Renovating your bathroom can be one of the most rewarding updates you make to your home—but it also comes with a lot of decisions. Beyond choosing finishes and features you love, it's essential to think about how those choices may impact your home's functionality and even its future resale value.

Whether you're updating a main bathroom, ensuite, powder room, or guest bath, it's a good idea to think long-term—especially if you're considering changes like swapping a bathtub for a walk-in shower or adding accessibility upgrades.

Here are some key factors to consider before diving into your bathroom remodel:

Showers vs. Tubs: What’s the Right Move?

In today’s market, sleek, modern showers have become increasingly popular—especially spacious walk-ins with built-in benches, shelves, or open, doorless designs. These features feel contemporary and convenient, especially for busy households or aging homeowners.

But don’t count out bathtubs just yet.

If your home appeals to young families, a lack of a bathtub might actually work against you. Many parents prefer having a tub for bathing kids, and families often see it as an essential feature. If you only have one bathroom in your home, keeping at least one tub is usually a smart move.

When in doubt, talk to a local real estate expert to find out what features buyers in your area are prioritizing.

Flooring: Style, Safety, and Comfort

Carpet in bathrooms has mostly gone out of style for practical (and hygienic) reasons—but there are still a few important decisions to make when it comes to flooring.

Popular choices today include:

• Porcelain or ceramic tiles

• Waterproof vinyl

• Engineered wood

These materials are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. For added safety, consider non-slip textures or finishes—especially important in homes with kids or seniors. And for an extra touch of luxury, heated floors can make chilly mornings a bit more bearable.

Vanity Must-Haves

Today’s homeowners are leaning toward vanities that are both functional and beautiful. Double sinks continue to be a favourite, especially in shared bathrooms, while storage-friendly designs help keep clutter out of sight.

Trending vanity features:

• Solid plywood or hardwood construction

• Stone or quartz countertops

• Built-in drawers and shelving

• Comfortable counter height (say goodbye to the squat-and-splash)

Your vanity is one of the focal points of your bathroom, so choose something that’s practical, long-lasting, and suits the overall style of your space.

Designing for Accessibility

If you're planning to age in place—or simply want to make your bathroom more inclusive—accessibility should be part of the design from the beginning. Planning ahead can save you both time and money later on.

Accessibility-friendly bathroom features might include:

• Wide, roll-in showers

• Built-in or movable shower seats

• Handheld, adjustable showerheads

• Wall-mounted grab bars (secured to studs, not suction!)

• Raised toilets

• Support rails around the toilet area

• Easy-turn lever faucets

• Bright, layered lighting

• Non-slip floors and mats

These elements not only make a bathroom more functional for everyone—they can also appeal to a broader range of buyers down the road.

Smart Storage Solutions

Before choosing your storage, consider how the space will be used. A kid’s bathroom might need lots of open shelving and basket space, while a guest bathroom can get by with minimal storage. A master ensuite? That’s where you can splurge on smart solutions.

Creative storage ideas:

• Under-sink cabinets or drawers

• Floating wall shelves

• Recessed wall niches

• Over-the-toilet shelving

• Built-in linen closets

• Storage ladders or towel ladders

• Stylish baskets, carts, or bins

• Mounted wall racks or cubbies

Remember: A clutter-free bathroom looks and feels more spacious—and a well-organized space is always a win for resale.

Final Thoughts

Renovating a bathroom is about more than just pretty tiles and trendy taps. The best bathroom designs strike a balance between function, comfort, safety, and style. Whether you’re planning a small refresh or a complete overhaul, taking the time to think through your choices now can help you create a space you’ll love—while also protecting the long-term value of your home.

Thinking about starting your own bathroom reno? Don’t forget to consult a local expert to help you make the most strategic and stylish choices for your space!

Who (or what) do you turn to when you have questions about real estate?
If you're like most Canadians, you're probably asking Google or even using AI tools to help you get started. And while the internet is a great place to begin gathering general information, it’s not always easy to separate fact from fiction.

That’s where the pros come in.

Working with a REALTOR® ensures that you're getting accurate, up-to-date, and local insights into the real estate market. But if you're still in the early stages of your buying or selling journey, we asked REALTORS® across Canada to weigh in and answer some of the most commonly Googled real estate questions to help guide you in the right direction.

1. What are the steps to buying a home in Canada as a first-time home buyer?

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but having a step-by-step plan helps. Here’s a simplified version:

1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage.

2. Hire a REALTOR® to guide you through the process.

3. Start your home search and attend showings.

4. Make an offer when you find the right home.

5. Schedule a home inspection.

6. Finalize your financing.

7. Close the deal and get the keys!

Bonus tip: Look into First-Time Home Buyer Incentives and rebates available in your province.

2. Should I buy or rent a home?

It depends on your lifestyle, financial goals, and how long you plan to stay in one place.

• Buy if you're looking to build equity, settle down, or take advantage of market appreciation.

• Rent if you value flexibility, are saving for a down payment, or plan to move within a few years.

A REALTOR® can help you crunch the numbers and evaluate what makes the most sense for you.

3. What should I expect during the closing period?

The closing period is the time between your offer being accepted and the official transfer of ownership. Expect to:

• Sign lots of paperwork

• Work with your lender to finalize your mortgage

• Coordinate with your lawyer and REALTOR®

• Do a final walkthrough

• Pay your closing costs (including legal fees, land transfer tax, etc.)

4. Can a REALTOR® help me with rentals?

Absolutely! While not all REALTORS® specialize in rentals, many do. They can help you find reputable listings, negotiate terms, and ensure your lease agreement protects your rights.

5. What are some common home buying mistakes and how do I avoid them?

Top mistakes include:

• Skipping mortgage pre-approval

• Not budgeting for closing costs

• Falling in love with a home outside your budget

• Skipping the home inspection

• Going it alone without professional guidance

Avoid these by working with a REALTOR®, staying financially prepared, and asking questions every step of the way.

6. How do I handle multiple offers on my property?

Receiving multiple offers is exciting—but also strategic. Your REALTOR® will help you:

• Review each offer carefully (it's not just about price!)

• Consider conditions and buyer flexibility

• Negotiate to get the best possible terms

In some cases, you may hold a "bidding war" or ask for the highest and best offers.

7. Why do I need to work with a REALTOR®?

REALTORS® bring local market knowledge, negotiation expertise, and access to MLS® listings that you won’t find on public sites. They also:

• Help you avoid costly mistakes

• Act in your best interest

• Make the process smoother from start to finish

Think of them as your guide and advocate in a complex transaction.

8. How do I assess the long-term value of a property?

Key factors include:

• Location (schools, transit, development plans)

• Condition and potential for renovations

• Market trends and comparable sales

• Future resale value

Your REALTOR® can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help you assess if a home is priced fairly and a good long-term investment.

9. What’s the difference between a pre-inspection and a home inspection?

• Pre-inspection: Done before listing a home to spot issues early. It can make a home more attractive to buyers.

• Home inspection: Done after an offer is accepted (often by the buyer) to identify any hidden concerns before finalizing the purchase.

Both are important tools in ensuring a smooth transaction.

10. Can I negotiate the asking price of a property—even in a seller’s market?

Yes, but it depends on the specific property and market conditions. In a hot market, homes may sell for over asking. However, your REALTOR® can guide you on:

• When to offer below asking

• How to craft a competitive offer

• What other terms might strengthen your position

11. Should I buy a home with a pool?

A pool can be a great feature—but it’s not for everyone. Consider:

• Ongoing maintenance and insurance costs

• How often you’ll use it

• Impact on resale (pools may not appeal to all buyers)

Talk to your REALTOR® about whether it aligns with your lifestyle and market trends in your area.

12. What’s the difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved?

• Pre-qualified: A basic estimate based on self-reported financials. It’s a good starting point, but not a guarantee.

• Pre-approved: A more thorough process that involves verifying your income, credit, and documents. This gives you a much stronger position when making an offer.

Always aim for pre-approval before house hunting!

Final Thoughts

While it’s easy to Google real estate questions, nothing beats the guidance of a trusted REALTOR®. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your family home, or somewhere in between, having a real expert in your corner makes all the difference.

Need real estate advice tailored to you?
Connect with our team, we ready to help you make your next move with confidence.

Owning an inground pool is like having your own little retreat just steps from your back door—weekend swims, poolside lounging, and memories made with friends and family. But let’s be honest: behind every picture-perfect pool day is some good old-fashioned maintenance.

If you're a new pool owner or just want to keep things running smoothly this summer, here’s a simple breakdown of what it takes to keep that water sparkling and swim-ready.

Start with the Basics: Test and Balance Your Water

Think of your pool water like a science experiment. It needs the right mix of elements to stay clean and safe.

• Test often – Aim for once a week using test strips or a test kit. You’ll want to keep an eye on pH, chlorine, and alkalinity.

• Target that perfect pH – Somewhere between 7.2 and 7.8 keeps the water comfy and your pool equipment happy.

• Keep it sanitized – Make sure chlorine stays between 1-3 ppm to keep bacteria out and the water clear.

Stay on Top of Cleaning

A few minutes a day can save you hours later.

• Skim daily – Leaves, bugs, and other debris are easier to remove before they sink.

• Brush and vacuum weekly – Don’t let algae settle in. A robotic pool vacuum can be a game-changer.

• Empty the skimmer basket – A clogged basket slows down filtration and water flow.

Check Your Equipment Often

Your pump, filter, and accessories do the heavy lifting. Make sure they’re in good shape.

• Run the pump 8–12 hours a day – It keeps the water circulating and filtered.

• Clean or change the filter as needed – A dirty filter = cloudy water.

• Inspect ladders and rails – Safety first! Look for rust or loose parts.

• Backwash when necessary – For sand or DE filters, backwash every few weeks to keep things flowing smoothly.

Winterize Like a Pro

If you're in a colder region, don't skip this step when pool season winds down.

• Balance the water before closing – Adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

• Clean and cover – A tight-fitting, durable cover helps keep your pool clean over the winter.

• Drain equipment – This prevents freezing and expensive damage.

Book a Yearly Pro Inspection

Even if you’ve got everything running like clockwork, a second set of eyes never hurts.

• Annual service checks – A certified technician can spot problems early and save you money.

• Suspect a leak? – If your water levels drop suddenly, don’t wait get it checked out ASAP.

Make It Yours

Once everything’s running smooth, it’s time to add your personal touch. Upgrade your landscaping, hang some string lights, or bring in cozy lounge chairs. Your pool should feel like an extension of your home so make it a space you genuinely enjoy.

💬 Have Poolside Dreams and Real Estate Goals? Ty Can Help.

Whether you’re upgrading to a home with a pool or selling your current place for something new, Ty knows how to navigate the market and get results. Let’s chat about your next move and maybe swap pool care tips while we’re at it. 😉

The sunshine is sticking around a little longer, the air is feeling warmer, and for many Canadians, that can only mean one thing—cottage season is right around the corner! With the Victoria Day long weekend fast approaching, thousands of families are prepping to open up their beloved summer getaways.

But before you kick back on the dock with a cold drink in hand, there’s some work to do. If your cottage sat empty all winter, it needs a little TLC before it's ready for another season of memory-making.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your cottage ready for summer—stress-free and safe.

Start Before You Hit the Road

Cottage season prep begins before you even arrive. In the weeks leading up to your trip, reconnect with essential service providers and make sure everything is lined up.

✔️ Call your utility companies to restart services like electricity, internet, propane, and gas
✔️ Reinstate garbage pickup or water delivery if it was paused
✔️ Schedule appointments for chimney sweeping or septic inspections
✔️ Double-check your cottage insurance—and if you have boats, trailers, or ATVs, review those policies too

And don’t forget your “open-up kit”: keys, tools, cleaning supplies, fresh batteries, light bulbs, pest control, and anything else that might save you a trip to the nearest hardware store.

Walk the Property First

Once you arrive, give your lot a good once-over before diving in. Look for any damage caused by winter storms or critters looking for shelter.

🔎 Check the roof for loose shingles, gutters for blockages, and look out for fallen branches
🔎 Inspect decks, siding, and windows for signs of wear or rot
🔎 Watch for signs of animal intruders or broken seals that might’ve let the cold in

When you step inside, open all the windows to get air circulating. Look for damp spots, musty smells, or any signs of mold around windows and doors. If anything serious pops up, give your insurance provider a heads-up right away.

Restore Water & Power Safely

Now that the space has been inspected, it’s time to bring the essentials back to life.

For water:
✅ Check for cracked or disconnected pipes
✅ Reconnect plumbing and turn on the main valve slowly
✅ Flush the system and change filters if needed

Cottages with lake-drawn or well water systems might need some extra care—or a professional checkup.

For power:
✅ Look over exterior power lines and your meter for damage
✅ Flip the main breaker, then test outlets and appliances one by one

Refresh Your Outdoor Spaces

Summer isn’t summer without a great outdoor setup. So before the long weekend BBQs begin, show your yard, deck, and dock some love.

🌿 Rake up any branches, leaves, and leftover debris
🌿 Trim overgrown plants and remove dead limbs from trees
🌿 Inspect the dock for loose boards or signs of water damage
🌿 Clean and inspect outdoor furniture, BBQs, firepits, and recreational gear

Tip: Add fresh flowers, string lights, or new cushions to instantly boost that cozy cottage vibe.

Stock Up on the Essentials

Before you settle into cottage mode, run through a quick safety checklist:

✔️ Replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors
✔️ Refill the first aid kit and inspect fire extinguishers
✔️ Swap out HVAC filters if you have a central air system

Small details like these can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a worry-free season.

Ready, Set, Relax!
Once the work is done, the only thing left to do is sit back, breathe in that fresh lakeside air, and enjoy everything cottage life has to offer.

Image Suggestion for the Blog

Scene Description:
A cozy lakeside cottage at golden hour with open windows, a freshly swept deck, Adirondack chairs (Muskoka style), and someone sipping coffee or wine while looking at the lake. There’s a rake and some gardening tools set aside, hinting that the work is done and it’s time to relax.

Would you like me to generate that image for you now?

Thinking of Buying or Selling a Cottage This Season?

Whether you're opening your cottage for another summer of memories or dreaming about owning your own lakeside escape, Ty's here to help. From market insights to tailored real estate guidance, he's just a call or message away.