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 When the funds are eventually withdrawn to purchase a qualifying home, both the original contributions and the investment growth can be withdrawn without paying tax.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.

⸻

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.

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!