It is with a proud and humble heart that I share a bit of office news. The 2014 RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach Awards were just published.
To the local resident skimming the pages of the paper, I doubt it’s even cause for pause. For my amazing loyal clients, it may serve as a “post-consumer confidence” boost, providing coffee conversation and a bit of satisfaction for working with a REALTOR who has passion and energy for real estate clients and our local community. Our fearless leaders, my sister Marilyn Ruttan and nephew Jason Ruttan, shared the news in an email, saying:
“Congratulations to everyone who won an award and to everyone who works in our RE/MAX office as together with everyone’s help we ended the year with a 41% Market Share amongst the Wasaga Beach Brokerages.”
I love how our office managing to capture a whopping 41% of area home buyers and sellers only receives a brief nod…and we move on. We don’t rest on our laurels…because we’re simply too busy helping clients transition into their dream homes. I’m proud of our achievements as an office and am pleased to share them.
Marilyn also commented:
“Please note the donations update along the right side of the ad as well. Our totals continue to climb which is something we should all be very proud of. In last year’s award ad we announced that Bruce’s Motorcycle for Miracles had raised approx. $20,000 and now it is up to almost $80,000. Congratulations Bruce for showing us that you can raise huge amounts of money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, take several months off work and still be the #1 Individual Sales Representative in the office for 2 years in a row!”
When I try to convey the satisfaction and gratitude I feel for the support of every single person who impacted the 2013/2014 Motorcycle For Miracles fundraising tour, words truly fail me. To each and every kindhearted client, local businessperson, family member, Facebook friend, traveller and fellow RE/MAX associate along the way, thank you for your interest and support in this ongoing initiative!
The Motorcycle for Miracles’ Flag Generated a $30,000 donation from RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic to SickKids Hospital via the Alyssa Rae Johnson Foundation
Fantastic opportunity to move to Meadowlark Blvd, one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in Wasaga Beach’s west end…
…close to schools, grocery and other shopping, medical, banking and pharmacy services and the family-oriented areas of the world’s longest freshwater beach.
This 1,402 sq. ft Linden model, a popular bungalow floor plan in the area, is clean, bright and has been freshly painted in soothing and modern Benjamin Moore hues. Its updated interior is a pleasure to view and invites the buyer to picture their own furnishings fitting in perfectly.
With 2 bedrooms on the main floor (including a large master with a balcony walkout and 4-pc ensuite), another bedroom downstairs, 3 bathrooms, spacious areas for gathering and a finished basement, family members will have plenty of room to spread their wings.
Stunning granite countertops and under mount sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms
The immaculate kitchen features brand new stainless appliances, granite countertops and a stylish under mount sink. The bathrooms have also been upgraded with beautiful granite countertops surrounding under mount sinks.
Outside, the property features a nice 124 ft deep lot and two decks overlook neat landscaping. Brand new garage doors open onto a double garage with inside entry, allowing for enjoyment of plenty of storage space, a feeling of security and the simple pleasure of getting into your clean, warm car in the morning.
For a complete list of recent upgrades please click here.
Your Treasure Map
Quick Directions: If you’d like to take a drive to check out the location, just head south from the Superstore on 45th Street, hang a left on Knox Road West, left again onto Meadowlark to #62. Explore the “bird name” streets and get a feel for the neighbourhood. Return often to get a sense of how friendly and peaceful a west-end neighbourhood can be.
For precise directions, just enter your location in the custom map below.
As you know, words and photos only go so far. Give me a shout and let’s take a look together.
Book your showing and “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the remainder of this year and beyond.
MLS#583160274
*SOLD*
It finally hit the market! The 2-bedroom riverfront home or cottage of your dreams.
1354 River Road West has that special something that put Wasaga Beach on the map – easy access for your personal watercraft, canoe or launch, lovely open concept layout, easy exterior maintenance and timeless appeal, all on a large lot in central Wasaga Beach, ON.
Ask anyone who lives along friendly River Road West to point to their front yard and most will lovingly gesture toward the sparkling waterway that is the infamous Nottawasaga River. River Road West is simply an access point that benefits from an abundance of mature trees, proximity to schools, services, trails, golf courses and of course the world’s largest freshwater BEACH.
Year-round living in prime boating on the Nottawasaga River is not often available in this price range. This two-bedroom home has a comfy living room with a gas fireplace and a walkout to your large rear deck overlooking the calm Nottawasaga as it meanders past your property en route to Georgian Bay.
Outside, the property features a metal roof, a steel break wall and large lot (60′ x 239′).
Inside, enjoy forced air nat. gas heat, a large 4 pc. bath, partial basement with workshop potential, plenty of cabinets and closets and from the spacious living room, dining room, kitchen, master bedroom and large rear deck, an inspiring water view. This waterfront home or cottage is ready to capture your heart and your imagination.
When flipping through the photos you’ll note the light, livable colours that allow you to picture your own furnishings fitting in with ease.
Your Treasure Map
Quick Directions: If you’d like to take a drive to check out the location, just hop on River Road West and when you see Birchview Dunes Elementary school, look for #1354.
Or enter your location in the custom map below for more detailed routing assistance.
As you know, words and photos only go so far. Give me a shout and let’s take a look together.
Book your showing and “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the remainder of this year and beyond.</h4>
MLS#582350221
Waking up to frost on the pumpkins this morning got me thinking about what’s ahead. And personally, the only way to get through the winter with my sanity is to either 1) head south or 2) keep busy!
“Working with Bruce and Mary Johnson actually made both selling our home and buying a new one an exciting and pleasant experience for my husband and myself! Trusting their advise and experience was the best thing we did!
Our home had been on the market prior to working with them with absolutely no interest. We soon learned that it was not our home that was unappealing, but the way it was marketed. After listing with Bruce, our home was sold in under two months for above asking price!
Bruce also went completely above and beyond to help us to purchase the home of our dreams! Although we know that they had many clients to work for while we were with them, they always made us feel as though we were their only concern: responding to questions via texts and e-mail IMMEDIATELY, no matter what day or time. We always felt as though we were important and that they were there for us.
Bruce and Mary are honest, trustworthy people who are AMAZING at what they do…making peoples dreams come true!!!
Thank you Bruce and Mary, we are forever grateful.”
I may have become known as a dedicated supporter of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the Hospital for Sick Children by founding Motorcycle for Miracles, but since 1997 when I began my real estate career with RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach, I have been quietly and automatically donating a portion of my commission to the Children’s Miracle Network.
I was proud to participate in the filming of this feature video that was just released by RE/MAX, LLC. Please watch to learn how this incredible partnership started and how it helps local kids. It’s truly an honour to support SickKids heroes!
With RE/MAX, caring goes beyond the real estate transaction
…and listing with Bruce Johnson Makes YOUR Home a Miracle Home!
Dreams do come true! Measuring approximately 325′ x 231′, this prime corner lot provides 2.03 Acres of skies-the-limit possibility.
Live…Where Others Vacation!
2.03 Acres of Opportunity
Get directions or calculate the short distance to Collingwood, Barrie, Base Borden and beach picnics! Located at the corner of Sunnidale Rd South and Walnut Drive adjacent to the highly desirable Wasaga Sands Estates subdivision, this large property offers the fantastic flexibility of its Rural Zoning, allowing for building your custom dream home or a great variety of non-residential uses (see list below).
Imagine the Possibilities!
This property also has predetermined reduced/capped Development Charges. To walk the property, explore the possibilities or ask any questions at all, please contact Bruce at RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach Inc., Brokerage today. MLS#20142427
630 Oxbow Park Drive is an impeccably-maintained four-season home or hideaway with tremendous appeal to nature lovers, artists, young or young-at-heart singles or couples.
Nature abounds and surrounds this wonderful one-bedroom riverfront home centrally located to Wasaga Beach’s fine trails, shopping and services. If you’d like to take a drive to check out the neighbourhood and the curb appeal, you’ll just head up River Road West to Oxbow Park Drive and meander upriver to #630.To map your route just click this link, enter your location and follow a more visual description of directions or view the map at bottom.
This stylishly landscaped property welcomes you with a covered porch, spacious foyer with gorgeous stained glass details and slate flooring, a pristine, updated 4-piece bath, gas fireplace, well-appointed laundry room and an artfully finished kitchen and dining area. Garden doors open onto a rear deck that overlooks a beautiful backyard that gives you 170 feet of wow from road to river and then offers approximately 70 feet of sparkling frontage on the Nottawasaga River.
For more details, scroll through this list of notable features. [gview file=”https://www.thehomehunt.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/List-of-Notable-Features-630-Oxbow-Park-Drive.pdf”]
202 Aspen Ridge Drive is a fantastic four-bedroom abode close to Airport Road in lovely Stayner, ON.
If you’d like to take a drive to check out this quiet, upscale neighbourhood and assess the curb appeal, just hop on Airport Rd south from the Stayner Tim Horton’s to Centre St., west to Sutherland and south to Aspen Ridge Drive.To map your route just click this link, enter your location and follow a more visual description of directions or view the map at bottom. This area is close to schools, shopping and services and conveniently central for commuters heading to Barrie or Toronto. Walk Score Canada gives this home a score of 63, which is actually really high for our area. Here’s what they note: “Nearby schools include Byng Public School, The Danceroom and Clearview Meadows Elementary School. The closest grocery stores are Naturally Yours, Oasis Convenience Inc and Bayside Wellness.Nearby coffee shops include Dairy Queen, Tim Horton’s and The Coffee Shop. There are 11 restaurants within a 15 minute walk including La Pizzeria, The Chopsticks and Mr Sub.” Click here to see an interactive map showing where this home is located in relation to walkable and driveable destinations.
Nicely landscaped and welcoming with a covered front entry, this property has much to offer:
Inside entry to three-car garage
Gated deck overlooking fully fenced back yard
Home backs onto a natural, development-free backdrop
Patio with a hot tub
Unique floor plan features a large loft family room
3 bedrooms on the main floor including a spacious master bedroom with 4-pc ensuite bath with separate glass-door tiled shower
Sun-drenched, eat-in kitchen shows very well with an island, plenty of cabinets, stainless appliances and custom backsplash
Gorgeous glowing hardwood in formal living/dining areas and hall to main floor laundry
Other than a large finished bedroom with double closet, and a storage area, the large basement awaits your finishing touches
This is a rare and fantastic opportunity to own a home or 4-season cottage on quiet but convenient Beck Street in Wasaga Beach`s east end. Enter your current address in the map below for easy directions and see what’s close by: Day care centres, schools, WalMart, Tim Horton’s, restaurants, services, parks, trails and of course Main Street and Beach Areas One and Two. This location not only earns an excellent Walk Score but is also right on the local public transportation route.
With its mature trees and whopping 205-foot depth, the lot alone creates visions of potential uses and enjoyment.
The lovingly maintained and recently updated interior features a large master bedroom, renovated semi-ensuite bathroom, two smaller bedrooms and spacious areas for gathering, either at the front with an entertainment unit or at the back, where a beautiful open-concept kitchen and dining space features a corner woodstove and is flanked by lots of windows and garden doors opening onto a fully fenced back yard. The steel roof, radiant-heated floors in kitchen and bath, ceramic and modern laminate flooring, fresh paint and minimal furnishings all send a clear signal: this lovely home is top to bottom move-in-ready.
Seize the opportunity, live in the prestigious Wasaga Sands Golf Course community and discover a rare gem of a home that is what we’d call “the whole package”. The first thing to note when you visit 21 Martyn Drive is the location and lot. Enter your current address for easy directions and see what’s close by: the Superstore, RecPlex, shops, trails, restaurants, services and of course the world’s largest freshwater beach! Backing onto the fourth fairway of the Wasaga Sands Golf Course, this home is situated on a jaw-dropping 82` x 323` lot on a very desireable quiet street. Go through the photos noting the pine forest backdrop to the landscaped yet easy-to-maintain backyard, as well as the quiet beauty of the stand of beautiful trees that greets you as come and go. A walkout leads you from the spacious kitchen/living area to a 12`x18` cedar deck overlooking your private oasis. A beautiful sunroom makes a perfect dining area looking out on the back yard as well. With 1,826 sq.ft. on the main floor and an immaculate, beautifully finished basement, this open concept beauty is loaded with features like a large master bedroom suite with vaulted ceiling and full ensuite. In fact, three bedrooms in this well-designed floor plan feature adjoining bathrooms. Photo gallery for smooth and easy desktop viewing: On a mobile device? Here’s your non-Flash slideshow:
Further notable details:
Main level is wheelchair friendly with a concrete ramp to front entry, wide doorways and roll-in tiled shower
New roof shingles in July 2013
Tons of organized storage including huge double closets
Something for everyone in the family outside and in, including a home office or hobby room and a dream workshop area in the finished basement
Lastly, it’s well worth mentioning that this custom Bart Chase home also contains a quality that’s not easy to photograph, measure or described in words, some like to call it a “good energy house” or “house filled with happy chi!” We hope the pictures are worth at least 1,000 words and that you’ll make your appointment today to fill in the rest! Please contact Bruce Johnson with any questions or to schedule your private showing. Experience all the reasons why 21 Martyn Drive should be on your short list of “Top Picks” when you decide to Live…Where Others Vacation!
Here it is, the location and lifestyle you’ve been waiting for.
Just move in! Enjoy 2000 sq feet of finished living space in this fantastic family home close to Collingwood’s finest schools, trails, YMCA, Curling Club, shopping and services. If you’d like to take a drive to check out the neighbourhood and the curb appeal, you’ll just head to Hume St to Peel St to Bush St to River Run. Or click this link, enter your location and follow a more visual description of directions: 11 River Run is an impeccably-maintained 2 storey home with 3 bedrooms on the upper level and one downstairs. With 2 1/2 baths and spacious, cheery living spaces, this home can easily accommodate a growing family. As you go through the photos, be sure to note the wood and ceramic floors, oak cabinets, modern touches and beautiful colours flowing throughout the home, including to a finished basement which features a rec area, 4th bdrm and 3 pc ensuite bath. The laundry room is conveniently located on the upper floor adjacent to the bedrooms. With its nicely landscaped yard, double paved drive, single garage (with handy inside entry from the spacious front foyer) and walkout to a fabulous two-tiered deck complete with gas grill and built-in hot tub, there’s no reason to wait. In fact, you might want to contact Bruce to take a look today!
Book your showing and “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the rest of 2014 and beyond.
This family home on friendly, convenient Dyer Drive features a large master bedroom with 3-piece ensuite, a spacious second bedroom plus a third bedroom or office on the well-laid-out, 1,180 sq ft main floor. Also, there’s another TWO large bedrooms, 4-pc bathroom, rec room and spacious laundry area in the finished basement so you, your kids and guests will have plenty of space for sleeping, studying and socializing.
Enjoy the easy life here! The lively eat-in kitchen with abundant natural light, ceramic floor and custom tiled countertop and backsplash has a walkout to a deck overlooking a fully-fenced back yard (lot is approx. 115′ deep).
The paved driveway to the over-sized garage completes the picture of a much sought-after low-maintenance lifestyle.
First, as you go through the photos, imagine your loved ones and favourite furnishings nestled here at 117 Dyer Drive in east Wasaga Beach.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this well-established neighbourhood.
117 Dyer Drive in beautiful Wasaga Beach
Dyer Drive is close to Birchview Dunes Elementary School, the Wasaga Beach Public Library and Blueberry Trails for unwinding among the pines on foot, bicycle or cross country skis. The location is also convenient to the vibrant and ever-growing Stonebridge shopping/dining centre and an easy jaunt to the main Beach Areas. It’s also a very easy hop onto either of the main arteries that lead to Barrie, Base Borden, Georgian Bay, Collingwood, Blue Mountain, and world-class golf courses, marinas and ski hills, ensuring your real estate investment will be a wise one for building equity in the years to come. Book your showing soon let Bruce show you how and where to “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the rest of 2014 and beyond.
Here’s your opportunity to own a lovely home on a 52′ x 129′ lot in a quiet, tree-lined residential area. Located in east-central Wasaga Beach, 30 Leo Boulevard is close to shopping, schools, restaurants and the longest freshwater beach in the world.
The popular Corvette model, built by Fernbrook Homes, has the much-coveted 3 bedrooms on the 1,400 sq.ft. main level, including a spacious master with walk-in closet and 4-pc ensuite. The large bright kitchen/dining nook combo has lots of cupboard space, built-in side cabinetry and a walkout to a deck overlooking the partly fenced rear yard. The details are in the photos, which show a happy, spacious home outfitted in neutral colours and finishes, the ultimate clean canvas for your favourite furnishings.A clean, large, wide-open basement awaits your finishing touches or organized storage and play zones. Finally, a two-car garage handles your vehicle and the rest of your seasonal/toy storage needs. For more information or to schedule a private showing, contact Bruce Johnson today.MLS#20142282
Book a private tour and note how easy it is to picture yourself and your favourite furnishings fitting in nicely! Just move in.
A combination of natural sunlight streaming in from two cardinal directions and custom overhead lighting creates a perfect kitchen for a sunny disposition!
Spacious master bedroom with walk-in closet and 4-pc ensuite
If you have been searching for a home with a combination of these assets:
Location;
Privacy;
Size (not-too-big, not-too-small); and
Move-in condition
Well Then, Welcome Home!
Located in a serene, friendly neighbourhood with an abundance of gorgeous mature trees, close to schools, shopping, golf courses, the RecPlex and of course the world’s largest freshwater BEACH, this custom home merits a closer look.
This Timlock-built raised bungalow has the magical number of 3 main floor bedrooms (with a 4-pc master bedroom ensuite) and 1,260 sq,ft, of glorious, open-concept living space on the main level PLUS a bright finished basement with a huge family area set around a corner gas fireplace, a play zone bathed in natural light, a spacious home office, an additional bedroom with tons of closet space, a ready-to-finish basement bathroom and a large laundry/utility area opening to the inside entry from the double garage.
You can appreciate a nice balance of privacy and openness here as the large 100′ x 150′ lot is framed by a high cedar hedge in front and quietly spacious in the back yard with plenty of space for entertaining, gardening and running around playing, making memories at every turn.
When flipping through the photos you’ll note there is also a paved side driveway and an RV plug to harbour your toys.
Due to the flowing layout, hardwood flooring, designer paint palette, a/c, walkout from kitchen area to rear deck, and a healthy dose of that indescribable “good house vibe,” this home is truly a pleasure to show and view.
As you know, words and photos only go so far. Give me a shout and let’s take a look together.
A hearty THANK YOU to all who came out to support the charity event at the RecPlex!
The beautiful warm sunny day helped hundreds of high quality gently used items get ‘discovered’.
Great turnout in Wasaga Beach today and fun to see the smiles when people would ask “how much?” and hear the answer “it’s all for a donation to the Breast Cancer Foundation so whatever you would like to give”
It was like a party in the parking lot, seeing tons of clients, family, friends, all hunting for a bargain or a burger or just to make a donation and come away with a decorative item or something useful for the house or kids…just such a win-win.
As you can tell, we love this initiative and are so grateful that the #Wasaga Beach community is into it too!
Winter-weary and ready to welcome summer, locals and visitors alike are getting ready for bonfires, BBQs and beach time. We’d like to wish everyone a relaxing and very enjoyable May long weekend. Stay safe, be patient with traffic, keep your sense of humour handy and keep smiling. Warm sparkling days and peaceful evenings are what makes Wasaga Beach so special. It’s a treat to live here and a blessing to be able to share it with future residents!
Here’s a beach-fun video for dog lovers, but gotta love the CAT too! 😉
24 Beachview Drive Location
*SOLD!*
This immaculate, freehold bungaloft is one-of-a-kind. Location: Situated in beautiful Stonebridge, a community where the coastal architecture of the homes is perfectly blended with the surrounding 95-acre community with restaurants, shops, services, walking trails, a private beach club, heated pool and more. This home is located in a premium location backing onto green space.
Long before Bruce and Holly reached their mutual goal of riding a motorcycle into our adopted winter town of Ojochal, Costa Rica, there was an even more far-fetched vision in Bruce’s mind. Far-fetched because back in 2010, it stretched the boundaries of what he felt was feasible, but he never hesitated to share his vision with co-workers, contacts and new friends at RE/MAX brokerages in Canada and Costa Rica and every possible RE/MAX office in between.
“I see myself on stage with Holly, presenting the RE/MAX flag to the Linigers at the Opening Session of the RE/MAX R4 International Convention in Las Vegas.”
That was the vision.
And, true to the Universal laws of attraction…this is what happened:
As was our greatest hope, Gail Liniger, co-founder of RE/MAX, embraced the journey and in her special way of being genuine and generous, returned the gift by donating it to the Children’s Miracle Network “Big Give” auction where this simple bit of nylon, embued with international best wishes from loving souls who happen to work within what we proudly call the RE/MAX FAMILY, these hundreds of signatures added up to one whopper of a donation for sick children and their families. $30,000. This act, led by RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic superstars David Brown and Shelby Schneider, outperformed some pretty incredible auction items – a trip to France, backstage passes to Lady Gaga, golf getaways in luxurious splendor…. None were, in the end, as valuable as helping sick kids get back to the business of being healthy and happy.
As Bruce debated which route to take in returning full-circle to Toronto’s SickKids Hospital and our home RE/MAX here in Wasaga Beach, his “relative” proximity to Denver, Colorado, the birthplace and world HQ of RE/MAX, was calling. As you can see in Bruce’s photo album on facebook, the reception felt like reaching another summit, with yet another reward for sick children: a $10,000 gift from RE/MAX LLC to the Alyssa Rae Johnson fund.
Last October, as we were goal-setting for this fundraising initiative, we were uncertain whether $25,000 was a pie-in-the-sky amount to aim for. Today, as we approach $70,000 raised, Bruce has the Rocky Mountains in his rear-view mirror and the contentment of knowing that we set the bar too low.
Our hearts overflow with the kindness and generosity we have witnessed along this journey. Thank you for your interest and for sharing this special initiative!
~Mary
At the RE/MAX World Headquarters in Denver, Colorado
Thank you so much to Mobile Agent TV for giving me such a wonderful platform to share stories from the first Motorcycle for Miracles journey. Two very skilled interviewers at the helm of this show. And I just shared with the world what my snowy return looked like from my GoPro video as I nearly crashed less than a minute from my home after 13,500 miles of riding.
Please follow Bruce’s initiative to raise $25,000 for SickKids Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network at http://www.johnsonjourneys.com/category/blog/
Thank you for your interest and support!
“We were so lucky to have Bruce when we bought our first home. He worked hard to find us the perfect one and fought even harder on our behalf to clinch the deal. We can truly say he will not only be our realtor for life, but a dear friend as well. We gave Bruce’s name to my parents as well and now they love him too (my mother a little too much….)! Thanks Bruce!”
“Bruce, We want to express how pleased we are with our new acquisition. We could not have done it without you’re commitment to our dream and your positive attitude that you would find just the right property for us. It has been a pleasure working with you. You listened to our needs and desires. Your integrity and principles found us the right match. You were always available and worked within our time constraints. The moment we stepped foot on the property we knew you had found it for us. Thank you for all your efforts, it truly made us feel wonderful and very lucky we met you. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how special we felt when you and your family showed up at the property to give us the key. It made us feel like family. Again thank you for such a rewarding experience.”
“In the past 10 years my wife and I have been assisted by Bruce in the buying and selling of 3 homes for a total of six transactions with him. In each instance he caused the stress level to be significantly lower than it should have been. He is incredibly intelligent with regards to the real estate business in general, and phenomenally knowledgeable about the Georgian Bay areas properties. He was always available to us, and provided needed insight and feedback throughout each process. He even offers follow-up care. The only problem in dealing with Bruce is that he will ruin your experience with other agents. Recently my mother moved from Niagara to Barrie utilizing two agents, one there and one here. My expectations of what they could do were so high (due to my dealings with Bruce) that I was very disappointed. Oh, they did the usual stuff like put ads in the paper and arranged showings, but that was it. They didn’t offer meaningful input, and most noticeably missing was following up after the transaction to make sure she was happy. It is the small things that make differences in one’ s life. Bruce, you look after ALL the small things that your clients shouldn’t worry about. That is what makes you our agent for life!”
And more from past years…
“I think you have a very wonderful way of expressing yourself and you are in the RIGHT BUSINESS! I feel you and your lovely wife Mary make a great team.” Edith McDonald
“Bruce became my agent quite by chance–the poor sucker who happened to be on call one Sunday afternoon–when I decided that I could not possibly wait another minute to own a property at The Beach. Always the voice of reason, Bruce convinced me, this unknown crazy woman on the other end of the phone, that I did not need to hop in the car and drive the two hours right that very second. From that moment on, Bruce had an easy way of making me feel more like an old friend than an eccentric client. Although that did not keep him from reminding me on occasion that by the time we managed to find a place, in what turned out to be more than a year later, I would have driven him sufficiently over the edge that I would owe him a case of Gibson’s finest! Through it all though he was always a companion to my rambling late night email requests for MLS numbers. The one person I could count on to reply with a quick wit even at 2 a.m. A willing participant in discussions as to why The Cottage Gods seemed to be displeased with me, as my dream cottage remained elusive. He was a co-conspirator in the name game for various properties we saw: “The Swiss Chalet, The Shacks of La Playa Nuevo and the infamous Ugly Mushroom House,” which is a story unto itself. Ask him about it one day, if you want to see just how far around his head can spin! He even managed to win over my somewhat sceptical husband by refusing to conform to the usual more formal agent attire, choosing instead to wear shorts and sandals to show us properties. I will never forget the day we found the What-a-Saga Beach House. He was so excited to have sealed the deal for us, practically hopping from one foot to another as we talked strategy. His strategy worked, as finally the Cottage Gods were smiling on us. It was a short-lived feeling though, as eight days later it became apparent that any favour bestowed on us was to help protect us from the tragedy that the universe was about to deliver. It was after my husband’s sudden passing when Bruce proved without doubt that he was not only an agent beyond compare but also a true friend. He handled the details of the closing seamlessly with the utmost of respect and professionalism, working to ensure nothing would stand in the way of what was to become a much needed escape to my own little slice of Paradise. He even kept his promise to my late husband and made sure that our beach house had a fire pit, a gift we will enjoy for years to come. Bruce became my agent by chance, but it is by choice that I now call him my friend. I would recommend him without hesitation.” Susan Wong
“We found Bruce to be very professional, friendly and patient. We were first-time homebuyers, so Bruce had his work cut out. He never pressured us and he always followed up with us on all our requests and questions.” Jennifer Page and Paul Curran
“Bruce is very professional and helpful, not high-pressured. His service is excellent—he does more than sell a home.” Ron and Donna Gosselin
“I think Bruce’s greatest ability is to make his customers comfortable enough with him to be brutally honest. That’s important when it’s a money matter. Bruce is very friendly, and he takes the time to listen to your needs and tastes. He has a lot of energy!” Dave and Carolyn Harris
“Dear Bruce, Our experience with you was much better than many agents we have dealt with. You showed us exactly what we wanted to see instead of what you felt we could afford. Keep up the great attitude and wonderful service!” Malcolm and Wendy McFarlane
“Bruce is extremely friendly and easy to talk to and shows genuine concern for all his clients’ needs regarding real estate. He cared about what we wanted, protected our interests, and we are very happy in our new home.” Andy and Dorothy Traill
“Dear Bruce, A great big thank-you for all your time and patience with us. Your dedication and genuine friendship helped us find just what we were looking for. Very early on you were not only our “Agent” but became our friend. Thank you for welcoming us to Wasaga Beach with the lovely baskets and an original Johnson birdhouse!” The Vivona Family
“Bruce is very accommodating as far as meeting at special times and places. I appreciated his efforts & extra time spent with us since we were from out of town. Service was always excellent and all information was complete and explained efficiently. Bruce’s personality is unsurpassed!” Michael and Natalie Padden
“WOW” is the first word used by everyone who walks into my freshly painted house. Mary not only helped us pick really great colors but explained why they would be so great for our personalities. This made us much more confident to take a leap for a fresh new look and that it would be the right choice for us. We genuinely love our new look and are so thankful to Mary for making it happen. She truly is a house whisperer.” Steve and Stephanie Scholte
“When we finally made the commitment to sell our home we turned to Mary for her expertise in home staging. We firmly believed in the process and wanted to set our home apart from the rest of the housing market. After Mary’s initial assessment she provided us with an extensive list detailed by room and exterior improvement opportunities. At first we were overwhelmed but through dedication and hard work we tackled the list and immediately started to appreciate the transformation that was taking place. Mary supported us though the process with guidance and assistance and more than a few words of encouragement! We highly recommend Mary’s staging magic to everyone.” The Vandeputtes
Follow Bruce and Holly’s blog as they Motorcycle for Miracles…from home base and RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach straight south to New Orleans, over to Texas, down through Mexico and continuing all the way to Ojochal, Costa Rica. See their approximate current location here or take a look at the route map.
If you’re not a close friend or family member, you may be wondering about the “why” of the journey. In the days to follow, we will be answering the following questions and more in the About Us area. Questions like ‘Why would Bruce and his 12-year-old daughter want to motorcycle over 9,500 kilometres through every kind of weather and over every kind of road?’ ‘What is the RE/MAX connection here?’
One of the most poignant aspects of this trip for us at this point is the chance to share our daughter Alyssa’s SickKids story and the incredible opportunity to give back to the hospital that provided a beautiful life AND death for our precious first child, by providing the structure and support of setting up The Alyssa Rae Johnson Fund, forever and completely benefitting the SickKids Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network.
To join us in support of SickKids Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network, we ask that you consider a gift today towards this very special initiative to raise $25,000 through the Alyssa Rae Johnson Fund. Regardless of whether you are in Canada or the U.S., you will receive a charitable tax receipt. There needs to be two separate Fund Thermometers to help the Children’s Miracle Network admin staff keep the correct currency and receipts organized.
Canadian contributors can make a donation online by clicking here or on the badge below.
If you prefer NOT to donate online but would like to make a difference in the life of a sick baby or child in North America, kindly make your cheque (aka “check” in the U.S.) to “Children’s Miracle Network” and mail it to:
ATTN: Aaron Sanderson, Children’s Miracle Network
RE: Motorcycle for Miracles
525 University Ave
Toronto ON M5G 2L3
Canada
If it is received by Dec 31st, you will receive a charitable gift tax receipt for 2013, no matter if you are in the US or Canada.
No matter what you choose, we are ever so grateful for your friendship!!! And cannot thank you enough for your encouragement of Holly as she learns that her actions can inspire others and make a difference in the world.
How LONG homes are taking to sell in your neighbourhood
When you have the most recent data, you can feel secure in the knowledge that you are informed. You will feel more confident in knowing whether relocating is in your best interests, all things considered.
Please see my latest Market Reportfor what I believe to be the most easily-digested data available to homeowners or homeowners-to-be on the planet. And please do contact me with any questions.
and compare to previous issues for even more perspective on the real estate market:
Feedback is important in the real estate biz… Feedback helps home sellers direct their energy toward key improvements, helps home buyers hone in on properties that are more and more custom to their unique needs and wants and for Realtors, client feedback helps us know if we’re on track with our systems and skills. We don’t get specific when we ask for testimonials – in fact it’s as casual as “we would love it if you would write us a review of your experience with us while it’s fresh. It creates a history of our time together that we often look back on years later, kind of like a life journal of our work. We’d be honoured to have you both become part of our “History Wall.”
“I love what I do and count my lucky stars to be able to share this professional journey with my best friend and wife, Mary. We are privileged to enter a relationship with clients based on trust and a passionate pursuit of our common goal: the successful sale and purchase of a home, one of life’s greatest investments.” ~Bruce
What I find most appealing about the client reviews received this week is how they reflect back how our clients are experiencing us both as individuals AND as a team.
If you’re reading this, then you must have some interest in others’ experience working with us, and so we hope you’ll forgive us for gushing about our clients in turn. We have the best clients in the world! Funny, positive and GREAT writers. Here’s proof:
*Note: this post is best viewed in the regular web view so if on your cell, scroll down and click “Exit mobile mode”
“To begin, my Mother’s condo at Sunset Point in Collingwood was up for sale with another agency, for over a year…. I decided to search for another agent. So when I put in my order of the kind of person I was looking for, the answer was “I know just the person, Mr. Bruce Johnson,” and the journey began.
Within 1 week the condo was staged by Mary and sold by Bruce…The best husband-wife team I ever met….They complement one another beautifully.
At this point the search was on for a home. We needed 2 homes in 1. I wanted to stay in the area both my mother and I had come to enjoy, on a bus route, near a hospital, and so on…. Well there’s a saying that goes ‘What’s for you, won’t go by you’….and as fate should have it we found the perfect home through Bruce. There were a few hair-raising moments during the closing, and once again Bruce handle things like a pro.
Bruce and Mary were so easy to like and admire. They are truly beautiful people and I would recommend them to everyone. This was my first experience with buying and selling of homes, and it was the last for my mother, who has had many experiences buying and selling….
Well, I’ll conclude with, if your lucky enough to have Mary and Bruce Johnson working for you…you’re in great hands.”
Liane and Sally Mullan
“We feel so lucky to have had the pleasure of working with Bruce to buy our forever home and to sell our starter home of fourteen plus years. The great part about working with Bruce to sell your house is that you get an added bonus; Mary. What a phenomenal team they are. Mary’s vision of how to paint, arrange your furniture and stage your home to attract a wide variety of potential buyers and Bruce’s expert knowledge of the real estate market and fantastic photography skills create “the whole package.” We listened to their recommendations (well, most of them,) made the changes to our house and it sold in less than a week. Our new home purchase with Bruce was equally enjoyable. He knew when to tell us that the house we saw on MLS was not the right one. He entertained our numerous visits to other houses; never pressuring us to place an offer. In fact, Bruce would often tell us to keep looking and the right house would come along. Well, it did and we love it! Bruce’s knowledge of Wasaga Beach stems from his lengthy residency here which allows him to help clients make informed decisions on the largest purchase of their lives; their home. If you’re buying a house make sure you use Bruce Johnson to ensure you buy a home, not just a house.
Bruce and Mary we would just like to thank you for all of your patience with us during this massive transition in our lives. Your knowledge and understanding will be cherished and remembered forever. Together you really are the whole package.”
Jeremy and Deena Osborn
“The easiest place to start is always the beginning and I will begin by asking that you forgive the length of this “review.” We first met Bruce last year when we interviewed 6 real estate agents to list our house for sale. Bruce definitely matched us the best but unfortunately friendship had to be honoured and we went with another agent. No need to get into that suffice to say the listing expired. When it did I called Bruce and told him our plans of what we wanted to do to get the house ready to re-list and that we would be calling him shortly. Three weeks later we called and asked that he bring all pertinent paper work to sign us up.
Once all was said and done we met Mary. We have all used the expression “There’s something about Mary” but never has it been more apt than when speaking about Mary Johnson – there is definitely something about this Mary. She projects such a quiet, calming aura that you have no choice but to just relax and feel good in her presence. Do not mistake this and think she is an easy sway to your ideas. Behind that quiet is a will of steel and such strength and belief in her vision for how your home should be “staged” but projected in such a way that you bend to her will without feeling like you have capitulated in any way. I have put “staged” in quotations because in no way when Mary is finished does your home look or feel like it is staged – it will feel very warm, welcoming and inviting while everything is in its place and looking like it has been there forever because that is where it belonged – even if it isn’t yours but a piece from the Johnson’s home. That feeling that Mary can create is true “magick“.
I have said that Bruce was a great match for us and I would like to clarify why. He has such an outgoing and positive personality, he is fun, likes to laugh and truly makes you feel welcome in all aspects. He matched us to a “T”. When you look past all the exterior qualities that is when you really notice that being a real estate agent is not only his job but his passion and you can tell easily that he truly enjoys what he does. Bruce also has a very creative side to him that is very evident in the pictures that he takes of your home before it is listed. I am not talking about a couple pictures but a complete photo shoot and over 50 photos. As a seller you really don’t appreciate that but as a buyer you do but I will get into that more in the next chapter. Thanks to Bruce’s photos, Mary’s creativity and yes our sweat, our home sold conditionally in 10 hours and was sold firm in just 4 days. If that is not a testament I don’t know what would be.
As a buyer things are a little different and you notice a lot of little things that are really very important. We spent a lot of time on Realtor.ca looking for our next home. Most listings had maybe 5 or 6 pictures if we were lucky and not very good ones at that. I found that to be very frustrating and “Where are the pictures of the kitchen and bathrooms?” became a mantra over the next few weeks. Bruce’s patience during our “let’s go see this one” stage was unlimited. His composure as well as his (no polite way to say this) cajones when dealing with a potential private sale were worthy of the standing “O”. Yes we did finally find our next home and are looking forward to moving in July.
This is not the end as we know we will be selling and buying a few more houses but I do know that when all is said and done it will end with us living “happily ever after” and yes Bruce and Mary will be with us for every one of them. True magick is found in ones enjoyment of their life in all aspects and Bruce and Mary are truly a magickal team.”
Tanya and Dave Crawford
Click here to see more client reviews or to add your own Review to our “History Wall.”
“Making the transition to a new home is akin to crossing a bridge. Sometimes it is a bridge to the unknown; sometimes even the path to the bridge requires a guide and confidante.” ~Mary Johnson
Lake Huron levels have set new record lows, say officials.
Wasaga Beach and Collingwood residents
are interested in current and future Georgian Bay water levels for many reasons so we thought we’d post a bit of background information (sourced directly with thanks to www.cbc.ca via The Current podcast from last Friday) to explain why water levels are such an important issue to all of us.
The Great Lakes hold 20 per cent of the world’s fresh water. And that percentage is shrinking, threatening fish stocks and wetlands, putting shipping lanes at risk and prompting talk of a crisis in a water system that defines a region and sustains a multi-trillion-dollar economy. There have been many media alarms sounding about this issue, especially since January with interesting articles like this one.
But the proposed solutions pit communities against each other. They also raise concerns about whether we can engineer our way out of a problem many people think is largely of our own making.
Water levels are down all over the Great Lakes and they have been for more than a decade. The Great Lakes have seen water levels ebb and flow before. But many people think what’s happening now is different, that it’s being driven by climate change and other human interventions not nature taking its course. It’s exceptionally bad on Lake Huron, the lake Georgian Bay is attached to.
The red around the Wasaga Beach and Collingwood area of Georgian Bay shows how extremely stressed our area is compared to the rest of the Lake Huron and other Great Lakes areas.
Over the years, various parts of the Great Lakes have been dredged to build harbours and shipping channels. And those interventions seem to have knocked the Great Lakes system out of balance.
Here’s why.
The water in Georgian Bay runs to the southernmost tip of Lake Huron and drains into the St. Clair River. That’s been happening for as long as the Great Lakes have been around about 10,000 years. But about 50 years ago, the St. Clair River was dredged to improve shipping channels. And since then, the water has been draining from Lake Huron a lot faster… apparently too fast.
Roger Gauthier — a retired hydrologist with the US Army Corp of Engineers — explains it:
“If you increase the channel capacity in the St. Clair river, you have an outlet that is essentially leaking … if I can use that term … what you end up doing is you lower Michigan, Huron and Superior. The lakes are out of bounds.”
So, how do you slow down a river?
With underwater speed bumps.
“The original designs were actually done in 1965. You would put in a series of underwater structures, maybe 20-25 of those to essentially act as speed bumps on the bottom of the river that would slow the flow of the water.”
Studies from the US Army Corp of Engineers show those speed bumps would slow the river enough to significantly increase water levels all the way up in Lake Huron. As Roger Gauthier said, the idea has been around for a long time.
This graphic shows how dredging of the St Clair river would obviously have profound effects on Georgian Bay water level maintenance.
But it has been given new life, thanks to the International Joint Commission. It manages the joint interests of Canada and the United States in the Great Lakes. And the Commission is recommending both governments look into putting some kind of structures in the St. Clair River.
To ask questions, gather information and find out how you can help, attend the 7 pm meeting at the RecPlex in Wasaga Beach tonight.
is perfectly located for beach enjoyment and it also has the kind of character and floor plan that translate into great investment potential.
Peace, privacy and natural beauty are in great supply without giving up on the convenience of being very close to shopping and restaurants. With the 1,579 sq feet fully optimized to feature three bedrooms and two family rooms your clan will have plenty of room to spread its wings.
Improvements to the property include new exterior doors, newer windows and a modern kitchen. Two wood-burning fireplaces make for cozy winter evenings.
The kitchen truly is the heart and hub of this home!
The lot is huge, measuring 100` x 125` and three walkouts open onto a large deck for entertaining. Recently reduced price reflects the need for new shingles.
Zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s close: the Stonebridge shopping centre with all of its shops and restaurants, Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone Creamery, Foodland, Birchview Elementary School, and of course Wasaga’s Main Street leading to the beautiful boardwalks and shops of Wasaga Beach’s Main Beach Area One…all within walking or easy cycling distance from your door. The Wasaga Stars Arena is also very close and this is a great location for anyone employed in the east end of Wasaga Beach or Elmvale, or looking for an easier commute to Angus, CFB Borden and Barrie.
Located in the highly sought-after Wasaga Sands Estates area of west-end Wasaga Beach, this stunning 5 bedroom home will surely top your list.
Within its custom finished, smartly styled and impeccably maintained 2,870 square feet are 5 spacious bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, an open flow between great room and kitchen with island and breakfast nook garden doors opening out to the grand 86’ x 263’ lot. The large south-facing deck offers a sunny outlook onto fields, trees and sky. Whether you’re a fan of entertaining or privacy or both, this home offers up something to fall in love with.
The most impressive features of this Maple Drive marvel are found in the spaciousness of the rooms and storage and the quality of the custom countertops and light fixtures. Simply stated, if you like what you see in the photos, you will be even more inspired in person.
A casually elegant custom kitchen is the heart of this home, and the appliances and layout will sing to your soul regardless of cooking style
What you can only appreciate to the extent that your screen does justice to the modern, serene colour palette, are features such as the slate tile floor in the foyer, the kitchen’s stainless steel farm-front undermount sink surrounded by HanStone Quartz countertops and the huge kitchen island with plenty of room for seating and gathering. The photos clearly point out the custom California shutters, and how the 9 foot ceilings are graced with upgraded light fixtures in every room.
Yes the photos may lead to your nod of approval to the master bedroom, noting that at 18′ 6” x 15′ it’s fit for a King sized bed and the King AND Queen’s furnishings, with its walk-in closet plus a second large closet. Finished for timeless enjoyment, the ensuite master bath also shines with handsome HanStone Quartz, a material that is renowned for its incredible depth and clarity, for its ability to resist heat and staining, and cleaning up easily with a mild soap and water.
It may not be so obvious in the slideshow, however, that the main floor and upstairs bathroom countertops are decked out in Corian solid surface counters and sinks, another timeless touch to offer years and years of beautiful service. Since Corian is nonporous, stains don’t have a chance to sink in and it tends to resist mold, mildew and bacteria.
And pictures simply can’t show the extent to which this home offers all the storage space you need and more. From the added features such as pull-outs in the cabinets and spacious pot drawers to the 3-car garage and its loft for extra storage, any family would be hard-pressed to run out of space here. The inside entry from the garage leads to the most restful, organized laundry room imaginable. And at the back of the 3rd garage bay is a door that opens onto a large cement pad for all your recreational toy storage needs. This is a young, fun, happy home suited to all ages and stages of living and growing.
In addition, a clean, wide open basement awaits your finishing choices or as a perfect winter training area for your Olympic hopefuls. The 9-foot ceilings, tons of natural light and bathroom rough-in will make it a breeze to design.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this superbly located jumping off point for commuters heading out to Stayner, Barrie, CFB Borden and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA).
If you love the water, peaceful nature trails, hiking, biking and living in a location that is a bit set apart yet intrinsic to the the small town feel of beautiful Wasaga Beach, Ontario, you’ll love this area! The images below (used with permission) were captured by local Collingwood photographer Diane Hammond in the Sunset Point and Collingwood Harbour areas this year. See more of her wonderful photos at http://dibytes.ca
Intrigued? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling while enjoying the proximity to sunsets and soft Georgian Bay breezes or, right outside your door, McIntyre Creek’s trails for fresh air and connecting to nature in all seasons. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.
…it would be difficult not to be inspired by this 2 bedroom year-round home or cottage just a 2-minute walk to the gorgeous sunsets over Georgian Bay at 62nd Street North. The layout of this gem delivers 724 sq. ft. of enjoyment with a freshly-painted, open concept kitchen, living and dining area, a home office or hobby room and two loft bedrooms upstairs. Note the renovated 4-piece bathroom, large hall entry closets, lots of tucked-away storage zones and the kitchen opening onto a private, spacious rear deck with a happy little seasonal creek flowing by. This 50` x 70` property is a true friend to the buyer looking for low-maintenance living, freeing you up to frolic in the waves…which, on a breezy day, you can hear from the front yard!
For the buyer who would rather be at the beach than mowing and spending on upkeep!
Highlights of this west-end Wasaga Beach wonder include:
Fresh and clean throughout with lots of natural light lending to a “peaceful, easy feeling”
Spacious kitchen with lots of cabinets and a built-in oven
The deck is like-new and accessible from the kitchen
Plenty of privacy
Easy-care lot featuring seasonal creek and easy-care landscaping
Laminate, carpet and beautiful original wood flooring
First, as you go through the photos, imagine your loved ones and favorite furnishings nestled here at 31 62nd Street North. Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this easy-access western Wasaga Beach, Ontario neighbourhood: close to Wasaga Beach Provincial Park’s Beach Area 6, the RecPlex, grocery store, shopping and restaurants, and a very easy hop to the new Highway 26, which is one of the main arteries of the area and leads to Collingwood and Blue Mountain in no time.View Larger MapIntrigued? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling at 31 – 62nd Street North in Wasaga Beach, Ontario. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.Share
Beautifully dressed and architecturally inspiring…
This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is quite possibly the one you’ve been waiting for on a massive lot (203 ft frontage) in the much-admired Wasaga Sands Estates area of west-end Wasaga Beach.
With upgraded trim, coffered ceilings, crown moulding and many fine finishes throughout, this 1,823 sq.ft. “WASAGA Model” home (3,523 sq.ft. fully finished) features nine-foot ceilings upstairs and down, main floor laundry at one of two inside entrances to a 3+ car garage with a 4th door at the back, plus a covered porch at the front and a large deck offering your choice of sun or shade at any time of day, accessed via garden doors from either the spacious master bedroom or the bright eat-in kitchen.
The master bedroom has a large walk-in closet and an upgraded ensuite bath has a 5’ maple vanity with Corian counter, heated floor, and upgraded glass-doored shower. The second main floor bathroom is also beautifully appointed with Corian and is adjacent to two sunny, spacious bedrooms with large closets.
Since your home is your sanctuary as well as one of life’s largest investments, be sure to consider quality of light, warmth, flow and efficiency when deciding which property should top your list
Distressed walnut engineered flooring flows throughout the open concept living and dining areas and glows in the light of the gorgeous gas fireplace with a pristine pine mantel. A marvelous maple kitchen is a real “wow” with raised panel doors in cherry finish, under counter lighting, glass tile backsplash, large island, breakfast nook and stainless steel appliances.
You’ll love the fully finished lower level! It’s just too fine – and fun – to call it a basement. Large media area wired for sound. Oak bar. Double-sided gas fireplace with stone surround. Games/rec area with pool table and custom upgraded lighting. Also, lucky family members or guests will enjoy the large lower level bedroom with a deluxe semi-ensuite bathroom with heated tiled floor to call their own.
Among many features in this home you’ll appreciate the fact that quality was paramount from beginning to end of the building process.
Windows, flooring, railings…where quality meets beauty, a soaring first impression at 3 Basswood Drive. Click the photo or linked text for the complete list of features and upgrades!
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this superbly located jumping off point for commuters heading out to Stayner, Barrie, CFB Borden and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA)….
View Larger Map
While viewing the map you may notice that from Basswood Drive you have an easy drive to the complete spectrum of golf, skiing, schools, shopping, services and entertainment in Wasaga Beach and Collingwood and a quick hop onto Sunnidale Road leading smoothly to all common commuter points. Nature trails abound, with the neighbourhood favourite being the loop trail that skirts McIntyre Creek, perfect for your choice of silent sports no matter what the season. If you love the water, peaceful nature trails, hiking, biking and living in a location that is a bit set apart yet intrinsic to the the small town feel of beautiful Wasaga Beach, Ontario, you’ll love this area! The images below (used with permission) were captured by local Collingwood photographer Diane Hammond in the Sunset Point and Collingwood Harbour areas this year. See more of her wonderful photos at http://dibytes.ca
Intrigued? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling while enjoying the proximity to sunsets and soft Georgian Bay breezes or, right outside your door, McIntyre Creek’s trails for fresh air and connecting to nature. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.
Please see MLS# 20131685 for another view of this fine property.
You will want to take a closer look at this 4 bedroom, 3 bath high-efficiency home on a huge (90` x 200`) lot. Inside you`ll appreciate the freshly-painted, open concept floor plan featuring a Maple kitchen with lots of counter space and storage, upgraded lighting and all stainless steel appliances. The master bedroom has a large walk-in closet and ensuite bath and the dining area features garden doors leading to a generous 26` x 14` rear deck, skirted with privacy fencing and looking out onto a large private back yard. Including all the finished space in the basement you have 2,100 sq.ft. of easy living (1,100 sq.ft.on main floor). The low energy bills are a reflection of the highly efficient furnace, the basement floor being fully equipped with radiant in-floor heating and the HRV air system.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this superbly located jumping off point for commuters heading out to Collingwood, Blue Mountain, Thornbury, Meaford, or the other way to Wasaga Beach, Stayner, Barrie and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA)…. View Larger Map
While viewing the map you may notice that from Broadview Street you have an easy drive to the complete spectrum of golf, skiing, schools, shopping, services and entertainment in Wasaga Beach and Collingwood via Beachwood Drive and a quick hop onto the new Highway 26 bypass leading smoothly to all common commuter points.
Intrigued? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling while enjoying the proximity to sunsets and soft Georgian Bay breezes. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.
Homeowners, contact Bruce to learn how his services help you list and sell faster and for more equity return.
that the perfect location AND the perfect layout become available. Nestled in mature trees in a quiet yet super-convenient neighbourhood of lovely homes, this ranch bungalow is sure to meet your needs and then some. If initially the ranch bungalow idea strikes you as a bit dated, this model reminds you that the ranch design and layout has had staying power for good reason! And here at 52 Arnill Crescent, the colours, finishes and updates make a successful marriage of classic and modern. You’ll have fun imagining your favourite furnishings – and family members – fitting in perfectly here.
A large, sunny living room welcomes you inside with a view of the fireplace and its modern mantle flanked by large bay windows. The view here, as everywhere throughout the house, is filled with evergreens, sun and sky.
The Master bedroom is more than large enough for a King set and has two large updated closets. In fact, everywhere you turn you’ll find an upgrade or update worth your admiring gaze.
There are pleasant surprises of high quality upgrades to note throughout this feature-rich home
Highlights of this west-end Wasaga Beach wonder include:
2 large bedrooms on the main floor, 2 super spacious bedrooms downstairs
Super private, fully fenced double lot
Located in a very desireable area of Wasaga Beach close to all amenities and walking distance to Worsley Elementary School
All-brick, low-maintenance home
Finished basement with 2 separate entrances make it a possible in-law suite
Second kitchen in basement adjacent to huge family rec room
2 full bathrooms and one half-bath off the mud room area, all tastefully updated
3 gas fireplaecs add charm plus easily heat the entire home (2,700 sq.ft.total)
Paved double driveway with inside entry from the garage
Just one kilometre between your walking or riding feet to the Wasaga Beach RecPlex and the Superstore
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this easy-access western Wasaga Beach, Ontario neighbourhood: close to Wasaga Beach Provincial Park’s Beach Area 6, the RecPlex, grocery store, shopping and restaurants, and a very easy hop to the new Highway 26, which is one of the main arteries of the area and leads to Collingwood and Blue Mountain in no time. View Larger Map
Interested? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling at 31 – 62nd Street North in Wasaga Beach, Ontario. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.Share
and the perfect location AND the perfect layout become available. If living just steps from Collingwood`s Sunset Point in a ground-floor 2 bedroom condo sounds appealing, you may have just found your next home. A gas fireplace welcomes you into this spacious 1,063 sq.ft. unit with no stairs. The Master bedroom has a semi-ensuite bathroom and everywhere you turn you’ll find a large closet or storage area. This condo is among the finest examples you’ll find in Collingwood of move-in-and-relax, affordable, easy living. The lifestyle options are extraordinary for all ages and stages for recreation and even commuters and frequent travellers will appreciate what this location has to offer. Hardwood flooring abounds throughout and the soft, neutral colours make it easy to personalise with your choice of art, textiles and accessories. Lastly, abundant natural light and a surprising lack of traffic noise make this hidden gem worth your admiring gaze.
A casually elegant gas fireplace invites you to relax and unwind the second you walk in the door
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this superbly located Sunset Point perch in Collingwood, Ontario: close to gorgeous Georgian Bay at one of the most appreciated parks of the area, shopping and restaurants, within a minute or two from Collingwood General and Marine Hospital and a quick hop to the new Highway 26 bypass which is one of the main arteries that leads to Wasaga Beach, Stayner, Barrie, CFB Borden and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA).
If you love the water, you’ll love this area! The images below (used with permission) were captured by local Collingwood photographer Diane Hammond in the Sunset Point and Collingwood Harbour areas this year. See more of her wonderful photos at http://dibytes.ca
Intrigued? Carve out a couple of hours soon to let Bruce show you the magic of the area.Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling while enjoying the sunsets and soft Georgian Bay breezes at 31 Raglan Street in beautiful Collingwood, Ontario. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.
And as long as you’re in the information-gathering stage….
Receive the latest local real estate updates soon after the data is released.The Home Hunt Market Report is released monthly and another one of Bruce’s clients’ favourite services. If you wish to remain anonymous as you begin your search, feel free to just add your email address then click the below Subscribe button. Although only an email address is required, adding your name and address and a bit about yourself helps Bruce to respond to your needs. Simply leave the box blank and click the Subscribe button below. This will bring you to a more complete form.
Note on Privacy: You start the conversation, yet your privacy is always paramount. Bruce forges strongest relationships in an atmosphere of mutual trust and has earned a reputation of integrity and commitment to those clients that are ready to move forward with their homebuying dreams and life goals. Any information you enter here is completely confidential and will never be shared with any other person or list.
This fantastic family home with 5 bedrooms and 2 baths on well-established and centrally-located Dyer Drive is close to Birchview elementary school, east-end Wasaga Beach shopping, restaurants and services, Blueberry Trails, golfing and the world’s longest freshwater beach. With over 1,960 square feet of finished living space (1,007 on main floor) there`s plenty of space for your family.
The kitchen is one of the most alluring aspects of this warm and wonderful Wasaga Beach family home
Hardwood flooring abounds on the main floor and the kitchen is inviting with plenty of cabinet and counter space, a modern backsplash and new garden doors letting in beautiful light. There are 2 bedrooms on the main level (Master bedroom has two large separate closets), a full bathroom up and another spacious 4-pc bath downstairs. The large open concept floor plan with its generous front living room is a pleasure to show and can easily be configured to include a separate dining area. The fully finished lower level has an additional 3 bedrooms (the first is shown as a comfy family/rec room but with its 2 large closets would also function as a bedroom measuring a whopping 17′ x 10′). This property also offers a fully-fenced rear yard with a 2-tiered deck for outdoor dining and entertaining. An above-ground pool is included but the seller will remove if requested.
Much of the home has been freshly painted in a serene designer palette, allowing for ultimate flexibility in room function. Last but not least, the lucky new owners will appreciate the central air, central vac and the newer York furnace which is still under warranty.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this easy-access east-end Wasaga Beach, Ontario neighbourhood: close to one of the most desired schools of the area, shopping and restaurants, and a very easy hop to River Road West, which is one of the main arteries that leads to Elmvale, Barrie, CFB Borden and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA).
Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling at family-friendly 206 Dyer Drive in Wasaga Beach, Ontario. Open the next page in the scrapbook of your best life memories…the home hunt starts here.
The stats are in from November so I wanted to take a moment to show you what’s happening in the ever-changing local real estate world. Rather than just throw you the raw data provided by the Georgian Triangle Real Estate Board, I process the numbers, produce visual charts and provide explanations to assist in your real estate important decisions. To use a holiday analogy, it’s like you’re getting the cookie instead of the dough!
If you or any of your friends or family are considering a move, I offer a free comparative market analysis showing you what homes are for sale now, what homes have sold recently and how long homes are taking to sell in your neighbourhood. When you get that, you can feel secure in the knowledge that you have the most accurate information that will tell you right away how YOUR market is and whether relocating is in your best interests, all things considered.
Also, Mary continues to enjoy offering FREE home staging and colour consultations to my seller AND buyer clients. Mary’s “Staging for Living” services help new homeowners in choosing the right colours to express their personal style as well as placing furniture and art so they feel “at home” more quickly. Whether it’s a question about feng shui, colour meaning, the right tone for the front door or the right countertop for the bathroom renovation, as my client you are welcome to email Mary for advice.
Want a deeper look at current AND past data? Click the graph below.
Please don’t hesitate to drop a line anytime to stay in touch. We connect socially via Facebook and Twitter and we text, email and update Bruce’s Blog at www.thehomehunt.com, but sometimes it’s nice to make that personal connection and hear from you, too.
Bruce is never more than an email or call away from answering any questions you may have and truly delights in getting caught up with the latest happenings in your life!
Just Breathe
The shortest day of the year is fast approaching and with it the hoopla of the holidays nears its peak. If you’ve been on our mailing list over the years or recently requested to be added, the 2013 Calendar is headed your way. Anybody else find the calendar pages flying by too fast? I recently read that the #1 antidote to stress at this time of year is something we do anyway…breathing. The key though is to consciously breathe deep into your belly and fully exhale. Giving yourself this gift has an instantly calming effect, good for you and those around you. All together now…. 🙂
We wish you a very happy holiday season and all the very best as you celebrate the start of another year!
The Main Street Pedestrian Mall a few months before being destroyed by fire in 2007.
For quite some time now, residents and visitors alike have bemoaned the lack of a vibrant, attractive public space on Wasaga Beach’s Main Street. And so, this Thursday, November 29, 2012, citizens, community leaders, and municipal staff of Wasaga Beach will come together to participate in a public workshop to discuss the possibility of creating a public event space around the Main Street Pedestrian Mall at Beach Area One.
What: Main Street Pedestrian Mall Visioning Project
Who: Hosted by 8-80 Cities, for anyone with an interest in public space and transforming the Main Street Pedestrian Mall into a more vibrant and healthier place
When: Thursday, November 29, 2012, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Banquet Hall, Wasaga Stars Arena, 425 River Road West, Wasaga Beach, ON
Strong winds after 1 a.m. contributed to the devastation
The timing of this visioning process is appropriate, as it was 5 years ago, on November 30, 2007, that a major fire destroyed between 50 to 70% of the main street pedestrian mall, including 17 businesses and 5 apartments. The fire was fuelled by very strong winds, eventually turning it into one of the biggest and most disastrous fires ever in Wasaga Beach history.
One of the previous visions for tourism at Wasaga Beach’s main end
Plans to rebuild the beach front included shopping, an indoor/outdoor theme park and monorail service.
Despite the major fire, the beach and the remaining businesses reopened the following summer, though the residents and visitors of Wasaga Beach commented that the old arcade and various dingy shops would be thoroughly missed and media reports labelled the event “the end of an era“.
The proposed development came to an abrupt end when the Blue Beach Corporation declared bankruptcy in 2010. The Town of Wasaga Beach worked out a plan to help the remaining businesses open for the season but the plans for hotels, theme parks and a monorail all ended and have not been revived.
Out of the fiery destruction of all those “historic” shops must come something inspired! Such was the impetus for the upcoming Pedestrian Mall visioning project, a workshop where participants will brainstorm around the question: How can we create a vibrant pedestrian space at Beach Area One?
In 2011, the Wasaga Beach community determined that one of the key principles to revitalization of the Main Beach Area was the establishment of a public square which could be used year-round as a gathering place and to program special community events. The Town was successful in receiving a grant through the “Make a Place for People” project, which is an Ontario Trillium Fund program administered through 8-80 Cities, a non-profit group that promotes active transportation and vibrant public spaces, and will be facilitating the workshop.
The purpose of the program is to lead the community in a design and visioning process on a smaller scale to create a vibrant and healthy public space at Beach Area One at the Main Street Pedestrian Mall. Anyone with an interest in public space and transforming the Main Street Pedestrian Mall into a more vibrant and healthier place is encouraged to come out to the public workshop, which will run from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Thursday, November 29, 2012 and be held at the Banquet Hall, Wasaga Stars Arena, 425 River Road West.
For more information, please contact Nathan Wukasch, Planner, Town of Wasaga Beach at (705) 429-3847 or email nwukasch@wasagabeach.com
This beautiful 3 bedroom home with 2 full bathrooms on a quiet cul de sac of Dyer Drive is in move-in condition.
This home has been freshly painted in a serene designer palette and features new windows, a large master bedroom plus second bedroom or office on main floor, custom built-in shelving and another spacious bedroom in the finished basement, bringing total living space to over 1,700 sq.ft.
Enjoy the easy life here! The eat-in kitchen has a walkout to a deck overlooking a private stone patio, and the pressed-concrete walkways and paved driveway to the single-car garage complete the picture of a much sought-after low-maintenance lifestyle.
Book your showing soon let Bruce show you how and where to “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the rest of 2012 and beyond.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this well-established neighbourhood.
143 Dyer Drive in beautiful Wasaga Beach
Dyer Drive is close to Birchview Dunes Elementary School, the Wasaga Beach Public Library and Blueberry Trails for unwinding among the pines on foot, bicycle or cross country skis. The location is also convenient to the vibrant and ever-growing Stonebridge shopping/dining centre and an easy jaunt to the main Beach Areas and a very easy hop onto either of the main arteries that lead to Barrie, Base Borden, Georgian Bay, Collingwood, Blue Mountain, and world-class golf courses, marinas and ski hills, ensuring your real estate investment will be a wise one for building equity in the years to come.
This fantastic family home is located on a tree-lined, centrally-located yet quiet street and is close to Collingwood’s excellent schools, the Curling Club, YMCA, shopping and trails.
This lovely 1,305 sq.ft. brick bungalow offers a pool and a private backyard. With 3 bedrooms on the main level and one in the lower level, this home can easily accomodate a growing family. Recent updates include new windows, shingles, kitchen cabinets and lighting, basement flooring, new drywall, all freshly painted in a soft, designer palette. Plenty of storage including a pool house, a large shed and a spacious workshop area to fill your imagination with all of the possibilities (“man-cave” and more). There is also potential for a home office or second bedroom downstairs.
You’ll love having two walkouts to the large multi-tiered rear deck overlooking your fully fenced pool and gardens. Book your showing soon and “Live…Where Others Vacation” for the rest of 2012 and beyond.
Then, zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this wonderful neighbourhood: close to three of the most desired schools of the area, multi-use trails, shopping and restaurants, and a very easy hop onto either of the main arteries that lead to Georgian Bay, Wasaga Beach, and world-class golf courses, marinas and ski hills.
This all-brick home is quite possibly the one you’ve been waiting for in the coveted McKean subdivision, close to the well-respected Nottawa Elementary School, Georgian College’s Collingwood campus and the complete spectrum of shopping, services and entertainment in Collingwood and Blue Mountain.
Beautifully decorated and freshly painted, this 1,850 sq.ft. home (3,698 sq.ft. fully finished) features a stunning new kitchen with a walk-out to the back deck, two gas fireplaces (one is the centrepiece of a “Muskoka” family room in the basement), pristine red oak hardwood flooring, 3 bedrooms on the main level and 4 bathrooms (one is a 4-pc. ensuite).
You`ll love the cedar sauna! Also, you have the option of making the large downstairs bedroom your master suite, guest retreat, huge home office or music studio.
Among many improvements and added features in this home you’ll appreciate the large backup natural gas generator system for peace of mind.
Get that lucky to “Live…Where Others Vacation” feeling on the pristine deck with the custom, UV-protected pergola overlooking your private backyard. An unbeatable stay-cation in all seasons, the large lot at 9 McKean Blvd offers lush yet easy-maintenance landscaping, mature trees, an inspiring flagstone-skirted bonfire area, and serene corners to relax and unwind.
First, as you go through the photos, imagine life in this happy, peaceful, warmly-appointed home with its fully-finished basement and ultra-organized, attached two-car garage.
Zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s not far from this corner of Collingwood, Ontario known as McKean Subdivision of Nottawa: close to one of the most desired schools of the area, shopping and restaurants, and a very easy hop onto the main arteries that lead to Stayner, Wasaga Beach, CFB Borden and beyond (1.5 hours to the GTA).
The stats are in and have been through my graphical mill to churn out the answer to that ubiquitous question: How’s the Market?
To bring you an easily-understood analysis of what’s happening in the ever-changing local real estate world, I process the numerical data provided by the Georgian Triangle Real Estate Board and provide formulas and explanations to assist in your important decisions.
Have you ever asked a Realtor “How’s the market?” and been told nothing much more than “Great”? That Realtor most likely wanted you to get the impression that he or she was doing well, in demand, and thus a “great” choice in a Realtor.
In 15+ years of real estate sales in the area, I’ve learned that what you want to know has nothing to do with how that Realtor is personally doing in business.
The right answer to the “How’s the Market” question depends not only on whether you are thinking of selling or buying but also on where exactly you live in town.
If you are considering a move, I offer a free comparativemarket analysis showing you what homes are for sale now, what homes have sold recently and how long homes are taking to sell in your neighbourhood. When you get that, you can feel secure in the knowledge that you have the most accurate information that will tell you right away how YOUR market is and whether relocating is in your best interests, all things considered.
Whether you were lyin’ on a dock sippin from a coconut or not, there’s no denying it was an amazing weather-weekend in Wasaga Beach. From the looks of the Wasaga Beach forecast for the week, Mother Nature really got her timing right for long-weekend revelers. Although it’s back to work for most today, keep those summer vibe moments in your soul with Walk Off the Earth’s latest release.
CHORUS:
With you by my side
A Cadillac ride
Jammin w/the boys – Bonfire at night
Summer vibe
Looking for a summer vibe
I paid my dues got nothing to prove
Laying on the dock just talking to you
Summer vibe
Looking for a summer vibe
I’m Jonesing for a good time, hitting beaches all down the coast, I’ll find a place to post
Gonna somehow, find a luau, dance this old night away
I’m drinking something blue from a coconut, music all up in the place, under the moonlight
….Taking my time
And the sun goes down
But it’ll rise again tomorrow
Oh…
EH-O, EH-O, EH-O BOP BOP AWAY-O
Listed at $419,800, this 2,685 sq.ft. home or cottagecould be the Wasaga Beach dream castle you’ve been looking for…and it’s NOT made of sand!
Located close to New Wasaga Beach on a quiet cul de sac, this all stone and brick home has 3 large bedrooms (master has a huge walk-in closet) and 4 bathrooms. The vaulted ceilings are absolutely inspired, and a calming cedar-lined sauna room adjoins a spa/hot tub area in a unique turreted corner.
Features include a whole-house HRV air exchange system, central air, central vac, instant hot water, full monitored security system, Canac kitchen (awaiting your finishing touches), potlights and a large 3 bay (2 door) attached garage.
The unfinished basement gives you an ADDITIONAL 1,960 sq.ft. and the garage another approx. 720 sq.ft.
All of the bedrooms have walk-outs to the huge, private rear deck.
Yes some finishing still needs to be done but this jewel in the crown of the world’s largest freshwater beach may be exactly what you’ve always wanted; a new home without the contruction headaches and costs, and without the need to un-do someone else’s personal touches and finishes. If you know this area you know that 1) Residents LOVE the location and 2) This kind of investment is a rare opportunity in this highly sought-after area of Wasaga Beach.
Zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s close: the soft sands of Blue Flag-awarded Wasaga Beach, east-end shopping and restaurants, the Wasaga Arena, and a relatively easy hop onto the main arteries that lead to Elmvale, Barrie, CFB Borden and beyond.
Offered at $559,800, this is waterfront living at its finest in amenity-rich Blue Shores including clubhouse, swimming pools, fitness & games centre and private harbour. Exceptional 2,690 sq. ft. (4,560 total finished sq. ft.) 5 bdrm, 5 bath bungalow loft Lighthouse model was designed to make homeowners feel the pull of the shimmering water from the back porch to stroll on the adjoining walking trails.
Natural light is often enough in this sky-lit loft featuring 2 additional bdrms & bath
Uniquely vaulted ceilings in great room provide a sunlit view to the lofted 2nd floor leading to two additional bedrooms and another full bath.
The main floor master bedroom suite features a jaw-dropping water view, walk-in closet and ensuite with a jetted tub.
The main floor also features a gas fireplace and a second large bedroom with ensuite bath plus a convenient laundry area adjacent to inside entry to the double-car garage.
The kitchen has a breakfast bar and a walkout from the breakfast nook to the covered rear porch.
The finished basement includes media/rec areas, spacious bedroom, home office and much more.
Sparkling views of Georgian Bay from your Master bedroom
Here at Blue Shores, the ease of living and the waterfront beauty that surrounds you is a constant reminder of how lucky you are to live where others vacation!
Zoom in on the map below, get directions, see what’s close: the Collingwood Harbour, grocery stores, the Collingwood G&M Hospital, schools, shopping, skiing and golfing are all mere minutes from your door.
May 2012 Georgian Triangle Real Estate Board Statistics
HOT OFF THE PRESS!
This is just one of many visually instructive, hand-crafted charts that Bruce provides to Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and surrounding area residents every month. Click here or on the image to see the entire report. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact Bruce.
Welcome to Bruce’s Blog. TheHomeHunt was first a catchy domain name, then an e-newsletter that had evolved from a printed newsletter called Window on Wasaga (WOW), and is again undergoing a transformation. This serves Bruce’s clients by offering access to up-to-date information across they many platforms available today whether you use a mobile device, a home pc or any web browser on a public computer. This blog and indeed this website is constantly morphing and improving so please come back often and share with others. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
The vaulted ceilings are absolutely inspired, and a calming cedar-lined sauna room adjoins a spa/hot tub area in a unique turreted corner.
