BuyingHomeownership April 3, 2023

Canada Foreign Home Buyers Policy and How it Affects Foreign Buyers

As a real estate team that values transparency, we want to provide you with important information about the foreign homebuyer’s policy that is now in place in Canada as of January 1, 2023. This ban aims to make homes more affordable for Canadian residents by limiting foreign investment. This ban applies to residential properties such as detached homes, semi-detached houses, rowhouse units, residential condominium units, and similar premises in census metropolitan areas or core areas. Vacant land zoned for residential or mixed-use and purchasing it for the purpose of development is unaffected.

 

Please remember that recreational properties like cottages, lake houses, and residential properties in municipalities with a core population of less than 10,000 are not subject to the ban. Additionally, non-Canadians can still purchase more significant buildings with multiple units.

 

This ban addresses the housing affordability crisis in Canada, where the average house cost is 67% more than the average Canadian household can afford. This ban is expected to create new opportunities for Canadians to purchase residential properties by opening up the supply.

 

However, refugee claimants, international students who meet specific criteria, and non-Canadians with a spouse or common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, person registered under the Indian Act, or refugee are exempt from the ban.

 

Those who violate the ban can face penalties of up to $10,000 and may be required to sell the property they purchased. Anyone who knowingly assists a non-Canadian with their purchase may also face fines.

 

As your trusted real estate team, we are committed to informing you about the latest Canadian housing market developments. Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions or concerns about this issue.

Lifestyle July 22, 2022

5 Dog-Friendly Patios in Saskatoon

Saskatoon has a variety of restaurants, but have you ever wanted to bring your four-legged friend along for a meal? 

Never leave your dog at home again with these delightful restaurants with pet-friendly patios.

 

Prairie Sun Brewery

Prairie Sun is located just after the bridge on Broadway. It is easily walkable with your furry friend from downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods. Sit down, drink a beer and eat some delicious food on their sunny patio, which is open for dogs and people alike. Prairie Sun started as just a local craft beer brewery and has expanded into the restaurant hot spot it is today.

 

Leopold’s Tavern (Rosewood)

The Rosewood location of Leopold’s Tavern has a great dog-friendly patio, enclosed with a backyard vibe. The patio features an exclusive pet and person-side entrance. The staff graciously greets you with a treat for your dog. Enjoy elevated pub food and a great selection of drinks at the Tavern.

 

Stumbletown Distilling

Stumbletown is a new establishment on Quebec Avenue, off Idylwyld—an easy walk from Mayfair or Caswell Hill. The quaint patio is a great place to bring your dog, have a few drinks, munch on some snacks and unwind. The distillery makes various flavours of gin and gin cocktails. On your way out, grab a bottle of gin to take home!

 

Cohen’s Beer Republic

Cohen’s is located in Riversdale on the corner of Idylwyld and 20th Street. You can’t miss the curved dark blue building! There is a small, yet mighty, patio for you and your dog to enjoy, which is very walkable from downtown, Riversdale, or other surrounding neighbourhoods. They have lovely drinks and an eclectic menu sure to please anyone. 

 

City Perks

City Perks is an adorable local cafe in the heart of City Park. A semi-enclosed deck is an excellent place for your pup, and it’s well shaded with mature trees and table umbrellas—a quick walk from the river pathways and parks along Spadina. The cafe’s food, drink and dessert menus are incredible. Bring your dog and stay for the cheesecake.

 

Make any outing more enjoyable by bringing your dog with you to these yummy Saskatoon restaurants. All of these eateries have a nice patio space to share food, drinks, and a water bowl with your four-legged friend!

LifestyleLifestyle June 3, 2022

10 Saskatoon Summer Hot Spots You Need To Check Out!

With gas prices skyrocketing as of late, you might be rethinking your family’s schedule of upcoming events these next few months. Though heading out of town every weekend isn’t looking particularly appealing this summer, that doesn’t mean you’re in for a season of boredom. Whether you’re new to the Paris of the Prairies or are a seasoned Saskatoonian, here’s your go-to guide to the city’s local hot spots you should definitely check out this summer!

Saskatoon Pride Festival & Market

  • Takes place at River Landing starting at 2 PM on June 18th!
  • Tons of events planned including:
    • A stage concert featuring local 2SLGBTQ+ talent
    • Market of local businesses, artisans and artists
    • Delicious food
    • Family fun area for all ages supported by Grosvenor United Church
    • Beer gardens hosted by Alt Hotel

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan

  • Truly unique theatre experience with the South Saskatchewan River as your backdrop
  • First show on July 2nd and goes until August 21st!
  • Catch one of three mainstage shows:
    • Cymbeline by William Shakespeare – July 2nd to August 14th
    • Shakespeare’s Will by Vern Theissen – July 14 to July 31st
    • Iago Speaks by Daniel Macdonald – August 8th to August 21st

Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival

  • June 30th to July 7th at The Bessborough Gardens, Broadway Theatre, Amigos Cantina, The Basement, Victoria Park, Maurice Drouin Lounge and DTN YXE
  • Each summer, Saskatoon plays host to hundreds of world class artists and 75,000 hungry music fans for jazz, blues, funk, pop and more!

The Fringe Festival

  • July 28th to August 6th on Broadway Avenue from 12th Street to Main Street
  • Celebrate local, provincial and international artists through in person and online performances in various locations 
  • Food trucks, artisan vendors, carnival games, accessible washrooms and much, much more!

Saskatoon Ex

  • August 9th to August 14th at Prarieland Park
  • Saskatchewan’s largest summer event with 6 days of non-stop entertainment!
  • Rides and entertainment for endless family fun

Rock102 Rock the River 

  • August 19th to 21st
  • Saskatchewan’s Classic Rock Festival feature an outstanding line-up of Canadian Classic Rock bands
  • RAIN or SHINE outdoor music festival in the Delta Bessborough Gardens at the Delta Hotels by Marrio Bessborough

Remai Modern 

  • Something on Sundays: Takes place from 1 PM-4 PM every Sunday featuring a new artmaking activity each week. SoS is free to attend, no admission or registration required!
  • Remai Modern also hosts Public Tours on Saturdays & Sundays

The Prairie Lily

  • Get a unique tour experience of Saskatoon on the South Saskatchewan River all summer long!

The Berry Barn

  • The perfect little get away from the city with panoramic views of the river and with the relaxing countryside and scenic gardens
  • Delectable homestyle meals and unforgettable Saskatoon berry pie. Need we say more?

Saskatoon Forestry Farm and Zoo

  • All generations can explore the beautiful park landscape with intimate gardens, historic buildings and a variety of western Candian animals and exotic species 
  • Saskatchewan’s only CAZA-AZAC accredited zoo

Can’t wait to check them out as an official Saskatoon resident but haven’t found your dream home yet? We can help! Looking for even more fun to keep the kiddos entertained, check out our blog!