LivingNORTH OF THE CITY

A Quarterly Market Analysis of York Region’s Executive, Estate, and Acreage Properties

Local Expertise, Global Connections

Vol. 1 Issue 4

A DISTINCTIVE PROPERTY DESERVES A DISTINCTIVE MARKETING PLAN.

Sotheby’s International Realty brings property marketing to a new level. We offer a comprehensive, global approach to advertising, utilizing the strength of our international network to reach as many qualified potential buyers as possible. Our marketing programs include:

PRINT MARKETINGWe have an in-house team that will create unique and high-impact marketing materials to complement our sales approach to attract qualified buyers to your home. Our clients benefit from exclusive corporate rates and prime placement in local, national, and international publications including the Globe and Mail, Architectural Digest, Robb Report, Preview Magazine, New York Times, Gourmet, International Herald Tribune, The Wall Street Journal and Country Life. DIGITAL MARKETINGYour property will receive online exposure on sothebysrealty.ca and sothebysrealty.com, as well as on a number of other highly trafficked sites including those of the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

NETWORK MARKETINGThe powerful global marketing and referral resources of Sotheby’s International Realty, combined with our sophisticated marketing programs, provide highly effective marketing strategies for home sellers. In addition to the various print and digital media opportunities, your property will be showcased in our network of Canadian and international offices.

PUBLIC RELATIONSDoes your home have a story to tell? By working closely with a distinguished public relations firm, you can gain additional international exposure for your property in some of the world’s most respected publications.

Sotheby’s was founded in London in 1774 as an auction bookseller. It is currently represented in over 35 countries and conducts auctions on five continents. Sotheby’s went public and listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 1988.

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY: A HERITAGE RICH IN HISTORY

A PRESTIGIOUS BRAND BUILT ON A 260-YEAR REPUTATION

Sotheby’s International Realty® was founded in 1976 and its early mission was to augment the auction business by offering a complete package of estate disposition services.

Today, Sotheby’s International Realty operates in more than 500 offices in key residential and resort markets in 39 countries.

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada is locally owned and operated by some of North America’s most experienced professionals. We currently have ten offices nationwide, with two located in Ontario. We provide our clients with the highest standard of professional, intelligent real estate services.

THE SOTHEBY'S STORY

Allison ParentM.B.A., B.A.Sc. (Civil Eng.)Sales Representativee. aparent@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.910.4507www.allisonparent.com

Lisa ClarkB.A.A., e-PRO®

Sales Representativee. lclark@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.258.6053www.lisaclark.ca

LOCAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Recent stories in the media have focused on how well the Greater Toronto Area has performed this past quarter. The media has given a number of reasons for this – ranging from low interest rates, to pent up demand, to increasing consumer confidence. They’ve even described how first-time purchasers entering the market are making up the bulk of transactions. A closer look at the sales data for the last three months reveals that only approximately 5% of transactions in York Region are for properties valued for more than $750,000 - the top-tier of the real estate market represents a small sliver of the total. Most real estate brokerages conduct a large volume of sales in the lower price ranges, with only a small percentage in the top tier. Others, such as Sotheby’s International Realty, specialize in selling unique, distinctive homes that truly benefit from savvy marketing programs with global reach. You’ll find differences in the type of print media used, photography, websites and a host of other details that make the difference between basic and deluxe. If your property falls in the luxury range, why not ensure that the sales and marketing techniques used to sell your home reflect it's uniqueness.

If you are in the process of seeking a sales representative to market your home, ensure that he or she has the experience to match its value. We invite you to call us for a complimentary consultation, and to explore our approach to marketing distinctive homes.

Best regards,

If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of International Architecture and Design, Sotheby’s International Realty RESIDE Magazine, or Sotheby’s Preview, please call or email us (contact information noted above).

A Review of Third Quarter 2009 Vol 1 Issue 4

On the Cover,Autumn arrives in Waterloo. Property ID#4000009958

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In the third quarter of 2009, York Region experienced a continuing rally in the real estate market. The market is very different from a year ago, when we began to see a Buyer's market emerge, listing volumes increase, and when sales volume started to tumble.

The top chart outlines the total number of units available for sale each month. There were 4,929 units available for sale in Q3-2009 - a 46% decrease from Q3-2008. The number of units available in September 2009 is slightly higher than the number available in August 2009, which is consistent with seasonal market trends - the result of homes that did not sell during the prime summer season.

The second chart shows the number of detached homes sold each month. We have seen an overall increase of 52% in unit sales in the third quarter of 2009 versus the same period in 2008. However, it should be noted that the rate of increase has slowed throughout the quarter, which is quite normal as we enter the final quarter of the year. Unit sales in July increased a remarkable 66% over last year, while unit sales in September 2009 were 40% higher than September 2008.

The final chart outlines the Sales-to-Inventory ratio for York Region's real estate market. To calculate the ratio, we take the total number of sales in a given time frame and divide that by the total inventory for the same period. The general consensus in the real estate industry is that a balanced market occurs when this ratio lies between 15% and 25%. We have been experiencing a Seller's Market since April 2009, however the Sales-to-Inventory ratio has been decreasing throughout the third quarter - from a rate of 62% in July 2009 to a rate of 48% in September 2009- again this is most likely due to the seasonal influences that affect real estate markets.

A rtfully uniting extraordinary properties with extraordinary lives

LIVING NORTH OF THE CITY

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†Note: Our commentary is based on detached residential properties listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS ®) in TREB map areas N01-N08 and N10-N14

A rtfully uniting extraordinary properties with extraordinary lives

LUXURY MARKET REPORT

Year-to-date sales in the luxury bracket, at 704 properties, were up almost 11% compared to the first nine months of 2008. During the months of July, August, and September 2009, 213 detached homes sold in southern York Region* for $750,000 or more, up 72% in volume over the same period in 2008. Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and King posted top sales of greater than $3 million, while the highest sales in Thornhill and Aurora reached over $2 million.

The following section provides an overview of properties listed at or sold for $750,000 or greater during the third quarter of 2009.

AuroraSeventeen properties sold in Aurora, with a top sale of $2.7 million, which was sold by Sotheby's International Realty Canada. There are 49 active listings, with the highest listing being offered at $4.7 million. Median days on market were up almost 30%, from 37 in Q3-2008 to 48 in Q3-2009. Median list price was up 23%, from $932,000 in Q3-2008 to $1.149 million in 2009. KingThe inventory absorption in King was slow during Q3-2009, with only eight properties selling in the $750,000 and above category. One hundred and fifteen properties are currently for sale, with the top listing being offered at $4.5 million. The highest sale in the quarter was $3.6 million, the highest in our profiled communities. NewmarketEleven luxury homes are for sale in Newmarket, with the highest listing being offered at $1.95 million, nearly 10% higher than the top listing in Q3-2008. Days on market increased significantly from the same period last year, from 25 during Q3-2008 to 54 in Q3-2009. One luxury home sold in the quarter. Richmond HillRichmond Hill posted a $3+ million sale again this quarter. Inventory in the luxury bracket is moving quickly, with properties selling on average in 24 days, at 97% of asking price. One hundred and fifty-four properties are currently for sale, with the highest listing being offered at $4.25 million. Eighty-six properties sold in the quarter, more than double the 33 sold in Q3-2008, but a decrease from the 92 sold in Q2-2009. ThornhillNinety luxury homes are currently for sale in the community of Thornhill. During Q3-2009, 24 homes sold for greater than $750,000 at a median price of $1.025 million. Days on market were nearly double compared to the same period in 2008, up from 25 during Q3-2008 to 52 in Q3-2009. The highest sale was $2.85 million, while the highest listing is $9.4 million. Unionville/MarkhamThe inventory to sales ratio in Unionville/Markham is one of the tightest in the study area, with 38 homes selling during the quarter with only 69 homes available for sale. Median days on market were 19, down significantly from 31 last year and 29 in Q2-2009. The highest sale this quarter was $1.65 million, while the highest listing is $2.89 million. VaughanDuring Q3-2009, 21 homes sold, up from 18 in Q3-2008. Days on market were down to 36, a reduction of 13% over the same period last year. The highest sale reached $3.2 million, while the highest listing is for $4.78 million. Ninety-three luxury properties are currently for sale in the area. Whitchurch / StouffvilleThe Whitchurch / Stouffville area achieved a high sale of $1.45 million in the quarter, with 18 luxury properties – more than double the same time period in 2008 – trading hands during the same time period. Properties were on the market for 53 days. There are currently 113 properties for sale over $750,000. The median sold price in this area this quarter was $972,000, with the top sale at $1.45 million. The top listing is being offered for $4.25 million.

*Note: Our commentary is based on detached residential properties listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS ®) in TREB map areas N01-N08 and N10-N14, with a sold price of $750,000 or greater, that sold during the months of July, August, and September 2009. Data is accurate as of September 30, 2009. For Days on Market calculations, we used median.

To learn more about our featured properties, please visit our international website, www.sothebysrealty.com, and enter the Property ID # associated with each property, or contact the listing agent directly.

14716 Creditview Road, Caledon, ON ID# 4000011386 Ideally located farm on 89+ acres in Cheltenham. Good opportunity for future development options with over 865ft of frontage on Creditview Road. Property contains one of a kind custom built 2-storey log home & large barn with office.

Allison Parent* www.allisonparent.com (c) 416.910.4507

85645 Forest Lane, Goderich, ON ID# 4000011989Extraordinary views are yours to enjoy from this stunning residence, located on almost 45 acres of secluded land fronting onto Lake Huron. With two residences, this is the perfect family retreat! The tennis court, fire pit, inground pool & poolhouse, indoor games room & sauna offer endless hours of entertainment.

Lisa Clark* www.lisaclark.ca (c) 416.258.6053Allison Parent* www.allisonparent.com (c) 416.910.4507

5507 Tenth Line, Erin, ON ID# 4000012390This 98.54 acre property offers an ideal residential development opportunity! Now included in the Official Plan of Erin Township for development.

Allison Parent* www.allisonparent.com (c) 416.910.4507

OUR FEATURED PROPERTIES

36 Kraft Drive, Waterloo, ON ID# 4000009958Enjoy the peace and tranquility of country living, minutes from the city. This beautiful estate home spans 11,000 square feet, and sits on 112 acres of landscaped grounds, overlooking Waterloo’s Grand River. Features include dramatic custom millwork and finishings throughout, a spectacular indoor pool with retractable glass roof, a tennis court, cabana, walking trails, and four ponds. Live and entertain in grand style.

Lisa Clark* www.lisaclark.ca (c) 416.258.6053Allison Parent* www.allisonparent.com (c) 416.910.4507

To learn more about our featured properties, please visit our international website, www.sothebysrealty.com, and enter the Property ID # associated with each property, or contact the listing agent directly.

Stone Century Inn, Westport, ON ID# 4000012281Host to local weddings, conferences and retreats, this Inn is located on approximately 50 acres of gorgeous countryside. This unique property boasts six buildings along with a new pool (2008) and man-made pond - the perfect backdrop for wedding ceremonies and other special celebrations.

Allison Parent* www.allisonparent.com (c) 416.910.4507

OUR FEATURED PROPERTIES

ABOUT US

Lisa's interest in assessing market conditions and developing pricing strategies is largely a result of her background prior to joining Sotheby's - she was a consultant with an international consulting firm, and also owned her own consulting business. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree, and is a certified e-PRO®. She is a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, the Markham Board of Trade, and the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce. Lisa grew up in Woodbridge, and is a long-time resident and active community member in Thornhill, where she currently lives with her husband and four children.

Over the years, Allison has worked with the country's top-ranked luxury real estate companies offering high-quality service to clients in all price ranges. Having formerly worked in the high-technology industry in a business leadership role, she is accustomed to working in fast-paced, high-stress environments. During her 10+ years in this industry, Allison managed client accounts that generated over $100 MILLION in annual revenue. Allison holds an M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration) degree from the Schulich School of Business at York University, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo. She currently resides in Newmarket with her husband and two sons.

Allison ParentM.B.A., B.A.Sc. (Civil Eng.)*Sales Representativee. aparent@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.910.4507www.allisonparent.com

Lisa ClarkB.A.A., e-PRO®

*Sales Representativee. lclark@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.258.6053www.lisaclark.ca

L Tower Penthouse Suites, Toronto, ON Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the iconic L Tower will rise 57 stories at the corner of Yonge and Front. The luxurious penthouse suites range in size from 1,106sf to 2,444sf. Original Munge Leung-designed kitchens, 10ft ceilings and other decadent features define the space. Groundbreaking in October, 2009.

Lisa Clark* www.lisaclark.ca (c) 416.258.6053

Please accept this invitation to call us and discover the difference of Sotheby’s International Realty®.

We look forward to representing you.

For further information, please contact:

Sotheby's International Realty Canada, Brokerage497 Davenport Road

Toronto, ON M4V 1B7416.960.9995

sothebysrealty.ca

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Brokerage. Independently owned and operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

llison ParentM.B.A., B.A.Sc. (Civil Eng.)Sales Representativee. aparent@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.910.4507www.allisonparent.com

Richmond Hill, Aurora, King, Caledon, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Newmarket and Uxbridge

A isa ClarkB.A.A., e-PRO™

Sales Representativee. lclark@sothebysrealty.cac. 416.258.6053www.lisaclark.ca

Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Woodbridge, Kleinburg, Markham, Vaughan and Unionville

L