Category: Home Renovation

Home Renovation vs. Relocation: Planning Your Next Move as a Homeowner

Deciding whether to renovate your current home or relocate to a new one is a big question every Canadian homeowner faces at some point in their lives. Different situations and scenarios come into play, but there is more to consider than just the immediate costs and benefits. This blog article aims to help you navigate this crucial decision by exploring the factors you need to consider, the costs involved, and the pros and cons of each option.

Whether you are looking to save for your child’s future, plan for retirement, or simply find a more suitable living environment, this guide will provide you with the necessary insights to make an informed choice.

What Problem Are You Trying to Solve?

Identifying the core problem, you are facing will help you choose between moving and renovating. Here are some common issues:

Growing Family: If your family is expanding and you need more space, adding rooms or expanding your current home might be a viable solution. Alternatively, relocating to a larger home could be a more practical choice. Consider the cost of building an extra room versus the cost of a bigger house in your desired area.

Unsafe Environment: If your current neighbourhood has become unsafe, moving might be the better option. Safety is paramount, and no renovation can change the overall environment of your neighbourhood. Look into crime rates and community resources in potential new areas.

Kid’s Schooling and Other Factors: Proximity to good schools and other amenities might be a significant factor. If moving closer to better schools or facilities is a priority, relocating could be more beneficial. Research school rankings and community reviews to ensure a good fit for your family.

Maintenance and Upkeep Costs: If your current home requires frequent and costly maintenance, such as plumbing or electrical repairs, it might be more cost-effective to consider moving to a newer or better-maintained property. Renovations can sometimes address these issues, but ongoing maintenance costs should be factored into your decision.

Do You Love Your Current Neighbourhood?

If you have a strong attachment to your current neighbourhood, it is worth exploring nearby homes and comparing the costs of relocating versus renovating your current home. Staying in a beloved community can provide long-term emotional and social benefits that are invaluable. By checking local real estate listings, you can get a clearer idea of property values and available homes, helping you make a well-informed decision.

For personalized advice and assistance in navigating your options, consider reaching out to us, The Regan Team. With our expertise in Your City and Neighbourhood, we can provide tailored guidance to ensure you make the best choice for your family and lifestyle.

Is Your Current Home a Good Long-Term Investment? 

Determining whether your current home is a good long-term investment involves evaluating several key factors. Consider the overall condition and age of your property, as well as its location within the community. Assessing the potential for property value appreciation in your area is crucial. If the home values are rising steadily, renovating could enhance your home’s marketability and potentially yield a good return on investment over time.

Researching on the current real estate market trends and consulting with the best real estate professionals like The Regan Team can provide valuable insights to guide your decision-making process.

Dealing with Renovation Stress

Renovations can be stressful and disruptive. Consider whether you can handle the inconvenience and potential delays that come with home renovations. If not, moving might be a less stressful option. Speak with friends or family who have undergone renovations to get a realistic picture of what to expect.

What is Your Budget?

Both renovating and moving come with unexpected costs. It is essential to budget for these surprises to avoid financial strain.

Moving Costs

  • Local Moves: The average local move in Ontario will cost you $90-$120 per hour. Moving out of a 1-bedroom apartment will cost approximately $600-$800, while a 3-bedroom home will cost roughly $1,100-$1,500 for 3 to 4 hours.
  • Additional Costs: Extra moving crew members cost around $35 per hour. Packing services can range from $600-$900 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $1,500-$1,900 for an entire house. Peak season, fuel surcharges, and travel time can also add to the costs.

Renovation Costs

When it comes to renovations, surprise costs are almost a given. It is not easy to define an exact average cost for renovating a house, as it depends on many factors such as the age of the house, area, location, materials, and design.

In accordance to recent data, a low-end home renovation might range from $15,000 to $40,000, while a mid-range project could cost between $40,000 and $75,000. For those looking at high-end renovations, budgets typically start at $75,000 and can exceed $200,000, especially for luxury upgrades.

Regional differences also play a significant role in renovation costs. Ontario, for instance, tends to have higher average renovation expenses due to increased demand and higher living costs. Conversely, Quebec homeowners often invest more in outdoor enhancements like terraces and swimming pools.

Weigh the Pros and Cons

Once you have gathered all the critical information needed to aid in your decision, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of relocating and renovating a home.

Pros of relocating to a new home

  • Fresh Start: Moving provides an opportunity to start anew in a different environment, potentially offering a change of scenery and lifestyle.
  • Improved Amenities: You may gain access to better amenities and facilities that align more closely with your current needs and preferences.
  • Reduced Stress: Compared to living through a renovation, moving can be less stressful as you are not dealing with ongoing construction and disruptions in your daily life.

Cons of relocating to a new home

  • High Costs: Relocation involves significant expenses such as real estate agent fees, legal fees, moving costs, and potential renovations in the new home.
  • Emotional Attachment: Leaving behind a beloved home and neighbourhood can be emotionally challenging, especially if you have deep roots and connections in the community.
  • Selling Hassles: The process of selling your current home can be time-consuming and a bit challenge which require preparation, showings, and negotiations.

Pros of Renovating your home

  • Customization: Renovating allows you to tailor your current home to better fit your specific needs and lifestyle preferences, enhancing functionality and comfort.
  • Increase in Property Value: Strategic renovations can potentially increase the market value of your home, offering a return on investment over time.
  • Familiarity: You get to stay in your current neighbourhood, maintaining existing relationships and familiarity with local amenities.

Cons of Renovating

  • Cost Overruns: Renovations often come with unexpected costs and budget overruns, especially when dealing with older homes or unforeseen structural issues.
  • Disruption: Living through renovations can be disruptive to your daily life, affecting comfort, routine, and privacy during the construction process.
  • Incomplete Solutions: There is a possibility that renovations may not fully resolve all the issues or desires you have for your home, leading to potential dissatisfaction.

Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your long-term happiness and financial goals.

Consulting with the experienced professionals as The Regan Team, can provide invaluable insights to help you navigate this decision with confidence. Whether you choose to embrace new beginnings or transform your current home into your dream space, ensuring that your decision reflects your personal vision of comfort and lifestyle is paramount.

Budget Friendly Home Improvement Projects for Canadian Homes

Home improvement projects doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With a bit of creativity and some elbow grease, you can transform your home into a stylish and functional space. This blog offers unique, budget friendly with some DIY ideas tailored specifically for Canadian homes, helping you enhance your living environment without breaking the bank.

Let us dive in and discover how you can refresh your home with these creative solutions.

Repaint your home

One of the most impactful yet cost effective ways to refresh your home is with a fresh coat of paint. Start with your front door. A vibrant, eye-catching colour can dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal. Whether you choose a bold red, cheerful yellow, or classic navy, the right colour can make a lasting first impression.

For the interior, consider the effect of colour on space. Light pastel tones can make a small room feel more expansive and airier, perfect for smaller homes or condos. On the other hand, using brighter, more saturated colours in larger rooms can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with colours. It is an easy and inexpensive way to completely change the look and feel of your home.

Add greenery to the room

Adding plants to your living spaces can bring life and freshness to any room. Small planters on your porch, windowsills, or around the house can make a significant difference. Plants like succulents, snake plants are low maintenance and can thrive indoors.

For an added touch, consider hanging planters or a vertical garden to save space while adding greenery.

String lights to set the mood

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your home. String lights are a versatile and budget friendly option to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether draped across your patio, woven through your backyard trees, or hung in your living room, string lights add a magical touch to any space.

Outdoor Patio Ambiance

String lights are perfect for outdoor spaces. Draping them across your patio or balcony can instantly create a cozy, festive atmosphere. Use weatherproof string lights for durability and ensure they are securely fastened to withstand the elements.

Backyard Trees and Fences

For a whimsical outdoor space, weave string lights through backyard trees or along fences. This not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also provides subtle illumination for evening gatherings. Solar-powered string lights are particularly great for this purpose, as they are eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Indoor Cozy Corners

Bring the magic of string lights indoors to create cozy nooks and accent areas. Drape them around windows, along bookshelves, or across the ceiling to add a warm glow. Battery-operated string lights are ideal for indoor use as they eliminate the need for nearby power outlets and reduce tripping hazards.

Patio Arrangement

Revamping your patio doesn’t have to break the bank. A new outdoor rug can transform the look of your porch or patio. Choose a stylish design that complements your outdoor furniture.

Additionally, consider creating a custom tile design for a unique and personal touch. Tiles can be an affordable way to add colour and pattern to your outdoor space, making it a cozy spot for summer gatherings.

Peel and stick wallpaper

For a quick and temporary update, peel and stick wallpaper is a fantastic solution. This easy-to-apply wallpaper can add a burst of vibrant colour or pattern to any room without the commitment of traditional wallpaper.

Where to Use Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Accent Walls

Create a stunning focal point in any room by applying peel and stick wallpaper to one wall. This technique draws the eye and adds depth and interest without overwhelming the space. Popular choices include behind the bed in a bedroom, the wall behind the sofa in a living room, or a dining room feature wall.

Small Spaces

Peel and stick wallpaper is ideal for small, low-humidity spaces like powder rooms, closets, or entryways. These areas are perfect for experimenting with bold patterns and colours since they won’t dominate the entire room. A whimsical print in a powder room can make a big impression, while a stylish pattern in a closet can turn it into a boutique-like space.

Stair Risers

Add visual interest to your staircase by applying peel and stick wallpaper to the risers. This unexpected use of wallpaper can transform a mundane staircase into a striking design feature. Choose a pattern that complements the surrounding decor for a cohesive look.

Upgrade Lighting

Swapping out old bulbs for energy-efficient LED lighting can have a significant impact on both your home’s energy efficiency and overall illumination. For an ecofriendly and cost saving option, consider investing in solar lighting, especially if your home gets plenty of sunlight. Solar lights are perfect for outdoor areas like pathways, gardens, and patios, providing ambient light without increasing your electricity bill.

Built-In Bookshelves

Creating your own built-in bookshelf is a fantastic way to add both storage and value to your home. Unlike a detached bookshelf, a built-in unit can serve as a striking focal point in any room. Use high-quality wood to ensure durability and a polished finish. Whether you need extra storage for books, decor, or personal items, a built-in bookshelf is a practical and stylish solution.

Transform Your Overlooked Spaces

Don’t overlook the potential of small, unused areas in your home. Transforming these overlooked spaces can add both functionality and charm, maximizing every square inch of your living area.

Here are some creative ideas to make the most of these often-neglected spots.

Under the Stairs

Turn the space under your stairs into a cozy reading nook or mini-library with built-in shelves and a comfortable chair.

Alternatively, create a dedicated pet nook with a comfy bed and shelves for pet supplies. For wine enthusiasts, convert the area into a stylish wine rack with custom-built shelves and ambient lighting. Families can use this space as a fun kid’s play area with built-in storage for toys and a soft play mat.

Hallway Enhancements

Enhance your hallway by installing tall cabinets or shelves along the wall to store coats, shoes, and everyday items. Alternatively, create a stunning gallery wall with family photos and artwork in stylish frames, turning a long hallway into an engaging visual journey.

Closet Conversions

Transform an unused closet into a compact home office by adding a desk, shelves for storage, and proper lighting. If you enjoy crafting or have a hobby, turn the closet into a craft station with a work surface, storage bins, and pegboards for tools and supplies.

Improving your home doesn’t have to be expensive. With these budget friendly ideas, you can enhance your living space while adding personal touches that reflect your style and creativity. From painting and lighting to innovative use of small spaces, there are countless ways to make your Canadian home more beautiful!

Grab your tools, unleash your creativity, and start transforming your home today!

Happy DIY-ing and creating your perfect space!

Increase Your Home Value With The Top Remodelling Ideas

Are you looking to add value to your home and boost your real estate investment?

Remodelling and renovating your property can significantly increase its value, allowing you to enjoy a better return on your investment. In this article, we will explore a variety of expert ideas and tips on how you can enhance your home value through strategic improvements. Whether you’re planning to sell your home in the near future or simply want to maximize its potential, these remodelling projects will help you achieve your goals.

Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter!

Curb appeal plays a vital role in attracting potential buyers or raising your home value. Simple enhancements like fresh exterior paint, landscaping, and an inviting front entry can drastically improve the overall appeal of your property. Consider installing outdoor lighting, a new front door, or adding a welcoming touch with beautiful flowers.

Upgrade Your Kitchen

Sprucing up your kitchen can make a big difference in your home’s vibe, especially when it comes to Real Estate in Canada and selling your place.

Go for designs that never go out of style and use high-quality materials. This way, your kitchen will stay appealing for a long time. When it comes to selling your home, having a modern and stylish kitchen can really catch the eye of potential buyers in the busy world of Canadian home sales.

Revamp Your Bathroom

When it comes to boosting your home’s value in the world of real estate in Canada and home sales, giving your bathroom a makeover is a golden ticket.

Start by upgrading your fixtures. Adding energy-efficient features not only helps the planet but also adds a modern touch that savvy homebuyers appreciate.

In addition, enhancing overall aesthetic appeal is the key. Consider some fancy additions like a walk-in shower, a freestanding bathtub, or double sinks for that touch of luxury. Ensure you have sufficient storage space for all items and adequate lighting to maintain a well-lit and presentable atmosphere.

Create functional living spaces

In the realm of real estate Canada, where home value is a crucial factor in the home investment landscape, open floor plans are highly sought after. It evokes a feeling of expansiveness and encourages social interaction, making it a desirable feature for potential buyers.

Evaluate the current layout of your home and contemplate the removal of non-load-bearing walls to craft a more open and adaptable living space. According to a recent survey, 85% populace prefer an open design between the kitchen and dining room, 79% favour an open arrangement between the family room and kitchen, and 70% like an open layout between the family room and dining room.

This strategic adjustment has the potential to boost the value of your property, positioning it as a modern and inviting living space.

Embrace Energy Efficiency

Incorporating energy-efficient features into your home not only reduces its environmental impact but also adds home value. Install energy-saving windows, insulation, and programmable thermostats to enhance energy efficiency. Solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and LED lighting are other smart investments that potential buyers and appraisers highly value.

Increase storage options

When delving into home investment, prioritizing storage becomes the key.

Homebuyers frequently prioritize ample storage space, so consider elevating your home’s storage options. Integrate built-in shelves, walk-in closets, or innovative storage solutions to cater to this demand. Don’t overlook untapped areas like basements and attics – these can be transformed into valuable additional storage spaces. The inclusion of adequate storage not only enhances your home value but also adds to its overall appeal, making it more enticing to potential buyers.

Update Flooring and Finishes

Outdated flooring and finishes can make your home feel tired and unappealing. Consider replacing worn-out carpets with hardwood or laminate flooring, which tends to be more desirable in the real estate market. Updating light fixtures, door handles, and faucets can also create a more modern and cohesive look.

By trying out these remodelling ideas, you are not just giving your home a value boost but making it super attractive to potential buyers. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your budget, stay in the loop with local real estate trends, and match your changes with what your future homeowners would love.

With these thoughtful improvements and a dash of good design, you are on track to turning your place into a real gem of the real estate in Canada.

2024 Home Decor Trends: A Palette of Elegance and Innovation

Are you looking to refresh your living space and stay ahead of the curve in interior trends? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the hottest colour trends that await us in 2024, providing you with inspiration and fresh home decor ideas to elevate your space.

The world of colour trends is ever-evolving, and staying up-to-date with the current home decor is essential for creating an aesthetically pleasing environment.

In this exploration of 2024’s hottest colour trends, we delve into the transformative power of Benjamin Moore Blue Nova CC-860, the cozy allure of Sunrise Hues, and the opulent charm of Regent Green 2136-20. Discover how these colours can elevate your interiors, offering inspiration and fresh ideas to revitalize your home.

Blue Nova CC-860: A Captivating Essence

2024 introduces Benjamin Moore Blue Nova CC-860 as the dominant and inspiring colour, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with a touch of futuristic allure.

Ideal for walls and ceilings, this captivating hue becomes a striking focal point on the interior design, adding sophistication and depth to any room. Here are some popular home decor ideas to consider:

Biophilic Design

Bringing the outdoors in, has become a prevalent trend in interior design. By combining Blue Nova CC-860 with natural elements, such as wooden furniture, live plants, and stone accents, you can create a space that promotes peace and serenity.

When paired with popular decor trends such as Biophilic Design, Minimalism, or Sustainable Design, Benjamin Moore Blue Nova CC-860 brings a cohesive and stylish atmosphere to your living space.

Minimalism

Minimalistic interior design focusing on clean lines, functionality, and a clutter-free environment. Blue Nova CC-860 complements this trend by adding a touch of depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Sustainable Design

With environmental consciousness on the rise, sustainable design has become a prominent trend in the interior decoration. By incorporating Blue Nova CC-860 into sustainable materials like recycled glass or eco-friendly fabrics, you can contribute to a greener future while enjoying a stylish living space.

Vibrant Sunrise Hue: Warmth and Subtle

If you prefer a more subtle approach, accentuate the colour trend with Sunrise Hues through furniture and accessories. Add throw pillows in shades of pink, yellow, or deep oranges to your sofas or chairs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Incorporate rugs and curtains in warm tones to tie the whole color scheme together.

To complete the look, select home decor items that complement the Sunrise Hues colour scheme. Consider adding artwork, such as paintings or prints, featuring landscapes or abstract designs in similar warm tones. Find interior decoration items like vases, candles, or tableware that incorporate hints of sunset-inspired colours to tie everything together seamlessly.

Regent Green 2136-20: Versatility

Benjamin Moore Regent Green 2136-20, a rich and deep shade of green, adds a touch of opulence to any space. Its lush undertones create a soothing ambience and evoke a sense of connection with nature. This hue effortlessly reflects the current home decor trend of bringing the outdoors inside, fostering a serene and calming environment.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Regent Green 2136-20 is its versatility. This enchanting shade seamlessly complements a variety of interior design styles, from modern and contemporary to traditional and eclectic.

Regal comfort

Introduce Benjamin Moore Regent Green 2136-20 through furniture pieces like couches, armchairs, or ottomans. These statement pieces will not only enhance your room’s color palette but also provide a cozy and inviting seating area.

Kitchen opulence

For those looking to refresh the kitchen with the perfect colour trend, consider painting your cabinets with Regent Green 2136-20. This bold choice will instantly elevate the heart of your home and create a unique, eye-catching space.

Bathroom oasis

Transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat by incorporating Benjamin Moore Regent Green 2136-20 in your tiles, vanity, or wall paint. This sophisticated decor trend will bring a touch of spa-like serenity to your daily routines.

Implementation tips

When incorporating these colour trends, consider factors like existing furnishings, lighting conditions, and overall theme. Experiment with combinations and utilize tools for visualization.

Beyond wall paints, integrate colours through furniture, textiles, artwork, and accessories. Your home decor journey is an opportunity for creative expression, allowing you to infuse your unique style into every detail.

As you embark on your 2024 home decor journey, let the latest colour trends of Benjamin Moore breathe new life into your living spaces. Whether opting for serene tones, bold jewel hues, or playful pops of color, these trends offer inspiration to design a stylish sanctuary.

Remember, it’s an individual taste that should shine through, transforming your home into a haven you’ll truly adore. Embrace the palette of elegance and innovation, and let the unique personality flourish in your stylishly revamped living spaces!

The Interior Design Trends of 2024: How to Stay Ahead

Design is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, influenced by cultural shifts, technology advancements, and changing preferences. Staying ahead of the curve in interior decoration is crucial in maximizing popularity.

Interiors convey the tale of your life, showcasing the way you live and the things that hold significance to you. The world is ready for new designs and ideas. The focus is on making homes more comfortable, adding more colours, and using playful decorations. Whether you’re making small changes, planning a big renovation, or just redecorating a room this year, here are the top interior design trends for 2024.

Bold Minimalism

In today’s fast-paced world, an interior design that exudes clarity and simplicity can provide a refreshing oasis, free of visual clutter. Bold minimalism achieves this by using clean lines, simple shapes, and a minimal color palette.

Choosing bold and impactful fonts enhances the message you want to convey. Whether it’s a restaurant menu, a retail environment, or a workspace, the right use of interior design typography can captivate and guide the observer’s attention.

When it comes to incorporating bold minimalism into your space, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While the design trend focuses on simplicity, it doesn’t mean sacrificing personality or warmth. By thoughtfully selecting statement pieces, textures, and materials, you can infuse your space with a touch of uniqueness, creating an inviting and harmonious environment.

Suprematism style interior design of modern living room with abstract geometric colorful shapes. Created with generative AI technology.

Emphasizing Visual Storytelling

Every space has the potential to tell a story. From a cozy reading nook that transports you to far-off lands to a vibrant kitchen that energizes the senses, each room offers an opportunity to create a unique narrative. By carefully curating elements that align with your desired story, you can transform your home into a personal sanctuary that resonates with your essence.

Visual storytelling goes beyond the choice of color palettes and furniture arrangements in the interior decoration. It encompasses a holistic approach of design trend that integrates various elements, such as textures, accessories, and lighting, to create a harmonious composition. These components work together to convey a specific ambiance, evoke emotions, and communicate a thoughtful narrative.

Playful Design

Injecting fun into interior decoration, playful design elements like animated gifs, interactive content, and quirky illustrations ensure surprise and delight to the audience. Think hanging chairs in the living room, swings in the bedroom, or a slide connecting different levels of your home. These unique additions not only serve a functional purpose but also encourage a sense of playfulness and exploration. Combining functionality with fun is the essence of modern interior design.

Another aspect of playful design is the fusion of different textures and materials. Mixing and matching materials such as wood, metal, glass, and fabric give your home a visually interesting and tactile appeal.

Prominent Photography

While illustrations are prominent, the timeless power of photography is not forgotten. High-quality, prominent photography is expected to make a comeback, telling stories, evoking emotions, and leaving lasting impressions. Original photography or inventive ways to repurpose existing images will become top interior design trend, conveying authenticity and capturing attention.

Bold and Attention Grabbing

Grow Sustainable

As environmental consciousness grows, sustainable materials take center stage in interior design. From recycled furniture to eco-friendly flooring options, incorporating sustainable elements not only enhances your aesthetic but also contributes to a better planet.

Mixed Metal Accents

Say goodbye to matching metal finishes. In 2024, design enthusiasts embrace the beauty of mixed metal accents. Combining gold, silver, and bronze creates a harmonious blend of elegance and eclecticism, breathing new life into any space.

Multi-Functional Spaces

Flexibility is key in 2024’s interior design trends. Create multi-functional spaces that adapt to your needs, allowing rooms to serve multiple purposes. Convertible furniture, such as modular sofas and collapsible tables, provide clever solutions for smaller homes.

As we explore the latest top interior design trends for 2024, keep in mind the aim is to craft a space that mirrors your personality and dreams. Infuse a daring touch of simplicity, tell stories visually, embrace playful designs, consider sustainability, mix in metallic accents, and create versatile space to turn your home or work area into a sanctuary that truly reflects who you are.

Stay ahead, try out fresh ideas, and let your creativity sparkle. Have fun designing!

Where to Invest in a Fresh Coat of Paint

f you are thinking of selling your home, you may want to consider a fresh coat of paint. Paint goes a long way in transforming a home from mundane to inspiring and improving its saleability along the way! It’s proven that (done correctly) your home will sell for more money in fewer days on the market.

When it comes to a fresh coat of paint, it’s not just the walls that could use it. Try these ideas on for size:

Exterior Brick or Siding

Colour is as important to your home’s exterior as its interior. But exterior colour is usually applied in the form of siding, trim and roofing—a far more permanent investment than wall paint or accessories. With a little colour know-how, you can pick the perfect colour scheme for your home’s exterior, one that reflects your tastes and your home’s architectural style. Try painting brick or stucco a more modern colour to give your home a low-cost makeover.

Approximate Cost: $1,500-$3,000

Front Door and Mailbox

Sometimes, all you need to do is complete a small, inexpensive update to fall in love with your home all over again. By painting an exterior door a vibrant colour, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and it’s easy to change for future updates or owners.

Approximate Cost: $100

Ceilings and Trim Work

Often painted white. Don’t forget baseboards, crown mouldings and the trim around windows and doors.

Approximate Cost: $500

Painted Fireplaces

Painting a fireplace can be a fun project when you want to change the look of your fireplace area. It can add a fresh new look to your home and can make the overall room more inviting for friends and family.

Approximate Cost: $300-$500

Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets

With the high cost of re-facing or replacing faded or dated kitchen cabinets, painting them is a great option. Done correctly, this can make a dramatic difference to one of the most used rooms in a house.

Approximate Cost: $400-$600

Stair Banisters and Spindles

A coat of white paint to the spindles and black on the banister adds life to a tired and dated staircase. Consider adding a carpet runner to really make it stand out.

Approximate Cost: $500-$1,000

Walls

Changing the colour scheme in a room is the fastest and least expensive decorating touch on the market. It enhances the room’s appeal and, simply put, is the best bang for your buck.

Approximate Cost: $300-$500

That Old Piece of Furniture

Sometimes old furniture is a necessity. Sometimes it’s just fun. Older pieces can make a new style statement, provide economical storage and extra seating or continue a family tradition. Add freshness, style and charm to old furniture with new paint. Consider accenting it with new hardware.

Approximate Cost: $75

source: www.livelovediy.com/2012/04/how-to-paint-trim.html

Affordable Do It Yourself Home Improvement

Whether you’re looking at selling your home or just want an inexpensive burst of life injected into your space, we have compiled some ideas to help you.

Thanks to our friends at Paintscapes, you can save on Benjamin Moore products to make your project not only come to life but save you some money along the way.

Download a free PDF of our Exclusive Offer and Our Affordable Do It Yourself Home Improvement guidelines.

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House Maintenance: The Top 3 Things To Do Before You Sell

Sometimes the best things in life are free. One of them is not owning a home, because there are costs to home ownership.

Owning a home—let alone purchasing one—is not cheap, but is definitely the goal of many people.

If you’re a home seller, there are a few things you just cannot afford to neglect. If you do the following, selling a house will be easier and will pay a handsome dividend. And your bank account will thank you for it.

These tips will also help in selling the home faster, which means you can trade time for time. The following are low-cost suggestions that should be considered in preparing your home for sale.

1.Routine home maintenance—Clean Up—get your crap outta there. Have you ever checked into a nice hotel? A really nice one?In your mind’s eye, walk into the bathroom… what do you see?

What do you see when you walk into the bedroom area? Exactly! You don’t see clothes everywhere. The bed is neatly made and there are no foreign objects lying around on the bedside table.

The same goes for the washroom, the laundry room and just about every other part of the house a buyer is sure to venture into.

Routine home maintenance is important in every aspect of the house. That includes everything from putting your clothes away to home painting.

2. Organize—Blame MTV’s Cribs or Million Dollar Agent—yes, buyers will look in your fridge, even in your kitchen cupboards.

So, why does it matter to you if the cupboards are organized? Because we’re trying to make a lasting impression on the buyer. We want them being wowed with every facet of your home.

We want them to feel confident that the current owner has cared for this home beyond expectations. And we ultimately want the buyer to make us an offer that we can’t refuse

People that buy and sell somewhat frequently understand this.

3. Bang for your buck—the streets of Beverly Hills are lined with mansions. Mansions worth a lot of money—millions upon millions of dollars.

Do you know what else lines the streets of Beverly hills? Perfect boulevards. Manicured grass and properly pruned trees. Fresh flowers and no garbage and debris.

Make the appearance of your home look like its own version of Beverly Hills and you’ll be one step closer to being on a real estate TV show in no time.

Consider painting kitchen cabinets. Bathroom cabinets, too. Look to Google for commercial painting services or your local real estate agent for a recommendation.

Look on Realtor.ca and MLS to see what other homes for sale look like. Tim Allen on Home Improvement also knows best. Make sure to hire a professional if you touch anything like electrical or plumbing.

A good sellers agent can make recommendations based on local market conditions. Recommend painting companies and handyperson services. Quality paints or cheap and cheerful can be decided upon with a consultation.

If your home needs a paint job, or even a new sump pump, a real estate brokerage should be able to recommend what is important to home buyers.

These small improvements affect what a home is worth. After all, aren’t you trying to sell for the most amount of money?

The Big Mistake

If you’re a home seller and you were preparing to get your house ready for Realtor.ca and MLS, be careful where you invest your money.

There are certain aspects of a home that have proven to yield a higher return on investment. For example, home renovations like a new kitchen or bathroom appeal to many buyers as they don’t have to go through the renovation process after they move in.

Nowadays, putting in a swimming pool and having a clean yard goes a long way. With more people moving to the suburbs swimming pools are more popular than ever.

However, finishing basements and doing an addition for the purposes of selling are probably not money well spent. It’s important to invest money into your home that adds to its curb appeal and overall first impression.

1 + 1 does not equal 2 in a real estate transaction. Before spending significant money on your home it is recommended to consult with your local real estate brokerage. Real estate agents are in and out of many homes and work with fires. This gives them first-hand knowledge of buyer trends.

Cleaning up that garage and removing Christmas lights from months ago shows signs of pride of ownership. It all makes a difference in the end as buyers base their purchasing decisions on how they feel.

If a home shows that it is cared for and loved, the chances of a buyer making an offer earlier in the listing—and for more money—increase. It’s important to keep up with home maintenance and home repairs.

If you’re unsure of the condition of your home, consider hiring a home inspector. Having a home inspection done is like having home insurance. It safeguards you against any surprises at a later date.

Home styling and home decor go a long way as well. A properly styled home can affect home prices. Home staging and decluttering go a long way.

General home maintenance, like keeping gutters clean of debris and water away from foundations impresses upon the buyer that the home is well maintained. It also helps with personal liability should the worst happen and you have to call your insurance company.

Advice In A Nutshell

  • Consult with a local real estate agent who knows what buyers are looking for in your marketplace
  • Pay attention to the small details, like organizing cupboards and decluttering
  • Home improvements, such as painting old kitchen cupboards yield a tremendous result in the form of a higher sale price
  • Think of your home like a fancy hotel. It’s how buyers see all that matters when they walk through your home.