Riding the Wave
May 19, 2020
Muskoka’s Real Estate health during COVID-19
It’s about finding your balance
Riding Muskoka’s Real Estate wave during COVID-19 has been a bit like learning to wakesurf—it’s all about finding your balance.
Dolf and I are hanging in there. In fact, we’re up for the challenge. But there’s no doubt the Muskoka market is changing and will change again—perhaps many times—before this global pandemic is over.
Best Practices
Best practices for Buying and Selling houses and cottages have been top-of-mind for all Royal LePage agents. We’ve been moving quickly to adapt. Brokerage and Real Estate Services are deemed “essential” by the Ontario Government, but we’re learning new guidelines daily to flatten the curve and stop community spread. We’re dedicated to everyone’s safety.
As Realtors, how are we finding the right balance?
Extraordinary Times, Extraordinary Measures
In-person showings are still happening and, as a result, new and extraordinary measures have been adopted to mitigate spread and enhance safety. For example, strict protocols are in place, including hand-sanitizing, distancing, health screening, restrictions on the number of people in a home at one time, and a limit to the number of showings in a 24-hour period. Dolf and I are adhering to these protocols; we’re keen to run through all of these practices with you if you are thinking about Buying or Selling this spring or summer.
Impacts on the Market
As a Buyer or Seller, you may be asking yourself: What’s the state of the Canadian Real Estate Market?
Dolf and I have been tracking the situation closely.
Before the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic on March 11, the spring real estate market was set for a record-breaking sales season. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, the month of February was particularly hot for year-over-year sales, which rose 27% across Canada. Low supply and high demand drove up prices. By all accounts, it was a tight Sellers’ market.
In Muskoka this trend proved true here as well, January started 2020 off with high activity in residential sales compared to the past few years. Despite this strong start, market activity in March and April has slowed due to COVID-19. Buyers and Sellers both are reluctant to jump in, and it’ll take time for the waters to calm down again.
But let’s remember:
There are Buyers and Sellers out there who are highly motivated. The reality is that some people need to relocate for work, or they’re looking to downsize or upsize quickly. There is a need and demand for all types of properties throughout Muskoka. Even though real estate market activity is down, it's not plummeting, and we feel like a rebound is on the horizon.
And now it's feel like we are nearing the end of the tunnel, a glimpse of light is shinning through, with government restrictions slowly being lifted and businesses planning for re-opening.
So stay tuned as we head (opportunistically) into June. Dolf and I are keeping a close eye on the evolving situation. In the meantime, maybe we’ll perfect our wakesurfing—we’re getting good at finding our balance.
— Anzie Witlox on behalf of Dolf and Anzie
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The Real Estate industry these days is a complex one, so choosing your Real Estate brokerage and Realtor® to represent you is a very important decision. We have been helping you with Real Estate for the past 30 years. We made the decision to join the RE/MAX Professionals North Brokerage 3 years ago and we couldn't be happier because we feel so confident in our RE/MAX team. It is very important for us to have a solid foundation and to be a part of a team that shares our core values which allows us to provide the highest quality service to our clients. The RE/MAX name holds a lot of weight, it comes with a long-standing reputation of professionalism, expertise, and kindness. It's no wonder why RE/MAX Professionals North Brokerage has been leading the industry for the first half of 2023.
One of the biggest questions to ask yourself before you even begin the real estate process is; 'How do I know I am working with the right Realtor?' Press play above and find out how you can evaluate your Realtor and make sure they are a right fit for your needs. Dolf and Anzie Witlox Dolf - 705.787.6196 Anzie - 705.571.0587 info@dolfandanzie.com
We want to take this opportunity to send our warmest wishes to you and your family this holiday season. May your homes be filled with laughter and your hearts full of love. Dolf and Anzie Witlox Dolf - 705.787.6196 Anzie - 705.571.0587 info@dolfandanzie.com
We are pretty sure that when we say ‘we are excited for summer’, that we aren’t alone in that sentiment. It’s been a long chilly winter here in Muskoka, and now that the warmer temperatures are here we are all looking into the next few months with anticipation, planning our summer days to make the best of the season. Loving Life in Muskoka for more than 35 years, we have experienced many amazing times, so we thought we would share some favourites with you to help plan your upcoming Muskoka adventures and make this your best summer ever! The beauty about Muskoka is that there is literally something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing night out to enjoy the flavours of local cuisine, or you are yearning for something a bit more adventurous, you’ll find it here in Muskoka. For the Adventure Seekers Nature, wilderness and the great outdoors is what Muskoka is all about! So for an epic family adventure that everyone will remember check these out: Cruise Lake Muskoka on the famous steamships RMS Segwun and Wenonah II departing from the Wharf in Gravenhurst. Take a self-guided canoe trip through a curvy river or paddle to a scenic waterfall for a picnic. I mean.. who doesn’t love a picnic? Walk amongst the trees for an epic tree top trek or zip-liningexperience at aerial parks in Bracebridge or Huntsville. For the Foodie Muskoka is known for its food and drink offerings from craft beer to mouth-watering local cuisine, there is so much to choose from. While you are here in Muskoka this summer experience: Local Farmer’s Markets offer your favourite oh so tasty in-season fruits and vegetables, plus you will surely find unique souvenirs, works of art & hidden gems to take home with you. Tours of all sorts including brewery, coffee roastery or winery experiencing a flavourful and educational experience. Enjoy the incredible tastes of Muskoka’s culinary scene with a compilation of must-try restaurants, cafes and eateries. For the Creative Minds Muskoka area has a rich arts and cultural scene with many entertaining ways to get up close and personal with the creative side of the area: Jump on self-guided gallery tours - where you can meet local artists, even find that perfect treasure, gift or masterpiece The summer lineup of concerts and theatre performances at Muskoka venues is top notch, truly something for everyone. We hope you make the most of every summer moment. Local or visiting in Muskoka, there is always something awesome to do!
