(NC) As we spend more time at home during the pandemic, we’re thinking about our spaces differently so we can make the most of them. Reinvention can help you extend your functional square footage and ensure your home keeps up with your evolving needs. Here are some inspiring ideas to try: 

Rethink your outdoors
We’ve all fallen in love with spending time outside, as it’s a safer way of seeing friends and family separate from our household. But as the temperature dips, it’s time to get creative to keep these get-togethers going. You can continue to enjoy your backyard with an outdoor fire-pit or heating lamp. Your garage can function as a man cave with a well-loved couch and foosball table, while a screened-in porch can make the perfect sunroom when

(NC) Home makeovers and repairs are on the rise, as we try to make our spaces more livable and functional. But even if you prefer to DIY most projects, some inevitably require the help of a professional. Finding a reliable contractor is where you can run into trouble, as there are many contractor scams in the industry.  

“While on the ground supporting our customers, some have told us that they have been approached by contractors going door-to-door to offer repair services with deals that seem too good to be true,” explains Bryant Vernon, Chief Claims Officer at Aviva Canada. “It’s important for everyone to protect themselves against contractors who may be taking advantage of homeowners especially after a severe weather event.” 

Here are some of the

(NC) With the rising number of features found in modern laundry machines, from smart dispensers to Wi-Fi, it’s easy to get lost in all the bells and whistles. But features aside, the most important decision you’ll make when buying a new laundry pair is whether to go front or top load.  

To help you choose the best one for your lifestyle, check out three key differentiators: 

1. The design of your laundry room. If you’re planning to do a straight swap from current to new appliances, it might be easiest to stick with the format you already have since it’s likely the space is set up for that style of machine. If you’re remodelling or building a new laundry room, you have more freedom. Think about the best way to use the space you have. Do you have the

(NC) Many of us are feeling anxious and stressed lately as the pandemic continues to take a toll. To combat this, take refuge in the safety and comfort of home. With colder weather approaching, now is the perfect time to make sure it’s a cozy, inviting space to enjoy.

Decorate your interiors
Never underestimate the impact of a few strategically placed textiles and decorative elements. For example, drape a plaid or Sherpa throw on the back of your couch or the edge of your bed, and sprinkle some fuzzy pillows on armchairs. An area rug can instantly make any room feel warmer and adds style and personality – you can even try one in your kitchen or bathroom. Experiment with fun textures, like a rich velvet or woolly cable knit.

Reinvent your basement

(NC) Today, many families are focused on improving their homes instead of spending money on vacations and entertainment outside. With autumn as your last major chance to renovate before the winter, here are some of the best projects to tackle now for maximum enjoyment of your space.

Upgrade your kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of your home, and where you’ll be spending lots of time cooking for the holidays and entertaining your small social circle. So, give it a facelift to make sure it’s a bright and welcoming environment. A great DIY project is painting the cabinets in a bold or warm shade and updating the hardware in a metallic neutral. You can also invest in sleek, energy-efficient appliances for a clean, modern aesthetic and get fresh seasonal

After spending a lot more time around the house, many homeowners have caught the home improvement bug. And while keeping up with home maintenance will guarantee payback when it comes time to sell your home, there are some finer details to consider with the ongoing pandemic.

1. Change your air filters. COVID-19 has renewed our awareness of just how important healthy air is inside our homes. Changing your air filters is an effective way to improve air and heat circulation in your home and cut down on allergens.
2. Check your home warranties. Fall is an ideal time to check on the warranties for your furnace or appliances and schedule any required maintenance before things go awry. 
3. Hire a professional if necessary. Some tasks – like cleaning your

With fall approaching, you’ll soon be able to enjoy the spectacular colours of the season and the sounds of leaves crunching under your feet.

To keep your property looking nice during this time and prepare it for the winter, our friends at Aviva Insurance suggest the following fall ‘to-do’ list:

Leaf disposal: Collect leaves in approved bags for collection or take them to assigned dumping areas. Do not burn leaves – this is illegal in most urban areas and can cause home fires.

Roof: Consider having your roof checked by a professional if you suspect any wear and tear or notice missing shingles. Both can severely affect a roof’s effectiveness. Also, make sure your roof and eaves troughs are clear of leaves and debris.

Pipes: Help prevent

Doug Carlyle became a REALTOR® because he loves helping people. He has worked in the housing industry for his entire life; helping people design, build, and improve their homes and lifestyle. Doug enjoys working with First Time Buyers, New Canadians, and people looking for investment or income properties.

Doug graduated from NAIT Construction Engineering program and with his experience building, renovating, and investigating homes it gives him a strong understanding of what makes a property sound. He has been involved in the construction of close to 200 homes ranging from row houses, starter homes, and executive custom homes.

When Doug isn’t working he loves spending time outdoors with his son, enjoying hiking in Jasper and Banff or sitting

(NC) Fall usually brings the excitement of a new routine, new school year, extracurricular activities and the cool weather we’re all likely craving after summer heat waves. While things may look a little different this year as we settle into our new normal, the dreaded cold and flu season will be upon us before we know it.

Making a few small lifestyle changes, like adding plenty of immune-boosting foods, can go a long way in helping us stay ahead of the flu. These simple steps from Jacklyn Villeneuve, registered dietitian at Loblaws, can help us reduce our chances of getting the flu and spreading it to others.

1. Fill up half your plate with produce. We know that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is beneficial for so many reasons, but did

(NC) From family meals to intimate gatherings with friends, the right ambiance can instantly elevate any occasion. To create a warm, welcoming space, start by choosing colours that invite you and your guests to the table.

Drawing from a palette inspired by fall’s warm hues and turning leaves, you can make your dining space the best seat in the house. Here, Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore colour and design expert, shares her professional advice to help you create memorable dining moments at home.

Bring the restaurant experience home. Thoughtfully pair the colours in your dining space with food. “To emphasize the art behind every dish, shades of red are always a great choice,” says Grech. “Favourite reds from Benjamin Moore such as Rosy Apple