Living in a way that’s better for the environment isn't just about reducing waste—it’s also about making smarter choices that can save money and improve your quality of life. A sustainable home lowers your carbon footprint, reduces energy and water usage, and creates a healthier space for your family. With rising energy costs and climate change concerns, small changes in your daily habits and home setup can make a massive impact. Whether you own a home or rent an apartment, there are practical steps you can take to build a more sustainable lifestyle.

Cut Down on Energy Use

Electricity consumption is one of the biggest contributors to environmental damage. Wasted energy doesn’t just hurt your wallet—it increases the demand for fossil fuels and…

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Winter can be tough on homes, with cold temperatures, snow, and ice causing potential damage. However, with the right care and preparation, you can keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient. This guide covers key steps to help you prepare for the colder months, from sealing windows to protecting your pipes.

Getting Your Home’s Exterior Ready

Checking and Fixing the Roof

Your roof shields your home from the elements, so it’s important to check for loose, damaged, or missing shingles before winter starts. Snow and ice can make small issues worse, leading to leaks and expensive repairs. If you’re unsure, hiring a professional for an inspection can help catch problems early and prevent bigger issues.

Cleaning Out the Gutters

Gutters…

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We all want our homes to be a safe haven, not just for us but also for our furry friends. Whether you have a cat, dog, or even a rabbit, ensuring your home is pet-friendly is essential. But where do you start? Creating a pet-friendly home isn't just about making space for your furry companions; it's about ensuring their safety, comfort, and happiness while maintaining the style and function of your living space. A well-prepared home means fewer accidents, reduced stress for both you and your pet, and an overall more harmonious household.

Why a Pet-Friendly Home Matters

Our pets are family, and just like baby-proofing a home for kids, pet-proofing ensures safety and comfort. From preventing accidents to choosing pet-resistant materials, making a home…

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Have you ever wondered why so many wealthy individuals invest in real estate? It’s not just about owning property; it’s about creating a sustainable income stream, growing wealth, and taking advantage of numerous financial benefits. Real estate investment is one of the most reliable and time-tested ways to build wealth over the long term. Unlike stocks and other volatile investment options, real estate offers stability, appreciation, and multiple streams of income. Whether you are looking to generate passive income, diversify your investment portfolio, or secure financial independence, real estate investing provides various strategies to achieve your goals.

The Power of Real Estate Investing

Appreciation Over Time

Unlike many other investments,…

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Fraser Valley’s Decade-High Inventory Could Open Doors for Buyers

SURREY, BC – Growing inventory and stable prices could lead to opportunities for buyers in the Fraser Valley market this winter despite uncertain economic conditions.

Newly listed homes jumped 167 per cent from December to January, with 3,432 listed on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®). At 7,251 active listings, inventory is at a 10-year seasonal high, 54 per cent above the 10-year average.

While sales remained slow in January, with 818 properties sold (down 18% from December), the combination of stable prices and abundant selection presents potential opportunities for buyers to get back into the market.

Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio

The…

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Home Sellers Off to an Active Start in 2025

VANCOUVER, BC – February 4, 2025 – Homes newly listed on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver rose 46 per cent year-over-year in January, as sellers appear eager to enter the market to start the year.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,552 in January 2025, an 8.8 per cent increase from the 1,427 sales recorded in January 2024. This was 11.3 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (1,749).

“In the three months preceding January, we’ve watched buyer demand gain momentum, but it appears that momentum is now shifting toward sellers to start the new year,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “Even with this increase in new…

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Buying a home is a huge financial step, and the price tag on a listing doesn’t tell the whole story. There are many extra costs that come with homeownership that can add up fast. If you don’t plan for them, you might find yourself stretched thin. Have you thought about closing costs, property taxes, or homeowners association (HOA) fees? These are just a few expenses that many buyers don't consider. Knowing about these costs in advance will help you avoid surprises and keep your finances in check. Let's break it all down.

Main Expenses to Expect

1. Down Payment

The down payment is the biggest upfront cost when buying a home. The amount you need depends on your mortgage type, but it’s usually between 3% and 20% of the home’s price. A higher down…

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Property maintenance can be a money pit if not handled strategically. From unexpected repairs to rising utility bills, costs can add up quickly. But what if you could cut down your expenses without compromising the quality of your property? Proper maintenance not only helps retain the value of your property but also ensures a comfortable and safe living environment. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or real estate investor, keeping your maintenance costs under control can significantly impact your bottom line. In this guide, we’ll share expert strategies to help you reduce your property maintenance costs while keeping everything in top shape.

1. Regular Inspections and Preventive Maintenance

Think of your property like a car—regular tune-ups…

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Picking an accessible home isn’t just about making life easier—it’s about creating a space that promotes safety, independence, and peace of mind. Whether you're looking for yourself or a family member, certain features are essential to ensure the home fits specific needs. From smart layouts to modern technology, an accessible home should support mobility, daily tasks, and overall comfort.

Understanding Your Accessibility Needs

Evaluating Mobility Requirements

Before looking at properties, take time to assess what’s needed for easy movement. Do you use a wheelchair, walker, or other mobility aids? Will you need extra-wide doors or ramps? Not all accessibility features fit every individual, so it's important to focus on what works best for you now…

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The Bank of Canada (BoC) reduced the overnight rate by 25 basis points this morning, bringing the policy rate down to 3.0%. The market had anticipated a nearly 98% chance of this 25 basis point reduction, and consensus aligned with this expectation.

The Federal Reserve is also set to announce its rate decision this afternoon, where it is widely expected to maintain the current policy rate. As a result, the gap between the US Federal Funds rate and the BoC’s overnight rate has widened to 150 basis points. This discrepancy is largely attributed to stronger growth and inflation in the US compared to Canada.

Consequently, Canada’s relatively low interest rates have negatively impacted the Canadian dollar, which has fallen to 69.2 cents against the US…

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