Six September Home Tips: Getting Saskatchewan Homes Fall & Winter Ready

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 02.09.2025

As summer winds down in Saskatchewan, September is the perfect month to start preparing your home for the colder months ahead. A little bit of preventative maintenance now can save you stress, money, and unexpected repairs when the snow flies. Whether you’re planning to sell or simply want to keep your home in top shape, here are the key September projects to focus on.

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1. Check and Clean Your Eavestroughs

Falling leaves and prairie winds mean gutters fill up fast. Make sure they’re clear so water can drain properly. Poor drainage often leads to foundation issues or icy walkways later in the season.

Pro Tip: Extend downspouts at least 4–6 feet away from your foundation to avoid water pooling.

2. Inspect Your Roof

Our Saskatchewan winters can be tough on shingles. September is a great time to look for loose, curling, or missing shingles before heavy snow and ice arrive. Catching small issues now helps prevent leaks and costly repairs.

3. Furnace and Fireplace Maintenance

• Furnace: Book a professional cleaning and change the filter. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently and keeps heating bills down.

• Fireplace/Chimney: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned. Cozy fires are much more enjoyable when you know they’re safe.

4. Yard & Garden Clean-Up

• Aerate and fertilize the lawn for stronger growth come spring.

• Trim trees and shrubs: Saskatchewan’s winter winds can cause branches to break and damage siding or roofs.

• Winterize garden tools and hoses: drain, clean, and store them before freezing temps set in.

5. Check Windows and Doors

Drafts can make your home uncomfortable and drive up heating costs. Recaulking, weatherstripping, or upgrading to energy-efficient windows pays off both in comfort and resale value.

6. Safety Check

Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure fire extinguishers are up to date. It’s a simple step that provides peace of mind for the months when we spend more time indoors.

Why This Matters for Sellers
Homes that show well-maintained systems and seasonal upkeep give buyers confidence. Fall buyers in Saskatchewan want move-in ready homes that won’t surprise them with furnace issues, leaks, or energy inefficiency. A weekend of prep now can make your home stand out in the market.

September is the perfect time to tackle these projects while the weather is still mild. If you’re considering selling this fall or winter, a seasonal home check-up can give you a competitive edge.

Reach out if you’d like a personalized list of improvements that will add the most value to your home in today’s Saskatchewan market!

5 Saskatchewan Summer Home Upgrades

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 08.07.2025

Summer Home Improvements in Saskatchewan: Boost Value & Enjoyment All Season Long

Summer in Saskatchewan is short but sweet, but it’s the perfect time for homeowners to tackle home improvement projects that not only enhance comfort but also increase resale value. Whether you're thinking of selling or simply want to enjoy your space more, here are some smart summer upgrades that make a difference in our prairie climate.

1. Refresh Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, especially in Saskatchewan's active summer real estate market.

• Update exterior paint or siding: A fresh coat of paint on trim, doors, or faded siding can instantly modernize your home.

• Landscape with local plants: Choose drought-resistant perennials and native shrubs that thrive in Saskatchewan’s dry conditions. Add mulch to keep soil cool and conserve water.

• Upgrade your front entry: A new front door, stylish house numbers, or updated lighting can give your home a polished look.

2. Build or Improve Outdoor Living Spaces

Saskatchewanians love their summers! Make the most of it with outdoor spaces that extend your living area.

• Add a deck or patio: These are high-ROI additions that offer a great place to host BBQs or unwind on warm evenings.

• Install a firepit: A built-in or portable firepit adds charm and makes your yard usable even after the sun sets.

• Privacy features: Trellises, fencing, or fast-growing hedges add comfort and appeal.

3. Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Our hot summers and cold winters mean that energy-efficient features are attractive year-round.

• Seal and insulate: Check your windows, doors, and attic insulation. Summer is a great time to upgrade for better winter performance.

• Install a smart thermostat: Buyers appreciate tech-savvy homes, and smart thermostats can help manage summer cooling costs.

• Replace old windows: If your windows are drafty or cracked, consider energy-efficient replacements with UV protection.

4. Garage and Driveway Improvements

Many Saskatchewan homes feature detached or front-facing garages, don’t overlook them!

• Repair or sealcoat your driveway: Our freeze-thaw cycles can be hard on concrete and asphalt. A fresh surface adds visual appeal.

• Organize the garage: Wall storage, workbenches, or even epoxy flooring can turn your garage into a functional showpiece.

5. Maintenance Musts

Buyers in Saskatchewan are savvy, they look for homes that have been well cared for.

• Clean eavestroughs and check drainage: Prevent water pooling around your foundation.

• Service your A/C: If you have central air, make sure it’s running efficiently.

• Stain fences and decks: Extend their lifespan and protect them from the elements.

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Thinking of Selling This Summer?
If you're considering listing your home, these improvements can help your property stand out in a competitive market. Saskatchewan buyers are looking for homes that are move-in ready and well maintained — summer is your chance to showcase your home at its best.

10 Home Selling Trends in Saskatchewan for 2025

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.01.2025

Top 2025 Trends for Selling a Home in Saskatchewan

Selling a home in Saskatchewan in 2025 comes with its unique dynamics, influenced by the province’s lifestyle, economy, and real estate trends. Here are the top trends that home sellers should keep in mind to succeed in Saskatchewan’s market:

1. Rural Properties in Demand

The shift towards remote work continues to drive interest in Saskatchewan’s rural and small-town properties. Affordable housing and access to outdoor recreation make these areas appealing. If you’re selling a home outside major cities, emphasize acreage, privacy, and natural surroundings.

2. Energy Efficiency Sells

With cold winters and rising utility costs, energy-efficient homes are a big draw in Saskatchewan. Sellers should highlight features like upgraded insulation, triple-pane windows, energy-efficient furnaces, and solar panels. These upgrades not only appeal to buyers but also add value to your home.

3. Focus on Outdoor Spaces

Saskatchewan buyers value outdoor living areas, especially those that maximize the province’s sunny summers. Decks, patios, fire pits, and well-maintained yards can significantly enhance a home’s appeal. Highlight these features in your listings and staging.

4. Highlight Community and Accessibility

Whether it’s proximity to good schools in Saskatoon, Regina’s vibrant downtown, or access to hiking and fishing spots, buyers care about what’s nearby. Tailor your marketing to showcase the community benefits your property offers.

5. Competitive Pricing in a Steady Market

Saskatchewan’s real estate market tends to be more stable than other provinces, but buyers are still price-sensitive. Collaborate with a knowledgeable local agent to set a realistic and competitive price. Overpricing can deter interest, especially in a balanced market.

6. Incorporate Prairie Lifestyle Appeal

Buyers are drawn to homes that reflect Saskatchewan’s unique charm. Farmhouse-style interiors, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and open layouts that bring in natural light resonate with local buyers. Staging your home to reflect the prairie lifestyle can set it apart.

7. Virtual Tours for Out-of-Province Buyers

Saskatchewan continues to attract out-of-province buyers looking for affordability and a slower pace of life. Invest in virtual tours, high-quality photos, and 3D walkthroughs to capture the attention of these remote buyers.

8. Adaptability in Design

Post-pandemic preferences mean buyers want homes with flexible spaces. Whether it’s a home office, a fitness room, or a guest suite, show how your home can adapt to various needs.

9. Seasonal Timing Matters

Saskatchewan’s harsh winters can influence buying activity. Spring and early summer are prime times to list, as buyers are more active when the weather is favorable. Keep this in mind when planning your sale.

10. Work with a Local Expert

The Saskatchewan real estate market has its quirks. Partnering with an experienced local agent who understands provincial trends and buyer preferences is key to getting the best results.

Selling a home in Saskatchewan in 2025 requires a mix of strategy, timing, and local knowledge. By aligning with these trends, you’ll be well-positioned to attract buyers and close a successful sale.

What do you think will be the biggest trend in Saskatchewan’s real estate market this year? Let us know in the comments!

7 Reasons Why You Should Take Advantage of Spring Selling Season

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.04.2023

The spring selling season is often the busiest and most frantic period of real estate activity in the calendar year. There are many reasons for this. If you are hesitant about selling your home soon, check out why this is the perfect to take the plunge and do it!

1. The Weather Is Ideal

One of the biggest advantages to selling during the spring is the beautiful weather. The sun shines brighter, and the temperatures are warmer, creating the ideal environment for potential buyers to spend time out and about looking at homes. During the spring, people come out of hibernation due to longer days and improved moods. Plus, once they find the perfect home, the conditions are ideal for moving and getting settled into their new space. When you list a home in the winter, you risk having to postpone open houses or individual showings if harsh weather strikes.

2. You Maximize Curb Appeal

Speaking of ideal weather, if you have stunning landscaping, it's hard to show it off when there's snow on the ground and flowers aren't in bloom. Listing a home in the spring means you can wow buyers with curb appeal and perhaps command a higher asking price. The springtime allows you to show your home at its best.

3. Home Renovating Is Easier

The nicer weather is perfect for making those repairs or renovations that will increase your home’s value. Contractors, tradesman, and other businesses are in full swing, meaning there is options for you to use. Use this time and invest to make your home standout!

4. Higher Demand From Buyers

In the spring demand is much higher due to many factors. Most notably, many families are eager to get into their new space before the start of the school year in September. For many families, the ideal time to move is the summer; therefore, to make that happen, they begin looking for a property in the spring. Most homes are larger family homes, and families with kids are the largest demographic in real estate.

5. Houses Sell Faster

With more active buyers, spring also means homes are likely to sell faster, especially if they are priced correctly the first time listed. According to market trends, most people who sell their home in May or June can expect to sell it 18 days faster than the other months of the year. The faster you can get your house off your hands, the less mortgage payments you’ll be responsible for and the sooner you can move into your next space.

6. Competitive Pricing Possibilities

The increase in demand and how fast properties are moving means prices can be a bit higher. The possibility of multiple offers and bidding wars is greater in the spring due to the number of buyers in the market. This is not a guarantee though and is dependent on many factors.

7. More Inventory for You

Lastly, the springtime is great to go house hunting. You’re selling your home, and probably need another one. Many people are listing homes due to the reasons above, meaning there is plenty of options for you to look at. Your dream home could be right around the corner!

If you are ready to list your home during the Spring selling rush, check out my “Sell Your Home” series on Instagram (@saskatoonrealty). It will give you quick and easy tips to prepare yourself, and your home, for the selling journey!

Top 5 Garden Tips To Improve Your Home’s Showing Value

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.04.2022

With Spring and Summer right around the corner, let's explore how a well-spruced and aesthetically pleasing garden enhances the value of your property, especially if you plan to sell it anytime soon.

1. De-clutter & Maintain: Just like the interiors of your house, your garden also must be de-cluttered and maintained. Winter is harsh on your gardens, especially in Saskatchewan. Harsh winters can affect the fences and trellis along with large shrubs and trees. Once the winter ends, make sure you repair the damaged structures, clean fallen leaves, and remove other debris to prepare your garden for the beautiful spring and summer months.

2. Make It Colourful: Humans are genetically predisposed to colours and therefore it plays a big role in triggering emotions in us. To make your garden attractive and a great place to relax and unwind, opt for colorful flowers.

3. Add Focus Points: When someone walks into your garden, what is the first thing they see? The answer to this question can determine the chances of selling your house. For example, if a beautiful fountain is the focus area of your garden, it is sure to boost your property value and the chances for it to sell. That's why it's important to have a clear focus area that is stunning and attractive for even passers-by.

4. Paint The Fence: This is a cheap way to spruce up your garden and make it more inviting for you and your guests. The best part is you can do it by yourself too!

5. Add Yard Furniture: When you add some garden furniture, it is sure to spruce up the entire place and make it more inviting to your guests. It also shows that the area can also double-up as a cozy place for you to relax and read a book or maybe even listen to some music at the end of a long day.

BONUS: Don’t have a garden, no worries: The same principles apply to plants that are displayed outside in your yard or in your house! Plants make a home feel inviting and provide a warm aesthetic to any area. https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/sellersadvice/item/1038117-5-ways-a-home-garden-can-boost-the-aesthetic-value-of-your-house?rtmpage=null

10 Spring Maintenance Tips When Listing Your Home

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.03.2022

1. Get Your Ducts Cleaned – It will help to provide cleaner breathing for in the home by removing all old materials in the air that have built up over the winter.
2. Service The Furnace and Central Air – Annual services are recommended for the most effective mechanical maintenance to prolong each respective lifespan.
3. Change Furnace Filters – Depending on the amount of people and pets in your home, you will want to change your furnace filter every 90 days give or take.
4. Wipe Down All Surfaces – Dust settles in the most unwelcome places year-round but it is particularly important to remove it when you have the ducts cleaned.
5. Wipe Down Vents – Often overlooked, bathroom vents and kitchen vents can get covered by thick layers of dust due to their excessive use which is not a good look!
6. Change Fire Detector Batteries – Put new batteries in and test them before reinstalling, this is also an annual recommendation.
7. Eavestrough Clearing – You always want water to flow away from your house which means allowing it easy access through the eavestrough, don’t forget to lower those down troughs!
8. Aerate & Overseed Lawn – Although your house may sell prior to the lush green grass coming through, you will want to prepare for a beautiful lawn in the event the house does not sell for a few months (disregard for condos).
9. Wash Windows – The one maintenance item that will improve both the interior and exterior simultaneously which is highly effective in improving showing quality.
10. Power Wash – Taking the time to power wash your home exterior and driveway will provide an outstanding yet subtle elevation to your curb appeal.

Note that your home may require less or more home maintenance items. Every home is unique and an in-person Home Listing Consult is recommended. Call or text Tanya at 306-380-7325 for your complimentary consult to help sell your home for top dollar.

5 Minor Items, With Major Impact, That Home Sellers Forget To Replace

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.02.2022

1. Furnace Filter – Change your furnace filter and leave the package nearby in clear view of the furnace. You will want to book an appointment with your tenant for this if the home is a rental.
2. Weather Stripping – Especially if you live in a location where you experience all four seasons, you will want to ensure you have fresh weather stripping on all exterior doors of the property.
3. Caulking – Take a close look at the caulking throughout your home, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. Often times it is deteriorated or discolored and is a very inexpensive replacement cost, usually around $5, and fresh white caulking is outstanding for improving showing quality.
4. Smoke Detectors – While this is not immediately impactful during showings, these will be tested during a home inspection so make sure they are functional, and you have the appropriate amount for the size of your home.
5. Light Bulbs – Even if the room is only used for storage, a missing light bulb in any space will disrupt the flow of a showing and trigger a flag in the mind of potential buyers. Although the flag may be small, considering the cost of light bulbs, it is a worthy replacement.

What To Expect When Selling Your Home In 2022

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.01.2022

1. A Seller’s Market – Unless another global event alters the real estate market, like that of the pandemic, you will most likely experience Seller’s Market conditions in 2022. It is crucial that you work with a REALTOR® to capitalize on these conditions by following a sales strategy that is unique to your home type and location.
2. Numerous Showings – Depending on your sales strategy, you may have to vacate your house for the entire first day of it being on the market for back-to-back showings. You might also have showings before it hits the market or numerous showings throughout the first week of it being on the market before you get an offer. Be flexible with your schedule for this reason.
3. Pandemic Precautions – Hundreds of thousands of homes have been safely sold since the pandemic began. Talk to your REALTOR® about any specific precautions you would like taken during showings, however the most common include masks, sanitize, minimum attendees, and lights to be left on.
4. Aggressive Offers – Prior to the pandemic, offers coming through over asking price were almost impossible short of a “Presentation of Offers” scenario but in 2021 offers at or over asking price became the norm. Of course, this is an expectation that is entirely dependent on your sales strategy which includes pricing according to market data.
5. Competing Offers – If your sales strategy was successful, you will end of receiving more than one offer on the first day. You can discuss the pros and cons of each offer with your REALTOR® to ensure you are cognizant of any terms that might diminish the value of the offer. Remember that the highest price does not always equate to the best offer.
6. Unqualified Offers – Sometimes during the hustle and bustle of buying a house, buyer’s overlook due diligence such as working with an experienced mortgage broker and/or REALTOR® so make sure your REALTOR® is screening for qualified buyers. An unqualified buyer can waste weeks of valuable market time and effectively lose several thousand dollars in would-be equity.

Call or text Tanya LaRose at 306-380-REAL(7325) to start your home selling process now for 2022.

Why Saskatoon? 5 Reasons Saskatoon Real Estate is an Excellent Investment – In A Nutshell. (Part 1)

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 01.09.2021

1. POST-SECONDARY – Saskatoon attracts students from all over Canada and further. From the University of Saskatchewan to the Saskatchewan Polytechnic to the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, many post-secondary options are available which produces a high demand for student housing. Multi-unit developments, suited homes, and homes with multiple bedrooms are in constant motion in on the Saskatchewan MLS® making it easy for investors to capitalize on this demographic.
2. CURRENT ATTRACTIONS – Did you know some of the artifacts found at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park are older than the pyramids? Saskatoon truly has some gems that are unique all on their own. Search the list created by the team at Tourism Saskatoon and you will be impressed: https://www.tourismsaskatoon.com/things-to-do/
3. UPCOMING ATTRACTIONS – Between a state-of-the-art library and a $12.9 million downtown festival venue, Saskatoon is coming out of its shell in a big way. It is no surprise that Saskatoon’s average population increase has been consistent at 2% annually. Read more about some planning here: https://saskatoon.ctvnews.ca/saskatoon-city-councillors-to-mull-12-9-million-downtown-festival-site-1.5304032
4. FESTIVAL CITY – Let the good times roll as Saskatoonians thrive on festivals and celebrations that take the city by storm almost every month of the year in Saskatoon. The most concentrated number of festivals take place during the summer including RibFest, Food Truck Wars, YXE Beer Wars, Fringe Festival, Jazz Festival, Taste of Saskatchewan and so much more! Look at the list, although many are continuously added on a regular basis, and choose your favourite: https://www.todocanada.ca/festivals-in-saskatoon/
5. REAL ESTATE REBATES – The City of Saskatoon offers numerous rebates to home-owners and home builders. Many of them are incentives for continued growth, and geared toward the new development sector, however if that is an option for you as an investor, the value tied into these rebates are worth taking advantage of. The details of these programs can be viewed here: https://www.saskatoon.ca/business-development/land-development/rebate-program

 

How To Sell Your House & Make Top Dollar In A Seller’s Market

Tanya LaRose 0 comments 31.03.2021

Contact A REALTOR® - Contact not just any REALTOR® but a REALTOR® you have intentionally chosen. It is the great thing about the real estate industry - you can pick your home team (e.g. mortgage broker, home inspector, etc.). Do your research to see who will best fit with your personality, needs, wants, and client-care expectations. How do they give back to the community? Questions like these can help you if you are interviewing many potential REALTORS®. Just remember to hire only one so that you do not sabotage your home buying process. 

Prepare Your Product – Just as you would organize and adjust a rack of clothes to sell in a clothing store, you should do the same with your house to the same scale. Buying a basic functioning rack, arranging the clothes in an orderly manner, and possibly even color coordinating is guaranteed to attract more buyers. In the same way, if you need to update a vanity, touchup paint, and purge "stuff" from your house, it will help it to attract more buyers. It is important to strategize preparations because buying a gold plated rack to sell $10 shirts will not make the shirts sell for $80, which then minimizes profit. In other words, your can over-renovate. Most importantly, remember nobody will buy a $100 jacket if they can get the exact same jacket for $50 elsewhere - it is called "Market Value" and is applicable in real estate as well. Being conscious of marketing strategies like these, and implementing them, will ensure you get top dollar for your home. 

Accommodate Showing Requests – Often if there is a tenant, a homeowner may have difficulties approving showing requests. However, in a Seller’s Market it may be worth your while to list it for sale vacant due to the low supply, high-demand, and quick possessions being common factors. Alternatively, if your property has been listed properly, you could be inundated with a few dozen showing requests in a matter of days. Although it can seem daunting to have to constantly be leaving your house, you can rest assure that you are taking every step to ensure it gets the most exposure resulting in a top dollar offer. You can also rest assure that organized real estate abides by local and provincial safety regulations which are enforced by REALTORS®.

Presentation of Offers – While it is a great option if your property has the highest buyer demographic with the lowest supply, it can also drive buyers away. You can always drive away a pool of buyers by forcing timelines upon them. You are also limiting yourself to the pool of buyers at any given time. Whereas if you can capitalize on an entire season, like a busy spring season, one buyer might offer $40,000 above another buyer but several weeks apart. It also confuses buyers sometimes when it is listed low for the Presentation of Offers and it does not sell, then the price is raised which deters more buyers. Often times, a good old fashion market value listing is the most successful option. Your trusted REALTOR® can advise you on strategies like this, and more, to decide on what will be most successful for your unique property. 

If you would like to learn more about capitalizing on the Seller’s Market (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/real-estate-homes-hot-market-1.5951774), call or text Tanya LaRose at 306-380-7325.