With the election now behind us, and regardless of how you voted, one thing’s for sure — it’s behind us - for now. It’s time to look ahead and make sense of what this new political chapter could mean for the Canadian real estate market.

Mark Carney has stepped into the role of Prime Minister, leading a Liberal minority government. While Carney brings a fresh face and financial credentials to the table, it's important to remember that this is still a Liberal government — the same party that’s been steering the country for the past nine years. This can be seen as good, or bad, depending on who you talk with. 

That said, Carney’s leadership promises a more focused and, perhaps, more pragmatic approach to housing. His platform during the campaign put real estate and affordability issues front and centre, with some bold initiatives aimed at increasing supply and helping first-time buyers.

What’s on the Table?

At the top of the list is a proposed removal of GST on new homes under $1 million for first-time buyers — a move meant to lower the barrier to entry for those struggling to break into the market. The Liberals have also committed to doubling the pace of home construction, with a goal of building nearly 500,000 new units a year, and the creation of a new crown corporation, Build Canada Homes, to directly support affordable housing development.

These are ambitious promises, and on paper, they sound like steps in the right direction. More supply could ease pressure on prices, and incentives for first-time buyers are long overdue in many markets.

But let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment.

Big promises have been made before. We've heard talk of affordable housing, accelerated builds, and homebuyer support for years — often with limited follow-through. While Carney might bring new leadership style and financial discipline, the system he's working within hasn’t changed overnight. We’re still facing the same housing challenges in a country where most of the zoning and construction approvals happen at the municipal level.

Looking Ahead — Again

Given the minority government status, it’s also fair to expect more political turbulence in the near future. Once the NDP, and likely the Conservatives too, sort out their leadership and internal restructuring, there’s a strong chance we’ll be back at the polls, my guess, in about two years.

In the meantime, what does this mean for you as a homeowner, buyer, or investor?

For now, nothing changes overnight. Markets may remain cautious until policies turn into action. But if the new government follows through on its commitments, we could see meaningful steps toward addressing supply shortages and housing affordability. I expect we will start hearing announcements on policies shortly, and the waiver of GST on homes under $1,000,000 will likely be a quick and easy first step.  Whether these policies translate into actual affordability or just slightly less competition remains to be seen.

Final Thoughts

The Canadian real estate market is a long game. Governments come and go, policies shift, and yet people still need places to live. The best strategy? Stay informed, and understand that while politics influence the market, they don’t define it entirely.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on how this unfolds — and as always, we’re here to help you navigate whatever comes next.

Spring is finally here, and you know what that means… it’s almost pool season! ☀️ Before you dive in (literally), it’s important to open your pool the right way. Whether you’re planning pool parties or just looking forward to some lazy weekends floating around, here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your pool ready without the stress.

Say Goodbye to the Pool Cover 

Start by removing your pool cover, but don’t just toss it aside like that winter jacket you’re tired of. Clean it off, let it dry, and store it somewhere safe. A little effort now means an easier opening next year!

 Check Your Pool Equipment 

Before you hit any "on" buttons, double-check your pump, filter, and heater. Look for any signs of damage or leaks. Trust us, it’s better to fix small problems now than deal with a swamp later.

 Give Your Pool a Good Clean 

Even if it looks kinda clear, your pool probably needs a solid clean. Skim out leaves and debris, brush down the walls, and vacuum the bottom.

 Fill 'Er Up 

If the water level dropped over the winter, top it up before running your equipment. You can’t have cannonballs without enough water, right?

 Test and Balance Your Water 

This part’s not just for the chemists out there. Testing your pool water and adjusting the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels keeps everything safe and makes sure you’re not swimming in a giant science experiment.

 Shock It Like You Mean It

Give your pool a good shock treatment to kill off any lingering winter germs. It's basically a pool’s version of a really strong coffee to wake it up for the season.

 Safety First!

Before you grab the floaties, check that all fences, gates, and ladders are secure. A few quick safety checks now can save a whole lot of headaches later.

 Ready, Set, Swim!

Opening your pool might seem like a lot, but taking the time to do it right means more splashing and less stressing all summer long. If you’re thinking of buying a home with a pool (or maybe upgrading your backyard oasis), reach out to our team, we’d love to help you make a splash this year! 🌊🏡.

Many of our clients ask why we choose to be part of REMAX Twin City Realty Inc. instead of operating as our own brokerage. The answer is simple: being part of a large, well-established brokerage allows us to focus on what truly matters—delivering the best possible service to our clients.

By working within REMAX Twin City, we gain access to a powerful network of top-performing agents, increasing exposure for our listings and giving our buyers an edge in competitive markets. The brokerage also provides industry-leading training, cutting-edge technology, and marketing resources that help us stay ahead of trends and serve our clients at the highest level. Plus, having a dedicated administrative and compliance team ensures our transactions run smoothly, allowing us to focus on negotiating, marketing, and making the buying or selling process as stress-free as possible.

At the end of the day, being part of a globally recognized brand with a strong local presence gives our clients more confidence, more connections, and more results—without compromising the personal, hands-on service that makes our small team unique.

Spring is finally here, which means open house season is officially on. The weather’s warmer, everything looks better with a little sunshine, and more buyers are out and about looking for their dream home. If you're thinking about selling, hosting an open house can really help your place stand out, but only if it’s done right. Here are some easy ways to make your open house a total hit:

1. Make That Curb Appeal Pop

Before anyone steps inside, they’re already judging the outside, so make it count. Sweep the porch, trim the bushes, and maybe throw out a cute planter or two. A tidy lawn and clean walkway can go a long way.

2. Keep It Clean (and Chill on the Personal Stuff)

Buyers need to picture their lives in the space, not yours. So clean up any clutter, hide family photos, and keep things super simple. Think cozy and inviting, not messy or crowded.

3. Let There Be Light

Bright homes feel way more open and welcoming. Pull back the curtains, turn on the lights, and let that natural light do its thing. It makes every room look better, trust me.

4. Set the Mood

A little background music, a subtle candle, and maybe some fresh flowers can totally elevate the experience. You want people to walk in and feel like they could live there. Keep the scents light and the music lowkey.

Your open house is your home’s moment to shine. A little extra effort can seriously help buyers remember it in a good way. And hey, if you’re not sure how to pull it all together, I’ve got you. Reach out and we’ll walk you through it step-by-step.

In speaking with one of our trusted mortgage brokers, they’ve said one of the biggest worries people have when buying a home is the appraisal coming in low. Thinking about it, we agree - this is a part of the process you as a consumer have no control over. 

One note I want you to remember though... It's rare for an appraisal to come in lower on a purchase! 

As one appraiser once said to me: "The best way to tell what a property is worth is by what it just sold for in the open market". Honestly, I rarely actually see an appraisal these days on a MLS purchase (most just auto-appraise), and when I do they almost always come it at sale price.

Clients with less than 20% down:

• I almost never see an appraisal needed for these clients, unless the property is in poor shape, purchased privately, or under power of sale. 

• The main reason we rarely see appraisals needed is that there are so many comparable sales in this price range, and the mortgage insurers (CMHC, etc...) are responsible for determining the property value. Their automated Valuation model (AVM) algorithm is super generous, so this rarely happens.

• For context, I can't think of a deal I have done in the last year for an insured purchase where the purchase price was not supported... not a single one!

Clients with 20% down:

• If they're looking under a million, again we see very few appraisals needed as long as the property is urban, not a rental, in poor shape, purchases privately, or power of sale. There's usually enough comparables in the market that either the lender's AVM or the appraisal supports the purchase price.

• If they're looking over a million (or more rural) and just have the 20% down, this is where there's a bit more risk at play simply because there are less supporting comparables, and the higher the price point, the more subjective the property evaluation becomes.

• Again... I can't think of my last deal where a purchase price under a million wasn't supported by either an AVM or an appraisal (knock on wood!).

Clients with a massive down payment (think over 35%):

• These are the easy files - almost no risk unless there's something wrong with the property itself.

• If a client is buying a $900k home with $300k down and the appraisal comes in at $880,000, in the lender's eyes it's simply a $880,000 purchase with $280,000 down, and the client is kicking in the $20,000 difference. Easy!

Hopefully this can help relive some stress you have when thinking about mortgages. If you need any additional help we love working with Jim! https://jimstefflermortgages.com/

Okay real talk, spring is finally here, and it’s time to shake off those winter blues and give your house a little refresh. Whether you're living at home, renting your first place, or just helping your family tidy up, here’s a simple way to get your space feeling clean, bright, and ready for the season.

1.Clear the Clutter

You know all that stuff that’s just been sitting around since, like, November? Yeah... time to go through it. Put away the winter coats, throw out old junk you don’t need, and maybe even donate some stuff. Less clutter = less stress.

2. Give It a Good Clean

Time to blast your favourite playlist and do a solid clean. Dust off those corners, wipe down windows so the sunlight actually comes through, vacuum like you mean it, and maybe even tackle the scary spot under your bed 👀.

3. Check your Air Conditioning

If your place has AC or vents, change the filters and clean around them. You’ll thank yourself later when the weather heats up and your place isn’t a stuffy nightmare. Bonus: it helps with allergies too.

4. Tidy Up Outside

Winter can be rough on your house. If you’ve got a driveway, roof, or even just a little patio, take a walk around and see if anything’s cracked, broken, or just straight-up messy. Cleaning the outside makes the whole place feel better.

5. Double Check Safety Equipment

Quick reminder to test your smoke alarms, check batteries, and make sure your place is safe. Super easy, super important.

Thinking About Moving Soon? Spring’s actually a super popular time to buy or sell a home. So if you (or someone you may know) are thinking about moving, now’s a great time to start planning. And if you want help with that, I know a few people 😉

*Last Updated April 1st 2025

As we approach the 2025 federal election, housing affordability and supply remain key issues for Canadians. With demand outpacing supply in many markets, homebuyers, sellers, and investors are looking to political leaders for solutions. Each major party has put forward policies aimed at addressing housing challenges, and as a real estate professional, I want to break them down in a straightforward, unbiased way.

Liberal Party of Canada

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, the Liberals' Canada’s Housing Action Plan focuses on increasing supply and affordability by:

• Doubling home construction with 500,000 homes a year. Using the model similar to that after WWII with affordable, modular and efficient homes. 

• Cutting red tape to speed up home construction and repurposing federal lands for housing. (New Policy)

• Developing a Home Buyers’ Bill of Rights to increase transparency in the purchasing process. (New Policy)

• Removing the GST from new rental housing projects to encourage development. (Continued Policy)

• Supporting first-time homebuyers with a Tax-Free First-Home Savings Account and a doubled First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit. (Continued Policy)

• Introducing a two-year ban on foreign home purchases and an anti-flipping tax on properties sold within 12 months. (Continued Policy)

• [Source: Liberal Party of Canada](https://liberal.ca)

Conservative Party of Canada

Led by Pierre Poilievre, the Conservatives emphasize increasing housing supply through:

• Incentivizing municipalities to boost homebuilding by 15% annually or risk losing federal funding.

• Selling 15% of federal buildings to be repurposed as housing.

• Eliminating the GST on new homes priced under $1 million.

• Introducing longer mortgage terms (seven to ten years) and reviewing mortgage stress tests to ease affordability.

• Maintaining a two-year foreign buyer ban.

• [Source: Conservative Party of Canada](https://conservative.ca)

New Democratic Party (NDP)

Under Jagmeet Singh, the NDP’s approach centers on affordability and renter protections, including:

• Implementing a 20% tax on home sales to non-Canadian citizens and non-permanent residents to curb speculation.

• Doubling the Home Buyers’ Tax Credit to help with closing costs.

• Reintroducing 30-year mortgage terms for CMHC-insured entry-level homes to lower monthly payments.

• Waiving the federal GST/HST on new affordable rental units.

• Building 500,000 affordable housing units over ten years, with half completed within five years.

• [Source: New Democratic Party of Canada](https://ndp.ca)

Green Party of Canada

Under co-leaders Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault, the Greens propose structural changes to prioritize affordable and sustainable housing by:

• Refocusing CMHC on affordable, non-market, and cooperative housing solutions.

• Restoring tax incentives for purpose-built rental housing and encouraging community land trusts.

• Launching a Canada Co-op Housing Strategy with CMHC.

• Increasing funding for new builds and rental assistance.

• Creating a dedicated Minister of Housing to tailor national strategies to local needs.

• [Source: Green Party of Canada](https://greenparty.ca)

What This Means for Homebuyers and Sellers

Regardless of the election outcome, housing policy will continue to evolve. Buyers may see shifts in affordability programs, incentives, and mortgage regulations, while sellers should stay informed about market trends driven by new supply and demand policies. Investors should pay close attention to tax changes and foreign ownership rules.

As always, real estate is local, and national policies often play out differently across provinces and cities. If you have questions about how these potential changes could impact you, feel free to reach out!

Get out and vote!

ReMax just revealed their brand-new logo for 2025 at their R4 convention in Las Vegas! The update is all about making Our branding more modern and digital-friendly, so it looks better online and on social media.

The new logo has been getting mixed reactions online. Some people really like the new design, while others are giving it quite a bit of slack. Many fans of the old logo feel that it had a more timeless appeal, while supporters of the change appreciate the modern and sleek approach.

The new design is meant to keep ReMax up-to-date in the new digital world. You’ll start seeing the new logo everywhere, on signs, marketing materials, and all over the internet.

So, what do you think? Do you like the new ReMax look, or do you prefer the old one? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

If you haven’t made consent small talk about the snow lately, you probably don’t live in our market. It’s been a long time since we have seen a winter like this, and although I enjoy the snow, shovelling these large banks is getting tiring. If you’ve ever noticed a thick ridge of ice forming along the edge of your roof, you may be dealing with an ice dam. These formations can cause serious damage to your home if not addressed properly. Let’s break down what ice dams are, why they form, and how you can prevent them from wreaking havoc on your property.

An ice dam is a buildup of ice that forms along the edges of a roof, preventing melting snow from properly draining off. When warm air escapes into the attic, it causes snow on the roof to melt. As the water reaches the colder edges of the roof, it refreezes, creating a barrier. Over time, this dam can trap more water behind it, leading to leaks, structural damage, and even mold growth inside your home.

Signs of Ice Damming

• Large icicles hanging from the roofline

• Water stains on interior walls or ceilings

• Ice buildup in gutters and downspouts

• Warped or sagging roof edges

Ice dams might look harmless, but they can lead to significant damage, including:

• Roof Leaks: Water pooling behind the ice dam can seep under shingles, leading to costly roof repairs.

• Insulation Damage: Once water enters your home, it can soak attic insulation, reducing its effectiveness and increasing energy costs.

• Mold and Mildew Growth: Moisture buildup can create the perfect environment for mold, which can pose health risks for your family.

• Structural Issues: Repeated ice damming can weaken roofing materials, ceilings, and walls over time.

The good news? Ice dams are preventable! Here are a few key steps you can take:

1. Improve Attic Insulation & Ventilation: Ensuring your attic stays cold prevents uneven melting of snow on your roof.

2. Seal Air Leaks: Close any gaps around vents, chimneys, and light fixtures to prevent warm air from escaping into the attic.

3. Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters prevent proper drainage, making ice dams more likely to form.

4. Use a Roof Rake: After heavy snowfall, carefully remove excess snow from the edges of your roof.

5. Consider Heat Cables: In problem areas, heated cables can be installed to prevent ice formation.

If you notice an ice dam forming, act quickly:

• Use a roof rake to remove excess snow (but do so safely!).

• Apply calcium chloride (NOT rock salt) to help melt the ice.

• If you’re dealing with leaks or significant buildup, call a professional to assess and fix the issue.

As a homeowner, staying ahead of winter-related maintenance can save you from costly repairs down the road. Ice dams are a serious concern, but with the right preventive measures, you can keep your home safe, dry, and damage-free all winter long. If you’re considering buying or selling a home this season, our team is here to help. We can provide guidance on winter home maintenance and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision. Reach out today—we’d love to chat!

Our next provincial election is coming up, and while voting might not be everyone s priorities, it’s one of the most important ways to have a say in the future of the province. The provincial government makes decisions that affect daily life, from healthcare and education to transportation and one of the biggest concerns right now, housing.

What Does the Provincial Government Do? 

Unlike municipal governments, the provincial government is responsible for a lot of things that impact us directly. They make decisions about things like healthcare, education, public transportation, highways, energy, housing policies and affordability 

Housing is a major issue for many people right now, whether they’re trying to buy their first home, rent an apartment, or even just keep up with inflation.

Housing Is Mostly a Provincial Issue 

Many people assume housing policies are a federal responsibility, but the provincial government plays the biggest role in shaping the housing market. They decide on policies that affect what can be built and where, how much landlords can increase rent and what protections renters have, programs to help first-time buyers, land transfer taxes and foreign buyer taxes. 

The choices made by the next provincial government could impact housing affordability and availability for years to come.

Your Vote Makes a Difference 

If you care about housing, affordability, or any other issue that affects your daily life, voting is a great way to have your voice heard. Elections are decided by the people who show up, and your vote helps shape what will happen for years to come.

Paris is growing fast, and now, two brand-new schools are coming to town. This is good news for students and families because it means more space, better facilities, and new classrooms to learn in. The provincial government is investing millions to build these schools and help with crowded classrooms.

One of the schools coming to Paris is a new Catholic elementary school and the other, a new public elementary school. They’ll have cool learning spaces, big gymnasiums, and outdoor areas for students to enjoy. Plus, they are saying both schools will have childcare centres, which is super helpful for parents who need a safe place for their kids while they work.

The Ontario government is putting $51 million into these schools as part of a bigger plan to build and improve schools all over the province. This investment will create over 1,000 new spots for students and more than 100 licensed childcare spots in Paris.

For students and families, this is a game changer. More space means less crowded classrooms, better learning experiences, and brand-new facilities. Paris is growing, and these schools will help make sure kids have everything they need to succeed.

Are you getting your home ready for the Spring market? We’ve got some upgrades with the best return on investment for your curb appeal. The first thing a buyer will notice about your home is the exterior and front of the house. It’s a smart idea to give the best first impression to potential buyers, you can do this by following some of our tips below.

The first upgrade we have for you is landscaping. Landscaping is one of the most impactful ways to boost curb appeal. Focus on simple upgrades like adding mulch, planting flowers or shrubs, and trimming overgrown trees to create a nicer look.

Replacing your garage door offers one of the highest returns on investment. A new garage door not only adds to the overall look of your home but also improves functionality and energy efficiency, making it a great upgrade for homeowners.

Upgrading to new windows enhances your home's curb appeal while also adding comfort and style. New windows can lower outside noise making it an investment that pays off in value and aesthetics.

Installing a new steel front door is a good way to elevate your home's curb appeal and make a better first impression. Known for its durability, security, and appearance, a steel door is a smart investment that adds value and makes your home's exterior better.