5 Important Things To Consider Before Buying A Cottage

Thinking about buying a cottage? Here are 5 important things to consider.

1. Insurance Costs

Because there are more liabilities and cottages often sit empty for longer periods of time, insurance costs are usually higher. For remote locations, discuss the option of including an insurance condition in your offer, to ensure you are able to obtain adequate insurance prior to the offer becoming firm.

2. Access

If you are looking for a year round retreat, you will want to find out whether access roads, if any, are public or private and how they are maintained (not all public roads are maintained year round). If they are private roads, ask your agent to determine who pays for maintenance and how associated fees are allocated.

3. Municipal Services

Not all rural properties can connect to municipal services, so it is imperative that you determine what services are provided to each property of interest. Is there a septic system? Is there a well? Is the water potable? Heat? Hydro?

Have questions about septic systems? Read: The Dirt on Septic Systems

Remote locations can have higher delivery fees, so it is important to factor this into your budget. If it is on septic, it is important to consider the costs associated with pumping the septic tank, and specific limitations it could pose. Older systems will also have to be updated to meet current Ontario Building Code standards – especially if you plan on renovating.

Click here to learn about when a building permit is required in Ontario.

4. Local Amenities

Consider how far the cottage is from grocery stores, hospitals, fire stations etc. The distance from such services can affect your insurance premiums, so be sure to do your due diligence before making an offer.

5. Family Friendly

Some cottages are more family friendly than others. If you are thinking long term or want to rent it out, a property with certain features will be more appealing to families. Such as; A slow decent into the water, multiple bedrooms, easy waterfront access and privacy!


Click here to read everything you need to know about buying a second property.


Looking to find the cottage of your dreams? Contact our team today – justask@vangeestgroup.com905.335.8808