Happy 2005

Every January brings a new list of goals for the New Year. We each have our own (often recurring!) goals - usually including variations of improved health, fitness, finances, relationships, career and travel. Whatever else is on your list, I would like to recommend one goal to include: to be in a home you love, in a place that feels like home and that supports your lifestyle. Whether that means making improvements to the house or condo you're in (there's always something!) or finding a new one, living in the right place - and neighbourhood - gives you a foundation for reaching all of your other goals. So make an honest assessment of where you are. If you are happy with your current home, you can be proud. Just stay on top of upkeep and updates - even the ideal home needs ongoing care. And if you're thinking about a change of address, call me to help you look at your options. After all, there's no place like home.

Thank you all for helping me to have a great year in 2004. I wish each of you a home filled with happiness in 2005!

The official numbers are still to come, but 2004 was definitely a record year:

Toronto Resale Market Exceeds 80,000 Sales

TORONTO - December 15, 2004 - For the first time in its 84 year history, the Toronto Real Estate Board has seen more than 80,000 transactions through its Multiple Listing Service in a single year.

TREB President Ron Abraham says 2004 will go down in history as a banner year. "Sales have surpassed the previous all time high of 78,898 set in 2003 and we should end the year with approximately 83,000 transactions. There is no question that real estate is the engine driving today's economy."

With more than 2,200 transactions thus far in December, sales are tracking 10 per cent ahead of December 2003.

"The Bank of Canada's recent decision to hold steady on interest rates bodes well for the 2005 real estate market. The historically low rates we are enjoying have been a key contributor to the market's strength." said Mr. Abraham.

Mr. Abraham cautions however that other factors like property taxes and the provincial government's proposed greenbelt plan could impact affordability in the year ahead.

"We will continue to lobby on behalf of our REALTOR Members to help the Greater Toronto Area's home buying and selling public realize their future home ownership goals."

"We are confident that we are headed into another strong year for real estate in 2005."

(Source: The Toronto Real Estate Board)

2005 Promises Another Good Year for Buyers and Sellers

There are various predictions about the Toronto real estate market and whichever one is true, 2005 promises to be another good year. My advice if you're looking to buy or sell in 2005 is pretty much the same as in any year: do your homework, think long-term and proceed with confidence. And call me.

Check out the new TorontoMoves.ca!

With the start of the New Year I am happy to announce a new generation of www.TorontoMoves.ca. Some of the new features include a Toronto Moves custom Moving Checklist, an Address Change Checklist and a helpful Six Steps for Buyers. You can also see archived Newsletters for reference. We will be updating the site on an ongoing basis so be sure to check in regularly.

Salt reduction - not just for your diet!

Salt is commonly used on steps and sidewalks on icy days, but unfortunately it's highly corrosive on concrete. Look for alternative products such as Nu-Gro's Alaskan® Ice Melter that contain Calcium Magnesium Acetate, Magnesium Chloride, or Calcium Chloride. Such products cost more than regular salt, but are cheaper than replacing your steps or sidewalk; they're also faster-acting and more effective. Note: In a pinch, go ahead and use salt - safety first, always!

Fundraising Event - Saturday, April 16, 2005 - There's No Place Like Home

Mark the evening of Saturday, April 16, 2005 in your calendar to attend "There's No Place Like Home", an annual fundraising event for Trinity Home Hospice. Trinity Home Hospice (www.thh.on.ca) is an amazing Toronto not-for-profit organization that offers skilled volunteer care to terminally ill people, including those with cancer, AIDS and ALS, who choose to die in the comfort their own homes. The April 16 fundraiser will take place at St. Lawrence Hall, 155 King Street E. (a gorgeous under-known historic site run by the City of Toronto - worth the price of admission just to see the venue), and will include refreshments, entertainment and a silent auction. Tickets are $100 each. For tickets, to sponsor the event or contribute an item to the silent auction please contact Trinity volunteer Sara Brown Crowder at sara@torontomoves.ca.

Sending Support to Southeast Asia

We have all been deeply moved by the reports of the massive devastation following the tsunamis in southeast Asia. I don't think any of us can imagine what it is like for those people affected, or for those working in the relief efforts. Beyond what our governments are doing to help, let's all contribute what we can. You can donate on-line at www.redcross.ca or through other reliable channels.

Vacationing as a Form of Altruism

With the images of the tsunamis fresh in our minds, the notion of heading off on a beach vacation may feel a bit strange. However, by traveling and vacationing we are helping those who depend on tourism for their livelihood. People are already saying that one of the keys to recovery in parts of southeast Asia will be the return of tourists. So, if you're heading for island or coastal sun this season, enjoy knowing that your vacation dollars are helping someone to earn a living - and donate to tsunami relief before you go.

January is a good month for "cocooning" so you might just want to stay in, get organized, do Pilates and get a jump on your 2004 taxes. But just in case you want to get out and about, here are a couple of temptations in Toronto this month:

Metro Home Show - Ideas for City Living - Metro Toronto Convention Centre
January 20, 2005 To January 23, 2005
If you're planning home improvements any time soon, the Metro Home Show is a great place to find ideas and resources. Aimed directly at urbanites, this show is an efficient way to make sure you're up-to-date on the latest trends. www.metrohomeshow.com

WinterCity and Winterlicious - various locations across the city
January 28, 2005 To February 10, 2005
The second annual WinterCity is a 14-day city-wide celebration of Toronto's culture, creativity, cuisine and diversity of spirit. There's some spectacular free outdoor entertainment at Nathan Phillips Square as well as many cultural events. Check the schedule - it's quite impressive. Included in the celebration is Winterlicious when 120 of Toronto's finest restaurants offer a special prix fixe menu for lunch ($10 or $20) and dinner ($20 or $30). Reservations are essential - see the list of restaurants on the web site. Reservations will be taken as of January 13 (January 11 & 12 for American Express cardholders). Be sure to reserve early as places fill up quickly. www.toronto.ca/special_events

Thank you for your feedback!
Thanks so much for all of your positive comments about this newsletter – it’s great to know you’re enjoying it. If there is anything you would like to see in future issues, please send along your suggestions and ideas.

Know someone on the move?
If you know someone who is looking to buy or sell a house or condominium in Toronto, please have them call me, or let me know and I will contact them with your introduction. Most of my clients come through referrals from people like you! Thank you for your confidence!