Home Connection April 2026

Posted on Apr 21, 2026


IT’S TIME TO OPEN YOUR WINDOWS AND REFRESH YOUR HOME

Spring is a natural reset point, bringing longer days, brighter light, and a renewed sense of energy. It’s a season that encourages fresh thinking, from reorganizing living spaces to reassessing long-term goals. As nature begins to bloom, homes often benefit from the same attention, creating an environment that feels lighter, more functional, and more inviting.
For many, this seasonal shift is also an opportunity to transition spaces from winter comfort to everyday livability. Simple updates such as improving airflow, increasing natural light, and refreshing interior and exterior areas can have a noticeable impact. Beyond aesthetics, seasonal upkeep supports the overall condition of a property and helps maintain comfort through the warmer months ahead.
Whether staying in place or preparing for future plans, spring offers a practical moment to take stock of both indoor and outdoor spaces. Thoughtful attention now can help ensure a home remains well-maintained, efficient, and ready to enjoy throughout the season.
Now is also a great time to take care of the small details that are often overlooked in day-to-day routines. From checking that everything is functioning as it should to making simple adjustments that improve comfort, these efforts can make a meaningful difference in how a space feels and performs. No matter the type of home, a little seasonal attention can go a long way in creating a space that feels refreshed, organized, and ready for the months ahead.

SPRING HOME CHECKLIST

INTERIOR

☐ Replace or clean air filters
☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
☐ Deep clean high-traffic areas, vents, and baseboards
☐ Inspect windows and screens for wear or damage
☐ Check for any signs of winter-related moisture or drafts
☐ Declutter storage areas and rotate seasonal items
☐ Wipe down walls, doors, and light switches
☐ Check and clean kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans
☐ Inspect under sinks for leaks or moisture

EXTERIOR

☐ Clear gutters and downspouts
☐ Inspect roofing and siding for visible issues
☐ Clean windows, doors, and outdoor surfaces
☐ Check exterior faucets and hoses for proper function
☐ Refresh landscaping by trimming, edging, and clearing debris
☐ Examine walkways, decks, and patios for safety and upkeep
☐ Sweep and tidy entryways, balconies, or outdoor sitting areas
☐ Wash or refresh outdoor furniture and décor
☐ Check lighting fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs

TIP: It’s a great time to schedule a tune-up for bikes and other seasonal equipment early to avoid peak-season delays and ensure everything is clean, safe, and ready for regular use.

HOME SALES RISE IN MARCH

In March, 586 homes changed hands via the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) of the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR). That was up 4.1% compared to the same month a year ago and 186 more units sold over the previous month.
“Activity has certainly been picking up, which is a positive sign,” said Robin Tiller, LSTAR’s 2026 Chair. “With the change in weather, we’re very encouraged that this is just the beginning of a healthy spring market.”
Month over month, average sales price rose slightly in March at $627,112, from $622,414 in February. Noticeable month over month gains in average sales price happened in London South, with average price at $636,946, up from $617,817 the previous month, as well as St. Thomas, coming in at $562,191, up from $545,876 in February.
“Our members work with buyers and sellers every day who are feeling the weight of housing affordability,” Tiller said. “The announcements by federal and provincial governments this week are encouraging steps to help boost supply across the housing continuum and create more meaningful paths to home ownership.”
Source: https://members.lstar.ca/members/resources/communications/home-sales-rise-march- April 2nd, 2026 - London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®

2026–2027 NEW HOME HST REBATE

Starting April 1st, 2026, until March 31st, 2027, the Ontario and Federal governments are removing the 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on new homes priced up to $1 million, offering a maximum rebate of $130,000 to all buyers. This replaces the previous, smaller rebate, providing relief for new, primary residences and rental units, with partial rebates for homes up to $1.85 million.
TARGET:
Newly constructed homes or condominiums to be used as a primary residence or rented out.MAX REBATE:
$130,000 for homes up to $1 million.PARTIAL REBATE:
For homes between $1.5 million and $1.85 million, the rebate scales down from $130,000 to $24,000.ELIGIBILITY:
Applies to all buyers (not just first-time buyers) during the one-year period.TIMELINE:
Applies to purchases made between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027.FOR MORE INFORMATION, LOG ON TO: CANADA.CA

LEMON YOGURT LOAF

Bake/Cool: 50 mins
Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 223 per slice

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 3/4 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind
  • 2/3 cups Balkan-style plain yogurt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
SYRUP:
  • 3/4 cups icing sugar
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. In bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In large bowl and using fingers, rub sugar with lemon rind.
  2. Whisk in yogurt and eggs; whisk in oil. Stir in flour mixture in 2 additions. Scrape into parchment paper-lined 8- x 4-inch (1.5 L) loaf pan.
  3. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven until cake tester inserted in centre comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan on rack for 5 minutes. Remove from pan; place on small tray.
SYRUP:
In small bowl, whisk icing sugar with lemon juice until dissolved. Brush over top and sides of loaf, moving loaf around to absorb excess liquid. Let cool on rack.Recipe & Photo Source: https://tinyurl.com/2zbyry38
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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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