Buying a Cottage This Year? Things to Keep in Mind

Buying a cottage is a dream for many Canadians, offering the opportunity to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy nature’s tranquillity. However, purchasing a cottage is a significant investment with many factors to consider. Whether you’re a first-time cottage buyer or a seasoned pro, it’s essential to approach the buying process with careful planning and preparation. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a cottage in Canada.

Choosing a Cottage Location

The location of your cottage can impact not only the enjoyment of your property but also its long-term value. When choosing a location for your cottage, consider the following factors:

Proximity to amenities – Consider the distance to grocery stores, medical facilities, and other essential services.

Proximity to recreational activities – being close to golf courses, hiking trails, and ski resorts can enhance the overall enjoyment of your cottage.

Access to water – Waterfront properties tend to be highly desirable but can also come with higher price tags.

Accessibility during the off-season – Consider how long it takes to travel to your cottage and how accessible it is during different times of the year.

H2 Cottage Affordability

The cost of a cottage can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, size, and type of cottage. It also includes ongoing expenses such as property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utilities. It’s essential to understand the costs associated with cottage ownership and to ensure that you have the financial means to support the ongoing expenses of owning a cottage.

Financing options for a cottage that is not your principal residence may differ from those available for a primary residence. You may be required to make a larger down payment or pay a higher interest rate. Before purchasing, research your financing options and understand the terms of any loans or mortgages.

Cottages Come With Tax Implications

In Canada, owning a cottage as a secondary property rather than a principal residence can affect taxes and financing. When purchasing a cottage that will not be your principal residence, it’s essential to understand these implications.

If you own a cottage that is not your principal residence, you may be subject to capital gains taxes when you sell the property. This means that any increase in the property’s value over the time you owned it may be subject to taxation. Additionally, if you plan to rent out the property, you’ll need to consider the tax implications of rental income.

Regulations, Rules, Inspections & Permits

It’s essential to ensure the property is safe and meets all local regulations before purchasing. Obtaining the necessary permits can help ensure that future renovations or property changes comply with local regulations.

Types of inspections required when purchasing a cottage include septic system inspections, water quality testing, and home inspections. These inspections can identify any potential issues with the property and help ensure that you’re making a sound investment.

Permits may be required for any renovations or changes to the property. These may include building permits, zoning permits, and permits for any water or sewage systems. Research the permits required in your desired location and ensure that any necessary permits are obtained before making any changes to the property. Keep in mind that waterfront cottages often come with their own set of rules, ranging from what you can put down your drain to regulations related to the grading of the property or raising your cottage out of the path of flooding.

Type of Cottages

When choosing the type of cottage to purchase, consider your needs and how you plan to use the property. There are three main types of cottages:

Seasonal cottages are typically only used during the summer months and are not insulated for winter use. These cottages are often less expensive than other types of cottages, but they may not be suitable for year-round use.

Three-season cottages are typically used from spring to fall and are partially insulated for use during cooler months. These cottages may have heat sources such as wood stoves or space heaters, but they are not typically suitable for winter use.

Four-season cottages are fully insulated and suitable for year-round use. These cottages typically have a heating source and are equipped with features such as double-pane windows and insulated doors & flooring to provide efficient insulation. While four-season cabins may be more expensive than other types of cottages, they offer the advantage of year-round use and may have a higher resale value.

If you’re looking for a summer retreat, a seasonal or three-season cottage may be a suitable option. However, if you plan to use the property year-round or want the opportunity to rent the property during the winter months, a four-season cottage may be a better fit.

Cottage Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the property remains safe, functional, and enjoyable for many years. Cottage maintenance can include regular tasks such as cleaning gutters, trimming trees, and cleaning the property. Cottages also require ongoing maintenance of systems such as heating, plumbing, and electrical. If your waterfront cottage has an aluminum dock, you’ll need to pull it out of the water in the fall and re-assemble it each spring to avoid ice damage.

If you do not plan to reside on the property year-round, consider how to maintain it. Hiring a property management company or caretaker might be wise to ensure the property is adequately maintained in your absence.

Buying a Cottage

Purchasing a cottage in Canada is an exciting and rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy nature’s beauty and escape city life’s stresses. It can provide years of enjoyment and create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. However, it’s crucial to approach the buying process carefully. By making an informed decision and approaching the buying process carefully, you can enjoy the benefits of cottage ownership for many years.