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.

It All Starts With Real Data — Not Guesswork

The foundation of any pricing strategy is a thorough Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). But not all CMAs are created equal.

We dig deep into current and historical data from your neighbourhood — not just Burlington in general, but your specific pocket. Whether you’re in Shoreacres, Roseland, Aldershot, or another local area, we evaluate:

• Recent sales: What homes like yours have actually sold for in the past 30–90 days

• Active listings: What your competition looks like and how your home compares

• Expired listings: Which properties didn’t sell, and what we can learn from them

• Micro-trends: What’s happening on your street or within your school district

We consider critical value drivers such as square footage, lot size, age and condition of the home, upgrades and renovations, finishes, and layout. If you’ve updated your kitchen or added a basement suite, we’ll ensure those improvements are accounted for properly.

Timing is a Strategic Tool

A smart pricing strategy is always informed by timing. Burlington’s market ebbs and flows throughout the year, and aligning your price with market conditions can give you a major advantage.

For example, spring and early summer often bring out motivated buyers and higher competition, which can push prices up — but only if you’re positioned correctly. On the other hand, listing in a slower period like late fall or early winter might mean adjusting slightly to meet more cautious buyer sentiment.

We look at:

• Seasonal buyer activity

• Current average days on market

• Recent mortgage rate changes

• Broader economic indicators

Our goal is to help you list when the market is working for you — not against you.

Pricing for Online Visibility and Buyer Psychology

With most buyers starting their search online, pricing has to work digitally just as much as it does strategically. That’s why we consider how your home will show up in search filters. For example, pricing your home at $999,900 instead of $1,000,000 could expose it to two different price brackets — potentially doubling your visibility.

We also take into account buyer psychology. A well-priced home creates urgency. It makes buyers feel confident and competitive. An overpriced home, on the other hand, often leads to hesitation and lowball offers — or no offers at all.

We help you walk that fine line between maximizing your return and keeping your home attractive in the eyes of the most serious buyers.

It’s Not Just About Comparables — It’s About Your Home

No two homes are exactly alike — and that’s why we go beyond comps. We look at what sets your home apart and ensure those standout features are reflected in the price.

Do you back onto greenspace? Are you walking distance to the lake or GO Train? Have you invested in high-end finishes or smart home technology? Is your basement income-producing or ideal for multi-generational living?

Buyers are willing to pay more for features that enhance their lifestyle. We make sure those details are front and centre — in the listing, in the marketing, and in the pricing.

Communication is Key

The pricing conversation isn’t a one-way street. We believe in full transparency and collaboration throughout the process. We’ll present our research, explain our rationale, and talk through your priorities — whether you're hoping to sell quickly, maximize your return, or coordinate your sale with a new purchase.

We don’t throw out a number and walk away. We work with you to arrive at a price that makes sense — for the market, and for your goals.

Why It All Matters

The first days your home is on the market are the most important. That’s when it’s fresh, exciting, and getting the most eyes — both online and from agents actively searching for their buyers. The right price helps you capitalize on that moment.

Homes that are priced correctly from the start:

• Generate more showings and offers

• Sell faster

• Typically achieve a higher final sale price than those that reduce later

Homes that are overpriced:

• Sit on the market longer

• Can become “stale” in the eyes of buyers

• May ultimately sell for less than they would have with the right initial strategy

Our job is to make sure you don’t leave money on the table — and that you don’t waste time either.

Myth #1: “I’ll make a ton more money if I price my home high and wait.”

Reality: In today’s market, overpricing can do more harm than good. Buyers are savvy—they’ve done their research, watched the neighbourhood, and they know when a home is overpriced. A high price might actually scare away serious buyers, and the longer a listing sits, the more people wonder what’s wrong with it. The right pricing strategy (backed by data) creates competition and often leads to better offers—sometimes even over asking.

Myth #2: “Spring is the only time to sell.”

Reality: While spring is traditionally busy, homes sell all year long—and often for just as much. Summer and fall have their own advantages: less competition, motivated buyers, and beautiful curb appeal. Plus, serious buyers don’t wait for the calendar—they act when the right property comes up. Timing is important, but strategy is everything.

Myth #3: “Open houses sell homes.”

Reality: Open houses can build buzz, but most homes today sell through strong marketing, online exposure, and private showings. That said, open houses still offer value—especially for nosy neighbours who become real buyers (yes, it happens). The key is not relying only on open houses, but using them as part of a full marketing plan.

Myth #4: “You don’t need a realtor in this market.”

Reality: With so much on the line, going it alone can be risky. Whether you're buying or selling, there’s negotiation, legal paperwork, inspections, and timing to juggle—and one misstep can cost thousands. A great agent (hi, that’s me!) helps you navigate it all with confidence, strategy, and way less stress.

Myth #5: “I should wait until interest rates drop to buy.”

Reality: We hear this one daily—but trying to “time” the market perfectly is a gamble. While rates matter, waiting can mean paying more for the same home later if prices rise. If you’re financially ready and find a property that fits your lifestyle, that’s your window. And you can always refinance later if rates go down.

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.