N G A G E
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N V I S I O N
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N E R G I Z E
What’s Coming Up: An Education Spotlight
Look At Us Grow! Expanding What’s Possible
Powered by Partnership: Celebrating Our Trusted 2025 Holiday Sponsors
Giving Back: Good Deeds, Great Impact
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JANUARY 2026
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JANUARY
E D U C AT I O N S P OT L I G H T
JAN
14
NUMBERS THAT MATTER: UNDERSTANDING THE FINANCIAL * HEALTH OF YOUR REAL ESTATE BUSINESS with Jennifer Hume
JAN
15 JAN
22 JAN
28 JAN
28
Join us IN-PERSON or VIRTUALLY for a variety of relevant training opportunities. Scan the QR Code or go to RemaxEscarpmentNiagara.EventBrite.com to register unless otherwise indicated in the course description.
*Multiple dates
IN-PERSON ONLY | QUEENSTON OFFICE | 10:00am – 12:00pm
Behind every successful REALTOR® is a business powered by clear, accurate numbers. This engaging workshop demystifies bookkeeping and shows agents how organized financials reveal hidden opportunities for growth. Through real-world examples, participants learn to: Identify 3 biggest money leaks in their books, spot red flags in income and expense reports, understand why bookkeeping is far more than a tax-time task—it’s a critical business tool. Agents leave with a clearer picture of their business health and practical steps to take control of their profitability and future. Join us for this class and workshop and start keeping more money in your pocket!
BOLDTRAIL: BEYOND SETUP with Eric Johnson
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL | WINTERBERRY OFFICE | 10:00am – 12:00pm You’ve setup your profile and have your contacts in BoldTrail, now what? Join Eric as he walks you through the different features of BoldTrail and helps you discover how to fully utilize this great tool, sharing practical tips, real-world examples, and best practices that will help you streamline your workflow, stay organized, and maximize your success using the platform every day.
HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS IN A BEAR REAL ESTATE MARKET with Conrad Zurini
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL | WINTERBERRY OFFICE | 10:00am – 12:00pm As we move into this “new normal” market—where decisions take longer and selling cycles are extended—it’s more important than ever to be intentional about how you grow your business. Building strong, repeatable systems creates consistency and trust, even in slower conditions. This course is designed to help you develop that stickiness by nurturing relationships, staying top of mind, and creating a sustainable referral pipeline that supports long-term success.
FROM RENTING TO OWNING: LEARN HOW TO GET YOUR BUYERS UP TO 10% TOWARDS THEIR DOWN PAYMENT WITH WELCOME HOME NIAGARA with Kelly Sauriol
IN-PERSON ONLY | ST. CATHARINES OFFICE | 11:00am – 12:00pm
Many would-be buyers in Niagara are mortgage ready but stuck on one thing: the down payment. This session is designed specifically for realtors who want to understand how the Welcome Home Niagara program can help eligible buyers receive up to 10% toward their down payment, provided by the Region of Niagara. We’ll cover: How the 10% down payment contribution works, Real success stories from this years program, Who typically qualifies (and common misconceptions), Purchase price limits and buyer requirements, How this program can turn renters into buyers sooner, How to confidently introduce this option in buyer conversations to get them off the sidelines. Lunch provided after the class.
NEW AGENT TRAINING: A 6 WEEK PROGRAM with Elizabeth Peters
VIRTUAL ONLY, WEEK 1-5 10:00 – 12:00 | JAN 28 | FEB 4,11,18 & 25 IN PERSON, WEEK 6 10:00 – 12:00 | MAR 4 | QUEENSTON OFFICE
A 6-week program for new EN Realtors (licensed within the last two years) designed to build a strong foundation in real estate. The program covers core fundamentals such as agency under TRESA, MLS systems, and GeoWarehouse, and provides in-depth training on agreements, WebForms, and property research, concluding with hands-on negotiation strategies and essential business practices.
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THE MOUNTAIN METHOD: 100 DAYS TO PEAK PERFORMANCE with Eric Johnson
ESCAPRMENT
ESCARPMENT SCAN TO REGISTER
NIAGARA SCAN TO REGISTER
IN-PERSON ONLY | FAIRVIEW OFFICE | 10:00am – 12:00pm Feb 10, 17, 24 | Mar 3, 10, 24, 31 | Apr 7, 14 , 21, 28 | May 5, 12, 19, 26
NIAGARA IN-PERSON ONLY |NIAGARA FALLS OFFICE | 10:00am – 12:00pm Feb 12, 19, 26 | Mar 5, 12, 26 | Apr 2, 9, 16 , 22, 30 | May 7, 14, 21, 28 You’ve set goals before. You’ve promised yourself “this time will be different.” But somehow, life gets in the way. Your schedule stays full, your energy stays low, and your potential sits untapped. You’re just stuck in a pattern that isn’t working anymore. It’s time to change that — for good. This isn’t a sales course or some motivational fluff! This is a proven framework focused on sustainable performance with accountability and structure. If you want to close the gap between where you are and where you want to go and gain more consistency in your life, better focus, clear priorities and measurable improvement, then sign up today!! Course includes guided in-person sessions, participant workbook, pre and post course performance assessment and facilitated discussions and applications. Limited to 30 seats per cohort. (if we get enough interest we will open additional cohorts)
FEB
19
MARKET UPDATE IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL | WINTERBERRY OFFICE 10:30am – 12:00pm MARKET UPDATE – STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE Market Update is your chance to tackle today’s challenges and gain practical strategies from Broker of Record Conrad Zurini alongside our trusted partners at RBC, Escarpment Law, and Mission35 Mortgages. Together, we break down the latest market trends, financing options, and legal insights so you can serve clients with confidence, while also providing timely updates on current economic conditions, real estate market activity, and new or enhanced internal tools, partners, and resources that support your business.
SCAN TO REGISTER
Market Update is more than just information — it’s your opportunity to step back from the day-to-day, reset your perspective, recharge your confidence, and sharpen your edge so you’re better prepared to navigate conversations, decisions, and opportunities in a fast-moving market.
Strongly recommended for all agents and assistants. Lunch will be provided for all in-person attendees following this update.
COST
$350 CDN
4|T H E
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LO O K AT US GROW RE/MAX
ESCARPMENT
OUDAI MICHELLE AL-RADAIDEH BAILEY
DAVID BAKOWSKY
DESIREE BOUCHER
COLIN CANNELLA
CHRISTINA CLAVERO
CARLOS CLAVERO PINTO
BURLINGTON NORTH
OAKVILLE
SOT H E BY’S RE ALT Y
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
UPPER JAMES
WINTERBERRY
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
THERESE CORMIER
SPENCER FEARON
GREGORY PAUL FRASER
MARK GARRETT
JORDAN INCE
MARY INKSATER
MARISSA JOCHIM
QUEENSTON
BURLINGTON SOUTH
OAKVILLE
QUEENSTON EXP REALT Y
BURLINGTON NORTH
BURLINGTON SOUTH
OAKVILLE
DEANNA LOWRY
TRISHA LOZYNSKY
PRAVIN MANOHAR
LEJLA MASOVIC
ROB MCKICHAN
PAOLA MES
ANTONIO MIOC
ANCASTER
OAKVILLE
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
BURLINGTON SOUTH
QUEENSTON
BURLINGTON SOUTH
R E/ M A X SUCCE SS
NEW TO T H E IND U ST RY
R E/ M A X A - B R EA LT Y
N E W TO TH E I N DU STRY
T H E AGE N C Y
TH E AGE N C Y
RE /M AX H ALLM ARK ALLIAN C E
TH E AGE N C Y
REVEL REALT Y
THE AGENCY
RI G HT AT HOME REALT Y
NEW TO THE I ND USTRY
KARMA REALT Y
THE AG ENCY
RI GHT AT HOME REALT Y
CUB ECOM COMMERCI AL REALT Y
THE AGEN CY
KI NG R EALT Y CO.
RI G HT AT HO ME REALT Y
T H E
KRISZTINA NEGLIA
MADISON PARENT
HEIDI RIDDELL
SAMANTHA SPOSATO
JENNIFER STUART
JAVIER ZULETA CANIDO
OAKVILLE
BURLINGTON SOUTH
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
QUEENSTON
BURLINGTON SOUTH
UPPER JAMES
TH E AGE N C Y
ROYAL L EPAG E NRC
RE /M A X R E A LT Y S PE CI A L I STS
N E W TO TH E IN DU STRY
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I NTERNATI ONAL REALT Y FI RM
NEW TO THE I ND USTRY
RE/MAX NIAGARA
CHANTEL BURKE
AMANDA CLARKE
JENNIFER D’AMICO
DONALD EDKINS
TERESA HASSAN HOOGENDAM JAMIL
JACQUIE MILLEN
ST CATHARINES C B M OM E N T UM
NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
ST CATHARINES
FORT ERIE
ST CATHARINES
ST CATHARINES
TH E AGE N C Y
C B C O M MU NI T Y PRO FE SSIO NAL S
ALEXIS PATTERSON
MELISSA SPICER
ALEKSANDRA ZDJELAR
WELLAND
ST CATHARINES
FORT ERIE
NE W TO T H E IN DUST RY
C B MO M E N TU M
COL D WEL L B ANKER AD VANTAGE
CB MOMENTUM
ST CATHARINES KW COMPL ETE
CB MO MEN T UM
RE V E L RE ALT Y
RE/MAX
SUB BROKERAGES HALIM ALDAYAA
DOMENIC SCHULTZ
DIANA WINGER
GOLFI
GOLFI
GOLFI
NEW TO THE I ND UD STRY
NEW TO THE I ND USTRY
MI CHAEL ST. JEAN
6|T H E
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LYNN HOFFMANN’S LUXURY HOME TRENDS FOR 2026 LYNN HOFFMANN
As we look ahead to 2026, home design trends continue to evolve, reflecting changing lifestyles, priorities, and values. From smarter technology to warmer, more personal spaces, today’s buyers are seeking homes that offer comfort, functionality, wellness, and a deeper connection to nature. Here’s a look at the key trends shaping the future of residential living. 1. The bells and whistles continue with smart homes still on the rise Fully automated home networks now control security, temperature, lighting, and other functions throughout the home. Motorized shades and curtains, heated floors, and so much more are becoming standard. Smart appliances, charging stations, wine dispensers, and coffee/latte systems are all connected to the home network, creating a fully automated home powered by biometrics and voice control. The future is now with smart home networking technology. 2. Say bye-bye to open floor plans The “open the front door and see the whole house at once” concept will be on its way out for 2026. I’m seeing a shift toward defined spaces, including true dining rooms, cozy family rooms, and rooms with a specific purpose. People are returning to the comfortable, personal, and layered spaces of their own childhoods. 3. Colour and personality: A vibrant 2026 ahead Warmth and comfort are making a comeback for buyers who want designs that convey timeless beauty. All-white, cookie-cutter homes with sterile staging are no longer desirable. You’ll still need to rein in the clutter, but let personality and colour shine through. Painting rooms sterile white before selling is on the way out, and warm, timeless, classic colours are in. Benjamin Moore leads this trend with its 2026 Colour of the Year, Silhouette AF-655. Google searches for “colour drenching” are up by 179%. Painting an entire room the same colour— including bookshelves, trim, and doors—is back, with new flair. 4. Texture and warmth Moving away from harsh lines and stark whites, I’m now seeing rich, layered textures with plaster, limewash, burled wood, and fluted wood-panelled walls replacing that look. Full slabs of quartz or marble make dramatic additions for feature walls, kitchens, and bathrooms. Curated spaces, curved walls, and hidden doors still provide minimalism, but with a softer feel. Watch for barrelled ceilings and curved, arched doorways also making a welcomed comeback. 5. Specialized rooms Specialized rooms are in, keeping with the non-open-concept floor plan. In a previous blog for the RENOWNED COLLECTION, I discussed table game rooms and smaller, purposeful spaces. Creating a family table game room or a book nook surrounded by bookshelves—where you can unplug and retreat with a good book—is trending strongly. The family table game room is a perfect place for the entire family to unplug and spend quality time together. Many feature secret door access built into panelling or bookshelves for a cozy, private feel. These types of spaces are quickly replacing the traditional billiards room or big-screen TV rooms.
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Lynn Hoffmann, Broker/Manager Halton Regional Manager, Luxury Manager LHoffmann@rmxemail.net | 905-631-8118
6. Sustainable and eco-conscious homes Sustainable and eco-conscious homes are trending upward. Features such as carbon-neutral building materials, net-zero energy homes, solar panel systems, and air quality control systems are commanding top prices as they continue to grow in popularity. Google mentions for zero-energy-ready homes, whole-home batteries, and electric vehicle charging are all up. This means buyers are actively searching for eco-conscious living options that reduce their footprint and save them money. 7. Home and enhanced wellness trends Home and enhanced wellness trends have been around for a few years, with no sign of slowing down in popularity or Google searches. The high-end homebuyer seeks to enhance their wellness by creating a haven from their very hectic lives. Saunas, indoor cold plunges, pools, soaker tubs, and highfunctioning massage shower systems continue to gain popularity and remain musthaves in any luxury home. 8. Biophilia Biophilia. Do you remember this from a previous RENOWNED COLLECTION article? Connecting indoor spaces with nature through natural light, plants, and materials creates calm, relaxing environments. I’m seeing a trend where buyers will sacrifice some square footage for character and walkability. When buyers choose less square footage, outdoor space becomes even more critical—and this is where biophilia is at its best. Think walkout patios, patio rooms, decks, and walkouts from the kitchen or principal bedroom. These features extend living space and bring the outdoors indoors. 9. Overall trends The top trends, while all different, are rooted in the same needs and desires: comfort, wellness, and a connection to the outdoors that brings so much joy to our lives. Calming, comforting, and grounded colours, combined with smaller, cozier spaces, soothe the soul and bring into focus what matters most: health, happiness, and family.
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2026 OREA FORMS UPDATE: QUICK REALTOR® OVERVIEW
Nathan Morrissette Broker, Manager nmorrissette@rmxemail.net 905-380-2552
NATHAN MORRISSETTE
We want to make sure you always have the information you need to stay current with the forms you use every day. The 2026 OREA Standard Forms update brings a number of changes that will impact your client conversations, your paperwork, and the way you document your relationships and responsibilities. Here is a quick overview of what you need to know. This year’s update brings a mix of refinements, but one change stands out as the most noticeable: the new initial box beside “plus applicable taxes” in all representation agreements. This was added because consumers were still getting caught off guard by HST on commission, and in some cases the conversation wasn’t being highlighted enough. Requiring initials ensures the discussion happens every time. No assumptions, no surprises, no misunderstandings. It is a simple but meaningful improvement. One of the other key additions this year is the new set of service identification clauses for both Designated and Brokerage Representation. These optional clauses let you outline the services you may provide, such as preparing a CMA, reviewing property details, marketing, negotiation support, or help with conditions. They make it clear that these services are offered at your discretion, and they also confirm that the commission does not change if every item is not required or delivered. It is about transparency, clarity, and protecting the integrity of the agreement. The Multiple Representation forms 325, 326, 327, and 328 were also cleaned up this year. The limitations that apply to all multiple representation scenarios have now been clearly separated, making them easier to understand and explain. In the Buyer and Tenant versions, a fourth initial option was added to address situations where two buyers or two tenants represented by the same brokerage are offering on the same property, giving us a clearer and more transparent way to document those scenarios. Beyond that, many forms received small but helpful upgrades: corrected wording, standardized language, cleaned up formatting, and better organized sections. These types of adjustments may not be dramatic, but together they create smoother, clearer, more consistent documentation for all of us. A few forms saw more substantial updates. For example, listing agreements now include a dedicated Notices clause. Several new forms were also introduced, particularly around advertising consent and commission agreements in both residential and commercial scenarios, making documentation easier in situations where we previously relied on workarounds. Overall, the 2026 forms update reflects a continued push toward clearer expectations, stronger documentation, and more consistent practices across the province. The changes may be simple, but they support better conversations, better understanding, and better protection for both REALTORS® and consumers.
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COMING JANUARY 7 CONRAD
ZURINI
THE REALTOR’S CREED A
GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE SURVIVAL IN 2026 FEATURED IN
REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE
SCAN HERE TO READ ON JAN 7TH
Limited-Time Offer
THE TRUE COST OF MORTGAGE DEFAULT Great news! We have a new I N S U R A N C E limited-time offer that will make
Get up to
the homebuying journey a little easier and more rewarding.
$4,600
in cash and Avion points ®
only with an RBC ® mortgage
1
Get an eligible RBC mortgage and you could receive up to $3,500 cash and 55,000 Avion points, for a total value of up to $4,600 to help settle into your home, travel, buy merchandise or even put towards a mortgage payment. Offer is for a three-year or greater fixed closed interest rate or a five-year closed variable rate term mortgage and is available from January 1 2026- February 28 2026
For a great mortgage rate and more information on this limited-time offer, contact us anytime. We are always happy to help. Contact your RBC Mortgage specialist today!
ALANNA C. STEPHEN B.A., LLB., J.D.
AMEY HANNA B.A.(Hons), J.D.
ALDO BERLINGIERI LL.B.
BRIAN J. BENNETT B.A. (HONS.), J.D.
ALYSSA DI LALLO B.A., LL.B.
alanna@escarpmentlaw.com
amey@escarpmentlaw.com
aldo@escarpmentlaw.com
brian@escarpmentlaw.com
alyssa@escarpmentlaw.com
905 681 6998 | www.escarpmentlaw.com Oakville • North Burlington • Stoney Creek • Hamilton Mountain • Downtown Hamilton • St. Catharines • Welland
Proud IN THE SQUARE PARTNER with RE/MAX Escarpment & Niagara since 2011
TBORE
T H E B U S I N E S S O F R E A L E S TAT E
M I SS E D A N E P I S O D E? C AT C H U P N O W! SCAN HERE
2 0 2 6 R E N E WA L S A N D R E A L E S TAT E
The year 2026 is shaping up to be a defining moment for Canadian homeowners as a large wave of mortgage renewals approaches. After several years of elevated interest rates and economic adjustments, many borrowers will finally have the chance to renegotiate their terms in what appears to be a slowly stabilizing financial environment. While the transition may bring challenges, there are strong indications that it will also help rebalance the real estate market and renew consumer confidence. One of the most encouraging trends heading into 2026 is the gradual decline in borrowing costs. Inflation is expected to continue moderating, allowing the Bank of Canada to ease its policy stance. Even modest rate cuts could offer meaningful relief to households renewing mortgages originally locked in during the ultra-low-rate era of 2021. Many borrowers will face higher payments than before, but the pain is expected to be less severe than initially feared. The ripple effects of these renewals will extend across the broader real estate market. A more predictable interest rate environment tends to restore consumer confidence—something that has been restrained since 2022. Homeowners who have successfully managed five challenging years of rate fluctuations will likely feel more secure about their financial footing, encouraging modest reinvestment in renovations or even upgrading homes. This renewed stability can help unlock housing supply as people feel confident listing properties once more. From a market perspective, 2026 could mark the beginning of a more balanced and sustainable real estate cycle. Affordability pressures will persist in some regions, but the combination of stable rates, pentup demand, and steady population growth—especially through immigration—may lead to gradual price appreciation rather than volatility. Investors, too, may re-enter the market with a long-term outlook, seeking rental opportunities in growing communities. Overall, while 2026 mortgage renewals will test household budgets, they also represent an important step toward normalization. With lessons learned from the rate shock of earlier years, Canadians are better positioned to navigate change. If economic stability holds and lending conditions ease, the real estate market could regain both balance and optimism—setting the foundation for sustainable growth throughout the latter half of the decade.
LET’S GOOOOOOOOOO!! The Mission35 Hockey Winter Classic will take place:
Tuesday Feb 17 2026 Liuna 4 Ice Centre 710 Mountain Brow Blvd Hamilton ON
Any REMAX agents that want to “lace up” and take on the rockets need to email team captain Tobias Smulders: tobias@teamsmulders.com
See you on the pond!
LET’S C HAT BRIAN HOGBEN
Mortgage Broker/Owner |#M12000040
WINTERBERRY
O: 905-574-5255 | brianh@mi35.ca
Joe Giannola
OAKVILLE
C: 905-515-5051 | joeg@mi35.ca
Jacob Renshaw Mortgage Agent Lvl 1 | #M19002101
C: 289-880-0465 | jacobr@mi35.ca BURLINGTON N/ANCASTER Preston Schmidt Mortgage Agent Lvl 2 | #M08003906
C: 905-928-0051 | prestons@mi35.ca BURLINGTON SOUTH Brian Hogben Mortgage Broker/Owner |#M12000040
O: 905-574-5255 | brianh@mi35.ca
Mortgage Broker | #M17001509
UPPER JAMES Eric Spada
Mortgage Agent Lvl 2 | #M21002178
C: 289-925-4429 | erics@mi35.ca QUEENSTON Jerry Cipriani
Mortgage Broker |#M08001063
C: 905-308-3174 | jerryc@mi35.ca NIAGARA FALLS / ST. CATHARINES/WELLAND Kelly Sauriol Mortgage Agent Level 1 | #M23007941 C: 289-219-3066 | kellys@mi35.ca
AGENT TOOLS
JUST LISTED 1234 Courts Way, Burlington | $950,000 Agent Name, Sales Representative 905-545-1188
R E A L A D S (P O W E R E D BY A D W E R X) Our dedication to you and your clientele includes access to our REALADS platform, providing complimentary, automated digital listing advertisements for qualifying new residential listings for 7 days, with the option to extend at a reduced cost. Complimentary ads apply to Residential properties listed at $800,000+ in Hamilton, Halton, and surrounding areas, and $650,000+ in the Niagara Region. Ads are customizable and displayed across Facebook, Instagram, and the broader web. Additionally, personalized retargeting ads are served at no cost to viewers of your Realintro Profile, keeping you top of mind.
Email marketing@rmxemail.net for more information.
• 4 Bedrooms & 4 Bathrooms • Inground Salt Water Pool • Primary Bedroom with Ensuite
• Stainless Steel Appliances • New Custom Eat-In Kitchen • Lower Level In-Law Suite
PRICE $1,500,000
JUST LISTED!
1234 COURTS WAY, BURLINGTON AGENT NAME Sales Representative
905-545-1188 | yourwebsitehere.com
RE/MAX’s affiliation with the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) spans over 30 years, and at RE/MAX Escarpment & Niagara, all funds donated by our agents go directly to McMaster Children’s Hospital, providing assistance for families in our local communities with equipment and resources so desperately needed.
TOTAL: $101,130
2025 saw a combined donation of $101,130 to the CMN, and we invited our Top Donors to join us for a cheque presentation with Milaina Wright, the Director of Corporate Partnerships with Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, as well as Conrad Zurini. These donors combined account for an incredible 45% of the total donated this year and we couldn’t be more proud of their commitment!
CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS IN 2025: Good Shepherd — $36,000 Back row left to right: Justin Little, Wendy Tanner, Peter Sevadjian, Lynn Fee, Milaina Wright, Frank J Ruzycki, Tobias Smulders, Wesley Schilstra Middle Row left
Pediatric Hospice — $50,000
to right: Andrew Demers, Phil Golfi, Paul Makarenko, Christina Wasley, Deanna Mendes, Lisa Milroy, Rachel Morgan, Dwayne Patrie, Conrad Zurini Front Row left to right: Greg Guhbin, Chris Maynard, Stephanie Ammendolia, Lori Van Dinther,
REMAX Niagara Gives Back — $3775
Kimberly Hall
Keaton’s Children’s Hospice — $20,000
Additional Donations — $11,500
G R A N D
TOTA L
O F
G I V I N G
A L L
B AC K
I N
2 0 2 5 :
$222,405