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

YOUR HOME’S VALUE IN TODAY’S MARKET

Whether you are thinking about selling soon or simply keeping an eye on your investment, understanding your home’s value starts with knowing what buyers look for and how your local area is changing. You do not need charts or forecasts to get a clear picture. A few key factors can help you see where your property stands. Location remains one of the strongest influences on value. Homes near parks, schools or public transit tend to attract steady interest. Neighbourhood improvements such as new shops or community facilities can also boost appeal over time. The condition of your home matters just as much. Well maintained mechanical systems, updated lighting and fresh paint can create a strong first impression. Kitchens and bathrooms do not need full renovations to be attractive. Simple upgrades like new hardware or better storage can make a noticeable difference. Market activity in your area also plays a role. If homes are selling quickly, you may be in a stronger position. If listings stay active longer, buyers may have more choice and more room to negotiate. Every property is unique. If you would like a clear sense of your home’s current value and what steps could help strengthen it in the future, let’s chat about your home and neighbourhood.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

KEEPING YOUR HOME COMFORTABLE THIS WINTER As winter settles in, many of us start looking for simple ways to stay warm without watching our energy bills climb. The good news is that a few small habits can make your home feel cozier while keeping costs in check. Start by checking for drafts around windows and doors. Even small gaps can let warm air escape and allow cold air to creep in. Curtains can help as well. Open them on sunny afternoons to let in natural warmth, and close them at night to keep that heat inside. Your heating system will also work more efficiently when air can move freely. Replace furnace filters regularly and make sure vents are not blocked by furniture. If you have ceiling fans, set them to a low clockwise speed to gently push rising warm air back toward the living space. Small space heaters can warm areas you use most often, which lets you lower the central thermostat slightly. As long as they are used safely and never left unattended, they can be an efficient way to warm bedrooms or home office areas. Cooking meals in the oven adds gentle heat to the kitchen and nearby rooms and can make the home feel cozier during long winter evenings. Décor plays a role too. Throw blankets, heavier bedding and textured pillows help retain warmth and make living spaces feel inviting. Layering rugs over hard floors can reduce heat loss and make rooms more comfortable underfoot, adding warmth without increasing energy use.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

A FRESH TAKE ON CHARCUTERIE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Charcuterie boards are still popular, but the trend has evolved. Many people are now embracing flexible, creative grazing boards that fit different tastes and budgets. The focus is less on tradition and more on creating a relaxed, shareable experience. A modern board often starts with a simple base. Choose a few cheeses, some crackers and fresh fruit, then build outward with items that add color and texture. Fresh vegetables, dips, nuts and olives add variety without requiring much preparation. Snack boards are especially popular. They combine small bites such as hummus, sliced apples, popcorn, pretzels and easy spreads. These boards feel casual and work well for families or low key gatherings. Another fun idea is a breakfast inspired board with yogurt cups, berries, granola and small pastries. It feels special without any cooking. Dessert boards are also trending and can be as simple as chocolate, cookies, fruit and nuts. Budget friendly options work just as well. Store brand cheeses, frozen appetizers and seasonal produce can create a board that looks appealing while staying affordable. The goal is to keep things simple and enjoyable. Modern charcuterie is all about sharing food in a relaxed way. With just a handful of easy ingredients, you can put together a board that keeps prep time low and lets you enjoy more of the holiday moments.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

THE POWER OF LAYERED LIGHTING Good lighting can completely change the feel of a room. As the days get shorter, layered lighting is an easy way to make your home brighter, warmer and more comfortable without taking on major renovations. Combining different types of light creates a balanced atmosphere that supports both relaxation and everyday tasks. Start with ambient lighting which is the overall illumination in a space. Ceiling fixtures or floor lamps usually do the heavy lifting. If the room still feels dim, adding a second lamp can help reduce shadows and make the space feel more even and welcoming. Next is task lighting. These smaller, focused lights support activities like reading, cooking or working. Desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting and bedside lamps are simple upgrades that improve both function and comfort. Even a compact clip-on light can make a noticeable difference in darker corners. Accent lighting is the finishing layer. Soft directional lights, picture lights or small table lamps can highlight favourite décor pieces and enhance the character of a room. Candles or battery-operated lanterns also add gentle illumination without needing outlets. Layered lighting makes rooms feel more dynamic and better tailored to your needs. With a few thoughtful additions, you can brighten your home and create a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the winter months.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

Balanced but Softening: Ottawa Housing Market Shifts Toward Higher Supply

AVERAGE PRICE Single Family $825,827

AVERAGE PRICE Apartment $N/A

SOLD LISTINGS Overall 880

NEW LISTINGS Overall 1,458

OTTAWA, December 9, 2025— Ottawa eased into a slower market rhythm in November, shaped by early winter weather and a cautious economic environment. Sales declined from October and fell below November 2024 levels. Although active listings dipped month over month, months of inventory (MOI) rose again after tightening earlier in the fall. The market remained broadly balanced, but the data shows a tilt toward higher supply, with November’s seasonal slowdown more pronounced than usual. Recent rate cuts offer some optimism for renewed buyer engagement through the typically quiet winter months, setting the stage for a steadier start to the new year and a more energized spring. At the same time, elevated inventory in the townhome and apartment segments warrants ongoing attention to ensure clients understand the current dynamics. 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.

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