Cottage Reflections

EXPERIENCE THE BUFFALO POINT OF VIEW | buffalopoint.ca | 204-437-2777 National Indigenous Award Winner Inspiring Indigenous Culinary OWN A CABIN ON LAKE OF THE WOODS! 15% Discount on ALL Available Lots! Lakefront Lots - fantastic value with lake views Treed Lots - affordability with plenty of privacy Focus on your dream - Below items included in price for ALL lots: Installed Septic Tank | Driveway | Tree Clearing "The nice thing is there is something for everyone in every budget category," he said. "Whether they are looking for an affordable back lot, remote get-away, year-round or seasonal cottage, or a waterfront home or cottage, there really is something for everyone. The most popular are year-round so they can be used during all four seasons." For Cheryl Demidiuk of EastShore Realty, she has noticed a few changes in the properties listed and sold this year compared to last year. "There are more lots for sale and a few more year-round homes, but quite a bit less seasonal homes," she said. "There are many buyers looking, but the selection for seasonal homes is not as great as one would like and, as such, they are moving quickly. People looking to relocate have a better selection. Selling prices are a little higher this year but not significant." It's too early to tell if new trends are developing, but buyers seem eager and optimistic, she added. "Although in the beginning of the pandemic the market was slower, it has picked up considerably," she said. "The public are ready to continue on with their lives and whatever the new reality may bring." Paul Duncan of Sigmar MacKenzie Real Estate said the pandemic doesn't seem to have affected cottage listings or prices in the Whiteshell. "When the pandemic started, we were thinking that the cottage sales industry would be flat for the next while; however, in fact, the spring market has been surprisingly busy," he said. "I think folks feel they will be staying close to home for the next couple of years and the Whiteshell Park is only an hour and half from the city, so it's an excellent way to spend recreational time." As long as buyers feel that cottages are fairly priced, Duncan expects they'll remain interested in making a purchase. "I have had several properties with multiple offers this spring. The sellers, who have generally owned the cottages for many years, are recognizing that sales are brisk. I'm getting many calls looking for current market values as they are considering putting their properties up for sale," he said. "We currently are looking for new listings to satisfy the number of anxious buyers ready to purchase. The $400,000 and under range is currently the most desirable purchase range; however, the Whiteshell also has properties worth well over $1 million that have changed hands." The Falcon Lake area has been particularly active this spring in sales, he added. "COVID-19 has sparked interest in the park, especially the hiking and biking trails, and the campgrounds have been very busy on the weekends," Duncan said. "This increased activity has more folks expressing interest in purchasing a cottage for their family in the area." In light of the pandemic, Duncan asks that all potential buyers ensure they are pre-qualified to purchase a property so that only serious buyers are entering cottages. "Potential purchasers have been very responsible and diligent with safety measures during showings, keeping close contact to a minimum," he said. "I carry a cell phone in one pocket and a package of sanitizing wipes in the other. They have become a new tool of the trade." SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | 03 Photo courtesy of Sun Country Realty. The cottage lifestyle continues to attract buyers to recreation areas across Manitoba. > C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 1 Photo courtesy of EastShore Realty. Broker Cheryl Demidiuk of EastShore Realty says many buyers are currently looking for seasonal homes. SPECIAL SECT ION

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