July 2014 - Posts
Everyone has heard a construction horror story, either through a friend, family member, or on a home improvement program. Whether it's about contractor work not performed to code or to customer specifications, or about projects taking longer than expected, or a story about costs going way over budget, home renovations can be a stressful endeavor......
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A beautiful hotel can certainly make an impact, but ultimately it's the service that makes lasting impressions. Successful hotels earn repeat customers by providing top-notch service and making their guests feel special...
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The real estate market can be complicated for first-time home buyers and sellers. There is a lot of information to navigate and decisions to make. Test your knowledge below and learn the facts and fiction about home buying and selling.
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The biggest security risk on your property is a busy family schedule. Typically, multiple keys are made for each household as we come and go at all times of the day. This puts families at a higher risk for losing keys, forgetting to lock doors, and for making other simple security blunders.
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When homeowners envision the 'curb appeal' of their property, favourite features such as landscaping, windows and even decorative pieces come easily to mind – but what about the driveway? Is yours attractive, or is it an eyesore...
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As many homeowners can attest, summer is by far the best time to take on DIY projects around the home. From major renovations to minor repairs, getting to work just seems easier with a nice warm breeze. This renewed summer feeling also brings out the desire for homeowners to take inventory of their items, especially deciding what can stay and what must go. But before you scrap old items like rusted bikes or broken down wagons, consider an 'upcycle' project instead. Millions of Canadians are joining the upcycling trend by updating old outdoor items, and it can be easier than you think with the right tools...
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Moving to a different neighbourhood is an exciting adventure, but it's also a stressful time as we check off, one by one, all of the tasks necessary to turn a new house into a home. Be sure to add security measures to your list say advisers in this field....
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Did you know that it takes about 7,500 litres of water a day to support a standard North American lifestyle? This includes projects that are both mega (like running the power grid) and micro (like rinsing the conditioner out of your hair) – and it is double what folks elsewhere on the planet use. So how does one reduce an H2O habit? Consider some of these tips on how to conserve water...
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With thermostats turned down and windows pushed open, many Ontarians are not thinking about their natural gas bills in summer months. However, according to Enbridge Gas Distribution, next to home heating, the greatest source of natural gas costs comes from heating water and swimming pools.
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If you're getting ready to buy a new home this summer, energy efficiency is an important element to keep in mind. While it may not be as a glamorous as planning the new paint colour or décor, energy costs should be on the list of items you evaluate at any potential new property.
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The bathroom is one of the most highly trafficked and important rooms in the house. When it comes to installing a new bathroom it is important to establish a plan and a budget. This can be challenging as installing plumbing and drainage lines can be very time consuming and costly...
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Cleaning supplies are endless since we often use different products for different rooms. But why overspend when there is a single product that has been helping people clean for over 165 years? Baking soda is an inexpensive and gentle alternative to harsh chemicals because it's 100 per cent natural. For a top to bottom clean home on a budget, try some of these tricks...
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Frustrations can fly when eager homebuyers run into competition during the offer phase of the buying process. Competitive, or multiple offer situations, can take place in markets all across Ontario, so it's best to be prepared...
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