Winter can be Hard on Homes, and Fall is your last chance to get your Home in top shape to withstand any Harsh Winter Weather
 
Fall  Fertilizing

One of the first tasks you should tackle in the fall is cutting your grass short, and fall fertilize.  Also drain all fuel from your lawn mower and  give it a good cleaning, before you store it away for the winter. 
Before winter comes, get your plants in good shape to survive harsh weather by pruning them back and removing any dead branches or buds. Add mulch to garden beds so they’ll be ready for new growth in the spring. If you have cold-sensitive plants, you may want to winterize them by covering them with sheets of burlap.
Take the time  to clean out gutter and downspouts when leaves are falling. If you let leaves pile up in your window wells, they can trap water, causing the wells to flood. Clean them out whenever needed in the fall, so water can drain properly during winter.
Front Door
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to spruce up the front of your home is to give the front door a fresh coat of paint. 

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Our favourite thing to do every Halloween is decorate our home, both inside and out. It’s super easy (and fun) to make your own unique Halloween Decor,  

These easy DIY Halloween decorations look better than store bought and use items you may already have lying around the house. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started, and use your own imagination to add to it! 
Grab some wooden crates to Display your pumpkins, add some lanterns and fill with some small pumpkins and candles.    You can even add a basket for the candy for the trick or treaters  
Use fallen branches, it’s a cheap yet elegant way to decorate your front porch or entry way, leave them natural or spray paint black. Add some pumpkins and dollar store fake crows. 
Grab a witches cauldron or a large planter will work, for your front porch and fill with the  following ideas. Most of these items are can grab from the Dollar Store. 
Moss, cobwebs, cheesecloth, straw/hay 

Pumpkins 

Brooms 

Spiders and bugs 

Skulls

Crow 

Potion Bottle 

Spell Book 

Lights 


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As the colder months approach, it's time to prepare your home for the chilly weather ahead. As Realtors®, we understand the importance of ensuring your home is cozy, comfortable, and energy-efficient during this time. Here we will share some valuable tips to help you get your home ready for the colder months, ensuring a warm and inviting space for you and your loved ones.



1. Check Your Heating System:
 Before the temperatures drop it's a good idea to get your HVAC’s, Mini Split and Heat pumps cleaned and/or inspected by a professional. This also holds true for furnaces. A well-maintained heating system not only keeps you warm but also helps you save on energy bills.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate:
Drafts can make your home chilly and increase your heating costs. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. Additionally, consider adding insulation to your attic and walls to prevent heat loss and keep your home cozy.



3. Reverse Ceiling Fans:
Did you know that ceiling fans can be used in winter too? By reversing the direction of your ceiling fans, you can push warm air down and circulate it throughout the room. This simple trick can help you distribute heat more efficiently and keep your feeling more home comfortable.



4. Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace and gutters:
If you have a fireplace, it's essential to have it cleaned and inspected before using it. A professional chimney sweep can remove any debris or blockages, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Don't forget to stock up on firewood or consider alternative heating options like gas or electric fireplaces. Don’t forget about your gutters, this is super important after all fall when those leaves land in your gutters.



5. Protect Your Pipes:
Frozen pipes can be a nightmare during winter. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, garages, or crawl spaces. If you're going away for an extended period, consider leaving your faucets dripping slightly to prevent freezing.



6. Prepare Your Outdoor Space:
Winterizing your outdoor space is equally important. Clean and store your outdoor furniture, drain and store garden hoses, and cover your grill. If you have a sprinkler system, make sure to drain it to prevent freezing and potential damage.



Getting your home ready for the colder months doesn't have to be a daunting task.

By following these tips, you can create a warm and inviting space while also saving on energy costs. Remember, a well-prepared home not only keeps you comfortable but also adds value and appeal if you ever decide to sell. Stay cozy and enjoy the winter season in your well-prepared home! Don’t forget about the Take Charge NL rebate programs that you may be eligible for.

Thinking about selling your home in the coming months? We’d love the opportunity to provide a no obligation market evaluation. Just click this link to get started!

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Having a healthy home is so important. After all it is where you spend most of your time with your loved ones.

We’ve compiled a few tips to help you create a healthier space.

Let in the fresh air.

Open your windows twice per day to let fresh air into your home. Did you know that people in Germany do this no matter the weather? This is called "frisches Luft"
 

Choose cleaning products carefully.

Many cleaning products contain harmful chemicals or fumes, you may want to avoid this for your families/ pet’s sake. Harmful chemicals  absorb through our skin. When inhaled it can lead to respiratory distress, especially in those with health conditions or young children. Try baking soda or vinegar mixed with fresh lemon juice or essential oils for cleaning. (It gets the job done!)


Live with plants.

Plants can help filter your air since they absorb CO2, and they are stress-reducing. That's a win-win!
 

Wash your bed sheets often.

Some of the 500 million cells we shed daily could be coming to bed with us, so washing your sheets on a regular basis, once per week, can make everything clean and fresh.
 

Consider adding an air purifier and/or dehumidifier.

Indoor air pollution is a problem that you can't see, but it can control odours, chemical vapours, and pollutants in your home. Investing in a dehumidifier is almost mandatory for our Newfoundland climate. You may not even realize your home needs one, until you plug it in and watch watch it pull the access humidity from your home.

Keep your home dry.


Prevent water from entering your home through leaks in roofing systems, rain water from entering the home due to poor drainage, and check your interior plumbing for any leaking.

Keep it Well-Ventilated


Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens and use whole house ventilation for supplying fresh air to reduce the concentration of contaminants in the home.

Keep it Pest-free


Before we know it, that time of year will be upon us. All pests look for food, water and shelter. Seal cracks and openings throughout the home; store food in pest-resistant containers. If needed, use sticky-traps and baits in closed containers, along with least toxic pesticides such as boric acid powder.

Keep your home Maintained


Inspect, clean and repair your home routinely. Take care of minor repairs and problems before they become large repairs and problems

Don’t forget to control the temp.


Houses that do not maintain adequate temperatures may place the safety of residents at increased risk from exposure too extreme cold or heat. Not to mention health concerns.

We hope you found these tips helpful, feel free to comment below with other tips you may have.

How much is my home worth?

Unlike some other provinces in Canada, Newfoundland  is one of the provinces that still permits Dual Agency

What is Dual Agency you ask?

A dual agency is when a real estate salesperson represents both the buyer and seller for the same transaction.

Is it a Good Idea to Buy with the Listing Agent, or is it better to have your own Buyer's Agent? 

The listing agent is required  to disclose to you that they will be putting their vendors interests first nor do they  have any obligation to act in your best interests. The listing agent is hired by the seller, and their job is to get the best possible price for the property. The listing agent can also prioritize the buyer's best interest, whether its on price, home inspection, etc.  Like I said their first obligation is to the Seller. You may not get the best deal if you try to negotiate directly with the listing agent.

Buyer agents are licensed real estate professional who represents your interests in the transaction. They can help you find the right property, negotiate the best deal, and guide you through the entire home-buying process. A competent buyer's agent will have your best interests in mind, always!

Selling Agent and Listing Agents Role in a Real Estate Transaction

The listing agent's job is to use their extensive resources to effectively market the property and answer any questions related to the listing.

On the other side of the transaction is the buyer's agent, who represents the buyer's interests and helps them find them a home.  The buyer’s agent can help with searching, setting up showings, asking the right questions and negotiating on the buyer’s behalf. 

Finding a Buyers Agents

To find a buyer's agent that is right for , start with asking friends and family for recommendations or searching online for agents in your area.  Look for someone who is experienced, knowledgeable about the local market, and genuine.

Once you've found an agent you're comfortable with, it's important to establish clear communication and trust in that agent, remember they are there to help you through one of the most important decision you will make.   Be upfront about your budget, preferences, and timeline, and be willing to listen to their advice and guidance. Remember that the buyer's agent works for you, and their goal is to help you find the right home and make the best possible deal.

If you're considering buying a home, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of working with the listing agent  and ensure you have a clear understanding of the agent's obligations to the Vendor and the risks of dual agency.

If you have any questions about buyers' agents, consider connecting with us, we have over 25 years experience between us . Working with both home buyers and sellers, we will work with you from start to finish and guide you through the process. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident in your purchase or sale.

We operate in an industry built on trust. This can only be achieved through communication and great experiences - from the first contact until the closing of the transaction and beyond!

Contact us today, we will help guide you HOME!

If you’re trying to decide if now’s the time to sell your house, here’s what you should know. The limited number of homes available right now in the greater St. Johns area  gives you a big advantage.  There are  more buyers out there than there are homes available for sale at present.  And, with so few homes on the market, buyers have fewer options, with this said  you set yourself up to get the best price for your house in today’s market. 

Here’s are some facts the  industry experts are saying about why selling your home or investment properties now has its benefits:

 1. “Inventory levels are still at historic lows. Consequently, multiple offers are happening on a good number of properties.”

    2.  “We have not seen the traditional uptick in new listings from existing homeowners, so under supply of housing will continue to heighten market competition and put pressure on prices in most regions.”

 3.” Well-priced, move-in ready homes with curb appeal in desirable areas are still receiving multiple offers and selling for over the asking price.
“

 4.) “Sellers who price  their home competitively don’t last long on the market.”

If you’re thinking about selling your home, connect with a real estate  advisor who can share the expert insights you need to make the best possible move today.

CONTACT US TODAY

City Days starts Thursday July 20 and runs until July 22,   here is the link for the schedule of events each day   https://www.mountpearl.ca/citydays/?fbclid=IwAR0PFrQ8xpUB5sqJdgY7S-BAPW21_a8YMiWyr0cHmKbVqCjqjzIdJbBwUsw

From concerts to yoga, family movies, and everything in between, there’s something for everyone to do in Mount Pearl.

  The Park is situated next to City Hall.

Come out and enjoy the beautiful summer weather while listening to some great music. This event will highlight different talents all summer long.

 Mount Pearl’s new addition is  commercial kiosk’s along the trails , The first one will be occupied by Eva's Chimneys NL for the summer and will be located at the end of Forest Avenue.  When you are taking that stroll through the trails why not stop and enjoy a Handmade Hungarian-inspired treat.    Keep an eye out there is a launch party on Thursday July 13th.

A stroll and a soft serve, what’s not to love?  

Contact us to have a chat on buying and selling in Mount  Pearl,

This city of Mount Pearl is located on the eastern side of the island of Newfoundland, just southwest of the capital city of St. John’s. Mount Pearl is known for being a comfortable, safe city surrounded by green space. It has a population of around 22,000 people and was named after Sir James Pearl, a navy captain that was granted 500 acres of land. Curious to know if this could be the perfect place to call home? There are many things to consider about moving to a new city, a Read on and discover some pros and cons of living in Mount Pearl, NL.  

  What are the Advantages of Moving to Mount Pearl? 

  Mount Pearl is Very Close to the Capital City, St. John’s 

 St. John’s is the largest municipality in Newfoundland and is only a stone’s throw away from Mount Pearl, located on the Avalon Peninsula. This means residents can get the best of both worlds: laid-back country living right next door to all the essential amenities and entertainment options in all of Newfoundland. St. John’s has an international airport, allowing for convenient transport to major Canadian cities and across the Atlantic toward Europe, among other amenities. 

 Out of all the places to live in the province, Mount Pearl has the advantage of being less than a 20-minute drive to St. John’s while still holding its own as being a comfortable place to call home. Mount Pearl’s extensive park space complements the nearby city life,  Mount Pearl is known as a city within a park. You can enjoy over 60 parks, playgrounds, and trails, as well as a swimming pool, fitness centre and skating arena. All parks and facilities, as well as the Admiralty House Communications Museum, are linked through 60 kilometers of beautiful forested walkways.     Other municipalities like Paradise and Conception Bay South can be found west, placing Mount Pearl between several additional shopping and recreational options. Mount Pearl is ideal for families and retirees. It has a strong Neighbourhood Watch Program. 

 Mount Pearl is known as a city within a park. Enjoy over 60 parks, playgrounds, and trails, as well as a swimming pool, fitness centre and skating arena. All parks and facilities, as well as the Admiralty House Communications Museum, are linked through 60 kilometers of beautiful forested walkways. 

Mount Pearl has multiple state-of-the-art recreational facilities which draw provincial and national competitions to the city. It has two high schools, three intermediate schools and three primary/elementary neighbourhood schools. 

When it comes to community events Mount Pearl will not disappoint, the city hosts year round events. Linked here you will find a full calendar of events for the upcoming  CITY DAYS 2023

“Let’s celebrate our city! City Days is bursting with opportunities to enjoy everything Mount Pearl has to offer.

From concerts to yoga, family movies, and everything in between, there’s something for everyone!”

Visit here for details!

#MountPearl #CityDays2023

  Housing Prices Are Very Affordable 

 Mount Pearl is a great option if you dream of buying your own home. This city still has home prices under half a million. If you are looking for luxury homes, Mount Pearl has those too. The median household income is around $80,000, so several options are available depending on your budget.  

Interested in renting? Budget between $900-$1500, and you can rent almost anything you want. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around $900 a month in Mount Pearl, compared to $1600 in Halifax (Nova Scotia) or $1100 in Fredericton (New Brunswick).  

 The city’s eastern section is almost exclusively residential neighbourhoods surrounded by park space. Single-family detached homes comprise most of the residential real estate listings, making them perfect for families. There are also many duplexes in the area, allowing for additional budget-friendly options. The city’s western section can be considered the commercial district, containing the majority of shops, restaurants, and essential services. 

  What are the Disadvantages of Moving to Mount Pearl? 

  Newcomers May Have a Hard Time Finding a Family Doctor 

All over the country, finding a family doctor has become an increasing problem. In Newfoundland, this statistic continues, with about a quarter of the population going without a family doctor. Though some people can go years without seeing a doctor (whether they should or shouldn’t is another matter), those with medical concerns that need monitoring through tests and prescription medications will have a harder time managing their illness without a designated family doctor.   

If you are moving from another place in Newfoundland, you may be able to keep your family doctor and commute. However, if you are coming to Newfoundland from another part of the country, be prepared for a potentially long waiting list to get a family doctor. If you require ongoing prescription medications, arriving with a few months’ supply of properly labelled prescription vials will give you a bit of a supply while you settle in, as well as provide valuable information for a doctor at a walk-in clinic.  

 Mount Pearl Does Not Have a Hospital 

 The city of Mount Pearl does not have its own hospital, but don’t fret too much just yet. St. John’s has a couple of hospitals and is only a short drive away (less than 15 minutes). In addition, Mount Pearl has several medical clinics for less concerning manners. While this may appear as a downside, the fact that the nearest hospital is in the next city means that there is the possibility of less noise pollution from ambulances and less crowding at the several medical clinics. Actual emergencies can be directed to the hospitals in St. John’s, and things like prescription renewals and checkups can be reserved for medical clinics.  

Other Considerations Associated with Moving to Mount Pearl 

Climate is Generally Mild   

Are Newfoundland and Labrador all about snow and icebergs? Perhaps farther in the north, but luckily at Mount Pearl, it is generally a different story. The climate for Mount Pearl is usually comfortable year-round. 

Summertime temperatures reach highs of around mid 20’s celsius. There are warm sunny days, but they are usually not to the degree of dangerous heat waves. In contrast, winters get down to about minus 10 degrees Celsius. 

You can also expect a couple of feet of snow in the winter months. Mount Pearl is very vigilant about removing snow from roads and even has an online Snow Plow Tracker that shows exactly where the snow plows are on the map. It is worth considering how much extra time may be needed during snow days when commuting to ensure you have a vehicle capable of driving on roads that have not yet been plowed. 

If you’re thinking of moving to Mount Pearl or selling your home  we would love to help!

CONTACT US 

Oh Canada, let’s celebrate!

If you’re staying around the house this long weekend there are lots of activities to take in!

Here is a round-up of things to do this Canada Day long weekend in Mount Pearl, St.John’s, Paradise, CBS and The Southern Shore.

Be sure to click the links for details and share with your family and friends.

First up we have Mount Pearl

July 1st 2023. 1:00pm-4:00pm . St.David’s Park, Mount Pearl.

“Join us for a family friendly celebration of Canada’s birthday! There will be multicultural performances and food, live entertainment by Rum Ragged, bouncy castles, cupcakes and more! Don’t forget to wear your red and white!

FREE to attend! No registration required. Food banks will be onsite accepting non-perishable food items.”

ENTERTAINMENT

Change Makers NL and St. John’s Mi’kmaq Women’s Circle – 1:15pm to 1:30pm

Chaturrvi Maruthireddy – 1:35pm to 1:50pm

Official Ceremonies – 1:55pm to 2:10pm

Hierrito Onelvis Fernandez – 2:15pm to 2:30pm

Dolya Dance Company – 2:35pm to 2:50pm

Rum Ragged – 3pm to 4pm

 Click for more info

Next up we have St.John’s.

July 1st starting at 6:00am. Multiple locations and times. Free of charge

“Join us this July 1 as the City of St. John's celebrates Canada Day. From sunrise to sunset, there's something for everyone! With support from the Government of Canada, the City of St. John's and our event partners will highlight many of the reasons we are proud to call Canada home.

All Canada Day events are accessible and all activities are free of charge.”

Sunrise celebration from 6 to 7 a.m.

“Be among the first in the country to experience the Canada Day Celebrations. The day begins with a sunrise event at 6 a.m. at Signal Hill National Historic Site. A free, wheelchair accessible Metrobus shuttle will bring you from the Signal Hill Visitor Centre up to Cabot Tower. After the return shuttle, join everyone for free birthday cupcakes at the Signal Hill Visitor Centre.”

Free family fun and entertainment from 1 to 5 p.m.

“A full afternoon of free family fun and entertainment will take place at King George V Park from 1 to 5 p.m. The event will include bouncy castles, laser tag, balloon twisters, interactive games, a cultural concert and activities, free birthday cupcakes and much more.”

The Community Food Sharing Association will be at King George V Park collecting nonperishable food items and cash donations.

Inclement weather location: Techniplex. Pets are not permitted at King George V Park or in the Techniplex.

Live music and fireworks show from 8 to 10 p.m.

“The evening will be sure to entertain with a live concert at the Quidi Vidi Bandstand at 8 p.m. followed by fireworks at 10 p.m.

For a full list of performers and groups as well as additional details click here

Paradise:

Paradise Park July 1st, 2023. 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 

Free for activities, standard price applies for Thomas Amusements. All ages welcome

“Celebrate Canada's birthday with us at Paradise Park! We have a ton of fun activities planned (including Thomas Amusements) that you won't want to miss. There will be a bouncy castle, face painting, laser tag, Zorb Ball, an art zone, and archery for the kiddos! We even have special guests from the Avalon Princesses (Belle and Ariel), a superhero show with Captain America and Spiderman. Oh, and don't miss the reptile show from Jellybean Entertainment, I Fly Aerial Arts, and performances by Courtney Fowler Performance Arts youth singers!

For the young at heart, we have a beer garden, BBQ, and performances by Bollywood Dancers, Black Sheep, Dana Parsons Project, Damian Follet and Friends, and Celtic Connection! And if you're a thrill seeker, Thomas Amusements will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

At the end of the night, we'll decorate the sky with fireworks! Fore more info click here

Schedule of Events

1:00 pm - Thomas Amusements Opens

2:00 pm - Avalon Princesses (Belle and Ariel)

2:40 pm - I Fly Aerial Arts

3:20 pm - Reptile Show from Jellybean Entertainment

3:50 pm - Free BBQ (Hot Dogs – First come, First Serve)

4:00 pm - Super Hero Show (Captain American and Spiderman)

4:40 pm - CFPA- Youth singers

5:00 pm - Beer Garden Opens (19+)

5:20 pm - Bolleywood Dancers

6:00 pm - Black Sheep

7:00 pm - Dana Parsons Project

8:00 pm - Damian Follet and Friends

9:00 pm - Celtic Connection

10:00 pm - Fireworks

11:00 pm- Thomas Amusements Closes

If you’d rather be closer to salt water we have CBS and Bay Bulls next.

Conception Bay South

Daytime:July 1st, 20231:00-3:00167 Red Bridge Road, Sgt. Ned Nugent’s Field 

Canada Day in Conception Bay South with live musical entertainment, bouncy castles, a free BBQ and cake, and more great activities! 

 Fireworks : A beautiful fireworks display will occur at 10:00 p.m. from Cronin’s Head Lookout on Pond

Click here to learn more, including information on the Memorial Day Service and Fireworks Show.

Bay Bulls-Witless Bay

Bay Bulls Regional Lifestyle Centre - 2 Southside Road, Bay Bulls.

July 1st 11:00am-2:00pm

There will be bouncy castles, balloon twist, face painting, games, BBQ & more.

Musical performances by :Ava Power and Aiden O’Brien, Jessica Power & Richard Parsons Jr.

Fireworks display will take place sundown at Bears Cove Beach in Witless Bay.

Fore more details click here

However you choose to celebrate this weekend, have fun and be safe!

Your YYT REALTOR ® Duo Jackie Kavanagh and Maggie-Lynn Burke.