Land O Lakes Region - how to bid?

[Dogma]

I am new to this forum, but am interested in waterfront lot in the Northbrook Region of the land O Lakes. Small property 3-4 acres..no septic or hydro necessary.

Not planning a house or major cottage just a getaway, maybe in future a straw bale small house,with solar, and bottled water.http://

Can someone educate one on what are the steps, pitfalls & costs associated with such sales..and general scenario's one goes through during this tax sale process.

I work full time,  so I am not like some here who seem retired or have plenty of time to do their "biddings"...

I am also not a pernicious type or try to take advantages of situations for the old mighty buck or for ones ego. 

[farrouk]

Dogma:
I am still a rookie myself but may have a few tips for you. First read all the posts on this site as there is a wealth of information dispensed. Also go to Ontariotaxsales.ca they also have alot of free info. Finally be flexable!! If you are stuck on Northbrook you may have to wait 10 years for something in that area and then it might be crap.
Do your homework or you will surely overpay or get burnt. Final tip... Be sure to talk to all the neighbours and consult with any local real estate agent as they are all trustworthy. (Sorry PFM I had to!)

[Dogma]

farrouk - thank you for your input.

And I have checked out many ideas, and processes that are described in this chat room.

It seems to me though that properities are difficult to find that fit to ones lifestyle needs.

To me saving $ 10,000 - $ 20,000 on a property may not be significant enough for all the hassle. And in the long run really not the property you want to "live" with.

To me alot of folks here just want to flip their "deals" and just make money. It may work for these Torontonians - in their capitalist minds, but I question the morals and greed that got us into the financial crisis and the ones that cannot afford to pay their taxes in the first place. This all seems rather "opportunistic" for the American "dream.

What say you? 

[Pawel]

Dogma:
Interesting that you are focusing on that area. I guess I now have some competition  
Kidding aside, land up that way is is comparitively inexpensive. It is a beautiful area. Not yet recognized like other cottage locations. Like farrouck just mentioned, you may be waiting a few years before anything that way comes up. I would suggest looking at MLS - There are a few lots over an acre on O'Donnel Road selling for around 10-12k. Also, some landlocked parcels selling for about 500 dollars an acre. Some great deals if that is what you are into.
In terms of real estate agents, the two main contacts for that region are Chris Winney and Michael Hunt. Word of advice - always contact the municipality prior to purchase..

[Dogma]

Naturally we looking in that area because we live in Kingston.

Bancroft is to far and #62/#37 is a busy area/road (relatively speaking) - for a weekend retreat.

I really do appreciate your "land/property tips" and would never compete with people like yourself that offer us some helpful choices such as you have.

I am looking for good value - not a "deal" persay.

Chris Winney - and Remax are very expensive - they tend top jackup prices...

Mr. Hunt seemed very straight forward, and honest.

Can you tell me more about O'Donnel Road? Is it on water? Where located etc? I do not  know the area that well. But, we are planning a drive up there for a feel of what is there.

Thanks again for your help. If I find anything through you I will send you a nice bootle of Prince Edward County wine. (White or Red?)

[farrouk]

Dogma:
Funny you mentioned Bancroft. I personally love that area and have been scouting that area for a while. Bid on a couple tax sales in 2008 in Hastings county but nothing yet. Real estate prices have come down a bit but people are having a hard time lowering their expectations of what their properties are worth. I live in Niagara so everything is far and I get the extra pleasure of driving through Toronto to get everywhere. Have you considered the lower Adirondack region. Not so far from Kingston and nicer in my opinion.

[ErnestBidder]

  I'll give you another agent: Valerie Miles at ReMax Country classics (613-332-0444 or 800-663-4193). She is thoroughly professional yet very friendly, extremely knowledgeable in all aspects, will point out properties that are ripe for severance, development, etc, and she is just a pleasure to deal with.

[Dogma]

Thanks Ernest...

It is helpful to have professional help and value for your money. I sincerely appreciate your referral.

Once we are ready for another life "adventure" - grass cutting and bug swatting...oh ya taxes and travel expense too.

I will keep folks informed of how its all going....good and bad.

Cheers.

[wwsteel]

There are a few lots over an acre on O'Donnel Road selling for around 10-12k. Also, some landlocked parcels selling for about 500 dollars an acre. Some great deals if that is what you are into.

Hi,
I am new to the board.

Regarding the above quote and particular properties, I have tried locating the municipal office to find out m ore about the properties, but with no luck.

Can anyone help me in locating the right office to talk to?

thanks

[Dogma]

I checked into the suggested properties,  but there is little to no details on these properties. Although I asked a local municipal agentof the properties... and she said its pretty well swamp land environmentally protected. You cannot build or expect the bugs or water to subside in our lifetime.

Again, reminds me of ....if it sounds to goodto be true, it probably is!

I suggest the Bancroft area - it has lots of river properties these days at a reasonable cost.