House hunting: finding the right fit
Jun 15, 2013 / 5:00 am
With so many choices and variables, how do you find the perfect fit? Before you start your search, it’s a good idea to narrow down the playing field by looking at what would fit you best. Here’s where to look:
Look Inside
What do you already own that your new home would need to accommodate? If your dining suite is one that you cherish, use often and happens to be huge, then add “large dining room” to your "Must Have List". Carry this logic through your space and you should come to some conclusions about what is essential in a new home. While you’re at it, take a look at your personal style; it can also give you valuable clues as to what you really want. For example, if your style tends more to clean lines and a modern look, then loft like spaces or open concept homes will probably hold more appeal.
Look Outside
What is out in the world that catches your attention? Is it a brick exterior or cedar shingles that make a house feel like home to you? Consider the different styles of houses that you like, and see if there are any common elements among them. Another place to look is at the style and size of any new items you plan to acquire. Taking an outside inventory of what appeals to you can help narrow down your search.
Look at Your Requirements
It's helpful to take a head count and look at what features are vital to each member of your family. How many of you are going to live there, and are any more expected shortly? How many of you need home offices or parking spaces or playgrounds or workshops? This will give you an idea of the size and number of rooms you require, as well as clues to locations or types of housing. Make sure you include pets and consider what's best for them. This may move a fenced yard to the top of your list.
Look at Your Lifestyle
Look at your lifestyle to gain insight to your best locations. If you’re planning to stay awhile, and are also planning on children (or already have them), then you’ll want to find a neighbourhood that’s kid friendly and has great schools. Another consideration should be your work commute. Make sure it has what you need, whether that’s access to public transportation or parking spots.
All in all, if you take the time to consider what’s really important to you, you should be able to find the house that is the right for you. Happy Hunting!
Remember we are always available to help answer your questions and to provide you with a FREE strategy session for your financing needs. Call us today (250) 862 1806 or email mtggal@okanaganmortgages.com
Designing a water efficient garden
Jun 1, 2013 / 5:00 am
You can create a lush, colourful garden that requires little maintenance or water by applying the seven principles of xeriscaping – an approach to designing landscapes so that their water requirements correspond to local climatic conditions. While these are sound principals for any garden, they are particularly useful if you live in a region with low rainfall or that experiences water shortages.
Photo: Thinkstock.com
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1. Design for your site and your needs
Sketch your lot including property lines, buildings, driveways and features that will remain. Add trees, shrub and flower beds, lawn areas, patios, decks, etc. Consider the specific conditions of your yard, taking into account that water requirements will differ in shady versus sunny spots, and slopes versus flat areas or depressions. Moisture availability for your plants will also differ according to your soil type. Sandy soils drain water whereas clay soils hold water.
2. Group plants with similar water needs to make watering more efficient
Shrubs and perennials should be grouped together in mulched beds. Trees should also be clustered in mulched beds rather than isolating individual specimens in lawn areas. This will help to reduce moisture loss and competition.
3. Amend the soil
First, find out what type of soil you have and improve its water retention capabilities accordingly, for example, by adding compost or other organic materials.
4. Size your lawn area to meet your practical needs for play and traffic
Avoid many small or narrow lawn areas in favour of consolidated lawn, to make them easier and more efficient to water. For primarily visual areas, consider water-efficient ground covers, perennials or shrubs. For foot-traffic routes or narrow spots, such as side yards, a permeable inert surface such as wood chips or natural stone requires no water.
5. Choose plants that are well suited to your climate and site conditions
Consult your local garden centre to find plant lists. Know your site including its soil types. In shady areas, use shade-tolerant species or consider a woodland shade garden. In sunny spots, use drought tolerant, sun-loving species or consider a wildflower meadow. Drought tolerant species should be used on rapidly draining slopes (avoid turf grass), but you can consider moisture-loving plants in depressions or low spots.
6. Use mulch
7. Use an efficient irrigation system and appropriate maintenance
If you have any questions or need any help with refinancing your home to build this or other projects please call 250-862-1806 or email mtggal@okanaganmortgages.com.
Tips for a stress-free summer move
May 18, 2013 / 5:00 am
The majority of Canadians prefer to make their big move during the summer season. There are a variety of reasons for choosing this time of year: it is easier to transport boxes in non-icy conditions, no need to worry about your belongings freezing during transport, and children's lives are not disrupted by the transition since they are on summer holidays. Minimize potential moving chaos by asking yourself the following questions:
- Do you need to keep everything? Moving offers a good opportunity to reorganize your life by giving away, donating or recycling items that you no longer need. You'll thank yourself later when there is less to pack and transport.
- How well do you know your moving company? The Office of Consumer Affairs drafted a Consumer Checklist for choosing a moving company and it reminds Canadians to request their moving estimate in advance and be mindful of seasonal rates (a summer move can be pricier). Will your items be held in the transport vehicle overnight or a secure facility? Consider purchasing Replacement Value Protection, which will ensure the company is liable if your possessions are damaged.
- Do you have enough boxes and packing materials? Start collecting boxes and newspapers in advance; ideally you should begin packing non-essential items a month in advance. Pack and clearly label a couple boxes with important first day arrival items, such as toothbrushes, remote controls, medication, and pet food, which could otherwise become lost in the shuffle.
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Once you step in the door, what are your top priorities? After the bed is set up, most people are eager to get connected by hooking up their TV, internet and home phone. Rogers introduced a free concierge service which makes this process easier by setting you up with a personal concierge agent. The agent proactively connects with customers throughout the transition, reviews order details, answers billing questions, and can assist with any changes to your order if your moving date needs to shift. Entering the next chapter of your life can be a thrilling time, but like any significant life change, the process can be quite overwhelming. Control potential moving chaos by jotting down questions and tracking their completion on your personal checklist.
Remember we are always just a phone call away (250) 862-1806. We have names of moving companies & insurance agents to help you.
Selecting the right mortgage planner
May 4, 2013 / 5:00 am
"Other than Mortgage Rate, what factors will I be considering when choosing who gets the privilege of managing my Mortgage?"
I think the "Shopping Around" for a mortgage is a good thing to do. If you do shop around I would like to HELP YOU do so more intelligently by giving you a process to help screen your next potential bank or mortgage company. I think simply asking around for the "best interest rate" isn't good enough anymore.
- Be Smart...
- Ask Questions....
- Get the Answers!
If you would like to have a list of the questions to ask then please email me at mtggal@okanaganmortgages.com or call 250-862-1806.
Read more Home Finance articles
- Establishing credit history Apr 20
- Is home ownership right for you? Apr 6
- How to save with the way you pay Mar 9
- Lifetime approach to better fiscal fitness Feb 23
- Checking out your new neighbourhood Feb 9
- Teach your children how to save Jan 26
- Time to make a move Jan 12
- Goal setting & resolutions Dec 29
- High credit score for borrowing Dec 15
- Managing your mortgage Dec 1
- Building your financial muscle Nov 17
- House hunting: the right fit for you Oct 20
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