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

RATES ARE ON HOLD. NOW WHAT? The Bank of Canada has held its policy rate at 2.25%, keeping borrowing costs unchanged as Canadians head into the fall real estate market. But what does that actually mean if you’re thinking about buying a home? For buyers, the decision provides some stability. Variable-rate mortgage holders won’t see an immediate change tied to the Bank’s decision while fixed mortgage rates continue to be influenced by bond markets and broader economic conditions. The Bank is balancing a recovering Canadian economy against renewed inflation pressures and uncertainty surrounding international trade. Inflation has moved higher which could make future rate cuts less certain. For prospective buyers, this creates an opportunity to focus less on trying to “time” the next rate move and more on affordability, monthly payments and long-term goals. With borrowing costs more stable than they were during the peak-rate environment, buyers may have more confidence entering the market. However, the right decision will depend on individual circumstances and local housing conditions. Don’t wait for the perfect rate. Make sure the home, price and financing strategy make sense for you today. Thinking about buying this fall? Let’s talk about what today’s market could mean for your budget and your next move. Reach out for a personalized conversation about your options.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

SMALL LUXURIES THAT MAKE EVERYDAY LIFE BETTER Luxury at home does not have to mean expensive furniture or a major renovation. Sometimes, it is the small things that make everyday life feel a little more comfortable and enjoyable. Think about the things you use every day. A soft, oversized throw can make your favourite chair even more inviting. Fresh, fluffy towels can make an ordinary shower feel a little more indulgent. A beautiful mug can make your morning coffee feel like a treat rather than just another part of the routine. Small upgrades can also be practical. Replace a worn-out kitchen towel, add a dimmer lamp to a reading corner or choose a lovely hand soap for the kitchen and bathroom. Fresh flowers, a favourite candle or a diffuser with a scent you enjoy can also change the atmosphere of a room. The best part is that these little luxuries do not require a bigger home or a bigger budget. They are simply about noticing what makes you feel good and giving those everyday moments a little more attention. Your home should work for you, but it should also be a place you enjoy coming home to.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

WHY IS THAT ONE ROOM ALWAYS COLD? Many households have that one room that is noticeably cooler than the rest of the home. Blocked venting, uneven heating, air leaks, poor insulation, ductwork problems, drafty windows or differences in exposure to outdoor temperatures, could be the cause. Before turning up the thermostat for the entire home, check the simple causes first. Uneven temperatures can have several causes, including airflow problems, drafts, insulation issues or broader heating and ventilation concerns. Start with airflow. Make sure supply and return vents are open and not blocked by furniture, rugs or other items. Then check for drafts. Take a quick walk around exterior doors and windows. A chilly spot near a window, door or exterior wall may indicate a drafty leak. If the room is consistently cold along an exterior wall, insulation could also be a factor. Finding the cause is more useful than simply increasing the heat. Check vents, filters, doors, windows, drafts and insulation before assuming the heating system needs a major repair. If the problem continues or you notice a larger issue, a qualified professional can help identify the cause.

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

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

GRILL VS. CHILL: PREPPING YOUR BBQ FOR WINTER When that first frost comes your way, it may be time to winterize your BBQ. Some homeowners enjoy grilling well into the colder months while others prefer to clean the grill and put it away until spring. Either choice can work, but colder weather makes preparation more important. Before the first heavy frost, give your BBQ a seasonal check so it is clean, protected and ready for whatever you decide to do. Clear food residue and grease, then inspect burners, hoses, connections and igniter for damage. Cleaning helps find small issues early saving time later. Make sure parts are secure and nothing looks cracked, loose or badly worn. For storage, protect your grill from moisture with a weather-resistant cover, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean and dry the grill first, as moisture can be trapped. Whether taking a winter break or grilling year-round, proper prep including cleaning, inspection and storing is essential before that cold weather hits.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

OTTAWA HOME SALES PULL BACK SHARPLY IN AUGUST WHILE PRICES HOLD STEADY

SOLD LISTINGS Overall 1,002

NEW LISTINGS Overall 2,119

AVERAGE PRICE Single Family $845,113

AVERAGE PRICE Apartment $426,930

Ottawa, ON (Sept. 2026) — Ottawa’s housing market lost momentum in August. Sales declined sharply both year over year and from the previous month, reversing July’s incremental improvement and widening the year-to-date gap compared with 2025. “Prices remained relatively steady despite the pullback in sales, which tells us this is not a simple story of the market moving uniformly in one direction,” said OREB President Tami Eades. “Buyers are seeing less competitive conditions and have more time to make decisions, while sellers are facing more competition and may need to be thoughtful about pricing and positioning their homes for the current market. One month does not establish a trend, but the shift in sales and inventory is something we’ll be watching closely as we head into the fall market.” A total of 1,002 homes were sold through the MLS® System in August, down 18.6% from August 2025. Sales also declined 24.4% from 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