http://www.reincanada.comRSS feeds for R.E.I.N. - Canada Real Estate Investment Strategies & Tips60http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/68/home-values-hitch-ride-on-lrt-henday.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=68http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=68&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/68/home-values-hitch-ride-on-lrt-henday.aspx Home Values Hitch Ride on LRT, Henday By Bill Mah, Edmonton Journal Ongoing expansion to Edmonton's LRT and ring-road systems will benefit not only commuters, but homeowners and real estate investors, says a report released Wednesday. Prices of homes near new LRT stations and extensions of Anthony Henday Drive will out-perform the rest of the city's market in coming years by 10 to 20 per cent, said the Edmonton Transportation Effect, an update on a report first released in 2007 by real-estate researcher Don Campbell. Since the last report, it expands the list of which neighbourhoods will be most impacted by Edmonton's transportation improvements, including projects already completed or still to come. The Southgate and Century Park stations are scheduled to open in 2010. Meanwhile, with the southeast portion completedandconstructionunderwayonthenorthwest section, theAnthonyHendayRingRoadis expected to be 90 per cent complete by 2011, said the report. Campbell said provincial and federal infrastructure funding will directly benefit specific Edmonton home values. "They're spending our tax dollars on infra-structure whether we want them to or not," Campbell said. "This is a way for average Edmontonians to actually have some positive impact from those dollars being spent by finding a property that's going to be in one of these neighbourhoods. "It's supposed to stimulate jobs, but this here is proof it's going to stimulate the real estate market as well." Thereportdivides areasthat willmostbenefit from transportation upgrades into four tiers. The first tier includes areas that are expected to see the most benefit from transportation improvements, mostly located on the 111th Street corridor. In the first tier are: Blue Quill, Ermineskin, Sky Rattler, Twin Brooks, Parkallen, McKernan and Belgravia. "This region will enjoy the twin impact of the ring-road access and LRT expansion,"said the report. The second tier will benefit from one of the major improvements: South Mill Woods, Pleasantview, Lendrum and west-end neighbourhoods including Jamieson, Glastonbury, Aldergrove, Thorncliff and Belmead. Thereportsaysathirdtierwillbenefitinyears to come once the northern section of the ring road is designed and completed. In the northwestaretheCastleDownsneighbourhoodsand Lago Lindo. In the northeast, the report lists Miller, Casselman, Kirkness, Fraser, Rundle Heights and Abbotsfield. In the fourth tier, regions will feel a ripple effect outward, such as St. Albert, Fort Saskatchewan, Devon and Sherwood Park. The report is available at albertarein.com hostThu, 28 May 2009 16:27:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:68http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/67/vultures-in-the-desert.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=67http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=67&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/67/vultures-in-the-desert.aspx Vultures in the desert Canadians are snapping up foreclosed homes in the U.S. Southwest. Is it the opportunity of a lifetime, or a disaster in the making? Written by Nicholas Köhler, Macleans.ca In her form-fitting power suit, in a beige-toned Calgary hotel conference hall, Nancy Bacon greets a crowd of would-be real estate investors with a question: “How many people in this room like to be told what to do?” Bacon, VP of financial planning development with CBI Group, is flattering the Calgarians in their after-work jeans, who like to think they don’t need Sarah Palin to tell them what a maverick is. And CBI is pitching a scheme only mavericks could love: invest a minimum $10,000 in a foreclosure acquisition fund created to make massive real estate purchases in one of the worst-hit subprime cities in the United States—Phoenix, Ariz. As of February, prices there had fallen 35.2 per cent in a year, and by slightly more than half from their peak in June 2006, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller index. That annual decline is the worst in the country. One in 40 Phoenix homes received foreclosure notices in the first quarter, according to RealtyTrac, which monitors U.S. foreclosure data, the country’s ninth-highest rate—visible on the desert cityscape as discrete patches of unwatered browns amidst a checkerboard of green lawns. Despite those stomach-churning stats—indeed, because of them—CBI’s Arizona Acquisition Fund of Alberta is aiming to raise $12.5 million to purchase 175 single-family homes around Phoenix. It uses local intelligence, sending teams of scouts at 4 a.m. to assess lender-owned properties slated for auction the next day. A Phoenix property management company will rent the homes—some to the very families the banks have foreclosed upon—for the next five to six years. Then CBI will sell, raking in the appreciation. Investors get six per cent a year on their money and 60 per cent of the net profits. That is, if there are any profits. Bacon spells out the requisite caveats for the Calgary crowd—that the fund is governed by the Alberta Securities Commission and that it can make no guarantees—but notes the “goal” is to double the capital in four to six years. It’s a target some have taken to heart. “I expect to see the redemption of my $10,000 bond and a dividend of $10,000, and I think I’ll do better than that,” says 60-year-old investor David Boyle, a Calgary civil servant and rental property owner. “In all my years of investing, I’ve never seen anything as good as this.” But is it too good? For some, banking on a rebound in Phoenix is no gamble. Tom Caldwell, of Gilbert, Ariz.-based Brewer Caldwell Property Management, which rents the CBI properties and provides it with local real estate scuttlebutt, projects a graph of prices on the wall, decades of them—a bouncing India-rubber ball of high times and crashes. Prices, he says, have rebounded time and again. “This time’s different. We’re never going back,” he adds, chuckling. “I’m being a little facetious. I don’t really believe that.” CBI isn’t alone in seeing gold glittering at the bottom of the U.S. subprime maelstrom. The past year has seen half a dozen such vulture funds spring up. The focus on residential properties may be a Canadian first. Though large institutional investors have ventured south in past crises—in the savings and loan debacle of the ’80s and ’90s, say—they tended to favour land and commercial real estate. “Single-family homes have typically not been an institutional type of investment,” says Jarrett Zielinski, CBI’s vice-president of property acquisitions. “Prices have dropped so low now, and rents have not followed suit, that this type of investment actually has become institutional grade.” CBI and Optimus are attractive in part because they provide these small investors a chance to flirt with the contrarian élan of a Warren Buffett or Prem Watsa. “How come we buy high and sell low?” Bacon asks, goading the Calgary audience. The crowd shouts answers. “Fear,” says one. “The media!” another. “We don’t listen to opinion,” says Bacon. “We listen to facts.” Those facts, as CBI and others have them, lead the savvy to one conclusion: wading into the subprime quicksands of the Sunbelt is a good idea. Quoting Buffett, Bacon counsels her audience to “be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful.” Yet democratizing a vulture fund like this is eerily similar to the wildly endemic speculation, fuelled by easy credit, that led to the subprime mortgage crisis in the first place. Prior to the 2006 peak, recalls Karl Guntermann, a real estate prof at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, new Phoenix subdivisions unleashed a circus of buying. “People would camp out, day and night in the desert’s 110-degree heat, sometimes for days, to be first in line,” he says. “You had people getting off tour buses buying five and six houses,” says Greg Swann, a Phoenix real estate agent. Speculators left many vacant, banking on endlessly rocketing values to make them rich.  So it’s perhaps appropriate that the subsequent crash has now sparked yet more speculation—a healthy portion of it Canadian. So topsy turvy have the markets become that, despite its dismal numbers, Phoenix is seeing a fresh frenzy of buying. “It’s getting crazy again; we’re running into properties with 10, 12 offers on them,” says Chris Keith, a Phoenix realtor who specializes in Canadian buyers. “You have to jump on them or otherwise they’re gone. I don’t understand why the banks aren’t raising their prices—because they need to.” Others aren’t sure. “I call it a fool’s gold rush,” says Swann, attributing it to a recently ended moratorium on foreclosures implemented by mortgage titans Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and honoured by many banks. The halt fooled some into believing the number of lender-owned homes had fallen into swift decline, fuelling a rebound. It was one of many recent false bottoms for Phoenix, he says: “If you read the news, we find the bottom twice a month.” Still, the speed of the city’s decline does appear to have slowed. “In the last three months, the market has dramatically changed,” says Boyle, the Calgary investor who has put up money for the Arizona Acquisition Fund. “Investors like the CBI Group and others are moving in and buying up houses.” The fact that foreign speculators are helping to stabilize the market doesn’t worry Boyle, who points to the city’s strong historical in-migration numbers as the fundamental driver. Observers see no hiccup to that growth on the horizon, in part because the recession may permanently cripple the Rust Belt, creating a vast reservoir of people with no option but to flow into the milk and honey West. But whatever CBI’s sales pitch, it’s not clear that investors like Buffett or Watsa, contrarian or no, are rushing to buy Sunbelt homes. “There’s a reason there are foreclosures, people: it’s because there was too much housing,” says Don Campbell, author of Real Estate Investing in Canada, who points to a February U.S. Census Bureau report that puts the number of vacant homes in the U.S. at a massive 19 million. “There are only 19 million properties in Canada,” he says. “The equivalent of all of Canada is sitting empty in the U.S.—that’s why everything seems so cheap.” Still, Boyle thrills to his own contrarian boldness. That evening after the CBI pitch, he did meet some who remained skeptical of the proposal. “Some of them said, ‘Yeah, but what if it never recovers?’ ” recalls Boyle. “Canadians are very cautious people. And they need to be kind of pushed into something. Someone has to tell them, tap them on the shoulder and say, ‘You know, this is a really good thing to do.’ ” Swann, the rare sort of realtor who can quote Kipling and Maugham in conversation, believes in the indubitable power of the sun’s draw on the American masses—to a point. Acknowledging that in-migration has driven the Phoenix real estate market in the past, he wonders about the future. “We just went through an unprecedented boom and an unprecedented bust, and what happens after two unprecedented circumstances? The answer is: I don’t know—and anybody who tells you they do know is talking through their hat.” hostWed, 27 May 2009 20:28:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:67http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/17/2009-edmonton-transportation-effect-research-report-concludes-that-select-property-owners-will-receive.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=17http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=17&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/17/2009-edmonton-transportation-effect-research-report-concludes-that-select-property-owners-will-receive.aspxThe Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™) a Division of Cutting Edge Research Inc. is pleased to release its 2009 update to The Edmonton Transportation Effect, which details the impact of the upcoming transportation improvements, part of the government stimulus packages, on housing in Edmonton. hostWed, 27 May 2009 19:01:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:17http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/16/2009-calgary-transportation-effect-research-report.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=16http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=16&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/16/2009-calgary-transportation-effect-research-report.aspxThe Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™) a Division of Cutting Edge Research Inc. is pleased to release its latest update to The Calgary Transportation Effect, which details the impact of the upcoming transportation improvements on housing, part of the government stimulus packages, on housing in Calgary. hostWed, 27 May 2009 18:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:16http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/84/ring-road-transit-improvements-will-drive-up-home-prices-on-calgarys-fringes.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=84http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=84&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/84/ring-road-transit-improvements-will-drive-up-home-prices-on-calgarys-fringes.aspx Ring Road, Transit Improvements will Drive up Home Prices on Calgary's Fringes By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald CALGARY - House prices in select Calgary neighbourhoods, feeling the impact of upcoming transportation improvements, will get a 10 per cent to 20 per cent premium over and above what the rest of the city’s market gets in the coming years. The Real Estate Investment Network, in a report released today called The Calgary Transportation Effect, said transportation is one of the 12 key fundamentals that drive real estate values up or down. This report focuses on how the completion of the Ring Road and the expansion of the C-Train will improve accessibility to the downtown core, which in turn will raise the value of real estate that is in proximity to these transportation improvements. “Our tax dollars are being spent; this is an opportunity for average Calgarians to profit from those dollars,” said Don Campbell, the report’s lead author and president of the REIN. “When people look for a property to purchase — be it their primary residence or an investment property — they take into consideration affordability, commute times and commute costs. “If you can reduce commute and travel times to and from an area, you make that area much more desirable as a place to live, and thus an increase in demand occurs.” The report said there are three Tiers of Impact that will take place in the Calgary region. The first tier, which will see the most positive effects from the combined transportation improvements, include Saddle Ridge, Martindale, Falconridge, Taradale, Castleridge, Rocky Ridge, Tuscany, Scenic Acres, Ranchlands, Silver Springs and Hawkwood. The second tier, which will also feel positive impacts, include Coral Springs, Temple, Monterey Park, Pineridge, Abbeydale, Applewood Park, Marlborough Park, Penbrook Meadows, Bowness, Greenwood, Valley Ridge, Chapparal, McKenzie Lake and Sundance. Third tier regions will feel the ripple effect outward from the main impact areas - and these include Cochrane, Balzac and Airdrie, as well as new developments near the Ring Road. The report said that when the Ring Road and the new LRT stations are completed, communities within an 800-metre radius of these transportation improvements can anticipate a 10 per cent to 20 per cent increase in their property values. The biggest effect will be felt in older and more established neighbourhoods. “Gone are the days when you could get downtown from anywhere in Calgary in under half an hour. Accessibility to highways and the LRT is now a top priority for home buyers and renters,” said Campbell. “These transportation improvements will unleash the inherent value in these markets, such that in the future these areas will outperform the rest. If the market goes up everywhere, these areas will increase by about 10 per cent to 20 per cent more. If the values everywhere drop, these will drop by 10 per cent to 20 per cent less.” hostWed, 27 May 2009 18:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:84http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/66/hot-markets.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=66http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=66&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/66/hot-markets.aspx Hot Markets By: Wayne Karl When host George Stroumboulopoulos and producers of the CBC TV show The Hour needed an expert to put today’s real estate market in perspective, they called on a guy named Don Campbell. A Vancouver-based real estate consultant who studies the Canadian market, Campbell may not exactly be a household name. But appearing on the popular The Hour, whose audience is largely young Canadians – many of them in the first-time homebuyer demographic – in March, with another appearance tentatively scheduled for early June, Campbell simplified for many the often complex factors that influence real estate performance. Most of his research is marketed to his more than 3,100 paying members of his investment club, Real Estate Investment Network, who own about 23,000 properties worth $2.6 billion. But whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer looking to time your entry into the market, the same principles apply. It’s all about economic fundamentals: population growth, increasing average income and property affordability. Base your home-buying decision on these factors, Campbell says, and you’re off on the right foot. “Instead of falling in love with a particular property, fall in love with the potential of that property,” Campbell says. Indeed, ‘location, location, location’ is the most cited rule of thumb for buying real estate – meaning that your home’s proximity to amenities such as schools, shopping and transportation will go a long way to determining resale value. But in today’s climate, with economic uncertainty combined with seemingly weekly reports of declining home prices, you need a lot more than that. Timing of your purchase, and the information you use to guide your selection, are critical. “First-time buyers’ focus is often determined more by price than actual location,” Campbell told HomeTrader.ca. Buyers getting into the market for the first time are usually limited to a certain budget, and often adjust their choice of neighborhood or specific property accordingly.> “However, during these times of very low interest rates, location choices become more plenty for the first time buyer. The key with any purchase right now is that the buyer has at least a five-year window for ownership, they look at the future potential of the neighbourhood in which they are buying, and they negotiate the deal they want as the market is now in buyer’s territory, providing the first-time home buyer with lots of options and time to be picky on what they want to own. On the plus side for buyers are declining prices: the average price of a home in Canada (new and resale) fell 0.7% in 2008, to $303,594 from $305,822, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association. The beginning of 2009 brought even steeper declines: -11.2% in January, -8.9% in February and -7.7% in March, year over year, compared to corresponding months in 2008. As of March 2009, then, the national average home price in Canada was $288,641, meaning a lower entry point and greater affordability for first-time buyers. Listings are also up over last year, which means more choices are available when shopping. Also in buyers’ favor are low interest rates. Mortgages from Canada’s big five banks can be had for as low as 3.9% for one year, and 5.25% for five years. Compare this, for example, to a five-year closed fixed-rate mortgage from Bank of Montreal, of 6.17% in 2008, 6.69% in 1998, 12.13% in 1988 and 11.53% in 1978. So, though it may sound cliché, money has never been cheaper. Combine these factors with the coming of spring, which generally leads to a pick-up in home buying; a recent report for major realtor Re/Max which says first-time buyers are a driving force in the market more than ever; the new federal First-Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit; and news from the Conference Board of Canada that consumer confidence in April reached its highest level in seven months. It all points to what sources say is a great time to buy. “You’ve got extremely low interest rates now, and that’s one of the best things attracting the first-time buyer,” Benjamin Tal, senior economist at CIBC World Markets and another of Canada’s foremost real estate experts, told HomeTrader.ca. “At the same time, when you buy now, you have to make sure that in five years when you renew your mortgage, you will be able to pay 2 or 3 basis points higher than you pay now.” The economy is currently in an “environment of emergency,” he says, with governments in Canada and the US spending billions of dollars on economic stimulus packages to ensure this recession remains only that – a recession – and not something worse. When conditions improve, and there are already signs this is happening, interest rates are likely to rise. “Emergencies do end,” Tal says. “And when this emergency ends, you will see inflation increase, leading to rising interest rates.” So, all of this begs the question, if we accept that now is a good time to buy, where are the ‘hot’ markets? Again, Campbell and others stress that real estate is not a national or even provincial phenomenon; potential home buyers should examine the specifics – and the economic fundamentals – of prospective areas on a micro level, down to particular neighborhoods and even streets. And as any realtor and developer will tell you, nearby amenities such as schools, shopping and public transit, on top of any features of the individual property, are key factors to consider. Proximity to transportation such as highways and transit, in fact, is one of the most significant influences on property values. The federal and provincial governments are spending billions of dollars on such infrastructure improvements, leading to strong real estate performance in areas surrounding key projects. Research from the Real Estate Investment Network, in fact, shows that properties located within 500 metres of new transit stations are found to increase in value, by as much as 20%, more than those distant to it. Homes located within 800 metres show a premium of 10% to 15%. These are some of the key factors in making some of the markets mentioned below solid areas to buy in over the long term, say five to seven years, according to Campbell. “As the economy begins to return to normal, oil prices will increase, thus increasing the demand for transit,” says Campbell. “This demand will drive up properties in these 800-metre circles more than the rest of the market.” Top 5 markets in Canada Edmonton - Solid long-term economic fundamentals supported by billions in infrastructure development - Oil sands development and resulting growing population - Burgeoning condominium market Calgary - Though Alberta and the city of Calgary were among the markets hardest in by the recent downturn, the Canadian Real Estate Association says the province will also help lead the rebound in 2009 and 2010 - Strong connection to the oil and gas industry means Calgary is poised for long-term growth - As energy prices begin to rise, as Tal of CIBC expects they will in the near future, project construction in the oil patch will increase - This will all lead to a pick-up in economic activity, job growth, population influx and housing construction and sales Barrie and Orillia, Ont. - Not just cottage country any more - Growth of post-secondary institutions and other industry, plus expansion of GO Train service connecting Barrie to Toronto - Leading to growth in these formerly sleepy vacation communities Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge, Ont. - Home to two large and growing universities, a healthy technology sector, including Blackberry maker Research in Motion, and other growing industries - Lower average prices than big-city Toronto, though still within reasonable distance Hamilton - Steeltown, as it has long been known, but perhaps no more - Stroumboulopoulos registered surprise when Campbell mentioned this city on The Hour as a top potential market to buy in (and long before there was any mention of the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes potentially moving to the city). After all, US Steel recently shuttered operations there - Central to the rejuvenation is expansion of GO Train service and highway improvements - Easier for people to live in Hamilton, where home prices are cheaper, and commute to Toronto - Also supporting the growth is growing university and health care sectors Making your money work hard for you Not everyone wants or can afford to buy a home where they live, even when market characteristics are as favorable as they are now. For example, if you want to live in the downtown area of a major city and maintain that lifestyle, but your budget can’t quite support a purchase there just yet, consider buying elsewhere. “Why not have your money work for you elsewhere?” asks Don Campbell, Vancouver-based real estate consultant. For instance, you could continue to rent where you currently live, and buy a property in another city or even province which is showing economic growth, and rent it out. This affords you the opportunity to own a home, though it’s not your primary residence. Your tenants pay your mortgage, helping you build equity in the property, and you gain from any value increase down the road when you sell. hostWed, 20 May 2009 16:15:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:66http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/4/the-six-rules-to-investing-in-tropical-real-estate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=4http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/4/the-six-rules-to-investing-in-tropical-real-estate.aspx The Six Rules To Investing In Tropical Real Estate Due to the high Canadian dollar, the shrinking market in the US and the huge commissions that are paid to promoters, Canadians are currently being inundated with sales pitches for tropical real estate And let’s be honest, in the midst of another long, cold Canadian winter, the idea of owning recreational property in a tropical paradise is quite easy to be drawn into. This dream can quickly become a financial nightmare if an investor does not follow the critical 6 Rules to Investing in Tropical Real Estate. Buying out of the country requires substantially more due diligence than buying in Canada, and sadly most people do substantially less. Click Here To Download Full Article hostWed, 06 May 2009 11:53:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/1/rural-real-estate-follows-city-lower.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=1http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/1/rural-real-estate-follows-city-lower.aspx Rural Real Estate Follows City Lower Home Values By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald CALGARY - The town and country and rural residential housing market is mirroring what’s happening in the city during the first quarter of this year. MLS sales in towns outside Calgary are down by 37 per cent compared with a year ago, while the average MLS sale price has dropped by 12 per cent. The country residential market, which includes acreages, has seen sales drop by just over 51 per cent, while the average price has fallen by just over five per cent on a year-over-year basis. “That marketplace is a bit softer than what we’re seeing in the city,” said Lai Sing Louie, senior market analyst in Calgary for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. “It’s taking longer to sell in the country residential areas — almost twice as long to sell a property relative to the city. Sales are also lower in that market. There’s also downward pressure on prices. So in terms of the market balance, it’s in buyer’s market conditions. There are a lot of sellers relative to buyers.” According to recent Calgary Real Estate Board data, total sales for the first three months in towns outside Calgary were down 36.94 per cent to 623 units compared with the same period in 2008 and the average sale price dropped by 11.9 per cent to $341,601. In the country residential market, total sales fell by 51.18 per cent to 83 units, while the average sale price decreased by 5.35 per cent to $795,871. Rural land sales have also fallen in the first quarter compared with a year ago. In the first three months of this year, there were 24 rural land sales, down by 57 per cent. The average sale price was also down by 21.6 per cent to $448,117. With the growth in condominium demand in Calgary, people are choosing to make a greener decision for how they want to live, said Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada and author of three books on the real estate market. There are not a lot of condo-style options, such as high-density ones, outside of the city and some people may be thinking that it is costly — and not environmentally friendly — to drive their vehicles each day back and forth from work if they live outside Calgary. Affordability is another factor, he said. “There aren’t a lot of lower-priced properties in Cochrane or Airdrie or Okotoks because there aren’t a lot of condo-style properties available,” he said. “If you take a look at the numbers in Calgary, the first-time homebuyers are really driving and sustaining the market right now because of the ridiculously low interest rates,” said Campbell. In Calgary metro, overall sales for single-family homes in the first quarter of this year are down to 2,458, which is 34.4 per cent lower than the first three months of 2008 and the average sale price is down by 10.87 per cent to $417,187. In the condo market for the same period, sales are down by 35.9 per cent to 1,011 units, while the average sale price is off by 11.5 per cent to $275,975. Campbell said the pendulum swings more frequently in the smaller communities because they are smaller markets and the percentage change can be more volatile. The following is a comparison of some areas just outside Calgary and their residential MLS sales numbers and average sale prices for the first quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2008: n Airdrie: 157 sales, $307,403 for 2009; 268 sales, $350,496 for 2008; n Chestermere: 34 sales, $400,655 for 2009; 50 sales, $526,014 for 2008; n Cochrane: 52 sales, $354,199 for 2009; 61 sales, $450,536 for 2008; n High River: 53 sales, $327,328 for 2009; 50 sales, $315,761 for 2008; n Okotoks: 100 sales, $379,757 for 2009; 181 sales, $375,586 for 2008; n Rural Foothills M.D.: 27 sales, $684,396 for 2009; 79 sales, $797,981 for 2008; n Rural Rocky View M.D.: 48 sales, $880,885 for 2009; 77 sales, $961,704 for 2008; n Strathmore: 51 sales, $286,583 for 2009; 88 sales, $328,815 for 2008. Louie said the city is “firming up” in terms of market balance quicker than the outlying areas primarily because there are not as many transactions in the country. “In terms of how the markets have adjusted, the city area seems to be adjusting a little quicker than the outlying areas,” he said, adding that when house prices were rising in the past few years they did so quicker in the city and then that trend spread to other areas. Now the same thing is happening on the downward trend. “The surrounding areas tend to follow suit,” he said.   hostWed, 06 May 2009 11:34:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/137/free-rent-on-extended-vacations.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=137http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=137&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/137/free-rent-on-extended-vacations.aspx How to Find Someone To Take Care Of Your Home While You're On Vacation or Extended Trip! hostThu, 30 Apr 2009 15:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:137http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/65/rural-real-estate-follows-city-lower.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=65http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=65&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/65/rural-real-estate-follows-city-lower.aspx Rural Real Estate Follows City Lower By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald CALGARY - The town and country and rural residential housing market is mirroring what’s happening in the city during the first quarter of this year. MLS sales in towns outside Calgary are down by 37 per cent compared with a year ago, while the average MLS sale price has dropped by 12 per cent. The country residential market, which includes acreages, has seen sales drop by just over 51 per cent, while the average price has fallen by just over five per cent on a year-over-year basis. “That marketplace is a bit softer than what we’re seeing in the city,” said Lai Sing Louie, senior market analyst in Calgary for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. “It’s taking longer to sell in the country residential areas — almost twice as long to sell a property relative to the city. Sales are also lower in that market. There’s also downward pressure on prices. So in terms of the market balance, it’s in buyer’s market conditions. There are a lot of sellers relative to buyers.” According to recent Calgary Real Estate Board data, total sales for the first three months in towns outside Calgary were down 36.94 per cent to 623 units compared with the same period in 2008 and the average sale price dropped by 11.9 per cent to $341,601. In the country residential market, total sales fell by 51.18 per cent to 83 units, while the average sale price decreased by 5.35 per cent to $795,871. Rural land sales have also fallen in the first quarter compared with a year ago. In the first three months of this year, there were 24 rural land sales, down by 57 per cent. The average sale price was also down by 21.6 per cent to $448,117. With the growth in condominium demand in Calgary, people are choosing to make a greener decision for how they want to live, said Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada and author of three books on the real estate market. There are not a lot of condo-style options, such as high-density ones, outside of the city and some people may be thinking that it is costly — and not environmentally friendly — to drive their vehicles each day back and forth from work if they live outside Calgary. Affordability is another factor, he said. “There aren’t a lot of lower-priced properties in Cochrane or Airdrie or Okotoks because there aren’t a lot of condo-style properties available,” he said. “If you take a look at the numbers in Calgary, the first-time homebuyers are really driving and sustaining the market right now because of the ridiculously low interest rates,” said Campbell. In Calgary metro, overall sales for single-family homes in the first quarter of this year are down to 2,458, which is 34.4 per cent lower than the first three months of 2008 and the average sale price is down by 10.87 per cent to $417,187. In the condo market for the same period, sales are down by 35.9 per cent to 1,011 units, while the average sale price is off by 11.5 per cent to $275,975. Campbell said the pendulum swings more frequently in the smaller communities because they are smaller markets and the percentage change can be more volatile. The following is a comparison of some areas just outside Calgary and their residential MLS sales numbers and average sale prices for the first quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2008: n Airdrie: 157 sales, $307,403 for 2009; 268 sales, $350,496 for 2008; n Chestermere: 34 sales, $400,655 for 2009; 50 sales, $526,014 for 2008; n Cochrane: 52 sales, $354,199 for 2009; 61 sales, $450,536 for 2008; n High River: 53 sales, $327,328 for 2009; 50 sales, $315,761 for 2008; n Okotoks: 100 sales, $379,757 for 2009; 181 sales, $375,586 for 2008; n Rural Foothills M.D.: 27 sales, $684,396 for 2009; 79 sales, $797,981 for 2008; n Rural Rocky View M.D.: 48 sales, $880,885 for 2009; 77 sales, $961,704 for 2008; n Strathmore: 51 sales, $286,583 for 2009; 88 sales, $328,815 for 2008. Louie said the city is “firming up” in terms of market balance quicker than the outlying areas primarily because there are not as many transactions in the country. “In terms of how the markets have adjusted, the city area seems to be adjusting a little quicker than the outlying areas,” he said, adding that when house prices were rising in the past few years they did so quicker in the city and then that trend spread to other areas. Now the same thing is happening on the downward trend. “The surrounding areas tend to follow suit,” he said. hostTue, 14 Apr 2009 21:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:65http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/15/our-real-estate-price-obsession.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=15http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=15&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/15/our-real-estate-price-obsession.aspx Our Real Estate Price Obsession Values Dramatic ups and downs have many Calgarians riveted to real estate By Mario Toneguzzi, April 11, 2009 It has become a national obsession. And just like sports aficionados who keep a daily count of the number of goals and assists hockey players such as Jarome Iginla tally, homeowners and potential buyers are well aware of what the prices of single-family homes and condominiums are doing on a daily basis, particularly in the local real estate market. "Even 10 years ago, the obsession was not about our home prices, because we knew it was a good long-term investment," says Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada and author of three books on the real estate market. "We knew it was a very smart move to buy a piece of real estate. People understood back then that markets go up, markets go down, markets stay flat. That's what they do." The obsession comes from all the information available in newspapers, television, broadcasters and the Internet-- and the information is instantaneous. Television shows about flipping houses became popular. People started to obsess about making a quick buck. "It's changed our Canadian mentality--our North American mentality--to almost like a day-to-day experience," says Campbell, adding that when looking at the real estate market, people should not be looking through a microscope but through a telescope. "If you analyze monthly the numbers, which is microscopic analysis, it will drive you crazy--make you feel like a genius one day and a fool the next depending on what news that comes out that day," he says. The market today is just taking a breath, he says. Recently on a national television program, Campbell said the housing market was not crashing or collapsing but simply correcting itself. "The market cannot run at a sprint forever," he says. "It's just like any great athlete. You do have to rest and sometimes when it rests and you're not understanding that it is resting, it can cause fear and obsession in the marketplace. And that's what we're witnessing right now." Average sale prices for single-family homes peaked at $505,920 in July 2007 and for condos at $332,237 in May 2007, but have declined since then. The latest numbers from the Calgary Real Estate Board showed single-family home sales averaged $420,354 in March while condos averaged $284,056--both up from the previous month. Looking back, residential MLS sales in the city had an average price of $26,712 in 1973 and climbed to about $108,000 in 1981. But the market fell in the early '80s with the overall average price dipping to $80,462 in 1985. Since 1995, at $132,114, the average MLS sale price in Calgary rose every year until 2008, when the price fell to $405,267 compared with $414,066 in 2007. But in recent years, Calgary has experienced a housing boom. Average prices rose by more than $28,000 in 2005, more than $95,000 in 2006 and by nearly $70,000 in 2007. hostSat, 11 Apr 2009 17:33:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:15http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/64/real-estate-guru-shares-moneymaking-tips.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=64http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=64&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/64/real-estate-guru-shares-moneymaking-tips.aspx Real Estate Guru Shares Money-Making Tips By Pamela Fieber, Calgary Herald, The recession isn't necessarily bad news if you're looking to invest in real estate. In fact, you could say it's a great opportunity. "People think, 'oh no, I have to give up on my dream because the economy won't let me do it,' " says real estate guru Don Campbell, author of the best-selling book Real Estate Investing in Canada: Creating Wealth with the Acre System. "But just because the economy changes doesn't mean your financial goals have to change." Campbell says the number one mistake people make is speculating on real estate rather than investing in it. There is a key difference, and the goal of Campbell's book, now reissued and updated for the current economy, is to explain that difference to potential investors. "I was becoming discouraged by human nature," Campbell says during a Calgary stop to promote his new release, which will donate 100 per cent of its profits to Habitat for Humanity. "The get-rich-quick schemes and flipping of properties. I set a goal in 2001 to change the tone of the conversation in Canada about real estate." And so he did. His book has sold more than 35,000 copies, and provided more than $400,000 to Habitat for Humanity. Campbell says real estate investing is still a great way to reach a financial goal -- whether that's replacing a salary income or paying for the kids' university -- but the key is to do your homework before jumping in. In other words, don't speculate. But don't let fear hold you back either. "You're not going to put your kids through university by huddling in your basement worrying about (what happened in) 1982," he says. "The reality is, the next 18 months are going to be a roller-coaster. During a roller-coaster ride you're always freaked out. But keep in mind that roller-coaster rides always end." If you're worried about your job, that's no reason to stay out of the market. In fact, all the more reason to get into the bank and secure that loan while you have a job. "Are you going to try to get a mortgage for a cash flow property while you have a job, or after you lose your job?" he says. "And if your job sucks now, then use it to get a good credit rating." The goal, Campbell says, is that maybe with the secured mortgage (and a steady job is helpful in getting that from the bank) you may end up in a position where "your job becomes an option, not a requirement." But that doesn't happen until you have some cash flow properties. That means a property that pays you an income each month. A rental property, for example, as opposed to a speculative property that you intend to flip when the market goes up again. Never go out on a financial limb in the hopes that property values will make a huge leap, he advises. Instead, look for properties that will still pay you an income even if their value goes down. The numbers have to make sense, and Campbell's book makes the math look simple. Here are Don Campbell's top four tips for making money on real estate during a recession: 1. Have a telescopic view, not a microscopic one. hostSat, 21 Mar 2009 22:38:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:64http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/85/abbotsford-one-of-bcs-best-investments.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=85http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=85&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/85/abbotsford-one-of-bcs-best-investments.aspx Abbotsford one of B.C.'s Best Investments By Kevin Mills - Abbotsford News,March 12, 2009 2:00 PM If the uncertain economic forecast has you wondering where to invest your money, you may want to take a close look in your own backyard. Abbotsford has been ranked as the third best place in B.C. for property investments, by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN). The annual report on the Top BC Investment Towns for real estate was released this week and Abbotsford finished just behind Surrey and Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows and just ahead of fourth-place Kamloops. “Despite today’s continuing market turmoil, our research indicates that there are more buying opportunities now than in the last few years, meaning more investment options and better yields” said report lead author Don Campbell, president of REIN. The top-three ranking came as no surprise to David Hull, executive director of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. “This just seems to be another affirmation that Abbotsford is a great place to do business,” said Hull He pointed to another published report that echoed the views of the REIN findings. Canadian Business Magazine named Abbotsford as B.C.’s best place to do business two years in a row (2007-08). “All signs point towards a very successful, vibrant, growing city,” Hull added. This recognition of Abbotsford’s investment and business opportunities is, according to Hull, another example of a changing attitude towards this area. “This isn’t your sleepy FraserValley anymore. Abbotsford has 140,000 people and we keep on growing. People are starting to realize that there’s a lot more to our city than the little bit they see whisking by on the freeway,” said Hull. The 120-page REIN report, is based on the analysis of key economic fundamentals for investors and home owners across North America. According to the report, “Abbotsford has the best opportunities in the Fraser Valley. From transportation changes, to increased localized job growth focused on the Mt.Lehman corridor, to an increasing population, Abbotsford will continue to attract people from across the province. “As the transportation arteries are opened up in the Lower Mainland with the Gateway projects, Abbotsford will become an even more attractive location for manufacturing and distribution companies, bringing in higher income jobs to the region.” B.C.’s Top 10 Investment Cities: 1) Surrey 2) Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows 3) Abbotsford 4) Kamloops 5a) Dawson Creek 5b) Fort St. John 6) Kelowna 7) Comox Valley 8) Penticton 9) Vancouver 10) Prince George hostThu, 12 Mar 2009 18:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:85http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/62/kamloops-in-top-four-of-best-bc-investment-towns.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=62http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=62&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/62/kamloops-in-top-four-of-best-bc-investment-towns.aspx Kamloops in top four of best B.C. investment towns By Robert Koopmans – Kamloops Daily News, March 12, 2009 Kamloops’ property market is poised to outperform the majority of other B.C. cities in the next five to seven years, predicts a leading Canadian real estate expert. Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network, released his company’s report today listing B.C.’s top investment towns. The 120-page report looks at economic fundamentals and concludes Kamloops is the fourth best place in B.C. for investors to put their money. Surrey, Abbotsford and Maple Ridge will outperform Kamloops, but our city will do better than scores of others, including Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Kelowna, Comox Valley, Penticton, Vancouver, Prince George and Vernon. Campbell said Kamloops’ placement so high on the list came as a bit of a surprise to him and his staff. But a review of the facts shows the placement is well deserved — Kamloops has a solid economic foundation and will do well in the coming years, he said. “This is the first time we have done a full analysis on the province of B.C. — congratulations to Kamloops,” he said, adding his company has produced similar reports in other provinces for almost 17 years. Kamloops will outpace other centres for a variety of reasons, Campbell said. The city’s economy is well diversified, the market is realistically priced and local leadership is doing what needs to be done to ensure solid economic growth. Kamloops will outperform Kelowna and Vancouver because those markets are already overly inflated. Prince George falls in the ranking because of its heavy reliance on the forest industry, he said. Other factors his team looked at include projected population growth, average incomes and job creation. “Our job is to be the independent think-tank for real estate property markets. The facts and figures show (Kamloops) is No. 4.” Campbell said his staff backs up the numbers with on-the-street research. “Sometimes numbers can lie and we don’t believe numbers without going on the street,” he said. “Kamloops has a very good future ahead of it despite what seems to be going on in central B.C.” Campbell said investors, planners, businesses and governments seek out the reports because of the comprehensive nature of the research. “This will help people decide where to put their money,” he said. “A number of major businesses (use these reports) to decide where they are going to build their businesses as well.” Campbell said his company updates the reports every 18 to 24 months, or if there is a dramatic change in market conditions. “Those who are living in Kamloops right now, like the rest of the country, might be a little fearful of the market right now, but they should be proud to be living in Kamloops. “They should be proud of where the city is going to go.” Mayor Peter Milobar said such news is welcome. He added Kamloops’ high placement does not come as a big shock to him, as he has long believed what the report’s authors have just proclaimed. The City will continue to do what it can to ensure Kamloops is recognized as a good place to invest, he said, by creating a sense of stability in uncertain times. “Investors look for stability. If they see a local government being thoughtful and consistent in what it does, it makes a difference,” he said. hostThu, 12 Mar 2009 18:01:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:62http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/61/surrey-best-real-estate-buy-in-bc.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=61http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=61&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/61/surrey-best-real-estate-buy-in-bc.aspx Surrey Best Real Estate Buy in BC March 12, 2009, Kevin Diakiw, Surrey Leader Surrey is the best place in B.C. to invest in a property, according to an independent real estate analyst. The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), released a report this week citing the top 10 places in B.C. to invest in property. REIN is a consulting company which provides expert opinion on real estate and its future. Released Thursday, the 120-page report titled Top B.C. Investment Towns is based on the analysis of key economic fundamentals for investors and homeowners across North America. The study explores the current and future prospects for real estate investment opportunities in B.C. and identifies the top-performing cities and towns in the coming decade. In particular, the report places North Surrey at the top of the good bets for real estate investment. Part of the reason is due to the proximity to transit, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Simon Fraser University's Surrey campus, and lower housing values, the report states. "Centrally located, positioned to benefit from the existing and upcoming transportation projects, and benefitting from forward focused city leaders, this area is poised to shine." Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows is listed as the second best place to invest, mostly due a major change in transportation service. Extremely poor accessibility has kept the price of real estate in the area somewhat low. With plans by TransLink and the province to improve that, real estate values will climb, the report states. Overall, report author Don Campbell believes there are some great buying prospects out there, especially in the top cities. "Despite today's continuing market turmoil, our research indicates that there are more buying opportunities now than in the last few years, meaning more investment options and better yields" said Campbell, who is also president of REIN. "We've just come out of the Tiger Woods years of real estate investing, where you won no matter what you bought," Campbell said. "Now we get back to market reality where economic fundamentals, not speculation, will once again play the key role in whether a property increases in value or drops." He notes that the downturn means new possibilities for home buyers. "Today's market correction provides buying opportunities for home owners and investors, however only in select regions of the province," Campbell said. "The years of skyrocketing prices are finally over, however, over the long term the economic fundamentals of these key regions will help their property values dramatically outperform other regions of the province." kdiakiw@surreyleader.com The Top B.C. Investment Towns report list: 1) Surrey 2) Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows 3) Abbotsford 4) Kamloops 5a) Dawson Creek 5b) Fort St. John 6) Kelowna 7) Comox Valley 8) Penticton 9) Vancouver 10) Prince George 11) Vernon hostThu, 12 Mar 2009 17:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:61http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/63/sweet-for-suites-in-surrey.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=63http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=63&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/63/sweet-for-suites-in-surrey.aspx Sweet for Suites in Surrey Sam Smith, Metro Vancouver, March 12, 2009 5:55 a.m. Surrey is turning into one suite place. According to a report released yesterday by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), B.C.’s fastest growing city is a buyer’s dream. “It’s such a large area that it has every type of housing and every demographic,” said REIN president Don Campbell. “As a homeowner or an investor, there’s a plethora of choices available.” Between 2006 and 2008, Surrey reported an increase in residential construction spending of more than $193 million to just more than $1 billion. And despite rising gang activity in the area, Campbell said he believes investments there are safe choices. “We’re looking out five to seven years, (gang) problems are one of those short-term issues that will get cleaned up,” he said. Projects in that time period include the four-lane South Fraser Perimeter Road coming from Delta and the new Golden Ears Bridge in Langley. According to Campbell, this will help unclog the Port Mann Bridge, allowing Surrey to be more easily accessible. “Right now it’s kind of stuffed up.”  B.C.’s top real-estate investments • 1. Surrey • 2. Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows • 3. Abbostford • 4. Kamloops • 5. Dawson Creek  hostThu, 12 Mar 2009 15:45:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:63http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/60/city-real-estate-good-bet-report-says.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=60http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=60&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/60/city-real-estate-good-bet-report-says.aspx City real estate good bet, report says Written by Mark Nielsen – Prince George Citizen, Wednesday, March 11, 2009 A real estate consultant is rating Prince George the 10th best place in B.C. to invest. The city's move toward economic diversification makes Prince George worth looking at, says the Real Estate Investment Network in its report, "Top B.C. Investment Towns," released today. The report also says investors need to do their homework. "Prince George could become one of the stars of the B.C. economy," say report authors Don Campbell, Melanie Reuter and Allyssa Epp. "However, investors must exercise extra caution when investing and ensure they are not investing based on opinion or speculation." Prince George made the list in part because of efforts to become less dependent on the forest industry and plenty of credit is given to Initiatives Prince George for the trend. "A forward-thinking economic development office has seen the necessity in diversifying Prince George’s economy beyond forestry, and businesses are beginning to pay attention to Prince George, with more retail companies expanding to the city’s market," the authors say. "As more people come to see the benefits of living in the region, the trend will continue. Prince George is a city that is destined to see future growth." The possibility of more mining development, extension of the airport runway, the opening of CN Rail's intermodal terminal and the container port in Prince Rupert are listed as examples of the move toward diversification. The presence of UNBC also plays a role in part because it provides a place where people can seek higher education, particularly in tough economic times, and in part because students need places to rent.   Prince George failed to rank any higher because forestry continues to be a worry thanks to the U.S. housing crisis, the decline in housing starts in the Canadian market and the proliferation of the mountain pine beetle, which not only kills the tree but makes them harder to mill. "This economic transition is not an overnight phenomenon," the authors said.   "Investors in this region will battle with tenant turnover, selecting the right part of town in which to own, and the inevitable cycles that an economic transition brings over the coming years." Surrey was rated the top place to invest, followed by Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows, Abbotsford, Kamloops, Dawson Creek-Fort St. John, Kelowna, Comox Valley, Penticton, Vancouver, Prince George and Vernon. Based in Calgary, REIN describes itself as "Canada's leading real estate research, education, and consulting organization for the last 17 years." hostWed, 11 Mar 2009 17:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:60http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/59/bcs-top-10-growth-towns.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=59http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=59&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/59/bcs-top-10-growth-towns.aspx B.C.’s Top 10 Growth Towns Surrey, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford lead the way for investors By Gordon Hamilton, Vancouver Sun, March 11, 2009 Despite a recession, declining home prices and slowing real estate sales, there are still towns in British Columbia that have the fundamentals in place for future growth, according to a survey released Wednesday by a real estate investing network. The survey, called Top B.C. Investment Towns, names Surrey as the best place to invest, based on its rapid growth, high renter population and easy access to transportation corridors. Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows takes the No. 2 spot. It is expected to be “the place to live for lifestyle” once TransLink and Gateway infrastructure projects are completed. Abbotsford is in third place for its rapid growth and diversifying regional economy. The survey is by the Real Estate Investment Network, a trademark-protected organization headed by real estate consultant Don Campbell. The survey forecasts that the recession will last until mid-2010 and “will provide an excellent buying opportunity for property buyers who focus their research on the economic fundamentals of key regions of the province.” In an interview, Campbell said he is taking a five-to-nine-year perspective in his look at the best regions in the province to buy real estate. The survey examines all major B.C. towns based on 12 factors — from economic development to demographics — and measures them against provincial averages. “We try to identify regions that are going to have long-term stability, even during what we are going through right now; and where the short-term problems are,” Campbell said. For the top three towns, “the big impact is going to be the Gateway Program,” he said. The survey lists fundamentals considered key in each town in the top-10 list. For the top three, Surrey, Maple Ridge and Abbotsford, it is growth, transportation links and diversity. The remaining seven are: 4. Kamloops: A vacation destination and transportation hub, Kamloops is attracting new business and industry. A decline in housing starts coupled with a low vacancy rate “will drive up demand for all types of properties in town.” 5. Dawson Creek and Fort St. John: Oil and gas exploration will have “dramatic effects” on the local economy. Dawson Creek’s fundamentals are its proximity to Alberta and natural gas resources. In Fort St. John, oil and gas will drive growth as long as prices remain profitable. However, energy price cycles will put pressure on housing, calling for an understanding of smaller markets and energy demand cycles. 6. Kelowna: Serving a trading area of 450,000 people, Kelowna is attracting business and recreation investment. Despite a slower real estate market, rental revenues are high, providing opportunities for investors. 7. Comox Valley: An armed forces base provides economic stability and an airport providing service to Calgary and Edmonton is attracting buyers who choose the region for its lifestyle. The slow real estate market means cash flow will be difficult to achieve, so choosing the right property counts. 8. Penticton: Tourism and agriculture are expected to continue growing. Strong population growth will drive demand for both rentals and home purchases. 9. Vancouver: The Olympics will increase the city’s business profile. The focus for investors should be on cash flow; speculators may wait a long time for prices to go up. 10. Prince George: Its diversity makes it better suited to weather the economic storm in the forest industry. Rail links through Prince Rupert to the Pacific ensure future growth. Campbell said he is not advising investors try to buy at the bottom of the market; it’s too difficult to predict. Further, he said other factors, such as interest rates, need to be taken into account. As prices bottom out and start up, interest rates are also likely to go up, making monthly payments higher. The validity of such surveys depends heavily on the different expectations people have about what is going to happen to the economy as a whole, said Tsur Somerville, director of the centre for urban economics and real estate at the University of B.C.’s Sauder School of Business. He also said that small markets are not as liquid an investment as larger markets and can be more volatile. “It’s not necessarily going to be the best thing for everybody and that’s a separate question from whether now is the best time to buy.” “When you are investing in these towns you are investing in their future and in their growth,” he said. According to its website, the Real Estate Investment Network is an exclusive membership program “dedicated to educating its members about how, where and when to buy Canadian real estate.” hostWed, 11 Mar 2009 17:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:59http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/14/top-bc-investment-town-real-estate-research-released.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=14http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=14&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/14/top-bc-investment-town-real-estate-research-released.aspx BC's Top Investment Towns Named For 2009 National Independent Real Estate Research Company Releases Finding of BC Economic Analysis "Surrey is the Number One place to invest in BC" Mar. 10th - The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™), Canada's leading real estate research, education, and consulting organization for the last 17 years, is pleased to release its report on the Top BC Investment Towns for real estate investment. The 120-page report, titled Top BC Investment Towns, is based on the analysis of key economic fundamentals for investors and home owners across North America.    Top BC Investment Towns analyzes the current and future prospects for real estate investment opportunities in BC, and identifies the top regions that will outperform in the coming decade. REIN™'s findings are based on in-depth research, analysis of the latest statistics, economic and social trends, and on-the-ground reports from REIN™'s research staff and members.   Today's Market Turmoil means Opportunity for Investors & First Time Home-Buyers "Despite today's continuing market turmoil, our research indicates that there are more buying opportunities now than in the last few years, meaning more investment options and better yields" said report lead author Don R. Campbell, REIN™ President and author of the best-selling books Real Estate Investing in Canada and 97 Tips For Real Estate Investing.    "We've just come out of the Tiger Woods years of real estate investing, where you won no matter what you bought.  Now we get back to market reality where economic fundamentals, not speculation, will once again play the key role in whether a property increases in value or drops.  Today's market correction provides buying opportunities for home owners and investors, however only in select regions of the province. The years of skyrocketing prices are finally over, however, over the long term the economic fundamentals of these key regions will help their property values dramatically outperform other regions of the province." The Top BC Investment Towns report list: 1) Surrey 2) Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows 3) Abbotsford 4) Kamloops 5a) Dawson Creek 5b) Fort St. John 6) Kelowna 7) Comox Valley 8) Penticton 9) Vancouver 10) Prince George 11) Vernon Surrey on Top of the list When reviewing Surrey's economic fundamentals, we see an area going through a positive transition. Others have taken notice as well, as we are witnessing an increase in population and business growth.  Surrey has experienced tremendous growth and the trend looks to continue for many years to come due to its location, relative affordability and transportation changes. Because of the size and diversity of the city, it is impossible to lump the whole region into one category.  However some neighbourhoods such as Surrey Central are far more viable for investing due to the proximity to transit, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Simon Fraser University Surrey campus, and lower housing values.  Centrally located, positioned to benefit from the existing and upcoming transportation projects, and benefitting from forward focused city leaders, this area is poised to shine. Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows will benefit tremendously from increased housing values due to transportation projects This region has been hampered by poor transportation infrastructure for decades. Thus, property values and population growth have been lower historically than other areas located similar distances from the downtown core.  Once all of the Translink/Gateway Project components are completed, Maple Ridge will be among the most accessible regions in the Lower Mainland; this will drive demand for both residential and commercial/industrial property and because it has some of the lowest average priced real estate in the Lower Mainland this demand is poised to drive up both property values and rent. A decade from now, as the transition takes hold, this area will become known as "The Lower Mainland's Place To Live For Lifestyle." Abbotsford has the best opportunities in the Fraser Valley From transportation changes, to increased localized job growth focused on the Mt. Lehman corridor, to an increasing population, Abbotsford will continue to attract people from across the province.  As the transportation arteries are opened up in the Lower Mainland with the Gateway projects, Abbotsford will become an even more attractive location for manufacturing and distribution companies, bringing in higher income jobs to the region. The "City in the Country" will go through the inevitable growing pains as diversification continues; however, there is no stopping Abbotsford from maturing into the city it can be, both economically and as 'a great place to live.' It's important to note that real estate investors must perform detailed research on each town's specific fundamentals and neighbourhoods prior to investing. The full 120-page report is available for $59.97 from the REIN™ office by phone at 888-824-7346 or email info@reincanada.com. hostTue, 10 Mar 2009 17:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:14http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/86/buyers-market.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=86http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=86&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/86/buyers-market.aspx Book says real estate always a good long-term investment February 25, 2009 NICOLE MCLAWS SUN MEDIA For long-term investment purposes, you can't beat real estate -- even in today's economy. According to Don R. Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network and author of Real Estate Investing in Canada 2.0, it's always the right time to buy, as long as investors do their homework. "People need to be realistic," he says. "The last three years in Alberta have been the Tiger Woods years of real estate. No matter what you did, you won, but that can't sustain forever." Indeed, the bloom is off the rose in Calgary's real estate market today, with many buyers hesitant about putting their money where their mouth is. Campbell, however, says that hesitation is unfounded, as "the book is designed to work in hot or cold markets." And Alberta, he says, is one market that won't remain cool for long. "Alberta still has the three things the world is going to need when the recovery hits. It has food, fuel and fertilizer and those are the things the world needs and needs in abundance," Campbell says. "This next 18 months will feel like an emotional and economic roller coaster, but if you're realistic, you'll find you can make money in an up market, a down market or a flat market." What it starts with is accepting that real estate investing is not for everyone. While it's bound to make money over the long term, people looking to make a quick buck are sure to be disappointed. "Look at your financial goals," Campbell says. "Think about what you really, really want with your money and once you've figured that out, go to the next level. What investment will let you have that freedom? For 75 percent of people, it's a piece of real estate." The reason, he says, is it's the only investment that is controlled by the investor. "You can add value by doing light renovations, by making it more energy-efficient, by increasing the rent," Campbell says. "You have direct impact over what the property is going to do over five or 10 years. "If you have a window of less than five years, though, real estate is not for you. Real estate is not get rich quick --it's a business, a long-term outlook." Ideally, he says, the market should be neither too hot, nor too cold, and should be increasing by 6% annually. However, he adds, in economies where things aren't perfect, it's still possible to find the right property. All it takes is a little legwork, know-how and patience. "The book forces you not to buy poor pieces of property," Campbell says. Real Estate Investing in Canada 2.0 is available on amazon.ca as well as major book stores in Calgary, with all proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity. hostWed, 25 Feb 2009 18:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:86http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/58/edmonton-still-no-1-for-realestate-investing-author-says.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=58http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=58&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/58/edmonton-still-no-1-for-realestate-investing-author-says.aspx Edmonton still No. 1 for real-estate investing, author says Economic slump seen as temporary setback February 24, 2009 Bill Mah The Edmonton Journal Homes in areas close to the ongoing extension of the LRT line along 111th Street could outperform the rest of the local real estate market by 10 to 20 per cent, says Don Campbell, author of Real Estate Investing in Canada 2.0.Photograph by: Rick MacWilliam, The Journal, The Edmonton Journal It was last August when real estate author and consultant Don Campbell crowned Edmonton the best place in North America to invest in residential real estate. Since then, the price of oil has plunged, the Alberta government has predicted a billion-dollar deficit and the city's housing market has seen starts, prices and sales fall. So is Edmonton still the best place to invest in residential real estate?   "Absolutely, it is," he said Monday during a visit to Edmonton from Vancouver. "There's no way the world can continue to afford $30 and $40 oil. ... Eventually, within 18 or 24 months, we're going to see the market come back to something that's more normal." Campbell is author of Real Estate Investing in Canada 2.0 and president of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), a business that offers training to its members on real estate investing. Last summer, a REIN report ranked Edmonton as the best place to invest in residential real estate, followed by Calgary, Red Deer, St. Albert and Grande Prairie. Devon placed ninth and Sturgeon and Strathcona counties tied at 10th. The list was compiled from a survey of statistical and demographic data from Statistics Canada, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., Multiple Listing Service and other sources. "That being said, we were so superhot here that the pendulum moved so quickly and has gone too far the other way. Like all economic pendulums, it comes back towards the norm and we'll start to see that pendulum start to swing a little bit more for Edmonton's sake. Right now, if you're focusing on yields, it's still the best place." He said that Edmonton will top the list for the next five to 10 years, and with mortgage rates "ridiculously low" and likely to drop further, savvy investors could look like geniuses several years from now. Campbell cautioned against trying to predict when the market will hit bottom "because you'll never hit it," especially when he's predicting up to two years of roller-coaster economic news. He said investors should realize that certain parts of Edmonton's housing market will do better than others because of improvements to transportation. Homes in areas that will benefit from the ongoing extension to the LRT line along 111th Street could outperform the market by 10 to 20 per cent, he said. In other studies, Campbell said, values rose for properties within 800 metres of new rapid-transit stations or access to major highway improvements. Plans to extend the Anthony Henday ring road will also improve the demand for nearby homes, he said. Another REIN report lists Parkallen, Belgravia, McKernan, Twin Brooks, Ermineskin and Sky Rattler as neighbourhoods that will gain the most -- both from the LRT extension and from the Henday. But other areas also stand to benefit in the future, Campbell said. For investors with a 10-year window, Campbell says the northeast quadrant is "going to be the biggest winner" from the ring road because prices in that area are relatively low. "Once the ring road opens, the demand will increase, and even if one of those upgraders goes ahead in the Fort Saskatchewan region, that's equivalent to the number of jobs that it took to build the Hoover Dam and we saw what that did to the southwest United States during the Depression." In a note of caution, Campbell said condo buyers should be wary of rushing to buy a piece of undeveloped property. "We need to be cognizant that there are an awful lot of new condos coming onto the market, not just in Edmonton, but in Calgary and Vancouver. "Please don't line up to buy a piece of property," Campbell said. hostTue, 24 Feb 2009 18:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:58http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/75/the-gta-transportation-effect.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=75http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=75&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/75/the-gta-transportation-effect.aspx The GTA Transportation Effect The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is undergoing a 12 year plan to fund 52 transit projects. This Program, called “MoveOntario 2020" is a major government undertaking that covers much of southern Ontario. However, for the scope of this report we will be discussing the impact on real estate values in the GTA and Barrie region. Future reports will discuss other more outlying regions that will be affected by the Move 2020 Program. Here are the highlights of the research: Transportation changes announced and underway in the GTA will deliver a 10%–20% enhancement of real estate values in the regions most affected. In the future, these areas will outperform the rest of the region. If the market goes up everywhere, these areas will increase by about 10%–20% more. If the GTA values drop, these will drop by 10%–20% less. Distances are now measured in minutes - not kilometers. With the dramatic increase in the price of gasoline, choices will increasingly be influenced by time and accessibility. Values in older and more established neighborhoods are impacted more significantly than in newer developments. This value impact is felt most strongly three years after a transit station is opened. Read The whole report by Clicking Here hostTue, 10 Feb 2009 19:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:75http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/72/how-the-pine-beetle-could-devastate-the-bc-real-estate-market.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=72http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=72&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/72/how-the-pine-beetle-could-devastate-the-bc-real-estate-market.aspx How The Pine Beetle Could Devastate The BC Estate Market • Canada is facing an unprecedented attack from the mountain pine beetle (MPB), Dendroctonus ponderosae. British Columbia has suffered the majority of the wrath from this tiny forest pest; however, Alberta may be facing the same epidemic over the next few years. • The beetles are not following historical behaviors and are attacking pines 50 years younger than usual. Therefore, economic analyses to date may underestimate impacts. • The federal and provincial governments have committed monies to mitigate the impact of the beetle, but is it too little, too late?  • By 2013, the provincial Ministry of Forests predicts the mountain pine beetle will destroy 80 percent of the marketable pine in the central and southern Interior forests. Half of the pine will likely be gone by the end of 2007. • Not every tree will be killed! Many pine forests consist of mixed stands and others have new trees coming up from the understory.  • Broken down by province, British Columbia is the leading exporter of forest products in Canada at $13.7 billion.  • Salvage operations are expected to cost thousands per hectare and as of January 2007, 9.2 million hectares were under red attack. Download FULL Report Here hostTue, 03 Feb 2009 12:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:72http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/145/boom-town.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=145http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=145&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/145/boom-town.aspxOver the past two years, the real estate market in Western Canada has boomed as oil revenue and demand blows out the housing inventory in Calgary and Edmonton. Now the high prices in these large cities have started to drive up housing costs in second-tier cities. In part one of ‘Boom towns’, Wayne Karl examines the trends, infrastructure and economic climate of the west as it relates to the property market. In parts two and three in upcoming issues, he’ll look at the central and eastern Canadian marketshostTue, 03 Feb 2009 08:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:145http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/144/working-with-realtors.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=144http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=144&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/144/working-with-realtors.aspxSometimes finding the perfect Real Estate Realtor can take a bit of time, but when you find one, they will be worth their weight in gold.hostMon, 02 Feb 2009 08:27:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:144http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/142/hot-real-estate-topics-of-the-summer-2008.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=142http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=142&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/142/hot-real-estate-topics-of-the-summer-2008.aspxSuddenly it seems everyone you meet at a summer BBQ is a real estate expert and they want to share with you all of their extensive knowledge about how the world will end. If you have seen the Lotto commercial with the two snobby 'rich' people talking about what to wear at a BBQ and what to speak about you will understand that the ad is funny because it has a base of truth to it.hostFri, 07 Nov 2008 13:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:142http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/57/edmonton-tops-calgary-for-housing-investment.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=57http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=57&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/57/edmonton-tops-calgary-for-housing-investment.aspx Edmonton tops Calgary for housing investment Mario Toneguzzi Calgary Herald Wednesday, August 27, 2008 CALGARY - Edmonton tops Calgary as the best place to invest in the residential real estate market, according to a report by the Real Estate Investment Network. Alberta's Top Ten Investment Towns report says that although Edmonton's market is going to begin performing closer to historic norms, "the good news is that Edmonton's historic norms will be at, or near the top of performance for all of Canada, both economically and in the re-sale and rental housing sectors." Edmonton leads the list followed by Calgary, Red Deer, St. Albert, and Grande Prairie. There are actually 13 locations cited in the report and they also include in descending order Lethbridge, Fort McMurray, Airdrie, Cochrane, Sylvan Lake, Lacombe, Devon, and Sturgeon & Strathcona Counties. The report says Calgary has just experienced one of its best economic and real estate periods in Canadian history and ran neck and neck with Edmonton for the number one spot on the list. "In 2008, the (Calgary) market is making a predictable (albeit soft) correction resulting in slightly more affordable housing compared to recent years passed," says the report. "It was economically impossible for the market to continue at the pace at which it was heading and now finds itself adjusting to market realities. This adjustment period, as the market searches for its new foundation from which to build, should continue into 2009 when the provincial economy is poised for another growth spurt." REIN's previous top 10 list had Edmonton first followed by Grande Prairie and Calgary. The REIN report says a focus on the reality of the economics behind the Calgary market today is critical at this juncture and it will be important for investors and homeowners to pay close attention to the fundamentals supporting the market "while not getting caught up in headlines and multitude of opinions that inevitably circulate during market adjustment periods." "If there were no strong economic fundamentals supporting the market, it would be a good thing to be afraid," said the report. "However, when you study the long-term strength you will be able to relax and not let those from outside the country take up all of the good deals and look like geniuses five years from now." Provincially, "Alberta's economy is as good as it gets," said the report, with high energy prices, rapid population growth, low unemployment, an abundance of jobs, and improved infrastructure. mtoneguzzi@theherald.canwest.com TOP ALBERTA RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TOWNS 1. Edmonton 2. Calgary 3. Red Deer 4. St. Albert 5. Grande Prairie 6a. Lethbridge 6b. Fort McMurray 7. Airdrie 8a. Cochrane 8b. Sylvan Lake 9a. Lacombe 9b. Devon 10. Sturgeon & Strathcona Counties Source: Real Estate Investment Network © Calgary Herald 2008 hostFri, 26 Sep 2008 16:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:57http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/56/city-real-estate-no-1.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=56http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=56&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/56/city-real-estate-no-1.aspx City real estate No. 1 Report cites real-estate investment performance in resale, rental markets Bill Mah The Edmonton Journal Thursday, August 28, 2008 Looking for the best place in the world to invest in real estate? If you live in Edmonton, you don't have to go far, says a new report Top Ten Towns Alberta released today by a real estate author and analyst. Edmonton tops the list and four of its neighbouring communities follow close behind -- St. Albert at fourth, Devon tied at ninth and Sturgeon and Strathcona Counties tied at 10th of the best places in Alberta to make money in residential real estate based on long-term potential. The top 10 list actually has 13 areas. Calgary trailed Edmonton in second place. "Once again, Edmonton clearly deserves to take the No. 1 spot on the list," writes Don Campbell in his latest issue of Top Ten Alberta Investment Towns. Campbell is a real estate consultant, author and president of Real Estate Investment Network. "Edmonton remains at the top of all lists of best places in which to invest, whether you are talking provincial, national or worldwide." The list is compiled from a survey of statistical and demographic data from sources such as Statistics Canada, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Multiple Listing Service, government and economic development offices. Despite a cooled-down real estate market, strong economic fundamentals keep Edmonton in the top spot that it's held for six consecutive reports, he said. "The 'Tiger Woods' years are finally over and the market is going to begin performing closer to historic norms. "The good news is that Edmonton's historic norms will be at, or near, the top of performance for all of Canada both economically and in the resale and rental housing sectors." Campbell said the current slowdown in Edmonton may worry some people, but "the housing market had to take a breath as it just could not continue at its rapid clip. Economic diversity provides economic stability, meaning Edmonton is no longer prone to major upward or downward economic swings; this type of stability is what long-term real estate investors are seeking." St. Albert came in fourth. Campbell said the city is shedding its bedroom-community image to become an employment centre and is poised for another growth spurt this decade.   "If consistently low vacancy rates, high rents and strong property-value increases, with a location in a strategically situated city surrounded by a major job base ... then St. Albert fits the bill," the report said. Devon, which tied for ninth with Lacombe, offers proximity to Edmonton, Nisku, Leduc and Edmonton International Airport along with small-town living and real estate prices, the report said. "Its location ... has been a boon to both real estate investors and homeowners." Strathcona and Sturgeon Counties tied for 10th place as centres of major refinery, upgrader and oil services. "As the petro boom continues, so will the land boom across these two counties. And even if only a couple of the proposed refineries begin construction north of Fort Saskatchewan, watch the property demand hit new unseen heights." The report is equally effusive in praising the province for its real estate investment climate. "Fundamentally speaking Alberta's economy is as good as it gets. High energy prices, rapid population growth, low unemployment, an abundance of jobs, improved infrastructure, and affordable housing costs translate into Alberta still being the No. 1 place in Canada -- if not the world -- in which to invest," said the report. bmah@thejournal.canwest.com   THE TOP 10 1. Edmonton 2. Calgary 3. Red Deer 4. St. Albert 5. Grande Prairie 6a. Lethbridge 6b. Fort McMurray 7. Airdrie 8a. Cochrane 8b. Sylvan Lake 9a. Lacombe 9b. Devon 10. Sturgeon and Strathcona counties.   Source: Real Estate Investment Network © The Edmonton Journal 2008 hostFri, 26 Sep 2008 16:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:56http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/165/eliminate-tenants-from-your-life-to-change-your-paradigm.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=165http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=165&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/165/eliminate-tenants-from-your-life-to-change-your-paradigm.aspxWe are about to change the paradigm of landlord and tenant relationships. The time has come for us as investors to start to understand that the business we are in is actually a business, and is no different from any other business out there.hostTue, 16 Sep 2008 16:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:165http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/154/important-dos-and-donts-for-todays-market.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=154http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=154&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/154/important-dos-and-donts-for-todays-market.aspxRecently I was asked for some do's and don'ts to being a successful real estate investor for a radio interview and it was an interesting exercise to grab all of these thoughts together.hostTue, 16 Sep 2008 16:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:154http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/139/other-costs-to-be-aware-of-when-you-buy.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=139http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=139&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/139/other-costs-to-be-aware-of-when-you-buy.aspxThis is a list of possible extra costs involved in buying a home. Some of them are one-time costs and others, such as condominium maintenance fees and property insurance, will be ongoing monthly expenses. The good news is that not all of these costs may apply in your circumstances.hostWed, 13 Aug 2008 17:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:139http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/153/rental-properties-down-payment-options.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=153http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=153&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/153/rental-properties-down-payment-options.aspxOver the past few years I have consulted with hundreds of Real Estate Investors and have seen a wide variety of mortgage scenarios. When sitting down with these clients to map out a game plan or course of action to attain their real estate goals, the single most common question I get from those investors is how to make a limited amount of equity stretch over a maximum number of investment properties.hostWed, 13 Aug 2008 16:53:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:153http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/143/the-secrets-to-writing-classified-ads.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=143http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=143&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/143/the-secrets-to-writing-classified-ads.aspxA Special Edition For The Subscribers Of The Official REIN™ Canada Web Site! Welcome to a special edition of the Don R. Campbell’s “Results Only” Marketing E-letter a newsletter devoted solely to helping you get better results in your business and real estate. Each issue gives you SPECIFIC, STEP-BY-STEP actions you can take to vastly improve your marketing results.hostWed, 13 Aug 2008 16:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:143http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/162/where-to-get-the-money-even-if-you-are-bankrupt-and-broke.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=162http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=162&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/162/where-to-get-the-money-even-if-you-are-bankrupt-and-broke.aspxWhen I started investing in real estate in 1982, I thought you had to have money. I was working a job and was broke. Since then, I have learned that you don't need money, credit, or a steady job to do this type of investing. Of course, having a little cash wouldn't hurt, but I know some of my readers don't have any I so this article is for you. Mortgage Brokers and Short Term Money.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 21:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:162http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/147/the-power-within.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=147http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=147&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/147/the-power-within.aspxI was sitting in the back of a Chicago cab discussing business with Ray Rach. Upon overhearing our conversation, John, the cab driver, interrupted and began telling us his experiences with real estate.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 21:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:147http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/159/magic-words-that-make-millions.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=159http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=159&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/159/magic-words-that-make-millions.aspxI've just finished reading (for the second time) a book called Magic Words That Bring You Riches, authored by my good friend Ted Nicholas. Ted has sold over 200 million dollars worth of information products worldwide by direct marketing. Over the years, he put together a collection of "magic words" to get people to do things they ordinarily wouldn't do.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 20:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:159http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/157/get-out-of-your-comfort-zone-make-real-money.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=157http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=157&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/157/get-out-of-your-comfort-zone-make-real-money.aspxEveryone has a comfort level in which they live and work. That level is determined by several factors and can be changed with practice and time. We have a choice of what we do each day, how we spend our time and how much money we make.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 19:45:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:157http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/175/it-takes-money-to-make-money-and-otherbig-lies.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=175http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=175&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/175/it-takes-money-to-make-money-and-otherbig-lies.aspxWhoever said it takes money to make money was someone trying to justify why they’re broke. It does not take money to make money, and I’ll prove it. I’ll give you a step by step plan to buy and sell a house, even if you’re absolutely broke, have a negative net worth, no job, no friends, no credit and just got pardoned from the state prison. The truth is, if you can’t make money without money, you can’t make money with money!hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 19:39:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:175http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/149/a-veteran-real-estate-investors-strategies-for-working-with-realtors.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=149http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=149&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/149/a-veteran-real-estate-investors-strategies-for-working-with-realtors.aspxHaving a quality realtor on your side is critical in the game called real estate. With this said it is important to note the word 'Quality'. How do you define a quality realtor? How do you find one? How do you maximize that relationship?hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 18:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:149http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/150/what-advice-would-you-give-a-first-time-investor.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=150http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=150&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/150/what-advice-would-you-give-a-first-time-investor.aspxIf you have a business mindset with all your dealings, you will automatically have a professional hat on’ as it were. It will also remind you to keep your emotions in check when making decisions with respect to your real estate dealings.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 18:25:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:150http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/163/top-13-habits-to-become-an-overachieving-real-estate-investor.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=163http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=163&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/163/top-13-habits-to-become-an-overachieving-real-estate-investor.aspxOver the last 13 years we have been working with some of the most successful real estate investors in Canada. This group of investors has purchased over $1.0 Billion Dollars of Canadian residential real estate using the provenACRE System as their foundation.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 18:15:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:163http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/167/the-lowest-rates-may-not-always-be-the-best-deal.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=167http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=167&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/167/the-lowest-rates-may-not-always-be-the-best-deal.aspxThe emergence of the World Wide Web has had an amazing impact on our day to day lives, especially in the way we shop.   The convenience and speed of the Internet has turned many industries into a commodity.  Searching for the lowest airline tickets and car rental rates, purchasing shares of your favourite stock or finding the lending institution with the lowest home mortgage rates has become a simple process without leaving the comfort of your home computer.  The days of obtaining sound advice and great service from your travel agent, stock broker or banker is becoming a thing of the past. The lowest price seems to be the only factor when consumers make major purchases or financial decisions.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:167http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/161/insights-of-overachieving-investors.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=161http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=161&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/161/insights-of-overachieving-investors.aspxThis report is the 2nd in a series that has been developed using research into the habits of overachieving real estate investors. When interviewing these overachievers, we discovered that most of them had the same pattern of habits. Habits that allowed them to deal with the obvious ups and downs of real estate -- habits that did not allow excuses to get in their way.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:161http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/176/tax-deferral-on-vendors-take-back-mortgages.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=176http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=176&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/176/tax-deferral-on-vendors-take-back-mortgages.aspxThe vendor can only defer a portion of the Capital Gains taxes if he takes a vendor take back mortgage. How does this work? Well, you can elect to defer the taxes on the ratio of the portion monies collected to the total capital gains over a maximum of 5 years with 20% of the profit in each year.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:176http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/146/summer-vacation-home.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=146http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=146&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/146/summer-vacation-home.aspxMy wife and I were driving up to Penticton the other day for her Grad Reunion. I love the Okanagan but have lived virtually all of my life in Vancouver. My wife, needless to say, being an Okanagan gal, often finds herself pining for the sun drenched days of her childhood on the shores of Skaha Lake. This usually occurs on one of our ubiquitous rainy days in Vancouver.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:146http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/160/subprime-crisis-what-subprime-crisis.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=160http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=160&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/160/subprime-crisis-what-subprime-crisis.aspxAs the credit market tightens and the real story begins to emerge, we’re starting to see who’s been exposing themselves to unhealthy levels of risk and who, by playing the game conservatively, will end up happy and fully clothed as the tide rolls out.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:160http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/164/the-psychology-of-a-successful-real-estate-investor.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=164http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=164&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/164/the-psychology-of-a-successful-real-estate-investor.aspxOver the last 13 years, we have taught thousands of people the secrets and strategies of successful real estate investing. And, we are proud to say, that during that time many of our students created success more quickly and easily than we ever did.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:10:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:164http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/172/should-you-incorporate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=172http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=172&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/172/should-you-incorporate.aspxGenerally speaking, you need to incorporate if you are running an active business and making at least $30,000 per year. A corporation allows you the flexibility to defer income, manage your personal tax brackets and limit legal liability where there are no personal guarantees.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:57:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:172http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/168/rental-listing-websites-an-increase-in-visitors.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=168http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=168&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/168/rental-listing-websites-an-increase-in-visitors.aspxMarketing and advertising are critical at all times of the year for landlords. However, the big question is; ‘Am I making the most of it?’ If you have a vacancy problem there could be many symptoms contributing to your situation but the first and easiest thing to look at is your marketing. More specifically: Is the advertising you’re doing making the phone ring?hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:168http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/170/recommended-real-estate-books-for-reading.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=170http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=170&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/170/recommended-real-estate-books-for-reading.aspxContinually educating yourself, and exposing yourself to quality ideas is critical in any business, especially real estate. However, there is a lot of 'poor' information out there that can be a distraction... and in fact could be financially harmful.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:36:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:170http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/152/real-estate-market-thoughts.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=152http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=152&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/152/real-estate-market-thoughts.aspxThese are the types of economic times where both fear and greed often take control of a marketplace. It is our job as Real Estate Investors to ensure that we do NOT get caught up in the media-created fear, and separate the facts from the misinformation. It is a good time to take a deep breath and review your investment strategies, based upon the long term fundamentals.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:152http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/151/the-most-important-person-for-your-success-you.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=151http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=151&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/151/the-most-important-person-for-your-success-you.aspxYes, it is true, anyone can create results and do well in the real estate game, but ultimately there's only one PERSON - YOU, responsible for your own success or failure.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:151http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/166/paper-work-made-simple-for-entrepreneurs.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=166http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=166&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/166/paper-work-made-simple-for-entrepreneurs.aspxNow that you have you own business, how do you organize your paperwork? Well, the secret is not to do any of it yourself - just organize and delegate. The objective of organizing your paperwork is to be able to retrieve it at a moment's notice. You want the right document in your hand now! Anything else is called a mess and causes stress! It is causes stress because it is unfinished business.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:166http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/169/mortgage-101.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=169http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=169&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/169/mortgage-101.aspxThe mortgages you place on your properties can be a substantial dollar amount.  Knowing some of the rules and basics can be a substantial savings to your bottom line, and in your ability to sleep at night.  Below is a list of 3 ideas you will want to review, compiled from the perspective of a veteran Real Estate lawyer.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:169http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/174/insurance-and-my-illegal-nonconforming-suite-am-i-covered.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=174http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=174&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/174/insurance-and-my-illegal-nonconforming-suite-am-i-covered.aspxMany property investors are able to increase monthly cash-flow from a property by adding an additional suite (such as in the basement). Given the significant increase in property values, sometimes the additional suite is the only way to obtain positive cash-flow. Interestingly, many property investors develop these suites AFTER the property is acquired – and, although the investor is always worried the suite will be shut down by the municipality, the investor fails to address an equally important issue – insurance.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:174http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/148/how-to-evaluate-your-real-estate-mentor.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=148http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=148&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/148/how-to-evaluate-your-real-estate-mentor.aspxSadly, the real estate market is often manipulated by two key emotions: Hype & Fear. These two emotions are used continually by certain people within the real estate market to get you to take action. Free Seminars (which turn out to be one big sell-fest trying to get you to buy their products) what did you think, they were putting on a free event out of the goodness of their heart?hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 16:01:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:148http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/173/flipping-houses.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=173http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=173&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/173/flipping-houses.aspxFlipping houses is a business fraught with risks and is not actually investing in real estate, it is pure speculation.  Although they make it look somewhat easy on the multitude of TV shows, it really isn’t.  That is why HGTV are changing the formats of a number of these shows because the risks have recently really started to take their toll on the people in the shows.hostTue, 12 Aug 2008 15:09:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:173http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/171/financing-rental-buys.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=171http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=171&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/171/financing-rental-buys.aspxMore real estate investors are making the shift these days from buying single-family homes or condos to multi-family apartment buildings.  As an investment strategy, buying a multifamily building definitely has its benefits– the most obvious of which is that you are able to create some economies of scale by having only one property to maintain and one property manager to look after it.hostMon, 11 Aug 2008 18:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:171http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/158/5-tips-for-canadian-real-estate-investors.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=158http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=158&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/158/5-tips-for-canadian-real-estate-investors.aspxReal estate prices are still breaking records across Canada, although higher interest rates are expected to affect the affordability of the residential sector through the end of this year and in 2008. The average property is expected to rise in value by more than 10 per cent this year and more than 5 per cent in 2008, says the Canadian Real Estate Association.hostMon, 11 Aug 2008 18:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:158http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/156/choosing-and-dealing-with-an-accountants.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=156http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=156&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/156/choosing-and-dealing-with-an-accountants.aspxAccountants generally charge for their services on an hourly basis. They purchase time from their staff or themselves and sell it to clients. Unfortunately the hourly rate is not important –the value you get for your services is important. Also remember accountants are not mind readers –ask and tell them.hostMon, 11 Aug 2008 18:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:156http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/155/budgeting-renovations.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=155http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=155&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/155/budgeting-renovations.aspxRenovators can help homeowners find the funding for substantial renovations by explaining some innovative financing programs, according to mortgage brokers Peter Kinch of the Mortgage Centre, which has offices across Canada.hostMon, 11 Aug 2008 17:26:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:155http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/55/and-now-the-race-for-real-estate-begins.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=55http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=55&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/55/and-now-the-race-for-real-estate-begins.aspx And now the race for real estate begins Big money to be made where lines are going Kent Spencer The Province Tuesday, January 15, 2008 Real estate in Coquitlam and Surrey just got a whole lot pricier after the province announced three new SkyTrain lines yesterday. "It will add billions to property values," said Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network. North American studies show properties increase 20 per cent if they are within 1,000 metres of transit stations. If the property is up-zoned to high-density residential, the value jumps a further 100 per cent. Campbell has a tip for anyone owning a property near a line or thinking of buying one. "Find out where the line is going -- see if you're within 1,000 metres -- and prepare for a very fun ride," he said. "You will see the [smart money] slowly moving into that marketplace." People, he says, shouldn't buy closer than about two blocks because crime and noise become issues. They should also be prepared to wait four to five years after the stations open or to have governments change their minds altogether. SkyTrain stations all over the Lower Mainland have become magnets for apartment towers and lowrise condos; Metrotown in Burnaby is the best example of an area transformed by transit into a sea of highrises. Campbell expects the Evergreen Line in Coquitlam to have the greatest impact on values, followed by the extension of the Expo Line along King George Highway in Surrey. Those areas are less built-up than the Broadway corridor in Vancouver, where the UBC line will be located. Kitsilano prices are already sky-high. Meanwhile, NDP transportation critic Maurine Karagianis says the issue is all about land speculation. "TransLink has been given all kinds of powers to do land-purchasing. I think we're going to see some massive changes in density in these communities. Certainly, municipalities are not going to have a lot of control over that," she said. John Buker of the Rail for the Valley Campaign says the government isn't doing enough for outlying areas. "What we see is megabucks for SkyTrain in Vancouver, but no light rail for the Valley. It's completely unfair. "We're all B.C. taxpayers, but there's this double standard. Valley residents are expected to deal with constantly increasing traffic. We're asking for light rail from Vancouver to Chilliwack," he said. hostTue, 15 Jan 2008 21:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:55http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/54/global-real-estate-seminar-on-tap.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=54http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=54&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/54/global-real-estate-seminar-on-tap.aspx Visiting realtors will offer property overviews in foreign markets Ron Chalmers The Edmonton Journal Friday, January 11, 2008 EDMONTON -- Six realtors will visit Edmonton to discuss property in foreign markets from Costa Rica to Hawaii. "Rather than having my clients go to all those places, I'm bringing people here," says Re/Max realtor Rhonda Navratil, who is organizing two no-cost, no-obligation seminars. On Jan. 30, at Coast Terrace Inn, realtors will discuss investment, vacation and retirement properties in Costa Rica, Palm Springs and Kelowna. In late February or early March, a second event will feature realtors from Arizona, Las Vegas, Hawaii and possibly Belize. They will show examples of properties and prices in each location but will not be selling real estate, partnerships or time-shares, Navratil emphasizes. "It's more educational," she says. "They'll talk about the markets, the products and some ramifications of ownership and financing." After the three, 20-minute presentations at each event, audience members can meet individually with the speakers, she says. "I don't want any hard sales pitch." Navratil says she is organizing these events in response to interest expressed by clients -- and her awareness that many Edmonton residents are buying property in warm-weather destinations. "A lot of it is because of the doom and gloom in the U. S. market" which, combined with the high Canadian dollar, has made American properties more affordable, she says. Navratil cautions that Canadians must educate themselves before buying into any location that they don't know well. For example, homes in Florida may appear attractive "but hurricane insurance can cost $10,000 per year." In contrast, "Costa Rica is not on the hurricane strip," she says. "It has a stable government, and you can drink the water anywhere." Steve Blakely, president of Servus Credit Union, says prospective buyers should realize that they cannot arrange a mortgage on foreign property through an Edmonton bank or credit union. However, some people with substantial equity in their Edmonton homes have re-mortgaged those homes to get cash for a foreign-property purchase, Navratil says. Don Campbell, president of the Calgary-based Real Estate Investment Network, who will not be speaking at the seminars, says buyers of foreign property must "do their due diligence" in researching the foreign venue. "Never buy sight-unseen," he says. "In any tropical region, visit in high season but also in the worst season, so you are not enamoured by the four or five fantastic months when the rest of the year is rainy and mucky." Also, in the tropics, "know the laws of that country," Campbell says. "Can you actually own property, move in, rent, and sell?" In any exotic destination, "be sure you're paying the local price," he says, as sellers may ask more from an affluent foreigner than they could get from a local sale. Even then, don't be seduced by an apparent bargain. "Make sure you're buying not because it is cheap but because it has potential for growth," he says. "A lot of places look cheap but will be cheaper in a couple of years because the fundamentals are not there to support it." In the United States, Campbell says, "the market has $750 billion more of adjustable-rate mortgages to be reset by December 2008." As they face renewal at higher interest rates, more foreclosures will occur, "so the market will get worse before it gets better." When buying revenue property, Campbell says, investors should get solid information on vacancy rates then, rather than over-estimating the rents they will receive, "pretend you are a renter," and see how cheaply you could rent an apartment. hostFri, 11 Jan 2008 21:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:54http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/7/top-alberta-investment-towns-20062007-research-report-released.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=7http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/7/top-alberta-investment-towns-20062007-research-report-released.aspx EW RESEARCH REPORT UNCOVERS THE TOP TEN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TOWNS IN ALBERTA Best Province In Canada For Real Estate Investment Calgary, AB — October 17, 2006 — The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), Canada’s leading real estate education, research and education organization, is pleased to release its report on the Top Ten Alberta Towns for real estate investment. The 80-page report, entitled Top Ten Towns Alberta, is the result of original research compiled for REIN’s national and international membership of real estate investors during the summer and fall of 2006. Top Ten Towns Alberta analyzes the current and future prospects for real estate investment opportunities in this booming province, and identifies the ten best towns in Alberta for long-term real estate investing. REIN’s findings are based on in-depth research, analysis of the latest statistics, economic and social trends, and on-the-ground reports from REIN’s technical staff and investing membership. Edmonton is still ranked number one, Grande Prairie moves up from seventh to second, while Devon drops from second to seventh Edmonton continues to hold down the number-one spot, with the strong fundamentals created by the oil boom and a well-educated population creating the long-term investment stability and demand needed by investors. Grande Prairie has moved up six spots on Mr. Campbell’s list; it’s the second fastest-growing city in Canada and was ranked by Money Sense magazine as the fourth-best place to live in Canada (out of 108 cities). “Our detailed research into Alberta confirms that, despite recent large increases in values, it continues to be the best place in Canada in which to invest in real estate,” said Don Campbell, the report’s lead author, REIN president and author of the best-selling books Real Estate Investing in Canada and co-author of 97 Tips For Real Estate Investing. Overall, the Top Ten Towns Alberta report confirms that Alberta’s strong economy makes it the number-one province in Canada in which to invest. However, it makes the point also that there are some towns that may miss the boom altogether. Timing is critical; like any major boom, different towns will be hit at different times, with a unique impact in each location. Mr. Campbell informs investors when the boom will hit a specific town and which type of real estate will do well. The top ten list is as follows: 1. Edmonton 2. Grande Prairie 3. Calgary  4a. Red Deer 4b. Sturgeon County & Strathcona County 5a. Lacombe  5b. Sylvan Lake 6a. Okotoks  6b. High River  7a. Devon 7b. Fort McMurray  8. St. Albert  9. Cochrane  10. Lethbridge The detailed report is available to the media at no charge and to members of the public for $49.97 from the REIN office by phone at 1-888-824-7346 or email at info@albertarein.com. About the Real Estate Investment Network Founded in 1993, the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) has grown over the years to become Canada’s leading real estate research and education organization. REIN does not sell or market real estate to its members or the general public, but instead conducts objective and unbiased research, analysis and investor education. For further information on REIN, visit www.reincanada.com. If you’d like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Don Campbell, please call Melanie Tennant at 1-888-824-7346 or email info@reincanada.com. hostSat, 16 Sep 2006 17:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/53/are-condos-a-good-investment.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=53http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=53&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/53/are-condos-a-good-investment.aspx Are condos a wise investment? MONEY 401 | They can be, but you must know the lay of the land ELLEN ROSEMAN Aug. 6, 2006. 08:43 AM Is it a good time to invest in a condo apartment in Toronto? And if so, what are smart buying tips for a condo investor? Industry insiders say you have to do your homework. It's a tough time to buy since prices are rising, but rents are stable or going down. Rents for condo apartments in Toronto have been relatively flat since 2003, says Jason Mercer, a senior market analyst with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. During the same period, the prices have gone up steadily in both the new and resale market. "On average, the income-generating ability of condominium apartments has declined, making other asset classes more appealing for investors," says a CMHC condominium survey last fall. There are warning signs for the Toronto real estate market, which had its best year ever in sales of existing homes last year. "This year, we're seeing a bit of a plateau," says Mercer, who predicts that annual sales will fall by about one per cent. Meanwhile, there's a surge of new condo construction in Toronto. About 38,000 rental apartments are coming on stream and will be registered this year and in 2007. Still, Toronto is not seeing the same speculative activity as it did a decade ago. Investor-held rental condo apartments are now 18 to 19 per cent of the total market, compared to more than 30 per cent in the mid-1990s. The vacancy rate for rental condo apartments was just 0.9 per cent last year — compared to an overall 3.7 per cent vacancy rate for all rental units in Toronto. Given what could be a difficult time for condo investors, what should you be looking to buy?  Boycott big, says Brad Lamb, broker-president of Brad J. Lamb Realty Inc. "Investors should buy the smallest units in the building, anywhere from 350 to 600 square feet," says Lamb. "Tenants aren't rich and powerful. They can afford to rent the lowest common denominator." Lamb is a top condo broker, known for his eye-catching billboards across the city. His website says he sold more than 1,300 condo units last year for $400 million. He has a few rules for investors, starting with the size of the down payment. "You should always put 25 per cent down. If less than that, you're speculating," he says. How much income do you expect the rental unit to generate each year? That's gross income, not net income. Multiply the gross income by 11. That will give you the maximum price to pay. "The factor I use used to be 10, but that doesn't work any more," he says. Suppose you figure a condo will generate $1,400 a month or $16,800 a year. Multiply by 11 and you get a top purchase price of $184,800. You should aim to earn a 10 per cent return on your invested capital, he says. Suppose you buy a $180,000 condo unit and put down 25 per cent, or $45,000 (your invested capital). Your goal is to clear $4,500 a year (your net income after expenses). Condos that meet these criteria are not the easiest thing to find in Toronto, he says. "You have to hook up with the right real estate brokers. If you're a loyal client, they'll get you into properties before the public do. It's much like getting into a hot night club." Lori Franze is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker, selling units at the new Pinnacle towers on Yonge St. (near the Air Canada Centre). Here's her advice: Put enough into the down payment to cover mortgage principal, interest, taxes and condo fees, including potential increases in condo fees. Invest in mid-priced condos. Don't buy more expensive units, which won't cover their costs in rent. Anything under 700 square feet performs best. Remember you'll always be competing against the lowest-priced condos, with units for sale or lease. Do your research on rents in the neighbourhood, vacancy rates and the time it takes to find a tenant for similar units. There's nothing worse than buying a place that will sit vacant for months. Be prepared to do your own property management or consider the costs incurred to hire someone. It may be worthwhile to hire a real estate agent to rent out your condo unit. "Realtors not only bring expertise in preparing the lease documents to best protect the owner, but also bring a higher quality of tenants," Franze says. Donald Bentley, president-elect of the Toronto Real Estate Board, works with Royal LePage in the Leaside area of Toronto. "Look for condos that appeal to the widest group of people possible," he says.   This means easy access to public transit, shopping, parks and other amenities. If you're buying a unit in a new building, check the quality of construction done by the developer in the past. "You want to make sure the developer finishes things to the highest standard, so the building doesn't get run down in a short period of time." And if you're looking at an existing building, check the percentage of units that are owner-occupied. More owner-occupied units means more care, maintenance, decorum and pride of ownership, Bentley says. He advises buying in buildings that have a higher percentage of larger units, such as two bedrooms or one bedroom with den. "If more of the building is occupied by people who can afford higher rents, it will weather better than a building full of small units, appealing to a relatively transient group who are using it as a stepping stone." Does the condo unit have a parking spot with a separate deed? This means you can sell it if you don't need it. "Liquidity is an important factor," Bentley says. "Being able to divide and sell separately does have some merit. "We have a parking spot on sale now for $38,000. But the purchaser has to own a unit in the building." Don Campbell teaches courses in real estate. He has advice for condo buyers in a new book, 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors (Wiley, $26.99). Rules change from one condo corporation to another. Do the condo bylaws allow rentals in the building? If so, how many are allowed and how many are currently in the building? "Many novice investors have been caught buying properties in buildings where the rental allotment was already filled, so they had to keep their property vacant or resell it," he says. Some rules are quirky. Tenants may not be allowed to park their bicycles on the balcony or set up a home-based business. Read the bylaws so you know what you're responsible for and what you can and can't do as an owner. Check the reserve fund study that shows the current condition of the common areas, the schedule to replace them and the cost of doing so over the years. This is done by an outside company. Is the condominium board doing what the study says it should be for maintenance and building a reserve fund? The condo board does not have to do everything the study suggests, but if it's not building adequate reserves to cover obvious future major expenses, you can expect to receive a hefty bill in the future. "If the reserve fund study isn't complete (perhaps it's in the process), you need to talk to your lawyer about an addition to your contract," he says. Include something like this: "Seller warrants there are no special assessments required, contemplated or unpaid." There's a helpful worksheet for condo investors in Campbell's book. You can also consult CMHC's Condominium Buyers' Guide, a free publication available at its website,  http://www.cmhc.ca . Next week, we wrap up this series on condos with a look at the feasibility of buying and renting to family members. hostSun, 06 Aug 2006 20:43:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:53http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/52/opt-for-one-location.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=52http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=52&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/52/opt-for-one-location.aspx Campbell: Opt for one overseas location The international property market has long mastered the act of seducing the Irish investor. Dublin, Ireland The Sunday Business Post (Ireland) 06 August 2006 By Laura Noonan The international property market has long mastered the act of seducing the Irish investor. Where once an apartment in Alicante was the height of sophistication in international investment, Ireland’s budding property magnates now boast portfolios that span continents. It seems no location is too remote or too distant and no market too unproven to quash the boundless enthusiasm and optimism of the Irish investor with spare euro and an obliging bank manager back home. The traditional logic of diversification dictates that one property in three different markets leaves an investor far less vulnerable to economic maladies than three properties in one area. However, international property guru Don Campbell disagrees with the wisdom of the scattergun school of international property investment. On a recent visit to Dublin, Campbell, who is president of Canada’s Real Estate Investment Network, said Irish investors should try to specialise in one location rather than hedging their bets. ‘‘If you study a region and become a real expert on what’s driving that market and what the economics of that market are, that’s how you build a really good portfolio,” said Campbell, who has been investing in property since 1985 and is the author of a bestselling book on the subject. ‘‘I think that if you start to buy in all these different regions, it becomes more of a roll of the dice. If you’re guessing and hoping, then putting all your eggs in the one basket is a bad thing. ‘‘But if you actually know the marketplace, it’s a different story. One of Warren Buffett’s famous quotes is: ‘Put all your eggs in one basket and then really watch that basket.’ I like that.” Picking an area in which to invest should be an economic decision, not an emotional one, Campbell said. ‘‘People need to do their own homework. Find out are people actually moving to the area or if it’s just investors who are buying there. Talk to chambers of commerce. It’s not the pretty sunset pictures that drive a real estate market, you need to see an underlying economic strength.” Once investors have picked their area, Campbell said they should start off with one property and build from there. ‘‘If you grow gradually you learn from your mistakes and you do it better next time,” he said. ‘‘Buy one property, figure out the local planning, the local laws, what your rental market is, then buy another, and another, as long as the market fundamentals continue to be strong. ‘‘And then when you get to your target, whatever that is, just stop buying.” Some investors think their work is done once they’ve picked and purchased their properties, but Campbell said they couldn’t be more wrong. ‘‘You have to be proactive and pay attention,” he said. ‘‘If the economic fundamentals start to change in a region, then you should sell, and find another region. It’s not just ‘buy and pray’. It’s ‘buy and be an active investor’.”   Campbell said he generally holds properties for five to seven years before moving on and that houses and apartments are the easiest properties to sell on. ‘‘I tell every investor that you have to have an exit strategy in mind when you buy. ‘‘If you’re buying a quarter share of something or a hotel room somewhere, then the market that you’re going to sell it to is so much smaller, whereas if you buy an apartment or a house, you can sell it to a home owner. ‘‘You have to really think of how you’re getting in and how you’re getting out,” said Campbell.  hostThu, 06 Jul 2006 20:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:52http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/87/all-aboard-albertas-real-estate-express.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=87http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=87&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/87/all-aboard-albertas-real-estate-express.aspx All aboard Alberta's real estate express PATRICK BRETHOUR June 27, 2006 Globe and Mail Update ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE, ALTA. — Scott Rosseu has had a first-hand look at the oil-induced real estate mania in Dubai for the past three years, where soaring crude prices have led to massive speculation. But when the 36-year-old Vancouver expatriate finally decided to jump into the market himself, he didn't land anywhere in the United Arab Emirates. Instead, he flew halfway around the world to invest in that other oil-induced real estate boom -- the one in Alberta. Mr. Rosseu, who was part of a group of 330 real estate investors touring central Alberta by bus last week, didn't even wait for the sightseeing expedition before making his purchase of a rental property, a $140,000 three-bedroom townhouse in Edmonton. Although Edmonton has not quite reached the frenzy of Calgary to the south, the real estate market in the city has grown intensely competitive, with Mr. Rosseu only having a shot at the townhouse because an earlier deal had just fallen through. Sitting in Rocky Mountain House, about 80 kilometres west of Red Deer, during a break in the tour, he still marvels at how quickly he needed to move to secure a foothold in the formerly moribund Edmonton market. "I was in Edmonton for one day," he said. Mr. Rosseu is one of scores of investors from outside the province looking for a way to buy into Alberta's oil prosperity. Nearly one-third of the people on the tour -- five times as many as the last tour three years ago -- were from outside of Alberta, although most were from other parts of Canada. They are all looking to find the next market where oil money will draw in workers and set off a price spiral as it has in Fort McMurray, Calgary and, to a lesser extent, Edmonton. "There's more appreciation here," said Shemin Rajan, who is selling off her real estate holdings in Ontario and snapping up rental properties in Alberta, particularly Edmonton and High River, to the south of Calgary. The tour didn't even veer into Edmonton, where, as Mr. Rosseu discovered, the spiral has already begun. Red Deer, halfway between Edmonton and Calgary, was the starting point, with Lacombe to the north next, then Rocky Mountain House to the west, and finally the weekend playground of Alberta's oil rich, Sylvan Lake. A convoy of six buses rolled out early Friday morning to scrutinize Red Deer through the lens of a prospective real estate investor. "What we're doing is showing them how to look at a town," said Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network, organizer of the tour. The notes for the tour highlight some of that methodology -- including the significance of new churches at the edge of a town. New housing typically follows, along with appreciation of existing housing stock.   Mr. Campbell and his investors are taking aim at the resale market, and in doing so are hoping to avoid one of the main perils of Alberta's sizzling economy: the lack of workers. That shortage will lengthen waiting times for new homes and drive up prices for buyers in Calgary this year by 9.8 per cent, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. projections. At the same time, land prices are soaring in Calgary, creating a speculative frenzy, said Mark Love, one long-time builder and investor in the city. "Restaurant owners become condo owners overnight," he said. The heat of the Calgary market generated little warmth among the investors on the tour buses. Dean Pariposh, of Toronto, said he thought about buying rental properties in Calgary, but then calculated that he would be paying out more in mortgage and maintenance expenses than he was taking in from tenants. He went to Edmonton instead, bought several properties and raised the rents by 20 per cent. (There is no rent control in the province, so rents are negotiated much like any other contract.) Although there have been numerous stories in the local press about tenants suffering from sudden jumps in rent, Mr. Pariposh said none of his tenants gave notice to move out. For him, it is a confirmation of his investment strategy: Incomes are rising, so tenants can afford to pay more, and the flood of workers into the province means there is competition even for more pricey accommodations. hostTue, 27 Jun 2006 20:39:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:87http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/51/investors-discover-central-alberta-red-deer-advocate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=51http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=51&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/51/investors-discover-central-alberta-red-deer-advocate.aspx People are sold on Central Alberta By SUSAN ZIELINSK Red Deer Advocate staff   Jun 26 2006 Real Estate Investment Network, a Calgary-based organization with international membership, attracted about 400 people to tour Red Deer, Lacombe, Rocky Mountain House and Sylvan Lake on Friday, and to a day-long seminar on Saturday. Steve Robinson from Washington State said Red Deer’s location, between Edmonton and Calgary, is ideal.   “These two cities are huge powerhouses. Being able to locate an hour and a half between, makes things really easy,” said Robinson on Saturday at the Capri Hotel, where he attended an education seminar on real estate. “It’s got an incredible amount of potential.” He was most impressed with Red Deer. But Sylvan Lake would also make a good investment as Albertans get wealthier and relocate to the lakeside community and build their dream home, he said. Robinson said it happened in Washington. People moved out of Seattle to smaller communities. “We’re not the only people thinking along those lines,” said Robinson, who moved his family from Seattle to the small Washington town of Twisp. Peter Kinch, a mortgage broker and real estate investor from Vancouver, said twinning Hwy 11 to Sylvan Lake will make the beach town even more desirable. He said Vancouver may be attractive for investors now, but after the construction frenzy for the 2010 Olympics is over, there will be fewer job opportunities. He predicted Ontario’s economy will take a hit as the dollar continues to gain strength, driving up the cost of exports to the United States. “Ontario is largely impacted by the high Canadian dollar because too many jobs are manufacturing-based.” Kinch said he has heard the word “annexation” more than a few times during his first trip to Central Alberta. But tying up land in annexation negotiations will only increase demand for the real estate that is available and bump prices up higher. Once Red Deer is too expensive, nearby communities will benefit, he said. Only a huge loss of jobs could slow down Central Alberta’s economy. But that’s unlikely, he said. “Albertans have always known of the peaks and valleys, the booms and busts. But what they don’t know is the affordability of extracting their oil has attracted world attention.”   Scott Rousseau, a former Vancouverite who lives in the Middle East, watched as oil wealth spurred investment and growth in the country of United Arab Emirates. Central Alberta is heading in the same direction, he said. “If I moved back to Canada right now, I’d probably move to Red Deer. The opportunities are here and it’s so close to the mountains,” Rousseau said. It will take time for G8 countries to break their dependence on oil in favour of environmentally-friendly energy sources, he said. “I don’t think it’s going to change that fast. I think the oil companies and big business have too much of a hold over our economies and societies to happen quickly.” Meanwhile, there’s a growing need for oil in China and India, with their huge populations, he said. Don Campbell, president of Real Estate Investment Network, said real estate prices may seem high to Central Albertans right now. But people outside Alberta say it’s still affordable compared with the cost of housing elsewhere.   Central Alberta has strong economic factors like increasing wages, a growing number of jobs, migration into the region, and attractive lifestyles, he said. His company listed Red Deer, Sylvan Lake and Lacombe in the top 10 places in Alberta to invest, behind Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Calgary and Sherwood Park-Strathcona and Sturgeon counties. “Red Deer is going to be a great spot for a long time. It’s really the hub of this region.” People worried about rocketing prices should get a break in two to three years when the economy takes a breath and housing construction catches up to the demand, he said. He warns it’s not the time to sell property. Instead, people should look for more opportunities to buy. “I think the people in Red Deer should be smiling.” hostMon, 26 Jun 2006 20:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:51http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/10/cutting-through-real-estate-hype.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=10http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=10&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/10/cutting-through-real-estate-hype.aspx Cutting through hype first step to making money in real estate Cutting through hype first step to making money in real estate Would-be investors must remove emotion from investment decisions (Edmonton – June 13, 2005) – The key to making money in real estate is to remove emotion from the equation, and focus on the real economic strengths and weaknesses, says veteran investor and author Don Campbell. Being armed with proper knowledge allows investors to make decisions based on economic fundamentals rather than instinct or gut feelings. “Investing should not be exciting,” says Campbell. “If it is, you’re doing something horribly wrong.” Campbell’s new book, Real Estate Investing in Canada (Wiley / May 2005), outlines a proven Canadian specific approach to investing in real estate – an approach that has made Campbell and his clients a great deal of money since 1992. His clients have used this system to invest in over 12,600 properties with a value of over $1 Billion. Campbell says many would-be investors have similar worries that may be preventing them from investing in real estate, most of these perceptions based on mis-information or hype. This initial skepticism is healthy, he says, however it should not be a deterrent. Campbell says the key to confidently entering a real estate investment is to follow a proven system that helps investors unemotionally answer the economic questions of whether a market will continue upward or will soon drop. The system should be proven in all market conditions upwards, downward or flat. Don’s entertaining and engaging interview style takes the complex subject of real estate investing and makes it accessible to the viewer or listener. He assists average investors to cut through all the hype and baloney that surrounds the investment real estate industry, so they can make clear and confident investment decisions based on real life numbers. Campbell owns over 200 properties himself and only teaches what he uses himself – no hype, no baloney, just real life. Segment Ideas for Don Campbell, author of REAL ESTATE INVESTING IN CANADA How to Create Wealth with the ACRE System Top 10 Canadian Towns to Invest In – Based on the 12 Fundamentals of real estate, where would the best place to be investing? Cutting through hype in real estate market – what questions do investors have to ask themselves when considering a property? How do you know if you are truly getting a “great deal”? Market Prices – Are prices at their peak? Is it too late to get into the market? – We’ve all heard the lament before: I should have bought 5 years ago! But is it really too late to get into the real estate investment game? How do you know when an area has peaked? A good deal – How do I know if I am getting a good deal on a property or not? The 2 Key Sure-Fire Fundamentals That Predict The Future of Real Estate Prices. The key differences between buying a house to live in and buying an investment property The biggest trap that real estate investors fall into – and how to avoid it.  Contact: Don Campbell 604-856-2825 hostTue, 13 Jun 2006 17:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:10http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/50/bracing-for-gateway-effect.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=50http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=50&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/50/bracing-for-gateway-effect.aspx Bracing for the Gateway Effect A new study says highway improvements will increase land values by up to 20 per cent. But the skeptics believe there's more to the story MARCIE GOOD, June 2, 2006 Special to The Globe and Mail You might expect Laura Lintunen to complain about the time she spends in her car. She lives in Hammond, a neighbourhood on the border of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, and commutes to City Hall for her job as a finance manager for Vancouver Fire Rescue Services. An average trip is just over an hour, but an accident on any of her three routes, the Barnet Highway, Lougheed Highway, or Highway #1 to the Mary Hill bypass, could end up costing her three hours. Yet, like thousands of other daily drivers in this region, she has coping techniques. She commutes with her husband, Aki, and if they discover a problem on the perpetually bottle-necked Pitt River bridge, they turn back and work at home or take the West Coast Express. Sometimes they avoid the rush by staying in the city to go to a restaurant, a luxury they gave up when they moved to the small town. She even tries to enjoy the ride. "Especially on the way home, you decompress, get all arrangements for dinner. You get all the work stuff out and the transition to home is easier." Ms. Lintunen and her husband bought a large lot four years ago for a dirt-cheap $60,000 and built their own home with a garden. The drive, she acknowledges, is one of the trade-offs of living in the suburbs. That's generally the way people think about living in a metropolitan area: a nice house equals a lot of mileage. But the authors of a report released this week predict that will all change soon. Don Campbell, a best-selling real estate writer and analyst, generated much media attention with The Gateway Effect: the Impact of Transportation Improvements on Housing Values in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. Co-authored with Russell Westcott, the document estimates the cumulative impact of the provincial government's Gateway Program, including a number of highway and public transit expansion projects, will be to raise real estate values in certain areas by 10 to 20 per cent. "What the twinning of the Port Mann and other projects will do is physically bring the suburbs closer to the central business district," Mr. Campbell said in an interview. "If they open up all of these different chokepoints and the prices are much less expensive compared to the Lower Mainland, it's a clear path for people to choose to live in a region where they can commute and have a bit of a yard." Infrastructure plans aimed at reducing congestion include twinning the Port Mann bridge, adding another lane to Highway #1 from the Cassiar tunnel to Langley, new North and South Fraser perimeter roads, and new Pitt River Bridge and Mary Hill Interchange. Other projects already approved include the rapid-transit Canada Line and Evergreen Lines, and the Golden Ears Bridge. According to Mr. Campbell's research, in which he looked at studies on other urban areas with new transportation arteries, Maple Ridge stands to see the biggest spike in property values. Next on his list of big winners are North Langley, Fort Langley and Abbotsford, and finally Port Moody and Coquitlam. Land in these areas will benefit over and above gains in other areas of the Lower Mainland, and in case of a downturn in prices, they will also lose less. Citing the current difficulties of truck travel to the Port of Vancouver, Mr. Campbell predicts long-term benefits from these construction projects that will take this region through a possible lag after the Olympics. With easier transport of goods, more companies will choose to locate in this area. More jobs, more people, more taxes. The report is a ringing endorsement of the $3.5-billion mega-program which has faced much scrutiny and opposition from conservation groups, a seldom-unanimous Vancouver city council, and urban development thinkers who feel that the road expansions promote an unhealthy and unsustainable car-based metropolis. Mr. Campbell, however, argues that Gateway is not about sprawl, as commuting patterns have changed from a dominantly suburb-Vancouver trek to a much more diverse model. Many people who live in outlying areas are driving to jobs in other municipalities. Less traffic on the Port Mann bridge, he says, will also allow for reliable bus transportation. "I just keep hearing all the politics and all the self-interest groups arguing the points on the Gateway and I just wanted to cut through all that stuff and say, 'Okay, here are the facts'" says Mr. Campbell, an Abbotsford resident. "It's easy to fight change but sometimes change is inevitable and necessary." Gordon Price, a former Vancouver city councillor and current director of Simon Fraser University's City Program, doesn't doubt that land values will go up if the new highways go in. Transportation and real estate have had a long symbiotic relationship, from Roman roads to 20th century streetcar systems. But unlike those urban trains that organized a city by manageable travel times, freeways have a way of constantly overflowing their capacity. "Indeed, this is exactly the point that critics would make; that Gateway is more about real estate and opening up land than it is about transportation," says Mr. Price, a member of the Livable Region Coalition which advocates for more transit options. The boost in prices, he figures, would be temporary as people rush to buy. "More asphalt to open up more land to more people driving will create a worse problem. The question I always ask is, 'Show me the model that you have in mind when you talk about building more roads to solve the transportation problem.' " The mayor of Maple Ridge, Gordon Robson, is less than enthusiastic about the prospect of higher land values in his community. "It looks like a Chamber of Commerce brochure to me," he says, when asked about Mr. Campbell's report. He's skeptical about glowing reports on real estate values because they are a very small element of an area's livability. Not that he's ignorant about change; in fact he's in the middle of a contentious series of public hearings on his city's new official community plan, which deals with many issues of pending growth. Discussions have raised questions about allowing big-box stores and building on agricultural land. The goal, he says, is to allow growth while preserving the small-town feeling and healthy environment. The city is trying to organize development around transit, increase density near the town core, and promote employment zones and LEED-certified buildings. Currently, an estimated 67 per cent of residents commute and the tax base is 93 per cent residential. That situation, he knows, is not sustainable. "It's difficult to do anything here except own a car, and we're trying to change that," he says. "Gateway will provide some immediate relief to our traffic congestion bu hostFri, 02 Jun 2006 20:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:50http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/49/report-promises-local-gateway-to-prosperity.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=49http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=49&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/49/report-promises-local-gateway-to-prosperity.aspx Report promises local Gateway to prosperity Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Times Fri 02 Jun 2006 Byline: Derrick Penner  So many of the province's proposed Gateway transportation improvements lead to Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows that land values in the two Vancouver suburbs will jump as much as 20 per cent, the Real Estate Investment Network predicts. Those two communities won't be alone, said REIN president Don Campbell. North Langley-Abbotsford, Port Moody-Coquitlam, Surrey-Delta, areas of Richmond and Vancouver and even Chilliwack and Mission should also see increases in real estate values from 10 per cent to 20 per cent as new transportation routes are built. Campbell and co-author Russell Westcott released their assessment in a report titled the Gateway Effect: The impact of transportation improvements on housing values in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. "[The Gateway improvements] will open up some of the economic arteries of the region," Campbell said in an interview. Robert Helsley, a professor at the University of B.C.'s Sauder School of Business, said it is a matter of accessibility. Wherever government installs new infrastructure -- whether it is rapid transit tracks or a highway -- it will influence local property values and development patterns. Campbell, however, has tried to quantify the effect of the Lower Mainland's major transportation initiatives on property values from Richmond to the eastern end of the Fraser Valley. He studied examples around rapid transit systems across North America, as well as several instances of highway improvements in the United States to reach his conclusions. Campbell said Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows should see the most dramatic increase in property prices because heavy traffic congestion has depressed real estate values there compared to communities on the south side of the Fraser River. "People are looking for more affordable regions [to live in]," Campbell said. "The problem with some of these regions, like Fort Langley and Pitt Meadows, is that people just can't get to work." He added that the convergence of Gateway projects in the Ridge Meadows area should solve that. Gateway's North Fraser perimeter road, including an expanded Pitt River bridge and improved Mary Hill bypass should help ease traffic congestion through Pitt Meadows. So should the new Golden Ears bridge, Campbell added, which will link our community with Langley, Highway 1 and even Gateway's South Fraser perimeter project. Campbell added that he doesn't expect the "Gateway premium" to be fully included in property values until after the Gateway projects are complete, but industry participants in the region are already starting to see the effect take hold. "Some of that impact is probably already being felt," Ron Antalek, a realtor with Re/Max Ridge Meadows Realty in Maple Ridge, said. While the booming local housing market makes it difficult to measure exactly how much the Gateway initiative has pushed up property values, Antalek said he noticed a distinct increase in interest in the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows area by first-time buyers and commuters once TransLink's $650-million the Golden Ears bridge was confirmed. "Maple Ridge is the most affordable community in the GVRD," Antalek said. "That attracts first-time buyers, and [transportation improvements] have been the biggest drawing card for these [people] who can see a future of being able to survive a commute." However, Dave Keenan, CEO of Genstar Development, has worked on developments in Pitt Meadows and said he believes the premium could already be 15 per cent or higher. The Gateway project, he added, helps create a whole new "locus of activity," centred on Abbotsford, for regional industry. "All of a sudden there's this . . . different set of economic opportunities that are emerging in the Valley as opposed to the downtown core of Vancouver, or the Burnaby-Coquitlam sector," Keenan said. Campbell said he expects North Langley to Abbotsford area to see the next highest increase in values as twinning of the Port Mann bridge, expansion of Highway 1 improves traffic flows for commuters. Campbell also believes property values in the Port Moody-Coquitlam corridor could rise up to 20 per cent with the Evergreen Line rapid transit link and North Fraser perimeter road. Surrey and Delta will receive "secondary benefits" as the South Fraser perimeter road and twinning of the Port Mann bridge will help ease traffic on their major streets, Campbell said. Mission and Chilliwack, he added, will attract first-time buyers who will find it easier to commute to jobs in the Abbotsford and Langley areas. Campbell said areas of Vancouver and Richmond along the Canada Line rapid transit link will see values increase, but not by as much as other regions because they are already high-priced areas. David Podmore, president of the Urban Development Institute's Pacific region, and CEO of Concert Properties, said developers are already staking positions on rapid transit lines for higher-density development. Podmore said Concert is seeing more buyers who find urban condominiums more attractive than suburban houses. "A lot of people . . . are estimating both the real and social costs of commuting," Podmore added.  depenner@png.canwest.com THE GATEWAY EFFECT The Gateway Project will deliver a 10%-20% increase in real estate values in the areas listed, over and above the rest of the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, according to the Real Estate Investment Network. The regions that will benefit most are ranked according to how great the impact will be. 1. Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, hampered by poor transportation infrastructure for decades, will see property values increase as the region becomes among the most accessible in the Lower Mainland; this will drive demand for both residential and commercial-industrial property. Directly affecting the region will be: The new Golden Ears Bridge; the new Pitt River Bridge; the South Fraser Perimeter Road; the expansion of Highway 1; and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge. 2. North Langley, Fort Langley and Abbotsford have been held back by Highway 1 and Port Mann Bridge congestion. The expansion of the HOV lane on Highway 1,the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, and the completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road will relieve this congestion, driving growth for commercial enterprises and residential units alike. 3. Port Moody and Port Coquitlam already enjoy higher real estate prices than the first two on this list, but this region will experience an increase in demand from commuters wishing to stay on the north side of the Fraser. The largest impact will come from the Evergreen Rapid Transit Line and improvements to the North Fraser Perimeter Road. 4. Surrey and Delta will see traffic issues alleviated after the completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, as much of the commercial truck traffic will be taken off arterial streets. 5. Mission and Chilliwack will feel the impact from reduced congestion on Highway 1 and access to the South Fraser Perimeter Road. Mission will attract both residential and commercial interest, while Chilliwack will see a boost in commercial-industrial investment. hostFri, 02 Jun 2006 20:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:49http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/48/gateway-effect.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=48http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=48&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/48/gateway-effect.aspx The Gateway Effect Vancouver Sun Tuesday, May 30, 2006 The Gateway Project will deliver a 10%-20% increase in real estate values in the areas listed, over and above the rest of the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, according to the Real Estate Investment Network. The regions that will benefit most are ranked according to how great the impact will be. 1. Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, hampered by poor transportation infrastructure for decades, will see property values increase as the region becomes among the most accessible in the Lower Mainland; this will drive demand for both residential and commercial-industrial property. Directly affecting the region will be: The new Golden Ears Bridge; the new Pitt River Bridge; the South Fraser Perimeter Road; the expansion of Highway 1; and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge. 2. North Langley, Fort Langley and Abbotsford have been held back by Highway 1 and Port Mann Bridge congestion. The expansion of the HOV lane on Highway 1,the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, and the completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road will relieve this congestion, driving growth for commercial enterprises and residential units alike. 3. Port Moody and Port Coquitlam already enjoy higher real estate prices than the first two on this list, but this region will experience an increase in demand from commuters wishing to stay on the north side of the Fraser. The largest impact will come from the Evergreen Rapid Transit Line and improvements to the North Fraser Perimeter Road. 4. Surrey and Delta will see traffic issues alleviated after the completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road and the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge, as much of the commercial truck traffic will be taken off arterial streets. 5. Mission and Chilliwack will feel the impact from reduced congestion on Highway 1 and access to the South Fraser Perimeter Road. Mission will attract both residential and commercial interest, while Chilliwack will see a boost in commercial-industrial investment. © Vancouver Sun 2006 Copyright © 2006 CanWest Interactive, a division of CanWest MediaWorks Publications, Inc.. All rights reserved. hostTue, 30 May 2006 20:25:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:48http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/47/megaprojects-to-boost-land-values.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=47http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=47&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/47/megaprojects-to-boost-land-values.aspx Mega-projects to boost land values Shorter commuting time drives demand and fuels higher prices, real estate consultants say Derrick Penner, Vancouver Sun Tuesday, May 30, 2006 Highway improvements and new rapid transit lines will increase property values by 10 to 20 per cent in six areas of the Lower Mainland, says a report by the Real Estate Investment Network, a consulting and research firm. Don Campbell, REIN's president, called it the "Gateway effect" -- a reference to the $3-billion program to widen Highway 1 and build new truck routes. "In a nutshell, [it] is about accessibility and demand," Campbell said in an interview. Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows, North Langley-Abbotsford, Port Moody-Coquitlam, Surrey-Delta, Mission-Chilliwack and areas of Richmond and Vancouver will see real estate values rise as the communities become easier for commuters to reach, Campbell and co-author Russell Westcott said in a report to be released today. Campbell said people measure commuting distance in minutes, not in kilometres. "So as soon as you open up accessibility to a region, demand [among] people wanting to live there skyrockets." The $1.9-billion Canada Line SkyTrain route will make it easier for commuters to get from Richmond and south Vancouver to downtown Vancouver. The Evergreen Line will help improve downtown access for people in Port Moody and Coquitlam. The Gateway program includes twinning the Port Mann Bridge, widening Highway 1 and building perimeter highways on the north and south sides of the Fraser River. The aim is to reduce congestion, speeding the flow of commuters and trucks. Property values, Campbell said, should increase 10 to 20 per cent on top of whatever the average appreciation rate is in areas of those communities. If property values fall, the report says, real estate that has the "Gateway effect" advantage, should retain 10 to 20 per cent more of its worth. Campbell, an adviser to real estate investors and an investor himself, factored the experiences of other North American cities with major transportation improvements into the assessment. He said property values near commuter routes, such as San Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit and Toronto's Go Trains, experienced increases of 10 per cent within about 500 metres of the major stations. Campbell added highway improvements he studied increased property values up to 20 per cent for commercial property within a kilometre of highway exits and more than one kilometre for residential property. And while Campbell said some of the Gateway "premium" might already be in the real estate market due to speculative purchasers, he does not expect the full increase to be reached until after new routes or improvements are complete. "Once the work is done, then the [improved accessibility] occurs and people start to make it real in their heads," Campbell said. "The general population doesn't make its move until the project is complete." hostTue, 30 May 2006 20:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:47http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/8/gateway-effect-report-released.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=8http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=8&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/8/gateway-effect-report-released.aspx The Gateway Effect Research Report on the Impact of Transportation Improvements on Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley Real Estate Values is Released Projects 10%–20% Positive Impact on Values in Six Key Areas Distances in Southwestern B.C. Now Measured in Minutes, not Kilometres Vancouver, BC — May 30, 2006 — The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) is pleased to release a research report entitled The Gateway Effect detailing the impact of the Gateway Project’s transportation improvement projects on real estate in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. The report’s authors estimate the benefit to be in the range of 10%–20% for six key areas. Their research has found that Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows is the number one region positioned to benefit from these transportation improvements. This region is followed by (2) North Langley/Fort Langley/Abbotsford; and (3) Port Moody/Coquitlam. Secondary benefits will be felt by (4) Surrey/Delta; (5) Mission/Chilliwack; and (6) properties located along the Canada Line Rapid Transit line in Vancouver/Richmond. “With four new transportation arteries being constructed, real estate values in the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows area will benefit the most from the transportation improvement projects being initiated in the Gateway Project,” said Don Campbell, the report’s lead author and president of the Real Estate Investment Network. “Overall, we project a 10%–20% general benefit in the six areas most directly affected by these transportation improvement programs as congestion is reduced and access is improved.” “People need to understand that commute and travel distances are now measured in minutes, not kilometres,” adds Campbell, who is author of the best-selling Real Estate Investing in Canada. “If you can reduce commute and travel times to and from an area, you make that area much more desirable as a place to live. That’s the Gateway Effect.” The Gateway Effect report reviews the peer-reviewed academic research that has been conducted on the impact of light rail, highway expansion, bridge development and expansion, and road improvements in other parts of the world. It also reviews the impact of eight component transportation projects as part of the Gateway transportation project. These are: the Canada Line and Evergreen Line rapid transit expansions, the new south and north Fraser Perimeter roads, the twinning of the Port Mann bridge, the expansion and widening of the HOV lanes on Highway 1 to Langley, the new Pitt River Bridge and Maryhill Bypass, and the Golden Ears Bridge construction from Maple Ridge to Langley.  “There’s a well-established urban legend that roads and bridges help boost real estate values, but no one has ever really thoroughly investigated this,” said Russell Westcott, the report’s co-author, and general manager and research analyst for REIN. “Our research into the published peer-reviewed studies conducted around the world provides an interesting confirmation of this effect. We were able to utilize those studies to help us determine which areas of Greater Vancouver would benefit most from the proposed transportation projects.” “It’s been a long time since significant improvements to transportation have been made in Southwestern B.C.,” adds Campbell. “These projects will unleash the inherent value in these markets so that, in the future, these Gateway areas will outperform the rest. If the market goes up everywhere, these areas will increase about 10%–20% more. If the values everywhere drop, these will drop by 10%–20% less. While there are many important fundamentals to consider when buying principal or investment property, there is now little doubt from our research that transportation is one of the most critical factors to keep in mind.” The Gateway Effect report is available free to the public upon request by emailing the Real Estate Investment Network at info@reincanada.com About the Real Estate Investment Network Founded in 1993, the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) has grown over the years into Canada’s leading real estate research, investment and education organization. REIN serves more than 1,600 member clients owning more than 12,400 properties valued at $1.375 billion across the country. Members use REIN’s unbiased research and a focus on the fundamentals that drive real estate market values to invest in areas with solid potential for future growth. This focus assists them in removing the emotions, hype and misinformation that surrounds real estate markets across the country. The foundation of REIN’s work is research and analysis of current real estate trends and patterns, which the company then disseminates to its members through regular seminars in Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Calgary and Edmonton, and via research reports that detail current and emerging trends. REIN’s primary purpose is to provide expert assistance to its members and all Canadians to assist them in making sound decisions about purchasing principal residence, and investment/recreational real estate. REIN does not sell or market real estate to its members or the general public, but instead conducts objective and unbiased research, analysis and investor education. This Gateway Report is one such educational report, as are books such as the bestselling Real Estate Investing in Canada (2005) and 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors (2006). For more information, please contact Melanie Tennant at (604) 856-2825 or melanie@reincanada.com. hostTue, 30 May 2006 17:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:8http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/46/with-real-estate-think-local.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=46http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=46&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/46/with-real-estate-think-local.aspx When thinking real estate, think local: Investment decisions should be based on the numbers where you buy Edmonton Journal Wednesday, May 17, 2006 Byline: Ray Turchansky Source: Freelance  The second biggest concern among investors already skittish about the future of commodity prices is how long the joy-ride in housing prices will continue. TD Economics recently reported that the housing market in the United States has "come undone." Resale home prices were up only 7.0 per cent year-over-year in March, down from double digit increases during 2005, while new home prices were flat or down from a year earlier. Meanwhile, Statistics Canada said combined resale and new home prices in Canada rose at an annualized rate of 7.6 per cent in March versus February, the greatest single-month hike since January of 1990. The national figure is one that investors should ignore, according to Don Campbell, a real estate investor and instructor with the Calgary-based Real Estate Investment Network. "Don't get caught up in the average price across the country," said Campbell, who just released his second book, 97 Tips For Canadian Real Estate Investors. He said each local market is different. For instance, house prices were up 29.6 per cent annualized in Calgary during March, 14.3 in Edmonton, 6.9 in Vancouver and 4.3 in Toronto. But in St. John's, Nfld., prices slipped 0.1 per cent. "The Calgary market is still about 18 months ahead of us," said Campbell. "The nice thing about here is the in-migration is strong and steady. It's not outrageous, people aren't phoning and saying 'I'm living in my car,' but we're seeing that in Calgary, in Grande Prairie and obviously in Fort McMurray. "However, the average price for resale homes will be higher than new homes some time this year, because of the in-migration, where people say they can't wait 10 months for a new house. That doesn't happen very often. "But unlike Vancouver and downtown Toronto, there's economic strength behind it, people are moving in and their income's going up. In Vancouver it takes 60.4 per cent of your pre-tax income to afford an average piece of real estate, and then you add 39 per cent tax (if you're in the highest bracket)." So how long can the good times roll? "We'll see this kind of market for another 18 months, then it has to plateau," said Campbell. "A market is a living and breathing entity and you have to stop and take a breath, and it usually does in stages. It'll calm down to something a little more realistic." He said the real estate market goes up much quicker than it declines, and "we've got at least eight years" before prices will again bottom out. Meanwhile, rents are starting to rise, which means investors who've had to depend on resale price increases for their profits should now be able to survive on rental income once resale prices start to fall. The concern as a housing market starts to approach the top is that people jump in with both feet without doing their due diligence. "People are buying property here without getting an inspection. You do not want to get stuck with a $50,000 bill to fix the creek running through your basement that you didn't know about." Another worry has been the quality of new houses and condos being built at a time when tradeworkers are stretched thin. "I find as an investor I do better buying older properties, from a price viewpoint. In Vancouver you had to get a wristband to get in line to buy a condo that did not yet exist." He cites four common mistakes real estate investors make. "No.1 is not having a real goal. Real estate is not the end. Have a goal of what you want to make, then when you make it, get out. "No. 2 is not doing your homework, not asking the critical questions. "No. 3 would be creating a confrontational relationship with your tenants. Tenants are my best friends. They pay my mortgage. "No. 4 is signing documents that are not true." He suggests you that if you use a mortgage broker you should get a referral, and notes that "if you're going to invest in real estate, you need a mortgage broker who specializes in investment real estates, because it's completely different than you or I going to buy our house." He doesn't recommend "interest only" mortgages for people buying a family residence, but it often does make sense with an investment property because "your payments are lower and your cash flow is better hostWed, 17 May 2006 20:18:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:46http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/45/top-canadian-regions-for-real-estate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=45http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=45&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/45/top-canadian-regions-for-real-estate.aspx Alberta best for real estate investment themovechannel.com 2 May 2006 The province of Alberta has been tipped by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) as the best place in Canada to buy residential real estate for long-term investment. REIN's list of Canada's top residential property investment hotspots includes the Alberta cities of Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Alta., and Calgary.  REIN views these as having great prospects for long-term growth. Other cities occupying the top positions in the list include Kitchener-Waterloo, Hamilton and Barrie in Ontario, Fort St. John in British Columbia and Halifax in Nova Scotia. Look to the long-term The key to these markets is looking at them as long-term investments for capital appreciation as short-term rental potential remains uncertain. "This is for long-term fundamentals. Long-term hold,'' said Don Campbell, a real estate consultant, author and president of the Real Estate Investment Network.  "The next three years all kinds of regions across the country are going to look spectacular. But these ones will outperform over the long period of time.'' Richard Corriveau, regional economist for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. for the Prairies and Territories, said that the "one thing you can bank on is future appreciation." "The difficulty for investors will be how do you cash flow a property," Corriveau said. "You purchase a new condominium, a new single-family home (they) might be very difficult to cash flow a property. A renter might not pay your carrying costs but you'll get the return at the back end of the sale once your home appreciates.'' It remains unclear, however, how many people are buying residential real estate for purely investment purposes as opposed to using them as personal residencies.  There is also the question of speculative opportunistic investors versus those in it for the long term. "The question remains whether they are speculative investors and they intend to flip the property prior to the structure even being completed or whether they intend to rent it to people," Corriveau said. The hotspots outside Alberta In British Columbia, Campbell said that there's no question the Fort St. John region (and Dawson Creek) is "the No. 1 place to buy for investors.''  And in Ontario, it's the Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge triangle. "We're actually calling that the economic Alberta of Ontario. It's got strong, strong growth and lots of in-migration and average income is increasing quickly. If I was to invest anywhere outside of Alberta, that would be my second choice. Absolutely,'' Campbell said. hostTue, 02 May 2006 19:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:45http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/9/investors-making-dire-mistakes.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=9http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=9&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/9/investors-making-dire-mistakes.aspx “Real Estate Investors Are Making Dire Mistakes and Assumptions” - Don R. Campbell 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors Written by Don Campbell With Russell Westcott, Peter Kinch, & Barry McGuire Real estate as an investment is the topic of choice among Canadians today.  Is it at it’s peak, will the ‘bubble’ burst, everyone seems to have an opinion on what’s going to happen next.  However, most of these opinions are based on opinions and conjecture not real economic fundamentals… and this misinformation can lead to investors making dire investment mistakes. Whether you are a beginning investor or own a portfolio of residential units, 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors (Wiley / March 2006 / $26.99) provides insights and strategies to help you build wealth with real estate, while eliminating opinions and guessing by focusing on what is really occurring in the marketplace. From understanding the principles and economics of investing in terms understandable by anyone, to sourcing properties that have a future (not a past) to how to get them financed while saving thousands of dollars in the process: 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors covers what investors need to know. Features include: Mortgage and financing strategies Making your investment system work in today’s market How to analyze whether your town’s real estate market has a future Legal and tax insights designed to save investors and homeowners cash on each property Red flags that all property buyers need to watch out for How to avoid scams in a hot real estate market How to ensure you are being a pro-active landlord Topics covered: Assessing whether real estate investment is right for you Analyzing a city, town and neighbourhood Analyzing a property Negotiating mortgages and financing How to get your offer accepted in a hot seller’s market Legal tales from the trenches Landlording strategies designed to create a winning relationship with your tenant About the authors: Don Campbell is a Canadian-based real estate investor, author and consultant. He is the president of Canada’s Real Estate Investment Network™ (REIN™) and the author of the bestselling book Real Estate Investing in Canada. Peter Kinch is a national mortgage expert. Barry McGuire is a veteran legal expert who’s whole focus is on real estate. Russell Westcott is a creative buying and landlording expert. 11 Tips for Successful Real Estate Investing from 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors Adopt a proven system – it’s the difference between long-term wealth and long-term frustration. Remember: economic fundamentals, not emotions! Ignore conventional wisdom in order to be a successful investor and landlord Patience is an investment virtue…get rich quick = get poor quick! Choose your purchase date carefully –saves you time, frustration and money Learn the 1.1 rule for mortgage financing negotiations Never put fixed dates in your offer to purchase contract, or you may be liable for more than you bargained for. Never advertise – always market! The journey to real estate success is not a straight line. Be prepared for ups and downs: discover when to hang on and when to cut your losses. Keep your perspective when interest rates shift. If the interest on a $100,000 mortgage increases from 5.0% to 5.25%, that’s a difference of $17 per month. If this $17 a month turns your investment into a money-losing deal, it was a bad deal to begin with. Surround the boom for best results. It’s not always a great idea to invest right in the boom area, as the best deals may have disappeared. However, the “boom effect” will have a major impact on surrounding area’s real estate. For more information on 97 Tips for Canadian Real Estate Investors, or to book an interview with any of the authors, please contact Melanie Tenant at 604-856-2825 or melanie@reincanada.com hostSat, 25 Mar 2006 17:17:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:9http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/44/alternative-investing-in-real-estate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=44http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=44&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/44/alternative-investing-in-real-estate.aspx REPORT ON ALTERNATIVE INVESTING: REAL ESTATE Forget everything you knew about mortgages If you approach the financing of rental property as if you were buying your own home you could make costly mistakes THERESA EBDEN Globe and Mail February 26, 2006 Sometimes finding an investment that's "as safe as houses" means exactly that. With property prices increasing in most Canadian cities, and interest rates near historical lows, a growing number of people are becoming landlords in order to generate extra income, says Michael Polzler, executive vice-president and regional director at RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada Inc. "Many Canadians see real estate as a safe and predictable investment, especially for the longer stretch," Mr. Polzler said. "Canada gets between 200,000 to 300,000 new Canadians annually, and it's between four and six years before they're ready to buy . . . so they rent." Canada's population has risen by about 1 per cent for at least the past five years, helping drive demand for rental housing. Potential investors, however, should understand that arranging financing isn't like getting a mortgage for their own home. Ratio of financing To start with, potential landlords should make lower down payments than they would on the home in which they live, according to Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network. An investor who buys a $100,000 property outright that appreciates 5 per cent in value in a given time period will have a return on investment of 5 per cent, Mr. Campbell explains in his book, Real Estate Investing in Canada. But if that same investor puts down only $25,000 to buy the same property, the return becomes 20 per cent. Banks will generally demand a 25-per-cent down payment. Mortgage insurance from an organization like Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. or General Motors Acceptance Corp. can reduce this minimum to 15 per cent for an investment property and 5 per cent for a primary residence or a rental property in which the buyer also will live. Some alternate lenders will arrange financing that allows you to pay as little as 10 per cent down, but in Mr. Campbell's eyes this is often a mistake. "It can be very attractive if you're in the right market, at the right time, and the rents cover all your expenses. But I don't recommend the super-high financing," he said. "If you're over-financing and you're down to the last nickel, that's when the water heater explodes, inevitably." High-ratio mortgages -- those with a down payment of less than 25 per cent -- aren't common because many investors don't want to pay the insurance premium, said Peter Majthenyi, a consultant at mortgage broker firm Mortgage Intelligence Inc. For investors who opt for a high-ratio mortgage, Mr. Majthenyi generally finds more relaxed requirements for fire and hydro retrofits with GMAC than with CMHC. Shopping for a mortgage Don't just go to your existing banker and accept the mortgage rate offered, said Doug Gray, a former practising real estate and business lawyer and author of Making Money in Real Estate. In general, lenders won't give as good a mortgage rate on an investment property as they would on a person's own home. Getting as many lenders competing for your business as possible requires shopping around for mortgage brokers, Mr. Gray said. "They have all the lenders in their database," Mr. Gray said. "The individual normally doesn't have the street smarts, skill, time and inclination to knock on doors." When it comes to getting approvals, lenders will consider the state of your personal finances, your potential rental income and whether tenants exist, Mr. Gray said. Sometimes, a bank will offer a blanket mortgage for both your home and your investment property. Avoid this, Mr. Gray advises. "The basic rule of thumb with investing is you try not to have your principal residence involved at all," he said. Not all mortgage brokers are created equal when it comes to handling investment real estate deals, and you should seek out the more experienced ones for a smoother transaction, Mr. Campbell said. Also, giving bankers an organized binder of information holding everything from your net worth to proof of income to a pre-filled application will make it easier to seal the deal, he added. Structure of the purchase Sophisticated investors will consider purchasing through a trust if they want to take advantage of income splitting, said George Vandebeek, a tax partner at BDO Dunwoody LLP in Markham, Ont. Specifically, discretionary trusts are set up with you, the investor, as the trustee of this separate legal entity that holds a property for the beneficiaries -- who can be anyone, but are usually a spouse or children. As a trustee, you have the discretion to say which beneficiaries the trust will pay income or capital to. You can take advantage of the lower marginal tax rate of a spouse or child, who then uses the money from the trust, such as for tuition or hockey lessons. Beneficiaries must pay a rate of interest annually to the trustee by Jan. 30 of the following year, or the income goes back to trustees at the fully taxable rate. Setting up a trust costs about $2,000, and tax benefits are generally $300 to $400 each year, Mr. Vandebeek said. The trust ownership structure is more popular among small real estate investors than corporate structures, he said. "There's no real tax advantage to corporate ownership over personal ownership, unless you have an active business," he said. If you're purchasing many properties, or a large building with many tenants, a corporation will provide an extra layer of protection against your personal assets in case you are sued, he said. Don't cut corners If you're considering an investment property in another city, be aware of the costs of monitoring it, said Christine Mitchell, sales manager and broker for Royal LePage Real Estate Services in Mississauga, Ont. Otherwise, investors risk finding their hard-earned investment has been misused, she said. Marijuana grow-houses are on the rise, and targeted houses are primarily in good areas, with unfinished basements and with wood or ceramic floors that make it easy to manoeuvre pots and soil, she said. These tenants usually want to pay rent all up front, and the mould and bills for electricity as well as legal costs can be ruinous, she said. "You have to keep aware of your properties," Ms. Mitchell said. Another cost that potential landlords shouldn't skimp on is an accountant's assessment of how the new investment will affect taxes, she said. Sometimes investors are attracted to what Mr. Campbell calls "grey waters." For example, an unscrupulous broker may suggest you'll get a better mortgage interest rate if you sign a letter of intent to move into the property, even if you have no such plan. This can result in fines, fraud charges and loss of support from future lenders, he said. Paying a lawyer to look over your mortgage agreement before you sign is a good way to ensure your agreement is entirely above board, he said. hostSun, 26 Feb 2006 20:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:44http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/43/financing-rental-property.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=43http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=43&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/43/financing-rental-property.aspx Financing a Rental Property Feb. 12, 2006. 09:02 AM ELLEN ROSEMAN A popular rallying cry for real estate investors is, "No money down."  When you buy property in a hot market without risking any of your own cash, you stand to make huge gains because of leverage. Can you get no-money-down financing if you're dipping your toes into the rental property market for the first time? Maybe, but it will likely cost you more than if you find the money for a down payment. You have to ask yourself a few questions: Do I want to buy a property I can live in myself and rent out to others? Do I want to deal with major lenders? Or will I accept financing from alternative or private lenders? Do I want to get a mortgage insured by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC)? Or do I want a second mortgage? If you decide to go the owner-occupied route, you'll find your financing options are greater. CMHC mortgage insurance protects lenders against default. This lowers the risk and lets them offer more competitive rates. You can get a CMHC-insured mortgage for 95 per cent of the purchase price if you buy a duplex and live in one unit, says Paula Gasparro, manager of business development. You can get a CMHC-insured mortgage for 90 per cent of the price if you buy a triplex or fourplex, where you also reside. If you don't live in the rental property, however, CMHC will insure your loan for only 85 per cent of the value.  (These are all maximum amounts, depending on the property and your financial circumstances.) Don Campbell is an experienced investor who started a for-profit education and networking group. His advice: Be honest. "If you don't plan to move into a property, do not sign an affidavit or declaration saying that you are," he says in his book, Real Estate Investing in Canada (Wiley, $34.99).  "In fact, you should run away as fast as possible from any banker or broker who asks you to sign such a document, if they have the full knowledge that you are not going to move in." Lying on a mortgage application is not the way to create long-term wealth, he says. Moreover, you're likely to get caught. CMHC and major financial instutitions have stepped up their investigation of homeowner loans. They're knocking on neighbours' doors, asking about the property you purchased. "They have one purpose in mind: to find out if you have fraudulently obtained a loan. If you have, they will go after you with all of their legal might." In Edmonton, 55 people were arrested in 2004 for participating in such a scheme, he points out. They lost their properties and were also sued for punitive damages. You have to get an insured first mortgage if your down payment is less than 25 per cent. You can add the insurance cost to the principal and spread it over the life of the loan. As well, if you choose not to live in your rental property, you have to show that your debt costs can be sustained. CMHC requires tenants' rents to cover 110 per cent of your debt. And you must have a minimum net worth of $100,000, or 25 per cent of the property value. You can bypass mortgage insurance by taking out a second mortgage. This can bridge the gap between what the bank lends and what the property costs. A second mortgage carries a heftier interest rate than a first mortgage. But it's your best option if you want to buy a rental property with no money down. Mortgage brokers are experienced at finding second mortgages. They can tap a variety of lenders, ranging from alternative financial institutions to private individuals. Elisseos Iriotakis, a mortgage broker and certified financial planner, works in a Mortgage Centre outlet in Toronto's Bloor West Village. About 40 per cent of his clients are buying a second property. He advises using a line of credit secured against your home to borrow what you need — and more — to purchase a rental property. You get a big tax break if you borrow to invest in real estate. The entire mortgage interest you pay can be deducted from your taxable income. Mortgage interest is not tax-deductible for a principal residence. But you can write off part of the interest if you rent out part of your house. Here's an example of his borrow-to-the-hilt strategy. Suppose you have $200,000 worth of equity in your own home (after deducting the mortgage). You plan to use a line of credit to buy a rental property. Rather than borrowing $200,000 against your home, Iriotakis says you should ask the bank for a $300,000 line of credit. This gives you a tax deduction for interest on an extra $100,000 of mortgage debt owed already — interest that is not normally deductible. You take out a second mortgage to cover the rental property's price that is not covered by your $300,000 line of credit. Then, the interest paid on this loan is also tax-deductible. There are other tax advantages when you invest in rental property, Iriotakis explains. You can pay your spouse or children to take care of the property and collect rents. Then, you can deduct the salary expenses from your rental income. As well, any losses you incur in the first few years of rental property ownership can be written off against your other personal income — not just your rental income. His advice to new investors: "Have everything well-documented, especially if you're taking out equity from one property to invest in another. The Canada Revenue Agency needs a paper trail." Next week, we look at tricks for finding and keeping good tenants. hostSun, 12 Feb 2006 20:52:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:43http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/42/digging-for-condo-gold.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=42http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=42&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/42/digging-for-condo-gold.aspx Digging for condo gold The future looks good, but do the math before investing By LINDA LEATHERDALE, BUSINESS EDITOR, TORONTO SUN January 29, 2006 The view took my breath away. Toronto's skyscape reflecting on the shimmering waters of Lake Ontario, with Bronte Harbour's trendy shops and newly appointed yacht club only a block away. This stunning 15th-floor condominium cried out to me. Granite countertops, built-in wine chiller, stainless steel appliances, and a bathroom to die for -- with Jacuzzi, fancy fixtures and heated floors. The investor who snapped up this two-bedroom fixer-upper last August for $159,900 spared no detail in his masterful renovation. Staging the furniture, complete with plasma TVs in the master bedroom and living room, made such a powerful presentation, a buyer would be tempted to ink the deal then and there. But wait! What did Don Campbell, author of Real Estate Investing in Canada tell me? "Buy with your head, not your heart." I remembered. I've got to make the numbers work if I want to be successful at real estate investing. This baby was now selling for $224,900, a pretty sizable gain in just six months -- yet still a reasonable price, considering across the street you can't get into the towering waterfront buildings without paying at least $450,000. But the key question was how much rent could I get for this two-bedroom beauty? "It's all about positive cash flow," said Russell Westcott, general manager of Campbell's company, the Real Estate Investment Network. In Campbell's book, on page 260, a property analyzer helps prospective investors know whether the property is an alligator that will keep eating up money, or whether it has potential. In short, if what you can get in rent in a year divided by the purchase price equates to 9%-10%, then it's okay to proceed. NEEDED $1,875 A MONTH Now I had do some homework. When I crunched the numbers, I'd need to get $1,875 a month in rent. A quick comparison of rents for two-bedroom units in the neighbourhood showed I was on the high side. And besides, not far away, in suburban areas north of QEW, you could rent a whole three-bedroom home for almost the same price. Sure, I could speculate that our record, hot real estate market would keep steaming ahead to push the price of this two-bedroom baby through the roof. And I could use the gains when I sold to offset losses in rent. But now I'm a fly-by-night speculator. In the end, I followed my head and walked away. Some would say that's a good thing: Why would I want to invest in an overbaked condominium market that surely must, sooner or later, go bust? But like Warren Buffet's strategy, it's all about finding gems to buy and hold, in good times and bad. And besides, according to the market analysts at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), the sky ain't falling, even though we had record condo starts in Toronto last year, with even more starts expected this year. One of the big reasons for no bust is we don't have a speculator-infested condo market, like we did in the late 1980s, when buyers were flipping units before the ink dried on the deal. New rules have deterred such speculation. Fact is, today only 19% of registered condo apartments are owned by investors -- compared to 30% back in 1995. Who's buying are young people who can't afford the high cost of a detached home and empty nesters who are downsizing. They'll be more of them as baby boomers age. "This market is driven by ownership. And with steady employment growth and low mortgage rates, we're still seeing price increases above inflation," said Jason Mercer, CMHC's senior market analyst for the GTA. DEMAND FOR RENTALS UP As for investors, here's encouraging news: The vacancy rate for apartment rental buildings is falling from a record high of 4.3% in 2004 (a result of low interest rates encouraging renters to buy homes) to 3.7% in 2005 and possibly 3.5% this year. But the vacancy rate for condo units is even lower at 0.9%. And that has led to a 1% increase in average rents for two-bedroom units, which now fetch $1,760 a month, up from an average of $1,735 in 2004, according to the latest Rental Market Report by the Toronto Real Estate Board. Interestingly, a condo apartment fetches more rent than a condo townhome -- and, of course, rents vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood. But let's be real. A 1% gain is still below inflation. And that's why homework is important for the serious investor. Bottom line is that for investing and tax reasons you want to make sure you've got positive cash flow. Your costs include the cost of carrying your mortgage, condo fees, utilities costs (will the tenant pay them or you?) property taxes, repairs and maintenance. You've also got to factor in a vacancy allowance, because no unit is occupied 100% of the time. In Toronto, factor in a vacancy rate of 3% to 6%. Toronto real estate lawyer Alan Silverstein also cautions there's a difference between buying a new condo or a resale. "If you're buying a brand new condo, you may not be able to rent it out until it is registered, which could mean several months of down time while you have possession but no title," he said. More advice: - Before you buy, check out the status certificate of the condo corporation, plus the reserve fund. If it's an older building, will there be major maintenance costs, which could push condo fees higher? - Know your obligations as a landlord. Go to the Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal (orht.gov.on.ca) for info. - Do a thorough check on the tenant, including credit checks. - Have a lease. You can ask for but not demand post-dated cheques. You can ask for first and last month's rent. Security deposits are banned. - Hire an accountant. "Show positive cash flow from day one to keep the taxman off your back," said Silverstein. hostSun, 29 Jan 2006 20:50:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:42http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/41/rein-members-in-toronto-star.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=41http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=41&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/41/rein-members-in-toronto-star.aspx Cashing in on the real estate boom By: ELLEN ROSEMAN Jan. 22, 2006. 01:00 AM Wednesday, August 27, 2008 Raymond and Angelina Wu live in Toronto. He works in pharmaceutical sales and she's a regional sales manager with a women's clothing chain. The couple also has a sideline business, buying and selling real estate in the fast-growing bedroom communities outside Toronto. In just two years, they have bought five rental properties in Hamilton and Kitchener and have sold one at a profit. "Before getting into this, I was a renter myself," says Raymond Wu, 29. "I know about abuses and horror stories. "But I'm learning how to screen tenants and give them incentives to stay longer." He credits the Real Estate Investment Network, a paid-membership group, with providing the skills, confidence and contacts needed to succeed. "I've been to other seminars and courses, paid thousands of dollars, and never gotten anything out of them," Wu says. "I came upon REIN and found the first meeting was mind-blowing." When real estate markets are hot — as they are in Toronto and environs — it's a dangerous time for rookie investors. Networking clubs proliferate and experts write bestselling books, explaining how to buy properties that pay for themselves. Don Campbell is a self-taught real estate investor and consultant who started REIN 14 years ago in Calgary. He visits Toronto each month to lead courses and meet members. His book, Real Estate Investing in Canada (Wiley, $34.99), has been reprinted five times in the past year. With 27,000 copies sold, it's breaking records for real estate guides. But Campbell is no get-rich-quick guru with a giant ego. He comes across as modest and anxious to share his hard-won knowledge with others. Moreover, he's donating his book royalties to charity. So far, he's raised $50,000 for a house — to be built by Habitat for Humanity, using only women's labour — for single mothers in Edmonton. The book combines motivational thinking — "you must change your actions to change your results" — with checklists, scorecards and formulas to analyze properties. He uses a simple rule to screen properties: The annual gross rent must be at least 10 per cent of the purchase price. If a property rents for $925 a month and you can buy it for $100,000, is it worth checking out? Yes. Gross annual rent adds up to $11,100, which is more than 10 per cent of $100,000 (or $10,000). But if the purchase price is $200,000 for a property with gross annual rent of $11,100, don't waste valuable time investigating it further. Another rule is to avoid "alligators," or properties that generate too little income to cover their costs. If you go into debt each and every month to feed these black holes, how long before you exhaust your monthly job income? And how will you afford to buy more income properties? "Negative cash flow properties can eat you alive — that's why we call them alligators," he says. Campbell says you can learn enough from his book to go out and start buying real estate. But there's barely any advice about finding and keeping good tenants for your properties. That's a curious omission, one that is offset by ubiquitous sales pitches for Campbell's self-help networking group. REIN membership costs $199 a month (plus GST), with a one-time $200 fee to join. You have to stick around for at least 17 months, which brings the minimum cost up to about $3,500. Why 17 months? He wanted to tie people up for three years, but felt it wasn't realistic or saleable. "Veteran real estate investors will tell you that it will take at least three years of real estate investing before you will start to see the real fruits of your labour," he advises in the book. Make sure you're emotionally prepared to wait that long, he says. Find a system and don't deviate from it. Your investments should be boring and you should find your excitement elsewhere. In an interview, Campbell throws in tips about how to treat tenants with respect. Think of them as your customers or clients. Provide a welcome basket when they move in. Bring along a box of donuts with you each time you visit. At monthly meetings, Campbell emphasizes economic and market research. He invites respected bank economists, such as Benjamin Tal of CIBC and Carl Gomez of RBC Financial. He gives out lists, updated every two years, of the top 10 Ontario regions where members should invest. His number one choice is Simcoe shores (Barrie and Orillia), followed by the tri-city area (Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge). Brampton/Orangeville is third, Hamilton is fourth, Markham and Stouffville-Whitchurch are fifth. Durham region (Pickering, Ajax and Whitby) is sixth. The Highway 404 corridor (Newmarket and Aurora) is in seventh place, followed by Oshawa and Ottawa. Toronto is in last place, but only for areas in transition from rough-edged to genteel. Two examples are the Junction in the west end (Dundas St. W. and Keele St.) and the area south of Danforth Ave. and east of the Beaches. He keeps a running tab of the number of properties purchased by REIN members. Last week, it was up to 14,000 properties, with a value of $1.29 billion. Members I spoke to enjoy the monthly meetings, which linger on close to midnight. They get useful information and make good contacts. Bob Tracz is on his third career. He started as a veterinarian, then went into sales and marketing. Anxious to avoid travel to the United States and stay closer to home, he and his wife Pam joined REIN in October 2004. "I became active right away, buying 11 properties and selling three. I won an award for being a top producer last year," he says. Four of the eight properties he owns are in Calgary (another of Campbell's favourites), two are in Barrie and two in Hamilton. Some are joint ventures with family members, including his daughter, a sister and a niece. Last month, he hooked up with a couple he met at a REIN meeting. Miki and Ronny Bukovsky have deep roots in real estate and focus on buying apartment buildings. "We have more than 200 doors," Miki says, referring to units in buildings she and her husband own. The Bukovskys came to Canada just four years ago from Israel. They needed help with marketing, while Tracz wanted to hitch his wagon to more experienced investors. It was a match made in real estate heaven, they say, with REIN acting as informal matchmaker. How long will Ontario's economy and real estate markets hold up? Campbell sees the good times stretching to 2012. Others aren't so sure. Next week, we'll look at economists' predictions about the prospects for real estate investors. hostThu, 26 Jan 2006 20:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:41http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/136/real-estate-is-not-your-asset.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=136http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=136&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/136/real-estate-is-not-your-asset.aspx Exclusive Insights For REIN From Australia’s #1 Real Estate Expert hostSun, 01 Jan 2006 18:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:136http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/138/the-critical-step-you-must-avoid.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=138http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=138&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/138/the-critical-step-you-must-avoid.aspxAs a consultant to many business owners and real estate investors around the world I am blessed with the opportunity to speak with many leading edge entrepreneurs. And from these discussions, I have found that there is a very clear theme, almost a trap, which grabs most entrepreneurs at one time or another.hostSun, 01 Jan 2006 17:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:138http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/141/online-marketing-tips-for-real-estate.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=141http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=141&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/141/online-marketing-tips-for-real-estate.aspxAdvertising is one of those necessary evils in this industry. It’s expensive and we’re always wondering if we’re getting a good return on our investment. As vacancy rates continue to climb, so to it seems do advertising budgets. But it doesn’t need to be this way.hostSun, 01 Jan 2006 16:40:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:141http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/140/45-seconds-to-your-next-joint-venture.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=140http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=140&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/140/45-seconds-to-your-next-joint-venture.aspxYou must stop what you are doing right now and take an hour to work out your "perfect," sure-fire concise elevator speech. Once memorized and refined, have it ever at the Ready when you get the opportunity for those 45-second presentations.hostSun, 01 Jan 2006 16:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:140http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/40/stouffville-makes-list.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=40http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=40&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/40/stouffville-makes-list.aspx Stouffville makes list of real estate hot spots Homeowners should 'have big, goofy smiles' April 17, 2004 Jeff Mitchell Staff Writer Stouffville Sun-Tribune So, you own a home in York Region. You genius. That's the assessment of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), an Alberta-based agency that has ranked communities here among the best places to invest in residential real estate in Ontario. "The people who live in York Region should be going around with big, goofy smiles on their faces," REIN president Don Campbell said.  "Eight years from now, they're going to look like geniuses. It should be a very good ride for the next few years." While real estate throughout the region has increased in value rapidly and should continue to for the foreseeable future, Markham, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Aurora and Newmarket are singled out as particularly hot spots in the REIN study. It applied criteria, including public transit, community amenities, the average income of residents, housing mixes and vacancy rates, to measure the potential for return on investment. "The good news is, anybody sitting in that area should be smiling," Mr. Campbell said from his Calgary office. "They will see their values increase more quickly than the provincial average." York Region also fared well in a survey of most desirable real estate investment locations prepared for the Toronto Star by Re/Max Ontario Atlantic Canada. Georgina placed fifth in the top 10, followed by Aurora at number 6 and Thornhill in ninth place. Local real estate agent Craig Proctor said even if the current sky-high listing prices don't keep climbing, the recent spike in the market will have lingering effects. "The market's pretty crazy out there right now; we're seeing some unbelievable prices," he said.  "This market's got legs." Traditionally, homes are valued according to past performance -- the prices at which homes in a given area have recently sold. But with interest rates the lowest they've been in decades and demand for homes exceeding supply, the old way of doing business has gone out the window, Mr. Proctor said. "In evaluating a home, we'd look in the rear-view mirror to see what's happened," he said.  "But the market has been increasing at such a pace, you now have to look at the market and actually build in a price increase." Like many observers, Mr. Proctor believes the market cannot continue its unbridled rise forever. But he's hopeful the boom won't be followed by a bust, the likes of which put real estate in the tank in the early '90s. "I don't know if it's going to drop at any time, but at some time, prices will stop going up," he said. Indeed, some restraint might be necessary to keep first-time buyers from being shut out of the market. That's what happened in the '80s: first-time buyers got priced out of the market. And that kills the cycle." But even if things level off, homeowners need not despair. It's an asset that allows one to hold and prosper. "Real estate is like stocks," Mr. Proctor said. "If you buy and you hold, you'll always be OK." The top 10 communities in which to invest in real estate, according to the REIN study, are: Barrie and Orillia; Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge; Brampton and Orangeville; Hamilton; Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville; Pickering-Ajax and Whitby; Aurora and Newmarket; Oshawa; Ottawa and The Junction in Toronto hostSat, 17 Apr 2004 19:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:40http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/88/edmontons-strong-economy-to-continue.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=88http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=88&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/88/edmontons-strong-economy-to-continue.aspx Edmonton Economy Will Enjoy Strong Growth Through 2005, says EDE President Edmonton, Alberta - April 17, 2004 - Massive resource developments in Northern Alberta and Greater Edmonton, high disposable incomes and low interest rates are all driving Greater Edmonton's robust economy, said Allan Scott, President and CEO, Economic Development Edmonton, speaking here today at a conference organized by the education-oriented Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™) "Greater Edmonton has posted economic growth rates near or above three per cent in six of the last seven years," Scott told several hundred REIN™ members. "The Conference Board of Canada is forecasting a solid 3.5 per cent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate in 2004 and 3.4 per cent in 2005." Oilsands investment and drilling activity are primary drivers of Edmonton's strong economic performance. Alberta Economic Development estimates that oilsands investment will average $4 billion in each of the next 10 or more years. Oil is currently trading over $35 per barrel, and expected to remain strong over the near term, generating high levels of drilling activity.  This investment climate has generated high disposable incomes, spurring consumer confidence and buoyant retail sales. "Our high level of disposable income also attracts a steady influx of skilled migrants from other parts of Canada, which we need to support growth," said Scott. Combined with these factors are the record low interest rates experienced by all North Americans. Low interest rates have stimulated the purchase of high-priced durable goods such as houses and cars. Housing starts in 2003 are expected to hit 12,300, second only to the record 12,800 housing starts in Greater Edmonton in 2002. Growth risks in 2004 and beyond In 2003, SARS and BSE were the unexpected factors that negatively impacted growth across Canada. While it's hard to predict these kinds of events, businesses should monitor several situations. In-migration, while still strong, is slowing in response to strengthening economic conditions in other parts of the country. While the Edmonton and Alberta housing markets remain strong, many forecasters are projecting the housing market growth rate will slow at some point, bringing a slowdown in the construction industry. Another factor to watch is the success, or lack thereof, in drilling activity. Conventional oil deposits are becoming more difficult to find. Reduced investment in conventional oil exploration would have a profound, long-term impact on the Greater Edmonton economy. As well, extended closure of the U.S. border to live cattle would continue to negatively affect the economy and force restructuring in Alberta's beef industry. "Our economy has proved resilient in the face of BSE and other negative economic factors in 2003. If the U.S. economy can continue growing, Greater Edmonton's economy should continue to roll in the next several years," Scott said. Scott noted Edmonton has many positive investment factors in its favour. "Greater Edmonton's status as one of the most globally competitive cities for overall business costs was re-affirmed by the recently released KPMG Competitive Alternatives report. But Edmonton's advantages go far beyond business costs. Our first-class education and health systems, cultural richness and plenty of recreation and entertainment options add up to a quality of life that's hard to match," he said. "So whether you're looking at starting a new business, re-locating a business or looking for an exciting region to live, work and play in, now is an ideal time to choose Edmonton."  About REIN™ REIN™ members gather at carefully structured workshops each month - including the Saturday session Scott addressed - to learn and discuss the latest trends and strategies in residential real estate. They often tap into information sources that aren't easily accessible to the general public, giving them a distinct advantage in the marketplace. Each monthly session offers REIN™ members: global, national, regional, and local economic updates and analysis; strategies to apply economic analysis to specific investment opportunities; practical skills to identify, assess, acquire and manage specific properties; sharing and analysis of real-life case studies and success stories; opportunities to develop joint-ventures with other REIN™ members. REIN™ also offers members additional resources via a password-protected area on its Web site (www.albertarein.com). They include the opportunity to: ask free-of-charge questions of respected lawyers, accountants and other financial professionals who are on retainer to REIN™; download any of 60 real estate documents (property analysis forms, sales contracts, rental agreements, etc.) to execute real estate transactions; advertise to recruit joint-venture partners for prospective investments. For an interview with REIN™ President Don R. Campbell, call 1-888-824-7346. For more information about REIN™, go to www.albertarein.com hostSat, 17 Apr 2004 19:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:88http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/39/markham-makes-list.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=39http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=39&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/39/markham-makes-list.aspx Markham makes list of real estate hot spots Homeowners should 'have big, goofy smiles' April 17, 2004 Jeff Mitchell Staff Writer Markham Economist & Sun So, you own a home in York Region. You genius. That's the assessment of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), an Alberta-based agency that has ranked communities here among the best places to invest in residential real estate in Ontario. "The people who live in York Region should be going around with big, goofy smiles on their faces," REIN president Don Campbell said.  "Eight years from now, they're going to look like geniuses. It should be a very good ride for the next few years." While real estate throughout the region has increased in value rapidly and should continue to for the foreseeable future, Markham, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Aurora and Newmarket are singled out as particularly hot spots in the REIN study. It applied criteria, including public transit, community amenities, the average income of residents, housing mixes and vacancy rates, to measure the potential for return on investment. "The good news is, anybody sitting in that area should be smiling," Mr. Campbell said from his Calgary office. "They will see their values increase more quickly than the provincial average." York Region also fared well in a survey of most desirable real estate investment locations prepared for the Toronto Star by Re/Max Ontario Atlantic Canada. Georgina placed fifth in the top 10, followed by Aurora at number 6 and Thornhill in ninth place. Local real estate agent Craig Proctor said even if the current sky-high listing prices don't keep climbing, the recent spike in the market will have lingering effects. "The market's pretty crazy out there right now; we're seeing some unbelievable prices," he said.  "This market's got legs." Traditionally, homes are valued according to past performance -- the prices at which homes in a given area have recently sold. But with interest rates the lowest they've been in decades and demand for homes exceeding supply, the old way of doing business has gone out the window, Mr. Proctor said. "In evaluating a home, we'd look in the rear-view mirror to see what's happened," he said.  "But the market has been increasing at such a pace, you now have to look at the market and actually build in a price increase." Like many observers, Mr. Proctor believes the market cannot continue its unbridled rise forever. But he's hopeful the boom won't be followed by a bust, the likes of which put real estate in the tank in the early '90s. "I don't know if it's going to drop at any time, but at some time, prices will stop going up," he said. Indeed, some restraint might be necessary to keep first-time buyers from being shut out of the market. That's what happened in the '80s: first-time buyers got priced out of the market. And that kills the cycle." But even if things level off, homeowners need not despair. It's an asset that allows one to hold and prosper. "Real estate is like stocks," Mr. Proctor said. "If you buy and you hold, you'll always be OK." The top 10 communities in which to invest in real estate, according to the REIN study, are: Barrie and Orillia; Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge; Brampton and Orangeville; Hamilton; Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville; Pickering-Ajax and Whitby; Aurora and Newmarket; Oshawa; Ottawa and The Junction in Toronto hostSat, 17 Apr 2004 19:34:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:39http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/38/beware-of-bankers-bearing-gifts.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=38http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=38&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/38/beware-of-bankers-bearing-gifts.aspx Beware of bankers bearing gifts April 17, 2004 Sandra E. Martin National Post These days, shopping for a mortgage is a lot like shopping for cosmetics. Financial institutions are all offering some kind of department-store-style "gift for purchase" when you get into hock with them. Except instead of sample-sized lipsticks, lenders are luring homeowners with bonus Air Miles, free home furnishings and good, old-fashioned cash. RBC Royal Bank, for instance, is working with new-home developers to entice buyers with gift certificates for The Brick. It's the bank's way of making warm and fuzzy with cash-strapped couples who have horrified visions of sitting on milk crates for months in their new homes. Buying a resale house? Ask for cash back with your mortgage, and the bank will advance you the furniture-shopping money you need. Over at Bank of Montreal, Air Miles collectors can claim up to 500 reward points. If you're not the loyalty-card type, BMO is happy to give you three free mortgage payments or, if you'd rather, up to $10,500 cash back on the average-sized $150,000 mortgage. For those who prefer to give unto others, Toronto-based Metro Credit Union will donate 0.5% of your principal amount to charity. So if you borrow $150,000, the credit union immediately cuts a cheque for $750 to the charity of your choice. And right now, TD Canada Trust's Web site is touting a Home Buyer Incentive - $1,000 in your pocket when you take out a new mortgage with them. What gives with all the graft? Not so long ago, the only thing homeowners expected from their mortgage was a way to pay for the roof over their heads. In the 1980s, people were grateful to the bankers who bestowed them with double-digit loans, and no one thought to ask for a better rate, let alone Air Miles. What a difference a couple of decades makes. "Twenty years ago, the posted rate was the posted rate. Now there's some scope for negotiation," comments Patricia Arsenault, an economist with Clayton Research in Toronto. Ms. Arsenault believes the shift in attitudes began in 1994, when the housing market slowed down, and lenders had to scramble for the few potential borrowers who were actively looking. To "get the competitive edge," she continues, financial institutions were forced to start discounting their posted rates. And once borrowers got a taste of negotiating power, there was no going back. The legacy of those times is that consumers, by and large, have come to take low rates for granted. You can apply online for a home loan through ING Direct and get a mouth-droppingly low 3.15%, no bargaining required. As a matter of fact, if you're okay with the concept of a mortgage that fluctuates with prime, you can sign up for under 4% pretty much anywhere. For those who prefer to pin down exactly how much carrying their mortgage will cost, the posted rate for a five-year fixed mortgage is currently just over 6% at major banks, and most customers with good borrowing histories will be able to bargain that down to around 5%. "These days, if you ask for a point off, you can get it," says Doug Anderson, a real estate agent based on B.C.'s Sunshine Coast, who's been in the home-buying business for 18 years. Therein lies the rub for lenders. How can you get customers to come knocking on your door if everyone else's mortgage rates are as cheap as yours? That's where most of these new perks are coming from. "All the different banks and credit institutions are trying to stand out," observes Don Campbell, a real estate consultant and president of the Calgary-based Real Estate Investment Network. "I've never seen it (the mortgage industry) this aggressive." Mr. Campbell cautions, however, that mortgage perks are not pennies from heaven. In most cases, the price of the perk is a higher-than-optimal interest rate, and you end up covering the cost of the perk, and more, in your future payments. Brian Mathey, a Kingston, Ont., mortgage broker and former banker, agrees. "In mortgages, there never really is a deal. There are good mortgages, and there are mortgages that are made to look good." Mr. Matthey, head of The Mortgage Professionals since 1989, describes the case of a client who came to him for help with refinancing a cash-back mortgage he signed up for almost three years ago. Although the client's original mortgage had seemed like a good deal, when he asked about refinancing to take advantage of current low rates, "all of a sudden his penalty is $11,000." Turns out that buried in the fine print of the mortgage agreement was the stipulation that, if he walked away before the term was up, he'd have to repay the cash bonus in full. Not all perks come with such punitive terms. However, Scott Brown, vice-president, residential mortgages and home financing for RBC Royal Bank, admits that cash-back mortgage customers will have to pay for their upfront money with a slightly higher interest rate. The amount of forwarded cash is entered into a computer program, which spits out the terms that will allow the bank to recover it over time. In the case of Metro Credit Union's new get-a-mortgage-give-to-charity product, the cost of each donation comes out of the institution's marketing budget. Vice-president of marketing and community relations Kimberley Ney is hoping charities that sign up for the program (there's no charge to the charity) will encourage their supporters to sign up for a mortgage with Metro. Instead of claiming the charitable donations on its own income tax return, Ms. Nay says the credit union will consider each one "a referral fee." For its part, the Bank of Montreal, has said that all or any of its perks can be added to any fixed-term or variable-rate mortgage, without sacrificing the ability to negotiate a better rate. At BMO, mortgages are considered a kind of loss-leader for the bank. Good, cheap, mortgages make for happy customers who go on to do business with the bank in other ways. "The mortgage business is so critical," says Maria Racanelli, vice-president of personal banking at BMO. "It's our way to develop and nurture relationships with our customers." Besides, Ms. Racanelli adds, some homeowners prefer to pay a little more for mortgage features that add convenience (cash back to buy furniture) or peace of mind (a fixed rate). Not everyone, she adds, is fixated on getting the cheapest rate: "If that was the case, we'd have everyone clamouring for the six-year, variable, below-prime" mortgage. If getting the lowest rate possible is your main concern, shop around for a product that's free from bells and whistles, and that fits your financial needs. Otherwise, there's no real harm in picking a mortgage with perks, as long as you're aware of all the costs - up front and long-term. "Make sure you keep asking what's behind the curtain," Mr. Campbell advises. "What, really, are you pitching me here?" hostSat, 17 Apr 2004 19:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:38http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/36/adding-value.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=36http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=36&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/36/adding-value.aspx ADDING VALUE B.C. Lower Mainland Edition -- Internet Vol. 12  Week of Apr 16 - Apr 22, 2004 Even minor modern upgrades to a bathroom or kitchen can add value to a house and lead to a quicker sale, according to Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network. Campbell told a recent REIN meeting that the right upgrades can more than pay for themselves on sale day. His top reno picks: the kitchen, the bathroom and the front entrance. hostFri, 16 Apr 2004 19:26:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:36http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/35/barrie-orillia-ranked-best.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=35http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=35&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/35/barrie-orillia-ranked-best.aspx Barrie, Orillia ranked best places to invest April 16, 2004 Toronto Metro Barrie and Orillia are the best Ontario communities to invest in, a report has found. The Real Estate Investment Network, an organization that teaches Canadians how to invest in real estate, identifies the 10 best Ontario communities most likely to generate strong returns on investment. Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge were second; Brampton and Orangeville tied for third; Hamilton was fourth; Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville tied for fifth; the Durham region was sixth; Aurora and Newmarket tied for seventh; Oshawa was eighth; Ottawa ninth; and Toronto tenth. The search for the top 10 included 59 cities and towns. Barrie and Orillia achieved top ranking because they have transformed themselves from vacation get-away destinations to "economically viable area(s) of the province," the report says. Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge placed second because their combined population is growing at twice the national average. Also, their economies are undergoing expansion, and housing in the area remains affordable. The report also features a list of communities that have potential: London, Mississauga, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Windsor. For more information, visit www.ontariorein.com hostFri, 16 Apr 2004 19:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:35http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/34/report-gives-orillia-top-spot.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=34http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=34&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/34/report-gives-orillia-top-spot.aspx Report gives Orillia top spot for Ontario real estate April 16, 2004 Toby Gorman Orillia Packet and Times An organization formed to help average Canadians learn to successfully invest in residential real estate has declared Orillia the top spot in Ontario in which to invest. The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), an Alberta-based company that has more than 900 members countrywide, researched and travelled to 59 Ontario cities before deciding Orillia has the best potential for future residential investments. "Property owners and people who are in the market for property in that area should be driving around with big goofy grins on their faces," said REIN president Don Campbell from Vancouver yesterday. "The potential in the Orillia area based on our thoroughly researched criteria is huge. We look at each city and consider the future rather than the past, its potential with respect to lifestyle, recreation, employment and proximity as well as demographics, and come up with a ranking." Barrie tied Orillia for first place while the Kitchener-Waterloo region and Brampton-Orangeville corridor finished second and third respectively. All but two of the top 10 cities, Orillia and Ottawa, were within an hour's drive from Toronto. Campbell, who said he plans to invest here, said that Orillia's population, its proximity and accessibility to Toronto, potential for waterfront development and lifestyle all pushed Orillia to the top. Robert Lamb, Orillia's economic development officer, said the report is a good indication of what lies ahead for real estate in Orillia. "I think the research (REIN) did indicates we are poised for good, stable growth in several aspects of our economy and that people will be attracted to that sort of positive climate," said Lamb, who met with REIN officials to provide information on the region. "I've had a huge number of inquiries recently relating to residential real estate because people are starting to recognize the potential here." Lamb believes the 52-page report, titled The Top 10 Ontario Towns to Invest in, carries some clout. The group has been providing investors with unbiased research for 12 years and its members own a cumulative total of $750 million worth of property throughout Canada. "To be at the top of their list is a very prestigious event for the community," said Lamb. According to the report, Orillia achieved top ranking because it has transformed itself from merely a vacation get-away destination to an economically vibrant area of the province. According to Campbell, the entrepreneurial spirit of Orillia and its representatives was key to creating a diversified and attractive community. He also said that strategically taking advantage of both the area's natural beauty and proximity to Canada's largest city, Barrie and Orillia, the two major cities on the shores of Lake Simcoe, will prove to have "an amazing run in the next decade."  To produce the report, REIN researchers compiled data from a variety of sources including the Ontario government, the Canada Mortgage and housing  Corporation, Statistics Canada and the Conference Board of Canada. The company's researchers traveled to each of the 59 cities to interview officials, assess local economies and inspect local housing inventories.  hostFri, 16 Apr 2004 19:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:34http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/33/ottawa-9th-in-growth-forecast.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=33http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=33&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/33/ottawa-9th-in-growth-forecast.aspx Ottawa 9th in growth forecast Outlook is hurt by slowdowns in construction, PS hiring April 15, 2004 Kristin Goff The Ottawa Citizen A slowdown in construction and the more cautious spending approach of the Paul Martin-led government are reining in economic growth in the capital region this year, according to the Conference Board of Canada. Overall, the region's total economic output, or GDP growth, will slow to 2.6 per cent this year down from 3.2 per cent last year, according to the Conference Board's Metropolitan Outlook, released yesterday. "That's still respectable," said Alan Arcand, an economist with the Ottawa economic think-tank. In a comparison with 18 major urban centres, Ottawa ranked ninth in GDP growth. It is expected to strongly rebound to 4.1 per cent growth in 2005. The federal government's program spending review, announced in December after Mr. Martin took over as prime minister, has gone a long way to taking the sizzle out of the economy, which last year had its best year since 2000. "The sectors that are dragging us down would be construction and slower growth in public administration and defence," Mr. Arcand said. This year the value of residential and non-residential construction will fall by more than five per cent, or $110 million, to $1.79 billion, Mr. Arcand predicts. Last year, construction output expanded by "a remarkable" 16.7 per cent on the double strength of a strong housing market and a string of major projects, including the Canadian War Museum, office buildings for federal employees, and hospital expansions. But a host of proposed projects, announced by former prime minister Jean Chretien, are on hold because of the spending review. Those include a multimillion-dollar federal court and parliamentary buildings. A proposed history museum has been cancelled. Residential construction will also slow from its recent strong pace. The Conference Board predicts a 12-per-cent drop in that sector this year to 8,000 housing starts. That's somewhat more pessimistic than the 8,800 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. predicts. The federal government, which employs 114,500 people in the region, is also expected to slow its expansion to one quarter last year's rate. The projected 1.3-per-cent increase in public service employment is about one-tenth the hiring binge of two years ago, according to the report. Despite the slowdown in construction and public service hiring, retailing, service and other sectors should hold up well, partly because they'll continue to benefit from employment and income growth in the region over the past several years, Mr. Arcand said. Technology is also showing some signs of modest improvement. A forecast of two-per- cent growth in that sector doesn't include any increase in employment. By 2005, technology should be doing much better, with growth of 4.8 per cent in production of goods and services. That would bring it back to levels not seen since 1999. Overall, the Conference Board predicts a modest a 1.3-per-cent increase in employment this year and an unemployment rate of 6.9 per cent, which is still slightly better than 7.1 per cent unemployment forecast for Canada. Unemployment in the region should fall to six per cent next year, the Conference Board said. Mr. Arcand declined to speculate on how a federal election might affect how the year unfolds in the region's economy. But others did not. The region "will be in a state of flux and see no growth" for at least the next six or seven months because of the coming election, said Barry Nabatian, general manager of Market Research Corp. That is his "best-case scenario," assuming an election in the next few months and a return of a majority government by the Liberals, he said. The slowing of the region's economy might have a bright side for some investors, according to a separate report yesterday that ranked Ottawa as the ninth-best of 59 Ontario cities for real estate investment. Ottawa's cooler housing market is a good thing for investors who have a better chance of finding deals for rental investment properties, said Don Campbell, president of REIN, a real estate investment network. He predicts rental vacancy rates, which have climbed recently, will decline again and the value of property will climb steeply again, after a brief plateau in the market. hostThu, 15 Apr 2004 19:16:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:33http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/32/london-makes-farm-team.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=32http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=32&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/32/london-makes-farm-team.aspx London makes ‘farm team’ in home investment area April 15, 2004 Hank Daniszewski Business Reporter London Free Press London has been consigned to the ‘farm team’ in a survey of the best Ontario cities for residential real estate investment. Barrie and Orillia tied for first place, and the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge area came second in the survey conducted by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN). Almost all of the top 10 communities were in the suburban belt surrounding Toronto. The report also includes an “Ontario farm team” of communities that didn’t make the top 10. The five “farm team” communities, in no particular order, are London, Mississauga, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Windsor. The study was conducted in 59 Ontario communities based on their “ability to generate strong returns on investment.” Ken Harper, president of the London and St. Thomas Real Estate Board, said he hasn’t heard of the group. Harper said the results were not surprising because of the soaring housing prices in the suburban belt surrounding Toronto. He said he doesn’t mind London’s “farm team” status if it means housing in the city is a great deal. “London is still one of the most affordable housing markets in the country, and a great place to live.” The survey notes proximity to Toronto is a driving force in real estate prices. “Any discussion of real estate in Ontario must include Toronto in one form or another,” the report notes. hostThu, 15 Apr 2004 19:15:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:32http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/31/report-cites-windsor.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=31http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=31&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/31/report-cites-windsor.aspx Report cites Windsor for real estate potential April 15, 2004 Bob Meyer Business Reporter Windsor Star Windsor did not make a list of the 10 best communities in Ontario to invest in residential real estate, but it was recognized as an up and comer. The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) recently named Canada’s most southerly city, along with four others in the province, as Farm Team Members – communities that “didn’t quite make the top 10 this year but still offer significant potential.” “It (Windsor) could be on REIN’s Top 10 list in 2005,” the REIN report said. This Canadian organization was formed to help average Canadians learn to successfully invest in residential real estate, and issued a report identifying the 10 communities in Ontario in terms of their ability to generate strong returns on investment. Barrie and Orillia tied for first place, the Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge triangle was second, Brampton and Orangeville tied for third, Hamilton was fourth, Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville tied for fifth, the Durham region including Pickering, Ajax and Whitby came sixth, Aurora and Newmarket tied for seventh, Oshawa eighth, Ottawa ninth and Toronto’s Junction area tenth. REIN researchers travelled the province, conducting research in 59 cities and towns, before compiling a 52-page report titled “The Top 10 Ontario Communities to Invest In.” London, Mississauga, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls were listed with Windsor. hostThu, 15 Apr 2004 19:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:31http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/30/city-homes-valuable-investments.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=30http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=30&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/30/city-homes-valuable-investments.aspx City homes valuable investments April 15, 2004 Mark McNeil Hamilton Spectator Hamilton is one of the best places in Ontario to invest in real estate. A new study by the Calgary-based Real Estate Investment Network ranks the city fourth among 59 communities across the province. And the Conference Board of Canada yesterday said the Hamilton area economy was one of the strongest performing in Canada last year. The Hamilton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), that includes Grimsby and Hamilton, saw a 3.5-per-cent increase in gross domestic product (GDP, the value of goods and services produced in an area) in 2003, and the city was third of 18 cities surveyed behind Oshawa (8.9 per cent) and Kitchener (5.5 per cent). The board’s Metropolitan Outlook Survey said: “Hamilton’s economy got back on track in 2003. The city’s largest and most important industry – manufacturing – enjoyed a banner year, while construction activity was also hot.” The REIN group, which monitors real estate investment trends, rated Barrie and Orillia first, with Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge sharing second place. Brampton and Orangeville were third, ahead of Hamilton, which held fourth place by itself. Ottawa ended up in 9th place and Toronto, 10th. The study, released yesterday, ranked the communities according to their expected return on investment in residential real estate. Data from various sources – such as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. and field interviews – was plugged into a computer program which produced the ranking. The report, called The Top 10 Ontario Towns to Invest In, said Hamilton’s economy is “strengthening which will inevitably lead to increased housing prices and rental rates.” Relatively low unemployment, high immigration and low rental supply are driving a high demand for rental housing. REIN President Don Campbell said the computer program is designed to identify when communities are reaching a plateau with real estate values and rent prices. “It tells us when the local market is about to take a breath. In Hamilton, you are nowhere near that yet.” The report is produced for REIN members to help them decide which communities they should be investing in. The conference board tempered its Hamilton enthusiasm by cautioning that manufacturing sector woes and declines in construction are slowing gross domestic product (GDP) growth this year. Growth is expected to slip to 2.3 per cent (to be ranked 15th of 18) in 2004 and then to rebound in 2005 to 3.9 per cent (7th of 18). Generally, GDP growth of 3 per cent or higher is seen as a healthy sign for an economy. GDP is the estimated value of goods and services produced within an economy. By comparing one year to another, economists determine whether the economy is growing or shrinking. That’s an indicator of prosperity. McMaster University economist Mike Veall says the board’s prediction of a slowing economy for this year appears to be coming true. He noted Statistics Canada’s monthly job survey found the Hamilton area lost 10,000 jobs over the last two months, which is typical for an economy that is slowing down. The board said Dofasco Inc. had a “lot to do with the big turn-around, reporting record shipments for 2003. Conditions are expected to improve this year, thanks to strong industrial demand for steel. But Hamilton’s manufacturing sector will struggle nonetheless with the bankruptcy filing of Stelco Inc. – another one of Hamilton’s largest employers.” Hamilton had a “wave of non-residential investment” last year that expanded construction output by 9 per cent. But most of the major projects have been completed. There are not many new ones to fill the void. Housing starts declined by 12.4 per cent in 2003 and are expected to fall by another 6 per cent. The report also noted the city’s loss of the 2010 Commonwealth Games to New Delhi, India, was a setback to the local economy. On a positive note, the report noted, the service sector is expected to strengthen in 2004. “The non-commercial services sector will lead the charge . . . thanks in part to the boost it received from the double cohort of students who entered McMaster University and Mohawk College last September.” The REIN report said the average single-family house in Hamilton increased to $197,887 in 2003 from $183,769 the year before – a 7 per cent increase. The average rent last year was $778 per month compared to $765 in 2002. Hamilton’s vacancy rate is 1.6 percent, one of the lowest in the province. Shawn Murray, the president of the Realtors Association of Hamilton-Burlington, said: “We’re an attractive investment in Hamilton. You certainly can buy more for your money here . . . If you bought something three or four years ago, certainly in the last four years it has gone up dramatically in value.” hostThu, 15 Apr 2004 19:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:30http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/37/real-estate-figures-nothing-to-flip.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=37http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=37&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/37/real-estate-figures-nothing-to-flip.aspx Real estate figures nothing to flip over April 15, 2004 By Derek Abma Ottawa Sun Despite a rapid run-up in house prices in the past three years, Ottawa is ranked only the ninth-best place in Ontario to invest in residential real estate, an investor's group says. The Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), a club of about 1,000 real estate investors across the country, puts Ottawa one spot ahead of Toronto's Junction district and just behind Oshawa in terms of places in the province that can provide the best return on investment on residential properties. The organization said 59 areas were measured. REIN president Don Campbell said the organization consults with economists and realtors in the cities it looks at to arrive at its conclusions. "We look for towns that have a future, not a past," he said. "A lot of people like to buy on reputation. We don't." He said one of the best things about the Ottawa market is its high income levels, which increase the amount people are willing to pay for housing. The population base is also well-educated, thanks in part to post-secondary institutions based here. The district consisting of Barrie and Orillia was ranked as the best place in Ontario to buy real estate. hostWed, 07 Apr 2004 19:30:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:37http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/11/future-of-edmonton-real-estate-conference.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=11http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=11&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/11/future-of-edmonton-real-estate-conference.aspx Media Advisory: "Future of Edmonton Real Estate” conference will feature city’s Economic Development President and Alberta’s Chief Economist" Experts to provide economic and investment forecasts at REIN™-organized event Edmonton, Alberta – April 14, 2004 – The President of Economic Development Edmonton will join Alberta’s chief economist as featured speakers at an all-day conference this Saturday that explores where the city’s real estate market is headed during the next decade and beyond. Economic Development Edmonton’s Allan Scott will address Edmonton’s economic future, with a special focus on the real estate market. Tony Morehen, the province’s chief economist, will offer REIN™ members an Alberta-wide economic forecast, and provide important details about the recently announced provincial budget. Both experts will be part of the all-day “Future of Edmonton Real Estate” conference organized by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™). Media Availability: News media are invited to attend all or part of the Future of Edmonton Real Estate conference, and to: interview Mr. Allan after his presentation ends at about 10:20 a.m. interview Mr. Morehen after his presentation ends at about 3:00 p.m.   Date: Saturday, April 17, 2004 Location: Mayfield Inn and Conference Centre  16615 - 109th Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta – (780) 484-0821 Time: 9:00am - 4:30pm. About REIN REIN™ is a national organization that teaches the latest strategies and trends in residential real estate investment in structured monthly workshops. The knowledge has enabled REIN’s 900-plus members to buy more than 8,200 properties worth a cumulative $750 million and growing. For more information about REIN™, go to www.albertarein.com or contact: Don R. Campbell                                                          Jeff Adams President                                                                      Communications Advisor Real Estate Investment Network                              1-888-824-7346                                                             1-403-615-8747 don@albertarein.com                                                           jefffadams@yahoo.com hostThu, 01 Apr 2004 17:30:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:11http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/29/cost-effective-ways-to-ensure-the-sale.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=29http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=29&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/29/cost-effective-ways-to-ensure-the-sale.aspx Cost Effective Ways to Ensure the Sale March 14, 2004 Edmonton Sun Wednesday, August 27, 2008 Whether you’re sprucing up your own home for    resale, or upgrading a rental property, there are tried-and-true methods of generating the most from your redecorating and renovating investment, says expert Don R. Campbell. Campbell is President of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), a national organization that teaches the latest strategies and trends in residential real estate investment in structured monthly workshops. At a recent REIN workshop focusing on enhancing the value of existing real estate investments, Campbell offered cost-effective advice for every room of a home. Let’s start with the bathroom. If you have a bathtub, toilet and/or sink in one of those pink, green or blue hues that were popular in the ‘60s, ditch them. Yes, there are a few potential buyers or renters who like the retro look. But if you want the home to have widespread appeal, install modern white tubs, toilets and sinks. While still in the bathroom, replace your out-dated brass-coloured or chrome towel racks with modern pewter-like versions. And replace your old ceramic tiles with a one-piece “surround” system. It’s easy to install (sometimes right on top of the old tile), looks up-to-date, and is much less prone to mould and mildew. Campbell has similar advice for kitchens. Replace the harvest gold or green appliances with white ones, replace out-dated brass/chrome handles, and install modern countertops (black or beige patterns are popular). Also replace your 70s-style dark-wood cupboards, but do it the inexpensive way by simply painting them in hard white enamel. As for the living room, bedrooms and hallways, use taupe paint on most walls, and white on baseboards, trim, doors and casings. “Beige and white sound bland, but they provide a classic look that most buyers and renters find very appealing,” Campbell says. Replace the old brass-coloured doorknobs and light fixtures with modern pewter-like ones, and then turn your attention to floor coverings – getting rid of shag and multi-textured carpets, and gold, green, red or other unsightly linoleum. “One test for floor coverings is to ask yourself: ‘Would I want my kids or grandkids to play on this?’ If not, get rid of it,” says Campbell, who has invested in more than 200 residential properties in the past 20 years, and who has also learned from the renovation experiences of longtime REIN™ members Arlen Dahlin and Michael Millenaar. Many owners remodel the basement to make a home more attractive. But don’t bother unless it can be done for a few hundred dollars, Campbell says. “Most potential buyers or renters don’t care about the basement. It will never be a deal-maker or deal-breaker.” Other decorating and renovating tips include: On the inside, installing white electrical switches and plug-ins (no unsightly yellow ones), and low-maintenance single-lever taps in the kitchen and bathrooms; On the outside (for maximum curb appeal), installing half-moon doors, new porch lights, and a new mailbox and house numbers. Why bother fixing up your place when you can probably sell or rent it just the way it is? “Because the money you invest in these relatively low-cost upgrades will more than pay for themselves in what you can ask from buyers or renters,” Campbell says. “These little touches will set your home far apart from others that haven’t been improved in years.” As proof, Campbell offers before-and-after photos, and before-and-after real estate assessments. The photos depict dramatic improvements in various homes’ interiors and exteriors. The assessments show equally dramatic improvements in property values. A $6,000 redecorating and renovation job on a northwest Edmonton home added $16,500 to its assessment value, and enabled the owner to increase the rent by $2,400 a year. A similar $4,800 investment in another Edmonton home added $$15,500 to its assessment value, and $3,540 to its annual rental income. “I’m not talking about doing things cheap and gouging your tenants,” Campbell warns. “I’m talking about cost-effectively upgrading your property so you truly add value – value for which your buyers or tenants will gladly pay. It pays for itself very quickly!” hostSun, 14 Mar 2004 19:09:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:29http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/12/costeffective-renos-and-upgrades.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=12http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=12&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/12/costeffective-renos-and-upgrades.aspx Scrap the pink bathtub, replace your old mailbox, and don’t waste money on basements! Residential real estate investment expert has lots of good tips for getting the most from your redecorating and renovating dollars Calgary, Alberta – March 8, 2004 – Whether you’re sprucing up your own home for    resale, or upgrading a rental property, there are tried-and-true methods of generating the most from your redecorating and renovating investment, says expert Don R. Campbell. Campbell is President of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN™), a national organization that teaches the latest strategies and trends in residential real estate investment in structured monthly workshops. The knowledge has enabled REIN’s 900-plus members to buy more than 8,200 properties worth $750 million and growing. At a recent REIN™ workshop focusing on enhancing the value of existing real estate investments, veteran REIN™ Members Arlen Dahlin and Michael Millenaar offered cost-effective advice for every room of a home. Let’s start with the bathroom. If you have a bathtub, toilet and/or sink in one of those pink, green or blue hues that were popular in the ‘60s, ditch them. Yes, there are a few potential buyers or renters who like the retro look. But if you want the home to have widespread appeal, install modern white tubs, toilets and sinks. While still in the bathroom, replace your out-dated brass-coloured or chrome towel racks with modern pewter-like versions. And replace your old ceramic tiles with a one-piece “surround” system. It’s easy to install (sometimes right on top of the old tile), looks up-to-date, and is much less prone to mould and mildew. Campbell has similar advice for kitchens. Replace the harvest gold or green appliances with white ones, replace out-dated brass/chrome handles, and install modern countertops (black or beige patterns are popular). Also replace your 70s-style dark-wood cupboards, but do it the inexpensive way by simply painting them in hard white enamel. As for the living room, bedrooms and hallways, use taupe paint on most walls, and white on baseboards, trim, doors and casings. “Taupe and white sound bland, but they provide a classic look that most buyers and renters find very appealing,” Campbell says. Replace the old brass-coloured doorknobs and light fixtures with modern pewter-like ones, and then turn your attention to floor coverings – getting rid of shag and multi-textured carpets, and gold, green, red or other unsightly linoleum. “One test for floor coverings is to ask yourself: ‘Would I want my kids or grandkids to play on this?’ If not, get rid of it,” says Campbell, who has invested in more than 200 residential properties in the past 20 years, and who has also learned from the renovation experiences of longtime REIN™ members Arlen Dahlin and Michael Millenaar. Many owners remodel the basement to make a home more attractive. But don’t bother unless it can be done for a few hundred dollars, Campbell says. “Most potential buyers or renters don’t care about the basement. It will never be a deal-maker or deal-breaker.” Other decorating and renovating tips include: ·         on the inside, installing white electrical switches and plug-ins (no unsightly yellow ones), and low-maintenance single-lever taps in the kitchen and bathrooms; ·         on the outside (for maximum curb appeal), installing half-moon doors, new porch lights, and a new mailbox and house numbers. Why bother fixing up your place when you can probably sell or rent it just the way it is? “Because the money you invest in these relatively low-cost upgrades will more than pay for themselves in what you can ask from buyers or renters,” Campbell says. “These little touches will set your home far apart from others that haven’t been improved in years.”  As proof, Campbell offers before-and-after photos, and before-and-after real estate assessments. The photos depict dramatic improvements in various homes’ interiors and exteriors. The assessments show equally dramatic improvements in property values. A $6,000 redecorating and renovation job on a northwest Edmonton home added $16,500 to its assessment value, and enabled the owner to increase the rent by $2,400 a year. A similar $4,800 investment in another Edmonton home added $$15,500 to its assessment value, and $3,540 to its annual rental income. “I’m not talking about doing things cheap and gouging your tenants,” Campbell warns. “I’m talking about cost-effectively upgrading your property so you truly add value – value for which your buyers or tenants will gladly pay. It pays for itself very quickly!”   REIN™ Resources Each monthly workshop offers REIN™ members: global, national, regional, and local economic updates and analysis; strategies to apply economic analysis to specific investment opportunities; practical skills to identify, assess, acquire and manage specific properties; sharing and analysis of real-life case studies and success stories; opportunities to develop joint-ventures with other REIN™ members.   REIN™ offers members additional resources via a password-protected area on its Web site (www.albertarein.com). They include the opportunity to: ask free-of-charge questions of respected lawyers, accountants and other financial professionals who are on retainer to REIN™; download any of 60 real estate documents (property analysis forms, sales contracts, rental agreements, etc.) to execute real estate transactions; advertise to recruit joint-venture partners for prospective investments.     For an interview with REIN™ President Don R. Campbell, call 1-888-824-7346. For more information about REIN™, go to www.albertarein.com   Don R. Campbell                                                           Jeff Adams President                                                                      Communications Advisor Real Estate Investment Network                                   Real Estate Investment Network 1-888-824-7346                                                               1-403-615-8747 don@albertarein.com                                             jefffadams@yahoo.com     hostMon, 08 Mar 2004 18:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:12http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/28/investing-in-your-alberta-backyard.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=28http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=28&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/28/investing-in-your-alberta-backyard.aspx Investing in Your Alberta Backyard All his life, Don Campbell has been investing in real estate. Ten years ago he started telling other people how to do it. March 2004 By Connie Van Der Byl Business in Calgary magazine There is good news and there is bad news. The bad news is that your RRSP is not exactly where you want it to be. But the good news is your property value seems to increase annually. According to the Calgary Real Estate Board, prices for residential properties in the city have been rising an average of about 8% per annum since 1996. This performance may leave Calgarians wondering whether real estate is the better investment. But, even if higher returns in residential real estate were assured, many of us might feel ill-equipped to venture down this alternate investment path. A Calgary company may have the answers. The Real Estate Investment Network is advising investors on real estate investment opportunities right here in Alberta. Through extensive research and by focusing on market fundamentals, the Real Estate Investment Network has determined that Alberta is the best place in Canada to invest in real estate until at least 2010. To the end, the company has published a report entitled, “The Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In,” which has been updated for 2003-2004. The ranking for top investment communities in Alberta include, Edmonton, Devon, Sylvan Lake, Calgary, Rd Deer, Okotoks, Lacombe, High River, Cochrane, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. Don R. Campbell, founder and president of the Real Estate Investment Network, explains that, “the economics of the province are very strong, with $80.8 billion of major project investment pouring into the province, coupled with massive inter-provincial in-migration, low tax regime, low unemployment, age of population, demographic trends, a strong housing market and positive cash-flow opportunities – all of these are better than any other province in the country, both looking back as well as looking forward.” Company Background Don Campbell began his career in aviation making real state deals on the side. He completed his first foray into residential real state when he was only 22 years old. In the early 1990’s, Campbell quit his job in Edmonton and returned to his hometown of Vancouver to establish a consulting practice that offered real estate investment and business management workshops, plus one-on-one entrepreneurial counselling. Campbell worked with a partner to develop a comprehensive real state investment teaching program that, by 1992, had evolved into the Real Estate Investment Network. The organization and its forty-year old entrepreneur have since relocated back to Alberta. According to the company’s own description, Real Estate Investment Network is an exclusive membership program which is dedicated to educating its members about how, where and when to buy Alberta real estate for maximum profit. From networking with other active investors, to having direct access to leading-edge experts and exclusive research, it is one of the most complete programs of its kind anywhere in North America. Essentially, members pay a monthly fee and receive knowledge and training via workshops, and information packages. As part of the network, members have the opportunity to make valuable contacts and access professionals in the real estate field. Members are taught a system for investment that has proven successful for many people including its developers. The Real Estate Investment Network takes emotion out of the equation and instead focuses on over twenty real estate fundamentals that affect the market. Research is completed on all the key real estate markets across Canada. Finding properties with positive cash flow, in a market with strong economic fundamentals is the goal. Campbell assures prospective members, “We do all of our own research; we have a designated staff for that. We use our research system and access facts and figures from CMHC, the specific towns, leading economist as well as political insiders. Because we are investors ourselves we want to ensure that our research is detailed and accurate, with no hype just fundamentals so we dig deep.” Membership The Calgary-based organization has grown to over 900 members from across Canada, with the majority in Alberta. Members own over 8200 properties with a combined value of more than $760 million. They pay a monthly fee of $199 for a 17-month commitment. At a recent annual awards evening, all members updated their holdings. Several have been part of the Real Estate Investment Network for more than nine years. Members are encouraged to acquire at least three investment properties in the first year of joining. Campbell says, “We find that three properties in the first year is a good guideline, it allows a beginning investor to get their feet wet slowly and to not get them selves in too deep, too fast.” Members of the Real Estate Investment Network attend three-hour evening workshops once a month, plus all-day workshops every three months. Sessions provide members with economic analysis, strategies for applying this analysis to investments, practical real state skills, sharing of information among members and the opportunity to network with other members. Membership also brings with it, among other things, access to the expertise of lawyers, accountants, and other professional as well as discounts with suppliers. Most Real Estate Investment Network members invest in residential real estate for investment purposes. “Because our clients are investors who own anywhere from one to 250 units each, we focus completely on the residential marketplace. Our research has shown that for the small investor (under 300 units), residential real estate provides them with less highs and lows when compared to the commercial marketplace,” says Campbell. This means purchasing properties that are then rented out to tenants to achieve a positive cash flow for the investor. “We have a philosophy that our tenants are actually the most important piece of the residential real estate equation. We show our clients how, by treating their tenants in unique ways, we have consistently lower vacancy rates, consistently less turn-over (move-outs) and substantially less tenant problems than the average investor.” Campbell suggests, “An investor’s time is best spent on negotiating and buying properties – not managing properties . . . Then if you are buying right, it makes sense to contract out the management to a professional management firm allowing the investor to focus on locating their next property.” Calgary homeowners who are not interested in real estate as an investment would not be excluded from membership. Campbell comments, “We have many investors who use our research to tell them how, where and when to buy their principle residence. The facts are the same except one major thing – when buying a place to live it is important to include emotion in the decision, not just cold hard facts. This is the only time I recommend an investor uses their emotions to make a decision.” Keys to Success According to the Real Estate Investment Network, success in real estate is based on three key factors: Systems: It is imperative to follow a proven real estate investment system. For Real Estate Investment Network members, this is the Real Estate ACRE System Program. “A foundational program that provides both veteran and rookie real state investors the system to cut through all of the market hype and be a very effective investor and landlord,” states Campbell’s company. The ACRE System Program provides users with time-saving techniques to narrow down the list of available properties to those that are right for investment. The program defines the three essentials to successful investing: access to capital, access to investment properties and access to economic fundamentals. The ACRE System Program is also available to those who are not Real Estate Investment Network members; however, network membership delivers ongoing economic analysis. Relationships: Campbell contends that, “the long-term relationships you have with people are the key to being successful. Whether the relationship is with a key realtor, or with quality tenants, or a great lawyer or with other investors who are supporting you – every step of the way real estate investing can be made easy if the focus comes off of bottom line profits and focuses on long term relationships.” Follow-through: “With all of the other pieces in place, all someone needs to do is take those first few steps – and sadly, this is the piece where many people allow fear to hold them back.” On a personal note, Campbell describes himself as a careful investor who follows the exact real state investment system that is taught to clients. That approach has brought him success and, in his estimation, has helped him to avoid investment horror stories.   Campbell acknowledges that he has had some surprises, as when a purchased property had seven (out of twenty) vacancies rather than the one promised by the vendor. Campbell surmised that his vendor was not focusing on relationships and limited his selling potential with Campbell and his associates as a result. The Calgary Real Estate MarketThe Real Estate Investment Network uses the analogy of the four seasons as applies to farming to illustrate cycles of real state investing. The real state seasons are: real state winter, real state spring, real state summer and real state fall. Campbell explains, “We developed this after analyzing real state cycles right back to the 40’s.”   Like farmers, real state investors are successful when purchasing properties in real state spring and selling or harvesting them in real state fall. “Real state winter is when values are dropping substantially or sitting at the bottom with not a lot of economic fundamentals driving the marketplace. It is the time to be planning, not a time for investing,” says Campbell. Real state seasons are much longer than farm seasons. Often real state spring can last three to five years or more followed by real state summer, where you increase your values substantially, which lasts another four to five years. The Network’s research indicates the Alberta real state market is currently in real state spring. Calgary’s market is about two and a half years ahead of the Edmonton marketplace, so although it is still real state spring in Calgary, it is a bit later in spring than it is in Edmonton. In “The Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In” report, Calgary is characterized as “exiting its first plateau – where values and rents did not keep pace and vacancies blipped up.” Campbell explains further, “A real state market is a living breathing entity. What inevitably happens in any boom cycle is that a market will take two breaths or breaks on its way up. These breaks, we call plateau one and plateau two are areas where rents do not increase as quickly as values (on a percentage basis) therefore making it tougher for the investor to find properties that fit the system. These plateaus also are marked by increases in rental vacancies. Then as a market leaves the plateau we see vacancy rates begin to drop coupled with an increase in rents and property values.” It is commonly held that many millionaires have been made in the real estate game. If you have the capital and/or the time and are contemplating real state investment, then you may want to investigate the Real Estate Investment Network in more depth at www.albertarein.com. Don R. Campbell, Alberta based real estate investor, consultant and director of the Real Estate Investment Network, asserts that, “we only teach what we do, and we only do what we do because it works. The research and investment systems that we share with our clients are exactly what we use when we invest.” And for Calgarians looking to purchase residential real state for their primary residence Campbell advises, “do not consider it an investment decision. Choose a place you will be proud to live in, proud to call your own. And because it is in Alberta, you will do very well over the next 10 years.” hostMon, 01 Mar 2004 20:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:28http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/13/edmonton-named-number-1.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=13http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=13&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/13/edmonton-named-number-1.aspx Edmonton Tops List of Alberta Communities in which to Invest in Residential Real Estate 7th-annual REIN™ study examined 31 of the province’s cities and towns Research Report Concludes That Some Property Owners Will Receive a 10 - 20% Increase in Their Property Values Calgary, Alberta – January 5, 2004 – Edmonton has been identified as the best community in Alberta in which to invest in residential real estate this year, in a new province-wide study by the Real Estate Investment Network or REIN™. None of 30 other cities and towns in the province that REIN™ studied offers greater potential for return on investment than Edmonton, says REIN’s seventh-annual report entitled “The Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In.” Edmonton ranked second in 2002, and first in 2001 and 2000, in similar REIN™ studies – meaning the Edmonton capital has placed first during three of the past four years. REIN’s latest 37-page report describes Edmonton as “entering the predicted real estate plateau, as the market takes a breather. Every real estate boom in history has at least two of these plateaus, which include higher vacancy rates and more stable price increases. This temporary plateau will prove to be a tremendous buying opportunity.” ‘The long-term economic fundamentals behind the Edmonton market will propel the city’s real estate and rental market through the plateau more quickly than in most cases,” REIN’s report adds. ”July 2003 saw the average real estate prices a strong 8.3-per-cent above July 2002, showing continued market strength as the plateau begins. Average rents are expected to increase a modest four to six per cent this next 12 months.” Allan Scott, President and CEO of Economic Development Edmonton, said: “We are very pleased the Real Estate Investment Network is again recognizing Edmonton as an ideal place in which to invest. REIN’s report is another credible endorsement of Edmonton’s long-term economic climate.” After Edmonton, the next-best Alberta community in which to invest is identified in the report as the nearby town of Devon – followed, in descending order, by Sylvan Lake, Calgary, Red Deer/Okotoks (tied for fifth place), Lacombe/High River (tied for sixth), Cochrane, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. Simply knowing the names of the top-ranking communities isn’t enough to guarantee success if you invest in real estate there, the REIN™ report warns: “The key is to discover what types of real estate to invest in to achieve your specific goals, and what critical due diligence you must complete before you invest. It is imperative that you follow a proven investment system before you take action.” Using REIN’s investment system, its 900-plus members (mostly in Alberta, but also in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario) have acquired more than 8,200 residential real estate investment properties that are worth a cumulative $750 million – and growing. “Since 1984, we have been studying the economic and demographic affects on the real estate in cities and towns across Canada,” said REIN™ President Don R. Campbell. “We have boiled all of the numbers down to three critical indicators called the ‘Booming Statistics.’ These three indicators, and their proper use, are described in detail in REIN’s Real Estate ACRE System Program. Over the years, we have used these indicators to discover the best towns to invest in for maximum return on investment.” To produce the “Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In” report each year, REIN™ researchers compile data from a variety of respected sources including the Alberta government, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Alberta Real Estate Council, and representatives of specific municipalities. Researchers also do extensive fieldwork – traveling to 31 Alberta communities this year to interview local officials, assess local economies, inspect local housing inventory, etc. About REIN™ REIN’s 1,000-plus members gather at carefully structured workshops each month in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto to learn and discuss the latest trends and strategies in residential real estate. They often tap into information sources not easily accessible to the general public, which gives them a distinct advantage in the marketplace. Each monthly session offers REIN™ members: • global, national, regional, and local economic updates and analysis; • strategies to apply economic analysis to specific investment opportunities; • practical skills to identify, assess, acquire and manage specific properties; • sharing and analysis of real-life case studies and success stories; • opportunities to develop joint-ventures with other REIN™ members. REIN™ also offers members an additional resources via a password-protected area on its Web site (www.albertarein.com). They include the opportunity to: • ask free-of-charge questions of respected lawyers, accountants and other financial professionals who are on retainer to REIN™; • download any of 60 real estate documents (property analysis forms, sales contracts, rental agreements, etc.) to execute real estate transactions; • advertise to recruit joint-venture partners for prospective investments. For an interview with REIN™ President Don Campbell, call 1-888-824-7346. For more information about REIN™, go towww.albertarein.com Don R. Campbell President Real Estate Investment Network 1-888-824-7346 don@albertarein.com hostThu, 01 Jan 2004 18:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:13http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/27/edmonton-earns-top-spot.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=27http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=27&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/27/edmonton-earns-top-spot.aspx Edmonton earns top spot in investment ranking Nov. 20, 2003 Murdoch Macleod Real Estate Columnist Business Edge Edmonton is in first spot and Calgary ranks fourth in a list of the 10 best places to invest in real estate around the province. The assessment boils down to single economic fundamentals, says Don Campbell, president of Alberta Real Estate Investment Network (REIN). These include the demographics of the community, such as immigration, the age of the population and the crime rate. Another is whether the local industries are cyclical. In second place is Devon, 15 minutes from West Edmonton Mall. Sylvan Lake ranks third. Red Deer and Okotoks tie for fifth place, Lacombe and High River for sixth. They’re followed by Cochrane, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. A number of factors come into play when determining a great place to invest. Campbell notes an investor can’t just go to a town on the list, buy a property and expect to make money. Nor does a good buy in one town mean that a similar product is the best deal in another town. A town or city also can’t rest on its laurels or look back to what it’s had, so an important fundamental is its entrepreneurial vision. A forward-looking attitude is one reason why Devon and Sylvan Lake rank high on the list says Campbell. Another question to ask is whether the town or city has room to develop, or is landlocked by the surrounding municipality. Several of the successful towns and smaller cities are near Calgary or Edmonton, or in the corridor between. That trends holds true in what Campbell calls the Farm Team – towns and cities that almost made the Top 10. They are listed alphabetically as Black Diamond, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Rocky Mountain House, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Turner Valley and Whitecourt. Campbell likens a real estate cycle to a farming year, though the property investing cycle is several years long, and the “seasons” three years or more. The real estate Spring is for buying, and Summer for nurturing the property. Real estate Fall is for selling properties or taking profits, and real estate Winter for planning the next buying season. REIN was formed in 1992. Its 760-plus members, mostly Albertans, gather each month to discuss market trends and strategies, mostly targeting residential real estate. REIN members own about 7,123 properties worth an average $90,600, he says. Though he dislikes using the word boom, Campbell adds: “The real estate market is a living, breathing thing. It will slow down and take a breath to catch up every boom cycle.” Meanwhile, Campbell predicts there will be at least one more plateau in the current cycle, meaning vacant apartments with values and rents not increasing as fast as usual. Such a vacancy plateau is about to occur in Edmonton – but that’s good news for investors who understand fundamentals, he says. People who have bought on emotion tend to become motivated vendors. “There are only two emotions in the real estate market. One is fear and the other is greed,” says Campbell. If you focus on fundamentals, you buy in plateaus but sell before the end of the cycle. That leaves value on the table for the next purchaser to ride part of the wave, but it is not for truly altruistic reasons. “If you shoot for the peak, you will invariably miss,” he says. “I’ve been investing since 1985 and you’ll never be able to time the marketplace.” Campbell says that in 1989 he told people it was time to sell in Toronto. “The people who got in on fundamentals got out. The people who got in on emotion rode that thing right down to the bottom.” Web watch: www.albertarein.com hostThu, 20 Nov 2003 20:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:27http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/26/red-deer-real-estate-a-good-bet.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=26http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/26/red-deer-real-estate-a-good-bet.aspx Red Deer real estate a good bet Nov. 20, 2003 Johnnie Bachusky Business Reporter Red Deer Express Red Deer has once again placed in the top five best places in Alberta to invest in residential real estate, according to a province-wide study. It’s fifth-place ranking is a significant step up after placing seventh in 2002 and 2001. The recently released 37-page study by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) noted Red Deer has ranked among the top 10 cities or towns in Alberta for six consecutive years. However, Red Deer placed fourth three years in a row from 1998 to 2000 before slipping three places the following two years. The Central Alberta city’s fifth place ranking this year – tied with Okotoks – was among 31 cities and towns surveyed in the province. After the top 10 cities and towns, the report names a “Farm Team” of other good places across Alberta to invest. The nine-member “Farm Team” includes Rocky Mountain House as a town or city that will provide the real estate or business investor with “tremendous” opportunities. “Demand for residential real estate in the Red Deer region continues to be strong,” said REIN’s latest report. “Although we have recently seen a rise in (rental) vacancy rates, a lot of that can be attributed to Red Deer being in the midst of their first ‘boom-plateau’, coupled with the easing of zoning rules allowing more basement rental suites.” The survey added Red Deer is well positioned for a prosperous future by being in the heart of the Edmonton-Calgary corridor, which a recent TD Bank report revealed had the highest GDP of any region in North America. It also noted the City of Red Deer and Red Deer County have adopted a new model of development cooperation under the Inter-municipal Development Plan. Finishing ahead of Red Deer in this year’s REIN’s ranking were Edmonton in first place, Devon in second, Sylvan Lake in third and Calgary in fourth. Lacombe and High River tied for sixth. REIN is a Calgary-based, 762-member organization that provides training, education and networking opportunities to investors. The members are mostly from Alberta but REIN also claims to have others in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. The organization further claims its members own more than 6,600 real estate properties across Canada with a total value of more than $576 million. REIN has been producing similar residential real estate studies since 1997. “Red Deer is a nice area for being in the proximity of many things, like Sylvan Lake and the mountains,” said Jeff Adams, the association’s communications adviser. “Prices are still reasonably low and there are lots of job opportunities.” hostThu, 20 Nov 2003 20:01:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/25/edmonton-gets-high-marks.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=25http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/25/edmonton-gets-high-marks.aspx Edmonton Gets High Marks Nov. 16, 2003 Edmonton Sun A new province-wide study has identified Edmonton as the best community in Alberta in which to invest in real estate this year. According to the Real Estate Investment Network's seventh annual report entitled The Top 10 Alberta Towns To Invest In, Edmonton's potential for return on investment outstripped the 30 other Alberta cities and towns included in the study. The 40-page report describes Edmonton as "entering the predicted real estate plateau as the market takes a breather. Every real estate boom in history has at least two of these plateaus, which include higher vacancy rates and more stable price increases. This temporary plateau will prove to be a tremendous buying opportunity." The report also indicates that the Edmonton market will spend a relatively short period of time at the plateau before moving on to more activity and higher prices. Rent rate hikes are predicted to average between four and six per cent next year. "We are very pleased the Real Estate Investment Network is again recognizing Edmonton as an ideal place in which to invest," said Allan Scott, president and CEO of Economic Development Edmonton. "REIN's report is another credible endorsement of Edmonton's long-term economic climate." Edmonton ranked second in the province in 2002 and first in both 2000 and 2001. REIN has over 760 members with over $500 million in cumulative investments. The network's researchers created the report using compiled data from sources which include the Government of Alberta, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Alberta Real Estate Council and municipality representatives. hostSun, 16 Nov 2003 20:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/89/devon-is-a-cantmiss-investment.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=89http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=89&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/89/devon-is-a-cantmiss-investment.aspx Devon is a ‘can’t miss’ investment REIN Places Devon Second Nov. 14, 2003 George Brown Editor Devon Dispatch News Devon is Alberta’s ‘can’t miss’ real estate investment opportunity. A province-wide annual study by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) has named Devon the second-best community in which to invest, right behind Edmonton. Devon is the best small-town choice, ahead of Sylvan Lake, Okotoks, Lacombe and High River. The study ranked 31 Alberta towns and cities for their residential real estate’s return-on-investment potential. Devon finished second in a similar REIN study in 2002, second in 2001 and first in 2000 – meaning it is a consistent winner for investments. “It’s positive news because an external organization speaks highly of our community, and they feel our community is positioned very well for the future,” said Town of Devon CAO Chris Jardine. “Their report says that Devon is in good financial shape and well-planned and well-managed.” “With an average (single-family home) real estate price of around $140,000, and a rental vacancy rate of less than one per cent, Devon will continue to be a shining star for investors in both multi-family and single-family properties,” the REIN study predicts. “The REIN reports substantiates what most residents of Devon already know – that Devon is not only a great community in which to work, live and raise families, but also a great community in which to invest in residential real estate,” said Randy Bertrand, Devon’s manager of economic development. “We find it particularly gratifying to see REIN rank us so highly year after year. Such consistent returns on investment make Devon especially attractive.” “The town of Devon is a good template for other towns,” said Don Campbell, REIN President. “We look at towns with a future – not with a past,” Campbell explained. “We always look for the opportunities that are coming to a town.” REIN sees the new ring road in Edmonton, tying the south side and west end together with a new bridge across the river, as a boon to Devon, making the town more attractive to people who want to live in a small town but who would continue to commute to work in the city. “There’s a big demand for young families to move to Devon. That’s a good thing,” Campbell said. “Young families are moving to Devon because it’s safer than raising your children up a in a large centre.” Campbell said Devon has kept pace with its infrastructure needs, and he expects the town to grow by “leaps and bounds” once services are extended across Highway 60. “That’s the one thing I see holding the town back – the lack of current land there is to develop.” Council does need to make that decision soon to maintain the momentum home builders have in the community. Builders need to build, Campbell said, and if there is no land in Devon, they’ll pack up and go where there is land and a market. Jardine is hopeful there will be a resolution in the annexation talks with Leduc County, but he sees the annexation bid across Highway 60 as just one long-range planning tool. “If we don’t get annexation done in the next few years, it doesn’t preclude us from developing across the highway,” he added. Regardless of whether Devon grows across the highway, REIN believes it will be good for investors: if Devon expands, average house prices will increase because new homes will be more expensive than the current stock; and if Devon doesn’t create new housing developments, there will be a higher demand for housing in town, driving prices up. “New Devon is going to have its own set of trails along the river. It could easily double its population and keep its small-town cache,” Campbell said. Devon is distinct from Stony Plain or Beaumont, two other towns experiencing housing booms, because those towns are seen as bedroom communities. The fact that commercial development in Devon hasn’t kept pace with residential growth is not a concern for REIN, which deals exclusively with residential investment. Devon’s proximity to Edmonton means a full range of services is a short drive away. “The people who move to small towns, the majority want to support local businesses wherever they can,” Campbell said. As the town attracts new businesses and new jobs for residents, opportunities for higher-density residential development are created. Campbell said the right developer at the right time will do well with a modest three- or four-storey walk-up apartment building. “People will not come to Devon to live in a high-rise,” he said. “People will come to Devon to live in a three- or four-storey walk-up.” Campbell said Devon has been insulated from the boom and bust cycles that have affected neighbouring communities. “The vacancy rate has never really sky rocketed and it never really collapsed.” Devon is the perfect location for a 55+ development, such as the Highpointe Gardens planned near the hospital, Campbell said. With its trails, parks and possible swimming pool and wellness centre, Devon promotes and active and supportive lifestyle for seniors. “Lifestyle is what is bringing people to your town,” he said. Devon Real Estate Facts The demand for real estate in Devon has taken a substantial jump every year since 1999. The challenge will be to continue the growth while at the same time keeping the overall character of the town intact. With an average real estate price of around $140,000 (condo $76,000) and a vacancy rate of less than one per cent, Devon will continue to be a shining star for investors in both multi-family and single-family properties. Devon Economic Facts Devon’s economic engine is distinct both as a “commuter town” and local employer. Lifestyle drives the people to move there, with the population of Devon working in varied locations and industries. 35 per cent of the people commute to Edmonton, 19 per cent commute to Nisku/Leduc/International Airport area, and 31 per cent work directly in Devon. The major industries in the town include research and development, oil and gas, light manufacturing, tourism, health, education and a burgeoning service sector. Devon’s growth has been consistent and strong for almost two decades, due to its “future look” planning, as well as its economic base. – From REIN study hostFri, 14 Nov 2003 19:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:89http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/90/calgary-among-albertas-best.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=90http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=90&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/90/calgary-among-albertas-best.aspx Calgary Among Alberta’s Best Communities in which to Invest in Residential Real Estate Ranked among top 5 of 31 towns/cities by REIN™ for six straight years Nov. 14, 2003 Calgary Real Estate News Calgary is consistently one of the best cities or towns in Alberta in which to invest in residential real estate, according to a new province-wide study by the Real Estate Investment Network or REIN™. Calgary finished fourth this year in REIN’s 7th-annual study of 31 Alberta cities and towns in terms of their residential real estate’s return-on-investment potential. Calgary was fifth in 2002 and 2001, second in 2000, and first in 1999 and 1998 in similar REIN™ studies. “In 2002, Calgary real estate entered the predicted ‘plateau,’ where values and rents did not keep pace and vacancies blipped up,” says REIN’s latest report. “We are now witnessing the city exiting this first plateau, and will start to see values once again start on their upward pace.” The 37-page REIN™ report adds: “Calgary’s corporate head offices are just a small portion of the city’s booming economy. The city has become a center for a diverse cross-section of major businesses, including high-tech, transportation, manufacturing, tourism and, of course, oil and gas companies . . . the growth of Calgary as a business center will continue long into the next decade.” Finishing ahead of Calgary in the REIN™ report’s list of the top 10 Alberta communities in which to invest in residential real estate was Edmonton in first place, followed by Devon and Sylvan Lake. Trailing Calgary (in descending order) was Red Deer/Okotoks (tied for fifth place), Lacombe/High River (tied for sixth), Cochrane, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. Simply knowing the names of the top-ranking communities isn’t enough to guarantee success if you invest in real estate there, the REIN™ report warns: “The key is to discover what types of real estate to invest in to achieve your specific goals, and what critical due diligence you must complete before you invest.” “Since 1984, we have been studying the economic and demographic affects on the real estate in cities and towns across Canada,” said REIN™ President Don R. Campbell. “We have boiled all of the numbers down to three critical indicators called the ‘Booming Statistics.’ These three indicators, and their proper use, are described in detail in REIN’s Real Estate ACRE System Program. Over the years, we have used these indicators to discover the best towns to invest in for maximum return on investment.” To produce the “Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In” report each year, REIN™ researchers compile data from a variety of respected sources including the Alberta government, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Alberta Real Estate Council, and representatives of specific municipalities. Researchers also do extensive fieldwork – traveling to 31 Alberta communities this year to interview local officials, assess local economies, inspect local housing inventory, etc. To contact REIN™ Co-Founder Don Campbell, call 1-888-824-7346. For more information about REIN™, go to www.reincanadamembership.com hostFri, 14 Nov 2003 19:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:90http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/24/market-among-best-in-province.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=24http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/24/market-among-best-in-province.aspx Market among best in province for investment Nov. 13, 2003 Steve Dills Editor Sylvan Lake News Sylvan Lake’s real estate market is among the best in Alberta for investment. The community was ranked third, behind Edmonton and Devon, in the Real Estate Investment Network’s (REIN) 2003 report, released Wednesday. The organization based its report on the return-on-investment potential of 31 Alberta cities and towns. Following Sylvan Lake on the list were Calgary in fourth place, Red Deer and Okotoks tied for fifth, Lacombe and High River tied for sixth, Cochrane in seventh position, followed by Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. Sylvan Lake has been a consistent winner for investors, said information from REIN. It was third in similar studies in 2002, 2001 and 2000. “Sylvan Lake is Alberta’s premier lake. Ninety per cent of Alberta’s population is within a 1 ¾-hour drive of the lake’s shores, creating a high demand for both recreational and residential real estate,” said the report. “Rental vacancies have been sitting at zero for the last three years. The demand is rated as ‘critical,’ which will continue to drive both rental rates and property values upwards. Rental opportunities in condominiums, single-family houses and multi-family properties should be pursued with vigour.” Speaking of economic facts, the report said, “lifestyle choice is another key factor driving the population growth in Sylvan Lake. A unique phenomenon that we’re witnessing is the ‘sanctuary’ trend. This is revealed in the instances where companies and independent contractors are locating their employees and families in the town. “These are mostly in industries where the employees work ‘in the field,’ not at a main office (ie - software companies, design companies, oil-field support companies). So when these employees do have to leave town for a project, they know that their families are living in a safe and enjoyable environment. In addition, the lifestyle that Sylvan Lake provides allows these companies to attract and keep key employees in high turn-over industries.” Real Estate Investment Network is a Calgary-based education-oriented investment group. The network has more than 760 members who pay a monthly fee for unbiased research to assist in targeting opportunities in residential real estate. hostThu, 13 Nov 2003 19:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/23/cochrane-still-top-investment-opportunity.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=23http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/23/cochrane-still-top-investment-opportunity.aspx Cochrane still top investment opportunity Nov. 12, 2003 Darryl Mills Editor Cochrane Times No doubt there are a lot of blue chip investors in Cochrane, but what is likely no surprise to anyone, the town continues to be a pretty solid investment opportunity itself. “Wake up and ‘smell the ice cream,’ Cochrane is a blue chip investment,” trumpets The Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In, a special report from Don Campbell and the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN). According to the report, Cochrane is ranked seventh of 31 Alberta towns and cities, and it is the sixth straight year Cochrane has placed in the top seven, peaking at fifth place in 2000. The town was sixth for the last two years. The report targets entrepreneurs and investors unhappy with their retirement savings plans and other stock market investments and offers real estate as a stronger investment vehicle. “Cochrane has experienced significant growth over the last 30 years, with the population more than doubling since 1991,” the report says. An upwardly mobile work force, 48 per cent of whom commute to Calgary and who bring their income back to Cochrane, combined with an economic revitalization are keys, according to the report. It says the economy in Cochrane is quite diverse for a community of this size. With oil and gas, forestry, tourism, value-added manufacturing and service industries playing the key roles in the economy, the report says, Cochrane enjoys a diversity not seen in most communities of this size. Acting Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce President Harold Shand says the report is a solid reflection of what is happening in Canada’s fastest growing community. “The REIN report recognizes that we are much more than a bedroom community for Calgary,” Shand says. “We are carving out a unique economic future -- one with exciting potential for people who live here, establish businesses here, and invest here.” And, investment is what REIN is all about. Its 700-plus members, most of whom are in Alberta but does include some in B.C, Saskatchewan and Ontario, have acquired more than 6,600 residential real estate investment properties that are worth a cumulative $500 million and growing. The company is based out of NW Calgary, where Campbell is located, and members are encouraged to identify and acquire at least three investment properties during the first 12 months. Cochrane also scored points for great golf opportunities, the mountains and a growing list of amenities for people of all ages. The town is praised for being able to offer the kind of ‘small town life’ that many people are looking for. The Downtown Revitalization project receives high praise for making Cochrane’s downtown a weekend ‘must see’ for tourists and locals alike. Due to these and other factors identified, the report says rents and property values will continue to rise. Of course, there is a downside to the report. Of the top ten cities and towns on the list, which includes Edmonton, Devon, Sylvan Lake, Calgary, Red Deer, Okotoks, Lacombe, High River, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray, Cochrane has the highest rent and property values of any, other than Fort McMurray. That fact does contribute to the continuing struggle to provide affordable housing. But, for investors, the opportunities continue to abound. hostWed, 12 Nov 2003 19:53:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/22/lacombe-ranked-sixth.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=22http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/22/lacombe-ranked-sixth.aspx Lacombe ranked sixth in province for investment Town in top 10 for six straight years Nov. 12, 2003 Globe Staff Lacombe Globe Lacombe is slowly climbing the ladder of residential real estate attraction. The town has once again been ranked in the Real Estate Investment Network’s (REIN)top 10 places in Alberta in which to invest. This year Lacombe tied with High River for sixth. Last year it was tied with Red Deer for seventh. There were 31 towns and cities included in the evaluation. Lacombe was seventh in 2001, eighth in 2000 and 1999 and seventh in 1998. REIN research reports assess communities in terms of the rates of return available from residential real estate. REIN’s latest report says Lacombe is ideally located along the booming Edmonton-Calgary corridor, only minutes from the industrial and commercial base of Red Deer, a short drive from some of the world’s largest petrochemical ‘value-added’ plants, and in a recreational playground that includes several small lakes and parklands. It goes on to say that this combination of economic, employment and recreational amenities will continue to gain the attention of potential investors. "The demand for real estate in Lacombe is rated as high, while the demand for rental properties is critical," REIN’s 37-page document says. "Currently there are only 273 official registered rental units in the town, with a 1.9 per cent vacancy rate. These vacancies show in mostly the older suites in the town, with the newer suites showing zero vacancy. The average rent for a two-bedroom suite is $561, but will continue to make dramatic steps upwards." Eric Jerrard, Lacombe’s economic development officer, said in a prepared statement: "REIN’s research has identified several key reasons--including Lacombe’s growing employment base, its recreational opportunities and its friendly small-town atmosphere--for why Lacombe will be an increasingly attractive place to live, work and invest. We welcome this report because it helps to highlight what Lacombe has to offer." Finishing ahead of Lacombe and High River in this year’s rankings were Edmonton in first place, followed by Devon, Sylvan Lake, Calgary, and Red Deer/Okotoks (tied for fifth place). Rounding out the rest of the top 10 were Cochrane, Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. But simply knowing the names of the top-ranking communities isn’t enough to guarantee success if you invest in real estate in one of those communities, the REIN report warns: "The key is to discover what types of real estate to invest in to achieve your specific goals, and what critical due diligence you must complete before you invest. It is imperative that you follow a proven investment system before you take action." Using REIN’s investment system, its 760-plus members (mostly in Alberta, but also in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario) have acquired more than 6,600 residential real estate investment properties that are worth a cumulative $500 million, and growing. "Since 1984, we have been studying the economic and demographic effects on the real estate in cities and towns across Canada," said REIN president Don Campbell in a prepared statement. "We have boiled all of the numbers down to three critical indicators called the ‘Booming Statistics.’ These three indicators, and their proper use, are described in detail in REIN’s Real Estate ACRE System Program. Over the years, we have used these indicators to discover the best towns to invest in for maximum return on investment." To produce the "Top 10 Alberta Towns to Invest In" report each year, REIN researchers compile data from a variety of respected sources, including the Alberta government, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Statistics Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Alberta Real Estate Council, and representatives of specific municipalities. Researchers also do extensive fieldwork. They travelled to 31 Alberta communities this year to interview local officials, assess local economies, inspect local housing inventory, and more. hostWed, 12 Nov 2003 19:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/21/okotoks-ranks-high.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=21http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/21/okotoks-ranks-high.aspx Okotoks ranks high on provincial real estate investment study Town in top 10 for six straight years Nov. 12, 2003 Pamela Roth Staff reporter Okotoks Western Wheel According to a new province-wide study, Okotoks has consistently ranked in the top 10 for the last six years as the best towns or cities in Alberta to invest in residential real estate. The findings come as no surprise to one local realtor in town, who has watched the real estate market steadily grow for the past five years. “The engine that drives the real estate industry is the new homes sector, and Okotoks obviously has a lot of stuff going on,” said John Fraser of Team Realty. “New homes have, typically, been going up in value as well, so that drives up the rest of the market too.” This year Okotoks tied with Red Deer to rank fifth on the list among 31 towns and cities for residential real estate investments, and was ranked fourth in the past two years. Edmonton, Devon, Sylvan Lake and Calgary all rounded out the top four. Several factors contribute to Okotoks’ high ranking, including the extension of Deerfoot Trail linking it to Calgary, the scenic location, growing employment base, and it’s welcoming small-town atmosphere. Once the Deerfoot extension is finally completed, commuting distance will be measured in time rather than kilometers, and the town’s growth is expected to skyrocket. “Calgary is a major centre that has a lot of stuff going on these days,” said Fraser. “Fortunately, all these things that create Calgary as such a strong real estate market spill over onto us and soon we will be joined at the hip with the city.” The average family income in Okotoks is a whopping $70,000 — much higher than the provincial average, and, in turn, creates endless opportunities for those wishing to invest. “It really appeals to the smaller investor,” said Fraser. “They can buy a house with a relatively smaller down payment and just rent it out, but you really have to be careful you are buying the right thing.” Currently, the demand for rentals in Okotoks is very strong with a vacancy rate hovering at less than 1.3 per cent from 157 registered rental units. The average rent of a two-bedroom suite has been increasing faster than the provincial average to sit at $731, while the average price of real estate has remained consistent at $226,281. Okotoks is currently ranked as the second-fastest growing community in Canada, and is expected to reach 13,000 by the end of the year. The study was conducted by the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) in Calgary hostWed, 12 Nov 2003 19:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/91/were-number-eight.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=91http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=91&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/91/were-number-eight.aspx We're No. 8! Nov. 12, 2003 Bill Laye Staff Writer Grande Prairie Daily Herald-Tribune In its annual survey of 31 Alberta communities, the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN) has again placed Grande Prairie in its top 10 places to invest in Alberta property. "With the rapid growth of Grande Prairie as a commercial centre, the immigration of workers and services will continue to drive rents and property values upwards," REIN's report stated. Grande Prairie placed eighth on the survey. Edmonton, Devon, and Sylvan Lake placed first, second, and third, respectively. hostWed, 12 Nov 2003 19:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:91http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/20/calgary-lags-edmonton.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=20http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=20&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/20/calgary-lags-edmonton.aspx Calgary lags Edmonton as place to invest Nov. 7, 2003 Michael Lau Calgary Herald Fourth-Place Finish: The Real Estate Investment Network issued a report Thursday saying Calgary's hot real estate prices make rental properties a better investment in Edmonton.   Soaring house prices were partly to blame for dropping Calgary to fourth place -- behind Edmonton and the towns of Devon and Sylvan Lake -- in a ranking of top places in Alberta to invest in residential real estate. Real Estate Investment Network based its report on the return-on-investment potential of 31 Alberta cities and towns. "Edmonton is No. 1 because for every dollar you put out into an investment, you will get more of a dollar back than in Calgary right now," network president Don Campbell said Thursday. "It's easier to get positive cash flow properties in Edmonton right now than it is in Calgary because the rent-to-value ratio is closer in Edmonton than it is in Calgary." Calgary's average price for houses and condominiums was $209,932 in July, more than $24,000 higher than Edmonton's $185,537 average for detached homes. "You can still make money in expensive markets as long as the revenue will allow that market to continue to go up," Campbell said. "But while revenues are lower in Edmonton than in Calgary, the values are substantially lower." Real estate officials said Calgary's ranking is probably linked to house prices, which according to the study have jumped 14 per cent since 2001. "If you're an investor and you're buying an apartment building, the same apartment building here will cost you more," said Joyce Travis, immediate past president of Calgary Real Estate Board. "I don't really think there would be much difference between Edmonton and Calgary in terms of risk. So, if you're getting more money for the same risk, your capitalization rate is better, which means it's considered a better investment."   However, Travis said Calgary and Edmonton should always receive the top rankings for investment. "Long term, you would be better off in a bigger city. There are more buyers and more people coming there to buy, so it's more of a stable market," she said. "Things can happen in small towns that can so severely affect the town that the investment potential is really harmed, and sometimes for a few years." Edmonton officials said the city is being recognized by the study as an ideal place to invest. "The report is another credible endorsement of Edmonton's long-term economic climate," said Jim Rudolph, a spokesman for Economic Development Edmonton. Despite placing fourth in the ranking, Campbell said Calgary is likely on the rise. "The demand will start to occur again, the in-migration will begin to pick up again, infrastructure dollars will start to be spent again in Calgary," he said.   "It's almost like the market took a big breath for the last eight or nine months. The values did continue to go up but were not driven by an investment opportunity. It was more market exuberance than economic fundamentals driving it at that point."   The report ranked: Edmonton, first; Devon, second; Sylvan Lake, third; Calgary, fourth; Red Deer and Okotoks, tied for fifth; Lacombe and High River, tied for sixth; Cochrane, seventh; Grande Prairie, eighth; St. Albert, ninth; and Fort McMurray, tenth. Real Estate Investment Network is a Calgary-based education oriented investment group. The network has more than 760 members who pay a monthly fee for unbiased research to assist in targeting investment opportunities in residential real estate. Top 10 Places to Invest: 1. Edmonton 2. Devon 3. Sylvan Lake 4. Calgary 5. Red Deer, Okotoks 6. Lacombe, High River 7. Cochrane 8. Grande Prairie 9. St. Albert 10. Fort McMurray hostFri, 07 Nov 2003 19:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:20http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/19/only-no-10.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=19http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/19/only-no-10.aspx Only No. 10? Real Estate Investors Rank Alberta Cities Nov. 7, 2003 Alexandria Collins Staff Writer Fort McMurray Today Fort McMurray is only the 10th-best Alberta community in which to buy real estate, according to the Alberta Real Estate Investment Network (REIN). And that comes as a big surprise to Greg Walsh, president of the Fort McMurray real estate board.  "We're in a really strong market (in Fort McMurray)," Walsh said. "There is a continually strong flow of renters. The vacancy rate here is very low." The survey, conducted by researchers sent into 31 communities, rates the communities based on capital gain and after-inflation value of real estate, Jeff Adams, spokesperson for REIN told Today. In previous years, the oilsands city has ranked as high as second place. Adams said Fort McMurray didn't rank as high this year because the value of purchasing real estate is continuing to rise, but the price investors can charge to rent the property is standing still. Ranking 10th out of 31 still tells investors "there's money to be made in Fort McMurray," Adams said. Walsh agreed. "(Fort McMurray) is still a good place to invest," Walsh said. At the beginning of the year, the average single family home cost $248,000. Now the average price is $276,500 – and the year isn't even over yet, he said. "Vacancy is so low here – that's really why I can't understand how (REIN) came up with these numbers," Walsh added. The investment market is good in Fort McMurray right now, Walsh said, "and it's only going to get better if the market stays on the same course." If Canadian Natural Resources Limited approves its Horizon Project next year and if Shell's Jackpine mine goes ahead, the market for investors will only get better, Walsh explained. "If (the projects) get the approval to go ahead – it's going to be a huge incentive for investors," he said. Walsh speculated the price of average single-family home could skyrocket to around $300,000. "Many people can't afford that," he said. "People would have to rent – creating a very good situation for investors." Walsh compared the future of real estate investment in Fort McMurray to the popular 80s hit song by Timbuk2. "The future's so bright I've gotta wear shades," he said. In the seven years REIN has been producing similar surveys, Fort McMurray has ranked second, sixth and 10th. Other top-10 finishers include (in descending order) Edmonton, Devon, Sylvan Lake, Calgary, Red Deer/Okotoks (tied for fifth), Lacombe/High River (tied for sixth), Cochrane and St. Albert. REIN has been operating for more than 10 years and has approximately 500 of its more than 760 members are Albertan, said Adams. hostFri, 07 Nov 2003 19:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/18/red-deer-sylvan-lake-in-top-10.aspx#Comments0http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=401&ArticleID=18http://www.reincanada.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=18&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://www.reincanada.com/rein-research-reports/articletype/articleview/articleid/18/red-deer-sylvan-lake-in-top-10.aspx Red Deer, Sylvan Lake in REIN’s top 10 Oct.18, 2003 Harley Richards Business Editor Red Deer Advocate Sylvan Lake has been identified as one of the best places in Alberta to invest in real estate, behind only Edmonton and Devon. A prominent real estate investment consultant has included Red Deer, Sylvan Lake and Lacombe in his list of the 12 best communities in Alberta to invest in. Don Campbell is president of the Calgary-based Real Estate Investment Network, which provides research information to investors. Its members, he said, own more than $580 million in property. Earlier this week Campbell released the seventh edition of his Top 10 Alberta Towns To Invest In. In it, he ranks Sylvan Lake third, with Red Deer tied with Okotoks for fifth, and Lacombe and High River sharing sixth place. In touting Sylvan Lake's potential, Campbell pointed to planned improvements to Hwy 11 and the town's "increasingly affluent population." He said property there is in high demand, with lakefront lots selling for $5,000 per frontage foot and up. Campbell also suggested many companies that require employees to work in the area – particularly those "out in the field" – are arranging for them and their families to live in Sylvan Lake. That makes it easier to hire and retain key workers. The attraction of Red Deer from an investment point of view includes the city's location in the bustling Edmonton-Calgary Hwy 2 corridor. Campbell said it draws from a trading area of more than 180,000 people and has an affluent population, which has resulted in a number of major retailers and service companies arriving here in recent years. Campbell cited Red Deer's access to two international airports and its proximity to industrial centres as further reason for economic growth "well into the decade." Lacombe's investment appeal also stems in large part from its position on the Edmonton-Calgary corridor, said Campbell. The Joffre petrochemical plants and the industrial and commercial base in nearby Red Deer also make Lacombe a good place to buy property. Heading Campbell's list is Edmonton, which he said leads the country in economic growth. He said Moody's Investment Services has concluded the Alberta capital has the most diverse economy of any major city in North America. The Town of Devon was second, with Calgary fourth and Cochrane seventh, followed by Grande Prairie, St. Albert and Fort McMurray. Rocky Mountain House was among a group of nine communities that Campbell feels offer very good investment opportunities but don't score as high as the top 12. Sylvan Lake also placed third on Campbell's 2002 list, with Red Deer and Lacombe tied for seventh spot. Speaking from his office in Calgary this week, Campbell said Alberta is currently a very attractive place to invest. Among the reasons for this is American demand for a secure source of oil, the province's low taxes and relatively well-educated workforce, and future access to the Alberta SuperNet – a high-speed broadband Internet and networking service. Red Deer's prospects are particularly promising, he said.   "You can't get placed much better than it is." Not only does the city benefit from the oil and gas industry, its central location makes it a good place for companies to build. Campbell anticipates other call centres like Convergys Corp. will set up shop in Red Deer. He explained these labour-intensive businesses can operate at a lower cost here than they can in larger cities. "It's cheap infrastructure." Campbell added the city is attracting people from Edmonton and Calgary who want to live in a smaller centre. The best is yet to come, he said, predicting economic growth in the region won't peak for some time. "The bottom line is we haven't seen anything yet compared to what we're going to see by 2010-2012." Campbell said he brought three busloads of prospective investors from Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario to the region in July. The group was impressed by the opportunities here. "Their jaws were dropping." hostThu, 18 Sep 2003 18:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:18