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Water Safety this Summer
We are seeing a huge trend of people camping, hanging out at local beaches and spending time at cottages this summer, making it important to bring awareness to the subject of drowning. Despite a downward trend, drowning is still the third leading cause of death in Canada. Drowning can be prevented! Join the Lifesaving Society Canada in bringing awareness to the drowning problem during National Drowning Prevention Week from July 18–24, 2021.
Over 400 people fatally drown annually in Canada, making it the second leading cause of unintentional death for children and the third leading cause of unintentional death for adults. Statistics show that almost 70% of drowning fatalities never intended to go into the water and were often within 15 metres of safety. Nearly every Canadian has known someone who has drowned or had a non-fatal drowning experience, whether personally or from his or her community.
To help reduce drowning, all Canadians are encouraged to:
• Learn the Lifesaving Society Swim to Survive standard (teaches how to survive an unexpected fall into the water) and participate in a learn-to-swim program.
• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when out on a boat.
• Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages while participating in aquatic activities.
• Ensure that children are under the direct supervision of an adult when around barrier-free bodies of water.
Click here to learn more ways to stay safe this Summer!
Community Highlight: Almonte
Almonte is a beautiful town that is host to schools, recreational facilities, social and cultural activities, medical facilities and shops and restaurants of all kinds. It is a charming, historical town where people know their neighbours and kids make friends and play outside. Those who live in Almonte know that it is a picture perfect area to call home.
Lifestyle: Could moving to Almonte be right for you?
Just a twenty-minute drive to Kanata, and forty-five minutes to downtown Ottawa, Almonte is an area that is an easy commute for those who work in the city, and many do! There is a local bus service that will take you to and from Ottawa from Monday to Friday. The hub of this historic town starts on Mill Street. Filled with plentiful shopping and boutiques, Almonte has an array of locally-owned niche stores, along with historical sites featuring the town’s transformation and notable persons, such as Canadian inventor Dr. James Naismith. With the Mississippi River providing beautiful scenery, the Victoria Woollen Mill is a must-see, showing off the incredible force of the river crashing over the falls. In addition to the beautiful small-town ambiance, Almonte is home to many commercial stores and shopping areas that have all your needs covered; with chain shops locally available for pharmacy, grocery, pets, and home repair needs, you are sure to be pleased with the selection available right in town, ensuring you won’t have to make many trips to the big cities for the every-day essentials.
Reasons to move to Almonte
- Beautiful town along the Mississippi River featuring a rich culture and heritage
- Growing community
- Exciting business opportunities
- Local schools, medical facilities, and other amenities
- Variety of homes available
- More home for your money compared with many areas in Ottawa
Almonte residents and small-town lifestyle
The residents of Almonte are an integral part of what makes this community feel so welcoming. It is a vibrant and exciting place to live, with activities targeted for the entire family. While Over 30 % of families in town have children, there is also an active adult and singles community, along with a strong segment of people approaching retirement who look forward to staying and settling in the town. Whether you are looking for a heritage home on the water or have a lifestyle more suitable for condominium living, the small-town feel and walkability are features that everyone can fall in love with. Almonte is a cultural centre and “arts-hub” that speaks to millennials, families, and retirees alike. If you enjoy an array of cultures and arts, there will be groups and spaces in Almonte that cater deeply to your interests.
Events and attractions
Aside from the culture of the town, Almonte features many annual activities. Home to the Almonte Celtfest, Almonte provides a great weekend of Ottawa Valley and Celtic entertainment. Additionally, Almonte’s Annual Fair is a classic country event held in Gemmill Park that has been taking place since 1858. Another great show is The Almonte in Concert, which provides a series of chamber music concerts held at the Almonte Old Town Hall. While there are many more events and cultural activities in Almonte and the surrounding area, one true favourite is the North Lanark Highland Games featuring pipe bands, highland games, specialty shops, and food booths. The world-famous Mill of Kintail is in close proximity to Almonte. The Mill and Conservation Area is beautiful to visit and walk or ski on the trails year-round. Also visit the R. Tait McKenzie Museum, featuring a world-class collection of Canadian paintings and enjoy the serenity of this special place just as Canadian painter A.Y. Jackson did. Don’t miss out on what Almonte has to offer, be sure to take in all that these special activities, museums, and historical sites bring to this small-town.
Favorite restaurants
Stop and have lunch at one of the many restaurants in town. With many amazing restaurants in Almonte, it is hard to feature just a few. Steps away from our office is the Heirloom Cafe & Bistro, Café Postino, The Mill Street Crepe Company, Joe’s Italian Kitchen, and The Barley Mow. Almonte also features Equator Coffee, which is known for its locally roasted coffee and simply delicious menu. Home to one of Ontario’s craft breweries, the Crooked Mile brewery located on Ottawa Street offers quality ales and snacks, as well as a helpful roster of staff. Lastly, Hummingbird Chocolate ranks among the world’s chocolate elite. Additionally, they have recently been working with Canopy Growth and Tweed of Smith Falls and have developed a line of adult-only candies.
Full-service Almonte
Almonte has everything you will need in your new community. There are excellent Public and Catholic Elementary Schools as well as the Almonte District High School and T.R. Leger School of Adult, Alternative and Continuing Education. The schools have very active programs for all age groups. The town is also home to recreational facilities open for all to use, which is great for encouraging healthy, active lifestyles. With shops and restaurants in close proximity, the community is home to many groups of people that take advantage of these amenities for socialization. Additionally, being the cultural and artistic “hot-spot” that it is, like-minded people take advantage of this to organize creative projects either individually or in small group settings. Lastly, Almonte is host to an array of other services such as hospitals, pharmacies, hardware stores, and museums, filled with friendly staff that make your time there feel welcomed and leave you feeling taken care of.
Where to live in Almonte?
Almonte is a growing and exciting community with a population on the rise. There are a variety of different types of homes, ranging from single-family, farms, rural houses with acreage, subdivisions with large lots, new custom builds, and even a few heritage homes, the needs of you and your family are sure to be met. There are also outstanding newer subdivisions located close to the town’s core. An added bonus that should not be overlooked, home prices are typically lower in Almonte than they are in Ottawa, making living in this beautiful historic town more affordable!
Business opportunities in Almonte
There are great commercial opportunities in this growing town for businesses looking to find a new home. With a Royal LePage Team Realty office in Almonte right on the main street, we know the area well…it is where we live and work too! The Agent DK Team can help you to find a commercial property to rent or buy in Almonte. Like residential real estate in Almonte, the costs are typically much lower costs than the big-city spaces.
“We love living in Almonte because it is a beautiful small town, with all the amenities within walking distance! It is also only a short drive to Kanata or Carleton Place, should you have shopping needs elsewhere. It also is safe; I can go for a run at 9:30 pm, and not be afraid of anything untoward happening. There are also so many events year round; farmers markets, shopping evenings, craft shows, etc. And there are lots of wonderful parks for kids and families to enjoy.”
OTTAWA REAL ESTATE MARKET SNAPSHOT: JUNE 2021
The June 2021 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out!
Market Snapshot: The last two weeks of June showed a slow down in volume of activity compared to May. This is typical for the time of year as people shift their focus to enjoying the nice weather. A sign that we are leveling out is the average sale price as we are not seeing a drastic month to month increase as previously experienced.
If you’re considering a move we’re here to help answer any questions you have, in this market you’ll want a qualified, professional real estate company to protect your interests. Message us anytime!
Mortgage Stress Test – Is This Important to Us?
Canada’s booming real estate market has pushed the Government regulator to increase the Stress Test. First introduced in Canada in 2018, the mortgage Stress Test for insured mortgages requires lenders to check that mortgage applicants could still make payments based on the higher of the Bank of Canada’s qualifying rate.
The Dynamic Ottawa Real Estate Market
COVID-19 tragically swept across Canada last year. It sadly changed many aspects of our lives. One of the areas that we did not anticipate was the impact on the residential real estate market. We have witnessed an unprecedented roller-coaster in-home sale in Ottawa.
The Federal Government has been concerned about the rising prices of homes across Canada. The fear has been that as debt levels have increased, homeowners may be more vulnerable when mortgage rates eventually increase. In addition, as inflation is rising, the costs of food, fuel and household expense are increasing. This will leave families with less money available to pay their mortgages.
Updated Stress Test
Canada’s booming real estate market has pushed the Government regulator to increase the Stress Test. First introduced in Canada in 2018, the mortgage Stress Test for mortgages requires lenders to check that mortgage applicants could still make payments based on the higher of the Bank of Canada’s qualifying rate.
To complete a Stress Test, mortgage lenders calculate the Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratios to determine if applicants have an income high enough and debt low enough to make mortgage payments based on the higher should rates increase. When your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you will need an insured mortgage. That is when the mortgage stress test comes into play.
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) revised the Mortgage Stress Test, which became effective on July 1, 2021. The OSFI stated that the new qualifying rate for uninsured mortgages “ensures that the financial system is adequately prepared for the possibility of a return to pre-pandemic economic conditions.” They want to ensure that borrowers can make their payments if the market returns to normal. To pass the Test, mortgage owners need to prove that they can qualify at either their contracted mortgage rate plus 2% or at the Bank of Canada’s five-year benchmark rate of 5.25%, whichever is higher. Check out the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada Mortgage Qualifier Tool to calculate your amounts https://itools-ioutils.fcac-acfc.gc.ca/MQ-HQ/MQ-EAPH-eng.aspx
What Does This Mean to Us?
The new Stress Test rules will make purchasing homes slightly more of a challenge for some first-time homebuyers. Most home buyers will not see a significant impact. When you are considering your mortgage options, always discuss your situation with your Royal Lepage Agent. Depending on your circumstances, you will want to review your household budget. Reducing discretionary spending or paying off debt may be a good idea. In addition, you may need to reduce your budget and pay off other debt to prove to your lender that you can afford the new mortgage.
Talk to your financial institution about lowering your monthly debt payments through debt consolidation to improve your TDS ratio, and always check your credit score. Also, consider looking at lower-priced homes with a smaller mortgage and therefore reducing your GDS ratio. Asking family members for financial help may be an option for some purchasers. By taking steps now to strengthen your mortgage application, you will improve your chances of getting a mortgage approved and improve your overall financial health. The good news is that many experts believe that mortgage rates will remain low well into 2022.
Consider Your Options
The impact of the Stress Test will primarily affect first-time homeowners. Purchasing a home for the first time can be challenging at best. Learn as much as you can about the new provisions of the Stress Test. Then consult with your Royal Lepage Team Agent and your lender. Always consider paying off current debt or discussing options with family members and check your credit score. With careful planning, the changes to the Stress Test should not significantly reduce your opportunity of homeownership and making your dream come true.
Canada Day 2021
This year, as we mark Canada Day, we reflect on the challenges that our country is facing as well as the ability and desire of Canadians from coast to coast to combat injustice and inequality across our great nation. The response to COVID-19 has resulted in countless everyday heroes showing that our compassion and commitment to each other is our strength.
We also recognize the urgent work and healing that must still take place to address atrocities experienced by Indigenous Peoples. There is a crucial call to action for this country to unite in pursuit of rebuilding a more inclusive and diverse Canada where the words “glorious and free” are a reality for all. We can do this together.
In the gracious words of Cadmus Delorme, Cowessess First Nation Chief, “In 2021, we all inherited this. Nobody today created residential schools. Nobody today created the Indian Act. Nobody today created the Sixties Scoop. But we all inherited this. And if we want to say we’re proud Canadians, then we will accept the beautiful country we have today, and we will accept what we all inherited. And what I would challenge is: Everybody on Canada Day in this country, if you say you’re a proud Canadian, read the Truth and Reconciliation ‘Calls to Action.’ Over 100,000 residential school survivors told their story – including my parents – and they created the Truth and Reconciliation ‘Calls to Action.’ Bring that into your personal life, your social life, your business life. And read the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls ‘Calls to Action.’ There’s 231 Calls to Action. If we can all own those a little bit in this country, in one generation we would overcome so many challenges today, that our next generation won’t inherit this. We will make them more as Dreamers.” The Truth and Reconciliation ‘Calls to Action’: http://trc.ca/assets/pdf/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls ‘Calls to Action’: https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/final-report/
Looking to Buy A Cottage?
As we make plans for the long weekend hopefully that includes heading to a cottage or take some time to sit back and relax surrounded by nature in some way. We are definitely seeing a trend this past year that more and more people are either buying cottages as a getaway or as their primary residence because they are working from home.
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; 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 call us at The Agent DK Team for help with obtaining information on how to be approved for your second mortgage.
Thank You Teachers!
If there is any year we should all be making sure we send an extra thank you to our favorite teachers, it’s this one.
We need to recognize our teachers for the superheroes that are shaping and moulding the children in our lives in a world that was flipped upside down. They rose to the challenge and we appreciate everything you did for our children.
Thank you!
Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the cultures, heritage, achievements and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Indigenous peoples of Canada.
Remember. Learn. Celebrate
Happy Father’s Day!
Happy Father’s Day to every dad out there. 👔✨
May you feel loved, treasured, and celebrated today and every day.
We thank you for all that you do. 💕
Summer Solstice
However you are spending your summer this year, just remember, it officially starts tomorrow.
Fun Fact: The summer solstice has long been celebrated by cultures around the world:
In Ancient Egypt, the summer solstice coincided with the rising of the Nile River. As it was crucial to predict this annual flooding, the Egyptian New Year began at this important solstice.
In centuries past, the Irish would cut hazel branches on solstice eve to be used in searching for gold, water, and precious jewels.
Many European cultures hold what are known as Midsummer celebrations at the solstice, which include gatherings at Stonehenge and the lighting of bonfires on hilltops.
However you are spending your summer this year, just remember, it officially starts tomorrow.
Community Highlight: Arnprior
Our featured community this month is Arnprior located in the beautiful Ottawa Valley!
This picturesque community is surrounded by rural areas where the Madawaka and Ottawa Rivers meet. Arnprior has experienced significant growth since Highway 417 was increased to four lanes. You will find a stunning natural environment, the community spirit of a small town, work in many high-paying jobs, and you are still only 30 minutes from Kanata. With many amenities available along with the small town charm, there is no doubt you will have it all living in this community. You will really enjoy the little slice of the Ottawa Valley that you call home.
Welcome to Arnprior
Arnprior is simply one of the best places to live in Eastern Ontario. It is a town in Renfrew County that enjoys a beautiful location where the Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers meet. Arnprior has been known for lumber, hydropower generation, aerospace, and farming for many years. Arnprior has experienced significant growth since Highway 417 was increased to four lanes. You will find a stunning natural environment, the community spirit of a small town, work in many high-paying jobs, and you are still only 30 minutes from Kanata.
Arnprior’s recreation facilities include four walking trails, a marina, three ball diamonds, a civic centre with two year-round ice surfaces, an indoor pool, and a curling rink. There are also two municipal beaches, 14 parks, and an airport that offers charter tours, skydiving and flying lessons.
Reasons to move to Arnprior
- Friendly country town on the banks of the Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers
- Proud of its history, while growing quickly
- Friendly country town on the banks of the Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers
- Many beautiful parks and nature trails
- Exciting business opportunities
- Local schools, medical facilities and other amenities
- Variety of homes available and more affordable than Ottawa
- Perfect for remote working, but close enough to go to the office when required
- 30 minutes to Kanata, the High-Tech Park and the Canadian Tire Centre
Proud History and an Exciting Future
The land occupied by today’s Arnprior is part of the traditional territory of the Algonquin Nation. Samuel de Champlain was the first European explorer to visit the area in 1613. Daniel McLachlin was one of the most successful businessmen in the area. He built a sawmill at the confluence of the Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers and expanded the community of Arnprior. The lumber industry kept a significant position until the closing of the Gillies Mill.
Arnprior was incorporated as a village in 1862, and in 1892, it was incorporated as a town. The town is the namesake of Arnprior, Scotland. The history of Arnprior is preserved and documented at the Arnprior and District Museum, and the Arnprior and McNab/Braeside Archives are located next door in the Public Library basement.
Surrounded by Nature
Outstanding areas of natural beauty surround Arnprior. The Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers provide fantastic opportunities for all types of water sports. The Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club set up the Macnamara Trail. The Trail has boardwalks, viewing platforms and benches that let visitors explore it without disturbing its wild character.
The Trail in the southeast corner of Arnprior allows you to enjoy both of Arnprior’s rivers. The Trail starts along the Madawaska River and through the hydro park. You then get a magnificent view of the confluence of the two rivers at Bell Park. Finally, you can enjoy a view of the Ottawa River at McLean Beach. The many rivers and lakes allow for lots of boating, fishing, and canoeing.
The Old Voyageur and Miner’s Trail is 2.3 km long near Arnprior and features a beautiful lake. The Trail offers several activity options and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this Trail but must be kept on a leash.
A Great Place to Do Business
The economy of Arnprior has gone from strength to strength. The highly educated workforce, the proximity to Ottawa, access to Highway 417, having a local airport, full services, and infrastructure have contributed to making Arnprior the location for multinational and Canadian companies. The Arnprior and Area Chamber of Commerce has over 100 members. It supports and advocates for corporations and small to medium-sized businesses. There are many excellent companies in Arnprior: Arnprior Aerospace Inc, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc, Nylene Canada Inc, Pacific Safety Products, Pillar 5 Pharma, and Sandvik Materials Technology Canada.
Some of the Many Attractions in Arnprior
- Arnprior Market is held on Sundays along John Street in Downtown Arnprior during the summer. The market sells everything from fresh produce and preservatives to unique crafts and giftware
- Robert Simpson Park has a beach, a splash pad, a canteen, and a bandstand where free live music can be found throughout the summer on Sundays from 2 – 4 pm. The Park also hosts the annual Priorpalooza Music Festival, which provides 12 hours of great music celebrating local artists
- White Pine Festival is a three-day event held all around Arnprior. It includes vendors, music, food, a highland dance competition and a movie in the Park
- The Arnprior Fair is a mix of musical entertainment, livestock shows, educational displays and rides.
So Many Great Neighbourhoods at Affordable Prices
Arnprior is an exciting, friendly, and growing town. It has a full range of housing options for everyone from singles to families. There are detached, semi-detached, multiples including townhouses and garden homes. Close to town, there are subdivisions and country houses with large plots of land. Whatever type of housing that you select, it will be more affordable in Arnprior.
Antrim Truck Stop
There are many excellent restaurants and service centres in the Arnprior area. The Antrim Truck Stop is the most famous, and it is well known to truck drivers, anyone driving by and many local community members. The services include gas pumps, truckers’ support and amenities, and the Hangar Restaurant. The restaurant has outstanding meals with a great variety. The Bakery has an exceptional choice of bread, rolls, squares, cookies, cakes, and pies. They also offer gluten-free products.
Come and Take a Look
Arnprior is the perfect town to call home. If you are a single-family with children or retirees, there is everything you will want or need in Arnprior. There are many good jobs in Arnprior; however, if you work in Kanata or Ottawa, there is just a short commute because of the excellent transport links that allow you to have a much larger home with lower monthly costsThere is a strong economy, affordable housing, natural scenery, and friendly communities. There are all types of homes to choose from and even living on a lake or river is possible. It is a special place to play any sport and take part in many cultural and outdoor activities. At the same time, you are only 30 minutes from Ottawa.
Take the short drive to Arnprior, check out the Antrim Truck Stop for a meal or snack, and you will want to come back very soon.
Full-Service Arnprior
While the population of Arnprior is minimal in comparison to other suburbs or Ottawa, the amenities within the city are here to serve. Arnprior’s central location between Ottawa and the upper Ottawa Valley offers residents access to the entertainment and events of Ottawa while enjoying the natural environment and beauty of the Ottawa Valley.
Arnprior has several historical landmarks and all the modern conveniences, including shopping, its own hospital, recreation, restaurants, water sports facilities, and beaches. Arnprior has been recognized as the top community in its class for its heritage conservation and community involvement. Arnprior also has many cultural groups, including historical organizations, live theatre, chamber music, dance, choir, service clubs, and an active artistic community with many studio tours and exhibits.
Contact The Agent DK Team today to see how you can make your move to Arnprior toda
Happy Pride Month!
🌈 Pride Month is for everyone to embrace who they are and let the world know — in style! The rainbow aptly signifies the colorful activities and flavors of this month-long celebration. Help us celebrate the diversity in our communities and make all members of the LGBTQ+ community come together and celebrate the freedom to be themselves.
MARKET SNAPSHOT MAY 2021
The May 2021 Ottawa Real Estate Board Stats are out!
Market Snapshot: The lockdown of May 2021 looked a lot different than the lockdown of May 2020 for the Ottawa resale market. With double the number of listings as sellers take advantage of the market conditions and feel more comfortable and protected as the industry has adapted well to enhance the safety of both buyers and sellers.
If you’re considering a move The AGENT DK TEAM is here to help answer any questions you have, in this market you’ll want a qualified, professional real estate company to protect your interests.
Message or Call us anytime!
Home Projects to Ready Your Home for Summer
Home Projects To Ready Your Home For Summer
With the spring season now in full bloom, summer approaching quickly, and social distancing guidelines leaving you a little stir-crazy, you may be feeling anxious to spend time outdoors and keep yourself busy while waiting for restrictions to be lifted. Fortunately, when you have to #StayHome, you might be able to find some time to work on some home projects that may have otherwise been neglected. Because home projects are usually essential or seasonal tasks to ensure your home is properly maintained, this can also be a great learning opportunity for kids who are currently unable to attend school, and trying to learn from home instead. If you don’t have kids, then this is the perfect time to hone your skills as a handy homeowner.
Whatever the case may be, it is important to remember to keep your projects within your abilities; if you do not feel comfortable or safe performing a task, there are plenty of reliable contractors available for essential services, or who can be booked once businesses begin to reopen. In the meantime, here are some ideas for home projects to get you started while taking advantage of your time at home, so you can ensure your house is in great shape this summer.
Clean Out Your Gutters
The gutters on your house should never be neglected, as they can cause damage to your home if they get clogged. Before summer gets here, make sure to clean out your gutters and make way for a worry-free summer season.
Tidy Up Your Deck
Your deck is an extension of your home that can be just as beautiful as the inside. Take some time to clean and organize your deck, and maybe add a coat of stain to brighten it up a bit. Once it is deemed safe to socialize again, your family and friends will be more than impressed with how amazing your deck looks in the summer sun.
Pruning
It is important to prune any dead or damaged stems as soon as you see them. Additionally, any spring-flowering leaves and shrubs, such as lilac trees, should be pruned in late spring, once they have finished blooming. It is important to research specific plants to see when the best time to prune is, as some, such as Daylilies require autumn pruning instead of spring.
Air Conditioners
Air Conditioners are great for providing us with cool, temperature-controlled environments throughout hot and humid summers. The problem is, without proper care our air conditioners might not be working as efficiently as they should be. It is important to have your filters changed once a year, and even call in a specialist if you have any concerns, to ensure your system is performing at its best.
Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
There is no better time than the present to increase your home’s curb appeal! Put a fresh coat of paint on the exterior of your home, or reseal your deck or fences to preserve the longevity and keep your home looking fantastic all year-round.
Screen Maintenance
Don’t let those pesky flies into your home this summer! Ensure your screen doors and windows are up to par by inspecting them for rips, tears, or holes in the material. You may need to do some patchwork or replacement but you will be able to keep the bugs out and breeze in all summer long.
Taking care of household tasks are important life lessons that everyone can benefit from learning, and practicing. Take some time to research your projects to ensure you have the appropriate gear and equipment, as stores and businesses may have limited stock, hours, and curbside pickup availability; try to be as resourceful and economical as you can during these times of uncertainty. Doing this on your own or getting your children involved can teach both you and them some valuable lessons and life skills that will certainly come in handy down the road. Life might feel a little off-beat right now, but taking advantage of this time and staying positive will ensure you come out on the other side feeling maybe more accomplished (at least, with your home projects) than you did before.