Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Thinking About Selling Your Brantford Home Yourself? Before You Go FSBO, Read This.

Selling a home without a REALTOR® — commonly known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO) — can sound like a simple way to save money on commission. But the amount you save upfront isn't the only number that matters.

📖 Read the full guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/selling-your-brant…

The bigger question is: How much will you actually net when your Brantford home is sold?

Before deciding to sell privately, consider these important factors:

💰 1. Pricing your home correctly
An online estimate isn't a complete pricing strategy. Your home's value can be influenced by recent comparable sales, neighbourhood, condition, upgrades, lot, home style and competing Brantford listings. Price too high and buyers may overlook your property. Price too low and you could leave money on the table.

📸 2. Getting maximum exposure
Professional photography, video, MLS exposure, social media and targeted digital marketing can help your property reach more potential buyers. Strong presentation can also influence how buyers perceive your home's value.

🤝 3. Negotiating the entire offer
The highest price isn't automatically the strongest offer. Deposits, financing, inspections, conditions, inclusions and closing dates can all affect a transaction. FSBO sellers may also be negotiating directly with experienced buyer representatives.

📑 4. Managing contracts and deadlines
A real estate transaction involves legally binding agreements, disclosures, conditions and important deadlines. Details matter from the initial offer through closing.

📊 5. Looking at your net proceeds
Instead of asking only, “How much commission can I save?”, consider asking, “Which selling strategy gives me the strongest overall result after all costs?”

If you're considering selling your home yourself in Brantford, Ontario, understanding the advantages, risks and true costs of FSBO can help you make a more informed decision.

Thinking about selling? Contact Terry Summerhays | The Terry Summerhays Team | RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.

1 day ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 When Is the Best Time to Sell a Home in Brantford, Ontario? Is Spring Really the Best Season?

Many Brantford homeowners assume they should wait until spring to put their home on the market. While spring traditionally brings more buyers, the best time to sell your Brantford home may have more to do with current market conditions, your home’s preparation and your personal timeline than the season itself.

📖 Read the full guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/best-time-to-sell-…

🌷 Spring: Typically brings strong buyer activity, but also more competing listings.

☀️ Summer: Activity may slow slightly with vacations, but serious buyers are still searching.

🍂 Fall: Can bring motivated buyers and fewer competing homes, giving a well-presented property an opportunity to stand out.

❄️ Winter: Usually has fewer buyers, but those actively searching may be highly motivated — and sellers often face less competition.

So, when should you sell your home in Brantford?

Rather than choosing a month based on a general rule, look at what is happening in the Brantford real estate market right now.

Important factors include:

✅ Current inventory and competing listings
✅ Recent comparable home sales
✅ Buyer demand in your neighbourhood
✅ Interest rates and buyer confidence
✅ Your home’s condition and presentation
✅ Your pricing and marketing strategy
✅ Your own moving timeline

A home that is properly priced, prepared and professionally marketed can attract buyers in any season. Waiting for the “perfect” month may not always produce the best result if market conditions are already working in your favour.

📍 Buyer demand can also vary between Brantford neighbourhoods, including the North End, West Brant, Brier Park, Henderson, Greenbrier, Fairview, Echo Place, Cedarland, Holmedale and other areas of the city.

Thinking about selling and wondering whether now is the right time to list your Brantford home? Start with current local data and a personalized selling strategy.

📞 Terry Summerhays — REALTOR®
The Terry Summerhays Team
RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.
📱 519-802-8770
🌐 www.ViewBrantfordHomes.com

5 days ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Thinking About Buying a Home in Henderson, Brantford, Ontario?

If you’re looking for an established Brantford neighbourhood with mature trees, attractive streets and a variety of homes, Henderson is worth exploring.

👉 Read the full Henderson Home Buyer Guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-h…

Henderson offers buyers character, space and convenient access to everyday amenities.

🌳 Why do buyers consider Henderson?

✅ Established streets with mature trees
✅ Older character homes and renovated properties
✅ Homes ranging from smaller residences to larger family homes
✅ Convenient access to shopping, restaurants and services along King George Road
✅ Easy access to Highway 403
✅ Close to parks, green space and the Brantford Golf & Country Club

🔎 What should you look for when buying in Henderson?

Because many Henderson homes were built decades ago, condition can vary significantly. Before making an offer, pay close attention to the roof, electrical system, plumbing, heating and cooling, windows, foundation and basement.

If a home has undergone major renovations, understand what work was completed and whether appropriate permits were obtained. A professional home inspection can also be valuable when purchasing an older property.

💰 How should you compare Henderson home prices?

Don’t rely only on the overall Brantford average. A smaller character home shouldn’t be compared directly with a much larger or extensively renovated property.

Instead, review recent sales of similar Henderson homes based on size, lot, condition, renovations, features and location.

Thinking about buying a home in Henderson, Brantford? Terry Summerhays and The Terry Summerhays Team at RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc. can help you compare properties, review recent neighbourhood sales and make a more informed buying decision.

📞 Terry Summerhays: 519-802-8770
🌐 www.ViewBrantfordHomes.com

#HendersonBrantford #BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordHomes #BrantfordRealtor #BuyingAHome #BrantfordOntario #TerrySummerhays

6 days ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Selling a Home in Brantford, Ontario? Avoid These 5 Costly Mistakes Before You List!

Selling your home is a major financial decision, and a few common mistakes can potentially cost you money, reduce buyer interest, or keep your property on the market longer than expected.

📖 Read the full Brantford home seller guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/5-costly-mistakes-…

Here are 5 mistakes Brantford home sellers should avoid:

❌ 1. Overpricing your home
Pricing based on emotion or an online estimate instead of current Brantford comparable sales can cause buyers to overlook your property.

❌ 2. Skipping preparation and staging
Decluttering, completing minor repairs and presenting your home properly can help make a stronger first impression—especially in online listing photos.

❌ 3. Relying on passive marketing
MLS and a yard sign are only part of the strategy. Professional photography, video, social media and targeted digital marketing can help your home reach more potential buyers.

❌ 4. Negotiating without a clear strategy
Price, conditions, closing dates and buyer motivation all matter when evaluating and negotiating an offer.

❌ 5. Choosing a REALTOR® based only on commission
Consider experience, marketing strategy, local knowledge, negotiation skills and the complete selling plan—not simply the lowest fee.

📍 Thinking about selling a home in Brantford or Brant County? The right pricing, preparation, marketing and negotiation strategy can make a significant difference.

📞 Terry Summerhays
The Terry Summerhays Team | RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.
519-802-8770

#BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordRealtor #SellingAHome #BrantfordHomes #HomeSellingTips #SellYourHome #BrantfordOntario

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Thinking About Buying a Home in Greenbrier, Brantford, Ontario? Here’s What You Should Know Before You Buy!

If you’re searching for an established north-end Brantford neighbourhood with mature streets, parks, convenient amenities and a variety of detached homes, Greenbrier deserves a closer look. 🌳🔑

👉 Read the complete Greenbrier home buyer’s guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-g…

Greenbrier offers a mix of homes built across several decades, giving buyers different styles, layouts and price points to consider.

🏠 What types of homes are in Greenbrier?

You’ll commonly find:

✅ Raised bungalows
✅ Back splits and side splits
✅ Two-storey detached homes
✅ Three-bedroom family homes
✅ A smaller selection of townhouses

Many Greenbrier homes were built between the 1960s and 1980s, so condition and upgrades can vary significantly from one property to another.

📍 Why do buyers consider Greenbrier?

The neighbourhood offers convenient access to Greenbrier Park, schools, shopping, restaurants and everyday amenities. The nearby Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre provides pools, hockey arenas, fitness facilities and additional recreation options.

Greenbrier also offers convenient access to major Brantford routes and Highway 403, making it worth considering for buyers who commute.

🔍 What should you check before buying a Greenbrier home?

Because homes were constructed during different eras, don’t compare properties based on appearance alone. Pay close attention to the:

🔹 Roof and foundation
🔹 Electrical and plumbing systems
🔹 Heating and cooling equipment
🔹 Windows and insulation
🔹 Renovations and overall condition

A professional home inspection can help you better understand the property before removing conditions.

💡 Buyer Tip: Compare a Greenbrier home with recent sales of similar home styles, not simply every sale in the neighbourhood. A raised bungalow, side split and two-storey can each compete in different segments of the market.

📞 Terry Summerhays — REALTOR®
The Terry Summerhays Team
RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.
📱 519-802-8770
🌐 ViewBrantfordHomes.com

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Planning to Sell Your Home in Brantford? Start With This Pre-Listing Checklist!

Preparing your home for sale doesn’t always mean expensive renovations. Often, the biggest impact comes from decluttering, cleaning, small repairs, better presentation, and addressing maintenance issues before buyers arrive.

🔗 Read the full checklist:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/how-to-prepare-you…

If you’re thinking about selling a home in Brantford, Ontario, here are five areas to focus on before listing:

✅ 1. Improve Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, clean the front entrance, clear gutters and touch up peeling paint where needed.

✅ 2. Declutter & Depersonalize
Clear countertops, organize closets, remove excess furniture and pack away unnecessary personal items. Buyers should be able to picture themselves living in the home.

✅ 3. Fix Small Visible Problems
Repair leaky faucets, squeaky doors, damaged caulking, burnt-out lightbulbs and noticeable wall damage. Fresh neutral paint can also help dated spaces feel brighter and cleaner.

✅ 4. Deep Clean Every Room
Focus on windows, flooring, baseboards, grout, kitchens, bathrooms and appliances. A clean home can create greater confidence with potential buyers.

✅ 5. Address Deferred Maintenance
Older roofing, aging mechanical systems, water stains or unfinished repairs may become negotiation points later. Addressing concerns before listing can reduce surprises.

🔑 Should you renovate before selling your Brantford home?

Not necessarily. The right improvements depend on your property, neighbourhood, price range and current buyer expectations. Before spending money, determine which updates could actually improve your home’s marketability.

📍 Selling a home in Brantford, Ontario?
Terry Summerhays and The Terry Summerhays Team at RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc. can help you prepare, price and market your home strategically.

📞 Terry Summerhays: 519-802-8770

#BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordRealtor #SellingAHomeInBrantford #HomeSellingTips #BrantfordHomes

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Thinking About Buying a Home in Fairview, Brantford, Ontario?

If you’re searching for a convenient, established neighbourhood in Brantford’s north end, Fairview is worth a closer look. With a mix of detached homes, row houses, townhome-style properties and bungalow condos, Fairview offers options for first-time buyers, families, downsizers and those looking for lower-maintenance living.

Read the full Fairview buyer guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-f…

📍 Why do buyers consider Fairview?

✅ Established north-end Brantford location
✅ Detached homes, row houses and condo options
✅ Convenient access to Highway 403
✅ Close to Walmart, Costco and everyday shopping
✅ Near the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
✅ Access to schools, parks and recreation
✅ Housing options for different budgets and lifestyles

🔍 What should you know before buying?

Many homes in Fairview were built between the 1960s and 1980s, so condition can vary from one property to another. Buyers should look closely at major components such as the roof, windows, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and overall maintenance history.

If you’re considering a condo or row house, review the status certificate, condo fees, reserve fund and corporation documents before making a final decision.

Pricing can also vary significantly by property type, size, updates and condition. A detached home should be compared with similar recent detached-home sales, not simply the overall Brantford average.

🏠 Want to explore homes for sale in Fairview, Brantford?

📞 Terry Summerhays — 519-802-8770
The Terry Summerhays Team
RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.

Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, downsizing or relocating to Brantford, local neighbourhood knowledge can help you compare homes, understand value and make a more informed decision. Make an informed choice.

#FairviewBrantford #BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordHomes #BuyingAHomeInBrantford #BrantfordOntario #BrantfordRealtor #NorthEndBrantford #OntarioRealEstate

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Selling and Buying a Home at the Same Time in Brantford? Here’s How to Coordinate Both With Less Stress.

For many Brantford homeowners, selling a home is only half the move. You also need to find and purchase your next property — and that means timing, financing, conditions and closing dates all need to work together.

👉 Read the full guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/selling-and-buying…

Should you sell first or buy first? There isn’t one answer that fits everyone. The right strategy depends on your home’s value, your available equity, your financing, market conditions and how flexible you can be with timing.

🔑 If you sell first, you may have more certainty about your budget. The downside is that you may need temporary housing if you do not find your next home right away.

🔑 If you buy first, you can secure the right property before listing your current home. However, you need to understand the financial risk of carrying two properties if your existing home takes longer to sell.

✅ Conditional offers may help in some situations, allowing you to make your purchase dependent on selling your current home.

✅ Bridge financing may also be an option for homeowners when the purchase closes before the sale of the current home.

✅ Coordinating closing dates is critical. Even a small timing gap can affect moving plans, storage, financing and possession.

The best approach is to plan your sale and purchase as one connected strategy from the beginning. Start by understanding your current home’s market value, your realistic buying budget and your ideal moving timeline.

If you are moving up, downsizing or relocating within Brantford, Ontario, having a clear plan can help reduce stress and avoid costly surprises.

📞 Terry Summerhays — 519-802-8770
🏡 The Terry Summerhays Team | RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.

#BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordRealtor #SellingAHomeInBrantford #BuyingAHomeInBrantford #BrantfordHomes #MoveUpBuyer #DownsizingBrantford #BrantfordOntario

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 Thinking About Buying a Home in Echo Place, Brantford, Ontario? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy!

📖 Read the complete Echo Place home buyer’s guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-e…

If you’re searching for a Brantford neighbourhood with mature trees, established streets, larger lots, convenient highway access and a wide variety of homes, Echo Place deserves a closer look.

📍 Located on the east side of Brantford, Echo Place offers a quiet residential atmosphere while keeping you close to downtown, shopping, restaurants, schools, parks, the Grand River and Highway 403.

🏠 Why do home buyers consider Echo Place?

✅ Mature, tree-lined streets and established neighbourhood character
✅ A mix of starter homes, bungalows, larger family homes and condos
✅ Homes ranging from older character properties to 1960s–70s homes and newer construction
✅ Nearby parks, trails and outdoor recreation
✅ Convenient access to shopping, schools and everyday amenities
✅ Quick access to Highway 403 for commuters
✅ Options for first-time buyers, families, downsizers and investors

🔍 What should you know before buying a home in Echo Place?

One of Echo Place’s biggest advantages is also something buyers need to understand: the homes vary significantly in age, style, renovations and condition.

A pre-1960s character home can have very different inspection and maintenance considerations than a 1970s bungalow or a newer property. That’s why buyers should look carefully at electrical systems, plumbing, heating and cooling, windows, roofing, renovations and overall maintenance.

Pricing should also be evaluated carefully. Rather than relying only on the overall Brantford average, compare a property with recent Echo Place sales of similar age, size, style and condition.

Ready to explore homes for sale in Echo Place, Brantford?

📞 Terry Summerhays — 519-802-8770
🏡 The Terry Summerhays Team
RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.
🌐 www.ViewBrantfordHomes.com/

#EchoPlace #BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordHomes #HomesForSaleBrantford #BuyingAHomeInBrantford #EchoPlaceBrantford #BrantfordRealtor

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 0

Living in Brantford with Terry Summerhays

🏡 How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Brantford, Ontario?

If you’re thinking about selling your Brantford home, one of the first questions you may ask is: “How long will the entire selling process take?”

📖 Read the full guide:
www.viewbrantfordhomes.com/blog/how-long-does-it-t…

The answer depends on your property, neighbourhood, condition, pricing strategy, buyer demand and current Brantford real estate market conditions. But most home sales move through four key stages.

⏱️ 1. Preparing Your Home — 1 to 4 Weeks
This may include a professional home evaluation, decluttering, minor repairs, staging and professional photography. Proper preparation can help your home make a stronger first impression.

🏠 2. Listing & Showings — Days to Several Weeks
Once your home is listed, professional marketing, online exposure, showings and open houses begin. Accurate pricing based on current comparable Brantford sales can have a major impact on how quickly buyers respond.

🤝 3. Offers & Negotiations — A Few Days to 1–2 Weeks
Offers may involve price, financing, inspections, conditions and closing dates. Experienced negotiation can help protect your interests while keeping the transaction moving forward.

🔑 4. Closing — Typically 30–60 Days After an Accepted Offer
Once conditions are satisfied, lawyers, lenders and other professionals complete the final steps toward closing day.

So, how quickly will your Brantford home sell? Every property is different. Pricing, presentation, professional marketing and local buyer demand all play an important role.

Thinking about selling a home in Brantford, Ontario? Get a realistic timeline and current market value for your property.

📞 Terry Summerhays — REALTOR®
The Terry Summerhays Team
RE/MAX Twin City Realty Inc.
📱 519-802-8770
🌐 www.ViewBrantfordHomes.com

#BrantfordRealEstate #BrantfordRealtor #SellingAHome #BrantfordHomes #HomeSellingTips #BrantfordOntario

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 0