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

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

There Is A Light At The End Of My Tunnel

Almost 3 years ago, I began a journey towards improving my health and fitness.  It has been a long process, but I have started to see the light at the end of the LONG tunnel.  I sat back the other evening and read through the blogs that I was writing when I started.  There was always changes happening.  I learned a lot...both about technique to use while I work out and also the importance of the balance between workout and diet. 

What have I learned?  Fitness is not one-size-fits-all.  Everybody has a different level and ability to accomplish some sort of exercise.  Do what you like and what makes you laugh and smile while you are doing it.  Don't let anyone shame your choices.  I have never cared what the person beside is lifting/running etc.  I changed because I developed a "lifestyle" change.  You don't have to belong to a 'boutique' gym.  It doesn't matter where you sweat as long as you put the work into it.  We all feel better, and feel we accomplished more, when we finish a workout and sweat is glistening on our bodies.  Well, I have learned that it's the intensity of the exercise that determines a good workout.  Not everyone is an expert.  There are many who think that they are fitness and nutrition experts.  It's YOU who knows his/her body best.  I found the most important part of fitness is to find a form of exercise that is sustainable for a long period of time and that I enjoy.  You HAVE to have fun doing this.

I have watched many at Life Time Athletic achieve many changes in their fitness levels.  I have decreased the number of days I go to the gym...under the advice of my Personal Trainer, I take one day off.  I do enjoy a game of squash and have had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people to join me on the courts. 

Yes, I am still with the same Personal Trainer.  He has helped me become a stronger person and will NOT allow me to think about failure at anything that I attempt.  The first few times with a new exercise may not be perfect, but with his guidance I find that I conquer all that is put in front of me.  This leads straight into my business, too. 

A year ago, I added golf to my agenda.  I found a wonderful coach who has reminded me why I enjoyed the game a few years ago and why it still frustrates me at the same time.  Thank you, Matthew Kane, for that lovely smile and your kind encouragement.  Matthew's calmness and kind words always help me relax.  Amazing what you can accomplish when you hear a kind word and a gentle attitude.

I decided to do a little writing today even though there is a month left before I hit the 3 Year mark of my journey.  I am humbled by those who have helped me along the way.  Those include the Trainers at Life Time Athletic who have encouraged me not to give up and those couple of members who have done the same.  Thank you to the Trainers that have made me laugh.  Thank you in particular to one member, Jasveen, who has listened and supported me during those days and times when the process seemed to be getting to me.  The only person who cares and is there with that shoulder that I need.

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.  I still feel I look like an Oompa Loompa when I walk through the gym.  But now I can say, "So what!  At least I am here trying to make my lifestyle different".

This is just for something different.  I am not just a Realtor!

Until next time

Betty
416 427 1875

Stepping Stone In My Journey

I have been looking at the transformation pictures of friends and ladies that want to share their journeys with me and reading all the great news about the amount of weight they have lost AND the changes in your bodies that they have noticed.

I am so proud of each and every one of you. My progress did not happen near as quickly as it did for the rest of you. 2 1/2 years later, I am 'almost' at the part of my journey where I can finally smile. I get very frustrated when those around me complain on how fat/big a certain part of their body is. When it truly isn't.  Is it that they just want the attention?  Are they looking for compliments?  Do you honestly feel that you are making me feel better?  I do NOT comment and I try to avoid any sharing of anything that I have done. I am still uncomfortable wearing proper fitting clothes. Yes, I do like loose fitting but it is great to be able to go into a regular store and buy something and it actually fits. I have gone from a size 26 to a size 10...my BMI started at 36.6 and was last read at 25.4 - this was my proudest number.

I have been told that I have motivated a few to start their own journey.  That is my proudest moment.  These ladies are at the point in their lives where I was 2 1/2 years ago.   From these ladies, I get positive reinforcement.  They don't complain that they haven't lost.  We support eachother.   We laugh at the same things about ourselves without making ourselves uncomfortable to what is being said. 

This is something that I had to get off my chest.  Enjoy your journey.  Each and every one of you have to do your own.  Remember, I also have a mental journey and I need support just like you do. 

Until next time

BETTY

I Am Still On My Journey

Where has the time gone?

As 2014 nears it's end, I am now thinking, "it's been a full year of training" at a gym.  At the beginning of this year, I met with my Personal Trainer and we discussed our plan of action for this year. We didn't consider the whole year, but just six months at a time.  It makes it much less ominous to take baby steps to get results.  Well, I'm afraid I have disappointed my Trainer as he suggested where I should be by June, and here it is November and I am still no further along. 

No, I am not blaming my Trainer.  He's been nothing but kind and patient.  The frustration lies with me.  As patient as I am as a Realtor, I have little patience for myself.  So, what do I do...I drive my body harder when I'm working out on my own to the point where it's not my mind that tells me to stop, but actually my body stops. 

When I started a year and a half ago, the purpose of this process was to lose weight (like everyone else) and to get physically fit (like everyone else).  I have learned much along the way.  The biggest lesson was 'commitment'.  I became motivated when I found the trainer that would help me.  He has forced me to maintain a positive mindset over my plateaus (of which there have been many and this last one I haven't been able to get past yet).  He adjusts my routines to keep me motivated and to build momentum.  That was the key.  Someone was there to make sure that I am motivated  at every step of the way.  I have stopped getting frazzeled over things that I cannot control.  I have learned that it's not a matter of time "IF" I screw up, but when.  I'm not perfect.  I have never claimed to be.  I have a lot of bad weeks (even more bad days).  It's how I have overcome some of those 'bad' issues.  I have a long way to go.  It's all those years of trying to be perfect and not succeeding that I have to overcome.  The idea is to not give up.  Understand that we will stumble, to get up...dust yourself off and focus on what we did right and continue on.

I remember the first day I walked through those doors at Life Time Athletic in Mississauga and was faced with a facility that truly believes in physical fitness for the WHOLE family.  I know the look on the faces of those who are lost in the weight training areas and then moving around the club and watching what others are doing (some know what they're doing; others are just winging it).  It's the look of fear because they don't know who to ask, what questions to ask, and then at the same time wondering if anyone else is feeling the same.  My biggest hurdle was mental, not so much physical.  Yes, there are "watchers" in this gym too.  Those who want to watch and learn while training is being done to someone and not sign up to learn and get a lesson on their own.  It is their loss because there is nothing like getting a few lessons to make sure that you are not going to hurt yourself.

I used every excuse: I felt I needed to get into shape before I started with a Personal Trainer because I didn't want to be judged; I had failed in the past and why was this going to be any different; I didn't enjoy working out; I might as well do it on my own.  All of these were EXCUSES.  I found out you have to connect with the trainer that you can get along with.  Not one that will let you get away with nonsense.  If you start out with someone and you don't get some results that you are looking for, for heavens sakes...change trainers.  There are plenty to go around.  It took me a while before I found one on my own.  I assessed him for months to see how he worked, watched his attitude, and what kind of results was he getting.  I was too new at the gym to ask anyone because we were all new and we didn't know any better.

My biggest lesson - I can't do it on my own.  I needed someone to teach me the proper techniques for the machines and the weights.  Also, there are plenty of machines that are there to fill space to make things easy.  If it's really that easy, why do you not see trainers using them with their clients?  Makes you think.

Since the last time I shared my journey, there hasn't been much change except to my attitude.  I stopped 'discussing/negotiating' what exercise I will, or will not, try.  Well, not so much anyway!  There are still exercises that I, stubbornly, will not do.  My Trainer has been professional enough and has worked with me long enough to know when not to push me.  He doesn't give up and he doesn't let me give up either.  I would like to add to the administrative staff at Life Time Athletic in Mississauga...you are very fortunate to have a Personal Trainer such as Alwin Mascoll on your staff and I feel privileged to have found someone that truly does care on the success of each and every one of his clients.

Where do I go from here?  Well, I think I just keep working at what I'm doing trying to perfect what I set out to do on Day 1 a year and a half ago.  I think it will be time for a pow-wow with my Personal Trainer, Alwin (I think I've known him long enough and you have probably heard me speak of him often) to get his thoughts (possibly in the New Year to start the year out fresh).  We discuss a lot of things while I'm training and he is constantly throwing something new into the mix so that I don't get into a rut. 

If you see me at Life Time Athletics, feel free to say "Hi"!  If I'm working out, I will apologize in advance for not stopping.  I will nod and give you a smile.  You will have to be patient and wait until I'm done what I'm doing.  I would love to hear your story and how you are doing.  I have seen a few that have started working with a trainer and I have noticed some fantastic results.  Keep up the good work.  It's so great to see success.  Thank you to those Trainers who actually do care about their clients.

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

 

August Already????

We can all feel it, can’t we?  As soon as we turn the page on our calendars to August, we know that there isn’t much left of summer so we try to squeeze in as much time outdoors as we can.  We don’t want to think about anything but how much more summer we can get before we start to change our wardrobes and our schedules.  In my neighbourhood, I see excitement starting for the little ones as they think that school is just about to start and they get to wear new clothes and use those clean books and sharp pencils for the first as their school year starts.  Teenagers, on the other hand, have just started to come out of hibernation, not happily, I might add.  The post secondary students are starting prepare their sojourn away from home for the first time if they are first year, and those going into second year…well, the garages are starting to fill up with their ‘stuff’ that they will be taking with them.  Excitement everywhere!

Now for some of us, the Fall Real Estate Market is just around the corner, are you ready?  This is the second busiest time of the year to sell or purchase a home!  You may still be trying to get into a specific school district neighbourhood and you haven’t had much success.  Well, maybe now is the time to explore what is out there.  Perhaps you are thinking of downsizing before the snow flies!

If you have any questions about the Real Estate Market, feel free to read the most recent Market Watch on my web site at www.bettybart.com.  It get’s updated at the beginning of every month as soon as the report comes out.  Save a tree and read it on line.  After you've finished, and you have questions, feel free to call/text me directly at 416 427 1875.

Maybe this is the time to make sure your finances are in order.  You should have your questions answered about Mortgages.  How much can you afford?  Find out BEFORE you head out the door with your Realtor so you don't look at homes that you cannot afford and the process becomes too stressful for you.

What are the Mortgage Rates?  Depends who you talk to.  Let me connect you with a wonderful Mortgage Specialist that will provide you with the information that you need.

Now, get out and enjoy the few of weeks of summer.  My phone is charged up and my pencils are sharpened.  If you see my sign for an open house on any given weekend, come on in and say ‘hello’!

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

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under brokerage contract

 

 

The Benefits Of Condo Living

Whether you have reached an age where owning a detached home with a large home is too much to handle or if you are a first-time home buyer, are you ready for condo life?

What's the biggest difference from freehold homes?  You own your unit but you share ownership of the land, building, and common areas (areas used by all).  You share your costs with member of your condo association, and the board of directors or a property management company who make the big decisions.

With so many condo popping up on the market right now, and so many new ones going up in Mississauga and Toronto, you have to decide whether this is the smart choice for you.

Let's look at the benefits of Condo Living:

1) Someone handles all the outside work.  For example: snow shoveling, landscaping, outside repairs to the building.   Your condo maintenance fees will cover all this.

2) Many major costs are shared.  A portion of the condo fees will go to a 'Reserve Fund'.  When a property is well managed this fund could cover window replacement, roofing - and this would be done without any cost to the owners.  However, if it is poorly managed and falls short, a 'special assessment' will be done and the costs will be shared equally among owners.

3) Lifestyle. Condos allow you to own your space rather than rent.  Some condo developments cater to specific groups - young professionals, families, or seniors.

4) Amenities.  Would you get a theatre room, gym, or swimming pool in your average and affordable detached home?

5) Customization. Unlike renting, you are free to paint, renovate, etc.

6) Price. Depending on where you choose to live, this may the affordable way for you to own a home.

7) Location.  If you are looking at prime real estate in a major city, a condo may be the practical solution.  All your amenities are nearby.

8) Security. Some buildings offer 24 hour security or a doorman.  You may feel safer with neighbours close by and you worry less if you travel frequently.

If you own a townhouse or a condo unit in a community in the 905 area code and would like to sell your residence, click here and get a free market evaluation of your home.

Are you a buyer?  If you would like more information regarding what is currently available for sale, please feel free to contact me directly by calling or texting Betty Bartusevicius at 416 427 1875.

Compliments of:
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

Freedom 55 Retirement Living

When you hear the word ‘retirement’, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?  A frail person, with an oxygen tank attached to them and living in a residence with constant care with nothing to do but to watch birds fly and the sun come up and then set at the end of the day!

I’m very happy to say that things have changed.  Now, instead of sitting back and watching grass grow, more of us want to use the extra time, energy, and the extra cash that we have received from the sale of our properties.  We want to travel, which is one of the things that is on everyone’s bucket list!

Today, retirees want a home where they can travel from and entertain in.  Health issues are still there but most of us stay fit longer and have access to better medical care than, let’s say, our parents.

Is there a ‘perfect’ Retirement Home?  Probably not.  It becomes perfect when it meets the requirements of aging and changing needs.

When you decide to move to a smaller home or a retirement community, there are many advantages – smaller homes translate to lower costs and less maintenance; and retirement communities ensure your neighbours are of the same generation and have made the same lifestyle decision as yourself.

Staying in your current home is more economical if your mortgage is paid off.  If you still have a mortgage, you’ll need to figure out if your retirement income will be high enough for you to continue the payments.  You should evaluate whether it meets your physical needs.  If it needs remodeling, do you really want to undertake these projects?

You have many choices if you decide to move:

Perhaps a condominium or an apartment is your future.  The condo lifestyle has been a favorite by empty nesters for a long time.  They vary in size and price and have all the facilities that you would want or need.  Perhaps you would like a peace and quiet of waterfront living or even living in the countryside.  Condo life has advantages – short on maintenance, long on amenities, offer more opportunity to socialize.  They are much more affordable and a great way to still own property and downsize at the same time.

How about a Bungalow?  You have the opportunity to own a house with a yard, minimal maintenance, smaller, and everything is on one level!

RetirementCommunities

In this day and age, retirement communities are resort-like.  You have the best of both worlds.  You have condo type living and then you have assistance if you need it.  For example, when you first move in you may not need care and supervision.  But, as time passes, your needs change and these communities have been set up to change with these needs for you.

Giving up a home where you have lived for many years is frightening.  It is emotionally and mentally draining.  It is better to start to plan for this move so that you can make the decision yourself instead of having someone else make the decision for you and you end up where you don’t want to be.

Moving is overwhelming and stressful – especially emotionally.  Once you’ve decided that you’re ready, talk to someone about your options.  The best contact would be to an Accredited Senior Agent (ASA) who has the patience and team behind them for discussions factors that you need to consider:  the daily lifestyle you are looking for; proximity to children or family; type of climate you would like to enjoy; health and medical needs.  After these points are addressed, now we can proceed a little further - what is your budget – this is important.  If you have been careful with your finances you should have enough funds to cover the monthly expenses for a retirement home of your choice.

I have my ASA accreditation and am ready to start to chat about YOUR needs and wants.  I can provide a free estimate ofthe value of your current home and give you information about the type of property will best suit your retirement lifestyle.  Freedom 55 is within your reach.  Call me, Betty, at 416 427 1875.  My team is ready to get things started.

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

 

 

Another Satisfied Home Buyer

Thank you for the kind words from another happy Client, and a first-time home buyer to boot:

 

"Betty was really helpful in assisting me to purchase my first house. She explained the process in complete details, making sure not to rush any parts of the decision. She was always straight forward and sincere in all her comments. She also made herself available at the last minute to visit properties, and this over and above customer service proved key to closing the house of our dreams. Betty also proved to be excellent with negotiations skills and tactics, to obtain a fair price for the house. She is also well connected within the industry, with home inspectors, etc. I would not hesitate to recommend her to any new clients."

 

Now, how can I be of help to you?  It doesn't matter if you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned buyer/seller! 

 

I have enough patience and passion in working with Clients in Real Estate to go around.  I truly love what I do!

 

My phone is charged up!

 

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

FINE HOMES IN 905

 

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

 

 

 

Evergreen Adult Lifestyle Living Mississauga

Welcome to 810 Scollard Drive Unit #209 in Mississauga at Eglinton and Mavis Road.  A spotless unit in Mississauga's finest Retirement Lifestyle Community. Enjoy all the amenities of pampered living in an adult community for mature clients. This building provides 24 Hour Concierge, Medical & Shuttle Services. The building is close to all amenities, transit & highways.

Also included in this unit are stainless steel fridge, stainless steel built-in dishwasher, cook top, and a built-in wall oven.  Beautiful granite counter tops make this kitchen shine.  White subway tiles were installed for the backsplash.  No carpeting in this unit.  You will also get a parking spot, and a locker for extra storage.

Sit on the balcony on the north side of the building.  Across the driveway is a proposed parkette.

For pictures and a virtual tour, please click W2209475 


With 42,000 square feet of entertainment including a Salon, Spa, Library, 50'S Diner, Fine Dining, Salt Water Pool With Aquafit Classes, Internet Lounge, Billiards & the list goes on.  
 
With it's beautiful lobby and exquisite lounges, Evergreen evokes a sense of luxury and comfort.  Evergreen Retirement Community provides a variety of activities to keep you as busy or relaxed as you choose.  Enjoy the company of new friends while sipping a cocktail at the bar.  The choice is yours.  You have independent lifestyle services and you have full service lifestyle.
 
Feel free to call me directly at 416 427 1875
 
Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative
Accredited Senior Agent
Re/Max Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
905 828 3434
Fine Homes In 905
Cell: 416-427-1875
Email: betty@bettybart.com
Web Site: http://www.bettybart.com/

PERSISTENT IN GETTING THINGS DONE!!! ALL REFERRALS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

Condo Living at 3600 Morning Star, Mississauga

Welcome to condo living in Malton. Absolutely stunning. A clean complex in a great family-oriented area. Great location near all amenities: school, park, public transit, community centre, shops, recreation centre, and Highways 427/401. Gorgeous end unit - like a semi. Pleasure to show!

Lower Maintenance Fees. A great beginning. Start here in a quiet and established neighbourhood.

Call Betty Bartusevicius directly at 416 427 1875 if you would like more information about this area.

Condo Living in Mississauga

Don't miss this opportunity to purchase a unit at 880 Dundas Street West in Mississauga. This sun soaked Unit in The Kingsmere On The Park has just had a makeover. New flooring was laid in the kitchen, living room, and foyer. The unit has just been freshly painted with a great neutral color. Floor to ceiling windows gives you maximum light and gorgeous views. Fantastic location. Mississauga Public Transit has a stop in front of building with direct access to the TTC. Walk to the grocery store.
Nothing for you to do, except move in and enjoy the sun and your views.

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative
Re/Max Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
Fine Homes In Nine Oh Five
Office: 905-828-3434
Fax: 905-828-2829
Direct: 416-427-1875
Email: betty@bettybart.com
Web Site: http://www.bettybart.com

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PSST: IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING A HOME AND NEEDS MY HELP...FEEL FREE TO PASS ALONG MY NAME AND NUMBER TO THEM! ALL INTRODUCTIONS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED

this is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

Mississauga Home for Sale

Welcome to an elegant condominium for sale at 1915 Broad Hollow Gate in Mississauga. This is executive living at its finest in this exclusive wooded community in Mississauga . This gem is tucked away for quiet and privacy. It has a popular open concept design with 9 foot and 18 foot ceilings. Picture windows line the rear of this home with majestic wooded views. The kitchen has an upgraded Bellini Kitchen with granite counter top wrapped to backsplash with under valance lighting and wall to wall furniture finish twin pantry with a granite topped desk. Parking for 6 vehicles.

For more pictures of this home click here

This home also offers a built in dishwasher, all blinds and window coverings, garberator, all electric light fixtures, central air conditioning, pot lighting throughout, hardwood flooring, 7.5 Inch baseboards, large deck with a privacy wall overlooking the woods, garage door opener and remotes

If not this home, perhaps I can show you something else?

Feel free to give me a call and let's discuss your real estate needs. Your decision is the decision I will respect.

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

PSST: IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING A HOME AND NEEDS MY HELP...FEEL FREE TO PASS ALONG MY NAME AND NUMBER TO THEM! ALL REFERRALS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers under brokerage contract

Common Mistakes Made by First Time Buyers

How to avoid Mistakes

Applying for a mortgage and becoming a home buyer can seem overwhelming especially if it’s your first home. With the help of a mortgage specialist, it can be easy. They will meet with you anytime and guide you through the process and help you find the best mortgage for your specific needs.

Not knowing your credit rating.

A credit rating is a record of your credit history and current financial situation which is typically translated into a credit score. Lenders use your credit rating to verify your repayment history. A good credit rating could improve your ability to get loans like mortgages. If your credit rating needs improvement to help you qualify for loans, you can improve your score by always making at least the minimum payments on your credit cards, loans or utility bills in a timely fashion.
Being unrealistic about how much you can afford to pay for your home.

You may be under or over-estimating how much you can pay for your home. Online mortgage calculators are available. You can also use this calculator to figure out mortgage payments with different amounts and rates.

Not considering a mortgage pre-approval.

Knowing the amount you will be approved for gives you the confidence to begin looking for homes within your price range. As long as you earn sufficient income and have no large debts or credit issues, you should be pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approved mortgage rate is usually guaranteed for 90 days (or lower if rates drop) so you can continue shopping and do not need to immediately commit. Make sure you check with you lender to make sure about the 90 day guarantee. Sometimes, this means that you must pick up your keys within the 90 days. Always ask about the option of extending the deadline. This is where your advice from your realtor or your mortgage broker will make the deal more relaxing.

Assuming you will not qualify for a mortgage.

Have you ever been declined for a mortgage for any reason, even bankruptcy, and still dream of owning your own home? If you do not qualify for a conventional mortgage your mortgage specialist may still be able to help you get the home of your dreams through an alternative mortgage solution. Although the alternative mortgage may cost a little more initially, once your credit situation has improved, you are able to lower your mortgage cost in the future.
Be aware of all the down-payment choices.

You’ll be glad to know that there are different options available depending on how much of a down-payment you can afford.Conventional mortgage (25% down-payment)High-Ratio Mortgage (minimum 5% down)No down-payment mortgage (must have a minimum of 1.5% value of the home set aside for closing costs) As high-ratio and no down-payment mortgages have lower down-payments, they require a higher mortgage loan insurance premium. This premium is added to the amount you borrow. As a first time homebuyer, you can also use money saved in your RRSP towards a down-payment with a maximum of $ 20,000 per person. Too focused on interest rate rather than overall solution. The mortgage specialist is there to help you decide which mortgage solution works best for you and fits not only your budget but within your future plans. Fixed rate mortgage: offers you the security of locking in the interest rate for the length of the mortgage term (anywhere from 6 months to 10 years) the interest rate for a fixed mortgage tends to be somewhat higher than for a variable rate mortgage. Variable rate mortgage: your interest rate will fluctuate according to the lender’s prime rate. However, over time you could have greater savings on long term interest costs. Worried about how much you’ll be paying regularly? Your regular monthly payments remain the same on a variable rate mortgage, only the portion of the payment allocated to principal and interest will fluctuate with the prime rate. Combined Fixed & Variable: If you want to benefit from the best of both worlds, ( the security of a fixed rate with the potential long term savings from a variable rate) you can consider RBC’s Homeline Plan. This option requires 25% equity in your home.

Not choosing your own mortgage payments schedule.

Customize your amortization period depending on how much you can afford. Paying off your mortgage faster saves on interest costs, while a longer amortization period such as 35 or 40 years reduces your regular payment amount and gives you more room to manage your cash flow. Because extended amortization means increased interest costs and paying down a mortgage more slowly, this option is not for everyone. A 25 year amortization period should be the starting point as stretching the mortgage amortization to 35 or 40 years can increase your total interest costs by 50% over the life of the mortgage. If you decided a longer amortization is appropriate, consider a strategy to reduce the amortization over the life of the mortgage, accelerated payments, bi-weekly payments, 10% anniversary payment and annual 10% increase in payment amount, can get you back on track to a 25 year –or even shorter- amortization period. Regardless of the mortgage option you choose, buying and owning a home is likely to be one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.

Creditor insurance can help protect that investment from life’s uncertainties and help give you the confidence that comes with knowing your investment is well protected.Life and disability insurance can pay your outstanding mortgage balance up to $500,000 in the event of death, or can make your regular monthly mortgage payment – up to $3,000 per month up to 24 months – if you become disabled. Forgetting about closing costs and other non-banking details. By this time you have selected a house, picked your mortgage options and are getting down to some picky details. It helps to know what these are so you can minimize any last minute complications.

Some additional budget items may be:

Professional Home Inspection: Always make an offer conditional upon a home inspection. As long as your offer is conditional upon the home inspection you can have the purchase price reduced to offset the cost of needed repairs or cancel the agreement. You should also inspect the home before moving in to make sure the condition has not changed. Newly built homes are covered by the TARION builder warranty program.

Lawyer or notary fees: make sure that you work with an experienced lawyer /notary so that all legal aspects of your house purchase are properly completed.

Property Taxes: Look for the previous year’s payments in the property listing given to you by your real estate agent.

Property Insurance: Property insurance is all about protecting the things you value: your home, your personal belongings and even your financial future. Fire insurance will be a must.

Property Value: Know that when you buy property, there is a possibility that the property value will fluctuate. Typically over time property values increase and buying a home is generally considered to be a good investment.

Moving Costs: Budget for a professional mover, decorating costs and fees for setting up your cable, internet and telephone and other utilities.

Ongoing Costs: Don’t forget to budget for the cost of maintaining a home, such as heating electricity and water, repairs and taxes. A good suggestion is to budget at least 1% of the homes value for yearly maintenance expenses.

Contact Betty Bartusevicius if you have any further questions at 905 828 3434 or directly at 416 427 1875
Re/Max Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage

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