FAQs
New Homeownership Support FAQ
It’s a suite of personalized services designed to help you understand, maintain, and confidently manage your new home or cottage. I offer in-person walkthroughs, 1-on-1 coaching, and seasonal property orientations—each tailored to your unique situation.
If you’ve just moved in and aren’t sure how your systems work (like your water shut-off or septic), start with the Home Interpretation Service.
If you’re overwhelmed and not sure what to do as a new homeowner in general, the First-Time Buyer Coaching session is a great starting point.
If you’ve recently purchased or inherited a cottage, the Cottage Orientation is your best bet.
Not sure? Contact me and we’ll figure it out together.
This is a 2-3 hour, in-person walkthrough where I explain your home’s key systems in plain language. We’ll cover:
- Water shut-offs
- Heating and cooling basics
- Electrical panel and breakers
- Filters and maintenance areas
- Septic system (if applicable)
- Emergency shut-down points
You’ll get tips on what to monitor, how to avoid damage, and where to find things—plus timestamped photos and notes upon request.
Cost: Starts at $399
Great for: First-time buyers, newcomers to rural living, or as a realtor gift
This is a 1 – 1.5 hour session (in person or online) where we focus on:
- Building your basic tool kit (without wasting money)
- Seasonal maintenance must-dos
- How to spot early signs of common issues
- A custom Homeowner Starter Checklist
- Time for Q&A—ask me anything you’ve been Googling!
Cost: Starting at $225
Great for: First-time buyers who don’t know where to begin or want a plan for their first year of homeownership
This is a one-on-one, in-person walkthrough focused on the unique needs of cottages and seasonal properties. We’ll cover:
- Shut-off valves and winterizing tips
- Power outage prep
- Heating sources and backup options
- Septic basics and water system care
- Pest prevention and seasonal wear checks
- Opening and closing best practices
Cost: Flat rate of $449
Great for: New cottage owners, inherited family properties, or seasonal renters who want peace of mind
No prep needed! Just make sure I can access the areas we need to review (like your utility room, electrical panel, etc.). If you have questions or specific concerns, jot them down and we’ll cover them.
Yes! These services make fantastic gifts for first-time buyers, adult children moving into their first home, or new cottage owners. Gift certificates are available.
Yes, depending on the service, you’ll receive:
- A checklist or summary with personalized notes
- Seasonal to-do lists (when applicable)
- Links to trusted resources or beginner-friendly tools
- For interpretation or orientation sessions: optional photo documentation
Absolutely! I offer follow-up services through my Handywoman Services or Teach & Go sessions if you’d like to learn how to do it yourself. We’ll make a plan based on your comfort level.
Nope! While rural systems do have quirks I help explain, these services are just as valuable for townhomes, older properties, or even new builds. If you’ve never owned a home before—or it’s been a while—this is for you.
Yes! Many agents offer these services as closing gifts to help clients feel supported after the sale. I’m happy to coordinate with realtors or brokerages directly.
You don’t need to figure it all out alone. With clear guidance and hands-on support, you’ll feel more confident from day one.
Handywoman Services FAQ
I do the small the jobs that don’t need a contract but are either too time consuming or difficult of the homeowner. I’ve identified a few services that I receive the most inquiries about, but it is not extensive. If you don’t see the service you’re in need of, reach out to see if is within my wheelhouse.
Yes! I’ve assembled PAX systems, kitchen cupboards, dressers, desks, chairs and many other items. |
Yes, I can give a fresh look to an older space and help you get your…ADD IN HERE
Yes. I paint and stain standard size rooms and some single-story cottages. Please contact me to see if your cottage is within my wheelhouse.
Yes, I can repair small or large holes.
Yes, I install laminate flooring. I do not install hardwood flooring or vinyl flooring. |
I can replace faucets and toilets; I do not do new plumbing installations. |
Yes, I can replace ceiling lights.
I do have experience with trim work however it is not my strong suit. |
Yes, I can build outdoor furniture, sheds, bookcases, etc. |
No, I do not have the property equipment at this time, nor do I work about 10 feet. |
No, I do not plow lanes or remove snow off roofs. If accessible, I will keep entrance ways, walkways, decks, or porches clear of snow.
No, I do not do well with heights, I do not go on roofs nor work above 10 feet. |
My minimum fee is $90 which includes 2-hours of service. Anything above 2 hours is $45/hour. Depending on your location, a travel fee may be applied. |
Yes, I carry full coverage liability insurance. |
I cover all North Frontenac, the north part of Central Frontenac and the western edge of Lennox and Addington. Some of the lakes I have clients on include Big Gull, Brule, Buckshot, Canonto, Crotch, Kashwakamak, Kennebec, Malcolm, Marble, Mazinaw, Mink Track, Mississagagon, Palmerston, Pine, Sand, Shabomeka, Sharbot, Shawenegog, Skootamatta, White. Some of the communities I serve include Ardoch, Cannot, Cloyne, Fernleigh, Flinton, Harlow, Henderson, Kaladar, Macdonalds Corners, Massagnoga, Mississippi Station, Myers Cave, Northbrook, Ompah, Plevna, Sharbot Lake and Snow Road Station.
Yes, HST is applied to all my services. |
Property Check Services FAQ
Together, we draft a scope of service to ensure the items. If you have a task on that checklist, it gets done.
Yes. I charge my minimum rate of $90 plus any municipal waste site tipping fees. |
Yes, I have experience testing and regulating hot tub chemicals. |
I offer 3 levels of packages which are priced depending on the level of service you require. Each package has its own price point which is can be found by clicking here.
Yes, I carry full coverage liability insurance. |
Yes, HST is applied to all my services. |
Teach & Go and DIY FAQ
Teach & Go is my signature service for clients who want hands-on learning and real-time support. It’s a 90-minute, one-on-one session (either in-person or online) where I work right beside you to walk through a repair or small project. You’ll learn how to use tools properly, get tips you won’t find on YouTube, and finish the task with confidence.
Clients love Teach & Go because it’s practical, empowering, and completely personalized. Whether you’re patching drywall, changing a faucet, or assembling furniture—you’ll be learning as you go, with someone you trust right there to guide you.
My DIY services are hands-on learning sessions for women who want to build confidence and learn how to handle repairs, maintenance, and small projects around their home or workspace. Whether you’re brand new to tools or just need guidance on a specific task, these sessions are all about learning by doing—with me by your side.
Teach & Go is a one-on-one, 90-minute session (in-person or online) where I guide you through a task or repair, step-by-step. You do the work—I provide the know-how, encouragement, and coaching.
Done-With-You DIY is a little more flexible and may include longer or repeat sessions. It’s ideal for bigger projects or clients who want more in-depth learning.
You can learn things like:
- How to patch drywall
- Replace caulking around sinks and tubs
- Install or replace a faucet
- Use a cordless drill safely
- Assemble furniture with confidence
- Hang shelves or wall décor properly
And much more! If it’s a small repair or home task, chances are I can help you learn to do it.
Nope! I’ll bring what’s needed if we’re meeting in person. If we’re online, I’ll let you know what to have on hand—or help you pick the right starter tools based on your budget and project.
Perfect. You’re in the right place. I specialize in working with women who want to build confidence and learn safely, without feeling embarrassed or overwhelmed. I’ll meet you where you’re at, and we’ll go at your pace.
Most Teach & Go sessions are 90 minutes. That gives us time to learn, work through a task together, and answer questions without feeling rushed. If we need more time, we can always book a follow-up.
DIY services are available in-person if you’re within my service area (Quinte West and surrounding), or online via Zoom if you’re farther away. For virtual sessions, I’ll send you prep info to help you feel ready and supported.
Absolutely. DIY sessions make a great gift for new homeowners, students moving into their first apartment, or anyone who wants to feel more independent at home. Gift certificates are available upon request.
Our service starts at $160 per clean and could be adjusted based on location, size of property, and scope of service. |
Absolutely. DIY sessions make a great gift for new homeowners, students moving into their first apartment, or anyone who wants to feel more independent at home. Gift certificates are available upon request.
Yes, I carry full coverage liability insurance. |
Yes, HST is applied to all my services. |
That’s the point of learning with support! Mistakes are part of the process. I’ll be there to guide you, cheer you on, and help make sure you walk away with more knowledge, not stress. No judgment, just progress.
Send me a quick message through my Contact Page. Not sure what kind of session you need? Let’s have a quick chat to figure it out.
Reach out any time—I’m happy to help you decide if a DIY service is right for you.
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