Sharon Makarchuk Real Estate

11/09/2026

Adding a sauna at home can turn your living space into a personal retreat, if you pick the right setup. 🧖‍♂️

Traditional, infrared, and steam saunas each come with their own benefits and requirements. In Whitby and the Durham Region, a traditional sauna usually means a bigger electrical job, often needing a hardwired connection and careful code compliance. Infrared models are more plug-and-play and can fit into a wider range of spaces, which can simplify the process for many homeowners. Steam saunas add extra considerations like ventilation and moisture management, so planning ahead is key. 🛠️

No matter which type you’re drawn to, safety is non-negotiable. Ensuring your installation uses the right electrical components, keeps clearances, and follows all Ontario regulations makes a huge difference, especially if your home is mid-renovation or needs a few updates before installation. Every project should balance comfort, cost, and what suits your daily routine best.

If you were putting in a sauna, which type would fit your lifestyle? Let me know below!

11/05/2026

Choosing the right fireplace for your Durham Region home isn’t just about heat, it's about how you want to live. 🔥

Gas, electric, and wood-burning fireplaces each bring something unique. Gas models stand out for their convenience and flame realism, making them a go-to for main living spaces where both warmth and easy operation matter. Electric options shine in renovations or condos where venting is tricky, letting you place them in bedrooms or tight spaces without major installation work. Wood-burning fireplaces deliver that authentic crackle and aroma, but they come with their own set of lifestyle considerations, from tending to fuel and chimneys to ensuring proper ventilation and annual inspections. 🪵

Today's designs often treat fireplaces as the centerpiece, with integrated feature walls and finishes that set the tone for the whole room, think large porcelain or stone, minimalist surrounds, and tech-savvy controls for daily use. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or updating a fixer-upper, the best fireplace is one that fits both your room’s needs and your everyday routine. 🏡

If you could add any type of fireplace to your next home, which would you choose and why? Let’s hear your take!

11/02/2026

Designing your dream closet starts with choosing the right setup, walk-in or reach-in? 🚪✨

Walk-in closets offer the feel of a personal dressing room, with space for mirrors, seating, and a spot for every accessory. They let you organize clothing, shoes, and jewelry in dedicated zones, turning the simple act of getting ready into a daily pleasure.

Reach-in closets, on the other hand, can transform even a smaller home. By using adjustable shelves, double-hanging rods, and smart drawer layouts, these systems make the most of every inch, so no space goes to waste. 🗄️

Whether you’re planning a major upsize, downsizing to a more manageable home, or refreshing a place that needs a little love, the real magic comes from planning your closet around your actual wardrobe and habits, not just following a template. Local pros in Whitby, Oshawa, and Durham Region recommend thinking about what you own, how you like to organize, and what storage styles keep your mornings stress-free. 💡

If you were redesigning your closet, would you go for a walk-in or an optimized reach-in? Share which style fits your daily routine best!

10/28/2026

Brooklin is seeing a wave of new-home communities taking shape along its most established streets. 🏡

Recent development activity in Whitby’s Brooklin area has brought a wide mix of options, think modern urban towns, family-sized detached homes, and freehold townhomes all within close reach of Baldwin Street, Columbus Road, Ashburn Road, Highway 7, and Roybrook Avenue. Local names like Madison Group, Sorbara, Tribute, Treasure Hill, and Mattamy are leading these projects, each bringing their own style and variety.

Builders are responding to demand for both upsizers and downsizers by including compact two-bedroom layouts alongside larger homes suited for growing families. What stands out: new communities often feature walkable spaces, parks, and improved infrastructure, like updated sewer servicing, aimed at supporting long-term growth. While listings can sound tempting, it’s key to check project status, builder reputations, and what’s actually available before making a move, since pricing, incentives, and timing can shift.

Thinking about making a move in Brooklin? Which style of home would best fit your plans, townhome or detached? Let’s talk about what’s possible. 👇

10/26/2026

The smartest master-bedroom renovations in Whitby start with a little homework. 🛠️

Not every stunning upgrade calls for a permit, but once you go beyond surface-level changes, like taking down or adding walls, adjusting windows or doors, or touching anything to do with plumbing or HVAC, local rules mean it’s time to check with the town. Cosmetic improvements, such as new paint or lighting fixtures, usually don’t need approval. Still, it pays to separate what’s just for style from changes that actually alter the structure or systems.

Plan your comfort zone with thoughtful storage, layered lighting, and easy movement, but always map out the regulated work before you dive in. A builder, designer, or your real estate guide can help ensure you’re set up for both dream results and a smooth process. ✨

Have you ever been surprised by a permit requirement during a renovation? Share your experience or tips below! 👇

10/14/2026

A smart inspection can be your ultimate tool for mapping out every room’s renovation needs in advance. 🛠️

Instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all estimate, walk through each space and turn findings from your inspection into a written room-by-room scope. Look beyond surface upgrades and take note of details, structural work, plumbing, electrical, or even areas that might require permits or extra approvals. This makes it easier to separate cosmetic updates from bigger projects that will impact your timeline and budget. 🏡

Once you have a clear list, compare contractor estimates for each area, making sure quotes include everything from labor and materials to design allowances and any potential exclusions. Don’t forget to plan for essentials like taxes, permits, possible accommodation during the work, and an extra cushion for surprises. In places like Whitby and Oshawa, local requirements can vary, so checking with the municipality up front is a step that keeps renovations on track and stress levels low. ✔️

If you’re weighing up a move or thinking about buying a home that needs work, how would you prioritize your renovation list? Share your approach in the comments!

10/08/2026

10/08/2026

Welcome to an exceptional modern executive bungalow where sophisticated design, luxury finishes, & peaceful rural living come together. Set on a beautifully treed lot, this remarkable home offers an extraordinary lifestyle with golf & ski resorts just minutes away.
From the moment you arrive, the home's striking modern architecture & exquisite craftsmanship make a statement. A custom front door opens to a thoughtfully designed interior featuring soaring ceilings, oversized windows, expansive living spaces, & an abundance of natural light.
The heart of the home is the spectacular open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area. The designer kitchen is built for both entertaining & everyday luxury, featuring a massive 10-foot island, 2 sinks, 2 dishwashers, a 48” 6-burner induction range with double ovens & built-in refrigerator. The living room is anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace. Expansive 9-foot sliders lead seamlessly outdoors to a massive composite deck, extending the living & entertaining space into the private natural surroundings.
The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring generous proportions & a stunning ensuite with heated floors, oversized shower & luxurious soaker tub. Bedrooms 2 & 3 share an impressive semi-ensuite with double vanities, water closet, and large shower. All bedrooms are spacious & finished with custom closet organizers.
The fully finished lower level adds an exceptional second living experience, with oversized windows, a 2nd propane fireplace, spacious family room, games room with wet bar & beverage fridge, dedicated exercise area, & a beautifully finished bathroom with heated floors.A standout feature is the sauna with direct access to the shower room — an indulgent private wellness retreat within your own home.
The oversized 2-car garage can accommodate 2 lifts, offering exceptional flexibility. A rare opportunity to own a truly distinctive modern home where design, luxury, privacy, & lifestyle come together beautifully.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us to schedule your private tour of 625 Townline Road W and see how this stunning home fits your lifestyle.

08/07/2026

Whitby's summer market didn’t stick to one script, buyers and sellers both saw surprises. 🏡

July 2026 brought mixed signals in Whitby. Some reports pointed to homes selling faster and at higher prices, while others suggested a steadier, more balanced pace. The result? Every move, whether up, down, or into a fixer-upper, required paying close attention to what was happening right in each neighborhood.

Instead of one big market story, it was all about property type, location, and how buyers and sellers approached each listing. More choices opened up for those ready to move, and well-presented homes still drew strong interest. If you’re aiming to upsize, downsize, or take on a renovation project, understanding these shifts helps you decide when, and how, to act. ✨

What kind of market change would help you feel more confident about your next move in Whitby? Tell me your thoughts below. 👇

07/31/2026

Open-air summer markets bring Whitby’s community to life and set the tone for a season full of fresh finds and local flavor. 🍓

Week after week, visiting the Whitby and Brooklin farmers’ markets offers more than just a chance to shop for local produce and artisan treats. These markets become lively gathering spots where families, friends, and newcomers cross paths, enjoying casual conversations, trying something new, or scouting ingredients for a home-cooked meal. It’s the kind of outing that blends routine with the pleasure of discovery, rain or shine.

For anyone thinking about what makes a neighborhood feel like home, especially those considering upsizing, downsizing, or buying a place with room for renovation, soaking up the local market scene is a genuine way to connect with what Whitby is all about. You get a firsthand sense of community energy and simple joys that make summer memorable. 🥖🌻

Have you found a favorite vendor or unexpected treat at one of these markets? Tell me about your market must-haves below!