On The Bay Spring 2017

SPRING 2017

w w w . o n t h e baym ag az i n e . c o m

Sizzling!

Why our housing market is hotter than ever

Groundbreaking New home developers scramble to meet demand

Outdoor Design What’s new in patios & shelters Gardening Tips from the Pros

NOW F E AT U R I NG T WO E XQU ISI T E C OL L E C T IONS

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IN THIS ISSUE FEATURES 18 The Race to Buy! With fewer houses for sale, buyers are rushing to snap them up as soon as they come on the market.

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BY JANET LEES

33 Groundbreaking!

With a seller’s market continuing in Southern Georgian Bay and resale home inventory in short supply, residential developers are scrambling to break ground and get new homes to market.

BY MARC HUMINILOWYCZ

51 New Homes On The Bay presents our annual guide to residential developments with homes and properties for sale in Southern Georgian Bay.

BY JUDY ROSS

56 A View of the Vineyards At home amidst the vines of The Creemore Hills Winery.

BY JUDY ROSS

69 Patios & Shelters What’s new in outdoor design.

BY JUDY ROSS

76 Gardening Tips from the Pros

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15 ways to get the most from your garden.

BY JUDY ROSS

COLUMNS Fenceposts

14 Grounding Exercises

BY DAN NEEDLES Farm to Table

82 A Passion for Pork

DEPARTMENTS 8 From our Editor 10 From our Readers 95 Openings 97 Marketplace 98 Gallery of Realtors 109 Reader Buying Guide 110 Looking Back

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On the Mitchell Family Farm, raising Berkshire pigs is a lesson in sustainability.

BY EMILY WORTS SPRING 2017

www.onthebaymagazine.com

Artist Spotlight

91 Forces of Nature Wasaga Beach artist Brian Porter merges

Sizzling!

Why our housing market is hotter than ever

street art potency with fine art sensibility.

Groundbreaking New home developers scramble to meet demand

Outdoor Design What’s new in patios & shelters Gardening Tips from the Pros

ON THE COVER: A stone inukshuk stands sentry at Sunset Point Park as the Collingwood Terminals building looms in the background.

PHOTO BY RICHARD GARNER

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FOUR SEASON RETREATS Invest in Enjoyment!

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 1 P UB L I S H ER

Jeffrey Shearer jshearer@onthebaymagazine.com ED I T OR

INCOME CONDO AT BLUE MTN Rentals net over $15K 2016 YTD! Turnkey w view of the ski hills, southerly bachelor suite, sleeps 4, garage, ski locker. Westin offers yr round outdoor pool & hot tubs, private beach, gym, sauna & Oliver & Bonacini restaurant. Asking $199,900

LIGHTHOUSE POINT Desired waterfront complex, 3 bdrm, 2 bath condo, no stairs, lots of storage & parking, gas heat + f/p & a/c, lrg patio w shade & sun.

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IN FO R MATIO N A N D R A T ES F OR N A T I ON A L A D V ER T I S ER S

www.bigcountrymagazines.com On The Bay is published by On The Bay Magazine Inc. 4 issues per year and distributed by Canada Post to the majority of households and businesses in Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Nottawa, Craigleith, Glencairn, Thornbury, Clarksburg, Ravenna, Markdale, Meaford, Creemore, Duntroon, Stayner, Glen Huron, Dunedin, Kimberley, Singhampton and Flesherton.

The magazine is also distributed to hotels, resorts, developer showrooms, realtor offices, and to members of private ski and golf clubs in the area.

DOWNTOWN WATERFRONT LIVING 1800 sq ft loft style penthouse w expansive Bay views from all windows. Architecturally redesigned 1 large bdrm + den, 2 full baths.

2 exc use underground parking spaces. Asking $699,900

CRAIGLEITH COMMERCIAL CORNER 1.35 acs, many uses permitted, full municipal services. Retail plaza permits 16,000 ground sf.

Tremendous current & proposed residential development in area.

Approx 12,000+ vehicles/day pass by. Asking $799,900

Subscriptions outside the distribution area are $25.95 per year for 4 issues (including HST), payable by cheque or credit card.

No part of On The Bay may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent of On The Bay Magazine Inc. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or staff of On The Bay Magazine.

Letters to the editor are welcome: readermail@onthebaymagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40943009 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: On The Bay Magazine Suite 201, 186 Hurontario St., Collingwood, Ontario, L9Y 4T4

Jane Moysey Broker (705) 888-1982 jane@janemoysey.com

Two heads ARE better than one!

Lorraine McDonald Sales Representative (705) 444-4216 lorrainemcdonald@ royallepage.ca

LOCAL . GLOBAL . PROUDLY CANADIAN . Helping YOU is what we do.

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2017

Tel: 705-444-9192 Toll-free: 1-888-282-2014 Fax: 705-444-5658 Printed in Canada by Ironstone Media.

www.onthebaymagazine.com

O U R

E D IT OR

PHOTO BY RICHARD GARNER

FR O M

We are

Here Our cover image for this issue of On The Bay depicts two iconic local landmarks – the Collingwood grain elevator and the stone inukshuk at Sunset Point Park.

They are fitting symbols for the subject matter contained in the following pages; the towering grain terminal, emblematic of our area’s rich history, almost seems to anchor the majestic inukshuk that commemorates one of Collingwood’s favourite sons while serving to remind us all why we’re here.

The Sunset Point inukshuk is first and foremost a tribute to Pete Crompton, a popular local man and avid windsurfer who died in a boating accident in 2003 at age 27. The stone giant stands watch over Crompton’s beloved Nottawasaga Bay in recognition of life lived large and taken too soon. Over time it has developed almost spiritual significance as a totem for all who pass by.

The word inukshuk means “in the likeness of a human” in the Inuit language. These monuments of unworked stones have been used for centuries by the Inuit for navigation, communication and survival.

Traditionally, an inukshuk says, “someone was here” or “you are on the right path.”

When publisher Jeff Shearer and I were laying the foundations for On The Bay, also coincidentally in 2003, we wanted to create a magazine that would reflect all the reasons we are proud to say, “I am here” and all of the people whose paths lead them to these shores. In the early days of the magazine, we published articles about the people who were making their way here, from “Naturally Attracted Thirty-somethings” (NATs, as we called them) to those in their forties, fifties and into senior-hood.

In the years since, we have published countless articles about the

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2017

The word inukshuk means “in the likeness of a human” in the Inuit language.

These monuments of unworked stones have been used for centuries by the Inuit for navigation, communication and survival. Traditionally, an inukshuk says, “someone was here” or “you are on the right path.”

reasons those groups are choosing to plant roots here – a sense of community, a wealth of natural wonders, a lifestyle filled with outdoor activities, culture, food, family and friends. We have written about the power of place and the many issues that impact our enjoyment of life in Southern Georgian Bay, now and into the future.

Everything we have been saying for the past 13 years has now reached a zenith, reflected in the real estate and development articles contained in this issue of On The Bay. More and more people from those varied demographic groups are finding reasons to make their homes in our region, while those who can already say, “I am here” are happily staying put. It’s causing a bit of a bottleneck in our local real estate market, which presents challenges for buyers who are competing for the few homes available to purchase. Prices are rising accordingly as low supply and high demand whirl their frenzied tango. And new home developers are scrambling to bring projects to market before those willing buyers become too exhausted to dance.

Our little corner of paradise is no longer a well-kept secret. Growth and change are inevitable, and we must remain vigilant to ensure that the growth and change ahead remain true to the character and integrity of our beloved Southern Georgian Bay. Just as the grain elevator reminds us from whence we have come, the inukshuk signifies the enduring power of this place, and the pride we all have in being able to say, “I was here.” ❧

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FROM OUR

READERS

RE: GRASSROOTS HEROES, WINTER 2016

RE: ON THE BAY, WINTER 2016 This is just a short note to say that with each edition of On The Bay I marvel at how it continues to get better and better.

This time, the 10th annual Salute to Grassroots Heroes, the story and photos about Kolapore, a wonderful look at photographer Richard Garner’s work and an interesting tribute by Sandy McInnes, along with interesting advertisements, make me want to share On The Bay with outof-town friends. I’ll get at that right after I use your restaurant guide, done in concert with My Collingwood, to figure out where we’ll get together for a bite.

Years ago, as a newcomer to Collingwood and area, my family and I used to enjoy “secret” places such as Kolapore. Today, such places are making front-page news in On The Bay! That’s a good thing as more and more people

Just a quick note to thank you for your very generous On The Bay piece. It was an honour to be thought of. I hope you’re proud. Personal appreciations aside, I think it’s wonderful that you’re celebrating our community as you are.

Evan Siddall, Collingwood Thank you so much for the honour of being named one of the local Grassroots Heroes in your magazine! It was really interesting to see the diversity of activities and programs being supported locally, and the incredible individuals who are truly making the community a better place to live.

Volunteers are key to the success of our community programs, and I hope that reading these stories helps motivate others to become involved in their favorite activities in whatever way they can.

I would like to offer a correction as well: I am not in charge of the YMCA’s running program. I have helped to facilitate one of the sessions, and have great pride and appreciation for the staff and volunteers who organize, plan and implement these sessions year-long. I am merely one of the people who step in and help out as needed. I am so thankful for the programming, supportive staff and encouragement from my friends at the Y who have encouraged me to keep active and give back. I would also like to thank our community partners who help make so much of these activities possible, including the Healthy Kids Community Challenge that gave funding towards some of the Georgian Triangle Running Club/ Y run programs and events.

I look forward to seeing what other great things our community members are doing. Thank you to everyone who volunteers – we couldn’t do it without you!

Caitlin Foisy

How do you measure success?     

Enjoyed great careers Raised a beautiful family Retired to a lovely community Joined volunteer boards to make a difference Fulfilled our philanthropic goal by planning our legacy “We’re proud to do our part to support our local hospital.

We chose to plan a gift in our will because we know firsthand how big an impact this type of gift can have.

The CGMH Foundation provided us with all the information we needed to plan our gift and made the whole process easy and painless for us.” ~David & Jacquie Sims

For more information about donating life insurance or planning a gift in your will contact Jarvis Strong 705-444-8675 or jarvis.strong@cgmh.on.ca

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2017

RE: CRAZY FOR KOLAPORE, WINTER 2016 I just wanted to thank you so much for the “Crazy for Kolapore” article in your most recent edition of On The Bay. I couldn’t believe we made the front cover – what an amazing surprise! All of us at Free Spirit Tours LOVE Kolapore!

We know that the Kolapore Wilderness Trails Association works extremely hard on the trails in there for everyone to enjoy and are so grateful for that. And we feel so grateful that we can take people to Metcalfe Rock and show them how incredibly beautiful and magical it is. We know your article will spark a desire in more people to explore this truly incredible place. Well done!

Jennie Elmslie, Free Spirit Tours

RE: THE POLITICS OF CARING, WINTER 2016 Bravo for your moving editorial, a testimony to the human spirit and a call to action. It takes a jolt to rouse us from our comfortable armchairs. Such a jolt occurred last March in the Town of the Blue Mountains, when the entire library staff was fired under the dishonest guise of “Staff Development Day.” The surprise firing was in the service of an undisclosed restructuring to deal with a troubled Depot in Craigleith, and contrary to the library’s Strategic Plan 2015-2018, to add a branch there.

We see ourselves as a caring community. The unjust firings galvanized us to form a citizens’ group, VOCAL – Voices of Community for Accountable Leadership – with hundreds of advocates. (OurLibraryOurVoice.com). The board chair resigned. The mayor, without advertising the position to the community in defiance of the Public Libraries Act, was appointed to the board and took over as chair. Now 30 per cent of the board has resigned.

To date, council has not filled the vacancies. Again, a breach of the Act which calls for council “to promptly appoint a person to fill the vacancy” (R.S.O.1990,c.P44,s.12).

In a situation calling for candour and communication from the CEO and board, both are woefully lacking, exacerbating public mistrust. As one former

E THEAT R R E G NT S A U L H UG SALE G O N DSPRI

board member states: “I stepped down due to frustration with governance, lack of candour, and disrespect for the public.”

More than disrespect, this represents a policy of silence and silencing.

Many letters have been written. No acknowledgement or response to a persistent public outcry. This truculent, top-heavy style of board governance is so outdated as to be ludicrous. The policy of silence is childish and petulant.

But this has served to make our community and our “politics of caring” ever stronger. Democracy is complicated, messy, and demands due process, dialogue and participation. Libraries are increasingly purposed as democratic public spaces. And as such must be protected from undemocratic takeovers.

Like you, VOCAL has taken a stand.

Rosemary Gosselin, Thornbury

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RE: SEE, HEAR! WINTER 2016 Thank you very much for including my interview in your latest issue of On The Bay. There is just one correction to the paragraph that states cataract surgery requires simple laser touch-ups every few years. Although not an unusual requirement, most implants following cataract surgery do not require a laser touch-up. As well, that laser treatment is only needed once per eye if needed at all.

Dr. Jayne Cation, Collingwood

RE: COLLINGWOOD G&M HOSPITAL As a former hospital president and CEO who has sought government approvals and who oversaw construction of a 500-bed hospital on a green field site, and a rebuild on an existing site, it is atypical and a gift that the Ministry of Health Capital Branch encouraged the G&M hospital to submit their Phase 1 Plan and commit the ministry to a four- to six-week turnaround for their response. The local hospital took advantage of this encouragement from the ministry and submitted its Phase 1 plan in September – then Collingwood Council got in the way, apparently led by the deputy mayor.

Having built a new hospital on a green field site and completed three years of disruptive renovations on the existing G&M hospital in the ’90s, I can tell you that there is no comparison in terms of ease of construction, reduced cost and hitting timelines in the green field option. That is what Oakville did, that is what Niagara did, that is what Barrie did, as well as Brampton and Peterborough to name a few. There is a reason hospitals select green field sites for the construction of their new facilities: no need for costly, time-consuming and sometimes contentious expropriation and demolition of existing buildings.

Also, paramedic access to the hospital’s preferred site on Poplar Sideroad by local ambulances is superior from Clearview, the Beach and the Mountain, not to mention Collingwood. No more town congestion to deal with, but rather clear access from the south, west and east via Poplar Sideroad. Easier and

quicker access to the hospital by ambulance has the potential to save lives of future patients when minutes matter.

And yet, from council’s public meeting on Monday, Feb. 27, it appears that our councillors – with the exception of Kevin Lloyd – doggedly hang onto keeping the hospital on its current site. This was evidenced by the deputy mayor’s “cross examination” of council’s guest and presenter, Mr. Finbow, representing the hospital. Council suggests that the two parties should “collaborate” going forward. If Mr. Sanderson’s “cross examination” is council’s idea of collaboration, such collaboration is doomed.

Mr. Finbow noted in his remarks Monday night that in 30 years of working with municipalities, he has never experienced such a premature and prejudicial study the likes of that commissioned by Collingwood Council. In my 35 years in health care, I am unaware of a similar approach from a supportive municipality of their local hospital’s redevelopment effort.

If our local hospital should miss the 2017-18 capital allocation cycle of the Ministry of Health through the government’s budget announcement later this year, the citizens of Collingwood and surrounding municipalities served by the hospital will have to look no further than Collingwood Council.

Planning, approval and construction of a new hospital is generally a 10-year process. The hospital has already been delayed six months through the town’s meddling, and we heard at the Feb. 27 meeting that the hospital will require another four to six months to develop the second submission in light of the unprecedented timing of Collingwood Council’s study.

Citizens of Collingwood served by the hospital should insist that their elected officials provide appropriate zoning for the Poplar Sideroad site and then step aside and let the hospital and its consultants try to salvage the process they began in earnest on behalf of residents and visitors to Collingwood, Clearview, Wasaga Beach and The Town of the Blue Mountains.

Paul Darby, Collingwood

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RE: NOTTAWASAGA LIGHTHOUSE On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society (NLPS), I am pleased to report that 2016 was a very rewarding and successful year for the Society.

Following various initiatives completed by the former board of directors including gaining charitable status with the Canada Revenue Agency, the new board has continued to work in earnest fundraising, promoting the restoration of the tower and preserving the structure in its present state while funds are raised for its restoration. Several noteworthy financial contributions were received throughout the year from private individuals and corporate donors including a recent grant from the Weston Foundation.

Following a proposal to the federal government, permission was granted by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans giving NLPS access to the island for the purpose of shrink wrapping the tower. Sealing the structure from the elements and preventing further water penetration to the interior was viewed as crucial before further degradation potentially rendered the lighthouse non-restorable without exorbitant expense. Work commenced in late October. With a shallow approach, access to the island was made further difficult with strong fall winds.

Equipment needed for the job included everything from basic hand tools to a 38,000 boom lift, all of which had to be barged to the island and back once the work was completed.

Prior to installing the wrap, hazardous loose stones were knocked from the exterior and bands installed in 2006 designed to prevent further loss of stone were retightened. A wooden framework was attached to the exterior to support the shrinkwrap, allowing adequate airflow to dry out the interior. Engineers hired by the government visited the site to assess the tower and determined it to be structurally sound. With the work 80 per cent complete, gale force winds shredded the unsecured plastic, undoing much of the work. Undeterred and with an extension of the project’s approval by the government, our engineer developed an alternate plan and

work commenced on re-wrapping the structure using a different material and process.

We are happy to report that the work was completed with all equipment barged back to Collingwood harbour in early December before freeze-up.

Despite severe winds, the re-wrapped tower has stood up well and we are confident it will continue to do so until such time as sufficient funds are raised to commence a full restoration. Wrapping the tower this fall was the most significant work done on the structure since 2006. This wrapping will serve to protect the lighthouse from further degradation while at the same time displaying to the community our determination to restore this iconic structure to its former glory as one of six “Imperial Towers” on the Great Lakes.

We would like to thank the following, who stuck with us literally to the bitter end in completing this important work: Weatherall Dock and Dredge, Markdale; CRS Rentals, Collingwood; Bill Brown Lumber, Collingwood; Collingwood Home Hardware; SDM Construction Inc., Woodbridge; the Town of Collingwood Dept. of Parks and Recreation; and local resident Howie Outerbridge.

We are always looking for volunteers, and no assistance is deemed too small to help us with this ambitious project. For further information on how you can help this worthwhile cause, visit: www.nlps.info.

Rick Crouch, Collingwood

WHERE DO YOU STAND ON THE ISSUES? Do you have any comments, suggestions or additional information in response to any of our stories?

Don’t be shy! We’d love to hear from you! To submit your letter to the Editor, go to www.onthebaymagazine.com and click on “Have Your Say.” Comments will be published in an upcoming issue of On The Bay. We reserve the right to edit for style, content and space considerations.

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FENC E P O S T S

GROUNDING EXERCISES True confessions from the 9th Concession

by DAN NEEDLES

❧

illustration by SHELAGH ARMSTRONG-HODGSON

The turmoil south of the border has morphed into a freeway chase that just won’t stop. We stare wide-eyed as the Trump machine takes out lampposts and climbs the sidewalk, wondering how and where this will all end.

But at some point, for our sanity, we must find a way to tear ourselves away from the screen and return to our lives.

It is a natural instinct for humans to want to occupy a knowable, controllable universe, to shrink things to a scale we can comprehend. But trying to understand this post-factual world has become exhausting and ridiculous. We look for ways to bring the fever down, but sitting by the bird feeder with a warm cup of herbal tea just doesn’t cut it.

Therapists who treat patients for anxiety disorder often use a technique called “grounding.” They put a rock or a piece of wood in your hands and ask you to describe what it feels like. The physical sensations of cold stone and the smell of the wood pull you back to earth and calm you. My friends in the First Nations community tell me that whenever a kid gets into difficulty, the first thing they do is put a coat and boots on him and take him out to the bush for a few days.

For my own part, I discovered at an early age that people who work outside with their hands tend to be more grounded than the rest of the population, and I have always sought out their company. Cattle farmers were my therapists then and still are. Farmers have their fits and furies, to be sure, but because there is no such thing as a post-truth cow or an alternative-fact chicken, they tend not to spin off into strange territory the way politicians and hedge fund managers do.

That’s why, whenever I feel anxiety building to an uncomfortable level, I pull up a chair at the Table of Truth in Paula’s Pantry or join the G-4 meetings at Grandma Giffen’s lunch counter down in the Glen. These are hangouts for people whom the humorist Garrison Keillor once described as Happy Lutherans: folks who don’t obsess about fine points of doctrine the way their

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dark and brooding cousins do. If they do speak up during a debate, it is usually to ask a question like, “Hadn’t thought about it either way, but if you’re coming on Sunday, would you bring a hot dish?”

A few days after Trump was elected last November, I attended the Landowner Appreciation Event for the Credit River Conservation Authority. Awards were handed out to volunteers who have been working anywhere from 10 to 50 years to restore the water quality of the river, and they were celebrating that the river once again supports a sport trout fishery. It struck me that this was real change.

Real change is always slow, incremental and very quiet. It does not come from places like Queen’s Park or Ottawa or Washington. It happens when a group of like-minded people get together on a Saturday morning to pull old tires and bedsprings out of a river. The evening reminded me that the arc of the moral universe may be long but it does bend toward less stupidity and more civility.

About the same time, I attended two fundraisers, one for a Caledon heritage group that has waged a slow and steady effort to preserve the historic homes of the neighbourhood, another for DAREarts, which uses art to intervene in the lives of at-risk youth. Then I went to an event in Creemore where a hundred people turned out to watch a group of amateurs stumble through a program of elegant poetry and wretchedly low comedy to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. They were following a pattern laid down by their forebears that shows how nonsense can make perfect sense of a Canadian winter.

These evenings made me feel better and reminded me that whenever collective trauma strikes, self-care is the worst therapy we can give ourselves.

We must be up and doing, as grandmother used to say.

Isolation is the biggest threat to our lives and there is only one way to deal with that. We must shoulder our way into a human community and try to do good work. ❧

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The

RACE TO BUY! With fewer houses for sale, buyers are rushing to snap them up as soon as they come on the market stories by JANET LEES illustrations by LISA ROTENBERG

arket paralysis. Unprecedented. Abnormal. Those are just some of the ways local realtors are describing the current housing market. Inventory is at an all-time low, and the shortage of homes for sale combined with high demand is causing homeowners to put off selling because there’s nothing else to buy, further perpetuating the cycle. There are stories of bidding wars, houses selling for well over asking price, and buyers literally lining up to be first to make an offer.

Theories abound as to what is happening and why, from foreign investment to domestic speculators to land shortages. Whatever the reason, the laws of supply and demand are in full effect as potential buyers join the melee competing for the few available houses as soon as they come on the market. On The Bay talked to local realtors from across the region to help you understand and navigate today’s challenging real estate market.

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MA R K E T about 265 at the end of January). This shortage of supply is hemming in sales activity.

How are low inventory and other market forces affecting home prices in Southern Georgian Bay? SR: The average price in our area is rising at an accelerating rate. It was up almost 11 per cent in 2016 vs. 2015. The rising quarterly trend for yearover-year average price growth began in Q1 2016 (at less than 6 per cent); in Q4 2016, the gain had swelled to almost 20 per cent year-over-year.

REA L ES TATE

Q&A

Exactly how hot is the current resale home market? igh demand for resale homes is usually a boon to local realtors. But when strong demand is coupled with record low inventory of homes for sale, the frustration for both realtors and prospective home buyers becomes palpable. That is what’s happening in our local real estate market today, and it’s driving prices skyward as buyers compete for the few available homes on the market.

After setting a new annual record in 2016, home sales tapered off in January due to lack of inventory, but February saw the second highest levels on record for that month, according to Stan Reljic, president of the Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors (SGBAR). “It was likely the rise in new listings in February that allowed for the increase in sales,” said Reljic. “Hopefully this is the start of an upward trend for supply, because that is what this market needs most right now.”

On The Bay interviewed Reljic to get his insights into today’s resale home market in the SGBAR’s Western District, which includes Wasaga Beach, Springwater, Clearview Township, Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, Meaford and Grey Highlands. Here are his insights: How would you describe the current resale home market and why?

Stan Reljic: Strong demand is chasing a record-low number of properties for sale. The housing market is now at its tightest balance point between supply and demand on record. The shortage of supply has become something of a vicious circle throughout the GTA, Golden Horseshoe and Greater Golden Horseshoe regions. Existing owners who wish to sell face a scarcity of homes available for purchase.

What are some key numbers to illustrate the current state of the market?

SR: There are currently just two months of inventory. The 20-year average for the number of months of inventory is just over eight months (after removing regular seasonal fluctuations). Sales activity and average sale price set new annual records in 2016 (with average price up almost 11 per cent vs. 2015). At this time last year, the actual (not seasonally adjusted) number of homes for sale via MLS Systems was already low (540 properties). Since then, that number has been halved (having dropped to

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What are the challenges in the current market, for both buyers and sellers?

SR: For buyers the challenge is finding a home they can afford and qualifying for mortgage financing under newly tightened mortgage regulations. Moreover, given the shortage of listings and strong demand, buyers face stiff competition from other buyers. Sellers intending to stay in the region face an easier time selling than buying a different home, given the competition from other buyers. However, sellers with substantial equity in their current home may have an advantage over competing buyers and feel less pressured than first-time home buyers.

Do you have any real-world anecdotes or examples to illustrate the current market conditions, challenges, opportunities, changes, etc.?

SR: One that particularly stands out relates to vacant lots. For years we have had hundreds of vacant build-ready, fully serviced lots available, attracting little interest. With the recent shortage of homes on the market, those lots are all but gone, as buyers have shifted to building new. However, even that has become challenging as the builders are adjusting to the new demands, and timelines are becoming longer than they have typically been.

As president of the SGBAR, what is your forecast for the near-future real estate market in our area?

SR: There is little to suggest a slowdown in prices at this point; indeed, evidence points to the opposite, with continued price growth for the foreseeable future. On the sales side, it will be very difficult for the market in 2017 to match last year’s sales record given the growing supply shortage.

What do sellers and prospective buyers need to know in order to navigate the current market?

SR: Give your realtor all the details; for example, your plans both short and long term, your needs and wants. The more the realtor knows you as a buyer, the more empowered they will be to navigate you through this market.

What specific advice do you have for sellers in this seller’s market?

SR: Talk with your realtor about the process after the listing hits the market. Typically the focus is on pricing and staging the steps to get the house on the market. More conversation needs to be about what happens after. Talk about multiple offers, ask about conditional agreements. Today’s market is fast paced and can be overwhelming; the more comfortable and knowledgeable you are about the process the less stressful the experience will be.

What advice do you have for prospective buyers with inventory at an all-time low?

SR: Of critical importance is, if you require financing, ensure that you have that in place before you jump into this market. Most offers will still be conditional on financing because of the way our banking system works; however, talking to your bank or mortgage broker and providing all the necessary paperwork they require to qualify you in advance will save you a lot of stress at offer time. Outside of financing, be prepared and have a plan B, and possibly even a plan C, because in all likelihood you may not be able to get everything on your list.

Do you have any other insights for our readers?

SR: The lifestyle we live here is spectacular, and this is the driving force of our market. Short and longer term we will maintain a strong, viable market in the Southern Georgian Bay area. ❧

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1.

SUPPLY & DEMAND In a nutshell, what we are experiencing is a case of basic economics – lots of buyers creating high demand but very few sellers, leading to low supply. A seller’s market is usually indicated by a sales-to-activelistings ratio of 20 per cent or higher. Our market ratio has been considerably higher, as overall supply sits at the lowest levels in more than a decade. According to the Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors (SGBAR), the sales-to-listing ratio passed the 70 per cent mark in 2016, up from 55 per cent in 2015, while the number of new listings dropped 9.5 per cent.

“The average sale price increased by 11.87 per cent, from $337,335 dollars to $377,392 dollars, meaning that there was an average gain by homeowners of over $40,000 in home equity year over year,” notes Gowans. “Year-end dollar sales volume was up an astounding 29 per cent, while at the end of 2016 property sales were also up 15 per cent.”

2.

MOTIVATION

A PER FE CT

STORM Why our market is so intense ast year at this time, the real estate market in Southern Georgian Bay had tipped into a seller’s market, in which there were fewer homes available for sale than buyers looking to purchase homes in the area. Now that situation has become extreme – inventory is at an all-time low and can’t come close to meeting the demand. Homes that do come on the market are snapped up swiftly, often at above asking price. Realtors and prospective buyers are frustrated and overwhelmed as competition for each property becomes frenzied.

“I have been in Collingwood for more than 45 years and have not seen the current situation in the real estate market in all that time,” says Maureen Gowans, broker of record for Clairwood Real Estate.

“An interesting dynamic has been set up that has caused a bottleneck in the market and hence a very hot seller’s market.” To put this into perspective, Gowans notes that at one point in January, the number of residential listings available for sale in Collingwood was a mere 36. “In a more balanced market, just one of my realtors alone could be managing that many listings and more.”

As inventory fell and prices climbed, demand nevertheless continued to increase. As Chris Keleher, broker for Royal LePage Locations North, explains, “Many buyers who have been watching the market and waiting for better pricing for a while have now realized they missed out and will have to pay more. That is part of what is driving more urgency in the demand in our area: people feeling like they should have bought earlier. My best advice is, don’t wait to buy real estate. Buy real estate and wait.”

Several factors have contributed to the market shift and will likely continue to drive it forward. We asked Gowans and Keleher to share their insights on what is fueling the current market so you can navigate accordingly.

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Those looking to buy homes in Southern Georgian Bay are typically motivated by lifestyle. Our area offers a range of four-season recreational activities, gorgeous scenery and a sense of community without having to sacrifice culture or amenities. “The overall awareness of what life in this area has to offer has had the biggest impact on our market thus far,” notes Keleher. “The four-seasons aspect, combined with all the amenities, shops, restaurants, events, groups and theatre and the entry point in dollars has begun to appeal to more people than an amazing two months a year in Muskoka.”

There is also another group that doesn’t necessarily fall into the above categories but is making a huge impact nonetheless. Keleher explains, “Those watching the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) looking for a ‘good deal’ started to see sales and prices climb as the inventory dropped, and suddenly their reason for buying changed.

Instead of watching for price reductions, they were seeing sales. They realized they didn’t want to buy here because it was a good deal; they wanted to buy here to change their life. Suddenly the time frame for ownership in our area was based on lifestyle and timing, not on getting a good deal. This is a huge market shift.”

3.

THE GTA MARKET The ongoing hot market in the Greater Toronto Area is another factor that has impacted sales and prices in Southern Georgian Bay. “For many buyers, Toronto and GTA home prices are becoming unaffordable,” says Gowans. “We continue to experience a huge draw of clientele from the GTA, as our area still appears to be affordable.”

Rising prices and lack of inventory are not a deterrent – these buyers are used to it, and compared to the GTA, our area is an attractive option. “They are coming from an inflated market with no inventory,” says Keleher. “Young families, single millennials, semi retirees and so on are all wondering either when the bubble with burst in the GTA, so they are selling now, or they have so much equity in their home suddenly, that it is time to own a second home.”

Some buyers are keeping their GTA home and borrowing against equity, some are selling and finding that they can’t buy back into the GTA market due to inflated prices, and others are selling their GTA home in order to get more home for their money in Southern Georgian Bay, where prices are still substantially lower than GTA prices.

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“People are finding now to be the time to move up north as they have always wanted to,” says Keleher. “High sale prices in the GTA are providing excess equity to enable people to move north and start the next chapter.”

4.

DEMOGRAPHICS Retirees and semi-retirees from the Boomer generation are competing with families and working professionals for the available homes for sale as more and more of the latter find ways to work remotely or start a business in the area.

“Thanks to the glories of the mobile office,” notes Keleher, “many of the younger Boomers are realizing they can work from home most days of the week, and why not do it from here? Let’s sell our larger home in the GTA to get a bigger home in Southern Georgian Bay, and just grab a small condo in the city for when we need to be there.

We can Air B&B it when not using it to cover costs. We can do the reverse cottaging thing – have a smaller place in the city we spend a couple of days a week at, and a larger place up north we can base our life out of.”

An even younger set is also starting to make the march northward.

Millennials are now hitting their 30s and taking their place in the housing market. They have different priorities than their parents’ generation, and Southern Georgian Bay suits them to a T. “Millennials are coming of age,” says Keleher. “They are entrepreneurs, risk takers and self starters. They want their kids to live outdoors, eat organic, be active and not be in the rat race. They have just sold their first business, and our area seems like the best place to start their next one. Ninety minutes to Pearson International Airport? Well, it was 90 minutes from downtown Toronto to the airport at times. At least this is a scenic journey. Have to be in the city two days a week? Thank you, Air B&B. The new generation of business owners will continue to populate this great area and capitalize on the lifestyle for their families.”

Collingwood was recently named Canada’s fastest growing entrepreneurial community. Entrepreneurs who are looking for lifestyle, perhaps flush with a nest egg from selling their home in the GTA, are primed to start a business in Southern Georgian Bay, whether it’s a bricks-and-mortar business or a mobile business that can be operated from anywhere in the world.

5.

INVESTORS & SPECULATORS There are also more investors and speculators looking to our market, and while this is not as big of an issue here as in large cities like Toronto and Vancouver, local realtors are reporting that it is on the rise. “Buying an income property in Toronto now doesn’t offer an ROI that makes sense, as rents do not match present value,” says Keleher. “So, as capitalization rates decrease in the GTA, investors are looking for lower entry barriers in our area.”

Investors are also being drawn to our area by the rapidly increasing prices in Southern Georgian Bay, and domestic, “homegrown” investors far outnumber the foreign investors who are having such a huge impact on the Toronto market.

“Many of the investors are not big players, but ordinary people who use the equity in their existing home to capitalize on the hot market and they don’t need to sell another property,” notes Gowans.

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“This allows them to be very competitive. The increased number of investors results in an increased number of offers, bidding wars and increased prices.”

Investors can often afford to bid higher and pay more for a home, as they can take advantage of tax write-offs available to them.

5.

RENTAL INVENTORY What does a shortage of rental units have to do with the resale home market? Plenty, according to Keleher.

“With very little to choose from for renters, the residential rental market is primed for the taking, particularly in Collingwood,” he says.

“The town needs more affordable rental units and they are offering grants accordingly. Investors from the GTA are buying homes and creating accessory apartments and getting a much better ROI here, with 20 per cent of the investment dollars. Lopsided supply and demand for rentals has had an impact.”

6.

THE U.S. MARKET A few years ago, the Canadian dollar was near par with the U.S. dollar, real estate prices in southern destinations were dropping and many Canadians were able to purchase properties well below market value, especially due to foreclosures and ‘short sales.’

“We found many of our local clients were selling their Collingwood and area properties and buying that recreational property down south instead,” recalls Gowans. “Now real estate prices in the southern U.S. markets have rebounded and the Canadian dollar has dropped significantly. Buyers no longer want to pay the increased prices nor the exchange on the dollar. So Canadians are no longer buying down south to the same degree, which means they are also not selling their properties in our area.”

7.

WHAT’S NEXT? The impact of this “perfect storm” of factors has created gridlock in our local real estate market. “Very little is moving, and what is moving is attracting multiple offers and higher prices,” says Gowans.

“What will break the gridlock? The solution is for more inventory to come on stream into the market.”

But where will it come from? An uptick in the spring housing market is a possibility as more sellers typically list their homes in the spring. An influx of new construction homes is another solution, and one that has already begun as developers scramble to build more new homes. As new homes are completed, those who purchased them will be in a position to sell their existing properties, or in the case of speculators, they will turn around and resell the new home to take advantage of the higher prices.

On the following pages are some expert tips to help you navigate today’s challenging real estate market. The best advice: “Be mindful that crazy hot markets can generate risky scenarios,” warns Gowans. “Navigating multiple offers is tricky from both the buyer’s and seller’s perspective. It requires a very skilled, knowledgeable and savvy realtor. You need to have expertise in any real estate market, but most importantly, in this very hot seller’s market.” ❧

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will not hold you back from selling your home in a seller’s market.

Although buyers will overlook small defects in today’s seller’s market, curb appeal, minor fixes, decluttering and cleaning your home from top to bottom will help you get top dollar for your home. “You want buyers to fall in love with your home the moment they pull up,” says Syrota. “Decorate the front entrance, install new light fixtures, fix any leaking taps, paint where it is needed, and declutter.”

Decluttering doesn’t mean filling up the basement or garage with boxes – that only defeats the purpose. Syrota recommends renting a storage unit to keep all areas in your home clutter-free.

Staging is also worth the effort. “Buyers are attracted to homes that feel bright and spacious,” he says, adding that staging is also a worthwhile investment even in a seller’s market. “If you don’t have the time or decorating know-how to stage your home, hire a professional stager to help you,” he advises. “Even in today’s seller’s market, I’ve seen staging help sell a home for even more money by attracting more offers.”

TIPS FOR

SELLERS Making the sale in an extreme seller’s market elling your home in a seller’s market might seem like a no-brainer: just put the sign out and let the hot market take care of the rest. Yes, it’s a fabulous time to sell; your days on the market will be substantially fewer than they would be in a buyer’s market, and you might even receive multiple offers driving up the sale price. However, being a seller in today’s market is far more complicated than you might think.

Here are some tips to help you capitalize on the current market.

1. Move Quickly It might be tempting to wait to list your home once prices hit a certain peak, but waiting could mean losing out on the market’s momentum.

Seller’s markets don’t last forever, so it’s important to move quickly and decisively catch the window of opportunity to sell your home in the shortest time at the best possible price before the market changes.

“It’s generally a good idea to take advantage of pent-up demand because it’s the demand that drives competition,” says Greg Syrota of Royal LePage Trinity Realty. “The larger number of buyers for your home ought to increase the odds you’ll make more money. Most homes, especially those referred to as unique homes – meaning homes that can be difficult to sell in any real estate market – will generally stand a better chance of selling well in a seller’s market.”

2. Prep, But Don’t Over-Prep In a buyer’s market, the best strategy is to invest some time and money to beautify your home to make it more attractive to buyers. While showing your home to its best possible advantage is still a worthy strategy in a seller’s market, fewer homes on the market means less competition from other homes for sale, so your home doesn’t have to be perfect.

Do quick updates and avoid lengthy renovations so you can catch the seller’s market while it lasts. For example, if the existing carpeting is worn, your home might sell faster and you may even net a higher price with new carpeting, but generally, worn carpeting

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3. Find Creative Ways to Sell Now One of the reasons for the lack of inventory right now is that sellers are reluctant to list their homes because they are worried that if they sell they will not be able to find something else to buy. But remember, in a seller’s market, you have the upper hand, and there are creative ways to make the market work for you.

If you haven’t found another home to buy yet, or if you need to sell your home before you can buy another home without conditions, you can make it a condition of your listing that buyers must complete the sales transaction quickly so you get your money sooner, or you can even require them to allow you to rent back the home on a month-to-month basis until you are ready to move.

You can also use financing to buy first and sell later. “One option I recommend is setting up bridge financing using the equity in the current home for the down payment on the new home,” says Syrota. “Negotiate a long closing on the new home, so you have time to list and sell your current home with the same or close closing date. A second option is setting up a secured line of credit to buy, which can be paid back when the current home sells.”

4. Price Your Home Strategically Today’s buyers are eager but not gullible, so you have to be strategic to get the best price. For example, if you set the price a hair under market value, this will often attract more buyers. It will also leave some wiggle room for buyers to begin bidding over the asking price. “There are actually two strategies in a seller’s market,” explains Syrota. “The first is to price at or slightly below fair market value and let buyers get into a bidding war to push up the price. The second is to price about three to four per cent above fair market value and wait for an offer to come in.

You will likely get close to the same price either way.”

5. Consider Early Offers Sometimes a buyer comes forward in the first week with a great offer and the seller turns it down thinking better offers will come, but they don’t materialize. In fact, the sellers often never even get the same offer again.

“Think twice before turning down the first offer,” warns Syrota. “The first offer is often the best because there is plenty of excitement around brand new listings and buyers will offer their top price in an effort to beat out the competition. Once the new listing excitement has passed and showings slow down, buyers may feel they have more bargaining power, so they may offer less than their top dollar.”

6. Don’t Get Greedy Have you noticed that even in this seller’s market there are some houses that languish on the market? That’s because those sellers set

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Broker of Record

A track record of excellence

their price too high. Buyers know the market and they will not be duped into paying too much.

“Once a high-priced house sits on the market for over a month, buyers lose interest,” explains Syrota. “They may even begin to think that if the house hasn’t sold there must be something wrong with it. It’s a type of crowd mentality – buyers want to buy properties that everyone else wants.”

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7. Capitalize on “New Listing Hysteria” If your home is priced right, you will be able to take advantage of what’s known in the industry as ‘new listing hysteria’ which, in this hot market, could help you sell your home in the first week.

“When a new listing comes on the market, particularly in areas such as central Collingwood or Thornbury, there is an initial hysteria as buyers swarm the property,” explains Syrota. “If the property is reasonably priced, this could lead to a bidding war. If there are no offers by the end of the first week, chances are your home is priced too high and buyers have moved on.”

8. Hire an Experienced Realtor Realtors aren’t smarter than you, but they are trained in real estate law and know how to generate and manage offers in a way that is strategic, legal and will get you the best price. Realtors know the game – the market, strategies, considerations and process – and they can use that knowledge to your advantage.

“Once a high-priced house sits on the market for over a month, buyers lose interest.”

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A great realtor can make the difference between an acceptable offer and a truly profitable offer. “For most people your home is your largest asset, so use your realtor’s experience to help price, stage and market your home,” says Syrota. “Lean on their experience to handle multiple offers, avoid pitfalls, and include clauses or conditions in your offer to protect you.”

9. Assess Each Offer Before you toast to receiving a great offer, take the time to look it over carefully, paying close attention to the details outlined in the offer. Before you accept any offer, do your due diligence; make sure the details are all in order to prevent any unwelcome surprises that could cause the deal to fall through.

If you receive multiple offers, don’t just look at which offer is highest; there may be other factors that make one offer more attractive than the others, such as financing preapproval, deposit amount, lack of conditions, closing date, etc. It’s important to assess, with your realtor, each of the offers to ensure that you are choosing the best offer that meets your needs.

There are definitely worse things you could do than sell your home in a super hot seller’s market, but it’s important to be prepared, keep a cool head and remain realistic. If you plan and execute your strategy, you could even surpass your expectations for a speedy and profitable sale. ❧

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2.

Do Away With Conditions “Buyers like conditions,” says Thompson. “It’s a chance for them to have a home inspection, check with their bank, sell their previous home and decide if this is the right home for them. But in a seller’s market there is no time for this.”

When you are competing with other offers, you have to assume that those other offers will be condition-free. If you want to have a chance of winning, you have to have as few conditions as possible, and preferably none. “As a buyer you have to have your funds available to make the purchase and you may want to bring a home inspector or builder with you when you view the home,” advises Thompson. “That way you can make the offer without any conditions.” An offer with no conditions is stronger and has more chance of success.

TH E

WINNING BID How to make the best offer in today’s competitive market ealing with competing offers is a challenge that buyers in Toronto and other large markets have been grappling with for years, but it’s a new phenomenon in Southern Georgian Bay. With a greater pool of buyers for a smaller number of homes available for sale these days, it is more likely that several buyers will make an offer on the same home at the same time. It can be nerve-racking to make an offer only to find out you are in a bidding war with other buyers, but there are some strategies you can employ to make your best offer and have a better chance of winning the war.

1.

Go in High!

“Many different tactics can make the difference between buying a home and missing out, but really it usually comes down to money,” says Blair Thompson of Remax Four Seasons Realty. “The highest bid usually gets the house. I would like to say there is more to it, but enough money will always win you the property.”

Gerry Wayland of Remax at Blue Realty agrees. “Offer your highest price and make it attractive, maybe a bit above list price,” he advises.

“Ask your agent for a comparative market analysis to determine pricing. Sometimes sellers deliberately set a price below comparable sales in an effort to generate multiple offers, so paying a little extra doesn’t necessarily mean you are paying over market value.”

In a world where competing offers can go well over asking price, there is little room for negotiation. Low-balling is simply not an option; you need to go in strong. Winning the day means knowing your upper limit and making sure you have all the information and preparation possible to make a strong, qualified and educated offer.

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3.

Get Mortgage Preapproval Being prequalified for a mortgage is not the same as being preapproved. Prequalification means your mortgage lender has looked at your total income and debt and provided a rough idea of how much you would qualify to borrow. Preapproval takes this a step further; the mortgage lender reviews the application and agrees to provide you with the funds at a set interest rate. While neither is a guarantee of being approved for the mortgage loan, a preapproval is considered a stronger indication of access to mortgage financing.

“To stand out, ask your lender for a loan preapproval letter, which is different than a prequalified letter,” advises Wayland. “Being preapproved makes you a stronger buyer in the seller’s eyes.”

4.

Tell a Story Everybody loves a good story, and these days your story could make the difference between buying a house and missing out.

“During the offer presentation, don’t have your agent just show up with your offer; make sure they come prepared with your personal background, family details and anything else you think the sellers would want to know about you,” says Thompson. “Even though our area is growing rapidly, in many ways we are still a small town, and a family picture may win you the property.”

5.

Be Flexible on Closing Next to price, closing date is arguably the most important part of your offer but is often overlooked.

“Some sellers want a quick closing, some want a later date and some would like a specific day to coincide with their plans,” explains Thompson. “If you can find out what the seller wants in terms of closing, then your offer, which might be very similar in price to other offers, just moved into first place because of this information.”

Wayland adds it’s also a good idea to extend the buyers’ moving date to after closing. “Cut the sellers some slack by giving them two to three days to move out after closing, without expecting compensation,” he recommends.

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8.

Make Time Your Friend Offers to purchase property normally have an irrevocable date and time – the date and time before which the offer cannot be revoked by the buyer. Going in with a killer offer and setting a short irrevocable time puts pressure on the seller to accept your offer before other competing offers start pouring in.

“In a normal market it is not uncommon for this time frame to be 24 hours, but in a seller’s market you cannot afford to give the seller that much time,” says Thompson. “It always varies but sometimes you have to be very aggressive with this.”

9.

Hire an Experienced Realtor

“Many different tactics can make the difference between buying a home and missing out, but really it usually comes down to money.”

BLAIR THOMPSON, REMAX FOUR SEASONS REALTY

6.

Wow Them with the Deposit In hot housing markets where competing offers are involved, a larger deposit is sometimes seen as a more attractive aspect of an offer and may be an important factor for the sellers in determining which offer they will choose to accept.

“The larger the deposit, the more serious the seller will think the buyer is,” notes Thompson. “There is no rule as to how much a deposit should be. My suggestion is to pick a dollar amount that is a hard amount to walk away from.”

7.

Know How Many You’re Up Against The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) has a new rule that requires listing agents to disclose the number of written, signed offers received for a particular property.

“It’s always nice to know how many different parties are interested in the same home you are,” says Thompson. However, agents are not required to release any details regarding competing offers or identify the people who made the offers, and agents may not claim a competing offer has been received if there is no signed offer.

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Today’s market is simply too competitive to try to “go it alone” as a buyer. You need an experienced, savvy realtor with a clear understanding of the local market to help you navigate the challenges of a potential multiple offer scenario.

“You don’t have to do everything they say, but it’s nice to have someone giving you suggestions and letting you decide the best option for you.”

10.

Prepare for Bully Offers In today’s competitive market, it is common for sellers to set a specific date for buyers to submit offers on a property. This allows the seller to go over all of the offers at one time, compare them and get a better idea of how much buyers may be willing to pay. A “bully offer” (also known as a pre-emptive offer) is an offer that is made before the offer date initially set by the seller(s) and their agent.

“Generally, but not necessarily, bully offers present a sum higher than the asking price, and are submitted by competitive buyers with a serious interest in the listed property,” explains Wayland. “While the term ‘bully’ can carry a negative connotation, bully offers are legal and, in some cases, may even be beneficial for both the buyer and seller.”

The best way of knowing whether or not to make a bully offer is to ask your realtor. “They have the experience and expertise to be able to read the situation and figure out when to time submitting your offer on a property,” says Wayland. The same advice applies to sellers, who should check with their agent before setting an offer date, and before choosing to entertain any offers that come in earlier.”

The multiple offer process is fraught with complex details and strategies. Jumping into the fray is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a reality in today’s market where competing buyers are bidding on the few homes that are available. With a lot of pre-planning and preparation, a knowledgeable realtor, a solid offer and nerves of steel, you can come away with the prize: a new home.

“My advice would be to take your time, think it through, do not succumb to the pressure, and with the help of your experienced and competent realtor, make a strong, well-thought-out and well-drafted offer,” says Thompson. ❧

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sk anyone in Southern Georgian Bay who has anything to do with residential real estate and they will tell you that 2016 was a record year for home sales, and that demand for homes – both resale and new – will definitely continue throughout 2017.

This opinion is borne out by the record numbers of residential development projects currently in the review or approval stages in municipalities across the region, from Wasaga Beach in the east to Owen Sound in the west.

To what extent has the lack of resale inventory affected the new home market? What types of homes are being built and what features are buyers looking for? How will our towns be changing over the next few years? On The Bay spoke with the planning departments of the region’s municipalities, as well as several local developers involved with new residential projects to get a sense of the residential growth in Southern Georgian Bay. From a municipal perspective, the planning departments interviewed for this article all reported a common phenomenon: significant increases in the number of development projects in process and in the dollar value of new residential construction projects compared to previous years.

The Blue Mountains In 2016, The Blue Mountains issued a total of 563 building permits, up from 464 in 2015. Of these, the number of dwelling units (196) doubled the numbers experienced in previous years. At the time of this writing, Blue Mountains director of planning and development Michael Benner estimates that there are well over 600 units “in the queue.”

“Developers are scrambling to get to market and we’re scrambling to get their projects approved,” says Benner. “Meanwhile, we have a number of subdivision plans that have made it through the approval process over the years, and are approaching the construction phase. The market today is good for new home sales.”

Who is buying in The Blue Mountains, and where are they coming from? According to its 2016 Growth Management Strategy, the town is becoming one of the most desirable locations in Ontario for active people who are retired or planning for retirement, with 60 per cent of its current residents aged 55-plus. And, because of its impressive fourseason recreational amenities, the town’s population consists of more seasonal residents than permanent.

Notable residential projects in the planning stages include Thornbury Meadows, an approved 85-unit land lease development of detached, semi-detached and townhomes located at Napier and Victoria Streets in Thornbury; and Lora Bay Heights subdivision – 24 townhomes, available in two or three bedroom designs ranging from 1,500 to 1,800 square feet, priced from the low $500,000s.

A brand new application was also recently received by The Blue Mountains planning department for affordable residences at the corner of Lakeshore Road and Grey Road 19 near Craigleith. Developer Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities has applied for a community of 208

life lease single family homes and townhomes priced 30 per cent lower than the average cost ($400,000) of a home in the town. Starting in the low $300,000s and geared towards active retirees, the new community will be situated on 64 acres of land including green space, trails, a pond and lookout points.

“Homeowners will be able to leverage their land lease cost with a beautiful, modern home including many standard features, views of the water and the hills, and generous green space, all within walking distance of the Bay,” says Rob Tallis, Parkbridge’s vice president of sales and marketing.

“Many of us live in the area,” Tallis adds. “We saw this property as a great opportunity to get a project like this going here, so we bought it in 2016. These homes will be perfect for active families looking for an affordable home in the region or seniors looking for a second home.

There’s not enough inventory in The Blue Mountains under $500,000, so our price point will appeal to both types of buyers.” Parkbridge aims to be ready to take reservations by the end of this year and begin construction by the spring of 2018.

On the higher end of the residential development price scale, a new expansion project, the Private Residences of the Georgian Bay Club, has worked its way through The Blue Mountains planning approval process.

It will consist of 56 luxury townhomes with views of the Bay and the golf course - ranging in size from 1,900 to 3,500 square feet and priced from $1.2 to $2.7 million. Construction is now under way on eight of the townhomes, with more units ready to break ground this spring.

“Our market is primarily active people from the GTA who are retired or planning to retire,” says Georgian Bay Club developer Larry Dunn of Dunn Capital Corporation. “Many of them are cashing out. They want to replace their GTA home with a nicer, high-end residential property.”

Commenting on the current and future state of residential development in the entire region, Dunn notes that the lack of resale homes has had an effect on new units as well as vacant land. “We have sold more serviced land in the past eight months than we have in the last three years,” he says. “As the number one spot for active retirees in Ontario, we have everything they’re looking for. And the low Canadian dollar makes it more attractive to buy here instead of Florida or Arizona.”

Luxury townhomes aside, Dunn identifies two residential options that are and will continue to be in highest demand in the region: bungalows with spacious great rooms, large kitchens and main floor master bedrooms; and condos as second or third homes. “In the next 10 years, I predict that Southern Georgian Bay will see a boom like we’ve never seen before.”

THE DEVELOPMENT PICTURE Hundreds of new residential projects are currently in various stages of planning review, approval or construction.

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Bordering The Blue Mountains to the east, the Town of Collingwood is also experiencing unprecedented development activity. According to Nancy Farrer, director of building and planning services, the number of new homes in the planning process increased from 141 in 2015 to 402 last year, with construction values in 2016 almost triple the previous year at $115 million. “We’ve never experienced growth like this before,” she exclaims.

Among the many residential projects currently in process, Farrer gives a few notable examples: 345 units in the Eden Oak development at Hurontario Street and Poplar Sideroad; 302 units in Mair Mills Village on Mountain Road; 57 new townhomes in the Riverside subdivision (a property which, after sitting vacant for almost 12 years, has been quickly brought to market to meet the current demand for housing); and The Anex, a one-square-block downtown school heritage site which developers hope to convert to a community of 18 luxury semi-detached and townhomes. (An application is currently in place for two semidetached model homes on the site.)

According to Farrer, two primary demographics are currently vying for housing in the town: retirees and young families. “Collingwood has been designated a ‘primary settlement’ in Ontario’s Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, with an assigned population of 33,400 by 2031,” she notes. The town’s current population is approaching 22,000.

“Right now, demand for housing is driving up real estate prices, and our schools are very crowded. In the future, we will see more demand for schools, parks, and trails in our growing neighbourhoods. In addition to initiating our Waterfront Master Plan, we are working diligently to make sure that we have the infrastructure and facilities in place to accommodate future residential development.”

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The New Shipyards is an established residential community adjacent to Collingwood harbour that has succeeded in appealing to buyers looking for maintenance-free living within walking distance to downtown. Last fall, the developer released 16 of 28 bungalow townhomes featuring 1,500 square feet of main floor space including two bedrooms and two baths, with a double garage to accommodate ‘toys.’

The first offering, scheduled for occupancy this spring, is currently 70 per cent sold. The remaining 12 units will be launched in April, with occupancy scheduled for the fall of this year.

Shipyards director of sales Tara Parsons believes there is currently a pent-up demand among buyers 50-plus for this type of residence – provided that it is reasonably priced. “It’s the right product for this demographic, and developers are right on it,” she says. Parsons gives full credit to the Town of Collingwood for its approved $50 million

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On the residential development side, Wasaga Beach experienced almost double the growth in number of units and construction value in 2016 compared to the year before. waterfront project, which will eventually include trail connections, boardwalks, enhanced boating and swimming facilities, waterfront shops and restaurants, and an expanded amphitheatre to feature concerts, plays and events every week.

Meanwhile, another local developer has grand plans in the very near future to woo affluent 50-plus buyers wishing to be close to downtown Collingwood and its amenities, current and future. The approved project, tentatively named Perfect World Collingwood, will be a sixstorey, 130-unit luxury condo building featuring “exclusive suites and penthouses” on three acres of prime downtown waterfront.

Wasaga Beach While Collingwood is gearing up for increasing residential development and its new waterfront project, the neighbouring Town of Wasaga Beach has even loftier plans for its burgeoning population.

At press time, plans to build a completely new downtown/main street connected to a revitalized and redeveloped beach area are scheduled to go to council for final approval.

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In Wasaga Beach, plans to build a completely new downtown/main street connected to a revitalized and redeveloped beach area are scheduled to go to council for final approval.

“Wasaga Beach started as a cottage area, and we never had a Main Street like most towns do in Ontario,” says manager of planning development review Doug Herron. “We have been actively pursuing this important project over the past year, consulting with the public and engaging consultants to create a vision of how it should be developed.

It is perfect for our town, appealing to both our citizen and tourist populations.”

If approved, the Main Street Master Plan will feature a town square “about the size of the one in downtown Kitchener,” with enough space to accommodate 10,000 people and plenty of parking nearby. Connected to Main Street via a bridge across the river, revitalized Beach Areas 1 and 2 – the “lungs of Wasaga Beach” – would appeal mainly to tourists.

This area would include a new beachfront development containing a mix of residential and commercial units, a 180-room “boutique-style” hotel, entertainment venues and possibly a casino, which Council has accepted as a potential site.

On the residential development side, Wasaga Beach experienced almost double the growth in number of units and construction value in 2016 compared to the year before. “In the past ten years, we have seen much growth, especially with single family homes in subdivisions,” says Herron. “But there’s a change in the marketplace now. Most of our large lot greenfield sites are built out, and buyers are looking for condos and townhomes with less maintenance. Fortunately, we have many mediumdensity infill properties available for development.”

With Ontario’s Growth Plan forecasting a population of 27,000 by 2031 for Wasaga Beach, the town’s upcoming Official Plan will be identifying four to five “nodal areas” for intensification, including more apartments and townhomes.

“The many projects coming on stream include a mix of single detached homes and townhomes, appealing to both retired Snowbirds looking for a summer residence and young families, mostly from nearby communities like Barrie and Innisfil,” says Herron.

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Clearview South of Wasaga Beach, the Township of Clearview is also experiencing an increase in development activity. “Things are ramping up,” says Mara Burton, director of community services. “We are really starting to see movement as new draft plans and older plans are coming to the fore. Compared to a year ago, we’re seeing serious intent to register and break ground, and we’re ready to help push projects through.”

According to Burton, a handful of new projects will be starting construction in 2017 across the Township, including The Meadows of Creemore, a new mid-rise condo development geared to retirees with suites up to 1,200 square feet, starting from the mid $200,000s.

Over in the bustling community of Stayner, on Airport Road south of Highway 26, GTA developer Granite Condominiums is building something different to attract both retired downsizers and younger families from Barrie, Alliston, Orangeville, Brampton and Mississauga.

Stayner West will be a collection of 64 modern, urban-looking townhomes in a new community close to downtown amenities, featuring

“The Municipality of Meaford has great plans over the next few years.

As to our downtown, we’re planning a major revitalization which will include intensification projects and accommodation use.”

ROB ARMSTRONG, MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD

a park connected to an existing trail system. A model home is scheduled to be complete this spring.

Developer Doug Gray calls Stayner an “up and coming” Southern Georgian Bay community. “It’s a nice town – a little gem in the centre of the action, close to Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Barrie and the GTA, but not as expensive to live in.” Stayner West townhomes will range in size from 1,300 to 1,600 square feet and will be priced from $300,000 to $400,000.

Meaford Meaford, considered by many to be the next frontier of residential development by virtue of its relative affordability and proximity to Blue Mountain, has seen the growth of several new residential community projects over the past few years. Rob Armstrong, the municipality’s director of development and environmental services, does not see the trend slowing down any time soon.

Several projects are in the works. Oak Meadows, a new development on the site of a former trailer park at Victoria and Albert Streets, is building a variety of residences including thirty-six townhome rental units, fourplexes and life lease duplexes – all currently in various stages of review, approval or construction. According to Rob Armstrong, the Bruce County developer cannot keep up with demand.

Other Meaford projects currently in the planning process or coming

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THERACURMIN™ soon include a five-storey, 70-unit condominium development on Collingwood Street opposite Market Square; another five-storey condo project on the site of the Royal Canadian Legion; and Pinehurst, a 27 vacant land condominium development on Highway 26 across from the municipal water plant, containing single family detached bungalows.

Who is buying, and what will Meaford look like in the coming years?

“In a recent strategic planning session, we identified two primary groups: retirees from the GTA and Kitchener-Waterloo, and young families who work in the region but can’t afford to live in The Blue Mountains or Collingwood,” says Armstrong, adding that townhome or apartmenttype condos in the $200,000 to $300,000 range are most in demand.

“The Municipality of Meaford has great plans over the next few years. We’re building a new kindergarten to grade 12 ‘super school’ to replace three existing schools. There is a lot of interest in purchasing and developing the Knight’s waterfront property, which would fit nicely with our mixed-use waterfront plan including residential, accommodation and resort-type retail. As to our downtown, we’re planning a major revitalization which will include intensification projects and accommodation use.”

Owen Sound As with other Southern Georgian Bay municipalities, the City of Owen Sound also reports a busy real estate market with record sales in 2016. “We have a lot of new residential applications in the works,” says director of community services Pamela Coulter. “Two large subdivisions that we are really excited about are inching towards draft plan approval.

There’s the RCA development on a former industrial site on Bayshore Road with great views of the Bay. Developer Northridge Properties plans to build 140 to 180 single and semi detached homes, 47 to 74 townhomes, and a 100- to 150-unit apartment building on the site.”

The other project is the Red Hawk development on 8th Street across the road from the hospital, says Coulter. “This part of town has never had municipal services. Following an environmental assessment, council voted to extend services to this property. When complete, the project will include 265 apartment units, 37 single family homes and 65 townhomes. These two developments are huge for Owen Sound.”

In addition to the suburban developments, Coulter notes a number of “infill” projects that are planned in Owen Sound’s downtown core, including the Sydenham 32-unit condo building, Centre Suites – a former professional building converted to 32 residential condos – and a 90-unit non-profit housing complex. “Our residential development activity illustrates change and a new day dawning on our beautiful city. We’re very excited about the future.”

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THE GTA FACTOR A recent article in Ontario Home Builder Magazine, the voice of the province’s building industry, highlighted some interesting facts (with quotes from regional economists and industry experts) about the current state of new residential real estate in Ontario:

• Housing starts in the province will taper off over the next two years.

• By 2018, the GTA market will start cooling off more than other parts of the province, with communities bordering the GTA holding up better.

• Single-detached starts will slow in 2017 and drop further in 2018, but multi-unit starts should increase slightly next year.

• With provincial policies limiting the supply of serviced land for development, the GTA will continue to suffer from lack of supply (inventory as of early November 2016 was less than 2,000 units.)

• With pent-up demand, builders will need to start thinking about how to attract millennials, who want nice finishes and fibre optics, and are going to want to grow food on their deck or balcony.

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Last year we performed 4,844 surgeries at CGMH. Expanding our surgical equipment expands our capabilities to care for patients with life threatening illnesses or injuries. It broadens the range of procedures and positive outcomes at CGMH. The right tools today means having the opportunity to save someone’s life.

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ON THE BAY

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Looking Ahead From east to west in Southern Georgian Bay, municipalities and developers are rushing to push projects to market to meet a growing demand for residential housing. Is the phenomenon a “wild west show” as an acquaintance of this writer has suggested, or is development being carefully and strategically planned to appeal to buyers while accommodating the future needs of the region? On The Bay consulted with a local residential development expert for an opinion.

Christine Brennan is a director of the Georgian Triangle Development Institute (GTDI), a non-profit organization representing the region’s residential real estate development industry. She is also president of Windstone Real Estate, a brokerage specializing in residential development sales and marketing with several projects in the region.

“All across Ontario, real estate prices are beginning to stabilize, but I believe they won’t moderate in Southern Georgian Bay,” says Brennan. “Why? Because people are continually attracted to the relative affordability and recreational opportunities we have here. The regional average price for a single family home in the western region of the Georgian Triangle is $372,000. Compare that to close to $1 million in the GTA.” Brennan says conditions are ripe for developers in the region, who are confident in pushing projects through because of the strengthening market. “The single largest new home buyer demographic is boomers both from the GTA and local downsizers,” she says. “They’re looking for maintenance-free open concept bungalows with main floor living and two functional items that builders must meet - garage/storage space and ancillary living space for visiting friends and family.”

While growing demand for new housing in the region is putting upward pressure on prices and impacting affordability, rentals are in

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short supply, Brennan notes. As a result, she foresees more purpose-built rental products coming on the market, appealing to boomers.

This demographic aside, Christine Brennan predicts that another group of buyers, millennials from the GTA, will begin to start looking to settle in our region in the coming years. “They are being priced out of the GTA. We are seeing a general shift in the workplace, where people can work remotely from anywhere. And young families want a better quality of life,” she says.

Brennan encourages developers to look down the road and start making plans to provide affordable product that will appeal to millennials. “Affordability and flexibility with deposit payments will be the key,” she stresses. “While a single-level home may be important to older buyers, resulting in a larger building footprint and higher cost, younger buyers are fine with two-storey living, which keeps building costs down.” ❧

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NEW 7 questions to ask before purchasing a new build home or condo In today’s market, with record-few resale homes available to buy, more and more buyers are turning to new home developments. Buying a new home directly from the builder, whether a condo, townhouse or detached home, offers benefits in terms of customization, energy efficiency and maintenance. However, there can also be challenges to buying a new home, and buyers need to understand the difference.

Below are some of the questions to consider if you are in the market for a new home.

1.

What is the builder’s reputation?

This may be the most important research you can do before buying directly from a builder or developer. Tarion, the private corporation that administers new home warranties in Ontario, is a great resource. Tarion’s Ontario Builder Directory (www.tarion.com) allows you to check any prior home, subdivision or condominium project the company has built in the past and see how many homes a particular company has built in the last 10 years. The directory will also show any complaints made to Tarion against the builder and any awards the builder has received.

Better still, visit prior neighbourhoods the builder has built and talk to the homeowners to find out if there were any problems and if the builder was diligent in fixing problems with the home. You can also ask if the home was delivered on time and if the homeowners received substantially what they were promised.

2.

Are you pre-qualified for a mortgage?

Make sure you are pre-qualified for ALL of the costs associated with the purchase. When you buy a new home or condo, the price quoted to you in the sales office will be the base price of the home. If you order any upgrades, find out exactly how much extra you will be paying for those upgrades so they can be included in your mortgage pre-qualification.

Be aware of the additional charges you will also have to pay.

“Closing costs beyond legal fees include additional items such as Tarion enrolment fees, utility meter installation fees, development charges and education or tax levies, additional tree planting and or landscaping,” notes Tara Parsons of Royal LePage Trinity Realty, who also represents the Shipyards development. Be sure to ask about all additional fees and charges so you aren’t hit with a huge bill on closing that you weren’t prepared – and aren’t pre-qualified – to cover.

In addition to closing costs, it’s also important to budget for ongoing costs, adds Parsons. “Do you have a realistic all-in budget for your purchase? If you are considering purchasing a condominium, make sure that condo fees are factored into the monthly cost equation,” she advises.

3.

Does the purchase price include HST?

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Yes, new home buyers have to pay HST! HST applies on all new homes. If the home will be your principal residence, there are rebates available, but keep in mind that those rebates are usually paid to the builder. In most cases, HST will be included in the purchase price, but it’s best to ask. If you assume the HST is included and it’s not, you could end up paying an additional $40,000, $60,000 or more depending on the price of the home. “Under disclosure, most things should be on the price sheet, things like taxes, condo fees, etc.,” says Parsons.

If the home will be a secondary residence, rental property or investment property, it’s best to see an accountant or a tax lawyer to find out how the HST will affect your purchase.

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How much are deposits, and when are they due?

When you are buying a new home before it is built, you will be expected to pay a deposit upon signing the agreement of purchase and sale, and additional deposits will be due over the course of construction.

“Deposits prior to or throughout construction generally range from 15 to 20 per cent of the purchase price and are payable over four to six months from date of purchase prior to occupancy or closing,” explains Parsons. “These deposits can be quite substantial, so it’s important to have funds available to cover them.”

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What are the provisions for possible delays?

Tarion sets the guidelines for maximum delays and notification parameters, which can be found at www.tarion.com. “If there are delays, this could impact your budget and affect important timelines,” says Parsons. “You should be prepared for the possibility of extensions.”

In some cases, particularly where delays and extensions have occurred, a buyer may not be able to close on the sale once the home is finally completed, or might want to sell the home prior to closing if its value has increased substantially over the period of construction. In these cases a buyer might want an assignment – a transaction that allows another buyer to take over the original buyer’s rights and obligations of the agreement of purchase and sale. In other words, an assignment clause allows the buyer of the home to sell it before taking possession of it.

“Assignments must be negotiated at the original time of purchase, as a developer would sooner have the property back and reap the benefits of the increase themselves,” notes Parsons. “Does the developer allow for an assignment of your purchase to a different buyer prior to closing?

Most builders do not allow assignments, as you could effectively be in competition with a future phase release by being able to sell your agreement to someone else prior to closing. Some developers allow an assignment of the agreement for a fee.”

6.

What are the standard features and what upgrade options are available?

Consider your budget for upgrades as well as structural changes and

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Meaford Mortgage Exchange Both of these houses are listed for 1.5 million dollars.

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selections. You need to know which features are standard, which are upgrades, and how much each upgrade will cost.

Items that are standard for one builder might be considered upgrades by another builder, so make sure you are comparing apples to apples when it comes to the final price of the home.

“Many of The Shipyards’ standard features, for example, would be upgrades with another builder,” says Parsons. “So another builder’s base price might be $460,000, but once you add in all of the upgrades like hardwood floors and nine-foot ceilings, you might be looking at closer to $600,000. You could end up paying a much higher price in the end.”

Those upgrades in finishes or structural changes will also have to be paid before closing – usually at the time of selection. “Confirming the timing of selections and structural changes will assist you in budgeting accordingly,” advises Parsons. However, she notes that some builders do offer bonuses upon signing. “In our case, for example, we did a bonus package of $10,000 in upgrades we know people typically like. Other builders will allow you to get a better price on structural upgrades such as a finished room and bathroom in the basement.”

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“Deposits prior to or throughout construction generally range from 15 to 20 per cent of the purchase price”.

TARA PARSONS, ROYAL LEPAGE TRINITY REALTY

It may be tempting to handle some upgrades yourself or through a different contractor to save money, but beware: your home warranty will only cover items installed by the builder.

“It is important to have the builder complete the finishes in order to ensure the work is warrantied,” says Parsons. “You might think you can get hardwood flooring at Home Depot and have your brother-in-law install it, but the Tarion home warranty only warranties the flooring when it is installed by the builder.”

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7.

What conditions, if any, are allowed?

“When purchasing a resale home you are able to add conditions into the agreement of purchase, but on a new build home purchase there are usually no conditions accepted, or if any, only financing,” warns Parsons.

“It’s quite common today to have no conditions whatsoever. That’s why it’s crucial to know where you sit as far as financing goes. A signed builder’s agreement, once accepted by the builder, is firm.”

The one exception is new condo purchases. “When purchasing a condominium you do have a 10-day cooling off period, which gives you the opportunity to take documentation to a real estate lawyer,” explains Parsons.

By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can enjoy the benefits of buying a new home while avoiding potential pitfalls.

“Buying a newly constructed home can offer peace of mind, knowing everything is new and reflects your tastes and a location to suit your lifestyle,” says Parsons. “Purchasers often find a new home to be a good value and investment.” ❧

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Choosing a Builder

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CUSTOM What to consider before building your dream home uying property and building a custom home is a great way to get exactly the dream home you want. However, before starting down this road, it’s important to be educated and prepared in order to make the process run smoothly and stress free.

Below are some of the elements to consider:

Where to Build “Location, location, location is a truism in real estate and it applies both on the micro and macro level,” says Steve Simon of Lifestyles North. “Once you have decided on the geographic area you want to live in, you must further decide on a neighbourhood and then lastly, the location within the neighbourhood. Work, friends, family and many other factors will impact the largest area question and then things get more specific.”

Some prefer to build a home that is on a private lot, while others want a sense of community; some might prefer a large lot while others might want a smaller, more low-maintenance lot size. Access to activities such as boating, skiing, hiking, biking or golf might be important to some, while others may look for proximity to healthcare, schools, shopping or restaurants.

“Once you narrow things down, the actual lot you choose is very important,” notes Simon. “Aspects to consider are the option of a walk-out basement, traffic noise, access to trails or green space, existing tree coverage that can be maintained, services such as municipal water, sewers and natural gas.” Cell phone coverage and availability of high-speed Internet might also be important factors to consider.

Even if it seems that a particular lot checks all the boxes on your list, it’s important to ask questions so you can get a sense of whether you will be able to get full enjoyment from your home for years to come. For example, is there a chance that a major street could end up adjacent to your property? Is the land around your property slated for development in the future? If you’re looking for a “private” or “semi-private” lifestyle, it’s up to you to find out if it’s likely to stay that way.

“Check the town official plan and consult with your local realtor to make sure the future plans will not effect you and that the zoning will permit the type of house you wish to build,” advises Kevin Woolham of Century 21 Millennium. “Proposed developments or windmills nearby could greatly impact your enjoyment of the home.”

Finally, choose land that is appropriate for the type of house you want to build. “I regularly see homes that are built on inappropriate lots, which have a problem selling because the seller has over-invested in a grand home on an inferior lot,” says Woolham. “My rule of thumb is that the land should cost no less than one-quarter of the total build price.”

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“Custom homebuilders will offer a range of finishes and pricing and although they may specialize in a given area or development, they offer the ultimate in flexibility in area, design and finishes,” says Simon. “Most custom homebuilders have a specialization around a design aesthetic, price range or area. Generally the higher volume builders will have lower overhead and pricing, whereas the custom homebuilder has to recoup the cost of spending hundreds of hours one on one with the purchaser choosing a design and finishings.”

As you move toward the custom end of the spectrum you will be spending a lot of time with the builder, so you need to be sure this is someone you want to work with for a year or more to build your custom home.

“Check several references on your builder and expect to hear one or two less positive experiences,” advises Simon. “Dig deeper into those to find out why. The biggest complication in building a custom home is the client who constantly makes changes throughout the project. You are likely to find a correlation between number of changes and a strained relationship.”

Pricing Many factors affect the price of a vacant lot, the most obvious being location and size. However, there are several other aspects to consider when buying a lot to build your custom home. Is the water from a utility company or from a well? Is waste handled by sewers or a septic system? Are hydro and telephone service easily accessible? Are there gas lines, or will you have to install a propane tank? Are there any zoning or building requirements or restrictions? All of these can greatly affect the final cost of your home, so if you find a great lot and the price seems low, ask questions to make sure you won’t have to pay more later in order to get the services you need.

When it comes to building your custom home, keep in mind that whereas builders with standard designs and finishes will give you the greatest cost certainty going into a project, custom homebuilders will offer a varying degree of cost certainty.

“Their flexibility in allowing you to make changes through the project can add significantly to the end price,” notes Simon. “Be certain you understand how changes to the design or finishings will be handled and make sure you track and understand the consequences of every change.”

Landscaping It may seem counterintuitive to think about landscaping before you design your new home, but many a custom home build has turned into a nightmare because landscaping was overlooked.

Most homebuilders provide little or no landscaping, which means you may need a separate contractor to do this part of the work. In the case of a custom home on a private lot, trees may need to be cleared, berms or fences may need to be built, a great deal of landscaping may be required and a long driveway may need to be installed – any of which will add to the cost of your custom home. “Check to see what if any municipal services are available and the cost to have them brought to the building site,” says Woolham. “Long driveways and houses set back from the road can also add significant unforeseen costs.”

If you plan on adding a pool, stone patios, water features or large trees, keep in mind that these require heavy equipment, which should be brought in before any other landscaping is done.

“Know what you are getting and understand the costs involved in

contracting to have what you ultimately want,� advises Simon. “Plan on spending at least another 10 per cent above the cost of your home.�

Choosing a Design

Taking you beyond the numbers Providing tailored accounting and tax advice to meet your specific needs in the following areas: Financial Statement Preparation

Unlike a spec home or resale home that make you adapt to someone else’s design, a custom home is your “blank canvas� to design from the ground up for your unique needs and taste. You decide the layout of the rooms, the style of the finishes and the quality of the building materials. But there are a lot of variables to designing a home that suits your needs and taste. While some may want to hire an architect and create a home that is unlike anything else, others opt for a more standard design and let the finishes and details reflect their personal style. “One custom homebuilder once said that a home is just a series of boxes that can be aligned in many different ways,� says Simon. “While this is true, functionality and the desire for certain design esthetics often drive some uniformity of design.�

In Southern Georgian Bay the trend is toward open concept great rooms with high ceilings, master bedroom suites, laundry rooms and dens all on the main floor. “There are only so many ways to arrange these boxes and you can

Corporate & Personal Income Tax Returns

Management Consulting

Tax Planning & Business Reorganizations

Business Start-Ups

Bookkeeping & Payroll

Lil Rourke, CPA, CGA 69 First St., Unit B, Collingwood 705-980-0180

In Southern Georgian Bay the trend is toward open concept great rooms with high ceilings, master bedroom suites, laundry rooms and dens all on the main floor.

expect to see a great deal of similarity of design,� says Simon. “There are many resources out there to help you choose a basic layout that provides the functionality and esthetic you desire. Spend some time researching before moving to costly architectural drawings.�

That’s not to say you should “just wing it,� however; there is no substitute for working out a realistic budget and making sure you have everything well thought out and well planned. “Often I find buyers trying to build something they have not completely figured out, and they end up compromising or having to cut short a build, making the end product less valuable than its potential,� says Kevin Woolham.

His final advice: don’t make your custom home so unique that it won’t appeal to other buyers down the road when it comes time to sell. “Don’t build a dream home that only fits your needs. I see a lot of custom homes that suit the seller but need an identical buyer to come along as they do not suit a wide range of buyers.�

In the end, the best guidance for building a custom home – after location, location, location – is plan, plan, plan. If you can work out as many details as possible before turning the first shovelful of soil, you will have fewer headaches during construction and greater enjoyment of your new home after it is built. �

lilrourke@lmrourkecpa.ca www.lmrourkecpa.ca

VIEWS OF CREEMORE HILLS!

All the charm of yesteryear plus all the modern conveniences of today.

Fully renovated Victorian farmhouse sits on 100 rolling acres with swimming pond, barns, woods & tenant farmer working appox. 80 acres. Large open kitchen, dining & family rm. 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths.

Minutes to Mad River Golf Club, Devils Glen Country Club & all the amenities in the charming, vibrant village of Creemore. $1,299,000

RCR Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

RCR Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

BASIA REGAN, Sales Representative

BASIA REGAN

BASIA REGAN

Tel (705) 466-2115 basiaregan@royallepage.ca www.basiaregan.com

ON THE BAY

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YOU LIVE IN SIMCOE GREY FOR A REASON.

Collingwood & Owen Sound

www.vandolders.com

DE V E LO P M E N T

The Masters Collection at Lora Bay comprises 20 units with new sections to come, priced at $650,000 to $1 million.

G UID E

NEW HOMES On The Bay is pleased to present our annual guide to active new home developments in Southern Georgian Bay

Email: sales@terrabrookhomes.ca Website: www.terrabrookhomes.ca

Peaks Ridge

www.11bayst.com

The Edgewater

The Arrowhead Collection

jane@janemoysey.com

The Private Residences at The Georgian Bay Club

www.solcorpdevelopments.com

The Masters Collection at Lora Bay

Blue Horizon

Developer: Reid’s Heritage Homes Location: Lora Bay, Thornbury Offering: Bungalows, two-storeys, bungalows with lofts # of Units: 20; new sections to come Amenities: Golf, two beaches, clubhouse, fitness centre, swimming pool, restaurant, hiking, biking trails, Friday evening community meet-and-greets Price Range: $650,000 - $1 Million Targeting: Active retirees Phone: 705-994-2353 Email: steve@lifestylesnorth.com Website: www.LoraBay.com

BLUE MOUNTAINS Eleven Bay Street

www.bluehorizonluxury.com

Crestview Estates Phase II Developer: Terra Brook Homes Location: Blue Mountain Offering: Chalet-style bungalows, bungalows with lofts and two-storey models, on lots up to 220 ft. deep with views of Blue Mountain # of Units: 37 Amenities: Minutes from skiing, golfing, snowshoeing, cycling, hiking, shopping and fine dining Price Range: Starting in the $600,000s Targeting: Those looking for an active lifestyle

Nipissing Ridge III

Phone: 866-861-5228

www.nipissingridge.ca

www.douggillis.ca

www.privateresatgbc.com

The Residences of Peaks Bay Developer: PB Holdings Limited Location: Hwy. 26 across from the Georgian Peaks Ski Club, between Collingwood and Thornbury Offering: Permit-ready lots # of Units: 24 registered and fully serviced lots in Phase I. Road construction and streetscaping complete. Phase I is almost sold out, with 5 lots remaining for sale as of February 8, 2017. Phase II lots will be available once Phase I has sold out, with a projected release date of Fall 2017.

Amenities: Beachfront access Price Range: From $169,000 to $249,000 per lot Targeting: Retirees, second homes and young professionals Phone: Doug Gillis, 705-444-3853 Email: doug@douggillis.ca www.peaksbay.com

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D E VE LO P ME N T

G UID E

Schoolhouse Ridge www.schoolhouseridge.com

Summit Shores www.summitshores.com

Trail Woods Phase II & III trailwoodsreidsheritagehomes.com

Windfall At Blue Developer: Georgian International Location: Across the road from Blue Mountain Resort and adjacent to Scandinave Spa, The Blue Mountains Offering: Semi-detached two-storey homes, detached two-storey homes and bungalows with lofts. Phase 1 is sold out and currently selling Phase 2. # of Units: Second release of phase 2 offers 20 detached and 34 semi-detached homes. A new release is planned for later this year.

Amenities: Distinctive architecture, 35+ acres of trails, parks and preserved green space, a barn-inspired year-round clubhouse with swimming pool called ‘The Shed’.

Price Range: Semi-detached homes starting from the low $400,000s. Detached bungalows from the low $500,000s. Two-storeys from the mid $500,000s.

Targeting: Families, retirees and secondary homeowners, aged 30 to 60+, looking for BMR-Pottery2017-OTB-Spring-HalfPage.pdf 1 2/23/2017 4:05:34 PM

Email: info@balmoralplace.ca Website: www.balmoralplace.ca

a primary residence, weekend retreat, recreational home or real estate investment Phone: 705-293-0954 Email: sales@WindfallAtBlue.com Website: www.windfallatblue.com

Balmoral Village www.balmoralvillage.ca

Blue Fairway www.bluefairway.ca

COLLINGWOOD

Dwell at Creekside

Anex Collingwood www.anexcollingwood.com

www.devonleighhomes.com

Balmoral Place Retirement Community

Indigo Estates

Developer: MTCO Holdings Inc. Location: 8 & 10 Harbour Street West, Collingwood Offering: Full-service retirement residence and seniors apartments # of Units: 131 units in retirement residence and 49 units in seniors apartments.

Amenities: Heated indoor saltwater therapeutic pool, fitness centre with senior-friendly equipment, sports lounge with licensed pub, games and hobby room, chapel and theatre, library, hair salon, licensed dining room, 24-hour café, activity room with country kitchen, fireplace lounge Price Range: Pricing not finalized at press time Targeting: Seniors 55+ Phone: 705-444-9898

www.indigoestates.ca

Lockhaven www.sunvalehomes.com

Mair Mills Village www.granitehomes.ca

Mountaincroft Developer: Grandview Homes Location: 67 Clark Street, corner of Poplar and High streets, Collingwood Offering: Phase 4 sold out; Phase 5 now selling # of Units: 64 fully detached lots/homes; mix of bungalows, raised bungalows, bungalows with lofts and two-storey plans ranging from 1,270 sq. ft. to 3,650 sq. ft. on 35, 40, 45 and 50-foot wide lots

Fresh, seasonal fare inspired by the flavours and harvests of the Georgian Bay region.

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As the sights and aromas of spring breathe new life into the Escarpment, they also bring new tastes and flavours that we’ve harnessed into our menus.

Visit us and experience the exceptional service that has made The Pottery Restaurant a favourite of local diners and resort guests for years.

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ON THE BAY

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Blue Mountain Resort thepotteryrestaurant.ca 705-443-5509

Crestview Estates (below) offers chalet-style bungalows, while Peaks Bay (bottom) is selling fully serviced lots.

Amenities: Community park, Georgian Trail system, walking distance to downtown, mountain views Price Range: Starting in the $400,000s Targeting: Young families to seasonal and retirees Phone: 705-444-0333 Email: mountaincroftcollingwood@gmail.com Website: www.grandviewhomesnorth.com

The New Shipyards Developer: Fram & Slokker Location: Downtown Collingwood on the harbour Offering: Mackinaw Village Phase 1 & 2.

Bungalow townhomes with rear lane double garages and optional lofts. Main floor 1,200 -1,500 sq. ft. featuring main floor masters, laundry and second bedroom or den; open spacious designs with full unfinished or partially finished basements. Two to four bedroom designs with flex space bedroom(s) and bathroom included in the loft optional plan. Finishes include hardwood throughout the main floor, porcelain tile foyer and bathrooms, granite kitchen counters, stainless kitchen appliances, 9 ft. main floor and vaulted great room ceilings when loft option is selected. Occupancy will be summer and fall of 2017.

Price Range: $569,000 - $729,000 Targeting: 50-plus and families Phone: 705-888-8272 Email: tara@thenewshipyards.com Website: www.thenewshipyards.com

Perfect World www.perfectworldcollingwood.com

Pretty River Estates www.sunvalehomes.com

Pretty River www.briarwoodhomes.ca

Red Maple www.myredmaple.ca

Silver Glen Preserve www.sherwoodhomesltd.com

Windrose Estates Developer: Osler Bluff Estates Inc./ MacPherson Builders Limited Location: Southeast corner of Osler Bluff Road/Grey Road 19 & Sixth Street, Collingwood Offering: Exclusive estate development of just 43 one- to two-acre lots with two model homes on the site to view, The Britannia and The Adelaide. Open weekends from noon until 5:00 p.m.

REGISTER TODAY: 705.444.9898

Celebrate Life With Us Register now at www.balmoralplace.ca Or contact us at www.balmoralplace.ca

Retirement Residence and Seniors Apartments

n Coming Soo

PRESENTATION CENTRE AND MODEL SUITES

Located within Balmoral Village, Collingwood’s only Adult Lifestyle Community. Come discover the freedom of Worry-Free and Maintenance-Free Retirement Living!

8 Harbour Street West, Collingwood

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D E VE LO P ME N T

Balmoral Place Retirement Community will offer 131 units in the retirement residence and 49 seniors apartments.

G UID E

# of Units: 32 one- to two-plus acre, single family detached estate home lots remaining Amenities: Private parkland runs through the site, for all owners to enjoy Price Range: $1,449,900 to $1,754,900 Targeting: Recreational and/or principal residence in an exclusive enclave of estate lots Phone: 705-293-2201 or 705-446-7601 Email: jennifer@macphersonbuilders.com Website: www.windroseestates.ca

CREEMORE

MIDLAND

OWEN SOUND

The Seasons on Little Lake

Centre Suites on 3rd Avenue

Developer: Hanson Development

www.suiteson3.com

Location: 16831 Highway 12 at Sumac Lane,

The Residences of Cobble Beach

Midland Offering: 247-acre master-planned community with over 1,000 townhomes, semi-detached and single family homes from 724 to 1,556 sq. ft. with spacious, open floorplans along Little Lake with a boardwalk along the

Stayner West

lake; 13 km of planned trails connecting to a

www.staynerwest.com

regional network; natural parkland and green space; parks throughout the community; 10,000 sq. ft. Members’ Club with indoor and

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MEAFORD

recreational and meeting rooms; retail area with independent shops and services. Area

WASAGA BEACH Bayside Meadows www.baysidemeadows.com

BeacH20

amenities include boat slips at a Georgian Bay

www.bremonthomes.com

Marina, Bay Port Yachting Centre, Midland

Georgian Sands

Golf and Country Club, Quest Art School, Wye

www.georgiansands.com

Marsh, Midland Cultural Centre, Georgian

www.rogersenterprises.com

College, Curling Club

robert.mackey@mcintee.ca

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outdoor pools, fitness facility, tennis centre,

Golf View Estates Oak Meadows

www.sydenhamcondos.com

STAYNER

www.meadowsofcreemore.ca

Flesherton Country Town Homes

The Sydenham

Amenities: Borders 2,300 feet of shoreline

The Meadows of Creemore

FLESHERTON

www.livecobblebeach.com

Price Range: Low $200,000s to low $400,000s Targeting: singles, families, empty-nesters

Golf Side Estates www.jdchomes.ca

The Village of Trillium Forest

Phone: 705-526-2700

www.zancorhomes.com

Pinehurst Estates

Email: info@seasonslittlelake.com

Wasaga Heights

www.barrysconstruction.ca

Website: www.seasonslittlelake.com

www.wasagaheights.com

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2017

Art in stone has a long and venerable reputation for arousing awe and stirring emotions. Beauty and longevity memorably command our attention and respect. Â Â Our extensive range of styles and colours will appeal to your inner artist or connoisseur as you are inspired to create timeless memories in and outside

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Let 400 yards take you a world away with a 2017 Monterra Golf Membership. Limited Memberships start at $999 and allow you to play three rounds a week from Sunday to Friday, all season long.

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*Price plus HST and is based on a 2017 Monterra Golf Limited Membership. Limited Memberships include cart rental and are valid for three rounds per week Sunday to Friday, excluding Sundays on holiday long weekends. Tee time reservation is based on availability and can be made up to 7 days in advance. Visit bluemountain.ca/golf for complete details.

705-445-0231

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ON THE BAY

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FEATURED

HOME

A Viewof the

Vineyard At home amidst the vines of The Creemore Hills Winery

by JUDY ROSS photos by DEREK TRASK

decade or so ago, Catherine Morrissey was looking for land to plant a vineyard in Argentina. She had become interested in wine making and believed Argentina offered the best potential. Morrissey, who lives and works in Toronto, was familiar with Creemore, but it never struck her as a wine-producing region. Then she found this 49-acre farm property with a landscape that reminded her of Tuscany and thought, “maybe this land will work.�

Catherine Morrissey and Stephen Loewy planted 6,000 grapevines at their The Creemore Hills Winery, which produced its first 300 bottles of wine in 2015.

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FEATU RE D

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The kitchen (above) was opened up and renovated by Shelburne Kitchens and Don Patten Remodelling Ltd. New counters are Caesar Stone piatra grey quartz. The bull sculpture is by local artist Ralph Hicks.

Stephen Loewy bought the dining room table and chairs (right) at a John Simpson auction in Creemore. The horse painting by Jennifer Mack of Calgary was bought online. Springbok hides from South Africa cover the cushions on the antique settee.

She and her partner, Stephen Loewy, contacted a professor of viticulture from Brock University who examined the property and suggested they could grow a hybrid grape recently developed through the University of Minnesota, which can tolerate winter temperatures well below zero. That was the green light and since then they haven’t looked back. Their goal is to produce 5,000 cases a year under their label, “The Creemore Hills Winery.” In 2015 they produced their

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first 300 bottles of Marquette, a premium red, which will become their signature wine.

Over the past 10 years they have invested in all the expensive machinery required to clear out the tangle of hawthorn bush that spread throughout the property. To put in drainage, they dug four feet down and laid tiles to prepare the land for planting grapes.

They renovated the two-storey house, which had been chopped up into two apartments, and also built a 9,000-square-foot barn. The

front entrance was given a face-lift and the main floor opened up to focus on the views.

Next, they built an addition onto the house that includes a tasting room and a garage with a spectacular terrace spread across its rooftop.

The lower floor now features a movie theatre where they can host a dozen people on movie nights. A large screen pulls down over the picture window and a row of reclining leather seats faces the screen.

Behind those, another row of vintage theatre

Tip to Tail PET BOARDING/GROOMING & DAYCARE

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We treat your pet like family!

Call or text 519-477-0812 or 519-379-7352 RR1 Meaford / tiptotailgrooming@hotmail.com / www.tiptotail.ca /

FEATU RED

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From Practical and Affordable to Unique and Elegant

Sales and installation of hardwood, laminate, ceramics, porcelain, natural stone, carpet & vinyl.

Free Estimates. One year warranty on installs.

1232 Mosley St., Unit 1, Wasaga Beach 705-429-0099

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Two new fireplaces were added to the house during the major renovation, including one in the living room (top). Both were custom built and designed by Paul Rowles of Creemore. One of several guest rooms used for visiting family and friends (middle and above) features a cow painting found in a nearby barn and cleaned up. Resting on the bed is Morrissey’s rescue dog, Odie.

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A B C D seats is draped in old mink coats – just one of many quirky elements found throughout this house and property. As Morrissey explains, “Steve is an auction junkie. Almost everything we have here has come from country auctions or been shipped from his homeland in South Africa.”

Also on the lower floor is a hot yoga room with mirrored walls and an infrared sauna outside its door. As Morrissey explains, most of the spaces in the house serve dual purposes because “we have no rules about what room is what. I tend to start out with plans and they turn into something else.”

It is this willingness to share their lovely country retreat and their budding winery with friends and neighbours that makes The Creemore Hills Winery so special.

We refaced this kitchen with new Shaker doors and replaced the knobs with brushed nickel pulls We altered the upper cabinetry and installed a sleek modern wine rack We installed a new deep bowl undermount stainless steel sink and faucet We added decorative Shaker paneling to match the new Shaker doors

We removed the outdated laminate countertop and installed a new granite countertop We installed stylish crown moulding to the upper cabinetry We added Shaker style light valance and lights over the countertop We retrofitted the upper cabinetry to accommodate the new over the range microwave

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The yoga room, used less than she had hoped, now has a bed. The tasting room, which was built specifically with walls made of stone from the property and a glass garage door opening to an outdoor patio, was intended to be the perfect place for wine tastings. But because the couple frequently hosts large parties and sleepover guests, it also now has a bed and was even converted to a bridal suite for a family wedding that took place last September.

The huge barn is further proof that everything here is constantly evolving.

The building has many purposes beyond storage for the heavy machinery and wine-making equipment. The second floor was designed to be used for large events such as weddings. At one end of the vast, high-ceilinged space is

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850 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-445-0881

850 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-445-0881

ON THE BAY

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FEATU RED

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MORE GOES INTO YOUR SEPTIC THAN YOU THINK. Keeping your septic system well-maintained is more complicated than you think. With over 30 years of providing expert service, you can trust Mac Taylor to think of everything.

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www.mactaylor.com 519-794-2380 62

ON THE BAY

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The tasting room, temporarily a bedroom, was built specifically with walls made of stone from the property.

INTERIOR DECORATING & DESIGN | SPACE PLANNING KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN | CUSTOM FURNITURE & LIGHTING REUPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY

705.444.8330 5 1 H u ro nt a r io St , Co l l in g wo o d

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DECKS

FENCES A lower level room in the new addition (top and above) has glass garage doors opening to a patio. Featuring walls made of stone from the property, it will eventually be a tasting room for the winery, but for now it provides extra sleeping space. Homeowners Catherine Morrissey and Stephen Loewy (left) relax in their media room installed by Georgian Audio Video.

an authentic bar complete with brass railings that came from Hemingway’s, a well-known pub and restaurant owned by a friend in Toronto.

The outdoor terrace at Hemingway’s was also the inspiration for the roof deck that Morrissey says is “our favorite place to sit. We relax here by looking out at the beautiful countryside and thinking how lucky we are to be here.”

The awning that partly covers the terrace was designed to be used for most of the year. Retractable canvas panels operate by remote control and can be raised or lowered to create a shady sitting area in the daytime. At night, when the propane fire pit is burning, the heat rises and is contained by the awning, thus extending their use of the outdoor space. Also on the deck are large red fibreglass containers that change with the seasons, adding lovely bursts of colour from spring until fall.

Besides planting 6,000 grapevines and putting in two paddocks for Morrissey’s horses, the property is now lush with perennial gardens and

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

FEATU RED

HOME

It’s smooth sailing When you have the right financial advice

Branch Manager Aaron Foster is pleased to announce that Investment Advisors Ian Kennedy and Catherine Sendell are now working as a team, helping families achieve their life goals through comprehensive wealth management strategies.

Put their 45 years of combined experience to work for you. Contact Ian and Catherine today for a second opinion on your investments.

Ian Kennedy, CIM Portfolio Manager & Investment Advisor Catherine Sendell, BSc., FCSI, CIWM Associate Portfolio Manager & Investment Advisor Sarah Gazarek | Associate Advisor

1 First St., Suite 230 Collingwood, Ontario 705-444-4557 RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *MemberCanadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2016. All rights reserved. 16_90544_FXX_003

Sorley & Still When you need legal representation, let the experienced lawyers at Sorley & Still work for you.

In 2015 they produced their first 300 bottles of Marquette, a premium red, which will become their signature wine.

Family Law Separation & Divorce Custody & Support Property & Pensions Wills & Estates/Litigation

705-994-4616

2-450 Hume Street, Collingwood

CollingwoodFamilyLaw.com 64

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The new 9,000-square-foot barn (above) serves many purposes including storage for their heavy machinery and wine-making equipment. An event space on the second floor was used for a family wedding. The infrared sauna (above right, from Great Saunas in Kitchener) helps with muscle aches and injuries from all the work the couple has done on the property. The rooftop terrace (top and middle) has both a sitting room warmed by a fire pit and a dining area with teak furniture from Fresh in Toronto. The retractable canvas roof is from Pike’s Awnings.

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SOURCE GUIDE EXTERIOR Paint – Colonial Yellow, Benjamin Moore Stone Staircase – Builder, Paul Rowles, Creemore Planters – Teresa Matamoros, Garden Holistics, Thornbury Orchard Rejuvenation – JC Agri Orchards, Thornbury LIVING ROOM Floor Lamp and Carpet – Elte, Toronto Fireplace – Custom built and designed by Paul Rowles, Creemore KITCHEN Cupboards and Fixtures – Shelburne Kitchens, Shelburne General Contractor – Don Patten Remodelling Inc., Shelburne Countertops – Caesar Stone: Piatra Grey Quartz Lighting – Rigney Electric, Singhampton Material and Fixtures Design – Barb Koturbash, Toronto BEDROOM/TASTING ROOM Glass Garage Doors – Advanced Door Systems (ADS), Stayner Stone Walls – Builder, Paul Rowles, Creemore MEDIA ROOM Equipment & Installation – Georgian Audio Video, Collingwood Reclining Chairs – Georgian Audio Video Stone Fireplace – Paul Rowles, Creemore Carpet – Elte, Toronto INFRARED SAUNA Sauna & Installation – Great Saunas, Kitchener OUTDOOR TERRACE Canvas Roofing – Pike’s Awnings Inc., Vaughan Flooring – Kandy Outdoor Flooring, Toronto Table & Chairs – Fresh Home & Garden, Toronto Planters – Garden Holistics, Thornbury

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Wild roses and lavender (above, planted by Garden Holistics in Thornbury) line the stone paths that surround the house and lead to the vineyards. A rear view of the house (left) shows the addition on the right with the stone-walled tasting room and garage on the lower level and the rooftop terrace above.

apple orchards that have been completely rejuvenated. Edging the paths to the vineyard are thick clumps of roses and lavender that create a heavenly scent in summer, and the couple has planted masses of milkweed to attract monarch butterflies.

Stephen Loewy, ever the recycler, kept all the rocks and stones that were dug up for the vineyards and used them to create rock beds for a stream, two ponds and a waterfall, all of which he installed himself. In the summer of 2015, over 300 people toured the property during the Purple Hills Garden Tour.

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It is this willingness to share their lovely country retreat and their budding winery with friends and neighbours that makes The Creemore Hills Winery so special. Every year the couple holds a Vintner’s Dinner - a 10-course feast - for a group of locals who have made a commitment to growing wine in the area and the friends who have helped with harvesting the grapes.

But for Morrissey, who has been in the brokerage business for 30 years, the best thing about her home in the Creemore hills is the peace and quiet. “My Bay Street job is so

filled with stress that I love getting up here, such a short distance really from downtown Toronto, and yet this is the complete opposite of stress!”

Stress-free perhaps, but still a place where things are in constant motion and brimming with plans and visions for the future. Not content to have the view remain unchanging, Morrissey is looking into planting some cypress trees on the hillside that would make it look even more like Tuscany. As she concedes with a smile, “it will always be a work in progress.” ❧

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What’s new in outdoor design

by JUDY ROSS

n any landscape design, whether it’s a modest backyard or a large country estate, there are three main components. First comes the hardconstructed landscape, which includes patios and pathways. Then there’s the soft landscape: the lawns, trees and gardens. The

finishing touch is the decorative accessories, which can include things like water features and fire-pits.

The first and most important of these components is the hardscape installation of paths and patios. These will be permanent and form the backbone of your garden design.

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PHOTO BY DEREK TRASK

billbrownwoodworking@rogers.com

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Patios are typically set close to the house and become an extension of the indoor living space. They are made with stone, brick or concrete flooring (as opposed to a deck, which is made of wood or wood-like material and usually raised off the ground). One advantage of a patio versus a wooden deck is durability. “Almost any deck requires some maintenance,” says Brian Stewart of All-Stone Landscaping in Collingwood, who has been building patios for 27 years, “and after about 10 years most decks need replacing. But a stone patio, if installed correctly, is good for life.”

When choosing a design for your patio, much will depend on the amount of space available. You need to consider privacy and exposure. If your patio faces south, you will probably want a roofed pergola or awning as protection from the sun. Do you need room for a barbecue grill or do you plan to install more elaborate outdoor kitchen equipment? Perhaps you just want an intimate space with a bistro table for two and a lattice fence or cedar hedge for privacy. The patios in basic subdivision houses are typically just paved slabs outside a sliding door, but, with a little ingenuity, even these can be converted into something more interesting, private and usable.

Following are some ideas on how to get the most from your patio, turning it into an outdoor living space that will provide backyard enjoyment for years to come.

REFURBISH AN OLD PATIO One method for updating a plain old patio is to put down a decorative concrete coating. Kevin Thompson is the owner/operator of Concrete FX in Meaford, a company that specializes is this innovative process. “I’ve been doing this for 14 years,” offers Thompson, who came here from Calgary three years ago, “and the product has been around longer than that in the United States but it’s fairly new to this area.”

GARDEN CENTER OPENING MAY 1ST New and innovative products continue to give us better and more interesting options for our outdoor spaces.

The product is a Portland-based concrete blend of plastics and polymers that can be applied in a thin (1/8-inch) layer on top of existing concrete.

The biggest advantage is that the old concrete doesn’t have to be removed.

Removing concrete and replacing it is a huge, messy job that disturbs the landscape, requires large machinery, and involves drilling and hauling chunks of concrete to a dump site.

As Thompson explains, “Ninety-nine per cent of my business is old concrete installations, like patios and pool decks, that need freshening.” The process involves cleaning the existing concrete, levelling it out, filling in any cracks and applying a bonding coat. The final coat is where the creativity comes in, as there are a wide range of designs and colours to choose from.

A border trim can be put around the edge of a rectangular or square patio and combined with a crisscross tile pattern. The colour of the concrete can complement the exterior of your home or blend with the interior for an indoor/outdoor flow. Possibilities abound.

If you’re starting anew to build a patio on a fresh plot of land, the most

WE OFFER A WIDE VARIETY OF: Annuals • Perennials • Shrubs • Roses • Mulches & Soils • Trees Outdoor Furniture • Sheds or Cabins • Saunas • Gazebos • Hot Tubs Vegetable plants, planters, concrete products and much more Come see for yourself, all that we offer.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Tree Planting • Custom Container Planting • Deliver & Install All Products Across Ontario

Visit our online store

www.maxwellgardencenter.com The latest trends in patio design include covered patios (top left) and flagstone patios at ground level (left) that are an extension of the indoor space.

453897 Grey Rd. 2, just South of Maxwell Phone: 519.922.1479 Toll Free: 1.844.564.0224 email: sales@maxwellgardencenter.com ON THE BAY

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important step is to put in a good, solid base that is thick enough to prevent any heaving and shifting in the future. “One mistake that we see all the time in patio construction is not removing all of the topsoil,” warns Brian Stewart.

“When topsoil is left it will retain moisture and cause shifting.” A solid base for a stone patio is also important if you plan to add uprights for a pergola, gazebo or screened porch. Shifting foundations will create even more havoc when there’s a structure built on top of the patio.

PATIO PLACEMENT

All designs are built to last using: • Full 1” thick select furniture grade Western Red Cedar • Stainless steel hardware • Waterproof polyurethane adhesive

Patios don’t have to be placed next to your house. One landscape designer suggests putting a stone patio at the back of the garden, especially if you have a private area that is screened from the house. Create a sinewy pathway of pea gravel and stone that will lead to a forgotten corner of your backyard. Put up an arbour for shade, surround it with clipped evergreens or lush plants like hydrangeas, add comfortable seating and your patio will seem like a hidden getaway.

Another great location for a patio is at the bottom of the stairs that lead from a deck to the garden. A raised wooden deck off the back of a house can feel too exposed, but a patio at ground level is more secluded and will give the feeling of being immersed in the garden. To soften it and make it more like a European courtyard, surround it with raised beds filled with small shrubs and grasses.

Outdoor sheds can become part of a patio and help to add structure to your garden. By placing a patio next to a shed, you can use one wall as a backdrop. Add a mirror, artwork or a trellis on the wall to create interest and a sense of enclosure. If the shed wall has a window you’ll get the benefit of night light on your patio.

Using outside walls to hang artwork helps create an outdoor room that reflects your personal style (above).

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Copyright © 2015 Joseph Ribkoff Inc. All rights reserved. Any reproduction and/or use of the Joseph Ribkoff logo for commercial or promotional purposes is forbidden without the written authorization of Joseph Ribkoff Inc.

Don’t Miss the

SUMMER

ELAINE DICKINSON’S FASHIONS

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Look for our summer issue end of June.

311 Hurontario St., Collingwood (705) 445-4093 www.elainedickinsonsfashions.com

PATIO MATERIALS Natural stone is the most expensive patio material, but also the most popular in our area. Large slabs of flagstone cut to fit like a jigsaw puzzle give a relaxed look especially suitable for country properties. When planted with thyme between the gaps, it will also smell wonderful. Square-cut flagstone is more formal looking and also more level – a consideration if you’re putting a table and chairs on the patio.

Interlocking brick or stone is another option, which has improved vastly since it first came to market. Now it comes in multiple sizes, shapes and colours and can even replicate the look of traditional cobblestone.

“The best new thing in patio construction is polymeric sand,” says Brian Stewart of All-Stone Landscaping, who is amazed at what this product can do. It’s a mix of graded sand and binder that can fill the joints between pavers, slabs and natural stone. Unlike conventional sand, it stays in place and prevents weeds from coming through.

“When it rains it softens up,” says Stewart, “ but then it resets and gets firm again when dry. It’s unreal!”

CREATE SHADE WITH PERGOLAS & GAZEBOS New and innovative products continue to give us better and more interesting options for our outdoor spaces. Pergolas are formed by two rows of upright pillars with horizontal beams or joists creating the roof. They’re popular because they’re easy to install on a patio, they add architectural interest, and they can provide a base for growing colourful climbing vines.

On sunny days they provide lovely dappled shade, and if more shade is required, a permanent roof can be added. A full roof also allows you the pleasure of sitting outside on your patio during a soft summer rainfall.

Gazebos, usually octagonal in shape with a conical roof, also provide privacy, a refuge from rain and sun, and a fanciful element to an outdoor

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A raised wooden deck at the back of a house can feel too exposed, but a patio at ground level is more secluded and will give the feeling of being immersed in the garden. patio. Canvas pull-down shades can be installed on the sides as protection from the setting sun.

You can purchase ready-made pergolas, gazebos and other garden structures at landscape depots and garden centres like Maxwell Garden Center in Maxwell. Owner Ezra Martin says they also build custom shelters.

“One of the most popular structures right now are screened sheds,” says Martin. “We put these on patios, set them up against a wall of the house and then add three screened sides. They provide shade and keep bugs away.

Instead of using cedar, which is expensive, we build them from the same good-quality pine that we use in our barns so they aren’t too costly.”

Spring is a time when we traditionally start planning great things for our gardens. If a patio is in your dreams, you can start now to track the path of the sun and figure out just where to lay down a patio, what style and materials to use, and how and where to add a structure that will give you a shady oasis on those hot summer days to come. ❧

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O P T I M A L H E A LT H F O R A L L

Dr. Olivia Cheng, MD, FRCSC, Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Todd Starr, Chiropractor, ART, Acupuncture Darryl Novotny, Physiotherapist Dimitri Tkhinvaleli, Registered Massage Therapist Eden Wild, Registered Massage Therapist Dean Woodcock, Certified Pedorthist Jordan McCarl, BScKin/Personal Trainer

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RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & MANAGED PROPERTIES

• lawn mowing • lawn fertilizing • weed control • grass trimming/edging • mulching • hedge trimming • flower beds • fence/deck maintenance • spring/fall cleanups A pergola with a canvas shade covers an outdoor kitchen (top). A gazebo (above) provides privacy, a refuge from rain and sun, and a fanciful element to an outdoor space.

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Thomas P. merrifield Jason s. Cowan niCole m. VaillanCourT lauren C. BlanCheT

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15 ways to get the most from your garden

by JUDY ROSS e all want to enjoy our gardens, but it seems that nobody wants to spend time taking care of them. At least that’s the view of Ken Ormsby, who has been in the business for over 30 years, and owns Ormsby’s Garden Center on Hwy. 26 west of Thornbury. “It used to be that people would happily spend all day working in their gardens,” he says, “but now all my clients want a wonderful-looking garden that is ‘maintenance free.’ I tell them there’s no such thing!”

That may be true, but there are many ways to cut down on chores and still have a great-looking garden. The following 15 tips, gathered from gardening professionals in the area, will help you achieve the goal of a garden that is ‘almost’ maintenance free, leaving you time to stretch out on a deck chair and enjoy the beauty.

By using some of these strategies and tips, you’ll have splendidlooking gardens and more time for summer enjoyment.

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PINCH BACK ANNUALS “People hate to do this,” says Charlotte Vostermans, a master gardener who lives and gardens in Creemore, “because it has to be done when annuals are at their fullest bloom in early to mid-July.” But, she maintains, it will pay off. If you cut back all the straggly branches of annuals like petunias, you will have blooms till frost. Vostermans recommends staggering the process so you still have some bloom left on every planter. And don’t wait too late; the plants need time to fill out again.

GET A RAIN GAUGE Even if you have an irrigation system, most plants (especially new ones) need supplemental water. “We see this all the time.

People put in irrigation and think they don’t need to do anything else,” says Rhonda Green, owner of Greentree Gardens & Emporium on Hwy. 26 in Collingwood. She suggests buying a simple rain gauge or just using an old soup can to see how much rain has fallen. It may be raining in one place but not another. A good thorough soaking once a week is better than watering too often or not enough.

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CONTAIN INVASIVE PLANTS Any plant that wants more than its allotted space – mint, for instance – can be contained by planting it in a large plastic pot and cutting off the bottom before putting it into the ground. This will keep the roots from spreading.

PLANT TREES There are so many reasons to plant trees: for shade, to provide natural habitat for birds and wildlife, to create interest. And today you don’t have to wait years for trees to grow. In one garden project Ken Ormsby planted ten 25-foot tall oaks and maples. The owners wanted their property to look instantly established. “You pay a hefty pricetag,” says Ormsby, “but the results are impressive.”

USE VEGETABLE WATER After boiling vegetables, save the water and use it when cool to water plants. This ‘master gardener’ trick works for houseplants, too. “You’ll get great results,” says Charlotte Vostermans.

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DON’T OVERWATER CONTAINERS “The biggest error with containers is overwatering,” says Jessica Ladly, manager of Riverside Greenhouses in Heathcote, a nursery famous locally for its hanging baskets and container plants. “It’s important to check the soil before watering and make sure the drainage is working.”

FERTILIZE CONTAINERS A LOT Jessica Ladly also recommends fertilizing container plants almost every time you water with an all-purpose 20/20/20 mix. “A lot of new varieties of container plants are vigorous growers that only perform at high feed,” she says. “They require way more food than the older plant varieties.”

Think Golf Think Blue!

CREATE TRELLISES WITH BRANCHES After pruning your trees, save the branches (ones at least three feet long with lots of limbs) and use them to make trellises. You can use these for climbing plants like clematis and sweet pea. Rhonda Green says her husband Doug edges the vegetable garden with these broken twigs after the peas and beans have sprouted. “It looks great and the vegetables love it.”

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USE EGGSHELLS AS FERTILIZER Crush eggshells on a cookie sheet using a rolling pin and put around the base of plants. This protects from insects and nourishes the plants with calcium. Coffee grounds work, too.

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STORE LARGE CLAY POTS Charlotte Vostermans has dozens of clay planters in her gardens, including many large ones. She leaves them outside all winter and claims that they never crack. Her secret? She empties them, turns them over and places a brick or rock over the drainage hole.

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USE MULCH EVERYWHERE

me P u bli c We lc o

Mulch (shredded cedar bark is best) helps retain moisture, encourages earthworms, and helps reduce weeding. Layer it on all your garden beds, but be careful not to pile it too thickly close to perennials.

Every couple of years, add another thin layer. One caveat, according to Rhonda Green, is to avoid using new wood chips from a freshly fallen tree.

These need to sit for a year before being put on flowerbeds. It’s okay to use new chips on pathways, however.

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GET RID OF PESTS If slugs are getting into your planters or eating your hostas, buy some copper mesh (comes in a roll at stores like Lee Valley) and stake it in the pots or around the hosta. Slugs won’t crawl over copper. Another common garden pest is the red lily beetle. To get rid of them, mix one part ammonia with 10 parts water and spray early in the spring around the plants. Reapply after a rain.

Educated, Healthy Garden Choices

• design and construction • organic lawn and tree care • expert lawn and garden maintenance • seasonal containers • seasonal lighting

519.599.1003 SPRAY TOOLS Use a silicone spray on shovels, edgers, pitchforks, etc. to keep soil from caking on them. For smaller hand tools, ‘plant’ them in a clay pot filled with a mixture of sand and mineral oil.

The sand keeps them sharp and the mineral oil keeps them from rusting.

KEEP LARGE PLANTERS FROM BEING TOO HEAVY Fill planters half full of packing peanuts (choose eco-friendly ones). Layer a piece of landscape fabric over top, then add potting mix.

By using some of these strategies and tips, you’ll have splendidlooking gardens and more time for summer enjoyment. You can take it easy in the fall, too. Instead of doing a major cleanup, “just leave everything as is,” advises Charlotte Vostermans, who never cuts her plants back before winter.

“I leave all the stalks, leaves and seed heads because it creates winter interest, and more importantly, provides nutrients for the soil and food for the birds,” she offers. “I’d rather feed the birds in the winter and then do a big cleanup in the spring.” ❧

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Servicing Southern Georgian Bay

YOUR CONTAINER GARDEN SPECIALISTS

Riverside Greenhouses 519-599-3533 www.riversidegreenhouses.ca riversidegreenhouses@gmail.com

Opening May 2nd

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A PASSION for

PORK On the Mitchell Family Farm, raising Berkshire pigs is a lesson in sustainability

by EMILY WORTS photos by KRISTIE & BRENDEN WOODS

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Berkshire pigs thrive outdoors on the Mitchell Farm, eliminating the need for a barn while turning and fertilizing the soil.

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T

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The Mitchell family (above): Sara Sniderhan in back; Jackson, Peter and Isobel Mitchell in front. Red Sex-Link chickens (right) have free range on the farm.

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rading in an established urban life for an unchartered rural adventure complete with acreage, animals, farm equipment, market stalls and late night pig deliveries is worth recognition, especially when those choices impact the local food scene in positive ways. Taking the risk and mustering the courage to exchange the known for the unknown is often talked about but rarely acted upon. Yet that’s what Sara Sniderhan and Peter Mitchell, two working artists from Toronto, along with their young children, Jackson and Isobel, did when they purchased 22 acres south of Avening.

It was not without sweat and tears that the family transformed the land (almost entirely on their own) into a mixed-use, off-the-grid farm. And it was not without the aid of YouTube videos and the wisdom of local elders that they learned how to sustainably raise one boar, five breeding sows, 37 young piglets, 60 laying hens, 30 Muscovy ducks and 50 white rock chickens, who together make up the Mitchell Family Farm.

Like so many 21st century learners, the Mitchells began their quest for knowledge on the Internet; more specifically on YouTube. Before moving north they watched videos on everything from pig rearing to cheese making.

It was the heritage breed of pig, Berkshire, that caught their attention.

Not only were the videos of young Berkshire piglets extremely appealing to their children, but Sniderhan and Mitchell soon realized the breed was a perfect match for their budget and their land. Berkshire pigs thrive outdoors, unlike other more conventional breeds, and building a barn wasn’t in the family’s immediate building budget. Pigs are also proficient at digging up soil, turning it over, and adding organic nutrients to it – much-needed tasks

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Berkshire pigs thrive outdoors, unlike other more conventional breeds, and building a barn wasn’t in the family’s immediate building budget. on land that had been in a decades-long cycle of soy, corn and oats, leaving the soil devoid of much-needed nutrients.

“We needed as much organic material as we could add to it,” says Mitchell. “The pigs helped us with that.”

Another added bonus of the Berkshire breed is that their meat is exceptionally tasty. My own family bought our first 25-pound pork bundle from the Mitchell Farm last year and we were struck by the flavour and the colour of the meat. The pigs are about twice as old as conventional breeds when sent to slaughter. This means more exercise, resulting in leaner meat.

It also means more days outside, eating fallen apples from the farm’s heritage orchard, which add wonderful flavour to the variety of cuts offered in a bundle.

Raising Berkshire pigs doesn’t just mean meat on the family table and money in the coffers (the farm had over 100 customers last year, including individuals and restaurants) but nutrient-rich soil that is ready to be worked.

The family – and I say family because all four of them help out – planted 3,000 cloves of garlic last fall in an area the pigs had diligently turned over and enriched during their first three years on the farm.

This garlic is another focus of the mixed-use family farm. It takes four

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for another? What compels them to invest everything into something they know so little about? And how does one harness the courage to think outside the box and follow the calling of the land?

As young artists, Mitchell and Sniderhan have always needed to supplement their income. Sniderhan still teaches fine arts part-time in Toronto, at OCAD and St. Stephens, and runs painting workshops from her studio in Creemore.

“I wanted to bring it home,” says Sniderhan of making part of her living locally. “From the get-go our plan was to be art farmers. This is it!”

To add to the farm’s diversity, the family introduced 1,000 strawberry plants, 250 raspberry canes, 250 crowns of asparagus and a ton of horseradish last spring. Mitchell makes prosciutto and confit from the Muscovy ducks, while eggs contribute to farm gate sales. This summer 300 meat birds and maybe some bees will be added to the growing mélange of critters on the farm.

Days spent researching on YouTube aren’t completely over – Sniderhan still has aspirations to make cheese – but the family is settling in, literally putting down roots and now also feels comfortable asking local elders to share their expertise. “There is a willingness to ask and to look foolish,” says Mitchell. “Locals are so willing to help if you’re willing to help yourself.”

They have sought advice from octogenarian Maurice Weatherall, who is a bit of a farming legend in these parts; from tenant farmer John Elder, who had been working their land prior to their purchase; and from their neighbour, Henn Kurvitz. From these rich sources of knowledge they have learned about birthing and delivering piglets, pig temperament, local soil, and even bee keeping. For now the Mitchell Family Farm sells its wares at the Creemore Farmer’s Market and supplies restaurants locally and in Toronto that share the family’s food philosophy.

In a time of food waste and increasing food costs, the Mitchells supports a ‘nose to tail’ approach to preparing their food. They prefer to sell whole pigs

Isobel and Jackson Mitchell hug Gordie the pig (top) as they help out on the farm. A Berkshire piglet (above) moves in for his close-up.

years for garlic to acclimate to the soil and the family planned ahead. So passionate are they about growing and providing food, they prioritized their garlic patch over their own shelter. The garlic went in before the foundation for their home and four years later they still haven’t sold a bulb.

“Last year we had a good buyer who said he would buy all our garlic in one go,” says Mitchell. It was a tempting offer for a young family starting out in a financially risky life of farming, but the Mitchells took a longer view.

“We said ‘no’ and kept it to build up our seed stock. We hope to plant 30,000 cloves next year.”

This type of planning and commitment is evident in the quality of their products and the success the family has had on the farm to date. Last summer the Mitchell Family Farm ran a bustling business at the Creemore Farmer’s Market selling breakfast sandwiches made with their own eggs and bacon.

They sold pulled pork and smoked sausages to the lunch crowd and frozen tourtière and garlic scape pesto made by Sniderhan. They had to close up shop for the last four weeks of the market because they ran out of stock.

In the midst of my conversation with Mitchell and Sniderhan, I can’t help but wonder what motivates people to pack up one life and trade it in

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Pallets of eggs are ready for farm gate sales at the Mitchell Family Farm in Mulmur. (above)

Mitchell family farm products are available at: • The farm gate, 938481 Airport Road, Mulmur • Creemore Farmer’s Market • Azzurra Tratoria in Collingwood

Contact: 416-578-6685 sara.sniderhan@gmail.com Or on facebook @mitchellfarminmulmur

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Last summer the Mitchell Family Farm ran a bustling business at the Creemore Farmer’s Market selling breakfast sandwiches made with their own eggs and bacon.

to restaurants that will use every last bit of the pig for everything from head cheese and proscuitto to pork belly and terrines made from organs.

“It’s a good match with our ethics,” says Mitchell. “It makes sure every piece is appreciated and it helps us keep our farm small and sustainable.”

Accessibility is important for the Mitchells as well. They keep their costs down by doing most of the work themselves (from planting and tilling to fixing tractors and building their own home), and by focusing on what they are passionate about and what makes sense.

“I want to be able to afford my own meat,” says Sniderhan. “I can’t afford my own paintings and I want some part of my life to be accessible!”

In talking to Sniderhan and Mitchell, I have come to learn that farming is driven by a number of factors: a love of the land, the environment and tradition; respect for the past and a vision for the future; concerns for food accessibility, scarcity and quality; and, most of all, passion.

Living where I do, in Southern Georgian Bay, I am so thankful to be surrounded by friends and community members who inspire me every day in every way to live my life authentically, reflecting my values and beliefs, including those relating to food and sustainability. Sniderhan and Mitchell are two of the most passionate people I have ever met, and I consider myself very fortunate to call them friends – ‘friends with benefits,’ in fact, as they contribute to keeping my family healthy and well fed. ❧

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Father and son tend the pigs (left). The Mitchells produce various cuts of meats (top), including bacon and ham roasts. Garlic (above), the Mitchells’ main crop, ready for the next round of planting.

Recipe Jackson’s Panko Crusted Chops This Mitchell family recipe is aptly named, as it is often fully executed from start to finish by 10-year-old Jackson Mitchell. The chops are as delicious as they are easy to prepare.

• 4 Berkshire pork chops • Salt and pepper • 8 leaves fresh sage • 8 cloves garlic, minced • 2 cups Panko bread crumbs • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 2 eggs, beaten • 2 Tbsp oil

• Sprinkle Berkshire chops with salt and pepper.

• Push a whole leaf of fresh sage into each side of the chop.

• Mince the garlic and mix it in with the Panko along with a touch more salt and pepper.

• Dredge each chop first in flour, then whisked eggs and then into the Panko mix.

• Heat oil in a cast iron frying pan and fry chops about 6-8 minutes on each side (depending on thickness) until the middle is no longer running with pink juice.

• Be sure not to overcook.

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BRIAN PORTER After 15 years working as a graffiti artist in major cities like Toronto, Tokyo and L.A., Brian Porter seamlessly transitioned into the realm of fine art with his captivating style of animal and pop icon portraiture. His keen use and combination of colour invests his paintings with vibrancy and power that make his work instantly recognizable.

Potent and proud, with internal depth and outward magnificence, each of the animal subjects is illuminated against a black backdrop, creating a stage upon which to showcase their unique natural prowess. Porter’s work

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represents an intersection between street art – known for its approachability, immediacy and stylistic edge – and gallery artwork, which is often characterized by a polished sensibility and intimate gaze. The fusion of pop cultural elements, vivacious colour and intelligent reflection on the forces of nature that animate Canadian wildlife place Porter’s paintings in a class of their own.

Porter’s work can be found in galleries and private collections in Canada, Great Britain and the USA, and is available locally at Brights Gallery in Blue Mountain Village. ❧

Opening page: Cinnamon Bear, 60x60 inches; Northern Giant, 48x48 inches. This page, clockwise from above: Bison, 40x60 inches; Hoot Hoot, 40x40 inches; Leader of the Pack, 36x36 inches. All mixed media on canvas.

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Garden Rescue founder Heidi Ehlers is ready to work with real estate agents and homeowners to enhance curb appeal.

Chartered Professional Accountant Lil Rourke of LM Rourke, CPA, a new boutique accounting firm in downtown Collingwood.

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The team at Properties by HER, left to right: Lara Kalins, Mark Beadle, founder Christina Herauf and Tracy Feltham.

The latest new business openings as well as business transformations including new owners, moves and major renovations. More great reasons to shop local!

GARDEN RESCUE BY HEIDI With real estate booming in Southern Georgian Bay, creating a positive first impression of a property for sale is crucial. Garden Rescue

by Heidi specializes in garden staging, working with real estate agents to enhance curb appeal and help sell homes quickly and lucratively.

“In the same way that home staging works to enhance the home from the inside, garden staging helps to create an immediate favourable first impression – either on real estate listings or when a potential buyer pulls up to the curb,” says owner Heidi Ehlers, who has over 40 years’ experience in gardening and property maintenance. “Curb appeal matters – especially in the crazy, fast-moving real estate market we are in. In my experience, any investment made to enhance curb appeal, whether the homeowner is selling now or in the future, increases the value of the property.”

Ehlers collaborates with real estate agents, home stagers, homeowners, residential developers, interior designers and decorators to enhance the visual appeal of all types of residential properties. In addition to garden staging, Garden Rescue works with homeowners to revitalize and renovate their gardens, offering patioscaping, plantscaping and garden revitalization services. Ehlers also creates seasonal urns (planters), from contemporary to rustic, designed to complement the architecture and scale of clients’ homes.

All photos courtesy of business owners

“My goal is to infuse people with my love of nature by creating spaces that will make them notice how beautiful their garden is again,” she says. “I prefer to prune whenever possible, respecting what the plant naturally wants to do while harnessing it to work within the natural beauty abundant in our region.”

Tel: Collingwood 705-995-5545; Toronto 416-994-7622 Website: www.gardenrescuebyheidi.com Hours: Flexible according to client schedules

LM ROURKE, CPA – PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION LM Rourke, CPA is a boutique accounting firm in Collingwood that specializes in providing tailored accounting, taxation and advisory services to small to medium-sized businesses, professional practices and residents of Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Stayner and surrounding areas.

The firm provides the following services: financial statement preparation; corporate and personal income tax returns; tax planning and business reorganization advice; business start-up guidance; bookkeeping and payroll; business advisory, including strategic planning and virtual CFO services; financial software consultation and implementation.

“So many business owners get bogged down in paperwork, trying to make sure they are compliant with government and other regulatory reporting,” says owner Lil Rourke. “Our primary

objective is to help our clients re-focus back on their passion – the reason they started their business – by providing trustworthy, professional advice and business services they can count on.”

Rourke, a longtime resident of Southern Georgian Bay, left the area to pursue professional career opportunities. She brings over 25 years of diverse tax, financial and business consulting experience to her role as a Chartered Professional Accountant. In addition to her financial training, she has gained extensive operations experience through senior executive roles in a variety of industries and sectors.

“Viewing every client relationship like a partnership, we believe that our success is a result of our client’s success,” says Rourke.

“We are committed to providing close, personal attention that extends past tax season. Our continual investment of time and resources in professional continuing education, stateof-the-art technology and extensive business relationships is indicative of our commitment to excellence.”

69 First Street, Unit B, Collingwood Tel: 705-980-0180 Website: www.lmrourkecpa.ca Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-5

PROPERTIES BY HER New to the Collingwood/Blue Mountains area but established in Oakville, Properties

by HER is a property services company that ON THE BAY

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SPECIAL

Left to right: Optometry receptionist Anna Duni, optometrist Dr. Andrew Comly and optician Olivia Peikos at Comly Eye Care’s Wasaga Beach location.

coordinates and handles the responsibilities of managing primary and investment properties.

The company assists with the responsibilities of landlords and/or tenants, supports seniors, snowbirds and frequent travellers, and provides help with routine accountabilities for both firsttime and experienced property owners.

Properties by HER is affiliated with a team of cross-discipline specialists in such areas as real estate, interior design/staging and general contracting, who are called upon as needed to support the varying needs of clients.

Services include regular home maintenance and inspections, individualized property needs assessments, assistance with organizing regular accountabilities and effective communication.

Company founder Christina Schaden Herauf has managed her own recreational and investment properties as well as those of her elderly parents for many years. She aims to provide peace of mind property services to owners of all ages and experience levels, allowing them to maximize their personal time and other priorities.

“We know from personal experience that some months are busier than others. With our unique fee structure, we offer hourly bundles that give customers the flexibility of using hours when they really need to,” says Herauf. “Our clients are busy people and we simply love to assist them. Ultimately, when homeowners don’t have time or their investment or recreational property is in a different location, we will coordinate all that needs to be done so they can enjoy their lifestyle.”

106 Venture Boulevard, The Blue Mountains (home office) Tel: 416-346-6039 Website: www.propertiesbyher.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5:30; emergency, after hours and weekends also available

TRANSFORMATIONS COMLY EYE CARE Optometrist Dr. Andrew Comly has recently taken over the Wasaga Beach office of the late Dr. Chris Bernier, who served the eye care needs

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Dana Gunn is closing the doors at Echo Trends to focus on her new career path with Arbonne International personal care and wellness products.

of Wasaga Beach residents for over 20 years.

Following the sudden passing of Dr. Bernier, Dr. Comly filled in at the Wasaga Beach office, then decided to add the practice to his Collingwood location in order to continue serving Dr. Bernier’s patients and offer a convenient second location to existing and new patients.

“Chris Bernier helped me get into the optometry profession and helped me find employment after I moved back into the Southern Georgian Bay area,” says Comly. “He will be sadly missed, and I hope to carry on the legacy of his practice.”

Comly’s Wasaga Beach and Collingwood offices offer full comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fits, Lasik consultations with pre and post care, and a selection of eyewear, sunglasses, safety glasses and contact lenses.

Equipment in the Wasaga Beach office will be updated to provide more thorough eye care.

1470 Mosley Street, Unit 3, Wasaga Beach Tel: 705-429-2015 Website: www.comlyeyecare.ca Hours: Varied

DANA GUNN, ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL “Change is good” is the mantra of Dana Gunn who, after over 35 years in the fashion business – most recently as owner of Echo Trends in Collingwood – has decided to focus on a new career and enjoy spending more time with her growing family.

Coinciding with running her store, for the past two years Gunn has also been working as an independent consultant with Arbonne International, a multinational organization which offers scientifically tested personal care and wellness products made with pure, botanicallybased ingredients.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to help so many women create beautiful wardrobes over the years,” says Gunn. “I am grateful for their loyalty and their trust, and I truly appreciate their patronage season after season. My vision for the future is to help build this organization, which allows me to help thousands of people live better lives. I am excited about the opportunity to invest more time in building this new business and I look forward to continuing to network with my

INFORMATION

SECTION

Loft Gallery owner Heather Carroll (right), Mia Walker of MW Designs (centre) and Samantha Pollock of Sparrow Blue Marketing (left) at the gallery’s new location in downtown Thornbury.

existing client base and others.”

Effective immediately, Echo Trends is having a store closing sale, with 50 p to 80 per cent off all merchandise. “What a fantastic way to say thank you to my clients, offering to fill their closets with favourite fashions at discounted prices,” she says.

Email: danagunn66@gmail.com Website: www.danagunn.arbonne.ca

LOFT GALLERY INC. Loft Gallery, a longtime fixture in the Clarksburg arts scene, has made a move to downtown Thornbury, where it now displays the original works of over 20 artists.

According owner Heather Carroll, Loft Gallery made the move in order to update the business and be in a busier location with more exposure.

“Our new gallery has a fresh new feel with a more modern, industrial vibe,” she says. “We are focusing on growing into the future, building a strong art collection and increasing our online presence in the art world.”

With an updated collection of original paintings and a more visible location, Carroll hopes to continue growing the gallery’s art collection in a direction that addresses the needs and desires of its loyal clientele. A number of gallery artists will be painting on site from time to time, including resident artist Debra Lynn Carroll (whose studio is also located in the gallery) and, when available, Lorne McDermott, Jennifer Woodburn, Janet Liesemer and Brian Buckrell, to name a few.

Painting classes will be offered on site.

“We are very excited to be a part of the vibrant Thornbury community,” says Heather Carroll.

“And we are thrilled that all of our past customers are coming to visit and see our space.”

18 Bruce Street South, Thornbury Tel: 519-599-5912; Mobile 647-296-9797 Website: www.loftgalleryart.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 12-5, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4

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Barbara McCowan** 705.443.9784

Lorraine McDonald* 705.444.4216

Jane Linda Connie Tara Shelly Sandy Greg Cheryl J. Melanie Deb Moysey** Murphy* O’Shell** Parsons* Paul** Shannon** Syrota** Morrison*** Saunders-Chatwin* Moss* 705.444.1420 705.888.1578 705.888.1982 705.351.1420 705.444.3154 705.888.8272 705.888.0225 705.443.2191 705.445.7833 705.446.8082

Fran Webster* 705.444.9081

Sara White** 705.828.6202

Brenda Katia Abaimova* Armstrong** 705.888.8979 705.828.4571

Loretta McInnis* 705.443.1659

3

Candace Armstrong* 705.817.1007

* Sales Representative

** Broker

*** Broker of Record

Experienced. Professional. Client-focused.

We are your Southern Georgian Bay real estate team. Expand your real estate knowledge and follow us on the Peak FM, Facebook and Twitter for insightful updates and advice. When it comes time to buy or sell your home or mountain retreat, choose Windstone Real Estate – your competitive edge!

IDEAL DEVELOPMENT SITE PRIME WATERFRONT LOCATION This 52-acre site permits up to 106 units Live where you play! Enjoy everything under the Official Plan in a mix of single the Georgian Triangle has to offer: your -family and townhomes. It is located own sandy beach, beautiful sunsets over minutes from Blue Mountain Village, the Bay, biking, hiking, skiing and golf.

This attractive three-bedroom home has Georgian Bay, and downtown Collingwood.

Make this premium destination your an easy launch site for small watercraft next new home development. and large windows that overlook the water. ® $894,000 MLS 1702449 $6,600,000 MLS® 1702843

www.windstonerealestate.com CHRISTINE BRENNAN*

KEITH HULL***

Owner

705-444-9527

705-444-4855

RICK WILES** 647-839-9582

BLUE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE This large one-bedroom unit comfortably sleeps four, with a full kitchen to prepare your own meals. It is centrally located in the heart of the Village and within steps of fabulous shops and restaurants, skiing and golf! $179,900 MLS® 1627889

info@windstonerealestate.com

1-888-990-9120 705-444-9527 524 First Street, Collingwood

JEFF DAVIS** 705-441-6001

TOVAH SOCHA Administrator

705-444-9527

* Salesperson ** Broker *** Broker of Record Windstone Real Estate, Brokerage. Independently owned and operated. This is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract.

ROB HOLROYD * 705-818-2040

Great homes.

Great lifestyles. $3,388,000

$2,495,000

$1,999,950

$1,999,000

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT INSPIRED

PRIVATE COUNTRY ESTATE

PANORAMIC ESCARPMENT VIEWS

MILLION DOLLAR VIEWS

Known as “Raven Stone” & built using natural materials with over 5,000 sq ft on multiple levels w/6 bdrms & 6 baths, floor to ceiling windows w/stunning views to Georgian Bay & the Escarpment, stone terrace w/adjoining saltwater pool. MLS®1625311

Exclusive custom-built residence w/panoramic views from the escarpment to shores of Wasaga Beach. 4,575 sq ft w/4 bdrms, 3.5 baths, reclaimed hemlock floors, wood-burning Rumford fireplace, 20’ ceilings & Geothermal heating/cooling. MLS®1618833

Built to the highest standards on 30 acres, this Country Estate boasts 4 bdrms w/4,200 sq ft of luxurious living space, expansive windows w/ views to Georgian Bay, hemlock floors, Gourmet Chef’s Kitchen w/granite counters & tranquil pond. MLS®1615630

Located on 99.75 acres known as Scotch Mountain, this solid Georgian stone home has won an historical award for a “ground up” restoration. Stunning views, 4,040 sq.ft. + shop / barn and heated triple garage.

Barb Picot* 705.444.3452

Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

Barb Picot* 705.444.3452

Dave Armstrong* 905.713.9414

$1,890,000

$1,788,000

EQUESTRIAN FACILITY—CLEARVIEW • • • •

Dutch Masters Design Square 100 Acres 140x 250 outdoor Sandring 28 12x12 Box Stalls/ 15 paddocks

• • •

Farm Manager’s Residence 80 ft x180 ft Indoor Arena/ Travelright Footing Multiple outdoor watering stations

•

In Floor Heating in Viewing Lounge, Tack room, Laundry room feed room and Office

Sue Mallett* 705.444.7181 suzzanne.mallett@sympatico.ca David Rowlands** 705.321.8717 davidr@bmts.com

$1,695,000

MULTI-USE CENTURY FARMHOUSE

STEPS TO CRAIGLEITH CHAIR-LIFT

Perfect for the horse enthusiast or reborn into a new venture. 98 acres, 2,910 sq ft renovated farmhouse w/4 bdrms, 3 baths, Chef’s Kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, 40x75 ft barn w/tack room & 50x30 Garage/Workshop w/many possibilities. MLS®1616022

Rigorously elegant 4+1 bdrms, 3 baths. Floor to ceiling windows, steel construction, concrete & oak floors, open large spans, radiant heat, sound system: built with style & efficiency.

Visit https://youtu.be/3Xo2ZLFdMUo

Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

Anita Lauer* 705.446.6446 Judy Crompton** 705.444.9312

Thank you for your business, your trust and your confidence. It is our pleasure to work with you.

WWW.CHESTNUTPARK.COM | 705.445.5454

S O UTHERN GEORGI A N BAY & GREY B RUCE | W W W .C H ES TN UTPARK .C OM | 7 05.445.5454

$1,575,000

$1,275,000

$1,490,000

$1,500,000

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION!

BLUE SHORES BEAUTY

NEW CUSTOM BUILD WITH VIEWS!

WWW.GAILCRAWFORD.COM

Prime 83.16 acres fronting on Sixth Street and

Stunning waterfront views and sunsets in this 3000 sq ft loft bungalow w/ 5 bedrooms , 5 baths ,soaring vaulted ceilings 2 gas/fp. A resort

Beautiful new custom home with protected land on 2 sides and expansive unobstructed views to the ski hills and Georgian Bay. Just steps from the water, this 4,590 sq.ft spacious home boasts a heated

Lake Eugenia home w/ 3680 sq ft of undeniable beauty. 4 bdrm, 4baths, gourmet kitchen, oversized master, guest retreat w/attached balcony. Walk out to deck & feast your eyes on 82 feet of waterfront with lush gardens.

view to the mountain. Great location for future development or a personal retreat.

pools, tennis and marina.

Martin Kilby** 705.444.4483 Sandee Roberts** 705.446.7775

soaring 25’ ceilings. Municipal water and natural gas.

Gail Crawford* 705.445.3751

Sue Mallett* 705-444.7181

$1,288,000

$1,100,000

$1,200,000

STUNNING LOG HOME WITH MEANDERING TRANQUIL STREAM

DEEP WATER HARBOUR

WWW.READHILTON.COM

Known as “Stream Song” & set at the base of a ridge with a stream that runs alongside the property. 1 acre private lot, spanning over 5,000 sq ft on several levels with a grand entrance foyer w/custom heated

One of a kind Georgian Bay waterfront featuring 200’ of shoreline w/ deep water harbor could handle 30’ yachts. Charming home with expansive decks to take in the panoramic setting.

Waterfront on Lake Eugenia 233 ft, sandy beach, great for swimming w/ 2 docks. Western

Dave Moyer* 519.379.1996

Read Hilton* 705.351.8100

ub & sauna MLS®1701077 Barb Picot* 705.444.3452

ac. professionally landscaped 5 bdrm bungalow

$997,000

$989,000

$948,000

LAKE HURON WATERFRONT

PEACEFUL & PRIVATE

RENOVATED & EXPANDED REGENCY BUNGALOW IN COLLINGWOOD

The world stands still when you enter this stunning log personal oasis. 5 bedrooms, 3 Expansive views of the islands and evening sunsets. Indoor pool too!

COVETED “FOREST” NEIGHBOURHOOD. Casually elegant bungalow nestled amongst stately pines on one acre just minutes from Blue Mountain.

Spacious open-concept design enhanced by architectural features.

a large entertaining deck w/private yard & perennial gardens. MLS®1700022

Gary Taylor** 519.378.4663

Heather Garner* 705.888.0758

Barb Picot* 705.444.3452

$930,000

$899,000

200 ACRES GEORGIAN BLUFFS

LOCKIE ISLAND PARRY SOUND

10TH FLOOR PENTHOUSE

Wonderful opportunity to own 200 ac. of good farm land w/good soil, natural pond site location, large 40’x85’ drive shed. 1987 sq.ft. 3 bdrm., 2 bath home has been in the same family for 4 generations & lovingly cared for.

Beautiful private island, 2 acres w/ 360 vistas of Georgiana Bay. Circa 1932 combines the charm of the old w/ all the comforts of new. Lots of recent upgrades. 15 min boat ride from your slip at Killbear marina.

Resort living

$959,000

Dave Moyer* 519.379.1996

or. MLS®1610269 John M. Kacmar** 705.446.4152

w/marina, pool & tennis in

stunning water/mountain views. F/A gas + gas FP, C/A & 2 deeded indoor parking spaces.

Sue Mallett* 705.444.7181

CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE - FROM THE BAY TO THE BRUCE COLLINGWOOD

393 First Street, Suite 100 Collingwood, ON 705-445-5454

OWEN SOUND

957 4th Avenue East, Suite 200, Owen Sound, ON 519-371-5455

WIARTON

551 Berford Street Wiarton, ON 519-534-5757

S O UTHERN GEORGIAN BAY & GREY B RUCE | W W W .C H ES TN UTPARK .C OM | 705.445.5454

$838,000

$788,000

$698,000

$599,000

RETREAT HIGH ABOVE THORNBURY

POST & BEAM RANCH BUNGALOW

GEORGIAN BAY VIEWS

SHIPYARDS ON THE BAY

Enjoy views of Georgian Bay, the Peaks & Beaver Valley from this stunning ridge-side custom-built retreat w/Apartment Rental potential. 4,290 sq ft, 4 bdrms, 4 baths, open-concept kitchen w/granite counters, gas fp & salt-water pool.

MLS®1615447

3,610 sq ft custom-built Bungalow w/4 bdrms, 3 baths on .8 of an acre w/mature trees. Additional features incl/vaulted ceilings, Chef’s kitchen

Breathtaking views from this artfully renovated contemporary bungalow on 1+ acres in

laundry, Media Room & detached 2 car garage.

MLS®1627231

Gleaming granite, exotic walnut hardwood, multiple patios, stone exterior, triple garage MLS® 420358000405903 lori@chestnutpark.com

2 bdrm, 2 bath, 2 deeded indoor parking spaces. Walk to it all in downtown Collingwood, inc. the Collingwood marina and / or moor your boat at your door & enjoy a waterfront lifestyle in your 1420 sq. ft waterfront condo!

Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

Lori Schwengers** 226.974.1818

Sue Mallett* 705.444.7181

$499,000

$479,000

$399,000

WATER VIEWS – MEAFORD

SWEEPING VISTAS

WATERFRONT BUILDING LOT

58 LOT PRESTIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT

private waterfront land with elevated building sites to take advantage of the sweeping views over the deep blue waters of Georgian Bay.

Build your dream home on this partially cleared & lovely treed waterfront property in this exclusive area of Silver Birch Beach, Georgian Bay. Year round location. Fabulous western exposure to take in the sunsets.

Custom Build your dream home in a prime location on the edge of the Escarpment. Walk to Alpine & Craigleith Ski clubs, Georgian Bay & Nipissing Ridge Tennis Courts. Full services at Lot line - Natural Gas, Municipal Water & Sewer.

Only 12 Lots left.

Dave Moyer* 519.379.1996

Ellen Jarman* 705.441.2630

Barb Picot* 705.444-.3452

Water views without the waterfront price tag or taxes! Spacious, bright bungalow in desirable neighbourhood with oversized rooms and separate garage + storage shed.

Ellen Jarman* 705.441.2630

Dave Armstrong*

Chris

Ellen Jarman*

John Kacmar**

Cynthia Razum*

Jennifer Ridsdale**

$249,000 - $319,000

Diana Berdini**

Michael Biggins**

Barbara Brunton*

Vanessa BurgessMason*

Gail Crawford*

Judy Crompton**

Mona Deschamps**

Heather Garner*

Debra Gibbon*

Read Hilton*

Martin Kilby***

Stefanie Kilby*

Anita Lauer*

Cheryl MacLaurin**

Joan Malbeuf**

Sue Mallett*

Rob McAleer*

Dave Moyer**

Barbara Picot*

Ron Picot*

Lori Schwengers**

Ralph Schwengers*

Chris Stevenson*

Gary Taylor**

Barbara Thompson*

Brendan Thomson*

Carol Whyne*

Paige Young*

Sandee Roberts***

David Rowlands***

*

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Pick up Chestnut Park’s INVEST IN STYLE: Cottage Life Issue magazine at select locations from the Bay to the Bruce, or see a full digital version at www.investinstyle.ca.

**

BROKER

BUYERS… GET TOP-NOTCH EXPERTISE IT’S A COMPETITIVE MARKET TRUST CLAIRWOOD IT’S ABOUT VALUE......

CAN YOU REALLY AFFORD NOT TO CHOOSE CLAIRWOOD REAL ESTATE??

EMMA BAKER**

JACKI BINNIE*

GERRY MCINTYRE*

CHRIS MOFFATLYNCH*

Emma@ SellingBlueMountain.com

GerardMcintyre@ icloud.com

Jacki.Binnie@ gmail.com

KIMBERLY BRINE*

HELEN LIGHTBODY*

MICHAEL MAISH

KAREN POSHTAR*

SHERRY RIOUX**

CHERYL WEATHERALL*

KimberlySells@live.ca

KPoshtar@rogers.com

Chris@LynchHomes.ca

MAUREEN GOWANS***

MaureenGowans@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

BRENDA CROWDERº

BrendaCrowder@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

Helen@ HelenLightbody.com

SherryRioux@ rogers.com

JANICE ATKINSONº

Contact.col@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

Michael@ MichaelMaish.com

CherylWeatherall@ gmail.com

SUSAN BREENº

MELANIE MCBRIDE* MelMcb@gmail.com

ANNE YOUNG*

AnneSpencerYoung@ gmail.com

ALMIRA HAUPTº

Contact.col@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

RiouxBakerTeam@ gmail.com

* Salesperson ** Broker *** Broker of Record ºAdministration

TOLL FREE 877.445.7085 COLLINGWOOD 705.445.7085

TO L L

TORONTO 1.877.445.7085

FRE E

BEAVER VALLEY 705.445.7085

877. 4 45. 7085

SELLERS… IT’S A HOT MARKET TAKE ADVANTAGE LIST NOW Testimonial

Admiral School District 3 bdrms., 1 bath, 1127 sq. ft. fin. $415,000 Emma Baker** 705-444-3989

Apartment Potential 3+1 bdrms., 2 baths, 1757 sq. ft. $425,000

Emma Baker** 705-444-3989

“Helen was a pleasure to work with on our recent purchase of a property. Friendly, efficient, and very responsive in dealing with any issues that arose. Helen was also very helpful afterwards, with referrals to various contractors and specialists. I would certainly recommend her to anyone looking to buy a property.” Peter Helen Lightbody* 519-477-1144

Lockhart Meadows

3 bdrms., 2.5 baths, 2075 sq. ft. fin. $480,000

Sherry Rioux** 705-443-2793

MARKET LISTINGS

Testimonial

“From start to finish, Michael was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.

We would absolutely recommend him to anyone that is looking to buy or sell a property.” Jordan Michael Maish* 705-606-5814

22%

Blue Mountain Resort

Mountain and Bay View

Melanie McBride* 519-670-6357

Gerry McIntyre* 705-888-5033

Bachelor, Sleeps 4, 1 bath, Full kitchen. $129,900

≠

5 bdrms., 3.5 baths, 2800 sq. ft. $1,495,000

Testimonial

MARKET SALES

23%

≠

Summer is Coming

Peaks Meadows Building Lot

Karen Poshtar* 705-443-0351

Sherry Rioux** 705-443-2793

Seasonal Rentals wanted.

I have tenants.

80.05’ x 197.8’ $250,000

“My wife and I were very pleased with Chris’s support and assistance as he guided us to the purchase of our new home.

He was diligent, attentive to our needs, listened to our feedback and never gave up trying to find us the right place. He fully deserves our support and recommendation.”

Lloyd Chris Moffat-Lynch* 705-606-0850

Testimonial

Solar Income

7+1 bdrms., 3.5 baths, 5159 sq. ft. fin. $1,590,000

“We were thoroughly impressed with Kimberly’s professional approach, her level of integrity and strategic understanding of the real estate market. Our home sold in record time, at an excellent price and she negotiated the exact closing date we requested. We highly recommend Kimberly Brine for anyone selling their home.” Carol and Steff

DAYS ON MARKET

25%◊

Build Your Dream Home Lora Bay, 71.16 x 150

$150,000 T O L Kimberly L FBrine*R416-708-6644 E E 8 7 7 . 4 4 5 . 7 0 8Cheryl5Weatherall* 519-373-6664 Anne Young* 705-994-2566 C L A I R W O O D R E A L E S TAT E . C O M

MEMBER OF THE SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ® AND THE TORONTO REAL ESTATE BOARD

Visit us at ClairwoodRealEstate.com

≠ SGBAR Market Report Feb 2017 YTD vs Feb 2016YTD (Western Region) ◊ SGBAR Market Reports Feb 2017 vs Feb 2016 (Western Region)

Residential

Commercial

Luxury

COMMERCIAL

Serving all of Southern Nobody in the Georgian Bay with world sells more real estate than offices in Collingwood, Thornbury and Stayner RE/MAXÂŽ four seasons realty limited, Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated *sales representative **broker ***broker of record

67 First St., Collingwood 705-445-8500 47 Bruce St., Thornbury 519-599-2600 202 Montreal St., Stayner 705-428-4500

CLOSE TO SKIING, LAKE & GOLF Private 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath estate home.

25 AC NIAGARA ESCARPMENT RETREAT

4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath, 2 storey home.

WINDFALL

50 ACRES – GREAT LOCATION Hike to Duncan Escarpment Prov Nature Reserve.

Rentals available – annual.

$2,450,000 MLS®#1618340

$1,450,000 MLS®#1627624

$315,000 MLS®#1625954

Starting at $2,200

Coral Robinson** 705-446-4748

Todd Brooker**

Alan Robert Ewing* 705-444-9778

Bob Allan* 705-606-0166

DEVIL’S GLEN

Charming 4 bedroom, 2 bath 200 sq ft chalet.

705-888-1818

4 SEASON ENJOYMENT 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3 level townhouse.

CUSTOM BUILT CHALET

6 bedrooms. Over 3300 sq ft at Devil’s Glen.

SWISS MEADOWS 2 storey board and batten chalet, steps to Blue Mountain.

$595,000 MLS®#1701273

$499,000 MLS®#1626953

$475,000 MLS®#1627205

$469,000 MLS®#1626297

Blair Thompson** 705-446-8507

Dustin Doyon* 705-795-2727

Greg Grossmann* 705-443-7093

Rosanna Balloi* 705-606-0267

SPECTACULAR PIECE OF MOUNTAIN PARADISE

97 acres – unobstructed views of Georgian Bay.

$1,594,000 MLS®#1700274 Mark Veer**/ Mary Riopelle* 705-443-7911/705-446-5466

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL GIVE DEREK A CALL Derek Crespy** 705-441-0112

BREWSTER LAKE

Custom country retreat on 7.11 acres.

1.36 ACRE BUILDING LOT Panoramic views of Creemore hills & area.

CRANBERRY VILLAGE 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath

$725,000 MLS®#1703550

$249,000 MLS®#1700490

$299,900 MLS#NEW

Jean Rowe* 705-444-4035

Lorraine Champion* 705-441-3642

Judith Traynor** 705-446-8977

BRIARWOOD

2 bdrm, 2 ½ baths overlooking golf course.

1 ½ STOREY CHALET

5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2082 sq. ft.

$335,000 MLS®#1703553

$559,000 MLS®#1626950

Dennis Klinsky**/Karen Kalosza*

Blair Thompson** 705-446-8507

705-443-9794/705-607-6595

doug Gillis

Maddy Gillis

direct: 705.444.3853 doug@douggillis.ca

direct: 705.888.1616 maddy@maddygillis.ca

Sales Representative

Broker of Record* A track record of excellence

neW PRiCe

GeoRiGian Bay CluB

$895,000

119 old lakeshore Road Blue Mountains 5

3/1

3,455 Total FT2

$459,000

453 Hume st.

Building Lot

Commercial

alTa suBdivision

27 -/+ aCRes

$349,000

lot 53 alta Road

5

4/1

Collingwood

5,781 Total FT

2

4.3 +/- Acres

MounTain vieWs

Vacant Land

5 Buckingham Blvd.

Clearview

Building Lot

6

alTa suBdivision

4

103 alta Road Blue Mountains Building Lot

Building Lot

GeoRGian Bay CluB

121 Cortina Crescent

$1,199,000

148 stone Zack lane

Blue Mountains 5

6/1

Blue Mountains

4,900 Total FT

2

Building Lot

MounTain vieWs

GeoRGian Bay vieWs

$1,895,000

$799,000 Blue Mountains

5,500 Total Total FT2

Vacant Land

5 Acres +/-

sold

devil’s Glen

$279,000

Clarksburg

107 Camperdown Road

Blue Mountains

$459,000

$1,495,000

$1,849,000

192 alta Road

GeoRGian Bay CluB

neW PRiCe

alTa suBdivision

$399,000

3,340 Total Total FT2

lot 14 Timber leif Ridge

2,970 Total FT2

$1,000,000

185 Block 4 Mountain Road

Clarksburg

3/1

indusTRial

$2,500,000

3/1

$995,000

3

GeoRGian Bay CluB

4

sPeCTaCulaR valley vieWs

Grey Highlands

Building Lot

107 Timber leif Ridge

Clarksburg 4,395 Total Total FT2

235439 Grey Road 13

Clarksburg

$ 1,995,000

516689 7th line #4

Collingwood

$499,000

lot 26 7th line

Blue Mountains

$799,000

lot 15 Timber leif Ridge Clarksburg

GeoRGian Bay CluB

GReaT loCaTion

124 Margaret drive Blue Mountains 5

3/1

4,000 Total Total FT2

exCellenT loCaTion

$595,000

11 Cerberus Trail Clearview 4

2

2,000 Total FT2

100 Re/Max agents in Canada * Top 1999, 2000, 2002, 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2016.

$1,195,000

2 Buckingham Blvd.

Collingwood 4

4/1

4,650 Total FT2

795789 Grey Road 19 Collingwood Vacant Land

45+ Acres

www.douggillis.ca RE/MAX four seasons Doug Gillis & Associates Realty, Brokerage 67-A First Street, Collingwood

Direct:

705.444.3853

READER BUYING GUIDE For more information, link directly to Our Advertisers at www.onthebaymagazine.com ACCOMMODATION

FLOORING

LANDSCAPE/GARDEN

Pace Global Realty Inc., Brokerage Page 99

Georgian Bay Hotel & Conference Centre Page 87 The Corner Suites Page 35

Dean’s Carpet One Page 67 Global Alliance Home Improvement Products Page 63

13 Forty Landscape Supplies Page 80

Re/Max Four Seasons Realty Ltd., Brokerage Page 106, 107

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES Greenhawk Harness & Equestrian Supplies Page 94 Stayner Pet Centre Page 97 Tip to Tail Boarding, Grooming & Daycare Page 59

Kirby’s Complete Flooring Centre Page 60

FURNITURE Canuck Cedar Chairs Page 72 Orangeville Furniture Page 112 Tyme Home Custom Interiors Page 60

ART/PHOTOGRAPHY/GALLERIES BMFA Arts Centre Page 90 Bonnie Dorgello Jewellery & Paintings Page 90

GOLF Blue Mountain Golf & Country Club Page 79

Brights Gallery Page 90 Collingwood Art Supplies & Classes Page 90

Mad River Golf Club Page 25

Jeff Pratt Pottery Page 90 Meaford Hall & Cultural Centre Page 45 Owen Sounds Artists’ Co-op Page 90

Oslerbrook Golf & Country Club Page 68

Tara McLellan Graphic Designer Page 90 The Loft Gallery Page 90

HEALTH/BEAUTY/FITNESS

AUTO/SMALL ENGINE/ HEAVY EQUIPMENT

Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic Page 75

Bayside Sales Page 97 Grey County Auto and Marine Page 97

Hair Apothecary Studio Page 35

Kubota Page 111 McKee Muffler Page 97 Walkers Small Motors Page 61

CAMPS

Monterra Golf Page 55 Tomahawk Golf Course Page 35

Camelot Salon & Day Spa Page 72 Good Health Mart Collingwood Page 41 Scandinave Spa Page 73

HOBBIES & CRAFTS Collingwood Art Supplies & Classes Page 90 Hand Racing, R/C Track & Parts Shop Page 79

Blue Mountain Resorts Day Camps Page 13

HOME AUTOMATION

CIDERIES & BREWERIES

Red Brick Group Page 36

Thornbury Village Cider House Page 84

HOME DÉCOR/DESIGN

COMMUNITY SERVICES

FAD Farrow Arcaro Design Page 63

Collingwood G&M Hospital Foundation Page 10, 42, 87 Georgian Triangle Humane Society Page 88 Municipality of Meaford Page 46 mycollingwood.ca Page 40 My Friend’s House Page 41 Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society Page 89

Kitchen Painters Page 61 niche unique gifts & home décor Page 65

HOME IMPROVEMENT & SUPPLY A-1 Toilet Rentals Page 36 Belfor Property Restoration Page 97 Bill Brown Woodworking & Builders Supply Page 70

EVENTS

Clarksburg Contractors Ltd. Page 37

August 11, Save the Date, Collingwood G & M Hospital Page 87 Gibraltar 6 hr Relay Race Page 41

CRS Contractors Rental Supply Page 34

Jazzmania Page 35 Masquerade Furball Gala Page 88 Inflammation: The Silent Killer Seminar Page 41 Meaford Hall & Cultural Centre Page 45 mycollingwood.ca Page 40 The Blue Mountains Art Tour Page 90

FASHION/JEWELRY Bonnie Dorgello Jewellery & Paintings Page 90 D.C. Taylor Jewellers Page 15 Echo Trends Page 74 Elaine Dickinson’s Fashions Page 73 Envy Eyewear Page 94 Greenhawk Harness & Equestrian Supplies Page 94 Hildebrandt & Co. Indulgence Cashmere Page 94 Leuk Page 94

Enviroshake Roofing Page 67 Global Alliance Home Improvement Products Page 63 Hands for Hire Page 34 Kitchen Painters Page 61 Knights’ Home Building Centre Page 62 McMillan Millwork & Joinery Page 97 Peak Living Renovations Page 97

Bartel Property Care Page 75 Bloom ‘n Nursery & Tree Farm Page 80 Eagles Weed Control & Lawn Service Page 81 Environmental Pest Control Page 97 Garden Holistics Page 81 Garden Rescue by Heidi Page 78 Georgian Sprinklers Page 80 Green Earth Landscaping Page 77 Maxwell Garden Centre Page 71 Mulch-It Page 76 Riverside Greenhouses Page 81 Shouldice Designer Stone Page 55 Springscapes Landscaping & Lawn Care Page 81

Re/Max Four Seasons Realty Ltd., Brokerage Doug Gillis Page 27, 108 Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc., Brokerage Page 16, 17, 47 Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc. The Chris Keleher Team Page 3 Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc. Lifestyles North Team Page 29 Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage Basia Regan Page 49 Royal LePage Trinity Realty Inc., Brokerage Page 98 Royal LePage Trinity Realty Inc., Brokerage Jane Moysey & Lorraine McDonald Page 6

The Landmark Group Page 9 Williams Landscape Contracting + Design Page 78

Windstone Real Estate, Brokerage Page 100

MEDICAL/DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

Balmoral Place Retirement Community Page 53

Collingwood Dental Centre Page 43 Collingwood Sport Medicine and Rehabilitation Centre Page 44 Comly Eye Care Page 74

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Crestview Estates (Terra Brook Homes) Page 31 Mountaincroft (Grandview Homes) Page 21 Seasons on Little Lake (Hanson Development Group) Page 32

Culford Family Hearing Page 43 Dr. John Miller & Dr. Sam Goodman Family Dentistry Page 74 Dr. Robert McCoppen Family Dentistry Page 76 Drs. Hammond, Raymond & Cation Optometrists Page 77

The Residences of Peaks Bay Page 27

Erie Street Dental Page 72

Copper Blues Bar & Grill Page 85

Orthopaedic Sport Institute Page 75

Eggcitement Bistro Page 89

Wasaga Beach Denture Clinic Page 97

Lakeside Seafood & Grill Page 85

The Shipyards (Fram + Slokker) Page 7 Windfall (Georgian International) Page 23 Windrose (MacPherson Builders) Page 2

RESTAURANTS

The Grill at Lora Bay Page 84

PROFESSIONAL/FINANCIAL/LEGAL

The Huron Club Page 89

Barriston Law LLP Page 38 BDO Canada LLP, Chartered Accountants Page 46 Besse Merrifield & Cowan LLP, Law Firm Page 76 Brian Renken Professional Corporation, Barristers & Solicitors Page 36

The Pottery Page 52

Collins Barrow, Chartered Accountants Page 34 Desjardins Financial Security, Daniel White Page 97 LM Rourke, CPA Professional Corporation Page 49

TRAVEL

Meridian Credit Union Page 38 RBC Dominion Securities Wealth Management Page 64 Red Path Financial, Ian Mackay, Mortgage Broker Page 44

SEPTIC SERVICES Ardiel Septic Services Page 65 Mac Taylor Corporation Page 62

Marlin Travel Page 77 Secondary Ownership Group Page 62

TREES Bloom ‘n Nursery & Tree Farm Page 80 Clarke’s Tree Spade Services Page 79 Maple Leaves Forever Page 12

The Paint & Woodcare Co. Page 70 Van Dolder’s Home Team Custom Exteriors Page 50

Sorley & Still Barristers & Solicitors Page 64

RADIO

Georgian Bay Upholstery Page 97

Wrightway Renovations Page 39

102.9 The New Classical fm Page 4

Wayne Dziedzic Custom Upholstery Page 97

HOME SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

WINDOW FASHIONS

Blue Mountain Vacuum Page 70

Chestnut Park Real Estate Limited, Brokerage Page 101, 102, 103

Ashton’s Blinds, Draperies & Shutters Page 65

Paragon Home Inspections Page 97 Properties by Her Page 80 Storage Zone Page 97

Clairwood Real Estate Corporation, Brokerage Page 104, 105

UPHOLSTERY/FABRIC

Salnek’s Window Fashions & Accessories Page 11 Shades & Shutters Page 45 ON THE BAY

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COLLINGWOOD MUSEUM COLLECTION, X969.581.1

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Elephant Walk

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s early as 1890, elephants were paraded along the streets of Collingwood as travelling circuses made their way from town to town. Fred A. Hodgson, son of the well-known Collingwood architect and best-selling author Fred T. Hodgson, was a circus owner and agent with offices in New York City. Hodgson and his wife, Carrie, entertained circus colleagues in Collingwood, and elephants were reported to have been kept in the Hodgsons’ back yard when the circus was in town.

The Hodgsons resided at 637 Hurontario Street in

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a grand mansion across from Collingwood Collegiate Institute. A number of circus personnel, including John Ringling, owner of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, also spent time in the “off-season” at the Hodgson home, and neighbours recalled many impromptu circus performances breaking out on the property.

The building was later known as the Spike and Spoon Restaurant, followed by Renato’s Italian Restaurant. It now houses several local businesses. ❧ Sources: The Collingwood Museum; Heritage Collingwood

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