When warm weather finally arrives in Canada, we want to soak up every second, and that often means spending more time outside. Whether you’re planning to lounge, dine, or entertain outdoors, a well-furnished patio, balcony, or backyard can transform how your space feels and functions.

Here’s how to choose outdoor furniture that reflects your style, stands up to the elements, and turns your outdoor area into a true extension of your home.

Table of contents

• Start with style

• Define the function of your space

• Choose weather-resistant materials

• Consider a gazebo

• Winter storage tips

• Budget-friendly ideas

• Final thoughts

Start with style

Today’s outdoor furniture design is every bit as refined as indoor options. Whether your aesthetic leans modern and minimal, breezy and boho, traditional and timeless, or a curated mix of styles, let your anchor pieces, like seating and tables, set the tone.

Here are a few commonly available styles for inspiration:

• Modern: Clean lines, neutral tones, and matte metal frames.

• Boho: Woven textures, rattan, and low-profile seating.

• Classic: Structured silhouettes, deep-toned wood, and wrought iron accents.

• Mixed: Stick to a unified palette or texture to tie pieces together.

Once your essentials are in place, layer in ambiance. Think string lights, lanterns, and weather-safe lamps. Add softness and colour with outdoor cushions, throws, and rugs. Don’t forget the plants! Larger potted plants, hanging baskets, or even herb garden greenery brings any setup to life.

Define the function of your space

Before you shop, ask yourself how you’ll be using the outdoor space. Are you planning to lounge with a good book, host backyard BBQs, or create a kid-friendly play zone? Your lifestyle should guide your furniture choices.

Swings, hammocks, and daybeds help create a space-saving laid-back vibe, while adjustable tables and modular seating offer flexibility. Be sure to measure your space carefully and bring these dimensions with you when making your purchase. 

Choose weather-resistant materials

Canadian winters can be harsh in many parts of the country, and your outdoor pieces need to handle it all: humidity, sun, rain, and frigid winters. Choosing the right materials is key.

Here is a material guide to refer to when shopping:

• All-weather wicker: Lightweight, classic, and resistant to fading and cracking.

• Aluminum: Rustproof, low-maintenance, and great for damp or coastal climates.

• Teak or hardwood: Beautiful and long-lasting; just be ready to seal it each year.

• Stainless steel: Strong and sleek, though heavier and pricier.

• Plastic or resin: Budget-friendly and lightweight, but prone to sun fading over time.

Whichever materials you choose, following care instructions will help extend the life of your furniture. Although it’s essential to store your furniture in the winter months, covering your furniture and storing cushions when not in use all year long extends the life of your investment with little effort. 

Consider a gazebo

A gazebo or pergola instantly elevates your backyard. These structures not only provide shade and protection from rain and mosquitos, but they also help define your outdoor living space. Some models are designed to be temporary, while others are permanent fixtures. Choose a size that fits your layout and leaves enough room for furniture.

Winter storage tips

In Canada, storing outdoor furniture properly is non-negotiable. If possible, move everything into an indoor space like a garage or basement for the winter. If that’s not feasible, cover your furniture with high-quality, weather-resistant covers to protect it from snow and freezing temperatures. Deck boxes are great for storing cushions and smaller accessories.

When spring arrives, give your furniture a good cleaning and any necessary touch-ups before setting it up again.

Budget-friendly ideas

Outdoor furniture can be a big investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Shop second-hand for high-quality pieces, or reupholster tired cushions with weather-resistant fabric in a colour or pattern that suits your style. Wood furniture can be refinished and sealed for a fresh new look.

Final thoughts 

Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a condo balcony, you can create a stylish, functional outdoor space that feels like home. Choose durable materials, define how you want to use your space, and shop with purpose – then settle in and savour the season!

The Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™ is delighted to announce the publication of its first-ever Impact Report!

In this informative and engaging publication, you will: 

• Learn about the state of Intimate Partner Violence in Canada and why our work has never been more important

• Celebrate the success of our fundraising programs and recognize the incredible generosity of our donors 

• Explore how your donations make a difference in the lives of women and children

• Look ahead to what’s in store for the next 5 years! 

Thanks to supporters like you, we’re making sure that everyone in our country has a safe place to call home – free from violence. 

To access a PDF version of this report suitable for printing, please click here. 

Climate events like storms, floods, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe. Preparing your home for extreme weather is no longer optional — it’s non-negotiable for protecting your property and keeping your family safe. 

This guide will help you secure key areas of your home, from the roof to the basement, ensuring you’re ready for whatever nature throws your way.

Protect Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against extreme weather.

• Inspect regularly: Check for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or signs of wear. Address issues promptly to avoid leaks during storms.

• Reinforce the structure: Install hurricane clips or straps to secure the roof to the walls, particularly if you live in a storm-prone area.

• Clear debris: Keep gutters and downspouts clean to prevent water buildup that can damage your roof.

Fortify your windows

Windows are vulnerable during high winds and storms. Strengthen them to reduce the risk of breakage.

• Install storm shutters: These provide a protective barrier during hurricanes and heavy storms.

• Upgrade to impact-resistant glass: These windows can withstand strong winds and flying debris.

• Use caulk or weatherstripping: Seal gaps around windows to prevent water intrusion and improve energy efficiency.

Pro Tip: Keep heavy-duty plastic sheeting on hand for temporary repairs after a storm.

Waterproof your basement

Flooding is a common threat, especially during heavy rains or rising waters.

• Install a sump pump: A sump pump with a battery backup can remove water quickly during a flood.

• Seal cracks: Use waterproof sealant to close cracks in basement walls and floors.

• Elevate utilities: Raise appliances, HVAC systems, and electrical outlets above potential flood levels.

Pro Tip: Keep a dehumidifier in the basement to manage moisture and reduce mold risk.

Safeguard your deck and outdoor spaces

Outdoor areas are particularly exposed to extreme weather. Protect them to minimize damage.

• Anchor furniture: Secure patio furniture and other outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

• Waterproof wood surfaces: Apply sealant to decks and fences to protect against water damage and rotting.

• Trim trees: Remove overhanging branches near your home to reduce the risk of damage during storms.

General preparedness tips

No matter the type of extreme weather, preparation is key.

• Create an emergency kit: Include essentials like flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit.

• Review your insurance policy: Ensure your coverage includes damages from floods, wildfires, or hurricanes as needed.

• Develop an evacuation plan: Know the safest routes and designate a meeting point for your family.

Taking proactive steps to prepare your home for extreme weather not only safeguards your investment but also provides peace of mind. By addressing vulnerabilities in your roof, windows, basement, and outdoor areas, you can face severe weather with confidence. 

Our daughter Emily has joined our team and this note is from her:

In October 2025, I’ll be heading to the other side of the globe to participate in the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter!

For 5 days, I’ll be trekking alongside like-minded colleagues from coast to coast all in support of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. While my trek towards the picturesque temples of Angkor Wat will be immensely rewarding, it will not be easy! Days will be long, hot, and humid and jet lag will be intense. I will be going without the comforts of home, sleeping in a small tent, using rustic bathroom facilities and unplugging completely from cell service and technology.

To be eligible to take part, I will pay my own trek and travel expenses and must raise at least $6,000 for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. Of the funds I raise, 80% will be directed to my local women’s shelter and 20% will fund national domestic violence prevention programs.

I was personally a victim of domestic violence in a past relationship. I know the feeling that exists out there for women. I know what it’s like to feel like you have no where to turn. I want to be not only a voice, but also a vehicle for change. I want to change and better the lives of women and children who are affected by domestic violence.

I know the adventure ahead will test me both physically and emotionally, but I’ve raised my hand because I believe that a house is only a home when the people who live there feel safe. As I face this challenge, I will draw strength knowing that every dollar I raise and every kilometer I walk will help make it easier for women and children to find the safety, hope and healing they deserve.

Will you join me by making a donation towards my fundraising goal?

Please click 'Donate Now' on the right hand side of this page to help me reach my fundraising goal!

Thank you for your support! Please note: The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation issues tax receipts in February for all donations of $20 or more made in the previous calendar year.

Donate here:

https://secure3.convio.net/rlsf/site/TR/Events/General...

After months of slower activity, the Canadian real estate market is showing signs of life. According to the latest report from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), May 2025 brought a noticeable uptick in sales activity, fueled by momentum in several major cities. 

Sales activity picks up

For the first time since November 2024, home sales are rising. Nationally, activity rose by 3.6% from April to May 2025. The biggest boosts came from the Greater Toronto Area, Calgary and Ottawa, which helped drive the national numbers upward.

“May 2025 not only saw home sales move higher at the national level for the first time in more than six months, but prices at the national level also stopped falling,” said Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s senior economist, in the report. “It’s only one month of data, and one car doesn’t make a parade, but there is a sense that maybe the expected turnaround in housing activity this year was just delayed for a few months by the initial tariff chaos and uncertainty.”

New listings on the rise

Sellers are stepping back into the market as well, with new listings climbing by 3.1% month over month in May. The national sales-to-new listings ratio stayed steady at 47%, just a hair up from April’s 46.8%. This ratio continues to hover in the zone typically considered balanced, which ranges from 45% to 65%. Historically, the long-term average is closer to 54.9%.

“May saw an increased number of new listings hitting the market early in the month, followed by a higher number of transactions in the second half of the month, so overall more sellers and buyers compared to April,” said Valérie Paquin, CREA’s Chair. “It seems like this may carry over into June as well.”

Inventory levels stay steady

There were 201,880 properties listed for sale across Canadian MLS® Systems at the end of May, up 13.2% compared to May 2024, but still 5% below the long-term average for this time of year, which sits around 211,500 listings. 

The national inventory level stood at 4.9 months, aligning closely with the long-term average of five months.

Home prices see minimal growth

After three months of roughly 1% declines, home prices hit a pause in May. The National Composite MLS® Home Price Index dipped just 0.2% from April. On a year-over-year basis, the non-seasonally adjusted index was down 3.5% compared to May 2024. The national average home price came in at $691,299 in May 2025, a decrease of 1.8% from a year earlier.

More than a quarter of Canadian renters say they considered buying a property prior to signing or renewing their current lease

As Canada’s housing landscape continues to tilt in favour of buyers – thanks to lower interest rates and a growing supply of homes in many major markets – affordability is improving in some of the country’s most expensive markets. For many renters, this signals a long-awaited opening into the market. But rather than rushing in, prospective buyers are taking a more thoughtful, strategic approach, carefully assessing their timing, finances and long-term goals.

According to a recent Royal LePage® survey, conducted by Burson,1 28% of Canadians who currently rent say that, before signing or renewing their current lease, they considered buying a property rather than renting. When asked what factors influenced their decision to rent instead, 40% of respondents said they are choosing to wait for property prices to decline; 29% are choosing to wait for interest rates to decrease further; and 28% say they are working towards buying a property, and continuing to rent allows them to save for a sufficient down payment. Respondents could select more than one answer.  

More than half of all renters surveyed (54%) say they plan to buy a property in the future; 16% say they plan to do so within the next two years, and 21% plan to buy in the next two to five years. 

“We continue to see that many tenants are motivated to get a foot on the property ladder,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “In Canada’s least affordable cities, entry-level opportunities have improved significantly, with home prices off last year’s peaks, incomes up and borrowing costs trending lower. Still, many renters – including the 40% who told us they’re holding out for further price declines – are choosing to wait. History suggests they may be disappointed. Over the past 75 years, Canadian home values have risen approximately 5% annually, running consistently ahead of inflation. The window of opportunity may be narrower than it appears, and strategic buyers are beginning to move.”

Nationally, nearly one third of renters (31%) say they do not plan to purchase a home. Of those respondents, 53% say they don’t believe their income will allow them to buy a property in the neighbourhood they want to live in, 40% say that renting remains more affordable, and 40% say they don’t want to take on the responsibilities of maintaining a property. Respondents could select more than one answer.  

Affordability struggles persist, despite dropping rental rates 

After surging in response to interest rate hikes and rising mortgage costs in 2022, rental prices in many cities across Canada have been on the decline for the last several months, offering those seeking rental accommodations more favourable market conditions.

According to the latest National Rent Report by Rentals.ca and Urbanation Inc.,2 the average national price of a one-bedroom rental unit in Canada decreased 3.6% year over year to $1,857 in May 2025. Meanwhile, the average price of a two-bedroom unit decreased 4.6% year over year to $2,225. 

“Softening activity in the rental market has been driven by a combination of factors. On one hand, the completion of purpose-built rental projects and condominiums in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver has introduced a surge of new supply to both the resale and rental markets. On the other, demand has tapered slightly as international student permits have been capped and lower interest rates have encouraged some renters to make the leap into home ownership,” said Soper. “As a result, tenants may now be in a better position to secure rentals with more space, upgraded amenities, or more desirable locations, often at more competitive prices.

“Rental markets tend to respond more slowly than resale housing to changes in the economy. Home prices have softened in many regions through the first half of the year, and we’re now seeing that relief begin to flow through to the rental sector. For the first time in years, some tenants are seeing more choice and negotiating power,” added Soper. “Yet, for those aspiring to own, this may be the moment to take a harder look at what’s possible. With prices down in many markets, rates easing, and wages growing faster than the cost of housing, the path to ownership – long a distant beacon for many – may now be coming into clearer focus.”

Despite the improvements, affordability continues to be a challenge for renters. While rents have eased for eight consecutive months, they remain well above historical norms. Nationally, rents are 5.7% higher than they were two years ago and 12.6% higher than three years ago, according to the report. Over the past five years, average asking rents in Canada have risen by an average of 4.1% annually, outpacing wage growth. 

Nationally, 37% of renters say they are spending between 31% and 50% of their net income on monthly rent costs, while another 37% are spending 30% or less, and 15% are spending more than half of their income on rent.

Challenges with affordability are also forcing renters to make hard choices. When asked if they’ve made any sacrifices in order to afford their rent, 40% of tenants said they have reduced spending on groceries and food; 30% said they have reduced contributions to savings or retirement; 21% said they are accumulating credit card debt; and 20% said they are taking on a second job or side hustle. Respondents could select more than one answer. 

“Even with several months of decreases, rents are still significantly higher than they were just a few years ago,” said Soper. “Meaningful policy action is needed to restore long-term affordability.”

Read the full press release and review the data chart for more information and regional insights:

NATIONAL PRESS RELEASE

DATA CHART

Happy Canada Day! As we celebrate our country’s 158th birthday on July 1st, we’re also proud to recognize Royal LePage’s 112th anniversary on July 2nd. That’s over a century of being proudly Canadian and supporting communities from coast to coast.

Looking for more home maintenance tips and DIY projects? Head over to the Royal LePage blog for all the inspiration you need.