Annex real estate expertise with Yvonne O’Hara

Yvonne O'Hara
Sales Representative

Bidding wars have become a common occurrence in today’s market. Also common are quick renovations and staging of properties to maximize marketability with the resulting quick sale. This practice has become commonplace because of the demand for “done” houses. Many buyers just don’t want to deal with the headaches of renovating and frankly just wouldn’t know where to begin.

If you are not this kind of buyer, you may not be content with someone else’s renovations or tastes. You may also recognize that often they are not done well due to time constraints and budgets. Don’t buy someone else’s bad reno!

Often houses that are dated and in need of many repairs are overlooked. As soon as a house sits on MLS for more than a few days, it becomes suspect. Don’t fall into this trap. These houses should be inspected. If the listing doesn’t have pictures and seems reasonably priced, go and take a look. Pay attention to descriptions such as, “renovators dream” or “handyman’s special”. Be prepared to buy an ugly house!!

Narrow down your neighbourhoods, pay attention to the lot size and investigate the immediate surround-ings. Remember that you can change almost everything when renovating but you can’t change the location.

If you allow yourself the time to renovate your own home, you will spend many more enjoyable years there. The job will be done to suit your lifestyle, taste and will be completed, supervised by you. Take the time to find a reputable architect or designer as well as a known, trusted general contractor. Ask your friends, family and colleagues for recommendations. Then go and look at their work and talk to their past clients. Any professional who has nothing to hide will be more than happy to give you these references.

Be patient, be open-minded and reap the benefits, for there will be many.

FEATURED PROPERTY
28 Lola Road

A perfect example, a three bedroom, detached house in a vibrant neighbourhood. The lot is 28 feet by 107 and even widens towards the back. The main floor has a good sized living room with a fireplace, dining room, kitchen and a breakfast room. It has a great big yard and a detached garage. The basement is just waiting to be turned into a family room.

This house has a wide lot, good bones and has great potential with a fabulous renovation!

Yvonne O’Hara | Sales Representative
RE/MAX Unique Inc., Brokerage | 416.928.6833
www.YvonneOHara.com • yohara@trebnet.com