The growing popularity of more compact living quarters, due in part to both rising housing costs and densification, has many people searching for interior design hacks for small living spaces. When designing a small space, it’s important to include details that align with your habits and routines.

Effective November 21, 2024, borrowers renewing their residential uninsured mortgage can switch lenders without being subject to The Mortgage Stress Test Rule introduced back in 2018 – so long as it’s what OSFI refers to as a “straight switch” (Amount and Amortization being the same).

Curb appeal encompasses the attractiveness, charm, and overall visual impact of a property’s exterior. It can include landscaping, architectural features, cleanliness, maintenance, and exterior design elements, all of which contribute to the initial impression potential buyers or visitors have of the home.

More than half of Canadian mortgages will renew before the end of 2026, and with the Bank of Canada lowering its key interest rate from 5.0% to 4.75% on June 5th, many homeowners are now wondering which mortgage type they should opt for upon renewal — a fixed or variable rate. Understanding the options available and anticipating changes is essential to successfully navigating today’s evolving mortgage landscape.

In this economic climate, a lower monthly mortgage payment can make a huge difference. Extending the amortization period when your mortgage is being renewed can help balance payments.

I know….It’s a big step to make the decision to downsize from a home you have perhaps lived in for a long time. We have been there, done that ourselves! It’s definitely a step that can be daunting but can also be looked forward to with optimism…and much easier if you have help.

Beware! Home Equipment Rentals Can Lead to Unexpected Property Liens. In March, 2018, the Ontario government banned door-to-door sales of certain equipment, but it did not prohibit the registration on property titles of liens known as notices of security interest. As a result, when the registered notices are discovered, usually at the time of sale of the property, the finance companies often squeeze homeowners for high buyout payments.

Buying a fixer-upper home is a popular choice for those seeking customization and cost savings. However, it comes with challenges. Let's explore the key pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

When was the last time you reviewed your Coverage, as well as any special Riders? Home insurance Policies usually renew annually – have you taken the time to review the Renewal – to balance the coverage against updated needs?

If you’re a homeowner who’s thinking about moving, then you’ve probably pondered the age-old question — should I sell my home before I buy a new one, or buy my next property first?

Whichever option you choose, it’s an intensely personal decision that should take into account individual finances, risk tolerance and current market conditions. Some homeowners who have a strict timeline or budget may take comfort in selling their current residence first, while others who have more flexibility will opt to buy their next home before selling.

Is your lawn filled with more weeds and bare patches than grass? Does nothing you do help to grow a better lawn? It might be time to revive it or give your lawn a fresh new start.

When it comes to putting money away to buy their first home, the federal government’s ‘tax-free in, tax-free out’ First Home Savings Account aims to give Canadians a helping hand.

Ventless appliances have real flames. They can provide the ambiance of a traditional fireplace, and they can release unburned combustion by-products directly into the living space because there is no chimney to the outside. It’s always a good idea to crack open a window when a ventless fireplace is in use.

Whether you’re contemplating selling your home, or just looking to give your space a refreshing facelift, the beginning of a new year is a great time to start thinking about making some interior upgrades. According to designers and home experts, 2023 is the year to bring the outdoors in and to make a statement with bold colours, among other trends. Here are five top interior design trends for 2023 to consider this year.

If you are thinking of downsizing to a condominium or are preparing to step into the real estate market for your first purchase, condominium living might be your answer. However it is important to know what to expect.

Candles or a crackling fire used to set the mood of a home. Fast forward to incandescent lights that emitted "warm" light, and with an added dimmer switch, we could set the room's atmosphere. Along came CFL bulbs which did save energy but gave-off somewhat harsh lighting. Now we have LEDs which enable us to save energy and still choose the mood.

Home staging can help sell houses without question. When my clients are trying to decide whether a particular house is the right one for them, I ask them whether they can see themselves waking up on Saturday morning in this home. Does it feel good? The Buyers need to be able to envision their new life in the home.

A Real Estate Agent / Realtor will not only take the time to help you find the right property, but also assist you through the buying and closing process. By getting to know you they can make suggestions of similar properties in similar neighbourhoods that may be off your radar. They have their fingers on the pulse of communities across the region they cover. They will advise you through the offer process and once a bid is won, they can recommend trusted professionals to help you complete the transition. 

If you’re working on a home improvement project – whether for you to enjoy, or in preparation to put your property on the market – you may be interested to know which renovations will give you the most bang for your buck.

Your home is your sanctuary; a safe and calm-inducing place you can retreat to at the end of the day. Did you know that our physical environment can affect our mental state? A cluttered countertop can make us feel uneasy and a collection of mismatched shoes at the entrance can change our mood when we walk in the door.