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Melanie Press, Impress Island Realty

Our Blog is a great way for us to interact with all our followers, whether you are past present or future clients, interested in the world of real estate, interested in what we do as real estate professionals and our boutique agency or just want to learn more about life here in Prince Edward Island.

If you have any questions or want to reach out to us regarding our business and communication let us know and we will connect!

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New property listed in Montague

I have listed a new property at Lot Queens Road - Rte 210 Road in Montague. See details here

Potential subdivision parcel, with the separate purchase of adjacent property, PID #128272, if available. Alternatively, this property may be developed into one, or more, generous, semi-urban exclusive estate lots. Presenting a rare opportunity to own 4.47 acres of pristine, undeveloped land, with immense potential for residential development. Partly cleared and partly treed, this large property offers the space, location, and versatility to make your home or housing complex vision a reality. The land is ideally positioned for a variety of potential uses, including single family homes, multi-family units, or a thoughtfully planned community development; subject to appropriate permissions and permits. With ample road frontage and utilities nearby (Buyer to verify), the groundwork is set for a seamless build. Located on the riverside of Queens Road, near Victoria Cross and only five minutes to Montague, on the way to Charlottetown. Whether you are a developer looking for your next project or a land investor seeking strong upside potential, this property presents a myriad of options. (id:2493)

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New property listed in Darnley

I have listed a new property at 67 Beairsto Drive in Darnley. See details here

Anchored in the heart of the protected Darnley Basin, this delightful 3 Bedroom 1.5 Bathroom cottage offers the perfect blend of coastal comfort and East Coast charm. With panoramic water views and deeded water access, this is your chance to own a true maritime escape on Prince Edward Island. Step inside to a bright and breezy interior where nautical touches meet classic cottage nostalgia. Whether you are relaxing in the sun filled living area, sharing meals on the porch or entertaining in the newly renovated kitchen, every moment here feels like a seaside retreat. Enjoy your morning coffee on the upstairs balcony outside of the spacious primary bedroom and soak in the lovely water view. This is where memories are made from the abundant lupins in the Spring to relaxing under the stars in the evenings. Situated between Summerside and Charlottetown, this is the spot to drop your anchor and this property is ready to welcome you aboard. All measurements are approximate and must be verified by purchaser. (id:2493)

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New property listed in New Haven

I have listed a new property at 64 Cameron Road in New Haven. See details here

When viewing this property on Realtor.ca please click the virtual link for a full video. Nestled on 1.4 acres, this custom-built modern farmhouse (2021) offers over 4,700 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space across three levels?ideal for a growing family. The open-concept main floor features a spacious living room with a bespoke fireplace wall and 8-foot doors to a covered porch. The chef?s kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, a large island, and Calacatta Gold countertops, complemented by a fully equipped working pantry. A mudroom with garage access leads to a stylish laundry room with custom finishes. The primary suite is a private retreat with a spa-like ensuite and custom dressing room. Upstairs offers three generous bedrooms (one with ensuite), a family bath, and a loft-style living area with study space. The fully finished lower level includes a family room, guest bedroom, full bath, office, movie room, and gym. Outside, enjoy a beautifully landscaped backyard with covered porch, stone patio and fire pit, saltwater inground pool, and pool house. A long paved driveway with illuminated pillars leads to a double garage, and generator hookup. Ideally located just 15 minutes to Charlottetown, 35 minutes to Summerside, and 5 minutes to Cornwall. Listing Broker is related to seller. (id:2493)

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New property listed in Charlottetown

I have listed a new property at 39 Churchill Avenue in Charlottetown. See details here

Welcome to this charming semi-detached home in the heart or downtown Charlottetown, on the outskirts of the highly sought-after Brighton neighbourhood. Built in 1905, the home is perfectly positioned within walking distance to downtown amenities, parks, entertainment, restaurants, and excellent schools, this home offers the ideal blend of character, convenience, and community. Spanning three levels, the home offers well-proportioned living space with plenty of flexibility. The main floor features a living room, formal dining room, kitchen, and a mudroom/laundry area, along with a full bathroom conveniently located off the mudroom. Upstairs you'll find three bedrooms and a second full bathroom, while the third-floor loft provides a spacious and versatile bonus area-perfect for a rec-room, family room, home office, studio, or potential additional bedroom. Outside, enjoy a welcoming covered front porch, a fenced backyard, and driveway parking for two vehicles. The property is located on a friendly street with great neighbours, adding to the charm and livability of this desirable downtown location. A fantastic opportunity to own a character home in one of Charlottetown's most walkable and desirable neighbourhoods. *The home is currently tenant-occupied, and 60+ days will be required for closing. *24 hours notice minimum is required for all showings. Listing agent must be present for all showings. *Property taxes are for non-resident. *All measurements are approximate and should be verified by the purchaser if deemed important. (id:2493)

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New property listed in Augustine Cove

I have listed a new property at Lot Patrick Drive in Augustine Cove. See details here

Explore a breathtaking waterfront retreat nestled on Augustine Cove's pristine shores in Prevost Cove, boasting 4.65 acres of prime coastal property. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach and during low tide indulge in clam digging for an authentic island feast, serenaded by the gentle lull of ocean waves. The property is situated minutes from the Confederation Bridge, 20 minutes to Summerside and 30 minutes to Charlottetown and the Charlottetown Airport. It is no secret that Islanders and visitors alike love the south shore with its warm, calm waters and quieter pace. Complete with underground electrical service and a well-maintained road ensuring year-round access, all elements are in place to fully embrace the unparalleled beauty of this remarkable piece of Prince Edward Island. *NO IRAC APPROVAL REQUIRED* *127 ft +/- of waterfront measured to the buffer zone. Measurements approximate and should be confirmed by the purchaser if deemed important*. (id:2493)

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The Biggest Mistake PEI Buyers & Sellers Are Making in 2026 (And No One’s Talking About It)

Here’s something I’m seeing all over Prince Edward Island right now — and almost no one is naming it:

People aren’t stuck because of prices or interest rates.
They’re stuck because they’re waiting for certainty that doesn’t exist.

The Market Isn’t “Crazy” Anymore — So Why Does It Feel Harder?

In the frenzy years, decisions were forced.
You either jumped in or got left behind.

In 2026, the PEI market is calmer. More balanced. More reasonable.

And strangely… that’s made things harder.

Buyers are thinking:

“What if prices dip?”
“What if rates change?”
“What if a better house comes along?”

Sellers are thinking:

“What if I list too early?”
“What if I wait and miss my window?”
“What if I regret selling?”

So people wait.
And wait.
And wait some more.

Here’s the Truth No One Puts in a Marketing Report

There is no perfect moment in PEI real estate — never has been.

There are only:

  • Homes that fit your life now

  • Moves that make sense for you

  • And timing that’s “good enough” — not perfect

The people who do best aren’t the ones who time the market.
They’re the ones who make clear decisions and adjust.

For Buyers: Waiting Isn’t Neutral

A lot of buyers believe waiting is the safe choice.

But waiting has a cost:

  • Rent continues

  • Life stays on hold

  • And the “ideal scenario” keeps shifting further away

In today’s PEI market, buyers have something rare:

  • Time to think

  • Room to negotiate

  • Fewer pressure tactics

The opportunity isn’t perfection — it’s clarity.

Ask yourself:

“If nothing changed for two years, would I be okay staying where I am?”

If the answer is no, that’s information worth listening to.

For Sellers: The Market Isn’t Punishing — It’s Honest

Homes aren’t failing to sell because the market is “bad.”
They’re sitting because buyers now have options.

That’s not a crisis — that’s a normal market.

The sellers who succeed in 2026 are the ones who:

  • Price realistically

  • Prepare properly

  • And understand that selling is no longer automatic — it’s intentional

When a home is positioned well, it still sells.
Quietly.
Cleanly.
Without drama.

The Real Question Isn’t “Is Now a Good Time?”

The better question is:

“Does this move support the life I want next?”

Markets change.
Interest rates fluctuate.
But life doesn’t pause politely while we wait for perfect conditions.

Final Thought

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure — that’s not a market problem.
It’s a clarity problem.

And clarity doesn’t come from headlines.
It comes from honest conversations, realistic numbers, and someone willing to say:

“Let’s look at your situation — not the noise.”

If that’s where you are, you’re not behind.
You’re just at the decision point.

Need help to work through that decsion process? Call me.

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New property listed in New Haven

I have listed a new property at 64 Cameron Road in New Haven. See details here

**Check out the video link** Perfectly suited for a large family or those seeking a multigenerational home, this custom-built modern farmhouse is nestled on 1.4 acres of peaceful surroundings and offers over 4,700 sq. ft. of luxury living space across three levels. Completed in 2021, the home seamlessly blends contemporary style with everyday functionality. The open-concept main floor showcases a spacious living room with a bespoke fireplace wall and 8-foot doors opening onto a covered back porch. The chef-inspired kitchen features custom cabinetry, a large island, and stunning Calacatta Gold stone countertops, complemented by an adjacent working pantry with additional custom cabinetry and quartz counters. A thoughtfully designed mudroom with ample storage and garage access adds everyday convenience, while a sliding barn door leads to the stylish laundry room with custom cabinetry and quartz countertops. The primary suite is a true sanctuary, offering a serene bedroom and an elegant ensuite with a double vanity, quartz counters, a 5-foot shower, and a luxurious soaking tub. A custom-designed dressing room provides generous storage. Upstairs, you?ll find three spacious bedrooms, one with an ensuite, along with a family bathroom and a loft-style living area. Two of the bedrooms feature walk-in closets, with a separate study area ideal for work or school. The fully finished lower level is perfectly designed for family or guests, featuring a large family room, guest bedroom, full bathroom, home office, movie room, and gym. Outdoors, the backyard is an entertainer?s paradise with a 260 sq. ft. covered porch, stone patio with fire pit, saltwater pool, pool house, and lush lawn. The home is accessed by a long driveway with illuminated pillars and includes a double garage, storage shed, and generator hookup. All of this is set in a convenient location, 10 minutes to Charlottetown, 35 minutes to Summerside, and just 5 minutes to Cornw (id:2493)

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New property listed in Augustine Cove

I have listed a new property at Lot Patrick Drive in Augustine Cove. See details here

Explore a breathtaking waterfront retreat nestled on Augustine Cove's pristine shores in Prevost Cove, boasting 4.65 acres of prime coastal property. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach and during low tide indulge in clam digging for an authentic island feast, serenaded by the gentle lull of ocean waves. The property is situated minutes from the Confederation Bridge, 20 minutes to Summerside and 30 minutes to Charlottetown and the Charlottetown Airport. It is no secret that Islanders and visitors alike love the south shore with its warm, calm waters and quieter pace. Complete with underground electrical service and a well-maintained road ensuring year-round access, all elements are in place to fully embrace the unparalleled beauty of this remarkable piece of Prince Edward Island. *Waterfront measurement -121.2 meters (397 ft). **IRAC Approval required for non-resident buyers. (id:2493)

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What is Buyers Agency?

Real estate salespersons and agents are mandated to communicate agency terms and disclose any existing agency relationships that may impact or influence the initiation of any business relationship with you. This should be one of the first conversations an agent has with a prospective new client – How we work for you!

In this blog post specifically, I will delve into the primary benefits of engaging into a BUYERS AGENCY and underscore the significance of carefully evaluating your representation when purchasing a house.

The 4 main types of agency relationship are:

  1. Buyer’s Agency: This arrangement involves the agent exclusively representing the buyer.
  2. Seller’s Agency: In this scenario, the agent’s sole focus is on representing the seller.
  3. Limited Dual Agency: This form of agency involves the agent representing both the buyer and the seller, navigating both sides of the transaction.
  4. Professional Service/Customer Status: This status applies in situations where there is no formal agency agreement in place, such as interactions with an agent during an open house.

Let us dive into reviewing what I consider to be the most significant advantages of Buyer Agency.

Firstly, a notable aspect that buyers frequently overlook…

 

No Cost

Engaging a selling agent during the home buying process might not result in a windfall of riches for you. Instead, it is the agent who reaps the rewards. While some buyers may believe this grants them exclusive access to advantageous deals, in reality, it resembles entrusting a fox to safeguard the henhouse.
Buyer’s agents serve as invaluable allies in your quest for a new home, coming to your aid without any additional financial burden. Their primary objective is to navigate the complexities of the real estate market, ensuring a seamless journey towards securing your ideal residence.


Inventory advantages

A buyer’s agent functions as your dedicated real estate expert, guiding you through a myriad of options to discover your ideal home. Leveraging their expertise, they meticulously sift through listings to curate a collection of properties that align with your budget and location preferences. By entrusting them with this task, you expedite your house-hunting process and receive a curated selection of premium choices tailored to your preferences.


The inside track and local knowledge

Teaming up with a buyer’s agent who’s in the know about your dream locale can spice up your house-hunting adventure! They’re like your personal tour guide to the hottest neighborhoods and top-notch service gurus. With their little black book of contacts, you’ll unlock a treasure trove of professionals, from inspectors to garden gurus, making your home-buying journey a breeze!


Experienced market analysis

Crafting a compelling offer entails delving deep into market insights, sales data, and the aspirations of sellers. A proficient buyer’s agent will leverage this valuable information to develop a strategic plan, enabling you to navigate the current dynamic market adeptly and formulate standout offers.


Articulating and facilitating the inclusion and deletion of crucial purchase conditions.

Steering through the maze of dropping conditions and adding must-haves to your deal is key! Your trusty agent will have your back, making sure your wish list and timeline get the VIP treatment.


Negotiation Skills

Empower your buyer’s agent to demonstrate their negotiation prowess as they engage in a strategic exchange with the seller’s agent. This dynamic interaction aims to secure the most favorable deal for you while ensuring your best interests are protected.


Fear of the Unknown?

When it comes to obtaining your dream home, buyer’s agents serve as adept real estate professionals, adept at navigating market intricacies and opportunities to help you surmount hurdles. Leveraging their specialized expertise, they can forecast costs, pinpoint distinctive neighborhood characteristics, and strategically outperform competitors, facilitating the attainment of your perfect home.

Someone working for you, and YOU ONLY!

Buyer’s agents are dedicated professionals focused on protecting and guiding clients through the complex realm of property transactions. Serving as diligent partners, they keep clients well-informed throughout the process and secure the best deals. Teaming up with a buyer’s agent means enlisting a real estate advocate who works to find your ideal home and ensure fair transactions. It’s like having a personal property expert solely dedicated to your interests. Therefore, when considering a significant investment like buying a home, rely on exclusive representation to realize your property dreams.

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Tree Top Haven – The End of an Era

TreeTop Haven is looking for a new owner

In an inspiring turn of events, Sheila Arsenualt, a dedicated entrepreneur and mother, has decided to sell her thriving tourism business, TreeTop Haven, to embark on a new life journey between Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.

Click the image below for the full listing real estate video

 
 
After years of hard work, building her company, from nothing but a wooded land parcel, Shelia’s difficult decision comes from a profound desire to maintain a strong connection with her daughter Dani while she attends school in Saskatchewan.
 
 
Sheila’s business, TreeTop Haven, which she founded as a single Mompreneur with a dream back in 2017, has been an inspiring business story. Providing a unique and relaxing accommodation experience for many islanders and people who visit the gentle isle has rewarded her with a thriving year round business enjoying repeat customers and support from near and far.
 
 
Despite her success and the close connection she has to TreeTop Haven, her daughters schooling and Sheila remaining present during these teenage years has to take a priority. The decision to sell Tree Top Haven was not taken lightly.
 
 
Sheila has spent months preparing the business for sale and continues to bring new ideas and new revenue streams to the TreeTop Haven, a business that she is so deeply connected to in the hope that her successor shares the same values and vision.
 
 
Sheila is now ready to embark on her adventure. With excitement she plans to divide her time between PEI and Saskatchewan, immersing herself in her daughters new educational journey, and enjoying the freedom to devote more time to that very important relationship. This life change is also a testament to the importance of family and the lengths a mother will go to ensure the best for her children.
 
 
Sheila’s story resonates with many who understand the sacrifices parents often make for their careers and the joy that comes from devoting themselves to their loved ones. Sheila carries with her the same belief that propelled TreeTop Haven into the business it is today. From a single moms dream into reality, that anything is possible with determination, and work and love.
 
 
 
So, like Sheila, it’s going to take a special someone to take TreeTop Haven into a new era. It’s a unique and awe inspiring place with a close family history an such a unique and natural environment for visitors to enjoy the peace and tranquility of our Gentle Isle.
 

**Please click here for full listing information**


TreeTop Haven is currently listed as a SHARE SALE for $1,399,900. ASSET SALE options are available by mutual agreement.


Please contact Melanie Press 902 394 7071 for more information and to book your showing appointment of this one of kind island business.

 
 

Melanie Press Realtor®, Broker and Owner of Impress Island Realty

902 394 7071 | melanie@impresspei.com | www.realtorinpei.com


♥ Follow Me on all my socials HERE and get in touch ♥

 

Photo Source: Realtors® own

This article is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently in contract with other members of the PEIREA. Using this article in full or part without permission is a violation of copyright laws. Copyright © 2024 Melanie Press Real Estate at Impress Island Realty

Impress Island Realty is a Licensed Real Estate Brokerage and Broker Member of the PEI Real Estate Association (PEIREA)

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The Lady Ball in Aid of Ovarian Cancer


This is the 3rd year Impress Island Realty will be sponsoring the Lady Ball, in support of the fundraising and awareneness efforts of Ovarian Cancer Canada.


Both Broker, Melanie Press in 2019 (pre-covid) and Realtor® Ashley Feschuk in 2023 have taken part on this event as role models, and this year, on May 30th, another Impress Lady, Mikki Armstrong will taking to the runway to strut her stuff!

This is such an important event which brings to gather women from all over Prince Edward Island.

We want to share with you Mikki’s bio and why this opportunity is so important for her.

If you would like to attend…WHICH YOU REALLY SHOULD, tickets can be purchased through the link logo at the end of this blo

 

“My name is Mikki Leigh-Anne Armstrong.  




I am a former paramedic, currently working at Impress Island Realty with an amazing group of women. I’m training to be a Real Estate Agent under the mentorship of my Broker. I also work as server, and am the lead singer in an Island band called, Crimson Clay.

Parenting two children has been one of the most challenging and terrifying but also rewarding, comedic, and awe inspiring choices that I have made.  They are my life’s best work, and I am very proud to be part of theirs.  Raeden (16) and Maggie (8). Everyday, I am grateful for the title of mother, and the plethora of lessons that I have ahead. I like to think that I am doing a decent job of not getting in the way of the wonderful humans they already are. There’s nothing that I value more than being their mom, and there’s nothing that has been more intimidating.  

My most valuable and useful quality has been my ability to adapt to and accept change. I have been able to overcome obstacles while staying in a growth mindset. By allowing the possibility of improvement, I also allow the added risk of challenges.  I try to be patient with myself when it doesn’t go perfectly.  I strongly believe in the power of showing compassion and kindness to ourselves and others, even in a difficult time or situation. I also like to think that I have a great sense of humour.  Sometimes it pays off for me… and sometimes I appreciate how tolerant others can be. 



I chose to participate in this event because I believe in taking the opportunities that are presented, and that something beautiful will often result. I strongly believe in celebrating and advocating for the female experience in its many different forms and when women come together incredible things happen.

Cancer hits close to home for so many humans, including myself.  I am grateful for the opportunity to challenge myself, and am humbled and honoured for the opportunity to be involved in such a beautiful event. 

I would tell my younger self a few important things. That I have worth. That my worth is innate and incomparable to anyone else. 

I would tell myself that boundaries are a thing, that they are quite important… and that I should use them. 

To follow my intuition about what feels good and right regardless of what that looks like… but the perm you will want during your senior year of high school is not a good idea… and you will regret looking at the pictures”.

Quote:

It all begins and ends in your mind.  What you give power to, has power over you, if you allow it
– Author unknown

 

FOR TICKETS CLICK HERE


Photo Source: Realtors® own and Ovarian Cancer Canada

This article is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently in contract with other members of the PEIREA. Using this article in full or part without permission is a violation of copyright laws. Copyright © 2024 Melanie Press Real Estate at Impress Island Realty

Impress Island Realty is a Licensed Real Estate Brokerage and Broker Member of the PEI Real Estate Association (PEIREA)

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How will the NAR Settlement Effect Canada?

The Canadian real estate sector has been attentively observing the legal dispute involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States, where a substantial $418 million settlement has been agreed, to be paid over a 4 year period.

Speculation abounds regarding the potential impact on Canada’s real estate industry.


Despite the buzz and uncertainty surrounding the US legal case, doubts persist. However, I am confident that any alterations will not significantly effect our southern counterparts. Realtors® are renowned for their adaptability, and are adept at navigating industry transformations.

In the US, the recent regulatory adjustments which have been made, particularly concern buyer agency and commissions.

Now, buyers wishing to view a property must engage in a buyer’s agency agreement, which involves compensating their designated agent. This payment, whether upfront or through alternative means, must remain confidential and not be disclosed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Buyers Agency is a crucial document for the safeguarding both buyers and Realtors®, so I’m certainly all in favour of this, however, this new rule diverges from industry transparency norms.

These modifications might bewilder buyers, particularly first time buyers, as they may now be obligated to remunerate their buyer’s agent in addition to other home buying expenses such as land transfer tax, closing costs, inspection and appraisal costs as well as the downpayment.

Also, such changes may potentially elevate the occurrences of ‘double-ended’ transactions, known as LIMITED DUAL AGENCY, in which listing agents represent both parties. This shift contradicts past industry efforts to restrict or eliminate dual agency, raising doubts about its actual advantages for consumers.


In Canada, provinces like British Columbia and Ontario have already taken measures to prevent or limit agents from practicing under limited dual agency, with other regions likely to follow suit.

While some buyers may not object to dual representation, it leaves them exposed without dedicated advocacy for their interests. This predicament forces buyers to decide between having personal representation or not, particularly if it is financially challenging. If Canada were to outlaw dual agency and follow the new US rules, buyers would have zero choice!

Although the NAR settlement may not directly impact Canadian real estate procedures, it does encourage introspection on the core values of our industry, which is always beneficial to ensure constant improvement.

With regards to commissions. Buyers agents are, for the most part FREE! Listing agents negotiate their listing commission offering a percentage to buyers agents. There is no rule or price fixing to what they can offer, offering as little as a $1 if they so choose and have discussed with their sellers.

Buyers agents, including myself have a price for the work they do according to how they calculate their value in the transaction, like all working people. If that price is higher than the advertised listing agents offering, we will discuss with our buyers and negotiate with them to cover the difference.


Canadian buyers and sellers are accustomed to negotiating commission rates, with agents having the flexibility to offer rebates or reduce commissions to facilitate transactions. Many times it’s the flexibility of agents which keep deals alive, especially in emotional charged situations.

In my opinion the only people to benefit from this suit are the lawyers who brought action against NAR, resulting in huge compensations for them.

As we observe developments in the US real estate market, it is crucial to remember the distinct characteristics of the Canadian real estate sector and uphold the transparency and integrity so many of us work by to ensure the best welfare of our clients.

♥ Follow Me on all my socials HERE and get in touch ♥


Photo Source: Realtors® own and Canva

This article is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently in contract with other members of the PEIREA. Using this article in full or part without permission is a violation of copyright laws. Copyright © 2024 Melanie Press Real Estate at Impress Island Realty

Impress Island Realty is a Licensed Real Estate Brokerage and Broker Member of the PEI Real Estate Association (PEIREA)


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The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are member’s of CREA. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by CREA and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.