Freddie Mac: Better Days Ahead in Housing in the US.

Freddie Mac’s chief economist is optimistic that the housing market and economy in the States will improve in the second half of 2011, reports NAR's Realtor Magazine. Freddie Mac Chief Economist Frank Nothaft said mortgage rates will likely remain historical lows of between 4.5 percent and 5 percent for the remainder of the year. Also, he expects more buyers to stop waiting on the sidelines as recent price drops in home prices have improved affordability. Nothaft said consumers’ uncertainty about the economy has caused them to delay home purchases and other “big-ticket items.” "Some potential buyers who have the means to buy are awaiting clearer signs that home values have firmed," Nothaft says. But Nothaft says they should be getting their signs in the second half of the year, with projected job gains, and a growing, improved economy. "Even though near-term concerns over income and sales growth are restraining consumer spending, business hiring, and new building, a number of positive signs in the economy indicate that growth will continue and is likely to accelerate in the second half of this year," Nothaft said. "Look for a gradual improvement in housing activity in the coming year.”

Tom Ferry sales power training today

Getting more training on social websites here in Mississauga. Great info and looking forward to keeping in touch.

REMAX Recreational Report 2011

Mississauga, ON (June 13, 2011) - Canada's recreational property market is gaining serious traction as savvy purchasers take advantage of ideal conditions, setting the stage for what is expected to be the best market in recent years, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.
The 2011 RE/MAX Recreational Property Report , examining sales and trends in 46 markets across the country, found that substantial equity gains and recovering stock portfolios in major centres have contributed to an upswing in demand from coast to coast. Demand rose in 78 per cent of markets, while sales were up or on par in 41 per cent of recreational centres. Inclement weather, including a late thaw and an abundance of precipitation, resulted in a slow start in many areas, but should be offset by stronger peak season activity. While starting prices have remained relatively stable across the board, there are deals to be had in virtually every region - especially at the top end. Luxury sales, as a result, have climbed in at least half the markets examined. Inventory levels are healthy throughout the country, although there has been some tightening reported at entry-level price points in about one-third of markets. Some of the best selection of product in recent years is now available.

New RE/MAX Curbside Marketing is now working

RE/MAX has just brought out "Curbside Marketing", which allows buyers to view properties instantly right on their phone. Price, description and the actual listing will come up on your phone, complete with pictures. Just TEXT the unique number on the sign, (try 25120) to 58888 for instant property information and if you have a smart phone you can get a link to photos and virtual tours, on my mobile website. Try it and if your in the area watch for the RE/MAX curbside marketing signs.

Demand for luxury homes intensifies amid rising Canadian and global wealth

Improved financial standing among high net worth individuals is the major factor driving strong sales activity at the top end of Canadian housing markets, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.
RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada and RE/MAX of Western Canada examined 12 major centres from coast-to-coast and found that luxury sales have surged in close to two-thirds of housing markets between January 1 and April 30 of this year, compared to the same period in 2010. Leading in terms of percentage increases over the four-month period were Greater Vancouver (118 per cent) - where foreign investment has also played a major role - Ottawa (59 per cent), Calgary (51 per cent), Halifax-Dartmouth (27 per cent), Winnipeg (24 per cent), Hamilton-Burlington (13 per cent) and Greater Toronto (nine per cent). Six of the seven major cities - with the exception of Calgary - are poised to set new records in top-end activity by year-end. Several are just short of peak levels reported in 2010, such as Victoria, Regina, and London-St. Thomas.

National Sales Soften

Statistics released today by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), reveal that national resale housing activity softened in April when compared to March 2011. Seasonally adjusted national home sales activity was down 4.4 per cent in April 2011 compared to the previous month. As expected, declines were largest in some of Canada’s more expensive and active markets, including Toronto, Vancouver, and the Fraser Valley.

Moving into Townsend Meadows

Loreen Collins receives the keys to her unit in Townsend Meadows from Jeannine Campbell. Loreen is moving from her lakefront home in Lake Valley Grove to her new unit in Block One and is excited about moving into the community.