All posts by cottageinmuskoka

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.

Letter Template: Stop the MZO at the Muskoka Regional Centre

Click here for a pre-filled and addressed email template. Be sure to personalize the two parts in square brackets before sending.

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:

Info@gravenhurst.ca

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

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!

**NOW SOLD** Cottage in Muskoka for sale, Lake Muskoka (Muskoka Beach)

Cottage in Muskoka for sale, Lake Muskoka (Muskoka Beach) – Beautifully kept, super-clean, three bedroom, one bath cottage for sale on level lot in Muskoka Beach area.

Cottage in Muskoka for sale, Lake Muskoka (Muskoka Beach)
Muskoka Beach cottage for sale

The Muskoka Beach community on Lake Muskoka is known for its shallow, perfect hard-sand bottom, beautiful views and gorgeous sunsets. This four season cottage has municipal water and has been meticulously maintained. There is super-easy access by road to this very level lot; just 5 minutes to Gravenhurst.

Due in no small part to the wonderful sand bottom and the gorgeous views, cottages on Muskoka Beach sell very quickly and this one is very affordable at $749,900.

Cottage in Muskoka for sale, Lake Muskoka (Muskoka Beach)
Very level, Muskoka Beach property 

Virtual video tour: https://youtu.be/UZJqkL6c_N4

Ice was still covering most of the “Big Three” Muskoka Lakes when we came to take photos/videos, but we know we are close to a big warmup

 

Cottage in Muskoka for sale, Lake Muskoka (Muskoka Beach)
Muskoka Beach dotted island views

Royal LePage Port Carling Rebrand as Luxury Brokerage, Johnston & Daniel

Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka Realty’s Port Carling and Bala Offices Rebrand as Luxury Brokerage, Johnston & Daniel

Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka Realty is excited to announce that as of December 6th, 2017, our Port Carling and Bala offices are rebranding as the newest offices of established luxury real estate brand, Johnston & Daniel.

Meeting the growing demand for luxury real estate in Muskoka

With the significant increase in demand for luxury real estate services in the region, Johnston & Daniel is the perfect offering for Muskoka’s real estate market. As a division of Royal LePage, Johnston & Daniel offers the service of a luxury boutique brokerage backed by the scale, synergy and credentials of Canada’s largest and oldest real estate company.

Clients will have access to an intuitive and custom-tailored experience and will benefit from a robust and collaborative real estate network, a hallmark of Johnston & Daniel’s culture.

Active clients can rest assured that we have taken great measures to plan and prepare for a seamless transition while remaining focused on their needs. Outside of re-signing documents under the new brand, current clients will not be affected.

We look forward to this exciting new chapter and the opportunity to serve Muskoka’s growing luxury real estate market proudly under the prestigious Johnston & Daniel brand.

About Johnston & Daniel

Since 1950, Johnston & Daniel has been representing the distinctive properties in Southern Ontario’s most affluent neighbourhoods. Offering caring, intuitive service and building long-term relationships, Johnston & Daniel is the standard of excellence in real estate.

** Now Sold!** Muldrew Lake Waterfront, 400’ Frontage

Muldrew Lake waterfront building lot.

This Muldrew Lake waterfront building lot features 400 feet of frontage. One of the larger and much sought after lakes in Muskoka, Muldrew Lake offers cool, clear swimming, great boating and fishing and the ultimate Canadian Muskoka experience.

Muldrew Lake waterfront building lot
Muldrew Lake waterfront building lot

The sellers have invested five years in developing the lot and have therefore priced it to sell. This property has been in the same family since the turn of the last century and it is time to share the experience. The `feel` is remote, yet the reality is that this pine and granite wonderland is located not far along Peninsula Road.

Muldrew Lake waterfront building lot
Gorgeous, private views

Minutes to Muskoka Wharf & Gravenhurst Amenities

Come and test it – you will find it is a quick 10 minute drive to town. More elevated, the topography is rugged and pristine for a classic Muskoka experience. The building site has an Evaluation Report available to qualified buyers. Please ask about its Managed Forest Property designation.

**Now Sold** Muskoka Cottage Building Lot, 500’ Muldrew Lake

Muskoka cottage building lot – featuring 500 feet on Muldrew Lake!

Stunning Muskoka Cottage Building Lot
Gorgeous Muldrew Lake

Muldrew Lake is Muskoka’s eighth largest lake, and only 90 minutes to the GTA. Close to all the amenities of Gravenhurst, Muldrew Lake is pristine and only seems far away.Stunning Muskoka Cottage Building Lot

This site would provide the ultimate, private platform for the Muskoka cottage of anyone’s dreams. The views are incredible. The owners have spent five years, preparing the paperwork so that you can step in with your designer and builder and finally make your dreams come true. The lot is vast, yet close to town (10 minutes, honestly!). The land is gorgeous and the rock slipping gently into the water will tickle your fancy. Why wait? They aren`t making any more land and Muldrew is the ultimate.
An Environmental Report has been completed and a copy will be provided to the qualified buyer. This is a Managed Forest property. Just ask about it.

If a Muskoka cottage building lot is on your radar, you need to see this rare, large, private property.

**NOW SOLD** Sparrow Lake, Muskoka Cottage Lot -361′ frontage

Sparrow Lake, Muskoka Cottage Lot with 361’  of frontage on Sparrow Lake and 6 acres of privacy.

Southern waterfront view.
Southern waterfront view.

Beautiful, waterfront building lot on popular Sparrow Lake. Rare size, mixed hardwood and pine forest with lots of rock outcroppings.  Expansive, island dotted views from this very private lot.

There is a great building site featuring easy access to dock and waterfront site, which combine shallow and deep entry.

Great access to lake at future dock site.
Great access to lake at future dock site.

Severn township is very familiar with this property and can help you with your building plans.

Sold
Waterfront building lot$300,000

**Now SOLD!** Kahshe Lake Cottage For Sale

Known as Sunny Lodge, here’s a water access Kahshe Lake cottage with 415 feet of south-facing frontage on a super-private, level lot.

Kashe Lake cottage
Approaching the Kashe Lake cottage

Drift back in time to the 1940`s and you may begin to understand the Kahshe Lake cottage compound appearing in the distance. Such a private and level property is very rare. A three minute boat ride in a `new to you` boat has you arriving at a choice of docks, one a solid T out front, and the one around the point a classic.

The lot here is exceptionally level, with just a few Muskoka rock outcroppings.

Kashe Lake cottage
View beyond the point

Granite, pine and the cool, clear water of Kahshe Lake beckons. The cottage itself is a three season cottage, but with a lovely granite fireplace that was hand built over 70 years ago.

Kashe Lake cottage
Classic Muskoka cottage

Three small bedrooms, a olde Muskoka classic great room, bathroom and kitchen complete this offering. A one room Bunkie offers plenty of room for guests or the kids.

Kahshe Lake cottage
Classic Muskoka Great Room

There is also a workshop and storage area. The property and waterfront are absolutely beautiful – beyond perfect.

Three boats are included with this Kashe Lake cottage, one being a 19’ recent model Princecraft deck boat with a 115HP Evinrude engine, along with furniture and cottage/household items.

Some interesting facts about Kahshe Lake’s  name from Wikipedia:

The Indian word Kah-she-she-bog-a-mog is defined in a dictionary developed by early Jesuit missionaries and located in the archives in Ottawa. The morphemes break as follows: Ka-shesheb-agam-ag: ‘where there are-ducks-lake-place’, thus ‘Lake of Many Ducks’; compare Ojibwe jishib ‘duck’; the following are spurious (Carl Masthay, St. Louis, 2009): Kah-Lake, She-Many, Bog-Ducks,a-and, Mog or Maug-Loons, therefore Lake of Many Many Ducks and Loons (researched by Ken Little). Other people swear that it means Lake of Many Islands or “Lake of Healing Waters”. Yet others, especially those with powerful motor boats, nickname it Lake of Many Rocks and “The Minefield”. The lake’s west end is shallow while the east side is deep, yet both areas have many shallow rock hazards with no marker buoys that just seem to appear “out of nowhere” as the waterways are navigated. There is a section in the middle of the lake that is so rugged that if marked with sonar, it appears as the pulses of a heart beat on a pulse reader. These many distinct areas in the lake provide for easy fish locating for avid fishermen.

It is notable that there is a public beach off North Kahshe Lake Road. The beach is a gathering point for residents and cottagers. There are public boating docks and a boat launch. The lake has been featured on several fishing shows, it has also been featured on television, most notably in a Tim Hortons commercial. There are many organized events in and around the lake, particularly Kahshe lake regatta, Several barn dances, End of Summer labour day concert, and Rockhaven Inn craft sale.

 

Kashe Lake cottageSold
Newly Listed!$439,000

**Now Sold**! Kahshe Lake Cottage For Sale

Address Unavailable
Cityname, ST

  • 3Beds
  • 1Baths
  • 784Square Feet

Sparrow Lake, Muskoka Cottage Lot -1369’ frontage

Sparrow Lake, Muskoka Cottage Lot with 1369’  of frontage on Sparrow Lake and 42 acres of privacy.

Muskoka cottage lot
Beautiful Muskoka shoreline

Beautiful, expansive building lot on popular Sparrow Lake. Properties this size just don`t come up any more. This one has been owned by the same family for many years. Incredible, island dotted views from this very private lot.

Severn township is very familiar with this property and can help you with your building plans.

Sparrow Lake Muskoka
Waterfront building lot$475,000

Sparrow Lake, Muskoka Lot 1369’ frontage

1300 Torpitt Rd.
Severn Bridge, ST