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Dir:  North on #10, east 1 1/4 miles at #25, on north side.

Dir: 7 miles south on Dunrea Rd (across from tower near Wawanesa) to Noble Lake development

Dir: #10 to Onanole. West on Hwy#354 for 8 miles. Sign at Property.

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Dir: 3 miles east of Brandon on Trans Canada Highway, house on north side of the road.

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Dir:  5 miles north of Wawanesa on Hwy 340, east 1 mile then north to property or 12 miles south of Shilo on #340 then 1 mile east. Turn north to for sale sign.

Dir:#10 to Mountain Rd (Hwy #357).  East to Otter Lake Rd. North to Lakeview Rd.  Sign on lot.

Dir:  East on Hwy #1.  Sandyoaks campground, property on south side of highway.

Dir: South on #10 Hwy, 10 min drive from Zellers.  East side of the road.

Dir: #45 to Sandy Lake. Travel West from the Main Pier to Harrison Bay. Sign on lot.

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Dir: #262 to Svenson Rd. North to Barclay. East to Grey Owl Drive, then North. Sign on lot.

Dir:  262 north, past the Minnedosa Beach & Campgrounds.  Turn right (east) on Bethany Road.  Then 1st left (1 mile).  Follow to Town of Bethany.  Take 1st right into town.  This house is just south of the church.

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It can take years to accumulate a home full of treasured belongings but only a matter of days to pack it all into boxes for a move. Packing up and moving require organization and planning. In fact, it can be the greatest test for a procrastinator – what seems like few belongings can take far longer and use more boxes than expected. The following tips can help keep your breakables intact, your pets safe, and make the whole process as efficient as possible.

Most people have at least a month’s notice before a move. During that time, there are a number of preparations that will make the move easier including the following:

• If you have a pet and plan to take a flight to your new home, be sure to contact the airline early for information about vaccination requirements, tranquilizers and acceptable cages. Airlines have strict rules regarding pets and it is essential to be prepared in order to avoid delays.
• Reserve a rental truck or make arrangements with a professional moving company. Remember to check out the company with the Better Business Bureau and get all quotes in writing.
• Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to ensure your belongings are covered during the move.
• If applicable, make travel arrangements with airlines, bus companies or car rental agencies.
• Have a yard sale or give unneeded items to charity. Some charities will pick-up bagged or boxed items and may issue a donation receipt for tax purposes.
• Ask your doctor and dentist for records, x-rays and prescription histories. Also be sure to get your prescriptions refilled before moving day.
• Make a list of the companies that send you mail on a regular basis and provide them with a change of address. Arrange with the post office to have mail forwarded to your new address.
• Take inventory of your belongings before they’re packed in the event you need to file an insurance claim later. Take pictures or videotape your belongings. Record the serial numbers of electronics and cameras.
• Cut back on grocery shopping and start using up food items you already have so there will be less to pack.
• Notify your cable, telephone, power and water companies of your move. They can arrange to have your final bill prorated to the end of the month in order to close or transfer your account.
• Update the address on your magazine subscriptions with your new address.
• Start collecting boxes from grocery stores early – at the end of the month stores are usually flooded with requests for boxes.
• If you are moving into an apartment building, be sure to reserve the elevator a few weeks in advance. The building manager will arrange a time with you when one elevator will be locked off for your use.
• And the number one rule is…start packing early! Assign one room or corner of a room as the spot to pile boxes. Pack one or two boxes a day and pile them in the designated spot to avoid clutter and simplify moving day.

Packing Made Simple

• It seems that no matter how hard we may try to pack them neatly, clothes always come out of boxes wrinkled. This can be a liberating phenomenon for most of us! If however, you strive for wrinkle-free clothing, try layering several items then gently roll up the pile. Rolling the clothes means there are fewer straight edges and wrinkles.
• The best way to move computers, televisions, DVD players and other electronics is in the original boxes and packing material. The foam and plastic that came in the boxes are specifically shaped to protect items from impact.
• When possible, pack heavy items in smaller boxes for easier carrying.
• Use colour-coded labels to denote the contents e.g. red labels for kitchen items, blue for bathroom supplies etc. Use a permanent marker to write the contents of the box on the label.
• Have the following items on hand: a roll of packing tape, a pair of scissors, and a permanent marker for every person participating in the move. Also have more boxes than you anticipate needing in a variety of sizes.
• Carry all valuables with you.
• Instead of newspaper, use clothing, towels or bedding to wrap up breakables. This way you won’t waste energy and money transporting newspaper.
• Use strong boxes such as those from the liquor store to pack dishes and pans.
• Empty drawers in dressers and tape the drawers closed.
• Professional moving companies can usually supply wide plastic wrap for couches and chairs prior to the move. Another alternative is to use old sheets taped in place.
• Label boxes as fragile on all sides of the box and indicate which side is up.

Moving Day

Hopefully, if all has gone according to plan, you’ve completed and checked off all the items from the previous list. Theoretically, moving day should not be a packing day but it’s a good idea to have an extra box handy along with tape and scissors. The following are a few other important tips:

• If you are using professional movers, be there to watch the loading and unloading. If anything does get dropped or knocked you will know which items to inspect.
• Examine furniture and loose items carefully before paying for the move.
• Return keys to the landlord or arrange to provide the keys to the new owner.
• Find out what type of payment is acceptable to the movers i.e. cash, credit or cheques.
• Bottles of juice and water along with packaged snack foods can keep energy levels high.
• If you plan to drive a rented moving truck, keep these tips in mind: a truck requires more time to stop than a car so never tailgate and start braking early. If you need to back into a driveway have someone direct you from behind the truck. Know the height of the truck before hitting the road – it can be hard to estimate the height when approaching an overpass at 80 km an hour.

A well-organized and planned move can greatly reduce the stress involved in packing up and transporting a lifetime of belongings. A successful move can also be a wonderful way to start life in your new home.

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Dir:  North on #10 to Erickson. West into town. Building across from Co-op Gasbar.

Dir:  North on #10 past Onanole to Ash Street. Right onto Poplar Ave. Sign on lot.

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Dir:  #45 to Sandy Lake. Follow the signs to the Golf Course and travel past until Serenuk Drive. Sign on Lot.

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Dir:  65th Street E.  Go South past Hargraves, take bend in road now goes East 5 miles, property on South side of road.

Dir/GPS:  Hwy #45 to Sandy Lake. Lake Street is West of the Main Beach and Pier. Sign on lot

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Dir/GPS:  Travel to Ditch Lake Rd from #10. East to Rd 107, then North to 107.5. East to Sunset Drive. Last lot on the 2nd row. Sign on lot.

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Dir/GPS:  North on #10 to Ditch Lake Road. East to 107, North to 107.5 and East to Sunset Drive. Sign on lot.

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Dir/GPS:  North on #10. East on Ditch lake Rd. North on 107, East on 107.5 to Sunset Drive. Sign on lot.

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Deciding what price tag to put on your home is never easy. Price is often the determining factor for potential buyers. Location, layout and amenities are important but in the end most of us have to look at the bottom line. Many sellers like to think they can start with the price they originally paid, add a healthy mark-up and wait for the offers to roll in. A lot of those sellers will have to adjust their price once their home is on the market.

Try to put aside your subjectivity

The cherished memories you may hold of your home are basically unimportant to buyers. Usually they’re more interested in creating their own memories. An unsentimental look at the market value of your home can save time and disappointment.

The amount you actually spent for home upgrades is worth mentioning in the listing information, but their reflection in the selling price can be somewhat distorted. The new carpet, paint, or deck you added may increase the value (and shorten the time your home is for sale) but don’t expect to be reimbursed dollar for dollar for those renovations. As design trends change you may also find that certain renovations are either more or less desirable. (Do you remember shag?)

Arrange a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

It is standard practice for a seller to ask real estate agents to visit and evaluate their home. Ask for a comparative market analysis showing the selling prices of similar homes in the neighbourhood, those currently on the market and those that didn’t sell. A CMA presented by an experienced agent can provide a realistic price estimate of your home. Remember however that CMAs are not set in stone. Some agents under-value your home in hopes of creating demand. Others will flatter you with over-inflated estimates in order to get your listing but later suggest a price reduction. You may want to get a number of CMAs and augment it with your own investigative work.

Conduct your own market research

When homes in your area have open houses take a look. Use this opportunity to compare your home to “the competition” in terms of price, location, square footage, and amenities. Once you look at several listings you should be able to make an educated guess as to the market value of different aspects of your home. If you are months away from actually listing your home, visiting open houses may also help you discover which renovations could be profitable and appeal to today’s consumers.

Calculate the price per square foot

There are many factors to take into consideration when determining market value. Price per square foot is a good starting point. You can get a fair idea of the average price per square foot of homes in your neighbourhood by reviewing properties sold or for sale recently. Remember that there is more than one way to count square footage so it’s a good idea to ask your agent what method is commonly used.

Consider market conditions

Real estate is one of the most secure investments you can make but prices can rise and fall independent of the quality of the individual properties. If you attempt to sell your home when the market dips you’ll find you may have to lower the price below your expectations. Interest rates, the state of the economy and the local job market should be considered before you put your home on the market. The time between price peaks varies due to local and national market influences. These characteristics will assist you in determining if there is any market timing opportunities.

Finally, consider your own needs when setting your price. Are you in a hurry to sell? If so you may want to knock one or two percent off the market value. Is there a minimum amount you can afford to accept? If you have the luxury of time you have more leverage. Keep in mind however, that a house that is on the market too long or has a large price reduction at some point, may be viewed as “damaged” or “stale goods.”

Your best strategy may be to establish a fair asking price from the start. Most buyers will make an offer lower than the listed price in a bid to see how low you’ll go. However, those who have researched the market will be willing to meet you near your terms.

Location is paramount on the other hand when assessing where the highest rate of appreciation might be expected over a period of time. Locations that are superior for neighbourhood, proximity to schools and shopping, receive a steady demand on the part of buyers and usually produce a higher increase in value and of course a quicker sale when that time comes.

When buying, there is a trade-off for location. A home for sale on a main street for example will usually have more features for the price, than the same home on the nearby crescent. So a main street may be just what a consumer prefers knowing that they are getting more of the features they want for their money. On the other hand, a buyer may prefer to take the “crescent” home with less features for the money preferring the added safety that accrues to that location, where small children may be a concern.

It is by and large a matter of choice and most folks whether buying or selling want to come away from the process feeling they were well informed and pay or receive a fair price.

Even though your taste may be impeccable, a home can be too full of ‘stuff’, even too well decorated. It is difficult for people to mentally imagine placing their own furniture into a home when it is cluttered, or filled with lots of fine collectibles.

So what can you do as a seller? Remove things. Pack some things up and put them in the attic, basement or into storage – make the house look more spacious. Every area in your home will look better half-full – even your closets. Take out half the clothes in your closet and remove half the small appliances littering your kitchen counters, you’ll be surprised how much better your house will look. Even a fridge full of magnets can be distracting. Granted many people can see beyond your treasures, but some can not. Another good reason to ‘de-clutter’ is for the REALTORS®. Real estate agents really enjoy ‘showing’ homes that are bright and spacious – the more showings you have, the more likely you’ll sell your home. Remember, what you want to show is your home, not your family’s treasures!

Create Space
Prospective buyers are usually looking to upgrade. They have outgrown their home. Perhaps they need more bedrooms for their growing family or just find their current living space too cramped. As the seller of a home you need to show them what they want space. In order to showcase the space you have to offer, consider removing unnecessary furniture and cleaning out your closets, storage rooms or your garage. Also, keep curtains and blinds open to create an open, airy look.

Create a blank canvas
Once you have cleared up the clutter in your house, it is time to paint. Often, a new coat of paint goes a long way when you are showing your home. Choose a nice neutral colour such as an off white. Not only does it cover over old marks but it also freshens the place up. As well, it is often easier for prospective buyers to visualize their own decorating preferences when they have a “blank canvas” to look at. They are more likely to purchase a place that they truly view as theirs rather than somebody else’s.

Fix it Up
Prospective buyers want to move into a house where all mechanical systems are fully functional. In order to ensure everything is working properly, you should have your mechanical systems inspected by licensed contractors. If there are minor repairs to be made they should be done at this time. You should have your furnace and air conditioner cleaned, fix any plumbing leaks and make sure all electrical outlets are in working order. Fixing minor repairs will show the buyer that the home is well maintained. Covering up minor problems warns potential buyers that you could be also hiding something a lot more serious.

First Impressions
Last, the first glance prospective buyers will have of your house is from the outside. So once you’re done inside, move outside and ensure that your home looks appealing from the street. Make sure the lawn is always cut, garden edges are trimmed and shrubs and trees are cut back. As well, replace broken or rusting gutters. Flowers go a long way in improving the overall look of your house. If the season is right, consider planting some pots or hanging baskets. Also, ensure that children’s toys aren’t strewn all over the lawn.

Most sellers know that a tidy home can help their home sell faster but ‘clean’ is a relative term. What one person finds acceptable could send another running for the door. Real estate agents and brokers have seen it all: ring around the bathtub, clothes on the floor, pantyhose hanging off the shower curtain, sinks full of dirty dishes, living rooms littered with toys, dust bunnies behind the sofa the size of prairie tumbleweeds…

There are three main incentives to keeping your house in perfect showing condition: your home may sell faster, you may get more money for it and by removing the clutter you will allow people to focus on any improvements you’ve made to your home. (It’s hard to see the new tile floor in the bathroom when it’s covered in wet towels!)

Long before the first open house, take stock of your home. Do you have piles of magazines you’ve never finished beside your couch? Are your closets and drawers overflowing with clothes you’re hoping will come back in style? Do you trip over a pile of shoes when you walk in the door? Be brave and pack up anything you don’t use on a regular basis and give away whatever you haven’t used or worn in the last five years-bell-bottoms couldn’t possibly make another comeback! A good guideline to aim for is the uncluttered, unobtrusive look of a hotel room.

While you may feel that achieving such a high level of cleanliness is seemingly impossible for amateurs your efforts will pay off! Begin by washing the walls, windows and doors and shampooing carpets. If you have hardwood you may want to get them professionally cleaned and varnished. Put a drop of oil in squeaky joints. Polish brass hinges and doorknobs.

Pets should be kept outdoors or in cages during showings for everyone’s safety. If you have a cat, ensure that the litter is changed or cleaned daily. Cat odour can be a great hindrance to the sale of your home since people may worry that the odour will be permanent. Open windows shortly before a showing if possible.

For the exterior of your home, a fresh paint job can do wonders. If painting your entire home is prohibitively expensive consider making small updates such as painting the window frames in a contrasting colour (ex. white against a deep blue) or just touching up rough spots. The garden is another outdoor area many homeowners overlook despite the fact that it is the first thing prospective buyers will see. Keep the lawn and bushes trimmed. If you were never much of a gardener you can still have fresh flowers by cheating a bit-make a quick trip to the garden store. Most small annual flowers are available for less then $2 per plant. Choose flowers in only two or three colours to create a sense of uniformity in your garden. Attractive flowerpots on the window ledge can be a nice touch depending on your style of house.

Don’t be surprised if people also want to see the garage. Some buyers feel the garage reflects the general maintenance of the entire property. Unfortunately, if you are like most people you enter your garage half expecting to be attacked by your belongings. If you have no where else to store the items you don’t want to give away, at least try to put them in boxes piled neatly along one wall. Designate one area for bikes and other sporting equipment.

Once you’ve completed these tasks, it’s important to maintain the neatness of your home (inside and out) on a daily basis while you have it up for sale. Open houses often take place on short notice. If you start with a clean house, it’s easy to wipe off a counter or run the vacuum over the carpet to get it into good condition and ultimately complete the sale.

Painting is an inexpensive update which can make a dramatic impact on your home. Colour and light are usually the first things people become aware of upon entering a room. Painting with light tones can make a room seem larger and brighter. Select colours on the wall can highlight those in the furniture, rugs or accessories. Usually this is done with complimentary colours (yellow-purple, blue-orange, and red-green) used sparingly or in light tones. Pale yellow walls, for example may highlight royal purple cushions on a sofa.

Flowers are another easy way to make a room seem more appealing. A thirty-dollar investment in a few bouquets can make your home seem cheery and well attended to in the eyes of prospective buyers. If you run out of vases you can always try the rustic look: a clean mason jar (labels removed) with a large bow around the top or pop cans inside a deep basket then covered with florist’s moss. Try a large bouquet in the living room or dining room and delicate arrangements of a few flowers in each other room.

Take an objective look at your furniture and decide if you have too much clutter. Why pay to move items you may not even like? More importantly why keep that questionable furniture in your home during an open house? If you have a ratty chair that needs to be reupholstered or items which clash with the majority of your furniture it may be time to take action.

Consider renting artwork. If you have a large blank wall, a captivating painting can imbue the entire room with new energy. Galleries typically rent artwork for 4% or the retail value per month with a minimum two-month rental. You’ll find artwork ranges from $400 to $4000 so take a close look at the number of zeros on the price tag!

A few small changes may not transform your home into something you’d find on the celebrity pages but they can make a dramatic impact on buyers.

1. Think of your home as a commodity. Remember, it is not going to be your home anymore and should be marketed as a product. When looking at your home, you should decide on a general theme that emphasis the best features of your home and portrays an overall mood.
2. You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Clean up and revamp your front entrance way. It is the first place a buyer will see. Polish doorknobs, replace burnt out bulbs, and repaint the door if it is stained or scratched.
3. Do a thorough cleaning before putting your house on the market. Spotless walls, windows, carpets, flooring, and appliances make a lasting first impression. Key areas are the kitchen, bathroom and front entry. If your carpets or vinyl floors are stained, especially in high traffic areas, you should consider replacing them.
4. Consider the outside of your house. Does your siding need washing, your gutters cleaning out, or your hedge need trimming? A tidy outside raises less concern about maintenance issues.
5. Remove any clutter. Small appliances on countertops, knick-knacks, jam-packed bookshelves can be packed away in preparation of moving. Family photos should also be packed away so that the potential buyer can more easily visualize their own possessions in your home. This also includes removing any excess furniture so your home has a spacious airy feeling. You may want to rent a temporary storage unit for furniture and other boxes that take up room in your closets or storage spaces.
6. Arrange the furniture in your home to showcase its best features. Put a few pieces on angles to create cozy corners, and a less boxy look.
7. Remove any area rugs that are covering attractive flooring and a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a dingy room. Try using currently fashionable colors to update your home’s décor. Cream or neutral colors warm up a room making it feel giving a homey impression.
8. Vacant homes should have the heat or air conditioning on for showing purposes. It reduces the stale odors that accumulate inside of a vacant house and gives a more inviting impression to potential homebuyers.
9. The mood you create in your home is also dependent on odors. If you home has an unpleasant or mildew smell you will want to remove the source of the odor. Open up the windows to let fresh air inside your home before you show it. If you are going to use a scented candle or incense, try and use mild varieties as strong smells can irritate sensitive noses.
10. Baking bread, playing soft music, and adding additional plants to your home, are all psychological cues that make a potential home buyer feel like your home is a nice place to live in and they will spend more time previewing your house. Outdoor planters and indoor floral arrangements are visually pleasing.
11. Consider your lighting. Natural light makes a home feel more welcoming, open and appealing. Drapes and blinds should be opened and mood lighting left on in darker rooms.
12. Take a look at your possessions. Stained or tattered items should be removed from view. Fresh towels, made beds, and clean throw rugs are a must.
13. Fix any small repairs, including leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and loose door handles. They may seem insignificant but minor repairs add up in the mind of a potential buyer.
14. If you have pets, ensure that their dishes, sleeping areas, and litter boxes are clean. Any noticeable pet hair should be vacuumed, and dog droppings removed from the yard.
15. If you know the mood you want to create but do not have the furnishings, consider renting them. Large pictures, designer coffee tables, and accessories that enhance your homes overall look may increase the appeal of your home without seriously denting your pocket book.

Defining your expectations and establishing the “Rules of Engagement” before you begin negotiations will enhance your selling experience.

• Articulate Your Needs – work with your Sutton REALTOR® to define your preferred conditions, desired closing dates and minimum offer price before negotiations begin. Understanding the difference between your needs and wishes will facilitate successful negotiations later.
• The Right Price – when you hit the market with the ‘right’ asking price (and a home in good showing condition), you will probably improve your bargaining power by attracting multiple offers. With a range of potential purchasers to consider, you may drive up the purchase price, facilitate the process with a pre-qualified buyer, or negotiate more attractive terms.
• Anticipate Negotiations – negotiating an offer is a fine balance of give-and-take. Give your Sutton REALTOR® some latitude by establishing the parameters of negotiation upfront. What conditions are you willing to compromise? How might you enhance your offering for potential purchasers? What are your critical priorities?
• Understand the Offer – accepting the Contract of Purchase and Sale is a legally binding agreement. Before you accept / reject / counter-offer, make sure you understand all the legal implications and financial obligations implied in the terms and conditions of the offer (including chattels, inspections, closing dates and financing). When considering the price, remember the factors in closing fees and associated costs to complete transaction. If you have questions or concerns, ask before you sign!
• Leverage Expertise – to ensure all agreements are in your best interest – personally, legally and financially – work closely with all your real estate service partners throughout the selling process. Sutton Associates offer expert real estate counsel and a trusted real estate brand. You will also want to carefully select a lawyer and financing specialist to guide you through the closing process.

Sometimes it’s difficult for homeowners to be objective on important matters of showing form and function. Your Sutton Associate can offer you personal and professional advice on what you really need to do – and what you could do better – to improve your home’s selling prospects.

Outside Matters – get off to a good start by welcoming buyers with a tidy and inviting exterior.

• Yard – mow the lawn, trim hedges, rake leaves and offer a touch of flower power
• Driveway – keep the garage door closed and clear any tools, toys, oil leaks and snow
• Exterior – wash the windows, clean / repair any obvious damage to the roof, gutters and siding
• Entrance – a tidy walkway and freshly painted door open a world of possibilities

Clean Bill of Health – a clean home creates a wealth of selling health.

• Rooms – do a thorough top-to-bottom cleaning of every room including walls, counter surfaces, fixtures and windows
• Flooring – remove carpet stains and floor markings
• Storage – attics, basements and closets are important selling features that need to be ‘presentable’
• Odors – every buyer is looking for a ‘sense of fresh’; eliminate any offensive food, pet, smoke or mildew odors; shampoo carpets, empty garbage frequently, bathe pets and open windows for fresh air; introduce pleasing scents – subtly – with potpourri, air fresheners, candles or baking

Gut the Clutter – space always sells, over-excessive decoration often doesn’t. Clearing space and removing unnecessary clutter makes your home seem bigger and brighter.

• Furniture – consider storing furniture you don’t use or need to create more ‘space’
• Knick-knacks – too many ornaments and personal mementos can impose a sense of style and burden otherwise pleasing features
• Counters – unnecessary appliances and gadgets should be stored away

‘Care’ Repairs – ensuring your home is in complete working order assures buyers they are making a sound investment in a home that has been well cared for – a home that won’t bring unwanted surprises down the road.

• Leaky faucets, burned-out light bulbs, noisy furnaces and air conditioners, sticky doors, broken windows and dysfunctional appliances should be dealt with before they break the deal

New is Nice – buyers are looking for a new home, so give them a taste of what’s to come…

• A fresh coat of paint, a new area rug, crisp linen or dry clean the drapes are relatively small investments that can make a splash with buyers. Remember: neutral colours are always best and subtle styles have wider appeal.

Area ______________________________________________________________
Street Address ______________________________________________________
REALTOR® or Sales Person _______________________________________________
Phone ____________________________

COSTS

Asking Price $ _____________
Likely Price $ _____________
Property Taxes $ _____________
Utility / Garbage or Other Municipal Levies $ _____________
GST Applicable $ _____________
Property Transfer Tax $ _____________
Other Costs $ _____________
Down Payment $ _____________
Mortgage Terms $ _____________
Monthly Payments $ _____________
Principal & Interest $ _____________
Taxes $ _____________
Life Insurance on Mortgage $ ____________
Household Insurance $ _____________
Total $ _____________

SQUARE FOOTAGES

Home Type___________________
Age ______________
Total Square Feet _____________
Kitchen _____________________
Dining Room _________________
Living Room _________________
Family Room ________________
Great Room _________________
Den _______________________
Master Bedroom _____________
2nd Bedroom _______________
3rd Bedroom _______________
Other Room ________________
Number of Bathrooms ________
Master Ensuite _____________
Storage Space _____________
Fireplace: [ ] gas   [ ] wood burning
Garage: [ ] attached   [ ] detached
Carport __________________
Font Yard ________________
Back Yard _______________
Fence ___________________
Patio ___________________
Driveway ________________
Special Features _____________________________________________________

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

Distances to:
Work __________
Schools ____________
Shopping ____________
Highway Access ____________
Public Transit ____________
Doctors/Dentists ___________
Hospital ____________
Church ______________
Community Centre ____________________
Parks/recreation/jogging trails/bike paths etc.______________
Train Tracks _____________
Airport ______________
Neighbours’ property maintenance standards _____________
Garbage collection services ________________
Street Lights ______________
General maintenance of streets & alleys ________________
Area Zoning _____________
Neighbourhood or Municipality covenants or restrictions on property use ________________________________
Proximity to industrial or manufacturing areas __________________
Flood or earthquake potential ____________________
Traffic Volumes _________________________

GENERAL CONDITION

Roof ___________________________
Furnace Pipes _____________________
Gas / Electrical Capacity ______________
Electrical Outlets location ______________
Cable ___________________
Telephone ________________
Flooring __________________
Appliances List & Conditions
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Landscaping _____________________

CONTACTS

REALTOR® _________________
Phone __________________

Mortgage __________________
Phone ____________________

Lawyer/Notary ______________
Phone _____________________

Home Inspector______________
Phone _____________________

ADDITIONAL NOTES OR COMMENTS ON THIS HOME
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

We suggest you make several copies of this list and complete one for each home you visit. When you make an offer to purchase be sure you include a “subject to satisfactory home inspection”.

No one likes to think they will get old but we all seem to. Equally, no one likes to think that they will be living in their parents’ basement until they’re thirty-something! While saving for a mortgage may be the last thing on young minds preoccupied with sports, dating, or academics, it’s never too early to plan for the future. A few small steps can become giant leaps towards financial security!

Every dollar counts!

If there are two key words every young adult and teenager should know they are “compound interest”. A simple mathematical calculation demonstrates how savings can build. If the initial investment is $100 at a conservative interest rate of 5% per year, by the end of that year the investment will be $105. If the money remains invested through the next year, the investment will grow to $110.25 ($105 x 5% = $110.25). The following year it would be $110.25 x 5% = $115.76. So it is easy to see how quickly an investment can grow. It’s a great habit to get into setting aside a certain amount from every paycheck. Regular “payments” to your investment not only result in greater savings, they can help even out the ups and downs of the marketplace. There is nothing worse than investing one large sum of money and immediately afterwards seeing the stock market or interest rates plummet. Also try to think of invested money as being out of reach and avoid dipping into those savings.

Elephants aren’t the only ones with good memories…

A credit history can go as far back as the first loan (even those co-signed by a parent) or the first credit card. A bad credit rating can make it hard to lease a car, get a mortgage, or any type of loan. Always pay at least your minimum monthly credit card payment and pay it on time. Of course, the best plan is to never carry a balance. The lure of credit, however, can be too hard for anyone to resist especially for a young adult on a limited budget. If you can establish good habits early, think of how much you will save by avoiding years of paying 18-20% credit card interest. (That’s compound interest too, by the way.)

A poor credit rating can haunt you for years but a good rating can help you get a loan or mortgage in the future. Most lenders need to see that a borrower is financially responsible. Credit cards can be a great beginning. Most credit card companies will give accounts to students in their last year of university or most applicants over the age of 21.

Research the area where you would like to live.

No one can predict where the future will take him or her. Society is more mobile than ever. Educational pursuits or new jobs often force people to leave their hometowns and relocate in other cities or provinces. Wherever a person decides to put down roots, it’s important to research the market. Talk to local real estate agents. Most will be happy to share their knowledge and experience. Some important questions to ask include How much will I expect to spend in order to purchase a house with a certain number of bedrooms or a certain square footage? What sort of features should I look for in a home? Is there a strong resale market in this area? Also check out the local real estate companies on the Internet to get an idea of local home prices and sizes.

Mortgage Calculators

The best place to start is a mortgage calculator on the Internet. You can simply type in “mortgage calculator” and several options come up. (Ensure that you are using a Canadian mortgage calculator since rules differ between countries. A good calculator can be found at (www.canadamortgage.com.) A mortgage calculator is a quick, easy way to see what you can afford. If you enter an approximate home value and current interest rates, the calculator will show the required monthly payments and the value of the mortgage. By changing the amount of your down payment or the length of the mortgage payment period (amortization period) you can see how monthly payments change. Remember that this calculator only provides general information. When an individual applies for a mortgage the lender will take numerous factors into account including income, length of employment, and of course that omnipresent credit rating!

The tortoise and the hare…

Even if buying a home is years away it’s a good idea to start planning today! The slow steady building of your investments pays off richly in the end. Save a specific percentage of your income on a regular basis starting from your very first part-time job. Also try to make payments to your credit card on time and don’t carry a balance. Eventually we all get to the finish line but it’s nice to get there in style!

Questions to Ask

1. How long has the inspector been in business AS A HOME INSPECTION firm?
2. Is the inspector specifically experienced in RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION?
3. What does the inspection include? Inspections should include visual inspections covering exterior, structure, garage, plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, interior, insulation and ventilation. Extras include radon testing, a pest infestation survey or inspection of septic systems or wells. Be sure the inspector will provide a written report.
4. How much will it cost? Determine fees up front. Inspections cost from as little as $200 to as much as $1,000 depending on the size of the home and which inspection services are requested.
5. How long will the inspection take? The time depends on the size and age of the home, the average is 2 to 3 hours. Anything less isn’t enough time to do a thorough inspection but many inspectors take a full day to thoroughly inspect your prospective purchase.
6. Does the inspector encourage the client to attend the inspection? This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector’s refusal means you should look for a better qualified inspector.
7. Bluntly ask what educational and/or training facility the inspector attended. Does the inspector participate in continuing education programs to keep his/her expertise up to date? Ask to see the inspector’s papers. When hiring a company, make certain that your home will be inspected by a registered professional.
8. Does the company offer to do any repairs or improvements based on its inspection? This might cause a conflict of interest. We do not recommend that you deal with these firms.
9. Do they belong to an association that will investigate a consumer complaint?
10. Do they carry errors and omission insurance?

First things first. Let there be light, but where is the fuse box? Does it use fuses or just switches? (Hint: Label each switch with white tape and black letters so you can see them easier in the dark.) It’s a good idea to turn the switches off and on a few times so you’re used to how stiff they can be.

Water, water everywhere. Find the turn-off valve inside the house so minor floods don’t become major. Make sure you know where the toilet turn-off valve is. Can you turn off the outside faucets in the winter? (Hint: you may have to leave one outside faucet dripping during the cold months so you don’t burst the pipes during freezes.) Find the water meter and make sure it is functioning. If your garbage disposal stops working, find the red reset button on the unit under the sink. Before you turn it back on, check with your fingers to see if anything is blocking the blades, and then press the reset button. (Hint: Remove your fingers and the offending objects from the blades before turning the disposal on again…duh.)

Keeping warm and toasty. It’s important to find the furnace. What kind of fuel does it use? If you have an oil furnace, ask how often you need to refill it and who refills it. Do you have a maintenance contract for repairs? If not, can you get one? If you’re going to have to replace or clean the filters, where do you get them? (Hint: buy a couple of them, you never seem to need to replace them when the store is open.) Find the reset button and label it. Does the furnace have a fan for cooling the house in the summer? Where are the thermostats for controlling the temperature? No matter what the source of energy for your heating, find the main shut off valve.

Curl up by the fire. But make sure the fireplace flue is cleaned every one to three years, depending on how much you use it. Otherwise, the chimney may not draw well and “smoke gets in your eyes”, which is not as romantic as the song. A clogged chimney can cause a fire, which is not cool.

Nothing like a long hot bath. Check the water heater to see if it has a pilot light. If it goes out, how do you re-light it? Find out how to set the temperature and decide what temperature you should set it to.

Your very own washer and dryer. Clean the lint tray on the dryer every load or two, or it will build up and slow down the drying process. Also, too much dry lint can cause a fire. If your washer drains directly into a utility sink, place a filter on the end of the hose to keep from clogging your sink.

How about a tall cold one? At least twice a year, clean the water tray under your frostless refrigerator, and vacuum the coils at the back now and then to keep it cooling effectively. (Hint: Check the seals around the doors of your refrigerator to make sure no cool air is escaping. If there is moisture on the rubber seal, you’ve got a faulty seal.) Now pop open the cold one and toast your new home.

Do Your Research

Know what you want, what’s available and how the buying process works before you start thinking seriously about signing a contract. Browse through newspapers and magazines. Consult with family, friends and co-workers. Attend a seminar for first-time home buyers. Check the Internet. Visit model homes and talk with builders and their sales agents.

Pre-arrange your mortgage

If you are like most of us, you will borrow funds to finance your home purchase. Talk to your lender about mortgages early in the process. Knowing in advance how much you can spend comfortably and getting pre-approval for a mortgage means you can proceed from “just looking” to a signed contract with confidence.

Check the builder’s qualifications

There are many reputable builders who provide exceptional service and build great homes – both lowrise and highrise. As you talk with builders or their salespeople, ask questions: How long has the company been in business? Is it a member of the local home builders association? Will the builder give you references of previous new home projects? What after-sales service is offered? Does the builder offer an independent third-party warranty and, if so, what does it cover? “Personal fit” is also important: Does the builder or salesperson listen to you, understand your needs, and offer useful advice?

Check the home carefully

Whether a builder has a model home, a sales office or sells directly from plans, you’ll have an opportunity to look closely at the quality of the home and what’s included. The builder’s specifications list will detail the construction materials and finishing products. Ask to see a description and samples of the standard features included in the base price of the house, along with the description and cost of options the builder offers. When viewing a model home, don’t hesitate to try out windows, open drawers, look into every nook and cranny, and inspect the home’s mechanical system.

Understand the total cost of buying

Get detailed prices and estimates on everything involved in buying a home. Your builder and lender can advise you on the costs of securing a mortgage, taxes and so on. Ask your lawyer to give you a detailed breakdown of closing costs. Call movers for estimates. Determine if you need to buy new appliance, window coverings or furnishings.

Consult with a lawyer

Before you hire a lawyer, it’s a good idea to ask for a detailed estimate of fees for service.

Be realistic

Quality, solidity, good products, service – these are the things that add up to real value for the long term. Your objective is to find the home that provides the best overall value within your budget. A professional builder will work with you to find the right balance of features that will work well for you.

For more information on new homes or renovations visit the Canadian Home Builders Association website at http://chba.ca/

Consumers need to know that under the closest scrutiny one could argue that there is something “wrong” with every home. The real question here is:- does the price reflect what is being offered. In this case what is “wrong” with a home may be exactly what makes it right for some one who appreciates the opportunity and the reflected price.

Regarding the thought of overpricing, it must be considered that where a home is extremely unique, a long marketing time may be necessary in order to obtain market value while pursuing a buyer with the same unique interest. On the contrary, with atypical homes, a long period of time on the market may point toward inferior marketing but mostly toward an overpriced listing for that market regardless of what is “right or wrong” with the home. However, sometimes when homes are reduced and buyers ask “how long has it been listed” the proper response is “at that price only…weeks”. By illustration and a bit of exaggeration to make the point, suppose a home is on the market for 2 years at $300,000 and the seller reduces it to $250,000. Then, while the buyer is asking “how long has it been listed”, there are 5 offers being presented, followed by the hollow apology “Sorry it’s sold”.

It is obvious then that both notions for time on the market may be incorrect. While you can always make an offer, it’s always best to ask yourself “does the price reflect what is being offered” to avoid disappointment.

In the excitement of beginning a search for a home, many people jump right in without considering all of the elements that make a home truly right for them. It is a complicated and personal process. An unsuitable choice can be costly in many ways – you could lose money, waste time and effort relocating, or even put your family’s health in danger. The following are some things to consider when identifying your ideal home and planning a successful purchase.

Choosing a Neighbourhood

Remember that you can renovate a house but neighbourhoods take years to change and there’s no guarantee they’ll change for the better! On the other hand, if you really love a certain part of town but it’s out of your price range you may want to consider buying a less-than-perfect home then doing renovations. They can be quite expensive so try to make improvements that will be reflected in the value when you sell. These renovations have been found to have the greatest payback: kitchen 70%, bathroom 68%, interior painting 65%, exterior painting 62%.

Tips on choosing a suitable neighbourhood:

• When you find a locale you like, walk around it. See what it’s like from street level.
• Are the people friendly?
• Are there stores and recreation facilities nearby?
• Contact the local school board if you have children. Do local schools provide good education opportunities? If applicable are there private/religious schools?

Figure out what you can afford:

Consider how much you currently need to live on and how much you actually have leftover every month. People have a tendency to create budgets that look nothing like reality – when we should have $400 left over, for some reason we only have half that.

Consider these basic costs of buying a new home:

• Most homes require a down payment of several thousand dollars.
• Monthly mortgage payments can be 1/3 of the average person’s annual net income.
• You may want to pay for a home inspection. Consider more than just the structure. Ask the inspector to check for asbestos, radon, animal infestation and lead.
• Moving costs can be from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the distance of your move and the quantity of belongings.

Financing

The sort of home you can afford depends on several things:

• How much you have saved
• How much you earn
• Past earnings
• Your credit rating

The past has a way of haunting new homebuyers. If you are concerned about your credit rating you can usually get a free copy of your rating report from your local credit bureau. Normally all that’s required is a couple pieces of photo identification. Remember, a few late payments or disputed bills can besmirch your record. Try to pay everything on time and don’t have more than two credit cards. A bad rating can spell trouble getting a mortgage or you end up paying more for your mortgage as a form of insurance to the lender.

Pre-Qualification

This refers to documents from a bank or other lender indicating that you have the financing to back up your offer on a house. Pre-qualification is free and most lenders are happy to sit down with prospective buyers and figure how much they can afford. Having an accurate idea of price range will save time in the bidding process. If there are several people making offers on your dream home, being pre-qualified can make your offer more attractive since financing is not in question. It is important to note, however, that lending institutions will base their final decision about a mortgage on ability of the buyer to service the debt as well as the property. Most lenders state that the two components go hand in hand – the buyer with the ability to repay a mortgage and the property as security in the event of default on payment.

By taking all these points into consideration, you can worry less about the process of buying and get busy finding your ideal home!

Scenario one – you’ve just bought a new home, the old owners are moving out before the closing date, and you want to start moving in early – proceed with caution! Scenario two, you’ve just sold your home, but can not move out until after the closing date, so you’re going to rent it back from the new owners – be equally as cautious!

A purchase contract usually dictates that ‘occupancy’ (the day the old owners must be out, and the new owners may move in) is to be given at the time of settlement, on the day when the money and the house-keys change hands. While it may sometimes be necessary for you to move in early or stay on longer, most real estate agents, and lawyers alike, would strongly advise against doing so!

Too many things can go wrong. When moving in early, buyers have plenty of time to discover every little problem that may be wrong with the property. Or maybe they don’t ever obtain their financing. What then? Costly legal bills, that’s what. And who will pay for the window that breaks in the meantime? Whose insurance covers the house and their belongings? And a rare case, but a possible one – what if they never do close on the house and then take their time moving out? Would normal eviction regulations apply?

Now let’s look at the other side too. There are on occasion times when the seller may need to close, but can not immediately move out. Often in these situations a clause would need to be added to the sales contract, and the seller would rent back the property from the new owner. Again, many of the same issues, as noted above, would apply.

Keeping all these potentially disastrous situations in mind, when planning to move in ahead of time, or stay on when you no longer own the house, your best bet would be to get a good attorney and a good contract. And read the ‘fine print’, BEFORE you sign it!

Moving your houseplants can be hazardous to their health – even fatal!

If you’ve got houseplants and are planning to move homes, you’ve got only 3 options. You can give them away – be generous, throw them out – somewhat cruel, or take them with you – now that’s daring!

If you happen to be one of us that can’t bear the thought of abandoning your precious plants, you’re in luck. The National Gardening Association has some great advice:

Going airborne? If your belongings will be shipped by plane, your first step should be to contact the airline. Most airlines have strict regulations when it comes to transporting plant life. They will tell you what you can and can’t take, and how they should be packaged. Another worthwhile phone call would be to the Department of Agriculture, in the area that you are moving to. Some provinces and states forbid the importation of plants, to prevent the spread of pests (harmful insects) and agricultural diseases.

Hitting the highway? If your belongings will be shipped by car (truck), you should check the containers in which you are planning to transport them in. Terra cotta pots for example are very fragile and may break. It would be wiser to transplant them into plastic pots. But be careful when transplanting. Make sure you do not cut or tear the roots, and always sterilize the pots before replanting. Some pots, especially used ones, may still have bugs or bacteria in them, thriving on old soil.

Regardless of your mode of transportation however, the most important thing to do is keep your plants moist throughout their journey. Aside from giving them a good watering, you can try wrapping the soil tops with sphagnum moss soaked overnight. Also, wrap your pots in newspaper and then burlap. Leaves and stems can also be wrapped (loosely) in burlap, to avoid breakage.

An alternative to transporting the entire plant, would be to take only ‘cuttings’ of your favorites. Cuttings (small clippings of your plants) can be wrapped in wet moss and again in newspaper. Then place the wrapped cuttings in unsealed ziploc bags and put them into cardboard boxes ready for transportation.

With a little special attention, your plants will soon continue to grow and flourish in their new home – assuming they’ve survived the journey!

Making your ‘old friend’ comfortable in your new home. You may not know this, but dogs and cats can encounter many of the same problems people have, in moving into a new home.

They must become used to a new house, neighborhood, unfamiliar sounds, strange postal carriers and other service people. They may need to get used to different water, that does not agree with them, and even colder or warmer climates. But with a little help from a friend, your pet will soon settle down and enjoy their new surroundings!

Although it may seem wrong, or even cruel, it is advisable to keep your pets confined for a few days – even a few weeks, until they realize that this is their new home, and that the family is going to stay. Otherwise your pet may wander off and try to return to their old home. This is especially true of cats – they should be confined for several weeks.

To speed up that “at home” feeling, use familiar food and water dishes, your pet’s bed, blanket and toys etc. Also, try to put things in the same sort of location, as they were in your old house – like putting their water dish in the kitchen, or at the back door. As for birds, keep them in a quiet room, where they will be undisturbed until they become used to their new surroundings.

Other small pets, like gerbils and rabbits, usually have few or no adjustment problems other than becoming used to a change in their water supply. This is also true of tropical fish. To avoid harming them, test the water for similarity to that of the water in your old home, and adjust it to the particular requirements of your fish.

With a little bit of care, and some ‘TLC’, your pets will soon enjoy their new home as much as you!

There is something spiritually uplifting about moving: a new home is a new beginning and packing becomes a purifying ritual, a time to decide what you will take and what you will leave. Packing for a move is the packrat’s only true redemption. When else are they likely to discard, recycle or donate the mountains of clothes, unread magazines, and knickknacks? Packrat or not it can seem like a daunting task. Take a deep breath and mediate on this phrase: packing can be pleasant. All you need to know are a few tricks from the masters.

Whether you are moving across town or across the country, it’s a good idea to pack a box of basic necessities and if possible transport the box with you to your new home rather than putting it in the moving truck. In case of any unforeseen delays in the arrival of your belongings, you won’t be completely inconvenienced. Keeping the box with you also means you won’t have to dig through stacks of boxes when you get to your new house. Some ‘must-haves’ are shampoo, soap, coffee mugs, tea or instant coffee, pens, paper, a small box of laundry detergent, scissors, a few washcloths and towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, plastic utensils and paper plates. (If you have not mastered the Zen of unpacking you may also want to add aspirin to your box of essentials!)

Packing breakables can be the most time consuming part of preparing for your move. Each glass, cup, plate, and bowl must be wrapped. Most of us use old newspaper but the ink can become messy. Try wrapping your plates in tablecloths, dishtowels, clothes or bath towels. Using fabric items as the actual wrapping material saves space and weight-you would have had to pack them up regardless but this way you do not transport unneeded newspaper which will just end up in a crumpled pile in your new kitchen.

You may be surprised at how expensive boxes can be if you decide to buy them from your movers or other packing suppliers. Veteran movers are in the know on the best places to find free, sturdy boxes: grocery, furniture, and liquor stores receive most of their inventory in boxes which must be disposed of. These merchants are usually happy to give these away but try to ask for boxes in the first two weeks of any month; lots of other people have the same idea and there may be none left if you wait until the end of the month. If you work in a large office which frequently updates its computer equipment, ask for these particularly strong boxes in anticipation of your move. If you have storage space and plan to move again within a few years, hold onto the coveted computer boxes.

A great way to save time is to use a system of coloured labels. Even if you don’t consider yourself ultra-organised, it’s a simple time-saver. Buy large office labels in four or five colours and use different colours to denote different parts of the house (ex. yellow for the kitchen, blue for the bathroom etc.) Colour coding can be a quick visual reference.

No self-respecting mover would ever admit to it but sometimes boxes get left in the rain just a little too long. The result is wet belongings and occasionally clothes get ruined when colours bleed from dark to light fabrics. It’s a good idea to place any moisture-sensitive items in clean plastic bags before packing in boxes.

A few reminders:

• Always pack the heaviest objects on the bottom and work up to those which are light and breakable.
• Chemical cleaners should never share a box with food even those items which are canned or unopened.
• Criss-cross tape across the bottom of boxes then up the sides to prevent boxes from breaking open.

Hopefully, by keeping these tips in mind, you will manage to avoid any moving mishaps and make the first days in your new home as special as they should be.

Just as you take your car for a regular tune-up to ensure it continues to run smoothly, your home also needs some special attention. There is a lot more to keeping up a house than cutting the grass and clearing snow from the driveway.

Ensuring your home “looks” good and is in proper working order not only makes it more attractive and comfortable, but it can also increase the market value of the property.

Homeowners who plan to move within a few years are often reluctant to invest time and money on improvement projects that may not pay them back. But unless these improvements are very specialized, any project you choose -from fixing leaky faucets to installing new energy efficient windows -will start to pay you back in energy savings and comfort long before you sell. The wisest improvements you can make to any home are those that keep it running smoothly and bring it up to the standards of other homes in the immediate area. And these needn’t break your budget.

Easy maintenance, repairs

Start with simple repairs that don’t cost a lot and you can do yourself: securing loose tiles, adjusting a door, installing a lock, repairing a leaky faucet or pipes, and so on.

If the decor in your home is bothering you, don’t decide right away to rip everything out. Changing styles in decor and every-day wear and tear can make any home look worn and tired. But all it may take to make your home look more attractive and in better repair are small improvements such as refacing cabinets and counter tops, changing the colour scheme, repainting, paneling, hanging new wall coverings or installing new lighting.

It is a good idea to locate and read your gas, electricity and water meters on a weekly or monthly basis. This will help you gain an understanding of seasonal increases and decreases in consumption and enable you to take measures to become more energy and water efficient. The savings could be substantial.

You should have your furnace inspected and serviced annually to ensure there are no problems. Unless you know a lot about furnaces, this is something you should not do yourself. You can and should, however, change or clean the furnace filter regularly. You should also inspect the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home; you want to be certain these work in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Bigger upgrades

While replacing leaky faucets can drastically improve a bathroom’s appearance and cut down on water usage, sometimes it takes a lot more than that to bring an old bathroom to an acceptable standard.

A bathroom tune up can pay big dividends. The first items to replace should be the fixtures -the sink, faucets, vanity, bathtub, shower and toilet. This is where you will add value and save money by opting for a water-efficient toilet, water-conserving showerhead and faucets, efficient fans and other energy-saving devices.

The floors, walls, and accessories are not an essential part of a bathroom tune-up but you can save time and money if you do your overhaul all at once rather than one piece at a time.

Other good major home improvements include replacing old carpets and flooring with new, more durable products; adding a garage or carport if your home does not have one; installing central air conditioning; repairing or adding a fireplace; upgrading your basement space; replacing old windows with new energy-efficient ones; adding terraces, wooden decks and fences that add privacy; and investing in landscaping that adds value and is easy to keep up.

Modern windows not only beautify the appearance of a home, they bring sunlight in during winter, while preventing the warmth created from escaping outdoors. Windows also insulate a home from heat during the summer and keep cooled air from escaping.

When deciding whether to repair or replace your existing windows, begin by considering their age and condition. Poorly designed, constructed and placed windows can cost money through heat loss.

Increasing efficiency

If your home is more than 30 years old and still has the original windows, chances are that your windows are not keeping you as warm or as cool as well-placed and installed newer models. But there are measures you can take to increase their efficiency:

• tighten the seal around the windows with weatherstripping. There are many different types of weather-stripping available for use on wood, metal, aluminum and vinyl. One of the easiest to apply is caulking cord which comes in a roll. All you do is press the cord into place to make a tight seal.
• every window not made of insulated glass should have a storm window. If your home has storm windows, ensure they are in good condition and install them properly before the cold season begins. When those icy winter winds start blowing, both you and your pocketbook will notice.
• if your home doesn’t have storm windows, or they are in poor condition, you can get as good or better protection using heavy-gauge clear plastic sheeting. Seal it tightly over your existing windows and you have an inexpensive and effective alternative.

Replacing windows

Replacing existing windows with more energy efficient models doesn’t have to be done all at once. Begin by replacing the ones causing the most heat loss, such as the large picture windows in your living and dining rooms. Replacing windows in stages over a period of years costs less up front and still increases energy efficiency.

With the variety of windows on the market today, however, it pays to shop around. Before making a decision, consider the principle types of windows available.

The common window types are double-hung, casement, stationary, awning and horizontal sliding. They may be made of wood, aluminum or vinyl or a combination of these materials. Almost all feature insulated glass and easy-to-clean designs that provide tight seals and eliminate draftiness.

Whether you plan to install the new windows yourself or have them installed professionally, be sure to visit a number of suppliers and study the various products and options on the market. You want to select windows that augment the appearance of your home, increase energy efficiency and give you the most value for your money.

One of the easiest, most cost-efficient ways of enhancing your home is with paint. With the advances made in paint over the past decade, there’s not much you can’t do with it indoors and outdoors.

Gone are the days of the all-purpose can of paint. Today there are paints available for specific materials and surfaces. Whether your floor is wood or concrete, there is a paint designed for use on it. There are even paints for metals, such as the smoke pipe of a stove, that heat up to extremely high temperatures.

Some paints are made for specific uses on appliances, cabinets, tile walls and floors, bathtubs and sinks. You can even produce a terrazzo look on floors or a textured effect on walls with the right kind of paint.

Before you begin any project, visit a paint dealer and discuss the kind of material you plan to paint, its condition and the result you want to see. There are so many paints on the market, you want to make sure you get just the right one. A paint that’s good for interior woodwork, for instance, is not necessarily good for wood floors or outside wood trim. A paint intended for concrete walls won’t necessarily hold up on a concrete floor. So be specific.

To apply any paint all you need to do is follow the instructions on the paint can. These are usually very detailed. But be sure to read them before you leave the store in case you have any questions. Also ask about any materials or tools that may be required for a particular kind of paint.

Many paints are flammable and harmful if taken internally or inhaled. Be sure to read the warning labels which are usually illustrated quite clearly on the container. Always keep any area where you are painting well-ventilated.

While a fresh coat of paint can easily transform any dull room, cupboard or furniture item, you can’t expect all flaws to be magically concealed. Painting requires good surface preparation and some elbow grease before you can splash on new colours.

Start by filling in all holes and cracks with an appropriate filler. When the filler is dry, use a fine sandpaper and sand all surfaces lightly. Then wipe all surfaces to ensure they are dust free. Here are a few tips for different paint jobs:

Bathrooms and kitchens

Because of high moisture, use an enamel rather than a flat paint for walls as well as woodwork. An enamel is easier to clean and less likely to be harmed by moisture. Epoxy paints will hold on sinks, bathtubs, ceramic tiles and other areas that are extremely smooth and exposed to water. These paints mush be handled carefully and require good ventilation.

Basement

A latex masonry paint is good for concrete basement walls. Many paints are designed to dampproof or waterproof basement walls. Their effectiveness depends on how well they are applied. However, it’s virtually impossible to waterproof a basement from the inside simply by applying waterproof paint on the walls.

Use heat-resistant enamels on any surface that gets hot, such as metal pipes. Concrete basement floors must be cleaned before painting. Use a cleaner recommended by the paint manufacturer.

Outdoors

Any paint you use should be designed to withstand the weather. The surfaces – whether aluminum, iron, steel, brick, concrete, wood, wicker, etc. – must be prepared in advance as recommended by the paint manufacturer. Before starting any project, be sure to consult your local paint store representative for ideas and advice.

It’s time for some new flooring in your home, but what do you choose? You like your neighbour’s hardwood floors, but you aren’t sure if they are right for your family’s lifestyle. And what are your choices, anyway? Read on to find out more about your flooring options.

Residential flooring generally comes in four basic types of materials. what is referred to as “resilient” flooring includes all types of tile and sheet vinyls. Ceramic, hardwood products and carpeting are the other three flooring choices.

Vinyl tiles

Vinyl tiles are available in different styles and offer a wide selection of decorative patterns and colours. Frequently they are embossed to make them even more resistant to wear and tear and to improve their appearance. For the do-it-yourselfer, the major advantage is the convenient size, the self-stick backing that many come with and the reasonable price. Even a novice can do a good job of laying these tiles.

Sheet vinyls

Because they have to be cut to fit the floor shape and size ahead of time, sheet vinyls can be more difficult to work with. They also come in a wide variety of colours, patterns and grades at reasonable cost. The “inlaid” types, in which the colour and pattern extend through the thickness of the material, offer a longer life in heavy traffic areas.

Ceramic tiles

These are considered a permanent flooring, good for the life of a room, if they are properly installed. The thicker tiles are designed especially for floors, while thinner ones are intended for wall-use only. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of shapes, patterns, sizes and colours. They are more expensive but longer-lasting than vinyl floor coverings. These tiles can be installed over a smooth, dry concrete or acceptable wood-product subfloor, but never over tongue-and-groove hardwood. They are installed with a special grout mixture and require special attention and care during installation.

Hardwood products

Like ceramic tiles, hardwood flooring products are especially popular in today’s residential housing market. Hardwood products can be used in any room, but extreme care should be taken when installing them in kitchens, bathrooms or over concrete floors. Hardwood floors expand when wet and can buckle. Unless specially treated, they are not recommended for high moisture areas.

Because of their popularity, some hardwood flooring manufacturers have come up with products that can be installed easily by do-it-your selfers. Parquet flooring, for instance, comes in a variety of designs and colours that can give a room the warmth and depth of real wood. It is reasonably priced, comes in tile form, is simple to install and has an easy-care finish.

Carpeting

Carpeting comes in a variety of styles, textures and materials. The most common styles are level loops, also known as indoor/outdoor carpeting, multi-level loops and cut piles. Level loops are often installed in kitchens, basements and other high-traffic areas because they are easier to clean than carpets with higher pile. Multi-level loops offer a compromise between level loops and cut pile carpets. They are still relatively easy to clean and can be quite attractive. Most elegant are cut pile carpets. These can be very plush, but are also more difficult to keep clean.

Most carpets are made of nylon fibres. Nylon is considered the strongest, most stain-resistant and least expensive to manufacture. But it has some disadvantages: it is difficult to clean once stained and can generate a lot of static electricity. To reduce static, often other synthetic fibres are combined with the nylon. Wool carpets are probably the oldest and finest of all carpets; that’s why they are also the most expensive. Many retailers no longer carry wool carpeting, or provide it only on a special-order basis.

Carpets can be installed over any good flooring except other carpeting. Leaving an old carpet and using it as padding under a new one is not recommended. Old carpets always have dirt embedded in the backing, which can work itself up into the new carpeting. Urethane foam padding has generally replaced the old hair-jute pad and rubber waffle padding. It’s easier and cheaper to use for both do-it-your selfers and professionals. In addition, it’s also lighter, longer-lasting and comes in various thicknesses.

Before choosing

Before making any flooring decision, think about the traffic patterns, the size of your family and the wear and tear expected. There’s no point installing light, plush carpeting in an area that will be heavily soiled.

If you are installing the floor yourself, be sure to measure each room carefully. A flooring store representative can help you estimate the amount you will need and offer other advice.

If you are having a floor professionally installed, ensure the retailer sends an estimator to your home ahead of time to take accurate measurements and check the condition of the subfloor. Get a number of estimates from various retailers and ensure the product you select has some form of written guarantee. New floors are expected to last a long time and you should get the most for your money.

Regardless of size, today’s kitchens are no longer merely places to cook a meal. Instead, most new kitchens are bright, airy and sizzle with all kinds of activity. They are often extensions of family rooms, dining and other living areas.

With the variety of materials, unique design ideas, colour choices and modern appliances available today, you can transform almost any kitchen into an attractive, pleasant and efficient hub of activity.

Improving a kitchen can, however, be costly and time-consuming. A kitchen is typically the most expensive room in a house to remodel – appliances, cabinetry, counters, floors, walls, plumbing and wiring – it all adds up!

The key to spending your money wisely when contemplating a complete kitchen renovation – or even just some upgrades – is planning.

Begin by taking an inventory of your present kitchen – what do you like and dislike about it? Is it too dark, too big, too stale-looking, too small to work in or eat in? This list will quickly give you a good idea of what you want in a new kitchen.

Next, ask yourself how your present kitchen fits in with your family’s lifestyle. Do you want your kitchen to be the hub of your home? Do you want to look up recipes on the Internet when you cook, or entertain friends as you chop vegetables? Or do you like to cook alone, away from the noise? If you don’t want people migrating to the kitchen, you may not want to knock out walls and extend the existing space into other living areas.

Also consider the time of year you plan to start remodeling. If you are going to be knocking down walls and windows, stay away from cold months like January. As well, you should avoid remodeling before many family or holiday events.

Finally, decide what kitchen style you like most. The old-fashioned country kitchen is one of today’s popular designs, but you may prefer something more contemporary, or even a combination of styles. If your budget is tight and bite-sized projects are what you are aiming for, here are a few ideas:

Resurface or repaint old cupboards

Paint is inexpensive and can transform wooden cupboards in a matter of hours. Try a new painting technique, a textured look or a zesty combination of colours. You can also resurface old cupboards with wood laminate or one of the new, non-traditional plastic-based materials that resist chipping, denting and staining. Formica counter tops, for example, provide the look and feel of expensive solid surfacing at about half the cost.

Replace a few cabinets with glass ones. Glass and mirrors in a room add the illusion of more space, as well as glamour – especially if you add interior lights to your new cupboards. Go ahead, display that 18th century tea set you inherited from your great grandmother.

Say it with hardware

It’s amazing how new cabinet and drawer handles can change the look of a kitchen! With the many choices in colour, size and style of drawer knobs and handles, there is no limit to what you can achieve.

From gleaming chrome to floral ceramics to unique designs in the shape of spoons, forks, roosters and rabbits, you can easily find something that will give your kitchen that personal touch.

Floor and wall facelifts

Paint, wallpaper and flooring in a variety of textures, styles, colours and patterns can easily spice up a bland kitchen. Add a matching border around a window, below a ceiling or between the cupboards and the counter tops and you can change the mood overnight.

Flooring options feature a wide variety of colours and styles in do-it-yourself, easy-to-install linoleum sheets and tiles, or trickier ceramic and wood floor applications. Be careful not to go overboard. Too much contrast in a small kitchen can make it appear even smaller and more cluttered.

Be innovative

• Vary counter heights to suit the task and the person. Dough-kneading and pie-crust rolling need a special height; so do eating and cooking areas.
• Whenever possible, incorporate counter space next to each appliance.
• Try to achieve a “work triangle” where the stove, refrigerator and sink/dishwasher are within easy reach of one another.
• If you are replacing cabinets, go for the “custom” approach, even if this costs a little extra. Under the customized approach, cabinetry is designed and built specifically to fit your particular kitchen space.
• A good kitchen should not only look great but stand up to daily wear and tear. It should function well and enable people to move freely between it and related areas of the house.
• If you plan to completely remodel the kitchen, be honest about your ability. You may want to leave this important job in the hands of an expert who can do the work quickly and professionally.
• A kitchen designer/contractor can suggest unique ideas and come up with creative solutions to particular problems. Be sure to get at least two quotes on the work you plan to do and compare them carefully.

Improving the “look” of your home can not only make it more attractive and comfortable but it may also increase the market value of the property.

The wisest improvements in any home are those that bring it up to the standards of other properties in the immediate area. If most properties have garages or carports, central air and fireplaces, these are well-worth adding. Other good improvements that enhance the exterior of your home are adding terraces, wooden decks and fences that increase privacy. Shade trees, shrubs and landscaping that is easy to keep up also add value.

Very specialized improvements, unless strictly for your own enjoyment, are not a good idea because the money spent may not be returned through added value. Saunas, home gyms, green houses and dark rooms are examples of personalized improvements that have limited demand and, as a result, little added value.

Making your home more attractive doesn’t always require major improvements, changing the colour scheme, repainting, paneling, hanging new wall coverings and installing new lighting and flooring can help give your home the facelift it needs without breaking your budget.

Take stock

Before you begin any improvements, take stock of what you have. Try to work any new colour schemes with the furnishings you want to keep. For continuity and to create spaciousness, maintain the same colour scheme through the living areas of the home, varying only the accent colour from room to room. Also stick to one style, whether traditional or contemporary. Personal spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms can depart from the overall style and theme.

Get free advice

While planning your home’s facelift, take advantage of free advice available from paint stores, wallpaper outlets, fabric shops, picture framers, furniture and craft stores. Take home samples whenever you can and take your time. Scale, size and colour are dramatically different in a store setting. Samples may appear completely different in your home

Paint it all

When it comes to home decorating, colour is your best friend. Colours can visually enlarge or reduce the size of a room; heighten or lower a ceiling. And there is nothing that comes in more colours than paint One of the best ways to update your home on a tight budget is to use paint. Paint can transfer dated cupboards and vanities too.

A driveway can say as much about a home as the home itself. Most homeowners don’t give much thought to their driveway, especially if it’s safe, durable and attractive. But a problem driveway can become a homeowner’s nightmare and can affect the appearance and value of the property.

A gravel driveway, for example works well in rural and wooded properties where the home is set back a distance from the road. But even on long, flat road stretches, gravel can easily be washed out by a major downpour. Meanwhile, a steep driveway – regardless of the surface finish – can collect so much ice in winter that your car just never makes it up. Then you have the driveway that feeds into the intersection of two or three streets. No matter how perfect, this driveway is a daily traffic challenge. Finally, there are the driveways of some older homes that are so narrow some cars just can’t squeeze through.

But a driveway is for more than just cars. If you are considering re-doing yours, take time to think about how it will be used. Will your cars be parked in the garage or on the drive? Are your kids going to be shooting hoops on the driveway? Where do you plan to put the snow when you shovel your drive? How long is it? Before deciding when and how to resurface your driveway, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Take measure

Driveways should be as straight and short as possible. The main exception is a driveway on a steep lot: by lengthening the drive, you can reduce the grade. Any grade that exceeds a 12-foot rise in 100 feet (12 per cent) is not ideal. But driveways shouldn’t be totally level either; if you want surface water to drain away from your home, you need a minimum two percent slope.

Check your subsoil

Before deciding on what finish surface you want, consider what’s supporting your driveway. Soils behave differently depending on their composition. Organic soils such as peat, for example, are not very good at holding up anything – especially a driveway supporting heavy vehicles. Clay and silt soils turn to mud easily. Sandy soils are great because they drain well. But soils that blend clay, silt and sand or gravel are also very adequate, if well drained.

If you don’t know what kind of soil you are sitting on, it might be worth getting a soil expert to test it. You can less accurately test the soil yourself by stripping a patch of topsoil and seeing how well the subsoil drains in a heavy rain.

Consider surface options

The four most common driveway finish surfaces are asphalt, concrete, gravel and pavers. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each before deciding which finish surface is best for you.

Asphalt - This is a common material used for driveways. It is fairly inexpensive and durable but definitely not a do-it-yourself project. The asphalt must be placed while still hot from the delivery truck. It is spread in an even layer and compacted with a roller before it cools down.

While durable, asphalt can soften and is easily gouged in hot temperatures. This is actually an advantage in cold temperatures. Because it absorbs the heat, ice and snow melt faster on asphalt than on some other surfaces. Unfortunately, gasoline and motor oil also dissolve on it and spills can leave permanent spots. Materials are often added to the asphalt to create a longer-lasting finish, but this generally increases the cost.

Concrete – Basic concrete slabs can cost about twice as much as asphalt for the same size driveway, but are longer-lasting. Pouring the cement slabs requires a certain degree of expertise and most homeowners should hire a professional to do the job. An alternative to the standard white concrete slab is to expose the aggregate below. This creates a rougher surface which is attractive and provides good traction.

Gravel – Gravel is probably the most inexpensive surface finish for driveways, but can be a lot of work. If you don’t keep runoff from rain and snow away from the driveway, you could find yourself shoveling it back off the street regularly. Also, it’s difficult to keep gravel in place on higher grades. Putting more gravel down is not the solution. Gravel should not be spread more than two inches in depth. The more you put down, the worse it is for traction.

Pavers - The Romans built their roads with packed aggregate and cobblestone pavers for good reason. It kept their feel and wheels dry. This technology works just as well today. Fortunately, we’re no longer limited to just using cobblestones. Interlocking concrete pavers today come in all shapes, colours, sizes, styles and textures. They not only beautify the overall appearance of a home but can last half a century or more when installed correctly. Poured concrete, asphalt and gravel have a much shorter life span.

Because they are time-consuming to install, pavers can be quite expensive, especially if you have a large driveway. But the added value may be well worth the extra cost. Driveway pavers can be coordinated with pavers in other areas such as walkways, patios, pool decks and gardens. They don’t crack with the freeze-thaw cycle in winter, provide excellent traction, resist de-icing salts and any oil or antifreeze that may leak from vehicles.

We’ve come a long way from the thatched roofs that many of our ancestors used to cover the shelters they called home. Traditional and new roofing materials are better than ever and available in many varieties and price ranges. Regardless of the materials used, a new roof will add curb appeal to a home and increase its resale value.

When buying a home, one important feature to consider is the condition of the roof. Generally, if the roof is more than 15 years old, chances are you’ll have to replace it soon. This cost should be factored into the purchase price of the home.

Whether you are purchasing a home or concerned about the condition of the roof on your existing home, spring is by far the best time to do an inspection. This is when winter damage is fresh and the dryer weather ahead will provide the conditions needed to replace, patch or re-roof.

Depending on the roofing material used, look for obvious damage – cracked tiles, missing shingles, warned or gapping wood shakes. With asphalt roofs, look for thick, weather-worn shingles. On a warm day, gently bend a few shingles back. If they aren’t flexible or if they crumble, consider re-roofing.

Before re-roofing with asphalt shingles, lift a few shingles that are located away from the edge to see if there is another layer of shingles below. If there is, you’ll need to have all the layers of old shingles removed before re-roofing. However, if the roofing material is less than 15 years old and there are only a few bad spots, you may only have to patch these up. Asphalt shingle repair is simple and inexpensive. This is a job you could consider doing yourself.

Roofs can be deceiving. Sometimes you can’t spot the damage from the outside. If you suspect a problem, inspect the roof from the attic or crawl space. Check for dampness and dark water stains.

What’s up in roofing materials

When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles still offer the greatest versatility and continue to be popular among homeowners. Available in a vast array of colours and textures, asphalt shingles can conform to any shape. Compared to some roofing materials, they are inexpensive and easy to install and repair.

As a roofing material, wood shingles and shakes are less popular these days. While any homeowners prefer the bold, traditional, sculptured look wood shingles and shakes give a home, concerns have been raised about how well they can resist fire.

Cement and clay tiles enjoy a certain popularity and they come in a variety of colours, shapes and textures. They can, however, be both expensive and heavy and not the best choice for many homes. Some companies now offer high-tech alternatives to traditional roofing materials. These combine versatility, light weight and durability with high fire, weather, insect and mould resistance properties.

Lightweight aluminum roof shakes, for example, also help lower energy costs by keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Other roofs use fibre-reinforced cement that weighs about the same as wood or premium shingles and comes in slate, shingle or wood shake forms.

Some roofs use earth stone granules and acrylic resin bonded to aluminum or galvanized steel bases to capture the pleasing look of tiles or the rich textures and strong lines of wood shingles.

These new roofing materials often come in a variety of colours, shapes, textures and sizes. They are generally more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles. But in most cases, the extra cost is well worth it. Some of them are backed by a 50 year guarantee, and most will look as good 20 years and more from now as the day they were installed.

The bathroom is often the smallest room in your house, but it generally gets the most traffic. It’s also the room that is visited by almost every guest in your home, so why not spruce it up and give it style?

Bathrooms today are more than just practical, necessary spaces. The bathroom is a place where you can renew both body and spirit; it can be luxurious as well as functional and efficient. Whether you are thinking of a quick facelift, weekend project or total renovation, be sure to plan your project very carefully. If you are thinking of a major renovation, check with your local municipality to see what permits are required.

What’s your style?

Big or small, the size of the bathroom doesn’t matter; it is the style and personality that you create within the space. Are you drawn to a romantic country look, traditional elegance or simple, clean lines?

Do your homework -visit supplier web sites, read trade magazines, tour showrooms and building centres. If the project entails a change or additional fixtures and accessories -sink, toilet, tub, steam shower unit or custom cabinets -you will find loads of options available. Next, decide if the job is something you can handle yourself or if you need to enlist the help of professionals. Redoing a bathroom can involve a lot more than just plumbing. From stripping the existing room to doing structural, electrical and plumbing work to installing fixtures, cabinets and finishing touches, a bathroom can involve many different trades whose work must be coordinated and kept within your budget.

A professional can identify problems and solutions before the work even begins: an uneven floor that results in incomplete draining of your bathtub, for instance, or rotted flooring from years of water penetration. An experienced contractor will make sure that plumbing, venting, electrical wiring and outlets all conform with building codes in your area. Whether you hire a contractor or have the skill to go it alone, you have many options in terms of style, products, finishes, price and suppliers. Begin your bathroom make over from the floor up. Since the bathroom is usually smaller compared to other rooms in the house, it is often affordable to indulge in a few luxuries. For example, radiant heating under ceramic tiled floors is a nice extra.

Think outside of the “traditional” bathroom box. The bathroom is a room for living, so it needs furniture and accessory items like all other living spaces.

Lighting your way

Lighting in a bathroom is one of the most important design elements of the rooms. It is imperative to have good lighting for the functional aspects of the space: shaving and make-up application.

Good grooming demands adequate lighting. Plan for lighting from above and from the sides of the mirror area. Mood lighting is also nice for those quiet times, so put your overhead lights on a dimmer switch and be sure to accessorize with candles.

Changing the wall texture and colour is one of the easiest changes you can make in a room. In a small powder room, go for drama. Since this space is used for only short, functional visits, you can be especially daring and creative. The size of the space also allows you to use materials that may be otherwise prohibitively expensive -wallpapers, custom faux finishes or even fabric- or metal-paneled walls. Darker colours create personality and impact.

In a bathroom that is used by the homeowners and guests for daily grooming, make-up application and shaving, colour needs to be carefully selected. Skin colour needs to be as real as possible, so take into consideration that wall colour will reflect onto your skin in the room. Neutrals, peach, mango, taupe, gray and soft yellows are good choices to maintain “real” skin tones. Use additional dramatic or vibrant colours as accents.

The next step in your bathroom make over is the detailing. Small touches provide efficient storage and a feeling of luxury. Is there room for a bench or chair? A seat provides a place to sit and a place to lay clothing. Be creative. Conveniences

If you enjoy lounging in the tub but hate to miss the morning news, install a wall-mounted television set, or a shower radio. A clock is an important -but often overlooked -bathroom detail.

Warming drawers and towel heaters are other excellent pampering additions to the bathroom. Use baskets, glass shelves installed above the toilet, or wine bottle holders to store extra towels and bottles of shampoos, conditioners and bath oils.

Renovating a kitchen can also be one of the more expensive projects a homeowner will undertake. How much you spend depends on your budget, of course, but also on the length of time you expect to stay in that house. If, for example, you are remodeling your kitchen as a face-lift prior to selling it, it is recommended that you spend no more than 10 -15% of the cost of your house. If you are going to remain in your house for more than five years, you can spend 25% or more -and in most cases you will recoup the cost of the renovation when you sell.

How much will it cost?

Inexpensive kitchen renovations can cost you $2,000 -$3,000 for a cosmetic facelift with no new cabinets, plumbing or electrical changes. Look to spend about $8,000 to $10,000 if you choose new low-end cabinetry, counters, appliances, flooring, paint and some minor structural changes. However, the sky is the limit when it comes to a new kitchen and you can expect to pay $20,000 and up for high quality cabinets, custom work and many upgrades.

Keeping costs down

There are ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality when updating your kitchen. Regardless of what you budget, do not skimp on design, appliances or labour. These are the basis for a functional kitchen and you should get the best you can afford. To keep costs to a minimum, use stock cabinets instead of custom work, laminates instead of solids and hang on to your current appliances if you can. Also try to keep your existing plumbing and electrical and don’t make structural changes to the room.

Planning ahead in detail will also save you money. Any changes or corrections halfway through the process will prove to be expensive.

If your budget is tight and small projects are what you are aiming for, here are a few ideas:

Resurface or repaint old cupboards

Paint is inexpensive and can transform wooden cupboards in a matter of hours. Try a new painting technique, or a textured look or a zesty combination of colours. You can also resurface old cupboards with wood laminates, or one of the new, non-traditional plastic-based materials that resist chipping, denting and staining. Formica counter tops, for example, provide the look and feel of expensive solid surfacing at about half the cost.

Use more glass

Replace a few cabinets with glass ones. Glass and mirrors in a room add the illusion of more space as well as glamour -especially if you add interior lights to your new cupboards.

Change your hardware

Simply adding new cabinet and drawer handles can change the look of a kitchen. With the many choices in colour, size and style of drawer knobs and handles, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Everything from ceramic to metal to stone is available in many choices of colour, size and style so you can give your kitchen a personal touch.

Floor and wall facelifts

Paint, wallpaper and flooring can easily spice up a bland kitchen. Stencil a border around a window, below a ceiling or between the cupboards and you can change the mood overnight.

Flooring options feature a wide variety of colours and styles in linoleum, ceramic and wood floor applications. But be careful; too much contrast in a small kitchen can make it appear even smaller and more cluttered.

Be innovative

A good kitchen should not only look great, but stand up to daily wear and tear. If should function well and enable people to move freely between it and related areas of the house.

If you plan to completely remodel the kitchen, be honest about your ability. You may want to leave this important job in the hands of an expert who can do the work quickly and professionally. A kitchen designer or contractor can suggest unique ideas and come up with creative solutions to particular problems.

Finally, be sure to get at least two quotations on the work you plan to do and compare them carefully before making your choice.

By simplifying and organizing space, you will actually spend less time looking for things – or looking for places to put things -and have more time to concentrate on enjoying life. A clutter-free environment also means you may spend less money shopping for things you don’t need …and may already own but can’t find.

Here are a few tips to get you started in uncluttering your space.

Make a list of ways to cut down on clutter. What can you get rid of? What can you put away in boxes or bins. For example, if you keep tripping over your children’s toys, try putting half of them away in bins and out of sight for six months; chances are your children won’t miss those toys and when you bring them out six months later they will seem brand new.

After your list is complete, made a schedule and commit to tackling one de-cluttering project a month. For instance, June could be your month to cull winter clothing and send unworn garments to Goodwill or the Salvation Army; July might be the time to clear out old newspapers, magazines and catalogs and August the time to clean out the garage.

Getting organized

Once you have de-cluttered your home, keeping it clutter-free can be a major challenge, especially for growing families. Disorganized clutter has a way of surfacing regardless of how often you put it away. Bathrooms, kitchens and closets of older homes in particular provide little storage space, and without enough space to put things in or on, those areas can get disorderly very quickly.

Overlooked spaces

Most homes are filled with overlooked storage spaces; all you need is a sharp eye to find them. A closet, for example, can be built in a free corner of any room -bedroom, bathroom, den, etc. Other, less obvious spaces include window wells, the area behind attic knee walls. The backs of doors, under the beds, hanging shelves in the garage over the car hook, along walls, under stairs and in wall alcoves.

Adjustable shelves and modular storage units are your best bet to add and reorganize storage space. These can be regrouped, added to or used separately as storage needs change. To avoid piling things up, use many small shelves and compartments. They look neater and make it easier to put things back in place.

In the bathroom

With all the toiletries, cosmetics, medications, soaps and towels, this can be a very disorderly area. Here are some tips to make the area safer and clutter-free:

• Mount a wall cabinet about a foot above the toilet. To avoid hitting it, ensure it is no more than eight inches deep.
• Place a shelf just above the sink to place all the things that now sit on the counter area.
• Combine wall shelving with towel bars.
• Below the sink or counter, install pull-out shelving to make better use of wasted space.
• Add a magazine or book rack to the wall.
• Use storage gadgets such as shower caddies, soap dishes, trays and other containers.

In the kitchen

Kitchens are also notorious for collecting clutter. Try some of these tips:

• Add shelving to the backs of doors, pullout shelving to cupboards and freestanding shelving to empty corners.
• Pull-down under-cabinet racks and handy flip-down plastic trays put storage right at your fingertips. Put the walls to work by adding shelving and other clutter savers such as vinyl-coated inch-deep wire wall grids that you can add hooks and baskets to.

Closet organizers

Most closets are full, but mostly of wasted space. A typical closet consists of a rod, a shelf and a floor a combination that does little to maximize space.

The best way to get the most use out of a closet is to install a closet system there are many to choose from or make your own. Most ready-to-assemble closet systems have three basic components: wardrobe shelving, linen/shoe racks and baskets to work with the framing system.

Closet systems, whether built-in or modular, multiply your closet capacity. They are also useful in organizing walk-in closets, which can also get very disorganized.

Where to store things

Try to store objects where you use them the most.

Keep frequently-used items between knee level and no more than 10 inches above your head. .Put items you use less often on higher or lower shelves.

For safety and convenience, store heavier items below waist level.

To gain more space for the things you use every day, put rarely-needed and out-of-season items in clearly labeled boxes or bags and keep them in your home’s less accessible storage areas.

Main floor family rooms have been the trend in many newer homes, but when there is no extra outdoor space for an addition or you want to save money, your basement may be the answer to your space problems.

This isn’t a return to the “rec” room of the past. With the variety of new materials and innovative building techniques available today, the sky’s the limit for the lowest level of your home. Light-toned floorings and wall coverings and specialty lighting can turn even a dark, cramped space into a cozy, pleasant room. Whether it’s a home theatre, a games room, a home office, an exercise gym or just a place to relax at the end of the day, with the right paint, furnishings, wall and floor coverings, you can create almost any atmosphere you want.

Converting a basement into a comfortable living space also have several advantages. It usually costs less to renovate a basement than to build an addition. Basements are also removed from the main household traffic areas, making them the perfect place to watch a movie, work from home or give the kids their own space.

Before deciding what to include in a basement renovation, determine what your family will benefit from the most in years to come. If you plan to knock down walls and install creature comforts such as a home spa, wine cellar, big screen television, pool or shuffleboard tables, be sure to measure the cost against the long-term use of these features. Also, take measurements; you want to be sure you can fit big-size items down the stairs and into your new space.

Most basements present two key problems: too much moisture and a lack of natural light. Any renovation plans should try to compensate for both.

Moisture

If the air in your basement feels damp occasionally, the solution may be as simple as adding a number of dehumidifiers to the new rooms. Most basement wetness/moisture is caused by inadequate drainage away from the house and foundation. Landscaping improvements around the exterior of your home can often resolve this problem. You may want to consult with a basement specialist before deciding what to do.

Light

Most basements, even ones with walkouts, lack natural light. A wide variety of lighting fixtures and features are available today to help you solve that problem. Task lighting, dimmers, accent and other forms of lighting can be used to provide the brightness and atmosphere you want for different rooms or activities.

Other problems

Turning a basement into a high-quality living space can present significant problems in some homes, especially older ones. A variety of posts, ducts and other structural challenges can turn a simple project into a complex renovation exercise. Some older homes, for example, have low basement ceilings. To get more head room or meet building standards, the basement floor may have to be lowered. This is an expensive and difficult undertaking. Most people will benefit from hiring a reputable basement renovation company to do this kind of major work.

Hiring a contractor

If you plan to hire a contractor to do the renovation, interview and get quotes from several before selecting one. A good contractor will be able to advise you on everything that’s needed to create the kind of space you want for the amount of money you have in mind.

When you select a company, be sure to get a signed contract that outlines in detail the scope of the work and the payment schedule.