Take steps before turning down thermostat in empty house

Question:MY husband and I will be spending six months in Florida and I would like to know what temperature you would recommend leaving our Winnipeg house at over the winter months to avoid cracking of drywall or other damage. In . . .

Posted: 2013-10-12

Baby boomers hold sway over housing market

There is considerable discussion in Canada regarding housing prices, who is buying houses and where and what is the immediate future of the housing market.Dealing with last issues first, there doesn't appear to be any end in sight for low . . .

Posted: 2013-10-12

Holmes sweet home

TV contractor part of team developing Fort Rouge condos

When it comes to Fort Rouge's newest condominium project, consumers can count on the fact it will be done right - the first time.That's because Mike Holmes - Mr. Do It Right the First Time, himself - has teamed up . . .

Posted: 2013-10-12

Start me up

All that's needed is a little TLC

These days, it's difficult to find a solid starter home for under $250, 000.There are, however, some exceptions to that rule. Every now and then, one comes along that's worth considering - with the proviso that you're willing to put . . .

Posted: 2013-10-12

When cutbacks are a GOOD THING

IT'S SIMPLE: The more you cut, the more blooms you will have

Colour is one of the main reasons for planting a flower garden. Perennials, depending on their bloom period and planting scheme, can provide glorious splashes of colour and intoxicating scent outside your door from spring to fall.It's a challenge in . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05

Making the cut... or not

An electric-tool primer for DIY builders and renovators

Cheap tools are the scourge of DIY builders and renovators. I say this because over the years I've fallen into the trap of purchasing inexpensive, blow-out-bargain-equipment that is shoddily constructed and guaranteed to produce unsatisfactory results 100 per cent of . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05

Thinking in threes

And other decorating tips to help you make your home beautiful

Something as ordinary as setting up a living space can be looked upon as a pleasant task or a frustrating trial. It might be time to re-arrange furniture in the living room, or add a chest of drawers to the . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05

Make sure your cookware is safe

Damaged or worn items could pose a risk for you and your family

QUESTION: I have a small Wear-Ever aluminum frying pan and the finish has been taken off on the inside. Therefore everything sticks like the dickens now! Is there any way I can re-season or coat it again so food won't . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05

It's all about the percentages

Pay your contractor in stages... and only for work that's done

I've seen too many renos fall off their tracks. And there are two big reasons why they do: First, homeowners hire a friend, family or neighbour to do the job; and secondly, they don't have a payment schedule tied to . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05

Sold / /Offered

SOLD:Valley GardensAddress: 43 Ravenhill Rd.Asking Price: $169, 900Sold Price: $170, 000Taxes: $2, 044.36Square Footage: 1, 100Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2Lot Size: 31 x 220Listing Agent: Glenn Kisil & Cheryl Kisil, Kisil & Associates Real Estate Ltd., 204-668-7878BeaconiaAddress: 35 Partridge BayAsking Price: $74, . . .

Posted: 2013-10-05