Ordinary Joe, Extraordinary Service: Real Estate in Georgian Triangle

THE DIRT PIG HAS SPOKEN

2012-02-06T12:08:00.000-08:00

Well the Dirt Pig has spoken,

Wairton Willie says we are having an early spring. Well I say that you have to have winter in order to have spring and we have not had winter yet. As you can probably tell by the tone of my voice ( if you were here) my family and I love winter.

So, now that spring is on the way and the melt waters and spring rains are going to start flowing through your basement weepers, you will want to be prepared. First you should make sure that your sump pump drain lines are not frozen or clogged, including the end where the water makes its exit. If they are clogged or frozen you will likely burn out your sump pump and then proceed to have water flowing through your basement like an indoor pool.

Then you should make sure that your sump pump is in good working order. As a good rule for any home owners with a crawl space or basement, it is a great idea to have a new sump pump on backup. Having two pumps is a great idea. Just in case we have an extra soggy wet spring. Just ask anyone that has had a pump die on them when the water levels are bursting over the top of the rim. Also make sure the new one works, take it out of the box and test it.

Another thing to keep in mind is to put a check valve on the out take pipe. This will help the water from being sucked back into the sump basin. If you need help with this just give me a call.

It may also be in your interest to put an alarm on the system. Especially if you do not go into your basement or crawl space very often. This will alert you as to when the level of water is too high and is at risk of coming over the top and flooding your basement or crawlspace.

If you really want to take precaution, you could install a back up system. Then when the hydro goes out the sump pump will continue to work. Whether it is a pressure system hooked up to town water, a battery backup or a manual or automatic generator. Otherwise it could be the old fashioned backup system, a bucket and a mop.

I know that some of you good folks say that you have never had water in your sump pump basin, and that is great. However, I know of a number of homes that the owner said they never had water in their sump holes, EVER. Until that one wet quick spring thaw. Now they wish they had. EVERY HOME that has a crawl space or basement should have a sump basin and a sump pump. This just makes sense, because it is a hole in the ground and water always takes the easiest route. It is part of the Ontario Building Code now. If you have any questions about this or anything to do with buildings, just give me a call.

Also, just so you remember, I am in the business of selling real estate and I would like your business. So if you want to sell or buy a home, please call asap, so I can get started helping you achieved your real estate goals. It is going to be a great spring in Real estate for all of us. I also would like your referrals, so if you know anyone else that is interested in moving to upsize, downsize or any size, I would give them the same great service that I would give you.

Thankyou very much for stopping by,
I hope that this was helpful
Have a great day!

Joseph Talbot, ABR®, ASA, SRES®, AGA, Sales Representative

RE/MAX Clearview Inc., Brokerage, Independently Owned & Operated

202 Montreal St., Stayner, ON L0M 1S0

Office: 705-428-4500 Direct Line/Text: 705-733-5821

http://www.clearviewlistings.com jtalbot@remax.net

"Ordinary Joe, Extraordinary Service"

Proud supporter of Children's Miracle Network (Sick Kids)

FOR YOUR SAFETY, WHAT YOU DON'T SEE OR SMELL

2012-01-30T16:26:00.000-08:00

FOR YOUR SAFETY, WHAT YOU DON'T SEE OR SMELL CAN KILL YOU!!!

This is what can kill you. It is so imparative that you have a smoke alarm and a Carbon Monoxide detector.
Today I speak with confidence and experience that this is REALLY IMPORTANT. Not just if you have a gas furnace, stove, dryer or any kind of fuel burning source of heat. You live inside you should have one, and I think most of us do!!!

Today I had a distress call from one of my client's tenants. ( I am a property manager and real estate agent) They own a home and rent out the apartments. The owners do not live in the area. So I am here to help whenever they need me. The home has an apartment in the basement and the rest of the house is rented out separately. The Tenant in the basement called me at 9 am today to say the alarm was going off in the house and she was still sleeping. Needless to say, I told the tenant I would be right over. I get there and the door to the garage was open and the house all closed up. I go talk to the tenant in the basement. The tenant said the alarm had been going for about 30 minutes. I knew right away that it was not the basement apartment. ( instinct) It is an emergency, so I can enter the other apartment. The main floor tenant was not home. I enter the home and the smell just about knocked me over. The air was definitely not right. CO, you can not smell though. All the lights were on and the furnace was off, but the house was really hot. A little dog was very busy barking at me and the cat just looks at me. Good thing. This meant they were still alive. I first check the whole house to make sure no one was sleeping or unconscience. No one was. I check the furnace and the hot water heater. I touch nothing ( be sure not to, not even a light switch, in case of leaking gas, then an explosion could happen). I did turn off the detector. It comes back on in a few minutes. There is no smoke so we call Enbridge. They arrive about an hour later. The technician opens the door, takes a reading and say STAY out of the house. We leave the doors open to air out the house. He is getting a really high ready of CO. He is not sure where the CO is coming from. To make a long story a little shorter, after about two hours of airing out the house and taking more readings, the level final gets down to zero. Now it is safe to go in the home and stay. It is a wonder how the little dog or the cat even lived through this. The levels where so high it would have killed a human. It is a good thing that the tenant in the other apartment called me. We likely saved the animals lives. The tenant in the basement, in this case was not in danger, because the apartment was a legal conforming apartment to todays building code and completely sealed up apart from the rest of the house. After all inspections by the gas technician and my heating contractor they found nothing wrong with the gas lines, furnace, or gas water heater in the house. This is puzzling you may say. However after speaking with the main floor tenant, I learn that they had a car running in the attached garage. As soon as they opened the door into the house, the wind sucked the CO right into the house, like a vacuum and set off the alarms. It filled the entire house including all the duct work.
The moral of this story is two fold.
1. NEVER run your car in your attached garage, and
2. ALWAYS make sure your smoke and CO alarms are working. Check them at least every six months or more often, is better.

I have one on every floor of my home, plus one in front of all the bedrooms. Plus I have a two fire extinguisher, for different types of fires.

Praise God for the basement tenant calling me today, good thinking.

Thanks for reading this and have a great day!

Also be sure to call me for all your real estate, rentals and property management needs. I am always glad to help out, when I can.
705-733-5821
Joseph Talbot

Carbon monoxide
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search

Carbon monoxide (CO), also called carbonous oxide, is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly lighter than air. It can be toxic to humans and animals when encountered in higher concentrations, although it is also produced in normal animal metabolism in low quantities, and is thought to have some normal biological functions. In the atmosphere it is however short lived and spatially variable, since it combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and ozone.

Tub Spout Video

2012-01-24T04:27:00.000-08:00

Last week, I described how to fix a tub spout that isn't cooperating. Now you can see exactly how to do it.
Fix a Stubborn Tub Spout (Video)

Helpful Tip of the Week

2012-01-13T10:27:00.001-08:00

TIP OF THE WEEK, MAINTAINTANCE TIP

In 2012 I am going to try and give you a tip of the week. You might see Home Maintenance, Building & Design, or Renovation/Retrofit topics. Please let me know if any of this is of any interest to you or helpful. Be sure to suggest a topic if you have a need. I would like to help as many people this year as possible.

Your tip:

Have you ever had a tub spout/ diverter that has become stubborn and was hard to pull up to divert the water to the shower head. Well here is an easy way to fix it. Take off the tub spout turn it upside down and spray the whole inside with Olive Oil... Yes it works. I have done it with my own at home. Let it sit for a minute and then reinstall it. If you are not sure of how to remove your tub spout give me a call I would be happy to walk you through it or show you.

Be sure to stop back here often, I will have other tips weekly.

Also please remember if you are thinking of selling or buying give me a call or email

So no matter where you are, whether it is in Creemore, Collingwood, Stayner, Wasaga Beach, Clearview, Grey Highland, Lake Eugenia, Newlowell, or town of Blue Mountain or anywhere in between. This is my area that I work and know well.
If you are from out of town and want to sell or buy, I can referr you to a great REALTOR in you area. I have colleagues all over the country to help you.

Thanks for stopping by to read this, I hope that this is useful to you.

Have a terrific day!

2012-01-13T08:34:00.000-08:00

A YEAR IN REVIEW

From the Mls stats of the

Georgian Triangle Real Estate Board

So the stats for the year of 2011 are in. The sale price of the average home is up aproxiamately 3% over 2010. Aproxiamately 35% of homes listed for sale, are selling. That has remained that same from 2010. There are a number of factors to keep in mind when using these stats and other stats. Average price is based on all price ranges. The higher priced homes bring up the average. As does the cheaper homes bring down the average. That is where my expertise comes into play. Helping you determine the value of your home. Based on comparables, conditions, location and so much more. Not just average sale price. As far as what the year 2012 has in store for the real estate market, it is all spectulation. We know right now the interest rates are expected to remain low, for now. This makes it a good time to buy in that regards. There are many Micro markets, throughout the province. Some are very strong and others are not as robust. So when you read in the newspaper or online about what the future will hold or what is happening in Real estate now, keep in mind it is a good idea to consult a professional REALTOR. Just like to would for anything else that involves large sums of money or your future.

If you have any questions about these stats or would like the full report, by all means give me a call, glad to help. If you are interested in buying or selling a home or know someone who is, I would like to the opportunity to help you determine when the best time is to get started. I can also help you determine what may be the best thing for you, when it comes to selling. For some folks it may be better to renovate or retrofit their existing home, to accommodate changing life style or mobility. I want you to get the Extraordinary service you deserve.

Be sure to check out WWW.CLEARVIEWLISTINGS.COM and http://jtalbotrealestate.blogspot.com/ There are some informative articles there that may be able to help you with real estate or building. If you would like to information or an article on a certain topic or something to do with a building problem you have, let me know I would be happy to assist you.

Thanks for taking time out of your busy day to read this.

Have a great day!

Joseph Talbot, ABR®, ASA, SRES®, AGA, Sales Representative

RE/MAX Clearview Inc., Brokerage, Independently Owned & Operated

202 Montreal St., Stayner, ON L0M 1S0

Office: 705-428-4500 Direct Line/Text: 705-733-5821

http://www.clearviewlistings.com jtalbot@remax.net

http://jtalbotrealestate.blogspot.com/

"Ordinary Joe, Extraordinary Service

If you need a builder, designer, architect, heating contractor, electrician, plumber or any other contractor give me a call first and I will help you out!

SOLAR VENTING

2012-01-07T08:56:00.000-08:00

Helping you save money!!!

Solar power roof venting is a great way to reduce the amount of unwanted heat and moisture in your attic. This is done with free energy. There is a small fan that extracts the heat and moisture and puts it outside.

This will also extend the life expectancy of your roofing material.

This type of venting will also help reduce the amount of ice damming on your roof due to heat loss.

It will also increase the amount of air movement which help dry out any potential mold growth or wood rot from moisture.

In the summer it will help cool the attic tempurature and help reduce energy consumption on your air conditioner.

If you are interested in more information on Solar Venting for roofs. Give me a call or an email.

Also for no Pressure Real estate experience, call me today!
Or if you have any real estate or building questions, I would be glad to answer them.
Thankyou very much for reading this and have a great day!

Joseph Talbot,

Another Very Unique Building project,

2011-12-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

Another Very Unique Building project, designed by a local Architect, Jim Campbell of Rockside Design and built by Custom Builder, RTalbot carpentry, of Creemore.

This project was build just outside of the very picturesque village of Creemore in the hills on prime real estate land. The views from this home are worth a million.

This custom addition and renovation was very extensive and rewarding. The project ended up with approximately 6000 square feet of beautifully designed living space.

The roof structure you see in the video was about the most challenging of the entire project. It all went well. The roof was large squared timbers in an X pattern with 2" tongue and groove boards on top, plus insulation and ventilation. It was built on the ground and then craned up two storeys. There were four corner points of the walls that the roof sat on. It had to be axact on the ground so that it would sit perfectly in its final resting position. The very cold and windy winter days were just one of the elements that had to be contended with.

The entire project, not just the roof, took just over a year to complete. The home was designed and built to take advantage of the incredible views.

If you are interested in having a home designed and built in the Creemore hills, Mulmur, Collingwood, Grey County, or Wasaga Beach area, call us today. We will help you get the process started. If you need a Design/Architectural firm to get the design started and confirmed, now is a great time to have a free consultation. I will personally walk you through the process. With our many connections and extensive experience we can make sure the project gets done effectively.

So whether you are interested in buying vacant land to build that perfect vacation home, permenant residence or you would like to buy one ready to move into. Call me Joseph Talbot of Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage. I am local and know the area well and what to look for and avoid in a property in the Creemore, Stayner, Collingwood, Mulmur, Blue Mountains, Wasaga Beach and Grey County areas.
I look forward to meeting with you.
Have a terrific and successful New Years.
All the best to you and your family.

Call today 705-733-5821 ( text)
email jtalbot@remax.net
http://www.clearviewlistings.com/

WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER !!

2011-12-12T12:11:00.000-08:00

Seeing as we are in this together;

I figure, I might as well do the best that I can. So my goal here at Remax Clearview Inc.,  is to provide you with the very best service that I can. You likely would want someone with great experience and specialized education in Real Estate and building. Not all Agents are created with the same Expertise in the field.

Well that is why I am striving to achieve designations. Just so you know that when you work with me you are getting someone with the skills and knowledge, in the industry, that matter. I now have four designations to serve you better. I strive to increase our position in the Real Estate transaction.

It does not matter to me whether you are buying or selling a property worth more then a Million or one that is worth less than 100 k. It is all the same to me, when it comes to service. I take pride in who I am and what I do as a professional. So why should you care? Well, I'm glad you asked.

Following is a short description of what all these designation mean for you.

ASA = ACCREDITED SENIOR AGENT.

            Provided and taught by the The Real Estate Academy Inc.
            In short, what this means is that I have been trained to work professionally with
            the mature or senior demographic. Helping seniors or the boomers plus, can
            involve alot of extra care and knowledge. Items such as wills, estates,
            probate, downsizing, Universal Design and transitioning from one residence to another
            come into the grand picture. This all requires someone with special knowledge and
           experience and not all agents have it.

SRES = SENIOR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST

              Provided and taught by the National Association of REALTORS, this
              designation is similar to ASA. Designed to educate agents how to help
              deal with the Senior market and their families with professionalism and
              consideration. There are more items to deal with when working with the
              50 plus buyer or seller and their families.

AGA = ACCREDITED GREEN AGENT

            Provided by the National Association of Green Agents and Brokers, this
            emcompasses professional training on ENERGY EFFICIENCY of a home.
            How does this translate to you as a seller or buyer? It helps me determine
            ways to help you to save money in your hydro usage & gas comsumption, ways
            to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and
            ways to keep your home safe and healthy.

ABR = ACCREDITED BUYER REPRESENTATIVE.

             Provided by the National Association of REALTORS, this course helps
            to improve an agent's negotiating and positioning skills for their buyers,
            enabling the buyer to reap the benefits of the professional training and
             experience of the ABR, while treating the seller fairly and with respect.

How does this all help you? Well, information is worth alot when it come to dealing in real estate. Having an agent that is well informed and comes with special designations is well worth the time spent on your behalf.

Remember not all agents are trained the same. Not all agents upgrade their knowledge with designations or skills that are relevant. I want to be on your side, helping you when you buy or sell a home.

From the first time we meet and we commit to a business relationship, we are in it together until we finish to deal. But that is still not the end, most of my clients choose to be a part of my Client Appreciation Program.

So whether you are buying or selling a home in the Stayner, Creemore, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Mulmur, Town of Blue Mountain or Grey Highlands areas, contact me as soon as possible.

I provide fast, competent service that helps you leverage your position in the Real Estate deal. You deserve great service.

Also if you are interested in near future in buying or selling a property, why not call me and become part of my Client appreciation program? Very valuable information is sent out on a regular basis, by mail or email. This is a free service. Be informed in advance!

Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy day to read this.

All the best and Merry Christmas and Happy New Years.
705-733-5821 by phone or text.
jtalbot@remax.net

THIS WAS WRITTEN BY JOSEPH TALBOT AS GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY

December in Paradise!

2011-12-03T20:06:00.001-08:00

Old Man Winter really isn't sure whether he wants to send us a green or white Christmas so we've really enjoyed multiple seasons this month. This area is beautiful in all seasons!

Wildlife can be found all year long too. Check out some winter photos taken in Clearview here.

More Fall Maintenance

2011-11-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

In this video, I'll show you why it's important to change your furnace filter regularly and show you how easy it is! Click here to view "Changing Your Furnace Filter".

Speaking of Healthy Homes . . .

2011-10-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

Over the next while, I hope to post some videos on home maintenance or repair. If you'd like to see your question answered, give me a shout or send me an email. Check out today's video on Duct Cleaning.

Office: 705-428-4500
Direct/Text: 705-733-5821
Email: jtalbot@remax.net

Cleaning Your Duct Work

YOU AND YOUR HOME'S HEALTH

2011-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

Dear fellow Real estate owners and potential owners

When you own a home, we all know that it is an investment and we all want to protect our investment.

So a little maintenance is a great idea and well worth the time and can save you $1000’s in the long run. Just like a vehicle when it needs a repair we usually take care of it right away so that it will last us longer or be worth more if we go to sell it.

So I would like to help you protect what you work SO hard for.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind, for this fall ( before the snow flies) ( picture the snow flies)

- Are your plumbing vent stacks higher than potential snow depth on your roof, they must be able to breathe

- Get on your roof ( or hire someone) to check for potential leaks, or ice damming

- Be sure to maintain a humidity level around 50%, helps avoid dry skin and nose bleeds

- Check for heat loss around windows and doors. ( ask me how, it is simple, it can save you $)

- Check for heat loss around outlets, on exterior walls as well as interior walls.

- Remove window air conditioners, they can be a big heat loss.

- Check attic hatchs and light fixtures for heat loss.

- Check for deteriorated caulking, remove and re-caulk, keeps out cold air, moisture, bugs

- Bugs and rodents/pests look for warm places for the winter, they can cause a lot of damage.

- Turn off outside taps and drain, wrap all water pipes ( ask me why)

- Check for moisture gathering and mold in your bathroom, you should have an exhaust fan.

- For older windows consider shrink wrap or heavy curtains to keep heat in, be sure to open during daylight

- Look for condensation on windows and walls, fix the issue or it will frost up on Cold nights,

- Stake out things that may get buried in snow, this way snowblower won’t catch them

- Cut the grass one more time, it’s easier to rake off leaves and gravel in the spring, you’ll thank me

- Very important, be sure that your CO2 and smoke detector are working well.

- Remember to let the sun in during the winter to warm the house and be sure to close the drapes at night to keep the cold out, however , it is a must to open drapes in the daytime, ask me why? This is just the begining, please feel free to call me and I would be glad to help you better understand these and more items.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE A COMPLIMENTARY ANNUAL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST, CALL OR EMAIL TODAY. IF YOU DO NOT OWN A HOUSE PASS IT ON TO SOME ONE THAT DOES AND TELL THEM I SENT IT. MAINTENANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE OVERALL HEALTH OF YOU AND YOUR HOME. CALL ME IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE DETAILS. IT'S FREE.

If you have any questions OR would like a HOME VISIT, please feel free to call me and I can explain in more detail and how this will affect your future home value. As well if you have any Real estate questions please give me a call today and I would be very happy to come and see you and give you some very helpful tips in maintenance to increase your home value. Check out my blog and website for more great information. As well when you or someone you know would like to buy or sell, call me today, and I will give them the great service they deserve.

Thankyou for taking the time to read this,

Joseph Talbot

705-733-5821 direct line/text

jtalbot@remax.net

Have a terrific day!!

REMEMBER, A HEALTHY HOME MAKES FOR A HEALTHIER YOU

What’s the Deal Here?

2011-09-28T18:04:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of reducing the energy your home uses? Have you ever looked at the cost associated with energy-related products and services? Do you even care?

Well, as a realtor, an investor, a builder and a home-owner, I do care, but there are many factors to consider. The overwhelming issue that tends to dictate whether or not I will invest, is usually the project’s cost and return on investment.

For instance, a while ago I spent the time and aggravation to purchase and install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) throughout my whole house. I bought them from Canadian Tire and Home Depot , rather than the dollar store, so the cost was significant. Highly recommended for energy efficiency and long life span, they were supposed to outlast regular bulbs by many, many hours.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for me. Most of them blew within a few months and boy do they stink when they blow up. One Sunday, just before we headed out for Church , I noticed a blown CFL in my kitchen light fixture. I quickly grabbed a chair and jumped up and to replace it. When I tried to turn the bulb, the thinner glass actually broke in my hands and cut me. (I still have all my fingers, just a little less blood.)

Then I start to read the warning labels on these CFL’s . . . TOXIC!! Pregnant or nursing mothers and children should be evacuated from the room. Needless to say, with small children in my home, I have not bought another one since and never will.

Now, how about the cost of these things?? I will never get my money out of them! Not sure what the big hype was all about, but I figure it’s all a scam. Next time I go and try and be energy conscious, I will be cautious enough to research and ask around more.

I have done many other things to help the environment and save on energy bills, but we will get into that next time.

Have you thought about reducing energy use in your home? How have you been able to do it in a cost effective way? Feel free to comment here.

Image Credit: Retreived from http://www.pollsb.com/photos_handler/o/44370-switch_energy_saving_light_bulbs.jpg, October 4, 2011.

New Listing: 233 Cherry Street, Stayner

2011-09-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Century Home. The lot is huge and the 2 story barn would be a great workshop or garage. For more information or to view the inside of the home, book an appointment with Joseph today.

Please ignore the cat's input throughout the video. Not sure he wants us to sell the house. :)

Long Weekend Cottage Country Traffic Got You at a Stand-Still?

2011-08-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Why not live here full time?

Real Estate in Georgian Bay area has so much to offer. With new properties being built all the time, and gorgeous older homes available too, we can find the home that's right for you. Whether you ski or golf at Blue Mountain, hike the Bruce Trail or swim at Wasaga Beach, living in this area gives you the opportunity to play, anytime!

So many companies are offering at least part-time solutions to the regular commute, such as part-time work weeks or telecommuting and many Torontonians are taking advantage, finding solitude in nature and unity in our small communities.

If you're not ready for full-time living, cottages, weekend homes and investment properties abound. Come and visit Stayner, Creemore, Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and the surrounding areas to explore your options. You won't be disappointed.

Stayner Home Renewed, Upstairs Down.

2011-08-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

We recently turned this older, run-down home into a two-unit, income producing property. Do you need ideas for investment properties? With 25+ years combined, in building and real estate, I can provide some insight. If you have a property in mind, let's talk.

Basement apartment finally finito!

View more presentations from Joseph Talbot

make your home COOL

2011-04-11T13:45:00.000-07:00

Well get ready for it. Here it comes. The humidity, and the heat.
After the past few days, this could be an idication that we are headed into a hot humid spring and summer. Regardless, of whether we are or not, we should be ready for the heat and humidity. What are you going to do to reduce your heat and humidity in your home. One very important thing you should know is that you do not want to have humidity level to exceed 60 %. Then you may start developing mold in your basement. Your will start to see and feel it on paper products. Such as books,photos and posters, just to name a few. Then your clothes and furniture will feel moist. Then you will see it on the wall near the floor where the air is the heaviest and contains the most water content. Also remember that your concrete basement floor is always colder then the warm moist air around it. Alway remember that cold air is heavy and warm air is light. That  is why your second floor or attic is always hotter than your basement. Also remember that when warm air meets cold air it will turn to condensation. That is why your cold water supply lines and toilet will sweat on the hot humid days. Also if you have a tile floor in the basement it could sweat and create water on the surface, be careful it could be slippery. As well, remember that if you do not remove that moisture out of your basement OR crawlspace that you get mold. Mold is there before you even see it. It is a health hazard as well. People can develope allergies or get sick from it.

So you say one of two things. Big deal or lets deal with it and lets control it.

Here are just a few things you can do to improve your living and building health of your home.

1. Get the air moving in your basement or crawl space, it help dry it out. Buy a couple of portable fans
     and put one at each end of the basement. Keeping them on low will work fine, unless really humid.
2. If it is really cool or moist in your basement or crawlspace turn the heat on a little bit to equalize the
     tempurature within the house.
3. Turn on the furnace fans and draw some of the cold air out of the basement to the upstairs. This will
     also prolongs using the more expensive air conditioning.
4. Install a humidex, costs about $500, and it acts just like a dehumidifier, but costs less to operate and
     you do not have to empty the holding container.
5. Buy an energy star rated dehumidifier and hook it up to a floor drain.
6. It is also a good idea to open a window little bit to allow for fresh air.
7. If you have to turn on the air conditioner, this is likely the most expensive way to cool your home, but
     it works. It will also remove a lot of the moisture out of the air.

Some other small things to consider.

1. Make sure your attic/roof has adequate ventilation.
2. If you are going to reshingle your roof, do not use black or dark shingles, because they absorb heat.
3. Plant trees and plants that may block the hot summer sun. If you go under a tree in the summer it
     always feels cooler.
4. Limit your use of incandescent lighting, because most of the energy used is wasted in heat. Be careful
     though when using CFL bulbs because when they break they are toxic.
5. Shade your air conditioner to keep the hot sun off it.
6. Close your windows and window covers during the day.
7. Open your blinds and windows during the cool of the evening. Try to get a cross breeze going.
8. Place a fan near the window, not in the window. Watch for rain, because the fan may draw the rain
     into the house.
9. Keep extra water and drinks in the basement before putting in the fridge. If you put them in warm or
     hot it takes much longer to cool down, and you will NEED them.

These are just a few things to do that will help you stay cool. When you are ready to sells your home or buy one bring me a long and I will give you some great tips as to how to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. I would love the opportunity to help you or your referrals out.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.

Joseph Talbot, ASA, SRES, AGA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage.
705-733-5821
Check out my website for other great information.
http://www.josephtalbot.ca/

New Mortgage Rules Coming on March 18th

2011-03-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Wondering how the new mortgage rules are going to affect you? Here's some info from the Ontario Securities Commission.

March 2, 2011

Money 2.0

New Mortgage Rules – What Do They Mean?

Visit GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca

Related Resources

Should I buy a home now, or wait and save more money?

How do I save for a down payment?

What do I need to know before I start looking for a home?

Is it better to buy or rent?

There has been an ongoing conversation about good and bad debt in the news lately – is there a difference and how does it relate to Canadians’ personal situations? The mortgage meltdown in the U.S. and the all-time high consumer debt levels in Canada have also raised an alarm.

The Canadian government is now weighing in on the issue. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty recently made an announcement on new mortgage rules that serve the dual purpose of protecting the overall economy as well as nudging Canadians back towards lower personal debt levels.

What happened to the days of mortgage-burning parties? Not so long ago, it used to be a big point of pride to finally own one’s home. And by “own”, it was meant that not a penny was owed, unlike today when “owning” seems to mean living in a house with a mortgage, no matter how large that mortgage may be.

Mortgage Rule Changes

The Government of Canada’s mortgage changes impact both new and current homeowners. The three rules of the program are as follows:

Starting March 18, 2011:

The maximum amortization period will be reduced to 30 years from 35 years.
The maximum amount Canadians can borrow in refinancing their mortgage will be lowered from 90% to 85% of the value of their home.

Starting April 18, 2011:

Ottawa will withdraw government insurance backing on lines of credit secured by homes.

So what do these changes actually mean for homeowners and first-time homeowners?

First-Time Homeowners

First-timers will need to either buy a home with more money down, or one worth less than they could previously afford. The difference between a 30- and 35-year amortization on a $200,000 home can vary depending on the interest rate; nonetheless, the average extra cost for a homeowner is expected to be about $100 more per month. So they must either save more up front, increase monthly payments, or both. The Government of Canada is trying to ensure that more of these buyers own their homes sooner, lowering risk and the amount of debt they are carrying.

Refinancing Homeowners

Homeowners who are looking to refinance their homes, consolidate debt or make home renovations will not be able to access as much money as they did before. This is because, under the new rules, they will only be allowed to refinance up to 85% of the value of their home – down from the previous limit of 90%. This means that for a home valued at $200,000, refinancing it at 85% will allow the homeowner to access up to $170,000, while previously they would have accessed up to $180,000.

All Homeowners

The Government of Canada’s withdrawal of insurance on home equity lines of credit (HELOC) will likely mean an increase in interest rates at the banks. As the Government is no longer backing these loans, banks will need to bear more risk and it is anticipated that they will pass this on to homeowners in the form of higher interest rates.

As our government has taken a look at our finances and taken measures to restrain our borrowing, we too should be taking action. Assess your debt – good or bad – and make a plan to pay it off. The best debt, after all, is no debt – there can be no argument about that.

Making $$$ From Your Home

2011-03-09T09:50:00.000-08:00

Need some extra cash to fund a special project or pay down some debt? Barrie Lebow, president and founder of Senior Housing Council, The Real Estate Academy Inc., has some great ideas for using your home to make money. His focus is on meeting Real Estate needs in the senior market and I will post more of his articles in the future.

Making money from your home

Make $$$ from your home - It’s not just about selling lemonade

By Barry Lebow (or Frances O’Flynn)
If you’re reading this column, chances are it’s been awhile since you sold lemonade from a stand in front of your house. But entrepreneurial spirit never dies. So here are some grown-up ideas for making money from your home.

Empty nesters, for example, could rent a room or basement suite to students. Even better, by carefully screening potential applicants you could find a student who’s sufficiently trustworthy to leave in charge of the house while you’re away. Or he or she might volunteer to help with household chores in return for a reduced rent.

And what about that garage you don’t use? You could always rent it as a parking spot, but you could also clean it out and rent it to someone who desperately needs storage space or a place to work on a hobby such as restoring old cars. If you are considering renting out the garage or basement for storage, why not take it one step further and offer shipping supplies. Small home-based industries seldom have the space to store or pack their products for shipping.

Here’s a way to make money from Canada’s role as Hollywood North. Film companies comb local registers and scout neighbourhoods looking for just the right place to serve as a backdrop for their movie. You can register your home with the local film liaison office. One acquaintance made over $1,000 a day renting his upscale property to a U.S. film company. They put the house back exactly as they found it, and aside for the inconvenience of having to vacate the premises for the duration of the shoot, nothing was lost, broken or stolen. Added bonus: you’re may just catch a glimpse of your favourite star.

For those with a now empty in-law suite, why not consider renting out the kitchen to a catering company or other food prep organization? You also could rent a basement room as a photography darkroom or a soundproof garage to local musicians for practices.

Don’t overlook the garden. You can grow vegetables, flowers, even turf, on the back 40 and sell the results online or through local landscapers.

Then there are the home-based businesses: bed & breakfasts (particularly in demand in tourist areas); baby sitting services or daycare; pet boarding; esthetics; music lessons and tutoring; antiques (great if you have an old barn or large shed on your property)… the list could go on and on.

For entrepreneurs willing to take risks, there are opportunities in buying real estate as an investment. Many now-millionaires started life with one duplex, living on the top floor and renting the lower. With your expenses paid by the renter, you can buy a larger duplex or a triplex to rent out. The secret, says one wealthy entrepreneur, is to make sure there is money in your pocket after you’ve covered all your expenses. When you’re assessing an investment, determine whether the rent you can charge will pay not just for the mortgage but renovations and maintenance, property taxes and utilities, as well as a certain percentage set aside for potential vacancies and bad debt. Then make sure that still leaves with you a small profit.

Ask the seller for documentation (or rent rolls) which will tell you how much each unit is rented for. You can even ask for past rent history. Then check going rates online or in newspapers. Rents shouldn’t be too high (which discourages renters) or too low (‘there’s something wrong here’) for the area.

Finally, for empty nesters who are reluctant to sell the family home, why not rent it and downsize to a condo or smaller home? This has the advantage of maintaining the home in the family (perhaps the kids will want to buy it from you when they’re settled and more financially secure). It also has the disadvantage of making you a landlord. Depending on the tenant, the condition of the house, the area and a whole host of other factors, you may be taking on midnight phone calls, angry neighbours and potential damage to the building.

Other downsides of making money from your home: Government regulations affecting home-based industries may make it hard to set up a pet-boarding facility or catering kitchen. Parking for customers may be a problem for home businesses such as esthetics. Film companies, and particularly ad agencies who want to film commercials in your home, may not be scrupulous about returning the house to its original condition. Tenants could damage your property. Students could be noisy.

But then, even selling lemonade from a stand in front of your house years ago probably violated some health regulation. It didn’t stop you then. Will it now?

This information is brought to you by your Accredited Senior Agent, a specialist in the housing needs of older adults. Your ASA is an experienced real estate professional who has graduated from a special education program focusing on the needs of seniors. For information, please visit www.thesenioragent.com or contact, Barry Lebow, President and Founder, Senior Housing Council, The Real Estate Academy Inc., providers of the Accredited Senior Agent designation, 416-784-9806 ext. 107

May be a little late for Valentine's Day . . .

2011-02-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

. . . but here it is anyway. Came across this blog the other day and thought it was quite interesting and relevant, today, as the senior population continues to grow. Some big decisions ahead for families . . .
Through specialized coursework and experience, I have come to truly understand the diverse issues that may be facing seniors and their families. With compassion, sensitivity and a realistic approach, I would be glad to assist your family in this process. Feel free to contact me, 705-733-5821 or jtalbot@remax.net.

Written on February 14, 2011 – 7:39 am | by Audrey Miller My colleague blogged previously on collaborative law as an approach to consider in resolving estate disputes. I think this is a perfect topic for Valentine’s Day. Many, if not most couples, are initially in love. I think most families are started because of love yet what happens to the strength and love of a family over the years is questionable. We often see conflicts that result in litigation and feuding with a lot of money and time being spent. I don’t know what happens within families nor can I provide comment on how to avoid it. What I can suggest is a process that brings family members together in terms of planning and providing care for their older family member.

Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager to assess the individual and to provide an objective analysis of what the older individual needs, is an excellent starting place. An in home assessment will look at their: functioning, including physical, cognitive and emotional components as well as any caregiver related issues. The areas of need are identified with recommendations outlined with their best interests as the priority. This report serves as a blueprint for planning the care of an older individual. While families may continue to disagree at least there is a way to make sure the mom or dad’s needs have been appropriately documented with recommendations and resources identified.

Eleven Reasons to Hire a Professional Geriatric Care Manager:
1. We are professionals who have the knowledge, training, and experience to do what you are trying to do without it.
2. We can do in 2 hours what it would take you 2 weeks to do.
3. We know how to get around that “I’m saving for a rainy day” syndrome, when your folks are drowning in their problems.
4. We’re much cheaper than the cost of plane fare if you have to fly into town when your parents say “everything is fine” but you know it isn’t.
5. We can provide advice on which nursing/retirement residence is right for your parents.
6. We can make your parents hear what you have said over and over again, but they refuse to listen because to them, you are still a child.
7. We can tell your annoying sibling to keep quiet, but graciously.
8. We’ve helped families a lot worse than yours.
9. Your dad can’t push our buttons.
10. Next time you want to hang up on your mother, you can tell her to call us.
11. We’re available, so you don’t have to be.
( Adapted from “Inside GCM,” Winter, 2005, Phyllis Brostoff)
Happy Valentine’s Day. –Audrey Miller

Wouldn't we all like to Save Money???

2011-02-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

My wife came across this article in Canadian Living and I thought I'd share. We've got the hang of some of these tips but have a long way to go. Grocery prices are outrageous! The author says our grocery costs are second only to mortgage and rent but I'd be surprised if groceries cost less than rent in a lot of families. Would love to hear your shopping tips & tricks!

Here's the article:

Trim your grocery bill:

Save money on your food purchases with these easy tips.

Benjamin Franklin said, "A fat kitchen makes a lean will," and he was right. I was behind someone at the grocery store who was shopping with her son. They had two grocery carts jammed full of all kinds of prepared food, junk food, comfort food and a few of the necessary staples. While I'm usually not that interested in what people are buying, I was shocked when their food bill rang in at more than $450! It didn't look like they were preparing for a party, either. This seemed to be what they were buying on a regular basis.

Many people now spend more money every month on food than they do on their car! That makes buying groceries the second-highest monthly expense after paying your mortgage or rent (Emphasis added by Joe). Many people don't think to include food in their financial planning because it's a necessity and we need it to survive; however, this is one area where people lose control every week and overspend.

Saving just $20 a week on your grocery bill can save you more than $1,000 a year. Saving $60 a week could help you save more than $3,000 a year.

I first met Kimberly Clancy when we did a story on Canada AM about trying to save money on your grocery bill. Clancy runs her own website, www.frugalshopper.ca. The site is a wealth of frugal knowledge, where Canadians can go to find out about sales from coast to coast, free shopping advice, coupon tips and ideas on how to shave money off their grocery bill. I went shopping with Clancy and the two of us had the exact same shopping list. The money she saved was amazing.

Without using coupons, I spent $133.89. Using coupons, Clancy spent $23.45. That's a savings of $110.44.

Imagine saving $110 on your grocery bill! On this visit Clancy did use some freebie coupons she was saving up for our demonstration, but she says she routinely saves about 25 per cent or more on her grocery bill every week using coupons, flyers and watching for sales.

Clancy says, "I think many people spend way too much money on groceries, especially when you go to the premium grocery stores. These high-end chains will have beautiful layouts, fancy displays and better lighting, but most premium outlets also own a budget grocery chain that has prices that can be 30 per cent cheaper and the food comes from the same warehouse."

How to save; shopping dos and don'ts

One way to save on your grocery bill is to buy store or generic brands instead of national brands. They are usually much cheaper and just as good. (National brands have to hike their prices up to pay off those expensive TV commercials and magazine ads.) Beans that are canned for more expensive national brands are the same beans that go into the cans sold under the store's name brand. I'll never forget touring a bottled water factory and seeing water going into different bottles with different labels. It was the exact same water being bottled, but the prices ranged from $0.89 a bottle to $1.59 for the same H2O! Often, no-name camera film, batteries and blank CDs are also manufactured by the same companies that produce the more expensie national brand. It just makes sense to try the cheaper brand, and if it works or tastes fine then stick with it.

One of the best ways to save money on your grocery list is to make sure you know the prices of the products you use often. "You won't know what a good deal is if you don't know what the prices are. Just because it's on sale doesn't mean it's a bargain. When you use coupons and other promotional offers you'll get even more savings," says Clancy. The best sale items will be on the front and back of the flyer and when there is something on sale you use regularly, stock up!

Warehouse shopping and buying in bulk are also good ideas, but you can easily walk into a warehouse store with the best intentions to save money and walk out with only eight items that cost you $150, so care must be taken here as well.

Grocery shopping dos

• Do plan ahead

• Do use meal plans

• Do get organized

• Do avoid impulse shopping

Grocery shopping don'ts

• Don't shop on credit

• Don't buy name brands

• Don't buy junk food

• Don't buy food you're not sure you'll eat

• Don't shop when you're hungry

Admittedly, I'm not someone who would spend much time clipping coupons and many of us would find it hard to make the effort or find the energy to bother. While manufacturers issue about 2.6 billion coupons a year, only 97 million coupons are redeemed. Many people who do clip coupons are stay-at-home parents, retirees and students, but Clancy says everyone can benefit. "Everyone has to eat and anyone who wants to save money can. Food is something we have to buy anyway and you should try to find savings, especially if you are spending hundreds of dollars a week on groceries." With all her coupon clipping, Clancy says she spends only about $50 a week to feed her family. "If you cut back a little you can save a little, and if you cut back a lot you can really save a lot. It's that simple."

By Pat Foran

Published by Canadian Living.

Wiarton Willie Predicts An Early Spring

2011-02-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

No Shadow in the Midst of Today's Snow Storm

Dust off those paint brushes and start making your to-do lists.

Typically, the Real Estate market begins to improve in early spring. With all the snow we've had this year, people will be eager to get outside when the snow begins to settle.

If you're thinking of selling this spring, now is the time to start thinking of what you need to do to get your house ready. If you need any ideas to get you started, give me a call @ 705-733-5821.

So get in your last few ski and toboggan runs and get to work.

Ark Building in 2003

2010-12-14T07:54:00.000-08:00

I just came across this humorous anecdote I clipped from the Creemore Echo in 2003.

This is sooo relevant in the business of building today.

The earth was wicked and overpopulated. The Lord instructed Noah to rebuild the Ark and save two of every living thing, along with a few good humans. “Here’s the blueprint,” said the Lord. “You will need to hurry, for in six months I will start the unending rain for 40 days and 40 nights.” Right on schedule six months later the rains started coming down. But when the Lord checked in with Noah, he was weeping in his flooded yard, and there was no Ark. “Noah,” He roared; “Where’s the Ark?”

Forgive me, Lord,” begged Noah. “Things have changed. I needed a building permit. I’ve been arguing with the inspector about the need for a sprinkler system. My neighbours claim that I have violated the zoning laws by building the Ark in my yard and exceeding the height limit. We had to go to the Development Appeal Board for a decision. Then Transport Canada and the Department of Highways and Hydro wanted a bond posted for the future costs of moving power, trolley, and other overhead obstructions, to clear the passage for the Ark’s move to the sea. I argued the sea would be coming to us, but they would hear nothing of this! Getting wood was another problem. There’s a ban on cutting local trees in order to save the potted owl. I tried to convince the environmentalists that I needed the wood to save the owls, but no go!”

“I started gathering the animals, but then an animal rights group sued me. They insisted that I was confining wild animals against their will. As well, they argued the space was too restrictive and it was cruel and inhumane to put so many animals in so confined an area.”

“Environment Canada decided that I could not build the Ark without filing an environmental impact statement on your proposed flood. I’m still trying to resolve a complaint with the Human Rights Commission on how many minorities I’m supposed to hire for my building crew. Meanwhile, the trade unions want me to hire only union people with ark building experience. To make matters worse, Canada Customs and Revenue Agency seized all of my assets, claiming I’m trying to leave the country illegally as well as with endangered species.

So, forgive me, Lord, but it would take at least ten years to finish this Ark.” Suddenly, the skies cleared, and the sun began to shine. A rainbow stretched across the sky! Noah looked up in wonder. “You mean you’re not going to destroy the world, Lord?” he asked.

“No,” said the Lord. “Your government already has!”

Editor's note: This modern fable was recently shared with the Big Heart Seniors and sent on to the Echo by Edith and Bob Veale.

Author unknown.

check this out about boomers.

2010-11-12T07:49:00.001-08:00

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/real-estate/boomers-not-opting-for-condos-when-they-downsize/article1795229/

Check this out about boomers.

Joseph Talbot - Sales Rep- Remax Clearview INC. Brokerage - Ontario - Stayner - (705) 428-4500 411.ca

2010-11-12T07:45:00.000-08:00

Joseph Talbot - Sales Rep- Remax Clearview INC. Brokerage - Ontario - Stayner - (705) 428-4500 411.ca

We are always looking for new ways to help serve our clients. We are a team, together with you, so we all want to succeed. Joining 411.ca is just one more new way for buyers and sellers to find us and what we have to offer. The more we do together, the more chance we have of success. The real estate market is changing and it is getting harder to sell a property and harder to find just the right one. So we hope that you will take advantage of what we have to offer. We pride ourselves in client satisfaction. If you are not happy neither are we, and when you are happy you will referr us to your friends, family and co-workers. Why wouldn't you, if you think our service is great, you would definitely want everyone you know to get the same great service. When you are visiting our sites, be sure to check out all the great information. If you have any questions or comments, we would love to hear from you. We always strive to make our business better.
Thankyou for stopping here.
Have a terrific day!
Joseph Talbot, sales rep.
Accredited Senior Agent.
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

JUST LISTED: Lovely Family or Retirement Home in Creemore

2010-10-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

SOLD

This 3 bedroom home in the quaint village of Creemore has great potential for a young family, retirees or as a rental property! This double wide lot is 132' x 165' and has plenty of room for a pool or trampoline. Close to many ammenities. Thanks for taking a look.

Priced to sell, this could be your opportunity to get into the real estate market in this desireable community. Call or email today!

www.clearviewlistings.com
jtalbot@remax.net
705-428-4500 Office
705-733-5821 Direct Line

Should You Rent??

2010-10-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

Good question. Well one way to quickly determine what to do is to consider whether or not you have at least 5% down payment and closing costs for a house. If not, well, renting is a good option. It may beat living with mom and dad for the rest of your life! Even if you love them very much. Most financial institutions and private lenders will not lend 100% of the purchase price. You need to show a financial interest in the home, so that the lender feels confident that you are not just going to walk away if money gets a little tight. If you are not in a position to buy this way, there is the rent to own option. However there is still a down payment required and interest rates will be higher.

Some of the types of renters are:

1. Good folks without the 5%.
2. Retired folks that are not interested in owning any longer, with good reason. (We will talk about this later.)
3. Good folks with financial difficulty (This can happen to ANYONE.)
4. Seasonal renters, for ski seasons or summer holidays.
5. Young couples or families not sure about where life is taking them.
6. Relocations, (i.e. the military, new jobs, etc).
7. Renters who just don't want the responsibilities of owning.
8. Students.

These are just a few benefits of renting :

1. You do not have the liability of ownership.
2. You do not have to maintain the buildings or grounds.
3. You do not have the fix anything that wears out or breaks. (Unless, of course, you broke it.)
4. You do not have to cut the grass unless it is in your rental agreement.
5. You do not have to do the snow removal unless it is in your rental agreement.
6. If something happens to the building you do not have to deal with it.
7. If the building needs upgrading, it is not your expense.
8. You are not responsible for paying the taxes.
9. You are not responsible for paying the building insurance.
10. You do not have to come up with 5% down to live there.
11. You may only need the home for a short term and don't want to have the hassle of selling.
12. You may be retiring and only need it for a few years, before going into a retirement community.
13. You may not be able to find just the right house, instead of buying the wrong house, rent shortterm.

These are just a few reasons why renting may be the best option for you. Homes come up for rent on the market all the time as do folks looking for rentals. I get calls for both periodically. There are many ways to get the word out you are looking to rent a home. Call me any time and I can help you start the looking process. Whether you are looking in the Clearview, Creemore, Stayner, Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, Grey county, or Mulmur township, I can help you get the ball rolling. It can take some time to find the right rental. Start as early as you can, so you don't miss out on a good deal. These are just a few thoughts on renting.
Thanks again for reading this blog. I hope that you found something useful in its content. Please check back in a few days for more blogs.

Just Listed a Georgeous Property, on a Large Lot, in Stayner.

2010-10-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

You have got to see it to believe it. Absolutely incredible potential here for bed & breakfast, extended foster care, etc. Beautiful formal dining room with real wood fire place. A kitchen a chef dreams about. A gentleman's room with the perfect ambiance for pool, library or study. Massive great room with cathedral ceiling and lots of natural light. Perfect for entertaining special guests. Garden doors from the great room lead to a patio and heated inground pool and sauna & shower house. Don't miss out on this 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom home on huge, well-treed in-town lot. Way too much to list. See it before it's gone! Call Joseph Talbot, RE/MAX Clearview, Stayner, ON Office: 705-428-4500 Direct Line: 705-733-5821

View more photos of this beautiful Stayner Home.

TO RENT OR NOT TO RENT

2010-10-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

TO RENT OR NOT TO RENT, THAT IS THE QUESTION
Well there is a lot to think about when it comes to renting, selling or buying. They are all intwinded together. Today we are going to talk about the SELLING END OF THINGS. If you are a seller you may want to rent instead of selling. You may want to Keep it for future income. Or you may want to avoid capital gains at this time. Rentals are a good investment overall. However there are a few challenges that come with it.
First you need to make sure you are making the best decision for you and your family.
Then make sure you find the best tenant possible for your property.
Make sure that you look at the potentials renters credit history, this you need their written consent.
Check the past two landlord referrences, very important, unless they never rented before
Check at least two personal referrences, that are not related. ( if possible)
Check their employment, speak with their employer.
Make sure that their income can meet their living expenses or your will be paying them
Most important of all, trust your gut instinct.

Having the income each month is nice. If you have a mortgage on the property the tenant help you pay that. Also it is not a great idea leaving your property vacant. Unless of course you live in it. Keeping it and renting right now may be a good idea in today's economy. You MAY get more for the property in the future. Just take into consideration the cost to upkeep the property. Such as maintainance and repairs. Remember a happy tenant is usually a longer term tenant. Everytime a tenant moves out it will cost you money. Do your best to make the home as nice as possible, within your budget. It is a good idea to go into the home at least twice a year and check for repairs and maintainance, like leaky taps, clean out the eavestrough, check for mold in the basement. You may also have to do the grass cutting, yard work or snow removal, just depends on what is in your rental agreement. Be sure to keep open lines of communication with your tenant.
In my experience, and we have some rental properties, we feel it is a great investment. You must remember, whether you already own the property or you want to buy one as an investment, it is for the long term. In today's market it is a great time to buy. As for the selling end, it takes a little longer and prices are not as high. This will likely change in the future. Real estate cycles aways prove to increase over the year. When it dives it always comes back. It just takes time. However at least you have something that you can liquidate if you need to. However at least you have something that you can liquidate if you need to. This is just a few things to think of when you are considering to rent your home. If you need any help making this decision, or would like some more information or help renting, just give me a call or email.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope that it was helpful.
Have a great day!!
Until next time! Be sure to check back.
705-733-5821
jtalbot@remax.net

Here's a Driving Tour of Wasaga Beach

2010-10-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

Have a look at this drive through the Beach, from Superstore to the Main End. Near the end, you'll see a short clip of Kite Surfing. I'd sooo love to try that! Listen for my daughter pointing out some important tourist attractions.

Wasaga Beach is a great place to live, no matter what the season!

Check out this Tour. It is a Must!

2010-10-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

Well here we are. It is October already!! Wow! All the fall colours are here. We have been driving around videoing all the bits and pieces of our little piece of Heavenly real estate area. You will have to check it out. We have recorded some really neat places. Like the fishing Islands on Lake Huron, which are quickly becoming the non fishing, non islands. We were there and could just about walk to them. If the water was not soooo cold we would have. Someone drove their jeep right through the water, so it can not be that deep. We also were checking out the salmon jumping up and over the Sauble falls. WOW! Now that is cool. The power and determination these fish have is incredible. They must have a real keen built in GPS system. God designed them well. There is a lot of water running over the falls right now. We also checked out the Coran ruins at Spirit Rock, just outside of Wiarton. The ruins are really interesting . . . the size of the cut stone they used and how heavy the stone must have been. They also did not have the equipment that we have today to do all the heavy lifting. Also what was really interesting was the steel spiral stair case the led us down over the cliffs. We were about 150- 200 feet above the Bay at Wiarton. Look for the video on our website under current videos on the right side of this page. Would you like a really scenic drive that will take you about 2 to 3 hours round trip? Well, start in Collingwood head west on Hwy 26 towards Thornbury. Just past the mountain and Craigleith provincial park turn left on Grey road 40 towards Walters falls, continue on that until you come to Hwy 10. Then turn left and head south. Go into Markdale. At the lights turn left (the only stop lights).This goes east. Then turn right onto cty road 30 and follow to the stop sign, turn right, this is still 30, go to the next street and turn left, this is still 30. Go down the really big hill. Follow this to the stop sign at County road 13. Then turn right and go up the big long hill into Eugenia. Then turn left onto the 8th line on the edge of the village of Eugenia. This goes east. Travel until you come to the stop sign in Feversham. Go straight through. Keep going until you come to a T in the road, this is the 10 th line. turn right. Take this road until you come to the next T in the road and turn left this is county road 31. Then go for about 500 meters and turn right onto county road 91 and go east. Go down the big hill and this takes you into Duntroon and you can go straight to stayner or left to Collingwood.
I guarantee that you will not be disappointed with this trip. I promise you that it is one of the most beautiful drives in all of southern Ontario. There are many great things to stop at and take a look at along the way. Most important, do not forget your camera and or video camera. Your will really enjoy the fall colours and the beautiful hills. It is a VERY scenic drive. You will pass through Clearview township, town of BlueMountains, Artemesia, Osprey, and other townships all in Grey County and Simcoe county. Please let me know how well you made out with my directions and how much you enjoyed to the trip. Thanksgiving weekend is coming up and the colours will be at their peak. Enjoy and thanks for visiting my blog. Stop by and visit my website as well http://www.clearviewlistings.com/ Have a great day! Joseph Talbot, ASA, sales representative, Remax Clearview Inc. 705-733-5821 direct line if you get lost.

See the Potenial In Real Estate That May Not Seem Quite What You Are Looking For

2010-10-01T10:42:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, when you are in the market for real estate, viewing a property can be a little disappointing. You see the photos online and when you get there, it's not quite what you had hoped.

If you dig a little deeper though, you might be able to visualize something different.

That's what we did when we bought this investment property in Stayner, Ontario. It was pretty run down. It needed new doors, new windows, new siding, and we replaced just about everything else.

Now, the main floor is a large, finished, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment and the basement will begin soon. We'll keep you posted on the progress.

In the meantime, you can see Before, During and After photos at http://www.clearviewlistings.com/ and see view the finished video walkthrough of the Stayner Renovation Project below.

With my design qualifications and 20+ years in the building industry, I have an eye for detail and a knack for visualizing the potential in a property. Give me a call, at RE/MAX Clearview, Inc, and let me help you see your future home!

Joseph Talbot, Accredited Senior Agent, Green Agent
RE/MAX Clearview Inc. (705) 428-4500
Direct Line (705) 733-5821
www.clearviewlistings.com

SAVE THE HST!!!

2010-08-30T13:15:00.001-07:00

Keep more of YOUR money in YOUR pocket!!!

Wow! What a Deal!

SAVE THE HST*

*On the seller's brokerage portion of commission only, when you list your real estate through the services of Joseph Talbot, Sales Representative, in the months of September & October 2010.

Call me at Remax Clearview Inc., 705-428-4500 or on my direct line, 705-733-5821. Visit www.josephtalbot.ca or email jtalbot@remax.net.

"ORDINARY JOE, EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE"

Secrets to Creating an Age Friendly Home

2010-05-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

When people buy a home they intend to live in for the rest of their lives, they don't always consider if that home will suit them as they age. In fact, many people plan remodeling projects that won't help them at all when they get older, such as putting in a hot tub. Maybe that's something they can finally afford and have always wanted, but they don't take into consideration how useful - or not - something like that will be as they age. Here are a few things you should think about in creating an age friendly home. Keep in mind that everyone ages differently, and you may not know exactly what types of accommodations you'll need, but by planning ahead, you'll have some idea of what you may need.

The ideal home for seniors should include a no-step layout, including no steps up to at least one entrance of your house. If you have steps at every door of your home, be aware that you may need to add a ramp at some point in the future. This holds true even if you or your spouse isn't in a wheelchair; the fact is that negotiating steps becomes difficult for nearly everyone as they age. Doorways, both within the house as well as entrance doors, should be at least 32 inches wide to accommodate a wheelchair or walker, and doors should have lever handles instead of knobs for arthritic hands.

Your home should ideally have a full-sized bath and master bedroom on the first floor, as stairs may become difficult to navigate. Bathrooms should include toilets and counter tops that are at a comfortable height for seniors. Showers are ideal for seniors, since most falls occur getting in and out of the tub. You can get shower chairs with wide seats. If you already have a tub and choose not to remodel, add several grab bars and a bath bench to put across the tub so you don't have to stand up to reach necessary items. You should also add a grip mat in the bottom of the tub and a hand-held showerhead so you can avoid standing as much as possible. If you have room for it, you might also want to consider placing a sturdy chair near the tub to aid in mobility and dressing.

Bedrooms, particularly the first floor master bedroom, should have large closets with accessible storage and a bed that is low enough for seniors to easily climb into. Since older people need three times as much light as younger people do, you'll also want adequate lighting, not just in the bedroom, but also throughout the entire house. A good reading light will help, and you may want to consider a nightlight to make middle of the night trips to the bathroom safer. If the bedroom is connected to the bathroom, a sturdy chair near the bathroom door will be good if you need a little help getting to the bathroom.

Adequate lighting is particularly important in the kitchen because there are so many ways to get hurt in that room. You can add under-cabinet and can lights if you don't have enough florescent lighting. You'll also want to make sure cabinets are easily accessible, and add roll out shelves and more shallow shelves if necessary. Stoves should have large dials for easy viewing, and ovens should have pull out racks. Other senior kitchen necessities include a stool for resting, a lever style faucet on the sink, a garbage disposal and trash compactor, and a u-shaped galley kitchen layout so food does not have to be carried.

Other changes that will help you age in your home:

Low pile carpet for easy mobility
Low shine floors that minimize glare
Pressure mats instead of motion detectors that interfere with hearing aids
Buzzers instead of high frequency alarms and doorbells
Adequate heating system so space heaters aren't needed
Touch lamps instead of ones with knobs
Out of the way extension cords
No throw rugs
Furniture with firm, high seats
Chairs with arms and without coasters so they don't slide
Light colored floors and bright walls, with a contrast between the two

Outside of the home, patios are better for seniors than are decks, because decks require more maintenance and tend to be slick when wet. There may come a time where maintaining an elaborately landscaped yard is too much for you. As you get older, you may want to consider either simplifying your yard so you have less to do in it, or hiring someone to take over yard care duties. Following these tips can make aging in your home much easier.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Buyer’s Title Insurance: Do You Need It?

2010-05-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

When you purchase a home, the title of it must be researched to make sure the seller has the right to sell the house; that no one else has a claim on the house, for example. The title examiner will look closely at all available public records of the house, including past deeds, wills, and trusts to make sure the house is free and clear to be sold. If the title is clear, you can buy the house. If not, any legal problems need to be cleared up.
Title insurance protects you and your mortgage lender in the event that a problem occurs with the title at any point during your ownership. It can be a problem that just didn’t show up in the title examination, something the examiner missed, or because of an error in the public records. Let’s say a long lost heir claims a right to the house after you’ve bought it. Title insurance will cover the cost of untangling this legal problem.
There are two types of title insurance. A lender policy, usually issued for the amount of the mortgage, covers the mortgage lender. If you have to go to court with the long lost heir, the policy will cover the costs of that. If the long lost heir is indeed the legal owner of the house, instead of you, the policy will pay the mortgage back to the lender.
An owner policy covers the price of the house and pays the owner of the property for loss due to a problem with the title. If you have an owner policy and the long lost heir wins the court case, your owner policy will reimburse you for the loss of the property.
Title insurance does not cover any defects found in the property after closing, and some policies do not cover problems related to easements, mineral rights, and liens. Unless your state specifies differently, buyers must pay for title insurance, although that can be negotiated with the seller. The price is a one-time fee, usually part of the closing costs.
Most lenders require you to purchase a lender policy, but not all require an owner policy. Of course, if you’re paying cash for a property, you do not have to get title insurance, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt. It’s a good idea to protect your investment.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Adding Value to Your Property - Part 2

2010-04-07T07:01:00.001-07:00

Maintenance

Maintenance of a property may seem a bit of a bind, but without continuous attention, the value of a property will deteriorate along with its condition. Regular maintenance is the best investment that can be made in a property.

Water can cause major problems so keeping it out is very important. Start by checking the roof. Replacing broken tiles or repairing the lead flashing may not be a major job, but left unattended, could lead to problems. It's a good idea to check the guttering when it's raining. Blockages and leaks can often be spotted when viewed from across the road.

It's always worth casting an eye over the drains too. A drain cleared before a blockage occurs is easier on the nose and the wallet.

A regular lick of paint will keep a property looking good and keep deterioration at bay. A newly painted front door with shiny brass fittings always creates a good impression. When selling, a surveyor will be more impressed with ongoing maintenance than quick fixes aimed at making the property more appealing.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Adding Value to Your Property - Part 1

2010-04-07T06:58:00.000-07:00

Extensions

Rising property prices and the premium being placed on space, makes extensions a wise investment. However, extending a property is a major project and shouldn't be undertaken lightly. Call in professionals to get the job done properly as there are important planning restrictions and regulations, which need to be followed. Ask friends to recommend reputable builders and an architect. If an extension is botched, it could end up devaluing a property rather than adding value.

An extension should match the architectural style of the existing house. Extra bathrooms and large kitchens are usually good investments in family-sized homes and a garage in a busy, urban area will also add value. A good extension could add thousands to the price of a property.

The room that usually benefits the most from enlarging is the kitchen. Adding a kitchen diner creates the farmhouse kitchen most people want and gives extra space. The old dining room can become an office, playroom, or somewhere to set out a model railway. Better still, build above the kitchen extension to add an extra bedroom at the same time.

Victorian or 1930s houses are ideal for loft conversions because of their high roof pitches. Prices will vary depending on how many bedrooms are added and whether an en-suite is required. A loft room will require less planning and building requirements than a bedroom. So do the research and speak to chartered surveyors and architects!

If there isn't a reason to expand, why not get a further advance on a mortgage and give the house a dream makeover. A new kitchen, bathroom and carpets will revive the passion in the property and increase its value at the same time.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Will I get my money back?

2010-03-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Deciding whether you should renovate your existing home or purchase a new one? This is a common question and I will try to help you look at both sides. I have prepared an example of approximate costs that you are likely to recap on specific renovations.

There are many different reasons people want to renovate. People may want a lifestyle renovation like a sunroom or finishing off a basement. They may want envelope or systems projects like more insulation or upgrading your furnace, or they may just want to perform preventative maintenance on their home. Out of these we are going to focus on the lifestyle renovations.

Here is the approximate payback range of a typical renovation:

Kitchens - 68%
Bathroom - 64%
Interior Painting - 64%
Exterior Painting - 62%
Main floor family room - 50%

We are often asked about adding an in-law suite (check your local office for city conformity) which usually has return on investment of only about 40%.

In looking at these options, you have to decide on the length of time you will be in your home compared to the cost. For mechanical additions like a heat pump you may end up paying $5,000 up front, but with the cost savings over 5 years you will probably have recapped most of the cost. In those scenarios, you can calculate your costs savings much easier then with an addition. If you are planning on moving within 3 years, you might not get the return you expected.

When comparing this to buying a home, you need to look at the local market conditions and see what the general trend is. If the market is increasing, you may need to look closer at a renovation and decide whether it’s worth it.

Contact your WorldReferrals expert for more advice about your local market and the general maintenance guidelines for your area.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Healthy House Planner- Part 3

2010-03-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

Clearing the air.

You have a forced air heating system you'd think it would be a healthier environment, wouldn't you? So why does the smell of last nights dinner still linger? And why do you get so many headaches? And why do some children get go from one cold to another all winter and why do you feel so tired all the time?

Just a forced air system or baseboard heat might seem fine. If so, though, why does your basement smell musty, why the condensation on your airtight windows, and in some cases why does your paint discolor?

Maybe because your house can't breathe!

Indoor air can't escape. Fresh air and oxygen can't get in. There's no circulation.

Stale, stagnant air, pollen, dust, pet odors, and excessive humidity trapped between the walls accumulate and contribute to a build up of bad indoor air.

One system that may help is a called a continuous ventilation system, which will allow your house to breath. Here is how it works:

Vents located throughout your home draw in stale, humid air.
As the air is expelled, the outside vent simultaneously draws in fresh air warming it with the heat recovered from the indoor air being expelled
After passing through a ventilator, fresh warm air in the winter and cold in the summer depending on your indoor temperature, some systems can even work on compensating for the moisture keeping a comfortable humidity level inside the home through the year.

What about cleaning the ducts in my forced air system?

Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every home are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial.

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust or mold (no musty odor or visible mold growth), having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

Other Important Considerations...

The EPA has stated that duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts or go down after cleaning. This is because much of the dirt that may accumulate inside air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space. It is important to keep in mind that dirty air ducts are only one of many possible sources of particles that are present in homes. Pollutants that enter the home both from outdoors and indoor activities such as cooking, cleaning, smoking, or just moving around can cause greater exposure to contaminants than dirty air ducts. Moreover, there is no evidence that a light amount of household dust or other particulate matter in air ducts poses any risk to health.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Healthy House Planner- Part 2

2010-02-16T11:15:00.000-08:00

A Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home.

Why does mold grow?

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Should I be concerned about mold in my home?

Mold should not be permitted to grow and multiply indoors. When this happens, health problems can occur and building materials, goods and furnishings may be damaged.

Some types of mold can produce chemical compounds (called mycotoxins) although they do not always do so. Molds that are able to produce toxins are common. In some circumstances, the toxins produced by indoor mold may cause health problems. However, all indoor mold growth is potentially harmful and should be removed promptly, no matter what types of mold is present.

Certain people should be particularly careful of mold. People such as:

Individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities such as allergies and asthma
Persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients)
Those with special health concerns. In this case you should consult a medical professional if you feel your health is affected by indoor mold.

Can mold make me and my family sick?

Mold can affect the health of people who are exposed to it. People are mainly exposed to mold by breathing spores or other tiny fragments. People can also be exposed through skin contact with mold contaminants (for example, by touching moldy surfaces) and by swallowing it. The type and severity of health effects that mold may produce are usually difficult to predict. The risks can vary greatly from one location to another, over time, and from person to person.

What symptoms might I see?

The most common health problems caused by indoor mold are allergy symptoms. Although other and more serious problems can occur, people exposed to mold commonly report problems such as:

nasal and sinus congestion
cough
wheeze/breathing difficulties
sore throat
skin and eye irritation
upper respiratory infections (including sinus)

Research on mold and health effects is ongoing. For more detailed information consult a health professional. You may also wish to consult your state or local health department.

How do I tell if I have a mold problem?

The most practical way to find a mold problem is by using your eyes to look for mold growth and by using your nose to locate the source of a suspicious odor. If you see mold or if there is an earthy or musty smell, you should assume a mold problem exists. Other clues are signs of excess moisture or the worsening of allergy-like symptoms.

Look for visible mold growth (may appear cottony, velvety, granular, or leathery and have varied colors of white, gray, brown, black, yellow, green). Mold often appears as discoloration, staining, or fuzzy growth on the surface of building materials or furnishings. When mold is visible, testing is not recommended.
Search areas with noticeable mold odors.
Look for signs of excess moisture or water damage. Look for water leaks, standing water, water stains, and condensation problems. For example, do you see any watermarks or discoloration on walls, ceilings, carpet, woodwork or other building materials?
Search behind and underneath materials (carpet and pad, wallpaper, vinyl flooring, sink cabinets), furniture, or stored items (especially things placed near outside walls or on cold floors). Sometimes destructive techniques may be needed to inspect and clean enclosed spaces where mold and moisture are hidden; for example, opening up a wall cavity.

How do I get rid of mold?

It is impossible to get rid of all mold and mold spores indoors; some mold spores will be found floating through the air and in house dust. The mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, then, most likely, the mold problem will come back.

Three things to remember are:

The key to controlling mold is to control the moisture in your home.
You should clean up mold promptly and fix the water problem.
If you have water damage it is important to clean this up within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

In the next issue we discuss the importance of your air ducts and whether you should have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?"

If you would like more articles on this topic please let your Worldreferrals representative know. Or contact us at 1800-867-3225

Some of our material came from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Minnesota Department of Health
Here is a link for more information:

www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldguide.html

If you would like more articles like this let your Worldreferrals.com Residential Specialist know.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Healthy House Planner- Part 1

2010-02-10T11:39:00.001-08:00

Is your home a healthy home?

Whether you have a castle or a cottage your home is your sanctuary. It's a place for your family. It's where you live and more often these days where you work. Americans spend an average of 65 percent of their time at home, at what is usually viewed as a safe haven.

The bad news about indoor air quality is that it often contains higher concentrations of hazardous pollutants than outdoor air. The good news is there are a few things you can do to reduce indoor air pollution.

Home pollutants such as dust mites, animal related allergens and mold are known asthma triggers, while high accumulations of carbon monoxide and radon in inadequately ventilated homes are serious health hazards.

Preventing home environment problems can be as easy as changing furnace filters more often and as complex as changing the flooring to wood or tile in main areas of the home.

Here are some essentials to healthy housing:

Occupant health: which includes high efficiency ventilation systems, hardwood and tile floors, and storage rooms ventilated to exterior.
Energy efficiency: Increased insulation levels in walls/attic, high efficiency windows and doors, energy efficient appliances and lighting, generous windows to reduce lighting costs.
Resource efficiency: Low flow toilets and plumbing, use of rapid growing woods like spruce and maple, use of recycled building materials.

Also one of the other potential problems you may hear more about is Radon.

**The Surgeon General has warned that Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Radon is a radioactive gas. It is formed by the natural energy of uranium in rock, soil and water. Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Once produced, radon moves through the ground to the air above. It can be found in all 50 states. Unless you test for it, there is no way of telling how much is present. Contact your local state Radon contact or try www.radongas.org

Here are a few great links for more information on healthy housing and our source for some of the content used for this article.

http://healthhouse.org/iaq/checklist.htm - This site has a great healthy home checklist.
http://epa.gov - Great source on air quality and environmental issue

If you would like more articles like this let your Worldreferrals.com Residential Specialist know.

Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com