March 17, 2015 Though stressful, bidding wars are a seller’s dream. After all, when multiple buyers try to outbid each other for a property, it likely means more cash in the seller’s jeans. It’s a dream that has become reality for some homeowners as competition for available homes, particularly in certain neighbourhoods in the GTA and in other parts of the province where supply is limited, has resulted in some properties selling for $100,000 or more over the asking... [read more]

As parents, we want to offer our kids every advantage for a happy, healthy and successful life. Many think this means ensuring our children do well in math and science and doing better in school overall. But did you know that learning a second language like English or French also offers many unique rewards? Here are some reasons to raise your kids bilingual.  A better, bigger brain. Research shows learning a second language actually changes the size and structure of our brains.... [read more]

Morning, noon or night, this chocolate peanut butter cup smoothie does an excellent job of satisfying your sweet tooth. Packed with fibre and protein, your family will drink up the classic flavour combo in this recipe from Ontario Bean Growers. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie with Black Beans Prep time: 4 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: • 1 cup sweetened almond milk (or 1% milk) • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed • 1 tbsp natural peanut... [read more]

Buying a new laundry pair can feel overwhelming — a trip to your local big box store can feel like an onslaught of features and benefits. How can you cut through the clutter to find a washer and dryer that will truly make your life easier? Take a few tips from Mike Holmes, Canada's most trusted contractor and handyman. For him, it's all about three key decisions:  1. The right format. While front-load laundry appliances were all the rage a few years ago, top load... [read more]

We all want the best quality of life during our retirement years. Whether you're planning for your own future or for your parents', making wise choices is essential for enjoying this life stage.  As older adults stay active and healthier longer, a popular option for a place to live is a retirement home. There are many important factors to consider when researching a home. Here are some tips that make the process easier, recommended by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority.... [read more]

Updating your home can make the space more livable and beautiful. But giving your home a refresh can also boost your property value. Here are some ideas to consider for your next improvement project, big or small.  Layer the lighting. The secret to making a room look like it came straight out of a magazine is layered lighting. Set the tone with ambient lighting at every height. Try experimenting with wall-mounted sconces, pendants, chandeliers or foot lamps for a brighter space and... [read more]

(NC) Most parents have sleepless nights, hectic mornings and laundry that doesn't get folded. Cutting corners where you can means spending more time with family. But, serving quick, nutritious, home-cooked meals will improve your family's health and your budget.  Here, Tori Wesszer, foodie and registered dietitian, shares her tips and meal ideas to make busy mornings less stressful. Pull out the crockpot before bed to make oatmeal for the morning. You can jazz it up with your... [read more]

(NC) As housing prices climb in many markets across the country, real estate fraud can become a much more enticing prospect for scammers. While it's one of the lesser known kinds of fraud in Canada, its impact can be devastating.  There are two types of real estate fraud that may result in financial losses — title fraud and foreclosure fraud. Title fraud happens when a fraudster steals the title to a home — usually after stealing the owner's identity — then... [read more]

(NC) Looking for your next reno project? Consider transforming your bathroom — the most renovated room in 2017 — with a few strategic upgrades so you can enjoy a relaxing oasis and boost your property's resale value. Whether you're looking to refresh your ensuite or a powder room, use these tricks to make the most of every square foot.  Savvy storage solutions. Maximize limited space by incorporating streamlined and efficient organizing and storage options.... [read more]

When temperatures dip, our body adjusts by storing fat to keep warm and switching our brain into hibernation mode. But this can hamper our healthy goals and lower our energy. Fortunately, you can use these three tips to improve your winter metabolism and keep your energy levels going through the cold Canadian weather.   Get outside or to the gym. The cold isn't an excuse to lie in bed all day. Being active through the winter is the easiest way to stay in shape and ensure... [read more]

A home equity line of credit can improve your monthly cash flow by consolidating higher-interest debt or it can help increase your home's value by financing renovations. But this line of credit requires discipline to avoid overborrowing against your home equity. Consider these strategies to protect your long-term financial security. 1. Establish a repayment plan. One option is to set aside a portion of your home equity line of credit in a sub-account with a fixed-term repayment... [read more]

  Canada's residential real estate market posted strong home price appreciation in the second quarter of 2017, with most regions displaying healthy housing trends.  According to Royal LePage's House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast, the price of a home in Canada rose 13.7 per cent year-over-year to $609,104 in the second quarter. Over the same period, the price of a two-storey home and bungalow climbed 14.6 and 13.4 per cent, respectively to $725,336 and... [read more]

While customizing a home is a great way to make it your own, certain renovation projects may actually work against you, decreasing your home's resale value when it comes time to put it on the market. “Though personal touches and an attention to detail may at times make all the difference in the world, certain home improvement projects should be avoided in order to maximize your home's resale potential,” explains Norm Jensen from Royal LePage Network Realty Corp.... [read more]

I've sold and rented more than my fair share of real estate over my career. To get the most from my investments, I've come to know what works and what doesn't. While a lot of variables can influence a property's potential, one of the biggest is wow factor. How your home or rental suite shows to perspective buyers or renters is hugely important, because you really want them to make an emotional connection with your property.  Here's a few surefire ways to make sure... [read more]