tips: Winter Staging Tips - 11/21/08 06:31 AM
A few helpful reminders when showing your home in the winter season.
ensure that outside steps and walkways are always clear of snow & ice
ensure that your exterior lighting is adequate
ensure that your home is a comfortable temperature - but not TOO warm as potential buyers will be wearing coats … (0 comments)
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tips: Layers & Textures - 10/29/08 07:42 PM
It's time to get warm and cosy. It's time to settle in and prepare your home for the approaching winter season. The nights are definitely cooler and darkness comes far too soon. But these tips are sure to help you enjoy the season.
- add a heavier drapery panel over your … (0 comments)
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tips: In the News ! - 09/15/08 12:38 PM
I'm very pleased to report that I was recently quoted (along with one of my CRDA colleagues - Susan Brown), in mainstream media.
The article, entitled "Tricks to make small spaces seem bigger", appeared in the Globe and Mail Real Estate Section, on August 22, 2008.
Again, thanks to Sandra MacLennan … (5 comments)
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tips: Remembering Summer - 08/24/08 06:39 AM
Back to School & Back to Work
For many, the month of September is a time for new beginnings and fresh ideas, getting organized and settling in. But the weather is still nice so continue to enjoy your outdoor spaces while you reflect upon memories made during the summer holidays.
… (5 comments)
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tips: Sanity for Small Space Living - 08/12/08 08:43 PM
When dealing with a small space, such as a student dorm, first apartment or tiny condo you must effectively utilize your vertical living space. Shelving and storage will be your new best friends. Also be sure to look for pieces that are small scale, streamlined and multi-functional. This can be a … (1 comments)
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tips: 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 … (6 comments)
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tips: 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 … (5 comments)
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tips: 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.
… (3 comments)
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tips: 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 … (1 comments)
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tips: 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 … (10 comments)
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tips: Instant Updates for your Room - 05/08/08 05:41 PM
Oh it's sad but true, I've seen all of these things recently. Please do yourself a favour and spring into the current decade.
10 Things to Remove NOW
doilies
dusty silk or dried flowers
macrame plant hangers or wall hangings
plastic, lucite or cardboard photo frames
pleated lampshades
balloon style … (7 comments)
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tips: Why Should a Home be Staged? - 04/03/08 02:27 PM
A good first impression is critical, and a house (like any individual) has only one chance to make that important first impression. It takes less than 60 seconds for a potential buyer to decide whether or not they like a home. Sometimes, they won't even get out of the car. Curb … (4 comments)
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tips: Love Bites - 01/28/08 10:10 AM
With the month of February fast approaching, we turn our thoughts to love and passion in the bedroom. But this is definitely one LOVE BITE you don't want to receive.
http://www.bramptonguardian.com/news/article/41936
I'm itchy just thinking about it !! If ever there was a time to redesign your bedroom, this would be it.
Does your … (2 comments)
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tips: The Color White - 11/22/07 08:38 AM
Today in Peel Region (and across the Greater Toronto Area) we have been hit with our first winter storm. This is very early compared to last year when our first snowfall arrived in late January!
I was just getting used to the fact that we had plenty of lingering yellow and … (7 comments)
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tips: Paint Calculator - 11/02/07 07:43 AM
What a great on-line tool this is ! One of my colleagues recently pointed this out to me, as a way to help those "do-it-yourselfers" calculate the amount of paint required for the job. Of course this is a very general guideline and doesn't take into account the door & window … (2 comments)
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tips: Outdoor Decor for Fall - 10/04/07 09:36 AM
Autumn has arrived with all its splendor and you can still enjoy the use of your outdoor rooms, even when the evenings turn chilly. The addition of a clay Chiminea or copper fire pot will add warmth and create wonderful atmosphere for you and your guests. A few cozy and colorful … (5 comments)
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tips: Buying your first home ? - 09/09/07 03:23 PM
I happened upon this archived article in the Toronto Star while browsing the headlines. It contains a good list of questions & answers for buyers venturing into their first home purchase, and should help to alleviate some of the stress. It will even serve as a good reminder for all buyers.
http://www.thestar.com/living/article/205011
… (0 comments)
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tips: Measurements to Remember - 09/07/07 12:04 PM
Anyone who knows me well knows that I am NOT a "numbers" person! But in this industry, there are some things that you just sort of commit to memory ... and those things are measurements.
You can always cheat a little bit and "eyeball" things, but you should at least know the … (2 comments)
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tips: CRDA President offers great Staging Advice on the West Coast - 08/19/07 08:46 AM
Val Sharp, President of the Canadian Redesigners Association, has had recent coverage in the Vancouver Sun with an article on useful staging tips for the homeowner. This article pinpoints the reason for staging a home and gives practical advice on the details that can be missed by the homeowner themselves. It helps … (2 comments)
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tips: Frame it Right - 06/01/07 07:38 AM
Enjoy the summer with your family - quite literally - even if they can't be with you. The next best way to surround yourself with loved ones is by creatively displaying the old family photos.
I'm no photographer but as a child I spent many hours with my dad watching his work … (2 comments)
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tips: Curb Appeal - 05/11/07 09:43 AM
When it comes to curb appeal - first impressions are everything. Good landscaping can make all the difference. Strategically placed shrubs, trees and the right combination of colours will compliment the exterior of a house or building and add $$ to property value. Walk across the street and view your house from different angles … (2 comments)
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tips: Let's Get Organized - 05/11/07 09:36 AM
Studies show that working in a cluttered office not only impedes your productivity but it adds unnecessary stress and embarrassment. Even if your clients never see your office you will feel better and more professional if it is organized and efficient.
Courtesy of Cherri HurstHurst Class Organizing416.241.7618
Here are Ten Steps to Organizing … (0 comments)
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tips: Shelf Assistance - 05/11/07 09:33 AM
The following article was provided by my colleague Cherri Hurst of Hurst Class Organizinghttp://www.hurstclass.com/416.241.7618The sun is shining and I have been waiting all week to... organize my kitchen? I am not big on Spring Cleaning but turn that into Spring Organizing and you will have my full attention. On a day … (0 comments)
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tips: Protect Your Investment - 05/11/07 09:27 AM
Your home is typically one of the largest assets you will ever possess. With cottage season and long awaited road trips in the forecast, be sure that you protect your property and piece of mind while you're away. Or if you plan to move over the summer months, you might want … (0 comments)
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tips: 10 Tips for a Less Chaotic Home - 05/09/07 08:24 AM
Well, I'm happy to report that I've gotten to the bottom of my clutter pile and found one more thing I'd like to share with you. After 3 years, I was still able to find the article on the Internet ... don't you just LOVE Google?
http://home.ivillage.com/cleanandorganize/organize/0,,98bs,00.html
I need to pay particular attention … (5 comments)
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tips: Brampton Community Resources - 05/05/07 07:28 AM
Here is the link to the official "City of Brampton" website for all that you need to know about living, working and playing in Brampton -
http://www.city.brampton.on.ca/home.taf
And this link provides you with an online community news digest and events calendar, which is brought to you by Brampton Media Corp. Sign up for … (0 comments)
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tips: Allergen Free Gardens - 04/29/07 09:03 AM
With the warm weather now upon us, we want to be able to enjoy the outdoors without sniffling and sneezing. Choosing the right plants for your garden can help reduce those awful allergy triggers. Here are some excellent tips from HGTV.ca. Apparently, "male" plants are the pollen producing culprits !
http://www.hgtv.ca/garden/articledetails.aspx?ContentId=2478&cat=2&by=6
Read more … (0 comments)
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tips: Do you really know what clutter is ? - 04/28/07 03:37 PM
This article was included in a newsletter distributed by my good friend Lisa Moyles, a Business Coach in Connecticut - http://www.actioncoaching.com/lisamoyles/The article itself was written by Jill McKean - http://www.organizeit-now.com/
I felt it was important enough to share ...
Yes, clutter is what sits on top of your desk and on the floor … (5 comments)
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tips: 2007 Flea Market Guide (for Canada) - 04/18/07 02:31 PM
This 2007 Flea Market Guide includes eastern, central and western Canada locations on where to find the best vintage stuff - helpful for picking up unique and inexpensive staging props. The list includes dates and times as well as contact phone numbers and admission costs.
http://www.styleathome.com/styleathome/client/en/Today/DetailNews.asp?idNews=234210
(source Style at Home online decorating magazine)
… (1 comments)
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tips: Global Warming - 04/18/07 02:26 PM
Here is a link to an article on "homemakers.com" entitled "10 ways to save money - and the environment" by Carlye Malchuk.
http://www.homemakers.com/homemakers/client/en/Home/DetailNews.asp?idNews=237606
With the issue of global warming high on everyone's agenda, this article offers money saving tips on ways to reduce energy consumption in and around the home.
A very timely piece … (1 comments)
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tips: Newsprint ! - 04/16/07 07:58 AM
I much prefer reading the newspaper online because the ink stays on the screen and my Blue Box stays empty ! So here are a few clippings from my weekend reading ... and I didn't even have to use the scissors.
"Garden room fad sprouting new roots" - http://www.thestar.com/Athome/article/202202
"Website helps avoid shoddy contractors" … (1 comments)
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tips: Moving Checklist - 04/16/07 07:44 AM
Here's another handy list from HGTV.ca (http://www.hgtv.ca/realestate/re_tools_check_moving.aspx). This would be a terrific handout for clients.
I'm curious to know if any stagers include a packing service along with the decluttering process or do you simply instruct the homeowner on which items can be put away before you return to stage the rooms.
… (3 comments)
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tips: Open House Checklist - 04/16/07 06:45 AM
If you go to the HGTV.ca website (http://www.hgtv.ca/realestate/re_tools_check_openhouse.aspx) you can download a handy "Open House Checklist" in pdf format.
In this section you'll also find other useful tools like a "Mortgage Calculator", "Real Estate Glossary" and a "Home Buying Worksheet".
I should note that all of this information is sponsored by Coldwell … (10 comments)
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tips: Credit Report & Rating (for Canadians) - 04/15/07 03:33 PM
Before buying a home, it's a good idea to check your credit report and rating. Did you know that you can get a summary of your credit history mailed to you, free of charge?
Equifax Canada - www.equifax.ca (1-800-465-7166)
TransUnion Canada - www.tuc.ca (1-866-525-0262)
Northern Credit Bureaus Inc. - www.creditbureau.ca
If you have difficulty … (0 comments)
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tips: Stain Busters - 04/15/07 03:15 PM
According to an article in WISH magazine, the best tips for rescuing fabric when disaster strikes are:
BAKING SODA - best for blood, crayon, sweatWHITE VINEGAR - best for alcohol, deodorant, sweatHYDROGEN PEROXIDE - best for chocolate, and as a whitening agentSODA WATER - best for red wine, beets, berries, grape juiceLEMON … (7 comments)
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tips: National Home Show - Toronto - 04/13/07 08:01 AM
Don't forget the National Home Show starts today (April 13) in Toronto. It takes place at the Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place through to April 22.
Here's a link to the Show site for ticket information -
http://www.nationalhomeshow.com/ME2/Sites/Default.asp?SiteID=80EA9EABB89F4FAFA51E00279F3D0AC4
There was also a good article in the Toronto Star today, about the … (1 comments)
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tips: Recycling On-line ! - 04/13/07 07:48 AM
Someone just told me about this international online service for recycling of goods - it appears to have everything from furniture to sporting goods and toys.
A great way to pick up some staging pieces or unload things that you no longer need.
http://www.freecycle.org/
It is part of the Yahoo Groups, so you … (1 comments)
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tips: Furniture Consignment Stores - 04/04/07 07:01 AM
I believe I mentioned this in one of my comments on another blog entry, but I'll post it here for everyone in the Toronto / GTA. This furniture consignment store is a great place to pick up staging inventory or pieces for clients - they carry everything from full suites of … (3 comments)
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tips: Painting - 04/03/07 08:55 AM
I found this great article on the HGTV (Canada) site, by Benjamin Moore color expert Jane Lockhart. It is entitled "How to Paint Just About Anything" and includes tips for painting surfaces like tile, panelling, laminates etc. Good to know for those quick fixes when staging a home.
http://www.hgtv.ca/articles/articledetails.aspx?ContentId=1915&cat=1&by=3
Jane's TV show - … (5 comments)
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tips: Realtor Safety - 04/03/07 08:08 AM
I found this article some time ago on the Interior Redesign Directory website, which some of you may be aware of. It is entitled Safety First: Before Listing Your Home, Remove That "Block of Knives"
(My apologies if it has already been posted here)
This is a good reminder for Realtors and homeowners … (1 comments)
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tips: Another Resource Site - 03/30/07 12:50 PM
Here's another link to one of my favorite resource websites -
http://www.homebasics.ca/viewarticlesection.asp?subgroup=HD
It is a Canadian site. They have many useful and interesting articles on home and garden topics and you can also sign up for their email newsletter.
This article in particular was a good read - "Surviving the Home Renovation"
http://www.homebasics.ca/viewarticle.asp?articleid=3339
Enjoy !
… (3 comments)
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tips: Antique Shops & Flea Markets - 03/29/07 07:26 AM
I always love to browse and enjoy the thrill of finding old treasures. If you are in the Ontario Region, you'll like these links with a handy list of antique shops and flea markets.
http://www.antiqueshopsa2z.com/ontario.htm - If you navigate back to the home page on this one, it looks like a complete North American directory … (2 comments)
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tips: The Writing on the Wall ... - 03/28/07 11:12 AM
Wonderful Graffiti - vinyl wall art
This is a great way to add personality and individual character to any room. They do provide design professionals with a sample kit if you are interested. There is a wide variety of words and phrases to choose from in different colours and styles. You can … (9 comments)
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tips: The Hurried Woman (or Man) and Stress - 03/28/07 08:50 AM
It's that time of year where we start to notice things again ... new growth, chirping birds, the neighbours. We also start to pay attention to what might have been neglected over the winter ... our gardens, garages and even our own health. Here is some good advice for all of … (3 comments)
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tips: Some of my favorite things ... - 03/27/07 11:18 AM
There is so much information to be found on the Internet with respect to our industry (and for our personal knowledge as well). We could search and read endlessly. But I have found several sites that I keep going back to because they are lively, fun and easy-to-read.
Just thought I … (7 comments)
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tips: Product Recalls & Warnings - 03/27/07 08:22 AM
The following website link (from the Ontario Fire Marshall's Office) contains frequently updated information on various product recalls and warnings for consumer safety purposes. http://www.ofm.gov.on.ca/english/Fir...ls/default.asp
If you are not in Ontario, I'm sure your local jurisdication would have a similar resource available. Again, this is something worth sharing with your clients / … (2 comments)
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tips: Color Resources - 03/25/07 03:39 PM
For those of you interested in color as it relates to redesign or staging (and who isn't ??), the Sherwin-Williams paint company has a great website with a lot of information.
http://www.swstir.com/use.do?method=topics
Also, I would be interested to know who has heard of the Dewey Color System - http://www.deweycolorsystem.com/default.htm and what are your thoughts … (5 comments)
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tips: Home Improvement Projects - 03/25/07 03:30 PM
For those that missed it on the HGTV.ca website, here is a great article on the "Ten Home Improvement Projects that Add Value" - http://www.hgtv.ca/articles/articledetails.aspx?ContentId=2113&cat=4&by=2
Why not start on some of these projects while you are still living in the home and can enjoy the effort of all your hard work ?
And … (5 comments)
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tips: ReDesign Industry - 03/25/07 10:28 AM
http://www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/businessideas/article160010.html
This article on how to get started in the redesign industry appeared on the http://www.entrepreneur.com/ website in June 2006. It was a great boost for us redesigners - more and more people are taking notice and getting interested. ReDesign is definitely NOT just a trend, it is a very specialized niche … (4 comments)
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tips: Spring Cleaning - 03/25/07 10:11 AM
Can you feel the energy of a new season emerging all around you? The days are longer, the birds are singing every morning. It certainly is my favourite time of year. I feel inspired to do something around the house, but you can bet cleaning isn't exactly my first choice. Painting perhaps - … (1 comments)
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tips: ReDesign Staging - 03/21/07 08:30 AM
Take any room from cold to cosy, again using exclusively what the homeowner has. None of these pieces work particularly well together - the size and scale is off - but my recent group of students managed to pull of this look. Needless to say the homeowner was thrilled with the … (9 comments)
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tips: More Staging Photos - 03/19/07 09:42 AM
Thank you fellow members for the positive feedback on my other blog entries. These photos demonstrate how another very sparse room can be made to look warm & inviting. Again we used only what the homeowner had available. Our only recommendation was the addition of an area rug to anchor the … (3 comments)
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tips: Accessorize with Style - 03/14/07 04:15 PM
Quick Tips for Accessorizing with Style
A collection is 3 or more - but always use an odd number. This will reinforce the rule that triangular shapes are visually pleasing.Look at colour, theme, texture and shape when forming a collection - 3 Native carvings; 5 square objects; 7 blue items.Make sure items … (0 comments)
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tips: Staging Photos - 03/14/07 04:07 PM
A good example of how to stage an empty room or one that is under utilized. The space was likely intended for a home office or small library, situated on the main floor of $600,000+ home in Oakville. This job was done together with my colleague Tamara Welbourn. All of the items used were already … (3 comments)
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tips: Spring is Here - 03/13/07 04:09 PM
Spring is just around the corner. Here are some quick tips to help lift your spirits and get you ready to enjoy those beautiful longer days.
Roll up the rugs and take down the heavy draperies. Let the sunlight in - your rooms will thank you. Take time to enjoy the … (0 comments)
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tips: The Art of Hanging Art - 03/13/07 04:02 PM
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. But it takes more than a hammer and nail to make a statement. Whether you have an original Monet or a print from Ikea, here's how to make the most of it.
The most common mistake is hanging artwork too high. Forget about … (0 comments)
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tips: Depth Perception in Aging Eyes - 03/09/07 02:22 PM
Have you ever heard of the "ginger-ale effect"? Perhaps some of you have already experienced it.
This condition occurs because of a gradual yellowing of the lens of the eye. It starts, on average, around the age of 65 but not everyone is affected in the same way. Do not confuse the … (1 comments)
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tips: Garage Sale Season - 03/09/07 02:20 PM
It's a great Canadian tradition and a fabulous way to recycle. When you are downsizing or simply moving to a different home, it can be overwhelming. Here are some tips & tricks for a successful sale.
sort your items by category, such as books, kitchen ware, toys etc.pick a date and an … (0 comments)
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tips: Small Spaces - 03/09/07 07:33 AM
Make the most of your small space or re-invent the spare room. Here are a few ideas:
look for multi-purpose furniture such as taller tables that can do double duty as added counter space, chairs and ottomans with storage and sofas that turn into beds.organize your things with vertical storage options that free up … (0 comments)
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tips: Decorating for Teens - 03/08/07 12:14 PM
For anyone who has ever lived with a teenager or pre-teen, you know there are two things they can never have enough of - STORAGE SPACE and MONEY. Let them sweat about the money - maybe they'll learn the value of hard work and effort. But give them storage, lots and … (0 comments)
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tips: Bedroom Retreats - 03/08/07 12:12 PM
Our rest and relaxation is so important to good health and happiness. Why then do we often neglect our bedroom décor? Why do we retreat and awake in rooms filled with clutter, laundry, ironing boards and old magazines? Do yourself a favour and reclaim your sanctuary.
Declutter - Remove the kids' toys, clothes … (0 comments)
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tips: Color Therapy - 03/08/07 07:22 AM
Call it colour therapy if you will. Probably the most important element in any room, the right colour will immediately invoke the right feeling. The challenge lies in choosing that exact shade to match your mood. Here are some basic guidelines:
Red - immediately creates drama, passion and excitement.
Yellow - will brighten … (0 comments)
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tips: ReDesign Your Rooms for that Special Occasion - 03/07/07 09:28 PM
A lot of people avoid entertaining at home simply because they feel their space is lacking in some way. They fuss and fret that the living room décor seems dated or the room feels too small.
But a lot can be done to correct these problems in just one hour, one … (0 comments)
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tips: What is ReDesign? - 03/07/07 03:50 PM
The term is now quite popular, and the concept is simple. Yet many people are unclear of how a redesign can benefit their space. Think of it as a make-over, facelift or rejuvenation of the beautiful things you already own. Imagine your rooms as those shown in a model home. You … (0 comments)
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tips: Home Staging Tips - 03/07/07 02:57 PM
• De-clutter each room• De-personalize and keep those personal items out of site• Focus on the positive selling features of each room• Create a focal point in the living, dining and family rooms• Create a serene atmosphere in bedrooms and bathrooms• Neutralize the décor to appeal to more buyers• Edit and remove unnecessary furniture and accessories• Remove fridge … (1 comments)
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tips: Get Your Asking Price ... or More - 03/07/07 02:55 PM
If you are thinking about putting your house on the market now and hope to sell, move and get settled as quickly as possible - home owners take note. The average buyer has little imagination when it comes to projecting themselves into a resale home. Even though you spent countless hours … (0 comments)
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