John Gaio's blog

On those long, hot days of summer, there is no better way to cool down and relax than by taking a dip in a refreshing pool. And when it’s your own private oasis, even better still! If you’re considering installing a pool in your backyard, there are many important factors to consider. One of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with an in-ground pool or an above-ground version. Before you take the plunge… review this comprehensive list of the pros and cons of both options.

In-ground pool

Whether you’re planning a brief getaway or spending the winter months down south, it’s important to take precautions to keep your home safe while you’re away. There are many simple things you can do to deter break-ins, minimize risk of damage and ensure your peace of mind when no one is home. 

Consider these tips next time you are planning a trip:

During the pandemic, Canadians traded in their small spaces in vibrant urban centres for tree-lined streets in secondary cities. But, as we return to normal social activities and house prices in Canada’s largest city remain out of reach for first-time homebuyers, many are turning to condominiums as a more affordable way to enter Toronto’s tight real estate market. 

It’s the first place you visit when you wake up, and the last stop you make before going to bed. We all wish our bathroom would look and feel like a spa… Yet, for most of us, it’s one room in the home that never seems to have enough storage. Here are some helpful tips and handy storage solutions to maximize the space in a small bathroom:

As thousands of Canadians make their way to cottage country this May long weekend – the unofficial start of summer – many will be on the hunt for a recreational property to call their own. If you’re one of them, you may be curious to know what’s new since the release of the Royal LePage Spring Recreational Property Report in March of this year.

If you’re working on a home improvement project – whether for you to enjoy, or in preparation to put your property on the market – you may be interested to know which renos will give you the most bang for your buck.

A kitchen renovation is the most worthwhile home improvement, and has the potential to increase the value of your property by 20%, according to a recent survey of Royal LePage experts.  

If you’re interested in building a home or another kind of building in Canada, your first step will be to buy land. Though vacant land is generally less expensive than properties with existing structures, it can still cost quite a lot of money. This is particularly true for large plots of land or land in very desirable locations.

Royal LePage has increased its 2022 forecast following record price gains in the first quarter of 2022. The aggregate price of a home in Canada is expected to be 15% higher in the fourth quarter of this year compared to the end of 2021, following a supercharged start to the year. As we enter the spring market, buyer hopefuls continue to be challenged by tight competition, due to a chronic shortage of supply, despite a slight increase of inventory hitting the market in some regions. 

Strong demand for cottages, and properties in close proximity to lakes and mountains, continues to outpace supply in recreational regions across Canada. According to the Royal LePage 2022 Spring Recreational Property Report, the aggregate price of a single-family home in Canada’s recreational market is forecast to increase by 13% in 2022, to $640,710. This is following a 26.6% year-over-year increase in prices last year. 

The air is warmer, the days are getting longer, and after an exceptionally snowy winter, the grass is starting to reveal itself. Spring is upon us, which means all that snow is going to melt. Be sure to take these important steps to protect your home and prevent major water damage during the thaw.