Buying an Old House? Here’s What Unexpected Repairs Might Cost You

You found your dream century home and your conditional offer has been accepted. But after receiving your home inspector’s report, it turns out your charming Victorian cottage is more like an old house that needs more than a fresh coat of paint.

While this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to back out of the deal, it’s important to understand what the repairs could involve and how they might affect your budget. Depending on the conditions of your offer, you may also have an opportunity to head back to the negotiating table.

Your REALTOR® can help you understand the findings in your home inspection report, determine what questions to ask and, where appropriate, recommend getting more information or quotes from qualified professionals before moving forward.

In this article, we’ll go over the most common renos or repairs you’ll need to consider when buying an older house, such as:

 

a contractor inspecting an air conditioner

“Disposable” systems that need replacing

Roofs, air conditioners, furnaces and boilers don’t last forever. With an older home, there’s a chance at least one of these systems could be approaching the end of its useful life.

That doesn’t necessarily make it a “bad” house. But knowing which major components might need to be replaced soon can help you plan for costs that could otherwise come as an unwelcome surprise.

💲Expect to pay:
      • Between $5,000 and $15,000 for an asphalt roof. HomeStars’ 2026 Canadian roofing cost guide estimates asphalt roof installations typically fall within this range, although roof size, materials, pitch and other project requirements can push costs higher.
      • About $4,100 to $9,500 for a new gas furnace. Home Depot Canada estimates furnace supply and installation in Canada can fall within this range, with an average of about $6,800. The final cost depends on factors including the size and layout of the home, furnace type, ductwork and installation requirements.
      • Approximately $11,750 and up for a new natural gas boiler in Ontario. Enercare’s 2026 boiler guide says installation of a new natural gas boiler starts at about $11,750, including the unit, standard installation and required licences, permits and code requirements. Boiler type, efficiency, fuel source and the home itself can all affect the final price.
      • About $5,000 to $8,000 for central air conditioning. Home Depot Canada estimates the cost to supply and install a central air conditioning system in Canada generally falls within this range, with an average of about $5,500 for its benchmark system.

Note: These figures are budgeting estimates from the cited Canadian sources. Actual costs can vary significantly depending on where you live, the size and condition of the home, the equipment or materials selected, accessibility, permits and the scope of the work. Get quotes from qualified local professionals for the home you’re considering.

a man inspecting the foundation of an old house within the crawl space

Foundation cracks and sloping floors

Nobody wants to move into an old house with serious foundation problems, but finding a crack doesn’t automatically mean you’re facing a major structural repair.

Some foundation cracks are relatively minor and can be repaired or sealed. Others can be associated with water infiltration, movement or structural issues that require much more extensive work.

That’s why signs such as significant cracks, uneven or sloping floors, doors and windows that no longer sit square, or evidence of movement may warrant further investigation by an appropriate qualified professional.

HomeStars’ 2026 Canadian foundation repair guide shows just how much the severity of the problem can affect the price. A straightforward crack repair can cost hundreds of dollars, while stabilization or other major structural work can cost tens of thousands.

💲Expect to pay:
      • About $300 to $800 for a minor crack repair, or $500 to $1,500 for a typical crack injection. HomeStars estimates structural crack repairs can start around $1,200, while a structural problem requiring foundation stabilization can range from about $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the problem and repair method.

a plumber fixing pipes within a wall

Plumbing and electrical elements

An old house can still contain electrical and plumbing systems that have since been replaced by newer materials and standards, including knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized steel supply pipes and cast-iron drain pipes.

One of the challenges is that previous renovations don’t always tell the whole story. A basement or kitchen may have newer electrical wiring or plumbing, while older systems can remain behind finished walls on upper storeys.

Access can make a major difference to the cost. Fishing new wiring through finished plaster walls or replacing pipes hidden inside walls and ceilings can require considerably more labour than doing the same work during an open-wall renovation.

💲Expect to pay:
      • About $8,000 to $20,000 or more for a whole-home electrical rewire in Ontario. City Power Electrical Services, an Ontario licensed electrical contractor, estimates a full rewire of a small-to-mid-sized home with good access at about $10,000 to $16,000. A larger finished home with plaster walls can cost $18,000 to $25,000 or more.
      • About $8,000 to $15,000 or more to repipe a typical 1,500-square-foot older Toronto home. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Toronto uses that range for complete repiping in homes in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood, where heritage plaster, original woodwork and multi-storey layouts can make access more difficult.
      • About $2,800 to $4,800 for a cast-iron plumbng stack replacement. Premier Plumbing’s 2026 pricing guide (serving the Toronto area) uses this range for replacing the main vertical cast-iron drain stack, with the scope and accessibility of the damaged pipe affecting the final cost.

A broken window in an old house

Windows

Just because your home inspection reveals a house still has older windows doesn’t necessarily mean they all need to be replaced immediately.

Their condition, operation, air leakage and energy efficiency can all factor into that decision. Some homeowners also choose to replace functioning windows because they want easier operation, improved energy efficiency or a different look.

💲Expect to pay:
      • About $300 to $1,000 per window installed for a standard replacement. According to HomeStars’ 2026 Canadian window installation guide, a standard vinyl single-hung window typically costs $300 to $600 installed, while double-hung and casement windows generally range from about $400 to $900. Larger, custom or structurally complicated windows can cost considerably more.

Other things to look for in an old house

Other issues a home inspector might recommend further investigation for in an older house include the possible presence of lead-based paint, mould or asbestos-containing building materials.

Health Canada says asbestos was commonly used in building products before 1990, including insulation, cement and plaster, siding and floor and ceiling tiles.

Asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition and left undisturbed generally don’t present the same risk as material that is being cut, removed or disturbed during renovations. Health Canada recommends having suspected materials professionally tested before major renovation or demolition work and hiring a qualified asbestos-removal specialist if asbestos needs to be removed.

Lead paint is another consideration in older properties. According to Health Canada, a home built before 1960 probably contains lead-based paint, while homes built between 1960 and 1990 may have lead-based paint on exterior surfaces and smaller amounts on some interior surfaces. If you think paint may contain lead, Health Canada recommends having it tested rather than sanding, scraping or otherwise disturbing it.

When it comes to mould, Health Canada generally does not recommend routine air testing. A visual inspection for mould, moisture and signs of water damage is usually more useful, although a qualified professional may recommend additional testing where a moisture or mould problem remains unexplained.

If your home inspection report includes a number of issues, remember it doesn’t automatically mean the home is off the table. The important thing is understanding what you’re dealing with, what needs attention now versus later, and what it could mean for your budget.

Your REALTOR® can help you navigate the information, ask the right questions and decide what makes sense for you before moving forward with buying an old house.

The article above is for information purposes and is not financial, legal, construction, engineering or other professional advice, or a substitute for advice from qualified professionals. Prices are estimates published by the sources cited and may vary by location, property, materials and scope of work.

Démystifier la cote de crédit et son impact sur la capacité d’emprunt

Au Canada, tout nouvel emprunt émis par une institution financière fera l’objet d’une analyse de l’emprunteur, dont l’une des composantes importantes est la cote de crédit, ou le pointage. En plus d’analyser les revenus ainsi que les actifs et les passifs au moment de demander un prêt, une carte de crédit ou une nouvelle hypothèque, votre institution financière se penchera sur votre comportement historique et sur l’ensemble de vos relations avec les créditeurs. Avant de demander un nouveau prêt, il peut donc être utile de connaître sa cote de crédit et, si votre projet peut attendre, de prendre quelques mesures afin de l’améliorer. Couple qui discute sa cote de crédit lors d’un emprunt hypothécaire.
Cet article a été initialement publié le 23 novembre 2022 et a été mis à jour pour garantir que les informations restent exactes et pertinentes. 

Comment cela fonctionne-t-il?

La « cote » est un score qui mesure le risque que vous représentez aux yeux du prêteur. Elle est représentée par une valeur qui se situe entre 300 et 900. Son calcul se fait sur la base de tous les produits de crédit enregistrés que vous détenez, et peut inclure vos paiements de factures de télécommunication, votre paiement d’auto, vos prêts personnels et vos cartes de crédit. Au Canada, deux principaux bureaux effectuent l’évaluation, Equifax et TransUnion ‒ deux entreprises privées qui recueillent l’information et déterminent votre score. Chaque mois, chacun des prêteurs auprès desquels vous avez souscrit un emprunt indique si oui ou non vous vous êtes acquittés de vos obligations, en utilisant un indicateur qui se situe entre 1 et 9; 1 indiquant que le paiement a été fait dans les délais, et 9 indiquant le non-paiement d’une créance. Chaque fois que vous payez en retard, cela se reflète dans votre dossier, et affecte négativement votre score. Le calcul, bien qu’il se fasse sans que le consommateur s’en aperçoive, prend en compte un grand nombre de facteurs tels les paiements effectués à temps, la proportion de l’utilisation du crédit (exprimée par rapport au total du crédit qui vous est consenti), l’historique, le type de crédit et le nombre de nouvelles demandes effectuées. Contrairement à une légende urbaine, la vérification de votre cote de crédit n’a aucun impact sur celle-ci; les consommateurs et futurs acheteurs sont donc encouragés à consulter cette information afin de mieux la comprendre. Femme heureuse de voir qu’elle a une bonne cote de crédit.

Qu’est-ce qu’un bon score et comment puis-je l’obtenir?

Au Canada, la moyenne varie d’une région à l’autre ainsi qu’en fonction de paramètres démographiques, mais la moyenne se situe autour de 650 environ. Toutefois, selon Equifax, le score de crédit augmente proportionnellement avec l’âge; les individus de 65 ans et plus ont un score moyen qui est plutôt de l’ordre de 750, soit un score qu’on pourrait qualifier « d’excellent ».  De nombreuses sources proposent une segmentation des scores de crédit, qu’on pourrait grossièrement subdiviser de la manière suivante :
  • De 300 à 600, votre score risque de poser problème et certains prêteurs pourraient refuser de vous consentir un prêt.
  • De 600 à 700, votre crédit est jugé moyen, et pourrait faire en sorte d’augmenter le taux d’intérêt applicable à votre dossier.
  • 700 et plus, les institutions financières classent les dossiers entre « bons », « très bons » et « excellents » selon différents seuils.
Évidemment, il est toujours bon de chercher à améliorer son score avant de demander un prêt, et il n’existe malheureusement pas de manière rapide d’y parvenir : votre cote représente votre comportement historique par rapport au crédit.  Échelle de cote de crédit de bonne à mauvaise. Toutefois, le gouvernement du Canada émet un certain nombre de recommandations auprès des Canadiens afin d’augmenter la qualité de leur dossier :
  • Toujours faire ses paiements réguliers à temps
  • Faire le paiement minimum s’il n’est pas possible de régler l’intégralité du solde
  • Utiliser le crédit prudemment
  • Augmenter la durée de ses antécédents; éviter de changer sans cesse d’institution financière ou de type de carte de crédit
  • Utiliser différents types de crédit
Un acheteur qui s’intéresse au marché de l’immobilier en vue de réaliser un achat a donc tout intérêt à connaître et à comprendre sa cote de crédit. Comme il s’agit d’un effort de longue haleine, les emprunteurs qui utilisent le crédit intelligemment, font leurs paiements régulièrement et limitent leur endettement seront avantagés par rapport aux autres. Les informations présentées dans cet article ne doivent pas être considérées comme des conseils financiers ou juridiques. Cet article est uniquement destiné à des fins d’information.

What Is Mortgage Life Insurance?

Buying a home brings a lot of decisions. Fixed or variable rate? Five-year term or three? How much should go toward the down payment? Then, somewhere between signing the mortgage and getting the keys, comes another one: Should you get mortgage life insurance?

It’s not a small decision. Mortgages account for almost 75 per cent of Canadian household credit market debt, according to Statistics Canada. For many homeowners, it’s their biggest financial obligation — and one your family could be left managing if something happens to you.

Mortgage life insurance, also referred to as mortgage protection insurance or RBC HomeProtector® Insurance, is one way to add a layer of protection. RBC says it’s optional coverage that can help pay off or reduce your mortgage balance if you die. It can also include coverage for critical illness or disability.

“Having mortgage protection insurance can help give your family peace of mind, fill in the gaps, and protect you today and going forward,” says Denise Hollingsworth, an RBC mortgage specialist in Guelph, Ontario.

Even if you already have life insurance through work, don’t assume you’re fully covered. Your workplace policy may not be enough to pay off the mortgage and cover everything else your family needs.

This article looks at how mortgage life insurance works, what it can protect and what it may cost to help you understand whether it makes sense for you.

What is mortgage life insurance?

Mortgage life insurance is a product that fits under the broader umbrella of creditor protection insurance, a category of insurance designed to help protect eligible borrowers and their families. Mortgage life insurance is optional insurance coverage you can buy from your lender when you take out a mortgage. If you die while the coverage is active and you make an approved claim, the insurance is paid directly toward your mortgage, helping to pay off or reduce your outstanding mortgage balance, up to the limits of your coverage. That can leave your family with a smaller mortgage — or no mortgage at all — easing some of the financial pressure after your death.

Think of it as insurance for what’s likely both your largest debt and your family’s home. You can also add other types of mortgage protection insurance. Critical illness coverage can pay off or decrease your mortgage balance if you’re diagnosed with a covered illness. Disability coverage can make your regular mortgage payments for a set period if you’re unable to work because of an illness or injury.

“This type of insurance can give families added protection,” says Hollingsworth. “It’s knowing that if something unfortunate happens, your family may not have to move or find a co-signer.”

A mortgage that works with your income today could become much harder to carry if a serious illness, disability, or death suddenly disrupts your household finances. And many Canadians don’t have much of a cushion. In a 2025 RBC Insurance survey, 30 per cent of Canadians said their savings would last less than six months if they faced a major health setback.

In fact, according to a Canadian Association of Financial Institutions in Insurance (CAFII) survey, only 38 per cent of Canadian mortgage and HELOC holders felt confident they could keep making their mortgage payments if their primary earner lost their income. More than half said they couldn’t maintain their lifestyle for six months without it.

One important distinction: mortgage life insurance isn’t the same as mortgage default insurance. Mortgage life insurance is optional coverage designed to help pay off or reduce your outstanding mortgage balance if you die. Depending on the coverage you choose, it can also help if you become critically ill or disabled.

Mortgage default insurance, on the other hand, protects your lender if you default on your mortgage — not you. It doesn’t pay down your mortgage if you die or cover your mortgage payments if you can’t. Mortgage default insurance is generally required in Canada when home buyers put down less than the 20 per cent typically needed for a conventional mortgage.

Similar names. Very different products.

How does mortgage life insurance differ from life insurance?

Here’s the simplest way to think about mortgage life insurance vs. other forms of life insurance: one follows your mortgage. The other follows you.

Who receives the benefit?

With mortgage life insurance, the insurance payout is applied directly to your outstanding mortgage, helping to reduce or wipe out the balance that your family may be left with.

With personal life insurance, you choose the beneficiaries. If you die while the policy is in force, they receive a lump sum payment and decide what to do with it. Some types of permanent insurance, such as whole life insurance, can also build cash value over time.

What happens to your coverage over time?

Your mortgage life insurance coverage is based on your outstanding mortgage balance. As you pay down what you owe, the amount of coverage adjusts with it. That’s already factored into the price, while your premium rate generally stays the same unless you refinance or make changes that require you to reapply. Once the mortgage is paid off, the coverage ends.

Personal life insurance works differently. With term or permanent life insurance, the death benefit you buy generally stays the same while your policy is in force.

Who owns the policy?

With mortgage protection insurance, your lender is the group policyholder, meaning it holds the insurance policy and offers coverage to eligible mortgage clients. Since it’s group insurance, your individual health doesn’t determine the premium rate you pay. Your coverage is tied to your mortgage, and if you make an approved claim, the insurance goes toward your mortgage, which can mean smaller mortgage payments — or none.

With personal life insurance, you own the policy. So, if you switch mortgage lenders or pay off your home, your life insurance can stay with you, provided you keep the policy in force.

What’s the application process like for mortgage life insurance?

This is where mortgage life insurance has convenience on its side. Mortgage life insurance can be offered by mortgage lenders at the time you get your mortgage. Applying usually involves answering a few health questions.

With RBC HomeProtector® Insurance, you start with just one health question. If you answer “no,” you’re automatically approved for coverage.

On the flip side, personal life insurance is only offered by licensed life insurance agents and can require more information about your health, finances, and lifestyle. Depending on the policy, you may also need a medical exam. Unlike your mortgage lender, a licensed life insurance agent can provide you with personalized advice about available insurance options based on a broader assessment of your financial needs.

How much does mortgage life insurance cost?

There’s no universal price tag. Mortgage life insurance is a personalized product with rates that depend on individual circumstances. Actual costs can vary considerably based on a range of factors.

For instance, RBC HomeProtector® Insurance calculates life insurance premiums based on your age and the amount of your mortgage when you apply. Rates are charged monthly for every $1,000 of your initial insured mortgage balance.

Here’s what that might look like in dollars. Say you and your co-borrower are 35 and 30 and have a $200,000 mortgage. RBC’s joint rate for that age group is $0.24 per $1,000, based on the older borrower’s age. That works out to $48 per month, plus applicable taxes.

RBC table
Table from RBC

Your premium is typically added to your regular mortgage payment. Choosing critical illness or disability coverage will also affect what you pay.

And if you refinance or add to your mortgage, you’ll need to reapply for coverage. Your premium will then be calculated using your age and mortgage balance at the time of the new application.

Is mortgage life insurance worth it?

The short answer: it depends on what you need your insurance to do.

Mortgage life insurance is typically arranged at the same time as a mortgage and may have a simpler application process than some other types of life insurance. Mortgage life insurance is designed to help reduce or pay off the outstanding mortgage balance if an insured borrower dies. Workplace and personal life insurance may provide different benefits, coverage amounts, limits, and terms.

Even if you already have life insurance in place, could your family keep paying the mortgage and everything else if things went sideways? For some people, existing coverage may be enough. For others, mortgage life insurance and personal life insurance can work together to cover different needs — one focused on the mortgage, the other giving your family more flexibility.

Not sure where you stand? A licensed insurance advisor can help you look at the coverage you already have, identify any gaps, and understand your options.

Insurance and mortgage information in this article is provided by RBC and/or its affiliates for general information only and is not intended as insurance, mortgage, legal, financial, or other professional advice. REALTOR.ca does not endorse or recommend any particular product or service. Please consult a licensed professional about your specific circumstances. Links may take you to RBC or affiliate websites that are not operated or controlled by REALTOR.ca. If you visit those sites, their terms of use and privacy policies will apply. REALTOR.ca may receive compensation for certain qualifying referrals generated through these links.

HomeProtector® is a creditor’s group insurance program, underwritten by The Canada Life Assurance Company, and is subject to terms, conditions, exclusions and eligibility restrictions. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.

Get Your Home Ready to Sell This Fall

Fall can be a good time to make a move, whether you’re buying or selling, but the picture depends on where you live.

The Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) July forecast called for a more active second half of 2026, although it projects home sales for the full year to finish 1.4% below 2025. In August, national sales dipped 0.7% from July while new listings rose 3.3%.

If you’re thinking of listing your property this fall, there are a few simple things you can do to get your home ready to help it sell faster, easier, and at the highest price possible.

 

Canadian homes in the fall

The advantages of selling in the fall

“The question isn’t so much whether buyers will return, but when,” said Brendan Powell, a REALTOR® in Toronto, Ontario. “The reality is, buyers will come back when they feel conditions are favourable. All sellers can do is be ready for when that happens.”

Luckily, while most homeowners think of spring as the ideal time to sell, the fall is actually a great time to list your home. Just some of the benefits of selling in the fall include:

Some of the benefits of selling in the fall include:

  • typically there are less listings compared to spring, which helps your home stand out;
  • late winter and early spring can be a mucky mess to get your home all spruced up, but late summer and early fall provide great opportunities; and
  • more serious buyers who want to move in before the snow arrives, including people relocating for work or empty-nesters downsizing after their kids have left for school.

 

“September and October have consistently been busy times. Yes, that can mean more competition, but with more eyeballs, your home will benefit from broader exposure than in deep summer, when many Canadians tune out to enjoy the warmer weather,” Powell said.

What the market looks like heading into fall 2026

Canada’s housing market is entering fall without a dramatic shift in either direction, according to CREA. In August, national home sales edged down 0.7% from July, while new listings rose 3.3%. The national sales-to-new-listings ratio was 49.1%, within the range CREA generally considers consistent with balanced market conditions. “Sales activity and price trends were largely unchanged for a fourth consecutive month in August,” said Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Senior Economist.

For sellers, more listings could mean more competition for buyers’ attention. It’s a good reason to look closely at comparable homes in your neighbourhood before settling on a price, and to make sure your home is ready to show well from day one. The national numbers are a starting point; your REALTOR® can help you understand how many similar homes are for sale nearby and what buyers are responding to.

Looking ahead, CREA expects sales to be more active in the second half of 2026, following a weak first half, but that doesn’t mean every seller will see the same level of interest. That forecast is national, and conditions can look quite different from one neighbourhood to the next.

RBC Economics also expects a gradual recovery, but cautions that “the path is unlikely to be smooth or uniform across the country.” For sellers, that makes local comparable listings and realistic pricing especially useful conversations to have with a REALTOR® this fall.

a front door with a wreath on it

Make a great first impression

Once you’ve decided to sell, work with your REALTOR® on a plan to get your home ready for buyers. A few things to focus on:

A few things to focus on:

  • Finish the small fixes. Replace old door knobs, repair that broken deck step, or give a tired room a fresh coat of paint. The projects you’ve been putting off may be the first things buyers notice.
  • Make the most of daylight. Fall days get shorter, so clean your windows and screens, open the blinds during showings, and add lamps to corners that feel dark.
  • Keep seasonal décor simple. A wreath or a few warm-coloured accents can make your home feel inviting.

 

🗣️ Consult with your REALTOR® before doing any staging on your own because fall overkill can distract buyers or completely turn them off of your home.

Stay on top of cleaning and upkeep

While fall leaves may be pretty to look at, they can also make a mess out of your otherwise pristine yard. If you have a showing or open house coming up, double check to make sure no one’s been tracking in any mud or dirt. To really maximize your curb appeal, don’t forget to consider what’s outside your home as well.

“Fall means yards and gardens are approaching the end of their summer foliage,” Powell said. “So clear out any flowers and plants that dry up in the fall, and stay on top of all those leaves. If you’re listing late in fall, consider adding some decorative outdoor plants that stay beautiful well into the colder weather, like decorative cabbage or black-eyed Susans.”

Of course, the last thing you want to discover on a cool autumn evening right before a buyer is coming to see your home, is that your furnace is on the fritz! Since most of us don’t use our furnaces much in the summer, a fall listing can be a great occasion to have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected.

a tripod with a camera attached to it

Put the latest technology to work for you

Between virtual and 3D tours, 360-degree views, and remote showings, the technology associated with selling a home has come a long way since the days of newspaper listings. Your REALTOR® can help put those technologies to work for you.

“If you plan to sell later in the year, get some outdoor photos done now, before the snow comes and the cooler weather hits,” Powell said. “Even if you’re still prepping inside, it’s worth a little early effort to capture what the summer peak looks like.”

“While your own snapshots might be fine, ask your REALTOR® to bring in their professional photographer ahead of time,” he added. “Have a rock-star backyard? It may be worth shooting some drone photography or video to really capture things before the cold hits.”

Do your research before listing this fall

Because there may be fewer buyers in the fall compared to spring, it’s essential to stay on top of what’s happening in the market. This means having your REALTOR® do research on things like comparable listings in your area, tracking where your local housing market is headed, and understanding what buyers are looking for in a home right now.

“Changing demand, buyer expectations and your competition will all impact your sale’s timing and strategy,” Powell explained. “The right strategy could change from one day to the next, but the most successful sellers are the ones who listen to what the market, and their REALTOR®, are telling them, and act swiftly.

“Don’t get so stuck on a strategy, price or timing that you aren’t able to change it up to take advantage of opportunities,” he added. “Your REALTOR® will know when to jump and when to pivot. Listen to them.”

man in black long sleeve shirt sitting on chair beside woman in black and white stripe

Ask your REALTOR®

Lastly, when in doubt, ask your REALTOR® for advice! In addition to tracking the latest market statistics and keeping you informed about any future interest rate changes, your REALTOR® can walk you through each step in pricing, listing and getting your home ready to sell, and help you sell your property quicker, with less stress, and at the best price possible.

🔎 Don’t have a REALTOR® yet and still want to sell this fall? What are you waiting for! Find a REALTOR® you can connect with today.

You may also be interested in reading…

Could Your REALTOR® Be the Next Recipient of the Canadian REALTORS Care® Award?

Every day, REALTORS® across Canada are giving back to the communities they call home. That’s why REALTOR.ca is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Canadian Real Estate Association’s Canadian REALTORS Care® Award 2027, and we need your help in finding the next recipient.


For more than a decade, this award has celebrated REALTORS® across Canada whose volunteerism has made a meaningful difference in their communities. The 2026 recipient, Sue Heddle, leads Hockey Cares, a reconciliation project she launched in 2017. Since its inception, Hockey Cares has brought together hundreds of youth from Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to learn about each other’s cultures and connect through their shared love of hockey.

REALTOR Care award winner Sue Heddle and Hockey Cares

If you know a passionate REALTOR®, like Sue, whose inspiring story deserves to be shared, now is the time to nominate them for the Canadian REALTORS Care® Award 2027 Proudly Presented by REALTOR.ca. The recipient will be celebrated nationally, and their charity of choice will receive a $10,000 donation from the Canadian Real Estate Association.

Your REALTOR® may give back in a completely different way. What matters is helping others understand what they do, why their contribution matters and the impact their volunteerism has had.  If you’re thinking of nominating a REALTOR®, putting together a strong nomination package can make all the difference. The following tips can help you put your best foot forward.

Sue Heddle wins the realtors care award in 2026
Sue Heddle receives the Canadian Real Estate Association’s Canadian REALTORS Care® Award 2026.

Your voice matters

As the nominator, you’re the storyteller. You can show why your REALTOR® or a REALTOR® you know deserves to be recognized. Your knowledge, perspective and examples can bring your nominee’s story to life.

Nominate a REALTOR® today!

Many hands make light work

Even if you know your nominee well, there may be ways they’ve given back that you haven’t seen or heard about.

Start your nomination by reaching out to friends, colleagues, family members, fellow volunteers and the organizations they support. They may be able to confirm details, share examples or point to parts of the nominee’s community impact you didn’t already know about. You can also work together to draft answers offline before adding them to the online nomination form.

Remember: The more you share, the more the selection committee knows about your nominee’s impact.

Make every part of the nomination count

You might have far more to say about your nominee than one form can hold. As you work through the nomination, think about what someone who’s never met your nominee would need to understand about their volunteerism and community impact.

Try giving each part of the nomination package a different job, so the committee learns something new or gains more detail as they read. It doesn’t all have to come together at once—give yourself time to build the story piece by piece.

Include multiple perspectives

Invite people who know the nominee’s impact first-hand to contribute a letter of support. Their experiences can add context, examples or insight that you may not be able to provide yourself. Send them this letter writing guide to help!

A picture is worth 1,000 words

A video, article, social media post or page of photos can show something that written answers can’t. Choose supporting material that adds context, fills in important details or helps demonstrate the nominee’s community impact. The REALTOR® you’re thinking about may never have set out to be recognized. That doesn’t mean their inspiring contributions should go unnoticed. Help people across Canada understand the time, care and commitment they’ve brought to their community.

Start your nomination today!
You have until Monday, November 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST to nominate a REALTOR® for the Canadian REALTORS Care® Award 2027 Proudly Presented by REALTOR.ca.

Visit REALTORSCare.ca/nominate to review the award requirements, find more helpful nomination tips and start your nomination.

Quand et comment faire évaluer la valeur de sa propriété

La forte variation des prix de l’immobilier au cours des dernières années a complexifié l’évaluation de la valeur des propriétés.  La valeur d’une propriété se reflète dans le prix de vente (intéressant pour les acheteurs et les vendeurs), mais aussi dans les coûts de reconstruction (intéressant pour les assureurs) ou dans le rendement qu’il est possible de générer (intéressant pour les investisseurs).  Que vous vous prépariez à vendre, à refinancer, à demander une révision de l’évaluation foncière ou à financer des travaux, plusieurs moments clés justifient de faire évaluer sa propriété par un professionnel.  Les courtiers et agents immobiliers ont recours à plusieurs techniques afin d’arriver à une valeur juste et réaliste. 

Analyse des caractéristiques d’une maison au moyen d’une application sur une tablette.

Cet article a été initialement publié le 09 janvier 2023 et a été mis à jour pour garantir que les informations restent exactes et pertinentes.

Trois techniques pour déterminer la valeur

Méthode d’analyse des comparables

La méthode la plus connue pour déterminer la valeur est la méthode dite de marché, qui consiste à examiner des propriétés similaires s’étant vendues récemment afin de déterminer la valeur marchande d’une propriété.  Les courtiers et agents immobiliers ont accès à des outils qui leur permettent de faire un tel travail de comparaison. L’évaluation accorde une valeur à certains critères comme la superficie, le nombre de pièces et de salles de bains, la présence de différentes composantes (piscine, garage, terrasse, etc.), l’état général du bâtiment et le temps écoulé depuis que les ventes comparables se sont produites.  Couple qui fait évaluer sa maison par une courtière immobilière.

Méthode du coût de remplacement

Partant de la valeur intrinsèque d’un bien immobilier (valeur sur le marché), cette méthode consiste à déterminer ce qu’il en coûterait pour faire construire un immeuble à un niveau de qualité et de finition identique.  Il s’agit d’analyser la valeur du coût de remplacement, en dehors de tout effet de marché, spéculatif ou dépréciatif.  Ici, les déterminants de la valeur sont les coûts des matériaux, de la main-d’œuvre et de financement si l’immeuble devait être reconstruit. Bien entendu, cette valeur peut varier significativement en fonction de la disponibilité des intrants.  Maisons enneigées.

Méthode du revenu

Si votre immeuble est loué, s’il s’agit d’un plex, ou si vous en tirez certains revenus, l’évaluation peut également être réalisée à partir des flux qui sont générés par la propriété.  En liant ceux-ci à un rendement comparable sur le marché pour un investissement du même niveau de risque, il est possible d’en déterminer la valeur. Cette technique est particulièrement utile si vous souhaitez vendre à un acheteur investisseur.  Dans le cas de variations importantes (comme ça a été le cas durant la pandémie), certains évaluateurs tiennent compte d’une période plus longue et calculent une moyenne des revenus afin d’obtenir une meilleure approximation de la valeur à long terme de l’immeuble.  Couple qui fait des calculs pour évaluer sa propriété.

Comment fait-on?

Bien qu’il ne soit pas possible de se substituer à un professionnel, chacun peut effectuer sa propre analyse, particulièrement en ayant recours à la technique des comparables, pour avoir une idée approximative de la valeur de sa propriété.  Pour ce faire, il est important d’analyser les propriétés vendues et non pas les inscriptions, car la différence de prix peut parfois varier significativement. Vous pourrez ainsi mieux comprendre ce qui est valorisé dans votre marché de référence, et quels paramètres affectent la valeur de la propriété. Certains éléments peuvent avoir un impact sur la valeur marchande perçue, comme des travaux à faire ou des équipements atypiques. Pour une évaluation précise de la valeur d’une propriété, faites appel à un professionnel, comme un courtier ou un agent immobilier. Vous serez ainsi en mesure de prendre de meilleures décisions en matière d’achat ou de vente, de financement, de négociation avec la municipalité ou avec votre institution financière. 

Home Insurance for New Homeowners: A Practical Guide

TD-Insurance

You’ve found the right home, which brings new possibilities and plenty of decisions. It also comes with a few important things to plan for, including your home insurance options.

Home insurance can help safeguard your property, personal belongings and financial well-being when unexpected events occur. We’ve collaborated with TD Insurance to help Canadians better understand home insurance earlier in your home buying journey.

Why do I need home insurance?

Your home is likely one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, so protecting it is an important part of planning for homeownership.

Home insurance is strongly recommended for the financial protection it can provide. It’s also important to know that mortgage lenders typically require proof of coverage before financing a property, as unexpected damage to your home or belongings can lead to significant expenses.

Home insurance helps protect you from having to cover those costs on your own. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving into a condo, or reviewing your current coverage, taking time to understand your needs can help you feel more confident making informed decisions to protect your investment.  It is recommended to have your home insurance active on your closing or move-in date. This can provide liability coverage if movers or repair professionals are on site.

How to choose the right insurance coverage

Home insurance can help protect your home, belongings, and finances from unexpected events such as theft, fire, and wind damage (subject to coverage limitations and exclusions). Standard policies may also cover temporary living expenses and personal liability, but the protection available depends on the type of policy you choose.

Home insurance is available for homeowners, condo owners, and tenants, with coverage varying by property type and location. Understanding these differences and any risks that may require optional protection can help you choose the right policy.

Coverage names vary by insurer, but home insurance generally falls into three tiers:

1️⃣ All Risks or Comprehensive
The broadest and most common option, covering the physical building and its contents against most risks, except those specifically excluded. Common exclusions are earthquakes and the optional coverages outlined below.
2️⃣ Broad
A mid-tier option that provides basic coverage for your belongings and broader coverage for the building. For example, if an accidental water leak damages both your walls and furniture, damage to the building would be covered unless the cause is excluded, while damage to the furniture would be covered only if that cause of loss is specifically listed in the policy.
3️⃣ Specified Perils or Basic
The most limited and typically least expensive option, covering the building and belongings only against risks specifically listed in the policy. For example, if fire and theft are listed perils, damage caused by a fire or stolen belongings may be covered, but a loss caused by an unlisted peril would not be. It may suit seasonal properties but leaves you with greater financial exposure.

Explore TD Insurance coverage options

Tip: Ask your insurance advisor whether optional coverage is available to help protect your family, valuables and other unique needs.
Optional add-on coverage for unique needs

Optional coverages, or endorsements, are available to help cover losses excluded from the main policy.  Common endorsements offer coverage for sewer backup, overland flooding, above-ground water entry, ice damming and earthquakes. Insurers can also tailor protection to your lifestyle, family and valuables.

Depending on your needs, additional coverage options may be available, including but not limited to:
✓Above-ground water damage protection for water entering through the roof, walls, doors or windows located above ground. An example, if wind-driven rain enters through a damaged roof or window causing damage to the interior of the home.
✓Extra coverage for valuables such as jewelry, artwork or collectibles if they are stolen, lost or damaged. These types of items may be worth more than the limit provided in a standard home policy. Personal valuables coverage can insure an item individually for replacement value or cover a collection under one overall amount subject to policy limits.
✓Identity theft recovery assistance and coverage for eligible expenses to restore your identity after personal information is stolen or misused. If someone uses your stolen personal information to open credit accounts, identity theft recovery may help you contact financial institutions, credit bureaus and other organizations, while covering eligible recovery expenses.
✓Increased liability protection with higher coverage limits for your home and auto policies. If a visitor slips on an icy walkway at your home and the resulting court award exceeds your home policy’s liability limit, Personal Umbrella Insurance may cover the remaining eligible amount, subject to policy terms.
✓Home-sharing coverage for occasional short-term rental activities. If a guest accidentally damages your property or is injured during their stay, specialized coverage may help with eligible repair costs or liability expenses that a standard home policy may not cover, subject to policy terms.

Learn more from TD Insurance

Did you know? While standard home insurance may cover sudden and accidental events such as a burst pipe or leaking appliance, other types of water damage like sewer backup or overland flooding may require optional coverage. Ask your insurance advisor what water-related risks are covered and whether additional protection is right for you.

How much home insurance do I need?

When it comes to insurance, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Planning ahead can help you choose the right protection that fits your budget. Review how much it could potentially cost to rebuild your home and replace your belongings in the event of a total loss.

It also helps to understand the weather-related risks that may be more common in your region.  Consider how you would recover financially in the event of a major loss and speak with an insurance advisor about suitable coverage and limits. TD Insurance offers customizable options that can help tailor your policy with optional protection and representatives are available to support you by phone or online.

How much does home insurance cost?

Home insurance costs vary based on your property, coverage needs and risk profile. Your premium (the amount paid monthly or annually) is influenced by factors such as your home’s location, age, construction, replacement cost and features, along with your selected coverage and deductible.

Potential savings may be available for bundling home and auto policies, choosing a higher deductible, installing eligible safety devices or being a member of a qualifying alumni, professional or affinity group.

When comparing quotes, look beyond price to assess applicable coverage, limits, deductibles, exclusions and service.

Explore ways you can save on home insurance

Did you know? Paying for home insurance may be easier than you think. Some insurers offer flexible payment options, including credit card and digital wallet payments like Apple Pay®, making it more convenient to manage your policy.
What else should I consider when purchasing or reviewing my home policy?

Notify your insurer before making major property changes, such as renovating or starting a home business. These changes may affect rebuilding costs, liability, risk, coverage and premiums. Keeping your policy current helps prevent coverage gaps, misrepresentation or an undisclosed material change in risk that could affect a future claim.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TD Insurance (@tdinsurance)

Home insurance FAQ

What does my policy cover?
Coverage varies depending on your selections. Review your policy renewal documents each year to confirm coverage for your home, belongings, liability and additional living expenses, and whether it is comprehensive or specified perils.
What limits apply?
Check limits for rebuilding, belongings, additional living expenses and valuables, and whether high-value items need extra coverage.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the amount you pay toward an eligible claim before your insurer pays the remaining covered amount. If a covered claim is $5,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you would pay $1,000 and your insurer would pay the remaining $4,000, subject to policy terms. Choosing a higher deductible may lower your premium, but make sure the amount is affordable if you need to make a claim.
What’s not covered?
Home insurance generally does not cover wear and tear, poor maintenance or the cost of repairing an item that fails. However, resulting damage from a sudden and accidental event may be covered. If a dishwasher component breaks and water damages your flooring or cabinets, the water damage may be covered, while repairing or replacing the failed component or the dishwasher itself typically would not be.
Do I need optional coverage?
Ask your insurance advisor about protection for water damage, earthquakes, identity theft, home sharing, green rebuilding and claim forgiveness. Availability varies.
What discounts are available?
Ask about savings for bundling, buying online, staying claims-free, eligible alarms, newer homes or group membership. Affinity discounts may provide preferred rates if you belong to an eligible alumni association, professional organization or employer group. When requesting a quote, ask whether the preferred group rate can be combined with other applicable savings. Eligibility, discounts and availability vary.
What digital tools are available?
If self-service is important to you, ask how you’ll interact with your insurer. You may be able to access documents digitally, report claims online, update your policy or make payments through self-serve channels. Digital capabilities and service options can vary between insurers.
How do claims work?
If you notice damage to your home, take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, then contact your insurer right away. Most insurers offer digital claims reporting or 24-hour phone support. Keep photos, receipts and a list of damaged items to support your claim. Your insurer will assess the loss, confirm what is covered and explain the next steps.
How should I compare quotes?
Each insurance option is different, so make sure you are comparing equivalent coverage, limits, deductibles, exclusions and options, not price alone.
What information do I need to provide?
Provide accurate details about the home, renovations, occupants, use, security features and claims history.

Glossary of Insurance Terms

Additional living expenses: Reasonable extra costs, such as temporary accommodation, when a covered loss makes your home unfit to live in.

Basic or specified-perils policy: A policy that covers only the causes of loss specifically listed in the policy.

Cash settlement: A claim payment made directly to you so you can arrange eligible repairs or replacement, subject to the policy terms and deductible.

Claim: A request to your insurer for payment or assistance after a loss that may be covered by your policy.

Claim forgiveness: Optional protection that may prevent a first eligible home insurance claim from increasing your premium at renewal, subject to conditions.

Comprehensive policy: A policy providing broad protection for the home and belongings against most risks, except those specifically excluded. Also referred to as All-risk coverage.

Coverage: The protection provided by an insurance policy, subject to its terms, limits, deductibles and exclusions.

Coverage gap: A situation in which a risk, property item or amount of loss is not fully protected by the policy.

Deductible: The amount you pay toward an eligible claim before the insurer pays the remaining covered amount.

Endorsement: An addition or change to a policy that adds, removes or modifies coverage.

Exclusion: A cause of loss, type of damage or circumstance that is not covered by the policy.

Limit: The maximum amount an insurer will pay for a particular coverage, property category or claim.

Material change in risk: A significant change—such as a major renovation or construction, home business or different occupancy—that could affect how the insurer assesses or prices the risk.

Overland flooding: Water overflowing onto dry land from a body of freshwater, such as rivers or dams that seeps into a home through windows, doors, or cracks.

Personal liability protection: Coverage provided in the event you are legally responsible for unintentionally injuring someone or damaging their property.

Policy: The insurance contract describing the coverage, limits, exclusions, conditions and responsibilities of the insurer and policyholder.

Premium: The amount paid monthly or annually to keep an insurance policy in force.

Rebuilding to code: Coverage for eligible additional costs needed to repair or rebuild a damaged home to current building-code standards after a covered loss.

Replacement cost or replacement value: The cost to repair or replace covered property with an item or materials of similar kind and quality, without deducting depreciation, subject to policy terms and limits.

Risk profile: The combination of factors an insurer considers when assessing the likelihood and potential cost of a loss.

Sewer backup: Water or sewage entering a home through a sewer, septic system, sump or drain; this may require optional coverage.

Insurance information in this article is provided by TD Insurance for general informational purposes only and is not intended as insurance, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Coverage, eligibility, products, features, discounts, and rates may vary and are subject to applicable terms, conditions, exclusions, and change. Individuals should speak with a qualified insurance professional about their specific circumstances before making insurance decisions. The insurance information provided does not necessarily reflect the views of REALTOR.ca. REALTOR.ca receives compensation for certain qualifying referrals generated through links in this article.

Canadian Home Sales Dip 0.7% in August as Mortgage Rate Risks Return

If you looked only at the latest national home sales number, you might think Canada’s housing market took a step backwards in August. Home sales fell 0.7%  from July, ending a run of four consecutive monthly increases.

And looking at home sales compared to the same time last year shows a noticeable drop of 6.9%.

But that’s the past. What most Canadian home buyers and owners want to know is how the latest real estate data released from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) means for them moving forward.

Here’s the tl;dr of this month’s data: Sales have remained largely unchanged since May. Home prices have been essentially flat since the spring. Even the amount of inventory available across the country has barely budged for four months.

As always, that doesn’t mean every local housing market looks the same. Conditions in Vancouver can be very different from Calgary, Montreal, Halifax or anywhere in between.

But nationally, the latest data from CREA suggests housing markets have, overall, settled into a bit of a holding pattern.

What has changed is some of the economic backdrop surrounding it.

Here’s what you need to know from August:

  • National home sales declined 0.7% month-over-month.
  • Actual (not seasonally adjusted) monthly activity came in 6.9% below August 2025.
  • The number of newly listed properties increased 3.3% month-over-month.
  • The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI), a tool that tracks home price levels and trends in local neighbourhoods, was unchanged from July and down 3% year-over-year.
  • The actual national average sale price was $668,219, up 0.6% from August 2025.

A chart showing canadian home sales

Canada’s national housing market didn’t move much in August

In this month’s CREA Housing Market Report, Senior Economist Shaun Cathcart summed up the latest national numbers pretty simply.

“I said last month that July was a carbon copy of June and I guess that makes August a carbon copy in triplicate… Basically, no change again,” Cathcart says in the video (watch below).

The 0.7% monthly decline in sales followed increases in each of the previous four months, but activity has effectively been moving sideways since May.

It’s a similar story for home prices, which have remained remarkably stable since the spring.

That stability is notable after a start to 2026 that saw considerably more movement across different parts of the country. Some previously hot markets were cooling, while activity in Ontario and British Columbia remained much weaker.

Over the summer, those differences began moving closer together and the national numbers started to flatten out.

Home sales to new listings chart

More homes came onto the market ahead of fall

There was one number that stood out a little more in August: new listings.

The number of newly listed properties jumped 3.3% from July, reversing three consecutive monthly declines earlier in the summer.

Cathcart points out in the Housing Market Report that the increase wasn’t isolated to one part of the country. Several of Canada’s largest housing markets saw listings rise around the same time, suggesting some sellers may have got an early start on the traditional fall market.

That could be welcome news if you’re currently searching for a home.

With listings rising and sales dipping slightly, the national sales-to-new listings ratio fell from 51.1% in July to 49.1% in August.

For context, CREA considers a ratio of roughly 45% to 65% to generally represent balanced housing market conditions. The long-term national average is 54.7%.

Put it all together and there’s no obvious national advantage emerging for either buyers or sellers heading into fall, but buyers may have a few more properties to choose from.

Canadian home prices remained stable in August

Then there are prices.

The seasonally adjusted National Composite MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) was unchanged between July and August.

Prices have now remained largely unchanged month-to-month since the spring, making this the longest period of national price stability since 2024, according to Cathcart.

Compared with August 2025, the MLS® HPI was still down 3%. However, those year-over-year declines have been getting smaller since January, and August recorded the smallest decrease since October 2025.

The actual national average sale price tells a slightly different story.

Homes that sold in August went for an average of $668,219, up 0.6% from the same month last year.

Those two numbers aren’t necessarily contradictory.

The national average sale price can change depending on the types of homes being sold and where those sales are happening. If a larger share of activity takes place in more expensive markets (i.e. Toronto or Vancouver) or among more expensive properties, for example, the national average can rise.

The MLS® HPI is designed to better track changes in home prices over time without being as heavily influenced by those shifts in the mix of properties being sold.

And, again, national figures only go so far. What’s happening to home prices where you live, or where you’re hoping to buy, could look considerably different.

What does the Canadian housing data for August suggest?

Sales have been largely unchanged for months, prices have stabilized, inventory is sitting close to its historical norm, and the national market remains within balanced territory.

For buyers heading into the fall market, the 3.3% increase in new listings could mean more options to consider without a corresponding jump in competition nationally.

For sellers, more homes hitting the market means understanding local conditions and pricing appropriately could become increasingly important.

And for both buyers and existing homeowners, there’s another factor worth watching again: borrowing costs.

Inflation risks have returned to the conversation, bond yields have moved higher, and the outlook for economic growth remains uncertain.

Fixed mortgage rates are heavily influenced by Government of Canada bond yields, meaning they can move even when the Bank of Canada leaves its policy rate unchanged.

And on the variable side, Cathcart points to a significant shift in what financial markets are expecting.

“A rate hike is not only back on the table for this year,” he says in the Housing Market Report.

A REALTOR® who knows your local market can help you understand what’s happening where you actually plan to buy or sell and how those conditions compare with the national picture.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by REALTOR.ca (@realtordotca)

Contact a REALTOR® today if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home.

Les meilleures randonnées d’automne au Canada

Le Canada regorge de magnifiques sentiers de randonnée pédestre. Il y a tellement de possibilités que chacun trouvera chaussure à son pied, et à son niveau. Pourquoi ne pas profiter des époustouflantes couleurs d’automne pour découvrir un nouveau sentier? Voici quelques-uns de nos coups de cœur, testés et approuvés. Randonneur sur le bord d’un lac au Québec à l’automne.

Cet article a été initialement publié le 26 septembre 2022 et a été mis à jour pour garantir que les informations restent exactes et pertinentes.

Sentier national au Québec (SNQ)

Le majestueux Sentier national au Québec (SNQ) s’étend sur  1650 km et sillonne neuf belles régions touristiques québécoises. De la capitale nationale, Ottawa, jusqu’à la ville de Gaspé, ce chemin balisé rouge et blanc dédié à la randonnée pédestre est le plus long du Québec en milieu naturel. Les écosystèmes (forêts mixtes et de conifères, lacs, rivières, marais, tapis de mousse accrochés aux falaises), qu’il faut quelquefois traverser par un pont suspendu, et les panoramas volés du haut des collines sont à couper le souffle. Le segment d’environ 170 km au cœur de la Matawinie, situé dans la région naturelle de Lanaudière, près de la ville de Joliette, fait partie des coups de cœur de nombreux randonneurs. Moins fréquentée, la section en Mauricie (près de la ville de Trois-Rivières) s’étend sur 90 km et permet de se sentir seul au monde. Des endroits pour dormir, qu’il s’agisse d’un camping, d’un abri trois-murs, d’un refuge, d’un chalet ou encore d’une auberge, sont prévus tout le long du chemin, à distance variable (entre 3 km et 18 km).

Randonneur contemplant la vue depuis le Sentier national au Québec.
Photo : Ariane Arpin-Delorme

Parc national Kluane, au Yukon

On dit du parc national Kluane qu’il est le lieu de tous les superlatifs. Cette aire protégée abrite les plus vastes champs de glace hors des régions polaires et, entre autres, le mont Logan, le plus haut sommet du pays et le deuxième d’Amérique du Nord (5 959 mètres). Les sentiers du parc ont de quoi satisfaire tous les goûts, de la courte promenade familiale à l’expédition de plusieurs jours dans l’arrière-pays. Les parcours proposés font partie des plus incroyables du Yukon. Porte d’entrée du parc national Kluane, la bourgade d’Haines Junction est située sur la route de l’Alaska, un axe populaire qui relie l’État américain du même nom et la Colombie-Britannique. On peut aussi jumeler sa visite avec le festival Kluane Mountain Bluegrass, qui se tient en juin.

Paysage dans le parc national Kluane.
Photo : Ariane Arpin-Delorme

Bruce Trail, en Ontario

L’épique sentier Bruce Trail, long de 1 300 km et qui suit l’impressionnant escarpement du Niagara, a pour but premier d’inspirer le lien entre les humains et la nature. Randonnée, course à pied, ornithologie, photographie et plus encore, le Bruce Trail est une invitation à la nature. À même le parc marin national Fathom Five, il est possible de suivre un segment en boucle, où l’on retrouve d’impressionnants points de vue de pics rocheux et d’eaux turquoise, qui font la renommée de la péninsule Bruce. Par exemple, l’excursion vers l’île Flowerpot, où l’on se rend en une trentaine de minutes de traversier au départ du port de Tobermory, vaut le détour. Sur cette île paradisiaque, un sentier de randonnée offre des arrêts sur les plages de roches, les eaux émeraude du lac Huron et les fameux piliers rocheux aux formes inusitées. La crique Indian Head abrite la célèbre Grotto, attrait incontournable du parc national de la Péninsule-Bruce. Randonneur observant des chutes d’eau depuis le Bruce Trail.

Sentier de la Côte-Ouest dans la réserve de parc national Pacific Rim en Colombie-Britannique

Située sur l’île de Vancouver, la réserve de parc national Pacific Rim offre d’innombrables sentiers pédestres afin de se ressourcer dans la forêt pluvieuse et d’observer sa faune unique, comme l’ours noir ou l’aigle. Le sentier de la Côte-Ouest, parcours de 75 km qui s’étend de la baie Pachena à la rivière Gordon, était anciennement emprunté par les Premières Nations pour faire des échanges et se déplacer. Vous pouvez sillonner la ville de Victoria, son marché, sa gastronomie, ses jardins Butchart et son architecture victorienne, dont l’imposant manoir Craigdarroch. Traverser une partie de l’île de Vancouver permet d’atteindre l’incontournable petite ville portuaire de Tofino, reconnue pour son environnement naturel époustouflant et populaire auprès des surfeurs. On peut y observer des phoques, des orques et des baleines. Femme sur un rocher les bras dans les airs dans le parc national Pacific Rim.

Parcs nationaux Banff et Jasper, en Alberta

Les lacs et montagnes de l’Alberta offrent des paysages parmi les plus spectaculaires d’Amérique du Nord. Avant d’enfiler ses chaussures de marche, on peut faire escale à Calgary, pour profiter de la gastronomie de chefs réputés. La route vers Canmore permet de faire une courte randonnée près des lacs Grassi pour admirer les sommets rocheux des Three Sisters. On peut poursuivre son chemin par la découverte du parc national Banff, qui offre une grande variété de sentiers pédestres dans un environnement enchanteur, incluant le célèbre lac Louise. Les vues panoramiques le long de la promenade des Glaciers sont à couper le souffle! On peut y admirer plus de cent glaciers millénaires qui alimentent de nombreuses chutes et plusieurs lacs turquoise dans les vallées profondes. Enfin, il est possible d’explorer à pied l’environnement alpin du parc national Jasper et du lac Maligne. Paysage dans le Parc national Jasper. Cet article est destiné à vous inspirer pour de futures excursions à pied à travers le Canada! 

6 Red Flags a Home Inspection Can Warn You About

When putting in an offer on a home, one condition that’s almost always included is a home inspection.

A home inspection isn’t generally mandatory, but it can help identify potential concerns before you commit to the purchase. An inspector will typically look at major systems and components such as the electrical, plumbing, roofing, heating and cooling systems, foundation, and visible structural elements.

A standard home inspection is generally a visual, non-invasive examination of accessible areas of the property, so it won’t necessarily uncover every possible issue. Still, a qualified inspector can identify signs of problems that may warrant a closer look.

Requirements for home inspectors vary across Canada, including whether licensing is required. Organizations such as InterNACHI® and CanNACHI® provide certification, training, and standards of practice for home inspectors. When hiring an inspector, consider asking about their training and certifications, experience with the type of property you’re buying, references, insurance, and whether they provide a written inspection report.

Home inspectors examine many different elements of a property, but there are some issues they encounter more often than others. Below are some of the top problems an inspector may spot, sometimes even before walking through the door.

This article was originally published August 22, 2023, and has been edited to ensure the information remains accurate and relevant.

Cracks in the drywall and foundation

1. Cracks in the drywall and foundation

Old or new, most homes will have minor cracks. Although the thought of seeing cracks in a wall or floor might put you off, Shawn Anderson, CanNACHI®-certified owner of The Inspector in Vancouver, British Columbia, says “most drywall cracks are due to settlement or poor installation and are not often a cause for concern.” The location, shape, size and direction of a crack is also important.

🚩 “Horizontal, uneven, and/or diagonal cracks could be an indication of movement,” says Anderson, “as well as cracks in the foundation which could be a possible sign of a major problem.”

Common electrical problems

2. Electrical work

The most common electrical issue Anderson sees during an inspection is unsafe electrical installations.

Both of these issues are a safety concern because they can cause damage to electrical infrastructure. Although it’s harder for an untrained eye to spot electrical issues, some easy ones to look for during a walkthrough include flickering lights, loud buzzing sounds, and crowded or tangled wiring.

🚩 “Often the wrong size breaker is installed or multiple circuits are on one breaker (also known as double tapping),” he says. Flickering lights can also be an indication of poor electrical work.

Plumbing inspection

3. Plumbing

When it comes to plumbing, inspectors will take a look at the hot water tank, drainage system, fixtures, metres, and valves. Hot water tanks last about 10 years, so if your prospective home is nearing this age, be aware you may need to replace the tank if you own it. Your home inspector will be able to spot an aging plumbing system, and give you an idea of when it might need to be repaired.

Checking water pressure is also important. Too much or not enough pressure can damage the fixtures and pipes. Although it’s best to get a professional’s opinion, if you want to test this on your own there are “easy water pressure testing devices available on sites like Amazon that attach to the end of a faucet to shower neck,” says Anderson.

🚩 Moisture in the walls can be a big indicator of a plumbing issue, so if a home inspector spots this, they consider it a red flag almost immediately. Moisture could also mean the presence of mould, which is another big issue.

4. HVAC systems

Home inspectors also spend time examining the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) of a home. An inspector will check to see if there are any immediate issues with the thermostat and controls, wiring system, as well as the fan, gas lines, and electrical current.

Many home inspectors can perform HVAC checks, and in some instances, it may be a good idea to bring in a professional who specializes in this space.

🚩 Open windows (at a time of year when it seems a bit odd to do so) could be an indicator of an ill-working HVAC system, as homeowners may be trying distract from the system’s inability to regulate temperature. Dents in the metal, peeling tape, loose seams, and torn or collapsed sections of flex ducts could also be indicators the system hasn’t been properly maintained during the current homeowners’ tenure.

Inspecting HVAC systems

5. Roof issues

The roof is one of the first things you see when walking up to a house, and arguably one of the most important to make sure is in good shape. A home inspector will likely climb on top of the roof to get a closer look. They’ll look for things like missing or warped shingles, too much caulk or sealant, and should make sure the flashing is in good shape. Flashing is a thin piece of metal installed to keep water away from the walls and chimney.

🚩 Two other roof issues that can occur are moss and a saggy roof. Which one is worse you ask? Anderson says that although moss can cause premature deterioration, it can be cleaned, but a sagging roof is much more serious and requires investigation to determine its cause.

Roofing inspections

6. DIY home repairs

Any time you do a home repair by yourself, you’re risking major red flags come home inspection time. While doing the repairs yourself, or through an unlicensed professional, might save you costs upfront, they can seriously impact the result of a home inspection and end up being the reason a sale falls through.

This isn’t to say you can’t do any types of repairs yourself, but when it comes to things that affect the functionality—especially electrical, plumbing or structural projects—it’s best to leave it to the pros.

🚩 The red flags here depend on the project, but typically things like disorganized electrical wires, outlets installed too close to water sources, cracked or jagged tiles around corners, furniture placed in odd spots to hide damage to walls or unsightly warped floors, can all indicate a DIY project which could lead to larger issues and discoveries.

Before buying a home, getting a home inspection by a licensed CanNACHI® professional is essential. Not only does it help identify major red flags that could end a deal, but it also gives you insight to potential issues that may come down the line if you chose to go through with the purchase. Moreover, you can have time to budget and prepare for maintenance and potential future upgrades. Finally, a home inspection can also give you leverage during the negotiating process to get you that perfect price.

You may also be interested in reading…