Wednesday, December 29, 2010

TREB Affordability Indicator Share of Average Household Income Used for Mortgage Principal and Interest, Property Taxes and Utilities on the Avg


This chart plots the share of average household income that goes toward mortgage principal and interest, property taxes and utilities for the average priced home in the GTA subject to the following assumptions:
1.Average annual or year-to-date home price as reported by TREB
2.20 per cent down payment
3.Average 5-year fixed mortgage rate (Statistics Canada); 25-year amortization
4.Average property tax rate reported by/estimated from the Statistics Canada Survey of Household Spending
5.Average utilities cost reported by/estimated from the Statistics Canada Survey of Household Spending and components of the Consumer Price Index
6.Average household income reported by the Census of Canada. Years in between Censuses estimated using interpolation (years upto2005) or annual growth in average weekly earnings reported by Statistics Canada in the LabourForce Survey (2006 onward).

Toronto Real Estate Board Data and Calculation; Statistics CanadaTREB




Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

TREB MLS® Sales-to-New Listings Ratio Compared to Average Annual Per Cent Change in Home Price Sales


This chart plots the monthly sales-to-new listings ratio (blue line) with year-over-year average annual per cent price change (brown line). When the sales-to-new listings ratio moves higher, average annual per cent change in home prices generally trends higher. When the sales-to-new listings ratio moves lower, average annual per cent change in home prices generally trends lower.





Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Monday, December 27, 2010

TREB MLS® Average Price Monthly Time Series with Trend Line Actual


This chart plots monthly MLS® average price since January 1995. The blue line shows the actual average price. The brown line is the trend computed using a 12-month moving average, which exhibits no seasonal variations or other irregular fluctuations. A substantial change in actual average price must occur to change the direction of the trend.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and all the best to you and your family!
Mark

Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Thursday, December 23, 2010

TREB MLS® New Listings Monthly Time Series with Trend Line Actual


This chart plots monthly MLS® new listings since January 1995. The blue line shows actual new listings. The brown line is the trend computed using a 12-month moving average, which exhibits no seasonal variations or other irregular fluctuations. A substantial change in actual new listings must occur to change the direction of the trend.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

TREB MLS® New Listings Monthly Time Series with Trend Line Actual


This chart plots monthly MLS® new listings since January 1995. The blue line shows actual new listings. The brown line is the trend computed using a 12-month moving average, which exhibits no seasonal variations or other irregular fluctuations. A substantial change in actual new listings must occur to change the direction of the trend.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Monday, December 20, 2010

TREB MLS® Sales Monthly Time Series with Trend Line Actual


This chart plots monthly MLS® sales since January 1995. The blue line shows actual sales. The brown line is the trend computed using a 12-month moving average, which exhibits no seasonal variations or other irregular fluctuations. A substantial change in actual sales must occur to change the direction of the trend.



Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Friday, December 17, 2010

MLS® Average Resale Home Price


This chart plots the monthly MLS® average home price for the current year and the previous three years. The recurring seasonal trend can be examined along with comparisons to previous years for each month.

Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

GTA real estate TREB MLS® Sales-to-New Listings RatioMonthly


This chart plots the monthly MLS® sales-to-new listings ratio (SNLR) for the current year and the previous three years. The recurring seasonal trend can be examined along with comparisons to previous years for each month. When the SNLR moves higher, annual average price growth generally increases –often at a rate well above inflation. When the SNLR moves lower, annual average price growth generally declines and can become negative.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Please watch this Drunk Driving video ad, and pass it on

This video below is very graphic and won many awards. It's about the perils and consequences of drinking and driving.

I sent this video to my two teenage boys who are both driving, but I think that you can view it and send it to anyone who drives a vehicle.

If you can help stop one person from dying from drinking and driving, then we all succeed.

All the best,
Mark


_____

From: A. Mark Argentino, P.Eng., Broker [mailto:mark@mississauga4sale.com]
Sent: Friday, December 10, 2010 10:15 AM
Subject: Please watch this video ad, and pass it on


Lucas and Evan,

This is for the two people in life that mean the most to me and mean the most to your mother.

This is an incredible video. Please read what I say below and watch the video.

Your mother and I are always very concerned about both of you when you are out on the road, whether you are driving or a passenger with your friends.

When we say 'slow slow' we mean it. Your life could be taken away in an instant and we would never be the same family for the remainder of our lives. Please don't ever drink and drive and please don't ever smoke dope and drive.

ALWAYS call us no matter what the time of day or night or no matter where you are if you need a ride, we will always come and pick you up, we don't care where you are or who you are with or what the circumstances are. We don't care about being inconvenienced in the middle of the night. We care about you staying alive, nothing is more important than that.

We don't want to get a call from the police that either of you are DEAD because of a car accident, ever. So please, don't drink and drive, don't go into a car where your friend was drinking and driving, never.

Lucas, Please watch this video and show it to Kate and pass along to your friends.

Evan, I want you to watch both of these video's and show to Naomi and pass along to your friends

Please click on DUI-

or direct link below

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=Z2mf8DtWWd8 DUI must watch video


Love Dad

Canada RESALE HOUSING OUTLOOK according to TD Canada Trust

This is the GTA and Country wide resale housing outlook according to TD/CT
Enjoy,
Mark


RESALE HOUSING OUTLOOK:

CANADIAN HOUSING LANDING SAFELY

While much more stable than its U.S. counterpart, the Canadian existing home
market has nonetheless gone through a wild ride over the last three years.
Sidestep-ping both worst-case scenarios of a bubble and crash, the resale market
appears to have landed safely, and somewhat earlier than we anticipated three
months ago. This begs the question of where the market is headed from here.
Looking out over the next two years, this piece updates our housing market
forecast from the one last published in our September Quarterly Economic Forecast.


The current year appears likely to turn in a performance near what we predicted in September, with annual national sales down slightly from last year. Meanwhile, with listings having seen less upside than anticipated, the annual average home price is set to gain around 7% in 2010.


The most important development since our September forecast is that in-creases in borrowing rates foreseen three months ago by TD Economics and most forecasters have been delayed, as uncertainty lingers and the U.S. Federal Reserve is engaging in a second round of quantitative easing. This translates into an improved home sales and average price forecast for next year. We have upgraded our national home sales forecast for 2011, though annual sales should still end up lower than in 2010. On the price front, in line with higher sales and a consequent but more modest uptick in listings, things look markedly better. We now forecast the annual average price for 2011 to remain essentially unchanged, slipping by less than 1%.


On the flipside, however, higher borrowing rates remain on the horizon, with the consequence that 2012 sales now look weaker than they did in September. In essence, with limited pent-up demand, higher sales activity in the near-term will likely rob from sales thereafter. In this context, the annual average price is likely to drop a bit further, by 1-2%. Rising interest rates will be the main headwind, but will occur against the backdrop of an improving economy. Along with contained increases in supply, continued but modest gains in income and employment should limit the extent to which homes depreciate.


Extreme fears miss the mark


In the midst of the global financial crisis which hit its apex in the fall of 2008, some worried that Canada might be in store for a U.S.-style housing crash. As we argued, that fear proved to be unfounded. The market experienced a severe downturn in 2008 during which time the average resale price dropped by 13% (peak-to-trough), but it rebounded in quick fashion. In July 2009, only six months after hitting bottom, the average price was already back to its pre-recession peak. Mortgage rates at record lows and lower prices set the stage for that unprecedented turnaround. By the end of 2009, the average price had climbed another 6%. As a result, concerns did a complete U-turn, shifting towards the risk that a hous-ing bubble was brewing.


Had the 2009 rebound been sustained for longer, we may well have agreed. But, as expected, it did not last. Sales peaked at year-end 2009, and the average price followed in April 2010. During the first half of this year, sales gave back most of their gains. This was consistent with our view that the 2009 rebound front-loaded activity and borrowed from future demand. Meanwhile, listings retreated and kept the market balance in check, preventing a steep price drop. As of the second half of this year, the market was already experiencing a nascent rebound.


Better rates, better sales - for now


As of October 2010, sales were up a cumulative 13% from July and the average price was on a modest uptrend. With mortgage rates dropping lower than initially expected, sales found their footing ahead of our September forecast - which had predicted a trough in the second quarter of 2011. The surprising decline in mortgage rates were the result of lower Government of Canada (GoC) bond yields, which anchor financial institutions' funding costs. For instance, the benchmark 5-year GoC bond yield was near 2% in late October, which translated into an average posted 5-year fixed mortgage rate near 5% - with effective (i.e. negotiated) rates closer to a historical low 3.5%.


As a result, home affordability in Q3 saw its first im-provement since early 2010. In turn, demand improved. The recent uptick in sales does not appear to be a blip, par-ticularly in light of its regional breadth. There appears to be more at play, for instance, than volatility related to sales tax harmonization in B.C. and Ontario.


Rates in the driver's seat


If anything, the housing market's gyrations over the last three years confirm the great sensitivity of demand to mortgage rates. While other drivers such as income and em-ployment obviously matter, crunching the numbers reveals that they do not weigh in nearly as much as lending rates do. As such, great attention should be paid to where interest rates are headed. What's more, our forecast for income and employment over the next two years is of the uneventful variety - one of continued but modest growth. In essence, income and employment should grow sufficiently to put a floor under demand, but not so strongly as to sharply tilt the market balance in favour of sellers.


Higher rates still on the horizon


Looking ahead, we would caution that the main driver behind our September view that home sales would continue to head lower has not been eliminated, but simply postponed - higher interest rates remain on the horizon. By the same token, the magnitude of increases is expected to be limited. The Bank of Canada's overnight rate is expected to be on hold at 1% until the second half of next year before reaching 2% by year-end 2011, and 3% by year-end 2012.


The overnight rate anchors bank's prime lending rate and variable rate mortgages. Longer-term rates such as a typical 5-year fixed rate mortgage are anchored around 5-year Go Cbond yields. On that front, we forecast a rise of about one percentage point between year-end 2010 and year-end 2011, and a further half percentage point by year-end 2012. Hence, beyond the first half of 2011, we expect both short-term and longer-term interest rates to rise modestly in tandem. <p>Thus, interest rates will tend to erode
home affordability over the next two years - although other factors, such as continued income growth, will soften the blow. Moreover, home affordability starts in a good position, with the typi-cal mortgage consuming 28.5% of the average household income as of Q3/2010. This provides continued near-term support for sales, but only up to the point where rising inter-est rates and sticky prices begin to impair the affordability picture. Over the next two years, our home affordability measure is expected to range between 30% and 32%. In historical terms, this is a manageable erosion in affordability compared to 40% and higher observed in the late 1980s.


Stability is the word


The net result is that home sales can stay elevated for another couple of quarters, but should begin to moderate thereafter. Part of what lies behind the retracement in home sales has been the outsized contribution of first-time homebuyers during the market rebound.


Having no built-up equity or capital gains to fall back on, these buyers are more sensitive to changes in affordability - monthly mortgage payments as percentage of income - stemming from inter-est rate changes than existing homeowners. For potential future first-timers, a slight change in borrowing rates can mean the crucial difference between an entry-level purchase and being priced out altogether. They led the resurgence in sales and prices in 2009, but look set for a role reversal as interest rates eventually begin their inevitable trek upwards.


As sales flatten out and start to slow over the course of 2011, and with listings expected to stay contained, we expect prices to find a near-term ceiling over the next few quarters. Subsequently, a softer market balance will likely result in a modest price drop of 3-5% (peak-to-trough) in late 2011 and early 2012 before prices stabilize later in the year. All said, the higher interest rate trend fortunately starts as the Canadian housing market is well balanced between listings and sales. This balance does not support suggestions that prices should either surge or suffer a steep correction. This is likely to be a modest market adjustment driven by higher borrowing rates, but cushioned by an improving economy. 2010 was not what bubbles are made of. Similarly, under our forecast interest rate profile, the next two years will not be what crashes are made of.


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Monday, December 13, 2010

GTA TREB MLS® New Listings


This chart plots monthly MLS® new listings for the current year and the previous three years. The recurring seasonal trend can be examined along with comparisons to previous years for each month.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Friday, December 10, 2010

GTA monthly MLS® sales for the current year and the previous three years.



This chart plots monthly MLS® sales for the current year and the previous three years. The recurring seasonal trend can be examined along with comparisons to previous years for each month.


Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) Average Prices and GraphFor more information please contact A. Mark ArgentinoA. Mark Argentino, Broker, P.Eng.,Specializing in Residential & Investment Real EstateRE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage2691 Credit Valley Road, Suite 101, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 7A1BUS. 905-828-3434FAX. 905-828-2829E-MAIL: mark@mississauga4sale.comWebsite: Mississauga4Sale.com

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

Gap between 1 year and 5 year mortgage interest rate widens!

Should I go short or long term on my mortgage?


The wider the gap between the 1 year mortgage interest rate and the 5 year
rate the more opportunity there is to save money!



You should consider going short term variable rate for your mortgage for at
least the next while.

Enjoy,
Mark

Prices up sales down for November 2010 GTA Resale Housing Market

Hello,

The December real estate report for November was just released. Comparing November 2010 to November 2009 homes sales were down about 13% and the average price is up 5% for the same period.

We expect that the next month or so will see a 'typical' market, which is slower than most other months of the year.

See the report below.

I hope this finds you healthy and happy,
Mark




GTA REALTORS(r) Report Monthly Resale Housing Market Figures

TORONTO, December 3, 2010 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS reported 6,510 existing home sales in November - down 13 per cent from 7,446 sales in November 2009. New listings were also down 13 per cent annually to 8,642.

On a month-over-month basis, the seasonally adjusted annual rate of sales increased for the fourth straight month to 88,100. This rate was substantially higher than the July low of 67,900.

"The GTA resale market has tightened since the summer. Healthy market conditions continued to support growth in the average selling price," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Bill Johnston.

"Sales through the first 11 months of the year were down only marginally compared to the same period in 2009. We remain on track for one of the best years on record under the current TREB market area," continued Johnston.

The average selling price for November transactions was $438,030 - up five per cent compared to November 2009.

"The average selling price in the GTA is affordable. A household earning the average income can comfortably cover the mortgage payments on an average priced home. Expect the average selling price to grow at a moderate pace in the next while.

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Bank of Canada keeps prime at 1%

The bank of Canada has kept it's key lending rate at 1% meaning that bank prime to customers will remain at 3%.

The Bank of Canada feels that the rate will remain unchanged at least until the middle of next year.

Some feel that the bank raised the prime too fast and too high in the middle and end of 2010 and this has kept our economy from growing as fast as it could.

It will be interesting to see how mortgage interest rates react to this recent announcement, stay tuned!
Mark

Thursday, December 02, 2010

Current mortgage interest rates posted and attainable

Below are the current posted and attainable mortgage interest rates in the
GTA

Have a wonderful day!


Term Attainable Rate Bank Rate
3 Yr Fixed 2.99% 4.45%
5 Yr Fixed 3.49% 5.24%
Variable 2.10% 3.00%
Updated : December 1, 2010

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Median house price multiples in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver

These are very interesting statistics just sent to me from my friend Ben.

According to Demographia, the Median Multiple has been remarkably similar among the nations surveyed, with median house prices being generally 3.0 or less times median household incomes.

In late 2009, Calgary and Montreal were rated "seriously unaffordable", scoring 4.6 and 4.9 respectively.

Toronto made it to the "severely unaffordable" hall of fame with a score of 5.2.

Vancouver ranked the most unaffordable city amongst the 272 markets surveyed with a price-to-income ratio of 9.3 (Exhibit 4.1).

And the price of a home relative to rental income in Canada is amongst the highest in the developed world.

Not good.

In 2006, Fed chairman Ben Bernanke testified in front of Congress that he didn't think housing prices were overpriced.

He doubted that home prices would fall much since home prices had not fallen for 60 years.

As we now know, that reasoning was an enormous logical fallacy.

--"Toro", "Canadian Housing Bubble", RunningOfTheBulls.Typepad.com, August 29, 2010.

Hi Ben,

Very interesting statistics. Yes, the ratio of income to house price is often a measure of how over inflated the prices can be and as you have pointed out, our ratio's are very high. Many say that this is sustainable because of low interest rates, but if the rates increase dramatically, look out! I believe we will have low rates for at least another 5 to maybe 10 years, this is the only way the economy will not fall in upon itself.

Bernanke's remarks that house prices will not fall because they have not fallen in 60 years is really absurd!

Thanks for the great stats!
Mark

Friday, November 19, 2010

Mortgage interest rate update Fixed rates on the rise

Good morning,

Fix rates are rising. It is time to lock the fixed rate now. They are so low, but won't last long.

Best rates for real fully qualified mortgage placements:

5-year fixed: 3.29%
3-year fixed: 2.79%

For pre-approval rate hold, you can get as low as 3.49%, which can be held for 120 days.

This special won't last long, so act soon to lock it in.

Best variable rates are as:

5-year variable: P-0.75% (currently at 2.25%)
3-year variable: P-0.90% (currently at 2.10%)


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Mid November 2010 sales down but prices up for GTA Resale Housing Market Figures

Sales figures for mid month are in. Comparing November 2010 to November 2009 the number of sales is down about 16% Year to date sales are up slightly.

Average price for November 2010 is $437,554 which is about 5% HIGHER than same period in 2009

The full article is below...


GTA REALTORS(r) Report Mid-Month Resale Housing Market Figures

TORONTO, November 16, 2010 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS(r) reported 3,076 sales through the Multiple Listing Service(r) (MLS(r)) during the first two weeks of November 2010.

This represented a 16 per cent decrease compared to the 3,666 sales recorded during the same period in November 2009. Year-to-date sales amounted to 78,526 - up slightly from the 2009 total.

"The number of transactions remained high relative to new listings through the first half of November, promoting a healthy rate of price growth compared to last year," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Bill Johnston.

The average price for November mid-month transactions was $437,554 - up more than five per cent compared to the average of $415,066 recorded during the first 14 days of November 2009.

"Mortgage payments on the average priced home remain affordable in the GTA based.

This is why the average selling price continues to increase," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Saturday, November 13, 2010

RE: Information Request

I received a question from Steve that my readers frequently ask:

Hi Mark

So if the market does not crash how are people going to pay for homes ?

Should the prices keep rising..... Already most are paying 60% of there income towards their home, how can this continue?

Steve



Hi Steve,

Thanks for your comments.

People have been saying "How are people going to pay for homes ?" since the mid 80's There are always people who can afford more expensive homes. As long as the economy stays healthy and people are employed, then real estate will continue to get more expensive over time.

60% house payments/income is too high. That's house poor. People have to realize this is too high and puts too much pressure on their lives. They have to settle for less, move out from the expensive core area and commute.

What do you think?

Mark

Friday, November 12, 2010

Current posted and achievable Mortgage Interest Rates

This table shows the Current posted and achievable Mortgage Interest Rates

TERM POSTED Achievable RATE*
6 Month 4.45% 3.75%
1 Year 3.20% 2.40%
2 Year 3.45% 2.99%
3 Year 4.00% 2.90%
4 Year 4.94% 3.39%
5 Year 5.19% 3.39%
7 Year 6.09% 4.60%
10 Year 6.40% 4.95%
Variable Rate 2.30%
Prime Rate 3.00%
*

Rates may vary and are subject to change without notice OAC.
Rates Last Updated: Thursday, November 11, 2010

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

TD Bank announces their Economic News for November 2010

Below is the press release for TD bank for their November outlook.


Moderation seems to be a common thread in their announcement.

Enjoy!
Mark

November 4, 2010

TD Economics

Data Release: Small Business Confidence Perks Up In October

* The CFIB's small and mid-sized enterprise confidence index rose from 63.6 in September to 66.9 in

October. This is its highest level since May 2010 and marks the end of a 4-month string of declines.

* British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta were the main drivers of this month's increase, with confidence in

those provinces rising by 10.0%, 9.8%, and 9.1%, respectively.

* On an industry basis, 11 of 13 industries recorded better confidence in October. In particular, the

construction and resources sectors drove the headline index, with confidence improving by 20.1% and 14.8%, respectively. Adding to that were an 8.4% increase in arts, recreation & information services, and a 9.8% improvement in professional & business services sectors.

* There was an improvement in capital spending intentions, specifically in computers, communication, and office technology, which have increased by more than 13% in the last two
months. Hiring intentions have also improved marginally, which is likely due to the declining share of small and mid-sized businesses complaining of insufficient domestic demand.

Key Implications

* Today's report was a welcome addition after four straight months of declines in business confidence.

* At the same time, however, the fact that the headline index has been relatively trendless so far this year reflects that businesses are continuing to see improvements in demand, but only moderate. This is consistent with TD Economics' forecast for lukewarm 1.5-2% growth in the second half of 2010.

* The fact that businesses are becoming more optimistic regarding capital spending provides some additional support for our expectation of continued strength in machinery & equipment investment. After rising by 30% on an annualized basis, M&E is likely to be a major contributor to growth in the coming quarters.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

GTA real estate market is healthy

This is the latest report from TREB for last month. It shows that the current GTA Real Estate Market is healthy.

October Price Growth Reflects Healthy Housing Market Conditions

November 3, 2010 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS(r) reported 6,681 sales through the Multiple Listing Service(r) (MLS(r)) in October 2010. This represented a 21 per cent decrease compared to the 8,476 sales recorded in October 2009.

Through the first ten months of the year, sales amounted to 75,582 - up one per cent compared to the January through October period in 2009.

"The annual change in sales and average selling prices has been quite uniform across the GTA and by property type as the market has balanced out from record levels of sales in the second half of 2009 and first few months of 2010," said Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) President Bill Johnston.

"The composition of GTA home sales does differ depending on location.

Condominium apartments accounted for 42 per cent of total sales in the City of Toronto and almost 60 per cent of sales in TREB's central districts," Johnston continued. "In regions surrounding the City of Toronto, in contrast, low rise home types accounted for almost 90 per cent of transactions."

The average price for October transactions was $443,729 - up five per cent compared to the average of $423,559 reported in October 2009. The average selling price through the first nine months of the year was $430,802.

"The average selling price in the GTA has continued to grow relative to 2009 because home ownership has remained affordable," said Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real Estate Board's Senior Manager of Market Analysis. "A household earning the average income in the GTA can comfortably afford the mortgage payments associated with the purchase of an average priced home."

"The outlook for mortgage rates and income growth over the next year is favorable. The average home selling price could increase moderately next year and remain affordable for the average GTA household," continued Mercer.

Median Price
In October, the median price was $366,000, from the $357,000 recorded during October of 2009.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Monday, November 01, 2010

Current mortgage interest rates in Toronto area

The table below shows the current mortgage interest rates in Toronto area,
posted and attainable rates.


Terms Posted Rates Attainable Rates
6 MONTHS 4.45% 3.95%
1 YEAR 3.20% 2.44%
2 YEARS 3.45% 2.69%
3 YEARS 4.00% 3.04%
4 YEARS 4.94% 3.49%
5 YEARS 5.29% 3.59%
7 YEARS 6.09% 4.75%
10 YEARS 6.40% 5.15%
Rates are subject to change without notice. *OAC E&OE

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Current mortgage interest rates comparison of posted versus attainable rate

Current mortgage interest rates comparison of posted versus attainable rate


Terms Posted Rates "BEST" Rates
6 MONTHS 4.45% 3.95%
1 YEAR 3.40% 2.44%
2 YEARS 3.55% 2.69%
3 YEARS 4.10% 3.04%
4 YEARS 4.94% 3.54%
5 YEARS 5.29% 3.64%
7 YEARS 6.09% 4.75%
10 YEARS 6.40% 5.15%
Rates are subject to change without notice. *OAC E&OE


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Monday, October 25, 2010

MLS will be opening up to the public in Canada- proposal ratified

Good morning,

This article below is an excellent summary of the results of the vote and the potential implications that opening up the MLS system to the public may have.

A more open system will encourage private sellers to list their homes on the MLS for a small fee yet allow for the current system to continue as it is.

One more choice for the consumer!

Enjoy reading,
Mark




CREA members approve MLS deal with Competition Bureau Sunday, 24 October
2010 22:17
Written by David Hatton, Editorial Team


The winds of change were blowing outside a St. John's hotel Sunday afternoon, as representatives of the country's 101 real estate boards voted 97 per cent in favour of a deal that some warned could mean the end of the Canadian Real Estate Association.

At the very least, it will change the current face of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

The controversy began earlier this year when Competition Bureau Commissioner Melanie Aitkin announced she was investigating complaints of anticompetitive behaviour, including concerns CREA kept its members from offering services that would lower costs for consumers.

PropertyGuys.Com Ink Deal with Ontario Brokerage Ahead of Sundays Vote On The MLS
PropertyGuys.com, Canadas largest FSBO company has partnered with Harvey Real Estate Co, a Hamilton-based real estate brokerage which means that the brokerage can now put its clients listings, should they choose, on the Multiple Listings Service (MLS). Walter Melanson, PropertyGuys.com Director of Partnerships believes this is now the beginning of the marketplace opening up: "today, we're attracting a small-niche part of the market that
believes it doesn't need the MLS," and he adds that around ...

Some of the biggest complaints involved the popular MLS system, with complaints agents were charging full commission just to post a listing.

If clients didn't use an agent, they couldn't list their property on MLS.

That sparked intense negotiations between CREA and the Competition Bureau in the months leading up to Sunday's vote. And if CREA members didn't vote in favour of the deal, there were looming threats of a court battle next spring with the federal government.

CREA president Georges Pahud said he welcomed the decision to ratify the agreement and end the Competition Bureau battle.

"We are pleased that after careful consideration and reflection, real estate boards and (local real estate) associations from across Canada have endorsed the agreement."

"The commissioner and CREA have agreed that its rules as well as those of members should not deny or discriminate against realtors wishing to offer mere posting services. CREA does not believe that such rules exist today, but if they do, they must be repealed or boards will lose their license to operate under the MLS trademarks" Pahud said in a statement.

Reaction from Canada's estimated 100,000 agents was swift.

"If this vote goes through, it's time for the full time real estate sales people to leave the CREA," Greg Chiang, of ReMax Omega in Newmarket, Ontario, wrote in an email prior to the vote.

"We will pull all our listing(s) from the MLS system. Let all the FSBOs start their own MLS system ...It takes money to build up a great real estate system, (and) that is why most discount systems fail. The FSBOs want to take a free ride on our backs ...use the system that we as full time realtors have paid for many years to develop and make what it is today."

Others questioned why the Competition Bureau was even getting involved.

"I don't understand why the brokerage community has been targeted, and why the system we have built up with our fees over the years should be treated like public property," Steve Glogowski, an associate vice-president of Royal LePage Signature Realty in Toronto, said in another email.

"Brokers do not have a monopoly on selling property. Everyone is free to advertise and negotiate their sale in the newspapers or on the web and not use the MLS," he added.

Glogowski suggested instead of "caving in", CREA should disband and hand over the MLS system to its members. "How can a system with dozens of owners be considered a monopoly?" he asked. "If people think they will save a few bucks by selling on their own, they are sadly mistaken."

The deal with the Competition Bureau could result in buyers listing at an unrealistic price and not getting serious offers, not negotiating effectively based on experience and having a have increased chance of fraud, he said.

As rumours of the deal filtered out in advance of the vote, some entrepreneurial realtors saw opportunity. Details emerged late last week that the largest of those private sale companies, Moncton, N.B.-based PropertyGuys.com, had signed a deal with Harvey Real Estate Co. Ltd, a tiny brokerage in Hamilton, Ont.

The arrangement would see Harvey listing PropertyGuys.com client's properties in Ontario on the MLS site for a fee, if the client wishes. The MLS profile would then link to a client's customized PropertyGuys.com profile.

The broker has been posting PropertyGuys.com listings for a week now and there is still a backlog, according to a report in the local New Brunswick Business Journal. It added PropertyGuys.com expects the overall opening of the marketplace to boost their listings by 30 to 40 per cent in the next year alone.

How will this vote affect you? We want to hear from you, tell us how you feel using our comments feature, below.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Friday, October 22, 2010

Bank of Canada Economic News - October 21, 2010

This is the latest news from the Bank of Canada on the Canadian growth
outlook.
Enjoy!
Mark


TD Economics

October 20, 2010

Data Release: Bank of Canada takes more dovish stance on economic outlook

* The Bank of Canada (BoC) has downgraded its global and Canadian economic
growth outlook for a second straight Monetary Policy Report (MPR), revising
their Canadian economic growth forecast by an average of 0.5 percentage
points in 2010 and 2011. The BoC forecasts economic growth to be 3.0% in
2010, 2.3% in 2011, and 2.6% in 2012.

* The downward revision to the outlook is largely a reflection of
international and currency developments. The BoC predicts that passing the
economic baton to private demand in the U.S. and other advanced nations
might prove to be a more daunting task than it had originally expected,
especially as these countries are plagued with high unemployment and a
continued need to restore household and government balance sheets. The BoC
has further outlined the volatility in currency markets and tensions related
to global imbalances as a downside risk to the global recovery.

* But the concerns are not just international in nature. The most
interesting change to the BoC's Canadian economic outlook was the downward
revision to components related to domestic demand. The BoC has outlined the
level of Canadian household debt as a major risk to the Canadian economic
outlook, and anticipates that high debt levels will constrain growth in
household expenditures throughout the forecast horizon. In fact, the BoC
forecasts for consumer spending growth to contribute just 1.2 percentage
points to economic growth in 2011 and 2012. That is consistent with tepid
consumer spending growth of 1.8-2.0%. Meanwhile, also related to the level
of household debt, residential investment is expected to drag on growth in
each of those years.

* The BoC's real GDP forecast is consistent with an output gap that closes
at the end of 2012 - a year later than estimated in July's MPR.

* Largely in line with slower economic growth and a more gradual uptick in
economic slack, the BoC has made a downward revision of about 0.2 percentage
points to its core inflation outlook from Q3/2010 to Q1/2012. Core inflation
is expected to moderate from its current rate of 1.6% to 1.5% by early 2011,
and then gradually rise to 2.0% by 2012.

Key Implications

* The downgrade to the BoC's economic forecast is not surprising. And, in
fact, the more dovish stance on the global economic outlook, in the U.S. in
particular, is more consistent with advanced nations digging their way out
of a synchronized financial crisis, than July's more optimistic forecast.

* The BoC's economic outlook is largely consistent with our forecast for
Canadian economic growth, although we are slightly more pessimistic on
growth in 2011, when we expect Canadian real GDP

growth of 2.0%. We see some downside room with core inflation in the
near-term, with a bottom at 1.3% in the Q1/2011.

* The BoC has raised the issue of household debt as a risk to the outlook.
The level of household debt has been on its radar for some time now. It is
our view that Canadian debt levels have become slightly excessive. For now,
the strength in Canadian domestic demand has started to unwind. The BoC's
consumption and residential investment forecast is consistent with a
significantly lower rate of household borrowing. The risk remains that,
given sustained low interest rates, domestic credit demand may
re-accelerate, becoming an even larger issue down the road. Under this
situation, monetary policy may not be the best tool to curb borrowing,
particularly at a time when the economy is fragile. Rather, regulatory
changes may be a more appropriate channel for prudential action.

* We note that the BoC's outlook represents the slowest recovery on record
for the Canadian economy, providing justification for rates to remain
stimulative through 2011.

* Putting it all together, we anticipate that the BoC will remain on hold
until March of next year. As the global recovery solidifies, the BoC will
want to resume lifting rates off emergency levels. We believe that BoC will
proceed with gradual rate hikes through 2011 and 2012, bringing the
overnight rate to 2.00% and 3.00% at the end of each respective year.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Bank of Canada holds the line on Bank Rate and Interest Rates in Canada

Hello,

This morning the Bank of Canada decided to maintain its overnight rate at 1.00%. Usually the prime rate moves along the overnight rate, which means that your variable interest rate will remain the same until the next Bank of Canada meeting on December 7th, 2010.

This announcement has no impact on fixed rates. In fact, the fixed mortgage rates are at ALL TIME LOW.


IF YOUR VARIABLE MORTGAGE RATE IS MORE THAN 2.5% (or a fixed rate over 4.10%) PLEASE CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS POTENTIAL SAVINGS.

Email me if you need more details.


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Friday, October 15, 2010

Motivational and inspirational quotes - Feng Shui

Someone sent me these motivational and inspirational quotes and I thought I
would post them on my blog, great read, Enjoy!

Read more at my site at this link:

http://www.mississauga4sale.com/Motivation-Success-Ten-Scrolls.htm

Mark

 

ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.


FOUR. When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.

FIVE. When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.

SIX. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.

EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

TEN.. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.

TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.

THIRTEEN! .. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'

FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

FIFTEEN. Say 'bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.

SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.

EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice

TWENTY- ONE. Spend some time alone.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm


Thursday, October 14, 2010

The current state of gold, silver, gasoline and the stock markets

Gold @ 1377.40
Silver @ 24.21
CDN $ @ 1.0009 I guess that is par.
Gasoline 107.4 cents per litre (good grief!)
TSX 12,674
DJIA 11,093

It's a little surreal when you look at the numbers above, who would have believed it - all this hysteria in metals and the markets leads me to believe that the edge of the cliff or at least a dip in the roller coaster may be near...... although I am an eternal optimist, I am very concerned that things have "run up" a little too quick......... only time will tell........

Where do we go from here?

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Average Home Prices January 1995 to Current Month in the GTA

This Chart shows the Average Home Prices January 1995 to Current Month.
Note the clear pattern of spring increase, summer decrease, fall increase
followed by winter decrease

This chart shows how the average home selling price cycles throughout the
year since 1995. it shows that prices typically increase in the spring,
decrease during the summer months, increase again in the fall and then
decrease again over the winter months.

The cycle repeats itself with almost absolute certainty, year after year
since 1995 up until 2008 when the market began to soften overall.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Historical Mortgage Interest Rates Since 1951

This chart shows you the 5 year mortgage interest rate since 1951. Clearly
we are at or near all time low interest rates and have experienced low
interest rates for about the past 6 or 7 years or so.


I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Friday, October 08, 2010

Mortage Interest Rate Comparison- 1 year rate versus 5 year rate

Mortage Interest Rate Comparison this graph shows the 1 year rate versus 5
year rate and the larger the gap between the 1 and 5 year rate, the more
opportunity for savings

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Thursday, October 07, 2010

GTA Single Family Residential Chart showing Average Price of Homes 1987 to Current Month

This chart shows the Average Price of Homes 1987 to Current Month Source:
Toronto Real Estate Board (single family residential average dollar values)
Due to district revisions, caution must be exercised when making historical
comparisons

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

Current real estate market in the GTA, mortgage interest rates

Read my latest newsletter talking about the current real estate market in
the GTA, mortgage interest rates and more at this link:


http://www.mississauga4sale.com/newsletter/latest_newsletter.htm

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Tuesday, October 05, 2010

September real estate housing market in the GTA

This is the latest press release from TREB regarding the September real estate market in the GTA


GTA REALTORS(r) Report Monthly Resale Housing Market Figures

TORONTO, October 5, 2010 -- Greater Toronto REALTORS(r) reported 6,310 sales through the Multiple Listing Service(r) (MLS(r)) in September 2010.

This represented a 23 per cent decrease compared to the 8,196 sales recorded during the same period in 2009. Through the first nine months of the year, sales amounted to 69,069 - up four per cent compared to the first three quarters of 2009.

"The level of sales in the second half of 2010 has been lower, representing a balancing out period following record levels of sales in the latter half of 2009 and first few months of 2010. We remain on track for one of the best years in history for existing home transactions in the GTA," said Toronto Real Estate Board President Bill Johnston.

The average price for September transactions was $427,329- up five per cent compared to the average of $406,877 reported in September 2009. The average selling price through the first nine months of the year was $429,657.

"Resale homes in the GTA remain affordable," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

"It is important to consider the positive impact of declining mortgage rates over the past two decades. Simply considering home prices relative to incomes does not allow for an accurate analysis of affordability," continued Mercer.

"The share of average household income going toward a mortgage payment on the average priced home in the GTA remains within accepted lending guidelines. This is why the average home selling price has continued to grow."






I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm

Monday, October 04, 2010

REMAX Market Share in Mississauga for August 2010

The graphic below shows that REMAX holds the highest market share in the
Mississauga area for listings sold in the month of August

Clearly if you are thinking of selling your home in Mississauga, REMAX is
the company you should choose!


May I also point out that I have the premier top ranking site on
http://www.google.com/ for all of Mississauga. Try
searching the phrase Homes for Sale in Mississauga or any similar search
term and my site comes up number one. This means that you will receive huge
internet traffic on your listing. Read more about


http://www.mississauga4sale.com/Achieving-Number-One-On-Google.htm


how
this benefits you.


Have a great day!

Mark


Tuesday, September 28, 2010

RE: Graph - Average Price of Homes 1987 to Present



I received an email with good questions about the average price graphs and will post the question and my answer below.


Mark



_____


From: Ronald S.]
Sent: Wednesday, September 22, 2010 11:37 AM
To: mark@mississauga4sale.com
Subject: Graph - Average Price of Homes 1987 to Present


Hello Mark,

The information preceding the graph indicates that it relates to single family homes. Does that include condominiums? If so, is there a graph that excludes them? I understand that condominiums dropped more sharply than detached homes in the early 1990s, and it would be interesting to see that separately.

Regards,

Ron S.





Hello Ron,

Yes, single family includes condominiums, all housing types that are single family. See the housing types and breakdown for last month in the table below, as an example.

Let me see if I can find the data for the same period for only condominiums.




From what I have seen in the past, there will be no breakdown for only condos. Each area and district is broken down for each housing type, but it would be a monstrous task to go through each monthly issue for each year to gather the data for each area and then put them all together. I'll see what I can find out and get back to you if I find something.

Thank you for your comments and questions,
Mark







Monday, September 27, 2010

TREB west districts days on the market

this graph shows the TREB west districts days on the market and indicates
that compared to the last year it is taking slightly longer to sell a home
in the west districts of the GTA

Friday, September 24, 2010

Graph showing the TREB average prices over the past 10 years

This is a graph showing the TREB average prices over the past 10 years and
clearly indicates that prices have increased steadily for the past year
since 2000

Whether this trend continues or not is yet to be seen!
I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate

Thursday, September 23, 2010

TD Canada Trust Economic News comments

This is the latest news from TD Canada Trust


Provincial Retail Monitor


September 22, 2010

HIGHLIGHTS

* Canadian retail sales retreated by 0.1 per cent in July relative to a
month prior. This is in stark contrast with analyst expectations calling for
a M/M gain of 0.6 per cent.

July's performance comes on the heels of a slightly downwardly revised
growth of 0.0 per cent in June (from an initial estimate of 0.1 per cent).

* The weakness was not broad-based at the regional level, with 3 provinces,
namely British Columbia, Ontario and Nova Scotia, reporting declining sales.
The implementation

of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) in the former two provinces on July 1st
2010 as well as the 2 percentage point increase in the prevailing HST regime
in the latter province in

July served as major impediments to growth in retail sales.

* Nova Scotia recorded the largest decline at 5.3 per cent. This performance
follows the largest M/M gain recorded in June at 3.3 per cent. British
Columbia and Ontario

experienced M/M declines in sales of 0.4 and 0.3 per cent, respectively in
July.

* On the flipside, Canadian sales excluding British Columbia, Ontario and
Nova Scotia increased by 0.5 per cent. The most significant gain in sales
was observed in Manitoba

at 1.6 per cent, representing this province's third consecutive increase in
the indicator. Quebec experienced a gain in sales of 0.5 per cent after a
string of three consecutive

monthly decreases.

* Relative to July 2009, above-national gains in retail sales were recorded
in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Manitoba. Sales gains in
British Columbia and Alberta come, however, on the heels of earlier
weakness. Sales remain 2.9 per cent and 8.6 per cent, respectively below the
level reached in September 2008 (i.e. the month during which retail sales
peaked at the national level).

* The regional concentration of retail sales declines suggests that HST
played an outsized role in this indicator's performance in July. Data for
provinces not impacted by the implementation or increase in the HST point a
better picture for retail sales at the onset of Q3.

I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy!

All the Best!

Mark

A. Mark Argentino
P. Eng. Broker
Specializing in Residential & Investment Real Estate
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.
Providing Full-Time Professional Real Estate Services since 1987
BUS 905-828-3434
FAX 905-828-2829 CELL 416-520-1577
mark@mississauga4sale.com
Mississauga4Sale.com

* Thinking of selling your home in the next 3 to 6 months? Would you
like a Complimentary & Quick Over-The-Net Home Evaluation ?
www.mississauga4sale.com/internet-evaluation.htm


* Power of Sales and Foreclosures
www.mississauga4sale.com/Power-Sales-Bank-Sales-Alert-Request.htm


* If you have not already signed up to receive my monthly real estate
newsletter, you may do so here: On-Line Real Estate Newsletter sign up
www.mississauga4sale.com/popupquestion.htm


* See seasonal housing patterns
www.mississauga4sale.com/TREBprice.htm


* Would you like me to send you a desk or wall Calendar?
www.mississauga4sale.com/Calendar-Order-Form.htm