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Warm Up Your Home This Winter With a Hot Chocolate Bar

One of the greatest joys of owning a home is the memories you make inside. A hot chocolate bar is the ultimate way to elevate any winter gathering, offering guests a fun and interactive experience. Whether it's a cozy night with family or a party with friends and neighbours, creating a DIY hot chocolate station will bring warmth and joy to any occasion. 

Here's how to set up the perfect hot chocolate bar everyone will love:

1. Choose the Right Location

Start by selecting an area in your home that can accommodate a small station for the hot chocolate bar. A kitchen counter, dining table, or living room corner can work well. Ideally, you want a place where guests can comfortably gather around and help themselves.

If you're hosting a larger event, consider setting up your hot chocolate station on a buffet table, complete with a decorative tablecloth to set the scene. Ensure the station is easily accessible and has enough space for guests to move around.

2. Pick Your Hot Chocolate Base

A good hot chocolate bar starts with the perfect base. You should offer at least two or three hot chocolate options so guests can choose their preferred flavor.

  • Classic Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy classic hot chocolate is a must-have. Use high-quality cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a decadent flavor. You can prepare the base in a slow cooker or large pot to keep it warm throughout the event.

  • White Hot Chocolate: White hot chocolate is a delicious option for those who prefer a lighter version. It's made with white chocolate and milk, providing a sweet, creamy drink that contrasts nicely with the classic version.

  • Flavored Hot Chocolates: Unique flavors such as peppermint, salted caramel, or cinnamon can add a twist to your hot chocolate bar. Offering flavored syrups or infusions allows guests to personalize their drink and try something new.

3. Offer a Variety of Toppings

The key to a successful hot chocolate bar lies in the toppings. Make sure you have a diverse selection that allows your guests to customize their drinks to their liking. Here are some fun and festive topping ideas:

  • Marshmallows: Offer a variety of marshmallows, such as mini, large, or flavored ones like chocolate-dipped ones.

  • Whipped Cream: A must for any hot chocolate lover! You can serve traditional whipped cream or flavored versions like cinnamon or chocolate whipped cream.

  • Chocolate Shavings or Chips: To make the drink even more indulgent, add a bit of extra chocolate, such as chocolate shavings, chips, or grated chocolate.

  • Caramel Sauce or Syrups: For added flavor, offer various syrups, such as caramel, butterscotch, and chocolate sauce, for guests to drizzle on top.

  • Nuts and Spices: For a little extra crunch and flavor, include toppings such as chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder for a bit of heat.

4. Include Warm Add-Ons

In addition to toppings, you can include a few warm add-ins to make the hot chocolate even more delightful. Consider offering:

  • Flavored Liquors: For an adult-only touch, provide options like Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, or amaretto that guests can add to their hot chocolate for a boozy twist.

  • Hot Coffee or Espresso: Offer a hot coffee option for those who like combining hot chocolate with a little java. A shot of espresso can add a sophisticated flavor to the mix.

5. Add Some Decorative Elements

A hot chocolate bar isn't just about the drink — it's about creating an inviting and festive atmosphere. Here are some decorative touches to make your hot chocolate station visually appealing:

  • Themed Tableware: Use fun mugs, festive cups, or mason jars to serve the hot chocolate. For a special touch, you can even personalize the mugs with guests' names.

  • Winter Decorations: Decorate the area with cozy, winter-themed elements like faux snow, twinkling lights, pinecones, and garlands. Try labeling the toppings with wooden crates or a chalkboard sign for a more rustic feel.

  • Serving Containers: Use clear jars or bowls to make the toppings easy to see. Label each topping with a small sign or tag so guests know their selection.

6. Organize the Station

Once you have all the elements prepared, arrange them on your table or counter. Here's a suggested layout:

  • Hot chocolate base: To stay warm throughout the event, keep your hot chocolate base(s) in large containers, such as slow cookers or thermoses.

  • Toppings: Arrange your toppings in small bowls or jars across the table.

  • Add-ins and extras: For easy access, place your syrups, marshmallows, whipped cream, and warm add-ins like liquor or coffee at the front.

  • Serveware: Place spoons, stirrers, and napkins near the bar so guests can help themselves.

7. Provide Drink Accessories

Make the hot chocolate bar more enjoyable by offering drink accessories like stir sticks, spoons, and festive straws. You can also provide napkins for any spills or drips.

A hot chocolate bar is a delightful and interactive way to add a touch of warmth and whimsy to your winter gatherings. With various drink bases, fun toppings, and seasonal decorations, your guests will enjoy customizing their perfect cup of hot chocolate. Your hot chocolate station will be a hit with all ages, creating lasting memories and plenty of sweet moments.

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2024 Victoria Real Estate Market Year in Review

A total of 421 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this December, 28 per cent more than the 329 properties sold in December 2023 and a 23.6 per cent decrease from November 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 25 per cent from December 2023 with 135 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 20.9 per cent from December 2023 with 191 sold. A grand total of 6,893 properties sold over the course of 2024, an 11 per cent increase from the 6,207 sold in 2023.

“2024 was a fairly calm year for local real estate,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “And this is what we like to see for consumers! It has been a year of stability and predictability. Prices have been relatively level for the past two years now, which has made it easier for buyers and sellers to navigate transactions with confidence. Even though 2024 had more months with over 3,000 listings than we have had in many years, we do continue to see low inventory levels when compared to long term averages. If inventory remains low and we see an increase in demand, we could very quickly return to a market where there is upward pressure on pricing. This is why the Board will continue to advocate for gentle density development in 2025.”

There were 2,290 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of December 2024, a decrease of 19.3 per cent compared to the previous month of November but a 7.4 per cent increase from the 2,132 active listings for sale at the end of December 2023.

“The future for the market is of course impossible to predict,” added Chair Lidstone. “Recent changes that extend amortization periods for first time buyers, and updates to the property transfer tax thresholds help make homes more attainable, and hopefully help more people to enter the housing market. Consistent interest rates will also increase the ability for folks to make a move. As always, our market is subject to many influences and the purchase and sale process is complex. If you are contemplating buying or selling in 2025, call your favourite local REALTOR® who can create the best strategy for you and for your property.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in December 2023 was $1,272,000. The benchmark value for the same home in December 2024 increased by 2.7 per cent to $1,306,400, up 0.3 per cent from November’s value of $1,302,900. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in December 2023 was $556,500 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in December 2024 decreased by 1.6 per cent to $547,800, an increase of 0.6 per cent from the November value of $544,400.

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Protecting Your Home During Holiday Travel

Whether you are visiting family for the holidays or planning a relaxing winter getaway, ensuring the safety of your home while you're away is essential. Taking a few proactive steps can reduce the risk of break-ins, water damage, or other unforeseen issues, allowing you to enjoy your vacation worry-free. 

Here's how to protect your home during holiday travel.

1. Secure All Entry Points

Before leaving, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. This includes the obvious front and back doors and less commonly used entry points like basement windows, garage doors, and sliding patio doors. If your locks are outdated, consider upgrading to deadbolts or smart locks for added security. And don't forget to secure your garage. If your garage has an automatic door opener, unplug it while you're away to prevent hackers from accessing the system.

2. Install a Security System

A home security system is one of the most effective ways to deter potential burglars. Modern systems include cameras, motion detectors, and door/window sensors that can be monitored remotely through your smartphone. Many systems also allow you to receive real-time alerts about unusual activity. If you already have a security system, ensure it's in working order before leaving. Visible security cameras and signs indicating a monitored system can be strong deterrents.

3. Use Smart Home Technology

Smart home devices can make your house appear occupied even when you're not there. Smart lights can be programmed to turn on and off at random intervals, mimicking your usual routine. Smart blinds can also open and close periodically. These small adjustments can make your home less of a target. Some devices allow you to monitor your home remotely. Smart thermostats, for example, let you control the temperature to prevent issues like frozen pipes without wasting energy.

4. Enlist Help from Neighbours

A trusted neighbour can be one of your best resources for protecting your home. Ask them to monitor your property, collect mail, and bring in packages or newspapers to avoid signaling an empty home. Leave them a key and contact information in emergencies. Depending on the season, you might also consider arranging for someone to shovel snow or maintain the yard to keep up appearances.

5. Don't Advertise Your Absence

While sharing holiday plans on social media is tempting, avoid posting details until after you return. Announcing your travel plans publicly can inadvertently alert potential burglars. Instead, keep your plans limited to trusted friends and family.

6. Prepare for Emergencies 

Unforeseen events like water leaks, electrical issues, or power outages can cause significant damage if left unattended. Before leaving, turn off the main water supply to prevent leaks or install a water leak detector with automatic shut-off capabilities. Unplug non-essential electronics to avoid the risk of electrical fires or power surges. Additionally, ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. If possible, install devices that send alerts to your phone in an emergency.

7. Create the Illusion of Occupancy 

Leaving a car in the driveway or having a neighbour park there occasionally can create the impression that someone is home. Similarly, timed outdoor lights can add to this illusion.

Taking these steps can significantly enhance the safety of your home during your holiday travel. By combining modern technology, good neighbourly relationships, and a bit of strategic planning, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing your home is well-protected.

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Planning Your Home Sale Timeline: From Prep to Closing

Selling a home is a significant undertaking that requires abundant planning. However, with a well-structured timeline to help you stay on track, you can remain organized as you navigate the complexities of the selling process. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create an effective home sale timeline:

1. Evaluate Your Readiness to Sell

The first thing you need to do about six to 12 months from when you would want to close is thoroughly evaluate your readiness to sell. Consider a few factors when determining your readiness, such as your financial situation, market conditions, and lifestyle needs. You will have the best luck selling for a good price in a market where buyers have less inventory. You also want to ensure that it's the right time to move to a different property and that you will have the finances to do so. When planning financially for your move, you will want to calculate your home equity and evaluate how that aligns with your plans for purchasing your next property.

2. Hire a Real Estate Agent

You must work with a local real estate agent with experience and a proven track record of successful home sales to attract the most buyers and get the most competitive price. You will want to hire an agent about 3-6 months before listing your property to have time to prepare adequately. Start by checking out some reviews of agents in your area online and interview a few until you find the right match. 

3. Clean and Make Repairs

A couple of the most important steps, which you should take about 3-4 months before listing your property, are cleaning up and making necessary repairs or upgrades. Cleaning the house should always begin with decluttering and organizing the space by removing unnecessary items you're not planning to bring to your next home. A pre-listing inspection can help you identify what in the home may need to be fixed or replaced, as can your agent.

4. Discuss the Selling Strategy

A good sales strategy begins with setting a competitive price. Your real estate agent can help you determine a fair price for your home in the current market by providing you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. Aside from pricing, you will want to discuss digital marketing assets like property photos and videos with your agent and plans for home tours and open houses a few months before listing. 

5. Launch and Monitor Listing Progress

Once your agent completes all the necessary procedures and has prepared the proper marketing, they will launch your listing on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Once your listing is active, they should update you frequently on buyer engagement and interest. You will want to keep it tidy inside and out while your home is on the market to accommodate frequent showings or drive-bys. 

6. Evaluate Offers and Negotiate

Once you get an offer or even multiple, you will want to evaluate the price along with the terms and conditions of the sale, such as a timeline for closing and any contingencies. Depending on the quality of the offers, you may want to negotiate for the best price possible. You will want to ask your agent for negotiation advice as they likely have more experience.

7. Prepare for Closing

Finally, to prepare for closing, you must coordinate with lawyers, inspectors, and lenders to ensure you complete all necessary paperwork and have all the documents needed to close the transaction. Once you accept an offer, you can expect the transaction to close in about 1-2 months. 

By carefully planning your home sale timeline, you can make informed decisions, reduce stress, and achieve your goals. Whether you are moving across town or the country, this process sets the foundation for a successful transition.

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Eco-Friendly Ideas for Holiday Decorating

The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and creativity. However, it can also result in significant waste and environmental impact. Adopting eco-friendly holiday décor reduces your carbon footprint and encourages sustainable traditions. 

Here are some creative and environmentally conscious ideas for decorating your home this holiday season.

1. Natural Decorations

Nature provides endless inspiration for holiday décor. Pinecones, branches, dried flowers, and evergreen boughs make beautiful, biodegradable decorations. You can create garlands by stringing together cranberries, popcorn, or dried orange slices. These can be composted after the holidays, leaving no waste behind.

Consider using potted plants instead of a cut Christmas tree. A small potted pine, spruce, or fir can be decorated with ornaments and lights and later replanted in your garden or cared for indoors.

2. DIY Ornaments

Homemade ornaments are eco-friendly and add a personal touch to your holiday décor. Craft unique decorations using materials like fabric scraps, paper, or salt dough. For example, cut old greeting cards into festive shapes or create origami ornaments using recycled paper.

Repurposing household items like bottle caps, wine corks, or mason jar lids can also result in stunning ornaments. Involve your family in these projects to make the decorating process a shared experience.

3. Sustainable Wrapping and Display

Swap traditional wrapping paper, which often contains plastic and glitter, for reusable or recyclable alternatives. Use fabric wraps, newspaper, or brown kraft paper decorated with stamps or drawings. Store-bought gift bags can also be reused year after year.

Display wrapped gifts as part of your décor by stacking them under the tree or on shelves. Adding simple ribbons or sprigs of greenery can elevate the presentation while keeping it eco-conscious.

4. Energy Efficient Lighting

Holiday lights are a staple of festive décor, but they can consume much energy. Instead, opt for LED lights, which use significantly less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. Solar-powered outdoor lights are another excellent choice.

To reduce energy consumption, set your lights on a timer so they're only on during peak evening hours. This practice saves energy and extends the life of your light strings.

5. Upcycled and Vintage Finds

Thrift stores and vintage shops are treasure troves for unique and sustainable holiday décor. Look for second-hand ornaments, candleholders, and table linens. Upcycling old items into festive decorations can also be a rewarding and eco-friendly hobby. For instance, turn an old sweater into stockings or make a lantern out of a glass jar.

6. Edible Decorations

Incorporating food into your decorations can add charm and reduce waste. Adorn your tree with gingerbread cookies, candy canes, or cinnamon sticks, and then enjoy them later. Create a stunning centerpiece with a fruit bowl or a wreath with dried herbs and spices.

7. Avoid Single-Use Plastic

Whenever possible, avoid decorations made of single-use plastics. Instead, invest in high-quality, durable pieces that you can use year after year. Choose biodegradable materials, like wood or fabric, over plastic.

By embracing these eco-friendly holiday décor ideas, you can celebrate the season while honouring the planet. Sustainable decorating reduces waste and fosters creativity and mindfulness, making the holidays even more meaningful.

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Home Selling Psychology: How to Overcome Emotional Attachment

When selling a home, it can be challenging to remove emotional attachment. Whether it's the house where you and your spouse first lived, where you raised a family, or where you've created lasting memories, selling it can feel like an emotional process. However, too much emotional investment can interfere with making sound, objective decisions. 

Here's how to manage and remove emotional attachment when selling a home:

1. Understand That It's a Financial Transaction

First and foremost, shifting your mindset from thinking of your home as an emotional space to thinking of it as a financial asset is crucial. While your home has been the setting for important life events, it's also an investment, and selling it is a business decision. Focusing on the financial gain, market conditions, and sale price can help you reframe the process.

To do this effectively, research the real estate market, understand current trends, and consider how selling your home will positively impact your finances. Whether it's downsizing, upgrading, or investing the proceeds elsewhere, keeping your eyes on the financial outcome will help detach from the sentimental value.

2. Depersonalize the Space

Depersonalizing your home is a crucial step in emotionally detaching from it. Remove personal items like family photos, children's artwork, and other objects tied to your memories. This will help you see the property as a house, not your home.

From a practical perspective, depersonalizing also allows potential buyers to envision the space as their future home, increasing the likelihood of a sale. When the house is no longer filled with personal items, it will feel less like your space, making it easier to distance yourself emotionally.

3. Focus on the Future

Feeling sad about selling a home with personal memories is natural, but focusing on the future is also essential. Think about what lies ahead instead of dwelling on what you're leaving behind. Whether you're moving into a new home, relocating to a different area, or embarking on a new adventure, focusing on the excitement of what comes next can help shift your perspective.

Consider writing a list of what you look forward to after the sale. This exercise can help you focus on your future rather than clinging to the past.

4. Hire a Real Estate Agent

One way to take the emotional weight off your shoulders is to hire a professional real estate agent. Agents are experts in the home-selling process and can objectively guide you through the transaction. They can help you price your home based on market value rather than any personal attachment you may have.

A real estate agent will also handle the negotiations on your behalf, which can be a relief if you're emotionally tied to the outcome. Their experience and knowledge will provide a buffer between you and the stress of the selling process.

5. Consider the Buyer's Perspective 

Finally, it's essential to remind yourself that, to a buyer, your home is simply a property. They won't see it through the same emotional lens that you do. Instead of thinking about the memories you've created, try to see your home from their perspective.

By shifting your focus to the needs and desires of the buyer, you can start to let go of the emotional ties that make it difficult to sell. After all, the goal is to present the house as a desirable asset that will appeal to others.

Selling a home is often a sentimental experience, but emotional attachment can cloud your judgment and hinder the sale process. Following these tips can reduce emotional attachment and allow you to proceed with the sale confidently and through the appropriate lens.

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Victoria’s Summer Real Estate Market Meets Seasonal Expectations

A total of 545 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this August, 0.2 per cent more than the 544 properties sold in August 2023 and a 16.5 per cent decrease from July 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 10.4 per cent from August 2023 with 181 units sold. Sales of single family homes decreased by 7.7 per cent from August 2023 with 252 sold.

“The final month of the summer is generally a rather relaxed one in terms of real estate sales and listings,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “Many folks pause their home shopping activities or pause their sales listing to make the most of other summer activities and vacations. It’s no surprise that sales this year were so close to the sales from 2023 and that listings declined slightly from the number we saw in July.”

There were 3,191 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of August 2024, a decrease of 4.7 per cent compared to the previous month of July and a 28.2 per cent increase from the 2,490 active listings for sale at the end of August 2023.

“It’s likely our market will trend a bit busier in the upcoming fall months,” adds Chair Lidstone. “In September people return their attention to work and school and to bigger projects like making a move. Week by week into the fall our market will evolve so if you are considering listing or buying a home in the Victoria area, connect with your favourite local REALTOR® to help develop your best real estate strategy.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in August 2023 was $1,327,800. The benchmark value for the same home in August 2024 decreased by 3 per cent to $1,287,400, down from July’s value of $1,296,100. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in August 2023 was $575,900 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in August 2024 decreased by 2.9 per cent to $559,200, down from the July value of $567,800.

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Upsizing or Downsizing? Don’t Overdo It!

Imagine you have a growing family, and you want to trade in the small sedan for something larger. So, you visit the dealership and come back with a bus.

Well, that would be upsizing a bit too much – unless you have a really huge family!

That’s the challenge of upsizing or downsizing. You need to be careful not to take it too far and end up with something that isn’t suitable.

This often occurs in the real estate world. For example, homeowners might decide to sell their home and find a smaller one. But, if they go too far, they end up with a property so small they feel claustrophobic.

How do you avoid a similar scenario happening to you?

If you’re thinking of upsizing or downsizing, the best place to start is in your own home. Think about how you use the space. Do you and your family spend a lot of time in certain areas? Are there rooms and other spaces that are rarely used? Or, conversely, do you wish you had more room — such as an extra bedroom, wider driveway, separate living and family rooms, etc.?

Do a thoughtful analysis of how you’re using your current property in order to reveal clues about what you’ll want in your next home. If you’re upsizing, you might find that all you need is an extra  bedroom. If you’re downsizing, you might realize that one family room, rather than separate living and family rooms, would work better for you.

So, whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, carefully decide what type of new home you need. Be as specific as possible. Consider criteria such as the number of bedrooms, entertaining space, bathrooms, driveway size, etc., that you need. Doing that will help ensure your upsizing or downsizing move will be successful.

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5 Easy Ways to Make your Home More Eco-Friendly

These days, people are more environmentally conscious. When it comes to their homes, that often starts with being more thoughtful about heating and cooling so they’re consuming less energy. With that in mind, here are some tips for making your home more eco-friendly:

 1. Install a smart thermostat. Modern thermostats come with various features that help you manage heating and cooling, so you use less energy. For example, you can program a thermostat to adjust temperature during the workday and then turn on heating or cooling an hour before you get home.

 2. Take advantage of non-peak times. Many utilities (electricity, water, etc.) offer price breaks at non-peak periods. For example, washing your clothes later in the evening might reduce your water bill. Ask your utility providers about available price-saving programs.

 3. Buy energy-saving products. A wide range of products are available to help you lower energy consumption, from shower faucets to kitchen ranges. The next time you’re shopping for an appliance or fixture, ensure it has eco-friendly features.

 4. Replace worn insulation. A one-inch crack in window insulation can cause your home’s HVAC system to work harder. That’s why experts advise that you check the insulation around doors and windows once a year and repair or replace it where necessary.

 5. Manage passive heat. It’s no surprise that a window letting in the sun will make a room warmer. So, take advantage of this free energy source. Let sun into rooms on cool days, so your furnace doesn’t have to come on as often. Do the opposite on hot days.

 I’m well-connected in the local home industry. If you need any advice or recommendations, call today!

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Tips on Buying the Right Video Doorbell

Video doorbells have become so popular that it’s not uncommon for visitors to smile as they come up to the door. They want to make a good impression on the video!

These doorbells are definitely convenient. Depending on the model you purchase, you can see who’s there and even speak to that person before opening your door. Some systems even allow for recording.

If you haven’t purchased a video doorbell yet, there are some important things to consider when shopping for one.

First, make sure the resolution is at least 1080p. If it’s less than that, the image quality will be blurry — especially at night.

Video doorbells come in wired or battery versions. Battery versions are easy to install, but you’ll need to keep the battery charged. Wired versions are more secure and reliable. However, the installation is more complex.

It’s recommended that you choose a video doorbell with cloud storage options (including date stamping.) That way, anything that’s recorded will be stored, and you’ll be able to recover it if needed.

Finally, make sure the doorbell works with your mobile phone. That way, you can receive alerts when someone approaches your front door.

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Moving Yourself vs. Hiring Professionals

When you buy a new home and moving day is looming, it can be tempting to consider doing the move yourself. After all, by not hiring a moving company, you’re saving money.

It is true, the DIY approach can lower your moving costs, which is money you can put towards needed fixes and upgrades to your new property.

But, you’re also adding a lot of work! You’ll need to think about boxes, packing, truck rental, gas, lifting and lugging, friends who offer to help but bail last minute, and more.

So, if you’re going to move yourself, plan carefully. Ensure you have all the boxes and packing supplies (tape, bubble wrap, etc.) you need. Most importantly, put together a reliable crew who can stick with you the entire day. In addition to family and friends, it might make sense to hire a worker for the day.

If that all seems like too much work and hassle, then using a moving company is a time-saving option. Yes, you’ll pay more. But you’ll get professional movers, with a truck, who can do much of the lifting and lugging for you. That will take a lot of the stress out of moving day.

And, keep in mind, you don’t need to get the moving company to do it all.

You can cut costs by having them handle the heavier items, such as appliances and furniture, while you DIY-move other things, such as easier-to handle boxes.

Regardless of which option you choose, make your plans well in advance. When it comes to moving day, you’ll be glad you did!

Want more tips on making buying and selling easier? Call today.

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DIY Tips for Making Lawncare Easier


Keeping your lawn, flowerbeds and shrubs looking great enhances the “curb appeal” of your property. However, it can also be a lot of work! Here are some do-it-yourself tips for making these tasks easier and less time-consuming:

-  Add mulch around trees and shrubs. That way, you won’t have to cut grass in those areas, plus you’ll avoid the need to use shears or a trimmer to do the job properly.

-  Adjust lawnmower blades to the optimal height for short, well-groomed grass. That way, you won’t have to mow as often.

-  Use tools that don’t require you to bend over or work on your knees. That will greatly reduce fatigue. (Example: Stand-up grass shears.)

-  Consider applying mulch in flower beds. That will reduce weeds. It will also help retain moisture, so you won’t have to water as often.

-  Avoid high-maintenance plants that require strict watering and tending regiments. No-fuss plants are ideal. (Talk to your local gardening center.)

-  Consider using a soaker hose. It has holes all along the tubing that gently release water. Simply snake the hose through flowerbeds and shrubs or around trees, turn on the water and the hose does the rest.

Want more tips for making your property look great, especially if you’re thinking of selling? Call today.

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MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.