Welcome back to another edition of The Creative Hub of Elgin County.
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Every week, this newsletter plays matchmaker between Elgin County and the people making things happen here.
It connects neighbours with local events, shines a light on small businesses and creators, and helps great ideas reach the audiences they deserve. Because when we show up for what’s happening around us, we don’t just fill calendars — we build momentum.
Got something coming up? Launching something new? Running a local business you’d love more eyes on? Send it our way anytime.
And if you know someone who enjoys discovering local gems, pass this along — the more people involved, the stronger this community becomes.
Now, here’s what’s on tap for this week 👇
Event Roundup for this week
Lenten Organ Recital Series Returns
Central United is extremely pleased to announce that the Lenten Organ Recital Series is resuming this season!
Join us Wednesdays at 12 noon on February 18; March 4, 11, 18, 25; and April 1. Each concert is $10 and includes a light lunch and beverage. All are welcome.
We’re delighted to welcome this lineup of wonderful musicians:
February 18 – Sandy Kazubowski-Houston
March 4 – Dr. Wayne Carroll
March 11 – Chris Fischer
March 18 – Kennedy Kimber-Johnson
March 25 – Gerald Vreman
April 1 – Laurence Williams
We look forward to sharing beautiful music and community with you throughout the Lenten season.
Join us on the ice for Curl for Kids’ Sake: Luck O’ the Irish Bonspiel as we proudly celebrate 55 years of Big Brothers Big Sisters St. Thomas–Elgin. Taking place Saturday, March 14th at the St. Thomas Curling Club, teams of four can register for $300 per team and collect pledges to help raise vital funds for local mentoring programs. Enjoy a great day of curling complete with food, drinks, and prizes, all while supporting life-changing mentorships that have been strengthening our community for 55 years.
❄️ Selling Your Home This Winter? Why It Can Work — And How to Do It Right
Listing your home in winter might seem unconventional, but it can be a strategic opportunity—especially with fewer sellers on the market and motivated buyers still looking. Here are the top three tips to help winter sellers stand out and succeed:
1️⃣ Price Smart for a Smaller, Serious Buyer Pool
Winter buyers tend to be motivated (relocations, timing, lifestyle changes).
But with fewer listings available, buyers are price-savvy and knowledgeable.
Work with your agent to analyze recent comparable sales and price your home competitively to attract showings and avoid long days on the market.
2️⃣ Turn Winter Into a Selling Advantage with Staging & Curb Appeal
First impressions still matter—even in snow.
Clear walkways, steps, and driveway after snowfall.
Add warm lighting, a tasteful winter wreath, and a clean entryway.
Inside:
Let in natural light (clean windows, open curtains).
Use warm, inviting lighting and maintain comfortable temperatures.
Add cozy touches like throws and area rugs.
Ensure doors/windows seal properly and the home feels efficient and well-maintained.
3️⃣ Be Prepared & Flexible with Winter Logistics
Winter weather can affect showings, inspections, and appraisals.
Keep your home show-ready, entrances clear and well-lit, and be flexible with showing times—even evenings or weekends.
Anticipate winter-specific inspection findings (like ice dams or heating performance) and have maintenance documentation ready to reassure buyers.
Accommodating closing dates or timelines can help attract buyers working around job or school schedules.
💡 Final Thought
Winter isn’t about waiting for spring—it’s about using the season to your advantage with strategic pricing, thoughtful staging, and proactive flexibility. With fewer competitors and motivated buyers, a well-prepared winter listing can deliver great results!
➡️ For the complete tips, read the full blog:
The Top Three Tips for Listing Your Home for Sale in the Winter in Canada
Graham Beatty — Real Estate Professional
Reach out at [email protected] to discuss selling your home this winter.
Help us spotlight local
We are always looking for new community content to feature in this newsletter, including local businesses, community groups, and upcoming events across our riding.
Right now, celebrating what is happening locally and supporting Canadian communities feels more important than ever. If you know of a great business to highlight, an event coming up, or a community initiative doing good work, we would love to hear about it.
Send your suggestions to us anytime and help keep this newsletter focused on what matters most, our community.
