Life at Home • 16 April 2024

Green Home Initiatives for Earth Day: Sustainable Living Tips for Homeowners

by Tammy Kyle

As Earth Day approaches on April 22nd, there’s no better time to reflect on our impact on the planet and take steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle. One area where individuals can make a significant difference is within their own homes. From energy-efficient upgrades to eco-friendly renovations, there are countless ways homeowners can contribute to a healthier planet while also saving money on utility bills. In this article, we’ll explore some green home initiatives to inspire you to make environmentally conscious choices this Earth Day and beyond.

1. Energy-Efficient Lighting:

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce energy consumption in your home is by switching to energy-efficient lighting options. Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL bulbs, which use significantly less energy and last much longer. Additionally, consider installing motion sensors or smart lighting systems to further optimize energy usage and reduce waste.

2. Improve Home Insulation:

Proper insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing heating and cooling costs. Inspect your home for areas where insulation may be lacking, such as attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Adding or upgrading insulation can help prevent heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer, all while reducing your carbon footprint.

3. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances:

Older appliances can be energy hogs, consuming unnecessary electricity and driving up utility bills. Consider upgrading to ENERGY STAR certified appliances, which meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. From refrigerators and dishwashers to washing machines and water heaters, ENERGY STAR appliances can significantly reduce energy consumption and save you money over time.

4. Harness Solar Power:

Harnessing the power of the sun is not only environmentally friendly but can also lead to substantial long-term savings on energy costs. Installing solar panels on your roof allows you to generate clean, renewable energy to power your home. Many governments and utilities offer incentives and rebates for solar installations, making it an increasingly attractive option for environmentally conscious homeowners.

5. Reduce Water Usage:

Conserving water is another important aspect of sustainable living. Simple changes, such as fixing leaky faucets, installing low-flow showerheads and toilets, and watering your lawn and garden during off-peak hours, can help minimize water waste. Consider collecting rainwater for irrigation or investing in a greywater recycling system to further reduce your water footprint.

6. Embrace Sustainable Materials:

When renovating or remodeling your home, opt for sustainable building materials whenever possible. Choose bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood, recycled glass countertops, and low-VOC paints and finishes to minimize environmental impact and improve indoor air quality. Supporting eco-friendly products encourages responsible manufacturing practices and helps preserve natural resources for future generations.

As stewards of the planet, we all have a responsibility to reduce our environmental footprint and protect the Earth for future generations. By incorporating these green home initiatives into your lifestyle, you can make a tangible difference in preserving our planet’s resources while creating a healthier and more sustainable home environment. This Earth Day, let’s commit to taking action and embracing a more eco-friendly way of living.

Elevate Your Space: Budget-Friendly Spring Home Decor Tips

by Tammy Kyle

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your living space. If you’re looking to infuse your home with a refreshing spring ambiance without breaking the bank, we’ve got you covered. Here are some creative and cost-effective home decor ideas that are perfect for homeowners and renters alike.

1. Floral Accents

Embrace the vibrant spirit of spring by incorporating floral accents into your home decor. A budget-friendly way to achieve this is by opting for artificial flowers and plants. They not only add a pop of color to your space but also require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for those with busy schedules.

2. Seasonal Throw Pillows

Swap out your existing throw pillows for ones that feature light pastel colors or floral patterns. This simple switch can instantly brighten up your living room or bedroom, giving it a delightful springtime feel. Look for affordable options at local discount stores or online marketplaces.

3. DIY Wall Art

Get creative and craft your own wall art to add a personalized touch to your home. Consider framing botanical prints, creating a gallery wall of nature-inspired photos, or even painting your own abstract pieces. Not only is this a budget-friendly option, but it also allows you to showcase your artistic side.

4. Fresh Linens

Invest in fresh linens for your bedding and dining table. Crisp, clean linens in light, airy colors can instantly transform the look and feel of a room. Look for budget-friendly options during seasonal sales or consider upcycling old linens with a bit of dye for a custom touch.

5. Rearrange and Repurpose

Sometimes, all it takes to rejuvenate a space is a little rearranging and repurposing. Move furniture around to create a new layout that maximizes natural light and flow. Consider repurposing items such as glass jars, baskets, and crates as decorative elements or storage solutions.

6. Accent Lighting

Introduce soft, ambient lighting with the use of string lights, candles, or inexpensive decorative lamps. These lighting options can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying spring evenings indoors.

7. Botanical Centerpieces

Gather a few budget-friendly vases or mason jars and create simple yet elegant botanical centerpieces using fresh or faux flowers and greenery. These centerpieces can serve as stunning focal points for your dining table or mantelpiece.

8. Nature-Inspired Fabrics

Incorporate nature-inspired fabrics such as burlap, linen, or cotton into your decor. Consider using these fabrics for table runners, cushion covers, or even as drapes. Their organic textures and earthy tones can evoke a sense of the outdoors inside your home.

With these budget-friendly spring home decor ideas, you can effortlessly infuse your living space with the delightful essence of the season. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, these creative and cost-effective tips will help you achieve a refreshing spring ambiance that’s easy on the wallet. Happy decorating!

7 December 2023

Winter Wonderland: Elevating Your Home’s Curb Appeal in the Cozy Season

by Tammy Kyle

Winter has arrived, bringing with it a serene landscape blanketed in snow and the promise of cozy evenings by the fire. While the colder months may pose unique challenges for maintaining curb appeal, there are plenty of ways to make your home shine even in the winter wonderland. Let’s explore some landscaping tips, outdoor lighting ideas, and other tricks to ensure your home remains inviting and charming during the chilly season.

1. Evergreen Elegance:

While deciduous trees may have shed their leaves, evergreens stand tall, providing a touch of greenery against the winter backdrop. Incorporate evergreen shrubs and trees into your landscaping to maintain a vibrant and lively look throughout the season.

2. Winter-Flowering Plants:

Add a pop of color to your front yard with winter-flowering plants. Pansies, winter jasmine, and ornamental cabbage can thrive in colder temperatures, bringing life and vibrancy to your garden beds.

3. Strategic Lighting:

As the days grow shorter, lighting becomes a crucial element of your curb appeal strategy. Illuminate pathways, trees, and architectural features with strategic outdoor lighting. Consider warm-toned lights to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

4. Festive Decorations:

Embrace the holiday spirit with tasteful and elegant decorations. Wreaths on the front door, string lights along the porch, and seasonal planters can add a touch of festive charm without overwhelming the exterior.

5. Winter Maintenance:

Clear walkways and driveways of snow and ice promptly. Not only does this ensure safety, but it also presents a neat and well-maintained appearance. Don’t forget to trim any overgrown branches that might obstruct views of your home.

6. Cozy Outdoor Seating:

If space allows, consider placing a small seating area on the porch or near the entrance. Add cozy cushions and blankets to create an inviting spot where potential buyers can imagine themselves enjoying a cup of hot cocoa on a crisp winter day.

7. Reflective Surfaces:

Strategically place reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or metallic accents, to bounce light and create the illusion of a larger and brighter outdoor space.

8. Window Treatments:

Highlight your home’s architecture with seasonal window treatments. Consider using wreaths or garlands to frame windows, adding a touch of elegance to the exterior.

9. Maintain the Mailbox:

Don’t overlook the mailbox! Keep it in good condition and consider adding a seasonal touch, like a wreath or a bit of greenery.

10. Clear Gutters and Downspouts:

Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and properly functioning. This not only contributes to the overall appearance but also prevents potential damage caused by ice dams.

As the temperatures drop, let your home radiate warmth and charm. By implementing these winter curb appeal tips, you’ll not only capture the attention of potential buyers but also create a welcoming haven for friends and family. Embrace the beauty of the season, and let your home shine in the winter wonderland!

17 January 2023

How to Decorate When You Want Constant Change – January 2023

by Tammy Kyle

A new year means new changes! Maybe you’ll be making a move this year, maybe you’ll want to redo your space – but what happens if you want to make another change down the road? Whether you’re a renter with changing roommates or have a kid with changing tastes, with these tips, you’ll be able to refresh your home with a mind to making easy changes whenever you need to.

Wallpaper used to be a slog, but several brands now offer the convenience of peel and stick wallpapers that you can remove with ease. Take the opportunity to add funky patterns on an accent wall, and why not mix and match if you really want something different. But if the zebra stripes clash with the polka-dots, peel away for easy removal with no permanent damage to your walls.

The best part about a movable bar cart is how easy it is to slot this useful storage item into any corner of your home when you need it. You could go from having a convenient bookshelf in your bedroom, to a craft caddy for kids, to an actual moving bar when guests are over. A reliable bar cart is there wherever and whenever you need it.

Your bed is the centerpiece of your bedroom, so switch up its look with a reversible duvet cover! Whether you feel like a pattern one week or a solid neutral the next, flipping the duvet is an easy way to change the focal point on your room to match your style at a moment’s notice.

If you love displaying your pictures and are constantly taking new ones, skip the hassle of frames, and consider putting up a couple of photo ledges. These shallow shelves allow you to put up as many pictures as the space allows, switch them out whenever you’d like, and accent your ledge with small succulents and other décor. Plus, the shelf could be a nice pop of colour on an otherwise neutral wall.

The best way to keep kids from doing permanent damage to the walls, consider chalk wall decal stickers that can be as large or as small as you like. Whether you want to cover an accent wall in a kids room and let them go wild or just have a panel in your kitchen to keep a grocery list, these pieces can be utilitarian or creative, depending on what you need for your space. The best part is that they’re removable if you’re ever tired of getting chalk dust everywhere.

Turn a blank wall into an art gallery with some canvas art! Here are some fun ideas to make your own artwork that will stand out in any room.

Perfect for a cold winter’s day, this chicken skillet is a healthy, simple meal that is ready in 30 minutes and takes only one pan for easy clean up.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2021 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

© 2021 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership, #profile_org#
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system.

The trademarks REALTOR® , REALTORS® and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association.

Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract. Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation.

This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and either notify the sender at the above e-mail address or by telephone at #profile_phone#.

Life at Home • 17 January 2023

Tips for Storing Your Holiday Decorations – December 2022

by Tammy Kyle

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And that means it’s time to spend hours finding, detangling, and dusting all your holiday decorations that have been crammed into storage for the year. Then in a month, you’ll spend even more time trying to stuff everything back into worn down boxes. Let’s break this cycle with tips and tricks to make organizing and storing your holiday decorations really feel like the best time of the year.

Taking down your holiday decorations can seem like a daunting task and really feel like an end to holiday celebrations, but these easy steps will help make storing a breeze and set you up for success the following year. First, take a picture of every room so next year you’ll remember where each décor piece went. This will save you so much time and stress trying to remember your previous perfect set-up. Next, while you are packing up the decorations, take this time to declutter. Donate any unused or longer needed items and upcycle or throw out any broken pieces. This is also a great time to go through holiday cards as over the years they can take up a lot of space in your storage. Keep any cards that have a personal message, family photos, or sentimental value, then recycle or upcycle the remaining cards. Check out these fun holiday crafts using old cards. Following these steps will save you storage space and time and set you up for a great start to your packing.

Outdoor lights are usually one of the first holiday decorations that are taken down (usually so you don’t get judged by your neighbours if they are up too long). They can also be the most time consuming to put back up the following year because they get tangled in storage. There are many specialized storage bags and reels that will help preserve the lights; however, we have some cost-free solutions using materials you already have at home. If you have extra cardboard lying around, cut the box into rectangle pieces. On one end of the cardboard cut a small slit then slip one end of the light string in and begin wrapping the string around the board until you reach the end. Cut another small slit to hold the other end of the string. This storage hack will keep the lights detangled all year, saving you time, money, and storage space because you can stack or layer each light board.

Ornaments are some of the most fragile holiday decorations and often get broken while in storage. There are many costly storage solutions out there, but here are some DIY projects that will help keep your ornaments safe year after year. For smaller ornaments, use egg cartons. This is a great solution as each box can hold a dozen pieces and can be easily stacked to make storing easy. For larger ornaments, to-go coffee holders are a great option. Although they typically can only hold 4 ornaments, they are also great for stacking and can help keep your pieces safe and organized. Another DIY storage solution is to glue red solo cups to a piece of cardboard (ensure the piece fits inside your storage containers), then simply place ornaments in the cups. This is a great option if you have many different size bulbs as you can fit multiple into each cup, and just like the previous storage solutions, each cardboard piece is stackable to keep them secure in storage.

Artificial trees have many benefits over real trees; however, storing them can be very daunting. Because of their large size and weight, it can be hard to find a spot to keep them. Plus, it can take a lot of time and energy to set up the tree each year. A storage solution that will save you time and space, is to shrink wrap your tree. Starting from the top, section off branches and begin to shrink wrap them up. You’ll want to do 4-5 layers, so it is secure, then work your way down the tree in small parts. This will save you so much storage space. Plus, you can keep the lights on the tree, so next year all you have to do is cut off the plastic wrap and fluff up the branches. If mummifying your tree doesn’t work for your storage, you can also use an old or thrifted hockey bag. These are great storage solutions as they can hold so much (more than enough room for all your tree accessories) and many come with wheels making it easy to place and remove from storage.

Here are a few other tips for storing those miscellaneous holiday decorations that will help save you money, time, and space. First, to help keep beads from tangling with other décor pieces put them into an empty plastic water bottle. This will save you so much time detangling and each bottle can hold two strings. Second, hang your wreaths in a dry-cleaning bag to keep the wreath dust-free all year and make storing easy by hanging them in any closet or on any hook. Next, use paper towel or toilet paper tubes to store cords. This will keep all the cords organized and prevent them from tangling, helping them last longer. Finally, include a detailed list of what is in each box and place it in a sheet protector visible on the box, this will save you time and make finding and storing a breeze.

If you have an old, out of date lamp lying around, upcycle it with a new, trendy shade that can show off your style. Check out this easy DIY project to create a high-end lamp without the cost.

Step up your apple pie this holiday season with this caramel apple pie recipe. It is sure to be a hit at any dinner party!

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Life at Home • 31 October 2022

Big Style Kitchens – November 2022

by Tammy Kyle

How you design your kitchen must be in accordance with your needs and priorities, as well as align with your future plans for your home. Here are some great design tips for creating an amazingly functional, yet beautiful kitchen that you will actually want to cook in!

Invest in great appliances. It is always important to select and purchase your appliances before beginning the design process in the kitchen. As the space is designed around the appliances, you must know the dimensions of your fridge, stove, and dishwasher before you can begin. Be sensible with selecting the sizes and buy practical appliances that fit your lifestyle. Appliances complete the look of your kitchen and quality is a must to ensure that they last several years for you and your family to enjoy.

Cover your appliances with the same finishes as your cabinets. This will create flow and unity in your kitchen.

Install a minimum of two glass doors for the upper cabinets; these can be placed in the corners or next to the range hood. By installing glass doors, you can use your best dishes or crystal glassware to accessorize your kitchen.

If the space allows, install a centralized island. An island will help create better functionality by giving you extra preparation area and extra storage space. It also adds bonus gathering and eating space for your guests.

Functionality is key, and there is nothing worse than a beautiful kitchen that is not functional. Account for all the preparation, cooking, and storage areas properly and design the kitchen around your specific wants and needs.

Lighting is also extremely important when designing a kitchen. Try to make use of both natural and artificial lighting in this space. Combine general lighting with task lighting in well-used areas. Consider accenting the island with decorative fixtures or installing under cabinet lighting above the counter space. Dimmers can also be installed to set the mood for entertaining.

If you’re looking to show off your best dishes with glass cabinet doors check out this quick and inexpensive DIY project.

Warm up on a cold night with this delicious chicken pot pie recipe.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

Life at Home • Life at Home • 5 October 2022

How to Really Live in Your Living Room – October 2022

by Tammy Kyle

Ironically the living room is the space that is lived in the least! Many people prefer to spend time in the family room or kitchen; however, it can be a huge waste of good real estate to ignore the living room. Saving the living room for a special family occasion or the holidays is a shame; it’s a room that should be used and enjoyed every day.

Treat the design and décor of your living room as beautiful, useable, and easy – not ‘special’. Think about how you live and what you want the living room to do for your lifestyle. Try using the living room as a multi-functional space for working, playing, and entertaining. Design your living room to be versatile, stylish, and easy to live in so that they can fulfil many roles. Use sturdy but lush fabrics like velvet and linen blends with fun patterns. Look for strong durable surfaces like stone and hardwoods, a variety of floor covering like sisal mixed with hides, persians or dhurries and accents that are amusing, personal and lend humour to the atmosphere.

Lighting is an important factor as well. To create a functional and well-lit space, use a mixture of overhead lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, up lights, reading lights, picture lights and candles.

Try to have enough seating for at least 10 people. Use a mix of sofas, easily moveable side chairs and stools for perching, plus lots of empty floor space for pillows. Tables showcase trays filled with objects that have special meaning but there’s always room for a cocktail or bowl of sweet or savoury treats. You can also incorporate a desk into your living room, which doubles as another server if a party breaks out.

Live in your living room – and don’t just save it for a special occasion or holiday. Use it to its full potential and create a beautiful and comfortable space where you can eat, drink and be merry – everyday!

Add a texture accent wall to your living room for a subtle visual impact.

These Pumpkin spice coconut bliss balls are the perfect seasonal snack to put out while entertaining. Plus, they are vegan so perfect for any guest!

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

9 September 2022

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist – September 2022

by Tammy Kyle

Book an appointment with a qualified company – annually for an oil furnace and every two years for gas.

This should be completed each month throughout the heating season. Ventilation systems, such as heat recovery ventilator filters, should be checked every two months.

Replace window screens with storm windows. Remove screens from inside casement windows to allow air from the heating system to keep condensation off window glass. Ensure windows and skylights close tightly. Replenish weather stripping as required.

Ensure all doors leading outside are shut tightly and check other doors for ease of use. Replenish door weather stripping as required. If there’s a door between your house and garage, check adjustment of the self-closing device to ensure it completely closes the door.

This will help prevent heavy snow and ice from bending ac blades.

Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall so water doesn’t drain into the basement.

Clean leaves from eavestroughs and roof, and test downspouts to ensure proper drainage from the roof.

Clear all obstructions such as nests.

Drain and store outdoor hoses. Close the valve to the outdoor hose connection and drain the hose bib (exterior faucet), unless your house has frost-proof hose bibs.

This includes everything from storing outdoor furniture to preparing gardens and, if necessary, protecting young/vulnerable trees or bushes from harsh winter conditions.

This simple and cost-efficient DIY built-in bookshelf will elevate the look and feel of any home.

With school starting up again, mornings can be a hectic rush out the door. Save valuable time with these make-ahead, freezer-friendly breakfast burritos for a quick and tasty breakfast.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Life at Home • 22 August 2022

Planning the Ultimate Summer Party – August 2022

by Tammy Kyle

Summer is here! Days are longer and warmer. What better way to welcome this lovely time of year than with a summer party. Whether you plan to have a casual summer brunch or go all out with a formal summer dinner party, we have plenty of ideas to get you started!

While not mandatory, you may want to pick a theme for your summer party. Here are a few fun ideas:

Celebrate summer with a garden party. Place flower seed packets under forks at place settings. Have guests decorate clay pots with vibrant paint colours and plant flowers to take home with them.
A summer recipe party allows you to show off your cooking skills and learn some as well. Prepare your favourite summer appetizer, main dish, or dessert and share your culinary secrets. Ask guests to bring their favourite summer dish along with the recipe to share with others.
Bring your fancy chairs outdoors for a traditional tea party complete with vintage China, floral napkins, and silver teaspoons. Have guests wear proper attire that includes gloves and fancy hats. Hang a chandelier from a tree branch for a touch of sophisticated charm.
If children will be present, plan an outdoors event with plenty of snacks and drinks. Celebrate afterwards with a bonfire (if permitted) complete with smores and warm blankets.
For a relaxed summer get-together with the girls, plan an outdoors spa day. Bring out all your nail polishes, creams and face masks and ask your guests to wear a robe and slippers for comfort. Create a grazing table filled with cheeses, fruits, and veggies and top off the spa experience with refreshing lemonade or cucumber water.

Stick to two or three colours and make one a neutral or barely-there metallic. For example, sky blue tablecloth with classic white scalloped dishes. Once you choose your colour scheme, you can incorporate them into your invitations, table decorations, and floral arrangements.

Decorations don’t need to be expensive. For example, a simple tulip placed on each plate or under each napkin ring is a small touch that goes a long way. Or for an outdoor casual brunch, place simple groupings of flowers into coffee and soup cans painted in summer colours.

Celebrate with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables along with some light refreshments. Colourful salads, finger sandwiches with deli meats, pasta dishes with fresh vegetables and fruit kabobs all make delicious summer dishes. For dessert, consider mixed berry parfaits or raspberry-blueberry cake.

Quench your guest’s thirst with delicious summertime drinks at a self-serve bar where they can meet and mingle with others. Include non-alcoholic drinks such as mixed berry iced tea, strawberry lemonade, or refreshing fruit smoothies. Serve in clear, glass pitchers with lemon and lime wheels or garnish with fresh mint. If serving cocktails, keep them fun and fruity. Bright punches and sangria are always a big hit. Champagne punch with apricot nectar or sparkling wine combined with fresh juice are also great choices.

Don’t forget to say thanks! Send each guest home with a favour that celebrates the season. For example, repurpose jars into charming vases and personalize them with a note of thanks. Allow guests to choose a few flowers from your arrangements to take home with them as favours. Classic floral teacups also make perfect pots for small succulents that can be used as party favours.

Summer parties are a great way to spend quality time with your family and friends and celebrate the season.

Elevate your cooler with this DIY ice chest project. It will be a hit at all your outdoor events.

If you’re looking for the perfect summer recipe, try out these grilled shrimp foil packets. They supply the same great taste as a shrimp boil but without the mess and save you time.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here