Sellers who are pricing their properties realistically are seeing positive results. There are lots of Buyers out there looking but they are not offering unless there is real perceived value. We are in a Sellers' market.  Demand is high and inventory is low which is driving up prices. Most buyers are coming from the GTA and southwestern Ontario.  It seems that everyone wants to 'escape from the city' !   

Most of my listings are now featured on my own YouTube channel, SusanEBrown, with professional slide shows/videos to highlight the special features and benefits of each property. In addition all my listings are now on the Chestnut Park mobile web site. In addition Chestnut Park is now the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate. Ask me about how this can help with the marketing of your property.

If you are thinking of buying now is an excellent time. There are some really great properties listed on our MLS system. Contact me at 705-789-1001 or toll free from Canada or the USA at 1-877-789-1003 or by email at susanbrown@chestnutpark.com for a private and complimentary consultation to discuss your buying needs/wants.

To request a copy of the current Chestnut Park Market Report or for specific market data for the area and/or type of property you are interested in, please contact me directly at susanbrown@chestnutpark.com

From Lakeside Listings to Lifelong Lessons: Reflections on a Career in Muskoka

BY Susan Brown, Broker

Over the 36 years I’ve been a full-time Realtor in the Huntsville and Lake of Bays area, I’ve witnessed extraordinary change — not just in real estate, but in how we live, work, and connect.

When I first started in real estate in 1990, after moving here from Toronto, the fax machine had just been invented. No agents had their own computers, and only a handful had those bulky “shoebox” car phones — we didn’t call them cell phones back then. It would still be a few years before I had a mobile phone of my own.

Listings were published weekly in blue 8½” x 11” paperback books by the local Real Estate Board. By today’s standards, it sounds like ancient history — and in many ways, it is.

Cottage image – it has been in our family since 1936.  It’s the oldest cottage on our Lake (Waseosa) and was built about 1920, possibly earlier.



One thing I want to say — especially to newer agents — is that it’s perfectly okay to be a solo agent.

The Strange, the Funny, and the Scary

Over the years, I’ve experienced more than my share of bizarre situations. Some were funny. Some were unsettling. A few were genuinely frightening.

At times, I brought my husky/wolf dog, Skye, along on showings. If I ever felt a bad vibe from a buyer, Skye came in with me on his leash. He was well trained, and there was never an incident — but I learned early on to trust my instincts.

One of the scariest moments of my career happened when I was showing a cottage that seemed absolutely perfect for my buyers, who were driving up from the city specifically to see this one property. I arrived a few minutes early to open up and turn on the lights.

As I stepped out of my car, a middle-aged man emerged from the cottage holding a rifle and told me to leave — that the property was no longer for sale.

It turned out he was the son of the owner, who had passed away, and he believed the cottage now belonged to him. Legally, it didn’t. I wasn’t about to argue. I got back in my car, called my clients, and told them to turn around.

Looking back, I probably should have reported the incident to the police. But it reinforced an important lesson: always let someone know where you’re going and check in with them.

Another time, I stopped by one of my vacant listings — a lovely older home filled with charm — only to discover that someone had been living there. A woman had essentially moved in and was camping inside the house.

She wasn’t there at the time, but the police were called and later found her. She had escaped from a psychiatric ward and was completely delusional, believing the house had been left to her by her grandmother. It hadn’t. She was in no way related to the Sellers.

Apparently at some time in the past she had seen the house from the outside and liked it. Then began to believe the fictitious story that it was her house. She was returned to the hospital, and I never learned what became of her.

And Yes… Haunted Houses

Then there are the haunted houses. Oh yes — quite a few of them.

Some were homes where suicides or murders had taken place. Others were properties where someone had passed away and wasn’t discovered for many days.

In one memorable case, I was listing a home where the adult children were handling the sale of their late mother’s estate and were living in the house temporarily. Their mother had lived in the house for many years, and it seemed her spirit wasn’t quite ready to leave.

I asked, “Did the previous owner pass away in the house?”

Their response still gives me chills:

“We’ve had some very strange happenings since moving in. One night we were sitting in the great room — Dave on the couch, me in the chair — and Dave felt someone sit beside him. There was even a dent in the couch.

The TV shuts off for no reason. We hear what sounds like a bicycle bell ringing, but we can’t find anything that would make that sound.

One morning the dishwasher turned itself on while no one was in the kitchen. Another night we heard a huge bang from the front of the house, but nothing had moved.

We’re not freaked out — more curious. And honestly, if she wants to do my dishes, that’s fine with me.”

The Best Part of the Job

On a much happier note, I’ve met hundreds — probably thousands — of truly wonderful people over the years. Most people are lovely.

I’ve helped families find their dream properties and helped others navigate necessary change, especially seniors who are ready to downsize. Many clients have become lasting friends.
One thing I want to say — especially to newer agents — is that it’s perfectly okay to be a solo agent. There’s a lot of pressure today to join a team, and that works beautifully for some people. But it isn’t the only path.

For me, being solo has worked extremely well. With the incredible administrative and marketing support at Chestnut Park, it’s absolutely doable. I don’t thrive in an office setting — I thrive out in the world, working from home, on the road, meeting people. I love the daily variety.

Life Beyond Real Estate

Work-life balance has always been important to me. Recently, I’ve volunteered at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary — brushing deer, feeding lynx, and eventually leading tours for the public.

I also volunteer at Muskoka Heritage Place in Huntsville on the Acquisitions Committee, helping determine which donated items meet the criteria to be accepted. While I specialize in waterfront property, I have a deep appreciation for historical homes and buildings. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of listing and selling some of the oldest and most charming cottages on Muskoka’s lakes.

What I’ve Learned

The most important lesson I’ve learned — and truly embraced — is the value of genuinely caring and truly feeling empathy for clients. If you sincerely practice this, you’ll be rewarded not just financially, but emotionally as well.

After 36 years, that’s what matters most.

1. What is fractional ownership or shared cottage ownership?

It is a form of carefree, shared ownership of a vacation residence in a prime location. At Blue Water Acres, you will own a 1/10th share (Interval) of your beautifully furnished cottage as well as an undivided share of the entire property and facilities. You only pay a percentage of taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance via an annual Maintenance Fee, paid in two installments.

2. What kind of Accommodation do you have?

The fractional cottages are all fully detached dwellings spaced for privacy. They are two and three- bedroom units and come in four beautiful styles. All have air conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen with gas range and dishwasher. Most units have two bathrooms and a washer / dryer or access to a laundry facility. All units have a 4-season Muskoka Room.

3. What kind of Recreational facilities do you offer?

As an owner, you’ll be able to enjoy all the resort amenities. There’s an indoor pool including a whirlpool and sauna. Lots of fun activities are available in the Activity Centre including fitness centre and games room furnished with pool tables, shuffleboard, foosball and ping pong. Kids will enjoy an outdoor playground. There is an Owners Lounge with a big screen TV, piano and more. Outside you can relax on the sandy beach, play tennis or pickleball at one of our three tennis courts, hike, nature-watch or anything else you’re inspired to do. You have free use of canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddle boats and paddle boards. In winter, there’s snowshoeing, skating and tubing on site. Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding are minutes away.

4. What kind of local attractions and services are in the area?

Muskoka has many fun things to do and see year-round. The area is well-known for its rich culture, trendy shopping and exceptional dining. Blue Water Acres is located 15 minutes from Algonquin Provincial Park and Arrowhead Provincial Park - famous for its Ice-Skating Trail Fire & Ice nights. You’ll never be more than a few minutes away from a number of great golf courses. Muskoka boasts six boat cruises which allow you to see the area from a whole new perspective. The opportunities are endless…

5. Who owns the property?

The Land and Buildings are owned by the Blue Water Acres Cottage Owners Association, the registered owner of the property. The Association is a debt free-not for profit corporation. For each five-week interval purchased, you will receive one membership in the Blue Water Acres Cottage Owners Association. This innovative approach makes vacations more enjoyable and affordable.

6. What are the Maintenance Fees?

Annual maintenance fees cover the cost of cottage cleaning, grounds maintenance, repairs, property taxes, insurance, and utilities for all units and common elements. All interval owners share these costs. Annual maintenance fees are in the range of $4,629 to $5,677 (+HST) per five-week interval, per Interval, depending on the size of the cottage in which you own an interval. Maintenance fees include a contribution to the reserve fund.

7. Can I sell my share?

Shares may be held for generations in perpetuity or may be sold, transferred or willed at the wish of the shareholder.

8. How are my five weeks chosen each year?

Ownership of a five-week interval allows each owner five (5) weeks of exclusive use of the cottage every year. It allows for the use of the summer week you reserve (your core week which never changes) at the time of purchase, and one week in each of the fall, winter, and spring seasons, plus one “additional” week. All your weeks are for the particular cottage you purchase a fraction of. Your non-summer weeks rotate one place each year to provide each owner seasonal variety. Each season, including the “additional week”, is ten weeks in length. Annual calendars are provided at the time of purchase which detail the weeks available to you so you can plan your holidays or exchange programs well in advance.

9. Can we loan our cottage to friends and family or rent our cottage?

Absolutely. If you are unable to use your cottage, you can let your family or friends enjoy it or rent it on your own or through the rental program set up by Management to help rent the weeks you don’t wish to use. You must, however, notify management in advance of the individuals who will be occupying your unit. If you rent it out yourself you keep 100% of the rental income. If it’s rented out by Blue Water Acres you keep 50% of the rental income. Rental rates in 2026 for a Deerview cottage range from $2,340/week to $3590/week + HST depending on the time of year. Rental rates for an Algonquin cottage range from $2,534/week to $4,137/week + HST depending on the time of year.

10. Are there regulations concerning the number of people sleeping in your residence?

Yes, no more than eight individuals may stay in a three-bedroom cottage or six individuals in a two- bedroom cottage. Larger two-bedroom cottages may sleep up to seven individuals. Number of individuals includes adults and children regardless of age.

11. Is there a Beach?

There is a wonderful, safe, sandy beach at the resort on 300 feet of shoreline. Water is very shallow at the shoreline and slopes gradually making it safe for children. By the end of June, the water temperatures are typically between 20 and 25 degrees C (70 to 80 degrees F.) There are umbrellas, Muskoka chairs and lounge chairs on the beach. There is a swimming raft and water slide in the water.

12. Can I keep a boat at Blue Water Acres?

Yes. You can keep your boat moored at resort docks during your weeks of occupancy. Docking space is on a first come basis. There is plenty of docking available. A public launch is located very close by. Owners will also be able to enjoy the use of canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, paddle boats, and row boats during their stay.

13. Are pets allowed?

To ensure that all owners can feel comfortable and to minimize the risk of disturbances, pets are not permitted. There are excellent kennels nearby.

14. Is smoking allowed indoors?

No smoking or vaping is allowed in cottages or common indoor facilities at any time.

15. How and when is Housekeeping and Maintenance done?

Every week, each cottage is completely cleaned, linens changed, inventory checked, etc. so that your cottage will be spotless and ready for you when you arrive. Grounds maintenance is continuous and there is always a number that you can call if you need assistance. Major repairs and maintenance are accomplished during one of the two maintenance weeks each year in April and November.

16. Can we have ‘exchange privileges’ with other resorts around the world?

Yes. You can purchase membership in Interval International, a worldwide exchange company that gives you access to a network of international fractional properties making it possible to exchange any of your weeks for others in more than 1500 affiliated resorts in nearly 75 countries. A three-year membership can be purchased for approx. $350. If you buy a new Interval, the membership fee is included for the first three years. www.intervalworld.com

17. What is the drinking water like?

The water provided to the cottages is potable. It comes from the lake and then goes through filtration, Ultraviolet, and chlorination. It is tested daily by maintenance and monthly by an independent contractor that tests for the Ministry. A brand-new Fast System was installed in 2008. There is also an up-to-date water treatment system which is always maintained.

18. Are there lockers?

There are lockers for the Muskokan cottages only. They are located in the downstairs section of those units. The locker area includes 10 fenced-in lockers which are about 4 x 6 each. There is no shelving inside the lockers. Most people keep storage bins and things like extra carpets, ski equipment etc. in them.

19. Are there BBQs for every unit?

Yes. Every cottage has a BBQ. The BBQ’s all have a direct propane line, so no tank is required. The cost of propane is included in the maintenance fee.

20. Do owners require their own insurance?

Owners do not require their own insurance. The resort insurance policy covers the replacement of the cottage and all the cottage contents.

21. Are there any additional fees when I purchase a fraction at BWA?

There is a transfer fee ($250) and certificate fee ($25) for a total of $275 which is paid on closing.

Picture waking up to the shimmer of Lake of Bays, breathing in the crisp Muskoka air, and stepping out onto your cottage deck with a morning coffee in hand. No packing, no hotel check-ins — just your own beautifully appointed cottage in one of Ontario's most coveted destinations. This is Blue Water Acres, and it's closer and more attainable than you might think.

Located at 1052 Rat Bay Road on Portage Bay, Blue Water Acres is a premier resort community nestled in the heart of Muskoka's stunning Lake of Bays region. Whether you're a family from Toronto looking for a summer sanctuary, empty nesters craving a four-season retreat, or outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure year-round, Blue Water Acres has been designed with you in mind.

Through an innovative fractional ownership model, you can own a share of a fully furnished, professionally maintained cottage — and enjoy all the pleasures of Muskoka cottage life without the burden of full ownership costs. It is one of the smartest lifestyle investments available in Ontario today.

How Close Are You? Closer Than You Think.

Blue Water Acres is a surprisingly easy drive from Southern Ontario's major urban centres. When Friday afternoon arrives, your Muskoka escape is just around the corner:

The journey north is half the adventure. Leave the city behind, watch the landscape open up into rolling hills and gleaming lakes, and feel your stress dissolve with every kilometre. Blue Water Acres is easily accessible via Highway 400 North to Highway 11, making it a straightforward, scenic drive from virtually anywhere in Southern Ontario.

Click here to view our 2026 Blue Acres brochure.

If you are like most cottage owners you’ll only use your cottage several weeks per summer, 3 to 5 weekends, and take a vacation abroad every few years. That’s a lot of cost for your cottage for so little use. There is a better way!

Fractional ownership is built on the concept that you purchase a fraction of an asset based on the amount of time you plan to actually use it. You also only pay for a percentage of taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance. Assume you buy a 5 week interval for $73,000. Your annual maintenance fees will be between $4,538-$5,561 depending on cottage style.

Everything is paid for including all maintenance work and cottage cleaning. In addition, you also have the use of many recreational amenities that don’t come with outright cottage ownership. It’s a practical, totally carefree alternative. You can even exchange one or more weeks for a resort abroad, saving even more money. You can buy more than one interval giving you more weeks in the summer and additional weeks other times of the year. Even if you use most your time on weekends only, you’ll still be financially way ahead.

THE ALGONQUIN

• From $438/day or $2534/wk
• Larger 2 bedroom Cottage
• 958 sq’ (89 sq meters) including Muskoka Room

ALGONQUIN FEATURES

• Living room with propane fireplace
• Full kitchen with a dishwasher
• One bathroom with tub/shower
• Second bathroom features a stand up shower
• Master bedroom with a king size bed
• Second bedroom with a bunk bed that has a lower double bed and a single upper bed
• Heating/Air Conditioning
• Washer/dryer
• Three season Muskoka Room
• Deck with glass railings and a propane barbecue
• Accommodation for up to 6 people

THE MEADOWVALE

View this recently sold Other or see all my home sales

View this recently sold House or see all my home sales

View this recently sold Waterfront Building Lot or see all my home sales

View this recently sold Cottage/House or see all my home sales