Make the Most of Summer: Outdoor Project Ideas for Every Space

Nicole Hayes • July 10, 2025

Summer in Canada is short—but sweet. With warm weather and long evenings, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy your outdoor space, no matter how big (or small) it is. Whether you have a tiny patio or a sprawling backyard, a few creative upgrades can go a long way toward turning your space into your personal summer oasis.

Below are ideas for every type of outdoor space, from cozy balconies to large backyards!


For Patio-Only Spaces

Limited to a balcony or concrete patio? No problem! Small spaces can still offer big enjoyment.

1. Upgrade the Flooring
Add interlocking tiles to give your concrete floor a more polished look—wood grain, grass panels, or composite styles are all popular, easy-to-install options.

2. Create an Outdoor Movie Zone
Hang a pull-down screen or grab a portable stand, pair it with a mini projector, and voilà—your very own outdoor movie theatre under the stars!

3. Start an Herb Garden
Railing planters are perfect for growing basil, mint, parsley, and more. Fresh herbs at your fingertips—and they smell amazing too!

4. Add Some Twinkle
Wrap fairy lights around your railing or overhead beams to bring cozy vibes and nighttime charm.

5. Grill Like a Pro
Maximize your BBQ season with a compact baby-que. Weber’s Q Series is a great option for small spaces without compromising grilling power.


For Small Yards

A little yard can still pack a lot of personality. Here are ways to make the most of every square foot:

1. Game Time!
Add a mini putting green or an axe-throwing target (just be safe!) for quick bursts of backyard fun that don’t take up much space.

2. Warm Up Your Nights
Add a heating lamp or portable fire bowl to keep your evenings cozy well into the fall.

3. Grow Your Own Produce
Build or buy a raised garden box to grow tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, or other easy vegetables. Gardening is relaxing—and delicious!

4. DIY Bird Bath
Make a pedestal bird bath using an old vase, a platter, and strong glue. You likely have everything you need already at home—and the local birds will thank you!


For Big Yards

If space isn’t an issue, the sky’s the limit! Here are some larger-scale projects to take your yard to the next level:

1. Build a Catio
Yep, it’s a “cat patio”! Give your feline friends a safe way to enjoy the outdoors with a screened-in enclosure attached to your home.

2. Create a Permanent Fire Pit
Use stones and a fire ring to build a beautiful, safe fire pit. You can even add airflow cutouts to reduce smoke—perfect for those marshmallow roasts!

3. Tile a Dining Area
Install paving stones or tiles to define an outdoor dining space. Add a table, some string lights, and enjoy al fresco meals all summer long.


Need More Inspiration?

If none of these projects quite fit your vision, check out Home Depot’s DIY backyard ideas—complete with step-by-step instructions and material lists to help you bring your outdoor dreams to life.


Soak It Up While It Lasts

No matter the size of your space, there’s always something you can do to enhance your outdoor experience. So get out there, get creative, and make the most of these sunny summer days.

See you back here in August—with more tips, tricks, and homeowner insights!


Nicole Hayes
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Your Guide to Real Estate Investment in Canada

By Nicole Hayes • February 18, 2026
Your Guide to Real Estate Investment in Canada Real estate has long been one of the most popular ways Canadians build wealth. Whether you’re purchasing your first rental property or expanding an existing portfolio, understanding how real estate investment works in Canada—and how it’s financed—is key to making smart decisions. This guide walks through the fundamentals you need to know before getting started. Why Canadians Invest in Real Estate Real estate offers several potential benefits as an investment: Long-term appreciation of property value Rental income that can support cash flow Leverage , allowing you to invest using borrowed funds Tangible asset with intrinsic value Portfolio diversification beyond stocks and bonds When structured properly, real estate can support both income and long-term net worth growth. Types of Real Estate Investments Investors typically focus on one or more of the following: Long-term residential rentals Short-term or vacation rentals (subject to local regulations) Multi-unit residential properties Pre-construction or assignment purchases Value-add properties that require renovations Each type comes with different financing rules, risks, and return profiles. Down Payment Requirements for Investment Properties In Canada, investment properties generally require higher down payments than owner-occupied homes. Typical minimums include: 20% down payment for most rental properties Higher down payments may be required depending on: Number of units Property type Borrower profile Lender guidelines Down payment source, income stability, and credit history all play a role in approval. How Rental Income Is Used to Qualify Lenders don’t always count 100% of rental income. Depending on the lender and mortgage product, they may: Use a rental income offset , or Include a percentage of rental income toward qualification Understanding how income is treated can significantly impact borrowing power. Financing Options for Investors Investment financing can include: Conventional mortgages Insured or insurable options (in limited scenarios) Alternative or broker-only lenders Refinancing equity from existing properties Purchase plus improvements for value-add projects Access to multiple lenders is often crucial for investors as portfolios grow. Key Costs Investors Should Plan For Beyond the purchase price, investors should budget for: Property taxes Insurance Maintenance and repairs Vacancy periods Property management fees (if applicable) Legal and closing costs A realistic cash-flow analysis is essential before buying. Risk Considerations Like any investment, real estate carries risk. Key factors to consider include: Interest rate changes Market fluctuations Tenant turnover Regulatory changes Liquidity (real estate is not easily sold quickly) A strong financing structure can help manage many of these risks. The Role of a Mortgage Professional Investment mortgages are rarely “one-size-fits-all.” Lender policies vary widely, especially as you acquire more properties. Working with an independent mortgage professional allows you to: Compare multiple lender strategies Structure financing for long-term growth Preserve flexibility as your portfolio evolves Avoid costly mistakes early on Final Thoughts Real estate investment in Canada can be a powerful wealth-building tool when approached with a clear strategy and proper financing. Whether you’re exploring your first rental property or planning your next acquisition, understanding the numbers—and the lending landscape—matters. If you’d like to discuss investment property financing, run the numbers, or explore your options, feel free to connect. A well-planned mortgage strategy can make all the difference in long-term success.

Getting a Mortgage Shouldn’t Be Stressful—We Can Help

By Nicole Hayes • February 11, 2026
Buying a Home? Follow These 6 Key Steps for a Smooth Experience Buying a home is likely one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. It’s exciting—but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how mortgage financing works. To help make the process smoother (and far less stressful), here are six essential steps every homebuyer should follow: 1. Start With a Mortgage Professional—Not MLS It’s tempting to start your home search by scrolling through listings and booking showings—but the real first step should be speaking with an independent mortgage professional . Unlike a bank that offers only one set of products, an independent mortgage expert has access to multiple lenders and options . That means better advice, better rates, and a better chance of finding a mortgage that truly fits your needs. 2. Build a Personalized Mortgage Plan Unless you’re buying your home with cash, you’ll need a solid financing strategy. That means: Reviewing your credit score Running affordability calculations Exploring different mortgage types, terms, and features Understanding down payments and closing costs The sooner you start planning, the more confident you’ll feel. Don’t wait until you’ve found the “perfect” property— get ahead of the process now . 3. Figure Out What You Can Actually Afford What a lender says you can borrow doesn’t always match what you can comfortably pay each month. Take a close look at your budget, lifestyle, and spending habits. Think about how your mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, and other costs will fit into your everyday cash flow. Avoid the stress of being house-poor by knowing your real-life affordability , not just your paper pre-approval. 4. Get Pre-Approved the Right Way A true mortgage pre-approval isn’t just entering numbers into an online calculator. It means: Completing a mortgage application Submitting all your required documentation Having a mortgage professional fully assess your file When you’re officially pre-approved, you’ll shop for homes with confidence , knowing what you qualify for and that you’re financially ready. 5. Submit Your Documents Promptly and Stay Flexible Once you find a property and your offer is accepted, time is of the essence. That’s when all the upfront work you’ve done really pays off. Be ready to: Provide additional documentation if requested Respond to your mortgage professional quickly Stay flexible and proactive throughout the approval process Your lender needs to verify everything before finalizing the loan, so staying organized is key. 6. Don’t Make Big Financial Changes Before Closing Once you’ve secured financing and waived your conditions, freeze your finances until after you get the keys. Seriously—don’t: Change jobs Apply for new credit Take out a loan Make a large withdrawal Even small changes can throw off your approval. Keep everything status quo until you officially take possession. Recap: 6 Steps to a Smooth Home Purchase Connect with an independent mortgage professional Create a mortgage plan early Know what you can afford (not just what you qualify for) Get fully pre-approved Stay on top of documentation Avoid major financial changes before possession Ready to Buy with Confidence? If you’re thinking about buying a home—or just want to know what’s possible—let’s talk. I’ll help you map out a personalized plan that makes your homebuying journey feel simple, strategic, and stress-free. Reach out anytime. I’d love to help you get started.