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Unlocking Potential: Adding a Secondary Suite to Your Edmonton Home

If you're considering renovating your Edmonton home, adding a secondary suite can be a smart move. It not only enhances your living space but also opens up opportunities for rental income. Before you dive into the renovation adventure, let's break down some key aspects.

Costs

Renovation costs can vary, but it's essential to budget for both the construction and potential hidden expenses. On average, expect to invest $50,000+, but this can go up depending on the extent of the changes needed.

Permits

Edmonton has specific regulations for secondary suites. Before you start knocking down walls, check with the city to ensure you're compliant. Permits are required, covering safety and zoning regulations. It's a crucial step to avoid issues down the road. You can visit the official City of Edmonton - Secondary Suites page, with information on permits, guidelines and regulations for suites in Edmonton.

Things to be Aware of

Consider the existing layout of your home and how the addition will impact it. Plumbing and electrical systems might need adjustments. Also, think about the logistics of creating a separate entrance for the suite.

Potential Pitfalls

Renovations can uncover surprises. Be prepared for unexpected challenges, like outdated wiring or plumbing issues. Having a contingency fund will help you navigate these bumps in the road without derailing your project.

Benefits

Adding a secondary suite comes with perks. Beyond extra income from renting it out, it can increase your property value. The additional living space can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

Other Considerations

Think about the type of tenant you want to attract and design the suite accordingly. Also, keep in mind that managing a rental property comes with responsibilities, so be ready to take on the role of a landlord.

In a nutshell, renovating to add a secondary suite in Edmonton can be a game-changer. Just be sure to do your homework, secure the necessary permits, and have a realistic budget in place. It's an investment that can pay off both now and in the future.

Here are a couple more resources that may help:

Alberta - Secondary suites - Building codes

RenovationFind - What is Needed to Build a Legal Secondary Suite in Edmonton

Happy renovating!
Jason

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Understanding Mortgage Choices for New Homebuyers in the Edmonton Real Estate Market
By Jason Hafso, Accredited Buyer's Representative, MaxWell Challenge Realty

Hey there, future homeowners! Buying a home in Edmonton or surrounding areas? One of the first things you'll need to understand is mortgages. Let's break down the options available so you can make an informed decision.

Fixed-Rate vs. Variable-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-Rate

With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate stays the same for the entire loan term. This option provides stability and is often favored by first-time homebuyers.

Variable-Rate

In a variable-rate mortgage, the interest rate may change based on market conditions. If you're comfortable with some risk, this could save you money in the long run.

Open vs. Closed Mortgages

Open Mortgage

An open mortgage offers flexibility, allowing you to pay off your loan at any time without penalties.

Closed Mortgage

A closed mortgage has restrictions on how much you can pay off yearly. However, they usually come with lower interest rates.

Down Payment

The down payment is your initial investment and typically ranges from 5% to 20%. In Edmonton, many first-time buyers opt for the minimum down payment to get into the market sooner.

Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved gives you a ballpark figure of the mortgage you can afford. It's a valuable tool when house hunting in competitive markets like Edmonton.

First-Time Home Buyer Grants and Incentives

CMHC’s First-Time Home Buyer Incentive

The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive helps new buyers by giving them extra money for their down payment. It aims to make buying a home easier and also encourages builders to make more homes. You can get 5% of the home's value for an older home or 5-10% for a new one. This is an interest-free loan, but you need to pay it back when you sell the house or within 25 years. The payback amount will depend on how much your home is worth at that time.

First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (HBTC)

The First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit lets new buyers in Canada get some money back on their taxes. They can claim up to $10,000, which translates to a $1,500 tax credit. Even though it's not a huge amount, it's pretty easy to apply for and get.

Home Buyers' Plan (HBP)

Another valuable program is the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP), allowing you to withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSPs tax-free to buy or build a qualifying home. If you’re buying with a partner who's also a first-time buyer, they can withdraw the same amount, potentially doubling your down payment.

The Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

The FHSA is a special savings account for your first home. You can put in up to $8,000 each year and get tax benefits on that money. The most you can save in this account over time is $40,000. If you don't use up the full $8,000 in a year, you can add it to next year's limit.

Mortgage Loan Insurance

If your down payment is less than 20%, you'll be required to get mortgage loan insurance. While this adds to your cost, it's also what enables you to buy a home with a smaller down payment.

In the dynamic Edmonton real estate market, understanding your mortgage options is crucial. Whether you're eyeing a downtown condo or a family home in a surrounding community, make sure you're financially prepared.

Looking for more advice on buying a home in Edmonton and surrounding areas? Contact Jason Hafso, your local Accredited Buyer's Representative at MaxWell Challenge Realty.

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Building a Smart Home in Edmonton: 4 Essential Questions to Ask Your Contractor

As technology continues to advance, smart home devices are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners in Edmonton, Alberta. These innovative technologies not only enhance convenience but also provide improved security and energy efficiency. If you're planning a home renovation or new construction project, it's crucial to choose a contractor who is well-versed in smart home technology. Asking the right questions will ensure that your contractor has the expertise and experience to integrate these systems seamlessly into your home. In this article, we'll discuss four essential questions to ask your contractor about smart home technology in Edmonton.

1. What experience do you have with smart home installations?

The first and most crucial question to ask your contractor is about their experience with smart home installations. Inquire about their knowledge of smart home devices, brands, and systems. Look for a contractor who has successfully completed similar projects in the past, preferably in Edmonton or the surrounding areas. A contractor with hands-on experience will be familiar with the intricacies of smart home technology and can guide you through the selection and installation process smoothly.

2. Can you recommend the best smart home devices for my needs?

With countless smart home devices available in the market, choosing the right ones for your home can be overwhelming. A knowledgeable contractor will understand your requirements and suggest the best smart home devices that align with your lifestyle and budget. They should have expertise in various aspects of smart home technology, including security systems, lighting controls, thermostats, voice assistants, and more. Their recommendations should be tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you make informed decisions about the devices that will enhance your daily life.

3. How will the smart home devices integrate my existing or planned infrastructure?

Integration is a critical aspect of any smart home installation. You'll want to ensure that the devices seamlessly integrate with your existing or planned infrastructure. Ask your contractor how they plan to incorporate the devices into your home's electrical and network systems. A competent contractor will have a clear understanding of the technical requirements and potential challenges involved in integrating smart home devices. They should be able to explain the process and provide a timeline for the installation, keeping you informed every step of the way.

4. Will you provide ongoing support and maintenance for smart home technology?

Smart home technology requires periodic maintenance and software updates to ensure optimal performance. It's essential to inquire whether your contractor provides ongoing support and maintenance services. Ask about their warranty policies and whether they offer assistance in case of device malfunctions or upgrades. A reliable contractor will stand behind their work and be available to address any issues that may arise after the installation.

When incorporating smart home technology into your Edmonton home, choosing the right contractor is crucial. By asking these four essential questions, you can ensure that your contractor has the expertise and experience to seamlessly integrate smart home devices. Remember to inquire about their experience, ask for device recommendations, understand the integration process, and clarify their support and maintenance policies. By partnering with a reputable contractor knowledgeable in smart home technology, you can transform your home into a modern, efficient, and secure living space.

Investing in smart home technology is an exciting venture, and finding the right contractor will make all the difference. Embrace the power of automation and enhance your Edmonton home with the convenience and efficiency of smart home devices.

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Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety In Your Home

As Canadians, we know that fire and carbon monoxide are two of the most significant risks to our safety at home. These two hazards can cause severe damage to our property and even threaten the lives of our loved ones. As such, finding peace of mind about fire and carbon monoxide is crucial for any homeowner. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best ways to keep your home safe and give you the peace of mind you need.

Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential in any home. They are designed to alert you in case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak, giving you and your family enough time to evacuate the building safely. In Canada, it is mandatory to have a smoke detector on every level of your home and outside of sleeping areas, and a carbon monoxide detector outside of each bedroom.

Make sure to test your detectors monthly, and replace the batteries twice a year. Also, replace the detectors themselves every ten years to ensure optimal performance. Installing these detectors is a crucial step in protecting your home and loved ones from the dangers of fire and carbon monoxide.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

It's vital to have a fire escape plan in place, so everyone in your home knows what to do in case of a fire. Make sure to identify all the exits in your home, and designate a meeting spot outside. Practice your fire escape plan with your family, so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. It is also essential to have a plan in place for those with mobility issues or disabilities to ensure they can safely evacuate the home.

Invest in Fire Extinguishers

Having a fire extinguisher in your home can help you put out small fires and prevent them from spreading. Make sure to have at least one fire extinguisher on every level of your home and in high-risk areas like the kitchen, laundry room, and garage. In Canada, look for fire extinguishers with a rating of 5A:40B:C. Remember to read the instructions and familiarize yourself with how to use it.

Regularly Maintain Your Heating System

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of incomplete combustion, which means it can be produced by fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters. To keep your home safe, make sure to maintain these appliances regularly. Have them inspected and cleaned by a professional annually to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Fire and carbon monoxide are real dangers that can threaten your home and loved ones. However, by taking the necessary precautions, you can significantly reduce these risks and find peace of mind. By installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, having a fire escape plan, investing in fire extinguishers, and regularly maintaining your heating system, you can keep your home and family safe from these hazards. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

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What does fresh air have to do with staying healthy?

(NC) Many of us have heard that fresh air is good for us, but what does that mean and why is it important?

Basically, fresh air is when the particles of air around you are regularly replaced; it’s the movement of air. Outside, this happens naturally when air is moved by a breeze. Inside, you need good ventilation to improve air quality, by letting fresh air in and preventing stale air from being trapped inside with you.

Respiratory viruses may be transmitted from person to person through the air by small respiratory particles called aerosols. For example, when someone who has COVID-19 breathes, talks, sings, shouts, sneezes or coughs, they can release respiratory particles with the virus into the air and spread it to others. The smaller and more crowded the room, and the longer that others stay in the space, the higher the risk that COVID-19 may spread. Good ventilation helps to reduce the levels of potentially infectious particles in the air, by letting fresh air in, which is especially important when you're with people from outside your immediate household.

Some easy tips to help you improve the ventilation in your home:

  • Open windows and doors whenever possible. Even if it’s cold outside, a few minutes of fresh outdoor air can still help.
  • Run a kitchen or bathroom exhaust fan continuously at low speed and open a window - even if it’s in a different room - to provide replacement air.
  • Consider using an air purifier with a high-efficiency particle filter (known as a HEPA filter), that’s sized for the room.
  • Regularly clean or replace filters in your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

These steps are especially helpful before, during and after having guests in your home. Combine ventilation with other important public health measures, such as keeping up with vaccinations, hand washing, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and staying home when sick to help keep you and others protected against respiratory viruses, like COVID-19 and the flu.

Find more information at canada.ca/coronavirus.

 
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How automation can keep your home secure

(NC) Whether you’re planning a sunny getaway to escape the cold or are back in the office on a regular basis for the first time in years, it’s reasonable to be worried about your home when it’s empty. The good news is, there are easy ways to keep a watchful eye.

Keep it bright 
While the days are getting longer, illuminating your walkway and entryways after dark can deter people from approaching your property. Set your lights up on timers or install motion-sensitive models.

Get smart with security 
While you shouldn’t live in fear, theft and break-and-entering do occur. For an easy and effective way to monitor your home, consider an all-in-one smart security system that includes 24/7 monitoring and real-time alerts. That way, you’re immediately notified of activity around your home such as someone walking up your driveway or if a door or window has been opened.

Automate from anywhere 
Whether you’re out shopping at the mall or visiting relatives out of town, take advantage of the ability to secure and control your home from anywhere with an all-in-one smart security system such as Telus SmartHome Security. Schedule or manually turn your lights on and off to give the illusion someone is home, or lock and unlock your doors when your children get home from school. True automation can provide added peace of mind and security from near or far.

 
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Foolproof tips to punch up your home’s palette

(NC) Prepare your paintbrushes: colour is back. Neutral aesthetics have dominated for seasons on end, but design tastemakers have shifted their focus to adventurous interiors.

Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore colour and design expert, shares how to confidently move on from neutral tones and kickstart a colour revival.

Balance a room
“Colour has visual weight, so be mindful of the size of your space,” Grech advises. Larger rooms can handle darker tones and strong saturation. Smaller spaces can benefit from airier, pale tones; but with ample lighting, a bold hue can be a joyful transformation.

Make a statement
There is something alluring about a room that is bursting with colour. Be bold in your expression and have fun. Instead of using an oversized piece of art for your wall, create an area of interest by painting a wall section behind a favourite piece of furniture. Paint unexpected corners of your home, like a bookcase, chimney or ceiling, to add a splash of colour and inject your personality.

Amplify the colour you love
Your home is your haven. Consider the emotional and subconscious impact certain colours have on you and let them guide your choice. Grech suggests, “Consider a shade like Raspberry Blush 2008-30 for your living room or kitchen to energize or New Age 1444 for a calming bedroom.” Colour has the ability to evoke emotions and affect mood, so consider how you use the room and want to feel in it before selecting a hue.

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Downsizing tips for happiness in a smaller space

(NC) Downsizing for retirement can relieve stress and help you focus on what is truly important. Whether you feel ready for the change or you’re a little nervous to plant roots somewhere new, here are some tips for a smooth and easy transition.

Start decluttering now
Even if you don’t plan to move for some time, it’s worth cutting down on your clutter. Begin thinking about items you really want to keep forever, such as your mother’s china. If those antique dishes mean a lot to you, keep them for your next place and plan to actually use them. If they are just taking up space, recognize that and don’t feel bad about finding them a new home. Beginning to tackle this step now will save you last minute stress and guilt when it comes time to move.

Consider your lifestyle
Are you looking to leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life? Or, are you excited by the option of walking to nearby shops and activities in an area where you don’t have to rely on a car? Will your new pad be the home base for a rotation of visiting family or are you planning to live the more nomadic life of the frequent traveller? Consider your physical, social, and personal needs as you think about how and where to live in retirement.

Use all tools available 
There are many options and considerations when creating a retirement plan, so use all the resources available to help you make an informed decision for your golden years. For example, you can use free census data to learn about a potential new community before moving there. You can find useful details on population, age and types of dwellings in different places. Specifically, you’ll be able to see if there is a higher concentration of seniors or lots of young children, along with the type of housing in your target area. It’s a great way to learn more about a place before you move there.

Find more information at statcan.gc.ca/census.

 
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3 easy backyard DIY upgrades

(NC) Embarking on a DIY project can offer lots of fun and learning for a couple, family or just for yourself. Consider taking up a project for your backyard that you can enjoy with the people close to you all year long.

Here are three unique ideas for backyard DIY projects that anyone, from beginners to seasoned builders, can do.

Re-home your garden
Make gardening even more personal and rewarding this summer by building your own planter box. Making a planter box for your favourite veggies or flowers is great for a beginner or seasoned DIY-er. With several wood and composite material options and various design configurations, you have the freedom to match your planter to your outdoor space.

Elevate your patio with a pergola 
There are few things that add to the charm of a backyard like a pergola. Whether you want to provide shade around your bistro set or give your plants room to grow to the sky, there is no shortage of ways to build a pergola or trellis in your outdoor space. Pergolas aren’t just meant for large backyards, either. Your local Home Hardware Building Centre can help you pick out the right materials and tools to build a pergola that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Build your own storage space 
A storage shed might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning out your backyard. But, whether it’s shielding your bikes, tools or furniture from the elements, or acting as a place to keep extra chairs or cushion covers, a shed can be a game-changer and a fun DIY project. With a wide range of sizes and designs available, you can build a shed that fits all of your storage needs.

You can find more project ideas at homehardware.ca

 
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3 benefits of a healthy lawn

(NC) Whether it’s in your backyard or a nearby park, lawns provide more than just aesthetic benefits, they contribute to happier and healthier communities. Here’s how:

  1. Providing oxygen that we breathe
    Green space are a valuable part of creating clean air anywhere. For example 15 square metres of grass produces enough oxygen for a family of four every day. That can help make a difference to how we feel and breathe.
  2. Reducing the warming effect of hard surfaces 
    When the summer heat hits, grass helps keep you cool. Street or sidewalk temperatures may reach 38 degrees Celsius or higher, but grass remains at 24 degrees. Your feet and your home can thank your lawn for lower temperatures.

  3.  Acting as water filtration systems 
    A healthy lawn will slow runoff and allow time for the water to seep back into the groundwater system, rather than overworking municipal storm sewer systems and creating a flood. A 900 square metre lawn can absorb more than 22,000 litres of water.

    To provide these benefits, lawns require care. Pesticides are one tool that help protect lawns by keeping weeds and other pests under control. Health Canada regulates every pesticide sold in the country to ensure they do not pose risks to humans, pets or the environment, when used as directed. 

Find more information at croplife.ca

 
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