All About Home September, 2019 by Russian Guide

SEPTEMBER 2019

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5 HOME DECORATING IDEAS TO FALL FOR

ith colder days on the horizon, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to celebrate fall and all its beauty. This includes turning your house into the ultimate fall oasis! These home decorating tips will make you want to never leave your home.

CREATE YOUR FALL FLOWER DISPLAY

REVAMP YOUR KITCHEN FLOOR

Welcome the beauty of fall by spicing up your flower display. Fill a glass vase with vibrant, voluminous buds like Sanguisorba cones or some leaves and branches from your backyard tree.

ADD SOME TEXTURE

MIX AND MATCH DARK CANDLE COMBOS

No matter your kitchen size and colour palette, a warm-toned rug will instantly add more dimension and coziness to the space. A stylish multicoloured rug will make you want to leave it in your kitchen year-round.

You can make your house feel cozier by simply giving your chairs some texture. Pop them off and cover with rustic sweater remnants. Top off the seats with foam craft balls covered with yarn, and your guests will really appreciate their seating experience!

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Dramatic candle colours such as deep velvets, juicy greens or jet blacks,- will immediately modernize any space in your house, particularly when you add glamorous gold candleholders into the mix.

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GET A COCOON-LIKE SLEEPING SANCTUARY Turn your bedroom in a fantastically cozy nook. Plaid blankets, pillows and a cushy headboard will help you to create your cocoon-like space.

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

THREE AMAZING IDEAS TO RENOVATE YOUR BATHROOM THIS FALL!

hinking about a bathroom remodeling this fall? Do you need a bathroom that reflects your personality and satisfies your functional needs? A renovation is one of the most effective ways to add value and aesthetics to your house. And we are here to help you turn your bathroom dreams into reality without paying a fortune. Here are three ideas for a summer bathroom remodeling:

WALK-IN TUB Are you concerned about ageing in place and classic design in your bathroom? Con-

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sider installing a walk-in bathtub, which features a door for easy and safe entry and exit. Walk-in tubs can be found in a variety of models and styles, and even the size and shape of the door can be customized to your taste. This is a bonus to turn your daily bathing routine into a treat.

COLOUR Lighten up your bathroom with light hues on your walls. Bring more natural light into the space with white or faint yellow, or create a sea-spa vibe with shades of oceanic and sky blues. Ultimately, plan your colour palette in advance, and only paint the bath-

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room when you have all the accessories in one place.

LIGHT September is full of enjoyably warm days, crisp air and... sunshine, which is known for revealing smudges and dirt. Therefore, whether if your bathroom has windows, furnish them with light curtains and keep them clean. Consider purchasing additional artificial light sources, particularly around the mirrors. With those Halloween parties and music festivals, you want to ensure you have all the right conditions to get your make-up done on extremely short notice.

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

HOW TO BUILD A CUSTOM HOUSE IN ONTARIO Vasily Gunbin and Janna Gunbin Owners of V&J Architecture Inc.

any of us want to own our dream home one day. Of course, all projects are different from each other, so their timelines and prices will be slightly or tremendously different. However, there are some common factors and tips that you need to know if you are planning to build a home in Ontario. Let’s look at them to get you closer to your ideal house!

It is essential to determine the budget first. That should include the cost of building and designing your home, as well as any operational spendings, once the project is built. If you don’t own the land you hope to build on, then this purchase must be a part of your planning. You can buy a vacant lot or a lot with an existing house which will have to be demolished. All of this depends on the location you choose and, of course, your budget. While buying a vacant lot can be more cost-effective, this option works better for suburban areas rather than for a city. Depending on your priorities, budget and special conditions, a professional real estate advisor can help you make the right choice. When you acquire the building lot, you will need to order a survey which will define the property lines, existing conditions and topographic elevations. For the next step, you need to hire a designer. You can always find the houses you like and get the designer information at the local building department or ask the owners. Make sure that the designer has a good experience by checking his or her portfolio and getting the feedback from the previous clients. When you find one, provide him or her with a list of desirable features, such as

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the number of stories, bedrooms and bathrooms, the size of your garage, any preferences in style and layout... Do you want an open floor plan? Do you need extra spaces? Will your house have a large gourmet kitchen or a luxury walk-in closet with an island and a chandelier in your master area? Further, your designer studies the zoning requirements and confirms the square footage of your future house. That will depend on the house pad area, setbacks and building height limitations. The location of your lot can also influence the design of your house, exterior and interior materials and your budget. As for the materials, you need to decide which of them are more adequate for the location of your house: decorative stone, stucco, brick or vinyl or wood siding? The style of the house is also important – will it be contemporary, traditional or classic? If you build a house on a lake, for example, you will likely want to design large windows to highlight the view and a big patio with outside entertainment zones. If your house is in an established area with its specific standards, such as coffered ceilings, a servery between the kitchen and the dining room, Sub-Zero fridge, etc., – do not ignore them. Following those regulations is important for the real estate purposes and an appraisal when you switch your construction loan to a mortgage. A house design process also includes structural and mechanical design, and your architectural designer needs to coordinate this process. In general, it takes around 2-3 months to prepare the permit drawings, but it will also depend on the conditions and communications between the designer and the client. The more changes the client makes to the plan, especially at later stages, the more delay it will cause. Local building and planning department reviews the drawings and calculations within 2-3 weeks. During this time, you can look for a builder. The price of the house construction will be more accurate when you have all the drawings. Of course, interior design plays a big part in creating the look and functionality of your

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new house. That includes details, for example, arranging the lighting design in correspondence of the furniture layout. It is important to foresee all interior design ideas during the construction stage. Do you want a curb free shower? Do you wish to hide the ventilation ducts from the important areas of your house? What will be the size and the shape of the kitchen cabinets and countertops? Make sure you plan these things in advance. The interior design project will save your money and usually, designers have 10 to 40% discounts from the suppliers. On average, a custom home of approximately 3000-4000 sq. ft. can be completed in a year, and the construction cost varies between $200-240 per sq. ft., depending on the finishes and the site conditions. It is advisable to lay the foundation in the spring or summer as cold temperatures typically increase your construction costs and your construction time. On the other hand, winter is the optimal time for the interior finishes. With this in mind, you should start the designing process not later than 6 months before the summer to allow enough time for the site analysis, design works and the paperwork processing.

Vasily Gunbin

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER/ PROJECT MANAGER

647.987.4904

Janna Gunbin

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER/ REALTOR

647.627.0067

www.vjarchitecture.com info@vjarchitecture.com

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

6 SIMPLE WAYS TO PRESERVE FOODS FROM YOUR GARDEN and then sealed to prevent any new bacteria from getting in. Since the food in the can is completely sterile, it does not spoil. There are two home canning methods: water bath canning and pressure canning. Water bath canning is a shorter, lower-temperature canning process that is ideal for high-acid foods such as fruit, jams and jellies, chutneys, pickles, and relishes. Pressure canning is a method for preserving meats, poultry, vegetables, chili, fish, and other lowacid foods such as soups, stews, and stocks.

Here’s how you can enjoy summer foods all year long

By Eva Perroni

he end of summer in North America is approaching fast, but gardeners, farmers, eaters, and cooks can preserve summer’s bounty all year long. Fermentation, freezing, canning, and drying can all help prevent waste and make sure that families have an abundance of nutrients all year long. Here are six simple food preservation techniques to help save the taste of summer well into the winter months.

1. FERMENTING The process of fermentation to preserve and store foods has been practiced for thousands of years. Fermenting involves a process called lacto-fermentation, which converts a food’s sugars into lactic acid, a natural preservative that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. Beyond preservation advantages, lacto-fermentation increases the vitamin and enzyme levels and digestibility of the fermented food. Almost any vegetable can be fermented, either singularly or in a mix of many different kinds, along with herbs and spices. According to Sandor Katz, a renowned expert on and promoter of fermented foods, “There is no fermented food that anyone

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Canning jar company Ball provides easy, step-by-step canning guides on their website, while the Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving and their online recipe list provide a range of tested preserving recipes.

with a dedication to learning couldn’t figure out how to make.” His Wild Fermentation Portal provides a range of fermentation resources and links including books, podcasts, and fermentation support forums.

2. FREEZING Freezing is one of the simplest, most convenient, and least time-consuming ways to preserve fresh produce. When foods are frozen, the extreme cold stops the growth of harmful microorganisms, reducing spoilage. Fruits and vegetables can be chopped and frozen at the peak of their ripeness, when they have optimal nutrient content, and used in dishes throughout the year. Fresh herbs can be preserved and frozen in vegetable oil to reduce browning and freezer burn that often occurs when herbs are frozen on their own. Paired with seasonal or frozen vegetables, it’s a simple way to have herbs readily available for winter meals. The National Center for Home Food Preservation provides an extensive list on how to freeze an array of foods, as well as general information concerning frozen food storage and thawing and preparing foods for serving.

3. CANNING Canning has been used to store foods for almost 200 years. In canning, the food is boiled in a can or jar to kill all the bacteria,

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4. INFUSING Infusing vinegar with summer fruits is an easy way to bring fresh flavors into salads, marinades, and cocktails when the fruits themselves have gone out of season. Almost any fruit and even some flowers can be infused into vinegar. Its high acidity level breaks down the fruit and extracts the aromas and flavors into the vinegar. Similarly, placing herbs in oil infuses the herb’s flavor into the oil, which can be used to finish a variety of foods including salads, roasted vegetables, or braised meats. The University of Georgia has compiled a flavored vinegars guide outlining the preserving process and popular flavorings and recipes.

5. DRYING One of the earliest and easiest known practices, drying refers to dehydrating food to remove the moisture that bacteria, yeasts, and molds need to grow. It can be used for most types of foods including meats, fruits, and vegetables. Air-drying is a simple method to preserve herbs and spices by bunching and hanging them in a wellventilated, dry, and dark place. This can also be achieved with a conventional oven or an electric dehydrator. The Home Preserving Bible website has an Introduction to the Drying Food Pres-

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ervation Method that provides basic steps for oven-drying foods and information on electric food dehydrators.

6. DONATING If you still have fresh produce to spare, donating fresh fruits and veggies to food banks that have the capacity to take them allows for the summer harvest to be shared with those who most need it. Traditional food drives are often limited to non-perishable

food items, although an increasing number of food banks are increasing their distribution of fresh food. Amp Your Good has developed a new kind of food drive called crowd-feeding that collects perishable food such as fresh fruits and vegetables, organic food, whole meals, and lots of other healthy food. Another organization,AmpleHarvest, enables home and community gardeners to donate their excess garden produce to nearby food pantries across America.

Fresh summer produce is best when the food is in season, inexpensive, and at its peak for flavor and nutrient content. To savor summer’s bounty, preserving techniques such as freezing, canning, fermenting, and drying are a good alternative to boost variety and nutrition during the fall and winter months. This article was originally published by Food Tank. It has been edited for YES! Magazine.

These offer a great solution for your budget since they take only half the time to dry. Even your clothing benefits, since the fabric isn’t as likely to get discolored or frayed during the drying process. Having a gas dryer offers a great moneysaving option. If you haven’t tried it already, consider making the switch, and notice the difference in both your clothes and your bank account.

It’s a Common Solution for Cooktops and Stoves

WHAT IS PROPANE USED FOR?

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO THE MANY USES OF PROPANE By Dale Harris

f you’ve never used propane before, you might not know just how practical it is. Perhaps you’re concerned you’ll purchase it and end not finding it useful.

If that’s the case, worry not. You’ll find it’s more common than you realize and no matter who you are, you can appreciate the benefit of propane. If you’re asking the question “what is propane used for?” get ready to learn more.

models, making them economical for apartments and RVs. Temperature adjustment is simple and accurate, allowing you to heat your water up to the temp you desire without getting burned. You can even select tankless water heaters, making it simple to heat water up as you need it. Best of all, it’s easy to save money with propane water heaters. If you’re looking to cut down on your utility budget, this is a helpful place to start.

It Keeps Water Heaters Toasty

What Is Propane Used For? A Cheaper Alternative to Electric Dryers

Sure, electric water heaters are common, but there’s more benefits that come with using propane-fueled models. For example, propane water heaters come in smaller

Electric dryers weren’t always as common as you see today. Before their popularity, many folks used propane gas dryers to dry everything.

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If you have heard of propane usage before, it’s likely been for cookstoves. It actually still remains a popular option even today. Because the gas turns on instantly, you don’t need to wait for an oven to heat up as you would with electric heat. The burners cool off quickly too, once you remove heat, making it safer for you, your home, and your family. If you enjoy cooking for fun or want to become a food blogger and need to make meals easily and efficiently, consider using a propane stove to make the most of your cooking time while saving money.

Pools and Hot Tubs Benefit From Using Propane If you’ve ever enjoyed soaking in a hot tub during winter, you can thank a propane heater for making is possible. The same also applies to swimming pools, regardless if their in or above ground. Just as with other items around your home, they heat up quickly and cool down fast once you turn them off. If you want to enjoy your time outside during the cooler months and take a swim or soak in a hot tub, a propane heater can make that easier. Source: www.articlecity.com

September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

BRING FALL TO YOUR TABLE: AUTUMNAL DECORATING IDEAS

ithin the last few days, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been noticing more and more signs of fall. The cooler temperatures are heralding the beginning of September, setting the incredible colours of the season. Spruce up your table with these autumnal centrepieces!

FLOWERS Make nature bring grace to your table. Mix fresh and dried flowers to create an effortlessly eclectic look. You can put them inside a pumpkin-shaped vase and add springs of berries and seed pods. Place your centrepiece in the centre of your table and throw some leaves around it.

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FRUITS This time of year, fruits, such as pears, apples and pomegranates, are readily available in your local grocery stores and farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s markets. Why not create attractive fall centrepieces easily by filling a basket with the fruits? You can add a few colourful leaves and put your centrepiece on top of a pretty cloth, surrounding it with gold candles for an elegant touch.

NUTS There are so many kinds of nuts that you can use to decorate your table! Fill vases of different shapes and sizes with walnuts, acorns or chestnuts. Votive candles in gold holders and a dark orange runner cloth will complete the display.

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Page 36

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

Small Space, Big love: Solutions for Cat Lovers in Limited Quarters

ith more people moving to big cities and looking to simplify their lives, limitedspace living has recently been one of the most popular

topics. This aim toward scaling back is satisfying news for cat lovers. However, sharing your tiny house with a cat is not without its challenges. Here’s how to ensure you and your pet live in harmony when space is at a premium.

GIVE YOUR CAT A TERRITORY Remember that your feline friend is a territorial animal, just like their wild counterparts. Domestic cats won’t need that much space, but they should obtain a designated place in your small house. Let your cat choose his or her favourite spot - it might be a windowsill, high perch or a dark cozy corner. After the place is “reserved”, set up a comfortable bed or blanket. Eliminate intrusions into this spot, whether from humans or other pets.

SMART LIMITS Even in a tiny space, your cat needs a lot of freedom to explore. Instead of setting your furniture, tables and kitchen counters offlimits, consider keeping food, delicate items and anything else you don’t want your cat to get into, behind locked cabinets. And let your pet roam free.

PICK A CAT LITTER MADE FOR TIGHT QUARTERS. The litter box can be the hardest part of sharing a small house with a cat. You need a litter that gives powerful odour control and makes it simple to clean the box. If you are one of those who dread trash trips, consider getting a natural litter alternative that is flushable and septic-safe. Cats can be the perfect pets for people living in tight spaces. It just takes some planning and compromise to keep everyone purring and happy!

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

Design the Perfect 1 White Kitchen

warmth and interest when creating a white kitchen design for your home. Pick a shade, any shade... There are many different shades of white to choose from. Blue-tinged whites are cool by nature, while whites featuring yellow undertones are visually warmer. Opt for the warm side of the spectrum to subtly warm up the entire room. TIP: To avoid a visual war of whites, coordinate all of the white elements in your space, including walls, countertops, backsplash, floors, ceiling and anything else to ensure your colour selections donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t interfere.

Go with the grain Wood floors do a wonderful job, warming up a white kitchen. Their earthy tones and textures feel joyful and cozy for both your eyes and your feet. Consider a grainy hardwood or handscraped floor, from companies like Fuzion Flooring. Warm-toned stone or tile will also help you achieve a lovely warmer aesthetic.

he chic white kitchen is one thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always been in demand. Its bright clean look is timeless, and it inspires you to experiment with the classics. White

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kitchens can be traditional, contemporary or transitional, making it super easy for you to customize them upon your creative flair. On the flip-side, an all-white palette can feel cold. Here are five ways to add some visual

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Variety & visual interest. When working with an all-white palette, ensure you incorporate a variety of textures and finishes to create visual interest. Our clients like using matte-finished cabinets, which play beautifully against a glossy countertop or backsplash. By the way, this happens to be the second biggest impact point after countertops.

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TIP: Keep countertops clear and clutterfree to show off your finishes.

Non-committal colour Warm up your white kitchen with pops of colour. Be brave, have fun. We like adding in some brightly coloured window treatments, furnishings, accessories, small appliances, dishes or artwork to inspire some vibrancy without having to make a big investment - or commitment.

Dressed to the nines Just like the iconic little black dress, your white kitchen needs the right accessories to bring it to life. Your hardware and lighting are truly like the jewellery of the home, and they are worth some extra investment. We direct our customers to look at stylish light fixtures from companies like Hudson Valley to add visual impact. Remodelling your kitchen is a big investment, but it remains the most popular home renovation project for a good reason. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done right, you will enjoy this space for many years to come and potentially increase the resale value of your home. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a final word to the wise: Plan before you renovate. We always ensure we understand how you will be using the space and the tasks you will be doing in your new kitchen, and then we design accordingly. Is this a space you will be also entertaining? Or doing homework? Finally, plan to consult and hire a design professional to offer some extra guidance along the way with your design and cabinetry decisions. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you have years of enjoyment in your new kitchen.

Kitchen Designer Jaclyn Van Maurik has been in the design industry for over a decade. Known for her thoughtful custom millwork designs and kitchen design management with Pure Kitchens Inc., Jaclyn works on each kitchen from overall concept to completion. Pure kitchens Inc. designs and manufactures bespoke cabinetry for clients with discerning tastes throughout Toronto and the GTA.

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Best Way to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

he national average cost to remediate and restore a basement that has suffered water damage is $2,700. That doesn’t even begin to account for the cost of water damage to a roof or other parts of your home. If you live in a flood zone, you should be particularly wary, but water damage can occur anywhere and at any time. In the face of this looming threat, what’s the best way to protect your home from water damage? Read on to discover the answer!

● A strong, musty smell or mold ● Water pooling in your yard, particularly after a rain event

THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT YOUR HOME We’ll let you in on the secret. The absolute best way to protect your home from water damage is to properly maintain your home.

INSPECT YOUR ROOF

WATER DAMAGE 101: THE BASICS Before we delve into the best way to protect your home from water damage, we need to know what causes water damage and how you can detect it. Knowing what to look for and when to expect damage gives you a leg up in the fight to keep your home safe.

CAUSES OF WATER DAMAGE Here’s a list of the most common causes of water damage:

Your roof is exposed to all kinds of weather, all year long. It really takes a beating. You need to inspect your roof periodically, particularly after a large storm event, to check for broken or missing shingles. You should also keep an eye out for cracked flashing and large chunks of debris that may have hit the roof during a storm. If you don’t want to, or can’t climb up to your roof for a quick inspection, a pair of binoculars will give you a good idea of what’s going on up there from the ground.

● Extreme weather events, including floods

CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS

● Pipes that have burst or are leaking

Clean and functional gutters mean that water isn’t backing up on your roof, or pooling by your foundation. You want your gutters to funnel water off your roof and away from your building so that it prevents water damage. You should clean your gutters at least twice per year. In most climates, the best schedule for cleaning is after the trees have dropped their leaves in the fall, and in the spring when the snow melts. You should also add an extra cleaning if a large storm has deposited a lot of debris onto your roof and into your gutters.

● Malfunctioning appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines ● Groundwater seepage through cracks in your foundation or walls ● Roof damage, such as missing shingles or cracked flashing

SIGNS OF WATER DAMAGE The following list provides some of the telltale signs that you are dealing with water damage. Keep an eye out for these: ● Peeling paint ● Warping floors

● Ceilings and walls that show discoloration or sagging

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When cleaning the gutters, make sure the laterals are not clogged by debris. Check that winter ice hasn’t cracked or broken

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your gutters. Run water down the downspouts to see where it discharges. The vertical downspouts should direct water well away from the foundation.

CAULK AND SEAL Sealing your windows prevents rain and snow from creeping inside your home where they don’t belong. Other places in the house that should be caulked or sealed include: ● Bathtubs and sinks ● Drains, faucets and other plumbing fixtures ● Ceiling fixtures ● Backsplashes You’ll want to choose caulking or sealant that is 100% silicon. Silicon is waterproof, flexible and doesn’t crack. Avoid acrylic caulk which will shrink over time leading to water damage.

CHECK YOUR PIPES Check the plumbing in your home at least annually. Over time, pipes and hoses can rust, crack and corrode increasing your chances of a leaking pipe. Catching it early will save you money and headaches. Inspect all of the hoses and faucets that lead to appliances, such as your ice maker. Replace hoses every five or so years. If you live somewhere where frozen pipes are a concern, consider installing an emergency pressure relief valve in your piping. This allows you to relieve the pressure caused by freezing pipes and can prevent a burst pipe. If you don’t already know, find out where your water main shut-off is located. You may not be able to prevent a pipe burst, but you can mitigate the issues by shutting off the water as quickly as possible.

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DON’T FORGET THE BASEMENT Check to see if your basement is equipped with the following things:

basement, they are quite a bit messier to clean up and should be avoided at all costs.

● Sealed walls and floor

If cracks in the basement floor or walls have started to let condensation or water accumulate in the basement, you need to reseal. A paint-on sealant will re-waterproof the areas that need it.

These three things will make a major difference in the amount of water damage you sustain.

UNDERSTAND YOUR INSURANCE POLICY

● A sump pump ● A backwater valve

A sump pump is used to pump water that collects in the sump basin out of your basement and into a storm drain. If your sump pump is not functioning properly, a pool of water will collect in the sump basin and eventually flood the basement. A backwater valve is a one-way valve that allows sewage to flow out but not come back in. Although sewer backups are a less common cause of water damage in the

Homeowners and renters insurance will offer some coverage for water damage. Check with your company to better understand what you are protected against and what will be an out-of-pocket fix. As a rule-of-thumb, water damage caused by water that comes down (rain, burst pipes) is covered by your standard policy. Water damage that is caused by water that comes up (flooding) is covered by separate

flood insurance. You can opt to purchase sewer backup protection in your renters or homeowners policy.

ACCEPT THAT WATER DAMAGE HAPPENS The best way to protect your home from water damage is proper maintenance, but even this can’t always prevent water damage. No amount of preparedness can stop a flood. When water damage does happen, call the water damage experts to clean it up right and restore your home to its original condition. Source: www.articlecity.com Originally posted on www.bmscat.com/2019/05/bestway-to-protect-your-home-from-water-damage/

Cement rules: Maintaining Cement Tiles

ement tiles are known for their elegant matte finish and interesting patterns. These adorable elements are often featured on floors and backsplashes. They are produced from pigmented cement and powdered marble by an eco-friendly method - sans glaze, which also makes them resistant to chipping. Generally, cement tiles are similar to other types in price; however, due to their porous nature, they require some extra attention. Learn how to take proper care of these kitchen beauties.

INSTALLATION Before grounding your tiles, apply a sealer to avoid stains. Consider reapplying it every two-three years after.

CLEANING Try washing your backsplash and floor tiles every week with water and mild dish detergent. Consider using a neutral-pH cleaner: acidic detergents can break through the sealer, causing damage. Then wipe again with just water and blot it with a cloth. Try to clean wine, coffee, sauces and other spills

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right away. If they remain on the tile surface for a long time, it can stain. Often getting those stains out of grout requires a lot of physical effort. Hot water and a hard brush will help you to succeed. If some spots are still visible, you might have to try the same trick using an alkaline cleaner like baking/ washing soda or borax. Test it first in the least conspicuous spot to make sure the cleaner works without discolouring the tiles.

PROTECTION You can determine whether the tile needs to be resealed by placing a drop of water on it. Do you see the slight shift of the shade? Then it’s time to update the coat. Generously apply sealer on the clean, dry surface, using a large brush. Don’t forget to wear rubber gloves and let lots of fresh air in. After five minutes, clean residue with a towel. As for a floor, keep off of it for at least a day after resealing.

Does a New Independent Broker Need an Office?

hen new brokers first strike on their very own, it is essential for them to determine whether it’s well worth the time and money to get themselves an office. Whether your clients are buyers or sellers can be the determining factor in whether you need a physical office or not. In general, you’ll likely discover that you are meeting buyers outside your workplace anyway. Many real estate professionals meet their clients at locations close to the area where they are showing properties. In this case, there is less demand for an office. Sellers, however, will probably value a physical business location more. There’s a perception problem here, and listing their property with somebody who cannot show them a wall full of listed house images will be asking a lot of the regular seller. Obviously, providing them with MLS reports

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that show your listings sell faster and for a higher percentage of required price than your competitors will go a long way. Perhaps you’ve done your research, set appointments and met your buyers at a coffee shop. They spring on you that they wish to add a house to the list they saw in a magazine. They possess the MLS number, but you can’t look it up right away, as you left the computer with your access at work. You should be ready for this situation as this happens quite often. In order to be mobile, you need a wireless computer and a portable printer and scanner. Whatever works for you personally, if you want agents to hang their license with you, get a real office for them to set appointments with clients. Usually, people who hang their license with a broker do so because they want a certain

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degree of support and business presence given to their customers and prospects. You should be able to at least rent a conference room set up with an internet computer for them to meet and serve their clients. Today, a number of the documents that are used in real estate transactions can be acceptable with digital signatures. However, they are not everywhere recognized. Therefore, ensure you know your area and laws. Ultimately, with the gear mentioned above, you will be able to fill in the document blanks on a computer and print them out for signatures. Due to the fact that the prospects and client base turns more digital, there will probably be less value placed in a physical office. Nevertheless, especially with listings, the ability of local clients to walk into your office and have a real discussion about their property will always be significant.

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M O D E R N Richmond Hill

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The exteriors are also contemporary and bold, featuring brick, panelized cladding and large windows. Balconies with glass railings offer outdoor living space for the warmer months. Select homes come with gorgeous rooftop terraces.

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The exteriors are also contemporary and bold, featuring brick, panelized cladding and large windows. Balconies with glass railings offer emporary outdoor living space for the warmer anelized months. Select homes come with s. gorgeous rooftop terraces.

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Deposit Structure: $5,000 with agreement Balance to 5% in 30 days 5% in 120 days

Tentative Occupancy: Spring 2022

Direct:

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Sales oďŹ&#x192;ce hours: Monday to Thursday - 12 pm to 6 pm

Ali Nezaminia

Friday - Closed

Sales Representative

Saturday & Sunday - 12 pm to 5 pm All prices include one underground parking and one storage locker

*Prices Subject to change without notice, Illustration is artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concept. Not intended to solicit persons under contract. All properties advertised herein may not be listed by Ali Nezaminia.

iPro Realty Ltd., Brokerage, Tel: 905-507-4776, Fax: 905-787-8666

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INTRODUCING ONE CROSSTOWN

info@yorkmediagroup.net

416-357-8953, 1-844-882-2990

Page 1

INTRODUCING ONE CROSSTOWN

Two gleaming towers of steel, glass and concrete emerge from podiums formed from the historic IBM building designed by John. B. Parkin.

ONE CROSSTOWN

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“The original 1967 office complex exemplifies

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mullions, metallic panels, and tinted glass.” Babak Eslahjou Principal Architect

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Discover your first opportunity to live, work, play and thrive at Crosstown.

ALI NEZAMINIA

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Unionville

Highway 407

Two gleaming towers of steel, glass and concrete emerge from podiums formed from the historic IBM building designed by John. B. Parkin.

Vaughan Metropolitan Centre

“The original 1967 office complex exemplifies modern design principles with pronounced structure elements, vertical brick mullions, metallic panels, and tinted glass.”

Babak Eslahjou Principal Architect

A new, master-planned community with 60 acres of space to live, work, play and thrive, coming soon to Eglinton and Don Mills. Discover life in Toronto’s largest parks, or go places with the new Eglinton Crosstown LRT just steps away.

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GRAND ENTRANCE

iPro Realty Ltd., Brokerage Tel: 905-507-4776, Fax: 905-787-8666

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SW 807-B SW 621-R 2B 2B SW 621 2B S 579-A SW 809-B 2B+M1B+F S 588-A 1B+M SW 809-A 2B+M S 588-B 1B SW 807-A 2B+M S 590 1B+M SW 807-B 2B 1B+M S 628

Page 47

807 $656,900 621 57 $525,900 PODIUM 621 5 $535,900 1 579 3 $437,900 809 6 $583,900 1 588 3 $440,900 809 4 $596,900 1 588 3 $440,900 807 7 $626,900 1 590 3 $442,900 807 73 $656,900 1 628 $469,900 PODIUM S 644 2B 2 West 644 2 $475,900 S 579-A 1B+F 2B 1 1 North 579 32 $437,900 S 621 South 621 $532,900 S 588-A 1 2 North 588 32 $440,900 S 807-B 1B+M 2B Southwest 807 $651,900 S 588-B 1B 1 North TERRACE 588 3 $440,900 COLLECTION S 590 1B+M 1 North 590 3 $442,900 Approximate Outdoor Starting Model Bed Type Bath(s) Exposure Prices Starting From* S 628 1B+M 1 North 628 3 Ft $469,900 Sq. Ft Sq. Floor North 588 T265 2 $469,900 S 644S 588-A 2B 1B+M 2 1 West 644 2 $475,900 S 588-B 1B 1 North 588 T265 2 $469,900 S 621 2B 1 South 621 2 $532,900 North 658 T137 1 $528,900 S 807-BS 658 2B 2B 2 1 Southwest 807 2 $651,900 S 628 1B+M 1 North 628 T288 2 $545,900 TERRACE COLLECTION S 820 2B+M 2 Southeast Approximate 820 T282 3 $648,900 Outdoor Starting Model Bed Type Bath(s) Exposure Prices Starting From* S 809-A 2B+M 2 Northwest T1256 2 $694,900 Sq.809 Ft Sq. Ft Floor S 588-A 1B+M 1 North 588 T265 2 $469,900 Maintenance Deposit S 588-B 1BStructure 1 NorthInternational Deposit 588 StructureT265 2 $469,900 $5,000 on Signing *Approx. $0.58 per sq. ft $5,000 on signing S 658 2B 1 North 658 T137 1 $528,900 Excluding bulk internet, and utilities separately 10% in 30 days Balance 5% in 30 days metered. S 628 1B+M 1 North 628 T288 2 $545,900 10% in 120 days 5% in 180 days 10% in 370 days 2.5% in 370 days S 820 2B+M 2 Southeast 820 T282 3 $648,900 5% on occupancy 2.5% in 540 days S 809-A 2B+M 2 Northwest 809 T1256 2 $694,900 Parking Maintenance 5% in 720 days

1 1 2 2 2 2

Southwest South South North Northeast North Northwest North Southeast North Southwest North

SXSW CONDOS

in Vaughan (South Woodbridge)

5% 1% on Occupancy

Deposit Structure $5,000 signing Parkingon and Storage Locker Balance 5% in Time 30 days Limited Offer! 5% in 180 days Included 2.5%(Value in 370ofdays $45,000) 2.5% in 540 days 5% in 720 days 5% 1% on Occupancy

$79.95/month

Taxes International Deposit Structure Estimated at approximately 0.73% of $5,000 on Signing Purchase Price

10% in 30 days 10% in 120 days Prices Include H.S.T. 10% in 370 days 5% on occupancy

Maintenance

*Approx. $0.58 per sq. ft Standard Locker Maintenance Excluding bulk internet, and utilities separately $19.95/month metered.

Occupancy Commencing December 2022

Parking Maintenance $79.95/month

Taxes Estimated at approximately 0.73% of Purchase Price

Standard Locker Maintenance Parking and Storage Locker SXSW Condominiums $19.95/month Limited Time Offer! 7082 Islington Ave (Northwest corner of Islington and Steeles, north of ESSO Station) Prices Include H.S.T. Included Vaughan, Ontario, L4L 1V8 Occupancy Commencing (Value of $45,000) Phone: 905-605-2546 | Email: sxsw@bakersales.info December 2022 All prices, figures and materials are preliminary and are subject to change without notice E. & O. E. June 26th, 2019. *Includes common area maintenance, exclusive use of amenities and parklands, shuttle bus service, building insurance, reserve fund contribution, landscaping, snow and garbage removal. Please speak to our Sales Representative for further information. Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected. E. & O.E.

SXSW Condominiums 7082 Islington Ave (Northwest corner of Islington and Steeles, north of ESSO Station) Vaughan, Ontario, L4L 1V8 Phone: 905-605-2546 | Email: sxsw@bakersales.info

416-294-2247 Direct:

Ali Nezaminia

All prices, figures and materials are preliminary and are subject to change without notice E. & O. E. June 26th, 2019. *Includes common area maintenance, exclusive use of amenities and parklands,Sales shuttleRepresentative bus service, building insurance, reserve fund contribution, landscaping, snow and garbage removal. Please speak to our Sales Representative for further information. Sales oďŹ&#x192;ce hours: Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected. E. & O.E.

Monday to Thursday - 12 pm to 6 pm Friday - Closed Saturday & Sunday - 12 pm to 4 pm

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September 2019 ALL ABOUT HOME

The 4 Top Real Estate Investing Books of 2019

nvesting in real estate can be a wonderful way to show off a portfolio when hedging against market volatility. As real estate is not directly correlated to the market, when stocks increase and drop, property investments could add stability in a portfolio. There are many ways to invest in real estate - from the trusts to turnkey properties to multifamily rentals - and each features its own things to learn. Reading books about real estate investing is a great way to learn the insights before diving in. The books can give you a general overview of how to plan property investment or go down to the specifics of different investment types. Today we will help you create your real estate library with these read-worthy books.

Best General Real Estate Investing Book: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki This book is a treatise about the ways to build and grow wealth by investing in real estate and small businesses. It rates as one of the top general books on investing and personal finance of all time; however, there are some vital lessons to learn for real estate

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investors. It’s less about particular strategies and more about how to build a wealth mindset that introduces to real estate as a focal point. The main theme is using real estate to generate passive income, allowing you to work smarter, not harder, to create a portfolio that provides consistent returns. If you’re looking for motivation while you ease into real estate investing, this reading has plenty of both.

Building Wealth One House at a Time by John W. Schaub This book has a solid 9-step program that shows beginner real estate investors how to build wealth by getting million dollar assets without going into a lot of debt. His philosophy is hardly complicated: purchase one house at a time to generate cash flow for retirement. Schaub guides you through the step by step process on how to find investment properties and how to finance those. You will learn how to finance investment properties without a loan from your bank. Particularly, he explains how you can purchase these properties with owner carry back financing. He explains other methods for ac-

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quiring real estate and what is necessary to be an ideal landlord.

The Book on Flipping Houses by J Scott If you are interested in flipping houses instead of owning rental properties, you’ll enjoy this awesome book by J Scott. A professional house flipper, he focuses on finding properties to flip, as well as buying, rehabbing and reselling them for a profit.

Best for Wealth-Minded Investors: The Millionaire Real Estate Investor by Gary Keller Wouldn’t it be awesome to invest in real estate like a millionaire? There’s only one problem - you don’t have a million dollars to start off your investments. That’s the trick this book addresses. Keller represents the wisdom of more than 100 millionaire real estate investors craft a handbook for building wealth through property. You don’t have to be rich to admire the strategies and methods the author advocates; however, it’s possible that you will get rich in real estate by applying the rules he touts.

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