Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, you may be wondering about the best time of year to do it. While conventional wisdom says that spring is ideal, that’s not always the case. There are actually some major advantages to putting your home on the market during the summer. With a bit of planning, selling during the hottest months can make for a quick, profitable, and low-stress experience.

If you’re trying to decide when to sell your home, here are five reasons to consider the summer…

1) It’s a great time for curb appeal

No doubt about it: homes tend to show well in the summer. The grass is green, the sky is blue, and the sun is lighting up every inch of your property. It all makes for fantastic curb appeal—which is important, since buyers will be greeted by your home’s exterior before they ever step inside. To make a great first impression, focus on your front lawn and entranceway. Care for your grass, tend to your shrubs, and add extra visual appeal with summer flowers.

2) The weather is great for renovations

Most properties require some small improvements before they can go on the market. Whether your power washing your front steps or replacing your siding, you’re bound to spend some of your home-prep time outdoors. Fortunately, warm summer weather will make your job easier and more enjoyable. As a bonus, the bright sunlight will help you get the best possible view of your work—which means you can really focus on the details.

3) People are outside

While it’s true that most buyers are looking at listings online, you shouldn’t forget about appealing to pedestrians. A beautiful, well-tended home with a “for sale” sign out front is bound to attract attention—especially when the weather is nice. Whether it’s a neighbourhood couple jogging or a family out for a weekend bike ride, the people who will ultimately buy your home might just notice it while they’re enjoying the summer sun.

4) Buyers are in the market

One of the best reasons to put your home on the market in the summer is because there are a lot of buyers out looking. Many people take time off from work during these months, which makes it a great period for them to attend showings and focus on making a major purchase. Summer is also an ideal time for families to move, since the kids are on break and many parents would like to settle into a new place before school starts up again.

5) You may have more time

There’s a good chance that you’ll be taking at least some of your vacation days during the summer. In addition to enjoying the gorgeous weather, you can use this time to find a great real estate professional, prepare your home for the market, and consider the details of any offers you receive. There’s no doubt that selling a property can be complicated. The good news is, if you set aside the time to do it right (and accept the guidance of an experienced agent), you’ll be well positioned to make a successful summer sale.

Getting ready to sell your house? Reach out today to learn how we can help you prepare your property for the market—and get the best return possible!

Are you ready to buy a home for the first time? If so, there are a few things you should know. While finding the perfect place to live is a rewarding experience, it can also be complicated. From obtaining a mortgage to setting a price range to hammering out your agreement with a seller, getting the process right is the key to success. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to help ensure a great outcome.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, here are five ways you can prepare for one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make…

1) Obtain pre-approval

First things first: if you’re going to need financing, you should get pre-approved for a mortgage. During this process, a lender will look closely at your financial history and current circumstances. They’ll use this information to figure out how much you’re likely to receive in financing. Many first-time buyers don’t see the point in getting pre-approved, but it’s a crucial step in the purchase process. It tells sellers that a lender has vetted you, and that you’ll likely have the necessary funds to make it to closing.

2) Budget carefully

Most buyers are aware that they should start off the home hunt by setting a reasonable price range. After all, knowing what you can afford—and what you can’t—can prevent a lot of headaches and wasted time. Start by performing a few calculations to determine what type of home (and monthly mortgage payments) you can fit into your budget. The biggest mistake that many first-timers make is underestimating the costs of homeownership. From insurance to taxes to larger utility bills, the expenses can add up quickly—so be conservative when you’re budgeting.

3) Know your neighbourhoods

When you’re searching for your first home, it helps to know exactly what you’re looking for. Start by researching neighbourhoods. Consider a variety of factors that matter to you, from price points to local schools and green spaces to transit options. When you’re narrowing down your list of areas, try to be open-minded. While most home buyers have a few ideas of where they’d like to live, they’re often surprised to learn that communities they’ve never considered before are a perfect fit.

4) Understand closing costs

From a financial perspective, the road to closing is less stressful when you know what to expect. There are a number of costs you’ll pay at the end of your purchase, though these differ from one transaction to the next. In almost all cases, the most significant one will be land transfer taxes. The amount you pay will be calculated as a percentage of the overall price of your home (typically between 1 per cent and 2.5 per cent). You’ll also have to pay legal costs, along with an assortment of others that may include inspection and appraisal fees.

5) Work with the right agent

When you’re buying your first home, your real estate agent should act as your guide. From helping you find properties that meet your needs to making sure your i’s are dotted and your t’s are crossed, a knowledgeable professional will help at every step. If you’re thinking of working with a particular agent, make sure you understand their approach. Ask about their track record, what sets them apart, and whether they’ve worked with first-time buyers before.

Purchasing your first home is a big step toward securing your future. By making sure you’re as prepared as possible, you can set yourself up to make an informed decision—and a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.

Preparing to buy a home? From starting your search to making a highly-appealing offer, we can help at every step. Get in touch to learn more about the process!

Are you looking for the perfect family-friendly neighbourhood? From local schools to nearby recreational opportunities, there are many factors that determine whether a community is a great place to raise your kids. For many families, attractive, multi-functional green space is high up on the list. Whether you’re planning a hike, setting up an afternoon picnic, or just hoping to find a jungle gym your little ones can crawl around on, you’ll find plenty of fantastic options in and around our city.

From friendly neighbourhood parks to large conservation areas, here are five of the best green spaces in Vaughan…

1) Concord Thornhill Regional Park

While it’s well known for its off-leash dog area, Concord Thornhill Regional Park has a little bit of something for everyone. Its trails, ponds, and gardens make this a great place for nature lovers, while the playground is perfect if you have little ones. That said, one of the best things about this charming park is a recent addition. In 2013, a FIFA-standard artificial turf soccer field was unveiled. Funded by the city, community organizations, and a monetary prize awarded by BMO to the Glen Shields Sun Devils, the field is a true labour of love. It’s this type of local spirit that makes Vaughan such an incredible place to live!

2) Marita Payne Park

The top-notch amenities at Marita Payne Park include playgrounds, baseball fields, tennis courts, and even an area set up for skateboarders. If you’re a fan of nature strolls, you’re in luck. There’s a 2.5 km paved stretch that goes through Marita Payne and Glen Shields Parks, as well as part of the Bartley Smith Greenway. This is an easy, well-lit walk, making it a great option if you have kids. If you’re a Glen Shields resident looking for some outdoor fun, round up the family and head to Marita Payne Park!

3) Kingsview Park

Are you looking for a quaint community green space in Woodbridge? If so, check out Kingsview Park. With a stimulating playground that features a climbing structure, several slides, and a whole lot of sand to play in, this is a great place to visit during the day if you have young children. You’ll also find a basketball court and small soccer field. These features make Kingsview Park as great for older kids as it is for little ones. Put simply, Woodbridge families will love this clean, well-cared-for green space.

4) Boyd Conservation Area

Boyd Conservation Area is a place where Vaughan residents can enjoy the splendour of nature. This green space features 7 km of gorgeous walking trails that wind through the Don River Valley. It’s also the ideal place to relax with some barbeque or a packed lunch. Whether you want to set up something small and impromptu, or a large family gathering, the picnic sites at the Boyd Conservation Area can accommodate you. While you’re eating, enjoy some scenic views of the water—or do some bird watching once you’re done your meal.

5) Kortright Centre for Conservation

Without a doubt, Kortright Centre for Conservation is one of the most majestic sites in Vaughan. Located in Woodbridge, this sprawling, 325-hectare area is truly pristine. Kortright is dedicated in large part to habitat preservation, and the grounds are home to both gorgeous gardens and a beehive observation area. You should also check out the 1.6-km Innovation Trail, which features displays of renewable energy technology. If you want to have a learning experience with your family while you enjoy the great outdoors, this is the place to visit.

Do you remember the feeling you got the first time you saw your house? Were you excited? Full of anticipation? If you’re like most buyers, you were probably attracted to your home’s exterior before you even set foot inside. Now that you’re getting ready to sell, it’s time to ensure that the home hunters who drop by for a tour get that same feeling—and the best way to do that is by boosting your curb appeal.

Fortunately, making the exterior of your house stand out doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. With a few simple improvements, you can grab the interest of more buyers and start paving the way toward a successful sale.

If you’re about to put your home on the market, try these six quick tips to boost your curb appeal…

1) Add planters

Whether they contain lively greenery or colourful flowers, planters can add instant curb appeal to your home. Carefully-tended vegetation doesn’t just look gorgeous. It also sends the message that your home is well cared-for. There are a few things to consider when you’re browsing your local gardening store. Choose plants that are in season, and think about how they’ll look in your entranceway. Remember that planters of different sizes can add a lot of visual interest to your home!

2) Repaint your front door

Speaking of the entrance to your home, a quick way to refresh your front door is by giving it a new coat of paint. While you can always stick with the colour you’ve used in the past, opting for a more eye-catching hue could make your property more memorable. From cobalt blue to sunshine orange, a vibrant shade that complements your home can really pop—and invite buyers to see what else is in store.

3) Rent a power washer

You’d be amazed at how much old dirt and mildew has almost certainly accumulated around the outside of your home. Fortunately, there’s a cost-effective solution. Pressure washers use highly-concentrated streams of water to lift grime from external surfaces—like your patio, your front steps, and the walkway leading up to your property. You can rent these machines from many home improvement stores at affordable rates. Just one word of warning: pressure washing can damage some surfaces, so be sure to do your homework!

4) Consider using mulch

When you’re creating spring or summer curb appeal, an attractive lawn is crucial. Dead, discoloured, and unkempt grass is a major turnoff for buyers—and it can lead to the assumption that your property hasn’t been properly maintained. One thing many sellers struggle with is sparse patches in their yards. Depending on the placement of these areas, mulch may be the answer. We recommend bark or wood chips—especially cedar, which has a rich colour and pleasant scent.

5) Replace your light fixtures

Your porch lights can contribute to the great first impression your home makes on buyers. From wall sconces to hanging lanterns, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. But whatever style you decide on, make sure it has a simple, modern look. If you’re holding showings around dusk, don’t forget to flip those lights on to welcome buyers—and make it easier for them to find your home.

6) Get a new welcome mat

It’s an incredibly simple way to make your front door look a little bit more polished. If your welcome mat is less than welcoming, replace it with a new one. Whether it’s faded or encrusted with mud, this is the perfect time to toss out that eyesore. Other front-door items that tend to get worn-out include mailboxes and address numbers. That’s why it pays to be as objective as possible when you give your front door the once-over.

Put simply, boosting your curb appeal doesn’t have to be a major pain. With a bit of forethought and a relatively modest budget, you can help ensure that more buyers fall in love with your home at first sight!

Preparing to sell your house? Reach out today to learn how we can help you prepare your property for the market—and get the best return possible!

Few feelings compare to the one you get when you find the house of your dreams. It’s the moment when the time you’ve spent pouring over listings and attending home viewings finally starts to pay off. While you’re certainly entitled to celebrate at this stage, remember that you don’t own your ideal property just yet. Now is the time to secure your new home by impressing the seller with a truly irresistible offer.

To start, there are 6 parts to a home-purchasing offer that you should know:

• Price – Depending on the local market conditions and information provided by your Real Estate Professional, the price you offer may be different from the seller’s price.

• Deposit – Your deposit shows good faith and will be applied against the purchase of the home when the sale closes. Your Real Estate Professional can advise you on an appropriate amount.

• Terms – Includes the total price offered and the financing details. You arrange your own financing or ask to assume the seller’s mortgage, especially if it has an attractive interest rate.

• Conditions – These might include “subject to home inspection”, “subject to you obtaining financing”, or “subject to you selling your property”.

• Inclusions & Exclusions – These might include appliances and certain fixtures or decorative items, such as window coverings or mirrors. These items would remain in the house.

• Closing or Possession Date – Generally, the day the title of the property is legally transferred and the transaction of funds finalized

Furthermore, an offer can be “firm”, meaning without conditions, or “conditional” if it is subject to some of the conditions mentioned above. After that, an offer can be accepted, rejected, or met with a counter-offer. The counter-offer may be in reference to the price, closing date, or any number of variables. Offers can go back and forth until both parties have agreed to terms or either side ends the negotiations.  

If you’re planning to put in an offer on a property in the near future, here are a few tips for making sure it stands out…

How to Make a Strong Offer on a Home: 

Get pre-approved

Chances are, you’ll need to obtain financing before you can make your home purchase. We suggest starting the process early on by obtaining a pre-approval letter—and including it in your offer once you find that perfect home. When a lender pre-approves you, they look closely at your financial situation and determine how much financing you’re likely to receive. Knowing that you’ve gone through this process instills sellers with a sense of confidence, which could further encourage them to accept your offer if it’s attractive.

Consider making your highest bid first

During the home-buying process, negotiations can help you lock down the best deal possible. That said, buyers don’t always get the chance to negotiate. If you’ve opted to put in an offer on an in-demand property, you may want to consider making your highest bid first. In our experience, sellers with several lucrative options will often choose the best one right off the bat—and avoid going back-and-forth with buyers. If you find yourself in a potential multiple offer scenario, your agent can help you assess the situation and come up with the right offer strategy.

Be flexible

There’s no doubt that money talks. Having said that, some sellers are just as interested in making a no-muss, no fuss sale as they are in taking home some extra cash. For this reason, upping the convenience factor can make your offer a lot more attractive. If possible, be flexible about your timeline. Whether a seller needs to relocate in a hurry or wants to take their time, your willingness to help make it happen could be one of the keys to having your offer accepted.

Form a connection

It’s one of the most overlooked tools in a home buyer’s toolbox: the offer letter. The truth is, most people would prefer to deal with a buyer who they feel some sort of connection with. Your offer letter is an opportunity to remind sellers of any common ground you might have (whether it’s a love of rescue animals or a favourite hockey team). Even more importantly, it’s a chance to tell them why their house is your dream home—and how you plan to take good care of it. While letters don’t always hold a lot of sway, they can in the right situation. If you choose to write one, be friendly, genuine, and concise.

Remove unnecessary contingencies

Contingencies are events that must occur before a deal can be considered complete. For example, including a financing contingency in your contract will allow you to get out of a home purchase if your mortgage falls through. While these stipulations can protect buyers, sellers often see them as annoying obstacles to a smooth sale. As a result, forgoing them can make your offer far more appealing than it otherwise would be. Just be sure to consult with your agent before going this route—they’ll look at your circumstances and ensure that you’re not exposing yourself to undue risk.

Preparing to buy a home? From starting your search to making a highly-appealing offer, we can help at every step. Get in touch to learn more about the process!

Do you need to sell your home quickly? Many sellers find themselves in a situation where time is of the essence. Maybe you have to relocate for work, or to be closer to family. Perhaps you simply can’t wait to start the next chapter of your life. Whatever your reason for needing to sell your home in a hurry, there are steps you can take to help expedite the process.

If you’re looking to shorten your selling timeline, try our top five tips for a quick and convenient home sale…

1) Target your most likely buyer

Not every home buyer has the same needs and preferences. That’s why it pays to use a targeted approach. Knowing who’s most likely to purchase your home (whether it’s a growing family, a young professional, or a downsizer) allows you to appeal to them directly through your listing and other marketing efforts. Targeting these efforts is important, because serious buyers always have their eyes peeled for newly-listed homes that match their criteria. When yours pops up and it’s a perfect march, they’re bound to get in touch with you—quickly. Put simply, knowing who’s most likely to purchase your home can help you generate more interest, in less time.

2) Make your home shine

One of the best ways to speed up your sale is to ensure that your home appeals to serious buyers—those who are close to the decision-making stage. These are the home hunters who will pour over online listings, set up multiple viewings, and closely compare all of the properties they look at. If you want your property to stand out during the process, it has to be in peak condition. Start with a deep cleaning. Home buyers will examine every nook and cranny, so it pays to be thorough. Next up, work with a stager to ensure that your home looks its best. A professional will know how to use paint, furniture, and decor to create an elegant environment that appeals to the largest pool of buyers possible.

3) Use great photos

Once your home is in tip-top shape, it’s time to show it off. Your listing is the first place most home hunters will see your living space. The majority of those who view it will decide whether or not to set up a viewing based on the accompanying photos. If you want to get more buyers through the door (and potentially find the right one in less time), make sure you use the highest-quality images in your listing and marketing materials. The only way to do that is to work with a professional photographer—someone who knows how to use lighting, angles, and perspective to make your home stand out.

4) Ramp up your curb appeal

When you’re looking to sell your home quickly, you want to do everything you can to get buyers through the door. That means making sure that the outside of your house is just as appealing as the inside. In the warmer months, pay close attention to your landscaping. Ensure that your lawn is healthy and carefully-trimmed during showing periods. Don’t forget about the details. From a fresh welcome mat to seasonal flowers, the little things can make a big difference in the eyes of home buyers!

5) Work with the right agent

First and foremost, partner with a great local agent. The right real estate professional can help you prepare, stage, and market your home to your most likely buyer. They’ll have the neighbourhood expertise, market knowledge, and industry connections to help you make a speedy sale—whatever the steps required. Start by finding a team you can trust. You should feel comfortable asking as many questions as you need to. Remember, even though you want to make a sale quickly, you’re still dealing with your biggest asset!

Ready to sell your home in Vaughan? Get in touch—we’d love to help you make a quick, convenient sale!
Call us at 416-571-2724  or E-mail info@arciteam.com

There are die-hard Torontonians out there who will insist that you have to go to Canada’s largest city to find a great meal. In Vaughan, we know that’s not true. There are so many reasons to love living here, from our gorgeous green spaces to our top-notch transit. But one thing that frequently gets overlooked is our fantastic local restaurants. From upscale Italian to delicious, no-frills Chinese, you’ll find exactly what you’re in the mood for in our fair city.

Whether you’re moving to Vaughan or you just want to check out our food scene, here are five can’t-miss local eateries…

1) Vivo Pizza and Pasta

If you’re in Woodbridge, you have to check out Vivo Pizza and Pasta. This successful Italian chain has several locations across southern Ontario, and it’s easy to see why. The prices are affordable, the environment is relaxed, and (most importantly) the food is fantastic. Though you really can’t go wrong at Vivo, we suggest trying one of the classics—such as a margherita pizza or a plate of fettuccine alfredo. For dessert, the tiramisu is pure perfection. Part of the restaurant’s secret is its use of incredibly fresh ingredients—and trust us when we say, you’ll taste the difference.

2) Avenue Cibi E Vini

If you’re looking for some Italian food that’s a little more upscale, check out Avenue Cibi E Vini. This Kleinberg hotspot is a neighbourhood go-to for a memorable night out. Step inside, and the first thing you’ll notice is the restaurant’s elegant-yet-modern look. Open the wine list, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the selection in front of you. Of course, the food is the main attraction, and you’ll find no shortage of perfectly-prepared dishes here—from meat, fish, and seafood to handmade gnocchi and impeccably-fried eggplant. To find some vino that will pair well with your meal, ask the restaurant’s knowledgeable staff.

3) Ichiki Japanese & Thai

It’s rare for a restaurant to masterfully prepare the cuisine of not one but two cultures. Fortunately for diners in Vaughan, Ichiki does it consistently. The Japanese and Thai dishes at this Woodbridge gem are fresh, colourful, and bursting with flavour. From delicate ramen to savoury pad Thai, you’ll find all of the classics here—along with some highly-inventive options, like sushi pizza. In addition to the food, Ichiki stands out for the ambiance it provides. The exposed brick and ductwork gives the space a modern feel, while the delightfully-mismatched upholstery adds to its coziness. 

4) 9baci

There’s no shortage of phenomenal Italian restaurants in Vaughan, and they’re spread across the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. If you live in Maple (or you find yourself in the area one night), consider 9baci your go-to spot for Italian staples. Located on Keele Street, this stylish eatery serves up a mouth-watering selection of antipasti, along with carefully-crafted pizzas and pastas. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a dinner that will leave you feeling comfortably full, 9baci delivers. Whatever time you decide to go, consider ending off your meal with an espresso!

5) Memphis BBQ & Wicked Wings

If you’re a fan of Southern BBQ, it’s time you discovered your new favourite eatery in Vaughan. From its delicious signature sauces to its stripped-down decor, Memphis BBQ & Wings is all about authenticity. More importantly, it does the classics—including pulled pork, saucy chicken, baked beans, and cornbread—the right way. Located on Islington Avenue, this little smokehouse is easy to miss. That said, you should make a point to stop in. Take a load off inside the restaurant, or grab something from the takeaway counter to enjoy at home. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!

Thinking of making Vaughan home? We know the city inside and out—from its top-notch restaurants to the selection of homes on the market. Get in touch to start a conversation about your needs today!