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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
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    <guid>https://www.cochranerealestate.ca/blog/ready-for-smart-home-technology-heres-what-you-need-to-know1.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.cochranerealestate.ca/blog/ready-for-smart-home-technology-heres-what-you-need-to-know1.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Ready for Smart Home Technology? Here's What You Need to Know</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





When it comes to having a smart home, many homeowners are excited about the prospect. They want to do more, and they want to have more time and freedom. If they automate a lot of their house's requirements, they can spend more time enjoying everything else. That definitely makes sense, but there can be problems with smart technology. It does not always work as anticipated, and if a homeowner chooses technology that is not going to fit their lifestyle, it can end up being an expensive mistake that they will have to undo and change later on. Here's what a homeowner should know about smart home technology before getting started on it.


Cost Is Not Always the Deciding Factor


Some smart home technologies are very expensive, and others cost far less. That is true of different types of gadgets, but also true of similar products that may do the same basic thing. By keeping that in mind, a homeowner can find the right kind of technology for their specific needs and wants.


Whether they are looking for a thermostat that is intuitive based on their schedule, which can help keep down energy costs, or they need a vacuum that works on its own, there are plenty of choices to consider. Cost matters, of course, because most people have some form of budget. But how much a piece of smart technology costs should not be the only reason to purchase it. Cheaper is not always cheap, and more expensive is not always better. Choosing what meets needs is best.


Purchase What Will Actually Be Used


Buying smart home gadgets because they are &quot;cool&quot; certainly happens, but rather than do that it is often a much better choice to think carefully about purchases and select what will actually be used and needed. Being home all day might mean that a smart thermostat or something that controls the lights is not needed.


Having a cleaning service can mean there is no need to have a Roomba or other type of vacuum that works by itself. But for people who travel a lot or need to access their home remotely, being able to turn lights on and off, adjust the temperature, and use a camera to see if anything has been disturbed can make a lot of difference. Buy what is needed, and it is a much better value.


Installing Smart Technology May Require a Professional


Some smart technology is easy for a DIY person, such as choosing CFL or LED light bulbs. However, for people who want to use a lot of smart technology that will really control important systems in their home, having a professional install it for them could be the wisest choice. That will offer them not only the best chance at a proper install, but will save time and aggravation, as well.


In some cases, it is also much safer to use a professional. That is especially true where things like electrical are concerned, because making a mistake there can be dangerous or even deadly. Rather than take a risk, contact a professional to install smart technology. Then everything will work the way it should and there will be peace of mind, as well.


No matter what kind of smart technology a River Heights homeowner chooses, being ready for it and understanding what it can and cannot do can help make the experience of using it a better one.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 21 Dec 2017 09:28:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.cochranerealestate.ca/blog/3-easy-tips-to-improve-curb-appeal.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.cochranerealestate.ca/blog/3-easy-tips-to-improve-curb-appeal.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>3 Easy Tips to Improve Curb Appeal</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





A home needs to make a good first impression. The curb appeal of a home can turn a drive-by into a walk through. Homeowners do not need a hefty budget to improve their home's curb appeal. Some know-how and consistent maintenance can make the exterior of a home and surrounding property more attractive to potential buyers.


These easy tips can help any Jumping Pound Ridge homeowner instantly improve the appearance of the exterior of their home and property to prospective buyers.


Paint It


A fresh coat of paint can do much to mitigate scuff marks, dents and dings on exterior parts of the home. One area to paint to make a home stand out is those metal or vinyl gutters. Spray paint dull metal gutters to give a home a more cohesive and put together look.


This is not the only area that may benefit from fresh paint. In many cases, older entry doors can be painted rather than replaced. This helps bring fresh life to an aged entryway. Paint shutters a contrasting color to help a home pop. Anywhere there exists cracked or peeling paint can use a touch up as a potential buyer wants to see evidence of regular home maintenance. Take the time to walk around and look at the property and any areas a buyers may first see as they walk up to and around a property. Note small jobs and repairs to do prior to listing a home.


Plant It


A little greenery and seasonal flora can make a home look much more attractive. First of all, remove and dead or unhealthy looking plants. Keep bushes and hedges trimmed back. Then feel free to add a colourful flower bed surrounding the base of trees. Adding a fresh layer of red mulch can provide much needed contrast. Those with small windows are need a simpler way of adding a bit of nature can add flowers to window boxes. This option is easy to maintain and switch out as desired. Keeping plantings simple. Buy more of the same plant rather than a variety of different plants. Seasonal plants can help turn heads and add vibrancy to the exterior of a home.


Maintain It


Keep a front yard tidy. Ways to improve curb appeal start with landscaping. Begin with some basic cleanup and maintenance include trimming trees, planting edging to a garden, and addressing dead or bare areas in the yard by planting grass. When it comes to flower beds and gardens, remove weeds, prune overgrown shrubs and keep edges straight and clean. Homeowners do need to remove any noticeable toys, debris or pet projects from the sight of potential buyers. Store away and organize any tools or supplies that may be lingering on a property.


Take a Second Look


Toronto and Vancouver are highly competitive markets but now homes in the Ottawa area are attracting more interest. Homeowners in Canada need to take the time to objectively look over a home and property and get insight on quick and affordable ways to clean up and brighten up a property to attract the attention of the right buyer.


Homeowners who could use help can take a few clear pictures of their home and property and share them with friends and family who may make recommendations. Visit current comparable home in the local area to gauge expectations. Speak with an agent to get more details on what is attractive in terms of the exterior of a home to potential home buyers in Canada.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 08 Dec 2017 09:01:00 -0700</pubDate>
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