Grand Bend Ontario Real Estate Info with Larry Broadley

Summer is Coming

2012-01-21T16:14:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not Summer is not far away, so now is the time to think cottages. There is lots of selection available this year and prices are good. Try www.grandbend4sale.com/listingdir.htm or for a rental try www.grandbend4sale.com/atthebeach.htm

Merry Christmas

2011-12-20T06:57:00.000-05:00

All the Best for a Great and Prosperous 2012

2011-11-03T16:24:00.002-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-26T10:41:00.000-04:00

Two Great Ranches to choose

2011-03-26T07:27:00.002-04:00

I have two great ranches to choose from one in Port Franks for $349,500 and one in Grand Bend for $499,000

This is Grand Bend Southcott Pines More info at www.grandbend4sale.com/Riverside.htm

Here is Port Franks

more info at www.grandbend4sale.com/simpsons.htm

NOW............. IS THE TIME TO BUY

2011-02-09T06:51:00.000-05:00

Reprinted from the London Free Press Feb 9, 2010
QMI Agency

The Canadian Real Estate Association has boosted its forecast for 2011 existing home sales after a stronger-than-expected hand-off from 2010.

CREA now expects sales via its Multiple Listing Service to hit 439,900 units, representing an annual decline of 1.6%. In 2012, national sales activity should rebound by about 3% to reach 453,000 homes, it said.
"Home buyers recognize that low mortgage interest rates represent a once in a lifetime opportunity. At the same time, they expect that rates will rise, so they're doing their homework in order to understand what it could mean in terms of higher mortgage payments down the road before they make an offer," said Georges Pahud, CREA president.
Average home prices are expected to rise by 1.3% to touch $343,000 in 2011 and $347,000 in 2012. Manitoba, currently considered a sellers’ market, could see bigger price increases, CREA said.
New, stiffer mortgage lending rules will also bring forward some sales into the first quarter, especially in the more expensive markets.
CREA expects the market will regain traction after dipping in the second quarter as the economic recovery, jobs, incomes and consumer confidence rebound.
"Even though mortgage interest rates are expected to rise later this year, they will still be within short reach of current levels and remain supportive for housing market activity. Strengthening economic fundamentals will keep the housing market in balance, which will keep home prices stable," said Gregory Klump, CREA chief economist.
A handful of Canada’s biggest banks have already begun raising residential mortgage rates. On Tuesday, RBC Royal Bank followed in the footsteps of TD Canada Trust and CIBC to hike their benchmark five-year fixed rate by a quarter of a point to 5.44%. Lower promotional rates are available.
Also on Tuesday, the Canada Mortgage Housing Corp. (CMHC) reported the number of new housing projects started in January edged slightly higher on an increase in rural development.
Housing starts totalled 170,400 units, up from 169,000 units in December, CMHC said. The figure was below economists’ forecasts for 174,000 starts in the month.
For the whole of 2010, the number of housing starts was 189,930 units with activity moderating towards the end of the year.
“Housing starts moved slightly higher in January because of an increase in rural starts,” said Bob Dugan, chief economist at CMHC’s Market Analysis Centre. “Single-detached and multiple starts showed a moderate decline.”
The number of condo projects started dropped by 1.5% to 82,900 units, while single-family homes declined by 2% to 64,000 units.
Rural starts were estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 23,500 units in January.
Activity was mixed across the country, with sizable declines reported in the Prairies and British Columbia, while Atlantic Canada and Ontario posted an increase in developments

and more on this subject.

'Wild card' props up Canadian housing markets over past decade

Inventory remains key to stability in 2011

Mississauga, ON (February 8th, 2011) - Tighter inventory levels helped to make the last decade one of the healthiest periods on record for Canadian real estate, insulating markets in major centres from the peaks and valleys characteristic of past decades, according to a report released by RE/MAX.
The RE/MAX Housing Barometer Report measured monthly sales-to-new listings ratios in 18 major centres across the country from January 2000 to December 2010. The report found strong seller's/balanced conditions prevailed for much of the time frame, prompting significant gains in housing values. The lone exception was when the market dipped into buyer's territory during the latter half of 2008 and early 2009. However, fewer listings served to offset diminished demand and provided greater stability. Average price increases from 2000 to 2010 ranged from an annually compounded rate of return of 4.82 per cent in London-St. Thomas to a high of 9.56 per cent in Regina. The national average was 6.82 per cent. By far the tightest market in the nation was Winnipeg, where seller's ruled the roost for 85 per cent of the decade, followed by Hamilton-Burlington (67 per cent), Regina (63.6 per cent), Kitchener-Waterloo (59.8 per cent) and Edmonton (57.5 per cent).

Grand Bend Winter Carnival

2011-02-03T12:36:00.000-05:00

Its here again Friday Feb 4 thru
Sunday Feb 13
Celebrating 25 Years!

2011 marks the 25th anniversary of Grand Bend's Winter Carnival. 1986 was the first year the Winter Carnival was held. This year's theme, "Back To The Beginning" might - if you're the right age! - remind of the Back To The Future movies released in the 1980s.

Friday, February 4

6pm:Sobey's Drive-In Movie Night.

Where: Grand Bend Public School

Build your own car and come out to the movies. Ages - 12 and under. Runs until 9pm.

7:30pm:Garage Band Revue.

Where: Grand Bend Legion

Featuring Amitybeach, Demonic Demon Killers, The Nine Doors and Guests. All ages non-Licensed Event. Sponsored by the Grand Bend Optimist Club. Cost $5/person. Contact: Glen Bailey, 519-238-1472 or 519-238-5464 for more information.

Saturday, February 5

9am:Gables Co-ed Sno-Pitch Tournament.

Where: Lions Park, beside the Legion.

Contact Scott Musser for details at 519-868-6690.

10am:Scrapbooking.

Where: Pine Dale Motor Inn

Tables $15 - includes coffee and tea. To book a table call: 519-238-2231.

11am:Sno-Golf at Oakwood Resort.

Where: Oakwood

Enjoy a round of golf followed by bowl of chilli and Hot chocolate $15/person. Call 519-238-7325 to book tee time.

12pm:Children's Talent Show.

Where: Oakwood Clubhouse

Free admission. Call 519-238-7325 to register.

1pm:15th Annual Riverbend Olympics.

Where: The Riverbend

Gold Medal Prizes and other awards for competitors. Age of majority event. Contact Tracey at: 519-238-6919 to register.

2pm:Paddington's Shuffleboard.

Where: Paddington's

Enjoy playing a frozen outdoor shuffleboard. Get your team together. Call 519-238-5788 for more details.

2pm:AbraKIDabra Magic Show and Mad Science Show.

Where: Grand Bend Public School Gymnasium

Ages - 4 and up.

2pm:Karaoke with Grace.

Where: Gables

Age of majority event. Great prizes!

3pm:Ben Shane and Bobby K and Spaghetti Dinner.

Where: Grand Bend Legion

Call 519-238-2120 for ticket information.

9pm:Riverbend's Karaoke.

Where: The Riverbend

Age of majority event.

Sunday, February 6

9am:Gables Co-ed Sno-Pitch Tournament.

Where: Lions Park, beside the Legion.

Continued.

Friday, February 11

5pm:BYOM (Bring Your Own Meat!).

Where: Gables

Reserve early. Call 519-238-2371. Age of Majority event.

Saturday, February 12

9am:Gables Co-ed Sno-Pitch Tournament.

Where: Lions Park, beside the Legion.

9am:Health Wellness & Craft Show.

Where: Pinedale Motor Inn

Vendors: to book a table call: 519-238-2231.

10am:3 on 3 Road Hockey Tournament.

Where: Optimist Basketball court behind Firehall

Entry forms available at Grand Bend Chamber Office. Contact 519-238-8687 for more information.

11am:Back Door Lunch & Marshmallow Roast.

Where: Custom Catering, 12 Ontario St. S

Buy your lunch at the "back door", roast marshmallows around our firepit and enjoy hot chocolate. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

2pm:Paddington's Shuffleboard.

Where: Paddington's Pub

Enjoy playing a frozen outdoor shuffleboard. Get your team together. Call 519-238-5788 for more details.

2pm:Karaoke with Grace.

Where: Gables

Age of majority event. Great prizes!

3pm:Search for Talent .

Where: Gables

Win Prizes. Age of majority event.

3pm:The Persuaders and Steak dinner.

Where: Grand Bend Legion

$12p.p. Call 519-238-2120 for ticket information. Dinner 5-7pm.

5pm:United Church Chili Dinner.

Where: Grand Bend United Church

Warm up with chilli, salad, roll and pie $8 per adult. Hot dogs for children under 10 - $5. Call 519-238-8912 for more details. Please use side entrance.

5pm:Valentine's Dinner and Dance.

Where: Oakwood Resort

5pm - Delicious Buffet in the Oak Dining Room (reservations recommended). 8:30pm - Live Entertainment, Phil Sloan, in the Clubhouse. Call 519-238-7325 for details.

5:30pm:Rotary Club Parade.

Where: Main Street

Parade runs down Main Street towards the beach.

8pm:Winter Carnival Fireworks Celebration.

Where: Lions Park next to the Grand Bend Legion.

9pm:"Willy Styles" Live at The Riverbend.

Live entertainment.

Sunday, February 13

8am:Grand Bend Firemen's Breakfast.

Where: Located behind Bank of Montreal

$6/Adults. $3/Children ages 5-12 years. Kids 5 and under free! Please bring canned goods for food bank.

2pm:Waiter's Race.

Where: Colonial Parking Lot

Live entertainment by Lance Bedard. Phone Judy Mason at 519-238- 2371 to register.

3pm:Winter Carnival Raffle Draw.

Where: Colonial Rod and Gun Lounge

Draws for all raffle prizes and 50/50 Tickets. Friday, February 4

6pm:Sobey's Drive-In Movie Night.

Where: Grand Bend Public School

Build your own car and come out to the movies. Ages - 12 and under. Runs until 9pm.

7:30pm:Garage Band Revue.

Where: Grand Bend Legion

Featuring Amitybeach, Demonic Demon Killers, The Nine Doors and Guests. All ages non-Licensed Event. Sponsored by the Grand Bend Optimist Club. Cost $5/person. Contact: Glen Bailey, 519-238-1472 or 519-238-5464 for more information.

Homes Sales Increase Nearly 5%.......London Free Press Wed Dec 16, 2010

2010-12-16T06:20:00.001-05:00

Existing home sales rose for the fourth straight month in November, suggesting Canada’s real estate market is levelling out after a year of dramatic swings.

The Canadian Real Estate Association said November's seasonally adjusted resale activity via its Multiple Listing Service was up 4.8% compared to October.
"Following the chilling lows at the onset of the recent recession and the dizzying heights during the subsequent recovery, the national housing market appears to be returning to some semblance of normalcy,” said CREA chief economist Gregory Klump.
Sales activity rose in many local markets but eased in others.Vancouver, Fraser Valley, B.C., and Montreal posted the biggest sales increases with transactions up 11.3%, 10.5% and 8.2%, respectively.
When compared to November 2009, existing home sales were down but that’s masking the steady improvement in national sales since July 2010, CREA said. In the recent past, sales activity peaked in the fourth quarter of 2009 before hitting a low point in the third quarter of this year.
The average price for a resale home in November was $344,239, up 2% year-over-year.
New residential listings on the MLS fell slightly in the month though the supply-demand picture remains balanced, the report said.
"An increase in new listings is likely to return many sellers markets to balanced territory over the coming months," Klump said."With sales activity having returned to better health and a firm floor under prices, sellers who previously shied away from putting their home on the market are expected to list their home in response to improved housing demand in recent months."
Klump also said stiffer mortgage lending rules introduced this past spring helped strike the right balance between preventing speculative housing market activity and keeping homeownership within reach for Canadians.
“Rising interest rates and weaker than expected job growth are likely to contribute to softer prospects for housing market activity and average price growth next year, reflecting weakening economic growth prospects,” he said.

By QMI Agency

Upgrade for Huron Country Playhouse

2010-11-24T14:38:00.000-05:00

This week part of the Huron Country Playhouse bit the dust making way for a 4 million dollar rebuild and upgrade.

2010 MunicipalElection Results

2010-10-29T14:16:00.000-04:00

Who won-Lambton Shores, Bluewater, South Huron

Lambton Shores- 51% voter turnout (this number is not official and could be higher).

Mayor-Bill Weber-2196 (John Dehondt 2027, Mark Simpson 1351, Syd Fletcher 604, Marvin Wallace 79)
Deputy-Elizabeth Davis-Dagg-3215 (Carolyn Jamieson-2906)
One-Dave Maguire-446 (Cam Taylor-391)
Two-Doug Bonesteel-773 (Steve Clemens-35)
Three-Lorie Scott-601 (Gerry Rupke-501)
Four-Ruth Illman-acclaimed
Five-Martin Underwood-454 (Jim Hansen-358)
Six-Doug Cook-353 (Sushil Nakhwal-242)
Seven John Russell-312 (Allan Martelle-287, Jeff Wilcox- 259)

South Huron -Voter turnout for South Huron was 56.45%

George Robertson-mayor-2473 (Ken Oke 1698)
Jim Dietrich-Deputy-Acclaimed
Bill Francis-ward 1-836/Tom Tomes- ward 1-721 (Dianne Faubert 622, Agnes Lempriere-374)
Wayne Deluca-ward 2-798/Dennis Hockey- ward 2-950 (Cathy Seip-767, Bud Heaman-771, Jim Bearss-526)
Dave Frayne-ward 3-Acclaimed

Bluewater
Bill Dowson-mayor- 2588 (Jim Fergusson-2242)
Paul Klopp-deputy-2781 (Doug Johnston-2030)
Tyler Hessel-councilor at large-2442 (M. Taylor-2270)
Geordie Palmer-Bayfield-527 (Janet Snider-357)
John Gillespie-Hay West-582 (Jillian Clarke350)
Kay Wise-Hensall-318 (M. Dickert-151)
Dave Roy-Stanley East-370 (Wayne Keller-201)
Janisse Zimmerman-Zurich-264- (Marg Deichert-215

What good is hydro if the majority of people will not be able to afford it

2010-10-22T11:39:00.000-04:00

FYI : What is going on here.....This letter to the editor was submitted by ROSS AYOTTE 6 CORNELIA ST E SMITHS FALLS ONT K7A1L2

Duguid who is the energy minister for Ontario insists the 784,000 households in the province that are already on time-of-use billing, “ do not see a dramatic shifts” in hydro costs. Wait a minute Mcguinty and Duguild promoted this as cost saving for Ontario. As more people
get there hydro bills they are seeing they have almost doubled in price some people have actually cried when they open there bill.
Duguid said, “I think we got it just right in terms paying producers of solar, wind and other forms of green energy, who can earn as much as 80 cents per kilowatt hour in 20-year contracts this will attract new investment that’s required to build a green energy economic hub here in Ontario.”then Duguid says “we would not have got through this summer without serious problems, disruptions and brownouts.
These are critical investments but Tax payers paid Bruce power last year 57.7 million not to produce hydro, then Mcguinty cancels a contract for a Natural Gas power plant in Oakville at a further cost to tax payers and the government has no idea how much it will cost in penalties to cancel the $1.2 billion Oakville gas power plant, Then McGuinty suggested TransCanada will give the province a break yes that's you the tax payer but one has to wonder how much did Liberal friendly lobbyist and consultants make from Mcguinty to sign this deal in the first place as Mcguinty said the 900 megawatts of power it was to generate is not needed so why did he sign the deal or was it cancelled to save a Liberal members seat.
But one thing we do know is our hydro bill will go up over this blunder. Opposition parties warned the penalties could be as high as the value of the contract .So if were paying Bruce Power not to produce Power and the Oakville plant is not needed as there is no need for it why are we paying 80 cents a Kilowatt for Green Power if it is not needed at a cost 20x more than gas or nucular power and I also would like to note in Ontario, the cost of residential power by 2015 is seen at 21 cents/kWh, nearly triple the price in 2015

Under Ontario's Green Energy Act, a feed-in tariff (FIT) will siphon $3.8 billion from consumers' pockets by 2015 to subsidize wind and solar power producers.

Ross Ayotte

The Race is on in Lambton Shores

2010-09-10T14:36:00.001-04:00

Lambton Shores is the Municipality formed as a result of the amalgamation of Grand Bend, Forest and Bosanquet Township and includes 12,000 residents, living for the most part in the towns and villages of Arkona, Forest, Grand Bend, Ipperwash, Port Franks and Thedford

Now with with five declared candidates for Mayor of Lambton Shores the horse race gets underway as the deadline for declaring comes to a close.

When incumbent Mayor Gord Minielly announced in January he was ending a 30-year political career it created a political vacuum in Lambton Shores

Eager to fill it are three sitting councillors — Bill Weber, Mark Simpson and John Dehondt , one newcomer, Marvin Wallace and a previous Mayoral candidate Syd Fletcher

Beachfront usage and a contentious sewer extension in Grand Bend are two key issues,
With three councillors seeking the mayor's job, seats have opened up Wards 1, 2 and 3 inspiring an influx of new candidates.

Wild election looms in Lambton Shores

2010-07-29T10:23:00.000-04:00

Lambton Shores is the Municipality formed as a result of the amalgamation of Grand Bend, Forest and Bosanquet Township and includes 12,000 residents, living for the most part in the towns and villages of Arkona, Forest, Grand Bend, Ipperwash, Port Franks and Thedford

The following article about the upcoming Municipal Election is from the Sarnia Observer July 28,2010.

SHAWN JEFFORDS The Observer
The mayor's job is up for grabs in Lambton Shores and the campaign promises to be a wild one with four declared candidates and electricity in the air.
When Gord Minielly announced in January he was ending a 30-year political career it created a political vacuum in Lambton County's "other" city.
And eager to fill it are three sitting councillors — Bill Weber, Mark Simpson and John Dehondt — and one newcomer, Marvin Wallace.
In fact, 17 candidates have already filed papers seeking a council seat and nominations don't close until Sept. 10.
Minielly said the "silly season" has begun in Lambton Shores.
Beachfront usage and a contentious sewer extension in Grand Bend are two key issues, and he's happy to let a new crop of politicians duke it out, he said.
"There's a group in the Bend that thinks (council) is evil, and they're trying to put a candidate in every ward," he said. "They're trying to overthrow the government. There's lots of s...t going on."
With three councillors seeking the mayor's job, seats have opened up the wards, inspiring an influx of new candidates, Minielly said.
"The incumbent always has an edge. Because there's no incumbent in those wards there's quite a big interest."
The large slate of candidates is unusual so early in an election cycle, said former Grand Bend Mayor Bob Sharen.
The response reflects a lack of transparency on council over the sewer extension in the Bend, he said.
"It's going to get heated, or at least I hope so. That makes it interesting."
Sharen, who considered running himself, said even more mayoral hopeful may yet enter the fray.
"I'm hearing rumours of at least one more candidate who may come out of the woodwork," he said.
Despite hard feelings created by the sewer issue, Sharen said he hopes the coming debate is civil.
"The candidates need to focus on the issues, not personalities. I think the new people will have an edge in this election. ... They have to get out and let everyone find out what they're really like."
The charged atmosphere in Lambton Shores is in sharp contrast to the quiet mood in Sarnia, which has no declared candidates for mayor and just four council candidates.
Minielly believes Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley will run again but he won't declare until the last minute.
As for himself, Minielly said he plans to be a regular citizen again free of the constraints of political life. Asked specifically what he intends to do, the mayor replied he wasn't sure.
"I guess I'll do whatever I want," he said with a laugh.

Welcome to Grand Bend!!!

The final component of the recent revitalization of Main St. Grand Bend went into place recently. The new "Gateway" was included in the project as homage to the old "Welcome" sign that used to span the Main St. The project received nearly $1,500,000.00 in Federal / Provincial funding support from the Stimulus Program.

Grand Bend

2010-06-28T13:04:00.004-04:00

New Grand Bend sign going up in time for Canada Day. As part of the multi million dollar Main Street upgrade one of the finishing touches is this new sign at the top of Main Street remniscent of some that existed in the past..see 2 examples below. The last Main St sign disappeared in the early 1960's. The cars give you an idea of the era.

Grand Bend 's Downtown Comes Alive

2010-05-18T10:35:00.001-04:00

Changes are Fast and Furious to Grand Bends Downtown

thanks to a multi million dollar upgrade right on the heels of

last years multi million dollar Beach Enhancement.

Other changes as well as the Bend gears up

for the Two Four Weekend

A new Licensed Patio Being added to the Colonial and Gables

Changes and themes to Each Intersection This one at Archies Emporium ( Eilber and Elmwood at Main St )

New Clothing Store at the old Barefoot Pedlar

Elmwood and Main St Intersection

Kazwear and Kazmania's New Building

New Parking Lot Between Archies and Little Ginos with 30 plus Parking Spots

Hard to see but a New Funky Restaurant in the Lakeview 's fromer location behind Appropos called The Sunset

House .

Complete Reno to Grand Bend Hardware beside Sea Jewels which will be the return of George

2010-05-05T10:24:00.000-04:00

The following is from The London Free Press May 5, 2010

Premier Dalton McGuinty has finally admitted Ontario families will pay hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more in taxes because of the new 13% harmonized sales tax, or HST.

It's about time, but it's really no surprise since basic logic told most of us long ago that if we're paying more taxes on more items than before the change, we'll be paying more, despite promises of transition payments and income tax cuts that are supposed to make the HST a wash.

McGuinty had to concede Ontarians will be paying more, and kudos to the New Democrats for releasing a study showing the impact of the HST.

McGuinty is banking on taxpayer (voter) support to pay more in taxes to create more jobs and a better future. Don't count on it.

But there comes a point where shifting taxes from business to taxpayers is not just a burden, but also unfair and a mug's game as the money paid in taxes is taken out of the economy. The shift reduces discretionary spending, especially in the service sector, and costs jobs for the low-income workers who dominate that sector.

McGuinty clearly believes he's doing the right thing and, if the public disagrees, they'll let him know at the polls.

Again, he's right. The pressure's building. Don't be surprised if voters let of a little steam.

Dramatic rebound characterizes Canada's luxury home segment in 2010

2010-04-27T06:56:00.002-04:00

69 per cent of markets set records for best-ever first quarter sales

Just on the market, first time, in Southcott Pines Grand Bend

4-6 bedrooms $ 568,000. Call Larry for details 519 709 8977

more pics below

Mississauga, ON (April 26, 2010) - Luxury home sales soared in the first quarter of 2010 as affluent purchasers moved to take advantage of favourable market conditions across the country, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.
The RE/MAX Upper End 2010 Report, highlighting sales and trends in 13 major Canadian centres and five sub-markets, found that improved economic performance, increased personal wealth, immigration and foreign investment all contributed to a serious upswing in sales. Virtually all areas experienced double and triple-digit increases between January and March of this year over 2009 figures for the same period. Nine out of the 13 markets examined (69 per cent) shattered existing records - setting new all-time highs for first quarter activity in the upper end.
"Real estate continues to resonate with purchasers at every price point," says Michael Polzler, Executive Vice President, RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada. "With the top end of the market shifting into high gear, every segment of the residential real estate sector is now operating in tandem. Despite the upward momentum, there are still deals to be had - especially at the higher price points-a fact that is motivating buyers to act."

Still Time to Rent A Cottage in July & August

2010-04-13T12:48:00.001-04:00

The Fabulous up-grade to Main St Grand Bend continues at a feverish pace to meet the end of May deadline.
Here's a look April 13, 2010

This project on the same scale and scope as last years multi million dollar Beach Enhancement will further Grand Bends reputation as the number one tourist destination. You can join us this summer .There are still a couple of Summer weeks available to rent at 44 Walker located in the heart of Downtown.

Details are at www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

A Really Good Friday at the Bend

2010-04-05T07:21:00.000-04:00

Hundreds of people of all ages came out to enjoy the Beach at Grand Bend in near record setting temparatures as witnessed in this London Free Press photo by Derek Ruttan

While the main Street is still under construction with a multi million dollar upgrade it also was packed with people. The crowds continued Saturday and Sunday too getting a head start on the season. Grand Bends Beach was the recepient of a major multi million dollar transformation last year. This years Main St upgrade is slated to be complete by the May 24 weekend

Low inventory levels

2010-02-24T09:08:00.001-05:00

Low inventory levels set stage for heated Spring market in most major Canadian centres, says RE/MAX

Active listings down in 81 per cent of markets in January

Mississauga, ON (February 24, 2010) - Lack of inventory will be the greatest challenge facing housing markets across the country this Spring, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.

The RE/MAX Market Trends Report 2010, which examined real estate trends and developments in 16 markets across the country, found that unusually strong activity during one of the traditionally quietest months of the year has led to a sharp decline in active listings in 81 per cent of markets surveyed. The threat of higher interest rates, tighter lending criteria, and in British Columbia and Ontario, the introduction of the new Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) have clearly served to kick-start real estate activity from coast-to-coast, prompting an unprecedented influx of purchasers. As a result, 87.5 per cent of markets posted an increase in sales in January. Average price appreciated in 81 per cent of markets surveyed.

"There have never been so many motivating factors in play at once," says Michael Polzler, Executive Vice President, RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada. "We're in for a heated Spring market that will, in all probability, spill over into the summer months, as the window of opportunity draws to a close. The supply of homes listed for sale has been drastically reduced, housing values are once again on the upswing, and banks and governments are moving in unison toward stricter lending policies."

Prime-time parking fees scheduled for Main St. Grand Bend

2010-02-12T16:05:00.000-05:00

This Grand Bend aerial shot from the Lake looking East shows the new Beach, Main Street ( which is undergoing a major upgrade to be ready for this Spring ) and the Harbour taken May 2009

Here's a recent article by DEBORA VAN BRENK, THE LONDON FREE PRESS
3rd February 2010.
Fun won't be free for visitors to Grand Bend's Main St. when beach season begins in May -- paid, prime-time parking is coming to the strip.
While some merchants fear it will harm business, metered parking is one way to make sure Main St. shopping traffic circulates regularly, said Lambton Shores Mayor Gord Minielly.
"The reality is that people were parking their cars at 9 in the morning and returning (to leave town) at 5 in the afternoon," Minielly said.
Paid parking, he said, "is simply a matter of recycling people through" during the busiest times of the day.
Grand Bend is a hot destination for beach- and party-goers during summer months and it's not unusual some weekends to see solid lines of drivers cruising the strip, looking for free places to park.
The new fees for Main St. -- $2 an hour to a maximum of two hours -- apply only during business hours during the summer, Minielly noted.
"Logically, it should benefit businesses on Main St.," he said.
Eight solar-powered pay kiosks will collectively manage parking for 85 parking spaces on the street -- which is newly redesigned with sweeping curves, wider sidewalks, better lighting and pedestrian crossings. With recirculation of visitors, those 85 spots can become the equivalent of 300, town staff say.
Those who don't feed the meter or who wear out their welcome beyond the two-hour limit face a $30 fine.
Paid parking, by the day or the hour, will still be available at the beach and free municipal parking is available a few blocks away.
Debora Van Brenk is a Free Press reporter.

Winter in the Bend

2010-01-21T10:12:00.000-05:00

Changes on Main Street coming this Spring......

Grand Bend Hardware becomes the return of "Georges."

The former Bookstore beside JD's will be a Pet Food Store.

A bigger and better Kazwear.

Two Mayoral Candidates declared so far for Lambton Shores..Mark Simpson currently Ward 3 Alderman and Bill Weber currently Ward 2 Alderman
The two councillors have filed their intentions for the top spot in the 2010 municipal election.

Weber was on Stephen council 12 years- three years as deputy reeve and three years as reeve and it will be 10 years with Lambton Shores.
Simpson is the currently Ward 3 councillor, first elected in 2003 and re-elected in 2006.

Photo taken by Dave Bannister Jan 2010 looking toward the Lake past the Grand Bend Yacht Club Building

2010-01-14T09:31:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year

Looks like 2010 will be great in this area. A brand new Main Street along with several new businesses. More details to follow.

Merry Christmas from the Bend

2009-12-18T06:34:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and all the Best of the Season. Thank you for your support and business in 2009 and I wish you a Prosperous and Happy 2010

Larry

2009-12-03T13:42:00.003-05:00

The dreaded HST - the combined federal and provincial, 13% sales tax thats set to come into effect July 1, 2010 continues moving it's way through the Ontario legislature and the Feds including Ignatieff's Liberals passed the necessary federal legislation to allow the provinces of BC and Ontario to procede to implement it. Dalton McGuinty seems bound and determined not to listen to the opposition to the tax, meaning the citizens of Ontario, insisting its good for the economy. Exactly .....tax the already overtaxed and overburdened consumer where it really hurts on their day to day living expenses. It's not a done deal yet so write and or e-mail your MPP telling them NO to the HST.

Meanwhile in Grand Bend they have finished rebuilding and repaving Main St. and are vigilantly working on the Sidewalks and Intersections it looks like they will have no problem in getting finished for the spring and summer season. It's looking good out there

_________________________________________________________

Mississauga, ON (December 3, 2009) -- In the midst of one of the most tumultuous economic periods in recent history, residential real estate has proven to be a safe harbour, with sales and average prices expected to post gains in most major Canadian cities in 2009, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.

for more click on the link below

http://www.remax-oa.com/MediaNewsroom/Pages/ReadMore.aspx?ItemID=54

2009-11-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

HST will increase the costs of homeownership, say local REALTORS

The Government of Ontario formally launched its latest assault on homeowners, purchasers and sellers with the introduction of Bill 218, the Ontario Tax Plan for More Jobs and Growth Act, 2009.

Local REALTORS say the Government of Ontario's plan to introduce a HST on July 1, 2010 will significantly increase the cost of homeownership by increasing taxes on buyers, seller and owners.

Homebuyers and sellers will pay 8 per cent more on legal fees, appraisals, real estate commissions, home inspection fees, and moving costs, adding about $1,500 in new taxes to the average residential real estate transaction in Ontario.
For existing homeowners, the HST will also add hundreds of dollars in additional tax on utility bills, such as gas, electricity and home heating fuel, on home renovation labour, the cost of lawn upkeep or landscaping and the cost of snow removal.
No matter how you sell it, the HST is a big tax increase for local home buyers, sellers and owners, said Joe Hough, President of the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS. We need government to reduce taxes and help families achieve their dreams of homeownership.
The HST combines the PST and GST into one value added tax, meaning that the 8 per cent PST will be applied to list of goods and services that were previously exempt.

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) estimates that the new tax will add $1,449 in new taxes to an average resale home costing $302,354. OREA also estimates that the HST will add an estimated $262 million in new taxes annually to residential resale real estate transactions.

Homeowners will also have to pay an additional 8 per cent on many services required to maintain their homes. These services were previously exempt from PST and include utilities, home renovation labour, landscaping, snow removal and many others. OREA estimates HST on these services will add $480 in annual tax to the homeowner (based on a family that budgets $500 per month for such costs).

London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS LSTAR

342 Commissioners Rd. W., London, Ontario N6J 1Y3

Phone: 519.641.1400 or 519.641.1434 x244

Fax: 519.641.4613

www.lstar.ca

Downtown Grand Bend Changes

2009-11-03T10:35:00.000-05:00

Construction is well underway on the upgrade and rebuild of Main Street

This is a new two storey building replacing Kazwear near the Beach

Looking West toward the Lake

An eventful month in Grand Bend this October

2009-10-21T14:53:00.000-04:00

There is a big dig in front of Macs Milk and Back in Time , on Ontario St N ( hwy 21 ). Most of the parking lot is dug up perhaps looking for contaminated soil as this once was a Sunoco gas station .

Earlier this month gale force winds came thru town and quite a number of large trees came down

Just last Sunday a fire caused by a burning cigarette destroyed most of the back end at Whitecaps, formerly Bikini Bobs and Gordies Beach House before that on the Main Street

SUMMER KEEPS ONGOING

2009-09-16T14:58:00.004-04:00

Summer continues in the Bend. With this great weather weekends and weekdays are busy. Lots of bargains in the stores.

This Fall Grand Bend's Famous strip will undergo a facelift and makeover tying it in with the Fabulous Beach makeover last year, enjoyed by many thousands this summer.

Photo is of Police vehicles in front of the Bonnie Doone ( still there) in 1959

2009-06-18T07:05:00.002-04:00

The Beach is OPEN and its spectacular !!

The $3.5 million dollar Beach enhancement is completed and open, receiving excellent comments from everyone . Grand bend Beach has also received the Blue Flag designation along with the Grand Bend Harbour and the Port Franks Harbour.

The Grand Opening ceremonies are scheduled for June 30 and on Canada Day, July 1 the usual Fireworks are planned. The Town and beach have been busy this past month and with some consistent warmer weather it will be a great Summer in the Bend;

RE/MAX 2009 Recreational Property Report

2009-06-02T10:41:00.004-04:00

Gen X to flex new purchasing muscle in recreational property markets across Canada, says RE/MAX
Mississauga, ON (June 2, 2009) - Generation X purchasers are poised to replace aging baby boomers as the major force in recreational property markets across the country, according to a report released today by RE/MAX.
The demographic shift was noted in the 2009 RE/MAX Recreational Property Report highlighting sales, pricing, trends and developments in 50 Canadian markets. The report found demand from Gen X (those born between 1965 and 1980) has nearly doubled over one year ago. Seventy-four per cent of markets surveyed this year reported a marked trend toward thirty-something buyers snapping up affordably-priced product, ranging from waterfront cottages to resort condominiums, compared to just 40 per cent in 2008.
"After being priced out of most markets for the better half of the last decade, Gen X purchasers now have the financial wherewithal to buy recreational product at virtually every price point," says Michael Polzler, Executive Vice President, Regional Director, RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada. "Gen X is ideally positioned to pick up any slack in recreational property markets caused by softer demand from baby boomers and retirees. They represent the next wave of recreational property owners in Canada and they know it."
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2009-04-30T13:01:00.003-04:00

.....tis the season

Spring is finally well entrenched and Grand Bend is quickly coming alive.

Construction on the $ 3.5 Million dollar Beach enhancement is progressing quickly to meet the June 1 completion date. The picture above shows a new seating area underway at the old turn-around which now will be more of a lay by or drop off area with a new turn-around further south

New and old stores are opening up on the strip. Housing sales are fairly brisk with prices at or just below last years levels. The good news is there are lots of new listings in all areas.

Summer rentals are filling up and only 1 week in July and 3 in August are availble at 44 Walker in the downtown area. For info on that www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

First Time Buyers Keep it Moving

2009-04-15T15:38:00.004-04:00

There's Good News in parts of the Real Estate Market especially for 1st time buyers. Read the following from

Kristine Owram, The Canadian Press on April 15
April 15, 2009 Kristine OwramThe Canadian Press
TORONTO
Real estate experts say low mortgage rates and more affordable homes in many markets are drawing out first-time home buyers in droves, but one independent analyst says the correction in Canadian home prices hasn't been nearly as dramatic as some believe.
Phil Soper, chief executive of Brookfield Real Estate Services, which operates under the Royal LePage banner, said prices are falling and lenders are lowering their rates, making the market more attractive to people looking to buy their first home.
"The uptick in first-time home buyer purchases across the country is quite astonishing,'' said Soper, speaking yesterday at a BMO conference on Canada's housing market.
"Affordability in places like Vancouver has improved for the first time in a very long time.''
BMO senior economist Sal Guatieri said the average mortgage payment has fallen by one-third, or $600, a month from its peak, while average resale home prices have fallen 14 per cent from their highs.
Guatieri said he expects resale prices to fall "moderately further'' this year for a cumulative decline in prices of approximately 20 per cent.
But Peter Norman, a consultant with independent real-estate adviser Altus Group, said the dramatic drops in home prices seen in places like Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary are the exception rather than the norm.
"This is not a housing adjustment period in Canada,'' Norman said in an interview.
"Certainly, housing demand has slowed down because the economy is the pits, but housing supply has slowed down a lot as well as a result.
"Outside of a couple of submarkets, there hasn't been much of a downward adjustment on price.''
Still, other changes in the market are making this a good time to buy a first home -- as long as the buyer can afford it, Norman said.
"There are a lot fewer of those stories of really rapidly selling houses, bidding wars, all that kind of stuff, so I think it can be a bit more of a sane market for somebody who's trying to buy right now,'' Norman said.
"It may take away some of the anxiety or it may help you make a better decision.''
And most important, overall affordability in the housing market has improved.
"If it wasn't for the recession and the aversion to financial risk that people have right now, it would probably be a very active market and a very good market,'' Norman said.
The Canadian Real Estate Association reported that house prices and sales continued to slide across Canada in February -- the latest month for which data are available -- compared with the same time last year, but activity was up for the first time since September.
The association said resale home prices fell 9.2 per cent across Canada in February to an average of $281,972, while sales fell 31 per cent to 25,373 units, the smallest year-over-year decline since October 2008. Seasonally adjusted sales fell 26.8 per cent.
Meanwhile, the number of homes that traded hands on the multiple listing service, or MLS, was up 8.6 per cent above seasonally adjusted levels in January.

2009-03-30T12:32:00.002-04:00

At a time when the government should be helping consumers these brainiacs have hammered another nail in the coffin of the average citizen attempting to cover it up by offering a $ 1000.00 BRIBE.
People will quickly realize that their monthly costs for electricity, natural gas, phone, cable, satellite, internet as well as their already overtaxed automobile gasoline and countless other items that are now only taxed 5% GST ( not +8% PST ) will very quickly use up that BRIBE when they all jump up 8 % more.
The following news release is from the Ontario Association of Realtors

News Release
Sales tax harmonization will hurt resale home market
(Toronto, March 26, 2009) Ontario’s REALTORS® say the McGuinty governments plan to harmonize the GST and PST will add over $2,000 to the cost of a real estate transaction, hurting the resale home market and prolonging the housing industry’s recovery from the current economic downturn.
"Now is not the time to be erecting barriers to homeownership," said Pauline Aunger, President of the Ontario Real Estate Association. "We need consumers to invest in housing to help get our economy going again."
According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, home sales in the province of Ontario were down 29 per cent in February, compared to 2008.
Under a harmonized sales tax (HST), home buyers and sellers will have to pay extra tax on a range of services associated with real estate transactions such as legal fees, moving costs, real estate commissions and home inspection fees. Currently, consumers only pay the 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on these services.
"These additional taxes could price some homebuyers, especially first-time homebuyers, right out of the market," explained Mrs. Aunger. "Harmonizing will not help homebuyers in any way."
For a resale house priced at $360,000, a HST could add over two thousand dollars in new taxes to closing costs. In total, a HST will add $313 million annually in new taxes to resale home transactions.
"In the last decade, Ontario’s homeowners have faced a barrage of new costs," said Aunger. "From municipal land transfer taxes to sky rocketing property taxes, homeowners are being pushed to the brink to accommodate increasing demands from government. A harmonized sales tax is yet another cash grab on Ontario’s already overtaxed homeowners."

London Free Press Article from March 7, 2009

2009-03-07T10:05:00.003-05:00

Never been a better time to buy that home .
Combined with falling house prices, real estate experts say now is the time to buy
By JULIAN BELTRAME, THE CANADIAN PRESS
OTTAWA -- Jim Rawson says it's a great time to buy a house.
The regional manager of Invis mortgage brokerage firm in Toronto has been in the business since 1978 and has never seen interest rates, both variable and fixed, so low. Pair that with falling housing prices and it's a no-brainer.
"People have to have somewhere to live and whether you are paying for a mortgage or paying rent, you still have to be paying to live somewhere," Rawson explains.
But something is missing in the equation. As prices for most consumer goods, cars and homes decline -- in some cases plunge -- and the cost of borrowing falls, Canadians have been hesitant to buy.
The Bank of Canada did its part this week to lure consumers and businesses out of their fox hole, dropping the overnight rate down to an unheard of 0.5% -- virtually zero.

Canada's chartered banks lowered their prime rate to 2.5% on Tuesday, shortly after the central bank moved, and by the end of the week were lowering other lending rates.
TD Canada Trust is reducing several of its posted fixed-term mortgage rates today. TD's biggest decrease was with its two-year mortgage, which falls to 5.0% from 5.75%.
Scotiabank lopped nearly two percentage points off the advertised price for its 10-year mortgage, which fell to 5.25% from 7.15%, yesterday.
Canadians have slowed down borrowing and spending, most visibly in the auto sector, which saw sales volume crash by 28% in February.

Should I Buy or Should I Go

2009-03-05T12:51:00.003-05:00

When do you think the best time to buy might be????
When the prices are rising ? When selection is limited because things move fast ? When Sellers are getting multiple offers ? When Realtors are phoning looking for something to sell ? When you have to decide immediately and you don't dare add conditions to your Offer in case of losing out ?

NOT LIKELY

How about when there are lots of choices on the market ? When the market is slower ? When ( unfortunately ) Sellers need to downsize for fear of not making their payments ? How about when Mortgage rates are the lowest in History

National and Local housing sales are down, new constuction is almost at a standstill and according to the Canadian Real Estate Association ( CREA )National MLS® home sales activity is expected to decline in 2009 before rebounding in 2010.

On top of this; part of the federal budget, Canada's "Economic Action Plan" includes a first-time home buyers' tax credit of 15% on closing costs (to a maximum of $5,000), which would be worth $750 off a buyer's federal tax bill. They have also increased the amount that first time buyers can withdraw from an RRSP to purchase a home from $20,000 to $25,000 for individuals, and from $40,000 to $50,000 for couples.

Keeping all this in mind the answer is staightforward.

NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY

SUMMER Rental Season Is upon Us

2009-02-25T13:42:00.009-05:00

Large 3 bedroom 3 bath Executive Rental
in the heart of Grand Bend Ontario
Located on Walker St in Downtown Grand Bend
just 3 blocks to the excitement, restaurants,bars and shopping on Main St. Close enough to enjoy but quiet when you come home.
Front Rear and Side decks allow you to enjoy the Great Outdoors.
Both the busy Main Beach and the quiet North Beach ...Your Choice, are just minutes away.
Sleeps up to 10 with 2 double beds, 1 Queen and two Pull Out couches. Two separate Living Ares ideal for Families. Parking for up to 4 cars
DETAILS at www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

Grand Bend Winter Carnival Underway

2009-02-06T13:34:00.008-05:00

The GRAND BEND
Winter Carnival is now on and its the last weekend
February 13 to 15.

Winter Carnival
this year has the theme

"Benguin Goes Hollywood "

Follow www.grandbendtourism.com/february.htm
for a full list of events and activities.

Pictured here are
2 of this years
Snow
Sculptures

Winter in Grand Bend

2009-01-14T12:41:00.004-05:00

Winter Carnival will be held over 2 big weekends February 6 to 8 and February 13 to 15.

Winter Carnival

this year has the theme

"Benguin Goes Hollywood "

Follow www.grandbendtourism.com/february.htm

for a full list of events and activities.

Whats Happening in 09

2009-01-05T09:58:00.003-05:00

There have been many thoughts and opinions published on what 2009 will be like, most are less than positive for most sectors of the economy. I naturally get asked about housing and mortgages.

In the resale market along Lake Huron the last two months of 2008 definitely slowed and while that normally happens there was a noticeable lack of activity this past year.

What then for 2009.

If you listen to or read our friends in the media you might be inclined to dig a hole and hide in it especially if it is US media and to a large extent Canadian media using negative headlines on US stories.

New house starts are definitely down, but down from record numbers since the start of 2000. Re-Sales are also down but again down from record numbers in this century.

Listings are up creating an adjustment to the marketplace resulting in a more balanced marketplace and turning from a Sellers market to a moderate Buyers market.

In our area along Lake Huron a large number of properties were bought in the last few years by Americans taking advantage of the huge difference in Buying power the Us dollar had, as much as 40% at one time. This surge drove Lakefront prices to more than double. This past year we've seen many of these properties come up for re-sale as many Americans facing uncertainty back home cash out. This has virtually eliminated further large increases in Lakefront values and in many cases lowered previous asking prices. The upsurge in Lakefront prices dragged other resort properties up and the drop in Lakefront prices is now moderating those prices as well. How much.... 5 to 10%. Will they continue to fall....... Not likely as there is still a demand for Vacation and Retirement properties and as long as there is water in Lake Huron there will be demand. Insofar as Lakefronts many may be waiting for further drops but remember they're not making any more of it so there is only a limited supply and prices will continue to reflect that.

Mortgages are at a 50 year low and there is money to lend. The factors that created the US mortgage crisis largely do not exist in Canada. Underwriting standards have been and are tougher and Canadians generally do not borrow or leverage their homes as much as Americans. The average Canadian homeowner has a 69% equity stake in their home The US homeowner 45%. So called "teaser" mortgages ie lower initial interest rates that reverted to much higher rates later, were not offered here. The percentage of Canadian mortgages in default is .3 % while its 4.5 % and rising in the US.

In short it is now a very good time to Buy. Inventories of resales are high offering a better selection than in the past, prices have moderated, and mortgage rates are unbelievably low and most of all don't forget properties on or with access to the Lake are limited in supply and they are not making any more.

Have A Safe and Happy Holiday Season

2008-12-11T11:33:00.002-05:00

Ways to welcome winter

2008-11-28T09:52:00.004-05:00

As Canadians, we tend to think of winter as something
we need to endure, rather than something we can actually
enjoy. In this, we tend to differ from other northerly cultures, like Scandinavia,
where both rural and urban citizens are more likely to celebrate the cold winter season as part of
the natural heritage. They’re a hardy lot. Us, we prefer to shiver our way from one warm place
to another… and preferably quickly.
But instead of cursing the cold this winter, try finding some ways to celebrate winter – whether
you’re inside or out:
1. Try a new outdoor winter sport. Take a
snowboard lesson if you haven’t tried this
great sport yet. If you haven’t been snowshoeing
since childhood, you’ll be surprised to find
new light-weight, comfortable and almost elegant
snowshoes out there on the market. It’s a
completely different sport than the one you
may remember. Try something new.
2. Rediscover your childhood. Nothing beats a
hill, a toboggan and a group of family or
friends. Age doesn’t matter either – so long as
the tobogganers are fit enough for the tough
part: slogging back up the hill with toboggan
in tow. This sport is just as much fun as you
remember. And the hot chocolate at the end of
the day tastes just as good as ever.
3. Go for walks in the sunshine. There’s less
sun in the winter months – much less in some
areas of the country. So if you get a sunny winter
day, bundle up and head out to enjoy the
winter. Be sure to dress for the weather… and
don’t forget your sunglasses.
4. Be a winter animal detective. Look for animal
tracks in the snow and try to figure out
what kind of animal made them and what they
were doing.
5. Find a starry window. On a clear winter
night, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, turn
the lights off, and curl up to look at the stars.
Find the Big and Little Dippers, and then try to
identify all the constellations you can. If you’re
very lucky, you may even spot the Northern
Lights.
6. Have a skating party. If you don’t have a little
ice pad of your own, you may be able to
rent a school or public rink. Cook a big pot of
chili and have lots of mugs and spoons so
everyone can refuel quickly.
7. Host a games night. Put a fire in the fireplace,
set out some snacks and dig out all
your old board games. Risk, Monopoly, or
Scrabble … it’s a great way to spend a winter
evening with friends.
8. Make ice lanterns! Fill a bucket with water,
and then float a smaller container (like a topless
juice can) in the centre. You can use tape
to hold the juice can down, or set a heavy
object like a stone tile on top. Set outside in
freezing weather, or use your chest freezer. To
unmold, pour some lukewarm water into the
juice can to loosen it, and then set the bucket
into a bath of lukewarm water to release your
ice lantern. Set a votive candle in your ice
lantern by your front door. Lots of time or lots
of buckets? Make a row leading to the house!
9. Catch up on reading! Get out a stack of
books, find a warm chair and catch up on
those novels you’ve been meaning to read. It’s
a perfect way to spend a quiet winter afternoon
or evening.
10. Perfect your homemade hot chocolate.
This recipe couldn’t be simpler: chop up 6 oz.
of your favourite semisweet chocolate, and
put into a heat-proof pitcher along with a few
cinnamon sticks. Heat 4 cups of milk to almost
scalding, then pour into pitcher and stir until
chocolate is melted.
Whatever you do, take pictures, so you can remember your winter fun!

Courtesy Mortgage Intelligence

HO Address: 2900-3300 Bloor Street West, 9th Floor Centre Tower Etobicoke ON M8X 2X9

2008-11-05T15:38:00.003-05:00

Take Control of Your Home

The equity you’ve built up in your home can be a powerful financial planning tool. Through mortgage refinancing, you can access that equity to pay for home improvements, consolidate debt,purchase a vacation property or invest in your future.
The term ‘refinance’ means to pay in full and discharge a pre-existing mortgage with the proceeds of a new mortgage. When a borrower secures a new mortgage that is larger than the pre-existing mortgage, it is called an ‘equity take-out’.
In some instances, rising levels of consumer debt – often financed by high-interest credit cards – and relatively low mortgage rates prompt homeowners to look more closely at how their homes can help them increase liquidity and improve their overall financial situation.
In other cases, homeowners leverage mortgage refinancing for renovations that, in turn, boost the values of their homes.
If you are considering mortgage refinancing, you will need to first thoroughly review your existing financial situation and mortgage commitments with your financial advisors. Potential short-term gains, such as lower monthly payments, should align with your long-term planning goals. As with so many financial planning exercises, one size does not fit all.

Why Refinance?
There are many reasons to use your home equity to secure additional credit at competitive interest rates.
• Debt consolidation – since mortgage rates are generally lower than other forms of borrowing, you can use the equity in your home to pay in full high interest/high payment debts such as credit cards.
• Home renovations - the equity in your home can be used to finance home improvements, which can potentially increase your home’s value.
• Second property - by leveraging your home equity, you could purchase an investment property or vacation property.
• Investments - the equity in your home can be reinvested in other investments, such as mutual funds or stocks. In fact depending on your investments and your circumstances, a portion of the interest you pay on your mortgage may be tax deductible.
• Education - you can refinance your home to fund education costs for your children, or for yourself, as an alternative to liquidating other investments or RRSPs.
• Retirement planning – your home equity can also be used to make RRSP contributions. In many cases, the compounding benefits of long-term investments and tax deferrals could outweigh the penalty costs of a discharging an existing mortgage.
Calculating the Benefits
Depending on your situation, you might consider one of the following approaches when refinancing your home:
• breaking your existing mortgage and applying for a new one,
• increasing your existing mortgage with your existing lender,
• taking a second mortgage,
• applying for a home equity secured line of credit.
Speak with a Mortgage Intelligence independent consultant to assess the potential benefits and compare your current debt payment schedule against one that takes advantage of a refinanced mortgage. E-mail Larry Broadley today. larryb@hay.net

Before making any decisions about your mortgage, it is a good idea to complete a review of your current financial situation. Below are some key items to document as you get started.

Your Home’s MarketValue: $
What do you estimate is the current market value of your home?
Your CurrentMortgage: $
What was the principal balance of your mortgage at start of term?
What will the principal balance of your mortgage balance be at end of your term?
What is the original start date of your mortgage term?
When does your mortgage mature/renew?
What is the amortization period of your mortgage?
Who is your current lender?
What interest rate are you paying now?
What is your payment frequency (monthly, weekly, bi-weekly)?
How much are your regular payments?
PrepaymentPenalties for Your Existing Mortgage: $

You will likely be required to pay a prepayment penalty if your mortgage is discharged mid-term. Lender prepayment policies should be detailed in your mortgage documentation.
Total monthlypayments on existing obligations $
Includes automobile loans, student loans, credit cards, alimony, etc.
Gross annual income $
our family’s total income from all regular sources.

This is YourMortgage Profile

Once you have defined your mortgage profile, work with Larry Broadley a mortgage professional to review all of your options. larryb@hay.net

FSCO Lic.10428
Central Office: 2900-3300 Bloor St. W., Centre Tower - 9th Floor, Etobicoke, ONM8X 2X3 ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. © Copyright 2008, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved.

Changes, Changes, Changes in Grand Bend

2008-06-26T11:20:00.004-04:00

Sanders bites the dust as crews begin tearing down this famous Grand Bend Landmark on the Beach.
Monetta Menards before that Sanders comes down to make way for 6 new condos to be built this Fall.

Other changes in Town have the former Finnegans being replaced by Archies Sugar Shack. The former Grapevine/Coconut Bay is now Grandpa Jimmy's Scottish Bakery.

The Greek is now Paddington's Pub and we're anxiously awaiting the opening of The Pirates Eatery on River Road down by the Harbour where Capt Nemos was. Purdy's Landing beside that has three new artist studios who have just opened including a revamped River Road Gallery.

READY TO REINVENT YOUR SPACE?

2008-05-21T08:29:00.002-04:00

The lure of a stunning gourmet kitchen or sparkling
spa-style bathroom may have you chomping at the
bit to begin a home renovation but if you heed the
advice of experienced renovators, pre-planning and
advanced preparation are the secrets to renovation
success. Here’s a helpful checklist to get your renovation
started on the right track.
Prepare a realistic budget
Determine how much you are prepared to spend
on your renovation. Obtain a few quotes from
professional renovators to see if your budget is
realistic. As you refine your plans, your budget can
be fine-tuned. Remember to boost your budget by
at least 10 % for unexpected costs.
Decide what you want to do
For most people, this is the fun part – flipping
through magazines and watching home decorating
shows to get inspired. But it is also one of the most
critical phases in any home renovation. Create a
folder with photos and examples of what you hope
to achieve and include a list of issues you want
your renovation to resolve.
Arrange for financing
Get financing in place early to plan your renovation
with confidence. Leveraging the equity in your
home is often the best option. As a secured loan,
you can usually obtain an attractive interest rate
and with flexible repayments, this option can be
easy on your cash flow. Other alternatives include
refinancing your existing mortgage or arranging
for a second mortgage on your home. To obtain
the best possible terms, be sure to work with an
independent mortgage professional who can shop
the market for you.
Select the right team
You’ll want to entrust your project to people known
for their quality of work. Depending on what your
renovation involves, you may need a designer
to come up with an overall design and plan.
Your contractor, who does the construction or
subcontracts it to other trades people, will work with
you or your designer to implement your plan.
Ask for recommendations from friends and family,
interview prospective candidates and always
check references.
Stick with your plan
With a sound plan, reasonable budget, financing
in place and a team that you trust, your renovation
can get off on the right track. To keep it there,
minimize changes and make yourself available for
decisions so that your renovations can proceed on
schedule. Remember to keep your eye on the prize
– it won’t be long before the dust settles and you
can enjoy your amazing new space.
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation (CMHC), Canadians spend substantial
sums on renovations – they project more than
$50 billion will be spent on home improvement
projects in 2008. To make sure you get the most for
your renovation dollars, follow the lead of experienced
renovators and plan ahead for success.

Larry Broadley Mortgage Broker

519 238 5899 1 877 338 5899
larry.broadley@migroup.ca

Is a Recreation Property Right For You

2008-04-30T13:57:00.002-04:00

Whether it’s called a cottage, a chalet or a
country house, the lure of a recreation property far
from the hustle of the city is too much for many of
us to resist.
As Baby Boomers get ready to retire, they’re
driving up interest in these properties – especially
with the attractive financing options available for
second homes. If a recreation property is on your
radar, here are some important questions to ask
yourself before you make the leap:
How would a recreation property impact
my lifestyle?
Consider how a recreation property would fit into
the lifestyle you envision for you and your family –
both the benefits and the drawbacks. In addition to
the fun and leisure aspects of a recreation property,
you’ll also need to factor in the time and cost
involved in year-round property upkeep.
Can I afford the purchase price and/or
a mortgage?
You want to ensure you can afford not only the
purchase price or mortgage, but also the ongoing
– and often unexpected – expenses that are an
inevitable part of home ownership. Work with a
mortgage broker ( Larry Broadley )to fully assess your recreation
property ownership options. Many brokers and
lenders offer specialized services and mortgage
products specifically for second homes.
How far am I prepared to travel?
Peace and quiet often come with a price: distance.
Be realistic about the time you are willing to commit
to travel to and from your recreation property. You
may even want to take ‘test drives’ on busy weekends
to determine travel times during peak season.
Who should I call?
As you would with a primary property, call a
professional real estate agent ( also Larry Broadley )who knows the
region where you would like to buy, and work
with your mortgage broker to secure financing to
determine what you can afford before you begin.
For more information contact :

Larry Broadley Mortgage Broker Mortgage Intelligence and Real Estate Broker RE/MAX Bluewater Realty

1 877 338 5899

larry.broadley@migroup.ca

larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Central Office: 3300 Bloor Street West, Centre Tower, 9th floor, Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3 ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. © Copyright 2008, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved.

RE/MAX Each office is independently owned and operated

2008-04-14T09:46:00.002-04:00

Relax. Your cottage by the lake
isn’t just a dream

As you breathe in that deep breath of fresh air you know you’ve found that idyllic spot where you’ve always dreamed of spending your golden years. It’s the perfect cedar-shingled cottage right on the lake, where you can relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. Like a growing number of Canadians in their peak income years, a vacation property has always been part of your retirement plan and now that you’ve found it, only one step remains; financing it.
In the past, financing for a recreational property
has been more challenging than for a principal
residence, as traditional lending institutions have
found second homes to be a less than desirable
investment. With today’s booming recreational
property market, however, Canadians longing for a
summer, winter or all-season retreat are finding they
have other options.
A growing number of Canadians are factoring a
vacation property into their retirement planning.
While recreational property mortgages are still
relatively new to the market, they can provide
Canadians with an easy and affordable way to
make that cottage, chalet or retreat a reality.
A recreational property mortgage can help qualified
homebuyers make that beach sunset or ski chalet
possible with as little as 5 per cent down. Whether
a homebuyer is purchasing a waterfront home,
resort-style condominium or timeshare property, this
type of product can provide a mortgage on an
owner-occupied second property located in a known
vacation area. To make qualification even easier,
this product can also function as a blanket mortgage
utilizing a principal residence as additional collateral.
Vacation properties are more than just a financial
investment for most Canadians. They quite often
become the spot where families come together.
By visiting a Mortgage Intelligence agent,
Canadians can get the financing they need to realize
their vacation.
Central Office: 3300 Bloor Street West, Centre Tower, 9th floor, Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3 ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. © Copyright 2007, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved.
Larry Broadley
Mortgage Consultant
519 238 5899 of TF 1 877 338 5899

larry.broadley@migroup.ca
larrybroadley.com

2008-04-02T12:03:00.000-04:00

Have you heard about 40 year mortgages and their effect on fueling the Housing and Cottage Market? The following article by Ellen Roseman in the April 2nd Toronto Star tells more

There's a revolution going on in Canada's housing market, one that is propping up prices and extending the boom.
More buyers are choosing mortgages with longer payback periods.
By stretching payments over 30 to 40 years (instead of the usual 25), they can enter the market sooner or buy a better property.
Mortgages with longer amortizations have caught on like a house on fire (pardon the pun).
"About 60 per cent of first-time buyers are opting for a 40-year mortgage," says Craig Alexander, deputy chief economist at TD Bank.
His explanation: Houses are now less affordable because prices have grown faster than household incomes.
"Prices have gone up 10 per cent a year between 2002 and 2007, while historically they have gone up only 4 to 5 per cent a year.
"If these longer amortization mortgages hadn't been around, the housing market would have cooled down a lot sooner."
There's a "huge adoption" of 40-year mortgages in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, where people stretch for affordability, says Catherine Adams, vice-president of home equity financing at Royal Bank of Canada. "I think it's given the housing market a boost and allowed prices to go up further than they would have otherwise."
The Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals did a survey last fall that showed the product's appeal.
Mortgages with longer amortizations grew to 37 per cent of new home loans – and 9 per cent of outstanding mortgages.
"That's phenomenal, considering they have been around for only the last two to three years," says association president Jim Murphy.
Competition in mortgage insurance has accelerated new product development by lenders.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., a federal government agency, used to have the market to itself.
Now it has three private-sector rivals from the United States (Genworth Financial, PMI Group Inc., AIG United Guaranty).
Another big U.S. firm (Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corp.) has applied for a licence, Murphy says.
Is there too much innovation in lending? And is Canada headed down the same road as the United States?
That's the contention of Garth Turner, a Liberal MP and former business editor, who argues that lenders in Canada are flirting with a market collapse.
In his book, Greater Fool: The Troubled Future of Real Estate (Key Porter, $21.95) and his blog, http://www.greaterfool.ca/, he says the net effect of 40-year mortgages is no different from U.S. subprime mortgages.
"Both make buying easier and cheaper. Both lower the bar for loan qualifications. Both augment mortgage debt. Both sustain an overvalued market. Both lead to asset inflation.
"Will they both end badly?"
While 40-year mortgages may have extended Canada's real estate boom, most economists don't foresee an imminent U.S.-style bust.
"There's no evidence that house prices are set to decline in Canada," says Ted Tsiakopoulos, a CMHC market analyst in Toronto.
"Incomes are growing and we feel that's the most important factor that will support price growth."
The forces behind Canada's last housing crash in 1989 – high inflation, high interest rates and speculative buying – don't exist now.
In particular, says Alexander of TD Bank, you don't see house prices decline without significantly higher interest rates.
He predicts Canada's economy will slow until late 2009 and the Bank of Canada will cut rates by 1 to 1.5 percentage points.
"Falling interest rates are not consistent with the housing market running into major problems."
So, prepay your mortgage now if you can. Then, you'll have some equity to fall back on when interest rates go up again in about two years.
Ellen Roseman's column runs Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday in the Toronto Star. You can reach her at eroseman@thestar.ca by email.

For information on Mortgages and or Buying a property call Larry at 877 338 5899 or by e-mail larry.broadley@migroup.ca

2008-03-25T12:57:00.000-04:00

Spring is Sprung (hopefully) and thoughts turn to a new home or cottage.

The big question ? How do I pre-qualify for a mortgage ?

Information required to be pre-qualified for a mortgage:

Ask your employer to prepare a letter on company letterhead outlining your name, base salary or hourly rate, normal hours worked per week, position and length of service. A recent pay stub and a copy of your T4 from last year may also be required.
If commission sales, three years personal tax returns together with the Notice of Assessments from Canada Customs & Revenue Agency.
If self-employed, three years personal tax returns together with the Notice of Assessments from Canada Customs & Revenue Agency, three years business financial statements, and three years business tax returns (if applicable).
Note: New products have been launched to the marketplace where, with good credit, you can qualify for a mortgage based on your stated income*. This type of mortgage was designed for the self-employed, including contractors, freelancers, consultants, commission sales professionals, or small business owners. Talk to us about mortgage approvals specifically for the self-employed.
Social Insurance Numbers. (Optional).
At least 3 years history of residence and employment.
Know your banking information (name of financial institutions, address, and type of accounts, account numbers).
Know your assets (what you own) and their value. i.e. cash amounts, stocks, bonds, RRSPs, car.
Know your liabilities (what you owe). i.e. car loan, credit card balances, child or spousal support payments.
Please let us know about any past credit problems you may have had.
Write down a list of questions you would like to have answered.
A pre-qualification is usually good from 90-120 days depending on the lender and product. Once pre-qualified your fixed rate would also be locked in for a specified time frame. If interest rates go up the rate on your pre-qualification would apply as long as your mortgage closed within the specified time frame. If rates go down you would also benefit from the lower rates again within the specified time frame on your pre-approval.*
To get pre-qualified visit www.larrybroadley.com/MIpage.htm

F or a Home Buyers Guide go to www.larrybroadley.com/hbg.htm

Before you make what is likely to be the biggest financial decision of your life, call us at 877-338 5899 or email larry.broadley@migroup.ca

To maximize the benefits to you, you will want to consider enlisting the services of a Mortgage Intelligence consultant. We negotiate with major financial institutions, chartered banks, trust and insurance companies, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Genworth and others to bring our clients the most competitive mortgage rates and terms. Mortgage Intelligence will usually earn a commission or fee from the lender* for all the work, advertising and promotion done on their behalf. Our professional services are provided, in most cases, at no cost to you. We are constantly updated on rate changes and new products being introduced in the market. As our client, you can choose from the widest range of options, obtain the most competitive rate and best product suited to your specific needs. An extensive network of financial institutions has enabled many of our clients to obtain savings of up to 1.40% below posted lender rates.
For more information or a free consultation - Please contact Larry Broadley at 877 338 5899 or by e-mail larry.broadley@migroup.ca

* Subject to certain guidelines

For Real Estate Buying and Selling along Ontario's West Coast ............Ipperwash to Goderich try http://www.grandbend4sale.com/

2008-03-18T14:23:00.000-04:00

With today's lower rates and market uncertainty this is one of the most often asked questions

Fixed or variable-rate mortgage?

“Wow!” you say to your spouse as you hit the brakes on the car. “Did you see the mortgage rate those guys are advertising?” Your worries are over, you’re thinking. Just lock in a rate like that for the next ten years, and you’ve got it made.

Not so fast. That rate may not be the one for you. Typically, the lowest available rate – and the one that makes the rate sign look great from the street – will be for a variable or adjustable-rate mortgage. That rate has the potential to be like a roller coaster. The posted variable or adjustable rate is the rate you’re getting today. Unless you have an economic Ouija board, you won’t be able to predict what kind of ups and downs are ahead of you.

Let’s take a closer look. A lender will offer different rates for different types of mortgages. The rates are determined based on financial risk – to the institution and to you. When a customer is willing to take on the risk, he/she is rewarded with a lower rate. If the lender is taking on the risk (that is, the customer is promised a particular rate… regardless of what happens in the future), the rate is higher. The longer the term, the higher the risk for the financial institution.

So how do you decide? Fixed-rate mortgages, because they require a low risk tolerance, are usually better suited to first-time buyers or those who haven’t owned a home for a very long period. Ask yourself these questions: Do you like or need to know exactly what your payment is going to be over a longer period of time? Do you want to avoid the need to consistently watch rates? Do you have less than 25% down? If you answered “yes” to all, or most of these questions, a more conservative fixed-rate mortgage could be the better choice for you.

A variable or adjustable-rate mortgage is best suited to people who have a flexible budget and can tolerate higher risk. Ask yourself these questions: Do you watch market conditions? Can you handle any sudden rate increases that could increase your payment? Do you have 25% or more equity in your home? If you answered “yes” to all, or most of these questions, a variable or adjustable-rate mortgage might best suit your needs.

Some lenders offer a special promotional rate for the first few months of a variable-rate mortgage, which you should discuss with your mortgage broker. Also discuss what your rate will be based on – prime minus 0.5% or 0.6% or on Bankers’ Acceptances (BAs) plus 1%. The latter being a new kind of adjustable-rate mortgage that has recently been introduced to the marketplace. Most variable or adjustable mortgages allow you to exercise an option to “lock in” a fixed rate at any time for the remaining portion of your mortgage term or for a longer term.

If the uncertainty of a floating rate is going to give you sleepless nights, you’re in good company. Many Canadians prefer the certainty of a fixed-rate mortgage. They know exactly how much they will pay over the term of their mortgage, and they can plan accordingly… with no financial surprises. But if rates do drop… and drop… and drop… you are committed to the “promise” that you have made. Your best option - have a professional help you decide which option best meets your needs.

For Mortgage info or Real Estate Info click on

www.larrybroadley.com

2008-03-02T07:56:00.000-05:00

Times are changing, now in addition to all your buying and selling needs along Ontario's west Coast ( Lake Huron ) I have now added Mortgage Brokerage to my resume and teamed with Mortgage Intelligence to provide Mortgage and Loan services to clients, making what I offer FULL service in buying a home as well as ongoing re-financing opportunities. I can be reached either at 519 238 - 5700 (RE/MAX) or 519 238 - 5899 ( Mortgage Intelligence ) or Toll Free at 877 338 - 5899.

If your thinking about Summer Rentals in Grand Bend, Port Franks Ipperwash or Bayfield you better hurry, things are booking fast . For Rental info go to www.grandbend4sale.com/RentalPage.htm . At my rental, only the 1st 2 weeks of July are available, however wekend packages ( or weekly ) are available for April, May and June. Go to www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm .

2008-01-22T09:53:00.000-05:00

Grand Bend Winter Carnival 2008
‘Benguin Goes Wild West’

Well Week 1 is over and a GREAT success here's next weekends events and activities

Friday February 8
Riverbend- Kountry Karaoke Contest with Jude 9pm-close
Bikini Bobs-Western wine tasting- 4 -10 p.m. Country Band- 9- 1 am
Gables-The 88s 10-2 am
Gables- Bring Your Own Meat- BBQ-register early-519-238-2371
Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pm
Oakwood-Entertainment: Murray Andrews-The Clubhouse
Saturday February 9
Rotary Club Parade- 1 pm downtown
Bikini Bobs-Texas holdem’
Gables-Search for Talent Contest with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie
Grand Bend Legion- Steak BBQ - Tickets available at Legion. 519-238-2120
Pinedale Motel-Craft Sale 9am to 4 pm All vendors are welcome
United Church Lunch-after the parade-Downtown
Oakwood-8pm Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Show Cost: $20 per person includes tax Call 519-238-2324
Dinner & Show only $50 including tax & gratuity. The Huron Room
Oakwood-9:00pm Entertainment: Murray Andrews The Clubhouse
Oakwood-10 pm Miss Winter Carnival Pageant Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd The Huron Room. Call Diana at 519-238-2324 for details
Sunday February 10
Waiters Race Colonial parking lot-2-5 pm
Grand Bend Firemen's Breakfast-8 am- 11am (Behind Bank of Montreal)
Grand Bend Legion--Veteran's Memorial Mixed Dart Tournament-Register 11 am
Oakwood- 12-2pm Children’s Talent Show FREE - Register at Guest Services before February 3
Sing, dance, play – bring your original ideas to win prizes! Prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd at The Clubhouse
~Bikini Bobs -- 238--2235 ~Gables -- 238--2371 ~Riverbend 238--6919 ~Oakwood--238--2324
~Chamber of Commerce 519--238--2001

Welcome to 2008

2008-01-03T10:38:00.000-05:00

WINTER IN GRAND BEND

Winter Carnival
Feb 1 - Feb 10

Grand Bend Winter Carnival 2008
‘Benguin Goes Wild West’ ...
List of Events and Activities
Friday February 1 Oakwood- 9pm Traci Kennedy – Nashville Recording ArtistGables-10 pm 2 am- RumblefishSobeys drive-in for the kids-FREE-Grand Bend school Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pmBikini Bobs-Western wine tasting 4- 10 pm
Saturday February 2 Gables-Co-ed snowpitch tournament- Feb 2-3/Feb 9-10- Lions Park behind Legion Contact Jane or John Musser-238-6690First ever Winter Carnival fireworks at skateboard park beside Legion. 6 pm- 8 pm Hot chocolate and hot dogsRiverbend- 12th Annual Olympics 1 pm -8 pm Karaoke with Jude 9 pm- close Call to register 519-238-6919Bikini Bobs-Hot Country band 10 p.m - 2 am.Oakwood- Snowgolf- 10 am 1 pm Cost: $15 per person includes golf (club &ball), chili with bun Call 519-238-2324For the kids- Mad Science at the Grand Bend community gym plus crafts, sports and a movie. FREE. Call 519-238-1155Oakwood- 9 pm Traci Kennedy – Nashville Recording Artist The ClubhouseGables- Karaoke with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie 2 pm - 6 pm PrizesGrand Bend Legion and Winter Carnival present- Brad Karel and the Thrillbillies- and Stephanie McClennan- dance to new country at the Grand Bend Legion-Tickets call 238-2001. Sponsored in whole by Ontario Lottery and Gaming.Sunday February 3Oakwood 12-2pm Tobogganing, S'mores & Hot Chocolate FREE – children to be supervised by parents or guardians Hill at Hole #8- The ClubhouseOakwood- 4 pm Superbowl Party Door prizes and special drink prices!Gables- Wild West ride-Challenges on the Mechanical Bull- Chance to try it out. Cheers the cowboys on 1- 5 p.m.Sponsored by 104.9 the Beach radioBikini Bobs-Superbowl Party- Crazy cow contest 6 pm Youth Darts-Grand Bend Legion-Call 519-243-2452 for detailsFriday February 8Bikini Bobs-Western wine tasting- 4 -10 p.m. Country Band- 9- 1 amGables-The 88s 10-2 amGables- Bring Your Own Meat- BBQ-register early-519-238-2371 Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pm Oakwood-Entertainment: Murray Andrews-The ClubhouseSaturday February 9Riverbend- Kountry Karaoke Contest with Jude 9pm-closeRotary Club Parade- 1 pm downtownBikini Bobs-Texas holdem’Gables-Search for Talent Contest with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie Grand Bend Legion- Steak BBQ - Tickets available at Legion. 519-238-2120Pinedale Motel-Craft Sale 9am to 4 pm All vendors are welcomeUnited Church Lunch-after the parade-Downtown Oakwood-8pm Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Show Cost: $20 per person includes tax Call 519-238-2324Dinner & Show only $50 including tax & gratuity. The Huron Room Oakwood-9:00pm Entertainment: Murray Andrews The Clubhouse Oakwood-10 pm Miss Winter Carnival Pageant Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd The Huron Room. Call Diana at 519-238-2324 for detailsSunday February 10Waiters Race Colonial parking lot-2-5 pmGrand Bend Firemen's Breakfast-8 am- 11am (Behind Bank of Montreal) Grand Bend Legion--Veteran's Memorial Mixed Dart Tournament- Register 11 am Oakwood- 12-2pm Children’s Talent Show FREE - Register at Guest Services before February 3Sing, dance, play – bring your original ideas to win prizes! Prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd at The Clubhouse~Bikini Bobs- 238-2235 ~Gables- 238-2371 ~Riverbend 238-6919 ~Oakwood-238-2324~Chamber of Commerce 519-238-2001
NOW IS THE TIME TO THINK ABOUT RENTING THAT SUMMER COTTAGE www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

2007-12-13T10:48:00.000-05:00

All the Best of the Season and a Happy and Prosperous New Year......Larry

What party is the REMAX guy running for

2007-09-20T13:34:00.000-04:00

Well Summer is all but over however the nice weather continues. More often than not September is one of the nicest months of the year even for being on the Beach.

Around here Fall is very busy with new listings and a heightened sales activity. Southbend Estates should see some heavy equipment in the next week or so. A lot of people travel this area in the Fall for the various fairs and events and fall colour changes. Ontario's West Coast ( the Lake Huron Shoreline ) will be getting it's own Radio Station this Fall. 104.9 The Beach has begun test programming and will launch in October. It's studios are located in Goderich. The Rotary Trail from Grand Bend to the Pinery is being paved this fall making of course for a much smoother ride. It's also election season with all the signs rapidly popping up everywhere.. we think that REMAX guy is going to win !

2007-08-30T15:04:00.000-04:00

The Sunsets over Lake Huron have been declared among the Top Ten best in the world by National Geographic Magazine
The crowds for the last long weekend of the Summer have begun to swarm the Beach communities along Lake Huron .....and the parties begin.
By next Tuesday most local residents will be happy to have peace and tranquility return to the area. Many will miss the masses especially those retailers and restaurateurs who make most of their yearly sales in the short 10 to 12 week period of Summer.
South of Grand Bend the Grand Opening of Southbend Estates happened Aug 24. Southbend Estates is a huge development which when completed will have just over 400 fully serviced single family lots, a condominium development and a 200,000 sq ft commercial retail and hotel development. The feature of this new community is a 7200 yard golf course designed by Kevin Homes and being built by Gateman-Milloy who have built over 100 golf courses in Canada. Huron Links Golf Course will also have a driving and practise range along with a first class clubhouse. Reservations are being taken now and already more than 10% of the first phase have been selected. If you would like to get in on this exciting new development e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Labour Day Rental

2007-08-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

Summer is rapidly flying by, and we've had outstanding beach weather albeit not so good for area Farmers.

FYI the picture above is from the North pier looking into the Harbour at Grand Bend

Upcoming events include the Zurich Bean Festival August 25. Legends a historical tribute to those incredible artistic musical pioneers from the mid 50's thru the 70's runs August 8 thru September 1 at the Huron Country Playhouse.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY AUGUST 11 1 PM TO 3PM.
TAKE LAKE ROAD FROM Hwy 21 ( Ontario St ) towards the Lake to Harbour Park Court in Grand Bend

Perfect for 2 or 3 families to share..or start your own Bed & Breakfast in this gorgeous 5 bedroom,4.5 bath home. 2 Fabulous suites,each with their own private entrance on the Main level. Each suite has its own bedroom & bath, complete with whirlpool tub. Both suites have kitchen, livingroom with gas fireplace,hardwood & ceramic floors,9`coffered ceilings,halogen lighting & diningroom. West Suite has view of lake! Bright,spacious lower offers familyroom with gas fireplace,kitchenette + 3 more bedrooms plus 2 full baths. Many handicap accessible features throughout. This is a must see , available for less than replacement cost at $ 549,900.00

Looking for a last minute rental for the last week of August including the Labour Day weekend ........www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

2007-07-25T14:41:00.000-04:00

Scenes like this on are few and far between this year. The Beach has been packed almost every day as the summer is approaching the mid way point.

Last weekend was particularily busy with the Not So Pro Volleyball Tournament with close to 100 teams on the Beach and the IHRA Nationals at the Grand Bend Motorplex. A large attendance ( 42,000 )put it in the top 5 in IHRA history. Upcoming events in the area include the 2007 Zurich Fair July 27,28 and 29. More than 1200 participants have already signed up for the RONA MS Bike Tour - Grand Bend to London July 28 and 29, up 15% over last year.

Cutting Edge Music Festival is at the Grand Bend motorplex during the August 3-6 Civic Holiday weekend Details of that are at www.cuttingedgemusicfestival.com.

The 11th Annual Exeter Rodeo is August 11 and 12 and Miss Saigon continues at the Huron Country Playhouse until August 4th.

All in all a lot of busy times coming up. If you're thinking about renting a cottage in Grand Bend the weeks of August 12 to 19 and August 26 thru Sept 3rd ( Labour Day ) are available ..details at www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

Busy weekend in the Bend

2007-07-19T09:54:00.000-04:00

This weekend its a big time in the Bend . Miss Saigon is on at the The Main Stage at The Huron Country Playhouse thru August 4 as well Moms the Word continues at Playhouse 2.
At Grand Bend Motorplex its the 8th Annual Mopar Canadian Nationals
Friday: Gates open 8am Sportsman qualifying 9am - 6pm. PRO PIT PARTY - Meet the Stars 5:30-6:30pm PRO QUALIFYING 7:00pm (Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Top Fuel Dragster & Nitro Funny Car)
Saturday: Gates open 8am Sportsman qualifying 9am -12:30pm, PRO QUALIFYING 1:00pm(Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Nitro Funny Car, Top Fuel Dragster, Super Shockwave Jet Truck) Sportsman Eliminations to follow to 6pm. PRO PIT PARTY - Meet the Stars 5:30-6:30pm KNOLL GAS NITRO JAM 7:00pm (Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Top Stock,Nitro Funny Car, Top Fuel Dragster, Super Shockwave Jet Truck followed by Fireworks)
Sunday: Gates open 8am Sportsman eliminations 9:00 am, PRO ELIMINATIONS Rd 1 10:30am Rd 2 Noon Semi Finals 2:00pm, Finals 4:00pm ( Sportsman eliminations continue between rounds)
If thats not enough there's the 5th Annual Not So Pro Volleyball Tournament on the Beach Fri Sat and Sun.

2007-07-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

One sure way to beat the summer heat is Ice Cream and the picture beside shows the number and variety of places offering that treat. This is a picture from an article in this weeks Lakeshore Advance describing the various ice cream locations along the Lake Huron between Port Franks and Grand Bend. Read the complete story at http://www.lakeshoreadvance.com/

If you're still thinking of a Summer Vacation in the Bend and don't think you can find a palce to stay try this link www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm.

There are still about 4 weeks available plus why not try a fall and winter vacation.
Something new ..Hay Communications , the local telephone company, has installed wireless internet access points throughout the Grand Bend Core and Marina areas. Access is free to the Chamber of Commerce website and e-mail and/or buy blocks of time to use while in the area.

2007-06-21T12:07:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of Grand Bend's Harbour. The picture above is current and is looking inland from the Lake. Below is looking out to the Lake in the 1960's. The round signs in the pictures ie Texaco below and the one to the right and top in the top picture are the same, except the newer sign advertises Oakwood Inn.

Summer starts today ( officially ) even though its been quite busy already. Last weekend saw the return of Burgerfest on the Beach in Grand Bend with big crowds enjoying the entertainment.

Last week was another successful Scatcherd Invitational.

On July 6th and 7th there will be a Corvette Weekend in Bayfield. The RE/MAX Ballon will be there on Saturday the 7th. There are still some of you looking for a cottage to rent this year and this link will lead you to one with weeks still available .

www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

If you're looking to rent or buy or sell please call me and I can help. There are lots of available cottages, homes, Lakefronts and businesses in all price ranges along the coast. Interest rates are still good so don't delay.

Last but not least the Riverbend Bar and Grill in Grand Bend celebrates 10 years in business all day next Wednesday June 27th. Congrats to Doreen and Tracy Ulch. To contact larry call 519 238 5700 or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Summertime and the livin' is easy

2007-06-13T12:26:00.000-04:00

Summer is fast approaching and activity around here is getting exciting. July and August are definately family months. If you're still looking for a Summer rental, here's a new entry that still has weeks available in July and August. www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm. Local guy Greg Gallello is a finalist in Canadian idol. He was at the Colonial last Friday so watch for him to play locally again. This weekend June 16 and 17 is the return of Burgerfest featuring entertainment on the Beach both days. Every Wednesday from 8 AM to 1 PM it's the Grand Bend Farmers market at the Gill St parking lot ( beside the school and library ). Local Zurich resident Helen MacLean was the grand prize winner in the Dream Lottery , congratulations even though it was supposed to have been me. Huron Country Playhouse is active again with a full schedule for the summer. One of Canada's few remaining Drive In theatres is now open for the summer as well. All in all a busy summer ahead and it's maybe it's time you purchased your piece of this action. Call me Larry Broadley and I can help you with your search for a new home, vacation or retirement home along the coast of Lake Huron. 519 238 5700 ask for Larry or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

A New Rental is Available

2007-05-26T10:25:00.000-04:00

Well we survived another two - four week end and sanity returns. Almost everything is open again in Downtown Grand Bend and as I told you there are a number of new stores this year. If you are thinking of a summer holiday in Grand Bend I've just added a new rental to the market and because it's new all weeks are available so hurray and have a look if what you wanted has already been filled elsewhere.... www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm . Canada Day week is also available at 11 Dietrich www.grandbend4sale.com/11Dietrich.htm . See the pictures at the top.

Now with the nice weather here to stay there is lots of activity: the beach has been full this week and there arelots of boats in the harbour. Don't forget Burgerfest on the Beach June 16 and 17. Saturday ( 17th ) entertainment is Brad Karel and the Thrillbillies 2 to 5 PM and Green River Revival 8 to 11 PM. Sunday is Denise Pelley and Cheryl Lescom 2 to 5 PM. Admission is $5 at the door and it is geared for the whole family ( Licensed by A.G.C.O ).

Here's a picture of the Beach in the 60's

Burgerfest is Back

2007-05-08T10:54:00.000-04:00

Things are really coming alive now that the warm weather has finally come, hopefully to stay. Last weekend traffic downtown was heavy and the number of retailers that were open was exciting. Upcoming openings include a new Archies Junior , Bluenotes, Scoops and Sea Jewels 3 on Main Street. A new restaurant/diner on Ontario St (Hwy 21) in the former I'm Starvin, Grampa Jimmys Scottish Bakery in the former Grapevine Bar on Ontario (21). Recently Sportsmed and Garden Gate opened ; Cranbury Lane moved close to the Bridge and GB Posh opened in their former location ( all on Ontario St ). Future retail opportunities exist at Pineland Pro Hardware( see pic on the right above ). The building and land are for sale as is the business . These can be bought as a package or separately. The former Dollar store space beside the LCBO ( see pic on left ) is also available and if you have any interest in either of these properties or anything else in Grand Bend give me a call at 519 238 5700 or larryb@grandbend4sale.com.

Burgerfest is back in the Bend this year June 16 and 17 on the beach, watch for more info on upcoming events. If you have any comments please feel to e-mail me...Larry

Lovin' The Jungle

2007-04-07T10:02:00.000-04:00

This is 44 Walker St Downtown Grand Bend to the right and 5 Queens Ave Downtown Grand Bend below

The Downtown area of Grand Bend is both fascinating and interesting. Known officially as Plan 24 and affectionately as " The Jungle " many people love it or hate it with more and more moving to the loving it side. The " Jungle" has been party city for decades. Most cottages were built in the 30's, 40's and 50's as unheated unwinterized cabins and of course used only in the summer. During the 60's and 70's it really became "party town" as the "boomers" discovered how easy it was to get here and how great it was to be here.

The lots are small, the downtown bars and the beach are all right at at hand making it cozy, friendly, fun and exciting.

Things are changing and the party image is fading as those same "boomers" are coming back, this time with money and kids and /or thinking of retirement. Renovations, tear downs and rebuilds are everywhere. The key ingredients that made it great still exist and that old real estate adage of " location, location, location" is entirely at play with the great beaches, restaurants, bars and shopping right at hand. Prices are reflecting the increased interest as well. Into the late 1990's and early 2000's almost everything was available under $ 100,000 with an average price around $ 50,000. Now a tear down is hard to find and would be around $ 150,000 with most prices now $ 200,000 and above and increasing. A new 30 house development scheduled to start this year on Queens Ave will have prices $ 300,000 and above as well as 3 new homes being built at Oak and Warwick also touching that price range. Now is the time to jump on the band wagon because there are no new lots being developed anywhere in Grand Bend on the lake side of Hwy 21. This is also a very popular area for people wanting to rent; this time with families in tow . So buying a cottage/home and renting it out a few weeks helps affordability by covering most of your carrying and operating costs. The Party image is all but faded with the exception of the May 24 weekend, but the fun and desirability is stronger than ever. The two cottages at the top of the page are year round homes and both for sale. If interested let me know by phone 519 238 5700 or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com.

Return of the Fishing Boats

2007-03-29T10:14:00.000-04:00

Last weeks picture of Grand Bend's Main St in the 50's created quite a few comments and e-mails so this week this picture is of the same Main Street in the 1930's, again looking toward the Lake. Also if you want to see more pictures of the Grand Bend area from the past use this link
http://www.grandbend4sale.com/OLdAreaPics.htm

Spring is here and some of the last couple of days have been fabulous. One sign of Spring is the fishing boats returning. Early last week they broke thru the ice at the Harbour and at least one is in and now working. Another sign of Spring is the number of workers showing up at various locations on Main St renovating and getting ready to open.Calls on Real Estate have increased markedly and now is the time to buy if you want to be here for the May 2-4. I also have several business opportunities available so if your thinking, act now and give me a call or e-mail 519 238 5700 or larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Looking Toward Knapps Arcade

2007-03-20T15:36:00.000-04:00

This is picture of Main Street Grand Bend looking toward the Lake in the 1950's. To see more pics of Grand Bend from the past go to www.grandbend4sale.com/OLdAreaPics.htm

The official start of Spring is just a couple of hours away so I thought it might be nice to see a summer pic, so why not one from the past.

Cheaper Heating Next Year

2007-03-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

Made it thru the Ides of March and now on to St Paddy's Day. This time change took a little getting used to; the warm weather the first of the week took no time getting used to. I haven't updated my house construction lately so I will. We've been taking a break since Christmas but now the warmer ( I hope ) weather is here and it's back to work. The main floor is virtually complete so now we have to finish the garage which will let us then insulate the roof of the garage and add more to the house.. good time you say, well it just got too cold too work in the garage. Think how much cheaper heating will be next year. Work begins on the Lower Level too and then the Yard.
Activity continues around town with the new Flower shop at the corner of River Road and Ontario St now open. The Census is out and Lambton Shores grew 5.5% as did Grand Bend which is within Lambton Shores.There is no doubt as more and more Baby Boomers prepare to retire and with modern technology, this is THE place to live.

Spring brings change

2007-03-09T14:24:00.000-05:00

Well I don't know why but I haven't been able to access this blog to change it for almost a month and now for some reason it opened and became accessable.
"So what has happened over the past few weeks" you ask. Winter and its cold weather has stayed with us but it looks like it will warm up this weekend along with the switch to Daylight Savings Time. In the Real Estate world I've just listed the Pro Hardware property and the business separately offering many potential methods of purchasing ie the land and building; the business with or without a lease or both. This is probably the most prime location in town at the busy corner of Lake Road and Ontario St ( Hwy 21 ).
Work is underway at the former Grapevine Bar, Finnegans is remodelling,the Bookstore is closed and a new business is opening there as well as a new flower and gift shop beside New Orleans Pizza and the Grand Bend Speedway has new ownership and will be expanding. Spring brings lots of changes and it will be interesting to see the annual transformation of downtown as it once again gets ready for the Summer businesses.

Winter Carnival Wrap Up

2007-02-14T11:07:00.000-05:00

Well Winter Carnival has come and gone and by all accounts it was one of the most successful ever. Last Saturdays parade had well over 50 entries. There were 20 or so snow sculptures and lots of activities both weekends, all well attended. This years organizers deserve a big round of applause.
This year Daylight Savings Time comes early March 11. Don't know for sure what that will mean but we'll find out, hopefully with Wiarton Willy having not seen his shadow it will bring warm weather with the extra daylight. Wouldn't be able to tell that by this weeks weather though.
Summer Rentals are busy with many reporting at least half the summer is booked already. Most of the good places are fully rented by mid March. If you are looking... this link will get you to a list of availabilities and other links to sites that have places for rent www.grandbend4sale.com/RentalPage.htm
Sevareal places have sold recently and now is a great time to buy..good selection and in many cases motivated sellers. For a complete list of what is for sale try this link and use the Search Engine www.grandbend4sale.com/listingdir.htm

Taxi Cop

2007-01-31T15:33:00.000-05:00

The Grand Bend Winter Carnival starts this weekend and we have lots of snow. Snow carving has stated at 20 different locations and they are starting to look good. I don't know if this is silly season but recently in Sarnia a man tried to get into a police car and pay the driver to take him home. He did get a ride home but was also charged with being drunk in a public place. In Grand Bend a well marked cruiser was parked in a parking lot when a vehicle pulled in and started doing donuts. The officer approached the lone driver and found open beer and marijauna in plain view. He will appear in court at the end of February . In the more stable part of the world we're starting to get a fair amount of activity and interest in Real Estate and this Spring looks like it will be good one. Lots of new listings showing up too.
If you want a list of Winter Carnival events click on this link
www.grandbend4sale.com/WinterCarnivalSched.htm .

New TV stations

2007-01-17T13:39:00.000-05:00

Who said they missed winter? Well it's here now with the coldest days yet. Can't complain too much after all it is mid January. This makes things look promising for the Snow Sculptures during theWinter Carnival starting Feb 2.
The Bank of Canada left the interest rate alone with some predicting a future decrease. Good news for anyone looking to buy property.
The Spring Real Estate activity is starting . I sold the Walker St property in downtown Grand Bend this week and getting lots of calls on others. This is the best time to buy , lots of selection and anxious Sellers.
For those following my reno project, not much has happened since Christmas ( nothing ) however the only thing left on the main floor is finishing off the trim. The basement is next and hopefully we'll get on that this month.
Southcott Pines a large and well established subdivision in Grand Bend is adding Bravo and Showcase to it's TV lineup this week keeping it's many seasonal and year round residents happy.
If you're interested in what's happening at the carnival there is a link to an activity list on my web site www.grandbend4sale.com .While you're on the site check out the many links and features as well.

Spring Art Tour

2007-01-11T13:52:00.000-05:00

Into the New Year now and everything seems back to normal. Activity in the Real Estate world while still seasonally slow is showing signs of picking up. 2006 turned out to be a record year despite all the predictions of a slowdown. In this market we cater to both seasonal vacationers and those who are retiring or planning to retire. Lake Huron is certainly the place to be to enjoy the later years as well as those younger years. I always say as long as Lake huron is full ( of water ) there will be a market for buyers and sellers. Interest rates continue low with rumours of more decreases. The rental market is hot too and I'm already busy into booking this years renters. Last years renters get first shot until early February then its a free for all. Most responsible rentals give previous customers, assuming they were good , first shot.
With the warmer weather I predict things will heat up even quicker than previous years.
Watch for the Grand Bend Winter Carnival coming the first of February..."no snow...no problem". All activities with the exception of snow carving will go on regardless and the committee this year will react quicky on that front if any snow falls. Tickets for many events are available this week so book now. Here's a link to the activities. www.grandbend4sale.com/WinterCarnivalSched.htm
Watch for a Spring house tour featuring the work of our many talented local artists

Summer in January

2007-01-03T10:22:00.000-05:00

Well its over ( the Holiday Season ) and life can return to normal, that is if normal is everyone trying to live up to New Years resolutions changing their life , at least for a couple of weeks or days, and if normal is several golf courses opening today. Interesting weather and everyone likes it , that is except skiers and snowmobilers. I spent yesterday piling firewood in the backyard, again an unusual thing to do Jan 2nd. Today it is bright and sunny and from inside it looks like Spring outside. With this weather many things can start happening , the heavy equipment showed up this morning to start the demolition of the forrmer Seven Dwarfs Motel ( see previous blog ) and I suspect the weather will spark some early real estate interest. I'll be contacting last years summer renters right away to give them first shot at the same dates this year before advertising to the general public. If you are thinking of renting in the Grand Bend area you should book soon, most of the best dates are gone by the end of March and usually everything is booked by May. This link will take you to a rental page that has links to various sites that you can find rentals as well as contacts to reach individuals who rent out their cottages. http://www.grandbend4sale.com/RentalPage.htm If you are someone who has a place to rent e-mail me the info and I will include it on this page..no charge.

Happy FESTIVUS for the Rest of Us

2006-12-22T10:50:00.000-05:00

Well it's here.... a green Christmas. At least that's helpful for those who have to travel.
The former Grapevine Winery and Jazz Bar (and former Coconut Bay ) will become a Scottish Bake Shop we are told. Speaking of Coconut Bay Rick Powell former owner and entertainer there has a Video of many years at the Bay.
Many exciting changes will be happening this Spring in the residential area of downtown Grand Bend. The former Wondergrove Trailer Park will become 19 single family homes and one Duplex. This is located on Queens Ave at Centre Street. At the corner of Warwick and Oak in the former Seven Dwarfs Motel property there will be 3 new homes. A new two storey home is under construction at the corner of Woodward and Walker St. Things are changing in what we used to affectionately call " The Jungle ".
This is a great area to live, it's close to everything, Downtown, Shopping, Nite Life and the superb North Beach. If you want to be a part of this excitement I have a 2 plus one bedroom cottage For sale at the corner of Elmwood and Walker St. That is the northern most point of Grand Bend downtown. Houses on Walker back onto Oakwood.
This will be my last entry before Christmas so I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Channukah, Seasons Greetings, Happy Holidays and Happy Festivus for the Rest of Us as well as a Happy and prosperous New Year....Larry

Check out the Lake

2006-12-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

Well if you complain about the weather..it changes ( last weeks blog). It is again very warm for this time of year which won't please those who want a White Christmas. Personally I like it for getting around and every thing related but it doesn't do much to feed the spirit of the season.
Not much new in Grand Bend at this time of year. We had a power failure for a couple of hours yesterday, someone spun out on some black ice and wiped out a pole. I got to try out my new generator ,which I have just hard wired into the house, and see if I have the right circuits connected. I bought it last yaer after the big power failure we had on Super Bowl weekend but haven't had a chance to use it as that was the last outage we had ( this is not a complaint ).
Everything worked fine so I can say bring it on if you must.
Those renos are progressing and today I hope to get the floor laid so it will be up and ready by Christmas, maybe even by next week.
In the real estate world I haven't found out who bought the Grapevine but lots of rumours are flying. It is supposed to close next week, so we'll find out soon.
Lots of R.I.D.E programs around and they are nabbing people so if you drink please don't drive. If you are interested in seeing the Lake and or the weather here click on this link to a webcam located on the Grand Bend Yacht Club's building. It looks out toward the Lake thru the Harbour at the Bend. There is a link also on my web sites home page. http://www.gbyc.ca/WebCam/index.shtml

Tim's and Dogs

2006-12-07T09:39:00.000-05:00

Winter has arrived along Lake Huron. Lots of snow overnight and although expected at this time of year it is a shock after last weeks nice warm early fall like weather. Here in Grand Bend plans are coming together for Winter Carnival in early February ( starting Feb 2 ) More details here ......http://www.lakeshoreadvance.com/Carnival%20schedule/index.html
Most of the excitement at this time of year is our daily morning coffee session at Tim's and watching the less intelligent among us try to drive out of Tim's the wrong way. What part of ONE WAY did you miss??? The other phenomina seen at Tim's is the large number of people who drive with their dogs on their lap, I'm sure there must be some kind of rule aginst that.
Renovations on my house are proceeding as quickly as ever which translates to Snails Pace. A wall came out yesterday and at least we can now see an end or at least a goal.
In other local news the Grapevine Bar, formerly Coconut Bay on Hwy 21 has been SOLD and hopefully end an eyesore that has existed for the last several years. Now about Main St.....

Next Week Already

2006-11-29T10:58:00.000-05:00

Well here it is another week already. Boy time goes by quick. It is a slower time of year in the real estae world what with Christmas and all consuming peoples thoughts and time. It is however a good time to buy, lots of selection and not a lot of competition. What about buying him/her a new cottage for Christmas. Seems like a good idea to me. Personallly I'm in the middle of a massive renovation and hoping it will be mostly done by Christmas. This warm weather has been a real boon as I'm working in an unheated area and it would be much slower and more difficult if it was cold. We're insulating the area tomorrow and the heat will be in , just in time for it to turn cold Friday.
This week I also had several trees taken down and again the weather was great for that. I live in an area with large Oak trees and plenty of them. Unfortunately they grow in sand and many of them rot from the inside out over time, because of the lack of nutrients in the soil. In the spring I'll plant a bunch of new trees to keep the cycle going.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T11:04:00.000-05:00

Well this is actually my first post and it happens to be Thanksgiving Day in the USA. Up here in Grand bend there are quite a number of US property owners being one of the nicest beach areas in North America and just a short i hour drive to port Huron and 1 1/2 hours to Detroit. I see that both Thanksgiving parades Detroits and Macy's New York are 80 years old which is quite an accomplishment in both cases. Don't know what else to write about yet, as I said this is the first so I'll let it go at that..Larry