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www.oakvillebeaver.com industry Siobhan Evans news how the economy is perceived," said Darlene Fraser, VP of Sales and Marketing for Landmart Homes. "We have all felt the effects of the U.S. housing crisis, but the Canadian market is set up in such a way to protect us." Paikin points out that it seems that the goal in the U.S. for some time seemed to be to have as big a mortgage as possible. "The market here is much more stable," said Paikin. "People in Canada have a goal of having a mortgage and eventually owning their home." For first buyers particularly, it seems that the time to buy a new home has never been better. Those with reliable incomes, who have shied away from entering the real estate market either living with relatives or renting, are poised to benefit from some of the best deals the new homes industry has offered in years. "If you have stability in your job, I don't think there's been a better time in past ten years," said Paikin. "It's a fabulous time. (First time buyers) are now able to buy a product from us that they could not have dreamed of purchasing two years ago ­ and the rates are much lower." Realizing that buyers now have more choice than ever, Fraser says that Landmart Homes has taken measures to attract pur- The Oakville Beaver, Friday January 16, 2009 - 23 Timing couldn't be better for first-time buyers entering the real estate market Welcome to 2009...it's a new year, a new beginning for all and, despite all the talk of doom and gloom, perhaps the most ideal time in years to break into the new homes market. While things south of the border may be not have stabilized quite yet, here in Ontario the numbers are not so frightening ­ according to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing starts in Hamilton were actually up 21% from January through November 2008 and many experts predict a fairly steady 2009, with minimal slowdowns. "In 12 months I think we will all look back and say `Why didn't I purchase those stocks, or buy that house or that car," said Jeff Paikin, President of New Horizon Homes. "There is what I would call a hesitancy among legitimate buyers, a `sheep mentality.' People like to follow, but the people who lead are the ones who will win." Similarly, many economists recommend finding out what most people are doing in the stock market and then doing the opposite, as opposed to buying after noticeable growth or selling in a depressed market. "It's all about perception. The problem lies in the economy but more importantly chasers. "The market is slightly slower than usual, so as a builder we are more lenient with our deposit structure and are offering more flexibility with closing dates. Whatever we can do to help our purchasers feel more secure," said Fraser. What about those with a home to sell? Fraser points out that the local resale market has been overpriced. "People list their homes at whatever they feel the market will bear," she explains. Here in Burlington, the past few years have seen your average, single-family home selling for well over $300,000. 2009 numbers may be slightly lower. "It's not that they are losing money, they simply aren't making as much as they would have two or three years ago," she explains. Members of the Ontario Home Builder's Association (OHBA) recently surveyed said infrastructure and job creation should be the province's top priorities in its 2009 budget. "Moving forward with infrastructure projects will help on two fronts," noted Frank Giannone, President of the Ontario Home Builders' Association. "People will continue to work and we can ensure adequate roads, transit and residential services are upgraded and expanded. Now is the time to lay the foundation for future growth and prosperity." Giannone also noted that most builders are reporting they have no plans to lay off staff in 2009. "That's a good sign that our members have made the necessary adjustments to keep their businesses up and running." Fraser warns potential buyers against waiting too long to make their move. "I think many people are being falsely advised to wait," said Fraser. Landmart Homes, along with Homes by DeSantis based in Stoney Creek and Starwood Homes based in Ancaster, have recently implemented price guarantees for the next 12 months. Any price adjustments that take place over the course of the year will be extended to those who purchase today. For those with homes to sell, Landmart is offering flexible closing dates without penalty, allowing purchasers a little extra breathing room. So for those who have held off on making any moves in the real estate market, the outlook is more favourable than anticipated. Those who have homes to sell can take advantage of builders who are making every effort to work with new purchasers and for first-time buyers with a reliable income, the time to own your own home has never been better.