MARY STURINO B.Sc. FRI CRES ASP Real Estate Broker

Build the Ultimate Basement

2009-05-05T20:38:00Z

Build the Ultimate Basement

Is your home too small for the growing needs of your family? Perhaps you would like another bedroom or two? Family rooms? Home Theater? Home office? Whatever your needs, the least costly way to increase your living space is to make proper use of your basement. Proper use means making it as comfortable as any other room in your home.

How do you do that?

1. The first and most important step is a moisture barrier and effective insulation. For a relatively low cost you can insulate your floors and walls, which will greatly reduce your heating bills. Basements are huge heat sponges.

2. Heated floors will increase your comfort by a considerable degree and while at the same time increasing your energy efficiency.

3. Quality flooring of ceramic tiles, floating floors or hardwood will add luxury to your decor.

4. Walls of properly applied drywall sheeting and painted with quality paint will brighten your basement and make it resemble other rooms in your home.

5. Ceilings can be done in drywall or hanging ceilings.

6. Efficient storage with shelving, cabinets, drawers, closets, etc. will enable you to obtain maximum use of your space.

Why finish a basement?

Energy savings
Increased living space
Increased comfort and enjoyment

courtesy of the Home Renovation Guide

10 outstanding trees for small gardens

2009-05-05T20:33:00Z

Meet ten perfect trees that won't overshadow your small garden

Even the smallest garden can make room for a tree. Whether it’s an elegant potted Japanese maple or an eye-catching magnolia, trees are essential in small gardens. Not only do they form the foundation of the landscape, they can shade a sunny patio, block an awkward view or provide much needed privacy.

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When selecting the right tree for a small yard, first consider its mature size. Cute saplings can quickly grow into brutes that overwhelm the site. Second, look for multi-season interest. Trees need to earn their space in small gardens by providing colour, texture or a dramatic form in spring, summer, fall and even winter. Also, look for dwarf forms. Instead of a full size white spruce (Picea glauca), which can top 25 metres, plant a dwarf Alberta spruce (Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’), which grows to only three metres.

Small gardens have plenty of room for trees to grow upward. Columnar, fastigiate and upright forms of trees, such as beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Dawyck Purple’), hornbeam (Carpinus betulus ‘fastigiata’) and tulip (Liriodendron tuliperifera ‘Fastigiatum’), are slender enough to fit into small spaces.

These 10 trees are top choices for small gardens.

1. Amur maple (Acer ginnala) is a compact, dwarf form of maple tree that’s much more appropriate for small spaces than its many imposing relatives.
Size: Only five metres tall and wide.
Zone 2

2. Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) produces a froth of yellow flowers in early spring. There are also variegated and golden forms.
Size: Eight metres tall by six metres wide.
Zone 4

3. Paperbark maple (Acer griseum) is worth growing for its exfoliating cinnamon coloured bark alone, but its startling fall colour is a bonus.
Size: Seven metres tall and about five metres wide.
Zone 6

4. Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) cultivars come in a wide range of forms and leaf shapes.
Size: From two to six metres tall.
Zones 5 to 6

5. Magnolia (Magnolia) hybrids and cultivars come in a range of sizes, but one of the best for small gardens are “The Girls” hybrids: ‘Ann’, Betty, ‘Susan, ‘Jane and ‘Judy.
Size: Range of sizes
Zone 4

6. Serviceberry (Amelanchier x grandiflora and A. laevis) cultivars feature lacy white flowers in spring, blue-black fruit in summer and brilliant fall foliage.
Size: Heights range from five to eight metres.
Zone 4

8. Variegated Japanese angelica tree (Aralia elata ‘Aureovariegata’) has cream-edged foliage and summer clusters of creamy white flowers followed by purple berries.
Size: About four metres high by three and a half metres wide.
Zone 5

9. White cedar (Thuja occidentalis) cultivars can grow as tall as 20 metres, but rarely do they spread beyond two metres. Compact, pyramidal forms include the very narrow ‘Degroot’s Spire’, ‘Emerald’ and ‘Holmstrup’.
Size: Up to 20 metres tall, but no wider than two metres
Zone 2 to 4, depending on the species

10. Witch hazel (Hamamelis x intermedia) and its cultivars produce long-lasting yellow or red flowers in early spring and richly coloured fall foliage.
Size: About six metres tall by three metres wide.
Zone 5

Coutesy Canadian Gardening

Spring Gardening Checklist

2009-05-05T20:26:00Z

Spread finished compost on beds; add kitchen scraps and yard trimmings to the bin to start a new batch of compost.
Divide mature perennials such as phlox, showy stonecrop and bee balm.
Harden off seedlings and transplant them to the garden once all danger of frost is over.
Stake tall perennials such as herbaceous peonies, delphiniums and bellflowers.
Install a rain barrel to collect runoff from eavestroughs and use this to water your plants.
Plant out tomato and pepper plants once soil temperature reaches 17°C.
Tidy up spring-flowering perennials, such as aubretia,creeping phlox, pinks and thyme, by shearing them back once they’ve flowered.
As rhododendron and azalea flowers fade and seed heads form, pinch them off. This diverts energy from seed production to overall plant vigour.
Prune spring-flowering shrubs, such as forsythias and lilacs, right after they bloom.
Fertilize daffodils, crocuses and tulips after flowering.

Courtesy Canadian Gardening

10 tips for working with a renovating professional

2009-05-05T20:19:00Z

10 tips for working with a renovating professional

Preparing to invest some funds in updating your home? Here's what you need to think about, from your contractor's point of view.

1 Define what you want. Start by making lists of what you like and don't like in your home. Make sure that everyone who lives with you agrees with what's on the lists. What activities do you do in each room? How do they relate to features you'd like to add? All this will help your contractors understand your goals.

2 Be an informed homeowner. Personal intrusion, noise, distractions, dust and inconveniences are often unavoidable but they can be managed if you prepare yourself and your family for the process of renovation. Make your home accessible to workers, and take time to understand their schedules. Some contractors may want to work from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., others from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Discuss this with them so that their schedule accommodates your lifestyle. Plan some dinners out and a few weekend getaways to give you a break from the craziness around your house.

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3 Be a good communicator. You must completely understand what you are getting into before you purchase any products or start any work. This means always asking questions, studying drawings and confirming all details with your contractor. A calendar and message centre can help you, your children, the contractor and tradespeople know what is happening in the house on any given day. Being accessible during the day (via cellphone or a work number) can help your contractor make fast, smart decisions as issues arise.

4 Plan to spend more than you thought.
On average, people spend 10 to 20 percent more on their renovations than originally planned. If you expect this at the outset, you'll feel more at ease when you add a feature you forgot or indulge in a luxury or two.

5 Check about your contractor's references when hiring someone you don't know. Most of us find contractors through recommendations. A good contractor pays attention to details, such as placing drop cloths and cleaning the site each day, is courteous of your time, follows up with your questions and bills on a regular basis. Does he or she have a cellphone or an email address?

6 Use a contract, and be specific. Is there a start and finish date to this project? Are there provisions for extended completion dates, payment schedules and material specifications? Who buys what and who does what? Upon signing, the contractor will probably ask for a deposit – typically 10 to 20 percent of the total job. If he or she insists on something higher, you should consider this a red flag. And it goes without saying that you'd be wise to avoid cash deals.

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7 Keep a project log. Use a simple folder to keep track of products you have specified, dates of certain installations and what happens each day at the house. This will become your memory bank of the day-to-day goings-on at a chaotic work site.

8 Plan to visit showrooms alone and with your contractor. When you go on your own, you can dream, get ideas and be creative. When you take your contractor, reality will hit. The contractor can advise you on what will work in your home and the materials that he or she feels comfortable working with.

9 Be accessible during installation times.
Confirm that the showrooms you have purchased from can have a contact available. You should also be accessible by phone during the installation dates of products you have chosen. Nothing is more stressful for a contractor than installing a bathtub only to find that a part is missing or wondering how high to hang your wall sconce.

10 Be open to new ideas and changes from your original plan. You may think everything is well thought out and planned but inevitably, changes will need to be made. A good contractor will offer solutions to small problems and use his or her experience from past jobs to recommend what works best. courtesy Style at home.

15 home maintenance tips

2009-05-05T20:17:00Z

15 home maintenance tips

Get warm weather-ready with 12 tips that'll make your house shine.

Sure, you vacuum and do laundry every week. Your tub never has a ring and your stovetop is always shiny. You're house proud, and why not? Guests always comment on how organized and clean your place is. But this summer, even you can take it up a notch. Here are 12 easy chores that'll make your home shine.

1 Clean lampshades. Disconnect the lamp and remove the shade. If your shades are simple -- no decorations -- just use a damp cloth to gently wipe the inside and outside. If there are embellishments that need extra attention, use an old toothbrush to get them clean. Wipe down the lamp base and give the cord a once-over, too.

2 Wash draperies. For fabric panels: Some can go into the washer; others (like silks and fine fabrics) can be gently vacuumed, brought to the dry cleaner or washed by hand in the sink or tub. For mini-blinds: Cover your hands in a pair of cotton socks. Dip them in warm soapy water and wipe each of the slats clean.

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3 Clean ceiling fan blades. Climb a ladder and dust ceiling fan blades with a feather duster.

4 Dust the baseboards. If a simple dusting doesn't suffice to remove gathered dust on your baseboards, use a toothbrush to gently scrub them clean. Be careful not to damage the painted walls above.

5 Wipe and disinfect all your doorknobs, light-switch plates and telephones with a damp cloth. Use a damp paintbrush on stereo knobs and to dust its crevices. You can do the same for your remote control.

6 Wash all inside and outside doors with soapy water, remembering to wipe the top edge of the frame.

7 Self-clean the oven (Okay, technically this takes hours, but it only takes a few minutes to set it up).

8 Clean your coffeemaker. Technically this takes more than 10 minutes, but each step itself takes only a minute or two. Tackle each step during commercial breaks in your favourite show.

Commercial break 1: Fill up the coffemaker reservoir with one-part white vinegar to two parts cold water and "brew."

Commercial break 2: Pour the heated vinegar-and-water combination back into the reservoir after it "brews" the first time and run it again.

Commercial break 3: Discard, then fill reservoir with cold water. Run through.

Commercial break 4: Discard used rinse water and repeat with fresh water.

9 Clean your kitchen exhaust hood. Clean or replace the filter.

10 Check your water heater for signs of leakage or rust.

11 Look for worn extension cords. Replace them.

12 Inspect your furnace. Any signs of rust or scale? Any weird noises? If so, book a professional inspection.

13 Pick a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet (GFCI) and test it. Push the Test button, check that this has popped out the Reset button and that anything hooked up to the outlet will no longer power on. Push Reset and you’re good to go. Test a different GFCI outlet next time.

14 Conduct a garage door safety check.
• Put it into manual mode and lift it: it should glide smoothly and stay open on its own three feet from the ground: if not, have a pro counterbalance it.

• Put a pet- or child-size object on the ground (a small cardboard box or lightweight plastic laundry hamper, for example) and close the door. It should pop up as soon as it meets the obstacle. If not, call a pro.

15 Check your emergency flashlight. Do the batteries work? If not, replace them, or consider upgrading to a non-battery powered, manual wind-up model. courtesy Style at Home

10 Inexpensive home selling tips

2009-05-05T20:14:00Z

10 Inexpensive home selling tips

Easy ways to make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Getting ready to sell? Move your property fast – and for the highest selling price possible – with these easy, affordable staging tricks. These deal-sealing changes will make your home attractive to the largest pool of potential buyers, and the best part is, you can start at any stage in the game. Who knows – you may love your home’s new look so much that you decide not to list after all!

1 Paint!
Dollar for dollar, a fresh coat of paint gives you more bang for your decorating buck than anything else. Even if your current palette is relatively new, any scuffs or wear marks will channel an unkempt vibe. And an unusual colour choice – even if the height of fashion – may limit your home’s appeal. So break out that roller and slap on a couple coats of crowd-pleasing warm white or sand paint.

2 Improve the lighting
Replace any dated light fixtures ASAP. How can you tell if it has to go? If it’s over 15 years old and looks it – yet isn’t a vintage (50-75 years old) or antique piece (older) – it should probably go. “Retro” is not something most homebuyers are looking for. You don’t need to break the bank, just head to IKEA or Canadian Tire.

3 De-clutter
Take the collectibles off the mantel, put the mismatched armchair into storage (or better yet, donate it) and pare your closets down to what you’re actually wearing this season, packing away the rest. Ideally, all this extra stuff would head to charity (if in good, saleable condition), the garbage dump, or into storage. The more you store onsite, the more cluttered and small your home appears.

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4 Give dated bathrooms a facelift
A nice bath helps sell a house but, don’t invest in a total renovation. Renos are costly, and you won’t recoup your costs unless you find your exact décor doppelganger. Bring an out-of-date bath up to speed with gleaming white walls whether via a fresh coat of white bath and kitchen paint or ceramic tile and new lighting (Home Depot excels at affordable, stylish bathroom vanity lighting). Buy neutral new shower curtains, a simple new bath mat and vanity set, and have fresh flowers in the room during open houses.

5 Take down curtains
Dated window treatments need to come down, pronto (if it’s over 10 years old, get rid of it). If privacy isn’t an issue, just leave the windows bare to maximize natural light and make the room’s dimensions seem more generous. Otherwise, buy basic-issue cotton or linen drapes from Linens ‘N Things or another well-priced retailer. Always tie drapes back during viewings and open houses.

6 Put up mirrors
Make small rooms appear bigger and dark rooms seem brighter by adding an attractive wall mirror. A boxlike dining room will benefit from a leaning floor mirror (Lowes sells well priced ones, and HomeSense often has great deals) and an entranceway more welcoming with a console mirror.

7 Update porch hardware
Increase your home’s curb appeal by updating the hardware on your front porch. Buy a doorknocker or bell, mailbox, kick plate, doorknob and lockset in a set or in complementary styles. Brushed nickel is a neutral finish that will never date, while oil-rubbed bronze is another favourite.

8 And the porch light
Update your porch light to coordinate with the new hardware, if needed. They don’t have to be an exact match or even come from the same period, but the finishes and styles should look pleasing together.

9 Spiff up the front yard
Refresh your front yard according to the season. In spring, summer and fall, trim back dead plants and foliage and plant attractive annuals or perennials in flowerbeds. In winter, keep the walkway shoveled and cut back any tree or shrub branches damaged by heavy snowfall. A pair of planters flanking the front door and filled with seasonal arrangements instantly conveys pride of ownership.

10 Tend the backyard
Simple fix-its will make the most of your existing yard layout. Replace any damaged boards on your deck or fence, and apply a fresh coat of paint, or stain and sealant if the finish needs it. Weed and groom your garden and add some perennials for colour when in-season. If kids’ toys are taking over the space, put some in storage. Think “tidy,” “update” and “refresh”: never do anything costly or major like adding a swimming pool or pond, which may put off potential buyers style at home

Top 10 home-buyer turn-offs

2009-05-05T20:10:00Z

Learn how to avoid making your home a turn-off when you're looking to sell.

In many cities across Canada, the real estate market has cooled noticeably from the heady days of a year ago. There is a growing inventory of houses on the market, and buyers are much choosier than ever before. If you're planning to sell, it's important that you put your very best foot forward, if you want to sell quickly and at a decent price.

1 Wacky paint colours
Some buyers can overlook strange decor choices and picture the house painted white or in tasteful neutrals, but many can't. Furthermore, colour can have a strong effect on mood, both positively and negatively. Don't take the chance.

2 Dirt
A house for sale should be as near to spotless as you can make it. Particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, grimy grout, stained countertops, dishes in the sink and crunchy floors are definite turn-offs. Do at least a light cleaning before every showing and a more thorough clean each weekend before the open house.

3 Odd (or oppressive) smells
If you smoke, at least take it outside while the house is up for sale. In fact, any noticeable odours, whether pets, lingering cooking smells or even heavy perfume, can turn away a potential buyer. Use fabric refresher on upholstery and air fresheners or room scents where needed, but use a light hand.

4 Unkempt exterior
Curb appeal makes a very strong impression on a potential buyer, and so does lack of it. Make sure the landscaping is trimmed and the lawn mowed; plant a few annuals or cover your flowerbeds with a neat layer of mulch, staying away from the bright red colour and opting for the natural coloured mulch. If the front porch needs painting, paint it. Also, keep the outside of your home as tidy as the interior: remove kids' toys from the backyard, and keep the porch steps swept.

5 Too many pets
It's hard to believe that not everybody loves Fluffy, Fifi, and Rover as much as you do, but they don't. A dog that comes barking fiercely to the door as soon as you ring the bell, or worse, a whole pack of them, is unnerving. One cat sleeping quietly in a chair might be fine; a noisy (and possibly smelly) menagerie isn't. Try to find temporary homes for your friends, at least while the house is being shown.

7 Clean window screens by removing them and laying them on the ground in the yard. Spray with the garden hose, wipe with a soapy cloth and rinse with the hose.

9 Clean drains. Nothing says summer like a fresh-smelling home, and stale drains can sometimes give off a subtle odour. In the kitchen and bathroom drains, pour about half a box of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a small plate or bowl for a few minutes. Complete the process by running the cold-water tap for a few minutes.

10 Clean all filters. Your dehumidifier may be getting a workout this season, as will your central air conditioner and air-purifier unit. Remove each of those filters and screens, submerge them in water and gently brush with a cloth. Let stand outside to dry before reattaching.

11 Disinfect all your garbage cans and recycling bins. Take them outside and douse them with cleaner. Grab a tall, cool drink and call your best friend. When you get off the phone, attack garbage cans with the garden hose. Leave them upside down on the deck and put your feet up until they drip-dry.

12 Clean out the kitty litter box. Those plastic buckets, domes, houses and other containers are indestructible, it's true -- but that doesn't mean they don't get filthy. Take the litter box out to the backyard and hose it down. Soap and water will work wonders. style at home

12 tips that'll make your house shine

2009-05-05T20:04:00Z

Get warm weather-ready with 12 tips that'll make your house shine...

Sure, you vacuum and do laundry every week. Your tub never has a ring and your stovetop is always shiny. You're house proud, and why not? Guests always comment on how organized and clean your place is. But this summer, even you can take it up a notch. Here are 12 easy chores that'll make your home shine.

1 Clean lampshades. Disconnect the lamp and remove the shade. If your shades are simple -- no decorations -- just use a damp cloth to gently wipe the inside and outside. If there are embellishments that need extra attention, use an old toothbrush to get them clean. Wipe down the lamp base and give the cord a once-over, too.

2 Wash draperies. For fabric panels: Some can go into the washer; others (like silks and fine fabrics) can be gently vacuumed, brought to the dry cleaner or washed by hand in the sink or tub. For mini-blinds: Cover your hands in a pair of cotton socks. Dip them in warm soapy water and wipe each of the slats clean.

Clean window screens by removing them and laying them on the ground in the yard. Spray with the garden hose, wipe with a soapy cloth and rinse with the hose.

8 Clean shower curtains. Cloth curtains: Take them down and wash them in the washing machine, then hang them outside to dry. Before hanging them back up in the shower, soak them in salt water to prevent mildew. Plastic curtains: Leave them hanging in the shower and spray the top with your favourite cleaner, letting it run down to cover the entire curtain. Allow cleaner to sit for a few minutes, then rinse with the showerhead or wipe with a sponge.

courtesy of Style at Home

How to: Get organized with containers

2009-05-05T19:27:00Z

Dump the junk, clean up the clutter and get organized with some simple tips for minimizing the mess.

According to Eileen Roth, organizing consultant and author of Organizing for Dummies (IDG Books Worldwide, 2001), the best space-saving storage solutions are to invest in clear, plastic storage containers. “The more loose things there are, the more disorganization exists,” she says. So pack it up and pack it away! Here, Eileen shares more tips for dumping the junk.

Space-saving storage

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Square containers are better than round containers; just the design of round containers wastes space (corners are cut off.) Round containers are great for storing mixing bowls or a ball basket in the garage. Use square containers for storing food, clothing and holiday items.
Clear containers are best so you can see the contents. Label all containers with whatever they contain. Keep containers under the bed (you can buy containers that have wheels) for extra sweater storage. There are also clear containers for rolls of wrapping paper and bows that can go under a guest room bed.
Stacking containers often save space and are more stable. Wire shelves with legs let you put one size container underneath and another size above. Stacking pullout drawers under the bathroom sink are great space savers too.
Shoe containers are varied, but I don't recommend the pocket holders, as most shoes don't fit in them. Keep your shoeboxes and stack them, or buy clear containers and stack them so you can see what's inside.
If you have the floor space, you can also buy stacking laminated wood shelves – so all shoes will fit regardless of the heel.
Just because the closet came with one shelf doesn't mean you can't adjust the height and add another one! You can also add shelves to bedroom closets to hold sweaters, purses, folded T-shirts, sweat suits or shoes.
Putting up shelves or cabinets in the laundry room will help hold laundry detergents and keep them off the floor.
Buy a tool chest or at least a pegboard to hold tools in the garage.
Cabinets in the garage can hold excess paper goods, summer items, car accessories, etc.
Storage racks for sports equipment (golf bags, tennis rackets, hockey sticks/skates) will keep it off the floor.
Buy a desk with a hutch to store books and paper over the computer. Be sure to calculate how much space the monitor, printer(s), and CPU take up. If you need space to work as a regular desk make it an L- or U-shape desk.
Get a decent filing cabinet to hold papers and bills. Don't save everything. Decide what you need and get rid of the rest! Excess papers can be stored in either a cabinet in the garage or bankers boxes

courtesy of Eileen Roth

Bank of Canada Rates Slashed in Half to 0.25%

2009-04-23T18:48:00Z

The Bank of Canada has taken its influential target interest rate to the lowest practical level in an effort to combat what it says is deeper and more widespread global recession.

The central bank sliced the overnight rate in half to 0.25% yesterday and signalled strongly it will have to keep it there until at least mid-2010.

Bank of Montreal was the first of Canada's big banks to announce that it would lower its own prime rate in step with the central bank, dropping it to 2.25%, and the other chartered banks followed suit.

In addition, the BoC has extended the term of the purchase and resale agreements it uses to inject liquidity into money markets from one-and-three months to six-and-12 months, while setting minimum and maximum bids that correspond to the historically low target rate.

The central bank said it will target a daily level of settlement balance in the financial system at $3 billion - a move it says will help drive the overnight rate to the bottom of the trading band. - The Canadian Press

In the global context, Canadian consumers are doing quite well, at least psychologically, says a report to be released later this month on the state of the global consumer - and in a Canada-specific analysis that was released Monday.

The Boston Consulting Group probed the psyche of more than 13,000 consumers across 13 countries, gauging consumer sentiment and buying intentions. As you would expect, much of it isn't pretty. That goes for Italy. And France. The US, of course. And Spain - especially Spain.

"Canadians are actually doing very well," says Cliff Grevler, partner and managing director of Boston Consulting in Toronto. "When I say they're doing very well, they're doing very well compared to two things. One, the trend line we established in the fourth quarter. And two, compared to all Western counterparts."

That trend line compares Canadian attitudes in the first quarter of this year against the state of the consumer in the fourth quarter of 2008. In the three months ending December 31st, 62% of Canadian respondents said they intended to cut their discretionary spending in the year ahead. In fact, more Canadian consumers than American consumers said they intended to cut back.

That sentiment has been reversed, however, in the first quarter of this year. Yes, a majority of Canadians still intend to ratchet back their spending levels, but that's a marked improvement from the closing months of '08. - Globe and Mail

The Canadian Real Estate Association said last week that the volume of existing home sales was up 7% in March, on the heels of February's 10.3% gain in activity.

"The story is that price reductions are working as intended. They are stabilizing the market and they are drawing buyers... who are taking advantage of improved affordability," said Gregory Klump, CREA's chief economist. - Globe and Mail

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Organized Spaces

2009-03-18T22:39:00Z

A walk through the crucial planning stages of getting organized

Who doesn’t need to be better organized these days? From collections to wardrobes to holiday décor, there is a definite abundance of stuff in our lives. No matter how much storage space you have, customized solutions help keep you organized and also keep clutter in check. While the basic steps to your organizational project tend to be the same, each has specific problems to consider. We consulted the experts to find out the best way to go about starting a custom closet, garage or wine cellar.

Tackling the Closet
Larger closets, clean closets, organized closets. Every homeowner wants them, but where to start? Prior to consulting a professional, do a complete wardrobe review, suggests Randy Fry of Fairfax, Virginia-based California Closets. Set aside all non-essential items to be given away or put into storage. “If you haven’t worn an item in a year, consider it non-essential,” says Fry. Now you’re ready to face the design process.

DO: Plan ahead. Give some thought to a “wish list” for your ideal closet. A professional will be able to provide the specifics and give you plenty of options, says Fry, but every client has different needs.

DON’T: Overindulge your wish list. Fry encourages “a dash of minimalism” for an efficient use of space, at least in the beginning. It’s best to begin the design process with the basic requirements of adequate hanging space and proper shelving layout, before cramming in too many details.

“Without organization, there is no closet building,” says Fry. Remember, it is about having a system to keep things neat. Trust your closet professional to introduce the best features to create the most efficient system for you.

In the Garage
A similar process should take place in the garage—but with that much more space, there is that much more clutter to tame. Think carefully about how you are going to use the garage, says Skip LaBella of Thompson Creek Garage Interiors in Landover, Maryland. How many cars are you hoping to park in it? What do you need to store in it? Are you hoping to fit in other features, such as a workshop?

“The biggest challenge in organizing the garage is the purging phase,” says Gilly Arie of Potomac Garage Solutions in Rockville, Maryland. Once you’ve figured out what you’re getting rid of—and what might come in later—evaluate what you will need the easiest access to, and what is seasonal.

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It’s important to start with a plan because “you will be investing a lot of time, money and effort,” and want to be sure you have what you need, says LaBella. If the finished project doesn’t fit your needs, you won’t keep it organized.

DO: Research. First, look carefully into the companies you want to work with. Consider how long they have been in business, and do they offer their own warranty beyond that of the manufacturers of the products they install?

Second, assess the materials each company uses. It’s important to know how the cabinets, shelves and storage bins will hold up in the environment of your garage. One of the most persistent problems in garages is moisture, since most garages are not insulated, which leads to greater temperature fluctuations. Moisture can be absorbed into such materials as particleboard, and lead to structural failure.

“The best advice I can give to my customers is to have their garage designed of the most flexible and durable products,” says Arie. There’s no denying that garages are going to hold a lot of stuff, so be sure the cabinetry will stand up to the weight of what they will store.

DON’T: Set your cabinets directly on the floor. This will increase moisture exposure and will also provide a hiding spot for bugs and rodents. Cabinets should be raised a few inches off the floor.

The biggest sign of success will be how the garage functions down the line, not only in terms of space, but how you treat it. If you’ve given yourself plenty of places to put things, you’re more likely to keep it neat, says LaBella.

Custom Wine Cellar
Many luxury homes these days come with a variety of specialized organizational spaces. Among the most popular is the wine cellar, which requires special attention and a slightly different approach than standard storage areas.

DO: Carefully consider what room or space will best suit your needs. Like most projects, this means knowing how you plan to use the space, according to Lisa Weiss of the Wine Cellar Company in McLean, Virginia. Consider whether or not you will be entertaining in or near this space. Would you like to taste wine in your cellar? And, of course, how many bottles do you ultimately hope to store/collect?
Another factor to consider is if you will be controlling the temperature of your wine cellar with refrigeration, which greatly impacts the preparation of the room and the space you need. Refrigerated wine cellars usually require a minimum space of four by four feet.

DON’T: Install standard drywall in a refrigerated cellar. Use a moisture-resistant product like green board, and be sure to put a vapor barrier up with the installation.

DO: Carefully research who will install your cellar. A wine collection can be quite an investment, and you want to protect it. “Building a wine cellar correctly will make all the difference in the world,” says Weiss. While it can be a beautiful feature in the home, you should be sure the specialist you choose has the knowledge and skill to back up his or her design.

DON’T: Feel you have to give up aesthetics for bottle count and functionality, says Weiss. Even modest-sized spaces can hold a surprisingly large collection and still be elegant. Pull-out tables and curved corners maximize space and still allow for tastings in the room. Quality woods, stains and elements such as architectural details and decorative painting can make even the smallest space welcoming, and add a warm touch to more expansive ones.

Whatever your custom space, the experts agree that it’s important to know what you want out of your organizational system. In addition, it’s crucial to choose experts who have the experience to both help you figure out what you need, and to make it work. Adds Fry, “Remember that the design process is collaborative; both the designer and client bring important elements to the solution.”

Courtesy: Written by Heather C. Jackson

HomeTech- Latest in Home Security

2009-03-18T22:14:00Z

Home security, once contained in a plain and simple wall unit, has taken a futuristic turn with new technologies. From systems run by key-faubs to biometric fingerprint identification, there are numerous possibilities available to homeowners today. While they may seem like something out of The Matrix or Gattaca, they are real and ready to use.

New Technology
Biometric fingerprint technology is something homeowners are just beginning to utilize. It involves placing one's finger on a scanner and having it read before gaining access to a building. Previously, the technology was only used in high-security or corporate settings, but now with its lower cost and easy installation, it is available for home use, according to Joe Gordon, president of Leading Edge Residential System Integration in Severn, Maryland.

Like biometric fingerprinting, iris scanning is also available for the home. It involves the installation of front door cameras that scan a person's iris before they can gain clearance to enter a home.

Card readers, also previously reserved for corporate settings, are now available for home-based security systems. Like the other technologies, they have also decreased in price, making them more accessible to homeowners, Gordon said.

Another new technology is key-faubs, similar to the devices used with cars to automatically lock, unlock, open the trunk and issue panic signals. Sherman Eisner, president of A&E Home Security in Silver Spring, Maryland, said key-faubs are an ideal choice for families. They can be used to open and close the garage door, engage or disarm the security system and also have a panic button. When a busy parent is transporting children, groceries and the like, he or she can just press the key-faub and enter the house, rather than worry about opening the garage and turning off the security system manually, Eisner said.

Most of these access-control technologies can be remotely programmed over the phone and the Internet. For example, if a homeowner is at work and a cleaning service is coming to the house, he or she can program a code online, give it to the service person and it will expire the next day.

Sherman Eisner, president of A&E Home Security in Silver Spring, Maryland, said key-faubs are an ideal choice for families. They can be used to open and close the garage door, engage or disarm the security system and also have a panic button.

Wireless Security Technology
Wireless security is another big trend, since it eliminates the need to hard-wire a home. When it first became available, said Eisner, wireless systems had a bad reputation, but today they are very reliable. Wireless sensors are installed on doors and windows; system control pads can be wireless as well. The wireless technology is run on batteries, which last much longer than they once did. Additionally, the systems notify the user well in advance when the battery needs to be replaced.

Integrated Security Systems
Today's security systems are often integrated into other "smart home" technology, Gordon said. Experts can set up an integrated home system that controls lighting, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), audio and video. With an integrated system, for example, if a security alarm goes off, the external lights will go on and start flashing to scare off intruders and attract attention to the home. "We design everything around the notion of a control system—the security system becomes a component," Gordon said.

Security cameras are one component of this system. Cameras are placed around the home and integrated with televisions. Views around the home are shown on the TVs at designated times or occurrences. For example, when someone rings the door bell, the camera is activated and the selected TV shows who is at the door. According to Gordon, the system can also be integrated into the phone system so that when someone rings the doorbell, the phone rings and the resident can speak to the person at the front door through an intercom. Once the resident answers, they can let the guest in through a keypad or touch panel.

Touchpads are an important part of an integrated system—they control everything in the home from security to climate to lighting. They can be located on the walls, in handheld devices, or sit on a counter or desktop. Most touchpads range in size from 3.5 inches to 17 inches, Gordon said. The pads are available as wireless, wired or a combination of the two. Some also include graphics and have video input to show activity at the exterior doors.

Installing Home Security
As security systems become more prevalent, more homes are being pre-wired to accommodate them, Eisner said. Leading Edge Residential System Integration does a mix of retrofit and new home work. The amount of time to install these integrated systems depends on the size of the home.

With new construction, home-security experts like to start at the beginning and work with the homeowner's architect orgeneral contractor. They install components as the house is being built. "If the house takes a year to build, we're there for a year," Gordon said.

Installing a system in a pre-existing home is much more compressed. A simple system takes a couple of weeks while a more complicated system takes longer, Gordon said. Of course, it's easier to install a new wireless system in an existing home, as opposed to retrofitting a conventional system that would require hard wiring.

Home security has come a long way over the past decade. Whether you opt for a new futuristic solution or a more traditional system, the new products on the market today can help secure your family and your home in an effective and easy-to-use way.

Courtesy: Futuristic technology and wireless capabilities hit the home-security market

Written by Rachel Azaroff

2009 appliance trends

2009-03-09T19:54:00Z

Check out some of the latest trends in home appliances for 2009.

High-tech, "smart" appliances use electronics both for a more efficient
operation and to perform functions unheard of only a few years ago: fridges that make dinner suggestions or tell you what you’re out of; ovens and dishwashers that can be programmed to come on at a time that's convenient for you; built-in computers, televisions, MP3 player docks and many other, now almost routine high-tech functions.

At the same time, simpler values are being reflected in appliance design, like the desire for fresher food, simpler and healthier cooking methods and lower energy use. And quality, even in midpriced appliances, has never been higher. Here’s a survey of some of the newest bells and whistles out there.

Overall
Stainless steel is king for a reason: Not only is it chic and sophisticated but it also goes with almost any kitchen style and won't go out of date any time soon. It is also hygienic and durable. At least one company, Jenn-Air, has
brought out "oiled bronze" to give stainless a run for its money. It evokes a beautiful, warm tone, especially in a suite of appliances.

Small appliances are equally hightech: Mixers, food processors and coffee makers (as well as espresso and cappuccino makers) are all being made to high standards but are coming down in price.

Refrigerators
As enthusiasm for bottled water fades built-in water filters are taking off: The most sophisticated ones can filter out contaminants as well as chlorine and sediment. The newest SubZero units feature air purification that "scrubs" interior fridge air every 20 minutes or so, eliminating odours, viruses and bacteria, as well as gases that can hasten food spoilage.

Ovens, cooktops, and ranges
Steam ovens are leading the way in the newest healthy, energy-efficient methods of cooking, sealing in nutrients and flavour and cooking quickly.
LG built-in cooktops and wall ovens contain a touch screen that provides a wealth of information -- such as a recipe bank -- and can often be programmed to automatically set the oven temperature.

Induction cooking is the newest energy-saving technology, especially safe on a built-in island or counter since the cooktop quickly heats pots but stays cool to the touch.

Some conventional radiant-heat cooktops now offer constant heat rather than cycling on and off, for more even cooking.

Oven drawers, like fridge drawers introduced a few years ago, provide a
convenient under-drawer position for an island or beneath a regular wall oven. Space-saving double-wall ovens feature two separate ovens in the space of one.

Microwaves
Some microwaves include a convection setting, for even cooking and browning, but without the energy consumption of a full-sized oven.Another type features a radiant-heat lamp for warming foods safely for up to 90 minutes.

Dishwashers
At last, time-delay start makes real sense: As many municipal electric utilities move to graduated electricity use, you can set the dishwasher to run late at night when rates are cheaper.

Extra-capacity units can wash up to 16 place settings in the same space as a conventional 12-place unit, with larger tubs and stronger spray motors.

Sensor units test water cleanliness and adjust to provide only as much water and cleaning time as needed. The GE SmartDispense unit can be filled once every two months or so with liquid detergent and dispenses exactly the right amount based on water hardness, level of dirt on dishes and the cycle you choose. GE also recently introduced a clothes washer with the same feature.

High-power scrubbing units use multiple power jets to eliminate prescrubbing to avoid wasting water. Courtesy Style at Home

10 best home upgrades for resale

2009-03-09T19:48:00Z

Consider giving your home any of these 10 upgrades when looking to sell.

If you're preparing your home for sale, there are certain improvements that are definitely worth their cost in helping to attract more buyers, sell your home faster, make back most (or all!) of your investment, or even increase the value of your home.

1 Kitchen
A state-of-the-art kitchen is one of the most popular renovations for earning back most, if not all, of its investment. Even if you don't fully gut and renovate, certain upgrades --granite counters, hardwood or high-end tile floors, premium appliances (especially stainless steel), islands and undermount sinks -- attract attention and can increase value.

2 Hardwood floors
Especially on the main floor, hardwood is perennially popular with buyers. If your floors are refinished but worn, have them lightly sanded and resealed. If they're very beaten up consider replacing them.

3 Premium broadloom
Broadloom is popular too (especially for bedrooms), but only if in top condition. If it's worn, soiled or out of fashion, replace it with something more contemporary. Neutral, lightly textured weaves such as wool “sisal” are fashionable right now.

4 Master ensuite
If your ensuite is a bit tired, it's worth upgrading, especially if you can afford a few luxuries such as a whirlpool or air jet tub, separate shower with a rainshower head, double sinks and/or heated floors. If you don't have an ensuite, perhaps you can install one by stealing space from the master bedroom or a room next to it.

5 Radiator covers
It's a simple carpentry job, but makes almost any older home seem more gracious

Upgraded lighting Old-fashioned "can" track lighting can be easily replaced with more contemporary styles such as smaller cans or halogen track lights. Replace dingy overhead lighting with chandeliers (vintage or modern), or install them in rooms that don't have any.

7 A finished basement
After kitchens and bathrooms, a stylishly finished basement is high on many buyers' wish lists. If the ceiling is low and you can afford the investment, consider digging down to increase ceiling height. If you can't, levelling the floor and installing broadloom will help make it more comfortable.

8 Landscaping
A well-maintained garden with attractive plantings, hardscaping such as brick or flagstone, and features such as urns or paths, add an elegant look to even a smaller home.

9 Front porch
Two or three decades ago, tearing off front porches became fashionable in some Canadian cities, but now they're back in a big way. If you can, add a full front porch (or replace/repair the one you have if it isn't in top condition); if not, a portico (a smaller porch that shelters the front door) can be a worthy substitute. Or add a deck in the back.

10 Adding a bedroom
A four-bedroom house will command a higher price than a three-bedroom, even if they're both the same size. Consider dividing a large bedroom into two small ones (as long as they're not too small, or it can have the opposite effect), or alternatively, consider converting an upstairs den or sitting room Courtesy of style at home

10 quick tips to flip your home

2009-03-09T19:44:00Z

10 easy ways to get your home ready to be flipped -- and to ensure a successful outcome!

Though the heady days of the real estate boom are gone for now, real estate continues to be one of the safest investments you can make—that is, if you invest smartly. The key is to know what improvements to make, be realistic about what you can expect to gain, and to have a very clear idea of what is happening in the neighbourhood. Caroline Altman of Lighten The Load, a company that specializes in a range of home staging, decorating and moving services, offers the following tips to would-be real estate tycoons.

1 Do your homework
Before you even think about flipping a property, compare the home you plan to flip with other homes in the area. If a comparable property sold for $600,000 with a renovated kitchen and new appliances, don’t think you can get the same $600,000 by repainting the kitchen cabinets and laying down new linoleum.

When you scout other properties, note what upgrades have been made. Are the kitchens and baths fully renovated, with granite countertops and stone tile, custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, or more modest? Are there brand new hardwood floors throughout? Recessed lighting? A finished basement? Is the electrical and plumbing upgraded?

2 Upgrade landscaping
Remove old or dying trees, bushes and flowers. Trim overgrown areas. Replace dead grass with fresh sod. Plant evergreens, wreaths and potted urns in winter, and colourful blooms in spring and summer. Use wood chips (try chocolate- or cedar-scented versions) or gravel to inexpensively cover large trouble areas.

3 Spruce up the exterior
Paint flaking or dry-rotted windowsills and shutters. Paint the front and back doors as well as the garage doors, or if needed, replace them. Repair or replace broken or non-working eavestroughs. Repair or replace any aging or broken fencing. Finally, consider adding exterior lighting to enhance curb appeal.

4 Renovate the kitchen and bathrooms
These are perennial focal points for buyers, but you must find a balance between being cost-conscious and looking like you took the cheap route. Kitchens can cost between $15,000-$250,000, and bathrooms can run between $6,000-$120,000. Again, check the comparables and see what materials they used. If most of the homes in the neighbourhood feature granite countertops and brand-new appliances, then you should follow suit if you expect a similar price tag.

5 Replace/upgrade flooring
Again, check the comparables in your neighbourhood before you decide on what new flooring you should choose. If all the homes in the area have new hardwood, don’t lay down laminate, unless you want to sell your property at a lesser value.

You can cut costs by choosing synthetic versus natural stone tile, and sanding and re-staining hardwood instead of replacing it. Also, you can save by having your carpet company bind large remnants for bedrooms instead of installing wall-to-wall carpet. This should only be done if the floor is hardwood and in relatively good condition.

10 easy ways to get your home ready to be flipped -- and to ensure a successful outcome!

6 Paint

Don’t just paint the walls; do everything—ceilings, closets, baseboards and interior doors. It will make the property feel brand-new. Remember to choose neutral colours.

7 Change old switch plates
Nothing ages a property more than old, outdated and yellowed switchplates. You can hire an electrician or do it yourself if you have the skills. Dimmer switches in dining rooms, eat-in kitchens and living rooms add an inexpensive and nice touch.

8 Install crown mouldings
Adding crown moulding is a non-structural change that can reinvent any interior. Avoid the cheaper versions from large hardware chains that you can install yourself; they may save you money, but will look cheap. Make sure you choose a crown moulding of significant size that matches the style of the house, and make sure there are no visible seams once installed. Also, if you re-do crown mouldings, consider adding new baseboards as well.

9 Modernize lighting
Pot lights run about $100 and up, making them a high-return investment. Consider adding new chandeliers in the foyer, dining room and kitchen. Check a large hardware chain for knock-off versions of designer fixtures that you can purchase for a fraction of the cost.

10 Upgrade plumbing and electrical
If you can afford it, the cost is well worth it, since the buyer will likely ask for more credit back on the purchase than an electrician and plumber would charge to complete the work beforehand.

Finally, make sure you have a savvy real estate agent on board who knows your specific neighbourhood. Make sure that the changes you make bring your property up to a similar level to the competing properties in your neighbourhood. Also, be aware of fluctuating markets. Don’t assume that a property that sold in your neighbourhood a year ago will yield the exact same price.

Remember the goal to flipping is to make money. Be realistic about profit margins before you begin. You can’t sell a million-dollar home in a moderately priced neighbourhood where homes go for a maximum of $600,000—no matter how much marble you use. Courtesy of Style at Home