Owning

Nov. 14, 2017

Vancouver Empty Home Tax Declarations Being Mailed to Owners

Vancouver Empty Home Tax DeclarationsThis week, the City of Vancouver will begin a phased approach to mailing out the Empty Home Tax Declarations to applicable Vancouver home owners. This form must be filled out and submitted to the city by February 2, 2018 and according to the city "will have their properties deemed vacant ...

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Posted in Investing, News, Owning
Oct. 15, 2017

Should You Buy the Latest Home Automation Gadgets?

You’re at work when the thought hits you, “Did I lock the door when I left this morning?” You check your smartphone, see that you didn’t, and click the “LOCK” button. Now your house is secure.

That’s home automation for you! 

But, is home automation a good idea ...

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Posted in Owning
Oct. 12, 2017

Vancouver Empty Home Tax FAQ

Bell Alliance has a great article answering the most frequently questions regarding the Vancouver Empty Home Tax which came into effect January 2017. Read their article...

Posted in News, Owning
July 14, 2017

Painting Techniques that Bring a Hallway to Life

Some people don’t give hallways much thought when painting and decorating. Instead, they focus on rooms.

The fact is, a great looking hallway can have the same, if not more, impact than the most eye-catching family room or bedroom, especially when you need to go through the hallway to get ...

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Posted in Owning, Renovating
Feb. 19, 2017

Zillow's Top Design Tips for 2017

Posted in Owning, Renovating
Feb. 5, 2017

How to Cut Your Electricity Bill in Half

You don’t have to freeze in the winter or start reading by candlelight to reduce your electricity bill. There are many simple ways to use less power with little, if any, impact on your lifestyle.

A good place to start is with your electronics. 

According to the David Suzuki ...

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Posted in Owning
Jan. 9, 2017

2017 Property Taxes Increase up to 43%

Property taxes in the Lower Mainland have increased by as much as 43% for 2017. According to Landcor Data Corporation, condos have increased between 12-33%, attached between 27-36%, and detached homes between 31-43%.

BC Assessments are based on property sales during last summer, so they aren’t always up to date ...

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Posted in News, Owning
Dec. 12, 2016

What Does a Property Surveyor Do?

Property Surveyors, sometimes referred to as land Surveyors, play a vital role in the real estate world. They are the professionals who determine or confirm the exact boundaries of a property.

Will you need to deal with a Property Surveyor when selling your home? 

You might. 

Sometimes the ...

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Posted in Owning
Nov. 10, 2016

Should You Worry About Moisture on Windows?

You’re standing by your window admiring the view. Then you notice it. Moisture has built-up around the edges of the glass. Should you worry? 

It all depends on the reason for the build up.

Assuming you have traditional double-pane glass in your windows, there are a few things to ...

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Posted in Owning
Nov. 8, 2016

Knock, Knock. How to Avoid Door-to-Door Scams

It’s early in the evening and there’s a knock on the door. You answer and are greeted by an official-looking man who claims he needs to see your utility bill to confirm you’re getting your energy rebate. 

Do you let him in? 

While he may be legitimate, he ...

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Posted in Owning