Winter is notorious for giving us a spike in energy costs, so this is a perfect time to take a closer look at our usage to see if we can reduce our household running costs before spring arrives. Heaters and coolers are the greatest energy hogs, of course. Research suggests heating accounts for 38% of…
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Our long summer evenings are a wonderful time to be outdoors; so long as you’re not driven back inside by the pesky, biting insects that descend on us the moment the sun goes down. Being able to ward off insects is essential for an enjoyable evening on the patio. No one likes beating a retreat…
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As the summer sun shines brightly, your outdoor space transforms into an extension of your home – a place to relax, entertain and create lasting memories. Choosing the right patio furniture will enhance your lifestyle and help add value to your property. As your local agents, we know the ability to entertain guests is one…
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When it comes to inspecting a property, many potential buyers may wonder whether it’s appropriate to remove their shoes or leave them on. The answer to this question depends on various factors, including cultural norms, personal preferences, and the condition of the property. In some cultures, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a…
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With summer in full swing, your lawn mower may be feeling the heat of a tough workload. You wouldn’t be alone in worrying about whether the mower will fire up one more time to trim grass that’s growing quickly in the mix of heat and moisture. If you’re tempted to put yours into the shop…
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As Canadian owners enjoyed a first interest rate that turned the tide on 20-year-high loan costs, tenants continue to deal with rising costs. A new report claims our average rent has jumped the $2,200 barrier for the first time. It comes as the Bank of Canada reduced the benchmark cash rate from from 5% to…
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The cut in the interest rate at the beginning of June has been welcomed by homeowners and those trying to break into the market. It wasn’t borrowers’ complaints who forced the Bank of Canada (BoC) to act, but the fact we achieved an inflation rate within the target band of 2-3%. Our Consumer Price Index…
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As young Canadians continue to grapple with property prices that spiked during the pandemic, a new survey has found first-time buyers are getting more help than ever from their parents. Almost a third of first-home buyers have already received financial assistance from family members this year, according to a survey by the Canadian Imperial Bank…
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In a sign we’re experiencing a calm before the storm, new data shows the Canadian property market is edging slightly down as buyers welcome a reduction in our 20-year-high interest rate. While the Bank of Canada’s 0.25% interest rate reduction will not substantially move the market, the BoC’s declared intention to reduce mortgage costs has…
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Predictions of a high-risk fire season for this summer have come from the Ministry of Emergency Preparedness. Areas that continue to suffer from drought, such as northwestern Alberta, northeastern British Columbia and southern Northwest Territories, are considered especially at risk. From this month until the end of summer, the Federal Government has warned of “a…
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