I never thought I would see the day that I would write my own Blog, but with time comes change. 

2011 was my 20th year in Real Estate and also the year that my Daughter, Mary-Kate, came to join me after working in Real Estate for a while on her own. What I am now learning is Real Estate is fast changing with technology and as we merge our ideas in how to continue in Real Estate, there are lots of exciting times ahead for both us to grow.

Both Mary-Kate and I will be contributing to this blog. Content will vary from topics such as:  new/ unique listings, tips for buyers and sellers, getting your home ready to go to market, restaurant recommendations, community events, but in the end mostly Real Estate based content.

The 2011 market ended with very strong sales numbers. Almost 90,000 houses and condos were traded in 2011, and heading into 2012 predictions are we will continue to enjoy an active strong market.

On Nov 18, 2011, Jason Mercer produced the following predictions in his report, "The Market According to Mercer," to the Toronto Real Estate Board:

•The pace of economic growth has slowed with a more pessimistic outlook for the global economy. For Canada, the greatest impact has been felt in the export sector. 

•With inflation less of a concern compared to the spring, the Bank of Canada has moved away from rate hikes. The forward rate curve suggests rate hikes will not resume until 2013. 

•We are pace for the second best year on record, with a forecast of 90,000 sales in 2011. The baseline forecast is for a slight increase in sales in 2012. This forecast assumes the current consensus view that economic growth will continue in Canada. 

•The average home price in 2011 will come in at 465,000. With more supply in the market in 2012, the pace of price growth will moderate, with the average price rising by 4.5% to $485,000. 

As long as our interest rates continue to stay at their current levels we can look forward to a continued active and strong market for 2012

Mary-Kate and I look forward to working with past clients, and new referrals in 2012.

Claire-Ann

Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Aurich