Tax time tips save money for busy families

(NC)— Most parents are continuously looking for ways to stretch their budget. Whether we're paying for expensive dance costumes, new skates, music classes, or extra tutoring help, there are ways to save money at tax time.

The key is saving your receipts when you sign your kids up for fitness, artistic, or developmental activities. At tax time, claim the children's arts credit (www.cra.gc.ca/artscredit) and the children's fitness credit (www.cra.gc.ca/fitness) on your income tax and benefit return. You can claim the fees you've paid for eligible activities up to $500 per child, per tax credit. This gives you a non-refundable credit of up to $75 per tax credit per child. Look into it—the money you save might be enough to buy your child a new swimsuit or cover the gas money to get to lessons or practices.

Buying or Selling in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario?  Know anyone who is?  I can help.  705.971.0918

Like A Hawke,
Susan


 Please check out my current listings and together we'll discover your real estate needs. If you know anyone buying or selling I'd love to help them! You can follow me on Twitter: @susanhawkesells Instagram: @susanhawke Pinterest: @SusanHawke Facebook Page: Susan Hawke Remax Sales Representative Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Canada

Housing Market Outlook 2014

Canadian homebuyers remain savvy, with a long-term mindset that bodes well for stability.   Yet, they also value progress, and we expect that to translate again in 2014.  Equity gains should continue to result in tangible leaps to larger homes or better neighbourhoods, as well as a growing wave of renovation and revitalization.  Stock market performance is also expected to bolster activity, as paper wealth is converted to material wealth.  Read more HERE.

Buying or Selling in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario?  Know anyone who is?  I can help.  705.971.0918

Like A Hawke,
Susan


 Please check out my current listings and together we'll discover your real estate needs. If you know anyone buying or selling I'd love to help them! You can follow me on Twitter: @susanhawkesells Instagram: @susanhawke Pinterest: @SusanHawke Facebook Page: Susan Hawke Remax Sales Representative Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Canada

2014 will be a good year to buy, Ontarians say

The New Year has brought a renewed sense of optimism for a majority of Ontarian investors who are planning to capitalize on favourable economic conditions during 2014.

Forget about the icy conditions sweeping across the province, the Ontario market is proving a very big hotspot for many opportunistic investors.

Two in three Ontarians are intending to buy a home in the next two years, thanks to ‘good’ economic conditions, according to a new survey by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). Many investors are also looking to cash in on these favourable market conditions, with six in ten planning to sell up by the end of 2015.

“Consumers seem to be echoing a similar sentiment for the 2014 real estate market. Prospective buyers and sellers in particular are also more likely to believe the overall economy is strong, which may be why they’re considering buying or selling their home in the next two years,” says Sean Simpson, vice president, Ipsos Public Affairs.

While the current low interest rate and positive consumer sentiment is fuelling this short-term optimism in real estate, around 50 per cent of those surveyed say they believe the market will continue to strengthen within the next ten years.

Like A Hawke, 

Susan 

 Please check out my current listings and together we'll discover your real estate needs. If you know anyone buying or selling I'd love to help them! You can follow me on Twitter: @susanhawkesells Instagram: @susanhawke Pinterest: @SusanHawke Facebook Page: Susan Hawke Remax Sales Representative Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Canada

Real Estate Terminology

When it comes to real estate, there is no shortage of terminology and plenty of room for confusion. From mortgage types and periods to title searches and conditions, there are countless variables to consider in every real estate transaction.

Ron Abraham, president of the Ontario Real Estate Association says that buyers and sellers needn't be overwhelmed by any of the terms, rather, they should focus on the big picture and let their realtor work through the details.

"For both buyers and sellers, the sheer volume of information and options can be a little overwhelming. However, it's important that both buyers and sellers focus on the larger picture. If you have a clear idea of your needs and go in with realistic expectations, the whole process will be very rewarding."

Here is a cheat sheet of a few common and (commonly misunderstood) real estate terms: 

Fixed-rate Mortgage: A set amount is paid each month. The interest payable is predetermined and fixed at the time of taking the loan, and holds for the entire term. Buyers are protected from any increase in prime lending rates in future.

Variable-rate Mortgage: An adjustable interest rate, which can be altered depending on the market situation. These loans may be beneficial if there is a sudden fall in lending rates, but higher interest rates mean greater monthly payments.

Amortization: The number of years it takes to repay the entire amount of the mortgage.

Title/Title Search: Title is the legal evidence of ownership in a property. A Title Search is a detailed examination of the ownership documents to ensure there are no liens or other encumbrances on the property, and no questions regarding the seller's ownership claim.

Conditions: Sometimes called a "Subject-to" Clause. A statement of a condition to be fulfilled before the contract will become firm and binding, must include a specific deadline for removal.

Multiple Listing Service (MLS): A current and comprehensive listing system for relaying property information. This service offers the widest exposure to properties listed for sale.

Realtors: Real estate professionals licensed by the Real Estate Council of Ontario who are members of the various Real Estate Boards and the Ontario and Canadian Real Estate Associations. 

Please talk to me about the best way to get equipped with the information you need to make a buying or selling decision that is right for you and your family. I look forward to providing you with professional service!

Like A Hawke,
Susan

Please check out my current listings and together we'll discover your real estate needs. If you know anyone buying or selling I'd love to help them!

You can follow me on Twitter: @susanhawkesells Instagram: @susanhawke Pinterest: @SusanHawke Facebook Page: Susan Hawke Remax Sales Representative

Source EMC OREA

Images via Desire to Inspire

RE/MAX vs The Industry

RE/MAX agents continue to be the most productive sales force in real estate with the highest average transaction sides of the national brands, as highlighted in the 2012 RE/MAX vs. The Industry report. Click HERE.