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.

Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better time to get out and explore everything our local communities have to offer! Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, there are so many exciting events happening in Paris and Brantford this season and we’re here to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Mark your calendars, grab your family or friends, and enjoy everything from food festivals and outdoor concerts to movies under the stars!

What’s On in Paris:

Paris Night Market
July 18–19 | Paris Fairgrounds
Enjoy two magical nights filled with artisan vendors, food trucks, handmade goods, and live music. It's the perfect evening stroll with a bite to eat and a drink in hand!

Paris Coin Show
August 10 | 9am–3pm
If you're a collector or simply curious, stop by the Paris Coin Show to browse rare finds and connect with local hobbyists.

Paris Drinks Fest
August 15–16 | Paris Fairgrounds
Craft drinks, live bands, and great food all come together for one of the most anticipated summer events in Paris. Cheers to that!

Afro‑CariBrant Festival
September 6–7 | Lions Park
A vibrant celebration of Afro‑Caribbean culture with music, dance, food, and community workshops. Free and fun for all ages!

What’s On in Brantford:

Bell Summer Theatre Festival
July 19–20 & August 16–17 | Bell Homestead
Catch family-friendly theatre performances in a historic outdoor setting. Pack a blanket, enjoy a show, and soak in the summer air.

Sunset Wine & Cheese Nights
July 25 & August 15 | Brantford Flight Centre
Unwind with a glass of local wine and a gourmet cheese board while watching the sunset from this scenic airport location.

Movies Under the Stars – Casablanca
August 9 | Bell Homestead (Dusk)
Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a romantic classic under the stars. A great date night or outing with friends!

Symphony at Sunset
August 21 | Bell Homestead (7pm)
Experience a full orchestra performance surrounded by nature. Don’t forget your picnic basket!

Local Living at Its Best

Whether you’re into craft beer, live music, theatre, or just a relaxing evening outdoors, there’s something for everyone this summer in Paris and Brantford. These events are what make our communities so special and just one more reason to love where you live.

Thinking of making a move or getting more involved in your neighbourhood? We’d love to help you feel even more at home.

Have questions about living in the area or want more local tips?
Send us a DM or reach out any time, we’re always here to chat!

While spring and fall get all the glory, summer can be a great time to list your home. Here’s why:

1. Less Competition = More Attention. As you know many Sellers aim to list in the Spring or wait until the Fall, which means fewer listings in the summer months. With less inventory on the market, your homes stands out more and can attract serious buyers who don’t have dozens of options to scroll through.

2. Buyers are Motivated. Buyers looking this time of year often have a deadline - whether it’s getting settled before a new school season, relocating for work or taking advantage of a vacation window to make their move. These aren’t just browsers, these are Buyers who are ready to act!

3. Your Home Shows Best in Summer. Longer days means brighter rooms, lush landscaping and outdoor spaces shine! Pools, decks, gardens, and curb appeal all make a strong emotional impression when people are imagining their next summer in a new space. 

4. More Flexibility for Showings. Schools out and people tend to have more flexibility from employers or take a lot of vacation time, making it easier for both Buyers and Sellers to accommodate showings or Open Houses 

5. Summer Moves are Just Easier. Picture yourself carrying boxes through blowing snow or carry that couch in on a nice summer day, which would you prefer? Summer is peak moving season for a reason - it’s just more pleasant - and Buyers know it! 

Thinking of Selling? Let’s chat and make a plan so your home hits the market while the summer momentum is still strong. Fall gets crowded—get ahead of the curve while the sun's still shining.

 Okay, so summer is finally here! Whether you’re planning to chill in the backyard, have friends over, or just want your place to feel a little more fresh and fun, this is the perfect time to give your home some love. Don’t worry, we’re not talking full-on renovations. These are easy, low-stress things that actually make a big difference.

 Here are 5 things you can do to get your home summer-ready:

 1. Make Sure Your A/C Doesn’t Quit on You

Nobody wants to be sweating inside when it’s 30°C out. Take five minutes to clean or replace your air filter (seriously, it's gross in there), and if your AC is acting weird, get someone to check it out now, before it totally dies mid-heatwave.

 2. Give the Front of Your House a New Look

Your house deserves a little summer makeover too. Try pressure-washing the walkway, throwing some flowers in pots, or painting your front door a new colour. It’s a super easy way to make your place look awesome from the outside.

 3. Cut the Grass (and Actually Keep Up With It)

Yeah, we all forget sometimes, but a freshly cut lawn instantly makes your home feel more put together. Trim the bushes, pull the weeds, and water early in the morning when it’s not scorching out.

 4. Make the Backyard Enjoyable

Whether it’s lights, a fire pit, or just dragging out some comfy chairs, turn your backyard into a spot you actually want to hang out in. Bonus points if you’ve got a speaker.

 5. Check the Roof & Gutters

It’s not the most fun job, but it’s worth it. Look for any loose shingles or clogged gutters, catching stuff early can save a ton of money later. You’ll thank yourself when that random summer thunderstorm rolls through.

 Getting your house summer-ready doesn’t have to be a huge project. These little things can make it way more comfortable, save you money, and just help you enjoy your space more. Whether you’re relaxing solo or inviting people over, your home will be good to go. 😎

 Need help with anything house-related? Hit us up, we're always around to help or answer questions!

 Have you been asking yourself, “What’s my home worth right now?”  you’re not alone. Whether you’re thinking of selling soon or just curious, understanding your property’s current value is a smart move. But how do real estate agents figure that number out? Let’s break it down.

 1. We Start With a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

A CMA looks at similar homes in your area that have recently sold, are currently listed, or were taken off the market. We compare your home to properties with similar size, layout, location, and features to get a sense of what buyers are willing to pay right now.

 2. Market Conditions Matter

The real estate market is always changing.

Are we in a buyer’s market? A seller’s market? Is inventory low? Are interest rates high? All of these factors influence pricing. For example, if homes in your neighbourhood are selling quickly and above asking, that tells us the demand is high and your home may be worth more than you think.

 3. We Adjust for Upgrades and Features

Not all homes are created equal.

Do you have a finished basement? A recently renovated kitchen? An extra bathroom? We make specific adjustments for things that add value and also consider any areas that might need work.

Even small details like a newer roof, updated windows, or professional landscaping can impact the final estimate.

 4. We Consider the Numbers, and the Story

Pricing isn’t just about math, it’s about knowing the story behind your home and how it fits into today’s market. That’s where local expertise comes in.

We combine data, current trends, and on-the-ground knowledge to give you a clear and realistic picture of your home’s market value.

Want to Know What Your Home is Worth?

If you're curious about what your property could sell for, let’s chat!

We’d be happy to help!

Rainy days are great for staying inside, wearing sweatpants, and pretending the outside world doesn’t exist. But they’re also kind of perfect for checking in on your home!

Here are 5 things you should do the next time it’s pouring outside:

1. Check for leaks around windows and doors
   If rain is sneaking in through the windows or doors, you’ll definitely notice it on a day like today. Touch around the edges, if anything feels damp or drafty, it might be time for a little weatherproofing. It’s not glamorous, but neither is a soggy living room.

2. Look at your gutters
   If your gutters are overflowing like a mini waterfall, they’re probably clogged. Water should go down and away from your house, not turn your walls into a splash zone. Either get up there safely (if you're into ladders and leaf gunk) or call someone who is.

3. Make sure your sump pump isn’t taking the day off
   Got a sump pump? Cool. Does it work? Even better. Pour a bucket of water in and see if it kicks on. If not, it’s time to get it checked before your basement turns into a swimming pool.

4. Walk around the outside and look for puddles
   If there’s a lake forming next to your house, that’s a red flag. Water pooling near your foundation can cause big problems later, like cracks or leaks. Try extending your downspouts or regrading the area so water flows away from your place.

5. Get your life together
   Rainy days = perfect excuse to stay in. But also… maybe clean that junk drawer? Organize your closet? You don’t have to do everything, but doing something feels kind of nice.

The Bottom Line:
Rainy days don’t have to be boring. They’re actually kind of useful when it comes to spotting stuff around the house that needs fixing.