Getting Started

So you’re thinking about becoming a landlord in Ontario? I get it—with rent prices going through the roof and everyone scrambling for affordable housing, 2025 feels like the right time to jump in. But here’s the thing: if you’re new to this game, you’ve probably got a million questions swirling around in your head. What am I actually getting myself into? Do the numbers really add up? And honestly, can I find something that’ll actually put money in my pocket from day one?

Let me break it down for you—the real deal about being a landlord in Ontario right now. Plus, I’ve got a property listing that might just be exactly what you’re looking for.

Why Everyone’s Suddenly Interested in Rental Properties

Here’s what’s happening in Ontario’s rental market this year—it’s tighter than a jar of pickles. People are desperate for decent long-term rentals, especially in places like Belleville and Quinte West where you can still find reasonable prices. We’re talking $2,000+ for a basic 1-2 bedroom unit in most parts of the province now. And those government housing promises? They’re still years away from actually helping anyone.

More folks are realizing that real estate—even the modest stuff—can do double duty: put cash in your pocket every month while building wealth for the long haul. When everything else is getting more expensive, having a rental property that pays for itself is starting to look pretty smart.

The Real Scoop on Being an Ontario Landlord

Look, being a landlord isn’t rocket science, but there are some rules you need to know:

Rent Control: If your unit was first occupied after November 15, 2018, you’re not stuck with Ontario’s rent control guidelines. That means you can actually set market rents—pretty handy.

The Paperwork: You’ve got to use Ontario’s Standard Lease form. No exceptions.

Checking Out Tenants: Services like Equifax make it easier to verify income and credit scores. Trust me, this step matters.

Keeping Things Running: You’re responsible for keeping the place in good shape. It’s part of the job.

The Legal Stuff: The Landlord and Tenant Board handles disputes and evictions. Hopefully you’ll never need them, but they’re there.

The good news? There are tons of tools now to make this easier—digital rent collection, automated bookkeeping, the works. Most first-time investors I know are picking properties that are already updated and in areas where finding tenants is a breeze.

What Makes a Killer First Investment Property

Here’s what you should be hunting for:

• A price that won’t make you lose sleep (under $300K is like finding a unicorn these days)
• Clean, functional layout—bonus points if it’s already been renovated
• Low property taxes and minimal maintenance headaches
• Strong rental demand (think near schools, jobs, or transit)
• Tenants handle their own utilities (this is huge)

Let’s Talk Real Numbers

Alright, here’s where I stop talking theory and show you something real.

There’s this property at 19 Victoria St. in Stirling, listed at $249,900( you can find the listing here). It’s a fully detached home right in Stirling. Updated, efficient, and in an area where tenants actually want to live. It hits every mark for a first-time investor:

• Expected rent: $1,750–$1,850/month (plus utilities)
• Property taxes: Only $881/year
• Utilities: Tenants pay everything

Let me show you how this actually works with real numbers:

If you put 20% down:

• Purchase Price: $249,900
• Down Payment: $49,980
• Mortgage: $199,920 over 30 years

Your monthly mortgage payment:

• Fixed at 4.5%: $1,012.97
• Variable at 4.0%: $954.45

Your other monthly costs:

• Property Taxes: $73.42
• Insurance: ~$100 (estimate)
• Maintenance Fund: $90 (always set aside 5% of rent)

Total monthly expenses:

• With fixed rate: $1,276.38
• With variable rate: $1,217.87

Here’s where it gets interesting—your cash flow:

That’s real money in your pocket every month. And finding something under $250K that actually cash flows? That’s getting harder to find.

The Bottom Line

If you’ve been thinking about getting into real estate investing but don’t want to deal with a multiplex or a fixer-upper nightmare, 19 Victoria St. might be exactly what you need. The numbers work, the market’s there, and the opportunity is sitting right in front of you.

Want to know more about this property or see what else is out there? Let’s chat — I’d rather help you make a smart first move than watch you miss out on something good.

All figures are estimates based on June 2025 data. Mortgage rates and costs will vary. Always consult with your lender or financial advisor for personalized advice.

If you’re buying your first home in Ontario, particularly around Belleville, Quinte West, or Prince Edward County, 2025 just got a whole lot more exciting. The federal government rolled out a new rebate program that could put thousands of dollars back in your pocket when you buy a brand new home.

Let me break it down for you.

What’s This New GST Rebate All About?

Back in May 2025, Ottawa launched the First-Time Home Buyer GST Rebate. The goal? Help new buyers actually afford newly built homes while getting more housing built across Canada.

Here’s the deal: if you’ve never owned a home and you’re buying a new build worth $1 million or less, you can now get back 100% of that federal 5% GST.

How Much Money Are We Talking?

The rebate amount depends on your home’s purchase price. Here’s what you could save:

$500,000 home: $22,124 back
$600,000 home: $26,549 back
$700,000 home: $30,973 back
$800,000 home: $35,398 back
$900,000 home: $39,823 back
$1,000,000 home: $44,248 back

That’s real money staying in your bank account instead of going to taxes. And here’s the kicker: this rebate stacks on top of the existing provincial rebate that builders usually get.

These Aren’t Pie-in-the-Sky Homes

We’re talking about actual homes you can move into right now in Belleville, Quinte West, and Prince Edward County. These properties already have their HST baked into the price, but as a first-time buyer, you get to pocket these rebates.

Do You Qualify?

The requirements are pretty straightforward. You need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who’s at least 18 years old. Your purchase agreement needs to be signed after May 27, 2025, and the home has to be finished before January 1, 2036.

Eligibility details are expected to align with other federal first-time buyer programs, which typically define a first-time buyer as someone who hasn’t owned or lived in a home owned by them or their spouse in the last 4 years — but we’re still awaiting official confirmation

Getting Your Money Back

Most of the time, you’ll pay the full purchase price upfront, then file for the rebate directly with the CRA after you close. But some builders we work with are getting creative. They might apply the rebate as a credit at closing or use it to help with your down payment or closing costs.

We’ll walk you through exactly what’s available for each property you’re considering.

Ready to See What You Qualify For?

With all of our decades of experience New home sales in the Quinte Region is what we do. We know the ins and outs of builder pricing, HST rules, and how to make this new federal rebate work in your favour so you can save the most money possible.

Give us a call, shoot us an email, or book a private tour of homes that qualify for the rebate.

We serve first-time buyers across Belleville, Quinte West, Trenton, Prince Edward County, Stirling, Frankford and the surrounding communities.

Experienced REALTOR® for Your New Home Purchase

Buying a new home is an exciting journey, especially for couples venturing into this milestone for the first time. Unlike purchasing a pre-owned home, dealing with new constructions offers unique opportunities and challenges. One way to navigate this complex process with ease and confidence is by working with a REALTOR® who specializes in new homes. Here are the top five benefits of hiring an experienced REALTOR® when buying a new home.

1. Expert Guidance Through the Building Process

Knowledge of Construction Details

A REALTOR® with experience in new homes understands the construction process intricately. This knowledge is invaluable as they can guide you through each phase of construction, from the initial groundwork to the final touches. They are familiar with the typical timelines and potential delays, helping you set realistic expectations about when your home will be ready.

Customization Advice

One of the perks of a new home is the ability to customize it to your tastes. However, knowing which options to choose can be overwhelming. An experienced REALTOR® can help you select upgrades that not only meet your desires but also enhance your home’s long-term value. They’ll advise on which features are worth investing in and which aren’t, ensuring you spend your budget wisely.

2. Negotiation Skills with Builders

Securing the Best Deal

Builders are often open to negotiations, and this is where your REALTOR® comes in. They have the negotiation skills to discuss prices, terms, and conditions effectively. With their expertise, they can work to secure you discounts or better terms, which can save you a significant amount of money.

Upgrades and Extras

Apart from negotiating the price, REALTORS® can also negotiate for extras and upgrades. Whether it’s higher quality flooring, better appliances, or additional landscaping, your REALTOR® knows how to make your case compelling to builders.

3. Insight into New Developments and Locations

Access to Early Opportunities

REALTORS® specializing in new homes often have first-hand information on new developments before they are widely advertised. This early access can be crucial in securing a home in a sought-after location or in a new development poised for value appreciation.

Evaluating Potential Growth

Your REALTOR® can provide valuable insights into the growth potential of different areas and developments. This is essential for long-term satisfaction and investment success. They help you understand factors like planned infrastructure, community services, and local schools, which can influence your living experience and the asset’s future value.

4. Assistance with Financing and Paperwork

Navigating Construction Loans

Financing a new build can differ significantly from buying a pre-existing house. Your REALTOR® can guide you through the nuances of construction loans and mortgages, helping you find the best rates and terms. They can also assist in understanding the payment schedules that align with different construction stages.

Streamlining Documentation

The paperwork involved in purchasing a new home can be extensive. From initial contracts to warranty registrations, your REALTOR® ensures that all documentation is correctly handled. This not only saves you time but also protects you from potential legal issues.

5. Professional Networks and Resources

Connections with Trusted Professionals

Not to toot our own horn, but experienced REALTORS® like our team, have established networks of reliable industry professionals. This includes builders, lawyers, home inspectors, and more. Access to this network helps ensure that every aspect of your home purchase and construction is handled by experts.

Access to Additional Resources

Also, an experienced agent can connect you with resources such as design centers, home automation experts, and landscape designers. These resources allow you to customize your home efficiently and creatively, turning it into your dream space.

In the end, choosing to work with a REALTOR® who specializes in new homes offers numerous benefits, especially for first-time buyers. Their expertise in negotiations, understanding of the building process, insights into new developments, assistance with financing, and professional networks make a power ally.  As you embark on the exciting journey of purchasing your first new home, having a knowledgeable REALTOR® by your side can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and successful experience.

The Unmatched Benefits of Building Your New Home

Embarking on the journey of building a new home is an exhilarating adventure that promises more than just the outcome of a house—it’s about creating a personalized sanctuary that reflects your lifestyle and preferences. For those considering this path for the first time, understanding the multifaceted benefits can help make the decision clear and exciting.

1. Personalization at Every Step

One of the most compelling reasons to build your own home is the unparalleled level of customization it offers.When you build from the ground up, every aspect from the architectural style to the interior finishes is chosen by you. Whether it’s the layout that optimally utilizes space based on your family’s needs—like including home offices, a personal gym, or a spacious kitchen for gatherings—or selecting eco-friendly materials that promote sustainability, the power of choice is in your hands. This personalized approach ensures that every corner of your home is tailored to enhance your daily living experience.

2. Incorporating Cutting-Edge Technology

Modern homes go beyond mere aesthetics, incorporating the latest advancements in technology to provide functionality and increase efficiency. Smart home technologies allow for everything from enhanced security systems to automated lighting and climate control, all of which can be managed from your smartphone. Energy-efficient appliances, high-performance insulation, and triple-pane windows can be installed to help reduce your carbon footprint and lower utility bills, making your new home not only smarter but also more sustainable.

3. Financial Gains and Incentives

Building a new home is also a financially astute choice. New constructions are more likely to appreciate in value quickly, providing a higher return on investment if you ever decide to sell. They come with fewer maintenance issues in the early years, which means saving on repairs and upkeep. Homeowners can also benefit from builder warranties that protect against unforeseen expenses, along with potential tax advantages such as deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes. These financial perks make building a home an investment in your future.

4. Healthier Living Environment

The health benefits of new homes cannot be overstated. Opting for new construction allows you to use materials that are free from harmful chemicals like asbestos and lead, common in older buildings. This is particularly important for families with children or anyone with health concerns. Modern homes also tend to have better air filtration systems that improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems.

5. Emotional Satisfaction and Security

There’s an undeniable emotional thrill in watching your dream home take shape from the foundation up. This home will be the backdrop for your family’s memories, untouched by previous occupants’ histories. Moreover, new communities often mean newer schools, parks, and community centers, enhancing your lifestyle and providing a supportive environment for your family to grow. Safety is also a top priority in new constructions, which adhere to the latest building codes and are equipped with modern fire suppression systems and robust security technologies.

6. The Convenience Factor

Lastly, the convenience of building a home means you bypass many of the potential pitfalls associated with buying an existing home, such as bidding wars, unpredictable repairs, or decor that’s not to your taste. You’ll have a clear timeline from the start, with professionals guiding you every step of the way.

Wrapping Up

Choosing to build your own home is a profound step towards crafting your ideal living space that resonates with your personal taste and forward-thinking lifestyle. It’s more than just construction; it’s about setting a foundation for the future of your family and your legacy.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards building your dream home, or simply want more information to guide your decision, reach out today. Let us help you translate your vision into a beautiful reality that stands the test of time.

Thank you for visiting us at the Quinte Home & Lifestyle show this year. You can check your number on the PDF of the winners here: Winners List

If you were one of our lucky winners, CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

To redeem your prize, click the “Claim Your Prize”button, and we will contact you to arrange to pick it up!

We are so excited to be once again at the Quinte Home & Lifestyle show being held from APRIL 14-16, 2023. We always LOVE the Home show and what a great way to spend a few hours(or the day!) checking out the exciting variety of exhibitors the Quinte Home Builders Association has organized this year.

For the little ones…

Theres always lots to see at the show HOWEVER the kids now have a fun new contest that is exclusively for them!

Our kids’ colouring contest is a fun and engaging activity for the kids and is a great way for them to be excited about coming to the home show! All you need to do is print off the attached colouring page, let your child’s creativity flow, and bring it to our booth at the show which can be found at booth #5 to be entered into the contest.

By participating, your child can express their individuality, and its a great way to get them excited to visit the Quinte Home and Lifestyle Show, and potentially win a McDonald’s gift certificate if they get picked!

Download and Print this and lets get colouring!

Hey there, fellow real estate enthusiasts! I’ve got some fascinating numbers to share with you today. We’re going to take a look at Canada’s recreational property market, with data provided by Royal LePage Recreational Property Report. The rec property market has seen some significant growth in 2022. But, as with all good things, it seems this wave may be coming to an end. So, let’s dive in and see what’s happening!

To start with, the aggregate price of a single-family home in Canada’s recreational property market shot up 11.7% year-over-year to a cool $619,900 in 2022. And it wasn’t just single-family homes seeing a boost. Waterfront and condominium properties also experienced a rise in prices, with a 9.5% and 16.6% increase, respectively. Talk about a hot market, right?

Now, if you’re looking for the star of the show, it’s got to be Quebec’s recreational condominium market. It recorded the highest provincial year-over-year aggregate price appreciation in 2022, skyrocketing 22.3%! That’s one impressive number.

But, as I mentioned earlier, this wave of growth seems to be losing steam. In fact, the aggregate price of a single-family home in Canada’s recreational regions is forecast to decrease by 4.5% in 2023, dropping to $592,005. That’s a pretty noticeable change, don’t you think?

However, not all provinces are expected to see this downward trend. Alberta is the only recreational market anticipating price appreciation in 2023, albeit a modest 0.5% increase. On the flip side, Quebec and here in Ontario we are expected to experience the most significant price decreases, with forecasted declines of 8% and 5%, respectively, compared to 2022.

But what’s causing these shifts? Well, one of the reasons could be lower inventory levels. More than half (57%) of recreational property experts across Canada reported lower inventory than last year in their respective regions, and a whopping 65% said inventory is lower compared to typical pre-pandemic levels. That’s definitely going to impact the market.

So, what’s the takeaway from all this? Well, if you’re in the market for a recreational property, it might be a good idea to keep an eye on the changing trends and prices. You never know when a golden opportunity might arise, or when it’s the right time to make a move. We offer free automatic property searches for all of our clients and friends, which will send listings directly to your inbox as soon as they drop.

That’s it for now, folks! Be sure to check back for more exciting real estate news and insights. And remember, knowledge is power when it comes to making informed decisions about your investments.

Happy house hunting!

For more info on the Royal LePage Recreational Property Report you can see the whole thing here 

Welcome to the first post in our 6 Part series on Real Estate Investing. We really wanted to break down as much as possible to help make the process less scary and daunting.  Whether you’re looking for financial freedom, passive income, or long-term wealth building, real estate investing can give you a ton of opportunities to reach your goals. For our first post we’re going to chat about the benefits of real estate investing, the different types of real estate investments, and hopefully, debunk some common myths and misconceptions.

So what are some of the benefits of real estate investing?

Real estate investing definitely has advantages over some other forms of investments. Some main benefits are:

Passive income: Rental properties can generate a steady income stream, allowing you to earn money with minimal ongoing effort. For example, if you purchase a property for $200,000 and rent it out for $1,500 per month, you could earn $18,000 per year, assuming full occupancy.

Appreciation: Over time, property values generally increase, allowing you to build wealth as your property appreciates. For instance, if you bought a house for $250,000 and its value increased by 5% annually, it would be worth about $382,884 after ten years.

Leverage: Real estate investing allows you to use borrowed money to enhance your investment returns. By putting down a 20% down payment and financing the rest, you can acquire a property worth five times your initial investment.

Alright, so we can see there are some of the Benefits…Let’s take a peek at what type of Real Estate Investments are out there;

1. Residential properties: With residential we’re talking about single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and multi-unit apartment buildings. You would be renting these properties to tenants, generating rental income and benefiting from property appreciation.
2. Commercial properties: Office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial properties all fall under this category. These investments often involve higher risks and higher capital investment but can offer higher returns. This is not usually where we advise our clients to start since they often include more complex
3. Real estate investment trusts (REITs): These are companies that own, operate, or finance income-producing real estate. Investors can buy shares in REITs, similar to stocks, and receive dividends from the rental income generated by the properties.
4. Fix and flip: This strategy involves purchasing properties that have potential to be improved, renovating them, and selling them for a profit. While this approach can be lucrative(HGTV makes it seem way more fun than it actually is haha), it also carries a much higher risk and requires significant time and expertise.

So why do we feel so strongly that real estate is a stable and profitable investment option?

History shows that real estate investments tend to be more stable than stocks and other volatile assets. This is because property values are typically less affected by short-term market fluctuations. Real estate investments have the potential offer multiple income streams, such as rental income and property appreciation, making them attractive options for long-term investors.

Through the many Real Estate cycles that we have experienced we have been able to help our clients build a solid plan for their portfolios. Sometimes that means one income property, and for other it means multiple types.

Looking to find out more? Reach out and we can set up a quick chat to go into more detail or help you get a plan together!

This past weekend we had a wonderful time at the Quinte Sportman RV and Boat show here in Belleville. We set up our booth some of our staging furniture and showcased some great recreational properties and got to meet thousands of people over the 3 day event.

Our Stay & Play Contest was a huge hit with our visitors. The prize included; two 18 Hole rounds of Golf at Trillium Woods, 1 Nights stay with Williams Hotels, Dinner at the Boathouse Restaurant, and Breakfast at Wimpys Diner and the lucky winner of the package is…..

THANKS SO MUCH EVERYONE!!! We look forward to next year!

Are you tired of being cramped up in the house or apartment you’ve outgrown during these cold winter months?

Are you ready to upgrade to a house with a big backyard for snowman building and a fireplace for cozy nights?

Pros:

First, buying a house in the winter is like hitting the jackpot because there’s less competition. Everyone wants to buy a house in the spring and summer, but in the winter, not as many people are looking. This means you have a better chance of getting your dream house at a great price.

Another benefit of buying a house in the winter is seeing how the house holds up in the cold weather. You’ll be able to see if there are any drafts or leaks and if the heating system works well. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting before you buy it.

Over the years, I have had many clients who ventured out into the snow to check out properties, especially the vacation homes still on the market from the fall…These many times lead to solid deals for people.

Cons:

Ok, it’s COLD. And Snowey. This is basically the main reason why people stay home, and I get it, but as mentioned for those brave enough to venture out it can be worth it!

Pools, Wells/septics, and the exterior of homes can be more challenging to inspect when there is 3 feet of snow everywhere. This is very true, however inspectors are able to get a good look in most cases and if not we have a range of clauses to add into offers that give a warranty to different items. Thats one of the benefits of working with our team, we have decades of experience in making these exact situations a breeze.

For the Sellers:

The good news is if someone is making the trip out in this crazy snow filled life we have here in the Quinte region they are serious. Fewer tire kickers!

So, what are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on your chance to hit the jackpot and buy a house in the winter. You’ll be glad you did, when you’re sitting by the fire with your hot cocoa, watching the snow fall outside your very own window. Reach out and we can chat about how this could be your time to snag that solid winter deal!