Wishing you a lovely and safe Easter weekend from The Agent DK family to yours! We hope the Easter Bunny leaves you lots of chocolate! 
Tag Archives: Military Relocation Real Estate Agents
Looking to Buy a Cottage?
8 Things To Consider Before Making Your Purchase
Buying a home is a great accomplishment for many, but buying a cottage can feel like a dream come true. With aspirations of kicking back next to the lake and enjoying the solitude that comes with cottage life, residents in Ontario are now more than ever eager to find their own slice of paradise. While the luxury of this second property may offer an excellent way to break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some solitude, it is also an ample opportunity to earn income or to begin investing in Real Estate. But before you begin hours of globetrotting in search of the getaway home of your dreams, be sure to consider everything that owning a cottage entails; Speak with your THE AGENT DK TEAM for tips on where to look, what to steer clear of, or for help in finding you that dream getaway. These are all big decisions to be made, and you should wait until you have the knowledge and information needed to get the most out of your property so that you can enjoy it for years to come. In the meantime, here are some considerations that should be made when looking to purchase your first cottage.
What is your Goal?
Prior to your search, ensure that you understand your goal in owning a cottage: Are you looking for a summer getaway spot, or a 4 season cottage to visit year round; Do you desire solitude or is a community with neighbouring properties something that peaks your interest; Is water access a need, or does swimming and other water activities rank low on your list of must haves; and finally, is this property for personal enjoyment, retirement plans, an investment opportunity, or as a means to earn steady income. Once you know exactly what you want, you have a better idea of what it is that you should be looking for.
Costs
It is important to understand that the costs of operating a cottage differ from that of your primary residence. For instance, insurance alone can have higher rates due to the fact you are not there as often to check up on the home, and often have additional stipulations such as checking the property regularly in order to maintain the validity of the insurance policy. Other costs to consider when purchasing a cottage include hydro rates which may be delivered at a higher rate in rural areas, seasonal maintenance, property taxes, garbage disposal and recycling services, and the cost or availability of internet.
Access
Some cottages are very remote, making for unique factors in terms of accessibility. Before purchasing your cottage, it would be important to evaluate how you access the property throughout different seasons or any obstacles that may prevent you from enjoying your experience as a cottage owner to the fullest. Some potential hindrances include whether or not the property is accessible by land, the proximity in which you can park your car, the landscape surrounding the cottage, and whether or not you will have to climb stairs for water access.
Water and Septic Systems
As most cottages are located in rural areas, water systems and septic tanks usually coincide with ownership. Before purchasing your piece of paradise, be sure to understand whether or not the water available is safe for drinking, or if you need to bring your own supply each time you visit; If your cottage water supply runs from a well, you will need to incorporate in your expenses the cost to have the water tested regularly. If there is a septic system that the cottage uses, you should ensure that it is in good working condition and consider the costs that come alongside any regular maintenance; In addition, it would be good to receive proof of previous maintenance, inspections and approval reports obtained by the previous owners.
Amenities
Amenities are usually a big check on every homeowners list of requirements, but can often be prematurely dismissed when on the hunt for a cottage. Cross reference the importance of amenities alongside your list of goals in cottage ownership. If you are looking for a place to retire, you may want to have the essentials within a short drive; If you plan to rent your cottage out for vacations, certain amenities may increase the demand of your property allowing you to charge a higher rate than cottages without.
Rentability
If you are looking to rent out your cottage to others as a means of income through websites such as AirBnB, ensuring your space meets the needs of cottage goers is essential to your success. What would you be looking for when renting out a cottage for your vacation? Things like waterfront access, availability of clean drinking water, accessibility, direction, amenities, and internet access are commonly sought out by renters when planning their vacation. Be sure to take these into consideration when searching for your rural getaway attraction.
Local Laws and Property Restrictions
Once you have purchased your cottage, you may have big dreams to build docks, workshops, or expand and upgrade the dwelling to meet more modern demands. Unfortunately, with building restrictions, by-laws, crown patent and waterfront issues this is not always the easiest process to initiate. In some cases, despite having waterfront access right off of your property, you may not have exclusive rights to the shoreline. Look to your Real Estate professional or Lawyer for help navigating and understanding your rights as an owner in respect to cottage and lake associations, local legislations, and any other official plans or restrictions.
Mortgage requirements
Typically, those who are looking to invest in a cottage already own a primary residence. If this is the case, it is good to understand that you will need a minimum payment of 20% as your down payment on a second property. If your cottage does not have year round access, a larger down payment may be requested among other requirements in order to obtain financing from a lender. Securing a mortgage for a second property will depend largely on the type of property you are looking for, and your income to debt ratio. Be sure to speak with your bank or lender, or Contact The Agent DK Team for help with obtaining information on how to be approved for your second mortgage.
Front Walkway Improvements that Boost Curb Appeal
Simple walkway fixes that will make your listed home look more appealing.
Your front walkway is one of the first sections of real estate a buyer will set
foot on when coming to see your home. So, it makes sense to make that
pathway to your front door as appealing as possible.
The obvious way is to make it as clean and clear as you can. Ensure there
are no obstacles in the way, such as overhanging branches, kid’s toys, or
potted plants. What you want is a clear, unobstructed and pleasant walk to
your main entranceway.
If your walkway needs deeper cleaning, consider a powerwash. There are
special detergents available that are designed specifically for stone, asphalt
or cement walkways and other outdoor surfaces.
A deep cleaning isn’t a major project. In most cases, the job can be done
within an hour. Yet, the result can be stunning.
If you’re selling your home in the spring or summer, another way to make your walkway look better is to add flowers or other plants along the sides. Don’t overdo it.
You only need a few flowers or a couple of shrubs to make a big difference.
The great thing about adding a few flowers or shrubs is the impact they can
have on your entire frontage making it more attractive, and adding to your
home’s overall curb appeal.
Making your walkway look better may seem minor, but keep in mind that
when buyers make their way to your front door, they’re forming their first and
often most important impression of your property. The walkway plays a small
but important role in making it a good one.
Want more ideas for making your home show better, so it sells quicker and
for a higher price? Call The Agent DK Team at 613-883-5555 for all of your Ottawa Real Estate Needs!
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HELLO SPRING!
What a beautiful day in Ottawa! In the next few weeks, flowers will be sprouting up, and we’ll hear countless birds chirping and see them flying overhead on a regular basis. We’ll watch the rain fall poetically to renew the Earth surrounding us, and maybe we’ll take the kids and their laughter outside to jump in puddles afterward. Our walks throughout the neighborhood will require less layers with each passing week, and hopefully our fears will shed as well as we see hope continuing on all around us. We all need this shift in season and we hope that we see more positive changes ahead.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! This year looks a little different but it doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun and support a good cause.St. Patrick’s Day – Online Zoom Party put on by Rock da’ Houze! Saturday March 20, 2021 starting at 10PM (EST) until 2AM (EST) with a live DJ Performance from 10PM (EST) until 2AM (EST).
Rock da’ Houze is a proud supporter of Mental Health with 10% of all proceeds going to the Canadian Mental Health Association.Get your tickets today and don’t forget to invite your friends to join with you! On the day of the party cast your device to your TV and crank up the volume – you’ll be dancing all night.Get Ready to Rock da’ Houze buy getting your tickets here!
Featured Community: Stittsville
Stittsville Residents and Life in the Village
Stittsville is an extraordinary place to call home. One of the many advantages is that everyone is very friendly. As so many families are “new,” there is a real sense of building the neighbourhoods. The entire community pitches in to support local causes and charities, such as the Stittsville Lions Bottle drive for Childhood Cancer/Ronald McDonald House. New families are welcomed to the many clubs, activities and sports teams. The residents of Stittsville are an integral part of what makes this community feel so inviting and friendly. Small communities are unique because it is very easy to make new friends and have you feel at home.
Residents of Stittsville
Stittsville has a full range of residents from families with children, retirees, business professionals, couples without children, and singles. This diverse population is due to the many business opportunities coupled with attractive neighbourhoods and green space, schools, and public transportation. One reason for such a diverse group is the short distance to Canada’s largest technology park, located in Kanata North.
Many military families have also found the area a great place to call home while working at the National Defence Headquarters on Carling Ave and the Shirley’s Bay facilities. Many also work in other areas of Ottawa. Stittsville has many new neighbourhoods that have been specifically developed to cater to seniors. Other neighbourhoods are perfect for single people and families of all ages and lifestyles. Whether you are looking for a bungalow to downsize or a home for your growing family, Stittsville has everything needed to live a healthy and happy life.
Where To Live In Stittsville?
Stittsville has several wonderful neighbourhoods that have just the right home for all types of families; these include:
Old Stittsville, Main Street./Crossing Bridge
- Fernbank Crossing
- Edenwylde
- Fringewood
- Granite Ridge
- Jackson Trails
- Poole Creek
- Timbermere
- Fairwinds
- Deer Run
- Crossing Bridge
- Bryanston Gate
- Amberwood
- Potter’s Key
- Westridge
Events And Attractions
There are many events and activities in Stittsville. The Stittsville Village Association helps to organize many of the well-attended events such as the annual Parade of Lights (November/December), Canada Day (July 1), and Arts in the Park (June), Cinema under the stars as well as other activities such as the Weekly Walking Group throughout the year. Stittsville’s Carp Road Flea Market is a fantastic place to find just about anything. The Stittsville Public library has many excellent services and activities such as Virtual Genealogy Drop-In assistance and Online Tutoring and Homework Help for Children.
Stittsville is very fortunate to be just minutes away from The Canadian Tire Centre. It is the home of the Ottawa Senators. It also hosts many world-class musicians and entertainers and unique children’s shows like Disney On Ice and Paw Patrol Live. Located only minutes from this community is Ottawa’s largest outdoor shopping mall, Tanger,. There are several excellent golf courses in the area. However, the Amberwood Village Golf & Country Club has a special place in the life of Stittsville.
Stittsville’s Favourite Restaurants
There is a restaurant for every palette in Stittsville. No matter the restaurant, you will usually run into someone you know. There is an astonishing number of excellent restaurants offering everything from fine dining to pizza and subs. The ALE – the Amberwood Lounge & Eatery offers fine dining overlooking the beautiful golf course. Cabotto’s, located in a beautiful historic building, serves traditional Italian pasta dishes.
The Vietnamese Pho House offers very fresh and tasty meals. There are even several very friendly pubs in the area. The Barley Mow, on Main Street, has a great atmosphere and food. The Brew Revolution has British pasties and beer. At the same time, the Glen Scottish Pub and Restaurant is famous for its Scottish food. Looking for the Mediterranean taste, check out Classic Shawarma: It has donair sandwiches, various platters, combo options and family platters. If you are looking for a sweet treat, try the Red Gables Creperie. Napoli’s, NeXT, Quitters, Maverick’s are also great dining options.
Historic Centre
Stittsville has a long and fascinating history. It was a British Military garrison in the 19th century. The Village started as a small collection of houses and shops located at what is now the intersection of the Carp and Hazeldean Roads. The Village grew as it added a blacksmith, store and an inn. When the Village got its first post office in 1854, Jackson Stitt was the postmaster, so the Village was named Stittsville. After a devastating fire in 1870 that destroyed many farms, the few remaining buildings became known as Old Stittsville. The Village then became a railway centre, and the population increased. The connection of water and sewer systems in the early 1980s caused the rapid expansion of the area. The population has grown very quickly, and Stittsville remains one of the fastest-growing communities in the Ottawa Region. Many areas of natural beauty still surround Stittsville. One way to enjoy the area is to take a walk or bike ride along the Trans Canada Trail.
Full-Service Stittsville
Stittsville is one of the fastest-growing and exciting communities in Ottawa. It has everything you will ever need or want. Additionally, there is beautiful green space and the fantastic Trans Canada Trail. Stittsville has many employment opportunities in the area and nearby in Kanata. And a short drive to the Canadian Tire Centre. The transportation connections are outstanding with OC Transpo, and you are always close to the highway. Stittsville is a great place to call home. There are all the stores, large and small, you will ever need, there are community activities and excellent restaurants to enjoy with family and friends.
You will be proud to call Stittsville home
Call The Agent DK Team Today to find your Stittsville Home!
Happy International Women’s Day!
This year, the International Women’s Day organization’s message is “A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change. So let’s all choose to challenge. How will you help forge a gender equal world? Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality.” At Royal LePage & The Agent DK Team, we celebrate women like yourself by raising awareness and celebrating their achievements. The Agent DK Team is proud to celebrate the Powerful Women on our team: Dani, Mel, Alena, Silvi, Freda & Xena! They are constantly moving goals and aspirations forward.
We are lucky to have them as part of our team!
How are you celebrating Women International’s Day? Celebrate International Women’s day with these events!
Ottawa Real Estate Snapshot – February 2021
The February 2021 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out!
Market Snapshot: Low inventory is causing properties to “fly off the shelves”. With a record number of sales for the month, residential homes being listed are on the market for an average of 14 days which is a significant drop from the average 30 days in February of 2020.
If you’re considering a move our Experienced Real Estate Agents are here to help answer any questions you have, in this market you’ll want a qualified, professional real estate company protecting your interests. Call the Agent DK Team for all your Real Estate Needs at 613-883-5555!
What Kind of House are you?
Buying a home is an exciting time for you, and there are so many choices when it comes to housing styles, are you a bungalow, a stacked condo, a single-family dwelling? Each of these styles of homes can be found in neighbourhoods with different characteristics, making it essential to determine which one is most representative of your wants, needs and abilities. Understanding the importance of lifestyle and personality traits and how they work best with different types of neighbourhoods can save you from the dreaded “Buyer’s Remorse.” So whether you are a working professional, retiree, or if you’ve got a large family, take a look at the list below and determine which style of house you are before handing over that downpayment.
Wondering what style of house you are? Find out here.
Listing your Home in Winter.
With snow and slush dampening your summertime landscaping efforts, you may feel like people won’t be able to get the first impression that your home deserves. Fortunately, there are many different ways to elevate your curb appeal in the snowy season.
Listing your home in the winter may not seem like the most appealing option to sellers, but the fact is that there are more serious buyers in the game during the cold season. See here for 5 ways to attract attention to your listing, and sell your home right this winter. The Agent DK Team is here and ready to help any time of year! Call us at 613-883-5555.
Is Home Staging Worth the Effort?
Is Home Staging Worth the Effort?
Staging is all about dressing up your home so that it looks its best to buyers.
This can involve anything from rearranging furniture and doing some home
improvements, to painting and redecorating, to even replacing existing
furnishings and other items. The goal is to make key rooms look worthy of a
magazine cover!
But is it worth the effort? Can’t you just clean and tidy and, perhaps, do a little
painting?
Sometimes you can — especially if your home is in high demand and likely to
get multiple offers.
However, in most cases, staging can help sell your property faster and for a
higher price.
In fact, studies done by the home staging industry consistently reveal that
staged homes sell for an average of 5-23% above list price. (That varies, of
course, depending on the local market.)
Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to do extensive staging. You
may, for example, be able to focus on only key rooms on the main floor —
where buyers tend to form their lasting impressions — and then simply clean
and declutter the other rooms.
When it comes to staging, you have many options. Each home is different
and will have different staging needs.
We provide staging services to help get you top dollar! Call Ottawa’s Top Realtors – The Agent DK Team
today at 613-883-5555 for more information.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Wishing you all a Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at The Agent DK Team!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Happy Chinese New Year from The Agent DK Team!
Happy Chinese New Year! It is the Year of the Ox. The Ox is the second of all zodiac animals. According to one myth, the Jade Emperor said the order would be decided by the order in which they arrived to his party. The Ox was about to be the first to arrive, but Rat tricked Ox into giving him a ride. Then, just as they arrived, Rat jumped down and landed ahead of Ox. Thus, Ox became the second animal. Click Here To learn more about Chinese New Year
Featured Community – Westboro
Welcome to Westboro
Westboro is a culture-filled, fun, and lively community located just west of Ottawa’s downtown core, with a population of around 23,000. Scenic views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills, trendy shops, restaurants, and lots of outdoor space make it is easy to see why this picturesque neighbourhood is such a highly sought after place to call home. Residents of the area feel a sense of community pride, which they show by participating and hosting many community events. Westborites do not hesitate to show their warm, welcoming attitude that highlights this charming village true spirit.
Could moving to Westboro be Right For You?
This trendy neighbourhood close to the city centre is replete with local businesses, shops and restaurants. Teeming with spaces for outdoor activities and fresh air make it a wonderful urban village setting for those who live here and those visiting.
Commuting from Westboro can feel like a dream with its eco-friendly travel on the LRT. For those who prefer a more scenic commute, the Western Parkway runs along the Ottawa River, and for health enthusiasts, there are bike paths. An effortless connection to the Queensway (Ottawa’s main east-west thoroughfare) can take you across the city in no time.
With its wide sidewalks and plenty of parking, Richmond Road is the primary retail strip offering a wide variety of shops and services. Unique storefronts, together with a high walkability score, give this charming neighbourhood everything you need to feel the quaintness of a small town despite the proximity to the core of busy downtown Ottawa.
Reasons to move to Westboro
Scenic community bordering the Ottawa River, with views of Gatineau Hills.
Welcoming residents and a sense of community spirit felt by owners, renters, and visitors alike.
Urban revitalization with many new condo developments and infill housing and restorations.
Proximity to the city’s downtown core.
Local schools, over 200 shops, pharmacies, and restaurants.
Variety of homes available, early twentieth century homes, along with newer developments for owners and renters.
Westboro residents and their trendy, urban lifestyle.
Westboro is a mature neighbourhood with tree-lined streets and a mix of mid-century and new- infill homes and luxury condominium buildings. The residents of this neighbourhood differ in ages and stages of life, with lots of retirees, young families, and business professionals residing within its borders. There is a sense of togetherness when it comes to why they chose Westboro as their home. It has something for everyone from its whimsical, active, small-town feel with amenities, transportation, and local businesses and its proximity to the scenic Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills. Residents and visitors take advantage of the Ottawa River trails for running, cycling, and rollerblading. It is clear that people of all lifestyles greatly enjoy their home and place in this active community and are welcoming towards newcomers looking to settle in.
Residents of Westboro
Westboro is one of the true gems of Ottawa, perfectly situated at the heart of our community. The Ottawa River continues to be a focal point of the neighbourhood. The combination of fascinating history, beautiful tree-lined streets, proximity to the Ottawa river, bike paths and unequalled cultural and culinary opportunities makes it truly unique.
Westboro caters to all interests and activities. It has everything from beautifully painted wall murals, sidewalk statutes to outdoor sports. Shopping is outstanding, and the area has everything from camping and outdoor supplies to high fashion boutiques. You are never far from walking and bicycle paths along the Ottawa River. Looking for world-class dining, walk along Richmond road; you will find every kind of excellent restaurant to satisfy any palate.
Westboro is one of the most sought after and trendiest neighbourhoods in Ottawa and is a highly sought-after place to live. It is also extraordinary because many of its residents work within a short distance from home. They can commute by walking, riding their bike or using OC Transpo. It is a vibrant and lively community with a powerful spirit.
Events And Attractions
Are you looking for something to do in Westboro? This active community has an abundance of activities and attractions to keep its residents busy, stimulated, and on the move. Explore the community with the annual “Shop the Village Event,” where everyone receives a canvas bag of special offers and coupons and are encouraged to check out the shops within the community and hopefully scoop up some great local deals. Additionally, running until 2025, you can experience “La nature en Ville Westboro Nature Walk,” an outdoor photography exhibition put on by renowned wildlife photographer Michelle Valberg. Her photos wrap around 9 utility boxes from Golden Avenue to Island Park, providing culture, beauty, and art along Westboro’s streets. For musical entertainment, residents of Westboro enjoy Westfest every June. Westfest is an outdoor music festival featuring local Canadian performers. Secondary to the performers, there is also a market with local vendors, a kid zone with family-friendly activities and many other features that make this event worthwhile.
If you are looking for more ways to partake in the active lifestyle that the community offers, The Western Parkway, closes to traffic on Sundays throughout the summer to offer bike days to locals and visitors looking to enjoy the scenery. Westboro Beach is also a popular attraction, with year-round sunsets to take in and a tiki bar, grill, and live music at the Westboro Beach Cafe throughout the summer. Remic Rapids and Bates Island are also excellent stops to enjoy the natural beauty that Westboro offers.
Westboro’s Favourite Restaurants
Attention Foodies, Westboro is the town for you! Westboro offers an abundance of places to enjoy a meal, whether it be breakfast, brunch, lunch, supper or just a nice treat or coffee to enjoy. Start your day at the Baker Street Cafe, Savoy Brasserie, or Chez Francois for delicious and unique breakfast/brunch options. You may need to make a reservation, though, as these places are popular and usually fill up pretty quickly! Coffee Shops abound with options to satisfy even the most discriminating connoisseurs. Lunch options vary from the food truck “Bite This” pub lunches like Barley Mow and Clocktower, burgers from “The Works” and diners like Newport and Savoy Brasserie. For lighter options or vegetarian and vegan diets, Westboro is also home to Freshii and Pure Kitchen. Fine dining is offered at Gezellig, Lexington Smoke House and Fratelli’s. For those with a sweet tooth, you will find Batter up Bakery, Quelque-Chose of course, there is a Dairy Queen. With such a wide variety of wonderful places to eat in this village, you’ll be adjusting your budget in no time to make room to try all of these dine-out options.
If you’re looking to buy or sell in Westboro, call The Agent DK Team at 613-883-5555, one of our Top Real Estate Agents are on standby to help you with all your Ottawa Real Estate Needs!