The Return of the Shared Roof

In a world where housing prices soar and solitude often comes at a premium, families across Canada are rediscovering the strength of togetherness—under one roof. Multigenerational living, once seen as a relic of the past, is now a rising trend fueled by economic necessity, cultural tradition, and a renewed appreciation for intergenerational bonds. 

The Numbers Tell a Story 

According to Statistics Canada, the number of multigenerational households rose from 364,505 in 2001 to 441,750 in 2021—a 21.2% increase. By 2025, over 9.5 million Canadians are living in multigenerational or intergenerational setups. This isn’t just a blip—it’s a full-blown comeback. 

Affordability: A Roof Shared Is a Cost Halved 

With housing prices climbing and rental markets tightening, pooling resources has become a practical solution. Families are choosing to live together to: 

• Share mortgage or rent payments.
• Reduce utility and grocery costs.
• Avoid expensive childcare or eldercare services.

In cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where affordability is a daily struggle, backyard homes and shared dwellings are becoming lifelines. 

Tradition: Honouring Cultural Roots 

For many immigrant families, multigenerational living isn’t a trend—it’s tradition. Cultures from South Asia, East Asia, Latin America, and Southern Europe have long embraced the idea of elders, parents, and children cohabiting. It’s a model that values: 

• Respect for elders. 
• Collective decision-making.
• Cultural continuity through shared stories, meals, and rituals 

This resurgence is not just practical—it’s deeply personal. 

Togetherness: The Emotional Wealth of Proximity 

Beyond dollars and cents, there’s a richness in daily connection. Grandparents become built-in babysitters and bedtime storytellers. Parents gain support during life’s chaotic seasons. Children grow up with a deeper sense of identity and belonging. 

As one Vancouver resident put it, living steps away from his granddaughter is “an extraordinary blessing”. These homes become ecosystems of love, learning, and legacy. 

Innovative Solutions: Tiny Homes and Smart Design 

To meet the demand, communities are getting creative. Tiny home villages and backyard suites offer privacy without isolation. Thoughtful architecture balances shared spaces with personal retreats. Zoning laws are slowly adapting to accommodate these evolving needs. 

Challenges and Considerations 

Of course, multigenerational living isn’t without its hurdles: 

• Privacy concerns.
• Generational clashes. 
• Legal and zoning complexities. 

But with open communication and intentional design, many families are finding the rewards far outweigh the challenges. 

Conclusion: A Model for Resilience 

In today’s economic climate, multigenerational homes offer more than shelter—they offer stability, support, and soul. As families rethink what it means to thrive, the answer may lie not in more space, but in shared space. 

The comeback isn’t just about housing—it’s about heart.

As the final leaves fall across Toronto, so do housing prices. The city’s real estate market, once red-hot, is now in a strategic slowdown. According to Royal LePage, home prices in Toronto are projected to decline by 3% by the end of 2025, a reflection of high interest rates, cautious buyer behaviour, and a shrinking pool of qualified purchasers. While sales activity is slowly recovering from earlier lows, the gap between supply and demand remains wide. 

For buyers and sellers, November isn’t just about weathering the chill—it’s about mastering the art of negotiation in a market that rewards precision over speed. 

For Buyers: Leverage the Shift 

1. Target Motivated Sellers 

• With many homeowners eager—or even desperate—to sell, buyers have regained leverage. 
• Look for listings with multiple price reductions or long days on market. These signal flexibility. 

2. Negotiate Beyond the Price Tag 

• Ask for closing cost coverage, flexible possession dates, or included upgrades. 
• Sellers are more likely to agree to non-price concessions to preserve their asking price. 

3. Use Market Data to Justify Offers 

• Detached homes and condos are seeing the steepest declines. Use Royal LePage’s quarterly reports to support your offer strategy. 
• A well-researched bid shows seriousness and can soften resistance. 

4. Be Patient—but Prepared 

• With fewer bidding wars, buyers can take time to evaluate options. But when the right property appears, act decisively. 
• Pre-approval and a strong deposit still matter in signalling credibility. 

For Sellers: Adapt to Stay Competitive 

1. Price for Today’s Market 

• Overpricing is a fast track to stagnation. Royal LePage notes that Toronto’s market hasn’t rebounded as expected, despite declining interest rates. 
• Consider pricing just below market to generate urgency and attract serious buyers. 

2. Invest in Presentation 

• In a slower market, visuals matter. Professional staging, high-resolution photography, and compelling descriptions are essential. 
• Highlight features that align with buyer priorities—energy efficiency, remote work setups, and proximity to transit. 

3. Offer Incentives 

• Cover part of the buyer’s closing costs, include home warranties, or offer flexible terms. 
• These perks can make your listing stand out in a crowded field. 

4. Stay Open to Creative Offers 

• Lease-to-own, vendor take-back mortgages, or extended conditional periods may become more common. 
• Consult your agent or lawyer to evaluate these options—some may unlock hidden value. 

Where Buyers and Sellers Meet 

Toronto’s November market is a negotiation playground. Buyers have regained leverage, but sellers still hold value—if they’re willing to adapt. The key isn’t confrontation, it’s collaboration. Both sides benefit from transparency, flexibility, and a clear-eyed view of the market’s realities. 

With recessionary pressures, high interest rates, and a shrinking pool of buyers, the market is no longer about speed—it’s about precision. Whether you're buying your first condo or selling a family home, November is your moment to negotiate smarter, not harder.

As the golden leaves of Ontario fall and the chill begins to creep into Toronto’s air, homeowners know what’s coming: winter in the 6ix. And it’s not just about snowflakes and skating rinks—it’s about sub-zero temperatures, skyrocketing energy bills, and the risk of frozen pipes. 

Preparing your home now isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Here’s a thoughtfully crafted, checklist to winterize your Toronto home, combining practical advice with energy-saving hacks that will keep you cozy and cost-efficient all season long. 

1. Insulation: Your First Line of Defence 

Toronto winters can dip well below freezing, so insulation isn’t optional—it’s your shield. 

Attic & Roof

Heat rises, and without proper attic insulation, it escapes. Aim for R50 insulation or higher. 

Basement & Crawl Spaces

These areas are often overlooked but can be major sources of heat loss. 

Windows & Doors

Use weather stripping, caulking, and thermal curtains to seal drafts. 

Wall Insulation

If your home is older, consider blown-in insulation to improve thermal performance. 

Pro Tip: Use a thermal camera or hire an energy auditor to identify cold spots and insulation gaps.

2. Furnace & HVAC: Tune It Before You Need It 

Your furnace is the heart of your winter comfort. A breakdown in January? No thanks. 

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Ensure your furnace is clean, efficient, and safe. 

Replace Filters

Dirty filters reduce airflow and efficiency. Change them monthly during peak use. 

Check Thermostat Accuracy

Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and savings. 

Inspect Ductwork

Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of heated air. Seal and insulate them. 

Tip: Searching for “Toronto furnace maintenance” now can help you find local deals before the rush.

3. Energy-Saving Hacks That Actually Work 

Winter doesn’t have to mean outrageous utility bills. These hacks are Toronto-tested and wallet-approved. 

Smart Thermostats

Set schedules and monitor usage. Some models even learn your habits. 

LED Lighting

Shorter days mean more lights—switch to LEDs to cut costs. 

Zone Heating

Use space heaters in occupied rooms and lower the central thermostat. 

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Set them to clockwise to push warm air down. 

Unplug Phantom Power

Electronics still draw power when off. Use smart power strips. 

Bonus: Check out Ontario’s Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program for insulation and HVAC upgrades.

4. Exterior Prep: Protect What’s Outside Too 

Toronto’s freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior. 

Clean Gutters 

Prevent ice dams and water damage. 

Inspect Roof Shingles

Replace any that are cracked or missing. 

Drain Outdoor Faucets

Shut off and drain to avoid burst pipes. 

Cover AC Units

Protect them from snow and ice buildup. 

Local Insight: Toronto’s winter storms can be sudden—don’t wait until the first snowfall to act.

5. Emergency Kit & Backup Plans 

Even the best-prepared homes can face power outages or extreme weather. 

Stock Up

Flashlights, batteries, bottled water, blankets, and non-perishable food. 

Backup Heat Source

Consider a generator or wood-burning stove. 

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Essential when using alternative heating methods.  

Final Thoughts: Winter-Proofing Is Peace of Mind 

Toronto winters are beautiful—but brutal. By following this checklist, you’re not just protecting your home, you’re investing in comfort, safety, and long-term savings. Whether you're in a downtown condo or a detached home in the suburbs, winterizing now means fewer headaches later. Ready to take action? Bookmark this guide, share it with fellow Torontonians, and start ticking off your winter prep list today.

Toronto’s real estate market isn’t just about square footage and school zones—it’s also about storytelling. And few homes tell better stories than those steeped in history… or haunted by it. 

This October, buyers are increasingly drawn to properties with character, especially those that come with a whisper of mystery. Whether it’s the creak of century-old floorboards or tales of ghostly sightings, these homes offer something modern builds can’t: emotional connection. 

Toronto’s Most Haunted Historic Homes 

Casa Loma 

Toronto’s iconic Gothic Revival castle is more than a tourist attraction—it’s a paranormal hotspot. Staff and visitors have reported unexplained footsteps, flickering lights, and cold drafts. During October, Casa Loma transforms into the immersive Legends of Horror experience, but its real-life ghost stories linger year-round.

Mackenzie House 

Once home to Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie, this Georgian-style townhouse is considered one of the city’s most haunted. Visitors have reported phantom footsteps, mysterious piano music, and even sightings of Mackenzie himself. 

Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre 

This double-decker Edwardian theatre is not only a marvel of architecture—it’s also home to the “Lavender Lady,” a ghost said to haunt the stairwell. Staff have reported sudden temperature drops and the scent of lavender with no source in sight. 

Old City Hall 

A staple of Toronto’s civic history, Old City Hall is rumoured to be haunted by former inmates of its now-defunct jail cells. Paranormal investigators have noted strange sounds and shadowy figures in the building’s basement. 

Christie Mansion 

This Victorian-era home, once owned by the founder of Mr. Christie’s Cookies, is said to have a secret room where a woman was allegedly kept hidden. Though now part of the University of Toronto, the mansion still draws curiosity for its eerie past. 

The Allure of Haunted Heritage

Ghost stories don’t just haunt, they enchant. In a city layered with history, Toronto’s haunted homes offer more than bricks and mortar; they offer atmosphere. These properties whisper of past lives, long-lost secrets, and the kind of emotional gravity that can’t be replicated in a new build.

Whether it’s the flicker of candlelight against stained glass or the echo of footsteps forgotten hallway, these homes invite buyers to imagine, not just inhabit. They’re not just places to live, but places to wonder.

And while heritage designations and upkeep may come with their own challenges, for those drawn to mystery, the reward is a home that feels alive with story.

Final Thoughts 

Toronto’s haunted homes aren’t just spooky—they’re spectacular. They offer buyers a chance to own a piece of the city’s soul. This October, embrace the mystery, lean into the history, and we hope you find a home that speaks to you… even if it whispers.

But if ghost stories aren’t your thing and you’d rather skip the spectral roommates, don’t overlook the city’s heritage – designated properties. Take some time to explore these places we have listed in this article as it will be worth the look especially this Fall season. 

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their golden descent, September marks a pivotal moment for homeowners looking to sell. Autumn listings offer a unique window of opportunity—buyers are eager to settle before winter, and homes bathed in fall light can look especially inviting. But timing is everything, and preparation is key. 

At Toste & Co, we know that a well-prepped home can mean the difference between a quick sale and a lingering listing. This guide walks you through the essential steps to get your property market-ready before the season changes.

1. Seasonal Maintenance: First Impressions Start Outside 

Before the camera clicks or the listing goes live, your home needs to shine—literally and figuratively. Here is a quick maintenance checklist:

- Gutter Cleaning & Roof Check: Falling leaves can clog gutters fast. Clear them out and inspect the roof for missing shingles or signs of wear. 

- Window Washing: Autumn sunlight is softer, but it still highlights smudges. Clean windows inside and out for a sparkling finish. 

- Yard Prep: Rake leaves, trim hedges, and refresh mulch beds. A tidy yard signals a well-maintained home. 

- HVAC Tune-Up: Buyers often ask about heating systems. Schedule a furnace inspection and replace filters to show your home is winter-ready. 

- Exterior Touch-Ups: Repaint chipped trim, power wash siding, and ensure outdoor lighting is functional—especially as days get shorter. 

2. Photography: Capture the Warmth of Fall

Great photography sells homes. September’s natural lighting and vibrant foliage offer a stunning backdrop—if you know how to use it. Here are some tips on how to capture that Autumn glow: 

- Golden Hour Advantage: Schedule exterior shots during early morning or late afternoon for warm and flattering light. 

- Stage with Seasonal Accents: Think tasteful autumn wreaths, cozy throws, and subtle pumpkin décor. Avoid anything too theme-heavy. 

- Highlight Outdoor Spaces: Showcase patios, decks, and fire pits as ideal spots for fall gatherings. 

- Professional Touch: Invest in a real estate photographer who understands seasonal composition and lighting. Smartphone snaps won’t cut it. 

3. Timing: List Before the Market Cools 

September is a strategic sweet spot. Families have settled into school routines, and serious buyers are still active before the holiday slowdown. Here are some timing tips:

- Weekday Listings Work: Homes listed mid-week often get more weekend showings. Aim for a Tuesday or Wednesday launch. 

- Price It Right: Fall buyers are motivated but cautious. Work with your agent to set a competitive price based on current market data. 

- Plan for Quick Turnaround: With winter looming, buyers want fast closings. Have your paperwork, inspections, and disclosures ready to go. 

Final Thoughts: Sell Smart 

Selling in September isn’t just about beating the snow—it’s about showcasing your home at its most inviting. With the right maintenance, compelling visuals, and strategic timing, you can attract buyers who are ready to move before the frost sets in. 

At Toste & Co, we’re here to guide you through every step—from prepping your property to negotiating the final offer. Let’s make this fall your season of sold. 

Why September Is Prime Time for Family Moves 

As children return to classrooms and parents resume routines, September marks more than just the start of a new school year—it’s also a strategic moment in the Canadian real estate calendar. For families, the back-to-school season often doubles as a key window for relocation, driven by one powerful factor: school catchment areas. 

The Catchment Area Effect 

School catchment areas are geographic zones that determine which school a child is eligible to attend. This has become one of the most influential forces in family home buying across Canada. Parents are increasingly prioritizing access to high-performing schools, often willing to pay a premium or compromise on other home features to secure a spot in a desirable district. 

Key impacts of catchment areas on buying decisions are: 

- Property Value Premiums: Homes within top-rated school zones often command higher prices and sell more quickly. 

- Limited Inventory: Demand spikes in these areas, especially in late summer and early autumn, creating competitive markets. 

- Long-Term Planning: Families may purchase years in advance to ensure future access to preferred schools. 

Timing Moves Around the Academic Calendar 

The academic calendar doesn’t just shape children’s routines—it shapes real estate strategy. 

Families often aim to move in late summer or early autumn to: 

- Minimize Disruption: Starting the school year in a new home helps children settle into routines and build social connections. 

- Align with Enrolment Deadlines: Many school boards have strict registration cutoffs tied to residency. 

- Capitalize on Market Cycles: While spring is traditionally hot for real estate, autumn offers a second surge—especially for family-focused buyers. 

Emotional & Practical Drivers 

Beyond logistics, the emotional weight of school choice plays a major role. Parents view education as a cornerstone of opportunity, and buying a home becomes an investment in their child’s future. This mindset fuels urgency and decisiveness in September, as families race to align their housing with academic goals. 

What This Means for Sellers & Agents 

For Canadian real estate professionals, understanding the back-to-school buying mindset is key: 

- Highlight School Proximity: Listings near reputable schools should emphasize catchment details. 

- Market in Late Summer: Target family buyers with tailored messaging in August and September. 

- Educate Buyers: Help families navigate school district boundaries and enrollment policies. 

Final Thoughts 

September isn’t just about pencils and planners—it’s about property. As families prioritize education, school catchment areas become powerful motivators for relocation. The result? A seasonal surge in family-focused home buying that reshapes neighbourhoods and drives demand. 

Whether you're a parent planning a move or a seller looking to attract the right buyer, understanding the academic calendar’s influence on Canadian real estate can make all the difference.

We at Toste & Co are always ready to help and discuss your next family move with keeping academic goals in mind! 

As the sun begins its slow descent and summer winds into its final stretch, a golden window opens for Canadian homeowners considering a sale. While many wait for spring’s buzz, seasoned sellers know that late summer offers a unique blend of urgency, visibility, and market readiness. 

If you’re aiming to list your property before the leaves turn, the final weeks of summer could be your sweet spot. 

Here’s how to make the most of this transitional season and elevate your home’s appeal before the back-to-school chaos and cooler temps set in. 

Why Late Summer is a Prime Selling Season in Canada 

Buyer Urgency Is Peaking 

Families want to settle before the new school year, relocations are wrapping up, and summer buyers feel the pressure to make decisions before fall inventory rolls in. 

Curb Appeal Is at Its Peak 

Lush landscaping, bright skies, and warm lighting create a naturally inviting exterior—perfect for first impressions. 

Less Competition, More Visibility 

With fewer listings than spring and early summer, your well-priced home stands out and attracts serious buyers rather than casual browsers. 

End-of-Summer Selling Tips for Canadian Homeowners 

1. Leverage Canadian-Specific Market Data

- Use local real estate trends from your city or province to price competitively. 

- Consult your REALTOR® for a Comparative Market Analysis using recent summer closings. 

2. Stage for Seasonal Warmth 

- Decorate with late-summer textures like cotton throws, fresh flowers, and soft lighting. 

- Keep patios and decks spotless—buyers love outdoor spaces this time of year. 

3. Update Key Features Before You List

- Touch up paint, reseal driveways, and ensure HVAC systems are functioning—these make your home move-in ready. 

- Highlight energy-efficient upgrades—especially important as temperatures begin to drop in many regions. 

4. Be Transparent About School Zones & Transit

- For families, access to reputable schools in Ontario, British Columbia or Alberta can seal the deal. 

- Promote proximity to public transport hubs where applicable. 

5. Market the Lifestyle, Not Just the Home

- Showcase photos of your property during sunrise or sunset for stunning visuals. 

- Add keywords to your listing like “late summer move-in”, “seasonal charm”, or “back-to-school ready”. 

The Final Stretch: Sell Before the Season Shifts 

As Canadian real estate prepares for its autumn pivot, sellers who act now can ride the last wave of summer demand. With strategic pricing, polished presentation, and a bit of market insight, your home can grab attention and offers—before pumpkin-spiced everything takes over. 

Ready to list or want insights tailored to your region? Reach out to a licensed agent or explore real-time stats for Canadian cities to work on your best-selling plan. We at Toste & Co are always ready to help! 

In the fast-moving landscape of Canadian real estate, pricing a home is no longer just a matter of personal sentiment – it’s a strategic decision that can make or break your sale. Too often, sellers list with their hearts instead of their heads, clinging to a number that feels right rather than one that’s supported by the market. The consequences?

Lost momentum, dwindling interest, and ultimately, a price lower than you hoped for. This article is an insider’s plea to help sellers avoid the emotional trap of overpricing and embrace a smarter path forward.

The High Cost of Overpricing Your Home 

If I could whisper just one truth into the ear of every home seller in Canada, it would be this: overpricing your home can cost you far more than you expect. In a housing market already balancing on tight margins, a too-optimistic listing price isn’t a power move—it’s a slow leak in your strategy. 

The Market Doesn’t Wait for Wishful Thinking 

Canadian buyers are savvy. Thanks to MLS listings, market reports, and endless scrolling through real estate apps, they're well-versed in what a home “should” cost. An overpriced property sits. And sits. And sits. 

While you wait for someone to bite, your neighbours are selling. Momentum builds around comparable listings—not yours. That long "days on market" number becomes your biggest liability. Buyers start wondering if there’s something wrong with the home. Eventually, price drops follow, but the damage is done. You’ve lost your chance to wow in those first two weeks—the golden window. 

Overpricing = Underperforming 

It may sound counterintuitive, but pricing your home fairly—based on data and reality, not sentiment or sunk costs—often leads to stronger offers and even bidding wars. Canadian cities like Barrie, Halifax, or Kelowna have seen homes priced right fetch more than those that aimed too high from the start. Why? Because perception matters. Value draws attention. Attention creates competition. 

Holding Out Isn’t Free 

Every extra week your home sits unsold carries a price tag: 

- Mortgage payments continue 

- Property taxes accrue 

- Insurance remains active 

- Staging and upkeep costs mount 

And that’s not counting the psychological cost—the nagging stress, uncertainty, and plans put on hold. 

Sellers, Be Strategic, Not Sentimental 

It’s tempting to believe your home is worth that magic number. After all, you’ve loved it, invested in it, dreamed big. But the market doesn’t measure emotional equity. It measures demand, location, condition, and price. If you truly want the best return, listen to your agent, not your ego. Get a professional appraisal. Study your local market. Look at recent sales, not old listings. 

The Takeaway 

In Canada’s ever-shifting housing climate, realism sells. Pricing your home right isn’t “leaving money on the table”—it’s setting the table for success.

Summer in Canada is all about soaking up the sun, spending quality time outdoors, and keeping kids entertained in healthy, engaging ways. Forget the screens—your backyard is bursting with possibilities! 

Whether it’s a birthday bash, an impromptu weekend gathering, or simply a way to burn off some extra energy, these kid-approved backyard games promise excitement, laughter, and unforgettable fun. Ready to transform your lawn into the ultimate play zone? Let’s dive into the most imaginative, active, and accessible games your kiddos will be begging to play again and again. 

1. Balloon Pop Relay 

This lighthearted twist on the traditional relay race adds thrill and laughter. Kids must race to a designated spot and sit on a balloon to pop it before tagging the next teammate. 

Why it rocks

- Great for all ages 

- Promotes teamwork and coordination 

- Easy setup with minimal supplies 

2. Watermelon Bowling 

Set up ten empty 2L pop bottles filled partially with water. Use a small watermelon as a bowling ball, and let the strikes and giggles roll! 

Why it rocks

- Refreshingly Canadian twist on bowling 

- Encourages gross motor skills 

- Perfect for hot days 

3. Nature Scavenger Hunt 

Hand each child a printable list of items to find in the backyard—like pinecones, leaves of certain shapes, bugs, or feathers. Add little prizes for completed lists! 

Why it rocks

- Combines learning with play 

- Builds observation skills 

- Reinforces curiosity about nature 

4. Splash Tag 

Swap the usual game of tag for splash-style fun! Whoever is “It” will use a sponge soaked in water to tag others. Lightweight and hilarious in warmer weather! 

Why it rocks

- A refreshing twist on tag 

- Safe, active water play 

- Encourages giggling and movement 

5. Pool Noodle Javelin 

Set up a target area and let kids throw pool noodles like javelins. Use chalk circles or hula hoops as bullseyes! 

Why it rocks

- No sharp edges, super safe 

- Encourages aim and strength 

- Easy to modify for different ages

6. Cardboard Castle Build-Off 

Hand out old boxes, tape, and scissors (supervised) and let kids compete to build the most creative backyard forts or castles. 

Why it rocks

- Sparks creativity and teamwork 

- Eco-friendly reuse of materials 

- Fantastic for imaginative play 

7. Giant Puzzle Race 

Create oversized puzzles by drawing and cutting up poster boards. Kids race to complete them under a timer—solo or in teams. 

Why it rocks

- Mixes problem-solving with physical play 

- Can be customized to any theme 

- Great for all weather conditions 

Unplug, Laugh & Play: The Joy of Backyard Fun 

With these kid-approved backyard games, you're not just fighting boredom—you’re building joy, movement, and imagination right outside your door. Whether you go for messy, splashy, crafty, or competitive, these ideas turn your home’s outdoor space into a haven for laughter and active bonding. So, grab your sunscreen, gather the little ones, and let the adventures begin—right in your own backyard!

Summer is the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and make unforgettable memories. But before you pack your bags and head out, it's crucial to ensure your home is safe and secure. A vacant house can be an easy target for burglars, water damage, and other unexpected issues. 

Here’s how to vacation-proof your home so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind. 

Lock Down the Basics 

Before you leave, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. This includes: 

Main entry doors: Reinforce with deadbolts and strike plates. 

Sliding doors: Use a security bar or rod in the track. 

Basement and garage windows: Often overlooked, but vulnerable. Consider upgrading to smart locks or keyless entry systems for added security and remote access. 

Make It Look Like You're Home 

A home that appears lived-in is less likely to attract unwanted attention. Try these strategies: 

Use timers for lights: Set them to mimic your usual routine. 

Pause mail and newspaper delivery: Or ask a neighbour to collect them. 

Ask a friend to park in your driveway: It gives the illusion someone is home. 

Smart home systems can automate lighting, blinds, and even TVs to simulate activity. 

Invest in Home Security Technology 

Modern security systems offer real-time monitoring and alerts. Look for: 

Smart cameras: Indoor and outdoor models with motion detection. 

Video doorbells: See and speak to visitors from anywhere. 

Alarm systems: Choose one with 24/7 monitoring and mobile notifications. Many insurance providers offer discounts for homes with security systems—check with yours before you travel. 

Prep Your Property 

A neglected yard can signal that no one’s home. Keep your exterior tidy: 

Mow the lawn before you leave: Or hire a landscaping service. 

Trim hedges and shrubs: Especially near windows and doors. 

Secure outdoor items: Lock up bikes, tools, and patio furniture. If you have a pool, ensure it's covered and maintained to avoid issues while you're away. 

Prevent Water Damage 

Water leaks can be just as devastating as a break-in. Take these precautions: 

Shut off the main water valve: Especially for longer trips. 

Inspect pipes and hoses: Look for signs of wear or leaks. 

Install a smart water sensor: It can alert you to leaks in real time. If you’re away for more than a week, consider having someone check on your home periodically. 

Unplug and Protect 

Reduce fire risk and save energy by unplugging non-essential electronics: 

TVs, computers, and small appliances: These can be power vampires. 

Surge protectors: Use them for devices you must leave plugged in. 

Thermostat: Set it to an energy-efficient temperature or use a smart thermostat to control it remotely. 

Enlist Trusted Help 

A trusted neighbour or friend can be your eyes and ears while you're away

Peace of Mind While You’re Away 

Taking the time to vacation-proof your home means you can truly relax, knowing you’ve done everything to protect your property. From locking down entry points and simulating activity, to investing in smart technology and enlisting trusted help. These small yet essential steps add up to big peace of mind. So go ahead, plan your adventure, make lasting memories, and come back to a safe and sound home.