Newsletter            June 2025

Summer is just around the corner, and if you’ve been counting the days since the first leaf fell last fall, you’re likely excited to begin planning for all the fun seasonal things you can do. If you’re a homebody or aren’t planning on making any great escapes, it might feel like your summer will end up low-key, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  

For example, you can turn your backyard into a spot to be by putting in a backyard kitchen so you can enjoy the outdoors, even when it’s time to do chores. You may also be thinking about putting in a pool, which can be a significant upgrade, but there are some things you need to consider beforehand so that it becomes more of an oasis and less of a headache.

The summer is also a great time to start putting effort into other changes, such as adding eco-friendly upgrades to your home to reduce your carbon footprint, or cleaning and organizing your garage so when you need to find that tennis racket or ball hockey stick, it’ll be exactly where you left it.

Garage Upgrades to Have an Organized Summer  

Your garage doesn’t have to house only your car. It can be an excellent space for storing all your summer activity toys, such as canoes, tennis rackets, hockey sticks, bicycles, and more. But if the area is a mess, getting to these items will be more than annoying. To ensure that your summer and all the fun things you plan to do go off without a hitch, you’ll want to get things upgraded and organized in June.

Split Up into Zones

Your garage storage solutions can be split up into categories. That way, you can maximize space by being organized. For example, tools can be stored in one area, whereas outdoor toys can be put in another. It’s all about creating a flow that allows you to easily access what you need when you need it by giving everything its own dedicated spot.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Slat Wall

A slat wall is an excellent option if you want to utilize horizontal space, especially if your garage is small. With the right hanging organizers, it can hold large and even heavy-duty items, and everything will be off the floor, out of the way, but still within reach. You can also add or remove shelves and hooks as needed, so the entire layout will be completely customized to suit your needs.

Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Aside from using a slat wall, other storage solutions are right at home in a garage. A pegboard can be used to keep tools and equipment above a workbench, hanging nets will keep footballs, volleyballs, or basketballs you have put away, and overhead storage racks can be great for bicycles. It’s about taking inventory of what you have and choosing the best storage solution.

Getting your garage organized can feel like a chore, but once it’s done, it’ll save you the many headaches you’d develop looking for your stuff while you’re getting ready to go and do something you enjoy in the summer heat.

Building a Backyard Kitchen on a Budget  

Cooking meals during the summer can feel like an even bigger chore because you want to be outside in the heat, not working over a hot stove. So, if you want to take your culinary skills outdoors without spending a lot, you’ll have to be savvy about it.

Focus on the Right Appliances

Your backyard kitchen doesn’t need every high-end appliance. Instead, focus on a couple of basics that get the job done, such as a gas grill and stovetop. You may also want to try out prefabricated modular units with everything you need. They’re easier to install than custom-made and inexpensive.

Try to DIY

If you’re handy enough and have the confidence to build it out yourself, you’ll save on labour costs. You can build the framework, install shelves, or get everything set and ready for gas lines, electrical, and plumbing, so that when the professionals come in, they will only require payment for the tasks you can’t do yourself.

Start Small

If you want to save money now, you can build the kitchen in phases. You can do the basics first, and as you work throughout the summer cooking up some delicious meals, you will start to notice some things on your planning list that you can live without, and those that are musts. That way, you only get everything you need and avoid unnecessary upgrades or expensive additions.

An outdoor kitchen can really liven up your backyard while allowing you to spend as much time as possible soaking up the summer. If you can DIY some of it and focus on the necessities, you’ll be cooking outside in no time without having to spend an exorbitant amount of cash.

Things to Consider If You Want to

Install a Pool This Summer

Putting a pool in right before the scorching days of summer can be tempting. You want to have somewhere serene to cool off, and what’s better than walking a few steps from your home to get there? But there are some things you should consider before taking the plunge, so to speak.

Consider the Type

There are essentially two types of pools to consider—above or in-ground. Both come with pros and cons. For example, an above-ground pool will cost less, but it doesn’t offer the same visual appeal or permanence that an in-ground pool does. In-ground pools are also more of an investment and can add value to your home that above-ground pools just won’t.

Ongoing Costs

Regardless of the type of pool, there will be ongoing costs, such as chemicals, opening and closing for the season, and maintenance. These costs can vary depending on the size of your pool and how often you use it. Be sure to take note of your finances and whether the pool will add value or simply cost money.

Consider Timing

For some in-ground pool projects, starting in June will only give you a summer full of construction, whereas others will allow you to dive in within three weeks. Above-ground pools take a few hours to a few days to install. So, consider timing in the project, and that will help you determine which pool is right for you.

A pool can be an investment and a very enjoyable (and value-adding) feature on your property. But if you want to get the most out of a new pool, you’ll have to ensure that you know the ongoing costs, the timeline it takes to have one put in, and the type that’ll serve your needs.

Eco-Friendly Upgrades To Add To Your Home

This Summer 

Being environmentally conscious isn’t just trendy—it can actually increase the value of your home and help you save money. So, if you want to save three birds with one stone, adding some eco-friendly upgrades to your property is a great way to do that. 

Think Energy Efficiency 

Several things can be done to improve energy efficiency in your home. Buying appliances that use less power, improving your insulation, and switching out your lightbulbs for LEDs are all fixes that will conserve energy in the long run. Installing a Smart thermostat is another great way to use less energy because you can program it to turn on when you’re home or when you’re out, giving you the ability to set it and forget it while still saving energy.

Use Recycled Materials for Home Upgrades

If you have a renovation project coming up, using recycled materials can make it more sustainable. You can check out reclaimed materials, antique stores, or yard sales to find pieces and materials that speak to you, fit your aesthetic, and will generally cost less than brand new. 

Take Sustainability Outside 

Don’t overlook your outdoor property when making eco-friendly upgrades. For example, you can add a compost bin to your property and use the soil it produces to create a garden or help your lawn grow. You can also save on your water consumption by xeriscaping—a practice that utilizes drought-tolerant plants, rocks, gravel, and mulch to create your lawn instead of just grass. 

Improving your home’s carbon footprint can help save you some money and add value to your home, all while reducing environmental damage. It’s a win-win-win for everyone involved. 

If you want to have the best summer yet, installing a pool and outdoor kitchen, ensuring your garage is as organized as possible, and upgrading to a more eco-friendly property are excellent ways to do that. Just ensure that these decisions are right for you when it comes to personal enjoyment and finances.

May Newsletter          2025

With spring in the air and summer on its way, the promise of sunshine and outdoorsy activities is all but realized. To enjoy the short but sweet seasons in Canada, you’ll want to take advantage of everything they have to offer, like spending more time enjoying your property outdoors while warding off the not-so-great aspects like living with the symptoms of environmental allergies.  

If hosting is in your future, you’ll want to ensure that you know how to throw a backyard BBQ for the May long weekend that your guests will be talking about well into the summer season. 

If throwing parties aren’t for you, you could always enter the RE/MAX On The House A Great Escape Contest, contest link is here, running from May 5-25. You’ll have a chance to win a $1,000 gift card to Marriott to give yourself a mini vacation full of rest and relaxation.

The great thing is that if you set up your space and property just right, you can relax in your backyard without having to deal with pollen counts, throw the best spring and summer parties, and have all the best fresh produce you could ever ask for.

How to Create a Backyard Oasis on a Budget

Turning your backyard into a relaxing oasis is going to cost you some money, but you don’t have to wipe your savings clean to do it. You just have to tackle the project budget-friendly so you can set yourself up for some outdoor relaxation without spending too much of your hard-earned cash.

Ambient Lighting Is Your Best Friend

Setting up some string lights or getting solar-powered patio lights can make all the difference when it comes to feeling the vibe of serenity at home. These things cost very little, with some options even found at the dollar store, and will give you the ambience you need to enjoy your outdoor space even after the sun goes down.  

Refresh Small Pieces

Instead of going overboard and buying a whole new patio furniture set, why not just clean up your old ones (paint them if needed!) and get yourself some new cushions? Changing up the colour scheme can make your space feel brand new for a fraction of the cost.

Keep Things Natural

If you love relaxing among plants, instead of buying all new planters, potters, and hanging pots, you can invest in one good tree, plant it near your fence, and train it to grow in a specific pattern. It’ll cover your fence in fresh greenery, giving it a whole new look with texture and visual interest, and it won’t force you to go all out with plants, potters, and hanging pots.

It's not always easy to find ways to save money, especially in today’s economy, but when trying to create a backyard oasis, there’s always a budget-friendly solution that will make your space feel new, serene, and, most importantly, yours.

Throwing the Ultimate May Long Weekend Barbeque

If you’re ready to start socializing again after a long winter of hibernation, there’s no better way to do that than turning your backyard into a party zone. But if you don’t know where to start, getting all the aspects of a perfect BBQ right can be challenging. The good news is that, with a few easy tips, you’ll be ready to wow your friends with a May long weekend BBQ they’ll never forget.

Go Easy on the Décor

You want your backyard to look great, but too much can make it feel busy and uncomfortable. Stick to the basics—ambient lighting, soft music, comfortable seating, and a few fresh plants. That way, your guests will have room to move around while also admiring all the work you put into making your backyard party-friendly.

Keep The Menu Simple

Cooking for a large group is never easy, so don’t go overboard. You can be more creative than your typical burgers and hotdogs if you want to branch out, but pick a few good food items and make them in batches. This way, everyone will be fed and satisfied, and you won’t feel overwhelmed by having to whip up too many options in your kitchen or grilling outdoors.

Prepare the Day Before

The day of the party will be busy, and you’ll want to be able to enjoy it, so you should always prepare everything the day before. From food to the decorations to what music you’re going to play, having it all laid out the day before will give you the freedom to get things done the day of while still having time to mingle with your guests.

A good spring party is a great way to kick off the nice weather in Canada, so if you’re ready to play host, preparing and keeping things simple is the best way to do it.

What to Plant in May to Liven Up Your Garden and Save Money on Produce

You may have already started your garden, but May is a great time to add a few more plants to the mix. This way, you’ll have more fresh produce to choose from over the course of the summer and into the fall, giving your wallet a break and your stomach a nice treat.

Herbs

Herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint are all great additions to meals, so having them fresh in the garden will help you increase your culinary prowess. These herbs can be sown outdoors beginning in the month of May, so you won’t have to deal with bringing them up inside first.

Legumes

Various legumes, such as bush beans, pole beans, and peas, can all be planted outdoors in May. You’ll want to wait until the soil has warmed up a bit, so mid-month is a great time to start planning where you’ll put them in your garden.

Leafy Greens

Getting leafy greens into your diet is vital because of how nutrient-dense they are, and the fresher the produce, the more nutritional benefits they have to offer. Various leafy greens can be added to your garden in May, including spinach, Swiss chard, kale, and arugula.

Giving your garden a good variety is a great way to enjoy your outdoor space in a way that provides you with something in return. It’ll also keep you from spending too much money on produce this year.

Kicking Allergy Season: How to Prep Your Property to Be Allergen-Free

When you have allergies, it can be challenging to enjoy the spring season. With high pollen counts and allergens everywhere you turn, it can feel like you’re constantly stuck inside beside an air purifier. But there are ways to keep your allergies at bay this season, even if you want to spend most of your time outdoors.

Keep Your Lawn Short

To ensure that grass pollen doesn’t put a wrench in your plan to enjoy the outdoor area of your property, you’ll want to mow your lawn regularly. Keeping your grass well-trimmed and short throughout the season will prevent grass pollen from spreading around, giving you a break from allergy symptoms.

Avoid Allergen-Heavy Plants

When creating a backyard you want to spend time in, getting every plant you like may be tempting. However, some plants are more prone to give off allergens than others. Stick to flowers such as daffodils, hydrangeas, orchids, roses, and snake plants in your garden to avoid unwanted issues.

Keep Shrubs and Trees Trimmed

If there are any overhanging branches or large shrubs that can drive pollen dispersal, you’ll want to nip that in the bud. Keep your trees and shrubs well-groomed and unable to spread pollen. Your allergies will thank you for it.

Allergy season isn’t easy to deal with, but if you love being outdoors and don’t want to make matters worse, sticking to the right plants and maintaining your property to protect you from allergens is a great way to do it.

May is a wonderful month because you’re offered the best of spring and the promise of summer all at the same time. So, if you want to make the most of it with your property, getting the right backyard décor, hosting the best party ever, and keeping allergies at bay are ways to enjoy your property when the weather is nice.

NEWSLETTER                              2025

With the darkness, cold, and snow in the rearview, it’s time to start looking ahead to greener and warmer pastures. Spring is on its way, and with that, so is the promise of flowers, greenery, and longer daylight hours. When the season of rebirth finally arrives, it’s time to start making some changes so that you can enjoy the breath of fresh air that comes along with it.  

But spring isn’t all fun and games, and sometimes you’ll have to deal with a little rain, both literal and proverbial. So, to ensure that your property is well protected and set up for spring success, you’ll want to protect your home from any April shower damage that can occur, prepare your lawn for a season of lushness, and get spring cleaning out of the way early—even if cleaning is the last thing you’ll want to do.

Once all the chores are taken care of, you can use your time to brighten up your home to let the new season in through home décor.

April Showers: Protecting Your Home From Water Damage

April can be a wet and rainy time of the year, and if you’re not careful, that water can leave areas of your home open to expensive damage. To ensure that you won’t be dealing with any headaches this season, you’ll want to keep any issues to a minimum by protecting your home from the damage the spring season can bring.

Inspect for Damage

The first task to take care of is inspecting areas of your home prone to water damage, such as the roof, gutters, and downspouts. If there are minor issues, you can address them before they turn into big problems.

Keep Your Foundation Safe

Foundational damage can compromise the integrity of your entire home, and it’s not an inexpensive or easy fix once something happens. To ensure your foundation is safe from the perils of April’s rainy season, you want to maintain proper drainage away from the foundation.

This could involve grading the land around your house so it slopes away from your home and installing extended downspouts so they make it to an area where the water can’t seep back toward your foundation.

Address Any Leaks, Big or Small

Water leaking into your home through windows or doors can also become a problem, so it’s essential to look for leaks in these areas and seal them off adequately to prevent rain from getting in. You could also invest in a water sensor, which will detect leaks early and allow you to keep track of any significant changes in your water bill. This could tell you about leaks you may have missed during your walkthrough.

Water can cause significant damage to your home, and since April is notoriously wet, it’s best to address these issues before the fun and sun season begins so you can enjoy what’s to come without worrying about considerable property headaches and extensive home costs.

Brightening Up For Spring: April Home Décor Ideas

Changing up your home décor with the seasons is a great way to keep things fresh without digging too far into the wallet. It also creates a vibrant space that allows you to say goodbye to the darkness of winter and hello to brighter days.

Add some Greenery

Now that plants are making an outdoor comeback adding some live greenery to your home can bring that lively energy indoors. You can choose between potted plants or indoor herbs or stick to bright and colourful flowers. There are so many to choose from this season, so pick what suits you best and enjoy the benefits of flora in your home.

Reach for Brighter Hues

Colour can do a lot to change a space, so choosing the right hues will make all the difference. You can reach for vibrant or pastel for the spring season, such as yellows, lavenders, greens, or peaches, and allow them to give your space a refreshed look. From bedding to accent pieces, adding some colour won’t disappoint.

Change Up Your Artwork

Artwork swaps are easy to do because you already have the hardware. You can choose which pieces symbolize spring and swap them out for winter pictures, allowing you to update your rooms easily, on a budget, and in a way that suits your personal taste.

Home décor doesn’t have to be expensive, nor do you need to do a complete overhaul to bring the outdoor brightness inside. All you need to do is focus on colour, flora, and artwork, and it’ll be like you’ve done a complete remodel.

Prepping Your Lawn for Success

Spring is the time to focus on your lawn because you want it to have the best chance of becoming lush and green when summer rolls around. So, if you want the greenest yard on the block, you’ll need to focus on a few things to help it get there.

Clean Up Debris

Leaves, twigs, and other debris left to sit under the winter snowfall should be cleaned up as soon as you know there’s no more white in the forecast. This will give you a fresh canvas to work with, allowing you to see your lawn for what it is now and what needs to be done to get it where you want it to be.

Give Your Soil Some Attention

A healthy lawn starts with soil, so that’s where you should focus your attention. You can aerate it to loosen any compacting and dethatch it if needed. Pulling weeds and testing the soil pH is also a good idea. Once that’s done, you can choose the best fertilizer for your goals, seed any bare patches, and wait for the magic to happen.

Equip Yourself with the Right Tools

Having a good lawn mower and other tools, such as a weed puller, trimmer, or edger, will set you up for success by giving you everything you need to mow regularly. You want tools with sharp blades and an adjustable mowing height to cut your grass perfectly every time.

The lawn is the first thing people see when they come to your home, so if you want to be the one who gets to brag about theirs, April is the perfect time to start preparing for the best lawn season of your life.

Spring Cleaning for People Who Despise The Process

Spring cleaning is a great way to set yourself and your home up for a stress- and clutter-free spring and summer season, but not everyone is into the whole process. But just because you don’t love to clean doesn’t mean you should leave it on the to-do list. There are ways to make spring cleaning more manageable.    

Break Things Up into Smaller Tasks

Instead of focusing on everything that needs to be done, pick and choose the tasks that are easiest to tackle. For example, if your kitchen is the most used room in the house but is cluttered and messy, start there. Tell yourself that all you have to do is the kitchen, and you’ll feel better and more motivated to move on to other rooms when it’s done.

Prioritize Decluttering

Decluttering can go a long way, even if that’s the only thing you do for your round of spring cleaning. Throw out or store away any items you don’t need or that have found themselves piled up over the winter season. It’s incredible how reducing clutter can make a space look so much cleaner without you having to actually clean anything.

Give yourself a time limit

To make the task a little less strenuous, you can implement the 20/10 rule. For every 20 minutes of work, allow yourself a 10-minute break. This will break up the tasks, give you ample time to rest, and still result in a spring-cleaned home.

Spring cleaning is everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay. But if you love the after-effects of the job without wanting to put too much effort into it, you can stick to decluttering and set yourself a time limit to get there.

Spring may be a time to put yourself to work, but it’s only so you can enjoy the fruits of your labour when the rainy season makes way for sunshine and warmth.