July 2023 Newsletter

Top 6 Places to Retire in Ontario

If you’re interested in maximizing your retirement nest egg while minimizing your stress levels, small town living might just be for you. Click on the link below to read my latest blog article giving you my top picks outside the GTA.

Do you belong to a group that invites speakers to present, either virtually or in person? We provide ready-made seminars on a variety of topics related to real estate - all with absolutely no cost, obligation or sales pitch. 

Talks can be tailored to the interests and time requirements of the group, can include interesting visual aids, follow up workbooks, and special exclusive offers. 

If your group needs a fun, interactive and informative speaker, why not reach out to Sharon at 416-460-5636 or sharonparenteau@kw.com to discuss your group’s needs. 

A review from A.H:
"Don't miss an opportunity to attend one of Sharon's seminars. You will definitely learn something of value.
Sharon has been there, done that and is willing to share with you all her knowledge for an easy transition. Her talks are humorous and interactive."
 

Client Case Study #1 Selling Condo Townhouse and Leasing

When our lovely client contacted the SMART Realty Solutions team, they were ready for a big change. Change of scenery, change of situation, and change of lifestyle. They wanted maximum financial freedom and the fewest responsibilities possible. The custom solution we helped them to create was to sell their lovely suburban townhouse and to lease a midtown condo. 

The sale of their townhouse began with consultations with our vetted contractor and professional stager. Both made recommendations about improvements that would help the Seller achieve the maximum sale price in the shortest time possible. We provided step-by-step guidance, helping the client to prioritize and prepare their property. After repairs, painting and packing were completed, it was time for our professional staging company to come transform this property into the “Wow!” we knew it could be. Professional photography, 3D walkthrough, and floor plans were the building blocks of an aggressive marketing campaign that resulted in more than 55 agent showings, 30 open house visitors, and a total of 13 offers. The winning bid was $119,000 over asking. Needless to say, the client was absolutely thrilled with the outcome.

While much of this was happening, we toured more than a dozen properties for lease in the client’s preferred neighbourhoods. There was a surprising variety of offerings: from century-old, character-filled spacious garden units, to sparkling high-rise modern skyscrapers with all the bells and whistles. Of keen importance to our client was walkability. Eventually we found the perfect new place to call home: a spectacular two-bedroom condo with breathtaking views from two balconies. The SMART Realty team coordinated all aspects of the application process, including liaising with the listing agent and landlord to ensure a smooth transition for all involved. It was such a privilege to help our client achieve their goal of being free from worry about finances or maintenance, to finally enjoy the retirement lifestyle they deserve!

Client Case Study #2 - Sell Spacious Thornhill Condo and Move West!

With retirement in the offing, our lovely clients had a singular goal: move closer to their adorable
(and so far, only) grandchild who was located about two hours too far away. After mapping out a handful of possible locations, we got to work on preparing their beautiful condo to hit the market. 
These clients, like so many we deal with, asked whether they should sell first or buy first. We recommended they be further down the path to buying before listing for sale. We needed to be sure which towns, what kinds of properties, and what budget would meet their retirement goals. 

After some enjoyable and informative road trips, they got the answers they needed to feel secure in making an offer on a dreamy next home. This stunning renovated condo bungalow far exceeded their expectations, and was secured at a price that still left them a retirement nest egg.

With the peace of mind of knowing where they were heading, our lovely clients finished preparations to ready their condo for sale. Having already downsized once, these clients knew all about the importance of presenting their property in the best possible light - especially when there were two other condos for sale in the same building! After decluttering, some paint touch ups and minor repairs, our professional stagers ensured every aspect of this condo would have maximum appeal. The team work paid off handsomely, with an over-asking sale in a bidding war that was created through diligent follow up with showing agents, two staffed open houses, and extensive online advertising. They were on the market for a little over two weeks. What about the “competition” units for sale? Well, one of them eventually sold weeks later, and the other listing was terminated. The moral of the story is to create solutions for our sellers that bring them the most peace of mind while achieving their overall life goals.