What is a Vendor Take Back Mortgage?

A Vendor Take Back mortgage is a financing arrangement where the seller of a property lends money directly to the buyer to help them complete the purchase. Instead of securing a loan from a bank, the buyer agrees to make regular mortgage payments directly to the seller. This type of financing is only available if the seller owns the property outright, with no existing mortgage.

This strategy is especially helpful when buyers face challenges securing a conventional mortgage due to limited credit history, tight lending criteria, or insufficient down payment funds. On the flip side, it allows sellers to earn interest on their money while selling their home faster in a competitive or slow-moving market.

How Does a Vendor Take Back Mortgage Work?

In a VTB mortgage, the seller essentially becomes the lender. The buyer still signs a formal mortgage agreement, pays interest, and agrees to a repayment schedule—similar to a traditional mortgage—with the terms negotiated directly between the two parties.

The amount provided through a VTB can vary:

• It may cover a portion of the down payment.

• It might serve as secondary financing to bridge the gap between the buyer’s funds and the primary mortgage.

• In some cases, it may finance the entire purchase, especially for commercial properties or vacant land.

Structuring Options for a VTB Mortgage

There are several ways to structure a vendor take back mortgage, depending on the property type and the needs of both parties:

1. Secondary Financing

This is the most common format, where the VTB acts as a second mortgage behind the buyer’s primary lender. The buyer secures a traditional mortgage and uses the VTB to cover additional costs. This setup typically involves a higher interest rate to compensate the seller for being in a secondary position.

2. Primary Financing

For unique properties, such as vacant land or commercial real estate, the seller might offer the full financing package. While this places more risk on the seller, it also provides greater control and can help offload hard-to-sell properties.

3. Balloon Payment Arrangement

In this structure, the buyer makes smaller monthly payments and one large “balloon” payment at the end of the term (typically 1–5 years). This gives the buyer time to refinance or improve their financial position while providing the seller with steady income and a lump sum later on.

Benefits of a Vendor Take Back Mortgage

For Buyers:

• A chance to purchase a property despite challenges with credit or down payment.

• Flexible terms negotiated directly with the seller.

• Ability to build equity and refinance later with traditional lenders.

For Sellers:

• Sell your property faster, especially in a buyer’s market.

• Generate additional income through interest payments.

• Defer capital gains taxes, spreading them over time.

Considerations Before Entering a VTB Agreement

While vendor take back mortgages offer flexibility, they are not without risk.

For Sellers:

• If the buyer defaults, recovering the funds may require costly legal action.

• Sellers take on the risk of financing someone who may not qualify with a bank.

• A legal agreement drafted by a real estate lawyer is essential to protect the seller's interests.

For Buyers:

• Buyers must budget for two monthly payments if the VTB is structured as secondary financing.

• A balloon payment requires careful planning and access to refinancing options when it comes due.

• Always review the interest rates and terms closely to avoid surprises.

VTB Mortgages for Investors

Vendor take back mortgages are especially popular among real estate investors:

• Sellers can use VTBs to defer capital gains taxes on investment properties.

• Investors with lower credit can use a VTB as short-term financing, build equity, and eventually refinance.

• Monthly payments from the buyer provide passive income to the seller.

Is a Vendor Take Back Mortgage Right for You?

In today’s real estate market—marked by tighter lending standards and increasing home prices—VTB mortgages offer creative flexibility that can help both buyers and sellers achieve their goals. While they aren’t suitable for every transaction, they can be a game-changing tool in the right circumstances.

Whether you’re a buyer trying to secure financing or a seller looking to stand out and close the deal faster, a vendor take back mortgage might be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

🎉 Canada Day Festivities at Spencer Smith Park

The heart of Burlington’s Canada Day celebration is Spencer Smith Park (1400 Lakeshore Rd.), where festivities begin at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1. This full-day event is one of the most anticipated of the summer and includes:

• Live entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening

• A vibrant Kids Zone perfect for families

• Local vendors and food trucks serving delicious eats

• The Burlington Teen Tour Band performing during the official ceremony at 4:00 p.m.

• A drone light show and professional fireworks display to cap off the night

Pro Tip: Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen, and arrive early to get a good spot!

🎆 Where to Watch Fireworks in Burlington

If you’re wondering where to see fireworks in Burlington, the answer is clear: Spencer Smith Park is the safest and most spectacular spot. Hosted by trained professionals, the fireworks show is scheduled after sunset, following the drone light display.

Keep in mind that while residents are permitted to set off low-hazard, family fireworks on July 1 only, the City strongly encourages attending public shows instead. For more on Burlington’s fireworks bylaws, visit burlington.ca/fireworks.

🌳 Outdoor Fun and Family Activities

Beyond the festivities downtown, Burlington offers plenty of outdoor options for enjoying the long weekend:

• Splash Pads: Free and open all day across 10 locations. Find one near you.

• Swimming: Outdoor pools like Nelson, Mountainside, and LaSalle Wading Pool are open for walk-in lap and recreational swims (weather permitting).

• Trails & Parks: Hike, bike, or stroll through Burlington’s many trails and playgrounds. For picnic reservations at Hidden Valley or LaSalle Park, visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay.

• Golf: Tee times at Tyandaga Golf Course are available online or by phone: tyandagagolf.com.

What’s Open and Closed in Burlington on Canada Day

Closed on July 1, 2025:

• City Hall

• Halton Court Services

• Animal Shelter

• Indoor swimming pools

• Customer service counters

Modified Services:

• Transit will run on a Saturday schedule

• Free parking is available downtown, but not at waterfront lots

• Recreation staff are available by phone or email during holiday hours

For the full list of services and hours, visit burlington.ca.

Plan Ahead: Traffic, Parking & Safety Tips

Spencer Smith Park and the downtown waterfront will be very busy, so plan your trip accordingly:

• Consider walking, biking, or using transit to reduce congestion

• Use Honk Mobile for paid parking at Beachway Park and overflow lots

• Respect by-laws around fireworks and outdoor space usage

❤️ Celebrate Local, Celebrate Safely

Canada Day is more than a long weekend—it's a chance to celebrate the vibrant community that makes Burlington special. Whether you're soaking up live music at Spencer Smith Park, enjoying a splash pad with the kids, or watching the sky light up over Lake Ontario, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this patriotic day.

From all of us at The Smallbone Team, we wish you a joyful, safe, and memorable Canada Day in Burlington!

Ontario’s Housing Market: Cautiously Cool

For buyers and sellers in Ontario, the landscape remains complex. Despite the uptick in national sales, TD forecasts that home prices in Ontario are likely to decline in the second half of the year. The reason? A supply and demand imbalance that currently favours buyers. There are simply more homes on the market than there are active, motivated purchasers—especially in urban centres like the GTA, where the condo market continues to underperform due to weak investor demand.

That said, the average sale price may still see temporary upward pressure. Higher-end properties are more likely to sell in the current market, which can skew the average price upward, even as lower-cost segments lag behind. This "compositional boost" shouldn’t be mistaken for broad-based price growth—it’s more a reflection of which types of homes are moving right now.

What This Means for Sellers

If you're thinking about selling in the near future, it's more important than ever to position your home strategically. While demand is down overall, well-presented and appropriately priced properties—especially in desirable neighbourhoods—are still finding buyers. With more competition on the market, your listing needs to stand out, and working with a professional who knows how to attract serious, qualified buyers can make all the difference.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, particularly first-timers or those looking to upsize, this market offers a window of opportunity. With less competition and more negotiating power, it's possible to secure a home with favourable terms—something that was nearly impossible during the height of the pandemic-era market. However, affordability remains a key constraint, especially in Ontario. Even with prices softening slightly, high borrowing costs and economic uncertainty may continue to dampen purchasing power.

Looking Ahead to 2026

TD expects stronger market performance next year as the broader economy improves and interest rates begin to ease slightly. That could bring more buyers back into the market and put upward pressure on prices once again. However, don’t expect a dramatic rebound in affordability—especially in major centres like Toronto and Vancouver. Population growth is expected to slow, and without a significant increase in housing completions, supply constraints are likely to persist.

1. Your Current Home No Longer Fits Your Life

One of the most obvious signs you're ready to move is when your current home no longer suits your lifestyle. Maybe your family has grown and you need more bedrooms, or perhaps your kids have moved out and you’re left with more space than you care to maintain. A mismatch between your living space and your daily needs can create frustration, inefficiency, and even emotional stress. If you're constantly reconfiguring rooms, feeling crowded, or struggling to maintain unused areas, it's probably time to explore something more aligned with your life today.

2. Your Commute or Location Is Holding You Back

Location has a massive impact on quality of life. If you’re spending too much time in traffic, your neighbourhood no longer fits your lifestyle, or you've changed jobs and your commute has become unsustainable, it may be time to consider a move. Many buyers today are prioritizing proximity to work, family, schools, or amenities. A better location can dramatically improve your daily routine—and your overall happiness.

3. You’re Financially Ready

Perhaps your financial situation has improved, and you’re in a position to upgrade, invest, or purchase a second property. Alternatively, you may want to downsize to free up equity for retirement or other priorities. Whatever the case, financial readiness is a key sign you’re prepared to make a move. Speak with a mortgage advisor or real estate professional to understand your buying power and options in today’s market.

4. You’re Emotionally Detached from Your Current Home

When the emotional connection to your home starts to fade, it can be a clear signal that you're ready for a new environment. If you’ve stopped investing in décor, home improvement, or long-term plans for the property, you may already be mentally moving on. This emotional shift often happens gradually, and by the time homeowners recognize it, they’re more than ready to start fresh somewhere else.

5. You’ve Been Browsing Homes More Than Usual

If you find yourself checking real estate listings regularly, attending open houses "just to see what's out there," or following neighbourhood sales trends, it’s a strong sign you're already thinking about moving. These behaviours often indicate curiosity that stems from dissatisfaction—or excitement about a new opportunity. The key is to act when the interest becomes consistent and intentional.

The Shortfall in Supply Is Driving Market Volatility

The province has added 1.2 million people since 2021, yet home construction is falling short of the 100,000 new builds needed annually to hit the current targets—let alone the revised goal. With high construction costs, skilled labour shortages, and development delays, inventory remains tight. For buyers, that means less choice and more competition, especially for move-in ready or well-located homes. And while the condo market in some cities is seeing a temporary slowdown, suburban and family-friendly markets like ours remain resilient.

If you’re a buyer, that’s a strong signal to act now. Prices may have stabilized for the time being, but demand is expected to rebound. Delaying your purchase could mean facing steeper price increases and bidding wars when the market picks up again.

Sellers Still Hold the Advantage—But Strategic Pricing Matters

For sellers, this ongoing imbalance creates opportunity. While the headlines focus on falling sales volumes, well-presented and appropriately priced homes are still moving—often quickly. Buyers are cautious but motivated, especially in established neighbourhoods with access to good schools, transit, and amenities.

With fewer new homes coming to market than needed, existing homes—particularly renovated or updated properties—will continue to command strong interest. However, pricing strategy is critical. Overpricing in a data-savvy market can lead to extended days on market, even when demand is high.

What Comes Next: Policy, Construction, and Your Real Estate Goals

New legislation like Ontario’s Bill 17 aims to accelerate construction by reducing development charges and speeding up approvals, but real progress will take years. In the meantime, local buyers and sellers must navigate a market where policy ambitions are far ahead of practical outcomes.

Keep It Cool and Comfortable

Air conditioning isn’t just a luxury on hot days—it’s essential when you're showing your home. If your home has central air, set it to a comfortable temperature at least an hour before any showings. Not only does it create a refreshing retreat from the heat, but it also sends the message that your home is a well-functioning, comfortable place to live.

No AC? Use fans strategically to circulate air and open windows early in the morning or evening to bring in cooler air. Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun and prevent rooms from overheating.

Highlight Outdoor Space—but Wisely

Summer is when buyers dream about patios, decks, and gardens—but no one wants to linger outside when it feels like a sauna. If your outdoor space is a selling feature, stage it early in the morning or late in the day when temperatures dip. Consider setting up a sunshade or patio umbrella, putting out a pitcher of ice water, and making the space as inviting as possible, even in the heat.

Make the Pool a Star Feature

If your home has a pool, hot weather is your moment to shine. A well-maintained, sparkling pool can be a huge draw during summer showings. Be sure it’s clean, skimmed, and the water chemistry is balanced. Remove pool covers, arrange lounge chairs neatly, and add some fresh, folded towels nearby for a resort-like touch.

If you have lighting or water features, consider turning them on during twilight showings to create a serene atmosphere. And don’t forget to highlight any recent updates to the pool system—buyers love knowing it's turnkey and low-maintenance. A beautiful pool can be the ultimate heatwave luxury and a powerful selling point when marketed right.

Stay on Top of Smells and Humidity

High heat can cause stale air and lingering odours—especially in basements or laundry areas. Use a dehumidifier if needed, and don’t forget to empty garbage bins and clean out the fridge before showings. Fresh flowers or subtle citrus scents can go a long way, but skip heavy air fresheners that might come across as trying to mask something.

Protect Floors and Furniture

Hot weather often means more foot traffic from the outdoors, especially if you're hosting weekend open houses. Lay down washable mats at entrances to protect your floors from dust and scuffs, and consider using slipcovers on fabric furniture to avoid any sweat-related stains.

Be Flexible With Showing Times

If you’re selling during a heatwave, consider scheduling showings outside of peak heat hours. Midday can be punishingly hot, so late morning or early evening appointments often work better for everyone—and might keep buyers more focused and less rushed.

Bonus Tip: Cold Drinks Make a Big Impression

Little touches can have a big impact. Offering chilled water bottles or lemonade at open houses not only adds to your home’s appeal but also makes potential buyers feel welcomed and cared for—something they’ll remember long after the showing ends.

What Is Open Banking?

Open banking is a framework that allows you, as a consumer, to securely share your financial data—like income, account balances, and transaction history—with trusted third-party providers, including mortgage lenders, apps, and financial advisors.

Rather than manually downloading bank statements or submitting piles of paperwork, your information is shared through encrypted, secure APIs (application programming interfaces). And importantly, you remain in control—data is only shared with your explicit consent.

While open banking is already active in places like the U.K. and Australia, Canada is in the early stages, with federal regulators aiming to roll out a framework starting in 2025.

1. Faster Pre-Approvals and Applications

Today’s mortgage process often involves emailing pay stubs, downloading bank statements, or printing tax returns. Open banking would eliminate much of that friction. With your permission, lenders could instantly access the verified financial information they need.

The result?
Pre-approvals in minutes, not days. A simpler, more transparent experience—especially for busy buyers who want to act fast in a competitive market.

2. Better Mortgage Rates and Product Matching

With a fuller view of your finances, including real-time income and spending habits, lenders can assess risk more accurately. That means:

• More competitive interest rates for financially stable borrowers—even those without perfect credit scores

• Custom-tailored mortgage options based on your real-life financial profile

• A wider range of lenders to choose from, especially via mortgage brokers or fintech platforms

Instead of being limited to what one bank offers, open banking lets you shop the entire market more effectively.

3. More Transparency and Security

Open banking is designed with privacy and security at its core. Instead of uploading sensitive documents to different websites or emailing them back and forth, data is accessed securely through encrypted channels. You control exactly what’s shared and for how long, and you can revoke access at any time.

This reduces the risk of fraud and protects your data from being misused.

4. Smarter Financial Advice

Imagine a mortgage app that not only helps you apply for a loan, but also tracks your finances and alerts you when it’s a good time to refinance, move to a fixed rate, or consider a different mortgage product.

That’s the potential of open banking: financial tools that are truly personalized and proactive—not one-size-fits-all.

5. A Game-Changer for Self-Employed and Gig Workers

If you’re self-employed, applying for a mortgage can be especially difficult under traditional rules. But open banking makes it easier to prove income and spending patterns, opening the door to more inclusive lending practices.

1. Building Equity and Long-Term Wealth

Unlike rent payments that simply disappear every month, your mortgage payments contribute toward something tangible: equity. Over time, as you pay down your loan and your home appreciates in value, you build wealth. Homeownership is one of the most reliable ways Canadians accumulate long-term net worth. In fact, according to Statistics Canada, homeowners typically have significantly higher median net worth than renters.

2. Stability in an Unpredictable Rental Market

Rental prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand, landlord decisions, or market conditions. Owning your home offers a greater sense of stability, particularly with a fixed-rate mortgage. You can plan your financial future with more confidence, knowing your housing costs won’t spike unexpectedly.

3. Freedom to Personalize and Invest in Your Space

As a homeowner, you’re free to customize your space without needing approval. Whether it’s a kitchen renovation, a backyard garden, or simply painting the walls your favourite colour, your home becomes a true reflection of your lifestyle. Every improvement you make can also increase the property’s overall value.

4. Tax Advantages and Financial Incentives

Canadian homeowners may benefit from various government programs and tax incentives, especially first-time homebuyers. The First Home Savings Account (FHSA), the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), and potential rebates on land transfer taxes are all designed to support Canadians on their path to ownership.

5. A Sense of Community and Belonging

Homeownership often leads to deeper roots in a community. When you own your home, you’re more likely to invest time and care into your neighbourhood, establish long-term relationships, and become involved in local events. This connection can lead to a stronger sense of belonging and overall well-being.

6. Legacy and Generational Benefits

Owning a home can provide a financial and emotional legacy for your family. Whether it’s passing the property down to children, leveraging equity to support education or retirement, or simply creating a stable foundation, your investment can benefit generations to come.

Why Preparing Your Home for an Open House Matters

Start by removing excess furniture and personal items such as family photos, trophies, or collections. Decluttering makes rooms feel larger and helps buyers focus on the features of the home rather than your belongings.

Pro tip: Rent a storage unit temporarily if needed, to keep things out of sight.

Step 2: Deep Clean Every Corner

A spotless home sends a message that the property has been well cared for. Pay close attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, and even less obvious spots like baseboards and ceiling fans.

Hiring professional cleaners can make a big difference in presentation and reduce your stress before the big day.

Step 3: Make Necessary Repairs and Touch-Ups

Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, chipped paint, or cracked tiles. Small repairs reassure buyers that the home is move-in ready and well maintained.

A fresh coat of neutral paint in high-traffic areas can brighten your home and appeal to a wider audience.

Step 4: Maximize Curb Appeal

The exterior is the first thing buyers see. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, plant fresh flowers, and power wash siding and walkways.

Consider adding a welcoming doormat and making sure the front door looks inviting with a fresh coat of paint or polished hardware.

Step 5: Stage Thoughtfully

Arrange furniture to highlight the space and flow of each room. Use neutral, light colors and add touches like fresh flowers, soft lighting, and minimal decor to create a warm atmosphere.

If staging feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional stager who can showcase your home’s potential.

Step 6: Set the Right Ambience

On the day of the open house, open windows to let in natural light and fresh air. Use subtle scents like vanilla or citrus, and play soft background music to create a welcoming environment.

Make sure the temperature is comfortable and that all lights are turned on to brighten up spaces.

Step 7: Prepare Your Home for Visitors

Secure valuables and remove pets to avoid distractions. Leave informative flyers or brochures about the property in visible spots, and ensure clear signage guides visitors to the open house.

Pros of Buying a Home

1. Building Equity Over Time
One of the biggest advantages of buying a home is that your monthly mortgage payments contribute toward building equity. Unlike rent payments, which go to a landlord, owning a home means investing in an asset that can grow in value.

2. Stability and Control
Homeownership offers stability. You won’t have to worry about lease renewals or unexpected rent increases. Plus, you have the freedom to personalize and renovate your property as you see fit.

3. Potential Tax Benefits
Homeowners may qualify for tax deductions such as mortgage interest and property taxes, which can reduce your overall tax burden.

4. Long-Term Investment
Real estate historically appreciates in value, making homeownership a potential source of long-term wealth. Plus, owning a home can provide financial security during retirement.

Cons of Buying a Home

1. High Upfront Costs
Buying a home requires a significant initial investment including a down payment, closing costs, home inspections, and moving expenses.

2. Maintenance and Repairs
As a homeowner, you are responsible for all maintenance and repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming.

3. Less Flexibility
Selling a home takes time and can be complicated, making it harder to relocate quickly for job changes or personal reasons.

4. Market Risk
Property values can fluctuate based on the real estate market and local economy, meaning your investment isn’t guaranteed to increase in value.

Pros of Renting a Home

1. Lower Upfront Costs
Renting typically requires a security deposit and first month’s rent, making it more affordable upfront compared to buying.

2. Flexibility
Leases are usually short-term, allowing renters to move easily without the hassle of selling a property. This flexibility is ideal for people who might relocate frequently.

3. No Maintenance Costs
Renters aren’t responsible for repairs or maintenance, which means fewer unexpected expenses.

4. Access to Amenities
Many rental properties come with shared amenities like gyms, pools, or common spaces, which might be expensive to maintain in a private home.

Cons of Renting a Home

1. No Equity Building
Monthly rent payments go to the landlord and don’t contribute to ownership or investment.

2. Rent Increases and Lease Restrictions
Landlords can raise rent prices or impose restrictions that limit your ability to personalize the space or have pets.

3. Less Stability
Renters may face eviction or non-renewal of leases, creating uncertainty.

4. Limited Control
Renters usually cannot renovate or make significant changes to their living space.

A Rebound in Key Markets

According to recent reports, home resales rose in May 2025 across several major urban centres, including Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Fraser Valley, Saskatoon, and Regina. While activity remains well below the highs of previous years, this uptick represents a break from the downward momentum seen earlier in 2025.

This modest recovery appears tied to easing fears surrounding the global trade environment. Although concerns linger, particularly in regions impacted by tariff escalations, the overall tone in recent weeks has improved. That optimism may be translating into action, as sidelined buyers begin to re-enter the market.

Southern Ontario: Still Soft, But Stabilizing

Markets in southern Ontario, including the Toronto region, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Cambridge, remain among the softest in the country, with activity levels near cyclical lows. Home prices in these areas continue to face downward pressure. In fact, the MLS Home Price Index declined again in May in most of these cities compared to April.

However, in Toronto, signs of stabilization are beginning to emerge.

Toronto: Turning a Corner?

Toronto’s real estate market had been hit hard by spring’s economic uncertainty. Sales activity dropped to levels not seen in decades, while price declines rattled seller confidence. But May saw an 8.4% increase in resales over April, marking the second consecutive monthly gain.

This shift could reflect a growing sense that the worst-case economic outcomes may be behind us. With interest rates cut earlier this year and inventory at multi-decade highs, buyers are in a strong negotiating position, which may help fuel activity heading into the second half of the year.

Still, Toronto home prices are down 4.5% year-over-year, and with supply continuing to outpace demand, further softening is likely in the short term.

Calgary and Montreal Show Relative Strength

While Toronto and Vancouver remain fragile, other markets are proving more resilient.

Calgary: Demand Rebounding as Economy Grows

Calgary saw a notable rebound in May, with estimated resales jumping over 8% from April. Thanks to strong population growth and an employment rate growing nearly three times faster than the national average, demand remains healthy.

Although Calgary’s MLS HPI declined year-over-year for the first time since 2020, new construction and additional inventory are helping to keep the market balanced. Buyers are taking advantage of greater selection without the urgency of last year’s pace.

Montreal: Holding Steady Amid Uncertainty

Montreal continues to demonstrate relative stability. Though resales dipped slightly by 2% in May, activity remains at what would have been considered solid pre-pandemic levels. Tight inventory has supported pricing, with median prices rising 8.6% for single-family homes and 4.3% for condos year-over-year.

Montreal’s market doesn’t appear overheated, but steady growth in new listings could gradually temper price appreciation in the months ahead.

Vancouver: A Buyer’s Market Emerges

Unlike Calgary and Montreal, Vancouver remains in correction mode. May likely marked the sixth straight month of declining resale activity, returning to lows last seen in 2023.

Inventory is high — the highest in over a decade — and competition between sellers is putting pressure on pricing. Vancouver’s MLS HPI dropped 2.9% year-over-year, and with buyers staying cautious, downward pressure may continue.

With supply growing and buyers holding the upper hand, Vancouver remains firmly a buyer’s market for now.

What This Means for Southern Ontario Sellers

While national trends point to stabilization, southern Ontario remains in a period of adjustment. Activity levels are picking up slowly, but pricing remains under pressure — and inventory is abundant in many areas.

For sellers in Burlington, Oakville, and the GTA, this means that pricing your home accurately is more important than ever. Buyers have choices. Sellers need strategy.

At The Smallbone Team, we use a deep, data-informed approach to valuation, helping you list with confidence and clarity in today’s evolving market.

Best Cafés in Burlington

1. Tamp Coffee Co. (Downtown Burlington)
Located steps from the lake, Tamp is a must-visit for coffee lovers. With expertly crafted espresso, bright interiors, and a rotating selection of local pastries, it’s a go-to spot for both casual catchups and remote work days.

2. Lola Choco Bar and Sweet House (Plains Road, Aldershot)
A hidden gem for those with a sweet tooth. This charming café serves decadent hot chocolates, homemade desserts, and delicious light fare — all in an Instagram-worthy setting.

3. Saving Thyme (Upper Middle Road)
Part café, part French bakery, this spot blends European flavour with Burlington hospitality. Their almond croissants are a local favourite, and the casual ambiance makes it perfect for a mid-day break.

Top Local Restaurants

1. Spencer’s at the Waterfront (Downtown Burlington)
Spencer’s offers a refined dining experience with unbeatable lake views. Known for fresh, seasonal ingredients and upscale service, it’s ideal for celebrations or date nights.

2. The Martini House (Downtown)
Located in a character home just off Brant Street, this restaurant blends charm and culinary creativity. From seafood towers to signature martinis, it never disappoints.

3. Familia Fine Foods (Fairview Street)
For something casual and incredibly flavourful, this family-run spot serves up Latin-inspired meals made with heart. It’s a local favourite for takeout — perfect after a busy day of showings or open houses.

4. The North Coal (Lakeshore Road)
A newer addition to the waterfront strip, The North Coal offers elevated comfort food in a modern, cozy setting. With a strong focus on Canadian ingredients and outdoor seating, it’s a favourite among locals.

Local Shops to Explore

1. Joelle’s & Jeff’s Guyshop (Brant Street)
This boutique is a Burlington staple for curated fashion and lifestyle pieces. Think: luxury denim, Canadian designers, and thoughtful gifts — all wrapped in exceptional service.

2. Centro Garden (Downtown)
More than just a garden shop, Centro is a design haven. You’ll find greenery, home décor, and beautiful seasonal installations. A great place to get inspired, whether you’re decorating or staging.

3. Pure Boutique (Village Square)
Tucked into the cobblestones of Village Square, Pure offers clothing, accessories, and unique home items — all with a focus on quality and understated elegance.

4. Burlington Farmer’s Market (Spring–Fall, Burlington Centre)
For locally grown produce, handmade goods, and fresh florals, nothing beats the Burlington Farmer’s Market. It's also a great way to connect with the community and support small businesses.

Why We Love Local

Supporting local businesses doesn’t just boost the local economy — it builds connection. These are the spots where deals are celebrated over coffee, new friendships are made across dinner tables, and everyday moments feel a little more special. When we help clients find a home, we’re not just thinking about square footage — we’re thinking about how your daily life can flourish here.

If you’re looking for a home that’s walking distance to your favourite café or just a quick drive from the best brunch in town, let’s chat. We know Burlington — and we know where to find the lifestyle that fits you best.