Home design planning is a crucial step in the construction of a house. It requires careful consideration of various factors—namely space utilization, aesthetics, functionality, and many others. To ensure that all these requirements are met, it is essential to have reliable sources for research. Some that can provide great aid are ebooks. Aside from being an easily digestible form of content, ebooks also have the distinct benefit of providing access to a vast range of credible and relevant materials. To illustrate, WordsRated reports that nearly 13 million ebooks were published in 2022 alone. In addition, an article entitled Why are Ebooks Important? states that these resources are money-saving, time-saving, and accessible—factors that are invaluable for busy homeowners.

Where to access ebooks on home design planning

Ebooks on home design are available on various online platforms. That said, digital libraries can make finding relevant design ebooks even more convenient. Ebooks on Everand make up an extensive collection in a single repository, all of which can be accessed for a low monthly fee similar to the cost of one physical book. They can be viewed on desktop websites and are free to download on mobile as an app. Among Everand's many different titles and genres, they feature a lot that is relevant to home design planning. This includes works from reputable authors like Amy Azzarito, a design historian and expert on decorative arts, and the editors of Creative Homeowners, with helpful titles like The Elements of a Home and the Ultimate Book of Home Plans.

Ebooks are also available in cooperation with local learning institutions. For instance, there's the Libby application, which includes titles from public and university libraries. It allows patrons to borrow and download a diverse range of home design resources for free, including popular titles like Home Extension Design by Julia Owen and Design a Healthy Home by Oliver Heath.

With their numerous benefits of diverse content, practical advice, and accessibility, it's clear that ebooks are essential companions for anyone looking to create their ideal home design. As such, below are some aspects in which ebooks can help home design plans.

Aspects of home design planning that ebooks can help with

Design inspiration

One of the main advantages of ebooks for home design inspiration is the sheer volume of content available. From basic information like Elements of Style by Erin Gates to themed decorating guides like Cozy Cottage & Cabin Designs by Design America Inc., there are ebooks covering every aspect of home design. With the overwhelming number of things to accomplish based on our post Things to Do Before Moving Into Your New Home, ebooks can help address one of them by helping create a general design plan.

The digital format of ebooks ensures quality images and illustrations, making it easier to visualize design ideas. Instead of having to rely on vague descriptions or small, low-quality pictures in traditional books, ebooks offer stunning visuals that can spark ideas and ignite creativity. Additionally, many ebooks allow for annotations and note-taking, which can be useful for keeping track of ideas, creating mood boards, or making design plans.

Budgeting costs

Ebooks on home design cover a wide range of topics, including tips for budgeting and cost-saving strategies. These ebooks can provide valuable insights on how to plan and prioritize expenses, as well as how to get the most out of your budget. Homeowners can learn about different ways to cut costs without sacrificing style or quality by reading titles like First-Time Home Buyer by Scott Trench or Home Buying 101 by Jon Gorey.

The frequency in which ebooks are published and updated compared to physical books also allows them to better provide insights into the latest trends and innovations in home design. By staying informed about the newest materials, technologies, and design ideas, individuals can make informed decisions about where to allocate their budget for the best long-term value. This can ensure that money is spent wisely on elements that will stand the test of time.

Technical aspects

Ebooks provide in-depth technical information in a clear and concise format, from titles like DIY Home Improvement Manual by Jackson Bennett to Fundamentals of Residential Construction by Edward Allen. Unlike traditional print resources, ebooks can offer interactive features that can help users visualize and understand technical concepts. This can be especially beneficial for homeowners who may not have a background in technical design but still want to be informed and involved in their home improvement projects.

Moreover, ebooks are often updated regularly to reflect the latest industry standards, building codes, and best practices. This ensures that readers have access to the most current and relevant technical information, enabling them to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in home design.

 Article written by Rosalie Jaen

Exclusively for

Balance Real Estate Group

Photo Credit: Ketut Subiyanto via Pexel

You’ve just bought a new home—congratulations! Now it’s time to get it clean and ready
for move-in day. Here are some tips from Balance Real Estate Group on how to make
sure your new home is fresh and free of allergens, pollutants, and other unwanted
debris.

Make a Cleaning “To Do” List

First things first: give everything a good wipe-down. This includes all surfaces—walls,
floors, ceilings, windows, doors, cabinets, countertops, appliances—you name it. A clean
home is a fresh start for you and your family. Pay special attention to areas where dust
and pollen can accumulate, like window sills and ledges, air vents, blinds, and curtains.

These areas can be magnets for allergens, so it’s important to keep them clean.
Don’t forget about your floors! Vacuum regularly and mop often, using cleaners
designed to trap dust and pollen. Medical News Today suggests keeping kitchens and
bathrooms clean and free of mould and mildew. These areas are prone to moisture, so be
sure to keep them well-ventilated and wipe down surfaces often.

Last but not least: don’t forget the outside of your new home. Sweep the porch, wash the
windows, trim the bushes—first impressions count! By following these tips, you’ll be
sure to have a clean and fresh start in your new home.

Safety Measures You Can Take While Cleaning

Be sure to wear a mask while you’re cleaning. A mask can prevent you from inhaling
dust, pollen, and other debris while cleaning. What’s more, open the windows while
you’re cleaning to let in some fresh air. This will help to circulate the air and keep your
home feeling clean and refreshed.

Also, consider adding a range hood to vent grease, smoke, and odors from your kitchen
to keep the air cleaner in the home.

Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Whenever possible, use eco-friendly cleaning products. These products are gentle on
the environment and won’t introduce harsh chemicals into your home. Plus, traditional
cleaning products can cause indoor air pollution, which can be harmful to your health.
So, it’s a good idea to switch to eco-friendly products whenever possible.

You can find eco-friendly cleaning products at most supermarkets and home goods
stores. Or, you can make your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients like
vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. The Good Trade notes that by using eco-friendly
cleaning products, you’ll be doing your part to protect the environment and keep your
family safe from harmful chemicals.

Additional Safety Measures

In addition to wearing a mask, there are a few other things you can do to stay safe while
cleaning your new home:

● Use gloves when cleaning. This will protect your hands from harsh chemicals and
debris.
● Avoid using cleaning products that contain harmful chemicals. Look for natural,
eco-friendly options instead.
● If possible, work in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhaling fumes from cleaners
and other chemicals.
● Take breaks often to rest and recharge. Cleaning can be physically and mentally
taxing, so it’s important to take breaks as needed.
● Have someone else help you with the cleaning if possible. Two people can get the
job done faster and easier than one person working alone.

By following these safety tips, you can stay safe and healthy while cleaning your new
home.

Is Your Home Ready for You?

Now that you know how to clean your new home, it’s time to get started! These tips will
help you get the job done quickly and efficiently, so you can enjoy your new home
worry-free. With a little bit of elbow grease, your new home will be sparkling clean and
ready for move-in day in no time!

Are you still looking for the perfect place to call home? Contact Balance Real Estate Group!

Whether you are just starting as an investor or have years of experience investing your money
profitably, rental properties should be one of the asset classes in your portfolio. Owning rental
properties offers certain advantages that are not available with other kinds of assets.

First, land is a finite resource; land supply will always be inadequate to meet the demand. Due to
population growth, urbanization, and economic growth, humans will always need more land.
Therefore, land is a resource that will never lose its value.

Second, the demand for real estate is based on real human needs. People need land to build
houses. We need land to grow food and build industries. Unlike assets where the demand is
artificial or seasonal, demand for real estate (and rental properties, by extension) will always be
strong.

These are the fundamental reasons why an investment in rental properties is a good choice. Even
if rental property prices fall during certain periods or in specific geographies, in the long run,
investment in rental property always proves to be highly profitable for its owner.

If you still need to invest in rental properties, here are ten reasons why you should.

10 benefits of investing in rental properties

1.  A source of passive income

Photo by PiggyBank on Unsplash

The number one reason to invest in rental properties is cash flow. A rental property in a
good location will produce substantial income on a steady basis for its owner. The rent
from an investment property is often enough to cover the cost of owning the property,
and there can be some money left over for the owner to declare a profit.

2. Access to unrivaled leverage

As the owner of a rental property, you do not have to pay 100% of the value of a property
to own it. This is because real estate investing offers the kind of leverage that is not
available with other investments. Lenders are willing to give you money to buy a rental
property if you can provide just 25% of the selling price of the property.

3. Real estate is diverse

There are two major categories of rental properties: residential and commercial real
estate. Within these two categories, there is a large array of subcategories. Investors in
rental property have the option to choose what kind of rental property they want to own,
and they also have a range of investment strategies to choose from.

4. Investors have control

If you are the kind of investor who likes to be deeply involved in managing your assets,
rental property investing offers you just that. Unlike with stocks and mutual funds, where
the decisions that affect the performance of your investment are out of your hands, with
rental properties, you choose the level of involvement you are comfortable with.

5. A self-sustaining asset

In contrast to stocks, which are self-depleting assets, rental property is a self-sustaining
asset. It would be best if you liquidated the asset to get your profits from an investment in
stocks. This is not the case with rental properties; you do not have to sell them to make
money from them. You can earn from the monthly rent on the property. You can also
benefit from your equity in the property.

6. Profit through capital gain

Two ways investors make money from rental properties are cash flow and appreciation.
Real estate values always go up long-term, even if there are short-term price dips. If you
buy and hold a rental property, you are guaranteed to make a profit when you eventually
sell it. Moreover, you can influence how much money you make on that property by
renovating it.

7. You can tap your property's equity

When you use leverage to buy a rental property and make the monthly payments on the
mortgage faithfully, with time, you will build substantial equity in the property. Lenders
will let you borrow money against that built-up equity. This borrowed money can be a
down payment to buy another rental property to help you expand your portfolio.

8. A slew of tax benefits

As a rental property owner, you can maximize profits through tax-deductible expenses on
the property. The list of tax-deductible expenses is long and includes many everyday
costs you incur in managing and maintaining your property. These tax-deductible
expenses offer you an avenue to boost your profits.

9. A way to diversify your investment portfolio

Savvy investors minimize risk through diversification. By spreading their funds across
several asset classes, they ensure that adverse events in one asset class do not wipe out
their entire portfolio. Buying rental properties can diversify your portfolio further if you
already have significant investments in stocks, commodities, or bonds.

10. You can start building generational wealth

Almost all families with wealth that spans many generations have some of that wealth
held in real estate. Because land is finite and demand for real estate never goes away,
owning rental properties is one of the best ways to hold your wealth and safely pass it on
to your heirs.

If you plan on investing in rental properties, contact Balance Real Estate Group today to see how
we can help you buy your first rental property!

There are many opportunities for older adults to thrive as they age. While
assisted living communities offer convenience with various amenities, there are
still many seniors who choose to age in place in order to continue living
independently. Choosing a home for aging in place already involves the
consideration of various factors such as a friendly neighborhood, responsibilities
for upkeep, and homeownership costs. The process, however, continues after
finding a home and community as the residential space has to be upgraded for
maximum mobility, usability, and accessibility. Here are some of the best ways to
upgrade and modify the lifelong homes of seniors aging in place.

Apply for federal funding

Upgrades that make homes easier and safer to live in require a significant
financial investment. As such, there is a federal funding program dedicated to
seniors aging in place. With the help of organizations experienced in helping and
advocating for seniors, you can access the essential support and services in your
living environment, from health and safety to social connection and engagement.
Eligibility for the funding is offered to organizations that provide direct service
delivery to beneficiaries and plan to expand previously demonstrated services.
The services must address common barriers to aging at home, which include but
are not limited to financial costs, inaccessible rural areas, and inadequate
culturally-appropriate services.

Invest in smart home devices

Technology also plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life. Even if you
don’t consider yourself tech-savvy, there are user-friendly and intuitive smart
home devices that require no permanent change to the home space but still
make your day-to-day life easier.

Voice-controlled technology like Amazon Echo and Google Home can assist with
making calls, setting reminders, and scheduling appointments. When it comes to
home maintenance, a guide to buying robot vacuums emphasizes how this semi-
autonomous device makes cleaning more streamlined and efficient, while also
having specific features for navigation, sterilization, and self-charging. Lastly,
automatic lighting is a small investment that has huge returns for your safety and
convenience since you don’t have to worry about fumbling for the light switch in
the dark.

Set up medical alert systems

Assistive technology can also come in the form of medical alert systems/devices
that offer emergency help with just one click. There are now easy-to-use
smartphone apps where you can pre-set personal contacts and health services in
the case of medical emergencies.

Wearable tech like watches and necklaces are mainly used for tracking your

health-related metrics ranging from heart rate and blood pressure to physical
activity and water intake. But they can also be used as an alarm system and a
two-way communication device between the wearer and the emergency contact.
There are in-home systems that can be connected to WiFi or cellular services for
an expansive signal range wherever you are on your property. While medical
alert systems are relatively inexpensive, they can be a life-saving tool for seniors
who live independently but need immediate assistance.

Safety-proof the home

There are mobility and safety challenges that come with aging, but these can be
addressed through appropriate home modifications. Since slips and falls can lead
to hip fractures, brain injury, and even death, grab bars reduce the physical
hazards in dangerous and slippery spaces like the bathroom. There are also
transfer benches that enable elders to enter and exit the bathtub even

while unassisted safely. Meanwhile, flooring modifications should prevent tripping and
falling, especially when seniors use mobility technologies like wheelchairs,
walkers, canes, or crutches. Safety-proofing should also consider outdoor
spaces; there must be ramps with handrails leading a clear path to the front door.

With the help of Balance Real Estate Group, the process of finding homes for
aging in place and then investing in its upgrades and modification becomes more
seamless and much easier. We utilize a team-based approach to make these
efforts collaborative and perfectly suited to every client's unique needs,
preferences, and lifestyle.

Article written by Rosalie Jaen

Surrey, BC, Canada, is a beautiful city with a rich history, tons of access to nature, and close proximity to Vancouver. Unfortunately, the climate and geology both contribute to foundation damage, so under-home issues are prevalent in and around the city.

Below, we’ll be discussing the most common foundation issues, the underlying problems that cause them, and the most appropriate solutions for each. We’ll also discuss some red flags that indicate foundation problems and the importance of a foundation inspection to identify them.

Common Foundation Issues in Surrey, BC

Unfortunately, there are quite a few foundation problems that frequently occur in Surrey. We’ll explain each of them below, along with the most likely cause.

Foundation Cracks

Every foundation will crack at some point after it’s poured. Most cracks are just superficial and form from the natural settlement of the concrete under the weight of the house above. There are a few different types of cracks you might find, all of which should be remedied with foundation crack repair.

Hairline cracks on the basement floor or running vertically on foundation walls are typical from settling and aren’t structural. In other areas, these could safely be ignored. However, given the excessive rainfall in Surrey, it’s best to have them sealed to prevent water intrusion.

Horizontal cracks on the foundation wall are much more severe. These form when the clay soil that is prevalent in Surrey soaks up water and expands, placing hydrostatic pressure on the foundation wall. Eventually, the concrete gives way to the stress and shifts inward. 

Horizontal cracks almost always indicate structural damage and need to be stabilized immediately. The best solution is typically to install earth anchors, which stabilize your foundation wall against the expanding soil. In Surrey, these can total between $2,000 and $7,500, depending on the extent of the damage and the length of your wall.

Stair-shaped cracks on the foundation wall are just as dangerous in most situations. They develop when the expansive soil around your home swells and shrinks unevenly, leaving sections of your foundation to settle more quickly into the ground than others.

These cracks typically require stabilization with supportive piers placed underneath your home. In Surrey, this solution can total between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the number and type of piers required.

Water Intrusion

Residents of Surrey are well-acquainted with the above-average rainfall in the area, which typically totals over 100 inches per year. This amount of water falling around your property can easily find its way through your foundation, either through settling cracks or directly through the pores in the material.

The above-average rainfall is problematic enough on its own. However, the risk of water intrusion becomes more severe when coupled with absorbent soil that holds water against your foundation and the hilly topography in Surrey, which can cause pooling near your house.

Water intrusion can damage building material, like sheetrock, floor joists, studs, flooring, and insulation. It can also promote mold growth and make your under-home area more enticing to insects.

One of the most permanent solutions to water intrusion and moisture accumulation is a basement waterproofing system. Your system in Surrey can range from $2,500 up to about $10,000. It may include a French drain system, an interior drainage system, sump pumps, dampproofing, soil gradation, a gutter system, and more.

Foundation Red Flags in Surrey, BC, Canada

Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Surrey or you want to identify and fix issues quickly to minimize repair costs, the below red flags will help you locate foundation damage in your home.

Foundation Cracks

One of the easiest ways to identify foundation damage is to inspect the inside of your basement for cracks. Vertical cracks and hairline gaps on the floor are common and usually of no significant concern. However, you should have a professional waterproof them for you.

Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on the walls and wide or uneven gaps on the floor are much more severe. These usually indicate structural damage and should be inspected by a structural engineer immediately.

We recommend inspecting your basement once every few months just to keep track of any changes, including widening or lengthening gaps. Any growth or appearance of cracks years after the home is built should be a red flag.

Water or Moisture in the Basement

Given the prevalence of water problems in Surrey basements, any signs of water or moisture should serve as red flags. Head down into your basement about once a month to look for symptoms of water intrusion.

Note any dampness or musty odors in the air, which are reasonable indications of a moisture problem. Look for mold growth on the walls, as well as a flaky white powder, which is an accumulation of minerals from intruding water that has evaporated into your basement.

Check for water trickling in through cracks, water stains on the walls and floor, and any symptoms of pest infestation.

Damage in Your Living Space and Outside

Finally, you can identify foundation red flags upstairs in your home and your yard.

As you walk through your house, look for signs of foundation movement. These include cracks in the sheetrock around doors and windows, doors or windows that don’t open or close easily, uneven flooring, and cabinets or countertops pulling away from the walls behind them.

When you head outside, look for uneven roofing, a leaning chimney, and cracks in the siding. These symptoms indicate foundation movement in most cases. You can also inspect your yard for areas that pool water, as these can indicate soil expansion below that can be detrimental for your foundation.

Wrapping Up: Why a Foundation Inspection Is Necessary

Home foundations are at severe risk of damage in Surrey, so inspecting your under-home area regularly for symptoms of a problem is crucial.

Foundation problems typically worsen over time because they are under immense stress. Identifying issues early and having them inspected and repaired by a professional will almost always save you money in the long run.

Moving is hard. With a military move, factors to consider don't come with the normal stresses of moving: travel, thousands of miles away from family and friends, new cultures and people, and the deployment itself.

For most, a military move isn't an option. It's a necessity, and there are strategies to make the journey smoother.

Here are some tips for your military move:

1. Prepare

Getting ready for a military move is stressful but necessary. You need to prepare yourself and your family with the right information, so you aren't taken by surprise when it comes time to pack up all of your personal belongings, say bye to loved ones, and head out on the open road.

The first place to start is contacting your unit's Family Readiness Officer (FRO). They can help you know what the process is and how to prepare for all of it. There's a lot to look into with your military move so try not to miss an important date or deadline.

2. Prepare Your Family

Your family will want to take in a new culture just as much as you do. They'll want to participate in the local festivities and explore the new area as much as possible.

For some, this is a viable option; for others, it's not. Below we've listed different scenarios and how to prepare your family if you choose so:

If You're Moving Overseas

This one is a bit different than the normal military move. With an overseas military deployment, your family doesn't have to come with you, but if they decide to, there are some things to consider that might help make their life easier when they arrive in-country.

With this scenario, you and your spouse should explain everything about the culture, local laws, and customs. If you are still confused, here's a military moving checklist which covers most of the points. There will be an abundance of information that you'll need to provide for them, so they are prepared as much as possible for the move and deployment.

Try not to overwhelm them with information but prepare them just enough to know what is going on around them. An example would explain different ways to communicate, types of transportation, local laws, and customs.

Being prepared will help make the transition easier for everyone and put your mind at ease knowing your family is in good hands.

If You're Moving to a Different State/Province or Country

As we mentioned above, most of the time, a military move isn't an option, but when it is, you need to get ready for a new adventure.

A military move to a different state/province or country is very pricey, and depending on the travel distance, it can take you months to get there, even years. The other option is if you're not driving, which most people don't want to do for that long, but if you are, then try to make sure your family understands what's going on.

They are probably scared and nervous about the move too, so again, make sure you or your spouse is a good point person for information.

3. Travel Preparation

Depending on what service you're in, it can take months to get settled into your new living arrangements. This doesn't mean that you have to wait until then to start getting the house ready for your family.

Start as soon as you get word of where you're going, especially if it's overseas. You can't live in base housing, so the sooner you find a good place to live and move into, the better.

Moving is hard on everyone, but it seems that much harder when you're doing it by yourself. But it's not just about you and your spouse. You need to be able to think of your children, too, so make sure you find a good house for them while still allowing your family time to adjust before the move day comes.

4. Local Amenities

As soon as you have an address, tell everyone in your family. They will want to start looking into schools, local things to do, and local laws.

Start making a list of everything they'll need from doctors' offices to clothing stores. Make sure everyone is in the loop, so you don't have any surprises while you're settling into your new home.

5. Shipping Your Belongings

One of the hardest things about moving is that most soldiers don't have the luxury of driving their belongings to their new duty station. Most military moves are made via shipping, so your family might have to start making arrangements ahead of time to get everything they need to be shipped over.

If this, is you, then you're in for a tough road ahead of you? You will have to contact each company individually and find out the cost of shipping everything over.

Not only will it be expensive but also time-consuming, so you might want to start making some arrangements early on before you're given an E-day date.

6. Pet Preparation

Depending on what service you're in, there are some restrictions for shipping your pet. Depending on the branch of service and their regulations, you might be able to take a pet or not.

If you do have a pet, then make sure that you get everything ready so when they tell you that day is the day your pet can be loaded onto the truck and taken with you.

You'll want to keep on top of how everything is going with the paperwork, vaccinations, etc. Upon arriving where you're going, your pets will need a health certificate, so make sure they have had all their shots before being shipped out.

7. What to Do Before You Leave

As you get closer and closer to your E-day, or even when you know that it's right around the corner, there are a few things that you should do just for yourself.

The last thing you want is to be in your new home and miss old friends, so make sure before leaving that you schedule time with them so when you're settling in, everyone can be happy to see each other.

This might be hard on them if you have kids, but it's also nice for them to get some downtime with the friends they've made before starting a new school, so maybe plan a dinner or just something simple where your family and friends can hang out together.

Conclusion

Military moves can be a pain, especially when you're doing it and not your spouse. You are dealing with the family issues and the move itself, so it's important to know what steps to take early on before you even get your E-day information.

It can be not easy but at least make sure that you have someone to keep you in check and tell you what needs to be done as soon as possible.

Make sure that you're not the only one getting prepared for your move because if you are, it will all fall on you, and it might make moving stressful. So, make sure that everyone is on top of their game, so when E-day finally comes around, you can be as relaxed and stress-free as possible.

As heat waves hit various parts of Canada, locals are trying to protect themselves by staying indoors and cooling themselves down. Due to the extreme weather, many people are relying on their air-conditioning units to be able to beat the heat. Unfortunately, some homeowners are experiencing problems with their own air-conditioning units, causing local air conditioning service providers to be busier than normal.

The extreme heat and the need to have air-conditioning units on at all times is causing more units to break down. To prevent experiencing this problem in your own home, here are some simple cleaning and maintenance steps that may benefit you in the short and long-term:

Clean the AC unit regularly

One of the most common mistakes that homeowners make is not cleaning their air-conditioners on a regular basis. Over time, dust and debris can build up in the air filters, evaporators, condenser coils, or cooling fins. This build-up may make it harder for your air conditioner to produce its usual temperatures.

When cleaning air-conditioners, experts emphasize that air filters need to be attended to every one to two months, while the entire unit must be cleaned at least once a year. Although you can do the cleaning on your own, the removal and installation of the parts can be tricky so it’s advisable that you leave it to the experts.

If you do decide to clean your unit yourself, you can start by switching off and unplugging your unit before removing it from the wall. Take off the front panel so that you can vacuum any dust or grime attached to it. Straighten the bent cooling fins with a fin comb then clean the unit casing with a solution. Use the same solution to clean the front panel, condensation drain pan, casing, and window fins. Gently scrub all the parts and wipe away the excess debris before letting it dry. Make sure that the parts are spotless and dry before reinstalling the unit.

Replace the air filters

Is your air conditioner still releasing warm air or taking longer than 30 minutes to cool the room even when you’ve cleaned the unit? This is an indication that it’s time to change the air filter. But before doing so, turn off the unit first. Open up the air vent to remove your old air filter. Make sure that the airflow arrows on the filter are directed towards the unit before you place the air filter inside. Close the vent and turn the unit on to check.

Keep the unit’s area clear

Because your air conditioner is releasing hot air, it’s important to keep the surrounding area clear from any blockages. Any obstructions, like plants or furniture, can block the airflow and cause your unit to malfunction. Though the condensers may be a little bulky and unsightly, it’s important to keep the area clear so you can keep the pressure down and improve the lifespan of your air conditioner.

Set the thermostat properly

It’s convenient to leave on your air conditioner all day long, even when your house is empty. Entering a cool room is refreshing after a long day under the warm sun. However, leaving the thermostat at a low temperature for too long can damage your unit and increase your electricity bill.

Extend its lifespan by adjusting the thermostat every time you leave your home. You can also invest in a programmable thermostat, which adjusts the temperature during scheduled hours.

At the end of the day, you need to maintain and clean your air conditioner so that it can work optimally. However, make sure that a professional gets to check your unit regularly so that they can help you extend its lifecycle and keep it working at a high standard.

For more home maintenance tips, be sure to check our blog here.

Specially written for Balancerealestategroup.com

By: Rosalie Jaen

Many of us fall into the habit of putting things off for a later time — procrastinating and saying, “That’s future me’s problem.” In fact, a staggering 20% of the population actively engages in habitual procrastination, and psychologists claim that it’s because we have a tendency to try and avoid doing things that we deem unpleasant.

Unfortunately, procrastinating and leaving things up to future you can have a massive impact on you, especially when it’s about your health. Procrastination has been found to be linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension, and could trigger anxiety, depression, and rumination when done in excess.

Instead of putting things off for future you, why not do future you a favor? There are a number of things you can start doing today that will help you down the line — and they don’t even have to be all that involved or unpleasant! Here are just some of the things you can do to help future you:

Get enough sleep

You’d be surprised how much impact getting enough sleep can have on not just your body, but your mood as well. About 1 in 4 adults reportedly fail to get enough sleep every night, often due to poor sleep hygiene, chronic stress, and a more sedentary lifestyle. Getting enough sleep is easier said than done, of course — we live busy lives, and we may often
find that we don’t have enough hours in the day to do everything that needs to be done and get enough sleep. Practicing proper sleep hygiene — avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
before bed; reducing noise in your sleeping environment; and maintaining a regular bedtime – can be a huge help in accomplishing this.

Declutter

Clutter — and mess, generally — can have a negative impact on your mental health. Clutter can annoy you, distract you, and cause feelings of stress, fatigue, and depression.

Decluttering may be something that you’ll want to put off for a later, but getting over the initial unpleasantness can help future you a lot. Decluttering reduces stress and leads to better sleep, too! However, it’s a long process that you’ll want to slowly chip away at. Take things one step at a time and slowly declutter your space. Future you will thank you for it!

Be more cautious with money

You may not realize it, but money (and worrying about money) can be a huge source of stress for many of us. By setting aside money for emergencies, managing spending, and making good investments, you can slowly ease financial anxiety.

A good rule of thumb is to build an emergency savings pool that can cover 3 to 6 months of essential expenses, and to make smart, cautious investments that are sure to pay off in the long run. Invest in a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) and don’t withdraw the funds until you actually retire. This is to avoid the fees that are a result of withdrawing your RRSP early, such as higher taxes and administrative fees. Purchase a house when you can, but make sure that your housing payments don’t exceed 35% of your gross monthly income. This way, you can build better financial habits that future you can benefit from.

Don’t stop learning

The best thing you can invest in is yourself, and if you want to secure your future, you should never stop learning.

This doesn’t necessarily mean getting a post-graduate degree — although higher educational attainment has been found to lead to lower unemployment rates. After all, learning can be
achieved everywhere. From reading new books to experiencing new things, or even just engaging in conversations with different people, it’s possible to learn something new every day.

Go natural

It may be more convenient to rely on products made with harsh chemicals, but these can have long-term effects for both you and the environment!

Always opt for natural solutions whenever you can. Eat organic food and shop sustainably, as this can also help support local farmers. Choose natural cleaning solutions for your home, as using store-brand chemicals could wear on your furniture much faster than natural alternatives. Use natural beauty and skincare products too -- they may seem more expensive at face value, but the long-term savings and effects they'll have will have future you thanking you for making the switch!

Maintain your property

The importance of maintaining your home can't be emphasized enough. Whether you plan to live in it or are intending to sell it at some point in the future, a well-maintained home can
make all the difference.

Don't put off repairs when the need arises. Always clean out your gutters, fix leaking pipes, and unclog your bathroom drain. There's nothing more frustrating than realizing that you could
have averted disaster had you spent a few minutes repairing something when you first noticed it was broken. Maintaining your home, furniture, and appliances not only increases the value of your home, but also saves you headaches down the line.

By doing these things and tackling things as they come instead of putting them off for later, future you can enjoy the benefits of all your hard work.

Specially written for balancerealestategroup.com
By: Rosalie Jaen

Are you planning to move house in the near future? If so, you likely feel a mixture of excitement and stress.

Indeed moving house can be a wonderful time in life, a new chapter, new beginnings, and many prospects ahead. Yet getting from A to B can feel more than a little overwhelming. Of course, many factors can make the move less stressful; however, one of the major ones lies in choosing the right moving company. If you make a good choice, you can alleviate lots of worries and concerns, and if you choose the wrong one, you will only add to those already high-stress levels. So, how do you make a wise choice? Read on, and we will be happy to advise you!

Know Your Needs

The first step in making a good choice is knowing your needs. Do not be tempted to rush this step. Instead, sit down with a pen and paper and write down the rooms in your home and what you need to move. This will highlight any items that are going to need specialized equipment or skills. Things like an acoustic piano, large or awkward pieces of furniture, wall art, and the list go on; all of these need to be highlighted to a moving company, and you, as the homeowner, need to feel that the company you choose can suitably care for your belongings.

Decide Whether You Are Happy To Do The Packing Yourself

This is going to be a significant factor in helping you choose the right company. Some companies offer a full packing and moving service, while others only provide moving service. You may be happy to pack up your home yourself and have a company arrive on the day to move your things from A to B. Of course, this will be a cheaper option; however, you do need to consider whether you have the skills and materials to pack everything securely. Sometimes the extra cost is a good investment in ensuring that everything makes it to your new home safely.

Get Recommendations

Next up, it's time to get a few good recommendations within your local area. Since moving house is a common occurrence, this step should not be a difficult one. Once your friends, work colleagues, and neighbors know of your plans, you are sure to get recommendations, even if you don't ask for them! Please take note of names that seem to come up a few times, and don't forget to ask the people recommending the company why they liked them and whether there was anything they felt disappointed in.

Get Quotes Of Different Moving Companies

By now, you should have narrowed your search down to cheap moving companies nearby that have been recommended and that cover your needs (such as skilled in handling specific items or companies that offer a packing and moving service). Now, it is time to get a few quotes. Ensure that you provide a full brief of your needs to each company; this will help you accurately compare quotes on a like-for-like basis.

It's Not Always A Case Of Cheap And Cheerful!

Of course, when you are moving house, there seem to be ongoing expenses that keep rolling in. This can make it very tempting to opt for the cheapest choice for the moving company; however, this could be a decision that you live to regret. While you do not want to pay an excessive amount for a moving company, you also should expect to pay a reasonable fee for a good service. If a company seems to be offering a rate that looks too good to be true, there is every chance that you will end up with the result that was exactly that; not what you expected and for all the wrong reasons!

Check The Insurance

It is easy to presume that all moving companies have the best insurance, but unfortunately, this may not always be the case. Please do not be embarrassed to ask a moving company about the insurance that they have. If a company seems a little hesitant to provide you with full details on their insurance, you should swiftly move on. Remember, you are entrusting all of your belongings into the hands of a moving company, so making sure that they have the best insurance is an absolute must.

The Bottom Line On Choosing A Great Moving Company

There is no doubt that moving house can be a stressful time in life; however, making a good choice for the moving company can make a huge difference. Granted, it does take a little time and effort to make a good choice; however, it does not need to be a mission impossible.

Firstly, take the time to sit down, understand your needs, outline these with pen and paper. Next, decide if you are happy to pack up your house yourself or want a company that can care for this. Then move on to getting recommendations and once you have a shortlist, go ahead and contact the companies to get accurate quotes based on a full brief. Once you have decided on your top picks, make sure that they have the right insurance. After that, all that's left to be done is enjoy getting settled into your new home and the next chapter in your life.

It’s always beneficial to look for ways to make your home more eco-friendly. From conserving water to limiting food waste, reducing your carbon footprint is essential and easy to do while spending more time at home!

Each year, Canadians produce 31 million tonnes of garbage and almost half of all food produced is lost or wasted. Food that is thrown away ends up in landfills and creates methane, which is a harmful greenhouse gas. 

You might be asking, what can you do to reduce your household’s contribution to food waste? By incorporating different green methods into your home, you can help reduce food waste while also discovering self-sustaining projects that can benefit your garden. 

Composting is an easy and effective way to convert kitchen scraps and other materials into fertilizer that you can use to tend your garden and house plants. If you’re new to composting or you have been previously turned off by the idea of decomposing materials, don’t fear! In our guide, we will show you all the different ways to compost and limit food waste whether you have a small apartment or larger space to work with. 

What You’ll Need to Compost

Before getting started, let’s discuss what you’ll need to compost. There are four ingredients required to successfully compost. 

• Air: Organisms in your pile need oxygen to survive. 

• Water: Water helps keep the pile’s temperature regulated. 

• Brown Materials: Adds carbon to your pile.

• Green Materials:  Adds nitrogen to your pile. 

Adding brown and green materials to your pile such as dead leaves and grass help balance the nitrogen and carbon needed to compost. A good rule of thumb is that each time you add a batch of green ingredients, add roughly four times that amount in brown ingredients. Next, let’s cover what kinds of kitchen scraps you can add to your compost pile.

Greens

There are many different green materials that can be composted. This includes spoiled vegetables and fruits, grass clippings, tea and coffee and old flowers. 

Browns

Brown materials that can be composted include eggshells, vegetable peels and skins, nut shells, newspaper, dead leaves, cardboard and even wood shavings. Just avoid adding any weeds and plants that died of unnatural causes as they could spread diseases in your soil.

Since not everyone has the space to compost in their backyard, we’ve provided a few methods that you can use to compost in a small space or apartment. 

How to Compost at Home

There are several great methods to compost at home that are easy to learn and try. To help you get started, we’ve listed a few below. 

Method 1: Create a Worm Bin 

Worm bins are exactly as they sound...bins of worms! Also called vermicomposter, this process of composting includes using worms to break down and process food waste. This allows you to make fertilizer without needing to turn the pile since the worms are able to move freely mixing your compost for you. 

When creating a worm bin, make sure you provide the worms with proper living conditions. They need to be kept in a location that is 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit so keeping your bin under your sink or in a closet works best. You can either purchase a ready-made worm bin or create your own worm composter yourself. 

Method 2: Use a Compost Tumbler

Compost tumblers are larger than worm bins and are fully sealed to preserve the heat generated by your compost. Tumblers can decompose kitchen scraps quickly and turning is easy since they tend to come with a handle on the side. 

Method 3: Try the Bokashi Method

Bokashi is a two-step composting process that begins by fermenting food waste in a sealed container. With this method, you can compost meat and dairy, however, since there are no worms, you don’t want any moisture in your Bokashi bin.

Method 4: Use a Food Digester

Food digesters are electric and tend to be the size of a bread-maker. They can easily sit on your counter and won’t take up much space. Food digesters are free of any odour and use aeration and heat to reduce the volume of waste. 

Method 5: Donate Food Waste

For those who don’t have the time or interest in composting, donation is always a viable option. Many local farmer’s markets or community gardens will accept food waste and will do the composting for you. 

We hope this at-home composting guide inspires you to limit your household’s food waste and incorporate eco-friendly hacks into your home. For even more ideas on composting, check out this guide to urban composting.

All across the world some of us are living in lockdown, confined in our homes due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, it might be a good idea to deal with those projects that we are always making excuses for postponing.

If you find this relatable, this article will help you get through the basics of home renovation. Here, you will find a list of tools that any beginner should have if they want to renovate their house. Why spend large budgets on contractors when you can have all the fun?

So, grab your shopping list and pen - let’s get started!

Safety First

You must be aware that this type of work can cause serious injuries, and that is why it is essential to provide yourself with protecting material to avoid accidents that might happen.

Safety Glasses

These are essential to every kind of task that you might do. Eye protection is fundamental to prevent possible damage caused by dust or some tool. Besides, you should get more than one pair as they get dirty, fogged, and can get broken or even lost.

Hearing Protection

Safety Ear Muffs are a crucial tool if you are planning on doing loud works such as operating a shop vacuum or drilling.

Protecting Mask

This one should be easy to find in every home (due to the actual pandemic situation). In case you have to sweep a lot of dust or work with tools that when in contact with some materials produce a lot of dirt, you should have a mask or even a cartridge respirator for more protection - your lungs will thank you!

Match the Tool to the Job

If you aim to complete each task with high-quality results, plus save yourself some time and money, you should find the right tool for each job. Beyond the well-known supplies - hammer, ladders, lighting, tapes, saw blades, and pliers - some tasks may demand the efficiency of a power tool.

Floor Drum Sander

Floor sanding is a hard, long, and challenging task. If you don’t own the proper machine, not only the job can take days to complete when it could have been finished in hours, but the results will be far from what you’ve expected.

A great example of this type of machine is the Clark’s Az-8 Floor Drum Sander - this is a professional machine that can take on huge surfaces quickly while also being comfortable to work with. Best of all: it delivers an exceptional finish. You can also check some other models at SanderScore.

Cordless Drill

These are helpful tools with the feature of not having a cable to connect to the electricity, which can be easy to manage. When using this kind of machine, you can drill holes and drive screws but, the only downside is that it takes from 15 minutes up to 3 hours to charge. But faster isn’t always necessarily better.

Jigsaw

Jigsaws are ideal gifts for people that love solving puzzles, but they are also power tools that can create a rounded shape cut in materials like sheets of wood. They come in a vast range of prices, but none will break the bank - these are actually the cheapest kind of power tool that money can buy. If you are planning on manually contouring some cuts, you should think about getting a jigsaw.

Clean Everything at the End

Besides ensuring all safety measures and choosing the best tool for each job, to complete the task we must guarantee that the place is well cleaned and organized. For that, we will need several objects, such as brooms, shop vacuums, and coveralls.

Do It Yourself

I hope that at the end of this article you will feel motivated to move forward with the projects that you may have at home. As you can see, remodeling is so much more than a hammer and a few nails: become a DIYer and make the best of your time at home!

Almost everybody moves at some point in their lives.

I’ve always been fascinated at how most humans, myself included, adapt our belongings to fill our living spaces. Everyone has a unique threshold for this, of course, but even a functional minimalist is likely to uncover forgotten junk and gems when packing up for a move.

As much of a hassle as moving can be, I’ve always appreciated how the experience of moving challenges me to evaluate which items I value, and those I don’t.

Preening during a move has greater utility than just space saving or exercising personal preference. It can also be a matter of health and hygiene.

Here are 5 common kitchen items that you should consider closely before packing them up for transit to your new place.

Cooking Oil

Most cooking oils are expensive, and it can feel conflicting to toss out a mostly full bottle(s) you just discovered at the back of a tall cabinet.

Think twice before bringing old oil into a new home. Cooking oil has a shelf life, and it can be dangerous to consume once it has expired.

As an example of this, extra virgin olive oil has up to a 2 year shelf life from the month it was picked and pressed. Once you've opened a new bottle of olive oil, use it within 60 days.

Many people buy a bottle of fancy olive oil, use it sparingly, and then stash it away for a special occasion. Once you open it, the oil will never be as delicious as it is today. 

Unfortunately, the downside of old oil isn’t only off-peak flavours. It is unhealthy too. The unsaturated fat in most cooking oils oxidizes with exposure to light, heat and oxygen. Oxidized fats can disrupt cellular function across trillions of cell membranes in the human body.

Pots and Pans

Take stock of your cookware when moving.

Some pots and pans are built for a lifetime, perhaps several lifetimes. For example, our kitchen uses a cast iron fry pan that is a century old and 3 generations deep.

We also use a PTFE-coated nonstick pan periodically, when we’re searching for a fast cleanup. Like most nonstick pans, we are 5 years in and this one is past ready for recycling.

If your cookware is warped, flaking or otherwise not performing properly then perhaps it’s time to trade up. Consider picking up a clad steel cookware set for the replacement. It will last a lifetime like cast iron while being more responsive and lighter weight like nonstick aluminum.

Cutting Boards

Your cutting boards weren’t meant to last forever. 

They pick up nicks and grooves with regular use, and these cavities can become the perfect places for bacteria to grow like E. Coli or salmonella. 

Even with regular cleaning, it’s smart to be aware of when a plastic, wood, or glass cutting board is past its prime.

Plastic cutting boards may be the easiest material to clean. You can toss them in the dishwasher. Unfortunately, they also groove out very easily and may require replacement in only a few months.

Wood cutting boards are more limited in how you can clean them, because several common cleaners will damage the wood. Unfortunately, porous wood boards also absorb liquids like juice from meats cut atop them. This means they can become fertile ground for bacteria growth.

Glass cutting boards may be the most durable and easiest to clean, but they will dull your knives quickly. They are also very loud.

Perhaps the best overall solution is to rotate plastic cutting boards for cutting meat, and a wood board for everything else. When the wood becomes cut and grooved, sand it down. 

However you upgrade your cutting board collection, be sure that you are cleaning them regularly and in a way that best suits the base material.

Sponges

As you might expect, sponges are an incredible collection point for bacteria.

Virtually every person with a kitchen uses a sponge, dish cloth or bristled brush daily. Sponges are typically the most affordable option, and can be durable without disintegrating for much longer than you should actually use them.

Sponges are porous, which makes them effective at their primary job. This material property also creates an environment where liquids and food particles linger. Such an environment is fertile ground for bacteria to grow.

It’s good practice to replace your sponge periodically, with many cleanliness experts recommending as often as once per week. Others say that with an excellent sponge maintenance routine, which is a high bar, that you might consider replacing monthly.

You’ll get no judgement from me if you’re still using a sponge from last year. We’ve probably all been there before, and I certainly have on several occasions.

To level up your sponge cleanliness routine, be sure to rinse and remove any food debris after each use. Wring out the sponge in its entirety, and store in a place where the sponge can easily air dry. 

If you don’t have a routine in place, during a move is a great time to start.

Cooking Utensils

When moving you should always take stock of your spoons, spatulas and other cooking utensils. 

Similar to cutting boards - cuts, cracks and crevices can be a breeding ground for bacteria to grow.  This is especially true with wooden or silicone spatulas, and any cooking utensils that fasten two materials at a loose or removable joint.

Cracks and joints are typically spaces that handwashing and even dishwashers can’t reach. Old oil and sauces may clog the gaps and become rancid. You can often pick up on this fact with a simple smell test. If something smells “off,” it probably is.

Wooden spoons will collect cuts and cracks, and silicone spatulas will sometimes melt or split. From a pure functionality standpoint it can be helpful to upgrade periodically as well.

If you’re not moving. 

Even if you’re not moving, it’s smart to build a kitchen hygiene routine. 

Nobody plans to accumulate rancid old oil, or to use a sponge until it has diminished to nearly nothing. 

Still, we get busy, life continues to move onward, and one day you may realize that the back row of your cupboard is full of items that expired last year. It happens, and often we only discover when we are packaging up our lives for transit to a new abode.

Taking account of your cooking oil, pots and pans, cutting boards, sponges and spatulas is a great spot to begin. You can start today, and it will probably take less than 10 minutes to familiarize yourself if you need to make any of these changes.

Set a reminder in your calendar or phone to alert you again in 6-months. Make the robots do the work of remembering so you don’t have to.

Healthy living often starts with awareness. You may also find this practice has a positive impact on your health and the evolution of your personal preferences.

Whether you’re moving, or just cleaning up, I hope these tips have helped you find easy actionable ways to get started.

Author Bio