I hope everyone’s enjoyed the beautiful month we just had! Some amazing sunny days, and perfect temperatures….even the Redblacks won a game!
So it’s business as usual for Ottawa’s residential real estate markets over the past month. Here’s a quick breakdown:
The average sale price of residential properties, including condominiums, sold in September in the Ottawa area was $356,915, an increase of three per cent over September 2013. The average sale price for a condominium-class property was $254,036, a decrease of 1.2 per cent over September 2013.
Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,133 residential properties in September through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® system, compared with 1,118 in September 2013, an increase of 1.3 per cent. The five-year average for September sales is 1,103.
In case you didn’t already know, Ottawa has the most predictable and stable real estate market in Canada by far (compared to other major cities). Which of course, makes for predictable investing. If you are interested in learning more about investments in Ottawa, contact me to find out your best options.
And since winter is around the corner, let’s embrace it and be ready to battle the cold. Here’s a list of things you can do to winterize your home:
1. Furnace Inspection: call an HVAC professional for an inspection and cleaning
2. Get the fireplace ready: if you have a fireplace, clean it out, buy firewood, etc
3. Check the exterior, doors, and windows: Seal cracks with weatherstripping, caulking, etc. Plastic shields over window wells.
4. Inspect roof, gutters & downspouts: Clean gutters, install leaf guards, replace worn roof shingles (add extra insulation in your attic if needed!)
5. Check foundations. Seal up entry points, seal foundation cracks, rake away debris…
6. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Or check your existing ones.
7. Prevent plumbing freezes: turn off exterior faucets and shutoffs. Insulate exterior pipes. Shut off AC.
8. Prepare landscaping & outdoor surfaces.
9. Get out your shovels, ice-picks, salt, etc: Everything’s going to freeze, so be ready!
10. Get your skates and skis ready. Embrace the winter and all it has to offer!!
Winter is coming; you’ve been warned. Now get outside and enjoy the cool autumn colours!
CHRIS STEEVES
Sales Representative.
Keller Williams Ottawa Realty.Independently Owned & Operated
