If you’ve been spending more time in or on the water lately, you’re not alone 💦. With the hot, sunny stretch we’ve had, beaches, lakes, and pools have been busier than ever. It’s been a great reminder of why we love calling Muskoka home, even during the dog days of summer. 😎

While it’s been perfect for lazy afternoons on the dock and refreshing dips in the lake, it’s also a stark reminder of the ongoing wildfire risks across Ontario. Please remember to stay vigilant—check for local fire bans before burning, keep your property clear of dry brush, and be mindful when out enjoying nature.

A big conversation around our office is the newly enacted new changes to its Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) bylaw (in Huntsville) aimed at encouraging more long-term housing, enhancing community integration, and strengthening rental oversight

Key Updates (Effective Immediately):

• Ownership Requirement: Hosts must now own their property for at least 12 months before using it for short-term rentals. First-year owners are still allowed to use their property for personal use or long-term rentals (30+ days). Existing 2025 STRA license holders within their first year of ownership are exempt from this rule
• License Cap: Only 250 STRA licenses will be issued annually—this modest increase from 224 issued in 2024 allows for controlled growth. Licenses will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis 
• Strike System Revised: To discourage repeat offenses, non-compliance strikes will now accumulate over two years (instead of one), with license revocation triggered after three strikes in that period 
• Zoning Restrictions: STRAs will no longer be permitted in the Urban Low Density (UR1) zone under the Community Planning Permit bylaw. Existing STRAs in that zone may remain active—but if they go unused for more than two years, the exemption will lapse 

The changes are complex, and navigating them will require both local knowledge and a clear understanding of the new bylaw.

Our team is here to help you interpret how these updates apply to your property, whether you’re considering buying, selling, or adjusting your rental strategy. Together, we can help you make informed decisions and turn these changes into opportunities.

Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the rest of your summer! ✌️

– Dave, Mel & Jason 

In this edition:

• Canada’s housing market is splitting in two
• The best mortgage rates in Canada right now
• Town of Huntsville implements changes to its Short-Term Rental Accommodation Bylaw
• From Umbrella Academy to Hockey Night in Muskoka to Adult Camp not for kids, so much fun to be had  

News and Updates

A few good reads:

• Canada’s housing market is splitting in two
• Canadian Home Sales ‘Turn A Corner’ In June, But CREA Calls For A Cautious Road Ahead
• The best mortgage rates in Canada right now
• Town of Huntsville implements changes to its Short-Term Rental Accommodation Bylaw
• Cyclists ride through Muskoka and raise $1.57M for cancer research
• Mayor says Huntsville is pulling all the stops for more affordable housing in the community
• Up to 500 residential units proposed for Muskoka Highlands golf course 

July 2025 Market Stats 📈

We are happy to announce that our market stats are available, click here to download the Muskoka & Parry Sound region Stats.

Must See’s In Muskoka

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