October 26, 2011
Consider Ellicottville, NY for a Great Day Trip
Did you know that a great day trip from NOTL is one that takes you to Ellicottville, NY? A village of 472 people, only an hour south of Buffalo, it offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and recreation. Incorporated in 1837, Ellicottville maintains a striking authenticity. Meander around and everyone says hello, just like in a real village. In winter, ski visitors come for the 58 slopes on 1,400 acres over four mountain faces at Holiday Valley, just south of town. But mostly, they will tell you they come for the ambience of a laid-back town without pretensions. There really is something to do there during all four seasons of the year. For more information, go to http://ellicottvilleny.com
September 26, 2011
Restoration of Older Buildings Grows in Importance
Did you know that restoring older buildings, instead of building new ones, has been growing in importance in the design and development sector? “There is no doubt that reworking existing buildings is highly rewarding and responsible work for architects,” says Rab Bennetts, co-founder of Bennetts Associates, a UK firm known for its strong sustainability ethos. Recycling old buildings is not only a matter of reducing environmental impact, he says, but also an opportunity to “retain memories, discover richer textures and use ‘found’ spaces that require innovative design solutions.” In Niagara, Willowbank is becoming a global voice for the importance of a culturally and environmentally sensitive approach to restoration. Graduates of its School for Restoration Arts are in high demand as the need for qualified project managers and practitioners grows. For more information go to http://www.willowbank.ca
June 3, 2011
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire?
Did you know you might be able to live on as little as 43% of your pre-retirement working income once you retire? Some experts say a couple with 2 children and a household income of $100,000 in their working years could maintain their lifestyle during retirement with as little as $43,000 a year. This would come from pensions, RRSPs, CPP and OAS. Why such a drop? After retirement, large expenses such as mortgage payments, child costs, employment costs, income tax and even retirement saving itself decline or disappear. Still – every person is different and needs a unique plan. It’s a balancing act - save too little and you won’t have enough; save too much and you will be depriving yourself unnecessarily during your earlier years.
March 9, 2011
Fresh Blooms Boost Mood!
Did you know that researchers at Rutgers University have found that flowers in the home can measurably boost your mood? Specific compounds appear to enhance feelings of well-being. Specifically, jasmine and hyacinth blooms have been shown to improve mood and lower anxiety levels. Cinnamon and peppermint also provide an emotional pick-me-up. Try an essential oil diffuser or grab a bunch of fresh flowers, and shake off those winter blues!
December 4, 2010
Kitchen Design Updates
Did you know that the fundamentals of kitchen design have been updated? Overlaying the original “work triangle” between the fridge, stove and food preparation area is a secondary triangle incorporating the garbage, sink and dishwasher. Layouts must also consider access to the microwave and the barbeque. Kitchen design must optimize lighting for each work zone and the overall area. Where the family eats - in the kitchen, in a dining room or an open concept great room – is another consideration. Whether updating a kitchen or building from scratch, one must take into account the breadth of activities that are now based in and around the kitchen.
September 13, 2010
An Income Suite Serves Many Purposes
Did you know that a self-contained living suite on a residential property can serve many purposes – help homeowners become mortgage-free faster, add to general income, provide housing for live-in help, or accommodate family members, whether seniors or students? In some cases an income suite can increase the value and attractiveness of a property for sale. If you are seeking to attract tenants to an income suite, make sure the space is bright and clean with ample storage space, updated appliances and sufficient privacy for them and for you. For more info and ideas, watch Income Property on HGTV, Mondays at 9 p.m.
August 2, 2010
Plan Carefully for Successful Downsizing
Did you know that ‘downsizing’ requires a careful assessment of your needs, before you make the plunge? Many couples sell the large family home and jump right into a small condo, only to back-up later to a mid-point option such as a small bungalow. When downsizing consider the following: How much space do you really need? What office space might each of you require? How much privacy would you like to maintain? How many overnight guests do you expect? How close do you want to be to culture, retail and services? Do you expect to travel and if so would you value a “lock-and-leave” scenario? How can you replace bulky furniture with more streamlined, double-duty items? The list may seem long, but advance planning makes the move simpler and more successful.
June 13, 2010
The 2010 Royal LePage Recreational Property Survey
Almost half of Canadians (47%) considering recreational property will buy to improve their lifestyle, according to a national survey of recreational property ownership conducted by Royal LePage. “Canadians are generally confident about buying recreational properties because they see a pay off in terms of improved quality of life,” said Phil Soper, CEO, Royal LePage. Forty-three per cent of respondents said they would buy a vacation property because it is a good investment – down from 64% in 2009. “Fewer people are looking to acquire recreational property for its investment value, a direct result of rising cottage prices,” Soper said.
May 16, 2010
Gardening in Public Places
Did you know that ‘guerrilla gardening’ is taking root all over the world? Some people use guerrilla gardening (defined as gardening without permission on public land) as a way to conduct a peaceful protest. Steven Wheens creates tiny perfect gardens in potholes to draw attention to the decay of the road system in the U.K. (Go to http://www.thepotholegardener.com) Sometimes activists will plant vegetable gardens on public land as a way to raise awareness about eating from local sources. Some of these groups now work with municipal governments to find land on which to grow food for the community.
March 1, 2010
Latest Better Homes and Gardens Survey of Home Buyers
Did you know that the new Homes and Gardens survey of home buyers revealed increased practicality? Greater energy efficiency has become more important with 87% seeking high efficiency heating/cooling systems and appliances in their next home. Multi-use space is also important, with 59% wanting a home office, but the majority wanting this office to serve multiple uses as an office, computer, hobby and craft room. A well-designed and organized space is important with 66% wanting a “no space wasted’ design and 62% listing ample storage space as very important. Also on the wish list: a separate laundry room (85%); kitchen with eating area (67%) and an extra bedroom with ensuite bath (65%).
September 1, 2009
Stay “Green” This Autumn
Did you know there are many ways to stay “green” in autumn? Here are a few ideas for an eco-friendly fall:
Put your reusable grocery bags right back into the car after you unload them so they are ready for next time.
Avoid using filmy plastic bags for produce.
When you buy your “back-to-school” shoes, ask the retailer to keep and recycle the box.
Take your own reusable coffee cup when you go out, and pack kids’ lunches in reusable containers.
Install a chalkboard in your kitchen to reduce the use of paper notepads for lists and reminders.
Visit thrift shops for great finds on retro kitchenware, furniture etc. Who needs new stuff when all of it already exists out there somewhere?
September 1, 2009
Your Pets Are Smarter Than You Think!
Did you know that dogs have similar intelligence to a 24- to 30-month old child, while cats are considered to have the intelligence of an 18-month-old? According to psychologist and dog researcher Stanley Coren, the average dog has a vocabulary of about 165 words. Tests suggest that dogs also have some basic emotions — fear, anger, disgust and pleasure — but are missing some of the more complex emotions such as guilt. Coren suggests smarter dogs can count reliably to five and can spot errors in rudimentary arithmetic. They can also learn basic abstract geometric concepts such as big and small.
