Fernan Apilan Realtor

08/20/2026

08/12/2026

📤 Share this with someone who's thinking about buying or selling.

Curious how average residential detached home prices compare across Winnipeg and the surrounding regions? Here's the latest year-to-date snapshot through the end of July. Based on the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board MLS® System, Southwest Winnipeg continues to have the highest average price, while prices vary across the region to reflect different local market conditions.

For a deeper look at what's driving these numbers—and what they could mean for buyers and sellers—read our full market update here: https://ow.ly/o71j50Zx14p

Statistics are from the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board MLS® System and represent sales and transaction data collected from January 1 to July 31, 2026.

08/10/2026

Easy ways to keep your home cool without air conditioning

It’s the dog days of summer and we certainly have experienced some extremely sizzling weather so far. Hotter than normal, it seems. While it’s a cliche to say that it’s not the heat but the humidity that makes it so much worse, it’s a fact.

A typical Manitoba summer at 34°C is hot, but perfect beach weather. However, throw in a dose of humid air, bumping the humidex to 42°C or more, and you have conditions that make being outdoors for sustained periods uncomfortable if not outright dangerous if you aren’t cautious.

No worries, though, you can just retreat to your air conditioned home to cool off. If you have air conditioning, that is.

If you don’t have air conditioning in your house, condo or apartment, there are plenty of options to help cool you off. On top of adequate hydration, homeowners across Canada are finding ways to cool their living spaces without A/C using guidance from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) experts.

When you can’t control the temperature inside your home, there are certain tactics to help you stay cool. This includes creating a cross-breeze with strategically placed floor fans, exhausting hot air from your home using bathroom fans, and pushing cool air down by adjusting your ceiling fan to operate counterclockwise. And if you have a small budget for some minor renovations, or you can justify buying a few useful products, you’ll keep comfortable despite the rising mercury.

Don’t let the summer sun melt the days away, be prepared for the next heatwave. Learn how to keep your house cool without air conditioning by employing the following tips, tricks and cooling techniques recommended by the pros.

Keeping cool during the day

During the day, the goal is to stop the heat from climbing while maintaining a cooler room temperature. This means finding ways to allow hot air to escape, while filtering out heat sources in your home. For example, closing all blinds, hanging blackout curtains in front of windows, and applying a heat-
reflecting film to your windows, all of which keep you cooler by blocking out the sun’s heat. Turning on the vent fan above your oven (if it’s vented to the outdoors) or in your bathrooms can also help draw some of the warm air out of your home.

The key to staying cool without air conditioning is to keep the air moving. Moving air is drier (less humid), so it feels cooler even though you haven’t changed the temperature. That’s why you feel so much cooler outdoors if there’s a breeze on a hot day.

The best way to keep air moving indoors is by using strategically placed fans.

• Place floor fans on the opposite ends of a room — one blowing in and the other blowing out — to create a cross-breeze and a constant flow of air that’s entering and exiting the space.

• Turn your ceiling fan counterclockwise to offset hot air as it rises — rather than sucking up and circulating the heat, the fan pushes the air back down, removing the humidity and making it feel cooler in the process.

• Blow the air from your basement — which is cooler — into the main living space by using floor fans to move the air up to the next level.

Of course, fans aren’t your only option to regulate the temperature of your home. Try closing bedroom doors to minimize the amount of space you need to cool, and don’t feel guilty about putting off activities on the to-do list that generate heat — for example, doing laundry, vacuuming the floor, and cleaning dishes. If at all possible, minimize the amount of work you do outdoors on a hot day so you don’t overheat, since your options to cool off are more limited.

An often overlooked option is trees. By planting trees in strategic locations on your property, they’ll help to block the sun’s rays from streaming into your home. If you have a big picture window in your living room, for example, consider planting a tree in a spot that will cast shade over it during the hottest part of the day. If possible, look for a condo or apartment that has a tree in front of your patio or balcony. The air is significantly cooler in the shade, and this helps cool off your home, too. Trees also block some of the coldest winds in winter which helps to keep your home warmer.

Keeping cool at night

As the sun goes down and the balmy summer night sets in, the outside temperature will eventually dip below the inside temperature of your home. This is your opportunity to take advantage of what’s considered “free cooling.” Let the fresh air in by opening windows, spreading curtains, and widening blinds — position floor fans to draw the outside air in and help circulate it through your home.

Open bedroom doors and maximize the air flow down hallways and throughout each room — once again, create cross-breezes wherever possible to keep the cool air moving. And if that doesn’t do the trick, why not make your own air conditioner? Fill a large bowl with ice cubes and place it behind a table fan;set the fan to static and drape a towel over the back covering the bowl. Admittedly, the ice melts quickly, but before it does, you’re graced with a delightfully cold breeze that should help you fall asleep faster.

When it comes to cooking dinner, a barbeque is your best friend — nothing cranks up the heat in your home like using the oven or turning on the burners. Plus, everything tastes better off the BBQ, right? If you don’t own a barbeque, consider meals with little prep work and short cooking times, or treat yourself and order takeout from your favourite restaurant occasionally. Better yet, go out to eat because very likely your favourite restaurant will be air conditioned.

Surprisingly, your television, computer, laptop, and other electronic devices generate a significant amount of heat, which is only compounded by the sweltering sun. As for the fridge, the longer you keep the door open, the harder the compressor works to maintain the cool temperature — the harder the compressor works, the hotter it gets inside your home.

5 cooling investments

Despite keeping your home cool, air conditioners heat up your utilities bill, and the warmer it gets outside, the more expensive it is to stay comfortable. Whereas, a few key renovations end up cheaper in the long run. If you can justify the upfront expenditure, consider the following five investments to keep your house cool without A/C:

1. Install a ridge vent on your roof to allow hot air to escape from your attic. However, for installation, it’s best to hire a professional to prevent moisture damage to your roof and insulation.

2. Purchase a dehumidifier to suck the humidity out of the air. There are many models available in different sizes, so do your research to find what’s best.

3. Replace all incandescent light bulbs with LED alternatives. Incandescent bulbs use more electricity (generate more heat), while LED lights are more than 75% energy efficient.

4. Buy a digital indoor/outdoor weather station to track the weather and monitor the temperature to pinpoint the ideal times to exploit free cooling.

5. Employ passive cooling techniques outside of your home by strategically planting bushes, gardens and trees to help prevent the sun from heating the walls and foundation of your home.

By employing just a few of these easy strategies, getting through the next heat wave will be a breeze!

— Realtor.ca

Published on 08 / 07 / 2026

08/09/2026

Residential detached homes and condos set new July average price records
By Jeremy Davis

July 2026 saw the residential detached average price of $454,264 increase 2% from last year and increase 6% from the 5-year average. Condominium average prices of $290,522 increased 2% from July 2025 and increased 5% from the 5-year average. All MLS® sales of 1,475 were down 9% from last July and 1% below the 5-year average. Active All MLS® listings of 4,005 were up 9% from last year and 1% above the 5-year average. Total MLS® dollar volume of over $601 million was down 7% from July 2025 and up 4% from the 5-year average. Residential detached MLS® sales of 1,054 were down 7% from last year and down 1% from the 5-year average. Condominium MLS® sales of 187 were down 21% from last July and down 12% from the 5-year average.

“Residential detached and condominium average prices increased over last year and the 5-year averages en route to new average price records for the month of July,” said Dan O’Brien, 2026-2027 President of the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board. “While MLS® sales fell below last year, sales have been within 5% of the 5-year average in every month of 2026 so far.”

Year-to-date All MLS® sales of 8,762 were down 6% from 2025 and down 1% from the 5-year average, total MLS® listings of 14,307 were down 2% from last year and even with the 5-year average. Total dollar volume of over $3.6 billion was down 3% from 2025 but up 6% from the 5-year average. Year-to-date residential detached MLS® sales of 5,967 were down 7% from last year and down 2% from the 5-year average. The average price of $473,124 was up 3% when compared to 2025 and up 8% from the 5-year average. Year-to-date condominium MLS® sales of 1,248 were down 9% from last year and 5% below the 5-year average. The condominium average price of $289,508 was up 3% from last year and up 6% from the 5-year average.

Residential detached homes in July saw MLS® sales of 1,054 which is 7% below the 1,128 seen in July 2025 and 1% below the 5-year average of 1,061. Residential detached homes saw active MLS® listings of 1,898 which is 12% higher than last July and 4% below the 5-year average of 1,981. The average price of $454,264 for a residential detached home was up 2% from July 2025’s $443,414 and increased 6% from the 5-year average of $427,222.

For July, Waverley West was the neighbourhood in Winnipeg which saw the most residential detached homes sold followed by West Kildonan. Outside Winnipeg, the Steinbach area saw the most residential detached homes sold followed by the Morden/Winkler area.

The most active price range in July was the $400,000-$499,999 range which saw 257 MLS® sales, representing 24% of all residential detached MLS® sales. The $300,000-$399,999 price range was the second most active with 228 MLS® sales representing 22% of all residential detached MLS® sales in July.

There were 21 residential detached homes sold at or above $1 million in July, with the highest priced at over $2 million. July 2025 had 20 residential detached homes sold at or above $1 million with the highest priced at just over $2.5 million.

MLS® sales of 187 for condominiums in July were 21% below the 238 seen in July 2025 and 12% below the 5-year average. Active MLS® listings of 474 for condominiums were 1% above the 468 seen last July and even with the 5-year average. The average price of $290,522 for a condominium in July was 2% above last July’s $284,845 and 5% above the 5-year average of $277,211.

For July, the Osborne Village area was the neighbourhood in Winnipeg with the most condominium MLS® sales followed by Fort Richmond and Richmond West. Outside Winnipeg, the Morden/Winkler area had the most MLS® sales in July followed by the Niverville/Ritchot and Steinbach areas.

The most active price range for condominiums was the $200,000-$299,999 range with 59 MLS® sales which represents 32% of all condominium MLS® sales in July. The $100,000-$199,999 range was the second most active with 52 MLS® sales in July, representing 28% of all condominium MLS® sales.

“Every real estate transaction includes important financial, legal and practical considerations that a REALTOR® can assist you in identifying,” said Crystal Hollas, CEO of the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board. “A REALTOR® can help coordinate the process and connect clients with trusted professionals to address questions on financing, legal issues, regulations, and inspections. This network of expertise can help ensure that your needs are addressed and you are supported throughout every stage of the transaction.”

Jeremy Davis is the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board’s Director of External Relations & Market Intelligence.

Published on 08 / 07 / 2026

08/08/2026

🏡 New July average price records were set for residential detached homes and condominiums across the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board’s market region.

In July 2026, the average residential detached home price reached $454,264, up 2% from last year and 6% above the 5-year average. The condominium average price reached $290,522, also up 2% year-over-year and 5% above the 5-year average.

While MLS® sales were down compared to last July, monthly sales throughout 2026 have remained within 5% of the 5-year average.

📊 Read more about July’s residential real estate market in the latest issue of Winnipeg Regional Real Estate News: https://ow.ly/9RVo50Zxyz6

08/04/2026

10 ways to easily style an inviting front porch

Summer is the time when a front porch really shines. More than adding curb appeal to your home, it also increases your outdoor living area.

Front porches have become versatile spaces to relax and entertain, ready to adapt to any mood or occasion. They can be a cool grotto to hide from the summer sun, or if it’s screened, an escape from pesky insects. Picture yourself sharing an evening glass of wine with friends, sipping a steaming cup of coffee in the early hours of the morning, or curling up with a good book on a cool summer night. Porches are also a fantastic way to meet your neighbours as they walk by.

But let’s be honest, front porches don’t always get the attention they deserve. Despite their significance, porches are often underestimated when it comes to their impact on curb appeal, outdoor use, and overall property value. Before you dismiss front porches as less exciting than their backyard counterparts, there are plenty of ways to revitalize and enhance them, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and elevating your home to “envy status” in your neighbourhood.

Your front porch frame’s your home’s curb appeal. If your front porch is inviting, cared for, and aesthetically pleasing, it implies that the rest of your home will offer the same experience — which ultimately impacts the perceived value of your home.

Before you begin

Before diving into the décor, think about how you want to use the porch — whether it’s a cozy sitting area, a tranquil escape, or a spot for social neighbourhood hangs. Defining the purpose will guide your furniture and décor choices. Treat the front porch like any other room, but choose to incorporate durable materials like waterproof and fade-resistant wood, metals and fabrics. A comfortable seating arrangement not only invites you to enjoy the porch, but also adds an inviting touch to your entire home.

Here are some creative ways to revamp your front porch, transforming it into a captivating space that leaves a lasting impression on guests and provides you with a delightful outdoor retreat.

1. Paint There’s no denying the power of paint! Believe it or not, the colours you choose can impact your mood and your guests’ vibes as they step into your home. Inject some joy with vibrant hues like pink or yellow or sky blue, or keep it classic, with a fresh coat on your front door, floors and ceiling. Make sure the colour complements your home’s overall style. Even if your porch is covered, opt for a durable latex enamel exterior paint that can brave the elements and keep your porch looking fabulous all year round.

2. Front door Ready to make a statement? Start with your front door! Whether it’s a vibrant splash of colour, a stunning natural wood finish, or a unique architectural design like arched doors, your front door sets the mood for your entire home. If you’re into timeless elegance, opt for a solid wood door with a luscious brown stain. Just remember to give it some extra TLC with a waterproof seal to keep it looking new in any weather. Or opt for a wood-look fiberglass door if you prefer zero maintenance aside from the occasional wipe-down.

3. Column wraps Column wraps give your columns or posts a fresh makeover without breaking the bank on a full-blown remodel. The wraps do just that — wrap around your existing columns that may not be visually pleasing. Typically made from PVC, faux wood or vinyl, they’re all about style, not structure, so you can choose from a variety of designs, whether it’s a sleek tapered look or a classic round shape.

4. Flooring Flooring can really make your front porch shine! Whether you go for stylish tiles, warm wood, stamped concrete or timeless stone, choosing the right material can instantly elevate the value and charm of your outdoor space. Pro tip: Go for flooring that complements your interior design, creating a seamless flow from the porch to the entry of your home.

5. Lighting Proper lighting is key to creating an inviting ambiance. Hang a statement pendant over your door, flank it with sconces, and let strategically placed solar landscape lights highlight the architectural beauty of your home and gardens. Add a touch of charm with hurricane lanterns and string lights that cast a warm glow. Whether you’re sharing cocktails with friends or watching the sunset, the right lighting will elevate any porch experience. Remember — size matters! Make sure your exterior lights are scaled appropriately to match your home’s front elevation, and that their design matches your home’s archictural style.

You’ll also want to consider your wattage here. Too bright, and you may unknowingly create a situation with the neighbours. Too dim, and you won’t benefit from any of the safety features that come with an illuminated entryway. Ideally, you’d want a dimming option, but you may not have that type of switch. Take some time to do a bit of research into what wattage suits your setup best.

6. Plants, flowers and planters Bring your front porch to life by adding hanging flower pots, potted greenery, and ornamental vases that infuse vibrant colours and fresh vibes into your entryway. And don’t be shy when it comes to large-scale planters — they make a bold statement, giving your porch that extra touch of grandeur. You can opt for flowers that bloom annually so you don’t have to keep replanting them in the spring, but perennials will bloom brightly throughout the entire summer and into fall.

7. Accessories Simple accessories can transform your front porch into a charming retreat that reflects your personality and invites relaxation. Incorporate small décor accessories like trays, candles and garden stools. Layer in a knit throw blanket and some cozy cushions for a pop of colour, pattern and texture. Just remember, simplicity is key, so strike a balance and avoid going overboard with porch and lawn ornaments. You can also change these elements out seasonally to match holidays and weather.

8. Textiles Outdoor rugs and stylish curtains can add both comfort and personality to your revived entryway. Layer rugs and mats for a trendy look, while drapery adds a touch of romance and provides privacy when needed.

9. Seating Don’t limit seating to the backyard; your front porch may offer incredible views and entertaining potential. Choose comfortable seating with purpose, whether it’s a charming porch swing that adds a touch of nostalgia or a trendy hanging chair that exudes bohemian chicness. Ensure your seating is weather-resistant and built to withstand the elements, so you can enjoy countless relaxing moments in your revamped front porch oasis.

10. Hardware Small details like door hardware and doorbells can make a big difference in your home’s appeal. Replace old and worn-out hardware with fresh and stylish options to give your porch a modern touch. And don’t forget about the house numbers! Upgrading them can instantly elevate the look of your home.

Revamping your front porch is a wonderful way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and create a welcoming space for you and your guests. By incorporating these tips, not only will you transform your front porch into an outdoor oasis, you’ll boost your home’s value. Remember to ask a REALTOR® how to boost your home’s curb appeal.

— Realtor.ca

Published on 07 / 24 / 2026

08/02/2026

Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board advocacy being heard at City Hall
By Jeremy Davis

In July, the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board welcomed Mayor Scott Gillingham to present to Members of our Board of Directors, Advocacy Committee and Commercial Division Committee on housing policy, housing starts, permitting, infrastructure and development in Winnipeg.

These topics are important for the real estate industry, as the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board has been advocating for many years on issues of increasing housing supply, prioritizing infill housing, improving the permitting system and building enabling infrastructure.

To start his presentation, Mayor Gillingham updated our Members on the significant progress that was made in the first half of 2026 with over 3,100 housing starts, which represents an increase of 40% over last year and the strongest first half in our city’s history. This contrasts with the national average which has seen housing starts down 1% from the first half of 2025. There were also over 2,600 housing completions in the first half, along with over 1,000 downtown residential housing permits taken out, also a record. He credited the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund for giving the City of Winnipeg the funding required to make substantial improvements to processes while incentivizing a boom in housing not seen before in Winnipeg. There is also more infill housing development than greenfield development, which is important because this maximizes the infrastructure investments already made.

Gillingham stressed the need for clearer rules around permitting which is welcome for many in the development community. The need for over 60 types of permits has already been removed, digital applications for permits have been expanded, Permits Online upgraded, and an end-to-end review of the development process conducted. These are just some of the ways the City has been working toward a more streamlined process. What was most encouraging to hear was the shift in thinking at the City where there is more of a ‘yes first’ culture that is focused on finding ways to get housing built. Specifically, moving to a policy culture that is more predictable for development and routine when consistent with City rules, regulations and plans. In other words, there shouldn’t be a need for public hearings or political intervention when plans already meet the criteria set out by Council. Policy compliance should mean no delays and ensuring that’s the case can lead to a more efficient system for everyone involved.

The zoning by-law rewrite that is currently underway, with a target for completion at the end of 2027, is another way in which the City is seeking to shift their development policy culture. Years of overlays, exceptions and variances to policy have created confusion, and Winnipeg is in need of a modern zoning by-law that is more aligned with growth. The Downtown Zoning By-law and the Winnipeg Zoning By-law are both over 20 years old and aren’t compatible with newer City plans or how Winnipeg has changed as a result of growth. The new Zoning By-law will combine these two, support the needs of today along with future growth, and importantly, be easier to navigate, more flexible and enable a broader range of development.

While infrastructure projects rarely receive the same attention as housing development, the Mayor spoke about how the upgrading of the North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC) is among the most important issues facing the City of Winnipeg today.

In any municipality, water and wastewater treatment facilities are literally the foundation upon which cities can operate with existing residents while enabling future growth. It is this point that the Mayor stressed because the NEWPCC is facing limited capacity, and if the upgrades are not completed before that capacity runs out, the City would be in the unenviable position of having to say no to economic and population growth. The City is currently awaiting confirmation from the Manitoba and Canadian governments on whether they will help fund the remaining upgrades which the City has already committed their share of.

The presentation highlighted significant progress in housing construction and development activity, while also recognizing that additional work remains to support Winnipeg's future growth. We hope to see this level of focus continue into the future, especially for the candidates for Mayor and Council in the upcoming Civic Election in October.

One thing you can count on is that the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board will continue advocating on behalf of REALTORS® to ensure there is increased, efficient, residential and commercial development that is free from impediments which, last year, contributed over $6 billion to the local economy.

We thank Mayor Gillingham for his willingness to present to our Members on the issues important to real estate in our market region.

Jeremy Davis is the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board’s Director of External Relations & Market Intelligence.

Published on 07 / 31 / 2026

07/31/2026

5 tips to help you pick the perfect cottage

It’s mid-summer, we’re heading into another long weekend, and you may have decided that the perfect way to wile away those hot summer days is at a cottage.

The greatest aspect about living in Manitoba is that you can be hiking, fishing, sailing or lying on a sandy beach beside a calm lake in under an hour’s drive. But if you want maximum convenience and privacy, owning your own cottage offers every amenity you need right at your fingertips.

If you’re looking to make your first cottage purchase — or simply want to upgrade — here are a few important points to consider before you make the move.

Focus on your dream

Whether you’re eyeing a cottage by the lake or one that’s nestled in the forest, there are many unique settings to consider when buying a rural property. The location you choose will be determined by the type of cottage experience you’re dreaming about.

If you’re looking for an active lifestyle, you’ll want to be near amenities like hiking and biking trails, or if you prefer water sports and fishing, you’ll want to have a waterfront property with a dock and maybe even a boat house, or at least be situated near a marina. If you prefer to work on your tan all day or have a place for kids to make sand castles, you’ll need to determine how close you are to a beach.

How remote your cottage is will play a role in your purchase as well. You may not want to feel too isolated and prefer to be fairly close to neighbours or entertainment so you can easily socialize and meet new friends. Or, you may prefer a completely immersive experience from that of the city, and prefer not to see or hear any neighbours for miles around.

Are you only planning on using the cottage during the summer, or would you like to enjoy it during the winter months, too? Depending on your intentions, you’ll either look for a 3-season or a 4-season cottage. A cottage that can be used all year long will cost more, but it allows you to enjoy cottage country in all weather conditions.

If you intend on hosting family and friends at your cottage, you’ll need to determine the size that will suit you best. Is there a lot of outdoor space? A deck? A covered porch? Do you need extra bedrooms, or will a bunkhouse on the property be suitable? Is there space for an out-of-town visitor to pitch a tent or park a camper for a week or two? The options for your perfect cottage experience are endless!

Property access and amenities

Your cottage’s location can greatly impact your lifestyle, especially if you decide to live there year-round. Something important you’ll need to determine when buying a cottage property is how you’ll be able to access the home. If you plan to live at your cottage year-round, you’ll want to ensure the roads to get to and from your residence are well maintained and accessible, especially during the winter.

You’ll also want to consider proximity to basic amenities, such as grocery stores, pharmacies and hospitals. Most cottage buyers prefer to be within 30 minutes of a small town where these services are available, and preferably not more than three hours from a major urban centre. This is easily accomplished in Manitoba, where lake country is never very far away.

This close proximity is especially beneficial if you have a work-from-home arrangement. If you have to drive into the office once or twice per week, you don’t have to worry about an overly long commute.

Infrastructure and winterization

Unlike a city or suburban home, cottage properties don’t always share municipal services. Instead, cottage dwellers will have to get familiar with the rural infrastructure needed to independently manage their home’s water, heating and sanitation utilities.

You have to be aware of the types of systems your home uses. Some properties feature dug or drilled wells, and source water from nearby rivers and lakes. Make note of how the home processes sewage, like through a septic tank, which is stored on-site and underground. You’ll also need to learn about how you can dispose of your garbage, whether a regular pick-up service is available or if you’ll be required to drive to the local dump.

If your plan is to live at the cottage all year round, it’s vital your home is properly winterized and can withstand the cold. Check that the home is well insulated in the walls, pipes and roof, and to make sure the heating source is efficient for the size of the property. Be sure the cottage can also supply water in the freezing months with the help of a defrost line into the well or a heat trace that will keep the pipes from freezing. If it has a fireplace, get it inspected to see if it works or needs repairing.

If you’re planning on working remotely, be sure to confirm you can receive reliable mobile phone and internet service at the cottage. Some areas have great service, while others don’t. You may have to consider alternative service providers if you’re in one of the “dead zones.”

Upkeep costs

Just like any home, cottages come with a range of maintenance costs, though some of these expenses are unique to rural areas.

You’ll want to factor in long-term upkeep expenses, like keeping the driveway in good condition and cleared of snow in winter so it’s easily accessible all year round if it’s 4-season cottage. Your property may be on a septic system, which will require pumping every three to five years depending on its size and usage, which also contributes to maintenance costs. Also important is the health of any trees and their orientation towards the house. Sure, the curb appeal with trees is amazing, but it’s important to check how healthy those trees are because cutting down sickly or poorly placed trees can get expensive.

Financing and insurance

When it comes to financing your property, there are a number of factors that will contribute to your insurance rates, such as your distance from local fire stations, if your home is elevated from nearby water, and even how often the home is occupied.

The mortgage lending process will also look a bit different from what’s involved for your typical city or suburban home. If you want your cottage to act as a second home, you would need a second mortgage, in addition to your current home’s mortgage. Typically when buying a cottage you need to have a minimum down payment of 5% to 10% of the value of the cottage. So it’s crucial to understand the different implications for each cottage mortgage provider.

There’s a lot you need to think about before choosing which iced bevvy you’re going to sip while relaxing on your private dock. Enlisting the help of a local REALTOR® who specializes in the cottage lifestyle ensures that not only are you getting the most up-to-date advice about rural living, but that you find the perfect cottage for the best summer ever.

— Realtor.ca

Published on 07 / 31 / 2026