Livability maximized

Late revisions benefited bungalow-style show home

In the world of new-home designs, subtle changes to a home’s design can’t be overlooked. Why? Because a home’s livability can be changed in a substantial way by modifying a design in one or two key areas. Case in point is 37 . . .

Posted: 2014-02-15

Good bones

Home built in 1940s affordable, well-maintained

When you're a young family looking for a move-up home, two to three features tend to be top-of-mind. First, that home needs to be affordable. Second -- if at all possible -- the location needs to be as family-friendly as possible. . . .

Posted: 2014-02-15

GARDENING: New kids on the block

Wicked colour for your garden in 2014

No room in your garden for any of this year's latest plant introductions? Not planning to pot up any containers on your balcony or patio? Then read no further, because even a hint of details about just a few of the . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

CONNIE OLIVER: Get creative with all that bonus space

In many newer homes you often see an area called a "bonus space." This can be anything from an oversized staircase landing to a wide hallway that has room to house a small desk and chair. These spaces are not large . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

Have fun playing the frame game

I am often frustrated when shopping for the perfect picture frame. There's plenty to choose from but the ones I find are either all alike, too ordinary or too expensive. I'm no carpenter, but years ago I learned how to . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

National survey sheds light on home ownership

In 2010, the federal government replaced the long-form census questionnaire with a voluntary household survey called the National Household Survey. It produced some interesting results that can give us some national direction on housing. To no one's surprise, those in the . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

MIKE HOLMES: Finding financing for home renos

Home-equity loan could be best option

"Can I afford a renovation?" It's the question many of you might be asking yourselves as you plan ahead and start thinking about new home projects. Maybe you want to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, or finish the basement. But it . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Cap that sump pit to combat humidity, radon

QUESTION: I have an interesting question for you about our house, which is in the country and about eight years old. Should a sump pit in a basement, next to a forced-air electric furnace, be capped to vent outside? I . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

SOLUTIONS: Rotate freezer items for maximum freshness

QUESTION: I have an upright freezer. Being a senior, I can access all my frozen goods. However, bread gets dry, frozen vegetables get freezer burnt, etc., when I place food on the shelves of the door. What is the best . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08

Sold & Offered: Feb 8-14

SOLD: Linden Woods Address: 5313-173 Victor Lewis Dr. Asking Price: $199, 900 Sold Price: $200, 000 Taxes: $1, 878 Square Footage: 892 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Listing Agent: Vijay Guliani, Realty Plus Inc., 204-897-0800 Fort Rouge Address: 489 Rathgar Ave. Asking Price: $184, 900 Sold Price: $180, 000 Taxes: $2, 053 Square Footage: 748 Lot . . .

Posted: 2014-02-08