Be cheap; stay chic

No need to let a little economic downturn hamper your keen sense of style

There's no stopping style -- not even during a recession. Homeowners may not be out shopping for expensive high-end furniture and accessories but they're still bringing the designer look into their abodes with a new trend that has Canadians seeking cheap . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

The name of the game is picking the right paint

Colour's moniker may influence your choice

What's in a name? I've always been a bit fascinated by the marketing of products. How companies choose their product labelling and placement, for instance, is largely based on the human psyche. Which colours we prefer in certain situations is just . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Shower power

In-home spa can be a not-so-guilty pleasure

Dear Debbie; We are putting in a new bathroom and I'm feeling a bit guilty about planning an in-home spa with all the concerns about water conservation. How do you get around this dilemma? -- Bernadette Dear Bernadette: An excellent question; water . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

May be simple solution to mould problem

Question: I have a question about the water in my home. Anywhere there is standing water, whether it is hot or cold, mould grows. For example, the rim around the washing machine is growing black- and pinkish-coloured mould. . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Time to clear up some doubt about grout

QUESTION - I attempted to install ceramic tile inside the entrance of my home. It has been six months and the grout between some of the tiles is beginning to crack and crumble. Any idea why this is happening? Tanis, . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Sold

A look at recently sold homes in and around Winnipeg

River Heights Address: 181 Oak Street Asking Price: $329, 900 Sold Price: $329, 900 Taxes: $3, 574 Square Footage: 2, 375 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Listing Agent: Geoff & Regan Archambault, Century 21 Advanced Realty, 997.1761 Fort Richmond Address: #1-954 Summerside Ave Asking . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Big, yet down to earth

Geothermal unit heats, cools expansive, functional house for a pittance

Picture this, if you will: a 4, 500-square-foot home with a heating and cooling bill that comes in at under $1, 000. And that's for the year, folks. Thanks to a geothermal heating and cooling unit made in Manitoba by Southern Comfort . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

What women want in home ownership

What do women want? It's an age-old question. A recent TD Canada Trust poll decided to get some answers and finally find out what women want -- in a home, that is. Financial security is at the top of the list. . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Simply wonderful

Appearance deceiving; River Heights bungalow sparkles inside

There's an old saying (or is it a cliché?) that says not to judge a book by its cover. That's easier said than done when you drive down a street -- even if it's in an area such as character-laden River . . .

Posted: 2009-04-05

Painting oak panelling can be a bit tricky

If you are ready to tackle your own oak panelling (and yes, I know the very idea is a topic of serious spousal debate in some '80s-era homes), then professional painter Allan Wirzba is ready to help. Wirzba, the proprietor or . . .

Posted: 2009-03-29