Monday 15 January 2018

These 4 Mistakes are Costing You Vital Storage Space

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At this time, just as a new year lies before us, organizing the house is a high priority for many people. You’re probably thinking about cleaning, clearing and decluttering. As you work, there’s a strong chance that you may be wishing that your home had more storage.  The good news is that you might have more storage space than you think.
Here are 4 common mistakes that could be preventing you from maximizing your home’s storage space.
storage space
Source: Country Living
  1. Empty Walls – Your walls are filled with potential storage space. It’s tucked in between the studs and under the stairs, just waiting to be used. Adding recessed built-ins is a fantastic way to increase the storage in homes of all sizes. You can add small closets, built-in drawers, and cubbies, or even create a small nook for reading or computer use. If you aren’t an experienced DIYer with some construction know-how, contact a contractor to learn more about your options.
storage space
Source: Structube
  1. Single Purpose Furniture –Whenever possible, make your furniture do double duty. When shopping for a new ottoman or bench, select a piece with either a hinged top or lift off the top. You can use it to store blankets, books, or even children’s toys. Your bed can provide extra storage, either in the form of a design that incorporates things like bookcase and cubbies or with the help of flat storage containers, specially designed to fit under the bed.
storage space
Source: HomesFeed
  1. Bare Door Backs – The backs of your interior doors, closet doors, and even cupboard doors are fantastic spots to store small things. Don’t leave them bare. Instead, make use of coated wire hanging systems for larger things like wrapping paper, umbrellas, and pantry items. Fabric shoe organizers are perfect for keeping toiletries in order behind bathroom doors or in a hall closet. Try placing hooks mounted with removable adhesive on the backs of cupboard doors. This is a great way to hang utensils, kitchen wrap, foil, tea towels, and even pot lids.

  1. Mistaking Hording for Curating –One of the biggest clutter-causing mistakes people make is confusing hording for curating. While both involve acquiring possessions for their aesthetics and enjoyment, curation is highly selective and prioritizes quality. Conversely, hording places the priority on quantity. Whether someone favors figurines, sports memorabilia, or even shoes, the best way to minimize excess is to add only high-quality pieces to your collection.

Friday 29 December 2017

5 ways to prevent break-ins during the holidays


Happy Holidays!
(NC) A season filled with travel both near and afar makes a prime time for home break-ins. To minimize your home's risk, follow these security tips.
1. Out of sight, out of mind. Wherever you choose to gather your gifts this holiday season, make sure that they are out of any sightlines to the street. Showcasing the goodies stocked under your tree will easily pique the interest of a potential thief.
2. Time your lights. If you're proudly displaying your outdoor lights all season, one sure-fire way to compromise your home security is to turn them off. Put your lights on a timer so they go on and off at the same time each day, giving the illusion you're at home.
3. Stop the presses. Nothing screams you're not home more than a bursting mailbox. Plan to suspend your mail service while away, or ask a trusted friend or neighbour to collect it while you're gone.
4. Take to technology. Invest in home security accessories such as a video doorbell or an outdoor light with a built-in security camera. These stealthy gadgets allow you to keep an eye on your home and will even send alerts to your phone when sensing motion or a ringing alarm, providing comfort and peace of mind.
5. Lock it down. Verify that all your home's doors and windows have functioning locks and latches and that they're in place prior to leaving. Faulty closures make home burglaries a breeze.
One final tip — make sure your home insurance is up-to-date before your holidays begin. Esurance allows you to revise your policy online, making insurance easy so you can get back to what matters most, spending time with family and friends.

10 easy tips for holiday safety

Happy Holidays
(NC) Don't let the hustle and bustle of the holidays lead to distraction and accidents. Whether you're hosting a holiday bake-off or an adults-only cocktail party, it's important to remember that safety comes first. To safeguard your home from potential fire hazards, follow these tips and protect your family and guests:
1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly to make sure they are working. Replace the battery as needed. If the alarms are more than 10 years old, replace them.
2. Have an exit plan in case of fire, and make sure you identify multiple exit points.
3. Check all of your lights before hanging them on the tree or around the house. Throw out any sets that have been damaged or frayed. When purchasing new lights, look for the certification mark so you know the product complies with applicable standards for safety and performance.
4. Use a timer for outdoor lights so they aren't left on overnight.
5. Don't overload power strips with too many appliances or lightstrings. Make sure they aren't covered by fabrics or rugs, and don't leave the wire exposed in areas where it can be damaged.
6. Blow out candles when you are done with them, especially when leaving the room or house. When lit, keep them out of reach of children and pets and never walk with them.
7. Be careful when cooking and don't leave the kitchen if you're using the stovetop. Never leave the house if the oven is on and keep countertop appliances unplugged when you are not using them.
8. Have your chimney swept if you have a wood-burning fireplace, and make sure to use the safety screen when there's a fire going.
9. Fresh is best if you purchase a tree or any green garland. Freshly cut trees are more resistant to ignition and smell wonderful, adding to the entertaining vibe.
10. Keep a fire extinguisher in the house. Hopefully, you won't need it, but it's best to be safe.
For complete peace of mind, consult your insurance provider to make sure you have the appropriate home coverage. Companies like Belairdirect can guide you to assess and understand your coverage needs. Find more information online at belairdirect.com.

How to get your home holiday-ready

Happy Holidays!
(NC) Prep your home for a flurry of activity with these simple steps.
1. Incorporate magical seasonal scents. Fill your space with holiday-scented aromas from candles, or simmer your own potpourri with ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon, pine or bitter orange.
2. Build a fire to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Keep fuzzy blankets and pillows on hand for both decoration and functionality and bring out a board game for a little entertainment. If you need extra warmth, cozy up in a Denver Hayes fleece robe from Mark's and make some hot chocolate.
3. Be the best host and stock up on supplies that guests will use if they stop by. Essentials include towels, sheets, pillows and shower supplies. Make sure you keep these items accessible close to where guests are staying.
4. Make a grand entrance. Welcome your guests at the door with a fresh wreath and add holiday touches such as an entrance table with lighted tinsel trees, candles and ornaments. These details make a great first impression.
5. Don't forget to make space in your home. Clear out your closet to make room for the influx of coats and winter boots and make space in your fridge and freezer for leftover food and beverages. Adding extra storage space will help keep you organized.

Thursday 21 December 2017

Radon is a threat all homeowners should know about

Radon is a threat all homeowners should know about
























While it may sound more like a villain from the Transformers movie, radon is a threat you won’t see on the big screen. Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas, produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks and water. It is present in all homes across Canada but at different concentrations.
Radioactive gas in a home can pose serious health risks if left untreated. However, the good news is radon testing is simple and accessible for all homeowners, and fixing the problem is generally inexpensive.
How do you make sure your clients are effectively testing for radon?
The most important thing is selecting the right type of test. Long-term testing, a test that occurs over a three-month period during the fall and winter months, is the most effective method, according to Health Canada because it provides a more representative annual average exposure.
Once the test is complete, the results are sent for analysis by certified radon professionals to determine radon levels (your clients can find all of this information in their test kit).
If the radon concentration exceeds 200 Bq/m3 (becquerels per cubic meter), a mitigation system should be implemented by a radon professional to reduce the radon levels in their home. Remind your clients to always get estimates, ask questions and check references before selecting a radon professional.
This year, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) along with boards and associations across the country will be undertaking radon testing in our own buildings. To see the results, make sure to visit the CREA Café next spring.
Radon tests are widely available across Canada. To find a retailer near you, visit TakeActionOnRadon.ca/test.
Looking for more information about Radon? I am here to help you. In the comment section, ask for a complimentary copy of  A Homeowner’s Guide to Radon 

How to peak appliances for your dream home?

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(NC) With so many options to consider, shopping for appliances can sometimes feel overwhelming. Function, size and design — it's about finding the right model for your lifestyle. Here are a few helpful insights from The Home Depot Canada to consider before making your next appliance purchase.

 Refrigerator 

 Function.
The sky's the limit when it comes to configuration — top-mount, bottom-mount and side-by-side are just the beginning. Review your daily needs and consider special features such as easy access doors, multi-tier freezer sections, icemakers, second refrigerator drawer options, convertible freezer sections, wine chillers and even smart home-connected capabilities.

Design.
Think outside traditional white or stainless-steel finishes. Instead, bring a contemporary feel to your kitchen with slate, glossy or matte black stainless or even a warm, gold-hued veneer.

Range

Configuration
 New designs have a host of convenient options available, like double ovens that cook at two different temperatures simultaneously and warming and baking drawers to help with multi-tasking and entertaining. If space is tight, also consider installing a separate cooktop for maximum flexibility in your kitchen.

Cooking requirements.
 If take-out is your regular go-to, a standard electric model will work for your needs. However, if you are an aspiring chef take it up a notch and consider going with either gas or induction, which both deliver intense heat for quick cooking and boiling. If you have small children, induction cooking is a safer alternative because the coils are underneath glass, protecting little hands.

Dishwasher

Capability.
Take the work out of washing dishes by opting for a dishwasher with multiple tiers and washer arms for full water coverage. To ensure your cycle doesn't stop until your dishes are clean, look for models with new sensor technology that monitor food debris in the water. Ensure the model you choose considers future changes to your family size so it grows with you, and look into getting a model with a third rack.

Efficiency.
Energy efficient options can provide long-term savings to your monthly bills. For example, two-drawer dishwashers operate like separate dishwashers in one unit, offering increased flexibility and efficiency. To save you time, look for bonus features like quiet operation or advanced cleaning functions.

Get older trees inspected before ice storms

Get older trees inspected before ice storms

Protect your dream home!
(NC) In many Canadian neighbourhoods, older trees add character and a sense of heritage to streets and homes. But during severe weather, these trees often show their age and can break or fall, causing damage to property and even injury to people. Don't wait until after a major ice storm hits to inspect your trees — use this guide to spot signs of trouble and protect your family and neighbours.
Inspect. Check your trees for dead branches, peeling bark, cracks in the trunk, fungus near the roots and cracked or raised soil. Take a step back to look at the tree as a whole to see if it's leaning; trees leaning towards the East are more likely to fall because most winds blow from the West.
Prune. Tackle damaged limbs and branches to help balance leaning trees and distribute their weight more evenly. Pruning also opens up tree canopies to let in more light and air for a healthier tree.
Brace. Add some support to weaker trees with cables or bracing rods on either side of the tree. Protect tender bark with padding before attaching the cables.
Prevent. Keep trees healthy and stop problems like damaged branches before they start with year-round gardening and maintenance. Use appropriate treatments for pests and fungus, and water, fertilize and mulch regularly. Don't be afraid to call in a professional arborist or landscaper for help and expertise.
Find more information from your insurance broker or online at avivacanada.com

Products to stretch your small space


08/12/2017

Products to stretch your small space

Music to my ears

Sonos_photo_Clare_Kumar
With the advent of music streaming services and the digitization of our own collections, the footprint devoted to creating spectacular sound has shrunk. There is no more need for expensive and inflexible wiring. Wireless speakers from Sonos come in a variety of sizes (match to the size of your space), and can be paired together for stereo sound. Best of all, they only need to be plugged in where you want them, and can be controlled from your computer or device. Never has it been so easy to have music flow through your entire space!

Freezer magic

FoodSaver_Freezer_1_crop_photo_Clare_Kumar
Appliances in small spaces often come in more diminutive sizes, putting pressure on how much food we can keep. Even if you live in a petite place, buying food at its freshest or when it’s on sale never loses its appeal. The FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer goes a long way to maximizing not only what you can store in your freezer because you’re not wasting any space on oxidizing air, but it also means your food will keep fresher up to five times as long. The clear bags not only let you see everything easily (critical for any effectively organized space), they are sturdy enough to transfer from freezer to hot water without compromising. Space savings, money savings and efficiency make for a win-win-win solution!


Storage space super tools

Foyer_Closet_Neatfreak_223_photo_Dann_Tardif
To get the most out of every closet and cupboard in your place, you’ll want to think first about which items belong in each space. Ideally this will be based on proximity to use, but if space is really tight, then grouping like shapes can also be helpful. Tools such as the Harmony Twill line of organizers from Neatfreak make it easy to divide your closets to organize what you need to store. Work from the bottom up and install shelving on the floor for footwear or paperwork. Hang a lower closet bar to double short hanging space. Add hanging sweater or shoe organizers to hold clothing and accessories or even office supplies. Neatclips provide versatility on to hook on boots, belts, purses and more. Use bins and drawers on the top shelf to keep things tidy and manageable, and from falling on your head!


Kitchen space savers

Joseph_Joseph_photo_Clare_Kumar_IMG_2459
Condo kitchens seem to be getting smaller and smaller. If you enjoy eating and entertaining at home, you’ll want to look to Joseph Joseph who cater to small, design savvy kitchens. You’ll find everything from the smallest can opener, to simplified scissors, to a twist whisk and graters which store flat. As well, new in their Intelligent Waste line is the Stack system which allows you to build the garbage, recycling and compost centre you need stacked in the open, or tucked into a cupboard.

Multifunction furniture

Ikea_Hemnes_CK_111_photo_Dann_Tardif
Look for smartly designed furniture to meet more of your functional needs. Examples include ottomans that serve as seating and storage and coffee tables that lift up to serve as dining tables. If you’re trying to combine an office and guest bedroom, consider the Hemnes bed from Ikea. It appears to be a simple day bed, yet offers built-in deep draw
Photo: Dann Taers (a great place to store the bedding), and surprisingly can expand its full width to become a king size bed! This allows you to preserve some floor space in the office yet turn it into an ultra-comfortable sleeping space when guests arrive.rdif

Saturday 18 November 2017

Is it time for a new furnace?

Is it time for a new furnace?

www.realtorpankajpatel.com
(NC) Sooner or later, every furnace dies. Ideally, you don't want to wait for the unfixable breakdown to happen in the dead of winter before shopping for a replacement. Begin your research before you've got an emergency and you'll have time to choose a furnace and service company wisely. Here are some factors to consider.
Age. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it's unwise to trust it for more than a few years longer; repair costs are also more expensive for older models. If your 10-year-old furnace needs repairs that cost half of the installed price of a new furnace, then a replacement can make more sense. But if your 20-year-old furnace needs work, then even a small repair bill can mean it's time to replace the old clunker.
Heat exchanger. This is the heart of the furnace and it's impractical to repair it. Furnace replacement is often the only option if the heat exchanger is at the end of its useful life.
Efficiency. A new high-efficiency furnace can more than pay for itself over time. Moving from a furnace with an overall efficiency of 75 percent to a new furnace that delivers 95 percent efficiency saves you more than $20 per month for every $100 a month you spend on fuel.
Fuel type. If you've got natural gas available where you live but your furnace uses something else, then consider this when you switch to a new furnace. Natural gas is currently much less expensive than any other home heating fuel, and this is unlikely to change in the future.
Renovation plans. If you're thinking of finishing your basement in the near future, this is another good reason to consider replacing an older furnace. It's a lot easier to get the old furnace out and a new one in before your basement is finished, with less risk to newly finished floors and walls. New furnaces can also be substantially smaller than old ones. Finishing your basement after furnace replacement lets you make full use of any extra space freed up.
Make sure that the heating contractor you hire is properly licensed and provides a complete written contract for the work to be done. The Canadian Home Builder's Association offers free, unbiased information on how to hire a contractor the smart and safe way. Find more information at www.getitinwriting.ca.

Friday 3 November 2017

Safe at Home with Smoke Alarms

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Smoke alarms are an important defense against injury or death in house fires. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association show that nearly two-thirds of home fire fatalities occur in homes with non-working or missing smoke detectors. Most building codes now require smoke detectors in all residential structures, which has resulted in a steep drop in fire- and smoke-related deaths. Homeowners should check with their local public safety office or fire department for specific information on these requirements.
  • As in real estate, location is key! Smoke alarms should be in installed every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the home.
  • Alarms should be placed high on a wall or on the ceiling. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement. High, peaked ceilings have dead air space at the top; in these instances smoke alarms should be placed no closer than 3 feet from the highest point.
  • For areas close to the kitchen, use a detector with a “hush button” that can be used to silence nuisance alarms triggered by cooking smoke or steam. Alternatively, consider installing a photoelectric alarm near the kitchen, which will not be triggered by cooking. No matter which type is used, never remove the unit’s battery to stop or prevent nuisance alarms.
  • There are two primary types of smoke alarm technology: ionization and photoelectric. According to the National Fire Protection Association, ionization alarms are more responsive to flames, while photoelectric alarms are more sensitive to smoldering fires. For the most comprehensive protection, both types or a combination unit should be installed.
  • Test each alarm monthly. It’s helpful to put a reminder in the calendar to do this on the first or last day of the month, for example. The units have a test button that will sound the alarm for a moment or two when pressed. Any alarm that fails to sound should have the battery replaced. If the test button fails with a new battery, replace the entire detector immediately. Monthly testing is also an ideal time to dust off the unit so that it continues to work properly.
  • Replace the batteries at least once a year. A common rule of thumb is to do this when changing to or from Daylight Saving Time in fall or spring. Remember, a non-working alarm is no better than no alarm at all. Some alarms now come with 10-year lithium batteries that eliminate the need for new batteries, but the unit itself must be replaced after its stated lifespan.
  • If the alarms are hard-wired to the home’s electrical system, make sure they are interconnected for maximum effectiveness – meaning that if one alarm is triggered, all of the others will sound as well. Any hard-wired alarms, interconnected or not, should be installed by a licensed electrician for safety and proper operation.
  • The newest type of interconnected alarms are wireless. This technology allows detectors to communicate with one another and, like their hard-wired cousins, will sound all of the units at the same time even if just one is triggered initially.
  • Tags: AlarmsFireHome TipsSafetySmokeSmoke Alarms

Sunday 1 October 2017

Buyer’s Guide: Freestanding Bathtubs

eieihome

Buyer’s Guide: Freestanding Bathtubs


The latest wave of freestanding tubs is making a splash in the world of bathroom design. They are attention-commanding statement pieces, beloved both for their aesthetics and for the deep soak they can provide.
Whether intended for a bathroom makeover or new build, a freestanding tub can instantly provide the luxurious spa feeling that many homeowners covet. Available in an extensive variety of styles and materials, they work beautifully with most design styles, from farmhouse to contemporary and beyond.
When shopping around for the ideal tub to be featured in your new bathroom, there are several factors that you should consider. Since freestanding tubs play much more of a starring role than the integrated variety, you will find that the emphasis on looks will be a much bigger part of your overall consideration.

Tub Size

Freestanding bathtubs are available in a variety of different lengths and widths. Most suppliers offer tubs starting at 45 inches long, all the way up to 75 inches and beyond. Typical tub widths start at 25 inches and extend to 45 inches wide and sometimes even wider.
Another factor to keep in mind when searching for your new freestanding tub is who will be using it. If you happen to be a petite person, and only plan to use the tub solo, then you can safely get away with something more compact. However, a tall person, or a family with more than one kid at a time enjoying the tub, will want to shop for something roomier.
Freestanding tubs look best when surrounded by a generous amount of negative space. This means that you may want to consider a model that doesn’t completely dominate the allotted space.

Tub Features

While the primary feature of any bathtub is that it allows you to enjoy a good soak, there are several more options to consider. The technology available in freestanding tubs has advanced greatly. This makes is possible for you to enjoy the beauty and style of a freestanding tub, along with additional features that are more often found in an integrated tub.
Available features may include things like air bath technology, whirlpool jets, and a heated surface.

Tub Design

Freestanding tubs are available in several different designs and styles. Whether your bathroom is rustic or high-end, you can find a tub that complements your décor. Here are some of the styles you can find on the market:
Clawfoot – The classic, freestanding-style tub. As the name suggests, clawfoot tubs are lifted off of the ground by four typically ornately, designed feet.
Pedestal –This style of tub is elevated by a pedestal base.
Slipper Tubs – Slipper tubs are higher on one end than on the other. This shape makes it more comfortable for leisurely soaking.
Double Slipper Tubs – These tubs are high on both ends, allowing for a comfortable couple’s soak.
Ofuro Tubs – These are deep, Japanese soaking tubs that allow users to soak up to the neck in steaming water.

Material

Tub construction is another area that you’ll need to consider when shopping for a new, freestanding tub. The factors that go into making this choice are cost, durability and looks. For the most part, any style of tub can be found in most of the following materials. However, as in the case of Ofuro tubs, options may be limited.
Enameled Tubs – Enameled tubs are constructed of steel with a porcelain overlay. Pros of this option are that they are easy to clean, durable, and offer a vintage look. On the Cons side, they tend to be very heavy and can chip under impact.
Acrylic –This option wraps formed sheets of acrylic around air or fiberglass, to create a tub that is lightweight and low-maintenance. This versatile material and construction allows tubs to be crafted in a number of different colours and shapes.
Wood –Most bathtubs found in North America are not made of wood. However, Japanese soaking tubs are often constructed from Hinoki wood or Port Orford Cedar. These woods are used for their antiseptic properties.
Cast Iron –If you’re looking for a tub that will last for generations, cast iron is the choice for you. These tubs are made from molten iron that has been coated with enamel. It’s chip-resistant, scratch-resistant, dent-resistant, and extremely heavy. In fact, installing a cast iron tub often requires extra floor reinforcement. Not surprisingly, it’s among the most expensive tub materials on the market.
Stone –Marble, travertine, and granite tubs are a luxurious splurge. This style of tub definitely commands attention … and demands a healthy budget.
Solid Surface –This option provides the look of stone, but at a lower cost and at a lighter weight.
With such a wide variety of tub styles, materials and sizes, it’s easy to see that there are options available to suit almost any budget and style. The perfect freestanding tub is out there and waiting to play a starring role in your bathroom renovation.
Ready to get started on a renovation? Search our listings of qualified, local home renovators and home improvement professionals. You can also browse our extensive library of bathroom renovation articles for more buying guides, information, and advice on home improvement topics.

Thursday 21 September 2017

How To Prepare Your Community For The Next Hurricane With Evercondo

How To Prepare Your Community For The Next Hurricane With Evercondo

In the wake of disasters such as Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, we are reminded of the vast importance of communication and keeping communities informed and connected. When these types of events occur, there is often panic and chaos. Communities are faced with many questions about how to prepare in advance, where to find updated news, and what to do after the storm has passed. Platforms such as Evercondo are essential for staying organized and having necessary information available in one convenient location.

Before a Storm

Before a natural disaster strikes, Condo Associations and HOAs should reach out to members and let them know how they can prepare and what safety precautions to take. They can also share what the Association is doing to keep property and members safe. Instead of relying on members to get information from a variety of outlets, Evercondo can be used to send announcements via email, SMS, voice, or push notifications. Members receive important messages straight from the Association and know exactly what applies to them and what they should be doing.

After a Storm

Once the storm has passed, Evercondo can be a valuable tool in managing cleanup, ensuring that members are accounted for, and quickly accessing necessary documents whether for insurance claims or to partner with service providers. By maintaining updated contact information for all residents, Associations know who is living the community, where they live, and how to get in touch with them.
It is also a wonderful platform that makes it easier for residents to submit requests for repairs or alert the Association about potential problems. All service requests are tracked to ensure that they are not overlooked. On the flip side, the Association can notify members regarding any damage or outages and update them on progress as these problems are corrected. All messages are neatly organized in one location so board members and property managers are all on the same page and know what is happening.
By keeping communities connected, Associations can also notify residents about ways that they can help the community or others in need. There are frequently fundraisers and donation drives that take place after natural disasters or other major events. One way that members can always help – and how Evercondo has been supporting those in need – is by donating to the Red Cross. Monetary donations of any size are appreciated and go toward fulfilling the needs of those affected by disasters such as Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
If your community is looking for an easy, convenient way to stay in touch with members, organize Association files and events, and make communication more efficient and effective, find out how Evercondo can help.
Evercondo is the leading web and mobile platform that facilitates quick and useful communication between community managers, HOA board, and residents. Contact us for a demonstration or sign up for a free trial to see how we can keep your communities happy today!

5 most desirable areas to buy a home within a one-hour drive of Toronto

 Affordable homes can be found in Mississauga, Halton Hills, Pickering, Milton, and Aurora, all near Toronto. These cities offer amenities a...