Week in review: Real Estate Market Watch and Update (September 15-September 21 2025) Peterborough and Haliburton

Real Estate Market Brief September 22nd, 2025 Edition 

Peterborough and Haliburton

(September 15th-September 21st,  2025)

www.bradsinclair.ca

 Peterborough (Non-Waterfront)

# of New listings-106

# of Active Listings-300+

# of Conditionally Sold-66

# of Sold-31

Average Sale Price-$604,601

Average List Price of Sold Listings-$619,961

Average Days on Market-47

Peterborough (Waterfront)

# of New listings: 16

# of Active Listings-294

# of Conditionally Sold-9

# of Sold-5

Average Sale Price-$1,035,600

Average List Price of Sold Listings-$1,094,660

Average Days on Market-63

Haliburton (Non-Waterfront)

# of New listings-19

# of Active Listings-237

# of Conditionally Sold-12

# of Sold-7

Average Sale Price-$384,214

Average List Price of Sold Listings-$413,557

Average Days on Market-54

Haliburton (Waterfront)

# of New listings-14

# of Active Listings-251

# of Conditionally Sold-8

# of Sold-5

Average Sale Price-$746,000

Average List Price of Sold Listings: $825,380

Average Days on Market-68

Summary of the Numbers!

My Thoughts

The key takeaways from the real estate data are:

• In Peterborough non-waterfront:

  • The number of new listings increased from 90 to 106.
  • The number of sold properties increased slightly from 29 to 31.
  • The average sale price decreased from $641,924 to $604,601.
  • The average days on market increased from 30 to 47.

  In Peterborough waterfront:

  • The number of new listings decreased from 22 to 16.
  • The number of sold properties decreased from 9 to 5.
  • The average sale price increased significantly from $654,222 to $1,035,600.
  • The average days on market increased from 48 to 63.

  In Haliburton non-waterfront: 

  • The number of new listings increased from 13 to 19.
  • The number of sold properties decreased from 9 to 7.
  • The average sale price decreased from $475,444 to $384,214.
  • The average days on market remained the same at 54.

  In Haliburton waterfront:

  • The number of new listings decreased from 19 to 14. 
  • The number of sold properties decreased from 8 to 5.
  • The average sale price decreased from $812,450 to $746,000.
  • The average days on market increased from 38 to 68.

  The key changes seem to be a drop in Peterborough waterfront sales but a significant increase in average price, along with a general decrease in sales and prices in the Haliburton market compared to the previous week.

In the News:

Need the numbers on your property? Contact me, and I will provide you with a free evaluation at no cost or obligation.

Brought to you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Not intended to solicit clients under contract 

Cottage Living: The Evolving Trend Towards a More Balanced Life

"Cottagecore is more than just a trend – it's a lifestyle. But what does the future hold for this idyllic way of life? Join us as we explore the latest trends in technology, sustainability, and more."

The rise of remote work and the desire for a more balanced life have fueled the trend of cottage living. Cottages are no longer just for summer getaways; they are becoming year-round homes for those seeking a quieter, more nature-connected lifestyle. This shift is evident in the increasing popularity of sustainable and energy-efficient cottage designs.

Smart homes are making cottages more comfortable and efficient, with automated lighting, heating, and security systems. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, is becoming increasingly common in cottage living. High-speed internet access is transforming cottages into remote workspaces, allowing people to connect with the world while enjoying the peace of nature.

Cottage living is increasingly associated with a desire for a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle. The rise of urban farming and food production techniques is influencing cottage gardens, with people growing their own produce and raising chickens. The focus on reducing environmental impact is evident in the use of eco-friendly materials and practices in cottage construction and renovation.

Cottage living fosters a strong sense of community among residents, creating opportunities for social interaction and shared experiences. Community gardens, farmers markets, and shared workshops are common features in cottage communities, promoting collaboration and connection. The rise of online platforms and social media groups dedicated to cottage living is connecting individuals and fostering a sense of belonging.

Cottages are evolving into more adaptable and flexible spaces, catering to the needs of a diverse range of people. The future of cottage living is likely to be characterized by innovative design, smart technology, and a deep connection to nature. As the world increasingly embraces a sustainable and mindful way of life, cottage living is poised to become an even more appealing and desirable option for those seeking a different kind of life.

As cottages continue to evolve, the future of this lifestyle is poised to become even more appealing and desirable. With innovative design, smart technology, and a deep connection to nature, cottage living is set to offer a refreshing alternative for those seeking a more balanced and sustainable way of life.

Brought to you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Not intended to solicit clients under contract 

Understanding Shoreline Road Allowances: A guide for a waterfront property owners or prospective buyers.

 

What You Need to Know About Shoreline Road Allowances in Ontario

If you own property near a lake or river in Ontario, you may have heard about the "shoreline road allowance" (SRA) before. But what exactly is an SRA, and how does it impact waterfront property owners?

In the late 19th century, the Crown (the government) instructed its surveyors to lay out 66-foot road allowances along the banks of lakes and rivers in Ontario. These road allowances were originally used for commercial purposes like logging and transporting goods. However, over time, they became less important for commercial transportation.

As a result, the Crown eventually transferred ownership of the SRAs to the individual municipalities where the lakes and rivers were located. Today, most SRAs are publicly owned by the local municipality.

Over the years, some property owners have been allowed to purchase the SRA adjacent to their land from the municipality for exclusive use. However, not all property owners have taken advantage of this opportunity. Municipalities also may not have consistently enforced rules around the use of SRAs in the past, leading to some cottages, boathouses, and docks being built on these publicly owned SRAs.

However, this situation has changed in recent years, with municipalities enforcing rules and environmental regulations more strictly around using SRAs. This can lead to problems for property owners who do not own the SRA adjacent to their land. On the other hand, if you own the SRA, you generally have fewer restrictions on how to use and build on that land.

Even if you don't own the SRA, you may still have "riparian rights" - the legal rights of property owners whose land abuts a body of water. This means you could potentially still build a dock or use the shoreline, albeit with the proper permits from the municipality.

The rules and processes around SRAs can vary significantly between different municipalities. Some municipalities may limit the number of SRAs they will sell to property owners each year, while others are more open to these sales. It's essential for anyone interested in an SRA adjacent to their property to research the specific policies and procedures in their local area.

This nuanced understanding of SRAs is not always known by all real estate agents, especially those in the GTA who may be less familiar with these types of rural/cottage country properties.  This lack of comprehensive knowledge can lead to misinformation or oversight regarding properties with shoreline road allowances.

As a result, property buyers and sellers should carefully investigate the status and ownership of any SRA associated with a lakefront or riverfront property rather than rely solely on the advice of their real estate agent. Consulting with the local municipal planning department or a real estate lawyer specializing in waterfront properties can help ensure all the relevant details around the SRA are understood before proceeding with a transaction.

Brought for you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Not intended to solicit clients under contract 

Cottages are coming up for sale at great value. Here is two of them!

53 LONG ISLAND Otonabee-South Monaghan, Ontario K0L1B0

MLS® Number: X12127545

Spring is Here-time for cottage season to begin! Enjoy this extensively renovated island cottage on Long Island, Rice Lake. This fully insulated cottage features new windows and a main door. New siding, soffits, fascia and eaves. Put your mind at ease knowing there is a new steel roof on the front and 5-year-old shingles on the rear plus a new steel roof on the shed. Indoors, you will find a new, freshly installed kitchen just waiting for its first family gathering. The fresh bathroom offers a new vanity and light fixture. As you enter the cottage, the new wood wall coverings add a welcoming pine smell. The new subfloor and flooring provide easy maintenance and durable living space. A new ductless heat pump and baseboards help to keep the cold at bay. Throughout the cottage, there are new switches and plugs and light fixtures. The property has a spacious rear yard with space for the children to play. The property is just a few minute's boat ride from the mainland which will allow you to be relaxing on the dock in no time. Just 90 minutes from the GTA, Rice Lake is known for it's spectacular fishing, boating and family friendly atmosphere.

More info and photos:

https://www.realtor.ca/real-estate/28267300/53-long-island-otonabee-south-monaghan-otonabee-south-monaghan

837 Fife's Bay Marina Lane, Chemong Lake

MLS® Number: X12140866

This charming cottage sits on the shores of Chemong Lake. Offering 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and spectacular views this cottage makes the ideal getaway. The bright, spacious open kitchen, dining and living areas are perfect for staying connected with family and friends. Walk out to the deck from the dining area to enjoy a morning coffee or share a meal. 2 bedrooms in the main cottage and a bar in the bunkie there is plenty of room for the kids or guests and entertaining. In just a few steps you are at the lakeside where you can enjoy all the watersports or a quick dip. Chemong Lake is part of the tri-lake chain (Chemong Lake, Pigeon Lake and Buckhorn Lake) as well as the Trent Severn Waterway ideal for boaters and those who enjoy fishing. A quick drive or boat ride you can be eating at local restaurants, shopping or savouring a delicious ice cream cone or cold drink. Situated in a quiet area, just a short distance from Highway 7, City of Peterborough and quaint Village of Bridgenorth you have all the amenities and conveniences without sacrificing the quiet cottage feel.

More info and photos:

 https://www.realtor.ca/real-estate/28296321/837-fifes-bay-marina-lane-selwyn-selwyn

Brought for you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Not intended to solicit clients under contract 

Hiring a Local Agent is Key When Selling/Buying Rural Property

 

Not everyone can sell rural real estate. Find out what you don’t know.

This week, I showed a vacant parcel of land in the rural Haliburton area. An agent from downtown Toronto listed the property, but they had never even seen the property in person. They didn't even know there was an old house on the land, even though it was in poor condition.

This raises serious questions about the Agent's fiduciary duties and whether they truly represent the seller's best interests. Why would a seller list their property with an agent who doesn't know the area or even the property itself?

Unfortunately, some agents may be willing to take on listings for properties they know nothing about; they just need to complete the paperwork and fire it onto the MLS. While this may be easy and profitable for the Agent, it's not in the seller's best interest.

As a local agent in the Peterborough/Hastings area, I have access to the same MLS data as big city agents. The key difference is my intimate knowledge of the local market and properties. This allows me to properly market and show the property to qualified buyers who are a good fit.

If a seller lists with an agent who lacks this crucial local expertise, they are likely missing out on potential buyers and may struggle to get the best price for their property. Hiring a local agent who knows the area inside and out is crucial when selling rural or specialty properties.

Hiring a local agent also ensures the property is priced appropriately based on recent comparable sales and crucial market knowledge. Out-of-town agents may struggle to accurately value rural properties. Local experts can identify unique features that impact the price. Furthermore, a nearby agent can easily coordinate viewings, liaise with potential buyers, and provide hands-on support throughout the selling process. This local expertise and availability is invaluable when selling rural real estate.

As a rural agent, I have full access to the big city MLS. The access swings both ways. The big city agent now has full access to the rural market, which temps them to represent Buyers in areas they know nothing about. Where is the nearest hospital or fire hall? What services does the municipality offer? What does the waterfront look like in the summer? All things if you don't know about the area, the Buyer needs to be informed. If the Agent does not know either, fiduciary duties are not met. Local expertise allows the local Agent to highlight unique features and address potential buyers' concerns about rural living. 

In conclusion, when selling or buying a rural or specialty property, it is essential to hire a local real estate agent who is intimately familiar with the area. This local expertise allows the Agent to properly represent the Seller or Buyer, and provide hands-on support throughout the sales process. Sellers and Buyers who list with out-of-town agents who lack this local knowledge are at a significant disadvantage and may potentially make a huge mistake with the lack of local knowledge and information.

Brought for you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Why Won't My House/Property Sell?

Why Won't My Property Sell?

Ever driven by a home for sale for an extended period and wondered why no one has bought it yet? You may be worried that your own house won't sell when you go to list it.

There are several common reasons a house becomes hard to sell:

1. Overpricing

The number one reason a house is difficult to sell is an unrealistic asking price. Overpricing a home can scare away potential buyers. It's essential to price your home competitively based on recent comparable sales in the area. 

2. Poor Presentation

Your home isn't showing well to buyers. Poor staging, outdated decor, or a lack of curb appeal can make a home unappealing. Decluttering, deep cleaning, and minor cosmetic updates can help your home show its best.

3. Lack of Promotion

Your home may not be getting enough exposure to potential buyers. Proper promotion includes more than just a sign on your front lawn. Websites, digital ads, print ads, and open houses are valuable tools for promoting your home's listing.

4. Location or Condition Issues

Homes in undesirable locations or needing major repairs may struggle to attract buyers. Factors like noisy surroundings, flood risk, or outdated systems can be turnoffs for potential purchasers.

5. You need to give it time

If you researched the home's value, and your were provided a CMA report from your Realtor, the same CMA report will also give you an average days on the market to sell. Sometimes, it just takes time to sell. Use the average days on the market to provide you with a timeline to realistically give to sell the home. If it is well above the days on the market, relook at the numbers 1 to 4 above.

The Brad Sinclair Team has the Iguide system, a great tool for giving buyers a virtual look at your home before they book a showing. We also have a huge database of potential buyers and list our properties on the Toronto Real Estate Board and the Local Real Estate Board for more exposure. We also use digital marketing to get your listing in front of more eyes.

When you work with us, you can count on our team to leverage our extensive resources and expertise to get your property sold quickly and for the best possible price. Contact us today at 705-927-6236 to learn more about how we can take the stress out of selling your property.

Brought for you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Fishing on the Kawartha's

 

Fishing on the Kawartha's 

Summer is in full swing and warmer temperatures on the rise, this means it's time to get out on the lake for some fishing. If you are lucky enough to have a cottage on the Kawartha's you are probably already eager and excited to get out on the water. The best thing about fishing is that it's for everyone and doesn't take much to get into. You can either enjoy it from a boat with a huge variety of tackle and accessories, or it can be enjoyed from shore with a simple hook and worm. 

Fishing is very relaxing and can be so enjoyable if you love being on the lake. The Kawartha Lakes are home to many fish species such as Large and Smallmouth bass, Muskie, Pike, Walleye, Perch, and a variety of panfish. With so much space between all the lakes you can fish for days! Early mornings are best when fishing for Bass, this species likes to stay in cooler areas of the lake and weed beds. During the day fishing for walleye trolling over the weed beds during this time seems to work best on them. The feeding frenzy for these fish really starts in the evening. When fishing for Muskie early morning or late evening is best on these lakes. They typically go for gold and black color lurers and can be found in deeper weed beds. Panfish are perhaps the easiest of all the fish to find, they are excellent for introducing youngster to the joys of fishing. They take rapidly to a worm and hook and can easily be caught from shore.

If you don't own your own boat there are opportunities to charter fishing trips in the Kawartha's where the locals on the lake can take you to the best spots for fishing. You can also rent boats from some of the many resorts located in the Kawartha's if you'd like to go on your own. If you don't catch any fish there's always spectacular scenery and views easily found anywhere within the Kawartha's. Rest assured weather you are an avid fisherman or just wanting to get out on a weekend for fun, you are guaranteed to enjoy a fishing trip on the Kawartha lakes.                  

Brad Sinclair

Team Lead “The Brad Sinclair Team”

Sales Representative

Royal Heritage Realty, Brokerage

Visit my website! www.bradsinclair.ca

Call Or Text me 705-927-6236

Your Cottage Country Inside Source

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