Vol. 20, Issue 3, May 2012

JULIE’ S SCOOP

Hope everyone had a Happy Mother's Day – be it a Mom of children, grown kids or furbabies!

QUOTE of the day:
“The sweetest sounds to mortals given are heard in Mother, Home, and Heaven.”
William Goldsmith Brown

Wishing You All Happy Mother Day by Dawn Huczek

As you can probably tell, it has been a brisk spring market – it is not all peaches & cream when you're in the trenches, but suffice to say we feel fortunate that it is so much better than most cities. Now more than every buyers and sellers need to be turning to an experienced team such as our JKT, as there is a lot to handle and a lot of issues that arise that need solving, especially when it is moving and changing so fast. Please let your friends and colleagues know that we would love to help them.

Continue reading Toronto Real Estate May 2012 Newsletter...

Money by Lauren Siegert

Last month, the CBC fell victim to a highly publicized funding cut from the federal government. A quick numbers recap: $115 million will be officially cut over the next three years, with CBC president Hubert Lacroix stating the loss actually amounts to $225 million when taking severance packages and ongoing budget plans into account. In terms of jobs, 650 layoffs are expected from now till 2015.

• The News Network’s Connect with Mark Kelley is cancelled.
• The radio news program Dispatches is also terminated, as are drama programs on Radio One.
• Recording studios in St. John’s, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary, and Edmonton are shutting down.
• Radio Canada International goes from short-wave radio and satellite broadcasts to internet-only, while also dropping news services and broadcasts in Russian and Brazilian.
• Ads will begin to run on the public broadcaster’s Radio Two and Espace Musique stations.

…but then I stop to think about whether I knew these programs and services existed in the first place. I’ve probably heard of Connect with Mark Kelley and Dispatches, but I can’t say I’ve tuned into either. As for Radio Canada International, I don’t think I’ve come across it before (though it is aimed at audiences outside of Canada). The point is, if I didn’t even know about these shows, can I feel upset that they are cancelled?

National Media Industry

TV by Gideon Tsang

In terms of Canadian primetime television, the only major network where we can watch homegrown programs is the CBC; otherwise, primetime is dominated by American shows. And when it comes to viewership, CBC shows certainly lag behind those of private network competitors CTV and Global, both of who mainly broadcast shows imported from the States. According to BBM Canada, a not-for-profit industry organization that collects TV and radio audience data, the 30 most popular TV programs week after week are almost entirely made up of American shows on CTV and Global, with Hockey Night in Canada and the Canadian version of Dragon’s Den being the only CBC shows to place consistently in the rankings.

Looking at these numbers, I can’t help but wonder if the average Torontonian cares that there will be more reruns and less original and varied programming on the CBC, that there will be less documentaries, and that new bureaus in Africa and South America will be shut down.

Of course, ratings aren’t the only factor determining the CBC’s success. In fact, as a public broadcaster that taxpayers pay for, its mission isn’t, or shouldn’t be to chase after high numbers and profits. As outlined in its 1991 Broadcasting Act , the corporation’s mandate is to ‘reflect Canada and its regions to national and regional audiences’ and to ‘contribute to cultural expression’.

The Conflict of the Shows

Where the CBC has run into problems is that in trying to compete with private networks like CTV and Global. In doing so, the conflict between public service and attracting ‘eyeballs’, between informative, thought-provoking content and popularity, becomes clear. Is it part of the mandate to spend taxpayers’ money on buying American game shows like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy? President Lacroix claims that these highly-rated shows lead more viewers to watch the Canadian programming that follows. What about airing William and Kate: A Love Story on the documentary program Passionate Eye? Does that reflect our national and regional culture?

CBC Television by
Wikimedia Commons

The corporation should realign itself as a public service broadcaster and focus on telling national and regional stories. The ratings for these stories will probably not make it into the Weekly Top 30, but numbers only tell part of the story. Just because many people are watching doesn’t mean they are invested or enlightened. I do believe that by catering to Canadians who care about quality homegrown content, Canadians who, like myself, listen to English and French radio and watch shows that feature Canadian characters and settings, the CBC can be sustainable and well-respected as a public service broadcaster that informs us of relevant current affairs and produces well-made entertainment that enriches our culture. That would be better than spreading itself too thin trying to be commercial and public-serving at the same time, while succeeding at neither.

Looking at the nationwide picture, it would be a shame if these cuts affect CBC service in rural Canada. In city centres like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, these cuts have less of an impact since there are so many other channels and stations to tune into via cable or satellite. In smaller communities, however, the CBC is often one of a few, if not the only, source of live TV and radio for Canadians. It is in this regional, and national, function that the CBC should narrow its focus on. My hope is that the funding cuts will force the CBC to redefine its mission and serve Canadians who care.

http://www.toronto.ca/doorsopen2012/

As the city commemorates the War of 1812 Bicentennial, Doors Open Toronto 2012 looks back over the past 200 years to reveal the fascinating personalities who shaped Toronto's architecture and history. More than 135 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings will open their doors for the weekend and highlight the people who built our city. All for free!

Enhance your event experience!
Take Doors Open Toronto with you on your smart phone. Download one of the Doors Open Toronto apps which will be available here at the end of April.

http://www.toronto.ca/doorsopen2012/

Nothing in life is free, but this iS!!!!!

Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported a strong result of 10,350 transactions recorded through the Toronto MLS System for the month of April. Toronto average home sale prices continued to increase by more than 8.5 per cent year-over-year, even though the increase was marginally lower than the increases in February and March. The average price for April 2012 transactions was $517,556, including houses and condos in the Greater Toronto Area.

Price increases and competition were strongest for single-detached homes. Across the GTA, their prices were up by around 9 per cent. Resale prices at the condo market were increased by 4 per cent. The condo market is generally better supplied with inventory, a result of new construction continuing.

“Interest in single-detached homes has been very high, both in the City of Toronto and surrounding regions. Growth in single-detached listings has not kept up with demand, which means competition between buyers in this market segment increased. With this in mind, it was no surprise that the strongest annual price increase was also experienced in the single-detached segment,” explained Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver.

Buyers were not deterred by continuing low rates. The board emphasized that mortgage rates, still very close to the low levels earlier this year, are driving the market.

“Monthly mortgage payments remain affordable for home buyers in the Greater Toronto Area. While interest rates are generally expected to increase over the next two years, the extent and timing of rate hikes has been thrown into question by slower than expected economic growth in the first quarter of this year. On net, borrowing costs are expected to remain a positive factor influencing home sales through 2012,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

THE ACTION:

On a quiet street in a family-friendly neighbourhood, this semi-detached house presented an ideal setting and space for young families working with a budget under half a million. Yet only two buyers made an offer as others likely wanted to steer clear of a bidding war.

Danforth village

WHAT THEY GOT:

Over the past decade, this 80-year-old brick structure was given some new components, from stylish tile flooring in the kitchen and two full bathrooms to updated roofing, windows, shed and fencing around the 17-by-80-foot lot.

There is 1,220 square feet of living space divided with three bedrooms upstairs, including one with a wood burning fireplace, a fireside living room and an adjacent dining area with hardwood floors, plus a carpeted recreation room in the 600-square-foot basement.

THE AGENT’S TAKE:

“It was a very cute, little starter home,” says agent Julie Kinnear. “It wasn’t fancy or newly renovated, but it had good size bedrooms and it was quite a wide house, so it had a good size living room, dining room and kitchen.”

This property – like many others on the street – lacked parking, but it was not an issue for most buyers.

“It had a really nice bonus of being within walking distance to the subway and Monarch Park,” adds Ms. Kinnear. “That east-end pocket is still affordable and it’s really pretty.”

Published in the Globe and Mail, Thursday, April 12, 2012.

THE ACTION:

The hot real estate market has prompted many homeowners in the Junction to list their properties, including this attached, two-bedroom townhouse, which received seven competing offers.

Justicion townhouse

WHAT THEY GOT:

As the Junction transformed into a desirable destination, so has this renovated Victorian after the seller put in a decade worth of sweat equity into the late 19th century structure.

Outside this 1,170-square-foot space, a new roof and porch were added, while the interior had its board and baton walls exposed along the staircase, wiring and lighting updated, concrete, parquet and wood floors installed and the kitchen and sole bathroom remodeled.

To entertain guests, there is a living room, a dining area and a family room addition with built-in banquettes and sliding doors to a tiered deck with planters and arbours, in addition to a recreation room in the 400-square-foot basement.

Two-car parking is provided at the back of the 16-by-124-foot lot.

THE AGENT’S TAKE:

“It’s in an über-trendy location,” agent Julie Kinnear said. “You’re half a block to Dundas and all the groovy, independent shops there.”

Buyers also appreciated the change that took place inside the house, which likely built for blue-collar workers.

“For example, it didn’t have a huge basement, but they certainly made the most of the space and a south-facing yard meant a lot of light,” Ms Kinnear explains.

“There was an addition at the back, which added a lot of space, and [the seller] renovated it in a very young, urban style that was very appealing.”

Published in the Globe and Mail, Thursday, April 12, 2012.

Facebook Security Tips

Facebook by Jacob Btter

We all know and love Facebook and Toronto is known for being one of the cities where citizens were quick to adopt this network. For some time, we were even dubbed “the FB Capital of Canada”. And no wonder: throwing parties, staying in touch with relatives and old friends, or sharing pictures, videos, and ideas has never been easier and more convenient.

However, with Facebook becoming probably the most successful and extensive social community page in web history and with the incredible amount of personal information people are willing to share and provide, new hazards are arising. Users need to be wary of numerous security risks connected to their Facebook life and take care about the safety and privacy of their profiles as well as the safety of their computers. Today’s post will provide you with a handful of simple tips that can help to prevent unpleasant surprises from happening on Facebook.

Read the Facebook Guide to Privacy

Before starting to complain about how insecure Facebook is, take your time to check out “A guide to privacy on Facebook.” After storms of criticism, Facebook takes care to communicate its steps and policies aimed at ensuring security of its users. You can find a link to the guide at the bottom of every page on Facebook — just click on the “Privacy.” For example, a surprisingly low number of people know and use a function that allows you to preview your profile after setting the desired privacy levels to your profile. By doing so, you can see how much information is revealed to complete strangers on Facebook and adjust the settings according to your wishes.

Be Wary of Information That You Share

Facebook on the Computer
by English106

Whatever your privacy settings might be and however small and reliable your circle of Facebook friends is, always keep in mind that every piece of information posted online could be shared with the whole world. Just imagine that one of your friends doesn’t always log out and somebody uses her or his personal computer. In this manner, your entire profile could be visible to virtually anyone. Furthermore, the hypothetical option of getting your computer hacked can never be completely ruled out. That’s why in all cases you should consider the extent of information that you share.

For example, your date of birth is often used as a security question on the Internet webpages and thus can be misused. Be careful with giving out your location data to avoid possible thefts and stalking in the physical world, as well as to stop social-engineering attacks when someone claims to know you from a party or a conference to obtain information about you. The last piece of advice associated with this issue is simple, but many people have troubles recognizing it: censor yourself and don’t post any information or pictures that could embarrass or harm you in any way, so that you actually wouldn’t need to worry about security that much.

Organize Friends in Lists

What do you do with a friend request from someone you’re not very keen on sharing your personal data and pictures with? In reality, you don’t need to worry about accepting your boss, casual party acquaintance, or your grandma — just start using Friend Lists properly.

Friend Lists are the base of efficient Facebook privacy settings. It’s very simple: select Friends from the top menu and click on the Create link to organize your friends in different lists such as Family, School, or Work. Your friends don’t have access to the lists, so you don’t need to worry about offending anyone by listing her or him in a “losers” group or something similar. You can also choose how close each of the people you’re adding is to you and limit the amount of information you share with them. In this way, for example, “limited friends” might only see a cut-down version of your profile in any way you choose.

Use Applications and Games Sensibly

Game by MeLY3o

In the past couple of years, rogue Facebook applications have become a huge problem of the community, as too many of them spammed users and hijacked accounts. Since then, Facebook programmers have introduced lots of new features that are supposed to stop or at least diminish the impact of these apps, for example Apps Passwords aimed at increasing users’ security. Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that applications may use several permissions and read the content of your profile. That’s why you should limit your apps to those that can be trusted and that you often use.

Quit Facebook Properly

If you decide that you want to quit Facebook, make sure you do it properly and delete your profile instead of just deactivating it. You can deactivate your profile easily any time on the Settings Page. However, deactivation doesn’t erase your data from the page, and pictures, friends, and messages remain stored online. To permanently delete your profile on Facebook, you have to submit a deletion account on “this page”. Of course, this may not be the end, so always remember that there is always an unspecified delay between your request and the time when the actual deletion takes place.

Furthermore, as soon as you log in to your profile, the deletion request gets automatically cancelled and your profile carries on in the usual way. Because of this, it’s probably impossible to find out whether your request was completed or not and you can never be really sure how much of your personal data still hangs around the Facebook servers.

Wi-Fi Safety Tips

Besides taking care of your safety on Internet pages, it’s also important to protect yourself during the age of Wi-Fi. It’s especially worth special caution when it’s a Wi-Fi network that you’re not familiar with on a public place like a café or a library. Even though the convenience of Wi-Fi is indisputable and everybody loves getting online without the limitation of cables, it carries along quite a few risks. Read on to learn about a couple of simple precautions that can make you feel safer when using Wi-Fi.

Use Firewall

On Your Mobile by Johan
Larsson

Never forget to use a firewall when connecting to a Wi-Fi network that can be accessed publicly. Probably there will be no problem with that, as these days, most operating systems function with some kind of firewall automatically installed and activated for the users. Just in case, recheck whether it is running properly and whether you have the newest version installed before logging in to a public networks. Most firewalls will even offer you an option to raise the level of security they usually provide once logging in on a public hotspot.

Turn Off File Sharing on Your Computer

If you’re used to sharing files with your colleagues or family within your private networks, make sure to check that you’ve turned off all the programs allowing sharing before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. While most of the time, this should be done automatically by your operating system, you can never be sure whether your default settings aren’t preset differently. If you get asked by your computer what kind of network you’re connecting to, with a choice of “home”, ”office,” or ”public” network, you are usually safe. Furthermore, make sure that your computer or cell phone doesn’t connect to any available Wi-Fi network automatically. Always use manual login to protect yourself from compromised networks.

Beware of Spoofed Networks

Spoofed networks are one of the greatest dangers for casual computer users like most of us and it’s very difficult to avoid the chance of getting caught in a trap. Spoofed networks are usually created by using a name of the network that looks credible but just parasites on the name of the place to lure enough users and steal their personal information. For example, when sitting in a library in Toronto, you may see different networks with similar names such as “Library Toronto,” “Toronto Library Wi-Fi,” or “Toronto Library Reading Room.” While one or more of them could be real, there might also be a spoofed one. To prevent any troubles connected to spoofed networks, always try to check the name of the official network of the place before getting connected.

Enter No Sensitive Information

No Sensitive Information
on Facebook by English106

Even though the network might seem trustworthy and you are sure that your computer should be protected, never disclose any personal or financial information while you are connected on a public Wi-Fi hotspot. As we wrote before, you never know who is watching while you’re online, and public networks are far from being the safest place to use the Internet. It’s especially important that you don’t enter any information about your credit cards or banking in general, as you might be unpleasantly surprised by sudden drops on your bank account.

Try to use public networks for finding information only, as that is the safest way to go. If you need to check your email, always choose a “secure connection” option and don’t forget to sign out when you’re finished with your work. Also remember to disconnect from the network once you stop using it and even generally turn off the wireless on your computer unless you’re on the Internet.

Encrypting Rules!

The last tip from us will be a little advanced, but it’s very likely that if you’re not able to do it yourself, there will be someone around to help. Encrypting your personal data might be a great asset in the protection of your computer, as spying on your Wi-Fi connection gets significantly more difficult.