In a world where dreams of tranquil living by the water beckon many retirees, the reality can sometimes be far from idyllic. Ronda Kemp, a former nurse, has found herself ensnared in a heartbreaking saga involving unfulfilled promises and lost finances related to a floating home, painting a stark picture of the risks inherent in pursuing one’s retirement dream.
A New Beginning
In 2022, Ronda, then 66, felt the pull of family and a desire for a serene retirement. After packing up her life in Alberta, she and her husband, Paul, relocated to Port Severn, Ontario, to care for Ronda’s aging mother. The couple envisioned starting a new chapter of their lives living on Georgian Bay, exploring the waterways from the comfort of a float home purchased from a local company called Live On The Bay (LOTB).
Ronda was captivated by the idea of float homes — trendy, sustainable living that promised no hydro or water bills. LOTB’s website showcased a range of models, all tantalizingly priced but seemingly attainable, with the cheapest home starting at $97,000. The allure of this lifestyle felt like a dream come true.
The Decision to Invest
After initial discussions with LOTB’s owners, Joe Nimens and Erin Morano, Ronda and Paul decided to take the plunge. They handed over a staggering $168,000 as a down payment for a custom wood-frame float home, convinced that their investment would lead to a new life filled with adventure and relaxation. They believed it was a small price to pay for a lifetime of memories spent on the water.
However, what followed was not the anticipated joy but a series of red flags that began to unravel their dreams.
A Cloud of Doubt
As the months went by, Ronda and Paul found themselves in a precarious situation. While awaiting their float home’s construction, they rented several cottages, watching their savings dwindle. Paul, a skilled builder, took a job with Nimens, hoping it would further secure their investment. Instead, he frequently faced delays in receiving his wages, adding to Ronda’s mounting concern.
By the halfway mark of their six-month timeline, Ronda noticed that work had barely begun on her float home, despite witnessing other homes being launched into the bay. Suspicion grew, particularly when Ronda observed Nimens selling the structure meant for her home to another buyer, dismissing her concerns when she confronted him.
The Illusion of Hope Shattered
Ronda’s realization that she was not alone in her plight came as a bittersweet comfort. She learned of at least ten other buyers who had also invested in float homes from LOTB, each facing similar delays and heartaches. As they began to unite, their collective frustration turned to despair, particularly after Ronda’s mother passed away, leaving her even more vulnerable.
In a final confrontation with the owners, Ronda faced the harsh truth when Nimens confidently asserted, “You’re never going to get your money back.” The dream of a peaceful retirement was quickly transforming into a nightmare.
Turning to the Law
After temporarily relocating back to Alberta, the couple felt the pangs of their dwindling finances as they rented yet another cabin in Port Severn. Determined to reclaim some semblance of hope, Ronda enlisted legal help to pursue a case against LOTB, all while worrying about their living situation as winter approached.
Despite Nimens’ assertion that all customers would eventually receive what they paid for, the reality gave cause for concern. Unfolding government actions surrounding floating accommodations added another layer of uncertainty, with increased regulation and bans on anchoring in public waterways looming on the horizon, threatening the very future of float homes in Ontario.
The Future of Floating Homes
The legal maneuvers faced by Ronda and Paul encapsulate a broader issue faced by many aspiring float home owners. As provincial and federal bodies tighten regulations on floating accommodations, individuals committed to this lifestyle may find themselves grappling not only with financial loss but with the very legality of their dreams.
In July 2023, the province implemented a ban on floating accommodations anchoring on provincial waterways. By early 2024, local governments proactively amended bylaws to further restrict this form of living—transforming what was once a promising venture into a legal quagmire.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale
Ronda Kemp’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of due diligence and the risks involved in novel investment opportunities, particularly in shifting landscapes like float homes. As she and Paul navigate their uncertain future, the shadows of their dream continue to loom large, a constant reminder of how quickly aspirations can turn into struggles.
As legislative landscapes shift and more individuals face similar prospects, it becomes vital for dreams of waterway living to be grounded in reality—carefully weighing both the potential for idyllic living and the risks of deception and loss. As Ronda awaits her day in court, her story stands as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, echoing the age-old adage: not all that glitters is gold.
