The real estate market has long been a cornerstone of wealth-building strategies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or considering your first property purchase, the question often arises: should you invest now or wait? To make an informed decision, it's crucial to consider the benefits of real estate investment and the current market conditions. Here's why investing in real estate can be a smart move.

1. Consistent Returns

Real estate stands out as an investment that offers a stable and often predictable source of income. Rental properties, for instance, generate consistent cash flow, which can act as a buffer against economic uncertainties. Over time, real estate tends to appreciate in value, making it an excellent long-term investment. Even in fluctuating markets, well-chosen properties often outpace inflation, providing both security and growth.

In addition to regular income from rentals, selling properties in a rising market can yield significant profits. For investors seeking reliability and tangible returns, real estate remains unmatched.

2. Security and Stability

Unlike other volatile investments, such as stocks or cryptocurrencies, real estate provides a level of security and stability that appeals to cautious investors. Owning property gives you control over a physical asset, reducing exposure to market swings and speculative risks.

The strength of the real estate market, especially in high-demand areas, reinforces its reputation as a stable investment. This stability makes it an attractive option for those looking to safeguard their wealth while benefiting from gradual appreciation.

3. Portfolio Diversification

Diversification is a fundamental principle of smart investing, and real estate is an excellent way to achieve it. By including properties in your investment portfolio, you reduce reliance on other asset classes like stocks or bonds. Real estate has a low correlation with these markets, which means its performance often moves independently of traditional investments.

This diversification can help mitigate financial risks, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. Moreover, real estate investments offer unique tax advantages, further enhancing their appeal as part of a well-rounded portfolio.

Should You Invest Now?

The decision to invest or wait depends on your financial goals, market trends, and risk tolerance. Current interest rates, housing demand, and local market conditions play a significant role in determining whether now is the right time to act.

Investing in real estate is more than just a financial decision—it's a step toward building long-term wealth and stability. With benefits like consistent returns, portfolio diversification, and security, real estate remains a reliable and rewarding investment choice.

If you're ready to invest, Unna Real Estate Group is here to guide you. Our team specializes in identifying opportunities that align with your objectives, ensuring you make confident and informed decisions. Whether you're looking to diversify your portfolio or secure consistent returns, we can help you navigate the market with ease.

We’re back at it again with a review of Market numbers for the month of December. Let’s have a look at the numbers.

Winter is here, and if you haven't already, you've got to have your home ready for the cold weather. Proper maintenance can save you time, money, and headaches during the winter season. At Unna Real Estate Group, we’re here to help with tips to keep your home in great shape. Here’s a simple checklist to get you started:

1. Inspect and Seal Drafts

Check for drafts around windows and doors. Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to keep your home warm and reduce energy bills.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clear leaves and debris from gutters to prevent ice dams, which can cause water damage to your roof and home.

3. Service Your Heating System

Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace or heating system to ensure it’s running efficiently. Don’t forget to replace air filters regularly.

4. Shut Off Exterior Water Valves

One critical step is shutting off water supply valves to the exterior of your home. This prevents frozen pipes, which can burst and cause significant damage.

Recently, we assisted a couple of clients in locating their water shut-off valves. Feel free to reach out if you need help finding yours—we’re happy to guide you.

5. Protect Outdoor Faucets

After shutting off the water supply, drain and cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers to protect them from freezing temperatures.

6. Check Your Roof and Attic

Inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles and ensure your attic is well-insulated. Proper insulation helps prevent heat loss and ice dams.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With heating systems running more frequently, it’s vital to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if needed.

8. Trim Overhanging Branches

Snow and ice can weigh down tree branches, causing them to break and potentially damage your home. Trim back any overhanging branches before winter storms hit.

Final Thoughts

Winter home maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Tackling these tasks now can save you from costly repairs later. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, Unna Real Estate Group is here to help.

Stay warm and enjoy a worry-free winter season!

2025 is here, and big changes are coming to the real estate market! Experts believe this year will bring lots of opportunities for people looking to make a move in the Real Estate Market. Here’s what you need to know:

Great News for Buyers

This year, buying a home will be easier, especially if it’s your first time. New programs are available to help first-time buyers. Plus, changes to mortgage rules mean qualifying for a home should become a little bit easier with amortization changes and insured cap changes. 

Lower Interest Rates

Interest rates are expected to continue to go down in 2025. This is excellent news because lower rates mean smaller monthly payments and more money to spend on your dream home. The lower rates are expected to bring some buyers to the market.

More Homes for Sale

Many Canadians will need to renew their mortgages this year, but some will have to pay higher rates. Because of this, more people might decide to sell their homes. This means there could be more homes on the market for buyers to choose from.

We are looking for a balanced market in which a good number of homes are available for sale for the number of home buyers currently looking.

Making the Most of 2025

If you’re considering buying or selling a home, 2025 is a great time to do it. There are new rules and programs to help buyers, and more homes might be available. Working together with your preferred realtor to create a plan can make the process easier and help you find the best deals.

At Unna Real Estate Group, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your current one, or just exploring your options, we’re ready to guide you. Let’s make 2025 your year to achieve your real estate dreams!

Ask us how we have helped hundreds of clients upgrade to their new homes using our Uprise Method. 

Im sure you've seen the news all over the place. The bank of Canada has yet again reduced it's over night rate by 50 basis points down to 3.25%. This is the fifth consecutive cut by the Bank of Canada since June.

This rate cut comes at a time where many other changes are taking effect. Another significant update is the increase in the insured mortgage cap from $1 million to $1.25 million. This change allows more buyers in high-cost markets to qualify for insured mortgages. Additionally, 30-year amortization periods are making a comeback for certain mortgage products, offering buyers more manageable monthly payments, albeit with higher overall interest costs.

Furthermore, new stress test rules are being introduced to better align with current market conditions. Meaning you will no longer need to go through the stress test when renewing your mortgage. That will give homeowners flexibility to shop different lenders even when renewing their mortgages.

With these adjustments, more buyers may find themselves qualifying for mortgages they were previously excluded from.

As we head into December, these changes represent a pivotal moment for the real estate market in Ontario. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor, staying informed and working with knowledgeable professionals can make all the difference in navigating this evolving landscape. With professionalism and a commitment to your success, we at Unna Real Estate Group are here to help you seize opportunities and overcome challenges in this dynamic market.

What's going on in the Real Estate Market? We saw a 2.6% Increase in the average sales price overall and a 40.1% increase in sales activity in November 2024 compared to the same period last year.

Most people expected prices and sales to soar once we started seeing interest rate drops. Many sellers expected buyers to just fly back to the market once rates started to drop. That didn't necessarily happen. Over the month of November, we saw a huge increase of 30% in the number of active listings on the Market.

When you break it all down, you realize there are a lot of Sellers that came to the table and that necessarily didn't sell their properties. Many listings are sitting on the market, which presents a huge opportunity for Home Buyers.

Overall, I believe we are in a Healthy market as we have been able to experience a little bit of everything in today's market. Buyers have options and Sellers do to.

We at Unna Real Estate Group believe that every situation is different and every neighbourhood is different and should be analyzed as such. Feel free to reach out to us any time so we can help you analyze your situation.

We’re back at it again with a review of Market numbers for the month of November. Let’s have a look at the numbers.

Navigating Toronto's 180-Day Short-Term Rental Rule: What It Means for You

With soaring prices in the Toronto Real Estate market, governments are trying to find new ways to prevent investors from taking over. Over the last several years, investors have seen Short-Term Rentals as a great investment. What was initially meant to help homeowners gain some extra cash with sites such as AirBnB very quickly turned into a full-time business for some investors.

That brings us to Toronto's 180-Day Short-Term Rental Rule. The city’s 180-Day Short-Term Rental Rule is one of the key policies affecting property owners, investors, and renters. Here’s what you need to know about this rule and how it impacts you.

What is the 180-Day Short-Term Rental Rule?

Toronto’s 180-Day Short-Term Rental Rule was introduced as part of the city’s efforts to regulate STRs, such as those listed on Airbnb and other similar platforms. Under this rule:

• Primary residences only: Only properties that serve as a person’s primary residence can be used for short-term rentals.

• 180-day cap: Hosts can rent out their property for a maximum of 180 nights per year on a short-term basis (less than 28 consecutive days per rental).

• Registration required: All short-term rental hosts must register their property with the city and obtain a license.

These regulations aim to balance the growing demand for short-term accommodations with the city’s long-term housing needs.

Why Was This Rule Introduced?

Toronto's STR market has been booming in recent years. While platforms like Airbnb offer flexibility for homeowners and affordable options for travellers, they also contribute to reduced availability in the long-term rental market. By capping short-term rentals at 180 days, the city seeks to:

1. Protect long-term renters: Prevent the conversion of potential long-term rental units into full-time short-term rentals.

2. Maintain community balance: Address concerns about neighbourhood disruptions caused by constantly changing guests.

3. Ensure housing availability: Encourage property owners to prioritize long-term housing solutions such as conventional rental contracts.

How Can Unna Real Estate Group Help?

Whether you’re looking to invest, rent, or buy, understanding the implications of this rule is essential for making informed decisions.

Let’s Talk Real Estate!

Toronto’s neighborhoods are diverse, and finding the right one for your lifestyle takes some research. Here’s how to get a better sense of the community before you buy:

1. Attend School Board & City Council Meetings

• Gain insights on issues like school zoning and public amenities by attending these meetings. You’ll learn what’s happening locally and how it could impact your life.

1. Join Community Events

• Events like festivals, farmer’s markets, or planning meetings reflect the community vibe and priorities. It’s a great way to meet residents and see what matters to locals.

1. Attend Buyer Seminars

• Workshops in different neighborhoods give you a chance to meet real estate professionals and learn about the market, while also hearing other buyers’ questions.

1. Engage in Local Social Media

• Search for neighborhood-specific groups on Facebook, WhatsApp, or Reddit. You’ll see firsthand what locals say about the area’s pros and cons.

1. Explore On Foot

• Spend a day walking or biking through the area. Check it out at different times to get a feel for noise levels, traffic, and local amenities.

Of course contacting us, Unna Team we can help with tools and more information about the nieghbourhood interested to you. These steps can help you discover if a neighborhood fits your needs and lifestyle before you commit.

Here are five of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Toronto:

1. Yorkville – Known for luxury shopping, fine dining, and upscale living, Yorkville is a prestigious area that attracts affluent residents and visitors.

2. The Annex – A vibrant, historic neighborhood, popular with students, academics, and families due to its proximity to the University of Toronto and its charming streets.

3. Rosedale – One of Toronto’s oldest and wealthiest neighborhoods, Rosedale is famous for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and peaceful, upscale atmosphere.

4. King West – A trendy area popular with young professionals, King West offers a lively urban vibe with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightlife.

5. Leslieville – Known for its family-friendly community, artsy vibe, and proximity to parks, Leslieville is a favorite for young families and professionals alike.

These neighborhoods offer a mix of lifestyle options, from luxury living to trendy urban settings.

When you take out a mortgage to buy a home, you know how much your mortgage payment will be. However, that's not the only cost that comes with owning a home! As budgeting lies at the foundation of a solid financial plan, understanding the total cost of homeownership before purchasing a home is paramount.

One of our mortgage partners Lorena Sarnaglia from The Mortgage Coach, explains the total costs In addition to your mortgage, your monthly budget sheet may include:

▪️Property tax

▪️Home Insurance

▪️Utilities

▪️Condo fees

If you already own a home or are thinking of buying and need help understanding the total cost of owning, please give Unna Real Estate a call. We will provide you with a customized "Home Ownership Total Cost Analysis" that will allow you to prepare for the changes that may have to be made in order for you to succeed through homeownership.

This insightful blog is authored by our mortgage agent partner Lorena Sarnaglia, whose expertise in real estate ensures that readers are well-informed about the intricacies of homeownership costs.