Lorenda Simms : Blog : Latest Blog Posts

How to Decorate a Living Room

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:00:50 GMT

Whether your style is traditional or modern, relaxed or formal, bold or subdued, your living room should be a place where you can feel comfortable, let down your guard and spend quality time with friends, family or just yourself. There’s an art to decorating a room that looks great and works well for you. So before you dive into a living room redesign with your pro, arm yourself with a few designer tips and tricks. Here are some of my favorites.

1. Mix Light and Dark
When a living room is all white and bright, it can feel too “clean” and unapproachable. When it’s all dark, it can feel like a cave. But mixing dark and light colors creates a dynamic look that has depth and balance. The design of any space benefits from the inclusion of at least a little white and a little black.

2. Contrast Your Neutrals
Beyond including some white and some black, decorating a living room with a variety of contrasting neutrals goes a long way toward making it feel rich and welcoming. In this example, the white walls and ceiling, stone fireplace, wood shelving and beams, dark sofa, leather side chairs, and light and dark accessories contrast with one another, which highlights their different finishes and undertones. This makes the palette feel rich even before other key elements, such as pattern and texture, are added.

3. Play With Texture
Texture is easy to overlook when decorating a living room, especially since we don’t see it so much as touch it. But it’s important for making a living room feel cozy, and that goes for plush textures that appeal to the touch and harder textures that add contrast. Include leather, cotton, wool, metal, stone, glass, plant life and as many other textures as you can.

Pillows are a great place to start, especially if you’re decorating a living room on a budget. Look to other accessories and furnishings to add new materials to the palette, even in small doses.

4. Work in Some Wood
We can’t talk about texture without talking about wood, one of the top materials for bringing a sense of warmth to a living room.

There are so many ways to add wood, any of which will make a space feel a bit more inviting. Consider wall paneling, side tables, movable stools, picture frames, sofa legs and carved pieces of art as just a few of the many options.

5. Mix Up Your Upholstery
Sure, most furniture stores give you the option of purchasing an entire living room set in matching upholstery, but that doesn’t mean you should do it. In a formal seating area, matching upholstery can give a sense of maturity and order, but if you want a living room to feel cozy and welcoming, mix and match your upholstered pieces to give the design a bit more personality.

One of the safest ways to do this is to mix leather chairs with a fabric sofa or vice versa, so the materials contrast in an obviously intentional way. It gives the living room design some diversity, which can also give members of the family different options to suit their seating preferences.

Read more here: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-decorate-a-living-room-stsetivw-vs~105196187

5 Questions to Ask a Condo Board Before Buying

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:30:30 GMT

Doing your due diligence before buying a condo is of the utmost importance. Potential questions include:

What are the service terms for board members?
Does the condo board have a reserve fund and how much money is in it?
Does the condo have any upcoming major repairs?
Are water, electricity or heating included?
Is maintenance of common areas (garbage pickup, snow removal, etc.) covered by condo fees?

They’re all questions you’ll want answers to before you decide to put in an offer.

Whether you live in a big city full of condos like Toronto, Ontario, or a smaller town like Canmore, Alberta, condos are often seen as a first step in homeownership for young adults. They’re also popular among seniors looking for low-maintenance spaces, and those who want the perks of amenities with hassle-free living.

So, what should you be asking before purchasing a condo?

1. Can I see the status certificate?
Jesse Melo, a REALTOR® in Hamilton, and salesperson with the Golfi Team – ReMax Escarpment, says reviewing the status certificate before finalizing the purchase of a condo is a must.

It offers a financial and structural snapshot of the building and the corporation. The certificate can tell you if the building has a healthy reserve fund for maintenance and repairs, as well as essential information regarding whether the current owners owe on condo fees or how much the condo fees have risen year over year. Early in the purchasing process, be sure to get your hands on this essential document and have it reviewed by your REALTOR® and a lawyer.

2. Have there been any special assessments on the building?
A special assessment is when a condo corporation cannot pay for a major unexpected repair or expense from the existing reserve fund. Each unit is then expected to pay an extra charge on top of monthly maintenance fees in order to complete the repair or cover the costs.

“When reviewing the condo status certificate, it’s important to make sure the corporation’s reserve fund is at a stable and healthy level,” Melo says. “This could indicate whether the likelihood of a special assessment in the future is low.”

Be on the lookout for any past special assessments and ask the board of directors or property management about any long-term future repairs or maintenance. Be sure to check on the status of snow maintenance, paving, landscaping, plumbing, wiring, pest control, and insurance. Before making a purchase, you want to make sure your condo is in sound structural and financial shape.

3. What is your policy on pets?
Melo says pets are a big topic for condo boards. Condos can have bylaws and policies that govern what kind, the number, and size of pets you can have in your home. Some condos even have bylaws requiring your pet to be approved by the board of directors. If you have a pet, either prior to putting in or before finalizing an offer, it might be worth submitting a pet application to the condo board for approval. Also, keep in mind your furry pal may not be allowed in common areas around your building like the lawn or courtyard, so take a look for nearby public parks if these aren’t options. Lastly, always get your pet approval in writing in case bylaws change down the road.

Check the amenities while touring a condo property

4. What amenities are available?
Go and check out the amenities during your condo showing! Visit the gym, sauna, outdoor area, party room, and pool if your building is equipped with any or all of these. Taking a look around will help you determine if management has been staying on top of maintenance.

“The more amenities a building has, the higher the reserve fund should be,” Melo suggests. This is so they can cover the cost of maintaining them all. Moreover, “the more amenities your condo has, the higher your condo fees could be, so you really have to look at what you will be paying for and consider if it is worth it”.

Ask about scheduled maintenance, too. For example, ask how frequently the pool is closed for cleaning or seasonally. You should also ask about who can use the amenities (i.e. are guests able to use the gym?). It’s all well and good for your condo building to have a pool, but if it’s only available a few months of the year, it may not be as great a benefit as you think.

5. Can you tell me about the board of directors?
A condo board of directors is responsible for the building’s physical and financial well-being. They make all of the major decisions and uphold the condo’s by-laws and rules. A board is usually elected by owners, and can be made up of owners and, in some cases, tenants. Ask your board for a copy of the condo bylaws, as well as if there are any grandfather clauses in place. It also wouldn’t hurt to speak with the chair or sit in on a board meeting (if possible) to get a feel for the condo corporation’s culture.

Owning a condo is different from owning a single-family or townhome, as there are a lot more hands involved with the daily maintenance and running of the building. However, they can be a great investment, are typically closer to city centres, and can offer great amenities.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/5-questions-to-ask-a-condo-board-before-buying/28711/1363

7 Ways to Make Your Living Room Sociable

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:00:49 GMT

Living rooms can sometimes be overlooked now that so much of our at-home socializing takes place around a table in an open-plan kitchen space, but nothing beats being able to sit comfortably with friends and family, to talk, enjoy a drink or watch a movie.

Comfort is key to creating a relaxed, sociable living space, so concentrate on getting the style and position of the seating right, then build up from there, adding fun touches, handy side tables and just the right lighting.

1. Provide Different Types of Seating
If sociable means entertaining friends and family of all ages, work in more than one seating type. While squishy sofas may suit those who want to kick off their shoes and snuggle down, older visitors may prefer the support of an upright chair. Children may prefer floor cushions or stools.

2. Light a Fire
Humans have gathered around fires for millennia, to eat, talk, warm up and feel safe. Lighting one in your living room produces the same sense of sociability and comfort.

3. Face Each Other
Sofas that face each other, rather than a TV, promote conversation. Make sure they’re positioned close enough together that you and your guest aren’t shouting at each other across the divide.

Just because you’re squeezing in two sofas doesn’t mean you need to scrimp on size. In this room, two sizable couches are positioned opposite each other with a pair of armchairs completing the seating arrangement.

4. Provide Several Surfaces
Tables on which you can pop a mug, glass or bowl of snacks are essential to a sociable living space.

5. Consider a Corner Sofa
Nothing says sociable like a corner couch. This flexible, space-efficient form of seating works particularly well for big families with modest living rooms. It provides a large expanse of comfy seating, which encourages teens to lounge and toddlers to get cozy.

To make this type of seating even more functional, consider a coffee table that can doubles as a footstool. The extra surface will provide even more opportunities for everyone to stretch out.

6. Get the Lighting Right
A sociable living room needs lighting that creates a warm atmosphere, but without being too dim. You want to be able to see your guests, after all. Weave in a flexible mix of lamps and ceiling lights to create a soft, layered look.

7. Install Sliding Doors
In this home, Nick Taylor of IMBY3 Architecture & Design designed sliding barn doors between the kitchen and living space. When closed, the living room feels cozy and intimate.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/7-ways-to-make-your-living-room-sociable-stsetivw-vs~158150633

The Best Winterization Upgrades Every Canadian Home Needs

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Canadian winters demand more from our homes than almost any other season. Without the right winterization tools, cold weather and harsh freeze-thaw cycles can quickly lead to unexpected repairs and higher energy bills.

Whether you own a house or rent, the right winter upgrades can help you stay comfy, lower heating costs and keep your home safe during months of snow, ice and freezing temperatures. If you’re looking for smart ways to keep warm, minimize drafts and improve your winter comfort, this comparison guide will help you choose the best options for your home.

Why winterization matters in Canada

Prepping your home to endure cold winds, heat loss through windows, heavy snowfalls and dry indoor air are common challenges Canadian homeowners face. As soon as you crank up the thermostat, indoor air tends to get dry (without humidifiers, of course), but what’s worse is if you have uninsulated areas or drafty doors and you’re watching your heat (and hard-earned money!) slip through the cracks.

Outdoor surfaces can also become slippery or difficult to manage when its snowfall warning after snowfall warning. Without preparing, these challenges can lead to higher energy use, less comfortable living spaces and safety concerns. Taking steps to winterize your home helps reduce heat loss, supports energy efficiency and creates a more comfortable and secure environment throughout the season.

Let’s look at a few easy ways how.

Window insulation film: how to insulate windows in cold weather

Windows are often one of the main places where heat escapes during the winter months, particularly in older homes or rental units. Even well-sealed windows can let in small drafts once temperatures drop.

Adding a layer of window insulation film creates a clear barrier that helps limit heat loss and keeps indoor spaces more comfortable, all while using less energy. It’s a simple, affordable upgrade that can make a noticeable difference through the colder season.

Heated snow melting mats: how to keep your walkway ice-free all winter

Driveways and walkways can quickly become slick and difficult to navigate once snow and ice start to build up. Keeping these areas clear is important for both safety and property maintenance, especially during frequent storms. For homeowners who want a long-term option, snow melting mats help prevent ice from forming in the first place, which reduces the need for regular shoveling or the use of salt that can wear down concrete in certain areas. These mats work well on steps, walkways and smaller driveways.

Why smart thermostats are worth the upgrade

Smart thermostats are a popular home upgrade and for good reason. They make it easier to stay comfortable while helping reduce energy use. Many Canadian homes still rely on basic thermostats, so switching to a smart model can make a noticeable difference, especially during the winter months.

Smart thermostats learn your daily routine and automatically adjust the temperature based on when you’re home, away or asleep. That means less wasted heat and, in many cases, lower heating bills. You stay cozy when you need to, without constantly fiddling with the settings.

They’re also simple to use. You can control the temperature from your phone, keep an eye on energy usage and even use remote sensors to help balance heating from room to room. Some models can manage humidity or send alerts if your HVAC system needs attention. Altogether, it’s a practical upgrade for homeowners and renters looking for better control, improved comfort and potential savings throughout the colder season.

Snow shovels, ice chippers and snow blowers: why these are essential

Snow can pile up fast during a Canadian winter, and keeping walkways and driveways clear is key to having a welcoming home. While heated mats can help with small areas like steps or entryways, larger spaces usually call for reliable snow-removal tools.

A sturdy shovel is a go-to for everyday clearing, especially after lighter snowfall. When ice builds up or snow becomes packed down after freeze-thaw cycles, an ice chipper can help break it up. For bigger jobs, like long driveways or wide walkways, a snow blower can make the work faster and far less physically demanding.

Why Canadian homes need humidifiers

Indoor air tends to get very dry during the winter months. Cold outdoor air holds less moisture to begin with, and once it’s heated, even more humidity is lost. The result can be dry skin, static electricity, and even damage to wood floors or furniture. A humidifier helps bring moisture back into the air, making your home feel more comfortable while also helping protect your space.

Making winter more comfortable and efficient

Getting your home ready for winter is one of the simplest ways to stay comfortable while keeping energy costs in check. The upgrades highlighted in this guide, from window insulation film and heated driveway mats to smart thermostats, snow removal tools and humidifiers, are well suited to Canadian winters.

Together, they help keep your home warmer, improve safety around your property, and make day-to-day winter living a little easier. Whether you rent or own, these winter-ready upgrades can help you enjoy a more comfortable and efficient season ahead.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/the-best-winterization-upgrades-every-canadian-home-needs/40246/1367

Bank of Canada Holds Rate at 2.25%: What This Means for Mortgages in 2026

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

If you’re looking for further rate drops from the Bank of Canada before jumping into the real estate market, maybe don’t hold your breath.

On Dec. 10, the Bank of Canada decided to keep its policy interest rate at 2.25%, following two consecutive 25 basis point cuts made in September and October.

The consensus among Canadian economists is that this will more or less be around the rate we see throughout 2026, barring any exceptional political or economic events.

For anyone thinking of buying a home in the new year, or for anyone already carrying a mortgage, this outlook actually signals a moment of relative stability in borrowing costs.

We spoke to Ryan Biln, Economist at the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), to get a better understanding as to what the Bank’s decision means for Canadian home buyers, sellers and homeowners.

What should prospective home buyers keep in mind if they are looking to buy in 2026?

The short answer is this: interest rates probably won’t stray too far from where things are now. Biln suggests those looking to buy a home next year should focus less on waiting for further rate drops and more on their local market conditions and affordability levels.

For example, if you live in a market with properties sitting on the market longer than normal, you may start to see more bargains.

“Slower activity and higher inventory in some markets and for some property types may give buyers more time and choice compared to certain periods over the last decade,” Biln says.

What will Canadian real estate markets look like in 2026?

Looking at a national level, CREA is forecasting 509,479 home sales in 2026—up 7.7% compared to this year—hitting a level not seen 2021. That amount is still slightly under the 10-year average, however.

The national average home price is forecast to increase by 3.2% from 2025 to $698,622 in 2026. This would mark the sixth straight year where the national average home price has hovered around the $700,000 range.

“Demand will remain strong, driven primarily by Canada’s largest age cohort, those in their late 20s and in their 30s, who continue to enter the housing market and are more willing to relocate from within provinces and between provinces to secure housing,” Biln says.

What if your mortgage is up for renewal in 2026?

The Bank of Canada reports more than 60% of all outstanding mortgages are expected to renew in 2025 and 2026 as many Canadians took advantage of the ultra-low rates being offered back then when we were recovering from pandemic shutdowns.

Those renewals will come with payment increases, as most borrowers tended to opt for five-year fixed mortgages.

“These overall numbers, however, hide large differences between borrowers and between types of products,” the Bank states. “For instance, mortgage holders with a five-year, fixed rate contract renewing in 2025 or 2026 could face an average payment increase of around 15% to 20% compared with their payment in December 2024. Those with variable rates and variable payments could see an average payment decline of around 5% to 7%.”

The classic question: fixed rate mortgage or variable rate mortgage?

Right now, you may qualify for a five-year fixed rate for as low as 3.79%.

Fixed rates have edged slightly higher in recent weeks, and broader economic factors could play a role in where they go next.

Over the past 20 years, variable rates have outperformed fixed rates, except during the early pandemic days.

“Variable rates are now lower than the average five-year fixed,” Biln says. “Looking ahead, it’s hard to tell which would be the better option, but prospective home buyers should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of each mortgage type and term, and choose the best option for their financial situation and risk profile.”

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/bank-of-canada-holds-rate-at-225-what-this-means-for-mortgages-in-2026/40224/1362

6 Classy Ways to Decorate for the Holidays on a Budget

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

When the weather changes from a crisp fall breeze to a freezing winter chill, there’s something about decorating for the holiday season that brings a feeling of warmth and coziness to your home. To help you deck the halls without going over budget, we’re sharing some tips about how to save on holiday décor while keeping it classy. By using what you have, investing in long-lasting pieces, checking out thrift stores and doing a few DIY projects, you can make your home feel merry and bright on any budget.

1. Skip the red and green for a more modern look
Vibrant red and emerald green may look good on Santa Claus, but when it comes to decorating your home, a seasonal but more subdued colour scheme can save you money while offering a modern holiday feel. To achieve a chic holiday look without the tinsel, consider investing in pieces that will last all season long instead of spending on holiday décor items you’ll want to hide away after December. Items like a plaid throw blanket, pillows in fall hues or a centrepiece with seasonal fruit like tangerines will bring a classic holiday warmth to your home from fall to spring.

2. Score unique finds and reduce waste by shopping at thrift stores
Not only is shopping at thrift stores for holiday décor affordable, it’s also more environmentally friendly.. From unique serving trays for holiday cookies to wooden crates for displaying gifts or vintage glassware to decorate your table, thrift and antique stores offer plenty of inspiration for holiday décor on any budget. To ensure you find pieces that’ll work in your home, think about items that might have more than one purpose like a tablecloth that could be used as a Christmas tree skirt or a vintage tin bucket that could be used for a seasonal floral arrangement on your front porch.

3. Wrap gifts early and put them on display
Avoiding last-minute holiday shopping pays off in more ways than one. Not only will you miss out on long lines and delayed shipping times, there’s nothing more cheerful than a pile of wrapped gifts under the tree to make your home feel ready for the holidays. To save on wrapping costs, consider using recycled paper (newspaper or last year’s wrapping paper) or brown kraft paper. Twine instead of ribbon is an affordable and more sustainable holiday-themed option, and a few sprigs of green pulled from your backyard or a walk in the woods will make your gifts look like a scene from a Hallmark holiday movie.

4. Visit the dollar store with a few DIYs in mind
Discount or dollar stores are a no-brainer for affordable holiday décor like twinkle lights, tinsel ornaments and just about anything you need to deck the halls. If you find dollar store items are more tacky than charming, consider doing a DIY project to bring new life to discount holiday décor. For example, a miniature holiday village made with plastic or ceramic houses found at the dollar store can easily be transformed into a modern holiday scene with a spray coat of paint that matches your décor (solid white is a classic option). Add a battery-powered tea light candle and you’ll create a classy holiday village for just a few dollars.

5. Skip the traditional tree and decorate a houseplant instead
Decorating a fir, spruce or poplar is a holiday tradition in many households. But if you live in a small space, are sticking to a budget or simply want to switch it up, decorating houseplants you already own is an easy and affordable way to transform your home in an Instagram-worthy holiday scene. Simply hang a few ornaments and add a string of twinkle lights and you won’t miss the traditional tree. If houseplants feel more tropical than traditional, consider going for a nature walk to find free seasonal greens like sprigs of cedar, pinecones, acorns or other evergreen cuttings to display in your home.

6. Decorate and display a gingerbread house
Decorating a gingerbread house is a must-do holiday activity for many families, and they’re not just for kids. Gingerbread houses are whimsical, sweet and do double duty as decoration and dessert. Plus, DIY gingerbread house kits are affordable and easy to find at most grocery stores. Add a tablecloth and display your gingerbread house on a pretty plate or cake stand to make it a budget-friendly decoration worth waiting until Christmas to eat.

Decorating on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on that warm and cozy holiday feeling. By getting creative, shopping for multi-purpose pieces and hunting for deals on unique items, you can stick to a budget without sacrificing on holiday style.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/6-classy-ways-to-decorate-for-the-holidays-on-a-budget/15714/1367

Upgrade Your Front Door: Smart Doorbells Canadian Homeowners Loved in 2025

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT

In today’s connected world, smart doorbells have become a must-have upgrade for many Canadian homeowners. They offer convenience, visibility, and peace of mind right at your doorstep(and fingertips).

Beyond a simple chime to let you know someone is the door, these devices stream live video, send real-time alerts, and let you talk to visitors directly from your smart device, even if you’re out getting groceries or on vacation.

How smart video doorbells provide you with more security

Smart video doorbells have quickly become one of the most accessible ways for homeowners to enhance their security without major renovations or complicated installations.

These devices allow you to see, hear, and speak to visitors from anywhere, giving you real-time awareness of what’s happening at your front door. Motion-activated alerts and high-definition video mean you’re notified the moment someone steps onto your property. For busy Canadian households, this added visibility offers peace of mind whether you’re at the office, running errands, or away on vacation.

Beyond monitoring, smart doorbells act as a powerful deterrent. The presence of a camera alone can discourage unwanted visitors, while two-way audio lets you say something instantly and create the impression that someone is always home.

Many models also store video clips that can help resolve delivery issues or support police reports if needed. Combined with simple installation and integrations with existing smart-home systems, smart video doorbells offer a practical, affordable way for Canadian homeowners to strengthen their home’s security.

Common concerns about smart doorbell

Even with their rising popularity, some homeowners still feel unsure about whether a smart video doorbell is right for them. Questions about setup, cost, and long-term reliability can make the decision feel more complicated than it needs to be. The good news? Newer models have come a long way, offering smarter features, easier installation, and thoughtful design updates that address many of these concerns.

Here are a few common worries and what to consider when choosing a model.

Subscription costs: Some brands charge a small monthly fee for video storage or advanced features. If that’s a concern, look for options with local storage or free cloud plans that still offer essential functionality.
Installation challenges: Older homes, condos, or units without existing doorbell wiring might require a different setup. In those cases, battery-powered models provide a simple, reliable solution with minimal tools required.
Privacy and data protection: Many homeowners want to ensure their footage stays secure. Look for smart doorbells that offer strong encryption, customizable activity zones, and flexible recording settings so you stay in control of what gets captured.
Cold-weather performance: Canadian winters can be tough on electronics, especially battery-powered devices. If you’re in a colder climate, consider wired or hybrid systems that maintain consistent performance year-round.

How secure are smart doorbells

Security is a key consideration when investing in a smart camera doorbell. Leading models now feature encrypted video, secure logins, and regular firmware updates to safeguard your home and data.

Added tools such as night vision, two-way audio, and motion detection enhance both protection and convenience.

Below are some key features to look for and why.

Encrypted video streams: Keep footage private and protected.
Tamper alerts: Warns you if the device is disturbed or removed.
Local storage: Saves recordings directly on the device instead of the cloud.
Two-step verification: Strengthens account security.

Are smart doorbells difficult to install?

Most smart doorbells are built with simplicity in mind, making them easy for homeowners to install without professional support. Battery-powered models are especially straightforward as you just charge the device, connect it to your home’s Wi-Fi, and snap it into place using the included mounting bracket. No wiring, drilling, or electrician required.

Wired options do take a bit more planning. You’ll need to switch off the power and connect the doorbell to your existing chime system, which can be a good fit for homeowners who want a consistent power source.

For renters and condo dwellers, wireless doorbells with adhesive or removable mounts offer a convenient, no-damage alternative.

While professional installation is always an option, it’s typically only necessary for more advanced or fully integrated home security setups.

What to consider when choosing a smart doorbell in Canada

Choose models specifically designed for Canada’s climate, with hardware and batteries tested to perform well in freezing temperatures and wet weather.

Look for smart doorbells that offer bilingual English and French support and meet Canadian privacy and data protection requirements (the good news is most products for sale in Canada will adhere to these requirements).

Select devices with built-in local storage if you want to keep your footage private and reduce dependence on external cloud servers. Remember, a , reliable night vision feature is essential for clear footage in low light. Ensure your home Wi-Fi provides a strong and stable signal at the front door to maintain clear video and reliable alerts, and try to select a reputable brand that provides solid customer support and warranty coverage in Canada.

Your next step toward a smarter, safer home

Investing in a smart doorbell is an easy, practical way to make your home feel safer, more convenient, and more connected. With thoughtful features designed for different lifestyles and property types, today’s devices do far more than send a simple alert.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/upgrade-your-front-door-smart-doorbells-canadian-homeowners-loved-in-2025/40079/1367

Home Maintenance 101: Understanding Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT

For most, the extent of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems knowledge is as follows: when it’s cold out, turn on the heat and when it’s hot, turn on the A/C. However, as homeowners, it’s important to know how these systems work, what maintenance is required, and when it’s time to look at updating your system.

The basics of HVAC systems

Your home’s temperature control system typically includes three basic components:

a source for warm or cool air, such as an air conditioner or furnace;
a means of distributing the air throughout your home, such as ducts or vents and
a way to regulate the temperature, such as a thermostat. Fuel or energy is used to make the system run – everything from electricity to natural gas to propane.

The whole system, including the air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, ductwork, filter, air quality products, etc., is also known as a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system.

How HVAC systems work

With most heating systems, fuel or energy, such as electricity, gas, oil, or wood, is used to produce heat. This heat is distributed through your home via ducts or pipes depending on your system. Some systems (like a ductless heat pump) distribute the heated (or cooled) air directly.

Traditional air conditioners have two components: an indoor coil and an outdoor condenser. These components absorb heat and humidity from within your home and move it outside to an outdoor unit. Refrigerant in your cooling system is key to this process. The refrigerant undergoes a transition from a gas to a liquid state, cooling warm when it comes into contact with the coils.

Ventilation refers to things like air distribution (ductwork), exhaust, filtering, energy recovery, and the like.

Most systems fall into one of these categories:

Split systems—These are the most common systems, where there is one unit to heat air and another to cool it. The heating system is housed inside (usually in a basement) and the cooling system is placed outside. Hot and cold air is distributed throughout the home by ducts.
Ductless systems—These systems have individual units that produce both hot and cold air for a specific room or zone. An unit is mounted indoors and is connected to an outdoor compressor.
Hybrid systems—These systems are set up and function similarly to a split system. The difference is they can switch between fuel source (typically gas and electricity) to help maximize efficiency.

Common heating and cooling systems

Forced-air systems
These systems blow heated or cooled air through your home. A forced-air system distributes heat produced by the furnace or the coolness produced by a central air conditioner through an electrically powered fan, called a blower. The blower forces the air through a system of ducts throughout your home. As the warm air from the furnace flows into the rooms, colder air in the rooms flows down through another set of ducts (the cold air return system), to the furnace to be warmed. Central air conditioning systems use the same forced-air system, including the blower, to distribute cool air and bring warmer air back to be cooled.

Heat pumps
A fuel burning furnace is different from a heat pump in that it requires a fuel to produce heat. A heat pump takes heat out of the air (even when it’s really cold), compresses it, and moves it to another location. In the winter, that means moving heat inside, and the reverse in the summer. Heat pumps can be used in a split system (and ducted) or there are ductless options.

Geothermal heat pump
Where a traditional heat pump uses the outside air, a geothermal system uses the relatively constant temperature of the earth to transfer heat to and from your home through buried pipes (ground loops) to a heat pump.

Boilers
A boiler heats water which is then distributed through the home through pipes via radiators or a coil in your ductwork which is then distributed by an air handler. Boilers send cold water, hot water, or steam through pipes that run throughout your home.

Radiant systems
Radiant systems are run by a boiler and distribute heat using a radiator. Water is heated up by the furnace and heat is distributed through pipes that are embedded in the walls, floors, or ceilings. Radiant systems can only be used for heating.

How to maintain your HVAC system

No matter what HVAC system you have, like most things in your home, they require regular maintenance. Taking care of your system can reduce your energy bills, resulting in the need for fewer costly repairs, better air quality, and less system breakdowns. While it’s best to leave maintenance of these systems to the pros, there are some things you can do to help extend their life:

Maintenance checklist

replace air filters regularly (every 30 to 90 days);
check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly;
inspect ducts for dust, mould, or debris and consider having them cleaned (especially if you have pets or after a reno);
during and after a heavy snowfall, make sure your furnace’s exhaust vent isn’t obstructed;
remove any debris from around your outside HVAC unit and clutter from the indoor unit;
ensure your outdoor HVAC unit is level;
ensure your thermostat is calibrated to your comfort preferences and monitor your energy bills accordingly;
check the batteries in your thermostat at least once a year; and
schedule regular HVAC maintenance with a trusted professional.

Signs your heating or cooling system needs to be replaced

The average lifespan of an HVAC system varies, typically anywhere from 10 to 25 years. Some symptoms that may suggest it’s time for a replacement include:

it’s old;
it’s unreliable and needs frequent repairs;
it runs constantly;
some rooms or zones in your home are not heating or cooling properly;
air quality in your home is noticeably poor, such as excessive dust, high humidity, or the presence of a mouldy odour; and/or
your energy bills have been unexpectedly increasing.

An outdated heating or cooling system won’t be as effective or energy efficient and can cost you more money compared to the cost of a new system. The cost of a new HVAC system depends on many factors, including the type of unit you’re installing, if new ducts are required, labour requirements, the size of your home, number of floors and bedrooms and bathrooms, and weather.

Understanding the heating and cooling system you have, as well as how to maintain it, is a key component to homeownership. After all, an HVAC system that runs smoothly means comfort no matter the season!

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/home-maintenance-101-understanding-heating-ventilation-and-air-conditioning-hvac-systems/30159/1367

Get Your Home Ready to Sell This Fall

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

This fall could shape up to be a fantastic time to enter the real estate market, whether you’re a buyer or a seller. The latest data from the Canadian Real Estate Association shows home sales in September were down from August, but that is actually setting up the stage for an end-of-year revival thanks to pent-up demand and lower interest rates.

If you’re thinking of listing your property this fall, there are a few simple things you can do to get your home ready to help it sell faster, easier, and at the highest price possible.

The advantages of selling in the fall
“The question isn’t so much whether buyers will return, but when,” explains Brendan Powell, a REALTOR® and Broker of Record with the BREL Team at Bspoke Realty in Toronto, Ontario. “The reality is, buyers will come back when they feel conditions are favourable. All sellers can do is be ready for when that happens.”

Luckily, while most homeowners think of spring as the ideal time to sell, the fall is actually a great time to list your home. Just some of the benefits of selling in the fall include:

typically there are less listings compared to spring, which helps your home stand out;
late winter and early spring can be a mucky mess to get your home all spruced up, but late summer and early fall provide great opportunities; and
more serious buyers who want to move in before the snow arrives, including people relocating for work or empty-nesters downsizing after their kids have left for school.

“September and October have consistently been busy times. Yes, that can mean more competition, but with more eyeballs, your home will benefit from broader exposure than in deep summer, when many Canadians tune out to enjoy the warmer weather.”

How consumers are feeling heading into Fall 2025
According to the RE/MAX 2025 Fall Housing Market Outlook report, following a pull-back of buyers during the first quarter of 2025, the Canadian housing market may be turning a new leaf this fall. Improved affordability and a boost in inventory levels could entice cautious buyers back into action, RE/MAX says.

“Canada’s real estate landscape paints a complex picture of resilience and caution, influenced by regional nuances and continued economic uncertainty. From seller-driven markets across much of Atlantic Canada and the Prairies, to buyer-friendly conditions in Ontario and British Columbia, the nation’s housing market reflects a delicate balance,” says Don Kottick, President of REMAX Canada.

The report states of Canadians planning to buy their first home within the next 12 months, 28% of them have a down payment of at least 20% saved.

About 68% of respondents said a 5% to 10% drop in property prices would make a meaningful difference in their ability to enter the market.

The interest rate cuts are also boosting the confidence of potential first-time home buyers in Canada, with younger Millennials and Gen Zs who are already actively saving feeling hopeful they’ll be able to enter the market soon.

According to the 2025 REMAX survey conducted by Leger, 63% believe they’ll be able to secure their asking price—a sign sellers may already be aligning their expectations with what buyers are willing to pay in today’s more balanced markets.

Make a great first impression
Once you’ve decided to sell, work with your REALTOR® to put together a plan to make sure you put your home’s best foot forward. For example, if there are any reno projects you’ve been putting off, like replacing old door knobs, fixing that broken step on your deck, or giving the interior of your house a fresh coat of paint, now’s the perfect time to get them done.

To brighten up the shorter days and darker nights that come with fall, clean your windows and screens, add some decorative accent lamps to any dark corners in your home, and open all the blinds, curtains and window coverings during showings to let in as much light as possible.

You might also want to consider adding some seasonal touches to your indoor décor, like hanging a fall-foliage-inspired wreath on the front door, or adding some orange or red throw pillows or blankets. To prepare your home for showings, turn your fireplace on if you have one, or add a sweet seasonal scent to your home by baking some gingerbread cookies or a pumpkin pie.

Consult with your REALTOR® before doing any staging on your own because fall overkill can distract buyers or completely turn them off of your home.

Stay on top of cleaning and upkeep
While fall leaves may be pretty to look at, they can also make a mess out of your otherwise pristine yard. If you have a showing or open house coming up, double check to make sure no one’s been tracking in any mud or dirt. To really maximize your curb appeal, don’t forget to consider what’s outside your home as well.

“Fall means yards and gardens are approaching the end of their summer foliage,” Powell says. “So clear out any flowers and plants that dry up in the fall, and stay on top of all those leaves. If you’re listing late in fall, consider adding some decorative outdoor plants that stay beautiful well into the colder weather, like decorative cabbage or black-eyed Susans.”

Of course, the last thing you want to discover on a cool autumn evening right before a buyer is coming to see your home, is that your furnace is on the fritz! Since most of us don’t use our furnaces much in the summer, a fall listing can be a great occasion to have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected.

Put the latest technology to work for you
Between virtual and 3D tours, 360-degree views, and remote showings, the technology associated with selling a home has come a long way in the past few years. Your REALTOR® can help put those technologies to work for you.

“If you plan to sell later in the year, get some outdoor photos done now, before the snow comes and the cooler weather hits,” Powell says. “Even if you’re still prepping inside, it’s worth a little early effort to capture what the summer peak looks like.”

“While your own snapshots might be fine, ask your REALTOR® to bring in their professional photographer ahead of time,” he adds. “Have a rock-star backyard? It may be worth shooting some drone photography or video to really capture things before the cold hits.”

Do your research
Because there are usually fewer buyers in the fall, it’s essential to stay on top of what’s happening in the market. This means having your REALTOR® do research on things like comparable listings in your area, tracking where your local housing market is headed, and understanding what buyers are looking for in a home right now.

“Changing demand, buyer expectations and your competition will all impact your sale’s timing and strategy,” Powell explains. “The right strategy could change from one day to the next, but the most successful sellers are the ones who listen to what the market, and their REALTOR®, are telling them, and act swiftly.

“Don’t get so stuck on a strategy, price or timing that you aren’t able to change it up to take advantage of opportunities,” he adds. “Your REALTOR® will know when to jump and when to pivot. Listen to them.”

Ask your REALTOR®
Lastly, when in doubt, ask your REALTOR® for advice! In addition to tracking the latest market statistics and keeping you informed about any future interest rate changes, your REALTOR® can walk you through each step in pricing, listing and getting your home ready to sell, and help you sell your property quicker, with less stress, and at the best price possible.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/get-your-home-ready-to-sell-this-fall/36786/1363

7 Common Decorating Mistakes to Avoid

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 16:50:00 GMT

An appealing living-room arrangement requires more than a beautiful color scheme and nice furniture. There are other factors to consider, such as balance, proportion and placement. Not sure what that means for you and your living room? We asked three design experts to reveal the most common styling errors that people make and how you can steer well clear of them. Accompanying the text are images of beautifully designed living rooms that get it right.

1. Rug That’s Too Small

“A great rug can be the making of your living room. It grounds your furniture and, in an open-plan space, defines the living area,” says interior designer Gabrielle Reinhardt.

“The most common mistake people make when purchasing a rug is choosing one that’s too small for both the room and the furniture in it,” Reinhardt says. “A too-small rug sits separately from the furniture in the room, making the space look disjointed and feel uninviting.”

Solution. “Measure up your living room and the main pieces of furniture in it before you hit the shops,” Reinhardt says. “Ideally, the rug you choose should be big enough to allow the key pieces of furniture to sit on top of it.

“If your living room is not big enough to allow everything to sit fully on your rug, choose a style that is slightly wider than your sofa and allows for the front legs of your sofa and any smaller furniture pieces — such as side tables and stools — to sit on it,” she says.

2. Television Is the Focus of the Room

“The television is the ruin of most living rooms,” Reinhardt says. “Many homeowners will choose an oversize television that is too big for the room and then center all the furniture around it, forgetting that the living room is for entertaining and conversation too.

“I also often see living rooms with nothing in them but a television and a modular sofa or a sofa and a chaise,” she says. “A bare set-up such as this makes the room feel cold and unwelcoming, and suggests that the living room has no purpose beyond watching television — which can be an instant conversation killer.”

Solution. “The television can be an integral part of your living room without being the focus of it. The key is to conceal it as much as possible and create a space that performs dual functions as a watching zone and relaxing-social space,” Reinhardt says.

“A built-in wall of cabinetry or a ready-made cabinet with shelves are two smart ways to detract attention from a television or conceal it altogether. Use the open sections of the cabinetry to house books, photos, ornaments and other interesting things that will draw the eye from the television and add personality to the room,” she says.

“Also consider having a smaller television in your living room and keeping the oversize screen for a media room or spare room — if you’re lucky enough to have one — where it can be hidden behind closed doors,” Reinhardt says.

3. Squashing All the Furniture Against the Wall

“Pushing all your living room furniture up against the walls is another common styling mistake people make,” Reinhardt says. “I often see rooms where the sofa is against one wall, with a pair of armchairs against another, and the coffee table stranded in the middle of the room where nobody can reach it. The result is a dull room that feels a little like the waiting room in a doctor’s surgery.”

Solution. “Moving the furniture deeper into the room and setting up conversational zones will instantly make your living room feel cozier and more welcoming,” she says.

“The arrangement that works best will depend on the shape and size of the room. You may decide to put the sofa against a wall, with a pair of armchairs opposite it and a coffee table in between them. Or, if your living room is spacious, you may choose to place the furniture near the middle of the room, with space around it to move about,” Reinhardt says.

4. Sofa That’s Too Big or Small

“Selecting a sofa that’s the wrong scale for your living room is the biggest blunder people make,” says Lily Cumberland, interior designer at Coco Republic. “It’s important to remember that a sofa will often appear to be quite different in size once it’s out of the showroom and in your home.

“Color can also have an impact on how big a piece appears. A dark sofa with a skirt that goes to the ground, for example, can look quite heavy or imposing in a very small living room,” Cumberland says.

Solution. “Measure up your living room, the other furniture in the room, and the sofa you have your eye on before you buy. Always start with a floor plan first to ensure that the scale and proportion of the piece works in the space and provides enough room to move around with ease,” Cumberland says.

“Then consider the style of sofa. In a compact living room, consider a sofa on legs and with narrow arms to give the illusion of more space. If you have a large room, you might consider a more substantial sofa, such as one with wide arms that sits close to the ground,” she says.

Tip: “If you don’t have easy access to a floor plan of your living room, mark out the size of a potential sofa on the floor with painter’s tape or newspaper before you buy it to test the dimensions.”

5. Bad Lighting

“Even with the best layout and flow, bad lighting can ruin the look and feel of your living room,” Cumberland says. “Generally, the problem comes down to either too much or too little light, and not enough options to allow you to use the space for different functions.”

Solution. “Look to create a smart, layered lighting scheme in your living room consisting of different light sources, such as a ceiling pendant, table and floor lamps and up or downlights. Setting them on dimmers allows you to alter the lighting levels and mood to suit the occasion,” she says.

“A layered lighting scheme also allows two people to use the space at the same time for different tasks without disturbing each other. For example, one person might be watching television with the lights dimmed, while another person is reading in the corner of the room with a floor light on,” Cumberland says.

“There are three types of lighting you’ll want to include: ambient lighting — a gentle wash of light that allows you to move around safely; accent lighting — to highlight special features in the room, such as art; and task lighting — for reading and other tasks where you need to see clearly,” she says.

6. Artwork Hung Too High

“Artwork is often hung too high to be properly seen or appreciated,” says Frances Cosway, principal designer at White Pebble Interiors. “Gallery style is the only hanging style that allows for artwork to be hung higher than eye height as it combines artworks of different sizes to create a wall of art.”

Solution. “Artwork should be hung at eye height, with the middle of the piece approximately 63 inches from the floor.”

7. Tiny Coffee Table

“A coffee table that is too small for the living room and surrounding furniture is a common sight and leads to a couple of issues,” Cosway says.

“First, if your coffee table is not in proportion with the room, sofa and any armchairs, it looks wrong visually and the space won’t feel cohesive or comfortable,” she says.

“A too-tiny coffee table can also prove a practical challenge. If the coffee table is too small for the sofa or chairs, it will often get positioned far away from them in an effort to create a sense of balance, which makes it hard to reach,” Cosway says.

Solution. “As a rule of thumb, your coffee table should be between half to one-third of the length of your sofa. Look to position it about 16 to 20 inches from the sofa and armchairs so you can reach it comfortably.”

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/7-common-decorating-mistakes-to-avoid-stsetivw-vs~166146496

What the 2025 Fall Market Could Look Like

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:00:00 GMT

At the start of the year, Canadian economists made their predictions of how they thought the national housing market would move for 2025. Yet, just like with the weather, sometimes there are fluctuations no one can quite predict. In this case those changes started south of the border.

So where is the housing market going for the rest of the year? First we need to look back a bit in order to get a clearer picture moving forward.

How tariffs changed real estate markets for 2025

The initial predictions for the market were a 8.6% rebound year-over-year from a sluggish 2024, says Ryan Biln, Economist with the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). With interest rates steadily declining and pent-up demand waiting for more affordable pricing, it would seem that 2025 would have been the year for home buyers to enter the market in impressive numbers.

Instead, the first half of the year started slowly, in large part thanks to concerns about tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The unpredictability of the tariff announcements meant buyers were skittish about locking in investments, especially if they worked in industries that were threatened by large-scale job losses. Those economic worries ultimately translated into broader uncertainty, particularly when Canadians were already impacted by rising inflation and wage stagnation.

Aside from our neighbours, influences from around the world changed the market as well. Restrictions on foreign buyers purchasing residential real estate had led to a drop in overseas investment.

Changes in foreign involvement in Canada’s real estate markets have impacted the rental market as well. Over the last several months, restrictions on foreign students obtaining study permits for Canadian schools has led to a significant cooling off in the rental market, particularly near colleges and universities.

Biln notes there have also been significant changes in Canada’s condo markets, particularly in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Sale prices on condo units have decreased significantly, but the inventory that is flooding the market is not for everyone. For example, a one-bedroom or two-bedroom unit holds little appeal for a family with several children. For some pre-construction properties, Biln says buyers have begun walking away from their deposit so as not to lose more money on their investment.

Canadian home sales are rebounding heading into fall

While the year may have started off slowly, things may be looking up, albeit cautiously. Biln explains the national market just reached its fifth month of rising sales in a row, and the busiest August nationwide since 2021.

Biln says the market is in a balanced state across the country at the moment, although that does not paint an entirely accurate picture. Ontario and British Columbia, for example, are experiencing more buyers’ markets, while the Prairies and Atlantic Canada are leaning towards sellers’ markets. And with the latest Bank of Canada move to lower interest rates, it should mean a modest increase in market activity.

Biln notes buyers still have concerns. Continuous headlines about a potential recession has many buyers shopping more cautiously, or still waiting for further signs of stability. While economic headlines have been less prevalent last summer, uncertainty is still there, and that anxiety is definitely having some impact.

How will local real estate markets fare to close out 2025?

It is nearly impossible to determine the forecast for the Canadian housing market because, as Biln notes, it does not exist—at least not in that way. The country is highly regional, and so the market in Vancouver may look different than it does in Edmonton, which is different from Toronto which can be entirely different from Halifax.

In Toronto and Vancouver, the condo markets have taken a significant hit as noted earlier, which in those markets represents a sizable portion of the market. In parts of the Greater Toronto Area and Greater Golden Horseshoe there are signs of stabilization, and lower prices in some areas, but even these two cities are not identical. In Vancouver, affordability is still a challenge, but in the suburbs, the family-oriented housing market is, as Biln describes, “holding up better.”

In Edmonton, the market had started the year high, but appears to be cooling down moving into the fall. Housing prices are more affordable than nearby Calgary, and that affordability has made for a stronger market overall. However, the numbers show that local demand is still somewhat cautious. The Halifax market had seen a boom during the pandemic due to remote work and migration, and it remains active. While it has slowed slightly, other more-affordable markets throughout Nova Scotia have experienced a surge.

No one has a crystal ball, and it is impossible to determine with any certainty what’s coming down the pipeline next. One thing is for sure though, a REALTOR® is still your best guide in the buying process. A licensed REALTOR® knows your local market, understands local trends, and can advise you on the things that are most important to you.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/what-the-2025-fall-market-could-look-like/39634/1362

What the Bank of Canada’s Rate Cut Means for Housing Markets

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 16:00:00 GMT

The Bank of Canada just made its first interest rate move since March. As of today, September 17, the key overnight policy rate has been lowered by 25 basis points, from 2.75% to 2.5%, its lowest level in three years.

Here’s what that means for Canadians who are watching real estate markets and why this shift could matter more than it seems to home buyers and homeowners.

What did the Bank of Canada do on Sept. 17?

The Bank lowered its benchmark rate, citing signs of a weakening economy, a softening labour market, lower inflationary pressures, and concerns about external risks, such as trade and tariff instability.

Because the overnight rate influences many borrowing costs (including the prime rate), changes here tend to ripple through to mortgage rates, lines of credit, and other variable-rate debt. The prime rate serves as the baseline for variable-rate mortgages and is increased or decreased in increments that match the Bank of Canada’s policy changes.

Screenshot from the Bank of Canada.

How homeowners benefit from a lower interest rate

One of the most immediate effects of a rate cut is for homeowners whose mortgages are variable, or whose payments adjust with the prime rate. The 2024 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Mortgage Consumer Survey states about 23% of Canadian mortgage holders have a variable rate, while 69% opted for a fixed rate.

That means the September cut should translate into some instant savings for about one in every four Canadian mortgage holders.

What this means for people entering the housing market

Even though fixed rates aren’t directly tied to every move of the Bank’s policy rate, they are influenced by bond yields, market expectations, and overall borrowing costs. When the key rate falls, fixed rates tend to drift downward (or at least stabilize), especially if markets believe this is part of a broader easing cycle.

This means some home buyers who were previously priced out because of high interest costs may now qualify for the home they want. Lower interest payments mean a given income can support a somewhat larger mortgage.

Recent data from mortgage-rate aggregators show typical five-year fixed rates in many parts of Canada are now in the 3.7% to 4.5% range, and variable offers are close behind.

The outlook ahead: what CREA’s data says

The outlook for fall 2025 remains cautiously optimistic. The Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) recent housing market report assumes that pent-up demand, combined with lower borrowing costs and a surge in listings could lead to a rebound in market activity across Canada. August proved to be the fifth straight month of increased home sales and new listings are up 8.8% compared to this time last year.

CREA Senior Economist Shaun Cathcart said if you’re a first-time home buyer this could be a sweet spot to time your purchase.

“I think we’re going to see a lot of (buyers) start to show up and start to pick these listings off any day now,” he said during the latest Housing Market Report.

Are further interest rate cuts likely to come?

Many economists had been betting on more rate easing later in 2025, depending on inflation behavior, economic output, and global uncertainty. With its move to 2.5%, the Bank has room, but will likely be cautious. Markets will be watching upcoming inflation reports, employment data, and international developments.

Why you should use a REALTOR® now

Your REALTOR® is your personal real estate MVP. While you’re figuring out financing, they can already get to work behind the scenes.

If you’re buying, this means setting up searches for you, attending open houses on your behalf, and asking around to their connections about what might be coming available.

If you’re selling, your REALTOR® can get to work marketing your property right away, getting it ready for staging and compiling documentation, all without severely disrupting your routines.

By now you know interest rates impact the Canadian real estate landscape and that likely isn’t about to change any time soon. Making the right decision at the right moment seems like a lot of pressure when you don’t know where interest rates will be on a month-to-month basis.

Thankfully REALTORS® monitor market trends and housing data to make sure, whether you’re buying or selling, your best interests are kept top of mind.

Don’t put it off any longer.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/what-the-bank-of-canadas-rate-cut-means-for-housing-markets/39555/1362

How to Help Your Garden Survive a Heat Wave

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

We’ve all experienced it: blistering temperatures, above our typical summer averages, that have us flocking to the comfort of our homes. But what about the plants in our gardens? Unless they are in a pot and can be brought indoors, plants are stuck outside, bearing the brunt of the heat wave with no escape. Most summers have a period of abnormally high temperatures that can be highly stressful for plants — even native and drought-tolerant species — resulting in wilting, sunburn and even death.

Thankfully, there are methods we can use to moderate the damaging effects of a heat wave. We will go over five ways to help your plants survive the heat, and look at how to determine if you can revive a “fried” plant.

Heat waves don’t arrive without warning, and today’s weather technology gives us several days in which to prepare plants for an onslaught of intense heat.

Definitions of what constitutes a heat wave vary, with most stating that it’s a period of abnormally high temperatures for that particular region. Some specify that a heat wave lasts at least two days, while others begin at five days. One definition I found stated that a heat wave is when temperatures are 9 degrees Fahrenheit above the average high.

Plants in containers are most susceptible to extreme heat, as the air temperatures can “cook” the roots as well as the tops. Shallow-rooted plants such as annuals are particularly sensitive to the effects of a heat wave, while most succulents are fairly tolerant.

Let’s start with the most important tip of all.

1. Give Your Plants Extra Water

High temperatures increase the rate that water is lost to the atmosphere from a plant’s leaves, resulting in wilting and sunburn damage. You’ll need to increase the amount of supplemental irrigation that they receive. It’s best to do this the day before the heat wave arrives.

When you water your plants is also important. Irrigating them in the middle of a hot day isn’t effective, as your shrubs and perennials are devoting all their energy to dealing with surviving the heat, not to taking up water. The best time to water plants is early in the morning, when temperatures are lower, which will help carry them through the day.

Avoid overwatering, which is also harmful to plants. If the soil is soggy, skip the extra watering session, as it will do more harm than good.

2. Provide Temporary Shade

On a hot summer’s day, we all look for a shady spot where temperatures are a few degrees lower. Unfortunately, plants can’t move toward the shade, but we can bring it to them.

Nurseries and big-box stores carry landscape burlap and shade cloth, which can be placed on top of plants to screen them from the sun. Other temporary shade methods include using a portable shade canopy to shield an area of the garden from the sun. Even a single patio chair can protect a low-growing plant.

If you have container plants, place them on rollers so that you can move them as needed to a shady area.

3. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch

Hot temperatures don’t affect just the parts of the plant that are above the ground; they also impact the roots. Adding a layer of mulch around trees, shrubs and ground covers will help keep the soil several degrees cooler while preventing it from drying out.

Apply mulch about 3 inches thick around your plants, spreading it to the drip line (where the branches extend out to) and taking care to keep it 6 inches away from the trunks of trees.

4. Avoid Pruning

It’s tempting to prune away sunburned growth, as it isn’t attractive, but put away those pruners. Although the outer foliage may be damaged, it’s protecting the interior of the plant by providing shade. Wait to prune away sun-damaged growth until temperatures return to normal. For extra safety, wait until summer is almost over before pruning away in case of the arrival of another heat wave.

5. Skip Fertilizing

As we talked about earlier, plants devote all their resources to surviving a heat wave. Because of this, they can’t spare the energy to take up fertilizer, which remains in the soil and can “burn” the plant. After the scorching weather has abated, go ahead and resume your regular fertilizing schedule.

Is Your Plant Dead or Alive?

The damaging effects of a heat wave can leave you with a “fried” plant. So, how can you tell if it’s dead or can be revived?

Wilting: This signals that a plant is unable to take up water quickly enough to replace what’s lost through its leaves, which is a common occurrence in unusually hot weather.

Whether or not a plant can recover is determined by the “permanent wilting point” of that particular type of plant. If it has gone past that point, then no amount of water will bring it back. However, if the leaves begin to plump up after being watered deeply, then the plant should be fine.

Sunburned leaves: This is another sign of heat damage. When this happens, check to see if the stems are green or pliable; if so, the plant is still alive. Additionally, if there’s still some green present on the leaves, then the plant is salvageable.

Avoid removing the sunburned leaves until the heat wave is over, as they protect the healthy leaves. If the majority of the plant experienced sunburn, let any leaves with green areas remain, as that green part still functions to photosynthesize to help the plant grow new leaves.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-help-your-garden-survive-a-heat-wave-stsetivw-vs~90673598

5 Common Bathroom Design Mistakes to Avoid

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 17:31:09 GMT

Adding to or remodeling your house is one of the most exciting and creative processes you can go through. But with all that responsibility comes pressure to make informed decisions that will last. How can you make sure to get the right design for your lifestyle, stay within your budget and maximize the return on your investment? Start with a great design for every room in your house — including (or especially) the bathroom.

Bathrooms, whether big or small, should always be well thought out and carefully located, and should function with multiple users in mind. We’re long past the era where there was one bathroom for every three bedrooms in the house, and everyone had all the time needed to use it. Today’s bathrooms need to be beautiful, use space efficiently and serve the users functionally. Avoiding common design blunders, as these rooms nicely do, can help you be happier with your bathroom for the long haul.

1. No View Out
No one likes a dark, damp bathroom with bad circulation — it’s no fun spending time in a space like that. If you’re building or relocating a bathroom, try to site it on an outside wall with windows.

If windows are not an option, installing an operable skylight can allow for the fresh air and natural light needed to make the space feel comfortable.

2. Clear View in From Public Rooms
I once worked on a large remodel for which the existing design had a bathroom in the dining room — seems kind of like a conflict of interests, right? Whenever possible, avoid locating the bathroom directly off one of the home’s public rooms — like the kitchen, living room or dining room.

This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to put in a long hallway, but create some sort of formal separation to break up the line of sight. The last thing you want is to be sitting in the living room with a glass of wine and looking straight into the bathroom at the toilet.

3. Making It All About the Toilet
That leads me to my next blunder: Avoid making the toilet the first thing you see in the bathroom, and avoid any sightlines to it from adjacent rooms. I like to put the toilet and shower in their own room while keeping the sink separate. This allows someone to take a shower while someone else gets ready at the sink.

In the bathroom floor plan here, the wall between the two rooms adds only a couple of inches to the overall size of the bathroom but doubles the room’s functionality.

4. Not Considering a Curbless Shower
A curbless shower makes a bathroom feel bigger and look cleaner — plus, it’s practical for aging-in-place homeowners, since it adheres to universal design principles.

This design can be fairly easy to achieve in a new bathroom and often in a remodel as well. Just make sure you talk to your architect or contractor about it in the planning stages prior to construction.

5. Thinking Bigger Is Better
That’s right: Bigger isn’t better; better is better. Whether you’re designing a large master bathroom in your dream home or trying to figure out how to squeeze in an extra bathroom for your growing family, the most important aspect of your new bathroom is that it has a great design that functions efficiently for your specific lifestyle.

The truth is, great design is less about how a bathroom looks (although it’s always nice when it looks fantastic) and more about how it works. Great design translates to a house that functions better, costs less to build, is more efficient to maintain and gets you more for less.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-common-bathroom-design-mistakes-to-avoid-stsetivw-vs~19332903

The 10 Most Popular New Living Spaces Right Now

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:56:00 GMT

Several things can contribute to a successful living room design. Standout architectural features like fireplaces, custom built-ins and beamed or vaulted ceilings — as well as cohesive color palettes, rich materials and thoughtful furniture layouts — are all worth considering to elevate the look and feel of a space. You’ll find plenty of ideas to try in this countdown of the most-saved new living room photos recently uploaded to Houzz.

10. Sky High
This family room is part of a new open-plan kitchen, living and dining space added to the rear of a London home. Ahrberg Jackson Design helped select the finishes and furnishings, which include a stylish rose-and-sage color palette, floral wallpaper in the dining area, and a midtone wood entertainment unit with a mix of open and closed storage space plus a decorative slatted panel. The walls and ceiling are drenched in grayish-green paint that feels both bright and cozy thanks to a skylight and floor-to-ceiling glass.

9. Edgy Elegance
Open to a billiard room with a bar on one side and a spacious kitchen on the other, this Chicago-area family room by Amy Storm & Co. was designed for entertaining. The earthy, edgy mix of materials and colors reflects the home’s black-and-stone exterior. A chunky, geometric black coffee table echoes the bold aesthetic, anchoring an inviting seating area with a sectional upholstered in a nubby, neutral fabric.

8. Jardin Chic
In this relatively petite Parisian living room, Anne Chemineau maximized space with a built-in sectional that combines seating and storage. On the far wall, slim open shelving shows off decorative objects as well as the sweet floral wallpaper behind them. The contemporary furniture and pendant light contrast with the room’s traditional architectural details, which include a tray ceiling, elaborate molding, an arched glass door and a tall mirror with a richly embellished frame.

7. Let In the Light
Full-height glass and soaring ceilings connect this open-plan living room to its tropical setting south of Miami. Wecselman Design collaborated with the client and architect, Max Strang, to harmonize the interiors with a mature tree at the center of the property, choosing streamlined furnishings and a cohesive, quiet palette of black, beige, white and blond wood.

6. Rock and a Soft Place
Toblesky Green Architects connected this Reno, Nevada, living room to a covered veranda using a zero-corner glass bifold door system, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining space with dual fireplaces and TVs set into rugged stone. Inside, designer Theresa Reed furnished a cozy seating area with a plush sectional, soft rug and two Teddy bear-like chairs, all in warm earthy tones drawn from the wooded landscape.

5. Sunken Treasure
In a newly built home in Kirkland, Washington, Cohesively Curated designed a chic seating arrangement featuring a sectional and a round coffee table with a reeded base. A warm neutral palette and tactile textures flow through the open-plan layout into this sunken area, where a smoky blue velvet lounge chair adds a subtle pop of contrasting color — and appears to swivel so its occupant can face the stone-clad fireplace.

4. Neutral Expression
A steeply pitched, beamed cathedral ceiling creates a sense of spaciousness in this living room, while drawing the eye toward the minimalist fireplace and TV design. Built by Stonewood in a Minneapolis suburb, the home also has shed dormers and extra-tall black-framed windows that enhance the light-filled, open-plan space. The architecture may be dramatic, but the furnishings’ color palette is much more restrained, sticking to light neutral tones and accented with black elements that echo the window frames.

3. Global Appeal
Soaring ceilings gave designers from ODS Architecture the opportunity to hang a cluster of globe-style pendant lights over this contemporary Hillsborough, California, living room. The pendants’ gossamer-like shades, which filter the natural light coming in through the room’s large glass doors and windows, are voluminous but light and airy, creating a sculptural focal point without visual heft. Rounded furnishings echo the lights’ curves and soften the architecture’s straight lines and right angles.

2. Midcentury Meets Contemporary
Working with Guy Ayers Architect, Jeanne Moeschler Interior Design refreshed this midcentury Eichler home in Los Altos, California, for clients drawn to a Big Sur-inspired, coastal-cabin look. Moeschler — who uses Houzz Pro business software to manage projects — brought the outdoors in with blues and greens drawn from the views, along with earthy materials like raw linen, stone, wood and handmade ceramics. Light stone floors and pale sofas help brighten the once-dark interior and let the wood-paneled peaked ceiling get the attention it deserves.

1. That’s a Wrap
A striking fireplace structure made of black soapstone, walnut veneer and plaster takes center stage in this Raleigh, North Carolina, room by contractor Rafael Lopez of HomeBuild — whom the homeowner found on Houzz — and designer Alona Perov of Co Interiors. Set a few inches off the wall, the feature hovers slightly above the floor, extends up a wall and continues partway across a 12-foot ceiling painted a warm shade of gray. Multicolor LED backlights enhance its dramatic, floating effect, and clean-lined furnishings complement its contemporary-modern style.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/the-10-most-popular-new-living-spaces-right-now-stsetivw-vs~182138599

Figuring Out Fences: What You Need to Know

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Whether you want more privacy and security or to enhance the design of your backyard retreat, adding a fence can make a huge difference to how you enjoy your space. And while you might be wondering if you should invest in budget-friendly chain link or more luxury materials, it’s even more important to make sure your fencing project complies with municipal regulations and bylaws, including your legal property lines. Here’s what you need to know, and how experts can help.

Where to start before putting up a fence

Before knocking on any doors, do some research to figure out what kind of fence you want, when you’d like to have it installed, and what municipal rules and requirements you’ll have to respect. This includes minimum and maximum heights and types of models and materials permitted, says Kelly Grant, an associate and REALTOR® with MaxWell POLARIS in Edmonton, Alberta.

“Once that’s established, then it’s important to speak with the neighbours to decide what the project is going to be before any work takes place—including any suppliers or installers being hired,” says Grant, who is also a civil and construction management engineer.

Brian Hutchinson, co-owner of outdoor construction company Groupe Ubora in Baie-d’Urfé, Quebec, always asks homeowners for a copy of the certificate of location before beginning a new fence project.

“It shows us the plot plan of the home, including the size of the house and your land. That’ll tell us exactly where the fence should be. Then at that point, it’s up to our clients: if they want it right on the shared line, then ideally, it’s advisable to split the cost with the neighbour,” explains Hutchinson.

If you don’t have a current certificate of location, Grant advises hiring a licensed surveyor to determine exactly where the property line is and create a new property report in compliance with the municipality. The surveyor will stake your boundaries with pins.

Consider your neighbours when installing a fence

If you’re sharing the cost of the fence with your neighbour, Hutchinson suggests putting that detail in writing so the contractor plans will show the fence either inside the property line if you’re footing the bill, or right on the line if the fee will be shared. Your neighbours are not required to pay for new fencing or upgrades, notes Grant.

“If one or multiple neighbours do not want a fence, they cannot legally stop you from installing a fence on your own property that’s inside the property line, providing the homeowner meets all the municipal and/or condo by laws,” he says.

With several neighbours beside and behind you, each fence project is mutually exclusive from the other and should have separate agreements, he adds, and for any fencing disputes, it’s smart to consult a lawyer for advice if an agreement can’t be reached. Even if you’re not planning to split the cost of the new fence, it’s always advisable to inform your neighbours as a courtesy, he adds.

“There are going to be trucks and equipment, and when we drill and cement the post, it can make a bit of a mess in terms of excavation. We always clean it up afterwards, but good to be aligned with whoever is beside you and behind you,” says Hutchinson.

What should your fence be made of?

There are options at all price points for new fencing. A chain link fence is the most economical, followed by pressure-treated wood and ornamental versions that look like steel.

“Then, we have a hybrid and vinyl mix, which is an aluminum post and frames and a vinyl plank, which looks like a composite. And finally, there’s aluminum and composite, which is the higher-end style of fencing,” says Hutchinson.

If you’re sharing the cost with a neighbour, Hutchinson recommends a hybrid aluminum and vinyl fence or a composite fence because they look the same on both sides while providing good privacy. Other considerations include the size of fence panels, gates and hardware, distances between fence posts, and any foundations required, adds Grant.

“To take maximum advantage of your fence investment for resale, I advise homeowners to consider earth tones that would appeal to most future buyers, as opposed to others that stand out, that might only appeal to a small segment of buyers,” he says.

Check with your municipality regarding fence specifications

You might have restrictions on which fence to install depending on where you live—anything from how far you must set the fence back from the property line, to acceptable building materials, to standardized heights. For example, in one city Hutchinson regularly does work in, the height of a fence is allowed to be six feet six inches, whereas other municipalities cap that at six feet.

“If you have a pool, the exterior of your fence cannot show the framing. So, if you’re doing a traditional wood fence with horizontal 2-by-4s, those must be on the inside because a child could climb up the back side of the fence if the frame is facing the street,” he explains. “Other towns don’t allow chain links for the front of your home, but they do allow them for the side and for the back.”

How to be considerate when building a fence

When discussing your fence project with neighbours (whether they’re chipping in or not) be clear about their existing landscaping, hardscaping, and plants.

“If somebody has a very landscaped yard, and there’s stone that goes up to the fence, or a garden that’s impossible to touch, those are all things that have to be talked about, as that can affect the cost,” notes Hutchinson.

“Sometimes people will hang their pool equipment on the existing fence, so it’s always good to be made aware of things like that to be sure everyone is aligned that, yes, we will be making somewhat of a mess when we come to take down a fence, drill four and a half feet deep and put our posts in.”

To reduce the mess, make sure your contractor puts down sheets of plywood or some other type of covering to protect grass or paving stones, suggests Hutchinson.

How your REALTOR® can help with fences

While REALTORS® can assist property owners by referring quality licensed surveyors and real estate lawyers that have experience securing property compliance, they cannot provide legal advice or tell you where to install your fence, notes Grant.

“We provide general advice, but not technical advice in those areas,” he explains. “REALTORS® can request a copy of the property report and compliance from the seller if it’s available and refer buyers to a qualified real estate lawyer for review to see if there’s any legal issues. If the real property report and compliance is not available at the time of the offer to purchase, the standard clause requires the seller to obtain municipal compliance on all facets of the property before completion.”

If the municipality discovers a non-complying fence, it will usually insist the seller remedy the situation, he adds. That could mean obtaining missing permits, removing the fence or compensating the buyer to do so.

Because buyers prefer homes with fences, Grant recommends sellers consider building one before putting your property on the market, as this can potentially increase its value. A well-built fence and well-maintained fence can elevate your property and last between 15 to 25 years.

But keep in mind, a poorly maintained fence may signal to buyers that there’s work to be done, which could keep some people on the sidelines. Your REALTOR® will be able to give you advice on whether it’s worth it for you to remove or fix up an old or damaged fence.

The more information you gather before building a fence, the more successful your project will be!

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/figuring-out-fences-what-you-need-to-know/39086/1367

Are Smart Locks Worth It? A Comparison Guide for Canadian Homeowners

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Smart locks are becoming one of those essential upgrades for tech-savvy homeowners across Canada providing convenience and enhanced control. With features like keyless entry, multiple access options, and heightened security, they’re redefining what it means to feel safe and connected at home.

But are they worth it? With concerns about installation, hacking risks, and reliability, let’s explore whether a smart lock is the right choice for your home and compare the best options available on the Canadian market.

Why Consider a Smart Lock?

Traditional locks are simple and reliable, but smart locks offer extra conveniences such as:

No more lost keys! You can unlock doors with a code, fingerprint, or smartphone.
Lock or unlock your doors from anywhere via an app.
Doors can lock automatically for added security.
Managing guest access control, as you can assign temporary codes for family, visitors, or service providers.

Common Concerns About Smart Locks (and Solutions!)

Some homeowners may still hesitate due to concerns like installation complexity, battery reliability, and hacking risks. Totally fair! Let’s see if we can help ease your fears a bit.

What if the smart lock runs out of power?

Battery life: Smart locks rely on batteries, and users worry about them dying unexpectedly. Don’t worry! Most smart locks send low battery alerts before they stop working.
Power outages: If a lock depends on Wi-Fi, what happens during an internet or power outage? Many models feature physical key overrides, so you’ll always have access.
Cold weather performance: Canada’s harsh winters can reduce battery efficiency, but with a bit of research, you can find some with extra-long battery life. We’re talking six months to a year per charge!

How secure are smart locks?

Cybersecurity threats: Some fear hackers could gain access through the lock’s app or Wi-Fi connection. But did you know that some top brands use the same security standards used by banks?
Data privacy: Concerns about whether manufacturers store access history and personal data. Most systems let you opt in or out of data ,or use the smart lock purely as a keyless entry system without connecting to the cloud.
Physical security: Locksmiths argue traditional locks are more durable and harder to tamper with, but some smart locks include tamper alerts that notify homeowners of unauthorized access attempts.

Are smart locks difficult to install?

Door Fit issues: Smart lock manufacturers tend to make them in a standard size for entryways, but always check your measurements before purchasing.
DIY vs. professional installation: Some homeowners worry about installing incorrectly. There are brands out there that retrofit onto existing deadbolts, making for a much easier installation.
Connectivity problems: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signals can be unreliable. However, modern smart locks use low-energy Bluetooth (BLE) and dual-band Wi-Fi to reduce interference and improve connectivity.

Final Verdict: Are Smart Locks a Good Idea?

Smart locks offer a blend of convenience and advanced security features that can significantly enhance the modern home. While they may not be suitable for everyone, their benefits are undeniable for busy homeowners, rental property managers, and tech enthusiasts.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons and selecting a model that fits your specific needs, you can make an informed decision about whether a smart lock is a worthwhile investment for your home.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/are-smart-locks-worth-it-a-comparison-guide-for-canadian-homeowners/39020/1367

What to Know About Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:00:00 GMT

An outdoor kitchen is a natural gathering spot in the landscape. After all, everyone ends up in the kitchen indoors, so the odds are great that the same thing will happen when there’s a kitchen outside. An outdoor kitchen encourages you to enjoy dining al fresco whenever the weather is good, whether you have guests or not. When it’s time to entertain on a larger scale, the outdoor kitchen allows you to be part of the party.

Read on to learn more about what adding an outdoor kitchen entails, whom to hire, the pluses and minuses of different appliances and building materials, added features you might want to consider and the timing of getting from the initial planning stage to the finished project.

An outdoor kitchen is a major undertaking in terms of time and expense. Before you take the plunge, decide if what you’re dreaming of is something you will use. If budget is a concern, consider adding an outdoor kitchen in stages.

Whom to Hire

There are a lot of pieces to consider for an outdoor kitchen, even if you’re doing a small, simple project, so finding the right pros is important. If your kitchen is part of a new landscape plan or the cornerstone of a landscape upgrade, you should be working with a landscape architect or landscape designer.

Businesses that sell outdoor appliances and materials often have a staff designer who can help you decide on the layout and features you need and can provide advice on how to make it happen.

A licensed general contractor who is experienced in outdoor kitchen construction can make sure the installation is done correctly. You will need to hire a licensed plumber and a licensed electrician for any plumbing or electrical work.

Design Considerations Before Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

Before getting to the actual design, think about exactly where the outdoor kitchen will go in your yard, the ideal size and layout of the space and the overall look and feel you want.

Your climate. One of the first things to consider is your climate. If summers are hot, muggy, rainy or short-lived, the amount of real time you’ll spend using the kitchen may be limited. A cold-winter climate will also mean additional maintenance to winterize the space.

Your lifestyle. A second consideration is what type of outdoor kitchen makes sense for your lifestyle. “We encourage homeowners to think about what they are going to use the kitchen for,” says Rob Douglass of TCP Custom Outdoor Living. “Is it just for them and their family? Is their family large or small? Do they entertain a lot or have big parties with lots of people?”

You may want an outdoor kitchen that comes with all the bells and whistles. Perhaps a simpler design that will make your current space more efficient is right for you. Whichever you choose, the space should be functional and hardworking. Most of all, it should be a space you’ll be happy to be in and to show off.

Where it will go. An outdoor kitchen should be easy to get to and easy to use. Designer John Algozzini of Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors usually locates an outdoor kitchen near the most routinely used exit from the house, such as the family room or kitchen. “Proximity and usability make for good design,” he says.

Douglass is also a fan of putting the outdoor kitchen near the home. “Being near the back door, for ease of bringing food out or for cleanup, is always ideal,” he says. Adds Daren Langhorne of Core Outdoor Living in Clifton, Virginia, “In our experience, most clients want to hide their outdoor kitchens from interior sight lines. We think just the opposite. Put it in full view to entice yourself and your visitors to go out and play.”

There are times when moving an outdoor kitchen further away from the house might make more sense. If you have a satellite outdoor dining or lounging area, locating the kitchen nearby makes it easy to serve food and drinks and adds to the outdoor living ambiance.

Locating a kitchen space near a pool or another destination in your yard may also entice people to explore and appreciate the rest of the landscape. If your home opens directly onto a heavily used spot where a lot of people interact, especially a play area for children, locating the kitchen slightly away from the action will give you a safer spot for food preparation.

Your yard’s microclimate will also be a factor. Choosing a spot that won’t get a lot of wind will make the outdoor kitchen more comfortable. Unless you want to add a roof or shade structure overhead, a location that receives direct sun might be too hot. An extremely shady spot might also be uncomfortable for several months of the year.

Size and layout. Even the smallest outdoor kitchen designed for a single cook will need enough space for food prep, cooking, serving and getting started on cleanup. If more than one person will be using the space, you’ll want enough room for everyone to move comfortably.

The layouts that work well in indoor kitchens will be equally functional outside. Looking at the pros and cons of each can help you decide what will work best for your space and your needs.

How to Choose the Right Size and Layout for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Style. An outdoor kitchen is a great way to showcase your landscape’s design style. You might opt for a traditional look with classic brick; a Mediterranean style featuring stucco finishes, a granite countertop and a pizza oven; or a tropics-inspired outdoor paradise complete with a tiki bar. “The key item is that all the spaces should be synchronized, just like the interior of your home,” Algozzini says.

Outdoor Kitchen Appliances and Fixtures

Deciding what you want in your outdoor kitchen can be overwhelming. You’ll need a grill, of course, but would two be better? What’s the best refrigeration to choose? Should you add a sink?

To narrow down the list, focus first on what makes sense for you and your family. You can always plan so that it’s possible to add more to the design in the future

Grills and other cooking elements. A built-in grill is the centerpiece of an outdoor kitchen. Choosing the right grill for what you want to cook, how you want to cook and who you want to cook for is your starting point.

Refrigeration. An undercounter or full-size refrigerator makes it easy to stock cold drinks and keep food from spoiling. Adding a freezer, either separately or as part of the unit, gives you a spot for ice cubes, ice cream and other frozen treats.

You might consider adding two refrigerator units, with one specifically designed to hold beverages. If you place the latter near the end of the counter, your family and guests can easily access the beverage of their choice without getting in the way of the food preparation. A beer tap will add a party feel to the space. A long trough or bin that you can fill with ice and drinks can serve the same purpose as a drink refrigerator.

Any unit you choose will need to be rated for outdoor use to handle the high and low temperatures found outdoors. To extend its life, install the unit where it is sheltered. You may also need to take steps to protect it from freezing temperatures and long cold spells.

Sinks and faucets. A sink gives you a spot to rinse off food before cooking, wash veggies straight from the garden or even soak a pan or two. A stainless steel sink is both weather-hardy and easy to care for, although it can get hot and reflective in direct sun. Other material choices for an outdoor sink include stone, concrete and hammered metals such as copper or nickel.

Whatever material you choose, be sure it’s rated for outdoor use. Fortunately, most sinks are easy to take care of. You can also add a cover to keep dirt and debris out when it is not in use.

Sink installation isn’t as simple as it might seem, especially if you want both hot and cold water. “You’ll need to run both supply lines and add a drain line,” Algozzini says. Douglass adds that you might even need to add a small hot water heater.

You’ll find faucets that are stationary, that swivel or that allow you to pull down the faucet head. Whichever you choose, make sure it is rated for outdoor use.

Extra storage. Extra drawers, bins or cabinets can hold everything from grilling tools, dishes and serving pieces to glasses, cups and silverware.

A spot for trash and recycling makes cleanup much easier. A paper towel holder can be included on the countertop or set into a door. If you’re a dedicated griller, tuck a small pantry area or a spice rack into your design.

Tying It All Together

Once you’ve picked out the appliances and decided on the other elements that will form the core of your outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to pull everything together. That’s where countertops and bases or cabinets come into play. The counters and base material will also define the look and feel of the space.

Countertops. There are a number of material options for topping your outdoor kitchen. Stone is the most popular choice for outdoor countertops. It’s durable, beautiful and can handle spills, stains and the outdoor elements. A wood countertop fits in with almost any style, from traditional to contemporary, and its organic vibe complements most landscape designs. Concrete has become a favorite material for outdoor countertops, especially when paired with a contemporary landscape design. Tile is another countertop choice.

Bases and base cabinets. These are the backbone of your kitchen, defining the overall space, housing the grill or grills, holding the cabinets, drawers, refrigerators and sinks. Bases and base cabinets have to be hardworking. You’ll be preparing and serving food on them and possibly using them as a dining space, so you’ll need materials that can stand up to hard use, spills and the elements.

A professional will fabricate the basic structure, including adding necessary insulation and flameproofing materials. The next step will be adding the features you want and paneling them. Finishes can range from brick and wood to stucco, concrete, metals and natural materials such as bamboo.

Lighting. An outdoor kitchen, especially if combined with dining or seating areas, invites you to linger outside into the evening. Having the right lighting will make all the difference.

You want the grill and food prep areas to be well-lit. Walkways and transition areas may not need as much direct lighting, but there should be enough to make moving around safe and easy. A softer, more subtle ambient light in dining and gathering areas can help set the mood while allowing you to enjoy the changing natural light from twilight on.

While you can make do with string lights or a wall-mounted sconce or two and a task light next to the grill, putting together a lighting plan when designing the kitchen will increase the usability of your space.

Bonus: A sound system can add musical ambience to your outdoor gatherings and can be included in the electrical plan. You might even want to consider an outdoor-safe television for watching the game or having a movie night.

Heating and cooling. The temperature is not always ideal outdoors. That’s where fans and outdoor heaters come in. Fans, especially ceiling fans if your patio is under a roof, will circulate air and help keep spaces comfortable when the weather is hot. That same air circulation can also come into play when it’s cooler outside. Reversing the fan blades from a summer setting will draw the cold air up.

Strategically placed outdoor heaters, whether you choose a standalone or overhead version, can warm up a surprisingly large area. They can run on propane, natural gas or electricity, as long as the latter is rated for outdoor use. Most outdoor heaters will warm up an area 20 feet in diameter in an uncovered space. Those that run on propane tanks can be set where it is safe, and some electric heaters can be plugged into an outdoor outlet.

You will need a professional to install most electric outdoor heaters, especially if you want to tie them into your natural gas line.

Roofs and overhead structures. Having something overhead will protect both the kitchen area and guests from the elements, whether it’s harsh sunlight, rain, weather extremes or snow. This, in turn, will mean you can use your outdoor kitchen far more often. As a design feature, it sets the kitchen off as a separate space from both the house and the rest of the landscape. It allows you to easily add amenities like overhead lighting, heating and cooling.

A roof or overhead structure also has some drawbacks. An overhead structure is not recommended above many grills, for safety reasons. If you do have one, be sure you have the appropriate ventilation around the grill and an overhead vent installed. A patio roof can also close off the space unnecessarily.

A fully covered space is both more expensive and permanent, but it will ensure that both your kitchen and those using it are out of the elements. It will easily allow you to add in overhead lighting, heating and fans.

A partial roof can give you some shelter while still allowing you to keep the grill and other cooking areas safely ventilated and away from flammable materials.

A pergola adds the simplest overhead structure. This allows you to define the area without fully enclosing it. It also allows you to add other amenities such as lights, heaters and fans. You can build on this with an open roof system of permanent or adjustable slats or louvers. This will add some sun protection as well as create a dappled light that helps temper the glare of the sun.

Other Considerations for Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

Permitting and codes. Building an outdoor kitchen will almost always require permits, including for electrical and plumbing work. Codes can vary widely, so you’ll need to understand what your locale requires. A professional can help with this as well as with obtaining the actual permits.

Be sure to also check for any requirements or restrictions if you are part of a homeowners association.

When to do this project. Adding a hardscaping feature to your landscape is usually best done during good weather from spring to fall. Fortunately, you can get started with the beginning steps before you’re ready to start building. Use the latter months of fall, your winter downtime and early spring to get the plans in place.

How long it will take. Putting in an outdoor kitchen will not be a quick process. You will need to have plans and get permits, order the materials and appliances and plan for having features such as countertops fabricated. You may also need to have a concrete pad or other base installed before construction can begin. That can take several weeks to get into place.

Once things are ready to go, the actual installation of a very basic outdoor kitchen may only take a week or slightly more to install. If your project is more complex, plan on a longer build time. “You may have up to four trades working at one time,” Algozzini says. Scheduling different pros can also take some time.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/what-to-know-about-adding-an-outdoor-kitchen-stsetivw-vs~144980221

5 New Kitchens With Island Design Ideas

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Basic rectangular shapes dominate kitchen island designs. While there’s nothing wrong with the straightforward approach, it might not be the right setup for your space or lifestyle. To think outside the box — or rectangle — consider these five kitchens with personalized island designs that enhance dining, seating and style.

1. Dropped-Down Dining

Designer: Anastasia Harrison of AHD & Co
Location: Warren, New Jersey
Size: 506 square feet (47 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners envisioned a kitchen that would serve as both a gathering place and a hardworking hub for daily life,” designer Anastasia Harrison says. “At the heart of the design is a generously sized island that comfortably seats a crowd — ideal for casual meals, conversation and entertaining. The layout was thoughtfully designed to ensure an easy flow throughout the space, with dual sinks and designated prep zones that facilitate multiple people cooking or cleaning at once. Bathed in natural light, the kitchen features classic, durable materials chosen for their timeless appeal and ability to withstand the rhythms of everyday use.”

Kitchen island. “A key feature of the kitchen is the custom double-layer island with seating for eight that brings both function and visual dimension to the space,” Harrison says. “The lowered section was designed with younger family members in mind — perfect for casual meals, homework or simply being part of the action. This thoughtful adjustment also makes the space feel more relaxed and welcoming.”

Harrison uses Houzz Pro software to manage her business and projects. “Our clients lived halfway across the world in Taiwan during this project, and using Houzz to manage the process was extremely helpful in keeping everyone on the same page,” Harrison says. “We used Houzz Pro to share mood boards, design selections, invoicing and proposals, all of which allowed for quick feedback and easy approvals despite the time difference. The clients frequently commented on how seamless and organized the process felt and how confident they were in the decisions made from afar. Houzz Pro helped bridge the distance and made a complex international renovation feel surprisingly easy.”

Other special features. “A full-height quartzite (Patagonia Green) backsplash with dramatic veining creates a stunning backdrop, tying the whole room together with elegance and ease,” Harrison says. “Designed with a family of enthusiastic home cooks in mind, the kitchen features multiple work zones, dual sinks and generous counter space, making it easy for everyone to cook, prep and clean up together.”

“Uh-oh” moment. “We were set on using Patagonia quartzite for both the countertops and the full-height backsplash, but with such a bold, dynamic stone, matching the patterns across multiple surfaces was no small feat,” Harrison says. “The veining is incredibly distinctive, and we knew any mismatch would be obvious. We ended up securing five slabs to give us the flexibility we needed for a cohesive layout. Even with that, templating was a challenge. It took careful planning and layout work to ensure the most dramatic sections aligned perfectly across the island and backsplash. The result is seamless and showstopping, but there was definitely a moment of, ‘How are we going to pull this off?’ in the middle of it all.”

2. Face-to-Face Seating

Designer: Janelle Patton of Lark Interiors
Location: Coppell, Texas

Homeowners’ request. “This kitchen was originally about half the size and had a terrible layout — you had to walk around the island to get to the fridge,” designer Janelle Patton says. “It was also dark and dated. Natural light was a huge priority for this client, so we added windows and chose light, bright materials.”

Kitchen island. “We opted for tabletop-style bar seating so the family could face each other as they ate,” Patton says. “We made the countertop out of sealed white oak so that it would be extra durable. This also allowed us to avoid having a seam in the stone on the island.”

Other special features. “The blue French Lacanche range was the most special element in this space,” Patton says. “It is a bit of a splurge but allows for two double ovens and endless burner options. Plus, the color has a huge visual impact on the space. The cabinets are painted Benjamin Moore Hushed Hue and the white oak island was custom-stained. The countertops are Le Blanc quartzite so that the owner didn’t have to worry about etching and staining.” A white oak beam detail frames the window area. The backsplash is creamy white zellige tile.

Designer tip. “You can put a range in front of a window!” Patton says. “Natural light was a huge priority in this project, and using an in-ceiling vent hood allowed us to add an additional window behind the range.”

3. Built-In Banquette

Designer: Sydney Foley and Emma Legg of Kindred Interior Studios
Location: Summerfield, North Carolina
Size: 350 square feet (33 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “Our clients wanted to update their early ’00s Tuscan kitchen into a lighter, brighter space that aligned with their country chic aesthetic,” designer Sydney Foley says. “We did not need to change the layout very much and worked with most of their existing cabinets. A lot of their complaints and elements that dated the space were cosmetic. The kitchen, on the back of the house, received little to no sun and felt gloomy on even the sunniest days. Paint and new countertops played a large role in lightening the space.”

Kitchen island. “With all the angles of the room, the existing island shape worked and we were able to maximize our clients’ budget by keeping it,” designer Emma Legg says. “To give it a new look, we opted for replacing mesh doors with solid ones and smoothing out clipped corners. A coat of fresh blue paint (Whirlpool by Sherwin-Williams) and white quartz countertops gave it a whole new identity. Our clients have a large family — five kids — and the breakfast room was generally too small to fit everyone. They loved the flexibility of having a tall, round pub-style table in the main kitchen area. We freshened up their old-world-style furnishings and replaced dated pendant light fixtures with ones more appropriately scaled that speak more to their French country style.”

Other special features. “We replaced the contemporary stainless steel hood for an oak one that adds a focal point, texture and warmth to the new design,” Foley says. “Another feature that makes this kitchen stand out is our use of color in the backsplash and island. We intentionally layered elements like the hood, backsplash, lighting and hardware to keep the space from being a trendy white-on-white kitchen.”

Designer tip. “Use what you have to your advantage,” Legg says. “When our budget shrank … we had to keep the tumbled stone tile floors, which weren’t our first choice. Instead of ignoring them, we incorporated additional distressed layers such as the light fixtures and burnished brass hardware. We also brought in warm tones with the wood hood and brass plumbing fixtures to make it feel cohesive.”

Backsplash tile: Boston Topacio, 2 by 10 inches, Soho Studio; cabinet, ceiling and trim paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore; wall paint: Neutral Ground (kitchen) and Smoky Blue (sunroom), Sherwin-Williams

4. Eat-In Dining and Display Space

Designer: Lea Litvin of LO Design, in collaboration with Chris Greenawalt of Bunker Workshop
Location: Philadelphia
Size: 280 square feet (26 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “The home is part of a development of two houses that both have distinctive L-shaped layouts, incorporating outdoor space into the floor plan of the main living spaces,” architect Lea Litvin says. “The design of the kitchen was intended to reflect the light, airy nature of the south-facing home, carrying a minimalist, luxurious aesthetic through.”

Kitchen island. “An eat-in kitchen was important for daily functionality, and our goal with this configuration was to place some casual seating that opens to the deck to emphasize the indoor-outdoor nature of this space, which is ideal for entertaining,” Litvin says. “The glass cabinet was a unique touch designed to create an area for display and storage of serving pieces and glassware.”

Other special features. “The stunning Calacatta Vagli marble countertops, backsplash and frame detail set this palette apart for both its elegance and warmth,” Litvin says. “The form of the island is accented by the framed cooking station and dual-tone cabinets beyond, unifying the two elements. Across from the patio, a sleek paneled refrigerator sits flush with the rest of the cabinetry, which craftily conceals a walk-in pantry and powder room.” The cabinets and flooring are white oak.

Designer tip. “By extending the island toward the refrigerator, we not only expanded the surface area in the kitchen but also completed the work triangle — vastly improving the kitchen’s functionality for daily use,” Litvin says.

“Uh-oh” moment. “There were a few moments during the kitchen fabrication and installation process where we weren’t sure how the flush pantry wall would turn out,” Litvin says. “But we remained patient with the millwork shop as everything was being calibrated, returned to the shop for adjustments and brought it back again. The result was worth the wait.”

5. Rounded Ends

Designers: Josh Ehr, Eileen Wetzel and Beth Miller of Studio Ehr
Location: Mequon, Wisconsin
Size: 340 square feet (32 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowner wanted a functional kitchen for entertaining,” designer Josh Ehr says. “They asked for a large island and a connection to the backyard, which is adjacent to a beautiful wooded area. In order to give the kitchen adequate space, we combined three separate rooms that had been small, angular spaces with limited functionality. By taking down some walls and reshaping the space, we were able to create a new room that feels open and spacious.”

Kitchen island. “This 1950s midcentury home has a lot of irregular geometry with some sharp angles,” Ehr says. “The island adds soft curves that mediate that angularity and add a sense of flow. The rounded ends allow for conversational seating arrangements, and the extra-large sink layers on a modern functionality. Complementary details such as the fluted walnut paneling, rounded hardware and honed stone countertop enhance the softness.”

Other special features. Custom walnut cabinetry. White oak flooring. Taj Mahal quartzite countertops and backsplash. Large workstation sink.

Designer tip. “I recommend highlighting one key feature of a room,” Ehr says. “In this case, we wanted the island to be the prominent feature. Low ceilings, minimal lighting and an unembellished range hood all allowed for the island to take center stage.”

Paint: Creamy, Sherwin-Williams

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-new-kitchens-with-island-design-ideas-stsetivw-vs~181467780

Starter Homes: Are They a Thing of the Past?

Thu, 08 May 2025 16:00:00 GMT

It used to be, almost everyone’s first home was considered a “starter home.” But between a lack of housing supply, the rising cost of housing, and other economic challenges, is the concept of starter homes even a thing in Canada anymore?

What is a starter home?

Traditionally, starter homes were the first homes most people bought when they were just beginning to build their lives, careers, and families.

Starter homes were usually small, modest, and relatively inexpensive properties that were often located in less sought-after neighbourhoods or needed a few renovations. While they may not have been anyone’s idea of a “forever home,” starter homes were an affordable way for first-time buyers to get a foot on the property ladder, and start building equity without having to save for decades first to afford the down payment.

When it comes to starter homes, think less than 2,000 square feet, liveable, but a DIYer’s canvas of possibility. They became popular following the Second World War when, in 1946, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) was created. The CMHC helped make homeownership more attainable for Canadians by administering housing programs, offering loans and overseeing social housing, and the boom of single-family homes began (think strawberry box houses).

What’s caused a change in starter homes?

Today, however, Canada’s affordability crisis coupled with a lack of supply has dramatically changed both the kind and price of properties that would’ve once been considered starter homes.

In the 15 years between 2006 and 2021, the average price of a home in Canada more than doubled in value. At the same time, rents in much of the country have also risen significantly, hampering the ability of many renters to save for that all-important down payment.

“The traditional idea of a starter home—a small, affordable property that a buyer stays in for a few years before moving up—has definitely shifted,” says Mike Dirks, REALTOR® and owner of Dirks Real Estate, and Director of Education at Royal LePage Westside in Vancouver, British Columbia.

“With rising prices, higher interest rates and more stringent mortgage qualifications, many first-time buyers are either stretching to buy something they can stay in longer, or holding off on purchasing altogether,” he explains.

What do starter homes look like today?

One outcome of the growing disparity between incomes and home prices is that both starter homes and first-time buyers look very different today than they did a few generations ago.

“A starter home used to be a modest, entry-level property, often a small, detached house,” Dirks says. “Today, the first purchase is often a condo or townhouse, especially in urban areas where detached homes are out of reach.”

According to Christine Cowern, a REALTOR® and Managing Partner of The Christine Cowern Real Estate Team in Toronto, Ontario, starter homes today are both smaller and located farther afield than most buyers would have accepted a decade or two ago.

“Starter homes used to be semi-detached or detached homes that were centrally located,” she explains. “Now, people are having to move outside the large city centres and farther away from work, because urban areas are too expensive. Or if they need to remain in the city, they’re buying condos or townhouses, which are [generally] more affordable.”

What are first-time home buyers looking for now?

Because they have to save for so much longer to afford a down payment, today’s first-time buyers are also typically older and may have larger families than in the past.

Between 1977 and 2000, for example, public records show the average age of a first-time home buyer in Canada increased from 32 to 36 years old. Today, some first-time buyers are waiting until they’re well into their 40s or until they receive an inheritance to buy their first home.

As a result, many traditional starter properties don’t offer enough space for today’s older buyers and their families. In addition, because their budgets are already stretched to the limit, those buyers who do manage to find a home they can afford will often stay there much longer before they can build enough equity to move up the property ladder.

“Many buyers today see their first home as a long-term investment,” Dirks says. “In the past, buyers would get into anything they could afford, assuming they’d trade up in a few years. Now, many buyers want extra bedrooms for future kids or work-from-home setups, outdoor space and proximity to transit, knowing they may be in this home for 10-plus years instead of five.”

According to Crystal Tost—Managing Partner of the Calgary Listings Group in Calgary, Alberta, and a REALTOR® with more than 25 years of experience—price is the main factor driving what most buyers are looking for.

“When I started in real estate in 1997, most first-time buyers were in their 20s, and they were happy just to get into a detached home—even if it had very basic finishes,” she explains. “They saw it as a stepping stone, something they could upgrade over time.

“Back then, a new build in a suburban community could be purchased for around $120,000. Today, those same homes are selling in the $600,000 range,” she adds. “Because of this, there’s been a change in expectations—many buyers today want higher-quality finishes and upgrades from the start, likely because of how much they’re paying compared to past generations.”

Renting vs. buying: what’s more realistic?

In the end, the answer as to rent or buy comes down to your personal financial situation. You’ll need to weigh factors such as job security and whether or not you want to lay roots somewhere for the foreseeable future.

Cowern notes that for many Canadians, renting has become a new form of starter home.

“Years ago, owning a home was considered a higher milestone of financial success and adulthood than it is today,” she says. “With the upward trajectory of prices we’ve seen over the last few years, renting is almost a prelude to homeownership now, whereas in the past, people would go right into buying a home and skip renting altogether.”

According to Tost, another big change is that most first-time buyers who want to enter the housing market simply can’t afford to do it alone.

“Many are purchasing with a spouse, a partner or even a parent,” she says. “A lot of them feel discouraged, especially those who dream of owning a detached home but find it out of reach.”

Getting into the Canadian housing market

There is some good news, however. The combination of lower interest rates and recent changes to the federal rules governing mortgages could make it easier for first-time home buyers to enter the market over the next few years.

Plus, there are still a few things buyers can do to help make buying their first home more affordable.

Make a firm distinction between the things you want and things you need in a home.
Open your search to include condos, apartments, and townhouses instead of only traditional detached single-family homes.
Consider buying a fixer-upper or a smaller property than you’d ideally prefer, or look for desirable homes in lesser-known neighbourhoods that are farther from the city centre.
If your circumstances allow, consider moving to a town or city where housing is relatively more affordable.
If you do find a home you can afford, consider staying there for a few years longer to let your equity grow before you move up the property ladder.

Lastly—but perhaps most importantly—if you’re a first-time home buyer (or hope to become one), ask a REALTOR® for guidance! In addition to answering any questions you may have, a REALTOR® can walk you through all the options that are available in your price range, and help you find a home that fits your needs wherever you are in your real estate journey.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/starter-homes-are-they-a-thing-of-the-past/38418/1362

The Unmarried Couple’s Guide to Buying a House Together

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Waiting until you’re married to buy a home together isn’t necessarily standard practice for couples anymore. These days, almost a quarter of long-term relationships are common law, according to Statistics Canada. In fact, Canada has the highest share of couples living together without being married, driven by Quebec, where 43% of couples have common law unions.

Whatever the reason, buying something together is a big decision, and it’s important for couples to be ready for the financial and emotional commitment—and to be aware of some considerations unique to unmarried buyers (because there are definite differences in the eyes of the law.)

We talked to a REALTOR®, a mortgage agent, and two couples’ therapists who all shared helpful insights for unmarried couples thinking about buying a home together. All four of our experts agreed that couples must:

be emotionally ready;
be financially aware;
understand legal considerations; and
be able to talk everything through before making the decision to buy.

Be transparent about your financial situation

Money is one of the biggest sources of conflict in a relationship, says Emily LeMoine, a registered psychotherapist at Grey Couch Counselling. Before making any big decisions, it’s crucial to have an honest conversation about your full financial pictures: be transparent about your income, debt, credit scores, and financial goals. Do the two of you have similar savings priorities and spending habits? How much of a strain will financial stress put on your relationship?

Not being up front about debt or a less-than-stellar credit history will only result in conflict—especially since applying for a mortgage means any issues will come to light pretty quickly.

“If anyone has a poor credit score or a lot of debt, it will come out in the mortgage application,” says Amanda Dindayal, mortgage agent, financial coach, and owner of RedPocketBook.ca. “All assets and debts need to be disclosed, so being honest about money now can reduce stress later.”

She also says whoever is on title has to be on the mortgage application, so if either partner has a credit score that can impact their eligibility, it’s good to know that going in. Plus, if one of the partners is self-employed, it’s important to ensure all their taxes are up to date and they can show proof of consistent income.

Discuss how you’ll split living expenses

If you feel you’re ready to take the financial leap of buying a property together, it’s time for part two of the financial conversation: the specifics of how you’ll pay for the home and cover ongoing costs. Will you split the down payment and mortgage 50/50 or come up with a different arrangement? It’s up to you, but whatever you decide, be sure to document everything so you’re on the same page.

“Couples should decide in advance how they will split the down payment, mortgage payments, maintenance costs, and other expenses,” says LeMoine. “A joint account for shared costs can work well, but it’s important to set clear guidelines before you buy, especially if you have significantly different salaries or have different priorities when it comes to purchases, renovations, and other big expenses. If one partner contributes more, documenting it can help prevent misunderstandings down the line.”

Have conversations about future financial goals

“A home is a big financial investment, but it’s also a significant emotional one,” says Ria Gulati, who’s also a registered psychotherapist at Grey Couch. “Explore everything from why you want to buy to how ready you both really feel. It isn’t uncommon to find that one partner is a lot more gung-ho about the idea than the other.”

She recommends you also discuss your expectations for the future: while you may or may not be planning to get married, it’s important to talk about other things that will impact your future.

Do you plan to have kids?
What are your career trajectories?
Do you want to stay in the same place long-term?
What would happen if one of you lost your job, got sick, or if your relationship ended?

Most couples don’t want to talk about money or the negative stuff like what happens if they break up—that’s understandable. They want to remain optimistic, but avoiding the negative now can mean unspoken differences and expectations, and a bunch of unpleasant conflict down the road. It’s crucial to make sure you’re on the same page from the beginning.

Couples who have effective, consistent, open conversations about their emotional needs are more equipped to purchase a home together than those who avoid, suppress, or withhold emotional content, says LeMoine.

Should you put both names on the home title?

You might think laws around common-law relationships would entitle both partners to half if there’s a split, but that’s actually not the case. Common law couples aren’t automatically required to split property acquired during their relationship. Being listed on the title is the only way to ensure legal ownership of the home.

So what happens if, say, one person covered the whole down payment or paid more of the mortgage? If there’s no agreement in place from the start, things can get messy.

“I would encourage an unmarried couple buying a property together to discuss each person’s financial contributions,” says Julian Kashani, a broker and REALTOR® at Property.ca. “They should draw up a contract based on these financial responsibilities and include future buyout terms.”

He recommends unmarried couples go with one of two options:

A joint tenancy, where both own the property 50/50.
For unequal ownership shares, a Tenants in Common agreement allows percentages to be specified.

Talk to a lawyer about your joint homeownership

Nobody plans to split up, but it’s prudent to protect yourself in case things don’t go according to plan. A legal professional can help you navigate the complexities of property ownership, draft a fair cohabitation agreement, and ensure both partners’ rights are protected.

Find a REALTOR® you both like

Are you working with a real estate professional who represents both of your interests? If one partner has a close connection with a REALTOR® who’s a friend or family member, the other partner might feel left out, resentful, or as though their needs and wants won’t be taken into consideration. It’s a good idea to select someone neutral who prioritizes both partners’ interests. Ask friends and family for a recommendation—or search REALTOR.ca for a REALTOR® specializing in your area.

Buying a home together is a wonderful milestone in your relationship. To ensure the purchase is one that works for both of you now and in the long term, thoughtful planning and plenty of open communication will help ensure you end up in a place that works well for both of you.

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/the-unmarried-couples-guide-to-buying-a-house-together/8142/1363

How to Get Your Ceiling Paint Color Right

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:01:00 GMT

There’s definitely not just one way to paint a ceiling. Even if you favor classic white, there are as many subtle shades to choose from for your ceiling as there are for your walls. And if you overlook these options, you might make a mistake that stays with you for years. Here are some tips for choosing a ceiling paint color that will best coordinate with your look, whether you want your ceiling to blend in, coordinate or contrast with your walls.

1. White Ceilings

A crisp white paint is probably the most popular option for ceilings, and it’s not a bad safe-bet choice. But painting your ceiling white isn’t always as simple as buying a few cans of untinted paint and calling it a day.

In spaces that have bright white walls with no particular undertones, a similarly untinted white for the ceiling can work well to give a sense of gallery-like seamlessness.

However, if your walls aren’t pure white, you should consider how the tones of the two surfaces will look next to each other — and whether your ceiling paint should be matching, contrasting or somewhere in between.

2. Ceilings That Match the Walls

If you’re using an off-white or an otherwise very pale color for the walls, the simplest solution is to use the same color on the ceiling. In this example, you can see that the walls and ceiling are all the same white shade, carrying just a hint of creamy warmth.

Using one shade for the walls and the ceiling deemphasizes the points where different surfaces meet and puts the visual emphasis on other features such as furnishings, architectural elements and art.

This holds true even if there are bright white moldings breaking up the walls and ceiling. The ceiling still blends away and the eye is better able to take in the moldings.

Overall, using the same pale neutral for the walls and ceiling gives a sense of serenity and welcome, especially when used throughout the entire home for a sense of continuity.

However, the richer the color you choose, the more it can begin to shrink the space when applied to the ceiling. If you have a tall room or want the space to feel cozy, this isn’t a bad thing. But if you’re going darker with your walls or your wall hue isn’t so neutral, you may want to consider some other options.

3. Ceilings Tinted to Coordinate With the Walls

Whether you’re using a rich neutral or a bright hue, you can make sure the ceiling color coordinates well by tinting it with just a little bit of the wall color. For example, if you’re using a rich buttery cream for the walls, choose a ceiling white that’s tinted with just a bit of the same yellowy undertone.

There are a few ways to approach this. One is to literally pour a little bit of the wall paint into a can of white ceiling paint, stir thoroughly and use this as the new tinted shade.

However, that method has a few issues. One, you can’t easily predict how the shade will turn out. On first try it will likely be either barely tinted or too dark, and it can take a lot of remixing to get it right.

Second, you’ll never be able to get a second can of the exact same shade, either for future touch-ups or because you ran out of the first batch partway through painting.

The better option is to choose a pale color from the same family, often the palest option on the same paint chip. If you choose what’s essentially just a much lighter shade of your wall hue, you’ll be virtually guaranteed to get a coordinated look.

For bold hues, you may not be able to simply choose an off-white from the same paint chip. But you can speak with a design professional or knowledgeable paint store associate to create a custom formulation based on the tints going into your wall hue.

This way the formula will be recorded and you’ll be able to re-create it. And if you swatch it at home and decide it doesn’t work, it can be adjusted much more easily than a DIY concoction.

4. Ceilings Darker Than the Walls

The idea of tinting paints to match can work in reverse as well. In this dining room, the dark paint treatment in the ceiling cove highlights the architecture and makes the room feel more intimate.

But this accent shade wasn’t chosen at random. The hue carries similar tones to ones found in the wallpaper, as well as the white trim color of the doors and moldings. The slightly warm trim shade was likely chosen from the same color family as the ceiling, at the same time, so no features subtly clash.

Contrasting the walls in darkness, but not in color undertone, creates a very livable effect. For this reason, a very neutral gray is a great choice for anyone who likes the idea of doing a dark ceiling but doesn’t want to take a big color risk (especially in an area that isn’t as easy to repaint as a typical wall).

Unfortunately, a truly neutral gray can be tricky to choose in the store. Often colors will look a bit purple, blue or brown when applied at home. For this reason, it’s always wise to choose a few options and swatch them at home, or order oversized swatches to see the color at a better scale before committing.

5. Ceilings as a True Accent

Of course, sometimes a ceiling can be beautiful in a hue that completely contrasts with the walls. The entryway shown here has an icy pale blue in the ceiling coves and a somewhat warm white for the walls, so they certainly don’t match. Coordinating colors like this isn’t an exact science, but you can use several approaches to help.

One is to swatch all of the colors being considered together as stripes on a long plank to see how shades look next to each other. Starting with a recommended pairing from a paint line can help, but seeing the hues at home in your ambient light will reveal how they look together in real life.

A second tip is to pick up the ceiling hue from another accent you already have. Here, the ceiling color repeats one of the colors in the wall treatment, which then is also used for the blank wall.

You could also look to fabrics or art to find a shade to replicate. Just keep in mind that this hue will be in an attention-grabbing spot when on the ceiling, so choose the most neutral shade in the inspiration piece to keep the room looking put-together rather than loud.

6. Crisp White Ceilings for Contrast

While we’re talking about contrasting ceilings, let’s go back to where we started: pure white. In spaces with a lot of fresh white in other elements, such as white linens or other accents, a pure white ceiling can be perfect, despite not “matching” the wall tone.

In this example, you can see how the faintly beige wall and bright white ceiling contrast. This makes the wall color stand out more and gives a sense of freshness that works well to bring a contemporary edge to this traditional townhouse.

A purely white ceiling works well in a space that has a mix of both warm and cool neutrals (like the ruddy brick, warm wood and cool gray sofa upholstery shown here). The white acts as a middle ground between the diverse tones.

3 Questions to Ask Your Design Professional Before You Paint

What finish of paint will you use? (There are options that can highlight, others that can mask, so this is important to know.)
Will you also paint the crown molding or ceiling medallions? If yes, what color or finish?
What is the end desired feel you wish to give my space? (Cozy means a darker color. Airy generally means a lighter color.)

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-get-your-ceiling-paint-color-right-stsetivw-vs~111275019

How Our Interiors Affect Our Moods and Well-Being

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 22:47:00 GMT

We often strive to decorate, organize, and make our space our own, but we don’t usually consider the impact design elements, layout, or lighting have on our moods and well-being.

We asked two experts to share insights on how your home’s interior affects wellness, and tips for small, but effective ways people can adjust their existing spaces to improve them.

Keep flow in mind when you design your living space

Colin Ellard, PhD, a cognitive neuroscientist and design consultant at the University of Waterloo, studies neuro architecture and architectural psychology. He says environmental psychologists have looked at home interiors and their geometry to understand how the designs of spaces at every scale influence how we feel and what we do.

“The way a space is laid out, and the way the areas of a space are connected to one another, will have an influence on how much time we spend in them and what kinds of things we do in those spaces,” says Ellard.

One concept researchers have discovered is the ideal locations in a space are those from which we can see and not be seen.

“In evolutionary history, people preferred those kinds of spaces for pragmatic reasons like avoiding predators and being able to see where there’s food in a landscape. In the interior of your home, it’s more about that ephemeral feeling of comfort—being in a space where we feel the protective arms of something behind us where we can look out over the space and see what’s going on,” he explains.

For example, you typically wouldn’t put a comfy armchair smack in the middle of your living room; you’d put it to the side.

Mastalic suggests creating a cozy nook by placing an armchair, standing lamp, and potted plant in an unused corner.

Annabelle Mastalic, principal designer and founder of ADM InteriDesign, Design Trends, Interior Designers in Calgary, Alberta, takes a holistic approach when working with clients. A former nurse, Mastalic assessed patients by looking at everything impacting their physical, emotional, mental, and social health. Now, she brings those skills to her wellness design work.

“There are so many unconscious things happening when we’re scanning the environment; we don’t think about it, but it’s how the body’s responding,” says Mastalic. “Colour, the layout of the space, how much natural light is coming in—all those things are affecting the body.”

Open-plan living, which tops many home buyers’ wish lists, can be a love-hate concept, notes Ellard.

“There are good reasons for wanting to have an open plan: young parents like to be able to see where their kids are all the time, and it’s very nice for entertaining. But it’s not for everyone,” he says. “Depending on your personality type, you might rather have a space that has some cozy nooks and quiet refuges. The ideal is to have the ability to move from an area where they can see lots of areas of their homes, to quiet locations of refuge.”

Even homeowners who love the idea of open plan living need zones, adds Mastalic.

“If you’re walking into a home and you want it to feel welcoming, safe, and comfortable, clearly defined spaces in open layouts are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing and easier to navigate,” she explains.

Pro tips:

Ellard suggests creating a nook with privacy screens, area rugs, or lighting to suit your needs.
Mastalic says create a cozy corner by adding a custom window seat where you can relax with a book, or placing an armchair, standing lamp, and potted plant in an unused corner.

Select design elements that promote wellness

Materials, textures, patterns, and colours will all evoke a certain feeling and mood in that space, says Mastalic. She also suggests limiting your palette to one or two colours and adding textural elements with rugs and throws to create depth and interest.

“In a bedroom, for example, if the desired feeling is relaxation, tranquility and peace, I’m going to choose colours that are more subdued and calming versus something that’s energetic like orange or red,” she explains.

While warmer colours are known to promote energy, that depends on how you pair them, notes Mastalic.

“If you’re pairing complementary colours like blue and orange, that will feel a lot more vibrant and energetic versus colours that are right beside each other on the colour wheels. Blue and green will feel a little bit more subdued if you pair them together versus colours that are opposite of each other,” she says.

A fresh coat of paint in a mood-boosting hue—even just on one wall—instantly changes a space, she adds.

“Painting the ceiling adds another dimension; I just did a project with a client where we painted the ceiling the same colour as the walls. It looked stunning and automatically made the room feel cozy,” she says.

Soft bedding and blackout curtains can help improve your sleep and overall health.

“The heavier the blanket, the cozier it feels; the brain’s unconsciously processing that this feels safe,” she says.

Pro tips: If you want serenity, soft greys and muted neutrals reduce visual distractions, allowing your eyes to rest. Incorporating soft textiles like an upholstered headboard or fur blankets make spaces feel more comforting, inviting, and cozy.

Clear out clutter to restore calm

Piles of stuff spread out around a home can cause stress and create visual distractions, says Mastalic.

“Get rid of anything you don’t need. Then, look at creative storage solutions like built-ins and little nooks where you can include shelving—anything that would make a space feel more organized,” she explains.

Storage solutions that combine open and closed shelving, like built-in units, can help declutter our space and give our brains a chance to rest.

Because excess items remind us of tasks we need to tackle, donating unused items, organizing things we use daily, and stashing most things out of sight gives our brains a chance to rest and refocus.

Pro tip: Use a mixture of closed storage with cabinet doors and open shelving above. Invest in furniture items that do double duty, such as an ottoman with a lid that can hold toys or side tables with drawers and shelving.

Bring in elements of nature

Scientific evidence shows that biophilic design—bringing the outdoors in—significantly affects our moods, says Ellard.

“One of the earliest pivotal studies in this area was conducted in a hospital. In the experiment, the scientist compared recovery in surgical patients who had a view of nature from their windows as opposed to those who didn’t. And there were differences between the two groups in terms of the time to discharge and the number of requests for pain relief,” he says.

Since then, there’s been a movement about the importance of natural elements at every scale – from urban environments to home interiors, adds Ellard, who advises incorporating the patterns of nature into our spaces.

“You don’t have to build a rainforest in your living room; a few house plants will work, and a view from a window is fantastic,” he explains. “Even if you have objects of art that incorporate patterns of nature, like landscape paintings, there’s some evidence it would induce a measurable effect not just on your mood but on your health.”

According to a study conducted in 2019 entitled, “Effects of Biophilic Indoor Environment on Stress and Anxiety Recovery: A between-Subjects Experiment in Virtual Reality,” biophilic design can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and lower your heart rate.

Sheer drapes, natural textures, wooden elements, and houseplants by the window can all help boost your mood, according to Mastalic and Ellard.

Increasing natural light, highlighting nature views and choosing natural materials like wood, stone, cotton, and linen, also invoke a healthy connection to nature, says Mastalic.

“Try to maximize the view of a window: Instead of heavy drapery covering a window, use sheers. If furniture is blocking part of the window, move it out of the way,” she suggests. “Wallpaper or even prints in artwork that mimic nature is going to have a boosting effect because we’re intuitively more responsive to things found in nature.”

Pro tips: Replace heavy drapery with sheers to allow more light to filter through. Potted plants, fresh flowers, or even textural branches in a vase can all boost wellbeing.

Tweaking our physical surroundings can improve our overall mental and physical wellness, creating pleasing spaces that help us relax, focus or recharge. With a little creativity, you can incorporate these ideas to make the most of your home.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/how-our-interiors-affect-our-moods-and-well-being/38075/1367

How to Buy a Quality Sofa That Will Last

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

A sofa is one of the biggest furniture investments you’ll make — and one of the most permanent. Even if you’re just buying one for a temporary fix, it’ll eventually get demoted from the living room to the family room to the basement and, finally, the dorm. Before you know it, a decade or more has passed, and that impulse purchase has become part of your life. So give some thought to it before you buy. Then buy the best-quality sofa that you can afford. Your purchase will be amortized over many years.

How to Spot a Quality Sofa

Test its sturdiness. Quality sofas should feel solid and heavy. Flop around on one to test its sturdiness and then lift it up by the corner and shake it a bit. If it feels light or wobbly, take a pass. Look for a frame made from a kiln-dried hardwood such as oak, alder, birch, maple or, alternatively, high-quality hardwood plywood or marine plywood. Eight-way, hand-tied springs are a hallmark of fine furniture, but sinuous S-shaped springs can provide nearly as much comfort. Drop-in coil springs are a less costly alternative.

Consider the cushions. Most cushions have a core of polyurethane foam; the denser the foam, the heavier it is and the longer it will last. In the cheapest furniture, the cushion is filled with just the polyurethane foam core. In better furniture, the core is wrapped with Dacron batting. Higher-quality options include poly-down cushions, which have down mixed with the batting; spring-down cushions, which feature a core of springs surrounded by foam and feathers; and all down, which is all feathers (and all work, so try to avoid this.)

Check the joints and frame. The best sofas have joints that are double doweled and fitted with corner blocks that are both glued and screwed (not stapled) into place. Quality pieces have legs that are part of the frame, not just attached to it (although removable feet do make it easier to get items through doorways).

How to Make It Work With Your Room

Complement the decor. If your interior is traditional, look for a sofa with rolled arms, a contoured back, skirting or tufted cushions. Contemporary sofas tend to have cleaner lines, fewer flourishes and understated upholstery.

Get the right size. Consider the proportions of the room and determine what height, length and depth of sofa would look best in the space. If you’re uncertain, mock up a footprint on the floor using masking tape or blue painter’s tape. Or consider “building” a sofa out of empty boxes — then live with it for a few days to see how it feels.

Don’t overlook the arms. If you plan to spend a lot of time lying on the sofa for reading or naps, make sure it has enough space between the arms. Don’t rely on overall length alone, as the width of the arms will affect the space between. If you’re short on space, think about buying a sofa with low arms or no arms — it’ll make your room look larger.

Design Considerations

Number of cushions. Asking yourself how many people you want to seat might sound silly, but the truth is, nobody likes sitting on the crack. So if you get a sofa with two cushions, expect just two people to use it. To accommodate more people, get a sofa with three cushions or a single long cushion, called a bench cushion.

Sofa back type. Sofas generally come with one of two types of backs: a pillow back, which has removable cushions or pillows along the rear; or a tight back, in which the upholstery is tailored to the contours of the sofa’s back.

Pillow-back sofas are generally considered more comfortable and inviting, but there’s a downside: Unless you’re diligent with your fluffing, the cushions will usually look slightly askew.

If you’re the kind of person who is driven to distraction by something like that, you might want to consider a tight back.

Sofa depth. When it comes to sofas, one size does not fit all. The depth of the seat and the angle of the back will influence how comfortable you feel.

How do you know what depth is right for you? Let experience be your guide. If there’s a sofa or chair that you find particularly comfortable, measure the distance from the inside of your knee to the spot where your lower back hits the back of the sofa, then buy a sofa that has similar dimensions.

Buying for the Long Term

Stick with neutrals. Since sofas are such a big investment, you’ll want yours to stay in fashion as long as possible. Given that, it’s often best to stick with a neutral fabric. You can always add color and pattern with throw pillows. Plus, pillows are easy and inexpensive to change if you decide to redecorate.

Consider durability. If you have kids and a neutral sofa sounds like an invitation to disaster, consider a darker color or a sofa with a subtle overall pattern.

As a rule, synthetic fabrics are more durable, colorfast and cleanable. Tightly woven fabrics and fabrics that are heavy will stand up to wear and tear better, as will leather. Avoid satins, brocades and damasks unless the sofa won’t get much use.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/things-you-need-to-know-about-buying-a-sofa-stsetivw-vs~11734542

Maximizing ROI: Home Remodel Projects That Pay Off

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:01:30 GMT

Thinking about a home remodel but wondering which projects will give you the best return on investment (ROI)? While the most profitable upgrades vary by market, certain renovations consistently provide high returns. If you're planning to sell or simply want to increase your home's value, consider these high-yielding remodel projects as recommended by appraisers.

1. Garage Door Replacement
A garage door is one of the first things people notice about a home, making it a high-impact upgrade. Replacing an old or outdated garage door with a modern, energy-efficient model enhances curb appeal and can yield a significant ROI. Homeowners often recoup over 90% of their investment with this update.

2. Minor Kitchen Remodel
A full kitchen renovation can be expensive, but a minor remodel often brings a better return. Refreshing cabinets with new hardware, upgrading appliances, replacing countertops, and updating backsplashes can dramatically improve a kitchen’s appeal. A small yet strategic investment in your kitchen can provide an ROI of around 70-80%.

3. Fiber Cement Siding
New siding instantly transforms a home’s exterior, improving both aesthetics and durability. Fiber cement siding, in particular, is highly resistant to weather, pests, and fire. It requires minimal maintenance and significantly enhances energy efficiency, making it a favorite among buyers. This upgrade typically recoups about 65-75% of its cost.

4. Vinyl Window Replacement
Old, drafty windows can be a turnoff for buyers and a drain on energy efficiency. Replacing them with modern vinyl windows improves insulation and reduces utility costs. This cost-saving appeal often results in a return of around 70% of the initial investment, making it a smart remodel choice.

5. Wooden Deck Addition
Outdoor living spaces are increasingly desirable, and adding a wooden deck is a cost-effective way to expand your home’s usable space. A well-built wooden deck enhances outdoor entertainment potential and can bring an ROI of 60-70%. Choosing high-quality materials and thoughtful design can further boost its value.

Not all home renovations offer the same return, so focusing on high-impact projects is key to maximizing your investment. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to boost your home's value for the long term, these remodels can help you get the best bang for your buck. Always consider your local market trends and consult with professionals to ensure you’re making the best choices for your home.

Debunking Common Homebuying Myths

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:36:00 GMT

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, yet many myths can make the process seem overwhelming or misleading. Let’s set the record straight on three common misconceptions about homebuying so you can navigate your journey with confidence!

Myth #1: Find the Home You Want First
It might seem logical to start your homebuying journey by searching for the perfect house, but this approach can lead to disappointment or frustration. The smarter move? Get pre-approved for a mortgage first! Knowing your budget upfront helps you narrow down your options and makes you a stronger buyer in a competitive market. Plus, sellers are more likely to take your offer seriously when they see you’re pre-approved.

Myth #2: Your Down Payment Must Be 20%
A 20% down payment is ideal, but it’s not a requirement. Many loan programs allow for much lower down payments. There are also down payment assistance programs and grants available for first-time buyers. Don’t let this myth hold you back from achieving homeownership sooner than you thought possible.

Myth #3: You Don’t Need a Home Inspection
Skipping a home inspection to save money or speed up the process can be a costly mistake. A professional home inspection helps uncover potential issues, such as structural damage, plumbing concerns, or electrical problems. Even in a competitive market, it’s worth negotiating time for an inspection to avoid unexpected expenses down the road.

Understanding the realities of homebuying can make your journey smoother and more successful. Don’t let myths hold you back. Stay informed and take the right steps toward homeownership with confidence!

An Interior Designer Shares 5 Ways to Refresh Your Home in 2025

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMT

New interior design trends sweep in every year, but not everyone can re-furnish or re-paint an entire home just to keep up. However, making small changes, like incorporating new colours, textures, or accent pieces, can spruce up your space and help you express your style and personality.

Now that you know what colours are officially “in” this year, as chosen by the top paint companies and Pantone’s colour experts, how can you incorporate a bit of these trendy shades into your home? We spoke with designer Maria Killam from Chilliwack, British Columbia, for her view on how you can use design trends to update your space in 2025. Killam is an acclaimed decorator, stylist, and author of two best selling eBooks: How To Choose Paint Colours and White Is Complicated.

Trend 1: Use vibrant colours in accent walls and décor items

Move over, muted neutrals. Killam expects richer, more vibrant colours to take centre stage in 2025. While stark white was all the rage for walls and kitchen cabinets, beige is back, she says.

“Things are warming up,” says Killam. “Brown is everywhere, and so is burgundy; we haven’t seen burgundy this big since the 1980s.”

Brown and burgundy can act either as a soft neutral or vibrant contrast. Consider bringing in these shades through accent pillows, cozy throws, or a new area rug to inject energy and inviting warmth into your living room. In the kitchen, install a few decorative wooden shelves for more storage and a pop of earthy colour.

Trend 2: Mix functional with decorative light fixtures

Lighting can double as functional art, so don’t be afraid to bring it into your home in less traditional ways.

“We’ve been doing the black and white trend for eight years, and now people want to warm up all the white boxy spaces,” says Killam. “To add a glow and make any living room better instantly, bring in four lamps—one for each corner. Get a white shade, not an opaque shade, otherwise no light can come through.”

Organic and curved shapes are right on trend for 2025, so invest in sculptural gourd-shaped lamps – available in a wide variety of materials and colours—to add interest, she adds.

“Buy them in a colour that matches your living room, and you’ll be so happy—you don’t even need any accessories on that end table if you have a beautiful gourd lamp,” she says.

Trend 3: Incorporate textures and natural elements into room designs

Biophilic design—bringing elements of nature into your living space—features plants, water features like fountains or aquariums, and natural materials like wood, rattan, jute, and more, to help transform your space into a soothing oasis.

Incorporating new textures into your home adds depth, and you can combine different ones—try mixing linen, stone, and wool. Maximize natural light by swapping out heavy curtains in favour of breezy sheers to flood rooms with sunlight. You may also want to add a large potted plant as a statement piece or create a living wall with pretty succulents.

Trend 4: Balance comfort with elegance in your bedrooms

For the new year, think comfort—balancing elegance with a soft, relaxed space you can retreat to. Consider sprucing up your bed with a cozy throw, for example, or treat yourself to a bold area rug that will feel warm underfoot during the winter.

In the market for a new duvet cover? Choose one in trendy jewel tones. You can also upgrade your bedside lamps here, too. Cool metallics like chrome, silver, and nickel will be huge in 2025, Killam notes, and are a great way to bring in some bling. But don’t skimp on the size.

“You need bedside table lamps that are bigger than the 10-inch ones you’ll find at big box stores. Get a 30-inch lamp that coordinates with your bedding,” she says.

Trend 5: Personalize your space with art

Using artwork to bring some life and depth to your walls isn’t a new concept. For 2025, we’re continuing to see gallery walls over single statement pieces. If you have a really large wall, you probably need six or seven pieces arranged in a gallery.

Consider mixing old with new by incorporating one or more retro accent pieces such as a mid-century curvy armchair or coffee table. Or, arrange some unique accessories like vintage books or vases when styling a shelf or fireplace mantel – these can add a splash of personality and nostalgia to any room. Try moving some of your existing pieces to another spot for a whole new look.

Above all, have some fun with trends that resonate with you. Don’t worry about experimenting with different ideas to create your ideal sanctuary.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/an-interior-designer-shares-5-ways-to-refresh-your-home-in-2025/37443/1367

Hoping to Buy a Home in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 18:00:00 GMT

For many Canadians, the start of a new year is a time for new resolutions. While eating healthier and getting more exercise still rank as the most common New Year’s resolutions in Canada, with both inflation and interest rates continuing to drop, more and more Canadians are making resolutions for 2025 that include the possibility of buying a home.

Will 2025 be a good time to buy a home?

For the past few years, high interest rates, increases in the cost of living, and political and economic worries have kept Canada’s housing market fairly flat (remember, the national housing market was even as “flat as a pancake” not too long ago). But with both mortgage rates and inflation now on their way down, 2025 is increasingly shaping up to be a busy market.

“I believe the first three months of 2025 will be one of the best times to buy in a very long time,” says REALTOR® Romey Halabi, founder of Toronto Realty Boutique in Toronto, Ontario.

In Toronto, Halabi says that will likely lead to something that hasn’t happened in “quite some time,”: a condo market that’s favourable to buyers simply because of the inventory that’s on hand.

Alan MacDonald, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Senior Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities’ MacDonald Advisory Team in Ottawa, Ontario, cautions even if prices fall, however, many Canadians will still be unable to afford to buy a home.

“Falling interest rates mean it’s easier to afford a larger mortgage, which typically draws more people into the real estate market,” MacDonald explains. “But one of the side effects of falling rates over the last 15 years has been an unprecedented boom in housing prices in Canada. So while falling rates should push more people into the market, the hurdle is there are fewer people who can afford to take the plunge.”

In addition, there will likely be a federal election in 2025, which could impact both home sales and prices.

“As we’ve seen in the past, federal elections can influence the housing markets, especially if they involve policy changes that promote affordability and impact demand and prices,” says Luisa Hough, a mortgage broker in Surrey, British Columbia, and co-founder of Verico Xeva Mortgage.

“But along with declining inflation, the predictions are to expect economic stabilization in 2025, which should increase consumer confidence and the housing market,” she adds.

Are you ready to become a homeowner?

The next question to ask yourself is whether you’re ready to become a homeowner. While individual circumstances vary, there are a few rules of thumb that can help you decide if this is the right time for you. For example:

Are you ready to commit to living in one home for the next few years? If there’s a good chance you may need to move in six months, it’s probably not an ideal time to buy.
Are your career and short-term plans fairly stable? Or are you thinking about making any big changes that could have an impact on your housing needs, personal situation, or income?
If you’re currently renting, are you ready to take care of all the repairs, maintenance, and other tasks that come with owning a home?
Perhaps most importantly, are you financially ready to own a home? Buying a home could be the biggest financial decision you ever make. Our affordability calculator can help you calculate your monthly housing costs and figure out how much you can afford to spend. Just remember to factor in all the expenses that come with homeownership, not just the mortgage payments. This includes things like condo fees, insurance, utilities, repairs and maintenance, and property taxes.

“When a buyer is thinking about buying a new home, their decision should be based solely upon their needs,” Halabi says. “An expanding family, marriage, moving to a new city, getting into a new school district—these are all life moments that may require a new home.”

For Hough, the “right time to buy” is less about what’s happening in the market, and more about your personal choices and circumstances.

“If you have the down payment, income, and are ready to make the move to being a homeowner, then it’s the right time to buy,” she says. “We can’t time any market. So as long as you’re in the position to purchase, the right time is when you’re ready.

“Real estate is generally not a short-term investment where you can try and time the market for one or two years,” she adds. “But if you stay invested in real estate long term, you can generally do well.”

When to contact a REALTOR® (and how they can help)

If you’ve resolved to become a homeowner this year, start your search for a local REALTOR® who will work best for you and your needs as early in the process as possible.

“It’s never too early to start working with a REALTOR®,” Halabi says. “They’re the first draft in your real estate team, as they can help connect you with a mortgage broker, lawyer, and anyone else you need.”

In addition to connecting you with their network of professionals, a REALTOR® can also answer any questions you may have, keep you informed about the latest ups and downs in the market, walk you through each step in the home buying process, and help you negotiate the best possible price for your new home.

If you don’t already have a REALTOR®, ask friends or family members for recommendations, or check out reviews of REALTORS® in your area online and through social media. You can also use our Find a REALTOR® tool to narrow your search down by location, languages spoken and areas of specialization.

“Getting the conversation going with a REALTOR® is the first step in educating yourself in how the process works” Halabi says. “Work with someone you actually like, because you’re going to be spending a lot of time together, and you want to ensure you’re comfortable being honest.”

What to do before you buy

If you decide you’re ready to buy, there are a few simple things you can do to make the home buying process as seamless as possible, and get the best possible deal on your new home. Your REALTOR® will help build a plan for your specific needs and timing, but you can always start with the basics. This includes:

Make a list of your wants and needs in a home, so you know exactly what to look for. Do you want a single-family home, a townhouse or a condo? How many bedrooms or bathrooms? What other features are important to you?
Identify which neighbourhoods you want to live in. If you’re thinking about moving to a new area, check out our Neighbourhood Guides or ask your REALTOR® for advice.
Find out your credit score, and see what you can do to improve it if necessary.
Use an affordability calculator to figure out how much you can afford to spend on a home, and create a budget to make sure you stay on track financially.
Get pre-approved or pre-qualified for a mortgage so you’ll know in advance exactly what price range you should be looking at.
Lastly, find out if you’re eligible for the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), GST/HST housing rebate, home buyers’ tax credit, or any other federal home buying programs and incentives. If you aren’t sure what these programs are or if you qualify, check with your REALTOR®.

“The first step I always recommend to my clients is to get their pre-approval, so you know how much you can afford,” Halabi says. “Next, decide what your top neighbourhoods are. Then make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. When buyers are prepared and organized, they won’t get caught up in an emotionally charged decision.”

For Hough, getting pre-qualified for a mortgage is almost always the best first step to take.

“In my eyes, every buyer must get pre-qualified,” she says. “There’s a misconception on pre-approval vs. pre-qualification. There are similarities in both… [but] pre-qualification is a more formal process, where we ask for all the documentation and information upfront to ensure if there are any obstacles during the mortgage process, we can address them.

“Pre-qualification helps the borrower clarify their budget, strengthen their offer and speed up the subject-to-financing process,” she explains. “Getting pre-qualified early on can save time and stress for the borrower.”

Maximize your down payment

If you still have some time between now and when you’re planning to buy, try to save as much as you can for that all-important down payment. This will help maximize your chances of getting approved and getting the best possible rate on your mortgage.

If you don’t have enough saved up to afford the home you want, creating a budget can help you save more. You can also grow your down payment in the meantime by putting what you’ve already saved into a safe, liquid investment like a GIC or high-interest savings account, or temporarily investing your savings in an RRSP, TFSA, or the new First Home Savings Account (FHSA).

“Investments with a short time frame such as 12 months or less should be in savings accounts or cashable GICs,” MacDonald notes. “There are a number of providers that offer high interest bonuses to new accounts, so it’s worth doing a bit of shopping.

“Buyers who haven’t owned a home in the last four years should also take advantage of the FHSA, which lets you contribute up to $8,000 per calendar year,” he adds. “You get a tax deduction for each contribution and no tax payable when you use the funds to buy your first home. But unlike an RRSP or TFSA, the contribution room doesn’t carry forward if you don’t open an account.”

Additional considerations for first-time home buyers

If you’re a first-time home buyer, there are some additional things you may need to prepare. For instance, some first-time buyers aren’t aware of how long the home buying process can take.

“The home buying process length can differ from buyer to buyer,” Halabi explains. “I’ve had clients who are very open to one or two neighbourhoods who found a home in a couple weeks. But others who have more specifics on their must-have list could take longer.

“Most sellers ask for a 30 or 60-day close,” he adds. Meaning, the final transfer of ownership would take place either 30 or 60 days after the agreement is signed.

Depending on your budget, you may need to start with a smaller or more modest home for your first property. This can allow you to build both your equity and your experience, while still getting your foot on the first step in the property ladder.

Plus, don’t put yourself in a situation where you buy more home than you can realistically afford or maintain. While you may be tempted to stretch your budget to get a home that seems perfect, being “house rich, but cash poor,” can be a very stressful—and risky—way to live.

“For people who are currently renting, the mortgage payment may be close to what you pay in rent,” MacDonald says. “But there are all kinds of other expenses associated with homeownership, like taxes, insurance and upkeep. If you don’t have exact numbers, use 2% or 3% of the purchase price to estimate your added monthly ancillary costs. Then try living for six months as though you already own the home, to see if you can do it before you make the leap.”

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/hoping-to-buy-a-home-in-2025-heres-what-you-need-to-know/37423/1363

Solutions to Landscaping Mistakes

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:47:00 GMT

Learn how to avoid common landscaping blunders and how to remedy the ones that may already be creeping into your yard.

Mistake: Not Recycling Your Fall Yard Waste
Fall yard projects tend to produce a good amount of waste; what a shame to let good waste go to waste.

Solution: Compost It
Instead of tossing out those fall leaves, branches, clippings and other debris from your fall clean-up, dispose of them in an eco-friendly way. Rent a shredder and turn them into mulch, and put lawn clippings back on the lawn — they are both great fertilizers. Better yet, create a compost pile or build a compost bin. Layer yard waste with food scraps and in no time you'll have rich fertilzer that didn't cost you a dime.

Mistake: Neglecting Curb Appeal
Never underestimate the power of curb appeal. A lot of homeowners put all of their energy into the backyard, but the front of the house is where first impressions are made.

Solution: Do These Three Things
There are three simple improvements you can make that make a big difference. Paint your door a contrasting color than the base color of your home, keep the grass trim and green and plant colorful flowers.

Mistake: Excessive Lawn Tchotchkes
People often make the mistake of putting too many decorative items in their yard, which can distract from the beauty of the natural landscape.

Solution: Be Selective
Before filling your yard with a gaggle of garden gnomes, ask yourself why you're putting it there and how it fits the context of your overall design and plant materials. Stick with one choice, even if it is a little silly. One whimsical statement goes a lot further than 10.

Mistake: Planting in the Wrong Place
Improper plant placement is another common mistake. People often do not take into consideration the needed sunlight and exposure for their plants.

Solution: Read the Plant Tag
Be sure to pay attention to the little tag that you get when you buy the plant. When it comes to planting trees, you need to remember how big they could get and how much space they are going to need. Also think about focal points — choose something that's going to look good year-round.

Mistake: Leaving Tools Out in the Elements
Let's be honest: Quality tools cost a pretty penny so leaving them out to ruin in the rain is like throwing money away. Plus, rusty shears will make uneven, dull cuts that can harm even healthy plants.

Solution: a Dedicated Storage Spot
Whether it's an organized corner in your garage or a standalone garden shed, storing expensive garden tools indoors will prolong their usefulness for many years to come.

For more tips, visit: https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/landscaping-and-hardscaping/25-biggest-landscaping-mistakes-pictures

9 Dated Features Homebuyers Always Notice

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 17:16:00 GMT

Interior designers share the top out-of-date details prospective buyers will spot first in a home, no matter what.

Refreshed and Ready to Sell
Whether you’re polishing up your home to sell or just want to enjoy some modern touches, dated decor can make a home seem stuck in the past.

“While some so-called ‘outdated’ items may be off-trend, if the current homeowner loves them, that’s what’s important,” says Jenny Williamson, chief creative officer at West Rose Design. While you don’t need to try every new decorating trend, "if you’re selling your home, it’s good to be aware of what will appear less than ideal for prospective homebuyers.”

Here are the dated features buyers always notice, according to our experts.

Wall-to-Wall Carpet
Although carpet was once very much in favor (even in bathrooms!) in the 1970s, these days, Williamson says, if there is carpet anywhere other than bedrooms, “it’s a no-go.”

“Newer homes typically never have a carpet delineation in shared spaces or wall-to-wall carpet everywhere, as seen in the ’70s and ’80s,” she says. “Carpet more easily traps dirt and debris and is not viewed as ideal when looking for a new home.”

Try Layering Rugs
But let’s say that replacing it isn’t within your current budget. In this case, Williamson recommends diverting focus by adding throw rugs over the carpet, creating a more layered look that will help separate spaces.

Popcorn Ceilings
Williamson says that while popcorn ceilings were certainly “all the rage” in the 1960s and '70s, today, they look totally outdated.

“They will be a clear turnoff for any new homebuyer, not only based on looks alone, but also for the health hazard — most popcorn ceilings installed before 1978 were installed with asbestos, a fiber that can increase the risk of several serious diseases and cancer,” Williamson says.

Corner Alcove Tubs
Corner alcove bathtubs were once a sign of an upscale primary bathroom, but according to Lindsie Davis, owner and principal designer of Blueberry Jones Design, they’re a thing of the past. Davis points out that these “trending beauties of the ‘90s” take up valuable floor space, often resulting in a smaller shower. And don’t even get us started on how hard these tubs are to clean and maintain.

Heavy Curtains
Sure, heavy curtains can keep light out, if that’s your goal, but nowadays, prospective homebuyers are all about natural light. A darker space can appear dated, Williamson notes, and heavy draperies won’t allow the maximum amount of light into a home.

Glass-Block Windows
Remember those glass-block windows that were the thing in the 1980s? Well, they might be fresh in your mind if they are currently residing in your home. Davis says these “clunky, cloudy bricks,” can take away from a spacious and airy feel — something that feels much more right-this-minute.

“Over time, these windows tend to collect dust, grime and not to mention soap scum if used in a shower area, which is never a great impression for a potential homebuyer,” Davis says.

Builder-Grade Lighting
Perhaps you moved into your home and never swapped out the existing light fixtures. This is an all-too-common move among homeowners, but more often than not, these lights eventually look out of date. Specifically? Williamson cites “ornate chandeliers” and the dreaded “boob lights” as ones that should be replaced.

Try Adding Lamps
But if you can’t replace old overhead lighting for one reason or another, Williamson recommends adding lamps at eye level to pull the eye away from the overhead lighting.

Tuscan Style
Everyone seemed to be clamoring for “Tuscan style” back in the 2000s, but in modern times, “Unless you live in Italy, having everything in your home reflect a rustic Tuscan style is incredibly specific and less than optimal,” Williamson says. The style can include things like wrought-iron fixtures, cherry cabinets, deep-colored accent walls and other ornate details, which will “divert attention away from the home’s other selling points,” Williamson says.

Old Paint
Davis believes that paint is essential maintenance for a home. Not necessarily speaking to trending colors, she says that simply a “good refresh and re-coat” will do wonders for your space.

Try a Fresh Coat
“A fresh coat of paint will keep your home feeling clean and energized and is a simple way to offer a great impression for prospective homebuyers,” she adds.

Old Wallpaper
In the same vein, old wallpaper should be avoided as well. Particularly, Williamson says that wallpaper with “borders or an outdated pattern” immediately dates a home. And she says that while some homebuyers might feel a pang of nostalgia for Grandma’s house, they likely don’t want old-fashioned wallpaper in their own house.

Try a Neutral Backdrop
“Replace it with a more modern take on wallpaper or remove it altogether for a neutral backdrop,” she advises. “Decorating is more than just aesthetics,” reminds Davis. “A well-designed home will help your life stay organized and efficient, which in return will create a calm and welcoming environment.”

Source: https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/dated-features-home-buyers-always-notice-pictures

Easy Ways to Save $1,500 Annually: Lower Electrical and HVAC Costs

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 20:39:00 GMT

Following holiday splurges, you may be looking for ways to save money. Did you know that with very little effort and often no additional investment, you can make changes around your home that save up to $1,500 annually? These tips will help you reduce your electrical, heating and cooling costs all year round.

Phantom Power
Phantom (or standby power) can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy use. The average Canadian household has 25 electronic devices that use phantom power, costing approximately $150 a year in wasted electricity (Hydro One). Unplug coffee makers, phone chargers, computers, etc. when they are not needed.

Toaster Oven
Toaster ovens use 50% to 70% less energy than a full-size oven and they won’t heat up the home to the same degree—a welcome relief on hot summer days.

Pitcher of water
Keep a pitcher of filtered water in the refrigerator to enjoy a refreshing sip without running the tap waiting for the water to get cold. This is also an economical alternative to bottled water.

Cold water wash
According to General Electric, an estimated 75% to 90% of all the energy your clothes washer uses goes to warming up the water. Cold water saves money and makes your clothes last longer. Typically, warm water is required only for bed sheets and items stained with sweat or blood.

Air drying
Dry your clothes on a rack or line when possible. This saves on electricity costs and extends the life of your appliance. Consider this: a basic dryer now starts at $725 with tax and will last about a decade depending on usage. If you do two loads per week, the true cost of each dry cycle is approximately $0.70 for the machine plus $0.55 for the electricity.

If you find your clothes feel stiff from air drying, add a few tablespoons of vinegar, Epsom salts, or baking soda to the wash.

Filters
Clean filters allow for better airflow and improved machine efficiency. Each time you use your clothes dryer, wipe out the filter first. Clean or replace the filter in your furnace according to the manufacturer's instructions.

ENERGY STAR appliances
When it’s time to purchase a new appliance, choose one with a high Energy Star rating. The rating is part of a voluntary partnership between the Government of Canada and industry to make high efficiency products visible to Canadians.

Water heater insulation
For as little as $6, you can reduce heat loss from your water heater. If the tank is electric, you can use polyethylene or neoprene foam pipe covers. If you have a gas water heater, your safest choice is fiberglass pipe-wrap (at least 1-inch thick) without a facing that is secured with either wire or aluminum foil tape (U.S. Department of Energy).

If the outside of your water heater tank feels hot, it is poorly insulated. For as little as $50, you can purchase an insulated foil wrap that will pay for itself within a year.

Ceiling fan
Since hot air rises and cool air sinks, a ceiling fan can reduce your heating and cooling costs. During the summer, set the fan to rotate counterclockwise to draw up cool air. During the winter, set it to rotate clockwise to distribute heat throughout the room.

Thermostat settings
Lowering your thermostat by one degree Celsius in the winter can save you $25 per month, depending on the size of your home. Enjoy similar savings raising the thermostat by a degree in the summer.

Drafts
If your home feels drafty, it may have leaks. Seal any cracks in window and door frames, walls, ceilings, and floors.

LED lightbulbs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household saves about $225 in energy costs per year by using LED bulbs compared to incandescent and they last up to 25 times longer. LEDs also last longer than florescent bulbs, which release toxic mercury when they break.

Bonus tip: Compost kitchen scraps

Compost your fruit and vegetable peelings in your garden. This feeds worms and vital microorganisms in your soil reducing the need for fertilizer. You will also reduce the amount of garbage you lug to the curb each week!

Canada Greener Homes Grant money
If you wish to save even more, the Canada Greener Homes Initiative reimburses homeowners up to $600 for pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations and offers grants ranging from $125 to $5,000. Eligible retrofits include home insulation, new windows and doors, solar panels, roofing membrane, etc. To learn more, visit the Natural Resources Canada website.

Source: https://www.sutton.com/blog/home-improvement/easy-ways-to-save-1-500-annually

Everything You Need to Know About Gifted Down Payments

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 20:29:00 GMT

As home prices and interest rates increased this year, some Canadian families are choosing to help their kids get a foothold in the real estate market. One of the ways they’re doing that is with gifted down payments.

A 2021 CIBC report said 30% of first-time buyers in Canada got a boost thanks to receiving money as a gift for a down payment on a home. James Harrison, Mortgage Broker at Mortgages.ca estimates that, in some markets, that number is a lot higher, with gifts ranging anywhere from $10,000 to more than $1 million. There is no limit to the amount that can be gifted.

“At least two-thirds of my clients are getting a gift of some amount,” he says. “Parents just want to help their kids buy, with the goal often being a 20% down payment.”

According to the CIBC report, in 2015, the average Canadian gift was $52,000. In 2021 it was $82,000. Gifts in Vancouver lead with the highest average in Canada, clocking in at $180,000, and Toronto a close second at $130,000.

What are gifted down payments?
A gifted down payment is exactly what it sounds like: a monetary gift from a parent, grandparent, sibling, or other close relative, towards the purchase of a home. It isn’t a loan; it’s non-repayable. The person doing the giving should have zero expectations of getting that money back, and will often be asked to sign an agreement to that effect.

How are gifted down payments different from co-signing?
When you give a gift, you don’t own any part of the property, but you also don’t assume any of the risk. If you co-sign, you are on the title—and 100% liable if the homeowners default on their mortgage. Co-signing can also impact your ability to borrow: whatever amount you have co-signed for will look like you borrowed it yourself.

Do gifted down payments have any impact on a mortgage approval?
No. Your income determines the max you qualify for, and the down payment is on top of that. Of course, the more of a down payment you have, the less you’ll need to borrow. So if you only qualify for a smaller loan, a gift can help you buy something bigger than you could otherwise afford.

“A gift can also get you from an insured purchase (less than 20% down) to a conventional one,” says Harrison. “Insured only gets you a max 25-year amortization, with strict debt ratios. But with 20% or more down, you could potentially qualify for a 30-year amortization with more give on the ratios. That can make a big difference in the total mortgage you qualify for.”

What are the rules around gifted down payments?
Everyone needs to sign a mortgage gift letter (each lender has their own template). Harrison says you must also provide proof that the gifted funds have been deposited into your account, and they should be there no later than 15 days before closing. For funds coming from outside Canada, lenders want to see those in your (Canadian) account 30 to 90 days before closing.

Depending on how gifted funds are used in the transaction, there may also be obligations to comply with Canada’s anti-money laundering laws, according to Canada’s Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre (FINTRAC). For example, if the gifted funds are provided directly to the REALTOR®, the REALTOR® would have an obligation to verify the identity of the individual providing the funds.

Can we use borrowed funds to gift money to our kids?
Yes, you can. However, it’s probably not as common as you think: only about 5.5% of gifting parents use debt to finance gifting. If you’re considering using your line of credit, just be careful about your debt load, especially if you’re looking to retire anytime soon.

Are there any tax implications to gifting a down payment?
In Canada, gifted down payments aren’t taxed. Immediate family members can provide the gift without either side being on the hook taxwise. Of course, it’s always prudent to check with a tax professional for info pertaining to your specific financial situation.

That being said, Harrison suggests to his clients they consider protecting the gift in the event the recipient splits from their partner. Otherise, half your gift could end up with the departing spouse/partner.

Getting into the real estate market can provide plenty of benefits, like housing stability, an investment opportunity for yourself, and numerous social benefits. Helping your immediate family members with a down payment, if you’re able to, can be a great way to get them into the market so they can begin their homeownership journey.

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-gifted-down-payments/34688/1363

Maximizing Property Appeal: The Impact of Home Staging on Real Estate Transaction

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 18:06:00 GMT

In the dynamic world of real estate, the presentation of a property stands as a critical factor in driving its sale.

This is where home staging comes into play, serving as a powerful tool to enhance a property’s appeal. By thoughtfully curating a property’s aesthetics to appeal to prospective buyers, home staging can significantly elevate a property’s perceived value. This strategic enhancement not only captivates potential buyers but also often translates into swifter sales and potentially higher transaction values, thereby underlining the profound impact of home staging on real estate transactions.

What is Home Staging

Home staging is the art of preparing a residential property for sale by enhancing its aesthetic appeal to captivate potential buyers.

Originating in the 1970s in the United States, this practice has evolved into an essential marketing tool within the real estate industry. It involves more than just tidying up; it includes decluttering, rearranging furniture, optimizing space, and sometimes making minor repairs.

Modern staging techniques have expanded to include professional photography, which captures the essence of the property in its best light, and virtual staging, an innovative approach where digital furnishings and decor are added to pictures of empty rooms, making them more appealing and relatable to buyers.

Psychological Aspects of Home Staging

The effectiveness of home staging lies in its ability to influence buyer perception. By strategically styling a property, staging allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space, thus creating an emotional connection.

This emotional appeal is a powerful tool in real estate sales. A well-staged home not only creates a warm and inviting image but also helps buyers overlook minor flaws, focusing instead on the potential lifestyle the home offers. It also sets the stage for buyers to imagine future memories and experiences in the home, which can be a decisive factor in their decision-making process.

Essentials of Successful Home Staging

Effective home staging is much more than just cleaning and decorating; it’s about creating a mood. Key elements include decluttering to create a sense of space, and depersonalization to help buyers imagine their own lives in the home. Strategic lighting is used to highlight the property’s best features, while décor is selected to create a welcoming, universal appeal.

The property’s exterior, or curb appeal, is equally vital in making a memorable first impression. Landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, and minor repairs can significantly boost a property’s exterior allure. In staging, every detail counts, from the color of the towels in the bathroom to the placement of furniture, each element works together to create an environment that buyers can aspire to.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Home Staging

While there are upfront costs involved in home staging, these are often outweighed by the benefits.

The investment can vary from a simple consultation and minor adjustments to a full-scale staging involving rental furniture and major landscaping work. However, the return on investment can be substantial. Staged homes not only tend to sell at higher prices but also often sell faster, which can be a significant advantage in markets where properties might otherwise linger. This quicker sale process can result in reduced carrying costs like mortgage payments, property taxes, and utilities, further emphasizing the financial benefits of home staging.

DIY vs. Professional Home Staging

For those on a budget, DIY staging can be a viable option.

Key DIY tasks include deep cleaning, rearranging existing furniture, and making minor repairs. However, for properties in competitive markets or at the higher end of the price spectrum, the expertise of a professional stager can be invaluable. These professionals bring an objective eye and an understanding of what appeals to today’s buyers. They can also access rental furniture and décor to enhance the look of the home, something that might be beyond the scope of most homeowners.

Regional Trends and Future Directions

The approach to home staging varies by region, reflecting local tastes and lifestyles.

In urban centers, there’s a trend towards sleek, minimalist designs that appeal to a modern aesthetic, while rural and suburban properties may benefit from a more traditional, cozy feel. Looking ahead, digital advancements are making a mark on home staging. Virtual staging, where furniture and decor are digitally inserted into photographs of an empty room, is gaining popularity for its cost-effectiveness and convenience. Additionally, 3D virtual tours are increasingly being used, allowing potential buyers to explore a staged home online, which is particularly appealing in the current era of remote buying and selling. These technological trends indicate a future where home staging can be both more versatile and accessible.

Conclusion

Home staging emerges as a key strategy in real estate, offering a powerful means to elevate a property’s aesthetic appeal and marketability. By thoughtfully preparing a home for the market, sellers can effectively showcase their property’s full potential, often leading to quicker sales and higher returns.

Given its proven impact, incorporating home staging into the selling process is not just recommended but can be considered an essential step for those looking to maximize their property’s value. Sellers are advised to carefully assess their staging needs, considering both DIY approaches and the expertise of professional stagers, to ensure their home is presented in the best possible light to potential buyers.

Source: https://canadianrealestatemagazine.ca/news/the-impact-of-home-staging-on-real-estate-transactions/

15 Cozy Winter Decorating Ideas for After Christmas

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 18:15:00 GMT

After the Christmas tree, stockings and string lights come down, the house can look a little ... lackluster. Add a bit of cozy cheer to your home with these wintery — but not Christmassy — decorating ideas.

How to Decorate After the Holidays
We get it: It can be hard to part with your Christmas decorations at the end of the holiday season. Once they’re taken down, it just feels like there’s something missing from your home, doesn't it? If you’re experiencing some post-holiday blues, try these simple decorating tips that’ll help you transition into winter. Start by putting away anything overtly Christmassy: Think Santa figurines, stockings, candy canes, bows and — of course — the Christmas tree. Then, replace those items with more subtle color and texture in the form of fresh greenery, plush fabrics and metallic accessories. Some of your existing holiday decor may fit the bill, but if not, we’ve got easy and inexpensive ideas for every room.

First up
After you’ve taken the Christmas tree down, consider adding some unadorned greenery to your home for a burst of fresh color and scent. You may even be able to forage it from your backyard! A pair of potted pine trees and tree cuttings hung on the wall lend a wintry feel to this dining room.

Add Plush Faux Fur
Decorating for winter is all about layering cozy textures, and faux fur is one of the coziest options of all. Add a couple of faux fur throw pillows to your accent chairs or a perfectly draped blanket over your sofa to create a space you’ll want to snuggle up in all season long. Gray or brown fur will lend a rustic touch to your decor, while white fur will look more modern and call to mind a snowy landscape.

Take a Cue From Winter Clothing
Think about your favorite winter clothing — like a thick, warm cable-knit sweater — and try to capture its look and feel in your home decor. Incorporate cozy, sweater-like texture into your space with pillows, throws or even ceramic vases like the ones seen here. You can make your own cable-knit-inspired vessels by cutting old sweaters to size and adhering them directly to glass or ceramic vases with spray adhesive or starch.

Repurpose Holiday Lights
You don’t have to pack up the string lights as soon as the holidays are over; put them to use in creative new ways to give your home a warm glow all winter long. Try hanging string lights, a sheer curtain and faux ivy from a curtain rod to create a dreamy backdrop behind your bed, like YouTube creator Karen Kavett did here.

Spruce Up the Mantel
After the Christmas stockings come down, the fireplace mantel can look a little bare — but it doesn’t have to. Dress it up with some simple, seasonally appropriate decor; greenery and a grouping of candles is a can’t-go-wrong look that’s easy to pull off. Here, designer Brian Patrick Flynn piled eucalyptus on the mantel in lieu of the more typical pine or spruce garlands.

Introduce Metallic Accents
Bring a few metallic accessories into your home to replace some of the shine that your Christmas ornaments previously provided. Candles, vases and glassware in gold, silver, copper or bronze will add just the right amount of sparkle to your space.

Hang a Wintry Wreath
Swap your Christmas wreath with an understated door decoration that can stay up all winter long. Stick with natural elements like greenery and pinecones, and steer clear of anything too Christmassy like bows, ornaments or jingle bells. This DIY wood slice wreath is a great option; you can make it with fresh greenery and replace it as it dries out, or use faux greenery that’ll last year after year.

Go Mad for Plaid
Buffalo check, tartan and other plaids are staples of holiday decor, but they can also be used year-round to give your home a classic, cozy feel. Adding plaid pillows and throws is an easy way to incorporate the pattern into your home, but if you’re ready to make a larger commitment, look for furniture upholstered in plaid fabric or even plaid wallpaper.

Put Blankets on Display
A blanket ladder serves two purposes: It instantly cozies up any room and frees up storage space elsewhere for the new goodies you got for Christmas. Build this easy DIY blanket ladder to fill a bare wall with your fluffiest blankets, or shop our favorite blanket ladders.

Pretty Up With Pinecones
Like greenery, pinecones are a popular holiday decoration that don’t scream “Christmas,” so they can be reused throughout the season. Simply fill a clear vase or candleholder with pinecones for an easy table centerpiece, or make a pinecone wreath. If you can’t find the pinecones in your yard, you can purchase them from a craft store.

Store Firewood in Style
Keeping a stash of firewood inside not only makes it convenient to build a roaring fire any time, but it also serves as a warm, rustic accent for your space. Try storing firewood in a woven basket for even more inviting texture, or shop our favorite firewood storage options.

Go All in on Green
While red and green is a decidedly Christmassy color combo, using green on its own can create a woodsy atmosphere in your home that works all winter long. Spruce up your home with accessories in forest, hunter or pine green, or paint your walls in one of these rich hues if you're up for a larger project. A small powder room, like this space designed by Kate Marker Interiors, is a great place to experiment with bold, moody color.

Showcase Winter Sports Gear
Make your home feel like a rustic ski lodge by incorporating winter sports gear into your decor. In this bedroom, designer Brian Patrick Flynn created a unique gallery wall by hanging vintage snow shoes behind the bed.

Create a Coffee Station
A hot cup of coffee, tea or cocoa is so comforting on a cold winter day. Make your beverage routine a little more special by setting up a coffee station on your kitchen countertop or dining room sideboard. Set out a few of your favorite mugs, and organize stirrers, creamers and other essentials in pretty containers. Arrange everything on a nice tray to pull it all together.

Pick Cold-Hardy Plants
Don’t forget your outdoor spaces. Brighten up your porch, deck or patio with cold-hardy potted plants like thread-branch cypress (pictured), Japanese yew or cast iron plant. To ensure your plants will thrive all winter long, pick varieties that can survive a climate one or two zones colder than where you live.

Bring a few metallic accessories into your home to replace some of the shine that your Christmas ornaments previously provided. Candles, vases and glassware in gold, silver, copper or bronze will add just the right amount of sparkle to your space.

Re-Do Your Shelves With These 10 Style Tips

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 18:06:00 GMT

Styling a shelf with vignettes of prized possessions is a prime opportunity to convey your style and personality. Shelves are not only home to books, but family heirlooms, art, photographs and travel mementoes. We’re sharing 10 shelf styling tips that will upgrade how you show off your favorite books and accessories.

1. Read The Room
Styling a shelf with objects that mirror the textures and color palette of your room creates a cohesive look. This home’s workspace bookshelf has a soft, neutral palette, sculptural shape, natural materials and earthy colors that suit the zen wood shelves and white walls.

2. Add Art
On this Paul McCobb wall unit, art is layered in alongside a TV monitor and coffee table books for color and personality in this Toronto condo.

3. Make Room For Collections
Using a shelf as a platform for a curated collection of artwork and decorative ornaments creates a mini gallery and an intentional viewing arena within the home. In this condo shelf, Debra Campbell displays her collection of limited-edition Barbies, including a Hudson’s Bay Company version (complete with a poodle dressed in a matching coat).

4. Stack Books Horizontally And Vertically
Stacking books in two directions add visual interest. In the two-bedroom Toronto condo of Alessia De Gasperis-Brigante, the singer-songwriter known as Kai, she switches up the orientation of her collection.

5. Add A Little Green
Wood, ceramics, glass and a green plant inject a calming note. For a quieter look, designer Nyla Free turned the book spines inward and removed the covers in this home.

6. ive Objects Room To ‘Breathe’
Resist the temptation to cram shelves so your shelf design doesn’t feel cluttered or overwhelming. Leave some negative space between the groupings.

7. Try Color Blocking
Not only can you color block books, take a chromatic approach to the shelves themselves and paint the interior a contrast hue that highlights the contents. In designer Nathalie Tredgett’s London townhouse, she uses peach as a foil for the dark lavender built-ins.

8. Vary The Height Of Objects
Grouping objects in an array of heights, size, and shape keeps shelves from looking too uniform and creates variety for an appealing design. Include taller objects like large vases or candle sticks.

9. Curate!
The beauty of shelves is that they elevate the everyday object, so treat couture and designer accessories for the art pieces they are. In the wardrobe of this Montreal apartment, iconic fashion finds like Chanel’s quilted bag and cap-toe pumps are easy to access — and appreciate — behind a glass door.

10. Finally, Stand Back
To get an overall sense of compostion, pull back and see how objects balance big items like art or TV monitors. Taking a photo can help reveal if items need to be added or removed, or walk away from the bookshelf and come back later to assess the composition.

Resource: https://houseandhome.com/gallery/re-do-your-shelves-with-these-10-style-tips/#image-11

Typical Conditions You’ll Encounter During a Home Sale

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 17:36:00 GMT

For most people, buying a home will likely be the most significant investment of their lives. With the emotional and financial aspects tied to purchasing and/or selling a home, it’s important to complete all due diligence to ensure your investment is protected.

This article will explore what conditions are, typical conditions you’ll encounter during the offer process, how they can affect the sale, and what happens if they’re not met.

What is a conditional offer and who benefits from one?
Simply put, “a conditional offer is when a buyer makes an offer on a property that contains conditions,” explains Duncan McDougald, REALTOR® with RE/MAX Executives Realty in Whitemouth, Manitoba. “Conditions are put in place to protect the buyer or seller as both have the right to include them in an offer to purchase. Realistically, conditions can be anything, as long as both parties agree to them. As a REALTOR®, it’s important to know what conditions to recommend to buyers and sellers in various scenarios.”

“Conditions don’t have to be accepted by either party, but if they’re reasonable and there’s no better offer on the table, it’s a very typical part of an ‘accepted conditional offer’, which is the status of a sale when the public sees it as ‘pending,’” he continues.

More often than not, conditions are put in place by the buyer because it facilitates a safety net for them.

“If a buyer’s condition(s) can’t be satisfied, they’re no longer under any legal obligation to move forward with the conditional deal,” explains McDougald.

In an offer, a buyer will include a time frame for their condition(s) to be satisfied. If they’re not satisfied by the end date, the deal becomes null and void unless both parties agree to extend the timeframe or the buyer gives notice that the condition(s) won’t be satisfied. In most cases, the buyer is entitled to a return of their deposit money if the conditions aren’t satisfied, but do keep in mind that there is an obligation to make an effort to satisfy the conditions.

It should also be noted here that “a condition made by either party is for the benefit of that specific party and they’re entitled to waive their condition any time before the condition’s deadline if they feel it’s no longer required,” emphasizes McDougald.

One of a seller’s favourite offers to receive is an unconditional cash offer. If they like the terms, they sign the acceptance and the property is legally sold.

“There are times, however, when an unconditional cash offer is made as part of a lowball offer in hopes it’ll tempt the seller into signing. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” shares McDougald. “As a REALTOR®, it’s also our job to advise in those situations, but it’s ultimately up to the seller as to what they’ll accept.”

Common conditions

There’s a lot to consider beyond the price point of a home, and agreed upon conditions help ensure protection and a smoother sale. These are some of the more common conditions you’ll encounter during a home sale, though they won’t all be present in every offer.

Appraisal contingency

Buyers have the right to request an appraisal of the home to compare its true value to the asking price. If the home is appraised for less than what the seller listed in the contract, the buyer may not be approved for the mortgage asking price, re-negotiations may commence, or the buyer may walk away with their deposit.

Home inspections

While not a legal obligation, one of the most important and highly recommended conditions to include is a home inspection to ensure the property is structurally sound. Though sellers will occasionally foot the bill, home inspections are usually paid for by the buyer with an inspector of their choosing so they feel confident in the results.

Financing

A financing condition or clause lets a seller know the buyer’s offer to purchase the property is conditional on obtaining their financing. The condition affords the buyer time—usually five to seven business days—to confirm their ability to obtain mortgage approval. This protects the buyer in the event the home appraisal comes in low and they’re not approved for the amount offered.

Escape clause

Usually stipulated by the seller, this clause allows the seller to “escape” or terminate the agreement based on a condition. A common use of the escape clause is when a seller has accepted a conditional offer on their home whereby the buyer requires 10 days to secure their financing. If the seller is receiving better offers during this time, the escape clause allows them to provide the original conditional offer 48 hours to complete the sale and if they can’t, the sellers have the right to go with a new buyer.

Land survey review

A survey review differs from a home inspection by way of surveying the grounds the property is on and again, while not required, it’s strongly advised to pay for a qualified, chartered professional to survey the property.

Cleanliness

Who doesn’t want to move into a clean home? This condition specifies the requirement for the home to be professionally cleaned before you move in.

Fixtures and chattels

If you expect to have appliances when moving into the new home it’s important to write it in the contract so you’re not met with an unexpectedly bare home on moving day. Make sure everyone is aware of what’s staying and what’s going.

Always consult your REALTOR®

During the negotiation period, most buyers will have at least a few conditions they present to a seller.

“Buyers and sellers should always discuss conditions with their REALTOR® for their specific purchase or sale and if uncertain, they should never be afraid to obtain sound legal advice from a lawyer,“ insists McDougald.

The conditions you include in your offer will vary depending on your situation, but with the help of a REALTOR® you can make sure you include the ones that make the most sense for you.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/typical-conditions-youll-encounter-during-a-home-sale/32326/1363

Checkpoints You Should Consider Over the Course of Your Mortgage

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 17:38:00 GMT

When you buy a home, you’re probably not thinking too much about where life will take you five, 10, or 20 years from now. At the time, you’re more preoccupied with getting moved in and settling into your new space. But as your personal, professional, and financial situations change over time, you might need to re-evaluate your mortgage, too. That’s why it’s smart to consult a mortgage expert every few years to find out how you can optimize your payments as your lifestyle evolves. Here’s what to keep in mind throughout the amortization period of your mortgage.

Why are regular mortgage check-ins important?

Reviewing your mortgage frequently, especially if your financial needs, personal circumstances, or homeownership goals change, is a good idea, says Craig Howie, Durham Region Mortgage Agent for Dominion Lending Centres in Whitby, Ontario.

During these check-ins, your mortgage specialist will review your finances, income, employment status, debts, and personal life events, such as divorce or illness. They’ll also want to discuss your short- and long-term homeownership goals. This can help you decide whether to change your mortgage strategy or structure, such as paying a lump sum, negotiating interest rates, or increasing your payment frequency.

What happens when your mortgage is nearing renewal?

You can renew with your current lender without the need for a credit check or income verification, but that’s not always the best financial move, says Howie.

“Lenders often don’t send out their best rates in a renewal letter because they know people are busy or their credit situation could have changed,” he explains. “Somebody who lost their job or has extra expenses will value the idea of paying a slightly higher rate without another credit or income check.”

You could switch to another lender to get a better rate, but if you’ve made big purchases (car, vacation, taking out loans, etc.) your debt-to-income ratio increases, and that can affect your ability to get another mortgage.

“Once you have a mortgage, you’re only qualified for that mortgage; if you take that mortgage to another lender, they view it as a completely new one,” says Howie.

Five years into your mortgage: kids and jobs can factor in

Five years in, homeowners may have started a family, which impacts your finances, says Howie.

“You can often end up in higher debt due to maternity or paternity leave and daycare expenses, so we can look at a potential refinance and consolidating credit card or line of credit debt and adding it to the mortgage at a much lower rate,” he explains.

Amortizing those costs over a longer period lowers your monthly expenses and increases your cash flow, he adds. Or, if you’ve changed jobs and boosted your income, you may decide to change the frequency and size of your payments.

“When rates were 1.5%, nobody was really itching to pay their mortgage off quickly, but if interest rates stay where they are now—in the 5% range—it does make sense to pay it off faster by changing monthly payments to biweekly, taking advantage of lump sum payments, or doubling up your payments,” says Howie.

These are the things your mortgage expert can walk you through, identifying what makes the most sense for your personal situation. Mortgages shouldn’t be a “set it and forget it” situation. It’s important to keep on top of things to see where and how you can optimize your payments.

10 years into your mortgage: time for some TLC around the house

After 10 years of living in your home, you may be thinking about renovations or repairs. You may want to add the cost of a remodel or a new roof onto your mortgage, or switch the home equity you qualified for over to your mortgage. Reviewing your mortgage with an expert will help give you the bigger picture so you can see what your options are.

15 to 20 years into your mortgage: tapping into your equity

Fifteen to 20 years into your mortgage, you might have kids who are learning to drive, getting ready to go to university or may want to travel for a year—all things parents often help support financially. Or maybe you long to buy a vacation property or retirement.

“Although previous generations had a mentality of paying off debt as fast as possible, for the past 20 years, we’re seeing more people refinancing their mortgage to use funds as investments,” says Howie. He has many clients who leveraged their mortgages to buy rental properties or condos for university-aged children—who then charge rent to their roommates to help pay the mortgage.

“Some people are also thinking about retiring and wondering how to use the equity in their home to buy a cottage or help their children purchase a home.”

After spending the time to build equity in your home, you should be exploring all the options on how it can work best for you. You can also take this time to look at your long-term goals and consider what your priorities are as you near retirement.

Into the home stretch

A mortgage specialist will guide you through your final payment and advise you of any paperwork to be done along the way. Right up to the end, it’s important to maintain good credit so you can have an option to requalify if you need to, advises Howie. He adds that many mortgage brokers reach out to their clients annually to make sure things are going smoothly and any questions are answered.

“We make sure to address any questions or concerns ahead of time, so when the mortgage comes up for renewal, they don’t just sign the renewal; we always see what else is out there.”

Once you’ve paid your last mortgage payment, you still have a few things to do. This process, called discharging a mortgage, also involves your lender and provincial land title registry office. First, you’ll request confirmation from your lender that your mortgage has been paid in full. Then, your notary or lawyer sends these documents to the land registry office so changes can be made to your property’s title. There are fees involved, which vary depending on where you live. Find out what’s required in your province to be sure you’ve followed all the steps.

Your situation in year one of your mortgage is almost guaranteed to be different from your situation in year five, 10, or 20. Regularly looking at your mortgage options—with the help of a mortgage expert—can help save you money in the long run and even achieve some of your goals sooner. If you’re not sure where to start, your REALTOR® will be able to point you in the direction of other trusted professionals.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/checkpoints-you-should-consider-over-the-course-of-your-mortgage/31638/1361

50 Ways to Your Deepest Clean Yet: The Ultimate Fall Cleaning Checklist

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 19:16:00 GMT

Having a fall cleaning checklist seems a little bit like getting tricked into some kind of second spring cleaning. Didn’t you just wash the curtains and wipe down those ceiling fan blades?

But hear me out: Giving your home some extra attention before cozying up inside it for fall and winter means you’ll enjoy that special time at home more than ever. Whether it’s movie night on the couch snuggled in warm blankets or turning on the fireplace and cranking up the music as you sip cold-weather drinks, home is such a big part of the season, and working your way through a fall cleaning checklist is the most straightforward way to get your home ready for it.

So before you transition to spending more time indoors — especially if you’re hosting guests during the holidays — get your home ready for increased habitation with this ultimate fall cleaning checklist.

Kitchen and Bathroom

Clean your kitchen grout.
Clean your bathroom grout.
Clean your refrigerator coils, if applicable.
Clean under your refrigerator.
Clean the inside of your dishwasher.
Clean and condition the wood of your bathroom and kitchen cabinets.
Clean your oven.
Wash and disinfect all the garbage cans.
Seal and/or polish granite countertops.
Wipe down kitchen mats.
Wash bath mats.
Wash the shower curtain.
Deep clean microwave.

Bedroom (and Closet)

Refresh bedding that isn’t regularly washed (comforters, pillows, etc.).
Vacuum and flip mattresses.
Put cold-weather linens on the beds.
Switch out seasonal clothes.
Dust your bed frame. Vacuum or lint roll if it’s upholstered.
Clear off and clean your nightstands.
Vacuum under the bed.
Lint roll lampshades and dust light bulbs and lamp bases.
Polish wooden furniture.
Dust blinds.
Wash curtains.

Living Areas

Vacuum upholstered furniture.
Vacuum under your upholstered furniture cushions.
Polish your wood furniture.
Wash artificial plants.
Dust living plants’ leaves.
Wipe down your screens (TV, computer, etc.).
Clean all keyboards and remote controls.

All Around the House

Wash your walls.
Wash your windows, window sills, and all the window groves.
Clean your washer and dryer.
Clean your doorknobs, doors, and lightswitch plates.
Vacuum under all beds, couches, and other furniture.
Dust the tops of doors and door frames.
Spot clean carpets and rugs.
Clean floors underneath area rugs.
Wash curtains or have them cleaned.
Remove and rinse your window screens.
Wash your washable vacuum cleaner filters.
Clean your baseboards.

Tackle Some Seasonal Maintenance

Change your HVAC air filter.
Replace your fire alarm batteries.
Condition your leather furniture.
Dust your ceiling fans and set them to turn so air circulates upward.
Sweep the chimney and/or have it checked.
Clean out rain gutters.
Check weather stripping and replace as necessary.

Source: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/39-ways-to-your-deepest-clean-yet-the-ultimate-fall-cleaning-checklist-235949

Gillian Atkins’ Top Tips For Modernizing A Dated Principal Bath

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 19:37:00 GMT

Source: https://houseandhome.com/gallery/ask-a-designer-gillian-atkins-top-tips-for-modernizing-a-bathroom/#image-2

Here’s Why You Should Live in Your Home Before Renovating it

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 17:58:00 GMT

Buying a new home is exciting, but depending on where you are on the property ladder, you may not be getting a move-in ready property. Although it can be tempting to jump right in to transform your space, it’s not always a good idea to rip down walls as soon as you close the sale. Here’s why you should put down that sledgehammer and take your time instead.

1. You’ll learn about your home and its pain points

Whether you buy a total fixer-upper, an older home that needs minor updates, or a newly built place you want to personalize, it’s smart to play the waiting game before embarking on major renovations, says David Stevens, a REALTOR® with Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty in Victoria, British Columbia.

“I tell my purchasers I’d like to see them in the house for 12 months before they start renovations, so they get to know the house and the property inside-out. It’s like buying a car: you always test drive a car to see if you like it,” says Stevens.

After living in your home and seeing how it functions during all four seasons, you’ll figure out your priorities. Maybe you’ll notice you need more lighting or realize you have plenty of storage and don’t need custom-made built-ins.

2. You’ll have more time to plan your project

The key to making smart home improvements is in the planning. Allow yourself the chance to meet with several architects, designers, and contractors without the rush to complete a project before you move in.

More planning also helps you stick to a budget, because you can ask questions, compare quotes, speak to references, and figure out what you really need. Working too quickly can lead to poor decision-making and doing things over.

3. You’ll have a better grasp on your finances

Living in your house before ripping it apart also lets you see what you can afford—and what you can’t—because you’ve been paying your mortgage and expenses for a while, says Stevens. After forking out cash for your down payment, closing costs and moving expenses, it’s wise to get back on your feet financially before committing to anything else.

Getting all the work done before you move in comes with huge costs: you could end up having to rent somewhere if there are delays in your renos. Doing things slowly gives you—and your savings account—some breathing room.

4. You’ll probably change your mind (a few times)

You may have thought gutting the kitchen was your top priority when you first bought the house, but once you’ve lived in it, you might end up liking the older wood cabinets and decide to paint them instead of demolishing them. Or, you might see that having a finished basement with a family room and guest suite has become more important to you than redoing the bathroom.

Your perspective will shift once you move into your home, because it’s hard to know how your family will use each space until you actually live there. While test-driving your house, take note of which rooms you spend the most time in and whether there’s something you want to do but can’t—such as entertaining outside or working out in a home gym.

5. You’ll need a break

Buying a home can take its toll: from qualifying for a mortgage to house-hunting to negotiating with the sellers and handling closing costs, the homeowner journey can be a stressful, exhausting one. Maybe after all this—plus packing and moving—you don’t also need the headaches that can accompany a major remodeling project.

Taking time to revive yourselves after purchasing your property can help you think more clearly when you’re ready to make the next set of big decisions: picking what to renovate.

Your REALTOR® can help guide you through these decisions and more, as you enjoy your new home.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/heres-why-you-should-live-in-your-home-before-renovating-it/28881/1367

Selling Your Home in the Winter: How You Can Make the Most of It

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 18:21:00 GMT

From creating a warm, inviting space in your home, to clearing your driveway for potential viewers, to making sure any essential home renovation and repair is complete, we’ve compiled some ways to prepare your home in the winter and help maximize your selling potential.

If you think selling your home in the winter is the same as selling your home in the summer, well, that’s a cold take. Each season has its distinct benefits when it comes to listing a home, so how can you take advantage of the snow and frigid temperatures?

“There’s less competition on the market during these slower months,” she says. “As a seller, you have the focused attention of all the buyers hunting for a home in your area, or even outside your location. When supply is low, demand for your property can be high simply by being the only option.”

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the winter, here are some tips on how to prepare for a successful sale.

Make the most of the outdoors

Landscaping

Despite not being able to appreciate the lusciousness of your garden or lawn in the winter, landscaping shouldn’t be neglected.

“Landscaping is your ultimate first impression,” said van den Broek. “A buyer makes their initial decision of like versus don’t like in approximately 60 seconds, so the walk up or drive by shouldn’t be underestimated. A buyer will feel confident that seasonal maintenance has likely been completed, and that you’ve taken care of your home inside and out.”

As a rule of the proverbial green thumb, remove anything that’s unlikely to survive the winter so there aren’t dead plants in the garden. If you’d like to add plants and shrubs, be sure they’re the evergreen kind such as Blue Holly or Winter Heath. If you have pets, ensure you’ve removed any droppings and yellow snow before potential buyers show up. Even if your area doesn’t get much snow, make sure your front yard is well-kept, with any dead leaves raked up and thrown away.

Clear your driveway and pathway

Shovelling snow is twofold in terms of safety and removing the thoughts buyers conjure up of having to do it themselves. Consider installing solar-powered lights to help illuminate the path and be sure to salt/sand any walking paths to lower the risk of a fall for potential buyers.

Lessen the chances of icicle formation

Icicles are very pretty to look at, but they can wreak havoc on your home. Melted snow from your roof contributes to ice dams being formed in gutters, which in turn can cause water to back up into your home. The formation of icicles can also indicate issues with your roof or ventilation, which could be a red flag to potential buyers. While you can remove small icicles yourself—make sure to take all safety precautions if you need to venture onto the roof–it’s best to leave the removal of larger ones or hard-to-reach icicles to the experts.

Winter-resistant furniture in the front and backyard

Create a welcoming first impression by staging your front porch with durable furniture and winter-resistant blankets and rugs. Warm lighting provided by lanterns that can withstand the cold will also add to the charm. The backyard is just as important, so be sure to shovel patios and decks, and set it up in a way that highlights how the space can be used year-round.

Cleaning the front entrance

This is technically an inside task, but it does involve elements from the outdoors. Salt, dirt, and snow all get tracked into your front entrance in the winter months, which isn’t visually appealing to potential buyers. You only get one chance at a first impression! Clean up any salt and dirt from your front entrance, and keep coats, mittens, boots, etc. in a closet so there’s no clutter when people come in.

Highlight the cozy indoor appeal

Create a warm and inviting space

“Selling in the winter months gives home sellers an opportunity to create a very welcoming, cozy vibe to their space,” van den Broek explains. “Staging works, and winter is certainly a time to get creative. Ensure the home is at a comfortable temperature, and if there’s a fireplace, make sure it’s turned on, or lit if it’s wood. We always use candles at our open houses in the winter time, nicely scented like gingerbread, baking, apples, or pine.”

“Having a tray of treats always makes buyers feel at home, and if it’s closer to the holidays some decorated cookies or candy canes for kids. The more your house feels like a home, the more a buyer will start to feel AT home!”

Did you know the World Health Organization recommends a range of 20 C to 22 C as the ideal temperature in your home to maintain overall good health and wellbeing? Aim for this temperature during an open house to keep things comfortable. No need to go too warm—people will likely be wearing jackets!

Round off any essential renovations

Be proactive with ensuring cosmetic renovations such as chipped paint and drafty windows are complete prior to listing your home. For van den Broek there are some common red flags buyers look for when purchasing a home in the winter. These include:

leaking window seals;
condensation inside the window panes, which can indicate humidity is too high in the house;
drafty windows and doors;
temperature differences in basement rooms;
no snow on the roof, which could indicate insulation issues in the attic;
back drafts of a smoky ash smell from a wood-burning fireplace; and
cracked corners of the foundation which can indicate a structural issue.

Sealing windows to reduce air leaks, adding further insulation where required to prevent drafts, ensuring the weather stripping around your front door has no leaks, checking the insulation levels in your attic, and updating old furnaces can be beneficial upgrades for homeowners and enticing for potential buyers. If possible, consider having your furnace serviced by an HVAC professional to be certain everything is in tip-top shape.

Certain provinces are currently offering rebates to improve your home’s energy efficiency, which could help with the costs of some of these repairs or updates. For example, Enbridge is offering Ontarians “up to $5,000 in rebates for insulation, air sealing, new windows/doors, water heaters, boilers, furnaces, and home energy assessments.” British Columbia has a similar program through BetterHomesBC for up to $6,000. Check with your provincial energy provider to see what’s available to you!

Embrace neutral seasonal décor

If you’re planning festive celebrations, it’s best to avoid flashing lights and large decorations that could shrink the size of your space, as well as overtly religious ornaments.

“For outside it’s nice to have some winter décor welcoming buyers to the property—a simple wreath, flower pots with birch branches and twinkle lights, solar powered walkway lights, and pay attention to overall lighting outside.”

Showcase your home’s versatility

Even when you’ve succeeded in transforming the exterior and interior of your home to be both charming and inviting, if possible, show photos from other seasons in your listing because, the more guesswork you take out of the equation, the more a buyer can make an informed decision they feel comfortable with.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/selling-your-home-in-the-winter-how-you-can-make-the-most-of-it/29038/1363

Design Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 17:57:00 GMT

Looking to update your home’s interior style in 2023? If you’re thinking about sprucing up your home décor, you might be paying attention to what’s in and what’s out.

Each of the following design trends provides an opportunity for you to explore what décor is most in line with your own style. Trends are a great way to glean inspiration, not necessarily dictate your entire home design. From dark and moody colours to bold marble and curves, learn more about some of the trends that are predicted to dominate 2023.

Moody jewel tones

Interior design is all about creating a certain feeling in a space. One of the quickest ways to do that is through the use of colour. According to HGTV, there are some dark, moody colours trending for 2023 that can create an intimate, cozy feeling, while still maintaining a sense of sophistication. Think rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or chocolate brown. Or go for a classic look with a deep navy. These colours can be used on walls, floors, furniture, accessories, or even the ceiling. They can be paired with lighter, brighter colours or wood tones to create a stunning contrast. If you’re looking to create a space with a bit of drama and intrigue in 2023, consider using dark, moody colours—you won’t be disappointed with the results.

Mixing wood tones

Wood tones are a popular choice in interior design for 2023 according to Joana Rittmayer, associate designer and project manager at Laura Yeager Smith Home & Design—and it’s easy to see why. Wood has a warm, natural quality that can make any space feel more inviting. Plus, there are so many different wood tones to choose from; you can easily find one that fits your style. Do you want a rustic look? A modern vibe? Something in between? There’s a wood for that!

The use of oak in interior design varies from cabinetry to furniture to flooring. Its clean and neutral colour allows it to be used in a variety of interior styles from modern farmhouse to Scandinavian.
The classic appearance of cedar lends itself well to furniture and wall cladding. The style can be found in a variety of traditional and classic interiors.
The availability of pine makes it a budget-friendly option. Depending on the finishing colour, pine can be used in Scandinavian, rustic, contemporary, and modern-style interiors.
Beech wood lends itself well to coastal or modern interiors due to its straight grain and uniform texture. It has a pale creamish colour and a uniform texture.
Known for its hardiness and resistance to decay, cherry wood has a very distinctive appearance. Cherry is an ideal choice for interior settings, including balconies, terraces, covered decks, and patios because it resists decay.
Generally, walnut wood is dark chocolate brown or pale brown with darker streaks of brown. The sophisticated appearance of walnut is perfect for both traditional and modern furniture and architectural millwork.
And don’t be afraid to mix tones. Try pairing a rich walnut chair with your white oak floors—it’s a great way to make a space feel collected, inviting, and charming.

Luxurious fabrics

Wall Sauce is predicting luxurious-looking fabrics will help create an atmosphere of opulence and refinement in 2023. Silks, velvets, and brocades are all excellent choices for adding a bit of luxury to your home. When using luxurious-looking fabrics in your space, it’s important to remember less is more. A small amount can go a long way! Try a velvet couch, silk throw pillows, or brocade curtains to add elegance to your space. Use luxurious-looking fabrics strategically in your design to make the most impact.

Bold statement stone

Bold slabs of stone such as marble or quartz can make quite a statement, so says designer Hilary Matt. It can be used in a variety of ways, from flooring to countertops, backsplashes, showers, and even wall cladding. Love the look but not the price tag? Start small with a coffee table or fireplace surround—it’s a smaller-scale way to experiment with this trend and add some visual interest to your room.

Art deco

For those who wish they could live in The Great Gatsby, art deco is making a comeback! Art deco is a popular choice for many interiors due to its unique and eye-catching style. This design movement originated in the 1920s and is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, bold colours, zigzag patterns, metallic finishes, and sleek lines. When used in interior design, art deco can add a touch of glamour and drama to any space. Experiment with art deco in a primary bedroom by using geometric wallpaper or in a walk-in closet with a wall of gold-trimmed mirrors. Looking for something that isn’t so permanent? Add art deco inspired accessories such as symmetrical scones, starburst coffee table, or an animal print runner to your space.

Functionally designed mudrooms

Mudrooms are no longer just a place to hang your coat and store your boots. Increasingly, homeowners are using this space to make a style statement according to designer Amy Youngblood. One of the most critical aspects of designing a mudroom is storage. You’ll need a place for all that outdoor gear, so include plenty of hooks, shelves, and baskets to keep the clutter away. Another important consideration is flooring. Mudrooms get a lot of abuse from dirty shoes, boots and paws, so it’s important to choose a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. By adding a few key pieces and paying attention to the overall design, you can create a mudroom that is stylish, functional, and totally on-trend for 2023.

Intentional rooms and spaces

Interior designer and HGTV star Shay Holland says while open-concept floor plans have been popular for many years, people are now looking for more privacy or rooms dedicated for a certain purpose. Despite open floorplan living allowing for plenty of flexibility, family members often share the communal area for different reasons at the same time. Have you ever taken a conference call in your living room while your family watches TV? It’s less than ideal. In 2023, expect to see a greater number of intentional spaces designed for specific needs like home offices, wellness rooms, and craft rooms.

Other trends of note for 2023

Home offices: the work-from-home environment is still prominent, which means many people need a dedicated space for focus and privacy.
Double kitchen islands: larger or double kitchen islands will become a kitchen must-have for those looking to host and entertain more in the new year.
Coastal grandma: this design trend from 2022 will continue into 2023, bringing with it comfort and coziness. It focuses on pastoral patterns and rural artwork to add a poetic touch to interiors. Think any movie set designed by Nancy Meyers.
Alcoves and niches: for centuries, niches and alcoves have been used to showcase artwork, especially sculptures. Nowadays, they add space-saving interest or a place to highlight décor or furniture.
Curves: modernist curves are an excellent alternative to straight lines in your home. Try adding round pillows and accessories, as well as curved upholstery. Arches and curved architecture will also be popular in 2023.
Thrifting and upcycling: what’s old, is new! Head to a consignment store or antique market to pick up a unique piece to refinish.

Your home should reflect your personal style, and that can include incorporating current trends. Reach for those dark and moody colours, patterns, and textures. Think outside the box when it comes to furniture and accessories. Be fearless when it comes to mixing and matching different styles. And most importantly, have fun with it!

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/design-trends-to-watch-out-for-in-2023/29256/1367

16 Budget-Friendly Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:52:00 GMT

First impressions are always important! From handsome new house numbers to charming patio lights, here's how to boost your home's curb appeal—without breaking the bank.

1. Add some lights

Outdoor lighting can make a world of difference when it comes to boosting your home’s curb appeal. Add some solar lights along the front walkway or some low-voltage lights near your front flower bed.

2. Paint the front door

A fresh coat of paint on your front door can give your home a whole new look, and better curbside appeal. Try red for a classic look or a bright orange for something a bit unexpected.

3. Add flower pots

A couple of well-placed flower pots on your doorstep will make for a cheery front entrance. Potted plants offer a much more welcoming environment.

4. Update house numbers

Give your house number a makeover. People look for your address more than you may think as they drive by. Replace your old numbers with an updated metal or wood design to update the curb appeal.

5. Plant shrubs or a tree

A couple of shrubs or a new tree will instantly enhance your curb appeal. Much like potted plants, trees and shrubs will add a welcoming quality to your home.

6. Keep your lawn tidy

One of the easiest ways to maintain curb appeal is to keep your lawn tidy, and that includes the edging around your walkways and flower beds.

7. Attract Some Birds

Humans aren’t the only things you want to find your home attractive. Appeal to a variety of birds to your yard with a birdhouse or bird feeder.

8. Update your mailbox

Give your mailbox an update with a colourful paint job, or replace it entirely with these DIY instructions for building your own mailbox.

9. Add window boxes

Window boxes will bring a splash of colour to the front of your home and add quick curbside appeal. Plant perky pansies or cascading flowers such as petunias. You can even use the boxes to grow herbs.

10. Paint shutters and trim

When was the last time you painted your window shutters? What about your exterior trim? A simple update will add plenty of curb appeal.

11. Hang a wreath

Welcome guests to your home with a wreath. Whether you purchase a wreath or make it yourself, wreaths allow you to change the look of your front entryway as often as you like.

12. Put down new mulch

Mulch is an inexpensive way to tidy up flower beds and shrubs while also reducing evaporation and slowing weed growth. Get a couple bags of mulch to freshen up the area around the front of your home.

13. Install a porch light

Look for a pretty light fixture to hang at the front door. You could also mount a couple light sconces near the entryway.

14. Tidy up hoses

A tangled garden hose is not only frustrating, but it looks messy, too. Nobody wants to see your gardening equipment thrown all over the yard.

15. Update door hardware

Does your door hardware need a makeover? Add curbside appeal by replacing old door knobs and knockers or give it an update with stain or paint.

16. Add some seating

Create a welcoming spot to relax by adding a couple chairs to your front porch or yard.

Source: https://www.readersdigest.ca/home-garden/home-improvement/budget-friendly-curb-appeal/
Photo: pexels.com

The Power of Colour | What's your go-to colour?

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 17:31:00 GMT

Colour can make us calmer, more energized, improve our concentration, create the illusion of space, and even increase our appetites. Homeowners can use colour to highlight features of their home and enhance spaces for relaxation, socializing, studying, creative pursuits, and dining.

First, what is colour?
The Crayola company, which knows a thing or two about colour, explains it this way: “Color is the aspect of things that is caused by differing qualities of light being reflected or emitted by them.” To see colour, you need light. Sunlight contains every colour of the rainbow, so it is known as white light. When it shines on an object, some colors bounce off the object and others are absorbed by it. Our eyes only see the reflected colors.

A white surface appears white to us because it absorbs no color and reflects all color equally. A black surface absorbs all colors equally and reflects none, so it looks black.

Each colour in on a different wavelength. The longest wavelength of light that humans can see is red. The shortest is violet. Colours can look different under artificial light.

Applying the theory
Since colours change depending on the light source, products may look different at home than they do at the store. Request samples of paint, flooring, etc. and try them out at home under natural and artificial light at various times of the day.

How colours affect us
Imagine you are standing in front of a wall of paint chips at the store. You probably like some options and dislike others. What you may not realize is that your preferences are rooted in physiology, cultural, fashion. For example, white is a colour of purity and peace in Western culture but one of mourning in Asian cultures.

Red a fascinating colour. It generates strong reactions, so much so that it can even increase heart rate. In one study, students who waited in a room painted red scored lower on their exams than a control group in an off-white room (Vetter 2019). In many countries, traffic signs are red and signify danger. But then again, red roses are romantic. As well, red (and orange) are known to increase appetite.

Many studies have been conducted on colour; one of the most ingenious and comprehensive of these considered 443 university students living on campus over several months (Costa 2018). Six separate residences were identical except the interior of each was painted in a different colour. Within each building, some rooms were painted in lighter or darker shades of that same colour. Researchers made three discoveries: blue was the most popular; light blue and light green have a calming effect and improve concentration; and white ceilings made rooms seem more spacious.

How we respond to colour

In general, we tend to have specific responses to colours (WebMD 2021):

Red: energy, warmth, motivation, and comfort
Orange: confidence, warmth, and creativity
Yellow: happiness, creativity, mental stimulation, and communication
‌Green: calm, optimism, balance, and problem-solving
Blue: tranquility, productivity, and peace
Purple: calming yet uplifting, creativity, and inspiration

Using colour in your home
Accessories, artwork, flowers, furniture, cabinetry, and appliances are easy ways to add punches of colour to your home. For wall colour, you may wish to choose pale shades because full intensity can be overwhelming. Strong colours can work well on accent walls. Dark colours can make a space look smaller.

Studying and relaxation: Pale blue and green are good choices for an office, study spaces and bedrooms.

Dining and fitness: Touches of red, orange and yellow are stimulating.

Art and hobby areas: Enhance your creativity with yellow, blue, green, or purple as well as natural light.

With a very small investment of effort and money, you can harness the power of colour in your home.

Sources:

Costa, M. et al. “Interior Color and Psychological Functioning in a University Residence Hall.” Front Psychol. 2018; 9: 1580. Published online 2018 Aug 28. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6120989.

Crayola. Accessed 2021. “Color – What is Color?” https://www.crayola.com/for-educators/resources-landing/articles/color-what-is-color.aspx.

Vetter, Clara. Neurofied Brain & Behaviour Academy. 2019. “The effects of colors on behavior.” https://neurofied.com/effects-of-color-on-behavior.

Clayton, Emily, medically reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS. 2021. “How to Choose the Best Paint for Your Home.” https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/color-psychology.

Main Source of this blog: https://www.sutton.com/blog/home-improvement/the-power-of-colour

4 Options for Financing Your Home Renovations

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 15:57:00 GMT

If your family home lacks space but you don’t want to move, you’ll be joining thousands of other Canadians who have chosen to renovate their properties. Whether you’re adding an extension, overhauling your kitchen, or knocking down walls to create better flow, you can likely count on one thing: you’re about to embark on an expensive project. Don’t fret if your dreams are bigger than your budget—there are a lot of ways to finance home renovations. While it may be tempting to borrow money, just remember you’ll have to pay that loan back, so be sure to make a plan that factors in the potential of further interest rate increases. Here’s how you can pay for upgrades to your property.

1. Take out a personal loan or borrow from family and friends

Generally, a personal loan carries a lower interest rate than a credit card. You can borrow a lump sum, repaying it over a set period. Typically, you’d pay monthly installments over one to five years, but it all depends on your lender and the terms you agree to. After you’ve repaid the loan, you’ll have to reapply if you want to borrow more money.

Borrowing from family and friends might seem easy, but it can cause stress if you don’t have a detailed and firm repayment plan. It can make it easier to get the money right away with few strings attached, but be aware of the strain it could end up putting on your relationship if both parties have differing opinions on what the repayment plan should look like. Oftentimes, people will put together a sort of “contract” that lays out the repayment terms and takes a lot of the emotion out of borrowing from family.

2. Refinance your mortgage

With a better interest rate than a credit card or personal loan, some homeowners seek to finance their renovations by refinancing the terms of their existing mortgage. This way, you can borrow more money and pay lower monthly installments over a longer term. Refinancing your mortgage means adding more money to the total you have already borrowed from your bank or lender. It has a lower interest rate because your mortgage is secured by the equity in your home.

While it’s fairly easy to qualify for mortgage refinancing, it’s best to do it when your mortgage is up for renewal. Otherwise, you may be charged fees.

3. Open a line of credit

For a long-term renovation project, you can open a personal line of credit through banks or credit unions, which lets you access money as you need it. You only pay interest on the funds you withdraw, and interest rates are lower than on a credit card. You may borrow funds multiple times up to the line of credit’s limit, as long as you keep making regular payments. If you have good credit, you can qualify for a line of credit with your lender.

4. Get a home equity loan

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) offers a flexible, low-interest loan option. Here’s how it works: You can borrow a sum that totals up to 80% of the assessed value of your home when it’s added to what you have left on your mortgage principal. This means if you still owe $250,000 on your $500,000 home, you can qualify for a HELOC of up to $150,000. You’re tapping into your home equity to access funds.

You can use these funds for anything—including renovations—and, as you pay off the HELOC, that credit is replenished. Just be careful not to keep withdrawing money as if it’s a bank account. You can also ask your lender to limit the available funds—just because you can access $150,000, doesn’t mean you should if your renovation project will cost less than the amount available. To get the most competitive interest rate, you may want to work with a mortgage broker. Since HELOCs are tied to your home’s equity, you’ll pay set-up costs and legal fees.

Other ideas

Municipal, provincial and federal governments also offer a range of home renovation tax credits, grants and incentives, allowing you to deduct part of your remodeling expenses from your taxes. There are also rebates available for energy-saving renovations.

Talk to your lender to figure out which financing option is right for you. They can explain how much you can borrow and go over the process to pre-approve your renovation financing. Your REALTOR® may also have recommendations and contacts who can provide insight into your situation. Remember, while remodeling can cost a lot of money, it can boost your property value while also allowing you to better enjoy your home.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/4-options-for-financing-your-home-renovations/26166/1363
Photo: pexels.com

Making the Most of Your Kids’ Shared Bedroom

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:04:00 GMT

If you grew up with a brother or sister—or 10—you know how rewarding, comforting, and sometimes frustrating sibling relationships can be. This may be especially true when siblings have to share a bedroom. There are many reasons why a shared room is necessary, be it a limited number of rooms in the home, a child who needs a roommate for comfort, or a family member has moved in with you.

Plato famously stated, “necessity is the mother of invention,” and this situation is no different, as it presents the opportunity to create a delightful space with your kids at minimal cost, and without needing to renovate. Let’s look at some ways to approach setting up a shared bedroom.

Get the kids involved

The best way to ensure your youngins are fully onboard with this transition is to involve them with every step, provided they’re old enough to help. Even if they are unhappy about the change, including them can help overcome any misgivings and get them excited about how their space is going to look.

Set them up for success

The biggest challenge will be dealing with small rooms. For clutter prevention, plan for ample storage options for each child’s toys, books, and craft supplies. Setting the kids up to maintain a tidy room easily will make a big difference. If space is looking really tight, don’t be shy about resorting to under-the-bed storage, or get creative with how you utilize wall space. Tall shelving units (secured to the wall), floating shelves, and strategically placed hooks can all help keep their space tidy.

Sibling rivalry

If siblings with differing interests share a bedroom, give them a sense of their own territory by dividing the room in half. This is one case where choosing sides is OK! They’ll likely have widely differing décor preferences, so get their input on arrangement and accessories.

Have the kids choose their favourite colours or patterns and then team up to divide the room—they’ll love helping measure, paint, or apply wallpaper. Use different furniture styles and colours for each child to accentuate their uniqueness.

Placing dressers or a bookshelf where the room is divided helps delineate each zone. If you use a bookshelf for this, make sure to separate their books accordingly. Get the children to choose cushiony throw rugs to go next to their beds for a soft landing on chilly mornings.

Privacy can be a concern, so a bed tent or canopy can accomplish this for sleep, while a simple room divider in a corner can provide ample privacy for getting dressed.

Alternatively, put their beds close together in the middle of the room so they each have a dedicated space on opposite sides. Placing a night stand with their choice of lamp next to each bed allows quick access to a light when needed.

Siblings of the same or similar age

With twins, or children born only a few years apart, separating the space may not be as difficult, as their interests will very likely overlap in areas. This provides an opportunity to blend their shared and individual interests together for a bedroom bursting with personality.

Bunk beds are an excellent space-saver, especially for small rooms. Make sure your children are over the age of six, for safety purposes, though you can keep some bunks separated on the floor until the kids are old enough to stack them.

Decals related to their favourite movies, shows, and games are a perfect way to make the walls pop. Since they can be removed easily, you can update them as their interests change, keeping the décor fresh.

The wall across from a bunk makes a prime spot for artwork, while shelves above the dressers provide ideal display potential for books, models, or various forest walk discoveries.

Older and younger siblings

This can be the trickiest scenario, especially when your older child is a tween or teen. The younger brother or sister will most likely be thrilled at the prospect, given how much they look up to their senior counterpart, but the excitement may not be shared.

You’ll want to approach this one in a similar fashion as the siblings with differing interests scenario. Take this one step further by getting your older child to help develop and execute a plan to create a space they love—a wonderful DIY opportunity.

Consider a loft bed, or building a mini-loft so your tween or teen can have both a comfy space to sleep, and a private nook for homework or gaming.

It’s also advisable to place the younger sibling’s bed closest to the door as they usually wake earlier in the morning and can vacate the room without disturbing their older sister or brother too much.

Note: Double-up on the loft bed and desk option if you have two pre-teen or teenage children of similar age!

The baby of the house

If you wait a few years between children, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself with a school-age child needing to share with a baby sibling. This is a huge adjustment for them, and they’ll feel most included if they get to help with selecting décor for both their younger protégé’s portion of the room and their own, while also getting to assist with putting it all together.

No matter the age difference between your children, a shared kids room means opportunities to play and create together, building strong bonds—after all, they’ll be siblings for life.

While this kind of change can be difficult to accept for some children, it’s a great opportunity for the whole family to get involved with a fun project. Just be patient, don’t sweat the small stuff, and most of all, enjoy the journey.

Source: https://www.creacafe.ca/making-the-most-of-your-kids-shared-bedroom/
Photo: pexels.com

Painting or Staining? Your Guide to Deck Revitalization

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Nothing embodies summertime in Canada more than hanging out on your deck, grilling, sipping cold drinks, and making memories with family and friends.

Like other areas of your home, your deck does need to be cared for regularly to ensure it lasts long enough to keep the good times rolling season after season. Keeping your deck in tip-top condition is another way to maintain curb appeal—just ask a REALTOR®!

In addition to keeping your deck free from dirt and debris, you should consider painting or staining it. The added layer of product protects your deck from moisture, mould, bugs, sun, and other harsh elements. Changing the colour of the wood is also an easy way to revitalize your deck without a total overhaul.

Let’s look at how you can paint or stain on your own (or with some friends!) and end up with a new look you’ll love for the entire summer.

Painting versus staining

Not all decks are made equal. You’ll need to brush up on your knowledge of wood boards, paints, and stains to make sure your deck refurbishing or rebuilding project is a success.

“Making a choice between paint and stain isn’t just a matter of preference. Many factors, including wood type, weather, foot traffic, budget, and style come into play,” says Emmett Wallace, owner of Dub’s Construction, which specializes in indoor and outdoor home renovations.

Below are four key steps to guide your summer deck revival project.

Step 1: Confirm the material

Before you decide between paint or stain, you should determine what material your deck is made from as not all materials can be painted or stained.

Wood types

Cedar, redwood pine, and treated lumber are the most common materials for decks. These woods take paint and stain well, and they are resistant to rot. Cedar and redwood are pricier than their counterparts, so consider using stain on them if you want to maintain the visual integrity of the wood. Painting treated lumber is a more affordable option with more colour choices.

Non-wood types

Vinyl, IPE, composite, and recycled plastic decks are gaining in popularity. These non-wood materials are easy to maintain and come in several colours—though they can often carry a heftier price tag than wood. The con? They don’t accept stain or paint. If you’re unsure about your deck’s material, call in a professional to help.

Step 2: Make a choice

Once you’ve confirmed your deck can, in fact, be painted or stained, it’s time to consider the pros and cons of each product.

Paint pros

Best for decks that don’t get a lot of foot traffic, especially since paint can be slippery
Hides the wood grain and imperfections
Comes in a variety of colours and finishes
Easy to maintain and keep clean
Can last 10 years or longer
More resistant to fading caused by heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays

Paint cons

Requires more prep, including layers of preservative and primer
Takes longer to cover entire deck
Thicker consistency is more likely to blot
Difficult to change from paint to stain
Must be coated with a clear sealer

Stain pros

Great for decks that receive lots of foot traffic
More budget-friendly per gallon
Gives a natural look and enhances the wood grain
Easy to apply
Can be easily painted over
Lighter consistency applies evenly and is less likely to blot
Available in two-in-one stain and stealer formula
Can last up to eight years

Stain cons

More prone to fading caused by heat and UV rays
Colour options are limited
More difficult to maintain and keep clean

Step 3: Select a product

By now, you should know what your deck needs, and all that remains is to purchase the paint or stain. In terms of cost, one 3.7-litre can of deck stain or paint can range from $16 to $66, depending on the brand, transparency, and retailer. For a deck about 550 square feet in size, you’ll need approximately two cans to complete the job.

Let’s explore the different types of products you’ll encounter at the hardware store.

Paint types

If you opt for paint based on your wood type and maintenance needs, you should consider a product formulated for outdoor use. This type of paint will usually contain UV protectants and other additives to protect the surface long term. Pick an oil-based paint best suited for floors. Oil paint protects the deck from moisture and has a longer lifespan than water-based paint.

Be sure to grab a preservative and primer to protect the wood, and that you have a smooth base to paint over. You’ll also need a polyurethane sealer to keep the paint intact.

Stain types

Stains come in a range of pigments, from transparent to opaque. The higher the opacity, the more durable the stain. High-pigment stains provide protection from moisture and UV damage. Many stain brands are formulated with preservatives, so you don’t need additional primer. You may require a clear sealer, but opting for a two-in-one product can save you that final step.

Once you’ve landed on a stain or paint to use, you’ll also need to gather:

bristle brushes;
rollers;
a roller tray;
a stain pad;
a bucket;
stirring sticks; and
cloths (for cleanup)

Step 4: Do the prep

You’re all set on the product front, but the real work starts now. Staining or painting your deck requires a bit of prep to make the application easier. You don’t want to rush the cleaning, sanding and priming phase of this work because it’s what helps the paint or stain go on smoothly and stay there

“Don’t forget to check the forecast for the week,” advises Wallace. “Always be sure to pick a clear day with low humidity and no chance of rain because moisture is your enemy.”

You should only paint or stain your deck when the moisture level is low. The general rule of thumb is that wood surfaces should have no more than 15% moisture. A great way to test your deck’s moisture level is by pouring a bit of water onto the wood. If it beads up, the wood is too wet to paint or stain. If the water is easily absorbed, you’re good to go. Be sure to wait for days when the humidity outdoors is between 40% and 70%—any higher could affect drying quality and time. As far as primers are concerned, use a shellac-based formula if working with paint. You can skip this step when using stain.

If your deck has surface cracks and other easy-to-fix imperfections, you can fill them with an exterior-grade wood filler before you sand the surface in the direction of the wood grain. If your deck needs more serious repairs, you should schedule an assessment with a professional.

Once you begin to apply the paint or stain, give each coat a few hours to dry. How quickly the coats dry depends on the temperature outside and the size of your deck. In a nutshell, give yourself two to three days to get the job done.

While these tips are for anyone looking to update their deck, they can also be applied to new decks that haven’t been painted or stained. Just keep in mind if you’ve recently installed pressure treated boards “you should wait six months to a year before staining or painting it,” says Wallace. “This is because this type of material is typically installed soaking wet.”

There’s quite a lot of effort that goes into upgrading your deck’s appearance, but it’s a project that’ll leave you feeling accomplished. Add to this all of the warm, sunny days you’ll get to enjoy from your very own backyard oasis and you’ve got a summertime DIY activity that’s hard to resist.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/painting-or-staining-your-guide-to-deck-revitalization/26128/1367
Photo: pexels.com

Setting Up a Backyard Movie Night

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 17:03:00 GMT

During those beautiful summer nights, it doesn’t matter where you are in Canada, you want to be outside. It’s natural, and let’s face it, the past few years have driven many to upgrade their own backyard retreats, so you’ve got a good reason to be out and about in your own space.

Upcycling and repurpose trends show no sign of abating, and we’ve already seen signs of the backyard undergoing radical redesigns, adding features like pizza ovens, outdoor kitchens, and bars. Why not extend that idea and bring your home theatre outside? What says summer better than a drive-in (or walk-in) movie night? In the spirit of the popular staycation trend, let’s look at how you can set up a backyard movie night.

The scale is up to you. It can be as simple as moving a TV onto a balcony or as elaborate as a dedicated outdoor cinema with surround sound and your own version of a concession stand. Be mindful of your surroundings, of course, since the light and sound could impact your neighbours. You may be able to land in their good books, though, with VIP invitations to opening night!

The basics

As with any backyard project, a little planning keeps your outdoor theatre on track. To show your film, you must address four main technical aspects:

projection;
screen;
sound; and
streaming or viewing devices.

Moving a flat-screen television to your cinema site solves the first three aspects easily. Your TV handles everything. If you have a smart TV, a streaming service, and your wi-fi signal reaches your outdoor screen, then it’s all taken care of except for the popcorn and seating.

That’s great for an improvised Saturday night showing, but this is your taste of Hollywood at home! Going big makes your movie a special event. A bigger setup may also be a launch pad for weekly events through the summer months. Let’s look at each of your tech needs.

Projection

From cheaper hundred-dollar options to thousand-dollar light cannons, there are plenty of projectors to fit all budgets. Your projector is likely the biggest budget item for your theatre, but you do have options. Check with audio-visual services in your area or try an online search for video projector rentals to manage costs. In terms of quality, you’ll want to look for a projector with between 2,000 and 2,500 lumens.

Don’t forget to scope out your electrical requirements, too. Make sure you have suitable access to power or extension cords that can handle the power needed.

Screen

Your theatre could be equipped with a white bed sheet pulled as flat as you can make it, but you’ll get better results with a purpose-made projection screen. These are usually crease resistant, so you’ll have a flatter surface, and their reflectivity is higher than your average bed sheet, enhancing the visual experience. Screens of various sizes are surprisingly affordable.

If you have a large, flat surface, perhaps the rear wall of a garage or the side of a shed, hang a piece of plywood that’s been treated with projector screen paint. That’s right, screen paints are a specialty product that makes it much easier to create a permanent theatre. It may be the answer if you plan to start a summer movie club!

Sound

Wireless Bluetooth systems are perhaps the most versatile way to go unless you already have a suitable outdoor speaker system. The key to a good sound presentation is balance, particularly if your theatre is in a tight suburban neighbourhood. You want a volume that’s loud enough to overcome traffic and environment noise, but not so loud as to disturb others. Remember, too, that long summer days mean your movie night may have a late start after sundown.

Streaming and viewing devices

Your options here may depend on the capabilities of your projector. Some pair easily to smartphones and laptops, so all your streaming options are still accessible. Many projectors also accept video connections from DVD and Blu-ray players. You might even want to dust off the VCR for one last viewing of those VHS tapes in the basement.

Seating

If your audience is comfortable on a blanket on the lawn, then seating is easy. Otherwise, it’s time to gather camp chairs, patio sets, or whatever you can rummage that will be comfortable over the course of your viewing event.

Another fun option if you have a pool is setting giant floaties and watching from the water. This is perfect for really hot summer nights, although it may make snacking a little difficult.

If you’re hosting the event for kids, you could set up a “drive-in” movie with cardboard “cars” for each child to sit in, complete with blankets and individual snacks inside. Plus, it helps keep everybody settled for the whole movie.

Food and drink

Food and beverages are perhaps the most fun to plan. Depending on who’s enjoying the movie, you can cater specifically to their tastes. For kids (or the more traditional movie watchers among us), popcorn, candy, soft drinks, juice, and even things like warm pretzels can be perfect. Set up a small table in the yard with everyone’s favourites and let people help themselves. Or, pre-pack snacks into little baggies or boxes so each person can grab one on the way to their seat.

If you’re planning an adults-only night, you can up the ante with more appetizer-style foods and cocktails. You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of coolers and ice nearby, as well as a full selection of drinks for your guests.

No matter who’s coming over, easy-to-find garbage and recycling receptacles are a must. This will help expedite cleanup later on and prevent garbage from finding its way onto your lawn.

Bits and bobs

If your yard has unwelcome guests in the form of flying and biting insects, don’t forget bug repellent (sprays, candles, or other devices) and covers for any food items that will be hanging around.

Summer nights can cool down quickly, too, so watch the forecast. Have blankets or sweaters at the ready in case a chill sets in. You can also extend movie season into the fall with propane area heaters.

It may also be fun for the kiddos to have a full “camping” experience outdoors. Consider setting up tents and sleeping bags so the outdoor fun doesn’t have to end when the credits roll.

If the availability of streamed content has made indoor movie night ho-hum, invest in your backyard cinema and have another reason to anticipate the return of summer each year.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/setting-up-a-backyard-movie-night/26146/1367
Photo: pexels.com

What to Plant in July (Because It’s Not too Late to Start Gardening)

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:27:00 GMT

As the steamy month of July begins, a lot of gardeners concentrate their efforts on caring for and maintaining their existing gardens — not adding more plants. But there’s value in continuing your planting into July, and nurturing new, fledgling plants alongside your mature gardens. While it may seem like the plant selection at your favorite plant nursery is dwindling, now is actually the best time to go hunting for plant sales. You’ll find many plants at a discount this time of summer, not to mention seeds and other gardening gear. Don’t fool yourself into thinking the planting season is over after May, or that you’re stuck doing only maintenance rather than planting. There are still options you can get in the ground this month!

Of course, the offerings will vary from agricultural zone to zone, but the plants on this list will thrive in most. Just remember that when you’re planting in the heat of summer, you should try to do your work in the cooler mornings and evenings. Like people, plants don’t like the heat — and they tend to stress if they are transplanted and moved in the full sun of a hot day. (If you’re looking to experiment with planting something delicate in July, be sure to do your research first.) Below, five great picks worth adding to your garden this month.

Pricey Perennials for a Bargain

One of my favorite things to do in July is to go perennial hunting at my local garden center. This is the time that those high-dollar, must-have plants are marked down. At this point in the season most of those plants have been sitting out, day after day, exposed to the elements. They probably don’t look so great because they’re still in their plastic planter’s pots, which makes them even more difficult for the nurseries to move. The general buyer doesn’t want to buy a crispy looking plant — but their loss is your gain.

You’ll be able to find all kinds of perennials marked down, sometimes more than half-price. For instance, last year my mom and I found “Vanilla Strawberry” hydrangeas, which are typically priced around $40, for $10 apiece at a big box store garden center. This is also a great time to get deals on other perennials such as:

Rose bushes
Grasses
Hostas
Daylilies

These plants might look a little worse for wear right now, but when you clean them up and plant them you will be rewarded next year! Perennials have a remarkable ability to bounce back the following year after being exposed to stress.

You can also start thinking about picking up spring-blooming perennials, which in some zones can be planted in the late summer or early fall.

Basil and Kale

Basil and kale are both hardy enough to be planted during July. I know gardeners who have had success both planting plants as well as seeds, so it’s definitely worth a try. If you’re looking for seeds, any garden center should still have them. If you’re looking to buy mature plants, you might have to hunt a bit, but they’re likely still out there.

Both basil and kale thrive when planted in the ground as well as in container gardens. They’re wonderful companion plants, no matter when or where you choose to grow them. Each plant is relatively compact, so they might be a great option to replace any annuals that didn’t make it through the start of summer.

Of course, both of these plants are edibles, but they’re also beautiful enough to grow just for show (just in case cooking isn’t your forte).

Succulents

During my gardening career I have found that succulents tend to be the easiest replacement for annuals that didn’t make it in the heat, or for failed seeds that didn’t germinate.

As long as they have part-sun exposure, succulents will be fine outdoors for the summer. You won’t have to worry about watering them as much as other parts of your garden and you will undoubtedly find that they will grow very quickly, which will be quite the surprise for folks who have succulents indoors. Here are some great options for outdoor succulent planting:

Sedum stonecrop
Echeveria
Hens and chicks
Haworthia

One of the best parts about using succulents in your garden is that when it starts to get chilly outside, you can transplant them into a planter and take them inside. Really, it’s like a two-for-one!

Quick-Growing Annuals

Get quick-germinating annual seeds in the ground this month and you’ll see blooms by August. A favorite pick? Zinnias, which are the workhorses of the garden. These provide bright, substantial blooms all summer long no matter how hot it is.

The market is also saturated with all different kinds of varieties, from funky heirlooms to bold blooms with large heads. If you want big color and big blooms but are unsure of what to plant, zinnias will not disappoint. They’re also a wonderful cut flower, so once they’ve grown, snip a few stems and bring them inside for your favorite vase. And good news: Zinnias are nontoxic to dogs and cats.

Other quick-growing seeds to plant this month:

Cosmos
Alyssum
Calendula
Cornflower

Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia)

Rudbeckia are common perennial wildflowers native to North America. Rudbeckia—often called black-eyed Susans—are extremely hardy plants, which makes them a great option to plant in July. You’re also likely to find options in the plant center this month, waiting to be re-homed.

Black-eyed Susans are great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and will give you blooms all the way through October. Not only do these blooms provide pops of summery yellow and orange, but they’ll also blend beautifully with your fall mums and ornamental peppers.

The only thing you’ll have to worry about with these plants is their ability to spread over time and take over your garden. You will have to separate them every few years or so —similarly to irises, dahlias and daylilies — in order to keep them from choking out your other plants. Important to note: Rudbeckia is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Source: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/what-to-plant-in-july-36768117
Photo: pexels.com

Condo Fees and What They Cover

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 16:56:00 GMT

Condos are often attractive to buyers, not only because they can be in a more favourable price range than single family homes, they can provide easier access to amenities and a low-maintenance lifestyle.

However, these benefits don’t come without a cost. In addition to your mortgage, you’ll need to plan for the maintenance fees, also known as condo fees. This article will look at what condo fees are, when they can be reassessed, and what they mean for your mortgage, specifically related to an apartment-style condominium building.

What are condo fees?

To put it simply, condo fees are monthly contributions made by unit owners to a condo corporation (the organization that runs the condo building). This money is then pooled together and goes toward funding maintenance and general upkeep of the building. Every condo has a condo board, made up of people from the building, who manage the property on behalf of residents and owners. They’re responsible for making decisions in the best interest of all parties.

While every building is different, the most common costs included in the monthly fees are:

Utilities—A condo corporation may pay some or all of a building’s utilities. For example, it may pay for water and electricity, but not heat.
The reserve fund—A portion of condo fees will go toward maintaining the building’s reserve fund, which is essentially a sum of money set aside for unexpected repairs. For example, if the roof or boiler in a building needs to be replaced, the condo board can use some of this cash to pay for it. Before you buy into a building, knowing how much money is in its reserve fund can also help you understand the building’s financial health.
Common area maintenance—Condo fees can also go toward paying for garbage pick up, snow removal, and the upkeep of common spaces in the building or property including hallways, lobbies, elevators, and the grounds around the building or buildings.
Amenities—The more amenities your condo building has to offer, the higher your condo fees will usually end up being. Pools, reception services, saunas, shared rooftop patios, and parking all add to the cost of your condo fees, while admittedly offering a lot in return.

The size of the condo building can also be a factor in your overall condo fees. A building with 20 units will likely not have the same fees as a building with 200 units, as the required maintenance and utilities will be different.

Do townhomes have condo fees?

Not all townhomes have condo fees—owning a freehold townhome is the same as owning a freehold single family home. That being said, certain townhome communities will have condo fees as well which can cover gardening, fences, garbage pickup, shared amenities, and other general maintenance fees as laid out by the condo board. When looking at homes with your REALTOR®, they’ll tell you whether or not the townhome is a condominium or freehold.

When can your condo board reassess your fees?

When you’re looking at condos for sale, it’s definitely easy to gravitate towards ones with lower condo fees. However, lower fees could come with a catch. If the fees are too low, the condo corporation may not have enough cash flow to pay for larger repairs which, in turn, may lead to a special assessment. Your REALTOR® can help provide a more clear picture of the building’s history as they know the area well. They can also recommend properties with better track records to help make you feel more comfortable with your choice.

A special assessment is a payment unit owners must make to the condo corporation, on top of their regular monthly condo fees and mortgage payment. The terms around special assessments will vary based on provincial legislation, so it’s always important to understand what your board can and cannot do.

As an example, the Condo Authority of Ontario (CAO)—an organization that aims to improve condominium living by providing services and resources for condo owners, residents, and directors—indicates special assessments can occur for various reasons, but the most common include:

Unforeseen expenses—A major expense may arise unexpectedly, such as the roof needs to be replaced. The CAO says this might happen during a critical year for the reserve fund, which is when the condominium board has depleted its reserve fund to complete major projects. As a result, the remaining balance is too low to cover the unexpected expenses and the special assessment has to be paid.
Under-budgeting—A special assessment can also be paid if an expense or major repair ends up costing more than expected.
Losing a lawsuit—Finally, the CAO says unit owners must “bear any judgment against the condominium,” which means if the condominium can’t pay the judgment from the operating fund, the board must turn to a special assessment to cover the costs.

Do condo fees affect your mortgage?

When you’re looking for a condo, it’s always a good idea to double check your monthly spend—mortgage payment, property tax, insurance, utilities, and condo fees—and ensure you can afford everything before applying with your lender.

In short, Alex Obradovich, a REALTOR® and sales representative with Chestnut Park® Real Estate Limited Brokerage in Toronto, says condo fees can affect your mortgage.

“When applying for a mortgage or a pre-approval, the lender will most definitely account for condo fees when looking at how much debt they are willing to supply to a client,” he explained. “Condo fees are just one of many factors taken into consideration when determining the amount of debt a lender is willing to supply.”

Furthermore, when it comes to condo fees, Obradovich says they may also have an impact on an owner’s condo insurance.

“Not all condo fees are created equal. Each property may have different costs associated with it. Some condo fees may cover some sort of insurance and the type of home insurance policy you may want to secure may change,” he explained. “Conversely, the home insurance may or may not take into consideration what is provided by the condo or maintenance fees.”

If you’re unsure how to interpret what the condo fees represent, you can request for the condo board to share their status certificate with you. This report contains all the details about the current financial state of the condo maintenance corporation, as well as mention any details of the existing size of their reserve fund and if there are any ongoing lawsuits.

Regardless of whether you’re a first-time home buyer or not, it’s all about asking questions and keeping informed. Your REALTOR® can help navigate condo fees, status certificates, and every other aspect of your condo buying journey.

The information above is for informational purposes only and should not be used as investment or financial advice.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/condo-fees-and-what-they-cover/25935/1362
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