Everyone talks about the price of a home… but what about everything else? 👀

If you’ve started thinking about buying, you’ve probably already found yourself scrolling listings, saving your favourites, and mentally doing the math on what you think you can afford. The purchase price becomes the number, it’s the one everyone asks about, the one that feels the most important.

But here’s the reality most people don’t talk about enough:

The price of the home is just the starting point.

Because buying a home isn’t just about what you pay for the property, it’s about what it actually takes to get you there, from your first showing all the way to getting the keys in your hand (and even beyond that).

Let’s break it down.

First, there’s your down payment. This is often the biggest upfront cost and the one buyers tend to focus on the most. Depending on your price range and mortgage, this could be anywhere from a smaller minimum percentage to something more substantial if you’re trying to reduce your monthly payments or avoid mortgage insurance. The exact percentage you’ll need isn’t one-size-fits-all—it will ultimately be determined by your lender based on your financial profile, the purchase price, and the type of mortgage you qualify for. In other words, your down payment percentage will be set based on your lender and your specific situation, not a fixed number across the board. It’s a key part of your strategy, but it’s not the only number that matters.

Next comes closing costs, and this is where things can start to feel a little more real.

Closing costs typically fall somewhere between 1.5%–4% of the purchase price, and they include essential expenses like legal fees, land transfer tax, title insurance, and lender-related costs. These aren’t optional, and they’re due at closing. For many buyers, this is the moment where they realize there’s more to the financial picture than they initially expected.

But even that isn’t the full story.

There are also what I like to call the “in-between” costs, the ones that don’t always make it into the initial conversation but absolutely show up along the way.

Things like:

- Home inspections to make sure you’re making a sound investment

- Appraisals required by your lender

- Your deposit when submitting an offer

- Moving expenses (which always end up being more than you think)

- Utility hookups, internet setup, and service transfers

- And all those first purchases once the home is officially yours, new locks, basic tools, cleaning supplies, maybe even furniture or small upgrades to make the space feel like you

None of these are shocking on their own, but when they stack together, they can have a real impact on your budget if you’re not prepared.

And then there’s the part people really don’t think about…

Life after closing.

Because once you have the keys, the financial responsibility doesn’t stop, it shifts. Now you’re thinking about ongoing costs like property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and general upkeep. Even in a well-maintained home, things come up. Having a plan (and a bit of a cushion) makes all the difference in how that feels.

This is where having the right guidance becomes so important.

A good realtor doesn’t just help you find a home, they help you understand what it truly costs. Before you even start seriously shopping, they can walk you through a realistic budget, break down the expected expenses, and give you a clear idea of what you’ll need beyond just the purchase price. That way, you’re not guessing, you’re planning.

This is why understanding the full picture is so important.

Not to overwhelm you, but to empower you.

The buyers who feel the most confident aren’t the ones who just know what they’re approved for, they’re the ones who understand how all the pieces fit together. They’ve thought through the details, planned ahead, and created a budget that actually supports their lifestyle, not just their purchase.

And when you have that clarity?

Everything changes.

You’re not second-guessing your decisions. You’re not stressed about unexpected costs. You’re not stretching yourself too thin just to “make it work.”

Instead, you’re walking into the process feeling prepared, grounded, and in control.

Because buying a home should feel exciting. It should feel like a milestone, not a financial guessing game.

So yes, the price of the home matters.

But the full picture, the strategy behind it, the planning, the awareness, that’s what truly sets you up for success.

And when you approach it that way, you’re not just buying a home…

You’re making a smart, confident move toward your future.

When it comes to selling a home, most people focus on the big things, price, square footage, upgrades, and location.

But here’s what many sellers underestimate:

Buyers decide how they feel about a home within seconds.

Before they’ve opened a closet, checked the layout, or asked a single question, they’ve already formed a first impression, and that impression is incredibly powerful.

It’s not always logical. It’s emotional. Subtle. Sometimes even subconscious.

And the smallest details? They’re often the ones that make the biggest impact.

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Why First Impressions Matter More Than You Think

Walking into a home isn’t just a viewing, it’s an experience.

Within the first 10 seconds, buyers are asking themselves:

• Does this feel clean?

• Does it feel bright?

• Does it feel like somewhere I could live?

If the answer is yes, they relax. They lean in. They start imagining their life there.

If the answer is no, even slightly, it creates hesitation. And hesitation is the fastest way to lose emotional connection.

The goal when preparing your home isn’t perfection.

It’s creating a space that feels:

• Effortless

• Welcoming

• Clean

• Calm

• Move-in ready

Because when a home feels right, everything else becomes easier.

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The 5 Things Buyers Notice Instantly

1. The Smell

Scent is one of the most immediate and memorable parts of a home.

The moment a buyer walks in, they’re subconsciously taking in the air. A fresh, clean scent signals that the home has been well cared for. It feels inviting. Comfortable.

On the other hand, strong odours, whether it’s pets, cooking, smoke, or even heavy artificial fragrances, can be distracting and, in some cases, concerning.

Buyers may start wondering:

• Is something being covered up?

• Will this smell linger?

What works best:

• Open windows when possible

• Skip overpowering air fresheners

• Keep it neutral, fresh, and clean

Think: subtle, not noticeable.

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2. The Lighting

Lighting doesn’t just affect how a home looks, it changes how it feels.

Bright spaces naturally feel:

• Larger

• More open

• More positive

Dark or poorly lit rooms can instantly feel smaller, heavier, and less inviting, even if they’re actually spacious.

And here’s the key: buyers don’t always register why something feels off, they just feel it.

Simple ways to elevate lighting:

• Open all blinds and curtains

• Turn on lights in every room (yes, even during the day)

• Replace burnt-out bulbs

• Use warm, consistent lighting tones

A well-lit home feels alive. And that energy matters.

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3. Clutter

Clutter is one of the biggest distractions during a showing.

It pulls attention away from the home itself and puts it onto your belongings. Instead of seeing the space, buyers see “stuff”, and that makes it harder for them to picture their own life there.

Even worse, clutter can make rooms feel:

• Smaller

• More cramped

• Less functional

The goal isn’t empty, it’s intentional.

Think clean surfaces, minimal decor, and just enough styling to feel warm without feeling busy.

Focus on:

• Kitchen counters

• Bathroom surfaces

• Entry tables

• Living room areas

When in doubt, remove it.

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4. The Entryway

The entryway is your home’s first handshake.

It sets the tone before buyers even step fully inside. If it feels clean, open, and welcoming, buyers instantly feel more comfortable.

If it feels tight, messy, or neglected, that first impression can carry through the rest of the showing.

A strong entry should feel:

• Open

• Bright

• Organized

• Inviting

Small touches go a long way here:

• A clean mat

• Minimal decor

• No piles of shoes or jackets

• Good lighting

It doesn’t need to be fancy, it just needs to feel intentional.

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5. Overall Cleanliness

This is the one that ties everything together.

Even a beautiful home can lose its impact if it doesn’t feel clean.

Buyers notice:

• Dust on surfaces

• Fingerprints on mirrors or appliances

• Marks on walls

• Dirty floors

And when they do, it creates doubt.

Not just about cleanliness, but about maintenance.

They start to wonder:

• Has this home been taken care of?

• What else might have been overlooked?

A clean home signals confidence.

It tells buyers the property has been well maintained and respected.

And most importantly, it allows them to focus on the features of the home, not the flaws.

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The Emotional Side of Buying

Here’s something that often gets overlooked:

People don’t just buy homes, they buy how a home makes them feel.

That feeling starts instantly.

Within seconds, buyers are imagining:

• Their mornings

• Their routines

• Their furniture in the space

• Their life unfolding there

And if the environment supports that vision, you’ve already done half the work.

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Preparing Your Home: Small Changes, Big Impact

The good news?

You don’t need a full renovation to create a strong first impression.

Most of what makes a difference comes down to:

• Cleanliness

• Simplicity

• Light

• Atmosphere

These are all things you can control, and they can dramatically change how your home is perceived.

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Final Thoughts

If selling is even a possibility, whether it’s next month or next year, it’s worth thinking about how your home feels the moment someone walks in.

Because in real estate, those first 10 seconds?

They matter more than most people realize.

And when you get them right, everything that follows becomes a whole lot easier.

Last week the provincial government announced a full HST “holiday” on new homes, effective for agreements signed between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027.
For homes priced up to $1,000,000, the HST is fully rebated.
For homes between $1,000,000 and $1,500,000, a rebate of up to $130,000 is available.
Between $1,500,000 and $1,800,000, the rebate is gradually reduced, and it is fully phased out at $1,800,000 to the previous rebate of $24,000.
This program is no longer limited to first-time buyers. It applies to any purchaser who intends to use the property as their primary residence or rent it out on a long-term basis. Short-term rentals (such as Airbnb-style usage) does not qualify.

This is major news for the market, but it’s important to understand that it’s not as simple as just removing 13% from a home’s price.
In most cases, builders have already built the existing $24,000 HST rebate into their pricing. That means a home listed at $1,000,000 typically reflects a true price of about $1,024,000, with the builder assigning the rebate back to themselves on closing and adjusting the advertised price accordingly.
Because of this, the new HST holiday doesn’t automatically translate into a full 13% savings on top of current list prices. Instead, the actual benefit will depend on how each builder chooses to adjust their pricing, whether they pass the savings on to buyers, hold pricing steady, or reposition based on demand.
With that said a home that was previously listed at $1,000,000 (remember it really is $1,024,000) could now be sold by the builder for $894,000 without the builder taking a hit,  assuming the builder passes on the entire savings to the consumer. 

To make things even more interesting for the new construction market, the federal and provincial governments have also announced plans to reduce development charges across Ontario for a three-year period.
In some areas, like Toronto, early indications suggest reductions could be as high as 50%.
That said, this is still evolving. Municipalities across the province will ultimately determine how these reductions are applied, including the timing and the actual amounts. Until those details are finalized, it’s not entirely clear how much of this savings will be passed on to buyers.

What does this all mean for the market? 
For starters, those who entered into new build agreements but haven’t closed, seem to be SOL. I think this will change, and there is a lot of noise about it already. If you are one of those buyers who is in a contract or who recently closed you may want to reach out to your MP/MPP. I know of a few different petitions already being circulated to get changes made to this asap. 

From what I’m hearing within the industry, the early expectation is that builders will pass along the available credits to buyers. The goal being to improve affordability and, just as importantly, help move existing new build inventory.
That said, this will ultimately come down to individual builders and how they choose to position their pricing. Some may pass on the full benefit, while others may adjust more strategically depending on demand and supply. Buyer beware, know your contracts and have these reviewed by your lawyer to ensure you fully understand. I suspect most builders will advertise a lower price which includes all of the credits available, but in the event you as a purchaser do not qualify, you will be the one on the hook for the additional funds. 

I also suspect this will put additional downward pressure on the re-sale market. New homes have always sold at a premium compared to re-sale and with this rebate that gap could close notably. It’s fairly easy as a seller to compete with a builder when their closings are a year or two out, if someone needs a home now, they need it now… but for those builders with ready to go inventory they are going to look very attractive to buyers. For those who have purchased new in the last few years and have struggled to sell your property, this will not be welcome news. 

As someone who represents several builders, I can tell you the past few days have been hectic as everyone works through the details. The government has a “fun” way of making fairly broad announcements without all the specifics, so there’s been a lot happening behind the scenes. We’re actively working through everything alongside our legal teams to ensure the properties we represent are positioned correctly, and ultimately sold at the best possible value for buyers. If you are actively watching any of the developments we have at the River Realty Team, stay tuned as there is more to come! 

New build pricing is shifting quickly, and not every incentive will be as straightforward as it appears.
If you want clarity on how these changes impact specific projects — or want early access to builder inventory and incentives — reach out directly or send us a message. We’re actively working with multiple builders and can give you real-time insight you won’t find online.

It’s a frustrating reality for many sellers: the market is active, homes are selling, buyers are out looking, and yet, your home sits.

• No offers

• Few showings

• Little to no feedback

At first, it can feel confusing. If it’s a “good market,” shouldn’t everything sell?

The truth is, a strong market doesn’t guarantee a successful sale. And when a home isn’t selling, it’s rarely just “bad luck.”

Let’s break down what’s really happening.

Selling Successfully Isn’t About Luck

There’s a common misconception that selling a home is mostly timing and chance, that the right buyer just has to come along.

But in reality, successful sales are the result of intentional strategy.

Homes that sell (and sell well) typically have three things working together:

• Clear, data-driven pricing

• Strong market positioning

• Ongoing adjustments based on feedback

When one or more of these is off, the listing can lose momentum quickly.

And momentum matters more than many sellers realize. When a home launches with the right strategy, it creates energy, showings increase, interest builds, and buyers feel a sense of urgency. Without that, even a great property can feel overlooked.

Silence Isn’t Neutral

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is assuming that “no news is fine.”

But in real estate, silence is actually a signal.

• Low showings

• No offers

• Minimal engagement

These don’t mean buyers aren’t interested at all. More often, they mean buyers are unsure.

Maybe the price feels too high for the condition.

Maybe the photos don’t match expectations.

Maybe the home isn’t clearly positioned against comparable listings.

When buyers are unsure, they don’t act,  they move on to the next option that feels more aligned and more certain.

And in today’s market, where buyers have instant access to new listings, that decision happens quickly.

Waiting too long to respond to that silence can cost you both time and negotiating power. The longer a home sits without action, the more buyers begin to wonder what’s wrong with it,  even if nothing actually is.

Presentation Sets Expectations

Before a buyer ever steps foot inside a home, they’ve already formed an opinion.

That opinion comes from:

• Listing photos

• Staging

• Description and details

• Overall presentation online

These elements don’t just show the home,  they communicate its value.

Buyers are constantly comparing listings, often within seconds. If your home doesn’t immediately feel aligned with its price point, it can get skipped before it ever gets a showing.

If the presentation feels underwhelming, cluttered, or inconsistent with the price point, buyers will adjust their expectations accordingly… or skip the property entirely.

Strong presentation, on the other hand, creates confidence. It tells buyers:

“This home is worth your time, and your offer.”

It also sets the tone for how buyers emotionally connect with the space, and that emotional connection is often what drives strong offers.

The First 7–10 Days Matter Most

When a home first hits the market, it gets the highest level of attention it will likely ever receive.

During those first 7–10 days:

• Buyer interest is at its peak

• Your listing has maximum visibility

• Feedback on pricing is the most accurate

This window is critical.

It’s when your home is seen by the most motivated and qualified buyers,  the ones who have been actively waiting for something like your property to come up.

If a home is overpriced or underwhelming during this period, it can miss its moment, and regaining that momentum later is much harder.

Price reductions or changes after the fact can help, but they rarely recreate the same level of excitement as a strong initial launch.

That’s why getting it right from the start matters more than anything.

Pricing Without Context Hurts Momentum

Pricing isn’t just about picking a number,  it’s about positioning your home within the market.

Effective pricing considers:

• Real buyer demand

• Recent comparable sales

• Current competition

• Condition and presentation

It also considers how buyers search. Many are filtering by price ranges, meaning even a small misalignment can cause your home to be missed entirely.

When pricing lacks this context, buyers notice immediately.

If it’s too high, they don’t engage.

If it’s confusing, they hesitate.

And hesitation is often the difference between a showing and a scroll past.

Once a listing loses momentum, even price reductions later can struggle to reignite interest, because the listing is no longer “new” in the eyes of the market.

Marketing Matters More Than You Think

Even in a strong market, simply putting a home on MLS isn’t enough.

Exposure and strategy behind that exposure play a major role in how quickly,  and how successfully — a home sells.

Effective marketing can include:

• Targeted online exposure

• Social media strategy

• Agent-to-agent promotion

• Highlighting the home’s strongest features clearly and intentionally

The goal isn’t just to get views,  it’s to attract the right buyers.

When marketing is generic or passive, the listing can get lost among the competition. But when it’s intentional and aligned with the home’s positioning, it can significantly increase engagement and interest.

It’s Rarely the House

Here’s the part many sellers don’t expect:

It’s rarely the house itself that’s the problem.

Every home can sell with the right strategy in place.

When a listing struggles, it’s almost always due to gaps in how it’s being positioned, priced, or presented to the market,  not the property itself.

That could mean:

• Pricing that doesn’t align with current buyer expectations

• Presentation that doesn’t fully highlight the home’s strengths

• Missed opportunities to adjust based on real-time feedback

In many cases, small, strategic changes can make a significant difference in how a home is perceived,  and how quickly it gains traction.

The Bottom Line

If your home isn’t selling, even in a strong market, it’s not random.

It’s a signal.

A signal that something in the strategy needs to shift.

And the right approach isn’t about guessing,  it’s about working together to understand the market, interpret buyer feedback, and make the adjustments that will move your home forward.

With the right pricing, thoughtful positioning, and strong presentation, we can create a strategy that gives your home the best possible chance to stand out, attract serious buyers, and ultimately, sell successfully.

As tax season approaches, many Canadians begin thinking more seriously about their finances, savings strategies, and long-term goals. For those hoping to purchase their first home in the future, there is one savings tool that has become increasingly important to understand, the First Home Savings Account (FHSA).

Recently, Jim Steffler, Mortgage Agent with Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd., shared helpful insights about how the FHSA works and why it can be such a valuable option for first-time buyers looking to enter the housing market.

What Is the FHSA?

The First Home Savings Account was designed to help Canadians save for their first home in a tax-efficient way. What makes this account unique is that it combines some of the most beneficial features of both Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs).

This combination allows buyers to benefit from tax deductions while also enjoying tax-free growth on their savings.

The “Double Tax Advantage”

According to Jim, one of the most appealing aspects of the FHSA is what many refer to as the “double tax advantage.”

Tax-deductible contributions  
Much like an RRSP, the money you contribute to an FHSA can be deducted from your taxable income. For example, if someone contributes $8,000 into their FHSA during the year, that amount can reduce their taxable income by the same amount. In many cases, this can result in a noticeable tax refund.

Tax-free growth and withdrawals  
Similar to a TFSA, any investments held within the account grow tax-free over time. When the funds are eventually withdrawn to purchase a qualifying home, both the original contributions and the investment growth can be withdrawn without paying tax.

This combination makes the FHSA a very powerful savings tool for first-time buyers.

FHSA Contribution Limits

Like most registered accounts, the FHSA has contribution limits that buyers should be aware of.

- Annual contribution limit: $8,000  
- Lifetime contribution limit: $40,000  

If someone does not contribute the full $8,000 in a given year, the unused portion can be carried forward into the following year, up to a maximum of $8,000 in additional contribution room.

For example, if an individual opens an FHSA but does not contribute in their first year, they may be able to contribute up to $16,000 in the second year,  $8,000 for the current year plus $8,000 carried forward.

Why Opening an FHSA Early Can Be Helpful

One important detail Jim highlighted is that contribution room only begins accumulating once the account is opened.

Even if someone isn’t quite ready to begin saving yet, opening the account can still be beneficial. Starting the account early allows individuals to begin building contribution room for future years, giving them more flexibility when they are ready to start contributing.

For young buyers or anyone planning to purchase a home several years down the road, this can be an important step.

No Waiting Period to Use the Funds

Another feature that makes the FHSA particularly flexible is that there is no mandatory waiting period before the funds can be used.

According to Jim, a buyer could technically open an FHSA, make a contribution, and withdraw the funds shortly after if they are purchasing a qualifying home. This flexibility can be helpful for buyers who may already be actively searching for a property but want to take advantage of the tax benefits.

A Valuable Tool for Future Home Buyers

Saving for a first home can feel like a major challenge, especially with rising home prices and living costs. Programs like the FHSA were created to help make that process a little more manageable by giving buyers additional financial tools and tax advantages.

For anyone planning to buy their first home in the coming years, learning about accounts like the FHSA and speaking with financial or mortgage professionals can be a great first step in building a strategy.

The River Realty Team would like to thank Jim Steffler, Mortgage Agent with Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd., for sharing his expertise and helping us better understand how the FHSA can benefit first-time home buyers.

If you have questions about purchasing your first home or navigating today’s real estate market, our team is always happy to help guide you through the process.  

For mortgage or financing questions:

Jim Steffler | Mortgage Agent Level 2

📞 226.338.5136

✉️ jim@jimstefflermortgages.com 

Or follow this link below to Jims website 

https://jimstefflermortgages.com/

Congrats — you did it! You officially own a home.

Which also means… you now own everything inside it that can break, leak, creak, or mysteriously stop working at 9 p.m. on a Sunday. From appliances and plumbing to wiring and systems you may have never thought about before, it’s all officially yours now.

Homeownership is exciting, empowering, and yes, a little humbling. There’s a lot to learn, and not everything comes with instructions. The good news? A few simple habits can save you stress, money, and panic down the road and help you feel more confident in your new role.

Here’s how to stay ahead of it from day one:

1. Find Your Water Shut-Off (Before You Need It)

This one is huge. If a pipe bursts or a toilet overflows, knowing how to shut off the water immediately can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Water issues escalate quickly, and the faster you can respond, the better.

Take five minutes now to locate the shut-off, make sure it works, and show anyone else in the home where it is, future you will be very grateful.

2. Change Your Furnace Filter Regularly

It’s easy to forget, but changing your furnace filter every 1–3 months keeps your system running efficiently, improves air quality, and can extend the life of your HVAC. When filters get clogged, your system has to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear over time.

Set a reminder or keep a spare on hand to make this an easy, consistent habit.

3. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors (and Check the Dates)

Safety first, always. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you move in and then every few months after to ensure they’re working properly. Replace batteries as needed, especially before winter when heating systems are used more often.

Also important: smoke alarms don’t last forever. Most need to be replaced every 10 years, and many have the manufacture date printed on the back. When you move in, take a minute to check those dates so you know whether they’re still good or due for replacement. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

4. Start a Small Repair Fund

Something will need fixing, it’s not a matter of if, but when. Repairs are simply part of homeownership, no matter how new your home may be. Even setting aside a small amount each month can take the sting out of unexpected repairs and give you peace of mind.

Having a repair fund allows you to address issues quickly instead of putting them off.

5. Fix Little Problems Before They Become Big Ones

That tiny drip, loose handle, or hairline crack? Don’t ignore it. Small issues are usually quick and inexpensive to fix, until they’re not. What starts as a minor inconvenience can quietly turn into a costly repair if left unchecked.

Addressing problems early helps protect both your home and your wallet.

6. Buy a Basic Toolkit (Trust Me)

You don’t need a full workshop, but a few essentials, like a hammer, screwdriver set, tape measure, and wrench, will come in handy more often than you think. These tools can handle everyday fixes and small projects that pop up unexpectedly.

You’ll feel very accomplished the first time you fix something yourself.

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Homeownership isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about learning as you go. You’ll Google things, ask questions, call professionals, and slowly build confidence over time.

And that’s all part of it.

Welcome home. 🏡✨

If you’re in an area expecting heavy snowfall, a little preparation can go a long way. Snowstorms can impact travel, power, and home safety, so it’s worth taking a few simple steps to stay ahead of it.

Before the Snow Starts

• Check your supplies
  Make sure you have groceries, medications, pet food, and essentials in case travel becomes difficult.

• Charge devices
  Fully charge phones, tablets, power banks, and flashlights in case of power outages.

• Clear drains and vents
  Check that downspouts, floor drains, furnace and dryer vents are clear so melting snow doesn’t cause backups or carbon monoxide issues.

• Park smart
  Move vehicles away from the street if possible and avoid parking under trees heavy with snow.

• Set your thermostat wisely
  Keep your home at a steady temperature to prevent frozen pipes.

During the Storm

• Avoid unnecessary travel
  Snow-covered roads reduce visibility and traction. If you don’t need to be out, stay put. If you do have to drive make sure you have a full tank of gas. 

• Check on neighbours
  Seniors and anyone living alone may need help with snow removal or supplies.

• Watch for drifting snow
  Keep an eye on entrances, exits, and vents to make sure they don’t get blocked.

After the Snowfall

• Shovel safely
  Take breaks, push snow instead of lifting, and watch for signs of overexertion.

• Clear vents again
  Make sure furnace, dryer, and gas appliance vents are free of snow before restarting normal routines.

• Check your sump pump
  If a thaw follows, melting snow can lead to water issues quickly.

A Quick Reminder

Snowstorms are unpredictable. Staying home when possible and preparing in advance helps keep you, your family, and first responders safe.

Stay warm, stay safe, and take it slow today.

As of January 1, 2026, Ontario’s Fire Code requires updated carbon monoxide (CO) alarm placement in rental properties. If your rental unit has fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage, CO alarms must now be installed on every floor of the unit, not just near bedrooms.

What’s Required in Rentals

CO alarms must be installed:

• On every storey, including basements

• Outside all sleeping areas

• In any unit with an attached garage

Fuel-burning sources include furnaces, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and gas dryers.

Landlord Responsibilities

• Install and maintain all required CO alarms

• Ensure alarms are CSA or ULC certified for Canada

• Replace alarms when they expired

• Address tenant-reported issues promptly

Tenants are responsible for not disabling alarms, but compliance ultimately rests with the landlord.

Why This Matters

Non-compliance can result in:

• Fire Code violations and fines

• Increased liability risk

• Insurance issues

• Problems during inspections or property sales

If an Alarm Sounds

Tenants should evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside the unit. If you own rental property, now is the time to confirm your units meet the updated Fire Code requirements.

In 2025, we took things up a notch by ramping up online engagement for our clients’ benefit. This led to 1,343,800 impressions on the RRT Facebook and Instagram alone. Our website improvements brought in 62,293 unique visitors, averaging 170 people a day.

Why does this matter? The more people see your property—or your buying potential—the higher the chance of getting the best price, the fastest sale, or finding the perfect home. These aren’t just numbers—they directly translate into real results for you. We are truly humbled by these numbers. As a team, we penned 69 firm transactions in 2025—considering the average agent sells fewer than 3 homes a year, that says a lot about our approach. 

When we started the River Realty Team, we wanted to do things differently. Our pink and blue logo reflects that: stand out, get noticed, deliver results. That’s exactly what we show up to do for our clients every single day. If you think 2026 is the year you want to make a move, we’d love to sit down and discuss your options. As a team, we’re constantly refining our systems and strategies to make sure our clients get the very best representation and advice.

We’re gearing up for our best year yet! Want to take advantage of our combined 42 years of experience (yes it matters) we’d love to chat! 

Let’s be honest — the market has changed. One of the biggest challenges we’re seeing right now is pricing, especially when it comes to setting the right price for today’s conditions. Many home sellers are still thinking back to the wild days of 2021 and early 2022, when homes were selling in days (sometimes hours) and prices were climbing at record speed.

But that market doesn’t exist anymore. Depending on how you look at the numbers, home values are sitting roughly 18–25% below the peak we saw during that frenzy.

What’s Happened Since the Peak

The good news is that the market has largely stabilized since mid-2023. Prices aren’t dropping the way they did right after the peak, and most communities have settled into a more balanced rhythm. The pace is slower, buyers are more thoughtful, and while homes don’t sell overnight anymore, good listings are still moving when priced right.

However, if you purchased a home in the second half of 2021 or in 2022, you might find that selling today means accepting a lower price than what you paid. That’s not easy to hear — and as someone who owns real estate too, I understand how frustrating that feels. None of us want to see values dip below what we paid.

The Cost of Living Somewhere

But here’s the thing: living somewhere always costs money. Whether you’re renting or owning, you’re paying to have a roof over your head. Owning comes with mortgage payments, maintenance, property taxes, and insurance. Renting comes with monthly payments that build no equity at all.

If you bought during the peak, you’ve likely spent the last few years enjoying your home, building memories, and paying down your mortgage — all things that still have real value, even if your sale price isn’t higher today.

Why Time Still Matters

Before the 2020-2022 boom, it was common wisdom that you should plan to own a home for 5–10 years before selling if you wanted to build meaningful equity. That old rule of thumb is making a comeback. The ultra-fast equity gains we saw for a short stretch were never meant to be sustainable.

Real estate remains one of the most reliable long-term wealth builders — but it works best when you give it time.

Moving Forward

So yes, the market today looks different than it did a few years ago. But that’s not all bad. A more balanced market gives both buyers and sellers a fairer shot. It rewards realistic pricing, quality presentation, and good strategy — all things that experienced realtors (like us!) focus on every day.

If you’re thinking about selling and want an honest look at what your home is worth right now, reach out. We’ll walk you through the data, the trends, and what to expect — no sugarcoating, just real advice for today’s market.

Selling your home can be stressful—but when you have pets, it can feel even trickier. At River Realty, we totally get it. Every member of our team has pets we adore, and we know how much they’re part of your family 🐶🐱. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for selling your home in Paris, Ontario while keeping your furry friends happy—and appealing to buyers.

1. Keep Your Home Clean and Smelling Fresh 🧹✨

Pet hair, dander, and odors can be a deal-breaker for buyers. Regularly vacuum, mop, and clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Consider professional carpet cleaning if needed. Natural scents like baking soda or subtle essential oils work best—overpowering air fresheners can turn buyers off.

2. Stage Smart and Minimize Pet Clutter 🛋️🐾

Buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, not focus on your pets’ toys and beds. Remove litter boxes, beds, and pet supplies during showings. If possible, have pets safely in another room or at a friend’s house for the day.

3. Fix Any Pet Damage 🐾🩹

Scratched floors, chewed baseboards, or stained carpets can worry buyers. Touch up paint, fill scratches, and clean or replace damaged flooring. Even small repairs can make your home look well-maintained and move-in ready.

4. Plan Showings Around Your Pets 🐕🚶‍♂️

Some buyers may be hesitant around dogs, cats, or other animals. Schedule showings when your pets can be out for a walk or safely in a separate room. This keeps your home calm and buyer-friendly.

5. Highlight Pet-Friendly Features 🌳🏡

Does your home have a fenced yard? Nearby parks? Built-in pet amenities? Make sure buyers know! Pet-friendly features can actually be a selling point in Paris, Ontario, where many families love having outdoor space for their animals.

6. Be Honest About Pet-Related Wear and Tear 🐾💬

Transparency builds trust. If there’s any pet-related damage, disclose it upfront. Buyers will appreciate your honesty, and it helps avoid surprises during negotiations.

7. Keep Calm and Flexible 😌🐶🐱

Selling with pets requires coordination, but a little planning goes a long way. Keep your home clean, stage thoughtfully, and be mindful of showings. Your home—and your pets—will shine!

At River Realty, we love pets just as much as you do, and we’ve helped countless families in Paris, Ontario sell their homes while keeping their furry friends happy. 🐾❤️Selling your home with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these tips, and your home will appeal to buyers while your pets stay safe and loved.

Fall in Southern Ontario means changing leaves, cooler evenings, and yes — that one neighbour who goes a little too hard on Halloween decorations (we see you, Steve 🎃).

While it’s one of the most beautiful times of the year, it’s also your reminder to get your home ready before winter hits. Here’s a practical (and totally doable) checklist to help you prep without losing your sanity.

🧹 1. Clean Your Gutters

No one enjoys scooping soggy leaves, but clogged gutters can cause serious water damage once the snow starts to melt. Grab a ladder, clear the debris, and enjoy the free arm workout while you’re at it.

🔥 2. Furnace Tune-Up

A Canadian winter without heat? No thanks. Schedule a furnace inspection now, and have your gas fireplace checked too. You’ll thank yourself when that first cold snap hits.

💨 3. Seal Drafts

Feeling a mysterious chill inside? Not a ghost 👻 — just air leaks around windows and doors. Weather stripping or a bit of caulking now can save big on heating bills later.

🍂 4. Deal with the Leaves (or Don’t)

Rake them, mulch them, or wait for the snow to hide them. Either way, if you do rake, jumping in the pile at least once is mandatory.

🚨 5. Test Smoke & CO Detectors

A quick press of the button could literally save a life. Replace batteries if needed and double-check expiry dates on your CO detectors.

🕯️ 6. Stock Up on Cozy Essentials

Blankets, candles, and soup season are officially back. Add a good book or your favourite series (hello, Gilmore Girls☕) and you’ve got peak fall comfort.

🌳 7. Prep the Yard

Say goodbye to patio furniture before it becomes a permanent ice sculpture. Cover it, stash it, or drag it closer to the house and hope for the best.

⚡ 8. Restock Your Emergency Kit

Snowstorms happen. Power outages happen. Make sure you’ve got batteries, candles, flashlights, and snacks ready to go — bonus points for downloaded shows when the Wi-Fi gives up.

Prepping your home for fall doesn’t have to be a chore — think of it as setting the stage for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, and maybe even a snow day or two.

If you’d like trusted local contacts to help with any of these tasks, reach out anytime — our team’s always happy to connect you with the right people.