
The Savvy Investor’s Guide to Cottage Country
How to Refinance Your Home and Buy an Income-Generating Muskoka Cottage.
Why Cottage Country?
Muskoka isn’t just Ontario’s go-to weekend escape—it’s one of Canada’s most sought-after vacation rental markets. With high demand, limited inventory, and strong seasonal returns, it’s the perfect spot to turn your real estate goals into real-world income.

Step 1: Unlock the Equity in Your Home
Refinancing your current home lets you access the equity you’ve built over the years. At Benson Mortgages, we’ll work with you to secure our best available refinancing rate, helping you turn your mortgage into a strategic investment tool.
Benefits of refinancing:
- Access cash
- Lower your monthly payment
- Invest without selling your current home
Step 2: Invest in a Muskoka Cottage
Use your newly unlocked equity as a down payment on a lakeside cottage. Look for:
- Proximity to water and amenities
- Good rental potential (short or long-term)
- Year-round accessibility
Whether you’re eyeing Bala, Gravenhurst, or Port Carling—Muskoka properties are known for holding value and generating strong returns.
Step 3: Rent It Out, Grow Your Wealth
Once you own the property, list it on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo—or rent it seasonally. The result? You’re collecting rent while others enjoy the view.
Rental advantages:
- Generate passive income
- Cover your mortgage
- Build long-term equity
- Write off certain expenses at tax time (check with your accountant!)
Step 4: Repeat and Build
Your investment doesn’t end with one cottage. With the right strategy, your first rental can help fund your second, then your third. With Benson Mortgages by your side, you’re not just buying a vacation property—you’re building a portfolio.
Why Choose Benson Mortgages?
- Personalized mortgage strategies
- Access to the best refinancing and investment rates
- Decades of experience in real estate financing
- Support from pre-approval to closing