Buying & Selling
LIGHTS, camera, action!
In these days of energy conserving light bulbs and soaring hydro prices, it’s hard to put lighting at the top of your priority list. The reality is, though, that really good lighting makes a room just as surely as poor lighting breaks it. Obviously, taking advantage of natural light is always key. But many of… Read More >>
Finding Your Neighbourhood
Deciding on the right neighbourhood is perhaps the most daunting decision any home buyer faces. And it is equally as important for first time buyers as it is the second, or even last time around. Why? Because your neighbourhood dictates not only where you will live, but how you will live. Take the time to… Read More >>
Home Showing Checklist
Much has been said and written about staging your home. There are numerous television shows and many experts out there. And sometimes an expert is required. It is best to consult us for specifics, but below is a preliminary list. It’s hard to think of everything on your own! Less is better. Remove any clutter,… Read More >>
What is a Co-Op?
We have plenty of condominiums in Ottawa but only a handful of co-ops, so they raise many questions for buyers. Firstly, it is important to know that co-ops exist in large numbers in many cities across Canada and the United States, as well as in many other countries. In a co-op, the corporation owns the… Read More >>
Mortgages for Self-Employed Buyers
In general, for many years, most of the banks and lenders have had in place programs to approve clients that are “business for self” under what they call “stated income” guidelines. Typically banks and lenders use line 150 on the Notice of Assessment’s as proof of income for qualifying purposes on a mortgage. Essentially under… Read More >>
Getting to Know Your Community
Whether you have just settled into a new neighbourhood, are exploring the options for a move, or have your own reasons for getting more involved in your community, it can be difficult to know where best to turn first. Your neighbourhood community center is a great place to start. Enroll in one of the programs… Read More >>
Small Spaces – Getting Organized
Clothing protruding from each and every closet? Scarves, hats and mitts decorating hallway corners? Boots and shoes completely mixed up, each one dripping on someone else’s? Pots and pans stored in your oven? Sheets and towels perpetually piled atop the washing machine? If any of this sounds familiar, you probably live in a downtown home… Read More >>
Don’t Forget to Look At the Trees!
When buying a home, especially when you’re looking in established urban neighbourhoods, it’s really important to look at the property for more than just the house. Trees are beautiful in an urban landscape and in Ottawa we’re really lucky to have a great variety of majestic ones. When considering a property to purchase, take a… Read More >>
Finding the Right School
All schools are not created equal. But then again, neither are children! The key to making the right choices for your child’s education is to consider both the institution itself and the character of your child to make sure the two mesh. Attending the school information sessions is a great way to start, especially if… Read More >>
