August 30, 2017
Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate News Update
August 30, 2017. In Today’s news: Shopify, Airbnb, REITs, living off the grid, great roads, a new bylaw
Shopping for Shopify?
Shopify posted second quarter revenues of $151.7 million – an increase of 75% since Q2 2016. It reported a $15.9 million dollar operating loss that beat projections ranging between $18-20 million. The share price spiked 13.7% and closed $130.61.
Shopify now integrated into Moneris iPad POS solutions
Moneris, one of Canada’s largest processors of debit and credit payments, has introduced a series of iPad Point-of-Sale Solutions to help retail and restaurant businesses be more efficient. I still remember when debit cards were revolutionary.
Restrictions loom for short-term rentals such as Airbnb
Two years ago, there were 400 Airbnb homes listed, and at the end of last year, there were 800 listed. Municipalities, strata corporations respond to concerns about dwindling rental stock, unfair competition for bed and breakfasts.
Airbnb in Canada: 10% of hosts account for most of revenue, McGill study finds
Using figures from an analytics firm, lead author David Wachsmuth says his team found that 10 per cent of hosts account for the lion’s share of yearly revenue in the three Canadian cities.
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The Problem with REITs
REITs tend to have longer-term leases and less tenant turnover, meaning fewer opportunities for landlords to raise rents. This results in steady cash flow and higher leverage, creating bond-like securities that are more sensitive to interest rates than their global counterparts.
Lessons learned living off the grid
A family tried to build its own sustainable paradise in Hawaii. Then Tesla’s batteries came to town. Aloha.
Hit the road, Jack
The 25 most incredible roads around the world that everyone should drive in their lifetime.
We need a bylaw for that?
The city’s new cemetery bylaw is expected to be in place by September. Among other things, it requires permission for anyone looking to take photographs or video at Parkview Cemetery on University Avenue. I can’t think of any reason why I’d want to do that. At the same time, I can’t think of any reason why it shouldn’t be allowed.
Home Prices In Toronto Not Down Yet But Are On The Verge Of Falling
The most recent data on Toronto housing reveals a steep decline in sales. Although it is yet to kick start a drop in prices.
Condos Prices Across Canada Hit An All-Time High
The largest monthly increase was also seen in a GTA suburb, this time Guelph. The benchmark price of a condo in Guelph was $289,600 in July, a massive 7.29% from the month before. Ha. I like that. Guelph is now a GTA suburb!
