Blog
Please feel free to browse through TeamMilovick.com blogs
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Look no further! Located steps to Kitchener's new transit hub and in an area that is experiencing dynamic transition and gentrification, this 100+ year old charmer feels like new! Contemporary updates, large family room addition. Details: http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=132
Thursday, February 2, 2012
The City of Guelph has done an about face and has dropped its OMB defence of its zoning challenge as OHRC determined it was "people zoning." Now, The City looks like it is going to embark on Rental Licensing. Full details here:
http://www.guelphmercury.com/news/local/article/664360--city-of-guelph-changing-strategy-on-rental-housing-challenge
More coming, I am sure.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
I have received many inquiries regarding Minimum Distance Separation and the new Rental Licensing By Law. There has been some confusion due to "bedroom cap." In the last City meeting on Rental Licensing, Director Of By Law Enforcement was specifically asked what changing the bedroom cap from three bedrooms to four bedrooms would do. He said it would "fill in the fringe area's MDS."
In essense, the City's current restrictive number of bedrooms per unit will continue to be governed by the property's underlying zoning. I hope you will find the attached pamphlet useful.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Could this be the first Rental-Licensed C Class property? $249,900. Opportunity abound$ here! Full details: http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=130
Sunday, January 15, 2012
I have received a copy of the Northdale Discuss Paper that will be presented to Council in near future. Please read the attached file. It discusses options for this area.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
City Council had its first City Council meeting at Wilfrid Laurier University. This is seen as a sign of The City making a better effort to integrate with its student population. Full details here:
http://www.thecord.ca/articles/50777
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The Cord, WLU's student newspaper, wrote the following article to its students regarding Waterloo's new rental licensing program. The program takes effect April 1. Here is the article:
http://thecord.ca/articles/50814
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The City of Waterloo has initiated the Northdale Land Use and Community Improvement Plan Study and has retained a consulting team comprised of MMM Group Limited in association with RCI Consulting Inc. and Sweeney Sterling Finlayson & Co. Architects Inc., to complete this study. The second public consultation exercise for this study, a Public Open House and Design Workshop, has been scheduled for Thursday, January 26, 2012. Please see the attached notice for detailed information on this event (please note that registration is required).
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The Regional Municipality of Waterloo is proposing a rapid transit system to enhance transit service in high-demand transportation corridors and to guide and manage long-term growth within the Region.
Stage 1 of the rapid transit system consists of light rail transit from Conestoga Mall to Fairview Park Mall and adapted bus rapid transit from Fairview Park Mall to the Ainslie Street Terminal.
As part of the Ontario Regulation 231/08 Transit Project Assessment Process, the Region’s rapid transit team is hosting three public consultation centres. Information will be available at the centres regarding potential impacts that the rapid transit project may have on the environment. Public comments and feedback will be collected at each centre.
Tuesday January 24, 2012, 3 to 8 p.m.
First United Church, 16 William Street West, Waterloo
Wednesday January 25, 2012, 3 to 8 p.m.
The Region of Waterloo, 150 Frederick Street, Kitchener
Thursday January 26, 2012, 3 to 8 p.m.
The United Kingdom Club, 35 International Village Drive, Cambridge
All locations are accessible by transit; please see www.grt.caor call 519-585-7555 for routes and schedules. These events are also accessible for people with disabilities. If you require assistance to participate or to access information in alternative formats, please contact the Rapid Transit Infoline below at least five days prior to the consultation that you plan to attend.
All comments and information received from individuals, stakeholder groups and agencies regarding this project are being collected to assist the Region of Waterloo in making decisions on this project. The project follows Ontario’s Transit Project Assessment Process. Under the Environmental Assessment Act and the Municipal Act, personal information such as name, address, telephone number, and property location that may be included in a submission becomes part of the public record and may be released if requested. If you have questions about the potential release of your information or about the collection of personal information, contact the Rapid Transit Infoline below.
Can't attend but still want to be involved?
Facebook: facebook.com/ROWRapidTransit
Twitter: twitter.com/ROWRapidTransit
E-mail: rtinfo@regionofwaterloo.ca
Website: www.regionofwaterloo.ca/rapidtransit
Infoline: 519-575-4757 x3242
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
The London Property Management association lost their law suit against The City of London regarding Rental Licensing. Many stakeholders in other communities - including KW - were watching the court case with interest. A copy of this decision is provided as an attachment.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
CMHC has just released its annual fall rental report. KWC rental market strength is very much evident -- experiencing further reductions in vacancy rates with vacancy below the 3 to 6% rate - what CMHC considersto be "balanced". Full details in the attached report.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Purpose Built Five Student Five Plex! Fully rented showing big income! Turn key operation just two blocks from UW! Full details here: http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=121
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
There is going to be some component to rental licensing requiring Fire Code compliance. The link below is Ontario's Fire Code. Have a peak at Section 9 as a starter. Here's a link to the nearly 300 page document: http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/source/regs/english/2007/elaws_src_regs_r07213_e.htm
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Team Milovick is pleased to report firm sales of 84 Allen and 600 Brookmill!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Today was Electrical Inspection at one of my properties - a triplex. Cost of this inspection was $440. ESA sets four hour service window. I waited 3.5 hours for my inspection, outside building, in my truck, in cold and rain. Inspection was fifteen minutes. No deficiencies found. ESA is now backing General Electrical Inspections, as of today, for January 20 onwards. 1800 inspections need to be done before June 1. "All of them are not getting done." Book yours before its too late. 877 372-7233
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Beautiful, freshly painted home featuring THOUSANDS of dollars in builder updates. Pleasant surprises around every corner! Backs onto meadows and woodlands! More info here: http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=120
Saturday, December 3, 2011
TeamMilovick is pleased to present 639 Bonavista Drive, Waterloo - well appointed home in sought after Eastbridge. Full details here:
http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=119
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Probably no surprise here given the extreme volatility in the stock market. Here's full details: http://www.ccim.com/newscenter/commercial-real-estate-ranks-highest-among-investment-alternatives
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Rental Licensing in the City of Kitchener was a hot topic last night. The City is actively pursuing its options in terms of extent of proposed legislation, type of properties and even geographic area.
Full details here:
http://www.therecord.com/mobile/news/article/631768--council-orders-draft-rental-licensing-bylaw
Monday, November 28, 2011
The London Property Manager's Assocation lost their law suit against the City of London and its rental licensing program. Details here:
http://ontariolandlords.ca/2011/11/landlord-licensing-comes-to-london-ontario/
Monday, November 28, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Apartment building at the corner of Regina and Bridgeport burned today. This building was on the market last year. My gut says electrical fire. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/629068--residents-escape-fire-in-waterloo-home
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Waterloo City Councillors were questions why Waterloo home owners pay, on average, $399 more, annually, then their Kitchener or Cambridge counterparts. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/628899--waterloo-city-of-highest-taxes
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Citing downside economic risk and revised downward projected economic growth, the Bank of Canada has maintained interest rates at current level.
More details here:
http://creanews.ca/2011/10/25/interest-rates-to-remain-on-hold-for-longer/
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Some good stuff here regarding student housing and its resiliency to typical economic factors. Note that this student is US based. Also, check out the short interview. Details here:
http://www.ccim.com/newscenter/new-study-looks-campus-student-housing
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
A local developer/student landlord is upset with the massive spike in the Parkland Dedication Fee which was updated earlier this year...details here:
http://www.waterloochronicle.ca/news/developer-denied-parkland-exemption/
Friday, September 23, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Stakeholders: On October 5, the City of Waterloo will have an open house to discuss vision for the Northdale area. More details Here:
http://www.waterloo.ca/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=1&mid=449&def=News%20Article%20View&ItemId=1654
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Lots going on with the Grand Opening of the CIGI Centre...including the possibility of a third unviersity! More details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/595916--third-university-may-join-new-cigi-campus
Friday, September 16, 2011
The Financial Post is reporting this morning that overall Canadian home sales levels slipped in August from July, but that average price has risen 7.7% from a year ago...
More details here:
http://business.financialpost.com/2011/09/15/home-sales-down-but-market-stable/
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
University enrolment for first year students is at a record level this September, surpassing even the "double cohort" year. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/article/586327--ontario-universities-prepare-for-record-wave-of-frosh
Friday, August 12, 2011
Of note in the upcoming August 15 City of Waterloo Council meeting is the proposed demolition of 168 King/12 James Street as well as Paul Ellingham's address to Council on behalf of Northdale residents.
Further details here:
http://www.waterloo.ca/Portals/57ad7180-c5e7-49f5-b282-c6475cdb7ee7/CS_CLERKS_Minutes_2011/20110815_Agenda_Council_Meeting.pdf
Monday, July 18, 2011
CREA is reporting a 2.6% increase in June sales nation-wide. With interest rates expected to remain low, real estate is in good shape. More info here: http://business.financialpost.com/2011/07/15/canadas-housing-market-on-solid-footing-crea/
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Great Great update in today's Record on the Caroline/Erb corner. Count up the amount of $$$$$ under construction...here's the article: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/564119--waterloo-s-building-block
Thursday, July 14, 2011
With the US political system in disaray, is the US about to hit Banana Republic status? Financial Post article here:
http://opinion.financialpost.com/2011/07/13/william-watson-u-s-turn-to-be-banana-republic/
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
This from KW Record from today:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/561718--waterloo-has-high-taxes-high-debt-high-incomes
Nice comparison of Waterloo relative to other Southwestern municipalities. Nothing surprising here...or anyone in Waterloo doesn't already know..
Monday, July 11, 2011
Ontario Leads the way in Better than Expected New Home Starts. Details here: http://ow.ly/5BjNc
Monday, July 11, 2011
Northdale Home owners seek Zoning change in future discussions with City to make land assembly attractive to a developer. Details here: http://ow.ly/5BjVr
Friday, July 8, 2011
Locally, the area saw signficant declines in the unemployment rate. All Cities in the area are posting better than national average employment numbers:
More info here: http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/560008--unemployment-rate-holds-nationally-drops-locally
Friday, July 8, 2011
June numbers are in and the local real estate market has posted an exceptional month. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/559244--wedding-season-fails-to-rebuff-house-sales
Friday, July 8, 2011
Conestoga College is on the brink of opening a large $22 Million wing and a $91 Million teaching building. Details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/559967--conestoga-college-to-open-huge-expansion
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Citing Charter of Rights issues, the City of Kitchener has stricken the Cedar Hill Bylaw. To bring people up to speed, the City wanted to ban further "plexing" of buildings in his area.Details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/551312--city-of-kitchener-kills-cedar-hill-bylaw
Monday, June 20, 2011
A $103 MM Global Innovation Building will be constructed at Hemlock and Hazel - the site of the current St. Mike's WLU Campus. Full details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/550443--province-gives-wilfrid-laurier-university-72-6-million
Monday, June 20, 2011
Several Northdale home owners have banded together to put their homes on the market, feeling that the new rental licensing program will devalue them. Full details here: http://swo.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20110620/waterloo-for-sale-rental-protest-110620/20110620/?hub=SWOHome
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Even though support for LRT in Waterloo Region was mixed at best, Regional Council voted to pass it last night. Details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/548497--rail-plan-passes
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The future of Light Rail Transit in KWC will become clearer tonight with Regional vote. Details here: http://ow.ly/5icLF
Monday, June 13, 2011
Investors: we knew this would only be a matter of time. Tonight, City of Kitchener, is formally proposes to study rental licensing. Undoubtedly, there will be more to this in the upcoming weeks.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Canadian unemployment went down in May while Regional unemployment went up...having said that, Region is still a tick below the Canadian average. Details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/545678--canadian-unemployment-rate-falls-to-7-4-per-cent-as-22-300-jobs-added-in-may
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Both UW and WLU are reporting incidents of bed bugs in their residence...obviously if they are in their residences, they are coming to off campus housing soon...details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/544888--reported-incidence-of-bed-bugs-increases-at-uw-wlu
Saturday, June 4, 2011
KWC residential real estate continued to outperform, posting better numbers, year over year from last May...surprising as the month of heavy rains didn't seem to keep the buyers away...note the average home sale prices...details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/542489--region-house-sales-get-spring-boost
Friday, June 3, 2011
Interesting article in Financial Post today. Consensus is that a lot of action in the major Canadian markets is due to foreign investment. As most people are aware, Canada has survived - even thrived - for the last four years while most of the rest of the world has suffered real estate-wise during the recession. Canada's real estate market is not a suprise to foreign investors, and OFSI is concerned that should a bubble development in another country, like China, it could spread to what OFSI considers "transient" foreign investments in Canada...details here:
http://business.financialpost.com/2011/06/03/ofsi-to-gauge-influence-of-foreign-investment-could-stress-test-banks/
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The housing market may be feeling a "post recession" hang over, but The Region's vacancy rate in rentals is expected to trend downward. Further details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/540301--housing-starts-sales-expected-to-slide-this-year
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Hard to believe, but US market has hit another low point, experiencing a double dip with the percentage reduction in housing price (33%) the worst since the Great Depression. Details here:
http://business.financialpost.com/2011/05/31/u-s-housing-double-dip/
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
City Council voted 6-1 to accept the Rental Licensing Proposal tabled last night. Amongst the speakers, the Ontario Human Rights Commission had a lot to say and expressed serious concern about the By Law. Full details here: http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/529704--rental-bylaw-may-discriminate-waterloo-council-warned
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Waterloo's revised, proposed, Rental Licensing By Law is still drawing concerns from the Ontario Human Rights Commission and KW Association of Realtors. More details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/515539--revised-rental-housing-bylaw-still-raises-concerns
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Like it or hate it, the Revised Rental Licensing By-Law Proposal goes to Council for Vote on Monday, May 9, 2011. At the very least, this night promises to be very entertaining. Here's the link for more details:
http://www.waterloo.ca/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=1&mid=449&def=News%20Article%20View&ItemId=1539
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
More foreclosures on horizon as US economy gradually starts to improve. Pre-housing bubble pricing in effect. Details here:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b6669176&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
On Monday, April 11, 2011, Waterloo City Council unanimously moved to accept the Waterloo Rental Licensing Housing By-Law for formal review and public consultation. The report creates a framework to create a new, low density housing, rental licensing regime.
From when the proposal was first tabled in January – and then subsequently withdrawn in the face of vocal opposition – the consensus was that some form of by-law was coming. In the months since January, the group, Protecting Rental Options Waterloo (PROW), with WRAMA support, lobbied City Staff, Council, University representatives and other stakeholder groups, to provide input in shaping the proposal.
As evidenced by the Council meeting, there is still a ways to go.
From a landlording perspective, this additional level of bureaucracy will increase costs by requiring a fee to join the program – as well as require an ongoing annual fee. Glen Trachsel, WRAMA president, called these fees a tenant tax in his address to council and felt it wasn’t fair for “ma and pa” operators of non-student duplexes, triplexes and single family rental homes to be drawn into the City’s “student problem.”
Bill Keay, WRAMA Board Member, impressed upon Council just how devastating the legislation was from an investor’s perspective. He ALSO felt that new immigrants to the area would also be effectively shut out of the rental market by rental licensing.
PROW members, Gweneth Minaker and Heather Galt, also assembled a compelling two part power point presentation. Their focus was on keeping costs of the program low and creating a fair by law – to all stakeholders. In essence, PROW has asked that the scale and scope of the by law to be re-examined and re-worked.
Under the proposal, the act of accepting a rent cheque means that a landlord will have to provide floor plans, maintenance plan, parking plan, criminal record check, HVAC inspection, and garbage plan- in addition to electrical and fire code compliance. Several of the lobbying groups mentioned that these onerous requirements would reduce the supply of affordable rental housing as landlords pull out of the market – or are shut out of the market by the legislation.
In this new regime, tenants will be the most adversely affected. Lack of choice and increased cost is anticipated when the proposal is fully implemented. As supply decreases and pressure on the rental housing market increases, rentals will go underground – resulting in safety compromises. Erasure of rights that tenants enjoy under the Residential Tenancy Act is anticipated. Human rights and privacy legislation is also trounced by the proposal.
WRAMA, through PROW, is committed to re-working Waterloo’s Rental Licensing program. Note that lodging house owners have seen some gains since the original proposal’s release. We remain committed to working with The City to shape the proposed rental licensing regime to ensure an equitable legislation for all stakeholders. We appreciate your support and hope that everyone takes a moment to write or e-mail Waterloo City Staff and Council with your thoughts. For more information, please check out www.SaveWaterloo.caor, on the facebook group, “Stakeholders Against Waterloo’s Revised Rental Licensing”.
For information on The Record's report of last night's Council meeting concerning the Rental Licensing By-law discussion , check out:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/515539--revised-rental-housing-bylaw-still-raises-concerns
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
After its retraction in January, 2011, Waterloo staff has released a new proposal as it relates to rental licensing. Full details, including a summary of the changes that have occurred since the original proposal was tabled, are available here:
http://www.waterloo.ca/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=1&mid=449&def=News%20Article%20View&ItemId=1525
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Local real estate sales were down in March from previous March, but very average relative to years past. More details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/512436--housing-market-set-for-an-average-spring
Monday, April 4, 2011
Here is recent article in Canadian Real Estate Magazine regarding my thoughts on Waterloo's proposed rental licensing by law: http://www.canadianrealestatemagazine.ca/news/76231/details.aspx
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Public hearings on Official Plan Amendment No. 81 & Zoning By-law Amendment Application Z-11-03 MacGregor Albert Heritage Conservation District, MacGregor Public School and Waterloo Public Library Uptown Ward 7, City of Waterloo to be heard on April 4. Link below has further details including map of area affected:
http://www.waterloo.ca/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=1&mid=449&def=News%20Article%20View&ItemId=1515
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
US real estate continues to slide with February being the lowest for new home construction on record. Details here:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b6263799&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Major banks began process of ratcheting down interest rates for fear that issues in Japan could have a spill over into the global economy. Details here:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b6256536&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Friday, March 11, 2011
Under new mortgage rule changes, effective March 18, 2011, the 35 year ammortized mortgage will be a thing of the past. Click here for more:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b6206977&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Friday, March 11, 2011
The cost of a university education has increased significantly over the past years, with Ontario residents becoming concerned - even as they note the importance of a degree in today's job market. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/495573--ontarians-worry-about-costs-of-post-secondary-education
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Home owners and landlords, check this article out. I just had a new furnace installed in my home - reason being is the old black pipe had a leak - and replacement was estimated to be $700.
Imagine if you had black pipe framed and drywalled in...here's the article:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/499216--homeowners-may-have-to-replace-furnace-water-heater-pipes
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
This is a super interesting article regarding state of US real estate. When I attended the Prudential Convention last weekend, I found out, as an example, that 37% of the homes bought in Arizona were purchased by CANADIANS. 37%.
Needless to say, during Canadian networking events, we were vistied by our California, Florida and Arizona peers : )
Here's the article:
http://www.ccim.com/newscenter/international-buyers-fuel-residential-market
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Volume of homes sold in KW was down in February. On positive, actual prices increase over 3% from the previous February. Clikc here for more info:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/495813--home-sales-fall-6-7-in-february-but-still-above-average
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Scotiabank is predicting re-sales will moderate in 2011 - about 15% below 2007 levels - but about average for the past ten years...more details here:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b6105764&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Saturday's opening of the City Centre Condo sales office was an important step forward. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/492757--downtown-condo-project-takes-step-forward
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Canada’s national housing agency says the pace of new-home construction will stabilize in 2011 and 2012 after trending lower at the end of last year. Details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/canada/article/488981--housing-starts-to-stabilize-cmhc-report
Monday, February 14, 2011
Commercial investments up 45% of $18.9 Billion in 2010! Details here: http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b5951149&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Report mentions strengthening economy, investor confidence as main factors...
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Residents still left without vision for area for another year as Council extends Moratorium on State, Fir and Hickory Streets. Click here for details:
http://www.waterloo.ca/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=1&mid=449&def=News%20Article%20View&ItemId=1481
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Residential home owners with be affected by reducing proceeds on re-fi - as well as other changes. More details here:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b5674448&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Rental Licensing has been proposed in Waterloo - and it is wicked, wicked legislation. Bad for landlords, bad for tenants, bad for the Citizens of Waterloo.
Please support our fight and sign up today:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/home.php?sk=group_179891552042975
Thursday, January 13, 2011
The sentiment in the room at Waterloo's First Rental Licensing Open House was anger and outrage. Read more about it:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/474004--landlords-afraid-of-rental-housing-licensing-system-pack-meeting
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
I lasted about five minutes (out of my scheduled ten) before I was asked to leave the mic at City Hall.
Full details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/319904--angry-landlords-mad-as-hell-over-bedroom-limits
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
City Council was introduced to Staff's Proposed Rental Housing By-Law. It was rejected outright and sent back for revision. See file for Waterloo Council's minutes on this meeting.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Thursday, January 6, 2011
The long anticipated Waterloo rental licensing program is expected to be released around 4 pm today. For details on this crucial, PROPOSED, piece of legislation, check out this link after 4 PM today:
www.waterloo.ca/rhlr
If you have concerns, after reviewing the document, please contact me. WRAMA and the Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Board will be preparing a position on the legislation.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Article in Record describing students' plight after coming home to find their home flooded.
I am checking with insurance broker to see if tenant insurance couldn't have alleviated the situation...
Here's the full article:
http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/309057--students-left-homeless
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
In today's Waterloo Chronicle the City has advertised that they will be releasing a 'proposed rental licensing report' to the public on January 6th, via the website www.waterloo.ca/RHLR or for pickup at the Bylaw Dept at City Hall.
There will be public review open houses at the following times, all at Bauer Haus, The Waterloo Memorial REC Complex, 101 Father David Bauer Drive:
Thurs Jan 13, 2011, 6:30-8:30
Tues Jan 18, 2011, 6:30-8:30
and Thurs Jan 20, 2011 3:00-5:00pm
To register for the open houses, due to space limitations, email rental@waterloo.ca
They plan to table the report to Council on January 10th, and expect the bylaw to be considered in February.
Let's all make sure we watch this closely and be sure the City recommendations are realistic and fair, and do not adversely affect our property values!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
With all the gloom and doom in the international economy in 2010, Canadian real estate shone and was recognized as a top performer. Full details here: http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b5483890&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Check out attachment for latest CMHC report! Note that it goes into great detail in terms of rent achieved per bedroom in specific zones and also calculates vacancy.
This is THE Rental Market Report!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
This is an elightening article which should help you in "managing the manager." Things to watch (or watch out) for when considering property management...
http://blog.buildium.com/2010/11/29/10-property-management-pitfalls/
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Just announced! Dundee REIT is purchasing several office buildings - in total 945,000 SF...full details here:
http://www.therecord.com/news/business/article/301596--dundee-reit-to-acquire-kitchener-waterloo-properties
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Superb home backing on to woodlands! Close to RIM and easy access to Expressway. Spoil yourself!
Check out the supplemental pictures and the virtual tour!
http://www.teammilovick.com/real_estate_for_sale_detail.php?listing_id=67
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Student landlords in St. Catherines have won a key victory in the City's attempt to discriminate against student tenants:
http://www.stcatharinesstandard.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2881731
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Forecasters are predicting a 3% increase in Canadian Housing prices for 2011. Here's the article:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b5343558&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
For investors with 25% down, that is a 12% capital appreciation...
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
After red hot start to 2010, softening mid year and rebound near tail end of 2010, CMHC is predicting Canadian housing market to be stable in 2011...
Click link below for details:
http://money.ca.msn.com/banking/bankrate/article.aspx?cp-documentid=26587550
Saturday, December 4, 2010
A lot of things are happening in Cambridge - with one of the bigger projects being the Waterscape luxury condo development.
Here's today's article in the Toronto Star:
http://www.yourhome.ca/homes/realestate/siteprofiles/article/900107--cambridge-the-little-town-that-grew
Friday, December 3, 2010
Investors: many people do not understand how mortgage rates are derived. Short term rates are derived by money market dynamics and long term rates are generated by prevailing bond rates. Banks, when they lend, they lend based on a spread on these rates. When interest rates change, it is a result of a change in these markets.
Here are the rates for December 1, 2010
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=c5305750&utm_source=markets&utm_medium=rss
Note that you can subcribe to the CanadianBusiness RSS feed for rate updates...here is the link:
http://www.canadianbusiness.com/rss/index.jsp
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
December 14 will be comittee of adjustment meeting to determine applications/minor variances for:
12 story apartment building (corner of King and Ezra).
10 story apartment building (corner of King and James)
student townhouse complex into condos (80 Churchill)
Land severance proposal (174 Clayfield)
See attached file for full details...
Monday, November 29, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Waterscape project won a prestigious brownfield development award from the Canadian Urban Institute. Read more details on this as well as an update on Phase 2 in link below:
http://news.therecord.com/article/819942
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Investors! Check out this link:
http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/819443
This is where the new Go, VIA, Greyhound and Grand River Transit hub will go!
Can I send you listings within a kilometer of this location?
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
The City will be beginning a study concerning land use and community improvement for the Northdale area.
Please download the attachments for the draft terms of reference and composition of the Northdale Special Project committee.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Details in link below! Look for Blackberry and iPhone versions shortly!
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/November2010/12/c3544.html
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
KW area has had thirteen years of consecutive, residential price increase. (Find me a stock that has had the some, consistent performance : )
Please find KW MLS report attached.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
KW Board's November press release - no price softening in our area:
http://creastats.crea.ca/kitc/
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Waterloo Council is : Ward 1) Scott Wittmer 2) Karen Scian 3) Angela Vieth 4) Dianne Freeman 5) Mark whaley 6) Jeff Henry ( new) 7) Melissa Durrel ( new). Mayor is Brenda Halloran.
Here's a link to the Unofficial Results:
http://www.waterloo.ca/election2010/results.html
Prior to the election the KW real estate board sent out a survey to each candidate http://www.kwreb.on.ca/meet-the-candidates/
If you go to question 7 you can see each councilor's opinion on rental licensing.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Thinking of moving to KWC? What areas have the best schools? Click here!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
KWREB Setember Media Release
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
KWREB 2010 Sales Statistics
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Check out this link for political candidates and their position, in particular, on Rental Licensing:
http://www.kwreb.on.ca/meet-the-candidates/
Know who you are voting for - and how they could affect your income property investment! For the Waterloo candidates, check out the candidates and their response to Question 7.
Friday, September 3, 2010
KW Home Sales Ease in August, Up Year to Date
Friday, September 3, 2010
KW Real Estate Statistics for August, 2010.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Rent increase guideline announced. FRPO comments on impact this will have to Ontario rental industry.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Canada wide rental statistics! See how your area matches up to other areas around Canada.
Monday, June 14, 2010
You CAN make a difference at The City level in municipal politics! Read all about it!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Bad ideas, when brought to light and then forcefully opposed by community stakeholders, are very rarely enacted. Read all about it. Makes me wonder about the position of the other dissenters on other landlord type issues.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Pay and Display parking in a residential neighbourhood? Is this a student tax grab or what? Something isn't right at The City. Try to envision Pay and Display meters and visitors being charged to park on your street. Whether you live in Waterloo, Kitchener, GTA or elsewhere, this isn't right. Check out the links for more info on this contentious issue.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Kitchener and Guelph Statistics broken down by Zone, Building Type and Unit Type. Awesome source of information for projected income streams and current vacancy rates.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
WRAMA - Student Housing Update by Mike Milovick
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Realtor Mike comments on By Law enforcement as it relates to Student Housing. Progressive solutions for progressive people.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Things are happening in Waterloo! Highest value of building permits since 1989! Investors take note!
Thursday, February 1, 2007
High end student condos! Ultra uber factor! True loft living - for students! Great condo conversion project!