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"How To" series - Toronto realtor Mary Crawford '82 |
TRENT CONTENTS Proposed Change, Change ... and Debate Association President's Message Topping the Competitive Recruitment Environment The Interactive Learning Centre Profile of a Volunteer: Roy O'Brien '75 "How To" series Toronto realtor Mary Crawford '82 Collections and Obsessions : Jim Doran's Various Vinyl |
Mary Crawford is a real estate sales representative with Coldwell Banker Pinnacle Real Estate in their Central Toronto office. She has been a sales representative for over 10 years. Mary kindly shared with us what is happening in the real estate market and hints on the most effective way to work with a sales representative. Most of her comments are applicable for any reader, anywhere, but few are particular to Greater Toronto, Mary's market place. When asked about her style, Mary said "I have no magic wand nor inflated promises to make, simply a common sense approach and a thorough knowledge of the Toronto market." Mary said her motto is "super service not super stardom." Mary's comments: Did you know that the average Canadian moves every Þve years and that the market in Greater Toronto has increased 25%-35% since 1996? and in some neighbourhoods in Toronto the increase has been even more. Unlike the last boom in the late 1980s which was driven up by foreign investors, this market is internally driven (people moving to that larger home or empty nesters changing their lifestyle i.e. moving to a condo). Whether buying or selling for the Þrst or last time, to get the most from this investment (your largest debt or your nest egg), one should work with a trusted sales representative and disclose to them up front the reasons for moving, your wishes and desires. Then let them educate you on today's market conditions, and what is available based on your price. Only then can they tailor their work based on your best interests. If you rely on "open houses", ads, for Þnding your dream home you will:
This process of working with a trusted sales representative is especially helpful in today's market. With a low supply of houses on the market and houses selling in days, the competition is Þerce. One really has to know values when one will be competing with many buyers for the same property and in many cases having to go above the asking price. An example Mary gives is, a semi-detached three bedroom house in the Yonge and Lawrence area in Toronto that sold in 1996 for $275,000 is now selling for $310,000 to $330,000, but the asking price today would be $289,000 and there would be anywhere from Þve to ten offers. This scenario is not exclusive to this area or price range. People today are paying a premium for a home that is updated, in particular "invest in remodeling your kitchen and bathrooms. While enjoying them, you will also see your return when selling!" Remember a good sales representative wants you to be a repeat customer. Therefore, they will look after your interests beyond just making that deal! "Your search for a home should be an exciting and enjoyable time - have fun!" Please feel free to call Mary Crawford at Coldwell Banker Pinnacle Real Estate for any of your real estate questions or needs, she will gladly help you.
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