Tag: mls collingwood

Posted on

5 Reasons You’ll Want to Call Lora Bay Home

Lora Bay 18 Hole Championship Golf Course

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Georgian Bay, the Lora Bay community captures everything people love about living in Ontario’s beautiful Blue Mountains region — breathtaking scenery, vibrant social life, and a perfect balance of recreation and relaxation. Whether you’re searching for your dream home, a peaceful retirement spot, or a weekend escape, here are five reasons Lora Bay deserves to be at the top of your list.

Scenic Beauty That Inspires Every Day

Few places rival Lora Bay’s natural surroundings. Overlooking Georgian Bay and framed by the Niagara Escarpment, residents enjoy stunning views in every season — from summer sunsets over the water to snow-covered hills in winter. Outdoor enthusiasts love the easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and ski slopes just minutes away.

Golf, Dining & Recreation at Your Doorstep

At the heart of the community is the Lora Bay Golf Club, a championship 18-hole course co-designed by PGA pro Tom Lehman. The beautifully maintained fairways and the clubhouse restaurant create the perfect setting for both sport and social connection. Beyond golf, you’ll find nearby hiking, cycling, and skiing options, making it a true four-season lifestyle.

A Genuine Sense of Community

Lora Bay offers more than beautiful homes — it offers belonging. From yoga classes and book clubs to wine nights and neighborhood gatherings, residents enjoy an active and welcoming atmosphere that makes newcomers feel instantly at home.

Elegant Homes Designed for Modern Living

The homes in Lora Bay blend timeless architecture with contemporary comfort. Open-concept layouts, large windows, and upscale finishes make each home a retreat where you can unwind and entertain in style. Whether you prefer a bungalow, a custom build, or a townhome, the craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through. See what’s currently on MLS or explore what’s available for sale to find your perfect Lora Bay & surrounding area home.

Proximity to Thornbury & Blue Mountain

Just a short drive from Thornbury’s charming downtown, you’ll discover boutique shopping, local dining, and a relaxed small-town feel. Add the excitement of Blue Mountain Resort and the nearby ski clubs, and you have the perfect mix of tranquility and adventure.

Discover Lora Bay with Local Experts

If you’re considering making Lora Bay your home, it helps to have professionals who know the area inside and out. Kimberlee Diamond and Chassity Cook of The Georgian Realty Team have long been trusted names in the Blue Mountain and Thornbury real estate market, offering deep local insight, personalized service, and a passion for helping clients find the perfect fit in this exceptional community.

Posted on

Reimagining Collingwood’s Waterfront: Where History Meets Immersive Adventure

Step onto Collingwood’s waterfront and dive into an adventure like no other—without giving up this sacred space to another condo tower. Imagine an IMAX theatre that tosses you into the heart of the Great Lakes’ wild seas, letting adults and kids alike feel the thrill of life aboard a storm-tossed ship. From there, step into a living story where you experience a day in the life of the harbor’s historic vessels—loading cargo, navigating storms, and discovering the rhythm of life on the water. And for a touch of magic, walk across a glass floor to see colorful local fish and marine life swimming right beneath your feet. This is more than tourism—it’s a hands-on celebration of Collingwood’s history, nature, and community, turning the terminals into a place where visitors leave inspired, educated, and coming back for more.

Collingwood Terminals

Key Features:
1. Heritage & Maritime Museum

Interactive exhibits on Collingwood’s grain and shipping history.
Simulated grain loading/unloading experience.
Audio-visual storytelling of the workers, ships, and port life.

2. Observation & Learning Decks

Panoramic views of Georgian Bay from silo-top decks.
Educational plaques on local ecology, shipping, and history.
Telescope stations for birdwatching or stargazing in the evening.

3. Creative Arts & Culture Space

Artists’ studios and galleries within the terminals.
Outdoor projection art and light installations on silo walls.
Seasonal art fairs or interactive workshops for families and school groups.

4. Culinary & Craft Corner

Grain-inspired café or bakery featuring local products.
Cooking classes, baking workshops, and artisanal craft stalls.
Farm-to-table and heritage cooking events highlighting Collingwood’s local food.

5. Adventure & Outdoor Learning

Rope courses, climbing walls, or zip lines integrated safely with the structure.
Educational workshops on physics, engineering, and maritime logistics.
Seasonal weekend festivals, pop-up markets, or eco-learning days.

6. Community-Friendly Schedule

Open to visitors mainly during the day.
Evening events limited and controlled to reduce noise for residents.
Certain sections can “sleep” at night while residents enjoy quiet.

Benefits:
• Preserves a historic landmark and Collingwood’s identity.
• Attracts tourists and school groups, boosting local economy.
• Engages residents without overwhelming the neighborhood.
• Creates an iconic destination unique to Collingwood rather than just another condo project.


Am I the only one saddened by the newly proposed condo development at the terminals? Couldn’t we have thought outside the box? This space could be a living legacy, a place where history, adventure, and community meet—and a jewel for generations to treasure, not just another building to fill the skyline.

Perhaps I’m a dreamer, but I see a Collingwood waterfront where families laugh, history comes alive, and visitors leave with stories they’ll tell for years

Posted on

Expert Insights: Kimberlee Diamond on Today’s Real Estate Market

Meet Kimberlee Diamond 👋 she leads The Georgian Realty Team + chatted with SPACES (Collingwood Today Published September 15, 2025)) about the current state of the housing market. Here’s her expert analysis on real estate at the moment…

Q. What are you seeing in the real estate market right now? What the #$@% is happening?
What’s happening is the unstable economic conditions are bleeding into real estate — high interest rates, inflation, and shaky consumer confidence have buyers hesitating and sellers holding back. It’s making the market feel unpredictable and a bit chaotic.

Q. It’s a buyers’ market – what’s your advice for anyone thinking of listing their place this fall?
Price sharp, present it perfectly, and be prepared to negotiate — buyers have the upper hand this fall, so your home needs to stand out.

Q. For those looking to buy – what do you think they should know?
Buyers finally have leverage — more choice, room to negotiate, and less competition. But don’t drag your feet; well-priced homes still move fast.

Q. Do you feel optimistic about the fall housing market? What do you think needs to happen for real estate to bounce back?
I’m cautiously optimistic — if rates ease even a little and consumer confidence picks up, we’ll see more activity. For a real bounce back, we need stability in the economy and more balance between supply and demand.

Q. What’s the worst listing faux pas? What common feature are you seeing that prevents people from putting in an offer?
Overpricing — it kills momentum right out of the gate. A common deal-breaker I see is outdated or poorly maintained kitchens and bathrooms; buyers don’t want to take on a massive project right now.

Posted on

Sustainability vs Speed: What Buyers & Builders Must Weigh

A Collingwood Reflection

Ontario’s housing market is at a crossroads. With the provincial government pushing to accelerate construction through legislation like the More Homes Built Faster Act and the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, the goal is clear: get more homes on the market quickly to meet soaring demand. But speed comes at a price — and for many, the price is environmental sustainability.

The Push for Speed

Ontario has been grappling with a housing shortage for years, and rapid population growth, particularly through immigration, has only added to the pressure. To address this, the provincial government has taken steps to streamline approval processes, remove certain municipal zoning barriers, and incentivize developers to build quickly. Minister’s Zoning Orders (MZOs) have been used more frequently, allowing the province to fast‑track developments that might otherwise face lengthy delays at the municipal level.

For buyers, this should mean more options and potentially more affordable housing as supply increases. But critics argue that this rush to build can come at the expense of careful planning and community input.

The Case for Sustainability

At the same time, demand for environmentally conscious housing is growing. Today’s buyers — especially millennials and Gen Z entering the market — are increasingly asking about energy efficiency, green certifications, and carbon footprints. Sustainable building practices not only reduce environmental impact but can also lower long‑term costs for homeowners through better insulation, solar integration, and water conservation systems.

Environmental groups and some municipalities have voiced concern that provincial legislation overrides local green building standards, weakens protections for wetlands and green spaces, and could contribute to urban sprawl.

The Balancing Act

The challenge is clear: Ontario needs housing, but it also needs to build communities that will stand the test of time — environmentally, socially, and economically. A purely speed‑focused approach risks creating developments that may not meet future energy efficiency standards or that could strain local infrastructure.

For buyers, this means doing their homework. When considering a new home, ask questions about:

  • Energy efficiency ratings (e.g., EnerGuide or Energy Star)
  • Building materials and whether they are sustainably sourced
  • Access to public transit or active transportation infrastructure
  • Community planning — does the development include green space, walkability, and essential services?

A Way Forward

The ideal solution lies in finding a middle ground. Faster construction can coexist with sustainability if builders embrace innovative practices such as modular construction, net‑zero design, and low‑impact development techniques. Governments can encourage this by offering incentives for green building and by ensuring that streamlining processes do not compromise environmental protections.

Ontario’s housing future depends on both supply and sustainability. As buyers and builders, the choices made today will shape the communities of tomorrow — and the planet they sit on.

A Collingwood Reflection

In a place like Collingwood, where natural beauty is part of the town’s identity, this conversation feels especially personal. The escarpment, Georgian Bay, and surrounding trails remind us daily why preserving green space matters. Growth is coming — new subdivisions, condos, and commercial projects — but the challenge is to welcome that growth without losing what makes Collingwood special. Thoughtful planning, sustainable building, and respect for the natural landscape can ensure that Collingwood continues to be a place where both people and nature thrive for generations to come.

Posted on

HUGE Lot Collingwood! Spacious 3-Bedroom Detached Home Across from Georgian Bay

Are you searching for a home that combines size, location, and endless potential? Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom detached home, offering approximately 2,800 sq. ft. of bright and spacious living space. Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac and situated on a massive 109×165-ft corner lot, this home is located directly across from the breathtaking Georgian Bay—perfect for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking peace and privacy.

Prime Location with Outdoor Adventures at Your Doorstep

Located in a sought-after area, this home provides unparalleled access to nature trails, watersports, and endless outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or taking peaceful walks along the waterfront, this location has it all.

Spacious & Functional Layout

This home offers multi-generational living potential with a daylight basement featuring above-grade windows and a separate entrance, making it ideal for an in-law suite, rental income, or additional living space. The possibilities are endless!

Key Features You’ll Love:

✅ HUGE Family-Sized Eat-In Kitchen – The heart of the home, perfect for gatherings and entertaining. ✅ Dramatic Living Room – Soaring cathedral ceilings with 18-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, bathing the space in natural light. ✅ Glass-Enclosed 3-Season Sunroom – A relaxing retreat to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors year-round. ✅ Large Primary Suite – Includes a private 3-piece ensuite for added comfort. ✅ Classic Hardwood Floors – Timeless strip hardwood throughout the home. ✅ 19×13-ft Concrete Block Garage – Ideal for hobbyists, storage, or a workshop. ✅ Recent Upgrades – 6-year-new furnace & central air system, 2-year-old central vacuum, and a 200-amp electrical service. ✅ Roof Re-Shingled Approx. 10 Years Ago – A solid foundation for future updates and customization.

Endless Potential Awaits

While this home may require some updating, it provides an exceptional opportunity to make it your own. With its sprawling lot size, flexible layout, and unbeatable location, it’s the perfect canvas to create your dream home.

📞 Schedule Your Private Viewing Today! Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to own a home in one of the most desirable locations near Georgian Bay. Contact us now to book your showing and explore the possibilities! The Georgian Realty Team. Kimberlee Diamond 705-994-7117 and Chassity Cook 705-994-7127.

Posted on

Simcoe County Offers $30,000 Forgivable Loan For Secondary Suites Program

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are helping address the housing crisis in several ways:

  1. Supply: They add supply of housing to the market. Without extra land permits, many ADUs can be built, adding units without requiring new development of land.
  2. Cost: They tend to be cheaper per square foot than normal homes, so that more people with lower cash flows could afford some of them.
  3. Flexibility Benefits for Homeowners: ADUs can provide a homeowner with financial stability by bringing in rental income if they were to rent out the ADU to help them afford their primary.
  4. Reduction of Space Waste: Having an ADU allows us to make better use of home space in all contemporary communities (urban, suburban).
  5. Stability of Community: Offering more dwellings in existing neighbourhoods, ADUs can help communities stay stable, and prevent displacement due to property value escalation and competing opportunities for development.

In conclusion, although the article failed to locate a study that quantifies the actual increase in housing availability and affordability resulting from ADUs, we expect the increase to be significant, considering the high housing shortage in those US areas where they are operating (Suggested Paraphrase: Overall, ADUs are a great solution to address housing shortage problems, in a simple, useful and above all cost-effective way.)

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

If you are interested in participating in the Program to create a secondary or garden suite, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Own a property in the County of Simcoe
  • Creation of secondary or garden suite must comply with all municipal/building regulations
  • Property taxes and mortgage payments up-to-date
  • Insurance coverage for the full replacement value of the home
  • You must be a Canadian Citizen, Landed Immigrant, or have Refugee Claimant Status and have no deportation order under the Immigration Act (Canada) against any member of the household or no departure order or exclusion order under the Immigration Act (Canada) has become effective with respect to any member of the household
  • Not be in the process of applying for bankruptcy or have an active bankruptcy filed
  • Total of all mortgages and any other encumbrances registered on title, plus the Program funding, cannot exceed the market value of the home

RENTAL UNIT REQUIREMENTS • Rents must be at or below the Average Market Rent as established by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for a period of 15 years

  • Ingoing occupant(s) of the rental until must have a maximum household income below an amount as established by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
  • Annual reporting of rental amounts is required
  • Units must be modest in terms of floor space and amenities
  • The use of energy-saving products and/or systems are strongly encouraged

LOAN FORGIVENESS

To earn loan forgiveness, you must maintain continued ownership of the property and adhere to all terms and conditions of the Loan Agreement. Loans for the creation of secondary/garden suites are forgiven at an equal rate over a 15 year period.

LOAN REPAYMENT : PROGRAM DEFAULTS

If any of the following occur, you will be deemed to be in breach and we may terminate this

Source:

Paraphrased from the human-sounding input while retaining quotes and citations. outstanding loan amount must be repaid:

  • The transfer, lease or selling of the home
  • Information was misrepresented to the County of Simcoe at any given time during the process
  • The loan is used for a purpose other than the repairs outlined in the scope of work
  • Property taxes and/or mortgage payments are in default
  • Rents and tenancies for secondary/garden suites do not meet Program Guidelines
  • Property is no longer insured to its full replacement value

For more information on this program click here. https://simcoe.ca/residents/housing/affordable-housing-programs/#SecondarySuitesProgram

Posted on

Monaco Condominium Collingwood

In the Monaco condominium, residents enjoy a plethora of luxurious amenities. The moment you step into the grand and tastefully decorated residential lobby, you’ll feel a sense of arrival. Situated just a short distance from trendy shops and restaurants, the Monaco condominium building is surrounded by the year-round splendor of Southern Georgian Bay and the Blue Mountains.

The Monaco stands as a modern condominium project with six stories, 127 units & is located at the intersection of Hurontario St. and Hume St. Positioned in the heart of downtown Collingwood, this elegantly designed building includes such amenities as a rooftop retreat, rooftop party venue, fitness center, underground parking, storage locker facilities, bike racks, and retail spaces on the main floor.

Just a brief walk to the Gayety theatre, shops, the shipyard and numerous excellent dining establishments within our downtown core, make the Monaco an exceptional option for embracing your optimal lifestyle! Check out what is currently listed for sale at www.collingwoodmonaco.com and to book your personal viewing today. Indulge in the luxury lifestyle that awaits you!

Posted on

Want To Retire In Collingwood? Here’s 10 Reasons Why You Should!

Retiring in Collingwood, Ontario, Canada, or any location, depends on a variety of factors that are personal and unique to each individual. Collingwood is a popular destination for retirees due to its appealing qualities, but whether it’s the right place for you to retire depends on your preferences, priorities, and circumstances. Here are some potential reasons why some people might choose to retire in Collingwood:

  1. Natural Beauty: Collingwood is situated in a picturesque area near the shores of Georgian Bay and is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains and other natural attractions. If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports, Collingwood’s natural beauty could be a major draw. Check out the many trails & parks. Trails & Parks Collingwood Golf Courses Ski Resorts Recreation Programs

2. Recreational Activities: The region offers various recreational opportunities, including golfing, boating, fishing, and skiing in the winter months. If staying active and enjoying outdoor pursuits is important to you, Collingwood has a lot to offer.

3. Small-Town Charm: Collingwood has a small-town atmosphere that can be appealing to retirees looking for a slower pace of life. The community often fosters a sense of belonging and provides opportunities to get involved in local events and organizations.

4. Cultural and Artistic Scene: Despite being a smaller town, Collingwood often has a vibrant cultural and artistic scene. There are galleries, theaters, and festivals that can provide entertainment and enrichment for retirees who appreciate cultural activities. Collingwood is home to many fantastic restaurants offering the most delectable cuisine. Some of my favourite places to dine are:

5. Proximity to Toronto: Collingwood is relatively close to Toronto, which is about a two-hour drive away. This proximity allows retirees to access big-city amenities and services while still enjoying the benefits of living in a smaller community.

6. Healthcare Facilities: Collingwood has healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical clinics, to cater to the healthcare needs of its residents. Access to quality healthcare is often an important consideration for retirees.

7. Retirement Communities: There are retirement communities and senior living options in Collingwood that provide a range of housing and care services for older adults who want to be part of a community specifically designed for retirees. Real Estate: Depending on the housing market and your preferences, you might find a variety of housing options in Collingwood, from cozy cottages to modern condominiums. The real estate market can influence your decision to retire in a particular location. Homes for sale in Collingwood

8. Peaceful Lifestyle: Many retirees are drawn to the tranquility and peacefulness of Collingwood. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the serene environment could be a major benefit. Seniors are outside walking their dogs, bike riding and taking in the nature trails daily. A small town with a hip and upbeat vibe this town is a great option for retirees.

9. Golfing Opportunities: Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the various golf courses in and around Collingwood. The area’s scenic beauty adds to the charm of golfing in the region. While there are many golf courses in the area here are just a few on the list: Cranberry Golf Course, Monterra Golf Course in The Blue and Osler Brook Golf & Country Club/private

10. Friendly Community: Smaller towns often have tight-knit communities. Collingwood is known for its friendly residents, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The close-knit nature of Collingwood contributes to a sense of safety and security. Residents often feel comfortable and confident in their community, knowing that they are surrounded by familiar faces who look out for one another!

Ultimately, the decision to retire in Collingwood or any other location should be based on your personal preferences, needs, and circumstances. It’s recommended to visit the area, explore the community, and consider factors such as cost of living, climate, healthcare access, and proximity to family and friends before making a decision. Life is Collingwood is an awesome lifestyle choice for so many reasons!

Feel free to reach out to me at 705-994-7117 or via email at simcoerealtor@gmail.com for any of your community or real estate questions.

Posted on

Ever wondered what it would be like to be a top-producing REALTOR® who specializes in luxury real estate and waterfront properties?

kimberlee diamond and chassity cook

A day in the life of a top-producing REALTOR®

Tapping into Kimberlee Diamond’s years of knowledge and expertise

With over 25 years in real estate, Kim Diamond knows all too well what goes into a typical day as a successful realtor. We sat down with her to get the inside scoop.

How would you describe what your day?

Real estate agents are licensed to sell and buy properties and their primary job is to assist clients (buyers and sellers) through a real estate transaction. Being self-employed, strong organizational skills are needed to manage our business and our schedules.

There is a perception that all realtors do is show homes and list homes but in reality, it requires many more skills than most people realize.

What’s a typical day on the job like?

A typical day starts with exercise and then coffee. I’m in the office by 8:30 am, answering emails. I call new prospects that have come to us through our advertising, then follow up the phone calls with an email. There’s also the juggling of contracts to be looked over, negotiating prices with other realtors, and following up on inquiries.

In the afternoon I tend to do property visits of the local inventory; I like to see what other places have listed. We inspect most homes on the market in our area to understand the competition, as well as to gather the most knowledge we can for our clients.

I work with existing clients, getting their home sold for them, and follow up with clients and buyer agent showings to gather feedback on listings. I also support clients with closings. That might include being present for inspections, sending contract documentation to lawyers, and addressing any concerns that may arise as a result of the closing.

I usually use the evenings to stay on top of all our marketing, whether that’s social media, newspapers, or all of the platforms online.

How do you measure a successful day?

It’s always unique and exciting, and no two days are ever the same. You expect the unexpected. A great agent knows the potential pitfalls of a transaction and can look around the corner and fend off most issues before they arise. Ensuring our clients’ absolute satisfaction is key for us! Juggling the day in the most effective way is key to our success.

I absolutely love it and thrive on the madness most days. For the most part it’s pretty great: we have amazing clients. I love seeing people get their first place—that’s so exciting! Or helping older people: sometimes they’ve lost their partner, or they can’t maintain their home any longer.

In order to handle your workload, you must need help. Do you have a team, how many of you are there and what role does each member play?

To help keep up with all the work, I brought on Chassity Cook, a soon-to-be newly licensed REALTOR®. She has assisted in managing the many duties required throughout the day. If I don’t have the answer to a question, Chassity will do the research and get the information for our clients as fast as possible.

So far, it’s just Chassity and myself. However, we see that changing as we are getting super busy and are looking now to add a few more stellar agents to our team.

Does your job require you to work 7 days a week?

To be successful, realtors need to be disciplined. The reality is that most realtors work long hours and that also means working evenings and weekends. For the most part, that means being available to service our clients 24/7.

The day doesn’t end at 4 or 5 pm like it does in an office. While most days we take the time to enjoy our family meal, it’s generally back into the office for a few hours afterward. Chassity and I can easily be up until 11 pm closing deals and answering client calls. 

What is your view on staging?

We do what we call a ‘soft stage’ with our inventory of staging furniture and accessories making the home stand out from the rest. If a home needs a few things moved around or just spruced up, we’ll spend a good half-day to get it all staged and have the property looking as minimalist, modern and inviting to a vast array of purchasers as possible. It puts a fresh spin on the property!

Depersonalization and staging a home make it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home. The Georgian Realty Team provides this service complimentary to their clients.

https://www.collingwoodtoday.ca/spotlight/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-top-producing-realtor-5713829

Disclosure: This article was written and published by Collingwood Today. and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.