Not Getting Pre-Approved Before House Hunting

The Mistake:
Falling in love with a home before knowing what you can afford.

The Fix:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you even browse listings. It strengthens your offer and gives you a clear price range.

Underestimating Additional Costs

The Mistake:
Budgeting only for the down payment and mortgage

The Fix:
Factor in property taxes, home insurance, closing costs, maintenance, and potential repairs. A smart rule of thumb is to budget an extra 1–3% of the home’s price annually for upkeep.

Skipping the Home Inspection

The Mistake:
Waiving the inspection to speed up the deal or compete in a hot market.

The Fix:
Never skip a professional inspection. It can uncover hidden issues that might cost you thousands later.

Not Understanding Your Mortgage Options

The Mistake:
Choosing the first lender or loan type you come across.

The Fix:
Compare rates and terms from multiple lenders. Look into fixed vs. variable rates and consider first-time buyer programs you may qualify for.

Overextending Your Budget

The Mistake:
Buying at the top of your pre-approved amount.

The Fix:
Leave room in your budget for emergencies, life changes, or unexpected expenses. Just because you can afford it doesn’t mean you should.

Focusing Only on the House, Not the Location

The Mistake:
Buying a great home in the wrong area.

The Fix:
Consider commute times, school districts, local amenities, and neighborhood vibes. You can change the house—but not the location.

Making Emotional Decisions

The Mistake:
Letting your heart rule your head.

The Fix:
Stay objective. Create a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves and stick to it. The Smallbone Team can help keep you grounded.

Forgetting to Consider Resale Value

The Mistake:
Buying a property with unique features that could be hard to sell later.

The Fix:
Even if it’s your “forever home,” consider how desirable it will be to future buyers.

Not Working with a Real Estate Agent

The Mistake:
Trying to do it alone to “save money.”

The Fix:
A buyer's agent (like someone from The Smallbone Team) typically costs you nothing—the seller pays the commission. We protect your interests, negotiate on your behalf, and streamline the entire process.

Waiting for the “Perfect” Time

The Mistake:
Trying to time the market perfectly.

The Fix:
There’s never a “perfect” time—only the right time for you. If you’re financially and emotionally ready, don’t let market conditions delay your dreams.

Top 10 Home Buying Tips for 2025

Buying a home is one of the most exciting — and important — decisions you'll ever make. Whether you're a first-time buyer or returning to the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. That’s why The Smallbone Team is here to guide you with 10 essential home buying tips to help you make a smart, informed decision in today’s real estate market.

Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Looking

Before touring homes, talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage. This not only helps you understand your budget but also shows sellers you're serious.

Know Your Budget — and Stick to It

Factor in more than just the purchase price — property taxes, maintenance, utilities, and insurance all add up. Knowing what you can really afford helps avoid future stress.

Work With a Local Realtor You Trust

The market is constantly shifting, and having an experienced local agent makes all the difference. Our team brings decades of insight into local neighborhoods, pricing trends, and negotiating strategies.

Think Long-Term

Will this home meet your needs in 3–5 years? Think about your future lifestyle, career, family plans, or resale value before making a decision.

Don’t Skip the Home Inspection

Even if a home looks perfect, a professional inspection can uncover hidden issues. It's better to know now than deal with surprise repairs later.

Consider the Neighbourhood, Not Just the House

Look into the area's safety, schools, amenities, commute times, and future development plans. A great home in a poor location can become a costly mistake.

Avoid Big Financial Changes Before Closing

Hold off on large purchases, opening new credit cards, or switching jobs until after closing. Lenders will re-check your finances, and any changes can affect your loan approval.

Know What You Can Compromise On

No home is perfect. Decide what’s non-negotiable (e.g., location, number of bedrooms) versus what’s nice to have (like granite countertops or a pool).

Be Ready to Act Fast

In competitive markets, desirable homes go quickly. If you've done your homework, you'll feel more confident making a timely offer when the right one comes along.

Lean on The Smallbone Team

Navigating the home buying journey can feel complex — but you don’t have to do it alone. From first tour to final closing, our team will advocate for you every step of the way.

Ready to Find Your Dream Home?

At The Smallbone Team, we combine deep local knowledge with personalized service to help buyers make confident, informed choices.

Home Maintenance Checklist for Every Season

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest investments — and like any investment, it requires ongoing care. Staying on top of seasonal home maintenance not only protects your property but also boosts its long-term value.

At The Smallbone Team, we’ve created a comprehensive home maintenance checklist for every season to help you keep your home in top condition all year long.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect roof and shingles for winter wear

• Clean gutters and downspouts

• Service your HVAC system before summer

• Power wash windows, siding, and decks

• Check for pests and seal any exterior cracks

• Fertilize the lawn and plant garden beds.

Tip from The Smallbone Team: This is a great time to schedule larger exterior projects — painting, landscaping, or even deck repairs.

Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean ceiling fans and reverse blade direction

• Inspect windows and doors for leaks or drafts

• Service sprinkler systems

• Check and clean dryer vents

• Touch up exterior paint and trim

• Clean garage and storage spaces

Tip from The Smallbone Team: Summer is a great time to check for insulation issues and improve energy efficiency before fall.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean and inspect the chimney

• Check the furnace and replace filters

• Drain outdoor faucets and shut off water lines

• Rake leaves and aerate the lawn

• Inspect weather stripping and door seals

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Tip from The Smallbone Team: Early fall is a great time to schedule a roof inspection — especially if you’re thinking of selling soon.

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

• Monitor for ice dams and clear snow from gutters

• Check pipes for freezing risks and insulate if needed

• Keep walkways and driveways clear of ice

• Test your sump pump in case of winter thaws

• Inspect attic for proper insulation

• Stock up on emergency supplies and check smoke alarms

Tip from The Smallbone Team: A well-maintained home is easier to sell — even in the winter season.

Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters

Sticking to a seasonal home maintenance schedule prevents small issues from becoming expensive repairs. Whether you're planning to sell soon or stay long-term, your property’s value depends on how well it’s cared for.

Final Thoughts

Your home works hard for you all year — return the favour with regular maintenance. Use this seasonal home maintenance checklist to stay organized and ahead of problems.

Thinking of Selling? Let The Smallbone Team Help

A well-maintained home is more attractive to buyers and typically sells faster. If you're preparing your home for sale in Burlington, The Smallbone Team is here to help you every step of the way — from pre-listing advice to final closing.

Home Renovations That Increase Property Value in 2025: The Best Upgrades to Consider

When it comes to increasing the value of your property, home renovations are one of the most effective strategies. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to enhance the livability of your space, knowing which renovations provide the best return on investment (ROI) is crucial. As we step into 2025, the real estate market is evolving, and certain renovations are proving to offer greater value than others. At The Smallbone Team, we’ve compiled a list of the most cost-effective and impactful renovations to boost your home’s value.

1. Kitchen Renovations: A Modernized Heart of the Home

The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and for good reason—it’s where family meals are prepared, and gatherings take place. In 2025, upgrading your kitchen continues to be one of the most profitable renovations. A modern, functional kitchen with updated appliances, sleek countertops, and ample storage space is a huge draw for potential buyers.

2. Bathroom Remodel: Small Investment, Big Return

Bathrooms may be smaller spaces, but they pack a big punch when it comes to return on investment. In fact, bathroom renovations have long been known to provide some of the highest ROI in real estate. Modernizing a bathroom with sleek fixtures, new lighting, and water-saving technologies can make a significant difference in both comfort and home value.

3. Curb Appeal Enhancements: First Impressions Matter

While it may not be a major "renovation," improving your home’s curb appeal is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase its market value. First impressions matter, and a well-maintained exterior with thoughtful landscaping can significantly impact your home’s appeal to prospective buyers.

4. Basement or Attic Conversion: Maximize Your Space

In today’s market, more homebuyers are looking for additional usable space. If you have an underutilized basement or attic, converting it into a living area can dramatically increase your property’s value. Whether you turn the space into an extra bedroom, home office, or entertainment room, this type of renovation offers impressive ROI, especially in areas where square footage is at a premium.

5. Smart Home Technology: Future-Proof Your Property

As technology continues to evolve, so does the appeal of smart home features. Homes equipped with smart thermostats, lighting, security systems, and even voice-activated assistants are in high demand. Smart home technology not only makes living more convenient but also boosts your home’s value by positioning it as modern and energy-efficient.

6. Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Save Money and the Environment

As energy efficiency becomes a growing concern for homeowners, investing in energy-efficient renovations can enhance both your property’s value and its appeal to eco-conscious buyers. Green upgrades, such as new windows, insulation, and solar panels, can lower utility costs and contribute to a home’s long-term sustainability.

7. Open Floor Plans: Spacious and Connected Living Areas

Open floor plans have become a hallmark of modern home design, providing a sense of space and connectivity throughout the home. By removing walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, you can create a bright and airy environment that appeals to a wide range of buyers.

Conclusion: Renovate Smart, Not Hard

While there are countless ways to renovate your home, it’s essential to focus on upgrades that will yield the highest return on investment. By carefully selecting your projects—whether it’s a kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrade, or smart home integration—you can significantly increase your property value and attract more potential buyers.

If you’re considering renovations in 2025, The Smallbone Team is here to guide you. Our team of real estate experts can help you identify which improvements will offer the best ROI for your home, ensuring your investment pays off in the long run. Whether you're selling or simply want to enjoy a more updated home, we’ve got you covered.