The Call of 3928 West Canal Road
There’s something quietly magical about 3928 West Canal Road. Perfectly positioned within Severn Township, it rests at that natural entry point where the smooth landscape of Southern Ontario gives way to the ancient rock of the Canadian Shield — a shift you can feel as soon as you cross into Sparrow Lake.
This gorgeous, expansive property sits lovingly on the banks of the Severn River, where time slows and water speaks. Easily accessible from Highway 11, you can step onto your dock and take a short, scenic river ride into beautiful Sparrow Lake — leaving the city behind, yet feeling perfectly connected to adventure.
The home itself — almost 3,000 square feet — unfolds gracefully over two levels. Sunlight spills through windows everywhere, reflecting on the water. Three fireplaces invite warmth, conversation, and quiet evenings where time seems to pause. There’s room for everyone: three bedrooms, two family rooms, and an open-concept kitchen that gathers people together. Step out, and the level yard welcomes barefoot play, laughter, and evenings by the fire pit under the stars.
Down by the water’s edge, a gentle shoreline opens to a private dock and deck. Beneath the trees, a shaded nook offers a perfect spot for morning coffee or quiet reflection as the river drifts by.
From here, adventure radiates in every direction. Hiking trails wind through pine-scented forest air. Calm paddling routes call your name. In winter, snowshoeing and snowmobiling paths are right at your doorstep. And of course, there’s that irresistible truth — from the Trent–Severn Waterway, you can literally boat around the world. It makes me smile (and maybe dream a little) to picture leaving your calm cottage dock and gliding into the St. Lawrence Seaway.
For full details, see MLS #S12330700 — and imagine yourself stepping into your next Muskoka chapter.
3928 West Canal Road, Severn River, Washago
What’s New in Washago for the Cottaging Set
The Call of the Severn — 3928 West Canal Road
There’s something quietly magical about 3928 West Canal Road. Perfectly positioned within Severn Township, it rests right at that natural entry point where the smooth landscape of Southern Ontario gives way to the ancient rock of the Canadian Shield — a visible shift you feel as soon as you cross into Sparrow Lake.
This gorgeous, expansive property sits lovingly on the banks of the Severn River, where time slows and water speaks. Easily accessible from Highway 11, you’ll find yourself moments from the city yet miles away from its pace – and from your dock, it’s only a short, scenic river ride into beautiful Sparrow Lake.
The home itself – almost 3,000 square feet – unfolds gracefully over two levels. Large windows invite the light and the view inside, while three fireplaces add that unmistakable Muskoka warmth. There’s space for everyone here: three bedrooms, two family rooms, an open-concept kitchen that gathers people together, and a walkout leading straight to the shore. The level yard invites laughter, play, and barefoot evenings by the fire pit under the stars.
Down by the water’s edge, a gentle shoreline opens to a private dock and deck – and beneath the trees, a shaded nook for quiet reflection or morning coffee.
From here, adventure radiates in every direction: hiking trails that wind through forest air, calm paddling routes, and winter paths perfect for snowshoeing or snowmobiling. And of course, there’s that irresistible truth – from the Trent–Severn Waterway, you can literally boat around the world. It always makes me smile (and maybe dream a little) to imagine setting out from your calm cottage dock and one day gliding into the St. Lawrence Seaway.
For full details, see MLS #S12330700 – and imagine yourself here, where the river begins to whisper “welcome home.”
Muskoka Lakes Membership Renewal
Subject: Keep Muskoka Sparkling – Renew Your MLA Membership
Open Letter to Our Clients
When you close your eyes, can you hear it? The gentle lap of water against sun-warmed rock, the call of a loon across the bay, the scent of pine carried on a soft breeze. Muskoka has a way of weaving itself into our hearts, becoming not just a place, but a part of who we are.
That is why your membership in the Muskoka Lakes Association matters so deeply. Since 1894, the MLA has been the voice and the guardian of this shimmering paradise, protecting our water quality, standing watch over our precious shorelines, and celebrating the timeless joy of cottage life.
Your 2025 membership was gifted to you, and I truly hope you’ve felt the connection it brings, because updates keep you informed, events gather us together, and our community cares as much about Muskoka as you do.
Now, as the season turns, I warmly invite you to renew your membership for $150 and continue standing with us in protecting all that makes Muskoka magical, the sparkling lakes, the whispering pines, the rugged granite, and the laughter of families at the water’s edge.
Renewing is more than a transaction, it’s a declaration: I belong here. I care about this place. I will help protect it for generations to come.
Your renewal keeps Muskoka’s waters clean, our traditions alive, and our voices strong.
Please take a moment today to renew your membership at www.mla.on.ca.
Thank you, from my heart, for being part of this story. Together, we keep Muskoka shining.
Catharine Inniss
Realtor, J&D Muskoka
Bayley Inniss – Daughter in Law/Bike Commuter Extraordinaire
I have always considered myself a reasonably lucky person. Things have often rolled my way. I have to say that we won the daughter in law lottery with Bayley. And I didn’t have to do anything. Well, I guess produce a son worthy of her. But he did most of the work on that.
Bayley is the kind of person who makes you stand up a little straighter in her presence. Although she is kind and thoughtful, she has very high standards, which she clearly lives by, and she has high expectations of her loved ones.
Bayley identified an opportunity to stretch and grow and to give her children (our grandchildren) the wonderful experience of bike commuting. Their exposure to the world and their experiences in life, so far, are exactly what I want for them, even though I didn’t even think about half of them.
I guess if I had to identify the one trait that I admire most in Bayley it is her courage. When she has identified something worthwhile doing, she doesn’t let anything stand in her way.
Bayley feels the feels and does it anyway. That is courage and conviction. We need more Bayleys in the world. While we are searching for them, waiting for them, identifying them and growing them, we’ll just have to enjoy cherishing the one we have.
We love and appreciate you Bayley!
Boater’s Paradise on Severn near Sparrow Lake
Imagine This Severn River Lifestyle
You ease your boat into the dock as the sun sets, the golden light dancing on calm waters. Then, as you glide up to your own private cottage, everything is perfectly in place. The grass is lush, thanks to the underground sprinkler system. No stress. No work. Just you, the river, and endless adventures waiting for tomorrow.
Welcome to 3829 West Canal Road—a turn-key Severn River waterfront property for sale in Muskoka that delivers boating, adventure, and effortless ownership from day one.
Why This Severn River Cottage Stands Out
When you arrive, you won’t need to lift a finger. This property is fully furnished—and even includes an ATV. All you need to do is turn the key and start living the life you’ve imagined.
Main Level: Comfort Meets Convenience
The main level offers everything you need for stress-free living, including:
- Primary bedroom with ensuite soaker bath and propane fireplace
- Open-concept living with stunning water views
Wake up to peaceful Severn River mornings right outside your window.
Expansive Deck with Stunning Water Views
Step outside onto a spacious deck with high-end outdoor furniture included. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an evening sunset, the views are unbeatable. Want a cozy fire without the effort? Your coffee table has a built-in fire feature.
Lower Level Walkout: A Second Living Space
The bright walkout lower level is designed for hosting family and friends. You’ll find:
- Two full bedrooms with large windows
- A recreation room with a built-in Murphy bed
- A spa-inspired bathroom with oversized shower
- A pristine laundry room
This isn’t a basement—it’s an extension of your living space.
Boater’s Dream on the Trent-Severn Waterway
Love boating? This property is your ultimate basecamp. The Severn River connects directly to the Trent-Severn Waterway, offering hundreds of kilometers of boating and exploring. Cruise to charming towns, find hidden fishing spots, or plan a full day of adventure—the choice is yours.
Turn-Key Cottage for Sale – Adventure Starts Now
Picture this:
- The sound of water lapping as you sip your morning coffee
- Freedom to explore new destinations without a plan
- Evenings around the fire after a day on the water
This isn’t just a cottage—it’s a lifestyle. And because it comes fully furnished, you don’t have to wait. You can start today.
Don’t Miss This Severn River Waterfront Cottage
Turn-key waterfront properties in Muskoka—especially on the Severn River—are rare. If you’ve been searching for effortless ownership, this is your opportunity.
📞 Call 705-801-2304 to book your private viewing. Experience the difference and make this dream yours.
Biking in Muskoka
Exploring Muskoka by Gravel Bike: Two Rides from Port Carling
Bayley and I both got gravel bikes recently and decided to try out some local routes around Port Carling. I usually have to bribe Bayley with a coffee and snack stop to get her to join me. This time it worked out well and we ended up discovering a few great spots.
Windermere Loop
Our first ride was a loop up towards Windermere. Brackenrig Road is hilly and full of winding sections but it makes for a nice route and isn’t too busy. Falkenburg Road is paved and surprisingly lush with trees all around almost like riding through a rainforest. Doherty Road was the highlight for gravel with long sweeping descents and quiet surroundings. Along Doherty there’s a little cemetery in Ufford that is very well kept and was kind of neat to come across in the middle of a gravel ride. After Doherty there were a few more ups and downs on Windermere Road before we rolled into Windermere. We stopped at the pub at Windermere House for lunch and a beer. The food was regular pub fare and a bit pricey but sitting out on the patio with our bikes right beside us was great. We were the first ones there just after noon but by the time we left the patio was almost full. After lunch it was an easy ride back down Brackenrig into Port Carling. The only real gravel stretch on that ride was Doherty so if you’re looking for a mostly gravel route this one has a lot of pavement but it was still a really nice ride.
Mortimers Point Ride
Our second ride was out towards Mortimers Point. Ride with GPS thought there would be quite a bit more gravel than there actually was but it still turned out to be a good route. Foreman Road was in pretty rough shape but traffic was light so it wasn’t a big deal. We turned onto Cooper Point Road which was proper gravel and really scenic with rolling hills but nothing too steep. Near the end of Cooper Point Road there’s a short singletrack trail maybe about 500 meters that links over to Pleasant View Point Road. It was fun to ride on the gravel bikes though we did have to hop off once to climb over a log. After that it was back on pavement but on quiet roads all the way to Mortimers Point Marina where we stopped for smoothies and iced coffee. The ride back down Mortimers Point Road and Eveleigh Road was smooth sailing though both of those roads are paved. In town the traffic always feels a bit hairy but it’s also fun flying through on the bikes. Overall the only real gravel section on this ride was Cooper Point but it was worth it for the scenery and the snack stop.
Both rides were great ways to see Muskoka from a different perspective and even if they weren’t pure gravel the mix of quiet roads and beautiful views made them worthwhile.
Chris Inniss (he/him)
Letter Template: Stop the MZO at the Muskoka Regional Centre
Or, copy and paste from below.
Letter Template Copy and Paste
Subject Line (Suggested for Email):
Opposition to MZO for Muskoka Regional Centre Development
Address to:
Or copy and paste the following block into the “to” field:
heidi.lorenz@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, sandy.cairns@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, peter.johnston@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, erin.strength@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, penny.varney@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, jo.morphy@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, michelle.robinson@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, randy.jorgensen@gravenhurstcouncil.ca, christina.hunter@gravenhurstcouncil.ca
CC: see below
Body:
Dear Mayor Lorenz and Members of Gravenhurst Council,
[Insert 2–3 sentences about your personal connection to Muskoka. Are you a resident? Cottager? Life-long visitor? Mention the lake or area if you can – anything that makes this real to you.]
I’m writing to express serious concern about the proposed development of the former Muskoka Regional Centre by Cliff Bay Muskoka Corp., and especially their request for a Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO).
An MZO would allow the developer to bypass all local planning processes—no public hearings, no zoning review, and no opportunity for appeal. That’s not how responsible development should happen in Muskoka.
[Optional: Insert 1–2 sentences about what concerns you most. This could be environmental, community, traffic, transparency concerns, etc.]
I respectfully urge Council to:
- Pass a resolution opposing the use of a Minister’s Zoning Order for this site
- Insist that any development follow the regular municipal planning process, with environmental review and public consultation
- Refuse to support or endorse any resolution that facilitates the MZO
Thank you for your time and for standing up for Muskoka.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your connection to Muskoka – e.g., Resident on Lake X]
[Optional: Address or contact info if you’re comfortable]
Optional: CC Key Provincial Contacts
Even though the MZO decision lies with the Province, your email will have more impact if you also copy the key decision-makers:
MPP Graydon Smith (Parry Sound–Muskoka, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry) – graydon.smith@pc.ola.org Note: While MPP Graydon Smith does not control the MZO decision, his ministry oversees Crown lakebed leases. He has described himself as a “strong voice for Muskoka” during the 2022 campaign and in flood season messaging. Muskoka needs that voice now more than ever.
Premier Doug Ford – premier@ontario.ca
Minister Rob Flack (Municipal Affairs and Housing) – rob.flack@pc.ola.org Note: Minister Flack is the one who ultimately decides whether to approve or deny the MZO request. He has the authority to sign the zoning order that would override local planning rules and fast-track this development.
Minister Kinga Surma (Infrastructure) – kinga.surma@pc.ola.org
Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) – minister.mecp@ontario.ca
What’s in a Name? Renaming Crane Island to Stowe Island
The Ministry of Natural Resources is currently working on a decision regarding an application to rename Crane Island (Lake Joseph) to Stowe Island. But why Stowe? Let’s talk about the incredible history behind the name.
The Story Behind Stowe Island: Honouring Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe
Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe was a trailblazer, a woman who defied the conventions of her time to make a lasting impact on Canadian society. Born in 1831, Emily Stowe became a pivotal figure in Canada’s history as the first licensed female physician in the country. Yet her legacy extends beyond her medical achievements; she was also a driving force behind women’s education and suffrage.
Raised in a Quaker family that valued education for both genders, Emily was encouraged to pursue knowledge from a young age. Though denied entry to the University of Toronto’s medical school due to her gender, she persisted by studying in the United States, graduating from the New York Medical College for Women in 1867.
The treatment she endured set the stage for change, leading to her involvement in founding the Ontario Medical College for Women in 1883. This institution was crucial in providing women with access to medical training in Canada. Emily’s daughter, Augusta Stowe-Gullen, followed in her footsteps, becoming the first woman to graduate with a medical degree from a Canadian university.
The Stowes’ connection to Lake Joseph began in 1883, with the purchase of an island for the family’s retreat, a sanctuary for Emily and her husband, John, to escape the rigours of their work. Named “Stowe Island,” it was designed as a peaceful haven, complete with flower beds, vegetable gardens, and cozy summer cottages. Here, Emily found respite amid her relentless campaigning for women’s rights and equal opportunities.
This island, now known as Crane Island, holds a remarkable legacy. Renaming it Stowe Island would not only honour Emily’s contributions to medical and social reforms in Canada but also her enduring impact on future generations, symbolizing the vision and commitment that inspired her life’s work. She is someone worth remembering.
Old Muskoka
Much of this information is available as one resource in the fabulous book Old Muskoka: Century Cottages and Summer Estates by Liz Lundell. If you are interested in historic estates in Muskoka this is a must read. I am often look to as a resource for information about Muskoka (so flattering!!), and this is one of the books that I referred to often while trying to learn as much as I possibly could about Muskoka and the Big Three (Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph).
I hope you enjoyed learning about legacy behind Stowe Island. I will let you know if the change in name is approved by the ministry. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca. And don’t forget to check out our Instagram @cottageinmuskoka for more Muskoka content.
Interested in Lower Interest Rates?
On October 23, 2024, the Bank of Canada dropped its interest rate by 0.50%. This brings the rate down to its lowest level in years, and it’s going to shake things up in the Muskoka real estate market. So, what does this mean for you, whether you’re buying or selling?
Why the Rate Cut?
Canada’s inflation has dipped to 1.6%—well below the Bank’s target. With weaker consumer confidence and rising unemployment, the Bank is hoping this rate cut will give the economy a boost. Lower rates mean cheaper borrowing, which is great news for the housing market!
If you are a Seller, this may mean that there are more Buyers qualifying for your property. Perhaps there will also be less competition. Potential Sellers who were worried about having to sell, may have some relief now.
Potential for Higher Offers
With buyers qualifying for larger loans, there’s a chance they may make higher offers on your property. This is especially true in competitive markets where multiple buyers are vying for the same home.
Should You Act Now?
It is a great time to act. For Buyers – before all the other Buyers hit the market and drive prices up again.
For sellers, listing your property could be a good plan. But, it depends on your situation. Please rely on your personal needs and the advice of a Muskoka real estate professional – we are always available to you.
Next Steps
Lenore and I are here to help you with your own unique situation. We provide personalized, professional and exclusive care. We are REALTORs with Johnston and Daniel Rushbrooke Realty Inc., and we’re here to guide you through the process.
Please contact us, and we’ll start your specific plan. Our timing is your timing, whether you want to take action today, or in five years from now.
Best regards,
Catharine Inniss
REALTOR
Johnston and Daniel Rushbrooke Realty, Brokerage
Port Carling
1 705-801-2304
cath@cottageinmuskoka.ca
The 2024 Federal Budget Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Increase
Today we have a guest post written by Mohamed Rizwan Bachani, the President & CEO of Unique Accounting Services. Thank you Mohamed for providing clarity on the new capital gains hike for our clients and followers!
Mohamed Rizwan Bachani
Unique Accounting Services
909 Simcoe St. N., Suite 200
Oshawa, ON
L1G 4W1
Tel: (905) 903-7669
Fax: 1-866-209-6945
Email: info@uniqueaccountingservices.ca
Web: www.uniqueaccountingservices.ca
The implications of the 2024 Federal Budget’s increase in the capital gains inclusion rate aresubstantial and will affect many more Canadians than originally contemplated.
The 2024 Federal Budget has proposed significant changes to the capital gains inclusion rate, a move that has potentially significant tax and financial planning implications for taxpayers, especially those involved in recurring or singular high-value transactions. We will look into the specifics of these changes, their impact on different types of taxpayers, and outline strategic tax planning opportunities that could be advantageous before the new rules come into force.
The capital gains inclusion rate is not a direct tax. However, it determines how much of a capital gain must be included in a taxpayer’s taxable income. Since 2000, the rate has been set at 50%. For example, if an individual realized a capital gain of $100,000, only $50,000 would currently form part of taxable income.
The 2024 Federal Budget has proposed to increase the inclusion rate from 50% to 66.7% for dispositions of capital property occurring on or after June 25, 2024. For businesses and trusts, this rate applies to all capital gains. However, individuals will retain the 50% inclusion rate on the first $250,000 of capital gains per year. This change means a greater portion of capital gains will be taxable, effectively raising the tax burden on investments. Consider the following examples:
Impact on Individuals:
Example 1 ($100,000 total capital gain): $50,000 would be considered taxable income (50% of $100,000). As such, there is no change compared to the existing rules
Example 2 ($300,000 total capital gain): $158,333 would be considered taxable income (50% of $250,000 = $125,000 + 66.67% of $50,000 = $33,333). Hence, an additional $8,333 is added to taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $300,000 = $150,000)
Impact on Corporations and Trusts:
Example 1 ($100,000 total capital gain): $66,667 would be considered taxable income (66.67% of $100,000). Hence, an additional $16,667 is included in taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $100,000 = $50,000)
Example 2 ($300,000 capital gain): $200,000 would be considered taxable income (66.67% of $300,000). Hence, an additional $50,000 is included in taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $300,000 = $150,000)
Who Will Be Affected?
This change will predominantly impact:
1. High-income earners and affluent investors managing substantial capital gains
2. Business owners selling their shares for a significant gain
3. Corporations with investments in real estate, marketable securities and other capital assets
4. Estate inheritances where sizable capital gains are a factor
Tax Planning Opportunities
While it may seem like the simplest solution would be to incur capital gains prior to the proposed effective date of June 25, 2024, there are several variables at play and customized professional advice is vital to maximizing your tax savings. Some potential options are listed below to consider.
1. Realizing Gains Before the Change
Realizing the sale of assets before June 25, 2024, allows individuals and corporations to benefit from the current lower inclusion rate. Some potential pitfalls to this strategy include triggering alternative minimum tax. If selling residential real estate, properties held less than one year may be subject to the residential property flipping rule resulting in 100% of the gain being included as taxable income.
If a taxpayer has realized/unrealized capital losses, crystallizing a capital gain prior to June 25, 2024, becomes worth considering. This option may lead to cashflow issues as the tax needs to be paid without receiving any proceeds.
2. Strategic Use of Lifetime Capital Gains Exemptions
Maximizing use of the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE), which is increasing to $1.25 million, can significantly reduce taxable gains from the sale of qualified small business corporation shares and similar assets. Involving a family trust in the share ownership should be considered to potentially multiply the LCGE.
3. Revisiting Estate and Succession Plans
With higher future taxation on gains, revising estate and succession plans to incorporate these changes is crucial, potentially involving earlier transfers or restructuring of asset ownership. Life insurance planning to account for increased capital gains taxation on the death of a shareholder should also be reviewed.
4. Corporate Investing
Corporations might want to consider crystallizing gains prior to June 25th to enhance the corporation’s Capital Dividend Account which will otherwise be reduced from June 25th. The CDA represents the non-taxable portion of a corporate capital gain that can be extracted from the company tax-free. The cash obtained by the individual shareholder can then be invested in capital property and take advantage of the lower capital gains inclusion rate on the first $250,000 of annual capital gains which would not otherwise be available at the corporate level.
Also, consider investing in certain corporate class mutual funds that are structured to defer capital gains and provide for cash flow in the form of tax-free return of capital prior to their disposition. Corporate owned permanent life insurance with an investment component also serves to provide estate planning combined with tax free appreciation.
Conclusion
The upcoming increase in the capital gains inclusion rate presents both challenges and opportunities. Taxpayers, particularly those with potential high-value sales of capital property should consult with their tax advisors to assess the best strategies in light of these changes.
Thanks again to Mohamed Rizwan Bachani, President & CEO of Unique Accounting Services for writing this guest post for us!