Alisa Herriman Real Estate

Your trusted Realtor for Simcoe North and Muskoka

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Hi, I’m Alisa Herriman, a Realtor® serving Simcoe North and Muskoka — including Orillia, Midland, Ramara, Tay, Severn, and surrounding communities. I help people buy and sell homes with clarity, confidence, and a no-pressure approach. With 20+ years of award-winning experience as an entrepreneur, I bring a unique mix of marketing expertise, negotiation strategy, and heartfelt client care to real estate. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a family property, relocating to the lake, or downsizing to your next chapter, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
  • Selling to Buy? How to Make Your Move Feel Simple and Smart.

    Selling to Buy? How to Make Your Move Feel Simple and Smart.

    Are you feeling ready to sell and move into your next right-fit home? Maybe you’re busting at the seams and need more room. Or maybe you’re craving a smaller footprint and a little more simplicity. You might be thinking about moving to lessen your commute or wanting to be closer to family. Or maybe—finally—you’re ready for that country property you’ve been dreaming about for years.

    Whatever your reason, you’ve hit a point where you know a move is coming… but you might not feel entirely sure where to start. That is incredibly common. Let’s face it, most of us only move a few times in our lifetime. It’s a big job with a lot of moving parts, and that’s exactly why the right real estate agent makes all the difference. Especially when you need to sell in order to buy.

    Working with an agent who continually studies the market has a huge impact on your strategy. Some markets make it wiser to sell first. Other markets allow you to buy and sell at the same time with confidence. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and guessing your way through it is rarely the best plan. My job as an agent is to cut through all of that overwhelm and help you create a clear, customized plan that fits your goals and timelines, while educating you on what strategy makes the most sense in today’s market.

    I live and breathe real estate. I do this job seven days a week because I’m passionate about being the best possible Realtor® for my clients. Every property sale is unique. Every purchase has its own story and set of decisions behind it. It takes a lot of attention to detail and skill to help clients move successfully and feel genuinely happy with their outcome. That’s the part I love most. I do this work because I care deeply about helping people make smart, confident decisions about their biggest asset.

    When you’re ready, we’ll sit down together and map out your plan. I’ll create a checklist to help you get organized and connect you with any professionals you may need. I’ll guide you through each step of getting your home ready to hit the market, and yes—this includes covering the cost of staging and professional photography. Your home will be marketed exceptionally well, with the goal of getting as many eyes as possible on your listing. No cell phone photos. No shortcuts. Everything is professionally orchestrated from start to finish with your best outcome in mind.

    And while that’s happening, we’ll also be searching for the right next home for you. When we find it, I’ll help you secure it and support you through your due diligence. You’ll have the connections, the information, and the guidance you need at every step.

    Moving doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right plan, and the right expert helping you create it. My hope is that you’ll be surprised at how smooth the entire process can be. 

    And when you’re ready, I’m here to help you start that journey with clarity and confidence.

    Alisa Herriman
    Local Realtor® serving Simcoe North & Muskoka
    Call/Text: 705-323-2814
    Email: alisaherriman@kw.com

  • Feeling Overwhelmed About Moving? Here’s Exactly Where to Start

    Feeling Overwhelmed About Moving? Here’s Exactly Where to Start

    If you’re thinking about making a move but feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Most families describe this stage the same way: “There are so many unknowns… we don’t even know where to start.”

    And honestly? That feeling is completely normal.

    When you’re considering selling your home and buying the next one, it’s natural for your mind to spiral through questions like:

    • Does it make sense for us to move right now?
    • Is the timing right with work, kids, and everything else?
    • Will we even find the right next home?
    • Is this a smart financial decision?
    • Who do we talk to first? A Realtor? A mortgage broker? A stager?

    This is a big life decision. It’s supposed to feel heavy at first. But here’s the truth most families forget:

    The moment you’re thinking about a move is usually the moment it’s time to create a plan.

    Not to sell tomorrow.
    Not to rush.
    Just to get clarity.

    Step One: Understand Your Equity

    Before anything else, you need to know what you’re working with.

    Your equity is the key to everything. Your next home, your budget, your confidence, and your timeline.

    The first questions we answer together are:

    • What will your home likely sell for in the current market?
    • How much equity will that give you to work with?
    • What are the prices of the homes you’re interested in?
    • Is this move financially smart for your family?

    Once you know these numbers, the fear drops and the excitement rises. Knowing unlocks everything.

    This Is a No-Pressure Conversation

    The first step is simple: we sit down and go through your goals and your numbers together.

    No pressure.
    No commitment.
    No rushing into a sign-on-the-lawn moment.

    Some clients meet with me a full year in advance of their move. Others realize that the best timing is still a year or two away. And some discover that they’re ready sooner than they thought.

    There is no “behind” or “ahead”, there is only clarity, and that’s what this meeting is all about.

    Once We Know Your Goals, We Build the Plan

    Once we have a clear picture of your goals, your equity, and your budget, we can build your personalized plan. I’ll walk you through simple improvements you can make to increase the value of your home, and connect you with trusted mortgage professionals who can verify your numbers and help you get pre-approved. I’ll explain the entire listing process so you know exactly what to expect, and we’ll talk about what you want in your next home and when we’ll begin your search. Finally, we’ll map out a realistic timeline that fits your family’s schedule, work commitments, and daily life.

    Think of it like a carefully choreographed dance — every step has a purpose, and I’m right there with you through the entire process so you never feel lost.

    We Can Help Any Family Sell and Move Into Their Next Home

    No matter your situation. Busy schedules, tight timeline, nervous about finances, unsure where to start. You are not the first and you definitely won’t be the last.

    Families do this every single day, and with the right plan, it can be smooth, smart, and empowering.

    Your First Step Is Simple

    Just sit down with me so we can map out:

    • What you really want
    • What your home is worth in today’s market
    • How much equity you actually have
    • What your realistic timelines look like
    • What you can afford next
    • Which mortgage steps to take first

    Once these pieces are in place, the stress fades and the path forward becomes clear.

    You don’t have to know everything right now. You just need to take the first step, and I’ll help you with the rest.

    Alisa Herriman, Realtor®

    📲 Text or call: 705-323-2814
    📩 Email: alisaherriman@kw.com

    I’m here when you’re ready.

  • Why Every Homeowner Should Get an Annual Real Estate Review

    Why Every Homeowner Should Get an Annual Real Estate Review

    Most people book yearly checkups for their health, their car, even their taxes. Yet the biggest financial asset they own often gets overlooked. Your home deserves the same kind of attention. An Annual Real Estate Review is a simple, fast, high-value way to stay informed, protect your equity, and make smart decisions long before you ever think about selling.

    As a local Realtor serving Simcoe North and Muskoka, I offer these reviews because markets shift constantly, and homeowners deserve clarity — not guesswork.

    Why Knowing Your Home’s Current Market Value Matters

    Staying informed isn’t about selling — it’s about being strategic. A quick annual check-in helps you:

    • Understand your current equity position (most homeowners are shocked by the number).
    • Plan renovations with intention, so you invest where it actually pays off.
    • Make informed decisions about refinancing, consolidating debt, or leveraging equity for future goals.
    • Track market trends so nothing catches you off guard.
    • See what your home is worth today instead of relying on old assumptions.
    • Prepare for life changes—upgrades, downsizing, estate planning, or investment opportunities.

    The Risks of Not Knowing Your Value

    Ignoring your home’s value can lead to:

    Missing ideal selling windows

    Real estate markets move in cycles, and the best time to sell isn’t always obvious unless you’re watching the data closely. An annual review helps you stay ahead of shifts so you don’t miss a window where demand is strong, prices are up, or competition is low.

    Overspending on renovations with little return

    Not all upgrades add value — and some may barely move the needle at all. When you know your home’s current value and what buyers in your area actually prioritize, you can invest in improvements that offer a meaningful return instead of risking putting money into the wrong projects.

    Making financial choices based on outdated information

    Equity changes every year. Relying on a guess from 2021 (or whenever your last estimate was) can lead to poor decisions about refinancing, borrowing, or long-term planning. A fresh valuation ensures your financial strategy is built on facts, not old assumptions.

    Being surprised by shifting market conditions

    Markets in Simcoe North and Muskoka can shift quickly with interest rate changes, supply levels, and buyer demand. Without regular updates, it’s easy to get caught off guard. An annual review keeps you informed so you’re never reacting late — you’re prepared.

    Delaying important life or retirement planning

    Your home is a major part of your long-term financial picture. When you don’t know its current value, it’s harder to plan your next chapter. Whether that’s upsizing, downsizing, investing, or retiring. A yearly review gives you the clarity you need to align your lifestyle and financial goals.

    The Best Part? An Annual Review Takes Only a Few Minutes

    This isn’t a long meeting or a high-pressure conversation. Your Real Estate Review can be done:

    • By phone
    • In person
    • At a time that works for your schedule

    Fast, simple, helpful — that’s the goal.

    What You’ll Receive in Your Review

    Your personalized Annual Real Estate Review includes:

    • A current market valuation
    • Comparable active, pending, and sold listings
    • A neighbourhood snapshot
    • A current equity estimate
    • Customized recommendations
    • A clear explanation 

    Current market valuation based on local Simcoe North & Muskoka data

    This gives you an accurate, up-to-date understanding of what your home would realistically sell for today, using real sales data from your specific community, not generic online estimates.

    Comparable active, pending, and sold listings

    You’ll see how your home stacks up against similar properties currently on the market, those sold conditionally, and the most recent firm sales, giving you a clear sense of buyer demand and pricing trends.

    A neighbourhood snapshot — average prices, demand trends, days on market

    This quick overview shows how your immediate area is performing, including how long homes are taking to sell and whether prices are trending up, down, or staying steady.

    A current equity estimate

    You’ll learn approximately how much equity you have available right now. This is one of the most important numbers for planning upgrades, refinancing, downsizing, or future financial decisions.

    Customized recommendations for improvement, timing, or holding strategy

    Based on your home and your goals, you’ll get tailored advice on what to improve, whether now is a good time to sell or wait, and how to maximize your long-term value.

    A clear explanation of what today’s market means for your home

    No jargon. No guesswork. Just a straightforward breakdown of how current market conditions impact your property specifically, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

    Ready to Get Set Up?

    Fill in this form: Annual Real Estate Request Form

    1. Fill in the form with your contact info.
    2. Choose, best days and time to connect.
    3. I will call you to gather additional information and learn about your goals.
    4. I will prepare your annual real estate review and we will schedule a time to go through it together.

    Your home is likely one of your biggest assets. An annual review keeps you informed, confident, and in control.

    Warm regards,

    Alisa Herriman
    Real Estate Agent | Simcoe North & Muskoka
    Sarah J. Stevens Real Estate Group
    📞 705-323-2814
    📧 alisaherriman@kw.com

  • 🏡 A First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Orillia: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

    🏡 A First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Orillia: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

    Buying your first home in Orillia or the broader Simcoe North area is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Mortgage rates, down payments, how to pick the right neighbourhood… there’s a lot to sort out. And if you’re like most of my first-time buyers, you probably have a hundred questions already.

    Take a breath — you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’ve helped many first-time home buyers in Orillia, Ramara, Tay, and nearby communities make confident decisions. And I’m here to help you do the same.

    But before we dive into the steps, there’s something important you should know:

    I was born and raised right here in Orillia. I know this city like the back of my hand. From school zones and neighbourhood vibes to hidden gems, waterfront pockets, and the best commute routes. Whether you’re looking to live in town, by the water, or in a quiet part of Simcoe County, I can help you find your perfect fit based on real-life experience, not just a map or MLS listing.

    Here’s what every first-time buyer in this market should know:

    1. Know What You Can Afford Before You Fall in Love with a House

    This is step one, always. Before you start browsing listings, connect with a mortgage broker and get pre-approved. This helps you understand:

    • What you qualify for (real numbers, not guesses)
    • Your potential mortgage payment
    • Current interest rates
    • Your down payment and closing cost needs

    It’s not just about what you can afford. It’s about what’s comfortable for your lifestyle. A good broker won’t just give you numbers; they’ll explain the “why” behind them.

    💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step — it puts you in a stronger position once you’re ready to make an offer.

    2. You Might Qualify for Down Payment Assistance

    If you’re buying in Simcoe County, and currently renting, you may be eligible for the Simcoe County Homeownership Program, which offers up to 10% down payment assistance for qualifying first-time buyers.

    This can make a big difference if saving the full down payment feels impossible.

    Not sure if you’d qualify? Let’s walk through it together. I can help you check.

    3. Pick Your Budget and Your Neighbourhood

    Here in Orillia and surrounding areas like Ramara and Tay, prices can change from street to street. Start by asking yourself a few key questions:

    • What’s my maximum monthly payment?
    • What neighbourhoods fit my lifestyle? (commute, schools, walkability, noise level)
    • Does this home work for at least 3–5 years?
    • Do I care more about being close to town, or having a larger property?

    Even if you’re not planning kids, knowing the school district matters. Homes in good districts tend to hold their value better.

    And because I’m from here, I can give you honest insight into each area, not just what’s online, but what it’s actually like to live there.

    4. Choose a Local Realtor Who Truly Supports First-Time Buyers

    Buying your first home isn’t just a business transaction. It’s emotional, it’s exciting, it’s a big leap and you deserve someone who gets that.

    Here’s what to look for in the right agent:

    • Local expertise in Simcoe North & Orillia
    • Experience working with first-time buyers
    • A step-by-step approach (not just sending listings)
    • Clear communication with no pressure
    • A network of trusted local professionals (lenders, lawyers, inspectors)

    As someone who grew up right here and is deeply invested in this community, my role goes beyond helping you buy a house. It’s helping you build a life in a place I genuinely love.

    5. Build a Realistic Wishlist

    It’s okay to want everything… but it’s smart to know what really matters to you. Break it down:

    Must-haves: bedrooms, parking, lot size, budget
    Nice-to-haves: upgrades, finished basement, extra bathrooms
    Deal-breakers: location issues, structural problems, zoning headaches

    And always leave a cushion for repairs or upgrades, even newer homes can surprise you.

    Final Thoughts

    Here’s what I want you to know: You don’t have to be perfect or know everything before you buy your first home. All you need is the right information, someone who listens to your goals, and a process that keeps you confident — not overwhelmed.

    That’s where I come in.

    Whether you’re just starting to explore or already thinking about next steps, I’m here to guide you, answer every question, and make this experience feel exciting, not stressful.

    Let’s get you home.

    Ready to Start Your First-Time Buyer Journey?

    📩 Send me a message anytime — I am here to help.
    📞 Call or text: 705-323-2814
    📧 Email: alisaherriman@kw.com

    Warmly,
    Alisa Herriman
    Realtor®, Simcoe North + Muskoka
    Born and raised in Orillia — helping first-time buyers move with clarity and confidence

  • Welcome to the Simcoe North Real Estate Insider

    Welcome to the Simcoe North Real Estate Insider

    Where confidence meets clarity in every move you make.

    Hi there. I’m so glad you’re here!

    If you’ve found your way to this page, chances are you’re thinking about a move. Maybe you’re dreaming about buying your first home, or you’re already a homeowner wondering what your property might be worth in today’s market. Wherever you are in your real estate journey. Welcome, this space was created for you.

    My passion for real estate started early. I bought my first home when I was just 21 years old, and that experience changed everything for me. I learned firsthand what it feels like to make one of the biggest decisions of your life. The excitement, the questions, and sometimes, the overwhelm. That’s when my love for real estate began, and it’s grown stronger ever since.

    Today, I have the privilege of helping people just like you buy their first home, upgrade to their next chapter, downsize with confidence, or make a move for whatever reason life brings your way. My approach is simple: you should never feel like you’re doing this alone.

    From our first conversation to the final signature, I’m there every step of the way to guide, educate, advocate, and make sure you have the clarity and confidence to make the best decision for you and your family.

    I also believe that real estate doesn’t end when you move in. That’s why I offer a complimentary Annual Real Estate Review — a personalized look at your home’s current market value and the factors that could impact your equity. Because your home isn’t just where life happens; it’s also one of your biggest investments, and it deserves the same attention you’d give any other part of your financial future.

    Through this blog, I’ll share market updates, tips for buyers and sellers, and real stories from right here in Simcoe North — Orillia, Ramara, Severn, Tay, Tiny, and Midland and Muskoka. My goal is to help you make smart, informed moves that support your goals and your lifestyle.

    I’m excited to share this space with you.
    If you ever have questions or want to chat about your next step, I’m just a message away.

    Your next move starts here and I’m here to help you every step of the way.

    Warmly,
    Alisa Herriman
    Real Estate Agent · Simcoe North + Muskoka
    📞 705-323-2814
    ✉️ alisaherriman@kw.com
    Exceptional client care. Proven results.