Beware of Poisonous Plants ! - 06/20/08 04:43 PM
We are currently battling an overgrowth of poison ivy in cottage country (Ontario Canada).  There are many more poisonous plants that need to be watched for too - especially if you have pets that roam freely.
I thought I'd post this handy link that I found.  Some of the more common plants - such as poison oak and sumach are not listed, so you need to be aware of them as well.
http://realestate.sympatico.msn.ca/Special+Features/ReadyForSpring/Most+Poisonous+Plants.htm?feedname=PHOTO_GALLERY_REALESTATE_PoisonousPlants&pos=0&nolookup=true
Trek carefully !
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How does your garden grow? - 06/20/08 04:38 PM
I found a terrific website that has a monthly guide to gardening tips.  I've been using it for my own purposes and including a link each month in my newsletter.  Be sure that the information is relevant to your climate zone.
http://www.demesne.info/Garden-Help/Gardening-Checklists/July-Checklist.htm
For those of you not sure which zone you reside in, I have also included a link to the zone map (for Canada).
http://www.hgtv.ca/gardening/plantzones/default.aspx
 
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What to look for ... - 06/18/08 07:15 AM
I'd like to share these home inspection tips that my colleague Jim Walker provided for one of my recent newsletters.  I've invited him to join ActiveRain, so hopefully we'll "see" him soon!
Here are some important things to look for in your own home or when you are thinking of buying a new or resale home.
 90% of all visible moisture in a basement comes from outside, not through  walls. Slope the land outside to make water flow away from the foundation.
 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) recommends that  every home should have a dehumidifier in operation in the basement, … (5 comments)

Discounts Available - 06/18/08 07:05 AM
For any homeowner or Realtor in the GTA, CRDA (Canadian ReDesigners Association) members can offer you significant savings on portable storage units and paint products to help get those listings ready for sale. 
Our members in other regions across the country can also provide these discounts where facilities are available.
 

 

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Do It Yourself - 06/17/08 09:30 AM
If you are someone who likes to tackle any job yourself, here is a list of "Must Haves" for your toolbox. 
measuring tape utility knife screw drivers square hammer level wrench plyers hand saw alan keys  
If you'd like to learn how to tackle these projects like a pro visit Yvonne Williams at ...
www.ihavetotalconfidence.ca
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Curb Appeal for a Quick Sale - 06/16/08 07:10 AM
You're planning to sell your home and have spent much time decluttering closets and basements, painting and primping your rooms and now it's almost time for the big day.  Your Realtor is coming to take photos and do a virtual tour for your debut on MLS !
The exterior of your home is usually the first image seen by thousands on the Internet and the many more that drive by.  How can you make it stand out from the crowd?  How can you make a great first impression that draws the buyers in ... wanting to see more?
Follow these steps … (10 comments)