In this refreshingly real and inspiring episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the dream—and the details—of cottage ownership in Ontario. Joined by cottage owner and mortgage expert Nicolee Evans from Laframboise Mortgage, this episode walks you through everything you need to know to make your lakefront dreams a financial reality.

From unexpected winter repairs to financing options for island-access properties, they cover the joys and challenges of recreational real estate ownership with honesty, clarity, and laughter. Whether you're dreaming of your first dock or planning your third, this episode is your ultimate guide to getting your docks in a row.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome to the Country Club Podcast

01:10 – Listener Q&A: Conditional offers & getting your deposit back

02:45 – Setting the scene: Why cottage life is so magical in Canada

04:30 – Nicolee’s personal journey to cottage ownership

06:00 – The surprise realities of owning a recreational property

08:15 – Why a property manager might be a must

09:20 – Financing a cottage vs a primary home: What’s different?

11:10 – What lenders look for in cottage properties

13:30 – Affordability, alternative lenders & B-20 regulations

16:40 – Unique properties, HELOCs, and mortgage strategy

20:00 – The truth about Airbnb and short-term rentals

24:30 – Documentation & pre-approval tips to save your sanity

28:00 – Credit scores, mortgage partners & being prepared

32:00 – Why communication between your real estate team matters

33:50 – Top 3 tips before making an offer on a cottage

35:30 – The emotional & lifestyle value of a family retreat

38:00 – Cottage ownership as a long-term investment

40:30 – Nicolee’s advice to her past self: Take your time & do your research

42:00 – Final thoughts: Cottage life isn’t “set it and forget it”—but it’s worth it

Notable Quotes:

"Get your docks in a row. It's not just a clever saying—it’s the smartest thing you can do before diving into cottage ownership." – Diana Cassidy-Bush

"Eyes wide open: that’s how you make smart, soulful real estate decisions." – Nicolee Evans

"The goal isn’t just to qualify. The goal is to sleep at night knowing the property enhances your life, not burdens it." – Nicolee Evans

Resources & Takeaways:

Key Takeaways:

• Be Realistic About Financing: Secondary properties often require a bigger down payment and different lending rules. Speak to a mortgage pro early.
• Plan for Property Maintenance: Seasonal wear-and-tear, distance, and utility quirks are all part of cottage ownership.
• Know Your Lending Types: From A-lenders to B-lenders to private financing and HELOC strategies, the structure can make or break your deal.
• Don’t Rely on Rental Income: Airbnb income can’t always be counted on for financing and adds layers of complexity with insurance and zoning.
• Start the Conversation Early: Your mortgage and real estate team can help you build a plan—even if you're not ready yet.

Learn more: https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/

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