Your Home Your Way | 2025

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025

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boost — from first-time buyer tax credits to down payment assistance. “There are opportunities to reduce the financial burden, but it’s important for buyers to do their homework or work with a knowledgeable realtor who can guide them through the process,” he adds. Barrett also emphasizes that, regard- less of whether you’re considering an older home or a new build, a thorough inspection is non-negotiable.

and competitively priced. Meanwhile, new developments continue to pop up, offering modern amenities and energy efficiency that appeal to younger families and retirees alike. Beaulieu says local credit unions and financial institutions are often well-positioned to help buyers navigate these choices. “We work with buyers to understand their goals and budget,” she says. “And we always recommend getting pre-approved so you’re shopping within your means from the start.” Ultimately, the decision be-

New builds, by contrast, offer clean slates and contemporary layouts designed for open living, modern energy efficien- cy standards and minimal immediate maintenance. “With new homes, you’re starting fresh but it’s still important to think about personalization to make it feel like your own,” Maslaniec says. “Some structures

and layouts within the space confines can be changed. An example would be adding a pen- insula in a kitchen that was built long and narrow.” Having open shelves or glass inserts on cabinets, she says,

Never underestimate the value of a good support team. Having trusted professionals — a realtor, a lender, a home inspector — makes all the difference. ~ Michael Barrett

tween an older home and a new build comes down to personal priorities and practical consider- ations. Buyers drawn to history and character may find their dream home in an established neighbourhood, while those prioritizing low maintenance and energy efficiency might lean toward new construction.

would make it look more open, and making the cabinet depth narrow and capitalizing on verti- cal space is a great way to use the existing layout. For first-time buyers, the challenges of saving for a down payment while managing rent and other expenses can feel daunting. Considering these struggles, it is important to tap into available programs, Brandon Area Realtor executive officer Michael Barrett says. “We’ve been advocating for programs to help the first-time homebuyer get into their first home,” Barrett says. He explains municipal, provincial, and federal incentives can provide a critical

“We recommend a professional home inspection every time,” he says. For older homes, this is especially cru- cial to uncover potential issues with foun- dations, roofs, or outdated systems. But even new builds benefit from a trained eye, as construction defects or incomplete work can occasionally slip through. Manitoba’s real estate market has its traits. In communities like Brandon, older homes may be more readily available

Barrett says buyers should take time to assess not just the aesthetics but also the long-term costs, potential renovations, and financial supports available: “Never underestimate the value of a good support team. Having trusted professionals — a realtor, a lender, a home inspector — makes all the difference,” he says. » aodutola@brandonsun.com » X: @AbiolaOdutola

Brandon Area Realtors executive officer Michael Barrett says it’s important for first-time homebuy- ers to tap into available financial programs. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)