Bathroom Upgrades That Will Freshen the Room and Save You Money
When you sit back to relax in the tub, or take time to preen in front of the bathroom vanity, do you often feel that the setting just isn’t giving you the comforting and spa-like experience you wish you could feel at home?
Sure, you take good care of your bathroom – you’ve scrubbed the faucets to make them as shiny as you can and everything works the way it has for many years. But maybe it’s time you gave your bathroom a refreshing change – one that not only gives you the luxurious feeling of comfort and elegance, but also that benefits your wallet and the environment.
You may be surprised to learn that bathroom showers, toilets and sinks account for about 75 percent of the water used in the home. If you haven’t replaced any of your faucets or toilets for many years, you may be not only struggling with keeping these older fixtures looking clean and fresh, you may also be paying a lot of extra money to keep them running.
Consider your toilet. Older toilets can use as much as 5 gallons of water per flush, while stylish modern toilets are designed to cut that amount by more than a third. And some models, like the new high-efficiency Aquia Wall-Hung Dual Flush HET, which uses TOTO’s Dual-Max flushing system, can use as little as 0.9 gallons per flush. These qualities earn this toilet the EPA WaterSense label for being water efficient. And being wall hung makes sense aesthetically – by hiding the tank in the wall and lifting the toilet from the floor (making cleaning a breeze), you can save a total of 9 inches of precious room space.
Now take a look at your vanity and see your faucet for what it is. If the faucet has been around for many years, excessive use may have corroded some of the metal finish, or even worn away the hot and cold labels. A new faucet would not only freshen the look of the vanity, but also give your bathroom a beautiful new look. Standard bathroom faucets use 2.2 gallons of water per minute, newer models are available that provide the robust drenching needed to clean your hands while only using a modest 1.5 gallons per minute. One is TOTO’s chic Aquia Single Handle High-Efficiency Faucet, available in heights to match your sink selection (undermount, self-rimming, or vessel).
Finally, check out the showerhead in your tub. You may already have upgraded your showerhead once since 1992, when it became a requirement that showerheads use no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. But newer models allow you to save even more water. The average person showers for eight minutes each day, so switching to a high-efficiency showerhead can save a family of four more than 8,700 gallons of water each year and reduce the demand on their water heater, saving them enough energy to power their television for a year. The Nexus High-Efficiency Showerhead from TOTO offers an invigorating showering experience with a responsible 1.75 gallons per minute water volume being consumed – which is a 30 percent savings over the legal limit.
Freshening up your outdated plumbing fixtures is a great step toward creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Not only will you be able to enjoy the comfortable and beautiful bath space, but you’ll also know that the changes are benefiting your pocketbook and the environment.
Property Showcase – Countryside Ravines
Today we are previewing a lovely property that is located only five minutes west of Edmonton and is offered by Trevor Wilhauk and Tyson Moroz.
Want a home that has everything you need now and the future? This well planned home is definitely for you!
With many extras and a modern flare unmatched by most. Almost 4000 finished sq. ft. with soaring 20 ft. vaulted ceiling great room and 9 ft ceilings in the lower level. Extensive use of glass tile in bathrooms and kitchen backsplash. European cabinets and 1 1/2″ granite counter tops are a real eye catcher. Massive master retreat has 6 pce ensuite & spacious walk in closet. High-end appliances, top-end fixtures, built-in sound system, zoned in-floor heat, wet bar, central A/C even a wash-up shower in the triple heated garage.
See this home for yourself to appreciate all it has to offer!
Located in prestigious Countryside Ravines on a 1/2 acre lot with city services. To set up an appointment to view this luxurious property or find out more information please call Trevor or Tyson at 780-968-1068.
12 Reason to Use a REALTOR® When Buying or Selling
Smart home sellers realize they need the expertise of a REALTOR® in pricing their home, attracting buyers, arranging open houses, marketing the property and coordinating with inspectors, appraisers, mortgage brokers, escrow officers and other professionals. The process of selling your home can be complicated, but your REALTOR® is there to make your life easier. They know the market, understand local conditions and are trained on the legal and disclosure requirements that come with selling a house.
1. Your REALTOR® can help you determine your buying power — that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity. If you give a REALTOR® some basic information about your available savings, income and current debt, he or she can refer you to lenders best qualified to help you. Most lenders — banks and mortgage companies — offer limited choices.
2. Your REALTOR® has many resources to assist you in your home search. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your agent to find all available properties.
3. Your REALTOR® can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. Agents who are REALTORS® have access to a variety of informational resources. REALTORS® can provide local community information on utilities, zoning. schools, etc. There are two things you’ll want to know. First, will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?
4. Your REALTOR® can help you negotiate. There are myriad negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession and often the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. The purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required.
5. Your REALTOR® provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your REALTOR® can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do most of these investigations and provide you with written reports. You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements (access rights) for utilities. Your REALTOR®, title company or attorney can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date.
6. Your REALTOR® can help you in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders.
7. Your REALTOR® can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.
8. When selling your home, your REALTOR® can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the price, financing, terms and condition of competing properties. These are key factors in getting your property sold at the best price, quickly and with minimum hassle.
9. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. Often, your REALTOR® can recommend repairs or cosmetic work that will significantly enhance the salability of your property. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. In many markets across the country, over 50% of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. Your REALTOR® acts as the marketing coordinator, disbursing information about your property to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service or other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, etc. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics requires REALTORS® to utilize these cooperative relationships when they benefit their clients.
10. Your REALTOR® will know when, where and how to advertise your property. When a property is marketed with the help of your REALTOR®, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR® will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.
11. Your REALTOR® can help you objectively evaluate every buyer’s proposal without compromising your marketing position. This initial agreement is only the beginning of a process of appraisals, inspections and financing — a lot of possible pitfalls. Your REALTOR® can help you write a legally binding, win-win agreement that will be more likely to make it through the process.
12. Your REALTOR® can help close the sale of your home. Between the initial sales agreement and closing (or settlement), questions may arise. For example, unexpected repairs are required to obtain financing or a cloud in the title is discovered. The required paperwork alone is overwhelming for most sellers. Your REALTOR® is the best person to objectively help you resolve these issues and move the transaction to closing (or settlement).
REALTORS® are required to have mandatory training and are considered the best of the real estate profession
The REALTOR® Commitment – Professionals You Can Trust
A REALTOR® is licensed by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and adheres to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice. They are professionals, trained and tested. A REALTOR® is your guarantee of professional conduct and the best in service.
REALTORS® are there to make the transfer of property as smooth as possible and are in daily contact with buyers potentially interested in your home. Licensed REALTORS® also carry errors and omissions insurance.
MARKET EVALUATIONS
Pricing your home competitively is key to a quick sale. REALTORS® are trained and experienced in providing accurate market evaluations, usually at no cost to the homeowner. Their market analysis and advice will allow the home to be priced according to current housing market conditions.
EXPERTISE
Home buyers choose a REALTOR® to help them pick the right property to suit their needs. They will have community information regarding utilities, zoning, and schools. A REALTOR® will pre-screen potential properties, advise on price, and help navigate the complicated process of preparing an Offer To Purchase. Your REALTOR® can also help you determine your buying power and refer you to qualified lenders.
Home sellers list with a REALTOR® because of their experience in negotiating the best possible price for their properties. But price isn’t necessarily the deciding factor – a REALTOR® will be able to explain the financing, terms, and other conditions you may come across when reviewing potential offers. REALTORS® know how to show your home to its best potential and can provide assistance and advice on preparing the property to enhance its saleability. Most REALTORS® take advantage of continuing education to enhance their skills and stay up-to-date on the latest marketing techniques to keep them competitive as the market changes. REALTORS® are also educated on the complex laws and regulations that impact the real estate industry.
KNOWLEDGE OF MARKET CONDITIONS
A REALTOR® will have in-depth information about the current market conditions in local areas. Even in the same city, individual neighbourhoods have different housing markets. A REALTOR® will be able to provide information on the number of days homes have been on the market, current homes that are for sale, which homes have recently sold, and the average sale prices for homes in your area.
EXPOSURE
REALTOR® provide a solid marketing plan to get your property sold. Choosing a REALTOR® who creates a full-service proposal including web and print advertising is ideal.
A REALTOR® who is willing to invest marketing dollars on your behalf will give your property the most exposure possible. Ask your potential REALTOR® where they intend to advertise your home. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a great start, but additional advertising is always a good idea. Homes & Land Magazine of Edmonton provides a fully integrated marketing service plan to REALTORS®.
Choosing a REALTOR® who advertises in Homes & Land Magazine of Edmonton not only gives your property exposure in print throughout the City and surrounding areas, but the magazine is also available to view online at HomesandLandofEdmonton.com. Many copies of the magazine are directmailed to targeted homebuyers as well. Listings advertised in Homes & Land of Edmonton are also available to view on a number of affiliated websites. Homes & Land of Edmonton puts your home in front of thousands of potential buyers everyday!
CONTACTS
REALTORS® are experts in connecting buyers with the home of their dreams. They develop a relationship with their clients that allows them to advise on which potential properties may suit their needs. Their contacts with other REALTORS® will ensure that no property is overlooked in the search for a new home.
TIME COMMITMENT
Marketing and showing properties takes up a considerable amount of time. A REALTOR® is available full-time to show your property to potential buyers. They invest their time so you don’t have to.
REALTORS® have skills, knowledge, experience and a network of resources, and will work with you to secure the biggest financial investment you’re ever likely to make. Whether buying or selling, dealing with a REALTOR® will make your real estate experience the best it can be!
Property Showcase – Bridgewater Properties, west of Stony Plain offered by Janet Greer of Re/MAX Spruce Grove
This 4 bedroom and den, 1690 sq ft walkout bi-level home is located on 1.01 acres Lakefront at Bridgewater Properties, just 10 minutes West of Stony Plain.
The kitchen has lots of oak cabinets, countertop stove & built-in oven. The dining room is nice & bright with garden door to the huge deck. The living room has gorgeous hardwood flooring, built-in oak cabinets & an airtight woodstove insert in the brick facing fireplace.
The master bedroom has a cedar feature wall, 3 piece ensuite & a huge walk-in closet. The other 2 bedrooms are a good size with one that could also be used as a den as it has garden doors out to the deck.
The ceramic tile on the main floor has infloor heating-very comfortable in the winter. The walkout basement is fully finished with family room, wet bar, 4th bedroom with walk-in closet & 3 piece bath w/double shower.
This home also has vaulted ceilings thru-out & a newer septic treatment plant. Along with the double garage there is lots of room for RV parking. Enjoy this great family home with gorgeous view!
Please call Janet Greer at 780-962-8580 for your private showing.
Take a moment to view the current issue of our magazine!
Kerri Anderson
Homes & Land of Edmonton was launched nearly nine years ago; one of the first in Canada. I was very excited to begin working with Homes & Land of Edmonton as a Sales & Marketing Consultant, and I believe so strongly in our product, that I have since purchased the franchise. I have a strong background in sales, marketing, and publishing, with a reputation for providing superior customer service. I am proud to offer Edmonton and area Real Estate Professionals an excellent forum for promoting their listings.
