Welcome to April in Grey County. Seems that winter just won’t quit, but hopefully we have finally turned a corner. So this month has tobe all aboutclearing out the old, whether that’s winter’s literal dust or the figurative cobwebs in our long-term plans. Let’s take a breath and make room for a fresh perspective.
The 2026 spring market is officially here or getting here… and it’s looking a lot more “Goldilocks” than the extremes of previous years. Inventory is starting to show up, but there’s still a bit of a lag. Prices are remaining steady, depending on the property. The real story is affordability. With the Bank of Canada holding steady at a 2.25% policy rate, buyer confidence is beginning to bloom alongside the daffodils, bringing a much-needed sense of predictability to our regional market. We will see what the bank decides on the 29th of this month regarding the possible new rate.
April is the month of the home health check. Beyond the standard spring cleaning, this year’s focus is on proactive maintenance:
The Exterior: It’s time to check the gutters and inspect the roof for any winter wear-and-tear before the spring rains settle in.
The Energy Audit: As we transition away from the furnace, homeowners are prioritizing sealing window drafts and servicing AC units early to beat the May rush.
The Garden Prep: We’re seeing a trend toward “pollinator-friendly” gardening, prepping beds now with native seeds to ensure a buzzing, eco-friendly summer.
Whether you’re looking to list your home, find a new sanctuary, or just want some advice on your next move. I am here for you.
Grey County – Hidden Gem
Greenwood Baths (West Grey/Durham Area) is the place to be. It is a stunning, rustic sanctuary located on Glencolton Farms.
The Vibe: A “nature-first” hydrotherapy experience.
The Ritual: They focus on contrast therapy, moving between a wood-fired sauna, a soothing hot tub, and a brisk cold-water plunge.
The Setting: It’s set against rolling fields and forest, perfect for a quiet, farm-to-spa rejuvenation session.
Home TLC: April Edition
Mechanical “Switch-Over”
Time to switch gears and get ready for Summer! Before the first humid day of May hits, make sure your cooling system is ready to work.
- Service the AC: Clear away any protective covers or debris (like dead leaves or branches) from your outdoor condenser unit. This ensures proper airflow.
- Change the Furnace Filter: Your furnace worked overtime this winter; a fresh filter now will improve your air quality and help your AC run more efficiently.
- Test the Sump Pump: Pour a few gallons of water into the sump pit to make sure the pump triggers and effectively moves the water out.
The Curated Edit – Your Home Must Have
JOYMOOP Hands Free Flat Floor Mop and Bucket with Wringer Set
If April showers are bringing more “muddy paw prints” than “May flowers” into your entryway, the JOYMOOP Mop & Bucket System is your new best friend. Unlike the old-school string mops that just push dirty water around, this system features a clever dual-chamber bucket that separates the “Wash” from the “Dry.” It comes with machine-washable microfiber pads that are safe for hardwood, tile, and laminate.
Never thought I’d have a crush on a mop, but I do.
Market Pulse – April 2026
Home Spotlight
Welcome to 234089 Concession 2, West Grey, also known as Casa Lane by local interior designers Knowlton & Co. A beautifully restored farmhouse by interior design firm Knowlton & Co. Set on nearly 50 acres of picturesque countryside, the property blends intentional design, natural beauty, and premium lifestyle living. The thoughtfully appointed interiors showcase meticulous attention to detail throughout. With its sophisticated aesthetic and generous grounds, Casa Lane also serves as an ideal venue for high-end events, corporate retreats, and intimate destination weddings—a rare opportunity to combine private residence with event space potential.
MLS |#40817742
List Price | $2,199,000
Listing Details | 4 Beds, 4 Bath
Brokerage | Coldwell Banker
Listing Agent | Holly Fischer
Because my happy place is the kitchen…
Featured April Recipe
The “Spring Awakening” Asparagus & Lemon Risotto
This dish perfectly mirrors the season: it’s creamy and comforting (for those chilly April evenings) but brightened with hit of citrus and fresh greens.
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 25 mins | Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (woody ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1.5 cups Arborio rice
- 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm on the stove)
- 2 shallots, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (like a crisp Ontario Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 organic lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh mint or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Blanch the Asparagus: Quickly boil the asparagus pieces for 2 minutes until bright green, then plunge them into ice water. This keeps them “snappy” and prevents them from turning mushy in the rice.
- Sauté the Base: In a large pan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Sauté the shallots and garlic until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan. Stir for 2 minutes until the edges of the grains look translucent. This “toasting” step is key to a nutty flavor.
- Deglaze: Pour in the white wine. Stir constantly until the liquid is fully absorbed.
- The Slow Simmer: Add the warm broth one ladle at a time. Wait for the liquid to be mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Keep stirring! This releases the starch that makes risotto creamy.
- The Finish: Once the rice is al dente (usually around 18–20 minutes), stir in the blanched asparagus, lemon juice, lemon zest, the remaining butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh mint and an extra sprinkle of zest.
- Local Tip: If you can find wild leeks (ramps) at the farmers’ market or in your own backyard this month, swap them in for the shallots for an earthy, garlicky punch that screams “Ontario Spring.”