Saint Andrews is a “CUPPA” Friendly Community

CUPPA Tea – CUPPA Coffee

By John G. Kelly john@activeretirement.ca www.johngkelly.ca

The entire front page of the February 2025 issue of the Atlantic magazine, an iconic source of contemporary public opinion in America, was devoted to a screaming headline “The Anti-Social Century”. It was accompanied with caricatures depicting loneliness spanning the entire age spectrum from genZ to seniors. The article provided a reader-friendly in-depth account of the extent to which a combination of factors ranging from the isolation associated with suburban living, a car-dependent culture, and social media was alienating Americans from their community. Americans, and by that I mean North Americans on both sides of the border, had lost touch with neighbours and their community. To put it bluntly, we’re anti-social. We’re living in a “home alone” environment as a former suburbanite in the Greater Toronto Hamilton area (GTHA) nodded my head in agreement upon reading the article.

But it also brought a smile to my face. My wife Susan and I aren’t living in a home alone environment. We left the suburbia lifestyle behind and are living in Saint Andrews. It’s a classic “Norman Rockwell” type community that’s focused on neighbours being neighbours and embracing community living.

Think of all the British movies you’ve watched where a neighbour just drops in on a neighbour for a “chat”. The first thing the host suggests is that they’ll put on the kettle so they can share a “CUPPA”. A nice cup of tea is the ice breaker and the chat becomes a shared experience. You get a warm feeling just watching the scene and wistfully wondering how you could experience that in your own personal life.

Well, Saint Andrews is a CUPPA friendly community. Neighbours often invite neighbours to drop in for a cuppa. But there’s more to it than just one to one CUPPAs as enjoyable as they are. There are “cuppa community” gatherings of all sorts in Saint Andrews. The town has several bistros that are natural cuppa gathering spots.

I belong to a men’s CUPPA group that meets bi-weekly at the Honeybeans Bistro and Café. It was easy to join. I just showed up. Honeybeans is the real deal that chains like Starbucks desperately try to imitate. The bistro has a wide variety of personalized teas and coffees and homemade muffins and cakes if you want a cuppa and a bite. If you show up regularly the staff gets to know you and you’re greeted with a smile and hello. There’s no rush because having a cuppa with the guys is all about letting go and relaxing, something that so many men forget how to do during their career days and need to relearn. There’s no formal meeting agenda because this isn’t a meeting. It’s a bunch of guys getting together and getting to know one another over a cuppa.

A CUPPA group in Saint Andrews isn’t a guys thing. My wife belongs to a women’s cuppa group that meets once a week at Honeybeans to just talk the talk. And talking the talk isn’t about gossip. It’s about sharing what’s going on in your life with others.

There are CUPPA groups in Saint Andrews that are learning focused. A neighbour decided she wanted to brush up on her French once she moved to Saint Andrews. She found out there was a conversational French cuppa group that met weekly at a downtown coffee shop. She just showed up and was welcomed to the group. The group just talks the talk but it’s all in French. It’s a fun way to make friends and a relaxing way to learn since the talk is all focused on a fun learning experience.

Want a CUPPA experience? Experience Saint Andrews.

The Knowledge & Talent Attraction Town

The Knowledge & Talent Attraction Town
Historic Saint Andrews by the Sea
By

John G. Kelly
B.Com., D.PIR., LL.B.,M.S.Sc., M.A. (Jud.Admin.), F.CIS.
john@activeretirement.ca ; www.johngkelly.ca

America (and Canada) is at the dawn of a wave of internal migration that will spawn an explosion of new types of colleges and universities, reaching deep into our country. Just as every town expects a church, bank branch, post office, coffee house or brewpub, we will see a decentralized network of academies acting as the cornerstones for the post pandemic rebuilding of our society and economy.

Villages, towns and cities that want to tap into talent need to develop and implement a talent attraction plan, determining what mix of talent can contribute best to the future evolution of their location while creating a strong narrative and implementing sufficient change on the ground to establish credibility.

Saint Andrews is a knowledge town. The New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) has a campus that’s within the “15 minute walk” radius of all of the homes in the town plat. Moreover, it easily accessible through a ride share program for residents of Passamaquoddy Lodge, the community’s long -term care (LTC) facility. The college has evolved from a traditional trade school when it was established in 1963 into a vibrant post-secondary diploma and certificate granting institution. Yes, there are traditional skilled trades programs, which interestingly are gaining popularity with the “55+” generation looking to acquire skills they can utilize to apply to customized arts and crafts pursuits.

But there are also core programs that fit with a community where tourism and retirement are anchors. There are now a robust culinary arts and culinary arts management program, practical nursing and a family of Information Technology diploma and certificates. These are the types of programs sought after by Gen X and millennials open to exiting hectic suburban life and shift into vibrant new careers. The tech programs are a natural fit with the burgeoning remote work and gig economy. These all have the potential to open the door for innovative earn while you learn opportunities. And again, they’re all easily accessible from your home base which is just up the road or down the street, depending on where you choose to live.

Saint Andrews is home to the nationally ranked Sunbury Shores Arts & Nature Centre. It’s a non-profit cultural centre that facilitates connections between art and nature. It’s a mecca for both tourists who want a vacation that enables them open a long sought desire to pursue a passion in the arts and crafts and retirees wanting to engage in creative artistic community living. Sunbury Shores provides a broad range of customized courses of varying length that enable participants to find a course that fits with their lifestyle preference and budget. The depth and time- lines of learning are customized to introduce amateurs to a craft or art form as well as enrich the skills of accomplished artists wanting to elevate their artistic capability to an enriched level.

The following is a list of current Sunbury Shores programs to whet your artistic appetite;
Life Drawing, Perspective Drawing, Understanding Contemporary Art, Ceramics Hand Building, Life Size Drawing, Sculptural Paper Collage, Silversmithing Techniques, Colour Confidence, Paining Principles and Practices to Elevate Your Work, Artistic Growth Studio, Acrylics Unleashed, Porcupine Quill Work (Indigenous Culture). Now, what if what you is to take in art exhibits. Sunbury Shores hosts a series of artistic exhibits throughout the year. This is just one more example of the vibrant culture that envelops the town. You’re not going to be sitting around the house relying on Netflix for your visual entertainment. You’ll find yourself taking in an ongoing series of arts exhibits. You’re also going to discover that your neighbours include artists and craftspeople who have decided to make Saint Andrews their home base and neighbours and who, just like you, who aren’t content to chat about the weather but want to engage in invigorating conversation.

Then there’s Kingsbrae Garden. The 27-acre horticultural masterpiece officially opened its gates in the spring of 1998, unveiling an array of over 2,500 species of perennials, as well as, a wide variety of trees and shrubs. Now a major tourist attraction, Kingsbrae Garden has been recognized with a number of major awards for both the product and the services it provides.

Most recently in addition to being ranked the #1 Thing to Do in the Region by Trip Advisor, Kingsbrae Garden was recognized in 2017 for being a top Canadian Garden nationally to visit to celebrate Canada 150 . Kingsbrae is much more than a Garden and with its ever- growing arts and culture base, career and training opportunities have been created in the horticulture, culinary and the arts fields.

David J. Stanly and Dominic D.J. Endicott, Knowledge Towns. Johns Hopkins University Press. Baltimore (2023) at P.1.
Supra at P.33.

How Americans Can Move to St. Andrews, New Brunswick

St. Andrews, New Brunswick, is a hidden gem for Americans looking to invest in Canadian property or enjoy a peaceful seaside lifestyle. With its small population, stunning coastal scenery, and proximity to the U.S. border, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking a second home or considering a move north. If you’re an American interested in relocating to or purchasing property in St. Andrews, here’s what you need to know.

No Foreign Buyer Ban in St. Andrews

Canada has implemented a foreign buyer ban on residential property in many larger cities, but the good news is that this restriction does not apply to St. Andrews. The ban only affects areas with a population of 10,000 or more, and St. Andrews falls below that threshold. This means that as an American, you can buy property here without restrictions, making it an attractive option for those looking for a Canadian retreat.

How Long Can You Stay in Canada?

While owning property in St. Andrews is straightforward, living in Canada year-round requires planning. Without obtaining a visa or permanent residency, U.S. citizens can stay in Canada for up to six months per year. This means that if you purchase a home, you can split your time between Canada and the U.S., but you cannot live here full-time without proper immigration status.

Immigration and Visa Options for Americans

If you’re considering making St. Andrews your permanent home, there are several immigration pathways to explore:

1. Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Visitor Record

Most Americans do not need a visa to visit Canada, but if you wish to stay beyond six months, you may be able to apply for an extension.

2. Work Permits

If you find employment with a Canadian company, you may qualify for a work permit. Certain jobs in high-demand sectors may have a streamlined process.

3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – New Brunswick

New Brunswick has a Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) that allows skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to apply for permanent residency. If you have specialized skills or are interested in starting a business in St. Andrews, this could be a viable option.

4. Express Entry System

Canada’s Express Entry system is a points-based immigration program that assesses candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. If you qualify, this can lead to permanent residency.

5. Family Sponsorship

If you have close family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, they may be able to sponsor you for immigration.

Benefits of Living in St. Andrews

St. Andrews is a charming coastal town with a vibrant community, excellent seafood, and breathtaking ocean views. Some of the benefits of moving here include:

Proximity to the U.S.: Located near the Maine border, you can easily travel back and forth between countries.
Low Crime and High Quality of Life: St. Andrews is known for its safety, friendly residents, and relaxed lifestyle.
Affordable Real Estate: Compared to many parts of the U.S., homes in St. Andrews offer great value for waterfront or small-town living.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities: Enjoy whale watching, hiking, boating, and world-class golf courses right in your backyard.

Start Your Journey to St. Andrews

Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a seasonal getaway, or planning a full-time move, St. Andrews offers a welcoming environment and a straightforward property-buying process for Americans. If you want to explore your options, contact a local real estate expert who can help you find the perfect home and guide you through the process.

If you’re considering immigration, consult with a licensed Canadian immigration consultant or lawyer to determine the best path forward. With the right planning, you could soon be calling St. Andrews home!

Now that’s entertainment! Experiencing Saint Andrews

By John G. Kelly
john@activeretirement.ca www.johngkelly.ca

Whew! Autumn in Saint Andrews is a whirlwind of entertainment. We lived in downtown Toronto for 30 years because we wanted to experience the arts and cultural scene. Coworkers and friends who lived in the “burbs” would tell us about the wonderful once or twice-a-year entertainment experience they had when they fought their way through traffic for an hour and a half and attended an event. But once or twice a year was all they could bear because of the commute stress and the search for parking. Yes, we would respond. We had also attended the event but, for us, to get there and back it was either a leisurely walk or a short subway or streetcar ride. Oh, if only we weren’t trapped in the “burbs” and lived downtown so we could enjoy all those wonderful cultural and entertainment experiences they would say.

Now that we live in Saint Andrews those same friends and acquaintances have asked us how much we must miss all of the arts and entertainment, especially once the tourist season ends. The presumption is that the town supposedly closes down for the fall and winter. Far from it. One of the reasons we chose to live in Saint Andrews when I “came home” to the Bay of Fundy is because it’s a community that’s very much alive with all manner and sorts of cultural and entertainment experiences 12. months a year. And, of course, everything is within that “15-minute walk” that makes small-town living so desirable.

Yes, the summer tourist season draws to a close by October. But then on October 15th -19th Indulge New Brunswick Food and Wine Festival kicks in. The entire downtown is cordoned off. All of the local restaurants offer special “tasters’ choices” of the best of their menus. Portable facilities are set up in the downtown commons and food and beverage vendors within a day’s drive of Saint Andrews set up booths to offer “taste bits” of their specialized menus.

You purchase an Indulge ticket. This entitles you to stroll the street with live band music in the background and sample exotic food. And it is exotic, albeit with a Maritime flavour. This is not about getting hot dog or hamburger on a bun with a side order of fries. Saint Andrews is a premium tourist town. There is a stable of chefs and restaurants that cater to tourists wanting customized cuisine. We get a taste of all that during Indulge. It’s Michelin-ranked food that we could never afford at 5-star restaurants in Toronto but can certainly indulge our food cravings in at maritime prices in Saint Andrews

October/November is also when the fall/winter concert series kicks in. Saint Andrews is fortunate to have a concert organizer who has a national reputation. Jamie Steele is well known in the touring entertainment circuit with links to bands across the country. Among them are Juno award winners. On average, at least once every two weeks there is a nationally ranked performer or band appearing on stage. The genre of the music is popular with a maritime flavour, which for my wife and I who were baroque music aficionados in Toronto, is an opportunity to experience some new and enjoyable entertainment.

There are two performance venues in town with the acoustic capability to support high-quality performances. There is no squirming in uncomfortable seats or straining to hear the full quality of the sound in the performance. In addition, there are what I’ll label as boutique performance venues in Saint Andrews which host baroque and classical music quartets and ensembles.

In a ten- day period spanning two weekends in November, my wife and I took in five musical performances. It started with a cozy cabaret at Salty Towers where you could mix and mingle with the performers. It’s a legendary stopover for musicians across the country who frequent it for a relaxing break and jamming seasons. Then it was on to baroque and a theatre performance with a finale by a nationally renowned one -man classical guitar performance. We needed a bit of a break and were able to wait out an entire week prior to attending a jazz concert.

We were very busy and on the go for that entire ten-day period. But it was the type of activity that doesn’t tire you but energizes you. And of course, we weren’t the least bit tired from all that frantic driving and navigating traffic to get to an event. This all took place in that idyllic small town of Saint Andrews where every event is either that “15-minute walk” or five minute drive on through a beautiful heritage townscape.

This brings us to the two concerts scheduled for December and the Saint Andrews Winter Warmer; an intimate small venue music festival featuring 15 Acts … 12 Shows … 9 Venues … and lots of winter fun activities to enjoy! January 28th – February 2, 2025.

Now, that’s entertainment!

Les and Holly Johnston

Experiencing Saint Andrews Series

It was time for Les and for Holly (nee Mitchell) Johnston to come home. Holly was brought up in Saint Andrews. Les was a New Brunswicker who hailed up north in Denmark. They met at University of New Brunswick (UNB). Upon completion of their studies Les went on to be ordained as a United Church minister. Holly took on various roles in school administration.

Les became a military chaplain. This required them being on the move to a variety of military postings. They can recount having to move and relocate 19 times during his military career. Whew! A visit to Holly’s family home was always a welcome break throughout their busy work lives. And they were busy for a couple who combined work with volunteering in the locales where Les was posted.

When it was time to retire coming home to St. Andrews to share the Mitchell family home with Holly’s mother was an obvious choice. Settling into retirement and small- town living was an adjustment. The pace of living in a small town, although relaxing, was slower. Saint Andrews is an iconic heritage town with an inevitable cliquish culture among some residents who are life-long residents with families have been intertwined for generations.

However, Saint Andrews, like many small towns in the Maritimes is experiencing an influx of new residents who are attracted to the active community culture. People are friendly and if you reside in the town proper, as they do, that “15 minute walk” along Water Street to get what you need includes smiles and hellos from those neighbours you encounter.

Both Les and Holly have been active volunteers in the communities they’ve lived in throughout their married lives. Les is involved in two church committees in the town. Holly is very active in one church committee.

Les, has always had an artistic flair. He’s discovered a passion for stained glass artistry and has been taking stained glass lessons from my wife. He’s already producing his own pieces. Holly loves crafting and has become active in the Linus project making blankets for children in need as well as rug hooking.

Both are avid cribbage players and would be interested in joining and working with a group to set up a Saint Andrews Cribbage Club. Interested?

by John G. Kelly john@activeretirement.ca johngkelly.ca

Investing in Canadian Real Estate: A Guide for Americans Considering St. Andrews, New Brunswick

For Americans looking to invest in real estate beyond the border, Canada offers an appealing mix of scenic beauty, stability, and quality of life—especially in charming seaside towns like St. Andrews, New Brunswick. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to the U.S. border, St. Andrews is a prime destination for those interested in either full-time relocation or part-time residency. This article explores the benefits of investing in Canadian property, with an emphasis on the lifestyle, convenience, and process of buying real estate in St. Andrews.

Why St. Andrews?

Nestled along the shores of the Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews is a quintessential Canadian seaside town with a unique blend of charm, history, and convenience. Just a short drive from the U.S. border, this town offers the opportunity to embrace a slower pace of life without being too far from home. For Americans, it means easy access to a new property while still being able to visit family and friends south of the border. Here’s what makes St. Andrews an attractive place for U.S. investors:

Proximity to the United States
Located close to the Calais, Maine border crossing, St. Andrews makes it easy for Americans to travel back and forth. Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat or a permanent move, the convenience of nearby U.S. amenities and easy return to familiar surroundings is a major plus.
Low Crime and Small-Town Appeal
St. Andrews offers the peace of a small, friendly town with a low crime rate, making it an ideal place for retirees, families, and individuals looking for a safe environment. This is a place where neighbors know each other, and community bonds are strong.
Unmatched Coastal Lifestyle
With its breathtaking views, coastal trails, and access to the Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy activities like kayaking, hiking, and whale watching—all of which are complemented by the charm of local seafood and farm-to-table dining.
Favorable Real Estate Investment
Canadian real estate has long been a sound investment, with steady appreciation in property values. Buying in St. Andrews is particularly appealing because of its unique location and limited real estate inventory, leading to consistent property value growth over time.

The Process of Investing in Canadian Property

The process for Americans to buy Canadian property is straightforward and allows for foreign ownership, with few restrictions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent
Connecting with a St. Andrews-based real estate agent who has experience working with U.S. clients is the best way to understand the local market. Fundy Bay Real Estate can offer insights into neighborhood trends, property values, and the purchasing process.
Financial Requirements
U.S. citizens generally require a 20-35% down payment when buying Canadian property. Mortgage options are available to foreigners, and it’s advisable to work with a financial institution that has experience with cross-border clients.
Obtain Financing
Many Americans secure financing through Canadian banks, although some U.S. banks with branches in Canada may also offer services. It’s essential to understand Canadian mortgage terms, which can differ from those in the U.S.
Legal Considerations
Hiring a local real estate lawyer is essential to assist with legal documentation, especially when dealing with provincial requirements in New Brunswick. Taxes, such as the Land Transfer Tax, should be taken into account as part of the buying process.
Tax Implications
Owning Canadian property may have tax implications in both the U.S. and Canada. Consulting a cross-border tax expert can help clarify your responsibilities, including potential income tax if the property is rented out.

Benefits of Living in Canada

For Americans, owning property in St. Andrews offers not only an investment opportunity but also the benefits of dual-country lifestyle. Canadian residency is not a requirement for ownership, and many Americans divide their time between the U.S. and Canada. New Brunswick offers a slower, seaside lifestyle with a healthcare system available to full-time residents and a welcoming community that values privacy and inclusivity.

Why Now?

The exchange rate, favorable real estate prices, unstable US political and social environment, and potential for property appreciation in New Brunswick make this an excellent time for Americans to invest in Canada. St. Andrews, with its coastal charm, small-town feel, and proximity to the border, is positioned as an appealing option that combines the security of a sound investment with the promise of a peaceful, enriching lifestyle.

Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 50 basis points to 3.75%

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Relations Ottawa, Ontario October 23, 2024

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3¾%, with the Bank Rate at 4% and the deposit rate at 3¾%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization.

The Bank continues to expect the global economy to expand at a rate of about 3% over the next two years. Growth in the United States is now expected to be stronger than previously forecast while the outlook for China remains subdued. Growth in the euro area has been soft but should recover modestly next year. Inflation in advanced economies has declined in recent months, and is now around central bank targets. Global financial conditions have eased since July, in part because of market expectations of lower policy interest rates. Global oil prices are about $10 lower than assumed in the July Monetary Policy Report (MPR).

In Canada, the economy grew at around 2% in the first half of the year and we expect growth of 1¾% in the second half. Consumption has continued to grow but is declining on a per person basis. Exports have been boosted by the opening of the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline. The labour market remains soft—the unemployment rate was at 6.5% in September. Population growth has continued to expand the labour force while hiring has been modest. This has particularly affected young people and newcomers to Canada. Wage growth remains elevated relative to productivity growth. Overall, the economy continues to be in excess supply.

GDP growth is forecast to strengthen gradually over the projection horizon, supported by lower interest rates. This forecast largely reflects the net effect of a gradual pick up in consumer spending per person and slower population growth. Residential investment growth is also projected to rise as strong demand for housing lifts sales and spending on renovations. Business investment is expected to strengthen as demand picks up, and exports should remain strong, supported by robust demand from the United States.

Overall, the Bank forecasts GDP growth of 1.2% in 2024, 2.1% in 2025, and 2.3% in 2026. As the economy strengthens, excess supply is gradually absorbed.

CPI inflation has declined significantly from 2.7% in June to 1.6% in September. Inflation in shelter costs remains elevated but has begun to ease. Excess supply elsewhere in the economy has reduced inflation in the prices of many goods and services. The drop in global oil prices has led to lower gasoline prices. These factors have all combined to bring inflation down. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation are now below 2½%. With inflationary pressures no longer broad-based, business and consumer inflation expectations have largely normalized.

The Bank expects inflation to remain close to the target over the projection horizon, with the upward and downward pressures on inflation roughly balancing out. The upward pressure from shelter and other services gradually diminishes, and the downward pressure on inflation recedes as excess supply in the economy is absorbed.

With inflation now back around the 2% target, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy rate by 50 basis points to support economic growth and keep inflation close to the middle of the 1% to 3% range. If the economy evolves broadly in line with our latest forecast, we expect to reduce the policy rate further. However, the timing and pace of further reductions in the policy rate will be guided by incoming information and our assessment of its implications for the inflation outlook. We will take decisions one meeting at a time. The Bank is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians by keeping inflation close to the 2% target.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is December 11, 2024. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR on January 29, 2025.

Content Type(s): Press, Press releases

Christmas By The Sea 2024

Christmas Holiday Events in St. Andrews New Brunswick

Christmas by-the-Sea in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, is a magical celebration that transforms our quaint coastal town into a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer. From mid-November through December, this festive season is the perfect time to experience the charm and warmth of St. Andrews, where traditions come to life amidst twinkling lights, beautifully decorated streets, and the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Fundy.

As the holiday season unfolds, St. Andrews embraces the spirit of Christmas with cozy gatherings, seasonal decor, and the joyful atmosphere of a small-town celebration. Visitors can stroll through the historic downtown, where local shops and boutiques offer unique gifts, handcrafted treasures, and holiday delights perfect for everyone on your list. The town’s warm and welcoming eateries invite you to savor seasonal specialties, from hot cocoa and freshly baked treats to locally inspired dishes that capture the flavors of the season.

Throughout the festive season, the spirit of togetherness fills the air. Families, friends, and visitors gather to enjoy the simple pleasures of the holidays—whether it’s a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the town’s sparkling decorations, or gathering by the fire with a cup of hot cider. The charm of St. Andrews shines brightest during this time of year, offering an idyllic setting for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Christmas by-the-Sea in St. Andrews is more than just a holiday destination—it’s a celebration of the season’s warmth, joy, and the sense of community that makes small towns so special. With its stunning seaside setting, historic charm, and welcoming spirit, St. Andrews is the perfect place to embrace the magic of the holidays. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a winter getaway, this coastal town invites you to slow down, take in the sights and sounds of the season, and experience the joy of Christmas by-the-Sea. Visit christmasbythesea.ca to learn more and plan your visit.

Why I Chose to Come Home to Saint Andrews by the Sea

Why I Chose to Come Home to Saint Andrews by the Sea, an Idyllic Tourist Town
by John G. Kelly john@activeretirement.ca johngkelly.ca

Yes, I’m a Bay of Fundy Boy and, like so many Maritimers who grow up and leave, I decided to come home. But my exiting the greater Toronto Hamilton area (GTHA) and coming home wasn’t just about finding an affordable place to live in retirement. Although it is true that, as is the case for all escapees from large urban centers like the GTHA , my wife and I were able to have our dream custom home built for less than the price that we sold our condo for back in Toronto. But the choice to relocate to Saint Andrews wasn’t just about building our dream home and putting money in the bank.

Saint Andrews has a well-known reputation as having all the attributes of a Hallmark movie town with a historic town plat replete with heritage homes and a “15-minute walk” main street. And that main street is no run-of-the-mill shopping district. In fact, there is no shopping center. Instead, there is an array of specialty shops that range from customized eateries to arts and crafts boutiques. I’m never more than a five-minute drive or leisurely stroll along the main street gazing in windows displaying one-of-a-kind items that are a pleasure to look at on my way to perhaps an exhibition at the art gallery or concert at one of the local entertainment venues.

By the way, that journey might also be a comparable jaunt for golfers to play 9-18 holes on the heritage Algonquin Resort Hotel’s nationally ranked golf course or a game of tennis. A golf membership and/or daily fee in a comparable club in Toronto would cost 3-4 times the rates of the Algonquin course. Not surprisingly, many non-Maritimers who move to Saint Andrews in their retirement years are golfers in active retirement mode.

Saint Andrews is not a tourist escape. It’s a leisure tourism experience. If you’re a tourist you don’t come to Saint Andrews to sit around. You come to participate in an affordable quality holiday. No holiday is complete without entertainment. There is a weekly series of live concerts encompassing any and all kinds of entertainment by professional artists that those of us who live here get to enjoy with the tourists at prices that are literally half of what you would pay in the major urban centers. I know this personally because my wife and I were baroque music patrons in Toronto and were accustomed to paying premium prices for professional entertainment of that caliber. During the off-season in the dead of winter, we have to make do with bi-weekly concerts which is what we were accustomed to in Toronto, so we’re not missing out and we’re still getting out and about.

Leisure tourism by the sea also includes hikes and walks along the bay. The town has a series of heritage paths and walkways that make hiking or biking a must-do in the summer season. I’ve been an active holiday hiker since my teenage years. I’ve hiked the National Park Rockies and desert treks in Arizona. Saint Andrews is up to par and I’m able to do morning power walks throughout the year. If you want company there are walking clubs you can join that enable you to exercise and make friends with your neighbours.

If you want to wander in a quiet environment there’s Kingbrae Garden. They rival the famous Busch Gardens in Williamsburg Virginia and Tampa Florida and Butchart Gardens in Victoria and I don’t have to take a jet plane to stroll through a world-class garden. A “15-minute walk” will get my wife and me there.

Now there are what you can label as historic sites and venues. Notable among them is Ministers Island, where J.C. Van Horne, the iconic railway baron who built the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) and linked Canada from sea to sea resided in the grandeur of his summer mansion. I’m more than just a visitor to Ministers Island. I’m on the board. Saint Andrews opens the door to opportunities to participate as a volunteer and board member for a number of non-profit and heritage sites and ventures and it’s added a new dimension to my life.

I could go on and will go on in additional posts. But you get the picture. My wife, Susan, and I have decided to embrace active community living in our retirement. Saint Andrews, an iconic heritage tourist town, is the ideal venue to get into it and get on with it as a personalized infrastructure for living life to the fullest. Give some thought to joining the crowd and there is a growing crowd opting out of urban and suburban living and opting into living life to the fullest in Saint Andrews.

Understanding the costs of buying, selling, and refinancing a home in Canada

When buying, selling or refinancing a home, closing costs are an inevitable part of the process.

These costs can catch you by surprise if you’re not adequately prepared. Let’s demystify the closing costs and give you an idea of the potential costs involved.

What are closing costs in a real estate transaction?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses that must be paid when a transaction is finalized. They encompass a wide range of charges depending on which side of the transaction you are on. Some of these costs will be incurred by either the buyer, the seller, or both parties, or in the case of a refinance, by the home owner. Typically, closing costs can range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price of a home for buyers, depending on the specifics of the transaction and location within Canada, and for a refinance it can be as little as a couple thousand dollars, which you may be able to add to the balance of your loan so you have no out of pocket expenses.

Common closing costs when buying a home

Land transfer tax: This tax varies by province and municipality. It is calculated based on the purchase price of the property.
Potential cost: a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will handle the legal aspects of the transaction. These fees may include title searches, title registration, and the preparation of necessary documents.
Potential cost: $1,500 to $3,000 or more
Title insurance: This one-time cost protects against potential issues with the property’s title, such as disputes over ownership. Typically required by lenders for their protection at your cost, homeowners can get an add on to protect themselves as well.
Potential cost: $150 to $500 or more
Property appraisal: Conventional or lower loan-to-value mortgages may require an appraisal to determine the fair market value.
Potential cost: $300 to $600 or more
Home inspection: Although optional, a home inspection is highly recommended to identify any potential issues with the property.
Potential cost: $500 to $800 or more
Property tax adjustments: Depending on when your home purchase closes, you may need to reimburse the seller for any property taxes already paid. Alternatively, you may receive a credit from the seller for any property taxes that have not been paid for the year.
Mortgage default insurance: If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you’ll need mortgage default insurance. This can cost between 2.8% and 4% of the mortgage amount. This insurance can be added to your mortgage balance. Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan also charge provincial sales tax on this insurance, which must be paid at closing.

Common closing costs when selling a home

Real estate commissions: The seller typically pays the commission for both the buyer’s and seller’s Realtor, usually between 3% and 5% of the sale price plus any applicable taxes, such as GST/HST.
Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will verify the legal ownership of the property and clear any liens or charges against the title.
Potential cost: $1,000 to $3,000 or more
Mortgage discharge fees: Charged by your lender to close out your mortgage.
Potential cost: $200 to $500
Mortgage pre-payment charges: Depending on when your mortgage term is up, you may incur pre-payment penalties.
Potential cost: 3-months’ interest or the Interest Rate Differential (IRD)
Repairs and maintenance: Any agreed-upon repairs or maintenance to be completed before the sale.

Closing costs when refinancing a home

Appraisal fees: The lender will require an appraisal to determine the fair market value.
Potential cost: $300 to $600 or more
Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will verify the legal ownership of the property and register the new mortgage.
Potential cost: $1,000 to $3,000 or more
Mortgage discharge fees: Charged by the current lender to close out the existing mortgage.
Potential cost: $200 to $500
Title insurance: This may be required by your new lender to protect against title-related issues during refinancing.
Potential cost: $150 to $500 or more
Mortgage pre-payment charges: If breaking the existing mortgage term, you may be charged pre-payment penalties of three months’ interest or the Interest Rate Differential (IRD) depending on your original mortgage terms.

Get expert help today

Understanding closing costs in any real estate transaction is crucial. By anticipating these expenses and budgeting accordingly, you can avoid financial surprises.

Get in touch with me today for personalized advice and support with your next real estate transaction! I work with some exceptional professionals and can connect you with a Realtor, lawyer, notary, or inspector in your area to help determine the specific costs tailored to your situation.

Cindy MacFarland
Mortgage Broker
(506) 647-1164
cindy.macfarland@mortgagegrp.com