The Three “Rs” for Living Space Improvement

The Three “Rs” for Living Space Improvement

Think your living space is too small, lacks lighting, or simply doesn’t work for you anymore? It may be time to rethink your living space. Looking for more efficient ways to make use of your space and improve your home isn’t as difficult as advanced calculus, you just need to follow the three “Rs”: remove, repurpose, revive.

Remove

One of the easiest methods of making a space appear larger than it actually is, is to stick to the ‘no clutter’ rule.  To help remove clutter make use of the backs of cupboard and wardrobe doors that are out of sight, install under shelf storage to store things in wire trays and baskets, and make use of ‘dead space’ with vertical storage solutions.

Is de-cluttering not enough? Consider removing a wall to turn two cramped rooms into one open area with better lighting, and a more spacious feeling.  Consult a professional to establish if it’s a load bearing wall, and if it carries wires, pipes, or heating ducts.

Repurpose

Rather than accepting designated room labels, perhaps it’s time to consider your family’s lifestyle and needs and tailor your home to meet them.

A formal dining room can be made part-library for book lovers. Adding bookshelves and a comfortable chair invites the readers in your family to sit and relax. If book shelves don’t work in your dining room, move them to the back foyer; it’s often an underutilized space that can also be used for storage, with hooks, shelves, and cabinets.

If your living room is doing a lot of multitasking as the televison, computer, games, and homework spot, consider sub-dividing it into two separate areas. Bring in a casual dining table or desk for the work area, and make use of a sectional, carpet, or even a bookshelf to divide it from the relaxing area.

Revive

Your space may simply need sprucing up to help revive its look. Paint is the number one way to freshen and change the whole look of a room, even if it means painting one wall to contrast the other three. Complement new paint with new cushions or an area rug that fits your color scheme.

To dress up and soften the windows, add a ready-made panel curtain over the blinds, then tie it to one side. And to really lighten up a room, add recessed lighting such as downlights or floodlights that don’t take up extra space.

Make your space enjoyable by removing, repurposing, and reviving, and you’ll fall in love with your home all over again!

Home is Where the… Office is

10 per cent of Canada’s labor force – or 2.5 million Canadians – work outside the office at least one day a week* and 80 per cent of households own at least one computer. These are just two reasons why building an office in your home is a good investment. Whether it’s for business or personal use, here’s a few ways to ensure your new home office is both functional and comfortable.

Your first step is to find the ideal space for your home office. Look for a room with enough space to accommodate a desk, office chair, bookshelf, and equipment such as a fax machine, printer, or filing cabinet. If possible, ensure the room isn’t too close to high traffic areas like the kitchen, living room or any other area that may cause distractions. You’ll also want your room to have sufficient natural light, ventilation and easy access to phone lines and electrical outlets.

If finding the perfect space for your office proves difficult, you can always try transforming a large storage area, walk-in closet, or even a section of the basement. Partitioning an existing room is also possible with the help of a few strategically placed bookshelves.

Next you’ll want to plan your work area. To save time and a lot of moving, measure your furniture and the room’s dimensions and draw up a floor plan beforehand. Make sure to leave a clear path from the office door to your seat to prevent constant maneuvering around furniture, and situate your desk near electrical plugs and phone jacks. Install shelving behind your desk for easy access to books and supplies, and position your computer screen at a 90 degree angle from any light source to avoid any glare while you work.

Your final step is to add some style to your office. First choose a color scheme. Warmer colors like reds and yellows make for a comfortable, upbeat environment, while pastels and darker colors will give you a sophisticated, classy look. Give some visual punch to your office by adding paintings, sculptures, framed photos, or sports memorabilia to walls and bookshelves. Finally, use flowers or green plants to create a little ambiance and improve the air quality. Now your new home office will be ready for work, rest, or play.

Marketing Your Home

If you’re thinking of selling your home, you need a marketing plan. Just like any other product people buy or sell, a home’s value must be communicated to the proper audience to ensure the seller gets the best possible price.

Marketing your home means more than putting up a For Sale sign and sticking an ad in your local newspaper. You need to have a complete marketing plan that takes into account your home’s unique qualities, your objectives, and details the specific resources available to you.

Your planning should begin as soon as you choose a Real Estate Agent, and often even before that. Part of your marketing plan will involve pricing your property, deciding when to list it and what features need to be cleaned or repaired. At this stage it is essential that you are completely honest with your Real Estate Agent about the condition of your home, your financial needs and any time constraints.

Once you have the basic information established, you need to get to the “guts” of the marketing plan, or determine how best to let people know that your home is for sale and, get them excited about it. You need to keep in mind when you are planning that there are two key target audiences: home buyers and other Real Estate Agents. You will need different marketing vehicles and slightly different information to effectively reach each audience.

There are a myriad marketing products and activities that can be utilized to help sell your home and your Real Estate Agent with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), newspaper advertising, brochures, open houses, neighbourhood mailings, etc

Your Real Estate Agent can help you determine which tools will be most beneficial in your particular situation and market. Whatever the plan you decide on, make certain that you are an active part of it. Reviewing the plan’s success on a regular basis should be a built-in part of any successful marketing plan. This article just gives a sampling of the many ways there are to market your home, to ensure the best price possible.

To get more information on how I can help you put one together, contact me directly!

A Home Away From Home

Do you have a dream of owning a place outside of the city where you can escape, kick back and relax? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, a recent Property Report found that in the next two years, there will be seven prospective cottage or recreational property purchasers for every two owners that plan to sell. As demand continues to increase and average prices continue to rise, now more than ever you will need to be patient, establish a list of ‘musts’ and work with a Realtor who understands the recreational market, if you want your dreams to come true.

To begin your search, target potential areas and consider a road-trip to visit your most coveted spots. Once you find your ideal location, narrow your search by establishing a list of priorities. Do you plan to use your recreational property for seasonal versus year-round use? Do you wish to build a new cottage or buy an existing one? What are your hobbies? Is proximity to hospitals, public transit or schools important? If you are near water, lakes can vary tremendously in terms of allowances for boating, fishing and swimming. In the winter, do you want to use both cross-country and downhill skiing facilities?

With your priorities established, you will also be in a strong position to act fast if you need to. Popular sites are in demand. In fact, according to a recent report, only 17 per cent of current cottage owners claim that they will consider selling in the next two to three years.

Buying a recreational property can be considerably more complex than a standard home purchase and it generally takes longer. There is considerably more time and travel involved. The effort, according to a growing number of Canadians, is more than worth it.

Before you begin your search, give me a call. I can get you started down the right path toward your home away from home. If I cannot assist you directly in your purchase transaction, I can refer you to a qualified Real Estate Agent in your desired area.

Grandma’s Coming to Live with Us

 

When different generations live together under the same roof it can be a very rewarding experience for all members of the family. Sitting down together to have a meal, a conversation, or watch a movie is a great way to keep a family close. However, everyone likes to have their own space now and then, so if you’re planning a home renovation to accommodate grandparents, here are some tips to ensure that the new space is comfortable for all, and senior-safe.

Kitchen – If your renovations include a small kitchen, keep it simple with a counter top range, microwave, toaster and electric kettle. Heavy items should be stored in lower cupboards, and a non-slip footstool should be handy for easy access to upper shelves.

Bathroom – When possible, it would be ideal for grandma to have her own bathroom. Walk-in showers are easier than tubs for elderly people to get in and out of. For added safety install some slip grips on the floor and put in a shower bench and hand held showerhead. A toilet riser base, plus a grab bar on the wall, will make life easier and safer for grandma too.

Fall Prevention – Falls are one of the biggest worries for seniors, and the major tripping hazards are pets, wires and rugs. For this reason, thick cushioned carpeting is preferable to slippery rugs or hardwood flooring. To reduce the risk of accidents keep rooms and high-traffic areas clutter-free.

Furniture Safety – Secure bookcases and heavy furniture to the walls and try to avoid furniture with sharp corners; choose round or oval tables if possible. Grandma will likely want to keep some familiar pieces, but depending on the size of her new place in your home, it may be wise to share excess furniture with other family members, put it in storage, or even sell it.

If a grandparent is relocating to an entirely new area to move in with you, try to make the transition as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Consider looking into senior programs in your community. A good starting point may be your local Recreation Centre. Everyone likes company in their own age group from time to time, and if grandma is happy, you’ll be happy too!

Grow Your Garden’s Appeal with a Splendid Shed

Garden sheds are no longer just a dumping place for tools and flower pots. They have become a focal point of the garden itself. These days a shed can help beautify your garden, become an attractive place to relax, and bring a little “backyard appeal” to your home. So whether you plan to add a shed or upgrade your present one, here are some steps to assist you:

Plan Ahead for Your Shed
When considering where to place a new shed, there are three criteria: location, location, location. Make sure it’s not going to block plants from the sun, it isn’t in a spot that collects a lot of water, it’s not intruding on any high traffic areas of the yard, and it’s in an area that maximizes privacy.

The size of your shed will be based on what you’ll use it for. Are you storing large items like a ride-on mower or swimming pool pump? If so, ensure your shed is adequately sized, with double doors and ramp for easy access. Check with your municipality to ensure that the size and position of your shed meets all regulations.

Shed the Drab, Go for Fab
Even the most ordinary garden shed can be transformed with a little paint and simple decor. No matter what your shed is made of, get a rustic look by painting it in a muted earth tone, and adding barn door hinges. If quaint and cozy is what you want, paint the shed a light color, complemented with darker shutters and window boxes. Go bold for the door with a dramatic color like red or violet.

Create a fancier, Victorian style shed with an octagonal window or arched glass insert in the door and complete the look with a gingerbread trim. Or, let your garden shed reflect your hobbies, such as sailing or fishing, with Cape Cod colors complemented with hanging fishing nets, oars, or lobster traps.

Accessorize for Added Intrigue and Comfort
Final touches to your shed make it more appealing to look at, and relax by. Create a stone pathway to the front door and spray-paint an old chair to sit out front. For added comfort, include a bench with cushions or a rocking chair for the days you want to sit in your garden and enjoy a good book.

A garden shed adds charm and character to your outdoor space, a good reflection on you!

Drive Up Your Curb Appeal

Is your home’s first impression being hindered by a bland driveway, or an eyesore of a walkway? If so, it might be time to kick start your curb appeal with a few upgrades.  From repairing to repaving, a little attention to your home’s entryway goes a long way when it comes to wowing visitors & potential home buyers.

Revitalize with Repairs

The easiest way to enhance your walkway and driveway is with simple repairs and resurfacing.  Repair cracks with rubberized asphalt crack filler or pourable grout.  When dry, pour water over the surface to ensure it is angled so that the water runs off, as standing water is the most common cause of cracks. Once complete, coat with an appropriate sealer and your driveway will look like new again.

Pave the Way to Wow

An asphalt driveway is relatively inexpensive and is less prone to cracks and heaving than concrete.  Add eye-appeal to an asphalt driveway by lining it with a row of trees, shrubs or other greenery, or by adding a decorative lamp post for aesthetic appeal day and night.  Alternatively, a brick or cobblestone driveway costs more, but can add a lot of elegance to your home’s entryway.

Go for Gravel

If paving isn’t in your plans, adding crushed gravel to a dirt driveway is always an option.  Gravel is great for bringing definition to your driveway, especially if you change its contour by adding an inviting curve.  For a more formal appearance, consider colored gravel: blue-grey, red or white.  Edge a small stone gravel driveway with bricks for a finished look.

Talk with Your Walkway

If the entryway to your front door could speak, it should say “welcome”.  Transform it with stained or stamped concrete pavers, stone, flagstones or brick.  A curved walkway provides a natural, meandering feeling while a straight one is more directional. Embellish a short straight walkway with a row of bricks or pavers on either side and soften with groundcover overflowing the edges or line with low lying, attractive plants.

Neat and Tidy Gets Noticed

No room for a driveway or walkway renovation in your budget? Keep things looking good by removing unsightly weeds.  Trim grass edges for a neat, cared-for appearance.  A couple of large pots, overflowing with bright flowers leading up to your front door creates a pleasing, welcoming feature.

Curb appeal is paramount for showcasing not only your property’s individuality, but to tell prospective buyers that your home is as well-maintained inside as it is outside.

Curb Appeal is Critical

Alluring, or ho-hum:  how’s your curb appeal?  When you are ready to sell your home, be sure to pay close attention to the exterior and strive for that wow factor. You want your home to standout and shine!

Prospective buyers driving past your property will make snap judgments on whether they want to slow down & see your home, or drive by.  If the exterior is poorly maintained, with uncut grass, peeling paint on the windows, a dowdy door, or sinking eaves troughs, they’ll assume the inside is just as uncared for.  But if a buyer sees an attractive, appealing façade with a nice-looking lawn to boot, they’re going to want to see more.

Beckon buyers up to your front door by painting it in a contrasting color to the rest of your house.  Dark jewel tones of red, blue or green will add a little drama. Consider embellishing the door further with an ornate knocker, polished-metal kickplate or a sumptuous seasonal wreath. Replace plain doorknob hardware with something more attractive.

If your light fixtures and house numbers are looking dull, add a fresh coat of paint to make them look like new. Brass accessories should shine or you may want to refinish them. On a cool, dull day leave lights on: warm lighting creates a cozy ambiance.

Outside your door, planters or urns in resin or cast iron add appeal and interest.  In the fall, fill them with colorful chrysanthemums that will last through to the first frost. When signs of winter appear, consider using tall evergreens or dogwood.

An imaginative mailbox adds character to your front door, whether it is a whimsical wood box made to look like a country cottage or a wrought iron creation with the antique look of yesteryear.

If you have pets (especially dogs), clean up any waste and ensure there are no lingering pet odors.  Consider taking Fido for a walk if you’re going to show your home.  Not all prospective buyers are animal lovers, and a barking dog could intimidate them. Also, be sure the lawn and/or landscaping is in pristine condition.

Buy a new Welcome mat!  It’s simple but effective.  When prospective buyers step from the impressive outside of your house to the inside, and see clean, clutter free rooms, they’ll be better able to picture themselves living in it.  They’ll hopefully feel right at home, and you will have succeeded in creating a memorable first impression.

For tips on How to Drive Up Your Curb Appeal, please contact me.

Take your Winter Garden from Drab to Fab!

A garden is our little piece of paradise, a place to appreciate nature in its changing seasons, and winter is no exception. With a little planning you can go outside and enjoy the fresh air and exhilaration of your garden right through the winter.

Create color by incorporating some evergreens into your garden setting, including pine, fir and holly. Leave tall grasses or plants untrimmed as they’ll look sensational dusted with snow, especially red dogwood. Add more visual interest with bright bird houses, bird baths and statuary. Condo owners with balconies can create a mini garden: put winter kale and branches in a planter and surround with your favorite green boughs, which can last up to three months.

Sit outside on your garden furniture and soak up some sun out of the wind. By treating and protecting your wood or metal furniture it can be left outdoors so you have a front row seat to winter’s wonder. Take the chill off the air with an overhead patio heater, which will keep you warm and comfortable and also provide light for nighttime. If permitted in your municipality, a fire pit adds an extra glow, especially when you sit around it with your favorite people toasting marshmallows, or sipping cups of hot chocolate.

Winter lighting adds an extra dimension to your garden or balcony. Solar lights provide a soft glow to a snowy landscape, or simply wrap a small tree or bush with a string of white LED mini lights. Lights add an element of wonder to dark winter nights.

Too tired to go outside after a long day at work? A hot tub in your garden is a perfect place to unwind and wash your troubles away, or to soothe aching muscles after shoveling mountains of snow from the driveway. Picture yourself immersed in hot bubbling water as snowflakes fall around you.

Taking time to sit and relax is good for you, and the quiet serenity of a winter garden is perfect for reflection or meditating. Take your camera outside and capture the sights of a Canadian winter in all its wonder. Snow has a way of making everything look magical so don’t miss out on the special experience of being out and about in your own winter wonderland.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Georgina is getting better and better all the time!

There has been a lot happening in our fair town in the past few months.  The ROC opened.  Woodbine is complete.  There is even a new coffee shop, fitness centre and a “mystery building” on the Queensway South.

Spring is just around the corner.  This is the time of year when we often reflect upon our surroundings, which may include your home.  We may question, “Should I move? Or Should I stay?”  The time may have come for you to buy a bigger home, a smaller home, an investment property, a cottage, or country property.  You may decide to sell your home and not buy another home, but rather use the equity you have in it for some other purpose.

Whatever you are contemplating, there are a things you may wish to consider.

Finances:  Do I understand my mortgage?  How much is outstanding? When does it mature? What is my interest rate and term? Can it be assumed? Can I port my mortgage with me? Is there a penalty if I were to sell now?

Market Conditions:  Is it a Buyer’s Market or a Seller’s Market?  How does my home compare to similar homes on the market? How does my home compare to similar homes that have sold recently? Are there a lot of homes presently available in my home’s price range? 

Equity and Costs of Selling:  What does “equity” mean?  How much equity do I have in my home after expenses?  What expenses should I expect to incur when I sell my home?  What are my options when selling? 

Enlist a Professional:  A Real Estate Professional can help you get answers to all of these questions.  They can:

Refer you to professional Mortgage Specialists who will assist you in determining your financing needs and answer all of your mortgage related questions.

Provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis of your property to determine Fair Market Value.

Calculate the costs associated with Selling.

Help you determine how much you can afford for your next home, if that is your next step, or how much you will have to invest once you have sold your home.

Offer you tips and suggestions about preparing your home for sale and reviewing marketing plans and strategies with you to get your home sold.

Refer you to Legal Professionals who will handle all of the legal components of selling your home.

Home is where YOUR heart is.  Put your home in OUR hands.  Call today!