Monica & Chris Hollands' Home Trends

HOLLANDS Monica & Chris SERVICE YOU DESERVE

101-2255 Carling Ave Ottawa, ON K2B 7Z5 Office: 613.596.5353 Hallmark Realty Group Brokerage. Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Monica: 613.864.7975 monica@remaxottawa.com

Chris: 613.797.3977 chris@remaxottawa.com

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

WHY DOES MY AC KEEP TURNING ON AND OFF? Does your air conditioner keep turning on and off every few minutes? If so, your AC unit may be short cycling. This happens when the cooling cycle is cut short. The system starts normally, but a safety mechanism, faulty part or incorrect sensor shuts off the compressor before your home reaches the desired temperature. As a result, the compressor repeatedly turns on and off in short bursts. Short cycling puts extra strain on your system, leading to higher energy costs and premature wear and tear. Fortunately, the cause is often something simple. Start by checking your air filter. A dirty air filter is the most common cause, and the solution is easy. If it looks dirty or clogged, replacing it is a quick fix that can improve your AC's performance right away. Next, check the area around the outdoor unit. Debris, leaves and overgrown grass can make it harder for the system to release heat. Leave at least 60 cm (2 feet) of clearance around the unit by trimming plants, moving items and reducing dust buildup. These simple steps take only a few minutes but can significantly improve airflow and system efficiency, helping you stay comfortable while lowering your energy bills. If your air conditioner still isn't working properly, it may be time to call a professional heating and cooling technician.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

CLIMATE RISK IS RESHAPING CANADIAN REAL ESTATE For years, homebuyers focused primarily on price, location and mortgage rates. Today, climate risk is becoming another important consideration. Across Canada, extreme weather events such as wildfires, flooding, severe storms and heat waves are influencing how people buy, sell and insure their homes. Buyers are asking more questions about a property's flood or wildfire risk and the cost and availability of home insurance before making an offer. Climate resilience is also becoming a selling feature. Homes with improved drainage, fire-resistant landscaping, energy-efficient upgrades or backup power may appeal to buyers looking for long-term security and lower operating costs. Homeowners can also take steps to protect their investment. Improvements such as maintaining proper drainage, installing a sump pump where appropriate or preparing for wildfire season can help reduce potential damage. Real estate professionals are encouraging clients to look beyond curb appeal and consider how a property may perform over the long term as weather patterns continue to evolve. While no home is risk-free, understanding climate risk can help buyers and homeowners make more informed decisions. As Canada's housing market changes, climate awareness is becoming an important part of protecting one of the largest investments most Canadians will ever make.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

GIVE YOUR PHONE A FRESH START It's easy for digital clutter to pile up without you noticing. Just like a junk drawer, an overstuffed closet or that kitchen cupboard full of odds and ends, your phone can become cluttered over time. Old screenshots, duplicate photos, forgotten apps and years of downloads take up valuable storage, make it harder to find what you need and can even slow down your device. A quick digital cleanup doesn't have to take long. Go through your phone and delete anything you no longer use or need. Remove apps you haven't opened in months, clear out old text conversations, update contact information and delete blurry or duplicate photos. While you're at it, back up any photos, files or other important information you want to keep. Most smartphones also include built-in storage tools that show what's taking up space and recommend files that are safe to remove. Set aside 20 minutes this weekend to give your phone a fresh start. You'll free up storage, improve performance and head into the busy fall season feeling a little more organized.

705.561.2724 • mauro@sudburyliving.com • www.sudburyliving.com MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

KEEP MOSQUITOES OUT OF YOUR YARD Nothing sends people indoors faster than a swarm of mosquitoes. After late-summer rainstorms, it's common to see mosquito numbers rise, but a few simple steps can make your yard less inviting and help you enjoy the rest of the season outdoors. The most effective way to reduce mosquitoes is to eliminate standing water, where they lay their eggs. Empty birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, buckets, children's toys and anything else that can collect rainwater. Even a small puddle or a clogged gutter can hold enough water for hundreds of mosquitoes to develop in less than a week. You can also make your yard less attractive to adult mosquitoes by installing tight-fitting window screens, using patio netting and encouraging natural predators like birds, frogs and dragonflies. Keeping your grass trimmed and shrubs well maintained can also reduce the cool, shaded areas where mosquitoes like to rest during the day. With a little regular yard maintenance, you can spend more time enjoying your deck, patio or backyard and less time swatting mosquitoes before summer comes to an end.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

OTTAWA HOME SALES HOLD STEADY AS NEW LISTINGS EASE IN JULY

SOLD LISTINGS Overall 1,325

NEW LISTINGS Overall 2,530

AVERAGE PRICE Single Family $824,769

AVERAGE PRICE Apartment $430,086

Ottawa, ON (August 2026) — Ottawa’s housing market held up better than usual as the spring market gave way to summer. Sales in July were virtually unchanged from a year earlier, while new listings edged lower, improving the balance between incoming supply and sales compared with June. “July’s results point to a steady market as it moves through the typical summer slowdown,” said OREB President Tami Eades. “Sales remained close to last year’s level, while fewer new listings helped improve the balance between supply and demand. However, conditions continue to vary significantly by property type and neighbourhood, reinforcing the importance of local data and informed guidance when making real estate decisions.” A total of 1,325 homes were sold in the Ottawa area through the MLS® System in July, an increase of 0.2% from July 2025. The average residential sale price was $683,308 in July, down 1.6% from a year earlier. There were 2,530 new listings in July, down 0.8% from a year earlier. Active listings totaled 4,678, up 9.3% year-over-year but down 6.1% from June. The sales-to-new-listings ratio increased from 48.8% in June to 52.4% in July as sales held up comparatively well and fewer new properties entered the market. Months of inventory rose modestly from 3.3 in June to 3.5 in July. Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board | Market values stated are of the average of Ottawa and surrounding region. Individual home market values will vary and are affected by factors such as location, size, interior and exterior condition. Please call to get an up-to-date evaluation of your home.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com