5 Things to Know Before You Buy a Cottage in Ontario

Expert insights for buyers in Muskoka, Kawarthas, Haliburton, Parry Sound & Simcoe

Thinking of making cottage life part of your reality this year? Whether it’s for family fun, weekend getaways, or long-term investment, 2025 is a strategic time to buy a cottage in Ontario’s cottage country. Inventory is opening up, interest rates are settling, and buyer confidence is back. But success in this market comes down to preparation—and the right advice.

Here are 5 key tips to consider before you buy a cottage in 2025, brought to you by the local experts at Cottage Vacations Real Estate.

1. Start With Your Why: Lifestyle vs. Investment (or Both?)

Before you start browsing listings, get clear on your primary reason for buying. Are you:

Looking for a weekend retreat for your family?
Planning to rent it out when you’re not using it?
Dreaming of retiring there full-time?

Each goal leads to a different kind of property. For example, a rental-friendly cottage will need strong Wi-Fi, proximity to amenities, and four-season functionality. A family-first retreat might prioritize a safe shoreline, bunkie potential, or quiet lake.

As locals with experience in both cottage lifestyle and investments, Jay and Tyler can help you define your goals and match you with properties that truly fit your vision.

2. Seasonal vs. Year-Round Access: Know What You’re Getting Into

Not all cottages are created equal when it comes to access.

Boat-access only? Romantic in summer, but impractical for families or full-time living.
Seasonal roads? Cheaper, but tricky if you want Thanksgiving or March Break at the lake.
Four-season access? Pricier, but great for flexibility and long-term use.

Cottages across Muskoka, Haliburton, Parry Sound, and beyond vary widely in accessibility—and this is where local knowledge matters most.

Jay and Tyler will help you avoid seasonal surprises and steer you toward properties that match your usage plans.

3. Waterfront Still Reigns—But There Are Smart Alternatives

Everyone wants waterfront – it’s beautiful, holds value, and delivers the classic cottage vibe. But demand in 2025 is still strong, and true lakefront comes at a premium.

Smart buyers are also exploring:

Cottages with deeded water access
Properties on smaller, less commercial lakes
Homes a short walk from the water with shared access

These options can offer major value—without compromising the experience.
Our team can show you hidden gems and under-the-radar lakes where your dollar stretches further.

4. Short-Term Rental? Do Your Homework First

Planning to rent your cottage on Airbnb when you’re not using it? It’s a great way to offset costs—but it’s not as simple as listing it and waiting for bookings.

Many municipalities (like Muskoka Lakes) now require short-term rental licenses
Some restrict rental frequency or enforce strict bylaws
Insurance and cleaning logistics matter, too

Jay and Tyler are dialed into each township’s current rental policies and can help you choose a cottage with income potential—and no nasty surprises.

5. Think Ahead: Maintenance, Layout, and Long-Term Liveability

What seems charming in summer could become a hassle long-term. Ask yourself:

Is the lot steep or full of stairs?
Is the water source reliable year-round?
Are the deck, dock, and roof in good shape?

Also think beyond the next year:
Will you need more bedrooms down the road? Could it handle guests, grandkids, or future upgrades?

Working with local experts in the area like Jay and Tyler, can help bring a long-term lens to your search. Helping you find a property that’s not just great now—but still perfect five or ten years from now.

Ready to Find Your Ideal Cottage in 2025?

Cottage buying isn’t just about listings—it’s about making the right choice for your goals, lifestyle, and future. Whether you’re searching in Muskoka, Kawarthas, Haliburton, Parry Sound, or Simcoe, the market is full of opportunity—but only if you have the right experts on your side.

Connect with Jay Katzeff or Tyler Da Costa at Cottage Vacations Real Estate to start your personalized search. With deep local knowledge and a no-pressure, client-first approach, they’ll help you cut through the clutter and find the cottage that fits your life.