Most of us have little or no experience with re-roofing, so this post by home reno expert Bob Vila is a valuable guide to the questions a homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer. First, ask for an estimate that is comprehensive enough (permits, inspections, materials, labour, contingency) to establish a firm budget. Discuss […]
5 Questions to Ask Before Replacing Your Roof Read More »
This detailed Home Inspection Network post provides useful data to anyone who is considering a home renovation. Author Bev Siciliano begins by explaining what many do not realize – we might not fully recoup our investment when the home is sold. For that reason alone, home renovations should be analyzed individually to ensure we get
Reno Investments Providing the Highest Returns Read More »
This article from Bob Vila gives eight handy tips to consider when using your basement for storage. The suggestions include taking advantage of vertical space by building up and not out, using open shelves for frequently-used items and built-in cabinets to conceal toys or cleaning supplies, storing off-season gear in sealed bins to protect
The Do’s and Dont’s of Basement Storage Read More »
If you are renovating, you should consider the green strategies suggested in this realestate.com post by Danielle King. For example, add insulation to the roof and external walls and you could save 25% on energy costs. Replace inefficient windows or add window film since up to 40% of your heating can be lost through
5 tips for eco-friendly renovations Read More »
Most sellers realize that preparing the interior of their homes for viewing is essential. In this article, Bob Villa explains it is just as important to stage the exterior of your house as it is to prepare the inside rooms when you are selling. For example, a clean, well-maintained yard will signal that you
Boost Your Curb Appeal with 4 Doable DIY Projects Read More »
In this article for Freshhome magazine, Shelly Little explains how Millennials, the generation born between 1980 and the early 2000’s, are redefining home design. According to her research, Millennials value money and success, individuality and urbanized environments. And, they want this outlook reflected in their homes. They want small designs that are unique and
Why Millennials Are Moving Home Design Trends Read More »
Virtually all homeowners will find something of use in this detailed and practical fact sheet from Central Mortgage and Housing Corp (CMHC). If you’re planning a basement renovation, it’s a must read, filled with time, energy and money saving tips, features and advice on how to green any project, from extensive, expensive renos to slower,
Green Renovations — Basements Read More »
If you want to convert your home’s look from average to exceptional, this Realtor.com post by Jamie Weibe tells you how. Remove mismatched decor items, store toys/magazines and organize your things to fix a cluttered appearance. Clean and re-grout tile to make it look new. Use traditional, neutral tones to freshen paint in areas
6 Sneaky Ways to Make Your Home Look Expensive Read More »
As people age, reduced mobility, impaired balance, failing vision and muscle weakness make them more susceptible to injuries in their home, and bathrooms are no exception. This Consumer Reports article tells how the latest design trends are helping owners upgrade their bathrooms with changes that enhance safety while retaining their beauty and avoiding an
Create a beautiful bathroom for the ages Read More »
Because the cost of electricity is expected to rise as a result of the federal Liberals’ green energy policies, prudent investors should pay attention to the energy consumption of their rental properties. This Canadian Real Estate Magazine post advises landlords to find ways to become more energy efficient such as installing programmable thermostats and
Higher electricity costs: how to circumvent them Read More »