Your furnace works hard to keep your home warm during Winnipeg’s long winters, and your filter plays a surprisingly big role in keeping it running efficiently. But how often should you actually change it? The answer depends on your home, your furnace, and your lifestyle.

Why Furnace Filters Matter

Furnace filters trap dust, allergens, pet dander, and other debris. A clean filter means:

• Better air quality inside your home

• Improved furnace efficiency (lower heating bills)

• Longer lifespan for your furnace system

A dirty filter makes your furnace work harder, which can lead to breakdowns or higher energy costs.

General Guidelines

Most manufacturers recommend changing furnace filters every 3 months, but this isn’t one-size-fits-all. Consider the following factors:

1. Type of Filter

• Standard fiberglass: change every 1–3 months

• Pleated high-efficiency: 3–6 months

• HEPA filters: check manufacturer guidelines; usually 6–12 months

2. Home Environment

• Pets: Homes with cats or dogs may need filter changes every 1–2 months

• Allergies: If anyone in your home suffers from allergies, check monthly

• Dust levels: If you live in a construction-heavy area or near dirt roads, change more frequently

3. Furnace Usage

• Winter months: filter may clog faster due to heavy use

• Summer months (if furnace is off but air conditioning uses the same system): check at least once per season

Signs You Need to Change Your Filter

Even if it hasn’t been 3 months, replace your filter if you notice:

• Visible dirt, dust, or discoloration

• Decreased airflow from vents

• Higher heating bills

• Furnace running longer than usual to maintain temperature

Quick Tips for Winnipeg Homeowners

• Mark your calendar or set a reminder every 1–3 months.

• Keep spare filters handy—running out during the middle of a cold snap is never fun!

• Always check your furnace manual for manufacturer-specific guidance.

My Take

Regular filter changes are one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to keep your furnace and home in top shape. In Winnipeg winters, a clean filter isn’t just convenient—it’s essential for comfort, efficiency, and safety.

Selling your home is exciting, but living in it while it’s for sale can feel like a full-time job. Between keeping the house show-ready, managing schedules, and staying out of the way of showings, the process can quickly become overwhelming if you’re not prepared for what daily life actually looks like.

Knowing what to expect — including the hidden stressors and costs — can make the experience far more manageable.

One of the biggest mental shifts sellers face is realizing that, for a short time, their home stops being purely personal space and becomes a product. Buyers are walking through, evaluating every detail, and imagining their own life there. That can feel uncomfortable, especially when feedback comes in. Learning to separate emotion from strategy early on helps sellers stay grounded and make better decisions throughout the process.

Another reality many sellers don’t anticipate is how often they’ll be out of the house. Showings typically happen in the evenings and on weekends — exactly when families are home. With short notice requests, it’s common to find yourself grabbing the kids, the dog, and heading out the door. Over time, this often leads to eating out more than usual. Whether it’s quick drive-thru meals, coffee shop stops, or last-minute dinners, these small expenses add up. It’s a good idea to factor a bit of extra spending into your budget while your home is on the market.

If you have pets, they add another layer to the equation. While many buyers love animals, pets during showings can be distracting and sometimes stressful for everyone involved. If possible, arranging for pets to stay with family or friends during busy showing periods can make the process smoother. If that’s not an option, having a plan — such as quick exits, designated crates, or scheduled walks — can help reduce stress for both you and your pets.

Cleaning is another underestimated part of selling. When your home is listed, “normal clean” usually isn’t enough. Floors, bathrooms, kitchens, and high-touch areas need frequent attention, especially if you’re living in the home day-to-day. For many sellers, this means cleaning far more often than usual or even bringing in professional cleaners to maintain that just-listed feel. While it’s an added cost and effort, a consistently clean home makes a strong impression and can directly impact buyer perception.

Flexibility also becomes essential. Plans may change last minute, showings may interrupt routines, and privacy can feel limited. Sellers who approach this phase knowing it’s temporary — and with systems in place — tend to feel far less overwhelmed. Simple habits like keeping clutter contained, having a quick tidy routine, and planning easy meals can go a long way.

The key to surviving the selling process isn’t perfection. It’s preparation, realistic expectations, and support. Selling a home is disruptive by nature, but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right guidance and a clear plan, sellers can move through this season with far less stress and a lot more confidence.

If you’re thinking about selling and wondering what the process will really feel like, having these conversations early can help you plan properly — and avoid surprises along the way.

When temperatures drop fast and stay there, small issues can turn into expensive problems. If winter has already settled in, these are the most important things homeowners should be paying attention to now.

1. Keep your heat consistent
Avoid large temperature swings inside your home. Turning the heat way down at night can increase the risk of frozen pipes, especially in older homes. A steady temperature protects your plumbing and your furnace.

2. Watch for frozen pipe warning signs
Low water pressure, strange noises in the pipes, or no water at all are red flags. If a faucet isn’t working, don’t ignore it. Shut off your main water supply and call a professional before a small freeze becomes a burst pipe.

3. Let warm air reach vulnerable pipes
Open cabinet doors under sinks along exterior walls to allow heat to circulate. In extreme cold snaps, letting faucets drip slightly overnight can help prevent freezing.

4. Clear snow away from your foundation
Snow piled against the house can melt and refreeze, increasing the risk of foundation leaks and ice buildup. Keep snow cleared a few feet away from your home where possible.

5. Prevent ice dams on the roof
Watch for thick ice forming along roof edges. Ice dams trap melting snow, forcing water under shingles and into the house. If you notice them, address them safely or call a professional — this isn’t a DIY ladder situation in winter.

6. Change your furnace filter now
A clogged filter reduces airflow, increases heating costs, and strains your system during the coldest time of year. This is one of the easiest and most overlooked winter fixes.

7. Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
With furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters working overtime, functioning detectors are essential. Replace batteries immediately — don’t wait for the chirp.

8. Be careful with space heaters
If you’re using them, keep them away from curtains, furniture, and walkways. Plug directly into the wall, never into power bars or extension cords.

9. Check doors and windows for ice buildup
Ice around frames can prevent proper sealing and cause drafts or water intrusion when it melts. Gently clear buildup and keep an eye on condensation forming indoors — it can be a sign of ventilation issues.

10. Have an emergency plan
Know where your main water shut-off is. Keep a basic winter emergency kit on hand: flashlights, batteries, ice melt, and contact info for a plumber and furnace tech.

Winnipeg winters test every home. Staying ahead of small issues now can save thousands later and protect your home’s value. If you ever have questions about winter maintenance, renovations, or what buyers pay attention to during cold months, we’re always happy to be a resource.

The biggest mistake Winnipeg homeowners make when selling in 2026 isn’t pricing too high, choosing the wrong realtor, or missing the perfect week to list.

It’s waiting too long to prepare.

Every year, sellers underestimate how much planning, strategy, and groundwork goes into a successful sale. Then they scramble, overspend, or leave money on the table—all because they assumed there was “plenty of time.”

Why Waiting Is So Costly in the Winnipeg Real Estate Market

Winnipeg’s real estate market rewards preparation. Homes that sell quickly and for strong prices don’t happen by accident—they’re positioned that way.

When homeowners wait until the year they want to sell:

• Repairs become urgent instead of strategic

• Renovations are rushed or unnecessary

• Pricing decisions are made emotionally, not analytically

• Listings blend in instead of standing out

Spring markets move fast in Winnipeg. If your home isn’t ready when buyers are actively searching, you lose momentum before you even start.

Preparation Is About Strategy, Not Renovation

Many sellers assume preparing means spending tens of thousands of dollars. That belief alone causes hesitation and delay.

In reality, the most impactful preparation focuses on:

• Fixing visible maintenance issues

• Improving how the home shows, not how it’s redesigned

• Creating confidence for buyers

Buyers in Winnipeg are cautious and well-informed. They don’t expect perfection, but they do expect honesty, care, and homes that feel well maintained. Those expectations are easier—and cheaper—to meet when you plan ahead.

Deferred Maintenance Hurts More Than Outdated Style

Older homes are common in Winnipeg, and buyers know that. What they’re far less forgiving about is neglected maintenance.

Issues like:

• Aging furnaces or roofing concerns

• Poor insulation or drafty windows

• Plumbing or electrical red flags

These don’t just affect inspections—they affect buyer perception. When buyers sense risk, they protect themselves with lower offers or stronger conditions.

Taking care of these items early gives you control over costs and prevents deals from unraveling later.

Pricing Without Context Is Another Costly Error

One of the most damaging mistakes sellers make is relying on outdated or surface-level pricing expectations.Online estimates and neighbour comparisons don’t account for:

• Condition differences

• Buyer behaviour at the time you’ll list

• Inventory levels in your specific area of Winnipeg

Preparation gives you time to understand market trends, refine expectations, and choose a pricing strategy that attracts buyers instead of pushing them away.

Decluttering Late Limits Your Home’s Potential

Decluttering is often underestimated, yet it directly impacts how buyers feel in a home.

When it’s rushed:

• Rooms feel smaller

• Storage looks insufficient

• Showings feel chaotic

When it’s done early:

• Space becomes a selling feature

• Buyers focus on the home, not belongings

• Staging becomes easier and more effective

This is one of the simplest changes—and one of the most powerful.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home in 2026 doesn’t start in 2026—it starts now.

The biggest mistake isn’t doing the wrong things. It’s doing nothing and hoping for the best. With the right preparation and guidance, selling can be controlled, strategic, and rewarding.

Thinking about selling your Winnipeg home in 2026?
Let’s create a clear, realistic plan that helps you avoid costly mistakes and puts you in the strongest possible position when you’re ready.

A new year has a way of forcing big questions to the surface. For many Winnipeg families, one of the biggest is this:

Should we move this year… or stay put?

The right answer isn’t about trends or timing the market perfectly. It’s about whether your home still supports the life your family is actually living.

When Your Home No Longer Fits Your Life

Families change faster than houses do.

Some of the most common signs it may be time to move include:

• You’ve outgrown your space—or you’re rattling around in too much of it

• Your layout no longer works for daily life

• Storage is constantly an issue

• You’re planning major life changes (new baby, aging parents, work-from-home needs)

If your home creates daily friction instead of ease, that’s worth paying attention to.

Location Still Matters

A home can be beautiful and still be wrong for your lifestyle. Location impacts:

• School catchments

• Commute times during winter

• Access to parks, childcare, and amenities

If your current location no longer supports your routine or values, moving can improve quality of life more than any renovation ever will.

Can You Fix the Problem Without Moving?

Not every frustration requires a move.

Before making a decision, ask:

• Could renovations realistically solve the issue?

• Would the cost of updating outweigh the cost of moving?

• Would changes still leave you compromised on location?

Renovating makes sense when it improves functionality and aligns with long-term plans. Moving makes sense when renovations feel like a workaround instead of a solution.

The Financial Side: Comfort Over Maximum

A smart move isn’t about buying the most expensive home you qualify for. It’s about financial comfort.

Consider:

• Monthly payments that still allow for savings and lifestyle

• Property taxes, utilities, and maintenance

• Stability if interest rates or life circumstances change

In Winnipeg, affordability is still a strength—but only if the numbers work comfortably for your family, not just on paper.

What a Smart Move Actually Looks Like

A thoughtful move usually includes:

• Clear reasons for moving (not pressure or fear)

• Financial clarity

• A realistic plan for selling and buying

• Support from professionals who prioritize your goals

When those pieces are in place, moving feels intentional instead of stressful.

Final Thoughts

A new year doesn’t mean you have to move—but it’s the perfect time to evaluate whether your current home still serves your family.

The right decision isn’t always obvious. It becomes clear when you slow down, look at the full picture, and focus on what truly matters.

When most people think about buying a home in Winnipeg, they picture spring lawns, summer showings, and packed open houses. January rarely makes the list. And that’s exactly why it can be one of the smartest times to buy.

If you’re willing to look past the snowbanks and cold temperatures, January offers advantages that buyers simply don’t get during peak season.

Less Competition = More Leverage for Buyers

January consistently has fewer active buyers in the Winnipeg real estate market. Many people pause their home search over the holidays or decide to “wait until spring.”

That drop in competition matters.

Fewer buyers means:

• Less chance of multiple-offer situations

• More time to think through decisions

• Greater negotiating power on price, possession dates, and conditions

In a market where competition can heat up quickly, buying when others are on the sidelines gives you a serious edge.

January Sellers Are Often Highly Motivated

Homeowners who list in January are rarely testing the waters. In Winnipeg, winter listings often come from sellers who:

• Are relocating for work

• Have already purchased another home

• Need to sell due to life changes

These sellers are typically more flexible and open to negotiations. That can translate into better pricing, smoother terms, or faster agreements—things that become much harder to secure once spring demand ramps up.

Winter Shows You the Real Condition of a Home

One of the biggest advantages of buying in January is that Winnipeg’s winter doesn’t hide problems—it exposes them.

Cold weather reveals:

• Drafts and insulation issues

• Furnace performance and heating efficiency

• Ice buildup, condensation, or ventilation concerns

• How well the home handles snow and winter conditions

A house that performs well in January is far less likely to surprise you later. From a long-term ownership perspective, this insight is incredibly valuable.

More Time, Less Pressure

Spring markets in Winnipeg move fast. Listings appear and disappear quickly, and buyers often feel rushed to make decisions.

January is different.

Homes tend to stay on the market longer, allowing buyers to:

• Review documents thoroughly

• Book inspections without stress

• Have real conversations about strategy and affordability

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Slowing the process down isn’t a weakness—it’s a smart move.

Who January Buying Is Best For

Buying in January isn’t for everyone—but it’s ideal if you:

• Want to avoid bidding wars

• Value negotiation and flexibility

• Prefer a strategic, calm buying experience

• Are financially prepared and ready to act

If that sounds like you, January deserves serious consideration.

Final Thoughts

January may not look like the “perfect” time to buy a home in Winnipeg—but strategically, it’s one of the strongest.

Less competition, motivated sellers, clearer insight into a home’s condition, and better negotiating power all work in the buyer’s favour. By the time spring arrives and everyone else is jumping back into the market, many January buyers are already settled—and glad they didn’t wait.

Thinking about buying a home in Winnipeg this year?
A smart purchase starts with a smart strategy. Let’s talk about whether January buying makes sense for you and how to position you for success in today’s market.

As Thanksgiving weekend arrives, we can’t help but reflect on what home really means.
For most of us, home isn’t just four walls and a roof — it’s where family gathers, laughter fills the kitchen, and memories are made. As realtors, we have the privilege of helping people find those spaces where life unfolds, and that’s something we’re incredibly grateful for this season.

This year has been full of change and growth — both in the real estate market and in the families we’ve been honoured to serve.

🏡 Winnipeg Market Snapshot — October 2025

The fall market has been strong across Winnipeg.
According to the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board, September saw 1,391 home sales, which is up about 12% from last year and 7% higher than the 5-year average. That’s a clear sign that buyer demand is holding steady, even with mortgage rates keeping some people cautious.

Detached homes continue to move well, especially in the $350,000–$500,000 range, and we’re seeing renewed confidence among both first-time buyers and those looking to move up. With more balanced inventory compared to earlier in the year, it’s a healthy time to make a move — whether you’re buying or selling.

💛 A Season of Gratitude

This Thanksgiving feels extra special for our family. We are beyond grateful for the newest little member of our family, who has brought so much joy, laughter, and love into our home. Every day reminds us of why home is so much more than just a place — it’s where memories are made, milestones are celebrated, and love grows.

We’re also incredibly thankful for our amazing clients, friends, and community. Being part of your journeys, whether helping you buy your first home, sell, or move into your forever space, is truly a privilege. Your trust and stories inspire us every day.

From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, gratitude, and good company.

– The Penner Team
Helping you love where you live.

The real estate market right now is red-hot. There are numerous buyers actively searching, but the number of listings is low. This imbalance is creating fierce competition for the properties that do hit the market, leading to multiple-offer situations and increasing home prices. If you’re planning to buy in this environment, it’s important to set realistic expectations and be fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

How Can Buyers Be Prepared?

1. Get Pre-Approved and Have Your Finances Ready

Before you even start shopping for a home, securing mortgage pre-approval is crucial. This not only helps you understand what you can afford but also demonstrates to sellers that you’re a serious buyer. In a competitive market, a strong financial position can be the difference between having your offer accepted or missing out. Work closely with your mortgage specialist to ensure all your financial documents are in order so you can act quickly when you find the right home.

2. Understand That List Price Does Not Equal Purchase Price

In this competitive market, properties often sell for well above their listing price. Many homes are receiving multiple offers, and buyers are frequently bidding higher to secure a property. This means you may need to adjust your expectations and budget accordingly. It’s important to work with a knowledgeable real estate professional who can guide you on making strong, competitive offers while staying within your financial comfort zone.

3. Stay Determined – Your First Offer May Not Be Accepted

One of the biggest challenges buyers face in this market is rejection. With so many competing offers, it’s unlikely that your first bid will be successful. It’s important to stay patient and persistent. Some buyers go through several offers before finally securing a home. While it can be frustrating, understanding that this is a normal part of the process will help you stay focused on your goal.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in a seller’s market isn’t impossible, but it does require preparation, flexibility, and perseverance. By having your finances in order, understanding pricing realities, and maintaining determination, you’ll be in the best possible position to find and secure the right home for you.

If you’re looking to navigate this market with confidence, let’s connect! The Penner Team is here to help you every step of the way.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. Many first-time buyers make common mistakes that can cost them time, money, and unnecessary stress. The good news? These mistakes are avoidable!

Here are the top pitfalls to watch out for—and how to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success.

1. Not Getting Pre-Approved Before House Hunting

Many buyers start shopping for homes without first knowing how much they can afford. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage helps you:
✅ Know your budget
✅ Show sellers you’re serious
✅ Avoid disappointment if you fall in love with a home that’s out of reach

How to avoid it: Connect with a mortgage specialist early in the process. At our Home Buyers Event on March 13th, we’ll have Brendan MacPherson from Castle Mortgages sharing insider tips on mortgage approvals and financing options.

2. Not Understanding Closing Costs

It’s not just about the down payment! Many buyers forget to budget for closing costs, which typically range from 1.5% to 3.5% of the home’s purchase price. These include legal fees, land transfer taxes, home inspections, and more.

3. Skipping The Home Inspection

In a competitive market, some buyers are tempted to waive the home inspection to make their offer more appealing. But this can lead to expensive surprises down the road. A home inspection helps you uncover potential issues with the property before you buy.

How to avoid it: We’ll have Adam Clement, a professional home inspector from A Unique Task, at our Home Buyers Event to share what to look for in a home inspection and why it’s so important.

4. Making Emotional Decisions

Buying a home is exciting, but emotions can sometimes cloud judgment. Falling in love with a house and stretching your budget can lead to financial strain. It’s important to stay practical and stick to your budget.

How to avoid it: We’ll walk you through how to set realistic expectations and make smart decisions when buying your first home.

Join Us on March 13th for Our Free Home Buyers Event!

If you’re thinking about buying your first home, don’t do it alone! Our Home Buyers Event is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.

📍 When: March 13, 2025
📍 Where: Bronx Park Community Center
📍 Featuring: Mortgage specialists, financial experts, home inspectors, and The Penner Team

🎟 Free to attend! Plus, enjoy food from Cottage Bakery & win prizes!

👉 Reserve your spot today! https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1244053159489?aff=oddtdtcreator

The start of a new year is the perfect time for reflection and setting goals—especially if homeownership is one of your top priorities. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home this year or just beginning the journey, making a few homebuyer resolutions can help you stay on track and make the process smoother. Here are five resolutions that will set you up for success in your home buying journey in 2025.

1. Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a major role in securing a mortgage and getting a competitive interest rate. A higher score can save you thousands over the life of your loan. Take the time this year to review your credit report, identify areas for improvement, and make a plan to boost your score. This might include paying down credit card balances, disputing any errors on your report, or setting up automatic payments to avoid late fees.

2. Establish a Realistic Budget

Before you start browsing homes, it’s essential to establish a clear budget. A budget doesn’t just include your down payment—it should cover monthly mortgage payments, property taxes, home insurance, utilities, and maintenance costs. Take a close look at your income and expenses, and use a mortgage calculator to estimate how much you can afford to borrow. Aim to set a budget that leaves room for savings and unexpected expenses, ensuring that you don’t stretch yourself too thin financially.

3. Save for a Down Payment (and Beyond)

While many first-time buyers focus on saving for the down payment, there are other costs to consider when purchasing a home. Closing costs, inspection fees, and moving expenses can add up quickly. Make a resolution to save consistently for these costs throughout the year. Even if you’re starting with a smaller down payment, consider looking into first-time homebuyer programs or government-backed loans that can help with down payment requirements.

4. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Early

One of the most important steps in the home buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval letter shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer and gives you a clear picture of how much you can afford to borrow. This is the time to meet with a mortgage lender, review your financials, and get pre-approved for a loan. Having this step done early will help you act quickly when you find your dream home, giving you a competitive edge in today’s market.

5. Start Researching Neighbourhoods Now

When it comes to buying your first home, location is just as important as the property itself. In the new year, make it a point to research different neighbourhoods that match your lifestyle and budget. Consider factors such as commute time, schools, walkability, crime rates, and future development. Researching neighbourhoods early will help you identify the areas that best suit your needs and give you a better understanding of where you’d like to live.

Bonus Resolution: Stay Informed and Work with an Expert

The home buying process can be complex, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. Stay informed by reading blogs, attending webinars, and speaking with a trusted real estate agent who can guide you through every step. Having an experienced professional by your side can make a world of difference, from navigating contracts to negotiating a fair price.

Conclusion

As you make resolutions for the new year, consider how these homebuyer goals can help you achieve your dream of homeownership. By focusing on your credit, budgeting, saving for a down payment, getting pre-approved early, and researching neighbourhoods, you’ll be well on your way to finding your perfect home in 2025. The earlier you start preparing, the easier it will be to make this year the one you finally become a homeowner.

As the crisp fall air settles in, it’s a good time to start preparing your home for the cold winter months ahead. Proactive maintenance not only helps prevent costly repairs but also ensures your home remains cozy and energy-efficient throughout the season. Here’s a guide to key fall home maintenance tasks to complete before winter hits:

1. Clean and Inspect Gutters

Falling leaves can clog your gutters, leading to water damage or ice dams when the temperature drops. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are free from debris to allow proper drainage. While you’re up there, check for any loose or damaged sections that might need repair before the first snowfall.

2. Check Your Roof

Your roof is your first line of defense against winter weather. Inspect it for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, hiring a professional is a wise investment. Catching small problems now can prevent major headaches once snow and ice arrive.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase heating costs. Check for gaps or leaks around the edges and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. A well-sealed home will keep the warmth inside and the cold outside, saving you money on energy bills and keeping your home more comfortable.

4. Service Your Heating System

Before you crank up the heat, it’s essential to have your furnace or heating system serviced. Replace the air filters, check the thermostat, and make sure everything is running efficiently. If you rely on a fireplace or wood stove, now is the time to have your chimney cleaned and inspected to ensure safe operation.

5. Winterize Your Plumbing

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Don’t forget to shut off and drain exterior faucets and hoses to prevent them from freezing and bursting during winter.

6. Check Your Insulation

Good insulation is crucial for keeping your home warm in the winter. Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and crawl spaces. Adding insulation where needed can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As we rely more on heating during the winter, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure increases. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning properly. Replace the batteries if needed.

8. Trim Trees and Prepare the Yard

Heavy snow and ice can cause tree branches to break, which can be dangerous for your home and family. Trim any branches that are too close to your house, and remove dead or weak limbs. Also, rake the leaves, clean out flower beds, and store patio furniture to protect it from winter weather.

9. Check Your Sump Pump

If your home has a sump pump, now is the time to check it to ensure it’s functioning properly. A working sump pump can help prevent basement flooding, especially with increased rainfall during fall and snowmelt in early spring.

10. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Many ceiling fans have a reverse setting, which helps circulate warm air during the winter months. By running your fans in a clockwise direction, you push warm air down, helping your heating system work more efficiently.

Taking the time to tackle these fall maintenance tasks will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is ready for whatever winter throws at it. If you’re unsure about any of these tasks or need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted contractor. A little effort now can save you from significant problems down the road. Stay warm and safe this winter!

When selling your home in Winnipeg, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the closing costs involved. Many sellers focus on the sale price and the excitement of moving forward, but knowing the financial responsibilities at closing can help you avoid any surprises.

Below is a breakdown of the common closing costs for sellers in Winnipeg, so you can budget effectively and prepare for a smooth transaction.

1. Real Estate Commission

The biggest cost for most sellers is the real estate commission, which is typically paid to both the listing and buyer's agents. In Winnipeg, commission rates generally range between 4% and 6% of the final sale price. This percentage is usually split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents, making it a necessary expense in exchange for professional guidance and marketing expertise.

Having an experienced agent helps to ensure your home sells quickly and for the best price, making this cost an investment in a smooth and profitable transaction.

2. Legal Fees

When selling a property, you’ll need to hire a real estate lawyer to handle the legal aspects of the sale. They will draft the necessary documents, manage the title transfer, and ensure that everything is in compliance with provincial regulations. Legal fees in Winnipeg typically range from $900 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of the sale.

3. Mortgage Discharge Fees

If you still have a mortgage on the property, you’ll need to discharge it when you sell your home. This involves paying off the remaining balance of your mortgage and any applicable fees. Mortgage discharge fees usually fall between $250 to $500. However, if you are discharging your mortgage early, you may also face penalties, especially if you have a fixed-term mortgage.

It's important to check with your lender to understand any potential penalties for paying off your mortgage before the end of the term.

4. Title Insurance (Optional)

Though not always required, some sellers choose to purchase title insurance. Title insurance protects both the seller and the buyer from potential disputes over property ownership that may arise after the sale. The cost for title insurance typically ranges from $200 to $400.

5. Property Taxes

Property taxes in Winnipeg are typically paid in advance for the year, and as a seller, you’ll need to settle any unpaid taxes up to the closing date. If you’ve overpaid your taxes, you may receive a credit back from the buyer, but if you’re behind, those amounts will be deducted from your sale proceeds.

It’s important to factor this into your closing costs to ensure there are no surprises when it’s time to settle the balance.

6. Home Preparation and Repairs (Optional)

While not a mandatory closing cost, many sellers choose to invest in minor home repairs, deep cleaning, or even staging services to make their home more appealing to potential buyers. These costs can vary widely, depending on the condition of your home and the level of preparation you opt for. However, investing in the right improvements can often lead to a quicker sale and potentially higher offers.

7. Condo or HOA Fees (If Applicable)

If your property is a condo or is governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), you’ll need to ensure all outstanding fees are paid up to date. You may also need to pay a fee to obtain any status certificates or documentation required for the sale. These costs vary, so it’s important to check with your condo board or HOA to confirm the exact amounts.

8. Adjustments

In some cases, sellers may need to make adjustments for pre-paid or unpaid expenses such as utilities, property taxes, or condo fees. These adjustments are usually prorated, meaning the buyer will compensate you for any pre-paid amounts after the closing date, or you’ll reimburse the buyer for any unpaid portions.

Conclusion: Budgeting for Closing Costs

When selling your home in Winnipeg, it’s wise to set aside around 5-7% of the sale price for closing costs. By understanding the expenses involved—such as real estate commissions, legal fees, and mortgage discharge fees—you can be better prepared to navigate the closing process smoothly.

With a well-prepared budget and the guidance of a skilled real estate agent, you’ll be ready to move forward with confidence, ensuring a successful home sale.