The warm summer months are upon us and most of us have finished spring cleaning and de-cluttering of our homes. However, did you know that there are steps that homeowners should take to protect their investment? The summer months is the best time to get those tasks completed.
Below is a list of items that should be tended too.
1. Clean and check range hood filters over stoves on a monthly basis.
2. If necessary, use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in the basement at or below 60%.
3. Check basement pipes for condensation or dripping.
4. Refill floor drain in the basement if it doesn’t have enough water.
5. Run water in fixtures that aren’t used on a regular basis (i.e. laundry tub, spare bathroom sink and tub or shower).
6. Deep clean carpets and vacuum the bathroom fan grille.
7. Clean the duct connected to the dryer by unplugging the dryer and disconnecting the duct connected to the dryer. Then take your vacuum and clean the duct.
8. Check windows, door hinges and garage door openers for smooth operation and lubricate if necessary.
9. Make sure water is not leaking into your house along the electrical conduits.
10. Check all paint and caulking.
11. Repair driveways and walkways as needed.
For more information on home maintenance or other free reports, contact Elli or leave a message on the blog.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
What to know when shopping for Condos!
For people who are in the market to own their own property but don’t necessarily want a house, a condo can be the next best investment. Since there are slew of new condos going up along the Toronto Waterfront and other exclusive areas (i.e. Young and Bloor) condos are proving to be prime real estate investments. However, before you pull out the pen and get ready to sign the deposit cheque, there are some things that you should know.
1. Ensure that it fits your needs – if you are going to be living in the condo instead of renting it out, you will need to make sure that the condo fits the style that you are looking for. Condos range from high to low rises, from townhouses to triplexes and knowing what you want to helps to narrow down the search for the right one.
2. Find out what costs are included – for instance, is parking extra? What about amenities like use of the party room or swimming pool? Are finishes included in the purchase price? Are utilities covered in the monthly condo fees (aka maintenance fees)? All of these are questions that you need to have answered. They can make or break a deal if you as a buyer assumes what is included in the purchase price of the condo without asking first.
3. Be aware of the rules and regulations – most condos have boards that regulate the condos and create by-laws associated with the upkeep and maintenance of the condominium complex. There can be restrictions on anything from pets to parking. The by-laws are designed to protect homeowners from living in a non-harmonious environment.
4. Find out about the boundaries – in a freehold, bare or vacant land condos the individual unit consists of the entire house, including exterior walls, roof and the land surrounding it. Before making a purchase, be sure to understand where your unit will begin and end.
Finding the right condo takes research but as with any home search it starts with what you want and what you would like to have. Familiarize yourself with the condo market by searching listings that are on MLS.ca and of course be sure to follow up with your agent for any properties that you may be interested in. You can also download a Condominium Buyers Guide from CHMC’s website.
For more information, leave a comment or email Elli.
1. Ensure that it fits your needs – if you are going to be living in the condo instead of renting it out, you will need to make sure that the condo fits the style that you are looking for. Condos range from high to low rises, from townhouses to triplexes and knowing what you want to helps to narrow down the search for the right one.
2. Find out what costs are included – for instance, is parking extra? What about amenities like use of the party room or swimming pool? Are finishes included in the purchase price? Are utilities covered in the monthly condo fees (aka maintenance fees)? All of these are questions that you need to have answered. They can make or break a deal if you as a buyer assumes what is included in the purchase price of the condo without asking first.
3. Be aware of the rules and regulations – most condos have boards that regulate the condos and create by-laws associated with the upkeep and maintenance of the condominium complex. There can be restrictions on anything from pets to parking. The by-laws are designed to protect homeowners from living in a non-harmonious environment.
4. Find out about the boundaries – in a freehold, bare or vacant land condos the individual unit consists of the entire house, including exterior walls, roof and the land surrounding it. Before making a purchase, be sure to understand where your unit will begin and end.
Finding the right condo takes research but as with any home search it starts with what you want and what you would like to have. Familiarize yourself with the condo market by searching listings that are on MLS.ca and of course be sure to follow up with your agent for any properties that you may be interested in. You can also download a Condominium Buyers Guide from CHMC’s website.
For more information, leave a comment or email Elli.
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