In this refreshingly real and inspiring episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the dream—and the details—of cottage ownership in Ontario. Joined by cottage owner and mortgage expert Nicolee Evans from Laframboise Mortgage, this episode walks you through everything you need to know to make your lakefront dreams a financial reality.

From unexpected winter repairs to financing options for island-access properties, they cover the joys and challenges of recreational real estate ownership with honesty, clarity, and laughter. Whether you're dreaming of your first dock or planning your third, this episode is your ultimate guide to getting your docks in a row.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome to the Country Club Podcast

01:10 – Listener Q&A: Conditional offers & getting your deposit back

02:45 – Setting the scene: Why cottage life is so magical in Canada

04:30 – Nicolee’s personal journey to cottage ownership

06:00 – The surprise realities of owning a recreational property

08:15 – Why a property manager might be a must

09:20 – Financing a cottage vs a primary home: What’s different?

11:10 – What lenders look for in cottage properties

13:30 – Affordability, alternative lenders & B-20 regulations

16:40 – Unique properties, HELOCs, and mortgage strategy

20:00 – The truth about Airbnb and short-term rentals

24:30 – Documentation & pre-approval tips to save your sanity

28:00 – Credit scores, mortgage partners & being prepared

32:00 – Why communication between your real estate team matters

33:50 – Top 3 tips before making an offer on a cottage

35:30 – The emotional & lifestyle value of a family retreat

38:00 – Cottage ownership as a long-term investment

40:30 – Nicolee’s advice to her past self: Take your time & do your research

42:00 – Final thoughts: Cottage life isn’t “set it and forget it”—but it’s worth it

Notable Quotes:

"Get your docks in a row. It's not just a clever saying—it’s the smartest thing you can do before diving into cottage ownership." – Diana Cassidy-Bush

"Eyes wide open: that’s how you make smart, soulful real estate decisions." – Nicolee Evans

"The goal isn’t just to qualify. The goal is to sleep at night knowing the property enhances your life, not burdens it." – Nicolee Evans

Resources & Takeaways:

Key Takeaways:

• Be Realistic About Financing: Secondary properties often require a bigger down payment and different lending rules. Speak to a mortgage pro early.
• Plan for Property Maintenance: Seasonal wear-and-tear, distance, and utility quirks are all part of cottage ownership.
• Know Your Lending Types: From A-lenders to B-lenders to private financing and HELOC strategies, the structure can make or break your deal.
• Don’t Rely on Rental Income: Airbnb income can’t always be counted on for financing and adds layers of complexity with insurance and zoning.
• Start the Conversation Early: Your mortgage and real estate team can help you build a plan—even if you're not ready yet.

Learn more: https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush

Linked In:

Thinking about buying a cottage? Before you dive headfirst into lake life, this episode of The Country Club Podcast is your essential pre-purchase checklist. Host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks you through 9 must-ask questions to clarify your vision, assess your needs, and align your dreams with your budget and lifestyle.

From lake types to accessibility, seasonal use to investment strategies — this candid and heartwarming episode will help you start your journey with confidence. If a peaceful dock, cozy firepit, or epic tubing sessions are on your vision board, this is the episode for you.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast

01:15 – Why a financing condition still matters even with pre-approval

02:30 – Cottage dreams & why Canadians are craving waterfront living

04:00 – The real reason lakefront lots are in such short supply

05:15 – Question 1: What kind of water activities matter to your family?

08:00 – Question 2: How far are you willing to travel from home?

09:00 – Question 3: What’s your realistic budget?

09:45 – Question 4: Do you need a 4-season or 3-season cottage?

10:30 – Question 5: How accessible should the cottage be year-round?

11:45 – Question 6: What kind of views and terrain do you want?

12:45 – Question 7: What local amenities matter to you?

13:45 – Question 8: What does the ideal cottage interior look like?

15:00 – Question 9: Are you buying for family, retirement, or rental income?

16:15 – Wrap up: Why clarity is the first step to living your lakefront dream

Notable Quotes

“Most every waterfront property you see already has a structure on it. Finding a true building lot on the water is incredibly rare.”

“Cottages aren’t just properties—they’re part of our national identity.”

“It’s not about what’s trendy or what your neighbor has. It’s about defining your version of lake life.”

“Keep your paddles in the water and your dreams on the dock.”

Key Takeaways & Resources

• Supply is Limited: Most lakefront land was developed decades ago, so building lots are rare.
• Lifestyle First: Decide on boating, paddling, fishing, or peace and quiet — it defines your lake options.
• Access Matters: Think year-round roads vs. seasonal accessibility and how that impacts use.
• Budget Realism: Cottage dreams range wildly in price depending on region, size, and features.
• Multi-Use Options: Buy for family time, retirement, or as a rental investment — each path has pros and cons.

Resource Mentioned:

• Royal LePage Recreational Property Survey (Spring) – Cited to note the forecasted 4% price increase in recreational properties.

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027

Website: https://dianacassidybush.ca/

Email:

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks listeners through the entire home buying journey, from shifting the negative narrative around ownership to the final walkthrough and key hand-off. With practical tips, expert insight, and an empowering mindset, Diana ensures you’re not only prepared, but inspired to take the first step toward homeownership. Whether you're ready now or planning for the future, this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to move forward.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Welcome to The Country Club Podcast & Episode Intro

[01:00] Changing the Narrative Around Homeownership

[03:00] Why Real Estate Is Still the Best Investment

[04:30] Facing Obstacles with the Right Team

[05:45] The Importance of Preparation—even Years in Advance

[06:30] Step 1: Choose a Real Estate Professional

[07:15] Step 2: Connect with a Lender & Get Pre-Approved

[08:30] Step 3: Set Up Home Search with Your Realtor

[09:00] Step 4: Viewing Homes & Making an Offer

[10:00] Understanding Conditions: Financing, Inspections & Insurance

[11:30] What to Expect During Offer Negotiation

[13:00] Firming Up the Sale & What Happens Next

[14:30] Preparing for Closing: Lawyers, Insurance, Utilities

[16:30] Final Walkthrough & Closing Day Logistics

[17:30] Recap, Encouragement, and What’s Ahead

“Real estate really is the best investment in the world. Why? Because we all need shelter.”

“Every market has obstacles—but they’re temporary. With the right team, you can face anything.”

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027

Website: https://dianacassidybush.ca/

Email: info@thedcbteam.ca

This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!