As a mother, I can’t tell you how my heart swelled watching my son, Julian, and his girlfriend, Lauren, embark on their first home-buying adventure. This wasn’t just any step-it was the beginning of their journey together, building a future they could truly call their own. They weren’t just after a house; Julian had his heart set on a place with open space, where they could grow into their dreams and where he could expand his construction business. Julian has always loved the outdoors, so I knew he’d want somewhere that offered that kind of freedom.

They found it at 5251 5th Line in New Tecumseth—a beautiful property with over .66 of an acre. This wasn’t just a piece of land; it had a story all its own. Sue and Steve, the previous owners, had made this property their home for over 40 years. Sue had grown up here from the time she was six, and after so many wonderful years, she and Steve decided to retire up north to a 50-acre property where they could start a tree farm. Every tree on this property, Steve planted and cared for with his own hands, so Julian and Lauren were inheriting something special.

For Julian, it was perfect. There was enough land to roam, a huge garage to house his equipment, and even a chicken coop! He’s already imagining farm-fresh eggs and, in true Julian fashion, has a plan to bring a couple of dogs into the mix. Lauren’s not so sure about the chickens yet (or the dogs, for that matter!), but they’re already building their vision for this place. And who knows? Maybe down the line, they’ll build a beautiful new home here—with a cozy in-law suite for Mom, if I’m lucky.

But let me tell you, this wasn’t an easy win. The house came on the market while I was in Italy, and there were only four days to make an offer. As soon as I landed back in Toronto, I was on it. I scheduled a viewing, prepared all the paperwork, and set things in motion. I was hoping maybe we’d be the only ones who saw its potential, but as the offer date approached, we found ourselves up against nine other buyers. I couldn’t let this slip through our fingers. I knew how much Julian and Lauren wanted it, so I put all my experience and motherly grit into making it happen-and, we did it. We won.

It’s such a joy knowing my kids are starting their lives in a place they truly love. They’ve already got projects underway, clearing some trees (all per Steve’s recommendations, of course) and refreshing the inside with new paint. The garage will be their next big project, and I’m thrilled to see how it all comes together. Yes, there’s more work ahead, and maybe a little more money to spend than expected, but that’s how homeownership goes. It’s about investing in something that will grow with you.