TEN REASONS TO LIST YOUR HOME OVER THE HOLIDAYS

1. People who look for a home over the holidays tend to be more serious about buying.

2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays which, in turn, means less competition and more money for you.

3. Starting in January, the amount of listings will dramatically increase. With more properties on the market, there will be less demand for your particular home.

4. Houses show better when decorated for the holidays! Buyers are more emotional during this time, so they are more likely to pay your price.

5. Often, buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays than during a regular work week, especially during winter vacations.

6. Many people want to buy before the end of the year due to tax reasons.

7. Traditionally, January is the month for corporate transferees to begin new jobs. Since these buyers cannot wait until Spring to buy, you must be on the market now to capture them.

8. You can be on the market and still have the option to restrict showings during the holidays for your special family occasions.

9. You can sell now for and set up a delayed closing until early next year.

10. By selling now, you may have the opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the Spring, when many more houses are on the market. Ottawa is enjoying a great real estate market this holiday season.

If you would like to take advantage of this situation,and list your house now,Call MARIANNE BAIRD ANDERSON!
Source: Susan Rose, Productivity Coach, Keller Williams Westside.

SENIORS AND THE UPCOMING HST

MARIANNE BAIRD ANDERSON’S TIP TO AVOID THIS TAX As of July 1st, 2010, the dreaded Harmonized Sales Tax will take effect in Ontario. Mr. McGuinty and his Liberal government will be combining the current 5% Goods and Services Tax and the 8% Provincial Sales Tax into a combined HST of 14%.How does this effect the Senior Citizen who decides to sell his/her house after July 1st? Let me explain in detail.Up until June 30th, 2010, the homeowner is required to pay the five per cent GST on such things as their Real Estate Commission, their Lawyer’s fee, their Insurance, a Building Inspector’s fee, a Stager’s fee, and any other such fees for services that they might require at the time. After July 1st, that tax will be increased to thirteen per cent which really makes a huge difference to the consumer.Is there a legal way to get around this increased tax? The only way right now would be for anyone who is thinking of selling next Sprint or Summer to move ahead in order to get their property sold and closed prior to June 30th – that way one can legally avoid the increase.If Marianne can be of assistance with your long term planning, please call at 613-786-2447. Marianne is an Accredited Seniors’ Agent and is fully trained on working with Seniors. Feel free to call anytime.