There are many things to consider when looking for the right home; one of those considerations should be sustainability.  A sustainable home is not only better for the environment, but it can also save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

Here are five features that offer sustainable options, which will help you conserve resources and save costs on heat, water and electricity.

Windows

Windows are incredibly important when it comes to energy efficiency. The quality of windows installed in a house greatly impact heat conservation. New double or triple pane, argon-filled windows provide extra insulation and better noise reduction for your home.
Properly insulated windows are a must for keeping heat from escaping during the cold winter months. However, the orientation of the windows to the sun should also be considered, as south-facing windows allow radiant heat from sunlight to enter the home each day.

Heating

Tied for second place along with water-saving features, a home’s heat source and heat conservation are also very important. A high-efficiency furnace, automated climate control, high value insulation, and heat recovery ventilation are must-haves among others.
South-facing windows, geothermal systems, and active solar energy systems are great sustainable features for heating a home. A geothermal system utilizes the stable ground temperature to regulate a home’s temperature, whereas an active solar energy system gathers heat from the sun.

Water

It is very important to conserve our freshwater supply. Sustainable homes utilize features that minimize water usage. Features like low-flow toilets, sinks, and showerheads, automated sprinklers, rain collectors, and xeriscaping go a long way in water conservation.

Solar

You can utilize the sun’s rays to help increase sustainability. Solar panels, solar water heating, and orientation to the sun for natural heating are all ways we can effectively utilize solar energy.

Electricity

It can be difficult at times to keep up with advancements in technology. Try looking for LED lighting and programmable energy-efficient appliances in a sustainable home.  If the home is equipped with a solar panel array, ask for a comparison of the home’s electric generation and consumption.  Is there a charging outlet in the garage for a potential future electric car?

A community helps you feel at home, but it can be difficult to bring together neighbours in buildings and condominiums. Here are some suggestions to help you start building connections in your vertical neighbourhood.

Below are some ways you can get engaged with your condo community.

Be active in your building’s online community

Facebook and other social media networks make it very easy to set up virtual communities where you can stay on top of current events, renovations, or other things happening in your building. If your condo already has Facebook group, consider joining it. If not, you may want to management about setting one up.

Organize group events with your neighbours – Want to get to know the people on your floor a bit better? A dinner party, board game night or televised sporting event may be a great opportunity to get to know your neighbours.

Set up a barter or a swap system – Each tenant within a condo building has a unique and valuable set of skills. It may make sense to set up a barter or swap system, so you can help others with the things that you are strong at, and receive help doing the things you find difficult.

Be a respectful neighbour – The Golden Rule—treat others how you would like to be treated—applies to condo life as well. Do what you can to be a respectful neighbour. For example, if you’re planning on having a few friends over and you think noise may exceed typical levels, give your neighbours a heads up.

Whether the seasons are changing and it’s time to pull out the boots, put away the flip flops, or grab some gift wrap—there are some quick & easy organization hacks you can take advantage of to make more use of your space and become more efficient in your home.

Click here for some great ideas!

Typically, it’s easy to make your house look attractive when flowers are blooming, the sun is shining or the leaves are changing colour.
But how do you make your property look great at the end of winter?

1. Shovel the Snow

A driveway with a thick layer of snow is much less inviting than a clear pathway leading to the front door of a home. Sweeping leaves and shovelling snow is incredibly important to make your home look its best in the colder months.
It’s a good idea to sprinkle salt or sand on the cleared areas to prevent guests from slipping. Also, remove any icicles that are hanging dangerously above walkways.

2. Bright Lighting

Bright lighting, both inside and outside a home, can create a warm, welcoming feeling. Well-lit homes will also look great in photos that market the property, especially if those photos are taken at night.

3. Landscaping

Trim the bushes, trees and shrubs so the windows and doors are visible outside. This will also allow more light in to brighten up the home when inside.

4 – Other Ideas

• Reroute standing water
• Hide outdoor toys
• Make the home smell fresh with candles
• Have summer images available so potential buyers can see what the home looks like then

Deciding to start a family is an exciting time — and so is searching for a new family home. Baby proofing has come a long way, but to make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of kid-friendly features to look for when you’re shopping the real estate market.

For more family-friendly home essentials, continue reading ​here​​​.