Our daughter was bitten by a rattlesnake. Fear and Ignorance isn’t the answer!

http://www.thephillipsteam.ca/our-blog

Our daughter was bitten by a rattlesnake.  Fear and Ignorance isn’t the answer!

Let’s take a responsible approach to co-existing with rattlesnakes in cottage country! 

Lately, we have been reading all about the uprising of rattlesnake ‘attacks’ in cottage country and quite frankly, I am quite disappointed.  Let me begin by saying that I am not the biggest fan of rattlesnakes, or snakes in general.  They scare me.  However, I do have a healthy respect for them and understand their role and importance in our environment. 

We have been enjoying the cottage experience on Georgian Bay for a very long time. In fact, my family has been coming to the Bay for generations. We love its wild beauty and the organic ruggedness of her shores.  We love how it makes us feel alive and how we can enjoy its mostly untouched environment and experience nature in all of its glory. It is definitely for the adventurous and the wild at heart!

Part of the beauty and allure of Georgian Bay is its creatures of which the rattlesnake is one.  We have seen many rattlesnakes over the years and I can even tell you that our youngest daughter was bitten by one 6 years ago on her birthday of all days.  And yet, it bothers me to no end to hear about their villain-like, attacking nature.  Although I was understandably VERY upset when our daughter was bitten, I have had time to reflect and come to a better understanding of these reptiles.  I have come to a place of respect and knowledge, rather than ignorance and fear.  

Our daughter’s story is unique and worth telling.  On Nikki’s 15th birthday, we we all gathered at the family cottage on Georgian Bay.  Our youngest daughter and our two grown children, their partners, my parents…we were all here (I write from there now). It was a special time as my father had terminal cancer and was in his final days.  The time was sacred and my dad wanted to be on the Bay.  He wanted to be with family.  He just loved to go out in the boat and fish along the shores of the Bay, exclaiming that “he had already died and gone to heaven.” 

For this birthday, we chose to surprise Nikki with a mountain bike.  We were so excited to see her face light up when she saw it.  We had gone to great lengths to get it to our water access property without her knowing! Needless to say she was thrilled when she received her gift and promptly jumped on it and took off over the septic bed.  That young girl wasn’t on that bike 30 seconds and she had launched herself off of the septic bed and was flying through the air.  30 seconds later, she was calling for her dad and requesting that I stay on the deck.  10 minutes later, Gary was taking our daughter to the Parry Sound Emergency department to have the back of her leg sewn back together.  Not exactly what we had envisioned as part of a birthday celebration! 

While Gary and Nikki were at the hospital, I made a large birthday dinner to celebrate our birthday week (Gary and our 3 children all have birthdays in the same week). Several hours later, they were on their way back from the hospital and dinner was prepared and waiting. We were excited to continue with our birthday celebration.  When I saw the boat lights approaching the dock, I ran down to the boat to greet my wounded daughter. “Dinner is ready and waiting,” I exclaimed.  We were thrilled that they were back.  We proceeded to walk up the path to the cottage, when Nikki yelled, “a snake!”  She jumped out of the way as we peered down at the rattlesnake on the rock.  Of course, we all avoided it and chuckled at Nikki’s ongoing misfortune - “almost bitten by a rattler!”  Well, we commented too soon.  When we got up to the cottage, we took a moment to look at the extensive stitches that Nikki had received,  sewing the back of her leg together.  It was significant.  However, as we were looking at her stitches, we glanced at her other leg only to see two holes with blood dripping down from them. She had been bitten by a rattlesnake! We looked in disbelief.  How could this be? 

We made the appropriate phone calls to EMS,  and promptly escorted Nikki back to the boat.  Expecting us, the Parry Sound Emergency department was on standby.  As we entered the Emergency Room doors, Gary and Nikki were greeted by hospital staff as well as those they had met hours earlier while waiting to be ‘stitched up.’ “Why are you back?” they questioned.  They truly did not expect to hear that she had been bitten by a rattlesnake on her other leg. It was somewhat surreal, and extremely unnerving!

Nikki was kept at the hospital for 24 hours.  We did not leave her side.  The West Parry Sound hospital’s rattlesnake bite protocol is amazing! The staff were amazing!  Nikki was amazing! We learned that Nikki had received a dry bite. A dry bite is a warning bite where very little or no venom is released.  Nikki was very fortunate and received very little venom in her system and  thankfully did not require the anti-venom treatment.  

To this day, Nikki loves snakes and all forms of wildlife. She has a great respect for rattlesnakes, but she is not afraid of them.  After all, the snake that bit her gave her a warning bite rather than a venomous bite! We continue to live, work and play on Georgian Bay and rattlesnakes are around.  We have heard many stories, have lived our own experience, and have chosen to learn more about these creatures.  They are part of our environment and they are living in their habitat. We need to learn more about rattlesnakes, to become educated and understanding rather than to respond in fear and ignorance. Yes, there have been rattlesnake bites this year, but why? What were the circumstances? How could they have been prevented? How many were dry bites? What should we be learning and teaching our children about rattlesnakes? In our opinion, generating fear, loathing and disrespect for this reptile is irresponsible and unenlightened.  Let’s take some time to understand rattlesnakes and to develop a healthy respect for them.  We don’t have to love snakes, but we do think that we do need to take a responsible approach to co-existing with them in cottage country!

Here’s a few things that we have learned: 

Prevention: 

1. Rattlesnakes do not want to be around humans 
2. Large rattlesnakes have the ability to give warning (or dry) bites
3. Smaller rattlesnakes are less likely to be able to give a warning bite and consequently their bites can be more potent 
4. Rattlesnakes do not want to be around us
5. Rattlesnakes like warm places to heat their bodies, especially during mating and birthing seasons
6. Rattlesnake bites are mostly preventable; most happen on the foot
7. When walking in brush and in wetlands, wear socks, boots and long pants
8. Don’t stick your hands under rocks and brush without taking a peek first
9. Listen when you are walking; rattlesnakes let you know they are there 
10. Back away slowly if you encounter a rattlesnake; they will not chase or attack you
11. Wear socks and shoes at night. Carry a flashlight to see where you are walking

If you are bitten:

1. Stay calm and reduce movement
2. Clean the wound with soap and water
3. Call Emergency Services - 911 
4. Do not apply ice or a tourniquet
5. Do not cut or apply suction to the bite area
6. Remove clothing and jewelry around the area as it may swell

Remember to try and stay calm and to soothe the person that has been bitten. Watch for swelling, discolouration, dizziness, pain at the site, blurred vision, heavy sweating and prickling in other parts of the body as this is a sign of a venomous bite. Look for signs of shock such as paleness, rapid heartbeat, enlarged pupils, fast breathing and nausea.  Lay the person down and cover them if you notice these signs. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. And remember to assure the person that help is on the way and that very affective rattlesnake bite treatment and protocols are available.  

For more information visit: 

West Parry Sound Health Centre

Massasauga Rattlesnake Provincial Antivenom Depot

https://www.wpshc.com/index.php/ontario-antivenom-depot-117

Great Lakes Water Quality & Levels

Water quality and the water levels in the Great Lakes has been a concern to many in cottage country for some time. Georgian Bay water levels were falling at a significant rate for a number or years, however in the last two years we have seen an unprecedented rise in the water levels. The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement between Canada and the United States has led to a coordinated effort between the two countries and information is readily available for us to track the information being shared. Below is some information about the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) and Weekly Great Lakes Water Level information shared through the US Army Corps of Engineers.

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement with the United States:

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) is an agreement between Canada and the United States, first signed in 1972.  It contributes to the quality of life of millions of Canadians by identifying shared priorities and coordinating actions to restore and protect the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the waters of the Great Lakes.

In amending the agreement in 2012, the Governments of Canada and the United States have committed to a shared vision of a healthy and prosperous Great Lakes region in which the waters of the Great Lakes, through their sound management, use, and enjoyment, provide benefits to present and future generations. To this end, Canada and the United States recognize the importance of taking action, resolving existing environmental issues and anticipating and preventing future problems.

Through the GLWQA, Canada and the United States, in consultation and cooperation with other levels of government, First Nations and Métis organizations, businesses, non-governmental entities, and the public will develop programs, technologies and other measures necessary to better understand the Great Lakes ecosystem, and to restore and protect water quality and ecosystem health.

Source:
Environment Canada
https://www.ec.gc.ca/grandslacs-greatlakes/default.asp?lang=En&n=45B79BF9-1 Retrieved January 10, 2015

Weekly Great Lakes Water Levels:

The Great Lakes basin experienced normal temperatures last weekend. During the early part of the work week temperatures plunged across the area  as a blast of arctic air moved in with daytime highs as low as 25 degrees below normal. Temperatures are predicted to continue to be frigid through Saturday, and then climb towards normal by the middle of next week.
Above average snowfall is expected across much of the basin in the coming week with the heaviest amounts falling on the eastern shores of the Great Lakes. Lakes Michigan-Huron is 22 inches above their levels of a year ago. Lakes Michigan-Huron are predicted to fall 1 inch over the next 30 days. Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow into the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair’s outflow into the Detroit River are projected to be above average in January.

Source:
US Army Corps of Engineers
http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/GreatLakesInformation/GreatLakesWaterLevels/WaterLevelForecast/WeeklyGreatLakesWaterLevels.aspx
Retrieved January 9, 2015

Great Lakes Water Level Set to Hit 15 Year High

This spring, cottagers along the Great Lakes who have been anxious about disappearing shorelines are in for the highest water levels in 15-years, thanks to two unusually wet years.

Last month, Lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, and Erie were above their average monthly levels for the first time since the late 1990s, when the levels began decreasing. Experts believe that the dredging of the links between lakes to accommodate shipping and increased evaporation from climate change could have caused the low levels.

“On Superior, Michigan, and Huron, we haven’t seen two-year water level increases of this magnitude” in recorded history, said Keith Kompoltowicz, a hydrologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers district office in Detroit, in an interview with the CBC.

Kompoltowicz says the high water levels are partly due to heavy rain and the abundance of snow that accumulated over the lake and their watersheds. Last winter’s ice coverage, which covered over 90 percent of the lakes total surface area, could have also slowed down winter evaporation. (Thank you, Polar Vortex!)

This six-month forecast is a sharp contrast to just two years ago, when Lakes Michigan and Huron levels were the lowest since the government first began keeping records in 1818. Lake Ontario was the only Great Lake that maintained average water levels because of hydropower dams that control the flow.

Although scientists believe these levels will be maintained for the next six months, they cannot make predictions beyond that.

“When we have a warming climate system, the bottom line is that it yields greater year-to-year variability,” said Jim Noel of the NOAA Ohio River weather forecasting centre to the CBC.

The Great Lakes contain 20 percent of the world’s freshwater supply and provides drinking water to approximately 40 million households. The Great Lakes are also home to more than 3,500 species of plants and animals.

And the impact of the low water levels reaches beyond the ecosystem. A study published last June by the Mowat Centre, a public policy think tank based in Ontario, and conducted by the Council of the Great Lakes Region, found that the long-term effects of low water levels could mean a loss of $18.82 billion USD by 2050.

According to the report, commercial shipping, waterfront property values, recreational boating, the fishing economy and hydroelectric generation are the most vulnerable to low water levels.

And while the Polar Vortex may have helped water levels, it’s certainly not a long-term solution to rely on.

“This unusual set of winter conditions will only break temporarily the long-term climate-warming trend affecting Great Lakes levels and water qualities,” said Jim Bruce, a former senior official with Environment Canada, in a statement for the International Joint Commission.

Source:

Written By Samantha Edwards

http://cottagelife.com/97695/blogs/great-lakes-water-levels-set-to-hit-15-year-high

Retrieved: January 9, 2015

Our Story: The Phillips Team

Karen Phillips, MA
Executive Assistant
705-795-6303
karen@thephillilpsteam.ca

Gary Phillips, Realtor
705-795-7239
gary@thephillipsteam.ca

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

"We understand and respect the fact that cottages are where we build many of our dearest and heartfelt memories!"

As young professionals, Gary & Karen understood the benefits to owning a cottage and enjoying a cottage lifestyle. They chose to purchase a cottage property for themselves, their children and their extended family and friends. Gary & Karen purchased a century lodge and spent a number of years restoring a building that was arguably a “tear down,” but also held generations of memories for local cottagers and residents in their neighbourhood. After four years of renovations, the Woods Bay Lodge renovation was completed and continues to stand as it has for over 100 years as a historical icon in the community. Today, Gary and Karen continue to share this special place and the cottage lifestyle with their grown children and grand-children. 

Karen & Gary care deeply about their community and are committed to community development and building initiatives. One of The Phillips’ Team’s favourite contributions to their community is the Woods Bay Lodge Summer Concert Series (https://www.facebook.com/woodsbaylodge?ref=hl). Community members are invited to participate in a night of gourmet food and live music with their neighbours, friends and new friends a the Phillips’ beloved Woods Bay Lodge. To date, the Woods Bay Summer Concert Series has enjoyed the talent of Jason McCoy of Road Hammers Fame (http://www.theroadhammers.com), Tom Wilson of Blackie & the Rodeo Kings (http://blackieandtherodeokings.com/south/), Scarlett Jane http://www.scarlettjane.com), Dre Flack and the Kitchen Party Band (http://freemandreandthekitchenparty.com),and Coco Love Alcorn (http://cocolovealcorn.com). And, Karen & Gary are not only passionate about real estate, they genuinely love people, great food, wine and music! 

Karen & Gary genuinely understand that cottages are where families and friends build many of their dearest and most heartfelt memories!

Meet The Phillips Team

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

The Phillips Team are a full service cottage country real estate team that provides each client with real estate services that are tailored to meet their needs. With unique and diverse skills, Gary & Karen combine their individual expertise and experience to create a team approach that recognizes the importance of building and maintaining client relationships, possessing market knowledge,understanding technology,and accessing resources to effectively meet their client’s needs. 

Meet our Team: Karen Phillips, Executive Assistant

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Marketing/Social Media/Researcher/Writer & Blogger
Karen is highly skilled in administration, community development and human services. She has many years experience working in brain injury rehabilitation, mental health counselling, and post-secondary education in progressively responsible positions. Continuously engaged in the pursuit of academic credentials and professional goals, Karen holds a Double Honours Undergraduate Degree in History and English, a Post Graduate Diploma in Communicative Disorders, an Advanced Degree in Health Services Administration, and a Masters Degree, Integrated Studies with a double specialization in Educational Studies and Adult Education. For years, Karen has been actively involved in real estate transactions in her private life, and coming from a family of Realtors, has a strong understanding of the real estate business. This interest contributed significantly to her decision to join Gary as his Executive Assistant in January 2014.  Her education and professional experience ideally positions her to contribute to the educational perspective of The Phillips Team as well as the ongoing administrative work required to provide exceptional service to clients buying and selling cottage country real estate. Karen provides the behind the scenes administrative support in social media, marketing, advertising and organizational planning, creating a strong platform from which Gary is able to assist his clients with attentive, informative and proactive real estate services.   Evident in her professional path, Karen truly cares about people and believes strongly in providing service with integrity and authenticity. She maintains strong relationships with her friends and family, and is very proud of their three grown children, two of whom have completed their education to go on to successful careers in real estate and business marketing, and their youngest who is completing her education in the field of nursing medicine. Karen also views her involvement in her local cottage country community as a both a pleasure and a privilege.

Meet our Team: Gary Phillips, Realtor

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Adventurous/Social/Detail Oriented/Strong Negotiator
Bringing extensive knowledge of the unique cottage country real estate market to his position as an accomplished and respected Realtor, Gary represents discriminating buyers and sellers throughout the Parry Sound-Muskoka district. Gary offers his clients an exceptional level of service. He skillfully utilizes his many years of experience, working with Fortune 500 companies as an accomplished entrepreneur in Ontario’s manufacturing industry, with his years of experience purchasing, owning, developing and selling cottage country property. Known by clients and colleagues for his strong work ethic, tenacity, perseverance, and honesty, Gary enjoys an excellent reputation for meeting his client’s needs and expectations. Gary listens and educates his clients, provides his expertise, and respects his client’s time. Always the consummate professional, Gary recognized the importance of a team approach to serving his clients and formed “The Phillips Team” in 2013 after 5 years of full-time real estate practice. With the support of an Executive Assistant, Gary is able to respond to his client’s phone and email messages in a timely way, resulting in the continued development of his business portfolio of referrals from past and current clients. Combining his strong business background and entrepreneurial skills, years of experience as a full-time Realtor, and dedication to ongoing education in his field, Gary provides an exceptional choice for anyone ready to purchase or sell property in the Parry-Sound Muskoka real estate district. His charisma, salesmanship, and strong but fair negotiation skills, continue to contribute to Gary’s ongoing success in the real estate industry. He is passionate about his work and is genuinely invested and engaged with the clients he serves. Today, in addition to his commitment to his real estate practice, Gary is very involved with his family and their three grown children, two of whom have completed their education to go on to successful careers in real estate and business marketing, and their youngest who is completing her education in the field of nursing medicine. Gary is also a community minded individual who is committed to the efforts of community building in his local cottage country neighbourhood.

The Phillips Team

2015 Cottage Resolutions

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Every year at the cottage is different and each New Years, we reflect back what was particularly fun, what was exciting, what we accomplished and what we didn’t at the cottage. But, we also consider what we would do differently. For us, the cottage is a very special place, that is multifaceted. It is a place where we relax, work, putter, disengage, engage, play, socialize and have lots of awesome adventures. It is also a place where we have learned a lot about ourselves, our family and our friends. Here are some of our past and present cottage resolutions:

1. Plan Guest Free Weekends: The cottage is where we work and play. So, it is an interesting balance for us to manage our social schedule with our work schedule. For us, we are often working when our friends are wanting to play and have fun. So, we tend to schedule our time (as best we can) so that we can balance both. One way we do this is to schedule weekends with friends and family and to also make sure that we have “unscheduled” weekends where we are guest free. This leaves it open for us to enjoy some quiet time, or more likely to engage with our friends in cottage country.

2. Plan Your Projects: As with all cottages, there are always projects that you want to complete whether it be to paint a bunkie, install a new bathroom, create an outdoor shower,
fix a deck or clean up the beach. We find that it is best for us to create a wish list and then
price out the projects and/or schedule the time. We prioritize the projects, research the cost of each project in terms of dollars and/or time, create a budget, and finally create a timeline for the projects we want to complete. We also talk about whether or not we will complete a project on our own, hire some help or combine the two approaches.

3. Find a New Hobby: There are some activities that we engage in faithfully at the cottage, but each year we like to think about some new ways to spend our time. We are very active and love to be outdoors, so here are some activities and hobbies that we enjoy:
i. Stand-up paddle boarding
ii. Organic box gardening – yup, we grow our own veggies for the summer
iii. Kayaking
iv. Evening boat cruises with a cup of our favourite java
v. Hiking on our local trails – we have a quest to learn the different mushroom types
vi. Snorkelling around our local islands
vii. Finding new spots to enjoy an afternoon picnic

4. Engaging With Our Cottage Community: Gary & I are quite active in our cottage community and as a result we have met some amazing new people. We thoroughly enjoy spending time with our like-minded neighbours and engaging in activities that are unique to our neighbourhood. Perhaps this year you could consider becoming more active in your community by joining your local cottage association, creating a Facebook page that is unique to your neighbourhood, starting up a travelling dinner party, or maybe even hosting a cottage concert to enjoy local musical talent (Woods Bay Lodge  https://www.facebook.com/woodsbaylodge).

5. Find Ways to Un-complicate Cottaging: Although the cottage is our favourite place on earth, it can also be a place that requires a lot of work. But, over the past few years we have considered some ways to un-complicate things so that there is more time to just enjoy the cottage.
i.   Relax your standards and “just let things be.” Yup, a little CBT is helpful here :)
ii.  Hire a local student company such as Nikki’s Cottage Care (https://www.facebook.com/nikkiscottagecaregeobay) to help you out a bit with cottage cleaning, grass cutting, beach clean up and maintenance, and weed whacking
iii. Pre-plan your meals! We love to bar-b-que a great steak and combine it with fresh veggies
from our organic garden
iv. Ask guests to bring their own linens or sleeping bags so you aren’t left with tonnes of
laundry
v. Pot luck dinners with your neighbours is a great way to enjoy time together without it
becoming a burden

We are super excited about 2015 and are totally looking forward to hearing all about your plans for the cottage, your wonderful adventures, and all of the ways in which you choose to experience cottage country. It inspires us!

The Phillips Team

Beautiful Inland Lake - Harris Lake

Harris Lake is lovely, quiet lake located along Hwy #124, just south of McKellar, ON. The lake is located approximately 12 minutes from the town of Parry Sound, making an ideal place to cottage or relocate for year round living. Harris Lake is part of the Sequin River watershed and is ideal for outdoor activities year round.  Harris Lake is situated within the Fisheries Management Zone 15 and is home to a number of fish species including Northern Pike, Black Crappie, Large and Small Mouth Bass, Catfish and Yellow Perch. In the summer, the lake is idea for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and other water sports. In the winter, snowshoeing, ice fishing and snowmobiling are all enjoyed. Harris Lake is located close to the Parry Sound district snowmobile trails, making it ideal for enjoying four seasons!

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Buying Water Access Property on Georgian Bay

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Purchasing a water access cottage on Georgian Bay is appealing to many cottage buyers as it can be an affordable option that is unique, novel and adventurous. A number of cottages are located on mainland and islands on Georgian Bay and are accessible only by  water.  These wonderful properties possess different qualities and cottage lifestyle experiences and are accessed by boat from local marinas.  Boat rides can be as little as a few minutes and as much as 45 minutes (approximately) from the marina to the cottage.  Many people find this portion of the travel time to the cottage the most enjoyable.  Although there is definitely more work required to transport people, items and supplies to and from water access cottages, the beautiful boat ride and the perception of freedom that you feel when you reach the dock is incredible! Generations of people have enjoyed water access cottage properties and continue to do so as they offer a cottage lifestyle that is truly unique.

Georgian Bay is known for its extraordinary beauty.  It is home to the world renowned 30,000 islands, forming the world’s largest fresh water Archipelago.  The historic Thirty Thousand Islands are primarily located along the eastern shore of the bay are are primarily located in the township of Carling and the North and South Archipelago.  The rugged landscape of this incredible body of water is characterized by windswept Eastern White Pines and endless pink granite rock foundations.  Gorgeous beaches and  granite rock promontories can be found along the shoreline and the crystal blue water is spectacular.  For generations, Georgian Bay has been sought after by cottagers as it offers a variety of cottage options from private islands, to water access properties, and spectacular drive-to properties.  Visit our Blog for more information on these options.

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Buying a Private Island on Georgian Bay

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Owning a private island on Georgian Bay is a dream for many and can be a reality for those who have the affluence and the adventurous spirit to pursue such a dream.  Private islands are as unique as those who choose this type of cottage lifestyle.  Peace and serenity can be enjoyed in ways which are exclusive to owning your own piece of paradise on Georgian Bay.  Private island properties provide a setting where ultimate privacy can be achieved, and the perfect get-away can be enjoyed.  The tranquility of owning your own private island sanctuary is the ultimate experience for those who want to connect with nature, and cherish the adventure, privacy and privileges of island living.  Ideal for those with float planes!

Inner Islands: Owning a private island in the inner islands of Georgian Bay is the perfect combination for many buyers.  Private island ownership is very appealing for many individuals    who cherish their privacy and are seeking a retreat that is tranquil and serene.  However, for many individuals, they have other desires for cottage ownership which include protection from the intense Georgian Bay winds, calmer waters, shorter boat rides from local marinas, and in some cases warmer water.   Buying an island in the inner islands can be the right choice for some buyers.

Outer Islands: The outer islands of Georgian Bay are can be the perfect fit for those who want ultimate privacy and complete tranquility.  The outer islands enjoy the gorgeous vistas that Georgian Bay is so famous for, the incredible views of the “big water” and the spectacular experience of the Georgian Bay weather cycles.  These island properties typically require a longer boat ride from local marinas and are sometimes accessed by private float planes.  These picturesque properties are exclusive and prestigious and are often a place of great joy and adventure for families for generations.

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Buying a Drive-to Property on Georgian Bay

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Drive to Georgian Bay properties are typically sought after as they provide a wonderful combination of cottage lifestyle experiences in the Parry Sound-Muskoka district; access to the wild nature of Georgian Bay, while enjoying the comfort and convenience of driving to your cottage. Many cottage buyers desire the peace of mind a drive-to property can provide and it certainly is a convenient option when considering transporting food, supplies and larger cottage items such as building materials. However, these properties tend to be very sought after by cottage real estate buyers and are generally significantly more expensive than other properties in the district.

As with all Georgian Bay properties, each property is unique in terms of its topography, waterfront shoreline and size, and can generally be used during the four seasons. Many of these properties also have the potential of becoming a future permanent resident for those who are considering retiring in the Parry Sound-Muskoka region.  This gives buyers the option of utilizing their cottage property over the years and planning for their retirement as needed. If this is the case, it is important to consider local amenities such as health care.

Buying on Georgian Bay

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Georgian Bay was named “La Mer Douce,” (The Calm Sea) by Samuel de Champlain in 1615-1616 and was officially named Georgian Bay after King George V by Lieutenant Henry Wolsey Bayfield of the Royal Navy in 1822. The history of the Bay is significant and enchanting, and the people who choose to enjoy a cottage lifestyle here share a common desire to continue to be a part of this rich heritage.

For some, the untamed nature of Georgian Bay creates some concerns, for others, it is exactly what they are looking for!  Either way, it is important to work with a Realtor who is able to unpack the various nuances of cottage real estate on Georgian Bay, understanding current market conditions, regional differences, and the sub-markets that exist on the Bay.  Possessing a knowledge about the various neighbourhoods and the history of each is important and contributes significantly to fully understanding the market when buying or selling cottage real estate.  Some examples of this include:
Knowing what is unique and relevant about specific communities;
What are the property attributes best suited for future resale and market appreciation;
Is the shore road allowance included with the property;
Is there a right of way on the property;
Is the road a municipally maintained road or is it maintained by an association of property owners;
How far away are local marinas and amenities;
What does it mean when a property is zoned Environmentally Protected or Natural Space

Furthermore, one must consider the construction of the building(s) on the property, and be knowledgeable of local building codes and by-laws. A strong knowledge of these aspects of cottage country real estate is required as many buildings on the Bay were constructed prior to current by-law requirements and yet, hold significant historical and sentimental value to the community.  Understanding the many nuances of this unique market is imperative when working as a Realtor on Georgian Bay!

Buying on the Inland Lakes

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

The town of Parry Sound is located on the shores of Georgian Bay in the heart of the 30,000 Islands and is surrounded by many communities and hundreds of inland lakes. When considering the inland lakes it is important that you find the right fit for your wants and needs in  a cottage lifestyle.  The inland lakes can offer a variety of features that may or may not suit your needs.  For example, it is important to consider what type of boating you would like to enjoy; paddling, power boat or sailing.  When thinking about your cottage lifestyle, you should also consider how important swimming is to you and those you will be sharing your cottage experience with.  For some, swimming is a huge part of the cottage experience, for others this is not as important a consideration. These factors impact significantly on the type of waterfront you will want to invest in when buying a cottage property. And, are you wanting to enjoy your property during the four seasons, taking advantage of all that the winter months have to offer in the area.

Cottage owners on the inland lakes enjoy community in various ways and like all communities, each is unique in its own way.  This is an important aspect of one’s cottage experience and should be discussed thoroughly with a knowledgeable Realtor to ensure that you are pursuing the type of cottage lifestyle that is most suited to your wants and needs.   Local cottage associations provide invaluable information about different cottage communities; newsletters, AGM minutes, association websites. Information about the environment, local business and community initiatives, water quality, history of the area, safety issues, and development controls are a few of the considerations to be cognizant about when seeking to buy on the inland lakes.

Six Common Pricing Mistakes

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Selling your cottage country real estate can evoke a number of emotions and create family and estate planning challenges, and these along with managing the many nuances involved in selling a cottage country property can lead to a number of common pricing mistakes.

Here are some pricing mistakes that sellers should avoid.

1. Overpricing your property from the start: No doubt, you feel that your property is the best property in the area and should command a price relative to the value that you see. I get it, and I feel the same way about my property. However, this is wrong thinking and won’t do you any favours when it comes to listing (and selling!) your property. You must appeal to the value that cottage country buyers see. Overpricing your property at the onset could leave out strong potential buyers, especially when other sales in your community and other factors just don’t justify your listing price. And, you also run the risk of your property needing multiple price reductions, keeping your property on the market much longer.

2. Leaving out online buyers in online searches: When searching online, one of the first things that buyers do is set the search parameters to narrow down their search options. It is therefore important to think about these ranges. For example, if a buyer’s range is $350,000 to $400,000, they won’t see you listing if it is listed at $405,000. It might make sense to list it at $400,000 so that you capture potential buyers in the ranges above and below. At the end of the day, this is certainly a decision you and your Realtor can discuss, but it is certainly worth considering, especially if you teetering between prices ranges anyway.

3. Not considering recently sold properties: Since the Great Recession beginning in October 2008, and the resulting credit crunch in the lending markets, the real estate market has certainly become more objective (land & building values, rather than the subjectivity of paying more money for a specific view for example), arguably making it a fairer for buyers. To arrive at a listing price that will generate buyer interest, you can’t base it solely on properties listed in your area for sale. You must also consider the recent sales in your community and the final sale prices. An experienced and knowledgeable agent can provide you with the educational information you need to make an informed decision about your listing price. And remember, today buyers can access more information than ever before and are typically very well educated and informed about the real estate market they are searching in.

4. Getting too creative with your asking price: Make it easy for buyers to find your property when searching online by choosing round numbers. Listing your property at $311,500, for example, may make sense to you (i.e. working out your dispersants and real estate costs), but has the potential to give potential pause about your intentions and divert attention away from your property to you, as the seller. It makes more sense to engage your creative energies in contributing to the property description.

5. Not being open to negotiation: Although an experienced Realtor who knows your community and market place well will speak to listing your property as close to market value as possible to generate interest, the quickest way to kill a sale of your property is to dig in your heels on asking price before the “for sale” sign is even posted. Negotiation is a two way street, and if you refuse to budge on pricing or other conditions, you might be in for difficult and long, drawn out selling process. You need to ask yourself if it is more important to get your full asking price, or to make a few concessions to facilitate a final sale. Think about the bigger picture and what you are wanting to move on to, and how some flexibility on your part may contribute to this coming to fruition.

6. Ignoring your Realtor’s Insights: The best way to determine the right price for your property starlings with choosing a great

Realtor and then taking his/her advice and recommendations into full consideration. Your Realtor will look at your situation from all perspectives – land and building value, location, local market conditions, recent sales and more – to assist you in making and educated and informed decision about your listing price. As well, an experience Realtor will also speak to you about a marketing strategy and a plan for re-visiting your asking price at agreed upon intervals to ensure that you are working together to get your cottage country property sold!

Georgian Bay Water Levels Rising

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

What in the world is going on? For the past number of years, we have been very concerned with the dropping water levels on Georgian Bay. In fact, two years ago at this time, Gary was up hunting and took some pictures that were shocking! The water was literally disappearing and our dock was perched upon rock where once there had been water! We were extremely concerned and engaged in understanding what was happening on the Bay. Last year, however the water started to rise, and as we can remember there was vast flooding in many areas of northern cottage country. This spring the water continued to rise and throughout the summer we were thrilled to see it lapping over our point and rising up to meet our fire pit. Although we watched as our beach disappeared, we were amazed at the quantity of water that was returning to the Bay. As “Stop the Drop” states in their October 2014 email, “It has been a huge relief for our members to see water levels return to where ‘they are supposed to be.”

It is reported that in October, the Bay was 10 cms above it’s long-term average for October and was continuing to rise this fall, when typically we see a decline in water levels by October/November. The water levels haven’t been this high in approximately 15 years, and it is anticipated that the Bay will continue to enjoy health water levels into 2015.

It is an interesting study, the rise and falls of the Georgian Bay water levels. The scientists continue to deliberate about the cause(s) of the significant fluctuation in water levels, while others continue to debate ways in which to intervene and/or adapt. There is “an emerging focus on building resilience by modifying the way shoreline communities interface with the lake” (Stop the Drop, October 2014). Stop the Drop reports that they are exploring the process in one Georgian Bay community of utilizing advanced visualization tools. Perhaps the logic is that if we can visualize what the changing shoreline will look like, we can begin to plan, modify and adapt the ways in which we interact with it. I’m not really sure what this would mean and how we would adapt and/or change, but I’m certainly interested in thinking about this and exploring new thoughts and ideas.

For myself, Gary and our family, our love of the Bay will continue to foster our willingness to adapt and to be resilient to our changing shoreline. Our relationship with the Bay is likened to our relationships with others, so to speak. We all change over time and so our relationships must adapt. The constant for us is that the Bay is always mysterious, magnificent and rugged, and she has demonstrated yet again, that her close relationship to Mother Nature keeps her as formidable as ever!

Check out these websites for information about the water levels on Georgian Bay and the Great Lakes:http://www.stopthedrop.ca
http://graham.umich.edu/water

Water Access Halloween

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

When the only way to trick or treat is by boat, that is exactly what happens! Most of us have experience with Halloween festivities that take place when little ghosts, goblins, princesses an action figures turn up at our door anticipating a generous bounty of candy. Some of us have even experienced this in rural communities where kids are carefully transported from farm to farm, or to and from larger country properties. Gary and I have had the pleasure of experiencing both scenarios. However, last night was the first time we experienced a boat load of super heroes, disney figures, little dragons and witches land at our dock to trick or treat! Yes, our dock! Eleven kids were transported to our dock and enthusiastically made their way up to our cottage to collect treats. It was really awesome and even inspired Gary and I to engage in the fun of the Halloween spirit for the first time in many years!

As we have come to understand, cottage country living is multifaceted, and community finds its way to exist in ways that we would never have considered. Our “hats are off” to the parents who created a unique Halloween experience for the kids in our cottage neighbourhood. We had a blast! And, pretty sure the kids did too :)

Creating a Summer Job in Cottage Country

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Summer jobs for your cottage kids!

Raising our children in my opinion is the most rewarding, frustrating, difficult, time consuming, exhausting, wonderful and important job that any of us parents will ever have. For Gary and I, our lives revolved around our children as they were growing up and every summer (until we figured it out) led us to the summer job challenge.

The dilemma was always how to support our children in obtaining a summer job, while taking advantage of the cottage season. Everyone in our family always wanted to spend as much time as we could at the cottage during the summer, so we really had to be strategic. Our first approach was for our kids to work at the local marina. Our son led the charge, followed a year or two later by his girlfriend (now our daughter-in-law), then our eldest daughter, and finally our youngest daughter. Needless to say, Moon River Marina was very good to our kids over the years. Our older kids are now grown with their own young families and are well on their way in their respective careers. However, with two years of university under her belt, our youngest daughter decided that she was ready to move onto a new employment situation…but doing what?

Nikki started exploring her summer job options and knowing that there were limited options in our area of cottage country, she decided to create her own opportunity. She applied to Summer Job Company and became an entrepreneur, starting Nikki’s Cottage Care Nikki’s Cottage Care Facebook Page. Following much research, a rigorous application process, the development of a viable business plan and budget, Nikki was approved to start her own summer business with the support and mentorship of the Ministry of Training, Universities and Colleges (MTCU) Summer Company  Nikki’s Cottage Care provided lawn care, outdoor maintenance, and indoor cottage care to local cottagers in the Woods Bay, Iron City, Sans Souci/Copperhead area. Nikki learned so many incredible business skills launching and running her own business. It turns out that although she is in the Bachelor of Science, Nursing program she has an entrepreneurial spirit!

What is it about these young entrepreneurs that sets them apart? It certainly takes a special “something” to take an idea and manifest it into a successful summer job opportunity (or business)! These are the characteristics that I observed: determination, a positive attitude, leadership, integrity, adaptability, and passion.

I share this with you because we were totally impressed by the opportunity Nikki had through Summer Job Service and it was awesome watching her turn her idea for a summer business into a successful summer job! And, for a university student, it was great for her to spend four months at the cottage focusing on the development of new skills that will easily transfer into her future career in medicine. And, who knows…maybe you have a potential entrepreneur in your family?! It’s something to think about if you and your family are struggling with the dilemma of managing summer jobs and the summer cottage season.

A big thank you to  The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc.  for supporting Nikki’s Cottage Care!  Nikki's Cottage Care

Largest Fresh Water Archipelago in the World!

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate


What is an archipelago, you ask? The Oxford Dictionary defines an Archipelago as “an extensive group of islands,” or “A sea or stretch of water having many islands” (http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/archipelago). Together, Lake Huron and Georgian Bay make up the longest stretch of freshwater coast in the world. Georgian Bay is a 13,000 square km water basin in eastern Lake Huron and is home to over 30,000 islands.

The more than thirty thousand islands along the eastern Georgian Bay coast form the largest freshwater archipelago in the world., an archipelago designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO (http://www.gblt.org).

Georgian Bay is known for its extreme beauty and majestic scenery, but it is also a rich and diverse biosphere. The Archipelago hosts landscapes that are breathtaking and rough, and is loved for its organic terrain and waters that are beautiful and extreme. The area is also home to the largest diversity of reptile and amphibian species in Canada. It is home to the Massassauge Rattle Snake, Eastern Fox Snake, Eastern Hognose Snake, the Spotted Turtle and Ontario’s only lizard, the Five Lined Skink. The Archipelago also supports much unique flora and many rare and uncommon animals that thrive in this area.

Those who choose to cottage on Georgian Bay and on the gorgeous private islands experience the unique opportunity to co-exist with the biodiversity of the archipelago.  It is both a privilege and a responsibility, in our opinion.   The reptiles, amphibians, flora and unique animals that live in the area are of vital importance and it is important that we are stewards of this magical place.  Preserving the natural state of the Archipelago means that the incredible species that live here will remain for generations to come.

Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

What is a Biosphere Reserve?

Biosphere Reserves are important ecosystems that are internationally recognized by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) where communities are committed to conservation of biodiversity, sustainable development, and logistic support (education, research, monitoring, training). They are nominated by communities within a shared landscape to demonstrate how to achieve sustainable livelihoods, vibrant culture and robust economies based on a healthy environment. There are over 600 world biosphere reserves in 117 countries, with 16 now in Canada

Resource: http://www.gbbr.ca/about-us/unesco-biospheres/

Our Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve

Designated by UNESCO in 2004, the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve is an area of 347,000 hectares that stretches 200 km along the eastern coast from Port Severn to the French River, in the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, also known as the 30,000 Islands. The unique geography and geology of the area create more than 1,000 distinct habitat types which support a variety of rare species, including plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Visitors can explore a mosaic of open waters, sheltered bays, coastal wetlands, exposed bedrock shores, sand and cobble beaches, riparian vegetation and upland forests.

The Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve model aims to integrate core protected areas (such as provincial and national parks), surrounding buffer areas (mostly Crown Lands) and an outer transition area of communities that support sustainable development. The biosphere reserve does not affect existing jurisdictions but creates a forum for cooperation and operates through community partnerships.

Protects the environment.
Creates vibrant communities.
Builds a healthy economy.

Our Vision
Following the mandate of UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves, to be an international model of sustainability for eastern Georgian Bay, while protecting the ecological values of the region.

Our Mission
To facilitate cooperative action in support of the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development through education and public outreach, that will foster a shared responsibility for the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve for the next seven generations.

Four Pillars of Sustainable Development: Environmental sustainability, Economic sustainability, Social Sustainability, and Cultural Sustainability.

Resource: http://www.gbbr.ca/about-us/gbbr/

Fall Cottage Life Show Discounted Tickets

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

The Fall Cottage Life show is a wonderful opportunity to explore all of the different aspects of cottage living.  If you own a cottage, it gives you a chance to check out a variety of vendors and to explore alternative and innovative ways to solve your most current cottage challenge. As all of us cottage owners understand, the cottage property is always a work in progress and it is so fun to dream about new projects.  The Fall Cottage Life show is a great way to check all kinds of things out. It is a really fun way to spend a few hours.

If you are thinking about becoming a cottage owner or moving to the Parry Sound district, drop by for a chat.  We have lots of information to share with you about the amazing lifestyles available to you in cottage country! Life goes by fast, make sure that you follow your dreams :)

Gary & I will be at booth 538, Hall 5  and we would love to see you! Please drop by if you are at the show.  And, if you are coming, please take advantage of our opportunity to offer you a discounted price on tickets.   Follow the link below to order your tickets and we look forward to seeing you this weekend!

 A SPECIAL DISCOUNT FROM THE PHILLIPS TEAM

Save $3 off adult tickets.
Regular adult ticket: $15; discounted ticket: $12

https://www.microspec.com/tix123/eTic.cfm?code=FCLS2014

Promo Code: PHILLIPSTEAM

These discounts are only available online in advance on the regular adult ticket admission.

Winterizing your Cottage Property

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

Canadian winters can be harsh and relentless as we have been reminded of last year. Severely cold winters can be harsh with the freezing and thawing of the land and buildings (for those cottages that are closed down completely in the winter). Risk management can certainly help to mitigate loss and reduce the need to make an insurance claim when you return to your beloved property in the spring. Below are five reminders for closing your three season cottage for the winter.

Wildlife: They love to call your place their own when you have left the building!
Remove all food from your cottage and bunkies
Inspect your buildings for small holes that bats, mice or squirrels can wiggle into.
Close your fireplace damper and cover the chimney to prevent birds and other small creatures from moving in.

2. Water Supply:
Fully drain all of your pipes to prevent your water line from freezing during the winter and ultimately splitting. The water supply can be filled with non-toxic anti-freeze made especially for water supply pipes. Wrapping your pipes at junction points are better protected against the cold.
Check your faucets and plumbing before close up to ensure that you identify any damage that has occurred during the cottage season.

3. Boats, motors and other equipment:
Add fuel stabilizer to motors and equipment rather than draining the gasoline from fuel tanks.
Store boat motors, lawnmowers and other engines in a dry, protected space.

4. Electrical System:
If you are shutting off the electrical for the winter season, be sure to turn off all major appliances, the water heater(s) and electrical room heaters. This will create the conditions for a smoother and safer start-up when you re-open your cottage in the spring.
If you leave your electricity on to operate lights and/or a security system, you should turn off the power at the electrical panel to all other appliances, including space heaters to ensure that they do not turn on in your absence.Take a look at your hydrometer and power lines for damage. If you can visually detect any damage, stay clear and contact your Hydro company immediately.

5. General Property Maintenance:
If your cottage is in a heavy snow area, consider installing temporary supports to protect the roof from caving in. Have a trusted person drop by on a regular basis to check your property throughout the winter season and report back to you. Have them check the following:
i. Snowload on roofs – have them shovel it off, if needed
ii. Check for signs of vandalism
iii. Check for tree damage due to weather (i.e. wind, ice, snow, etc.). Remove
fallen branches from your buildings, and branches that are hanging over your builiding(s), if it is safe to do so.
iv. Check your insurance policy to determine if you need to inform your insurance broker when you are away from your property for an extended period of time.
Spending some time addressing the risk management of your property will always be time well spent. Mitigating risk certainly can provide you with some peace of mind as you think of your cottage property during the long winter months. And, you will certainly appreciate all your efforts when you return to a smooth cottage opening in the spring!

A Change of Heart about Hunting

The Phillips Team, Cottage Real Estate

I grew up in a Toronto suburb. My family enjoyed traditional and adventuring cottage lifestyles where we fished, swam, boated and engaged in a number of water sports. Growing up, nobody I knew was involved in hunting. Gary’s family hunted. When I met Gary, he did not hunt. His grandfather, father, uncles, sister and niece hunted. I thought that only “rednecks” hunted and that it was something that people had to do to survive. Fortunately, we did not have to hunt to survive and I was happy about that. I did not like or understand hunting; I just judged it and those who did it. I have since come to learn that I was misinformed and uneducated about hunting.

While our children were growing up, Gary did not hunt. He respected my feelings about it and it was not part of our lifestyle. However, as we continued to grow in our love of the outdoors and enjoyed our cottage lifestyle in expanded ways, the idea of hunting began to grow in the hearts and minds of my husband and some of our family and friends. I really began to listen when our 16 year old daughter expressed an interest in hunting. She had always been an outdoors girl, but this, I did not see coming. After all, this child cried when Fern Gully was cut down and Bambie’s mother was killed in the Disney movies. Needless to say, I also held false understandings and perceptions about hunting, and became determined to understand the culture of hunting given that my family was exploring an interest in pursuing it. Here are some of my insights and learnings:

My family are meat eaters, however we have become very selective about the meat that we consume. We buy organic meat, preferably from local farms and we have decreased the amount of red meat that we consume considerably. Hunting is a way for us to cull organic meat. When we hunt, we know where our meat comes from and how it has been handled from start to finish.
I came to understand that animals do not die of old age in the wild. Predators are vicious and relentless. Winters are harsh and unyielding. A hunter’s bullet kills an animal or bird quickly and humanely.
The circle of life is to be honoured and respected. Hunting is part of that circle and hunters, for the most part, are avid outdoors people who love and respect the environment, animals and nature.
Young women who choose to become hunters are formidable. Hunting creates in a young woman a type of self esteem and respect for themselves, animals and nature that is exceptional.
Men and women who choose to mentor the younger generation through the medium of hunting have a unique and wonderful opportunity to teach, mould, and guide young hunters into a love and respect for our environment and wildlife management.

My family is a family that hunts. My husband, son, daughter, son-in-law, and dear family friends are now hunters. They love and respect our environment and nature. They have inspired me to understand the circle of life from a different, and I would argue, more educated way. I have learned much along the way and I have found my place in it. I don’t hunt, but I sure do love researching recipes and preparing organic feasts! We know that people have different opinions about this topic, but I have come to understand that there is much to learn and appreciate about the culture of hunting.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/why-more-women-are-taking-up-hunting/article20179382/?page=all