Hosting friends and family during the holidays in Grey Bruce, Ontario, can be a delightful experience with the right local recommendations. Here are some top picks to make your gatherings memorable:
Bruce Wine Bar in Thornbury is an excellent choice for cocktails. Known for its cozy atmosphere and creative drink menu, this spot offers a delightful selection of local and global wines, as well as expertly crafted cocktails that capture the essence of the season.
For out-of-town guests, Blue Mountain Village is a must-visit destination. This vibrant area offers a mix of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, making it perfect for exploring. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views, seasonal events, and a variety of restaurants to choose from.
Jazzmyns in Owen Sound is a stylish venue that combines great food with live music. Known for its creative pub eats and vibrant atmosphere, it frequently hosts local musicians, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a night out filled with entertainment.
Kettles Back Home Cookin‘, located in just outside of Chatsworth, is perfect for large gatherings. This family-friendly restaurant is known for its hearty portions and homestyle cooking. With a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse menu featuring all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, it can comfortably accommodate groups looking to enjoy a delicious meal together.
After a hearty holiday meal, take a leisurely stroll through Harrison Park in Owen Sound. This scenic park features beautiful trails along the Sydenham River, providing the perfect setting to enjoy nature.
For last-minute holiday shopping, downtown Markdale is the place to be. This charming area is filled with shops that include a home decor store, bookstore, toy store, and more. It’s an excellent spot to find unique gifts while supporting local businesses during the festive season.
These local spots will help you create unforgettable holiday memories with your loved ones in Grey Bruce! Follow me on social media @susanmoffatc21 for more local recommendations and real estate updates.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
The Bank of Canada (BoC) has made a significant move in its final interest rate announcement of 2024, cutting the key policy rate by 50 basis points to 3.25%14. This marks the fifth consecutive rate cut since June, signaling the central bank’s ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth and maintain inflation near its 2% target.
This rate cut could have significant implications for the Canadian housing market:
The Bank of Canada’s next interest rate announcement is scheduled for January 29, 202510. Market watchers will be closely monitoring economic indicators and the Federal Reserve’s decisions in the coming weeks to gauge the potential for further rate adjustments.
While this rate cut from the Bank of Canada aims to boost economic activity, its full impact on the real estate market and broader economy remains to be seen. Prospective homebuyers and investors should stay informed and consider how these changes might affect their plans. As always, consulting with financial and real estate professionals is advisable when making significant decisions in light of these economic shifts.
Read the Press Release.
Whether you’re a homeowner, prospective buyer, or real estate investor, understanding these market changes is crucial. As your trusted REALTOR®, I’m here to help you navigate these shifts and make informed decisions! Call, text, email, or DM me to chat about how this announcement affects your real estate plans!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
In today’s hot real estate market, securing your dream home often requires more than just offering the highest price. While the amount you’re willing to pay is undoubtedly crucial, savvy buyers know that there are several other ways to make their offers more appealing to sellers. Let’s explore some effective strategies to sweeten your offer without necessarily raising the price.
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your offer is to align it with the seller’s specific needs and circumstances. For instance, the closing date can be a significant factor for many sellers. If they’re relocating for work or have already purchased another property, flexibility on the closing date could be extremely attractive. By accommodating their preferred timeline, you’re offering a valuable benefit that goes beyond just the sale price.
Sellers want assurance that the sale will go through smoothly. One of the best ways to provide this peace of mind is by having your finances in order. Consider these steps:
Think creatively about what else you can bring to the table:
Remember, in a competitive market, it’s not always about offering the highest price. By understanding and addressing the seller’s needs, demonstrating your financial readiness, and offering attractive terms, you can make your offer stand out even if it’s not the highest bid on the table. Always work closely with your REALTOR® to craft the most compelling offer possible for your specific situation.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
OnePoint Association of REALTORS® – Grey Bruce and Owen Sound MLS® home sales rocket up to above-average levels in November.
The number of homes sold in Grey Bruce and Owen Sound via the MLS® System of the OnePoint Association of REALTORS® totaled 228 units in November 2024. This was an advance of 43.4% from November 2023. Home sales were 10.1% above the five-year average and 4.7% above the 10-year average for the month of November. On a year-to-date basis, home sales totaled 2,452 units over the first 11 months of the year. This was up by 6.1% from the same period in 2023.
“Sales activity shot up in November with an unexpected strength, putting us back above typical levels for this time of year,” said Bonnie Looby, President of the OnePoint Association of REALTORS®. “With interest rates gradually winding down we knew that buyers would come back to the market, but we weren’t anticipating this kind of rush so soon. There could be a sense of FOMO among younger first-timers, or keen buyers who are trying to get in before the combination of mortgage regulation changes and further interest rate cuts spur even more competition for demand. In any case, our market is looking very active as we head into what is usually a quieter time of year.”
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) tracks price trends far more accurately than is possible using average or median price measures. The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was $563,900 in November 2024, down only 0.2% compared to November 2023.
The benchmark price for single-family homes was $572,100, nearly unchanged, down only 0.2% on a year-over-year basis in November. By comparison, the benchmark price for townhouse/row units was $479,900, a minor decrease of 2.9% compared to a year earlier, while the benchmark apartment price was $370,400, a slight gain of 0.9% from year-ago levels.
The average price of homes sold in November 2024 was $668,026, a minor increase of 1.4% from November 2023. The more comprehensive year-to-date average price was $646,786, a small gain of 1.5% from the first 11 months of 2023. The dollar value of all home sales in November 2024 was $152.3 million, a substantial gain of 45.3% from the same month in 2023.
The number of new listings saw a modest gain of 3.1% (10 listings) from November 2023. There were 334 new residential listings in November 2024. This was the largest number of new listings added in the month of November in more than a decade. New listings were 15.7% above the five-year average and 28.7% above the 10-year average for the month of November.
Active residential listings numbered 1,168 units on the market at the end of November, up modestly by 3.7% from the end of November 2023. Active listings haven’t been this high in the month of November in more than five years. Active listings were 43.2% above the five-year average and 27.3% above the 10-year average for the month of November.
Months of inventory numbered 5.1 at the end of November 2024, down from the 7.1 months recorded at the end of November 2023 and above the long-run average of 4.5 months for this time of year. The number of months of inventory is the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current rate of sales activity.
(1) Sales / new listings * 100; compared to levels from previous periods. (2) Active listings at month end / monthly sales; compared to levels from previous periods. (3) Sale price / list price * 100; average for all homes sold in the current month.
OnePoint Association of REALTORS® serves as a unified body representing almost 3,000 real estate professionals across the regions of Huron, Perth, Grey, Bruce, Wellington, Georgian Bay, Simcoe, Parry Sound, Haliburton and Muskoka.
Related: October 2024 Real Estate Market Update
Wondering how these numbers might impact your real estate plans? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about market trends, I’ve got you covered! Let’s navigate the market together! Contact me for a complimentary, no-obligation property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Planning a vacation is exciting, but keeping your home safe while you’re away is crucial. Here are essential home security tips to help protect your property during your time off.
Before leaving, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. Don’t forget about garage doors, pet doors, and any accessible ground-level entry points. For added security, consider disconnecting electronic garage door openers to prevent unauthorized access.
A robust home security system can deter potential burglars and provide peace of mind. Look for systems that include features like motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and smart locks that can be monitored remotely. This way, you can keep an eye on your home from anywhere
To give the impression that someone is home, leave a few lights on or set them on timers. Additionally, consider using smart plugs to control electronics like TVs or radios remotely. A parked car in the driveway can also enhance this effect.
An overflowing mailbox or a pile of newspapers signals to burglars that you’re away. To prevent this, either ask a trusted neighbour to collect your mail or contact the post office and newspaper service to hold deliveries until you return.
Store valuable items like jewelry and electronics in a safe or lockbox, preferably out of sight from windows. This reduces the temptation for thieves looking for easy targets.
Avoid posting about your vacation plans on social media until after you return. Broadcasting your absence can attract unwanted attention from potential burglars.
Install motion-sensor lights around your property or use timers for outdoor lighting to create the illusion of activity when it gets dark. This can deter intruders who prefer to operate under the cover of darkness.
Enlist friends or neighbours to check on your home periodically while you’re away. They can collect mail, water plants, and maintain the appearance of occupancy, which is a strong deterrent against break-ins.
If you’re particularly concerned about security, consider hiring a house sitter who can live in your home while you’re away. This option provides continuous oversight and care for pets and plants.
Before you leave, ensure your homeowner’s insurance policy is up-to-date and covers theft or damage adequately. This preparation will provide additional peace of mind while you’re away.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that you’ve taken proactive steps to secure your home against potential threats. Finally, experts recommend creating a home security checklist, so you don’t forget anything. That alone will give you peace-of-mind. Safe travels!
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Attending an open house can be an exciting experience, but it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to ask crucial questions about the property. As your trusted Grey Bruce REALTOR®, I want to ensure you’re fully prepared to make an informed decision. Here are some essential questions that buyers often overlook during open houses:
These questions can give you insight into potential future expenses and the overall condition of the home’s critical systems.
Be specific about kitchen appliances, gas-connected BBQs, chandeliers, and window coverings. Knowing what stays and what goes can help you budget for any necessary purchases after moving in.
Understanding the property’s value relative to the local market is crucial for making a competitive offer. Ask about amenities, safety, traffic patterns, access to public transit, and property turnover rates. These factors can significantly impact your daily life and the property’s long-term value.
Remember, an open house can feel hectic, especially if it’s a property you love. You might feel pressured to make an offer quickly, but it’s crucial to take your time, ask the right questions, and consider your decision carefully. You don’t want to discover important details after it’s too late.
As your REALTOR®, I’m here to help you navigate these questions and ensure you have all the information you need to make the best decision. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance during your home search or have any questions about the buying process. Happy house hunting!
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
As a REALTOR®, I understand that selling your home during the holiday season can present unique challenges and opportunities. While many homeowners may hesitate to list their properties during this festive time, there are numerous advantages to doing so. Motivated buyers are actively searching for homes, and with the right strategies, you can ensure your listing stands out. Here are my top tips for successfully listing your home during the holidays.
Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial, especially during the holiday season. An experienced REALTOR® like me can provide valuable market insights and tailored strategies to attract buyers. I will work closely with you to create a customized marketing plan that highlights your home’s best features while navigating the seasonal market dynamics.
Pricing your home correctly is essential for attracting serious buyers. During the holidays, competition may be lower, which means a well-priced home can stand out significantly. I will conduct a thorough market analysis to help you set a competitive price that reflects current trends while maximizing your return.
First impressions matter, especially in winter when landscapes can appear stark. Make sure your home’s exterior is well-maintained by clearing walkways of snow and debris and ensuring that landscaping is tidy. Adding tasteful holiday decorations can create an inviting atmosphere without overwhelming potential buyers.
While it’s tempting to go all out with holiday decor, it’s important to keep it simple and neutral. I recommend using elegant decorations that enhance your home’s features rather than distract from them. This approach allows potential buyers to envision their own holiday celebrations in the space.
During showings, aim to create a cozy environment that makes buyers feel at home. Consider lighting a fire in the fireplace, playing soft music, or baking cookies. These small touches can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.
High-quality photos are essential for online listings, especially during the holidays when many buyers begin their search digitally. I work with professional photographers who can capture your home’s essence and highlight its festive charm while maintaining its appeal year-round.
In today’s digital age, many buyers prefer virtual tours over in-person visits—especially during the busy holiday season. I can help create engaging video tours that allow potential buyers to explore your home from the comfort of their own devices, increasing interest even when foot traffic is lower.
Understanding that potential buyers have busy schedules filled with holiday activities is key to securing showings. I encourage flexibility in scheduling appointments, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate their needs and increase your chances of attracting serious interest.
If your home boasts features that shine in winter—like a cozy fireplace or energy-efficient heating—make sure these are emphasized in your listings and during showings. Highlighting these aspects can enhance your home’s appeal and justify a stronger price point.
Finally, remember that selling during the holidays may take time, but staying positive and patient is essential. The right buyer may come along when you least expect it, so trust the process and lean on my expertise as we navigate this unique selling season together.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively market your home during the holiday season while creating an inviting atmosphere that resonates with potential buyers. If you’re ready to list your home or have any questions about the selling process, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary, no-obligation property valuation!
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Gravel driveways are a common feature in many properties across Grey Bruce, offering rural charm and practicality for homeowners. However, maintaining these driveways is essential to ensure they remain functional and visually appealing. With proper care, you can prevent issues like potholes, uneven surfaces, and weed growth. Here are some effective tips for maintaining your gravel driveway:
Routine raking is crucial for keeping your gravel driveway neat and even. Use a sturdy rake to spread the gravel evenly and fill in any low spots or ruts. This practice helps maintain a smooth surface, preventing puddles and uneven areas that can lead to further deterioration.
Over time, gravel can shift or become displaced due to weather conditions and vehicle movement. To refresh your driveway, consider topping it up with fresh gravel every couple of years. This not only enhances its appearance but also ensures a consistent surface. When adding new gravel, make sure to spread it evenly to avoid creating bumps or dips.
Weeds can quickly invade gravel driveways, detracting from their visual appeal. Regularly inspect your driveway for any emerging weeds and remove them promptly. Installing a weed control fabric beneath the gravel during the initial setup can significantly reduce weed growth in the long run.
Maintaining clean edges along your driveway is vital for a polished look. Use a spade or edging tool to redefine the borders, preventing gravel from spreading into surrounding areas like lawns or flower beds. This not only enhances the driveway’s appearance but also helps keep it organized.
Good drainage is essential to avoid water pooling on your driveway, which can lead to erosion and surface damage. Ensure that your driveway has a slight slope to facilitate drainage, or consider installing a drainage system to redirect water away from the surface. Addressing drainage issues promptly can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Periodically cleaning your gravel driveway can help maintain its appearance. Use a gentle cleaning detergent for stubborn stains and rinse with a hose or pressure washer at low pressure to avoid scattering the gravel. Regular cleaning not only keeps the driveway looking fresh but also helps prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
As seasons change, so do the maintenance needs of your gravel driveway. Before winter, prepare your driveway by pulling gravel that has been pushed off the edges back toward the centre. In spring, assess any damage caused by winter weather and make necessary repairs, including adding a top dressing of gravel if needed.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your gravel driveway remains functional and attractive for years to come. Regular maintenance not only enhances curb appeal but also contributes to the overall value of your property.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
MLS® home sales continue to surge for second straight month in October 2024.
The number of homes sold in Grey Bruce and Owen Sound via the MLS® System of the OnePoint Association of REALTORS® totaled 238 units in October 2024. This was up sharply by 32.2% from October 2023.
Home sales were 7.1% below the five-year average and 13.3% below the 10-year average for the month of October.
On a year-to-date basis, home sales totaled 2,224 units over the first 10 months of the year. This was a minor increase of 3.5% from the same period in 2023.
“Sales activity kept up the increased momentum in October after surging in September, with sales now almost back on par with typical levels for this time of year,” said Bonnie Looby, President of the OnePoint Association of REALTORS®. “New listings are still coming on strong, with October posted almost the highest level for this month on record. With demand having recovered as much as it has in the past two months, inventory levels are now trending sideways, and the market is firmly back in balanced territory. We expect similar trends to play out over the remainder of the year and will be keeping a close eye on the Bank of Canada’s next rate announcement in December.”
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) tracks price trends far more accurately than is possible using average or median price measures. The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was $571,000 in October 2024, essentially unchanged, down just 0.6% compared to October 2023.
The benchmark price for single-family homes was $579,600, a slight reduction of 0.6% on a year-over-year basis in October. By comparison, the benchmark price for townhouse/row units was $477,100, edging down 0.1% compared to a year earlier, while the benchmark apartment price was $376,300, a modest gain of 3.4% from year-ago levels.
The average price of homes sold in October 2024 was $642,622, a slight reduction of 0.9% from October 2023. The more comprehensive year-to-date average price was $644,703, increasing by 1.4% from the first 10 months of 2023. The dollar value of all home sales in October 2024 was $152.9 million, an advance of 31% from the same month in 2023.
The number of new listings was up by 10% from October 2023. There were 428 new residential listings in October 2024. This was the largest number of new listings added in the month of October in more than three decades.
New listings were 16.9% above the five-year average and 21.9% above the 10-year average for the month of October. Active residential listings numbered 1,374 units on the market at the end of October, an increase of 13.2% from the end of October 2023. Active listings haven’t been this high in the month of October in more than five years. Active listings were 49.5% above the five-year average and 29.3% above the 10-year average for the month of October.
Months of inventory numbered 5.8 at the end of October 2024, down from the 6.7 months recorded at the end of October 2023 and above the long-run average of 4.3 months for this time of year. The number of months of inventory is the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current rate of sales activity.
(1) Sales / new listings * 100; compared to levels from previous periods.
(2) Active listings at month end / monthly sales; compared to levels from previous periods.
(3) Sale price / list price * 100; average for all homes sold in the current month.
OnePoint Association of REALTORS® serves as a unified body representing almost 3,000 real estate professionals across the regions of Huron, Perth, Grey, Bruce, Wellington, Georgian Bay, Simcoe, Parry Sound, Haliburton and Muskoka.
Related: September 2024 Real Estate Market Update
Wondering how these numbers might impact your real estate plans? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about market trends, I’ve got you covered! Let’s navigate the market together! Contact me for a complimentary, no-obligation property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Now that daylight saving time has ended, evening viewings will take on a new significance in the real estate market. With earlier sunsets, it’s essential for both sellers and buyers to adapt their strategies for maximizing these important showings. Here are some top tips to ensure evening viewings are effective and appealing.
Evening viewings cater to buyers who may have busy daytime schedules, allowing them to explore properties at their convenience. As daylight fades, the right ambiance can create a lasting impression, making it crucial for sellers to optimize this time.
Schedule Strategically
Create an Inviting Atmosphere
Enhance Curb Appeal
Prepare for Showings
Plan Ahead
Take Notes During Showings
Ask Questions
As we transition into shorter days with the end of daylight saving time, maximizing evening viewings becomes even more critical in the real estate market. Sellers should focus on creating an inviting atmosphere while being flexible with scheduling, and buyers should prepare effectively and engage actively during showings. By following these tips, both parties can enhance their experience in the real estate market, leading to successful transactions and satisfied clients.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
INFO & SERVICES
CENTURY 21 In-Studio Realty Inc. Brokerage
9 Main St E, Markdale, ON N0C1H0
(519) 375-7653
INFO & SERVICES
Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.
Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and either notify the sender at the above e-mail address or by telephone.
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