Dan DaCosta Real Estate Group

Buying a fixer-upper can be a smart way to get into a desirable neighborhood or build equity fast — but it’s not always as simple as TV makes it look. Before you grab your hammer and vision board, here are five key things to consider if you're thinking about buying a property that needs some work. 1. Condition of the Property Fixer-uppers come in all shapes and sizes — from simple cosmetic updates to full gut jobs. Knowing what you’re walking into is crucial. You’ll need to either have (or hire) skills in project management, budgeting, and construction to tackle the renovation successfully. If you’re not hands-on, make sure you have a team you trust — and a realistic sense of how much time and effort is involved. 2. Renovation Costs & Budget One of the most common mistakes buyers make is underestimating renovation costs. Before you even make an offer, get rough estimates on major upgrades — kitchen, bath, roof, electrical, etc. And always build in a 15–20% contingency for unexp...

There’s something undeniably magical about living on the water—coffee on the dock at sunrise, a kayak always at the ready, and those peaceful, soul-soothing views. In a city like Kingston, with Lake Ontario on one side and the Rideau Canal and Cataraqui River winding through it, waterfront dreams are alive and well. But before you trade your snow shovel for a paddleboard, let’s take a closer look: Is living waterfront in Kingston really the dream—or could it be a money pit in disguise? The Dream 1. Unbeatable Views & Lifestyle Kingston's waterfront properties offer some of the best vistas in Ontario—sunsets over Lake Ontario, sailboats gliding by, and maybe even the Wolfe Island ferry chugging along. If peace and nature are high on your priority list, it's hard to beat. 2. Private Access to Adventure Imagine launching your kayak or boat from your own backyard. Fishing, swimming, paddling—it's all right there. No trailer, no lines, no launching fees. Just you and the wa...

Let’s be honest—buying your first home can feel like a blend of hope, caffeine, and mild financial panic. But fear not, brave homebuyer! If you’re looking to put down roots in Kingston (where even the squirrels seem friendlier), here are five neighbourhoods that won’t break the bank or your spirit. 1. Kingscourt – The Underdog That’s Winning the Race You know that friend who used to be a bit rough around the edges but suddenly got a good job, cut their hair, and started bringing salad to lunch? That’s Kingscourt. Affordable homes, a growing young family vibe, and proximity to downtown make this neighbourhood a smart move. Plus, the houses still come with enough yard for a barbecue and a questionable attempt at gardening. Vibe: Up-and-coming meets “I swear we’ll fix the sidewalk next year.” Bonus: You’re 5 minutes from downtown, and maybe 7 minutes from regretting that downtown parking job. 2. Rideau Heights – A Neighbourhood on the Glow-Up Yes, yes—Rideau Heights used to have a repu...

If you're one of the many Kingstonians wondering who exactly is steering the ship of our fine city—you’re not alone. Municipal government can feel like a distant machine humming in the background of our daily lives. But in reality, it’s the heartbeat of Kingston’s future. From filling potholes and shaping new developments, to zoning decisions and affordable housing—our local government holds the power to Make Kingston Great. Kingston is governed by a Mayor and twelve City Councillors, each representing one of our city's unique districts. Together, they form City Council, where decisions are made on everything from transit and infrastructure to parks, libraries, and housing. It’s where vision meets budget and where your vote becomes action. Council operates on a four-year term and holds regular public meetings, giving residents a chance to stay informed—and get involved. So who are these people we've entrusted with the city’s future? Let’s take a closer look: Mayor Bryan Pat...

When people tell me they’re thinking of moving to Kingston, my first question is always: “Are you a West-Ender… or a Downtown Dweller?” It’s the kind of debate that’s torn friendships apart and split Sunday brunch tables in half. Okay, maybe not that dramatic—but your choice of neighbourhood definitely changes your Kingston experience. So let’s settle this with a friendly face-off: West End vs. Downtown. Downtown Kingston – Charm, Character & Cobblestones Ah yes, the historic heart of the city. Where limestone buildings whisper tales of Canada’s first capital, and every second house has a plaque or a ghost story. Who lives here? Young professionals, students, artists, government workers, and people who say things like, “I don’t own a car—I walk everywhere.” Perks: Walkable to shops, cafes, bars, and the waterfront Farmers’ Market at Springer Market Square Historic homes and quirky architecture Kingston’s best people-watching (seriously, unmatched) But... Parking can be a competi...