If you’ve ever opened a closet only to be attacked by an avalanche of reusable grocery bags, you’re not alone. Canadian homes were built for snow boots, bulky coats, and somehow, a never-ending supply of Tupperware lids with no matching bottoms.

So when clients tell me they need to upsize because they’ve “run out of room,” my first question is always:Have you really run out of space, or are you just not using the space you already have?

The Hidden Storage Potential in Your Home

You’d be surprised how many square feet in your home are just sitting there doing nothing.Behind drywall? Wasted.Above closets? Wasted.Under the stairs? Wasted. Unless you're secretly housing a wizard.

The good news? Reclaiming these spaces doesn’t mean tearing your house apart or adding an extension.We’re talking about smart modifications, small changes with big impact. 

Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Toe-kick drawers under your kitchen cabinets. Yes, that space exists.

• Slide-out pantry shelves so you don’t lose food (or your sanity) in the back corners.

• Built-in wall nooks that turn blank walls into bonus storage.

• Under-stair storage that’s way too good to be a broom closet.

• Multi-purpose furniture with secret compartments. Spy movie stuff, but for your blankets.

A few of these ideas might involve some light modifications. Think custom carpentry or retrofitting. But not full-on renovations. The result?Your home works with you, not against you.

Why This Matters (Even If You’re Not Moving)

Storage isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a major factor in how your home feels and functions.

If your counters are always cluttered or your hallway is doubling as a shoe graveyard, you’re not imagining the stress.That clutter takes up mental space too.

And if you are thinking of selling, maximizing storage can absolutely boost buyer appeal. People love a tidy space, especially one that hides all their stuff behind stylish, clever solutions.

Need Some Help Finding Solutions?

I’ve got a personal list of companies that offer smart, practical, design-forward storage solutions.

Drop me a message or comment if you’d like the list. It’s one of those things that’s helpful whether you're staying, selling, or simply tired of losing your scarf in a pile of... other scarves.

You walk into an empty house in Winnipeg or anywhere across Southern Manitoba .It’s the right size. It has the right number of rooms. But it feels… wrong.

And no, you're not being dramatic. You’re picking up on something real.

Whether you’re building new, upsizing your current home, or scoping out resale listings, the floor plan can make or break your experience. Not just during showings—but in daily life.

So let’s talk about why that is—and how to choose a layout that works with your lifestyle, not against it.

Spoiler Alert: It’s Not Just Square Footage

Most buyers start with the basics:

• Bedrooms ✅

• Bathrooms ✅

• Open kitchen ✅

But what really matters is how the space feels. That has everything to do with layout—and nothing to do with square footage.

Two homes can both be 1,800 square feet. One flows. One flops. Why?

Because square footage is math. Layout is experience.

What Makes a Floor Plan Feel Right?

Think about your daily rhythm:

• Where does the morning sun hit first?

• Do you walk through the kitchen on your way out the door?

• Can you hear the kids from the home office—or not hear them at all?

• Is there a spot that feels like a retreat, even if the rest of the home is buzzing?

These aren’t architectural details. They’re lifestyle cues. And they matter. 

Great floor plans take into account:

✅ Natural light

✅ Sight lines (Can you see the backyard from the kitchen?)

✅ Flow (How easily you move through the space)

✅ Noise zones (Ahem—do you really want your bedroom sharing a wall with the laundry room?)

✅ Separation vs. connection (Open concept is trendy, but not always functional)

Are You Designing for How You Live… or How You Want to Live?

Here’s where it gets interesting.

Sometimes the best floor plan isn’t one that matches your current lifestyle—it’s one that supports the life you’re building into.

Are you a family that’s growing into chaotic mornings and after-school homework zones? Are you a downsizer who still wants space for entertaining (but not a million walls to decorate)?Do you want quiet while you cook, or do you want the kitchen to be the heartbeat of your home?

A good floor plan adapts to your patterns. A great one evolves with you.

What to Consider Before You Commit to a Layout

Before falling in love with countertops or tile, ask yourself:

• Where will I drop my keys every day?

• Do I want a formal dining room—or will it turn into a glorified storage space?

• Can I see myself living in this layout for the next 5–10 years?

• Is this space flexible enough for life changes—kids, working from home, aging parents, etc.?

• How does this layout feel at different times of day?

Your home is more than just a box to fill with furniture. It’s a stage for your life. Let’s make sure it’s not a one-act play.

Bonus: Don’t Forget to Think Local

Here in Winnipeg and throughout Southern Manitoba, the way we live—and build—has its own flavour.

• Mudrooms matter (because… snow).

• West-facing windows mean warmer evenings, but hotter summers.

• Split-level homes can be gold for growing families.

• Walkout basements? Huge perk—especially in newer developments like Oak Bluff, Niverville, and beyond.

Choosing a floor plan isn’t just about taste. It’s about climate, lifestyle, and what works here. That’s why having a local REALTOR®️ (hi, that’s me ) makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Choose a Floor Plan—Choose a Flow

The best homes aren’t the biggest or the flashiest. They’re the ones that feel right, and that feeling starts with how a space flows.

If you’re buying, building, or just dreaming—let’s talk. I’ll help you look past square footage and into how a home actually works for you.

When selling your home, every detail counts. Most homeowners focus on staging their living room, updating their kitchen, and making their curb appeal pop—but what about the garage?

If you’re getting ready to list your home, don’t overlook the garage. Here’s why it matters and how to make sure yours is market-ready.

Why Your Garage Matters to Buyers

The garage isn’t just a parking spot—it’s an extension of your home. Depending on the buyer, it might be:

✅ A storage solution – Buyers love extra storage, especially if the home doesn’t have a basement or attic space.

✅ A workshop or hobby space – Many buyers dream of a DIY workshop, home gym, or studio in their garage.

✅ A reflection of home maintenance – A clean, well-organized garage gives the impression that the entire home has been well cared for.

✅ A multi-purpose space – Some homeowners use garages as home offices, play areas, or even entertainment spaces.

A messy, dark, and neglected garage can make buyers feel uneasy. But a bright, clean, and organized one? That leaves an impression of value and possibility.

Steps to Prep Your Garage for a Sale

1. Declutter & Organize

Let’s be real—garages often turn into storage dumps. Old tools, holiday decorations, sports gear, and half-finished projects pile up over time. But when selling, buyers need to see the space, not your clutter.

Purge items you no longer need: Donate, sell, or toss things that haven’t been used in years.

Use storage solutions: Invest in shelves, pegboards, and storage bins to neatly organize tools, equipment, and seasonal items.

Keep floors clear: The more floor space buyers can see, the bigger the garage feels.

Pro Tip: If you have a lot of extra stuff, consider renting a storage unit while your home is on the market. A minimalist garage helps buyers visualize how they’d use the space.

2. Deep Clean Everything

Garages get dirty—dust, cobwebs, oil stains, and debris accumulate over time. A little cleaning goes a long way in making the space look fresh and inviting.

Sweep and mop – Remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs from the floors and walls.

Remove oil stains – Use a degreaser or kitty litter to absorb any stains on the concrete.

Wipe down surfaces – Clean shelves, workbenches, and doors.

Air it out – If your garage smells musty, open the doors and use a deodorizer.

Pro Tip: Buyers will likely open cabinets and closets, so make sure those areas are clean and organized too!

3. Make Repairs & Minor Upgrades

A garage in disrepair can raise red flags for buyers. Even small, inexpensive fixes can make a big difference in how your garage presents.

Fix wall damage: Patch up cracks, holes, and scuff marks.

Update lighting: A bright, well-lit garage feels larger and more inviting. Replace old bulbs with LED lights.

Check the garage door: Ensure it opens smoothly and quietly. If it’s dented or outdated, consider repainting or replacing it.

Inspect electrical outlets: Make sure all outlets are functional and safely installed.

Pro Tip: If your garage door is noisy, lubricate the tracks and hinges. A smooth, quiet door feels higher quality.

4. Showcase the Space’s Potential

Help buyers see the possibilities in your garage by making it look as spacious, functional, and appealing as possible.

Highlight storage space – If your garage has built-in storage, pegboards, or overhead racks, show them off.

Organize bikes, tools, and gear – Keeping things neatly arranged makes the space look more usable.

Stage it – If your garage has the potential for a home gym, workshop, or man cave, lightly stage it to give buyers ideas.

Pro Tip: A fresh coat of paint on the garage walls can instantly brighten the space and make it feel cleaner. Stick to neutral colors like light gray or beige.

What NOT to Do When Prepping Your Garage

Don’t use it as last-minute storage. Buyers will see through the attempt to hide clutter!

Don’t ignore odors. Musty, damp smells can be a turn-off.

Don’t overlook safety. Secure any loose tools, chemicals, or exposed wiring.

First Impressions Start Before Buyers Walk Inside

Buyers often see the garage first—either from the driveway or as they enter the home. A messy, outdated garage can create doubts about the entire property, while a clean, organized, and well-maintained garage adds perceived value.

A well-prepped garage isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making buyers feel confident that they’re investing in a well-maintained home.

So, before you list, take some time to declutter, clean, and showcase your garage’s full potential. It’s a simple step that can pay off big when it’s time to sell. 

Thinking about selling? Let’s make sure every inch of your home—including the garage—is ready to impress!

Divorce is an emotional and complex process, and one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to do with the home you’ve built together. For many couples, their home isn’t just a financial asset—it’s filled with memories, routines, and a sense of stability. But when a marriage ends, decisions about the house need to be made, and that can feel overwhelming.

If you’re currently facing this question, know that you’re not alone. Many people struggle with this exact dilemma, and there are options available depending on your financial situation, emotional needs, and long-term plans.

Let’s break down your three main choices when it comes to handling the house during a divorce:

1. Sell the Home and Split the Proceeds

For many couples, selling the home is the cleanest and most straightforward solution. This allows both parties to move forward with a fresh financial start, free from shared obligations. Here’s why this option might make sense for you:

• It provides financial closure. Once the home is sold and the proceeds are divided, there are no lingering mortgage payments or home-related expenses tying you together.

• It reduces future complications. Holding onto a home together post-divorce can be complex, leading to potential financial and legal conflicts down the road.

• It allows both parties to move on. Selling the home can provide a sense of closure and help both individuals establish new routines in separate living spaces.

   

Things to Consider When Selling

Selling a home during or after a divorce does require some coordination. You’ll need to agree on:

• The listing price

• Who will handle the sale logistics (such as staging, showings, and open houses)

• How any remaining mortgage balance, selling costs, and proceeds will be divided
  

A real estate professional who understands the sensitivities of divorce-related sales can help make the process smoother and less stressful.

2. One of You Buys Out the Other

If one person wants to keep the home, a buyout may be a good option. This means that one spouse takes full ownership by buying out the other’s share of the home’s value. Typically, this is done by refinancing the mortgage to remove the other person’s name and ensuring that the staying party can afford the home independently.

How a Buyout Works

• The home’s fair market value is determined (usually through an appraisal).

• The equity in the home is calculated.

• The spouse who stays compensates the other for their share of the equity, either with cash or by offsetting assets in the divorce settlement.

• The mortgage is refinanced to reflect the new sole owner.

   

Is a Buyout Right for You?

A buyout only works if the spouse keeping the home can afford it on a single income. This means qualifying for a new mortgage, covering all homeownership costs, and ensuring that taking on the house won’t create long-term financial strain.

3. Keep the Home Jointly—For Now

While not as common, some divorcing couples choose to hold onto the home jointly for a period of time. This might be a temporary solution to provide stability for children, allow time for the market to improve, or avoid selling at an inopportune time.

Why Some Couples Choose to Keep the Home

• Children’s Stability: If you have kids, keeping them in the same home and school district for a transitional period can be beneficial.

• Financial Timing: If the market isn’t ideal for selling or one spouse isn’t financially ready to move, holding onto the home temporarily may make sense.

• Investment Purposes: Some couples keep a home as a rental property, splitting the rental income.
  

Challenges of Joint Ownership Post-Divorce

While this arrangement can provide short-term stability, it’s not without risks. Maintaining a shared property after divorce requires clear agreements about:

• Who pays the mortgage, taxes, and maintenance costs

• How profits (or losses) will be divided when the home is eventually sold

• What happens if one party wants to sell sooner than the other
  

If you’re considering this option, it’s crucial to have a legal agreement in place outlining the terms of co-ownership.

Which Option is Right for You?

Every divorce is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your finances, emotional well-being, and long-term goals. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when deciding:

• Can I afford to stay in the home on my own?

• Would selling the home provide me with the best fresh start?

• How important is it to maintain stability for my children?

• Do I want to remain financially tied to my ex-spouse in any way?

• What does my future look like—do I want a new home, a new location, or a different lifestyle?
  
  

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Divorce is already a difficult process, and deciding what to do with your home can add another layer of stress. But you don’t have to go through it alone. As a real estate professional who understands the complexities of divorce-related home sales, I can help you explore your options, weigh the pros and cons, and make a decision that aligns with your best interests.

If you’re facing this decision and need guidance, let’s talk. I’ll provide the expertise and support you need to move forward with confidence.

Your kitchen is more than just a cooking space—it’s the heart and soul of your home. Whether you're planning to build, buy, or renovate in Winnipeg or Southern Manitoba, choosing the right kitchen features can elevate your kitchen into a functional and stylish centerpiece for your household. I'm Tabitha Baete, your Buy, Build, or Sell Realtor®️, specializing in Winnipeg and Southern Manitoba real estate. I’m here to share the top five features that every dream kitchen needs. Let’s dive in!

1. Ample Counter Space

When searching for homes for sale in Winnipeg or the surrounding area, many buyers prioritize kitchens with plenty of counter space. Imagine prepping meals without clutter or hosting guests with a spacious island doubling as a serving station. A well-designed kitchen with ample counter space not only adds practicality but also enhances the modern, open-concept feel buyers love.

2. High-Quality Appliances

Whether it’s a sleek, stainless-steel refrigerator, a gas range, or a smart dishwasher, top-quality appliances are a must in luxury homes in Winnipeg. They bring style, energy efficiency, and functionality to your kitchen. Today’s smart appliances also integrate seamlessly with modern home technology, giving you the ultimate convenience. Need appliances? DM for my list of recommended Winnipeg and area vendors.

3. Smart Storage Solutions

When looking at Manitoba property listings, kitchens with innovative storage options stand out. Features like pull-out shelves, hidden compartments, and walk-in pantries help maximize space and minimize clutter. These solutions keep your kitchen organized, making it easier to enjoy your daily routines or host gatherings in style.

4. Durable and Stylish Countertops

Countertops in dream kitchens must be as tough as they are beautiful. Buyers searching for Homes often look for high-end materials like quartz or granite. These surfaces not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also stand up to daily wear and tear. Whether chopping, baking, or entertaining, durable countertops are an investment worth making.

5. Good Lighting

Lighting can make or break the ambiance of a kitchen. Whether you're considering a home in River Heights, St. Vital, or Grande Pointe Meadows or anywhere else in Winnipeg, the right mix of task lighting (under-cabinet LEDs), ambient lighting (recessed fixtures), and statement pieces (pendants over the island) can transform your kitchen into a bright and inviting space.

What’s Your Kitchen Must-Have?

Do you dream of extra counter space or a walk-in pantry? Or maybe you’re envisioning a luxury kitchen with smart appliances? Every homeowner has their kitchen non-negotiables, and I’d love to hear yours! DM me or reach out to share your vision.

I'm Tabitha Baete, your Buy, Build, or Sell Realtor®️, specializing in Winnipeg and Southern Manitoba real estate, and I’m here to help you find or create the kitchen—and home—of your dreams. Ready to take the next step? Contact me today and let’s make it happen!

Refinancing your mortgage is when you replace your existing mortgage agreement with a different one. While the most common reason to refinance your mortgage is to take advantage of significantly lower interest rates to lower your monthly payment, it’s not the only reason for refinance.

If refinancing is something you are interested in, start with a mortgage expert to see if it makes financial sense. Be sure you plan on owning the property long enough to break even on the closing costs of the refinance - that is the time it takes for the closing costs to be covered by the monthly savings.