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Stories of impact: this month’s story is about my clients A+M.

Through my real estate journey I have had the opportunity to work with and help some incredible clients. I wanted to share the success story of my clients A+M. A+M were originally living in Smithville, They had come to me wanting to sell their home and purchase in the Welland/Fonthill area. The reason being was they needed to be closer to family and wanted to start a family of their own. Buying and selling a home at the same time can be a stressful process. Many homeowners are not sure whether to buy or sell first so let’s get into it. Originally our plan was to view homes of interest that fit their criteria - they offered on a number of properties but included a “sale of property” condition - this condition was to ensure they were protected and had the necessary time to sell their property prior to firming up on their new property.

They ended up losing out on their offers due to this sale of property condition, so we had to put a plan in place that would ensure they weren’t continuing to miss out on their desired new home. By this time the busy Spring market was upon us and inventory was flooding in. We had decided to put their home up on the market which had sold within a very short time period of 10 days. Something that is very important was to ensure the closing date was 60+ days out, this would allow them to have 2+ months of searching for their dream property without worrying about their home selling. It would also allow them to come in with a “cleaner offer” (less conditions). They ended up purchasing their dream property in Fonthill and trusted the process the entire way! I am so happy to have them in Fonthill & to make things even better they just welcomed a sweet baby boy into their family. If you are reading this and considering selling your home and starting a new chapter, let’s connect!

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Pelham Summer Chill

Discover all the ways to “Chill” in Pelham every Thursday in Peace Park in downtown Fonthill. June 13 to September 5, 2024.

Farmers market, supper market and live entertainment!  Discover all that Pelham has to offer!

Every Thursday night from June - September, the Summer Chill Series takes place in Peace Park. Consisting of three main elements; the open-air Bandshell Concert, the Farmers Market and the Supper Market, the Summer Chill Series offers residents, visitors, friends and family a place to support local businesses, farmers and musicians in Downtown Fonthill each week. 

Visit: https://www.pelham.ca/en/recreation-and-leisure/summer-chill-series.aspx for more info.

3rd Annual Mountainview Lemonaid Day

SATURDAY JUNE 8TH 2024.

Mountainview LemonAID Day is a fun, family day that gives children and families the opportunity to set up their own stand to sell lemonade and donate all the proceeds to FACS Niagara to send kids to camp. Mountainview Building Group and other generous sponsors provide everything kids need to host their own LemonAID Day, every dollar raised supports sending vulnerable kids to camps this July and August!

https://facsniagarafoundation.org/mountainviewlemonaidday/ for more info!

I hope you are able to visit a stand!!

For the Love of Dogs

Saturday, June 15, 2024 , 10:00am-4:00pm @ Firemens Park - 2275 Dorchester Rd, Niagara Falls, ON Directions

Price: C$10.00 —Children 16 and Under Free

Description: Niagara Dog Rescue and the Niagara Crohn's and Colitis Chapter are excited to announce a thrilling collaboration set to take place at an epic location. This unique event aims to bring together pet lovers, trainers, rescues, and enthusiasts for an unforgettable experience. The event promises a variety of activities and offerings that cater to both humans and their furry companions. Attendees can expect to indulge in a diverse array of attractions, including:

  • Local vendors showcasing pet-related products and services

  • Canine massage demonstration

  • Holistic canine care education session

  • Meditative Reiki demonstration tailored for dogs

  • CPR demonstration for pet emergencies

  • "Dads & Dogs" special for Father's Day - sign up for a memorable photo opportunity with your furry friend

  • Well-behaved pooches are warmly welcomed to join the festivities

Visit Event Website

Event Contact: Crohn's and Colitis Canada - Shie Gorman - s.gorman@niagaradogrescue.com - 519-496-6703

Shaw Guild Garden Tour

Saturday, June 15, 2024 , 10:00am-3:00pm - Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Price - C$25.00 to C$35.00—Early Bird $25 until March 31

Description: The 18th Annual Shaw Guild Garden Tour will take place on June 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is a self-guided tour of 8 private homes is beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. This year we will feature several historical homes. Each garden will have a Master Gardner available to answer questions and give advice.

Visit Event Website

Event Contact:

Fleming Centre - 10-Year Anniversary Celebration

Fri, Jun 21 2024, 4 - 6pm

Hosted By: Play Lincoln

Address: 5020 Serena Dr., Beamsville

Cost: FREE

Join us to celebrate the Fleming Centre's 10-Year Anniversary!

  • Commemorative Celebration

  • Crafts in the Library

  • Family-friendly activities

  • Drop in pickleball on the arena floor 

  • Light refreshments

  • Submit a tile for our Community Fleming Centre memory mosaic (pick up a memory mosaic tile from June 21 - 30, pick up a tile at the Fleming Centre and submit a drawing of your favourite memore of the Fleming Centre to include in our community mosaic). 

Charles Daley Canada Day

Mon, Jul 1 2024, 1:30 - 10pm

Hosted By: PlayLincoln

Address: Charles Daley Park, 1969 North Service Rd., Jordan

Cost: FREE

A family friendly celebration including activities, entertainment, food vendors and an amazing fireworks show! RAIN or SHINE!

Family Activities 1:30 - 7 p.m.

Button making, face-painting, giant building blocks, Lincoln Fire Rescue, Lincoln Museum & Cultural Centre and much more!

  • 1:30 p.m. - Lincoln Concert Band

  • 3 p.m. - Opening Ceremonies

  • 3:30 p.m. - Mad Science Show

  • 4 p.m. - Beamsville Music Studio

  • 5:30 p.m. - Back in the Daze

  • 7 p.m. - The Doubts

  • 10 p.m. - Fireworks by Garden City Fireworks

SHUTTLE available between Town Hall to Charles Daley Park from 1 - 11 p.m. 

Holi Festival of Colour

Hindu in origin, the Holi Festival celebrates a sense of harmony and happiness and is observed all around the globe. Going into it’s THIRD year, this year Holi Festival of Colour will be taking place Saturday, June 22!

Did you hear Downtown St. Catharines Holi Festival of Colour was recognized as one of the Top 100 Events in Ontario earlier this year!

More information will be released soon… https://mydowntown.ca/holi/ for more info!

Pride in the Park 

When: JUNE 8 AT 12:00 PM

Where: MONTEBELLO PARK 

Address: 64 Ontario St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 5J5

Visit CAA Niagara Tent from 12 PM - 6 PM for some fun games and giveaways! 

An outdoor festival with 2SLGBTQ+ entertainment, live musical acts, drag performers, family friendly activities, food/merchandise vendors, a licensed area and more. Hosted by Pride Niagara.

Visit their page for more info: https://www.instagram.com/p/C2-1Raaxl_r/   & https://www.prideniagara.com/

Restaurant of the Month

Welcome to Black Sheep Coffee Roasters!

LOCATIONS:

  • 64 Niagara St, Welland ON.

  • Open Wednesday- Sunday 8am-4pm

  • 952 Foss rd. Fenwick, ON.- NOW OPEN

  • Open Wednesday- Saturday 8am-4pm

Lucas and Katie are the incredible owners of Black Sheep. Their focus has always been building community and bringing people together thorough serving quality coffee, tea and food.

Check them out if you haven’t already!

Community Spotlight

In honour of this years 3rd annual Lemonaid Day, this month’s community spotlight is FACS Niagara.

The Niagara Foundation for Family & Children’s Services works to raise funds and awareness in the community in order to support Family & Children’s Services Niagara (FACS Niagara) in their mission to protect, support and strengthen the lives of children, youth and families.

Visit their website at: https://facsniagarafoundation.org/about-us/ for more info.

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Stories of impact: this month’s story is about Stamford Estates Retirement Living.

Throughout my time in real estate I have grown to love and appreciate working with seniors. That being said I have worked hard to network and use the resources around me to better serve seniors. One of the ways I stay involved is connecting with the many living options seniors have in the Niagara Region. I have become very close with those at Stamford Estates Retirement Living and attend the many events they host for the residences. Set in the historic district of Stamford, Stamford Estates offers an active senior lifestyle. Live the good life with chef-prepared meals and housekeeping–services that help free up more time to socialize, attend events and pursue your interests. During my pop in’s at Stamford Estates, I have had the opportunity to meet many of the current residences. A 99 year old gentleman caught my attention and I asked him if he wanted to play a game of pool. It's safe to say we’ve become friends and whenever I have the opportunity to pop in I make sure we get our game of pool in.

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Tulip Experiences in Pelham:

Fenwick JP Niagara Tulip Experience

Sarah Grey Pick Farm - The SG Experience

  • Opening date April 20, 2024 - May 20th 2024
  • 1415 Balfour St, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 
  • Monday-Friday 6:30pm-8pm

Tasc Tulip Farm

  • Opening April 27, 2024 @1pm - May 19, 2024
  • Monday thru Friday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
  • Saturday & Sunday 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
  • 433 Sixteen Road, Ridgeville


The Fenwick Market 2024:

Where: 1135 Centre Street 1135 Centre Street, Fenwick, Ontario, Canada

When: May 25th-26th from 10am-4pm 

The Fenwick Market is a two day event held on a small family farm in Fenwick Ontario. May 25 + 26 from 10am – 4pm. Featuring 80+ local vendors, amazing food, live music and more.

For more information follow on Instagram @the.fenwick.market or check out their website www.thefenwickmarket.ca


The Handmade Market 2024: 

Shop 1,000S of one-of-a-kind handcrafted items the 12th edition of the Spring Handmade Market May 31 to June 1 and June 7-8 at 13th Street Winery in St. Catharines.

The Handmade Market features 200 Canadian makers and artists over two weekends! Tickets must be pre-purchased online in advance.

Get full market details at www.handmademarket.ca


Monster Trucks All Out:

The Monster Trucks All Out tour is making its Niagara debut in Downtown St. Catharines at the Meridian Centre with an unforgettable evening of lights, music, and monster truck mayhem the whole family will love.

Get ready to witness the jaw-dropping stunts of iconic Canadian Monster Trucks as they battle it out in a non-stop, action-packed competition when the Monster Trucks All Out Tour unveils its spectacular Northern Lights Party. The lineup includes the untamable BUCKING BRONCO, the big bad CANADIAN CRUSHER, the high-flying OUT FOXED, and many more!

Tickets for this adrenaline-fueled event range from $30 to $75 plus fees. But wait, there’s more! Fans can also purchase two exciting event add-ons: one that allows your little racer to meet the drivers and trucks, and another that lets them take a spin in a real-life monster truck!

May 11, 2024, at 3:15 p.m.

Address: 1 David S. Howes Way, St. Catharines, ON L2R 0B3 


Lincoln Garden Club & Horticultural Society

 Lincoln Garden Club annual plant sale. Choose from a wide selection of sun and shade plants, annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables & more. Rock bottom prices on bedding plants. One day sale only! Proceeds support Lincoln community beautification projects, scholarships & more.

When: Saturday, May 11, 2024 , 8:30am-2:30pm

Location: Vineland Innovation Centre Barn - 3310 South Service Rd. Vineland Station, ON

Price: Free


Community Spotlight

This month’s community spotlight is Ronald McDonald House Charities.

I have had the opportunity to tour this incredible organization back in 2022 and it changed my whole perspective. Ronald McDonald House Charities® South Central Ontario (RMHC®SCO) is part of a network of 15 Ronald McDonald Houses across Canada. RMHC provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare.


Restaurant of the Month 

Welcome to Font Coffee Bar, a staple here in Fonthill.

The owners, mother & daughter duo, Kat and Tammy have created a café that makes you feel warm and welcome from the moment you walk in. Font is family and it’’s great to see the impact they have made in the community. Check them out if you haven’t already!

Address: 160 Hwy 20 W Unit 4-6, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E5

They also opened up a 2nd location in St. Davids, called The Junction located at 1397 York Rd, St. Davids, ON L0S 1P0. Be sure to check out both locations and let me know what you think!



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Here’s what has happened in the last month in real estate.

Residential home sales activity recorded through the MLS® for the Niagara Association of REALTORS® (NAR) totaled 602 units in April 2024, compared to 560 units in April 2023. In April, the Niagara Association of REALTORS® listed 1396 residential properties compared to 991 in April 2023. The average days it took to sell a home in April 2024 was 40 days, a 29% increase from April 2023.

The Niagara Market continues the upward surge as the HPI Benchmark jumps to 644,700 from 633,400 last month. The Days on market continues going down as we dropped to 40 Days from 43 in March. The listings have also continued to climb with 1396 in April up from 1167 in March. If interest rates start to decrease it could create pressure on the Niagara Market. As always Buyers and Sellers really need to navigate the real estate market with a local REALTOR® to gain the knowledge and insight of this market, that continues to see variations within its 12 municipalities.

NOTE: The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is June 5, 2024. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR on July 24, 2024



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New property listed in 772 - Broadway, Welland

I have listed a new property at 22 Denistoun Street in Welland. See details here

Welcome home to 22 Denistoun St. A perfect opportunity for first time buyers and families. This 2-storey, 1,350+ Sqft home nestled in a convenient Welland central location is awaiting your arrival and personal touches. The front foyer leads you upstairs to three good sized bedrooms and a 4-piece bathroom completes the upper level. Heading back downstairs you will find a spacious living room, dining room and kitchen, plenty of space to host friends and family. Laundry is conveniently located on the main floor. Enjoy the benefits of having an additional living room off the kitchen which leads you to your fully fenced, no maintenance backyard with a covered deck - a great space to entertain and host summer BBQ's. Within walking distance or just a short drive away is shopping, schools, parks, trails, Welland Tennis Club, Merritt Island, Concerts on the Welland Canal, Welland River, Green space, Niagara College, 5minutes to Hwy 406, which will take you directly to the QEW within minutes. The partially finished basement has a two-piece bathroom and offers plenty of storage.

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I met D&D my very first week in real estate and we have been friends ever since.

D&D were looking to downsize into a condominium bungalow, as they were looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle so they could have more time to do the things they love - travel, enjoy what Niagara has to offer, garden, visit family, and of course, go for convertible rides.

Now that the warm weather is upon us, we are both looking forward to continuing our convertible car rides throughout the Region.

It’s the relationships I get to build with local Niagara Residents that makes me love what I do every single day. I’m not just your average realtor, i’m here to make an impact in the community and connect with people just like you long before, during and even after a transaction is complete.

I’d love to hear if you’re a car lover, what kind of car do you have wrapped up in the garage waiting to be taken out this Spring?

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Community News & Events

St. Catharines Farmers Market

Check out the St. Catharines Farmers Market every Saturday from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors each week offering the best that Niagara makes, bakes and grows.

Address: 91 King St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 3H6


Earth Week April

The Community Eco-Expo will feature local environmental organizations. The community eco-expo provides residents the opportunity to learn about local environmental organizations and the importance of Earth Week initiatives.

  • Date: Saturday, April 20, 2024
  • Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
  • Where: Meridian Community Centre - 100 Meridian Way
  • Rotary Club of Fonthill will be hosting a Pelham Tree Planting Initiative for Earth Day!


Meadow Flowers Paint Night

Friday, April 19th 7-9 pm. Bring a friend! Paint with acrylics on a pre-sketched canvas. All materials are included to create your own masterpiece! No experience is needed. Follow along with Bev with easy step-by-step instructions live in the classroom at the Meridian Community Centre.

If you experience any difficulty registering online you may also make payment with a credit card by pre-arranged phone call at 289-990-8130 or E-transfer at bevsneath@yahoo.ca


The Keg Wines of Niagara

INFO:

  • Thursday April 19th - 6pm Dinner with wine pairing, The Madhatters will be performing at 8pm
  • Price - $100 per person for dinner with wine pairing.
  • Where: The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - 6700 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls.

Reservations can be made at fallsviewrestaurants.com or at 905-374-5170. Guests can just make a reservation and order off the menu if they wish. 


Volunteer Spotlight

This month’s Volunteer Spotlight is Community Support Services Niagara.

Happy in my Home, Community Support Services of Niagara is a volunteer based, client-driven community support service to help seniors and adults with disabilities live independently in their own homes.

I have been a volunteer with the friendly visiting program since 2023 and have been matched with the most wonderful person. I’m lucky to be able to support this incredible volunteer based program here in Niagara.


Restaurant of the Month

Welcome to Next Kitchen and Bar located at 200 HWY 20 EAST #6.

Fonthill’s new hot spot for All You Can Eat Tapas every Thursday, Taco Tuesday’s, Brunch & Chill Sunday’s & Kids Eat Free on Monday’s.

They offer live music, a great atmosphere and incredibly delicious food and drinks. Be sure to add it to your list of places to try, you won’t be disappointed.

MY GO TO MENU ITEM: The Dirty Bird Chicken Sandwich.

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Here’s what has happened in the last month in real estate.

Let's talk about what we saw in the real estate market over the last month.

In March, the Niagara Association of REALTORS® listed 1167 residential properties compared to 1046 in March 2023. The average days it took to sell a home in March 2024 was 43 days, a 4.9% increase from March 2023. March was a strong month, with increases complimenting the upward trend we are seeing in the market over the last few months. With the HPI benchmark price at $633,400, an increase of over 2% over last month, which is a positive sign for the market in Niagara; buyers are starting to be more aggressive as the time on the market has been reduced to 43 days from 54 days in January.

BUYERS: There's been a significant rise in activity and multiple offers, particularly in the lower price brackets. It's highly advisable to get pre-approved and consult with a local real estate agent who can provide valuable guidance throughout the buying process.

SELLERS: Price, Preparation and Marketing are the three most crucial steps for a smooth and seamless sale. With spring in full swing, stable interest rates, plus the potential for rate decreases in the near future, there are ample opportunities in the market for both buyers and sellers alike.

While the market is trending in the right direction, it is important buyers and sellers contact a local Niagara REALTOR® to help them navigate this market.


Canada to allow 30-year amortization for first-time buyers' mortgages on new homes:

This week's standout mortgage development in Canada is the reintroduction of 30-year amortizations, set to launch on August 1st for first-time buyers purchasing newly constructed homes with default insurance.

Since 2012, insured mortgages have been confined to 25-year amortizations. This alteration comes amidst a period of historically low housing affordability.

Here's a succinct overview of this policy revival:

For first-time buyers making the minimum five percent down payment, extending from a 25- to a 30-year amortization could potentially qualify them for approximately five to 5.5 percent more home, holding all other factors constant. Alternatively, it might reduce the necessary income to qualify for a mortgage by over five percent. These estimations are based on a 4.99 percent mortgage rate and no additional debts.

According to Kevin Lee, CEO of the Canadian Home Builders' Association, this adjustment is anticipated to entice more buyers into the market, counteract high interest rates, and bolster prices, consequently spurring more construction. Increased construction aids in addressing the primary issue in housing: a scarcity of homes due to substantial immigration.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on this change? 

Check out the current listings available!

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New property listed in 772 - Broadway, Welland

I have listed a new property at 22 Denistoun Street in Welland. See details here

Welcome home to 22 Denistoun St. A perfect opportunity for first time buyers and families. This 2-storey, 1,350+ Sqft home nestled in a convenient Welland central location is awaiting your arrival and personal touches. The front foyer leads you upstairs to three good sized bedrooms and a 4-piece bathroom completes the upper level. Heading back downstairs you will find a spacious living room, dining room and kitchen, plenty of space to host friends and family. Laundry is conveniently located on the main floor. Enjoy the benefits of having an additional living room off the kitchen which leads you to your fully fenced, no maintenance backyard with a covered deck - a great space to entertain and host summer BBQ's. Within walking distance or just a short drive away is shopping, schools, parks, trails, Welland Tennis Club, Merritt Island, Concerts on the Welland Canal, Welland River, Green space, Niagara College, 5minutes to Hwy 406, which will take you directly to the QEW within minutes. The partially finished basement has a two-piece bathroom and offers plenty of storage.

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This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.