Grand Bend Ontario Real Estate and Mortgage Info with Larry Broadley

Changes, Changes, Changes in Grand Bend

2008-06-26T11:20:00.004-04:00

Sanders bites the dust as crews begin tearing down this famous Grand Bend Landmark on the Beach.
Monetta Menards before that Sanders comes down to make way for 6 new condos to be built this Fall.

Other changes in Town have the former Finnegans being replaced by Archies Sugar Shack. The former Grapevine/Coconut Bay is now Grandpa Jimmy's Scottish Bakery.

The Greek is now Paddington's Pub and we're anxiously awaiting the opening of The Pirates Eatery on River Road down by the Harbour where Capt Nemos was. Purdy's Landing beside that has three new artist studios who have just opened including a revamped River Road Gallery.

READY TO REINVENT YOUR SPACE?

2008-05-21T08:29:00.002-04:00

The lure of a stunning gourmet kitchen or sparkling
spa-style bathroom may have you chomping at the
bit to begin a home renovation but if you heed the
advice of experienced renovators, pre-planning and
advanced preparation are the secrets to renovation
success. Here’s a helpful checklist to get your renovation
started on the right track.
Prepare a realistic budget
Determine how much you are prepared to spend
on your renovation. Obtain a few quotes from
professional renovators to see if your budget is
realistic. As you refine your plans, your budget can
be fine-tuned. Remember to boost your budget by
at least 10 % for unexpected costs.
Decide what you want to do
For most people, this is the fun part – flipping
through magazines and watching home decorating
shows to get inspired. But it is also one of the most
critical phases in any home renovation. Create a
folder with photos and examples of what you hope
to achieve and include a list of issues you want
your renovation to resolve.
Arrange for financing
Get financing in place early to plan your renovation
with confidence. Leveraging the equity in your
home is often the best option. As a secured loan,
you can usually obtain an attractive interest rate
and with flexible repayments, this option can be
easy on your cash flow. Other alternatives include
refinancing your existing mortgage or arranging
for a second mortgage on your home. To obtain
the best possible terms, be sure to work with an
independent mortgage professional who can shop
the market for you.
Select the right team
You’ll want to entrust your project to people known
for their quality of work. Depending on what your
renovation involves, you may need a designer
to come up with an overall design and plan.
Your contractor, who does the construction or
subcontracts it to other trades people, will work with
you or your designer to implement your plan.
Ask for recommendations from friends and family,
interview prospective candidates and always
check references.
Stick with your plan
With a sound plan, reasonable budget, financing
in place and a team that you trust, your renovation
can get off on the right track. To keep it there,
minimize changes and make yourself available for
decisions so that your renovations can proceed on
schedule. Remember to keep your eye on the prize
– it won’t be long before the dust settles and you
can enjoy your amazing new space.
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation (CMHC), Canadians spend substantial
sums on renovations – they project more than
$50 billion will be spent on home improvement
projects in 2008. To make sure you get the most for
your renovation dollars, follow the lead of experienced
renovators and plan ahead for success.

Larry Broadley Mortgage Broker

519 238 5899 1 877 338 5899
larry.broadley@migroup.ca

Is a Recreation Property Right For You

2008-04-30T13:57:00.002-04:00

Whether it’s called a cottage, a chalet or a
country house, the lure of a recreation property far
from the hustle of the city is too much for many of
us to resist.
As Baby Boomers get ready to retire, they’re
driving up interest in these properties – especially
with the attractive financing options available for
second homes. If a recreation property is on your
radar, here are some important questions to ask
yourself before you make the leap:
How would a recreation property impact
my lifestyle?
Consider how a recreation property would fit into
the lifestyle you envision for you and your family –
both the benefits and the drawbacks. In addition to
the fun and leisure aspects of a recreation property,
you’ll also need to factor in the time and cost
involved in year-round property upkeep.
Can I afford the purchase price and/or
a mortgage?
You want to ensure you can afford not only the
purchase price or mortgage, but also the ongoing
– and often unexpected – expenses that are an
inevitable part of home ownership. Work with a
mortgage broker ( Larry Broadley )to fully assess your recreation
property ownership options. Many brokers and
lenders offer specialized services and mortgage
products specifically for second homes.
How far am I prepared to travel?
Peace and quiet often come with a price: distance.
Be realistic about the time you are willing to commit
to travel to and from your recreation property. You
may even want to take ‘test drives’ on busy weekends
to determine travel times during peak season.
Who should I call?
As you would with a primary property, call a
professional real estate agent ( also Larry Broadley )who knows the
region where you would like to buy, and work
with your mortgage broker to secure financing to
determine what you can afford before you begin.
For more information contact :

Larry Broadley Mortgage Broker Mortgage Intelligence and Real Estate Broker RE/MAX Bluewater Realty

1 877 338 5899

larry.broadley@migroup.ca

larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Central Office: 3300 Bloor Street West, Centre Tower, 9th floor, Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3 ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. © Copyright 2008, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved.

RE/MAX Each office is independently owned and operated

2008-04-14T09:46:00.002-04:00

Relax. Your cottage by the lake
isn’t just a dream

As you breathe in that deep breath of fresh air you know you’ve found that idyllic spot where you’ve always dreamed of spending your golden years. It’s the perfect cedar-shingled cottage right on the lake, where you can relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. Like a growing number of Canadians in their peak income years, a vacation property has always been part of your retirement plan and now that you’ve found it, only one step remains; financing it.
In the past, financing for a recreational property
has been more challenging than for a principal
residence, as traditional lending institutions have
found second homes to be a less than desirable
investment. With today’s booming recreational
property market, however, Canadians longing for a
summer, winter or all-season retreat are finding they
have other options.
A growing number of Canadians are factoring a
vacation property into their retirement planning.
While recreational property mortgages are still
relatively new to the market, they can provide
Canadians with an easy and affordable way to
make that cottage, chalet or retreat a reality.
A recreational property mortgage can help qualified
homebuyers make that beach sunset or ski chalet
possible with as little as 5 per cent down. Whether
a homebuyer is purchasing a waterfront home,
resort-style condominium or timeshare property, this
type of product can provide a mortgage on an
owner-occupied second property located in a known
vacation area. To make qualification even easier,
this product can also function as a blanket mortgage
utilizing a principal residence as additional collateral.
Vacation properties are more than just a financial
investment for most Canadians. They quite often
become the spot where families come together.
By visiting a Mortgage Intelligence agent,
Canadians can get the financing they need to realize
their vacation.
Central Office: 3300 Bloor Street West, Centre Tower, 9th floor, Suite 2900, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3 ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. © Copyright 2007, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved.
Larry Broadley
Mortgage Consultant
519 238 5899 of TF 1 877 338 5899

larry.broadley@migroup.ca
larrybroadley.com

2008-04-02T12:03:00.000-04:00

Have you heard about 40 year mortgages and their effect on fueling the Housing and Cottage Market? The following article by Ellen Roseman in the April 2nd Toronto Star tells more

There's a revolution going on in Canada's housing market, one that is propping up prices and extending the boom.
More buyers are choosing mortgages with longer payback periods.
By stretching payments over 30 to 40 years (instead of the usual 25), they can enter the market sooner or buy a better property.
Mortgages with longer amortizations have caught on like a house on fire (pardon the pun).
"About 60 per cent of first-time buyers are opting for a 40-year mortgage," says Craig Alexander, deputy chief economist at TD Bank.
His explanation: Houses are now less affordable because prices have grown faster than household incomes.
"Prices have gone up 10 per cent a year between 2002 and 2007, while historically they have gone up only 4 to 5 per cent a year.
"If these longer amortization mortgages hadn't been around, the housing market would have cooled down a lot sooner."
There's a "huge adoption" of 40-year mortgages in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, where people stretch for affordability, says Catherine Adams, vice-president of home equity financing at Royal Bank of Canada. "I think it's given the housing market a boost and allowed prices to go up further than they would have otherwise."
The Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals did a survey last fall that showed the product's appeal.
Mortgages with longer amortizations grew to 37 per cent of new home loans – and 9 per cent of outstanding mortgages.
"That's phenomenal, considering they have been around for only the last two to three years," says association president Jim Murphy.
Competition in mortgage insurance has accelerated new product development by lenders.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., a federal government agency, used to have the market to itself.
Now it has three private-sector rivals from the United States (Genworth Financial, PMI Group Inc., AIG United Guaranty).
Another big U.S. firm (Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corp.) has applied for a licence, Murphy says.
Is there too much innovation in lending? And is Canada headed down the same road as the United States?
That's the contention of Garth Turner, a Liberal MP and former business editor, who argues that lenders in Canada are flirting with a market collapse.
In his book, Greater Fool: The Troubled Future of Real Estate (Key Porter, $21.95) and his blog, http://www.greaterfool.ca/, he says the net effect of 40-year mortgages is no different from U.S. subprime mortgages.
"Both make buying easier and cheaper. Both lower the bar for loan qualifications. Both augment mortgage debt. Both sustain an overvalued market. Both lead to asset inflation.
"Will they both end badly?"
While 40-year mortgages may have extended Canada's real estate boom, most economists don't foresee an imminent U.S.-style bust.
"There's no evidence that house prices are set to decline in Canada," says Ted Tsiakopoulos, a CMHC market analyst in Toronto.
"Incomes are growing and we feel that's the most important factor that will support price growth."
The forces behind Canada's last housing crash in 1989 – high inflation, high interest rates and speculative buying – don't exist now.
In particular, says Alexander of TD Bank, you don't see house prices decline without significantly higher interest rates.
He predicts Canada's economy will slow until late 2009 and the Bank of Canada will cut rates by 1 to 1.5 percentage points.
"Falling interest rates are not consistent with the housing market running into major problems."
So, prepay your mortgage now if you can. Then, you'll have some equity to fall back on when interest rates go up again in about two years.
Ellen Roseman's column runs Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday in the Toronto Star. You can reach her at eroseman@thestar.ca by email.

For information on Mortgages and or Buying a property call Larry at 877 338 5899 or by e-mail larry.broadley@migroup.ca

2008-03-25T12:57:00.000-04:00

Spring is Sprung (hopefully) and thoughts turn to a new home or cottage.

The big question ? How do I pre-qualify for a mortgage ?

Information required to be pre-qualified for a mortgage:

Ask your employer to prepare a letter on company letterhead outlining your name, base salary or hourly rate, normal hours worked per week, position and length of service. A recent pay stub and a copy of your T4 from last year may also be required.
If commission sales, three years personal tax returns together with the Notice of Assessments from Canada Customs & Revenue Agency.
If self-employed, three years personal tax returns together with the Notice of Assessments from Canada Customs & Revenue Agency, three years business financial statements, and three years business tax returns (if applicable).
Note: New products have been launched to the marketplace where, with good credit, you can qualify for a mortgage based on your stated income*. This type of mortgage was designed for the self-employed, including contractors, freelancers, consultants, commission sales professionals, or small business owners. Talk to us about mortgage approvals specifically for the self-employed.
Social Insurance Numbers. (Optional).
At least 3 years history of residence and employment.
Know your banking information (name of financial institutions, address, and type of accounts, account numbers).
Know your assets (what you own) and their value. i.e. cash amounts, stocks, bonds, RRSPs, car.
Know your liabilities (what you owe). i.e. car loan, credit card balances, child or spousal support payments.
Please let us know about any past credit problems you may have had.
Write down a list of questions you would like to have answered.
A pre-qualification is usually good from 90-120 days depending on the lender and product. Once pre-qualified your fixed rate would also be locked in for a specified time frame. If interest rates go up the rate on your pre-qualification would apply as long as your mortgage closed within the specified time frame. If rates go down you would also benefit from the lower rates again within the specified time frame on your pre-approval.*
To get pre-qualified visit www.larrybroadley.com/MIpage.htm

F or a Home Buyers Guide go to www.larrybroadley.com/hbg.htm

Before you make what is likely to be the biggest financial decision of your life, call us at 877-338 5899 or email larry.broadley@migroup.ca

To maximize the benefits to you, you will want to consider enlisting the services of a Mortgage Intelligence consultant. We negotiate with major financial institutions, chartered banks, trust and insurance companies, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Genworth and others to bring our clients the most competitive mortgage rates and terms. Mortgage Intelligence will usually earn a commission or fee from the lender* for all the work, advertising and promotion done on their behalf. Our professional services are provided, in most cases, at no cost to you. We are constantly updated on rate changes and new products being introduced in the market. As our client, you can choose from the widest range of options, obtain the most competitive rate and best product suited to your specific needs. An extensive network of financial institutions has enabled many of our clients to obtain savings of up to 1.40% below posted lender rates.
For more information or a free consultation - Please contact Larry Broadley at 877 338 5899 or by e-mail larry.broadley@migroup.ca

* Subject to certain guidelines

For Real Estate Buying and Selling along Ontario's West Coast ............Ipperwash to Goderich try http://www.grandbend4sale.com/

2008-03-18T14:23:00.000-04:00

With today's lower rates and market uncertainty this is one of the most often asked questions

Fixed or variable-rate mortgage?

“Wow!” you say to your spouse as you hit the brakes on the car. “Did you see the mortgage rate those guys are advertising?” Your worries are over, you’re thinking. Just lock in a rate like that for the next ten years, and you’ve got it made.

Not so fast. That rate may not be the one for you. Typically, the lowest available rate – and the one that makes the rate sign look great from the street – will be for a variable or adjustable-rate mortgage. That rate has the potential to be like a roller coaster. The posted variable or adjustable rate is the rate you’re getting today. Unless you have an economic Ouija board, you won’t be able to predict what kind of ups and downs are ahead of you.

Let’s take a closer look. A lender will offer different rates for different types of mortgages. The rates are determined based on financial risk – to the institution and to you. When a customer is willing to take on the risk, he/she is rewarded with a lower rate. If the lender is taking on the risk (that is, the customer is promised a particular rate… regardless of what happens in the future), the rate is higher. The longer the term, the higher the risk for the financial institution.

So how do you decide? Fixed-rate mortgages, because they require a low risk tolerance, are usually better suited to first-time buyers or those who haven’t owned a home for a very long period. Ask yourself these questions: Do you like or need to know exactly what your payment is going to be over a longer period of time? Do you want to avoid the need to consistently watch rates? Do you have less than 25% down? If you answered “yes” to all, or most of these questions, a more conservative fixed-rate mortgage could be the better choice for you.

A variable or adjustable-rate mortgage is best suited to people who have a flexible budget and can tolerate higher risk. Ask yourself these questions: Do you watch market conditions? Can you handle any sudden rate increases that could increase your payment? Do you have 25% or more equity in your home? If you answered “yes” to all, or most of these questions, a variable or adjustable-rate mortgage might best suit your needs.

Some lenders offer a special promotional rate for the first few months of a variable-rate mortgage, which you should discuss with your mortgage broker. Also discuss what your rate will be based on – prime minus 0.5% or 0.6% or on Bankers’ Acceptances (BAs) plus 1%. The latter being a new kind of adjustable-rate mortgage that has recently been introduced to the marketplace. Most variable or adjustable mortgages allow you to exercise an option to “lock in” a fixed rate at any time for the remaining portion of your mortgage term or for a longer term.

If the uncertainty of a floating rate is going to give you sleepless nights, you’re in good company. Many Canadians prefer the certainty of a fixed-rate mortgage. They know exactly how much they will pay over the term of their mortgage, and they can plan accordingly… with no financial surprises. But if rates do drop… and drop… and drop… you are committed to the “promise” that you have made. Your best option - have a professional help you decide which option best meets your needs.

For Mortgage info or Real Estate Info click on

www.larrybroadley.com

2008-03-02T07:56:00.000-05:00

Times are changing, now in addition to all your buying and selling needs along Ontario's west Coast ( Lake Huron ) I have now added Mortgage Brokerage to my resume and teamed with Mortgage Intelligence to provide Mortgage and Loan services to clients, making what I offer FULL service in buying a home as well as ongoing re-financing opportunities. I can be reached either at 519 238 - 5700 (RE/MAX) or 519 238 - 5899 ( Mortgage Intelligence ) or Toll Free at 877 338 - 5899.

If your thinking about Summer Rentals in Grand Bend, Port Franks Ipperwash or Bayfield you better hurry, things are booking fast . For Rental info go to www.grandbend4sale.com/RentalPage.htm . At my rental, only the 1st 2 weeks of July are available, however wekend packages ( or weekly ) are available for April, May and June. Go to www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm .

2008-01-22T09:53:00.000-05:00

Grand Bend Winter Carnival 2008
‘Benguin Goes Wild West’

Well Week 1 is over and a GREAT success here's next weekends events and activities

Friday February 8
Riverbend- Kountry Karaoke Contest with Jude 9pm-close
Bikini Bobs-Western wine tasting- 4 -10 p.m. Country Band- 9- 1 am
Gables-The 88s 10-2 am
Gables- Bring Your Own Meat- BBQ-register early-519-238-2371
Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pm
Oakwood-Entertainment: Murray Andrews-The Clubhouse
Saturday February 9
Rotary Club Parade- 1 pm downtown
Bikini Bobs-Texas holdem’
Gables-Search for Talent Contest with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie
Grand Bend Legion- Steak BBQ - Tickets available at Legion. 519-238-2120
Pinedale Motel-Craft Sale 9am to 4 pm All vendors are welcome
United Church Lunch-after the parade-Downtown
Oakwood-8pm Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Show Cost: $20 per person includes tax Call 519-238-2324
Dinner & Show only $50 including tax & gratuity. The Huron Room
Oakwood-9:00pm Entertainment: Murray Andrews The Clubhouse
Oakwood-10 pm Miss Winter Carnival Pageant Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd The Huron Room. Call Diana at 519-238-2324 for details
Sunday February 10
Waiters Race Colonial parking lot-2-5 pm
Grand Bend Firemen's Breakfast-8 am- 11am (Behind Bank of Montreal)
Grand Bend Legion--Veteran's Memorial Mixed Dart Tournament-Register 11 am
Oakwood- 12-2pm Children’s Talent Show FREE - Register at Guest Services before February 3
Sing, dance, play – bring your original ideas to win prizes! Prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd at The Clubhouse
~Bikini Bobs -- 238--2235 ~Gables -- 238--2371 ~Riverbend 238--6919 ~Oakwood--238--2324
~Chamber of Commerce 519--238--2001

Welcome to 2008

2008-01-03T10:38:00.000-05:00

WINTER IN GRAND BEND

Winter Carnival
Feb 1 - Feb 10

Grand Bend Winter Carnival 2008
‘Benguin Goes Wild West’ ...
List of Events and Activities
Friday February 1 Oakwood- 9pm Traci Kennedy – Nashville Recording ArtistGables-10 pm 2 am- RumblefishSobeys drive-in for the kids-FREE-Grand Bend school Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pmBikini Bobs-Western wine tasting 4- 10 pm
Saturday February 2 Gables-Co-ed snowpitch tournament- Feb 2-3/Feb 9-10- Lions Park behind Legion Contact Jane or John Musser-238-6690First ever Winter Carnival fireworks at skateboard park beside Legion. 6 pm- 8 pm Hot chocolate and hot dogsRiverbend- 12th Annual Olympics 1 pm -8 pm Karaoke with Jude 9 pm- close Call to register 519-238-6919Bikini Bobs-Hot Country band 10 p.m - 2 am.Oakwood- Snowgolf- 10 am 1 pm Cost: $15 per person includes golf (club &ball), chili with bun Call 519-238-2324For the kids- Mad Science at the Grand Bend community gym plus crafts, sports and a movie. FREE. Call 519-238-1155Oakwood- 9 pm Traci Kennedy – Nashville Recording Artist The ClubhouseGables- Karaoke with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie 2 pm - 6 pm PrizesGrand Bend Legion and Winter Carnival present- Brad Karel and the Thrillbillies- and Stephanie McClennan- dance to new country at the Grand Bend Legion-Tickets call 238-2001. Sponsored in whole by Ontario Lottery and Gaming.Sunday February 3Oakwood 12-2pm Tobogganing, S'mores & Hot Chocolate FREE – children to be supervised by parents or guardians Hill at Hole #8- The ClubhouseOakwood- 4 pm Superbowl Party Door prizes and special drink prices!Gables- Wild West ride-Challenges on the Mechanical Bull- Chance to try it out. Cheers the cowboys on 1- 5 p.m.Sponsored by 104.9 the Beach radioBikini Bobs-Superbowl Party- Crazy cow contest 6 pm Youth Darts-Grand Bend Legion-Call 519-243-2452 for detailsFriday February 8Bikini Bobs-Western wine tasting- 4 -10 p.m. Country Band- 9- 1 amGables-The 88s 10-2 amGables- Bring Your Own Meat- BBQ-register early-519-238-2371 Grand Bend Legion Meat Draw 5-7 pm Oakwood-Entertainment: Murray Andrews-The ClubhouseSaturday February 9Riverbend- Kountry Karaoke Contest with Jude 9pm-closeRotary Club Parade- 1 pm downtownBikini Bobs-Texas holdem’Gables-Search for Talent Contest with Fat Kat Karaoke Bobbie Grand Bend Legion- Steak BBQ - Tickets available at Legion. 519-238-2120Pinedale Motel-Craft Sale 9am to 4 pm All vendors are welcomeUnited Church Lunch-after the parade-Downtown Oakwood-8pm Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Show Cost: $20 per person includes tax Call 519-238-2324Dinner & Show only $50 including tax & gratuity. The Huron Room Oakwood-9:00pm Entertainment: Murray Andrews The Clubhouse Oakwood-10 pm Miss Winter Carnival Pageant Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd The Huron Room. Call Diana at 519-238-2324 for detailsSunday February 10Waiters Race Colonial parking lot-2-5 pmGrand Bend Firemen's Breakfast-8 am- 11am (Behind Bank of Montreal) Grand Bend Legion--Veteran's Memorial Mixed Dart Tournament- Register 11 am Oakwood- 12-2pm Children’s Talent Show FREE - Register at Guest Services before February 3Sing, dance, play – bring your original ideas to win prizes! Prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd at The Clubhouse~Bikini Bobs- 238-2235 ~Gables- 238-2371 ~Riverbend 238-6919 ~Oakwood-238-2324~Chamber of Commerce 519-238-2001
NOW IS THE TIME TO THINK ABOUT RENTING THAT SUMMER COTTAGE www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

2007-12-13T10:48:00.000-05:00

All the Best of the Season and a Happy and Prosperous New Year......Larry

What party is the REMAX guy running for

2007-09-20T13:34:00.000-04:00

Well Summer is all but over however the nice weather continues. More often than not September is one of the nicest months of the year even for being on the Beach.

Around here Fall is very busy with new listings and a heightened sales activity. Southbend Estates should see some heavy equipment in the next week or so. A lot of people travel this area in the Fall for the various fairs and events and fall colour changes. Ontario's West Coast ( the Lake Huron Shoreline ) will be getting it's own Radio Station this Fall. 104.9 The Beach has begun test programming and will launch in October. It's studios are located in Goderich. The Rotary Trail from Grand Bend to the Pinery is being paved this fall making of course for a much smoother ride. It's also election season with all the signs rapidly popping up everywhere.. we think that REMAX guy is going to win !

2007-08-30T15:04:00.000-04:00

The Sunsets over Lake Huron have been declared among the Top Ten best in the world by National Geographic Magazine
The crowds for the last long weekend of the Summer have begun to swarm the Beach communities along Lake Huron .....and the parties begin.
By next Tuesday most local residents will be happy to have peace and tranquility return to the area. Many will miss the masses especially those retailers and restaurateurs who make most of their yearly sales in the short 10 to 12 week period of Summer.
South of Grand Bend the Grand Opening of Southbend Estates happened Aug 24. Southbend Estates is a huge development which when completed will have just over 400 fully serviced single family lots, a condominium development and a 200,000 sq ft commercial retail and hotel development. The feature of this new community is a 7200 yard golf course designed by Kevin Homes and being built by Gateman-Milloy who have built over 100 golf courses in Canada. Huron Links Golf Course will also have a driving and practise range along with a first class clubhouse. Reservations are being taken now and already more than 10% of the first phase have been selected. If you would like to get in on this exciting new development e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Labour Day Rental

2007-08-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

Summer is rapidly flying by, and we've had outstanding beach weather albeit not so good for area Farmers.

FYI the picture above is from the North pier looking into the Harbour at Grand Bend

Upcoming events include the Zurich Bean Festival August 25. Legends a historical tribute to those incredible artistic musical pioneers from the mid 50's thru the 70's runs August 8 thru September 1 at the Huron Country Playhouse.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY AUGUST 11 1 PM TO 3PM.
TAKE LAKE ROAD FROM Hwy 21 ( Ontario St ) towards the Lake to Harbour Park Court in Grand Bend

Perfect for 2 or 3 families to share..or start your own Bed & Breakfast in this gorgeous 5 bedroom,4.5 bath home. 2 Fabulous suites,each with their own private entrance on the Main level. Each suite has its own bedroom & bath, complete with whirlpool tub. Both suites have kitchen, livingroom with gas fireplace,hardwood & ceramic floors,9`coffered ceilings,halogen lighting & diningroom. West Suite has view of lake! Bright,spacious lower offers familyroom with gas fireplace,kitchenette + 3 more bedrooms plus 2 full baths. Many handicap accessible features throughout. This is a must see , available for less than replacement cost at $ 549,900.00

Looking for a last minute rental for the last week of August including the Labour Day weekend ........www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

2007-07-25T14:41:00.000-04:00

Scenes like this on are few and far between this year. The Beach has been packed almost every day as the summer is approaching the mid way point.

Last weekend was particularily busy with the Not So Pro Volleyball Tournament with close to 100 teams on the Beach and the IHRA Nationals at the Grand Bend Motorplex. A large attendance ( 42,000 )put it in the top 5 in IHRA history. Upcoming events in the area include the 2007 Zurich Fair July 27,28 and 29. More than 1200 participants have already signed up for the RONA MS Bike Tour - Grand Bend to London July 28 and 29, up 15% over last year.

Cutting Edge Music Festival is at the Grand Bend motorplex during the August 3-6 Civic Holiday weekend Details of that are at www.cuttingedgemusicfestival.com.

The 11th Annual Exeter Rodeo is August 11 and 12 and Miss Saigon continues at the Huron Country Playhouse until August 4th.

All in all a lot of busy times coming up. If you're thinking about renting a cottage in Grand Bend the weeks of August 12 to 19 and August 26 thru Sept 3rd ( Labour Day ) are available ..details at www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

Busy weekend in the Bend

2007-07-19T09:54:00.000-04:00

This weekend its a big time in the Bend . Miss Saigon is on at the The Main Stage at The Huron Country Playhouse thru August 4 as well Moms the Word continues at Playhouse 2.
At Grand Bend Motorplex its the 8th Annual Mopar Canadian Nationals
Friday: Gates open 8am Sportsman qualifying 9am - 6pm. PRO PIT PARTY - Meet the Stars 5:30-6:30pm PRO QUALIFYING 7:00pm (Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Top Fuel Dragster & Nitro Funny Car)
Saturday: Gates open 8am Sportsman qualifying 9am -12:30pm, PRO QUALIFYING 1:00pm(Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Nitro Funny Car, Top Fuel Dragster, Super Shockwave Jet Truck) Sportsman Eliminations to follow to 6pm. PRO PIT PARTY - Meet the Stars 5:30-6:30pm KNOLL GAS NITRO JAM 7:00pm (Pro Stock, Alcohol Funny Car, Pro Modified, Top Stock,Nitro Funny Car, Top Fuel Dragster, Super Shockwave Jet Truck followed by Fireworks)
Sunday: Gates open 8am Sportsman eliminations 9:00 am, PRO ELIMINATIONS Rd 1 10:30am Rd 2 Noon Semi Finals 2:00pm, Finals 4:00pm ( Sportsman eliminations continue between rounds)
If thats not enough there's the 5th Annual Not So Pro Volleyball Tournament on the Beach Fri Sat and Sun.

2007-07-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

One sure way to beat the summer heat is Ice Cream and the picture beside shows the number and variety of places offering that treat. This is a picture from an article in this weeks Lakeshore Advance describing the various ice cream locations along the Lake Huron between Port Franks and Grand Bend. Read the complete story at http://www.lakeshoreadvance.com/

If you're still thinking of a Summer Vacation in the Bend and don't think you can find a palce to stay try this link www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm.

There are still about 4 weeks available plus why not try a fall and winter vacation.
Something new ..Hay Communications , the local telephone company, has installed wireless internet access points throughout the Grand Bend Core and Marina areas. Access is free to the Chamber of Commerce website and e-mail and/or buy blocks of time to use while in the area.

2007-06-21T12:07:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of Grand Bend's Harbour. The picture above is current and is looking inland from the Lake. Below is looking out to the Lake in the 1960's. The round signs in the pictures ie Texaco below and the one to the right and top in the top picture are the same, except the newer sign advertises Oakwood Inn.

Summer starts today ( officially ) even though its been quite busy already. Last weekend saw the return of Burgerfest on the Beach in Grand Bend with big crowds enjoying the entertainment.

Last week was another successful Scatcherd Invitational.

On July 6th and 7th there will be a Corvette Weekend in Bayfield. The RE/MAX Ballon will be there on Saturday the 7th. There are still some of you looking for a cottage to rent this year and this link will lead you to one with weeks still available .

www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm

If you're looking to rent or buy or sell please call me and I can help. There are lots of available cottages, homes, Lakefronts and businesses in all price ranges along the coast. Interest rates are still good so don't delay.

Last but not least the Riverbend Bar and Grill in Grand Bend celebrates 10 years in business all day next Wednesday June 27th. Congrats to Doreen and Tracy Ulch. To contact larry call 519 238 5700 or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Summertime and the livin' is easy

2007-06-13T12:26:00.000-04:00

Summer is fast approaching and activity around here is getting exciting. July and August are definately family months. If you're still looking for a Summer rental, here's a new entry that still has weeks available in July and August. www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm. Local guy Greg Gallello is a finalist in Canadian idol. He was at the Colonial last Friday so watch for him to play locally again. This weekend June 16 and 17 is the return of Burgerfest featuring entertainment on the Beach both days. Every Wednesday from 8 AM to 1 PM it's the Grand Bend Farmers market at the Gill St parking lot ( beside the school and library ). Local Zurich resident Helen MacLean was the grand prize winner in the Dream Lottery , congratulations even though it was supposed to have been me. Huron Country Playhouse is active again with a full schedule for the summer. One of Canada's few remaining Drive In theatres is now open for the summer as well. All in all a busy summer ahead and it's maybe it's time you purchased your piece of this action. Call me Larry Broadley and I can help you with your search for a new home, vacation or retirement home along the coast of Lake Huron. 519 238 5700 ask for Larry or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com

A New Rental is Available

2007-05-26T10:25:00.000-04:00

Well we survived another two - four week end and sanity returns. Almost everything is open again in Downtown Grand Bend and as I told you there are a number of new stores this year. If you are thinking of a summer holiday in Grand Bend I've just added a new rental to the market and because it's new all weeks are available so hurray and have a look if what you wanted has already been filled elsewhere.... www.grandbend4sale.com/44walker.htm . Canada Day week is also available at 11 Dietrich www.grandbend4sale.com/11Dietrich.htm . See the pictures at the top.

Now with the nice weather here to stay there is lots of activity: the beach has been full this week and there arelots of boats in the harbour. Don't forget Burgerfest on the Beach June 16 and 17. Saturday ( 17th ) entertainment is Brad Karel and the Thrillbillies 2 to 5 PM and Green River Revival 8 to 11 PM. Sunday is Denise Pelley and Cheryl Lescom 2 to 5 PM. Admission is $5 at the door and it is geared for the whole family ( Licensed by A.G.C.O ).

Here's a picture of the Beach in the 60's

Burgerfest is Back

2007-05-08T10:54:00.000-04:00

Things are really coming alive now that the warm weather has finally come, hopefully to stay. Last weekend traffic downtown was heavy and the number of retailers that were open was exciting. Upcoming openings include a new Archies Junior , Bluenotes, Scoops and Sea Jewels 3 on Main Street. A new restaurant/diner on Ontario St (Hwy 21) in the former I'm Starvin, Grampa Jimmys Scottish Bakery in the former Grapevine Bar on Ontario (21). Recently Sportsmed and Garden Gate opened ; Cranbury Lane moved close to the Bridge and GB Posh opened in their former location ( all on Ontario St ). Future retail opportunities exist at Pineland Pro Hardware( see pic on the right above ). The building and land are for sale as is the business . These can be bought as a package or separately. The former Dollar store space beside the LCBO ( see pic on left ) is also available and if you have any interest in either of these properties or anything else in Grand Bend give me a call at 519 238 5700 or larryb@grandbend4sale.com.

Burgerfest is back in the Bend this year June 16 and 17 on the beach, watch for more info on upcoming events. If you have any comments please feel to e-mail me...Larry

Lovin' The Jungle

2007-04-07T10:02:00.000-04:00

This is 44 Walker St Downtown Grand Bend to the right and 5 Queens Ave Downtown Grand Bend below

The Downtown area of Grand Bend is both fascinating and interesting. Known officially as Plan 24 and affectionately as " The Jungle " many people love it or hate it with more and more moving to the loving it side. The " Jungle" has been party city for decades. Most cottages were built in the 30's, 40's and 50's as unheated unwinterized cabins and of course used only in the summer. During the 60's and 70's it really became "party town" as the "boomers" discovered how easy it was to get here and how great it was to be here.

The lots are small, the downtown bars and the beach are all right at at hand making it cozy, friendly, fun and exciting.

Things are changing and the party image is fading as those same "boomers" are coming back, this time with money and kids and /or thinking of retirement. Renovations, tear downs and rebuilds are everywhere. The key ingredients that made it great still exist and that old real estate adage of " location, location, location" is entirely at play with the great beaches, restaurants, bars and shopping right at hand. Prices are reflecting the increased interest as well. Into the late 1990's and early 2000's almost everything was available under $ 100,000 with an average price around $ 50,000. Now a tear down is hard to find and would be around $ 150,000 with most prices now $ 200,000 and above and increasing. A new 30 house development scheduled to start this year on Queens Ave will have prices $ 300,000 and above as well as 3 new homes being built at Oak and Warwick also touching that price range. Now is the time to jump on the band wagon because there are no new lots being developed anywhere in Grand Bend on the lake side of Hwy 21. This is also a very popular area for people wanting to rent; this time with families in tow . So buying a cottage/home and renting it out a few weeks helps affordability by covering most of your carrying and operating costs. The Party image is all but faded with the exception of the May 24 weekend, but the fun and desirability is stronger than ever. The two cottages at the top of the page are year round homes and both for sale. If interested let me know by phone 519 238 5700 or e-mail larryb@grandbend4sale.com.

Return of the Fishing Boats

2007-03-29T10:14:00.000-04:00

Last weeks picture of Grand Bend's Main St in the 50's created quite a few comments and e-mails so this week this picture is of the same Main Street in the 1930's, again looking toward the Lake. Also if you want to see more pictures of the Grand Bend area from the past use this link
http://www.grandbend4sale.com/OLdAreaPics.htm

Spring is here and some of the last couple of days have been fabulous. One sign of Spring is the fishing boats returning. Early last week they broke thru the ice at the Harbour and at least one is in and now working. Another sign of Spring is the number of workers showing up at various locations on Main St renovating and getting ready to open.Calls on Real Estate have increased markedly and now is the time to buy if you want to be here for the May 2-4. I also have several business opportunities available so if your thinking, act now and give me a call or e-mail 519 238 5700 or larryb@grandbend4sale.com

Looking Toward Knapps Arcade

2007-03-20T15:36:00.000-04:00

This is picture of Main Street Grand Bend looking toward the Lake in the 1950's. To see more pics of Grand Bend from the past go to www.grandbend4sale.com/OLdAreaPics.htm

The official start of Spring is just a couple of hours away so I thought it might be nice to see a summer pic, so why not one from the past.

Cheaper Heating Next Year

2007-03-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

Made it thru the Ides of March and now on to St Paddy's Day. This time change took a little getting used to; the warm weather the first of the week took no time getting used to. I haven't updated my house construction lately so I will. We've been taking a break since Christmas but now the warmer ( I hope ) weather is here and it's back to work. The main floor is virtually complete so now we have to finish the garage which will let us then insulate the roof of the garage and add more to the house.. good time you say, well it just got too cold too work in the garage. Think how much cheaper heating will be next year. Work begins on the Lower Level too and then the Yard.
Activity continues around town with the new Flower shop at the corner of River Road and Ontario St now open. The Census is out and Lambton Shores grew 5.5% as did Grand Bend which is within Lambton Shores.There is no doubt as more and more Baby Boomers prepare to retire and with modern technology, this is THE place to live.