RE/MAX Niagara Realty Ltd.

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Fonthill/Pelham

Fort Erie

Grimsby

Lincoln

Niagara Falls

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Port Colborne/Wainfleet

Thorold

Welland

West Lincoln

Scott Sweitzer

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<p>Do It Yourself (DIY) projects can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enhance your living space while tapping into your creativity. However, not all DIY projects are created equal. Some can bring great satisfaction and value, while others might lead to frustration and potential disasters. We explore both the fantastic projects, as well as projects to avoid doing yourself.</p><h3>Good Idea: Painting Walls and Furniture</h3><p>Painting is one of the most popular and rewarding DIY projects for a reason. It allows you to transform the look and feel of a room or furniture with relatively little cost and effort. Ensure you prepare the surfaces properly and invest in quality paint for a professional finish. The sense of accomplishment when you step back and admire your freshly painted walls or refinished furniture is priceless.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Structural Changes</h3><p>Any project involving structural changes, such as removing walls, should be left to professionals. Altering the structural integrity of your house without the necessary expertise can lead to severe consequences, compromising the safety of your home.</p><h3>Good Idea: Installing Backsplashes or Accent Walls</h3><p>Adding a backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom is a great DIY project that can elevate the aesthetics of the space and protect the walls from moisture and stains. Also adding accent walls to shared living spaces can add chic style and character to your home. With a wide range of materials, styles, and easy-to-apply adhesive materials available, you can customize the look to suit your taste without needing professional help.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Electrical Work</h3><p>Working with electrical systems is dangerous and should only be undertaken by licensed electricians. Incorrect wiring or electrical installations can cause fires, electrical shocks, or even be fatal. Always hire a professional for electrical projects.</p><h3>Good Idea: Building Custom Shelves or Bookcases</h3><p>Creating custom shelves or bookcases allows you to optimize storage and display space while adding a personal touch to your home. Using basic tools and materials, you can design and build shelves that fit your specific needs and match your interior decor.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Plumbing Repairs</h3><p>Plumbing repairs often seem simple but can quickly escalate into major problems if not done correctly. Water damage can be costly to repair, so it’s best to hire a licensed plumber for any plumbing-related issues.</p><h3>Good Idea: Upcycling Furniture</h3><p>Breathing new life into old or worn-out furniture is not only environmentally friendly but also a fun and creative DIY project. With a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or reupholstering, you can give outdated pieces a modern and stylish makeover.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Roof Repairs</h3><p>Roofs are crucial to protecting your home from the elements. Climbing on the roof without proper safety gear and knowledge can result in accidents and leaks if not repaired correctly. Leave roof repairs to experienced professionals.</p><h3>Good Idea: Installing Smart Home Devices</h3><p>Adding smart home devices like programmable thermostats, smart lighting, or security cameras can enhance your home’s efficiency, security, and convenience. Many of these devices are designed for easy DIY installation, providing you with immediate benefits without the need for professional assistance.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Gas Appliance Installation</h3><p>Gas-related tasks, such as installing gas stoves or water heaters, require specialized expertise to avoid gas leaks and potential hazards. Always hire a licensed professional for any gas-related projects.</p><p>DIY projects around the house can be both rewarding and beneficial, but it’s essential to know your limits and understand when to call in the professionals. By choosing your DIY projects wisely, you can create a harmonious and inviting home while maintaining peace of mind. Happy DIY-ing!</p>

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF DIY

MARKET UPDATE: JULY 2023

<p>"<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075858744578&amp;__cft__%5B0%5D=AZUZCqwN73sZW2poyH1p4wCfcGpb5mVw-jhw919KOsS4ii3Gj9XE0906Xwwxt5dP2Sp8YkRdlu94M3Z2ehst5zaoQiyHXaUtfOkke7Cv01THUtiZldrTA8gmCh00KC4ySZQXUQfdZwMTc4alyEv6Frk9ebkJHwVhQ65zDPsOsvLlP77OLLsZaAe1XSDSnz_UUVU&amp;__tn__=-%5DK*F">Scott Sweitzer</a> was fantastic! Incredibly knowledgeable overall and provided a patient no pressure approach and made sure we got the house we wanted. We were not the easiest clients to deal but Scott always came with a smile and put up with 30+ house visits made during the process. Looking for a house and the right Agent, SCOTT IS YOUR MAN!! Thanks Scott for all of the help and always going above and beyond!."</p><p><br></p><p>Thanks you again for taking the time to leave this incredible review, and congratulations again!</p>

<p>Selling a tenanted investment property in Ontario can be a profitable venture, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. To ensure a smooth and legal transaction, here are the steps you need to follow:</p><h3>1. Provide Written Notice to Your Tenants</h3><p>Before you sell your investment property, you must inform your tenants in writing of your intention to sell. This notice must include the date you plan to list the property for sale, the contact information for the real estate agent or lawyer handling the sale, and any other relevant details.</p><h3>2. Follow the Required Notice Period</h3><p>In Ontario, landlords must give tenants 24 hours’ notice before showing the property to potential buyers. However, if you plan to hold open houses or other events, you’ll need to give your tenants more notice. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 specifies the required notice periods, so be sure to review the act carefully before proceeding.</p><h3>3. Allow Tenants to Remain in the Property</h3><p>As the landlord, you are obligated to allow your tenants to remain in the property during the sale process. This means you must work around their schedule and ensure that the sales process does not disrupt their living situation.</p><h3>4. Disclose the Tenancy Agreement to Potential Buyers</h3><p>When listing your tenanted property for sale, be sure to disclose the terms of the tenancy agreement to potential buyers. This will help them understand the rights and responsibilities of the tenants and ensure they are fully informed before making an offer.</p><h3>5. Protect Tenant’s Rights Throughout the Sale Process</h3><p>It’s important to ensure that the tenant’s rights are protected throughout the sale process. This includes giving them reasonable notice of showings, respecting their privacy, and ensuring they are not unduly disturbed during the sale process.</p><h3>6. Provide Notice of Termination if Required</h3><p>If the new owner wishes to take possession of the property, you’ll need to provide the required notice period to the tenants as per the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This notice period can vary depending on the circumstances, so be sure to consult with a real estate lawyer or licensed agent for advice.</p><h3>7. Close the Sale and Transfer Ownership</h3><p>Once all conditions have been met and the sale is ready to close, the property ownership can be transferred to the buyer.</p><p>In summary, selling a tenanted investment property in Ontario requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above and consulting with legal professionals as needed, you can ensure a successful and legally-compliant sale.</p>

SELLING A TENANTED INVESTMENT PROPERTY IN ONTARIO

<p>You’re ready to buy a house (or at least start thinking about it). The housing market can be an intimidating place for first-time homebuyers. But it doesn’t have to be! Here’s 10 of your most common questions answered!</p><p><br></p><h4>1) Who Qualifies As A First-Time Home Buyer In Ontario?</h4><p>You are considered a first-time home buyer if, in the four-year period, you did not occupy a home that you or your current spouse or common-law partner owned.</p><p><br></p><h4>2) How Much Do First-Time Home Buyers Have To Put Down In Ontario?</h4><p>When you purchase a home, you are expected to put down a down payment while your mortgage will cover the rest. The amount you are expected to put down depends on the price of the home you purchase:</p><p><br></p><p>$500,000 or less = 5% of the purchase price</p><p>$500,000 to $999,999 = 5% of the first $500,000 of the purchase price, then 10% for the portion of the purchase price above $500,000</p><p>$1 million or more = 20% of the purchase price</p><p><br></p><h4>3) What Benefits Do First-Time Home Buyers Get In Ontario?</h4><p>When buying your first home, there are more costs involved than you may expect.</p><p><br></p><p>Thankfully, first-time home buyers in Ontario have exclusive access to programs to help offset some of the costs. From Rebates to Tax Credits, there are a variety of initiatives available to support prospective home buyers on their journey to homeownership.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/">Download Our First-Time Buyers Benefit Guide</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/first-time-buyer-guide-banner-1024x512.jpg"></a></p><h4><br></h4><h4>4) What Do Banks Look For When Buying A House?</h4><p>Lenders assess income, current debts, and credit history to determine the borrower’s creditworthiness. A mortgage affordability estimate uses an estimate of other debt payments as a percentage of gross monthly income and of the down payment as a percentage of the purchase price.</p><p><br></p><h4>5) What Is The #1 Feature To Consider When Buying A Home?</h4><p>The location. Location is the one thing about a house you can never change no matter how much money you spend, so it’s absolutely critical that you confirm any property you buy is in a convenient spot. Remember, this is your first home, and most likely not your forever home. You may not get the double-car garage and sprawling greenspace with a pool in the first home you purchase, but getting your foot in the market is the first step towards the home of your dreams.</p><p><br></p><h4>6) How Long Does It Take To Find A Home?</h4><p>Once your financing is in place pre-approved for a mortgage you are satisfied with, the hunt can begin. The amount of time it takes to find your home can vary depending on market conditions and your personal needs. Typically, a home can be found in 30-45 days, but sometimes longer if inventory is low.</p><p><br></p><p>In a buyer’s market, however, things can move very quickly. Lots of homes available mean you can see more quicker. One busy weekend and you could be a homeowner by Monday!</p><p><br></p><h4>7) How Much Are Closing Costs in Ontario?</h4><p>Home closing costs typically amount to anywhere from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. Closing Costs Include: Home Inspection, Appraisal Fees, Lawyer Fees, Moving Costs and Condo Status Certificate Fees.</p><p><br></p><p>Remember there are benefits and credits available to First-Time buyers that could assist in these costs.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/">Download Our First-Time Buyers Benefit Guide</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/first-time-buyer-guide-banner-1024x512.jpg"></a></p><h4><br></h4><h4>8) What Are The Ongoing Costs Of Owning A Home?</h4><p>If you’re used to renting, many of the ongoing costs of homeownership might be new to you.</p><p>When you’re thinking about purchasing a home, try to estimate the ongoing costs like:</p><p>In addition to one-time setup costs, you’ll have to pay monthly utilities; electricity, gas, water, internet, and so on. Many of these costs are much higher than what you’d be used to paying as a renter.</p><p><br></p><p>Property taxes vary widely depending on where you live and the valuation of your home, but generally will be thousands of dollars rather than hundreds. You can usually find the property tax history of a home you’re looking at either directly in the listing, or by asking your REALTOR® to find out.</p><p><br></p><p>Maintenance and repair. You should budget between one to four percent of your home’s value for annual maintenance. It’s a wide range, but you can use the age of your home as a guide for which end of the scale you’ll be on.</p><p><br></p><p>Home insurance. If you had tenant insurance, you may be used to certain premiums, but insuring a whole house costs more. You can get a home insurance quote for your new house to give you an idea of the cost.</p><p><br></p><h4>9) Are There Any Problems With The House? Have There Been Problems In The Past?</h4><p>This is a big one. Sellers are required to disclose any KNOWN defects in the home that they’re aware of, but that protection isn’t perfect. Sometimes issues can exists without the seller even knowing (example, foundation cracks behind finished walls may not be easily seen).</p><p><br></p><p>Having your potential home inspected is extremely important, especially as a first-time buyer. It’s not a mandatory condition, but it’s encouraged for piece of mind and confidence with your purchase.</p><p><br></p><p>Professional home inspectors look for both visible and invisible issues throughout the house. Visible issues include problems like discoloration, mold, rotted wood, or cracks. Invisible issues like indoor air quality and radon gas leakage into the basement can only be detected with specialized equipment.</p><p><br></p><h4>10) How Much Do I Have To Pay a REALTOR® as a Homebuyer?</h4><p>Nothing!</p><p><br></p><p>In most cases, you do not have to pay your REALTOR® anything to help you purchase a home. Instead, the sellers typically pay their REALTOR® a fee, and then that listing agent pays the buyer’s REALTOR® for bringing the buyer and facilitating the transaction.</p><p><br></p><p>What’s important here is making sure you work with a REALTOR® that you trust for the biggest purchase of your life. Niagara has over 1500 licensed REALTORS® to choose from. It helps to ask friends and family members for referrals or advice, but also do your own due diligence and find the REALTOR® that shares your vision and values. For example, check out the <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/meet-the-team/">members of the Portfolio Realty Group</a>!</p>

10 BIGGEST QUESTIONS FROM FIRST-TIME BUYERS ANSWERED!

THE JUNIPER INN- SPOTLIGHT ON PORT DALHOUSIE

<p>I have worked with Scott a few times and he never ever disappoints! When purchasing my home Scott knew top to bottom everything about the home. He gave great ideas and had my best interest the entire time. Thank you so much for making everything so stress free.</p>

<p>This was the first time in my adult life I  was alone making serious decisions. Scott was a steady, calm and guiding light from start to finish.</p><p>Thank You Scott!</p>

<p>Not only did Scott find us our forever home, he made sure we got it and then sold our home in one day for over asking. He’s easy to deal with and has an excellent knowledge of the area and market trends. Would highly recommend his services.</p>

<p>Scott Sweitzer is an excellent Real Estate Agent. He is very responsive to calls, emails and questions. Scott is very knowledgeable about the local area. Scott is a true professional and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a realtor. I am completely confident in his abilities and expertise. Super impressed!</p>

<p>We have been working with Scott for many years and his professionalism and dedication to his clients is unwavering. He will continually show up until he has found the perfect home for you and always with a smile on his face.  I would highly recommend Scott to anyone looking to purchase or  sell a home or for any real estate needs. A++++</p>

<p>Scott was very responsive and timely. I appreciated his good nature and patience while looking for my new, and hopefully permanent home in St Catharines. His advice, knowledge of the areas and thoughtfulness put me at ease and his willingness to participate in my visions have made me comfortable in my decision. Thanks Scott - looking forward to my next adventure.</p><p><br></p>

<p>St. Catharines is the largest city in Niagara, and the sixth largest urban area in Ontario. With over 130,000 residents, it’s no surprise the city is filled with several dynamic neighbourhoods.</p><p>But which areas are worth your attention and investment in 2023?</p><p>The entire Portfolio team put together our top 5 choices of neighbourhoods to watch in 2023.</p><h2>#1 – Western Hill</h2><p>Years ago there were several reports and excitement about reguler Go Train service coming to Niagara, and the St Catharines station is located in Western Hill. This caused a period of activity years ago.</p><p>Now, not so much.</p><p>But with the <a href="https://www.insauga.com/expect-huge-rise-in-go-train-service-as-region-renovates-st-catharines-niagara-falls-train-stations/">recent purchase of the VIA Rail stations in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines by Niagara Region</a>, that means by the end of next year, residents can expect a marked increase in GO Train service.</p><p>Coupled with its close proximity to Brock University and the Downtown Core, this makes Western Hill a cost-effective investment, especially for those desperate to break into the housing market.</p><h2>#2 – Merritton &amp; Secord Woods</h2><p>An affordable, family-oriented area that is already showing lots of development potential. Secord Woods especially seeing lots of infill and rededication of open land, including the <a href="https://phelpshomes.com/mc2-2-2/">Merritton Commons</a> and <a href="https://stkittsurbantowns.com/">St Kitts Urban Towns</a></p><p>The neighbourhood is swimming with R2 zoning, which opens up several possibilities to convert single family homes to multi-units. This allows young families and investors to create cashflow in their primary, or additional properties.</p><p>Current residents of Secord Woods &amp; Merritton have immeasurable pride in their community, and have long-standing roots in the area, some for decades or generations!</p><p>Spend the day in the area on Labour Day, and the comradery witnessed will prove this point!</p><h2>#3 – North End</h2><p>It may not be a community per se, but rather the large swaths of land north of the QEW. Home to the largest proportion of St. Catharines residents, It’s primarily suburban in nature, although development ranges from high-density to large upscale homes on the lakeshore.</p><p>This area is family-focused, first and foremost. Home to some of the best-rated schools in the city (Port Weller, is ranked #3 in the city). Nearby are several parks, waterfront trails, and community centres. And of course a local secret; Sunset Beach.</p><p>North End has been a hot spot for out-of-town buyers for years to settle down in. Lately, as outside buyers have slowed down, this leaves a window of opportunity to break into this hot spot.</p><h2>#4 – Downtown &amp; Fitzgerald</h2><p>The Fitz! If you know, you know.</p><p>The downtown and mid-town area has seen a resurgence in popularity over the last 10 years. At first due to it’s affordability, but as younger homeowners and families move in, the area has slowly transitioned into one of the trendiest and hippest areas to live.</p><p>Close proximity to the QEW allows for easy access for a daily commute. Also within walking distance to the Downtown Core, home to some of the finest dining spots in the city, the Meridian Centre, and the Performing Arts Centre.</p><p>Buyers looking to build sweat-equity in their home, purchasing a war-time property in this area and working as you live has been a popular starting point for first-time buyers.</p><h2>#5 – Port Dalhousie</h2><p>Of course, <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/contact-us/">the neighbourhood you can find our office!</a></p><p>Port Dalhousie in the summertime is the place to be in St Catharines. Incredible dining, shopping, community events, and easy access to the beach &amp; marina.</p><p>With the ongoing redevelopment of land, Port is seeing the resurgence it rightfully deserves. Thanks to the hard work of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PortDalhousieBWC/">Port Dalhousie Beautification and Works Committee</a> the local roots are deeper and stronger than ever. A tight-knit community that takes pride in their neighbourhood and is more than welcome to show it off.</p><p>Any areas we missed? <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/contact-us/">Feel free to let us know!</a></p>

FIVE ST CATHARINES NEIGHBOURHOODS YOU NEED TO WATCH IN 2023

$500,000 to $749,999
in gross commissions

CHAIRMAN’S CLUB

Over $1 million in gross commissions
No length of service required

HALL OF FAME

$250,000 to $499,999
in gross commissions