Your Home

By Lorne Shuman: The closing of a sale or purchase is the culmination of all of the hard work, time, preparation and excitement of buying or selling a property. To ensure that it goes smoothly, the following steps should be considered. For Purchasers: 1)     Choose an experienced lawyer who specializes in real estate. 2)     Have your financing…

The front porch is making a comeback in home designs. Builders recently said the front porch is one of the most popular amenities in 2014, according to the National Association of Home Builders. The rebirth of the front porch in the past decade may be in partial nod to younger generations who have shown recent preferences…

While your dream bath may be a sprawling space, the reality is that the typical bathroom is 100 square feet or less.  But, a large bathroom footprint isn’t always the answer to a better bath. Focusing on quality products can create a luxurious look, even in a small space. Free-up space You may not be…

Statistics indicate that almost 70 percent of all burglaries involve forced entry through a window or door. Many homeowners unwittingly lure thieves by placing valuable items, such as computers in home offices, within easy reach of a window. Patio doors also tempt burglars – with the toss of a brick, they can be inside in…

Occasionally, one can see “For Sale By Owner” signs, and some owners think that selling their own home will not only save them money, but believe they have an advantage over the sellers that have their home listed on the MLS by a Realtor©. However, before you decide to take on this very important and…

While we are still hunkered in with snow all around, spring seems distant on the horizon. But it is just around the corner. In fact, daylight savings time starts this month; on March 9 it’s time to set the clock an hour ahead. The start of daylight savings time is also a good time to…

What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a mineral fibre that can be positively identified only with a special type of microscope. There are several types of asbestos fibres. In the past, asbestos was added to a variety of products to strengthen them and to provide heat insulation and fire resistance. Potential Health Concerns Breathing in asbestos…

Fraud and investment scams abound at all levels of the real estate market – whether it be a contractor who charges hundreds of dollars for work not done to an “investment agent” who embezzles hundreds of millions – protecting yourself can require a measure of vigilance and legwork, but it can also come down to…

Looking for ways to switch up your style this year? From the right patterns and colours to impressive accents, the latest home design trends will keep your space looking fresh and fabulous in 2014. “Now more than ever, homeowners are willing to experiment with design,” says Taniya Nayak, interior designer and DIY television personality. “The…

Skates, skis, hockey equipment, bulky winter coats, boots … winter gear poses a challenge to even the most organized of homes. It’s a good time to look outside the closet for some creative solutions to your storage needs. With some creative thinking, you can find more storage space in even the smallest of homes. Here…