Santa Claus Parade Sunday in Mississauga

Hi everyone,

Today is the big day! Streetsville will once again host the Annual Mississauga Santa Claus Parade on Sunday, November 28, 2010. The parade will start at approximately 12:50pm on Queen Street South at Britannia Road and travel south through the Village to disperse at various locations after the Church Street junction.  Have heard that it is best to get there by noon to get a good spot and parking!  Try to carpool or take public transit so as to cut down on the amount of cars. Don't be late or you will get on Santa's Naughty List. See you all there!

Establishing your Asking Price

Deciding what price tag to put on your home is never easy. Price is often the determining factor for potential buyers. Location, layout and amenities are important but in the end most of us have to look at the bottom line. Many sellers like to think they can start with the price they originally paid, add a healthy mark-up and wait for the offers to roll in. A lot of those sellers will have to adjust their price once their home is on the market.

Try to put aside your subjectivity
The cherished memories you may hold of your home are basically unimportant to buyers. Usually they're more interested in creating their own memories. An unsentimental look at the market value of your home can save time and disappointment.

The amount you actually spent for home upgrades is worth mentioning in the listing information, but their reflection in the selling price can be somewhat distorted. The new carpet, paint, or deck you added may increase the value (and shorten the time your home is for sale) but don't expect to be reimbursed dollar for dollar for those renovations. As design trends change you may also find that certain renovations are either more or less desirable. (Do you remember shag?)

Arrange a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)It is standard practice for a real estate agent to visit and evaluate a home. Ask for a comparative market analysis showing the selling prices of similar homes in the neighbourhood, those currently on the market and those that didn't sell. A CMA presented by an experienced agent can provide a realistic price estimate of your home. Remember however that CMAs are not set in stone. Some agents under-value your home in hopes of creating demand. Others will flatter you with over-inflated estimates in order to get your listing but later suggest a price reduction. Don't fall for these tactics - work with an agent who is upfront and honest in their evaluation and knows your area.

Conduct your own market research
When homes in your area have open houses take a look. Use this opportunity to compare your home to "the competition" in terms of price, location, square footage, and amenities. Once you look at several listings you should be able to make an educated guess as to the market value of different aspects of your home. If you are months away from actually listing your home, visiting open houses may also help you discover which renovations could be profitable and appeal to today's consumers.

Calculate the price per square footThere are many factors to take into consideration when determining market value. Price per square foot is a good starting point. You can get a fair idea of the average price per square foot of homes in your neighbourhood by reviewing properties sold or for sale recently. Remember that there is more than one way to count square footage so it's a good idea to ask your agent what method is commonly used.

Consider market conditions
Real estate is one of the most secure investments you can make but prices can rise and fall independent of the quality of the individual properties. If you attempt to sell your home when the market dips you'll find you may have to lower the price below your expectations. Interest rates, the state of the economy and the local job market should be considered before you put your home on the market. The time between price peaks varies due to local and national market influences. These characteristics will assist you in determining if there is any market timing opportunities.

Finally, consider your own needs when setting your price. Are you in a hurry to sell? If so you may want to knock one or two percent off the market value. Is there a minimum amount you can afford to accept? If you have the luxury of time you have more leverage. Keep in mind however, that a house that is on the market too long or has a large price reduction at some point, may be viewed as "damaged" or "stale goods."

Your best strategy may be to establish a fair asking price from the start. Most buyers will make an offer lower than the listed price in a bid to see how low you'll go. However, those who have researched the market will be willing to meet you near your terms.

Mortgage Brokers Demystified

Unclear as to what a mortgage broker can do for you? This article discusses some of the many benefits and services provided by mortgage brokers in Canada. After reading this article, we hope you will understand why you will benefit by using a mortgage broker for mortgage financing. 

What is a mortgage broker?
Simply stated, a mortgage broker is an agent for lenders in much the same way an insurance broker is an agent for insurance companies. Mortgage brokers act as agents for banks, trust companies, credit unions, mortgage corporations, mortgage investment corporations, finance companies and individual private investors. Some mortgage brokers are exclusively lenders of their own money and provide a direct source of mortgage funds (a topic to be discussed in a later issue). Mortgage brokers are trained professionals that have to meet a satisfactory educational requirement before they may become registered. As such, this requirement ensures you are being provided with a duty of care, a working knowledge of mortgage products and a standard of service to meet individual needs.

So, how would I benefit by using a mortgage broker?
Using the services of a mortgage broker for the first time usually results in the following testimonials:

• I originally thought you only used mortgage brokers if you couldn't qualify at the bank….I was wrong.
• I didn't feel intimidated or left in the dark for days on end wondering if I would qualify;
• My mortgage was approved the very same day I applied;
• I didn't realize there were so many terms and conditions that vary among the different institutions. My mortgage broker took the time to explain them to me;
• I didn't realize many mortgage products and discounts were available exclusively through mortgage brokers;
• I always thought you had to pay fees but because my mortgage was approved based on my credit history and income, there were no lender or brokerage fees charged;
• I didn't have to leave my home or take time off work to apply;
• The broker clearly explained the interest rates, prepayment privileges and other important terms and conditions which helped clarify some of my many questions and helped save me a great deal of money as a result;
• Within five minutes, the broker explained how much of a mortgage I qualified for;
• Within five minutes the broker told me that I had enough income to qualify for my $160,000 condominium purchase;
• The application process was pleasant and over the telephone;
• I didn't have to take the time to shop financial institutions for the best mortgage myself, the broker did everything and got me what I wanted;
• The broker was always accessible on evenings or weekends when I needed an important question answered before making an offer on a property;

What will the mortgage broker need to know? As you probably already know, lender terms and conditions are not created equal. So, whether you are purchasing a property or refinancing an existing mortgage, there are many factors to take into consideration. A quick analysis of your personal situation by a qualified mortgage broker, lets him/her know where to shop the market. Some things he/she will need to know are:

• Net worth (i.e. your assets less your liabilities);
• Income (i.e. income from employment or self-employment);
• Credit history (i.e. your payment history with your other creditors, loans credit cards etc.);
• Property type (i.e. Residential, Land only, recreational, remote location etc.);
• Down payment amount;

Once your application is complete, the mortgage broker knows where you will qualify. With the click of a few buttons, he/she can tap into the vast network of computers which connect lenders and brokers electronically. As mentioned above, the broker can obtain rate discounts for you that you cannot obtain yourself.

Where will your next mortgage financing experience be?
Volumes of detailed important information are available to consumers right now but do you have the desire, time or where-with-all to effectively examine what's out there? It can be a daunting, frustrating task. To limit your frustration, consider using the expertise of a qualified and knowledgeable mortgage broker to help you understand the mortgage process and meet your financial needs.

Indoor Plants for the Lazy Gardener

Outside the trees are bare. A cold wind blows relentlessly from grey skies. Right about now something green and alive sounds awfully appealing. An indoor plant might be just what you need. But wait. Are you lacking that proverbial green thumb? Fear not. There are numerous plants that can survive the most extreme lack of attention. You just need to find the right plant. The following ranks the top performers from low-maintenance to moderate care.

Cactus 
Cacti are extremely hardy and actually prefer to be watered infrequently. You can water them once every five weeks in winter when growth is minimal and once every two weeks in the summer. The only requirement of these prickly desert plants is strong, direct sunlight. A south-facing window is fine. Choose a light soil with good drainage so that the roots do not become waterlogged. Now just sit back and watch your cactus grow…very slowly.

Spider Plant 
Don't let the name scare you away. This houseplant got its name from the shape of trailing shoots that hang down from the main part of the plant. These shoots can be placed in shallow water and within a week you will see roots forming. (It's a good idea to change the water every other day.) Within another week, the root system should be large enough for the shoot to be planted in soil. Although this plant requires moderate sunlight and regular watering at least you can grow new plants in case one dies!

Aspidistra 
Not even the gloomy window ledges of George Orwell's novel Keep the Aspidistra Flying were enough to kill this plant. Aspidistra refers to any of several Asiatic plants of the lily family. The dark green leaves are broad and taper to a point. The dull purple flowers have been graciously described as 'inconspicuous'. Despite the lacklustre reputation, this plant is quite striking and is certainly very hardy. It can thrive in dark nooks or direct sunlight as well as a wide range of temperatures-from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius.

African Violets 
This is the perennial favourite of indoor plants. Basic watering and moderate light will result in a steady production of blooms. Even fertilising this plant has been made simple-just push a fertiliser spike, formulated especially for African Violets, into the soil. The spikes slowly release fertiliser over a period of one to two months. The blooms are usually intense pink, purple or yellow. Check out your local garden store to find the perfect colour of flower to complement your décor.

Weeping Fig 
This plant bears little resemblance to the fruit-producing varieties found in orchards and back yards. The weeping fig has small, shiny leaves that droop down like water droplets hanging off the branches. The trunk is complex and attractive. Moderate light and moisture are all that's required to keep this plant healthy. Position it beside any window except one with a northern exposure. Typically, this plant reaches a maximum height of two metres, which makes it ideal for creating a dramatic impact in the limited space of most apartments. One warning however: pets seem to like chewing on the leaves of this plant so you may want to place it on a platform until the tree is tall enough that leaves are out of reach.

Palm 
If you really want winter to seem more tropical, consider adding a palm to your home. You may be most familiar with the spindly-stemmed variety with the large spiky crown that was popular in the 1980s! Fortunately, florists have begun importing a selection with a wider range of heights and shapes. Generally, palms need natural filtered light and water every five to seven days. You can put your palm on a balcony or patio in the summer as long as it does not receive direct, hot sunlight. Fertiliser is beneficial but not essential. Growth is slow in this plant which may or may not be a desired quality.

Purple Passion Plant 
This plant is named for the tiny purplish hairs that cover abundant small, pointed, green leaves. Hanging pots are a great way to showcase the downward leaf growth as well as reducing the likelihood of mealy bug infestation, which is common in this species. This plant requires direct sunlight from a south-facing window. Passion plants should not be over-watered. Either use a moisture metre available from garden stores or dig down about an inch into the soil using your fingertip to assess moisture levels before watering.

Whichever plant you decide to feel "passionate" about is sure to add a touch of summer's vitality to your home!


The real estate market and I have buyers still looking for the folllowing


3/4 bedroom in Old Meadowvale Village or Levi Creek and are willing to take a fixer upper
4 bedroom in Woodbridge with finished basements 


Contact me today at marianog@sutton.com or 416-256-7000 and stay tuned as I have some hot listings coming soon in Old Meadowvale Village.


Play Safe Out There,
Mariano 

Fun Family Fridays: Ontario Santa Claus Parades

Hey everyone, hope you are all doing well,  as you all know Christmas is coming up and I know that some of you with kids will be interested in seeing the big guy at some point during the holiday season.  Below is  a list of Ontario Santa Claus Parades courtesy of www.400eleven.com

November 2010

Belleville Santa Claus Parade
Belleville, ON
November 14, 2010   5pm
The Annual Nighttime Santa Claus Parade

Angus Santa Claus Parade
Ho! Ho! Ho! The annual Angus Santa Claus parade will be held on Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. Floats will be travelling along Mill Street to the Essa Arena. Don’t forget to stop at the arena for hot dogs, cookies, drinks and your photo with Santa. This year’s theme is Christmas Festival. If you are interested in entering a float please call Sandie at 705-424-6844 or Anne at 705-424-9709.

Bala Santa Claus Parade:
Bala, Ontario
November 13, 2010   1pm
Parade winds through the streets of Bala. Visit Santa after the parade at Bala Community Centre - plus a free skate for all at the arena!


Sudbury Santa Claus Parade
Sudbury, ON
November 13, 2010   5:30 pm
This year’s theme is “Musical Christmas”

Annual Barrie Santa Claus Parade
Barrie, ON
November 20, 2010  5:30 pm
Annual Santa Claus parade  Theme “What Christmas Means to Me”

Gravenhurst Annual Visit with Santa & Santa Claus Parade
Gravenhurst, ON
November 20, 2010   11am
Visit with Santa at the Gravenhurst senior centre at 12:30. Free family skate from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. We ask all families participating in the skate to bring one canned or non parishable food item towards our local food drive.

Owen Sound Santa Claus Parade
Owen Sound, ON
November 20, 2010    10am
Owen Sound Kiwanis Santa Claus Parade at 10:00 am Downtown

Sault Ste. Marie Santa Claus Parade
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
November 20, 2010  6pm
Twinkling lights, a nip in the air, and the anticipation of the upcoming holiday season set the stage for the Rotary Santa Claus Parade. Traditionally attracting more than 35 entries and more than 7,000 spectators, the parade is recognized by the community as Sault Ste. Marie's official kick-off to the Christmas season.

Bradford West Gwillimbury Santa Claus Parade
Bradford, ON 
November 20, 2010  6:30 pm

Keswick Santa Claus Parade
Keswick,  ON
November 20, 2010   1:30pm – 3:30pm

Kingston Santa Claus Parade
Kingston, ON
Kingston, Ontario 
November 20, 2010  Nighttime Santa Parade  5pm
Come on out and enjoy the lights and magic of this parade along downtown Princess Street.

Oshawa Santa Claus Parade
Oshawa, ON
November 20, 2010  6pm

Ottawa Santa Claus Parade
Ottawa, ON
November 20, 2010   5pm
From Canadian War Museum along Wellington Street to Ottawa City Hall

Newmarket Santa Claus Parade
Newmarket, ON
November 20, 2010   11am

North Bay Santa Claus Parade
North Bay, ON
November 21, 2010   12pm
This year's theme will allow for a great deal of creativity by the participants.

Orillia Santa Claus Parade
Orillia, ON
November 21, 2010
Join us for one of the largest Christmas parades north of Toronto! Over 100 floats & bands, & of course, Santa himself, bring "Santa's Workshop" to life

Cobourg Santa Claus Parade
Cobourg,  ON
November 21, 2010    2pm
On Dasher and Dancer, Prancer and Vixen! They will be there with the star attraction, at the annual Santa Claus Parade! Free family fun for the whole family.

Lindsay Santa Claus Parade
Lindsay, ON  
November 21, 2010   2pm

Port Severn Santa Claus Parade
Port Severn, ON
November 21, 2010    1 pm

Haliburton Santa Claus Parade
Haliburton, ON
November 26, 2010   6:30pm
The Haliburton Village Santa Claus Parade. Friday Nov. 26, 2010 6:30 pm. Another night-time spectacle of lights and music. Sparkling lights, floats, marchers, horses and bands all bringing in the Festive Season. Main Street, The Village of Haliburton.

Orangeville Santa Claus Parade
Orangeville, ON
To be determined

Mactier Santa Claus Parade
Mactier, ON
November 28,  2010 1pm

Bloomfield Santa Claus Parade
Bloomfield , ON
November 26, 2010

Elliott Lake Santa Claus Parade
Elliott Lake , ON
November 26, 2010   7pm

Huntsville Santa Claus Parade
Huntsville, ON
November 26, 2010    7pm
The Huntsville Santa Claus Parade starts in downtown Huntsville at 7:00 pm and travels to Huntsville Place Mall

Wasaga Beach Santa Claus Parade
Wasaga Beach, ON
November 27, 2010   2pm

Temiskaming Shores Santa Claus Parade
Temiskaming Shores, ON
November 27, 2010  evening parade

Minden Santa Claus Parade
Minden, ON
November 27, 2010 10:30am
Sponsored by the Township of Minden Hills in partnership with its volunteers, local businesses and organizations. Come and meet santa after the parade, hot chocolate, free photographs with santa, treats...lots of fun for the kids and kids at heart! Hope to see you there! Parade route from the public parking lot, Newcastle Street to Bobcaygeon Road, north on Bobcaygeon to Parkside and right to the S.G. Nesbitt Memorial Arena.

Pembroke Santa Claus Parade
Pembroke,  ON
November 27, 2010  5:30pm


Port Perry Santa Claus Parade
Port Perry, ON
November 27, 2010  5pm
One of the largest parades in Durham Region

Gananoque Santa Claus Parade
Gananoque, ON
November 27, 2010  evening parade
Come and visit Santa and all his reindeer at the annual Santa Clause Parade down King Street
Phone: (613) 382-1557

Aurora Santa Claus Parade
Aurora , ON
November 27, 2010   6pm


Brockville Santa Claus Parade
Brockville , Ontario
November 27, 2010  2pm

Espanola Santa Claus Parade
Espanola, Ontario
November 27, 2010 7pm

Elora Santa Claus Parade
Elora, ON
November 27, 210  6pm


Fenelon Falls Santa Claus Parade
Fenelon Falls, Ontario
Santa Day November 27th, 2010 11:00am
Santa Claus Parade November 27, 2010  5:00pm

Listowell Santa Claus Parade
Listowell ON
November 27, 2010

Port Elgin Santa Claus Parade
Port Elgin, ON
November 27, 2010  7pm

Parry Sound Santa Claus Parade
Parry Sound, Ontario
November 27, 2010  4:30pm
 

Walkerton Santa Claus Parade
Walkerton, ON
November 27, 2010 7pm

Uxbridge Santa Claus Parade
Uxbridge, ON
November 27, 2010  11am

Alliston Santa Claus Parade
Alliston, ON
November 27, 2010  6pm

Trenton Santa Claus Parade
Trenton ON
November 28, 2010  4:30pm


Waubaushene Santa Claus Parade
Waubaushene, ON
November 28, 2010

Picton Santa Claus Parade
Picton, ON
November 28, 2010 3pm
Start the weekend by dropping by the historic Crystal Palace to shop through the beautifully adorned

December 2010

Mount Forest Claus Parade
Mount Forest, ON
December 3, 2010  7pm

Barry’s Bay Santa Claus Parade
Barry’s Bay, ON
December 4, 2010  

Fergus Santa Claus Parade
Fergus, ON
December 4, 2010  5pm

Coldwater Santa Claus Parade
Coldwater, ON
December 4, 2010

Creemore Santa Claus Parade
Creemore,  ON
December 4, 2010   1:30pm

Kincardine Santa Claus Parade
Kincardine, ON
December 4, 2010  6:30pm

Lion's Head Santa Claus Parade
Lion's Head, ON
December 4, 2010   1pm

Perth Santa Claus Parade
Perth, ON
December 4, 2010  5pm

Peterborough Santa Claus Parade
Peterborough, ON
December 4, 2010  4:45pm

Tottenham Santa Claus Parade
Tottenham, Ontario
December 4, 2010  10am

Burk’s Falls Santa Claus Parade
Burk’s Falls, ON
December 4, 2010

Sutton Santa Claus Parade
Sutton, Ontario  5pm
December 4, 2010

Eganville Santa Claus Parade
Eganville, ON
December 5, 2010  

Wiarton Santa Claus Parade
Wiarton, Ontario
December 5, 2009

Midland Santa Claus Parade
Midland, Ontario
December 5, 2009 at 1:00 pm

Marmora Santa Claus Parade
Marmora
December 4, 2010
On Dasher and Dancer, Comet and Vixen! See them all, as well as the guest of honour, Santa himself at this year's Santa Claus Parade

Meaford Santa Claus Parade
December 4, 2010  6:30 pm
The Annual Meaford Santa Claus Parade delights young and old alike, thanks to the hard work of the Kinsmen Club.
Now, the parade has a special "twinkle" about it... it's held at night. The celebration will take place Saturday December 4, at 6:30 pm. It starts at Olivet Baptist Church and proceeds down Sykes Street past the Town Hall. Local businesses, service groups, churches and organizations prepare an array of creative floats, and of course, the highlight of the parade is Santa Claus, who greets excited children with merriment and candy bags. It's always a night to remember

Bancroft Santa Claus Parade
Bancroft, ON
December 4, 2010   2:30pm

Santa Claus Express South Simcoe Railway (Tottenham)
Share the Magic of Christmas... ride the SANTA CLAUS EXPRESS!
December 4th to 19th, 2010. Advance reservations available

Shelburne Santa Claus Parade
Shelburne, Ontario
December 4, 2010  5pm

Zurich Santa Claus Parade
Zurich, Ontario
December 5, 2010 5:30pm

Bracebridge Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade
December 5, 2010    1pm
Theme:  "A Teddy Bear Christmas".

Collingwood Santa Claus Parade
December 5, 2010 2pm

Bobcaygeon Santa Claus Parade
Bobcaygeon, Ontario
December 11, 2010  5pm

Baysville Santa Claus Parade
Baysville , Ontario
December 12, 2010   1 pm

A Portage Flyer Christmas - Evening train ride to Santa
at Muskoka Heritage Place
Huntsville, ON
Saturday, December 18, 2010
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.(last train 7:30 p.m.)
$5.00 per person
An evening of magic with all the joy & hope, sparkle, twinkle & dazzle of the festive season Last chance to tell Santa your side of the story!

Alma, Ontario
Alma 30th annual Santa Claus Parade is Dec. 19th, 2010
Young and old alike enjoy the event so plan to attend. You can enjoy the parade from your car or by standing along the main street - main street Alma.
Alma, or Alma Station, is a small village in north west of Toronto It is a part of the Township of Mapleton in North Wellington County and lies north of Elora, and south of Arthur. Local businesses include restaurants, car mechanics, and the local variety store, as well as a vibrant agricultural scene.

What You Need to Know about Smoke Detectors

Everyone dreads the idea of a fire destroying his or her home. It's hard to imagine the treasured possessions accumulated over a lifetime turned to ashes and charred remains. Even more difficult is coping with the irreplaceable loss of loved ones. Fortunately, much of this could be prevented. The number of reported fires in houses with smoke alarms is 10 times less than in those without alarms.   It is important to check your alarm's batteries at least twice a year. Most people tie it to the time change to make it easier to remember.

Most people realize that detectors are their best protection in a fire yet approximately 13% of Canadian households don't use them. A lack of information and reluctance to make the investment seem to be the main reasons. These homeowners put themselves in danger when they are most vulnerable. Statistically, the worst fires occur in the evening when people are sleeping. By the time they smell smoke or feel heat, the fire is rampant and the occupants of the home can become trapped or overcome by the carbon monoxide present in smoke. Alarms are designed to sound at the first sign of smoke increasing the odds that both the residents and their possessions will survive.

It's important to be aware that there are different types of fires and different types of detectors. Ionization alarms are triggered when smoke particles interrupt the ion current that flows between two metal plates. The advantage of these detectors is that the smoke can be invisible to the human eye, while remaining "visible" to the ionization detector. The ion conductivity is produced by a tiny amount of radioactive material-Americium-241 (or AM-241). Some research has been done which indicates ionization detectors may not be very good at detecting smouldering fires which produce small amounts of particles. These detectors work best in smoky fires such as kitchen fires.

Photoelectric devices work on an entirely different principle-smoke particles cross a steady beam of light and set off the alarm much like a motion sensor. There are conflicting reports on the efficiency of this detector and it is recommended that homeowners invest in a dual photoelectric/ionization device which combines both functions. At the very least, if you already have an ionization device you should invest in a photoelectric version and visa versa.

For greater protection install at least three alarms-one in the living room (41 percent of fatal fires start in the living room), one near the bedroom and one place few people think of-in the basement. Hot water heaters and furnaces in the basement can pose a significant fire hazard especially since a small fire there is likely to go unnoticed until the fire is too large to control.

You should also consider wiring your detectors for a chain-reaction. Normally, an isolated fire would have to burn intensely before setting off alarms at the opposite end of the home. Chain-reaction alarms sound simultaneously at the first sign of smoke giving your family valuable minutes to get to safety. When you purchase alarms, ask about connective wiring options.

Remember that tradition noise-producing alarms are ineffective for occupants who are deaf or hard of hearing. There have been great new innovations in the warning signal itself. A new product, The Scent of Life Signalling Device releases a pungent aerosol spray into the air when smoke is detected. This device also works well in high noise level areas. For more information on this product check out http://www.globweb.com/paradigm/solmain.htm. Strobe light alarms are also effective for the hearing impaired but must be placed well within view. If you opt for a strobe alarm for residential use be sure to place one in the bedroom.

The annual fire-death rate in houses without alarms is 130 deaths per million households. By installing several battery-operated detectors in each house, that rate would be reduced by almost two-thirds. Battery operated models range from $20-50. The safety rates are even better with wired-in smoke detectors which have been mandatory in new housing since 1980. These devices are more heat-resistant and reliable than battery operated alarms. Wired-in systems cost approximately $500.

Whichever system you choose be sure to follow installation and maintenance instructions. Battery operated models will either use staggered beeps or a blinking light to indicate low power. Don't wait that long though-install new batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings time in the spring and fall. You and your family will sleep easy knowing you're protected. Hopefully the only alarm you'll hear when you're sleeping will have a snooze button!

Reno Tuesday: Top 12 Bathroom Renovation Tips

As the weather gets colder, it is time to turn attention to those indoor projects in order to increase both your enjoyment as well as the value of your home.  Bathrooms are one of the key items that home buyers look at when purchasing and is one of the places where you can see a great return on your investment and an enhanced quality of life.

  

In ancient Rome, citizens who couldn't afford bathing facilities in their homes would visit public baths. These were not only places to scrub away the dust of the day, but they were also places to indulge in a warm soak surrounded by elegant décor and soothing music. Thousands of years later, the modern bathroom also offers functionality and comfort.

The difference today, however, is in the vast range of available fixtures, lighting, flooring, accessories, and wall coverings that incorporate function with style. If you are planning to renovate your bathroom, the following tips may help you select the best products and trends to suit your needs as well as conduct a successful renovation. 

Whether you wish to retile, add a stylish vanity or completely renovate your bathroom, you will find a stunning selection of new products on the market. Some of these use technology and modern materials to create durable, water-resistant products and others are innovative designs that improve on tradition.

1.     Bamboo flooring can provide the warmth of 'wood' in the bathroom with little risk of warping. This flooring is produced from tropical bamboo grass that has been processed to produce a flat, hard surface. In its natural state, bamboo is sandy beige but it can be stained to any colour. The floor must be sealed with polyurethane.

2.     Electronic faucets that activate when you put your hands under them are becoming popular for home decorating. They are a great way to save water, particularly for families with children who often like to leave the water running. Unlike the industrial-style electronic faucets found in public washrooms, homeowners will find a growing selection of elegant faucet styles.

3.     Perhaps the most radical design change that the bathroom sink has ever undergone is the vessel sink. It looks like a bowl sitting on the countertop but the bowl has drainage at the bottom that connects with standard plumbing. Vessel sinks have a simple, geometric look that works well with modern décor. These sinks are available in a variety of materials including glass, stainless steel, ceramic, stone, copper and more.

4.     Showerheads have also evolved. Computerized shower valves can be programmed to regulate water pressure and temperature.

5.     Etched glass has been used for years on dishware but now etched glass is used to create bathroom accessories and mirrors with a spa look.

6.     A 'rainwater' showerhead is a popular new innovation. Rather than a blast of pressurized water from a traditional showerhead, the rainwater version uses gravity. The showerhead is directly overhead and water falls in a soothing cascade.

7.     Bathrooms often have bright lights near the mirror to provide adequate illumination for shaving, applying makeup, etc. In many cases, the light over the mirror is the only one in the room. A new trend is to use sconce lighting to provide a warm glow of light in the rest of the room. By installing one light switch to control the vanity light and another to control the sconce lighting, you can create ambiance at the flick of a switch.

8.     If your bathroom is large enough, consider adding an elegant, comfortable chair. Furniture and built-in cabinets that resemble furniture are a popular new trend in bathroom design.

9.     In the spirit of luxury, entertainment has made its way into the bathroom. What could be nicer than reclining in the tub and listening to surround sound music or watching a movie on your television housed inside built-in cabinetry?

10. The bathroom is a great place to let your imagination run wild; there are no set rules about colour or style. Some general trends, however, are toward neutral coloured flooring and tile. Wood, particularly cherry wood, is becoming popular for cabinets and accents. Granite countertops, brushed metal faucets and whirlpool tubs are also in vogue.

11. Depending on the style of your bathroom, a chandelier might be perfect. If you equate chandeliers with large, elaborate fixtures, you will no doubt be surprised by the vast new selection of sleek and elegant new designs at lighting stores.

12. Natural light is an important element in the modern bathroom. If your bathroom lacks light, you may wish to consider renovating to add a window or glass blocks.

Renovation Tips

Once you have skimmed decorating magazines and visited home renovation showrooms, you may be ready to plan your remodelling project. If you live in a condominium, you should check your strata rules regarding renovations. You may find that there are restrictions on colours and products that will influence your project.

The next step is to consult a professional home renovator. Ideally, you should interview three renovators and obtain written quotes from each. When you have chosen a firm, they will be able to turn your drawings and suggestions into workable plans. Depending on the scope of the project, a professional renovator can advise you as to whether your renovation violates any municipal codes. They will also be able to provide expertise regarding the placement of electrical outlets, plumbing requirements, structural limitations, etc. Installing a whirlpool for example, involves all three of these considerations.

Remember that a renovation can take a while. If you are doing a major renovation, which involves removing the toilet or the shower, be sure to have a backup. If you have one bathroom in your home, you may need to befriend a neighbour!

The exciting new products on the market, along with careful planning and professional workmanship can help you create a personal spa atmosphere that provides function and luxury for years to come.