We recently met up with a client who was looking to sell her DNA condo. During our meeting it became very evident that her main concern was knowing what percentage of the asking price we expected to deliver to her. Many Realtors use these statistics as a marketing tool for themselves by saying “Sold for 110% of the asking price!” As Realtors we know these statistics don’t carry much weight. However, from the perspective of a potential seller the listing agent looks like a superstar, right?
Pricing your DNA condo for sale is one of the most important parts of the selling process. Determining the listing price depends on a few factors, such as market conditions, comparable sales and of course the unit itself- taking into consideration layout, location and condition. There are few pricing strategies that can be considered once a seller is ready to go to market.
1. A common pricing strategy in a strong buyer’s market is to under price the property and hold off offers until a certain date. It is the seller’s home to generate a multiple offer situation which will in return push the selling price above the asking price. Although the selling price is above the asking price, it does not necessarily reflect that the seller got any more for the property than true market value. It is by using this strategy that you will see agents marketing themselves by stating they sold over the asking price. Keep in mind that a major concern with this strategy is that the buyer can’t actually afford the price of the property generated by the multiple offer situation. More times then none, their original budget was the listing price- not the selling price which can at times go as much as $50 000 over the original asking price.
2. Another strategy is to price the property at market value. This strategy is a safer strategy as it targets the right buyers. If a buyer has been financially pre approved for a mortgage, they know exactly how much they can afford. An offer received that is conditional on financing approval will not be such an issue as the buyer’s have likely already been pre approved at the listing price.
3. A final strategy that is not as common as others is overpricing the property. This option works at it’s best when sellers have no urgency to vacate or don’t have any financial pressure to sell. A seller must carefully consider this option before listing their property as the buyer will most likely be someone who has been waiting specifically for that unit to come onto the market. In other words, the buyer pool will be much smaller for an overpriced unit, however an end user, who has been waiting for the unit will always pay a premium for their primary residence.
In short, don’t be fooled by marketing material that suggests that properties have been sold for well over 100% of asking. As you can see there are many different stratgies that can be carried out when deciding to list and sell your DNA condo. Take the time to carefully consider which option best suits you.
Click on DNA to contact the Condo Chicks about listing your DNA condo for sale.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Friday, August 5, 2011
Condo TV Interview
The Condo Chicks were recently interviewed on their knowledge of the Toronto condo world.
Click on DNA Condos to hire the Condo Chicks to sell or buy your next Toronto condo.
Click on DNA Condos to hire the Condo Chicks to sell or buy your next Toronto condo.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
DNA 1&2 Condos or DNA3 Condos?
When it comes to purchasing a condo unit, many of our buyer clients ask us which is the better choice, buying a resale or pre-construction unit. The difference between the two being that one already physically exists and the other one does not. Deciding which route to take depends on a few factors such as timeline, motive and capital. In the case of DNA Condos on King Street West, buyers currently have the choice to go either way. DNA Condos 1&2 are finished and can be moved in at anytime while DNA3 Condos will not be ready until 2013.
When purchasing a resale condo unit, such as DNA1 or DNA2 Condos, there are no surprises; what you see is what you get. You know exactly what you are getting into as you can physically visit the unit, see what finishes have been used, know how the management is running the building, etc. Generally speaking, items such as window coverings, light fixtures and built-ins are left behind by the sellers which are a bonus. Another positive aspect of buying resale is that a buyer is able to visit multiple units in different locations before making a decision to see which one best suits their needs. The down side of resale is that you are not the first owner of the unit and some prep work of the unit may be required before move in.
On the other hand, when purchasing a pre-construction condo unit, such as DNA3 Condos, you are essentially buying an idea and not a tangible item as the condo doesn’t physically exist yet. Instead of visiting the unit, you visit the sales center where you purchase off of a floor plan where you must visualize the space you are purchasing. The nice thing about buying pre-construction is that you are the first owner and everything is brand new. Like at DNA3 Condos, when color selection comes around, you can even pick the colors that you like best for your unit. Think custom made! By the time the builder has sold enough units to start construction and construction has been completed, it isn’t until years later that you are actually able to move in. If you are looking to move into a condo unit immediately or within a short time period, then resale is the way to go but if you are able to wait a few years and have a flexible timeline then pre-construction may just be what you are looking for, such as DNA3 Condos.
The next thing to consider is motive. What is your reason for buying a condo unit? Is it to reside in or to flip? When buying a resale condo unit, you can potentially move in immediately whereas if you buy pre-construction you must be patient and flexible as the original occupancy date will most likely fluctuate. If it’s an investment that you are looking for, and the price is right, then pre-construction may just earn you that extra cash you are looking for. When buying pre-construction, you buy at today’s market price with the anticipation of the future market price being significantly higher.
Finally one of the most important elements of buying a condo unit is the cost and if you can afford the financial obligation. In either situation, a down payment must be made. In resale, on average a 5% down payment is given as a deposit with the offer. Depending on what has been arranged with the bank, a further deposit is paid to the bank upon unit closing. This deposit amount can vary from 5% down to 100% down, in which case a mortgage would not be required. When you purchase a pre-construction unit however this flexibility is not allowed. The builder has strict deadlines when deposits must be made. Usually a deposit is made with the initial signing of the documents, another one upon closing and then a few others in between which usually totals about 25% down.
A condo can be a great investment and a great place to live whether you purchase resale or pre-construction. Choosing which route to take depends mostly on your urgency to move but also on your financial situation and your reason for buying. In either case take the time to determine which route makes the most sense for you.
Click on DNA Condos for more information!
When purchasing a resale condo unit, such as DNA1 or DNA2 Condos, there are no surprises; what you see is what you get. You know exactly what you are getting into as you can physically visit the unit, see what finishes have been used, know how the management is running the building, etc. Generally speaking, items such as window coverings, light fixtures and built-ins are left behind by the sellers which are a bonus. Another positive aspect of buying resale is that a buyer is able to visit multiple units in different locations before making a decision to see which one best suits their needs. The down side of resale is that you are not the first owner of the unit and some prep work of the unit may be required before move in.
On the other hand, when purchasing a pre-construction condo unit, such as DNA3 Condos, you are essentially buying an idea and not a tangible item as the condo doesn’t physically exist yet. Instead of visiting the unit, you visit the sales center where you purchase off of a floor plan where you must visualize the space you are purchasing. The nice thing about buying pre-construction is that you are the first owner and everything is brand new. Like at DNA3 Condos, when color selection comes around, you can even pick the colors that you like best for your unit. Think custom made! By the time the builder has sold enough units to start construction and construction has been completed, it isn’t until years later that you are actually able to move in. If you are looking to move into a condo unit immediately or within a short time period, then resale is the way to go but if you are able to wait a few years and have a flexible timeline then pre-construction may just be what you are looking for, such as DNA3 Condos.
The next thing to consider is motive. What is your reason for buying a condo unit? Is it to reside in or to flip? When buying a resale condo unit, you can potentially move in immediately whereas if you buy pre-construction you must be patient and flexible as the original occupancy date will most likely fluctuate. If it’s an investment that you are looking for, and the price is right, then pre-construction may just earn you that extra cash you are looking for. When buying pre-construction, you buy at today’s market price with the anticipation of the future market price being significantly higher.
Finally one of the most important elements of buying a condo unit is the cost and if you can afford the financial obligation. In either situation, a down payment must be made. In resale, on average a 5% down payment is given as a deposit with the offer. Depending on what has been arranged with the bank, a further deposit is paid to the bank upon unit closing. This deposit amount can vary from 5% down to 100% down, in which case a mortgage would not be required. When you purchase a pre-construction unit however this flexibility is not allowed. The builder has strict deadlines when deposits must be made. Usually a deposit is made with the initial signing of the documents, another one upon closing and then a few others in between which usually totals about 25% down.
A condo can be a great investment and a great place to live whether you purchase resale or pre-construction. Choosing which route to take depends mostly on your urgency to move but also on your financial situation and your reason for buying. In either case take the time to determine which route makes the most sense for you.
Click on DNA Condos for more information!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
World of Condos Interview
The Condo Chicks are happy to share their recent TV interview regarding all about condos!
Click on Toronto Condos and enjoy!
Click on Toronto Condos and enjoy!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Units Available at DNA Condos
Currently there are a few units for sale in King West's renowned DNA Condos. They are as follows:
1. Two story one bedroom unit with parking listed for under $320 000
2. A one bedroom plus den unit with a locker but no parking listed for under $335 000
3. A two bedroom loft with two washrooms with both parking and locker listed for under $420 000
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For a full list of available units for sale, contact us at DNA Condos.
1. Two story one bedroom unit with parking listed for under $320 000
2. A one bedroom plus den unit with a locker but no parking listed for under $335 000
3. A two bedroom loft with two washrooms with both parking and locker listed for under $420 000
For a full list of available units for sale, contact us at DNA Condos.
June Market Update
The GTA saw 10,230 sales in June, up 21% from last June making it the 3rd best June on record. This is quite the turnaround from the first half of 2011 - down by 4.5% compared to the first half of 2010.
Average prices for June was $476,371, up by about 9.5% from June 2010 and up by about 8% from the average selling price for the first half of the year at $467,169.
Listing supply is down this year which is why we are seeing the average price increase. Buyer demand has pushed this price up in the second quarter of the year.
* Toronto Real Estate Board, New Release, July, 2011.
Average prices for June was $476,371, up by about 9.5% from June 2010 and up by about 8% from the average selling price for the first half of the year at $467,169.
Listing supply is down this year which is why we are seeing the average price increase. Buyer demand has pushed this price up in the second quarter of the year.
* Toronto Real Estate Board, New Release, July, 2011.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Pets at DNA
It's becoming a new trend for pets to be allowed in Toronto condos. It wasn't too long ago, that there were restrictions on having pets in your condo. This was inevitably a hard decision for downsizers with pets! The Condo Chicks are happy to share that DNA condos is indeed a pet friendly condo!
For more info on selling or buying in these King West condo buildings, contact us at DNA CONDOS.
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For more info on selling or buying in these King West condo buildings, contact us at DNA CONDOS.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Builder of DNA Condos
For a lot of you that don't know, the builder of DNA Condos is Canderel Stoneridge. They were essentially the first builder to start development in King West with their first phase of DNA. After it's initial success, it was only natural for the builder to continue the DNA brand with it's second phase, and now selling it's third and final phase which is still in the pre construction phase.
Canderel Stoneridge has an excellent reputation for building good quality product. They simply put forth an effort to build their DNA condos with the highest quality finishes and features. It's this type of quality that maintains the high demand and resale values in these buildings.
For more information on buying or selling your DNA condo, click on DNA Condos for more information.
Canderel Stoneridge has an excellent reputation for building good quality product. They simply put forth an effort to build their DNA condos with the highest quality finishes and features. It's this type of quality that maintains the high demand and resale values in these buildings.
For more information on buying or selling your DNA condo, click on DNA Condos for more information.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
TV Interview: April 18, 2011
We are excited to share with all of you that we will be interviewed this Monday, April 18th, 2011 at 9pm on the TV show “In Tune with Real Estate.” From what we have been told, it will be on channels 10 and 63. We will be asked questions regarding the condo market as well as other elements that come into play when buying or selling a condo. Make sure you “tune in” to see what we have to say!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Top Ten Real Estate Deals
The Condo Chicks are happy to announce that they are the Toronto Representatives for Top Then Real Estate Deals. Check it out! http://www.toptenrealestatedeals.com/homes/top-ten-home-deals/on/toronto/
Click on DNA for more information on any of these deals!
Click on DNA for more information on any of these deals!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Last chance to buy a unit at DNA3
Here’s what is available:
1 bedroom +den, 1 bathroom – 622 sq ft with a wrap around terrace1 bedroom + den, 1 bathroom – 564 sq ft with balcony (furnished unit)
2 bedrooms, 2bathrooms – 754 sq ft with wrap around balcony
2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms – 754 sq ft with terrace (BBQ hook up)
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Tips on Selling your DNA Condo
The current real estate market condition in Toronto is starting to pick up for sellers. The market early last year proved to be a strong seller's market with condos sitting on the market for only a few days before selling. The market today is definitely starting to pick up just in time for spring. In the meantime, it's more important than ever to put the extra effort in when selling your Toronto Condo.
Here are a few tips when selling your condo in Toronto:
1. If the unit is vacant, staging can have a positive effect as it can help potential purchases visualize how space can be utilized.
2. If the unit is occupied it is extremely important to keep the space tidy. Surfaces should be clear, washrooms should be clean and dishes should not be in the sink.
3.It is to the sellers benefit to remove any paintings or objects with religious meaning. A simple religious object can limit potential buyers.
4. Be flexible with showings. If people can't get into see your unit, how can you expect it to sell?
5. If you are home when a showing is booked, step out of your home. Potential buyers will feel like they can't talk freely with their agent and will feel pressure to look quickly. You want showings to be a pleasant and comfortable experience.
6. Restrain pets. Even though Snoopy may be really friendly, a lot of people are scared of dogs.
A few little changes can make a huge difference when it comes to selling your home. A little more effort can set you apart from your competition during these market conditions.
Click on Dna Condos for more information!
Here are a few tips when selling your condo in Toronto:
1. If the unit is vacant, staging can have a positive effect as it can help potential purchases visualize how space can be utilized.
2. If the unit is occupied it is extremely important to keep the space tidy. Surfaces should be clear, washrooms should be clean and dishes should not be in the sink.
3.It is to the sellers benefit to remove any paintings or objects with religious meaning. A simple religious object can limit potential buyers.
4. Be flexible with showings. If people can't get into see your unit, how can you expect it to sell?
5. If you are home when a showing is booked, step out of your home. Potential buyers will feel like they can't talk freely with their agent and will feel pressure to look quickly. You want showings to be a pleasant and comfortable experience.
6. Restrain pets. Even though Snoopy may be really friendly, a lot of people are scared of dogs.
A few little changes can make a huge difference when it comes to selling your home. A little more effort can set you apart from your competition during these market conditions.
Click on Dna Condos for more information!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
New Listing at Electra Lofts Located Beside DNA Condos
The Condo Chicks are listing a beautiful unit located in the heart of King West, located beside DNA Condos. With outstanding finishes and it’s boutique feel, this condo is a must see! Some more information:Originally built as 1+ Den, entire second floor is a master suite, with walk-in closet.
Penthouse suite, south facing, view of lake.
Private rooftop terrace.
Main floor balcony.
1.5 bathrooms.
Large pantry closet and in-unit storage.
TTC at door step. Easy access to Liberty Village and Ossington / Queen West shops & Restaurants.
Locker storage included.
Parking Space included.
Brand new granite kitchen counters and sink. New carpeting on stairs.
Penthouse suite, south facing, view of lake.
Private rooftop terrace.
Main floor balcony.
1.5 bathrooms.
Large pantry closet and in-unit storage.
TTC at door step. Easy access to Liberty Village and Ossington / Queen West shops & Restaurants.
Locker storage included.
Parking Space included.
Brand new granite kitchen counters and sink. New carpeting on stairs.
Click on DNA Condos for more information!
To Barbecue or Not to Barbecue – That is the Question!
One of the things that people overlook when purchasing a Toronto condo is whether their new condo will permit them to barbecue. With more and more people choosing the condo lifestyle in Toronto, it can sometimes be very difficult to find a condo building that will accommodate aspects of a freehold home into your condo such as barbecuing. This alone makes your condo search a more challenging and frustrating task.
Many buyers are under the impression that condo policies on barbecues can be taken lightly. After all you do own the unit so why shouldn’t you be allowed to barbecue freely on your balcony or terrace? Unless you want a lawsuit on your hands, abide by the condo corporations rules.According to The Ontario Fire Code, there are no restrictions on where barbecues can be located. The city of Toronto does allow balcony cooking however your condo corporation may prohibit these actions. An interesting fact is that it is the transportation of the BBQ on the elevator and the storage of the propane tank that is illegal not the actual barbecuing. By law, charcoal and wood fires used for cooking are legal however it is the condo corporation that will prohibit barbecue usage. To date, there have been many legal battles concerning barbecues on condos balconies; therefore it is best to do your research and due diligence prior to purchasing a condo in Toronto if barbecuing is an important aspect of your condo lifestyle.
With builders now realizing the demand for barbecuing privileges, the installation of natural gas lines on balconies and terraces in Toronto is becoming more and more common. Such units can be found in the DNA Condos, including the newest of the buildings, DNA3. Where natural gas lines are not present, the majority of Toronto condo buildings are attempting to accommodate barbecue lovers with a rooftop terrace if they are prohibited on individual balconies.
When searching for a condo in Toronto, it is important to ask your Realtor to only show you units where barbecuing on balconies is permitted. Once you’ve chosen the condo you would like to reside in and you’ve decided to put in an offer, make sure that your Realtor makes the offer conditional on your lawyer’s review of the status certificate. A portion of this document deals specifically with the barbecue rules and regulations of the condo building.
If you are interested in knowing which condo buildings in Toronto will permit you to barbecue on your balcony, or if you have a particular building in mind but are not sure about whether barbecuing is permitted, please feel free to click on DNA Condos for more information.
Friday, February 11, 2011
DNA3 Lofts
Incredible lofts have been released at DNA3 Condos. These two storey units boast 18 feet ceilings with floor to glass windows. With outstanding finishes and in what is anticipated to be an award winning building, these few units will not last. Don't miss out!
Click on DNA Condos for more information.
Click on DNA Condos for more information.
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