Royal LePage predicts further home price appreciation, contrary to recent talk of decline: National real estate price correction not likely until 2013 at the earliest

The Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast released on January 12 showed the average price of a home in Canada increased between 3.6 and 6.1 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011, compared to the previous year. Royal LePage expects average price growth to continue through 2012 and predicts national average prices to increase by 2.8 per cent by the end of the year.

Despite calls in some quarters for Canadian house prices to soften in 2011, the market proved resilient as demand created by low interest rates and a relatively stable national economy created upward pricing pressure for all housing types surveyed. Further, recent high profile reports forecasting significant house price declines in 2012 are not supportable. Nationally, consumer confidence in the housing market was high in the fourth quarter as real estate brokers witnessed an unusually high quantity of multiple offer situations, including over the holiday season, compared to same period in previous years. Read the full press release.

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and the know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave at info@propertiesinvictoria.com

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K

The residential real estate in market in St. John’s, Newfoundland saw strong year-over-year price gains across all three housing types surveyed every quarter this year. However, market has showed signs of cooling as inventory starts to rise. 

Detached bungalows and two-storey houses in Montreal saw an 8.7 per cent year-over-year increase in the fourth quarter, while standard condominiums jumped 11.3 per cent. Average prices in Montreal are forecast to increase by a more modest 3 per cent in 2011 as a more balanced market emerges.

Ottawa’s housing market saw year-over-year price appreciation ranging between 6.3 and 10 per cent across all housing types surveyed this quarter. However, as inventory grows, Ottawa can expect price increases to be closer to 4 percent in 2011.

House prices surveyed in Toronto increased modestly year-over-year. Standard two-storey homes witnessed the largest increases at 5.6 per cent. Market activity slowed in the second half of the year as buyers rushed to the market in the first half of the year in anticipation of interest rate hikes and HST.  For 2011, price increases are expected to be very modest at approximately 1 per cent.

Detached bungalows, standard two-storey homes, and standard condominiums in Winnipeg witnessed strong year-over-year price gains this quarter. Detached bungalows performed the strongest, increasing 10.3 per cent compared to the fourth quarter of 2009. Although the market is showing signs of cooling, sellers are still seeing multiple offers and are often receiving higher than their asking price. Winnipeg is expected to maintain its momentum throughout 2011 with prices rising around 7 per cent.

Single family homes performed best in Regina, which saw standard two-storey homes increase 9.1 per cent, while detached bungalows rose 8.4% and standard condominiums increased 2.4 per cent. Prices in Regina are expected to increase an overall average of 5 percent in 2011.

Both Calgary and Edmonton are positioned for house price increases in 2011 with a rebounding energy sector. In 2010, Calgary witnessed moderate year-over-year price depreciation across all housing types surveyed. Edmonton saw more modest price depreciation for two-storey houses, while condominiums decreased 5.7 per cent. Detached bungalows witnessed the only price increase among housing types surveyed at 1.2 per cent.

Single family homes in Vancouver dominated house price gains as two-storey houses rose year-over-year by 9.8 per cent in 2010. Condominiums on the East Side performed particularly well and, on average, Vancouver’s standard condominium market rose 7 per cent.  Vancouver prices are expected to increase 3.7 per cent in 2011.

Royal LePage’s quarterly House Price Survey shows the annual change of prices for key housing segments in select national markets. Click here to view the chart 

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and the know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

 Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

The average price of a home in Canada increased between 3.9 and 4.6 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to the previous year, as markets shrugged off a lackluster third quarter and returned to a post-recession growth profile. Home values are forecast to continue a moderate and steady climb in many of the country’s key housing markets through 2011 with sales activity skewed to the first half of the year, according to the Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast released today. 

The low cost of borrowing stimulated the housing market in 2010, and this trend is predicted to continue in the first half of 2011. The widely held consumer belief that rates will rise in the latter part of 2011 may prompt an increase in buying activity early in the year. 

“Trends in the housing market continue to be driven by the lingering after-effects of the recession,” said Phil Soper, president and chief executive of Royal LePage Real Estate Services.  “Canadians realize that interest rates are unsustainably low and that homes will become effectively more expensive when mortgage rates return to normal levels.  We will likely see more price appreciation early in 2011 as some buyers complete transactions in advance of anticipated higher borrowing costs.” 

Soper added, “2011 is expected to unfold much like 2010, when close to 60 per cent of sales volume occurred in the first half of the year in anticipation of interest rate increases that never materialized. However, housing market activity in the first half of 2011 will be modestly closer to the norm, as last year’s phenomenon was exacerbated by mid-year tightening of mortgage accessibility and the introduction of HST in Ontario and British Columbia.” 

Regionally, the strongest price appreciation of the cities studied is expected in mid-sized urban centers where affordability is better than the national average. For example, in Winnipeg, St. John’s and Fredericton, two-storey homes below $300,000 are still widely available. Demand in these cities is expected to be strong, putting upward pressure on home values. 

Cities in Alberta are expected to be among Canada’s strongest performing markets in 2011. Woes in the historically volatile region’s housing market stretch approximately five years, when the Alberta housing market suffered a sharp correction following several years of double-digit price increases.  The province’s energy-driven economy staged a comeback in 2010, recovering from the recession-led plunge in oil and gas prices.  Major employers are expected to steadily increase hiring in 2011 which should attract new residents to the province and put upward pressure on the limited supply of housing. Royal LePage forecasts the average price of a home in Calgary will increase 5.4 per cent through 2011 while Edmonton home prices will increase 3.3 per cent. Home sale transactions are predicted to rise 6.7 per cent in Calgary and 9.1 per cent in Edmonton over the same period. 

Across Canada, the average price of a home is forecast to rise 3 per cent over the coming year to $348,600 while the number of transactions is expected to drop 2 per cent. 

During the fourth quarter of 2010, average home prices either increased or stabilized year-over-year, with Winnipeg, Ottawa, Montreal and St. John’s seeing the biggest gains.  Nationally, the average price of detached bungalows rose to $324,531 (up 4.6 per cent), the price of standard two-storey homes rose to $360,329 (up 4.4 per cent), and the price of standard condominiums rose to $226,746 (up 3.9 per cent), compared to the fourth quarter of 2009. 

Mr. Soper continued, “Like many Canadians, we anticipated an end to the ultra-low interest rate era before year-end 2010.  Paradoxically, global economic weakness, particularly in the United States, allowed policy makers and financial institutions to keep borrowing costs low, resulting in a stronger Canadian housing market and a better than forecast fourth quarter.”

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and the know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

 Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K.

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing like a warm, cozy bedroom where you can shut the door, be yourself and just relax at the end of a long day. This winter, treat yourself to a bedroom “getaway” that’s comfortable, restful and beautiful.

Step 1: Get a great bed.
You spend a third of your life in it; buy the best mattress you can afford. Choose a frame with a headboard that’s comfortable to lean back on when you’re reading or watching TV.

Step 2: Invest in quality bedding.
- Pick high-thread count linens for smooth, luxurious comfort, or try some super-soft flannel sheets for extra snuggle factor.
- Stock up on lots of pillows and a fluffy duvet. Down, wool, silk and synthetic fill are all great options for winter warmth.
- Incorporate textures like velvet, wool and satin with blankets, throws and pillows.
- Don’t forget the bed skirt – it’s a great finishing touch and it hides whatever’s under the bed.

Step 3: Lose the clutter.
There’s nothing relaxing about dusty stacks of magazines or piles of laundry. Get rid of stuff that doesn’t have to be in your room, and organize the rest into closets, night tables and armoires so your space is uncluttered and serene.

Step 4: Colour it peaceful.
Paint the room a soft, pleasing shade. Highlight one wall with a slightly bolder colour to create an instant “headboard” for your bed or showcase photos. Paint your ceiling a lighter version of the wall colour for a cozy feel.

- Cool colours, such as pale blue, green, and lavender are calming, and they make the room feel airy and spacious.
- Warm colours, like creamy yellow or soft pink are peaceful and feminine.
- Neutrals are soothing and elegant, and they go with anything.
- Stay away from bold colours, since they tend to stimulate rather than relax you.

Step 5: Rearrange the furniture.
This step is easy – and free! Just putting your bed in a different spot can be surprisingly rejuvenating. Try placing it on an angle for an unexpected twist.

Step 6: Create a seating area.
Get a comfortable chair with an ottoman, add a reading lamp, and you’ll have a lovely reading corner that’s perfect for some quiet solitude.

Step 7: Control the light.
Invest in some simply styled blackout curtains to keep out the sun. Install soft lighting with a dimmer for a romantic touch. For a hit of unexpected poshness, hang a chandelier above the bed.

Step 8: Don’t forget the floor.
Protect your tootsies from the cold with a soft, cushy carpet or area rugs with an extra-thick underpad.

When the snow is piling up outside, there’s no better place to end your day than in a luxurious bedroom. This, more than any other space in your home, is about you. Make it yours!

What is thread count?
Thread count is the number of vertical and horizontal threads in one square inch of fabric. The higher the count, the denser, softer and more durable the fabric.

Clean and white
For a crisp boutique hotel look, try all-white linens. All your sheets will “go” with each other, so no worries if a pillowcase goes missing. If anything gets stained, you can bleach it.

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K

The dramatically rising cost of home heating is a bothersome concern for most Canadians. Heating your home efficiently this winter will be the key to keeping your energy costs under control. Here are some quick, easy and, most importantly, inexpensive ways to maximize warmth and minimize impact to your pocketbook:

- Adjust Your Personal Thermostat: Wear a sweater and dress warmly around the house. When you’re stationary, watching television or reading, you’re most susceptible to a chill, so toss a throw around you. Since hot air rises, resist the icy influence of cooler floors with thick socks or slippers.

- Adjust Your Home Thermostat: It goes without saying that the less energy you use, the lower your heating bills will be. Set your thermostat at 21°C when you’re home awake, 18°C when you’re sleeping and 15°C when you’re out of the house. Purchase a programmable thermostat to reduce you heating bill by as much as 20 per cent.

- Let the Sun Shine In: While up to 25 per cent of your home’s heat is lost through its windows, they are also a source of solar warmth. During daylight hours, keep your drapes open and let the sun help heat your home. Insulate your windows with plastic film to reduce heat loss by 50 per cent. Insulating curtains are expensive, but pay for themselves within 7 years.

- Seal the Leaks: Caulk, seal and weather strip around windows and doorframes, baseboards, ducting and electrical outlets to save up to 20 per cent on your heating bill. Remember to close your fireplace flue when you’re not enjoying a fire. Install a door sweep to resist against under-the-door drafts. Turn off the heat supply and close the door to unused rooms, such as a guest bedroom. Close interior doors leading to hallways or stairways to keep the heat where it’s needed most.

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K

Mortgage Rates Effective: November 6 2009

*Rates subject to change without notice *

For more information about these rates and for mortgage inquires please contact Kerry Patten or Susan English at www.primemortgageworks.com

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K.

Mortgage Rates Effective: October 23, 2009

**Rates subject to change without notice *

For more information about these rates and for mortgage inquires please contact Kerry Patten or Susan English at www.primemortgageworks.com

f you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River

As expected, the Bank of Canada announced that it will be maintaining the overnight rate of a quarter per cent, with a continued “conditional commitment” to maintain that until the second quarter of 2010. In its official press release it stated that “recent indicators point to the start of a global recovery from a deep, synchronous recession …. [T]his resumption of growth is supported by monetary and fiscal stimulus, increased household wealth, improving financial conditions, higher commodity prices, and stronger business and consumer confidence.”

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K

Mortgage Rates Effective: October 16, 2009

**Rates subject to change without notice *

For more information about these rates and for mortgage inquires please contact Kerry Patten or Susan English at www.primemortgageworks.com

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Victoria BC in the future, just let us know. Our team of professionals has the knowledge and know how to meet your needs. Contact Bill or David at Properties In Victoria Professional™ team. You can consult their Victoria Real Estate website www.PropertiesInVictoria.com or just email Bill and Dave

Cheers,

Bill

Properties in Victoria Professionals™- Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty

Bill has been a REALTOR® in Victoria since 2006. Originally from the Vancouver area, Bill moved to Victoria to attend the University of Victoria where he received his Bachelor of Science. Not only does Bill have a wealth of real estate knowledge he is also an active member of the community. He is a member of Triple Shot Cycling Club, Island Road Racers and is the Race Director for the Sooke River 10K