This time of year, it can be comforting to curl up beside a crackling fireplace or gather family and friends around the warmth of a wood stove. Take the necessary steps now to ensure that wood stoves and fireplaces are operating property and free of potential hazards.
 
Watch for the warning signs
Look for corrosion or rust on the outer shell of a metal chimney. Watch for bulges or corrosion of the liner as well. Loose bricks, crumbling mortar, dark stains and white powder all indicate problems with a masonry chimney. A certified heating contractor or mason should repair it immediately.
 
Check stove pipes and connections
Ensure that screws are located at every joint and that each connection is a tight, secure fit. Also, look for signs of dark staining or white powder (also referred to as leeching) at every joint. Rust is a clear sign that it is time to replace the stove pipe.
 
Check walls for excessive heat
If the wall above your fireplace or wood stove gets very hot, it could be a sign of improper chimney installation and a potential fire hazard.
 
Protect walls and floors from heat and sparks
Keep combustible objects away from your wood stove or fireplace and always use a properly fitted screen to cover the fireplace opening. Floors and walls should be protected with non-combustible shields.
 
When in doubt, call an expert!
The safest and most practical way to handle the annual maintenance of your chimney, woodstove and fireplace is to contact a WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) certified chimney sweep. It is a relatively small investment for peace of mind.
 
Stay warm and safe this winter!

Most people know the basics of preparing a home for a viewing or an open house. But, there are a number of lesser known tips — tips you often don’t hear about — that can make your home even more attractive and desirable to potential buyers.

In the kitchen, for example, it’s obvious that the stove, sink, and countertops should be spotless. But, did you know that grinding a lemon just before a viewing will help eliminate any lingering odours? You should also arrange the contents of your cabinets and refrigerator to all face forward.

In the bathrooms, make sure the toilet lids are closed. Hang matching towel sets. Moving onto the bedrooms, check that nothing is lying around. Even a shirt draped neatly over a chair can appear messy to some people. In the kids’ rooms, the toys should be “staged”, not just flung around.

If possible, move half the contents of all closets into storage. This makes a big difference in how spacious they’ll appear.

And here’s another uncommon tip. House plants look their best — brighter, more upright and alive — approximately four hours after you water them.

All these tips take just minutes to implement, but they can make a big difference in how your home shows. Studies prove that a well prepped home will often sell faster, and for a higher price, so it’s worth the effort.

Your household’s water system is a valuable asset that requires maintenance to perform well, and keep costs down.

First, check for dripping or running fixtures. Next, go to your water meter, which measures total usage including leaks. If it registers flow when no facilities are in use, you could be wasting water. To verify this, do a visual check on all supply pipes and connections. If the entire system is not accessible, listen carefully for hissing that indicates a leak or a running fixture.

Also check where fixtures connect with drain pipes (e.g. under sinks and around toilets) to ensure water isn’t seeping out. For toilets, place a coloured toilet bowl puck in the tank and wait 24 hours. If the water in the bowl becomes coloured, you have a leak.

You may also have additional units such as humidifiers, sprinklers, misters, fountains or pools that also need to be checked for leaks, calcium build-up or mould, on a seasonal basis.

To keep your home heating system working the way it should this season, there are actions that you as the owner can take, but there are things that need to be left to a professional.

SAFETY TIPS

Do-it-yourself

-  Examine the heating system occasionally for signs of deterioration, such as water stains, corrosion or leakage; in forced-air systems, clean the furnace air filters frequently - at least twice a heating season.

-  Keep the area around the furnace free from dust, lint, rags, paint, drain cleaners and other materials or chemicals that could catch fire or explode if they become too hot.

-  Make sure warm-air outlets and cold air outlets are not covered by carpets or blocked by debris.

-  Make sure walls, other obstructions or new renovations do not block the heating system's air supply.

Call a professional

-  If your heating system stops working, check the electrical fuse, the switch and the thermostat, and then call for a heating technician.

-  If snow or ice covers your outdoor regulator, contact your fuel supplier.

-  Under no circumstances should unqualified people tamper with heating systems; if you have questions or concerns, contact a TSSA-registered heating contractor by visiting COSafety.ca.

Electric space heaters are a handy way to add a little extra warmth to one corner of your home without turning up the furnace. However, they can be a harzard if not used properly. You may want to follow the manufacturer's instructions and these safety tips to stay safe and warm:

- Never use space heaters to dry flammable items such as clothes or blankets;

- Keep all flammable objects at least three (3) feet away from space heaters;

- If using an extension cord, make sure it is the right size and gauge to carry the electrical load being drawn by the space heater;

- Never use an electric space heater in a wet area or any area that could be exposed to water;

- Keep an eye on children and pets at all times when a portable space heater is in use;

- NEVER use fuel burning portable space heaters (i.e. propane or kerosene) in any enclosed space; it can lead to deadly carbon monoxide exposure.

It’s early in the evening and there’s a knock on the door. You answer and are greeted by an official-looking man who claims he needs to see your utility bill to confirm you’re getting your energy rebate.

Do you let him in?

While he may be legitimate, he may also be using deception to sell you something you don’t want. Here are some suggestions for finding out:

• Ask for a business card. Then, check if it has an address, phone number and website. If the salesperson refuses or just shows you his ID card (which anyone can fake), that’s a red flag.

• Ask for the name of his employer. Sometimes salespeople will say they “represent the phone company”. That doesn’t mean they actually work for it.

• Ask if you can call his company to confirm details before buying. If he refuses, or says the office is closed, shut the door.

• Ask if you can consider the offer and call the office the next day to place your order.

• If you’re really suspicious, ask him to come back later. Then, call the non-emergency police number. Police are aware of common scams in the area.

Most importantly, use your common sense. Door-to-door salespeople can be pretty persuasive, but if something doesn’t seem right to you, trust your gut. Say, “No thanks.”

Of course, if everything checks out with the salesperson, and the offer is a good one, consider taking advantage of it.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE N-15 FORM

In September 2016, new Ontario Legislation (Bill 132) came into effect allowing people threatened by domestic abuse and/or sexual harassment to terminate their tenancies early, whether they signed a lease or not. This early-notice provision is obtained through an N-15 form which the tenant submits to his/her landlord.

What do I do when I receive an N-15?

First and foremost – keep it strictly CONFIDENTIAL! Do not mention, refer to it, or show it to anyone among your employees, colleagues or tenants. The only permitted exception is a property manager acting directly and confidentially with that tenant on your behalf.

You are permitted to obtain professional legal advice and contact the Landlord Tenant Board or provincial Ministry of Housing about N-15 you have received. These individuals or agencies are also bound by law to maintain confidentiality.

For more information: About Bill 132 and Ontario's Sexual Violence and Harassment Action Plan legislation, visit https://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page142.aspx

To view an N-15 blank form for reference, visit https://www.sjto.gov.on.ca/documents/ltb/Notices%20of%20Termination%20&%20Instructions/N15.pdf

Remember: You can help keep at-risk tenants safe by properly handling N-15 forms. Landlords and corporate rental providers who breach confidentiality laws can be subject to fines ranging from $25,000 to $100,000.

When it comes to updating their living space, some homeowners enjoy doing the research and then planning, designing and decorating on their own. Many believe they will save a substantial amount of money. While that may be true, they may also be doing themselves a disservice by overlooking the benefits of hiring an interior designer (for creating and maximizing functional living space) and/ or an interior decorator (for furnishing and adorning a home or room for aesthetic appeal).

While homeowners may seek inspiration from magazines and websites, designers and decorators know how to adapt those concepts to the available space. They can also ensure that their suggestions and recommendations are practical and attainable and take advantage of the latest products and systems available.

In addition, they can offer the added benefit of applying rebates and discounts from manufacturers, importers and trade showrooms – which the average consumer simply can’t get. Those discounts may even help offset the cost of the professional fees.

But, perhaps the greatest benefit of hiring professionals is the peace of mind that comes from knowing they can save you a great deal of time, especially if you have too many ideas or none at all.

At this time of year, more fireplaces, portable heaters and candles are being put into use, so it’s important to take the time to thoroughly educate yourself and your family about fire prevention and response. Here are four valuable suggestions to follow. if you are ever unsure about them, consult your fire department.

1. if you have any combustible fuel units, be sure their exhaust systems are clean and safe.
2. make sure every room has fire-escape options (e.g. doors & windows) as designated by your local fire code.
3. install emergency equipment such as alarms, extinguishers and escape ladders.
4. identify alternate exits in case of an emergency, and a safe place to meet to ensure everyone is accounted for.

There could be several reasons a vacuum cleaner loses its suction. Beyond a full bag or canister, lack of suction might be caused by a blocked pipe or hose. This can be checked using a flashlight and coat hanger or broomstick.

It's also a good idea to check the beater head and remove entangled hair or string. Also, be sure the vacuum is set correctly for the surface you're cleaning.

Next, make sure all the couplings are airtight, from the end attachments to the main body as well as inside the unit where dust gets sucked and stored. Without a proper seal, grit could get misdirected into the motorized section, potentially causing damage. This area should also have a clean, protective filter.

Finally, keep the exhaust clear for optimum suction. By following these basic tips, you can prolong the life and effectiveness of your current vacuum.

When you’re about to sell your home, it may be disheartening to see other properties for sale in your neighbourhood. You may be thinking, “That’s a lot of competition! Will our property get noticed?”

Fortunately, there are many proven strategies for standing out in a competitive local market.

First of all, keep in mind that many home purchasers come from the REALTOR’S personal network of buyers who want to move into your area. So, choosing the right REALTOR® is crucial.

Second, remember that when there are other properties for sale on your street, curb appeal becomes even more important. There are many simple things you can do to make your property look great to those driving around looking at homes. Make sure your property looks as picture perfect as possible.

In a competitive market, it’s also more important than ever to highlight features of your home that are unique and enticing. If, for example, you have a large backyard deck and brand new hardwood flooring, make sure these are mentioned prominently on the feature sheet.

Finally, be as flexible as you can be when scheduling viewings and open houses. Don’t forget that other listed properties in your neighbourhood draw in buyers, who may notice your home. It’s not uncommon for a buyer to view a property and then scout the neighbourhood. So, you want buyers to be able to see your home on short notice and at a convenient time for them. If there are several other nearby properties for sale, it means things are hot from a real estate point of view. You want to roll out the red carpet to buyers.

Looking for help selling your home quickly and for the best price? Call today!

When it’s time to replace a damaged floor in your house or condo, or simply cover one that has become tired-looking, you’ll want to consider all the options available. Factors to keep in mind include value and affordability, function and durability, decor and aesthetics, as well as the environment (both in your home and at large).

Wood still has the broadest appeal due to its appearance, longevity and wide variety of species. It also has ecological advantages, especially if it’s sourced from a sustainable harvest, and not treated with harmful toxins.

Other eco-friendly options to consider are reclaimed or repurposed wood, and renewable materials such as bamboo and cork. If you’re looking for eco-friendly options, man-made materials needn’t be discounted outright, as you can buy flooring made of recycled content such as laminated composite, glass, rubber and other synthetics, which can be recycled again when no longer useful.

A pantry is the ideal nook for storing extra food and other items ordinarily crammed into the kitchen. It’s also a nice design feature, as it harkens back to the days of country kitchens with spacious pantries.

You might be thinking, “That’s nice, but our home doesn’t have a pantry.” That’s okay. These days, there are many ways to create a pantry in your home – even if it doesn’t have one! Here are just a few suggestions:

• Add shelves to the laundry room. If you have the space, this is the ideal place to create a mini-pantry.

• Purchase a portable pantry. There are many available on the market. Some are even disguised as cabinets you’d expect to see in living and dining rooms.

• Purchase a movable pantry. These units are on wheels and can slide in and out of the kitchen with ease. Some are short enough to slide conveniently under a kitchen table.

• Make use of an unused closet. These are rare in most homes, but if you have a closet that isn’t being used, it can easily be converted into a pantry.

As you can see, there are plenty of options available. You don’t necessarily need to build an extra room!

When considering which of two or more competing offers to accept for your home, there is no doubt price plays a huge role. After all, if Offer #1 is $10,000 higher than Offer #2, that’s an enticing difference that puts thousands of extra dollars in your pocket. However, price isn’t the only thing you should think about when comparing multiple offers. There are other factors you need to consider as well. For example, what conditions are in the offer?

If Offer #1 is conditional upon the buyer selling his current property for a specific amount, then what if that doesn’t happen? You could end up with an offer that dies and be forced to list your home all over again. In that circumstance, accepting the lower offer may be your best move.

There’s also financing to consider. If you get an offer where the ability of the buyer to get financing is in doubt, that’s a red flag.

The closing date is another important factor. Offer #1 might propose a closing date that’s perfect for you, while Offer #2 is four weeks later. If you’ve already purchased another home, you might require a month of bridge financing if you accept Offer #2. There’s nothing wrong with that per say, but the costs and additional hassle are factors you should consider.

As you can see, assessing competing offers isn’t as easy as it looks. Fortunately, as your REALTOR®, I will guide you toward making the right decision.

Although we can’t predict where or when it will arrive, or how severe it will be, almost every region across the country should expect some form of extreme weather this winter. So, it would be wise to prepare for it in advance.

Start at the top – look for loose roofing materials and pay close attention to seals around vents, pipes and chimneys. Also make sure your rain gutters and downpipes are clear and firmly secured, with end spouts directing runoff well away from your foundation. Ensure your foundation is surrounded by a built-up surface that slopes away from the home, in order to prevent pooling.

Next, examine your exterior walls for weaknesses, and check your doors, windows and shutters to ensure caulking and latching are intact. Watch for the first signs of condensation within old insulated glass panes.

Finally, if you are uncertain, or can’t verify the condition of your home’s exterior yourself, hire an inspection company to do a thorough investigation – so you can rest easier this winter.