Real estate scams are targeting more victims than ever before, and they're becoming increasingly sophisticated. Canadians reported losing $638 million to fraud in 2024, with authorities warning that only 5–10% of incidents are reported at all¹. Even more concerning, Canadian lawyers, title insurers and regulators have flagged a rise in identity-based title and mortgage fraud during real estate closings, where large deposits and tight timelines create opportunities for criminals².

These aren't isolated incidents targeting the naïve or unprepared—they're professional operations that can fool experienced investors and savvy consumers alike. Scammers have adapted to modern technology and remote transactions, making their schemes harder to detect and more financially devastating than ever.

The shift to digital communications and remote closings has created new vulnerabilities that criminals actively exploit. Whether you're a first-time home buyer, seasoned investor, property owner, or renter, understanding these threats and knowing how to protect yourself is essential. From wire-transfer hijacking to fake listings, title theft, and impostor agents, real estate scams come in many forms. Here's how to recognise and protect yourself from the most common threats.

Wire Transfer Fraud: The Costliest Threat

Wire fraud strikes at closing when buyers are most vulnerable. Criminals hack or spoof emails from real estate professionals or law firms, then send fake wiring instructions directing your down payment to their accounts. The setup appears completely legitimate—the email looks official, uses proper terminology, and creates urgency around closing deadlines.

In Canada, deposits are typically handled through lawyers'/notaries' trust accounts, but that doesn't eliminate risk. CREA and Canadian practitioners warn that wire transfers are designed to be irreversible, and once funds leave your account, recovery is unlikely³. For many Canadian homebuyers, typical losses can reach six figures,...

Real estate remains among Canada’s top choices for building long-term wealth. A recent survey found that 87% of Canadians feel more confident investing in real estate than in publicly traded stocks. This isn't just sentiment; 76% of the Canadian real estate investors surveyed own properties beyond their primary residence.1

The truth is, real estate offers unique advantages that traditional investments can't match. A rental property provides multiple income streams, delivering monthly rent payments while simultaneously building equity and appreciating in value. Plus, leverage amplifies returns: Even if you put down 20%, you’ll benefit from 100% of the property's appreciation gains. Tax deductions on rental expenses can further boost profitability.3

When executed wisely, rental properties can deliver steady cash flow today and significant wealth tomorrow. But success starts with preparation—knowing how rentals make money, who is best suited to invest, what to look for, and where to start.

How Rental Properties Build Wealth

Great rental properties create wealth through three primary channels that work together to compound returns over time:

●      Cash Flow represents net monthly income after expenses. The formula: Total rent minus all expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, management fees, etc.). A duplex renting for $3,300 monthly with $2,700 in expenses generates $600 monthly positive cash flow—money for profit or reinvestment.

●      Appreciation refers to property value increases over time. According to Canadian MoneySaver, nationally, the housing market has averaged 6% yearly appreciation since 1975.4 A 6% annual appreciation on a $400,000 house adds $24,000+ to your equity annually from market gains alone.

●      Equity growth also occurs as mortgage payments reduce loan principal. Ideally, tenant rent effectively covers these payments, so tenants are purchasing the property for you i...

As a homeowner, you’re likely diligent about the basics—mowing the lawn, touching up paint, and cleaning regularly. But what about the critical home maintenance tasks you don’t see every day?

Research shows that home maintenance frequently takes a backseat, even with the best intentions. In fact, a recent survey found that 60% of homeowners have postponed necessary maintenance or repairs, while 40% admit to paying for a major home repair that could have been avoided with better upkeep.1 

Still, it’s not just about avoiding costly emergencies—it’s also about maximizing the return on your biggest investment. According to research by Thumbtack, homeowners who do put in the extra care are rewarded: Well-maintained homes sell for an average of 10% more.2

Let’s explore 10 often overlooked home maintenance tasks and how they can save you thousands in long-term costs.

1. Gutter Cleaning: Your First Line of Protection

Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, attic, or siding. Left unchecked, this can lead to foundation damage, rot, and even flooding.

The real cost of neglect: While professional gutter cleaning averages $212, it’s far less than the potential repair bills.3 The average cost to repair a flooded basement, for example, is a whopping $43,000 according to the Government of Canada.4

Your action plan:

●      Clean gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall.

●      Use a gutter scoop or hose to remove debris.

●      Consider investing in gutter guards to reduce future clogs.

This small task prevents major structural damage and prolongs the life of your home’s exterior.

2. HVAC Filter Replacement: Small Task, Major Impact

A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, causes your system to work harder, and increases energy use. It can also lead to health concerns from trapped contaminants circulating in your home’s air.

The hidden costs: Natural Resources Canada confirms...

July 1st isn’t just Canada Day—it also serves as a pivotal checkpoint for assessing how 2025 has unfolded so far and what might be coming in the months ahead.

Canada’s real estate market remains shaped by economic uncertainty, fluctuating interest rates, and global trade tensions. However, a recent rise in existing home sales suggests a more positive shift may be underway.1

Whether you’re considering buying a home, selling, or simply evaluating your next steps, understanding today’s market is essential. In this comprehensive market update, we examine four key factors influencing today's housing market and provide actionable strategies for navigating these evolving conditions.

MARKET REMAINS SUBDUED, BUT THERE ARE EARLY SIGNS OF RECOVERY

After declining in the first part of the year—primarily due to market uncertainty and an ongoing trade dispute with the U.S.—Canadian home sales rose 3.6% between April and May, marking the first monthly gain in national activity since November 2024, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).2,3 This subtle but significant uptick was largely driven by increased sales in Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa.3

“May 2025 not only saw home sales move higher at the national level for the first time in more than six months, but prices at the national level also stopped falling,” said CREA Senior Economist Shaun Cathcart. “It’s only one month of data … but there is a sense that maybe the expected turnaround in housing activity this year was just delayed for a few months by the initial tariff chaos and uncertainty.”3

What it means for you:  While it's too early to declare a full rebound, this shift could signal renewed momentum heading into the summer and fall. Buyers may want to act before prices begin to climb again, while sellers should be prepared for a potentially more competitive market in the months ahead. I can help you assess the right time to make a move.

FIXED MORTGAGE RATES OFFER SOME STABILITY

Heading into the second half of 2025,...

Navigating the real estate market without guidance is like starting an expedition without a map. Whether you're selling your cherished family home or searching for your dream property, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference.

According to a 2024 report from the U.S.-based National Association of Realtors, agent-represented homes sold for nearly 14.5% more than those sold by owners alone.1

But home sellers aren’t the only ones who can benefit. A study by the Consumer Federation of America found that homebuyers can save significantly by working with an agent dedicated to their interests.2

While it’s easy to see the advantages of working with a real estate professional, it can be challenging to find the right representative whose expertise, service, and terms align with your specific needs. This comprehensive guide presents five factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent who can deliver results while streamlining the process.

1. Credentials & Reputation

A well-qualified agent brings more than just enthusiasm; they bring training, experience, and a proven track record.

First, ensure your agent holds a valid licence through your provincial real estate council or board. Canadian real estate agents must complete provincially mandated education, pass licensing exams, and adhere to strict ethical standards, especially if they are members of the Canadian Real Estate Association or a local real estate board.3

Next, inquire about the agent’s continuing education. Real estate designations and certifications indicate additional training and a commitment to excellence in specific areas of real estate.

When it comes to reputation, don’t hesitate to ask for references and check online reviews. Past clients can provide insight into the agent’s communication style, negotiation skills, and ability to manage complex transactions. Prioritize any feedback you receive from trusted family and friends.

Additionally, take time to visit the agent’s website...

Thinking about listing your home in 2025? If so, you're smart to start planning ahead. With housing inventory rising in many market segments, today’s sellers need more than just a “for sale” sign to stand out.1

The good news? You can still make a strong impression and command top dollar—if you know what today’s buyers are really looking for.

I’ve outlined five of the top homebuyer priorities in 2025, along with a clear action plan to help you position your property for success. Whether you're weeks or months away from listing, these insights will help you attract serious offers and maximize your return. 

BUYER PRIORITY #1: Move-In-Ready Condition

Buyers want homes that are ready to enjoy from day one. A recent survey found that 64% of Canadians would prefer to buy a renovated property.2 Homes that feel fresh and well-maintained are far more likely to attract competitive offers.

Seller Action Plan:
●      Refresh your interior.
This might include painting rooms in neutral, contemporary colours and swapping outdated fixtures for more modern alternatives. We may also recommend that you take down heavy drapery or dated blinds to brighten your space and clean or replace flooring to create a clean and cohesive look.
●      Fix anything that’s broken.
If something isn’t working quite right, repair it now. Provide maintenance records, if you have them, and consider a pre-listing inspection to identify potential issues early—helping avoid delays or negotiations later.3We can advise you on the best course of action given your circumstances and your home’s condition.
●      Strategically enhance your kitchen.
A modern kitchen is a major selling point for many buyers. According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, buyers rank a kitchen island and hardwood/wood-look kitchen flooring among their top 10 most-desired features.4 We can help you decide if an investment in your kitchen is worthwhile.

I can help you...

When it comes to maintaining or increasing your home's value, you probably think of major renovations, curb appeal, and market trends. However, some lesser-known factors can quietly decrease your property's worth. Whether you're planning to sell soon or simply want to protect your investment, here are five surprising things that can lower your home's value.

1. Excessive Personalization
Your home should reflect your personality, but overly customized features can make it harder to sell. Bold paint colours, built-in entertainment center’s, and unique room conversions (like turning a garage into a home gym) may not appeal to the average buyer.

How to Avoid This
● Stick to neutral colour palettes for walls and flooring.
● Opt for removable or easily reversible customizations.
● If you’ve made major modifications, consider offering to revert them before listing your home.

2. Poorly Maintained Landscaping
Curb appeal plays a crucial role in a home's value, and a neglected yard can be a major red flag for potential buyers. Overgrown lawns, dead plants, or an unkempt exterior can suggest deeper maintenance issues inside the house.

How to Improve Your Yard
● Regularly mow the lawn and trim hedges.
● Remove dead plants and weeds to keep the landscape neat.
● Invest in low-maintenance plants to keep the yard attractive with minimal effort.

3. Unpleasant Odours
Lingering smells from pets, smoke, or even strong cooking odors can deter buyers and lower your home’s value. Smells can seep into carpets, walls, and furniture, making them difficult to remove.

How to Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh
● Deep clean carpets, drapes, and upholstery regularly.
● Use air purifiers to eliminate persistent odors.
● Open windows frequently to improve ventilation.
● Avoid smoking indoors and keep pet areas clean.

4. Outdated or Poorly Done DIY Renovations
While DIY projects can save money, poor craftsmanship can be a turn-off for buyers. Improperlyinstalled flooring, uneven...

The chill in Canada's housing market could be thawing sooner than expected.

Interest rates are dropping.1 Pent-up demand is building.2 Sales are starting to heat up.3 And a potentially electrifying set of mortgage rules just went into effect, making it easier than it 's been in years for first-time buyers with smaller down payments to qualify for a higher priced home.4

As a result, some experts now project that competition for new homes could start tightening sooner than anticipated.5 "It's game on for home buyers," wrote NerdWallet's mortgage and real estate expert Clay Jarvis after the Bank of Canada announced its latest jumbo rate cut in December. "The combined impact of lower rates and less-stringent lending guidelines could be a game-changer –– for some buyers, anyway."4

Even the Bank of Canada acknowledged last month that a confluence of factors that are now widely expected to come together in 2025 could help to rekindle Canada's long frozen housing market. "There are some mortgage rule changes to come," noted Bank of Canada senior deputy governor Carolyn Rogers at a December press conference. Plus, "another 50-basis-point cut. We know housing is very sensitive to interest rates, so we do expect more pickup."6

What does this mean for you? Read on for our take on what to expect for 2025.  

MORTGAGE RATES WILL BOTTOM OUT

With the Bank of Canada's policy rate now at its lowest point since 2022, both fixed and variable rate mortgages are more affordable than they have been in years.7

Mortgage rates could slide further still. The Bank of Canada is still widely expected to cut its key rate by another percentage point or more this year, which will push the prime rate below 5%.8

But don't expect fixed mortgage rates to fall too much more in the coming months, if they drop at all. In fact, BMO Senior Economist Robert Kavcic thinks fixed rates may have already hit bottom. That's because today's rates not only reflect previous rate cuts. They're also influenced by anticipated...

Tech the Halls: Smart Home Gadgets for a Stress-Free Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for joy, family, and celebration, but they also bring added responsibilities. Between decorating, hosting, and just keeping up with your daily routines, your home can quickly start to feel more like a neverending to-do list rather than your haven.

That’s where smart home technology comes in. It can help you streamline holiday tasks to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones and enjoying the season's magic.

And there are more upsides to upgrading your home tech: doing so can also enhance the overall value and appeal of your property. Current research suggests that buyers are more likely to make an offer — and a higher one at that —- on a home that already has smart home features installed.1

So whether you're thinking about selling in the near future or just want to enjoy your home to the fullest this season, adding smart gadgets is an investment that pays off. Read on for some of the best smart home solutions to simplify your holidays (and just maybe make your home more marketable down the road, too).

ENTERTAINING MADE EASY

Spending time with friends and family is the highlight of the holiday season — but entertaining can be a lot of work. These tools can help turn any gathering into a celebration to remember without all of the fuss.

1. Make cooking easier with digital recipe access

Holiday cooking often means late nights and multiple trips to the store. Instead of juggling old recipe cards, let smart-home displays keep you organized with easy menu planning and grocery lists.

High-end: Google Nest Hub Max
Among its many capabilities, this smart display offers an easy-to-use recipe mode with step-by-step guidance from the Google Assistant. Imagine having a sous chef right on your countertop!

Mid-range: LG - 27" Smart Monitor
Looking for a nice big screen to watch cooking shows or YouTube videos or to pull up your favorite recipe? This smart TV can be perched on your kitchen counter...

For many homebuyers, multigenerational living used to be considered an option of last resort: it was a route families took only when they needed to ride out a financial storm or care for ailing family members. But that mindset is on the decline: A growing number of families now say that they are embracing multigenerational living and moving in together by choice.

In fact, the share of homes occupied by three or more generations or by cohabiting households has jumped 45% in the last 20 years, according to Statistics Canada. By the time the 2021 census was recorded, over half a million kids lived with both parents and grandparents.1

Living with extended family has become especially popular in recent years as younger generations face higher home costs and seniors embrace aging in place. With average home prices continuing to outpace median incomes in Canada, first-time home buyers have become more open-minded about co-buying a home with friends or family.2

Indigenous and immigrant families are especially likely to embrace multigenerational living—often for cultural reasons.3 With multigenerational homes more common in other parts of the world, newcomers from those regions often prefer living with extended family, says Dr. Shimi Kang, a psychiatrist and parenting expert. "As Canada, in particular, is getting more multicultural, we see [multigenerational homes] are becoming a norm, not just for financial reasons."4

For many families, the benefits are substantial, said Kang to HuffPost Canada. "Pooling finances, pooling childcare, pooling household responsibilities, having a support system built-in."4 Plus, research shows that people who live in multigenerational homes are healthier and tend to live longer. They also enjoy more financial security.5

That's not to say that multigenerational living is easy: It can also be stressful—especially if you choose a home that isn't suited for a larger family. The key to making it work is to pick a home that can accommodate young and old alike...