In the first three months of this year in Oakville and Burlington, more than 3,000 people listed their homes. But the number of homes sold declined by about 40% compared to the first quarter of last year. As the number of new listings continues to exceed the number of sales, inventory is rising. Average selling prices, meanwhile, are flat or declining slightly (see the summary statistics on page 34).

Why these market changes? The reasons are mostly national or global. Current influences on real estate include higher interest rates compared to five years ago, economic uncertainty, tariff anxiety and the affordability issue, not to mention that buyers are more cautious than they were in the over-heated COVID-19 housing market.

This year started fairly smoothly until geopolitics (and the weather!) suddenly caused hesitation among buyers. “We quickly ran into uncertainty with a call for both a federal and provincial election, as well as well- documented issues in the U.S., including new tariffs,” says Duncan Harvey, Branch Partner & Broker at Every Avenue Real Estate in Oakville. “On top of that, we experienced more snow than we’ve seen in several years.”

All of these factors caused home sales to slow down. With more homes to choose from and less pressure to decide fast, buyers are taking their time and making sure not to overpay. “That said, as we move into better weather and with elections behind us, the only major uncertainty that remains is with the U.S.,” Harvey says. He expects sales volume to increase over the remainder of 2025.

If you’re considering selling your home this year or already have it on the market, we’ve got your back! Read on for some great tips and advice from local experts on how to achieve a successful sale.

Price It Right

“Market shifts can happen virtually overnight, and pricing strategy is crucial in ensuring sellers get the most money possible,” says Greg Kuchma, a Broker with RE/MAX Escarpment Realty in Burlington. Kuchma explains that pricing very much depends on some obvious factors, such as competitive listings and recent sales in your area, but sellers must also consider things like the uniqueness of a property, and what timeframe they’re comfortable having the property listed for.

“People are approaching the process with caution – and rightfully so,” Kuchma says. “Properties at all price points are selling, and buyers are more likely to include conditions and negotiate.”

Harvey stresses that in today’s market, buyers want to feel like they’re getting a deal. “Pricing sharply has never been more important,” he says. “When sellers price their homes competitively, it gives buyers the confidence to make an offer right away, instead of sitting back and waiting for a price reduction.”

Set the Stage

Sellers need to show off their home’s best attributes – because there’s only one first impression. A real estate agent will advise on lighting, paint, landscaping, cleaning, handyman touch-ups, small staging and decorating changes (yes, prospective buyers notice these details).

Rather than go it alone, “Engage a real estate professional early on!” Kuchma says. “There are so many moving parts, and things to be aware of.” Although you know your home best, your agent offers valuable and objective insights on how to get it “show ready.”

According to Andrea Fefekos, Owner of Shelf Care Organizing in Milton, a home that’s on the market “needs to shine like a new pin from top to bottom, inside and out.” That might sound like a big ask if you’ve lived in the same house for many years. Inevitably junk collects in the basement, closets, and garage. Kitchens show their age. Walls thirst for a lick of paint. “But don’t despair,” Fefekos says. “There are plenty of people who can help you with the work required to show your home in the best possible light.”

As part of her company’s decluttering services, Fefekos’ team can help sellers decide what to keep or donate, arrange for same-day donation removal, and organize kept items to minimize visual clutter. It’s not just about tidying up. It’s about showcasing a home’s best features with minimal distractions. As a seller, you want potential buyers to picture themselves in the space – and they can’t do that if they’re focusing on your belongings.

Renovate…Only where necessary

Sometimes a home needs more than a cleaning and decluttering to appeal to a buyer. In some cases, for a home to fetch a good price, a realtor might suggest investing in renovations. It can result in a quicker sale, at a price that both the buyer and the seller are happy with.

Keep in mind, though, that the goal is to get back far more than you spend. This is probably not the time to undertake major work such as a new kitchen or bathroom.

“Prior to a sale, focus on the visual presentation of the home,” says Peter Glaw, Owner of Premier Quality Renovations. “Touch up the hardwoods, fix scuffs in the drywall, check the caulking and the grouting in the bathrooms and kitchens, and paint wherever necessary.”

Glaw has 41 years of experience in every type of reno, from superficial to a complete rebuild. He can either have his tradespeople do the work and manage the job, or take on a consulting role and teach you how to be your own general contractor. He has even written a book about it – How to Be Your Own General Contractor: Everything You Need to Know to Take Control and Save Thousands on Your Renovation or New Construction.

Harvey recommends starting with the surface changes and then reassessing. “The best return on investment typically comes from fresh paint and making sure the home is extremely clean,” he says. “From there, sellers should work with their agent to decide if additional investments — such as minor updates or repairs — could further improve the home’s value and marketability.”

Dot every ‘i” with a real estate lawyer

Once a successful offer to purchase is concluded, there is one final (often under-appreciated) step in the process: working with a professional real estate lawyer to ensure closing day happens without a hitch. This step is critical whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or a seller expecting to close a deal.

Owen Duguid, Partner at O’Connor MacLeod Hanna LLP in Oakville, explains how it works. “When most people think about buying or selling a home, they picture open houses, mortgage meetings, and real estate agents,” he says. “But behind the scenes, there’s a quiet powerhouse making sure everything runs smoothly – and legally. That’s where the real estate lawyer comes in.”

The lawyer’s job is to spot red flags and issues early before they become costly problems. They can also translate legal jargon into plain English, and make sure you are in a position to complete the transaction on closing day. Whether it’s reviewing contracts, dealing with title issues, negotiating terms, or resolving disputes, real estate lawyers ensure that both the buyer’s and the seller’s rights are protected.

Think of real estate lawyers as the safeguard in a high-stakes game,” Duguid says, “because when it comes to real property, one misstep can cost more than just peace of mind.”

You’ve got this

Markets will forever fluctuate. World events will always cause supply and demand to ebb and flow. If you plan to sell your home in the coming months, know that it’s in your best interest to make sure that all elements are in place for an attractive listing. Once your home has the right price and the right look, and once your valuable asset is in good physical and legal shape, you’re primed for a mutually rewarding transaction.

If you are thinking of selling your home this year, here are some local companies who would love to help you prepare for the move.

Clutter Relief Services, Hamilton
clutterreliefservices.com

Daphne Freill, Oakville
daphnefreill.com

Downsizing Diva, Burlington
downsizingdiva.com

Every Avenue Real Estate, Oakville
everyavenue.ca

Halton Handyman, Burlington
haltonhandyman.ca

Invidiata Team, Oakville
invidiata.com

Jason Woods, Mortgage Broker
jason-woods.com

Kleen Rite Carpet & Duct Cleaning, Burlington
kleenrite.ca

The Kuchma Team, Burlington
thekuchmateam.ca

O’Connor MacLeod Hanna, Oakville
omh.ca

Premier Quality Renovations, Etobicoke
premier-renovations.com

Shelf Care Organizing, Milton
shelfcareorganizing.com

Ultra Stor, Burlington
ultrastor.ca

By Tim Root and Michelle Morra

Pool planning is always in season. Whether you’re dreaming of the serenity that comes with a refreshing morning dip or a lively spot for weekend entertaining, the right pool can completely transform your outdoor living space. From layout and landscaping to features and finishes, here’s what to consider when turning your project ideas into a reality.

With the arrival of consistently good weather, it’s tempting to think you can have a pool installed and be swimming by summer’s end. While that might still be possible depending on the scope of your project, careful planning is the key to achieving a high-quality result that will last for years.

“The best way to get started is to book an expert consultation to discuss your ideas and project in detail,” says Andrew Majury of Let’s Landscape (Together). Terence O’Brien of Shoreline Pools and Landscapes agrees: “If you build a backyard similar to how you build a house and take your time, you’ll have the best experience. All the planning and design work is what makes a project run smoothly.”

Dive in

Custom pool designs offer the freedom to incorporate luxurious, resort- inspired features that elevate your entire backyard. “Integrated spas, sun benches, and full-width staircases are trending,” says Ian McClelland of McClelland Landscape Design. “The shallow end is often the go-to hangout spot, so expanding the stairs into a larger lounging area creates a more social atmosphere. Hot tubs with therapeutic jets and spillover spas are also in high demand.”

Materials and shapes are evolving, too. “We’re seeing increased interest in outdoor-rated porcelain tile and natural stone,” O’Brien says. “I’m also trying to bring back curvy pools. Most of the industry leans toward modern, rectangular styles, but freeform shapes help define outdoor areas – like dining areas, fire tables, and conversation sets.”

Backyard blueprint

Beyond the trending features everyone wants, there are a few practical must-haves that every well-designed pool should include. “A control panel system allows you to simply manage, monitor, and adjust all pool functions remotely from an app,” says Majury. “A variable speed pump will save on operating costs and is more energy-efficient compared to single-speed pumps, making it a smart investment for long-term savings.”

Striking the right balance between water features, hardscape (like patios and stonework), and softscape (like garden beds and greenery) is equally essential. “You don’t want one element to overpower the others,” explains McClelland. “You want to create a sense of comfort and relaxation.”

O’Brien encourages homeowners to invest in a full backyard design. “When you’re working with the kinds of budgets these projects require, it’s crucial to have someone you trust who understands your vision,” he says. “We take elevation shots and plan every inch so when you receive a quote, there are no surprises.”

As for the cost of creating a private paradise? Expect to spend $80,000 to $100,000 on a custom pool with high-end features plus the cost of landscaping. But a total teardown isn’t always necessary. “For customers with existing pools, it’s amazing how a renovation can completely transform your yard,” Majury says.

Top 5 Pool Accessories for Summer Fun

1. LOUNGE CHAIRS Create resort-style comfort with loungers for the sun deck or floating chairs for lazy afternoons in the pool.
2. INFLATABLES Flamingos, unicorns, and even floating cabanas add a playful touch while keeping you cool.
3. LED LIGHTS Colour-changing lights bring ambiance to evening swims and backyard parties.
4. BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS Keep the tunes going with waterproof speakers that can handle splashes or float alongside you.
5. POOL GAMES From hoops and volleyball to dive rings and floating poker, pool games make a splash with all ages.

Local Links

Let’s Landscape (Together)
Burlington
letslandscape.ca

McClelland
Landscape Design
Oakville
mcclellandlandscapedesign.com

Shoreline Pools and
Landscapes
Oakville
shorelinepl.ca

By Nilcole Hilton

When my daughter was a toddler, she had a habit of waking at 5:45 a.m. To avoid disrupting the rest of the house, she and I would head to our back porch to play. The chirping of birds was our soundtrack. 

After I finally decided to buy a bird feeder, suddenly our mornings brought sightings of goldfinches, chickadees, and cardinals that flocked to our yard. We learned their names and distinctive calls, and I began to actually enjoy waking up at dawn just to see which feathered friends would visit us.

I know I’m not alone in my love of backyard birding. The hobby is rapidly growing in North America. “(It’s) one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to connect with nature,” says Paul Oliver, Founder of Urban Nature Store. Watching and listening to birds can be incredibly calming, and for many enthusiasts, attracting more birds becomes an obsession. “The beauty of the birds, along with their songs, has a naturally relaxing effect,” adds David Wood, Store Manager at Wild Birds Unlimited in Burlington. 

If you’ve ever wanted to attract birds to your yard, here’s how to get started. 

Choose the Right Feeder

Walk into a specialty bird store like Wild Birds Unlimited in Burlington or Urban Nature in Ancaster, and you’ll find an overwhelming variety of feeders. Where to start? Oliver suggests a tube feeder. “It’s easy to use, attracts a wide variety of birds like finches, chickadees, and cardinals, and helps keep seed fresh and dry,” he says. If squirrels are a concern, squirrel-proof feeders can help ensure more seed goes to the birds rather than to pesky backyard thieves.

Placement is key when setting up your feeder. Wood recommends a pole system. “You can position it wherever you want in your yard,” he explains. To prevent squirrels from eating from feeders, place them 10 to 12 feet away from anything a squirrel could jump from, like a fence or tree. Birds also need to feel safe, so placing feeders near shrubs gives them natural cover to escape to. Keep the feeder about five to six feet off the ground to protect birds from predators. And don’t forget about convenience — make sure your feeder is easy to access for refilling and cleaning, as clean feeders help keep birds healthy. 

Select the Best Seed

Not all bird seed is created equal, and choosing the right one truly matters. “The quality of bird seed makes a huge difference in what birds you attract and how much waste you end up with,” Oliver explains. Many big-box store seed blends contain fillers like milo and wheat, which birds simply discard. Specialty stores like Urban Nature and Wild Birds Unlimited carry high-quality, fresh seed blends designed to attract the birds you want to see while reducing waste.

Wood recommends starting with sunflower hearts, a no-mess seed that attracts a variety of birds. “Over time, you can expand your offerings with suet for woodpeckers or nectar for hummingbirds,” says Oliver. A pole system allows you to easily add more feeders and specialized seed to attract different species.

Creating a bird-friendly backyard is a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature. With the right feeder, high-quality seed, and a few thoughtful additions to your yard, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying the sights and sounds of several beautiful local species.