Greetings, GTA homebuyers and sellers! As we step into May, it's time to reflect on the dynamic real estate landscape that unfolded throughout April 2024. Join us as we uncover the latest insights and trends from the past month, offering a clear perspective on what April's market stats mean for your real estate journey. At Jim Stanton & Associates, our commitment to providing you with valuable information remains steadfast. Let's explore together the opportunities and possibilities that await in the ever-evolving GTA market.

Market Summary

In April 2024, the GTA real estate market stabalized:

• Sales Momentum: Compared to the same period last year, sales came down 5%. There was a month-over-month increase of 8.45%.

• Listing Dynamics: New listings skyrocketed year-over-year increase of 47.2% and a month-over-month increase of 29.12%

• Price Trends: The average price was stable increasiing 0.3% compared to last year and a with an increase of 3.08% from the previous month.

• Slight Seller's Advantage: With 2.54 months of inventory available the market was more balanced. Sellers maintained a slight position of strength.

• Time to Sell: Days on Market remained stable month-over-month and with listings taking a couple days more to sell year-over-year. 

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

Interest Rates

On April 10th. The Bank of Canada maintained its policy rate. The next scheduled announcement is June 5th. While the Bank has not committed to any specific direction signs are positive that interest rates will be coming down in the future.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

For Buyers:

Buyers benefited from increased in inventory in April and a relatively consistent timeframe to buy although that varies from market to market. The key for buyers will be what happens in June when the Bank of Canada makes it’s next interest rate announcement. The marke is still competitive but it will get even busier if rates come down. Hopefully if that happens more would be sellers will decide to put their home on the market.

• Is May your ideal time to buy?: If rates come down in June more buyers will undoubtedly hit the market and only the presence of a massive increase in sellers will keep pricing down.

• First Time/Renters vs. Movers:  Movers can handle a more competitive market because what they spend in their purchase they can also make up for in their sale. If you are a first time buyer or a renter looking to own you don’t have that advantage. 

For Sellers:

Despite a rise in sales and a surge in new listings, low inventory levels persist, intensifying buyer competition and fostering ample opportunities for sellers. While the spring market may be progressing, don't hesitate to act, even amidst the allure of awaiting more favorable mortgage rates. Consider this:

• Start Now: If you want to make a move before the school bells ring next year now is the time to act. Get your home prepared to sell. Check out our informative Instagram Reel on this very topic HERE.

• Preparation Meets Opportunity: Many sellers are waiting or rates to drop to make a move and that’s understandable. We all know rate relief is on the horizon so start today and be prepared to make your move ahead of the market.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, April 2024 witnessed a stabilization in the GTA real estate market, presenting a balanced environment for both buyers and sellers alike. Despite fluctuations in sales compared to last year, there was notable momentum with an increase from the previous month. The surge in new listings indicates a healthy influx of properties, while pricing trends remained steady. With inventory levels maintaining a modest balance, sellers retained a slight advantage, yet the market remained competitive, particularly in anticipation of potential interest rate adjustments. Looking ahead, proactive engagement will be key for both buyers and sellers to capitalize on emerging opportunities. At Jim Stanton & Associates, we're dedicated to providing the guidance and support necessary for navigating this dynamic landscape effectively.

Get the Help You Need:

Regardless of the statistics and the market you have your own reasons for making a move. A big life event, ambitions, the need to upsize or downsize or even relocate. The key is to ensure you have someone in your corner representing your best interests. Let us be your guide. Contact Us Today!

Call Jim at 905 409 9967

MORE MARKET INSIGHTS (add stats for Markham/Stouffville & Port Hope/Cobourg)

As the chill of winter fades away and the freshness of spring beckons, it's time to give your home a revitalizing makeover.

Neglecting spring cleaning tasks in March can lead to a range of issues, including increased allergens, pest infestations, decreased indoor air quality, decreased appliance lifespan, unpleasant odors, and visual discomfort. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for a healthy, comfortable, and enjoyable living environment.

Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's a chance to refresh and rejuvenate your living space.

Here's a handy checklist of 10 essential tasks to tackle this March:

1. Declutter Every Room:  Start by decluttering each room in your home. Rid yourself of items you no longer need or use. Donate, recycle, or discard as necessary. Decluttering not only makes your space look better but also promotes mental clarity and calmness.

2. Deep Clean Floors:  Give your floors some love by deep cleaning them. Vacuum carpets thoroughly, paying attention to corners and under furniture. For hardwood or tile floors, mop with a gentle cleaner to remove dirt and grime.

3. Dust and Polish Surfaces: Dust accumulates over the winter months, so it's time to banish it. Dust all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and light fixtures. Don't forget to polish wood furniture for a gleaming finish.

4. Wash Windows and Treatments: Let the spring sunshine in by cleaning your windows inside and out. Remember, it's best to avoid washing windows on sunny days as the sunlight can cause streaks. Instead, choose an overcast day for streak-free results. Don't overlook window treatments like curtains or blinds – give them a good wash or vacuum to remove dust and allergens.

5. Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances:  Your kitchen appliances have likely seen a lot of action during the winter holidays. Give them a thorough cleaning inside and out. Don't forget the refrigerator coils and oven racks!

6. Freshen Up Bedding and Mattresses:  Wash all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. Take this opportunity to rotate and flip mattresses for even wear and tear.

7. Organize Closets and Storage Spaces: Take stock of your closets and storage areas. Donate unused clothing and accessories, and organize what's left. Invest in storage solutions like bins or baskets to maximize space.

8. Clean and Inspect HVAC Systems:  As the weather warms up, it's a good time to clean or replace HVAC filters. Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service to ensure your heating and cooling systems are running efficiently.

9. Refresh Bathroom Fixtures: Scrub bathroom surfaces, including sinks, toilets, and tubs. Replace worn-out shower curtains or liners, and stock up on essential toiletries for a fresh start to spring.

10. Tidy Outdoor Spaces:  Don't forget about the exterior of your home! Sweep pathways, clean outdoor furniture, and spruce up your garden or patio. Trim bushes and trees as needed to welcome the new season.

By tackling these 10 essential tasks for spring cleaning in March, you'll not only enjoy a cleaner and more organized home but also set the stage for a vibrant and refreshing spring season ahead. Happy cleaning!

Central Oshawa is on the brink of a remarkable transformation, and for prospective homebuyers, there couldn't be a more opportune moment to invest in this thriving community. 

Here's why:

Reason 1: Massive New Development

Central Oshawa is set to undergo a monumental redevelopment with plans for a sprawling 17.7-acre project situated directly south of the forthcoming Central Oshawa GO Train Station. This ambitious venture will see the emergence of 8-15 new buildings, encompassing a staggering 5,600 residential units and 70,000 square feet of retail and commercial space, all nestled alongside an inviting urban park. The scale of this development is unprecedented and promises to infuse the area with newfound vitality and dynamism.

The proposed project represents a significant step towards establishing Central Oshawa as a vibrant, mixed-use, transit-oriented neighborhood. With future regional rapid transit connectivity in the pipeline, the stage is set for a wave of community investment and growth. The inclusion of residential towers, street-level commercial establishments, and expansive green spaces underscores a commitment to fostering a diverse and sustainable urban environment.

Reason 2: New Central Oshawa GO Train Station

As part of the Lakeshore East Expansion Project, Central Oshawa is slated to welcome a brand-new GO Train Station. This station will be nestled between Simcoe St. S. and Ritson Rd. S., will serve as a pivotal multi-modal transportation hub, offering seamless connectivity for commuters and residents alike. With rush hour service every 30 minutes, commuters can look forward to trimming 15 minutes off their daily travel time, enhancing both convenience and accessibility.

Moreover, the new station is poised to catalyze revitalization efforts in the surrounding area, positioning Central Oshawa as a thriving transit-oriented hub. From providing a vital link to the regional transit system to accommodating the diverse needs of students and the workforce, this station promises to be a transformative addition to the community.

Summary:

In summary, the impending redevelopment of Central Oshawa heralds a new era of opportunity and growth for prospective homeowners. With the prospect of a vibrant mixed-use community taking shape and enhanced transit infrastructure on the horizon, Central Oshawa is primed to emerge as a sought-after destination for residents and investors alike. By seizing the opportunity to invest in this burgeoning locale now, homeowners stand to benefit from the immense value appreciation and enriched quality of life that this transformative redevelopment promises to deliver. The time to embrace the promise of Central Oshawa's future is now.

Connect with our team to learn about your buying options in Central Oshawa, what home values are like, and how you can take advantage of this opportunity as a homeowner or investor. Contact US

The Open Offer Process

How will more transparency change the offer process?

As housing costs have risen and inventory remains well below demand, multiple offer situations have increased dramatically. Buyers and sellers have demanded more transparency.

In response to that the government has introduced an Open Offer Process with new legislation under TRESA coming into effect on December 1, 2023.

So what does this mean going forward?

The Open Offer Process does not mean all multiple offers will be disclosed from here on out. Sellers will be the ones to decide what if anything they will disclose in the offer process.

Here are the key takeaways:

1. Sellers initiate the Open Offer Process

2. Sellers can initiate this at any time in the offer process

3. Sellers decide what to disclose (ex; price, terms, etc.)

4. Sellers do not have to disclose that information from all offers received

5. If offer details are being disclosed, all buyers must receive the information

6. Sellers must not disclose any personal identifying information about buyers

7. Sellers must still disclose the number of registered offers to all interested parties

How does this impact you as a Seller?

Sellers can now determine whether they would like to sell their home under the traditional blind bidding process in which buyers are only notified how many offers are registered, or they can choose to disclose select information about one or more offers to all buyers involved. There are advantages and risks to this process but it can open up a myriad of options for sellers and become a powerful negotiating tool to encourage buyers to submit their highest and best offer.

How does this impact you as a Buyer?

For Buyers, it provides some extra consideration when drafting an offer. Knowing that the price or terms of your offer may be disclosed to other buyers can affect your decision to make an offer in the first place. Given the seller determines the process and that they have complete control of when and if they disclose offer information you need to go into each offer fully informed. 

As with Sellers, there are advantages and disadvantages of knowing the terms of competing offers. Knowing how your offer stacks up against competitors can help you negotiate, but you may not always have a complete picture. Sellers are not obliged to provide information on all the competing offers nor are they obliged to provide all the terms on a given offer. 

So how can you come out on top?

This is where working with an experienced Realtor and negotiator is essential. You need someone in your corner who understands the strategies being deployed and can use the available information to help you make strong and secure decisions. We are laser-focused on helping our clients achieve their goals through powerful negotiations and providing valuable insights to help you every step of the way.

Call to book a free Real Estate Consultation with us - 905-995-3372

As the leaves start to change color and fall from the trees, it's a sure sign that autumn has arrived. While many of us enjoy the beauty of the season, it also brings a unique set of challenges for homeowners. One of these challenges is keeping your gutters clean and free from debris. Clogged gutters can lead to a host of problems, including water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage to your home. To help you maintain your gutters this fall, we've put together three effective ways to keep them clean and functional.

1. Regular Gutter Cleaning

The most fundamental way to keep your gutters clean in the fall is through regular maintenance. Set a schedule for gutter cleaning, ensuring that you check and clean them at least twice during the season. The ideal times to do this are in early autumn before leaves start falling in earnest and again after most of the leaves have fallen. Here's how to go about it:

a. Gather the right tools: You'll need a sturdy ladder, a pair of gloves, a scoop or trowel for removing debris, a bucket or bag for collecting the debris, and a garden hose with a nozzle attachment.

b. Safety first: Before you begin, make sure your ladder is on stable ground and that you have someone nearby to assist if needed.

c. Remove debris: Climb the ladder and scoop out leaves, twigs, and other debris from the gutters. Work your way along the gutter, paying special attention to corners and downspouts.

d. Check for blockages: Make sure that downspouts are clear of obstructions. Use the garden hose to flush out any remaining debris, allowing water to flow freely.

e. Inspect for damage: While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect your gutters for any signs of damage, such as rust, loose brackets, or sagging sections. Address these issues promptly to avoid costly repairs later on.

2. Install Gutter Guards

To make your life easier and reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, consider installing gutter guards. Gutter guards are designed to keep leaves and debris out of your gutters while allowing water to flow through freely. There are various types of gutter guards available, including:

a. Mesh guards: These are made of a fine wire or plastic mesh that allows water to pass through while keeping leaves and debris out.

b. Reverse-curve guards: These are designed to encourage leaves to blow off the roof, leaving your gutters clear.

c. Bottle brush guards: These consist of bristles that let water flow while preventing debris from entering.

Before choosing a gutter guard, consider your specific needs, the type of trees around your home, and your budget. While they can be a significant upfront investment, they can save you time and effort in the long run by reducing the frequency of gutter cleaning.

3. Trim Overhanging Trees

Another proactive way to prevent excessive debris from entering your gutters is to trim overhanging tree branches. Trees shed leaves and twigs during the fall, and if they're directly above your roof, these materials will inevitably find their way into your gutters. Regular tree maintenance can help reduce the amount of debris that lands in your gutters. Hire a professional arborist or use appropriate tools and safety gear to safely trim branches away from your roof and gutters.

Maintaining clean and functional gutters during the fall is essential to protect your home from water damage and other issues. By following these three key strategies – regular gutter cleaning, installing gutter guards, and trimming overhanging trees – you can ensure that your gutters stay debris-free and in good working order. Don't wait until the last leaf has fallen; start implementing these practices to keep your gutters clean and your home safe this autumn.

The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to kick off the festivities than by attending a Santa Claus parade? These heartwarming events bring communities together, spreading cheer and joy to people of all ages. In the next two months, there are several Santa Claus parades scheduled in Toronto and the Durham Region that you won't want to miss. Let's take a closer look at what's in store:

1. Dates and Times

Mark your calendars for the following Santa Claus parades:

• Bowmanville Santa Claus Parade on November 18th at 10:30 am. The parade will wind through downtown Bowmanville along King St. Learn more.

• Santa’s Parade of Lights in Oshawa on November 18th at 6:00 pm. The parade route starts at King St. and Stevenson Rd. Learn more.

• Santa’s Spectacle of Lights in Ajax on November 25th at 6:00 pm. The parade kicks off at Bayly St. and Mackenzie Ave. and ends at Ajax Town Hall. Learn more.

• Pickering Santa Claus Parade on November 25th at 10:00 am. Beginning at Dixie and Glenanna and ending in Pickering’s City Centre.

• Downtown Toronto's Original Santa Claus Parade on November 26th at 12:30 pm, celebrating its 119th year with a new route. You can watch it on CTV. Learn more.

• Port Perry Scugog Santa Claus Parade on December 2nd at 5:00 pm. The parade theme is "Christmas Movies." Learn more.

• Whitby Santa Claus Parade on December 2nd at 10:00 am. The route runs through the heart of downtown Whitby. Learn more.

2. Unique Features and Themes

One of the highlights of this year's parades is the Scugog Santa Claus Parade's exciting theme, "Christmas at the Movies." Attendees can look forward to seeing floats inspired by their favorite holiday films. [Find movie inspiration here]

Pickering’s parade theme is Holiday Storytime, where groups are invited to represent pop culture or cultural stories about the holidays in their float design. 

3. Getting Involved

You can get involved in these parades as a spectator or participant. Many events accept donations to fund the parade or support local charities. If you're interested in participating, consider entering a float or volunteering as a marcher, marshal, or crowd supervisor. Check the parade's website for details on how to get involved.

4. Notable Sponsors and Organizations

These parades are not only a celebration of the holiday spirit but also an opportunity for community organizations and businesses to showcase themselves. For example, the Whitby Santa Claus Parade is organized by the Optimist Club of Brooklin and features over 50 organizations spreading holiday joy along the route.

5. Popular Traditions

Kids will be delighted to receive candy canes from costumed characters, local firefighters, and parade participants. These events also showcase a wide array of community organizations, from dance troupes to sports teams, allowing you to see how you can get involved in your local community.

6. Historical Facts

Did you know that the Toronto Santa Claus Parade has a rich history, running for an impressive 119 years? Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the parade continued virtually, maintaining its tradition of spreading holiday joy.

7. Parade Day Tips

As you prepare to attend these parades, keep in mind the following tips:

• Dress appropriately for the weather.

• Bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating.

• Consider bringing non-perishable food donations to support local charities.

• Don't forget to bring a letter for Santa!

• Pack snacks and warm beverages to keep everyone in your group comfortable during the parade.

So, whether you're in Toronto or the Durham Region, these Santa Claus parades are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Bundle up, gather your loved ones, and head out to enjoy the festive floats, holiday music, and the magic of Santa himself. Make this holiday season unforgettable with the joy of a Santa Claus parade!