Finding the perfect home can be stressful, especially if you have kids. It’s not just the house, condo, or townhome you choose that matters, but the neighbourhood as well. From parks and playgrounds to nearby grocery stores to an overall family-friendly vibe, there’s no shortage of factors to consider. But for most parents, local schools are near the top of the list. The good news is, here in Hamilton, there are plenty of places for your children to get a fantastic education—from kindergarten through grade 12.

If you’re looking for the right school for your kids, here are five of Hamilton’s very best options for your consideration…

1) Mountain View Junior Public School

Searching for a highly supportive educational environment for your child? Consider Mountain View Junior Public School. This Stoney Creek learning institution offers a variety of literacy and math programs, which contribute to its students’ solid academic performances. Attendees score above average on tests administered by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO), and a good deal of that success comes from the school’s balanced approach to learning. Kids get daily nutrition and exercise breaks—and when it comes to extracurriculars, they have their fair share of options!

2) Orchard Park School

If you have older kids, you might want to consider sending them to another Stoney Creek mainstay—Orchard Park School. First off, the staff here is seriously devoted to preparing students for college, university, and adult life. They offer a variety of post-secondary prep courses, along with programs to get kids ready for career paths as diverse as hospitality, robotics, and fashion. For students who need a bit of academic assistance (or just some peace and quiet), the school’s Homework Club offers a friendly workspace and free tutoring services. Given the supportiveness offered by Orchard Park teachers, we think there must be something in the water in Stoney Creek! (Forgive us, we couldn’t resist).

3) Islamic School of Hamilton

Fraser Institute school rankings are considered the most comprehensive in Canada. Last year, the organization gave the Islamic School of Hamilton an extremely impressive score of 9.9. These hallowed halls fared even better the year before, receiving a perfect 10—effectively making it the best elementary school in Ontario. In addition English language instruction, students here take Arabic and French studies. Put simply, if your child is the right fit for the Islamic School of Hamilton, they’ll receive the finest private education available.

4) Norwood Park Elementary School

With a high percentage of students who are at or above the provincial standard for reading, writing, and math, Norwood Park Elementary School is one of the best places for your children to learn the fundamentals. If you value advanced French skills, there’s yet another reason to consider this Hamilton institution. The Immersion program here is truly impressive—and the school even offers a fun annual event known as French Cafe. In one of the highlights of the year, 8th grade students serve pastries and refreshments—all the while practicing their second language!

5) Corpus Christi Catholic Elementary School

If you’re hoping to give your kids a high-quality, faith-based education, look no further than Corpus Christi Catholic Elementary School. Students here excel when it comes to the basics, such as reading and writing. Their performances are equally impressive when it comes to recreation (in particular, the volleyball and hockey teams are top-notch). But it’s the school’s family life courses that really set it apart. Rooted in Christian values, they’re part of what makes Corpus Christi so special in the eyes of Catholic parents!

Interested in learning more about life in Hamilton? Curious about some of the beautiful homes on the market here? Get in touch—we’d love to show you what makes life in this community so great!

It’s happening. Summer is coming to an end. While it’s always a little sad to pack away the bathing suits and pull out the sweaters, let’s not forget that there’s plenty to love about fall—especially if you live in Burlington. We’re not just talking about the beautiful leaves you can see in the city, nor the warming lattes that are perfectly-crafted at Tamp Coffee. We also mean the fun-filled autumn events that make us want to get outside and explore!

If you’re looking to shake off those end-of-summer blues, check out our top five fall events in Burlington…

1) Burlington Ribfest

If you’re a fan of ribs (and really, who isn’t), Burlington Ribfest is the perfect place to start off the season right. This Labour Day weekend, strap on your bib and dig into some of the tastiest, tenderest meat you’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill festival. Not only is this Burlington gathering the largest Ribfest in Canada, it’s also one of the top 100 must-attend celebrations for 2019, according to Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO).

2) Applefest Fall Fair

The school year is starting, so why not take the kids out for an experience that will be both fun and educational. On September 22nd, Ireland House Museum will bring the past to life with captivating historical demonstrations. If history’s not your thing, you’re in luck. You’ll also find live entertainment, food trucks, an antique car show, a Kids Farm Zone, and more. It’s all part of the Applefest Fall Fair! If you attend, we can promise you one thing: you won’t run out of things to do.

3) Doors Open Burlington

On Saturday, September 28th, take a peek inside some of our city’s most interesting and culturally-significant spaces as part of Open Doors Burlington. We’re talking local heritage sites, beautiful buildings, and a ton of other places you’ve always been curious about. This year, you can check out the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Joseph Brant Museum, and the Nickel Brook Brewing Company (among other fascinating locations) for free.

4) Appleby Line Street Festival

If you’re looking for a true community celebration, check out the Appleby Line Festival. Put simply, this is the perfect place to spend a fun fall day with your neighbours. On September 29th, a section of Appleby Line will be shut down to make way for local vendors, family-friendly entertainment, and can’t-miss attractions. Grab a tasty treat from a food truck, see some antique cars on display, check out the bed race (yes, you read that right), and watch the kids play at one of the on-site bouncy castles.

5) Raise the Woof

Are you a dog lover? A comedy fanatic? We can relate. That’s why we’re so excited about Raise the Woof. Presented by the Burlington Humane Society, this gut-busting event exists for a good cause—to help local animal shelters and rescue groups. When October 19th rolls around, get a sitter for the kids and head down to the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Centre. This is a night to grab a drink (or two), get comfortable, and enjoy a few laughs.

Interested in learning more about life in Burlington? Curious about some of the beautiful homes on the market here? Get in touch—we’d love to show you what makes life in this community so great!

One of our favourite things about living in Hamilton is the incredible food scene. While we’ve written about some of the city’s top eateries before, there’s a whole lot of ground we haven’t covered. Culinary hotspots are springing up all over our little corner of the world, so we thought we’d narrow our focus to one of Hamilton’s most vibrant (and foodie-friendly) communities: Waterdown. As the popularity of this scenic village has exploded, so too have the number of places to enjoy a mouth-watering meal in the area.

From old favourites to new gems, here are five Waterdown eateries to put on your “must-visit” list…

1) Kamoosh Bistro

Are you a lover of fine Italian food? Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a candlelit dinner, Kamoosh Bistro has you covered. Established by executive chef Koosh Kahnamoui in 2009, this Main Street North eatery has received a whole lot of fanfare. It’s not hard to see why. With its farm-fresh ingredients and from-scratch approach, Kamoosh serves up dishes that are practically bursting with flavour. Beef carpaccio, lobster ravioli, mushroom risotto—no matter what you order, one thing is certain: you won’t be disappointed.

2) Marciano’s Pasta Cafe

Next on our list, another spot devoted to perfectly-prepared Italian fare. Marciano’s Pasta Cafe is the ideal place to grab a thin-crust pizza, rich plate of pasta carbonara, or some tender veal parmigiana. The food here is flavourful and well-balanced, while the presentation is attractive without being fussy or pretentious. In other words: every fan of Italian food will feel comfortable at Marciano’s, whether it’s your pickiest relative or the date you’re hoping to impress. So the next time you’re looking for something substantial to nosh on, pop into this cozy space on Mill Street South!

3) Lord Byron Steak & Seafood House

If you enjoy good surf n’ turf—and a high-quality bottle of wine—then Lord Byron Steak & Seafood House just might become your fine dining go-to. Equipped with a fireplace and ultra-cozy wood paneling, the restaurant’s interior is as elegant as it is inviting. The service is fantastic, and having your food flambéd right in front of you is just…well, fun. If you arrive hungry, we suggest starting with the buttery escargot before moving on to something more some filling, like the prime rib, filet mignon, or king crab legs.

4) Real Burger

There’s nothing quite like a hamburger when it’s done right. We’re talking high-quality beef, grilled (and smashed) to perfection, with all your favourite toppings. That’s exactly what Real Burger delivers—and a whole lot more. This popular Waterdown eatery has something for everyone, from its tender chicken sandwich to its decadent philly cheese steak. In addition to the fantastic grub, food lovers enjoy Real Burger for its atmosphere. If you decide to dine in, you’ll enjoy stylish, modern surroundings—and some truly stunning photography, which adorns the walls.

5) Waterdown Tea House

Is afternoon tea a family tradition, or something fun you’d like to try? Either way, we know the perfect spot to have it. The recently restored Waterdown Tea House serves a wide selection of teas, along with all the staples necessary to make the occasion special. Your sandwiches, scones, and clotted cream will be presented with a level of care and attention that’s usually reserved for royalty. If you’re anything like us, you’ll also be completely charmed by your surroundings. The house where you’ll be sipping your tea dates back to the 1800s, but recent touches like polka dot wallpaper give it an air of fun.

Interested in learning more about life in Waterdown? Curious about some of the beautiful homes on the market here? Get in touch—we’d love to show you what makes life in this community so great!

We’ve said it a million times, but it bears repeating: Hamilton is a great place to put down roots. For many parents who decide to move to Hamilton or raise their kids here, it’s not just the great schools and tight-knit communities that make this city the ideal place to call home. It’s also the sheer number of all-ages activities available. To tell you the truth, we had trouble narrowing this list down to just a small handful of enjoyable things to do!

If you’re looking for family fun in Hamilton, here are five must-visit places in the area…

1) Explore Dundurn Castle

Dundurn Castle is one of Hamilton’s major attractions, but did you know that this 18,000-square-foot villa is as fun for school-age kids as it is for adults? Built for politician and businessman Sir Alan Napier Mcnabb, this grand living space was constructed between 1834 and 1835. Its Italiante architecture is a true marvel—as is the scenery on the grounds outside, which overlook Burlington Bay. So round up the family for a guided tour. You’ll enjoy taking a peek into Ontario’s history, and the kids, well…they’ll love wandering around a massive castle. Who says educational experiences can’t also be fun?

2) Cool down at Wild Waterworks

When the weather is warm, Wild Waterworks is the place to be. This ultra-fun, family-friendly attraction is a Confederation Park staple. If you’re spending a full day at the waterpark, you might want to start by renting a cabana. Complete with lounging chairs and tables, these spaces are perfect for decamping as a family before you start exploring. Next up, take the kids to check out the park’s many attractions, which include thrilling body slides, a lazy tube ride, and one of the largest wave pools in Canada. There’s even a “Little Squirts” area that features slides and fountains for the littlest members of your family.

3) Visit the Hamilton Children’s Museum

While there are plenty of fun things to do with older kids in the city, entertaining little ones can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why we’re so lucky to have an engaging space that even very young children can enjoy! Located in Gage Park, the Hamilton Children’s Museum is a historic home that’s been converted into a big play centre. You’ll find a craft room, tons of toys and dress-up items, play equipment, and much more. One of the most notable exhibit galleries is designed to mimic a large ship—the perfect environment for kids to exercise their imaginations. Put simply, the Hamilton Children’s Museum is a can’t-miss attraction if you have toddlers or younger kids!

4) Grab a bite at a kid-friendly eatery

We’ve written about Hamilton’s food scene before, and for good reason. But as excited as we are about the many creative eateries popping up around the city, not all of them are child-friendly. Luckily, foodies with kids have some very solid options. Chicago Style Pizza is one of our favourite local go-to’s for families who love Italian, while HAMBRGR serves up perfectly-crafted burgers that are a cut above the average. If you’re looking for a lot of different options, try Earth to Table Bread Bar. In addition to kiddie classics like mac n’ cheese, you’ll find gourmet salads, sandwiches, and sides. At both the James and Locke Street locations, there’s a little bit of something for everyone!

5) Spend a day at the park

One of the best things about Hamilton is its beautiful green spaces. Gage Park is one of our all-time favourites—and not just because it’s home to the Hamilton Children’s Museum. Here, you’ll find a fantastic playground, an over 180,000-square-foot greenhouse, and an abundance of nature paths to explore. Throughout the year, there’s also no shortage of family-friendly events to attend. Case in point: the Northern Heat Festival, which will be taking place on August 10th. Check out some top-notch live performances while enjoying an ice cream cone or funnel cake at this annual event! Other beloved Hamilton green spaces include Bayfront and Sealey Parks.

Interested in learning more about life in Hamilton, and maybe even seeing some of the beautiful homes on the market here? Get in touch—we’d love to show you what makes life in this city so great!

Whether it’s your first time renting or you’re moving to a different unit, there are many factors to consider when renting. While moving to a new home can be exciting, there are a few things you should do to ensure that the process goes smoothly. Justin Podmoroff, who works as a leasing specialist with Woolcott Real Estate, shares his top three tips below.

1) Consider your monthly costs 

You’ve put together your first month’s rent and you’re good to go, right? Wrong. Besides the monthly rent, there are a few other costs you’ll need to consider when renting. It’s important to know what to expect, because the expenses can come as a shock if you’re not prepared. Some of the things you’ll want to think about include furnishings and moving costs. Additionally, after you’ve moved in, there will be a number of ongoing costs to factor in—such as utilities (gas, hydro, water, phone, internet, and cable) along with tenant insurance. It’s a good idea to get a sense of how much initial and ongoing costs tend to total for the type of home you’re looking at in your area. This step is important because it can have a major impact on your initial monthly rental budget.

2) Remember: your deposit is due within 24 hours

Once your monthly budget is worked out, it’s time to view some potential new homes! Before you get started, ensure that you have the necessary funds on hand so you can secure your dream pad right away. Typically, landlords request first and last month’s rent as a deposit, and this needs to be submitted within 24 hours of an accepted offer to lease. Don’t worry – this deposit can only be used for last month’s rent (requesting damage deposits is illegal for landlords in Ontario).

3) Fill out the proper paperwork 

When it comes to renting a house or apartment, many people are unaware of the supporting documents they’ll need. A landlord typically likes to review the following: a detailed credit report, a reference letter from your current landlord, a letter of employment, and two recent paystubs. All of these items will help the landlord determine if you’re a good potential tenant. Your Realtor will put these documents together as part of an offer to lease package for the landlord to consider. Upon an accepted offer, you and the landlord will complete the mandatory Ontario Residential Tenancy Agreement forms to ensure that you’re both protected.

If you’re interested in renting, call Woolcott Real Estate at 905 332 9223 today! We have an in-house leasing team with specialized knowledge in the rental market—and they’re here to protect your interests.

There’s no doubt that purchasing a home can be complicated. And for many buyers, applying for a mortgage is one of the most confusing steps. It’s not just the logistics of getting a loan that can be tricky—it’s also figuring out where to go when you need one. While banks are often considered the obvious go-to, mortgage brokers are becoming more popular by the day. The truth is that both options can come with benefits and drawbacks, and the one that’s right for you will depend on your home-buying needs, goals and preferences.

If you’re ready for a mortgage and can’t decide between a bank or a broker, consider these major pros and cons…

Brokers: the pros

Now more than ever before, home buyers are turning to mortgage brokers when they need financing. There are a few reasons why you might want to follow their lead.

Access to more financial products

If you go to your bank for a mortgage, they’ll only offer you their own financial products and services. Not so when it comes to brokers, who can present you with many different options from various lending institutions. The advantages can range from lower interest rates to better terms and conditions.

Less leg work for you

If you work with a broker, they’ll shop around, find the best deals out there, and present them to you. In other words, you won’t have to spend your time and effort scouring the marketplace—and you can avoid a whole lot of stress.

They specialize in mortgages

Brokers are completely focused on mortgages, which are their sole area of expertise. As a result, they devote a lot of their time to maintaining ongoing relationships with lenders—including some you may not find on your own. Brokers also know who you shouldn’t work with (due to hidden fees and other often-overlooked issues).

Brokers: the cons

While there are a whole lot of potential benefits associated with going the broker route, there are also some reasons why you might choose to work with your bank instead.

A broker doesn’t know you

You have a preexisting relationship with your bank, and they know your financial situation inside and out. In contrast, a broker may not have the same in-depth understanding of how different mortgage options will impact your debts, your investments, and your future plans.

They may be less stable

There’s a certain amount of peace of mind associated with choosing one of the big banks. They’re established and efficient, which can mean less risk on your end. Having said that, it would be a mistake to assume that working with a broker is hazardous. To reduce any potential risk, do your homework and ask the right questions.

Banks: the pros

Though many home buyers have begun turning to brokers for their mortgages, many remain loyal to their banks. Here’s why you might consider doing the same.

Your existing relationship

Put simply, you know your bank. Thanks to firsthand experience, you’re already familiar with how they do business. That level of trust can translate into fewer questions and less confusion on your end, which will likely mean a smoother process and less stress overall.

They can provide the big picture

Your financial history can be very helpful when it comes time to apply for a mortgage. Your bank knows your account balances, your credit card payments, and more. Armed with this information, they’re in a good position to provide you with efficient service—and help you achieve your short and long-term goals.

A sense of security

The big banks offer a great deal of stability, and they have well-established processes in place. Many borrowers just won’t get the same feeling of security from working with a broker as they will from a major financial institution.

Banks: the cons

There are a few potential cons associated with getting a mortgage from your bank. Here’s the biggest.

Access to fewer products

Of course, the biggest potential downside of working with a bank is the fact that they’ll only present you with their own products. When you have fewer options, you might not wind up with the best deal available. The good news is, you may be able to negotiate with your bank for a lower rate than they offer right off the bat—and your pre-existing relationship could go a long way if you do.

At first glance, obtaining a mortgage can look pretty complex. So it’s no surprise that many first-timers get tripped up when it comes time to start the process. The good news is, you have a choice. With a bit of consideration and some advice from a real estate agent who knows the local lending landscape, you can find the solution that will work for you.

Are you ready to buy your dream home? We have the knowledge and experience to act as your guides at every step. Get in touch—we’d love to help!