We are in the thick of renovation season, a time when there is often more work than contractors and fly-by-night operators seize the opportunity to make some quick cash. Before you sign a home renovation contract, it pays to know your reno rights. Here are some guidelines from the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services to…

The real estate  market is in full gear but it’s also a time when some homeowners become potential victims of mortgage fraud. How do you know the seller of your dream home is the rightful owner? How can you protect yourself against becoming a victim of unscrupulous lenders? Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers…

Here’s Mark Weisleder’s advice when it comes to small claims court: Buyers will typically sue sellers in Small Claims Court over problems that arise after closing when the amount in dispute is $25,000 or less. The main reason is that you can make the claim without a lawyer and the costs are relatively cheap. However,…

By Lorne Shuman: Whether you buy or sell property, there will be an adjustment for property taxes between the buyer and seller. This column will explain how payment of property taxes is addressed by your lawyer in different real estate transactions. First, the most common scenario – when you purchase or sell a resale property.…

There are some home improvements which are simply worth a larger investment to achieve outstanding results in value, beauty and liveability. Indoors, kitchens and baths rate that extra attention. Outdoors, decks are the pinnacle of great home improvements. Kitchen or bath improvements must mesh with the quality and decor of the rest of a home’s…

An infestation of rodents is the stuff of a homeowner’s nightmare. If you hear scampering sounds in ceilings, discover droppings or find gnawed food or food packaging in the kitchen, you might have rodents. Other signs of a rodent infestation include: rodent droppings around food sources, in drawers or cupboards, and/or under the sink; nesting…

How do you know you’ve chosen the right colours to accent your home’s exterior? What colours on windows, doors, trim or shutters can highlight architectural details? Try these tips to help choose an exterior colour scheme for your home. Accent Your Home’s Style Consider your home’s design. Blend existing features, like the roof, stone or…

Appliance manufacturers are providing homeowners with modern finishes to their kitchen appliances, and some of the offerings have even been touted as the “new stainless steel.” Appliance makers are in the search for a potential successor to stainless steel, which some designers say will eventually wear out its welcome. But so far, no introductions have…