The Art of Downsizing: Making the Transition with Magnolia Group Realty

Downsizing is a major life decision that comes with a mix of emotions, practical considerations, and opportunities. Whether you’re an empty nester, looking to simplify your lifestyle, or seeking a home that better aligns with your current needs, the process of downsizing can be both liberating and overwhelming. At Magnolia Group Realty, we specialize in helping clients navigate this transition with ease, expertise, and care.

Recognizing the Right Time to Downsize

The first step in downsizing is determining whether now is the right time for you. Here are some signs that suggest it might be time to make a move:

• Maintenance is Overwhelming: If you find yourself spending too much time, energy, or money on home maintenance, a smaller home or a condo with included maintenance might be a better fit.

• Unused Spaces: If you have multiple rooms that rarely get used, it may be a sign that your home is too large for your current lifestyle.

• Financial Considerations: A large home often comes with large expenses. Downsizing can free up funds for travel, investments, or other lifestyle goals.

• Accessibility Needs: If stairs, long hallways, or large spaces are becoming a challenge, moving to a more accessible home can greatly improve your quality of life.

• Lifestyle Changes: If your current home no longer supports your lifestyle—whether that means too much space, too much upkeep, or not enough community engagement—it may be time to consider a new living arrangement.

Choosing the Right REALTORS®

Downsizing is a specialized process that requires a REALTOR® with experience in both selling and purchasing homes that meet your evolving needs. When choosing your real estate professional, look for:

• Expertise in Downsizing: A team that understands the unique challenges and opportunities of downsizing will help make the process smoother.

• Market Knowledge: REALTORS® with a deep understanding of the local market can help you maximize your sale price and find the perfect new home.

• Comprehensive Services: A real estate team that offers additional support, such as mortgage services and financial planning, can make the process even easier.

• A Personalized Approach: Downsizing is personal. You want a REALTOR® who listens to your needs and helps you make the best decision for your future.

Magnolia Group Realty specializes in helping homeowners transition to the next stage of their lives with ease, confidence, and success.

Preparing Your Home for Listing

Selling a long-time home can be an emotional process, but with the right preparation, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to get your home ready for sale:

• Declutter & Organize: Downsizing means making tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go. Focus on keeping items that add value to your new lifestyle.

• Repairs & Upgrades: Minor repairs, fresh paint, and modern updates can go a long way in making your home more appealing to buyers.

• Professional Staging: A well-staged home can sell faster and at a higher price. Our team can connect you with professional stagers who will highlight your home’s best features.

• Setting the Right Price: Pricing your home correctly is key to attracting serious buyers. We provide comprehensive market analysis to help you set the best price for a successful sale.

Selecting Your New Home

Once your home is listed and selling is underway, it’s time to focus on finding your next perfect space. Here are key factors to consider:

• Prioritize Your Needs: Identify what’s most important in your new home—location, amenities, accessibility, and size.

• Location Matters: Whether you’re looking for a walkable neighborhood, a retirement community, or a peaceful rural setting, the right location is key to enjoying your next chapter.

• Future-Proofing: Look for features that will accommodate your needs both now and in the future—single-level living, low maintenance, and community amenities can all be great considerations.

• Condo vs. Freehold: Condominiums offer maintenance-free living, while smaller freehold properties provide more autonomy. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each based on your lifestyle.

How Magnolia Group Realty Makes Downsizing Easy

At Magnolia Group Realty, we understand that downsizing isn’t just about moving—it’s about transitioning into a home that better suits your evolving lifestyle. We take pride in guiding our clients through every step of the process with expertise, care, and a personalized approach. From listing your home and securing the best possible sale price to helping you find a new property that fits your needs, we’re here to make your downsizing journey seamless and stress-free.

Let’s make your downsizing transition as smooth as possible. Follow us on social media for more expert tips and real estate insights: @mymagnoliagroup and @mymagnolialuxurycollection.

Navigating the real estate market can be complex, but partnering with a team that integrates both real estate expertise and mortgage services simplifies the journey. Here's why working with a team like Magnolia Group Realty is beneficial:​

• Seamless Communication: Having REALTORS® and mortgage agents under one roof ensures that all aspects of your home purchase are coordinated efficiently.​

• Time Efficiency: Direct access to mortgage services means faster pre-approvals and a streamlined buying process.​

• Tailored Financial Solutions: Our in-house mortgage professionals understand your unique needs, offering personalized financing options.​

• Consistent Support: From house hunting to securing financing, our integrated team provides continuous guidance, ensuring a cohesive experience.​

At Magnolia Group Realty, we pride ourselves on offering a holistic approach to home buying, ensuring that our clients receive comprehensive support every step of the way.​

Stay connected with us for more real estate and mortgage insights: @mymagnoliagroup

Waterloo Region is rapidly becoming a hub for luxury condominium living, offering a blend of modern design, upscale amenities, and prime locations. For those seeking an opulent lifestyle, here are some of the top luxury condos in the area:​

Westmount Grand

• Location: 223 Erb Street West, Waterloo
  Amenities: Fitness centre, rooftop terrace, party room​

• Unit Details: Units typically feature 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, ranging from approximately 1,167 to 1,444 sq. ft.​

• Average Price Range: Units have been listed around $399,900 to $750,000. ​

Circa 1877

• Location: 181 King Street South, Waterloo​

• Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness centre, co-working space

• Unit Details: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom units with sizes ranging from approximately 600 to 1,200 sq. ft.​

• Average Price Range: Prices typically range from $500,000 to $800,000.​

One28 King Street North

• Location: 128 King Street North, Waterloo​

• Amenities: Fitness centre, rooftop terrace, party room​

• Unit Details: Suites range from 536 to 959 sq. ft., offering 1 to 2 bedrooms.

• Average Price Range: Units are priced between $500,000 and $700,000. ​

Investing in a luxury condominium in Waterloo Region not only provides a lavish living space but also places you in the heart of a vibrant community with access to top-tier amenities.​

For more insights into luxury living in Waterloo Region, follow us on social media: @mymagnolialuxurycollection

REM Editorial Team | Mar 25, 2025 

Forget fancy tech gadgets or ultra-modern interiors—what Canadians really want in their dream homes in 2025 is simple: a great backyard.

According to Wahi’s 2025 What Homeseekers Want survey, conducted with Angus Reid, 81 per cent of Canadians say a backyard is “important” or “very important” if they were looking for a new home today.

But beyond Canadians’ love affair with outdoor space, the findings reveal deeper shifts in housing preferences, influenced by affordability pressures and changing demographics.

The results “don’t just tell us about what kind of homes Canadians prefer, they also speak to underlying demographic trends and, in some cases, affordability issues,” says Wahi CEO Benjy Katchen.

Separate entrances gaining popularity in costly markets

One of the standout trends is the increasing demand for homes with separate entrances, particularly in Canada’s priciest provinces. A separate entrance is notably important to respondents in British Columbia (27 per cent) and Ontario (20 per cent).

“This suggests that Canadians in pricier housing markets are looking for homes with potential rental income to help offset the cost of ownership,” notes Katchen.

Single-family homes still reign supreme—but condos have appeal

Asked to choose what type of home they would prefer today, a solid majority (61 per cent) favour a single-family home, while roughly one-quarter (24 per cent) would opt for a condo or apartment. The remaining respondents were either unsure or looking at alternative housing types.

While both groups share a preference for renovated kitchens and bathrooms, their other priorities differ significantly.

Single-family buyers prioritize space and comfort

For Canadians set on single-family homes—be it detached, semi-detached, or townhomes—a backyard remains the number one must-have, chosen by 76 per cent of respondents. Coming in a strong second was a renovated kitchen or bathroom.

Other features single-family seekers prioritize are finished basements, along with parking garages and bungalow-style layouts.

Condo seekers focused on amenities and convenience

On the other hand, condo buyers and renters rank renovated kitchens and bathrooms even higher at 68 per cent. They also value practical amenities like parking garages and visitor parking. Unlike single-family home buyers, condo seekers placed importance on high-end appliances and scenic views.

Quiet and affordability shape Canadian preferences

Aside from home features, Canadians were asked what factors influenced their housing choices over the last two years. While affordability topped the list—40 per cent cited rising home prices or rental costs—the desire for quiet and more outdoor space are notable motivators.

Lifestyle, age and gender shape preferences too

Digging deeper, the survey also highlights how age, lifestyle, and gender shape housing wants:

• Households with children are far more likely to want mudrooms (51 per cent) and entertainment rooms (47 per cent).

• Men (48 per cent) are significantly more likely than women (30 per cent) to prioritize an entertainment room.

• Older Canadians highly value scenic views and bungalow-style homes, with 68 per cent of baby boomers and 52 per cent of Gen X respondents citing bungalows as an important feature. In contrast, just 28 per cent of millennials and 13 per cent of Gen Z expressed the same interest.

Looking for the perfect rental that checks all the boxes? This bright and spacious 3-bedroom (or 2-bedroom + den/office), 2 full bath unit offers a comfortable, stylish, and convenient living experience. Whether you’re a professional, a small family, or simply someone who values a great location, this home is designed to suit your lifestyle.

Key Features You'll Love:

✔️ Flexible Layout: Choose between a 3-bedroom setup or use one room as an office/den—perfect for remote work!
✔️ Open-Concept Living: A spacious living and dining area that’s great for both relaxation and entertaining.
✔️ Modern Kitchen: Well-appointed with ample storage and counter space.
✔️ In-Suite Laundry: Enjoy the ease of doing laundry at home—no more laundromat trips!
✔️ Two Full Bathrooms: No need to share—everyone gets their space!
✔️ Included Heating: Stay cozy all winter without worrying about extra costs.
✔️ Parking Options: One parking space included, with the option for a second spot at just $65/month.
✔️ Prime Location: Steps to shopping, transit (including LRT), parks, and more!
✔️ Common-Sense Landlord: Enjoy renting from a landlord who believes in fair and reasonable living arrangements.

Lease Details:

• Price: $2,900/month (heat included).

• Tenant Pays: Hydro (separately metered per unit) + portion of the water bill (based on number of occupants).

• Included: Heating & one parking space.

• Optional: Second parking space for $65/month.

📢 This fantastic rental won’t last long! Ready to see it for yourself? Schedule a viewing today and make this your next home!

https://yourmagnoliagroup.ca/67BLouisaStreet

Discover the Best Events in Waterloo Region This April!

Spring has sprung, and Waterloo Region is buzzing with events that celebrate everything from art and fashion to quirky traditions and charitable causes! Whether you’re looking to attend a thought-provoking cultural exhibition, run for a good cause, or witness the absolute joy of a llama parade (yes, you read that right), there’s something happening that’s sure to spark your interest.

This April, the region is hosting a fantastic lineup of concerts, festivals, fashion shows, charity runs, and offbeat experiences that will keep you entertained all month long. So grab your calendar and start planning, because you won’t want to miss out on these exciting local happenings!

Here’s a look at the top events you’ll want to check out in Waterloo Region this April. ⬇️

Art and Cultural Festivals:

Artistic Apparel Fashion Show and Sale
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm; Fashion Show starts at 7:00 pm
Location: St. George Banquet Hall, 665 King St N, Waterloo
Details: Experience the fusion of art and design as artisanal designers showcase their unique fashions. The event includes a three-course plated dinner, silent auction, a sneak peek at the Quilt of Belonging, and a VIP shopping experience with WEFTFest vendors.

Indigenous Histories & Resilience Exhibitions
Dates: Throughout April 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: City of Waterloo Museum, 550 King Street North, Waterloo
Details: Explore exhibitions that delve into the impacts of the Residential School system and the Sixties Scoop, amplifying Indigenous voices and resilience.

Running and Charity Events:

Run for Hope Marathon
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 8:00 am start
Location: Victoria Park, Kitchener
Details: Participate in a marathon to raise funds for local charities. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, and a 5K fun run.

Charity Bike Ride for Children's Health
Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025
Time: 9:00 am start
Location: Starting at Waterloo Public Square
Details: Join a community bike ride to support children's health initiatives in the region. Routes of varying lengths are available for all skill levels.

Fashion Shows:

Spring into Fashion Gala
Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
Time: 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Location: The Tannery Event Centre, 151 Charles St W, Kitchener
Details: A glamorous evening showcasing spring fashion collections from local designers, accompanied by live music and a gourmet dinner.

Eco-Friendly Fashion Fair
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Kitchener Market, 300 King St E, Kitchener
Details: Discover sustainable fashion brands and learn about eco-friendly clothing practices at this interactive fair.

Quirky and Off-the-Wall Events:

Annual Rubber Duck Race
Date: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location: Grand River, near Cambridge
Details: Adopt a rubber duck and watch as thousands race down the Grand River. Prizes awarded for the fastest ducks.

Kitchener-Waterloo Llama Parade
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Uptown Waterloo
Details: A whimsical parade featuring llamas dressed in creative costumes, accompanied by live music and local vendors.

Please note that event details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the official event websites or contact organizers for the most current information.

Unveiling Waterloo Region's Hidden Gems: Spas, Salons, Barbershops, Restaurants, and Cafés

Waterloo Region is a vibrant tapestry of culture, flavors, and relaxation spots. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie establishments that offer unique experiences, waiting to be discovered. Here's a curated list of eight lesser-known spas, hair salons, barbershops, restaurants, and cafés—including the charming Queen of Hearts Tea and Gift Shop—that embody the region's rich diversity.

Rejuvenate at These Under-the-Radar Spas

1. The Rock Spa (Kitchener, ON) - Specializes in Himalayan salt therapy for relaxation and wellness.
   Website: therockspa.ca

2. Total Skin & Body Spa (Waterloo, ON) - Offers facials, massages, and body treatments.
   Website: totalskinandbodyspa.com

3. The Waters Spa (Waterloo, ON) - Urban spa retreat with massages, facials, and more.
   Website: thewatersspa.com

4. Pino's Salon & Medispa (Kitchener, ON) - Combines salon services with advanced medispa treatments.
   Website: pinosalon.com

5. Lotus Spa & Wellness Centre (Cambridge, ON) - Offers holistic treatments and aromatherapy.
   Website: lotusspa.ca

6. Gina's Spa, Hair Studio & MediSpa (Waterloo, ON) - A full-service spa and salon experience.
   Website: ginasspa.com

7. The Beauty Collective (Kitchener, ON) - Specialized beauty services like lash extensions and microblading.
   Website: thebeautycollectivekw.com

8. Voila Institute (Kitchener, ON) - Offers professional hair, skin, and nail services.
   Website: voilainstitute.com

Stylish Transformations: Hidden Gem Hair Salons & Barbershops

1. Xcentric Hair Studio (Waterloo, ON) - Contemporary cuts and coloring.
   Website: xcentrichairstudio.com

2. Bogart's Hair Salon (Waterloo, ON) - Personalized consultations and expert styling.
   Website: bogartshair.com

3. Element Hair Studio (Waterloo, ON) - Modern haircuts, coloring, and styling.
   Website: elementhair.com

4. Elite Hair Studio (St. Jacobs, ON) - Specializing in balayage and creative cuts.
   Website: elitehairstudio.ca

5. Voila Salon (Kitchener-Waterloo, ON) - High-end hair services and treatments.
   Website: voilasalon.com

6. The Thirsty Barber (Kitchener, ON) - A unique speakeasy-style barbershop.
   Website: thirstybarber.com

7. Belmont Barber Shop (Kitchener, ON) - Classic cuts and straight razor shaves.
   Website: belmontbarbershop.com

8. Golden Scissors (Kitchener, ON) - A mix of salon and barbering services.
   Website: goldenscissors.ca

Savor the Flavors: Hidden Gem Restaurants

1. Arabesque Family Restaurant (Kitchener, ON) - Authentic Lebanese cuisine.
   Website: arabesquecafekw.com

2. Bhima's Warung (Waterloo, ON) - Southeast Asian fusion with bold flavors.
   Website: bhimaswarung.com

3. Meetpoint (Waterloo, ON) - Cozy Turkish eatery.
   Website: meetpoint.ca

4. Bao Sandwich Bar (Waterloo, ON) - Vietnamese & Taiwanese street food.
   Website: baosandwichbar.com

5. Public Kitchen & Bar (Kitchener, ON) - Globally inspired tapas.
   Website: publickitchen.ca

6. Naranj Blossom (Waterloo, ON) - Modern Middle Eastern flavors.
   Website: naranjblossom.com

7. Fork and Cork Grill (Kitchener, ON) - Contemporary Canadian cuisine.
   Website: forkandcorkgrill.com

8. The Lancaster Smokehouse (Kitchener, ON) - Southern-style BBQ.
   Website: lancsmokehouse.com

Cozy Corners: Lesser-Known Cafés

1. The Yeti Café (Kitchener, ON) - Quirky breakfast and coffee spot.
   Website: theyeticafe.com

2. Queen of Hearts Tea and Gift Shop (Kitchener, ON) - Charming tea shop with unique gifts.
   Website: queenofheartskitchener.com

3. Show & Tell Coffee (Kitchener, ON) - High-quality espresso drinks.
   Website: showandtellcoffee.com

4. Smile Tiger Coffee Roasters (Kitchener, ON) - Locally roasted specialty coffee.
   Website: smiletigercoffee.com

5. Seven Shores Community Café (Waterloo, ON) - Organic and locally sourced eats.
   Website: sevenshores.ca

6. Monigram Coffee Roasters (Cambridge, ON) - Small-batch artisanal coffee.
   Website: monigram.ca

7. Cafe Pyrus (Kitchener, ON) - Vegan-friendly coffeehouse.
   Website: cafepyrus.com

8. EcoCafe (St. Jacobs, ON) - Sustainable coffee and a cozy atmosphere.
   Website: ecocafestjacobs.com

Supporting local has never been more important—or stylish, delicious, and good for your skin! Canada is home to some of the best beauty, grocery, and clothing brands that are not only made here but also reflect our country’s commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your skincare routine, stock your pantry with homegrown flavors, or invest in ethically made fashion, we’ve got you covered. The best part? Every brand on this list is 100% Canadian-made, meaning your dollars support local businesses, jobs, and communities.

So, if you’re ready to shop local and discover brands that rival (or exceed!) big-name competitors, let’s dive into 30 must-know Canadian companies across beauty, groceries, and clothing—plus, exactly where to buy them! 🚀

🇨🇦 10 Canadian Beauty Brands (Made in Canada)

1. Cheekbone Beauty – Indigenous-owned, clean, and sustainable cosmetics

   • Buy at: cheekbonebeauty.com, Sephora Canada

2. Rocky Mountain Soap Company – Alberta-based, natural skincare & bath products

   • Buy at: rockymountainsoap.com, company stores

3. ATTITUDE – Montreal-based, eco-conscious skincare & haircare

   • Buy at: attitudeliving.com, Well.ca, Walmart

4. Sappho New Paradigm – Vegan, luxury cosmetics from Vancouver

   • Buy at: mysappho.com

5. Pure Anada – Affordable, organic makeup & skincare from Manitoba

   • Buy at: pureanada.ca, Well.ca

6. Énamour – Minimalist, plant-based skincare from Montreal

   • Buy at: enamour.co

7. Graydon Skincare – High-performance, botanical-based skincare

   • Buy at: graydonskincare.com, The Detox Market Canada

8. Consonant Skincare – Toronto-made, award-winning clean beauty

   • Buy at: consonantskincare.com

9. Wildcraft – Handmade, small-batch skincare from Toronto

   • Buy at: wildcraftcare.ca, Well.ca

10. Province Apothecary – Holistic skincare using Canadian botanicals

• Buy at: provinceapothecary.com, The Detox Market

🇨🇦 10 Canadian Grocery & Food Brands (Made in Canada)

1. Burnbrae Farms – Ontario-based, family-run egg producer

   • Buy at: Loblaws, Sobeys, Metro, Walmart

2. Maple Lodge Farms – Ontario-based, Canadian-raised poultry

   • Buy at: No Frills, Superstore, Costco

3. Neal Brothers Foods – Ontario-made healthy snacks, sauces, and condiments

   • Buy at: nealbrothersfoods.com, Loblaws, Whole Foods

4. Covered Bridge Potato Chips – New Brunswick-based, kettle-cooked chips

   • Buy at: coveredbridgechips.com, Sobeys, Loblaws

5. Green Beaver – Quebec-based, organic personal care & food products

   • Buy at: greenbeaver.com, Whole Foods, Well.ca

6. Nature’s Path – BC-based, organic cereals & granola

   • Buy at: naturespath.com, Loblaws, Walmart, Costco

7. St. Albert Cheese Co-op – 100% Canadian cheese from Ontario

   • Buy at: fromagestalbert.com, Quebec & Ontario grocery stores

8. Kicking Horse Coffee – BC-based, organic & fair-trade coffee

   • Buy at: kickinghorsecoffee.com, most grocery stores

9. Gogo Quinoa – Montreal-based, organic quinoa & plant-based foods

   • Buy at: gogoquinoa.com, Loblaws, Metro, Whole Foods

10. Righteous Gelato – Alberta-made, small-batch gelato with unique flavors

• Buy at: righteousgelato.com, Sobeys, Save-On-Foods, Whole Foods

🇨🇦 10 Canadian Clothing Brands (Made in Canada)

1. Kotn – Toronto-based, ethical, high-quality basics

   • Buy at: kotn.com, Toronto flagship store

2. Encircled – Sustainable, Canadian-made fashion for travel & everyday wear

   • Buy at: encircled.ca (online only)

3. Canada Goose – Luxury outerwear, made in Toronto & Winnipeg

   • Buy at: canadagoose.com, Canada Goose stores, Holt Renfrew

4. DUER – Performance denim & activewear from Vancouver

   • Buy at: duer.ca, Toronto & Vancouver stores

5. Tilley – Iconic hats & adventure apparel, made for Canadian weather

   • Buy at: tilley.com, MEC, Hudson’s Bay

6. Muttonhead – Toronto-made, unisex outdoor & streetwear

   • Buy at: muttonheadstore.com, Toronto storefront

7. Naked & Famous Denim – High-quality, raw denim, made in Montreal

   • Buy at: nakedandfamousdenim.com, Over the Rainbow (Toronto), boutique retailers

8. Anian – BC-based brand focused on recycled fabrics & sustainable fashion

   • Buy at: anianmfg.com, BC storefronts, online

9. Franc – Toronto-made, size-inclusive, ethically made basics

   • Buy at: wearfranc.com (online only)

10. OKAYOK – Fun, playful, sustainable clothing, made in Toronto

• Buy at: okayok.ca, small boutique shops in Toronto

There you go—30 proudly Canadian brands with where to buy them! Let us know where you like to shop to support Canadians 😊

Supporting local Canadian businesses is a fantastic way to strengthen our communities and economy. Here's an updated list of Canadian-owned and operated businesses across Ontario that offer household items, groceries, appliances, clothing, and more, along with their respective cities and brief histories:

Real Canadian Superstore
City: Various locations across Ontario, including Waterloo, Brampton, Ottawa, and Thunder Bay.
History: Launched in 1979 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Real Canadian Superstore is a chain of supermarkets owned by Loblaw Companies Limited. The stores offer a vast selection of products, including groceries, electronics, housewares, and clothing. The brand expanded into Ontario in the early 2000s to compete with other large retailers.

Home Hardware
City: Headquartered in St. Jacobs, ON, with locations across Ontario.
History: Established in 1964, Home Hardware is a 100% Canadian-owned cooperative. It was formed by a group of independent hardware retailers who wanted to compete with larger chains. Today, it offers a wide range of hardware supplies, building materials, and home furniture, with over 1,000 stores nationwide.

Farm Boy
City: Various locations across Ontario, including Kitchener, Ottawa, and Toronto.
History: Founded in 1981 in Cornwall, Ontario, Farm Boy began as a small produce store. Over the years, it has grown into a chain known for fresh groceries, local products, and a unique shopping experience.

Zehrs
City: Predominantly in Southwestern Ontario, including Waterloo, Kitchener, and Guelph.
History: Zehrs Markets was founded in 1950 by Emory Zehr in Kitchener, Ontario. It became part of Loblaw Companies Limited in the 1960s and continues to offer a wide range of groceries and household items under the Zehrs banner.

Broil King
City: Headquartered in Waterloo, ON.
History: Broil King is a brand under Onward Manufacturing Company, a family-owned business established in 1906. They design, engineer, and build high-quality gas grills, with manufacturing facilities in Waterloo, Ontario; Huntington, Indiana; and Dickson, Tennessee. Their commitment to quality and performance has made them a trusted name in outdoor cooking.

Elmira Pet Products
Location: Woolwich Township, ON
Description: Canada's largest private-label dry pet food manufacturer, providing quality nutrition for pets for over four decades.

Dare Foods Limited
Location: Cambridge, ON
Description: A family-owned company since 1889, Dare Foods offers a variety of cookies, crackers, and confectionery products, including popular brands like Bear Paws and Breton crackers.

Piller's Fine Foods
Location: Waterloo, ON
Description: Established in 1957, Piller's specializes in European-style deli meats and sausages, known for their quality and taste.

Krug Inc.
Location: Kitchener, ON
Description: Founded in 1880, Krug manufactures high-quality office and healthcare furniture, blending tradition with modern design.

Rossy
City: Various locations across Ontario, including Cornwall.
History: Founded in 1949 by Michael Rossy, Rossy is a regional chain of variety stores offering products such as grocery items, kitchenware, pet products, beauty and health items, gifts, children's toys, bedding, furniture, electronics, stationery, and clothing. The first Rossy store in Ontario was opened in 1981 in Cornwall.

By choosing to shop at these establishments, we not only receive quality products but also support our fellow Canadians. Let's keep our communities vibrant and thriving by supporting local businesses! 🍁

• Mar 12, 2025

The Bank of Canada lowers its benchmark interest rate to 2.75%

In the face of significant geopolitical tensions, the Bank of Canada announced today that it has lowered its policy interest rate by 25 basis points. This marks the seventh reduction since June of 2024.  

Below, we summarize the Bank’s commentary.

Canadian Economic Performance and Housing

• Canada’s economy grew by 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024 following upwardly revised growth of 2.2% in the third quarter

• This “growth path” is stronger than was expected when the Bank last reported in January 2025

• Past cuts to interest rates have boosted economic activity, particularly consumption and housing

• However, economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 will likely slow as the intensifying trade conflict weighs on sentiment and activity

• Recent surveys suggest a sharp drop in consumer confidence and a slowdown in business spending as companies postpone or cancel investments

• The negative impact of slowing domestic demand has been partially offset by a surge in exports in advance of tariffs being imposed

• The Canadian dollar is broadly unchanged against the US dollar but weaker against other currencies

Canadian Inflation and Outlook

• Inflation remains close to the Bank’s 2% target

• The temporary suspension of the GST/HST lowered some consumer prices, but January’s Consumer Price Index was “slightly firmer” than expected at 1.9%

• Inflation is expected to increase to about 2.5% in March with the end of the tax break

• The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation remain above 2%, mainly because of the persistence of shelter price inflation

• Short-term inflation expectations have risen in light of fears about the impact of tariffs on prices

Canadian Labour Market

• Employment growth strengthened in November through January and the unemployment rate declined to 6.6%

• In February, job growth stalled

• While past interest rate cuts have boosted demand for labour in recent months, there are warning signs that heightened trade tensions could disrupt the recovery in the jobs market

• Meanwhile, wage growth has shown signs of moderation

Global Economic Performance, Bond Yields and the Canadian Dollar

• After a period of solid growth, the US economy looks to have slowed in recent months, but US inflation remains slightly above target

• Economic growth in the euro zone was modest in late 2024

• China’s economy has posted strong gains, supported by government policies

• Equity prices have fallen and bond yields have eased on market expectations of weaker North American growth

• Oil prices have been volatile and are trading below the assumptions in the Bank’s January Monetary Policy Report 

Rationale for a rate cut

While the Bank offered that economic growth came in stronger than it expected, the pervasive uncertainty created by continuously changing US tariff threats is restraining consumers’ spending intentions and businesses’ plans to hire and invest. Against this background, and with inflation close to the 2% target, the Bank decided to reduce its policy rate by 25 basis points.

Outlook

The Bank notes that the Canadian economy entered 2025 “in a solid position,” with inflation close to its 2% target and “robust” GDP growth. However, heightened trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States will likely slow the pace of economic activity and increase inflationary pressures in Canada. The economic outlook continues to be subject to more-than-usual uncertainty because of the rapidly evolving policy landscape.

Final comments

The Bank noted that monetary policy “cannot offset the impacts of a trade war.” What monetary policy “can and must do” is ensure that higher prices do not lead to ongoing inflation.

The Bank said it will carefully assess: i) the timing and strength of both the downward pressures on inflation from a weaker economy and ii) the upward pressures on inflation from higher costs. It will also closely monitor inflation expectations.

It ended its statement by saying it is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians.

More scheduled BoC news

The Bank is scheduled to make its third policy interest rate decision of 2025 on April 16th. We will provide an executive summary immediately following that announcement. In the meantime, please reach out to us directly for other important insights.

Buying your first home? Congrats! But before you pop the champagne, let’s make sure you don’t fall into these common pitfalls.

Mistake #1: Skipping the Mortgage Pre-Approval You fall in love with a home—only to realize it’s way out of your price range. Ouch. Always get pre-approved before you start house hunting.

Mistake #2: Not Budgeting for Closing Costs Your down payment isn’t the only expense. Legal fees, land transfer taxes, and home inspections add up fast! Plan for 1.5-4% of the purchase price in extra costs.

Mistake #3: Ignoring First-Time Buyer Incentives The government wants to help you buy a home! From tax credits to down payment assistance, take advantage of every program available.

Mistake #4: Letting Emotions Take Over It’s easy to get attached, but don’t let a pretty kitchen distract you from serious issues like bad plumbing or foundation cracks. Stay objective!

Mistake #5: Not Working with the Right Experts A great REALTOR® and Mortgage Agent make all the difference. They’ll guide you, negotiate for you, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts: Home buying doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By avoiding these mistakes, staying informed, and working with the right professionals, you’ll be holding the keys to your dream home in no time!

At Magnolia Group Realty, we believe every homebuyer deserves expert guidance, from finding the perfect property to securing the right mortgage. With our team of experienced REALTORS® and mortgage expert Charlotte Ferguson, we’re here to make your journey smooth, stress-free, and even fun! Let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality—reach out today!

Think getting a great mortgage rate is all about having a perfect credit score? Think again! While credit is important, lenders look at a lot more than just a number. Here’s what REALLY influences your mortgage rate and how you can get the best one.

1. Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Lenders love to see that you’re financially stable. Keep your total debt (including credit cards and car loans) low in comparison to your income. This makes you a less risky borrower.

2. Your Down Payment Size A larger down payment means a smaller loan, which often translates to better rates. Aim for at least 20% to avoid mortgage insurance fees.

3. The Type of Mortgage You Choose Fixed-rate? Variable? Open? Closed? The type of mortgage you select impacts your rate. Fixed rates offer security, while variable rates might save you money if rates drop.

4. Shopping Around Don’t settle for the first mortgage offer you get. Work with a Mortgage Agent who can compare rates from multiple lenders and find you the best deal.

Bottom Line: There’s no one-size-fits-all mortgage. Your best bet? Work with a pro to tailor a mortgage solution that fits your financial goals.

Final Thoughts: Home buying doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By avoiding these mistakes, staying informed, and working with the right professionals, you’ll be holding the keys to your dream home in no time!

At Magnolia Group Realty, we believe every homebuyer deserves expert guidance, from finding the perfect property to securing the right mortgage. With our team of experienced REALTORS® and mortgage expert Charlotte Ferguson, we’re here to make your journey smooth, stress-free, and even fun! Let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality—reach out today!