CREA outlines a 'Sensible' National Forecast for 2012

We are bombarded with real estate outlooks (especially on slow news days)  I actually like this outlook based on CREA stats.  Common sense-with some economic reality tossed in.

http://www.moneyville.ca/article/1140990

The Pitfalls of 'Mere Postings' -Consumers Beware!!

This may be one of the simplest, best, and entertaining explanations of why 'mere postings' aren't beneficial to the consumer.  Proud to note - he's a RE/MAX agent ;)

tip: view in 'couch mode'

http://vimeo.com/37291192

Despite the Global Economy - It's a great time to be active in the real estate market

Those of you who my be on the proverbial fence about investing in real estate may find this article interesting.  Over time we've been influenced more and more by the state of the global economy and this article addresses that, and how it benefits us.

take care,
Corrie

http://www.moneyville.ca/article/1121135--why-it-s-a-good-time-to-buy-a-home

A national study sees the Barrie area named in the top ten 'real estate places to invest'

Recently, Barrie and the surrounding area received media attention as one of the top ten cities nationally in which to invest in real estate - below see the results with Barrie-Orillia area sitting at number eight according to the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN)

http://money.ca.msn.com/investing/top-10-deals-in-canadian-real-estate

RE/MAX Housing Market Outlook 2012

A great annual report that remains fairly accurate year over year.  The national picture is good to know about, but scroll down to Barrie and District for quick information about the coming year.

http://www.remax-oa.com/MediaNewsroom/Lists/PressReleases/Attachments/70/REMAX_HM_2011_RPT.pdf

The Bright Spot in Canada's Economy is Real Estate

The term 'Housing Bubble' makes me crazy - it certainly applied to the 'bubble' of the late 80's but unlike that (long ago) past, our market hasn't dramatically risen over that same short period of time.  Overall, the supply of listings and buyer demand has remained fairly balanced (ie: no bubble catalysts present).

Anyhow - that's my rant, however the article below is (in my opinion) a good prediction of the next year or two as far as rates and 'bubbles' go :)

 http://money.ca.msn.com/investing/deirdre-mcmurdy/will-canadas-real-estate-bubble-eventually-burst

Cheers,
Corrie

Amid the seemingly popular 'For Sale By Owner' gimmicks there are some important realities

Consumers have many choices when deciding to buy or sell property (for that matter consumers make choices on a daily basis; whether it's handling legal issues, booking trips, selecting an insurance or mortgage company, choosing a dentist, booking a hair appointment - the list goes on)  As Realtors we have to understand the reality of 'choice' - however as professionals in our industry we have to be able to explain to a Consumer why CHOOSING WISELY MEANS CHOOSING RE/MAX .

Today's Consumer is busier than ever with work, family and social commitments - Thoroughly explain what your services will mean to them in terms of time saved and top dollar achieved - yes the devil is in the details but NEVER assume the Consumer (who has just been mislead by a ridiculously inaccurate FSBO ad or commercial) understands the details.

Address the alternative to using a Realtor including all of the things they stand to lose - This isn't a 'scare tactic' it's a reality.  Realtors do add value.  Include that proof in your presentation.  Large investments are involved in a property sale and we help a great deal.  Rational people don't often waive their right to use a lawyer in court because they understand the consequences.  Rational people need to fully understand the consequences of not using a Realtor and why you add value - make it your priority to explain this.  Click below to review only one example of how we add value.

  http://propertywire.ca/news/national-news/1476-canadians-need-help-getting-homes-ready-for-sale.html

Cheers,

Corrie