Posts by curiousprojects

An Economist’s Letter to Millennials Who Can’t (Yet) Buy a Home

December 30, 2015 | Comments Off

This post from Jonathan Smoke, chief economist at realtor.com, explains what Millenials can do to help themselves along the path to home ownership. For example, a high debt burden will restrict their ability to qualify for a mortgage, and the amount they can get, so they need to limit their total debt payments (student loans, credit cards, car loans, etc.) to less than 15% of their income. Smoke also covers the importance of improving their credit score, saving as much as they can for a down payment and creating an emergency fund for unexpected bills. To read more click here.
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5 Questions to Ask Before Replacing Your Roof

December 29, 2015 | Comments Off

Most of us have little or no experience with re-roofing, so this post by home reno expert Bob Vila is a valuable guide to the questions a homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer. First, ask for an estimate that is comprehensive enough (permits, inspections, materials, labour, contingency) to establish a firm budget. Discuss the proposal in detail with the contractor. Find out what materials are being used and get the specifications in writing. Avoid cheaper, low quality materials, especially the shingles, because sub-standard materials reduce a roof’s life expectancy costing you more over the long term.
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The 3 Most Common Reasons a Home Inspection Kills a Deal

December 28, 2015 | Comments Off

In this Redfin.com post, home inspector Dylan Chalk underscores the importance of a home inspection by identifying how they can prevent a potential sale. The most common reason is the home is not what it appears to be, especially in the case of a “flipped home”, one purchased and updated with the intention of making as much profit as possible. The inspection reveals there are more repairs and updates than the buyer expected. Problems with the core systems of a “fixer” house (foundation, frame, roofline, floor plan, drainage and access) add cost and complexity to the new homeowner’s projected
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Reno Investments Providing the Highest Returns

December 27, 2015 | Comments Off

This detailed Home Inspection Network post provides useful data to anyone who is considering a home renovation. Author Bev Siciliano begins by explaining what many do not realize – we might not fully recoup our investment when the home is sold. For that reason alone, home renovations should be analyzed individually to ensure we get the highest return on investment (ROI). Generally, renovations that provide the best return on resale are superficial upgrades, like painting and decorating, with limited capital outlay and maximum impact. According to the Appraisal Institute of Canada’s latest Home Renovation Survey, renovations with the
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What You Need to Do When Saying Goodbye to Your Home

December 26, 2015 | Comments Off

Although you’re excited about moving, there are easy ways to reduce the ache you feel when thinking about leaving the old abode. According to this Realtor.com post by Lisa Davis you could throw a going away party with the neighbours who shared your journey over the years. Toast your soon-to-be former residence. Leave a reminder of your presence for future generations like a signature on a rafter in the attic. To read more click here. Source: Blog
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The Do’s and Dont’s of Basement Storage

December 25, 2015 | Comments Off

This article from Bob Vila gives eight handy tips to consider when using your basement for storage. The suggestions include taking advantage of vertical space by building up and not out, using open shelves for frequently-used items and built-in cabinets to conceal toys or cleaning supplies, storing off-season gear in sealed bins to protect from moisture and dust, using a pulley-hoist to store heavy or bulky items from the ceiling, protecting tools stored in the open with a coating of machine oil to prevent rust and running a humidifier in the basement to suck moisture from the air and
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Is It Time to Downsize? Ask Yourself These 4 Questions First

December 24, 2015 | Comments Off

If you’ve reached the time of life where you are contemplating downsizing your home, the first question to ask, according to this Realto.com post, is what kind of lifestyle do you want after downsizing? By defining how you want to live, you can narrow your search and focus on housing that will meet those requirements. For example, if you want to escape the bluster of winter and relax on a beach, local climate conditions and geography will drive your hunt. Or, if you like social activities, you would seek active adult communities where you can interact with like-minded
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What’s the best property type for your first home?

December 23, 2015 | Comments Off

Inexperience can cause first time home buyers to be confused by the multitude of available options. This post by Caroline James is an excellent introduction to the advantages and disadvantages of five popular property choices: a large detached house on a suburban block, a small home on a sub-divided lot, a townhouse, an apartment in a small block and an apartment in a high rise block. To read more click here. The post What’s the best property type for your first home? appeared first on Team Realty. Source: Blog
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8 Mistakes That Could Screw Up Your Home Sale

December 22, 2015 | Comments Off

Usually we hear “buyer beware”, but real estate author Michael Corbett advises sellers to beware and gives 8 reasons why in this trulia.com post. Always work with professional help, including a real estate agent. Their expertise, experience, neighbourhood knowledge and resources will help you plot a course through the selling process. Overpricing is a temptation to be avoided since most buyers are savvy and have the advice of an agent. Ensure that you use high quality photos because 90% of buyers shop for home online. Complete repairs like leaky faucets before listing your home to avoid negotiations over
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5 tips for eco-friendly renovations

December 21, 2015 | Comments Off

If you are renovating, you should consider the green strategies suggested in this realestate.com post by Danielle King. For example, add insulation to the roof and external walls and you could save 25% on energy costs. Replace inefficient windows or add window film since up to 40% of your heating can be lost through windows in winter. Energy efficient appliances, LED lighting and solar panels will also contribute savings, while protecting the environment. Implement water collection techniques to use rainwater for toilets and the garden. Include water efficient faucets and showerheads. Add high-flow taps that make baths and
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Eric Ritterrath