You would have to visit your local pharmacy or science lab to rival the number of potentially dangerous chemicals in the average home. You likely store everything from fertilizers and acidic cleaners, to gasoline and corrosive drain openers. Obviously, it makes sense to ensure that everyone in your home uses and stores these items safely. For example, laundry detergent packs - which have become popular...
2019
When you purchase a home, you hope it will continually go up in value - just like a good investment. However, there’s something else that you also want to see an increase in value: the neighbourhood. In fact, the neighbourhood plays a key role in what the home will be worth in the years to come. If the neighbourhood goes down in terms of desirability, so will the market value of the home. So, when...
“Staging” your home is all about making the space in your home as appealing as possible to buyers. You may already know the basics, such as eliminating clutter, and removing personal photographs. Here are some other tips that are less well known yet very effective: A chandelier. Surprisingly, installing a chandelier is one of the simplest ways to make a foyer, dining room or living room look...
MARK YOUR CALENDERS! Vancouver Fall Home Show! Real advice from trusted experts. October 24-27, 2019 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The show for every home. From renovation overhaul to brand-new build, DIY do-over to one-day décor dreams. The Vancouver Fall Home Show is where big ideas, trusted advice, and fresh inspiration unite, complete with trusted brands and local companies....
A growing number of homeowners are uncomfortable using traditional pesticides for a variety of reasons, including health and environmental concerns. If you’re among them, here are some natural ways to deal with insects in your home: Use a mixture of unsweetened lemon juice and water to deter spiders. Spray the solution near doorways and window sills where these arachnoids can enter. Combine an equal...
It’s amazing how much damage water can cause. Just two gallons of water from a burst pipe or overflowing toilet can wreak havoc throughout your home and necessitate thousands of dollars in repairs. Ouch! What should you do at the first sign of water leakage? First, stop the source. Turn off the nearest water valve. If you can’t find it, turn off the main water valve to your home. Next, do everything...
It’s not uncommon for couples with growing families to trade in their compact cars for something roomier, like a mini-van. The same thing happens with homes. Sometimes families simply outgrow them. How can you tell if that’s happening with your property? Here are some sure-fire signs: You need more space. This is the most common reason people upgrade to a new home. They need more room. For any number...
Whether you’re considering buying a particular home, selling your current property - or doing both - a home inspection can help. This inspection is conducted by a qualified professional who takes a close look at every aspect of a home - structure, wiring, plumbing, and more - and identifies issues you may not have noticed yourself. For example, a home inspector can determine that a furnace will need to...