News From Our Office

Jan 15 No Comments

Vote For FSOGB In 2025!

Author: Robert

Categories: News From Our Office,Our Community

Links To Vote For Our Team & Agents!

We would be honoured once again to receive your votes.

Vote For Best Real Estate Office: http://tinyurl.com/FSOGB-Vote-Office
Vote For Best Real Estate Brokerage: http://tinyurl.com/FSOGB-Vote-Brokerage
Vote For Michael Seguin: http://tinyurl.com/FSOGB-Vote-Michael
Vote For Victoria Badger: http://tinyurl.com/FSOGB-Vote-Victoria
Vote For Jessica Radecki: https://tinyurl.com/FSOGB-Vote-Jessica

Every year we are humbled to be nominated by our Community for award consideration. Your belief in us to guide you through some of the biggest transactions of your lives is our fuel.

We are so excited to once again see our very own Michael Seguin become a finalist for “Best Real Estate Broker”, of course, Michael isn’t just a Broker – he’s the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Experience Realty! Last year’s Winner, Victoria Badger is also a finalist again in the “Best Real Estate Agent” Category. Victoria is joined by another previous winner as Jessica Radecki is also a finalist in the “Best Real Estate Agent” Category. Congratulations to Michael, Victoria and Jessica – everyone at For Sale On Georgian Bay is so happy and proud of you!

We are also excited to be nominated as a Team for “Best Real Estate Office” again, an accolade that we have won for 3 years in a row. Also, our brokerage, Keller Williams Experience Brokerage has been nominated again for “Best Real Estate Brokerage”. Thank you once again to our amazing community, clients and supporters for nominating us year over year.

Dec 22 No Comments

Leftovers? Try Our Epic Christmas Toastie!

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Tips And Tricks

What’s the only thing better than Christmas Dinner?… Christmas Dinner Leftovers of course! We asked the team for their favourite leftover recipes and this was the winner. Featuring Turkey, stuffing and homemade bubble squeak, we are ready for leftovers. Try it for yourself and learn our secret toastie hack too.

40 Mins / Serves 2

How to make the perfect toastie

Putting mayonnaise, instead of butter, on the outside of the bread is the greatest toastie hack you’ll ever learn. It gets infinitely more crisp than butter

Ingredients

white bloomer bread 4 slices
mayonnaise 4 tbsp
cranberry sauce 6 tbsp
cooked turkey a few slices
cooked stuffing a few slices
brie 8 slices
coleslaw 4 tbsp

Bubble & Squeak

roast potatoes 6, finely chopped
cooked brussels sprouts 25g, finely chopped
roast parsnips 50g, finely chopped
roast carrots 50g, finely chopped
pigs in blankets 2, finely chopped
vegetable oil 2 tsp

Cooking Steps

STEP 1
Start by making the bubble and squeak. Put the roast potatoes, sprouts, parsnips, carrots and pigs in blankets in a bowl with the pickle and lots of seasoning. Mash with a potato masher until it starts to combine and the mixture holds together when squeezed. Form into two 10cm x 7cm patties. Heat ½ the vegetable oil in a frying pan and fry the patties for 2 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.

STEP 2
Put the bloomer slices onto a large chopping board and spread the outsides with mayonnaise. Spread 1 tbsp of cranberry sauce on the inside of each slice and divide the turkey and stuffing between 2 of the slices. Spoon the remaining cranberry sauce over the top of the bubble and squeak patties, followed by the brie slices. Put onto the sandwiches, followed by the beetroot and coleslaw, and top with the remaining 2 bloomer slices.

STEP 3
Wipe the frying pan clean with kitchen paper and heat the remaining tsp of oil, then wipe with kitchen paper. Fry the sandwiches, weighing them down with a clean pan, for 2-3 minutes on each side or until really golden and crisp. Cut in half and serve.

Let us know your favourite Christmas Dinner leftover recipe!

Nov 03 No Comments

How You Can Still Find Your Georgian Bay Dream Home Amid Today’s Economic Environment

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Our Community,Real Estate News

Are you dreaming of that ideal home or investment nestled in one of our beautiful communities alongside Georgian Bay? We understand that the market can seem like a daunting place and that the decision to buy a property is significant, however the recent move by the Bank of Canada to maintain the policy interest rate at 5% should be music to buyer’s ears! We dive into the current situation and what it means for you, along with a broader look at our community.

Midland, Tiny Township, Tay Township, and Penetanguishene offer an enchanting blend of small-town serenity with modern comforts, making them perfect for those looking to raise a family, retire or even commute to the city. Always popular with our locals and now growing interest from further afield, prices have risen in recent years. However, with the Bank of Canada holding the interest rate, it gives the local market a chance to catch up and we’ve seen a balancing in the market of late.

With the interest rate held steady at 5%, your path to homeownership or investment becomes smoother. Expect consistent and predictable mortgage rates, ensuring affordability on your journey. Whilst economists are predicting that interest rates are to fall during 2024, we strongly recommend that you talk to a mortgage professional that can help you determine your path to home ownership in the most financially beneficial and secure way possible. Stop by 255 King Street to talk with our in house mortgage experts, Mortgage Wellness.

With interest rates stabilising, it’s a comforting time for potential buyers to explore real estate opportunities in our community. There are so many more options for Buyers to entertain – in fact, last month we saw a rise of 6% in new listings and a 13% rise in active listings meaning there really is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a new home, an investment or a vacation property, it’s important that you remain informed and work closely with your local “For Sale On Georgian Bay” real estate expert. We understand your vision and will assist you in making decisions that align with your financial goals, all while gracefully managing the current economic challenges.

Your path to homeownership or investment is now bathed in opportunity. With stable interest rates and a more affordable market due to the 5% median price reduction across our region, now is the time to act. Traditionally, as interest rates drop, home prices go up so take advantage of the lower prices and then enjoy the predicted interest rate decreases in the future. Your real estate dreams are well within your grasp, and at For Sale On Georgian Bay, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Jun 09 No Comments

Butter Tart Festival Survival Guide

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Our Community,Tips And Tricks

We’re just 1 sleep away from the Ontario Butter Tart Festival taking over our beautiful downtown Midland. Whether it’s your first time or you are seasoned festival pro, there’s always so much to take in and experience that it’s easy to get swept up in the occasion. We’ve put together a mini survival guide to help you prepare for the big day.

Arrive Early!
Butter Tarts are the name of the game and if you arrive later in the morning you run the risk of returning home empty handed. The festival officially starts at 9am… but we all know the Butter Tart sales start earlier than that!

Plan Your Parking/Transportation
Parking will be at a premium as Municipal lots will fill up quickly so if you have to park, make sure to arrive very early and double check that you are parked correctly as parking enforcement will be in attendance.

If you can’t walk to the downtown core, check out the Free Shuttle Bus service which runs from 8:45 until 5:30pm. There’s pick up / drop off spots located all over Midland and also in Penetanguishene. Check out the Shuttle Map here.

Stay Refreshed
Make sure to bring refreshments for yourself and the family. It’s going to be a warm day with highs of 24 expected. Make sure to visit your friends at For Sale On Georgian Bay, 255 King Street, to enjoy a complimentary Snow Cone, guaranteed to cool you off!

Dress Appropriately
We recommend dressing in layers, if you arrive early the weather will be a little cooler in the morning but warming up as the day progresses. As you march your way up and down King Street and line up for those precious Butter Tarts, you’re going to also want to make sure that you’re wearing comfortable shoes.

Stay Entertained!
It’s going to be a long day for everyone so make sure you take time to relax and recharge whilst soaking up the sights and sounds of the Dairy Farmers of Entertainment stage. Live entertainment is scheduled from 10am – 5pm.

If you’re looking to put a smile on the faces of the little ones, make sure to visit us at 255 King Street where our very popular professional face painters will be taking requests between 11am – 3:30pm. Face Painting is available for a $5 donation to the Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre.

We can’t wait to see everyone tomorrow as we celebrate our community being in the spotlight!

May 24 No Comments

7 Steps to Prepare Before Purchasing an Investment Property

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Real Estate News,Tips And Tricks

As the cost of living continues to rise, everyone is looking for extra ways to compliment their income. Historically, investing in Real Estate has always been a popular option and that’s no different right now. We’re always being asked “how do I get into the investment market?” so we’ve put together a beginner’s guide to prepare yourself before purchasing an investment property.

Whether you’re looking to generate passive income, build long-term wealth or diversify your portfolio, here’s our 7 tips for success.

Determine Your Investment Goals

Before you start looking for income properties, determine your investment goals. Are you looking for cash flow or long-term appreciation? This will help you determine the type of property and investment strategy that is right for you.

Choose the Right Property

Look for properties that are in high-demand areas and have the potential to generate positive cash flow. Consider factors such as location, condition, rental income potential, and potential for appreciation.

Crunch the Numbers

Calculate the potential return on investment for each property you are considering. This includes factors such as rental income, expenses, financing costs, and potential taxes.

Get Financing

Unless you have enough cash to purchase the property outright, you will need to secure financing. Shop around for the best mortgage rates and terms, and consider alternative financing options such as private lenders.

Hire a Property Manager

Unless you plan to manage the property yourself, consider hiring a property manager to handle day-to-day operations. A good property manager can help ensure that the property is well-maintained, tenants are screened properly, and rent is collected on time.

Screen Tenants Carefully

Screening tenants carefully is essential to maximizing your rental income and minimizing your risk. Conduct thorough background checks, including credit checks and references, to ensure that tenants are reliable and responsible.

Plan for Maintenance and Repairs

Plan for maintenance and repairs as part of your budget. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the road, and keeping the property in good condition can help maximize rental income and property value.

Investing in real estate income properties can be a smart way to generate passive income and build long-term wealth. With careful planning and a strong team of professionals, you can successfully navigate the world of real estate investing and achieve your financial goals.

Good luck in your future endeavours!

May 11 No Comments

April 2023 Market Report For Our Communities

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: Market Report,News From Our Office,Our Community,Real Estate News

Sales activity has begun to stabilize compared to 2022 and now we forward to the next phase of growth and recovery. For the second month in a row, over 200 properties were sold in our community during the month proving that there are plenty of opportunities for both Buyers and Sellers alike. The average sale price is down 4% compared to 2022 however, worth noting that compared to pre pandemic numbers, we’re still seeing a 75% increase.

In our local communities, we saw prices drop across the board. We are still seeing more than 50% increases in Active Listings which is helping the prices continue to even out after the highs of the market in the spring of 2022. In Tiny, despite seeing a decrease, the average home is still lingering around the $1 Million mark. There’s lots of opportunities for everyone so give us a call today!

Trust your local experts to guide you through the process and take advantage of the current market. Ask us about our FREE Home Market Analysis to determine exactly how much your Home is worth in today’s Market.

All data correct as of May 11th, 2023, data gathered by the Ontario Collective based on May 2022 vs May 2023.

Mar 09 No Comments

Selling In The Spring?

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Real Estate News,Tips And Tricks

Are You Planning on Selling This Spring?

We know the winter is not over yet and that the weather man is calling for a long spring, however it is the perfect time to start executing a game plan if you are planning to sell soon. After a long winter, the warm weather and cherry blossoms seem to trigger the moving bug in many people. Here are the three most important tips to get your home ready to sell this spring for top dollar.

Curb Appeal

Curb Appeal is SO important in the spring. Make sure those bushes are freshly trimmed, new mulch and a well-kept lawn will present a positive picture to buyers. Make sure you get rid of dead leaves, branches and any weeds in your yard. First impressions are EVERYTHING.

Spring Cleaning

Clean like you’ve never cleaned before! Your home needs to create a bright ambience for your visitors. Deep clean the windows, remove cobwebs, scrub sliding door/window tracks, ceiling fans, light fixtures, above cabinets/range hoods, baseboards. Anything that doesn’t typically get cleaned in day to day life. You can always refer to online deep cleaning guides if you are unsure of where to start!

De-Clutter

De-clutter your home to the best of your ability. You want your home to feel light and spacious when potential buyers are walking through or viewing it online. Clutter and excess personal items will get in the way of buyers imagining themselves living there. Store personal photos, remove knick-knacks from tables/shelves and remove everything from your counters. It may feel like quite the task but consider it as your first step in packing your home to move into your next home!

What are you doing to prepare your home to sell this spring? If you want to learn more about how we can help you sell your home stress-free during the spring months, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Feb 02 No Comments

January 2023 Market Report For Our Communities

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: Market Report,News From Our Office,Our Community,Real Estate News

New Year, new stats! January saw a big dip in sales activity which skewed a lot of statistics this month. We saw a 23% decrease in sales activity compared to 2022 with just over 100 properties sold across our region. Staying in line with the last 6 months of 2022, active listings continued to surge, across our communities we saw 305% rise in active listings. There’s lots of opportunities for Buyers right now as we’re seeing so many new listings and at the same time, property sales slowed down last month.

In our local communities, we saw sale price decreases in Midland, Penetang and Tay but a large increase in Tiny. However, it’s important to note that there were limited sales to base this information off – Sales Activity was down almost 23% across the region with only 29 sales in our communities. As we head deeper into the new year and look to the spring market, we expect a re-balancing of the market to continue with more opportunities for buyers but also attractive sales prices for sellers.

Trust your local experts to guide you through the process and take advantage of the current market. Ask us about our FREE Home Market Analysis to determine exactly how much your Home is worth in today’s Market.

All data correct as of February 2nd, 2023, data gathered by the Ontario Collective based on January 2022 vs January 2023.

Jan 31 No Comments

Winter Renovations?

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office,Real Estate News,Tips And Tricks

Completing Renovations During the Winter Months?

The slower winter months are the ideal time to complete renovations for some homeowners, the cold months mean there is less to do outside of the home and more people focus on fixes within. We have compiled a list to help you stay within your budget during your winter renovations.

1. Figure Out Your Main Priorities

Take your time and slowly save up if you haven’t already, it is beneficial to pay in cash so that you can avoid incurring more debt. By making a checklist of what must be done rather than what you would like to be done, you will be able to make improvements without borrowing excess money. It will make you feel good without adding more debt and having an improved living space.

2. Take a Close Look at Your Utilities

Rather than simply swapping your name onto the property’s current utility bill, be sure to shop around for a better deal. If you are able to find another utility company that can provide the same service for less money, you will have more in the long run to spend on the changes that you want made. Other than utilities, you may also be able to get a better deal on your internet, cable/satellite, or insurance provider.

3. Be Accountable

Tracking your spending and making a budget to see where your money is going is highly advised. Quite commonly, people may be spending more money monthly on things such as takeout than they realize. Create a budget and plan ahead. You may consider making a spreadsheet and planning a year ahead. You will feel great when the year is done and you have held yourself accountable.

4. When Thinking About Purchasing New

Think about what is best for you when it comes to new appliances, furniture and other large ticket items. Search online marketplaces where there are always options to buy and sell. You may have inherited a stove that you can sell, to help you afford the new one that you have been looking forward to. Or you may even be able to find the one you have been dreaming of at a discounted price. You can also check with friends, family and neighbours to see if they are getting rid of any things that you may need. There is no shame in repurposing someone else’s kitchen cabinets or using someone’s leftover construction materials. You have the opportunity to save yourself some big bucks if you are open to doing some research.

5. Remember The Important Improvements

In addition to setting aside money for your upgrades, make sure to budget for when things go wrong. The average homeowner will experience needing a new roof, furnace or maybe upgrading from your gravel driveway. Some professionals suggest setting aside 2% of your home’s value for maintenance every year.

What winter renovations are you doing this year? Do you have any tips of your own?

Nov 08 No Comments

An Update From Georgie

Author: FSOGB Admin

Categories: News From Our Office

Back in the Summer, the Midland and District OSPCA gave us the chance to name an animal in their care and we picked the name “Georgie”, a nod towards Georgian Bay and a symbol of what connects all of our communities.

We couldn’t be more proud to learn that our name was given to this brave, strong little guy with a story of resilience that inspires us all. After facing multiple surgeries, an amputation and a difficult start to life, Georgie was adopted and was given a fresh start at having an amazing life!

The OSPCA recently sat down with Georgie’s Mom to discuss what it means to adopt a cat like Georgie, his bond with other pets and his rambunctious personality!

• What was it about Georgie that made you want to adopt him?
Georgie was brought into my friends work, tiny and injured. I had been hoping to adopt a cat for a while – originally intending on adopting an older cat but when my friend sent a picture of him, so small and fuzzy but so hurt, my heart just melted and I wanted to keep him safe. You could tell how sweet he was because even though he must have been in so much pain, he was still gently licking her coworkers hand.

• How is Georgie doing now, after his leg amputation?
Georgie is doing really, really well. He has lots of energy, absolutely loves toys (or anything he can get his paws on), people-watching from our front window and cuddling with his 90lb bernese mountain dog sister, Bellatrix. He is incredibly fast when he gets the zoomies and loves to climb on whatever he can. I’m not sure he even remembers his other leg – and not having it certainly doesn’t keep him out of trouble.

• Can you describe Georgie’s personality?
Georgie is rambunctious, adorable, hilarious and an absolute sweetheart. He makes me laugh out loud several times a day just from being so silly. And when he runs out of energy, his cuddles are the best. You can find him nestled up to me or Bella in a tiny little ball or sprawled out completely. There’s often no in-between

• What is it like to have Georgie in your home and part of your family?
Having Georgie here just feels like home. I’ve always loved cats and they were always part of the family so it feels right. He adds liveliness, humor and happiness and I’m so grateful for the little guy. He’s almost always at the front door to say hello when I return and always says goodbye on my way out. And his relationship with my 2 year old dog has been so heartwarming to watch – and hilarious. Cats really do seem to rule the house.

• Why do you think it’s important for the community to help animals in need, like Georgie?
Helping those who are vulnerable, frightened or hurt is always the right thing to do. It’s no different with animals. They have feelings, experience pain and provide the world with so much love and warmth. They deserve our love and warmth in return.

I’m so grateful for the woman who found him, those who transported him to the Midland SPCA, those who donated to the SPCA to help cover his extensive medical costs, those who cared for him and made sure he’d make a great recovery and of course my friend for sending me his picture. I’ve only had him for few months but I couldn’t imagine life without him now.

Links To Vote For Our Team & Agents!

Every year we are humbled to be nominated by our Community for award consideration. Your belief in us to guide you through some of the biggest transactions of your lives is our fuel.

40 Mins / Serves 2

How to make the perfect toastie

Ingredients

Bubble & Squeak

Cooking Steps

We can’t wait to see everyone tomorrow as we celebrate our community being in the spotlight!

Whether you’re looking to generate passive income, build long-term wealth or diversify your portfolio, here’s our 7 tips for success.

Determine Your Investment Goals

Choose the Right Property

Crunch the Numbers

Get Financing

Hire a Property Manager

Screen Tenants Carefully

Plan for Maintenance and Repairs

Good luck in your future endeavours!

Are You Planning on Selling This Spring?

Curb Appeal

Spring Cleaning

De-Clutter

Completing Renovations During the Winter Months?

The slower winter months are the ideal time to complete renovations for some homeowners, the cold months mean there is less to do outside of the home and more people focus on fixes within. We have compiled a list to help you stay within your budget during your winter renovations.

1. Figure Out Your Main Priorities

2. Take a Close Look at Your Utilities

3. Be Accountable

4. When Thinking About Purchasing New

5. Remember The Important Improvements

Back in the Summer, the Midland and District OSPCA gave us the chance to name an animal in their care and we picked the name “Georgie”, a nod towards Georgian Bay and a symbol of what connects all of our communities.

We couldn’t be more proud to learn that our name was given to this brave, strong little guy with a story of resilience that inspires us all. After facing multiple surgeries, an amputation and a difficult start to life, Georgie was adopted and was given a fresh start at having an amazing life!

The OSPCA recently sat down with Georgie’s Mom to discuss what it means to adopt a cat like Georgie, his bond with other pets and his rambunctious personality!

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