Moving to Barrie has never been better!

With a stunning waterfront, a vibrant downtown and great parks and schools, Barrie is an amazing place to call home!

Affordability for first time buyers still exists in our area!  It is more affordable to carry a mortgage than it is to pay rent to your landlord every month - by far!  You may be surprised to learn that you could qualify for a mortgage, so don't be afraid to contact me and ask how to find out.

Whatever your real estate plans are, I have over 11 years of full-time experience to help you get there! 

Check out www.movingtobarrie.com ,  a simple website designed to highlight your home, the beauty of Barrie and area and to let you know a little about myself.  This is not a site cluttered with an over-abundance of information, on purpose!  This site is simplified because the most important things when selling your house or buying a new one are using an experienced, knowledgeable professional, and choosing someone who puts your needs and interests first!

Now, check out what's going on in and around Barrie in the month of June.  Details and more information on the listed events can be found at www.tourismbarrie.com.

June

Lawn Chair Luminata - Outdoor Film Series
Event Start Date:06/04/2014 9:00 PM
Event End Date:08/27/2014 11:59 PM
more... Date: June - August, 2014 Location: Waterfront - Heritage Park and Centennial Park Contact: www.barriefilmfestival.ca Description:  The Barrie Film Festival invites you to enjoy a free outdoor screening in the park. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for a film under the stars. Seven free outdoor screenings this year in Barrie's downtown and on the beautiful waterfront. Select Wednesdays during JUne, July & August. Event Time: At dusk, approximately 9:15pm Admission: Free

 

32nd Annual Spring Automotive Flea Market
Event Start Date:06/05/2014 7:00 AM
Event End Date:06/08/2014 7:00 PM
more... Date: June 5 - 8, 2014 Location: Burls Creek Family Event Park, 8th Line of Oro, Oro-Medonte Contact: (705) 487-3663; www.burlscreek.com Description: Canada's Finest Automotive Flea market offers everything from collectibles & classic cars to those hard to find car parts. If you can't find it here, you can't find it here, you can't find it anywhere. It's a car lover's dream - Car Sales Corral, Sunday Auto Auction, Show & Shine and thousands of vendors. You won't believe your eyes, Bring your friends & Family and stay in our convenient campground. One of the largest of its kind in North America. Something for everyone, from t-shirts to Model T’s. Event Time: Thurs - Sat: 7am - 7pm; Sun: 7am - 5pm Admission:  $10.00 Daily Admissions $20.00 Weekend Pass (Thursday-Sunday) $5.00 Parking Fee per Vehicle

 

The Kool FM Barrie Jazz & Blues Festival
Event Start Date:06/05/2014 11:00 AM
Event End Date:06/16/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: June 5 - 16, 2014 Location: Various Venues Throughout Barrie Contact: (705) 739-9444; www.barriejazzbluesfest.com Description: Featuring some of the best Canadian and International Jazz and Blues artists performing on over 25 venues throughout the Barrie area. Event Time: Various times, please visit www.barriejazzbluesfest.com for a full schedule.

 

Celebrate Barrie's Youth Battle of the Bands
Event Start Date:06/06/2014 7:00 PM
Event End Date:06/06/2014 11:00 PM
more... Celebrate Barrie’s Youth Battle of the Bands! Presented by the City of Barrie Friday, June 6, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Centennial Park The fourth annual Battle of the Bands will be kicking off Celebrate Barrie. Selected bands will take the stage and be judged by a panel of local musicians for the chance to win prizes. The event will feature up to six musical performances at Centennial Park from 7 to 10 p.m. and will highlight Barrie and area’s young musical talent. This free musical showcase promotes Barrie’s up-and-coming young bands while providing a fun and entertaining show. If you are a young musician, come out and show off your talent, and if you’re a fan of local music, come out and support our young artists. Interested in performing? Band members must be under 21 years of age Submit band bio along with recorded music or links to recorded music to the Department of Culture, 56 Mulcaster Street, or to adyke@barrie.ca (contact 705-739-4285 for more info) Submission deadline is 4:30 pm Wednesday, April 30th Great prizes for the winners, including recording time at One Star Studio, gift certificate from Music Pro and performance time at Canada Day or Kempenfest.

 

15th Annual Celebrate Barrie
Event Start Date:06/07/2014 10:00 AM
Event End Date:06/07/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: June 7, 2014 Location: Barrie Waterfront, Kempenfelt bay Contact: (705) 739-4299; www.barrie.ca Description: Celebrate our community with free family fun! The festivities will include rides and inflatables, petting zoo and animal displays, local entertainment, historic village and re-enactments, and over 50 community groups providing hands-on activities for kids. Event Time: 10am - 5pm Admission: Free

 

Wheels & Tracks in Motion
Event Start Date:06/07/2014 10:00 AM
Event End Date:06/08/2014 4:00 PM
more... Date: June 7 - 8, 2014 Location: Simcoe County Museum, 1151 Highway 26, Minesing Contact: (705) 728-3721; museum.simcoe.ca Description: Browse through the vintage construction equipment, tractors, classic trucks and other historic pieces set up around the Museum grounds.  Take a wagon ride out to the gravel pits to see live demonstrations of steam powered rollers and shovels, vintage road building equipment, rock crushing, grading, hoisting and much more.  Kids of all ages will love the hands-on, up-close experience of watching these machines in action! In addition to the machinery displays and demonstrations, you will be able to stroll around the Museum grounds and see the permanent displays, as well as visit the indoor galleries and vendor area.  Refreshments are available at the concession booth.  Regular Museum admission rates apply. Get your inner kid in gear and join us at the Museum for an unforgettable day of historical construction equipment in motion! Event Time: 10am - 4pm Admission: $6.00

 

Legend Races at Sunset Speedway
Event Start Date:06/07/2014 6:30 PM
Event End Date:06/07/2014 11:59 PM
more... It’s that time of the week for you to feel the rush! This Saturday June 7th at 6:30 PM we are starting a grand day of races - It’s legends weekend at Sunset Speedway! Prepare for the most diverse day of racing this month as we are host to 4 different race series on Saturday. Prepare to enjoy our legends races where we pit rookies that have never raced before on the same track with veterans that have raced for years. The legends races are the most affordable, competitive and fun for amateur and advanced racers - its the series that fans want to see and drivers want to race in. Following our legends races are the Canadian Vintage Modifieds where you can see your favorite classic Canadian modified cars battling it out for the win. Stay for the exciting Hurricane Midgets. This unique series features ¼ scale sprint style cars powered by snowmobile engines! The hurricanes are just entering their 2nd race in the series. Come see the tension rise as current leader John Karley fights to keep his spot from 2nd place rival Brian Atkinson. Finally, the super fun mini stocks will be speeding down the oval track to bring in the night. Purchase tickets online or come down to Sunset International Speedway at 6918 Yonge St in Innisfil to purchase general admission tickets. It’s always smart to show up early to get your tickets and seats - gates are open 90 minutes prior to race starts. Want to know more? See our race schedule at SunsetSpeedway.ca or call us at 705 436 2445! You don’t want to miss this weekend - its going to be legendary!

 

Tribute to the Beatles
Event Start Date:06/07/2014 7:30 PM
Event End Date:06/07/2014 9:30 PM
more... Date: Saturday June 7, 2014 Location: Hi-Way Pentecostal Church, 50 Anne Street North, Barrie Contact: BarrieConcertBand@gmail.com Description: The band will pay tribute to the Beatles' 50th anniversary of their U.S. debut to appear on the ED Sullivan Show in February 1964. Music has never been the same since. Event Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm Admission: Adults - $15; Seniors - $10; Student (with ID)/Children over 5 - $10; Children 5 and under - Free Tickets will be available at the door and the following outlets in May: - Tourism Barrie - Southshore Centre, 205 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie - Other Locations TBA: See www.barrieconcertband.org for updates

 

National Aboriginal Day
Event Start Date:06/20/2014 10:00 AM
Event End Date:06/20/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: June 20, 2014 Location: Sainte Marie among the Hurons, 16164 Highway 12 East, Midland Contact: (705) 526-7838; www.saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca Description:  The Huron (Wendat) people are integral to the Sainte-Marie story, and the historic site continues to share aspects of Aboriginal culture today. Join us on National Aboriginal Day June 20 and at the Aboriginal Festival June 21-22, as we pay tribute to Canada's First nations with drumming, dancing, singing, special on-site activities, and displays. On-going activities throughout the day will include: Children's crafts, displays, First Nations food, 17th century fire-starting, bracelet making, clay workshop, basket making demonstrations, First Nations Games and much more. Event Time: 10am - 5pm Admission: Adults $12.00 Seniors (65+) $10.00 Students (13+) $10.50 Youth (6-12) $9.25 Children 5 years and under free

 

Canadian All Truck Nationals
Event Start Date:06/21/2014 12:00 AM
Event End Date:06/22/2014 12:00 AM
more... Date: June 21 - 22, 2014 Location: Burl's Creek Family Event Park, 8th Line Oro Medonte Contact: (705) 487-3663; www.burlscreek.com Description: Big Rig Show & Shine, Antique Trucks, displays and more. Event Time: TBA Admission: $15.00 Daily

 

MEC Paddlefest Barrie
Event Start Date:06/21/2014 9:00 AM
Event End Date:06/21/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: June 21, 2014 Location: Centennial Beach Park, Lakeshore Drive, Barrie Contact: barriepaddlefest@mec.ca; http://events.mec.ca/event/15373/mec-paddlefest-barrie Description: Dive into the world of kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding. We’ve got lots on deck at our paddling festival – and everyone’s welcome. You can go for a test paddle, learn skills at a clinic, browse exhibitor’s booths, and hunt for deals at the Paddle Swap.  Bring your friends and family, and celebrate the fun of floating. Event Time: 9am - 5pm Admission: Free entry/ $10 each clinic

 

Aboriginal Festival Weekend
Event Start Date:06/21/2014 10:00 AM
Event End Date:06/22/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: June 21 - 22, 2014 Location: Sainte Marie among the Hurons, 16164 Highway 12 East, Midland Contact: (705) 526-7838; www.saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca Description: The Huron (Wendat) people are integral to the Sainte-Marie story, and the historic site continues to share aspects of Aboriginal culture today. Join us on National Aboriginal Day June 21 and at the Aboriginal Festival June 21-22, as we pay tribute to Canada's First nations with drumming, dancing, singing, special on-site activities, and displays.  On-going activities throughout the day include: Children's crafts, displays, First Nation Artisans, Make corn husk figures, First Nations Foods, 17th century fire starting, bracelet making, cly workshop, basket making demonstrations, First Nations games and much more. Event Time: 10am - 5pm Admission: Adults $12.00 Seniors (65+) $10.00 Students (13+) $10.50 Youth (6-12) $9.25 Children 5 years and under free

 

10th Annual Kids Fishing Day
Event Start Date:06/22/2014 9:00 AM
Event End Date:06/22/2014 1:00 PM
more... Date: June 22, 2014 Location: Heritage Park Contact: www.teachakidtofish.com Description: Our goal is to offer children an opportunity to experience fishing, learn about conservation, and have lots of fun, compliments of the Kempenfelt Rotary Club and our corporate sponsors. This event is open to children 13 years of age and under. Required: 1. A guardian. 2. A fishing rod. 3. Internet Registration. 4. A signed Release Form. 5. Appropriate clothing for weather (i.e., sunscreen, hats, rain gear, etc.) Provided: 1. Entertainment, games, fun park and crafts. 2. Bait. 3. Some fishing rods and tackle will be available on a loan basis by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Event Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm Registration begins at 9am and continues until 11am (Registration table located at the Spirit Catcher) Admission: Free

 

Colour Blast
Event Start Date:06/28/2014 9:00 AM
Event End Date:06/28/2014 5:00 PM
more... Date: Saturday June 28, 2014 Location: Hardwood Ski & BIke, 402 Old Barrie Road West, Oro Contact: info@canadiancolourblast.ca; www.canadiancolourblast.ca Description: A new colour-throwing run is hitting Canadian cities this summer! Canadian Colour Blast is a 5km non-timed colour throwing fun run that is suitable for all levels of fitness and all ages (yes, even the little ones can join you)! The philosophy behind the run is Maximum Colour. Maximum Fun. So, grab your best friends, family, or colleagues and join us! We are blasting through Barrie on Saturday, June 28th. The fun starts at registration and ticks into high gear at the starting line where our high-energy emcees will get participants dancing, singing, laughing and ready to run. Oh yeah...there might be some colour throwing there too. As the participants finish the race, they will head over to the festival stage for some more music, dancing and colour. To register visit www.canadiancolourblast.ca

 

38th Annual Promenade Days & Canada Day
Event Start Date:06/28/2014 10:00 AM
Event End Date:07/01/2014 7:00 PM
more...

 

Winter is nearing an end and Barrie Real Estate is heating up!

If you haven't dragged your feet or screamed in a pillow about how much you have disliked this winter, then you must live somewhere else!  It's certainly not just central Ontario that's been suffering.  Southern Ontario, the east and certainly the western parts of Canada have all endured a seemingly never-ending and very trying winter. 

All that is about to change though, and with that change, home buyers are coming out of hibernation! 

My primary business has gravitated towards helping Buyers move to Barrie, move-up or scale down in the city and surrounding area and acquire investment properties.  I myself have acquired 3 over the years and have turned a decent profit on all of them, thanks to 'knowing my stuff' and simply making smart choices.  It takes an aggressive and on-the-ball professional to make these dreams a reality for buyers and investors.  One, because the market is fast moving and competitive and two, because good advice from an experienced professional is key to such an endeavor.

Having said the above, I list properties as well, and I am 'itching' to do more of that!  My listings sell quickly thanks to staging, quality photos, web marketing and exposure.  Getting top dollar with little aggravation to my Sellers is rewarding, for both of us!  Problem solving, should something arise, is something I thrive at as well.  I just worked through a potentially devastating home inspection issue on a recent sale that could have went either way - a failed sale for my client, or a comfortable resolution to both parties.  With patience, experience and a step, by step approach, we came to a comfortable resolution and all parties are quite pleased! 

A Realtors worth is something we as Realtors are constantly defining and in some case, justifying.  I have many repeat clients that require no justification at all.  I have saved deals and resolved issues that enabled them to move on, or move in, and for that they know my worth, and keep calling me for my services!

We are not all the same though.  Realtors are very different.  There are the 'Get Rich Quick' Realtors.  The "I want to be #1 Realtor' who end up putting their clients on an assembly line, etc...

Then there are the Realtors who work full-time, 7 days a week and are always available to take your call.  For 11 years this has been the way I work.  No need to be #1, or have a 10 person team, but simply provide you with the best service and expertise possible.

My support system is well in place including receptionists, secretaries, managers and an internationally recognized brand that I am proud to stand behind.  Referrals to lawyers, Home Inspectors, Stagers, Painters and Handymen are at my fingertips and all of them I have worked with for many years and refer with confidence to my valued clients.

By building more relationships, by putting more smiles on the faces of my clients and by being an ethical and honest professional, I have built a rewarding real estate career.

Pass the word around that I am never too busy for your referrals and your new business.  Visit www.movingtobarrie.com for a peak into my business and call me directly for more information - 705-627-3530.

 

In a few months, you could be sitting on one of the many beautiful beaches in Barrie, soaking up the sun!

Barrie Real Estate in 2014!

Barely into 2014, I have already been receiving calls from eager buyers!  The local real estate market was strong in 2013 and confidence by people entering the market or looking to move-up, is definitely paving the way for a promising 2014.

Low inventory is a persistent problem, so if you are considering a move give me a call!  It is never too early to start making a list of the things to do to get your home ready for the market.  I can help you compile that list and make a solid plan on what to do to get the most money for your home.

In May I will begin my 12th year as a professional Realtor.  My business is primarily through repeat clients and referrals, however I am never too busy for new clients. 

It is always a pleasure helping someone reach their real estate dreams, whether it be a family home, a recreational property or building a portfolio of investment properties.

May you have a prosperous and healthy 2014 and call 'Rebecca from Remax' for your Barrie and area real estate needs!

www.movingtobarrie.com

Here we are, nearing the end of a beautiful fall in Simcoe County and the Holiday Season is quickly approaching. 

As 2013 draws close to an end, I have seen the real estate market pick up with a flurry of people wanting to be in their new homes for Christmas.  At this time, it is almost wishful thinking, though starting the New Year off in your new home can still be a reality!

My clients get to enjoy home made treats (by a local baker friend), delivered to their door for the holidays as a thank you for their continued support and loyalty through-out the years.  Being a boutique realtor, this is just one of the personal touch services I provide to my clients. 

Last weekend I celebrated the sale of a home with clients that have purchased and sold through me 4 times since we met.  The homes they purchase are for personal use, not investment, so our relationship spans 10 years and through 2 generations in the family.  I look forward to helping them again in the future.  It's this kind of trusting, long term relationship I have built a rewarding and successful business on.

Market news has remained the same since my last blog.  Inventory remains low and demand high, especially in the first time buyer and investment markets.  Just yesterday I successfully negotiated a purchase for my buyer client, but not without difficulty.  The home he offered on came on the market yesterday morning and by the time our offer was presented, we were competing with 2 others.  It is through experience and professional guidance that he was able to secure the property and beat out the other 2 offers.  Congratulations Mickey!

If you've ever wondered about moving to Barrie and are curious about what this beautiful city and area have to offer, do not hesitate to contact me.  It is always a pleasure to show off the area I call home and inform others exactly why this is an incredible place to live!

As always, www.movingtobarrie.com is your one stop website for professional real estate services in the Barrie area!



A shot of the marina at the waterfront taken in late September.

Our spirit catcher at Barrie's waterfront.



Real Estate in Barrie has been busy so far in 2013!

It's been far too long since my last post and though my intentions were to blog more often, this has simply been a busy real estate summer!

July 2013 has been one of my busiest July's in over 10 years serving the Barrie area. 

Prices continue to climb and inventory continues to be rather low.  I've had many more buyers than sellers so far this year and finding good properties has been a challenge!

My love affair with this beautiful area continues and each day I see something that reminds me how lucky I am to live here.

Barrie, Springwater, Oro Medonte, Innisfil, Essa and all of the surrounding areas are filled with charming homes, friendly people, activities for the entire family and communities that make it a pleasure to come home at night.

If you are even thinking about moving to Barrie or surrounding area, give me a call or send me an e-mail!  As always, it would be my pleasure to show you what an incredible place this is and everything it has to offer!

With many thanks to photographer friends I have in the area, I will be posting more frequent photos of the area.  These friends have individual websites with more photos, so be sure to check them out!

One last piece of advice when looking to move to the Barrie area - interview and contract (that's right, CONTRACT, so they are under contract to protect your best interests) a seasoned and local real estate professional.  I guarantee it will save you money, ensure your family or yourself are in a good area and be the wisest thing you can do to protect your next real estate investment! 

There are more excellent Buyer tips on my website under the Buyers page.  Go to www.movingtobarrie.com to look them over.

The talented Colin McSweeney shows off Barrie's waterfront in some beautiful and serene shots.

It certainly is beginning to look alot like Christmas!  We've had some snow, it went away, but mother nature has been toying with us ever since with record breaking highs earlier this week, and now back to freezing temperatures. 

None of this has detered people from shopping for houses though!  I am enjoying one of my busiest November's and December's since I began my career in real estate 10 years ago. 

With a couple of great new listings coming up next week and a couple of sales under my belt this week, I am happy to be busy working with loyal clients who come back to me over and over to help them with their real estate needs. 

A renewed faith in my belief that a Boutique Realtor, such as myself is THE BEST way to go, is showing in my sales and activity over the last few months.

Proudly NOT a Big Box Store Realtor, I offer one on one service, customized marketing plans using all of the latest marketing methods and direct contact to me at any time.  You will never feel like a number, like you are on an assembly line or like I am only interested in being #1, when you work with me. 

When you work with me, you are #1!

 

Check out www.movingtobarrie.com to get a little insight at what Barrie and area has to offer. It's a beautiful place to live, and if that's your dream, I would love to help make it come true!