Be an optimist, now is the time to buy.

The present market condition is ideal for the first time buyer and the move up buyer. Generally, prices are down 7 to 10 % lower than last year, our pricing is similar to early 2007. Houses less than $500,000 are still selling fairly quickly. The $500,000 to $800,000 range has come down in price and the over one million range is the hardest to sell with the biggest reductions. First time buyers are able to see what is out there without the pressure of multiple offers. Move up buyers can now afford houses they could not hope to buy last year. They also have the opportunity to purchase these homes conditional on the sale of their home, a clause we haven't been able to use in years. Be smart and use these uncertain times to your advantage.

Residential solar thermal systems

Green home renovations are on the rise with government incentives. Solar thermal hot water systems got the greatest boost. The federal government increased it's rebate from $500 to $1,250. Ontario has promised to match it so they would also increase their rebate from $500 to $1,250. So, anyone who purchases and installs a residential solar hot water system will get $2,500 back. These systems can be bought for as low as $6,000, not bad!