LIZ MARTIN

There’s just something about Peggy’s Cove.

I’ve been going to visit consistently since I moved to Nova Scotia in 2008. At first, we lived fairly close by, so I’d have a bit of extra time during the day and I’d drive down to sit on the rocks, or I’d drag the family out to try and catch the sunset. In the summer, I’d ride my bike from our house, a 25 km or so round trip, it was a good turning point / water break spot. 

Since we moved to “the city”, I visit less often, but if I’m in the area, I’ll detour just to get out and walk on the rocks, breathe in the fresh air and take in the views. I still try to drag the family out to catch the sunset a few times a year. 

Older homes have a unique charm that many buyers find irresistible—original hardwood floors, intricate moldings, and architectural details that simply aren’t found in newer builds. To make your home stand out in today’s market, it’s important to showcase its character while addressing modern buyer expectations.

Here’s how to make your older home shine:

Start With a Clean, Decluttered Space

Buyers need to see your home’s original features and charm.  Spend time decluttering and cleaning every nook and cranny. Consider hiring a professional cleaner for a deep clean. For the best outcome, it is important to bring the property to market looking its absolute best!

Highlight Maintenance and Updates

An older home with clear signs of upkeep is far more appealing than one that has clearly deferred maintenance. Share a list of recent updates, such as a new roof, upgraded electrical, or modernized heating systems.

If your home’s systems haven’t been upgraded, consider getting quotes for potential updates. Providing this information gives buyers a clear idea of what costs they might face, helping to build confidence and transparency.

Embrace the Neighborhood’s Character

Older homes are often located in established neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, larger lots, and a true sense of community. These unique lifestyle perks can be a major draw for buyers who are looking for that welcoming feel.

Mature Landscaping

Another advantage of older homes is the mature gardens and landscaping that typically come with them. Established trees, shrubs, and perennial beds are rare in newer developments and costly to recreate. Highlight the lush outdoor spaces and the privacy they offer—it’s a feature many buyers will value.

Let the Charm Shine

From intricate moldings to built-in shelves, let your home’s history take center stage. If a feature feels dated rather than charming (like carpet covering hardwood floors), consider small updates that restore its original appeal.

Stage Thoughtfully

Work with a stager to blend timeless decor with modern touches. This helps buyers see how they can balance the home’s character with their personal style.

Price It Right

An older home’s value goes beyond square footage—it’s about character, location, and quality. Work with an experienced Realtor (that’s me!) to set a competitive price that reflects these unique factors while attracting today’s buyers.

By taking the time to present your home thoughtfully, you can make its charm and potential irresistible to buyers. Let me help you position your home for success—contact me to get started!

Happy New Year! Each year at Domus Realty, we commission a local artist to create a piece of artwork that features a local landmark, we then use the work to create our holiday card. A wonderful depiction of the Oval at the Halifax Common, done by local artist The Downtown Sketcher for Domus Realty's 2024 Holiday Card! I have a few extra of this years card, if you'd like one, send me an email and I'll put one in the mail to you! All the best in 2025!

1. Location
   Location has always been a top consideration for prospective buyers.  With prices continuing to rise in the downtown core, buyers are willing to venture into new neighbourhoods and focus on the overall environment and property features. The property’s surroundings, such as nearby parks, schools, and community amenities, have gained importance.

2. Outdoor Space

   A yard is typically highly desirable. Halifax buyers are drawn to useful yards that provide space for Rover to get a run in, can be a gathering area in the summer or maybe house a secondary unit in the future.

3. Heat Pumps
   As summers in Halifax grow warmer, heat pumps have become a highly sought-after feature for supplementary heating and cooling. Buyers increasingly look for properties that already have this installed, as it adds comfort and energy efficiency throughout the year.

4. Feature Rooms
   Key living spaces, or what we refer to as the “heart” of the home, should be in excellent condition. The kitchen remains the most crucial room, followed closely by the family room, bathrooms, and the primary bedroom with a walk-in closet. These are the spaces where buyers imagine themselves living and entertaining.

5. Space & Natural Light
   Creating a sense of space is essential in making your home feel larger and more inviting. Decluttering is the most effective way to achieve this. Allowing natural light to flood into rooms can make a significant difference and ensure that buyers have a clear view of the property’s condition.

6. Neutral Paint
   A fresh coat of paint is a simple yet highly effective way to refresh your home before listing it for sale. Neutral tones are best, as they allow buyers to envision their own style in the space. I can recommend professional painters who can help ensure your home looks its best when it hits the market.

What Can Turn Buyers Off?

• Deferred Maintenance
  Homes with deferred maintenance can be a significant turn-off for buyers. Issues like peeling paint, leaky faucets, or overgrown landscaping can give the impression that the home hasn’t been well cared for. Addressing these maintenance concerns before listing your home can make a big difference in attracting buyers and securing a better price.

• Unclean Homes
  A home that isn’t clean can be a major deterrent for buyers. Sellers should invest time in thoroughly cleaning their homes or consider hiring a professional for a deep clean. This not only makes the home more appealing for showings but also makes it easier to maintain cleanliness during the selling period.

How Do Home Features Impact the Selling Strategy?

This is where Liz’s expertise becomes invaluable. Highlighting your home’s most desirable features in listings and showings is key to attracting buyers. The right description, combined with high-quality professional photography, can make your home stand out in the Halifax market. Liz knows how to craft compelling narratives and featuring what resonates with buyers, will ensure your home is presented in the best possible light.

Get Your Home Sold with Liz Martin

Liz is skilled and experienced in helping home owners get prepared for listing and sale. With a deep understanding of marketing to the Halifax real estate market, Liz can guide you on what features are most sought after, how to prepare your home, and how she will successfully market your home.  Contact Liz today to get started.

If you bought a house in 2023 and were a first time buyer - don’t forget to check with your accountant or tax preparer to see if you qualify for the federal credit.

From Canada.ca

Line 31270 – Home buyers’ amount:

You can claim up to $10,000 for the purchase of a qualifying home in 2023 if you meet both of the following conditions:

You (or your spouse or common-law partner) acquired a qualifying home

You did not live in another home (inside or outside Canada) that you (or your spouse or common-law partner) owned in the year of acquisition or in any of the four preceding years (first-time home buyer) unless you are a person with a disability)

It’s worth checking out as it could mean up to $1500 in credit.

Qualifying homes include :
Single family including semi-detached and townhouses
Mobile homes
Condominium units
Co-op may qualify (you have to be the share owner not tenant).

Checkout: Canada.ca website for more info and again - be sure to check with your acct and/or tax preparer.

#taxtime #firsttimehomebuyer #taxcredit #homebuyertaxcredit #canada #federaltax

March is always a bustling month in our household, with March Break events and of course  Irish Dance performances and celebrations around St. Patrick’s Day.

This year, however, is particularly excitig as we prepare to head off to  The CLRG World Irish Dance Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, taking place from March 24th to March 31st. My daughter, will be dancing in the solo competition for the first time. It's the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance, not only on her part but also thanks to the unwavering support and guidance from the incredible coaches at Rising Tide Dance Studio.

Watch for Rising Tide’s live television appearances on March 12th 10:30am on CTV News, and also March 14th 9am on Global News. 

As we gear up for our trip, I invite you to join in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day by participating in the various events happening throughout March in Halifax, Dartmouth and throughout Nova Scotia. 

March 3, 2024:

1. Celebrate Irish Heritage Month by Beading an Irish Flag: Sunday, March 3, 10:00 PM-12:00 AM, The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse, 5136 Prince Street, Halifax, NS. Fundraising for the Halifax St. Patrick's Day Parade.

March 5, 2024:

2. Travelling Royal Irish Tours and Celebrity Cruises – Nova Scotia: Tuesday, March 5, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Delta Hotels by Marriott Dartmouth, 240 Brownlow Avenue Dartmouth, NS B3B 1X6. Hosted by Target Tours.

March 6, 2024:

3. Irish Heritage Movie: The Quiet Girl: Wednesday, March 6, 1:30-3:15PM, Woodlawn Public Library, 31 Eisener Boulevard, Dartmouth NS B2W 0J1. PG-13 | 2023 | 1hr 35min.

March 7, 2024:

4. Celebrate Irish Heritage Month: Irish Flag Raising with Mayor Savage and Ambassador McKee. March 7, 2024 - 12:00 noon, Parade Square, Flag Pole.

March 9, 2024:

5. Saint Patrick’s Church Tour and Talk sponsored by The Charitable Irish: March 9 – 2:00 pm, 2263 Brunswick Street, Halifax. Join Blair Beed at Saint Patrick’s Church to learn its history.

March 10, 2024:

6. Spectacular Halifax St. Patrick's Day Parade: Sunday, March 10, 2024, along Lower Water Street. Join in the festivities and showcase your creativity!

March 15, 2024:

7. Charitable Irish St. Patrick’s Day Dinner: Friday, March 15, 2024, Westin Nova Scotian Hotel, 6:00 pm. Experience Irish music and cuisine in a unique setting.

8. Songs in the Stacks: Irish Music with Dusty Keleher: Friday, March 15, 10:30-11:30 AM, Alderney Gate Public Library.

March 16, 2024:

9. St. Patrick’s Day Eve with Callehan!: Saturday March 16 – 8:00-11:00PM, Old Orchard Inn & Spa, 153 Greenwich RD S, Wolfville Ridge, NS.

10. St. Paddy’s Day Eve: Saturday, March 16, 8:00 – 11:00 PM, Seahorse Tavern, 2037 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS.

11. Saint Patrick’s Day Acadian Style!: Saturday March 16, 10:30PM, 14 Sydney St, Digby, NS.

12. St. Patrick’s Day with Spyder: Saturday, March 16, 9:00 PM-1:00 AM, Cranton Cross Road Community Centre, 206 Cranton Crossing Rd, Margaree Centre, NS.

March 17, 2024:

13. Dusty Keleher @ Finbar’s Irish Pub: Sunday March 17 – 9:30 AM, Finbar’s Irish Pub, 1595 Bedford Hwy, Bedford NS.

14. St. Patrick’s Day Drag Brunch: Sunday, March 17 – 12:00-3:00 PM, Freeman’s Little New York, 1726 Grafton St, Halifax, NS.

15. Adria Jackson Harp – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration: Sunday, March 17, 2:00 - 4:00 AM, The Sanctuary Arts Centre, 100 Ochterloney St, Dartmouth NS.

16. Durty Nelly’s St. Patrick’s DAY celebrations (as posted on their FB page):

    - 7 am~8am Breakfast club

    - 8am~11am Brunch

    - 10am~1pm Shannon Quinn Irish Ceilidh

    - 1:30~4:30 The East Enders

    - 5pm~8pm Dodge Levatte

    - 8:30~10:30 Colin Burke Duo

    - 11pm~1:30am Jordan Leblanc & Brooklyn Blackmore

17. The Old Triangle Irish Pub: Scheudle for 7am opening (I’ve heard the line up starts early)

    Live Music schedule

    7am SheNova

    10.30-1.30 Dave MacIssac & Troy McGillvary

    2-5 Rowdy Dow

    5.30-8.30 The Plugs

    9-Close Mark Hippern Trio

    Seanchai Schedule

    12-1.30 Evans & Doherty

    2-3 Dave & Troy

    3.30-6.30 George Street Band

    7-Close Renwick Station

March 28, 2024:

Maurice Aucoin: Thursday, March 28 – 8:00 PM, Celtic Corner Public House, 69 Alderney Dr, Dartmouth, NS.

**As always, please double check the events before you head out for any schedule changes, cancellations etc. 

And, it goes without saying, enjoy your drink responsibly, arrange your transportation before you go, or wear your walking shoes! 

Top Indoor Activities to Beat the Winter Blues in Nova Scotia

As winter blankets Nova Scotia with snow and chilly temperatures, it's the perfect time to explore indoor activities that will warm your heart and lift your spirits. While the winter blues may tempt you to hibernate indoors, there are plenty of exciting ways to stay active and entertained without braving the cold. Here are some top indoor activities to beat the winter blues in Nova Scotia:

1. Visit a Local Museum or Art Gallery: Nova Scotia is rich in culture and history, and what better way to immerse yourself than by exploring a local museum or art gallery? Check out Nova Scotia Museums for a full list of what is open in winter and their hours. Unfortunately, the Nova Scotia Art Gallery is temporarily closed this winter for maintenance. Check back for spring re-opening on their website. The Dalhousie Art Gallery is another option. 

2. Try Indoor Rock Climbing: Embrace your adventurous side and head to an indoor rock climbing gym. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, indoor rock climbing is a fun and challenging activity that will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline flowing. Local climbing facilities include East Peak Climbing, Seven Bays Bouldering Halifax & Bayers Lake, The Dalhousie Gym, and Formation Halifax Outback Climbing Club (FHOCC)

3. Attend a Cooking Class: Warm up from the inside out by attending a cooking class. Learn new recipes, techniques, and culinary skills while enjoying delicious food in a fun and interactive environment. A favourite spot  just outside of the city is The Flying Apron Inn & Cookery, where you can take a class & stay overnight! 

4. Relax at a Spa or Wellness Center: Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and self-care at a spa or wellness center. Indulge in a massage, facial, or other rejuvenating treatments to melt away stress and tension, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed. We have many local options right in the city and just outside as well. While I haven’t been to Nature Folk, many clients and friends have been and love the atmosphere and ease of access. Just outside Halifax, near Peggy’s Cove is Oceanstone’s Hydrothermal Spa. I received a gift certificate for Christmas for this and can’t wait to use it! I’ve heard wonderful reviews and the location is spectacular. 

5. Take a Dance or Fitness Class: Beat the winter blues and stay active by taking a dance or fitness class. Whether you prefer salsa dancing, yoga, or high-intensity interval training, there are plenty of classes available to suit your interests and fitness level.  Check out Happy Soul Dance Studio for their unique offerings and also, check out Halifax Cape Breton Dances for alternating all ages and over 19 dances. 

6. Explore Indoor Markets and Craft Fairs: Support local artisans and vendors by exploring indoor markets and craft fairs. Browse unique handmade goods, artisanal foods, and one-of-a-kind gifts while escaping the winter chill. I am seeing more vintage and antique style markets making a come back. Check out the Curio Collective, and The Funky Flea.

7. Host a Game Night: Gather your friends and family for a cozy game night at home. Break out classic board games, card games, or host a friendly game of trivia to enjoy quality time together indoors.

8. Attend a Live Performance or Show: Experience the magic of live theater, music, or comedy by attending a performance or show. Check out local theaters including Neptune, concert venues including The Rebecca Cohn, the outstanding Symphony Nova Scotia as well comedy club Yuk Yuk’s for upcoming events and performances. A wonderful option for the family is Durty Nelly’s on Sunday’s from 3-6 where you can experience a live Irish session (and maybe some dancing) while enjoying an afternoon appetizer or catching a game. And of course, there is The Carleton, and several other local pubs & bars that offer live music for over 19’s. 

9. Try Ax Throwing: And last, but not least, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention ax throwing! We recently had an office social at Halimac, which was a lot of fun! Indoor ax throwing is thrilling and unconventional activity that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Don't let the winter blues get you down—embrace the season and explore these top indoor activities to stay active, entertained, and inspired in Nova Scotia. Whether you're seeking culture, adventure, relaxation, or connection, there's something for everyone to enjoy indoors during the winter months.

One question that buyers often ask me when we first meet, notably, in today's busy market is: Why hasn't that house sold?  Let's look at some of the most common reasons why a house may not be selling and what you, as a buyer can do to take advantage of these situations.

1. Overpriced

One of the main reasons a house may not be selling is that it is overpriced. Sellers may have unrealistic expectations about what their home is worth, leading them to set an asking price that is significantly higher than the market value. This can be a turnoff for potential buyers who are looking for a fair deal. However, this situation can also be an opportunity for a buyer to negotiate on a house price rather than compete with other buyers and pay over asking. Work with your Realtor to make an offer at fair market value and see if you can negotiate that price down. 

2. Condition

Another reason why a house may not be selling is that it is in less than ideal condition. This could mean that it needs significant repairs or updates that the seller is unwilling or unable to make. Again, this can be a turnoff for many potential buyers who are looking for a move-in ready home. However, if you're willing to invest some time and money into fixing up the property, you could get a great deal on a home that would otherwise be out of your price range. Just be sure to do your research and get estimates for any repairs or updates before making an offer.

3. Location

Sometimes a home's location can be a dealbreaker for buyers. It could be in a less desirable neighborhood, or it could be situated near a busy road or other sources of noise pollution. While these factors may make the property less attractive to some buyers, they may not bother you as much. If you're willing to overlook the location of the home, you could potentially get a great deal on a property that is otherwise in good condition and meets your needs.

4. Poor marketing

Finally, a house may not be selling because it is not being marketed effectively. This could mean that the seller is not using high-quality photos or descriptions in their listing, or that they are not promoting the property effectively through social media or other channels. You can work with your real estate agent to find these hidden gems and make an offer that reflects the property's true value.

As a buyer, these situations can present an opportunity.  Look beyond the days on market and see how you can make that work to your advantage.  Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent and do  your due diligence. Again always take into considation the cost of  repairs, and weigh the pros and cons of the home's location before making a final decision. With the right approach, you could be on your way to owning your dream home at a price you can afford.

Welcome to The Village at Fisherman's Cove, a friendly, well thought out community located just steps away from McCormack's Beach and boardwalk, and scenic Fisherman's Cove with restaurants, shops, fresh off the boat seafood and the Hartlen Point Forces Golf Club is just a few kms up the road. This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath detached home is flooded with natural light and offers stunning sunset views and ocean breezes from the rear deck. The main level has open concept layout with beautiful hardwood floors, large living room and dining room. The spacious eat-in kitchen also has breakfast bar, great storage and a pantry. Large primary bedroom is also located on this level and includes 5 piece ensuite, walk-in closet and laundry just outside the door. The lower level features a bright office/den, rec room, 2nd bedroom, and the 2nd full bathroom. 226 Sailors Trail has been nicely maintained and has a recently installed heat pump/AC. A well-managed condo with great amenities including a private club house, outdoor heated pool, and a guest suite! Enjoy having your own home with the convenience of condo living! MLS#202223671

1002 1445 South Park St. The Trillium Condo For Sale

Listing Price $659,900

MLS#202222482 

This stunning 2-bedroom condo in The Trillium is a must see. Featuring a modern open concept living and dining room layout with floor-to-ceiling windows featuring gorgeous west facing views over Victoria Park. Stunning in the evening and ideal for entertaining. Both bedrooms are spacious with the primary offering a walk-in closet and 5-piece ensuite. Quality finishes including granite counters throughout the kitchen and bathrooms, hardwood floors, crown moldings and cove ceilings. This one owner unit comes with its own assigned parking and storage spaces. The Trillium offers exceptional 24-hour concierge services, outdoor terraces with pool and hot tub, guest suite, gym, social room, and secure underground parking. Step out on to South Park St. and walk to the shops of Spring Garden Rd., the Public Gardens, growing number of restaurants, theatres, the hospitals, universities. Don't miss out on this sought after layout and location.

Getting a house ready to sell can take several weeksof preparation.

Organizing and staging can be a daunting task for some.

For a FALL selling timeframe, NOW is the time to be consulting with your Realtor to begin the work!

Reach out to me for your first consult, let's get your home ready to sell! 

lizm@domus.ns.ca 902-219-0316 or dm me on social.