Owning

July 1, 2016

Concerned about Condensation on Windows?

If you see a haze of condensation on your window, should you be concerned? Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on a number of factors.

First of all, an occasional build-up of condensation is normal and often the result of fluctuating humidity in the home. Usually, it’s nothing to worry about. …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning
July 1, 2016

When Renting a Spare Room can be Problematic

Websites such as Airbnb and Vacation Rentals By Owner (VRBO) help property owners “share” their extra space by renting homes, apartments, and spare rooms.


Known as part of the “sharing economy,” property owners and tenants, called “hosts,” give strangers keys, front door codes, and gate openers. This can bring parking …

View More
Posted in Owning
July 1, 2016

3 Types of Lighting for Your Home

You probably don't think buying a lighting fixture for a room is all that complicated. It isn't. However, it does require you to consider which types of lighting you may need. According to the Lighting Association, there are three types:

1. General lighting. By far the most common, this is …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning
July 1, 2016

Easy-to-Miss Home Security Tips for Your Vacation

If you’re relaxing on a Caribbean beach, skiing in Whistler, or enjoying a bus tour through historic Paris, the last thing you want to worry about is your home. Most people know the basics of keeping a home secure while away. Here are some additional tips that are easy to …

View More
Posted in Owning
July 1, 2016

Home Insurance Tips

We always recommend using an experienced home insurance specialist to ensure you have proper home coverage. Below are some items to discuss.

Discounts

Ask what discounts may apply. Some companies provide discounts for living in a concrete building, in-suite home sprinklers, smoke detectors, an alarm system, or if …

View More
Posted in Owning
July 1, 2016

7 Ways to "Go Green"

We like to do what we can to be more environmentally friendly. So we thought you'd enjoy these ideas for “going green” around your home this year.

    Install a programmable thermostat – you can set it lower at night and during the day when you’re away (each degree below 20C …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning
July 1, 2016

Don't Take Stair Safety for Granted

The first known use of stairs was in ancient Egypt during the building of the pyramids. Chances are, some workers back then tripped and fell on them. Some 3,000 years later, injuries on stairs are still a big problem.

According to the Centre for Occupational Health & Safety, the insurance …

View More
Posted in Owning
July 1, 2016

Common Causes of Dampness in a Home

The common cause of damp basements is improper handling of exterior surface water (rain water). Surface water that saturates the soil immediately next to the home can make its way into the basement (make sure your drain tiles are doing their job).

Condensation is a common problem in basements. Condensation …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning
July 1, 2016

Insects - Avoiding Unwelcome Guests in Your Home

There are unwelcome guests that most homeowners dread. They come into your house, eat, sleep, make a mess, and never leave willingly. Each one has at least six legs and sometimes flies.

They are, of course, insects. They’ve been freeloading in homes since homes were invented. Here are some practical …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning
July 1, 2016

Avoiding Moisture Problems in the Home

There are many hidden sources of moisture in your home that can lead to serious problems, such as mould. To keep moisture levels in check, consider these tips:

• Bathrooms are an obvious source of moisture build-up. Contractor and TV personality Mike Holmes recommends keeping the fan going for at …

View More
Posted in Maintenance, Owning