You've tried your hand at billion new recipes or ordered from just about every takeout place around the block. You've redecorated your place and actually enjoy being home and have mastered a couple of the skills that were always stuck at the bottom of the to-do list. You've marathoned every show, movie, and documentary on Netflix and convinced yourself that getting out of bed is enough exercise since summer won't be coming around this year. Or will it?

Thanks the the guidance of our health officials and service workers, as well as the precautionary measures taken all around, BC recently rolled out Phase 2 of its Restart Plan. With record temperature highs coming around this weekend in Vancouver, a lot of us are likely questioning what is and isn't safe for the time being.

Tips for beyond your home:

RESTAURANTS/SERVICES - The food and beverage industry is quickly starting up with strict guidelines in place and new setups. Most places will have limited seating and may even require mandatory reservations with restricted hours, so check well in advance to avoid an unfruitful trip across town. For contact tracing purposes, many facilities are required to record your personal information, such as name or phone number, so be sure you're comfortable with the practice before accessing their services. Service workers are still very much at risk, so consider taking precautionary measures such as using protective equipment and avoiding close contact beyond gear that they have on premise.

BEACHES/HIKING TRAILS/OPEN SPACES - Park and hiking facilities have opened up to the general public once again, but parking restrictions are still in place at certain locations. Check on the status when planning for a trip, and while it may be tempting to crowd into open spaces as the weather warms up, ensure that you are staying the advised two metres away from other groups and keeping your own group to a reasonable size of two to six people. Campgrounds and parks are opening up for reservations, but try to stay as close to home as possible to limit any possibility of transmission.

HOSTING AT HOME: - It's the time of year for home gatherings, barbeques, and house parties, which you should aim to limit to close friends and family who are not showing signs of sickness. Clean out and sterilize your place before and after having groups over, as well as suggest the use of frequent handwashing, sanitization, and limit physical contact.

FESTIVALS/CELEBRATIONS/LARGE GATHERINGS: - Plans and schedules for large gatherings are yet on hold until rates of transmission and infection stabilize. While this may be a disappointment for many of us who had expectations for travelling, concerts, and graduation celebrations, make the most of this time by connecting with specific individuals and close groups who you might've been too busy to catch up with, or check in with a long-distance friend who you haven't spoken with in a while. Community goes beyond any physical borders, and it's all the more important in these trying times.

It appears summer won't be abandonning us altogether this year, but be careful to take care of yourselves and the people around you as it begins to roll in!

Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many of us are spending a lot more time at home. We’re all being called upon to avoid public spaces and practice social distancing to help slow the spread of this infectious disease. While it can be understandably challenging, there are ways you can modify your home and your lifestyle to make the best of this difficult situation.

Here are a few tips for creating comfortable and functional spaces within your home for work, school, and fitness. We also share some of our favorite ways to stay connected as a community, because we’re all in this together … and no one should face these trying times alone.

Begin with the Basics

A basic home emergency preparedness kit is a great addition to any home, even under normal circumstances. It should include items like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, first aid kit, and other essentials you would need should you temporarily lose access to food, water, or electricity.

Fortunately, authorities don’t anticipate any serious interruptions to utilities or the food supply during this outbreak. However, it may be a good time to start gathering your emergency basics in a designated location, so you’ll be prepared now-—and in the future—should your family ever need them. 

Working From Home

Many employees are being asked to work remotely. If you’re transitioning to a home office for the first time, it’s important to create a designated space for work … so it doesn’t creep into your home life, and vice versa. If you live in a small condominium or apartment, this may feel impossible. But try to find a quiet corner where you can set up a desk and comfortable chair. The simple act of separating your home and workspaces can help you focus during work hours and “turn off” at the end of the day. 

Of course, if you have children who are home with you all day (given many schools and daycares are now closed), separating your home and work life will be more difficult. Unless you have a partner who can serve as the primary caregiver, you will need to help manage the needs of your children while juggling work and virtual meetings.

If both parents are working from home, try alternating shifts, so you each have a designated time to work and to parent. If that’s not an option, experts recommend creating a schedule for your children, so they know when you’re available to play, and when you need to work.¹ A red stop sign on the door can help remind them when you shouldn’t be disturbed. And for young children, blocking off a specific time each day for them to nap or have independent screen time can give you a window to schedule conference calls or work uninterrupted.

Homeschooling Your Children

Many parents with school-aged children will be taking on a new challenge: homeschooling. Similar to a home office, designating a space for learning activities can help your child transition between play and school. If you’re working from home, the homeschooling area would ideally be located near your workspace, so you can offer assistance and answer questions, as needed.

If possible, dedicate a desk or table where your child’s work can be spread out—and left out when they break for meals and snacks. Position supplies and materials nearby so they are independently accessible, and place a trash can and recycling bin within reach for easy cleanup. A washable, plastic tablecloth can help transition an academic space into an arts and crafts area.

 If the weather is nice, try studying outside! A porch swing is a perfect spot for reading, and gardening in the backyard is a great addition to any science curriculum. 

In addition to creating an academic learning environment, find age-appropriate opportunities for your children to help with household chores and meal preparation. Homeschooling advocates emphasize the importance of developing life skills alongside academic ones.² And with more meals and activities taking place at home, there will be ample opportunity for every family member to pitch in and help.

Staying Fit

With gyms closed and team sports canceled, it can be tempting to sit on the sofa and binge Netflix. However, maintaining the physical health and mental wellness of you and your family is crucial right now. Implementing a regular exercise routine at home can help with both.

If you live in a community where you can safely exercise outdoors while maintaining the recommended distance between you and other residents, try to get out as much as possible. If the weather is nice, go for family walks, jogs, or bike rides. 

Can’t get outside? Fortunately, you don’t need a home gym or fancy exercise equipment to stay fit. Look for a suitable space in your home, garage, or basement where you can comfortably move—you’ll probably need at least a 6’ x 6’ area for each person. Many cardio and strength training exercises require little (or no) equipment, including jumping jacks, lunges, and pushups. 

And if you prefer a guided workout, search for free exercise videos on YouTube—there are even options specifically geared towards kids—or try one of the many fitness apps available.

Socializing From a Distance

Even though we’re all being called upon to practice “social distancing” right now, there are still ways to stay safely connected to our communities and our extended families. Picking up the phone is a great place to start. Make an effort to reach out to neighbors and loved ones who live alone and may be feeling particularly isolated right now.

And while parties and playdates may be prohibited, modern technology offers countless ways to organize networked gatherings with family and friends. Try using group video conferencing tools like Google Hangouts and Zoom to facilitate a virtual happy hour or book club. Host a Netflix Party to watch (and chat about) movies with friends. Or plan a virtual game night and challenge your pals to a round of Psych or Yahtzee.

There are safe ways to connect offline, too. Rediscover the lost art of letter writing. Drop off groceries on an elderly neighbor’s porch. Or organize a neighborhood “chalk walk,” where children use sidewalk chalk to decorate their driveways and then head out for a stroll to view their friends’ artwork.

Of course, there’s one group of people who you can still socialize with freely—those who reside in your home. Family dinners are back, siblings are reconnecting, and many of us have been given the gift of time, with commutes, activities, and obligations eliminated. In fact, some families are finding that this crisis has brought them closer than ever. 

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Even with all of the tools and technology available to keep us connected, many of us are still feeling stressed, scared, and isolated. However, you can rest assured that you are not alone. We’re not only here to help you buy and sell real estate. We want to be a resource to our clients and community through good times and bad. If you and your family are in need of assistance, please reach out and let us know how we can help.

Sources:

1. CNBC -
   https://www.cnbc.com/2020/03/16/how-to-work-from-home-with-your-kids-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak.html
2. TheHomeSchoolMom.com -
   https://www.thehomeschoolmom.com/benefits-of-homeschooling-2/

Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a full-scale renovation, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in home design. Sellers who make tasteful updates can generate increased buyer interest and, in some cases, a premium selling price. And buyers should consider which features of a home will need updating immediately (or in the near future) so they can factor renovation costs into their overall budget.

Even if you have no immediate plans to buy or sell, we advise our clients to be thoughtful about the colors, materials, and finishes they select when planning a remodel, or even redecorating. Choosing over-personalized or unpopular options could hurt a home’s value when it does come time to list your property. And selecting out-of-style or overly-trendy elements could cause your home to feel dated quickly.

To help, we’ve rounded up five of the hottest home design trends for 2020. Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to buy, list, or renovate your property, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.

1) IN: Sustainability / OUT: Fast Furniture

Consumers have become increasingly eco-conscious. Many are shunning the mass-produced, “fast furniture” popularized by retailers like IKEA, opting instead for higher-quality pieces that are built to last. And the availability of non-toxic, environmentally-friendly furniture and decor options are set to grow in 2020 and beyond.

At the same time, there’s been a noticeable shift toward individuality in today’s interior design. Instead of following the latest fad, more homeowners are opting to embrace their personal style and invest in items they believe will “spark joy” (à la Marie Kondo) for years to come.

To incorporate this trend, designers recommend layering old and new pieces for a curated look that you can build over time. Instead of purchasing an item of matching furniture set from a big-box retailer, buy one or two sustainably-sourced pieces that complement what you already own. Try searching for estate sales and Craigslist for vintage classics or well-built furniture that can be refinished. And to accessorize your room, mix sentimental items with newer finds to create a truly personalized space.

2) IN: Cozy / OUT: Cold

Designers are moving away from cool grays, industrial finishes, and stark modernism. In 2020, there’s a big emphasis on creating warm and cozy spaces through color, texture, and shape. 

Gray has dominated the color palette for the past decade. This year, expect to see a move toward warmer neutrals, earth tones, and nature-inspired shades of blue and green. Warm metals, like gold and brass, will also continue to trend. And hardwood floors are heating up, as cool gray and whitewashed finishes fade in popularity. Expect to see a rise in classic choices like walnut, mahogany, and oak in richer and darker tones.

Furniture will also get cozier—and curvier—in 2020. From rounded sofas and curved-back chairs to oval dining tables, softened-angles are dominating the furniture scene right now. And designers expect softly-textured fabrics—like velvet, shearling, and mohair—to be big this year, as homeowners strive to add a touch of “hygge” (the Danish concept of calming comfort).

Want to warm up your home decor? Try one of the top paint colors for 2020: Benjamin Moore’s First Light (soft pink), Sherwin Williams’s Naval (rich blue), or Behr’s Back to Nature (light green).

3) IN: Bold / OUT: Boring

Bold is back! After years of neutral overload, vivid colors and prints will take center stage in 2020. Expect to see geometric designs, color blocking, and floral and botanical patterns on everything from pillows to rugs to wallpaper.

The hottest trend in interior paint right now is bold trim and ceilings. Monochromatic rooms (e.g., walls, ceilings, and millwork painted the same color) will be big this year, as well as high-contrast pairings, like white walls with black trim. Color is coming back to kitchens, too, and two-toned color schemes continue to gain steam. In 2019, 40% of remodelers chose a contrasting color for their kitchen island.¹ While white was still the top choice for cabinets, blue and gray are increasingly popular alternatives.

If you’re ready to “go bold,” separated spaces like laundry and powder rooms are great places to start. It’s easier to incorporate busy wallpaper or bright wall color in an enclosed area because it doesn’t have to flow with the rest of your decor. 

Of course, clients always want to know how design choices could impact their home’s value. The reality is, neutral finishes are still the safest bet for resale. If you’re prepping your home to go on the market, stick with non-permanent fixtures—like artwork and accessories—to brighten your space.

4) IN: Nature / OUT: Industrial

Biophilic design has been big in the past few seasons, and it isn’t going anywhere in 2020. It centers around the health and wellness benefits of connecting with nature, even while indoors, and it’s impacted the latest trends in color, prints, and materials. 

As we mentioned previously, floral and botanical patterns are hot right now, along with nature-inspired hues, like blues, greens, and earth tones. We’re also seeing a heightened use of organic shapes and sustainable materials in furniture and furnishings, including wood, wicker, rattan, and jute. This infusion of nature coincides with a decline in the popularity of urban-industrial fixtures. Designers predict that concrete floors and Edison light bulbs are on the way out.

Want to bring in elements of biophilic design on a budget? Houseplants are a great place to start. But you can also enhance your home’s natural light and create a visual sightline to the outdoors by removing heavy curtains and blinds. And when the weather is nice, open your windows and enjoy the breeze, sounds, and smells of nature. These simple acts are scientifically proven to help reduce stress, boost cognitive performance, and enhance mood!²

5) IN: Functional / OUT: Fussy

In 2020, homeowners want a design that’s beautiful, but also liveable. With the rise in remote workplaces, online shopping, and virtual exercise classes, many of us are spending more time at home than ever before. Cue the growing appeal of multi-functional spaces, like a combination kitchen/office or gym/playroom. Real-life—and rising housing prices—necessitates the creative use of limited space.

Durable, low-maintenance materials will also surge in popularity this year. Engineered quartz—which is more stain, heat, and chip-resistant than natural stone—is now the #1 choice for kitchen countertops.¹ Waterproof, wood-look luxury vinyl is the fastest-growing segment in the flooring industry.³ And improvements to water and stain-resistant performance fabric has made it a mainstream option for both indoor and outdoor upholstery. 

Now that functional is hot, what’s not? Designers say that mirrored furniture, open shelving, and all-white kitchens are too impractical for today’s busy families.

So how can you start enjoying the time and energy-saving benefits of this design trend? Begin by structuring each room so that it best suits your needs. And when purchasing furniture or fixtures, choose options that are durable and easy-to-clean. The truth is, design fads come and go. But a comfortable and relaxed home (that you don’t spend every spare minute maintaining!) can help create memories to last a lifetime.

DESIGNED TO SELL 

Are you contemplating a remodel? Want to find out how upgrades could impact the value of your home? Buyer preferences vary greatly by neighborhood and price range. We can share our insights and offer tips on how to maximize the return on your investment. And if you’re in the market to sell, we can run a Comparative Market Analysis on your home to find out how it compares to others in the area. Contact us to schedule a free consultation!

Sources:

1. Houzz -
   https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2020-us-houzz-kitchen-trends-study-stsetivw-vs~129594531
2. Terrapin Bright Green - https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/reports/14-patterns/
3. Remodeling Magazine -
   https://www.remodeling.hw.net/products/vinyl-ceramic-and-hardwood-oh-my-todays-popular-flooring-trends_o
4. Elle Decor -
   https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g29859422/design-trends-2020/?slide=1
5. Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/sites/amandalauren/2019/12/23/twelve-interior-design-trends-well-see-in-2020/#43f81f044a5f
6. Wall Street Journal -
   https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-top-6-interior-design-trends-for-2020-11577460357
7. Good Housekeeping -
   https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/g29849170/home-decor-trends-2020/
8. Architectural Digest -
   https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/top-design-trends-of-2020
9. Los Angeles Times - 
   https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2020-01-11/2020-home-design-trends

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, shopping for a new home can feel daunting. In fact, 56% of buyers said that “finding the right property” was the most difficult step in the home buying process.¹

Buying a home is a significant commitment of both time and money. And a home purchase has the power to improve both your current quality of life and your future financial security, so the stakes are high.

Follow these five steps—and complete the corresponding worksheet offered below—to assess your priorities, streamline your search, and choose your next home with confidence.

STEP 1: Set Your Goals and Priorities 

The first step to finding your ideal home is determining WHY you want to move. Do you need more space? Access to better schools? Less maintenance? Or are you tired of throwing money away on rent when you could be building equity? Pinpointing the reasons why you want to move can help you assess your priorities for your home search. 

Don’t forget to think about how your circumstances might change over the next few years. Do you expect to switch jobs? Have more children? Get a pet? A good rule of thumb is to choose a house that will meet your family’s needs for at least the next five to seven years.² Be sure to set your goals accordingly.

STEP 2: Determine Your Budget 

Many financial professionals recommend following the “28/36 Rule” to determine how much you can afford to spend on a home. The rule states that you should spend no more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing expenses (e.g., mortgage, taxes, insurance) and a maximum of 36% of your gross monthly income on your total debt obligations (i.e., housing expenses PLUS any other debt obligations, like car loans, student loans, credit card debt, etc.).³

Of course, the 28/36 rule only provides a rough guideline. Getting pre-qualified or pre-approved for a mortgage BEFORE you begin shopping for homes will give you a much more accurate idea of how much you can borrow. Add your pre-approved mortgage amount to your downpayment to find out your maximum purchasing potential.

STEP 3: Choose a Location 

When it comes to real estate, WHERE you choose to buy is just as important as WHAT you choose to buy.

Do you prefer a rural, urban, or suburban setting? How long of a commute are you willing to make? Which neighborhoods feed into your favorite schools? These decisions will impact your day-to-day life while you live in the home.

Another important factor to consider is how the area is likely to appreciate over time. Choosing the right neighborhood can raise the profit potential of your home when it comes time to sell. Look for communities that are well maintained with high home-ownership rates, low crime rates, and access to good schools, desired retail establishments, and top employers.⁴

STEP 4: Decide Which Features You Need (and Want) in a Home

Start with the basics, like your ideal number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage. Do you prefer a one-story or two-story layout? Do you want a swimming pool?

Keep in mind, you may not find a home with all of your “wants,” or even all of your “needs” … at least not at a price you can afford. The reality is, most of us have to make a few compromises when it comes to buying a home.

Some buyers will opt for a longer commute to get a larger, newer home in the suburbs. Others will sacrifice hardwood floors or an updated kitchen so that their kids can attend their desired school. 

If you’re faced with a tough choice about how or what to compromise in your home search, return to STEP 1. What were your original goals and motivations for moving? Reminding yourself of your true priorities can often provide the clarity that you need.

STEP 5: Meet with a Real Estate Agent 

A good real estate agent can remove much of the stress and uncertainty from the home search process. From setting goals to securing a loan to selecting the best neighborhood to meet your needs, we will be there to assist you every step of the way.

And no one has more access to home listings, past sales data, or market statistics than a professional agent. We can set up a customized search that alerts you as soon as a new listing you might like goes live. Better yet, we get notified about many of the hottest homes even BEFORE they hit the market.

You might guess that the VIP service we provide is very expensive. Well, the good news is, we can represent you throughout the entire home buying process at NO COST to you. It’s true; the home seller pays a buyer agent’s fee at closing. So you can benefit from our time, experience, and expertise without paying a dime. It’s no wonder 87% of buyers choose to purchase their home with the help of an agent.¹

And although we’ve listed it here as STEP 5, the reality is, it’s never too early (or too late) to contact an agent about buying a home. Whether you plan to buy today, next month, or next year, there are steps you can (and should) be taking to prepare for your purchase.

Call us today to schedule a free consultation!

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

1. NAR 2019 Home Buyers & Sellers Generational Trends Report -
   https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2019-home-buyers-and-sellers-generational-trends-report-08-16-2019.pdf
2. Architectural Digest -
   https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/this-is-how-long-you-should-live-in-your-house-before-selling-it
3. Investopedia -
   https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/twenty-eight-thirty-six-rule.asp
4. Money Talks News -
   https://www.moneytalksnews.com/20-clues-youre-buying-home-the-right-neighborhood/

‘What should I make for dinner?’ is o question many of us ask ourselves every day but often don’t have the answer to until it’s too late and we end up with takeout. Here are some of easy, quick and healthy meals that I’ve been loving. There’s so much variety and are often simple ingredients that you already have in your kitchen and meets all food groups.

Ground Turkey Recipes

Turkey is one of my go-to meat preferences. It is true that ground turkey can be dry. Although, when adding the right ingredients, sauces, and seasonings it can make turkey a delicious addition to any dish. Here are some of my favourite ground turkey recipes that you need to try out:

Thai Meatballs

Zucchini-Turkey Burgers

Healthy Stir Fry and Curry

What’s easier than cutting up your favourite veggies, dding a yummy sauce and mixing it in with your favourite rice or pasta options? What makes these recipes healthy is that they are all made from scratch with ingredients that don’t contain any preservatives or complicated ingredients. Another great thing about stir fries and curries is that you can adjust it to load it with various combinations of your favourite veggies and proteins.

Peanut Chicken Noodles

Cauliflower Fried Rice

Let me know if you tried out these recipes! Stay safe and healthy everyone!

Source: iFoodreal

A local favourite, Cactus Club Cafe is offering happy hour specials from open until 4 pm, starting at $6. You and your friends can have a virtual happy hour with DoorDash delivery of your favourite dishes and drinks from Cactus Club. They’ve added $5 drink specials, $20 six-packs and half-price bottle of wine that can be ordered along with your meals.

Social distancing and self-isolation doesn’t mean happy hour has to stop!

Self-isolation and social distancing has become the new norm as we do our part to stay safe, healthy and to stop the spread of COVID-19. People everywhere are staying indoors and as much as many of us are appreciating rest and relaxation, it’s bound to happen that people become bored.

Many of us are able to work from home but once we’re done working for the day we often end up binge-watching another Netflix series. 

Here are some mini home projects that will make your space feel brand new:

Source: The Spruce

Paint your kitchen cabinets

 According to the co-founder of Lawson-Fenning, the furniture, and home goods brand designer, Glenn Lawson states one way to brighten and give your kitchen a new feel while on a budget is by painting your cabinets. One of the interior design colours trending this year is muted green or calming blue, maybe it’s time to shake up the kitchen with these soothing and unique colours.

Source: Idecoration

Get your gallery wall up!

I know many of you have saved Instagram and Pinterest posts of gallery walls. This is the time to get on it! There are various ways to create this eye-catching display by having perfect grids, randomized orientation, and/or endless photo combinations. With limitless possibilities, we all have an extreme amount of family photos, art made from kids or art pieces we’ve been inspired by…together you can create a masterpiece.

Source: Wirecutter

Install dimmers

Light dimmers are fairly easy to install and very inexpensive. Being in quarantine at home may not always be the best, so why not add a touch of ambiance? We may be stuck at home but it doesn’t mean we need to suffer from bad lighting too!

Source: Good Housekeeping

Create springtime decor

Spring is here and although we’re going through unique circumstances it doesn’t mean we can’t bring the beauty of the great outdoors inside! Creating a beautiful centerpiece on your coffee table or dining room table by filling it with your favourite books, plants, flowers, fruit or old photos can add a nice springtime touch.