We provide advice on traditional homes and developments as well as expert insights into specialized lifestyle properties and unique neighbourhoods. Many new buyers of lakefront property choose to rent before they buy as they lack familiarity with the Muskoka and Central Lakes regions of Ontario. This past year, the Sotheby’s Lifestyle Property Advisors (LPA) team in Port Carling and Foot’s Bay launched the “Test Drive Your Dream Home” program in association with a local luxury rentals company. This unique trial program allows pre-qualified buyers to rent selected “For Sale” properties, and if the buyer purchases the property after the rental period, a portion of the rental fee is credited towards the purchase price. LPA has also found that American buyers wanting to take advantage of the favourable US dollar appreciate a trial experience first. In addition, buyer representation often begins with a referral from a trusted US local realtor. LPA has formed strategic alliances with many top Sotheby’s teams in the USA.