Let’s Talk about Cottages

Cottages are known for all things cozy, comfortable, and a peaceful home life. Occasionally, you need to get away from all the noise if you live in the city and take time to enjoy nature. Perhaps you’ve even had your eye on a little cottage on the lake or a cabin with a spectacular view.  If your idea of paradise is a cottage-style house away from the city, here are some factors you should consider while you are getting ready to buy a cottage.

Create a Bucket List - Do you want a relatively new property or a fixer-upper? Do you want a seasonal property or a place you can use any time of the year? Do you want to live on the water, or will you be happier with a place in the woods? Do you want to be close to town or as far away as possible?  There are many things to consider when buying a cottage and it’s best to create a list ahead of time to determine your wants and needs.

Find Local Experts - While you may know a real estate agent or handy person near your main residence, you will likely need to find a similar contact closer to your cottage property. A realtor who lives nearby and specializes in cottage properties is ideal as they will be more familiar with the area. If the property you want to buy requires renovations, a local contractor will likely be your best bet since they will know where to source materials and be familiar with local building codes.

Access to Electricity and Internet - One of the most important considerations when you invest in a cottage or a vacation home is electricity and internet access. Before making any decisions, it is so important to do research on what kind of electrical services and/or internet access are available in the area.  It may be a good idea to contact the local power company or internet service provider for an estimate of what the monthly costs would be for installing these utilities, if necessary and any other associated fees.  Having a reliable source of power and internet will enable you to use all the amenities that come with owning a vacation home.

Empty vs. Developed Lot

An empty lot will likely require more time to build the structures and amenities you desire, while developed lots are usually ready-to-move-in cottages that have buildings already in place.  The advantage of purchasing an empty lot is that you can customize the space exactly to your desires. Deciding between an empty and a developed lot depends on your preferences as well as availability within your desired location and budget.

How Much Will You Pay in Utilities and Other Property Costs?

If you have a cottage, it may make sense to shut off certain utilities – such as cable and air conditioning – when you are not there to save on expenses. However, you want to be careful with other utilities.

Winterizing: You will have to think ahead when winterizing your cottage. If you just shut off the heat, the pipes could freeze and burst. 

Accessibility: Depending on how rural your vacation property is, you will need to consider road access. Is your cottage located off a paved road, or do you have to take a dirt road to get there? Will the roads be plowed in the winter?  Will you need a vehicle that can drive through snow, or will your cottage only be a three-season escape?  Is your cottage located on an island that is only accessible by boat?

Water: Many rural properties are not on a city water system, so the water supply to your rustic cottage may come from a groundwater source such as a well. You may even have your own septic system, which will likely require hiring a septic company to maintain it on a schedule determined by how frequently the cottage is used.

Information From a Local Realtor

Before you consider buying a cottage, it’s important to do research and speak to a local realtor. They can provide critical information on factors such as the current market trends, zoning regulations, deed restrictions, and building codes specific to the area you are looking at.  Realtors can also help narrow down your search by helping you identify what criteria would suit your needs best when selecting a cottage.

Buying a cottage or a cabin is an exciting and rewarding experience as well as a significant investment. However, it’s important to consider all the factors before investing in one.  From determining whether you want an empty lot or a developed one to researching local zoning regulations, there are many things to consider before taking the plunge and I hope you find this information helpful.

If you are ready for country living and want to find your dream cottage, I am a highly experienced realtor and can be reached anytime at 705-323-7781 or feel free to send me an email rmcguigan@rogers.com.  

 About Me

Born in Toronto, Ontario, I have been in sales for over 30 years.  At the young age of 23, I was a successful store manager for a large well known Retail Shoe Company in Toronto, which led me to work for a large Floor and Wall Fashions Distributor in Warehouse Management and Sales. Beginning in 2004, this valuable experience led me to a successful and dynamic career in Real Estate.  I then achieved my Broker's license in 2008 and I am always continuing my education in this exciting field.

I find myself so fortunate to live and work in Lagoon City.  Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people who have become my neighbours and friends.  I truly believe in creating a better community through connecting people with the right homes.  My integrity and honesty will always keep you on the right path and my dedication to finding or selling your home goes beyond expectations.

 Richard McGuigan is a professional CENTURY 21® Real Estate Broker, with  Century 21 B.J Roth Realty Ltd, residing in Lagoon City, Ontario and providing you with the highest quality service possible. His personal knowledge of the Real Estate market in Lagoon City and surrounding areas is combined with the power of the CENTURY 21 brand - the most recognized name in Real Estate today.  Let Richard assist you in finding your dream home in our beautiful waterfront community.  Contact him today for a free home evaluation.

A Helpful Checklist for Your Move

Moving to a new town is exciting but it can also be overwhelming.  The physical move and unpacking can be stressful not to mention trying to settle into your new home.  I am pleased to provide you a helpful checklist for things to keep in mind when you move to a new town or city.

Forward Your Mail and Change Your Address

In most cases with a move, many individuals forward their mail to their new address for 3-6 months so they do not miss anything important. It is also recommended to change your address a week before the move which includes:

• The Post Office
• Revenue Canada
• License Bureau
• Gas and Electric Companies
• Phone, Cable, and Internet Providers
• Home-owners Insurance
• Employer
• Insurance Providers
• Bank and Credit Card Company
• Magazine and Subscription Services
• Online Shopping Sites
• Clubs and Organizations

Settle Your Local Memberships

Are you a member of a local club or organization?  Think about cancelling your membership in these groups, especially if there is a cost.  If you no longer use them, you will have to settle your membership.

Find an Internet Provider

Not having an internet provider in your new home can be frustrating. Call an internet provider that serves the area where you are about to move and schedule an installation. 

Find Health Professionals

While you may not need a health professional immediately when you move, eventually you will need to find a new primary care physician and dentist. Understand that it also may take a while to find suitable doctors and/or get an appointment, so you may want to plan.  You will need to find out where the closest walk-in clinic is and if the clinic allows all residents access.   Pet owners should also find a veterinarian in the area to know where to bring their pets in the case of an emergency.  Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.

Transfer Your Prescriptions

If needed, have your prescriptions transferred to a pharmacy near your new home.

Research Your New Township/City Online

Get to know your township or city.  Some things you will need to know include trash and recycling days as well as yard waste pick-up because every town or city differs in schedules.  Their website may also have an event section that may interest you as it is a fun way to meet locals.  It will also allow you to find out who your councillor and mayor is in case you need to ask questions or report a concern.  

Introduce Yourself to the Neighbours

A simple hello may lead to an initial conversation if you and your neighbours cross paths as you're moving in, but if that opportunity doesn't present itself, don't be afraid to knock on a door to let your neighbors know that you're new around the community. Having a friendly relationship with your neighbors is important — because you never know when you'll need a little help here and there, whether it's to keep an eye on your house while you're away or that all-important cup of sugar when you're baking during a blizzard, or you might even become lifelong friends.

Explore the Area on Foot or Bike

You can get a general idea of what's around your new home in a vehicle, but you'll get a more specific view of the establishments that make up your area on foot or bicycle. Concentrate on the downtown area of where you live since that's likely where you'll find the bulk of the local businesses that you will frequent as a resident.

Visit Local Restaurants and Shops

When you first move to a new place it's not a bad idea seeing as, your kitchen will probably be a mess for the first few days, to venture out to eat and support a local business.  It's also a good way to meet business owners and locals. 

Living in a Waterfront Community

Have you moved to a waterfront community?  Inquire about the rules of docking your boat – where can you dock your boat and when can it be put in the water.  When does your boat have to be taken out for the season?  Have you moved close to a beach?  Find out if you need a beach or parking pass to access the beach.  These are important questions to ask your real estate agent or the township/city you will be residing in.

Get a Feel for the Social Scene

Where do local hangouts? The best way to find out is to visit a few entertainment venues and other social gathering/party spots in town. Do they have a community centre?  What about a local recreational league? You will also want to find other groups in which you want to participate, which includes church groups, professional groups, fundraisers and support groups.

Join Groups that Interest You

If you're moving to a new town or city, there are plenty of social activity groups that are sure to compliment your own idea of fun.  Join an online Facebook group for your town or city to find out about local events.  Follow the Township/City’s facebook page to keep up to date with your community.

Register for a Library Card

Familiarize yourself with the local library.  It’s helpful to have a library card in case you want to check out a book or a free movie. It's also a good place to access free Wi-Fi if yours isn't set up right away.

There is a lot of tasks at hand when you move into your new home, but I hope that following the checklist above can help you make the transition a bit easier.

Are you thinking of selling or buying? You can reach me anytime at 705-323-7781.  Or send me an email at rmcguigan@rogers.com.  

About Me

Born in Toronto, Ontario, I have been in sales for over 30 years.  At the young age of 23, I was a successful store manager for a large well known Retail Shoe Company in Toronto, which led me to work for a large Floor and Wall Fashions Distributor in Warehouse Management and Sales. Beginning in 2004, this valuable experience led me to a successful and dynamic career in Real Estate.  I then achieved my Broker's license in 2008 and I am always continuing my education in this exciting field.

I find myself so fortunate to live and work in Lagoon City.  Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people who have become my neighbours and friends.  I truly believe in creating a better community through connecting people with the right homes.  My integrity and honesty will always keep you on the right path and my dedication to finding or selling your home goes beyond expectations.

 Richard McGuigan is a professional CENTURY 21® Real Estate Broker at Century 21 B.J Roth Realty Ltd, residing in Lagoon City, Ontario and providing you with the highest quality service possible. His personal knowledge of the Real Estate market in Lagoon City and surrounding areas is combined with the power of the CENTURY 21 brand - the most recognized name in Real Estate today.  Let Richard assist you in finding your dream home in our beautiful waterfront community.  Contact him today for a free home evaluation.

The spring real estate market is a great time to be selling your home.  With more daylight and warmer weather, spring is when people are ready to make a fresh start.  As your local realtor, I am very excited to be ready for the spring market and pleased to share a few tips to help you get ready.

Know What Your Plan Is

One huge mistake that sellers might make is not knowing what their plan is once they sell their home. Are you planning on buying another home once your home sells? Do you have the option to move in with a family? Are you able to rent, if need be? These are things you should think about and know the answers to before the spring real estate market hits. 

Making the decision to sell your home often requires a lot of research, time and energy.  Once you have finally reached the decision to sell, the next thing that you may be left wondering is when to sell.  While there may be perks with selling at different times of the year, spring is arguable the best time to list and sell your home.

Clear the Clutter

Here is a helpful spring checklist of things to de-clutter:

• Entry way: This is the first area prospective homebuyers will see, so it would be a good idea to remove coats, umbrellas, or shoes from your mudroom or foyer.
• Cabinets, pantry, nightstands, closets: Remove items (e.g. medications, toiletries etc.), other than items used for decorative purposes.  Organize pantries and closets so they are presentable to buyers.
• Kitchen: Countertops should be clear of everything except for decor and essential kitchen equipment (e.g. toaster).  It is also helpful to clear the face of your fridge of magnets, bills, flyers, photos or coupons.
• Bedrooms: Beds should always be made and clothes should always be organized and stored neatly in closets.
• Family Photos:  Anything that personalizes your home should be put away.

Remove Personalization

The purpose of staging is to help potential buyers imagine themselves living in your house. If you display too many items, you may make it hard for buyers to imagine owning and living in your home.

• Personal effects: Pack up family photos, kid’s drawings, sports memorabilia, trophies, and In the bathrooms hide all personal items.
• Collections: What you collect (e.g., books, figurines, etc.) may not necessarily be the same things a potential buyer would collect. Reading materials should reflect neutral subjects, such as architecture or food.

Clean the Exterior

Many buyers can decide, within seconds of seeing the exterior of a home whether a property is suitable for them.

• Yards: Winter can leave your yard looking very unappealing. Try to trim shrubs, weed flower beds, and throw away leaves and garbage. Planting flowers around the yard can go a long way in raising its appeal, especially during the spring.
• Porch and patio: Springtime gives us a great excuse to sit outside and enjoy the weather.  For a more appealing porch or patio, you can add potted plants along the walkway, or add a hanging basket near the front door. Part of selling your home in the spring is reminding potential buyers that it’s the perfect place to enjoy these activities.   Take some time to sweep off the deck, uncover your grill, and tidy up the table and chairs on your patio.

Open Your Home Up

Take advantage of the spring weather by opening your windows to let the fresh air and sunlight in.  It may make your house feel (and smell) vibrant. Brighter rooms tend to look bigger and if natural light doesn’t work, try adding floor or table lamps to areas that are darker than others.

Be Prepared!

Buyers interested in viewing your home will ask their agent to book a showing though your agent and good real estate agents will help manage the showings with your schedule.  However, you will need to be flexible and prepared for last-minute showings.  If you are still living in the house, be ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice.  If you have already moved out, your agent should be able to make sure the house is ready for potential buyers by turning on the lights, making sure the temperature is comfortable and that the house is clean and tidy.

Spring selling season is a feeling of renewal and a fresh start.  This can be a powerful tool when you are selling your home, so it’s important that your home is prepared and looks as fresh as possible.  

Are you thinking of selling your home this spring?  Please reach out to me anytime.  You can reach me in my office at 705-325-1366 or on my cell at 705-323-7781.  You can also send me an email at rmcguigan@rogers.com.  I am honored to serve our community.

About Me

Born in Toronto, Ontario, I have been in sales for over 30 years.  At the young age of 23, I was a successful store manager for a large well known Retail Shoe Company in Toronto, which led me to work for a large Floor and Wall Fashions Distributor in Warehouse Management and Sales. Beginning in 2004, this valuable experience led me to a successful and dynamic career in Real Estate.  I then achieved my Broker's license in 2008 and I am always continuing my education in this exciting field.

I find myself so fortunate to live and work in Lagoon City.  Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people who have become my neighbours and friends.  I truly believe in creating a better community through connecting people with the right homes.  My integrity and honesty will always keep you on the right path and my dedication to finding or selling your home goes beyond expectations.

 Richard McGuigan is a professional CENTURY 21® Real Estate Broker at Century 21 B.J Roth Realty Ltd, residing in Lagoon City, Ontario and providing you with the highest quality service possible. His personal knowledge of the Real Estate market in Lagoon City and surrounding areas is combined with the power of the CENTURY 21 brand - the most recognized name in Real Estate today.  Let Richard assist you in finding your dream home in our beautiful waterfront community.  Contact him today for a free home evaluation.