Selling Too Soon — The Hidden Cost of Short-Term Decisions

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 11, 2026

Selling Too Soon — The Hidden Cost of Short-Term DecisionsIn a depreciating or flat market, the cost of selling too soon becomes more visible. Buyers often assume equity equals profit, but transaction costs, mortgage insurance, and higher interest rates can quickly erase gains. The Niagara example of a 2022 purchase followed by a 2025 sale […]

The 5-Year Rule — Why Time Matters More Than Timing

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 10, 2026

The 5-Year Rule — Why Time Matters More Than TimingFinancial professionals often reference the “5-year rule” when discussing real estate, and for good reason. In Niagara, history shows that homeowners who remain in their property for at least five years tend to recover transaction costs and build meaningful equity. Equity grows in two ways: mortgage […]

Do you ever go out for dinner and come home inspired to cook? 🦞🍲

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 9, 2026

Do you ever go out for dinner and come home inspired to cook? 🦞🍲 Do you ever go out for dinner and come home inspired to cook? 🦞🍲 Over the Christmas weekend, we met a group of friends for dinner at @tideandvine . What I didn’t realize until that night was that they also have […]

Two opportunities to step inside very different lifestyles — both open this weekend.

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 9, 2026

Two opportunities to step inside very different lifestyles — both open this weekend. Two opportunities to step inside very different lifestyles — both open this weekend. 🏡 32 Sunrise Court | Ridgeway $799,900 📅 Saturday, Jan 11 | 12–2 PM A well-designed bungalow in one of Ridgeway’s most established neighbourhoods. Vaulted ceilings. Fireplace + sunroom. […]

Mortgage Rates in Context — What Matters More Than the Number

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 9, 2026

Mortgage Rates in Context — What Matters More Than the NumberMortgage rates often dominate real estate conversations, especially at the start of a new year. Buyers fixate on rate drops. Sellers worry higher rates will stop activity altogether. But in reality, rates are only one part of the decision-making framework. As we enter 2026, borrowing […]

Classic Negroni Cocktail | A Bold, Stiff Drink for Martini Lovers | Thirsty Thursday

By Barbara Scarlett | Jan 8, 2026

Classic Negroni Cocktail | A Bold, Stiff Drink for Martini Lovers | Thirsty Thursday This one’s not subtle. And it’s definitely not a cosmo. With Alex and Adam driving home after a long ski trip, I figured this was the right moment for a proper martini-drinker’s cocktail. A Negroni. Strong. Balanced. And unapologetic. Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth […]