Monthly Archives December 2015

5 tips for eco-friendly renovations

December 21, 2015 | Comments Off

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 windows in winter. Energy efficient appliances, LED lighting and solar panels will also contribute savings, while protecting the environment. Implement water collection techniques to use rainwater for toilets and the garden. Include water efficient faucets and showerheads. Add high-flow taps that make baths and
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Canadian Home Prices Are Growing At One Of The Fastest Paces In The World

December 20, 2015 | Comments Off

The Canadian real estate market continues to boom, according to this Financial Post offering. With a year-over-year increase of 8.2%, Canada ranked 4th of the 23 countries studied in Scotiabank’s report Global Real Estate Trends, behind Ireland (13.3%), Sweden (10.5%) and Australia (8.3%). However, the report warns the trend could change if economic uncertainty and high unemployment counterbalance the attraction of low borrowing costs. To read more click here. The post Canadian Home Prices Are Growing At One Of The Fastest Paces In The World appeared first on Team Realty. Source: Blog
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Here’s What Pushes People to Buy Homes in 2015

December 19, 2015 | Comments Off

If you want to sell your property quickly, at near the asking price, it is important to know why people are buying. In this post, Realtor.com chief economist, Jonathan Smoke, suggests we pay attention to the five main triggers for home buyers: they have grown tired of their home and want a change, interest rates are exceptionally low, housing prices are favourable in many markets, they need or want more living space and they have the money to spend. To read more click here. The post Here’s What Pushes People to Buy Homes in 2015 appeared first on Team
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Unchecked Emotions Can Cause Costly Property Mistakes

December 18, 2015 | Comments Off

We are sometimes enthralled by the presentation of a property, but ignoring the things we cannot see or overlooking obvious problems and risks can lead to disastrous consequences. To the extent possible, put your emotions aside and make buying property a business decision based facts and data. Getting Too Attached To A Property Impulse decisions in real estate can cost major dollars and can have life altering effects. If you fall in love with a house, you may be tempted to waive conditions or pay more than planned in the rush to close the deal. The problem is,
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The Number of Real Estate Appraisers Is Falling. Here’s Why You Should Care

December 17, 2015 | Comments Off

According to this realtor.com post, the number of real estate appraisers is dropping to the point where parties on both sides of real estate transactions could suffer. Since most residential mortgages need an appraisal before a sale closes, a shortage of appraisers will affect buyers, who rely on accurate valuations to structure their offer, and sellers, who can lose a deal if appraisals come in low. The Appraisal Institute notes the number of appraisers has dropped 20% since 2007 and predicts a 3% annual decline for the next decade. Fewer appraisers means longer waits, which could delay a closing. That
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Boost Your Curb Appeal with 4 Doable DIY Projects

December 16, 2015 | Comments Off

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 have taken care of the property during your time as owner. Power washing the garage door, driveway and fences will add to that impression. If you are upgrading the paint, determine whether accent painting (shutters, columns, etc.) or a whole-house job is required. And,
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5 must-do’s for first-time home buyers

December 15, 2015 | Comments Off

This homeownership.ca article by real estate lawyer Mark Weisleder gives the essentials for the novice buyer. Start by calculating what you can afford (general rule is 30% of gross income). Then, figure out what is important to you and search for properties with those features. Ask the seller about flooding, leaks, mould, insurance claims and neighbourhood problems. Pay for a thorough home inspection by a qualified inspector and buy an after-sale warranty. To read more click here.
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5 Steps to a Safer Bathroom

December 14, 2015 | Comments Off

If you are planning to remodel your bathroom this Consumer Reports article give sound advice on how to do it with safety in mind. Install pressure-balancing and anti-scald valves to provide a steady flow of water that remains at a safe temperature. Add a sturdy, properly secured grab bar that will support 250 pounds. Since mold and mildew thrive in a moist environment, ensure your vent fan exhausts to the outside and run it after every shower to dehumidify the room. Remove any items (hamper, scale) that might cause a tripping hazard and ensure mats have non-skid backing.
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How to Reduce Your Energy Bill with No Cost or Sacrifice

December 13, 2015 | Comments Off

This excellent post from Adam Dachis on lifehacker.com tells how to lower your electricity bill easily, at no cost, by using your appliances more efficiently. For example, promoting optimal air flow will lower energy costs by reducing the demand on your cooling/heating system. Opening all vents in the house and replacing filters on a monthly basis will support ideal air flow, while standing or ceiling fans can be positioned to push hot air up and out (summer) or down to trap it in the room (winter). Dachis also provides useful tips for laundry machines (reduce heat whenever possible
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Inexpensive Ways to Make Your Home Green

December 12, 2015 | Comments Off

In this bhgrelife.com post, we learn just how easy it is to join the green movement and become an eco-warrior. For example, by improving the energy efficiency around home, you reduce consumption, conserving the planet’s resources and saving money at the same time. Installing a programmable thermostat lowers consumption and, surprisingly, a fully loaded dishwasher uses less energy than manual washing. Changing furnace filters and cleaning dryer lint traps regularly will improve operating efficiency and reduce consumption. Green landscaping ideas like composting, collecting and using rain water, pest control with natural products, using push mowers instead of gas
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LAUREE JOHNSON