Pet-Friendly Greens: 10 Houseplants That Are Safe for Your Pets
For many homeowners, houseplants are more than just a touch of green; they bring life, beauty, and a sense of tranquility to our living spaces. But when you share your home with pets, choosing the right plants becomes crucial. Some can be toxic to our furry friends, posing risks that range from mild discomfort to severe health issues. Luckily, there’s no need to sacrifice greenery for safety.
At Alex Irish & Associates, we believe in creating harmonious living environments that cater to all family members – including the four-legged ones. As such, we’ve curated a list of ten pet-friendly houseplants that will keep your home lush and your pets safe.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants aren’t just visually appealing with their arching, striped leaves; they’re also one of the safest choices for households with pets. They thrive in a range of conditions and require minimal care, making them perfect for busy homeowners. Bonus: Spider plants also help purify the air!
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Known for their feathery fronds, Boston ferns add a touch of elegance to any room. These ferns are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, providing peace of mind while adding lush greenery to your space. Keep them in a cool, humid environment with indirect light to maintain their delicate beauty.
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm, also known as the Butterfly Palm, is a pet-safe tropical plant that brings a hint of the tropics into your home. Its graceful fronds create a dramatic, yet soft presence, perfect for larger spaces. Easy to care for, Areca Palms prefer bright, indirect light and regular watering.
4. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Calatheas are famous for their striking, patterned leaves that can elevate any interior design. These plants are not only visually stunning but also safe for pets. With a variety of species offering different leaf shapes and colors, Calatheas can add a vibrant touch to your home. They thrive in indirect light and high humidity.
5. African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)
If you’re looking to add some color to your indoor garden, African Violets are a delightful choice. Their small, vibrant blooms come in a variety of colors, and best of all, they’re non-toxic to pets. These compact plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require regular watering to keep their soil moist.
6. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The Parlor Palm is a versatile and resilient houseplant that can adapt to various lighting conditions. Its delicate, feathered leaves are safe for pets, making it an excellent choice for homes with curious cats or dogs. Parlor Palms prefer moderate watering and can tolerate lower light, making them easy to care for.
7. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Famed for their braided trunks and lush, green leaves, Money Trees are believed to bring good luck and prosperity. They are also perfectly safe for your pets. These trees thrive in bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Just be cautious with overwatering, as they don’t like soggy roots.
8. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The Friendship Plant, with its crinkled leaves and compact growth, is a charming addition to any home. It’s not only easy to care for but also completely safe for pets. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering to keep its soil evenly moist.
9. Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans)
For those who love a bit of floral flair, the Lipstick Plant offers vibrant, tubular flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. These plants are pet-friendly and thrive in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist, but be careful not to overwater, as they prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.
10. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
Peperomias come in various shapes and sizes, from trailing vines to upright plants. They are all non-toxic to pets, making them an excellent choice for homes with furry friends. These hardy plants enjoy bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light conditions. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Creating a Safe, Green Haven
Incorporating houseplants into your home doesn’t have to be a risk to your pets. With these pet-friendly options, you can enjoy the benefits of indoor greenery without worrying about your furry companions’ safety. At Alex Irish & Associates, we understand that creating a beautiful and safe home is about balancing aesthetics with practical choices.
Contact us today to explore our listings or to discuss your real estate needs in Oakville and beyond.
Paul Dillon
Sales Representative - Associate
Before getting into the wonderful world of real estate, Paul spent over 20 years in the corporate world successfully holding senior executive sales and marketing roles, with companies and brands. And during these years, he personally bought and sold multiple houses and condominiums. So, he knows what it’s like to be on both sides of the transaction.
He believes being a valued member of Regan Irish & Associates, coupled with his experience in marketing, sales and customer service significantly contributes to successfully serving his clients with their real estate needs.
Paul has lived, worked, and played in the GTA and surrounding areas for over 40 years. So, he is familiar with the various neighbourhoods and all that they offer. With each client, Paul prides himself in consistently providing maturity, professionalism, and dependability. Whether it’s helping to find a buyer for your current home, finding your new dream home or investing in real estate, it would be Paul’s pleasure to join you along the journey providing you with the expertise, support, and representation you will need.
Paul holds business degrees from York University and Columbia Business School. As a passionate animal welfare advocate, he proudly volunteers and sits on the Board of Directors for the Oakville and Milton Humane Society. Paul and his wife, Joanie (along with their rescue cat and dog) live in the Lorne Park area of Mississauga, ON.
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Rate Cut Ignites GTA Real Estate
Market Snapshot
The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) September 2025 Market Watch report shows early signs of a GTA rebound.
- 5,592 sales, up 8.5% YoY
- 19,260 new listings, +4% YoY
- Average price ≈ $1,059,377, down 4.7% YoY
- MLS® HPI ↓ 5.5% YoY
- Sales up MoM, listings down MoM → tighter market forming
These numbers point to a slow but steady market recovery. But what’s really fueling the conversation now is the Bank of Canada’s latest decision.
Bank of Canada’s October 2025 Interest Rate Decision
On October 29 2025, the Bank of Canada cut its policy rate by 25 basis points to 2.25% — the second consecutive cut and the lowest level since 2022.
The Bank signaled that this may mark the end of its easing cycle unless inflation weakens further.
Why it matters:
- Borrowing costs drop, boosting affordability for buyers.
- Confidence returns to sellers and investors after months of hesitation.
- Refinancing and investment opportunities reopen for savvy property owners.
In short, this move has re-energized housing markets across Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, and even Muskoka, where buyers and investors had been waiting for the right signal.
What Buyers Should Do Now
- Act strategically: With rates lower and listings up, this is a golden moment to negotiate.
- Get pre-approved quickly — competition could ramp up by early 2026.
- Focus on quality locations like south Oakville, Lorne Park (Mississauga), and core Burlington — where long-term equity growth outperforms.
- For investors: Explore Muskoka vacation homes or rental-ready units before rising demand drives prices back up.
What Sellers Should Know
- Sales are rising despite lower average prices — buyers are re-entering the market.
- Presentation and pricing are everything. Professional staging, premium photography, and data-backed pricing attract serious offers.
- Upsizing or downsizing? With lower mortgage costs, you can move equity efficiently while conditions remain favourable.
- Luxury sellers: Demand for turnkey listings is picking up again — especially in Oakville and Mississauga.
Local Insights
Mississauga & Oakville: Still among the GTA’s most resilient sub-markets. Expect balanced conditions through Q4 2025.
Burlington: Family buyers are back — affordability plus lifestyle make it a top performer.
Toronto: Core condos are stabilizing; investors are returning to well-located downtown units.
Muskoka: Cottage and short-term rental demand remains strong — ideal for diversification and passive-income seekers.
Investor Takeaway
With the policy rate at 2.25% and inflation under control, investment real estate looks compelling again. Expect:
- Better cash-flow margins with cheaper financing
- Gradual price stabilization through 2026
- Long-term upside as population growth and housing supply constraints persist
What To Do Next
- Buyers: Review your mortgage options now — lenders are updating rates.
- Sellers: Get a current market evaluation to plan your listing window.
- Investors: Compare cap rates and projected yields across GTA vs Muskoka.
Need a strategy tailored to your goals? Let’s make your next move your smartest yet.
About Regan Irish & Associates
We specialize in luxury homes, resale properties, and investment real estate across the GTA and Muskoka. Our team’s market insight and negotiation expertise deliver results — whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or investing.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville ON L6J 7W5
905-842-7677
reganirish.com
Call to Action
The market has shifted — don’t wait for the crowd.
Contact Regan Irish & Associates today for a personalized market plan that helps you buy, sell or invest with confidence in Mississauga, Oakville, Toronto, Burlington or Muskoka.
FALL MARKET KICKOFF: September 2025 Real Estate Market Update
As summer winds down, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market is shifting once again—this time with an important boost from the Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate cut. On September 17, 2025, the Bank lowered its policy interest rate to 2.5%, marking a significant move that is expected to reinvigorate buying activity across the region.
Market Snapshot: August 2025 (TRREB)
According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), August brought encouraging signs of stability:
- Sales: 6,232 transactions across the GTA, a 4.6% increase from August 2024.
- New Listings: 13,119, down slightly year-over-year, helping balance supply.
- Average Selling Price: $982,880, nearly flat compared to last year (+0.4%).
- Trend: Balanced conditions are giving both buyers and sellers room to maneuver, with the recent rate cut expected to stimulate fall demand.
City & Regional Highlights
Toronto 
Toronto continues to see steady demand for condos and townhomes, appealing to buyers looking for affordability in the core. Detached homes are moving more cautiously, but price stability suggests confidence returning to the market.
Mississauga 
Mississauga remains a buyer-friendly market, especially in the detached and semi-detached segments. With borrowing costs easing, families upsizing or relocating may find strong value in the fall.
Oakville 
Luxury demand in Oakville is regaining traction. The combination of limited inventory and lower financing costs positions this market for an active fall season, especially for executive homes and lakefront properties.
Burlington 
Burlington continues to attract buyers migrating west from Toronto. The city’s blend of affordability, lifestyle, and community feel has kept prices steady and competitive.
Muskoka 
Cottage country remains strong, with buyers eyeing investment properties and second homes. While activity softened slightly through the summer, the rate drop could encourage more buyers to act before year-end.
What This Means for Buyers & Sellers
With interest rates now at their lowest level in two years, affordability is improving across the GTA and Muskoka. Buyers who were waiting on the sidelines are expected to re-enter the market this fall, while sellers may benefit from increased competition for well-priced homes.
At Regan Irish & Associates, we specialize in helping clients navigate market shifts with confidence. Whether you’re buying a luxury home, selling a family property, or investing in Muskoka, our market insight and negotiation expertise ensure you get the best results.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com——
August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update | Regan Irish
The August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update reflects renewed momentum and affordability in Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, and Muskoka. Thanks to steady interest rates and appealing home prices, July proved surprisingly dynamic. Let’s dig into the numbers and what they mean for you.
Interest Rates Remain Stable — Affordability Fueling Activity
In July 2025, the Bank of Canada maintained its key rate at 2.75%, its third consecutive pause. With lower borrowing costs now more accessible, affordability is encouraging a wave of renewed buyer activity.
GTA Market Overview: Sales Surge, Prices Slightly Dip
- Home Sales: 6,100+ transactions region-wide, marking a 10.9% increase YoY and the strongest July since 2021.
- Month-over-Month: Seasonally adjusted sales rose 13% from June to approximately 5,744 units, the biggest monthly gain in nine months.
- New Listings: Up 5.7% YoY, totaling 17,613 new offers.
- Price Trends:
- The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark fell 5.4% YoY.
- The average GTA selling price dropped 5.5% YoY to around $1,051,719.
- Word on the street indicates the HPI drifted slightly lower—about $979,000, down 0.2% from June.
What It Adds Up To: Buyers are back in force—sales are outpacing new listings while prices softened, creating renewed market opportunities.
City Highlights
Toronto
A more balanced landscape—but some segments remain soft. Condos and detached homes see inventory rising; semis are steadier.
Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington & Muskoka
While TRREB doesn’t break down by city in these reports, regional trends suggest:
- Mississauga & Burlington: Strong rise in listings and dipping average prices give buyers leverage.
- Oakville: Stability in demand for luxury keeps discounts modest.
- Muskoka: Continued strong interest in sub-$2M waterfront properties should benefit from broader GTA momentum.
What This Means for You
- For Buyers:
Renewed affordability, rising inventory, and favorable interest rates make August a prime time to move. - For Sellers:
A more balanced market—strategic pricing and quick response will be key to success. - For Investors & Cottage Buyers:
Strong July sales in the GTA point to increasing investor interest; Muskoka remains a high-value lifestyle and investment destination.
Work With the GTA Real Estate Experts
Whether you’re planning to buy a Muskoka cottage, invest in a luxurious Oakville property, or explore options across Toronto, Mississauga, or Burlington, now is the time to act.
Regan Irish & Associates specializes in luxury, resale, and investment properties across the GTA and Muskoka. Our market insight and negotiation skills help you get the best results—whether buying, selling, or investing.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com
Let’s make today’s market your opportunity—contact us today!