A pool can make your backyard more inviting and give family members a place to relax, socialize and get some exercise. A pool can also be expensive, even after the installation process is complete, since it can increase the amount you’ll have to pay in property taxes. A Pool Can Increase Your Home’s Value Property taxes are based on a home’s assessed value, which is based on its size, condition, amenities and location. If you add an in-ground pool to your property, it will... [read more]

You are only required to have a fence on your property if you have a private swimming pool. An individual is required to keep the gate of a swimming pool enclosure locked at all times except when the enclosed area is in use. A pool enclosure fence is not required for a hot tub, whirlpool or spa if it has a cover permanently attached to it that can be locked to prevent access when it is not in use. A pool enclosure fence permit is required on private property. Other types of fences on... [read more]

What Homebuyers Want: Practicality and Energy Savings What’s the key to today’s homebuyer’s heart? Well, move over hardwood floors, granite countertops, mudrooms, and media rooms, and kiss living rooms and formal dining rooms goodbye. Welcome energy efficiency and a good layout. According to a recent study, more than 40 per cent of Canadians look for energy efficiency over a home with updated finishes such as stone countertops and stainless appliances. Slightly more than... [read more]

Buyers want to know they're purchasing a property not only that they love, but that's safe and well-maintained. A home inspection is designed to reveal any potential problems with the property. So sellers should try to make the buyer's inspection as smooth as possible to avoid red flags that might scrap the purchase. Clean, then tackle tasks you might overlook in your day-to-day life. Change the furnace filter. Replace light bulbs. If you haven't yet, replace smoke detector... [read more]

Home staging prepares a private residence to make it appealing to the greatest number of potential buyers. The goal is to help the home sell as quickly as possible at the best possible price. With this in mind, it is often a good idea to stage your home. A professional stager will recommend what items should be removed and what décor and furnishings should be added. Staging removes distracting clutter or personal items and creates a clean, inviting atmosphere. The stager's finishing... [read more]

If you already own a rental property, or you're looking to get into the business, the idea of having to deal with tenants and managing the property might be daunting. But that's where property managers step in. A credible property manager will take over the responsibilities that rental owners might not want to handle. This could include surveying the market and area to determine a reasonable and competitive rate to charge for rent. Property managers can also help you sell a home... [read more]

Sellers logically want to put their homes on the market when they will sell quickly and for the best price. To achieve this, they must find the busiest home-selling season - for their market. In most areas, this season is spring. For many regions, this time of year offers warmer weather and more daylight for shopping. It's also prime time for families to buy if their goal is to get settled in before the next school year begins. Launching in spring, the busy season typically peaks in June,... [read more]

Everyone knows the importance of making a good first impression. It's no different when it comes to your home’s curb appeal, which refers to your property’s overall appearance from the street. To make your home's "frosting" as appealing as possible, you’ll definitely want to think about planting stunning blooms and making sure your landscaping is well manicured and maintained. Implementing a long-term landscaping plan can help increase your property value... [read more]