Steven & Louise FREE Home Show Tickets

Reach out to receive your free Toronto National Home Show Tickets

Call or Text Louise @ 519-721-4663 or email [email protected]

National Home Show:

March 6-15, 2026, Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto

REMAX VIP perks your clients will receive:

• Entry to the 2026 National Home Show
• Exclusive REMAX VIP Entrance and complimentary coat check
• Reserved REMAX VIP Lounge access
• One complimentary drink in the REMAX VIP Lounge
• Reserved front row seating at the Main Stage
• Front-of-the-line access to the Feature Home

MAIN STAGE

Grab a coffee (or an adult bevvie of choice!) and take a seat at our Enbridge Main Stage. This is where you’ll find celebrity guests and experts offering advice and inspiration for your decor and renovation projects, both indoors and out. Whether you are a new homeowner, a condo dweller, or about to build your dream home, this is where you’ll find all the experts, and it’s all included with your show ticket.

Speakers and topics will include colour trends, home reno survival strategies, landscaping tips, renovations to retire and grow older at home, plus a full day of laneway and garden suites building info.

Line-Up - TBD

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW FEATURES

Home insurance in Canada is facing growing pressure as climate risks continue to rise. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, summer 2024 brought over $7 billion in insured weather losses, the highest for any summer on record. Floods overwhelmed Toronto and Montréal. Fires scorched thousands of hectares in Alberta and B.C. Meanwhile, premiums have surged, deductibles have climbed, and in some regions, coverage has been reduced or removed entirely. A recent survey found that 74 percent of Canadians are now concerned that climate change is making insurance unaffordable. The fear is real, and for many, the financial impact has already arrived.

But the bigger issue is that many homeowners still don’t know what their coverage includes until it’s too late. Canada home insurance policies often contain coverage gaps, hidden exclusions, rising deductibles, and stricter requirements that have become common across provinces. If you haven’t reviewed your policy with today’s weather risks in mind, you’re likely underprotected. We show you what to check so your home insurance Canada policy protects you when the next storm hits.

Ask What’s Excluded

Many homeowners assume that if they pay their insurance bill, they’re protected from anything nature throws at them. But policies are structured around exclusions, and most Canadians don’t realize how many weather-related threats are not covered by default. Overland flood coverage is often missing unless you specifically add it. Sewer backup requires a separate endorsement. Damage from gradual water seepage, shifting soil, or even frozen pipes can be denied if the insurer determines the cause to be long-term wear or lack of maintenance. Some providers also limit claims based on where the water came from, such as surface runoff versus rising groundwater. These are key issues for anyone asking, Does home insurance cover weather damage? Without clear knowledge of what’s excluded, you may find yourself stuck with the full cost of repairs even after a major weather event.

Check How Your Deductible Changes with the Type of Damage

Deductibles are not fixed amounts across the board. In many Canada home insurance policies, the amount you must pay out-of-pocket varies depending on the cause of the damage. This has quietly become common in higher-risk areas. Water damage, for example, may carry a much higher deductible than theft or fire. If you’re in a flood-prone area, your flood insurance deductible may have increased over time without you noticing. In some cases, the deductible can exceed the cost of the damage, making your coverage practically useless. Many homeowners only discover this during a claim, when it’s too late to make changes. You should know the exact deductible for every type of event your home might face and ask your broker to explain how those figures were set.

Treat Your Annual Renewal as a Full Policy Review

Insurance renewals are not routine anymore. What used to be an auto-renewal has become a moment of quiet change for many Canadians. Premiums can increase without explanation, but more importantly, coverage limits and endorsements can be reduced or removed. Some Canada home insurance providers are now adjusting terms based on claims data from your postal code, not just your individual history. This means you could lose coverage for sewer backup or have limits capped if others in your neighbourhood have had repeated claims. In some cases, insurers insert new conditions, such as requiring you to install certain equipment before maintaining full protection. These changes are often buried in policy documents or listed in technical language. Always read your renewal documents line by line, and treat them like a financial audit of your home insurance Canada policy.

Understand When Your Home Is Considered High Risk

You don’t need to live on a riverbank or in the forest to be flagged as high risk. Insurers now classify properties based on detailed risk models that consider slope, vegetation, soil type, drainage, and historical claim data in your exact area. If your home is in a region that’s had multiple weather-related claims in the past few years, you could be facing new restrictions even if your property has never been damaged. High-risk classification can mean higher premiums, higher deductibles, or partial coverage. In some cases, certain types of protection, such as flood insurance, may no longer be available at all. When this happens, the value of your home can drop, especially if buyers cannot find adequate insurance. If you suspect your area is becoming harder to insure, talk to a broker before your options shrink further.

Take Risk Reduction Seriously if You Want Coverage to Stay

Insurers are not just raising prices; they’re shifting responsibility back to homeowners. In order to keep certain types of protection, you may now be required to take specific preventative steps. Installing a sump pump or a backwater valve may be mandatory in some regions before your policy will include flood insurance. In wildfire-prone areas, insurers may ask about the materials used in your roof, siding, or landscaping. These requirements are rarely spelled out unless you ask, but failing to meet them can result in a denied claim. Investing in preventative measures not only protects your home, it keeps you eligible for full coverage when other homeowners around you may be cut off.

Be Ready to Prove the Condition of Your Home

When a storm or flood hits, insurers deal with hundreds or even thousands of claims at once. Processing delays are common, and missing or unclear documentation is a major cause of hold-ups and disputes. Insurers want proof not just of the damage, but of the condition of your home before the event. They may also ask for receipts or service records to confirm you maintained the property properly. If you’ve recently upgraded your roof, repaired your foundation, or installed a mitigation system, you need records ready to show it. In many cases, claims are delayed or reduced because homeowners cannot prove the pre-damage condition of the home. These steps matter whether you’re dealing with fire, wind, or water, and especially when making a claim related to flood insurance.

Work With a Real Estate Agent Who Knows the Risks Beyond the Listing

Online listings won’t tell you if a neighbourhood has a history of basement flooding, wildfire evacuation, or poor drainage. If you’re wondering, does home insurance cover weather damage, the answer often depends on location, and those risks aren’t obvious at first glance. A local real estate agent can spot red flags. This includes low-lying lots, outdated infrastructure, or proximity to areas more exposed to weather-related risks. By understanding how geography, zoning, and development patterns affect long-term livability, your agent can guide you toward homes that not only suit your lifestyle but also reduce your exposure to future property losses.

Do you ever wonder why your favourite movie stars always look so good? Or why your local coffee shop is always spotless and decorated for the season? The reason is simple: they have a team of professionals who meticulously arrange every detail.

Before you start wondering how this relates to your home-buying journey, think about all the professionals you have standing behind you as you search for your dream home. Besides your real estate agent, you have a whole team helping guide you home, including a real estate lawyer.

What is a Real Estate Lawyer?

A real estate lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in property transactions and real estate law. They are qualified to provide legal advice, prepare and review documents, conduct title searches, and represent clients during property purchases, sales, or refinancing. In Canada, real estate lawyers are licensed practitioners with specific expertise in handling the legal complexities of property transactions and ensuring that all aspects of the deal comply with provincial and federal regulations. Unlike general practice lawyers, real estate lawyers focus specifically on property matters, making them well-versed in the nuances of real estate transactions from beginning to closing.

What does a real estate lawyer do for the seller and the buyer? Let’s find out.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do for the Buyer?

Buying a home is likely the most significant transaction you will make in your lifetime. This life-altering decision requires the support of professionals to make sure that every step of the process is followed, ensuring that every “i” is dotted and every “t” crossed.

The person who takes care of the dotting and crossing on every legal document is your real estate lawyer. If you’re new to the home buying experience, you probably know you need a lawyer but may not be sure what role they play.

A real estate lawyer is necessary for both the buyer and the seller. We’ll start with their role on the buyer’s side. They ensure the transfer of ownership, outlining the terms of your purchase agreement and a clear title to the property. That is their role at the most basic; it goes far beyond, including the following:

• Review the Agreement of Purchase and all other legal documents
• Ensure there are no claims listed against the property
• Arrange for Title Insurance
• Ensure you have a valid title upon closing
• Ensure property taxes are up to date
• Calculate the land transfer tax due on closing
• Draw up the mortgage documents
• Close the transaction and ensure all legal and financial conditions are met
• Exchange legal documents and keys with the seller’s lawyer

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do for the Seller?

The real estate lawyer’s role on the seller’s side is also related to ensuring the transaction goes smoothly and that all legal aspects are covered. They are focused on the mortgage payout and a smooth transfer of the property’s title. Just like on the buyer’s side, a real estate lawyer performs several key tasks, including:

• Review the Agreement of Sale and other legal documents before you sign
• Assist you with the negotiation of the terms and conditions
• Prepare the deed to your house
• Deal and remedy title issues as they occur
• Close the transaction
• Ensure all legal and financial conditions have been met
• Exchange legal documents and keys with the Buyer’s lawyer

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do at Closing?

At closing, a real estate lawyer takes on several responsibilities to finalize your property transaction. They review all closing documents to ensure accuracy and completeness, including the deed, mortgage documents, and statement of adjustments. Your lawyer verifies that property taxes, utilities, and other expenses are properly prorated between buyer and seller. They also conduct a final title search to confirm no new liens or encumbrances have appeared since the initial search.

On the closing day, your real estate lawyer handles the transfer of funds, ensuring the seller receives payment while confirming that mortgages, property taxes, and other outstanding amounts are paid. They register the deed and mortgage with the appropriate land registry office to officially transfer ownership. For buyers, the lawyer will explain each document before signing and address any last-minute questions or concerns.

If you’re selling property, your real estate lawyer ensures all existing mortgages are discharged properly and that you receive the proceeds from the sale after all required payments are settled. Throughout this process, they communicate with the lawyer representing the other party to resolve any issues that arise and ensure a smooth closing experience for both parties.

When Do You Need a Real Estate Lawyer?

Whether you are buying or selling a home, you will need a real estate lawyer to register the transfer of property with your province’s land registry office. You are required to have a lawyer because lawyers can access Provincial Electronic Land Registration Systems. Every province has different regulations, but a legal professional must register a property and purchase a home to ensure it is legal.

While many real estate transactions in Canada use standard form agreements prepared by realtors, a lawyer will review and amend these contracts to ensure they cater to specific needs or situations. They can also conduct a title search to ensure there are no liens or other encumbrances on the property and help you understand and secure title insurance, which is becoming increasingly common in Canada.

How a Real Estate Lawyer Can Help with Complications

A real estate lawyer is indispensable when a housing deal faces complications, such as when a property is appraised at a value lower than the agreed offer. The attorney can provide clarity on the contractual implications of such a scenario. Many real estate contracts contain appraisal contingencies that allow the buyer to renegotiate or withdraw from the purchase without penalty if the appraisal is low. The lawyer can review the terms and advise on potential avenues of action. If both parties remain keen on completing the sale, the attorney can facilitate negotiations, ensuring that any new terms or price adjustments are legally sound and in the best interest of their client. A real estate lawyer can also investigate if the appraisal was conducted accurately and fairly, providing grounds for a potential challenge or request for a second opinion.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

Canadians can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $400 per hour (depending on your situation) for a real estate lawyer. This varies based on the complexity of the transaction and regional differences.

Some real estate lawyers offer flat-fee services that cover all standard aspects of your transaction. Others may charge additional fees for more complex transactions, such as those involving commercial properties, rental properties, or situations requiring extra legal work. Always request a detailed breakdown of expected costs during your initial consultation to avoid surprises on your closing day.

Can a Real Estate Lawyer Represent the Buyer and Seller?

So, can a lawyer represent both parties in real estate? In real estate transactions, it’s generally considered a conflict of interest for a single lawyer to represent both the buyer and the seller. This is because the interests of the buyer and the seller can often be at odds. The seller aims for the highest price and best terms, while the buyer typically wants the opposite. A single attorney representing both parties can be put in a difficult position, trying to serve two masters with diverging goals. Dual representation also increases the risk of malpractice claims, as either party might later believe they were inadequately represented if the deal goes awry. Each party deserves an advocate who can negotiate and advise with their best interests in mind. This becomes compromised when one lawyer tries to balance the needs of both parties.

Now that you better understand the real estate lawyer’s role, it’s time to choose one that will best represent you throughout the transaction. Choosing a real estate lawyer is something your RE/MAX agent can help you with, as they often work closely with trusted professionals. 

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will make housing one of his top economic priorities for his incoming government.

In the April 28 federal election, Carney and the Liberals defeated Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives, obtaining a minority government. Now that the campaign is over, the prime minister and the Grits will get to work and submit policies to grapple with some of the nation’s biggest challenges.

The prime minister, in his first press conference since winning the election, vowed to transform Canada’s economy as the country engages in battles at home and abroad. A key plank of his government’s priorities will be housing, pledging to “create an entirely new Canadian housing industry.”

As part of a broader effort to double the pace of homebuilding to approximately 500,000 new homes per year, Carney has revealed several key ideas to achieve this lofty aim:

• Extend $25 billion in financing for prefabricated home builders.
• Eliminate the GST on new homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million. The GST will also be removed for first-time buyers for newly-built homes below $1 million.
• Lower municipal development charges for multi-unit residential housing.
• Cap immigration levels to ease housing demand pressures.

In addition, the former head of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England will establish Build Canada Homes, a government agency overseeing affordable housing development.

This may be the beginning of more things to come.

“In the coming weeks, I will unveil more of our plan to engage with Canadians as we embark on the biggest transformation of our economy since the end of the Second World War,” he told reporters.

Indeed, housing affordability has deteriorated across the country over the last few years. According to housing data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the national average home price is about $679,000, nearly 40 percent higher than pre-crisis levels.

Will Carney’s plans succeed in building supply and restoring price stability for prospective middle-income homebuyers in major urban centres and rural communities? Will the country reverse the trend of becoming a nation of renters? Will home prices be within reach for millions of Canadians? Will policymakers only focus on Toronto and Vancouver?

Industry experts have mixed views about the prime minister’s proposals.

What Canadians Can Expect When It Comes to Housing Under the ‘New’ Liberal Government

Carney’s GST idea, which his Conservative challenger also presented, is widely expected to pass almost as soon as the House of Commons is reconvened.

But whether it restores housing affordably or not remains to be seen.

Penelope Graham, a mortgage expert at Ratehub, told Global News that it is a positive move but would be a “drop in the bucket” for bolstering housing affordability.

“Will this move the dial in terms of affordability? Likely not in the more expensive markets. Pricing for brand-new construction is considerably higher than it is for resale stock. For example, the benchmark price for a new condo in Toronto is already a million dollars. That’s compared to a resale unit, which is around $680,000,” she said.

Experts say the bright spot in Carney’s housing plan is its emphasis on prefabricated housing. These units are constructed off-site in a factory and transported to a final location for assembly.

Studies show that prefab homes can reduce costs by up to 20 per cent and lower construction times by 50 per cent.

“Modular construction does not inherently mean affordable construction costs, but costs can become more predictable if they are intentionally controlled in the design and planning process,” an August 2024 University of Toronto study stated.

Despite research indicating their efficacy, factory-built homes account for less than 5 percent of Canada’s housing market, according to The Globe and Mail.

The Liberal plan would expand the supply by close to half a million new homes every year for the next decade. According to the prime minister, the new federal housing entity and an extension of the Housing Accelerator Fund would accomplish this.

While it is ambitious, experts say it is hard to envision happening as it did following the Second World War.

“When [CMHC] was involved in direct delivery of various programs back in the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, they established a network in the early post-war period of 96 branch offices across the country, staffed with architects, engineers, building inspectors, loans officers, underwriters, and so on,” said Steve Pomeroy, industry professor at McMaster University’s Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative, in an interview with Global News.

“I can’t imagine how at a single federal agency, you would actually be able to emulate that kind of support for local development.”

Caution: Work Ahead

The Canadian real estate market has undergone many developments in recent years, from soaring mortgage rates to a spike in demand. While Canadian officials at all three levels of government have offered solutions to the country’s housing challenges, affordability remains elusive. Will Prime Minister Carney’s plans ensure more households have access to the Canadian Dream of homeownership? The jury is still out.

5 Spring Cleaning Tips When Selling a Home with Pets 

Struggling to get your home free of pet hair before selling? Maybe you share your home with a dog, a cat, and even a rabbit, and getting rid of their remnants seems like an impossible task. Don’t worry! Our tips, created in collaboration with the experts at Pet Valu, are here to help pet owners navigate the cleaning process when selling their homes. No matter how many furry companions you have!  

With our tips and tricks, you’ll be able to freshen up your space and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. From choosing the best cleaners to staying ahead of pet fur, you can keep your home spotless, smelling good, and ready for showings at a moment’s notice!

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners  

Let’s face it, pet accidents happen, and when they do, your first instinct is probably to grab some paper towels, plus the nearest all-purpose cleaner. While that might seem sufficient, it often doesn’t fully eliminate the bacteria left behind, and the odours that linger long after the mess has been mopped up. If you have a pet that’s prone to frequent accidents (like puppies or older cats), it’s a good idea to invest in an enzyme-based cleaner.  

Unlike regular cleaners that often just mask the smell, enzyme cleaners break down the proteins in pet waste, helping to eliminate both the offending odor and its source – the bacteria. This is key to keeping your home smelling fresh, especially if it’s on the market!  

Boost Air Quality with a HEPA Filter 

Air filters became very popular during COVID, and they’ve stuck around for good reason. Today, they’re considered essential for maintaining a clean home. Air filters work by capturing airborne pollutants. Air purifying methods include physical barriers, absorption, and electrostatic attraction depending on your filter. The most recommended filter would be a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air filters), which is among the most effective on the market. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of airborne particles including dust, bacteria and pet dander.  

HEPA filters can also give your HVAC system a break by catching particles before they reach the main system. Some HEPA filters are even designed to be integrated directly into your home’s HVAC unit.  

During peak shedding seasons, it’s recommended to change your filters every one to two months to keep things running smoothly. If you’re preparing to sell your home, clean air can be just as important as clean floors. A HEPA filter can help reduce pet odors and allergens, creating a fresher, more attractive environment for potential buyers. 

Clean More Frequently with Multiple Pets 

Some people are perfectly happy with one dog. Others figure their pup needs a furry friend. Some might even dream of raising an entire litter. No judgment! Just make sure to check your local laws about how many pets (and what types) you’re allowed to have in your home.

Fun fact: In the Oak Bay neighbourhood in Victoria, you can be fined up to $100 for a noisy parrot! For a noisy parrot… For a noisy parrot…. You get the picture.  

No matter how many pets you have, or how exotic they may be, staying on top of shedding can be a full-time job. One helpful tip when you’re prepping your home to sell is to limit your pets’ access to certain areas of the house. That doesn’t mean confining them to a single room, but being strategic can make cleanup much easier. It also keeps your home ready to show.  

Pet hair and dander can accumulate quickly on soft surfaces like couches, rugs and curtains. If your pets do have access to these areas, make it a habit to vacuum frequently. Use lint rollers and spot clean as needed. Clean, fur-free furniture and fresh-smelling rooms will go a long way in helping potential buyers focus on your home’s best features, not on your pets’ presence. Experts recommend vacuuming twice a week if you have pets that shed. If your pet is a heavy shedder, daily vacuuming may be necessary.  

Reduce Shedding by Brushing Your Pet Regularly 

Being proactive and brushing your pet helps get ahead of shedding. You’ll get rid of all that loose hair before it even reaches the floor. Depending on your pet’s breed and coat type, grooming needs can vary significantly. Some pets require daily brushing, others weekly, and a few lucky homeowners may barely notice shedding at all. From long-haired cats and short-coated dogs to so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds (yes, they shed too!), pet hair is a common issue for pet owners looking to keep a clean home.  

In today’s competitive real estate market, first impressions matter to buyers who may not have pets themselves. A home that smells fresh, looks well-maintained, and is free of pet hair helps buyers see the value of your property. Staying on top of pet shedding is a small task that can make a big difference when selling your home. 

Prevent Muddy Paws from the Floor 

Spring can be a beautiful and messy time for pet owners. If you’re trying to keep your home looking clean while preparing for a noon showing, the last thing you want is muddy paw prints on your floors.  

Before letting your dog back inside after a run in the yard, use paw cleaning tools or even a damp towel to wipe their paws thoroughly. You can even take it a step further by teaching them to wipe their own paws at the door! With a bit of patience and training, you can create a designated spot by the door with a mat or towel. There, your dog can learn to wipe off their paws before coming inside. 

A cleaner home means fewer lingering smells, less visible dirt, and an overall more inviting environment for potential buyers. By staying on top of these details, you’re also protecting your floors and increasing the chances of a quicker sale and maybe even a better offer. 

A Clean House is a Happy (And Sellable) House! 

These 5 essential spring cleaning tips when selling a home with pets are designed to make your home spotless and inviting. Buyers are not just looking at walls, windows and furnishings. They’re trying to feel a connection and vibe. The goal is for them to walk in, take a deep breath, and feel right at home. Pet dander, hair and odors can quickly turn that positive vibe into a negative one. This creates a barrier between your home and potential buyers.  

Your buyer pool is likely to come from a diverse background. For example, some may have allergies or asthma. For them, pet dander can be more than just an inconvenience. It can be a real health concern. If a potential buyer walks into a home filled with pet fur and lingering dander, their first impression will probably be less than ideal. Worse, if they’re serious about the property but struggle with allergens, they may decide they need a deep clean before even considering a move-in. This added hassle can cause delays in the sales process or push buyers to look elsewhere.  

The goal is to remove any potential obstacles to your sale. Whether that’s the lingering smell of pet accidents or the sight of fur on your furniture, a little attention on your part can make a big difference. Need further assistance? A REMAX agent can help answer your questions related to buying and selling a home with pets. Help yourself by helping your home stand out and encourage buyers to imagine themselves living there, pet-free or not. With these simple tips, you’ll ensure your home is buyer-friendly, giving you the best chance to make a quick and successful sale.