Realtor.ca

It looks like there is a new website to check out properties. Formerly, mls.ca the site has now changed to realtor.ca. It appears as if they property search function has combined with google maps to provide precise details of property locations. I have mixed feelings about this. First, I probably just don't like adjusting to something that is new. That being said, I do like the feature where properties are imuputed on a map, so that detailed locations can be seen. This is an added feature for those people that may not be familiar with all of the streets in the area.

Now, I encourage you to keep an eye on properties in your area if you are interested in purchasing a house in the next couple of years. It's good to know the market a little bit, so that you know what you can expect to pay when it comes time. It gives you an idea of what it costs, and it also gives you an opportunity to plan your down payment a little bit better. You may consider investing in RRSP's, tax savings account (new in 2009), or other investment choices while trying to build up a down payment. It's important to plan because there are certain rules and regulations that you need to follow in order to be able to take advantage of tax savings.

I'll probably talk about tax implications a bit more in a future post, but I want people to check out realtor.ca today, so that they can plan on where they would like to live and begin the planning process as soon as they can.