My goodness, how time flies!!  What a year, 2017, was for me!  So much going on and my blogs got pushed to the side.

The greatest news was that my son got married.  There was so much to prepare and this young couple took it upon themselves to do most of the work.  I thank them for that.  It sure was a lesson to them on what goes into the preparations.  Of course, my husband and I were there to help in all aspects but only when asked.  It went off without a hitch!  Or at least, nothing anyone noticed.  Beautiful ceremony, beautiful couple.  Now, they have started their new adventure together.  There are so many great things for them to experience.  Love them both and wishing them a lifetime of happiness.

I started out the year getting my husband to finally agree that it was time for us to downsize.  We never really had a huge home but it was enough for us.  The yard work was getting tedious as my husband loves to golf as much as he can and I work most weekends.  I have to admit, I was tired of climbing stairs.  We started by de-cluttering and what a task that became.  We cleaned it up and made sure the home was in tip top shape to get on the market.  We were very fortunate that we sold very quickly (such was the market last year before March 2017).  Then came the real work.  De-cluttering is not as easy as everyone
thinks it is.  We had been in that home for almost 30 years.  All our memories were there and boxes and boxes of 'stuff' that we were hanging on to for our kids.  We started one room at a time and donated/sold/threw out what we couldn't sell and donate.  The house got emptier by the week and when we finally found our future home we were able to start to bring what we were going to keep to the new place. Yes, we found a place to live before the old house closed.

Not having moved in such a long time I was more concerned about my husband adapting to the change.  Yes, we are in a condo.  Beautiful place.  We have everything on one floor and all the rooms that we need.  Size is perfect.  Lots of light.  Beautiful views.  Balcony to enjoy the summer breezes.  All amenities.  My windows get cleaned by someone else.  I just have to do the inside.  I don't have to shovel the driveway.  My car is not cold in the winter mornings.

It didn't take long, but hubby is now adapted to this lifestyle.  We both have said: "We should have done this a few years ago".  I have many clients, and friends, that I can now explain to them how easy this life can be.  Enjoy your life.  Once the kids have left, it is time for us to think a little bit of ourselves. 

This past winter as I drove around and watched older homeowners trying to shovel their driveways, I often wonder why they don't think about moving.  Yes, I still get out and help a few in my travels.      Also, having gone through this process, I can truly appreciate the anxiety many of you feel.  Let me help you alleviate some of the worry.  It's the best experience that I can offer to Buyers and Sellers.

Here I am in my home office (yes, my condo has an office space for me) and look out the window as I write this.  I can't believe it will be a year in another month that I sold the house.  And in April it will be a year that we are in our new home. 

There were a few very sad moments in my life, but everyone has those and I coped with them.  This is a happy blog.  No one can take the memories of 2017 away from me.  Life goes on!

Until next time! 

Betty
416 427 1875

Well, folks!  It's that time of year once again.  Summer 2017, such as it was, is coming to an end and we can get back to our regular routines that we put on the back burner while we enjoy summer vacations and backyard BBQ's, and patio parties.  As I drive around I see High School grads walking around smiling.  Their future is right in front of them and the doors are starting to open up.  I often wonder where are they going?
 
These young adults worked so hard for four/five years for this special moment.  We, as parents, must now let them fly.  We've instilled about as much knowledge about the world that we could.  Now, it's up to them.  If we could, we would like to have you closer to home so that if there is something we would help with, we don't have far to go.  But if they're too close, we won't let them 'figure' it out on their own.  If you decide to go further away from home for work or studies, open your wings and fly.  Know that you are loved and thought of every minute of every day.

These young people are the future. They are the ones that are willing to take chances. They are the ones that will be heads of companies and leaders of the world. As I look at them, I wonder - when did I get older.

I remember my daughter and son finishing elementary school. Then four years of secondary just flew by. It was like yesterday when I dropped my daughter off for first year university. The dorm room was 'cozy'. She had the basic necessities. She needed no more. She would tell me about the Friday nite movie nights - she was the only one in her quad with a small tv. Someone would bring the popcorn. Someone would bring the 'refreshments'. What a great group of co-ed roomies she had.  This is something I am now passing on to those who are getting ready to leave their nest.  My son stayed closer to home and commuted to University.

So, CONGRATULATIONS, to all who have passed through the hallowed halls of their post-secondary institutions. May I wish all of you the strength to face what is yet to come! Know that you have the support of your families to continue your journey. You can depend on the friendships that you have developed in these few short years.

Betty Bartusevicius
416 427 1875

Erindale Park in Mississauga

Erindale Park has been enjoyed by many since 1902. 

"The land was flooded and a dam was built to generate hydro electric power. The dam was

subsequently demolished in 1954 and the site was remediated by Ontario Hydro. Following this remediation, the river bed was straightened, widened and relocated to its present location closer to the north-west valley bank. This provided a large flat area which was used as a sanitary landfill between the years of 1961 and 1965.

Erindale Park is the largest park in the City (222.1 acres or 89.88 hectares) and features 5 picnic facility areas, 5 barbecues, 6 comfort stations, 1 playground equipment area, a lookout on the old dam and a toboggan hill. This park also offers walking trails, fishing, canoeing and spectacular views of the Credit River and tall ravines. The park is inviting to bird watchers, photographers and anyone at all who enjoys getting back to nature.

Another aspect of the park is the David J. Culham Trail, a pathway system through a heavily-forested area that provides spectacular views of the Credit River and trail ravines. The trail is particularly breathtaking in autumn, but has a special brand of peace and beauty that manifests itself throughout the year. This trail is perfect for hikers, joggers, cyclists and cross-country skiers. "

The above information was posted on the Mississauga Community pages.  I have lived in Mississauga for 29 years and have just known this park to be a great place to bring my children (as they were growing up) for bike rides and walking the trails.  The surrounding residential neighbourhoods are well known to all -  Sherwood Forrest, Sawmill Valley, Sheridan Homelands, Erin Mills, and Erindale.  These are the ones closest to the park.  Beautiful yards and homes surround Erindale Park boasting to be a family friendly and featuring great schools.

For further information regarding these neighbourhoods, feel free to connect with me at 416 427 1875 or email be at betty@bettybart.com and let's discuss your options.

Your Friendly Neighbourhood Realtor

Betty

Two Years Into My Journey

Yes, folks...it's been 2 full years of exercise, healthy eating, and positive thoughts.  The exercise has

not been difficult once I set a commitment.  The healthy eating has also been pretty easy.  I can now tell people that I really don't like pasta and sweets.  I don't eat junk or processed food.  Yes, there have been times when this was questioned.  Well, there have been times when I was hungry and I didn't pack something to eat while I worked that I stopped and got a bag of salted peanuts or even a sandwich.  Eating the inside of a sandwich when you drive is kind of tricky to manage so I end up eating the bread.

What has changed in my "Food" side of my changes:
I started eating much smarter.  I have added more protein - including lean meats and fish (something I thought was not necessary and caused weight gain)  I don't focus on calorie counting anymore but I try not to eat 'empty' calories.  My carbs come from vegetables and my sugar comes from fresh fruit.  Do I enjoy a treat once in a while?  A resounding, YES!!!  But it has become extremely limited as I don't want to consume empty calories that will contradict everything that I have done to get rid of them out of my diet.  So when there is a blue moon, I may have a small treat!  LOL  Another BIG one for me was - it is not the number on the scales that matter.  I most certainly have to thank a special someone who has gotten me out of that (he know who he is but does not want to be mentioned).

The positive thoughts are still a work in progress.  We all have 'those' days when we are not happy or we are looking for someone just to let us vent.  I try to be positive most days and it starts with a great morning workout.  That gets all my happy endorphins working full speed.  Monday is the day that sets the tone for the rest of the week.  (Yes, I am quoting my Personal Trainer who reminds me of this often)  If I start out great on Monday, the rest of the week is easy peezie.   When I'm not my 'happy' self...I have learned of a strategy that works for me.  I won't share it because you have to develop your own.

I will share what has become a habit about my exercise routine:
I do go to the gym 7 days a week.  That is my choice.  I have a set program that has been developed with the help of my Personal Trainer and his knowledge how to change things up has been extremely helpful.  Here it is:  elliptical machine, weight training, I play squash (and now I have added tennis thanks to a young lady that has got me playing this), and then my 10,000 steps every day.  Do I do that many steps EVERY day?  No, but on the average it's about 8,500.   When I go to the gym I am there for, at least, an hour.

I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!  Yes, there it is.  I do know that this will be the most difficult of all.  Once the weight loss has been achieved, I will continue to tone and make sure that the life style that I have chosen is so inbred into my brain that there will be no more going back to the way it was. 

I have learned that weight loss isn't all about dieting or exercise.  It's the combination of both.  I have
been told by a few people that I have met that I have influenced them into starting their own journey.  Remember the first thing is just to start...but getting the advice from a Personal Trainer, a professional who will help you get to a healthy lifestyle.  He/she will see improvements before you do!

Don't give up or be impatient with the process.   This is not an overnight fix!  Also, and most important, you have GOT TO WANT TO DO IT AND TO COMMIT!!!  No one is going to do it for you.  Don't compare yourself to anyone else around you.

I'm almost at the point where I am kind of proud of my accomplishments.  I DID commit and followed (sometimes kicking and screaming and using unladylike words) instruction.  I know I say it often...Thank you to my Personal Trainer.  No, he didn't do the work but he has led the way.  Just an aside - I still will not get my picture taken.  Not yet!!

I continue to wish all of you luck with your journey.  It certainly has not been as easy as everyone thinks it is.  But, if I can persevere, so can you!!!  DON'T GIVE UP!!!!  No more excuses!!!  If you truly want to change how you look and how you feel, then do something...anything.  Don't take on more than you can as this can sabotage what you are trying to achieve...hire a Professional Trainer...this is what they do!  It doesn't matter what other people think how you look, get past it!!!  You will be smiling and enjoying yourself before you know it!  I still try to blend into the woodwork and not stand out in the crowd.  But this is MY choice.

Again, this is just for something different.  I'm not just a Realtor, but I do enjoy life outside my job.

Until next time...


Betty
416 427 1875

1766 Sir Monty's Drive Mississauga

Are you looking to enjoy a quiet neighbourhood in Mississauga?  How about swimming in your pool (there is still time to get in lots of swimming)?  How about a game of tennis?

Well, here is the home for you.  It will give you everything you desire.   Enjoy breathtaking view of the Credit River as you enjoy the lazy days of summer from the gazebo.  Enjoy the summer breezes on your porch overlooking the pool and the backyard.   Enjoy the sounds of the waterfall and pond in you private sitting area.

This home sits on a pie-shaped lot with a courtyard fountain to great your guests and you as you come home to relax from a busy day.  Very quiet and child safe Cul De Sac.

Newly renovated kitchen with an island and granite counter tops.  This home boasts a finished walk-out basement.  For those of us who do laundry....you have to see this laundry/mud room!  There are so many more upgrades....

Want a tour?  Contact me directly at 416 427 1875.  There is so much to see.

Let's together and take a look at this home.

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative  ASA
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
DIRECT: 416 427 1875
EMAIL: betty@bettybart.com

Public Swimming Pools

"We're having a heat wave, a tropical heat wave"

It's summer time in the city and we are melting AND it's okay!  Unfortunately, we can't get out to enjoy it.  We're all hiding in our air conditioned homes.  Those of us fortunate to have a swimming pool in our backyards ARE out there enjoying the dog days of summer!  Just putting your feet in cooling water is helpful.

If you live in Mississauga, you have probably heard that they are closing South Common Pool for sprucing up.  It is one of the more popular public pools for swimming lessons, aquatic exercise, and recreational swimming.  Now that it's not available to the general public until approximately mid-September all you have to do is go south on Erin Mills Parkway for the closest alternative and that's David Ramsay Outdoor Pool at 2470 Thornlodge Drive and it's only about a 5 minute drive away.

David Ramsay Pool has extended their "OPEN" hours to accommodate many, especially during this heat wave, they are open a little longer.

Get in there and use the facility.  It has had a HUGE renovation completed 2 summers ago.  You will enjoy the outdoors, no need to be indoors this time of year.  You will hear the laughter of children AND adults alike.  It's in a beautiful neighbourhood of Sheridan Homelands.

Get out there an learn to swim, get some exercise, or just enjoy the outdoors during this short summer season.

Compliments of:

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative  ASA
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
905 828 3434
DIRECT/TEXT: 416 427 1875
EMAIL:  betty@bettybart.com

I Am An Accredited Senior Agent

A few years ago, I found myself very lucky in meeting 2 gentlemen...Chris Newell and Barry Lebow.  At the time, they were both teaching the Accreditation Programme to agents who were looking to tap into the senior market.  I have applied my knowledge many times because I do live in a neighbourhood where many seniors reside.  You may wonder why I'm writing this!  Well, I have a short story to share with you.

As the weather has turned nicer, there have been a few homes that have come on the market in the Sheridan Homelands neighbourhood.  I was out previewing homes for buyers who are interested in trying to set their roots here.  Because I have lived here for going on 30 years, I do have some knowledge of what's going on in the Real Estate Market.

I was previewing a home yesterday and this lovely little old lady was so confused as to what was happening and how busy her home was.  She was smart as a whip, but the activity was just too much for that day.  As I was finishing my peek-a-boo, she asked if I had a minute to chat with her.  Of course I did!  I wasn't looking to interfere with the Listing Agent, but I was lending an ear.  She told me about the passing of her husband and her surgery a few months back.  She told me where she was going to go from here.  She told me about her family.  She told me about her neighbours and how she was going to miss them.  I was there far longer than necessary, but she just needed someone at that particular moment to keep her company.  I told her that she had an excellent agent looking out for her, and that was the truth. because she was asking about what to do with her stuff.  I told her to ask her agent because I am sure she will be able to help her.

This brought me back to what I have said on my videos and in other blog posts.  It is a difficult time for someone who has lived in a home for MANY years to move.  They have accumulated so many things, all of a sudden they have to get rid of it, sell it, donate it...whatever...and they're not ready to part with it.  The house is on the market...it will sell quickly I'm sure...and then it depends on the closing date.  She was getting nervous whether she could empty the place out on time and who would help her with the move.  She was more worried about her garden because the landscaper she uses wasn't able to come and mow the lawn and finish planting flowers because of all the rain.  What a sweetheart!

I got off track here...if you are reaching that age where the house you reside in is too big, perhaps it's time to sit down and chat about 'the  move'.  I have an aging parent myself, and I would truly love to see her move when she wants to and where she wants to move to, before this decision is made for her. 

You may ask: "Why use an Accredited Senior Agent"?  Well, we are trained in special skills and we have the dedication needed to work with the mature and senior client.  We know the local retirement living options that are available and we can provide that information for you quite readily.  If you have family members who are going to be involved, we can take the burden of this move off their shoulders.  We do it all for you in the least stressful way that we can. Because we all know that moving is more stressful than it's made out to be.  We are there to help you make the right choice...and it will be YOUR choice!

Too all who I have talked to, and to all that might consider making a move, feel free to give me a call directly at 416 427 1875.  I do answer my phone.  I will never use any pressure tactics but I will be there when you need a strong shoulder or just a listening ear.  Let me know how I can help!

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative  ASA
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
905 828 3434
DIRECT/TEXT: 416 427 1875
EMAIL: betty@bettybart.com
www.bettybart.com
not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

 

What's Your Future Lifestyle?

You have finally decided that you want your own home.  It's a dream that many have as home ownership is very high on the list of "Things I Would Like".  Planning for this right from the first step will help in the process.  And, before you know it, it WILL become a realty.

After you, and your Realtor, have done the preliminary work - finances are in order, planning process to determine your 'dream' home - you are finally able to start the finding/buying process.

What Is Your Future Lifestyle?

How many bedrooms do you require?  How long are you planning to stay in this home?  You might only need 2 bedrooms now, but if you are considering a family, perhaps your first home should have at least 3 bedrooms.  If you are a season buyer and are looking to make a move with small children, mainly because of school preference, will this home be large enough for you or do you need something larger?  Will your budget allow it?  Do you need something larger?  What is the commute time?  Do you want to drive or use public transportation?  Is there a chance that you might be transferred? 

Do You Prefer a Maintenance Averse Lifestyle?

Do you prefer brick/stucco over a wood/siding home?  One type needs maintenance every few years while the other is relatively 'maintenance free'.  What about the garden?  Do you like, or even have time, to garden?  Perhaps you should be looking at smaller yards?

What about the 'fixer-upper' home?  You find a home in the perfect neighbourhood that is well below what you would expect to pay for a home in that particular neighbourhood and think: "It just needs a coat of paint,  new flooring, few repairs and I have the perfect home".

Think again.  No home is perfect.  And, if it's priced that far below market value in the neighbourhood, perhaps you should take a more intensive look at what needs to be done.  Do you want to do this yourself or are you going to hire someone to do the work for you?  Can you afford to do the work?  I remember when we did our renovations, the minute we took one wall down we found many problems and the cost was always more than you first estimated.

Always connect with a Realtor, and I hope it's me, to find out the values and what has been going on in that neighbourhood in the last few years. 

Feel free to contact me directly by calling or texting me at 416 427 1875.  Check out my web site at www.bettybart.com and sign yourself up in the Home Match system to see if there's something there that you might like to see.  Let's chat!

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative  ASA
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage

OFFICE: 905 828 3434

DIRECT: 416 427 1875

EMAIL: betty@bettybart.com

WEB SITE: www.bettybart.com

each office is independently owned and operated
not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

Lorne Park is located east of Clarkson, south of Erindale, west of Port Credit and the Credit River, and north of Lake Ontario. The area is noted as mainly residential. 

My web site is a sought after resource for the weekly postings of available Lorne Park properties.  By accessing Betty's Pic of the Week and signing up for the instantly downloadable report with correct contact information, you can receive up to date information of some of the homes that are available in this elegant community.

Here is a list of Homes for Sale in the Lorne Park Community of Mississauga.   I will be updating this list on a regular basis, so please feel free to come back several times and see what's new.

Click here to view Properties of Interest

You can get this list immediately with site sign up.  Fill in the form with correct contact information. 

Contact me directly at 416 427 1875 at your convenience for more information and more information on living in Mississauga…either freehold or condominium.

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
905 828 3434
Cell: 416-427-1875
Email: betty@bettybart.com
Web Site: http://www.bettybart.com
Fine Homes in Nine Oh Five
Toll Free: 1 866 838 3434

One Size Does NOT Fit All!

Every home has it's own features and therefore it doesn't fit everyone's needs. When your life changes, so do your housing needs. As a homeowner, you will have to decide what are your most important needs and should you continue to love your home or do you move!

Some of the changes could be...new editions to your family which could be children, pets, elderly parent(s), becoming an empty nester, or a home office. To stay or move would depend on emotions and finances.

Should you renovate?

If you are outgrowing your space then perhaps your option would be to finish the basement, an addition may be the answer, or just reconfiguring the floor plan. Perhaps a cosmetic change is in order - paint, appliances, cabinet finishes, flooring, etc.

Love It or List It?

It may save you some money to purchase a ready made home rather than buying brand new. Visit some open houses or talk to a Realtor to do some price comparisons.

What's the real estate activity in your neighbourhood?

This is where a Realtor comes in handy. Get a Market Evaluation done on your home to compare it to those that have sold.

Are you attached to your neighbourhood?

It is a bg change to your family. You may be changing schools, shopping, other amenities.

Are you willing to take on a new mortgage?

If you are up-grading, then you probably will be increasing your mortgage. If you have been fortunate to be mortgage-free, this could be a very difficult decision. If you are down-sizing, it can help you become mortgage-free sooner.

As you can see, each home is particular to each family. Each transaction that I have done is different.   No two transactions are alike!

Would you like to have a evaluation done on your existing property? How about just an Opinion of Value? Give me a call directly at 416 427 1875 or just email me at betty@bettybart.com. Register on my web site at www.bettybart.com for your free home evaluation!

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
Office: 905 828 3434
Direct: 416 427 1875
Toll Free: 1 866 838 3434
Email: betty@bettybart.com
Web Site: http://www.bettybart.com
Fine Homes in 905

PERSISTANT AND PATIENT IN DELIVERING RESULTS! ALL REFERRALS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract