25 January 2023

Vacant Home Tax

The government of Canada has implemented an annual 1% Vacant Home Tax on foreign-owned unused homes. As a result of this, our out-of-country friends will need to make a decision of renting, continue not using or even sell the property.

Now that you know the facts, if you want to discuss the implications of the Vacant Home Tax, let me help you.

Here is the link for more details: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/excise-taxes-duties-and-levies/underused-housing-tax.html

UncategorizedUncategorized 25 January 2023

Canada Housing Benefit

In September 2022, the government introduced a top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, which upon Parliamentary approval, will deliver a tax-free payment of $500 directly to 1.8 million low-income renters who are struggling with the cost of housing.

The federal benefit will be available to applicants with an adjusted net income below $35,000 for families or below $20,000 for single Canadians, who pay at least 30 percent of their income towards rent.

I got a great apartment for you, choose one or two:

Here is the link for more details: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/child-and-family-benefits/top-up-canada-housing-benefit.html

Real Estate featuresReal Estate featuresReal Estate features 13 January 2023

Market Update January 12, 2023

The real estate market has been a rather steady increase of activity in every marketplace, both the inventory and number of sales have seen a slow and steady increase with the exemption of Lincoln. A number like this is very typical at this time of year in Niagara. As we move thru the remainder of January and into February, we should continue to see this number grow in every marketplace in Niagara. The average price range through the region and my immediate market place which is Fort Erie remains fairly consistent from one another, which is at $650000. Remember that the statistics above is just a snapshot of the region for the past 7 days.

Some positive news that we had in the marketplace is that the unemployment rate dipped again, following the report of Stats Canada of around 100000 new jobs in the month of December. When there is a job, there is money to spend on housing. We hope to see these numbers shine a positive light on the number of sold houses as we move through 2023.
Another item to be aware of is that the Bank of Canada has indicated they may move the interest rates again at the end of January in an effort to hedge the rising inflation. We will be paying attention to these two factors and how they impact the housing market.
Of course, the rising interest rates can affect negatively the buyer’s appetite. I will keep you updated as we move through 2023.
11 January 2023

Foreign Buyer Ban : What is Prohibited and Penalties?

What is Prohibited
The law bars the purchase directly or indirectly of residential buildings with 3 units or less, as well as single family, a semi-detached or a condo unit. The prohibition also applies to vacant land without a “habitable dwelling” zoned for residential or mixed use.
Indirect purchases include purchases made through partnerships, trusts or other entities seeking to avoid the prohibition.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-Canadians violating the prohibition, or any person or entity that knowingly helps, can be fined up to $10,000.
A Sales Agreement Signed in violation of the law will be valid and be required to close. Subsequently, the government would, by court order, require the property be sold. It can’t sell for more than what was paid as the buyer would not be allowed to profit from the sale.
 Still confused? Let me guide you in any of your real estate concerns, Drop me a line!
Real Estate features 10 January 2023

Foreign Buyer Ban Will It Affect You?

Foreign Buyer Ban ON as of  January 1, 2023

The Federal Government’s Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act will be in effect as of January 1, 2023.
Who Does it Prohibit?

  • Foreign Individuals: The Act prohibits non-Canadians from buying for two years. So if an individual is not a Canadian citizen, is not a permanent resident or is not registered under the Indian Act they are prohibited from buying.
  • Foreign Corporations: The Act also prohibits the following foreign corporations from buying directly or indirectly.
  • Corps based in Canada that are privately held,
  • Corps not listed on a Canadian stock exchange,
  • Corps that are controlled by someone who is a non-Canadian,
  • Entities formed under Canadian or provincial laws controlled by a non-Canadian,
  • Entities not formed under Canadian or provincial laws.

A non-Canadian or a foreign-controlled corp. is defined as an entity in which a con-Canadian owns 3% or more or has 3% or more voting rights.

Still confused? Let me guide you in any of your real estate concerns, Drop me a line!
Uncategorized 10 January 2023

Mortgage Rates at the Start of 2023

Mortgage Rates  at end of December, 2022
  • The 5-yr fixed high ratio 5.40% to 5.74%.
  • The 5-yr variable high ratio: 5.50% to 6.40%
  • The 5-year fixed conventional: 5.10% to 6.14%
  • The Prime Rate is 6.45%

NOTE: Rates shown are for “A” rated deals only and don’t apply for BFS, rentals, vacation homes, second home purchases, etc.

There will be a lot of predictions,but what is important is the “NOW”. Let me guide you in any of your real estate concerns, Drop me a line!
Stress Test Qualifying Rate at 5.25% applies to high ratio and conventional mortgages. Mortgage lenders use the greater of the qualifying rate or the contract rate plus 2 points.
Rates are Based On Approved Credit, May vary between geographic areas
(Source: Centum Financial Group Inc.)
At Home 6 January 2023

How to Make the BEST Shortbread Cookies in Under 30 Minutes | Cooking at Home With Barb

Today we will be baking delicious shortbread cookies for my open house.

Shortbread cookies are a classic, crumbly and buttery treat that is perfect for any occasion.

We will start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, we need to gather the ingredients. We will need 1 cup of unsalted butter, one cup of white sugar, two and a half cups of all-purpose flour, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Now it’s time to get started! In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the flour and mix until the dough comes together. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the dough until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out rounds with a cookie cutter and place them on a greased baking sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes!

 

Watch the video for visual instructions.

 

Restaurants 7 December 2022

Rizzo’s House of Parm is the perfect place for a date

I was invited to their opening, and Rizzo’s House of Parm is ideal for a date night. Nestled in the heart of Ridgeway Crystal Beach, Ontario, this charming establishment offers a relaxed and intimate setting that is perfect for spending time with your partner.

The restaurant has a wide selection of delicious Italian dishes to choose from, and the service is always excellent. You and your date will feel like royalty as you dine on authentic Italian cuisine that has been made with love.

Rizzo’s House of Parm is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a romantic night out.

History of the Rizzo’s House of Parm Restaurant

Matheson has no problem showing off his passion for the things he loves in the place he calls home. It’s not just another business venture for him; it’s much more personal than that too.

After naming it after his first daughter Rizzo (Matheson), he continued by saying that returning home was a fantastic experience for him and his whole family and that the return trip gave them so much to cherish.

Image

photo credits: Matty Matheson from his Twitter account

The menu is readily available, and customers can anticipate traditional home-cooked Italian dishes such as spaghetti with meat sauce and chicken parmigiana. It is abundantly clear that the new opening means more to Matheson than any of his previous endeavors because he is involving his family in several different ways in the process.

Even the restaurant’s slogan, which reads “Homemade Italian food, from our family to yours,” emphasizes the importance of the family unit. One can only assume that the additional love and care will be reflected in the food that is being served because one has no other choice.

People in Ridgeway Crystal Beach looking for traditional dishes from Italy must visit Matheson’s newest venture, Rizzo’s House of Parm.

The Ambiance

Your date night awaits at Rizzo’s House of Parm on Ridgeway Crystal Beach. This Italian restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic evening out.

The soft lighting and the gentle strains of music in the background set the intimate atmosphere. You and your date can cozy up in one of the booths while you enjoy a delicious meal.

The menu offers everything from classic pasta dishes to chicken and veal entrees. And be sure to save room for dessert—the tiramisu is to die for!

The Food

You’re in for a real treat when you visit Rizzo’s House of Parm. The food is delicious, and the perfect place for a date night.

The menu includes all your favorite Italian-American dishes, from chicken parm to pasta dishes to calzones. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try one of their specialty pizzas.

No matter what you order, you’re sure to enjoy every bite. The waitstaff is friendly and attentive, ensuring you have everything you need. So why not book a table today? You won’t regret it!

The Service

When you walk into Rizzo’s House of Parm, you’re immediately greeted by the hostess and seated. The service is fantastic—your water glass is never empty.

The waitstaff is attentive and friendly, and they have a great sense of timing when taking your order and bringing out your food.

You get the feeling that they really care about their customers and want them to have a good time, which makes Rizzo’s an excellent choice for a date night.

 

Rizzo’s House of Parm is a terrific date-night restaurant. The cuisine is delicious and reasonably priced, and the staff is attentive and friendly. Rizzo’s House of Parm is a great date spot.

Restaurants 7 December 2022

Exploring Thai Cuisine at City Thai Restaurant

You’re in the mood for Thai food, but you need help figuring out where to go. You could try a place that’s close to home, but you’re curious about what else is out there. Why not check out City Thai Restaurant? They’re known for serving up authentic Thai cuisine, and they’re located in Fort Erie, Ontario.

The restaurant is family-owned and -operated, and they taking pride in using fresh ingredients to create delicious dishes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something light and refreshing, City Thai Restaurant has you covered. They’ve got a wide variety of menu items to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that appeals to your taste buds.

Why not give them a try? You won’t be disappointed.

Introduction to City Thai Restaurant

Welcome to City Thai Restaurant, a little piece of Thailand in Fort Erie, Ontario. The owner, City, has putting his heart and soul into this restaurant, and he taking great pride in serving authentic Thai cuisine.

City Thai Restaurant opened its doors on February 24, 2021. City chose Fort Erie because there were no other Thai restaurants in the area. He wanted to bring the delicious flavors of his homeland to his friends and neighbors in Niagara. The Restaurant located at mouth of Niagara River and you can see the beautifull view of Peacbrige and Bufallo, Ontario. Also it accesible to American friends who love Thai Food.

Signature Dishes at City Thai Restaurant

The appetizers are a great way to start your meal. We recommend the T,hai Salad which is a mix of fresh lettuce, cucumbers,, tomatoes and Thai herbs. The Thai Soup is also a favorite, made with lemongrass, galangal, li,me leaves and Thai spices. Also, you can choose your t ping in  your Oyster Dishes like you can add chicken, shrimp, vegetables and nuts.

If you’re looking for something a little more hearty, try one of  Thai Curries. They have a variety of options, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices. The Green Curry is a popular choice, made with chicken, bamboo shoots, eggplant and green curry paste. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Massaman Curry which is made with beef, potatoes, onions and peanuts.

If you’re in the mood for something stir-fried, they got you covered there too. Stir-fried Dishes are cooked with garlic, ginger and onion in a light soy sauce. The Pad See Ew is a popular choice, made with chicken, Chinese broccoli and eggs.

Bringing the Taste of Thailand to Fort Erie

You’ve probably heard that Thai food is one of the most delicious in the world. And City Thai Restaurant is here to show you that it’s true.

We’re a family-owned and operated business, and we take pride in serving up authentic Thai cuisine. Our menu features traditional favorites like curries and pad thai, as well as more unique offerings like our signature tom yum soup.

No matter what you order, you’re sure to taste the flavors of Thailand. And we’re always happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. So why not come and visit us today? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Healthy Options at City Thai Restaurant

When it comes to the health factor, City Thai Restaurant doesn’t disappoint. Not only do they offer a variety of delicious vegetable dishes like the yam pla duk fu, a steamed catfish salad with mango, herbs, and roasted peanuts, but you can also order healthy protein-packed dishes like Thai moo yang: grilled pork served with grilled vegetables and jasmine rice.

And then there’s their use of coconut milk – an ingredient that adds an amazing richness to curries and other dishes while still being heart-healthy. Plus, they use plenty of fresh herbs and spices like turmeric and ginger to add flavor without all the added salt or fat. What’s even better is that they provide nutrition information on each dish so you can make informed decisions about what’s best for your body.

So if you’re looking for authentic Thai cuisine in Fort Erie that won’t break the bank or sabotage your diet goals, head over to City Thai Restaurant for some deliciousness!

The Ambaince

Ready to exploring the world of authentic Thai food? Then head on over to City Thai Restaurant in Fort Erie, Ontario. Sure, it’s a bit of a drive, but trust me—it’s totally worth it when you go through the door and experience the atmosphere.

At City Thai, you’re instantly transported to Thailand with its Asian-inspired decor and soothing ambiance. It feels like walking into a luxurious temple—the walls are painting an inviting red hue, and there are stunning marble sculptures adorning the walls.

So what are you waiting for? Visit City Thai Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience!

City Thai is definitely the place to go if you want to experience authentic Thai cuisine. The dishes are all incredibly flavourful, and the staff are very knowledgeable about the food and the culture. If you’re ever in the area, definitely check it out!

11 November 2022

Months of Inventory – The Gist

During the February peak the market indicated a ballpark listing supply of less than a month.

In September listing inventory increased substantially: Overall just under 4 months supply, with a low of 2.7 months in St. Catharines to about 6.3 months in Fort Erie, all others being in between. Selling within one week is virtually no longer there.

 

So What Are the Takeaways?

  • First and foremost, why are you selling? You need a good reason to sell. This can best be discovered through a needs analysis with your REALTOR®. Without a strong reason for selling, the list price can typically be reflective of wishful thinking.
  • Second, in a tight market pricing is critical. The list price has to have the ability to attract buyer attention. This means a well-prepared valuation by the agent and the seller’s flexibility and cooperation to price the listing aggressively.
  • Third, one needs to exercise patience and adjust the price if needed. A successful sale is a team effort between you and your REALTOR. Pricing is the first essential marketing step.