july 4, 2014 issue 97

WHAT’S INSIDE:

Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster,Dundas & Glanbrook ListingsPAGE 9

HOMES FOR SALEGrimsby, Lincoln, WestLincoln & Niagara ListingsPAGE 5

July 1, 2014 - Vol 66a

HOME EVALUATION NO COST • NO OBLIGATION905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Rob GolfiSales Representative

76 Fowler Drive

Binbrook

How to Win when yougo to Small Claims CourtPAGE 8PAGE 12

Testimonial

Dear Rob,

Again, we thank you for selling ourthird home so quickly, efficiently, andgetting us the highest price in theneighbourhood!

We’ ve always trusted your expertise,follow your recommendations and arehappy that you outperform in the saleevery time! My sister will be contactingyou shortly to sell her home as well!

Rebecca & Karl

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch July 1, 2014

www.GolfiTeam.com

About Rob Golfi

Rob’s career in real estatebegan in October 1997and putting the needs of

his clients first has always beena primary principle. Rob joinedRE/MAX Escarpment January1st 1999. As his career grewand with changing times in themarketplace, Rob realized thatthe team concept was the nextstep in order to maintain thesame level of service that his

clients had come to expect. Hence, “The Golfi Team”was formed, comprised of a select group of individualswho work well together and share Rob’s team philos-ophy. In 2003, the team received the prestigious hon-our of being in the top 100 Real Estate Teams forRE/MAX Canada*. And this status continues to date*.Rob has received every major award available atRE/MAX including the Diamond Club (2010-2012)*,100% Club (1999-2001)*, Platinum Club (2002)*,Chairmans Club (2003-2009)*, Hall of Fame (Inductedin 2003)*, and the Lifetime Achievement Award(Inducted in 2006)*, Circle of Legends (2013).*

Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills arekey in this business. Any agent can list your house, butRob’s knowledge and ability to negotiate constructive-ly gives his clients peace of mind in dealing with the sin-gle most important investment in their lives.

Rob has an extensive marketing background thatcompliments his real estate career. He has achieved animpressive visual identity in the market place. Rob alsoprides himself on his ability to stay current with in theindustry and to remain competitive in the marketplace.His hard work and dedication has awarded him thehonour of consistently ranked in the Top 5 of nearly2500 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington andNiagara Area since (2003).** Currently (2013)* Rob isranked Number 1 in transactions sales ends in theHamilton-Burlington and Niagara Area.

“Each client is always treated with First Class Service.”

*Based on RE/MAX Ontario Atlantic Canada annual commission criteria

**Based on The Real Estate Association of Hamilton-Burlington total transac-

tions January 1, 2003 – March 31, 2013.

Visitwww.GolfiTeam.comCheck out our Blog for the latest

information in Real Estate

Seniors Real Estate Specialist

is a designation for REALTORS® to address the

needs of home buyers and sellers, age 50-plus.

where the future takes shape

Rob GolfiSales Representative

905-575-7700

If you are buying or selling a home,

contact Rob Golfi today.

Feature Home

July 1, 2014 The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

Call Today 905-575-7700

WATERFRONT! Magnificent Mediterranean Villa

situated on 1/3 acre with a privatelong driveway tucked away in StoneyCreek’s most sought after location.

Flanked by tall, mature trees withoutstanding views of Toronto & theCN Tower.

This property features a spectacu-lar custom designed and built resi-dence, two storey grand foyer, spa-cious open concept main floor with 9’ceilings, gourmet kitchen with granitecounter tops, Maple cabinets, islandwith Jenn-Air Grill, 3 large bed-rooms, 3 full bathrooms, double cargarage, outdoor fire pit.

The luxurious master suiteincludes oversized walk-in closet,

large balcony, double-sided fireplace

in the spa like ensuite bath with jetted

tub facing the water and oversized

walk in shower.

Exuding timeless elegance and

extraordinary charm, this home

offers, exceptional features including;

custom designed wall to wall French

doors overlooking lake Ontario, cus-

tom pot lighting, 2 gas fireplaces,

Jack and Jill bath for 2nd and 3rd

bedroom, oversized doors for wheel-

chair access, separate entrance for

basement in-law set up and a custom

patio on the water’s edge.

Won’t last long! Call Rob Golfi

today at 905-575-7700 for a private

viewing or visit our website at

www.robgolfi.com.

Waterfront

GrImSby $1,669,900188 North Service Road

ONE ACRE GATED LAKEFRONT ESTATE - Features 4 bedrm home, w/fully-finished basement, 180 ft of armourrock shoreline protection. Everything has been updated fromtop to bottom in this magnificent show piece. Separatebuilding can be a boat house or studio. View pictures on line.

$6,665 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

GrImSby $955,000143 Lake Street

FABuLOuS FiND – Exclusive listing to the Golfi Team.Beautiful Waterfront lot sitting on 140 x 183 ft. lot onprivate cul-de-sac, build your dream home on the shores oflake Ontario, services include sewers, water and gas to lotline.


WATERFRONT

Stoney Creek $619,900131 Edgewater Drive

THiS iS A 10++ LOCATED AT NEWPORT YACHTCLuB, biggest lot! Private Marina, new $60,000 designergourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line sub-zero fridge & winestorage, wolfe 6 burner gas stove, miele dishwasher, granitecounter top with built-in island!


Fort erIe $849,9001645 Niagara Parkway

CuSTOM BuiLT HOME facing the Niagara River, fourlarge bedrooms, plus finished attic with roughed in bath fora fifth bedroom. Solid oak doors and trim throughout.unspoiled basement with walkout. New C/A, Furnace ‘01.Roof ‘05. Does not disappoint!


Stoney Creek $1,149,90012 Campview Road

Extraordinary 1/3 acre WATERFRONT home on quietprivate road w/2 storey grand foyer! Breath-taking views ofLake Ontario & CN Tower. Open concept, 9' ceilings,Gourmet kitch w/granite counters. 3 BRs, 3 full baths, 2ndfloor ldry. Master suite w/walk-in closet & ensuite.Backyard professionally landscaped.

hAmIlton eASt $949,900 1083 Beach Boulevard

TRENDY BEACH BLVD – Spectacular & luxurious bestdescribes this awesome beauty! Executive free holdtownhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishesthrough-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, andoversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington &quick access to QEW


WATERFRONT WATERFRONT WATERFRONT WATERFRONT

Stoney Creek $589,90090 Seabreeze Cres.

WATERFRONT RETREAT 1900 sq.ft, 1-1/2 storey homewith beautiful lake views. Features 4 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths,vaulted ceilings, oak spiral staircase, professionallylandscape yards. Call for a private viewing today!

$2356 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT


WOW! The lakefront view is breathtaking! Newport Yachtclub. 4 BRs, master w/ensuite, 2 way gas FP, & 9ft slidingdoor w/gorgeous view! Main flr is open concept w/hardwdflrs & FP in living rm, sliding doors to concrete deck in-ground lit path & fire pit at the lake’s edge. Fully finishedbasement!


12 Campview Road Stoney Creek $1,149,900

Call Today 905-945-0188


How to Sella Home ThatDidn’t SellHAMiLTON/NiAGARA – if your home has justcome off the market and hasn’t sold, don’t be dis-couraged. The reason your home did not sell mayhave nothing to do with your home or the market.in reality, your home may have been one of themost desirable properties for sale.So Why Didn’t Your Home Sell?

Last year almost half of the homes listed for salenever sold at all, and many sellers found that therewas a tremendous amount a homeowner needed tobe educated on to sell their home for top dollar inthe shortest time period.

Don’t risk making the wrong choices and losingboth time and money on your investment. Beforeyou hire a realtor, know the right questions to askto save you time and money.

industry experts have prepared a free specialreport called “How to Sell a House that Didn’t Sell”which educates you on the issues involved.

Please visit www.CouldntSell.com

MUST SELL• Estate Sales• Bank Foreclosures• Company-Owned Properties• Distress Sales

Free List with Pictures

www.HamiltonDistressSales.com

HAMiLTON - According toindustry experts, there areover 33 physical problemsthat will come under scrutinyduring a home inspectionwhen your home is for sale.A new report has been pre-pared which identifies theeleven most common ofthese problems, and whatyou should know about thembefore you list your home forsale.

Whether you own an oldhome or a brand new one,there are a number of thingsthat can fall short of require-ments during a home inspec-tion. if not dealt with, any ofthese 11 items could cost youdearly in terms of repair.That’s why it’s critical thatyou read this report beforeyou list your home. if youwait until the building inspec-tor flags these issues for you,

you will almost certainlyexperience costly delays inthe close of your home saleor, worse, turn prospectivebuyers away altogether.

in most cases, you canmake a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if youknow what you’re lookingfor, and knowing what you’relooking for can help you pre-vent little problems fromgrowing into costly and

unmanageable ones.

To help home sellers deal

with this issue before their

homes are listed, a free report

entitled “11 Things You Need

to Know to Pass Your Home

inspection” has been com-

piled which explains the

issues involved.

To order your free copy

of this report visit www.

HamiltonInspectionPitfalls.com

27 Quick &Easy Fix Ups toSell Your HomeFast and forTop DollarHAMiLTON/NiAGARA – Because your

home may well be your largest asset, sell-

ing it is probably one of the most impor-

tant decisions you will make in your life.

And once you have made that decision,

you’ll want to sell your home for the high-

est price in the shortest time possible with-

out compromising your sanity. Before you

place your home on the market, here’s a

way to help you to be as prepared as pos-

sible.

To assist homesellers, a new industry

report has just been released called “27

Valuable Tips That You Should Know to

Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top

Dollar.” it tackles the important issues you

need to know to make your home compet-

itive in today’s tough, aggressive market-

place.

Through these 27 tips, you will discov-

er how to protect and capitalize on your

most important investment, reduce stress,

be in control of your situation, and make

the most profit possible.

in this report you’ll discover how to

avoid financial disappointment or worse, a

financial disaster when selling your home.

using a common-sense approach, you get

the straight facts about what can make or

break the sale of your home.

You owe it to yourself to learn how

these important tips will give you the com-

petitive edge to get your home sold fast

and for the most amount of money.

How to order your free copy of this

report, check us out online at

www.hamilton27tips.com

11 Critical Home Inspection Traps To Be

Aware Before Listing Your Home For Sale

Fixer-upperHOMeS FOr SALe

These homes need work.Free list with pictures.

www.HamiltonFixerUpper.com

Homes For Sale

Hamilton EaSt

Bungalows/Raised Ranches

Starting at $99,900

32 Available

two Storeys

Starting at $167,000

19 Available

Semis & townHomes


32 Available

Hamilton mtn



74 Available

two Storeys


127 Available

Semis & townHomes


45 Available

Hamilton CtR


Starting at $89,900

14 Available

two Storeys

Starting at $98,000

40 Available

Semis & townHomes

Starting at $94,900

10 Available

StonEy CRk upR



11 Available

two Storeys


33 Available

Semis & townHomes


16 Available

StonEy CRk lWR



23 Available

two Storeys


72 Available

Semis & townHomes


38 Available

GRimSBy



21 Available

two Storeys


54 Available

Semis & townHomes


21 Available

linColn



34 Available

two Storeys


35 Available

Semis & townHomes


29 Available

Call Us Today for Information on Any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Bungalows & Raised Ranches Two Storeys • Semis & Town Homes

Call Today 905-945-0188www.golfiteam.com

Rob Golfi*

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

WeSt lInColn $509,9002967 South Grimsby Rd., #18

SPRAWLiNG CuSTOM BuiLT 4 LVL BACK SPLiT -Sitting on 1 acre of manicured grounds, features cathederalceilings, beautiful hardwood floors, large country sizekitchen, sun filled rec-rm, landscaped with stamped concretepatio and driveway, heated & insulated oversized garage.


GrImSby $589,900168 Saw Mill Road

BACKiNG ONTO 40 MiLE CREEK-Custom newly built 2storey country home w/detached 3 car garage sitting on 1.36acres fenced, features open concept w/large family sizekitchen & island, 4 large sunny bedrooms, professionallylandscaped, high speed internet available, close to BruceTrail and minutes to town.


GrASSIe $779,9008058 Sheridan Court

CuSTOM BuiLT BuNGALOW – Sitting on 1.5 acres inquiet cul-de-sac features 3 bedrm 2200 sq ft of luxuryliving, beautiful hardwood floors, maple kitchen withgranite counters, ensuite bath, partallialy finished basement,oversized dble garage, Less than 10 mins to QEW


SmIthVIlle $399,9007 Wade Road

OVERSiZED LOT can possibly be severed for a cornerbuilding lot or build a garage. Buyer to verify zoning reg. 4level side split in prime location on quiet deadend street. 3+2bdrms, in-ground pool, walkup from bsmt, double garage, &large driveway. updated kitchen, windows, hdwd floors androof.


GrImSby $1,669,900188 North Service Road

ONE ACRE GATED LAKEFRONT ESTATE - Features 4 bedrm home, w/fully-finished basement, 180 ft of armourrock shoreline protection. Everything has been updated fromtop to bottom in this magnificent show piece. Separatebuilding can be a boat house or studio. View pictures on line.


SmIthVIlle $399,90055 Las Road

LARGE 2750 SQ.FT. 4 BEDROOM FAMiLY HOMElocated on a quiet street in the prestigious Station Meadows.Features include hardwood flooring on both levels, largedining room, eat in kitchen, family room w/gas fireplace,unfinished basement, main floor laundry, formal livingroom, & much more.


GrImSby $324,900225 Hysert Road

GET OuT OF TOWN! 4 bdrm home sitting on 1.36 acres ofquietness, features hardwood floors, updated bathrooms, &fascia, eaves & siding, freshly painted, clean neat and tidy,30x17 ft. barn/workshop, and 3500 gal cistern. Close totown but far enough to enjoy country living.

1,398 per/mth P&I / o.A.C.

WATERFRONT

POssIBLE sEVERANcE

beAmSVIlle $329,9005074 Charles Street

GORGEOuS 3 PLuS 1 BEDRM BuNGALOW on an extralarge lot in Beamsville, updates include kitchen, flooring,windows, entry doors, bathrooms, owned hot water tank ‘09,furnace ‘08, and more. Large deck off rear patio door,mudroom, closed in sun patio, attached garage, inside entry.Possible in-law suite.


GrImSby $849,90028 Heathcote Court

SPECTACuLAR CuSTOM BuiLD backing ontoEscarpment feat. 4 bedrooms, in-ground salt water pool,formal living rm/dining rm, family rm w/fireplace and greatroom/2nd family room. Walk in from the garage to a largebasement. Loaded with updates including stainlessappliances, hardwood flooring, large eat-in kitchen w/centreisland, granite counters, slate flooring, porcelain tiles, mainfloor laundry and much more.


beAmSVIlle $399,900Academy Street

RM2 ZONiNG – ¾ acre land site centrally locateddowntown area, permitted uses apartment dwelling,boarding or lodging dwelling, home for the aged, nursinghome, group home, private home daycare. Call for details onpermitted uses.


beAmSVIlle $1,125,000P/L#23 Durham Road

ZONED LiGHT iNDuSTRiAL AND COMMERCiAL with5.5 acres and 602 feet of frontage on Durham Rd.


beAmSVIlle $159,9003 Meadowood Lane

BuiLDiNG LOT RARE FiND - Fantastic opportunity tobuild your dream home on this 50.00 X 108.00 ft lot!, Sewerand water to lot line. Buyer pays town, regional charges andpark dedication plus building permit, 4 lots available.Subject to severance in progress. HST may be applicable.


WeSt lInColn $539,9008326 3rd Concession Rd.

HuNTERS & HOBBiESTS – Everything has been done tothis 3 bedrm raised ranch with 48x32 car garage orworkshop, sitting on 10 acres with 7 acres of bush. updatesinclude windows & furnace 2011, updated kitchen cabinetswith granite counters & backsplash, professionally finishedbasement and much more.


BUILDING LOTBUILDING LOT


10 AcREs

5.5 AcREs

1.36 AcREs

1.36 AcREs1 AcRE1.5 AcRE

beAmSVIlle $429,9005356 Greenlane

uNBELiEVABLE ViEWS! 4 level sidesplit with updatedwindows and roof sitting on a generous 170 x 132 approxlot. Possible in-law suite in basement. Don’t miss out onthis sought after location.


GrImSby $474,900202 Central Ave.

BETTER THAN NEW CHARACTER HOME - Old worldcharm completely updated from top to bottom; new wiring,windows, shingles, furnace, kitchen with granite,bathrooms, refinished original hardwood floors, oak staircase, 2.5 car garage, private back yard with mature trees.Shows like a dream!


St. CAthArIneS $252,90015 Lakeside Dr., Unit 39

3 bedroom townhouse with amazing views of the lake!Resort style living. Large eat in kitchen, living room withcorner gas fireplace, updated flooring, freshly painted. in-ground pool, large courtyard, private deck off patio doors,lower level finished.


beAmSVIlle $299,9005060 Cassandra Dr., Unit 5

3 storey 1890 sq.ft. end unit freehold townhome features 9ft.ceilings, 3 great size bedrooms, master with ensuite andwalk-in closet, large eat in kitchen, rear yard backs ontopond, double car garage and minutes to all amenities. To bebuilt. Taxes are “not set”.


St. CAthArIneS $139,900130 Eastchester Ave.

DOLL HOuSE – Great starter home beautifully updated 2bedrm, 2 bath bungalow in move in condition! This homefeatures new flooring, windows, kitchen, large oversizeddetached garage, & quick access to QEW, busses andshopping.


JorDAn $534,9003662 Glen Road

RARE FiND! - Sprawling bungalow sitting on half acreravine lot. 3+1 BR, large finished basement, landscapedyard w/treed ravine backdrop, great family home w/largeaddition to the rear, custom oak finishes w/large dining &Florida room overlooking the backyard. These kind ofproperties rarely come up for sale!


Fort erIe $849,9001645 Niagara Parkway

CuSTOM BuiLT HOME facing the Niagara River, fourlarge bedrooms, plus finished attic with roughed in bath fora fifth bedroom. Solid oak doors and trim throughout.unspoiled basement with walkout. New C/A, Furnace ‘01.Roof ‘05. Does not disappoint!


WATERFRONT

Call Today 905-575-7700

YTD Comparison Listed Expired Sold Average Selling Average Days Selling % ofAREA May 2014 / 2013 YTD YTD YTD Price on Market List Price

ANCASTER 2014 129 15 78 $493,883 34 98%

(DISTRICT 42) 2013 114 11 85 $494,782 46 97%

BURLINGTON 2014 501 20 388 $479,601 29 99%

(DIST. 30 to 36 & 38) 2013 503 23 369 $501,039 31 98%

DUNDAS 2014 48 2 39 $387,638 33 100%

(DISTRICT 41) 2013 46 0 39 $374,913 34 98%

GLANBROOK 2014 68 3 45 $362,163 53 98%

(DISTRICT 53) 2013 66 11 39 $354,714 53 98%

GRIMSBY 2014 61 5 39 $380,554 31 97%

(DISTRICT 54,55) 2013 66 7 49 $327,909 38 98%

HAMILTON EAST 2014 128 5 96 $224,721 33 98%

(DIST. 23,24,27,28,29) 2013 125 5 80 $219,483 30 97%

HAMILTON WEST 2014 109 6 82 $335,675 33 99%

(DIST. 10, 11, 12) 2013 105 9 74 $350,870 42 99%

HAMILTON MTN 2014 316 18 223 $302,146 24 99%

(DIST. 15,16,17,18,25,26) 2013 242 15 220 $284,413 29 99%

HAMILTON CTRL 2014 168 7 113 $218,271 28 98%

(DIST. 13,14,20,21,22) 2013 149 20 97 $175,619 28 99%

BEAMSVILLE 2014 31 3 20 $340,185 20 100%

(DISTRICT 981) 2013 20 3 16 $311,442 69 98%

WEST LINCOLN 2014 8 1 4 $343,125 51 98%

(DISTRICT 56, 982) 2013 13 0 11 $385,086 82 97%

SMITHVILLE 2014 13 0 10 $261,525 46 98%

(DISTRICT 57) 2013 13 0 11 $289,793 44 97%

STONEY CREEK 2014 168 11 133 $352,700 33 98%

(DISTRICT 50,51,52) 2013 143 9 119 $320,051 38 98%

P R E S E N T E D B Y T H E G O L F I T E A M

Municipal Year-to-Date StatisticsMay 2013 vs May 2014

Based on sales data on all home sales from May 2013 vs May 2014, REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington


Check out the Top Real Estate Site for Hamilton Wentworth!

www.GolfiTeam.com

New Sales Record Set in May

Th eR E A L -TORS®

Association ofH a m i l t o n -

Burlington (RAHB) reported 1660property sales were processedthrough the RAHB Multiple ListingService® (MLS®) system in May.This represents a 4.1 per centincrease in sales compared to Mayof last year and sets a new record forsales in any month.

There were 2458 properties listedin May, an increase of eight per centover the same month last year. End-of-month listing inventory was fourper cent lower than last year at thesame time.

“Spring weather may have taken

its time in arriving, but the springreal estate market certainly took offin May,” said RAHB CEO RossGodsoe. “We didn’t just trip overthe record set in 2009; we beat it by3.5 per cent.”

Seasonally adjusted* sales of res-idential properties were 8.1 per centhigher than the same month lastyear, with the average sale pricedown 1.8 per cent for the month.Seasonally adjusted numbers ofnew listings were 12 per cent higherthan the same month last year.

Actual overall residential saleswere 4.6 per cent higher than theprevious year at the same time andset a new record for residential salesin any month. Residential freeholdsales were 2.6 per cent higher than

last year while the condominiummarket saw an increase of 12.9 percent in sales. The average price offreehold properties showed adecrease of 2.3 per cent comparedto the same month last year; theaverage sale price in the condomini-um market decreased less than oneper cent when compared to the sameperiod last year.

The average sale price is basedon the total dollar volume of allproperties sold in the RAHB marketarea. Average sale price informa-tion can be useful in establishinglong term trends, but should not beused as an indicator that specificproperties have increased ordecreased in value.

“Having record-setting sales isn’t

the whole story,” added Godsoe.“There was also a bump in the num-ber of new listings during the monthof May. it wasn’t record-setting,but new listings were higher thanthe 10-year average for the month.That may account for the slightdecrease in average sale price com-pared to May of last year.”

The average days on the marketdecreased from 39 to 34 days inthe freehold market and from 37 to36 days in the condominium mar-ket.

Year to date, listings are less thanone per cent lower than the sameJanuary-to-May period a year ago.Sales are two per cent higher andthe average sale price is five percent higher for the period.

www.GolfiTeam.com

Crossword puzzle

Across

1 Visually striking performance (9)

8 Female ruff (5)

9 Shoulder blade (7)

10 (technologically) highly advanced(5,3)

11 large brown leathery seaweed(4)

13 Spoilt (6)

14 Dash — profession (6)

16 Card game (4)

17 Work-shy (8)

19 Heavy corrosion-resistant metal,used in alloys (7)

20 Rinse (anag) — sea nymph (5)

21 in a socially refined way (9)

Down

1 Red's week (anag) (8)

2 Junior uS naval officer (6)

3 light horse-drawn carriage (4)

4 incident that attracts great publicattention (5,7)

5 irksome (12)

6 Reproduction of commemorativeplaques on paper (5,7)

7 Beheading (12)

12 Well — in a way that's wellknown (8)

15 living organism (6)

18 uS 10 cent coin (4)

the Solution

17 6 43

3 2 5 62 9

7 31 4

5 6 8 92 5 4 7

1 8

SUDOKUSUDOKU

762481 593

591764 382

348917 256

624378 915

817652 439

935126 874

456839 127

289543 76

173295 648

1

6

Fill in the grid above, so that

each row of 9 squares, each

column of nine and each

section of nine (three squares by

three) contains the numbers

1 through 9 in any order. there

is only one solution for the

puzzle and the numbers shown

can not be changed.

(Solution on Page 8)


We SELL more...because we DO more!

RoB GolFiSAlES REpRESEnTATIVE

www.golfiteam.com | 905.575.7700 | 1.800.288.9184

SHARON

STAFFORD

CHRISTINE

SERAFINI

HANS

MARCELISSEN

ERIC PINI, B.A.

WENDY

MURRAY-

NICHOLSON

LAURA BIELAK

MIKE MCNEIL

SAM ASSADI

DAN GOLFI

JENNIFER

DRAHO

JEFF GOLFI

THE ULTIMATE

SELLING TEAM

Ontario’s Advice on Home Inspection…

Agood home inspection help home-buyers make informed decisions.They can help you understand a

home’s condition.if you are selling your home, an

inspection can help you determine itsvalue.

What is a home inspection?A home inspection is an on-site, in-

person examination of a home’s condi-tion and structure. it is a visual inspectionof major elements and systems, like thefoundation, the electrical and plumbingsystems, the attic ventilation and the roof.

A home inspection is not a pass or failtest. it doesn’t assess if a home meetszoning or building codes.

A home inspector will typically exam-ine the:• foundation• doors and windows• roof (if they are able and it is safe to

do so)• exterior walls• attics• plumbing and electrical systems

(where visible)• heating and air conditioning systems• ceilings, walls and floors• insulation (where visible)• ventilation systems• drainage away from buildings, slopes

and natural vegetation• overall assessment of structural

integrity of the building(s)• common areas in a condominium

Home inspectors complete a report ofthe property’s condition, as observed at

the time of inspection. it will normallyshow:• the condition of every major system

and component of the home• areas or parts of a home that are

unsafe, need to be repaired orreplaced, or may need to be repairedor replaced in the near future

• if something is not working properly,is unsafe, or needs to be changed

• any evidence of past problemsAfter getting the results of a home

inspection, a buyer may decide to:• ask the seller to make certain repairs• accept a defect and deal with its con-

sequences• ask for a price adjustment• not buy the home

Some sellers may have an inspectiondone before selling a home. Althoughseeing a current inspection report can behelpful, buyers should have their ownhome inspection done too.

it is important for a homebuyer to bepresent during an inspection. This givesthem a chance to ask questions and seeany issues first hand.

You should also keep in mind that:• an inspector cannot see or find every-

thing. For example, they may not findmould or may not be able to be able toinspect a roof that is covered withsnow

• an inspector does not provide war-ranties or guarantees on a home’s con-dition

• inspectors are not required by law tohave insurance coverage. However,many do have policies that can includegeneral liability or errors and omis-

sions coverage• home inspection fees range from $350

to $600 and may be higher, dependingon the size and condition of the home

Hiring a home inspectorYou will need to do some research to

find a reliable, experienced and knowl-edgeable home inspector.

Look for a home inspector who:• provides written inspection reports• will give you references• has experience with the type of home

you’re considering (e.g. condos, her-itage era homes, cottages)

• has an accreditation that shows train-ing and experience

• will provide a written contractWhen hiring a home inspector make

sure to:• get quotes from more than 1 inspector• check references• ask about their training and experience• ask to see a copy of the inspection

report they use• ask if they choose to have insurance

At this time, Ontario does not havemandatory requirements for homeinspectors. However, there are manytraining programs and courses thatinspectors can take to gain knowledgeand understanding of home design, con-struction, operation, maintenance andcommon defects.

For more information on buying ahome, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/con-sumers/buying-home

Call Today 905-575-7700

How to Win when you go to Small Claims CourtHome buyers will typically sue sellers in Small Claims Court over problems that arise after closing when the amount in dispute is $25,000 or less.

Home buyers will typically sue sellersin small claims court over problems thatarise after closing when the amount indispute is $25,000 or less.

The main reason is that you can makethe claim without a lawyer and the costsare relatively cheap. But even though youdon’t need a lawyer, you are much betteroff with some professional advice, eitherfrom a lawyer or paralegal.

That’s because there are common mis-takes people make when doing this bythemselves.

Here are some of them:People forget that most lawsuits must

be brought within two years or you forfeityour ability to sue.

People do not sue the right person; forexample, they sue a corporation withoutthe word “Limited” at the end. Any judg-ment obtained may be worthless.

They don’t provide enough evidenceto justify their claim, including invoices,receipts and a clear explanation of thesequence of events.

Michael Abrams, a paralegal at abram-slegal.com says that since small claimscourt hearings are open to the public, it isa good idea for anyone thinking about fil-ing a claim to go watch a learn to see howthey work and what the judge wants anddoesn’t want.

A paralegal or lawyer will reviewwhether your claim and give you an opin-ion of its merit, but more importantly,will ask whether you will be able to col-lect any money if you win.

if you win in court, sometimes aftertwo years, the judge does not ask theloser for a cheque. You have to collectthis money separately.

There is little point spending moneyand time to get a judgment against some-one if you can’t collect. To garnishwages, you need to know where theywork. To go after their bank accounts,you need to know where they bank. To goafter real estate, you need to know wherethey may own property.

The cost to file a claim in Small

Claims Court is $75.To file a defence costs $40. if you use

a lawyer or paralegal and you win, the feewill vary up to $2,500 but if you do win,you can ask the judge for part of yourcosts, up to 15 per cent of the actualclaim.

But judges have a lot of discretion tovary this amount up or down. For exam-ple, if you make an offer of settlementthat is refused and you end up gettingmore at trial, you can ask for double thefee.

Jordan Farkas, a lawyer with mrsmall-claimscourt.ca offers these tips:

Your claim is the first document thatwill be read by the judge. Make sure it isnot scribbled in a hurry. Make it clear andattach all receipts or documents that sup-port what you are asking for.

Every case will have a pre-trial settle-ment conference to try and settle the mat-ter. Be prepared for this. Review youropponent’s evidence at the hearing andask questions, so that you will not be sur-prised by anything at the trial.

Make sure that any final argument youmake at trial is supported by the evi-dence, receipts or invoices, so that itclearly sets out your position.

Also remember before making anyclaim that most judgments become avail-able on the internet. if you lose, a lot ofpeople may read about it.

Be prepared before going to SmallClaims Court, so that you have your bestchance to succeed.

Mark Weisleder is a Toronto realestate lawyer. Contact him [email protected]

Crossword Solution

From the Editor

We recently received corre-spondence referring to anarticle in our June 2 issue

recommending hiring a homeinspector, and said writer’s badexperience doing so. When i rec-ommend hiring a home inspector, inaturally mean one that comes wellrecommended by someone youtrust, whether that is your realtor, afamily member or a friend.

unquestionably, home ownersneed to do their due diligence whenhiring from within this largelyunregulated field. By that i meanget a referral, interview your poten-tial inspector, find out how long heor she has been doing inspections,ensure that your inspector carrieserrors and omissions insurance, bewith the inspector during theinspection, ask if they are affiliatedwith any professional inspectionorganizations such as OntarioAssociation of Registered Homeinspectors and check to see if theyoffer any guarantees. The profes-sion may be unregulated but there’sa lot you can do to ensure that yourinspector is reputable.

The option of hiring individualprofessionals to inspect a home’splumbing, electrical, HVAC andcarpentry is a good one. Thisundoubtedly would be the bestinspection ever, however, it wouldlikely be costly and very time con-suming. Hiring a professional con-tractor to check your home’splumbing, for example, would like-ly run you a few hundred dollars.Now take that amount and multiplyit by four or five to cover off eachaspect of your property and youhave an inspection approaching$1000.

We’ve all experienced the diffi-culty during the best of times of try-ing to convince contractors to visitour homes in a timely fashion to fixa problem or give a quote on a jobthat needs doing. How quick do youthink they would be to show up toassess your heating and coolingsystem for a few hundred dollars?While waiting you could potential-ly lose out on the house you lovebecause another buyer beat you tothe punch.

By: Rob Golfi


Stoney Creek $1,149,90012 Campview Road

Extraordinary 1/3 acre WATERFRONT home on quietprivate road w/2 storey grand foyer! Breath-taking views ofLake Ontario & CN Tower. Open concept, 9' ceilings,Gourmet kitch w/granite counters. 3 BRs, 3 full baths, 2ndfloor ldry. Master suite w/walk-in closet & ensuite.Backyard professionally landscaped.

Call Today 905-575-7700

Rob Golfi*

Hamilton, Stoney CreekAncaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

bInbrook $389,900260 Binbrook Road

“OuT” BuT NOT “FAR OuT” – Half acre beauty w/thesweet smell of country all around, spacious 4 lvl side splitfeatures lrg. living rm w/new bay window, cozy family rmw/showcase gas fireplace, bedrooms w/original hardwoodflrs, updated bathrm, private yard, & oversized dble garage.


Stoney Creek $399,900723 Ridge Road

BEAuTiFuL ESCAPRMENT ViEWS! Prime location onRidge Road, close to all amenities. This property has a homesuitable for renting or building your dream home. Buyer tosatisfy themselves with building permits & costs.


Stoney Creek $599,90014891/2 #8 Hwy

OuTSTANDiNG & iMMACuLATE custom built 1760sq.ft. all brick bungalow sitting on one acre with 3 cargarage, featuring beautiful hardwood through-out, stylishkitchen with granite counter tops, main floor laundry,partially finished basement with 3pc bath & rough in forkitchen.


hAmIlton eASt $117,90095 Hope Avenue

CuTE ONE FLOOR PLAN, and same owners for 24 years!!Front concrete drive, nice fenced in backyard w/slidingdoors from kitchen, new windows and doors. Great location,close to new Centre Mall and parks.


hAmIlton mtn $299,900425 East 15th Street

CuSTOM BuiLT BuNGALOW ON HAMiLTONMOuNTAiN!! Original owner, detached garage with hydro,big concrete drive, poured concrete foundation with a 200sq.ft. cold room. Side entrance and full 3 piece bath in lowerlevel. Could be in-law setup or rental! Very well maintained!


hAmIlton Ctr $279,900187 Sanford Avenue North

GREAT iNVESTMENT OPPORTuNiTY! Currently usedas 3 family home. updates include furnace, water heater,and roof (2011). Basement unit $750, Main unit $950,upper unit $1200. Tenants willing to stay.


hAmIlton mtn $320,000754 Stone Church Road East

iMMACuLATE AND uPDATED!! This home has beenwell cared for and backs onto an empty lot. Family roomw/fireplace. Recent updates: kitchen w/new cabinets,backsplash & quartz counters, shingles 2013, furnace 2009,windows 2009/14, flooring, insulation, and big cedar shedw/overhang.


hAmIlton mtn $339,900193 Parkwood Crescent

FANTASTiC LOCATiON!! Walk to Limeridge mall &parks. This home features a spiral staircase, main floorfamily room w/gas fireplace, separate dining room, laundrywas on the main LVL and can be moved back, large partiallyfinished bsmt and fenced rear yard with deck. Shinglesreplaced in 2002.


hAmIlton mtn $229,900397 East 21st Street

Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath family home close to LimeridgeMall and located on a quiet cove with plenty of updates.Newly painted ’14, newer carpet & laminate ’13, windows’02, roof ’01, added insulation to attic ’02, & siding ’05.Beautiful front garden and rear yard w/shed & fenced yard.Move in ready!


hAmIlton eASt $269,90056 Potruff Road South

CHARACTER HOME iN A GREAT LOCATiON! Not acookie cutter home, loads of character & charm, mostlyfinished basement, w/private rear yard leading to a ravine.Minutes to Red Hill Valley Parkway, walking trails &shopping. updates include: shingles 2010, furnace 2011, &most windows.


hAmIlton eASt $949,9001089 Beach Boulevard

TRENDY BEACH BLVD – Spectacular & luxurious bestdescribes this awesome beauty! Executive free holdtownhome on waterfront trail with top quality finishesthrough-out, quartz, marble, porcelain, crown moulding, andoversized terraces, steps away to downtown Burlington &quick access to QEW


Stoney Creek $619,90071 Richmond Crescent

CuSTOM BuiLT! 3500+ sq. ft. home features LR/DR w/vaultedceilings, 3 way gas fireplace, main flr den & laundry, eat-in kitchen,oak cupboards & moveable island, prof. landscaped groundsw/sprinkler system, in ground pool, waterfall & shed w/shower.Family rm, 2nd flr loft, master bedrm w/ensuite, more bedrms &bonus room over garage. Lower level in-law suite. Loads of extras!


hAmIlton mtn $499,90022 McIntosh Avenue

DESiRABLE WEST MOuNTAiN 2600 sq.ft. 4+1 BRhome w/3.5 baths features living & dining room comboalong w/a main floor family rm w/gas fireplace, Master BRw/walk-in closet & separate jetted tub. Fully finishedbasement with 3pc bath, bedrm and rec room. Fabuloushome for the growing or lrg family!



THiS iS A 10++ located at Newport Yacht Club, biggest lot!Private Marina, new $60,000 designer gourmet kitchen withtop of the line sub zero fridge & wine storage, wolfe 6burner gas stove, miele dishwasher, granite counter top withbuilt in island!


hAmIlton eASt $179,900100 Quigley Road, Unit 63

End unit on Ravine! Many updates: patio door 2013,windows 2005, Furnace & CAC 2007, new garage door &opener installed June 4/’14, bath 2009, Granite 2013, flringon main flr‎ 2009! Gas stove! Backs onto Red hill Creek!Lots of playgrounds nearby! Well maintained come see itbefore it's too late!


bInbrook $499,90076 Fowler Drive

SPECTACuLAR, luxurious & immaculate 2975 sq.ft. ofluxury, features gorgeous hardwd flrs on main lvl, beautifuloak kitchen cabinets with chefs desk large pantry, breakfastbar & granite counters tops, main floor den, oak staircase,landscaped with patterned concrete patio and fenced yard.


WATERFRONT


TRIPLEX

hAmIlton Ctr $294,900673 King Street East

LOCATiON LOCATiON LOCATiON! This incrediblymaintained 2200 sq.ft. corner property with commercialfrontage and 2 additional apartments features fantasticincome, close to Cathedral high school, new roof 4yrs new,14 ft ceilings, hardwd flrs, full basement with newer wiring& parking space in the back.


POOL

WATERFRONT

bInbrook $446,900117 Tanglewood Drive

STuNNiNG 4 BEDRM family home loaded with upgrades,new hardwood flooring, granite counters, upgraded 2 piecebathroom, finished basement, large fenced private yard.Large office in basement could be a 5th bedroom.


hAmIlton WeSt $479,90014 Cottrill Street

McMaster Student Rental! Best location for student rental atMac, on university side of Main Street. Same owner for 32years, numerous updates with big garage. Three rooms notyet rented. $3000.00 a month income & students payutilities. Walk to university, shopping and on main bus line.


HouseMaster is proud to be the oldest and most experienced name in home inspections. The HouseMaster Franchise System has over 35 years of home inspection experience. HouseMaster offices have collectively performed over 2 million inspections, continuing a long tradition of quality and integrity. HouseMaster provides home buyers and sellers an independent, third-party, professional evaluation of the condition of the major elements of a home and serves the Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas. We are number one in North America for customer satisfaction for a reason - let us show you why! 7

Open seven

days a week. Call 905-689-4663 today

for more information about our services, or to book your inspection.

Home InspectionImagine having nothing to eat.

Over the last 2 years, the Golfi Team proudly helped raise over 5680 lbs of food for local food bank.

Please donate to your local food bank –it’s the neighbourly thing to do.

www.GolfiTeam.com

MarketplaceMarketplace

HOME STAGING

Jacqueline Paradisi

Paul lewis SettimiBarrister, Solicitor and Notary Public

8 Main Street East, Suite 303Hamilton, Ontario L8N 1E8Bus: 905-527-0808Fax: 905-527-0774

20 Main Street WestGrimsby, Ontario L3M 1R4

Bus: 289-235-7500Fax: 905-527-0774

real estate lawyer

[email protected]

Advertise HereFor information on advertising in the

market Watch, contact

Rose Magroemail: [email protected]

cell: 905-745-0122

MenusOnly.com is an online restaurant menu guide connecting youwith great restaurants in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. Browsethrough restaurant menus, view pictures of restaurant dining areas,patios, and menu items, and print local restaurant coupons all in oneplace. MenusOnly.com – a perfect dining experience starts here.

Buying a home through us?

provides “Peace

of Mind”


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july 4, 2014 issue 97

Documents

real estate career

testimonialdear rob

rob alsoprides

rob golfirobs career

real estatebegan

rob isranked number

golfi teamwas

diamond club