Edmonton Real Estate Investor

Goal Setting - The Millar Way

2012-01-19T12:23:00.003-07:00

Todd was at an all day goal setting workshop this week. It made me realize we are fanatic about goal setting. I'll outline our annual goal setting strategy all done on January 1:

*Five year goals that we push forward every year and review

*The year's goals of pleasure including travel, fitness and fun achievements. This year Ronan did his first set amongst them are stronger kicks in martial arts and catching a fish

*The year's business goals broken down into each month including targets and the reward for achieving them. These are taken from the 5 year goals

*90 day goals are taken from the yearly goals reviewed every 90 days

*A weekly goal sheet that corresponds directly to 90 day goals if goals aren't met we just keep rewriting them into smaller more doable chunks

The thing is it's lots of fun! Especially when you go back and look at what you've written.It's easier to reach goals once you set your mind to it, written them down and broken them into doable chunks.

"Every ceiling, when reached, becomes a floor, upon which one walks as a matter of course and prescriptive right." Aldous Huxley

"If you don't know where you are going,
you'll end up someplace else." Yogi Berra

The Keystone X-L Pipe Conundrum II

2012-01-19T12:13:00.002-07:00

It's unfortunate that the Keystone pipe was shelved but it is merely one of many projects on the go. When Americans decide to import oil from a safe and friendly country at a greater discount perhaps we'll send them some.

I don't know anything about Congressman Rob Bishop's policies but I have to agree with this:

“As far as I can tell, the President’s energy agenda is simply to make it harder and more expensive for the American people to get by. Whether he likes it or not, the U.S. needs oil and since he won’t allow the U.S. to produce more domestically, we are forced to import it from other countries. Canadian crude oil refined by the U.S. is one of the safest and most affordable alternatives we have to meet our domestic oil demands, which currently outpace supply,” Congressman Rob Bishop

Stormy start to economic growth in 2012

2012-01-16T17:04:00.002-07:00

This year is the year to build and refine your portfolio. To make sound investments and prepare for 2013 when things get going again. Low mortgage rates and a buyer's market in Edmonton and Alberta set the stage for a perfect investment opportunity.

We are still focusing on multiplex buildings that cash flow. See what our partners are getting here.

"Experts forecast restricted economic growth in most of the world in 2012 due to political waffling in Europe and the U.S., but financial markets could pick up in the last half of the year.

As TD Economics puts it, the year will be more naughty than nice.

Consensus is that emerging markets will continue to be good places to invest in, some solid American companies have been beaten up and represent good opportunity, there is movement in Canada to "invest in the west," and the best sources of fixed income will be corporate bonds and preferred shares." Read More

The Year of the Dragon

2012-01-14T12:25:00.010-07:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

January 15th., 2012
Volume 11, Issue 8

Dear Friends and Partners,

Welcome back! So, how were the holidays - did you have a grand time? Are you excited about the year ahead? Of course there remain many question marks concerning the economy, pipelines, global-financial stability - but living pinned by fear, is not living at all. So many GREAT stories get drowned out when you listen to the news. You have to search for the bright ones.

I was driving through Nisku, an industrial area just outside of Edmonton. I saw 'help wanted' signs on the splotchy ice covered lawns of factories and brightly coloured signs touting 'good opportunity-apply inside' were sprinkled along the artery roads. Employers in Edmonton felt the labour crunch tightening six months back.

Last year the energy sector saw many large multi-billion dollar projects get the green light. The construction industry that builds the projects and material spinoffs, are already busy and anticipate 2012 to be the beginning of massive construction starts.

With BMO offering an insanely low 5 year fixed rate of 2.99%, it looks like 2013 is positioned to carry more main-stream optimism with a wider segment of the economy flourishing in Alberta and Western Canada. Of course nothing is guaranteed and any mix of local or international strife could derail a good thing, but over the next decade the growth will continue through the peaks and valleys.

When it comes to planning your year ahead (and the next 5) here are some critical questions to ask and a few links to help you measure along the way. The questions are courtesy of San Francisco based Career Coach Suzannah Scully's blog.

1. What are you most proud of in the last year?
2. If there were a newspaper headline describing this past year for you, what would it say?
3. What unfinished business do you want to resolve before the year end and when will you do it? (i.e. lingering relationships, apologies, goals yet to achieve)
4. When were you most excited about life in this past year? What were you doing? Who were you with?
5. Looking back, what would you have done differently in 2011?
6. What new dream for yourself did you achieve?
7. Where did you let fear hold you back from a goal you had?
8. What was boring to you this year that you hope to change for next year?

Now, get out there and make your dreams happen!

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South Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Two-Suiter in Capilano

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1959 built 2-plex with separate entrance to lower suite. 2 stylishly finished suites; 1192 sqft upper 3 bedroom unit with beautiful hardwood, plus a spacious 2 bedroom 850 sqft. suite down.

The upper suite has newer windows, faux fireplace, fresh paint and original hardwood. There is a common laundry room in basement too. The lower unit has new paint, bathroom and toilet. Lower suite walks out to a shared fenced yard.

There is a 2 car detached garage with automatic door and opener, bringing in additional revenue. 20 minutes to U.O.A., 15 mins to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Wayne Gretzky and on the bus routes.

These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient South Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's ravine area.

Produces $264.75 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $335K Total Investment: $77,300K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $42,810.67K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 55% or 11% per year

Poised for massive growth. These 2 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

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Alberta's Economy To Lead Nation: TD Report

By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald. January 10th 2012

Alberta's economy is forecast to lead the country this year and next year, according to a report by TD Economics.

The provincial economic update also sees employment growth in Alberta topping Canada for 2012 and 2013 as well.

The TD Economics report predicts Alberta will see real gross domestic product growth of 2.6 per cent this year and 2.9 per cent in 2013 compared with 1.7 per cent and 2.2 per cent respectively across the country. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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Alberta Rides Strong Job Creation Wave

Province's unemployment rate remains lowest in country

Alberta enjoyed a banner year for job creation in 2011, though new figures show employment changed little from November to December.

Data released by Statistics Canada Friday said the country added 18,000 jobs last month. Few of those came in Alberta, but the province tallied 77,500 new jobs for the calendar year of 2011. Of the past 15 years, more jobs were added only in 2006.

"There were job gains in just about every sector," said Darrell Winwood, public affairs officer with Alberta Human Services. "This was the second-best year for job gains since 1997." The main industries of growth, said Winwood, include construction, health care, social assistance, and both wholesale and retail trade. READ MORE HERE

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Real Estate Market Healthy, Agents Say

By Lewis Kelly, Edmonton Journal. January 5th 2012

Edmonton wrapped up a stable year in real estate in December, the Realtors Association of Edmonton said Wednesday.

"It is a relief to report on the stability and health of the local real estate market," said Chris Mooney, association president for 2011. "With prices and sales varying within a small range, there is a solid base going forward into the 2012 market."

Mooney mentioned the European debt crisis and a depressed housing market in the U.S. as major concerns, but emphasized that the energy-based economy of Alberta in general and Edmonton in particular keeps the local housing market buoyant. GRAB THIS STORY

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I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Difficulties come when you don't pay attention to life's whisper. Life always whispers to you first., if you ignore the whisper, sooner or later you'll get a scream." -Oprah Winfrey

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start home-study sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Peter Kinch's Mortgage Minute

2011-12-16T11:01:00.004-07:00

Opened my mail today to find Peter Kinch's Mortgage Minute newsletter in my inbox. It's always a great read and especially informative if you have mortgages to renew or are considering the best tactics for reducing your expenses and increasing cash flow on investment properties through intelligent financing.

Here are three links from his blog enjoy!

2012 Real Estate Market

Pros and Cons to purchasing American Real Estate and Part Two

New You Resolutions

2011-12-15T11:29:00.009-07:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

December 15th., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 7

Dear Friends and Partners,

Another year is upon us. I hope that you have enjoyed 12 months filled with growth, change and enough 'wins' to be shaking your head at how fast it was spent. It seems that as we prepare to enter 2012 we enter it with much global uncertainty, as has been the norm for the past few years.
Optimism will prevail and with a bit of hope, and levelheadedness, political and economic stability will come to the nations that need balance the most.

In Alberta we remain very well situated and are better insulated (but not immune) to the global ups and downs; this last recession reminded us just how fast an economy can slow down. The good news remains the same as it was; Edmonton's long-term investing forecast is solid, steady and on track. Investors who focus on cash-flow and employ a long-term outlook, ride the real estate cycles which can be 5 to 7 years or longer, will do well.

Alberta is entering into another period of growth beginning in 2013, so lining up well priced and well positioned assets now is key; you still have incredible rates to take advantage of and relatively decent banking terms for revenue property investors - smart investors are picking up value priced property now.

Danielle and I always take time out over New Year to map out our goals for the year ahead. We focus on family, health, wealth and person goals - if you don't do this already, try it. It's a powerful way to get clear and synchronize as a family what you intend accomplish in the months ahead. As always, we sincerely thank you for your help, support and partnership. May 2012 be your best year yet.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a New Year filled with success!

P.S. Be sure to take advantage of REIN's great Xmas savings on ALL re al estate products below. They make a great gifts too!

Please note: Glenn Simon Inc. will be closed for holidays from December 21st until January 9th. Newsletters will resume from January 15th 2012.

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North East Edmonton: Cash flowing Four-Plex In Killarny

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1959 side-by-side duplex converted to 4-Plex with separate entrance to all units. The main floor is massive with nearly 1025 sq ft of beautifully designed space, including 3 bedrooms, dining, kitchen and living room. There are two large nicely finished 2 bedroom suites downstairs. You'll find shared laundry on the lower floor and the main floors have their own laundry.

All suites are well maintained with the main floor having some nicer touches and the basements remaining simple, clean and functional. The yard is low maintenance, landscaped and fenced. There is a 1 car garage and parking for 4 cars. 25 minutes to U.O.A. and 15 minutes to Grant MacEwan, NAIT and Downtown. This property has good holding value and cash-flow.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient North East area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighbourhood featuring affordable homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing North East.

Produces $732 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $450K Total Investment: $112K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $64K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 58% or 11.5% per year + $732 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

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Economy Oversold

By Nick Henselmeier, The Star Phoenix December 6th 2011
Re: Sask. unemployment sees small hike (SP, Dec. 3). An interesting fact is hidden in the November unemployment numbers: Saskatchewan no longer has the lowest unemployment rate in Canada, with that distinction going to Alberta.

While Labour Minister Rob Norris brags about Saskatchewan adding 4,500 jobs year over year, this is in comparison to 98,400 added in Alberta. In fact, Saskatoon's total labour market declined by 1.6 per cent in the third quarter, year over year. GRAB THIS STORY

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BMO Economics: Energy Sector Will Keep Alberta Near Top of Growth Leaderboard in 2012
High oil prices strengthening energy sector and driving labour market - Real GDP growth of 3.3 per cent in 2011; 2.8 per cent in 2012 (Canada's at 2.3 per cent in 2011; 2.0 per cent in 2012)

MARKETWIRE, CALGARY, ALBERTA, Dec 07, 2011

Alberta's economy is significantly outperforming the national average in 2011, and should remain near the top of the growth leaderboard next year, according to the Provincial Monitor report released today by BMO Economics.Despite the sovereign debt crisis in Europe, cooling growth in China and expected sluggish growth in the U.S., West Texas Intermediate crude oil prices remain firm near $100 per barrel.

"Despite some temporary disruptions earlier this year due to wildfires, oil production was up a solid 7.8 per cent year-over-year through August, with even more robust 10.8 per cent year-over-year growth in crude bitumen production," noted Mr. Kavcic. "Longer term, Alberta is expecting raw bitumen production to rise 14 per cent per year in the next two years, as conventional crude output remains about flat, while natural gas production declines." GRAB THIS STORY

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Ewart: Is It To Soon To Cheer Good News?
By Stephan Ewart, Calgary Herald. December 9th, 2011

The news the federal government has approved a 100,000-barrel-a-day oil sands mine in the midst of a key UN climate change conference essentially confirms that Ottawa is not about to bow to international pressure that would potentially harm the economy.

Canada has been singled out repeatedly during the United Nations conference in South Africa for a perceived lack of commitment to reducing the country's fast-rising greenhouse gas emissions.

In the face of the global criticism, Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver announced Thursday the approval of the $9.5-billion oil sands project. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbours, and let each new year find you a better man." -Benjamin Franklin

Warm Regards,
Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

The Oilsands made me do it.

2011-12-14T11:37:00.004-07:00

I don't care how you feel about the oil sands environmentally you have to draw the line when they are blamed for the poverty cycle. The only thing that causes a cycle of poverty is
a lack of skills be they managing money or the ability to get a job.

This article is blaming the oil sands for making people do drugs, staying poor and not getting proper housing. Why is it the oil sands and not this man's choice? He's thirty! Surely he is accountable for his choices?

The writer claims lump sums of money are more dangerous than salary spread out. I would say the most dangerous is no salary, no job. Blame is a sad but consistent part of our society today. Granted it's the writer's opinion and she is entitled to that.

Read article if you must.

The Best News!

2011-12-02T07:28:00.005-07:00

Suite Success

2011-11-25T10:22:00.007-07:00

It's been 5 months from start to finish but yesterday our Cornerstone Grant funding came in the mail. We started building the secondary suite in July and final approval came around November 15, 2011, seven days later we got our cheque. Here, here and here are the steps we took through the whole grant process.

The biggest delays were permits the longest one took about 6 weeks, our contractor (the guy seriously lost the plot) and finally fireproofing the furnace room ceiling with drywall. 95% of the people we spoke to said it couldn't be done but it was. It took 3 inspections by the city but finally we got it right. The first shot is with gypsum board which is not to code the second two we have drywall and some fireproof duct tape throughout the ceiling.

After our whoops of joy we thought lets do it again. The first attempt was a bit rough going but once you've done the program and been approved it's easier to get your reno team in place and anticipate delays.

This and That

2011-11-21T15:13:00.001-07:00

"Canada must reduce its dependence on the United States and look to Asia's rising fortunes, Premier Alison Redford told an Toronto audience during an Economic Club of Canada keynote speech on Wednesday.
Redford said her government remains committed to the delayed Keystone XL pipeline to Texas but the province needs more customers for its oilsands products.

"Our success is dependent on exports and the prosperity they bring, but U.S. demand is declining," the premier said during her first visit to Toronto as premier.

"Asia's star is rising and it will dominate the 21st Century. We can guarantee national prosperity for a long time to come by supplying them with the energy that they need."

Premier Redford hits the nail on the head when she starts the conversation of creating an energy supply chain to Asia. If Keystone isn't ready, lets diversify. The more global partners, the merrier. Read More Here

"A CIBC report suggests that over the next two decades, energy infrastructure construction will add a million jobs to the Canadian economy – enough to pull it away from recessionary risk without government intervention. At least part of that depends on Canada processing its oil sands crude."

As the battle over the Keystone XL pipeline threatens to upset exports from Canada’s oil sands to the United States, an old dream to make Alberta an oil-processing powerhouse is back on the table.

Alberta’s energy industry has long counted on the planned pipeline to carry much of the province’s ever-increasing volume of oil sands output to refineries on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Go to article

Check out our media page

2011-11-16T11:59:00.004-07:00

We've been really busy over the last few months from contributions to Real Estate How To books to magazines in Canada, Japan and the UK.

I've finally put up some of the articles, links and pdfs on our media page. Take a look some are interesting and hopefully you can find at least one golden nugget of information among them.

Optimism Like Water

2011-11-15T14:02:00.004-07:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

November 15th., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 5

Dear Friends and Partners,

We're up again, no we're down again. Like a ball in the air, it has been tough to know exactly where it'll land - that has been our economy and politics of late. I suppose in a sense that is consistent. If you've been trying to figure out what Greece, Italy, France, Iran and the U.S.A. are going to do - don't. I have attached a quote at the bottom of this newsletter that offers sage advice for these uncertain times. Another good saying to practice now is "Hope for the best and plan for the worst". The Keystone pipeline is a good example, if we're not going to build it now; we can build it later. If not to the U.S.A., then to China. Use today to practice optimism like water; flow around your obstacles.

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West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Three-Plex In Inglewood

Turbo charge your portfolio. Legal upgraded 1960 built 3-plex with separate entrance to all units. The main floor is massive with nearly 1900 sqft of beautifully designed space, including 3 bedrooms, dining, kitchen and living room. There are 2 large 1 bedroom self contained suites downstairs. You'll find coin operated laundry on the lower floor and main floor has its own laundry. Both lower suites have their own furnace and are legally built to city code. All suites are well maintained with the main floor having some luxury touches and the basements remaining simple, nice and functional. Outside is professionally landscaped, fenced and complete with parking for 2 cars plus a double detached garage. 20 minutes to U.O.A. and 10 minutes to Grant MacEwan, NAIT and Downtown. This property has good holding value and cash-flow.
Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient West Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighbourhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $400.64 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $449K Total Investment: $103,498K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $54,039.65K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 52% or 10% per year + $400.64 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 3 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

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Lamphier: Economic Future Lies With Booming Asia

By Gary Lamphier, Edmonton Journal, November 7th 2011

EDMONTON - It’s all about Asia now. As is increasingly obvious, that’s where Canada’s economic future lies.
If you don’t get that, you can’t appreciate what we’ll need to do to sustain our comfy Canadian living standards or secure our kids’ economic futures in the years ahead.

The world has changed. When some 20 million Americans remain jobless two years into a recovery, and crisis-ridden Europe is forced to beg China for bailout money, you know it’s different this time.

Asia’s soaring economic clout is reflected in the changing makeup of the world’s 250 largest energy firms, a list that’s compiled each year by Platts, a New York-based commodity research firm. GRAB THIS STORY

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Canada Defiant After U.S. Oil Pipeline Rebuff

By David Ljunggern, Reuters. Thursday November 10th, 2011

OTTAWA/CALGARY, Nov 10 (Reuters) - Canada will keep promoting crude from the tar sands of northern Alberta as a secure source of energy despite a U.S. decision to delay approval of a pipeline to carry the oil from Alberta to Texas, officials said on Thursday.
The Canadian government and the oil industry have limited options, however, as another controversial proposal to build a pipeline to export tar sands crude to Asian markets is just at the beginning of a lengthy review process.

The U.S. move to put off a decision on TransCanada Corp's proposed $7 billion Keystone XL pipeline for 18 months is a significant blow for Ottawa, which has strongly backed the project. READ MORE HERE.

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Gains In Edmonton Home Prices No.2 In Country Over Last Decade
Average goes from $124,203 to $328,803 - Still $10,000 off national pace

By Dave Cooper, Edmonton Journal, November 8th 2011
A red-hot economy fuelled unprecedented price appreciation in Edmonton over the last decade, making the city Canada's secondstrongest-performing market - up 165 per cent since 2000, says a report release Monday by Re/Max.

Across Canada, the report says the average value of housing doubled to $339,030 in 2010 from $163,951 a decade earlier.

In Edmonton, the average price of a home climbed from $124,203 in 2000 to $328,803 in 2010, peaking in 2007 at $338,636. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Adversity causes some men to break; others to break records." - William Arthur Ward

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start home-study sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

High net worth people are different

2011-11-14T12:32:00.002-07:00

I scanned this article today and initially I thought it was obvious. However, if you don't know how to manage your money then having and maintaining a high net worth will be hard. That's why you see lots of celebrities broke after years of making millions and millions of dollars.

"Calgary will and trust lawyer Coady Cormier has spent the past 13 years advising people who are worth more than $1 million on how to best protect that money. Along the way, he has noticed some trends in how that money is managed and the attitudes of the wealthy. Some of the observations are what one might expect."

Here they are:
- frugality
- good at controlling debt
- fewer divorces
- tolerance within couples ie to workaholics
- tendency to not be conspicuous consumers
- review portfolios, wills and insurance every 3 years
- deeper responsibility with financial planning

It's a great article read more HERE

First Snow in Edmonton

2011-11-14T12:17:00.003-07:00

We had the first snow of the winter season over the weekend. It was beautiful to awaken to the fresh dusting that happened quietly while we slept.

The first snow is a great reminder that we'll be seeing this for the next 6 months and the real estate market is going to s-l-o-w down. Less tenants moving, although I did a move on New Year's Eve last year, less buyers looking. Sellers are out there but the prices are reflected in the season.

I've got one beautiful townhouse left to rent for December 1st and plan to have a baby this weekend. Then hope to batten my hatches for the weather, focus on our fine tuning our goals for 2012 and work on streamlining our portfolio.

November 11 Veterans and Babies

2011-11-11T11:46:00.007-07:00

I never clued in that Remembrance/ Veterans Day was celebrated in the US on the same day we celebrate in Canada. Fallen war heroes are honoured in many countries today Take a look HERE

Another quick Google in my free time - Babies born on November 11, 2011 at 11:11:11. I was hoping to get this delivery date but my little guy isn't complying. Oh well, 11/22/11 is an auspicious date too.

And to round it off things you didn't know about 11/11/11.

Great way to sell a property!

2011-11-11T11:35:00.002-07:00

I found this video/ad for an investment property in one of the areas we like to buy in. It's simple and effective.

Take a look HERE

Forbes ranks Canada #1 Best Country for Business

2011-11-02T14:25:00.002-06:00

As an affluent, high-tech industrial society in the trillion-dollar class, Canada resembles the US in its market-oriented economic system, pattern of production, and affluent living standards. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. The 1989 US-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) (which includes Mexico) touched off a dramatic increase in trade and economic integration with the US, its principal trading partner.

Canada enjoys a substantial trade surplus with the US, which absorbs about three-fourths of Canadian exports each year. Canada is the US's largest foreign supplier of energy, including oil, gas, uranium, and electric power. Given its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, Canada enjoyed solid economic growth from 1993 through 2007.

Buffeted by the global economic crisis, the economy dropped into a sharp recession in the final months of 2008, and Ottawa posted its first fiscal deficit in 2009 after 12 years of surplus. Canada's major banks, however, emerged from the financial crisis of 2008-09 among the strongest in the world, owing to the financial sector's tradition of conservative lending practices and strong capitalization. During 2010, Canada's economy grew only 3%, due to decreased global demand and a highly valued Canadian dollar. Read More Here

Start With Why

2011-11-01T15:12:00.010-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

November 1st., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 4

Dear Friends and Partners,

I listened to the audio book 'Start With Why' by Simon Sinek last week. It was pretty good. I didn't find it new or groundbreaking, but it was a good refresher. The premise of Simon's book is that all great leaders and companies have a big, clear WHY of what they are doing. This 'Why' attracts other people that identify with it. For example, here at Glenn Simon Inc. we have a catch phrase that reads "Making you successful, one property at a time". Good, clear catchy - if not super original. But the 'why' behind the late hours, long days, relentless management and due diligence resonates more like this… "

Why we created GSI and decided to work with partners is because we like to play with our kids, share a sunny afternoon with our family, travel by tuk-tuk to Denpasar with friends, eat delicious foods, create more time (to do as we like), take pictures, enjoy art, nature, the sky, adventure, grow and regrow our money, write and contribute, sponsor children, give a family a chance to rent or buy a home that they otherwise didn't have, live out loud, connect with cool, like minded, positive people - who are also doing the same, take initiative, take control and nimbly steer our own ship in the direction that resonates with our beliefs." If that Why sounds unstructured, there is a concrete set of business goals that we continually use to measure and match it.

The 'How' is by investing and managing specific pieces of real estate, very carefully. The 'What' we offer is the ability for other folks who find resonance in what we do and whom have their own unique 'Why" get on-board and leverage their time and their money to reach their 'Why'. So, what is your 'Why' and are you living it or on the path to reaching it?

===============

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Three-Plex In Inglewood

Turbo charge your portfolio. Legal upgraded 1960 built 3-plex with separate entrance to all units. The main floor is massive with nearly 1900 sqft of beautifully designed space, including 3 bedrooms, dining, kitchen and living room. There are 2 large 1 bedroom self contained suites downstairs. You'll find coin operated laundry on the lower floor and main floor has its own laundry. Both lower suites have their own furnace and are legally built to city code. All suites are well maintained with the main floor having some luxury touches and the basements remaining simple, nice and functional. Outside is professionally landscaped, fenced and complete with parking for 2 cars plus a double detached garage. 20 minutes to U.O.A. and 10 minutes to Grant MacEwan, NAIT and Downtown. This property has good holding value and cash-flow.
Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient West Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighbourhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $ positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $449K Total Investment: $103,498K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $54,039.65K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 52% or 10% per year + $400.64 Cash Flow Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 3 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============
Ottawa Announces Details Of $1B Program to Improve Army Light Armoured Vehicles

By The Canadian Press, October 21st, 2011
EDMONTON - A big part of the Canadian army's fleet of light armoured vehicles is getting a billion-dollar makeover to make them tougher, safer and more mobile.

Public Works Minister Rona Ambrose announced details Friday of the plan to upgrade 550 LAV IIIs so they can better withstand deadly roadside bombs and mines.

Ambrose said the $1.06 billion contract awarded to General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada will protect jobs at plants in Edmonton and London, Ont., and with the company's suppliers across the country.

"They will maintain 2,400 jobs across the country. These are very high-value, high-skilled jobs," Ambrose said while standing beside one of the green, 17-tonne vehicles.

"But most importantly, this upgraded equipment will make sure our men and women in uniform are safer on the battlefield." FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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Harper Sees Keystone Pipeline Prevailing with Jobs Over Nebraska

By Theophilos Argitis and Bradley Olson, Bloomberg, October 23rd 2011.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper says U.S. approval of Keystone XL, a proposed 1,661-mile pipeline from Alberta to Texas, is a “no brainer” because demand for oil and jobs will overwhelm opposition from Nebraska lawmakers.
“The need for energy in the U.S. is enormous, the alternatives for the U.S. are not good, on every level,” Harper, 52, said in a Bloomberg Television interview. Harper said he’s “confident” the pipeline will be built.

The promise of jobs will outweigh protests over the $7 billion pipeline, the prime minster said in a Sept. 21 interview. At a time when almost one in 10 Americans is unemployed, TransCanada Corp. (TRP) expects to create 20,000 jobs to build the pipeline, Chief Executive Officer Russell Girling told reporters on Oct. 7. Work for suppliers and indirect staff related to Keystone would add 118,000 jobs, according to Michigan Representative Fred Upton, who heads the House Energy and Commerce Committee. READ MORE HERE

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Surviving and Thriving in a Sustainable Economy
Chris Turner tells stories of cities adopting new power generating methods

By Sheila Pratt, Edmonton Journal, October 22nd 2011

For oil-soaked Albertans, there are some eye-popping moments in Chris Turner's new book, The Leap, a fascinating tour of countries and places already making the transition to a renewable, low-carbon economy.Start with Turner's visit with Harald Muller and Barbara Braun, middle-class urban homeowners in Freiburg, Germany.

Their 10-yearold townhouse operates like a small power generator thanks to a bank of solar panels on the south slope of the roof. That solar energy provides more power than the family needs, so they put it back on the grid and make money on the sale - about $5,000, in fact. It didn't take long to pay off solar panels - he checked their power bills - and it made Turner wonder: Why can't we do that here? GRAB THIS STORY

================
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"When I chased after money, I never had enough. When I got my life on purpose and focused giving of myself and everything that arrived into my life, then I was prosperous." - Abraham/Hicks

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start home-study sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Alberta's Engine Starting To Purr

2011-10-18T09:38:00.004-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

October 15th., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 3

Dear Friends and Partners,

It's The Edmonton REIN ACRE event this weekend and it looks like its going to be a great one! I'll be attending a long with 400+ eager investors, both neophytes and veterans alike. There will be the usual solid line up of speakers and plenty of hands on scenarios to put your brain through.

The reason why I think this event will be a particularly good one, is the amount of calls and emails I got. Generally before an Edmonton based event I'll get a few emails and a couple of calls, but for this one the phone was ringing off the hook.

Most folks are newer investors looking to for advice on how to get started, some seasoned investors looking at a less demanding way to invest; JVP prospects and of course, associates and friends looking for a catch up session and chinwag. All are welcome. Hope to see you there too!

South Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Four-Plex In King Edward Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Legal upgraded 1968 built 4-plex with separate entrance to all units. The three 3 bedroom suites are functionally built, large and open with newer appliances. The fourth 2 bedroom suite has been upgraded with newer kitchen and some laminate, fresh paint and original hardwood. There is a common paid laundry room in basement. The lower units have new paint. There is a small, grassy, fenced yard before the 10 parking stall pad. 15 minutes to U.O.A. and Grey Nuns. 20 minutes to Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Property is located on main road with fast access to Sherwood Park Freeway and on the bus routes. This property has good holding value and cash-flow. It requires some simple cleanup and modernizing (accounted for in purchase) to really make it shine.
Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $657 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $496K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $65K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 52% or 10% per year + $657 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

Update: Alberta's Jobless Rate Dips 5.4% In September
Province continues to outpace rest of Canada in employment gains with fifth consecutive monthly increase

By Bill Mah, Edmonton Journal, October 7th 2011

EDMONTON - Alberta’s labour market continued to shine in September, gaining 8,600 jobs from August.

The provincial unemployment rate dipped 0.2 percentage points from August to 5.4 per cent, compared with 6.2 per cent in the same month last year.

The drop came even as the pool of people available or looking for work was up 3,500 for the month, according to Statistics Canada figures released Friday. GRAB THIS STORY

===============

Pipeline, Oilsands and Hydro Projects Drive Growth
Look to energy and infrastructure to create jobs: CIBC Economists

By Jeff Lewis, Alberta Oil, September 29th, 2011

Power plant, pipeline and oil sands expansion projects will drive economic growth in Canada as governments attempt to rein in debt and export markets turn sour, two economists at CIBC World Markets say. Investments in power generation, transmission and distribution, plus pipeline and oil sands expansions could create one million jobs between 2010 and 2030, according to a paper released this week by Benjamin Tal and Avery Shenfeld, CIBC deputy chief economist and chief economist, respectively. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============

Financial Malaise A Crisis of Confidence Multiplied By Three

By Ray Turchansky, Edmonton Journal, October 7th 2011.

TD Bank chief economist Craig Alexander began his recent talk to the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce with a warning.

"This presentation includes graphic charts and illustrations of financial risk, is pessimistic on the outlook, and may not be suitable for all audiences."

Alexander says we're having a crisis of confidence in three areas - the ability of European governments to deal with fiscal and financial problems; the ability of the United States to deal with its deficits; and the sustainability of the global economic recovery, especially that of the U.S.

He says the first crisis, in Europe, began with a flawed launch of the euro, which was done with a common currency, common central bank and common monetary policy, but without a common treasury with a fiscal arrangement of mandatory discipline for the 17 countries. RED MORE HERE

================

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Formal education will make you a living; self education will make you a fortune." - Jim Rohn

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Finally some sense

2011-10-14T16:23:00.003-06:00

I can never understand why anyone would want oil from the Middle East when safe, friendly Canada has billions of barrels of it. The green argument for me is easily overpowered by the terrorist/ethical argument. With companies like Cenovus and others leading the way in green technology what will happen when the oil sands improve their impact and still produce enough oil to meet North American needs with a bit left over? Anyway Canada and Alberta are doing very well economically now if only we could settle Europe.

Three excellent articles - the comments are always interesting.

Keystone Project would create jobs - boost economy - "While oil and gas are not the only ingredients required for America's energy independence and security, they will be vital to our nation's economic health for decades to come. Today, 60 percent of America's total energy needs depend on oil and natural gas, and more than 95 percent of the energy required to power America's transportation industry comes from oil and gas."

Greens want terror oil in your gas tank - "Although opponents argue the pipeline is inherently dangerous because of potential harm to farms, wildlife and water aquifers as it cuts across Montana, the Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas, in truth, the anti-XL campaign is aimed against expansion of the Alberta oil sands. Environmentalists claim production in the oil sands is contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, destroying the arboreal forests and killing migratory birds. On a recent visit, I saw no evidence of these claims. Indeed, relative to both the geographic and carbon footprints of most onshore and offshore oil production, the Alberta oil sands compare quite favorably."

Former Tory minister touts megaprojects to create jobs, boost economy - "If we are smart about this, we can build out our country, create jobs and still maintain one of the lowest debt-to-GDP ratios in the world. We don't need short-term stimulus spending, we need support for economic infrastructure that creates wealth," former environment minister Jim Prentice

Upcoming REIN Workshops - Learn HOW to Invest!

2011-10-07T12:24:00.001-06:00

October 2011 Alberta REIN™ Workshops

Key Meeting Topics:
The Secrets of the Real Estate Cycle with Greg Head (Calgary Only)

The 7 Most Important Accounting Questions Answered (Edmonton Only)

Landlording Tips for Multi-Family Investing (Calgary Only)

Hot Calgary Neighborhoods with Veteran Investor & Realtor Randy Bett (Calgary Only)

'Tales From the Trenches' with Legal Eagle Barry McGuire (Calgary Only)

An In-Depth Look Of the Oil Sands with Don Thompson, Past President of the Oil Sand Development Group (Edmonton Only)

The Latest Banking News with Peter Kinch

And Much More!

For more details on the Alberta Workshops:
Calgary - Click Here
Edmonton - Click Here

Event Info:

Calgary Workshop
Date: Wednesday October 12th 2011
Location: Red & White Club - 1833 Crowchild Tr. NW
Time: 6:30pm - 10:30pm

Edmonton Workshop
*** (NOTE the different location for this month) ***
Date: Friday October 14th 2011
***Location: Mayfield Inn - 16615 109 Ave***
Time: 6:30pm - 10:30pm

Edmonton ACRE
Date: Saturday October 15th & Sunday October 16th
Location: Mayfield Inn - 16615 109 Ave
Time: 8:30am - 7:00pm
Register for ACRE™ - Click Here

Things That Keep You Up At Night

2011-10-01T19:08:00.007-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

October 1st., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 2

Dear Friends and Partners,

"You know those nights when you really NEED a good sleep but your mind is too busy entertaining a nonstop tap dance of worry? I had one of those last night." said my friend Patrice. She looked it too. Big, crate paper creases pocketed her empty, bloodshot eyes. When she attempted to smile, the sides of her mouth mockingly retained the smile shape like a failed claymation doll made by a psychopathic child. I asked what kept my friend up and she said "Well, I can tell you what it wasn't.

It wasn't the new health development project that I'm trying to win a minority bid on. It wasn't my daughter's dental work to remove an impacted tooth and it wasn't that I have to decide between two excellent candidates for a senior position. It was none of that. What really kept me up all night was that I tailgated a driver who cut me off for two blocks, before blasting him with my horn and giving him the finger while passing. He looked backed at me with bewildered eyes as he tried to navigate the road ahead, clearly overwhelmed and frozen in fear. He looked about 87 in that really old way that conjures up a paradox of looking like a child at the same time of being withered and old."

Patrice said she felt like a real b____. The old man may well have been driving recklessly, should possibly have retired from the wheel years ago… but Patrice still felt her actions were wrong. What she felt was the taste of a stinging potent cocktail of guilt and shame served cold with a twist of remorse. We talked more about about worry and what keeps us up at night. Many times it IS the serious matters in life and other times it is the ones we see as trivial. The 'trivial' can often reveal more about ourselves than we think, especially when they have moral implications. For example, you feel right or justified in the decision you made, but somehow compromised one of your values during the delivery.

There are two books that Patrice and I discussed that help put worry in place. One is Dr. De Martini's book 'Count Your Blessings' and the other, Dale Carnegie's 'Stop Worrying and Start Living'. One habit that I've adopted is to make is my 'To do' list before bed for the next day so I can put a lid on the little worries that try to escape me. That way I can rest, knowing that I have a list to tackle the next day. Another help is to practice weighing serious decisions against your set of values. Somethings will be so obvious that your gut instantly knows.

Other decisions may be cloudy and shift through minutia - it's those ones that I take the time to reflect on and see if they align with my higher values. Of course you can't put all worries to bed, but hopefully you can give then some nap time.

===============
South Central Edmonton: Cashflowing 4-plex in King Edward Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Legal upgraded 1968 built 4-plex with separate entrance to all units. The three 3 bedroom suites are functionally built, large and open with newer appliances. The fourth 2 bedroom suite has been upgraded with newer kitchen and some laminate, fresh paint and original hardwood.

There is a common paid laundry room in basement. The lower units have new paint. There is a small, grassy, fenced yard before the 10 parking stall pad. 15 minutes to U.O.A. and Grey Nuns. 20 minutes to Grant MacEwan and Downtown.

Property is located on main road with fast access to Sherwood Park Freeway and on the bus routes. This property has good holding value and cash-flow. It requires some simple cleanup and modernizing (accounted for in purchase) to really make it shine.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $657 per month positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $496K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $65K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 52% or 10% per year + $657 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month
Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

Leveraging Our Greatest Asset

By Gary Lamphier, Edmonton Journal, September 17th 2011

When it comes to commerce, Edmonton is no slouch. This is a city that knows how to make a buck.
As my Journal colleagues have chronicled in this week's Edmonton Inc. series, the city's eclectic business activities contribute well over $150 million in dividends and income to city coffers every year. From power generation and water treatment to waste recycling, real estate, digging tunnels or investing, the city is a key player in the regional economy and beyond. GRAB THIS STORY

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Simons: Americans Could Ease Alberta labour Shortage

By Paula Simons, Calgary Herald, September 22nd, 2011

The economic news south of the border is grim. While Alberta has an unemployment rate of roughly five per cent, the U.S. unemployment rate is a little over nine per cent.

That’s only part of the story. California had an August unemployment rate of 12.1 per cent. In Nevada, it’s 13.4 per cent. Florida, Georgia, Rhode Island, Michigan, North and South Carolina — all have double-digit unemployment. Here, our economic issues are the opposite. Some 30 per cent of Albertans work in occupational categories that are already facing labour shortages. We’re shy of everything from long-haul truckers to nurses. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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Rental Shortage Drives Up Shelter Use In Calgary

By Carla Ho, Calgary Herald, September 28th 2011

Calgarians make up the majority of the province’s emergency shelter users due to a lack of rental accommodations in the city, according to a new study by the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy.

“A boom in Calgary, relative to elsewhere, attracts more people to move to Calgary,” said Ron Kneebone, a professor of economics and one of the authors of the study. “What they find when they get here is, there is simply not a large supply of rental accommodations, so they end up homeless and they end up in shelters.” READ MORE HERE

===============
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"If I had my life to live over, I'd perhaps have more actual troubles but I'd have fewer imaginary ones." - Don Herold

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Alberta Population Pops

2011-09-29T15:02:00.003-06:00

People are coming to Alberta. If you want a low salary, high unemployment and higher housing costs then you should stay away. As it is Alberta leads with highest salaries, employment and lowest housing costs.

Just today I showed a place to a family from Cape Breton -a father and 3 grown children all moved out here for work. I placed Chinese international students last month into a suite and a guy from Ontario who was transferred by work took a townhouse.

I'm seeing license plates from all provinces out here. It's really obvious that Alberta is a mecca for young skilled labour and those seeking a better quality of life.

The Keystone X-L Pipe Conundrum

2011-09-24T08:32:00.005-06:00

Good? Bad? What is your opinion of it? A North to South (Canada to USA route) and a West To East (Across AB and BC to Asia) will definitely improve the size of market and increase production.

Aside from potential environmental impact, which as always needs to be carefully weighed and protected, there is the issue that Peter Lougheed raises about jobs going South. While I can empathize with what he is saying, I wonder if Alberta has the manpower or can import enough well-priced labour to refine its own oil. Last time I checked we are often on the tipping point of a labour shortage.

Is there that much more benefit to refining once the refinery has been built? Remember we do have one new refinery being built now. It looks like a funnel south is a more viable option. Any ideas to add?

Edmonton Hazeldean/Ritchie Cell Phone Tower

2011-09-23T11:17:00.004-06:00

If you've ever been to the Mill Creek Ravine you'll know what a beautiful part of Edmonton it is. Ski, hiking, biking and running trails spread over the South Eastern part of Edmonton. The ravine itself is surrounded by tree-lined streets populated by 50's bungalows, schools and modern in-fills. All in all a very desirable area of Edmonton.

Sadly, these areas are being considered for a 6-storey cell tower, right next to a elementary school and a seniors home. The biggest irony there is an perfectly suited industrial area less than 10 blocks away.

We've got some rentals in the area and really, really don't want the cell phone tower. I understand the need for these towers but they should be in industrial areas - absolutely not next to schools in residential areas.

These communities aren't taking it laying down though:

"The proposed 25-metre cell phone tower is an eyesore and should be scrapped, say Hazeldean community members.

"You cannot tell me that a tower is going to be beautiful," said Kisa Mortenson who lives across the street from the site at 96th Street and 71st Avenue. "It's going to be way taller than anything else in the community.

"My children deserve better and so do I," she said.

About 120 people attended a meeting hosted by Rogers Communications and the city at the Hazeldean Community Hall Tuesday night, almost all upset with the proposal.

The tower will be located at the west side of the parking lot of the Good Samaritan Dr. Gerald Zetter Care Centre.

"It's at our cost to have this eyesore in this neighbourhood — to have our property values go down," said Shawn Roder. "You're going to recoup your money by telling people you have better coverage in this area."

The project is not a done deal, said Rogers spokesperson Marina Guy.

"We can decide to maybe change the location if that's possible," she said. "Or put up several smaller cell towers to meet the need."

Rogers has extended the deadline for feedback on the tower.

Last year, residents of the Westmount community successfully fought a cell phone tower proposed near the shopping mall.

Final approval for all cell phone towers is up to Industry Canada."

Watch the CBC coverage here - then go call/contact these people to NO to the Tower!

The ROGERS contact info is as follows:

Carol Robinson - Municipal Relations Specialist
carol.robinson@rci.rogers.com
Tel: 403-730-2627
Rogers Communications
#700, 500-4 Ave SW
Calgary, AB
T2P 2V6

Management at Rogers:

Nadir Mohamed
President and Chief Executive Officer
Rogers Communications Inc.
333 Bloor Street East
Toronto, Ontario
M4W 1G9

Contacts and emails are:

Kerry Diotte, Ward 11 City Councillor Kerry.Diotte@edmonton.ca
Jack Keaschuk, Development Planner, City of Edmonton Jack.Keaschuk@edmonton.ca
Mr. Badruddin Allidina, Spectrum Manager, Industry Canada Badruddin.allidina@ic.gc.ca
Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry Minister.industry@ic.gc.ca
Cathy Raftis, Director of City Wide Planning, Cathy.Raftis@edmonton.ca
Hon. Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Health and Wellness, edmonton.millcreek@assembly.ab.ca

$15 Billion into Alberta from China

2011-09-19T11:14:00.003-06:00

This
"Since the end of 2009, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) all have made substantial investments in the Canadian energy sector with a particular focus on the Alberta oil sands development. The China Investment Corporation - a $300 billion sovereign wealth fund - opened its first overseas office in Canada early this year and chose Canada for its only energy sector equity investment..."

And This

"These fast-paced investment activities have occurred against the backdrop of a sustained high energy demand forecast from China in the coming years and sluggish prospects for economic recovery in the United States."

Bode well for Alberta.

China isn't the only foreign investor into Alberta but their economic growth and the first $15 Billion is certainly a great start. Read More Here

To read Alberta's economic snapshot for the week of September 17, 2011 GO HERE

Risk and Rewards for Investors

2011-09-16T14:55:00.002-06:00

"Some people see investors as reckless risk-takers, but the one-time lead Dragon in the Den, W. Brett Wilson, has a different impression. Shane Buckingham explains

Risk prevents many ordinary people from acting. Consumed with fear, they dwell only on the potential for failure instead of the potential returns a solid, albeit chancy, investment could produce.

Wilson, who made the bulk of his wealth in the oil and natural gas industry, started investing in real estate about 10 years ago in order to diversify his assets. But unlike his other ventures, his real estate investments aren't too risky. "I see a lot of people trade real estate, but I purchase properties on a buy-and-hold basis. I just like to put it away, so I don't have to spend a lot of time thinking about it. That's partly because I have partners that worry about, but, more importantly, it's because I believe in a long-term hold strategy." Read More

I've watched about 8 episodes of Dragon's Den and I love it. Sometimes I cringe at the pitches that some folks make or worse yet the wrath of some Dragons… Its entertaining and hopefully inspirational. Brett Wilson's new program sounds like it will follow a bit deeper the real 'risk and reward' that you face when you get in the game. Looking forward to this!

Taking time to sharpen the saw

2011-09-15T17:59:00.007-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

September 15th., 2011
Volume 11, Issue 1

Dear Friends and Partners,

How did you spend your summer? Danielle, Ronan and I took a welcomed break and traveled through the Willm ore Wilderness Pa rk in northwestern Alberta. If you haven't been there, it is an awesome 1000 sq. mile section of rugged, wild land north of Jasper Park. We saw black bears, walked in pristine mountain valleys and dipped our toes into the chilly sulfur streams.

The days were hot and long. When we got back to the city we continued on with our home renovations (as well as the Cornerstone suite that we're doing) and gorged on the seemingly endless plump raspberries that our backyard bushes produce. As much as I love my work, I love to take time away and reflect upon it. I shared several balmy summer evening meals outside with a talented artist friend of ours. We also enjoyed a splendid visit with our close Japanese friends Mariko and Koji who flew all the way here to see us.

The change of location and spirited conversation helped me slow down and recharge the batteries. Returning from vacation the first thing I did was to sit down at my desk and write a top Ten Task list. I already had one before I went on holiday, but I was curious to see what my subconscious mind would deem the most important tasks. It was fascinating to see that the tasks remained the same but the order changed. The more creative tasks took priority and when I looked deeper at them, I could see that they held the greater value.

I hope that you came away from your 'holiday' with renewed insight and make a few breaks during your day to reflect and connect to what is important to you.

===============

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing T hree-Plex In Westmount

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1948 built 3-plex with separate entrance to all units. 3 stylishly finished suites; One 2 bedroom unit on main, plus one upgraded 650 sqft. 2 bedroom suites down and a very cool 2 bedroom suite on the top floor. The upper suites have laminate, fresh paint and original hardwood. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower unit has new paint, brand new tub and toilet as well. Lower suite walks out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage with brand new door and opener bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $440 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $384K Total Investment: $115K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $56K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 49% or 10% per year + $440 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 3 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============
Economic Ship Will Stay The Course
Government Focused On Debt Reduction, Financial Minister Says

By Gordon Isfeld and Keith Bonnel Postmedia News, August 20th, 2011

Canada's top financial leaders acknowledged Friday the country's economy is slowing but said they are ready to act if our major trading partners sink back into recession.
Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, appearing at a special parliamentary committee along with Canada's central banker, reiterated his call to "stay the course" and continue to work toward balancing the budget by 2014-15 as the best way to buffer Canada against the impact of a possible global downturn. GRAB THIS STORY

===============
Alberta's Theme Song - Take This Job and Love It

By Lorne Gunter, Calgary Herald, September 8th, 2011

Albertans are the workin'est people in Canada, by a fairly wide margin. And despite our rapidly increasing population (and thus our rapidly expanding workforce) we maintain the highest employment levels in the country and one of the lowest unemployment rates.
In general, this is true of all three Prairie provinces. Some of the old pioneering spirit of self-reliance still seems intact in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, too, along with a healthy dose of Protestant work ethic. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============

Opening Doors For Older Workers

Medicine Hat News Opinion, Thursday September 1st, 2011

If Alberta's economy grows according to forecast, the province could be facing a shortage of about 77,000 workers in the labour force by 2019.

That means older workers are going to be an increasingly valuable resource in the coming years. Some of them might not feel valuable if they've been victims of downsizing in the past few years as businesses struggled with economic difficulties. Fortunately, a new program launched in Lethbridge this summer is helping mature workers discover new paths back into the workforce. READ MORE HERE

===============

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Diligence is the mother of good fortune." - Benjamin Disraeli
Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Hanging art- or not.

2011-09-15T11:30:00.004-06:00

My apologies to Gretchen and her beautiful 'Popping Poppies' painting that took me soooo long to finally hang. But, man was it worth the wait. As we're still in the middle of renos we don't have much other than Gretchen's piece, Chris Hudson's fantastic B&W print and a few smattering of handmade Vietnamese object d' art out.

I attempted to frame a very strong and serious South African picture I had, but ended up breaking the frame. It'll remain in the pile of 'stuff I really want to have on my walls' for a while longer. Anyways, thanks for the wonderful painting. I added a link to Gretchen's site so that you can check out her other works for yourself.

Those orchids look like they're in a wind tunnel!

Alberta Leads Canadian Economy

2011-09-12T08:53:00.004-06:00

3.7% hike forecast for this year

"CALGARY — Alberta is positioned as one of Canada’s provincial leaders in growth, according to the latest RBC Economics Provincial Outlook report released Monday.
The provincial economy is set to grow at a rate of 3.7 per cent in 2011 and 3.9 per cent in 2012, said RBC. Both years Alberta will be second overall in the country behind nation-leading Saskatchewan’s growth rates of 4.3 per cent this year and 4.1 per cent next year. "

This has had a positive impact on employment, as more than 77,000 jobs were added to the Alberta economy in the first eight months of this year, which was the strongest gain ever recorded over this period in the province.” That's like adding two Moose Jaw Saskatchewan cities to the population at the beginning of the year! One of the major headaches the oil patch is struggling with now is employment - not having enough people. With varied hiring tactics, the energy sector hopes to diminish the approaching labour crunch - let's hope they succeed."

Read More Here

Stocks - rough riding in September

2011-09-08T08:20:00.002-06:00

"Welcome to September, traditionally the worst month of the year on the stock market calendar.

Yeah, I know. I feel your pain. We've already suffered enough nastiness since equity markets peaked in the spring.

The major indexes have been slowly grinding their way lower ever since, despite some short-lived rallies along the way." Jump

Traditionally we are in for a tough stock ride ahead. The bright side as I see it is after major downturns and historically rough trading cycles the markets tend to be blessed with positive up cycles. Let's get through the bad to get to the good.

The Conservative Party in Alberta

2011-09-08T08:16:00.001-06:00

"It's no mystery why the Alberta Progressive Conservative Party has remained in power for 40 years, even though The Journal's reporters and experts, celebrating the anniversary, do their best to make the obvious mysterious." Comment from Journal

I don't know why I'm surprised by the publication of these silly, narrow, generalizing rants - but I am. I suppose I mirror rants like these with my own...

People in politics and politics in general create, manage and grow an economy (all though many also leech and destroy one). It is a basic tenet to manage and grow a community; with infrastructure, business, economy as well as spirit. What kind of person patronizingly 'unveils the big mystery' about the big bad conservatives coming to rule in the land of plenty? Someone who remains ignorant of the system we use to ELECT our government I assume. Read More Here

Cornerstone Project - III Permit approval

2011-08-31T12:03:00.003-06:00

You may have read my other posts here and here about our Cornerstone funded basement suite. We've now come to the point where our permit has been approved by the city and we can formally apply to get funding.

The permit took about 6 weeks and we were lucky to get it so quickly. The time-lines can actually range to 8 weeks. One crucial thing about waiting for a permit is that you can't do any renos past the framing. No dry-walling can go up so it's a veritable standstill. However if you are doing any electrical work (like the hard wired fire alarms which are mandatory) or plumbing now is the time. You can get all that done and have those permits issued well within the 6 weeks it takes to get the building permit.

We are all dry-walled and partially "mudded" and waiting to hit full speed. Turning the still rough outline of a suite to the livable modern space we've envisioned.

I've actually got my ads up and have pre-approved some tenants. When I show the space I tell them to bring their imaginations!

We've applied to the program with all our documents and hope to hear back in 10 days with the final approval. The final funding doesn't come till after the suite is finished and the housing branch does a final inspection.

This and That

2011-08-23T12:04:00.003-06:00

Government of Canada develops innovative cancer treatment

EDMONTON, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - Aug. 17, 2011) - "The Government of Canada is supporting the development of a new cancer radiation therapy device that could lead to more precise and life-saving treatment methods.

A federal investment of $2.5 million will support the University of Alberta, Alberta Health Services' Cross Cancer Institute and industry to develop, test and commercialize a new cancer radiation therapy technology called Magnetic Resonance Real-time Guided Radiation Therapy (MRrtgRT). In addition to federal funding, the Province of Alberta is also investing $250,000 towards the initiative, while the Alberta Cancer Foundation is contributing $2.15 million. Alberta Health Services and its industry partners, ASG Superconductors and Paramed, are contributing $1.1 million."

You might wonder why I included this article in an investment blog. I heard an interview on CBC Radio about this technology and was impressed, especially with the tenacity that UOA explores cancer research, treatment and cure. I'm also interested in how the UOA/government intends to bring this technology to market. When I talk about nanotechnology and medical leadership in Alberta, this is the tangible fruit that comes from it.

Residential property sales in Canada hold steady but property prices fall slightly

Thursday, 18 August 2011

"Buyer confidence, favorable mortgage rates and a healthy economy are resulting in higher home sales across Canada, particularly in Newfoundland, Edmonton, Labrador and Montreal. Even so, national average prices slipped for the month of July, although analysts believe this may be due to the retreat of home sales in more expensive neighborhoods in Vancouver, where sales were down. The sales in these more expensive areas act to skew national averages and result in some finding them unreliable, but on the whole observers believe the market will continue showing healthy numbers in the housing market.

Sales of residential properties in Canada were stable in July compared with the previous month with just over half of local markets posting gains, according to the latest statistics from The Canadian Real Estate Association.
Major markets that saw gains compared to June include Edmonton, Montreal, Newfoundland and Labrador. Activity also held steady in Toronto, while Vancouver recorded a small decline.

‘The continued stability in national sales activity shows that homebuyers remain confident about the soundness of investing in a home. Mortgage interest rates are low and keeping home affordability within reach, making it an excellent time for buyers to take advantage of very favourable financing,’ said CREA president Gary Morse"

Lower prices and NO sales is bad news. Higher demand, lower prices are fine as we wait for the economy to strengthen, rates to increase and the pendulum to swing back towards a seller's market - which will take a few years if the (global and provincial) economies can stay on track.

This is roughly how expensive (or affordable depending on your income) a Vancouver bungalow is... Remember, there's only one Vancouver though!

"The Royal Bank of Canada said yesterday it would take 92 per cent of the median household’s pretax income to own a bungalow in the city at current prices – the highest reading yet in its quarterly national survey on affordability.

The bank said most Canadian cities offered “reasonably affordable” housing options in the second quarter compared to the first. Nationally, a condo required 29.2 per cent of pretax household income (a 0.8 per cent increase), a bungalow 43.3 per cent (1.7 per cent) and a detached home 49.3 per cent (1.8 per cent).

RBC said it would take an income of $157,800 to buy a Vancouver bungalow in the second quarter, and that the average house price in the city was $822,300 – 19 per cent higher than a year ago."

Jack Layton's Letter to Canadians

I posted Jack Layton's letter today to celebrate a passionate man's life; not to share his politics. He always spoke with so much genuine enthusiasm its hard not to like his personality and respect his conviction. Although he left too soon, he left a very positive legacy that won't be forgotten anytime soon.

Dear Friends,

Tens of thousands of Canadians have written to me in recent weeks to wish me well. I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughtful, inspiring and often beautiful notes, cards and gifts. Your spirit and love have lit up my home, my spirit and my determination. Read More

Summer of Discontent

2011-08-15T21:33:00.004-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

August 15th., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 10

Dear Friends and Partners,

If you're watching your stocks go further and further down... you may dub this the 'Summer of Discontent'. Unless you are very good at shorting stocks, have bars of gold and silver or cash-flowing real estate, you are feeling it. But, that is nothing new. I think since returning to Canada I am much more aware of the nonstop bombardment of negative media. Does this help me be a better investor? Only when I turn it off!

Almost all of the news you need to know your friends or family will tell you. When you're studying and researching prior to making an investment, short term events (bad news) will play a role, especially if the 'problem' can sway the market and be solved in the near future. For the next three weeks I am going to read the smiles on my family's faces and listen to the laughter generated from having time away and in the outdoors. Enjoy your summer!

-Glenn Simon Inc. will be closed for summer holiday between August 24th and September 12th. Newsletters will resume September 15th.-

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Three-Plex In Westmount

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1948 built 3-plex with separate entrance to all units. 3 stylishly finished suites; One 2 bedroom unit on main, plus one upgraded 650 sqft. 2 bedroom suites down and a very cool 2 bedroom suite on the top floor. The upper suites have laminate, fresh paint and original hardwood. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower unit has new paint, brand new tub and toilet as well. Lower suite walks out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage with brand new door and opener bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $440 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $384K Total Investment: $115K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $56K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 49% or 10% per year + $440 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 3 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============
Calgary Leading Charge In Carbon Capture

Local firm involved in building Alberta's first carbon capture pipeline

By Chris Nelson, Calgary Herald. August 14th 2011

As much of North America baked under record-setting temperatures this summer, few people would have considered carbon dioxide a continental resource.

Mention CO2 to the majority of Canadians and the words "global warming" spring readily to mind.

Susan Cole's mind works differently. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============
No New Taxes Or Royalties, Most Tory Leadership Hopefuls Say

By Jason Fekete, Calgary Herald. August 13th, 2011

Most of the six candidates vying to replace Ed Stelmach as Tory leader and premier are pledging no new taxes and vow not to increase energy royalties from oil and gas development on Crown land. As the race heats up to the first Tory leadership vote on Sept. 17, would-be premiers are increasingly rolling out their visions for Alberta and how they would deal with a projected $3.4-billion deficit and rapidly evaporating rainy day savings account. READ MORE HERE

===============

Low Interest Rates Good For The Economy; Not So Much For Consumer Debt

Huffington Post, Canada. August 10th, 2011

With uncertainty once again dogging the world economy, it now seems unlikely that the run of cheap credit that has made it easier for consumers to spend big in the wake of the downturn will end anytime soon.

After the Dow Jones Industrial plummeted 634 points on Monday, its sharpest one-day decline since the dark days of late 2008, the United States Federal Reserve said in a statement Tuesday that it expects to hold “extremely low” interest rates, the key factor in determining borrowing costs, until at least mid-2013. FOLLOW THIS STORY

===============

More Rental Properties Being Built In Edmonton: CMHC

INews, August 9th 2011

Apartment construction is the bright spot this month on the Canada Housing Corporation housing starts report.

Rain has been making construction difficult, and dragging down numbers of single-family starts in Edmonton. But as CMHC's Richard Goatcher tells us, multiple-unit starts more than make up for it.

"Apartments were pretty much three times the number that we saw in July of last year," he says, "so that helped to lift the total numbers up by nine percent year-over-year."

But what if the economy takes a turn for the worse? GRAB THIS STORY

===============
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"The quieter you become, the more you can hear." -Baba Ram Das

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start home study sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

FOMO - You really need to read this.

2011-07-31T17:26:00.009-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

August 1st., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 9

Dear Friends and Partners,

My buddy Greg texted me last Wednesday to see if I was in town so that we could meet for dinner. After a few messages back and forth I picked up the phone to continue the conversation and clarify our plans; so much can get missed in a text. I like meeting up with Greg whenever and wherever I can, he is always on the go. Earlier this year Greg took his design company public and has been the center of a media storm promoting his corporation and vision - He's a charismatic, busy and eligible bachelor too.

We met up at a local kid friendly cafe so that my wife and son could join in the conversation, Greg and Danielle have been friends for years, too. We listened to Greg's stories of how rival companies jetted him to NYC and London in hopes of courting a business deal or buyout. Greg also spent 1 month traveling around Buenos Aires, learning the 'true-tango'. We sipped our organic juices and then started hitting the espressos as the Latin American stories heated up.

It was a great visit and man, did we have a case of FOMO on the way home.... I know that my friend has a bit of FOMO too when he sees our family life, especially as he's stepping into his mid-40's. To be in absolute serenity may be to live in the now; be happily in the moment. But, it isn't always that way when you are constantly striving to be, do or have something more or better; be it spiritual or physical. Essentially FOMO is the modern version of keeping up with the Joneses, it is simply augmented, or even agitated, by technology.

You may not suffer from the Fear Of Missing Out, but like anyone at some point you may find yourself pining for a week (or a year) away on the desert island of your dreams. Every summer I like to take time off and focus away from my business and into the outdoors and family activities. I aim to incorporate that into everyday I have, but often don't. Enjoy YOUR summer and remember to take time off for you.

===============

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Three-Plex In Westmount

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1948 built 3-plex with separate entrance to all units. 3 stylishly finished suites; One 2 bedroom unit on main, plus one upgraded 650 sqft. 2 bedroom suites down and a very cool 2 bedroom suite on the top floor. The upper suites have laminate, fresh paint and original hardwood. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower unit has new paint, brand new tub and toilet as well. Lower suite walks out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage with brand new door and opener bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent established neighborhood featuring many heritage homes; solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $440 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $384K Total Investment: $115K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $56K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 49% or 10% per year + $440 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 3 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============
Edmonton To Get 440 Affordable Housing Units

By Keith Gerian, Edmonton Journal. July 21st 2011

EDMONTON - Five Edmonton-area affordable housing projects moved closer to groundbreaking Thursday when the federal and provincial governments announced a joint $43-million investment toward construction costs.

The projects in Edmonton, Spruce Grove and Beaumont are expected to create 441 new apartment units offering rents below market value to low-income residents. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============
Canadian Oil; Ethical, and Sensible

By Jullien Russell Brunet, Glob and Mail. Tuesday July 19th, 2011

While the Canadian government worries about the country’s dependence on oil exports to the U.S., the security of future sales there and developing a national energy strategy, the Fraser Institute’s Mark Milke offers Americans a stark choice: It's us, or someone much more unsavoury. In short, a study released Tuesday by the Vancouver-based think tank argues that “attempts to restrict U.S. imports of Canadian oil ignore the reality of U.S. dependence on foreign oil and could force America to buy oil from repressive governments.”READ MORE HERE

===============

Economy Tops Agenda For Premiers' Meeting

By Jason Fekete, Calgary Herald. July 19th, 2011

EDMONTON - Ed Stelmach heads to Vancouver this week for his final Council of the Federation conference as Alberta premier, where he’ll join provincial and territorial leaders trumpeting cornerstones of his time in office: capitalizing on Canadian resources and tapping Asian markets. The economy in its many facets — jobs, investment and trade — is a top agenda item at the annual summer meeting of Canada’s 13 premiers, which runs Wednesday through Friday. GRAB THIS STORY

===============
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Even if you are on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." -Will Rogers

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

From Peter Kinch's Blog

2011-07-21T16:18:00.001-06:00

"In this interview on the Fanny Kiefer Show, Peter Kinch and Don Campbell bust some common 'Myths' about Vancouver real estate prices, interest rates and real estate investing in general."
What's happening with rates?
Should I float or lock in?
Can I still buy affordable housing in Vancouver?

Here's the interview on last week's Studio 4 with Kinch and Campbell - dispelling myths and trying to make sense of this market... After the Jump!

Risky Renovations

2011-07-15T08:32:00.006-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

July 15th., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 8

Dear Friends and Partners,

Trust that you are keeping busy and taking advantage of the summer. We're knee-deep in drywall, asbestos and concrete for our Cornerstone suite renovation. You can follow the progress on Edmonton Investor blog spot.

CBC Radio Active had a snapshot interview that centered around the very good advice of not over-"renoing". One of the most common traps that home owners get into when renovating is the add on. We're much more likely to throw in all our wish list items during a renovation project and end up way over budget. It seems easier to get the work done on your bathroom when your kitchen is being ripped out. Logical or not, don't do it. Stick to your budget and factor in additional renovations for a later date.

Often during renovations you may uncover some fault that needs remedy and it is beneficial to have a cushion in your budget for the unexpected. For example, while tearing down the walls to build a kitchen in the basement suite we found a hairline crack in the parging. Not a big deal except that it was damp at the base with a slow seep of water coming in. The parging had been done about 20 years earlier and covered up a much larger crack in the concrete wall. Better to discover this now than after you have spent $35K building the basement suite.

I ended up repairing this crack myself for about $60 in materials and 4 hours labour. You can spend anywhere from $400-$1000 for an internal crack to be repaired and much more if you attack the job from on the outside (I did a combination of both). Unexpected jobs come up and can be costly; prepare as best you can in your budget. Resist the urge to over renovate, instead, work in stages.

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Six-Plex In Queen Mary Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1978 built 6-plex with separate entrance to all units. 4 functionally finished 710 sqft. 1 bedrooms on main, plus 2 upgraded 650 sqft. 1 bedroom suites up. The upper suites have laminate and fresh paint. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower units have new paint and some fixtures as well. Lower suites walk out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent transitional neighborhood with solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $676 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $525K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $76K.Your pre-tax Total ROI is 60% or 12% per year + $676 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 6 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

Job Gains In Alberta Top Numbers For Entire U.S.

Province Added 22,000 Jobs In June

By Kim Guttormson, Calgary Herald. July 9th 2011

Alberta's brisk employment growth continued in June as the province added 22,000 jobs, more than were created in the entire United States.
But with more people re-entering the job hunt and moving here in search of work, Alberta's unemployment rate actually climbed slightly, to 5.6 per cent.

"They're really strong," ATB Financial economist Dan Sumner said of the Statistics Canada job numbers released Friday. "It's a little bit surprising how strong."

The variety of jobs across a number of sectors also speaks to the health of the Alberta economy, he pointed out. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============
Husky Bets Big On Northern Canada Oil Drilling Rights

TEDx A Showcase of Edmonton Innovators

By Jeffrey Jones, Reuters July 5th 2011

CALGARY, Alberta, July 5 (Reuters) - Husky Energy Inc (HSE.TO) has opened its wallet to grab the lion's share of C$534 million ($556 million) of winning bids for oil-drilling rights in the central Mackenzie Valley area of Canada's far north, sparking speculation it may be chasing a rich prospect.

In the 2011 government auction of drilling rights in northern lands, Husky bid C$376 million for two parcels near Norman Wells in the Northwest Territories, vastly outspending some of the world's largest oil majors, the government announced on Monday. READ MORE HERE

===============

Energy Drives Alberta To #1 Growth

By Mario Toneguzzi, Calgary Herald July 7th, 2011

An improving energy sector will fuel economic growth in Alberta, which Scotia Economics predicts will be the strongest in the country this year and next.

In a report released Wednesday, the bank said real GDP growth in the province will be 4.2 per cent this year, the highest in the nation, followed by 3.3 per cent growth in 2012, which will tie Saskatchewan at No. 1.

Scotia Economics is forecasting Canadian economic growth of 2.7 per cent this year and 2.5 per cent in 2012. GRAB THIS STORY

===============

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"The more chance there is of stubbing your toe, the more chance you have of stepping into success." -Author Unknown

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Cornerstone Project - II

2011-07-07T14:58:00.003-06:00

I'm continuing my Cornerstone Project basement suite development series. Please read the first post here.
In order to get funding for the Cornerstone Project you have to provide a series of documents. Most are relatively easy to get together but timing is crucial especially with the permit.

What you need:
1. Two itemized estimates of the total construction cost of the proposed suite - easy enough it would seem. If you have contractors you trust and use regularly have them come by and took a look. We actually had 8 contractors come through to get 2 quotes that ranged by about $15k. Make sure you get a lot of estimates so you have a good idea of what's out there and what is inline for costs.

2. Copy of Development Permit and Building Permit/ Electrical Permit - This one takes A LONG time. Think 4 to 8 weeks. If you think you'll get the suite up and be rented withing 6 weeks it's ambitious. The permit requires a lot of documents of it's own so prepare well, reserve a lot of time and plan for 2-month turnover before you can even start renos.

A) Development Permit and Building Permit for the City of Edmonton requirements:
i. Pictures from all angles of the property
ii. The Real Property Report - it must show 3 parking spots NOT including street parking (I know)
iii. A drawing of the space to be renovated including

-size and uses of all rooms
-locations of doorways
-floor to ceiling height
-direction the doors open
-window size and locations
-location of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in main suite, basement suite, furnace room and top of exit stairwell
-plumbing and electrical changes
-construction materials

There must also be a true to scale drawing of the main floor above the suite. Our contractor did a basic drawing and I finished off all the details. I'm pretty artistically challenged and my walls didn't line up but as long as you "do your best" they will accept it ~ within reason of course.

The permit cost a total of $724.88 $260 of that is basic fee for Secondary Suite built within and Existing House and the rest depends on the cost of your renos.

Electrical Permit - generally the contractor pulls this.

3. Copy of land title or a valid offer to purchase to confirm the ownership of the property - an accepted offer is great or if you've owned the property for a while get title from the Registry office.

4. Copy of a current property tax notice/assessment - we just squeaked by on this as the vendors had not paid any taxes for 2011. Taxes are due by June 30 of the tax year and our closing date was June 24th. We went down to city hall and paid the arrears of course funds were credited to us in the sale. Make sure your taxes are up to date.

5. Confirmation of project financing - simply a bank statement showing you have the funds.

If you take away anything from this it's give yourself enough time to get the permit.

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T13:10:00.005-06:00

Alberta Oilsands Real Estate Investment News ,Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB Canada.
Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
http://www.glennsimoninc.com/ email: info@glennsimoninc.com

July 1st, 2011 Volume 10 Issue 7

Dear Friends and Partners,

This newsletter is our compact holiday version. Please look for the full length issue on July 15, 2011.

It's a beatiful day in Edmonton. The sky is blue and sprawling as only the prairie sky can be. For the last ten years we celebrated Canada Day in a small park in Tokyo generally during rainy season. Eating hotdogs and cake with a smattering of ex-pats from across our country sharing funny stories of being the stranger in a strange land while rain poured down. Sounds dire but we never missed a single celebration.

Driving around Edmonton seeing the flags, all the celebrations and fireworks is a great reminder of why we got together every year with our fellow ex-pats. Being Canadian was our common denominator, although we spanned from British Columbia to P.E.I we were joined by the red maple leafs sewn on our packs or sometimes tattooed on limbs.

We raise a glass to all the ex-pats joined together wherever they are to celebrate being Canadian.

Click Here for Fun Facts about Canada!

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step to building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"When one door closes another door opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully at the closed door, that we do not see the ones that open for us." Alexander Graham Bell 9th Greatest Canadian

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

My Sweet Suite deal - Cornerstones

2011-06-28T19:32:00.005-06:00

living room of basement suite

For the past 2 years the City of Edmonton has offered a program to help improve the amount of affordable housing in Edmonton. The Cornerstone Project offers funding, up to 75% of $32,000 to be exact, to bring an existing suite to code or build a new basement or garden suite.

At first the program was a little lame. No funding for rentals houses had to be owner occupied and rent had to be below market average. Recently with a lot of money not going anywhere Edmonton has revised the program. Rentals are ok with market rent to a tenant with less than average income ie student etc.

So with over $6 million looking for suites to renovate we've decided to take the plunge and I'm going to chronicle the process for you here.

I've bought over 50 house but I've never bought a home. Unbelievable right? We bought our first home this month and decided to use the Cornerstone to put a suite in the basement. Even though we'll live here we'll improve the market value and make it a great rental for when we move onto our next place.

Step 1: The Inspection

So our first step was to call Cornerstones and book a inspection. A fire inspector and building inspector came out, went over the whole basement inside and out and made reports on the work that had to be done.

Including:

1. Drywall all ceilings and walls even in storage areas and under stairs
2. Ensure windows in bedrooms meet egress requirements. They also must not require special knowledge to open
3. Put hard-wired smoke alarms in suite, common areas and on the main floor
4. There should be a fan in the bathroom and proper venting in kitchen
5. Separate entrance must have easy access
6. Ceilings must be 96 inches minimum

The report also called for inspections of the hot water tank and that the furnace had property venting.

The next step PERMITS.

Vancouver Riots and Romance

2011-06-20T09:59:00.004-06:00

The riots last week in Vancouver left us all ashamed and angered at the hooligans that turned a sporting event into a national embarrassment.

One light in the darkness (isn't there always one?) is the couple who found a bit of time for romance on the street while cars burned, windows smashed and tear gas zinged around them.
Take a break to look at this truly funny photo gallery dedicated to their unbridled passion.

Click Here - the hot dog one is my favorite.

Raise Your Hand

2011-06-15T09:13:00.004-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

June 16th., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 6

Dear Friends and Partners,

I've had a very busy month that took me to Mississauga, NYC, 3 awesome workshops and the Canadian book launch of Change Anything where I met author Joseph Grenny. The travel was fantastic and the folks that I learned with at these events, were amazing. I'd love to share with you the long list of cool experiences that I had including buying a Gretchen Fuss painting in SoHo to hanging out with a pair of very successful IT developers in a Manhattan beer garden.

But, the point that I'd like to mention is that you have to raise your hand. Initially, I didn't raise my hand to go on this Eastern trip as I have many pressing obligations back in Edmonton, but Danielle challenged me enough to look at how I could tweak my schedule to make it happen - and I did. As soon as I 'raised my hand' and committed to going, everything fell into place - well almost everything, as there are always a few hiccups.

One thing I thought about New York was the image of 'making it' there. If you have taught yoga or owned a restaurant in NYC for longer than a year, chances are you look like you've made it. In reality your day may be a struggle and you are fighting to attract customers and keep your head above water, but optically you've made it. Why is that? I think many people aren't willing to raise their hand to challenge and competition, be it NYC or any other place or form. When you 'yes' I'll try, you are already halfway there. It may turn out that you don't like NYC or that you learned a better way to do something or another place or career that you'd rather be living out, but for that moment you have 'done it'. The staying power needed in a big city, top company, specific niche is tremendous. The competition extreme, and if you can stay the course, which is always much longer than a year, you have proven your ability to play the game at a higher level.

Here's to upping the game this month or taking time to savour the view from the place you're at.

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Six-Plex In Queen Mary Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1978 built 6-plex with separate entrance to all units. 4 functionally finished 710 sqft. 1 bedrooms on main, plus 2 upgraded 650 sqft. 1 bedroom suites up. The upper suites have laminate and fresh paint. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower units have new paint and some fixtures as well. Lower suites walk out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent transitional neighborhood with solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $676 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $525K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $76K.Your pre-tax Total ROI is 60% or 12% per year + $676 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month
Poised for massive growth. These 6 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

Edmonton International Airport Terminal Expansion Under Budget, Ahead of Schedule

Original $1B Budget Reduced By 25% As Recession Reduced Cost Of materials

By Bill Mah, Edmonton Journal. June 8th 2011

EDMONTON - Construction of a massive terminal expansion at the Edmonton International Airport is coming in under budget and faster than expected.
Adding more than 480,000 square feet — roughly the size of eight football fields — to the existing terminal building was originally budgeted at about $1 billion.

===============

TEDx A Showcase of Edmonton Innovators

By Codi Wilson, Postmedia News June 11th 2011

EDMONTON -- Of all the video games former programmer Aaryn Flynn enjoys playing, Scrabble on his iPad is a favourite.

“It’s fun to play with your friends,” Flynn said. “It’s good for travelling too.”

Flynn, the studio general manager at BioWare, an Edmonton-based video game developer, spoke at the TEDx event Saturday inside the Citadel Theatre to a crowd of approximately 200. TEDx is a conference of ideas lead by technology and design industry leaders around the world.

===============

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Winning isn't everything, but the will to win is everything." -Vince Lombardi

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Labour Shortage Looming?

2011-06-14T14:05:00.002-06:00

"Now, the Alberta government forecasts a shortage of at least 77,000 workers within the next decade.

“We’re walking into a perfect storm,” Alberta Employment and Immigration Minister Thomas Lukaszuk says."

Is this the beginning of another labour shortage? Possibly – there are definitely more ‘Help Wanted’ signs appearing and contractors are busier.

We’ve noticed an increase in tenants looking for rentals as well. Some of this demand is seasonal with a rush to get outdoor jobs (construction) done before winter. We’re busier here in Alberta and starting on the upswing, but we still have a few valleys to cross before we get moving full swing. Next year we should really see the demand. Click Here to read more

Mortgage Rates and You

2011-06-02T12:45:00.004-06:00

May 31, 2011 was the day anyone holding a variable rate mortgage was waiting for with bated breath. Mortgage rates looked like they were going up but now it looks like we may have a reprieve from rate increase for the short term due to global unrest.

“The Fed is not even dreaming of raising rates in the next 12 months,” Benjamin Tal

We've got a rate lock on a mortgage for September 2011, the big dilema, wheter to go variable at great cashflow and higher stress or lock in at a great steady rate for 3 years. We've chosen to lock in on this property. There were many factors but sometimes you get sick of the ups and downs of variable rates even though they do better in the long run. In the end it's all up to you.

VIDEO : Peter Kinch on the Bank of Canada's decision to not increase mortgage rates on May 31, 2011.

Calgary Edmonton Recovery Cycle

2011-06-02T12:17:00.003-06:00

"An improving Alberta economy will lead to employment growth and an increase in the number of people moving to Calgary, which will be good news for the region's housing market in the next two years.

A report by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. forecasts MLS sales in the Calgary region to increase by nearly five per cent this year compared with a year ago, while the average sale price will rise by just over one per cent."

We’ll still see ups and downs for a while longer while we head into improved upward momentum. The next 18 to 24 months will be steady for Calgary and Edmonton, and then we should move into full recovery cycle (meaning 2 years into a 5-7 year cycle). Calgary generally dictates the direction of Edmonton, so we watch and welcome their increase in home prices. If you factor in 3% appreciation per year over the next 5 years you should be on track.

Read More Here

Come Together, Right Now....

2011-05-30T10:39:00.008-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News® Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517  www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com  

June 1st., 2011  Volume 10, Issue 5  

Dear Friends and Partners,

I moderate my doses of news as so much of it is unhealthy; unhealthy reporting, topics and servings of negativity. With that said I do tune into a few CBC Radio programs and they have had extensive coverage of the Slave Lake fire. I have found the interviews of the residents powerful. CBC reporters had spoken with folks who were literally breathless from having run to escape the flames. Other coverage took place from makeshift shelters in Athabasca. And more recently from the parking lot of a nearby town, as buses departed taking residents on a trip back of the remains of Slave Lake, touring neighborhoods where fire disintegrated more than three quarters of the homes to smoldering ash.

Imagine that for a moment. You're at home with your kids when suddenly you get a knock at the door telling you you have to leave - right now. You grab the kids, your pets and not much else. As you try and flee town you realize the fire is much worse than you thought as your only escape is a dusty, smoky, potholed back road lined with an inferno of blazing orange trees, collapsing helter-skelter around you. The next couple days are a blur as firefighters from all over Canada are sent in to help put out the fire - but it is stubborn and takes days. You still don't know if your house or business survived. Fast forward to last Thursday when residents did get to go back, many of which had lost their cars, homes and places of employment.

CBC interviewed these folks and the matter-of-fact resilience was amazing. Many people were optimistic to rebuild and excited that a few landmarks remained. They might have lost almost all of their material objects save the intangible memories they shared in their homes - but they are optimistic! I certainly hope I would be. Of course there are folks rightfully bewildered by loss and despair but the overwhelming majority shares a bespoke 'Getter Done' attitude to rebuilding.

Take a bit of that resilience today and magnify it back in the things you do; let it grow and go back to those people and the people in your family and community.

===============

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Six-Plex In Queen Mary Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1978 built 6-plex with separate entrance to all units. 4 functionally finished 710 sqft. 1 bedrooms on main, plus 2 upgraded 650 sqft. 1 bedroom suites up. The upper suites have laminate and fresh paint. There is a common laundry room in basement. The lower units have new paint and some fixtures as well. Lower suites walk out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage bringing in additional revenue. 10 minutes to NAIT, Grant MacEwan and Downtown. Fast access to Yellowhead Highway and on the bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent transitional neighborhood with solid value and stable rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $675.87 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $525K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $76K.Your pre-tax Total ROI is 60% or 12% per year + $980 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

Poised for massive growth. These 6 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

Calgary Rental Company Offers Free Apartments For Slave Lake Fire Victims

By Clara Ho, Calgary Herald. May 24th 2011

CALGARY — A Calgary-based apartment rental company is offering 50 Edmonton suites to Slave Lake fire victims free of charge for up to three months.

“When I was watching TV, I saw many guys sleeping in gyms, sleeping bags, in cars, and my heart bled for them,” said Bob Dhillon, CEO of Mainstreet Equity Corp., which owns 8,000 apartment units across Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon and Vancouver.

“What we can offer is accommodation. We want to give them an opportunity to get their life together.”

READ MORE
===============
Expect To Pay More For Food, Power This Summer: National Energy Board

By Dina O'Meara, Calgary Herald May 20th 2011

CALGARY — Be prepared to pay more for power and fuel this summer in Alberta, according to the latest price outlook by the National Energy Board.

Although gasoline prices have eased somewhat since jumping earlier in the month, oil prices averaging $100 US per barrel to $120 US per barrel over the summer likely will cause renewed pain at the pump, the board said Thursday.

Unrest in the Middle East, the crisis in Japan and China’s growing demand for energy all factored into the boards expectations of continued high prices for oil. READ MORE HERE

===============

Armed With White Stetsons, Calgary Invades China

Carolynne Wheeler: The Globe and Mail, May 27th, 2011

There will be an estimated 150 million outbound Chinese tourists by 2015. Alberta is hoping a few hundred thousand of them will be inspired to take a look at some of Canada’s natural wonders.

Armed with a new Mandarin-language tourism website and dozens of white Stetsons to give away to business leaders, Calgary’s largest-ever trade delegation has just landed in Beijing for a week of selling its city to a Chinese audience. GRAB THIS STORY

===============
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"The best place to find a helping hand is at the end of your own arm." -Swedish Proverb

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

What can $300k buy in Edmonton?

2011-05-23T14:40:00.004-06:00

In case you missed this video when it was aired earlier this year, we bring it back again. Don Campbell puts forth a solid argument for Edmonton and Calgary's real estate future.

If you are new to investing, you'll need to add several more lines of expenses to Don's example. Perhaps his 'miscellaneous' item covers some of these but in addition to your P.I.T. (principle, interest and tax payments) you'll need to add: vacancy factor, repair factor, property management (even if you do it yourself, factor it in as one day you might pass it over to a manager), advertising costs and insurance.

We also add bookkeeping costs, but you may feel you don't need that. These additions will give you a realistic cash flow number and it will be significantly less than the cash flow number derived from P.I.T./misc. alone in the BNN video. If you have money left over from repair/maintenance at the end of the month that goes into your account to build a buffer for the unit.

Watch Video Here

This and That

2011-05-20T16:33:00.004-06:00

Bold Step Forward Starts with Future Fund - "During the latter part of the Klein years, the Alberta government was criticized as not having a vision for the province's economic future. In response, in 2009 Premier Ed Stelmach commissioned a council of prominent resident and non-resident Albertans to create a vision for sustained prosperity in a changing world.

Some of the report's recommendations, released this month, have been criticized, some are gathering support and many will play out in the coming months as no less than three Alberta political parties choose new leaders. But whatever you think about the report, it is important not to throw out the baby with the bathwater."

Imagine if this kind of plan became mandatory for a province? Every city, town and local government sat down together and made an action plan for the next 30 years. Sure, sometimes plans would change or the ideas may be off-track and need to be altered, but what a great idea! Instead of running to catch up with what happens to us; we begin to shape and attract what we want to see in the future. Read More Here

Inter-provincial Migration to Alberta Set to Pick Up - "This provides an incentive for Canadians to relocate to Alberta and, if history is any guide (see graph), net interprovincial migration to Alberta could as much as triple from 2010 levels over the next few years.

In addition to the favorable unemployment differential, wages and housing prices in Alberta are also supportive of higher net-migration to Alberta. Wages in Alberta are the highest in the country (by far) at over 15 per cent higher than the Canadian average. And, compared to the boom years, housing prices have cooled off in Alberta relative to other provinces, which makes relocating here more affordable."

Strong in-migration, higher wages and housing affordability all equal an increase in renters as well as renters-turn-to-home-buyers in the next 18-36 months. This is good for landlords in the Edmonton housing market. Click Here

Five Alberta MPs rewarded with spots in Harper's new cabinet - "University of Calgary political scientist David Stewart said cabinet's composition gives the province a strong voice at the decision-making table. "Albertans certainly are arguably in the two most powerful positions (in government)," Stewart said."

Although the new cabinet is on the large side (should make NDP pleased) the selection of Albertan MPs will give us a representative voice in Ottawa. Jump Here

Pray for those at Slave Lake

2011-05-16T11:59:00.004-06:00

Sad news from Northern Alberta - thousands of homes, business and public structures have been destroyed by raging wildfires. Over 7,000 residents have had to flee their homes.

Please go here to read the story and watch videos - HERE
To donate to these people who now relay on the kindness of others - RED CROSS DONATION

"A Canadian Red Cross team of volunteers are deploying immediately from Edmonton and will accompany more than 400 shelter cots and 800 hygiene kits and blankets. The Red Cross volunteer team will provide additional shelter support to the lead agency which is the Slave Lake Disaster Services once they have arrived. The Red Cross will work closely with Alberta Emergency Management Authority and other community partners to ensure that basics needs of the evacuees are met."

And The Winds Blow...

2011-05-14T11:04:00.006-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

May 14th., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 4

Dear Friends and Partners,

My opening newsletter for May was titled 'Winds Of Change' and they certainly blew through our nation and province; both figuratively and literally. Every riding but one in Alberta is Conservative. We will all benefit from a majority government for the next 4 years (hopefully) bringing continued economic growth and stability leading the country out of the recession.

Real Estate wise I have seen a unique little hot-spot develop in the area in which I live; house hunters are combing the sleepy tree-lined streets. The most sought after homes have character, are suited and nestle the green belt. Now I'll temper that comment with the buyers being very price sensitive - there is a narrow margin of what the market is saying these houses are worth and if you are priced over, your listing will stagnate. There are other hot-pockets (not like Jim Gaffigan's) around town, and plenty of flat ones too.

Another literal affect of the winds of change, was the wind we've had this week. I awoke on Friday morning to discover one of my trees had split in half and blown down on the freshly planted blueberry bushes. I marvel these forces. Be an act of force; be the change you want to see.

West Central Edmonton: Cashflowing Three-Plex In Prince Rupert

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1931 built 4-plex with separate entrance to lower units. Beautifully finished 1280 sqft. 3 bedroom up, plus 2 upgraded 840 sqft. 1 bedroom suites down. The upper suites have laminate and fresh paint. There is a common laundry room for up and down suite, 1 per side. The lower units have had windows replaced as well. Lower suites walk out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage bringing in additional revenue. 10 minute walk to neighborhood park and fast access to Yellowhead Highway, NAIT, Grant MacEwan and bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient West Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent neighborhood that demands high resale value and stable rents especially with the city airport' improvement project. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $980 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Purchase price: $525K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $76K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 60% or 12% per year + $980 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

“Get into action and realize secure, long-term profits”

Already producing a great RETURN. Visit for the full FEATURE sheet and call 1-888-780-5940 to get started.

-Please remember: All investments carry RISK. Be sure to seek your own independent legal advice-

Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

===============

U of A Eyes South Campus For High Tech Institute

By Keith Gerein, Edmonton Journal. May 7th 2011

The University of Alberta's president thinks her school's south campus would make an ideal home for an advanced technology institute, one of the major proposals touted by a government-appointed economic panel.

Indira Samarasekera said the site's abundance of undeveloped land, access to the LRT and proximity to the U of A's research centres make it a good spot to host an institution dedicated to commercializing discoveries. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

===============
Alberta Must Start Saving Oil Cash: Report

By Darcy Henton, Calgary Herald May 6th 2011

Alberta must stop using royalty revenues to fund day-today operations and start pumping all its energy dollars into a fund that will support hightech companies, economic diversification and targeted initiatives such as high-speed rail, says a report from a blueribbon economic panel.

Former federal Tory cabinet minister David Emerson, who chaired the 12-member Premier's Council for Economic Strategy, said the government has a decade to wean itself off the non-renewable resource revenues it now relies on for 30 per cent of its spending. READ MORE HERE
===============

Expansion Of Oil Sands Upgrader Goes On-Stream

Press release: By Shell Company, May 1st 2011
CALGARY, Alberta, May 4, 2011 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Shell today announced the successful start of production from its Scotford Upgrader Expansion project in Canada. The 100,000 barrels-per-day expansion takes upgrading capacity at Scotford to 255,000 barrels-per-day of heavy oil from the Athabasca Oil sands. "This start-up is an important milestone for our heavy oil business.' said Marvin Odum, Shell Upstream Americas Director. "And it adds new capacity from an important source of oil in a world requiring more secure energy." GRAB THIS STORY

===============
I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Courage is the discovery that you may not win, and trying when you know that you can lose." -Tom Krause

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

Dream Big Alberta!

2011-05-12T12:05:00.000-06:00

A report on the challenges facing Alberta in the coming years is a blueprint on what we'll have to be, think and do to bring Alberta to the state of success she can be. Topics include pressing environmental issues, control program spending and curbing the province's reliance on energy royalties.

"It challenges Albertans to dream big, to look beyond the province's (and Canada's) borders, to think long-term, and to recognize how the rapid ascent of Asia and the decline of the U.S. will affect the province's future prospects." Read More

Politics and often the general mindset of folks is for today. People grumble about their daily jobs and rejoice during a boom; but many don't give much thought to the long-term. To think and live larger than our positions today, to plan and build for a BIG future is what is important. Breaking away from myopic ideas and talking, working and thinking bigger will lead to more ingenuity and a superior economy that is well balanced.

Layton Evades Critics

2011-05-09T14:41:00.000-06:00

“It does make me quite nervous when someone talks about another wealth-transfer program,” “All that’s going to do is reduce competitiveness and diminish our economy. We’ll lose our momentum and may never get it back.” Premier Ed Stelmach on Jack Layton's comment on oilsands

Cleanup is always good - just not when you're cleaning up money from Alberta's pocket and putting it into yours. Respecting the Oil Sands and the industry that they create and the lifestyle that they give many folks is very important. Keeping the Oil Sands moving towards better and more innovative environmental practices - also a good thing. Not addressing your plan and using the phrases 'dirty oil' a bad thing.

Osama Bin Laden's Death by Dr. John Demartini

2011-05-09T14:39:00.001-06:00

I am certain that many U.S. American's are now temporarily feeling that some form of justice has been finally served by Osama Bin Laden's death. But that may only be a temporary feeling and illusion. Bin Laden is only one of many individuals that have opposed and that still do oppose what the USA represents.

An over celebration of this death may be transiently meaningful and socially unwise. That is like the irrational exuberance that occurred when Saddam Hussein's statue fell and when he was captured. Many illusively imagined that the war in Iraq was now over and another illusive villain finally gone. But this too was naïve.

It is wiser to now understand that there are probably many Osama Bin Laden-like individuals with alternative and even opposing human values and intentions that will most likely emerge and attempt to confront or counter attack the U.S.A. once again.

Any time two individuals, families, communities, cities, states or nations have dissimilar or opposing values; clashes, conflicts and wars can ensue. Until two individuals, nations or cultures understand their differences and find their hidden similarities and humble themselves enough to learn and appreciate each other's unique values; value and ideological clashes will be repeated historically.

I am grateful for the closure on the story of 9-11 for many of the families and people directly and indirectly involved during the 2001 and other terrorist's attacks, but I feel that we are wise to ultimately learn that similar and opposing values (like synonyms and antonyms in language) are what make up the world. Having temporary wins or defeats over or under our opponents in a world that is ultimately here to teach us how to love and appreciate ourselves and others, is missing the ultimate purpose of the variety amongst human value systems that make up the world as a whole.

As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus once emphasized there exist dynamic equilibriums of complementary opposites throughout the world. True love may be ultimately a synthesis and synchronicity of these various complementary opposites.

This and That

2011-05-05T10:55:00.003-06:00

Alberta Industry cut 6.5M tonnes of Carbon emissions in 2010 -Do you remember a decade or longer ago when we captured almost zero green houses gas? There is so much more environmental control and cleanup being done now, it is a complete industry of its own. Does that mean that we shouldn’t expect green house gases to increase during growth periods? No. Does that mean that we shouldn’t continue to increase environmental stewardship and create newer and better ways to reduce gasses and improve the environment? No. We need to acknowledge the victories and continue the improvements; it might not be as fast as the snap of your fingers, but we are on the right path.

Edmonton house prices steady in March - Still a flat, but optimistic market; you can still ‘get a deal’ if you find a motivated seller. Folks with homes that don’t show well will get passed over or need to sell for lower as the competition for nice, clean homes is strong.

Harper says Western Canada can breathe easier with majority - B-R-E-A-T-H-E

The Majority Speaks

2011-05-03T10:01:00.002-06:00

It has been quite an exciting election this time around. If you look at the Canadian map of party support you can really see how diminished the Liberals/others were in this election. Equally amazing is how much of a win the NDP had. I hope that folks will agree to let the Conservative government with a majority win, do what they plan to do. Fair is fair and everyone got to vote. The NDP vote I think, should be pleased to see Jack Layton sitting across from Premier Harper in the HOC. It is a victory for them. And a victory for the Conservatives. Jump!

Canada's Power Increase

2011-05-02T11:01:00.002-06:00

This is an article from the Irish Times reviewing a book by Richard Gills. Gill's theory is that Northern Rim countries and cities will do well (better than BRIC countries for example) over the next 25 years. There isn't a whole lot of depth in the article/review but the lat sentence puzzles me

"While a nationalist Canadian might find optimism here, the rest of us should be concerned. Nothing funny there."

Why do people write such nonsense? The review is about the economy opening up in these areas through new trade channels and cities growing. Hardly scary for anyone. The take away is that, yes, Canada is indeed well positioned if we stay on track with responsible energy and economic development. Read More Here

Spring Winds Of Change

2011-04-30T14:55:00.006-06:00

Alberta Oil Sands Investment Real Estate News®
Glenn Simon Inc., Suite 1217, 5328 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tel 1-888-780-5940 Fax 1-888-276-4517
www.glennsimoninc.com email: info@glennsimoninc.com

May 1st., 2011
Volume 10, Issue 3

Dear Friends and Partners,

On Monday we will have a Federal election. If you didn't cast your vote early, you can cast your ballot on Election Day - May 2nd. For young adults or folks that aren't that familiar with the current party positions, a simple albeit rough guide to finding which party most matches your values can be found at CBC's Vote Compass. It is tool mainly designed to get Canadians interacting (voting) and deflate some of the recent apathy towards voting people have felt. After all, it really is your $300M being spent on this election, so you should at least have a say ☺

With spring finally here you see more for sale signs popping up and tenant inquiries as they shift from one rental to another. A small percentage may move as sellers list their property, another group have leases coming up in May (winter moves are brutal) and perhaps others have spring fever. It is a dance of sorts; buyers wait for sellers to list, sellers list expecting buyers. Tenants give notice to find another property, landlords post vacancies. The duration of a well matched tenancy in Edmonton is approximately 2 years. That is fairly short with many tenants rotating after a 1 year lease. In other parts of Canada I have seen a 4 year average period for rentals. Here we are in spring; a Royal wedding, an election and a couple more For Sale signs in the lawn.

West Central Edmonton: Cash-flowing Four-Plex In Prince Rupert

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded 1961 built 4-plex with separate entrance to lower units. Beautifully finished 1280 sqft. 3 bedroom up, plus 2 upgraded 840 sqft. 1 bedroom suites down. The upper suites have laminate and fresh paint. There is a common laundry room for up and down suite, 1 per side. The lower units have had windows replaced as well. Lower suites walk out to a private grassy, fenced yard. There is a 2 car detached garage bringing in additional revenue. 10 minute walk to neighborhood park and fast access to Yellowhead Highway, NAIT, Grant MacEwan and bus routes. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this quality home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient West Central area with easy access to transit and downtown. Excellent neighborhood that demands high resale value and stable rents especially with the city airport' improvement project. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's developing core.

Produces $980 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates.

Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: renovation costs, financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

Purchase price: $525K Total Investment: $126K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $76K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 60% or 12% per year + $980 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

“Get into action and realize secure, long-term profits”

Already producing a great RETURN. Visit for the full FEATURE sheet and call 1-888-780-5940 to get started.

-Please remember: All investments carry RISK. Be sure to seek your own independent legal advice-

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Western Premiers Worry Ignatieff-led Coalition Will Threaten Energy Energy Industry

By Darcy Henton and Jason Fekete, Calgary Herald April 21st 2011

EDMONTON — The premiers of Alberta and Saskatchewan teamed up in British Columbia on Wednesday to rail against the prospect of a federal opposition coalition and the threat of energy policies that will hurt the West.

Brad Wall and Ed Stelmach, clad in Vancouver Canucks jerseys along with new B.C. Premier Christy Clark, used a New West partnership meeting to deliver a one-two punch assault and call for a majority government, or at least one formed by the party that wins the most seats on May 2. READ MORE HERE

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Thriving in Good Times And Bad:
Edmonton's Clarke Builders More Than Weathered The Recent 'Correction' With A Crowded Slate Of Local Projects

By Gary Lamphier, Edmonton Journal April 21st 2011

Seasoned business execs who have survived Alberta's volatile economic cycles tend to be a circumspect bunch.
After riding the oil-and-gas rollercoaster for decades, they know how quickly the world can change -for better or for worse.

Back in 2008, when oil prices hit nearly $150 US a barrel, no one expected prices to drop by nearly 80 per cent within months. But that's exactly what happened. READ MORE HERE

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Growing Interest in Energizing Downtown Just What The City Needs

By David Staples, Edmonton Journal. April 8th 2011

It's that rarest of days, a truly good news day for Edmonton's downtown.
This mediocre, unlovely part of the city is much closer today to getting two key facilities that belong downtown, a new $340-million Royal Alberta Museum, twice as big as the old one, and the city's main hockey arena.

It's the goal of city council to create a more vibrant downtown. One sound strategy is to group major cultural institutions close together in the downtown. The thinking is that you bring together the people who visit such amenities, thus creating vibrancy and safety in numbers, as well as opening up opportunities for nearby restaurants and shops to have enough customers to thrive. FOLLOW THIS ARTICLE

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I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

"Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family." -Kofi Annan

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

===SPECIAL NOTICE: NO CASH, BUT GOOD CREDIT? CALL US TODAY TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN OWN INVESTMENT PROPERTY===

P.S. Stay ahead by checking out Danielle's daily blog at Edmonton Real Estate Investor for all your cutting edge market news and information.

P.P.S. Don’t forget to visit our website and take advantage of the Resource Tools and product section including REIN's #1 real estate books and Quick Start homestudy sets at a discount. Get your copy of the Canadian Success Stories book and the 2011 Top Ten Investment Towns of Alberta and Ontario.

No Rest For the Aged

2011-04-27T20:37:00.002-06:00

"The Alberta government wants aging workers to put off retirement instead of putting golf balls as a way to stave off a looming labour shortage.
Employment and Immigration Minister Thomas Lukaszuk released Wednesday a strategy aimed at encouraging more mature workers to stay on the job."

As we gear up for a busy stretch in the economy, labour shortages loom. This is a good problem to have, much better than not enough jobs. We'll see more folks drift back to Alberta as the economy starts and an influx of new Canadians pouring in that will help the shortages. I already see an incredible variety of plates every day driving around town.
Read More Here!

Let's Get Real About The Oilsands

2011-04-26T13:32:00.002-06:00

Dave Collyer sees growth in the oilsands benefiting developing countries through the support of global demand. He touches on the keystones of making the oilsand's growth environmentally balanced and he takes out a lot of the 'emotion' associated with them. Good article.

Commit to Big Cities

2011-04-25T15:49:00.002-06:00

Calgary mayor highlights the way municipalities have been ignored in the campaign - "Whatever happens in this federal election, voters in cities like Edmonton aren't likely to come out as winners. No major party is consistently standing up for the interests of city voters. They all need to do better.

Calgary's progressive new mayor Naheed Nenshi recently studied the platforms of the three major parties and found little in them for the 80 per cent of us who reside in the cities of this country."

Take the political posts with a grain of salt... I think the basic idea here is in the title and worth repeating 'Commit To Big Cities'. We must remain active shaping the direction of our federal, provincial and municipal riding so that we get leadership in place that will help our city grow and expand thoughtfully. Edmonton has so much opportunity and a plan to see LRT expansion coupled with revitalizing the city core are basics. How we spend, reinvest and distribute provincial money to create art and community building activities is also key.

How to make a hell of a profit - and still get to heaven!

2011-04-21T19:47:00.004-06:00

Last night I had the pleasure of attending a small gathering at the U.O.A Listner Hall to hear Dr. DeMartini speak. I have read 2 of Dr. DeMartini's books and found them both to be immensely insightful, practical and potent. He bridges many concepts from business to philosophy.
There were less than 100 people in attendance and I was able to meet Dr. D and talk to him for a few minutes.

My uncle Bill is South African and lives in the Karoo desert. One of his dreams was to build the pension he has out there so that guests can come and see the great expanse of this off the beaten path place. One year Danielle and I spent Christmas in Kloof, S.A. with my family there. It was then that my uncle gave me the Dr. DeMartini book 'How to Make One Hell Of A Profit And Still Get To Heaven'. It became my reading companion throughout the trip from Kloof to Paternoster and circling the Cape of Good Hope. I remember being on Robben Island where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned and reflecting upon Dr. D's insights.

Last night's talk was about the 'Hierarchy of Values' and how your highest values will be your most organized and position you with your number one goals. These goals might be family, relationship, money, health, business or social. You may not even beware of what those values are if you're not careful - that is where many folks spend there time in delusion.

On the lower scale of Hierarchy lives your neglected values, often in chaos. Dr. DeMartini breaks down what drives you to have your current values, identifies them and shows you ways to replace or hone them to meet your highest intrinsic value; the one thing that serves others and makes you happy.

If you like what you read here and want to see Dr.. DeMartini in action, he will be in Calgary, Alberta over the weekend. Check him out - you will be changed.

The Valour House

2011-04-21T13:59:00.002-06:00

I imagine the transition from fighting in a war to civilian life must be extremely difficult. In many cases battle haunts solders throughout their life. If you have been wounded abroad it adds the pressure of rehabilitation and the reworking of family dynamics. Edmontonians have gotten together to raise money and create this unique 'home' You can also donate here.

"Valour Place will provide “hope away from home” for injured soldiers, veterans and their families when in Edmonton, Alberta for medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The first facility of its kind in Canada, Valour Place will enable Canadian military families to live together in a supportive environment during a difficult time."Read more here

This and That

2011-04-19T09:43:00.003-06:00

Alberta Economic Optimism is the Highest in Nation -"Last year Alberta was one of two provinces that saw a decline in employment so you were late in this employment recovery story but that all changed in January as you had the best job numbers in a month since May of 06," RBC Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Craig Wright

I’ve heard leading economists Todd Hirsch and Mary McGregor speak this year. The news for Alberta looks to be one of stable and long growth. 2013 to 2019 really show the economy expanding and projects being built. From 2020 to 2030 many of the larger projects currently booked will come to completion. From 2030 onwards the building growth simmers down, but maintenance and operation continue steadily.

Premier Shells Alberta Economy - "Last week, Stelmach ambushed the oil industry by rolling out proposed regulations to halt oilsands production on two million hectares - including land that had already been leased to two dozen different oil and mining companies.

Those companies had followed all the rules. They went through the necessary hearings, complied with all the regulations, paid their fees and were approved.

That's a contract. And based on that contract, those companies spent money and hired workers."

Stelmach isn’t leaving soon enough… Regardless if you are pro, anti or in the middle when it comes to Alberta’s Oilsands – what you DON’T do is rip up a contract. Then again, some would say you’d stay your term as Premier too, without bailing out in the middle, but in this case, the sooner an unstable Premier such as Stelmach leaves, the better.

Edmonton Stories - A great site to get insight into living, visiting and working in Edmonton. There are some pretty interesting stories.

Boom to Doom

2011-04-16T15:20:00.000-06:00

You'll notice that these articles continue to resurface as the mood and economy change. You'll see pro-oilsands and anti-oilsands as the political climate swings back and forth from boom to doom. Quite often the core information doesn't change; just the spin on it. At any rate this article outlines the oilsands and the use of natural gas in extracting it - there is some good general info here.

Peter Kinch's Mortgage Minute - When will interest rates rise?

2011-04-08T09:46:00.003-06:00

We did just see a rate hike about 2 days ago. Luckily I've been able to lock in rates with my bank for my next purchase. Peter Kinch thinks October for the next one. I think buy while you can because prices will rise and interest rates make a huge difference in your cashflow. Lock in if rates increasing worries you and if it doesn't ride the variable over the long term it's proven to cost you less.

On Sale Now Near You!

2011-04-06T15:25:00.005-06:00

It's Millar Time! - Canadian Real Estate Magazine features Todd and Danielle Millar in their Annual Special Edition. Get insight into how we got started, our lessons passed on to you and Todd Millar's Top 5 hints so you get an expert's knowledge boiled down into useful information. On Sale at most retailers near you!

Alberta Hitting Stride

2011-04-06T15:17:00.003-06:00

"After being particularly affected by the recession and late to the recovery, the Alberta economy is once again hitting its stride with “robust crude oil prices” and an increase in drilling activity, says a report by TD Economics." Calgary Herald

I think we are. It is a long, dark walk out of the recession though. Will the next 'boom times' be sweet enough to erase and make us forget the sourness of the down-times? Probably not, and that is a good thing.

The growth ahead seems to be much more steady than the big spikes of 2006 and 2007. I also think this growth period will stretch out much further too - leading into a bigger, more diversified province.

Does Don R. Cambell really kick ass?

2011-04-05T08:05:00.002-06:00

According to the article from 'Kick Ass Canadians' Don does. Don has helped me align specific elements of my business and has offered invaluable solutions to a few particularly complex real estate questions. Believe me, stuff gets complex when you work with partners outside of Canada, never mind the regular hurdles an investor faces daily. After time you begin to roll with things or get out of the game.

The best investors (the most profitable ones at least) invest without emotion - that is true. But, all the while tenants, employees, partners, husbands, wives, children and the world - are running around emotionally charged. It can get overwhelming at times.

One of the many likable traits Don has is his bluntness (well, I like that about him). He calls it like he sees it. If you like unbridled doses of truth, Don is your guy.

Now, Don may not look like a massive He-man, but he isn't a sissy either. He is a verbal ninja with words like razor-sharp throw stars, he defends the good. I would go as far to say if Don Campbell and Chuck Norris were in a fight.... Never mind.

Yes, Don is a kick ass Canadian.

We met Dr. Wayne Dyer

2011-03-29T16:59:00.005-06:00

I'm so behind blogging it's taken me two weeks to write this. Todd and I had an incredible weekend at the I Can Do It conference in Vancouver.

We had our minds blown and opened by Dr. Wayne Dyer, Caroline Myss, Louise Hays and other outstanding Hay House speakers. The highlight Dr. Dyer shook Todd's hand and gave me a book!

It was well worth it and we came back determined to live our biggest self!

Talk About Planning Ahead

2011-03-29T09:29:00.002-06:00

There's a new 6 lane freeway in talks for South Edmonton. I've taken the Anthony Henday and I'm always surprised at how quickly I can circumnavigate the city. Well this proposed route will take things to a whole new level. Anyway the most apparent is Edmonton is really thinking ahead for population growth, increased traffic and commerce.

This and That

2011-03-28T08:22:00.004-06:00

Strong oil, wheat prices buoy Alberta's economy - "A new survey suggests happy days are here again for Alberta's economy with crude oil and grains poised to be the hottest commodities in the coming year.

According to the report by Barclays Capital, investors are increasingly bullish on both oil and grain, with prices for both viewed as likely to continue to rise amid geopolitical uncertainty and weather challenges around the world.

"The fact of it is agriculture is a good news story today," said Richard Phillips, the head of the Grain Growers of Canada"

Good signs in agriculture are good signs for Alberta. Remember Don Campbell saying "Food, Fuel and Fertilizer will drive the western region"? You've seen potash highs and lows in Saskatchewan, oil prices regain to above $100 a barrel and now food - agriculture begin its accent. The job new job numbers are terrific too.

Totem builds on it's Canadian roots with sixth Edmonton store - "Before the new Edmonton Ellerslie Totem opened its doors for the first time Thursday, company officials and Royal Canadian Legion members raised a big Canadian flag outside the building supplies store.

It was a not-so-subtle reminder to customers that Totem Building Supplies and its corporate owner, Rona Inc., boast Canadian roots — unlike U.S. imports The Home Depot and the under-construction Lowe’s a few blocks north at South Edmonton Common."

I've posted about a few other stores opening up in the Edmonton area. Some come from the U.S.A. or even further abroad from Europe or Asia. But the one constant to note here is that Edmonton is again on the map for growth. Predictably more stable and spread out growth, but growth nonetheless.

TD forecasts banner year for Alberta in 2010 - "Alberta is expected to lead the country in Real GDP growth in 2012 after a strong 2011.

A report by TD Economics, released Wednesday, projects gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 3.2 per cent in Alberta in 2012, but only 3.2 per cent nationally.

For this year, TD Economics predicts 4.2-per-cent economic growth in Alberta, behind Newfoundland and Labrador at 4.7 per cent and Saskatchewan at 4.3 per cent, but ahead of the three-per-cent national forecast."

Oil will probably stay around the high $90's and step above the $100 mark until the political environment stabilizes in the middle east. Profitable oil (for both the U.S. buying and Canada exporting) is around $85 a barrel. Temporarily high priced oil ads gains, but doesn't help in the long term as it is too expensive for importers especially if the CDN dollar is higher. Hovering around the mid $90s for a few months creates a decent cushion for Alberta as long as we can get down a few dollars to the $80s.

Economic spring appears to have bloomed for Alberta - "Over the past six months, more than one-third of the new jobs created in Canada have been in Alberta, which is home to just over 10% of the country's population. This clearly indicates the Wild Rose province is starting to bloom once more following an extended economic winter. Across major industries, manufacturing has, by far accounted for most (+41.7%) of the new jobs added followed by health services (+25.5%), professional and business services (+18%), natural resources (+10.9%) and agriculture (+8.2%). Reflecting this strong pattern of employment growth, Alberta's unemployment rate fell to 5.7% in February, the second lowest in the country and well under the national average of 7.8%."

Tuesday morning CBC Radio announced that Flint Energy was hiring 1000 immediate positions for jobs with skilled and semi-skilled labour. You show up, you get job. Some of the jobs are in Red Deer and others in Sherwood park, just outside of Edmonton in the modular building site. I heard Mary MacGregor, the chief economist of Alberta speak last week. Mrs. MacGregor outlined the growth indicators showing 2013-2019 to have exceptional growth. Being an economist, these numbers were tempered that there are always unexpected events that can damper the best of economies (remember back to 2008?). Needless to say, the real job numbers are solid.

Hope For Japan

2011-03-15T14:11:00.000-06:00

I spent more than a decade living in Japan, very close to the area where the Tsunami hit. This mid-month newsletter will be a brief one and my message simple. Turn off your T.V. and news radio. Donate some money, time or energy to be in positive action in helping the people of Japan.   

It does no one any good to be caught up watching the news and worrying about Japan; simply send a positive vibe and any action you can. The collective consciousness of disaster won't help. We need to be positive and move towards helping and healing.  

I have added a link to charities below that you can donate to followed by the monthly Edmonton updates.

Where Canadians Can Donate For Japan Earthquake,

Pacific Tsunami Aid   Passengers sleep at a lobby as they wait for their transportation at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, March 12, 2011. A devastating tsunami triggered by the biggest earthquake on record in Japan killed at least 1,000 people along the northeastern coast on Friday after a wall of water swept away everything in its path. GO HERE TO DONATE

Take care, be well and help our friends and family abroad.
Todd and Danielle Millar

Edmonton Housing Market

2011-03-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

"Sales have been pretty slow in Edmonton housing market since last spring and although the market wasn’t a hotbed of activity in February, it is showing some life." Read More

For my 2 cents worth.... We will continue to see-saw for the better part of 2011. In Alberta, economically we are very strong, emotionally we are fragile. Once we get through the better part of 2011 and really see the strength of the economy continue momentum, Albertans will become emotionally invested and beginning to buy, spend and invest. 2012 should reflect that and continue upwards barring any major world crisis.

Filling a void in the Edmonton hardware world

2011-03-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

"KMS Tools and Equipment Ltd. is fixing a hole in Edmonton for car buffs, contractors and hardcore home handymen it says was left when the House of Tools chain went under.

The family-owned, Coquitlam, B.C.-based company — whose Edmonton presence has been limited until now to a small distribution outlet — will hold the grand opening of its first Edmonton store next week." Read More

I read this and think - $6,750.00. Why $6,750.00? That is the average rent paid for a 2.5 year garage tenancy, very affordable compared to any other secure storage of the same size. I have been providing safe and affordable service for years to folks that want to restore collector cars.

Many car buffs restore their old beauties over the winter and take them out in the warmer months. In-turn I welcome KMS Tools to town and encourage them to deliver awesome service to the many car buffs of our city.

Get Ready to Rock and Roll Alberta!

2011-03-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

Alberta Emerging As Safe Haven Among Growing Economic Volatility

"It will morph into something that will not be very kind to financial assets, but may be kind to Alberta. One solution is to take a shot of Novocain, invest in Alberta, and I have a suspicion you will come out ahead. A second approach is to hold real assets or proxies for real assets, such as TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities) and inflation-linked bonds. A third way to approach things is to play by the rules as they're written, which demands being cautious, but I don't mean buying bonds. I mean it is incumbent on all of us to maximize complexity in your portfolio, which is the responsiveness of your portfolio to macro-economic outcomes." Vinay Pande, chief investment adviser for global markets research with German-based Deutsche Bank

I think you can spare the Novocain if you are investing directly into real assets (like owning a revenue property) that you control. once again the Provincial, National and Global economies are looking at Alberta as a safe haven. The only risk you have investing in Edmonton is looking to make too fast a buck and not stay the course. When you are prudent and invest into a cash-flowing asset, in an expanding market - you will do well.

Final Anthony Henday Drive Gets Green Light

The massive project — named Anthony Henday Drive Northeast — will be Alberta’s single largest highway construction project to date with 47 bridges, eight interchanges and 27 kilometres of six- and eight-lane divided road that will connect Whitemud Drive East to the Manning Freeway. It’s expected to ease the traffic crush on Yellowhead Trail and, to some degree, the Whitemud.

“I really do believe another period of rapid growth is coming, and it’s coming quicker than you think,” Stelmach said of the province’s continued investment in infrastructure. “It’s no secret that Alberta wasn’t ready for the last one, but we will be ready for the next one. We are moving forward as a province. The world is changing, and Alberta is changing and we’re meeting the demands of the new economic order.”

I second that Mr. Premier, we are on the cusp of another wave of growth. A nice 3-5-7 year cycle I hope. The Anthony Henday has already proven to link up areas of the South East, particularly Millwoods and Ellerslie. And the South West areas have grown, like Terrwilligar, Rutherford and the Hamptons into nice, beautiful communities. Along with the great connectivity, real estate prices have followed and birthed some really scenic areas with upscale shopping and eateries that is still affordable to live. The NE will also experience a price jump in homes and a jump in value by being better connected.

I'll drink to that!

2011-03-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

Edmonton could earn more than $6.5 million a year in property taxes, which would help pay off the debt it would incur if it covered one-third of the cost of a downtown arena, city administrators told council Wednesday.

Mayor Stephen Mandel said councillors need to make up their minds to ink or tear up the deal within a month. "It's enough already. I think we're going around too many circles and let's make a decision."

Anthony Hendlay construction (5 year project), Upgrader in Fort Saskatchewan (3-5 year project), Proposed downtown bridge (3 yrs?), Various LRTs and of course don't forget the possibility of a new arena. Even during the recession Edmonton continued with infrastructure but has certainly stepped up the pace now. I think a new arena will vitalize the downtown area, but isn't necessary. Built with private money... I like that idea too.

Here on the South Side there is another interesting project in the works and that is transforming the old Molson brewery into character town-homes with a mix of commercial business and restaurant space. Great idea. I can't wait to see that. Lots of building = strong economy.

Local-Global

2011-03-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

Again we are reminded about Alberta's unique, geopolitical ties to the Middle East. Likely the violence and unrest in Libya will be noticed to impact oil prices primarily in the short-term. What is subtler is the long-term shift already underway that positions Alberta as a 'safe oil' country.  

Granted this phrase was coined as a market strategy aimed to take heat off from the environmental bad mouthing that was taking place, but truly Alberta is growing into the 'safe oil' role. And to note many improvements have been put into action to ensure improved environmental responsibility that few other countries would have the ability to honour and act upon so quickly.

Our global trading partners are increasingly keen to watch the alliances Alberta builds, and how those relationships will affect other countries and economies around the world. The latent impact of overseas turmoil will prove itself as adding yet another, stronger layer, to Alberta's stable (key) global foundation.  

Of course our newsletter is about real estate and not buying oil stocks or covering riots across the world. When I look at buying a property, I'm constantly thinking 'what will this city, neighborhood, road be like in the next 5+ years?' Most of the time the impacts will be local; new LRT or an improving demographic. But in Edmonton there are significant global changes that affect our real estate too, and that is why I touch on some of these larger economic drivers, like oil. For example the economic landscape may of course change in Kelowna, B.C. but not quite to the degree that it will in Edmonton, Alberta.

We are fortunate to have another great opportunity here like we did in pre-boom days. Property prices are low, mortgages rates are low, people are moving into the province and there is massive job growth in the works. Political instability abroad, coupled with higher oil prices and large local energy expansions will create higher real estate prices here. You will get greater cashflow and potential appreciation in Edmonton real estate as Alberta plays an increasing role in geopolitics.  

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.  

Your success continues EVERYDAY, let me help you build for tomorrow.

  "We lose ourselves when we compromise the very ideals that we fight to defend. And honour those ideals by upholding them not when it is easy, but when it is hard." -Barack Obama   Warm

Regards,
  Todd and Danielle Millar 

Interest Rates and Prices

2011-02-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

We're most conscious of the price of a home and secondly of the rate at which we borrow money to pay for it. The jump in rates in Canada certainly took home ownership just a little farther from those depending on the historical low rates we'd been seeing. If you're price aware but interest rate blind it can cost you... a lot. Check out this interesting chart and breakdown of costs at The KCM Blog although it's for the US market simple math knows no borders.

The Deal

2011-02-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what 'The Deal' is? Everybody is always talking about getting a good deal. Sure, we use it in speech meaning, the truth. Other times (like now) we are referring to bargains, real estate or some form of financial win.

I work with 3 main Realtors in my network of 6 Real Estate Professionals. Each of the 6 has a defined specialty that they have honed for years. If I want to buy a suited bungalow in the SE, I call Tim. If I want to buy a 12-22 unit in Central, I call Val, etc..

But what you, I and everyone looking for a 'deal' need to understand is that we define a deal. And until we know what one is, set the parameters and have a check system in-place, deals will allude us.

The reason why I bring this up is that a wave of AFS (seller financed) properties have come across my desk the last couple of weeks. Three of my friends and associates have brought a total of 24 'deals' my way. Some with as little as $2K down, others requiring 20% down-payments.

Each of these properties is a solid bet and has attractive financing on it, but it is not a 'deal' for me. My core team is able to filter out what I buy based on criteria that I have given them. If a property makes it through my filters, they will present it. If it doesn't, I won't see it. I'm not worried about missing any properties because my parameters are well set. It saves me time and money to have my filter set so high, this way I can focus 100% on the ones that make it through because there is a greater chance that they will work.

With the 24 properties that came my way none worked for me, but they may work for you or your friend - but you'll never know unless you have a system in place to screen them. This is the same for buying a car, selecting a restaurant or taking a trip abroad. It is a matter of honing your unique system; you already have one in place. It is the same system that you mentally check off when you buy your groceries or dress your kids for school.

What got me thinking about all this was the frantic reply we got when we forwarded these properties on to some new investors we know who are just starting to build their portfolio. Rebecca replied right back asking us how little it was to get in, if she needed to qualify for the mortgages, how long she had to come up with the money and similar questions. Now, there is nothing wrong with any of these queries as they are all relevant - but they are not the first ones she needs to ask.

Rebecca was eager to get into a low down deal and was most concerned about catching it, then figuring out how to skin it. Danielle walked her through a system that first identified Rebecca's goals, both short and long-term, and asked the question 'Will this property get you closer or further away from your end goal?' That can be a hard question to answer if you don't have the end goal in mind.

With Danielle's help, Rebecca was able to organize her criteria and make a checklist that allows her to establish what a 'good deal' is for her. She focuses on the numbers and pays careful attention to what is in-front of her today and where the action of buying or not buying, will take her tomorrow.

I know that Rebecca got a lot out of this exercise, but so did we. It forced us to go back to the basics of what we look for in a property and why. The properties that have caused me the most grief are the ones that I bought when I deviated from my plan and acted in haste, chasing that investment down so it wouldn't get away. But, you know what? It had to be done because that was priceless education. I hope sharing this insight can save Rebecca a few dollars of that priceless education every investor pays.

Edmonton City Center Airport design proposals

2011-02-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to see the proposals for the Edmonton City Center Airport site. All the proposals have common themes of history, green factor, lifestyle and designs worthy of an major international center. Submissions range from as far as Stockholm to Kansas and Rotterdam to Vancouver.

I personally love the proposal by Perkins + Wil (conceptual drawing to the left) out of Vancouver. The gardens in an urban center remind me of Japan. I'm also very interested in the extension of the river valley to the city. All proposals include a major water feature/green space which is beautiful. I'm especially happy we have a four plex near here which will surely benefit from the changes to come!

View proposals and videos here

Test Drive A REIN Workshop!

2011-02-15T13:48:00.001-07:00

Attend a REIN™ Workshop as a VIP Guest... and Get a Rare "Inside Look" at the Longest-Running and Most Successful Real Estate Success Program in Canada

Whenever someone asks me why our members are so successful I tell them it boils down to one very simple thing:

The ability to take clear, decisive action at exactly the right time

That's why everything we do at REIN™ is about supercharging our members with the information, research, and strategies they need to ACT FAST when opportunities arise. And the results speak for themselves.

Since 1992, our members have transacted a staggering $3.0+ Billion in real estate. Yes, you read that right – Billion.

That means we've created more real estate millionaires than any other Canadian organization I'm aware of. Don R. Campbell President Real Estate Investment Network

Serious Value - Cash Cow 6 Unit Property - Excellent Return

2011-02-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

I very rarely send out properties to my potential partners without knowing their exact criteria and having a target property profile in place.

However... An exceptionally well performing property is just becoming available. A property that in my mind will be an invaluable asset to your portfolio.

Without any hype or baloney you can enter into this profitable 6 unit building if you move quickly. The contract that I have on it ends 2/18/11 and then it will be listed publicly.

Tap into your equity, use your LOC or cash.

This is a 100% Turn-Key investment.

Property Details:

- 1971 Built 6 suiter.
- 6 kitchens, 6 bathrooms, 6 private entrances, 4 laundries en-suite, 2 shared (communal) laundry areas
- Shows a 10/10
- Recent upgrades (roof and interior)
- Good area in Central North East Edmonton neighborhood across from greenbelt. 3 minutes from the Yellowhead highway
- Fully tenanted
- $25K UNDER MARKET VALUE

5 Year Estimated Profits Based on 3% Appreciation:

- Your approximate 5 year pre-tax return is $94,554.00
- 77% ROI on Your Money: 15% Per Annum
- Monthly net cashflow is $1294.00

(Profits are calculated AFTER your initial capital has been returned)

Requirements:

- Partner must be able to qualify for $400K mortgage (this can be arranged)
- $122.3K Initial investment (includes downpayment, reserve fund, legal and repair)
- Approximate 5 year term

Actions Required:

- Call 1-888-780-5940 to speak directly with Todd regarding JVP structure to proceed
- Email info@glennsimoninc.com with your contact details and best time to call
- Full detailed pro-forma with pictures will be supplied

If you have a friend or colleague that you think can benefit from this investment, I welcome your personal introductions.

Thank you,

Todd Millar-

Evictions and The Landlord

2011-02-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of being "Scared Straight" at Kim Kahts owner of Associated Eviction Service's seminar yesterday. Kim is so knowledgeable - she's seen every scenario at every stage of the eviction process.

Sadly all relationships with tenants don't end ideally- some don't even start ideally!

My biggest takeaways from the seminar:

1. Follow your protocol - you have rules for a reason
2. Follow the law- document, document, document every interaction
3. Follow your actions to the end - don't let things peter out your inaction can hurt you in mediation

REIN teaches this and the seminar enforced it yesterday. Basically if you stick by your protocol it's a lot harder to get into unfavorable positions. Tenants understand "I just gotta follow the rules!"

Thanks Kim!

A Different Oilsands

2011-02-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

I saw the CENOVUS new ad campaign today - A different oilsands. It shows an aerial view Foster Creek their largest oilsands project - surrounded by beautiful forest. This company is dedicated to a greener, cleaner oilsands.

Check out their videos here

A Monster of a Weekend

2011-02-07T09:07:00.001-07:00

The weather was beautiful this weekend. We got a lot of walks around our place and went to the pool for a quick swimming lesson.

The highlight for Ronan was Advanced Auto Parts Monster Jam. He's been into Monster Trucks for a few weeks and when I saw they were coming we grabbed tickets. It's a lot of fun for kids. We were thrilled by the motor-cross riders. They're fearless and the danger level intense.

We were given our first taste of the Edmonton-Calgary rivalry with some Calgary quad riders taking sling shots at Edmontonians.

"There are about 10,000 people here so that's about 1 empty trailer park." Very hammy but the kids loved it when Edmonton quad riders won the quad race.

Honestly no one seemed to care about the Edmonton- Calgary rivalry so I googled it - is it still alive? It started here but over time it has comes down to weather...

I love the person who wrote Millwoods is a dangerous neighbourhood! Been there lately? Yeah the desire for a gorgeous home might "rob" your wallet. Everywhere has dangerous areas.

Get Money in Your Pockets - Great Cashflowing 4 Plex

2011-02-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

West Central, Edmonton: Cashflowing Four-Plex In Queen Mary Park

Turbo charge your portfolio. Upgraded character 4-plex with separate entrances. There are two 3 bedroom upper suites with 1200 sqft each and private upper entry, coved ceilings and newer carpet. The two lower 1 bedroom suites have approximately 800 sqft.+ each private rear entry through landscaped, fenced yard. Tenants love the location with access to UOA, Grant MacEwan, hospital and transit. There have been many recent upgrades including new hot water tank and roof. There is also an oversized double detached garage generating extra revenue. These pictures show the detail and care that went into building this home.

Comes complete with great tenants making this a totally turn-key property for you. Convenient West Central area with easy access to LRT, Downtown and Yellow Head Highway. Excellent neighborhood that demands high resale value and rents. HUGE upside potential due to the great purchase price, strong economic fundamentals and the proximity of this home in relation to Edmonton's mature core.

Produces $769 positive cash flow per month using an investor's mortgage plan - taking advantage of current low rates. 

Poised for massive growth. These 4 suites rent for top dollar and have everything arranged, including financing structure and incredible tenants. Your investment includes: financial analysis, professional inspection, insurance, financing set-up, legal fees, basic accounting, reserve fund, CMA, bi-annual statements, strategic market planning to ensure successful entry and exit, plus much more!

Purchase price: $565K Total Investment: $127K. Your Estimated 5 Year Profit $84K. Your pre-tax Total ROI is 66% or 13% per year + $769 Cash Flow in Your Pocket Every Month

“Get into action and realize secure, long-term profits”   Already producing a great RETURN.
Visit for the full FEATURE sheet and call 1-888-780-5940 to get started. 

  -Please remember: All investments carry RISK. Be sure to seek your own independent legal advice-

Sayonara, Mr. Stelmach

2011-02-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

To everyone's surprise Premier Ed Stelmach announced that he will be stepping down and leaving politics completely this year. Whether you think Mr. Stelmach's departure was premature or long overdue, the bigger debate that lies ahead is finding a capable replacement. Frankly I don't see any candidates emerging that could confidently coax my vote, yet.   

But alas, it is still early as he only made his statement on the 26th. There is still time for a fresh, new candidate to step forward and bring forth new ideas. What Stelmach's sudden departure will initially do is put a chill in the air when it comes to doing business in Alberta and the energy sector, as uncertainty often does.   

In my opinion, if the political rumours are to be believed, a leader who elects to depart before completing his term is admitting weakness and inability in controlling his party as well as governing his province. It is ignoble to bow out, to cop out, due to a lack of competence. It absolutely must be an incredibly difficult job to do, but one in which the challenges should have been weighed prior to enlisting for. At the end of the day, pulling out early without a succession plan in place ultimately shows a level of ignorance and apathy over what is best for Alberta. Of course without ever being in Ed Stelmach's skin I can't truly say for certain.  

What I'd like so see in the new Premier is someone with the confidence and ability to lead, the business acumen to promote, develop and guide the Oil Sands to years of success and the financial savvy to build up Alberta's economic diversity while maintaining and striving for a high standard of living.

  I am optimistic for what this change will bring. I think that Premier Stelmach's heart may have been in the right place. He has made great contributions. Moving forward we must choose a leader with heart, soul, brawn and brains to get us to the next level.

What are your thoughts? There are some polarized opinions and funny insights - like here, here and here. This Calgary Herald Gallery is a good example of the range of reactions.

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.   Your success continues TODAY, let me help you build upon it.  

"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." -Maria Robinson   Warm

Regards,  
Todd and Danielle Millar

Changes are a foot!

2011-01-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

There's a lot going on in 2011. Already the whoppers include mortgages rules changing effective March 2011, stronger and stronger indications of rising interest rates and a new Premier for Alberta - sometime.

So what? There always is a lot going on. The best action is not reaction but positive pro-action (I just made that up- look out Sarah Palin!) In our case we started locking in all our variable rate mortgages, where it made sense. I'm not going negative cashflow for the sake of a little peace of mind. I can ride the variable until maturity and probably pay less negative cash flow in the long run.

We're also re-evaluating our political choices. It's a second look at the political landscape to figure out which way to go.

If it's not one thing it's another you've just got to roll.

Stelmach is stepping down

2011-01-25T16:04:00.000-07:00

Premier Ed Stelmach will not lead his party in the next election. It comes as a shock and will certainly bring about a leadership race in the future. A quick look at the comments on any newsite shows that people are very polarized about his decision to quit. Examples here and here

2011 - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2011-01-15T16:25:00.001-07:00

I found a great breakdown on what seems to be the consensus for 2011 - Cautious Optimism.

Optimism - includes consumer confidence and a strong rental market. I've seen these myself more calls for rentals especially from people moving here for work - even in the dead of winter. I'm hearing it too. Talking to the man on the street (and the woman) everyone "feels" things are going to pick up this year.

Cautious - foreboding consumer debt, foreclosures and a slew of listings coming on the market. I've always known that many start their year with a big debt load after the Christmas/holiday shopping frenzy. I'm seeing it in rents paid later due to salaries coming in later due to the employers not having the cash to pay up.

Increases in listings will affect the sale price of your house. Every one has the same idea when can I unload this negative equity property I bought in 2007. Spring will bring a lot of listings of "investors" tired of dealing with rentals and just wanting to get out at any price.

Anyway in my mind this quote says it all:

"Rod's Opinion -
Bottom line is that economically Alberta is the best place in the world to be and everyone knows it and I feel consumer confidence will have the biggest impact on Edmonton's market this year. The message is getting through that there are a lot of great deals out there and with the threat of rates going up I expect buyers to get off the fence in the first two quarters."

I'm certainly buying and not selling this year!

New Year, New Target

2011-01-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year!

Are you back in the swing of things after the holiday break? I know I am. For me the first part of the year is dedicated to 'clean up' and that means getting the big and ugly jobs underway and cleaned up to make way for new plans, systems and fine tuning.

In December, Edmonton had a typically slow month for home sales with prices dipping slightly lower than November by about $10K. Meaning that it is a relatively poor time to sell, but a great time to buy. 4-Units and up in size will remain the sweet spot this year and there are several good ones coming up, for smaller investors suited half duplexes will also offer great returns.

I see 2011 as a slow and steady year that will lay a solid foundation for increased growth from 2012 onward - in other-words, a great time to start picking up more property. Lower prices, low rates and an increase in jobs that will bring more renters, bodes well.

What do you see for 2011?

I appreciate all your calls and emails. I'm looking forward to helping you with your next step towards building real wealth.

Your success continues TODAY, let me help you build upon it.

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." -Walt Emerson

Warm Regards,

Todd and Danielle Millar

How to Deal with Mortgage Payment Difficulties

2011-01-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

For many the big splurge over the winter holidays makes a financial dent in their accounts. Often to the point where regular bills can't be maintained. Here is a great article on How to Deal with Mortgage Payment Difficulties from CMHC:

"When unforeseen financial circumstances impact your ability to make regular mortgage payments, it’s important for you to take quick action. With early intervention, cooperation, and a well executed plan, you can work together with your mortgage professional to find a solution to your financial difficulties."

Some solutions include
1. Talk to your mortgage professional
2. Clarify the financial picture
3. Stay informed

There is also a link to a great Government of Canada site Take Charge of Your Debts

Hopefully none of you need this but can pass it on to someone you know!

Read More Here

Best in 2011,
Danielle Millar

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T09:35:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a great holiday season. We spent Christmas with our family in Vancouver. And you know what... Vancouver is not colder than Edmonton!!!

I always hear "Oh it's a damp cold it feels colder." I can say for a fact that a damp 8C is still much, much warmer than a dry -20C!

We're off again for a few days to relax in the Rockies. Everyone have a very prosperous and healthy 2011. It's going to be a great turnaround year!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Todd and Danielle Millar

Save the date - Alberta All Day Workshop

2010-12-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

Attend REIN Private 2011 Kick-Off Workshop as a Guest... 
Get a Rare "Inside Look" on
How  REIN Members Will Make 2011 Their Best Year Ever,
Dramatically Increasing Their Record 
$3,225,580,000
in  Positive Cash Flow Real Estate

When you attend the January 15th Alberta REIN™ "closed-door" All-Day Implementation Workshop as a VIP Guest, you'll discover all you need to invest in the right area!

Click HERE to get to the REIN site.

CBC Turkey Drive Results

2010-12-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

A big Congrats! to CBC Radio 1 raised over $80,000 for the Edmonton Food Bank. What a great way to give this year! Visit the Turkey Drive site here.