An Easy, No-Fuss Thanksgiving Dinner

Are you hosting Thanksgiving for the first time? Hosting family and friends can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide that will help things go smoothly even if you're a rookie.

Make a Schedule

The key to a stress-free Thanksgiving is to plan ahead. Stick to a schedule to avoid any major hassles. We recommend the schedule below for Thanksgiving week:

Monday = Inventory

Tuesday = Shopping

Wednesday = Cooking

Thursday = Assembly + Reheat Food

Take Inventory

Take inventory of everything you have, including serving pieces, baking dishes, place settings and cutlery. Depending on how many guests you have, you may need to buy or borrow additional pieces.

Text Your Invite

Our motto for Thanksgiving first-timers is, "Choose the easy way." Skip the hassle of sending out formal invites, and send your guests a text instead. Try Punchbowl app, which has great seasonal holiday invites to choose from.

Spend Time on Prep to Save Time Later

Plan out your menu, and spend sufficient time on prepping all recipes to make things easier on Thanksgiving day. For a simple meal, stick to just the classics - turkey, roasted veggies, cranberry sauce, stuffing and dessert. Warm things up with a fall soup like curried butternut squash with fried sage.

Set the Table

On Thanksgiving morning, tackle setting the table. If you knock this off your list first thing, you won't have to give it a second thought the rest of the day. Add simple yet intricate details, like fresh sage wrapped in twine at each place setting.

Display a Candle Centerpiece

Arranging flowers is timely and costly. Skip the flowers, and display candles you have on hand instead. Incorporate texture by placing eucalyptus leaves in small vases, and place throughout your tablescape.

Make Easy Appetizers

A bruschetta bar is one of the easiest (and most delicious) appetizers. Place different spreads, such as cheese, olive, roasted tomatoes and feta salad, on a tray, and pair with crackers.

Set Up a Self-Serve Drink Station

Set up a self-serve drink station to avoid constantly refilling your guests' drinks. Provide cans of wine instead of bottles to avoid messing with a corkscrew, and offer non-alcoholic options like apple cider and sparkling water.

Give Everyone Their Own Bread Basket

Use little silver buckets to make mini bread baskets for each guest. This will prevent you from passing around or refilling a larger bread basket during dinner.

Partially-Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Maybe you have time to make cranberry sauce from scratch, but you most likely don't have the time. Make a partially-homemade sauce by mixing fresh or frozen cranberries with a can of cranberry sauce. Garnish with orange peel for color contrast.

Easy Roasted Veggies

Roasted veggies are a great item to include on your easy menu. Use one pan to roast a combo of your favorite fall vegetables. We combined and roasted colorful potatoes, carrots and radishes with butter and fresh thyme for 30-40 mins.

Cook Your Turkey the Day Before

Cooking a turkey is usually the biggest challenge for a Thanksgiving first-timer, so we recommend tackling it the day before Thanksgiving. Then, just set aside some time on the day of to reheat it. If you aren't up for cooking your own turkey, order a pre-cooked one from a local market, add fresh herbs and lemon slices and put it on your own serving platter. We won't tell your secret!

No-Bake Mini Pies

These cute pies don't require a recipe or any baking time. To make, buy pre-made pies from a local gourmet market, and cut out mini versions with a 2" biscuit cutter. Top with whipped cream.

Encourage Your Guests to Take Leftovers

One of the best things about Thanksgiving is the leftovers, so share the leftover love with all your guests. Set up a take-out station with inexpensive and grab-and-go containers or use berry containers from the grocery store.

Home ownership remains a top priority for many Canadians. While buying a home is seen as a milestone and can improve your quality of life, most are hoping that their purchase will also be a sound financial decision. A recent study[1] has found that, for those who are able to secure a sufficient down payment, it is more financially beneficial to buy a home in Canada than to rent over the long term, in 91 per cent of cases analyzed. The scenarios assume the owner is able to provide a 20 per cent down payment.

“Canadians strongly value home ownership for many reasons. Not only is it a great source of pride, it is likely the largest and most significant financial investment most people will ever make,” said Karen Yolevski, chief operating officer, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “Historically, home ownership has been very profitable for Canadians, many of whom have factored their real estate investments into their retirement planning. Owning a home is widely viewed as a means to save money and build equity.”

The study, by economist and housing market analyst Will Dunning, and sponsored by Royal LePage, uses price data for 278 scenarios (broken out by city and housing type) across the country and approaches the commonly-asked question ‘Is it better to buy or rent?’ from various angles – using historical data, future projections, and viewing home ownership as an investment.

“For many people, buying a home – especially the first – is a landmark event and one of the most challenging decisions we’ll make in our lives,” said Will Dunning, president, Will Dunning Inc. “It is a decision that  is usually based on a lot of hard work. This research tests a belief that is held by a lot of Canadians, that owning is better financially than renting. And, it finds that this belief is very often correct.”

While the total monthly costs of owning a home may be higher than renting, there is an important factor to consider. Mortgage payments comprise principal and interest, and the principal component can be seen as a form of saving, albeit forced saving. While the homeowner has to pay the full amount each month, the principal is not a true cost. What’s more, the interest component is largest in the first month and gradually decreases over the life of the loan, effectively increasing the amount of forced saving each month.

In 253 out of 278 cases studied (91%), the net cost of ownership (the total ownership cost minus the saving that occurs through principal repayment) is lower than the cost of renting. In the report, this factor is referred to as the ‘ownership advantage’. As of the second quarter of this year, on average the net home ownership cost was $769 per month less than the cost of renting an equivalent dwelling. In the nine per cent of scenarios where renting was more beneficial than buying, cases were concentrated in luxury homes in expensive neighbourhood pockets. Moreover, the monthly savings were minimal for this demographic at $245.[2]

“While Canadians do want their homes to appreciate, potential homebuyers will find it reassuring that significant price appreciation is not necessary for ownership to be financially worthwhile,” said Yolevski. “There are other benefits to owning a home, in addition to the financial advantages. Owning a property allows more freedom and stability than renting. As a homeowner, you do not have to worry about the landlord hiking up the rent or forcing you to move. And, homeowners have the ability to make a place their own, with renovations or decor. I believe most Canadians would agree that owning a home is as much about laying down roots in a community and making memories with family, as it is about financial security.”

The study tested various scenarios. This includes a mortgage renewal in five years, at an increased interest rate (3.62%, which is based on the highest interest rate seen during the study period from the fourth quarter of 2014 to the present). Even in that scenario, home ownership is expected to remain more affordable than renting in most situations.

“Although supply has reached historic lows and home price appreciation continues to trend upward, the findings of the report show that owning a home remains financially advantageous for most people. However, all Canadians would benefit from swift and material government action to solve the country’s housing supply crisis,” added Yolevski.

To varying degrees, Canadians think of their homes as an investment, and not just a place to live. The study calculated how home ownership might perform as an investment, making varying assumptions about how much values might change during the coming 10 years. The calculations found that even with a 10 per cent decline in home prices, approximately half of the homeowners studied would still see a positive rate of return on investment, while the other half would break even or see a modest loss as an investment.[3] If there is no growth in values, ownership would result in a positive rate of return on investment in a majority of cases. Other scenarios in which values rise show increasingly attractive rates of return. 

The analysis includes assumptions about the costs of buying and selling homes (closing costs, lawyers’ and real estate agents’ fees, and land transfer taxes), and the major ongoing costs incurred by homeowners (utilities, repairs, homeowners’ insurance and condominium fees, where applicable).

Although it might not feel like it at the moment, fall and cooler temperatures are on the horizon. Summer’s reach may seem to extend into September, but before we know it, leaves will begin to fall, the wind will start to pick up, and sweaters will become a necessity.

Before fall hits in full force, consider taking care of the following home maintenance items. These are simple chores that can go a long way in protecting your home and your family during the cooler months. Completing them now, while they are less of a hassle, as opposed to in the future when you may be faced with turbulent weather and other obstacles, is a smart move.

Gutters

It’s a good idea to clean your gutters or eaves every few months. Dirt and debris can easily accumulate in these spaces over time, preventing water from properly flowing through them. Gutters exist to collect precipitation and move it away from the home. When rain can’t move through your gutters it will spill over onto your roof, which can cause leaks and water damage. Long story short, cleaning your gutters regularly can save you a lot of money and frustration.

Cracks/Windows

If you don’t seal foundation and window frame cracks in your home, you may notice autumn’s cooler temperatures sooner than your neighbours. Caulking cracks not only helps to keep warm air in and cold air out, it also helps protect your space from rodents looking for a winter home. Fall is the time when our furry frenemies start looking for places to survive the winter. Help make sure you aren’t unsuspectingly sharing your space by sealing cracks – or as rats/mice see them: entryways!

Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Here’s why: it’s really important! These devices save lives, yet they are so easily overlooked. To help make sure they’re functioning properly, they should be tested every month, and their batteries should be changed twice a year. 

Pro Tip: Change your smoke detector batteries when you change your clocks for Daylight Saving’s time. It happens twice a year, and you’re already going around your home resetting the clocks – it’s the perfect time to get it done.

Organizing Storage

Seasonal changes are the perfect time to get some organizing done. As you put away your summer clothes and bring your jackets and boots out of storage, why not switch other storage items around? You can restructure your storage spaces to bring upcoming holiday decorations to a more accessible spot, and move summer stuff to the back. It’s also a great time to assess your stuff. What summer items did you use or wear this season? What stayed on the shelf? Get rid of unused or unwanted items while the memories are fresh, instead of during spring cleaning when you’re excited about the potential of using/wearing these things during the warmer weather.

Once your maintenance is complete, it’s time to update the inside of your home for fall. Happy Fall Y’all!

Source: Ottawa Fall Home Show blog

60th Anniversary Celebration Fireworks

Join us as we celebrate Rideau Carleton Raceway’s six momentous decades of bringing harness racing and entertainment to the community, with a special 60th Anniversary race night and fireworks display! Post time for racing is 6:30pm, and fireworks will begin between at 10pm. Families can enter via outdoor Family Entrance at the south side of the building. Free Parking.

• Rideau Carleton Racetrack & Casino, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa
• September 4, 2022
• Price: Free

Whether you’re planning a brief getaway or spending the winter months down south, it’s important to take precautions to keep your home safe while you’re away. There are many simple things you can do to deter break-ins, minimize risk of damage and ensure your peace of mind when no one is home. 

Consider these tips next time you are planning a trip:

Ensure all doors and windows are properly closed and locked, including basement windows and the garage door.

Set timers on indoor and outdoor lights, so there is a natural rhythm to when lights are on and off. Leaving the lights on 24/7 for several days or weeks is a clear sign that no one is home.

Secure expensive valuables such as jewellery, cash or important sentimental items in a home safe or a safety deposit box at the bank. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight (visible from a window).

Never leave spare keys hidden on the property. Instead, provide a trustworthy neighbour or a family member or friend who lives nearby with an extra key in the event of an emergency.

In fact, ask that person to check up on the place while you’re away. They can water plants, collect your mail/packages and check for leaks. Most importantly, this will show activity on the property and give the impression that someone is home.

BONUS TIP: In winter, have someone clean your snow and/or drive across your snowy driveway, so it looks like someone is home.

Install an alarm system and security cameras. Doorbell cameras are handy and typically connect to an app on your smartphone so you will be alerted when someone approaches your door.

Unplug all electronics and shut off water if you’re going away for an extended period of time.

It’s good practice to check your smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors before you go away. Replace batteries if necessary and ensure proper functioning of these devices.

Avoid posting to social media that you are away from your home, so as to alert the public that your property is unattended. Wait until you return to share photos from your trip.

1. What are the fees associated with your services?

Every deal is different. We offer competitive rates that are tailored to each client based on the complexity of the deal and the lender involved. We disclose all of our fees upfront to ensure all parties are informed of the full cost of obtaining a mortgage.

The fees associated with our service will depend on a variety of factors, but we are committed to offering the most competitive rates possible without sacrificing the quality of our service. Generally speaking, depending on the nature of the deal, the broker can be compensated by either the lender or the borrower, or a combination of the two.

2. Which is better, a fixed or variable rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage implies that your mortgage rate and payment will remain the same for your mortgage term, which is typically around five years. A fixed-rate mortgage will make the most sense for first-time homebuyers, as it is a low-risk option. It does come with a higher initial rate, however, so be sure to get all the fine print from your broker.

On the other hand, a variable rate mortgage can have your mortgage rate and payment fluctuate or change at any point during your term. If you happen to hit the market at a great time, your payment will go down when rates go down, and, vice versa, if the market rates go up. Variable mortgages will have a lower rate, but get your brokers advice on if any change in the rate makes sense for your needs.

Ultimately, the mortgage you decide to go with depends on your personal situation and the level of risk you're willing to undertake.

3. How do I get approved?

After you've been pre-approved, it's time to work with a realtor to figure out where you'd like to live. After accepting an offer, your mortgage broker will decide on the lender to submit your mortgage application. 2 to 3 days after submitting your mortgage application is when you should expect the initial approval. You are then able to secure the mortgage rate and term, and the legal process to help with closing will begin.

4. Is there any prepayment deal for this mortgage?

Pre-payment is great because it helps you become mortgage free faster. Check if your lender offers a good pre-payment privileges, such as increasing your regular payment and making a lump sum payment. Different lenders will have different rules on how often the payments can be made and if they can be doubled up, so be sure to check on that as well.

5. What's the penalty for breaking my mortgage?

It's not an uncommon situation for a borrower to end the mortgage early. If you're looking for a mortgage refinance or decide you want to sell your home, then you may face a penalty.

The penalty, which occurs if you break your mortgage before your renewal date, can vary greatly depending on your rate. In Ontario, for variable rate mortgages, the penalty can be around three months' interest. Fixed-rate mortgage penalties are tricky to calculate, as they involve the interest rate differential or IRD. This amount is calculated on the postage rate when you sign your deal, which is usually a little higher than the rate you actually get. Simply put, it can result in a higher penalty than a fixed rate mortgage if you decide to break the agreement.

Every lender uses a different method to calculate penalties, so be sure to discuss rates and terms with your mortgage broker in case you decide to refinance or sell. There is sometimes a fee associated with pre-payment, so that's another important question for your mortgage broker as well.

Members of the Ottawa Real Estate Board sold 1,110 residential properties in July through the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® System, compared with 1,718 in July 2021, a decrease of 35%. July’s sales included 840 in the residential-property class, down 36% from a year ago, and 270 in the condominium-property category, a decrease of 34% from July 2021. The five-year average for total unit sales in July is 1,691.

“We are witnessing a profound slowdown in Ottawa’s resale market. July’s numbers reveal that Buyers are indeed putting on the brakes more heavily than what is typically expected during the mid-summer sales dip. Aggressive interest rate increases are surely impacting the decision to buy at the moment as well as other factors that I mentioned last month,” states OREB President Penny Torontow. “But there is a silver lining: with more properties continually being added to inventory, we are on the cusp of returning to a balanced market, and that is good news,” she adds.

“July saw 2,338 new listings added to the housing stock, which is on par with the 5yr average and 5% lower than last year at this time. Our inventory for residential-class properties is currently around 2.9 months and 2.5 months for condominiums. A market is considered balanced with at least four months of supply, so we are well on our way to that paradigm.”

The average sale price for a condominium-class property in July was $425,694, an increase of 1% from 2021, while the average sale price for a residential-class property was $716,354, increasing 5% from a year ago. With year-to-date average sale prices at $805,238 for residential and $461,557 for condominiums, these values represent an 11 per cent and 9 percent increase over 2021, respectively.*

“The double-digit average price increases that we saw in the past couple of years right up until the early spring have now morphed into single-digit increases, which aligns more with our traditional stable year-over-year price growth. However, it is important to point out that average prices tally the entire spectrum of home sales across the city and region. If you look from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, there are so many differing characteristics and attributes, price increases will certainly fluctuate depending on where you live,” suggests Torontow.

“If you are selling your home, now is the time to be patient as days on market return to more normal timeframes. There are still many Buyers out there, but with more choice, they have less pressure and may take their time. Even though interest rates are still quite reasonable from a historical perspective, consumers are adjusting to this new reality. The rising cost of all goods means people need time to evaluate and adapt their mindsets.”

“I also believe it is time for the federal government to adapt and reassess the stress test. It was originally designed when rates were very low to ensure Buyers could manage rate hikes. With interest rates where they are now, they have to qualify at a 7-8% rate which no longer makes sense and takes many Buyers out of the market.”

“Whether you are a Buyer or a Seller, a professional licensed REALTOR® will help you navigate this shifting resale market. They have access to minute-by-minute sales data and local neighbourhood expertise that will assist you in making the best decisions for your circumstances.”

REALTORS® also help with finding rentals and vetting potential tenants. Since the beginning of the year, OREB Members have assisted clients with renting 3,528 properties compared to 2,706 last year at this time. * OREB cautions that the average sale price can be useful in establishing trends over time but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The calculation of the average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Price will vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.

Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREA)

Chances are, you’ve heard the expression, “Your home is your biggest investment.” For most homeowners, that’s true. So, when you’re shopping for a new home, it’s important to consider the financial ramifications of any purchase. Ideally, you want a home that is likely to increase in value over time.  

In other words, you want a home with a strong potential return on investment. 

But dollars aren’t the only type of return you should look for in a new home. Real estate is unique in that the “emotional” return is just as important as the financial return — and, in some cases, even more so. 

Say, for example, you’re thinking of moving to a neighbourhood that is closer to work. In fact, you’ll cut your commuting time by an hour each day. Financially, that return on investment means little beyond some savings on gas. However, the emotional payoff can be very high, especially when you consider what you can do with that extra hour each day. Imagine what it would mean to spend more time with your kids or workout out at the gym more often. 

So, considering the emotional return on investment when you’re moving is essential. It has a huge impact on your lifestyle and your enjoyment of the property. 

How do you factor that in when selling your property and searching for your next dream home? 

When you see a listed home you like, make a list of all the emotional benefits of living there. That list might include having a park nearby, living closer to friends or family, having a home office that isn’t the kitchen table, having more space to accommodate a growing family, and so forth.   

Then, factor that list into your decision of whether or not to buy.

When you buy a new home and moving day is looming, it can be tempting to consider making the move yourself. After all, by not hiring a moving company, you’re saving money. 

It is true, the DIY approach can lower your moving costs, which is money you can put towards needed fixes and upgrades to your new property. 

But, you’re also adding a lot of work! You’ll need to think about boxes, packing, truck rental, gas, lifting and lugging, friends who offer to help but bail at the last minute, and more. 

So, if you’re going to move yourself, plan carefully. Ensure you have all the boxes and packing supplies (tape, bubble wrap, etc.) you need. Most importantly, put together a reliable crew who can stick with you the entire day. In addition to family and friends, it might make sense to hire a worker for the day. 

If that all seems like too much work and hassle, then using a moving company is a time-saving option. Yes, you’ll pay more. But you’ll get professional movers, with a truck, who can do much of the lifting and lugging for you. That will take a lot of the stress out of a moving day. 

And, keep in mind, you don’t need to get the moving company to do it all. 

You can cut costs by having them handle the heavier items, such as appliances and furniture, while you DIY-move other things, such as easier-to-handle boxes.   

Regardless of which option you choose, make your plans well in advance. When it comes to moving day, you’ll be glad you did!  

Want more tips on making buying and selling easier? Call us today. 

Thursday, June 30th - Sunday, July 3rd

Here are some fun-filled activities to celebrate Canada's 155th birthday!

Fireworks

Below is a list of all the top locations to get a great view of some beautiful fireworks on June 30th & July 1st (approx. times)

• Tim Hortons Canada Day Pyromusical Fireworks (Main fireworks by Canadian Heritage) – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM @ Best views from LeBreton Flats Park, Ottawa/Place des festivals Zibi, 3 Eddy St, Gatineau
• Ottawa REDBLACKS – June 30 after the game @ The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
• Riverside South Community Canada Day Fireworks– July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM @ Claudette Cain Park, Ottawa
• Orléans Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM @ Petrie Island, Ottawa
• Barrhaven Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | Dusk @ Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan St, Nepean
• Greely Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | Dusk @ Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Dr, Greely
• Stittsville Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM @ Cardel Rec Centre., 1500 Shea Rd, Stittsville
• Kanata Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM from Walter Baker Park off Terry Fox Drive, Kanata
• Russell Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM from Russell High School
• Osgoode Village Canada Day Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | 10:00 PM at Osgoode Main St, Osgoode
• Vernon Community Association Fireworks – July 1, 2022 | Dusk @ Vernon Recreation Centre, 7950 Lawrence St.Winchester
• North Gower Canada Day Fireworks – TBA (2019 at Alfred Taylor Rec. Centre 2300 Community Way North Gower)
• Beacon Hill Fireworks – TBA (2019 at Loyola Hill Park, Gloucester)
• Munster Canada Day Fireworks – 2022 TBA (2019 from Munster Dogwood Park, 2890 Munster Road, Ottawa)
• Vars Canada Day Fireworks – TBA (2019 at the corner of Russell and Boundary Roads, Carlsbad Springs.)
• Corkery Community Association – TBA (2019 at Corkery Community Centre, 3447 Old Almonte Rd, Carp)
• Dunrobin Canada Day Fireworks – TBA (2019 at Eagle Creek Golf Club, 109 Royal Troon Lane Dunrobin)

Celebrations

Some prime locations filled with activities and fun for the whole family.

• LeBreton Flats Park – Friday July 1 / 9:00am - 10:00pm / $ Free
• Place des festivals Zibi – Friday July 1 / 9:00am - 10:00pm / Place des festivals Zibi, 3 Eddy St, Gatineau / $ Free
• Parliament Hill – Friday July 1 / 9:00am / Parliament Hill, Wellington St, Ottawa / $ Free
• Greely – Friday July 1 / 11:00am to dusk (fireworks at dusk) / Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Dr, Ottawa / $ Free
• Barrhaven – June 30 to July 2 /July 1 | 8:00am to late (fireworks end of the night) / Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan St, Nepean / $ Free
• Stittsville – Friday July 1 / 1:00pm - 10:00pm (fireworks at 10pm) / Sacred Heart High School, 5870 Abbott St, Stittsville / $ Free
• Orleans – Friday July 1 / 11:00am - 10:00pm (fireworks at close) / Petrie Island, Ottawa / $ Free
• Kanata – Friday July 1 / 10:00am - 10:00pm / Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Place, Kanata / $ Free
• Pineview – Friday July 1 / 10:00am - 3:00pm / Meadowbrook Park, 1485 Meadowbrook Rd, Gloucester / $ Free

Source: Things To Do Canada