Young cancer survivor tells her story
Here's the press release I wrote for The Sentinel-Review to promote the Relay For Life Rally set for Wednesday, Feb 29 at 7 p.m.
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By Mark Schadenberg
The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) national motto 'celebrate . . . remember . . . fight back' is woven into the hearts of all participants in the annual 12-hour walk known as Relay For Life.
The 13th annual benefit in Woodstock is June 15-16 at CASS high school. The organizing committee's chosen theme is Field Of Dreams.
The guest speaker for this year's Relay For Life Rally on Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 7 p.m. knows all about remembering, fighting back, and now celebrating her on-going dream to defeat cancer permanently.
Michelle Bisaillon will have the keynote address at the Rally planned for Feb. 29 at Quality Hotel & Suites on Bruin Blvd.
Bisaillon is the storyteller, recalling her battles with cancer over the past seven years. Every cancer survivor has a unique story. For Bisaillon, she was just 14 when diagnosed with leukemia.
According to a profile story published in The Paris (Ont.) Star newspaper just last month, her list of treatments only begins with chemotherapy. At an age when the pressures of life should be about the semesters at high school, her life included bone marrow testing, lumbar punctures, blood clots and nerve damage. Bisaillon was a patient in intensive care at McMaster Children's Hospital.
The entire medical chart will be revealed in her speech.
However, now a few short years later, Bisaillon is a second-year student at McMaster University. Due to cancer though part of her right leg has been amputated.
To celebrate or remember the two-year anniversary of the amputation, Bisaillon received a tattoo: 'What doesn't kill me will only make me stronger'.
"(The tattoo) is a discussion point and a great way to advocate with different groups that I volunteer with," Bisaillon was quoted in the Paris newspaper.
University studying is directing Bisaillon toward a career as a social worker and she wants to concentrate her efforts in one particular specialty -- the oncology ward at McMaster Children's Hospital.
"I can give (children diagnosed with cancer) hope at the time when it's hard and tell them there is a light at the end of the tunnel," said Bisaillon.
The Relay For Life Rally is designed to introduce the 13th annual event's theme of Field Of Dreams, notes committee co-chairs Kim Whitehead and Keri Axon. The volunteer steering committee number is close to 40 and the overall total of volunteers -- leading up the event and for the day itself, is over 250. Anyone planning on participating in Relay For Life this year is invited to attend the Feb. 29 rally.
Last year, 68 teams registered in Woodstock and over $275,000 was raised. This year, the goal is 75 teams and $300,000. You may register a team online at www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock, visit the CCS office at 65 Springbank Ave North, or call (519) 537-5592. New volunteers and corporate sponsors are also invited.
The Oxford unit of the CCS is part of the organizing group for Woodstock, but also has Relays scheduled for Tillsonburg (Annandale school on June 8-9), and Ingersoll (IDCI on June 22-23).
Tuesday 28 February 2012
Saturday 25 February 2012
Ontario Place employees want to save park
Ontario Place saga
Recently, I included a story in this space about Ontario Place phasing out much of its amenities, including the midway rides, in an attempt to refocus the highly-valued lakefront property in Toronto.
The actual concert amphitheatre was slated to remain open as its certainly a popular summer destination.
In today's Toronto Star newspaper there is a story quoting many Ontario Place employees about many reasons to not close much of the fcaility, saying ridership increased in 2011 compared to one year earlier.
Here's the link: http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1136753--employees-and-supporters-rally-to-keep-ontario-place-open?bn=1
Recently, I included a story in this space about Ontario Place phasing out much of its amenities, including the midway rides, in an attempt to refocus the highly-valued lakefront property in Toronto.
The actual concert amphitheatre was slated to remain open as its certainly a popular summer destination.
In today's Toronto Star newspaper there is a story quoting many Ontario Place employees about many reasons to not close much of the fcaility, saying ridership increased in 2011 compared to one year earlier.
Here's the link: http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1136753--employees-and-supporters-rally-to-keep-ontario-place-open?bn=1
Thursday 23 February 2012
Frosty Fest Fun For Families
Brantford has Bell Homestead and Frosty Fest
The Family Day holiday in Ontario has only been around for a few years, but it's time the focus on the day becomes a time to create as many local family activities as possible -- all-day free public swimming and skating, and maybe open up some school gyms for floor hockey or pickup basketball -- no registration fee and design it as unstructured play time for children and parents.
BRANTFORD
This past Monday, our family went to Frosty Fest in Brantford, which featured outdoor skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, ice carving with chainsaws, snowboarding exhibition, and even kids' midway rides like a carousel, tea cups, and mini roller coaster of trucks.
I believe this was the third year for this downtown winter carnival (Harmony Square literally on the same block as the Sanderson Centre), which is sponsored by the parks and recreation department in Brantford, but is organized by a church group called Freedom House (www.freedomhousebrantford.blogspot.com). The spokesperson / cheerleader for the event runs around in tights and a cape like a superhero and calls himself Captain Kindness.
With media sponsors CKPC radio and the Expositor newspaper, and corporate backing from TD Bank and Sylvan Learning Centre and many many others, the City of Brantford has a great idea happening.
The Family Day holiday in Ontario has only been around for a few years, but it's time the focus on the day becomes a time to create as many local family activities as possible -- all-day free public swimming and skating, and maybe open up some school gyms for floor hockey or pickup basketball -- no registration fee and design it as unstructured play time for children and parents.
BRANTFORD
This past Monday, our family went to Frosty Fest in Brantford, which featured outdoor skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, ice carving with chainsaws, snowboarding exhibition, and even kids' midway rides like a carousel, tea cups, and mini roller coaster of trucks.
I believe this was the third year for this downtown winter carnival (Harmony Square literally on the same block as the Sanderson Centre), which is sponsored by the parks and recreation department in Brantford, but is organized by a church group called Freedom House (www.freedomhousebrantford.blogspot.com). The spokesperson / cheerleader for the event runs around in tights and a cape like a superhero and calls himself Captain Kindness.
With media sponsors CKPC radio and the Expositor newspaper, and corporate backing from TD Bank and Sylvan Learning Centre and many many others, the City of Brantford has a great idea happening.
Young Street For A Young Family
Is 44 Young Street Your Destination?Newer and Young (Street)!
A central location and a quiet street are important selling points about this 7-year-old 2-storey with 3 bedrooms. The 44 Young (MLS: 68-767; Asking $217,900) offering is highlighted by extensive crown moulding, ceramic tile, custom blinds and wainscoting.
Open concept main floor which includes a large eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar and pot lights. The dinette area is large enough for a table for eight. Patio doors to a wood deck. Picture window in living room which has laminate flooring.
Main floor 2pc bathroom with antique-like vanity -- another feature that makes this house a home.
Let's Go Fencing !
Lot is 150 ft deep and fenced -- ideal for a family with a Boxer named Rover or a roving Shepherd.
The double-wide paved driveway has been added in the last two years. The garage includes an automatic opener and shelving for your camping gear.
This is a great choice for a young family with convenience of master bedroom's (Vaulted ceiling and attractive appealing decor) cheater door to main bathroom. The full enclosure tub is always one way to know you're getting a home where the plumber was thinking quality and convenience.
High efficiency gas furnace and central air too!
The lower level is unfinished, but there is a rough-in for a 3rd bathroom.
This home is near shopping and several restaurants -- just a short walk to Dairy Queen.
Call me today to view this home, or anything you see on Realtor.ca.
A central location and a quiet street are important selling points about this 7-year-old 2-storey with 3 bedrooms. The 44 Young (MLS: 68-767; Asking $217,900) offering is highlighted by extensive crown moulding, ceramic tile, custom blinds and wainscoting.
Open concept main floor which includes a large eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar and pot lights. The dinette area is large enough for a table for eight. Patio doors to a wood deck. Picture window in living room which has laminate flooring.
Main floor 2pc bathroom with antique-like vanity -- another feature that makes this house a home.
Let's Go Fencing !
Lot is 150 ft deep and fenced -- ideal for a family with a Boxer named Rover or a roving Shepherd.
The double-wide paved driveway has been added in the last two years. The garage includes an automatic opener and shelving for your camping gear.
This is a great choice for a young family with convenience of master bedroom's (Vaulted ceiling and attractive appealing decor) cheater door to main bathroom. The full enclosure tub is always one way to know you're getting a home where the plumber was thinking quality and convenience.
High efficiency gas furnace and central air too!
The lower level is unfinished, but there is a rough-in for a 3rd bathroom.
This home is near shopping and several restaurants -- just a short walk to Dairy Queen.
Call me today to view this home, or anything you see on Realtor.ca.
Friday 17 February 2012
Genworth vs CMHC
Should You Consider Genworth For Mortgage Insurance? Yes
When thinking about purchasing a home and sitting down with a calculator to establish how much you may be able to afford, be sure to consult with both a Realtor (hopefully myself) and your financial institution (*).
The reason I say this, is your lender may tell you that you could afford a (example) $200,000 home, but based on the insurance due on a high-ratio mortgage for a down payment of less than 35% (loan-to-value ratio), you will also have closing costs, which includes this insurance amount. The mortgage insurance will either be through Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en) or likely Genworth Financial (www.genworth.ca), which is a TSE traded company (MIC) and not a federal government agency.
If your savings amount to less than 25% down payment (Savings or equity from selling current home) on your chosen house, you will be required to pay this insurance. In fact, the percentage for most buyers with even 34.9% down is still 0.5% or $1,000 on a $200,000 mortgaged amount. You can visit the two above noted websites for more homework, charts and calculator tips, but it can be said that 5% down requires a 2.75% insurance fee on the amount you are borrowing.
Quite frankly, this creates an obvious safety net for the lenders, who must scrutinize who they hand out mortgages to (credit checks, etc), but it is also a terrific method of making Canadians home owners.
While much of this material has been presented in other writings, my point today is to ask your lender which direction they will go in underwriting your mortgage -- Genworth or CMHC. It might be important to attempt an affiliation with Genworth.
The other day I attended a morning seminar conducted by Rory Campbell of Genworth, and he made several very good salesmanship points about the company he is employed by.
In the worse-case scenario of losing your job or having an injury or illness preventing you from working for a few months, Genworth is the company that is ready to work with their clients/borrowers to keep them in their home, and not losing the house to a power of sale or foreclosure.
Genworth has 30 employees whose sole job is to negotiate 'workouts' with clients. With early intervention, Campbell notes, most people could stay in their house by deferring payments for a few months, increasing the amortization timetable or even receiving assistance in selling the house to cover (loan) any shortfalls.
The interesting statistic that Campbell noted was that in 2007 there were 450 'workouts' in Canada, but by 2011 that number had risen to 6200. Remember, the key to this mortgage insurance is to make it easier for home ownership for families.
Campbell's seminar also included terms such as shelter shock, beacon score and drive-by appraisal. In the end, it was a very informative course attended by many local Realtors.
(*) Your Mortgage
Just a quick reminder. If your mortgage is soon due for renewal or you are thinking of a move, give me a call to talk about house prices and what is available on the market, but also call me as I have many very good contacts at all five major banks in Woodstock, plus Rochdale Credit Union, and a mortgage advisor with Dominion Lending Services with more than 25 years experience. You will receive the best information and advice by going to the right people first.
I could show you a chart depicting that thanks to on-going low interest rates and the equity you currently have earned (low interest rates allow you to pay off your principle quicker), you could buy that larger home your family requires (is growing into) and maintain the same monthly payments you are already accustomed to.
Mark Schadenberg, sale rep
Royal LePage Triland Realty
www.marksells.ca
mschadenberg@rogers.com
Call or Text: (519) 537-1553
Office: 539-2070
When thinking about purchasing a home and sitting down with a calculator to establish how much you may be able to afford, be sure to consult with both a Realtor (hopefully myself) and your financial institution (*).
The reason I say this, is your lender may tell you that you could afford a (example) $200,000 home, but based on the insurance due on a high-ratio mortgage for a down payment of less than 35% (loan-to-value ratio), you will also have closing costs, which includes this insurance amount. The mortgage insurance will either be through Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en) or likely Genworth Financial (www.genworth.ca), which is a TSE traded company (MIC) and not a federal government agency.
If your savings amount to less than 25% down payment (Savings or equity from selling current home) on your chosen house, you will be required to pay this insurance. In fact, the percentage for most buyers with even 34.9% down is still 0.5% or $1,000 on a $200,000 mortgaged amount. You can visit the two above noted websites for more homework, charts and calculator tips, but it can be said that 5% down requires a 2.75% insurance fee on the amount you are borrowing.
Quite frankly, this creates an obvious safety net for the lenders, who must scrutinize who they hand out mortgages to (credit checks, etc), but it is also a terrific method of making Canadians home owners.
While much of this material has been presented in other writings, my point today is to ask your lender which direction they will go in underwriting your mortgage -- Genworth or CMHC. It might be important to attempt an affiliation with Genworth.
The other day I attended a morning seminar conducted by Rory Campbell of Genworth, and he made several very good salesmanship points about the company he is employed by.
In the worse-case scenario of losing your job or having an injury or illness preventing you from working for a few months, Genworth is the company that is ready to work with their clients/borrowers to keep them in their home, and not losing the house to a power of sale or foreclosure.
Genworth has 30 employees whose sole job is to negotiate 'workouts' with clients. With early intervention, Campbell notes, most people could stay in their house by deferring payments for a few months, increasing the amortization timetable or even receiving assistance in selling the house to cover (loan) any shortfalls.
The interesting statistic that Campbell noted was that in 2007 there were 450 'workouts' in Canada, but by 2011 that number had risen to 6200. Remember, the key to this mortgage insurance is to make it easier for home ownership for families.
Campbell's seminar also included terms such as shelter shock, beacon score and drive-by appraisal. In the end, it was a very informative course attended by many local Realtors.
(*) Your Mortgage
Just a quick reminder. If your mortgage is soon due for renewal or you are thinking of a move, give me a call to talk about house prices and what is available on the market, but also call me as I have many very good contacts at all five major banks in Woodstock, plus Rochdale Credit Union, and a mortgage advisor with Dominion Lending Services with more than 25 years experience. You will receive the best information and advice by going to the right people first.
I could show you a chart depicting that thanks to on-going low interest rates and the equity you currently have earned (low interest rates allow you to pay off your principle quicker), you could buy that larger home your family requires (is growing into) and maintain the same monthly payments you are already accustomed to.
Mark Schadenberg, sale rep
Royal LePage Triland Realty
www.marksells.ca
mschadenberg@rogers.com
Call or Text: (519) 537-1553
Office: 539-2070
Monday 13 February 2012
Promote Your Activity and Recreation Fair
More Exhibits Still Required
Story I wrote for Woodstock Sentinel-Review to promote upcoming Rec & Leisure Fair:
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The annual Woodstock Rec & Leisure Fair bills itself as having something for everyone, and that only becomes a reality after a wide range of exhibitors agree to participate to promote who they are.
This is the eighth year the Woodstock Recreation Advisory Committee (WRAC) has organized this free community event, which is all about finding a place to be involved -- for you or your entire family. Information will be available on minor sports, adult sports, hobbies (photography, crafts, etc), groups who research history, collecting clubs, choirs, dancing, acting, singing, musicians (arts and creative arts), tai chi, fitness, service clubs, and sports clubs to join -- perhaps badminton, cycling, lawn bowling, curling and kids' tackle football.
WRAC has already sent out close to 100 invitations to groups, asking for their participation.
The Fair this year is Sunday, March 4, 1 - 4 p.m., at Cowan Park (indoor soccer complex) off Ridgewood Drive. Admission is always free and door prizes will be awarded.
"(WRAC) decided to change venues for two main reasons," says WRAC committee chair Mark Schadenberg, explaining that the community hall / gymnasium at Cowan Park is larger than Goff Hall at the Southwood facility, which in-turn provides for additional space for both booths and demonstrations.
"We also felt our show would be another vehicle to help promote this terrific new municipal facility which is quickly becoming an option locally for event planners, weddings, fundraisers and banquets," added Schadenberg.
WRAC reminds all groups who invite membership from the public and want to promote exactly who they are, to plan on booking a booth for the fair -- $25 for non-profit organizations, and $50 for for-profit companies, such as fitness centres, golf courses and nutritional advice. If you or your organization have not already received a formal letter from WRAC, contact the committee soon.
"One of the mandates of (the WRAC) is to promote the availablility of all recreation and leisure activities. The Rec and Leisure Fair can only be successful if first we sign up a large cross-section of groups to participate, and then it becomes a successful event when the public attends the show," says Schadenberg. "Whether you're new to the area and seek information on a wide range of interests, or have lived in Woodstock for a long time, people are always looking for something new to be involved with for healthy living or simply feeling more connected to the community."
The Rec & Leisure Fair could be a good venue, for example, for a group seeking to recruit volunteers, for service clubs to invite new members, to learn about tackle football for kids, or tackling a new activity like square dancing.
"It really is an event for everyone to attend from all age brackets and interests," says WRAC vice chair Dan Gray. "This is a great event for a family because it really does depict something our committee (WRAC) believes . . . that Woodstock does have something for everyone."
If you're part of a group seeking more information about booking an exhibit booth, contact Glynis Hill at the City's Community Services department soon at 539-2382.
Story I wrote for Woodstock Sentinel-Review to promote upcoming Rec & Leisure Fair:
()()()()()()()
The annual Woodstock Rec & Leisure Fair bills itself as having something for everyone, and that only becomes a reality after a wide range of exhibitors agree to participate to promote who they are.
This is the eighth year the Woodstock Recreation Advisory Committee (WRAC) has organized this free community event, which is all about finding a place to be involved -- for you or your entire family. Information will be available on minor sports, adult sports, hobbies (photography, crafts, etc), groups who research history, collecting clubs, choirs, dancing, acting, singing, musicians (arts and creative arts), tai chi, fitness, service clubs, and sports clubs to join -- perhaps badminton, cycling, lawn bowling, curling and kids' tackle football.
WRAC has already sent out close to 100 invitations to groups, asking for their participation.
The Fair this year is Sunday, March 4, 1 - 4 p.m., at Cowan Park (indoor soccer complex) off Ridgewood Drive. Admission is always free and door prizes will be awarded.
"(WRAC) decided to change venues for two main reasons," says WRAC committee chair Mark Schadenberg, explaining that the community hall / gymnasium at Cowan Park is larger than Goff Hall at the Southwood facility, which in-turn provides for additional space for both booths and demonstrations.
"We also felt our show would be another vehicle to help promote this terrific new municipal facility which is quickly becoming an option locally for event planners, weddings, fundraisers and banquets," added Schadenberg.
WRAC reminds all groups who invite membership from the public and want to promote exactly who they are, to plan on booking a booth for the fair -- $25 for non-profit organizations, and $50 for for-profit companies, such as fitness centres, golf courses and nutritional advice. If you or your organization have not already received a formal letter from WRAC, contact the committee soon.
"One of the mandates of (the WRAC) is to promote the availablility of all recreation and leisure activities. The Rec and Leisure Fair can only be successful if first we sign up a large cross-section of groups to participate, and then it becomes a successful event when the public attends the show," says Schadenberg. "Whether you're new to the area and seek information on a wide range of interests, or have lived in Woodstock for a long time, people are always looking for something new to be involved with for healthy living or simply feeling more connected to the community."
The Rec & Leisure Fair could be a good venue, for example, for a group seeking to recruit volunteers, for service clubs to invite new members, to learn about tackle football for kids, or tackling a new activity like square dancing.
"It really is an event for everyone to attend from all age brackets and interests," says WRAC vice chair Dan Gray. "This is a great event for a family because it really does depict something our committee (WRAC) believes . . . that Woodstock does have something for everyone."
If you're part of a group seeking more information about booking an exhibit booth, contact Glynis Hill at the City's Community Services department soon at 539-2382.
Monday 6 February 2012
Four For You To Consider
Two Condominiums & Two Detached Homes
In this space I write often about my current listings and upcoming open houses, but what about all the other marketable homes our office is currently promoting.
Here's a group of four re-sale residential properties that could be of interest to you. Again, since all consumers (you and I) believe information should be available to all, I do include the MLS (realtor.ca) number and asking price for each.
246 Light St, Woodstock.
Asking: $319,900. MLS: 67-983.
Listed By: Lynn Routly
Century home in one of Woodstock best neighbourhoods. Hardwood flooring and original tall trim among highlights of 3-bedroom home. Master bedroom with ensuite. Spacious main-floor family room with sliding doors out to a deck. Basement recroom is approx 25' x 25'. Lot is 54' x 198.
617 Lansdowne Avenue
Asking: $259,900. MLS: 66-717
Listed by: Bob Pozza
With a tennis court and inground pool, this truly is city's destination for a condominium lifestyle. Two-storey unit features 2-car garage, 3 bedrooms including large luxury ensuite and walk-in closet, plus extra-large eat-in kitchen and brand new appliances. Even a putting green in lower recroom.
635 Southwood Way, #18, Woodstock
Asking: $215,000. MLS: 68-326
Listed by: Peter Vandersar
Unique one-floor-plan 2-bedroom condo, which is both an end unit and features a 3-car garage. Convenience of main-floor laundry. Open bright theme at front with its living-dining-kitchen area. Five appliances plus central vac. Across street from a park and very close to new hospital.
48 Anderson St, Woodstock
Asking: $199,900. MLS: 68-165
Listed by: Sharon Veenstra
Family home with 3 bedrooms, but best feature is the 3-year-old maple kitchen with granite counters (stunning renovation) in open-concept main floor. Plus: stainless steel appliances included, newer patio doors, hardwood flooring, 2 full bathrooms, lower recroom, and central air.
This is simply a very small cross-section of our office listings. If you would like to view one of them or anything you see on http://www.realtor.ca/, give me a call anytime.
Finally, a quick tip about realtor.ca? If you're looking in a certain price range, this website divides its listings and searches into $25,000 increments. Best idea then is to look within those parameters -- your price range and simply click on the red dots that appear on the map.
I'm a full-time Realtor with 13 years experience. If you've been considering a purchase for awhile and you're ready to run out and find your next home, I'm ready to run with you.Mark SchadenbergSales RepresentativeRoyal LePage Triland Realty757
(519) 539-2070
www.wesellwoodstock.com
Home: 258 Dent Place, Woodstock
537-1553, cell or text; 539-4319, homeDundas Street, Woodstock, Ont.www.marksells.caEmail: mschadenberg@rogers.com
Twitter: markroyallepage
In this space I write often about my current listings and upcoming open houses, but what about all the other marketable homes our office is currently promoting.
Here's a group of four re-sale residential properties that could be of interest to you. Again, since all consumers (you and I) believe information should be available to all, I do include the MLS (realtor.ca) number and asking price for each.
246 Light St, Woodstock.
Asking: $319,900. MLS: 67-983.
Listed By: Lynn Routly
Century home in one of Woodstock best neighbourhoods. Hardwood flooring and original tall trim among highlights of 3-bedroom home. Master bedroom with ensuite. Spacious main-floor family room with sliding doors out to a deck. Basement recroom is approx 25' x 25'. Lot is 54' x 198.
617 Lansdowne Avenue
Asking: $259,900. MLS: 66-717
Listed by: Bob Pozza
With a tennis court and inground pool, this truly is city's destination for a condominium lifestyle. Two-storey unit features 2-car garage, 3 bedrooms including large luxury ensuite and walk-in closet, plus extra-large eat-in kitchen and brand new appliances. Even a putting green in lower recroom.
635 Southwood Way, #18, Woodstock
Asking: $215,000. MLS: 68-326
Listed by: Peter Vandersar
Unique one-floor-plan 2-bedroom condo, which is both an end unit and features a 3-car garage. Convenience of main-floor laundry. Open bright theme at front with its living-dining-kitchen area. Five appliances plus central vac. Across street from a park and very close to new hospital.
48 Anderson St, Woodstock
Asking: $199,900. MLS: 68-165
Listed by: Sharon Veenstra
Family home with 3 bedrooms, but best feature is the 3-year-old maple kitchen with granite counters (stunning renovation) in open-concept main floor. Plus: stainless steel appliances included, newer patio doors, hardwood flooring, 2 full bathrooms, lower recroom, and central air.
This is simply a very small cross-section of our office listings. If you would like to view one of them or anything you see on http://www.realtor.ca/, give me a call anytime.
Finally, a quick tip about realtor.ca? If you're looking in a certain price range, this website divides its listings and searches into $25,000 increments. Best idea then is to look within those parameters -- your price range and simply click on the red dots that appear on the map.
I'm a full-time Realtor with 13 years experience. If you've been considering a purchase for awhile and you're ready to run out and find your next home, I'm ready to run with you.Mark SchadenbergSales RepresentativeRoyal LePage Triland Realty757
(519) 539-2070
www.wesellwoodstock.com
Home: 258 Dent Place, Woodstock
537-1553, cell or text; 539-4319, homeDundas Street, Woodstock, Ont.www.marksells.caEmail: mschadenberg@rogers.com
Twitter: markroyallepage
Friday 3 February 2012
Weisleder writes; we read
At a recent Royal LePage Triland meeting in London, the guest speaker was lawyer / columinst / authour Mark Weisleder.
While a lot of his material is written with the Toronto market in mind, a lot of this latest prose makes sense in Oxford County as well. His opinions and articles can be found in the Toronto Star (thestar.com) or moneyville.ca
()()()()()()()()()()
Why it’s a good time to buy a home
By Mark Weisleder, moneyville.ca, Jan 27, 2012
I believe there has never been a better time to buy a home. I’ve been in the industry for 28 years as a lawyer and I haven’t seen so many positive signs for housing, whether you are thinking or buying or locking in a mortgage.
Here’s why:
Mortgage rates at historic lows: They can’t get any lower. Four to five-year fixed mortgages at 3 per cent are unheard of. It is lower than the variable rate that most Canadians have been paying for years. Rates have nowhere to go but up, either later this year or next. If you are paying a variable interest rate, lock in now.
Canada’s appeal: This country has everything going for it — a stable banking and political environment, steady real estate market, the natural resources people want and few social tensions. That makes us a safe haven in a volatile world.
Our immigrant draw: Because of the above, we’re a draw for immigrants, often wealthy ones. When they get here, they need a home. So in my view while the real estate market may level off in some areas of Ontario, it should stay strong in most of the GTA and likely Canada’s other large urban centres as well.
Mortgage defaults: According to CMHC, over 99 per cent of Canadians pay their mortgages on time. It quite a different picture in the U.S. where 7 million homes are in foreclosure and perhaps another 7 million homeowners are under water. This represents almost 15 per cent of all homes. So while the American housing market will likely be weak for the next few years, this should not occur in Canada. Our banks are not dumping homes onto the market, so there is no downward pressure on prices.
Recourse Mortgages: In many U.S. states, if you can’t pay your mortgage, the only thing the bank can do is foreclose; they cannot sue you for any shortfall. So when homes go under water, owners give the keys back to the bank. In Canada, loans are almost all Recourse, meaning if you don’t pay and there is a shortfall, the lender can sue you for the difference. This is another reason why, in my opinion, even if times do get tough, Canadian homeowners will find a way to make the payments until things improve.
Income-to-price ratio: Another misleading statistic is that in major markets, like Toronto, the average price of a home is now 4.6 times the income of the average Canadian. This same statistic was found just before the U.S. and UK markets went into the tank. However, if you look at median incomes of Canadians against the median cost of homes, this average comes down to around 3.5, which is not dangerous. Using averages are wrong. A person receiving social assistance will not buy a home, and should not be included in any relevant statistic.
High consumer debt: The warnings about rising debt ratios must be examined carefully. The Governor of the Bank of Canada is worried that the average personal debt ratio is now 156 per cent in Canada. This means a household making $100,000 per year, owes $156,000, two-thirds of which is mortgage debt. Why is this so bad? At an interest rate of 3 or even 5 per cent, the amount needed to service the debt is manageable. Most people do not pay off their mortgages in one year. Still, this is another good reason to consolidate your debt now, at these low interest rates, and lock in.
No guarantees: Nobody can predict the future and there’s always the possibility of a major economic shock. Yet, in a U.S. presidential election year, politicians will do whatever is necessary to prevent it. If the economy goes into the tank, so do re-election chances. The U.S. is already showing signs of economic recovery.
No matter what, do not take on a monthly payment higher than what you can afford. Meet with your lender or mortgage broker in advance to figure out what you can afford before you start looking for a home. It may be the best time to buy, but you need to buy smart.
Mark Weisleder is a lawyer, columnist, author and speaker to the real estate industry. You can contact Mark at mark@markweisleder.com
While a lot of his material is written with the Toronto market in mind, a lot of this latest prose makes sense in Oxford County as well. His opinions and articles can be found in the Toronto Star (thestar.com) or moneyville.ca
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Why it’s a good time to buy a home
By Mark Weisleder, moneyville.ca, Jan 27, 2012
I believe there has never been a better time to buy a home. I’ve been in the industry for 28 years as a lawyer and I haven’t seen so many positive signs for housing, whether you are thinking or buying or locking in a mortgage.
Here’s why:
Mortgage rates at historic lows: They can’t get any lower. Four to five-year fixed mortgages at 3 per cent are unheard of. It is lower than the variable rate that most Canadians have been paying for years. Rates have nowhere to go but up, either later this year or next. If you are paying a variable interest rate, lock in now.
Canada’s appeal: This country has everything going for it — a stable banking and political environment, steady real estate market, the natural resources people want and few social tensions. That makes us a safe haven in a volatile world.
Our immigrant draw: Because of the above, we’re a draw for immigrants, often wealthy ones. When they get here, they need a home. So in my view while the real estate market may level off in some areas of Ontario, it should stay strong in most of the GTA and likely Canada’s other large urban centres as well.
Mortgage defaults: According to CMHC, over 99 per cent of Canadians pay their mortgages on time. It quite a different picture in the U.S. where 7 million homes are in foreclosure and perhaps another 7 million homeowners are under water. This represents almost 15 per cent of all homes. So while the American housing market will likely be weak for the next few years, this should not occur in Canada. Our banks are not dumping homes onto the market, so there is no downward pressure on prices.
Recourse Mortgages: In many U.S. states, if you can’t pay your mortgage, the only thing the bank can do is foreclose; they cannot sue you for any shortfall. So when homes go under water, owners give the keys back to the bank. In Canada, loans are almost all Recourse, meaning if you don’t pay and there is a shortfall, the lender can sue you for the difference. This is another reason why, in my opinion, even if times do get tough, Canadian homeowners will find a way to make the payments until things improve.
Income-to-price ratio: Another misleading statistic is that in major markets, like Toronto, the average price of a home is now 4.6 times the income of the average Canadian. This same statistic was found just before the U.S. and UK markets went into the tank. However, if you look at median incomes of Canadians against the median cost of homes, this average comes down to around 3.5, which is not dangerous. Using averages are wrong. A person receiving social assistance will not buy a home, and should not be included in any relevant statistic.
High consumer debt: The warnings about rising debt ratios must be examined carefully. The Governor of the Bank of Canada is worried that the average personal debt ratio is now 156 per cent in Canada. This means a household making $100,000 per year, owes $156,000, two-thirds of which is mortgage debt. Why is this so bad? At an interest rate of 3 or even 5 per cent, the amount needed to service the debt is manageable. Most people do not pay off their mortgages in one year. Still, this is another good reason to consolidate your debt now, at these low interest rates, and lock in.
No guarantees: Nobody can predict the future and there’s always the possibility of a major economic shock. Yet, in a U.S. presidential election year, politicians will do whatever is necessary to prevent it. If the economy goes into the tank, so do re-election chances. The U.S. is already showing signs of economic recovery.
No matter what, do not take on a monthly payment higher than what you can afford. Meet with your lender or mortgage broker in advance to figure out what you can afford before you start looking for a home. It may be the best time to buy, but you need to buy smart.
Mark Weisleder is a lawyer, columnist, author and speaker to the real estate industry. You can contact Mark at mark@markweisleder.com
Wednesday 1 February 2012
Massive Changes Planned For Ontario Place
On my birthday in August of 2013 about one-quarter of North America lost its hydro in an extensive blackout. This became quite a personal inconvenience for my wife and I that day -- not because I was in the dark on my birthday, but because we had tickets to see Steely Dan at Toronto's Ontario Place.
In the news this week is that Ontario Place will be closing much of its attractions, including the IMAX cinema dome, but the concert amphitheatre will remain open. If you have ever seen a concert there -- on the lake and with much of the venue open to the stars, it's a great place to see a show.
I also recall seeing two other of my favourites at Ontario Place -- Alan Parsons opened for Yes.
As for Steely Dan, that show was rescheduled for September of that year, so I could still use the tickets.
I think Ontario Place is having difficulty competing with Canada's Wonderland, and to some degree a family's stay-cation to Niagara Falls / Marineland.
Here's the brief story from today's (Feb 1) Toronto Sun newspaper:
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Ontario Place shuts some facilities for revamp By
Toronto SunTORONTO - The province is looking at a radical makeover for Ontario Place. Sections of Ontario Place will close to allow a revitalization of the faded beauty by the lake.
Tourism, Culture and Sport Minister Michael Chan announced the water park, concessions, rides and iconic Cinesphere will no longer be available to the public. The closures take effect immediately and are permanent.
The Molson Amphitheatre, Atlantis events facility, marina and parking lot will stay open for now.
John Tory will lead a panel that advises the provincial government on what should be done with the waterfront tourist site.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan said the government is subsidizing the 41-year-old Ontario Place to the tune of $20 million a year as attendance drops year after year.
"Families have been speaking with their feet," Duncan said.
Everything is apparently on the table for the 51-hectare site although the government says it will remain accessible to the public.
A casino and condos have yet to be ruled out.
The government will entertain private-sector investment in the revitalization project.
It’s expected that the remake will be complete by Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017, and possibly available during the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto.
Ontario Place first, designed by architect Eb Zeidler, opened in 1971 with an initial admission fee of $1 for adults and 50 cents for kids.
The children's village opened in 1972 and a Canada-first waterslide began thrilling visitors in 1978.
The Cinesphere housed the world's first permanent IMAX theatre. The two government ministers could not say immediately if the Cinesphere, that iconic symbol on the waterfront, would be demolished.
CLOSINGCinesphere (Imax Theatre)
Children's Festival Stage
Heritage Square
Echo Beach
Soak City Water Park
Mini Bumper Boards
Mini-Greens
Power Wheels Track Ride
First Flight Ride
Freefall Ride
Cyclone Speedway Ride
Conservation Area/Eco Learning Centre
Gift Shop
4D Ontario
Food and Beverage Outlets
Wilderness Adventure Ride
Eco Zone 30-Seater and Motion Simulator Ride
The Go Zone - The Atom Blaster Game
OP Driving School
Bumper Boats
Pedal Boats
Marine Grille
National Helicopter Rides
STAYING OPENMolson Amphitheatre
Atlantis Restaurant And Event Facility
Parking Lot
MarinaAntonella Artuso ,Queen's Park Bureau Chief
In the news this week is that Ontario Place will be closing much of its attractions, including the IMAX cinema dome, but the concert amphitheatre will remain open. If you have ever seen a concert there -- on the lake and with much of the venue open to the stars, it's a great place to see a show.
I also recall seeing two other of my favourites at Ontario Place -- Alan Parsons opened for Yes.
As for Steely Dan, that show was rescheduled for September of that year, so I could still use the tickets.
I think Ontario Place is having difficulty competing with Canada's Wonderland, and to some degree a family's stay-cation to Niagara Falls / Marineland.
Here's the brief story from today's (Feb 1) Toronto Sun newspaper:
()()()()()()()()()
Ontario Place shuts some facilities for revamp By
Toronto SunTORONTO - The province is looking at a radical makeover for Ontario Place. Sections of Ontario Place will close to allow a revitalization of the faded beauty by the lake.
Tourism, Culture and Sport Minister Michael Chan announced the water park, concessions, rides and iconic Cinesphere will no longer be available to the public. The closures take effect immediately and are permanent.
The Molson Amphitheatre, Atlantis events facility, marina and parking lot will stay open for now.
John Tory will lead a panel that advises the provincial government on what should be done with the waterfront tourist site.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan said the government is subsidizing the 41-year-old Ontario Place to the tune of $20 million a year as attendance drops year after year.
"Families have been speaking with their feet," Duncan said.
Everything is apparently on the table for the 51-hectare site although the government says it will remain accessible to the public.
A casino and condos have yet to be ruled out.
The government will entertain private-sector investment in the revitalization project.
It’s expected that the remake will be complete by Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017, and possibly available during the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto.
Ontario Place first, designed by architect Eb Zeidler, opened in 1971 with an initial admission fee of $1 for adults and 50 cents for kids.
The children's village opened in 1972 and a Canada-first waterslide began thrilling visitors in 1978.
The Cinesphere housed the world's first permanent IMAX theatre. The two government ministers could not say immediately if the Cinesphere, that iconic symbol on the waterfront, would be demolished.
CLOSINGCinesphere (Imax Theatre)
Children's Festival Stage
Heritage Square
Echo Beach
Soak City Water Park
Mini Bumper Boards
Mini-Greens
Power Wheels Track Ride
First Flight Ride
Freefall Ride
Cyclone Speedway Ride
Conservation Area/Eco Learning Centre
Gift Shop
4D Ontario
Food and Beverage Outlets
Wilderness Adventure Ride
Eco Zone 30-Seater and Motion Simulator Ride
The Go Zone - The Atom Blaster Game
OP Driving School
Bumper Boats
Pedal Boats
Marine Grille
National Helicopter Rides
STAYING OPENMolson Amphitheatre
Atlantis Restaurant And Event Facility
Parking Lot
MarinaAntonella Artuso ,Queen's Park Bureau Chief
Home Efficiency Retro-Fit Program Discontinued
The government-funded project that would assist in your home renovations with a rebate has ended.
These house improvements had to increase the energy efficiency of your home by a required percentage, so many of the planned projects were windows and doors, added insulation, high efficiency furnace, or possibly other heat-recovery systems. Therefore, the entire program was based on attaching a score to your house before the work and having an inspector return later to check out all the improvements made. The home owner would then apply for a partial rebate on the money spent.
The story below --as printed in the London Free Press -- describes the end to this funding:
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These house improvements had to increase the energy efficiency of your home by a required percentage, so many of the planned projects were windows and doors, added insulation, high efficiency furnace, or possibly other heat-recovery systems. Therefore, the entire program was based on attaching a score to your house before the work and having an inspector return later to check out all the improvements made. The home owner would then apply for a partial rebate on the money spent.
The story below --as printed in the London Free Press -- describes the end to this funding:
()()()()()()()()()
Ending retrofit rebate program stings
ENERGY CONSERVATION: Maximum number of participants was reached two months early
By Debora Van Brenk, The London Free Press
Last Updated: February 1, 2012 8:00am
STRATHROY - Connie Mero will sign the papers Wednesday to buy her first home, a century-old bungalow in Strathroy.
But replacing its original wood-frame windows, skimpy insulation and old air-conditioner will have to wait -- the feds unexpectedly cancelled a hugely popular energy-retrofit program on Saturday, the day before her home inspection.
"I'm just not going to consider that for at least two or three years. I couldn't afford it without some sort of rebate," Mero said.
The sudden cancellation of the federal EcoENERGY program will cost hundreds of jobs and slow energy conservation across the country, say some in the industry.
"There are going to be a lot of jobs lost now," said Paul Gagliardi, whose London-based company BuyWise Consulting Inc. has co-ordinated 44,000 energy audits across Canada, most of them in Ontario.
Those lost jobs include not only energy auditors but heating, window and installation tradespeople.
"It was very abrupt," Gagliardi said.
His industry says families spend $10 on home renovations for every $1 paid in incentives and every $1 the government spent on incentives returned double that amount in tax revenue.
The industry is lobbying for a five-year plan that continues to promote eco-energy but "I'm not holding my breath" that the feds will adopt it, said Mike Lipczynski of Holmes Inspection Services in London.
He had to cancel four audit appointments that had been scheduled for this week and "they're very disappointed," he said.
One of those customers said his next call would be to cancel a furnace installation.
Those who have had an initial audit done will get more time to complete their upgrades and to have a second audit completed: the original deadline for that was March 31 and it's been extended to June 30.
Helen Reed of GreenSaver, an Ontario non-profit energy organization, said her group would prefer long-term strategies for energy conservation but she believes most people intent on enrolling in the program had already done so.
But Gagliardi said that argument doesn't take into account those who recently bought, or who are thinking of buying, older homes.
Ryan Bowering, head of Home Explore Inspections, said the program's cancellation will be a loss to everyone, including to the environment and to governments who received the tax revenue.
"It was a win-win," Bowering said. "What it was doing was giving homeowners extra incentive to get their homes upgraded."
He had to deliver the bad news to Mero during his inspection Sunday of her future home.
"We got the e-mail Sunday that (EcoENERGY) was done Saturday night at midnight," Bowering said.
The federal program first began in 2007 and was cancelled in March 2010, a year earlier than expected.
It was renewed in June 2011 with a deadline for March 31, 2012.
Natural Resources Canada cut the EcoEnergy program short two months earlier than expected because it had reached its goal of 250,000 participants A spokesperson said the program had a limited budget -- $400 million -- and that the department had said clearly it would offer incentives to as many as 250,000 homeowners.
Even with the cancellation of the federal program, some Ontario incentives remain in place, including a $150 subsidy on the first energy audit and grants of as much as $650 to replace central heating-and-cooling units.
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THE ecoENERGY RETROFIT
To be eligible for as much as $5,000 in rebates, homeowners needed to get an identification/registration number before Jan. 28.
Registration allowed them to book a certified energy auditor to assess their homes for energy loss and recommend ways to improve it.
Homeowners could then choose which retrofits to make (furnace, air-conditioner, windows, insulation, for example) and which contractors to choose for the work. That work needs to be done, with receipts, by March 31.
The auditor needs to return for a second evaluation to verify what work has been done. The deadline for homeowners to complete the second audit and apply for a rebate is extended to June 30. It had been March 31.
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