Welcome to June!  June is one of our favourite months for several reasons, and we're pretty confident that we're not alone here. Even before the summer solstice occurs, June is the unofficial start of the weekends at the cottage season, or the hanging out at the campsite time, or simplest and best of all, the throw some burgers and shishkebabs on the BBQ, crack open a beverage and invite your friends and neighbours over time! The friendly guys we try to... [read more]

Happy New Year! Not everyone gets excited as January settles in. As this shiny new year reaches out ahead of us all, it may bring to mind ideas of goals or projects that you would like to accomplish, but sometimes these goals seem overwhelming, and sometimes past unmet goals make us discouraged. We understand! Here at Team Gilmour, we each like to make a vision board with images of some specific goals we want to aim towards that year. These don't have to be massive goals; we may want to... [read more]

We believe in the helpful organizational tip of making lists and check sheets. Some busy days it's an absolute lifesaver - personally and professionally! Below are some helpful things to keep in mind as you prepare for closing day. When you sell your property and buy your next dream home, closing day can come faster than you might imagine. Before you know it, it’s just weeks away! So it’s important to make the proper plans to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are... [read more]

Chances are, you know that you should change the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once a year — even if you suspect the batteries are still good. But that isn’t the only fire safety check you should do annually. Here are some other recommended tips to help keep you and your family safe. Clean your stove burners and oven regularly. Hard grease build-up can become... [read more]

If you’re thinking of selling your home, you may have walked through it and discovered that you’ve been ignoring work that needs to be done to make your home look its best. For example, you may have been living with a cracked floor tile that needs to be fixed, or a damaged closet door that requires... [read more]

You’ve heard of “buyer’s regret”. It refers to purchasing a pricey item, like a fancy sweater or a new car, and then regretting it the next day because you think you paid too much. Fear of buyer’s regret can actually dissuade people from making a purchase, even when the price is right and they really want the product! In the real estate world, buyers can sometimes hesitate to make an offer on a home for the same reason. They worry about paying too much, so... [read more]

Buying an older property definitely has its advantages. The neighbourhood will already be well-established, so you’ll be able to get a sense of the community. The trees will be grown. The area will have a defined character. This combination of an older home and established community may be something you like, or even love. However, when you’re viewing an older home for sale,... [read more]

More fires start in the kitchen than in any other room. These fires can be expensive; since even a minor incident, with no injuries, can result in significant damage. That’s why it’s important to keep up with the latest in fire prevention. The most recent research tells us: Never leave cooking food unattended. Doing so is the number one cause of kitchen fires. Make sure cooking appliances, especially deep fryers, are safety certified by the appropriate government... [read more]

Setting the right list price for a home is a mystery for many sellers. How do you begin to determine what buyers are likely to pay for your property? After all, no two homes are exactly alike.   Yet, setting the right price is crucial. You need to avoid the two price “tipping points” that, if crossed, can cause you a lot of problems. The first tipping point is a... [read more]

As you probably know, when you’re preparing to move, you’ll need boxes and tape — and, perhaps some bubble-wrap or old newspapers to use as protective wrapping for delicate items. But that may not be all you need. Take a look at this list and see if you want to have any of these on hand while you’re packing or on your moving day: Colour markers for labelling... [read more]

You’ve heard of the term “curb appeal”. It refers to the initial impression buyers get when they first see your property from the street. If the impression is a good one, it sets the right tone for the rest of the home viewing. How do you boost curb appeal? Here are some proven ideas that you can get done in an hour or so: Wash both the inside and outside of the front windows. You’ll be amazed at the difference that can make. Sweep the walkway leading up to... [read more]

“Staging” is about setting up and decorating each room of your home so that it looks as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Studies show that a property is more likely to sell quickly and for a better price if it is effectively staged. Even if you haven’t heard of staging before, you probably already know the basics, such as eliminating clutter and making sure everything is clean and “guest ready”. However, there are also some home staging... [read more]

Lifestyle is a very important criterion when you’re shopping for a new home. After all, a home and its surrounding neighbourhood are the places where much of your lifestyle is going to be experienced. So when you consider a new home, think about the kind of lifestyle to which the property needs to lend itself. Ask yourself: How much entertaining do we do? How important is it to have good schools located nearby? How long will the commute to work be? How big of a backyard... [read more]

  “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” —Dale Carnegie The idea of living a simple life with less stuff sounds attractive to many. But often, they begin to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and defeated around the idea of owning less. That’s too bad. Learning how to declutter your home and (and as a result, decluttering your life) doesn’t need to be as painful as some make it out to be. And the... [read more]

Ontario Taxation Act, 2007, s. 103.0.3 This refundable tax credit is for the 2021 tax year only and was introduced by the Ontario 2020 Budget. The intention of the credit is to support seniors who stay in their homes, by providing a tax credit for renovations or improvements that make their homes safer and more accessible. Eligibility   not dependent on income   can be claimed for... [read more]

Historically low interest rates coupled with highly active markets might have you wondering whether now is the right time to purchase an investment property.  Canada’s housing markets have shattered records since the early summer, posting a 45.6% year-over-year increase in sales activity during September, according to the latest data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). During the first nine months of this year, 402,578 homes changed hands over Canadian... [read more]

  Lighting can make or break even the best interior design. If you want to impress guests with thrilling home interior design, be sure to get lighting right. Pendant lamps are the best choice of lighting for a modern home interior. But when it comes to pendant lights, make sure you choose something that has an extraordinary, unusual design – one that calls attention and can trigger visual focus upward. [read more]

Follow these steps to straighten up your kitchen cabinets and shelves so they’re a pleasure to use: Kitchen cabinet doors and drawers can hide a multitude of sins. On the other hand, it’s a real treat to open them up to see nice, organized shelves where everything is easy to grab when and where you need it. Is it time to organize your kitchen cabinets? It can be a big job, so don’t try to do it all at once. Take your organizing one kitchen cabinet at a time, committing... [read more]

Ah, fall: The nip of the first chill in the air. The colorful foliage. The pumpkin spice lattes. The pumpkin spice everything. Oh yeah, and the long list of home maintenance tasks awaiting you at the start of the season. We hate to intrude on your fall bliss, but the postsummer months are a critical time for knocking out routine home maintenance to keep your household running smoothly into winter. Luckily, many of these tasks are easy DIY projects, with options to call in the pros if... [read more]

Many Canadian mortgage holders renew without asking any questions—often receiving a higher rate with a mortgage product that doesn’t suit their needs. Do yourself a favour, and don’t sign a renewal letter without doing your due diligence. Take an assessment of your current situation, put a plan in place, and let the lenders compete for your business to ensure you receive the best mortgage possible. Here’s what you need to consider before renewing your... [read more]

Twas the night of Thanksgiving, but I just couldn't sleep I tried counting backwards, I tried counting sheep. The leftovers beckoned - the dark meat and white but I fought the temptation with all of my might.   Tossing and turning with anticipation the thought of a snack became infatuation.   So, I raced to the kitchen, flung open the door and gazed at the fridge, full of goodies galore.   I gobbled up turkey and buttered potatoes, pickles... [read more]

A TFSA, or tax-free savings account, was first introduced in 2009 for Canadians to create an investment savings account whereby all growth on their deposits are not taxed. Really, every Canadian over 18 should have a TFSA as part of their plan to save for the future. If you were just starting out today and had not been contributing since 2009, you could invest $69,500 per person in 2020. The maximum contribution for 2020 is $6,000 per person, but the Canadian government allows you to make up... [read more]

What do you notice when you visit a model home in a new development? Often, you will find wonderfully furnished and decorated rooms that anyone could live in. The operative word here is “anyone”. Sure, there might be a computer screen on a desk in the den, or a child’s doll sitting in a corner, but for the most part, all the rooms are anonymous. There is a sense... [read more]

The Greater Toronto Area neighbourhoods that saw the greatest price growth so far this year had a detached housing average value of $2.9 million, according to RE/MAX. In its recent analysis, RE/MAX said that the localities of Annex, Yonge-St. Clair, Casa Loma, and Wychwood had a 25.7% annual increase in detached housing prices during the first half of the year. “The areas of Yonge-St. Clair and Wychwood were recognized as being two of the top neighbourhoods to buy real estate in... [read more]

Welcome Guests Abundantly Fall = guests, family and get-togethers. Get your front porch ready for fall festivities with a pair of planters surrounded by an abundance of mums and real or faux pumpkins and gourds. Mix in a few lanterns to add a welcoming glow to evening gatherings. Cue the Copper Copper has continued to grow in popularity, making the glowing material the metal of the moment. A pretty copper pail can turn fresh-cut flowers or a bunch of branches into an eye-catching... [read more]

Updating upholstered furnishings is an easy way to refresh your home interior design. Old, tired patterns and fabrics can date your space; cushion covers and curtains are often the culprits. Replacing them is a simple home interior design idea, making a big difference when looking to freshen up your home. Opt for light and bright fabrics in unusual tones and patterns for longevity.   [read more]

Would you like to give a fresh look to your house without breaking the bank? Try these extremely low-cost makeovers to give your house a face lift. · Wash instead of paint: If you can't afford to paint the home, how about giving it a good wash? Do not forget to scrub the screens, windows, and gutters, as well as the sidewalk and driveway while you're at it. · Paint the trim and front door: Your home's exterior will look crisper with fresh trim and front... [read more]

In an age of misinformation, something as simple as cleaning a cloth face mask can become incredibly confusing. What should you use to clean it? How should you clean it, and how often? We’ve likely read many of the same articles you have, and we’re still confused. Which is why we chose to turn to the science experts for some definitive advice on how to properly clean face masks. Apparently, it’s not all that complicated! Here are a few things to keep in mind before you... [read more]

Every day, our conversations online and off are filled with "did you hear this yet?" news about the coronavirus pandemic. And, alas, not all of what you hear is true—particularly when it comes to real estate. For instance: Do you assume, as many do, that it's a terrible time to sell a home since real estate prices are plummeting? On the contrary, the latest data shows that home prices and buyer demand are through the roof. Or have you heard that the coronavirus... [read more]

An amazing opportunity has been initiated by the Canadian government for students who are enrolled in post secondary schools this coming September to offer a student grant by volunteering remotely for a non-profit over the summer. The purpose of the Canada Student Service Grant is to address the lack of work opportunities for students this summer due to the pandemic. Students who apply will be required to volunteer (remotely from home) to help a non-profit organization. Depending on... [read more]

Using a specific decor arrangement as a focal point is a great first step in creating a stunning entryway design. Many eye-catching arrangements use a console table as a stylish foundation. Place your small entryway table against a wall that is easily visible upon walking through your front door. You should decorate it like you would a mantle – use a bold centerpiece to anchor your decor, items of varying heights to add weight to either side, and smaller accents to fill in... [read more]

Spring is the best time to sell. Traditionally, real estate sales have peaked in spring, making it the optimal time to sell. The popularity of spring home sales once had a lot to do with buyers wanting to time a move around the kids' school schedules. Today's buyers are different, though. Many of them do not have children in school and so they are less likely to wait for spring to make a move. In this new market, a savvy seller knows that a house is more likely to sell fast... [read more]

A businessman was standing at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with a fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellowfin tuna. The visiting tourist complimented the fisherman on the quality of his fish. "How long did it take you to catch them?" the businessman asked. "Only a little while" the fisherman replied. "Why don't you stay out longer and catch more fish?" the businessman then asked. "I have enough... [read more]

Who does not love spending a warm summer night on the patio or front porch? Especially after the last few months. The right lighting can set the mood for a perfect summer night. Here are a few things to consider when deciding on the best lighting for your home. Consider three types: Ambient, Task & Accent: When mapping out your lighting, think about various types of lights. Incorporate one style or the whole package to set the perfect scene. Ambient lights are lights such as hanging... [read more]

How are you? I wanted to check in to see if your family is safe and healthy. By now, we’re all probably looking for a little break. I wanted to pass on a few ways that will help you take a daily mental escape. Meditate: Take time each day to clear your mind through meditation. Breathing exercises will help you clear the mental clutter. Exercise: Whether it’s a quick run or a relaxing walk, getting outside for exercise is a healthy way to escape any stress. You... [read more]

Living in a home when it is on the market can be tough for more reasons than keeping it ready to show. It’s fairly common for realtors to show the house with little to no warning and at odd hours. Because many potential buyers work during the daytime, they often schedule home tours in the early morning or late evening. Finding places for your parent to go during the showings, especially if they’ve given up driving, can be challenging. Selling a Home After the Senior’s... [read more]

Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with the pandemic stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Here are a few ways to cope with stress.   Take care of your body Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate Try to eat healthy, well-balanced... [read more]

are Homes that are staged by a Certified Home Stager sell 75% faster and for more money than those that are not. Over the years, The Grant Gilmour Group has staged numerous homes. However, with Covid19 the new trend is Virtual Staging and the results are amazing! It showcases the true potential of your property and provides a polished look to the rooms without accessing the home or bringing furniture and staging accessories to the house. If you are thinking of selling, or would like more... [read more]

Colours influence our emotions and mood in a number of surprising ways. According to colour psychology, the right paint shade may enhance productivity, promote calm, boost creativity levels and even increase your appetite.  We dug a little deeper to unlock the meaning behind your favourite paint colours and the rooms they work best in. Keep in mind, it’s not just colour that makes an impact; the intensity of the shade is also... [read more]

One of the decisions you will need to make once an aging parent decides to move to a senior living community is when to sell their home. Should you wait until their move is complete? Or sell the house first? While there is no right or wrong answer, each has pros and cons. Let’s look at what to consider as you create a timeline for a loved one’s move to a senior living community. Selling an Elder’s House Before They Move Pro: Financial peace of... [read more]

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With spring's recent arrival, it’s a hard time to be stuck at home. If you’ve joined the millions of Americans in a self-quarantine recently, then we’d bet you’re going a little stir-crazy by now—and ready for a change of scenery from the four walls of your living room. But there's good news! You can practice social distancing and shake up your view all at the same time. For inspiration, we took to Instagram (as we do every week) to seek out... [read more]

These tips can help keep you, your family, and your community healthy. As the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), continues to climb around the globe, one of the top questions people are asking is: What can we do to prevent it from spreading? It's a stressful time, to be sure — but there are simple, specific steps you can take to protect yourself and others from becoming infected. The first defense is washing your hands —... [read more]

More and more older Canadians will likely postpone their retirements to ensure their households’ purchasing power, according to Joseph Nunes of the C.D. Howe Institute. “Workers participating in a defined-contribution pension plan have a few levers to provide for adequate income in retirement, including saving at a greater rate during their working years and/or postponing retirement until their savings (including government benefits) reach the necessary level,” Nunes wrote... [read more]

Call in a Pro to Declutter The longer you live in a house, the less you see the mess over time. Sometimes you need a fresh pair of eyes. You can hire an organizer for a few hours to tackle bookshelves and closets, which stagers say are often packed with twice the amount of stuff they should hold. Whittling down what's on your shelves by 50 percent. Then mix horizontal stacks of books among the vertical rows and intersperse decorative objects, such as bowls or vases, among them [read more]

Timing is a crucial consideration when selling a home. A study by RE/MAX said it is ideal put properties on sale during the months of February, March, and April. RE/MAX said while the weather is not ideal during February, the month allows home sellers to gain exposure before the spring rush. "The normally low inventory in February means less competition. The timing of February is also good in terms of people beginning to either start (or) resume their house hunt after the busy... [read more]

Maybe it’s been a while since your living room got any love. We get it—it’s easy to get sidetracked by all the different ways you can upgrade your kitchen or bathroom. But the living room has played second fiddle long enough. If you’re ready to let this room take center stage, there are lots of ways you can add some oomph to the social hub of your home—without shelling out big bucks for a contractor and interior designer. Here are a... [read more]

Another year has come to an end, and another has just begun. So, now that the new year is here, what resolutions are you going to make? Making New Year's resolutions is a time-honored tradition all around the world. We all hope for a better future--especially when the year we're leaving behind has been a tough one. According to research on the topic, about 60 percent of us admit that we make New Year's resolutions but only about 8 percent of us are... [read more]

A simple home decor idea for your living room is to replace your throw pillows. Throw pillows are an easy way to accessorize and brighten a room, whether you buy them or make your own. Homeowners should throw out their older throw pillows and replace them with bright, fuller pillows-or just buy crisp new pillow covers. "Mix and match colors and textures and blend different groupings. But more is not better. "There can be too many pillows, so make sure you don't go... [read more]

Living in a large home is great for some families, but for others the cost and energy required to maintain them is burdensome. That’s why 60 percent of people living in homes over 2,000 square feet in size say they’d rather move to a smaller home next time according to a sruvey last year from Trulia. Moving into a smaller house can be a great move (pun intended) financially and mentally. After all, less square footage means lower utility bills and less space for clutter to... [read more]

1. Run your finances like a business. You should treat your budget like a business, because in the  business of life, the bottom line matters. Many of the same principles business owners use can be applied to your personal life: prioritize your spending, assess your profits and losses, and don't lose sight of the big picture, like saving for retirement or getting out of debt.  2. Make saving part of your lifestyle. Saving money doesn't always... [read more]

For 40 years, two friends lived on adjoining farms, separated by a wide creek. One day the friends began to fight over a petty thing and their long friendship fell apart. The misunderstanding grew into bitter words and finally, silence. Weeks later there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox. "I'm looking for a bit of work," said the carpenter. "I have a job for you," said John. "Look across the creek at that... [read more]

The success of any team (not to mention your own family!) depends on the positive attitudes of the members and the leader. Demonstrate—and reinforce—these important personal guidelines: · Ego control. Remember, be committed to the goals of the team, not your own ambitions. Can you and the rest of your team put the group’s priorities first? · Admitting mistakes. Be willing to honestly concede errors so the team can move... [read more]

  Save yourself this Christmas If the festive season usually leaves you out of pocket and feeling like you spent more time and money battling the crowds than relaxing with friends and loved ones, why not simplify things this year?  Here are some quick and easy tips to help you enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank. 1. Have a pre-Christmas clean up There's still time to bag some extra cash to boost your festive finances. Spend a few hours clearing out... [read more]

Registration for the City’s Driveway Windrow Snow Clearing Program is open until 9 p.m. on November 8 for residents 65 years and over and people with physical disabilities. The program provides assistance to eligible applicants by clearing a space in the windrow (about three meters or 10 feet wide) after snow plowing operations have ended. The program runs from December 2, 2019 to March 27, 2020. Pick up and submit applications at your local community center, the Mississauga... [read more]

When people share their goals with you, do you help them launch their dreams—or try to bring them back to Earth? In his book The Man Who Listens to Horses (Ballantine), famed horse trainer Monty Roberts tells about the time one of his teachers in high school assigned a paper called “My Goals in Life.” The teacher, Mr. Fowler, was interested only in practical goals—not fantasies about going to Hollywood to become a movie star, and the like. But young Monty had a... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

Maybe you’ve bought and sold a home before, or maybe this is the first time. Regardless, now you need to get top dollar for it. Yes, you can tidy up, bake some cookies so the house smells nice, and place fresh flowers (research says roses, lavender, and fuchsia most sway buyers) around the house. But these are the typical techniques most sellers deploy. Really want to get the best price possible—or even spark a bidding war? Here are 10 tips that are seldom mentioned in listing... [read more]

Despite being called out for their ineptitude at saving money and their overwhelming fondness for spending it on experiences instead of things, millennials actually do desire financial stability—especially if it means they can buy a house. So what kind of homes do they want? According to real estate professionals, a large majority of millennials seeks out properties that are move-in ready—with plenty of room for customization. "They care more about the home... [read more]

If you tend to procrastinate, or drag your feet getting a task done, here's a simple technique that might help: Start using a timer. If you avoid tasks like cleaning the house, set the timer on your stove or phone for 15 minutes, then make an agreement with yourself to clean like mad for just those 15 minutes. The timer has a way of making the task more bearable because it has an end time. You can "bear" it for 15 minutes. It's likely that you'll keep going after that... [read more]

¨ He thrusts his fists against the posts and still insists he sees the ghosts. ¨ Creepy crawler critters crawl through creepy crawly craters ¨ Dracula digs dreary, dark dungeons. ¨ Ghostly ghouls gather gleefully to golf on ghostly golf courses. ¨ Gobbling gargoyles gobbled gobbling goblins ¨ Horribly hoarse hoot owls hoot howls of horror in Halloween haunted houses. ¨ If big black bats could blow bubbles, how big... [read more]

Wills and powers of attorneys aren’t just for the wealthy - they are essential legal documents everyone should have, as they dictate how you or your assets are to be cared for or dealt with in the event you pass away or become incapacitated. A properly drafted and executed will (or wills) ensures that your assets are distributed, and your minor children are taken care of, according to your wishes in the event of your death.  Powers of attorney are equally important documents... [read more]

Fall is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Most of the tasks listed below are well with- in the average person’s ability. But even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money – and maybe even your life. Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts. Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with... [read more]

A minister was retiring, and after his final sermon, he stood at the door of his church to say farewell to his parishioners. One old woman told him, “I’m sure our next pastor won’t be as good as you’ve been.” The minister was flattered but tried to be modest. “Oh, I’m sure he’ll be fine. What makes you say that?” “I’ve been here for the last five pastors,” said the lady, “and each one has been worse than the one... [read more]

You're a statistic. To an insurer, you're not a person; you're a set of risks. An insurer bases its premium on your "risk factors," including occupation, who you are, what you own, and how you live. Know your home's value. Before you choose a policy, it is essential to establish your home's replacement cost. A local builder can provide the best estimate. Insurers differ. What seems to be the same product can be priced differently by different... [read more]

One of the most important ingredients in scrambled eggs is air. It would be nice if we could just dollop a Tablespoon of air into the mixing bowl, but for the time being, incorporating air into beaten eggs requires good old-fashioned elbow grease. The more you whisk, the more air bubbles become trapped in the shaken and unraveling protein of the eggs. As the eggs cook, protein molecules firm-up around the air bubbles resulting in a spongy texture and hopefully full and fluffy scrambled eggs.... [read more]

· Steam-clean your microwave. Cut a lemon in half and put it in a microwave-safe dish filled with water. Zap it until the water boils. Let it steam for another minute before opening. The gunk can now be wiped away with less effort. · Speed up dryer time. Throw one clean dry towel in with your wet clothes before starting the dryer. 10-15 minutes later, take it out. The dry towel will absorb some of the excess moisture. · Clean scorched pans. Fill the... [read more]

We already know that a healthy lifestyle is a major factor in living a long life, but new studies show that having hobbies and staying socially active is equally important for seniors. It has long been known that a nutritious diet, exercise, and positive health choices all contribute to helping seniors feel more energetic. In fact, emerging research into longevity indicates that mental and social activity is just as critical as physical activity when it comes to... [read more]

Working life wasn’t always easy for Geraldine Pennie and her husband. Work as a tool and die maker was well paying, but intermittent, for her husband, Doug. For Pennie, there was a series of contracts in social welfare, including running subisidized housing. Neither spouse was in a job that had a private pension. Still, they were delighted to discover they could easily afford to buy a home, take summer camping trips with their son and daughter, and even enjoy the odd vacation in... [read more]

Two sons work for their father on the family farm. The younger son has for years been given more responsibility and reward, and one day the older son asks his father to explain why. The father says, "First, go to the Kelly's and see if they have any geese for sale." The son soon returns with the answer, "Yes they have five geese they can sell us." The father then says, "Good, please ask them the price." The son returns with the answer, "The geese... [read more]

A woman ran a garden store that had been in the family for three generations. For as long as anyone could remember, the garden store’s business was always great and the owner and staff were happy and cheerful. People often said, “Who wouldn’t be happy with the kind of business they’re doing?” When anyone new came into the garden store, they’d notice that all the staff wore a big badge that read, Business Is Great! Everyone who saw the badge for the... [read more]

When you first start using coupons, expect a 25-30% reduction in your grocery bill. Over time, with attention to details, you can save 30-50%. And with extreme couponing, you can reach the more than 50% level. · Don't use coupons the week they come out. Stores jack up prices in anticipation. · Use coupon-matching websites such as SavingsAngel, CouponMom and The Grocery Game, and combine manufacturers' and in-store coupons to maximize... [read more]

As you get older, you run the risk of being unable to make your wishes clear when it comes to your estate planning. Many people procrastinate because they don’t know where to start on the process. You may even be afraid that if you sign a power of attorney form over to a child, you may end up stuck in a nursing home. These are all valid concerns. This fear can be mitigated by meeting with an estate planner, and putting your wishes down on paper. Build in a contingency plan for how you... [read more]

Everyone has heard of Murphy's first law: "If anything can go wrong, invariably it will." But hardly anybody knows who Murphy was. The search for Murphy's notebooks over the years has led to a garage in Toledo, Ohio; an inventor's junk loft in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; and the home of a retired female blackmailer in Sarasota, Florida. It was learned that Murphy had no first name, that he never could hold a job, and that his writings were returned by the post office for... [read more]

Get ready for sunnier days, whether you have an hour or a weekend to spare. The first official day of spring is March 20. So whether there’s still snow on the ground or flowers in bloom, you can rest assured that nicer weather is on its way. Usher in the new season with a bit of spring cleaning, some fresh flowers and — if you can get outdoors — a little dirt under your fingernails. Things to Check Off Your List in an Hour or Less 1. Make mirrors and table lamps... [read more]

A strong relationship is founded on communication and sharing.  So how much do you know about your partner or spouse?  Try these simple questions — the more you can honestly answer “yes” to, the firmer ground you’re on:  I know who my partner’s best friends are. I can describe my partner’s greatest ambition. I can name my partner’s favorite singer or musical group. My partner appreciates the things I do for him/her. My... [read more]

Making any kind of prediction about the real estate market is a risky proposition. The website of Housing Finance magazine, though, cautions readers to be wary of these age-based assumptions: Generation Y doesn’t want to buy a house. In fact, one survey of over 1,200 members of Generation Y found that about 36 percent already own a house, and 70 percent of those who don’t own a home expect to buy one by their early 30s. Baby Boomers want “Independent Senior... [read more]

Real Estate Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale. Staging is really about un-decorating and removing years of living, collecting & decorating so a buyer can visualize themselves living in the home. When a seller "lets go" of some of their own things, it then gives permission for the buyer to buy! There are many benefits of staging your home for sale. Here are the top 5 reasons. 1. Staging is always less than your first price reduction. In most cases a price... [read more]

To leave the old with a burst of song, to recall the right and forgive the wrong. To forget the thing that binds you fast to the vain regrets of the year that’s past. To have the strength to let go your hold of the not worthwhile of the days grown old. To dare to go forth with a purpose true, to the unknown task of the year that’s new. To help your brother along the road to do his work and lift his load.. To add your gift to the world’s good cheer is to have and... [read more]

Province Helping Seniors Stay Active and Socially Connected Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility Ontario is helping seniors stay active and connected to their communities by investing in up to 40 new Seniors Active Living Centres across the province. Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, joined by Vic Dhillon, MPP, Brampton-West, was at the Villa Polonia in Brampton today to announce the recipients of new Seniors Active Living Centre funding. CANES Community Care is... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

Grandparents Day is September 9, here are some delightful stories from – and about – grandparents:  My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday.  He asked how old I was, and I told him “62.”  He was quiet for a moment and then he asked, “Did you start at one?” When my grandson Billy and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects.  Still, a few... [read more]

The first day of school looms large and scary for new pupils – and their parents as well.  Here are some suggestions on how to ease the transition:   Establish a routine in the morning before the school year starts, so your child can get accustomed to dressing and having breakfast without hurrying.   Before classes begin, visit the school with your child so it won’t seem so strange.  Many schools have special orientation programs to familiarize... [read more]

On average, families move about every five years and we are always looking for repair and service people we can trust. Most of us rely on wise neighbors for referrals to reliable plumbers, painters and auto mechanics. Still, it takes time to develop your own personal relationships with them. Here are some ways that may help give you more confidence in your choices until you and your service people have bonded. Ask around for shops and services before you need them. Don’t put off... [read more]

Like speeches from the throne, budgets are aspirational documents delivered by the governing party to outline their spending priorities, with hopes of continuing to be the governing party. Given how close today’s Ontario budget is to the June 7 provincial election, a healthy dose of skepticism is warranted.   This budget leaves the impression that the Ontario Liberals are gambling that Ontarians will forgive significant deficits if it means large investments in social... [read more]

In the unfortunate circumstance that a homeowner is past-due on their monthly mortgage payments, they pave the way for a “foreclosure” on their property. In today’s market, banks and other lenders do not turn to foreclosure to take away the homes of homeowners who are in arrears. Instead, they perform a "Power of Sale" which is wholly different from a Foreclosure. What is a Foreclosure? Foreclosures are laborious, grueling, and costly to both the... [read more]