Lisa Brocklebank, The Terri Hastings Group, Keller Williams Realty Centres
613 Goderich Street N0H 2C0 Port Elgin, ON, Canada

3 Reasons You Should NOT Use an Agent! ....Did I get you?! Happy April Fools Day, everyone! No doubt I’ll have my head on a swivel for pranksters coming my way. (I highly recommend you do the same!)... In all seriousness, if you're considering selling your home without an agent ask yourself these questions before ruling it out: Do you know how to write a contract? Do you have the budget for photography and marketing? Do you know the market value of your home? Do you have a third party to negotiate on your behalf or will you be doing it directly with the buyer? Are you prepared to leave work for showings and arrange these on your own? Do you know how to prepare your home to sell for top market value? Do you know to qualify a potential buyer? Are you prepared for the process after an agreement has been reached? Keep your eyes out for the jokes today, and don't hesitate to contact me if you're considering listing your home (by owner or by agent - I'm happy to help either way!) #aprilfools #dontleavemoneyonthetable #TerriHastingsRealEstateGroup #realestateexperts #saugeenshores #brucecounty #portelgin #southampton

This prime Waterfront on the Bruce Peninsula is in an area of the UNESCO world biosphere reserve, close to Tobermory. This is a rare opportunity to own a stunning west facing waterfront property. As you approach the front door you can hear the waves lapping on shore. This is a true waterfront log home in a desirable area on the Bruce Peninsula. Main floor features open concept so no water views are missed Two bedrooms also on the main floor Cozy wood stove also offers ...economical heat Lower 5ft crawl space is enough space to store your kayaks etc. The loft offers extra space for sleeping and relaxing Or relax in the hammock and enjoy the views. The property and surrounding lands offer many opportunities with flora and fauna, rare orchids will be sited along with nature that surrounds them. This is a lifestyle envied by many; now is your chance to be one of them. List price $725,000 Contact me today for more details [email protected] (519) 881-8911

Warmer temps got thoughts of a home garden on the brain? Here are three tips if you're a newbie gardener: 1. Start small. If you’ve never gardened before, start small and learn the ropes of planting, watering, fertilizing, and picking. If all goes well, go big next year! 2. Consider a theme. Love Chinese cuisine? Focus on snow peas, radishes, cucumbers, cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, and bean sprouts. Sucker for fresh salsa (I mean, really, who isn’t?) Think tomatoes, swee...t peppers, chili peppers, onions, tomatillos, and celery (and don't forget the cilantro and cumin). 3. Plan for pests. Deer, raccoons, rabbits, and other pests love veggies just as much as you do. Ask neighbours or local garden center experts the easiest way to keep your garden pest-free. Did you know a home garden is not only magnificent for the taste buds but can also reduce stress and fend off the blues? If you’re on the fence, I say, go for it! My family and I were inspired by #dreambigurbanfarm and tried our hand at a small garden last year. And while it didn't yield a great deal, it was loads of fun watching it grow and reap what we could for fresh additions to our meals. Planning has already begun for this year's garden. #homegardening #raisedbedgarden #tomatoes #kale #cantaloupe #carrots #radishes #greenbeans #potatoes #lemongrass #TerriHastingsRealEstateGroup

Not everyone should buy a house. There I said it. (Feels strange...I'm a realtor, after all, but it’s true.) Even with the historically low-interest rates, homeownership isn’t for everyone. I’ve seen what happens when people buy without really being ready what’s meant to be an asset becomes nothing but a burden. ... Here’s the good news knowing it IS NOT the right time to buy is just as clarifying as knowing it IS the right time. To help here are five reasons NOT to buy a home right now: 1. You aren’t happy in your job and/or you’re contemplating a career change. 2. You’re hoping to travel (A LOT) once COVID restrictions lift. 3. You don’t have the best credit or the down payment funds for the house you want. 4. You tend to get antsy after living somewhere a year or two. 5. Everyone around you is doing it. (I get it. Peer pressure is real, but you CAN resist! You’re not in middle school anymore, remember?) No single one of these eliminates you from homeownership so chat with homeowners you know or a trusted realtor who can help you think through your situation and goals. #tobuyornottobuy #makeinformeddecisions #talkwithme #saugeenshoresrealtor #kwrc #TerriHastingsRealEstateGroup

No doubt you’ve heard it’s a seller’s market, but that doesn't mean buyers are getting left high and dry. All the chatter may have you wondering this week’s FAF (Frequently Asked Friday). Q: Is now a good time to buy? A: I’ve got four words for you: HISTORICALLY LOW-INTEREST RATES!!! ... Did you know interest rates reached their highest point in August 1981 when the prime interest rate was 22.751%? Yep. It's true. Now, fast forward 40 years... As of today, the prime rate across the 6 major Canadian banks is 2.45% that's incredible! If you have decent credit, steady employment, and are seriously tired of renting, consider buying! You’ll get WAY MORE house for your dollar with interest rates this low. Curious to see how much more? Let's chat! #biggerbangforyourbuck #biggerhouseforyourdollar #lowrates #kwrc #TerriHastingsRealEstateGroup

It’s the Mount Everest of questions, the big one, the one everyone wonders about, but only a few are so bold to ask. Drumroll, pleasethis week’s Frequently Asked Friday question: Q: If I can sell my house by myself, WHY do I need an agent?... A: You know what? It’s true. You CAN sell your home without an agent. But the better question is SHOULD you sell your home without an agent? Consider this true scenario for one FSBO couple: Saved $9,000 on agent commissions -- sounds great! Lost $19,000 on selling price -- sigh. Sadly, this isn’t uncommon. we see it all the time, and it usually plays out something like this: A seller puts their home up for sale by owner. Then, after weeks or months of frustration, they give our team a call to bail them out and get the job done quickly. Did you know, in fact, that 90% of FSBO FAIL to sell their home without an agent? If you want maximum profit in minimum time, you need an agent. Statistics show an agent typically gets you 25% more on the sale completely covering agent commissions! PLUS, you’ll gain an advocate , expert, and cheerleader who’s single goal is looking out for your best interest as you complete one of the largest transactions of your life! Considering selling by owner? I'd love to talk about the process and answer any questions you may have. Shoot me a message -- I'm here when you're ready! #realestateagent #realtor #terrihastingsrealestategroup #sellinghouses #buyinghomes #portelginhomes #southamptonhomes

Home fires, whether $200,000 or $7 million, are devastating and we are so sorry for anyone who has experienced this. But it is also a reminder to make sure our homes are adequately insured, regardless of situation...new build, second home or waiting for your sale closing date to protect everyone's investment. If you are unsure if your biggest investment has adequate coverage, reach out to me and I can connect you with top-notch Insurance agents in the area. ... #realestateexperts #insurance #homeinsurance #saugeenshores #portelgin #southampton #terrihastingrealestategroup https://www.owensoundsuntimes.com//recently-sold-7-million

If you’re thinking about adding real estate investor to your resume, you want to know the clearest and quickest path to a profit. So while you’ve got to be ready to ride the market’s highs and lows, here are a few common ways investors make bank month after month: 1. Long-term residential rentals: People will always need a place to live but keep in mind, location is everything when it comes to real estate. Seriously, everything!... 2. Lease purchase: Lease purchase is a smart way to get involved without having to put up significant capital. Plus, if you lock in when the market is climbing, you can potentially purchase later with built-in equity. 3. Home-renovation flips: Thanks to the popularity of home renovation shows, no explanation is needed for this one (Think Fixer Upper, Flip or Flop?, and Love It or List It). 4. Short sales: A short sale is when a homeowner is behind on their mortgage but not yet in foreclosure. This can be a great opportunity to make a quick profit without investing in lengthy renovations. 5. Vacation rentals: Investors can make some serious income from vacation rentals -- especially if the property is in an hot, in-demand tourist area, like #saugeenshores or #brucepeninsula. There are dozens of ways to make money as an investor -- too many to list here! But if you’re serious about taking the plunge, shoot me a message, and let’s set up a time to discuss. See more

Up for a virtual GRAB & GAB this week? Wanna grab a cup of coffee and gab about all things real estate -- buying, selling, neighborhoods, schools, downsizing -- anything goes! You set the agenda. I'll set the zoom. Strings? No. A stellar cup of coffee and great convo? Yes! Send me a message or comment below and I'll be in touch. ... #keepintouch #whatsthemarketdoing #heretohelp #realtorlife #terrihastingrealestategroup #realestateexperts #portelgin #southampton

We all have one -- a room, niche, alcove, or outdoor oasis that just fits; that when handed a few free hours and your favorite beverage beckons you to unwind, refresh, and recharge. Maybe it’s in your bedroom with a juicy book or binge-worthy show, in your kitchen laser-focused on an exotic recipe, or on your screened porch lounging with your four-legged BFF. What is that space for you? Where in your home do you go day after day to unwind? ... Share in the comments below -- I’d LOVE to know! See more

Are January and February good months to sell? Yes! Yes! A 1000x YES! Here’s why: 1. You’ll face less competition. 2. You’ll get lots of attention from buyers’ agents. 3. With rock-bottom interest rates, buyers are ready to purchase.... 4. Your home is still shining after the holiday rush. 5. You’ll enjoy a quick closing. Online searches for buying a home peak in January and February so if you’re thinking of selling, try to get in front of the action. Need a realtor who knows our area to help? Send me a message -- I can't wait to hear from you! See more

If you’re planning to sell in 2021, there’s no better time than now to prepare your home for the marketeven if your ideal listing timeline is months away. Here’s why: 1. Life is unpredictable. If last year taught us anything, it’s that plans change. Getting your home ready now means you’ll be ready to list your home no matter what life throws at you.... 2. It’ll reduce your stress. It’s no fun to frantically get your home ready to sell -- the cleaning, decluttering, and repairing alone can be overwhelming. With time on your side, it's totally manageable. 3. You won’t miss anything. In a seller's market, you can sell a home in lived-in condition usually without a problem. But in a buyer's market, repairs can make or break a sale. Getting your home ready little by little means every inch of your home will be in top-notch shape the second your listing goes live. Looking for a real estate professional to help you sell this year? I’d love to -- shoot me a message and let’s begin the conversation. #preptosell #heretohelp #realtorlife #realestateexpert #portelgin #southampton #terrihastingsrealestategroup

Housekeeping can be daunting. On top of the everyday tidying up (everyone pitching in 10 minutes each evening goes a long way), there's a few things that should be done each week. Here's a quick checklist to help you tackle the biggest problem areas that collect the most dirt. Change your sheets Wash towels... Dust furniture and surfaces Toss expired food Clean bathrooms Vacuum and mop floors

You've got questions. I've got answers -- a match made in heaven, I think! For the next few Fridays, I’ll share answers to some of YOUR most common real estate questions a Frequently Asked Fridays of sorts! First up? A question I often get from homebuyers: ... Q: Are kitchen appliances included in the sale of a home? A; As a general rule, if an item is built-in or attached to the home (think bookshelves, window treatments, light fixtures, etc.), it's included in the sale of the home. Kitchen appliances typically fall under this rule unless otherwise specified by the sellers. Ask your realtor for a copy of the seller’s disclosure so you can make note of any items that don’t convey. Looking to buy (or sell) and need a realtor? I’d love to chat! Send me a message and let’s connect. See more

This is my commute home after a "lockdown" day in my home office. I take 30 minutes to walk the trails behind our home and listen to a podcast to clear my mind. Currently on my list are Gary Keller's "Think Like A CEO" and Brene Brown's "Unlocking Us" (and if I'm being completely honest, there's also "Armchair Expert" and "Smartless" thrown in for some laughs). What are some other great podcasts? What are you listening too? #lovewhereyoulive #saugeenshoresstrong #portelgin #southampton #commute #podcast #unwind

As we head into cooler months, it's important to keep an eye on our indoor air quality. Read on to see how to reduce or eliminate this common problem.

Super excited for this new addition to Southampton’s Main Street.

JUST LISTED Red Bay charmer, on the Bruce Peninsula. Perfect entry level cute and cozy year round recreational property. An easy walk or bike to Red Bay beach with nightly sunsets. MLS#: 40030722

The pandemic is not over yet. Be sure to keep those lines of communication open with your lenders.

A few changes this year, but the festivities continue. Click the link below to see the giant veggie weigh off and more Pumpkinfest favourites!

Even though all three categories are down from last week, the numbers prove that homes are selling quickly in Grey, Bruce and Owen Sound. Locally, Saugeen Shores numbers closely echo the overall supply, with less than a months inventory available for sale.

We have amazing and generous businesses in Saugeen Shores! This is just one example. Thanks Seaman and Sons Builders!!

Whether you have an hour or a day, check out this list of to-dos to get your home ready for fall. What's the most important thing you do to get ready for the changing season?

Congratulations to our sellers! If youre considering selling your home, we would love to help!

Congratulations to our Sellers! Wishing you all the best!

Congratulations to our sellers! If you're considering selling your home, we would love to help!

ENTER OUR SUMMER PHOTO GIVEAWAY! Every Friday for the next 5 weeks we will be giving away 2 Blue Heron Sunset Cruise Gift Certificates. TO ENTER POST A PHOTO O...F YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN TOBERMORY ON OUR PAGE AND CAPTION IT WITH WHY IT IS YOUR FAVORITE & LIKE THIS POST! For an extra entry share this post. Winners will be announced Friday, August 28th!

We are open! Shop Local

Next to searching and offering on your new home, packing and moving is the next stressful part of the journey. Heres 7 tips to minimize that stress: 1. Create a master plan and schedule to understand the big picture - By creating a calendar of events, you will have a visual of all tasks required and a motivating snapshot of your progress. 2. Declutter before you move - Making the tough decisions now on what to keep and what to get rid of will make your unpacking at your new ...home much smoother. And who wants to move things twice? 3. Remove unwanted items from your home - Once youve identified all the unwanted/unneeded items are gone, you will have more space to focus on the task of packing. 4. Keep track of your packed boxes - Numbering your boxes and keeping a list of whats inside each box (if you have time) with a short description like Kitchen - Baking supplies, Living Room - Remotes, lets you keep track of all boxes and unpacking easier. 5. Pack essentials for the first few days - Include all the things you would need if going on a weekend trip (change of clothes, toiletries, pet food) and labelling boxes with "Pack Last Open First" gets those items to you quicker at the final destination. Other items to consider? Toilet paper, scissors, bedding, cleaning supplies. 6. Keep valuable items with you - Aside from irreplaceable jewellery items, important paperwork (passports, deeds, SIN cards), medications, and electronics should travel with you. 7. Delegate, delegate, delegate - depending on your budget, this can mean hiring professional movers or asking a friend to bring a meal on moving day. If you want a more detailed plan of attack, please contact me and I can walk you through this daunting task! (519) 881-8911

Three of my four reasons why. Whats your reason for why you do what you do?

Who needs a change of scenery? Use these four backyard home offices for some inspiration.

Saugeen Shores is a great place to work, live and play! Looking for a career that lets you enjoy our beautiful community year round? The Town of Saugeen Shores is hiring. Check it out!

The heat has also been turned up on the real estate market. Give me a call if you are thinking of buying or selling!

Although the yearly meteor shower started in the middle of July, tonight is the beginning of its peak (August 11-13). Get outside, find a dark sky spot away from town and settle in for some spectacular stargazing!

Check out those weekly stats...lots happening in our area!

Stunning home with amazing Colpoys Bay views!

This week shows a slight slowing of market activity. Is it a trend or a momentary blip? Give me a call if you are looking for more market information.

Congratulations to our Sellers!!!

Slight changes in the market this week, but the new listings and sold firm properties remain steady. What does that mean for you, buying or selling? Give me a call and lets discuss your options. (519) 881-8911

With about 3,300 sq ft of living space, 3 kitchens and 3 full bathrooms, this residential property is prime for multiple living units. Give me a call to discuss the income possibilities (519) 881-8911

Lots of new listings this week! Give me a call to see how you can get in on the action (519) 881-8911

Stunning home and views of Colpoys Bay

Southampton, Ontarios main street is getting a new business! Super excited for this beautiful ladys new adventure! Cant wait to see how you transform this space and make it your own.

Check out this sweet renovation! Could you live in this?

Thanks Town of Saugeen Shores! Many, people use this trail for walking, biking and running. Enforcement is the next step!!

For the third straight week, new listings are down. Thinking of selling? Now is the time, with few properties on the market and lots of buyers needing to buy.

Important information below Be sure to click on the See More to read the full post from our local health unit

Still a sellers market out there! Check out these weekly stats from our local real estate board.

So proud to be a part of this amazing team! 2019 Keller Williams International Platinum Award earners!!

Challenge #10 - Here it is..the final challenge! How many did you complete? Does your home feel lighter? Be sure to complete all 10 and send an email to [email protected] to be entered to win $1,000

Another strong week in real estate!

Challenge #9 - Nearing the end of the challenges. Most companies that we as homeowners and consumers use have this option available to us.

Challenge #8 - There are plenty of attractive choices out there now.

Challenge #7 - grab a coffee and give this challenge a shot. This will make more of an impact than you think!

Challenge #6 - While it may cost a little more up front, this challenge will save you lots in the long run. Whos made the switch?

Challenge #5 - There are a few avenues to choose from...kijiji, local Super Swap Buy & Sell, garage sales (when safe to do so). Are there any other sites you use that I am missing?

This weeks stats appear slightly down from last week but properties sold firm are well over the average for the past 6 weeks. What does this mean for you? Give me a call; Id love to chat!

Congratulations to our Seller!

Heres your next challenge! Phantom power...this one is tougher to see, but it exists all over your home.