Barrie Stats and More...

It's been a while since I've posted... Busy couple of weeks. To improve my service to my clients, I've recently hired a non-licensed assistant/client care manager, named Terri Tracey. She has had a great deal of experience working in an office setting, and dealing with the public. Terri and I look forward to working together to continue to bring high quality service to all of our clients.

In addition to that, last week, I attended the Real Estate Update course. As REALTORS®, we take this course every two years to make sure that we are all staying current on what is happening in our industry. Not only is it informative, it is a great way to touch base with other REALTORS® in the community, with whom I work on a daily basis. One thing I really enjoy about working in Simcoe County, is that it is a fairly small community (as compared to the GTA). We get to work with great colleagues from all of the different offices around the area.

Then, on Friday, I attended another seminar, to again further my knowledge in building systems into the way I work. By having outlined systems, we are then able to ensure that every step is taken care of for each client - nothing gets missed. By doing this, I'm then able to concentrate on each client's unique needs.

That, along with client matters has kept me very busy.

In relation to actual Real Estate news, I'm VERY pleased to have recently read the October 2009 Statistics from the Barrie and District Association of REALTORS®. This past October marked the highest level of sales on record for the area served by our Board. The sales activity jumped 39% from last October, in addition to being the 5th consecutive increase from previous year's levels. This is great news for those who want to make a move, and great news for our economy!

To read the full report, as well as other reports that talk about employment trends, interest rate changes, consumer confidence and migration, click here .

Until next time! Jamie

Hard to get financing - there is another way

I know with the economy today, many people are wanting to get into the real estate market, and are having difficulties. Often times, the challenges don't result from not having a job. Sometimes, people are self employed or have had bad credit in the past. This credit issue could even be a bankruptcy that hasn't yet been discharged. Certainly if you can get financing through a mortgage specialist, that is ideal as you can take advantage of the great rates at the present time. But, if that is not an option for you, there is another way.

Not too long ago, I came across a very good Rent-To-Own program. After a fair bit of research of their documentation, I learned a lot. A prosective Buyer fills out an application, gets approved (or not), and uses that approval to "purchase" their home. What I like about this particular program is that they work with Buyers to help repair credit issues, work with them to ensure that they can pay their mortgage (even if rates rise), as well as helping them save toward the eventual down payment that they would need at the end of the term. Certainly, this program is not for everyone. The Buyers do need a down payment, as well as enough money to pay the monthly rent/monthly credit. The Buyers also must ensure that their payments are not late, as it jeapordizes the contract.

So, if this sounds like something that you would be interested in learning more about, let me know.

In the meantime, click here to read more about the program.

Tour of Barrie, ON

Just came across this great video showing more pictures about Barrie, and the surrounding areas. Our beautiful city has SO much to offer in terms of nature, theatre, education, and more! What are YOUR favourite things about Barrie, ON?

Please click here to see the video