Creating a pet-friendly home involves considering the comfort, safety, and well-being of your furry friends. Here are some features to consider:

Durable Flooring: Choose scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean flooring like hardwood, laminate, or more durable tile options. Avoid carpets if possible, or choose pet-friendly carpeting that’s stain-resistant.
Pet-Friendly Fabrics: Choose furniture and upholstery made from pet-friendly fabrics like leather or microfiber that are durable and easy to clean. This helps in case of accidents or shedding.
Pet-Safe Plants: Select indoor plants that are non-toxic to pets, such as spider plants, Boston ferns, or palms. Keep toxic plants out of reach or opt for artificial plants.
Designated Pet Areas: Create designated spaces for your pets, such as a cozy corner with a bed or a built-in nook under the stairs. This gives them a sense of security and their own space.
Easy Access to Outdoors: Install a pet door or create a pet-friendly exit to the yard, allowing your pets to go outside and play freely.
Secure Fencing: Ensure your yard has a secure fence to prevent your pets from wandering off and to keep them safe from potential dangers.
Built-in Feeding Stations: Incorporate built-in feeding stations or cabinets to store pet food and supplies, keeping them organized and out of reach from curious pets.
Wash Station or Mudroom: Include a designated area near the entrance for cleaning muddy paws or bathing your pets, with easy-to-clean surfaces and storage for grooming supplies.
Integrated Pet Technology: Consider installing smart pet feeders, water fountains, or cameras to monitor your pets remotely and ensure they are comfortable and well-fed when you’re away.
By incorporating these features into your home design, you can create a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for both you and your pets.
If you are looking to get into the housing market as a buyer or seller, or simply have questions so you can best prepare yourself for a future move, don’t hesitate to reach out to me today Lalit Wasdev, Email: lalitwasdev@dominionlending.ca, Cell: 604 358 0106, Mortgage Broker, DLC – First pacific Mortgage A Better Way, Vancouver.

As Published by DLC Marketing Team.

In the last decade, climate change and energy efficiency have become top of mind for many Canadians. From wanting to do our part by recycling to making our home as energy efficient as possible, there are so many benefits to being environmentally and energy conscious.

If you are looking to cut costs or simply want to reduce your eco-footprint, here are some great ways to cut your energy costs:

Get a Smart Thermostat: A pretty easy installation, a smart thermostat can help you better manage your in-home temperature. Whether you opt to install a basic programmable thermostat or try Google’s Nest, which learns from you and works to predict which temperatures you prefer and when, getting a read on your in-home temperature can help you better manage your energy usage.
Look for Drafty Spots: When it comes to heating your home, it can quickly become a wasted effort and results in extra costs if you have drafts in your home. In addition to windows and doors, you should also seal any folding attic stairs, add a fireplace plug to seal the damper and install a dryer vent seal to reduce drafts in your laundry room.
Swap to LEDs: Most of us are already using LED bulbs throughout our home. If you aren’t yet, now is the time to make the switch! LED bulbs use 15% less energy than an equivalent incandescent, which can save you a ton of money each month especially in larger homes.
Turn Down Your Water Heater: While sometimes nothing beats a good scalding shower, you don’t want to be burned with a high energy bill. Did you know if you knock down that temperature gauge by just 10 degrees, you can save 3% to 5% on your bills each month!?
Examine Your Appliances: Since 1992, ENERGY STAR® has been backing energy efficient appliances and products, helping consumers make the right choices. Some of the least green appliances in your home are your dishwasher, washing machine, dryer and refrigerator and, if you don’t currently have Energy Star certified versions of these machines, swapping to them is a sure fire way to reduce your monthly expenses.
Can’t afford new appliances? Here are some other tips and tricks to help make them more efficient in the meantime:

Dishwasher: Use a citric acid-based cleaner in an empty cycle to rid your dishwasher of excess soap and calcium buildup that may be causing your machine to work harder.

Washing Machine: Maximize energy by stuffing your machine to the brim whenever possible as washing machines typically use the same amount of energy regardless of load size.

Dryer: For starters, ensure you are always cleaning out your lint filter to increase air circulation. In addition, keep an eye on the outside exhaust and clean when needed to reduce drying time and save energy.
Refrigerator: While most of us are more concerned with the food inside our fridges than the parts, it is important to check your condenser coils. Over time, dirt, food particles and dust can collect and reduce the efficiency. Another tip is to set your refrigerator to 2-3 degrees Celsius.
Close The Blinds: When the temperature starts heating up, it is important to close the blinds and drapes to prevent the sun from beating in and warming up your home. The excessive heat makes your air conditioner work overtime causing your energy bills to skyrocket.
In addition to the cost savings and environmental benefits of improving your energy efficiency, CMHC also has a rebate available! The CMHC Eco Plus refund can provide a 25% partial premium refund if you’re CMHC insured and buying or building an energy-efficient home! Click here for more details.

If you are looking to get into the housing market as a buyer or seller, or simply have questions so you can best prepare yourself for a future move, don’t hesitate to reach out to me today Lalit Wasdev, Email: lalitwasdev@dominionlending.ca, Cell: 604 358 0106, Mortgage Broker, DLC – First pacific Mortgage A Better Way, Vancouver.

As Published by DLC Marketing Team

Even in a sellers’ market, there are some ways you can improve your chances of increasing the number of offers and selling your home for the best value.

Check out these expert tips for staging your home to help make the best first impression possible:

Clean and Declutter: Clean, clean, and clean some more! While you might not be able to stage each room in your home, it is vital to ensure that each space is cleaned and decluttered. Especially ensure that counters, carpets, flooring, and appliances are spotless! This not only signals pride of ownership, but it helps display the potential of the spaces to buyers.

Depersonalize: While you’re working through and cleaning your spaces, make sure to depersonalize along the way. Ideally, any family photos, kids’ drawings, etc, should be removed or replaced with more general photography to better appeal to potential buyers.
Focus on Key Spaces: The primary areas in your home are your living room, kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom. If you are not able to get to each room, these are the ones you should focus on to ensure your home is represented as best as possible.
Consider a Fresh Coat: Did you know? According to a RE/MAX Canada Renovation Investment Report, 36% of buyers prefer a fresh coat of paint! This can go a long way to making your home look new and revitalized.
Boost Curb Appeal: While you’re staging your home, don’t forget about curb appeal! The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior – if not MORE important for first impressions. A good place to start would be renting a power washer to scrub down your driveway and exterior walls.

If you are looking to get into the housing market as a buyer or seller, or simply have questions so you can best prepare yourself for a future move, don’t hesitate to reach out to me today Lalit Wasdev, Email: lalitwasdev@dominionlending.ca, Cell: 604 358 0106, Mortgage Broker, DLC – First pacific Mortgage A Better Way, Vancouver.

As Published by DLC Marketing Team

Whether you’re looking to sell your home this year, or just want to make some updates, I have put together six small home improvements that can make a BIG impact on your space! From improving saleability to refreshing your home, here are some simple and affordable ideas to help get you started:

Painting: One of the easiest ways to spruce up your home for a refreshed vibe or sale is to add a new coat of paint! While it is a relatively simple task for a new homeowner to take on, you might be surprised at how many people will pass on a house because they are not a fan of the paint colors or the flooring. A fresh coat of paint – especially more neutral colors such as beige, cream, light grays, and soft blues or greens – can do wonders to make a home feel appealing.
Light Fixtures: I don’t know about you, but I haven’t taken a good look at my light fixtures in a while. However, potential buyers will! Light fixtures are another low-cost and relatively easy improvement you can make to your home. Upgrading to newer styles and ensuring they are clean, with fresh LED bulbs, will help add an extra sparkle to your home!
Update Your Hardware: Another overlooked aspect of a home are light switches and door handles. If your home is 20 years old, most likely your white light switch covers are not so “white” and your door handles are a little worn down. These are a cheap and easy replacement that will go a long way to boost your interior!
Swap Out Your Window Coverings: Just like with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware, swapping out your window coverings is a small change that can make a big impact. Change your stale, white plastic blinds for wooden slats, or update your curtains to something fresh and vibrant!
Refinish Your Cabinets: The kitchen is known to be a central space in most homes, but did you know roughly 80% of homebuyers feel that it is the most important space to consider when deciding on a new home? While a full kitchen renovation may be out of the question and all-new kitchen cabinets can cost thousands, there is a third option. Refinishing or repainting your cabinets is a great alternative for breathing new life into your kitchen!
Curb Appeal: They say don’t judge a book by its cover but, when it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. This is where curb appeal comes in! If a potential buyer pulls up to see overgrown weeds, clogged gutters, or cracked concrete, they are already going to have a negative impression of the home and it will be harder to impress them once they are inside. Attending to landscaping and any outside maintenance needs will go a long way in making your home more appealing. A pressure wash and a new coat of exterior paint can also do wonders to give your home a facelift!
By putting the effort into completing a few small changes around your home, you can reap big rewards when it comes time to sell – and increase your comfort in the interim!
For any home financing related questions please connect with Mortgage Broker Lalit Wasdev at Cell 604 358 0106 email
lalitwasdev@dominionlending.ca.

As Published by DLC Marketing Team.

As we gear up for the approaching summer season, why not revitalize your outdoor area to bask in the warmth and embrace the sunshine? There’s a plethora of fantastic outdoor projects awaiting, whether it’s in your backyard or on your balcony, to elevate your space and maximize your enjoyment of the season.

Let’s explore some fresh ideas:

Introduce an Outdoor Rug: A simple yet effective trick! An outdoor rug effortlessly injects vibrancy into your space without the hassle of extensive renovations. It’s an economical choice that can remarkably enhance the ambiance.
Embrace a Fountain: Whether grandiose or petite, fountains add an enchanting touch to any outdoor setting. Beyond aesthetics, the gentle sound of flowing water promotes serenity, enhancing your relaxation experience.
Illuminate with String Lights: Transform your space with the whimsical allure of fairy lights. These versatile adornments, available in various designs and hues, are a budget-friendly way to infuse charm and create a captivating atmosphere.
Craft a Vertical Garden: Maximizing space is key, even in compact areas. Consider a vertical garden, featuring low-maintenance plants like succulents. With a bit of creativity, repurposed materials can yield stunning results, elevating your greenery game.
Adorn with a Trellis: Elevate your outdoor aesthetic with a trellis, adding architectural interest and serving as a focal point for your garden or seating enclave. It’s a simple yet impactful addition that can redefine your outdoor space.
Design a Garden Path: Establishing pathways enhances both functionality and aesthetics. Opt for materials like stone or gravel for easy upkeep, adding structure and a sense of seclusion to your outdoor retreat.
Furnish with Comfort in Mind: Transform your patio into a cozy haven with thoughtfully selected furniture pieces. From loungers to dining sets, each addition contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. Consider DIY options using wooden pallets for a personalized touch, accentuated with vibrant cushions for a pop of color.
Remember, regardless of the size or layout of your outdoor space, infusing it with your unique style can significantly elevate your enjoyment. Seize the opportunity to curate your personal oasis and savor the season to the fullest!
For any further details please connect with Mortgage Broker Lalit Wasdev Cell 604 358 0106 Email lalit.wasdev@dominionlending.ca

Aa published by DLC Marketing Team