MARKET UPDATE: JULY 2023

<p>Do It Yourself (DIY) projects can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enhance your living space while tapping into your creativity. However, not all DIY projects are created equal. Some can bring great satisfaction and value, while others might lead to frustration and potential disasters. We explore both the fantastic projects, as well as projects to avoid doing yourself.</p><h3>Good Idea: Painting Walls and Furniture</h3><p>Painting is one of the most popular and rewarding DIY projects for a reason. It allows you to transform the look and feel of a room or furniture with relatively little cost and effort. Ensure you prepare the surfaces properly and invest in quality paint for a professional finish. The sense of accomplishment when you step back and admire your freshly painted walls or refinished furniture is priceless.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Structural Changes</h3><p>Any project involving structural changes, such as removing walls, should be left to professionals. Altering the structural integrity of your house without the necessary expertise can lead to severe consequences, compromising the safety of your home.</p><h3>Good Idea: Installing Backsplashes or Accent Walls</h3><p>Adding a backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom is a great DIY project that can elevate the aesthetics of the space and protect the walls from moisture and stains. Also adding accent walls to shared living spaces can add chic style and character to your home. With a wide range of materials, styles, and easy-to-apply adhesive materials available, you can customize the look to suit your taste without needing professional help.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Electrical Work</h3><p>Working with electrical systems is dangerous and should only be undertaken by licensed electricians. Incorrect wiring or electrical installations can cause fires, electrical shocks, or even be fatal. Always hire a professional for electrical projects.</p><h3>Good Idea: Building Custom Shelves or Bookcases</h3><p>Creating custom shelves or bookcases allows you to optimize storage and display space while adding a personal touch to your home. Using basic tools and materials, you can design and build shelves that fit your specific needs and match your interior decor.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Plumbing Repairs</h3><p>Plumbing repairs often seem simple but can quickly escalate into major problems if not done correctly. Water damage can be costly to repair, so it’s best to hire a licensed plumber for any plumbing-related issues.</p><h3>Good Idea: Upcycling Furniture</h3><p>Breathing new life into old or worn-out furniture is not only environmentally friendly but also a fun and creative DIY project. With a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or reupholstering, you can give outdated pieces a modern and stylish makeover.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Roof Repairs</h3><p>Roofs are crucial to protecting your home from the elements. Climbing on the roof without proper safety gear and knowledge can result in accidents and leaks if not repaired correctly. Leave roof repairs to experienced professionals.</p><h3>Good Idea: Installing Smart Home Devices</h3><p>Adding smart home devices like programmable thermostats, smart lighting, or security cameras can enhance your home’s efficiency, security, and convenience. Many of these devices are designed for easy DIY installation, providing you with immediate benefits without the need for professional assistance.</p><h3>Bad Idea: Gas Appliance Installation</h3><p>Gas-related tasks, such as installing gas stoves or water heaters, require specialized expertise to avoid gas leaks and potential hazards. Always hire a licensed professional for any gas-related projects.</p><p>DIY projects around the house can be both rewarding and beneficial, but it’s essential to know your limits and understand when to call in the professionals. By choosing your DIY projects wisely, you can create a harmonious and inviting home while maintaining peace of mind. Happy DIY-ing!</p>

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF DIY

<p>The Spring market arrived in May as we saw an increase in sales, new listings &amp; average sale price compared to April. The average days on market has remained virtually the same at 30 days. Average sale price has risen 12% since January, when we saw a bottoming out of home prices in Niagara.</p><p><br></p><p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUHo-5MIASc</p><p><br></p><p>Currently, prices are resembling late summer/fall of last year. What’s holding prices right now is the lack of inventory, and more specifically a lack of quality &amp; properly priced homes. Canadian home buyers continue to show resilience &amp; strength in this market by making moves. But buyers are exercising caution in the home buying process, making sure a home is the perfect fit for them and priced properly to current market conditions.</p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/market-update-may-2023/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/MARKET-UPDATE-MAY-2023.jpg"></a></p><p><br></p><p>Out of town demand is still here, and it is not going anywhere! There is significant value in Niagara homes prices compared to our neighbours in the GTA, where their AVG sale price lies around $1.1M. Approximate 50% of home sales in Niagara have an out of town agent on the buying end.</p><p><br></p><p>We encourage buyers to act with haste to secure a property before competition intensifies.The Niagara housing market continues to hold value!</p><p><br></p><p>*For specific stats on your neighbourhood and city, reach out directly.</p>

MARKET UPDATE MAY 2023

<p>The big move to a new home can be an exciting, but challenging experience. The process of packing up your belongings, hiring movers, and settling into your new space requires careful planning and organization. Luckily, we have the essential tips to ensure a smooth move, covering everything from efficient packing techniques to selecting the right moving company, and finally, settling into your new home seamlessly.</p><h3>Packing</h3><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/tips-for-a-smooth-move-packing-movers-settling-in/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blog-BigMove-3-1024x683.jpg"></a></p><p>Packing is one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving. To streamline this process and ensure the safety of your belongings, consider the following tips:</p><p><br></p><p>a) Start Early: Begin packing well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Create a packing timeline and tackle one room at a time. Start with seasonal items, decorations, and items that have no immediate need in your day-to-day life.</p><p><br></p><p>b) Purge Unnecessary Items: Take this opportunity to declutter. Sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need or use. Some of your packing should start even before you list/sell your existing home during the decluttering process.</p><p><br></p><p>c) Use Proper Packing Materials: Invest in sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to protect fragile items. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for easy unpacking.</p><p><br></p><p>d) Pack Essentials Separately: Pack a separate box with essential items such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any necessary tools. This box should be easily accessible upon arrival at your new home.</p><h3>Movers</h3><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/tips-for-a-smooth-move-packing-movers-settling-in/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blog-BigMove-1-1024x576.jpg"></a></p><p>At some point, moving is a bigger job than a couple of friends, a case of beer, and pizza. If you decide to hire professional movers, careful consideration is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Follow these tips when selecting a moving company:</p><p><br></p><p>a) Research and Compare: Obtain multiple quotes from different moving companies and compare their services, rates, and customer reviews. Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation.</p><p><br></p><p>b) Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or real estate agents who have recently moved. Their firsthand experiences can help you find reliable and trustworthy movers.</p><p><br></p><p>c) Read the Fine Print: Review the moving company’s contract thoroughly, paying attention to details such as insurance coverage, additional charges, and liability policies.</p><p><br></p><p>d) Schedule in Advance: To secure your desired moving date, book your movers well in advance. Moving companies tend to be busier during peak seasons, so early planning is crucial.</p><p><br></p><h3>Settling In</h3><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/tips-for-a-smooth-move-packing-movers-settling-in/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blog-BigMove-2-1024x683.jpg"></a></p><p>Once you arrive at your new home, the process of settling in can be both exciting and overwhelming. Consider these tips to ease the transition:</p><p><br></p><p>a) Unpack Room by Room: Start unpacking one room at a time, focusing on essential areas like the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. This approach helps maintain a sense of order and reduces stress.</p><p><br></p><p>b) Create a Functional Layout: Plan the layout of each room based on your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as furniture placement, storage solutions, and the flow of traffic.</p><p><br></p><p>c) Update Your Address: Notify relevant parties about your change of address, including utility companies, banks, insurance providers, and the post office. Update your address on official documents and subscriptions.</p><p><br></p><p>d) Explore Your New Neighborhood: Get to know your new surroundings by exploring nearby amenities, such as grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and recreational areas. Introduce yourself to neighbors and join local community groups to foster a sense of belonging.</p><h3>Ready For The Big Move?</h3><p>Moving to a new home can be a smooth and enjoyable process with the right approach. By following these tips for efficient packing, selecting reliable movers, and settling into your new space, you can minimize stress and focus on creating a comfortable and welcoming environment in your new home. Remember, planning ahead, staying organized, and seeking assistance when needed are key to a successful move. Embrace this new chapter in your life with enthusiasm and enjoy the journey of making your new house a home!</p><p><br></p><p>Questions? <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/contact/">Contact us </a>to day to speak with a Portfolio team member.</p>

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH MOVE: PACKING, MOVERS & SETTLING IN

<p>Spring has sprung and it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors! Niagara offers more than waterfalls and wineries, and there’s loads of adventures awaiting in Niagara region’s hiking hotspots. From scenic strolling to intense hiking, we cover 5 of the best trails Niagara has to offer!</p><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>1. Bruce Trail, Across Niagara Region</strong></h3><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking1.jpg"></p><p>The oldest and longest trail in Canada! A must for avid hikers to knock off their bucket list. The trail is 900 km long from Queenston Heights Park to Tobermory along the Niagara Escarpment. </p><p>In Niagara, the trail begins near Niagara Falls along the Niagara River and continues to Grimsby. The Niagara section of the trail alone offers more than 130 km to explore, including the picturesque Decew Falls, the valleys of Short Hills, as well as nearby wineries such as <a href="https://henryofpelham.com/">Henry of Pelham</a> and <a href="https://13thstreetwinery.com/">13th Street Winery.</a></p><p>From day to multi-day trips, check out the <a href="https://brucetrail.org/bruce-trail-sections-and-maps/">Bruce Trail website</a> to plan your monumental Bruce Trail trek in Niagara.</p><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking1a.png"></p><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>2. Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, Lincoln</strong></h3><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking2-1024x524.jpg"></p><p>Niagara Falls isn’t the only waterfall in town!</p><p>Popular with locals, Balls Falls is a hike through history, off-the-beaten-path! Once a 19th century settlement, this trail runs along the edge of the Niagara Escarpment. </p><p>Take a walk back in time as you pass &amp; tour historical buildings like an operational mill, church, blacksmith shed, carriage house and more on the property originally owned by the Ball brothers.</p><p>Three trails to choose from; the Forest Frolic Trail, Switch Back Trail and the favoured Cataract Trail. A simple trail through the historical village along the Twenty-Mike creek, cascading over the upper and lower Balls Falls, a breathtaking sight to see!</p><p>Visit the <a href="https://npca.ca/parks-recreation/conservation-areas/balls-falls">website</a> for more information and directions.</p><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking2a.png"></p><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>3. Woodend Conservation Area, Niagara-on-the-Lake</strong></h3><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking3.jpg"></p><p>Another local favourite, if you’re looking for a short hike check out Woodend.</p><p>What was once thought to be a lookout point during the War of 1812, this is a unique section of the Escarpment to discover. Incredible views of Lake Ontario, vineyards and orchards. </p><p>Hike the area’s two short trails; the Hardwood and the Silurian Trial. That’ll take you on either side of the edge of the Escarpment. The iconic Bruce Trail and Trans Canada Trail also run through the area if you’re up for a longer journey.</p><p>You’ll also find the 32 km Wetland Trail that is part of Laura Secord’s Legacy Trail. </p><p>As this trail runs through <a href="https://ncteachingwinery.ca/">Niagara College’s Teaching Winery &amp; Brewery,</a> be sure to visit the award-winning destination!</p><p>Visit the park <a href="https://npca.ca/parks-recreation/conservation-areas/woodend">website</a> for more information and directions.</p><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking3a.png"></p><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>4. Niagara Glen, Niagara Falls</strong></h3><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking4-1024x502.jpg"></p><p>An adventure-seeker’s hike! Jaw-dropping scenery, million-year-old rock formations, marine fossils, and endangered plant and animal life—look no further than this hidden gem. </p><p>The designated nature reserve with 4 km of rugged trails located in the Niagara Gorge. Trails along the edge of the Niagara River, while getting close enough to feel the rush of the river and the swirling 4,200-year-old Niagara Whirlpool.</p><p>Home to one of Canada’s last pockets of Carolinian Forest. The turquoise waters of the river as well as astounding natural cliffs and boulders, make for awe-inspiring surroundings on one of the best hikes you’ll find in Niagara Falls!</p><p>Visits <a href="https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/niagara-glen-nature-centre">the website</a> for more information</p><p><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BlogHiking4a.png"></p>

4 BEST HIKING TRAILS IN NIAGARA

MARKET UPDATE APRIL 2023

<p>Selling a tenanted investment property in Ontario can be a profitable venture, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. To ensure a smooth and legal transaction, here are the steps you need to follow:</p><h3>1. Provide Written Notice to Your Tenants</h3><p>Before you sell your investment property, you must inform your tenants in writing of your intention to sell. This notice must include the date you plan to list the property for sale, the contact information for the real estate agent or lawyer handling the sale, and any other relevant details.</p><h3>2. Follow the Required Notice Period</h3><p>In Ontario, landlords must give tenants 24 hours’ notice before showing the property to potential buyers. However, if you plan to hold open houses or other events, you’ll need to give your tenants more notice. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 specifies the required notice periods, so be sure to review the act carefully before proceeding.</p><h3>3. Allow Tenants to Remain in the Property</h3><p>As the landlord, you are obligated to allow your tenants to remain in the property during the sale process. This means you must work around their schedule and ensure that the sales process does not disrupt their living situation.</p><h3>4. Disclose the Tenancy Agreement to Potential Buyers</h3><p>When listing your tenanted property for sale, be sure to disclose the terms of the tenancy agreement to potential buyers. This will help them understand the rights and responsibilities of the tenants and ensure they are fully informed before making an offer.</p><h3>5. Protect Tenant’s Rights Throughout the Sale Process</h3><p>It’s important to ensure that the tenant’s rights are protected throughout the sale process. This includes giving them reasonable notice of showings, respecting their privacy, and ensuring they are not unduly disturbed during the sale process.</p><h3>6. Provide Notice of Termination if Required</h3><p>If the new owner wishes to take possession of the property, you’ll need to provide the required notice period to the tenants as per the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This notice period can vary depending on the circumstances, so be sure to consult with a real estate lawyer or licensed agent for advice.</p><h3>7. Close the Sale and Transfer Ownership</h3><p>Once all conditions have been met and the sale is ready to close, the property ownership can be transferred to the buyer.</p><p>In summary, selling a tenanted investment property in Ontario requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above and consulting with legal professionals as needed, you can ensure a successful and legally-compliant sale.</p>

SELLING A TENANTED INVESTMENT PROPERTY IN ONTARIO

<p>So you own a big piece of land, and you want to maximize your return when it’s time to sell. Is it wise to sever the lot into plots of land for developers, or sell the property as is?</p><p>Severing your lot refers to the process of dividing a larger piece of land into smaller, separate lots. The decision to sever your lot before selling your home comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:</p><h3>PRO – Increased Value</h3><p>By dividing the land into smaller lots, you may be able to sell each lot for a higher price than if you sold the entire property as a single unit. As housing becomes scarce, adding more opportunities to increase inventory adds value on its own.</p><h3>CON – Cost</h3><p>Severing your lot can be expensive, as you need to hire a land surveyor, a lawyer, and other professionals to help with the process. Additionally, you may need to pay fees to the local government or municipality.</p><p>It’s also worth understanding that simply applying for a severance does not guarantee it will be approved. Investment into the venture could be a wash if no approvals are given.</p><h3>PRO – More Flexibility</h3><p>Severing your lot can give you more flexibility in terms of what you can do with the land. For example, you may be able to sell one lot and keep the other for personal use or sell both lots separately.</p><h3>CON – Time-Consuming</h3><p>The process of severing your lot can be time-consuming, with various requirements and regulations that must be followed. On average, a straightforward severance could take approximately 12 months. However, if any complications or variances arise, it could double the time.</p><h3>PRO – Potential for Additional Income</h3><p>If you decide to keep one of the lots and rent it out, you could generate additional income. Depending on zoning, a lot could be turned into a multi-family property or a semi-detached home, further adding value to your investment.</p><h3>CON – Risk</h3><p>There is a risk that severing your lot may NOT increase the value of the property or may even decrease it if the divided land is less desirable to potential buyers.</p><p>Reducing the size of your existing property will certainly have an effect, as well as the stigma some buyers may have to being neighbours to a construction site as soon as they move in.</p><p>Overall, severing your lot can be a good option if you’re looking to increase the value and flexibility of your property, but it’s essential to carefully consider the costs, risks, and complexities involved before proceeding.</p><p>It’s also recommended to seek the advice of professionals, such as a real estate agent, a lawyer, and a land surveyor, to help you make an informed decision.</p>

PROS & CONS OF SEVERANCE

<p>You’re ready to buy a house (or at least start thinking about it). The housing market can be an intimidating place for first-time homebuyers. But it doesn’t have to be! Here’s 10 of your most common questions answered!</p><p><br></p><h4>1) Who Qualifies As A First-Time Home Buyer In Ontario?</h4><p>You are considered a first-time home buyer if, in the four-year period, you did not occupy a home that you or your current spouse or common-law partner owned.</p><p><br></p><h4>2) How Much Do First-Time Home Buyers Have To Put Down In Ontario?</h4><p>When you purchase a home, you are expected to put down a down payment while your mortgage will cover the rest. The amount you are expected to put down depends on the price of the home you purchase:</p><p>$500,000 or less = 5% of the purchase price</p><p>$500,000 to $999,999 = 5% of the first $500,000 of the purchase price, then 10% for the portion of the purchase price above $500,000</p><p>$1 million or more = 20% of the purchase price</p><p><br></p><h4>3) What Benefits Do First-Time Home Buyers Get In Ontario?</h4><p>When buying your first home, there are more costs involved than you may expect.</p><p>Thankfully, first-time home buyers in Ontario have exclusive access to programs to help offset some of the costs. From Rebates to Tax Credits, there are a variety of initiatives available to support prospective home buyers on their journey to homeownership.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/">Download Our First-Time Buyers Benefit Guide</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/first-time-buyer-guide-banner-1024x512.jpg"></a></p><h4><br></h4><h4>4) What Do Banks Look For When Buying A House?</h4><p>Lenders assess income, current debts, and credit history to determine the borrower’s creditworthiness. A mortgage affordability estimate uses an estimate of other debt payments as a percentage of gross monthly income and of the down payment as a percentage of the purchase price.</p><p><br></p><h4>5) What Is The #1 Feature To Consider When Buying A Home?</h4><p>The location. Location is the one thing about a house you can never change no matter how much money you spend, so it’s absolutely critical that you confirm any property you buy is in a convenient spot. Remember, this is your first home, and most likely not your forever home. You may not get the double-car garage and sprawling greenspace with a pool in the first home you purchase, but getting your foot in the market is the first step towards the home of your dreams.</p><p><br></p><h4>6) How Long Does It Take To Find A Home?</h4><p>Once your financing is in place pre-approved for a mortgage you are satisfied with, the hunt can begin. The amount of time it takes to find your home can vary depending on market conditions and your personal needs. Typically, a home can be found in 30-45 days, but sometimes longer if inventory is low.</p><p>In a buyer’s market, however, things can move very quickly. Lots of homes available mean you can see more quicker. One busy weekend and you could be a homeowner by Monday!</p><p><br></p><h4>7) How Much Are Closing Costs in Ontario?</h4><p>Home closing costs typically amount to anywhere from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. Closing Costs Include: Home Inspection, Appraisal Fees, Lawyer Fees, Moving Costs and Condo Status Certificate Fees</p><p>Remember there are benefits and credits available to First-Time buyers that could assist in these costs.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/">Download Our First-Time Buyers Benefit Guide</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://sellsniagara.com/first-time-buyer/"><img src="https://sellsniagara.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/first-time-buyer-guide-banner-1024x512.jpg"></a></p><h4><br></h4><h4>8) What Are The Ongoing Costs Of Owning A Home?</h4><p>If you’re used to renting, many of the ongoing costs of homeownership might be new to you.</p><p>When you’re thinking about purchasing a home, try to estimate the ongoing costs like:</p><p>In addition to one-time setup costs, you’ll have to pay monthly utilities; electricity, gas, water, internet, and so on. Many of these costs are much higher than what you’d be used to paying as a renter.</p><p>Property taxes vary widely depending on where you live and the valuation of your home, but generally will be thousands of dollars rather than hundreds. You can usually find the property tax history of a home you’re looking at either directly in the listing, or by asking your REALTOR® to find out.</p><p>Maintenance and repair. You should budget between one to four percent of your home’s value for annual maintenance. It’s a wide range, but you can use the age of your home as a guide for which end of the scale you’ll be on.</p><p>Home insurance. If you had tenant insurance, you may be used to certain premiums, but insuring a whole house costs more. You can get a home insurance quote for your new house to give you an idea of the cost.</p><p><br></p><h4>9) Are There Any Problems With The House? Have There Been Problems In The Past?</h4><p>This is a big one. Sellers are required to disclose any KNOWN defects in the home that they’re aware of, but that protection isn’t perfect. Sometimes issues can exists without the seller even knowing (example, foundation cracks behind finished walls may not be easily seen).</p><p>Having your potential home inspected is extremely important, especially as a first-time buyer. It’s not a mandatory condition, but it’s encouraged for piece of mind and confidence with your purchase.</p><p>Professional home inspectors look for both visible and invisible issues throughout the house. Visible issues include problems like discoloration, mold, rotted wood, or cracks. Invisible issues like indoor air quality and radon gas leakage into the basement can only be detected with specialized equipment.</p><p><br></p><h4>10) How Much Do I Have To Pay a REALTOR® as a Homebuyer?</h4><p>Nothing!</p><p>In most cases, you do not have to pay your REALTOR® anything to help you purchase a home. Instead, the sellers typically pay their REALTOR® a fee, and then that listing agent pays the buyer’s REALTOR® for bringing the buyer and facilitating the transaction.</p><p>What’s important here is making sure you work with a REALTOR® that you trust for the biggest purchase of your life. Niagara has over 1500 licensed REALTORS® to choose from. It helps to ask friends and family members for referrals or advice, but also do your own due diligence and find the REALTOR® that shares your vision and values. For example, check out the <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/meet-the-team/">members of the Portfolio Realty Group</a>!</p>

10 BIGGEST QUESTIONS FROM FIRST-TIME BUYERS ANSWERED!

<p>St. Catharines is the largest city in Niagara, and the sixth largest urban area in Ontario. With over 130,000 residents, it’s no surprise the city is filled with several dynamic neighbourhoods.</p><p>But which areas are worth your attention and investment in 2023?</p><p>The entire Portfolio team put together our top 5 choices of neighbourhoods to watch in 2023.</p><h2>#1 – Western Hill</h2><p>Years ago there were several reports and excitement about reguler Go Train service coming to Niagara, and the St Catharines station is located in Western Hill. This caused a period of activity years ago.</p><p>Now, not so much.</p><p>But with the <a href="https://www.insauga.com/expect-huge-rise-in-go-train-service-as-region-renovates-st-catharines-niagara-falls-train-stations/">recent purchase of the VIA Rail stations in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines by Niagara Region</a>, that means by the end of next year, residents can expect a marked increase in GO Train service.</p><p>Coupled with its close proximity to Brock University and the Downtown Core, this makes Western Hill a cost-effective investment, especially for those desperate to break into the housing market.</p><h2>#2 – Merritton &amp; Secord Woods</h2><p>An affordable, family-oriented area that is already showing lots of development potential. Secord Woods especially seeing lots of infill and rededication of open land, including the <a href="https://phelpshomes.com/mc2-2-2/">Merritton Commons</a> and <a href="https://stkittsurbantowns.com/">St Kitts Urban Towns</a></p><p>The neighbourhood is swimming with R2 zoning, which opens up several possibilities to convert single family homes to multi-units. This allows young families and investors to create cashflow in their primary, or additional properties.</p><p>Current residents of Secord Woods &amp; Merritton have immeasurable pride in their community, and have long-standing roots in the area, some for decades or generations!</p><p>Spend the day in the area on Labour Day, and the comradery witnessed will prove this point!</p><h2>#3 – North End</h2><p>It may not be a community per se, but rather the large swaths of land north of the QEW. Home to the largest proportion of St. Catharines residents, It’s primarily suburban in nature, although development ranges from high-density to large upscale homes on the lakeshore.</p><p>This area is family-focused, first and foremost. Home to some of the best-rated schools in the city (Port Weller, is ranked #3 in the city). Nearby are several parks, waterfront trails, and community centres. And of course a local secret; Sunset Beach.</p><p>North End has been a hot spot for out-of-town buyers for years to settle down in. Lately, as outside buyers have slowed down, this leaves a window of opportunity to break into this hot spot.</p><h2>#4 – Downtown &amp; Fitzgerald</h2><p>The Fitz! If you know, you know.</p><p>The downtown and mid-town area has seen a resurgence in popularity over the last 10 years. At first due to it’s affordability, but as younger homeowners and families move in, the area has slowly transitioned into one of the trendiest and hippest areas to live.</p><p>Close proximity to the QEW allows for easy access for a daily commute. Also within walking distance to the Downtown Core, home to some of the finest dining spots in the city, the Meridian Centre, and the Performing Arts Centre.</p><p>Buyers looking to build sweat-equity in their home, purchasing a war-time property in this area and working as you live has been a popular starting point for first-time buyers.</p><h2>#5 – Port Dalhousie</h2><p>Of course, <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/contact-us/">the neighbourhood you can find our office!</a></p><p>Port Dalhousie in the summertime is the place to be in St Catharines. Incredible dining, shopping, community events, and easy access to the beach &amp; marina.</p><p>With the ongoing redevelopment of land, Port is seeing the resurgence it rightfully deserves. Thanks to the hard work of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PortDalhousieBWC/">Port Dalhousie Beautification and Works Committee</a> the local roots are deeper and stronger than ever. A tight-knit community that takes pride in their neighbourhood and is more than welcome to show it off.</p><p>Any areas we missed? <a href="https://sellsniagara.com/contact-us/">Feel free to let us know!</a></p>

FIVE ST CATHARINES NEIGHBOURHOODS YOU NEED TO WATCH IN 2023

Emily DeSantis has been an active part of the Niagara Real Estate community since 2015. Born and raised in St. Catharines, she resides in Port Dalhousie and juggles a few investment properties of her own. Emily has firsthand knowledge and experience with the growth and dynamics of the current housing market. She has helped many people around the Niagara Region with listings, first-time buying, downsizing and expanding investment portfolios. She is part of the 100% Club and worked as part of Niagara’s #1 Sales Team.

Emily’s passion for real estate and investment opportunity drives her to deliver a positive stress-free experience. Known for her determination and strong work ethic, Emily will help you reach your ultimate goal. Having Emily as your realtor gets you more than doing a private sale. She strives to ensure satisfaction and to make your sale or purchase go as smoothly as possible.

Emily loves the Niagara Region and she has seen how far it has come over the last decade. Surrounded by the Great Lakes, nature, wineries, markets and trails, she is excited by the tremendous amount of growth still to come. Niagara offers a relaxed alternative to the GTA hustle and bustle, with its small-town appeal and big city amenities.

An active member of the community, Emily participates in local charity events. She is well travelled and well versed in different cultures and lifestyles, having worked for WestJet Airlines for a decade. In her personal time, Emily enjoys cycling, soccer, yoga, kayaking and boxing, spending much of her time with family, friends and her dog.