October 2012 - Hammer Home News
As our world is becoming paperless, use trees to build our homes
YOUR 2012 PROPERTY TAX NOTICE - a quick overview of what you need to know.
In the last few weeks I have received a few calls about the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation’s (MPAC) 2012 Property Tax Notice. Many of my clients were surprised of their new amount. Most found their assessment value of their property significantly higher than the current market could hold if they had to put it on the market today. I thought I would share some quick points about MPAC and how to contact them if you are concerned you are paying too much in property taxes.
In case you were wondering, I will take a quick second to explain how MPAC assesses properties. The main criteria to establish your property’s assessed value is determined by analyzing neighbourhood sales, location, lot dimensions, living area, age of the house and adjustments for renovations (with quality of construction in mind).
In my own case, our assessment came back rather low. My husband at first exclaimed we must have spent too much on our home. Of course I disagreed and as a matter of fact I was very pleased our assessment was lower than the price we paid because it means we pay less in property taxes. Considering we are not planning on moving anytime soon, who cares what the city thinks our home is worth. However, if you are on the other side of this situation, and your value is assessed at more than what you may have just paid for your new home, act immediately. There is no reason why you should pay more in property taxes for a home that recently sold for less than the assessed value from MPAC. As I always say, a house is only worth as much as someone is willing to pay for it.
If you feel your home has been inaccurately assessed, you could start by seeing what information MPAC has on your property on file and compare your assessment to other properties in your area by visiting www.aboutmyproperty.ca, by phone 1-866-296-MPAC.
The good news is MPAC will review your file free of charge but remember you only have up to April 1, 2013 to request this review.
To all my friends and clients, may you continue to have a wonderful Fall season and a Happy Halloween to you and your family.
Sincerely,
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EarthShip Homes
By Monica & Nikki in Earthship/Tire Dwelling, Green and Natural Building Construction
A earthship house is made up of rammed earth and tires. The tires are stacked (staggered) like bricks. Each tire has earth pounded into them until firmly packed. Once the tires are packed, they are very difficult to move and form quite a dense wall. The walls are load bearing and provide thermal mass which is an important attribute to any energy efficient house. Thermal mass stores heat and releases the heat slowly. This keeps indoor temperature constant while outside temperatures fluctuate. Once the walls are in place, the walls are quite often plastered over and appear very similar to an adobe style house. Michael Reynolds a Southwestern US architect is credited with building the first earthship.
Read More…
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This Month's Trivia Question:
Which country has the most private housing in the entire world?
The first five individuals to respond correctly will win a $10.00 gift card to Starbucks. Email your answers to rachel@rachelhammer.com
Last Month's Trivia Question:
Which company owns the most Real Estate in the world?
The Answer was: McDonalds...Congratulations to: Sandra, Tammy, Lori, Jason & Maxime for being the first five to answer last month and win a $10.00 gift card to Starbucks.
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New Listing
2816 John Shaw Rd
Introducing to you, 2816 John Shaw Rd, a charming country home.
This country home in Marathon Village, conveniently located minutes from carp, centrally located to Kanata, Stittsville, Arnprior and Pakenham for skiing. This charming and cozy four bedroom, two bathroom home boasts beautiful hardwood throughout with two updated bathrooms and great storage space in the basement.
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Sold!
86 Briston Private
Wonderfully situated and rarely offered two bedroom terrace condo with natural gas and a/c. This beautifully maintained open concept home has been professionally painted, includes gleaming hardwood and ceramic flooring, all kitchen appliances and access to private balcony. Enjoy the loft w/ gas fireplace, two great sized bedrooms and large main bathroom. True pride of ownership, come see for yourself!
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Amazing Buy
110 Kittiwake Court
Welcome to this beautifully built Holitzner Home, Edgemount model with fourplus one bedrooms in Timbermere.
This home boasts hardwood and tiled main floor, a vaulted ceiling grand room, separate dining room, open concept freshly painted kitchen with stainless steel appliances and spacious living room including fireplace.
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