1. Maximize Curb Appeal with Seasonal Touches

Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see, and summer gives you the perfect opportunity to make it shine. Freshen up garden beds, mow the lawn regularly, and trim any overgrown trees or shrubs. Add a splash of colour with potted flowers near the front door or on the porch. Power wash siding, walkways, and decks to remove built-up grime, and ensure your house number is clearly visible.

If you're selling a home in South Burlington neighborhoods like Shoreacres or Roseland, these well-kept exteriors help match the elevated expectations of buyers in these sought-after communities.

2. Keep It Cool and Comfortable Inside

There’s nothing worse than walking into a stuffy house during a hot summer day. When showing your home, make sure it feels like a welcome retreat. If you have air conditioning, keep it running at a comfortable temperature. Ceiling fans and open windows (if the weather allows) can also help circulate air.

Buyers may not say it out loud, but the comfort level inside your home can influence how long they linger—and how they feel about making an offer.

3. Let the Light In, But Filter It Smartly

Summer sun is a major asset, but it can also cause glare or heat buildup. Open blinds and curtains to showcase natural light, but consider using sheer panels or light-filtering shades to soften overly bright rooms. Clean all windows inside and out to let that sunshine in without streaks or dust.

Light, bright interiors photograph beautifully—and in today’s digital-first buying experience, your listing photos are crucial.

4. Stage with Summer in Mind

Subtle staging changes can make your home feel fresh, inviting, and seasonally appropriate. Swap out heavy throw blankets and dark-coloured décor for lighter fabrics and neutral tones. Add simple touches like fresh-cut flowers, citrus-scented diffusers, or a bowl of summer fruit in the kitchen.

In outdoor spaces—especially in Burlington homes with backyards or patios—set up a seating area that shows off your space for summer entertaining. A clean BBQ, a few lanterns, and a couple of patio chairs can help buyers imagine themselves enjoying warm evenings in their new home.

5. Tidy Up for a Lived-In (But Not Overlived) Look

Summer is a busy season for families, but clutter is a fast way to turn buyers off. Pack away personal items, toys, and seasonal gear like sports equipment or pool accessories. Buyers want to see your home, not your lifestyle.

This is also a good time to depersonalize. While a few family photos or warm touches are fine, too much personal décor can make it harder for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

6. Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

If you're hoping to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, a pre-listing inspection can give you a competitive edge. It shows buyers you’ve taken care of the home and can help avoid last-minute surprises. Summer buyers often move fast, and a well-documented, move-in ready home is highly appealing.

7. Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

Finally, the best summer home-selling tip is to team up with an experienced local Realtor who understands the market, the season, and your neighbourhood. At The Smallbone Team, we specialize in preparing homes across Burlington—including Aldershot, Shoreacres, and Roseland—for a successful summer sale.

From staging advice to pricing strategies and top-tier marketing, we’ll ensure your home stands out when buyers are most active.

What Is the Sutherland Class Action Lawsuit?

At its core, the lawsuit claims that Canada's current real estate commission model is anti-competitive. Specifically, it argues that sellers are unfairly required to pay not only their own agent’s commission but also the commission for the buyer’s agent. The plaintiffs say this practice inflates the cost of selling a home and limits a seller’s ability to negotiate commission fees freely.

The lawsuit targets several major brokerages and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), asserting that these entities have upheld a system that discourages open competition and transparency.

What Could Change in the GTA Real Estate Market?

If the lawsuit is successful, we could see substantial changes in how real estate services are delivered and paid for. Here’s what buyers and sellers might expect:

1. Buyer and Seller Commissions May Be Separated

One of the biggest changes could be the decoupling of commissions. Instead of the seller covering the cost of both agents, buyers may be expected to pay their agent directly. This shift could make fees more transparent but also place a greater financial burden on buyers—particularly first-time homebuyers.

2. More Flexibility in Commission Structures

The standard 5% commission split could become a thing of the past. Instead, we may see flat fees, tiered pricing, or à la carte service models. Buyers and sellers will likely have more choices in how they pay for representation, and agents will need to clearly articulate the value they provide.

3. Increased Emphasis on Transparency and Value

In a more open marketplace, real estate professionals will be expected to clearly outline their services and fees. Consumers will have more room to ask questions and compare options before committing. This could raise the bar across the industry in terms of professionalism, marketing quality, and negotiation skills.

4. Changes to Buyer Representation Agreements

We may also see the standardization of buyer contracts, where agents clearly define their compensation and responsibilities before starting a home search. Buyers will need to be more informed about what they're signing and what services they’re receiving in return.

How Will This Affect Burlington and the Surrounding Areas?

As a team that works throughout Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding southern Halton communities, we anticipate that any legal or regulatory changes stemming from the Sutherland case will ripple across our local market. While some agents and brokerages may struggle to adapt, others will see this as an opportunity to innovate and deliver greater value to clients.

Our philosophy at The Smallbone Team has always been rooted in providing luxury service to every client, regardless of price point. Should the industry change, we remain committed to clarity, integrity, and results.

1. The Visionary

You walk into a home and immediately start mentally tearing down walls, retiling bathrooms, and turning that awkward den into a yoga studio. The current finishes don’t bother you—you see potential.

Your Superpower: Big-picture thinking and creativity

Watch Out For: Getting overwhelmed by renovation timelines or costs

Best Advice: Partner with a great inspector and contractor early so your vision is grounded in reality.

2. The Checklist Buyer

You’ve got your budget, your must-haves, your nice-to-haves, and your definite no-thank-yous. You're organized, decisive, and efficient.

Your Superpower: Clarity and confidence

Watch Out For: Getting too caught up in the list to see the feel of the home

Best Advice: Stay open to homes that check 8/10 boxes—you might be surprised where you end up happiest.

3. The Emotional Buyer

You know the moment you walk in. There’s a vibe. A feeling. You picture your furniture in the living room and your dog sunbathing by the patio door. That’s it. You’re in love.

Your Superpower: You’ll know when it’s right

Watch Out For: Falling for a home before checking all the practical details

Best Advice: Bring someone grounded (like me!) to help you balance heart and head.

4. The Deal Hunter

You’ve got spreadsheets, comps, and a sixth sense for price drops. You love a good negotiation and you know the market better than some agents (or at least think you do).

Your Superpower: Savvy decision-making

Watch Out For: Getting too focused on the “deal” and missing great opportunities

Best Advice: Remember, value isn’t just about price—it’s about long-term fit and resale too.

5. The Ghost

You browse listings daily. You show up to open houses. You might be pre-approved. But every time things get serious… you vanish.

Your Superpower: Gathering information

Watch Out For: Staying stuck in research mode

Best Advice: If you’re even thinking about buying in the next 6–12 months, it’s time to talk to a Realtor. (No pressure, promise.)

Before You List: Set the Stage for a Strong Sale

First impressions matter, and most buyers will form theirs within seconds of arriving—or scrolling online. Preparing your home before it hits the market can dramatically affect how quickly it sells and at what price.

Declutter and depersonalize. Remove excess furniture, family photos, and anything that distracts from the home itself. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space.

Make necessary repairs. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, and anything else that might suggest deferred maintenance. Small issues can raise big red flags.

Deep clean and consider staging. A spotless home shows pride of ownership. Professionally staged homes often sell faster and for more money, especially in competitive markets like Roseland or Shoreacres.

Work with a local expert. A seasoned agent will help you price strategically, understand market trends, and build a marketing plan that puts your home in front of the right buyers.

While Your Home Is on the Market: Stay Ready

Once your home is live on MLS, presentation remains key—and flexibility is essential.

Be showing-ready at all times. Keep things tidy, beds made, and surfaces clear. You never know when a last-minute showing request will come in.

Leave during showings. Buyers need to feel comfortable exploring the space. Leave the house during appointments and open houses to give them room to imagine life there.

Stay responsive. Your agent may need your input on feedback, pricing strategy, or offers. Prompt communication can make or break a potential sale.

Monitor market activity. If your home isn’t getting showings or offers within the first two weeks, it may be time to revisit your pricing or presentation strategy.

When Your Home Is Pending: Don’t Let Your Guard Down

Receiving an offer—especially a great one—is exciting, but there are still steps to navigate before it’s official.

Understand your conditions. Common clauses include financing, home inspection, or the sale of the buyer’s property. Your agent will help guide you through timelines and obligations.

Prepare for the inspection. Make sure all systems are accessible (furnace, electrical panel, attic, etc.), and tidy up. A smooth inspection can help solidify the deal.

Don’t make major changes. Keep utilities running, maintain the property, and avoid packing away essential items too early. The deal isn’t closed until it’s closed.

At Closing: Wrap It Up Smoothly

As closing day approaches, your focus should shift to final preparations and ensuring a seamless handoff.

Hire a real estate lawyer. They’ll help with paperwork, disbursements, and coordinating with the buyer’s legal team.

Schedule your move strategically. Avoid moving out on the actual closing day, as delays can happen. Aim for a day or two before, if possible.

Leave the home in good condition. The property should be clean, empty, and in the same state as when the offer was accepted—unless otherwise agreed upon.

Celebrate your next chapter. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, take a moment to recognize this milestone.

A Pause Amid Uncertainty

This rate hold comes as Canada faces mixed economic signals. First-quarter GDP growth was slightly stronger than anticipated at 2.2%, but that strength is already showing signs of fading. Consumption has slowed, resale housing activity has contracted sharply, and unemployment has risen to 6.9%. Inflation sits at 1.7%, temporarily pushed down by the elimination of the federal carbon tax—but underlying price pressures remain.

With ongoing global volatility, particularly surrounding U.S. tariff policy, the Bank is holding steady while it waits for more clarity. For real estate, this means we’re still in a limbo period—one where interest rates aren’t rising, but buyers and sellers alike are hesitant to act.

How This Impacts Buyers

For buyers, a steady rate means mortgage affordability isn’t worsening for now. If you’ve been on the sidelines waiting for a signal to jump back into the market, this could be it. While interest rates remain stable, housing prices in many areas have softened due to reduced demand, creating opportunities—especially in Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding regions.

That said, uncertainty around inflation and future rate movements means locking in a mortgage rate sooner rather than later could provide peace of mind. Partnering with a knowledgeable agent and a trusted mortgage broker can help ensure you're positioned to move quickly when the right home comes along.

What Sellers Should Know

If you're considering selling, it’s important to understand that buyers are currently cautious. Elevated borrowing costs, though stable, are still influencing affordability. Combined with weaker consumer confidence and a contracting resale market, this means pricing strategy is critical.

That doesn’t mean your home won’t sell—but it does mean you need to be realistic. Presentation, marketing, and professional guidance have never been more important. Homes that are well-prepared and competitively priced are still selling—but timing, pricing, and preparation matter more than ever.

Why the Market Feels Stuck

Even though interest rates have eased — with the Bank of Canada expected to keep its rate steady at 2.75% - the housing market hasn’t bounced back. Fixed and variable mortgage rates remain mostly above 4%, which is still too high for many potential buyers to enter the market.

There is a growing sense of caution. Buyers worry about overpaying in a softening market, especially in areas like the Toronto condo sector, where prices could dip further before stabilizing. Meanwhile, many sellers hold firm on prices set during the recent market peak, resulting in one of the lowest activity levels in decades.

This isn’t just a Toronto issue. Across Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and surrounding areas, similar trends are evident — stalled negotiations, longer days on market, and a definite wait-and-see attitude.

Buyers: Caution Can Work in Your Favour

If you’re a buyer today, this environment, while challenging, offers opportunities.

Inventory has increased in many neighbourhoods, providing more choice and leverage. Sellers are more willing to negotiate than they have been in years. But this window may not last long — if rates drop further, competition could heat up quickly.

Tips for today’s buyers:

• Start mortgage discussions early. Many lenders will hold a rate for up to 120 days, providing some protection if market conditions change.

• Work with an experienced real estate team. Especially in well-established communities like Shoreacres or Roseland, knowing how to identify long-term value is crucial.

• Do your due diligence. Taking time to complete thorough inspections and setting clear conditions protects you in this uncertain market.

Sellers: Price for the Market We Have

If you’re thinking of listing your home, it’s important to be realistic. Buyers are savvy and informed; they’re hesitant to act unless they see true value. That means pricing your home accurately from the start and being open to negotiation.

In markets like Burlington and Oakville, well-maintained homes with strong curb appeal, sought-after school districts, and lake proximity are still selling — but bidding wars have largely disappeared.

If your home is older or hasn’t been updated recently, expect buyers to factor renovation costs into their offers. Working with a real estate team that can market lifestyle and potential — not just square footage — makes all the difference.

Renewing Your Mortgage? Don’t Wait to Shop Around

Even if you’re not buying or selling, your mortgage renewal could impact your finances significantly. With lenders focusing best offers on new buyers, those simply renewing with their current lender risk overpaying.

Start early. Compare rates. Use lender competition to your advantage. A good mortgage broker or advisor can help you save thousands and avoid surprise rate hikes.

1. Swap Basic Fixtures for Statement Pieces

Lighting is one of the fastest ways to change the mood of a room. Replace builder-grade fixtures with stylish pendant lights, sconces, or a dramatic chandelier. Warm, layered lighting not only adds function but also gives your home a custom, upscale ambiance.

Pro Tip: Look for brass or matte black finishes—they’re timeless and instantly elevate a space.

2. Update Cabinet Hardware

In kitchens and bathrooms, cabinet hardware is often overlooked—but it's like jewelry for your cabinetry. Brushed gold, matte black, or mixed metal pulls and knobs can transform a dated kitchen into something sleek and modern for under $200.

3. Embrace Texture with Soft Goods

Luxury is often felt, not just seen. Adding rich textures through velvet throw pillows, woven blankets, or linen drapes can bring depth and softness to your living spaces. Stick to a cohesive colour palette for a designer look.

4. Add a Custom Touch with Paint or Wallpaper

Accent walls, especially in powder rooms or bedrooms, can create major impact for a minimal investment. High-end wallpaper or a rich, moody paint colour can elevate a room and offer that “wow” factor buyers love.

Local Tip: Visit paint boutiques in downtown Burlington for curated colour palettes that suit our southern Ontario light.

5. Create a Spa-Like Bathroom Feel

You don’t need to gut your bathroom to make it feel high-end. Invest in plush towels, upgrade your shower head, add a teak bathmat, and use decanted soaps in glass bottles for a clean, luxurious aesthetic.

6. Style with Intention

Luxury is in the details. A curated coffee table, fresh-cut flowers, and framed artwork create a polished, magazine-worthy vibe. When staging homes in Burlington, we always recommend adding a few lifestyle vignettes that suggest comfort, calm, and elegance.

If You Dream of a Lakeview Home in Shoreacres...

You appreciate life’s finer things — and you don’t apologize for it. You’re likely the type to sip your coffee black (from a local roaster, of course) while watching the sunrise over Lake Ontario. You believe in morning walks, strong opinions, and having your own space to recharge. You probably own at least one cashmere sweater and know how to pronounce “charcuterie” confidently.

Your home style: Refined, peaceful, and elegant — just like your Pinterest board.

If You’re Drawn to a Century Home in Roseland...

You’re nostalgic at heart and love a good story — especially when it comes with crown moulding and creaky hardwood. You’re the person who brings homemade pie to the block party and knows your neighbours by name. You see potential in every detail and probably have a soft spot for antique markets.

Your home style: Classic charm with just enough mystery to keep things interesting.

If You Fantasize About a Sleek Condo in Downtown Burlington...

You’re efficient, stylish, and always in the know. You love being a quick walk from brunch, yoga, and your favourite wine bar. Your furniture is probably Scandinavian-inspired, your lighting is on a dimmer, and you know how to maximize space better than anyone.

Your home style: Modern, minimal, and 100% you.

If You Crave a Sprawling Lot in Aldershot...

You value space, serenity, and Saturday mornings in the garden. You’re likely a plant parent (or a real parent), love a good farmer’s market haul, and have strong opinions about your composting system. You might drive an SUV, but you’d rather walk. Your dream home includes a sunroom, a big yard, and the sound of birds, not traffic.

Your home style: Nature-forward and proudly low-key luxe.

If You Just Want Something “Move-In Ready”...

You’re busy — and we mean really busy. You’ve got enough going on with work, life, and keeping track of the group chat. You don’t want to spend months renovating; you want something that feels like home now. Bonus points if it has neutral paint and an updated kitchen.

Your home style: Smart, polished, and ready for anything — just like you.

Experience That Guides You Through Market Shifts

Markets like this one don’t just test nerves—they test knowledge. An experienced realtor brings a deep understanding of how economic trends impact local home values, pricing strategies, and buyer behavior. When homes aren’t flying off the market overnight, and multiple offers aren’t guaranteed, your agent needs to know how to pivot, adapt, and deliver results.

Our team draws on years of hands-on experience in southern Burlington’s most desirable neighborhoods—like Shoreacres, Roseland, and Aldershot. We know what sells, what doesn't, and how to maximize value in any market conditions.

Trust Is the Foundation of Every Transaction

When things feel uncertain, trust matters more than ever. You need a realtor who is honest, responsive, and fully invested in your success. At The Smallbone Team, we don’t just close deals—we build relationships. Our clients trust us to give clear, objective advice—even when it's not what they expected to hear—because they know we’re always working in their best interest.

From our initial consultation to final negotiations, we’re committed to providing luxury-level service at every price point. That means detailed market insights, prompt communication, and a calm, professional presence every step of the way.

Strategy and Support in Uncertain Times

In a competitive and changing market, you can't afford guesswork. Sellers need smart marketing, accurate pricing, and strong negotiation. Buyers need fast access to listings, savvy bidding strategies, and someone to help them avoid costly mistakes.

We take a strategic, data-driven approach to every transaction—because success isn’t about luck. It’s about preparation, precision, and experience.

Local Knowledge You Can Count On

Real estate is hyper-local, and understanding the nuances of each neighborhood can make a big difference in your outcome. From school zones and walkability to inventory trends and price per square foot, our insight into Burlington’s south-end communities gives our clients a competitive edge.

We don’t just work here—we live here. That local knowledge is one of the biggest advantages we offer our clients, especially in a market that demands precision and timing.

What is the First-Time Home Buyers’ GST Rebate?

The FTHB GST Rebate eliminates or reduces the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on new homes for first-time home buyers. Specifically, the rebate offers:

• 100% GST rebate on new homes valued up to $1 million

• A partial GST rebate on new homes valued between $1 million and $1.5 million, phased out linearly

• No rebate available for homes valued above $1.5 million

This rebate allows first-time buyers to save up to $50,000 on GST, which can be a substantial help when budgeting for your new home.

Who Qualifies as a First-Time Home Buyer?

To qualify for the FTHB GST Rebate, you must meet these conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

• Not have owned a home — anywhere in Canada or abroad — in the current calendar year or the previous four calendar years

• Use the new home as your primary residence

• Be the first occupant of the home

This rebate targets genuine first-time buyers, ensuring the benefit helps those entering the housing market for the first time.

Eligible Properties for the GST Rebate

The rebate applies to the following types of new homes:

• New homes purchased from a builder (including on leased land) with purchase agreements signed after May 27, 2025

• Owner-built homes, where you build or hire someone to build a home on land you own or lease

• Shares of cooperative housing corporations (co-ops) where GST was paid on the new housing

For all these property types, the home must be substantially completed before 2036 to qualify for the rebate.

Important Conditions and Limitations

While the FTHB GST Rebate is generous, there are some important limitations to keep in mind:

• You can only claim this rebate once in your lifetime.

• If your spouse or common-law partner has already claimed it, you are not eligible.

• If you purchase a home through an assignment sale where the original purchase agreement was signed before May 27, 2025, you may not be eligible.

• Agreements signed before May 27, 2025, and subsequently canceled and re-signed will not qualify for the rebate.

These rules help ensure that the rebate supports new home buyers fairly and as intended.

How Much Can You Save?

The FTHB GST Rebate can save you up to $50,000 on GST, which translates to significant upfront savings. For example:

• On a $1 million home, you get a full rebate of the GST paid (up to $50,000)

• On a $1.25 million home, you could receive a 50% rebate (up to $25,000)

• No rebate is available for homes above $1.5 million

This new rebate can reduce your initial cost and help make that dream home more attainable.

Why This GST Relief Matters for First-Time Home Buyers in Canada

The First-Time Home Buyers’ GST Rebate aligns with the government’s commitment to making homeownership more accessible and affordable. It complements existing programs and reflects a broader effort to stimulate new home construction, supporting both buyers and the housing market.

If you are considering buying a new home for the first time, this rebate can significantly reduce the tax burden and make your purchase more financially feasible. It’s important to consult with your real estate professional and tax advisor to ensure you understand the application process and eligibility criteria.

1. Prime Location with Easy Access to Major Hubs

One of Burlington’s strongest advantages is its ideal location. Located along the QEW corridor, Burlington sits within commuting distance of Toronto, Hamilton, and Niagara. For professionals, this means easy access to employment centers without the congestion or fast pace of big-city living. With both GO Transit and VIA Rail services, commuting is convenient and reliable.

For those who work remotely, Burlington provides a peaceful, picturesque backdrop that fosters productivity and balance.

2. Exceptional Quality of Life

Burlington consistently ranks as one of Canada’s best places to live—and for good reason. With low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and a strong sense of community, it’s a safe and welcoming city for families and individuals alike. According to Maclean’s Magazine, Burlington has regularly appeared on their “Best Places to Live in Canada” list, with high marks in wealth, health, and weather.

The city is also recognized for its cleanliness, sustainability initiatives, and extensive green space planning, which contributes to its overall livability.

3. Top-Rated Schools and Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods

For families, Burlington offers access to highly rated public and Catholic schools, along with private and French immersion options. Neighbourhoods like Roseland, Shoreacres, and Millcroft are particularly attractive to families for their spacious homes, parks, and proximity to reputable schools.

There are also numerous community centers, sports leagues, and after-school programs, making it easy for kids to stay active and engaged.

4. Abundant Nature and Outdoor Recreation

Living in Burlington means having nature at your doorstep. The city is home to over 580 hectares of parkland and more than 30 km of trails. From the scenic waterfront trail to the Bruce Trail along the Escarpment, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, birdwatching, or simply taking in the views.

Spencer Smith Park, with its lakeside promenade, splash pad, and festivals, is a favourite gathering spot year-round. The Royal Botanical Gardens—Canada’s largest botanical garden—adds to the city’s lush and vibrant landscape.

5. Vibrant Downtown and Local Culture

Burlington’s downtown core is a hub of culture, dining, and entertainment. With its blend of boutique shops, independent cafés, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants, downtown Burlington has a unique charm that reflects the city’s warm and community-oriented spirit.

The Burlington Performing Arts Centre and Art Gallery of Burlington support a rich arts and culture scene. Events like the Sound of Music Festival and Ribfest draw thousands of visitors and create a strong sense of community pride.

6. A Strong Real Estate Investment

Burlington’s real estate market continues to show long-term strength and stability. Homes here tend to retain their value, and the city's ongoing investment in infrastructure and community planning supports sustained growth.

For buyers, it’s a place where your investment also enhances your lifestyle. For sellers, Burlington homes remain in demand thanks to the city’s consistent appeal across all demographics—from first-time buyers to downsizers.

1. Stay on Top of Maintenance

Neglecting routine maintenance is one of the fastest ways to erode your home’s value. Addressing small issues before they become major problems not only saves money but also maintains the structural integrity and appearance of your property. From servicing your HVAC system to cleaning gutters and repairing roof damage, consistent upkeep keeps your home market-ready and appealing.

Tip: Keep a seasonal maintenance checklist and schedule annual inspections for critical systems like plumbing, electrical, and roofing.

2. Invest in Strategic Upgrades

Not all renovations yield the same return on investment. Focus on improvements that buyers consistently value—updated kitchens and bathrooms, energy-efficient windows, and finished basements all tend to increase a home’s market appeal. If you're unsure where to start, consult a local real estate professional who understands what sells in your specific neighbourhood.

In Burlington, especially in established areas like Aldershot and Shoreacres, buyers often prioritize quality finishes, functional layouts, and tasteful updates that respect the character of the home.

3. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Enhancing your home’s exterior is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to protect its value. Fresh landscaping, a clean driveway, updated lighting, and a new coat of paint on the front door can dramatically increase perceived value—even if you’re not planning to sell soon.

4. Stay Informed About the Local Market

Understanding how your neighbourhood is evolving helps you make smarter decisions about your home. Keep an eye on market trends, property values, zoning changes, and planned developments. A professional real estate advisor can provide quarterly updates and comparative market analyses so you always know where your property stands.

The Smallbone Team provides personalized guidance to help homeowners stay aligned with the ever-changing Burlington market.

5. Protect Your Home with the Right Insurance

Insurance is more than a legal requirement—it’s a safety net for your investment. Make sure your coverage is up-to-date and includes protection against local risks like flooding or sewer backup, especially in older Burlington neighbourhoods where infrastructure may be dated. Review your policy annually and adjust as needed.

6. Document Improvements and Repairs

Keep a detailed record of all renovations, repairs, and upgrades. Not only is this helpful for your own peace of mind, but it can also add credibility and value when it comes time to sell. A well-documented home shows prospective buyers that the property has been cared for and is worth the asking price.

7. Work With a Real Estate Expert

Whether you're preparing for resale or planning long-term ownership, having a trusted real estate partner is essential. From assessing market trends to recommending high-ROI upgrades, the right advisor will help you make informed decisions that protect your home's value over time.