sept 2, 2014 issue 101

WHAT’S INSIDE:Waterfront | PAGE 3

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

HOMES FOR SALEGrimsby, Lincoln, WestLincoln & Niagara ListingsPAGE 5

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

56 Pottruff Road South, Hamilton

6 Renovations You Should Never Do YourselfPAGE 6

Testimonial

I am very happy with the adviceand expertise provided by theGolfi Team on our quick andefficient home sale! Mike certainlyfulfilled our expectations andwas professional and courteousthroughout the process. I willrecommend the Golfi Team to allmy friends! Thanks so much!

Brian SmithRob GolfiSales Representative

September 2, 2014 - Vol 68a

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 hisclients had come to expect.

Hence, “The Golfi Team” was formed, comprised of aselect group of individuals who work well together andshare Rob’s team philosophy. In 2003, the teamreceived the prestigious honour of being in the top 100Real Estate Teams for RE/MAX Canada*. And this sta-tus continues to date*. Rob has received every majoraward available at RE/MAX including the DiamondClub (2010-2012)*, 100% Club (1999-2001)*, PlatinumClub (2002)*, Chairmans Club (2003-2009)*, Hall ofFame (Inducted in 2003)*, and the LifetimeAchievement Award (Inducted in 2006)*, Circle ofLegends (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.

The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch September 2, 2014

visitwww.Golfiteam.comCheck out our Blog for the latest

information in Real estate

where the future takes shape

Seniors Real Estate Specialist is a designation for RealtORS® to address theneeds of home buyers and sellers, age 50-plus.

Rob GolfiSaleS RepReSentative

905-575-7700

If you are buying or selling a home,

contact Rob Golfi today.

We SELL more...

because we DO more!

ROB GOLFISaleS RepReSentative

www.GolfiTeam.com | 905.575.7700 | 1.800.288.9184

SHARONSTAFFORD

CHRISTINESERAFINI

HANS MARCELISSEN

ERIC PINI, B.A.

WENDYMURRAY-

NICHOLSON

LAURA BIELAK

MIKE MCNEIL DAN GOLFI

JENNIFERDRAHO

JEFF GOLFI

THE ULTIMATE

SELLING TEAM

Call Today 905-575-7700

September 2, 2014 The Golfi Team Real Estate Market Watch

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

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!


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

hAMIlTOn EAST $949,900 1085 Beach Boulevard



WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

STOnEY CREEk $374,900515 North Service Road, Unit #2LAKEFRONT! 2 Storey open concept end unit features 17foot ceiling in living room, kitchen w/ granite/undermountlighting, walk-in pantry, 2 bedrooms on main level with fullbathroom. Upper level master suite with ensuite. $335/mthcondo fees


STOnEY CREEk $774,90063 Edgewater Drive

Stunning view of the Lake! This beautiful Waterfront 4+1bedroom home makes you feel like you are away fromhome! Main floor offers open concept with sliding doors tothe patio. Have your morning coffee on the patio and sitback and enjoy the sound of the water! 2 master bedroomswith ensuites.


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

STOnEY CREEk $737,00037 Edgewater Drive

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!


WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

FORT ERIE $799,9003723 Niagara River Parkway

BREATHTAKING vIEWS on 2 acres! 4+1 bdrm homefeatures Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigationsprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator,furnace 6yrs, new, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & anicely landscaped yard! Docking rights available!


WATERFRONT

Docking Rights Available!

GRIMSBY $899,9001 11th Street

BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuiltWaterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3bedrms & 2 baths in a . Large master suite w/ensuite, twomain floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area,spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. Turnthe key & leave w/this zero maintenance freehold property!


WATERFRONT

1) Where is my privacy? A seller advertised the home as having

large evergreens in the backyard, givingyear round privacy. The sellers movedout a week before closing and gave theirneighbour permission to trim the branch-es on the neighbour’s side of the fence.The neighbour proceeded to remove allthe branches, taking away the entire pri-vacy of the backyard. The buyers noticedthis just before closing and were upset.

The solution was to plant eight cedarsin the space, creating instant privacy at acost of about $1,200 which the sellerpaid. Problem solved.

2) There is a skunk under the porch The buyers found a family of skunks

under the front porch on the day beforeclosing. The seller’s lawyer said it wasnot the seller’s responsibility to removethe skunks from the property. It is diffi-cult to tell who would win if this went tocourt. The seller paid a pest controlcompany $250 to remove the skunks.These companies also specialize in trap-ping raccoons and removing termites aswell.

3) The furnace is not working Most real estate agreements say home

systems and appliances must work onclosing. When buyers do the final visits,problems arise if they notice that thingsaren’t working. The best way to resolvethis is to get an estimate to fix the prob-lem and then offer the seller the option offixing the problem themselves or givingthe buyer a credit for the repair.

4) There is an outstanding City permitThis typically means the owner of the

home has started work that needed abuilding permit, but did not have theinspector sign off when the work was fin-ished. The buyer must have proof thework was in fact done correctly or elsethe buyer will be responsible to fix thisafter closing. If the permit related to workdone by a prior owner who was not theactual seller, then it is possible that titleinsurance will solve the issue. Otherwise,it is best to contact the City, arrange foran inspector to come out to conduct what-ever inspection is necessary to close thepermit. This may require extending theclosing date for a few days to get it done.

5) I can’t get in the front doorI have seen situations where the seller

leaves one key for the buyer and the restof them are on the kitchen counter. Theproblem is that there are two locks on thefront door. In this situation, buyers shouldcall a 24 hour locksmith. The cost will bethe seller’s responsibility.

If you relax and look for common-sense solutions, most closing day issuescan be overcome to the satisfaction ofboth buyers and sellers.

Mark Weisleder is a Toronto real estate lawyer.

Contact: [email protected]

5 Things that can Go Wrong on Closing Day

CALL NOW!

HOMESOLD

905-575-7700

HOMESOLD

GET YOUR

Call Today 905-945-0188


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

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Fixer-upperHOMeS FOr SALe

These homes need work.Free list with pictures.

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Homes For Sale

HamILTOn EaST

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Call Us today for information on any of these Homes!

905-575-7700 • 905-945-0188

Bungalows & Raised Ranches Two Storeys • Semis & Town Homes

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

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

Call Today 905-945-0188


www.golfiteam.com

Rob Golfi*

Grimsby, Lincoln West Lincoln & Niagara

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.


SMIThvIllE $379,7007 Wade Road

BEAUTIFUL LARGE LOT can possibly be severed for acorner building lot or build a garage. Buyer to verify zoningreg. 4 level side split in prime location on quiet deadendstreet. 3+2 bdrms, in-ground pool, walkup from bsmt,double garage, & large driveway. Updated kitchen,windows, hdwd floors and roof.


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.


WATERFRONT

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 $989,900P/L#23 Durham Road

ZONED LIGHT INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL with5.5 acres and 602 feet of frontage on Durham Rd.


BEAMSvIllE $464,9004038 Bush Crescent

LARGE OPEN CONCEPT 2 plus 1 Brick Bungalow ingreat location, energy star home, high quality finishes,quartz counters, hardwood floors, upgraded windows, fullyfinished basement complete with 3 piece bathroom.Composite deck, interlock patio, retractable awing, largedouble car garage, main floor laundry.


BEAMSvIllE $217,9004340 Central Avenue

WHAT A DOLL HOUSE! Clean & beautifully kept homein fantastic condition features shingles 6 years new, allthermal vinyl windows, gorgeous hardwd flrs under allbroadlm, long concrete drive w/fenced yard & personalgreenhouse backing onto church park, & close to allamenities. Shows like a dream!


FORT ERIE $799,9003723 Niagara River Parkway

BREATHTAKING vIEWS ON 2 ACRES! 4+1 BR homefeatures Oak hardwds, main flr master suite, irrigationsprinkler system, aerobic septic bed, backup gas generator,furnace 6yrs, roof 3yrs, gardeners greenhouse & a nicelylandscaped yard! Docking rights available!


GRIMSBY $959,900342 Kemp Road West

CUSTOM BUILT home on 37 acres. Features nanny'squarters or 2 bedroom in-law suite, 2 fireplaces, gourmetkitchen, ceramics, vaulted ceilings, in-ground pool, 3 cargar. Barn w/13 stalls, 4 paddocks & a 60x140 arena. Minutesfrom town!


BUILDING LOT

5.5 AcRES

37 AcRES

1.36 AcRES

ST. CAThARInES $252,90015 Lakeside Drive, Unit 39

3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSe with amazing views of thelake! Resort style living. Large eat in kitchen, living roomwith corner gas fireplace, updated flooring, freshly painted.In-ground pool, large courtyard, private deck off patiodoors, lower level finished.


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

PElhAM $699,900571 Poth Street

5 ACRE PROPERTY w/ large 4 bedrm home & barn w/stalls. Home feat liv/rm, dinrm, eat-in maple kitchen, mainflr master suite & fin bsemnt. Outdoor feat large pond, barnw/ 5 stalls, run in shed, 2 paddocks & exercise ring


GRIMSBY $479,900180 Main Street West

2 STOREY WITH IN-LAW. 4+2 bedrm, 3 full baths, 2 halfbaths, new kitchen, furnace & a/c, roof & back deck. Mainfloor home office, den & separate dining rm. In-law hasseparate entrance & driveway.


GRIMSBY $899,9001 11th Street

BIGGER THAN IT LOOKS! 2200 sq ft completely rebuiltWaterfront retreat w/180-degree views of Lake feat. 3bedrms & 2 baths in a . Large master suite w/ensuite, twomain floor bedrms, 3pc powder rm, two-level living area,spacious dining rm, & over sized chefs gourmet kitch. Turnthe key & leave w/this zero maintenance freehold property!


WATERFRONT

WAInFlEET $499,90040830A Forks Road

WORK/LIvE 6 yr old, 60x225’ industrial workshop. 6”concrete flr, steel roof/siding, insul ceiling, clear span,scissor trusses, 4 roll-up doors, 2 hoists, 16 ft ceiling incentre, tube htg, 200 amp service. SQ ft 13,500.


WATERFRONT

Docking Rights Available!

WAInFlEET $389,90040830 Forks Road

2.8 ACRES OF COUNTRY LIvING with pond. Updated 2storey country charmer. This home has it all, 4 bedroom, 2full baths, large eat-in kitchen, main floor office, laundryand mudroom. Outside features a lovely wrap-around porchand 4 car garage.


2.8 AcRES

BEAMSvIllE $159,9001 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.


5 AcRES

BEAMSvIllE $399,9005143 Meadowwood Lane

2 Storey, 3 bedroom home backing onto greenpace. Updatesinclude granite countertop in kitchen, hardwood on mainlevel, carpet upstairs, bathrooms, roof and front door. Fullylandscaped backyard with stunning gardens and large stonepatio.


ST. CAThARInES $159,90014 Thornton Street

Great Starter Home! This home is ready for you to move inoffering a family room addition w/gas fireplace, updatedkitchen w/granite counter tops and laminate flooringthroughout. Spacious 33ft. x113ft. fully fenced yard w/largedeck. Furnace & windows 6 years new, updated front porch2014.


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

Call Today 905-575-7700


Year-to-Date Average Selling Price for “Detached” Homes – 1985 to Present

LOWER UPPER EAST WEST CENTRAL HAMILTON

YEAR STONEY CREEK STONEY CREEK HAMILTON HAMILTON HAMILTON MOUNTAIN ANCASTER DUNDAS GRIMSBY SMITHVILLE LINCOLN BURLINGTON GLANBROOK

1985 $80,942 $79,137 $56,479 $66,183 $42,253 $73,520 $125,745 $91,210 $82,450 $65,870 N/A $107,325 $81,742

1990 $194,027 $184,470 $129,776 $168,413 $116,253 $161,153 $266,681 $209,070 $190,117 $146,557 $155,381 $217,824 $173,975

1995 $157,811 $160,651 $106,711 $141,665 $82,527 $134,705 $211,505 $165,318 $149,230 $124,002 $132,368 $202,473 $152,634

2000 $184,130 $177,745 $119,461 $151,572 $89,828 $152,677 $252,164 $194,402 $191,177 $164,699 $164,839 $254,074 $199,738

2005 $263,252 $263,245 $159,859 $228,813 $123,084 $214,749 $372,585 $288,193 $289,975 $220,649 $240,143 $371,100 $276,246

2006 $279,816 $279,951 $166,363 $238,338 $130,693 $222,765 $385,046 $317,238 $305,964 $233,243 $268,673 $394,798 $311,534

2007 $289,651 $284,280 $180,614 $257,108 $137,370 $236,621 $427,272 $331,272 $306,477 $253,259 $275,085 $428,599 $302,138

2008 $310,131 $293,571 $186,031 $267,973 $148,432 $243,239 $431,561 $329,752 $321,451 $246,381 $301,542 $449,261 $318,054

2009 $298,521 $299,641 $178,956 $279,104 $144,513 $245,988 $439,293 $344,179 $326,034 $256,862 $289,085 $452,434 $313,121

2010 $319,983 $324,135 $188,834 $306,689 $152,319 $263,319 $461,254 $375,871 $348,408 $283,446 $295,325 $492,166 $332,758

2011 $328,766 $333,150 $201,886 $321,345 $155,740 $269,860 $490,677 $375,988 $367,505 $274,947 $328,874 $528,753 $348,995

2012 $357,183 $348,615 $212,099 $344,599 $168,774 $282,090 $521,767 $393,671 $393,529 $276,177 $350,863 $569,494 $380,459

2013 $372,471 $375,072 $221,843 $367,985 $182,837 $300,731 $550,470 $429,620 $389,953 $290,657 $352,404 $610,247 $386,426

2014 $416,539 $399,299 $242,313 $393,919 $205,836 $318,459 $567,284 $455,039 $396,947 $319,601 $383,332 $650,295 $406,761

Year-to-Date Average Selling Price for “Town” Homes – 1990 to Present

LOWER UPPER EAST WEST CENTRAL HAMILTON

YEAR STONEY CREEK STONEY CREEK HAMILTON HAMILTON HAMILTON MOUNTAIN ANCASTER DUNDAS GRIMSBY SMITHVILLE LINCOLN BURLINGTON GLANBROOK

1990 $138,260 $127,194 $114,699 $127,990 $86,932 $122,074 $192,175 $142,547 $136,340 $98,567 $109,691 $144,626 N/A

1995 $125,310 $109,980 $88,984 $77,167 $49,727 $93,349 $160,080 $111,053 $112,522 $82,750 $120,988 $126,024 $175,000

2000 $137,348 $124,094 $99,602 $99,470 $60,119 $102,518 $175,303 $135,279 $120,513 $105,889 $130,284 $161,142 $180,500

2005 $190,446 $184,189 $127,961 $166,630 $78,909 $145,005 $244,342 $187,288 $194,933 $139,607 $178,487 $229,963 $224,032

2006 $210,455 $197,710 $152,956 $167,430 $75,821 $158,142 $255,027 $190,386 $209,148 $160,300 $183,264 $250,051 $236,696

2007 $217,510 $201,818 $144,051 $195,871 $90,710 $168,598 $277,929 $203,413 $219,307 $163,215 $194,379 $264,720 $241,085

2008 $224,385 $217,555 $153,298 $210,128 $105,988 $172,802 $274,155 $207,430 $217,492 $146,664 $206,682 $274,713 $251,140

2009 $235,667 $218,918 $164,397 $232,035 $83,290 $180,974 $272,047 $221,300 $228,874 $154,764 $221,394 $276,474 $241,458

2010 $237,072 $232,362 $171,899 $220,157 $128,338 $181,950 $283,342 $232,308 $240,368 $154,682 $205,649 $302,649 $250,967

2011 $247,136 $245,196 $174,922 $231,252 $120,265 $193,346 $299,260 $239,291 $234,177 $170,620 $233,143 $315,577 $268,157

2012 $259,476 $262,070 $180,477 $241,978 $121,817 $196,963 $321,923 $245,588 $254,613 $204,500 $259,822 $354,422 $273,179

2013 $279,768 $270,123 $187,681 $247,929 $145,495 $205,557 $338,477 $259,062 $264,398 $186,346 $248,292 $367,318 $277,674

2014 $294,003 $284,452 $192,024 $245,583 $177,081 $222,936 $346,623 $286,544 $288,586 $203,877 $272,768 $387,644 $293,932

Millions of Canadians unknowinglyhave billions of dollars worth of theirmoney and assets being held by compa-nies and government agencies, availablefor recovery.

The Bank of Canada alone is holdingnearly $1 billion from bank accounts andCanada Savings Bonds, but experts esti-mate unclaimed assets across the countrycould top $4 billion to $7 billion.

Canada is way behind other developedcountries in having comprehensiveunclaimed property legislation for all itsresidents, says accountant Brenda PotterPhelan.

“A country so progressive, so sociallyminded as Canada, I find it hard to stom-ach that we don’t have some safeguards.In the U.S. and around the world theyfind this a main part of consumer protec-tion,” she said from Cambridge, Ont.,where she runs a website and blog calledLegacy Tracker.

Quebec and Alberta are the onlyprovinces with comprehensive laws,while British Columbia has a voluntarysystem. But Ontario is studying the adop-tion of its own system that could shine the

light on a large treasure of unclaimedassets, including insurance policies,stocks and pensions.

In Canada, the total value ofunclaimed assets is unknown but expertsbelieve the numbers are staggering andgrowing.

The Bank of Canada’s unclaimedaccounts grew 52 per cent over five yearsto reach $532 million as of December,with 93 per cent of accounts worth lessthan $1,000. The bank returned only $14million to owners last year.

Non-redeemed Canada Savings Bondsand Canada Premium Bonds totalled$391 million as of March 31. The Officeof the Superintendent of BankruptcyCanada holds some $18 million.

Quebec has about $300 million ofunclaimed financial and other assets,while B.C. and Alberta have tens of mil-lions each.

Online searches can be conducted ineach of those provinces and with theOffice of Superintendent of Bankruptcy,but all Canadians can look at the Bank ofCanada website.

Searches conducted during research

for this story identified more than$10,000 of unclaimed financial assets forfamily and friends.

“I am very surprised,” Syma Shaffersaid when told about the discovery ofnearly $1,400 from a Montreal bankaccount closed in 1991.

Federally regulated banks are requiredto hand over unclaimed deposit accounts,term deposits & GICs and negotiableitems such as drafts, money orders andcertified cheques to the central bank aftera decade of trying to notify the owner.

Excluded are non-Canadian currencyaccounts, RRSPs, credit union balances,gold or silver certificates, safety depositboxes, insurance payments, court pay-ments, stocks and dividends, wages andreal estate deposits, most of which arecovered by provincial legislation.

The largest single unclaimed accounttotalling $552,000 was transferred from aRoyal Bank branch in Montreal. Itsowner, Manuel vinhas, had two dormantaccounts worth nearly $677,000.

The bank wouldn’t comment on spe-cific cases, citing privacy issues.

Greg Crone was elated when informed

he had more than $6,600 of assets beingheld, likely from a deposit related to a2003 car purchase.

But the Ontario resident couldn’tunderstand how RBC was unable tolocate him after a move to another citysince he has the same bank account.

“It’s pretty shocking. When they wantto find you because you’re late on a pay-ment or something they have no troublefinding you,” he said in an interview.

Experts say it’s not uncommon forpeople to lose track of their assets, forget-ting old bank accounts or paid up lifeinsurance policies. People often movewithout forwarding their mail for morethan a year and many people die withouttheir heirs knowing much about theirfinances.

“Some people live quite private livesand they die unexpectedly and peopledon’t even know to look,” said DarrenJack, chairman of a task force for theUnclaimed Property ProfessionalsOrganization.

By Ross Marowits The Canadian Press

Canadians have $Billions in Unclaimed Money

www.GolfiTeam.com

Crossword puzzle

Across

1,4 (Of a child) extremely well behaved(2,4,2,4)

4 See 1

8 Like an egg? (5)

9 Burning fiercely (7)

10 moderately slow musical passage (7)

11 Thrust (5)

12 meet (9)

17 allude (to) (5)

19 Theoretical — token (7)

21 Seclusion (7)

22 Violent disturbances (5)

23,24 unhappily unattach ed persons?(6,6)

24 See 23

Down

1 Lacking principles (6)

2 Someone from newcastle-upon-Tyne (7)

3 (Of days) in the long distant past!(5)

5 promising young film actress (7)

6 Bulb used as a vegetable (5)

7 knife (6)

9 Commonness of recurrence (9)

13 Restrict (7)

14 malicious hostility (7)

15 Cause to move (6)

16 attacks vituperatively (6)

18 Simulate (5)

20 Combine (5)

The Solution

7 22 3 19

9 5 831 8

8 5 67 9 1

3 4 26 8 7 1

9 5 4

SUDOKUSUDOKU

148725 963

526341 879

379514 682

465973 218

832456 197

791862 345

953187 426

684239 75

217698 534

1

4

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 3)


Pros & Cons of Wood Floors vs Carpet forInfants and ToddlersFor most couples, the advent of young children make them look at their home with new eyes. “Charming” now seems cluttered. Special features such as stone floors, balconies, old coal fireplaces, now look downrightdangerous. No wonder there is some debate over which flooring – wood or carpet – is most child-friendly.

Wood: ProHardwood floors are popular; many

house hunters say they are must-haves. Ifyou are redecorating to sell, or buying

with resale in mind, remember that woodfloors show well and add value. Wheninstalled correctly and cared for, woodlasts beyond a lifetime. For parents who

want to preserve the environment fortheir children, wood is available in recy-cled and sustainable types. And when itcomes to cleaning up spills, stains orcrayon, wood is peerless.

Wood: ConWood does have drawbacks, however.

It is expensive, when most families arebudget-conscious. It is far from care-free;proper maintenance includes sanding andrefinishing every 10 to 15 years, andwood is particularly susceptible to waterdamage. Anyone who grew up in an oldhouse can tell you that wood floors arevery cold in winter, and rough-housing orrunning around in socks leads to splinters.Wood, particularly dark varieties, showsdust and pet hair, even just after sweeping.And when you are just learning to walk,wood floors are slippery and hard.

Carpet: ProCarpet's advantages are clear. It is soft;

toddling is easier with no splinters and acushioned landing. Carpet comes instyles and colors to fit every decor, givingrooms a luxurious appearance. It iswarm-- making getting out of bed in

February much more palatable. Cost-wise, carpet is more budget-friendly thanwood. Finally, have you ever heard kidsscreeching and feet clomping about in aroom with wood floors? Carpet is mucheasier on the nerves.

Carpet: ConCarpet is not without problems

though. It stains, quite easily, particularlywith common childhood substances suchas juice, marker and pink antibiotics.Even a carpet which is regularly sham-pooed is never completely clean, andholds allergens like dust and pet dander.When water-damaged, carpets mold ifnot dried and treated properly. Carpetsshould be replaced every decade, whichadds to their expense. Finally, althoughenvironmentally-friendly carpets exist,carpet exudes chemicals (hence, "newcarpet smell") for years after installation.

Price? Durability? Cleanliness? Consideryour priorities. No flooring is perfect,but there's a floor that's perfect for youand your child.

By Danica Sorber, eHow Contributor

When it comes to homeimprovements, it’s difficultto know when to do it your-

self and when to hire a professional.We have the low down on when todraw the line – it usually involvesthings like plumbing, electricity,expensive materials and renovationsthat are downright dangerous. Sobefore you try to get handy with ahammer, consult this list to see whatyou should never attempt yourself.

ElectricalWhen it comes to making electri-

cal adjustments, there are too manytechnicalities to do it on your own.Electrical standards have to be met sothat wires aren’t over-heated, circuitbreakers aren’t overworked, andsomeone needs to make sure thateverything is wired correctly through-

out the house. You need advancedelectrical knowledge to do this job soit’s best to hire a certified electrician.

Building or Renovating theBathroom

Bathroom renovations that don’tinvolve moving the plumbing pipescan be done on your own, but youshould hire a plumber for anythingmore complicated. If the job isn’tdone correctly, it will cause a lot moreheadaches than it’s worth. Poorlydone pipe installations could lead toleaks that drip through the drywalland could cause water damagethroughout the house.

Breaking Down WallsIf you want to break down walls to

open up your space, don’t do it your-self. Walls support the structure of thehouse, so weight-bearing and supportwalls have to be dealt with according-ly. A professional will have an in-depth understanding of the structureof the house, and they’ll be able toidentify a cosmetic wall versus a sup-port wall to get the job done right.

Finishing the BasementWhen it comes to renovating the

basement, there’s a lot of room forerror. Before you put up new wallsand flooring, you need a professionalto make sure the insulation is correctand that there are no cracks or leaks inthe foundation or on the floor. You’llalso need someone to take care of theelectrical.

Window RenovationsThere is no shortage of profession-

al window companies who canreplace windows at a low price. Forthe low cost of this renovation, hire aprofessional – if it’s not done proper-ly, it could lead to air leakages that lethot and cold air escape, ultimatelyraking up your hydro bill.

Working with Granite or MarbleWhether you’re installing new

countertops or tiles, when workingwith such expensive materials likegranite or marble it’s best to hire aprofessional to do the measurementsand installation. If you make a mis-take, the cost is too high to make itworth doing it yourself.

By Adena Leigh, HGTV

Call Today 905-575-7700

6 Renovations You Should Never Do Yourself


Call Today 905-575-7700

Rob Golfi*

Hamilton, Stoney CreekAncaster, Dundas & Glanbrook

STOnEY CREEk $399,900723 Ridge Road

BEAUTIFUL ESCARPMENT 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 Highway #8

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 $99,90095 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 $339,900193 Parkwood Crescent

FANTASTIC LOCATION!! Walk to Limeridge mall &parks. Features a spiral staircase, main flr fam room w/gasfireplace, separate dining room, laundry was on the mainLvL and can be moved back, large master bedroom withwalk in closet and ensuite, large partially finished basementand fenced rear yard with deck. Shingles replaced in 2002.


STOnEY CREEk $1900 / MTh43 Riviera Ridge

FOR LEASE! Large 1.5 storey home finished top to bottom.Main floor bdrm w/ensuite, updated kitch, vaulted ceilings& gas fireplce in living rm. Fully finished bsmnt, fencedyard w/lrg deck w/retractable awning. Seconds from QEW.Credit Check, references & letter of employment required.Tenant to have contents & liability insurance.

hAMIlTOn EAST $949,9001087 Beach Boulevard



WATERFRONT

FREE Home EvaluationGet your home sold Fast!

905.575.7700

hAMIlTOn WEST $479,90014 Cottrill Street

MCMASTER STUDENT RENTAL! Best location forstudent rental at Mac, on university side of Main Street.Same owner for 32 years, numerous updates with biggarage. Four rooms not yet rented. $3000.00 a monthincome when fully rented and students pay utilities. Walk touniversity, shopping and on main bus line.


INcOME POTENTIAL

RENTAL

1 AcRE

STOnEY CREEk $489,900293 McNeilly Road

Custom built 4 bedrm home includes updated kitchen withgranite counters, updated bathroom, new carpeting, furnace.Features ceramic & hardwood flooring, main floor laundry& den, finished basement w/ in-law set up & fully fencedyard.


hAMIlTOn $274,90078 Lorraine Drive

Great mountain location! This 3 bedrm, 2 bathrm bungalowis great for potential rental income. Interlock driveway andwalkway w/great landscaping, fully finished basementw/side entrance including gas fireplace, full eat in kitchconnecting to fabulous 4 season sun rm & hardwd flrsthroughout.


BInBROOk $315,00067 Cleghorn Drive

Perfect family home in desirable Binbrook! Upgrades frombeginning to end. Mocha oak cabinetry in kitch w/granitecounter tops & deep under mount sinks, S.S. appliancesincluding Bosch dishwasher. Gleaming dark hardwdthroughout, wrought iron spindles in staircase & custombuilt deck w/pergola.


hAMIlTOn $315,900116 Hoover Crescent

SECRET GARDEN PARADISE!! Well established in aprime mountain location! Bungalow with 3 bedrooms, 1bath, carport with storage shed. Partial finished basement(walls studded), new windows, granite counters and ceramicflooring in kitchen and shingles in 2012. Side entrance couldaccommodate in-law.


hAMIlTOn $269,900187 Sanford Avenue North

GREAT INvESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! Currently set upas a 3 unit home. Updates include furnace, water heater, androof (2011). Potential rental income: Basement unit $750,Main unit $950, Upper unit $1200.


hAMIlTOn $129,900285 King Street, Unit #3

GREAT LOCATION, NEAR MC MASTER! Fabulousground floor two bedroom. The Chantilly is filled withcharacter and Century features. Nicely decorated, showsbeautifully, lots of closets and storage, newer tile floors andrefinished hardwood. Bathroom and kitchen updated.


hAMIlTOn EAST $179,90011 Harrisford Street South, Unit #53 bedroom Townhouse in great location! Easy highwayaccess, sunken living room, patio doors to rear patio, diningroom, eat in kitchen finished rec room and more.


BRAnTFORD $129,900342 Dalhousie Street

Location Rocks!! Short bus ride to Wilfrid Laurier Campus.Convenient Location for Tenants. Both units occupied onmonth to month. Side parking and huge backyard. $475 +hydro/water upstairs and $650 + hydro/water downstairs.Seller pays gas and water heater rental.



hAMIlTOn EAST $249,900532 Beach Blvd

An exciting opportunity for a small business to locate onBeach Blvd. Would suit many types of uses. very nicespace with double front door entry. Has 200 Amp, 2pc bathand poured concrete floor. Flat roof done 2007.


Crossword Solution

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

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Home Inspection

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MarketplaceMarketplace

Pamela Culp Blanchard Cell: 905-971-9568 www.seniordownsizing.ca

Senior Downsizing

WE GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE ENTIRE PROCESS

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

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WINNER


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sept 2, 2014 issue 101

Documents

rob alsoprides

real estate career

rob golfirobs career

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