When it comes to living spaces, many of us look for the biggest bang for our buck. The following are seven projects you might want to take on that won’t put a huge dent in your wallet, but will really make an impact in your home. Bed LiftTransforming your bed with a new headboard will […]

Clutter is the bane of a well-curated home. It’s all too easy to let unnecessary objects pile up in your home. These 10 items are so easy to say goodbye to, you won’t believe you ever let them stay in your home in the first place. Expired Toiletries Makeup, lotions, and other toiletries can begin […]

We love our living rooms. Whether it’s curling up on the couch in front of a crackling fire on a snowy night or spending some quality family time on Sunday morning, we know that living rooms are meant to be, well, lived in. That’s why it’s extremely important to stage your living room before selling. […]

While many Canadians prefer to save up for a brand-new home with all the efficiencies modern technology provides, there are very appealing reasons to consider buying an older home instead. Here are some things you can find in an existing home that a new construction just won’t provide: Lower CostThe most appealing factor is, of […]

The Land Transfer Tax is a required fee when buying in Canada. Here’s what you need to know: What is it?The tax is paid by buyers to the province upon the sale of the property. It must be paid upfront in cash. It can’t be rolled into regular mortgage payments. This tax varies from province […]

In many parts of the country, February can be the coldest month of the year. This likely means that the last thing on your mind is your garden. However, this is in fact the best time of the year to start planning and preparing your springtime strategy. February usually falls about 6-12 weeks from when […]

When it comes to travel, having a budget—and sticking to it—is very important. Here are a few travel hacks that can help you save money. Search Flights IncognitoSome airline websites track your browsing history and will show repeat visitors a different/higher price to cause FOMO (fear of missing out). Credit Card PointsOf all the ways […]

Most real estate agents will tell you that curb appeal is a big part of selling a home. This includes your lawn too, whether it’s in the front or the back of your home. Keep it looking good all year-round with these tips: Rake leaves and cut the grass. If you’re selling your home in the […]

When it comes to buying your first home, making an offer that meets all your criteria is a big deal. You are committing to a huge financial investment, and it needs to be taken seriously. While some things may differ from province to province or from city to suburbs, there are some factors that are […]

Tastes can change from province to province. But there’s one consensus Canada-wide. Updated kitchens will get you more money when you sell. Focus on these… A simple, neutral color scheme. Everyone likes a different shade on the walls. Stick to the safe colors like beige and grey. Keep the space open. Open floor plans are in. Buyers […]

When you’re ready to sell, many factors come into play. Here’s what to consider… Neighbourhood StatsYour home might not be worth what you think. The more desirable your neighborhood, the more it will sell for. Compare with homes in similar sizes and locations. Proximity to AmenitiesBeing in the middle of nowhere won’t get you much. […]

Looking to become an investor in Canada? Here’s what to look for in your search for property. Ask for advice.Find others who have already invested. Get their advice and network. Find out how much you need.Get pre-qualified for a mortgage. This will guide you in your search. Don’t focus on fixer-uppers.If you don’t have experience […]

While luxurious textiles and well-placed greenery can grab a buyer’s attention for a moment or two, most people searching for a home will tell you that the kitchen is one of the biggest make-or-break factors influencing whether or not they make an offer. It makes sense, of course. Kitchens usually end up being the heart […]

When living in a high-end home, it can sometimes feel large, vast and impersonal. There’s so much space to fill, and you may not know what to fill it with. Adding your own taste and personality to the home rather than relying purely on a designer can help it feel like it’s truly your space. […]

Mike McCarthy earns internationally recognized achievement for performance in luxury real estate Hamilton, ON — Mike McCarthy with Mike McCarthy Realty of RE/MAX Escarpment Realty, Inc. in Hamilton, ON earned The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing’s Million Dollar GUILD™ recognition for experience, knowledge, and expertise in million-dollar and above residential properties. McCarthy is a Certified […]

A home purchase is one of the largest investments that you will likely make in your lifetime. For this reason, homeowners are encouraged to protect their investment by tending to regular maintenance. Home Maintenance can not only ensure that your home’s interior and exterior are looking their best, but can be essential to ensuring the […]

Colour has the power to change the feeling of a room—and it can often be accomplished by repainting the space. Here are a few different color applications that can help elevate your home. Dark Trim and Light Walls Typically, rooms have colour on the walls and the trim is painted white. Reversing this colour application can […]

Life is full of the unexpected. Whether for safety reasons, emergencies or simply to be prepared for surprises, home economists suggest every homeowner should keep these items on hand. First Aid Kits – A fully stocked first aid kit is a must in the kitchen, where cuts, burns and other accidents often occur. But it’s a […]

Here are five features that will help create a polished bedroom for your children. Avoid Children’s Furniture Investing in high-quality furniture and a full- or queen-size bed will give your child foundational pieces they can grow into. Make It Timeless, But Accessorize With Their Interests With a timeless foundation in place, you can accent the […]

With many families spending more time at home in the past year or two, it’s a good time to look around your nest to determine what needs a bit of sprucing up. Just in time for a spring makeover, home design experts offer tips on the colour and design trends gaining traction as the New […]