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

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

The Journey Is Not Yet Complete

I'm still here, although I am a little tardy in my post this month.  My journey is still not over and I continue to work out at the gym.  Still 5 days a week and still kind of having a little bit of fun.  Things change.  In my last post I wrote that I had lost a wee bit of weight, well I had...and now I have hit a 'plateau' and I'm getting a little frustrated with this.  We all go through it.  We do well, and then when we hit the pause button we either stop doing what we're doing or we go head-first through the wall.  Well, I'm going head-first.  I haven't broken through, YET!!!

Much has been said and written about this exercise and weight loss programs and the challenges that they present.  It takes commitment.  I guess you have to be a little mentally prepared and have a plan to be successful.  Reading what I just wrote, I realize that applies to everything in my life.  I have been known to those around me that I am persistent at completing tasks.  It shows when I'm at the gym.

When I first started my goals were different than they are now, but my priority was to lose weight.  Well, I've accomplished some of that but I have quite a ways to go.  I also have been told that I am very hard on myself.  If not me, then who will be?  I'm not hard on myself I am just a wee bit stubborn and have this desire to do better.  I give myself a month to achieve a certain goal, and if it is not met...well, a little devil on my shoulder starts to laugh and frustration comes out.  BUT I DO NOT QUIT.

Sometimes I establish a new goal - lift a little more weight, last a little longer on the elliptical, increase speed and resistance on the elliptical, play some basketball (against myself) -- all of these are changes that I make on my own.

I still do a regimented routine at the gym that I do not like.  I do it because it has provided the results that I want.  BUT, at the same time, I try to do exercises that I really enjoy and it helps keep the daily habit of going to the gym.  Also, having a Personal Trainer who keeps coming up with surprises is helpful.  There are also many friends and supporters that I have that get me through those days where I truly would rather just throw my hands in the air and ask myself - "why am I doing this if it's not working".  These are the people that get me off the chair and into the gym to begin my day.  Yes, I may appear to be strong (and I have also been told that I appear to be a little bull headed) but I do need encouragement and motivation.  I do not need pity or over-embellishment on my progress.

More and more I have increased my natural movement - moving my body without the constraints of machines.  Machines 'could' limit our performance potential.  I find that I get more out of a workout using free weights - bending, twisting, reaching, pulling and pressing - and trying to keep my balance in check by staying upright.  I have fallen.  But, with my Trainer spotting me, he at the very least catches the weights so I don't get hurt.

Do you remember your gym teacher telling you: "No Pain; No Gain" or "Go Hard or Go Home".  I have learned that this type of mentality increases physical strain and potential injury.  My Personal Trainer keeps a record of what I do at every single workout.  He makes sure that I do better today than I did the last week on that same routine.  He has taught me proper technique to prevent injury.  By the end of every workout with him, he is judging to see that I am moving better than at the beginning.

Am I more energized?  Yes.  Do I have a ways to go?  A resounding YES!!!!  My energy levels have definitely increased.  My stubborn streak has not decreased (ask Alwin Mascoll my Personal Trainer).  The additional and new exercises that he has surprised me with has frustrated me to some extent, but then I get over it. 

If you see me at Life Time Athletics in Mississauga, feel free to say 'hello'.  If I'm working out, then you will get a nod and perhaps a smile.  You will have to wait to chat after I'm done.

I continue to wish all of you luck with your voyage.  It's certainly not as easy as everyone thinks it is.  But if I can persevere, so can you.   Don't give up!  I haven't!

This is just for something different - I am not 'just' a Realtor.  I am a much happier Realtor.

Until next month at which time it will be a year with my Personal Trainer.  Let's see what those results will be after a year.

Betty Bart
416 427 1875

The Continuing Saga

It's been a month of a brand New Year, 2014.  We have endured an extremely cold month of January and, for a lot of us, our resolutions for the New Year are now a distant memory.  We tend to forget what we strive for when we open a new door in our lives.

My journey through physical training continues.  I was reading another story this morning about an elderly, perhaps the correct word would be 'mature', gentleman in his own journey.  He hasn't quit!  Why have you? 

I know there are days when I drag myself to the gym and watch all these young things having a social morning and I arrive in my baggy t-shirt ready to try to get my muscles to wake the rest of my body up.  After my warm-up the heart is pumping and blood starts to flow.  On those days when I do free weights, my mind fights my body in achieving what I feel it should be able to do.  Body Wins!!!

Most days I leave the gym feeling better than when I walk in, but there are those other days.  When I leave the gym on a good day, I'm ready to tackle anything my clients/customers throw at me.  Remember, I am not a body builder nor do I have time (or the patience) to spend hours at the gym.  I go in...get my work out under my belt...and get out there to continue my day.

After about half a year with a Personal Trainer (you have heard me talk of him often - Alwin Mascoll at Life Time Gym), I have noticed that I walk taller, I have more energy than I have had in a very long time.  I'm not looking for compliments on how I look.  I KNOW the changes that are taking place.  I am able to concentrate without any effort and those stairs that I climb to show homes to clients, have become less of a task.  I am human (some may disagree).  Given the chance, I will take the easy road to complete a workout.

I cannot stress on getting the professional help in getting this done.  As it says in the article: "If you have the self-motivation, you can do it on your own.  But it's always advisable to have help at first so you're doing what's appropriate and doing it correctly." 

There must be a few of you who are reading this that belong to Life Time in Mississauga at Hwy #403 and Winston Churchill!  I'm there 5 mornings a week.  If you see me, come on over and say hello.  We have something in common - we are working out for our health and happiness. 

Let's see what the next month brings!

Betty Bartusevicius, Sales Representative  ASA
RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage
416 427 1857

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

 

Port Credit Real Estate Activity

With a population of 10,260 for the 2001 Census, this quaint village is found at the mouth of the Credit River on the north shore of Lake Ontario, within the city of Mississauga.  The face of Port Credit — the lighthouse situated on the banks of the Credit River

The Waterfront Trail is a 325-kilometre-long paved path connecting Trenton to Burlington along Lake Ontario's shores. A 15-kilometre-long section runs through Port Credit and will lead you through miles of streets and parks. Take a stroll, bike ride or in-line skate through woodlots, neighborhoods and beaches. 

The Port Credit Harbour, recently redeveloped, is exciting. Its new facilities and beautiful landscaping invite visitors to look out over the lake, go for a stroll, watch the boats, cast a fishing line or just sit and relax. 

Are you a homeowner in the Mississauga neighbourhood and are you thinking of selling your house?  Are you a buyer and would like to enjoy the waterfront lifestyle in Port Credit?   Click here to view the activity of the last few months in Port Credit.   Sign up for the report with a correct email address and the report will be sent to you directly.

Feel free to contact me directly by calling or texting me at 416 427 1875.  Let me help you with all your Real Estate needs.

 

 

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

March 18 Betty's Pics Of The Week Lorne Park

Prestigious 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, 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.

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