Control Home Security with your Smartphone

Imagine the convenience of disarming your alarm system while in your driveway, or checking in on your teenagers or your pet while you're out of town? With today's new interactive services all this is possible and more.

Through cutting edge technology from leading security companies such as Reliance Protectron and their myprotectron.com portal system you can control your home security system from anywhere via the web or your smartphone, including arming and disarming your alarm, locking or unlocking your front door, controlling lights and appliances as well as your home's thermostat from a distance.

“You can even have video surveillance and be alerted to view the comings and goings of cleaning staff or house sitters on your phone, according to Patrice De Luca, VP of Marketing and Customer Care for Reliance Protectron Security Services. “Its powerful functionalities make this the most advanced home-security technology available—and at a very attractive price.”

In addition to Protectron's state-of-the-art monitoring services, myprotectron.com interactive home security services lets you have full control over your system with a wealth of monitoring and home automation tools. For example, you can get real-time updates on doors and windows, watch live and recorded video feeds, and review “event histories” for when your kids get home from school or when cleaning or maintenance crews come and go.

All this control is accessible by logging in to your myprotectron.com account from your personal computer, BlackBerry, Android, iPhone app or any web-enabled device.

The interactive security system requires no landline or Internet connection; instead, the signal from your security system travels wirelessly using a dedicated, encrypted and secure connection. When trouble strikes, it interacts with Protectron's monitoring centres to send out an immediate response. So unlike traditional security alarm systems that rely on a telephone line, it works in every home and can't be defeated by a burglar snipping or tampering with the wire.

“The interactive system features a state-of-the-art colour touch-screen interface, GSM (cellular) transmitter (radio), integrated two-way voice, along with the built-in Z-Wave RF transmitting protocol, making it the most advanced home-security technology available,” added De Luca.

The system will keep you updated on anything you want to know about the security of your property while you're away with email or text message alerts when specific sensors are activated giving you unprecedented control over the security of your home or business. More information and instructional videos on protecting your home on the go is available online at www.protectron.com.

www.newscanada.com

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

Closing Day Preparations

Closing day refers to the date mutually agreed to by the seller and buyer for the transfer of funds, title and the keys (usually). This can be a stressful time for both parties considering that this may be the largest sale or purchase of a lifetime. A few essential preparations can make the transaction flow smoothly. 

Buyer Preparations 
The buyer must review the closing statement carefully and double-check the calculations. Review the lender, title and escrow fees to ensure that what was discussed is accurately reflected in the documentation. 

You should also review the exact legal description of the property and any liens, encumbrances or other items which may have been discovered in regard to the property. Also ensure that the title or escrow agent has the correct title on the deed. Correcting a vesting on a deed later can be time consuming. 

Buyers should also arrange to re-inspect the property just prior to closing. This can avoid any nasty surprises on moving day. On or after closing day, buyers have less leverage to demand that repairs or other promised changes actually be completed. If the seller promised to paint a fence or empty the pool you have a right to insist that these be done. 

Before signing your name to any closing document be sure that the interest rates, miscellaneous fees and the condition of the property are all what you agreed to. Honest mistakes have been known to happen but these mistakes can be costly. 

Seller Preparations 
Whenever possible avoid closing on a Friday, at the end of the month, or before long weekends. If anything goes wrong the banks will be closed. For example, if you are retiring your mortgage you may face addition interest adjustments if the funds reach the lender too late on a Friday afternoon. The seller may be faced with three extra days of interest (four days over a long weekend!). 

Don't forget your utilities. Depending on your jurisdiction, the buyer's lawyer or notary will contact the local water, electricity and gas companies to have the meters read as of closing day. However, it may be your responsibility so check with your real estate agent or lawyer beforehand. This avoids any gaps in service for the buyer and extra expense for the seller. 

Most other services into the home are the responsibility of the seller. At least a week before the closing date, contact your cable television, telephone and Internet service provider if you have one. Terminating service on or just before closing day can save you additional charges. Adjustments There are also several adjustments to consider. These are designed to settle any expense incurred (or income earned on rental properties) by either you or the buyer as of the day of closing-which is what both parties want. Municipal property taxes, school taxes, monthly condominium fees, utilities, and fire insurance (plus sales taxes) are all common expenses that need to be adjusted at closing. 

Any expenses you have prepaid before closing day are pro-rated, with the buyer reimbursing you for the period during which you no longer own the property. Expenses that have not yet been paid, but which apply to the time during which you owned the home are similarly pro-rated and reimbursed to the seller. 

If the buyer assumes your mortgage, the outstanding principal plus accrued interest and any funds held in your tax account are also adjusted for, as are first and last month's rent on rental properties. 

Closing day need not be worrisome if both parties plan ahead and review all paperwork carefully. In fact, with enough preparation, closing day should be the beginning of a new chapter for buyer and seller in their new homes.

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

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Thinking of Building a New Home?

Finding the perfect combination of house and location can often be a challenge. Perhaps you have found a lot with a lovely view, privacy and mature vegetation. The only problem is the house. The World War II-era foundation is cracked, the kitchen is the size of a closet and none of the bedrooms will accommodate your furniture. Rather than passing up the purchase, consider whether it is feasible to renovate or rebuild. Once you have done a careful analysis of the renovation costs, it’s time to weight them against the costs and benefits of rebuilding from the ground up.

One of the greatest benefits of building a new home is freedom of choice. You can choose the size, layout, style and other features of your home. As you write your wish list, consider these factors:

Size: Will you be adding to your family with children or accommodating elderly parents? If so, anticipating future needs will ensure your home will be suitable for years to come. However, keep in mind that size directly affects the cost. Most builders provide a price based on square footage. As well, there are long-term expenses: a large home will cost more to heat, light, cool and furnish. If you choose a large square footage, consider building upwards rather than outwards to minimize the size and cost of the foundation.

Style: Although new home construction is an opportunity to express your individuality, be careful about venturing too far from the norm. A cutting-edge design may be difficult to sell in the future. Also, consider the styles in the neighbourhood. For example, you may not recoup the costs of building a high-end, 4,000-square foot home in a neighbourhood of moderately priced bungalows. Shape: Be aware that the shape of a home can affect the cost of construction. A rectangular or square home is the least expensive to build. The more angles and corners, the more labour and materials will be required.

Materials: Energy efficient materials and building techniques can substantially reduce heating, cooling and lighting costs over the long run. Technology is constantly improving and you may be pleasantly surprised at the current ‘pay back’ on some items. Solar water heaters pay for themselves in 8-10 years and, considering that they have a lifespan of approximately 25 years, you can enjoy 15 years or more of free water heating! Can you think of any building materials that are dropping in price? Solar panels are one of the very few. Increased consumer demand has resulted in a reduced cost-per-unit. This gives homeowners more incentive to use solar panels to supplement their energy needs and/or provide emergency power. There is also a wide range of energy-efficient options in flooring, insulation, roofing and windows.

Mobility: If you would like to spend your retirement years in the house, design with mobility in mind. This means creating the space to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Traditional bathrooms and kitchens are too small to allow someone in a wheelchair to turn around. The Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation recommends allowing a manoeuvring space of 75 x 120 cm (30 x 47 in.) in front of or beside all fixtures including the bathtub, shower and storage spaces. Pocket doors save space within the bathroom. Countertops in the bathroom and kitchen should be lower than traditional at 86 cm (34 inches) to 91 cm (36 inches). Single lever taps are the easiest to use by someone in a wheelchair and anyone with arthritis.

Site Characteristics: Building on a flat lot usually costs less than building on a slope. Costs will increase if the builder needs to remove large trees or rocks before laying the foundation. Types of Plans Custom home plan This option typically requires the assistance of a licensed architect and an experienced contractor. However, your vision is essential to the process. Consider using design software to help you work out the details. It allows you to express your ideas in a format that is much clearer to the architect than handmade drawings! Ideally, purchase software that is compatible with your architect’s professional design programs.

Even with the assistance of technology, your design may require some adjustments by an architect particularly in terms of structural soundness. For example, the frame must be able to support the weight of the roof and an upper floor (if applicable) and withstand a certain level of vibration (such as in a minor earthquake). An architect may also be able to suggest cost-savings such as designing in two-foot increments to reduce lumber waste since lumber is usually sold in two-foot increments. Once the architect has completed the design, you will need to hire a building contractor who will coordinate the work of framers, electricians, plumbers and other tradespeople. Be sure to check references when selecting a contractor. Get the project scope, responsibilities, cost and timelines in writing.

Lastly, communicate with your contractor frequently and, ideally, at the worksite. Existing house plan Today, you can choose from thousands of home plans. Catalogues of plans are available for sale at most bookstores and on the internet. Once you find a home design you like, you can purchase the blueprints and other information that a contractor will require. Pre-fabricated homes This option promises to be faster and easier than starting ‘from scratch’. When you order one of the ‘pre-fab’ home plans, the manufacturer delivers the blueprints, pre-cut lumber, windows, doors needed to complete the home. Packages vary by manufacturer so carefully read the details and ask for a list of references.

If, in the end, you decide to build a new home, you are embarking on an adventure that will reward you for years to come.

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

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Finding a Rental in Hamilton

According to the most recent rental market information released by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CHMC), rental vacancy rates have fallen across the country creating new opportunities for homeowners.  At the same time, economists and government officials are predicting economic improvement, which in turn is expected to nudge up mortgage rates.   Rental income may become a financial necessity for many households while also providing needed housing.

Regardless of statistics, many homeowners will continue to add secondary and garden suites for personal reasons.  A suite can allow ageing parents to be part of the family and enjoy extra care and assistance when needed.  Illness or accident can also create the need for wheelchair accessible housing for family members.  The federal government provides some financial compensation for this type of construction (http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/prfinas/).  Another common reason for adding a suite is simply to accommodate a growing family.  Building an addition in the form of a suite creates space for a child or children now and perhaps a renter in the future.

Investing in a self-contained rental suite can be an expensive and time-consuming endeavour so it is wise to build for the long-term.  Quality materials and design will add to the comfort and longevity of the unit and may justify higher than average rent.  Lighting, flooring and layout are key considerations.  Since many suites are constructed in basements or rooms that are partially below ground, proper drainage and a good subfloor structure can avoid flooding and uncomfortably cold floors.  Adequate insulation, particularly in the ceiling and common walls, will give both parties privacy. 

Aside from appearance and comfort, homeowners need to consider municipal guidelines for secondary and garden suites.  Meeting these guidelines can help to avoid bylaw infractions and also allow homeowners to market their suite as a “legal suite”, which is generally more appealing to renters.  Insurance companies should also be informed of the rental unit to avoid costly coverage lapses in the event of a flood, fire or other type of accident.  

These important tips will help to protect the financial and physical health of both renters and owners:

·         The height of the rooms should meet provincial building codes regulations

·         If there are bars on the windows for security, these must be able to be removed or opened from the inside without tools or special knowledge in event of a fire

·         Handrails and guards are needed on stairways as outlined in provincial building codes

·         There must be at least one exit leading directly to the outdoors

·         Occupants of secondary suites must be able to control the temperature of their unit

·         A furnace must be separated from the rental unit with a wall

·         There must be one smoke detector for each 300 square feet of space (this varies by municipality)

·         Carbon monoxide detectors are necessary in suites with fireplaces or those heated by wood-burning stoves or gas furnaces

·         Landlords should provide tenants with instructions on testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

·         The walkways to the suite should be well light and kept clear of snow or other hazards

Once a secondary or garden suite is constructed or renovated, it can provide many years of extra income for relatively little effort.  Quality materials and design can help to ensure that the suite remains rented even as vacancy rates fluctuate.  A unit in a neighbourhood close to amenities, work centres or a college or university will almost always be in demand.

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

May Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates current as of May

Current Discount Mortgage Rates	May 2013
Variable Rate	2.79%
1 Year	2.74%
2 Year	2.69%
3 Year	2.79%
4 Year	3.09%
5 Year	3.39%
7 Year	3.59%
10 Year	3.89%
Prime Rate	3.00%
* Rates subject to change and OAC.

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

Building a New Deck

Spring has officially arrived, and summer is just around the corner! OK, maybe it doesn't seem that way for some of us who continue to deal with snow and freezing temperatures. But the hour of sleep we lost the first Sunday morning in April signifies the time of year when homeowners feel inspired to build decks. But before you arbitrarily flip through the Yellow Pages or pick up your hammer and nails, you're going to want to consider a few factors first.

What will you be using your deck for? Will you be using it simply for relaxing in your favorite lawn chair? Setting up a table and chairs for dining al fresco? Both perhaps? And just how much of a sun worshipper are you? 

As you can see, there are so many things to consider. Depending upon the time of year, your home could block the sun. Or, if you live in a hot climate, you might want to build your deck at an angle that provides you with some degree of insulation from the hot sun. Also, consider that some trees lose their leaves in winter and will allow the winter sun access to your deck. Other trees, such as evergreens, however, won't lose their leaves, and will continue to provide shade and cooler temperatures on your deck when you won't necessarily want them. Particularly now, when the public is extremely aware of the need to protect the skin from the sun's potentially harmful ultraviolet rays, shade is necessary. So you're probably going to need an umbrella that you can adjust as the sun changes direction over the course of the day. When the winter months roll in, however, you're going to need a place to store that large umbrella. 

Consider the most common wind direction in your yard. You may want to consider building an ivy-covered screen or hedge to block out annoying breezes (imagine what a strong wind can do to your outdoor dinner party). And how about noise? Does your home back up to a major thoroughfare? While it's nearly impossible to insulate yourself from all surrounding noise pollution, planting trees or hedges or building screens can help to some degree. Which part of your backyard is most scenic? Would you like to be able to see it from your deck? 

Make sure you don't block the view with high screens or hedges, or construct them in designs that allow for partial views. And speaking of views, make sure that your neighbors won't be able to wave at you while you're enjoying your deck. Construct your hedges or screens to maintain your privacy. 


Do you plan to sit outdoors on your deck at night? Then you're going to need to wire the outside area to accommodate lighting and waterproof electrical outlets. Most people don't consider it, but decks often become 'catch-alls' for garden tools, hoses, empty pots, children's toys and/or pool accessories. Before long, your deck becomes an unsightly mess. It's worth your while then to plan to build a storage space along with your deck. Place it in a hidden space away from your deck if possible, or if you use those items frequently, plan to build yourself an attractive or perhaps camouflaged storage space near or on the deck.

The most common form of entry onto a deck is through a pair of French doors. However some homeowners elect to build sliding glass doors, although they are becoming a bit outdated, and their safety has been questioned because burglars have had success in forcing them open. French doors are a more visually attractive choice, and if you plan to entertain on your deck, you'll want to provide entry through them via the kitchen if possible. And if your back yard slopes down from your home, you're going to need to build your deck upon posts - a job which no homeowner should attempt to pursue on his or her own. Call an expert. 

Amidst contemplating all these choices, don't forget one of the most important things you need to do - consult your city's building department regarding your property lines. And do this BEFORE you get slapped with fine, angry neighbors or both! It's best to get out your pen and paper, and write down your "wish list" for a deck - what its design will be like, what you'll be using it for and the views you'd like to see from the deck. And like any other home improvement project, interview several builders before you select one. Shop around and don't rush yourself. With a little preparation, you can turn an ordinary back yard into a peaceful, scenic respite.

www.realestate-hamilton.ca

Spring Market Takes Off!

The REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) reported sales, listings and the average sale price for all property types listed through the RAHB Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in April showed increases over the same month last year.

There were 2,202 properties listed in April, a 6.5 per cent increase over April of last year.  All property sales numbered 1,521, representing a 5.5 per cent increase over the same month last year.   The average sale price of $382,682 was an increase of 1.8 per cent from the previous April.

“Spring has arrived for the resale real estate market,” said RAHB CEO Ross Godsoe.  “We started seeing more listings and sales come through the MLS® system first thing in April.   All property sales are not only higher than last year, but are the second highest in an April for the last 20 years.”

Seasonally adjusted* sales of residential properties were 4.5 per cent lower than the same month last year, with the average sale price up 2.4 per cent for the month.  Seasonally adjusted numbers of new listings were 2.2 per cent lower than the same month last year.

Seasonally adjusted data for residential properties for the month of April, 2013:

Actual overall residential sales were 5.1 per cent higher than the previous year at the same time.  Residential freehold sales were five per cent higher than last year while the condominium market saw an increase in sales of 5.6 per cent.  The average sale price of freehold properties showed an increase of 1.9 per cent over the same month last year; the condominium market, however, saw a decrease of 8.6 per cent when compared to the same period last year.
The average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all residential properties sold.  Average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends, but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value.
The average days on market increased from 38 days to 40 days in the freehold market and from 41 days to 42 for condominiums.

“Listings are up from last year, but there are still fewer listings on the market than there were a year ago,” noted Godsoe, “and the number of listings is still below the average for the last ten years.  The seller’s market which has existed in our market area continues, even though we saw some signs of a more balanced market at the end of the first quarter.”

Year to date, listings are down 2.9 per cent compared to the same period last year, while sales are seven per cent lower.  The average sale price for the first four months of the year is 5.7 per cent higher than the same period last year.

Controlling Weeds

Do as I say, not as I do. Weeds are the current bane of my existence. A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to grow in rows, once wrote humourist Doug Larson.  Weeds grow more quickly and vigorously than most of our valued vegetables, fruits, flowers and other landscaping plants.  While you may never be able to completely eradicate weeds, you can minimize their presence and enjoy a beautiful lawn and garden.

One of the best ways to gain some ground against these unwelcome intruders is with healthy soil.  Nutrient-rich soil will give your plants a fighting chance to become established and eventually crowd out the weeds.

There are several options available to improve your soil:

•    Alfalfa pellets contain nitrogen and calcium, which are especially good for flowers and lawns.
•    Compost is an excellent source of nutrients, beneficial soil organisms and fibrous material to help your soil maintain moisture.  A backyard compost bin allows you to reduce your landfill contributions while providing free soil amendments.  
•    Sea kelp provides trace minerals as well as a high ratio of potassium.
•    Fish emulsion (or fish meal) is rich in nitrogen.
•    Professionally produced, composted manure will be heated to the proper temperature to ensure it is safe.  The finished product provides generous amounts of phosphorus and potassium.  
•    Avoid metal in your garden; for example, aluminum stunts plant growth and damages plant DNA especially when the soil is acidic (i.e., a pH of 5.5 to 3.5).
•    Avoid chemical fertilizers which eventually add too much salt to the soil and kill plants—making this a counterproductive addition!