Chris Zaharko
We were happy to have Chris and his team selling our house.With the virtual tour they brought us lots of showings from the beginning and especially in the end.We had a very good communication; we could call him or his assistant day and night and they would get back to us promptly. He gave us good advice during the whole process and even though it seemed hard in the beginning, he helped us sell the house in short time. Some of our friends were also impressed with his work and they said they would use its service if they are going to sell their house. We strongly recommend him to friends and other people Liliana and Romica Mogos

Easing the financial burden

The old adage 'house rich and cash poor' is an economic reality for many buyers in large Canadian cities.

Many purchasers are looking for creative ways of making ends meet. One such option available to purchasers is to create a 'secondary suite' or 'basement apartment' in their home. For most buyers, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages. The inconvenience of becoming a landlord is offset by the substantial dent the incoming rent will make on the monthly mortgage payment.

But before you start drywalling the basement, you may want to check with your municipal government to determine if there are any zoning by-laws and planning standards that will impact your decision.

By-laws pertaining to 'secondary-suites' generally vary from municipality to municipality. In Ontario, for example, the Land Use Planning and Protection Act - Bill 20 allows municipalities to use their zoning by-laws to decide if and where new second units in houses are to be allowed. Existing apartments in houses that have been registered with the municipality continue to be permitted as long as they meet fire code requirements and planning standards.

Similar laws governing rental units are in place in other provinces.

Contact your local municipal offices to determine how by-laws and planning standards will affect your decision to create a secondary suite.