For Sale: A Stunning Country Oasis

I'm excited to share one of the latest listings that Katrina and I have available. Nestled in the hills above Creemore, this home sits atop a sprawling 50-acres, making it a gem, unlike anything else around. 

The four + one-bedroom, three-bath home was built and lovingly maintained by the current sellers, Scott and OJ, features craftsmanship and attention to detail, making this a high-quality option for both part-time and full-time residential buyers. I know that country living may be a new idea for some, so I've interviewed Scott and OJ for their take on what makes the property special. Their journey is remarkable, and I'm excited for their next adventure! If you’re interested in seeing this home, contact me today. 

The post and beam home was originally built in 1991, with recent renovations completed in 2010. Scott and OJ had known the area for years, having actively skied at Devil's Glen with family. In search of more space than the family chalet could offer, the sellers started their property search with specific criteria: something that had expansive views and offered privacy from a wooded lot. 

After considering a few options, Scott and OJ were surprised by the 50-acre parcel of land, minutes from Creemore, Devil's Glen, Blue Mountain, and the Bruce Trail. Despite driving through the area for years, they had never come across the enclave tucked in the hills. Ticking all of their "must-have" boxes, the property also had the bonus of a stream running through the woods. 

With the gorgeous landscape, Scott and OJ were eager to design the perfect home to complement the setting. They share that their principal goal was to "bring the outdoors in, with lots of windows to the south. We wanted an open-concept space with cathedral ceilings and a loft, allowing principal spaces, like the kitchen and living room, to flow naturally into one another. "

With the custom craftsmanship build by recognized timber framing expert, Normerica, the two achieved this vision and more. Perfect for entertaining, the 4800-square-foot home's open floor plan is anchored by 100-year-old maple flooring. Skylights and windows allow natural light to stream in, while a cozy woodstove and screened-in porch provide the perfect setting. No matter what time of year, the house is the perfect place to watch wildlife around the half-acre pond or take in the sunsets over the hills of Creemore.

The impressive post and beam detailing was a natural fit for Scott and OJ, who were eager to incorporate the character into the design choice, noting that "Post and beam felt comfortable and casual. The wood kept the space from feeling too formal. From a structural standpoint, post and beam allowed flexibility– any wall can be changed, moved, added, subtracted." This was important in 2010 when they worked again with Normerica to renovate the custom kitchen. Seamlessly blending the old and new parts of the home, the open design updated the house. 

Following the build of the house, Scott and OJ transitioned from part-time to full-time residence on the property. This easy option allowed them to trade a rapidly developing area for a full-time refuge in their natural oasis. Full-time living also opened up opportunities to truly explore the natural landscape of the property. Reflecting on their adventures, the two share that there is truly no end to the fun you can have (especially given the property's full workshop and barn– makes it easy to store all the toys and tools for adventures!). 

An extensive trail network (yellow) offers hours of exploring!

"Creating trails for cross country skiing, walking, and snowshoeing was incredible. Even just puttering around the property allows for the discovery of new trail variations. We loved working with equipment, like tractors, backhoes, and bushhogs, to open up and explore what the acreage had to offer." 

Over the years, Scott and OJ have spotted deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, as well as the occasional fox and coyote. The property is constantly changing seasonally, with stunning fall colours, protected trails for winter hiking, and relaxing summer days at the pond. The family enjoyed the rural location of their property, recognizing that living in the country connected them to nature, appreciating the whiter snow, cleaner air, and brighter night skies of their location.

An active family, Scott and OJ found ways to bring their interests to the home, adding an indoor regulation size pickleball court while also carving out space for a home gym and a yoga loft. Paired with the property's acreage, barn, and workshop, the home quickly became a destination for friends and family, offering new ways to socialize and stay active. 

After decades of calling this gem home, the couple have decided to move on and head west for a new adventure… but it is certainly bittersweet. Having originally made plans to stay in the area forever, planting both figurative and literal roots in the region, Scott and OJ are moving on from the property they have watched evolve over the last 33 years. 

Scott and OJ shared that they will miss the cohesive design of the home and the stunning landscape that changes with every season (particularly the fall colours!). The location holds a soft spot for the them, as it offers a blend of gorgeous rolling countryside and the beauty of Georgian Bay while also allowing easy access to essential amenities like medical services and shopping.

For anyone considering the move to country living, Scott acknowledges it is easier now than ever. "With the constantly changing technology, moving up here is not a big deal. Your roads are plowed, so you'll rarely ever be snowed in. There is a learning curve, so prepare for things you may not be familiar with, such as septic systems or wells. But a sense of humour and a relaxed attitude will help you navigate most surprises along the way. Besides– the private nature of the lot means that if you don't want to cut the grass, you don't have to. Your neighbours will never know!"