Today's good inflation news and weakening economic data suggest that the Bank of Canada will cut its overnight policy rate by another 25 bps on September 4. Additional monetary easing is also likely in October and December, continuing through much of next year, triggering a rebound in housing activity. View this email in your browser More Good News On The Cana... read more

Before frost flings its crystal cloak over your gardens, prepare your soil and perennial plants for a long winter slumber. You will be rewarded with herb, fruit and vegetable patches that burst back to life in the spring.   Promote healthy growth Start by removing any leaves that are affected by fungus or mildew. White, powdery mildew often develops on the leaves of squash plants causing them to die prematurely. Remove any affected leaves and put them in a garbage bag, rather than in your compost. This reduc... read more

Bathrooms are usually the smallest rooms in the home so owners can afford to splurge on luxurious finishes such as sleek vanities, high-end tile, sophisticated hardware, or even a fireplace. Today, there are more options to choose from than ever before and while that can be helpful, it can also be overwhelming. When looking at thousands of product samples, where do you start? And how do you create a cohesive, coordinated bathroom design?   Start with three basics:      1. Infrastructure ... read more

Imagine walking into your own outdoor kitchen complete with a built-in barbeque grill, sink, mini fridge, pizza oven, and ample counter space allowing you to cook al fresco in a refreshing breeze as you enjoy the view of your garden, keep an eye on your children, and chat with guests in an adjoining seating area. An outdoor kitchen transforms a regular backyard into a posh destination. Outdoor kitchens are on many homeowners’ wish lists even if they don’t offer an excellent return on investment. Whethe... read more

Wild invaders in our lawns, gardens and flowerbeds steal precious nutrients, water and sunlight from surrounding plants. Weeds are fast-growing and perfectly adapted to their local environment: they can often tolerate heat, a lack of water, and harsh winter weather. It can feel like a losing battle, but homeowners can turn the tide with a multi-step approach. Limited tilling When preparing your soil for spring planting, limit the tilling. Don’t turn over the entire garden or flowerbed; instead, dig a hole t... read more