Blog


Natural Cleaning Solutions

Are you thinking you need to do more to help the environment? Have you thought about your cleaning supplies and the products your bring into your home? Then check out this blog from Royal LePage Canada with some great information and DIY ideas.

As always, if you have any questions about this blog or real estate in general, please call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help.


2024 Interior Design Trends

What are the trends for 2024? Do you like the bold colours? Will you be making any changes to your home this year? Let us know what you think. Read the blog form Royal LePage Canada to get all the ideas.

If you have any questions about this article or anything related to real estate, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help.


Canadians are worried about their mortgage renewal

Are you worried about your mortgage coming up for renewal and what it might do to your financial stability? You're not alone! 74% of Canadians with a residential mortgage set to renew within the next 18 months say they are concerned about this. For more information and insight, take a look at this article and national data chart from Royal LePage Canada. 

If you have any questions about the article or anything related to real estate, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


How to winterize your lawn and garden

It's that time of year and we should be thinking about preparing our lawn and gardens for winter. What you do now will help prepare it for spring. Royal Lepage Canada has prepared a great article with some winterization tips to follow. Hope this helps to make the process a little easier!

As always, if you have any questions about this article or anything related to real estate, we'd be happy to help. Call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000.


Royal LePage trims year-end price forecast after sluggish third quarter

Elevated interest rates continue to impact activity in the real estate markets across the country. For more information about the market and to see Royal LePage’s third quarter release for national and regional insights, refer to Royal LePage's new blog.

If you have any questions about the article or anything related to real estate, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Four home decor trends for fall that are more than just pumpkins

Looking for some ways to make your home feel more "homey" for fall? Check out these great ideas from the Royal LePage blog. They're sure to get you the mood!
If you have any questions about this article or anything related to real estate, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott today at 519-621-2000. We'd love to help!


Sold your home? Don’t forget these 4 important steps before you leave

Have you recently sold your home and wondered what you need to do before the move? Take a lot at this Blog from Royal LePage with 4 important steps before you leave. 
If you have any questions about this article or anything related to real estate, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott today at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Spring Cleaning

Have you started your spring cleaning yet? Have you thought about including your appliances? Here’s a great maintenance checklist to help ensure your large home appliances are in top shape for spring. 

Call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000 if you have any questions about this article or real estate in general. We're here to help!


Buyers spring back: Sidelined Canadians plan return to market

Are you thinking about purchasing a home and have been wondering if now is the right time to get into the market? According to a recent Royal LePage survey, more than a quarter of Canadians who put their home purchase plans on hold over the last year say they will resume their search this spring. Check out this interesting blog post and video from Phil Soper, CEO Royal LePage with more information.

As Always, if you have any questions about this post or real estate in general, call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


5 interior design trends to watch in 2023

Looking to give your home a facelift? According to designers and home experts, 2023 is the year to bring the outdoors in and to make a statement with bold colours, among other trends. Checkout this blog from Royal LePage Canada with some great ideas to consider. 
As always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Jessica, Lisa or Scott. We're always here to help!


How home sellers can be successful in a cooling market

There's definitely been a shift in the market and homes are taking longer to sell, That's why sellers need to make their home stand out above the rest. Take a look at this article from a fellow Royal LePage agent with some great suggestions for sellers to consider in order to be successful in today’s cooling housing market,
As always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Jessica, Lisa or Scott. We're always here to help!
 


Waterloo Region Association of Realtors October Stats 2022

Fewer homes sold in Waterloo Region last month. Please see the attached article with more information from our real estate board. As always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Scott, Lisa or Jessica. We're always here to help!


More than just storage: Basement ideas for better living

Are you using your basement to its full potential? A lot of people just use it for storage and there are so many ways you can optimize this space for a better living experience! Check out this blog from Royal LePage Canada with some great ideas on how you can take advantage of this extra space!
Call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000 if you have any questions about this article or real estate in general. We're here to help!


How to Maximize Your Bathroom Storage

Looking for ways to maximize your bathroom storage? Checkout this blog from Royal LePage Canada with some helpful tips.
As always, if you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Top paint colours of 2022

Spring is in the air! That means it time to open the windows and freshen up the house. Check out this great blog from Royal LePage Canada with some spring cleaning suggestions. 
Let us know if you have any questions, we're always here to help!
If you're thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call a 519-621-2000.


Canada's Home Office Rebate

Did you know all Canadians who worked more than 50% of the time from home for a period of at least four consecutive weeks in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic can claim $2 for each day, up to a maximum of $500 as an income tax deduction? Check out this blog from Royal LePage Canada with more information on how you can claim this deduction.
As always, we're here to help! If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000.

 


Top paint colours of 2022

Does spring put you into the cleaning mood? What better way to freshen up your home than with a fresh coat of paint. Check out this blog from Royal LePage Canada about the top paint colours of 2022. What do you think of Very Peri? Could you see adding this colour to your home décor? A pop of colour definitely lifts the spirits!
If you have any questions about preparing your home for sale or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Top 10 tips for selling your home in the winter

Thinking of selling your home this winter? Well check out these tips from Royal LePage before you get started!.
Winter is a great time to sell. There are usually fewer homes for sale so less competition. If you have any questions or think you might like to list this winter, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We'd love to help!


40+ Minimalist Holiday Decorating Ideas That Will Spark Joy

Are you looking for ways to decorate for the holidays but just don't want all the fuss and clutter? Then check out these great ideas from House & Home. You're sure to find something to suite your taste!
Hope you like some of these ideas and can incorporate them into your decorating this holiday season. 
And remember, if you are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


How to get the most out of your garage

Is your garage a catch-all for everything but your car? Well fall is the perfect time to clean and organize your garage so you can have your car inside for the winter. Check-out this great article from Royal LePage Canada with tips on how to get your garage in order.
As always, if you have any questions about this article or real estate in general, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call today at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!.


Tips to make a small room look bigger

Who doesn't have a small room or space in their home that they would like to appear larger? Have you always wondered if there is some trick or easy way to accomplish this? Well check out the blog from Royal LePage Canada with some great ideas. Most of them are pretty easy and won't break the bank!
As always, if you have any questions about this article or anything related to real estate, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Outdoor fireplaces: What you need to know to get started!

We're all spending more time at home and with the nice weather upon us, we want to be outside as much as possible. Have you thought about adding at outdoor fireplace to your backyard? It definitely creates a more inviting and warmer atmosphere! Check out this terrific article from Royallepage.ca with some great ideas and safety tips to keep in mind.

If you have any questions about this article or anything real estate, don't hesitate to contact Jessica, Lisa or Scott. We're always here to help!
 


62% of Canadian first-time homebuyers worried about their down payment

Check out this great post from Royal LePage Canada about first-time buyers.

If you are looking to buy your first home but worry that your down payment isn’t enough, you aren’t alone. In a recent survey by Royal LePage and Sagen, 62 per cent of first-time homebuyers who purchased over the past two years said they were worried their down payment wouldn’t be enough to get the home they wanted, reflecting a five point increase since the survey was issued in 2019. This statistic soared in Canada’s two most expensive cities. Seventy-five per cent of first-time homebuyers in Toronto and 69 per cent in Vancouver said that they worried their down payment would not be enough. In Montreal, 63% of survey respondents reported feeling worried about the size of their down payment before purchasing their first home.

For most Canadians, buying a home is the largest transaction that they will make in their lifetime. Working with a real estate professional that understands the market can help take some of the stress away by showing you comparable neighbourhoods that are less competitive, and going through your list of must-haves and where you would be willing to compromise. Real estate professionals can let you know about current successful buying strategies and what you can negotiate, even in a hot market. Click here to read the full article.

If you have questions about this article or anything about real estate, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!

 


Maximize Summer Enjoyment With a Screened Patio

The first summer evening on the patio is often accompanied by the arrival of mosquitos. Rather than retreating indoors, consider your options to create a bug-free area with a screened-in patio or porch.

A big part of the appeal of owning a home becomes ultra-apparent during the summer months when we can spend time outdoors. You can extend your summer enjoyment with screens that are fitted to patio and porch openings. When done right, these options appeal greatly to future buyers.

Set a budget, then exploring a variety of options to fit your pocketbook and tastes. With a wide range of products on the market – from motorized retractable screens to do-it-yourself kits from your local building store – there’s something to fit every budget. Start with a trip to the library and research ideas through books and publications on decks, porches and patios.

As far as dos and don’ts, obtain more than one quote if you are looking to engage a professional service to plan and install your screens.  If you plan to do the project yourself, make sure your basic structure is in good shape. If not, be sure to budget for additional material costs and make repairs before you begin. Measure accurately and ask to see assembly instructions in the kit you buy.

As always, if you are thinking about buying or selling in the Cambridge area or have any questions about this article, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call. We're always here to help!


Create a gorgeous spring garden to enjoy year-round

There’s no better way to welcome the warm weather than by creating an outdoor oasis that will leave you itching to spend more time in your garden, while drastically increasing your home’s outdoor aesthetic. With these tips, you’ll have a garden your neighbours can’t help feeling envious of.

Raise the bar. Raised flower beds and boxes are on trend this year. Not only are above-ground gardens practical for growing vegetables and herbs, the eye-catching designs add a touch of personality to your garden. Plus, they’re great for growing flowers in smaller spaces.

Take a walk on the wild side. Gone are the days of perfectly sculpted flower beds with colour-coordinated annuals. These days, wild gardens with lots of texture and colour are in style. Embrace a more natural look by planting options like ornamental cabbage, climbing vines, wild flowers, and moss.

Go green. Late spring is the perfect time to put new trees in the ground. Nurseries are likely to be well-stocked with fresh selections, and the ground will have thawed enough to dig deep. Plus, having young trees on your property will be very attractive to future buyers.

If you are looking to sell your home, or to concentrate efforts on improvements that will enhance your investment, we’d be happy to share additional resources with you. Give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call today at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Easter Cupcake Decorating Ideas

Can you believe that Easter is only a couple weeks away? Looking for a great idea to spend time with the kids and get into the Easter spirit? Well then check out these great cupcake decorating ideas from HGTV. The kids....and mom and dad!... will love making and eating these!

As always, if you have any real estate questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Royal LePage 2021 Forecast

2020 was a crazy year for real estate and it doesn't look like things are going to slow down any time soon!

Housing demand exceeded expectations in the second half of 2020. The supply of homes available for sale failed to keep pace, driving home prices higher and pushing unmet buyer demand into the new year.
 

Read the full Royal LePage 2021 Forecast here rlp.ca/2021-forecast 

If you have any questions about this or real estate in general, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!

 


Design Tips for Boosting Your Mood

Science has proven that shorter, darker, colder days can impact our moods for the worse, resulting in Seasonal Affective Disorder (“SAD”). Check out this article from HGTV with some great ideas on ways to help you beat the winter blues.

As always, if you have any questions about real estate or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We’re always here to help!


Winter Maintenance Checklist

Here's a great checklist to help guide you in keeping your home a safe and healthy place to live this winter and year-round. As always, if you have any questions about this or your real estate needs, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott at call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!

Winter Checklist:

  • Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation systems, such as heat recovery ventilator filters, should be checked every two months
  • After consulting your hot water tank owner’s manual, drain off a dishpan full of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment and maintain efficiency
  • Clean your humidifier two or three times during the winter season
  • Vacuum bathroom fan grills to ensure proper ventilation
  • Vacuum fire and smoke detectors, as dust or spiderwebs can prevent them from functioning
  • Vacuum radiator grills on the back of refrigerators and freezers, and empty and clean drip trays
  • Check gauges on all fire extinguishers, and recharge or replace as necessary
  • Check fire escape routes, door and window locks and hardware, and lighting around the home’s exterior. Ensure your family has good security habits
  • Check the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water. Refill with water if necessary
  • Monitor your home for excessive moisture levels – for instance, since condensation on your windows can cause significant damage over time and pose serious health problems, this requires corrective action
  • Check all faucets for signs of dripping and change washers as needed. Faucets requiring frequent replacement of washers may be in need of repair or replacement
  • If you have a plumbing fixture that’s not used frequently, such as a laundry tub or spare bathroom sink, tub or shower stall, briefly run some water to keep water in the trap
  • Clean drains in the dishwasher, sinks, bathtubs and shower stalls
  • Test plumbing shut-off valves to ensure they’re working and to prevent them from seizing
  • Examine windows and doors for ice accumulation or cold air leaks. If found, make a note for repair or replacement in the spring
  • Examine attic for frost accumulation. Check roof for ice dams or icicles. If there’s excessive frost or staining of the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface, be sure to have an expert look into the issue
  • Check electrical cords, plugs and outlets for all indoor and outdoor seasonal lights to ensure fire safety. If showing signs of wear, or if plugs/cords feel warm, replace immediately


3 Advantages of the Winter Real Estate Market

You may be wondering if it’s a bad idea to list your home for sale in the winter months because the market is slower. But with the delayed spring market pushing buyer demand into the fall, this year has proven different. In 2020, low inventory in many urban markets coupled with low interest rates have demand outpacing supply. As a result, this has created a  hot winter market. It’s looking like the colder weather will bring big advantages to both buyers and sellers.

1. Most buyers aren’t just looking Winter homebuyers tend to be more motivated—especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Most people who are looking for a house in the midst of winter are on a deadline—they may have been relocated for work, or they’re taking advantage of time off during the holiday season. Chances are, if they come to see your home in the winter (and during a pandemic), they’re serious buyers.

2 More affordable services Buying or selling a house is no cheap task. No matter what side of the transaction you’re on, you have to pay REALTORS®, home inspectors, lawyers, and moving companies. The good news is, because the winter season is traditionally slower, you’re more likely to find lower fees and better deals. Moving companies, for example, can offer discounts of as much as 30 per cent off their summer prices.

3 A clearer picture It may seem like a drawback at first, but if you’re looking at a property in the off-season, the landscaping will be barren and natural light muted. However, if you can fall in love with a house at this time, it can only get better. On the flip side, sellers won’t have as much landscaping to keep up with—but you will have to make sure your driveway and walkways are shovelled and salted for ice.

Are you considering buying or selling your home this winter? We're here to help you navigate every detail safely and efficiently. Call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help.


How to Brighten up Your Home When It’s Getting Darker Outside

Moving into the colder months means less sunshine and shorter days. Check out these tips from HGTV on how to brighten your home and bring natural light into your space.
As always, we're here help. If you have any real estate questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott at call at 519-621-2000.


10 DIY Halloween Decorating Ideas

Looking for a fun way to spend some time with your family? Check out these great Halloween decorating ideas from HGTV. There's something different for every skill and level and it would be a fun way to get your house decorated for the Halloween season!

Let us know if you used any of the ideas. Send us a picture. We'd love to see your finished project!

As always, we're here to answer any real estate questions or to help you buy or sell in the Cambridge area. Give us a call at 519-621-2000. We're here to help!

 


10 DIY, All-Natural Cleaning Products and Air Fresheners You Can Make at Home

We know we're all trying to do our part to help keep our homes and areas we share with our loved ones, extra clean during these uncertain times. Cleaning supplies can get expensive and we don't know what's in half of them. Check out this great post from HGTV with some DIY ideas.

Let us know if you try any of them. How did they work?

As always, we're here to help! Give us a call at 519-621-2000 if you have any questions or if we could help you with your real estate needs.


30 Healthy After School Snacks Kids Will Love

It's that time of year again...the kids are back to school, some in the classroom and others at home. Regardless of where they're learning, they all need to eat. Check out this link from the Food Network with some healthy and delicious snacking ideas! Let us know what you think. Did you try some? Did the kids like them? 

As always, we're here to help with your real estate needs. Give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call with any questions.


8 Powerful Mood Boosters to Lift Your Mood And Energy

Covid-19 has been tough for all of us. Trying to deal with the stress and uncertainty has been difficult, and for many, has made life feel like a roller coaster. We thought the attached article might help you deal with these uncertain times and show you ways to lift your mood and energy. Let us know what you think.

As always, if you have any questions or require assistance with your real estate needs, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!
 


Reflecting on your real estate goals: Should you sell your home?

While the COVID-19 pandemic presents many challenges, it also brings an opportunity to slow down and reflect. You've likely never spent as much time at home as you have in recent months, which begs the question: is your physical space aligned with your current (and future) goals and priorities?
 
Few decisions will have a bigger impact on your life than selling your home. These three questions will help you gain clarity on the topic:
What do you value about your current property and what's missing? Make a list of pros and cons regarding the key features of your home and how it fits with your current lifestyle. If change is needed, is renovating a viable option?
 
How is your current location serving you? Consider the motivation behind moving into your neighbourhood in the first place – are those reasons still valid?
 
What does your financial picture look like? Are you looking to reduce expenses by downsizing to a smaller, less expensive home? Or has your financial picture improved since you first purchased, presenting an opportunity to capitalize on your investment?
 
Answering these questions will sharpen your perspective when it comes to deciding whether to stay or sell your home. For more information, visit rlp.ca/how-we-help or call Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000, we're always here to help!


3 Summer Projects to Increase Your Home's Resale Value

The pandemic may have put a pause on your plans to buy or sell, but it still pays to plan ahead. Investing in the right projects will not only guarantee pay back when it comes time to sell your home, but it will also provide a helpful distraction. Here are three outdoor projects you won't regret investing in:
 

  1. Build a deck or patio. A deck or patio not only adds visual interest and enjoyment, it also adds to the resale value of your home. Choose a design that fits with the style of your home (and your budget). Be sure to check your municipal building requirements, as a building permit may be required.
  2. Install a sprinkler system. Automatic lawn sprinkler systems are designed to allow proper irrigation through timing and even water distribution. Although there's an initial cost of installation, buyers appreciate the chance to save money on hydro bills and potential water damage.
  3. Landscape your property. Planting a garden or building a pond is a great way to add visual interest to an outdoor living space, resulting in a significant return on your investment. If possible, consult a trained professional before tackling a landscaping project to ensure that your project will result in a sustainable, professional-grade end product
 
If you are looking to sell your home, or to concentrate efforts on improvements that will enhance your investment, additional resources can be found at rlp.ca/homeowner-tips.

As always, if you have any questions about this or any of your real estate needs, don't hesitate to contact Jessica, Lisa or Scott at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help.


Kitchen Counter Upgrade

Are you thinking of a kitchen renovation? Check out these great kitchen counter ideas from HGTV. It's amazing how a new countertop can change the whole look of your kitchen and increase the value of your home!

If you have any questions about this or any real estate needs, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


How to Live in a Perfectly Cooled World: A Guide to Air Conditioning

The weather has definitely been heating up over the last few days, so now is a great time to think about your air conditioner. Is there anything you need to do to get it ready? What's the ideal temperature? Is your air conditioner the right size? Is it time for a new one? Check out this article from Enercare with some great tips and answers to all your questions.

Hope these suggestions help you to stay comfortable and enjoy our wonderful summer season!

If you have any questions or are thinking of buyer or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


How to Declutter Every Room in Your House

Check out this article from HGTV with some great tips on ways to declutter your home. It also has a link to a spring cleaning checklist that might come in handy. I don't know about you, but I never know where to begin. There's always so much to do this time of year and hopefully these ideas can help with the chore! Happy spring cleaning!

As always, if you're thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area or have any questions about real estate, please don't hesitate to give us a call. We're here to help!

 


Quick Tips to Master Working From Home With Kids

A lot of us are struggling with working from home with our kids. It isn't easy! We want to try and keep them entertained while trying to remain productive at work. Are you going through this? Well check out this great article from HGTV with some helpful hints. Hopefully you can learn something from it to help make your day more productive and a little easier, while enjoying some time with your children! 

We're all in this together. We're thinking about you and hoping you are doing well and staying healthy.

If we can be of assistance with your real estate needs during these uncertain times, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always here to help.
 


Inside Activities for High Energy Kids

Are your kids getting restless during these uncertain times? Are you running out of ideas to keep them busy? Check out this great article from Paper Heart Family with 50 ways for your kids to burn off energy! 

We're thinking about you and hope you are doing well and staying healthy.


20 Design Trends We’re Excited About For 2020

Excited to see the design trends for 2020? Check out this article from House & Home with some of their predictions. Do any catch your eye? Which one is your favourite?

As always, if you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help.


9 Expert Tips For Creating A Clutter-Free Home

Who doesn't need help with de-cluttering their home? Check out this great article from House & Home with some great simple and creative ideas. If you have any questions, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000, we're always here to help! 

5 steps to achieve first-home style

The time between inking the deal on your first home and move-in day is sure to be filled with anticipation and excitement. You’ll be thinking about the empty rooms in your soon-to-be-occupied home and the promise they hold. But it’s important to give yourself some time in the home to let your ideas evolve into better ones.

By all means visit stores, gather information, ideas, colours and fabric samples to begin your decorating plans. But remember, a truly comfortable and functional home that reflects your personal style will develop over time.  These tips will help first-time homeowners to furnish and style their new abode:

1. Resist the temptation to immediately purchase new furnishings. Organize and move in with what you have, placing furniture in rooms and finding places for items that go in closets, cupboards and drawers.

2. Measure and make a plan for each room on paper. Explore options on graph paper and consider using masking tape to mark out dimensions on the floor or walls of any furnishing you might purchase. This will ensure the pieces will work within your available space.

3. Consider unwanted elements. Home ownership affords you the luxury of making choices.  If you don’t like a lighting fixture or the wallpaper border in the kitchen, you are at liberty to replace it.

4. Consider any changes you would like to make to flooring. Carpeting from the previous owners may be crying out for replacement. Research and price out replacement options with consideration to available products, the temperature underfoot, and any need for noise reduction.

5. Create a budget. Apply a realistic price tag to your wish list and establish a time-frame to achieve your goals. Do things one step at a time and keep a tally against your budget as you go.

Soon enough, your first home will reflect your style and dovetail with your lifestyle.  More information can be found at www.royallepage.ca/realestate/info-and-advice/ 

If you have any questions or require more information, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Canadians can expect a vibrant spring real estate market

See this great article from Royal LePage with 2019 real estate stats and predictions for 2020. It looks like 2020 is going to be another great year for the Canadian housing market.

If you have any questions or require more information, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott at call at 519-621-2000. We'd love to help!


13 Indoor Blooming Plants to Get You Through Winter

Plants just help a home "feel homier"! What do you think? Winter can be so dark and gloomy that it's nice to add some natural colour to your home and what better way than adding flowering houseplants to brighten your living space. Check out this informative article from House Beautiful with some great suggestions and inexpensive ideas. 

As always, if you have any real estate questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Jessica, Lisa or Scott a call at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


Changes to the Real Estate Rules

There's been some changes to the real estate rules and we just wanted to share an article from RECO outlining everything you need to know. Click the attached link to see the full write-up.

As always, if you have any questions, please contact Scott, Lisa or Jessica at 519-621-2000. We're always here to help!


60 Holiday Gift Ideas For Everyone On Your List!

December is just around the corner and so is the holiday season! Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? If not, it's time to find some wonderful gifts for your loved ones. Check out this article from House & Home with great holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list! Hope you find this list helpful!

As always, if you're thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!


How to Check Your Furnace Before the First Snowfall

We know we've already had our first snow fall, but it took a lot of us by surprise and we didn't get our furnace ready for winter. We're supposed to have a few warm days over the next week, so maybe now's a good time to read this article and get your furnace ready!
 

This article offers you a step-by-step walkthrough on how to make sure that your furnace is ready to go! 

If you have any questions or need some advise about real estate, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're here to help!!


5 Ways Your Realtor Helps You Behind the Scenes

Thanks MoveSnap for this great article about 5 ways your Realtor can help you behind the scenes. MoveSnap is an exclusive white-glove concierge service that helps with every aspect of your move, making it easy, smooth, and stress-free. 

If you have any questions about this article or anything real estate, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help! 
http://www.homesincambridge.com/

 


6 tips from design pros for a good night's sleep

Who doesn't need a good night sleep? See this attached article from Style At Home with design tips that will help you fall asleep fast and have the best sleep possible. I think we all need some help with this!

As always, if you have any questions about this article or have any real estate questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!


Cambridge Homes Prices Continue to Rise

Home prices continue to rise in Cambridge. Check out the attached Regional Market Summary from the Q3 2019 Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast that was released today. As always, if you have any questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica at call at 519-624-2000. We’re here to help. http://www.homesincambridge.com/

Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist

Check out the following checklist from Royal LePage Canada. It's got some great quarterly home maintenance ideas to help keep your home looking its best. As always, if you have any questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help! http://www.homesincambridge.com/

Kitec Lawsuit

Thanks to our friends at ACISS Home & Commercial Inspection Consultants for this helpful information on the Kitec Lawsuit. If you have any questions, please call Scott, Lisa or Jessica at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!
 

 
Kitec Lawsuit Ends January 2020
 
 
The claim filing deadline is January 9, 2020
 
Piping with the names Kitec, PlumbBetter, IPEX AQUA, WarmRite, Kitec XPA, AmbioComfort, XPA, KERR Controls, Plomberie Améliorée are included in this settlement
 
- At this stage, only people who have experienced a failure in a Kitec plumbing system are eligible to receive settlement payments
 
- If you have not experienced a leak, you should still file a Claim Form
If there are sufficient funds remaining at the end of the claims filing period, you might be eligible for some compensation
 
- Per the plan of allocation, a payment will occur per each qualified leak experienced. The payment is approximately one half of the estimated costs to repair or replace the affected fitting or pipe
 
- If you had to replace your pluming to sell your house, you should file a Claim Form and include documentation showing that you were required to replace your Kitec System and the costs. Depending on fund sufficiency you might be eligible for compensation at the end of the claims period
 
- The laws regarding the disclosure of information to potential buyers vary depending on the state or province. If you are planning on selling your home and have a Kitec System you should disclose this information.
 
* For full details of the lawsuit go to http://www.kitecsettlement.com/
 
* If you are not sure a house has piping related to the Kitec Lawsuit contact ACISS for a pipe inspection. 905-464-6967 or email aciss@sympatico.ca
 
 


 


7 Ways to Make Your Home Look More Expensive

Who doesn't want their home to look more expensive? It doesn't have to take a million bucks to make it look like it! See the attached article from Style at Home for 7 ways to make your home look more expensive. 

If you have any questions or are thinking of buyer or selling in the Cambridge area, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!


11 Projects to Elevate Your Home This Weekend

Nothing transforms a space as quickly and easily as a fresh coat of paint! See the attached link from House & Home with DIY projects to elevate your home!

 
We love how easily a coat of paint can brighten a home. If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the Cambridge area, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!!


 


How to Choose the Perfect Air Conditioner for Your Home

With the weather being so warm lately, maybe now is the time to think about getting an Air Conditioner or upgrading your old unit to make sure you stay cool for the rest of summer. Check out this great article from the Royal LePage website about how to choose the perfect air conditioner. Hope this helps!

As always, if you have any questions about this article or any real estate question, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're always here to help!


Five Summer Projects to Increase Home Resale Value


Assessing the best return for your investment is paramount when undertaking home improvement projects. This means putting a priority on the jobs that are likely to be more valuable than others.

Summer is an ideal time to get outside and invest your time, money and resources in a project that is going to pay back when it comes time to sell your home. We recommends investing in these top five outdoor home improvements:

1. Build a deck or patio. A deck or patio not only adds visual interest and enjoyment, it is also a way to add to the resale value of your home. There are many designs and approaches to consider so start with a trip to your local library to research ideas and choose an approach that fits your time and budget.  Be sure to plan well ahead and to check your municipal building requirements as a building permit may be required for decks above a certain size and height.

2. Install a sprinkler system. On average, homeowners use 50 per cent more water than necessary on their lawns. This increases hydro bills and may subject your basement to seepage and your garden from damage from over watering.

Automatic lawn sprinkler systems are designed to allow proper irrigation through timing and even water distribution. Although there’s an initial cost of installation, you could save money in the long run.

3. Landscape your property.Landscaping is a great way to add visual interest to an   outdoor living space. Whether planning a garden or building a pond, landscaping often results in a significant return on your investment. However, always consult a trained professional before tackling a landscaping project to ensure that your project has all the elements of a professional project.

4. Build or replace a fence. Defining the limits of your property is important for a variety of reasons, including privacy, security and safety. Considering your specific needs will help you to choose the right fence. Ultimately, the fence has to fit with how you use your yard. Do your research and consult with neighbours to determine if you can complete the project jointly.

5. Re-shingle a tired roof.A strong, durable roof is an essential component of your home’s overall health and functionality. If your roof is showing signs of wear, such as raised shingles or water seepage, choosing a qualified roofing contractor is a good first step. If you decide to do the job yourself, you’ll want to estimate the materials required accurately, consider disposal options for the old shingles, and ensure that you have plenty of hands available to make light work of a rigorous one-day job.

If you are looking to sell your home, or to concentrate your efforts on improvements that will enhance your investment, additional resources can be found at www.royallepage.ca/realestate/info-and-advice/seller-resources/

If you have any additional questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're here to help!


Small Space Solutions

Compact living quarters? Check out this article from House & Home with smart tips that demonstrate how small space living is both efficient and stylish. There are some great ideas here! Let us know what you think. Do any appeal to you? Do you have any additional suggestions? We'd love to hear from you. Call or message Scott, Lisa or Jessica today. We're always here to help with your real estate needs.


8 Simple Steps to Selling Your Home

Are you thinking of selling your home in the near future? Check out this link on the Royal LePage website to help guide you through every step of the process.

Once you're ready to list or have any questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We'd love to help!


Your Shopping Guide to Home Insurance

Check out this interesting article with great suggestions on things to look for when shopping for home insurance. 

If you have any questions about insurance or real estate in general, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're here to help!


First Time Home Buyers Are Anxious About Coming Up With Down Payment

Are you a first time home buyer trying to get into the market? Do you think you'll never be able to save enough money for your down payment? You're not alone! The attached article from Royal LePage talks about key trends among first time home buyers across Canada.

If you have any questions or need some advise about real estate, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We're here to help!!


Clever Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal


First impressions are so important. Check out this great article on ways to boost your home's curb appeal.

If you're thinking of selling in the Cambridge area, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We'd love to help!


Cambridge Homes Prices Continue to See Healthy Gains

According to the just released Q1 Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Forecast, Kitchener/Waterloo/Cambridge Home Prices Continue to See Healthy Gains.

Click here to see the survey and get more information.

If you have any questions, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call at 519-624-2000. We'd love to help!


5 Tips for First Time Buyers

Did you know that 77% of first time home buyers in Canada are Millennials (those born between 1980 and 1995)? If you fit this category, then you need to checkout this post from Genworth Canada. It contains some great ideas on how to start the hunt for your first home.

If you have any questions or would like us to help with the process, give Scott, Lisa or Jessica a call today at 519-624-2000. We would love to help!


10 Easy Ways to Create a Stylish and Serene Bedroom

Time to update your bedroom? Check out this post from Canadian Living on 10 Easy Ways to Create a Stylish and Serene Bedroom. Makes me want to get my pyjamas on and cuddle up with a good book! How about you?
 


Step by Step Guide for First Time Buyers

Check out this great First Home Guide for first time buyers. It has a quiz to see if you're ready to buy, tips for saving for a down payment, mortgage information and more.

30 Year Mortgages for First Time Buyers?

Ottawa is considering a move that would allow first-time home buyers to obtain 30-year insured mortgages, up from the current 25-year limit. What do you think about this? Is it a good move or just making the problem bigger? Check out this Globe and Mail article to see how a 30-year amortization would affect mortgage payments.

Will Cambridge ever get the new mulitplex sports facility?

And so the search continues and the price keeps going up. Will Cambridge ever get a new multiplex sports facility? See this Cambridge Times article about Cambridge council cancelling negotiations with the owners of the Cambridge Centre mall as the new location for the city’s new multiplex sports facility.

5 thrifty DIY fix-ups to help sell your home

The spring market will soon be here, so now is the time to start thinking about getting your home ready for sale.

When preparing your home for the market, it’s great to know there are some relatively inexpensive improvements that can make a big impact with buyers.

A few well-placed pieces of décor and a clutter-free home are simple things you can do on a budget to bump up interest in your home. Once the fundamentals of a well-maintained home are taken care of, these easy initiatives can seal the deal.

  1. Clear the decks. Counter space is extremely important for buyers. Be sure to store kitchen and bathroom items off the counters. Purchase storage baskets in several different sizes to help you clear the decks in a hurry and minimize clutter.
  2. Brighten up storage spaces. Closets and cupboard space are important selling features. You can make the most of what you have by purging unused items and painting a light colour inside cupboards and closets. Adding battery-operated lighting is also an inexpensive way to brighten a dark closet.
  3. Replace interior room doors. Quickly and inexpensively brighten hallways and rooms by replacing interior doors and hardware. New white panelled doors and hardware can quickly freshen the home. Look for sales at your local building centre.
  4. Tear up dingy broadloom. You may be pleasantly surprised by what’s underneath. Even if you don’t like what you see, replacing broadloom is one of the most economical improvements you can make when you consider overall return on your dollar.
  5. Paint. Even high-end interior paints are a bargain when you look at what can be achieved with a fresh new finish. Opt for neutral colours in matte or eggshell finishes to camouflage flaws in walls. Trim is best handled with a white shade of satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss finish.