Uncategorized • 27 February 2026

Friday Wrap-Up šŸŽ„

 

Friday Wrap-Up šŸŽ„

A week of movement across the board…
results, momentum, and opportunities continuing to take shape.

āœ” SOLD — 15 Malkin Avenue
āœ” SOLD — 8845 Banting Avenue

LEASED UNITS!

āœ” 439 Viking Street
āœ” 3822 Dominion Road
āœ” 355 Ridge Road North

Well-positioned homes are still moving…
strategy continues to matter.

Now heading into the weekend with two open houses šŸ‘‡

šŸ” Sunday, Mar 1 | 12–2 PM
šŸ“ 394 Hummel Crescent — $699,900

Modern bungalow in a newer Lakeshore community.

Features:
• 2 beds | 2 baths
• Open-concept layout with large windows
• Quartz kitchen + centre island
• Primary with ensuite + walk-in closet
• Main-floor laundry with garage access
• Double garage + fenced yard + deck
• Unfinished basement with rough-in for future space

šŸ” Sunday, Mar 1 | 2–4 PM
šŸ“ 871 Burwell Street — $599,900

Raised bungalow with strong layout and future potential.

Features:
• 3 beds | 2 baths
• Bright open-concept main floor
• Kitchen with island + stainless steel appliances
• Primary with ensuite + walk-in closet
• Main-floor laundry
• Full basement with egress windows
• Attached garage + double driveway

Two solid options this weekend…
different price points, same opportunity to get into the market with quality homes.

If you’re out looking this weekend, stop by.

#FortErieRealEstate #NiagaraRealEstate #OpenHouse #SundayOpenHouse #FortErieHomes #NiagaraHomes #LakeshoreLiving #NewerHomes #BungalowLiving #RealEstateUpdate #HouseHunting #MoveInReady #ScarlettRealEstateGroup #BarbaraScarlett

Uncategorized • 26 February 2026

Thirsty Thursday… but make it dessertĀ 

 

Thirsty Thursday… but make it dessertĀ šŸ«

This one came from a simple idea…
I loved the amaretto from last week…
and I wanted something a little richer.

So here we are.
A Toasted Almond.

Creamy… smooth…
with that coffee + almond finish.

It’s one of those cocktails that could easily replace dessert…
or sit right beside it.

Recipe:
• 1 oz KahlĆŗa
• 1 oz Amaretto
• 1 oz Baileys (or cream liqueur)
• 3 oz milk (or cream if you want it richer)

Shake with ice
Top with cocoa, coffee, or both

Simple… and very good.

CheersĀ šŸ¤

Tag someone you’d share this with.

#ThirstyThursday #ToastedAlmond #CocktailRecipe #DessertCocktail #Kahlua #Baileys #Amaretto #NiagaraLiving #NiagaraRealEstate #FortErie #CocktailAtHome #EntertainingAtHome #SimpleRecipes #WeekendVibes #RealEstateLife

 

Uncategorized • 25 February 2026

There’s something so meaningful about helping someone close one chapter… and begin another. šŸ¤

There’s something so meaningful about helping someone close one chapter…
and begin another. šŸ¤

Cindy trusted me to guide her through the entire process — from selling her home to stepping into her dream homeĀ  and I don’t take that lightly.

Real estate is never just paperwork and negotiations.
It’s emotion.
It’s timing.
It’s patience.
It’s late-night questions and early-morning reassurance.

Cindy, thank you for your kind words and for allowing me to walk beside you every step of the way. Your gratitude means more than you know.

Helping you move forward was truly an honour. šŸ”āœØ

#forterie #niagararealestate #scarlettrealestategroup #century21niagara #homebuyers #homesellers #dreamhome #closingday #clientgratitude #realestatelife #localrealtor #trustedadvisor #movingforward #sold #testimonial

Uncategorized • 24 February 2026

Homemade Ricotta šŸ§€

Homemade Ricotta šŸ§€

Have you ever tried making something at home just to see if you could?

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of firsts — and this one surprised me.
Homemade ricotta. From milk to cheese. In my own kitchen.

I read a few recipes, compared notes, and landed somewhere in the middle.
Whole milk, a splash of cream, a little salt, heat, and lemon juice.
Then patience.

Watching it separate felt a bit like magic.
After straining and letting it rest, I ended up with ricotta that was incredibly creamy — fresh, light, and better than I expected.

I’m using this batch for crepe manicotti,
and I may need to make another because… taste testing happened.

There’s something really satisfying about slowing down and learning how everyday ingredients can turn into something special.

Have you ever made cheese at home — or is this on your ā€œone dayā€ list?
šŸ‘‡ I’d love to know.

#homecooking #homemadericotta #kitchenexperiments
#simplejoys #balancedliving #lifeinbalance #joyinthejourney
#slowlivingmovement #italianinspired #cookathome
#forterielife #forterie #forterieliving #niagararegion

Uncategorized • 23 February 2026

Ever plan a meal around something specific… only to realize it doesn’t quite fit the budget?

Ever plan a meal around something specific… only to realize it doesn’t quite fit the budget?

That moment when you think, ā€œI shouldn’t have to compromise.ā€

Buyers are feeling that same tension right now.

What we want in a home doesn’t always line up perfectly with what our budget allows. And that gap — between expectation and affordability — can create hesitation and frustration.

In my own kitchen, I’ve learned to adjust the recipe.
Sometimes that means swapping an ingredient.
Sometimes it means removing what’s less essential so I can afford what truly matters.

Home buying works the same way.

Every price range has must-haves and nice-to-haves.
When priorities are clear, decisions feel intentional — not disappointing.

Clarity replaces frustration.
And that’s when forward movement begins.

#HomeBuyingJourney #BuyerMindset #RealEstateAdvice #BudgetAndPriorities #SmartHomeSearch #NiagaraRealEstate #FortErieRealEstate #ScarlettRealEstateGroup #BarbaraScarlett

Uncategorized • 20 February 2026

Have you ever discovered a place because a client suggested it? šŸ½ļø

Have you ever discovered a place because a client suggested it? šŸ½ļø

Yesterday I was meeting with a client in St. Catharines, and they recommended lunch on 4th Avenue at Amore CaffƩ.

It’s a Mediterranean spot that’s been family-run for over 30 years — originally in another location — and now settled into this space.

I don’t have many photos because we were deep in conversation, but I ordered the blackened salmon salad, and my client had a chicken Caesar. Both were fresh, generous, and exactly what you want for a working lunch — flavourful but light enough to head back into the afternoon feeling good.

There’s something reassuring about a long-standing, family-operated restaurant. You can feel the consistency.

If you’re near 4th Avenue and looking for a solid lunch option, this one’s worth checking out.

Do you prefer lighter lunches when you’re working, or something more indulgent?
šŸ‘‡ I’d love to hear.

#stcatharines #niagararegion #niagaraeats
#mediterraneanfood #supportlocal
#balancedliving #lifeinbalance #joyinthejourney
#forterielife #forterie #forterieliving
#realestatelifestyle #lunchmeeting

Uncategorized • 20 February 2026

Friday Wrap-Up šŸŽ„

Friday Wrap-Up šŸŽ„

Another steady week across the Fort Erie market — strategic pricing, consistent activity, and opportunities continuing to take shape for both buyers and sellers.

āœ” Sold — 15 Malkin Avenue
This Lakeshore property has now sold. Well-positioned homes continue to move when pricing and presentation align with today’s market.

šŸ” Open Houses This Weekend

Saturday, Feb 21 | 12–2 PM
šŸ“ 8845 Banting Avenue — $599,900
A thoughtfully updated mid-century bungalow in Chippawa offering 3+1 bedrooms, 2 baths, updated kitchen with quartz, modern flooring, dedicated office space, bonus room, and a large lot with workshop. Move-in ready with flexible living.

Sunday, Feb 22 | 2–4 PM
šŸ“ 427 Williams Crescent — $525,000
Bungaloft townhome with main-floor primary, loft space, attached garage, and no condo fees.

Newer Homes Snapshot in Fort Erie

šŸ˜ 397 Garrison Road — New Construction Bungaloft Townhomes
Starting at $599,000–$599,900 (Phase III)
• Builder financing as low as 1.58% | 3 beds | 3 baths | attached garage

šŸ” 871 Burwell Street — $599,900
• Raised bungalow | 3 beds | 2 baths | approx. 1,360 sq. ft. | attached garage

šŸ” 407 Louisa Street — $719,900 (New Build)
• Bungalow | open-concept with fireplace | attached garage | Peace Bridge Village

šŸ” 394 Hummel Crescent — $699,900
• Bungalow | quartz kitchen | centre island | double garage

šŸ” 1050 Kettle Court — $799,000
• 4 beds | finished basement | composite deck | swim spa | double garage

Opportunities remain for buyers who are prepared — and for sellers who are aligned with today’s market conditions.

If you’re watching the market or planning a move this year, I’m here to help you navigate your next step.

#FortErieRealEstate #NiagaraRealEstate #FridayWrapUp #MarketUpdate #OpenHouse #Chippawa #FortErieHomes #NiagaraHomes #PeaceBridgeVillage #RealEstateUpdate

Uncategorized • 19 February 2026

Thirsty Thursday… with a twistĀ 

Thirsty Thursday… with a twistĀ šŸø

Somewhere between travel memories…
and being back in the kitchen…
this one made sense.

An Italian Margarita for National Margarita Day.

Tequila…
Amaretto…
a touch of citrus…

Shaken a little longer than usual…
just like I watched overseas…
because sometimes the small details
change the whole experience.

It’s simple…
but it lands.

One of those cocktails you make once…
and then again for friends.

Cheers to the weekend ahead.

—

šŸøĀ Italian Margarita
• 2 oz tequila
• 1.5 oz amaretto
• ¾ oz Cointreau (or triple sec)
• ¾ oz lime juice
• Salt rim

Shake well… pour over ice… enjoy.

Who are you sharing this with?—

#thirstythursday #margaritatime #italianmargarita #cocktailrecipe #homebartender #cocktailathome #nationalmargaritaday #niagaralifestyle #forterie #niagaraeats #drinkideas #weekendvibes #cocktailinspo #mixology #cheers

Behind the Business • 19 February 2026

Three Open Houses This Weekend in Fort Erie & Niagara Falls

I’m hosting three open houses this weekend across Niagara Falls and Fort Erie, and if you’re actively looking, this is a great chance to step inside and compare options in person.

Saturday, February 21 | 12–2 PM
8845 Banting Avenue, Niagara Falls
This brick bungalow offers 3+1 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,039 sq ft of above grade living space. The main floor is practical and bright, with additional finished space below for flexibility. Bungalows continue to be a popular choice for buyers who want functional living and long-term ease.

Sunday, February 22 | 12–2 PM
15 Malkin Avenue, Fort Erie
This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom side-split offers about 1,207 sq ft of living space. The layout provides separation between living areas while still feeling connected. Located close to local amenities and outdoor spaces, it’s a solid option for first-time buyers or those looking to right-size within Fort Erie.

Sunday, February 22 | 2–4 PM
427 Williams Crescent, Fort Erie
This freehold townhome features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,471 sq ft. With an attached garage and low-maintenance design, it’s well suited for buyers who want ownership without condo fees.

If you’re exploring Niagara or Fort Erie this weekend, I’d love to see you. Stop by one or all three and take a closer look. If you can’t make it, reach out and I’ll send the details directly.

Behind the Business • 19 February 2026

From Europe to Niagara: A New Appreciation for Character Homes

Last week I was away.

I left the Niagara Region in crisp cold air and layered snow… and returned to fog and rain. As most of us know, that kind of weather is not ideal for showings. Snow tends to highlight a home’s structure and setting. Rain can make everything feel heavier.

While I was away, I visited Amsterdam, Bruges, and Riga — three countries in nine days.

Each city carries its history through its architecture. Narrow canal homes, medieval brick buildings, Art Nouveau facades. What stood out most was the preservation. There is clear effort to maintain original structures, protect heritage, and integrate old buildings into modern living.

It made me think about our own market.

For the past 15 years, Niagara has experienced steady growth and significant new construction. New homes offer efficiency, open layouts, and modern finishes. They serve an important role in meeting demand.

But we also have character properties throughout the Niagara Region — homes with original trim, hardwood floors, solid brick exteriors, and craftsmanship that is difficult to replicate today. Many of these properties simply need thoughtful updates rather than full reinvention.

In Europe, preservation is expected. Here, it is sometimes overlooked.

There is value in understanding both:
• the function of new construction
• and the lasting appeal of established neighbourhoods and heritage homes

Markets move in cycles. Trends shift. But well-located character properties with strong bones continue to hold relevance.

Sometimes it just takes a different perspective — even a short trip abroad — to see what we already have at home.