April 2010

The Bank of Canada announced today that it will hold its rate at 1/2 percent. Banks therefore are expected to keep their prime rates at 2.25%.

The Bank of Canada says that the global recovery is proceeding stronger than projected. This fact is recognized to be largely due to ongoing stimulus packages that are expected to end later this year. Despite the progress to recovery, they mention the durability of the recovery over the long term is uncertain.  

The Bank of Canada mentions our domestic demand in Canada is good which has fueled our recovery here. While they have positive growth on the books, the removal of the stimulus packages, the near parity of the Canadian dollar to the US and the absolute low level of US demand are quoted as severe drags on our…

$304,900 - Off the market... 

Immaculate townhouse in Evergreen, steps from Fishcreek Park and all amenities including shopping and public transportation - unit backs onto the peaceful, treed green space. This lovely home has 2 large bedrooms, both with ensuite and walk-in closet. The kitchen is very roomy with maple cabinets, black appliances, pantry and an ample size nook. Off the kitchen is a half bath and laundry. The living room has 17 ft. ceilings and offers lots of natural light and direct access to your deck. In the summer enjoy relaxing on your deck surrounded by trees. The basement is fully developed and includes a recreation room which could be the perfect spot for an in-home office or a second family room. Parking is great with a drywalled

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Mortgage fraud may not be the most serious crime in the grand scheme of things, but it's not something the government should be helping. But that's exactly what real estate professionals say is a likely result of the new mortgage rules being put into place on April 19.

"There's going to be a dramatic increase in mortgage fraud again," says Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investing Network, a Calgary-based association of investors who collectively own more than $3 billion in property. "You watch this thing start to take off."

The reason? It's virtually impossible for investors to buy a third rental property without putting 20% down because the new Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. rules use a 50% add-back policy instead of an 80% offset for rental…

One of the best ways to survive dreary March weather, is to plan a garden. If you start now, you'll have plenty of time to design it just the way you want it, and much of the work can be completed in stages.

Just like with any project, if you lay a solid foundation, you eliminate problems along the way. The following information will guide you through the process of creating your ideal garden, from start to finish:

1. Design: Just like you shouldn't build a house without plans, you shouldn't build a garden without some sort of design in place. Before that shovel pierces the earth, you need to know where your going to dig, and what the shape of the garden will be.

While you're creating your design, look for opportunities, such as, open spaces that could…

Statistics released by the Calgary Real Estate Board indicates that the Calgary housing market enjoyed a healthy boost in March of 2010 as homebuyers anticipate an earlier than expected rise in interest rates..

Sales of single family homes in Calgary have increased by a 29 per cent over the same time a year ago in March. Condominium transactions have been outpacing single family homes with an increase of 37 per cent compared to twelve months ago in the Calgary real estate market.

Diane Scott, president of the Calgary Real Estate Board has said that - “The spring market has come early to Calgary. Improved economic conditions, better employment prospects, and an earlier than expected rise in mortgage rates are all contributing to this early boost in sales…