Rick on Real Estate

Interesting article in the Globe and Mail regarding CMHC and what might happen if it were to disappear ....http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/personal-finance/mortgages/can-we-afford-less-chmc/article4573255/

Can we afford less CHMC? How would Canadians fare amid higher down payments and scaled back mortgage guarantees?

In so far as I have ALWAYS advised my Seller Clients NOT to sign a "Sellers' Property Information Form" (SPIS) for their protection, it appears that it can harm the Buyers too! I will never ask a client of mine to sign something or do something that I would not do myself if I were my own client. The SPIS is a prime example.
http://www.aaron.ca/columns/2012-05-26.htm

SPIS information statements dangerous for all SPIS information statements dangerous for all , Seller Property Information Statement, a form published and promoted by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), Cotton v. Monahan, dangers of using SPIS, Aaron & Aaron, Bob Aaron is a Toronto area Lawyer specializing in...

You have to be VERY CAREFUL about who you consider renting your property to. Remember, even if you are renting it out short term or renting your own home for a period of time you are away, you become a Landlord under the Landlord & Tenant Act and ALL aspects apply!

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1173615--tenant-from-hell-leaves-string-of-landlord-victims #.T6VATsxmMs0.facebook

Tenant from hell leaves string of landlord victims A Toronto Star investigation reveals that the rules governing the provincial Landlord and Tenant Board have allowed bad tenants to flourish.

Here's an interesting article on what to consider when pricing your home:

http://www.inman.com/buyers-sellers/columnists/taranichollenelson/3-tips-setting-homes-list-price

3 tips for setting home's list price | Inman News REThink Real Estate. Q: How can I really determine what my property is worth? Here is the situation: An online estimate website says my property is worth $230,000, but my agent says it's worth only $200,000! I'm listed at $225,000, and my price is comparable to other comparable listings. I r...