No doubt about it: COVID-19 has made this a summer unlike any other. While it’s important to continue exercising caution, we could all use some fun out of the house right about now. Luckily, there’s no shortage of things to do outdoors in Burlington. To make life easier, we’ve compiled some of the best local warm-weather activities—which you can enjoy on your own, or with the family!

Here are five fun things to do in Burlington before the summer ends…

1) Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens

Take a moment to smell the roses, wild bergamot, echinacea….you get the idea. The largest botanical gardens in Canada are right here in Burlington, and now is the time to take advantage of them. We’re talking about near 2,500 acres of nature sanctuaries, 2,300 plant species, and 27 beautiful kilometers of trail. Stroll the gorgeously-cultivated grounds of Hendrie Park in the summer sun. Check out the indigenous plants in the arboretum, or take in the sights on Cootes Paradise Trails.

2) Visit Kencliff Park

Burlington is home to many natural gems, and Kencliff Park is another must-visit. This 40-acre green space used to be a limestone quarry, but it’s now in the process of being rehabilitated. The results are stunning. Rocky vistas, marshes, wetlands—it’s all part of the unique landscape that makes up Kencliff Park! As a bonus, the area also connects directly to the Bruce Trail, making continued exploration simple.

3) Cycle the Waterfront Trail

Burlington residents have easy access to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a 3600-kilometre route that runs along several breathtaking lakes and rivers. The section that goes through the city splits in two at Maple Avenue and Lakeshore Road. Go south along the Beachway, and you’ll follow the lift bridge to the Hamilton Beach Recreational Trail. Choose north, and you’ll see the charming residential sights along North Shore Boulevard. Be aware that both options include some off-road sections!

4) Plan a picnic

Enjoying a picnic has to be one of our all-time favourite summertime activities. Pack up a lunch, grab the family, and head to a scenic spot to soak up some sun. If peanut butter and jam sandwiches aren’t your thing, try something a little different. At Marilu’s Market, you’ll find fresh produce, specialty deli items, baked goods, and more. Once you have your snacks, consider heading to Lasalle or Lowville Park, both of which offer designated picnic spots.

5) Check out the art

If you’re an art fan, you’re in luck. There’s a self-guided Burlington tour designed just for you! This is the perfect opportunity to learn about the city’s public art—and explore downtown at the same time. The tour, known as Art and the City, is accessible via any mobile device. Simply download the free app to get started. You can also find printed guidebooks at facilities such as the Art Gallery of Burlington, Burlington Performing Arts Centre, Burlington Public Library, and the Museums of Burlington.

In these uncertain times, we all have to get a little bit creative to enjoy the areas we call home. The good news is, Burlington is chock full of outdoor attractions that you and your family can enjoy safely. So slap on some sunscreen, throw on a hat, and start making the most of summer in the city!

Interested in making Burlington home? Get in touch—we know the city inside out, and we’d love to help you find the perfect place!

Have you long dreamed of owning a house with a pool? Summer is upon us, and the warmer weather makes now the perfect time to take a dip. The desire to go swimming on a hot day has influenced many home buyers, but should it play a role in your purchase?

While there’s a lot to love about owning a pool, it’s not right for everyone. Knowing the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision—and a purchase that will work for you in the years ahead.

If you’re thinking of buying a house with a pool, here’s what you should know…

The pros

If you’re even remotely interested in owning a pool, you probably already know the potential benefits of having one. But if you’re looking for a reason to take the plunge, here are a few of them.

First off, jumping into a pool when it’s hot out can be a whole lot of fun. Sure, you could go to the beach—but there are days when you probably won’t feel like packing up, finding a parking spot, and sharing a strip of sand with strangers. If you have little ones, these trips can be an even bigger ordeal!

Then there’s the exercise you’ll get. If you’re the type who’d prefer a few laps in the backyard to spending time at the gym, having a pool could be your key to staying in shape. Even splashing around with the kids will help keep you active.

Lastly, there’s the social aspect. If you have fond memories of attending pool parties, you’re not alone. When you have a refreshing oasis in your yard, the summer is one big excuse to catch up with friends and family!

The cons

Now for the not so fun part. There are some potential drawbacks to owning a pool, and you should know about them in order to make an informed decision.

Let’s start with the upkeep. While many homeowners don’t mind putting in the time required for pool cleaning and maintenance, some consider it less than ideal. If you take on this responsibility, administering chemicals, testing PH levels, cleaning filters, and getting handy with a skimmer will all become part of your life. There’s also a chance that at some point, you’ll have to deal with an unwanted pest or two.

The costs involved are another potential downside. In addition to cleaning agents and testing equipment, you may have other costs to cover. Repairing a pool lining can cost a couple hundred dollars, while fully replacing one may be upwards of $1000. You should also know that your insurance premiums will almost certainly be higher, since there are some risks associated with ownership.

Due to the time, effort, and costs associated with a pool, some home buyers prefer to avoid them. That’s worth keeping in mind for when you decide to sell your home down the line. While it’s entirely possible to get a great price for a property with a pool, you should be aware that you may have fewer interested buyers.

Making a decision

If the idea of buying a home with a pool appeals to you, doing so may seem like a no-brainer. That said, it’s important to take all relevant factors into account before making a decision.

Think about your lifestyle and financial situation. Do you have the time and room in your budget for maintenance? Are you okay with the possibility that fewer buyers will be interested in your home when it goes on the market?

Last but not least, you should carefully consider your homeownership priorities. If you’ve always dreamed of having a pool in the backyard, buying one may be well worth any extra effort that comes along with it. Keep in mind that a skilled agent can help you market your property to the right home hunters, no matter what features it has.

Are you ready to seriously consider buying a house with a pool? If so, a local real estate professional can help you weigh the pros and cons—and give you a sense of what’s on the market!

Ready to decide whether a home with a pool is right for you—and see what’s available on the market? We’d love to help—reach out to get started!

If you’re the executor of an estate, the task ahead of you will likely get complicated. It’s hard to say goodbye to someone when they pass away, and having a bunch of new and unfamiliar responsibilities can make it even more so.

Dividing up assets will be a big part of your job, and that includes any real estate owned by the deceased. While it may seem overwhelming at first, knowing what to expect can make the process a lot less stressful.

If you’re preparing to split up property as an executor, here’s what you should know…

Executor Responsibilities

An executor may take care of a wide variety of duties, from obtaining the death certificate to setting up the funeral. Of course, the most critical are collecting the deceased’s assets, paying their remaining debts, and divvying up what’s left amongst their beneficiaries (those named in their will).

Keeping the above in mind, you’ll have some specific responsibilities when dividing the profits from a piece of real estate (known under these circumstances as an estate home). Here are the most important steps you’ll take:

• Securing the property

• Having it appraised

• Checking that it’s insured

• Maximizing income if it’s a rental

• Selling it for the right price

Whether it’s a house, cottage, or some other type of property, you’ll want to start out by making sure it’s secure. The last thing you want is for the value of the estate home to decline. If it’s a rental property, do what you can to get rent that’s on par with what’s being charged for similar buildings or units in the area.

Last but not least, you’ll very likely wind up selling the property at fair market value and splitting the return between the beneficiaries. Here’s what that might look like.

Whether selling as an executor or homeowner, knowing the market will help: A few of our recent posts will make you an informed seller:

• Why Did My Neighbour’s House Sell but Mine Didn’t?
• What’s Your House Really Worth?
• How To Negotiate A Real Estate Contract

Logistics

Selling an estate home isn’t always easy. First off, you’ll need to obtain probate before you can put the property up for sale. Through this process, the will’s authenticity is verified—as is your right to act as executor. You can file for probate with the court and attain it within 6 to 8 weeks.

Be aware that if you put an estate home on the market before you receive probate, the timeline could get complicated. You won’t be able to close without it—unless the buyer agrees to make their purchase conditional on you attaining it, or they’re willing to extend the closing date.

In many cases, a loved one named in the will of the person who has passed away will want to purchase the property. They may be able to buy it for less than fair market value, so long as all of the other beneficiaries agree.

All told, administering the estate should take you no more than a year (usually less). Be aware that your work may be reviewed at the beneficiaries’ request. Through a process known as “the passing of accounts,” the courts can take a closer look at what you’ve done to ensure that it’s above board.

Lastly, you deserve to be compensated for your hard work. As a rule of thumb, executors usually take around 5 per cent of the value of the estate they’re distributing. If you have any questions about this, ask your lawyer.

Where to turn for help

Being an executor—especially when there’s real estate involved—can be a difficult job. Fortunately, there are professionals who can help make the process less anxiety-provoking.

Start by finding a fantastic legal expert. An estate lawyer can be your best friend during this unfamiliar process, so choose wisely. Do your research beforehand, get a sense of your role, and then prepare a list of questions to ask any professional you’re thinking of working with.

If you’ll be selling a property, you’ll also want to find the right real estate agent. Ideally, look for someone who has experience putting estate homes on the market. In general, they should know how to price a home accurately, be able to work with your timeline, and show sensitivity in emotionally-charged situations.

Sellers can face many challenges in any given market. The resources below will help you be more prepared:

• Can You Successfully Sell a House With a Stigma?
• How to Sell Your Home After a Divorce
• Can You Sell a House When You Have Tenants?

Acting as an executor comes with challenges—and rewards. Fulfilling someone’s last wishes and serving their beneficiaries can be a true honour, and it doesn’t have to be as stressful as you think. By knowing what to expect and working with the right people, you can help ensure that the process is both smooth and successful.

Are you ready to sell your home? We have the local market knowledge and experience to help. Contact us to discuss your needs today!

There are so many wonderful things about Waterdown, and the impressive food scene is one of them. Some of our most beloved restaurants are located in this charming community, and all are ready and eager to serve!

If you’re looking for an incredible meal in Waterdown, here are five restaurants where you can get one right now…

Cascata Bistro

It’s one of Waterdown’s finest. We’re talking about Cascata Bistro. We can’t enough of the casual-yet-deeply-satisfying fare served up by this Carlisle Road gem. The owner takes a farm-to-table approach, and the results speak for themselves. From steamed mussels to savoury flatbreads, every item on the menu is worth sampling. Cascata’s chicly-decorated atmosphere is also a huge draw!

Souptogo

Are you a soup lover? Us too. There’s just something about a warming bowl of chowder, broth, puree—you get the picture. At its best, soup is flavourful and made with love. That’s why we’re such big fans of Souptogo. These dishes, simmered to perfection on a local farm, are beyond delicious. We’re especially big fans of the more unique flavour combinations, like pea and mint or Thai pumpkin.

Are you planning to buy or sell a house in the Hamilton, Waterdown, or Burlington areas this year? The resources below can help!

• Should You Use the Same Agent to Sell and Buy a House?
• Our Full-Service Real Estate Team’s Guide to Marketing Your Home
• Worth It or Not? What Renovations Really Help When Selling Your Home

Bliss Kitchen

Vegetable lovers, rejoice! Bliss Kitchen is cooking up vegan delights that can be enjoyed dining in or taking out! We’re all about the savoury mains and sides, especially the crispy chickpea burgers, baked falafels, and stuffed mushrooms. And it would be a crime not to try one of Bliss’ decadent desserts—think cashew cheezecake and chocolately brownies. You can check out the menu here, or find the eatery on Uber Eats or Skip the Dishes.

Shy’s Place

We love Shy’s Place for its levelled-up Italian food. Here you’ll find perfectly-prepared pizzas topped with gourmet ingredients—like prosciutto, pesto, and feta. There are also plenty of pasta dishes on the menu, combined with everything from sweet sausage to shrimp scampi. If you fancy a glass of wine or beer, you can also take home the right beverage to complement your meal.

Kamoosh

Kamoosh is an upscale Italian eatery that does the classics right. Whether you’re in the mood for tender veal cheek, rich beef tenderloin, or creamy lobster ravioli, this is the best place in town to get it. While the menu features traditional elements, it’s also highly inventive. Simply put, diving into a dish from Kamoosh is a true exploration—one where unique flavours combine effortlessly. If you’re ready to try this buzzworthy eatery, dine-in takeout, and delivery options are available.

Interested in learning more about life in Waterdown and Burlington? Curious about some of the beautiful homes on the market here? Get in touch—we’d love to show you what makes life in this community so great! You can also connect with us by calling our offices at 905-332-9223.

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to throw open the windows and breathe in that fresh air. Summer is the season for pool parties, midnight dinner parties, and catching up on your booklist. Now, with barbecue season taunting us all, have you considered expanding your living space to include a relaxing, backyard oasis? Perhaps, an outdoor kitchen, bar, dining space, pool, or a shady spot for lounging.

Summer in Ontario can be hot and humid. Staying cool and comfortable can be a struggle while you’re out and about taking advantage of everything that summer has to offer. So, why not enjoy it from the comfort of your own home? Get your fill of the sun, and then when you’re ready, retreat inside to your cool as a cucumber home. Pools, outdoor kitchens, bars, lounge chairs, and more will make you feel like you’re at the beach but without all the sand and packed parking lots.

Outdoor Bars, Kitchens, and Eating Areas

An outdoor kitchen makes summer entertaining a breeze. Instead of leaving your friends to fend for themselves while you’re stuck in the kitchen prepping, move it all outside! Mingle, and catch up all while getting dinner ready. A basic outdoor kitchen needs a prep station, a fridge, a barbeque, and a seating area. For those looking to go the gourmet route, a smoker and a wood fireplace are excellent additions. Outdoor kitchens are designed with socializing in mind. They’re laid out to facilitate conversation while allowing you to be the height of culinary efficiency. If you have the space for it, consider including both a lounge seating area and a dining area complete with a table and enough chairs for all of your guests.

Pools, Ponds, and Water Features

The sound and sight of running water is without a doubt one of the most calming sounds there is. Combine that with some lounge furniture, beautiful stonework, and a captivating water feature and you have your own private oasis. The perfect backyard pool is the pool that actually gets used, and not just looked at. So, decide what you would like to use your pool for. If you want to do swim laps every day, then make sure your pool is long enough. If you want to spend your evenings soaking in the hot tub with a glass of wine while twinkling fairy lights hang overhead, then make it happen. Consider incorporating water features into your pool for an even more dramatic effect.

The Gardens

It is a scientifically proven fact that spending time in nature, around plants, breathing in fresh air, is good for you – emotionally and physically. Dedicate a space on your property for you to spend some quality time in. Relax, read a book, or even return phone calls and emails! If you work from home there are plenty of ways to get outside while you’re still on the clock. Use a wide offset outdoor umbrella over top of your patio set to keep the sun off your laptop, and make sure that the wireless connection reaches your deck.

Are you searching for something to do with your family right at home or in your own neighbourhood? It’s no secret that travel is expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are a ton of fun activities for your whole family to enjoy.

Whether you plan for days or act on the spur of the moment, here are a few ways you can enjoy time with your family and create new memories.

1) Learn interactively

Education doesn’t have to be boring. With the right tools and resources, your kids can enjoy a learning adventure right from the comfort of their own room! Must-visits include the National Geographic for Kids website and the virtual storytimes offered on Facebook and Instagram by PenguinKids.

In addition, there are countless interactive learning apps that turn down time into learning time. You can pick up a new language, enhance your drawing skills, and sharpen your memory right from your device.

Thinking of upgrading to a new family home? The posts below will help you make the most of your sale:

• What’s Your House Really Worth?
• A Home Seller’s Guide to Closing Costs
• Should I Buy or Sell First?

2) Try global cuisines

One of the best things about travelling is the chance to try new cuisines. If you don’t have the funds or time to book a trip, you can still push your culinary boundaries right at home. Why not tackle some dishes from around the world—and involve your little ones in the process?

If you’ve been dying to try fish tacos, now is the time to find a Mexican recipe the whole family will enjoy. If your kids are pizza fanatics, there’s a good chance they’ll love an authentic Sicilian pie, straight-from-the-oven. Food blogs are a treasure trove of ideas for new (and worldly recipes), so get online and start exploring!

3) Try yoga for kids

We all may live for weekends and summer vacation, but too much time off can mean kids get restless. Of course, making sure they get their sixty minutes of recommended daily activity may be tricky anytime, but it’s never impossible.

There are ways to get the exercise you need as a family while having fun in the process. Yoga is a great example. Youtube channels like Moovlee (perfect for toddlers) and Alo Yoga (which offers options for both adults and kids) make developing a practice together a whole lot of fun. They can also help reduce stress during exam times.

4) Have a game night

It’s a classic for a reason. Grabbing a board game off the shelf is a great way to forget your worries for a night. Whether you settle on the family version of Cranium or an all-time classic like Operation or Monopoly, you’re sure to enjoy the quality time with your kids.

To get the most out of your evening, agree to turn your phones on silent for some uninterrupted play. Don’t forget about snacks! Pizza and popcorn are a great classic combo, while hummus and vegetables are ideal if you decide to go the healthy route.

If you’re really ambitious, updating your home can be a worthy goal, especially if you plan to sell. You’ll get some great ideas in the posts below:

• Minor Upgrades, Maximum Results
• Worth It or Not? What Renovations Really Help When Selling Your Home
• Are DIY Upgrades Ever a Good Idea When Selling Your Home?

5) Get creative

If you have young kids, there are probably art supplies all over your home. Now is the perfect time to pull out those odds and ends and make use of them. An egg carton, pipe cleaners and set of watercolours can make for a fun caterpillar, while a tin can and ribbons can be turned into a beautiful windsock.

If your kids are older, consider asking them to help you assemble some of those old family photos into a scrapbook. It’s a great way to reminisce while making new family memories.

Have questions about real estate in Burlington or Hamilton? Get in touch right here or call 905-332-9223. Our team can help you understand the market, and what it means for your purchase or sale.