve planned and saved, and now it’s finally time to start your home search in earnest. Not so fast. Before you take the next step, you’ll want to ensure you have helpful expertise on your side.

The truth is, the right real estate guidance could mean a smoother, more enjoyable buying experience—and a better purchase price. If you’re ready to buy, read our top tips on how to hire the best local professional for you!

Conducting Interviews

Contrary to popular belief, not all buyer’s agents are the same. By speaking with a few different professionals, you can get a sense of what’s out there—and help ensure that you find someone who’s well-equipped to serve your unique buying needs.

Before interviewing prospective agents, jot down a few important questions. Some that you may want to touch on include:

• How well do you know my neighbourhoods of interest?
• Can you walk me through the buying process?
• Can you tell me a bit about your negotiation style?
• If I find myself in a multiple-offer scenario, how will you help me win?
• What’s the best way to contact you?

In addition to providing you with insight into the interviewee’s approach, sitting across from someone can help you get a sense of what they’re really like. If you feel at ease, it’s likely a good sign!

The Right Experience

It goes without saying that you want to work with someone who has a very solid grasp of the buying process. From obtaining pre-approval to making an attractive offer to wrapping up closing details, they should understand the common challenges associated with every step—and how to overcome them.

Next up, consider community expertise. If an agent has been working in your area of interest for years, they’re probably a great resource. If they can tell you about recent price shifts, local school districts, and the places that serve up the best coffee, it’s another potential sign that you’re in good hands!

You’ll probably also want to get a sense of whether they’re familiar with all property types. For example, you want to work with someone who has a reasonable amount of condo expertise if you’re buying a unit. Likewise, it may be helpful to know whether they’re used to working with buyers like you. In some ways, your needs will be different depending on whether you’re a first-time buyer or a downsizer.

Ask About Connections

These days, the best real estate agents offer full-service experiences. That means more than hands-on attention, ongoing expertise, and a willingness to help at any time. It’s also about having an available network of trusted professionals to assist you with anything that falls outside of their scope of expertise.

Trust us when we say, finding an agent with a reliable list of industry contacts is worthwhile. From mortgage brokers to real estate lawyers to professional movers, having insider connections who represent the best in the business can make the buying process much lower-stress.

Speak to References

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to ask for references. Some buyers are hesitant to take this step, but agents are used to it. Perusing reviews and testimonials can give you a good idea of the level of service (and results) a professional provides, but it won’t tell you the whole story. Nothing beats being able to ask questions firsthand!

There’s no doubt that finding the right agent takes a little more work than picking the first professional you come across, but it’s worthwhile. By doing your homework, you can help ensure a better buying experience—and a result you’ll be more than happy with!

Are you ready to buy a home? Before you jump into the Milton real estate market, you should make sure you know what you want. From price points to property types to local schools and green spaces, there’s no shortage of things to keep in mind. Fortunately, getting to know the town—and taking a bit of time to set your home-buying criteria—can help ensure that you find the picture-perfect place to live.

Learn how to find the right home here in our Milton real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Wondering how much your dream home will set you back in Milton? If you’re in the market for a house, you can likely expect to pay somewhere between $850,000 and $1.5 million. If you’re more interested in a condo, prices will probably be in the $450,000 to $600,000 range (with two-bedroom units typically on the higher end).

Affordability is one of the most important things to consider as you embark on the home hunt. When you start budgeting, be aware that experts recommend spending no more than 30 per cent of your monthly income on household expenses—including mortgage payments.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

No matter what you’re looking for in a home, you’ll likely find it in one of Milton’s wonderful communities. Here are just a few of our favourite options.

Ideal For Families

Beaty

If you’re looking for the ideal family-friendly community, you can’t go wrong with Beaty. This idyllic area contains twelve parks, a wonderful library, and two of the best places for kids to get an education in Milton (Hawthorne Village Public School and Guardian Angels Catholic School).

When it comes to real estate, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options. Brick facades and front porches give these properties a comfy, traditional feel.

Dorset Park

It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Milton. Leafy greenery, convenient amenities, and easy access to GO Transit make Dorset Park perfect for families. While this picturesque community is located near the core, it feels like a hidden gem.

There’s plenty of wonderful housing stock here, including beautiful Neo-Colonial and Tudor options, bungalows, and even some townhouses. Spacious lots and mature trees only add to the appeal of this charming neighbourhood.

Timberlea

In the heart of Milton, you’ll find Timberlea. Its tree-lined streets and central location make it a favourite among home buyers. Close proximity to great schools and fantastic shopping (including Milton Mall and the retail along Nipissing Road) only make it a more in-demand place to live.

Most Timberlea houses are a few decades old, and they tend to be on the larger size—as do the lots they’re built on. The area is home to an abundance of split levels, many of which feature garages and plenty of storage space. Needless to say, this community is one of the most attractive in town for growing families!

Historical Gems

Old Milton

Looking for a gorgeous historical home? In Old Milton, you’ll find an array of spacious older houses—many of which have been here for over a hundred years. The lots are generous too! If you’re searching for something a little more economical, check out the local selection of post-war bungalows.

Old Milton is also home to some of the prettiest parks in town Rotary Park is ideal for tennis enthusiasts, while Mill Pond features a picturesque gazebo and waterfront). Quaint local businesses, which include buzz-worthy eateries and boutiques, keep things lively.

Newer Homes

For some buyers, there’s nothing quite like a brand new living space. Here are a couple of communities where the homes are pristine.

Ford

Ford is one of the newest neighbourhoods in Milton—and one of the most family-oriented. With its great schools (including several Catholic options), ample green space, and access to grocery stores and other amenities, this pretty community is the perfect place to raise kids.

Here you’ll find spacious new-build homes situated on wide lots. Typical features include garages, front porches, and big windows that look out onto the street. The area is also highly walkable, and there are plenty of bike lanes for local cyclists.

Willmott

Willmott is a perfectly-planned community that was developed in the mid-2000s. Its key attractions include Milton Community Park (a 7.2 hectare green space) and Milton Sports Centre (with fitness, aquatic, and sports facilities).

Large single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options are plentiful here. These recently-built living spaces are in great condition—and the red-brick exteriors that many of them boast lend the area a certain charm.

Scott

If it’s gorgeous green space you’re after, you’ll find it in Scott. Parkland and protected natural areas surround the community, providing plenty of natural beauty. For those who want to give their kids a faith-based education, nearby Queen of Heaven Catholic Elementary is highly reputable.

Homes here tend to be on the pricier side, but they’re worth it. We’re talking about plenty of square footage, immaculate interiors, and yards that serve as private oases. Another housing highlight is the Green Life condo building, which offers low maintenance fees and incredible energy-efficiency!

Advice For Buyers

If you’re preparing to buy the ideal piece of Milton real estate, there’s one thing to keep in mind. The town is growing incredibly quickly. In particular, detached homes are in high demand—so make sure you’re ready for the competition.

One of the best ways to appeal to sellers is by making a firm offer. That means no conditions. To take this step safely, you’ll want to have your financing in place—and be comfortable accepting the results of a pre-listing inspection.

You should also ensure that your deposit funds are easily accessible, since you may have to act fast when you find the right property!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Milton real estate market? Reach out today!

 

Take the Tour

In recent years, there’s been a very public conversation about the buying and selling of real estate. The subject is open bidding, an offer process that proponents say leads to greater transparency and fairness. Some even believe it’s good for the market (since it can, in theory, prevent excessive price escalation). Having said that, there are also skeptics—on both the buyer’s and seller’s side. Do you know where you stand on this important real estate issue?

When it comes to open bidding in home transactions, here’s what you should know…

What is open bidding

Let’s start by delving into how things work now. As it stands, any buyer who makes an offer on a home is notified when a competing bid is made. However, they aren’t made privy to the details. From the dollar amount to the closing date, elements of the new offer are kept under wraps. This puts buyers who wish to stay in the running in an uncertain position. When they think about how to amend their bid, they’re essentially in the dark.

In October of 2018, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) made some recommendations to the province. The organization suggested that all elements of offers made on a home be disclosed, so long as everyone involved in the transaction agrees. If this process became commonplace, here’s what the implications might be.

What it would mean for buyers

For buyers, an open-bidding process can lead to more informed decisions. With all the details on the table, purchasers can choose to up their bids or bow out—and do so based on more than speculation. Since they’ll know which number they have to beat, they can also avoid vastly overpaying when they’re eager to win their dream home.

A more transparent process could also be more pleasant for buyers. As anyone who’s been in a bidding war will tell you, it can be stressful at times. When you’re not approaching the situation blind, you’ll have fewer headaches to contend with (and a less time-consuming back and forth).

While the benefits of open bidding are clear to most buyers, there are those who have raised privacy concerns. Fortunately, since all parties would have to agree, these potential issues could be avoided.

What it would mean for sellers

On the other side of the transaction, some sellers feel that agreeing to an open-bidding process means giving up leverage. They reason that when buyers don’t know the contents of other offers, they’re more likely to put forth their highest bids. That may be true in some cases, but it’s not always.

An auction-style offer process, whereby buyers bid against one another openly, has the potential to lead to intense competition. That could work out in a seller’s favour. It could also attract buyers who tend to shy away from traditional bidding wars, which often leave them wondering if they ever stood a chance. The result? More offers on the table for sellers—a clear advantage.

The bottom line

The conversation surrounding open bidding has yet to be resolved. It’s true that it may not be the ideal solution for every buyer and seller, but it’s another potential option—one that’s attractive to many. Chances are that this issue will pick up steam in the years ahead, so make sure you stay in the know!

Are ready to start the search for your first home? Reach out today to get started!