When it comes to new subdivisions, we give up the mature neighbourhood feel we get in places where trees stretch out and form a green canopy over the street. We exchange this for the convenience of a newly built home in the suburbs with our choice of lot and floor plan, no repairs, and the thrill of being part of a growing community.

However, we frequently overlook the fact that even the most established neighbourhoods today were once brand new. Therefore, we must start like all the older generations and plant trees for our new homes!

So, What Can We Do?

The first step in creating or rebuilding a green canopy is to plant trees where possible on individual lots. It does take time, but not nearly as much time as you might think.

Aside from planting trees, landscaping your yard will help it look more established and comfortable. This will give your garden form and structure, as well as frame the front of your house, and they'll add beauty now and, in the years, to follow. There is an old saying, “the person who plants a tree knowing they will not see its maturity, understands the meaning of life."

Important Tip:

Plant in the fall. Most garden centres cut prices in the fall. You can either save money or get a much more mature tree for the same money. Really a win/win/win. For you, your neighbours, and the planet.

So, let's start planting trees in our newer neighbourhoods! This will not only help the environment, but it will also reward you when it is time to sell!

Contact The Martin Group today for more information, or to find you the right home with beautiful and plentiful trees.

The third-best sales record in TRREB's history was recorded in August 2021. Though the market has seen its normal summer lull, the need for owning homes is evident. Simultaneously, the availability of housing is on the decline. Competition among home buyers has been increasing in this tight market, resulting in double-digit yearly price hikes.

COMPARISON OF RESIDENTIAL STATS FOR AUG 2021 AND 2020 - 

ALL TRREB LISTINGS

Stats retrieved from TRREB

As shown in the graph above, according to TRREB's MLS System, Toronto real estate agents in the Greater Toronto Area saw a 19.9% drop in home sales in August 2021 compared to the previous year's record of 10,738, and new listings filed in the system were down 43 percent compared to the previous year's record of 18,599. Despite the decline, the average selling price continues to rise with a 12.6% increase.

This year's low number of new postings is really troubling. It implies that there is an undersupply of housing, and this will worsen when immigration to Canada increases. With the approaching federal election in mind, the federal parties have all put a focus on housing availability and affordability. 

If we take a further look into The Halton Region, more specifically Burlington and Oakville, you will see that there has also been a tremendous decrease in the number of sales and new listings.

YEAR-OVER-YEAR DATA FOR HALTON REGION, BURLINGTON AND OAKVILLE

Stats retrieved from TRREB

On average, a property in Halton Region costs $1,070,911, up by 3.8 percent according to the most recent MLS data. While the number of sales dropped by 27.5 percent, there was also a 41.7 percent reduction in new listings.

In all three locations, it's clear that now is a great time to sell your home. As a buyer, however, it appears to be considerably more difficult due to a slowdown in new listings and an increase in home values.

Let's take a closer look at how particular property types compare in Burlington and Oakville.

COMPARISON OF MARKET STATS FOR AUG 2021 AND 2020: 

OAKVILLE AND BURLINGTON

Stats retrieved from TRREB

The average price for all property types in Burlington and Oakville has risen. Prices increased by 3.8 percent in the Halton Region alone for all property types. The average price for detached homes in all of the Halton Region increased by 20.8 percent as a result of their popularity. The increasing popularity of detached and semi-detached homes in Oakville and Burlington was reflected in their 21.5% and 19% growth, respectively.

Although the number of sales and listings have declined in Oakville and Burlington, these cities remain popular in the GTA, where home demand continues to rise.

Click here to look at property listings in Burlington and Oakville!

The Martin Group is the go-to brokerage firm if you have any queries regarding the GTA or Halton Region real estate market, whether you're a property buyer or seller. We're here to help with everything you may need.

It’s that time of year again, schools in session! The kids are all getting pumped up in hopes of a better school year than the previous year. As we all know, the pandemic wreaked havoc on children's ability to obtain a proper education, resulting in school closures that forced them to study everything online rather than in person. So what is the 2021/2022 school year going to look like in Oakville and Burlington?

The Reopening Plan for the Halton School Board

The Halton District School Board states that students and staff will be back in secure and productive learning environments by September 2021. They pledge to maintain an inclusive, safe, and discrimination-free environment.

The Reopening School Guide for September 2021 covers five areas: health and family, operations, instruction, wellness and technology. It is essential to understand that things may change. 

Health and family

• Student Self-Assessment and Screening
• Personal Hygiene
• Physical Distance
• Masks, including cloth masks and face coverings
• Enhanced Care Cleaning Procedures
• Environment and Air Flow Fountains for Drinking
• Student Learning Communities
• Potential student with COVID-19 prior to entering school
• Potential student with COVID-19 at School
• Personal protective equipment used by staff members

Operations

They've put out a daily operational plan for a school's involvement in ensuring the safe reopening.

• Family responsibilities
• Student belongings
• The school’s outdoor play structures facilitate entrance and exit points
• School hours and student access
• Lunch and food items
• Academic Calendar
• Before and after-school programs, early childhood educational programs
• On-the-spot crisis resolution

Instruction

The School Board will implement the Ministry of Education's new approach by creating a few days dedicated to face-to-face education in methods that are both engaging and student-centered.

Wellness

Staff members will need to focus on helping kids become reacquainted with one another and rebuild a solid pattern of support as they return to school after being away for some time. Guidance counsellors, social workers, and other school-based support staff will provide all the assistance that students need.

Technology

We will provide students' support through a program geared for those studying through Distance Learning.

The details mentioned are the Halton District School Board's intention to reopen. Their website provides access to further data, and you can also contact your children's schools for more information. 

We've all been swept into a new educational and cultural reality with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Working together, we can minimize the problems faced by our kids as school begins again.

Top Schools in Burlington and Oakville

Some of the best high-ranked public and Catholic schools are outlined below for elementary and secondary students.

Are you looking for a home in Burlington or Oakville, click here to view our active listings!

Contact Glenn Martin today if you have any inquiries about real estate or the schools in the local area.

Swimming pools are enjoyable in the heat, but they haven't always been a top-selling feature in real estate. They don't appeal to every homebuyer who isn't interested in the cost, upkeep, or safety concerns that come with a seasonal feature. However, the demand for swimming pools is only one more way the GTA real estate market has changed during the pandemic. 

When it comes to pool popularity, COVID-19 caused many homebuyers to opt for a pool within their home. Simultaneously, demand has risen for larger homes with more outdoor space, as well as a reduction in leisure and entertainment locations. People were on the lookout for some of the hottest real estate in the GTA when they decided to buy a property with a pool. In a year of heated competition among property purchasers, it turned out that pooled homes were fetching slightly higher prices. As an example, some homes with pools sold for nearly $200,000 more than homes without pools.

Click here to see what houses with outdoor pools are available for sale in the GTA.

In Need of a Vacation?

Families determined that travelling less due to the pandemic and spending more time at home was the best option. Obviously, the more delightful your home is, the more likely you are to miss travelling less and enjoy your home more.

Advantages of Having a Pool

Make a Low-Impact Exercise Option for Yourself - Swimming pools are used for more than just having fun. Owning a swimming pool is like owning a home gym, but only better. Every resident within the home has access to the pool, which allows them to exercise at any time and in a low-impact manner.

Increase the Value of Your Home - Pool installation typically has a lower return on investment than other renovations such as kitchen or bathroom modifications. With the pandemic, however, the return on investment for pools has increased due to the fact that more homeowners are searching for properties with a swimming pool.

Take Advantage of the Convenience and Privacy - In today's hectic environment, finding privacy might be challenging. Having a swimming pool offers natural privacy, allowing you to enjoy a quiet paradise at any time.

Host Get-Togethers and Parties - If you enjoy entertaining guests at your house, you'll enjoy throwing poolside parties. Pools are ideal locations for gatherings and makes organizing a get-together simpler.

When in search of a home with a pool, don’t let the pool be your only focus. Look out for these 6 Warning Signs That Could Mean Expensive Repairs.

What’s Involved with Managing a Pool?

When it comes time to sell, a poorly kept pool will depreciate the value of your home (If you decide to sell in the future). Weekly testing and monitoring of pool water is required, as well as the addition of salt or other chemicals on a regular basis. Pools frequently require more comprehensive treatment. Skimming leaves from the surface, vacuuming the pool, cleaning the skimmer, and backwashing the filter are all weekly activities. Even when the owners are out on vacation, these chores require constant attention. Annual start-up and shutdown for the season, as well as long-term fixture and structural maintenance, are all factors to consider. Many pool owners perform their own maintenance, while others hire someone to do it for them.

If you're ready to start looking for a home with a pool in the GTA and need some guidance from a real estate agent, The Martin Group can assist you.

Contact us today to find the home of your dreams.

A detached house is the style of home that most of us envision when we think of a traditional home, and it's also the type of home that most people desire. If you're looking to buy or sell a detached home in Burlington, below offers some useful information.

Burlington detached home sale prices climbed in June 2021 over the previous year, higher than even our March 2021 peak. The average selling price increased by almost 36% compared to last June. Although the number of sales and new listings have dropped, selling prices remain high for the city of Burlington.

YEAR-OVER-YEAR DATA FOR DETACHED HOMES IN BURLINGTON

Stats retrieved from TRREB

As you can see, the increase in sale prices over the previous year substantially outpaced the increase in number of sales and new listings, making this a great time for sellers.

Interested in buying a detached home in Burlington? There are a vast variety of options available for types of detached properties and which are suitable for particular individuals.

Detached 2-story homes are ideal for single families

One of the most prevalent house designs is a fully detached property with two full storeys (one up and one down, plus basement). These types of detached homes are ideal for single families. Why, you ask? The separation of public and private rooms is made easier with the addition of a second storey and It's a lot more enjoyable to experiment with space massing and scale than it is with just one level if you are the type of individual that likes to re-design and renovate your living space. 

Detached Bungalows are great for the elderly

There are numerous advantages to living on one floor. One-story homes are simple to maintain because everything is on the same level, making maintenance a breeze. They're easier to manage, especially for the elderly who may be unable to properly navigate stairs. A one-story home will mean fewer chances of falls and accidents and also will allow you to safely age in place as you get older. Detached bungalows are also on the cheaper scale compared to 2-story detached homes, making it more affordable and ideal for first-time homebuyers.

Amazing Custom Builds in South Burlington 

Most people desire a home that meets their tastes and needs, is energy efficient or environmentally friendly, and includes cutting-edge technology. They do, however, want a property that is close to work, shopping, dining, and entertainment. South Burlington has become a popular destination for custom builds because they are designed to various requirements, and newer homes are more energy efficient than older homes. Energy-saving features will also conserve vital resources besides saving money. You’ll also be able to avoid costly repairs or renovations, and the best part is that you get to choose where you want to build it. 

Check out some of the current lots/lands that are available now in South Burlington!

The Burlington real estate market, which has become a hotspot for homeowners looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto in search of larger homes, yards with swimming pools, and more breathing room. In addition, The Royal Botanical Gardens and the Art Gallery of Burlington are among the prominent attractions in the Burlington real estate market, which has been attracting purchasers for more than just its residences. 

Check out what listings are available in Burlington now!

Please contact The Martin Group if you have any questions about the Burlington or Halton Region real estate market, whether you are a home buyer or seller. We can gladly assist you with any of your requirements.

The May numbers for the Greater Toronto Area are out! 

With yet another lockdown in the province of Ontario due to COVID-19, sales in May 2021 have dropped short of this year’s March high of 15,646 sales. Despite the minor drop in sales in the prior two months, market conditions have remained competitive in May propelling the average selling price to all time high. Realtors of the Greater Toronto Area recorded 11,951 sales, more than doubling the previous years’ total.

With new listings trending slightly lower than sale numbers, this implies that people who are actively searching to buy a property are still up against a lot of competition from other purchasers, putting a lot of upward pressure on selling prices. This would explain why there has been a high demand for ownership housing, including both single-family homes and condominium apartments.

The real estate market has remained strong throughout the year. Burlington and Oakville real estate communities have been thriving significantly with sales prices reaching new highs compared to May of last year. Let's take a closer look below.
 

According to the most recent Halton Region MLS data, the average property price is $1,193,780, with a 48% increase for new listings. 

If you’ve been considering selling your property in Burlington or Oakville, now is the best time to do so since market circumstances are continuously growing and there are many benefits when selling your home in the summertime. 

Oakville has always been a great place for high-end GTA buyers to find the home of their dreams. Whether it’s Toronto elites looking for something bigger and a comfortable lifestyle or internationals adjusting to the life in the GTA, Oakville was and still is a coveted spot.  Generous space, world-class amenities, custom-made finishes, high-tech home solutions and a splendid very private and serene surrounding is what characterizes Oakville luxury homes. Adding Oakville’s location to the mix, excellent schools, the busy but heritage-rich downtown area as well as great employment opportunities are some of the reasons high-end GTA homebuyers pick Oakville to be their home.  

The demand for Oakville’s luxury housing stayed high even during the pandemic, and we saw a number of luxurious new detached homes (not only condos) being added to the community to meet the demand. Oakville luxury homes for sale vary from old restored heritage homes to contemporary modern new builds, making the variety of choice very wide. Toronto elites, GTA families and internationals looking to buy in the GTA area should explore the Oakville real estate market where some of the most astonishing luxury homes in the GTA can be found.  Here is what they will find.

Oakville’s luxury homes are surrounded by nature
Oakville luxury homes are very secluded and very private, often built on huge private lots surrounded by tree-lined streets, private parks, and sometimes they are very close to the lake. The natural element gives Oakville homes a special touch of peace and quiet, which many high-end Oakville buyers are looking for. Luxury detached homes come often with pools, private backyards, outdoor lounge areas in the front and back, all the while surrounded by green spaces and trees as far as the eye can reach. 

Oakville luxury homes are large with top-notch finishes
Luxury houses in Oakville are very spacious, often having five-six bedrooms, seven-eight bathrooms, a custom made gourmet kitchen equipped with the best and latest appliances, and several family areas that are usually accompanied by a fireplace, hardwood flooring, heated floors and so much more to offer the highest level of comfort. 

Natural lighting and massive windows 
Natural lighting matters to all homebuyers and the more of it there is, the better for the ambiance. And while many luxury homes come with plenty of lighting and windows, it is hard to keep up with the gorgeous resort-like views that can be found in Oakville luxury homes. Floor-to-ceiling windows are an essential part of Oakville luxury housing and not only do they let plenty of natural light in, they also provide you with great views of the impeccable surrounding- the trees, the lake, sometimes a park, etc. It is like living in your own private oasis. 

Top-level safety and convenience with smart technology
From smart alarm and surveillance systems to automated garage doors, automated heating and cooling systems run through Wi-Fi, you will find that Oakville luxury homes for sale are designed to make your day-to-day life easier in every aspect. Smart tech solutions in homes have come very far, and high-end homeowners in Oakville are among the leaders in following the latest trends. 

The luxury real estate market in Oakville is very vibrant, attracting homebuyers from all over the GTA, especially from Toronto, who enjoy having a big house and all the conveniences Oakville offers just 30 minutes away from Toronto. 

If you want to check out Oakville luxury homes and Oakville neighbourhoods, give Martin Group, one of the leading real estate brokers in Oakville, a call or contact Martin Group here.

North Oakville is an upscale urban community where nature, parks, exceptional schools and other amenities make up for a top-notch community that appeals to many homebuyers, especially young families with children. North Oakville boasts a solid infrastructure, very beautiful single detached homes (including preconstruction), stunning architectural designs and a manicured and well-maintained surrounding. If you are a GTA homebuyer looking for an accessible location, a good and spacious family home, picturesque scenery and all-around amenities, here is a little preview of the North Oakville community and why it is a top choice for many GTA homebuyers.  
 
Accessibility
With minutes away from Highways 403, 407, QEW and GO Transit, North Oakville is a convenient commuter town for those working in Toronto (which is only 30 minutes away) or other GTA areas outside Oakville. GO transit trains travel to and from Oakville every 30 minutes, and residents can also count on local buses. Oakville is practically close to everything; it takes 30 minutes to reach Union Station and you can get to the Pearson Airport in the same amount of time. Also, the US border is just one hour away. The efficient highway and transportation network make North Oakville one of the most accessible spots in the GTA.  
 
North Oakville is abundant in amenities
With dozens of activities to do and places to visit, Oakville has always been an active vibrant community where quality of life comes especially to light. From shopping opportunities at Oak Park Smart Centre, Oakville Place, Home Depot, Sobeys, etc., to recreational facilities like community centres, Oakville Galleries, Glen Abbey Golf Club, etc., Oakville is well-equipped to serve its growing community.
 
Click here for new listing alerts. See all listings!
 
Scenic views and a rich heritage
North Oakville homebuyers can count on numerous restaurants, parks, museums and a handful of landmarks as a part of the Oakville lifestyle. The Heritage Trails, for example, connect all parts of the Oakville community, while at the same time they represent a true resource of knowledge with the installed information stations that tell stories about the land and the people. The rich culture and heritage interwoven with the Oakville nature and wildlife is what makes Oakville unique and special.
 
The North Oakville neighbourhoods offer comfort, convenience and space
The relatively young neighbourhoods like College Park, River Oaks, Joshua Creek, West Oak Trails, etc., attract a really high number of new homebuyers who are mostly drawn to the nice houses and townhomes, the secluded locations allowing for privacy and the reputable Oakville schools which generally rank among the top 20% of all Ontario schools. Many of North Oakville neighbourhoods are known for generous lot sizes that ensure plenty of private outdoor space. Whether you want to build a children's playground or set up a barbecue lounge area, you will find the needed space in North Oakville. The homes vary in price, so whether you are a GTA luxury homebuyer or looking to buy your first home, you will be able to find the right choice for you.
 
If you want to know more about North Oakville or other GTA neighbourhoods, the houses and prices, contact Martin Group. Martin Group's extensive real estate experience and intimate knowledge of the communities is what homebuyers like the most about working with this team.