Christmas Blessings From All Of Us!

Merry Christmas to All! Thanks so much for a great year, many blessings to all of you during the Christmas season!

Hamilton Real Estate Update

Please don't hesitate to reach out for detailed stats that are specific to your neighbourhood, or even if you're just curious about what the house down the street sold for – it'd be great to hear from you!

Bank of Canada Rate Update

The Bank of Canada lowers its rate 50 basis points in second consecutive decision.

On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, the Bank of Canada reduced its target for the overnight lending rate from 3.75% to 3.25%.

The cut was widely expected by financial markets in the lead-up to the decision, marking the fifth rate reduction since the onset of the pandemic, bringing rates down 1.75% from where they stood in April 2024.

The Canadian economy grew by 1% in the third quarter and is expected to come in weaker than projected according to the Bank of Canada.

The Bank made note of a pickup in housing activity, noting that lower interest rates are likely boosting the market.

The Bank also noted the employment market remains soft as the unemployment rate rose again in November.

While the Bank observed that a number of federal and provincial policy measures will be coming into effect in the near term, they will be looking through any temporary effects and focusing on underlying trends to guide their policy decisions.

The Bank stated the possibility of new tariffs on Canadian exports to the United States under the incoming administration has added uncertainty to its economic outlook.

With inflation currently trending around 2% and expected to remain close to that target over the next two years, and the economy still underperforming, the Bank notes it will evaluate the need for further reductions at each successive meeting.

The Bank of Canada will make its next scheduled interest rate announcement and publish its full outlook for the economy and inflation in its next Monetary Policy Report on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

Mastering the Mortgage Maze

A little proactive planning can help you save thousands on your mortgage!

If you're planning to buy a home in the near future, you’ve likely been following the ups and downs of the ever-changing mortgage market.

Arranging a mortgage is a huge financial decision, so it’s important to be organized and do plenty of research before you sign on the dotted line. Here are a few points to consider:

Get With the Program
Homebuyer programs can help open doors to homeownership but they usually require proactive planning, so it’s best to seek professional advice early on.

Strength In Numbers
A detailed budget will provide confidence and peace of mind, so carefully examine your finances to determine what you can comfortably afford.

Seal of Approval
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage strengthens your negotiating position and allows you to act quickly and confidently so that you won’t be left with regrets.

Lock It Down
Most banks can lock in interest rates to safeguard you against potential increases, giving you peace of mind while you’re out searching for your dream home!

Rate Debate
The interest rate is important but there are other factors to consider such as the type of mortgage (fixed/variable or open/closed) as well as the term of the loan.

Mortgage Makeover
Current homeowners can also take advantage of mortgage refinancing options as even a slight adjustment to your terms can amount to huge savings!

Navigating the complex mortgage maze can be overwhelming, especially with all of the changes over the last few years.

However, with a little proactive planning, you can save thousands of dollars in interest charges and significantly reduce the time it takes to pay off your mortgage.

If you ever have any questions about arranging or renewing your mortgage, or anything else that’s related to real estate, please don’t hesitate to reach out – it'd be great to hear from you!

Pet Proofing Your Christmas Tree

Make it a pawsitively perfect Christmas for you and your furry friends!

Cats and dogs are naturally curious, especially during Christmas when a big tree filled with shiny, dangling ornaments becomes the center of attention!

Here are a few tips that will help keep your pets, and your tree, safe and sound this holiday season:

Safe & Secure
Ensure your tree is fully secured by placing it into a sturdy, solid base and anchoring it to the wall.

Cord Control
Keep all electrical cords out of reach or covered up so that your pets aren’t tempted to chew on them.

Water Watch
Tree water can contain harmful fertilizers and bacteria, so make sure your pets aren’t able to get to it.

Higher Ground
Hang fragile ornaments higher up on the tree and avoid tinsel and edible decorations such as candy canes.

Poisonous Plants
Poinsettias, holly and mistletoe can be harmful to pets, so make sure to keep them well out of reach.

Decorating for Christmas is always a joy, but if you have furry little friends running around the house, it's important to take a few precautions to help protect them.

Here’s wishing you and your family an amazing Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

88 Gatestone Dr. in Stoney Creek Mountain

Welcome to 88 Gatestone Drive, a Spacious 3-Bedroom, 3-Bath Family Home in Stoney Creek. With Approximately 2400 Square Feet of Living Space, this Home Provides Ample Room for a Growing Family. Situated in a Highly Desirable Neighbourhood, it Offers Close Proximity to Schools, Parks, Shopping, and Easy Access to Major Highways for Convenient Commuting. The Backyard Boasts a Beautiful In-Ground Pool and a Cozy Seating Area, Perfect for Summer Relaxation and Entertaining. This Home Combines Space, Comfort, and Location in One Great Location.

For Lease-Commercial / 273 Queenston Rd in Hamilton

This East Hamilton Commercial Unit is Perfectly Suited for Professional or Institutional Office Space that's Available Immediately. High Traffic Visibility & Close Proximity to Hamilton Downtown, Restaurants, Public Transit, Schools, Redhill Expressway and QEW. 

No Place Like Home!!

There really is no place like home, especially this time of year, but if you’re looking for a new place to hang your stockings, please give us a jingle! 🎄🔔

P.S. Please let us know if you'd ever like a hand finding your dream home or even if you're just curious about what the house down the street sold for. We are always happy to help