Don  McAskin

Don McAskin

Broker of Record

Realty Executives Of Simcoe Inc. Brokerage*

Mobile:
705-727-6777
Office:
(705) 722-6333
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Checklist 1: Before You Start Looking

Before you start house hunting, Create a clear list of what’s must-have, nice-to-have, and deal breakers. Know your budget and get pre-approved for a mortgage before serious searching.

Set Your Priorities:
  • Number of bedrooms & bathrooms
  • Outdoor space / lot size
  • Proximity to work, schools, transit
  • Layout and age of home
Get Financially Prepared
  • Are you pre-approved for a mortgage?
  • What’s your price range?
  • How much do you have saved for a down payment?
  • Have you budgeted for closing costs?
  • Do you have emergency savings in place?

Ready to take the next step toward your dream home? Use our Mortgage Affordability Calculator to discover what’s comfortably within your reach—and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Don McAskin, a native of Barrie, Ontario, has been an integral part of the real estate landscape in Simcoe County for over three decades. Growing up in the Barrie area, Don has witnessed its tremendous transformation, watching the region evolve into one of the most desirable places to live in Ontario. His deep-rooted connection to the community, coupled with his extensive knowledge of the various neighborhoods and surrounding areas, sets him apart as a trusted and experienced real estate professional.

Don earned his degree from McMaster University and swiftly transitioned into real estate, obtaining his license in 1986. Since then, he has been working full-time as a realtor, helping countless clients find their dream homes and investment properties. As the Broker Owner of Realty Executives of Simcoe Inc., Don leads a successful team of real estate professionals, providing personalized and expert service to buyers and sellers alike.

With a strong belief in the importance of understanding local markets, Don prides himself on his in-depth knowledge of Barrie and the greater Simcoe County. Whether you're looking for a family home or a lucrative investment property, Don's expertise in identifying the best areas to suit your needs is unmatched. His commitment to his clients, combined with his passion for real estate, has earned him a reputation as one of the leading realtors in the region.

Don’s motto is simple: "I know neighbourhoods! Let me show you the best areas of Barrie to purchase your home or investment property." His decades of experience and strong community ties make him the ideal choice for anyone looking to buy or sell in Simcoe County.



Designation: Broker of Record

Education: McMaster University Alumni

Speciality: Investment Properties Residential Properties Commercial Properties Mortgage Investment Corp & Private Lending

Years of Experience: 35

Awards: Real Estate Broker, Mortgage Broker

Area Covered: Barrie Innisfil Alliston Collingwood Penetang Midland Angus Oro-Medonte Essa Township Clearview Springwater

Languages Spoken: English



Checklist 2: Interior & Exterior Features to Evaluate Before You Buy

Whether touring in person or virtually, use this checklist to assess condition, layout, and long-term livability.

Interior

Doors & Windows

  • Windows: single pane/thermopane
  • Door locks/latches work: yes/no
  • General window condition: good/moderate/poor

Kitchen

  • General size/colours
  • Island or prep space: yes/no
  • Countertop material & condition
  • Pantry/storage space: yes/no
  • Sink: single/double
  • Appliances included: yes/no

Family/Living Room

  • Fireplace: yes/no
  • Separate dining room: yes/no
  • Living room floor type/condition
  • Flooring type & condition
  • Wall & ceiling condition (cracks, stains): good/moderate/poor

Bathrooms and Bedrooms

  • Number of bedrooms & bathrooms
  • Closet space: adequate/limited
  • Bathroom ventilation (fan/window): yes/no
  • Signs of moisture or damage: yes/no
Exterior

Lot Details

  • Lot size/shape
  • Landscaping condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Driveway: private/shared
  • Mature trees, shrubs, etc: yes/no
  • Walkways condition & safety: good/moderate/poor

Structure Details

  • Number of stories: 1/2/3/4
  • Type of home
  • Condition of siding & paint: good/moderate/poor
  • Parking: uncovered/one paid space/ two paid spaces
  • Patio/deck: good/moderate/poor
  • Type of foundation: raised well above ground/visible cracks
  • Swimming pool: above/below/indoor/outdoor/none
  • General pool condition: good/moderate/poor
  • General roof condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Eaves troughs and downspouts: good/moderate/poor
  • Fenced backyard: yes/no
  • Fenced front yard: yes/no

Wondering which interior and exterior features are must-haves? Let Don McAskin help you refine your checklist and find the right home—faster and with confidence.

Ready to See What Fits Your Budget? Explore Don McAskin’s featured listings to understand price ranges and plan your home-buying budget.

Checklist 3: What to Look for in Home Systems

Use this checklist to spot potential issues and avoid costly surprises—whether touring in person or virtually.

Electrical System
  • Condition
  • Outlets adequate: yes/no
  • Wiring: aluminum/copper wiring
Water Service
  • Source: city/well
  • Pump age
  • Water agreement: yes/no
  • Water quality tested for potability: yes/no
Sewage/Septic System
  • Type: sewage/septic
  • Where’s septic field
  • Holding tank & system recently checked: yes/no
Heating & Air Conditioning
  • Heating Type: oil/gas/electric/steam/baseboard/heat pump/combination
  • AC Type: window/central

Unsure how to prioritize critical home systems during your inspection? Don McAskin can help you identify red flags, refine your checklist, and avoid costly surprises.

 

Checklist 4: What To Look For In Neighborhood

Location is key when it comes to finding your dream home. The right location supports your lifestyle and long-term value.

Tips

Thoroughly explore the neighborhood by visiting at different times of day to get a true sense of its atmosphere and convenience. Research amenities, schools, transportation, and community events to ensure the location suits your lifestyle.

Stay ahead of the market—sign up for Neighborhood Buzzer to receive the latest listings in your preferred neighborhood.

Location
  • Nearby facilities
  • Parks, shopping & dining nearby
  • Commute & highway access
  • Close to work
  • Low Crime Rate
  • Schools & community centres
  • Places of worship
  • Fire department

Ready to Buy? Let's Discuss!

Have questions or just curious about the process? I'd love to chat and help you figure out your next step.

Have Questions?

House Hunting Checklist

House Hunting Checklist

Home Location:  _____________________________________________________
Address:  ____________________________________________________________
Asking Price:  ________________________________________________________
Annual Property Taxes:  ______________________________________________
Mortgage Terms:  ____________________________________________________
Zoning Restrictions (ask the REALTOR®):  _______________________________

The Home’s Exterior

Lot Details

  • Lot size/shape: __________________
  • Landscaping condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Position of home on lot (compass directions):______________
  • Driveway: private/shared
  • General lot condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Front yard: sm/med/lg
  • Side yard: sm/med/lg
  • Rear yard: sm/med/lg
  • Mature trees, shrubs, etc: yes/no
  • Curb appeal: good/moderate/poor
  • Condition of walkways: good/moderate/poor

Structure Details

  • Number of stories: 1/2/3/4
  • Type of home: _________________
  • Siding: brick/brick veneer/wood/aluminum/combination
  • Condition of siding & paint: good/moderate/poor
  • Garage: attached/detached/one-car/two-car
  • Parking: uncovered/one paid space/ two paid spaces
  • Front porch: covered/enclosed
  • Fenced front yard: yes/no
  • Fenced backyard: yes/no
  • Eaves troughs and downspouts: good/moderate/poor
  • Patio/deck: good/moderate/poor
  • Swimming pool: above/below/indoor/outdoor/none
  • General pool condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Storage shed: yes/no
  • Type of roof: _________________
  • General roof condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Recent roof repairs: yes/no
  • Repair Receipts: yes/no
  • Roof Age: ____________
  • Type of foundation: raised well above ground/visible cracks


The Home’s Interior

Doors & Windows

  • Windows: single pane/thermopane
  • General window condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Door locks/latches work: yes/no

Kitchen

  • General size/colours: __________________
  • Eat-in area: yes/no
  • Cooking food/prep island: yes/no
  • Sufficient cupboard space: yes/no
  • Sufficient counter space: yes/no
  • Countertop type/condition: __________________
  • Floor type/condition: _____________________
  • Pantry: yes/no
  • Sink: single/double
  • Appliances included: yes/no
  • General appliance condition: good/moderate/poor

Family/Living Room

  • Fireplace: yes/no
  • Living room floor type/condition: __________________
  • Separate dining room: yes/no
  • Dining room floor type/condition: ___________________

Other Home Details

  • Square footage: ____________
  • Foyer closet: yes/no
  • Soundproof & fireproof shared walls: yes/no

Bathrooms

  • No. of Bathrooms: _______
  • Ensuite bathroom: yes/no
  • Floor type/condition: ___________

Bedrooms

  • No. of Bedrooms: _______
  • Floor type/condition: _____________
  • Closets: yes/no

Basement

  • Adequate headroom: yes/no
  • Finished: yes/no
  • Door to outside: yes/no
  • Utility area (laundry): yes/no
  • Storage areas: yes/no
  • Cracks in walls/floor: yes/no
  • Drained or sump pump: ____________
  • Evidence of flood/moisture: yes/no
  • Recent renovations: yes/no
  • General condition: ____________

Electrical System

  • General condition: __________
  • Sufficient outlets: yes/no
  • Amperage: __________
  • Switches: fuses/circuit breakers
  • Wiring: aluminum/copper wiring
  • Meets current codes: yes/no

Plumbing

  • Copper pipes: yes/no
  • Signs of leaks: yes/no
  • Recent repairs: yes/no
  • Age: ________
  • Meets current codes: yes/no

Water Service

  • Source: city/well
  • Well: dug/drilled
  • Does well ever run dry: yes/no
  • Capacity: ______
  • Age of pump: _____
  • Size of feeder line from well to house: ________
  • Water agreement: yes/no
  • Water quality tested for potability: yes/no

Sewage/Septic System

  • Type: sewage/septic
  • Where’s septic field: _______
  • Holding tank & system recently checked: yes/no

Heating

  • Type: oil/gas/electric/steam/baseboard/heat pump/combination
  • Age: _____
  • Output: _____
  • Recent repairs: ______

Air Conditioning

  • Type: window/central
  • Age: _____
  • Size: ______
  • Recent repairs: _______

Hot Water Heater

  • Contract: leased/owned
  • Type: gas/electric
  • No. of gallons: _______
  • Efficiency: ________
  • Age: ________

Insulation:

  • Type: ______
  • Rating: _______
  • Asbestos or UFFI: yes/no


Community

Check all that apply. Close to:

  • Schools
  • City services (fire/police/hospital)
  • Medical (doctor, dentist)
  • Shopping (grocery, pharmacy)
  • Parks
  • Playgrounds
  • Day care
  • Recreation/community centre
  • Public swimming pool
  • Public tennis courts
  • Golf course
  • Skating arena
  • Hockey arena
  • Restaurants
  • Gas station
  • Theatres
  • Public library
  • Major roads/highways
  • Places of worship
  • Possible problems: train tracks/congestion/on busy or noisy main road


Local Neighbourhood

Check all that apply:

  • Urban/suburban/rural
  • Older/newer
  • Type of homes: ________
  • Age group of homeowners: __________
  • Quiet streets
  • Adequate street lights
  • Visible power/telephone lines
  • Well-cared for homes/yards
  • Sidewalks
  • General condition:
  • Space between homes
  • Adequate street parking/overnight parking restrictions
  • Possible problems: poorly maintained roads


Have Questions?