February was pretty busy on our end, even though the overall number of sales was down. In total, 22 properties sold, compared to 34 last February.

That said, our busyness doesn’t mean it’s a good time to casually test the market. The homes that are selling right now are because the sellers have made a clear decision that it’s time to move.

My sense heading into the spring market is that it will likely stay active for that same reason. The sellers who are stepping forward right now aren’t just curious. They’ve decided it’s time for their next move and they’re approaching the process with a plan.

Of the 22 properties that sold, only three sold over $700,000, and just one of those sales was over $1 million, coming in at $1,250,000. Because the majority of the activity was in the lower price ranges, the average sale price for February came in at just over $566,000. 

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how February 2026 shaped up compared to February 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus February 2025:

Size, Depth, Boating Rules, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Lake Eugenia is the largest inland lake in Grey County and one of the most recognizable lakes in Grey Highlands. Set along the Niagara Escarpment in the Beaver Valley, it’s a four-season lake that attracts a mix of full-time residents, recreational boaters, anglers, and families who value space, scenery, and accessibility.

This post focuses on clear, factual information about Lake Eugenia to help you understand what makes it unique.

Some Quick Facts:

Lake type:  Man-made reservoir
Location:  Grey Highlands, Grey County, Ontario
Waterway:  Beaver River

Surface area: Approximately 1,787 acres
Shoreline length: Approximately 14.9 miles

Lake Eugenia is the largest inland body of water in the county, which gives it a noticeably more open feel compared to smaller lakes in the area.

Lake Depth

Lake Eugenia is generally shallow, with deeper water near the dam.

• Average depth: Approximately 4.6 feet

• Maximum depth: Approximately 40 feet

This depth profile contributes to warmer water temperatures in summer and supports a wide range of recreational use.

How Lake Eugenia Was Created

Lake Eugenia is not a natural lake.

It was created in the early 1900s when the Beaver River was dammed as part of a hydroelectric power project. Construction began around 1912, and by 1915 the surrounding land had flooded, forming the lake as it exists today.

The project reshaped the Beaver Valley and transformed former farmland into a large reservoir. The dam and water system were later rebuilt in the 1960s, resulting in minor changes to water levels.

Fish Species in Lake Eugenia

Lake Eugenia supports a variety of warm-water and cold-water fish species and is a popular recreational fishing destination.

Commonly found species include:

• Smallmouth bass

• Largemouth bass

• Yellow perch

• Rainbow trout (stocked)

• Rock bass

• Sunfish

• Bullhead catfish

Fishing conditions vary by season, with bass fishing popular in summer and trout activity often stronger during cooler periods.

Boating on Lake Eugenia

Motorized boating: Permitted

Lake Eugenia supports a wide range of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, personal watercraft, kayaks, and canoes.

There is no single lake-wide horsepower limit posted, but boaters are expected to follow provincial boating regulations, posted signage, and no-wake zones, particularly near shorelines and swimming areas.

Public Access, Boat Launch & Beach

Lake Eugenia has one primary public access point, located in the community of Eugenia.

This public access includes:

• A municipal boat launch

• A designated swimming beach

• Parking

• Picnic space

Most of the remaining shoreline around Lake Eugenia is privately owned.

Public Access Map

You can view the public beach and boat launch here:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/6HogEEmePw6cH7gr7 

What Lake Eugenia Is Known For

Lake Eugenia is best known for:

• Being the largest inland lake in Grey County

• A balance of active boating and quieter shoreline areas

• Recreational fishing for bass, perch, and trout

• Scenic views connected to the Beaver Valley and Niagara Escarpment

• Proximity to hiking, including nearby Bruce Trail access points

Its size gives it a more open, expansive feel than many inland lakes, while still maintaining a strong sense of community.

A Local Perspective

Lake Eugenia tends to appeal to people who want space, views, and the ability to enjoy the lake without any boating restrictions across all four seasons. It offers a mix of seasonal cottages and year-round homes, with nearby towns providing everyday services without feeling far removed from nature.

It’s a lake people choose when they want room to breathe, on and off the water.

Size, Depth, Boating Suitability, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Wilcox Lake is a natural inland lake located in Grey Highlands, Ontario. It offers a quieter waterfront setting compared to some of the region’s larger lakes and is known for its connection to surrounding trail systems and natural landscape.

Some Quick Facts:

Waterbody type: Natural inland lake
Location: Grey Highlands, Grey County, Ontario

Surface area: Approximately 65 acres based on Grey County GIS mapping
Shoreline: Primarily wooded and residential

At roughly 65 acres, Wilcox Lake is large enough to feel like a true lake while maintaining a calm, low traffic atmosphere.

Depth

Detailed bathymetric surveys are not widely published, but Wilcox Lake is generally described as:

• Shallow to moderate in overall depth

• Without a significant deep water basin

  This depth profile supports calm lake conditions and recreational fishing rather than high speed boating.

Fish Species in Wilcox Lake

Wilcox Lake supports freshwater species typical of inland lakes in Grey Highlands.

Commonly targeted fish include:

• Largemouth bass

• Smallmouth bass

• Yellow perch

• Sunfish species

Vegetation and shoreline structure provide suitable habitat for recreational fishing.

Boating and Watercraft

Wilcox Lake is best suited to non motorized and low impact boating.

Typical uses include:

• Kayaks

• Canoes

• Paddleboards

• Small fishing boats

Because of its size and character, large high speed motorized boating is not typical on this lake.

Public Access

Wilcox Lake does have limited public access.

There is a small roadside access point, and the former rail trail runs alongside portions of the lake, providing seasonal access by:

• Hiking

• ATV where permitted

• Snowmobiling in winter

Most of the remaining shoreline around Wilcox Lake is privately owned.

For general location reference only, Wilcox Lake can be viewed here:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/oNF1FXAxhGHyF7Xc9

What Wilcox Lake Is Known For

• A quieter, low traffic lake environment

• Recreational fishing

• Direct connection to the rail trail system

• Seasonal trail access

• Natural surroundings with modest development

It is not a high activity boating lake, and that quieter character is part of its appeal.

A Local Perspective

Wilcox Lake appeals to people who value simplicity and access to nature. The connection to the rail trail gives it a different feel than many inland lakes. You are not just near the water. You are connected to a broader recreational corridor.

For those looking for a calm inland lake in Grey Highlands with nearby trail access, Wilcox Lake offers a balanced and understated setting.

Size, Depth, Boating Suitability, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Flesherton Community Pond is a small but well-loved body of water located right in the village of Flesherton in Grey Highlands. Unlike larger inland lakes, this pond functions as a true community space. It’s easy to access, easy to enjoy, and plays an important role in day-to-day life for locals.

This post focuses on clear, factual information about Flesherton Community Pond to help you understand what makes it unique.

Some Quick Facts:

Waterbody type: Pond / small inland lake
Location: Flesherton, Grey Highlands, Grey County, Ontario

Surface area: Approximately 60–70 acres
Shoreline: Compact and easily walkable

Flesherton Community Pond is significantly smaller than most lakes in Grey County, which gives it a more intimate and accessible feel.

Pond Depth

Flesherton Community Pond is shallow throughout most of its basin.

• Average depth: Approximately 3–6 feet

• Maximum depth: Estimated to be under 15 feet

Its shallow depth contributes to calm water conditions and makes it well suited for casual recreation rather than high-speed boating.

How Flesherton Community Pond Was Formed

Flesherton Community Pond developed as part of the local watershed and has long been integrated into the village landscape. Over time, the shoreline and surrounding parkland were shaped to support recreation, community use, and water management.

Rather than functioning as a remote natural lake, the pond has evolved alongside the growth of Flesherton itself and is closely tied to the village’s layout and green space.

Fish Species in Flesherton Pond

Flesherton Community Pond supports fish species commonly found in smaller inland ponds and slow-moving waters.

Species typically found include:

• Largemouth bass

• Pumpkinseed sunfish

• Bluegill

• Yellow perch

• Creek chub

Fishing here is generally casual and shore-based, making it a popular spot for beginners and families.

Boating and Watercraft

Due to its size and depth, Flesherton Community Pond is best suited to non-motorized or low-impact watercraft.

Common uses include:

• Canoes

• Kayaks

• Paddleboards

• Small fishing boats with electric trolling motors

Large motorized boats are not practical on the pond, and the overall atmosphere is quiet and relaxed.

Public Access, Beach & Park Area

One of Flesherton Community Pond’s defining features is how accessible it is.

The pond is surrounded by public parkland and includes a well-used beach area, making it a central gathering place in the community.

Public Access Map

You can view the main public access area here:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/BYecgpMdF8GtboWv9

Public amenities include:

• A designated swimming area

• Shoreline fishing access

• Nearby parking

• Picnic space

Residential properties sit near parts of the shoreline, but public space plays a major role in how the pond is enjoyed.

What Flesherton Community Pond Is Known For

Flesherton Pond is best known for:

• Being located directly in town

• Easy access for families and children

• Calm water ideal for paddling

• Shoreline fishing and casual recreation

• Community events and everyday use

It’s not a destination lake for power boating or large cottages, and that’s exactly the point. The pond works because it’s simple, accessible, and woven into daily life.

A Local Perspective

Flesherton Community Pond appeals to people who value convenience and connection. It’s the kind of place where you can stop by after dinner, take a short walk by the water, or let kids swim without planning a full lake day.

It doesn’t try to be anything more than what it is, a calm, welcoming piece of waterfront that belongs to the community.

From a numbers standpoint, January was very much in line with last year, with 21 sales this January compared to 20 in January 2025. Even with challenging weather, activity held steady.

What feels different this year is the overall tone of the market. Last January was consistent, though slightly behind the previous year, and momentum faded as uncertainty crept in. This year feels more measured and stable. Buyers are showing up, but they’re cautious and very value focused.

That’s where pricing comes in. Many of the sales we’re seeing right now are happening because of aggressive, realistic pricing, not simply because the market is more active. Price adjustments continue to play a key role in triggering showings and offers, and there is still uncertainty around where pricing ultimately settles.

Takeaway for homeowners: buyers are active, but pricing is doing the heavy lifting. Homes that meet today’s market are the ones moving, while overpricing continues to lead to longer days and adjustments.

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how January 2026 shaped up compared to January 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus January 2025: