Home improvements you might regret

From pools to walk-in closets, here are some projects that may not be worth the effort

Between trying to save money and customizing a home to an exact lifestyle, homeowners can make some big mistakes. Whether they decrease resale value, go way over budget or increase maintenance costs, some renovations are better left undone. These are . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

Simple project makes huge difference

Foyer much more functional after revamp

After being in your house for a few years, you often realize what works and what doesn’t — in other words, it becomes apparent that certain features in your residence don’t serve your desires. When a room is too small . . .

Posted: 2019-01-26

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