In this Redfin.com post, home inspector Dylan Chalk underscores the importance of a home inspection by identifying how they can prevent a potential sale.  The most common reason is the home is not what it appears to be, especially in the case of a “flipped home”, one purchased and updated with the intention of making … The 3 Most Common Reasons a Home Inspection Kills a Deal Read More » ...

  This detailed Home Inspection Network post provides useful data to anyone who is considering a home renovation. Author Bev Siciliano begins by explaining what many do not realize – we might not fully recoup our investment when the home is sold.  For that reason alone, home renovations should be analyzed individually to ensure we … Reno Investments Providing the Highest Returns Read More » ...

  This article from Bob Vila gives eight handy tips to consider when using your basement for storage.   The suggestions include taking advantage of vertical space by building up and not out, using open shelves for frequently-used items and built-in cabinets to conceal toys or cleaning supplies, storing off-season gear in sealed bins to protect … The Do’s and Dont’s of Basement Storage Read More » ...

  If you’ve reached the time of life where you are contemplating downsizing your home, the first question to ask, according to this Realto.com post, is what kind of lifestyle do you want after downsizing? By defining how you want to live, you can narrow your search and focus on housing that will meet those … Is It Time to Downsize? Ask Yourself These 4 Questions First Read More » ...

  Inexperience can cause first time home buyers to be confused by the multitude of available options. This post by Caroline James is an excellent introduction to the advantages and disadvantages of five popular property choices: a large detached house on a suburban block, a small home on a sub-divided lot, a townhouse, an apartment … What’s the best property type for your first home? Read More » ...

  Usually we hear “buyer beware”, but real estate author Michael Corbett advises sellers to beware and gives 8 reasons why in this trulia.com post.  Always work with professional help, including a real estate agent.  Their expertise, experience, neighbourhood knowledge and resources will help you plot a course through the selling process.   Overpricing is … 8 Mistakes That Could Screw Up Your Home Sale Read More » ...

  If you are renovating, you should consider the green strategies suggested in this realestate.com post by Danielle King.  For example, add insulation to the roof and external walls and you could save 25% on energy costs.  Replace inefficient windows or add window film since up to 40% of your heating can be lost through … 5 tips for eco-friendly renovations Read More » ...

The Canadian real estate market continues to boom, according to this Financial Post offering.  With a year-over-year increase of 8.2%, Canada ranked 4th of the 23 countries studied in Scotiabank’s report Global Real Estate Trends, behind Ireland (13.3%), Sweden (10.5%) and Australia (8.3%).  However, the report warns the trend could change if economic uncertainty and … Canadian Home Prices Are Growing At One Of The Fastest Paces In The World Read More » ...

  If you want to sell your property quickly, at near the asking price, it is important to know why people are buying.  In this post, Realtor.com chief economist, Jonathan Smoke, suggests we pay attention to the five main triggers for home buyers: they have grown tired of their home and want a change, interest … Here’s What Pushes People to Buy Homes in 2015 Read More » ...

  According to this realtor.com post, the number of real estate appraisers is dropping to the point where parties on both sides of real estate transactions could suffer. Since most residential mortgages need an appraisal before a sale closes, a shortage of appraisers will affect buyers, who rely on accurate valuations to structure their offer, … The Number of Real Estate Appraisers Is Falling. Here’s Why You Should Care Read More » ...

  Most sellers realize that preparing the interior of their homes for viewing is essential.  In this article, Bob Villa explains it is just as important to stage the exterior of your house as it is to prepare the inside rooms when you are selling.  For example, a clean, well-maintained yard will signal that you … Boost Your Curb Appeal with 4 Doable DIY Projects Read More » ...

  This homeownership.ca article by real estate lawyer Mark Weisleder gives the essentials for the novice buyer.  Start by calculating what you can afford (general rule is 30% of gross income).  Then, figure out what is important to you and search for properties with those features.  Ask the seller about flooding, leaks, mould, insurance claims … 5 must-do’s for first-time home buyers Read More » ...

  If you are planning to remodel your bathroom this Consumer Reports article give sound advice on how to do it with safety in mind.  Install pressure-balancing and anti-scald valves to provide a steady flow of water that remains at a safe temperature.  Add a sturdy, properly secured grab bar that will support 250 pounds. … 5 Steps to a Safer Bathroom Read More » ...