March 2022 Newsletter + DIY Gardening Ideas

In March 2022, finally, there was a slight change in long-term trends with listing inventory, take a look at our top 4 creative garden projects for those with balconies looking to garden this spring!

In March 2022 there were 11,000 properties reported sold, capping off the third-best March recorded, and a 30 percent decline compared to March 2021. Tight market conditions continued to boast an average selling price of 1.3 million. Despite market conditions remaining tight, new listings were slightly down, which meant less competition. Buyers will be happy to hear property prices across all segments have cooled down. This is due to two reasons, first, mortgage rates recently increasing, and second, a slight increase in the number of listings in the GTA, swaying the regular seasonal trend.

Taking a look specifically at the condo market, we've seen an increase in the number of listings which has provided some relief to prospective condo buyers. This relief is slight though, as there still are intense bidding wars and offer nights --yet the competition certainly is not as severe as in previous months in January and February when inventory was significantly lower.

Taking a closer look at the freehold market, increased mortgage rates have slowed down the detached housing segment. Yet, townhomes remain in high demand and have not slowed down, given that they are the most affordable option.

To that end, now is the time government must focus on measures that are proven to increase the housing supply. The Federal government has added many new regulations including but not limited to FHSA. Home Buyer's Plan, Home Buyer's Tax Credit, and GST/HST on Assignment Sales. To learn what this means for you, please schedule a call with me to discuss the details further!

DIY Gardens for balconies and backyards - Making small spaces GROW!

1) Convert an old ladder into a chic Garden Shelf in your small garden

Have an old ladder hung about that you were planning to toss? Give it a fresh coat of paint or leave it as is for an adorable garden shelf to stack herbs and flower pots.

2) Grow sprouts that are delicious and nutritious

What are sprouts? Sprouts are microgreens that are baby plants. A popular type of sprout is a mung bean. Sprouts are high in many vitamins such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium and are super easy to throw into a salad. Simply soak in water for 8 hours, place it in a dark cool space for 3 days, then bring it out on your balcony for a little sun to complete the loop and enjoy!

3) Create a succulent container garden

Growing a succulent container is easy and immensely satisfying. Having evolved in some of the world's harshest conditions, succulents are vigorous plants that require very little water. Make sure to choose a shallower container! And to have a "cactus or succulent style" soil. Watch as they grow, with very little maintenance.

4) Simply grow easy low maintenance veg in containers

Here is the easiest veg you can grow on your balcony. Beans, Grow them in 10-12 inches deep pots and a trellis-like structure for support since they are climbers. Tomatoes are easiest to grow in medium containers for balconies with loads of sunlight. Lettuce is good to grow in a wide planter and can be trimmed and harvested multiple times per season!