Home Connection February 2026

Posted on Feb 28, 2026



PROTECT YOUR HOME THIS WINTER: 8 ESSENTIAL TIPS

Winter places unique demands on a home, especially in colder climates where systems and structures are pushed to perform under harsh conditions. From plumbing to roofing, every component must work a little harder to withstand prolonged exposure to the elements.While water is always something homeowners must manage carefully, freezing temperatures introduce an added layer of risk. When moisture turns to ice, even minor vulnerabilities can quickly escalate into costly damage if left unaddressed.To help homeowners stay ahead of winter-related issues, here are 8 practical tips to protect a home from freezing weather and the common problems that come with it. 1. KEEP THE WATER SHUT-OFF ACCESSIBLE Knowing where your main water shut-off is and keeping it easy to reach, can make all the difference in an emergency. Clear any obstacles around the valve, and ensure everyone in the household knows its location and how to use it. 2. CHECK THE SHUT-OFF VALVE Turn the valve fully clockwise to confirm it stops all water flow in the house. If it’s corroded, stiff, or doesn’t close completely, have it replaced by a licensed plumber. A functioning valve can prevent major water damage. 3. MAINTAIN YOUR THERMOSTAT Ensure your thermostat runs continuously by keeping spare batteries on hand. Small details like this can prevent bigger problems and help maintain a safe temperature throughout your home. 4. INSULATE VULNERABLE PIPES Pipes in basements, attics, or exterior walls are often overlooked. Wrapping them in foam insulation or heat tape can prevent freezing and costly repairs, especially during extended cold snaps. 5. CHECK WEATHER STRIPPING AND WINDOWS Cold drafts can make heating systems work harder and increase the risk of frozen interior walls. Inspect doors and windows for worn weather stripping or caulking and replace as needed to keep your home warm and energy-efficient. 6. KEEP GARAGE DOORS CLOSED For attached garages, limit how long the door stays open. This keeps cold air from entering your home and protects plumbing in both the garage and the walls it shares with the house. 7. PREPARE FOR VACATION If you are away for an extended period, turn off your main water supply or leave it on with one tap with a drip of water flowing. Keep the heat on in the house and have someone check it regularly, especially if the hydro goes out for insurance reasons. Consider installing a freeze alarm to monitor indoor temperatures and receive a text or email if the temperature drops too low. 8. REVIEW YOUR HOME INSURANCE Make sure your homeowner’s policy is current and provides coverage for winter-related damage. Being prepared ensures you’re protected against unexpected issues.

MARKET FLUCTUATIONS CONTINUE

The Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) of the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® saw 341 homes change hands in January, down 10.3% compared to the same month a year ago. The average sale price was $624,550 which represents an increase of over $10,000 from December and is down just 0.6% from January of 2025.“The sales-to-new listings ratio dropped substantially in January to 32.2,” said Robin Tiller, LSTAR’s 2026 Chair. “That is noticeably lower than December’s ratio of 71.6. This would indicate conditions of a buyer’s market, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), but aligns with expected numbers for a typical January market.”“Inventory continues to remain at a historically high level,” Tiller continued, “with 6.6 months of inventory in January, up from the 5.3 months recorded in January of 2025. This represents the most active listings we have seen in the last ten years.”This is another indication of a buyer's market and another good reason to reach out to your local REALTOR® for advice on buying or selling.Source: https://members.lstar.ca/members/resources/communications/market-fluctuations-continue – February 3rd, 2026 – London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®

LET THE SUNSHINE IN…

BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME AND OPEN UP YOUR SPACE

Natural light does more than illuminate a room - it can make spaces feel larger, warmer, and more inviting. To maximize its impact, keep windows clean and unobstructed, and choose light-coloured or sheer window treatments that allow sunlight to flow freely.Arranging furniture thoughtfully can also enhance the effect: avoid blocking windows with bulky pieces, and position mirrors to reflect light into darker corners. Even small touches, like light-coloured walls or reflective décor, can help bounce sunlight throughout a room.The result is a brighter, airier home that feels more open and welcoming, perfect for making the most of your space and creating an uplifting environment for family and guests alike.

TRY THIS!

Add a reflective element like a mirror, metallic décor piece, or glass accessory near a window. This will instantly bounce sunlight into darker corners of the room, making your space feel larger, more vibrant and inviting.

ONE POT TOMATO-BASIL PASTA

Ready in 25 Mins. | Yield: 4 | 417.5 / 1 Serving

INGREDIENTS

  • 12 ounces pasta (Rotini or Linguine)
  • 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 large sweet onion, cut in julienne strips
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
  • 2 large basil sprigs, chopped
  • 4 1/2 cups vegetable broth (regular broth and NOT low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Parmesan cheese (to garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Place pasta, tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, in a large stock pot. Pour in vegetable broth. Sprinkle on top the pepper flakes and oregano. Drizzle top with oil.
  2. Cover pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low simmer and keep covered and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes or so. Cook until almost all liquid has evaporated - (about an inch of liquid in the bottom of the pot or reduce as desired.
  3. Season to taste with salt and pepper, stirring pasta several times to distribute the liquid in the bottom of the pot. Serve garnished with Parmesan cheese.
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*Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale and/or buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
*Information provided is for general purposes only. Readers should independently verify tips, advice, or suggestions. Outcomes may vary.
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