(Muskoka Edition — Written by Your Local Realtor Who’s Seen It All)

Renovation costs in Canada are climbing again, according to fresh reports from StatsCan. Labour, materials, and everything in between continue to inch upward, which means every upgrade needs to work harder for your property value.

Whether you own a cottage, a rural retreat, or a year-round Muskoka home, the 2026 market will reward smart improvements and punish the unnecessary ones. And since my daily life revolves around helping buyers and sellers make financially wise decisions (with as few surprises as possible), here’s my take on what boosts your bottom line, and what drains it faster than a leaky dock line.

Remember: your goal isn’t just to renovate. It’s to Be where you want to be — financially and lifestyle-wise.

5 Upgrades That Actually Add Value in Muskoka 🛠️🌲

1.  Shoreline + Dock Improvements

Whether it’s replacing an aging dock, repairing cribbing, or adding safer lake access, shoreline upgrades sell lifestyle, the #1 driver of cottage purchases. Buyers pay for move-in-ready waterfront convenience. If they can picture their kids jumping off the dock without worrying about splinters, you win.

2.  Septic & Water System Modernizations

It’s not glamorous, but it’s gold. New septic systems, upgraded pumps, filtration, UV systems, and well improvements remove buyer anxiety and add trust to your listing. In Muskoka, where water quality is everything, these upgrades often save deals before they even start.

3.  Energy-Efficient Heating & Cooling

Heat pumps, updated furnaces, propane conversions, new insulation, and high-efficiency windows are huge wins. Why? Buyers want lower operating costs — especially since utility rates are rising. Bonus: These upgrades make year-round living more appealing, which expands your buyer pool.

4.  Kitchen & Bathroom Refreshes (Modest, Not Magazine-Level)

Think fresh counters, updated faucets, re-finished cabinets, new lighting, not a $70K gourmet overhaul. Modern, clean spaces photograph beautifully and signal “well-maintained” without breaking the bank.

5.  High-Quality Outdoor Living Spaces

Decking, privacy screens, better exterior lighting, saunas, hot tubs, fire pits, or lakeside sitting areas. Remember: Buyers don’t just buy properties in Muskoka, they buy memories. Outdoor living upgrades increase emotional attachment and perceived value immediately.

1.  Over-Customized Interiors

Shiplap+bold navy walls+gold hardware might be your dream… …but buyers want neutral, bright, adaptable spaces. Anything too unique, themed, or expensive to undo reduces your audience, and therefore your sale price.

2.  High-End Kitchens That Belong in Yorkville, Not Muskoka

Luxury kitchens are beautiful, but in cottage country, most buyers spend more time outdoors than in front of a six-burner gas range. You’ll rarely recoup the cost of high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, or imported stone.

3.  Swimming Pools and Niche Add-Ons

Pools, multi-level water features, and highly specialized additions rarely return their cost. In Muskoka, the lake is the pool. Anything that adds maintenance without improving lifestyle value tends to fall flat.

With rising renovation costs, you need to prioritize projects that:

• ✔ make your property low-maintenance

• ✔ reduce buyer risk

• ✔ enhance the Muskoka lifestyle

• ✔ photograph beautifully

• ✔ increase comfort and energy efficiency

And most importantly, upgrades that help you Be where you want to be when it’s time to sell, refinance, retire, downsize, or expand your portfolio.

If you’re unsure where to start, I’m always happy to walk your property with you, give honest advice, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Sometimes a $3,000 refresh adds more value than a $30,000 overhaul, and knowing the difference is everything.

I offer complimentary upgrade consultations for Muskoka homeowners, cottage owners, and future sellers. A 20-minute call can save you thousands, and maybe even your sanity.

Send me a message anytime. Let’s make sure your 2026 renos help you Be where you want to be.

👩🏻💼 Lisa Selvage | Muskoka Realtor® | Lifestyle Property Expert | Let’s connect!

• 🌎 www.lisamselvage.com

• ✉️ lisamae@allpointsnorth.ca

• 📞 705-644-9277