New mortgage rules cool housing market

Initiative aimed at Vancouver and Toronto affects Manitoba

A federal policy meant to address overheated housing markets in Toronto and Vancouver introduced one year ago has significantly impacted the housing market right here in Manitoba. On Jan. 1, 2018, Canada’s banking regulator, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Keeping it local

Food gardener offers tasting tours, shares her bounty with chefs

When Tiffany Grenkow decided to forgo a paycheque so that she could raise her children full-time, she searched for an alternative space to her shady backyard where she could grow a substantial amount of her own food. An economic decision . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Mirror placement can have negative consequences

Feng shui guidelines shine light on reflection

So I’ve got a new thing — it might actually be that rare disorder called "binge mirroring." Of late, I’ve been adding more mirrors to this humble old abode than probably your average person would consider "normal." Yeah, well, normal can . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

No need to sacrifice style for function

Sage Creek show home equipped with many upgrades

Contrary to popular thinking, a new home doesn’t have to be huge — or be filled with the finest finishes — to offer all kinds of function and style. All you have to do is visit 19 Wildflower Way to see . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Why rent when you can own this beauty?

Like-new townhome perfect for first-time homebuyers

The renting-versus-owning debate has gained new momentum due to challenging conditions in the home-buying market. In particular, one demographic group — millennials — has been opting to rent instead of buying a home. That rationale has been driven by two factors. First, the . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Mega Chances to Change Lives

For many Manitobans the idea of purchasing a St. Boniface Hospital Foundation Mega Million Choices Lottery ticket is a chance to win phenomenal prizes, which it is. However, it is also a chance to feel good about giving back. The purchase . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Shower stall upgrade takes messy turn

Massive pipe blockage found during bathroom project

The job began much like most other shower stall upgrade projects: an initial meeting with the clients to discuss their ultimate reno objectives, how in-depth the demolition will be, and of course choosing the desired tile, shower faucet and sliding . . .

Posted: 2019-01-19

Sealing off garage attic aids in fire protection

Current building code requires dividing barrier to extend up to roof

QUESTION: My home was built in 2005 and I just noticed that the attic in the attached garage is open to the attic in the home. Is this a problem in terms of fire protection and heat loss? The attic . . .

Posted: 2019-01-19

Grow heuchera for foliage or flowers

There are some plants we grow for their flowers and others we grow for their foliage. We’re also influenced by a plant’s shape and size and how well it plays with others in the grand-design scheme of things. Heuchera (coral bells) . . .

Posted: 2019-01-19

New-home development aims at all budgets

Flexible design meets varied price points in Bonavista

As recently as three years ago, families in the market for a new home had the world by the tail. With interest rates still low and no additional costs associated with buying a new home, well-appointed homes measuring in excess of . . .

Posted: 2019-01-19