Latest Real Estate News

#TenYearChallenge
Recently social media has been filled with people taking the #TenYearChallenge. The premise is simple, share your profile picture from 10 years ago side by side with your current one. It’s a fun way to look back at the past and see how much we have all changed. We thought it would be fun to take our own #TenYearChallenge and see how things stack up in Ottawa Real Estate compared to ten years ago....

Embrace Winter: Go for a Skate!
This winter has been a challenging one for everyone; whether it’s the treacherous commutes or never-ending “snow days”, it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel! Instead of focusing on how many more cold days lie ahead, try embracing the season for all that it has to offer. Skating is a truly Canadian activity but many of us haven’t laced up our skates since we were kids. Ottawa ha...

Ottawa Real Estate Update: January 2019 Record-Breaking Home Sales!
January 2019: Record-Breaking Home Sales! February 5, 2019
Highlights
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 820 residential properties, an increase of 15.8 % over January 2018.
611 in the residential property class, a rise of 14.2% over January 2018
209 in the condominium property class, an increase of 20.8% over January 2018
$432,829 was the average sale price of a residential-class prop...

President and CEO of Royal LePage Named Most Influential Canadian in Residential Real Estate
For the sixth year in a row, Swanepoel Power 200 (SP200) has named Phil Soper, President and CEO of Royal LePage, the most influential person in Canadian residential real estate. The SP200 is the definitive ranking of residential real estate leaders across North America. Soper was ranked 11th overall, rising three positions from last year.
With over 17,000 agents nationwide Royal LePage – a...

Home Inspections: What You Need To Know
A home is quite likely one of the biggest purchases of your life and you want to make sure that you know what you are buying. While the home may have looked perfect to you, there may be underlying issues that are only visible to a trained eye. For this reason, it is important that you include a home inspection in the conditions of your offer. You should never judge a book by it’s cover and the sam...

The Benefits of Home Staging
Defining Home Staging
You may hear your Realtor suggest home staging in order to increase its chances on the market. Before you brush off the idea and assume you don’t need it, you should understand what it is and how you can benefit from it. Home staging is more than decluttering and depersonalizing your home, it’s when you hire professionals to reinvent the living space for new potential buyers....

New Year, New Home
How do you know if you’re ready to move? Besides deciding that it’s something you want to do in the new year, and planning for the big transition, how can you be sure it’s the right call? Has your family grown too big for the house? Perhaps it’s not by choice but due to work. Are you interested in downsizing? Here is a checklist you might want to review before you go looking for a new home.
Looki...

Market Snapshot: Ottawa Real Estate December 2018
That’s a wrap: Ottawa Real Estate Market December 2018!
As 2018 wrapped up, the inventory shortage has had a ripple effect; while residential sales were down slightly, it also fueled the condominium market. Overall, 2018 was another stellar year in Ottawa real estate! If you’re thinking of making a move in 2019, we know real estate. We’d love to chat!
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Winter in Ottawa
Festivals and Events to Keep You Busy This Season
Winter may seem like the perfect season to curl up on the couch and binge-watch your favourite Netflix series, but that would also mean missing out on a multitude of engaging and culturally diverse activities in the Ottawa and surrounding area. Read below for a highlight of this years winter events and festival lineup; before you know it, you will ...

Holiday Showings?
If your home is currently on the market, or you plan on listing in the next few weeks, here are some things to consider when it comes to showings. The Ottawa real estate market is still quite active this year so you want to ensure that you put your best foot forward for potential buyers. Embrace the season and work closely with your Realtor to get your home sold!
Holiday buyers tend to be serious ...

As Markets Across Canada are cooling, the Ottawa Real Estate Market Remains Strong & Steady
The Latest Ottawa Real Estate Trends – November 2018
While most markets across Canada are cooling, Ottawa’s market performance is strong and steady as it has been for many years. Ottawa’s housing affordability and high employment levels shelter us somewhat from the dramatic swings that can cause instability. Sales were down 5.4% from November 2019, however experts say that wouldnR...

Keep Jack Frost Out and the Heat In
How to minimize your heating costs this winter
As frosty temperatures fill the air, and snow begins to cover the ground, there is a lot to think about when it comes to your heating bill. As the cost of heating your home rises in the colder months, it’s time to think about what you can do within your home to reduce some of these costs. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you to reduce the c...

Cannabis Legalization: One Month Later.
It has been just over a month since cannabis was legalized in Canada. Now that the hype and excitement surrounding the ability to buy recreational marijuana legally has settled, many of us are still left with questions surrounding these new laws and what this means for home owners, buyers, and sellers alike. Here is what you need to know about cannabis legalization and real estate in Ottawa:
Home...

Holidays on a Budget: A Financially Friendly Guide to “Decking the Halls”
The holidays are just around the corner, and we will soon be covered in a blanket of snow, with marching bands leading parades, and Santa’s village bringing long lines to the malls. While the excitement builds up, we are often left wondering how we can possibly save money or limit our spending without compromising the spirit of the season. With just a few practical tips and tricks, embracing...

Getting Ready to Sell Your Home in Winter: What You Need to Know
Selling your home in the winter real estate market may seem undesirable to some, but it has an upside. Let’s break down some of the advantages that actually make the cold dreary season a potential win for sellers.
Ottawa is in a Seller’s Market.
Regardless of the weather, listings that are on the market are getting the attention of buyers, there is just not enough inventory to keep up with the d...

Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot October 2018
Highlights from the Ottawa Real Estate Board’s Latest News Release
read full story
Halloween has not Scared Away Home Buyers
“October’s sales are truly indicative of the fast-paced market we have experienced for much of 2018,” points out Ottawa Real Estate Board President, Ralph Shaw. “In some pockets of the city, listings are not lingering on the market. Year-to-date average Days on Market ...

Home Renovations with a Great Return on Investment
Home Renovations with a Great Return on Investment
Even if you love your space, at one point or another, most homeowners have thought about making changes…“I love our kitchen, but what if we added an island?” or “our ensuite bathroom is great, but I’d love double sinks” or even “our basement is so spacious, I wonder what it would look like finished”. If this sounds familiar read on!
“When we decid...

Fall Furnace Tune-Up
Fall Furnace Tune-Up
As much as we may hate to admit it, fall is here. As the days get shorter and the air gets colder, the time of year when we switch from cooling our homes to heating them is upon us. However, before you switch your furnace on and start getting your winter blankets out of storage, it is wise to perform a routine inspection and maintenance of your furnace. You don’t want somethin...
Autumn Leaves are Falling; Home Prices are Not…
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,393 residential properties in September through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service System, compared with 1,383 in September 2017, an increase of only 0.7 percent. The five-year average for September sales is 1,303. September’s sales included 1,046 in the residential property class, a decrease of 2.5 percent from a year ago, and 347 in th...

Readying Your Family for an Emergency
Readying Your Family for an Emergency
September 21st, 2018 is a day our community won’t soon forget. The stories we’ve heard from those affected by the tornadoes that touched down in the City of Ottawa-Gatineau were nothing short from terrifying; the photos we’ve seen from the storm’s aftermath have been undeniably bone-chilling. It has been a devastating reality that the residents of our nation’s...

"Autumn Leaves are Falling; Home Prices are Not" | Ottawa Real Estate: Market Snapshot September 2018
Notable numbers in Ottawa: Market Snapshot September 2018
Have questions? Looking for specific neighbourhood stats? Message us, we’d love to help! Info@teamrealty.ca
October 3, 2018 via the Ottawa Real Estate Board
“We continue to experience supply-side issues going into our fall market. The fact is, the number of residential sales would be much higher had we more robust inventory to draw from,” ...

What You Need to Know Before Listing your Home in the Fall
Listing your home in the Fall; tips for selling your home in the Autumn months
With this summer’s (extreme) heat behind us, and with nothing but clear skies and crisp fall months ahead! We often hear sellers say “We’ll wait until Spring to list”, but as HGTV’s expert Scott MacGillivray outlines in this recent blog, there are some great benefits of selling your house in th...

Neighbourhood Snapshot: Kemptville “Green and Growing”
Life in Kemptville “Green and Growing”
Kemptville, in the municipality of North Grenville, is one of the Ottawa areas blooming communities, fitting of the “Green and Growing” slogan! Offering a welcoming community, great schools, hospital, golf course, retirement residences, business opportunities, and an easy commute to Ottawa, its steadily growing popularity is no surprise!
An easy 30-minute com...

Protecting Your Home from Critters
As the cooler weather starts to roll in, we are all thinking of cozying up indoors and unfortunately our furry friends outside are also thinking the same. Wild animals are currently looking for warm spaces to call home for the winter months and unfortunately our homes can be an attractive target. When animals get into a home, the damage can be severe and costly to fix but fortunately, with some ca...

Frolic into Fall: Fall Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Getting ready for fall and winter can sound like a chore. However with a few simple tips and tricks, getting it done can be quick and will pay off, big time for homeowners. The most important aspect of getting ready is that all of the appropriate maintenance has been performed to keep your home in top shape before the snow flies.
There are a few major things to remember when it comes to cold wea...
Summer Ends, Active Real Estate Market Continues…
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,586 residential properties in August through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service System, compared with 1,535 in August 2017, an increase of 3.3 percent. The five-year average for August sales in 1,417. August’s sales included 1,188 in the residential property class, relatively unchanged from a year ago, and 398 in the condominium property...

August 2018 Notable Numbers in Ottawa Real Estate
Ottawa Real Estate: Market Snapshot August 2018
We continue to see a healthy real estate market in Ottawa, with inventory levels are improving but still lower than we’ve seen in previous years. Have questions? Looking for specific neighbourhood stats? Message us, we’d love to help! Info@teamrealty.ca
Summer Ends, Active Real Estate Market Continues…
September 6, 2018
Ottawa Real...

We appear to have a problem:The need to disclose known defects when selling your home
Every home has its’ own unique quirks and character, however, when it comes to purchasing said home, it is important that buyers are aware of any “quirks” that may actually be deficiencies. A deficiency in a home known to the seller is required to be disclosed to the buyer by law, ensuring that any future damage/repair costs cannot be something that the seller becomes liable for.
When it comes to ...
Make Your Condo Balcony a Selling-Point
In the condo market, a well-maintained balcony with a stellar view can be a powerful tool to attract potential buyers. While the low-maintenance aspect of condo living is appealing, many condo dwellers still want a private outdoor space to enjoy. Even a small balcony off the living room or bedroom, decorated with care and style, can extend the living space of your condo, increase your enjoyment of...
A Sizzling Summer for Ottawa Real Estate
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,614 residential properties in July through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service System, compared with 1,524 in July 2017, an increase of 5.9 percent. The five-year average for July sales is 1,501. July’s sales included 1,238 in the residential property class, an increase of 3.6 percent from July 2017 and 376 in the condominium property cla...

Reverse Mortgages: What to consider when considering a reverse mortgage
Reverse Mortgages
What to consider when considering a reverse mortgage…
Reverse mortgages allow homeowners to use the equity in their home as a loan, it’s a financial strategy that is getting more common. This may be in part because a large segment of Canadian Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964) “is on strong financial footing and on a clear path to being mortgage-free, if not...

July 2018 in Ottawa Real Estate: Market Snapshot
July 2018 in Ottawa Real Estate: Market Snapshot
Ottawa Real Estate Market Snapshot: July 2018: We continue to see a healthy real estate market in Ottawa, with inventory levels are improving. Have questions? Looking for specific neighbourhood stats? Message us, we’d love to help!!
A Sizzling Summer for Ottawa Real Estate [posted by the Ottawa Real Estate Board]
Augus...

The Search Is On – Listings: How the majority of buyers & sellers find listings in 2018
As the age of technology and the Internet continues to thrive, many industries have developed over the years to incorporate the constantly changing world of advertising and reaching potential clientele. Long gone are the days of people driving around on the weekends in search of potential listings, and fewer are checking the paper in search of their potential dream home. Despite these changes, the...

Neighbourhood Snapshot: Exploring Almonte
Under 30 minutes to Ottawa, Almonte is an Area Home Buyers Should Consider
Most of us have heard the Mark Twain quote “Buy land, they’ve stopped making it”, there’s no doubt that investing in real estate is a great way to build equity. As prices in the urban centres creep up, more Ottawa buyers are purchasing condos as a way to get into real estate investment. We saw a...
The Pros and Cons of Condo Living
The condominium market is expected to see continued steady growth in most Canadian real estate markets this year. Demand for condos tends to be driven by young professionals, interested in living and working in the downtown core of an urban center, and retiring baby boomers, looking to downsize to a lower-maintenance home, convenient to amenities. Is condo living right for you? There are a number ...

Listed, Viewed, Sold! Steps in the home selling process
Listed, Viewed, Sold! Steps in the home selling process
Selling your home is a big task, and an important one to pay critical attention to – as your house is typically your biggest asset. Ensuring that you’re ready to start this journey is key, and being as prepared as possible can ensure your house is sold for its’ top value. There are many important steps along the way when it comes to selling...
Neighbourhood Spotlight: Kanata
Kanata is one of Ottawa’s largest suburban areas, but with a growing population and a bustling economic and cultural life, it is far from a sleepy bedroom community. Comprised of more than a dozen neighbourhoods spread over some thirty square miles, Kanata is home to many of the region’s major hi-tech employers and a variety of large recreational and cultural institutions, making it an...
Choosing a Realtor That’s Right for You
Choosing a Realtor That’s Right for You
When it comes time for you to buy or sell your home, you’ll want to be sure that you have the guidance and support necessary for you to make a decision you’re most comfortable with. With that said, finding the right Realtor is just as (if not more) important as finding the right home. We know that by choosing Royal LePage Team Realty you are trusting us to e...
Choosing Art for Your Home
Your house starts to become your home on moving day, when you begin to arrange furniture, unpack boxes, and make choices about how to make the space your own. Artwork and personal mementos can be among the most important items to make a new home feel cozy and familiar. But for some of us, figuring out how to personalize a place with artistic touches can be a challenge. Here are a few tips on how t...
Condo Sales Keep Market from Over Heating
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 2,070 residential properties in June through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service System, compared with 2,163 in June 2017, a decrease of 4.3 percent. The five-year average for June sales is 1,914. June’s sales included 455 in the condominium property class, an increase of 11.5 percent from June 2017 and 1,615 in the residential property cla...